This pre-Valentine’s Day Weekend Is Heating Up!

Are You Ready to Get “50 Shades Darker?”

Let’s be honest: if you know what I’m talking about then of course you are! And since we are talking about erotic fiction that has been turned into moderately awful movies, let’s show you the trailer for this new pre-Valentine’s Day weekend film:

The worldwide phenomenon that is the “Fifty Shades” erotic book trilogy is undeniable, but did you know that history is littered with LOTS of great erotic fiction?

If you find the current “erotic fiction” craze of “Fifty Shades Of Grey” to be interesting, then you need to try this:

“She knew she had aroused the creature in the torn paint-spattered T-shirt.”

Um, WHAT?

“Naked Came The Stranger!” Erotic Fiction’s “Godfather!” And It Was FAKE!

Yes, that awful line was written for the best-seller known as “Naked Came The Stranger”, but did you know it was all a hoax?

Here is how it began: in the late 60’s – Newsday Writer Mike McGrady was convinced that popular American literary culture had become so tawdry that even a wretchedly written work could succeed if enough sex was thrown in.

To test his theory, in 1966 McGrady recruited a team of Newsday colleagues – reported later as nineteen men and five women – to collaborate on a sexually explicit novel with no literary or social value whatsoever.

That’s Right, NO Literary Or Social Value Whatsoever!

Yes, the goal from the very beginning was simple – to write the worst book ever written, fill it with sex, and see what happens!

It was, of course, a smash hit and was also turned into a dreadful film – click here to get more examples of its awful writing, and find out how it was finally uncovered as a hoax!

https://johnrieber.com/2013/01/08/before-50-shades-there-was-naked-came-the-stranger-publishings-biggest-hoax-undressed/

Soon after the “Stranger” debacle, another torrid piece of erotic fiction was published, but this was no hoax!

Iconic Writer Jacqueline Susann is perhaps best known for her scathing indictment of Hollywood – “Valley Of The Dolls”, which is a great pulp fiction read – but her followup, the erotic novel “The Love Machine” is hilariously entertaining…

Of course, it was ALSO turned into a horrible film – notice a trend?

Still, these campy, pulpy sex novels were hugely popular in the 70’s…see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/02/07/fifty-shades-of-grey-controversy-the-love-machine-naked-strangers-erotic-books-to-controversial-movies/

Sasha Grey’s Erotic Fiction!

Aside from the “50 Shades” trilogy, there is more erotic fiction out there as well:

My friend Sasha Grey just published her latest erotic thriller, read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/10/sasha-greys-new-novel-the-janus-chamber-sashas-la-book-signing-sashas-erotic-new-novel-keeps-juliette-society-fantasy-alive/

And if your tastes go a bit darker, with an S&M slant ala “Fifty Shades”, then check out this cult film starring Christoper Lee, who had no idea he was in it!

Click here to read the story of how Lee ended up in this S&M film without even knowing it!

https://johnrieber.com/2016/01/22/perversion-s-m-legendary-actor-christopher-lee-eugenie-shocks-a-movie-legend/

Let me know what you think of the erotic fiction genre!

Behold A Katz Classic!

Take some time to feast your eyes on a legendary sandwich: the Pastrami on Rye from Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City!

Although I’ve been to New York dozens of times, I had NEVER been to Katz’s – a legendary deli located on New York’s lower east side…

This place has quite a history – this is from their website:

“In 1888, a small deli by the name of Iceland Brothers was established on Ludlow Street in New York’s Lower East Side by the Iceland brothers. Upon the arrival of Willy Katz in 1903, the name of the store was officially changed to “Iceland & Katz”. Willy’s cousin Benny joined him in 1910, buying out the Iceland brothers to officially form Katz’s Delicatessen. Their landsman Harry Tarowsky bought into the partnership in April 1917. Katz’s Deli was moved across the street, to its present location, during the construction of the subway system. The vacant lot on Houston Street (pronounced “House-ton” after a Dutch emigrant of the same name) was home to barrels of meat and pickles until the present storefront facade was added between 1946-49.”

My wife Alex told me it was time to make up for my failure to eat there, so while she was at a baby shower, I walked down second avenue to Houston and made my first visit.

I arrived on a Saturday night, just after dark – as I expected, the place was pretty jammed, but I was able to walk right in – and I immediately was overwhelmed with the “process” for ordering my food:

First, you are handed a ticket and warned NOT to lose it or you can’t get out! Then, you are left to gaze, which I did until I realized I needed to step up to a “Cutter”, who would take care of my order…

I got the Pastrami on Rye and a Katz’s beer – he took my ticket and added up what I owed, wrote it down and handed it back to me.

I stood here for a minute before realizing that this was to grab salamis to go – then I sat down at a free table – while it was very crowded, I found a place easily…

I sat down and took a moment to size this sandwich up: yes, there were mounds mounds of fresh hot pastrami, and the bread was firm but soft as well…and the meat:

It was mouthwatering, succulent, juicy and full of flavor…becasue I didn’t order any side dishes, or anything else on the sandwich, I could just enjoy the flavor of the meat – which was incredible:

I was given a small plate with two different kinds of pickle wedges, and they offered a crisp counter balance to the rich meaty pastrami…

In hindsight, I should have ordered some potato salad or cole slaw, which are also a great way to test the authenticity of a deli – but I was flying out the next morning and concerned it would needlessly go to waste…I won’t make that mistake again!

As with all legendary establishments, Katz’s walls are full of pictures – celebrities, foodies, politicians – as well as articles on the place that have been published over the years…you could spend hours just reading the walls!

Katz’s has been around for more than a century, but filmgoers in the 80’s learned to love the place for a whole new reason:

“When Harry Met Sally” At Katz’s!

Director Rob Reiner filmed an iconic movie scene in the restaurant…when Billy Crystal tells Meg Ryan that women always have an orgasm with him – and never fake it…Meg then steals the scene:

Here is that legendary scene from the GREAT film:

Of course, the woman with the punch line at the end of the scene was Rob Reiner’s Mom! A classic movie moment from a classic restaurant!

By the way, if you LOVE “food in movies” like I do, then you will want to make this as well:

Clemenza’s famous meatballs from “The Godfather” – there is a recipe to make what Michael Corleone had for dinner! See it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/17/the-godfather-clemenzas-meatballs-goodfellas-garlic-great-mobster-dinners-and-a-movie/

I have made them and they are great!

Now, if you need some of this incredible Katz’s deli food, you can actually order it to be shipped to you! Check out the menu, plus lots of great trivia and photos, and their whole menu, at their website:

http://www.katzsdelicatessen.com

Bravo to Katz’s Delicatessen, may you last a hundred years more!

Now, if you need to make a recipe from an animated film, may I suggest this:

The incredible recipe for this animated film can be found here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/06/29/ratatouille-chef-thomas-kellers-recipe-for-animated-food-magic/

If you like all kinds of food – whether it has starred in a movie or not, then you need to head to Chicago for THIS:

Yes, it’s the world’s best fried bologna sandwich, and they sell it at Au Cheval – see more of their incredible food here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/11/06/fried-bologna-the-brilliant-cooking-at-chicagos-au-cheval-general-janes-chicken/

Time to get my food on!

I Love The 80’s!

How can you not? There are so many things that make the 80’s special: Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”, the best George Michael music, goofy sitcoms and of course “Back To The Future”…

“Stranger Things” Revisits The 80’s!

There is a lot of nostalgia for the 80’s right now, especially due to the phenomenal success of “Stranger Things” on Netflix, which captured perfectly the vibe of the decade, a “Stand By Me meets Stephen King” show that everyone loves…

Season two was just announced, and here is the trailer for the second season – which I cannot wait to see:

OK, that is certainly a trailer that gives NOTHING AWAY, but still, I cannot wait!

To celebrate this retro gem, I wanted to look at some of the best music and movies from that decade…beginning with one of the best comedies ever made:

Time To Enroll In “Ridgemont High!”

It’s a classic 80’s comedy – with all of the hair styles, slang phrases and attitude that you equate to this memorable decade.

One of the most iconic moments of the decade happened when Phoebe Cates stepped out of a pool in “Fast Times At Ridgemont High” – well, at least in Judge Reinhold’s fantasy:

Check out the hilarious trailer:

“Fast Times” is one of the best movies about growing up in suburban America – check out more here, including some hilarious trivia about THIS GUY:

This movie is full of honest moments about growing up in the 80’s…and of course, the greatest character of all, thanks to Sean Penn!

Enjoy more Spicoli here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/12/01/living-in-fast-times-growing-up-as-a-horny-stoned-teenager-at-the-real-ridgemont-high/

There were many great cult movies in the 80’s, including this little-known comedy from Kurt Russell:

Check out the trailer for this comedy shown as a “used cars” ad:

“Used Cars” is a raucous comedy about disreputable salesmen – it bombed upon release, but is now seen as a classic 80’s comedy – two more bombs from the 80’s also have aged well:

these are three terrific movies that have been neglected – but thanks to blu-ray, area ll ready to be re-discovered…

See my story about “Used Cars”, “The King Of Comedy” and the brilliant “Withnail & I” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/06/20/cult-movie-weekend-neglected-80s-comedies-withnail-pupkin-kurt-russell/

Along with great movies, the 80’s gave us great music – and one very iconic Musician:

Billy Idol’s Rebel yell!

Talk about an 80’s classic! Billy Idol has the brains and the bravura – and he ruled the decade!

Here is the music video for his iconic hit “Rebel Yell”:

Billy Idol had a string of hits throughout the 80’s, and has remained a compelling figure, releasing a candid autobiography about his life and music:

This great Singer/Writer was also a great Actor – with his “spot on” camera from “The Wedding Singer!”

All of this makes you want to know more, doesn’t it? Well, there is lots of Billy Idol trivia here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/02/02/billy-idols-rebel-yell-adam-sandlers-wedding-singer-cameo-why-billy-idol-matters/

As much of a “Survivor” as Billy is, some music Artists aren’t meant to endure – as Neil Young wrote:

“It’s better to burn out than to fade away…”

As you can see, that hair sure did! Yes, this was a hairstyle in the 80’s, thanks to a band that had a unique sound as well as look. While “A Flock Of Seagulls” didn’t persevere, this guy did:

Yes, Adam Ant Lives!

It all began in the 80’s with these lyrics!

“Unlock the jukebox and do us all a favor
That music’s lost its taste so try another flavor…Ant Music!”

Check out the music video – and I dare you NOT to click your fingers to it:

Adam And The Ants didn’t last long as a group, but boy, did they ever capture the sound of the decade…

Adam Ant still performs, and his music is pure 80’s magic – see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/01/20/classic-80s-brit-pop-animal-style-flock-of-seagulls-adam-ant-bow-wow-wow/

And finally, there is a GREAT film that actually captured the raucous energy of punk rock going into the 80’s:

“Rude Boy” was a fictional movie about a roadie for The Clash – and they filmed great scenes of the band performing live – and just threw their fictional “roadie” on stage with them!

Read more about this terrific musical film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/09/the-clash-is-live-rude-boy-iconic-punk-music-meets-classic-cult-movie/

There you have it, a quick skim across the pop culture greatness of the 80’s…share your favorites!

Band: A Flock of Seagulls (Mike Score in the centre).
Bad eighties hair hairstyle

Happy 30th Birthday, Withnail!

It’s the 30th anniversary today of one of the best films ever – the classic cult 1987 comedy “Withnail & I”. Need to remember just how great it is? Let’s begin with the trailer:

Withnail: “I think we’ve been in here too long. I feel unusual.”

Looking for the greatest English comedy of all time? And a “tell all” book by the film’s star? Well, you’ve come to the right place! It makes me think:

“We want the finest wines available to humanity. And we want them here, and we want them now!”

Yes, time to get the film fan in your family a combo pack of Richard E. Grant! This terrific British Actor was not only in one of the funniest films ever – “Withnail & I” – but he was just in “Logan” and also wrote a hilarious insider’s look at the crazy world of Hollywood – “With Nails!”

Let’s begin with one of the best British films of all time – a bold statement, but it is, to me, one of the most perfectly realized comedies ever, and it has just turned 30 years old:

Withnail & I

Here’s the plot: we begin in London 1969 – two unemployed actors, Withnail and Marwood, are freezing in their unheated flat – and they are flat broke. They need a plan, and fast. Here is their discussion about calling to ask someone for money…

Marwood: What about whatshisname?
Withnail: What about him?
Marwood: Why don’t you give him a call?
Withnail: What for?
Marwood: Ask him about his house.
Withnail: You want me to call whatshisname and ask him about his house?
Marwood: Why not?
Withnail: All right. What’s his number?
Marwood: I’ve no idea. I’ve never met him.
Withnail: Well neither have I. What the fuck are you talking about?

And Don’t Forget “Danny!”

One of the funniest supporting characters in the film is “Drug Dealer Danny”, he of the super-sized spiffs and lazy drawl – who just can’t get along with Withnail…oh, and he is CRAZY…

Danny: I don’t advise a haircut, man. All hairdressers are in the employment of the government. Hairs are your aerials. They pick up signals from the cosmos, and transmit them directly into the brain. This is the reason bald-headed men are uptight.

Withnail: What absolute twaddle.

The movie is filled with great scenes – as I said at the beginning, the roommates are freezing in their ice-cold flat…with only one thing to warm them…

Withnail: I must have some booze. I demand to have some booze!

The scene where Withnail guzzles lighter fluid to stay warm is a highlight….Withnail has also greased his body up with muscle relaxant to get warm…

Withnail: [after having entirely covered himself in muscle embrocation] Have you been at the controls?
Marwood: What are you talking about?
Withnail: The thermostats. What have you done to them?
Marwood: I haven’t touched them.
Withnail: Then why has my head gone numb?

After a near brawl in a bar, they realize they need to get out of town…

They decide on a holiday in the countryside, courtesy of Withnail’s uncle Monty’s country cottage. But when they get there, it rains non-stop, there’s no food, and their basic survival skills turn out to be somewhat limited.

Matters are not helped by the arrival of Uncle Monty, who shows an uncomfortably keen interest in Marwood…

Uncle Monty: “I adore you. Tell him if you must, I no longer care. I mean to have you even if it must be burglary!”

Sadly, Richard Griffiths just died of complication following heart surgery. He was 65, and although most will remember him for his roles in the “Harry Potter” films, it was his Uncle Monty that I will always remember him for…

There is a book that celebrates this film – filled with:

“Everything You Ever Wanted To Know But Were Too Drunk To Ask”

Here’s one for you: the inspiration behind the name Withnail came from an old friend of the Director’s father, who had the same name and was an alcoholic! When Director Bruce Robinson was eight, he was in the car with him, and as the book states:

“Along the way, Withnail stopped, opened the door of his car and vomited profusely before casually driving off again!”

So there you go!

This movie is hilarious, and a perfect snapshot of life at the end of the 60’s – when hip, mod London turned into the cold, harsh reality of life as a struggling Actor.

This is a tour de force performance by Richard Grant, who exudes manic, crazy charm at every turn, such as when he storms into a fancy restaurant and demands, well…

Withnail: “We want the finest wines available to humanity. And we want them here, and we want them now!”

Richard E. Grant proved to be a hilarious and honest writer as well!

With Nails – The Film Diaries Of Richard E. Grant

If you want to read all about the craziness that goes on when you make a movie – the egos, the out of control Stars, the drugs, booze and everythign else – then this candid and hilarious book is for you!

Here is the original review from BOOKLIST:

Film fans alert to the immense charm of the under-known British film Withnail & I will certainly enjoy the droll autobiography of the actor who played Withnail. Of the film’s script, Grant says “never before or since have I read something that conveys what goes on in my head so accurately.”

The image of the brusque, hilariously overbearing Withnail fits Grant, who has also appeared in “Bram Stoker’s Dracula”, “The Age of Innocence”, and the Robert Altman films “The Player” and “Pret-a-Porter”.

He writes of his passage through the world of the aspiring film stardom wonderfully well, producing a book far superior to the usual movie life story. “Oh up and down and forklifts, this is a dull madness,” he says of the process of landing a role, but his book wittily presenting the madness is never dull.

Let me tell you, his stories about Bruce Willis and the making of “Hudson Hawk” are hilarious – it is “no holds barred” storytelling about the crazy world of movies…check both of these out now, and remember:

“We want the finest wines available to humanity. And we want them here, and we want them now!”

Happy 30th anniversary to a great great film!

Talk About A Shocking Movie Debut!

Here is one of the most disturbing movie debuts ever: the shocking exploitation revenge classic “Ms. 45!”

“Ms. 45”, also known as “Angel of Vengeance”, is the 1981 cult classic directed by Abel Ferrara and starring Zoë Tamerlis Lund.

This film was Lund’s movie debut – an amazing performance from an Actress who died much too soon…here is the story:

Zoe Lund is mesmerizing as a young woman who decides to fight back against her attackers, in a style and tone that echoes some of the roughest 70’s revenge films made.

Here is how wikipedia describes the film:

Inspired by films such as 1973’s “Thriller – A Cruel Picture” and 1974’s “Death Wish”, the film is a rape and revenge story about Thana, a mute woman who becomes a misandristic spree killer after she is raped twice in one day when going home from work. It was critically maligned on its theatrical release, but is now generally highly regarded among fans of underground and independent film.

Here is the trailer for this powerful exploitation film:

“Ms. 45” was Lund’s acting debut. Amazingly, Zoë was only 17 years old when she starred in the film, and a creative turn away from something she had been involved in all her life: music.

At a young age, she was an accomplished composer/musician – but was always intrigued by film. As she said:

“I could write a concerto with 17 violins that could be very powerful, but film works on a more visceral level where I can go into the collective audience and make sure my point gets across.”

This is a powerful, raw and gut-wrenching film – directed by Abel Ferrara, who went on to make such provocative films as “Bad Lieutenant” with Harvey Keitel – with tremendous creative input from Lund! More on that in a moment…

“Ms. 45” is a tour de force for Zoe Lund, and she said at the time that she was fully involved in the character’s development:

“In the beginning stages of the film, the only material that existed was vague descriptions of several scenes. Being that my face is on camera, without dialogue, for something like 98% of the time, I was involved very much. As to the film being pro-woman, I go beyond that by saying that the film is as much pro-woman as it is pro-garment worker, whatever.”

Zoe’s “Bad” Behavior!

As I mentioned before, Director Ferrara later made “Bad Lieutenant”, and Zoë Lund collaborated with him on creating that character, one of cinema’s most unforgettable cops – living life on the edge.

Here is the trailer for this film:

In “Bad Lieutenant”, Lund has a small role, and showcases the rawness of her personal life – she was a heroin addict and was open and honest about that fact.

Here is a great interview clip from “Mediafunhouse” on Youtube where Lund discusses the scene in the movie where she shoots up onscreen:

Zoe Lund’s Tragic Heroin Downfall!

Yes, Lund shot up in the film, and was a regular heroin user in real life.

Here is the tragic True Hollywood Story. As wikipedia reports:

“Lund was unapologetic about her heroin addiction. She wrote at length about heroin and advocated it for legal recreational use in the USA, as well as romanticized its effects. “She loved heroin, she was killed by heroin,” Ferrara said on her heroin addiction. “…Zoe was one of these people who thought heroin was the greatest thing in the world, and she did until the day she died. She was down on coke, down on everything, but you know, heroin was the elixir of life for her.”

Yes, Lund was a heroin addict, and it ultimately killed her. She was 37 years old when she died. It’s a sad Hollywood story – but if you want to celebrate her life and career, go to a website in her name to see all that she created in her short life:

http://www.zoelund.com

“Ms. 45” has a lot in common with the sexploitation classic “Thriller: A Cruel Picture” starring Christina Lindberg – a woman who is assaulted decides to fight back…

Christina Lindberg is the “Queen Of Artsploitation” – artistic films that still showcased sex, nudity and violence. Quentin Tarantino is a huge fan and based a character in “Kill Bill Vol. 1” on Lindberg’s character in “Thriller.”

Read more about this iconic “women’s revenge” picture here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/08/11/christina-lindberg-speaks-the-queen-of-artsploitation-bares-all/

Unfortunately, Hollywood history is littered with stories of great young Actresses who succumb to the “fast lane”:

Cheryl “Rainbeaux” Smith was in a number of great films in the 70’s and early 80’s before the Hollywood lifestyle got the best of her – read her story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/09/20/hollywood-tragedy-70s-starlet-cheryl-rainbeaux-smith-the-runaways-caged-heat/

Let me know if you’ve seen “Ms. 45!”

Talk about a wall of ice! A small town in Newfoundland reports that an iceberg has washed ashore and has become a huge tourist attraction!

Here is the story from The Guardian:

A towering iceberg is causing traffic jams in a remote town on Canada’s east coast, as tourists jostle for a glimpse of the mass of ice sitting in shallow water just off Newfoundland.

The iceberg, which has dwarfed the nearby small town of Ferryland, is estimated to measure some 46 metres (150ft) at its highest point. “It’s the biggest one I ever seen around here,” mayor Adrian Kavanagh told the Canadian Press. “It’s a huge iceberg and it’s in so close that people can get a good photograph of it.”

There are concerns about why this huge iceberg is floating in the ocean, but it is also an amazing sight!

See their entire report here:

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/apr/19/ferryland-iceberg-newfoundland-canada#comment-96896117

This is just the latest “iceberg news” – remember the story in January from Antarctica?

This is a crack on the surface of the continent – and there are concerns that it will create an iceberg the size of Delaware!

This has potentially serious implications – read the whole story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/11/a-huge-antarctic-ice-crack-an-iceberg-the-size-of-delaware-amazing-places-going-underwater/

Let me know if you are headed to Newfoundland to see this iceberg!

All Hail The King!

Yes, the “King” of winged serpents, killer babies AND blaxploitation! Yes, one Director has delivered a number of exploitation classics for cult movie buffs, and now there’s a documentary that celebrates this wild wild career!

Larry Cohen is a legendary B-movie Producer, Director, and Screenwriter – who had some of the best cult movies of the 70’s and 80’s…shown here with some of his favorite “stars”….we’ll talk about a few in a moment, but first, check out this wild trailer!

Well, I can’t wait to see this!

Cohen’s first big hit was the classic low-budget horror film “It’s Alive”, about a mutant monster baby that embarks on a killing spree. It has one of the best tag lines for any movie – check out the poster:

“There’s Only ONE Thing Wrong With The David Baby…It’s ALIVE!”

I mean, c’mon, this is one of the greatest tagline ever! And the film delivers as well – a low-budget shocker with a great hook!

He followed this hit up with a sequel, as well as making great blaxploitation films like “Hell Up In Harlem”:

Cohen was known to break a lot of rules when making his movies, and the documentary gets into some of those wacky stories of truly independent filmmaking.

This is the poster for his science fiction classic “Q The Winged Serpent.” It’s a terrific monster movie – a “winged serpent” terrorizes a very 70’s New York City….check out the trailer:

Cohen was a “down and dirty” filmmaker – no muss, no fuss, he just made his wildly entertaining films in a straightforward manner.

Here are a few more movies he directed in the 70’s and 80’s…

Cohen finished the 1980’s with “Wicked Stepmother” – which was the legendary Bette Davis’s last role…he has many more credits in his career, including screenwriting the Joel Schumacher thriller “Phone Booth” from 2002.

I look forward to seeing more of his films, to fully appreciate this renegade filmmaker…and speaking of legendary exploitation Directors, one of the first was Director Jack Hill, who made this cult classic:

Hill went on to work with Pam Grier among many others – you can see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/03/18/cult-actress-jill-banner-from-spider-baby-web-to-marlon-brandos-arm-a-true-hollywood-tragedy/

Some cult Directors just make one classic film and then disappear…

Tommy Wiseau became a legend after just one film, the cult classic “The Room.” Now, it MAY be due to the fact it is considered the worst film ever made – but who’s to judge?

See the trailer for “The Room” here and judge for yourself!

https://johnrieber.com/2013/10/27/tommy-wiseaus-classic-the-room-now-a-book-tommys-secrets-revealed/

Let me know how many Larry Cohen films you’ve seen!

My Movie Alphabet!

Yes, the poster art says “Vol. 2” – because I missed the first “go-round” on this fun exercise in cinema! A movie for every letter of the alphabet – who can refuse?

For many of us, this is our great escape – a movie auditorium where magic happens – I have seen so many incredible films in my life…oh, outside too!

I love this idea – thanks to “MettelRaySe7en” for doing this, here is the link to see how you can participate:

https://mettelray.wordpress.com/2017/05/01/mettelrayse7en-my-movie-alphabet-vol-2-blogathon-announcment/#comment-10520

Let’s get started with a film that, while fictional, captured one of the most exciting and influential pop culture changes in our nation’s history!

A – A Hard Day’s Night

Hard to imagine how culturally significant “Beatlemania” was in today’s social media world, but this film captures the pop culture impact of The Fab Four through a hilariously droll, fictional film the band starred in – how did they know to make this film so it would come out as they were taking over the world – what an achievement! If you want to see just how wild their first trip to the US was, check out the terrific documentary here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/06/the-beatles-first-us-tour-new-movie-the-fab-fours-segregation-battle-ron-howards-fascinating-new-beatles-documentary/

Next up is one of my top ten films of all time:

B – Boogie Nights

Paul Thomas Anderson shows the birth of adult cinema in LA’s San Fernando valley through the fictional story of Dirk Diggler…one of the greatest cinematic achievements ever, and career bests for the entire cast – see the “oral” history here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/12/11/dirk-digglers-livin-thing-70s-sex-80s-excess-the-oral-history-of-boogie-nights/

Here is another film from my “top ten of all time”:

C – Chinatown

This lost Best Picture in 1972 to the greatest film of all time – more on that in a minute, but Roman Polanski’s story of Los Angeles in the 40’s, as seen through our thirst for water – and power – still resonates today – read more about this classic film noir here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/02/19/forget-it-jake-its-chinatown-cynical-attitudes-and-sexual-motivations/

Ok, these were all fairly well known, let’s get obscure:

D – Darker Than Amber

This very obscure action film from 1970 has one of the most brutal – and REAL – onscreen fights ever captured – yes, the two main actors got carried away and the Director captured it all – see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/01/darker-than-amber-film-noirs-legendary-fight-scene-a-brutal-hidden-gem/

Next up is one of the most hypnotic films I’ve ever seen…

E – Enter The Void

Argentinian Director Gasper Noe uses “2001: A Space Odyssey” as his inspiration to tell the story of a young man killed in Tokyo, who floats over the city to observe life after his death – see the hypnotic trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/01/audacious-mind-blowing-cinema-enter-the-void-vanishing-waves-and-holy-motors/

Need some 70’s horror? Great, let’s head to France!

F – Fascination!

French Horror Director Jean Rollin made moody, cerebral horror films filled with nudity, blood and amazing images like this one:

See all of his incredible work from the 70’s here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/09/13/bloody-fascination-sexy-shockers-wildest-cult-horror-directors/

Now, time to celebrate the greatest film ever made:

G – The Godfather

For me, it is simply the greatest cinematic achievement in film history – beautifully acted, lyrical, violent and multi-layered to reveal something new each time I see it – and of course, Brando read from cue cards held by Robert Duvall!

One last bit of trivia – the horse’s head was real! Here is more on that:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/02/15/brandos-cue-cards-real-horse-heads-the-godfathers-best-stories-2/

Now, a film that was so good it had three different names!

H – Hookers Revenge!

I HAD to get a Christina Lindberg film on this list! She is the “Queen of Artsploitation”, and this one was so good they kept releasing it to grindhouse theaters with different titles! Officially known as “Thriller: A Cruel Picture” – it’s also AKA “They Call Her One Eye” and also AKA “Hooker’s Revenge” – even thought she doesn’t play a hooker in the movie!

She may have been mute in the film, but she really kicks some ass, and recently Christina spoke about her career – see that interview here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/08/11/christina-lindberg-speaks-the-queen-of-artsploitation-bares-all/

Christina Lindberg is my “grindhouse guilty pleasure”, but the next film is serious, compelling and vital:

I – The Island President

This documentary tells the story of one person trying to save his country from drowning – and the politics of climate change…so powerful and important, see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/05/07/the-island-president-a-tragic-compelling-documentary-a-nation-underwater/

The next film on my list is one of those “movie theater experiences” I will never forget…

J – Jackie Brown

Some Quentin Tarantino was overdue, but more importantly, some Pam Grier! He wrote it with her in mind, and she stars with a timeless swagger…just one of her great films, like “Black Mama White Mama” and the blaxploitation classic “Foxy Brown”…see her here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/03/21/black-mama-white-mama-queen-of-blaxploitation-pam-grier-naked-showers-women-in-prison-classics/

I was inspired by my friend Pete from Beetley, England…he is counting down his movies as well – you can follow along with them here:

https://beetleypete.wordpress.com/2017/05/10/a-z-film-challenge-day-ten/

Next up, a cerebral thriller with a very young Donald Sutherland…

K – Klute

A somewhat forgotten film from 1971, Jane Fonda won an Oscar for her portrayal of a lonely prostitute who is being watched by one of her clients…a young Donald Sutherland is also great…see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/01/klute-the-late-show-electra-glide-in-blue-three-obscure-film-noir-70s-classics/

Now, one of my top 5 favorite movies…

L – The Last Of Sheila

This terrific mystery puzzle of a film was written by Stephen Sondheim and “Psycho” Anthony Perkins! An all-star cast including James Mason James Coburn, Raquel Welch, Richard Benjamin and Ryan Cannon make this a must see – here is the trailer:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/29/psycho-and-sondheim-the-last-of-sheila-classic-hollywood-murder-mystery-richard-benjamin-rules/

Time for one of America’s greatest Actors to lighten up…

M – Midnight Run

“Why are you unpopular with the Chicago Police Department?” The greatest buddy/action film of all, the first time we discovered that Robert DeNiro could do comedy! See the new blu-ray here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/28/fistophobia-the-brilliant-but-neglected-buddy-action-comedy-midnight-run/

Next up, a European Actress from the 70’s who was naked in every single film she made!

N – Night Of A Thousand Desires!

I love Lina Romay – her haunting beauty and willingness to put it ALL out there – I mean, she is naked in every single film she made, and most of it was lovingly captured by her partner/husband Jess Franco – this is a great example of her hypnotic appeal, with a great blu-ray thanks to Mondo Macabro – see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/05/06/night-has-a-thousand-desires-lina-romays-cult-classic-jess-francos-sex-shocker/

Next up, my second favorite film of all time…

O – O Lucky Man!

This obscure British masterpiece was written by and starring Malcolm McDowell – right after “A Clockwork Orange” – it is a brilliant satire of a world gone mad with an equally brilliant soundtrack – see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/22/o-lucky-man-malcolm-mcdowells-seinfeld-connection/

Time for more 70’s stuff, this time a grindhouse classic:

P – Prime Cut

The “grindhouse” era of the 60’s and 70’s allowed studios to make gritty B-movies like this one, with lots of sex, nudity and violence, and many big stars willing jumped in! “Prime Cut” stars Gene Hackman, Lee Marvin and a VERY naked Sissy Spacek in her movie debut – see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/23/prime-cut-grindhouse-classic-gene-hackman-vs-lee-marvin/

Need more obscure classics?

Q – Q! The Winged Serpent

Legendary Exploitation Director Larry Cohen made this film about a “winged serpent” terrorizing New York – one of many great movies he made…here is a documentary about his life – and his wild wild work!

https://johnrieber.com/2017/05/08/king-cohen-exploitation-director-larry-cohen-killer-babies-winged-serpents-exploitation-master-dynamite-new-documentary/

I think a musical is in order….

R – Rude Boy

I grew up loving The Clash – but did you know they made a film? “Rude Boy” is the story of a roadie who dreams of success while following The Clash on their REAL tour of the UK at the end of the 70’s – and the birth of punk rock! This is terrific stuff – see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/09/the-clash-is-live-rude-boy-iconic-punk-music-meets-classic-cult-movie/

Another from my top twenty is next:

S – The Shawshank Redemption

One of the most inspiring movies ever made – brilliant from start to finish – Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman was flawless – click here to see the real “Zihuatanejo”:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/05/18/zihuatanejo-the-inspiring-greatness-of-the-shawshank-redemption/

Here is #3 on my list of greatest films:

T – Taxi Driver

Martin Scorsese and Paul Schrader capture the gritty streets of New York perfectly – as seen through the eyes of Travis Bickle – this masterpiece is still topical forty years on – see the anniversary reunion here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/04/21/travis-bickle-turns-40-taxi-driver-tribeca-screening-3-reasons-to-love-him-one-big-reason-to-hate/

OK, from masterpiece to Russ Meyer!

U – Up!

Need a break from the seriousness of the list – well, how about some Russ Meyer? The man who gave us “Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” also got us “Up!” See how here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/16/sexploitation-classics-the-russ-meyer-edition/

Need more grindhouse?

V – The Virgin Witch

I love the sexploitation era of the 60’s and 70’s as you can see, and films like “The Virgin Witch” are the reason why…virgin witches baring all for our pleasure – see how here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/17/bloody-witchcraft-horror-sexy-virgin-witches-halloween-2015-heats-up/

Another from my top twenty is next:

W – Withnail & I

Simply the greatest British comedy ever – Richard E. Grant is brilliant, and the film is acerbic, insightful, and hilariously funny – read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/04/10/withnail-i-30th-anniversary-classic-80s-cult-comedy-richard-e-grant-tell-all-book-with-nails/

Some letters of the alphabet are better sung than spoken…

X – Xanadu

What, you don’t want an 80’s musical with a rollerskating Olivia Newton-John? I included “Xanadu” because it’s so “of its time”, and because it also has a terrific soundtrack from The Electric Light Orchestra! Here’s proof:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/02/25/elo-rocks-the-grammy-awards-brilliant-70s-orchestra-rock-jeff-lynnes-beatles-love/

Mel Brooks was a brilliant filmmaker, and here is one example:

Y – Young Frankenstein

The funniest film ever? Well, argue amongst yourselves, but Brooks competes with himself for that title (“Blazing Saddles!”), and this film gives Gene Hackman – yes, GENE HACKMAN! A chance to show how funny he is! To celebrate this legendary Actors birthday, I highlighted his ten best roles:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/30/happy-birthday-gene-hackman-ten-roles-that-defined-a-hollywood-legend/

Finally, I leave you with Bond, James Bond…well, this next film is a 007 you’ve never seen before!

Z – Zardoz!

Yes, that’s 007 in a bright red loincloth! But WHY? The answer lies in one of the wackiest films ever committed to celluloid – the lunacy of “Zardoz.” Click to see some of the hilariously “WTF” dialogue and trailer!

https://johnrieber.com/2012/10/01/suspiria-caligula-zardoz-wacky-one-word-movie-wonders/

Well, I tried to showcase movies you knew and many you didn’t, so let me know what you think!

“Alien: Covenant” Is Here!

The latest in the series of outer space shockers is hitting theaters – if you haven’t seen the latest trailer, feast your eyes on it now:

I can’t wait to see the new film, which clearly wants to ensure us that lots of monster stuff is on the way…so let’s take a quick trip down memory lane…

Meet The Crew Of The “Nostromo!”

Here they are: crew members on a transport freighter who are asked to make a detour in outer space.

In 1979, Director Ridley Scott shocked moviegoers with a futuristic sci-fi horror film that used that simple premise – and the film became an instant classic.

With the latest installment on the way, here are five reasons I love the original “Alien”.

5- The Who!

Yes, the seminal rock band had a role in creating the moody atmosphere of the film.

The blue laser lights that were used in the alien ship’s egg chamber were borrowed from the band, who were testing out the lasers for their stage show in the soundstage next door.

4 – The Face Hugger!

The first look at the “alien” takes place when unfortunate Astronaut Kane and the others visit The Who’s moody egg chamber – when he leans over an alien “egg” he gets a big surprise: the face hugger!

Here is why this baby alien looked so creepy. The dead face hugger that is autopsied after being pried off Kane’s face was made using fresh shellfish, four oysters and a sheep kidney to recreate the internal organs. Yum!

This all leads to the next reason I love this film:

3 – The Bursting Chest!

Yes, after Kane has the face hugger pried off, he is seemingly OK again. Well, at least until he attempts to eat a meal, and the crew discover that the alien was inside him!

Here’s a fun fact: the chest bursting scene was filmed in one take with four cameras.

This scene was voted the second most shocking moment in movie history, right before “The Exorcist”…and even before moviegoers made it to the theater, there was a palpable sense of dread, thanks to the next reason this film is a classic:

2 – The Poster!

As you can see from the one sheet, the poster offers haunting imagery with one of the greatest tag lines ever:

“In space no one can hear you scream.”

The egg with the green sizzling crack is such an unsettling image, it really sets the viewer up for the great horror film that awaits.

It’s one of the most iconic movie posters ever – here are some more:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/16/red-lips-alien-eggs-all-white-juries-and-deep-throat-too-iconic-movie-posters/

Finally, there is one scene in “Alien” that all fanboys remember:

1- Sigourney Weaver In Her Underwear!

Yes, she looks great, but this scene is so great because it occurs after she thinks she has killed the alien creature, only to discover after waking up that she isn’t alone on the freighter. This raw vulnerability sets up another great action sequence, and cements Weaver as a classic Action Hero!

I can’t wait for the new “Alien” installment, but let’s remember the simple majesty of the first one – check out this classic trailer:

What a classic! In fact, I’m going to celebrate with THIS CAKE!

Meet The “Blue Face” Of Horror!

With the chaotic 2017 Oscar telecast naming the wrong film for Best Picture, it’s time to look at other films that were “overlooked” for the Academy’s top honor…in fact, here are three classic films that never got the recognition they deserved:

“In Cranium-Cleaving Color!”

Take a moment to look closely at all three of these posters, including the “cranium” line at the bottom of “The Ghastly Ones”…how could you ever miss such classic horror cinema?

Now, if you turned the Oscars upside down and shook REALLY HARD, you would come up with the Director of these three films – arguably the worst movies ever committed to celluloid – time to meet Andy Milligan!

Grindhouse Lives!

Meet Andy Milligan, who may just be Staten Island’s greatest filmmaker!

Yes: STATEN ISLAND’S GREATEST FILMMAKER!

Here are some exampleS of his “masterpieces”, beginning with an early work of art:

I mean, the title alone NEEDS to be shouted out from the Oscar podium – but as you can imagine, the creative visionary behind this gem had many more classics to come:

All of these movies are the work of Andy Milligan, a quirky filmmaker who wanted to shock America.

These are films that you can savor over and over again, especially when they include dialogue like THIS:

Dusty Cole: How’s your mother?
Cherry Lane: She threw me out. I guess she got tired of me using all her hairspray.

Shooting on budgets that hovered around $10,000, Milligan turned out 29 movies between 1965 and 1988 – moves that were:

“In Dripping Blood Color!”

While the posters were classic grindhouse “come ons”, his movies were appallingly shot, often ludicrously plotted “shock” films – but that’s what played in 42nd Street grind houses, drive-ins and avant-garde film festivals in the late 60’s and 70’s…

Milligan churned out film after film, with some of exploitation’s greatest movie titles!

Torture Dungeon! (1969)
Bloodthirsty Butchers! (1970)
The Body Beneath! (1970)
Guru, the Mad Monk! (1970)
The Rats Are Coming! The Werewolves Are Here! (1972)

“EXPLICIT BEYOND BELIEF!”

And they weren’t just horror films – no, Milligan knew how to sex it up as well!

Fleshpot On 42nd St. “Erotic, Sensual and Smoldering!”

That’s right, they weren’t all horror films, Milligan also loved deviant sex – and blew the lid of 42nd Street’s sleazy sex trade!

The plot of this classic was simple: A street whore desperately seeks love and acceptance against the backdrop of the criminal element of early 1970s Times Square.

Here is a seven minute scene shot on location – you get a real clear idea of Milligan’s filming “style”:

The film featured classic Milligan dialogue like this:

Cherry Lane: Didn’t your mother ever tell you that you shouldn’t go out with strange men?
Dusty Cole: Bob’s not strange. He’s dull.

Wel, enough said! Let’s get back to what Milligan REALLY liked – movies that he filmed:

“In Cranium-Cleaving Color!”

How can you resist a movie that offers this tagline!

The Ghastly Ones!

You are seeing a trend: classic grindhouse poster art – sex, violence, SHOCKS BEYOND BELIEF! – c’mon in suckers, the water’s fine!

First, check out the trailer:

Then, check out the “Doctor’s Warning” on the poster – a classic “come on” for the suckers at that time…love it! Now, back to “The Ghastly Ones” plot: Three married couples are forced to spend the night in a Victorian-era house where they start getting killed off by a deranged psycho who’s bent on claiming an inheritance they are all entitled to.

Here’s a great bit of trivia, thanks to IMDB: In several of the fight scenes of the film, the crew and their cameras and sound equipment are visible. There are also moments when the director can be heard softly reminding the actors of their lines.

Now THAT”S film making! Here’s another example of Milligan’s madness – starring this “blue-faced” women:

The Body Beneath!

This is arguably is masterwork, mainly because these blue-faced beauties show up for no reason, but they liven up the pace of the film!

Check out the trailer, which proclaims that the movie was “filmed in the graveyards of England!”

In this movie, Milligan captures the eerie horror of-, ah who’s kidding who? Do you REALLY care what it’s about? It’s slow-moving and laughably bad in a dementedly fun way! I mean, you have to watch it in order to find out why these women look like THIS!

There is so much more on Andy Milligan to share, including a book that tells the hilarious, and ultimately sad story of an awful filmmaker who managed to make a number of movies that are still being enjoyed today!

Click on my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/02/13/fleshpots-rats-cranium-cleaving-color-meet-andy-milligan-sexploitations-ed-wood/

I’m not trying to pick on Andy Milligan – after all, he made movies, so bravo for that! In fact, there are a number of filmmakers who had their own “unique” vision for movies:

All Hail Tommy Wiseau!

If you know “bad cinema”, then of course you know “The Room”, considered one of the most hilariously inept films ever made – and there is a great book that tells the whole “behind the scenes” story!

Greg Sistero’s starred in the film alongside Wiseau, and he gives a “no holds barred” look at the madness behind the moviemaking…read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/10/27/tommy-wiseaus-classic-the-room-now-a-book-tommys-secrets-revealed/

Let me know your favorite “bad movies” – they are all worth celebrating!

Superman Lives! Or, The Story Of How He Died!

“Highly creative people have a hard time getting their movies made. Full stop. That’s all it is. Because they bring stuff that blows everyone away, and as much as the claim is they want something original, they’re terrified of it. That’s what happens. So, you don’t see those movies because they scare everybody up the chain of command.”

That quote sums up the failure of acclaimed Director Tim Burton and star Nicolas Cage, fresh off an Oscar win, to make the ultimate Superman film, “Superman Lives!”

Now there’s a terrific documentary that tells the whole, fascinating story – with tons of behind-the-scenes footage – and almost everyone participates!

First, check out the trailer:

Documentary Filmmaker Jon Schnepp tells the story, and while the trailer shows too much of his on-camera antics, he’s not obtrusive in the film – the documentary itself is beautifully made, and Schnepp got a ton of great on-camera interviews with everyone involved!

Kevin Smith’s Hilarious Anecdotes!

Kevin Smith is laugh-out-loud funny as he recounts his role in this saga. He tells hilarious stories about developing the screenplay – and getting forced out when Tim Burton came on board.

What makes this documentary so compelling is a brand new, INDEPTH and CANDID interview with Director Tim Burton, who explains how the entire project fell apart just weeks before filming was to begin.

The documentary has a ton of behind-the-scenes footage, and a long and very funny interview with legendary Producer Jon Peters, plus Warner Brothers Executives, special effects artists, costume designers – and Kevin Smith has a funny story about being asked to come up with a Giant Spider for Superman to fight!

The Giant Spider Battle!

The documentary has some real fun as Smith tells the giant spider story, intercutting various people contradicting Kevin, who has a lot of fun remembering the spider! It really shows how the collaborative effort can be upstaged by ego.

Here is a fun fact: Kevin Smith directed some episodes of the second season of Supergirl (2015), the first titled “Supergirl Lives” as a reference to the film. Smith joked he expected Supergirl to fight a giant spider as in the infamous battle scene proposed for this film.

As I said, just weeks before filming was set to begin, the entire film fell apart. As one Graphic Artist Sylvian Despretz says in the film:

“Highly creative people have a hard time getting their movies made. Full stop. That’s all it is. Because they bring stuff that blows everyone away, and as much as the claim is they want something original, they’re terrified of it. That’s what happens. So, you don’t see those movies because they scare everybody up the chain of command.”

This is a great film, and there is a website that has much more detail – check it out here:

http://www.tdoslwh.com

Legendary Movie Producer Jon Peters is in the movie – and is very candid and honest about his background:

His tale is a “True Hollywood Story” – click on my story here to find out why he made millions NOT to produce a “Superman” film:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/13/legendary-producer-jon-peters-making-a-fortune-for-not-producing-superman-movies-the-amazing-hollywood-reporter-interview/

Movies that fall apart are everywhere in Hollywood, and I love documentaries that dissect what happened:

The disastrous film “The Island Of Dr. Moreau” with Marlon Brando is one example – see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/03/04/madman-marlon-brando-lost-soul-of-dr-moreau-best-bad-movie-the-cinema-sewer/

And don’t forget that the making of a disastrous film can be as entertaining as what’s onscreen!

This amazing book about the making of the legendarily bad “The Room” has been made into a movie by James Franco…read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/03/14/james-francos-disaster-artist-tells-the-inside-story-of-tommy-wiseaus-the-room/

Let me know if you’ve seen Nicolas Cage as Superman!

Let’s Go To The Movies!

My second home is a movie palace: a place to escape, to explore, to dream, and to get a raised heartbeat due to stuff like this:

Yes, “killer go go dancers” are always an important part of any movie – and in this edition of “Movies A-Z”, I have those naughty go-go dance killers for you, plus many more “M” movies to share – so let’s get going with a classic slice of blaxploitation!

10 – “The Mack”

The “blaxploitation” genre includes many great films like “Super Fly” and “Foxy Brown” – and one of the founders of the genre was Max Julien, who made a great film about “The Mack” – check out the trailer:

This was the first time I’d seen Richard Pryor in a movie, and he is great – you can see how he commands the screen, even in a supporting role.

If you are unfamiliar with the “blaxploitation” genre, here is a great place to start your film education:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/04/25/the-mack-sweet-sweetback-blacula-blaxploitation-lives/

If you know the question “why are you so unpopular with the Chicago police department?”, then you know one of the great comedy action films:

9 – “Midnight Run”

Robert DeNiro showed his comedic chops as a Bounty Hunter who has a VERY difficult client – here is the trailer:

While not a huge hit when released in 1988, “Midnight Run” has gotten a reputation as one of the funniest action films ever – and now there is a new remastered special edition on blu-ray – read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/28/fistophobia-the-brilliant-but-neglected-buddy-action-comedy-midnight-run/

Next up is the first film rated “V” for violence!

8 – “Mark Of The Devil”

There is a category of film in the 70’s known as “Euro-sleaze”, exploitation films from central and eastern Europe that pushed the envelope for sex and violence….and “Mark Of The Devil” may be one of the most shocking – check out the trailer:

This film was released widely in the US in 1970, and the “gimmick” was a free “vomit bag” for everyone who attended!

See more about this wacky movie stunt here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/04/classic-movie-gimmicks-mark-of-the-devil-vomit-bags-censored-movie-madness/

Another gritty exploitation classic was released in 1981 – the shocking revenge thriller from Director Abel Ferrera!

7 – “Ms. 45”

Zoe Lund starred as a young mute woman who is assaulted in New York – and she decides to fight back!

Here is the trailer:

Zoe Lund made her movie debut in this controversial thriller – a sort of female version of “Death Wish” – she is mesmerizing to watch in the film – which is raw and gritty – and her real life story was tragic…you can read more about her here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/04/17/ms-45-a-stunning-movie-debut-for-zoe-lund-the-shocking-true-hollywood-heroin-death-of-a-great-young-actress/

Next up on the “M” list is one of the most imaginative, exhilarating movie musicals of all time – thanks to visionary Director Baz Luhrmann!

6 – “Moulin Rouge”

Nicole Kidman and Ewan MacGregor star as ill-fated lovers who meet at the legendary Moulin Rouge theater in Paris – here is the trailer:

“Moulin Rouge” is, without a doubt, one of the most creative films ever released.

The dance numbers are amazing – the camera never stops, and the cast has so much energy – also, Luhrmann used a unique blend of modern and classic music for the soundtrack, and the dance numbers – so get ready for a mashup of “Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend” and “Smells Like Teen Spirit!”

I just re-watched this recently with my wife and it holds up as fresh as when we first saw it.

Next up is a surreal dark comedy from England – starring legendary Actor Peter Sellers – and a real life Beatle!

5 – “The Magic Christian”

This is one of the darkest of black comedies from England in 1969 – with Sellers a wealthy eccentric who likes to use money to play with people…and Beatles drummer Ringo Starr as a homeless man who he adopts! First, check out the trailer:

This is a very dark comedy with many surreal touches, and Sellers and Ringo are great together.

The movie is star-studded, with John Cleese, Yul Brynner and Raquel Welch among the stars making cameo appearances, and Paul McCartney wrote the title track “Come And Get It!”

See that video – and more, by clicking on the story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/05/02/ringo-starr-the-fab-fours-magic-christian-madness-raquel-welch-dominatrix-great-solo-music/

How about this next film – endorsed by The President and Vice President Of The United States!

4 – “Mantis In Lace”

I LOVE that President Obama and Vice President Biden were photographed at a burger bar with the “Mantis In Lace” poster in plain sight! Talk about free advertising!

This is one wacky exploitation flick – which was originally known as “LILA”, and here is the original trailer for it:

This is one of those early exploitation films that promises a LOT more then it shows – but has energy and creativity that makes it a really fun “time capture” – one of many of that era – you can see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/06/06/psycho-go-go-dancers-delinquent-schoolgirls-and-candy-snatchers-more-70s-grindhouse/

From “grindhouse” to “the Oscars”, this list of “M” movies has them all!

3 – “Midnight Cowboy”

The Best Picture of 1969, “Midnight Cowboy” is the gritty drama about an unlikely friendship between wannabe male hustler Joe Buck, and streetwise hustler Ratso Rizzo…here is the trailer:

This is a brilliant, challenging film – with Dustin Hoffman’s classic line:

“I’m Walking’ Here!”

By the way, that iconic line was ad-libbed! It’s also the only X-rated film to win Best Picture – see more great trivia about his film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/05/07/x-rated-butter-cowboys-droogs-oscars-x-flirtation/

Time to head overseas for one of the wildest new genres in film – “J-sploitation!”

2 – “The Machine Girl”

“J-sploitation” is another genre of film that is worth exploring.

Japanese exploitation films usually involve a young woman who is abused, who then gets the ultimate revenge against her attackers in very bloody ways….check out the trailer:

These films are mostly over-the-top action spectacle with lots of blood, but in a cartoonish way – really wild films – see them all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/14/mutant-girls-toilet-zombies-japans-wild-female-ninjas-bloody-j-sploitation-fun/

I will wrap up my “M” list with one of my favorite movies of all time, with an incredible performance by the legendary Peter O’ Toole:

1 – “My Favorite Year”

Richard Benjamin directed this affectionate tribute to the early days of live television – here is the trailer:

This hilarious look at life behind-the-scenes of a live weekly TV show is great fun – and also warm and surprisingly emotional as well – and Peter O’ Toole chews up the scenery as the over-the-hill action star who agrees to do the show to get the IRS off his back!

See more about this legendary “hell raiser” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/07/10/peter-otoole-retires-a-look-at-this-hellraiser/

There you go, ten great films with the letter “M” – now, if you’ve missed any of my previous letters, you can catch up:

Alan Alda’s just hanging around wait for you to check out my list of movies from “A-F” – which you can see here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/04/classic-movies-a-f-sixty-great-movies-with-one-thing-in-common-the-alphabet/

Now, if you want to see what I shared for the letter G-L, you can go here, and remember: the horse’s head was real!

Yes, that trivia is just one of the reasons to check out my “G-L” list of sixty great movies here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/25/from-godfathers-to-stephen-sondheim-my-list-of-movies-g-l-are-sixty-cinema-classics/

Let me know who you love from “M” – like Jimmy Serano!

Smile! Withnail Has Something Special For You!

Richard E. Grant can’t stop smiling, since this list of films will make everyone deliriously happy!

For this edition of “Movies A-Z”, I wanted to make sure I offered a mix of the popular and the obscure.

When it comes to the letter “W”, there are SO many great movies that I didn’t have room for “When Harry Met Sally”, “What About Bob”, “Whiplash” or “War Of The Roses”…but I have ten great choices across a number of genres, so let’s get going!

10 – “Withnail & I”

The funniest British comedy ever, this 1987 comedy is the story of two struggling Actors in London at the end of the 60’s…here is the trailer:

The late, great actor Richard Griffiths is terrific as “Uncle Monty”, who has a thing for Withnail. Director Bruce Robinson based the story on his own life – see more great trivia about his hilarious film – and Richard E. Grant’s great autobiography here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/04/10/withnail-i-30th-anniversary-classic-80s-cult-comedy-richard-e-grant-tell-all-book-with-nails/

From the profane to the surreal, one of the greatest family films of all time:

9 – “Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory”

Forget the remake. Gene Wilder IS Willy Wonka, and this movie is one of the most inventive and surreal musical comedies of all time. Here is the trailer:

Gene Wilder brought the perfect blend of comedy and chaos to the role. He was a brilliant Actor – here is a look at some of his best work:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/29/rip-gene-wilder-iconic-willy-wonka-richard-pryor-partnership-mel-brooks-frankenstein/

In 1973, one of the strangest horror films was released with one of the most shocking endings ever:

8 – “The Wicker Man”

It starts out so ordinary: a British Police Detective heads to a remote island to search for a missing girl…but that’s the last ordinary thing about the film. Here is the trailer:

Christopher Lee in Robin HardyÕs THE WICKER MAN (1973). Courtesy: Rialto Pictures/ Studiocanal

Horror legend Christopher Lee stars as the cult leader who can’t let Detective Edward Woodward uncover the mystery of the island, and Britt Eckland does a nude dance that will never be forgotten! You can see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/06/23/burning-man-inspiration-the-wicker-man-naked-cult-horror/

The ending of “The Wicker Man” is one of cinema’s best. At the same time in movies, “old lady horror” was also a trend, and here is one of the campiest examples:

7 – “What’s The Matter With Helen?”

Debbie Reynolds and Shelley Winters had a blast making this campy horror film – check out the trailer:

In the early 70’s, several of these films were released, pairing up two Hollywood legends in a horror situation….see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/03/28/bloody-grannies-epic-hollywood-feud-camp-old-lady-horror-classics/

For fans of “The Deuce” on HBO, you will know that 42nd Street in New York was full of movie theaters showing films like this:

6 – “Wide Open”

The “Queen Of Artsploitation” was Sweden’s Christina Lindberg, who starred in a number of provocative european art films that were hugely successful in the US – partly because of the “relaxation” of obscenity laws in the early 70’s.

Lindberg inspired a character in Quentin Tarantino’s “Kill Bill” movies, and she continues to have legions of fans today. See all of her movies here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/05/21/swedish-sex-kitten-christina-lindberg-the-original-queen-of-artsploitation/

Also in the 70’s was one of my favorite sci-fi films:

5 – “Westworld”

This isn’t the HBO series, this is the original thriller starring Yul Brynner, Richard Benjamin and James Brolin. Here is the trailer:

The tagline for this movie was classic:

“Westworld. Where nothing can possibly go W-O-R-N-G!”

Robots who begin to disobey and turn on humans….sound like the world today? This is a great film, and now an HBO series – read more about that here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/08/30/j-j-abrams-goes-to-westworld-new-sci-fi-franchise-classic-cult-film/

Burt Reynolds was one of the biggest stars in the 70’s, and this next film is a good reason why:

4 – “White Lightning”

Reynolds had a string of big hits in the 70’s, like “The Longest Yard”, “Gator”, and this film – here is the trailer:

Reynolds made great “hicksploitation” action films, with lots of redneck cops, fast cars and sexy women. The genre worked well for awhile – here are some of the others:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/02/22/suck-down-some-white-lightning-hicksploitation-burt-reynolds-gator-good-ol-boy-action-classics/

Next up is a fascinating documentary about some of the world’s most dangerous jobs:

3 – “Workingman’s Death”

The late Director Michael Glawogger turned his cameras on some of the most shocking jobs you could have.

Here is the trailer:

The film is composed of six differently titled chapters. The first five depict hazardous conditions of hard laborers around the world and the sixth shows contrasting scenes of youths in a former German industrial complex which had been converted into a leisure park – this is one of the best documentaries I’ve ever seen. See more of this Directors work here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/11/22/searing-expose-docs-workingmans-death-whores-glory-brilliant-documentaries-showcase-life-on-the-edge/

OK, let’s lighten up with some Billy Idol, OK?

2 – “The Wedding Singer”

In 1998, Adam Sandler made one of his best movies, about a wedding singer who falls in love with Drew Barrymore – and yes, Billy Idol is in it too!

Here is the trailer:

This is a great “feel good” comedy, with Sandler giving one of his most effortless performances, and Billy Idol is hilarious in his cameo. Idol has had a well-deserved resurgence lately – check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/02/02/billy-idols-rebel-yell-adam-sandlers-wedding-singer-cameo-why-billy-idol-matters/

Finally, one of the greatest films ever made ends the list:

1 – “The Wild Bunch”

Director Sam Peckinpah depicted the wild west as never before in this brilliant 1969 film starring William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Warren Oates and Robert Ryan. Here is the trailer:

The film showed more bloodshed than any movie before, and set a new standard for the depiction of violence on the screen. But it was also an homage to the wild west, and the desperados who wandered it…

It is a masterpiece – and you can see more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/08/05/the-wild-bunch-billy-the-kid-sam-packinpahs-soup-tossing/

So there you have it, ten films with a “W” that stand the test of time – even Withnail agrees!