Tag: Raiders of the Lost Ark

Geekscape Movie Reviews: The BFG

by MCDave

Stephen Spielberg is a filmmaker that needs no introduction. The two-time Oscar-winning director boasts a never-ending list of credentials that extends well beyond his most acclaimed classics like Saving Private Ryan, Schindler’s List, Raiders of the Lost Ark and Jaws. And with today’s release of Spielberg’s massively anticipated adaptation of Roald Dahl’s children’s tale, The BFG, he adds another successful title to his long, storied career.

Sophie (Ruby Barnhill) is a young orphan living in London who suffers from a self proclaimed bit of insomnia. One evening, while wandering around the orphanage at all hours of the night, she encounters a lovable giant named BFG (voice of Mark Rylance) dancing along the streets outside her bedroom window. BFG snatches Sophie from her room and introduces the girl to a secret world of other giants and the whimsical source of all our nightly dreams.

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Based on the source material alone, The BFG is a story that’s truly suitable for audiences of all ages. Couple that with masterful direction through the singular eye of legendary filmmaker, Steven Spielberg, and you’ve got an instant-classic. In fact, I’ll go out on a limb and declare The BFG as Spielberg’s finest film since his 2002 crime comedy, Catch Me If You Can. It’s his majestic perspective that magnifies an already solid tale filled with grand visual effects and a charming adventure. Mark Rylance, who won an Oscar himself at the hands of Spielberg’s Bridge of Spies just last year, provides the voice and soul behind the titular character. Yet, it’s the exceptional turn by youngster Ruby Barnhill that brings the entire film together. Her delivery is organic and fits the role extremely well. With so many shining qualities surrounding The BFG, Spielberg offers another brilliant effort.

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It’s difficult identifying glaring faults to the film, but I will admit that I was slightly underwhelmed by the children-eating giants who oppose BFG. They serve their purpose, but their inclusions in the film are merely mediocre at best. Furthermore, there are a few sluggish moments spaced far apart in this long but otherwise engaging journey. While The BFG has a few minor blemishes, they pass along fairly unnoticed thanks to an abundance of other amazing attributes.

Steven Spielberg’s The BFG is a wonderful adaptation that’s enjoyable for the entire family. Bursting with humor, heart and energy, there are so many special components that make this film one of 2016’s finest. You won’t find another film in theaters that will top Spielberg’s The BFG, so heed my advice and check it out. You won’t be disappointed.

GRADE: 4/5

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Geekscape 412: Raiding Into Theaters With Chris Strompolos!

by Jonathan

Chris Strompolos is no stranger to Geekscape! The last time he was on the show he was pushing the Kickstarter to complete one of his life’s projects: a shot for shot remake of ‘The Raiders Of The Lost Ark’ that he started with his friend Eric Zala when they were in middle school! Now, Chris and Eric are embarking on another adventure… a huge tour to not only promote the finished remake but also the documentary about the making of it and the companion book! Plus, Chris gives us his thoughts on the young Han Solo casting and how there will never be another Harrison Ford!

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Geekscape Movie Reviews: Bridge of Spies

by MCDave

Whenever the great Steven Spielberg takes a seat in the director’s chair, audiences worldwide watch intently in hopes of another epic masterpiece. That comes with the territory when you’re a two-time Academy Award winning filmmaker. But even though Spielberg has cemented his legacy with classics like Schindler’s List, Saving Private Ryan, Raiders of the Lost Ark and E.T., it’s unreasonable to confuse his latest winning effort, Bridge of Spies, with these other exceptional films.

After insurance lawyer, James Donovan (Tom Hanks), is handed the undesirable task of defending a newly arrested Soviet spy (Mark Rylance) during the height of the Cold War, his dedication to The Constitution and his belief that his client deserves a fair trial turn Donovan into a social target. But when an American pilot is shot down and captured by Soviet forces, Donovan must venture to Europe and negotiate an exchange of prisoners between these two enemies. With an entire nation relying on his efforts, Donovan must put his greatest bargaining skills to the test.

There are plenty of highlights surrounding Steven Spielberg’s finest motion picture in over a decade, but perhaps none shine brighter than a terrific collaborative screenplay from Mark Charman and the Coen brothers. Their charming and witty dialogue form the foundation for this Oscar destined feature. And who better to bring these words to life then the greatest living actor, Tom Hanks? The two-time Academy Award winning actor shows he still has the skills to compete with the best as he nails the performance and makes a strong case for contending in the wide-open Best Actor race. But despite the massive amount of screen time devoted to Hanks’ James Donovan character, supporting star Mark Rylance does an outstanding job of standing toe to toe with his highly regarded counterpart. Rylance’s exceptional turn as a detained Soviet spy becomes so memorable that he feels like a safe bet in the Supporting Actor competition. Bridge of Spies also benefits from sound direction at the hands of Steven Spielberg, leaving the film as another all-around solid effort from the legendary director.

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Although engaging dialogue and impressive performances sustain Bridge of Spies, the feature also suffers in a few notable areas. The intriguing true story being examined is actually quite simplistic. However, in typical Spielberg fashion, he finds a way to out-stretch the series of events into an unnecessary two hour and twenty minute affair. By the closing moments you’ll be begging for the credits to roll and it’s an unfortunate reality. In addition, after a gripping opening sequence that works perfectly on all levels, the film finds itself completely fixated on Tom Hanks and his character, James Donovan. Consequently, all of the difficult circumstances surrounding the captured U.S. pilot are blatantly overlooked and make it extremely difficult for the audience to forge a connection when these time-sensitive negotiations begin. Clearly these blemishes prevent Bridge of Spies from being an instant classic, yet the film still manages to do a stellar job of entertaining the viewer.

In what has become a recurring theme with 2016’s lackluster collection of releases, Steven Spielberg’s Bridge of Spies culminates as another good, but certainly not great, title. The film is worthy of a viewing for its Oscar-caliber performances from Hanks and Rylance, but just make sure to temper your expectations.

GRADE: 4/5

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Crowdfund This: Help The ‘Raiders Of The Lost Ark: The Adaptation’ Team Film The Airplane Scene!

by Derek Kraneveldt

The Raiders Guys are back!

We hosted Chris and Eric back in 2012, just as Alan Eisenstock’s awesome tell-all book was hitting store shelves. The duo is well known as the creators of the ‘best fan film ever made’, as they took seven years (yep, seven) of their childhood to painstakingly recreate almost every shot of Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Here’s more info about the film, via the trailer for the book:

Chris and Eric shot every single scene, and every single stunt from the film, minus one. Eric explains “The Flying Wing Scene.   Yep, that awesome sequence where Indy fights the bald Nazi under the moving airplane.  In our ten years of screenings, people have been urging us to do it.  And so, the idea of adding the ultimate mythological bookend to our childhood saga has brought us back together – the team is stronger than ever.  ”

Now, after 25 years, and as a set piece for Jeremy Coon’s upcoming documentary about the adaptation, Chris, Eric, and the rest of the Raiders Adaptation crew want to complete the film… but they need our help. They would love to hit their stretch goal of $125,000, but their Kickstarter goal is a meager $50,000, and with 29 days to go they’re already over 10% of the way there.

As always, there are amazing rewards up for grabs here, including digital downloads of the film (old and new editions), DVD’s, books, t-shirts, storyboards, even props or a screening in your city.

Check out the Kickstarter video for the campaign below, and let us know if you’ll be backing this incredible project. Have you had a chance to see the adaptation yet?

Geekscape 269: Raiders of the Lost Ark – The Adaptation!

by Jonathan

As 12 year olds growing up in Mississippi in the 1980s, Chris Strompolos and Eric Zala first saw ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’. Their lives would be changed forever as they set out over the next 7 years to remake the Spielberg classic shot for shot. Now known as “the best fan film ever made”, ‘Raiders: The Adaptation’ has been seen by thousands and celebrated around the world. I sat down with Chris and Eric to talk about making the film, how it changed their lives, the new book that documents their entire journey and more!

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‘Raiders Of The Lost Ark’ Coming To IMAX For One Week In September!

by Shawn Madden

Yesterday we announced that it was going to be happening. Well, now we have all the details for you guys. Paramount Home Media Distribution and IMAX Corporation announced today that Raiders Of The Lost Ark will be hitting IMAX theaters for the first time ever on September 7th for a one-week engagement! Here’s the official press release:

The cinematic classic that introduced the world to Indiana Jones is ready to embark on a new adventure when director Steven Spielberg and executive producer George Lucas’ unforgettable Raiders of the Lost Ark is released for an exclusive one-week engagement in select IMAX® theatres beginning September 7, 2012. The film has undergone a complete restoration for the IMAX exclusive one-week release and subsequent debut on Blu-ray. Tickets and a list of participating theatres are available starting today at IMAX.com.

“When I saw the stunning quality of the picture and heard the enhanced sound in an IMAX theatre, I was quite literally blown away and hope that audiences will enjoy the experience as much as I did,” said Spielberg.

“We are honored to present all the excitement of Indiana Jones in a way it’s never been experienced before – IMAX,” said Greg Foster, Chairman & President, IMAX Filmed Entertainment. “We look forward to celebrating this iconic film with longtime fans as well as a new generation of moviegoers.”

The IMAX release of Raiders of the Lost Ark will be digitally re-mastered into the image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience® with proprietary IMAX DMR® (Digital Re-mastering) technology. The crystal-clear images coupled with IMAX’s customized theatre geometry and powerful digital audio create a unique environment that will make audiences feel as if they are in the movie.

Under the supervision of Spielberg and renowned sound designer Ben Burtt, Raiders of the Lost Ark has been meticulously restored with careful attention to preserving the original look, sound and feel of the iconic film for its highly-anticipated release on Blu-ray as part of INDIANA JONES: The Complete Adventures. Every extraordinary exploit of world-renowned, globetrotting hero Indiana Jones finally comes home in sparkling high definition on September 18, 2012 from Lucasfilm Ltd. and Paramount Home Media Distribution. In addition to all of the thrilling adventures, the set features seven hours of fascinating bonus material, including a brand new two-part documentary entitled “On Set with Raiders of the Lost Ark – From Jungle to Desert and From Adventure to Legend.” Featuring nearly an hour of rarely seen footage from the set of the film and archival interviews with Steven Spielberg, George Lucas and Harrison Ford, this captivating piece transports fans back to where the legend began.

So, you better get your tickets now! If that didn’t get you excited enough…here’s a trailer!

 


 

‘Raiders Of The Lost Ark’ Is Getting Re-Released In IMAX!

by Shawn Madden

So, were you too young to catch Raiders Of The Lost Ark in theaters the first time around? Well don’t worry because you will have your chance!  Paramount is re-releasing Steven Spielberg’s Raiders Of The Lost Ark, featuring Harrison Fords first outing as Indiana Jones, into IMAX theaters. You read that one right. Not only do you get the see the movie in theaters but you get to see it in IMAX! An official announcement hasn’t been issued by Paramount yet, but that the movie is popping up on various ticketing and theater websites as an attraction opening on Sept 7th. An announcement is expected this week, but until then we won’t know how big of a release this is going to get.  Better get ready to buy these when they go on sale and ask yourself why it had to be snakes with all of your friends.

Source: THR

Check Out These Awesome Posters From Some Awesome Movies!

by Scott Alminiana

Check out these cool posters from French artist Maxi Glob. The posters are available for purchase here. I love the Indiana Jones ones. If money was no object my house would be adorned with such things. Awww to dream…

From “Aliens” To “Blade Runner” Movie Posters Re-imagined!

by Scott Alminiana

Found these cool prints from artist Ïve Bastrash over at deviantART. He took some of the most well-known movie posters of geek-years past and re-imagined them in his very cool style. All the prints are part of his Cinemarium series. Check them out and let us know what you think!

‘Indiana Jones: The Complete Adventures’ Comic-Con Blu-Ray Trailer Shows You What To Expect

by Shawn Madden

Are you ready to re-visit a re-mastered Temple Of Doom? Well on September 18th you’re going to be able to. The trailer has Comic-Con slapped on the title so I’m pretty sure we will be seeing this one playing at booth #2913 which will feature a live snake pit. Will I be going there? No. No way at all.

Amazon currently has this listed at $74.96

You Can Now Preorder “Raiders!: The Story of the Greatest Fan Film Ever Made”

by Jonathan

I woke up this morning to an e-mail from my friend Chris Strompolos, who I’ve known for a few years and who reviewed Kingdom of the Crystal Skull with me WAY back in an early Geekscape episode!

Chris’ story is pretty amazing. When he was in highschool in the 80s, he and his best friends made what is today called The Greatest Fan Film of all time: a shot for shot remake of the original Raiders of the Lost Ark! This was back before it was on VHS… so Chris and his friends had to go to the theater more than a few times (not that they minded) and script and storyboard their film in person or from memory!

What followed is even more incredible, as the dedicated group set out over the next few years to REMAKE Raiders… almost killing themselves and burning their house down in the process. Just watch this Youtube and ask yourselves how anybody could possibly survive! It’s pretty amazing.

I love Chris’ stories. I asked these guys to come on the show and they responded with “well, we’re putting out a book on the experience so maybe we should come on when the book is about to be released.” A BOOK!?! With pictures and stories and anecdotes about a group of friends remaking one of the greatest films of all time? Fucking awesome. I can’t wait!

And to prove it, you can now PRE-ORDER the book on Amazon! And in doing so, you’ll actually save a ton on the cover price but also help the book do much better upon release.

Here’s the e-mail telling us about the book and why we should pre-order in Chris’ words:

It’s called RAIDERS! and it’s the story of the making of our movie as well as the behind-the-scenes, never-told-before story of our lives, warts and all.

It comes out November 13.  The author is Alan Eisenstock and the publisher is Thomas Dunne (an imprint of St. Martin’s Press).

We love it!  The book is hilarious, emotional, exciting, and inspiring. It’s nonfiction but reads like a novel.  After 30 years of friendship, I actually found out stuff about my best friend that I never knew… and vice-versa!  You know of many incredible true “ups” to our story. Be warned, there’s also parts where… it gets dark.  We didn’t hold back with Alan.

Daniel Clowes (Ghost World) read the manuscript and wrote, “A super-charged (parents: read with caution!) mini-epic that replaces Hollywood dazzle with something far more compelling: the agony and ecstasy of raw adolescent delirium.”

And Harry Knowles (Ain’t It Cool News) Tweeted:  “Raiders! by Alan Eisenstock is so going to own me.  I feel it already.”

Okay, the favor.

What will ultimately make or break this book’s future.

Would you, as a personal favor… pre-order it now?

Yes, I know, the book doesn’t come out for 7 months.

But in the uncertain literary world, apparently the key to success — is having people buy the book before it comes out.

The more pre-orders = better chance the book has to be a Bestseller.

Conversely, if we don’t get a lot of pre-orders, few copies will be printed, and the book will die.

That’s where you come in, again, the favor.

If you buy it now, your pre-order will be counted that first crucial week.  The more pre-orders… the more our publisher will get behind us, the more the world will notice us, the more the NY Times Bestseller list has a chance of noticing us.

To help us… and to pre-order our book… simply click on the link below — then “Pre-Order: Add to Cart”

http://www.amazon.com/Raiders-Story-Greatest-Film-Ever/dp/1250001471/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1333844434&sr=1-1

In return for doing us this really big favor, in addition to our everlasting gratitude, we make you 2 promises:

(1) you will get the book at a significant discount, around $15 per hardcover copy (normally $26), and

(2) you will enjoy a really incredible read in November.

And when RAIDERS! hits the New York Times Bestseller list in November, it will be because of you.

A heartfelt thank you for any and all support you can give.

Best wishes,

Chris Strompolos

So there you have it. An awesome story. An awesome book. An awesome price. So… why wouldn’t you pre-order it?