An The Oscar Goes To... A Body Double

Apparently The Academy is going to need a new category come 2012, "Best supporting role of a body double who wants to hog media attention." Sarah Lane, who was Natalie Portman's dance double in Black Swan is claiming that Portman is a farce. Lane told Entertainment Weekly,  "They wanted to create this idea in people's minds that Natalie was some kind of prodigy or so gifted in dance and really worked so hard to make herself a ballerina in a year and a half for the movie, basically because of the Oscar. It is demeaning to the profession and not just to me. I've been doing this for 22 years.... Can you become a concert pianist in a year and a half, even if you're a movie star?"
The problem with Lane's statements is that no actor or actress claims that they are a "professional" anything after training for roles. Mark Whalberg trained super hard for his role in The Fighter. Sure, he left the boxing ring in his mansion, but if you trained for the role of a lifetime, wouldn't you want to remember it? Whalberg never claimed to be "Rocky." 
Natalie never claimed to be a ballerina, but I believe that a lot can be accomplished in 18 months. Actors have an incredible ability to "just do it," that's why they make the big bucks. Listen to any interview for any film as actors describe their preparations for roles, and its not an easy process. Not many people would want to eat 1200 calories a day when they didn't have to and dance until they bled. That's where the "profession" part of acting comes in. I believe Portman's performance was so convincing because she actually lived out a part of Nina. Film lives on because what a team of people put together can do to create something amazing continues to leave audiences in awe. Check out: 
The sacrifice for art 
While credit should go where credit is due, it also shouldn't be taken away in the process. Benjamin Millepied talks to the LA Times.
Somewhere, Sarah Lane is waiting to star in the "Green Swan" and Natalie Portman is chilling on a couch eating mac and cheese with her Oscar sitting on her baby bump. All is right with the world.     

Experience The Mind Of A "Black Swan"

The masterpiece that is Black Swan will be coming to DVD and Blu Ray Tuesday March 29th. A fun website has been launched for the release: http://www.blackswanexperience.com/ Features clips and music from the film, as well as a "quiz" that reveals if you have a possible "dark side" like Nina. You match your emotion to the clips shown. It's a truly unique experience that enhances how awesome this film truly is on many levels. Check it out, and pick up Black Swan on March 29th, you won't regret it!

International Trailer 

Image: Fox Searchlight

The Academy Is Already Crying

No James Franco isn't hosting the Oscars again. 2011 is a year in movies where we will look back and think, "Damn, Hollywood blew a lot of stuff up." A good portion of the films being released this year are action packed, super hero films. So far, Winnie The Pooh is looking pretty epic compared to the rest. Then again, AMPAS always has Citizen Jane to fall back on. Let's not forget about Scream 4. 
 Despite the resurgence of the nineties, there are some Academy friendly films coming out. In A better World, which was nominated for an Academy Award this year in the Foreign Film category, will be released in the US April 1st.
The Sundance Film Fest award winner Hesher, starring Natalie Portman and Joseph Gordon-Levitt will be released April 15th and it looks like it could be another indie turned blockbuster.
The Tree Of Life, starring Brad Pitt, Sean Penn, and Jessica Chastain looks to be a powerful film, but may just miss the mark.    
2010 was an amazing year in film, and it will be hard tom compete with. The industry is evolving, but this is why we call it art, it's forever changing. One must appreciate the art that is created through the tedious film making process, for better or worse. Critics are always looking for that poignant film that will blow everyone away, and in AMPA's case, lull everyone to sleep. It's far too early to know for sure, but 2011 may be the year The Academy has to stray away from its usual voting patterns and look at films in a whole new light.  

A Comedic High With Your Highness

Bringing sexy back to medieval times, Natalie Portman, James Franco, Zooey Deschanel, and Danny McBride look hilarious in this raunchy comedy. If you thought Natalie Portman was a little crazy in Black Swan, you'll think she's bad ass with a British accent where she shoots arrows, and even gets nude in this Universal Pictures film. In case you were wondering how these Oscar worthy cast this film began production in the summer of 2009 in Ireland.     
The storyline: "Throughout history, tales of chivalry have burnished the legends of brave, handsome knights who rescue fair damsels, slay dragons and conquer evil. But behind many a hero is a good-for-nothing younger brother trying just to stay out of the way of those dragons, evil and trouble in general..."
This film is the conventional comedy in the unconventional setting.
Your Highness opens in theaters April 8th.  
Restricted Trailer: Your Highness

Even The Academy Was Yawning... Oscars 2011

When the first winner announced at the 83rd annual Academy Awards was Alice In Wonderland for Art Direction, I'm not sure anyone knew what to expect. While 2010 was an amazing year for film, the Academy Awards presentation itself was less than stellar. The most exciting moment was probably Melissa Leo dropping the F-bomb in her acceptance speech. The King's Speech was far from sweeping the event, only picking up four out of a possible twelve statues. The King did however take the biggest prizes in Best Director (in which Tom Hooper appeared he had just won the superbowl), Best Actor, and Best Picture.

There wasn't a dry eye in the house as Natalie Portman graciously accepted her well earned Oscar by thanking her parents, and "her love" who she said has given her the "most important role of her life." Most impressive in Portman's acceptance speech was her recognition of film crews-a win for production teams everywhere.

While Natalie said that she wished the prize was to "work with her fellow nominees," (for some reason Annette Bening seemed utterly shocked that her name wasn't called), Natalie's portrayal of Nina in Black Swan cannot even come close to comparison.

There was something to be desired with Anne Hathaway and James Franco hosting. There were fun moments, but the entire night just seemed so calculated. A group of 5th grade chorus student from Staten Island showed up all the adult performers of the evening. Judging by his reception, I have a feeling that The Academy may just be in talks with Billy Crystal to host the 2012 Oscars.

Click here for a full list of winners.

Photo Credits: Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences          

The Ten Reasons You Should Watch the Oscars...

1. Anne Hathaway and James Franco are hosting.
They're actors, it's not like Alec Baldwin or anything.

2. You may see a star on stage accepting an Academy Award before he/she is born.
 Oscar- Possible name for Natalie Portman's child?

3. Facebook may be unblocked at your workplace by Monday morning if The Social Network wins big.

You have been trying to convince your employer for months that Facebook has work related, intellectual value. Here's your chance.

4. Jesse Eisenberg does Mark Zuckerberg better than Zuckerberg can do himself. 
Zuckerberg is worth billions. He'd be worth trillions if he could talk as fast as Eisenberg.

5. If you can say a few words about The King's Speech, your friends might finally believe all that money you spent on college tuition was worth it.
It sounds so intelligent. Start talking about Colin Firth and tell them you're half British.

6. If Inception wins, you'll learn that cinematography is film lingo for the trick that made that movie look "freaking awesome."

Makeup is the reason you still have a crush on Leo.

7. There's a good chance Annette Bening will come dressed as a swan and Natalie Portman will bring Mila Kunis as her "date."
Darren Aronofsky will be directing this edition of "Best Actress Showdown."

8. You're ashamed to admit that you still haven't watched The Hurt Locker, and need to redeem yourself. 
You and the rest of the general populace had never heard of Kathryn Bigelow's prize winning picture. Just remember, no matter how much you cried during Toy Story 3, it won't win best picture.

9. Girl on girl action rules the nods.

This year's nominees have lots of girls kissing girls. Awkward to watch with your parents.


10. Oprah is presenting.
"Annnd the Oooooscar goooess tooooo..."      















Photo Credits: The Weinstein Company (True Grit), Fox Searchight (Black Swan), Sony Pictures (The Social Network) Warner Brothers (Inception) Focus Features (The Kids Are Alright)

First Look at Thor!

Captain America, Pirates 4, and Transformers 3 are all being released this year, which is pure bliss for action movie buffs. The most exciting of them all- Thor. Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Hopkins, and Natalie Portman are sure not to disappoint. Coming to a theater near you May 6,2011.



Liam Hemsworth Talks to MTV about Thor

Action Movie Breakdown

Photo credit: Marvel 2011

The Pretty Faces Off Camera

In 2010 Kathryn Bigelow took home the Oscar for "Best Director" for The Hurt Locker, which may have sparked some to say, "Women direct films?" Although many barriers have been broken, the gender stats of those working behind the scenes in film and television are still lop-sided.There's no need for a revolution on studios lots, but the lack of female screenwriters, directors, and producers leads to a lack of estrogen pumped films. 
The January issue of Vogue delved into the topic of women in filmmaking with our favorite Harvard grad, and the woman of the moment,Natalie Portman. Portman talks about starting her own production company with Annette Savitch, Handsomecharlie Films, with the goal of making more female- minded movies. Portman says, "Most movies are made by men, it's totally natural they're going to present their worldview, so we're trying to find more women  who are writers and directors who are expressing their worldview" (Vogue volume 201 no.1 p 102). 


The stress of Oscar buzz aside, Portman, who was an executive producer for No Strings Attached, discussed how the film almost never saw the screen. "This script had a character that was funny, with a real job and a real voice. but we had to fight to get it made. Studios always let boys be funny and raunchy, but it's a battle to convince them to let a girl; have that voice" (InStyle Volume 18 no.2 February/11 p 182). 
Maybe displaying that unexpected female character on-screen has attributed to the success of No Strings- it is slated to pass the $50 million mark by next weekend. Movies containing a strong female lead are refreshing since the woman is seen outside of her stereotypical film box.
   
Projects in development for Handsomecharlie Films are Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, along with Important Artifacts, which will co-star Brad Pitt (USA Today).  


Handsomecharlie Films recently teamed up with 1821 Pictures, allowing the two companies to produce projects together.       

SAG Awards 2011... Oscars or Bust!

The Screen Actor's Guild gathered to honor their own and oh what a talent filled night it was! Big winners included Betty White, Colin Firth and the cast of The King's Speech, Natalie Portman, and Melissa Leo. This is the last hurrah of awards season before the biggest night of all- The Oscars!
The King's Speech won big at the DGA's last night, and proved successful again this evening, which is making 12 Oscars look easy.
SAG may just be the best predictor of Academy Award wins, since actors make up a good chunk of the Academy. Many awards season analysts were wrong about major categories tonight, including Natalie Portman over Annette Bening for "Outstanding Actress" and the cast of The King's Speech over The Social Network. February 27th is just around the corner, but until then, stay well informed before you call your bookie in Vegas.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

And The Oscar Goes To...

Here is a list of Oscar nominations in major categories. 

Below each category is my take on the nominations, and my very biased opinion of who I think should win!

Best Picture

Black Swan
The Fighter
Inception
The Kids Are All Right
The King's Speech
127 Hours
The Social Network
Toy Story 3
True Grit
Winter's Bone


Let's face it, this has been a great year in movies! "The Social Network" took the Globe home, but I think "Black Swan" has what it takes to win best picture. The real contenders "True Grit," "The Fighter," and "The King's Speech"   

Best Director

"Black Swan" Darren Aronofsky
"The Fighter" David O. Russell
"The King's Speech" Tom Hooper
"The Social Network" David Fincher
"True Grit" Joel Coen and Ethan Coen


Fincher and the Coen Brothers are faves here but again I hink Aronoifsky directed one fantastic film, and deserves the win.  

Best Actor

Javier Bardem in "Biutiful"
Jeff Bridges in "True Grit"
Jesse Eisenberg in "The Social Network"
Colin Firth in "The King's Speech"
James Franco in "127 Hours"


Where is Mark Whalberg? I knew the Academy would snub Whalberg. If he isn't a contender, I think Eisenberg was the most convincing computer nerd the world has ever seen and deserves the win.  

Best Actress

Annette Bening in "The Kids Are All Right"
Nicole Kidman in "Rabbit Hole"
Jennifer Lawrence in "Winter's Bone"
Natalie Portman in "Black Swan"
Michelle Williams in "Blue Valentine"


If Natalie Portman does not win this I may cry for two days straight on her behalf.

Best Supporting Actor

Christian Bale in "The Fighter"
John Hawkes in "Winter's Bone"
Jeremy Renner in "The Town"
Mark Ruffalo in "The Kids Are All Right"
Geoffrey Rush in "The King's Speech"


Christian Bale is the fave, Jeremy Renner would be a pleasant surprise. 

Best Supporting Actress

Amy Adams in "The Fighter"
Helena Bonham Carter in "The King's Speech"
Melissa Leo in "The Fighter"
Hailee Steinfeld in "True Grit"
Jacki Weaver in "Animal Kingdom"


Melissa Leo would be the obvious choice, Hailee Steinfeld may have a shot.

Best Animated Feature Film

"How to Train Your Dragon" Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois
"The Illusionist" Sylvain Chomet
"Toy Story 3" Lee Unkrich


Toy Story 3 had everyone sobbing. It's just the Disney way.

Foreign Language Film

"Biutiful" Mexico
"Dogtooth" Greece
"In a Better World" Denmark
"Incendies" Canada
"Outside the Law (Hors-la-loi)" Algeria


Biutiful for the mere principal that it sounds artsy. 

Best Original Screenplay

"Another Year" Written by Mike Leigh
"The Fighter" Screenplay by Scott Silver and Paul Tamasy & Eric Johnson;
Story by Keith Dorrington & Paul Tamasy & Eric Johnson
"Inception" Written by Christopher Nolan
"The Kids Are All Right" Written by Lisa Cholodenko & Stuart Blumberg
"The King's Speech" Screenplay by David Seidler


Where is Black Swan? Inception was incredible, I'd go with Nolan.

Best Adapted Screenplay

"127 Hours" Screenplay by Danny Boyle & Simon Beaufoy
"The Social Network" Screenplay by Aaron Sorkin
"Toy Story 3" Screenplay by Michael Arndt; Story by John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton and Lee Unkrich
"True Grit" Written for the screen by Joel Coen & Ethan Coen
"Winter's Bone" Adapted for the screen by Debra Granik & Anne Rosellini


The Social Network has this one hands down.


Find out who wins big as the Academy Awards are telecast live on Sunday February 27th.

Natalie Portman: Taking Over a Theater Near You

No one is more exciting in film than Natalie Portman at the present time. I've been known to say Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith is my all time favorite movie, but after Black Swan, Padme has a definite edge on Darth Vader. 
Other than her role as a disturbed ballerina, Portman stars alongside Ashton Kutcher in the comedy No Strings Attached, being released in the US January 21st. Portman can also be seen playing nurse "Jane Foster"  in the May 2011 action thriller, Thor with Anthony Hopkins and Chris Hemsworth. Coming Spring 2011, look for Portman to play with James Franco and Zooey Deschanel in the romantic comedy Your Highness. 
Portman is slated to be nominated for an Oscar for her role as "Nina" in Black Swan. Natalie's powerful performance left me and theaters full of movie-goers everywhere speechless. To move from such a powerful film to a laugh out loud comedy, then to an action thriller, shows Portman's versatility as an actress. She can sign on to any film she wants and conquer her role. I'm marking 2011 "The Year of Natalie Portman."  

 Natalie's projects:
    Black Swan

No Strings Attached

Thor

Natalie's # 1 At The Box Office!



Check out her great acceptance speech at the Globes:

Social Networking Proves More Clever Than Speech, Swans, Or Fighters: Golden Globes 2011

The Hollywood Foreign Press shows that it's a "Social Network" full of "Glee" after last night's awards. My predictions were completely off for the 2011 Golden Globes, but the night was a great celebration of achievements in film and television.
 Big wins were expected from The Social Network, Natalie Portman of Black Swan, The Kids Are Alright, and The Fighter. One major disappointment was in the category of "Best Supporting Actress," while I was extremely happy for Melissa Leo, I think Mila Kunis was robbed. 
If the Globes are any indication of the Oscars, whose nods come out in a couple days, it looks like the cast of The Social Network better take to Facebook for acceptance speech ideas, because they will be making a lot of them. 
A movie is more than the writing, the acting, or the directing alone; it's all of those things working together to create a piece of art that, in its best form, will blow audiences away. For that, The Social Network deserved "Best Motion Picture Drama" While it was a tough call between David Fincher and Darren Aronofsky, Black Swan was rich in content that was delivered to the screen in a remarkable way that should have gotten Aronofsky the win. Another snub, was what I'd like to call a "token award" given to Colin Firth of The King's Speech over Eisenberg or Whalberg. Until the HFPA calls me in, I guess predictions will have to do. All in all, the Globes were a great prelude to film's biggest night. You can get a complete list of winners here.
Tell me what you thought about the Globes in the comments section!      
     

Black Swan: Oscar Worthy- Yes. An Excuse For Eating Disorders-No

Aside from Oscar buzz, Black Swan is causing health buzz due to the fact that Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis each lost 20 pounds for their roles as ballerinas.
 I believe there has always been a stereotype on dancers being "anorexic" because of the pressure to maintain a petite body type. Pro- anorexia websites are using this film as an excuse for their cause, but they fail to see the true meaning behind what's displayed on- screen. Nina's (Portman) behaviors help to enhance her character, and the film's ultimate resolution. In an interview with ABC (which can be seen by clicking below), Portman speaks out about a review in the New York Times calling Ballerinas in The Nutcracker, "fat." Clearly the focus of this film is not the controversial topics that can be pulled from it, but the flawless performances by Kunis and Portman under the great direction of  Darren Aronofsky.       
Natalie Portman Talks Ballet