2014 Oscar Predictions

Here it is, the moment we have all been waiting for…The Oscars! I love The Academy Awards more than any other special event. For one thing, I always have a fun party planned, but I mostly love doing research for The Oscars. I love catching up on any and all films I may have missed the previous year. I also love predicting who will win the coveted statue. So here goes:

BEST PICTURE: 12 YEARS A SLAVE
This film chilled me to the bone. As I posted in my film review, I think it is the most important films of the year if not the past decade. Director, Steve McQueen has a way of grabbing the audience by the balls and this film is no exception. Nearly all of his films have a frightening darkness to them, but there’s beauty in that. Don’t get me wrong, I loved most of the other films nominated (except the pirate movie), but I think 12 YEARS A SLAVE is a cut above the rest.



BEST DIRECTOR: ALFONSO CUARON
Cuaron has well established himself in his native Mexico, but GRAVITY put him on the map here in the US. He’s made a slew of critically acclaimed films that have mostly flown under the radar. I think the Academy will finally recognize this. I would love to see Steve McQueen win this award, but I know 12 YEARS is not the last we have heard of him. He has the potential to be the next Kubrick or PTA. McQueen only gets better and better.



BEST ACTOR: TEXAS T-REX
It’s Leo’s time to get an Oscar and he most assuredly deserves one especially after his WOLF OF WALL ST performance, but this year belongs to Matthew McConaughey. TX T-REX blew everyone away with his role in DALLAS BUYERS CLUB including myself. He is on such an amazing streak of great films I can’t wait to see what he does next. His small cameo in WOLF was perfect. It’s so hard for me to pick one of these two, but I suspect McConaughey will take the statue. I only pray that his acceptance speech is as good as the one he gave at the Globes where he quoted David Wooderson. L-I-V-I-N!



BEST ACTRESS: CATE BLANCHETT
Every lady nominated for Best Actress already has an Oscar so this is some stiff competition. Blanchett’s performance in BLUE JASMINE was incredibly bittersweet. The film itself received mixed reviews, but there was no doubt about Blanchett’s stellar performance. I really enjoyed this film despite the criticism. I liked the portrayal of the other side of money and the resulting effects on one’s life. I don’t think many films address that scenario and I think Allen did a great job of making the characters relatable, but kept it in perspective of their roles. And just when you feel a happy ending coming on, NOPE we are reminded that this is still a Woody Allen film and there are no happy endings.



BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: JARED LETO
My near 20 year crush on Jordan Catalano has profoundly affected my judgment this Oscar season. Before I suspected Leto was even a nominee, I would have given this award to my other love, Michael Fassbender. His haunting portrayal as a sadistic slave owner in 12 YEARS was disturbing and compelling. Fassy is not only unbelievably attractive, but he’s exceptionally talented. He too has a great career ahead of him. As far as Leto goes, acting has not always been his main priority. I feel like music takes precedent in his life so this may be his one big chance at an Oscar. His portrayal as an AIDS stricken transvestite was heartbreaking. Both McConaughey and Leto underwent drastic physical changes for their respective roles. That is something the Academy always considers and rewards.



BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: LUPITA NYONG’O
Before the film was even over, I was sold on Nyong’o. She has a beautiful presence that is unmatched. The other performances in this category pale in comparison to this emotionally and physically demanding role that was portrayed flawlessly. Nyong’o is poised to become Hollywood’s it girl as she should be.



BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY: HER
I did not enjoy HER one bit, but I will admit that the script was unique and original. Is it enough to merit and Oscar? Not in my book, but I am not a member of the Academy. I generally enjoy the films of Spike Jonz, but this just fell flat for me. I didn’t even realize it was supposed to take place in the future! I was also praying that Joaquin would kill himself at the end of the film to at least offer some kind of impact in a lukewarm story that felt way too long. I could see AMERICAN HUSTLE taking this award and I would say that film is more worthy, but for some reason I feel like HER will be the curveball the Academy throws us this year.



BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY: 12 YEARS A SLAVE
I really think 12 YEARS is the front runner here. Solomon Nortup’s book is such a harrowing tale of unfortunate circumstance and civil injustice. I can’t imagine any other screenplay in this category having as much of an impression on an audience as 12 YEARS.



BEST DOCUMENTARY: THE ACT OF KILLING/ THE SQUARE
I still cannot decide which film should win this category. Initially, I felt like ACT OF KILLING would be the lead, but now I’m not so sure. ACT OF KILLING was one of the most horrifying pieces I’ve seen in years, not necessarily because of the content or subject, but because of the lack of empathy and remorse from the film’s main stars. The relevancy of THE SQUARE and how it relates to current events in Egypt leads me to believe that it could take the honor. Honestly, I would have loved to see BLACKFISH in this category, and win the Oscar. I certainly think that documentary had one of the most insightful social commentaries on something that has not often been discussed. It was definitely the most eye opening documentary of the year.





BEST FOREIGN FILM: THE GREAT BEAUTY
I loved this film so much. It has drawn many comparisons to LA DOLCE VITA which I can understand. However, the occasional, raw, sardonic themes in this film remind me of early Woody Allen. This epic tale of Jep Gambardella’s life and love is parallel to the protagonist in THE TREE OF LIFE. I really can’t see any other film in this category topping THE GREAT BEAUTY.



BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM: FROZEN
I rarely watch any of the animated features; it’s one of my least favorite categories. Actually, animated films in general are low on the list of film genres for me. I usually bet on Disney because let’s face it; they’ve cornered the market in this category. However, I do enjoy the films of Hayao Miyazaki. I recently got to see an advanced screening of THE WIND RISES and without any knowledge of the other films in this category, I think it should win. THE WIND RISES is much different from the other well known Miyazaki films, but his same style of epic tales is still very prevalent. This was such a great and endearing story! I especially love animated JGL and the super cute Werner Herzog sing along. It’s unfortunate if this really his last film.



EVERYTHING ELSE: GRAVITY
I have GRAVITY taking pretty much all of the technical awards and rightfully so.



I also really hope that there is a respectable tribute to Philip Seymour Hoffman. I'm still pretty torn up about it and struck with disbelief. When someone in the public eye dies suddenly, it's a cliche to rave about how talented that person was (even if they weren't). Hoffman was the epitome of true artistry and definitely contributed an unbelievable amount of talent to the film industry. He was in his prime and would have continued to grow with so many upcoming roles. It truly is a shame and a huge loss for any film fan.



There you have it; my picks for this year’s Academy Awards. Who do you think will win? See you all on March 2nd!

2012 Highlights

While I am in the reflective mood, I figured I would talk about some of the highlights of last year. It was a huge year for everyone because it was our final guffaw for “end of the world” jokes. The year brought us many ups and downs, but overall I would say 2012 was a great year. I know personally I experienced some serious life/career changes that were met with great trepidation, but I have since whole-heartedly embraced. Change is fucking scary guys! Ten years ago, I definitely would have never thought I’d be where I am today but I am pretty happy with what I’ve done. Sometimes I think I’m such an adult and I really have it all together, then I find myself at Toys R Us debating over which Hulk Hands I need to buy. I think it’s important not to take ourselves so seriously all the time.



As I get older (I really hate that phrase), it’s harder to get excited about things especially music. I’ve been to enough concerts to last a lifetime, but this year I saw some really special shows. I had some really great opportunities that I am so thankful for. So without further adieu, here are my favorite moments of 2012:



I hate to be the jaded, old asshole who complains about music these days, but it is inevitable. For the most part, current music is bullshit. It lacks honesty, heart, and most of all creativity. If you disagree, by all means show me a band that will blow my mind away. Show me a band that will have me sobbing in my Lone Star tall boy the way Paul Westerberg and company can. Play me a song that will break my fucking heart to pieces the way Jawbreaker does. I dare you!



Blondie/Devo
This last year I got to see some truly amazing bands live. I got to see Devo and Blondie on the same bill in my hometown no less! That show had maybe the best crowd I have ever seem. It was nothing but exuberant 40 somethings in their casual Friday attire just having a good ol’ time listening to awesome music. There were no attitudes, no pre-judgments, no shade, and no hipsters. Both bands sounded great. It was really pleasing to see Devo at a big venue like Stubbs and not some cramped music hall like I had before during SXSW. Blondie was amazing. Debbie Harry is old enough to be my mom, but she can still command a stage better than Taylor Swift or X-Tina any day. Debbie Harry has always been an icon for me and I am so glad she did not disappoint. I can’t tell you how much fun I had.




JAMC
Getting to see JAMC at House of Blues in Houston was a wonderful experience I will never forget. They have been a long time favorite of mine and it was such a fun and LOUD show. They played all the hits. And we got to see a full set with encore, not some shitty “industry only,” 30 minute set at SXSW. Equally amazing was the dinner Chris P and I indulged in at House of Pies beforehand. I’m kinda glad we don’t have one in Austin; otherwise I’d be in big trouble.



Forgetters
2003 was the last time Blake Schwarzenbach (with JTB) officially recorded a full length album. In 2012, he finally released a long overdue album with his latest project, forgetters. To be perfectly honest, I’d listen to anything Blake put out. He is by far my favorite songwriter of all time. When you’re a teenager, new and exciting music is so accessible. It’s when you get older that you become less enchanted and sometimes I really miss that feeling of being memorized by a new song. I read this really whimsical article about growing up with a band, specifically Jawbreaker. It really hit home. For me, listening to Jawbreaker or even JTB is like looking through old photo albums. I can see myself stumbling around the streets of San Francisco in the middle of the night, late night sing-alongs, gazing out the window of a tour bus watching the stars on a long drive, or throwing on “Jet Black” on the jukebox at Emos. To see one of my old standbys create something new and invigorating is incredibly breathtaking. This album is great and it reminds me why I fell in love with Schwarzenbach’s words all those years ago.



FRANKENWEENIE
My dog (Spike) and I got to attend our first red carpet movie premiere. We were fortunate enough to win tickets to the world premiere of Tim Burton’s delightful film about a boy and his best friend, Sparky. I know I have talked endlessly about this special event, but I can’t tell you how exciting it was for us. My little gentleman was on his best behavior too. It must have been the bow tie. The whole experience was a dream come true for this little Goth girl.

Fassy
One of my favorite current actors is Michael Fassbender. I thought he was just brilliant in INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS and I was blown away by his performance (among other things) in SHAME. He was the only saving grace of PROMETHEUS. I cannot wait for the new Terrence Malick film he was shooting here in Austin. I really think Fassy has a long successful career ahead of him. Not to mention that he’s absolutely gorgeous. Kenny and I often frenquent Big Top Candy Store on South Congress following our usual Sunday Brunch. So there we were, sitting by the window at Big Top when you know who walks by. Kenny said, “Isn’t that…” As I turned to look, I nearly choked on the Jelly Bellies I was in the middle of eating when I realized he was standing right in front of me! We immediately got up and ran out to see where Fassy was headed. He looked so effortlessly casual sipping on a Topo Chico while strolling down the street. I was completely start struck!

San Antonio Spurs v. Boston Celtics
Last year I was able to attend my first NBA game and more importantly, I was able to take my mother to her first game. My mother is a die hard basketball fan and lifelong Spurs fan. I could care less about the Spurs, but I do love Boston. As a surprise early Christmas present, I got her a ticket and did not tell her until game day. She was so excited and we really had a great time. It's a good thing I got to see Rondo play right before his season was done due to an injury. I look forward to more games and maybe next time Boston can win.



THE DARK KNIGHT RISES
This summer marked another first for me, the first time watching a film in IMAX. Despite your opinion on TDKR, it was truly exhilarating watching a film on a screen that spans six stories. A huge portion of the film was shot in IMAX which made it look all the more tremendous. Also, getting to see this film a few days before the actual release was really exciting. For a brief moment, we could enjoy something special without it being marred by some psycho with a gun.



Steve Niles & Bernie Wrightson
In December my favorite comic book writer came to our local comic book shop to do a signing with a legend in his own right, Bernie Wrightson. Steve Niles has virtually changed the face of horror in comic books; he’s made it refreshing & fun. I saw Wrightson at Comic Con this year which was a blast. If you haven’t checked out his amazing artwork, you are missing out. I highly suggest his current book, Frankenstein Alive Alive which is also written by Niles. It’s funny, when you follow people on various social networking sites; you become very familiar with their personal lives. I know all about Niles’ tortoise Gil, his sick cat he recently had to euthanize, and his lovely partner Monica. However, I still felt a bit nervous meeting him. I spoke briefly with Mr. Niles who was genuinely nice and hospitable. It was a lot of fun!



2012 Presidential Election
How can we talk about 2012 and not mention the presidential race? I often forget that The Peoples Republic of Austin is very different from the rest of the conservative state of Texas. My first time voting was during the 2000 election. I voted (more than once) for a man I whole-heartedly believed in and trust, Ralph Nadar. I still stand by my decision. It was an exciting and eye-opening time for m then. It sounds really clichéd, but I think we really owe a civic duty to vote. I hear so many people complain about the state of the county and do nothing to change it. I have been that same person and I have also been the person in the streets rallying together with other like minds. I know people who can quote bullshit football statistics, but have no clue what our foreign policy is. I’m not saying I’m an expert on politics, but I know enough to choose a side. No matter who you support, you should always vote! And don’t be afraid to discuss your opinions with others in a mature respectful manner. You do a bigger disservice to yourself by being ambivalent.



New Order
Probably the highlight of my year was getting to see one of my Top 5 favorite bands of all time live in person! Finally getting to see New Order play was completely mind blowing. Getting to see them with my dear friend Ruth made it even more special. It meant just as much to her as it did to me. This was truly a good year for me and music. I consider myself a diehard cinephile first and foremost, but this last year really reminded me of how important music is.



The year is yours for the taking and it is truly what you make of it. I hope you all have a great 2013!

Most Anticipated Films of 2013

Wow, it really seems like this year is poised for big things. The film industry is abuzz with the usual blockbusters, sequels, and remakes. I could care less about MAN OF STEEL, G.I. JOE, or THE HANGOVER III. I am more concerned with several releases scheduled for SXSW, Sundance, and Cannes. Don't get me wrong, I am still looking forward to PACIFIC RIM, THE ICEMAN, and THE WOLF OF WALL STREET. I am also awaiting some interesting documentaries such as THE CENTRAL PARK FIVE, AFTER TILLER, and WHICH WAY IS THE FRONT LINE FROM HERE. It has been so hard narrowing down the films I am anticipating the most. Here is a list of films I cannot wait to see. Synopsis courtesy of imdb.com.

10. BLACKFISH

Notorious killer whale Tilikum is responsible for the deaths of three individuals, including a top killer whale trainer. Blackfish shows the sometimes devastating consequences of keeping such intelligent and sentient creatures in captivity.

Apparently, it isn't PC to call them "killer whales" anymore. Let's face it people, they are wild "killer" animals meant to live in oceans not as circus performers living in a kiddie pool. Nature is not meant to be tamed by man which is why these whales go ape shit and kill people. With the recent success of RUST AND BONE, this doc should continue to peak people's interest in Shamu & friends.

9. AFTERNOON DELIGHT

Afternoon Delight centers around a young couple (played by Josh Radnor and Kathryn Hahn) who have a young child together. The couple are beginning to become a little disillusioned by life as parents and decide to hire a nanny to help with their child. However, in a bid to spice up their life a little, they decide not to hire any ordinary nanny but instead opt to hire a stripper (Juno Temple).

Everyone is talking about Jennifer Lawrence, Bland Hathaway, and Elizabeth Olsen as actresses to watch. Juno Temple is the girl to look out for! She had fantastic roles in KABOOM and my favorite film of 2012, KILLER JOE. I know she is poised to break out any minute now. Or dare I say she could become the new indie darling a la Parker Posey?

8. ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE

A story centered on two vampires who have been in love for centuries. Adam (Tom Hiddleston), an underground musician reunites with his lover for centuries (Tilda Swinton) after he becomes depressed and tired with the direction human society has taken. Their love is interrupted and tested by her wild and uncontrollable little sister (Mia Wasikowska).

The latest film from the King of Cool, Jim Jarmusch. Jarmusch's films have this fluidity that I have never seem in any other filmmaking. Throw in Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton into the mix and it's a recipe for greatness. Could this be TWILIGHT for the astute?

7. MACHETE KILLS/ SIN CITY: A DAME TO KILL FOR

The U.S. government recruits Machete to battle his way through Mexico in order to take down an arms dealer who looks to launch a weapon into space.

The town's most hard boiled citizens cross paths with some of its more reviled inhabitants.

I actually got to visit Austin Studios last summer when they did the casting for MACHETE KILLS and come to find out for SIN CITY as well. Rodriguez was planning to shoot these two films back to back. I'm really looking forward to both of these sequels. It's hard to believe it's been seven years since the last SIN CITY and two cast members have died since then. Even though I hate Frank Miller as a person, I still love his writing in Sin City. I've heard so many different casting rumors from Johnny Depp to Angelina Jolie. Looks like JGL will be taking over the Depp role due to scheduling conflicts. I thought it was a joke that Charlie Sheen AND Mel Gibson were also staring in MACHETE. Isn't that too much crazy for one film? MACHETE also stars my girl crush, Amber Heard. Neither of these film will make a huge splash with the mainstream world, but I guarantee you they will be cult classics in years to come. Rodriguez is a legend in his own right and a hometown hero here in Austin.

6. UNTITLED TERENCE MALICK PROJECT/ KNIGHT OF CUPS/ VOYAGE OF TIME

Two intersecting love triangles. Obsession and betrayal set against the music scene in Austin, Texas.

A man, temptations, celebrity, and excess.

An examination of the birth and death of the universe.

Terence Malick used to make one film every decade, now he's pumping them out faster than Uwe Boll. Granted the shit Malick took this morning was probably better than anything Uwe Boll has ever done. Malick is another local legend who continues to cast our beautiful city in his lovely films. VOYAGE was not filmed in town, but it reunites Malick and Brad Pitt in another existential film about life and death. The untitled project created quit the stir in town! There were more Hey Girl (Ryan Gosling)sightings than the ever elusive white squirrel at UT campus. And since it was filmed in various local bars and music festivals, I know about half a dozen people who are extras in this film. People who have probably never even heard of Terrence Malick...but noooo I'm not jealous at all! I did happen to have my own heart stopping celebrity sighting. Kenny and I happen to run into one of my favorite actors, Michael Fassbender just walking down South Congress drinking a Topo Chico! Let me tell you friends, he's much better looking in person. Anyhow, I am really glad to see Malick has become so active these days.

5. THE GOLDEN SUICIDES

A chronicle of the double suicide of artists Theresa Duncan and Jeremy Blake.

I first read the story about Duncan and Blake in Vanity Fair and I was completely fascinated. How could two young, beautiful, and talented people just off themselves with no explanation? Throw in some Scientology in the mix and the story gets even more interesting. Originally, Bret Easton Ellis expressed interest in writing the script, but I think he got distracted with the upcoming bomb, THE CANYONS. So far, I've heard Ellis may still be writing the script along with Gus Van Sant with a rumor of Hey Girl starring. What really perked my ears was when I heard Gaspar Noe would be directing. The very same man who brought us IRREVERSIBLE and ENTER THE VOID! Well, we have see if this film will actually see the light of day in 2013. Either way, I am anxiously waiting.

4. MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

A modern retelling of Shakespeare's classic comedy about two pairs of lovers with different takes on romance and a way with words.

Shakespeare has been done to death and I could really give a shit about MUCH ADO if Whedon's name were not attached. Whedon shot this film under the radar while working on THE AVENGERS. He said it was sort of like a distraction to take his mind off the rigors of doing such a hugely monumental film. The cast consists of the usual Whedonverse suspects including several Buffy alumni. Most importantly, it stars the ever dreamy Nathan Fillion. To be honest, I would watch anything Joss Whedon created.

3. STOKER

After India's father dies, her Uncle Charlie, who she never knew existed, comes to live with her and her unstable mother. She comes to suspect this mysterious, charming man has ulterior motives and becomes increasingly infatuated with him.

This marks Chan-Wook Park's first English film. The man who gave us the holy trinity of vengeance films. I really hope that Park's style and precision translate well to English. My concern for this stems from last year's THE TALL MAN, a film by Pascal Laugier. Laugier directed the much talked about MARTYRS, a French film that has been regarded as one of the most disturbing films ever made. There is no doubt Laugier is of great talent, but his first crossover English film (THE TALL MAN) was a poor example of his magnitude. I hope this curse escapes Park. With the upcoming remake of Park's own OLDBOY, I really hope STOKER blows Spike Lee out of the water.

2. NYMPHOMANIAC

A self-diagnosed nymphomaniac recounts her erotic experiences to the man who saved her after a beating.

This film caused a huge stir when it was announced. The rumor was that unsimulated sex would actually be shot. Would you expect anything less from the disturbed mind of Lars Von Trier? Where else was he gonna go after those Nazi comments at Cannes? Anyhow, despite Von Trier's excentricities, I still love his films. The one thing about this film that leaves a bad taste in my mouth is Shia LaBeouf. If there ever was a sole embodyment of the word "douchebag", LeBeouf would be it. Not very long ago, he renounced mainstream cinema and decided he would only make independent films from now one. No one forced LeBeouf to make all those shitty Transformers movies! Try as you may Shia, you cannot escape your long resume of atrocious films. Even his name alone annoys me. Anyway, this film brings back Charlotte Gainsbourg who previously worked with Von Trier in MELANCHOLIA and ANTICHRIST. Her continued interest in working with Von Trier makes me think she's just as crazy as he is. Either way, I'm coming along for the ride!

1. HORNS

In the aftermath of his girlfriend's mysterious death, a young man awakens to strange horns sprouting from his temples.

The film adaptation of the much revered book by horror novelist, Joe Hill. I loved this book when it came out along with everything else Hill writes. I have watched this production very closely in hopes that they do this book justice and I feel really optimistic about it. The lead role was originally cast with Shia LeBeouf and of course I was livid. He dropped out and Daniel Radcliffe took over. The only thing I have ever seen Radcliffe in was THE WOMAN IN BLACK. The film itself was pretty mediocre, but Radcliffe was surprisingly good. The poor guy will forever live in the shadow of Harry Potter which is unfortunate because he could be the next Leo. I hope this film at least helps in his turn as a serious dramatic actor. I think he will make a great Ig Parrish and I am just ecstatic that my girl, Juno Temple will be playing his girlfriend Merrin. Originally, I was picturing someone like Bryce Dallas Howard in the role, but I think Temple will do a fantastic job. Alexandre Aja, the genius behind HIGH TENSION and PIRANHA 3D, will be directing. Let's hope this all works out, at least for my sake!

What are you guys looking forward to?