How About Some Classic “B” Movies!

In Hollywood parlance, a “B” movie used to refer to the second film on a double feature – a lesser known movie that viewers got as a bonus…here’s an example:

It’s too bad there are no longer double bills like this, but it gives me a way to launch into ten great movies that begin with the letter “B” – and I begin with what I call:

The Original “Hunger Games!”

Yes, you may know “Hunger Games”, but this is the film that started it all: a group of students forced to survive on a secluded island – battling against each other – the intense and controversial Japanese film from 2000:

10 – Battle Royale

This ultra-controversial film began in Japan as a controversial novel – the story is simple: one high school class is taken to an island – and only one lone survivor leaves! Here is the trailer:

This subject matter was so controversial in Japan that members of the Japanese Parliament tried to get the novel banned, and then later tried to ban the film as well. It backfired, as both became mega-hits based on the controversy.

You can read more about this great movie here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/18/behold-battle-royale-the-original-hunger-games/

Next up is one of my favorite movies – about the changing nature of TV news – while it’s 30 years old, it’s amazing topical today:

9 – “Broadcast News”

William Hurt, Holly Hunter and Albert Brooks star in this inside look at the changing nature of TV news. You can see so many parallels to what is happening today….one of the best films about TV, TV news, and chasing ratings at all costs…

It’s just one of many films that captured where we are today – see that story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/05/31/political-chaos-2016-network-and-broadcast-news-nailed-it-this-town-confirms-the-shenanigans/

Next up is a classic science fiction film from 1982 with the iconic line:

“Wake Up, Time To Die”

8 – Blade Runner

This Ridley Scott films stars Harrison Ford as a “blade runner” who must terminate four “replicants” who stole a ship in space and have returned to Earth to find their creator.

Here is the trailer:

According to IMDB, Ridley Scott’s first cut ran four hours! When he showed it to the cast and crew, they “admitted that while it looked beautiful, it was mostly incomprehensible, necessitating additional editing and an explanatory voice-over.”

The imagery of the film is haunting, and one of the greatest moments is when Rutger Hauer, one of the replicants, leans over Ford and whispers:

“Wake up, time to die.”

I can’t wait for the sequel, “Blade Runner 2049”, which will be out later this year!

Here is one of the most seminal films of the 60’s, which ushered a whole new era of explicit violence in film:

7 – Bonnie & Clyde

In 1967, Arthur Penn directed this brilliant film starring Warren Beatty, Faye Dunaway, Gene Hackman and Michael J. Pollard – a raw, violent and controversial look at these modern day outlaws:

My friend Alison Martino hosted a screening in LA with Pollard in attendance, here is a look at that event:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/03/17/bonnie-clyde-vintage-la-screening-amazing-live-guest-pictures-from-a-revolution/

Time to lighten the mood, with the the highest grossing R-rated female comedy of all time!

6 – Bridesmaids

Kristen Wiig catapulted to stardom in 2011, along with Melissa McCarthy, thanks to this hilariously funny look at the world of “bridesmaids” – check out the trailer:

This ensemble cast is amazing – and Jon Hamm is hilarious is a small role as Wiig’s sex-crazed boyfriend:

Here is some surprising trivia, thanks to IMDB:

“Before he came to Hollywood, Jon Hamm, who plays Ted in this movie, was a high school drama teacher at the John Burroughs School in Ladue, Missouri. One of his acting students was Ellie Kemper, who plays Becca.”

Wow, I love that!

Now that I have you laughing, time to thrust you into a political assassination drama that was overlooked upon release, but now is considered a masterpiece!

5 – Blow Out

Legendary Director Brian DePalma made this political thriller set during the 1976 bicentennial election. John Travolta has never been better as a Sound Engineer who accidentally captures a political assassination – here is the trailer:

Travolta is terrific in the film, which bombed upon release, but is now considered a masterpiece. DePalma’s previous film was “Dressed To Kill”, and while that thriller was a smash hit, this was considered too dark by audiences at the time:

DePalma’s then wife Nancy Allen starred as well, and she did a great job…read more about this film, and other DePalma masterpieces, here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/03/a-celebration-of-depalma-the-best-least-known-classics/

Here’s another great film that was overlooked upon release, even though it starred one of the biggest stars of 1971:

4 – The Beguiled

Clint Eastwood stars as the injured civil war solder taken in by a woman’s school – and the erotic issues that arise. Here is the trailer:

“The Beguiled” was overlooked in 1971, partly because Eastwood had two other films the same year – here they are:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/12/clint-eastwoods-1971-triple-play-of-classic-films-dirty-harry-play-misty-for-me-the-beguiled/

Time to lighten up with one of my favorite movies about Hollywood – and arguably Eddie Murphy’s greatest comedic role!

3 – Bowfinger

Steve Martin wrote this affectionate look at the underbelly of Hollywood, and Eddie Murphy is hilarious in two roles!

Click here to see the trailer:

This is a great ensemble cast, an affectionate look at the “anger ons” in Hollywood, and a really funny movie as well – click her for a ton of trivia about this great movie:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/24/eddie-murphys-comic-brilliance-his-bowfinger-redemption/

Here’s a movie that starred a Hollywood legend:

2 – The Big Sleep

Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall sizzle in this classic film noir directed by Howard Hawks from a script by legendary Writer William Faulkner!

Check out the classic trailer:

Bogart plays Private Investigator Philip Marlowe, who is hired by a wealthy general to find out and stop his youngest daughter, Carmen, from being blackmailed about her gambling debts…

According to Lauren Bacall, production was such fun, that they got a memo from Jack L. Warner saying “Word has reached me that you are having fun on the set. This must stop.”

The film is based on the series of novels by Raymond Chandler…all of them are worth reading as well!

Finally, here is a modern “film noir” classic, which took the genre that “The Big Sleep” epitomized and added a frank sexuality:

1 – Body Heat

Lawrence Kasden directed this brilliant film noir in 1981 – a steamy erotic thriller starring William Hurt and Kathleen Turner – here is the trailer:

“Body Heat” is one of my favorite movies of all time – a great thriller that has a mystery that unfolds beautifully…a classic – see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/09/29/steamy-body-heat-and-double-crossing-indemnity-film-noir-sizzles/

There you have it – ten films beginning with the letter “B” – let me know what you think, and don’t forget to check out my “A” list as well – click here!

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/09/give-me-an-a-ten-classic-films-that-begin-with-a-movies-a-z/

Here Are Ten Great “D” Movies!

Continuing my alphabetical countdown of movies I love, here are ten that begin with the letter “D” – they are full of sex, violence and Paul Giamatti too!

Remember, these are not in order, just ten films to share – so let’s get going with the most realistically bloody fist fight ever captured on film!

10 – “Darker Than Amber”

There was a great series of hard-boiled crime novels by Author John D. MacDonald featuring the ultra-cool Travis McGee. In 1970, a film was released starring Rod Taylor, and it included the most violent – and real – fish fight in film history!

Here is the fight scene:

The movie wasn’t a hit, but it is terrific – and you can read all about it here:

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

I have posted about many obscure films like “Amber”, and also many films like this one:

9 – “Dead Sushi”

That’s right, killer sushi!

Folks, the wild wild filmmaking going on in Japan is worth checking out, and if you want to bite into a hilariously over-the-top killer sushi film, this is the one for you! You can see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/01/28/killer-sushi-toilet-zombies-karaoke-terror-tasty-japanese-exploitation/

You know how they say “revenge is a dish best served cold?” Well, here is my ultimate revenge flick:

8 – “Dead Man’s Shoes”

Director Shane Meadows made this terrific revenge movie, starring Paddy Considine, who also-cowrote with Meadows. Check out the trailer:

Trust me when I tell you this is a dark revenge story – but I loved it!

If you want something a big more “mainstream”, how about some Michael Douglas?

7 – “Disclosure”

This is classic Michael Douglas: playing a man who is “sexually harassed” by Demi Moore – all while a really “so dated its funny” high-tech espionage story unfolds.

Michael Douglas made his “penis trilogy” around this time – click on my story to see how “Disclosure” is part of his perfect storm of penis films!

https://johnrieber.com/2014/01/13/fatal-attractions-basic-instincts-full-disclosure-the-infamous-michael-douglas-penis-trilogy/

Now, time to head to the 70’s, where all the women were “Dirty” and the men were “Crazy!”

6 – “Dirty Mary Crazy Larry”

Peter Fonda and Susan George star in this wild action adventure – if you haven’t heard of it, you are missing out!

Check out the trailer:

Susan George is a great Actress, and has an incredible career – see all of her great movies, from “Straw Dogs” to “Mandingo” by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/21/terrific-actress-susan-george-from-straw-dogs-to-dirty-mary-and-mandingo-a-controversial-british-sex-kitten/

Now, time to celebrate the beginning of the longest running movie series – which began in 1962 when we first met Secret Agent 007!

5 – “Dr. NO”

Yes, Sean Connery became a super star when he starred as James Bond, the coolest spy in the world.

Here is the first ever trailer, introducing 007 to the world!

“Dr. NO” was a huge hit, and it led to the greatest action series of all time – and not only was Connery the greatest Bond, but many feel that Ursula Andress was the greatest “Bond Girl” as well!

Andress set the stage for all Bond girls to come – click here to find out why her nickname was Ursula “UNDRESS!”

https://johnrieber.com/2016/03/28/ursula-andress-or-undress-007s-first-bond-girl-60s-sex-kitten-frolicked-with-nature/

In 1980, Director Brian DePalma made one of his greatest movies, the shocking thriller:

4 – “Dressed To Kill”

Angie Dickinson stars as a sexually repressed woman who picks up the wrong man at a museum…check out the trailer:

DePalma was on a roll at this time, having made “Carrie” and “The Fury”, and next up was “Scarface!”

DePalma’s shocker is worth watching, as is this controversial shocker from a decade earlier:

3 – “The Devils”

Director Ken Russell made this intense drama about possessed Nuns – with a strong sexual desire!

Oliver Reed stars as the “Witchfinder” who must determine if these Nuns are possessed by the devil!

See the trailer, and bunch of movie trivia, here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/12/23/unleash-the-devils-movie-lovers-demand-ken-russells-sexy-controversial-masterpiece/

Here’s another controversial film from 1971 – with the iconic line:

“Do You Feel Lucky, Punk?”

2 – “Dirty Harry”

Clint Eastwood starred as “Dirty Harry” Callahan, who was given every crummy job the SF police department didn’t want to handle.

His iconic monologue near the beginning of the film cemented this as a classic movie thriller, but it was controversial at the time for its portrayal of police – read more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/12/clint-eastwoods-1971-triple-play-of-classic-films-dirty-harry-play-misty-for-me-the-beguiled/

Finally, I will leave you with an interesting comedy/drama that will have you whistling a classic tune!

1 – “Duets”

Gwyneth Paltrow, Huey Lewis and Paul Giamatti head up a great cast of karaoke singers who dream of winning the big competition – here is the trailer:

My favorite moment in the movie is when Paul Giamatti gets up and sings Todd Rundgren’s classic song “Hello, It’s Me.” Click here to hear the song:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/08/12/paul-giamatti-singing-duets-with-gwyneth-paltrow-todd-rundgren-hello-its-me-karaoke/

Now everyone knows I am a huge fan of Todd as well:

This is one of his signature songs, and he still performs in on tour.

Here is Todd performing it live in 2016:

There are my ten “D” movies, I’m sure I left out many more – leave a note to let me know!

Also, I have been posting these stories for a while now, including this classic slice of cinema:

It’s just one of the ten “A” movies, I shared, so make sure to check out my “A” list here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/09/give-me-an-a-ten-classic-films-that-begin-with-a movies-a-z/

And of course, the “B” list included this classic movie:

One of cinema’s steamiest film noir made the list, and you can see all of my “B” choices here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/13/b-movies-indeed-my-list-of-ten-great-films-beginning-with-b/

Those two letters didn’t include this film, which is one of my all-time favorites:

That is, of course, a film that begins with the letter “C” – and you can see them all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/16/the-c-list-great-cult-movies-beginning-with-c/

Let me know your favorites!

Celebrating Cinema – One Letter At A Time!

For those who have been playing along, I’ve been looking at great films that begin with the same letters – so far I’ve gone from “A” to “F”…highlighting great movies like these:

The concept is simple, but it’s a fun way to share ten movies from each letter – in no particular order, but I did try to mix up genres so there were blockbusters and cult gems as well.

Of course, I missed some great ones – I mean, how could I leave this out of the “B” list?

Most recently, my list of ten great “F” movies didn’t have this masterpiece:

As you can see, there are just too many great films – still, it’s great when people give me more options!

If you’ve missed any of my letters, here’s a short recap of “Movies A-F”:

An amazingly iconic movie poster sets the stage for a list of classic “A” movies – from “Alien” to “Auto Focus” and more – see them all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/09/give-me-an-a-ten-classic-films-that-begin-with-a-movies-a-z/

If you want to see some classic “B” movies, try this one:

“Broadcast News” is a great film, a prescient look at television news in a time to great social change. Here are more of my favorite “B” movies as well:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/13/b-movies-indeed-my-list-of-ten-great-films-beginning-with-b/

I also posted on ten great “C” movies, like this cult classic:

“Chuck & Buck” was joined by a wide range of great movies that began with the letter “C” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/16/the-c-list-great-cult-movies-beginning-with-c/

I also posted a list of ten films that began with the letter “D” – a few ere big hits like “Disclosure” with Michael Douglas – and some were more offbeat, like this one:

Yes, “The Sushi Bites Back!” That’s just one of the amazing movies with the letter “D” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/22/movies-with-a-d-ten-classic-d-list-movies-revenge-sex-the-dawn-of-007/

If you like “movies with an “E”, there was classic “Evil Dead” horror, the black comedy “Election”, and this early 70’s cult gem:

This cult 70’s film is now on blu-ray – see more from my “E” list here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/28/incredible-cinema-with-a-capital-e-my-movies-a-z-countdown-continues/

Finally, I recently posted my list of “F” movies like “Fargo” and “Fascination”, as well as this Best Picture nominee from 1987:

Yes, it was nominated and deservedly so, it’s classic pulp cinema that Hollywood does better than anyone! Oh, the boiled bunny was real, too! Read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/31/my-favorite-movies-with-a-big-f-fatal-bunnies-faster-pussycats-fuzz-too/

More “Movies A-Z” to come!

A New Action Buddy Comedy Is About To POP!

My friends at “Action-A-Go-Go” showcased the terrific trailer for this new TV series premiering in the US on August 9 – and here’s some more great news – Keanu Reeves is part of it!

Make Room For these “Swedish Dicks!”

There is so much great TV on right now – and you will have to make room for one more!

“SWEDISH DICKS”, the new scripted procedural comedy about a mismatched pair of L.A.-based detectives, premieres on Pop Wednesday, August 9, at 8/7c.

Check out the trailer:

First of all, Peter Stormare is a great character Actor – one of his best roles is in “Seinfeld”, as one of the thugs hired to help George move the “Frogger” game….and of course, he was great in the movie “Fargo” as well…

FARGO, Peter Stormare, Steve Buscemi, 1996

Keanu Reeves Is Part Of The Show As Well!

The great news is that “John Wick” himself, Keanu Reeves, has a recurring role in the show! Here is the press release:

Starring Peter Stormare (“John Wick: Chapter 2,” “Fargo,” “American Gods”) and actor/comedian Johan Glans (Best Male Comedian, “Swedish Comedy Awards”) with special recurring guest star Keanu Reeves (“John Wick,” “The Matrix”), SWEDISH DICKS is a half-hour single camera comedy about an aging ex-stuntman (Stormare) stuck in the past, and an overly optimistic Swedish DJ (Glans) stuck in the digital world. Together they get unstuck by forming the private detective firm ‘Swedish Dicks’ – solving some of the strangest and wildest cases L.A. has ever seen. The 10-episode first season features an array of guest stars, including Traci Lords (“Cry-Baby,” “Melrose Place”), Margaret Cho (“Fashion Police,” “Drop Dead Diva”), Anthony LaPaglia (“Without a Trace,” “Frasier”) and Eric Roberts (“The Dark Knight,” “Suits”).

So, along with having a bunch of great guest stars in the series, Keanu is going mohave a recurring role in the show.

Wow. Lots of great guest stars! Thanks to my friends at “Actionagogo” for sharing this – you should check out their website, as they have tons of new trailers and other features about action movies, tv shows, pop culture, comics – from all around the world!

http://actionagogo.com

Aside from the hit “John Wick” series, Keanu keeps making great action films, like this one he directed a couple of years ago:

“Man Of Tai Chi” is a great martial arts action film – you can see the trailer and lots more about Keanu here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/07/28/keanu-reeves-kung-fu-fight-club-man-of-tai-chi-47-ronin/

Kudos to Keanu for taking part in this show.

Let me know if you’d be watching these “Dicks!”

Movies, Movies, Movies…

Ahh, the joy of a packed movie palace, settling in to enjoy a great film with a crowd full of friendly strangers….it’s why we love the cinema, right?

Well, we also love it because of great Actors like George C. Scott, shown here being “choked out” a bit – and guess what: Scott shows up TWICE on my “A-Z” countdown of great movies that begin at the letter “H”!

In addition to George C, we have angry cowboys, bad breakups, chainsaw hookups AND shamefully mis-titled Hookers!

As always, this is not a countdown – all ten films are equal in my book – so let’s get to counting – with an incredible action movie starring a hospital full of babies!

10 – “Hard Boiled”

I want to begin with this 1992 movie, directed by John Woo, because it has some of the most incredible action sequences ever put on film, including an extended climax that takes place inside the baby ward of a hospital!

Chow Yun Fat is outstanding as a Cop who won’t back down – even when the mob storm a children’s hospital – this is one of the most action-packed sequences ever captured on film.

“Hard Boiled” brought Chow Yun Fat and Tony Leung to American audiences – it’s an amazing action film – check out this trailer, which is basically 3 minutes of incredible action scenes set to music!

this film takes no time to mesmerize: in the first five minutes, you meet Chow Yun Fat when he literally wipes out a whole room full of gangsters – while sliding down a bannister!

If you haven’t seen this film, search it out now – it is incredible! Read more about this genre of Hong Kong action film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/06/30/killer-assassins-hard-boiled-killers-death-by-hammer-classic-asian-thrillers/

I am a fan of westerns: classics with John Wayne, more modern versions with Clint Eastwood and everything in between, which takes us to this gritty 1971 oater:

9 – “The Hunting Party”

This is an obscure 1971 film starring Gene Hackman, Oliver Reed and Candace Bergen – check out the trailer:

Oliver Reed is the outlaw who wants to learn to read, and Candace Bergen is the school teacher he kidnaps to teach him – except she’s also the wife of cattle baron Gene Hackman – who rustles up a “Hunting Party” and begins to pick off the bad guys one by one.

There is lots of grindhouse violence here, but kind of interesting to watch a B-movie being acted out by some well-known “A”-list Actors. This came out the same year that Hackman won Best Actor for “The French Connection!”

Speaking Of Oscar-winning performances:

8 – “Hannah & Her Sisters”

In 1986, Michael Caine and Diane Wiest both won Supporting Acting Oscars for their work in this terrific Woody Allen film – check out the trailer:

Mia Farrow and Barbara Hershey are also outstanding – a film with heart, humor and a lot of emotion. Woody Allen won the Oscar for his screenplay and the film was nominated as well for Best Picture.

Now, another Oscar-winning Actor in a very powerful role:

7 – “Hardcore”

First, while this poster is incredibly powerful, George C. Scott NEVER says that line in the movie!

He does, however, experience the most intense movie screening of all time – check out the trailer:

Paul Schrader directed Scott and Season Hubley in this gritty thriller about a father searching the porn districts of LA and San Francisco, looking for his runaway daughter.

The movie was shot in the real XXX-rated theater districts of those two cities. It’s a powerful film, and you can see more trivia about the making of it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/28/hardcore-a-journey-into-70s-porn-hell-classic-george-c-scott-performance/

Let’s lighten things up with an offbeat comedy from 1972 that made Charles Grodin a star:

6 – “The Heartbreak Kid”

Grodin stars as a man who meets – and falls in love with – the beautiful Cybill Shepard – while on his honeymoon! Check out the trailer:

This is a great film, do NOT watch the awful remake with Ben Stiller – search this one out instead.

OK, our countdown continues now with an 80’s cult classic:

5 – “Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers”

The classic horror comedy came out in 1988, and it’s an over-saturated ball of fun!

This blend of comedy, violence and good clean “naughty fun” is a real treat – and I found a clip of pre-movie star Greg Kinnear at the film’s premiere!

Check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/21/hollywood-chainsaw-hookers-greg-kinnears-movietime-premiere-shocking-halloween-2015-horror/

Now, time to check-in with Doctor George C. Scott again:

4 – “The Hospital”

In 1971, Scott starred in this great black comedy about hospitals, doctors, and crazy patients!

Here is the trailer:

Paddy Chaefsky wrote the screenplay, which skewers the health care industry – he would go on to the do the same to television five years later with “Network.”

See more about this movie here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/01/16/movie-medical-malpractice-the-hospital-classic-caustic-comedy-where-does-it-hurt/

Are you yearning for some “J-Sploitation?” Or just wondering what it is?

3 – “Helldriver”

Welcome to the amazingly inventive genre of film known as “Japanese exploitation” – widely imaginative and eye popping – here is a trailer that offers up a ton of proof!

These movies always feature young women who have been wronged – and they always exact bloody revenge…this is a great example of the genre, and you can see more o them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/05/01/female-ninja-warriors-extreme-asian-cinema-updated/

Have you ever seen a movie that had been re-titled? Who knows why – perhaps the first name didn’t resonate – but here is one with THREE DIFFERENT NAMES!

2 – “Hooker’s Revenge!”

I love the “Queen Of Artsploitation” Christina Lindberg. In the early 70’s she shocked American audiences with her performances in european art films that were full of sex and nudity. Here is the classic “double bill” trailer for one of her movies:

There is just one problem: “Hookers Revenge” was the third title for the movie – it had already been released TWICE before in the US!

Yes, the film was originally released as “Thriller: A Cruel Picture”, then a year later as “They Call Her One Eye” – and finally years after that as “Hookers Revenge” – and it was the same movie!

It’s classic sexploitation, and Christina is terrific in it – the wild thing is the titling – because she was NEVER a hooker!

Read more about Lindberg’s amazing career, which inspired Quentin Tarantino, by clicking here:

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

Finally, what many consider to be the greatest film shocker of all wraps up my countdown:

1 – “Halloween”

“The night HE came home!” Director John Carpenter scared us to death with this movie – remember the classic trailer?

Jamie Lee Curtis was dubbed America’s greatest “Scream Queen” because of this film, and it has influenced horror films ever since…see the trailer and a ton of movie trivia here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/03/shocktober-day-3-screams-halloween-scream-queen-jamie-lee-curtis/

So there you have it, a great collection of “H” films to get caught up on or enjoy again…

If you missed by first six letters of the alphabet, here is a story about “Movies A-F”:

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

And you can’t miss “G”, which is full of great stuff like this:

Yes, that “Godfather” scene with the horse’s head was real! Check out all of my “G” list here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/05/g-is-for-gangsters-gotcha-and-a-b-c-too-my-movie-celebration-continues-with-classic-g-films/

Let me know your favorite films with the letter “H”!

Time For Some “I” Popping Cinema!

My “Movies A-Z” countdown continues with a great letter – “I”! There are classic comedies, riveting dramas, Oscar-winning best pictures, and some really offbeat stuff as well, so let’s get going.

Remember,this is NOT a countdown, just ten great movies to share with you, beginning with one of Asia’s darkest revenge thrillers:

10 – “I Saw The Devil”

This is a powerful revenge thriller, about a Cop who seeks out the murderer of his fiancé – as the trailer states:

“He’s Not Getting Even – He’s Just Getting Started…”

Check out the trailer:

Choi Min-sik stars as the serial killer who plays a deadly game of cat and mouse with a young Police Detective. He’s best known for his starring role in this brilliant film:

“Old Boy” is just one of many great revenge thrillers – see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/01/28/revenge-is-sweet-top-ten-sexploitation-revenge-classics/

Ready for some campy cult horror that actually has some great scares?

9 – “I Saw What You Did (And I Know Who You Are!)”

Legendary Actress Joan Crawford is top-billed, but she’s not in the film much – but it’s a great 50’s thrill ride – as you can see by this classic trailer:

It’s a great premise: making crank calls – until you call a killer! It’s surprisingly fun to watch all these years later – and Joan Crawford has made a great comeback thanks to the new TV series “Feud”:

Of course, someone who was featured in this TV drama didn’t like it so much – in fact she sued them! See the story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/30/olivia-de-havillands-big-feud-with-the-makers-of-the-hit-show/

Famous Actors sometimes go out on a limb for their art – here’s an Oscar Winner who went X-rated!

8 – “Inserts”

In 1975, Best Actor winner Richard Dreyfus starred as a reclusive film Director in Hollywood who spends his day making X-rated movies in his mansion!

Click here to see more about this forgotten cult gem:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/05/22/forgotten-movie-sexcapades-big-stars-inserts-and-labors-of-love/

There is a lot of provocative cinema to discover, including virtually ALL of Lars Von Trier’s work!

7 – “The Idiots”

In 1998, Von Trier used his “Dogme” style of filmmaking – no microphones, no lights, no sets – to tell the story of a group of adults who spend their time seeking their “inner idiot” to release their inhibitions.

Check out the trailer:

This is a challenging film to watch – there are moments that are brilliant – but amazingly uncomfortable as well – adults acting like mentally disabled people…as I said Von Trier is no stranger to controversy:

Last year the Director released a star-studded meditation on sex – see the trailer for “Nymphomaniac 1 & 2” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/12/06/nymphomaniac-details-latest-lars-von-trier-provocation-my-von-trier-exclusive/

OK, let’s all calm down now and cheer ourselves up with the greatest holiday movie of all time:

6 – “It’s A Wonderful Life”

This masterpiece from Frank Capra tells the story of George Bailey, who needs to hit bottom to realize that he does, indeed have a “Wonderful Life” – here is the trailer:

There are so many moments of brilliance int he film, which is also very dark as well – a meditation of “Good” versus “Evil” thank to Mr. Potter – luckily George has “Zuzu’s Pedals” to protect him – there is lots of great trivia about this movie, which you can see here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/11/23/amazing-love-actually-facts-rare-wonderful-life-photos-the-best-holiday-movies-ever/

Downsizing has been a big topic in the US for the past few decades, as older workers are pushed out for younger blood – and here is a good film that tackles the issue:

5 – “In Good Company”

Dennis Quaid has a new boss: Topher Grace, who sees Quaid as a washed up Executive – until he meets his daughter, Scarlett Johansson – check out the trailer:

The movie is a romanic comedy/drama that strikes the right balance throughout, and the acting is terrific…now, how about a comedy starring the biggest stars in the world – and a LOT OF THEM?

4 – “It’s A Mad Mad Mad Mad World!”

This 1963 comedy was produced and directed by Stanley Kramer and starred movie legend Spencer Tracy – along with an all-star cast including Edie Adams, Milton Berle, Sid Caesar, Buddy Hackett, Ethel Merman, Mickey Rooney, Phil Silvers, Terry-Thomas, and Jonathan Winters.

Check out the trailer:

It’s a wild chase for $350,000 in cash – whoever gets there first gets it all! While overblown and bloated in places, it’s a great example of an “all-star” cast going all out for fun!

Another incredible cast took home Oscars for the Best Picture of 1967:

3 – “In The Heat Of The Night”

A brilliant film, which won Rod Steiger the Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of a racist Sheriff in a small southern town – check out the trailer:

Sidney Poitier was also nominated for his role as Detective Virgin Tibbs of Philadelphia, who confronts this racist town as he investigates a murder…recently, there was a 50th anniversary screening – see that story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/04/09/tcms-amazing-film-festival-in-the-heat-of-the-night-reunion-carl-reiner-sidney-poitier-hollywoods-legends-honored/

Here’s an obscure treat that was just released on a remastered DVD:

2 – “Invasion Of The Body Snatchers”

In 1978, Donald Sutherland starred in the remake of the 50’s sci-fi-fi classic, about aliens who come to earth and take us over – from within – here is the trailer:

This is a dark, moody film that is worth seeking out…and speaking of that, I want to share a very obscure film from 1972, directed by the legendary Robert Altman:

1 – “Images”

Susannah York stars as a woman who is engulfed by terrorizing apparitions. As she kills them, we don’t know if these demons are figments of her hallucinatory imagination – or real people.

Check out the trailer:

Susannah York won Best Actress at the 1972 Cannes Film Festival for her work int he film, with is a classic Altman movie: great images, a dreamlike nature to it, and a raw honesty – all wrapped up in a murder mystery…or is it?

According to IMDB, Susannah York once said of this film:

“It seemed a whole string of incidents with nothing to link them together into a meaningful whole. In fact, I would have turned down the part, only Bob [Altman] rang me up from Los Angeles. Imagine trying to hold a conversation with somebody in America from a telephone box in a Greek village cafe! I couldn’t hear very much, but I gathered he wanted to fly over to Greece to talk things over with me. I was trying to say . . . well, is it really worth your while to come all that way, because I’m not very keen”.

There you go, ending the letter “I” with a classic Robert Altman film!

If you missed any of my previous posts, you didn’t see this classic film – that begins with a “D”:

“Darker Than Amber” is a great cult film, and you can see 59 others when you click on my “Movies A-F” list here:

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

Don’t worry, gangsters haven’t been forgotten, even if Marlon Brando always forgot his lines:

Yep, that’s why Robert Duvall “wore” his lines on set! It’s just one of the great “G” movies, which you can see here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/05/g-is-for-gangsters-gotcha-and-a-b-c-too-my-movie-celebration-continues-with-classic-g-films/

“The Godfather” is a classic, and so is this:

“Helldriver” is Japanese exploitation at its best – just one of ten great films that begin with “H” – see them all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/08/hard-boiled-movies-with-an-h-my-a-z-classic-movie-list-continues-with-heartbreak-and-helldrivers/

Let me know what you think of the letter “I”!

Ten Great “K” Films!

A theater full of laughing patrons sums up the letter “K” – because a couple of the movies beginning with that letter are the funniest of all time!

I’m counting down “Movies A-Z”, and this edition focused on the letter “K”, which has some classic action, comedy AND Quentin Tarantino, of course!

No real order, just ten reasons to love cinema – let’s get going with one of the funniest movies ever released!

10 – “Kentucky Fried Movie!”

The Zucker Brothers are best known for the comedic masterpiece “Airplane!”, but they warmed up with this classic comedy – a series of sketches with a ton of great Guest Actors…here is the trailer:

There are great comedy sketches and a 30-minute scene-for-scene parody of the great Bruce Lee film “Enter The Dragon” – see more about that here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/06/03/big-jim-slade-fistfuls-of-yen-its-the-kentucky-fried-movie/

The movie also contains a trailer for the movie “Catholic High School Girls In Trouble!”

The movie trailer is hilarious, and the “Actress” in the trailer is none other that legendary sex kitten Uschi Digard!

She has fond memories of her role in the film, and you can read them here – along with a look at her eclectic movie career!

https://johnrieber.com/2016/04/17/sex-kitten-uschi-digard-bares-her-toy-box-legendary-russ-meyer-star-hilariously-naked-kentucky-fried-movie-cameo/

Comedy comes in all forms – including a genius kung fu action comedy from Hong Kong!

9 – “Kung Fu Hustle”

“Kung Fu Hustle” is a 2004 Hong Kong-Chinese martial arts gangster musical comedy that was directed, co-produced and co-written by Stephen Chow, who also stars!

The trailer alone will blow your mind!

Stephen Chow knocked it out of the park with this classic action/comedy – this is a movie worth finding!

Another Hong Kong action film is on the list – but this one’s not funny – just one of the greatest action movies of all time!

8 – “The Killer”

John Woo blew away audiences with this incredible action thriller starring Chow Yun-Fat.

Here is the original Asian language trailer for this 1989 action masterpiece – trust me, you don’t need english for this:

This, along with John Woo’s “Hard Boiled” and his American film “Face/Off” are a triple bill of action that can’t be topped – click here to see more of Woo’s terrific work:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/06/30/killer-assassins-hard-boiled-killers-death-by-hammer-classic-asian-thrillers/

One of America’s great Directors also set out to make an action classic – and went to the far east for inspiration!

7 – “Kill Bill Vol. 1 & 2”

Can you believe it’s been 14 years since Quentin Taranto unleashed the double-barrelled whammy of “Kill Bill” on us?

Let’s begin with the trailer for part one:

One year later, Tarantino gave us the second half of the story – here is the trailer for “Kill Bill Volume 2”:

Both are great for different reasons, and Tarantino has yet to give us a “combined, added-scenes-and-directors-cut” version of the movie, which has been long rumored. We shall see…did you know where he got the inspiration for Elle Driver, played by Darryl Hannah?

Well, that would be “Artsploitation” legend Christina Lindberg of course! Click here to see her great sexploitation classic that inspired Quentin!

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

“Kill Bill” is full of kung fu and exploitation homages – and who knew these genres better than the iconic “B” movie Director Larry Cohen!

6 – “King Cohen!”

You may not know Director Larry Cohen – but you should! There’s a terrific documentary that tells his amazing story – here is the trailer:

Larry Cohen made such classic exploitation films as “Black Caesar” and “It’s Alive!” Here is a look at all of his great films!

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

Cohen has a great career to be proud of – and here is another Director who has made some of cinema’s wildest adventures, including this recent one:

5 – “Killer Joe”

William Friedkin directed such classic films as “The French Connection”, “The Exorcist” and “To Live And Die In LA” – but this recent outing was one of his best – check out this all-star cast:

The material is dark dark DARK, but the entire cast digs in and delivered a black comedy that was so wild it was rated NC-17!

Read more about the film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/10/the-brilliant-killer-joe-mcconaugheys-hat-trick-plus-friedkins-wang-chung/

Friedkin released his autobiography, and it’s a terrific read as well. Another brilliant Director also has an amazing body of work, including this dark dark DARK comedy with Robert DeNiro:

4 – “The King Of Comedy”

This 1982 film was trashed when released, but is now considered a prescient masterpiece….first, see the trailer:

Robert DeNiro gives a great performance as Rupert Pupkin, a delusional comedian who will do whatever it takes to become famous.

Scorsese’s masterpiece also starred Jerry Lewis as a late night Talk Show Host who meets Pupkin – and everything escalates from there.

In a world of “instant celebrity” – as well as being “Famous for being famous”, this movie, 25 years ago, captured this world before anyone could imagine how real it would become.

There was an anniversary screening lately – and a new blu-ray with tons of great extras – check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/25/the-king-of-comedy-goes-blu-amazing-extras-scorsese-grills-pupkin/

Another legendary Director is next up on the list – Sam Peckinpah directed “The Wild Bunch”, “The Getaway” with Steve McQueen, and this 1975 action thriller starring James Caan and Robert Duvall:

3 – “The Killer Elite”

James Caan is great a government Agent who’s betrayed by a co-worker, Robert Duvall. Check out the vintage trailer:

Duvall and Caan are both great, and there are several terrific action sequences as well – Peckinpah was known for his “ballet of violence” – and you can see more about him here:

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

A step away from Hollywood – very far away from Hollywood – like the middle of the Pacific Ocean!

2 – “Kon-Tiki”

Adventurer Thor Heyerdahl decided to see if South American explorers could have travelled more than 4,000 miles from Peru to settle islands in the South Pacific. So he did it! Here is the trailer:

The Kon-Tiki expedition led by Norwegian explorer and writer Thor Heyerdahl happened in 1947, and the documentary was released in the United States in 1951. The movie won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

It’s a fascinating trip, with footage shot by the team while on the ocean!

Back on dry land, here is my last film with a “K”, and it’s one of the most under-rated comedies ever – about bowling!

1 – “Kingpin”

After “Dumb and Dumber” and “There’s Something About Mary”, the Farrelly Brothers win streak continued with this hilarious 1996 bowling film, starring Woody Harrelson, Randy Quaid and Bill Murray.

Here is the trailer:

Harrelson is Roy Munson, who loses his chance at bowling stardom when he loses his hand!

Redemption comes via Randy Quaid, who plays Ishmael – who is Amish and sneaks away from the farm to bowl.

Ultimately, they go up against champion bowler Ernie McCracken, played with a brilliant deadpan and magical comb-over by Bill Murray.

ESPN Announcer: So Roy, where have you been for the last fifteen years?
Roy: Well, I uh, well, ya see, I uh… Drinking. Lot a drinking.
ESPN Announcer: I see. Well, are you still drinking?
Roy: No. I uh… I put… uh… Why, you buying?

There is SO much to love about “Kingpin”: terrific acting, hilarious set pieces, memorable characters, and of course, BOWLING…see more great bowling films here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/04/14/kingpins-slimeballs-the-dude-lets-go-bowling-in-the-movies/

There is a list of ten great movies that begin with “K” – and of course there are many more…also, if you missed my list of “J” movies, you didn’t see my love for this gem:

Yes, “Jackass!” Hilariously funny and profane – just one of the movies beginning with a “J” – and you can see them all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/14/hey-jackass-movies-with-a-j-have-jaws-for-sushi-john-wick-steve-jobs-show-me-the-j/

I have missed a ton of great movies on my “Movies A-Z” list, like this great film:

That’s right – “Boogie Nights” is one of my all-time favorite movies, but it wasn’t on my “B” list! However, here are the films that DID make my lists of “A-F” movies – check them out here:

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

Let me know your favorite film with a “K”!

As you can see, James Caan didn’t mind being shot up in “The Godfather”, one of the greatest films of all time – and one of ten great movies that began with “G”!

I’ve been counting down the greatest movies from “A-Z”, sharing ten movies from each letter of the alphabet – here is a recap and links to each letter if you want to catch up.

“The Godfather” is of course on the “G” list, and you can click here to see the other nine:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/05/g-is-for-gangsters-gotcha-and-a-b-c-too-my-movie-celebration-continues-with-classic-g-films/

The letter “H” gave me a chance to celebrate one of the greatest action films of all time – but a classic 70’s film with a wickedly sharp script by Paddy Chafesky!

Director John Woo made two the greatest action films of all time: “The Killer” and “Hard-Boiled”, both with Chow Yun-Fat – this image of the Actor holding one of his co-stars from “Hard-Boiled” kicks off ten great movies with an “H” – see the others here, including Paddy Chayefsky’s “The Hospital!”

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/08/hard-boiled-movies-with-an-h-my-a-z-classic-movie-list-continues-with-heartbreak-and-helldrivers/

The letter “I” was full of intrigue – and a very obscure Robert Altman film from the 70’s:

Susannah York starred in Director Robert Altman’s moody thriller “Images” – one of ten great films with an “I” – here are the rest:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/12/wild-movies-with-an-i-these-i-films-are-shocking-sexy-oscar-winners/

“J” is an easy letter for one reason alone – the greatest thriller starring a shark!

Steven Spielberg was having some fun with Bruce the shark on the set of “Jaws”, but the shoot was anything but easy – see more great trivia from “Jaws” and nine other films with a “J” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/14/hey-jackass-movies-with-a-j-have-jaws-for-sushi-john-wick-steve-jobs-show-me-the-j/

I love ribald comedy, and there is a film that begins with the letter “K” that is one of my favorites:

Yes, “Big Jim Slade!”

If you know who this is, then you know one of the funniest films ever made: “Kentucky Fried Movie” is hilarious – and one of ten great “K” movies – click here to see why!

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/19/killer-movies-with-a-k-my-movies-a-z-has-kung-fu-killers-and-catholic-high-school-girls-in-trouble/

Finally, the letter “L” is chock full of classic films, including one of my favorite whodunnits of all time!

An all-star cast delivers a wickedly funny murder mystery thriller from the minds of Composer Stephen Sondheim and Actor Tony Perkins!

“The Last of Shiela” heads up an amazing list of films beginning with “L” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/22/a-massive-list-of-l-movies-my-movies-a-z-hits-the-cinema-motherlode/

If you want to go back further, I also have a “catchup” list of movies from “A-F” as well:

Yes, Frances McDormand wants you to “halt right there” and look at my list of great movies from “A-F” by clicking here:

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

Now that you are caught up, more great letters of the alphabet coming soon – next up, the letter “M” – here’s a sneak peek – stop pointing that knife!

Watch Out For These “O” Movies!

This iconic image is from one of the most imaginative, and darkest movies ever – and of course, it begins with an “O”!

My “Movies A-Z” hits hard right off the top, but don’t worry, there’s plenty of room for 007, Charlton Heston, Jennifer Aniston and “my boy Blue!”

Remember, these aren’t in any order, just a list of my most enjoyable “O” movies.

One of the most intense revenge thrillers of all time gets us started:

10 – “Old Boy”

This 2003 South Korean thriller was directed by Park Chan-wook. It’s the twisted story of a drunken Businessman who wakes up in a locked hotel room – where he is kept for 15 years before being suddenly released! Why? Well, check out the trailer:

The signature sequence in the film is a four minute hallway fight scene – our protagonist armed only with a hammer – and the camera tracks the entire fight without a single edit!

The late film critic Roger Ebert said that “Oldboy” was:

“a powerful film not because of what it depicts, but because of the depths of the human heart which it strips bare”.

Read more about this brilliant film, and other Asian classics, by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/06/30/killer-assassins-hard-boiled-killers-death-by-hammer-classic-asian-thrillers/

Next up, one of three sci-fi films starring the legendary Charlton Heston!

9 – “The Omega Man”

Charlton Heston is “the last man alive” in this classic sci-fi film based on the novel “I Am Legend” by Richard Matheson. Here is the trailer:

Heston chose an african-american love interest in the 1971 film, quite daring for the time. It’s one of three great sci-fi-fi films he made in succession – see the other two here!

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/23/cult-sci-fis-godfather-charlton-heston-omega-man-planet-of-the-apes-soylent-green-is-people/

Legendary Director Sergio Leone made many great films, but one was taken away of him, butchered by the studio, and of course it bombed upon release!

8 – “Once Upon A Time In America”

This 1984 masterpiece was taken away from the Director and drastically re-edited – here is the trailer:

An amazing blu-ray was finally released with the Director’s original cut of the film, which is much more hypnotic – for example, the longer cut begins with a scene in an opium den, as Leone was looking to create something much more hypnotic than just a gangster film…

Look for the blu-ray edition to see the complete Directors Cut!

Speaking of different cuts, try the “unrated” version of this hilarious comedy:

7 – “Old School”

One of the funniest comedies ever, thanks in part to “my boy Blue!”

There is so much to love about “Old School” , like the scene where Will Farrell shoots himself in the neck with a dart gun – check out the trailer:

This is one of the best films about college life – click here to see another one – that makes this a hilarious double bill:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/04/15/sex-togas-bluto-blue-schools-out-for-animal-house-and-old-school/

Director Steven Soderbergh is on a number of my alphabetical lists, for good reason – he has made so many great films – and huge smash hits as well:

6 – “Ocean’s 11”

Soderbergh lined up an amazing cast as he remade one of Frank Sinatra’s biggest hits – but gave hit his own “too cool for school” vibe – check out the trailer:

What a great new “Rat Pack!”

This movie showcased the best of Soderbergh’s filmmaking – an intricate plot and playful characters given a chance to have fun – for example, notice how Brad Pitt eats in so many of his scenes!

Time now to go “O” as in “007”!

5 – “Octopussy”

Roger Moore was on a roll at this time as James Bond 007 – and this is one of the more unique titles in the series – here is the trailer:

Most would consider this a “second tier” 007 film – enjoyable but not quite as good as Moore’s great “The Spy Who Loved Me”.

Roger Moore starred in some of the biggest hits in the 007 series – and he was a class act as well – see more about him here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/05/23/rip-roger-moore-007s-most-charming-james-bond-was-a-true-class-act/

Next up is a terrific , ultra low budget musical that shocked the movie world when it won an Oscar….

4 – “Once”

In 2006, this modest film told the story of a street singer who meets a woman who can play piano, and they make great music tougher – here is the trailer:

The film’s song “Falling Slowly” stunned the Academy Award audience by winning best original song – see more about this terrific film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/19/best-modern-musicals-once-the-commitments-glen-hansards-musical-oscar/

From the sublime to the ridiculous!

3 – “Office Space”

In 1999, Jennifer Aniston was part of a great ensemble – not “Friends” but disgruntled office workers.

Here is the trailer:

Gary Cole was pitch perfect as the “boss from hell” – and Mike Judge’s satire became a cult sensation…

Another cult horror film from the 70’s is coming back again – but nothing will top the original:

2 – “The Omen”

In 1976, this movie shocked audiences as it told the story of a small boy who may be the spawn of Satan!

Here is the trailer:

Legendary Actor Gregory Peck gives gravitas to the horror story, and this movie is beautifully directed by Richard Donner for maximum scares – a real treat.

I end the “O” movies with my second favorite film of all time – a much-neglected masterpiece:

1 – “O Lucky Man!”

Actor Malcolm McDowell exploded onto the film scene with this performances in “If…” and Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange”:

He followed those up in 1973 with a story he conceived – the “Candide” tale of a young coffee salesman – check out the trailer:

This movie is brilliant for so many reasons: an incredible cast, amazingly inventive direction by Lindsay Anderson – who filmed most of the movie’s soundtrack live and shows it in the movie!

Click on my story to read so much more about this movie – and how it inspired a classic “Seinfeld” episode!

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

There you have it – ten great movies with an “O” – and you can click on my blog home page and see the previous films that have been highlighted from “A – N” as well!

Do I Have Your Attention?

Good, because it’s time for another letter, and another great collection of films! My “Movies A-Z” continues with the letter “T”, which has one of the funniest comedies of all time, the great Vincent Price, AND my third favorite film of all!

As always, these are not in any order, just ten great movies to share, but in this case:

“These Go To Eleven!”

10 – “This Is Spinal Tap”

Rob Reiner directed one of the funniest “mockumentaries” of all time, the story of Spinal Tap, “one of England’s loudest bands!”

Christopher Guest, Michael McKean and Harry Shearer are hilarious as Spinal Tap – and you can see from the first ads for the movie that they knew they had a classic.

Here is the original trailer!

“These Go To Eleven!”

Speakers that go to eleven – “one louder” – and album titles that are as funny as they are offensive:

Legend has it that Oasis singer Liam Gallagher thought this was all real – see more great trivia about the film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/02/05/this-is-spinal-tap-greatest-cult-film-worlds-worst-album-covers-terrific-tap-trivia/

Next up is one of my favorite Troma films – a remake of one of Shakespeare’s greatest, written by James Gunn – it’s “no holds Bard!”

9 – “Tromeo & Juliet”

I love Troma for so many reasons, but if you want to see offensive artistry at its best, then this punk version of “Romeo & Juliet” is for you!

The movie is well made, very clever and inventive – after all, it was written by Gunn! It’s just one of my “Tromatic” favorites – you can see them all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/02/11/tromas-top-ten-the-tromatic-classics-unveiled/

In the 70’s, Comic Legend Walter Matthau made a series of great action thrillers, and this may be my favorite:

8 – “The Taking Of Pelham One Two Three”

Robert Shaw and Hector Elizondo are part of a gang of crooks who hold a New York subway train hostage – here is the great original movie trailer:

Matthau is the Subway Cop who has to negotiate with the crooks – this is vastly superior to the recent remake, because Matthau brings a world-weariness to the role – and the script is razor sharp.

See more about this terrific 70’s film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/02/16/classic-70s-action-crime-thriller-double-feature/

I love world cinema, especially because some of the most innovative movies are being made – like this action/romance/western from Thailand:

7 – “Tears Of The Black Tiger”

This 2000 film from Thailand is part parody/part homage to the melodramatic films of Douglas sir in the 50’s – and was screened at the Cannes Film Festival – here is the trailer:

This is a beautiful – and violent – movie, incredibly imaginative and worth a look!

Speaking of violent, how about a darkly black comedy/horror gem from the world’s greatest horror Actor – Vincent Price?

6 – “Theater Of Blood”

The legendary Actor has a blast playing a failed Actor who take bloody revenge on his critics! Here is the trailer:

Not only Does Price has a blast, but that’s Diana Rigg next to him! She has said that this is her favorite film of all – read more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/06/an-afro-tastic-vincent-price-kills-his-critics-in-theater-of-blood-diana-riggs-favorite-performance/

Time now for one of the great movie comedies of all time – thanks to Cameron Diaz:

5 – “There’s Something About Mary”

In 1994, “Mary” wowed audiences around the world for some of the funniest – and most raucous scenes ever put on screen – here is the trailer:

Ben Stiller and Matt Dillon are great in this film, and The Farrelly Brothers have never been better – a classic movie that is hilariously funny every time I watch it!

The next movie on my “T”T list has a very important question to ask:

“Which Is The Virgin? Which Is The Vampire?”

4 – “Twins Of Evil”

How can you possibly know – when they are twins!

This 1971 Hammer Studios horror classic stars Peter Cushing – and two Playboy Playmate Twins! Here is the trailer:

Hammer Studios wanted to be more contemporary, so this film has more nudity and blood, all part of an erotic trilogy that you need to check out:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/10/03/naked-vampires-dirty-dracula-cult-erotic-halloween-horror/

Next up is a horror film that bombed on release but is now considered a classic:

3 – “The Thing”

In 1982, Director John Carpenter’s remake bombed – considered too gory for mass audiences – here is the trailer:

I love this film’s tagline:

“Man Is The Warmest Place To Hide.”

Kurt Russell is terrific, and the film has amazing set pieces – click here to see more:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/26/the-thing-shocks-halloween-horror-day-26-man-is-the-warmest-place-to-hide/

Matt Damon is next on the list – playing a very “talented” psychopath:

2 – “The Talented Mr. Ripley”

This 1999 psychological thriller was directed by Anthony Minghella. Matt Damon is terrific as Tom Ripley, who befriends Jude Law and Gwyneth Paltrow in Italy – while harboring hidden secrets – here is the trailer:

This is a great thriller, with topnotch supporting performances by Cate Blanchett and Phillip Seymour Hoffman – I can watch this film over and over again…

Speaking of that – here is one of the greatest films ever made – one that I have seen dozens of times:

1 – “Taxi Driver”

Director Martin Scorsese and Screenwriter Paul Schrader made a masterpiece in 1976 – the story of a lonely Taxi Driver named Travis Bickle.

Iconic dialogue, incredible performances and a shocking script make this a masterpiece.

Here is the original trailer for the film, basically introducing Scorsese and DeNiro to mainstream audiences!

Taxi Driver (1976)
Directed by Martin Scorsese
Shown from left on the set: Jodie Foster, Robert De Niro, director Martin Scorsese

Jodie Foster was oscar-nominated along with DeNiro and Scorsese, and the film was nominated for Best Picture – a searing look at a city coming apart during a political campaign. Albert Brooks and Cybil Sheppard also star…

“Travis Bickle” just turned 40 years old, and there was an incredible reunion screening in New York:

There is so much more to share about this film – see it 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/

There you have it – ten great movies that begin with the letter “T”! Let me know your favorites!

“American Made” Is Latest Tom Cruise Box Office Disappointment…

I am a Tom Cruise fan. He’s made a lot of great films, and is always willing to put it all out there – see “Magnolia” and “Tropic Thunder” as two examples, but his recent films are going the wrong direction at the box office.

“American Made” Opens Soft…

Tom Cruise’s latest film opened in the US yesterday. Based on weekend trends, “American Made” is on track to be Cruise’s worst opener in decades. The film is looking to hit $15-million in its opening weekend, and may not even open at #1, losing out to last week’s “Kinsgman” sequel and the fourth weekend of “It.”

Is it his fault? The film was over 80% on Rotten Tomatoes, which is a aggregator of reviews – so the quality of the movie isn’t the issue. The issue is this: the movie business has changed, and there are no “movie stars” any more.

More than ever, movies are sold as “events”, with superheroes leading the charge. Films that depend on a “movie star” to sell them are struggling…

Deadline.com has this great box office analysis this morning about Tom Cruise’s recent films:

“It’s his lowest opening in close to five years, since Jack Reacher‘s $15M. Though it’s a great movie, American Made is coming in lower than last autumn’s critical displeasure Jack Reacher 2 which opened to more than its first chapter ($22.9M to $15.2M) and fizzled out with a 2.6x multiple ($58.7M). That’s likely the same leg factor here. Uni is hoping American Made legs out like Girl on the Train, but that’s a completely different movie altogether with a higher ($24.5M) opening, and a bestselling piece of chick lit that drove women to the theater. At the end, Girl earned a 3.1x multiple or $75.4M domestic. American Made nee Mena is original IP based on Gary Spinelli’s spec script which Uni shelled out $1M for three years ago. Outside of his Mission: Impossible films, Cruise tends to average roughly a $22M domestic B.O. start over the last 10 years, and American Made is shockingly under that despite the fact that it’s such a fantastic rebound for him quality wise since last June’s disaster The Mummy.”

A few years back, I looked at his sci-fi thriller “Oblivion” – noticeable in that it failed to gross $100-million at the US box office – the beginning of his downward box office trend.

You can see more of that movie’s box office performance here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/08/edge-of-oblivion-tom-cruises-superstar-swan-dive/

Since then, Cruise has starred in a number of movies such as “Jack Reacher”, which as noted by Deadline, barely grossed $50-million in the US:

This summer, Cruise starred in the huge box office bomb “The Mummy”, which failed to resuscitate a worn-out horror franchise:

Cruise wasn’t alone. You can read about all of this summer’s box office bombs here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/12/bombs-away-the-mummy-unwraps-another-2017-summer-movie-disaster-tom-cruse-fires-box-office-blanks/

Cruise hasn’t made a romantic comedy in years – he has chosen to act in thrillers and action movies – and his “Mission:Impossible” franchise is still going strong.

But movie audiences have rejected all of our traditional action stars recently:

Matt Damon’s action epic “The Great Wall” fizzled upon release, and some of the latest films from Keanu Reeves have gone straight to video:

I posted a story about this terrific kung fu film, directed by Reeves – and how the future of film is on demand in your home more than ever – check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/10/07/james-franco-keanu-reeves-ondemand-the-new-future-of-film/

“American Made” got great reviews, and I hope the box office turns around!

Rock It, Elvis! Rock It!

As you can see, Elvis and his pelvis are VERY excited about the ten films I am about to share with you! What could go wrong?

Well, Patty Duke needs her “dolls”, because this list has some of the greatest cult films of all time!

My countdown of “Movies A-Z” is now on the letter “V”, which is full of amazing performances, campy cult films, and Elvis Presley as well!

Let’s get started with one of the greatest “camp” films of all time, a cult classic based on a provocative best seller!

Original Cinema Quad Poster – Movie Film Posters

10 – “Valley Of The Dolls”

What a way to start! This 1967 camp classic was based on the best-selling novel the year before by Jacqueline Susann…the story of young women making their way through a “far out” Hollywood!

Here is the trailer:

Patty Duke chews the scenery Neely O’ Hara, who succumbs to the temptations of Hollywood. This is the film that gave us the character of “Ted Casablanca”, a name used years later by the E! Entertainment Columnist.

Of course, a sequel of inevitable, but it wasn’t the sequel anyone saw coming!

That’s right, Softcore Director Russ Meyer teamed up on a sequel with Roger Ebert – YES, ROGER EBERT!

Click here to see how it ended!

https://johnrieber.com/2013/10/08/roger-ebert-teams-up-with-russ-meyer-russ-and-roger-go-beyond/

Exploitation cinema may have nudity and adult situations, but that doesn’t mean they are classic films!

9 – “The Vampire Lovers”

Hammer Studios decided to take a more “adult” approach to horror films int eh early 70’s, and this great cult film is the result!

Here is the trailer:

This is a great, atmospheric horror film, part of a great “Hammer Horror” trilogy – see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/10/13/bloody-vampires-lesbian-lovers-naked-halloween-horror-classic-erotic-hammer-time/

Since we are talking Vampires, here is one more great erotic horror film from that era:

8 – “Vampyros Lesbos”

This 1971 film told the story of a Vampire temptress who favored the blood of another woman! Soledad Miranda became a star because of her performance – see the trailer here:

Miranda’s fame was short-lived, however, due to a tragic car accident. She the story of her biggest film – and her sad end – here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/05/19/legendary-sex-kitten-soledad-miranda-ecstasy-vampyros-lesbos-new-cult-films-releases/

Time to take a break a let “the King” entertain us!

7 – “Viva Las Vegas!”

How can this go wrong? Elvis! Ann-Margret! THAT SONG! Let’s check out the trailer!

Elvis made movies with thin plots, but he more than made up for it when he had a blast like this! And Ann-Margret may have been one of the 60’s most popular sex kittens, but she was amazingly talented as well!

This movie is a lot of fun, but if you want to know more about the incredible Ann Margret, click only story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/23/hollywoods-legendary-sex-kitten-ann-margret-rock-operas-baked-beans-elvis/

Now, one of Paul Newman’s greatest performances:

6 – “The Verdict”

The great Director Sidney Lumet made this film, about an alcoholic Attorney who gets the case of a lifetime. Here is the trailer:

The film was nominated as Best Picture of 1982, and Lumet and Newman were both nominated as well. This is a great legal thriller, so check it out!

Now, time for a movie that was NEVER destined to be oscar-worthy, but boy is it entertaining!

5 – “Vixen!”

Russ Meyer made a name for himself with such classic films as “Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” In 1968, he pushed the boundaries of cinema with “Vixen!”

Here is the trailer:

Meyer loved buxom women, but all of his films starred empowered women who kicked ass – here is a look at all of his movies:

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

My wife Alex mentioned to me that I had to include her favorite “movie with a V”:

4 – “Vision Quest!”

Matthew Modine stars in this terrific 1985 coming of age story set in Spokane, Washington.

Matthew Modine and Frank Jasper wrestle in Vision Quest.

Matthew Modine stars as a high school wrestler with girls on his mind. Here is the trailer:

Linda Fiorentino stars as the girl who captures his imagination. It’s a really good movie, with terrific performances as well.

Speaking of classic performances:

3 – “Vertigo”

One of Alfred Hitchcock’s greatest films, and an example of what a great Actor James Stewart was as well. Here is the trailer for this masterpiece:

The film was shot in San Francisco, and the city’s iconic Cost tower is seen many times…here is a look at this iconic tower:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/09/walking-up-coit-tower-alfred-hitchcock-loved-san-franciscos-iconic-400-step-tower/

In the early 70’s, many filmmakers took on the establishment with low-budget films that tackled the Vietnam war, racism and police brutality…this film tackled them all:

2 – “Vanishing Point”

If you haven’t seen this counter-culture film, you are missing out on a wild, wild ride…here is the trailer:

I posted a story about this film, and the “cameo” role to top them all: “naked girl on motorcycle!”

See more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/08/24/legendary-naked-motorcycle-starlet-hollywood-sex-symbol-gilda-texter-fascinating-nude-70s-movie-icon/

Finally, my list of “V” movies ends with visionary Director Takashi Miike, best known for this cerebral horror film “Audition” – but has made some of the most provocative films ever!

1 – “Visitor Q”

Almost impossible to describe, Miike’s film take viewers on a surreal ride.

Here is the wild wild wild trailer:

Miike has made a number of raw, edgy films like “Ichi The Killer”, but also mainstream films like “Thirteen Assassins” as well – here are some of his best:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/07/japans-cinematic-wild-man-the-visionary-movies-of-takashi-miike-ichi-the-killer-audition/

So take some “Dolls” and dig into these films!

RIP Johnny Hallyday, The “French Elvis!”

One of the most iconic singers in France has died at the age of 74. Legendary performer Johnny Hallyday died of cancer; he had an incredible musical career, with 18 platinum albums and more than 110-million albums sold.

Along with being a legendary singer, Hallyday acted in one of the best action revenge thriller from Hong Kong!

“Vengeance” is a great 2009 thriller film directed by Johnnie To. Johnny Hallyday stars as a French chef and former assassin whose daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren are attacked by a gang of Triads.

He travels to Macau on a quest for revenge – it’s a great thriller and Hallyday is terrific. Here is the trailer:

“Vengeance” is a classic Asian revenge thriller – here are some more that you might like:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/27/eye-popping-extreme-cinema-cold-fish-bloody-vampires-vengeance/

RIP Johnny Hallyday!

Start Your Engines!

It’s the year of the woman, and how about these empowered female action stars?

Meet “The Villainess!”

One of the best action films of all time just happens to star a woman!

“The Villainess” is the 2017 South Korean action film directed by Jung Byung-gil, starring Kim Ok-bin.

Trained to be a deadly Assassin, Sook-hee performs her duties for ten years, then starts a new life…but you know what they say, it’s tough to put old habits behind you!

Here is the trailer:

What’s truly amazing is a motorcycle chase and samurai sword battle – happening at the same time!

While in the US, female action stars aren’t the norm, Asia has a rich tradition of women going toe to toe with men – and winning!

Yes, “The Machine Girl” is one of those wild and crazy Asian cult films that I have posted about before – and don’t forget “Helldriver” as well!

The films are wild, bloody and full of nonstop action – all led by empowered women who aren’t afraid to fight back!

You can see some of the best ones here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/05/01/female-ninja-warriors-extreme-asian-cinema-updated/

The tradition began in the 70’s, with such classic “pinky violence” films as these:

It’s a unique style of filmmaking and storytelling, and there are some terrific box sets that showcase the best – see the trailers here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/04/30/amazing-pinky-violence-cult-cinema-female-prisoner-scorpion-incredible-j-sploitation-cult-classics/

One last genre involves over-the-top stories with wildly inventive filmmaking, like this:

“Killer” Sushi!

That’s right, a film about sushi that eats YOU! And of course, only a young female Sushi Chef is smart enough to fight back…see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/01/28/killer-sushi-toilet-zombies-karaoke-terror-tasty-japanese-exploitation/

Let me know how many of these you’ve seen!

Talk About A Tough Lady!

Dressed fully in black and carrying a sharp knife, this is one of the greatest action heroes that America’s NEVER HEARD OF!

Time to share a “J-sploitation” film series that combines action, violence and “women in prison” genres to terrific effect!

This classic Japanese exploitation series follows the adventures of Female Prisoner #701: Scorpion!

“Female Prisoner 701: Scorpion!”

Japanese star Meiko Kaji is Scorpion, and as you can imagine, the movie follows her travails inside a prison!

Check out the great trailer!

Here’s how one website described it:

“Female Prisoner #701: Scorpion contains everything you will find in the remainder of the series, so if you don’t like what you see, venture no further. We are talking soft-core couplings, lesbianism, slapstick prison wardens administering gleeful punishment and lots and lots of blood, usually shooting out jet-stream style from freshly severed limbs. But, seriously, what’s not to like about that?”

“Female Prisoner Scorpion: Jailhouse 41!”

As much fun as “Female Prisoner 701: Scorpion” is, it’s just the beginning!

The second film in the series is considered by many to be the definitive entry. In “Female Prisoner Scorpion: Jailhouse 41” has our heroine recaptured and placed in solitary confinement, before she plans an escape through the bowels of the prison – with six other inmates in tow!

Here is the trailer:

One website claimed that “Jailhouse 41” has even more nudity, gratuitous sadism, acid-tinged fantasy sequences – plus musical numbers and extreme martial arts as well!

Scorpion Gets “Armed!”

Next up is the third film in the series – “Female Prisoner 701 Scorpion: Beast Stable” – as our heroine is free but on the run from the law again…

Here is the classic trailer for the film, which includes her running with a severed arm!

Yes, A SEVERED ARM!

This is wildly inventive moviemaking, operating under the classic exploitation rules: these movies must feature lots of action, nudity, and over-the-top mayhem!

A Final “Grudge!”

The final film in the series, “Female Prisoner Scorpion #701: Grudge Song” has a different Director, and shows a gentler side of our Heroine…and if you want to see all four in all-new remastered editions with tons of great extras, check this out!

Arrow Video is releasing a new blu-ray box set with all four films and tons of great extras, so you can dive into the deep end of the “J-sploitation” pool!

Japanese “pinky” films were wildly popular in the 1970’s, and are legendary for their portrayal of “tough girls” in dangerous situations:

You can see some of the best of the genre here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/05/31/mutant-girls-pinky-violence-sex-fury-and-lady-snowblood-too-japanese-sexploitation-lives/

Even though these films are from the 70’s, the modern era of cinema in Japan includes the genre of “J-sploitation” as well!

One of the more recent films had a very controversial “jiggle” promo, which you can see here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/11/the-bikini-game-controversial-japanese-jiggle-movie-promo-new-j-sploitation-film/

The genre is also tongue in cheek, or in this case….

Yes, “Zombie Ass: Toilet Of The Dead” is a classic example of the “J-sploitation” genre, see it here!

https://johnrieber.com/2012/11/06/zombie-ass-yes-japans-wacky-cinema-is-calling-what-the/

You can also check out a ton of great new japanese horror films as well:

This is an amazing genre of film, see the best here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/13/yakuza-zombies-bloody-asian-halloween-horror-2015-shocking-japanese-exploitation/

Leave me a message and let me know if you’ve seen any of the “Scorpion” films!

Killer Frogs And Vincent Price, Too!

Behold the greatest single movie poster image of all time. Yes, even frogs can say “enough is enough!”

It’s #31daysofHalloween, a perfect season for movies that are over the top, campy and fun as well as horrific – I mean, how can you not love a horror film with this poster:

That is, for me, one of the most perfect movie posters of all time: that is one evil Frog! The poster captures perfectly what you can expect form the film – good horrific fun, and it is just one of the campy horror treasures I have for you today – let’s begin with the master, the legend – the AFRO:

Vincent Price Enters The “Theater Of Blood!”

Yes, everyone’s favorite Horror Actor, Vincent Price, had a great run of campy horror films the 70’s – like this one:

In “The Abominable Dr. Phibes”, he plays a Doctor obsessed with getting revenge for his wife’s death…and then there was this classic:

Yes, an Actor decided to seek revenge on all of his critics, and Diana Rigg afro’d up as well – she has called it her favorite film of all – read more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/06/an-afro-tastic-vincent-price-kills-his-critics-in-theater-of-blood-diana-riggs-favorite-performance/

And now, let’s go to a type of horror film that’s been “gnawing” at me lately:

Zombeavers!

Yes, what a great campy horror movie for #31daysofhorror…”Zombeavers” is EXACTLY what you think it is…and exactly what it should be! Bloody horror fun with zombie beavers!

It’s the genre of killer animals – rodents really – and it’s a hilariously over the top genre epitomized by the new classic “Zombeavers”, and of course, “Frogs” as well!

Read all about these “killer animal” films by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/02/18/zombeavers-the-latest-in-killer-animal-movies-frogs-ants-and-more-campy-horror/

Finally, one more campy bit of horror to share:

Old Lady Horror!

Yes, you may not be aware, but this is one of my favorite horror genres: the killer grandma! And nobody did it better than Actress Shelley Winters!

Yep, Shelley Winters was just one legendary Actress who turned to campy horror late in their career…along with Ruth Gordon, Bette Davis and even Debbie Reynolds! You can read all about the genre of “Old Lady Horror” by clicking on my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/09/old-lady-horror-crazy-ladies-chew-up-the-screen/

So there you have it, some good campy Shocktober fun for you…

Happy Halloween!

Godzilla Holds A Press Conference!

I find this “What The Friday” to be hilarious: new Godzilla action figures depict the iconic Monster holding a press conference to apologize for his actions!

As Mediate.com reports:

“Godzilla’s Amazon store now features movie monsters such as Godzilla, Mecha Godzilla, Ghidra, and Hedorah. The set of four monster figure keychains, whose names mean “acts of destruction,” “acts of imitating,” “acts of invasion,” and “smog,” are placed in front of little podiums with microphones and messages with their respective apology explanations.”

Other figures int he series also are depicted by microphones facing the press as well!

This Godzilla keychain set is for sale on Amazon for $125 a piece. As Mediate points out:

“Most of the fictional monster characters in the franchise are known for mass destruction, but some, such as the benevolent Mothra, defend the earth.”

However, one Monster refused to apologize to Japan:

That’s right, you can see this tweet that points out that Hedorah refused to apologize for anything!

I think I need these right now!

This is exactly what I love about “What The Friday” – stuff that makes me smile, shake my head and laugh about he world we live in – bravo to the manufacturer for these “contrite” Monsters!

Mediate had the story, but the great images were also shared on the terrific Twitter site you can see here:

@Mondomascots

My wife and I had our own chance to hang out with Godzilla in Tokyo:

Yes, a hotel in Tokyo turned itself in a shrine for Godzilla when we were there – look at him hanging out on the hotel’s outdoor deck:

The lobby was filled with great Godzilla memorabilia, which you can see here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/07/23/godzilla-is-back-godzilla-resurgence-attacks-japan-i-go-inside-tokyos-godzilla-hotel/

And if you missed last week’s “What The Friday”, then you missed out on a refreshing new soft drink from Japan:

Crack Open A Crab Cola!

Yes, a new cola that is spider crab-flavored! Taste it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2019/03/08/ready-to-crack-open-a-crab-cola-what-the-friday-wild-new-cola-flavor-is-crustacean-based/

Let me know if you will be ordering these Godzilla action figures!