Tuesday, August 12, 2008

A Doll's House

Authors: Lee
Location: New Jersey

"A Doll's House"
A Suspenseful Take on Henrik Ibsen's Classic Play

Distributed by: Focus Features
Directed by: Kenneth Lonergan
Written by: Kenneth Lonergan
Produced by: George Clooney

Principal Cast:

Nora Helmer: Laura Linney
Torvald Helmer: George Clooney
Dr. Rank: Ralph Fiennes
Mrs. Christine Linde: Emily Watson
Nils Krogstad: Robert Downey Jr.
Anne: Patricia Clarkson

Tagline: "Discomfort exists, even in the comfort of your own home"

Synopsis: Kenneth Lonergan (You Can Count On Me, Margaret) teams up once again with Academy Award nominee, Laura Linney for this glorious "A Doll's House," a contemporary adaptation of the classic play by Henrik Ibsen. George Clooney stars as Torvald Helmer, a controlling man who calls his wife "his little song-bird," and has her trapped in their home as his personal call-girl. Torvald beats Nora, and scolds her in public, and treats her like a whore.

The role of Mrs. Christine Linde (a former schoolmate of Nora's, is played by the Oscar nominee, Emily Watson; the moral center of the story, Dr. Rank (who is both Torvald's doctor as well as a love interest for Nora is played by Ralph Fiennes, and Robert Downey Jr., stars as Krogstad, (the man who bribes Nora with her dirty secret). Lastly, in a touching and poingant role, Patricia Clarkson stars as Anne, Nora's long-time nurse and family friend.

In addition to a more crisp and concise script by Mr. Lonergan, and the edginess and sexiness of this work, "A Doll's House," differs from the original play in how it ends. In the original, Nora leaves Helmer at the end of the play for freedom. Here, she escapes for that purpose as well, but also, to be with Dr. Rank, (whom she has had a love for many years).

Lonergan's film is much edgier, sexier and raw than the play itself, and other previous adaptations of the source material, yet it manages to maintain the excellent narratology, dramatic strengths, and moral seriousness that made the play so famous. Additionally, Mrs. Linde embarks on a love affair with Torvald that Nora discovers once she comes to visit the first time. In the end, Torvald kills Nora for leaving him, but he will feel the rath of Dr. Rank.

What the press would say:

Review: "All of the actors here will be nominated for Oscars... Mark my words. The entrie cast. And, Linney, Clooney, and Fiennes, are on their way to wins!"
-Oprah Winfrey, ABC TV

Review 2: "With "A Doll's House," Ms. Linney proves she is the best actress in her generation at playing vulnerable, probably because as an actress she is not...The unspoken energy and power she brings to the screen serves as a forshadowing for Nora's future escape. " E-movies

Review 3: "Mr. Clooney delivers an deliciously evil performance as the more contemporarily cynical Torvald. Linney is likwise, bold and courageous, as the woman who confronts a monster head on.

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION:

BEST PICTURE
BEST ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE, LAURA LINNEY
BEST ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE, GEORGE CLOONEY
BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE, RALPH FIENNES & ROBERT DOWNEY JR.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: EMILY WATSON AND PATRICIA CLARKSON
BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY, KENNETH LONERGAN

The Apocalypse of Angela Reed

Authors: James Somerton
Location: Canada

"The Apocalypse of Angela Reed"

Directed By Peter Jackson
Written By James Somerton
Produced By Peter Jackson
Score By Howard Shore

Principal Cast:

Robin McNeil as Angela Reed
Kieran Gallivan as Nick Taylor
Evan Rachel Wood as Krystle Cunningham
Cate Blanchett as Sienna Thorn
Daniel Brühl as Hades
Annette Bening as Maria Reed
Aaron Eckhart as Dr. Vince Edwards

Tagline: "The End Is Near…"

RELEASE DATE: December 18

Synopsis: The year is 1999 and the world is in turmoil. Wars are raging in the Holy Lands, storms are growing fiercer ever day, world leaders and more corrupt than ever, and the millennium is approaching. As if this wasn’t enough, Angela Reed is a young girl who is being raised by a chain smoking, drug addicted, and alcoholic mother. When her mother, Maria, is mysteriously killed one night after coming home from a bar, Angela is placed in the custody of the Cunningham’s; the family of her best friend Krystle. As the summer of 1999 drags on, the temperatures sore and Angela is beginning to see things. She is growing paranoid of everything and becoming dizzy all the time. All of this culminates one night when she has a massive seizure and is rushed to the hospital. She survives but she has seen things. She has seen Biblical images of the End of the World, and a warlord named Hades who is ravaging the earth. All the while, the investigation into Maria Reed’s murder is being headed by Sienna Thorn; a woman who has fooled the local authorities into believing that she is in the FBI. She searches out Maria’s real killer as Angela recovers in the hospital.

Then, at the end of the summer, a hurricane rips through the small town and knocks the power out in the hospital. Angela sees Hades everywhere in the darkness and Krystle rushes to get her out of the hospital. When they escape, everything goes back to normal, until Angela is told by Sienna Thorn that Hades is, in fact, real and hunting her down. He wants to kill her before New Years 1999 because if Angela is dead, that means the world will go with her. But if Angela lives past midnight, the world will be safe for another thousand years. On New Year’s Eve, Hades appears and corners Angela. She puts up a fight but it isn’t enough. He kills her… at 12:01am, 2000.

What the press would say:

““The Apocalypse of Angela Reed” could have been just another slasher movie in the hands of many directors but James Somerton, the director of the Oscar nominated film “Lost in America”, manages to keep the characters above the blood (of which there is very little). The acting in the film is Oscar quality with Robin McNeil (Pretty Young Thing), heading a cast of film veterans such as Evan Rachel Wood as her best friend; Cate Blanchett as Sienna Thorn, a woman with more than her fare share of secrets; Annette Bening as her abusive mother, Maria; and Aaron Eckhart as Neurologist who psychiatrist who thinks he knows what’s wrong with her. The film goes beyond simple horror movie with its running length of over two hours, it’s superb cast, and it’s religious undertones. This is a character drama that just happens to be absolutely terrifying. The killer, Hades, is sympathetic when it is revealed that he is immortal, but he doesn’t want to be. He was made immortal by en even greater evil thousands of years ago but his lover was not. Now, if the world ends, he can be back with the one person he ever loved. This makes the ending one that is bittersweet. The audience almost feels sorry for him. This film delves deep into the psychological trauma left behind by an abusive mother, and a sexually abusive stepfather.

And that alone makes it worthy of Oscar Gold. This film reminds me of “The Exorcist” as it is, indeed, a horror movie but it goes beyond that with it’s powerful acting and well-written script. With four Golden Globe nominations (Best Actress – Robin McNeil, Best Supporting Actress – Evan Rachel Wood, Best Supporting Actress – Annette Bening, and Best Screenplay), a whole host of guild awards, and some of the best reviews of any horror movie ever made, “The Apocalypse of Angela Reed” may be the first time that the Academy awards a true blue horror movie with the big one.

POSSIBLE NOMINATIONS

Best Picture – Peter Jackson
Best Director - James Somerton
Best Adapted Screenplay – James Somerton, based on his book.
Best Actress – Robin McNeil
Best Supporting Actress – Evan Rachel Wood
Best Supporting Actress - Annette Bening
Best Supporting Actor – Aaron Eckhart
Best Original Score – Howard Shore

The Arabic Cafe

Authors: Maia
Location: LA

"The Arabic Cafe"

Directed by Mike Nichols
Written by Tony Kushner
Cinematography by Stephen Goldblatt
Original Music by Elliot Goldenthal
Edited by Martin Walsh
Produced by Steven Spielberg

Principal Cast:

Naveen Andrews as Ghalib Selin
Jamie Bell as Charlie Smith
Ed Harris as Anthony Smith
Kate Bosworth as Linda Smith
Salma Hayek as Sister Nora
Ben Kingsley as Omar

Tagline: "On December 14, 2007… You’ll find an unexpected ally”

“Friendships are born in the most unlikely places”

Synopsis: A NY teenager (Bell) tortured by his mother’s recent murder finds an escape from his shattered family and mediocre school life in an unusual friendship with the mysterious Palestine owner of an Arabic coffee shop (Andrews) in his neighborhood.

As the two become closer, they discover that both need a getaway from their unhappiness and soon begin to plot the most terrifying plan to achieve it.

What the press would say:

Mike Nichols’ crude and provocative “The Arabic Café” is the bravest and most honest look at terrorism in our country in the last decade! This powerful drama studies the social causes of terrorism by joining two different characters that have lost all hope in society and that become dependent of each other in Nichols’ most subtle style.

Naveen Andrews is excellent as the suicidal Ghalib Selin, a man who wants to honor his dying father’s (Kingsley) last wish by planning the ultimate terrorist attack to New York City. The young Jamie Bell is equally fantastic as the pivotal Charlie Smith, a character that demands the actor to explore feelings like sorrow, anger, impotence and hate; and that he accomplishes with solid determination (nailing the NY accent to perfection along the way). Supporting jobs by Ed Harris as Charlie’s alcoholic and abusive father next to Ben Kingsley extraordinary job as Ghalib’s fanatic father and Al-Qaeda’s supporter are worthy of all their Oscar buzz. Salma Hayek is also terrific as Sister Nora, a devoted catholic nun that symbolically represents Charlie’s conscience but that is trapped in moral dilemma when she and Charlie become “too” close. Kate Bosworth rounds up the cast as Charlie’s older sister and confident.

Gripping exploration of human nature by Tony Kushner’s screenplay provides the characters with substance and, even if we disagree, with a logic to their horrifying actions. Look out for the film’s divisive final act! Left and right-wing politicians won’t stop talking about it! Will Charlie and Ghalib succeed in their selfish seek of healing? Or Not?

“The Arabic Café” is an unusual and controversial film but a master piece nonetheless, Mike Nichols has given the world a film without agendas and one that will probably win Best Picture next March.

Consider this film for the next awards:

Best Picture (AMPAS)
Best Picture – Drama (HFPA)
Best Actor – Naveen Andrews
Best Actor – Jamie Bell
Best Supporting Actor – Ed Harris
Best Supporting Actor – Ben Kingsley
Best Supporting Actress – Salma Hayek
Best Original Screenplay
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Original Score

Blood & Water

Authors: Masnoraffis Masdil
Location: Singapore

"Blood & Water"

Directed by Marc Foster
Written by Andrew Niccol
Original Score by Jan A.P. Kaczmarek

Principal Cast:

Al Pacino (Steven)
Johnny Depp (Paul)
Dianne Wiest (Jennifer)
Sandra Bullock (Michelle)
James Franco (Patrick)
Lindsay Lohan (Marcia)
Jennifer Aniston (Lindsey)
Imelda Stauton (Mrs. Taylor/Nanna)
Spencer Breslin (young Paul)
Andrea Bowen (young Marcia)
Jeffrey Tambor (Michelle's father)

Tagline: "N/A"

Synopsis: Steven (Al Pacino) & Jennifer (Dianne Wiest) have raised their children, Patrick (Spencer Breslin) & Paul (Johnny Depp) since young in an environment full of love and wealth. Unknown to Patrick, Paul was adopted by his parents. Circumstances intervene and Paul fell in love with Michelle (Sandra Bullock), a peppy girl from the lower end of town. Steven was angry when Paul refuses to marry Lindsey (Jennifer Aniston), Paul's childhood friend, whom Steven feels is much of better class than Michelle. Steven & Paul parted ways, unaware of the pain they have caused all the others in their loving family. A few years later, a much older Patrick (James Franco) only realised the truth when he overheard a conversation between his two grandmothers after coming back from college. He goes to England to find Paul who had migrated there shortly before Patrick was sent to college. With a little help from Michelle's younger sister, Marcia (Lindsay Lohan), he enters Paul's household as a supposedly houseguest and tries to get to know his brother again. From there, he tries to reunite back his broken up family.

What the press would say:

The movie would make you laugh, the movie would make you cry. The movie will make you think of your parents a few times. In all, the movie doesn't disappoint. Given its multi star cast, you would expect a persona to be sidelined and that doesn't happen. Marc Foster handles the emotive scenes and the sad scenes with a magic touch, which makes us recognize his talent. Certain scenes will remain in your memories for their emotive qualities even after the movie is over. Some examples are Jennifer waiting at the door for Paul thinking that he will return, Michelle's father dying, the reciting of the words of wisdom from Paul's son to Paul that came from Steven to Paul, the discovery thereafter that Paul's houseguest is none other than his own brother. These are only some of the scenes that are combined with an awesomely emotive background score, composed by Jan A.P. Kaczmarek.

Al Pacino, as the patriarch of the family, gives his usual restrained manner who values tradition and social hierarchy. Dianne Wiest, as his wife, holds up well against Pacino. Her role was superbly written and she performs well as the dutiful wife who finally stands up to the husband after being reunited with her long lost son. The scene where both of them were sitting in the garden, is one of the more remembered scenes, and her character really stands out specifically her ending it off with the line "I said it..." In the end you will definitely be reminded of your own mom with her performance and cherish her even more. Johnny Depp's performance is restrained and skilful. He held his own against Pacino in their confrontation scene. James Franco gave a surprising good performance, easily the best among the three male characters. His emotive sequences, especially his tear jerking scenes are well handled, especially the bench scene between him and Depp where Depp realises Franco's true identity.

Sandra Bullock well balanced act between comedy and emotion strikes at the viewer. Having a main character that provides a lot of the comical scenes in this movie really helps. Not only does she look awesome here, she is the highlight of the film and she's all over it. Lindsay Lohan gaves an Alicia Silverstone's "Clueless" performance here, with a bubbly and over the top performance, irritating the life out of Depp's character. Marcia's transformation from a slut type character to a humane persona and Paul's attitude it is totally enjoyable. Imelda Staunton gave another great performance and she really makes her presence felt. As "Mrs. Taylor", she is a second mom to Patrick & Paul and her requirements to portray it are not any different than Wiest, and she's done an awesome job doing it. She does provide the comic relief at times too. But her most stand out scene is the scene where Nanna decides to help Patrick ties his sholecaes. Patrick, whom from young has never learn how to tie his shoelaces, tries to dissuade Mrs. Taylor from doing it but to no avail until he finally sits up in frustation and accidentally calls him "Nanna", the nickname he called her since young.

Ultimately, it's a family movie that really entertains from the heart. Marc Foster has given us a lovable film for us to remember in times and I can see it getting accolades in the upcoming awards ceremonies.

For Your Consideration

For Your Consideration

Best Picture
Best Director: Marc Foster
Best Screenplay: Andre Niccol
Best Original Score: Jan A. P. Kaczmarek
Best Actor: Johnny Depp
Best Actress: Sandra Bullock
Best Supporting Actor: Al Pacino
Best Supporting Actor: James Franco
Best Supporting Actress: Lindsay Lohan
Best Supporting Actress: Dianne Wiest
Best Supporting Actress: Imelda Staunton
Best Editing: Joel Cox
Best Cinematography: Rodrigo Prieto

Bright Lights

Authors: Corey
Location: USA

"Bright Lights"

Directed By: Sydney Pollack
Written By: Jeremy Levin, Arthur Laurents, & Paul Haggis
Produced By: Steven Spielberg, Sydney Pollack, & Paul Haggis
Music By: John Williams
Cinematography By: Dion Beebe
Costumes By: Colleen Atwood
Art/Set Direction: Gordon Sim
Edited By: Hughes Winborne

Principal Cast:

Rachel McAdams: Julia Bergman
Ryan Gosling: Richard Williams
Meryl Streep: Kathy Williams
Robert DeNiro: Sam Williams
Liza Minnelli: Sally Adams
Elizabeth Taylor: Gloria Howard

Tagline: "Can love really survive anything?"

Synopsis: Julia and Richard grew up in the same neighborhood, but they rarely crossed paths. Ironically, both bump into each other at college some fifteen years later. They soon become closer than either thought possible. Richard quits school, convincing Julia to do the same in order to pursue a family life. After several years together, Julia decides that she wants to move to New York and pursue a career on the Broadway stage, but Richard refuses to move and the two are torn apart. After arriving in New York, Julia meets two women that are to change her life forever. One is a woman named Gloria (Oscar winner Elizabeth Taylor) who decides to take Julia under her wing and wants nothing more than to see Julia give in to her rules to see that Julia rises to the standards Gloria wants. The other woman is a former Broadway star (Oscar winner Liza Minnelli) that teaches Julia that the dreams pursued in life have to be those that each individual wants. Back in Los Angeles, Richard confides in the company of his mother and father (Oscar winners Meryl Streep & Robert DeNiro) who soon convince Richard that he must go after her if he really loves her, but the day before Richard is to make contact with Julia after more than five years, he is drafted into war. Both are left to wonder what will happen to the other and if fate will play a hand in reuniting them one last time.

What the press would say:

With tones of his 1973 classic “The Way We Were,” Sydney Pollack returns to the romantic genre with great power and perception. Powerful performances, maturity, and great chemistry keep co-stars of “The Notebook” looking better than ever. Great supporting roles from a great line up of Oscar winners. What a winner!

Oscar Nominations:

Best Picture
Best Director: Sydney Pollack
Best Actress: Rachel McAdams
Best Actor: Ryan Gosling
Best Supporting Actress: Liza Minnelli
Best Supporting Actress: Meryl Streep
Best Supporting Actress: Elizabeth Taylor
Best Supporting Actor: Robert DeNiro
Best Original Screenplay
Best Score
Best Art/Set Direction
Best Cinematography
Best Costume Design
Best Film Editing

Broken

Author: Juan Ascencio
Location: Mexico

"Broken"

Directed by :Sam Mendes
Screenplay by: Todd Hynes
Music by: Thomas Newman
Cinematography by: Edward Lachman

Principal Cast:

Kirsten Dunst-Charlotte Fleming
Chris O’Donnell- Aaron Sheldon
William Hurt-Isaac Fleming
Gwyneth Paltrow-Meagan Sheldon
Tobey Maguire-Lane Sheldon
Annette Bening-Sarah Fleming

Tagline: "Forgiveness is the only way to go on"

Synopsis: Charlotte is ingenuous dreamer young woman, only child of Sarah and Isaac Fleming, the shepherd of his conservative protestant church. During her first year in college, Charlotte realizes she is pregnant and full of fear talks to her boyfriend, an immature guy called Lane, but he doesn’t want to face the problem and breaks up with her in a painful way. Charlotte hopes to receive help from her parents; nevertheless they qualify her daughter’s situation as sinful and risky for their position as spiritual guides. Charlotte is forced by them to have an abortion and hide the secret forever. Lonely and devastated, she finds spiritual relief in a faithful and respectable member of her congregation, a man called Aaron and whose life is not easy either because he has to deal with his atheist wife, Meagan, who criticizes his strong faith and lives secretly attracted by Lane. The innocent friendship of Charlotte and Aaron turns into a forbidden passionate romance, which will make them reflect about their religious faith and look together for the necessary strength to face their families and other people condemn.

What the press would say:

Original, shameless, controversial and truly human are some ways to qualify Sam Mendes’ new film “Broken”, a complex story in which religion and social roles are shown in a different way, the most sensitive and real that has been accomplished so far. The cast members add the necessary contrasts to the story, diverse kinds of acting, dissimilar personalities, but united by a strong determination and majestic talent. The leading couple, Kirsten Dunst and Chris O'Donnell, demonstrate a big capacity to capture their characters in a entire way, making us part of their fears, doubts, faith and hopes; O’Donnell is back in the spotlight since his performance in Scent of a woman, reaffirming his high level between actors of his generation; Dunst shows that she is able to perform in deep stories and quit her teen star image to become one of the most intense young actresses.

William Hurt and Annette Bening offer a powerful performance as Kirsten’s evil parents, proving once more their condition as consecrated actors. Gwyneth Paltrow is particularly wonderful playing O’Donnell’s atheist wife, a total different character to all she has done in her career, she becomes a promiscuous woman seducing Maguire character, who makes also a great performance in this film, adding the indispensable bitterness, and forcing us to focus on his interaction with Kirsten Dunst, completely opposite to what we see in Spiderman movies. Sam Mendes challenges himself again directing a diverse team, working with a reflexive screenplay and offering a story that will doubtlessly receive a lot of attention from critics, church and society, a film destined to become a collective phenomenon.

AWARDS FOR CONSIDERATION:

Best picture
Best Director
Actress in a leading role: Kirsten Dunst
Actor in a leading role: Chris O’Donnell
Best supporting actress: Gwyneth Paltrow
Best supporting actress: Annette Bening
Best supporting actor: William Hurt
Best supporting actor: Tobey Maguire
Original Screenplay
Original Score
Best Cinematography
Best Editing

Bruised Boys

Authors: Douglas Reese
Location: Clarksville, OH

"Bruised Boys"

Director: Gary Ross
Screenplay: Gary Ross and Jeff Nathanson
Producers: Nathan Lane and Gary Ross
Score: John Williams

Principal Cast:

Zac Efron – Nathan McGee
Haley Joel Osment – Lance Howell
Thomas Haden Church – Multry Howell
Cate Blanchett – Vivian Howell
Frances McDormand – Jennifer McGee
Evan Rachel Wood – Sarah Lockwood
Jack Nicholson - Bradley

Tagline: "They have a choice…”

Synopsis: A dramatic-romantic comedy about two teenagers who fall in love. Nathan McGee is struggling to come out about his homosexuality because of his girlfriend Sarah. Lance Howell also hides his sexual preference from his gay-hating parents Multry and Vivian. When the two meet on the Internet, the two fall in love – without even seeing each other. Not knowing it’s only puppy love, the two struggle with coming out. Plus, to make matters worse for the two, Nathan’s mother Jennifer is dying of cancer, and Lance’s homophobic father Multry just discovered his son’s homosexuality. The two boys then decide to meet…

What the press would say:

Controversial for two of the film’s scenes. 1) a flashback in which Efron’s character Nathan has, looking back at when he was sexually molested by Jack Nicholson’s character Bradley. It doesn’t shy from its detail – but it doesn’t show what happens to Nathan.

Bradley just gives a disturbingly powerful –and haunting – four-minute monologue. 2) Zac Efron and Haley Joel Osment’s characters end the movie with a five-minute sex scene that goes so into detail, some people have fled the theater! But still, the film was showing the raw romance between these two characters. Filmgoers will most likely understand the film’s true meaning. But the controversy didn’t stop the film from being a critical success! Many critics praised Zac Efron’s performance the most. Although most people see him as the Disney channel heartthrob, here he proves that he is mature enough to bring forward a moving performance. Roger Ebert hailed, “It’s in his eyes, his words, the way he speaks, the way he moves his hands. He acts NOTHING like his character in High School Musical; instead he proves he’s an adult. Shame on Oscar if he does not get a nomination!” Haley Joel Osment received good reviews. Peter Travers says, "Osment does something different here. He brings a more heart filled performance rather than a creepy one like he did in The Sixth Sense. BLISTERED BOYS has a performance from Osment that packs realism and humanity!” Thomas Haden Church plays Osment’s homophobic father, coming to a conclusion that his son is gay. Church is almost a villain, but he is also a good father figure deep down. Cate Blanchett is Osment’s mother whom really, as she bluntly puts it: “hate(s) fags!” McDormand’s performance as Efron’s dying mother is “sensational” hails Richard Roeper. She loves her son so much, she is the only person who Efron has told about his sexuality and she understands like a good mother should. Evan Rachel Wood is used in one scene here and she plays it superbly! Jack Nicholson stars in a disturbing four-minute monologue role that can get him Supporting Actor, if his creepiness doesn’t let him lose grip on it. But his performance is truly harrowingly unforgettable! As for
BRUISED BOYS Roger Ebert says, “It’s a true movie and that’s what its goal was to do. And it works on a comedy level, on an emotional level, on a great movie level. One of the year’s ten best films!”

So please give this thrilling picture:

Best Picture
Best Director – Gary Ross
Best Original Screenplay – Gary Ross and Jeff
Nathanson
Best Actor – Zac Efron
Best Actor – Haley Joel Osment
Best Supporting Actor – Thomas Haden Church or Jack
Nicholson
Best Supporting Actress – Cate Blanchett or Frances
McDormand
Best Film Editing

Cataclysmic

Authors: Connor Campbell
Location: Texas

"Cataclysmic"

Directed by Steven Spielberg
Written by Paul Attanasio
Sound Mixing- Christopher Boyes, Michael Semanick, Michael Hedges, Hammond Peek
Sound Editing- Mike Hopkins, Ethan Van der Ryn
Visual Effects- Joe Letteri, Brian Van’t Hul, Christian Rivers, Richard Taylor
Costume Design- Colleen Atwood
Make Up- Rick Baker
Cinematography- Janusz Kaminski
Score- John Williams
Featuring the Original Song “Tears” by Imogen Heap
Distributed by Amblin Entertainment

Principal Cast:

Forest Whitaker- Michael Robinson
Chandra Wilson- Florence Robinson
Naveen Andrews- Aadarsh Patel
Amy Sedaris- Colleen Byrne
Jake Weber- Liam Byrne

Tagline: "Looking at Texas City on Wednesday, April 16, 1947 was like catching a glimpse of hell"

Synopsis: Cataclysmic is a film about the Texas City Disaster, which was a series of massive explosions which killed hundreds (officially, the actual number is unknown). The first explosion was so powerful that people in Galveston (10 miles away) fell to there knees, windows in Houston (40 miles away) were shattered, & a seismologist in Denver initially interpreted the shock waves as an atomic bomb explosion in Texas. The film follows three workers at the port (ground zero), Michael (Whitaker), Aadarsh (Andrews), & Liam (Weber), complete strangers at first, but after the first explosion, in which all of them sustained major injuries befriend each other in order to save themselves from the flames that engulf the port, for they are too weak to flee the area. The film also follows Michael & Liam’s wives (Wilson & Sedaris), and their anxiety, looking out what used to be their windows, stubbornly waiting for their husbands’ car to drive up.

Eventually, the wives travel to the police station to try and find answers, where Florence & Colleen meet. After getting no answers from the police, the wives decide to travel to the port to try and find their husbands. After 3 hours of looking, they finally find their husbands & Aadarsh. But shortly after this, the second explosion occurs. Aadarsh dies, and the others all receive major injuries. They are discovered and are taken to the hospital. Liam is paralyzed, but Michael, Florence, & Colleen make complete recoveries. The movie ends with the first ever class action lawsuit.

What the press would say:

“Cataclysmic is the most realistic movie in film history. With the perfect combination of cast & crew, Cataclysmic is one of the best movies I’ve ever seen. Chandra Wilson of Grey’s Anatomy steals the show with the performance of a lifetime. Forest Whitaker, Naveen Andrews & Jake Weber make a surprisingly great team. And I must say I am most impressed with Amy Sedaris. She has entered the world of dramatic acting and has made a name for herself. All this under the brilliant direction of Steven Spielberg

Best Picture
Best Director- Steven Spielberg
Best Actor- Forest Whitaker
Best Actress- Chandra Wilson
Best Supporting Actor- Naveen Andrews
Best Supporting Actor- Jake Weber
Best Supporting Actress- Amy Sedaris
Best Original Screenplay- Paul Attanasio
Best Original Score- John Williams
Best Original Song- ‘Tears”- Imogen Heap
Best Cinematography- Janusz Kaminski
Best Make Up- Rick Baker
Best Costume Design- Colleen Atwood
Best Sound Mixing- Christopher Boyes, Michael Semanick, Michael Hedges, Hammond Peek
Best Sound Editing- Mike Hopkins & Ethan Van der Ryn
Best Visual Effects- Joe Letteri, Brian Van’t Hul, Christian Rivers, Richard Taylor

Columbine

Authors: Qasim Asif
Location: London, England

"Columbine"

Directed by Roman Polanski
Produced by Roman Polanski

Principal Cast:

Eric Harris – Jake Gyllenhaal
Dylan Klebold – Maculay Culkin

Tagline: "12 Dead, 24 Injured and 2 Killers"

Synopsis: The Columbine High School massacre occurred on Tuesday, April 20, 1999, at Columbine High School in unincorporated Jefferson County, Colorado, near Denver and Littleton. Two teenage students, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, carried out a shooting rampage, killing 12 fellow students and a teacher, as well as wounding 24 others, before committing suicide. It is considered to be the deadliest school shooting, and the second deadliest attack on a school in United States history after the Bath School disaster.This movie traces the life of Dylan and Eric before the massacre, during the massacre, until their deaths. The film also explores the tragedy that befalls upon the victims families.

What the press would say:

A compelling and gripping story that has struck me in my heart and the thought of death on innocent children. A visual feast of delight yet the emotions and the malice overwhelm you and take you into another room, away from the ungrateful society of today. Never have I seen a film with such caliber like this film, a certain Oscar winner and hopefully a certain classic.

Oscar Predictions:

Best Picture
Best Director
Best Actor in a Leading Role – Jake Gyllenhaal, Maculay Culkin
Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or
Published
Best Cinematography
Best Art Direction-Set Decoration
Best Editing
Best Music, Original Song

Complicated Disaster

Authors: Jack
Location: Connecticut

"Complicated Disaster"

Directed by Robert Altman
Written by Robert Benton
Music by John Williams

Principal Cast:

Sigourney Weaver- Rose McNeal
Demi Moore- Eve Houston
Cher- Joan Walker
Angela Bassett- Holly Harrison
Whoopi Goldberg- Anne Prynne

Tagline: "Five Women, One Spirit"

Synopsis: Five women, Rose McNeal (Sigourney Weaver), Eve Houston (Angela Bassett), Joan Walker (Cher), Holly Harrison (Demi Moore), and Anne Prynne (Whoopi Goldberg), are all women with a challenge. Rose is an aging, washed-up singer with an addiction to amphetamines. Eve is a school principal with an abusive husband. Joan is a bored housewife having an affair with a younger man. Holly is an ad exec. with dreams of being a fashion designer, but too meek to do anything. And Anne is a successful lesbian who battles a codine addiction. As the women's' lives begin to fall apart, so do they, until they all join a support group and find love and support.

What the press would say:

At the end of this movie you want to stand up and cheer! This film is inspiring and dramatic. Sigourney Weaver give perhaps the best leading performance in the last ten years as a washed-up singer with a drug addiction. Demi Moore is fabulous supporting as a battered woman who refuses to acknowledge her husbands abuse. Cher has never been more brilliant in her role as a woman unhappy with her marriage and having an affair. And not since What's Love Got To Do With It has Angela Bassett played a role better. She becomes the shy ad exec. who desperately wants to fashion design. Whoopi Goldberg returns to drama as a businesswoman who has an addiction to cocaine. The film of the year.

Awards Potential:

Best Picture
Best Actress-Sigourney Weaver, Angela Bassett
Best Supporting Actress-Demi Moore, Cher, Whoopi Goldberg

Cowboy From Hell

Authors: Tony
Location: Pittsburgh

"Cowboy from Hell"

Directed by Sam Mendes
Written by Christopher McQuarrie
Produced by Alex Ho
Music by Graeme Revell
Editing by Claire Simpson

Principal Cast:

James DeBello as "Dimebag" Darrell Abbot
John C. Reilly as Vinnie Paul
Matthew McConaughey as Phil Anselmo
Josh Locus as Rex Brown
Anthony Hopkins as Jerry Abbot
Ethan Suplee as Nathan Gale
Paul Giamatti as Tom "T-Bone" Worther
Peter Stormare as Ben "Hutch" Hutchinson
Zakk Wylde as Himself
Rory Culkin as Young Dimebag
Jack Salvatore Jr as Young Vinnie

Special Guest Appearences from: Ace Frehley, Rob Halford, Kerry King, Joe Satriani, Dino Cazares, James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett, Scott Ian, Tony Iommi, and Ozzy Osbourne

Tagline: "Believe the word, I will unlock my door, and pass the cemetery gates" -Pantera

Synopsis: Follow the illustrious life and career of one of metals most influential guitarists of all time, "Dimebag" Darrell Abbot. Growing up in Dallas Texas, going to his fathers studio where he'd normally get to listen to blues guitarists, Darrell Abbot had other plans for his music career. Instead, Darrell had dreams at becoming one of metals greatest guitarist. Influences included Kerry King of Slayer, and Ace Frehley of Kiss. Not only would he become a legend in the metal genre, he would also be known as one of the kindest, most gentle human beings in music history. He didn't know much about being technically good or music theory, but he had the spirit of metal, and created beautiful shreds and riffs that are remembered to this day. Later in life, he and his close brother Vinnie Paul created the band known as Pantera, along with boisterous, charismatic singer Phil Anselmo, and good friend Rex Brown. Together, the 4 toured around the world selling out arenas and living the life of a rock star. Follow the friendship between Dime and famous Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Zakk Wylde, and the animosity between fellow singer Phil, which questionably, led to his death.

The hatred between the two led to the breakup up Pantera, and led each of them to different things, Vinnie and Dimebag went on to make the nu metal band Damageplan, however it was the last band Dimebag would ever be in. During a stage set up at one of their shows, Dimebag was shot down and killed by a man named Nathan Gale, who afterwards was shot down and killed by police. Witnesses stated Gale shot at Dimebag because he believed Darrell was the reason behind Panteras breakup. It was truly a dent in the metal industry.

What the press would say:

Metal fans around the world will love this heartwarming, yet heartbreaking film about one of metals most influential people. Non metal fans will know how stunning and remarkable this piece of film really is if they are not familiar with Dimebag. Abbot is the type of character that writers dream about. A beautiful story about a beautiful human being whose life was tragically ended, but the memories of Dimebag live in us all, and people will love him once they see this film.

DeBello steps his game up to standards that no one else expected. When people look back at this performance, they will put this in the same category as Ray - Foxx, Cash - Phoenix, Dimebag - DeBello.

Great performances from the supporting cast such as Giamatti, who plays the greedy agent behind Pantera, more importantly Phil Anselmo, and Peter Stormare plays the studio owner that gave Pantera their first break. Also a well done performance by an inexperienced Zakk Wylde. Expect Academy opportunities to this all-star cast.

Possible Awards:

Best Picture
Best Director - Sam Mendes
Best Actor in Leading - James DeBello
Best Actor in Supporting - John C. Reilly
Best Actor in Supporting - Matthew McConaughey
Best Actor in Supporting - Paul Giamatti
Best Actor in Supporting - Zakk Wylde
Best Original Screenplay - Christopher McQuarrie
Best Cinematography
Best Set Design
Best Editing - Claire Simpson
Best Music Score - Graeme Revell
Best Sound Editing
Best Original Song - "In This River" - Black Label Society

Deliverance 2

Author: George
Location: Atlanta

"Deliverance 2"

Directed by: Peter Jackson
Written by: Paul Haggis

Principal Cast:

Jon Voight as Ed Gantry
Kevin Bacon as Garth
Emmy Rossum as Julia
Keira Knightly as Beth
Josh Holloway as Hillbilly 1
Patrick Wilson as Hillbilly 2

Tagline: "Beware the Banjo"

Synopsis: Ed Gantry (Voight) decides to overcome his fear of canoeing and go again before he dies. He takes along his brother Garth (Bacon) and sister Julia (Rossum). Garth also brings his girlfriend Beth (Knightly) along for the ride. But after Garth sees a hillbilly and tries to say hello, the hillbilly tries to shoot him. The hunt is on. They try to escape from the wrath of the hillbillies resulting in Garth's sacrifice to save them all.

What the press would say:

Better than the first one. I loved evrey minute of it and it action-packed directing is astonishing, along with the great acting.

Oscars:

Picture
Actor (Voight)
Supporting actor (Bacon)
Supporting actress (Knightly)
Supporting actress (Rossum)
Director
Screenplay
Cinematography
Editing
Sound
Make-up

The Face of Terror

Authors: M.K.
Location: Washington State

"The Face of Terror"

Directed by Bryan Singer
Written by Bryan Singer
Music by Hans Zimmer

Principal Cast:

Lewis Alsamari (Osama Bin Laden)
Patrick Swayze (George W. Bush)

Tagline: "On November 5th, Discover what hand guides evil"

Synopsis: Directed by critically acclaimed director Bryan Singer (The Usual Suspects, X-Men, Superman Returns), shows us the mind of a man who'll kill millions of Americans too prove a point, Osama Bin Laden, starring Character Actor Lewis Alsamari (United 93) and with a genius 9 minute performance by Patrick Swayze (Ghost) as George W. Bush,as we delve deeper and deeper into the mind of this truly evil man, the days come closer to September 11 2001.

What the press would say:

Brilliant, is one of the many words people are using too describe this film, Bryan Singer finally leaves Sci-Fi too return too his home in the drama department as he did with Oscar winning "The Usual Suspects", nowadays instead of getting Kevin Spacey an oscar, he's getting either Arabian actor Lewis Alsamari one, or Patrick Swayze who's 9 minute roll is more brilliant then previous "Short Rolls" that got nominations like William Hurt's in "A History of Violence" or Judi Dench's winning role in "Shakespeare in Love", hopefully this film will get what it deserves, Oscar gold.

The Campaign Includes:

Best Picture
Best Director-Bryan Singer
Best Original Screenplay-Bryan Singer
Best Score-Hans Zimmer
Best Actor-Lewis Alsamari
Best Supporting Actor-Patrick Swayze
with various tech catergories including Editing (Hughes Winborne),
cinematography (Dion Beebe) and costumes (Colleen Atwood)

The Final Straw

Authors: Jeremy
Location: London, England

"The Final Straw"

Directed by: Paul-Thomas Anderson
Written by: Paul-Thomas Anderson

Principal Cast:

Natalie Portman - Amie
Peter Sarsgaard - Mitchell
Scarlett Johansson - Diane
Don Cheadle - Chuck
Mary Louise-Parker - Evelyn
Liam Neeson - Mark
Frances McDormand - Marjorie
William H. Macy - Allan

Tagline: "How far love can go?"

Synopsis: The film follows the relationship of 4 couples, all connected in a small diner in Seattle. Marjorie (Frances McDormand) and Allan (William H. Macy) owns the diner. Married for 30 years with 3 children, it seems that they're marriage has reached the end of the road. Their relationship has suffered numerous events: Marjorie's alcoholism, money problems, the disapproval of their parents when they first started going out and the constant fighting. Will their marriage survive the final straw? Mary Louis-Parker plays the devoted wife of Liam Neeson. Parker and Neeson are both successful businessman/woman and they have been cohabitating for 5 years. They had they're first date in the diner as struggling college graduates trying to find work. Evelyn (Parker) pressured by the society, is eager to get married and have children with Mark (Neeson). Mark however prioritizes his career before his family life. Mark is often away on business trip to Europe and Evelyn found out his extra marital affairs with a young Parisian woman. Will this be the final straw of their relationship of will they be able to survive this bumpy event?

Diane (Scarlett Johansson) works at the diner. She came from a rural family in Texas. She served Chuck (Don Cheadle) with a coffee and it was love at first sight. Chuck however is older than Diane and this has put a strain into their relationship. Diane is self-conscious about what the society thinks of their relationship and the fact that her family has frowned upon this inter-racial relationship. Will Diane's insecurity will be put aside in order for their relationship to survive?

Last but not the least is Amie's (Portman) relationship with Mitchell (Sarsgaard). Amie is an unemployed crack addict who attracted Mitchell's attention while he was having a coffee in the diner. Mitchell has fallen in love head over heels to Amie. However, Amie is a complicated person who deals not only with his abusive father, but as well as her addiction and her bipolarity. Will Amie be able to pull herself together and start a relationship with Mitchell?

What the press would say:

The Final Straw is a masterpiece which discusses the "final straw" in relationships. Everyone who has fallen in love and has their heart broken will be able to relate themselves to the film. The Multi-layered story is woven perfectly as the editing was superbly done. The film also discusses the issues in our society as the story is told in different time frames i.e. when Mcdormand first met Macy (the 70's), parker's first date with Neeson (the 80's), when Johansson first met Cheadle (90's) and when Portman first met Sarsgaard in the present time. The story not only discusses love but as well as political ideas from the 70's, 80's carefree attitude, the 90's MTV generation and the present Ipod generation.

Portman was successful in portraying the complex Amie. Her character is so alluring that the audience can't help to sympathize her. Her portrayal is somewhat a cocktail of Leon's Mathilda and Closer's Alice. Sarsgaard certainly played the naive lawyer who fell head over heels to Portman. His naivety is somewhat charming and makes us believe in the knight in shining armor. Johansson stood out as the confused insecure woman. She's lost in a world full of pressure from the society. Cheadle played the faithful fiancé well. McDormand played the alcoholic Marjorie particularly well. Macy's character, though somewhat less complex stood out because of Macy's performance. However, Parker stood out as Evelyn. She nailed it as the broken woman who found her boyfriend cheating.
Anderson did a great film from a very complicated story line. The audience are left thinking in the end which relationships are going to survive and which is going to fail .The audience are left with a great big shock in the end which makes the film even better.

Best Picture
Best Actress: Mary Louise-Parker
Best Actress: Natalie Portman
Best Supporting Actress: Frances McDormand
Best Supporting Actress: Scarlett Johansson
Best Supporting Actor: WIlliam H. Macy
Best Supporting Actor: Mitchell
Best Original Screenplay
Best Editing
Best Cinematographer

Fresh Heir Vol. III

Author: Brian
Location: Arizona

"Fresh Heir: Volume III"

Directed by Paul Greengrass
Written by Paul Greengrass and Akiva Goldsman
Produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks
Music by Howard Shore

Principal Cast:

Natalie Portman (Nina Wilson)
Elijah Wood (Todd Hall)
Tom Hanks (William Sanders)
Terrence Howard (Former Chairman Michael Finn)
Daniel Craig (Thomas Rogers)
Virginia Madsen (Christina Benson)
Uma Thurman (Stacy Jameson)
Kevin Kline (Ray Stammerton)

Tagline: "A Queen Will Return. A War Will Rage. An Epic Will End"

Synopsis: In the final installment of “Fresh Heir,” we begin with Todd and Michael controlling the raging Civil war against William Sanders and Stacy Jameson. Christina Benson has been taken Prisoner of War, although she was supposed to be leading Todd and Michael’s side. Defeat is imminent, and war seems pointless. On the other side of Dalena is Former Queen Nina Wilson, who has taken a false identity as a normal citizen, forced to hail Sanders. She meets Thomas Rogers, a rebel against the government. She begins a seemingly perfect romance with him. Meanwhile, Christina Benson has now been killed. The rebels have no leader. They set out to find the heart and soul of Dalena: Nina Wilson. They are able to do so, but they find her kidnapped by Thomas, who turned out to be an undercover spy. Nina, Todd and Michael are then tortured. After nearly a year of that, they are able to escape to return to their home soil, where they find Dalena in ruins. A Civil War has been lost. Three rebels survived.

Nina will not take no for an answer. As she watches the corruption, she forgets all of the reasons she ever loved Dalena. She gets the other two to form a group against the government. They then meet Ray Stammerton, one of Sanders’ head advisers. He gives them the secrets to invading the dictator’s office, and how to work the unique weapons he has. If any of the four are caught, though, they face immediate execution. They find it well worth the risk, and they invade Sanders’ office, only to find hundreds of guards in front of them. They don’t fight. They run, but cannot all escape. One doesn’t. Michael Finn is dead.

Nina is faced with thoughts of suicide, once again. She and Todd go back not to kill Sanders, but to kill themselves. As the guards start to charge, they have a quick change of heart, remembering all that died before them. Miranda and Rebecca Hall, Linda Summers, Christina Benson and Michael Finn. With the energy of the spirits of the others, and with 1: 500 odds, they are able to destroy each guard, Stacy Jameson and William Sanders, and even take back the throne to Dalena. Their nation has become a democracy, and at the end we see Todd and Nina at age 90. Nina says “Todd, if life is a journey, then we couldn’t have led a bigger one.”

What the press would say:

WOW, WOW, WOW, WOW, WOW! The unspeakably popular “Fresh Heir” franchise has come to a sweeping, 4 hour conclusion. You don’t have to be a fan to have your breath taken away by this masterpiece. The action is everywhere, the drama is inescapable, the performances are breathtaking, the story is flawless and everything looks gorgeous. I simply cannot think of wanting anything more from a movie. This is one of the best in decades. While we all know that this is a lock for just about everything Oscar-related, it could still use a strong campaign in the following categories:

Best Picture (Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks)
Best Director (Paul Greengrass)
Best Actor (Elijah Wood)
Best Actress (Natalie Portman)
Best Supporting Actor (Tom Hanks, Terrence Howard, Daniel Craig)
Best Supporting Actress (Uma Thurman, Virginia Madsen)
Best Original Screenplay (Paul Greengrass and Akiva Goldsman)
Best Film Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Original Score (Howard Shore)
Best Original Song (“The Row Thy Walk” by Norah Jones)
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound Mixing
Best Sound Editing
Best Makeup
Best Art Direction
Best Costume Design

Genie

Author: Steven
Location: Louisiana

"Genie"

Directed by: Todd Field
Written by: Dan Futterman
Score by: John Williams

Principal Cast:

Dakota Fanning (Genie)
Toni Collette (Irene)
Phillip Seymour Hoffman (Clark)
Jennifer Connelly (Susan Curtiss)
Laura Linney (Jean Butler)
Richard Gere (David Rigler)
Patricia Clarkson (Marilyn Rigler)

Tagline: "An amazing true story of a genie in a bottle"

Synopsis: On November 4, 1970 a little girl was found in a room tied to a potty chair. This is the story of Genie. At the age of 20 months a doctor diagnosed Genie as possibly being mildly retarded. Her father, Clark, took this opinion to the extremes. Genie was isolated in a single room, tied to a potty chair during the day, and forced to sleep in a crib with a metal lid at night. When she was found, she was a 13 year old who appeared to be 8 with the mental capacity of an 18 month year old; she could not walk or talk. From here, the film chronicles the extensive research done on Genie be her doctors (led by Susan Curtiss) who tried to prove if there was a critical age that a child had to acquire a first language. It also follows Genie's many foster homes including stays with her doctor Jean Butler (who hoped Genie would make her famous), her therapist David Rigler, and even a brief stay with her blind mother, Irene.

What the press would say:

"Genie" is one of the best biopics to come out in recent years. Critics everywhere have praised Dakota Fanning's amazing performance. She embodies Genie, and her performance demands the audience's respect. The supporting cast is also excellent. Stand-outs include Toni Collette and Phillip Seymour Hoffman who play Genie's parents. The film has appeared on virtually every critic's top ten list and should have no problem receiving major award recognition.

For Your Consideration:

Best Picture
Best Director (Todd Field)
Best Actress (Dakota Fanning)
Best Supporting Actor (Phillip Seymour Hoffman)
Best Supporting Actress (Toni Collette, Laura Linney)
Best Original Screenplay (Dan Futterman)
Best Film Editing

Hollywood Drama

Authors: Corey
Location: USA

"Hollywood Drama"

Directed By: Mike Nichols
Written By: Carrie Fisher & Meryl Streep
Produced By: Mike Nichols & John Calley
Music By: John Williams
Casting By: Juliet Taylor, Tom Houseman, Corey Wackel, & Patrick Sharp
Cinematography By: Seamus McGarvey (The Hours)
Costumes By: Colleen Atwood (Chicago)
Art/Set Direction: Tom Duffield (Primary Colors)
Edited By: Arthur Schmidt (Forrest Gump)
Make Up By: Greg Cannom & Colleen Callaghan (A Beautiful Mind)

Principal Cast:

Susan Sarandon: Bette Davis
Geena Davis: Katharine Hepburn
Rachel McAdams: Young Meryl Streep
Kathleen Turner: Joan Crawford
Ian McKellen: Peter O’Toole
Ben Kingsley: Henry Fonda
Sandra Bullock: Anne Bancroft
Meryl Streep: Herself
Chris Cooper: Himself
Nicolas Cage: Himself
Spike Jonze: Himself
Hilary Swank: Herself

Tagline: "In Hollywood, drama isn’t just created on-screen"

Synopsis: Early in her career, a raising young star by the name of Meryl Streep receives a letter from the famous actress, Bette Davis, who most critics are ranking as the greatest American movie actress ever. In the letter, Davis tells Streep that she feels that Streep is her successor as the premier American actress. Ironically, another great actress by the name of Katharine Hepburn despises Streep as an actress, and so begins a dramatic battle for the title of cinema’s greatest actress. Over the next several years, each actress struggles to secure the spot by gaining critical acclaim and, above all, the most Oscar nominations, but who, if anyone, is going to end up on top in the end after so much drama?

What the press would say:

“The mix of witty humor and drama that one could only expect from director Mike Nichols. A mixture of real life events and fictionalized material helps the film become that much more brilliant and funnier. Having worked closely with Meryl Streep, a frequent collaborator, Nichols handles the material in a way that nobody could see coming. Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis, in their first screen pairing since Thelma & Louise, are great as the evil, witty, and conniving Davis and Hepburn. Great work also comes from Rachel McAdams, an actress that constantly keeps showing the world more and more of her endless talents. While nobody can capture all the spunk and vitality of Mrs. Streep, McAdams does her best and boy is it a performance! Nichols has also assembled much of his Postcards from the Edge crew, including screenwriter Carrie Fisher, who is joined by Meryl Streep who provided information and some facts about the situation based on personal experience. Meryl creates an Adaptation/Being John Malkovich type of performance as do actors Cooper, Cage, Jonze, and Swank. The make up crew also does a great job, allowing both Sarandon and Davis to age, which provides both actresses to play the full range of their character.”

Oscar Nominations:

Best Picture
Best Director: Mike Nichols
Best Actress: Susan Sarandon
Best Actress: Geena Davis
Best Supporting Actress: Rachel McAdams
Best Supporting Actress: Kathleen Turner
Best Supporting Actor: Ian McKellen
Best Original Screenplay: Carrie Fisher & Meryl Streep
Best Cinematography
Best Score
Best Costume Design
Best Make Up
Best Editing
Best Art/Set Direction
Best Sound Editing

Hollywood Hit

Authors: Deepak / Brian
Location: Appleton / Arizona

"Hollywood Hit"

Directed by Michael Mann
Produced by Michael Mann, Bob Weinstein and Harvey Weinstein
Written by Michael Mann and Charlie Kauffman
Music by Danny Elfman

Principal Cast:

Pierce Brosnan as Aaron
Robin Wright Penn as Holly
Angela Basset as Kimmie
Cate Blanchett as Amanda
Jennifer Nicole Freeman as Kelly
Kate Winslet as Lauren
Nicolas Cage as Daniel

Tagline: "A Fabulous Murder"

Synopsis: In this satire of murder mysteries, stardom and adultery, Holly is a huge Hollywood star and sex symbol who is growing older. Lauren is a young overnight superstar who starts taking roles from Holly and even steals agent, Daniel. Raging in jealousy, Holly then kills Lauren and Daniel while backstage at an awards ceremony. Meanwhile, Aaron, Holly's husband, who is a detective, has been assigned a case dealing with a woman, Kimmie, who has killed her abusive husband and whose children have run away. While investigating, the two fall in love and begin an affair. Aaron is now stuck in two romances, with two killers. In order to cover them up, Aaron needs to frame someone else for the murders. He comes up with a whole story of how another star, Amanda committed the murders. H

owever Aaron being fickle, begins an affair with her and tries to come up with another story to remove Amanda out of the scene, involving how Kimmie’s daughter, Kelly, still sad about her parents divorce, killed the others in an attempt to kill Kimme. However, when they meet, they begin an affair (naturally). But then, Kelly learns about all the other women, and ends up killing Amanda, Aaron and her own mother Kimmie (not knowing he is married to Holly). She finds a way around it by telling that Aaron had killed both of them and then shot himself. Knowing this, Holly takes Kelly into custody and Kelly reveals how she murdered the three of them. Holly and Kelly go on to be a great movie star duo, but of course, with a little lying and cheating. All these great elements put together make this a highly enjoyable black comedy.

What the press would say:

Move aside, Kill Bill. You had a nice run, Fargo. You're number 2 now, Dr. Strangelove. All of these popular black comedies are nothing compared to the darkness, jaw-drops, twists, turns and laughs found in "Hollywood Hit." Filled with stunning performances, the cleverest of direction and indulgent writing, this is a surefire hit for both critics and audiences. While being a comedy is usually poison for a film in terms of Oscar nods, its sheer use of negative energy could make it a hit come awards season, with a strong campaign in the following categories...

Best Picture (Michael Mann, Bob Weinstein & Harvey Weinstein)
Best Director (Michael Mann)
Best Actor (Pierce Brosnan)
Best Actress(Robin Wright Penn)
Best Supporting Actress (Cate Blanchett,Angela Basset and Jennifer Freeman)
Best Original Score (Danny Elfman)
Best Original Song ("Come For a Ride" by U2)
Best Art Direction
Best Cinematography
Best Film Editing
Best Sound Mixing
Best Sound Editing
Best Costume Design
Best Makeup

The Horsemen: Final Elegy

Author: Matthew LaRusso
Location: New Jersey

"The Horsemen: Final Elegy"

Directed by: Peter Jackson
Written by: Fran Walsh and Peter Jackson
Music by: Howard Shore

Principal Cast:

Cillian Murphy as Danny Price aka Conquest
Christian Bale as Nathan Blairs aka War
Johnny Depp as Jack DeVoot aka Famine
Jake Gyllenhaal as Tom Graham aka Death

Tagline: "This Christmas, the Horsemen will ride..."

Synopsis: Based on the book of Revelation from the Bible, this is the modern day story of four men who become possessed by the Antichrist and are given his powers to destroy the world. The men are from different parts of the country and have never met but come together after their calling. While all four become invincible, they have different superhuman powers. This is the story of how the four men plan to destroy mankind and our inability and uselessness in defeating them.

What the press would say:

At nearly 3 and a half hours, many might be reluctant to see this movie. But as he did with the Lord of the Rings trilogy and King Kong, Peter Jackson makes every minute count in this dreary yet thrilling, special effects laden telling about the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. And all though the four men are not actually riding horses because of the modern day retelling, Jackson gives each his own mission and powers. An incredible screenplay by Jackson and fellow Lord of the Rings counterpart Fran Walsh give each actor their due and keeps the story alive. Shore's score is simply breathtaking.

Best Picture
Best Director
Best Original Screenplay
Best Cinematography
Best Art Direction
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound
Best Editing
Best Sound Editing
Best Score
Best Makeup
Best Costume Design

I, Bergman

Authors: Daniel Crooke
Location: Ohio

"I. Bergman"

Produced by: Isabella Rossellini
Directed by: Bennett Miller
Screenplay by: John Logan
Score by: Howard Shore

Principal Cast:

Parker Posey as Ingrid Bergman
Philip Seymour Hoffman as Roberto Rossellini
Johnny Depp as David O. Selznick
John C. Reilly as Dr. Aron Petter Lindstrom
Natalie Portman as Isabella Rossellini
Michael Caine as Alfred Hitchcock
Jack Nicholson as Ed Sullivan

Tagline: "On August 29th, 1915, Ingrid Bergman was born. Hollywood would never be the same"

Synopsis: Before she was known as Ilsa Lund, a little girl named Ingrid Bergman was born in Stockholm, Sweden. Thousands of miles away from Hollywood. Growing up, both of her parents died. She decided to study at the Royal Dramatic Theatre. That is where her life began. She was introduced to Hollywood in the David O. Selznick produced film,
"Intermezzo". She and her husband Dr. Aron Petter Lindstrom moved to Los Angeles. That is where her Hollywood career began. The film was a hit and she soon became "Sweden's illustrious gift to Hollywood". Starring in such films as "For Whom the Bell Tolls", "Casablanca", "Gaslight" and "The Bells of St. Mary", she won three Academy Awards for three of those films. Renowned director, Alfred Hitchcock gave her several good roles, and also helped to make Ingrid Bergman a household name in every director's home in Hollywood. She met Roberto Rossellini and she had two girls with Rosellini, Isabella and Isotta. She then divorced her husband and was now branded as "Hollywood's apostle of degradation". Now with being the butt of Ed Sullivan's joke and being diagnosed with cancer, Bergman needed her life back. This is her story.

What the press would say:

"I. Bergman" is a phenomenal film. The acting is great, the way it is shot is great (I will explain later), and the writing and factual information is fascinating. Parker Posey, once "Queen of the Indies", is now showing her audience that she is just as good in mainstream cinema. Her portrayal of Ingrid Bergman in this year's "I. Bergman" is spectacular. Ms. Posey can do drama just as well as she can do comedy, and we all know how well she does comedy (Waiting For Guffman, Best In Show, etc.). "I. Bergman" is an incredible film that is somewhat reminding me of "The Aviator". This would make sense because the screenplay and the score is done by "The Aviator" alumnis, John Logan and Howard Shore.

The screenplay is magnificent. The film has somewhat of a sepia tone at times, though not completely. It is a bold idea and it works. A supporting performance done by last year's Best Actor winner, Philip Seymour Hoffman as Bergman's second husband, and father of future actress, Isabella Rossellini is another great performance. The film is produced by Isabella Rossellini, and she says it is a "tribute to her mother". I must say, it is a tribute worthy of such a legend of the screen. With about ten minutes of screen time, Jack Nicholson as Ed Sullivan is very entertaining. A risky casting choice, due to Nicholson's age, turns out to be a good one. It is more of a cameo than a Oscar-nominated performance, so "The Jack" will probably not be seeing a thirteenth nomination coming his way, although it is deserved. But the real star of the film is Parker Posey as the great screen legend. I cannot stress enough about how wonderful she is as Ingrid Bergman. Like I said before, she really is showing that her drama skills are top notch. She will be getting an Oscar this year, regardless of the other nominees. Isabella Rossellini is portrayed by Natalie Portman, and it is a great job. Ms. Portman is a wild card for a nomination, but I will not be surprised if she scores one.

The real Rossellini does one of the songs in the film, it is when Bergman is dying. I truly believe that it will touch you. The film's concluding scene is Isabella at her mother's gravestone. She weeps and then walks away. It is a very believable scene and may win Portman the Oscar. Overall, a great film that can be compared to other great biopics. This film is one of the best biopics I have ever seen. One thing is for sure, Parker Posey will be rewarded for her work in this film, and it is about time.

Nominations

Best Picture
Best Director- Bennett Miller
Best Actress- Parker Posey
Best Supporting Actor- Philip Seymour Hoffman
Best Supporting Actress- Natalie Portman
Best Original Screenplay- John Logan
Best Cinematography
Best Original Song- "Mother" by Isabella Rossellini
Best Film Editing
Best Make-Up
Best Costumes

I Do Solemnly Swear

Authors: Jamie Madden
Location: Australia

"I Do Solemnly Swear"

Directed by: Mike Newell
Produced by: Joe Roth
Written by: John Hamburg
Original Score by: Thomas Newman

Principal Cast:

Aaron Eckhart - Michael
Evan Rachel Wood - Judy
Cate Blanchett - Pam
Toni Collette - Christine
Kate Winslet - Linda
Liv Tyler – Kathy
Glenn Close - Kate

Tagline: "How many skeletons do you have in the closet?"

Synopsis: On the eve of his nuptials, Michael, a real estate agent, ponders over his problematic love life, with the help of his alcoholic, temperamental, free thinking mother Kate, and wonders if he is about to marry the right girl. He considers all the girls he has had serious relationships with. First, in high school there was:

Judy - a sweet, shy, but uptight, and sometimes psychotic, Christian drama student, who wanted to wait until her wedding night before she lost her virginity.

In his early twenties camePam - an ambitious, no nonsense, tough talking career woman from the Bronx, whose hair was as fiery as her personality.

When he was 26, he foundChristine – a gutsy, ball busting, pot smoking, nymphomaniac, nightclub owner, who didn’t mind a little S & M, but was less than satisfied with him in the bedroom, especially after the inferno that resulted from the threesome.

Finally, Michael thought he had found the girl of his dreams: Linda – a funny, attractive, unique, wonderful, happy, optimistic beauty therapist from Texas.

But Michael made the mistake on cheating on Linda, with Christine. Now, at 32, he is about to marryKathy – a nice, amiable, fertile (with great child bearing hips) pleasant schoolteacher.

But as Michael thinks more and more he realizes, that maybe he is not prepared to settle with nice and easy. But who will he pick to spend the rest of his life with?.

What the press would say:

A unique team of filmmakers - that includes director Mike Newell (Four Weddings and a Funeral, Harry Potter 4), writer John Humburg (Meet the Parents) and producer Joe Roth,- bring a rare commodity to the cinema; a genuinely funny comedy. Combining the styles of American and British comedy, "I Do Solemnly Swear" is a hilariously moving, and heartbreakingly funny story. Aaron Eckhart, once again, amazes audiences, in his career defining role, which displays his capacity for moving from comedic to dramatic scenes without the blink of an eyelid. He is supported with an array of talented and award winning actress that includes the irrepressibly busy Cate Blanchett as tough taking Pam, Evan Rachel Wood as the pure, demure, and yet slightly insane Judy, Kate Winslet as the upbeat beauty therapist from Texas, Liv Tyler as the very fertile Kathy, Glenn Close as the unattractive, unappealing, alcoholic mother, and the wonderful Toni Collette as the ball busting, drug dealing, nightclub owner, without a heart of gold. "I Do Solemnly Swear" proves to be the biggest laugh out loud experience at the cinemas in a long time.

Oscar Contenders:

BEST PICTURE
BEST DIRECTOR
BEST ACTOR (Eckhart)
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS (Collette, Close, Blanchett, Tyler, Wood, Winslet)
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY
BEST ORIGINAL SCORE

Internet Connection

Author: Matt
Location: Illinois

"Internet Connection"

Directed By: Ron Howard
Produced By: Brian Grazer
Written By: Clint Eastwood
Edited By: Clint Eastwood
Original Score By: Clint Eastwood

Principal Cast:

Haley Joel Osment as Dave Masterson
Clint Eastwood as Martin Deninsky
Reese Witherspoon as Margaret Lupin
Clive Owen as Glenn Lupin
Giovanni Ribisi as Larry Oldenburg
Demi Moore as Linda Anderson
Kiera Knightley as Madeline Sues
Tom Hanks as Wilson Jones
Laura Linney as Julia Jones
Dakota Fanning as Jamie Jones
Morgan Freeman as Dimitri Collins

Tagline: "Bunch Of Strangers Get Entangled In The World Wide Web"

Synopsis: A popular website is responsible for bringing together strangers. It is a place for the characters to escape their everyday life and share their thoughts on various issues, while communicating with others. However, the website and people that they meet on the internet become part of their daily life. An intelligent younger boy (Osment) and a wise older man (Eastwood) share similar views on politics and the world today. The elder takes the boy under his wing and teaches, inspires, and assists the boy. A middle-aged woman (Moore) and a British female (Knightley) also come together because of the website. The two women take their relationship further than the website by e-mailing, talking on the phone, and even arranging meetings. As time goes on, the women develop a bond that goes beyond friendship. In the most touching of tales, a white girl (Fanning) begins to ask advice from an African-American male (Freeman). The man explains history to the young girl, who begins to have an open-mind. On the other hand, her new ideas on race and the past do not thrill her parents (Hanks and Linney). A final relationship between a married woman (Witherspoon) and a single, lonely man (Ribisi) is forged by way of the website. The woman's husband (Owen) does not approve of his wife being up late and talking to a man, who she does not really know. That isn't the case, though. All of these strangers have come together and have gotten to know each other. They have forged superior connections, thanks to the Internet.

What the press would say:

The most inspirational and touching film of the year! The entire ensemble cast is amazing. The topics and issues, which cover race, sexuality, and politics, seem very real throughout the film. Still, the themes are seen from an outsider's perspective and don't make judgments. Ron Howard is credited for that. Demi Moore gives her best performance to date. Kiera Knightley keeps her hot-streak going with this movie topping Pride & Prejudice. Dakota Fanning is well beyond her years in acting ability. Haley Joel Osment gives an Oscar-worthy performance; he gets better and better with age. Academy Award Winner Reese Witherspoon proves that she deserved her Oscar as she gives the best performance in the film. Clive Owen plays the brooding husband perfectly. Morgan Freeman, Tom Hanks, and Laura Linney give their best work. Finally, all hail Clint Eastwood. His performance, score, editing, and screenplay are better than anything to ever grace the silver screen. Internet Connection is the best ensemble-drama ever, and all together the best picture of the year.

Possible Oscar Nominations

Best Picture
Best Director: Ron Howard
Best Original Screenplay: Clint Eastwood
Best Editing: Clint Eastwood
Best Original Score: Clint Eastwood
Best Actress: Reese Witherspoon
Best Supporting Actress: Kiera Knightley
Best Supporting Actress: Demi Moore
Best Actor: Clive Owen
Best Actor: Clint Eastwood
Best Supporting Actor: Morgan Freeman
Best Supporting Actor: Haley Joel Osment
Best Supporting Actor: Giovanni Ribisi

The It Girl

Author: D.W. Dillon
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

"The It Girl"

Directed by Peter Bogdanvoich
Written by Larry McMurtry & Peter Bogdanovich
Music by Ian Whitcomb

Principal Cast:

Jena Malone - Clara Bow
Kelly Gould - Clara Bow (younger)
Jane Fonda - Sarah Gordon (mother)
David Strathairn - Robert Bow (father)
Guy Pearce - Rex Bell
Paul Giamatti - BP Shulberg (Producer)
Val Kilmer - Gary Cooper
Nicole Kidman - Jean Harlow
John Cusack - Victor Fleming
Sean Penn - Bela Lugosi

Tagline: "Adoring fans, a loving family and shock treatment couldn't control the uncontrollable"

Synopsis: Before the likes of Monroe, Roberts and Johansson, there was Clara Bow (Malone). The silent film star and first Hollywood sex symbol lived the hardest and shined the brightest. A rough upbringing spawned a memorable career. Facing an abusive alcoholic father (Strathairn) and a mentally unstable prostitute of a mother (Fonda), Clara found her way out of the gutter and into America's hearts with her first silent film feature "Beyond The Rainbow". She would later star in the best picture Oscar-awarded "Wings" and onto the tough transition with her first speaking role in "The Wild Party". But not all was glamorous for Clara as she was an easy target for the press. Living an unconservative and open life style. She never shied away from her past, she drank hard, and had numerous affairs with fellow celebrities; Bela Lugosi (Penn), Gary Cooper (Kilmer) and director Victor Fleming (Cusack). Ultimately leading to her downfall, living as an outcast in the Hollywood social scene. Trying to shake her reputation, Clara finally settled down with western actor Rex Bell (Pearce). But depression would soon sink on the fallen idol and she would meet her toughest critic of all...herself, as she would battle with Schizophrenia.

What the press would say:

One of the most honest biopics ever filmed. Peter Bogdanovich teams up with Larry McMurtry (The Last Picture Show) once again to deliver a memorable film about the first sex symbol, flapper actress Clara Bow, portrayed by Jena Malone. As expected, with a life she endured comes unforgettable performances by a star-studded cast; David Straithairn as the abusive alcoholic dependent father, and traumatizing mother played by Jane Fonda brings sure fire Oscar nominated performances. Their strong performances, along with scene-stealing roles by Paul Giamatti (Shulberg) and Sean Penn (Lugosi), and Jena Malone (Clara Bow) who allows herself to be completely succumbed by her character, delivering a very brave and difficult performance that consisted of dancing, silent acting and true dramatic tragedy. The only thing missing from this film are the statues that await it.

Best Picture
Best Director - Peter Bogdanovich
Best Actress - Jena Malone
Best Actor - David Strathairn
Best Supporting Actor - Sean Penn
Best Supporting Actor - Paul Giammati
Best Supporting Actress - Jane Fonda
Best Original Screenplay - Larry McMurtry & Peter Bogdanovich
Best Cinematography - Bruno Delbonnel (The Cat's Meow, Infamous)
Best Score - Ian Whitcomb
Best Editing - Michael Ruscio (Sopranos)
Best Costume Design - Colleen Atwood (Chicago)

The Job Search

Authors: Connor Campbell
Location: Texas

"The Job Search"

Directed by Christopher Guest
Written by Christopher Guest & Eugene Levy
Distributed by Warner Brothers

Principal Cast:

Fred Willard- James Peed
Jane Lynch- Karen Adams
Christopher Guest- John Saunders
Parker Posey- Amelia Stallworth
Eugene Levy- Randall Deane
Catherine O’ Hara- Janice Albertson
Ricky Gervais- Allen Walton
Jennifer Coolidge- Melissa Corrigan Swanson Dubois Peed
Michael Hitchcock- Matthew Stewart
John Michael Higgins- Julian Eriksson
Ed Begley Jr. - Simon Marks
Larry Miller- Ryan Simpson
Rachael Harris- Vanessa Kelley
Deborah Theaker- Star Birdfeather
Jim Piddock- Gary Moore
Michael McKean- Shawn Herald
Don Lake- Michael Zimmerman
Paul Dooley- George Campbell
Bob Balaban- Brian Young (executive producer)
Harry Shearer- Donald Quinn (executive producer)

Tagline: "14 contestants, 14 challenges, 1 job, somewhat unscripted"

Synopsis: From the people who brought you, Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind & For Your Consideration comes a hilarious parody on The Apprentice. The story follows James Peed, a billionaire and owner of Peed Realty International. After a slump in sales, while watching Survivor, his wife Melissa demands that he make a reality show in fear of loosing enough money to require her to have a budget. He develops The Assistant, a job-search show that is a hit in the ratings. This movie shows the contestants living together and competing in teams and as individuals for the job. With James’s most trusted assistants, Karen & John help him eliminate contestants based on their performance on that week’s challenge. After performing outlandish challenges who will win? Will it be Amelia, the spawn of Satan, Randall; the ugly man who thinks he’s beautiful, Star, the hippie, or maybe Vanessa, who’s sleeping with 2 of the producers (Brian & Donald). This “mockumentary” will shock you & make you piss your pants.

What the press would say:

Holy Crap! This is the funniest film I’ve ever seen! Guest & Levy have written a comedic masterpiece. It will cause laughs, tears & lawsuits. Fred Willard gives the comedic performance of a lifetime and is sure to get an Oscar nod. Jennifer Coolidge as a selfish trophy wife is the perfect role for her. Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara & Rachael Harris deliver hilarious performances but Parker Posey steals the show. Jane Lynch wowed me with her portrayal of Karen.

Best Picture
Best Director- Christopher Guest
Best Actor- Fred Willard
Best Actress- Jennifer Coolidge
Best Actress- Jane Lynch
Best Supporting Actor- Eugene Levy
Best Supporting Actress- Rachael Harris
Best Supporting Actress- Catherine O’Hara
Best Supporting Actress- Parker Posey
Best Original Screenplay- Christopher Guest & Eugene Levy
Best Art Direction
Best Cinematography

The John Titor Story

Authors: Tony
Location: Pittsburgh

"The John Titor Story"

Directed by Peter Weir
Produced by Scott Rudin
Written by Eric Roth
Music by Howard Shore

Principal Cast:

John Titor: Jim Carrey
Carrie Wilks: Reese Witherspoon
Perry Wilks: William Hurt
Detective Xaiver Pettite: Gary Oldman
Dr. Quinn Christison: Rutger Hauer
Robert Ness: Christopher Plummer
JD Bland: David Krumholtz

Tagline: If you can convince yourself you're a time traveler, could you convince the world?

Synopsis: Based on the true events on an Internet bulletin board during the late 2000's, a man had signed himself onto this board by the screen name "Timetravel_0". Although this wasn't any normal discussion seeker looking for a chat. This person told a story about his life now...and in the future. He was convinced that he was a soldier who was sent to the year 2000 from the year 2036, on a special government mission to travel back in time to recover an IBM 5100, a portable computer that he claimed was the solution to debug various legacy computer programs in 2036. However on the side note he left this fortunate board with other information. He predicted that a World War III would erupt in the year 2015. After all these predictions the board members started asking questions, which were replied with very knowledgable and convincing answers. Later on this man would proclaim himself as John Titor. He would post pictures of his time machine on the site for the public to see. It is perhaps the most convincing story the world has ever received about time travel. In the year 2001, John Titor disappeared from the board after 3 months of questioning and curiosity, he was never heard from again.

Although all this happened over an internet board, this film takes these events and makes it into into a real life drama about a man who tried to convince the world of what he is, and his actions. Jim Carrey plays the role of John Titor, whose truly only believer is a woman he had met in a local appliance store, Carrie Wilks, played by Reese Witherspoon. Although skeptical at first, father of Carrie, Perry Wilks, played by William Hurt, becomes convinced of the unusual mans beliefs. Gary Oldman plays the antagonist Detective who will stop at nothing to proof Titors a fraud. Rutger Hauer plays the psychiatrist who questions Titor and takes him back to the future, flashbacks from Titors world. Christopher Plummer plays the multi-millionaire who owns most of the city, that wants to keep the hype of a time traveler down for his own sake and the cities sake. And finally, the film opens up with David Krumholtz, the young man with an account on the board that discovers the man and the myth known as John Titor.

What the press would say:

"The Story of John Titor" is a scientific, light comedic, adventure through a mans mind and how the world would react if he had went more public with his beliefs. Jim Carrey prooves once again he doesn't need to make funny faces and act loony to be known to the acting community, could be a dark horse in the Academy votes. Oldman still has the eye to play the hateful villain and should nail the Supporting role, one of which he was robbed from in "The Professional". As always William Hurt, the underrated former Academy Award winner is convincing as the questionable father to the always adorable and compassionate Reese Witherspoon. "The Story of John Titor" makes you think that what if events like this have existed? What if the people they considered crazy were actually telling the truth with very convincing evidence? When it all comes down to it, who would believe them? Be ready for the controversial November release that is just aching for the truth.

Best Director: Peter Weir
Best Actress in Leading: Reese Witherspoon
Best Actor in Leading: Jim Carrey
Best Actor in Supporting: Gary Oldman, William Hurt
Best Original Screenplay: Eric Roth

Justin and Danielle

Authors: Douglas Reese
Location: Clarksville, OH

"Justin and Danielle"

Directed by Sam Mendes
Written by James Mangold
Music by Thomas Newman
Produced by Sam Mendes
Original Song: "Firedrops" performed by Enya

Principal Cast:

George Clooney...David Grondin
Jennifer Lopez...Maria Sanchez
Jake Gyllenhaal...Jeffrey Baldwin
Reese Witherspoon...Helen Baldwin
Zac Efron...Logan Baldwin
Becca Gardner...Casey Baldwin
Jason Ritter...James Shane
Kevin Zegers...William
Julianne Moore...Sandra Grondin

Tagline: "It really is a small world after all!"

Synopsis: When his wife Sandra commits suicide two years earlier, David Grondin begins to learn to accept her death and begins writing a new story about the happy moments he had with Sandra under the alias names Justin and Danielle. After he begins wrapping up with the books fictional happy ending, Sandra's son Jeffrey Baldwin needs help with his family. Jeffrey hasrecently became crippled in his right hand after smashing it with a two pound hammer. He has been disabled from getting another job ever since. His wife Helen is having trouble working and is threatening to get a divorce, after Jeffrey discovers she is having an affair with her sister's ex-husband's son William. Jeffrey is also having problems with the fact that his son Logan telling him he thinks he is gay and in love with a fellow school student. His daughter Casey is having problems with a man he met on the internet.

That man is James Shane, a 25-year-old married man who thinks he is in love with a 19-year-old girl who Casey is posing as. Casey doesn't know that James is the neighbor to David, and is engaged to Maria Sanchez, a puerto rican dancer who is deeply in love with James (since he is younger), but still has a small sexual crave for David next door. Maria will sometimes wink at David and at times act as if she is talking to him and doing sexual things to herself and other appliances. David knows Maria wants him but can't do it for several understandable reasons. And when Jeffrey is kicked out of his house without any reach to his kids, he stays at David's. That is when many of the character's discover secrets about the other, and it all blisters each other's lives when something bad happens to another. Ending with a fascinating montage of how all of the character's lives turned out, shadowed by a haunting new song performed by Enya.

What the press would say:

The critics hail the movie as the best ensemble film in the past five years and hail it for how well it does in letting you care for its characters in its 115-minute running time. George Clooney is hailed as "wonderful", Jennifer Lopez is "surprisingly strong" with one of the most believable performances of the year, Jake Gyllenhaal gives "a performance to get an Oscar" and "proves he is up there with the greats", and Reese Witherspoon is "a wonder". Young actors Zac Efron and Becca Gadner are both highly praised, as is Jason Ritter, Kevin Zegers, and shown in flashbacks and old home movies, Julianne Moore "shines"! It has appeared on over 80 critics top 10 lists of the year including Ebert and Roeper's who both gave it "Two Thumbs Enthusiastically Up!" Movie critics Roger Ebert and Peter Travers named it the "best film of the year!" The film was also nominated for many Academy Awards. Leonard Maltin says "director Sam Mendes' film is better than the already classic American Beauty"! And according to the Oscars, it really is!

Best Picture
Best Director - Mendes
Best Original Screenplay
Best Supporting Actor - Ritter
Best Supporting Actor - Gyllenhaal
Best Supporting Actress - Moore
Best Supporting Actress - Lopez
Best Film Editing
Best Song - "Firedrops" performed by Enya

The King: The Live Action Movie

Authors: Eric
Location: New Jersey

"The King: The Live Action Movie"
(Based off of the Lion King but with humans)

Produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer
Directed by Gore Verbinski
Written by Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio
Original Music by Hans Zimmer
Cinematography by Dariusz Wolski
Editing by Stephen E. Rivkin and Craig Wood

Principal Cast:

Young Simba ? Freddy Highmore
Adult Simba ? Johnny Depp
King Mufasa ? Liam Neeson
Scar ? Ralph Fiennes
Young Nala ? Emma Watson
Adult Nala ? Keira Knightley
Pumba ? Steve Carrell
Timon ? Will Ferrell
Priest Rafiki ? Morgan Freeman
Zazu the Butler ? Martin Short
Queen Sarabi ? Emma Thompson
Shenzi ? Joe Pesci
Banzai ? Michael Clarke Duncan
Ed ? Johnny Knoxville
Sarafina, Nala?s Mother ? Kate Winslet

Tagline: "On December 25, 2007, there will be a new King in town"

Synopsis: Based off of the Animated Disney Movie, this version of the Lion King takes place in England in a normal village. The village is ran by the King (played by Liam Neeson) until his evil brother Scar (played by Ralph Fiennes) figures out a way to murder his brother and frame his nephew Simba (played by Freddy Highmore). Once the plan is done, Simba flees the village following orders of his uncle and runs into two lifemates on the street, Timon and Pumba (played by Will Ferrell and Steve Carrell). Simba starts growing up by the sides of these men while his village is being torn apart by Uncle Scar and his evil sidekicks (played by Pesci, Duncan, and Knoxville). One amazing day though, Simba?s childhood friend, now all grownup Nala (played by Keira Knightley), is walking in the streets and accidentally bumps into him and tries to convince Simba to save the village. Simba does not feel right about going back to the village because he is afraid that he is still at guilt for his father?s death. Simba has to make the choice of his life to start a revolution against his uncle or just to sit back with his two buddies Timon and Pumba and do nothing about it letting his friends and family suffer? What will Simba do? Priest Rafiki played by Morgan Freeman narrates the movie.

What the press would say:

Who ever thought this accomplishment in movies would be possible. Jerry Bruckheimer and the Pirates of the Caribbean team take this animated movie and put it into real people and real life situations making the viewer believe that the movie is really happening in real life. Johnny Depp does it again putting his most dramatic performance yet in a movie still having a couple perks every now and then. The team of Steve Carrell and Will Ferrell has been at an all time high as well. We laughed harder at their take of the characters than the original Nathan Lane and Ernie Sabella take of the two. Ralph Fiennes is perfect for the role of Scar as well. And when everything is going right with this movie the Casting Director picked the best person to narrate the movie, Morgan Freeman.

Nominations:
Best Picture
Best Actor: Johnny Depp
Best Supporting Actor: Will Ferrell
Best Supporting Actor: Steve Carrell
Best Supporting Actor: Ralph Fiennes
Best Supporting Actress: Keira Knightley
Best Director: Gore Verbinski
Best Adapted Screenplay
Best Original Score

The Last Express

Authors: Gabriel
Location: unknown

"The Last Express"

Directed by Jordan Mechner
Written by Jordan Mechner
Score by Elia Cmiral

Principal Cast:

Ewan McGregor as Robert Cath
Sibel Kekilli as Anna Wolff
Karl-Heinz Teuber as August Schmidt
Nikola Kojo as Milos Jovanovich
Don Cheadle as Kronos

Tagline: "Those passengers will never arrive in Constantinople"

Synopsis: Based on the computer game of the same name, Robert Cath (McGregor), an American doctor on the run from French police, illegally boards the Orient Express in June of 1914, right after the Archduke of Austria is shot, at the invitation of his friend Tyler Whitney (Jude Law). Onboard the train, Cath finds Tyler brutally murdered and has to assume his identity. He then meets a whole other cast of characters, among them a crooked German arms dealer (Teuber), an African prince (Cheadle), a Serbian terrorist (Kojo), and an Austrian spy (Kekilli). While the world falls apart around him, Cath must figure out what each person means, arrive to Constantinople safely, and, lastly, find out who killed Tyler. Featuring cameos by Michael Caine (as British businessman George Abbott) and Chulpan Khamatova (as delicate Russian aristocrat Tatiana Obolenskaya).

What the press would say:

Even though the computer game was lost to time, this movie sure isn’t. A normally superb acting job by McGregor, with standout performances from mainstream film novices Kekilli, Teuber, and Kojo, really helps this film in all its brilliance. But it is director Jordan Mechner that makes it what it is: a masterpiece. Every line of dialogue is intriguing and the set design is beautiful. With all cylinders firing, this movie comes together in a way that we haven’t seen in a long time. In this age of film when none are stand-outs, this one should break that curse-of-sorts. In short, anybody who loves the game should love the film and vice-versa. In fact, everybody should love this film. It’s just that good.

For Your Consideration:

Best Picture
Best Director (Jordan Mechner)
Best Actor (Ewan McGregor)
Best Supporting Actor (Karl-Heinz Teuber)
Best Supporting Actress (Sibel Kekilli)
Best Adapted Screenplay (Jordan Mechner)
Best Art Direction
Best Cinematography
Best Costume Design
Best Makeup
Best Visual Effects

Lime Juice

Authors: Jack
Location: Connecticut

"Lime Juice"

Directed by Robert Altman
Written by David Hare
Music by James Horner

Principal Cast:

Limes as Themselves
Halle Berry as Queen Hatshepsut of Egypt
Ken Watanabe as Emperor Wu of Han China
Adam Beach as Emperor Acamapichtli of the Aztecs
Samantha Morton as Mary, Queen of Scots
Temuera Morrison as Potatau I of the Maori
Cree Summer as a Lime
Joaquin Phoenix as a Lime
Cher as a Lime
Michael Clarke Duncan as a lime

Tagline: "They observed"

Synopsis: Five monarchs from five different continents at five different times are observed by the limes on trees in their courts. The first story involves Hatshepsut (Halle Berry) in her struggle to be taken as seriously as a male Pharaoh. The next story concentrates on Emperor Wu of Han China (Ken Watanabe) and his military campaigns which greatly expanded China's influence, but his early life, reign and decisions were dominated by his mother and grandmother. His later reign saw him abusing his power and becoming increasingly paranoid, executing many generals on charges of witchcraft. The third story is about Acamapichtli (Adam Beach), Emperor of the Aztecs. He was born into a noble family, and was given the position of governor at 20, and soon given the throne. Acamapichtli saw his city rapidly fell into the foreign orbit and became a vassal of another country. He took back control of the city and improved the architecture and agriculture. The fourth story concerns young Mary, Queen of Scots (Samantha Morton) struggling to control her life while being married the Dauphin (and later king), Prince François, and living in the royal court of France while balancing two crowns. The last story is about the first Maori King, Potatau I (Temuera Morrison). Born a child of two important Maori chieftains, he was heavily involved in tribal warring in his early years. In the 1850's, a movement to unite the Maori people began. Potatau was been selected as King by a meeting of chiefs. His reign saw cooperation with other governments, pomp, and extravagance. He died in a time of peace.

What the press would say:

In a movie on par with The Hours and If These Walls Could Talk, the lives of five monarchs are seen through the point of view of limes. The monarchs are played brilliantly and dramatically by five talented actors. The limes add their quips and thoughts throughout the movie, voiced by some very talented and well known actors. They add a light touch to a poignant and dramatic film. The performances are a breath of fresh air, with new takes on what the royalty thought and said during times of strife. Lime Juice is a new and inventive film, the likes of which Hollywood has never seen.

Awards Potential :

Best Picture
Best Actress (Morton, Berry)
Best Actor (Watanabe, Beach, Morrison)
Best Original Screenplay (David Hare)
Best Director (Robert Altman)

Man of La Mancha

Authors: Alex
Location: Washington State

"Man of La Mancha"

Directed by Rob Marshall
Apapted to the screen by Bil Condon
Music by Mitch Leigh

Principal Cast:

Richard Gere (Don Quixote/Miguel de Cervantes)
Catherine Zeta-Jones (Dulcinea)
Alfred Molina (Sancho)

Tagline: "Dream the Impossible Dream"

Synopsis: The hit Broadway musical based on Miguel de Cervantes's novel Don Quixote is brilliantly adapted for the screen by director/writer team Rob Marshall (Chicago) and Bill Condon (Dreamgirls) with Richard Gere (Chicago) in the title role, and Catherine Zeta-Jones (Chicago) as Dulcinea, and Alfred Molina (Broadway’s Fiddler on the Roof) as his devoted sidekick, Sancho. Classic songs include "The Impossible Dream," "I'm Only Thinking of Him," "Dulcinea" and many others.

What the press would say:

While often funny, the subject matter is quite serious, as are the questions it asks: Is believing in truth, beauty, justice, honor, just a mad delusion? Is it better to see things as they are, or as they should be. Does art have worth? and many others. Add to this wonderful music and a great cast and you've got magic!

Best Picture
Best Director: Marshall
Best Actor: Gere
Best Actress: Zeta-Jones
Best Supporting Actor: Molina

Marilyn

Author: Steven
Location: Louisiana

"Marilyn"

Directed by: Oliver Stone
Written by: Akiva Goldsman
Score by: Hans Zimmer

Principal Cast:

Naomi Watts (Marilyn Monroe)
Dakota Fanning (young Marilyn Monroe)
Drew Barrymore (Gladys Pearl Monroe)
Jake Gyllenhaal (James Dougherty)
Adrien Brody (Joe DiMaggio)
Liam Neeson (Arthur Miller)
Leonardo DiCaprio (John F. Kennedy)
Matt Damon (Robert Kennedy)

Tagline: "She didn't want to make money. She just wanted to be wonderful"

Synopsis: This is an amazing portrait of the life of Marilyn Monroe: one of the 20th century's most famous movie stars, sex symbols, and pop icons. Born Norma Jeane Mortenson, Marilyn Monroe was raised by her mother, Gladys Pearl Monroe. The film chronicles her life as a model and a difficult actress to work with. The film also follows her marriages to James Dougherty, Joe DiMaggio, and Arthur Miller. It also looks at the conspiracy surrounding her apparent suicide, and her affairs with Robert and John Kennedy.

What the press would say:

"Marilyn" is being hailed as the best biopic of the year! Naomi Watts is sensational! She is the only actress that could have pulled off this role. Surely, "Marilyn" will have no problem receiving much attention this awards season.

For Your Consideration:

Best Picture
Best Director (Oliver Stone)
Best Actress (Naomi Watts)
Best Supporting Actor (Adrien Brody, Leonardo DiCaprio)
Best Original Screenplay (Akiva Goldsman)
Best Film Editing
Best Makeup
Best Score
Best Costume Design


Best Adapted Screenplay: Condon
Best Score: Leigh


Best Original Score (James Horner)
As well as Other Technical Categories