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New Ghostbusters Movie: Yay? Yes, Yay!

BuzzSugar — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 10:32:25 -0700

Normally when '80s remake news makes its way to my computer screen, my knee-jerk reaction is something like, "People! Get some creativity and let that decade rest in peace already!" This morning, however, I read several confirmations that Ghostbusters 3 is in the works and surprised myself by feeling very, very excited.

I think there are several reasons for this including:

It has a good chance of not sucking, because it's in very capable hands. Two Emmy-nominated writers from The Office, Lee Eisenberg and Gene Stupnitsky, have been recruited "to work on a new installment of the 1980s franchise that starred Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson and Harold Ramis as bumbling ghost-hunting scientists."
The Hollywood Reporter also notes that "the original filmmakers, including director Ivan Reitman, and cast are aware of the project and involved in its development." Blessing from original director and cast? Another excellent sign.
And finally, it appears that we may get the best of both worlds cast-wise. Variety says the idea is to get the old gang back together in some capacity, while the Hollywood Reporter says that while original cast members may appear, the focus will be on a new group of ghostbusters. Either way, all signs point to some infusion of new talent. For example, E! has a quote from Dan Aykroyd implying he would love to have the Apatow comedy troupe involved. This is a good thing, because I'd hate to see the old ghostbusters strapping on their proton packs only to complain about how heavy they suddenly feel. I'd be worried a movie that only reunites the old cast one last time would feel too much like Wild Hogs.

So while there's a lot still up in the air, this news gets a big fat yay from me so far! What do you think? Are you excited for a third installment of this movie, and does it sound to you like it could actually be good? What actors would you want to see in a potential new cast? If you're not as pumped as I am yet, I dug up a little music video that I think might do the trick, so read more.

Source

Holiday Fun: "How the Sith Stole Christmas"

BuzzSugar — Sun, 24 Dec 2006 11:51:47 -0800

In this 16-minute fan film, animators spoof the beloved "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" story by combining it with aspects of the Star Wars series. Plenty of laughs to be had for both Dr. Seuss and George Lucas fans. May the Force be Grinched.

Movie Night: Holiday Films For Kids and Adults

BuzzSugar — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 09:30:44 -0800

So many movies, so little time. Thankfully, BuzzSugar is here to help you sort through them all! Every Thursday, we'll choose a theme for a weekend Movie Night and feature three must-see movies in keeping with the topic.

This week's Movie Night: family holiday films that won't drive you nuts. If you often find yourself watching holiday movies with the youngsters in your family, it kind of kills the mood when you audibly groan and yawn. Here are three movies that will entertain the tots and keep you from nodding off in the corner like a granny.

Elf
Elf tells the story of Buddy (Will Ferrell), who was swept away to the North Pole as a boy and raised by elves. Despite the obvious physical differences between he and his elfin peers, Buddy considers himself one of them, until his foster dad (Bob Newhart) reveals the truth. Then it's off to Manhattan, where Buddy hopes to reconnect with his real father (James Caan). Dry-witted Zooey Deschanel stars as Buddy's love interest, who works as an elf at a department store. There is plenty of visual comedy that will appeal to the little ones, as well grown-up jokes to keep everyone in the room chuckling.

To see the rest, read more

A Charlie Brown Christmas
This tried-and-true classic tells the tale of Charlie Brown struggling to find the true meaning of Christmas in an increasingly materialistic society. Although originally released in 1965, the theme of this movie is even more relevant today. The basic animation proves that, while Pixar is impressive, the cartoons of the '60s are just as enjoyable, and sweet in their simplicity. Plus, it's always comforting to hear that familiar tune by Vince Guaraldi, "Christmas Time Is Here," which made it onto my Christmas playlist.

Olive, The Other Reindeer
"The Simpsons" animator Matt Groening helped adapt this popular children's book into a funny and unique television special. Olive is a dog who mishears the lyric "All of the other reindeer..." and assumes that she, Olive, is a reindeer. When she learns that Blitzen has broken his leg, she sets off for the North Pole. Along the way she finds a sidekick in Martini the penguin, who sells stolen goods. Adults will appreciate the punny humor (the bartender's name is Round John Virgin) as well as the all-star voices, including Drew Barrymore as Olive and R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe. Meanwhile, children will enjoy the colorful animation and the heroic efforts of scrappy little Olive.

Source, Source, and Source

Box Office: New Moon Overshadows the Competition

BuzzSugar — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 05:45:30 -0800

New Moon madness translated to big bucks for the Twilight sequel: After it set new records for midnight ticket sales and single-day ticket sales, it was obvious it would rule the weekend box office at number one. And how: the movie pulled in $140.7 million, clocking it at the third biggest opening weekend ever, behind The Dark Knight and Spider-Man 3.

What trailed New Moon? I was pleasantly surprised to see heartwarming drama The Blind Side in second, earning a respectable $34.5 million and beating last week's box office ruler, 2012, which was No. 3 with $26.5 million. At No. 4 was animated adventure Planet 51 with $12.6 million, followed by A Christmas Carol with $12.2 million.

Photos courtesy of Summit Entertainment

2012 Ends the World at Number One

BuzzSugar — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:30:00 -0800

The apocalypse makes for top of the box office: doomsday drama 2012 was the number one movie this weekend, pulling in $65 million in its first outing at theaters. If that sounds like an insane amount of money to you, you're right - it's the seventh highest-grossing November opening ever.

Last week's number one, Jim Carrey's A Christmas Carol was pushed into the second spot with $22.3 million, followed by The Men Who Stare at Goats with $6.2 million.

The little move that could, Precious, came in fourth with $6 million, which is more than a 200 percent increase. It's not too surprising, since the much-buzzed-about movie opened up in more cities nationwide, but still a feat considering it has yet to reach wide release. Finally, the Michael Jackson doc This Is It fell to No. 5, earning $5.1 million.

Photos courtesy of Sony Pictures

Buzz In: Which Animated Movie Is Most Oscar-Worthy?

BuzzSugar — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:30:37 -0800

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences issued a press release today, announcing that 20 films have been submitted for Best Animated Film consideration at this year's Oscars. This means there could be five movies competing at the awards show in March. (In the history of the category, there have typically been only three.) So who is up for the honor?

Some are obvious choices. Up, for example, comes as no surprise thanks to its huge accolades. I also think Coraline stands a chance, as well as Fantastic Mr. Fox (look for my review on Friday!). But Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel seems like a long shot - even though it hasn't hit theaters yet, so I'm just making an early prediction. (Sorry, Alvin.)

With 10 movies in the Best Picture category, I wouldn't be surprised if some of these films end up with more than one nomination. Check out the full list of animated film contenders, and tell me which you think is most deserving of an Oscar when you read more.

Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel
Astro Boy
Battle For Terra
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
Coraline
Disney's A Christmas Carol
The Dolphin – Story of a Dreamer
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs
Mary and Max
The Missing Lynx
Monsters vs. Aliens
9
Planet 51
Ponyo
The Princess and the Frog
The Secret of Kells
Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure
A Town Called Panic
Up

Play Our Brand New Holiday Movie Faceoff and Win a Prize!

BuzzSugar — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:30:14 -0800

There's no denying it now - the holiday season is officially upon us, which means it's time to dust off those decorations, blast those merry tunes, and cuddle up to watch festive movies. Everyone has a favorite, whether it's a classic like It's a Wonderful Life or the always-hilarious Elf. There are tons of great ones, and now we're pitting them head-to-head in our brand new faceoff game! Spend some time playing, and you'll be eligible to win an amazing prize package of holiday favorites! Just click here to get started!

The winner will receive the ultimate Holiday movie collection courtesy of Warner Home Video! It includes the upcoming new release Four Christmases as well as favorites How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Peanuts a Charlie Brown Christmas. That’s not all – your collection will be completed by three spectacular Holiday movies boxed sets – the Holiday Comedy Collection: DVD 3-Disc Box Set: Includes "Elf / National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation / Fred Claus", the Holiday Family Collection: DVD 3-Disc Box Set; Includes "A Christmas Story / Happy Feet / The Polar Express", and the TCM Greatest Classic Films Collection: Holiday: DVD; 2-Disc Set; With Sleeve; Includes "A Christmas Carol / Christmas In Connecticut / It Happened On 5th Avenue / The Shop Around The Corner."

Just be sure you're logged into your PopSugar Community account to be entered, so if you're not already a member, register now. To read all the official rules, click here. Now what are you waiting for - play now! The more you play, the more entries you have to win! Don't forget to tell your friends to join in on the fun.

Watch, Pass or Rent Movie Reviews: Precious, A Christmas Carol, The Box and The Men Who Stare at Goats!

BuzzSugar — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 12:00:24 -0800

We have an exciting new weekend video feature - our PopSugar Rush Watch, Pass or Rent Movie Reviews! This week we're giving you the bottom line on Precious, The Box, A Christmas Carol and The Men Who Stare at Goats. Check it out now and let us know what you think in the comments!

Disney's A Christmas Carol: A Fun New Spin on an Old Favorite

BuzzSugar — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:00:00 -0800

Charles Dickens' classic A Christmas Carol is, quite literally, a tale as old as time. Hollywood has already turned the novel into countless films, so how do you keep it fresh to entertain old and young audiences alike? You give them a pair of 3-D glasses.

I was a bit skeptical about Disney's newest remake of the flick, even with the super stylized animation and all-star cast behind the voices. But once you put on those glasses, you'll be oohing and aahing right along with the kids, making the film a fun ride. It doesn't tug on the heartstrings the way other versions can, but it's not devoid of emotion either. To see what I mean, just read more.

Robert Zemeckis brings the story we already know and love; old Ebenezer Scrooge (voiced by Jim Carrey) defines miserly and crotchety, spending his days counting his pennies and bitterly snapping at those around him. On one particularly Christmas Eve, he his haunted by the ghost of his former partner, Jacob Marley. Sporting chains and a ghastly demeanor, Marley warns Scrooge that he will suffer the same miserable fate if he doesn't take heed of three spirits who will visit him over the course of the night.

The film stays very true to Dickens's short novel, borrowing much of the text straight from the book and incorporating some of the darker elements that I hadn't seen before in versions designed for kids. That said, I still feel like some of the scenes waver on the side of being too scary. Marley's introduction with the chains is frightening but funny, whereas the progression of the ghost of Christmas present to the ghost of Christmas future (complete with full decay from giant to skeleton) probably would have given me nightmares when I was younger.

The special effects are all you could want and more; the 3-D pulls you right in, carrying you along with Scrooge as he flies overhead in his nightgown (and later spits in your face). You're in the midst of Victorian England at Christmas time, from the snowstorms to the festive music. It's dazzling - until you hit the emotional stuff.

The tale is one with a great big heart, but the actors can only go so far using their voices alone. In the most sentimental scenes, I found myself just wishing I could see the big name actors (which includes Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, and Robin Wright Penn) gazing into each other's eyes pointedly. Instead, it feels a bit like watching two mannequins standing face to face. Still, you're never bored for long, and there's always another thrill waiting at every turn.

In the end, Disney accomplishes its goal, producing a film that looks amazing and will entertain kids and adults alike. It may not be the best version of the tale to date, but it will leave you feeling plenty merry on your way out of the theater.

Photos courtesy of Walt Disney Pictures

Which November Movie Do You Want to See the Most?

BuzzSugar — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 13:30:21 -0800

There are only two months to go in 2009, which means Hollywood is quickly rolling out the rest of its heavy-hitters. November offers up a wide selection of comedy, drama, action and indie, but tell me - which film is at the top of your list?