Who thinks Rocky is a good fighter?

I think Rocky is a great fighter. What do you think?

Why sci-fi hates dogs!

Man's best friend lives up to his namesake. so why do they die in almost every science fiction movie.Let us go through a small list.
1. Alien 3
As Ellen Ripley can't think things can get any worse, a superfacehugger attaches itself to a Rotweiler, then bursts out of it, to start a new reign of terror.
2. The Thing
If you watch this, make sure you didn't eat any waffles, you'll find it all over your shoes, later. In this film an alien arrives at an antartic science post to start havoc. The alien is in the form of a dog. The "dog" starts the horror by digesting three Huskies at ounce. Then it escapes to take on more terrifying shapes.

4. I Am Legend
In this scary post-apocalyptic thriller, the main character Robert Neville is the last human (so it would seem) in New York. His only companion can't even speak (irony, why must you be so cruel?). After a tussell with mutant dogs, Robert's only companion (it's a dog) has to be put down. (I'm a straight male and that scene got to me).
So if you own a dog of any kind give him a big HUG!

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The Real Classic Movies

AMC plays a variety of movies and films that have sort of an art in them. From the hottest sex scenes to the bloodiest battles. AMC has it all.
But I also think there is a problem in that.
Some of the movies played on AMC came so lowly recommended.
And most of the movies are so nasty in a way that you just have to look away even if there is not gore.
Some of the Hollywood icons on AMC play nasty rolls also.
Please Reply if you agree with me or if you have any comments.

Klaatu, Jesus and Science Fiction Heaven

At first glance, "The Day the Earth Stood Still" could be considered classic science fiction cheese. It's a black and white film with aliens, robots, dramatic music and fantastic weapons that make large items disappear. Throw in a boy scout, an over-the-top mother and an alien resurrection and we pretty much have the greatest drinking game ever. But to those of us who are the fans (and hold our liquor well), we know "The Day the Earth Stood Still" is not your average sci-fi film.

I have to be honest, I didn't fair too well as a contestant on Cinemania. Sure, I know some geek facts about the film but when it came to the game, I left feeling embarrassed. The truth is, I love the film. I have seen it countless times but never tried to memorize the words or watch it three times in a row. While I studied in college, I used to have the film playing in the background. "The Day the Earth Stood Still" simply reminds me of my childhood and gives me the familiarity of growing up.

My father is a minister and all my life I heard about Jesus and how I should live by his example. As a teen, I began to recognized the similarities between Jesus and Klaatu.

1) They both came to earth on a mission of peace.
2) Both men wanted man to change his ways for a better tomorrow.
3) Both die, resurrect and depart from the earth (but only one left in a spaceship).

I found this fascinating and I still do. This film was released many years before "The Passion of the Christ" but ultimately has the same message; Love you neighbor as yourself and live in peace.

Everyone has a different opinion of this film. Personally, it means more to me than a game show or fun facts. "The Day the Earth Stood Still" reminds me of a time when I was trying to figure out who I was, who I wanted to be and mostly importantly, what I wanted to believe (not what was being forced upon me). It sounds basic and simple but now as an adult, I choose to believe in the same message as Klaatu, Jesus and many others who agree that a peaceful world leads to a better life. Sure, maybe I'm looking too deep into the film but there's no way around the message. All of us have the daily choice to practice peace but as Klaatu says "The decision rests with you."

Mistake in the Wonka DVD presentation

AMC mistakenly identified a newscaster playing in the film as Clete Roberts. The person who did the part was actually Jack Latham. Both he and Roberts were veteran Los Angeles newscasters who clould have credibly performed the newscaster part in Willy Wonka, but it was Latham who was on screen.

Roadhouse ROCKS!

I'm not a fan of Roadhouse just because I look like a bouncer. But, maybe I look like a bouncer because I am a huge fan of Roadhouse....definitely, something to think about. I'm a car guy through and through, so watching Swayze cruise around in his '65 Riviera is quite fine with me. I actually had an exact clone of that car a few years back...clam shell headlights and all. Ya, Roadhouse is one of those movies that is timeless. I wore out my VHS and bought the DVD a few years back...now that has quite a few scratches on it. Anyway, huge fan, great movie and what a classic- first time in a movie it was cool to be tough and smart!

-Haven Miller

godfather quiz

One of the question in The Godfather quiz was inaccurate about Vincent and Mary. Did anyone else catch that?

Greatest War Movie

Voting method wasn't very good. Should have listed 100 movies and had respondants rate them on scale 1 to 100.

Sly and I... and Fond Memories

Hey Guys I am the other contestant for Cinemania's "ROCKY IV". My most fond memory about Rocky IV is back in the Summer of 1990. My best friend and I watched the movie once a day for about 4 weeks, while trying to get rid of our babyfat with a murder workout following the movie. So nowadays I just stick to the Rocky IV Soundtrack and it'll do the trick to get me pumped up.

Well Lorenzo has already mentioned great reasons why Rocky IV or any Rocky Sequel is a classic!
So no need to repeat myself here. I actually want to talk about Sly and Sabrina's Similarities:

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How do you feel when you watch Rocky IV?

Life is very difficult and tough especially today and having movies like "ROCKY" is just what we need. We need movies that inspire us and give us a message that, "It can be done" and when you hear that music, you will indeed be inspired.

Rocky IV is so inspiring. You have Rocky vs Ivan and Ivan was bigger, stronger and better. But Rocky believed in himself so much, that no matter what he was fighting, he could not be defeated. Rocky kept getting knock down, time after time but still got up and that is such a good lesson for everyone. No matter what your up against, believe in yourself 100%, keep getting up and you'll come out the victor.

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Do we have to watch the Rocky series again?

Future of Classic Boredom.

John Wayne

John Wayne's best western is Chisim

Sleeping With The Enemy

This Movie Is My Favorite, Starring Julia Roberts. If You Are A Woman, I Feel That You Can Relate To What She Is Going Through. You Do Not Have To Be
A Battered Woman To Feel Her Pain And Anquish. I Really Think That She Should Have Won An Oscar For Her Portrayal Of A Woman, Who Feels Trapped In A Marriage, And Desperately Needs To Escape!

Clear and Present Danger

What's not to like about this movie? Anything Harrison Ford is in is an instant classic. Plus any Tom Clancy books always make for great screen plays. I love this movie because it is non-stop and action packed. Its filled with twists and turns and your always left wanting more. It has an all star cast with Willem Dafoe, James Earl Jones and Benjamin Bratt to name a few. This movie shows how corruption, money and power rule the government, but gives us hope that there are a few good men willing to do the right thing still out there. This is by far one of my favorite movies I could watch it again and again forever.

Watch me compete in Cinemania on Thursday at 8 ET!

Do you see Laura's Strength in you?

"That was the night that I died and someone else was saved. Someone who was afraid of water but learned to swim, someone who knew that there would be a moment he wasn't watching, someone who knew the broken lights would lead the way."

I love the movie Sleeping With The Enemy because it represents the struggle to overcome abuse. Julia Roberts takes us through the emotions of being abused and finding the strength within to change the situation. What better way to represent the change of picking a new life than dressing up and trying on different hats, so I guess I should have remembered how many...oops. It may have taken Laura 3 years 7 months and 6 days to find the courage but it is never to late to make a stand for you. I believe that many people can relate or wonder what they would do if put in those same shoes and that is why Sleeping With The Enemy is a Classic. We can all overcome whatever holds us back and find a new joy! Dress up and dance like Laura did...Believe!

I hope everyone enjoyed watching Cinemania as much as I enjoyed playing the game!

TNG Going out with a Bang!

So what's new about this movie? Picard embodies the perfect Starfleet officer. But take that uniform off and replace it with tattered clothes and remove that individual form his starship and place him in the deep recesses of a sunless world mined by slaves, tortured by Romulans and ...you get the picture.

What I think people missed in this movie was the big question: Are Picard and the clone so different? Shinzon even asks Picard that in the movie. Could Picard have changed or convinced the clone had he had more time? Could the original Picard in a similar situation become evil? Either way, it is the human element and conflict within each of the Picards and is what will intrigue an audience and is what I especially liked about this movie. It wasn't just some random bad guy.

What was also interesting, with all of the technology, sometimes you just have to solve things the good old-fashioned way: just ram your ship into them. I'm surprised that another captain never thought of that.

Great end to a great crew!

See me talk about Star Trek: Nemesis tonight on AMC's Cinemania at 8PM | 7C

Star Trek Nemesis - My favorite Movie

Yep, I am a Trekkie. Since I was a teen. This movie is my favorite because I have wondered if my DNA has been stolen and a nemesis of me is somewhere in the galaxy just waiting to surprise me. Captain Jean-Luc Picard was surprised by Praetor Shinzon as his nemesis. Picard is curious about where Shinzon came from and how much alike they really are, just as we as an audience are.

I think my favorite part in the movie is where B4's head is in the center console asking inappropriate questions, including the question about Picard's shinny head. The music and crew in this film continues the journey of Star Trek and they feel like my friends in space. This is a classic film that can be watched over and over and never tire of the conflict of good and evil. So enjoy the film with a cup of Earl Grey Tea, hot.

See me talk about Star Trek: Nemesis tonight on AMC's Cinemania at 8PM | 7C

Tomorrow Never Dies- A brick in 007 classic wall

Guns. Gadgets. Girls. Every Bond film has them. But that doesn't mean that we as an audience get tired of them. Tomorrow Never Dies not only lives up to the Bond expectations but also delivers a great villain that could easily be found in every day life. Elliot Carver, the media baron will not go down as the most vicious villains in the James Bond collection but e will go down as the one of the most realistic. In a world of corporate greed and globalized media ownership, Elliot Carver
is not to far of a leap. Every hear of a guy called Rupert Murdoch? But international business aside, Tomorrow Never Dies keeps the Bond series all well and will be enjoyed by fans for years to come.

Cinemania - Tomorrow Never Dies

Alright...exciting stuff, Tomorrow Never Dies, a good and very entertaining Bond classic, lots of gadgets, and lots of fun. I happen to be one of the fans on Cinemania this evening, I won't tell you the answers, but if you're true fans you'll know them already. I like this film a lot for Michelle Yeoh and her woman butt kicking, usually it's the bad girl who's got moves, not the good girl. I think her connection and playfulness with Bond is great in the film. Not enough usage of Teri Hatcher, but she looks pretty for 5 minutes. It's pretty amazing that for a 100 million dollar movie budget it was all made using product placement, nothing was spent... genius. When you watch it you'll see a lot that. The car is pretty great in this one too, I wish I had a remote that controlled my car, could we make this a reality? On second thoughts that's pretty scary. Being on the show was fun, and Regan Burns is a nice guy too, in fact everyone on set was great, that always helps. Enjoy the film, as I have many times, mostly for the handsome face and accent of Pierce, who made a fine Bond for those four films.

Con Heir

I'm a huge fan of con-artist/caper films, and simply put, "Matchstick Men" is one of the best of the genre. I'd put it up there along with such greats as "The Sting" and "The Grifters." Everything from the Frank Sinatra tunes to the San Fernando Valley inspired set design to the fashion/lifestyle choices (suits, cigarettes, etc) recall the early '60s, making the film a throwback to films from that age.

The performances are also top notch. Nicolas Cage makes for one of the most unlikely con-artists the screen has ever seen as Roy. He makes every moment feel alive and true, whether it's hysterics or hearbreak that he's experiencing. Sam Rockwell also proves he has star quality to burn as partner-in-crime, Frank - the Oscar Madison to Roy's Felix Ungar. But, the real standout here is the beautiful and talented Alison Lohman, who plays Roy's long lost daughter, Angela. It's amazing to think that Lohman was a 22 year-old woman playing a feisty 14 year-old protege-in-training. Together, all three of them, make for an odd, yet somewhat functional, make-shift family.

And thanks to Ridley Scott's direction, each second feels in the moment - whether it's the getting-to-know-you relationship of Roy and Angela to the excitement and danger of working a con. In fact, with so many twists and turns, you might feel as if you're one of their marks. Although, with this gang, you definitely won't feel ripped off.

The Dream of Apollo 13

Sitting in the theatre as a kid, I was nothing short of mesmerized after watching Apollo 13. I marched out with my parents and proudly announced, "I want to be an astronaut and to go the moon."

"They already went to the moon; pick something else." And so my mother dashed my hopes of repeating the journeys of Jim Lovell, Fred Haise, Jack Swaggart, Armstrong, Aldrin, and the like. Despite my mother's dream-crushing, I have held with me for a long time the wondrous experience of those hours with Apollo 13.

The story of Apollo 13, however dramatized, is engaging and inspiring on its own, but add in the brilliant acting, the directing, cinematography, and score, and the journey becomes extraordinary. For me, honestly, the music is what makes Apollo 13 as great as it is. The clips where the astronauts look out of the shuttle as they pass around the moon, as they look out at the venting oxygen, as they splash down in the ocean... I can hear the soundtrack in my head, even as I write, and I still manage to get a chill.

I'll share my favorite scenes as well - initially when Jim Lovell is outside and gazes up at the moon, blocking it from sight with his thumb, then uncovering it, followed much later with a repeated gesture from space to the earth; the arrival of Gene Krantz's vest from his wife; Jim's wife telling the reporters that they can take up the issue of putting cameras on her lawn when her husband returns; the scene when Gene Krantz draws in a solid line over the dotted line as they have saved the flight crew; even the supers at the end listing what became of all the involved players.

Apollo 13 kicks blast.

This movie kills. It takes a historic event, great acting, great directing, and a Clint Howard spotting and puts them in blender and what we get is pure gold.

Viva la Birdcage!

The Birdcage is by far a classic movie that will continue to stand the test of time. Why u ask? Because! Award winning acting, set and costume design, cinematography, music - shall I go on? Every single scene in this film has something to laugh at :D
I have easily watched this film more time than I can count and I still crack up at Agudor Sparticus, Albert and plenty others. Don't take my word for it - watch the movie! The fact that it has earned 13 nominations and 5 wins and is directed by Mike Nichols - the man who brought us amazing films like Regarding Henry, Working Girl, Catch-22, and The Graduate (just to name a few!) means this movie ranks right up there with others that stand alone in this crazy race! Bottom Line: Give me drag queens, music I can sing along with, and a film that can always make me laugh and I'm Super :)

Why Birdcage is the Best

Because it is.

My Cousin Vinny! "Mrs. Riley, and ONLY Mrs. Riley!!!"

My Cousin Vinny is a classic film, that gets better every time. Marisa Tomei , Joe Pesci, and the Karate Kid himsef Ralph Macchio join forces and deliver unforgetably performances. The on-screen chemistry and comedic timing is priceless. My Cuz Vinny is a movie i've been quoting since 92 and can see myself quoting till i'm 92. "Were those magic grits?, Did you buy them from the same guy who sold Jack his Beanstalk beans?!!! "Stan your in Ala Fu#&ing Bama, your from New York, you killed a good ole boy, there is no way this aint going to trial!" "Imagine your a deer, your prancing around and you spot a brook, you put your little lips down to the cool, clear water, BAM a Fu#&ing bullet rips off part of your head, and I ask ya, would you give a Fu#& what kind of pants the son-of-a-bitch that shot you was wearing!" and who could forget the 2 Yutes! This movie was and always will be a classic. Check me out this thursday on the AMC show Cinemania, where I will be tring to earn the title of My Cousin Vinny's Biggest Fan...... and this has nothing to do with my weight!!!! Ronnie

Get Rid Of Stooges

and get Abbott and Costello movies back on Sunday mornings. It's time for a change. Their comedy beats slapstick any day, hands down!!!!

Jaws! They don't make em' like they used to

An undeniable classic. Very rarely does a movie stand the test of time, let alone over 30 years. There's something special about the movies made in the 70's that you don't see too often today. Jaws is one of the biggest examples of that. With Steven Spielberg's flawless direction we are taken to another world with characters who remind us of the people in our lives (well, maybe not Quint). I guess I would label this as a horror movie, but it's a subtle one. Spielberg is reminiscent of Hitchcock in that he doesn't give too much away and the fear becomes a psychological one. I mean, so many people were afraid to go back in the water after seeing this film! Something about the summertime makes me want to watch this film over and over again lately. From the first time I saw it until the last time this is one film that will remain one of my favorites. If you haven't see it, see it now. Check it out on AMC tonight, and watch me on Cinemania!

Olympics

AMC should play a marathon of olympics related movies this summer.

Jaws Remake?

What about a modern day Jaws movie with more of the book contents in todays time frame? I think that could be awesome. What actors could play Brody, Quint and Hooper?

Columbo

I love the Columbo movie series and showed today just don't have the same flare. I am new to this website. How do I communicate my suggestions to have AMC schedule future Columbo shows on the air?

best westerns

How could "The Big Country" not be in the top 20 westerns ever. It's definetly in the top "5". And "Open Range" deserves to be up there too.
"Shane" is number one without question, the ones that all the others aspired to after that movie.
Pat

Terminator 2 - I'll be back... again and again

Hey guys -

This is Evan, the die-hard fan from the Terminator 2 "Cinemania" episode.

It seems like no matter the place or time, whenever T2 comes on, I always have to watch it through the end. This movie has it all: incredible action, huge starpower, broader themes and some of the most revolutionary special effects from way back in 1991.

My favorite scene was the galleria and first meeting between Arnold and the T-1000. Up to that point the film is a race to John Connor, then a race to Sarah Connor and then a chase with the T-1000 in pursuit.

The episode was a blast to film. Some of the things I found out about the effects blew my mind!! When T-1000 froze in liquid nitrogen and his leg broke... they used an amputee! There are a million stories like that.

Hope you enjoyed the trivia question. What you may not know is that the 3rd deciding question was actually the 9th because Sufe and I kept knowing and not knowing the same information. Who knew?

What about T2 sticks out to you?

-Evan

Best James Bond Movie

the best james bond movie is the first one dr.no, the second one is live and let die.

Scariest Stephen King Movie

the scariest stephen king movie is in my opinion was carrie, the stupidest one was it.

Jaws... My Favorite Movie

I am very pleased to say that AMC will be playing The entire Jaws series twice on Independence Day. The first one has for twenty years been on no.1 on my top 20 favorite movies list. It's a great film that I would highly recommend.

Why Patriot Games with Harrison Ford is a CLASSIC

I think Patriot Games with Harrison Ford is a classic because it deals with issues that will always be a part of our society. Whether it's the relationship between a dad and his family he is trying to protect, or that the United States and other countries will always have to encounter and deal with some form of terrorist groups. The enemies of our countries have changed through the years, but there will always be a terrorist faction in the world, sadly, that we as a people and a nation will have to work against

Who out there agrees with me that Harrison ("Harry") as I refer to him...:) is the ultimate Jack Ryan? I think the thing that makes Harrison's performances stand out is that we as the audience always believe what his character is going through. You know what I mean? Whenever Harrison acts out a role he doesn't do it in a sort of wink and smile look to the audience as he is embroiled in a gun shoot out or fight etc....it's like you really believe his character is in peril. Unlike other movie "action stars" whose characters go through fights and bullets without a scrape or any inner turmoil to their emotions....Harrison always accurately portrays the "everyman" in an extraordinary situation. You can really feel for what the character is going through. And Ford always makes it seem so effortless that many think he is not as deep an actor, when in fact he is. Hopefully, Harrison will win an Oscar someday, and be recognized for his superb acting, where he fools us all by making us think it was effortless, because he is so good at making us believe.

Watch for the key scenes that help Jack form his reasoning for returning to the CIA in order to protect his family. One such scene is after his little girl gets injured by the terrorists. Harrison's scene at the hospital is powerful as he looks at his daughter and then warns through a movement of his hand to the IRA spokesperson that he won't be dealing with their crap or propaganda. Another great scene is when one of the terrorists calls Jack Ryan at home to make light of the fact that the terrorists got to his daughter and injured her and that next the terrorists could kill them, the terrorist says. Watch as Anne Archer who plays Mrs. Ryan gives permission to her husband to go after them. She says "You get them Jack. I don't care what you have to do. Just get them". Great scene. Let me know what you think!

I'm on Cinemania tonight during the Harrison Ford thriller classic Patriot Games at 8 PM | 7C on AMC. Let me know what you think of the film and why it's a classic.

The Best Movie War Hero of All Time

When I first learned that AMC was Having a Poll to vote on the greatest war hero, The 1st thought in my Mind was Gary Cooper of Sgt. York. That is my all time greatest. I was disappointed that he was not even a choice in the poll. I guess a younger audience would not even be aware of that movie or that actor. Even so He should have won

Jurassic Park Tonight!!

Hey everyone! This is Maggie Lehman. You can catch me on 'Cinemania' tonight. Make sure you tune in tonight in order to catch one of Spielberg's many masterpieces 'Jurassic Park'. Dean Cundey and Shane Mahan are along for the ride as well.
I'm just going to dive right in...I love this movie simply because of Jeff Goldblum's one liner..."That is one big pile of _ _ _ _!" That aside, there are also many other reasons I enjoy this film. GREAT ACTORS!! Every actor in this movie is believable. Another great aspect the film has is subtle humor. For example:
"Dinosaurs eat man. Woman inherits the Earth." Woohoo Laura Dern - excellent delivery!! It also has to be said that little Joseph Mazzello is so adorable with his "Well...we're back in the car again" line.

'Jurassic Park' sends out a very powerful message. The world is constantly changing and advancing. We're getting more and more powerful with what we are capable of. Lets face it...anything is possible.
I'm currently reading Christopher Reeve's book called 'Still Me'. There is a passage taken out of his Speech he gave on August 26, 1996 at the Democratic National Convention. He states, "So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable. If we can conquer outer space, we should be able to conquer inner space, too..." (this is in regards to finding a cure for spinal cord injury, but I think it's all related) We've landed on the moon...who's to say that one day scientists won't be able to bring back dinosaurs? I'm no scientist...it's just a bit of rambling, and just something to think about.
When have we gone too far? Where should the line be drawn? When should we allow mother nature to do her part? When is the right moment to step aside, and let "Life find a way?"
Look for the scenes that go into this debate a bit in the movie. Jeff Goldblum's character: Dr. Ian Malcolm says it best when the scientists are watching the velociraptor being hatched, as well as the lunch scene in the Welcome Center.
Anyways...this is pretty much why the movie had such an impact on me, and why I think it's a great idea for people to watch 'Jurassic Park', and think of other issues it brings up. There are more than one if you watch closely. Or just watch it because you need an excuse to kick back on a Thursday night after a hard days work. Pop some popcorn, have some soda, and tune into 'Cinemania'!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I would like to take this opportunity to thank 'Cinemania' for allowing me to be on their show as well as Tim Sheridan who even though I lost the trivia game gave me the prize anyway out of the kindness in his heart. Thanks Tim!!!
If anyone has anything they want to add to my blog (aggreements, disaggreements, comments...please reply, I would love to hear other people's opinions out there!) BYE EVERYONE!!!!!!!!
Mags :)

JURASSIC'S MARK

Howdy! I'm Tim Sheridan - you can catch me tonight on 'Cinemania' discussing one of my favorite movies 'Jurassic Park' (along with legendary cinematographer DEAN CUNDEY and SFX guru SHANE MAHAN!!)
I'm so happy the good folks at AMC asked me if I would like to blog about the movie and what I think qualifies it as a classic because I think 'JP' is notoriously underrated in that department. I think there's a little prejudice out there against a 15-year-old film being considered a "classic." Bah! Bah, I say!
Here are some of the reasons, in no particular order, why I think this film fits the bill (note the new terms I'm attempting to coin):

SPECIAL-EFFECTSITY

No denying it. 'JP' raised the special effects bar - and not just with the new digital innovation. Even the practical special effects are of a caliber never before seen in cinema (just watch the T-Rex/SUV scene and I dare you to disagree.) But let's not be quick to dismiss the invention of the Photorealistic CGI Creature. Without the Velociraptor, Gallimimus, and Brachiosaurus of SO long ago, would we have ever met their descendants Gollum, Dobby, Davy Jones, Peter Jackson's King Kong or the new-and-improved lightsaber-wielding badass Yoda? Let alone the new fashion of total-CGI films like 'The Polar Express' and 'Beowulf' (incidentally - is it not poetry that the evolutionary ladder of photorealistic CGI began with the CGI dinosaurs and has progressed through all manner of CGI creatures toward, finally, CGI man?)

CASTINESS

Two things. First, this is a first-rate cast delivering first-rate performances. Great. Done. But what makes them special? In 1993, these actors, regardless of their past work, were to a great extent unknown to the general movie-going populace. Jeff Goldblum was arguably the most recognizable face in the pack, but with credits like 'The Fly' and 'The Tall Guy', he was still in the 'cult favorite' category. Dickie Attenborough, perhaps the most famous cast member, was known to American audiences as a director, if at all. My point is that a less-than-recognizable cast lent to the believability of this fantastical story. Imagine Harrison Ford as Dr. Grant or Robin Williams as Ian Malcolm and you'll be imagining Harrison Ford and Robin Williams, not Dr. Grant and Ian Malcolm. If the dinosaurs are the real stars of 'JP', then this cast is the real heart and soul.

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D-Day Anniversry

Do you think tAmc should do an all WWII movie marathon on June 6th for 68th D-Day celebration or just do everything on Memorial Day?

Quotable Lines in Die Hard

I find that I quote many lines from this movie because they fit sooooo well on many daily occasions. For example, when someone asks how I am doing (and it really isn't a great day), I tell them "all things being equal, I'd rather be in Philadelphia." Now, I am well aware that this is a line used by W.C. Fields; but, since I am a child of the 80's, I always give credit to John McClain.

Why Is Die Hard a Classic?

I was watching the Transformers movie from last summer the other night and it reminded me of what makes the original Die Hard so special. The modern day big budget action film has devolved into a CGI bender that emphasizes visual spectacle over all else. It's the cinematic equivalent of a fireworks display; pretty while you watch and it completely forgettable after it's over. Transformers is a great example of this: it's all special effects and no heart. What really set Die Hard apart was the care taken to develop its characters and their relationships. As played by Bruce Willis (I think we forget what a revelation he was in the role), John McClain is an action hero that shows fear and real vulnerability. He was a real contrast to the indestructible action stars of the 80s. You could relate to McClain. When he is about to jump off the top of the Nakatomi Building McClain says "Please, God, don't let me die" and we are right there with him, also wanting to see this man live and prevail. The films also creates great relationships with the other characters. McClain's relationship with Al Powell is the heart and soul of the movie. McClain's relationship with Holly drives the story. And McClain's cat and mouse game with Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman turns in what is surely one of the great screen bad guys of all time) gives the movie's central conflict greater depth. Amazingly, most of these relationships occur over walkie talkie, the actors are not even sharing the screen. Die Hard isn't a classic because it has impressive explosions. Yes the actions scenes are well executed, but if you don't care what happens to the people on screen the explosions are just noise. Die Hard is a classic because it has heart. A lot of heart.

Watch me discuss Die Hard on Cinemania tonight at 8 PM | 7 C on AMC

Planet of The Apes - The Original Inconvenient Truth

Hello Everyone,

David here from West Hollywood and I'm a huge fan of the Planet of The Apes movies, particularly the 1968 original. You can catch me tonight on Cinemania at 8pm / 7C on AMC in the ultimate POTA fan smack down.

In my opinion, Planet of The Apes has stood the test of time as a classic film because of all the elements of the film coming together without one overpowering the other. The keen direction of Franklin J. Schaffner, the thoughtful and often times humorous script by Michael Wilson and Rod Serling, the amazing make-up by John Chambers, the haunting musical score by Jerry Goldsmith, fantastic costume design by Morton Haack, and of course the superb cast all come together in a fantastic adventure of survival.

The film was so far ahead of its time in dealing with the harsh reality that man himself will one day be the cause of his own demise that one might argue that it is the original An Inconvenient Truth. I was also a huge fan of the "disaster" movie decade of the 1970's. In many ways, POTA is the ultimate disaster movie. Climbing to the top of an upside-down ocean liner is child's play compared to dealing with talking Apes that want to cut pieces out of your brain.

I also love the relationship between Zira and Cornelius. It took such fine actors as Kim Hunter and Roddy McDowall to convey the necessary range of emotions under all that latex and heavy costumes for audiences keep coming back year after year. I think my favorite shot in the movie is the close up on Kim Hunter's face when Taylor (Charlton Heston) barks out the famous line, "Take your stinkin' paws off me you damned dirty ape!". It's pure movie magic! Enjoy.

Enjoy the film!

Planet of the Apes's Subtle Warning

Hi, Jessica here. I am a huge fan of Planet of the Apes. You will get my drift when you watch me on Cinemania tonight at 8 | 7C on AMC!

John Chamber's make-up creations have influenced my interest in make-up but it is Roddy McDowall who influenced me as an actress! What people may not know about Roddy is that he had a long, long career before and after playing Cornelius and later Caesar in the Planet of the Apes series -- he has worked more than just about any actor out there...and yet few people recognize him without his make-up on.

He was a director and a photographer of great renown, not to mention one of the best friends anyone in Hollywood, and everyone is Hollywood, ever had. That said, there are many other things that keep Planet of the Apes close to my heart besides my lifelong crush (starting in teenhood) on Roddy.
The series conveys a message that we find becoming more and more important today. Everyone got the nuclear war references, but more subtle in the series is the notion that the more compliant and backwards and slow mankind gets, the more we open the door for a better species to take over. One day it will happen....will it be apes, or something else?

007 Marathon?

Non-Stop Bond marathon needs a home like AMC! For at least a week each year..... who's with me?

Recent Future Classics

Sometimes it's hard to tell what movies will endure to become classics. If you told me in 1985 that Real Genius would endure to make Val Kilmer a star, I would have laughed in your face. And yet, here we are. Then there are movies like Rain Man and Ferris Bueller's Day Off, which become legendary the moment they're released.

What movies have you seen recently that you think might stand the test of time?

I'll get the ball rolling and say that so far this year, Cloverfield might have what it takes,simply because it delivered in redefining the monster genre (Who would have thought you could make a successful movie focused on the people screaming "Aieeee!" at Godzilla?). Also, given the recent proliferation of the term "sweded," I think Michel Gondry's Be Kind Rewind will be remembered for decades to come.

The Best Depictions of Jesus

It's Easter time, and while that may mean egg hunts and chocolate for some, for others it's a time to reflect on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It's a topic filmmakers have been tackling for years with varying degrees of success -- I'm not sure anyone was prepared for how well The Passion of the Christ did, both critically and at the box office.

But Mel Gibson's Passion follows in a long line of stories from some of the industry's top filmmakers: Martin Scorsese crowned Willem Defoe in The Last Temptation of Christ; Franco Zeffirelli's Jesus of Nazareth is considered by many to be the best there ever has been and ever will be; then of course there's Godspell, a trippy '70s musical more concerned with Jesus' parables than his tale.

Each film, and each portrayal of Jesus, speaks to different people in different ways. As an agnostic, I appreciate Zeffirelli's version for its appreciation of the minutiae of each of the Biblical stories. But I have to say that Mel Gibson's attention to historical accuracy is commendable. So I guess if I had to pick a Jesus, it would be James Caviezel's for me.

What do you think? What actor portrayed Jesus the best? Which Jesus movie is your favorite?

The Best War Movie?

War movies are one of the best tools of historical reflection we have. They give us perspective on periods of history steeped in emotion and oftentimes controversy, they entertain us, and they usually reflect the climate of the period in which they were made.

Is there any form of entertainment that so closely defines for us the meaning of heroism, leadership, and teamwork; is there any form that so readily reminds us of where we've been, and where we're headed?

For my money, the title of "Best War Movie" is between Glory, Schindler's List, and Apocalypse Now. Out of those three, I think Glory embodies the most classic sense of the war movie, illustrating perfectly all the values I listed above. Schindler's List I think is one of the most well-made movies of the century. And Apocalypse Now perfectly illustrates the ability to take a classic tale, Conrad's Heart of Darkness, and use the metaphor of a "modern" war to make it relevant.

What do you think? What is your favorite war movie?

The Late Fourties and Fifties Classic Movies

They were before my time but I sure miss AMC showing them. I wonder if they (AMC) will bring them back ? I love Ray Milland, Lorretta Young, and so many others.

Saturday Morning Cowboys

I hope that AMC NEVER stops the great old westerns that they show on Saturday mornings....Everyone I know just loves them!

The Monitors

Time Travel IS Possible - - - do you want to explore the mind set of the end of the turbulant decade of the 1960s then watch this admittedly quirky, admittedly flawed, yet fantastic Sci-Fi Comedy. AMC Please show this wonderful film - - - it captures completely the madness and the mayhem of the 1960's and features several actors who ought to have had more films to their credit among them Guy Stockwell, Susan Oliver, Larry Storch, Avery Schrieber, the always wonderful Keenan Wynn. It also features what is perhaps the greatest portrayal of a (fictional) American President, Ed Begley as a forlorn forgotten man grimly 'holding down the fort.' The Monitors has droll black humor, terrific music and many manic moments. It is a sadly underrated film and deserves several showings on AMC (with limited commcercials -- the commercials within The Monitors are a hoot)....

The Best Romance Movies

We're at T-Minus One Week until Valentine's Day. Even though I'm not one of the people who into this particular holiday, it's also so big I can't ignore it. I'm therefore always at a loss as to what to do. Fortunately, there are plenty of films out there to help me get closer to understanding.

I always start with a page out of Sleepless in Seattle. Yes, it's a bit cheesy, but it's in my age range and you can't deny the film's charm. I think the take-home message is that the days of flowers and chocolates are over: If you want to do Valentine's Day right, it's either gotta be extreme, (a la the Empire State Building) or at least unique (thankfully, I haven't yet reached the level of desperation where I've considered getting a star named after someone).

What are some of your favorite can't-miss romance films, and what Valentine's Day lessons have they taught you?

My Favorite Musical

I don't know why Hollywood doesn't make more musicals nowadays. Sweeney Todd was good, but the only other one that I know of that came out last year was Across the Universe, which a friend of mine saw and said wasn't very good. My personal favorite is actually the Steve Martin vehicle Pennies From Heaven. I know it's all lip-synching but the songs are great and the dance routines are super.

Your Favorite Sports Movie

Super Bowl XLII is just around the corner, and what a season it's been in the NFL. Fans will soon have the opportunity to witness one of two outcomes: Either the New England Patriots will become the first professional football team since the 1972 Miami Dolphins to play a perfect 19-0 season, or the New York Giants, who began their season as one of the league's most unlikely prospects, will prove everyone wrong and take home the big trophy. Ladies and gentlemen, it's time to believe in miracles.

You've had plenty of practice. For decades sports movies have been regaling us with tales of underdogs triumphing in the face of certain defeat. From Hoosiers to He Got Game, from Remember the Titans to Rudy, from The Mighty Ducks to, well, Miracle.

Continue »

Is The Matrix One of the Greatest?

This week we talked to three professional fighters and asked them to list their three favorite combat films. There were some obvious choices like Rocky, and some less obvious ones like Five Deadly Venoms. None of them, however, mentioned The Matrix. Honestly, I was a little surprised.

Think about it: In any given combat movie, there is typically a particular style of fighting that's depicted: Kung-Fu, kickboxing, regular boxing, whatever. In this movie the Wachowski Brothers made a conscious effort to run the gamut. Neo's training scene alone ought to qualify The Matrix as one of the great fight flicks.

What do you think? Did the three pro fighters simply snub scifi? Why no Jackie Chan? What's your favorite fight movie ever?

Win a John Wayne DVD Set

We all know that John Wayne is the greatest cowboy that ever graced the silver screen. But which flick is his best? Well Pilgrim, now's your chance to let us know. If you do, we'll enter you in a drawing to win the John Wayne, Legendary Heroes five-pack DVD set.

UPDATE: cmaxwell, who nominated Rooster Cogburn as John Wayne's best film, has been randomly selected to win the DVD set. But keep posting comments on your favorite cowboy, his legend, and his posterity here on AMC's Talk forum. Or start a whole new John Wayne topic of your own!