Spoiler Alert: The Badass Book of Movie Plots
I love movies, but I'll be the first one to tell you that I haven't seen nearly as many movies as other cinephiles, like Roger Ebert. Or my brother, Ryan.
Even stuck in quarantine - the perfect time to indulge in movie marathons - I find the thought of filling all of the gaps in my cinematic knowledge a bit overwhelming. That's why I'm forever grateful to our friends at Laurence King Publishing, the distributor of Little White Lies Presents: The Movie Quiz Book, for sending me Spoiler Alert! The Badass Book of Movie Plots.
Packed with imagery and comic book animations to mimic the movie-going experience, Spoiler Alert! acts as an entertaining visual dictionary of the different types of film languages and Hollywood clichés. Spoiler Alert! celebrates Hollywood film-making in all its formulaic and predictable glory!
Spoiler Alert! takes 38 movie subgenres and distills each down into a single template that presents a hilariously satirical hybrid for each one. Detailed illustrations reveal what makes them so recognizable – the plots, the key lines of dialogue, the essential visuals, the crucial characters, and even the indispensable props. Those predictable character archetypes we all know and love? They’re covered.
Film subgenres include:
- ‘Slasher Film’
- ‘Showbiz Drama’
- ‘Teen Sex Comedy’
- ‘Inspirational Teacher Drama’
- ‘Gangster Film’
- ‘Superhero Origin Film’
- ‘Heist Movie’
- ‘Prison Drama’
- ‘Animated Family Film’
- ‘Martial Arts’
- ‘Jungle Exploration Drama’
Looking to pass the time while quarantined and learn some interesting facts about the movies you love and the movies you've yet to see? Spoiler Alert! is the book for you. Perfect for casual film fans, screenwriters, bad screenwriters, film buffs, cinephiles and their friends, especially while stuck in quarantine!
Spoiler Alert! The Badass Book of Movie Plots is now available to purchase through LaurenceKing.com.
Behind the Score of 'Stuffed' with Composer Ben Lovett
Award-winning composer Ben Lovett (The Ritual, Synchronicity) lends his creative vision and talents to Stuffed, a documentary on the art of taxidermy. Directed by Erin Derham, Stuffed is an intimate look into the niche world of taxidermists – or "3D wildlife artists" as some like to be called. Surrounded by beautiful animals from parrots to polar bears, Stuffed intentionally sets out to debunk the myth of a taxidermist's fascination with death; in fact, most will say they got into the business because of their passion for life, a love of nature, and the dedication to preserving its beauty.
"It should feel like a trip to the museum for your ears."
It took just over two years to bring the sounds of Stuffed to the big screen, with Lovett using a fairytale-like quality to enhance the film's most notable moments. Plunky strings and sweeping violins are just some of the diverse instrumentation that highlights the eccentric nature of the film and its subjects. In this exclusive behind-the-scenes clip, Lovett explains his inspiration for the composition, the process of bringing his ideas to life, and how he captures the spirit and individuality of the characters, and animals, onscreen.
Stuffed the film is available to rent on Amazon Prime, and the soundtrack is now streaming and available for purchase from Lakeshore Records.
Stuffed website - http://www.stuffedfilm.com/
Stuffed soundtrack - https://orcd.co/stuffedscore
Lakeshore Records - https://lakeshorerecords.
Ben Lovett's website - http://benlovett.com/
'Blow The Man Down' is a Femme Focused Musical Noir
It's Big Little Lies meets Fargo in the indie film Blow the Man Down, a unique musical noir now streaming on Amazon Prime.
Writer/directors Bridget Savage Cole and Danielle Krudy creatively combine Shakespearean-like musical moments with cold-blooded murder in this humble drama, which currently sits at 100% on Rotten Tomatoes (as of noon today). Anchored by strong performances from its stacked cast, Blow the Man Down is a great choice if you are looking for a cinematic escape which, let's face it, we could all use right about now.
Two sisters from the small town of Easter Cove, Maine are blindsided after the death of their mother and overwhelmed with unexpected bills and responsibilities. Burying one body is hard enough, and neither Mary Beth (Morgan Saylor) nor Priscilla Connolly (Sophie Lowe) could have foreseen having to not just bury, but also conceal, the death of another, after encountering a shady guy at a bar and declining his sexual advances. Fearing for her life, Mary Beth brutally takes him out with a weapon that is ironically readily available in their small fishing town: a harpoon. Enlisting help from her sister to dispose of the body, the duo questions whether or not they've successfully covered their tracks as police, neighbors and more begin to investigate.
Blow the Man Down is full of secrets, heightened by the surreal elements. Similar to the Icelandic eco-drama Woman at War, a choir of fisherman acting as Shakespearean muses interject old-time chants and songs between scenes, signaling ominous times ahead. Saylor and Lowe create compelling tension and combined with performances from veterans Margo Martindale and June Squibb, their collective efforts make this female-focused dark comedy an enthralling watch.
BLOW THE MAN DOWN (2020)
Starring Morgan Saylor, Sophie Lowe, Margo Martindale
Directed by Bridget Savage Cole, Danielle Krudy
Written by Bridget Savage Cole, Danielle Krudy
Distributed by Amazon Studios. 90 minutes.
https://youtu.be/uWM1U_kd0rE
Pete Davidson Stoner Comedy 'Big Time Adolescence' Now Playing on Hulu
The Pete Davidson-starring comedy Big Time Adolescence was surrounded by hype leading up to its debut at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival. The film, which was described as a modern-day John Hughes movie by director Jason Orley, went dormant after its festival run only to make its resurgence now, a full year later. In perhaps perfect timing with society being told to self-quarantine amid the COVID-19 outbreak and stream films from home, Big Time Adolescence is a carefree coming of age comedy that will hopefully bring a smile to your face during this time of heightened stress and uncertainty.
To skip to our video review of Big Time Adolescence, click here.
Big Time Adolescence: It’s funny: humans have been growing up for a really long time, but somehow we still suck at it. Just look at sixteen-year-old Mo (Griffin Gluck). He’s bright enough and comes from a good family, yet his best friend is … Zeke (Pete Davidson). Yeah, that Zeke—the aggressively unmotivated college dropout who used to date Mo’s older sister. Mo’s well-meaning dad (Jon Cryer) is less-than-thrilled by this state of affairs. His sister? Woof. So instead of spending his days readying himself for adulthood, young Mo is getting a very different sort of schooling. Zeke favors a nontraditional style with practicals in dealing, partying, and ghosting. Academia this ain’t.
BIG TIME ADOLESCENCE (2020)
Starring Griffin Gluck, Pete Davidson, Jon Cryer
Directed by Jason Orley
Written by Jason Orley
Distributed by Hulu. 91 minutes. Streaming on Hulu.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3PcDo4YcnY
Holistic Vet Care is The Future in 'The Dog Doc'
Why wouldn't we want to treat our pets with the same care and urgency as ourselves?
That's the question raised in the documentary The Dog Doc, a fascinating look at the benefits of alternative medicine in the veterinary field. The naturopathic wellness industry is booming, and regardless of where you stand on the ideology of Gwyneth Paltrow and Goop, there is no denying that what was once considered "quack" science, like acupuncture and supplements, can heal our bodies in tremendous ways, and that includes the furry bodies of man's best friend.
Smith Ridge Veterinary Center's founding doctor, Dr. Marty Goldstein, is a pioneer in this unchartered (and often balked at) territory. His passion for pets is undeniable as he coordinates a new animal-themed pin on his monogrammed turtlenecks daily, and joins his team of equally passionate doctors to willingly take on pets with hopeless, terminal cases from all over the world. Using a holistic approach that combines conventional and alternative medicines to tackle the root causes of problems and not just the side effects, Dr. Goldstein gives his four-legged patients a fighting chance to not only survive but thrive.
Dr. Goldstein doesn't guarantee success; in fact, the documentary doesn't shy away from showing the natural complications that come from a terminal illness. It profiles a handful of dogs, including Waffles, Scooby, and more, as their distraught owners go through the unbearable process of diagnosing their pet along with the relief in finally getting an answer. Dr. Goldstein does so much more than prescribe medications and supplements; he promotes an alternative, healthier lifestyle that genuinely focuses on pets' quality of life.
The documentary, directed by Cindy Meehl, reveals that out of all the veterinary clinics in the United States, only 5% of veterinarians offer the type of integrative care Dr. Goldstein practices. "I'm not anti-vaccine, I'm pro-sanity," he confidently expresses at one point in the film. The Dog Doc exposes a whole new process of thinking when it comes to the treatment and care of our beloved pets, and is a must-watch for animal lovers and progressive thinkers alike.
THE DOG DOC (2020)
Starring Marty Goldstein, Jennifer Lenarz-Salcedo, Jaqueline Ruskin
Directed by Cindy Meehl
Distributed by FilmRise. 102 minutes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6_20gxX9vI
'Saint Frances' Review: A Realistic Look at Female Empowerment
In the first quarter of the 2020 film season, there have already been a handful of films that have commented on the complicated topic of abortion and the residual emotional turmoil that follows.
Premature, Never Rarely Sometimes Always, and Saint Frances are, individually, compelling stories about three women's particular journeys. But together, they act as a socio and political cinematic revolution. The taboo surrounding abortion is becoming lessened, and films like these are opening up the conversation for women to feel safe and, more importantly, seen. Screenwriter and actor Kelly O'Sullivan vulnerably shares her experience and life story in the indie darling Saint Frances, in theaters today.
O'Sullivan plays Bridget, a 34-year-old woman who finds herself stuck. Her current relationship with a younger man (who is emotionally mature) provides some sense of security, but her new job as a nanny proves more difficult than expected. Bridget doesn't have the maternal gene, and acting as a guardian to the outspoken and mischievous six-year-old Frances (Ramona Edith-Williams) is challenging. Her frustration and desperation reach their peak when Bridget finds out that she's pregnant, and decides that an abortion is the right decision for her. As we all know, "right" doesn't necessarily mean "easy," and as Bridget struggles to make sense of her situation, she finds compassion, acceptance, and love through her growing friendship with Ramona.
Director Alex Thompson and Kelly O'Sullivan have collaborated seamlessly to create a powerful portrait of a young woman's struggle without making her the victim of her own life. We empathize with Bridget's situation and are amazed by her strength and conviction to keep going. Replaying her past onscreen must've been a delicate and cathartic journey, and O'Sullivan nails the part of Bridget perfectly. Not to be overlooked is firecracker Ramona Edith-Williams, whose performance can only be described as a revolution.
Saint Frances is an excellent reminder that everyone's path is different. Societal expectations shouldn't define your own life choices. Bridget made a decision that was right for Bridget, and we should all remember that when it comes to our own lives.
In 'Burden', Inspired by True Events, a Klansman Seeks Redemption
Burden debuted on the big screen two years ago at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival and despite being officially released in a new decade, its message is still as timely as ever.
Oscar-nominated filmmaker Robbie Brenner (Dallas Buyers Club) and writer/director Andrew Heckler's Southern drama tells the incredible true story of an ex-Klansman who, with the influence of his girlfriend and the town's local reverend, is forced to overcome his own racism and face his disgraceful past. It can be argued that everyone deserves a second chance, including those who we may not think deserve it, and Burden is a testament to the belief that people can change when surrounded by unconditional love.
It's 1996 and a motley crew of people are preparing to open a new tourist attraction in their rural South Carolina town; curated and operated by Tom Griffin (Tom Wilkinson), the revealing of this "Redneck KKK Museum" hits like a punch to the gut. Racism still operates throughout the bigoted town, with Mike Burden (Garrett Hedlund) at the forefront of the organization's next-generation leaders. The brotherhood of the KKK had been his whole life, so the last thing he expected was to fall in love with Judy (Andrea Riseborough), a young mother, who would force him to choose between his relationship with the Klan or her heart.
As Mike struggles with this decision internally, on the surface he is still very combative. His behavior catches the attention of Reverend Kennedy (Forest Whitaker), who sees Mike as a lost boy and is determined to help him work through his destructive past. Reverend Kennedy reminds his skeptical congregation that only love can drive out hate, a nice message in theory, but difficult to put into practice when the person you are asked to unconditionally love has threatened to kill your community. Reverend Kennedy's words ruminate within Mike, who slowly begins to let his guard down in order to let the light, and love, in.
A hard-hitting companion piece to another recent Neo-Nazi true-life adaptation, Skin, Burden is a fascinating retelling of Michael Burden's life. Fueled by a powerhouse performance from Garrett Hedlund, he seamlessly embodies the quirky mannerisms and Southern drawl of the real Mr. Burden. He's a character whose philosophy we can't understand yet still sympathize with his struggle to leave the familiar for the unknown. Andrea Riseborough brings compassion to her confident portrayal of Judy, a strong woman whose sense of justice and self-respect ultimately saved Mike Burden's life. Unsurprisingly, Forest Whitaker commands every scene; his delivery of Reverend Kennedy's words of optimism is both inspiring and soul-shaking. Usher also makes an appearance as Mike's childhood best friend, a fun addition to a solid cast. Usher also makes an appearance as Mike's childhood best friend, a fun addition to a solid cast.
Ultimately, the story of Burden is one of redemption, of forgiveness, and the power of unconditional love.
BURDEN (2020)
Starring Garrett Hedlund, Forest Whitaker, Tom Wilkinson, Andrea Riseborough
Directed by Andrew Heckler
Written by Andrew Heckler
Distributed by 101 Studios. 129 minutes. Opening this Friday in select theaters, including ArcLight Hollywood and AMC Century City.
'Premature' Shows Young Love at the Peak and Demise of a Relationship
A two-time winner at this year's Film Independent Spirit Awards (Someone the Watch Award, John Cassavetes Award), Premature is a poignant portrayal of young love at the peak and demise of a relationship.
Directed by Rashaad Ernesto Green, Premature will transport you back to the very moment you felt sparks fly between a loved one, igniting both the butterflies in your stomach when the times were good and the pit in the same spot when things went south. The beauty of this film, in particular, is the delicate way in which these emotions are felt, worked through, and expressed through art and poetry.
Co-writer and lead Zora Howard plays Ayanna, a teenager enjoying her last summer in New York City with friends before attending out of state school in the fall. Unexpectedly, she meets and falls for Isaiah (Joshua Boone), whose persistence to date her eventually pays off. The duo quickly becomes inseparable, growing and learning from each other as they come of age together, even if only just for a few weeks. A fear of commitment followed by an unexpected pregnancy tarnishes their relationship that began as simple and pure, forcing Zora to make grown-up decisions despite being just a kid herself. To cope, she pours her emotions into a journal, which becomes full of beautiful and heartbreaking poems about the girl she used to know.
Rashaad Ernesto Green captures the fleeting moments of young love so beautifully; the first date that lasts for hours and the many firsts of getting to know someone among them. The fragile piano score adds to the film's delicacy and somberness, a beautiful accompaniment to a layered story. Adding another powerful moment to Premature's entity is one of the closing songs, performed live, with the sharply-felt lyrics “We were too young to live this old.” A perfectly put sentiment, and an early contender for one of the best original songs of 2020.
Sure there are plenty of films about self-discovery and teenage love, but Premature is different. It doesn't shy away from the authentic, real-life problems that can't be fixed with an "I'm Sorry" sign or begging for forgiveness. It's a thoughtful work that cuts right to the heart.
PREMATURE (2020)
Starring Zora Howard, Joshua Boone, Michelle Wilson
Directed by Rashaad Ernesto Green
Written by Rashaad Ernesto Green, Zora Howard
Distributed by IFC Films. 90 minutes. Now playing at select Laemmle theaters and On Demand.