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The VHS Strikes Back Whatever Entertainment
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Nostalgic movie review show hosted by Whatever Entertainment team, Dave and Chris. The guys go back in time to review some wonderful and truly awful movies from the days before streaming and even DVD's and had to go to the video store to pick up the latest entertainment.
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The Game (1997)
Dave's chosen another Blockbusters special from the late 1990's with David Fincher's The Game.
The Game (1997) was marked by meticulous attention to detail and innovative filmmaking techniques that brought the film's complex and suspenseful narrative to life. Fincher, known for his distinctive visual style and penchant for psychological thrillers, collaborated closely with screenwriters John Brancato and Michael Ferris to craft a screenplay that kept audiences guessing until the very end. The film's production involved extensive location shooting in various iconic settings, including San Francisco, which added to the atmospheric backdrop of the story.
The cast, led by Michael Douglas and Sean Penn, brought depth and authenticity to their roles, contributing to the film's immersive and emotionally resonant experience. Additionally, Fincher's visionary direction and mastery of suspenseful storytelling techniques, such as inventive camera work and clever editing, heightened the tension and kept audiences on the edge of their seats throughout the film. The Game stands as a testament to Fincher's skill as a filmmaker and remains a beloved entry in the thriller genre, known for its mind-bending twists and thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche.
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Plot Summary:
Nicholas Van Orton is a wealthy and emotionally distant investment banker who receives an unusual birthday gift from his brother Conrad. The gift is an invitation to participate in a mysterious game orchestrated by a secretive organization known as Consumer Recreation Services (CRS). As Nicholas delves deeper into the game, he finds himself trapped in a surreal and increasingly dangerous series of events that blur the lines between reality and fiction. Unsure whom to trust and unable to distinguish between the game and real life, Nicholas embarks on a harrowing journey of self-discovery that forces him to confront his deepest fears and reevaluate his priorities.
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Red Rock West (1993)
Chris has gone back to a little-known indie movie from 1993, with Red Rock West and starring Nicolas Cage, Dennis Hopper, Lara Flynn Boyle and J.T. Walsh.
Red Rock West (1993), directed by John Dahl, was produced as an independent neo-noir thriller that defied genre conventions and captivated audiences with its suspenseful narrative and gritty atmosphere. The film's production was marked by its modest budget and resourceful filmmaking techniques, with Dahl and his team making the most of limited resources to create a taut and engaging thriller. Despite facing challenges associated with independent filmmaking, including tight schedules and financial constraints, the production team remained committed to bringing the film's compelling story to life.
Red Rock West benefited from the talents of its cast whose nuanced performances added depth and authenticity to the film's characters. Filming took place on location in various small towns in Montana, contributing to the film's authentic Western aesthetic and enhancing its sense of realism. The film's success as a gripping and tightly plotted thriller, combined with its critical acclaim and cult following, solidified its place as a standout entry in the neo-noir genre and a testament to the power of independent filmmaking.
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Plot Summary:
Michael Williams is a down-on-his-luck drifter who mistakenly finds himself embroiled in a web of deceit and danger in the small town of Red Rock, Wyoming. When mistaken for a hitman hired by the town's corrupt sheriff, Michael is offered money to carry out a murder. Torn between morality and temptation, Michael becomes entangled in a dangerous game involving the sheriff's wife and the real hitman, Lyle from Dallas. As the stakes escalate and the danger intensifies, Michael must navigate a treacherous landscape of lies and betrayal to survive.
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Beetlejuice (1988)
Lucky Loo Loo Green chose this week's pick and it's Tim Burton classic from 1988, Beetlejuice!
Beetlejuice was characterized by its unique blend of dark humor, fantasy, and inventive visual style. Tim Burton, known for his distinctive aesthetic and offbeat storytelling, brought his imaginative vision to the project, infusing it with his trademark whimsy and macabre sensibility. Collaborating with screenwriters Michael McDowell and Warren Skaaren, Burton crafted a screenplay that balanced humor with horror and fantasy elements, creating a bizarre and captivating world.
The film's production also benefited from the creative talents of its cast, including Michael Keaton as the eccentric Beetlejuice, Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis as the hapless Maitland couple, and Winona Ryder as the gothic teenager Lydia Deetz. The elaborate sets, innovative practical effects, and colorful costume design contributed to the film's distinct visual aesthetic, transporting audiences to a fantastical world filled with eccentric characters and supernatural occurrences. Despite initial skepticism from studio executives, Beetlejuice went on to become a critical and commercial success, solidifying its status as a beloved cult classic and a defining entry in Tim Burton's filmography.
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Plot Summary:
Recently deceased couple, Adam and Barbara Maitland, find themselves trapped in their home as ghosts. When a new family, the Deetzes, moves in and plans to renovate the house, the Maitlands attempt to scare them away. However, their efforts prove futile, leading them to reluctantly seek the help of the eccentric and mischievous "bio-exorcist" Beetlejuice. As Beetlejuice wreaks havoc on the Deetzes and their guests, the Maitlands realize they've made a deal with a dangerous and unpredictable force.
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One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)
Supporter Stephen had picked The Conversation last time around and we're going back to the 70's again with One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest this week.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975), directed by Milos Forman, was a landmark production that brought Ken Kesey's celebrated novel to the screen. The film's production was marked by numerous challenges, including securing the rights to Kesey's novel, which had been previously adapted into a successful stage play. Forman collaborated closely with screenwriters Lawrence Hauben and Bo Goldman to adapt the complex narrative into a compelling screenplay. Additionally, casting the lead role of Randle McMurphy was a significant task, with Jack Nicholson ultimately chosen for his charismatic and dynamic portrayal of the rebellious anti-hero. The film also featured a talented ensemble cast, including Louise Fletcher as Nurse Ratched and Danny DeVito, who contributed to the film's authenticity and emotional depth.
Filming took place primarily at the Oregon State Hospital, lending an authentic and immersive backdrop to the story's psychiatric setting. Forman's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to balance the film's darkly comedic elements with its underlying social commentary contributed to its critical and commercial success. "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" became a cultural phenomenon, earning widespread acclaim, including five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Nicholson. Its enduring legacy as a cinematic masterpiece continues to resonate with audiences, cementing its place in film history as one of the greatest achievements in American cinema.
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Plot Summary:
Randle McMurphy is a rebellious and charismatic inmate who feigns mental illness to avoid hard labor in prison. McMurphy is transferred to a psychiatric hospital where he clashes with the tyrannical Nurse Ratched and befriends his fellow patients, including the meek Billy Bibbit and the silent Chief Bromden. McMurphy's defiance and unorthodox behavior inspire the patients to rebel against Nurse Ratched's oppressive rule, leading to a dramatic confrontation that exposes the power dynamics and injustices within the institution.
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The Castle (1997)
Blake's last few picks have been eclectic with the likes of Beowulf, Bad Boy Bubby and The Room. So when it came to this week's pick of The Castle from 1997, Chris and Dave had no idea what to expect. Was it a stich-up (no pun intended on the Director), or a potential gem? Listen to find out!
The Castle was produced as a low-budget Australian comedy directed by Rob Sitch, and it became a surprise hit, gaining widespread acclaim both domestically and internationally. The production was characterized by its grassroots approach, with a focus on capturing the authentic charm and humor of everyday Australian life. Sitch and his team assembled a talented cast of actors, including Michael Caton, Anne Tenney, and Stephen Curry, who brought depth and authenticity to the characters of the Kerrigan family. The film's success can be attributed to its relatable storyline, witty dialogue, and endearing characters, which resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Despite its modest budget, the production of The Castle benefited from its resourceful filmmaking techniques and creative storytelling. The film was shot on location in Melbourne and surrounding areas, utilizing real-life settings to enhance the film's sense of authenticity. Sitch and his team also employed a documentary-style approach, incorporating handheld camerawork and naturalistic performances to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The success of The Castle demonstrated the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of heartfelt comedies that celebrate the ordinary joys of family and home.
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Plot Summary:
Patriarch Darryl Kerrigan lives with his family in a modest house near an airport runway. The Kerrigans find themselves facing eviction when the government plans to seize their property for an expansion project. Determined to fight for their home and their way of life, Darryl takes on the powerful authorities in a David-versus-Goliath battle. With the support of his quirky and lovable family, including his wife Sal and their children, Darryl embarks on a legal and comedic journey to prove that their humble abode is more than just a house—it's their castle.
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The Devil's Advocate (1997)
After last week's debacle of a movie with Chris' Assault on Devil's Island pick, Dave's decided to go with more of a classic in the same year with The Devil's Advocate.
Directed by Taylor Hackford, this production involved assembling a stellar cast, with Keanu Reeves in the lead role as Kevin Lomax, alongside Al Pacino, Charlize Theron, and Jeffrey Jones. The film, adapted from Andrew Neiderman's novel, explores themes of morality, ambition, and the supernatural within the context of a legal drama. Hackford worked closely with screenwriters Jonathan Lemkin and Tony Gilroy to bring a visually striking and intellectually stimulating narrative to the screen. Filming took place in various locations, including New York City, adding an authentic backdrop to the story's urban setting.
The movie faced challenges in balancing the supernatural elements with the psychological and legal aspects of the plot. The film's portrayal of the seductive allure of success and power was heightened by Al Pacino's captivating performance as John Milton, the charismatic but diabolical boss. The production team utilized practical effects and elaborate set designs to create visually stunning sequences, particularly in conveying the surreal and hellish visions that Reeves' character experiences. With its intricate storyline, atmospheric cinematography, and powerful performances, "The Devil's Advocate" aimed to delve into moral complexities while delivering a thrilling and visually engaging cinematic experience.
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Plot Summary:
Ambitious attorney Kevin Lomax rises to prominence in a powerful New York law firm led by the charismatic and enigmatic John Milton. As Lomax becomes entangled in the seductive world of wealth, success, and high-stakes legal cases, he gradually discovers the dark and supernatural truth behind Milton's façade.
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