Game : Gran Turismo 5 Prologue

Release Date: 4/15/2008
Platforms:
PUBLISHER: Sony Computer Entertainment
DEVELOPER: Polyphony Digital
GENRE(S): Racing, Driving
PLAYERS: 16
ESRB RATING: E (Everyone)
RELEASE DATE: April 15, 2008

Review: Gran Turismo 5: Prologue
Review by Travis Moses

Gran Turismo 5: Prologue is a heavy-hitting race simulator offering more than a taste of all the features to come in the final game. Although purely an appetizer, is it worth $40 before the main course?

Definition: Prologue -noun: a preliminary trial; a preface or introduction.

Note that Gran Turismo 5: Prologue is a "lite" version of Gran Turismo 5, a precursor if you will, to a game that's rumored to arrive in late 2009. "Demo" is the wrong word, but it gets the point across. But this isn't a bad thing because Prologue is an early, extensive hands-on experience that allows players to enjoy abridged features of the final version. Prologue is available on both Blu-ray (April 15th) and the PlayStation Network (April 17th).

Series' favorite High Speed Ring race track returns as one of the six playable courses in Prologue.

The Basics

Available only on the PlayStation 3, GT5: Prologue is the most realistic racing simulation on the market. This is reflected in many ways, from the graphics to the sound to the feel of the racing. Prologue features over 70 cars: you'll see favorites such as the Nissan GT-R, Ford GT, and for the first time in the series, high-end Ferraris including the sporty F40 line. There are six full race courses available, each with alternative and reverse routes. The racetrack scenery remains the same, but switching the route creates a completely different feel and strategy for each track, which actually ups the track count to near a dozen.

Our favorite new feature in Prologue, though, is the interior dashboard view, which puts you in the driver's seat of every car in the game. No more bumper view taglines proclaiming that you're behind the wheel. You really are in GT5: Prologue with fully modeled driver arms and hands that grip the steering wheel of each individual car. I've never sat inside a real Delta Lancia HF Integrale rally car before, and probably never will, but the new in-dash view reveals the actual, physical detail and geometry inside that car. And at 1080p resolution, you couldn't be more in the action.

Press the Select button to cycle through different views. The interior dash view adds even more realism to an already hyper realistic racing sim.

The graphics in GT5: Prologue are even better than Crysis -- they're stunningly realistic. Race replays showcase moments of photo realism you can't find in any other game. The visuals are so crisp, you'll spot blades of grass swaying in the wake of nearby wind currents caused by the speeding cars. The high-dynamic range lighting will remind you of Half-Life 2 as you exit a dark tunnel only to be momentarily blinded by the blinding sunlight. We did notice a difference between the visible "jaggies" between 720p and 1080p resolutions. This is due to the detail of geometry used to model every curve and crevice of the cars. Therefore, the best experience is on a 1080p television. If you're looking for a truly premium experience in GT5: Prologue, we recommend a Sony Bravia or Grand Wega for maximum color vibrancy and sharp definition.

The astonishing detail extends to the game's audio. The sound of each car is individually recorded from every angle, including inside the cockpit for the new interior dash view. This has been a staple since Gran Turismo 3, so hardcore fans should already have a booming 5.1 surround sound system if not better.

If your PS3 is connected to the internet via broadband, you can race online with support for up to 16 players. You can also access Gran Turismo TV, which is a dedicated online channel that delivers exclusive motorsport and manufacturer content, but unfortunately, GT TV is only available in broadcast quality and not HD.

Control Yourself

The controls, as always, are the magic component of any racing game, and in GT5: Prologue the functions are completely changeable between face buttons, analog sticks, and shoulder buttons. We recommend the new Dual-Shock 3 for the rumble effect, because it's not just the motor of the car that will spark up the vibrate function, each track has been felt up for unique grooves of wear and tear. Also, try the analog stick for more realistic gas and break leverage.

Feel the Force

The Logitech Driving Force GT Wheel is available now for $149.99. It features a 24-position real-time adjustment dial that allows you to fine-tune brake bias, TCS, and damper settings on the fly.

Even better, I got my hands on the new Logitech Driving Force GT Wheel exclusively developed for Gran Turismo 5 and Prologue. If you're looking for the ultimate racing experience, this is it. This wheel rocks! It adds a level of difficulty which takes some getting used to, but it makes the in-dash view ten times more fun. And the force feedback is unrivaled. The wheel responds perfectly to your every movement as well as the car's. You can try and hold on to the wheel and fight against a spinout, but you'll probably break an arm in the process.

Now, that's a lot of gameplay and features for a mere demo. "Demo" is the wrong word here, and I hope you see why. But a key question remains: Is Gran Turismo 5: Prologue worth spending $40 dollars for? Absolutely. Yes. Without a doubt. If you purchase the Blu-ray version in stores. Not the PlayStation Network version, however. Why? Because the Blu-ray version comes with an additional HD behind the scenes featurette of the GT franchise called Beyond the Apex. The downloadable PSN version does not, and we'd prefer to see a lower price point of $34.99 or even $29.99. You're not getting extra content, and you're helping Sony with PSN traffic. With a downloadable game, Sony don't even have to print a disc.

There are loads of other features too, such as a new drift mode, car tuning, 2-player split screen, and an arcade mode. You get the picture. Prologue is massive and exactly what the PS3 needs to rev up the install base alongside Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots.

Taken From : http://www.gamepro.com


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'Dark Knight' sets box office record with $66.4M

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A Warner Bros. executive says the Batman sequel "The Dark Knight" has set a single-day box office record by taking in $66.4 million on opening day.

The movie's Friday haul surpasses the previous record of $59.8 million set last year by "Spider-Man 3." "The Dark Knight" also might break the opening weekend record of $151.1 million that also was posted by "Spider-Man 3."

Warner Bros. head of distribution Dan Fellman says the death of co-star Heath Ledger and the buzz about his frenzied performance as the Batman villain Joker was a big part of the movie's allure.

taken from yahoo.com
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The Best Pop Songs

Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody have been chosen as the best of pop song for all times. From the surveys with 10 thousands responder. This song gives in songs from Bryan Adams, Robbie Williams and John Lennon.

Top 10 Pop Songs

1. Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen
2. Y.M.C.A - Village People
3. Everything I do, I do it for you - Bryan Adams
4. Angels - Robbie Williams
5. Red, red wine - UB40
6. Imagine - John Lennon
7. Sweet child o'mine - Guns N' Roses
8. Billie Jean - Michael Jackson
9. Dancing Queen - ABBA
10. Can't get you out of my head - Kylie Minogue

survey by onepoll.com

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Music : Kid Rock ' All Summer Long Song'

Kid Rock - All Summer Long Song

The mash up was created by former bassist Mike Bradford and he got a production credit for the song.
The song was the official theme song for WWE’s Backlash 2008.

Released March 30, 2008
Recorded Clarkston Chophouse Clarkston,MI
Genre Southern rock
Length 4:56
Label Atlantic
Writers RJ Ritchie,Marlon Young
Producer Mike Bradford

Single Review: “All Summer Long” by Kid Rock
by cowboybleau

Kid Rock can be considered a master of all genres, having scored hits in country, rap, rock, pop and even blues and jazz. One song, “Picture”, scored success in most of these at the same time. Once again Kid Rock makes his cross over into country with his latest single from his album “Rock N’ Roll Jesus”. Kid takes a look back at his younger summer days and relives the fun times he had with the boys and the girl listening to their favorite music and just messing around.

Now this song would have just been a useless attempt at a country/rock twist, however the one thing that makes this song shine is that it refers to the song “Sweet Home Alabama” as the song that him and his buddies sang in those careless and wonderful summer days of old and even incorporates the familiar and famous solo into the chorus. Also, as with many recent singles, this song is a timing release meant to make for an enjoyable summer radio hit, and that it is. In the end it is much more rock than country, but at this point it is useless to criticize Kid Rock for his lack of “actual” country sound in his singles due to their cross-over status, so this can just be defined as your typical well timed Kid Rock hit, nothing really that special, but nothing that isn’t worth a listen.(countrycentral.wordpress.com)


Kid Rock 'All Summer Long' , Music Video and Lyrics

“All Summer Long” is the 3rd single from Rock N Roll Jesus, the sixth studio album by Kid Rock.
The song is a mash up of Warren Zevon’s “Werewolves Of London” and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama”.

You can listen the song here, this is a video taken on Jimmy Kimmel Live 4.03.2008.

Kid Rock - All Summer Long Lyrics

It was 1989, my thoughts were short my hair was long
Caught somewhere between a boy and man
She was seventeen and she was far from in-between
It was summertime in Northern Michigan
Ahh Ahh Ahh
Ahh Ahh Ahh

Splashing through the sand bar
Talking by the campfire
It’s the simple things in life, like when and where
We didn’t have no internet
But man I never will forget
The way the moonlight shined upon her hair

[Chorus:]
And we were trying different things
We were smoking funny things
Making love out by the lake to our favorite song
Sipping whiskey out the bottle, not thinking ’bout tomorrow
Singing Sweet home Alabama all summer long
Singing Sweet home Alabama all summer long

Catching Walleye from the dock
Watching the waves roll off the rocks
She’ll forever hold a spot inside my soul
We’d blister in the sun
We couldn’t wait for night to come
To hit that sand and play some rock and roll

While we were trying different things
And we were smoking funny things
Making love out by the lake to our favorite song
Sipping whiskey out the bottle, not thinking ’bout tomorrow
Singing Sweet Home Alabama all summer long
Singing Sweet Home Alabama all summer long

Now nothing seems as strange as when the leaves began to change
Or how we thought those days would never end
Sometimes I’ll hear that song and I’ll start to sing along
And think man I’d love to see that girl again

[Repeat Chorus x2]

Singing Sweet Home Alabama all summer long
Singing Sweet Home Alabama all summer long
Singing Sweet Home Alabama all summer long
Singing Sweet Home Alabama all summer long


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Music : Black Kids ' Partie Traumatic'

Album
Black Kids
Partie Traumatic
[Mercury]
Artist: Black Kids
Released: 07 July 2008
(Almost Gold)
Catalogue number: AGUK1CD

Review Album by WILL HERMES,

It's true: Black Kids know how to get down. The interracial crew's "I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance With You" was last year's hottest indie-rock tail-wagger — a campy mix of pillow-fight synth-pop and B-52s giddiness. Rerecorded versions of "Boyfriend" and other songs from the band's 2007 EP, Wizard of Ahhhs, make up the best moments of their sugary debut LP — which is a tad worrying. But with Brit-pop vet Bernard Butler behind the decks, these Floridians still toss out an impressive 10-song party grenade.


Their remake of Ahhhs' "Hurricane Jane" is a gender-twisted disco jam, with frontman Reggie Youngblood mewling like Robert Smith and confessing, "I want you here inside me," to the title's tomboy. "I've Underestimated My Charm (Again)" is a hyperactive fever dream of Brill Building pop. "Listen to Your Body Tonight" nods to "Take Your Time (Do It Right)," the S.O.S. Band's slinky 1980 electro-funk strut, with Youngblood urging boys and girls to jump into bed with someone. He might convince you to do so too.
Taken from : http://www.rollingstone.com

Biography
There are any number of reasons to put a band together; Black Kids have one of their own. Ask Reggie Youngblood, Black Kids co founder, what drives this much talked about group and he replies. “Our goal is to create music that would incite one to dance and to cry.”

On their much-anticipated Columbia Records debut Partie Traumatic, Black Kids -Ali Youngblood (vocals/key), Dawn Watley (keys/vocals), Owen Holmes (bass), Kevin Snow (drums) and Reggie (vocals/guitar) hit that goal dead on. Produced by ex-Suede guitarist Bernard Butler, Partie Traumatic is an infectious fusion of heart and hips; ten songs as energetic and pop injected, as they are emotional and reflective; albeit with a knowing if not sardonic twist. “We've been getting the impression that the record appeals to people of all ages, “ Reggie explains, “but really, it's a teenager's record. Those perfect pop records, which deal with women? That inspired us. It made us anxious to get our hearts broken. We want to pass that disease on: chronic, unnecessary heartache and lust.”

Witness “I’m Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You”. Offers Reggie, “I’m Not Gonna…” is by far, the easiest song we've ever written. I conceived it while working in a miserable call center, presented it to the group at our first rehearsal, and we played it then exactly the way we play it now. I've read that it's the kind of song every band dreams of writing. Rightly so. I think the title existed long before the song did.” Much like Partie Traumatic, “I’m Not Gonna Teach Your Boy Friend How To Dance With You” is a nod towards and subsequent reinvention of Black Kids eclectic influences; i.e. The Smiths, Beatles, disco, New Order, 80’s Hair Metal, New Wave, Prince and Neil Young. Or as Reggie sums it up, “Every Goddamn thing”.



Flat out cool and peppered with New Wave guitars and synths “I’m Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You”, was released in the UK Spring 2008. Shortly afterwards the single was embraced by the notoriously harsh British press and then made its way on to the UK charts and radio, debuting in the single sales charts at an impressive #11. The song took them from sold out performances around the country to national television, appearing on top music show “Later…With Jools Holland” in April before they returned to the US for a jubilant coast –to-coast tour with Cut Copy. There’s not really too much difference between fans over there or here, Reggie says. “Except that US audiences tend to exclaim, "You guys were fuckin' AWESOME!" While UK audiences prefer "fuckin' WICKED!" Even so, Black Kids status as musical exports did throw the kids from Jacksonville, Florida for a loop. “I’m not quite certain why the English took to us so fast, although I secretly hoped it would occur that way, but now, I’m confounded that it has. We were on (talk show host) Jonathan Ross’ show recently, and he was convinced that we were English. But if you dissect our lyrics, there’s the kind of slang that only an American who grew up in the 80’s would know. “

Ranging in age between 22 and 28 years old, Black Kids’ story begins with Reggie and his younger sister Ali. As Navy brats, Reggie and Ali moved frequently, living in three continents before the family settled in Jacksonville in 1986. The siblings met Jacksonville natives Kevin Snow and Owen Holmes in the late 90s and as the guys came into their teens they joined a string of rock groups. Owen and Reggie’s last musical incarnation was titled Mata Hari and when they broke up Reggie, “through force and coercion” started the process of putting a new band together. First he reached out to Kevin and then “proceeded to bully” his sister Ali who, in turn, insisted on bringing in her friend (and youngest Black Kid) Dawn Watley. Ali and Dawn met a few years earlier, on a “sunny day in the park”, and bonded over their shared love for music and crafts. Ali, a guitarist, and Dawn, a pianist, were already collaborating together on songwriting when Reggie came looking for new band mates.



The newly formed group called themselves “Black Kids” a decision, which Reggie explains, was “a clue from the Universe”. The significanceof the name? “It means quite a bit, and not much. On the trivial side, we think it sounds badass and looks cool. We like how it can be seen as contentious, but is actually innocuous; Besides, at any given moment in pop history, it's young, black people who are the innovators. Who are underground. Ali and I are black and being a black man, I have no problem with copping that imagery.”

In 2007 Black Kids put Wizards of Ahhhs on their MySpace page. Along with a demo of “I’m Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance” the EP featured early versions of “the anthem for womanizers” -"Hit The Heartbrakes”, “Hurricane Jane” and “I’ve Underestimated My Charm”-all included on Partie Traumatic.

A little more than year after Wizard Of Ahhs became available, Black Kids were in the studio, and playing sold out gigs in the UK and America, and a spot in Rolling Stone’s “10 Artists To Watch” issue; a heady career trajectory to be sure. “I mean, we did expect some sort of reaction,” Reggie says, “but not so sudden. We've seemed to skip many steps. Like, touring regionally, signing to an indie label, releasing an album.” That zero to sixty successes has caused critics to dub them Next Big Things but as many know that title can be a double-edged sword. “That’s true”, Reggie admits, “but one side is too dull to matter and the other so sharp you don't feel a thing.”

Black Kids road from there to here might have been fast, maybe too fast for some folks liking but at the end of the day, as clichéd as it might sound. It is all about the music and the experience, which gives you the freedom to take that music anywhere it needs to be.

“It's immensely gratifying to play music for a living,” Reggie says, “but you don't really get to "clock out". I pursued music as a means to avoid mundane and unsatisfying work. I work now more than ever. Thankfully.”(musicremedy.com)

Tracklist
1. Hit The Heartbreaks
2. Partie Traumatic
3. Listen To Your Body Tonight
4. Hurricane Jane
5. I'm Making Eyes At You
6. I've Underestimated My Charm (Again)
7. I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance with You
8. Love Me Already
9. I Wanna Be Your Limousine
10. Look At Me (When I Rock Wichoo)

Hurricane Jane by Black Kids, Music Video and Lyrics

“Hurricane Jane” is the second single from American rock band Black Kids, taken from their debut album Partie Traumatic.
The single premiered on May 6 during Zane Lowe’s BBC Radio 1 show.

The music video was filmed in London in April 2008 and directed by Rozan & Schmeltz.
You can listen the song here, this is the official video.

Black Kids - Hurricane Jane Lyrics

Jane, I’ve made it plain,
although I’m faded as a ghost:
I want you here inside me.
Say the word.
Oh, you’ve been playing nice,
but I can see it in your eyes,
you’re thinking, “Christ.
He’s everybody’s girl.”

You can’t spend the night…

Jane, I’ve seen you at the club.
You were tearin’ up the rug
with no regard for form.
You’re such a brute!
You had a ready elbow
for the girls you hate
or just don’t know.
You head-butt me,
cos you thought it was cute.

You can’t spend the night…
Yes, I’m sure you’re right.
You can’t spend the night…
Yeah, I’m sure you’re right.
You can’t spend the night…
Yes, I’m sure you’re right.
But we could spend the night together.
Or alone. That would be better.

It’s Friday night and I ain’t got nobody.
Oh, what’s the use of making a bed?
I took something and it feels like karate;
it’s kicked me down and left me for dead.
It’s Friday night and I ain’t got nobody,
so what’s the use of pulling a shape?
I put what I want, when I want, in my body.
I’m never gonna give what I take.

Jane, I’ve seen the pain you’ve dealt.
You’ve been with all my friends.
You tell me guard my heart,
I might get hurt.
No doubt you’ll hurt my feelings,
and it’s a given I’ll be kneeling.
But I’m telling myself
that it’s gonna be worth it.

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WALL-E Widget

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Music : The Ting Tings ' We Started Nothing'

The Ting Tings We Started Nothing
[BMG]
Artist: The Ting Tings
Released: 19 May 2008
Catalogue number: 88697313342

review by Sophie Hammer
(BBC.co.uk)
There comes a moment when even the most ardent cynic realises its time to sneak out of their jaded prison and gatecrash a party. And this summer, as a nation throws off its shackles of pessimism to the sounds of this debut, it'll happen to you too. Licking their wounds after trial-by-record-label with former outfit, Dear Eskimo, the Salford duo stared into the roiling canyon of resentment - and decided to go drinking instead. The result is the delirious joy-gasm known as We Started Nothing, and the soundtrack to what can only be described as a Ting Tings moment.

Stultifying career? Soul-sapping ex? Shoe-gazing again? Throw a party! And be sure to book a Great DJ! This dizzying, sing-a-long opening track is homage to their famed escapades as scenesters-in-residence at Islington Mill - Manchester's drizzly, down-to-earth rendering of Andy Warhol's Factory. With such a hedonistic pedigree, it'd be easy to dismiss them as purveyors of the slick hipster sneer, but they're unremittingly adorable. The Ting Tings are distinctive in the electro ephemera trade for their unpretentious quirkiness. It can be seen on such playful adventures in nonsensical imagery as Traffic Light and Fruit Machine.

The album scampers by in its springy Converse with suitably youthful exuberance. Yet, it has a spirit that can only come from experience. The shouty roll call of misnomers, That's Not My Name, is a feminist rant you can only write when you have the benefit of hindsight. It was inspired by the experience of singer/guitarist, Katie White, who was offered fame-for-flesh in their former incarnation. The track laments forgettable female starlets baring all for the lads. With idealism duly quashed, it's a refreshingly jovial indictment of modern music which, nonetheless, packs a punch.


Of course, any party worth its salt stays on way past the Ting Tings moment and, naturally, this duo aren't going to be going home alone any time soon. Their staggering six-minute title track is like a dishevelled dawn chorus, serenading the last men standing. Cynics can look on blankly as the pied pipers of hyper lead the conga into the middle of next zeitgeist.

The Ting Tings - We Started Nothing



Tracks:
01 Great DJ
02 That\'s Not My Name
03 Fruit Machine
04 Traffic Light
05 Shut Up And Let Me Go
06 Keep Your Head
07 We Walk
08 Be The One
09 Impacilla Carpisung
10 We Started Nothing



The Ting Tings We Started Nothing lyrics

No one dropped of waiting in despair
Every time I go there's no one there
So tell me where's the soul, oh! where's the soul
Submit it's all locked up, so hard to loose control

I started nothing, I wish I didn't x4

Wait on a new gonna bet on 1 today
How it's only all of us, if and buts falling dead
Tell me where's the soul, oh! Where's the soul
If it's been a whole day it's time to let it go

I started nothing, I wish I didn't x4

Now, often we keep qivin' in with what they say
We're too open when we're only shown 1 way
And with the offer open opportunity to do
To make a mighty step no insoles in my shoes

I started nothing I wish I didn't x4

Water's cold, ice is just a face skin deep
All you know, ice is just a face skin deep
Water's cold, ice is just a face skin deep
All you know, ice is just a face skin deep
Water's cold, ice is just a face skin deep
All you know, ice is just a face skin deep



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Movie : Swing Vote

Movie Info

Starring: Kevin Costner, Madeline Carroll, Paula Patton, Kelsey Grammer, Dennis Hopper, Nathan Lane, more cast
Theatrical Release Date: 08/01/2008
Rating: PG-13
MPAA Reasons: for language
Distributor(s): Touchstone
Production Co.: 1821 Pictures
Director(s): Joshua Michael Stern
Genre(s): Comedy
Themes: Heads of State, Single Parents, Crisis of Conscience
Tone: Wry, Biting, Satirical
Keywords: voting, campaign, election, TV-station, working-class, political-crisis, political-machine, presidential-election
Country of Origin: USA
Language: English

Synopsis

When the mischievous antics of a precocious 12-year-old girl result in the outcome of the United States presidential election hinging on the vote of her apathetic, likable loser of a father, the man who thought that life had long since passed him by is reluctantly thrust into the national spotlight in this political-themed comedy starring Kevin Costner. Bud Johnson (Costner) is your typical American -- a simple man and loving father who never would have thought he had the power to change the world. Though when election day finally arrives and Bud prepares to cast his ballot, his over-achieving daughter Molly proves the catalyst for a stunning series of events that place the fate of the free world in the hands of a man more comfortable slinging cases of beer -- her father. The two candidates will be portrayed by Dennis Hopper and Kelsey Grammer, with Nathan Lane and Stanley Tucci set to play their campaign managers. George Lopez also stars as a local TV-station manager that has to deal with the political factions as they set up camp in the small town.~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide



Movie Review (cinematical.com)
by Eugene Novikov

'Swing Vote' Jumps on Viral Bandwagon with Campaign Commercials
I know that studio attempts at "viral" internet marketing are a dime a dozen these days, but you should watch this. It's funny.

Swing Vote, due August 1st, presents the wildly improbable scenario that a United States presidential election comes down to one politically apathetic New Mexican's choice, leading the candidates -- an incumbent Republican played by Kelsey Grammer and a Democratic challenger played by Dennis Hopper -- to converge on his tiny hometown and court like they've never courted before. The obvious marketing hook: a campaign ad! Actually four of them, two by each candidate, all targeting Kevin Costner's Bud Johnson. My favorite one is above; the rest are here and here.



I like these because they're done with some nuance; I particularly enjoyed the parodies of real-life candidates' disingenuous tendency to "swing to the middle," decimating whatever convictions they previously claimed to hold to pander to "moderate" swing voters. The folks behind these videos take that to its absurd conclusion, of course, with the Republican uncomfortably embracing gay marriage and the Democrat haranguing his opponent about not being pro-life enough. The latter's the video I've embedded at the top of the post -- it cracked me up.













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Movie : The Mummy ' Tomb of the Dragon Emperor "

Movie info
STARRING : Jet Li , Brendan Fraser , John Hannah , Luke Ford , Anthony Wong Chau-Sang , Albert Kwan , Maria Bello , Michelle Yeoh , Isabella Leong
DIRECTOR(S) : Rob Cohen
PRODUCER(S) : Chris Brigham , Sean Daniel , Bob Ducsay , James Jacks , Josette Perrotta , Marc Pitre , Stephen Sommers
MUSIC : Randy Edelman
GENRE : Thriller, Horror, Fantasy, Drama, Comedy, Adventure, Action
RELEASE DATE : 1 August 2008

Synopsis (www.filmicafe.com)

The blockbuster global "Mummy" franchise takes a spellbinding turn as the action shifts to Asia for the next chapter in the adventure series, "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor." Brendan Fraser returns as explorer Rick O'Connell to combat the resurrected Han Emperor (Jet Li) in an epic that races from the catacombs of ancient China high into the frigid Himalayas. Rick is joined in this all-new adventure by son Alex (newcomer Luke Ford), wife Evelyn (Maria Bello) and her brother, Jonathan (John Hannah). And this time, the O'Connells must stop a mummy awoken from a 2,000-year-old curse who threatens to plunge the world into his merciless, unending service.



Doomed by a double-crossing sorceress (Michelle Yeoh) to spend eternity in suspended animation, China's ruthless Dragon Emperor and his 10,000 warriors have laid forgotten for eons, entombed in clay as a vast, silent terra cotta army. But when dashing adventurer Alex O'Connell is tricked into awakening the ruler from eternal slumber, the reckless young archaeologist must seek the help of the only people who know more than he does about taking down the undead: his parents.

As the monarch roars back to life, our heroes find his quest for world domination has only intensified over the millennia. Striding the Far East with unimaginable supernatural powers, the Emperor Mummy will rouse his legion as an unstoppable, otherworldly force...unless the O'Connells can stop him first. Now, in "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor," the trademark thrills and visually spectacular action of the "Mummy" series will be redefined for a new generation.



"The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" is helmed by director Rob Cohen ("The Fast and the Furious," "xXx") and written by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar ("Spider-Man 2," television's "Smallville"). Reprising their roles as producers in the series are Bob Ducsay, Sean Daniel, Stephen Sommers and James Jacks.

Movie Review
by Mike Barnard


The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor

Rick O'Connell was essentially a bland version of Indiana Jones for the turn of the millennium. Back then, the lack of a Spielberg/Lucas movie for ten years and big-budget CGI were its main attractions – it was easy to sell a popular imitation when the real thing was not forthcoming. This year we are being treated to both, and the third helping of The Mummy franchise looks to be lacking the careful consideration of Indiana Jones and The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull's lengthy pre-production schedule, probably in the hope it can piggyback off its more illustrious predecessor on the way to box office glory late in the summer. Should we retain some of our appetite for adventuring tomb raiders for August? It's quite hard to tell...

The action moves to the Far East for the Tomb of the Dragon Emperor where Rick (the returning Fraser) and his son Alex (Ford) dig up the mummy of the first Emperor of Qin (martial arts star Li) – a shape-shifting entity cursed centuries ago. Originally buried alongside 10,000 terra cotta soldiers, forces are in motion to bring him back from the dead in a re-conquest of China. Treks through the Himalayas, Yeti encounters, avalanches, three-headed dragons, pools of eternal life and epic battles will be ideal for mindless, end-of-summer fun.

The Mummy has never been the most highly respected of action movie series, but hopefully the appearance of Jet Li as Emperor Han will lead to a few examples of his martial arts expertise to go with the CGI action. Li has not been in a high profile blockbuster movie sequel like this since Lethal Weapon 4 first showcased his talents to mainstream action audiences. He failed to capture the hearts of western audiences in the same way as Jackie Chan in the films that followed, but here is an opportunity to be re-launched into the public consciousness. Whether he gets the chance to take centre stage as a shape-shifting baddie is another matter though.



The rest of the cast are in similar career lulls. Fraser has been relatively low key over the past few years, as has Hannah, which suggests the increasingly-respected Rachel Weisz turned down the chance to reprise her role as Rick's wife Evelyn because she had better things to do. Maria Bello takes her place while Michelle Yeoh is also on board for the ride, presumably because she is a recognisable Asian actress. Previous director Stephen Sommers has not had a film released since the disappointing Van Helsing in 2004 but has opted to produce this third Mummy film in favour of other projects such as 2009's G.I. Joe. Rob Cohen, who has recently been seen working on dumb action movies such as he Fast and the Furious, Stealth and xXx, has been given the reins for the third film so don’t be surprised if this is another high octane, low brains thrill ride. That said, the sight of a 10,000-strong terra cotta army marching towards world domination and led by Jet Li does sound like an impressive sight.
Taken From : http://www.futuremovies.co.uk



The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor (2008) Trailer






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Movie : Red Cliff

Movie Info
Starring: Tony Leung Chiu-Wai, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Zhang Fengyi, Lin Chiling, Vicky Zhao, Chang Chenmore cast
Theatrical Release Date: 12/31/2010
Rating: Not Yet Rated
Distributor(s): Avex Entertainment
Production Co.: Avex Entertainment
Director(s): John Woo
Genre(s): Epic and Historical
Country of Origin: Japan

Synopsis (movies.msn.com)

John Woo's historical drama The Battle of Red Cliff re-creates the legendary Chinese battle from 208 A.D. that led directly to the end of the Han Dynasty. The film charts how different factions joined forces to create this turning point in history. Chow Yun-Fat stars in the film that is adapted from part of the beloved Chinese book Romance of the Three Kingdoms. ~ Perry Seibert, All Movie Guide



Review: 'Red Cliff ' restores credibility of Chinese epic

A true epic needs more than the grandeur of its landscapes, the lavishness of its sets and the sheer manpower of its battle scenes: It needs a truly epic story.

John Woo displays the crucial distinction in the magnificently told Red Cliff, the Hong Kong director's triumphant return to Chinese film after 16 years in Hollywood.

Using old-fashioned good storytelling, Red Cliff restores credibility to the genre of Chinese historical epics that have often been tainted by pointlessly large-scaled and action-packed productions.


Woo is helped by a wealth of source material. Red Cliff is based on a storied historical period that has inspired video games and comic books - third-century prime minister Cao Cao's quest to unite a divided China.

But the director breathes new life into Cao and the colourful cast of characters that oppose him.

There's the ruthless and arrogant Cao, who dishes out beheading orders casually and lusts after the wife of one of the resistance fighters; his main rival, the avuncular Liu Bei, who despite Cao's invasion still finds time to weave grass shoes; Liu's pudgy and hotheaded lieutenant Zhang Fei, who never hesitates to speak his mind.



Liu's ally, Sun Quan, is a young ruler who struggles to find his confidence living under the shadow of his accomplished late brother and father.

Woo takes the time to introduce anecdotes that define each character. The epic battle scenes involving scores of extras and enhanced by special effects are still there - including a complex fight centered on a maze-like military formation - but most of Red Cliff is spent filling out the rich cast of characters.



The director is so keen on building an epic story that he even leaves the final showdown between the two sides to a second installment. Red Cliff, which will be released in Asia this month, is the first part. The sequel will be released in December.

Woo's grand narrative justifies the two-parter. In Red Cliff, he paints such a delightful ensemble of characters and sets up such a sharp contrast between the two opposing sides, bracing the audience for a titanic battle between Good and Evil in the sequel.

The outstanding storytelling and character building is reminiscent of Star Wars. The story feels similarly epic; the characters similarly funky. Interestingly, the English subtitles cast Liu's side as the "rebels" and their opponents as the "empire" - the same terminology used in George Lucas' legendary sci-fi series.

And Woo injects humour and a modern sensibility into his characters, removing any feeling that these are outdated personalities hundreds of years old.

Japanese-Taiwanese heartthrob Takeshi Kaneshiro brings youthful playfulness and sarcasm to the role of Liu's famed military strategist, Zhuge Liang. At first glance, Kaneshiro lacks the gravitas to carry such an esteemed character in Chinese history, but he gives the character a unique, refreshing interpretation.

But the biggest surprise in the cast is Chinese actress Zhao Wei, who steals the show with her portrayal of Sun's spunky tomboy sister Sun Shangxiang, frustrated that her military ambitions are dismissed by the men around her.



With Red Cliff, Woo shows he's still a masterful director to be reckoned with.

It's a feat made all the more outstanding by the difficulties he faced in the production. Two major stars - Chow Yun-fat and Cannes best actor winner Tony Leung Chiu-wai - dropped out at the last minute, although Leung later rejoined the cast. A stuntman died in an accident and torrential rains washed away part of an outdoor set in northern China.



It's unclear, however, if Woo's story can win over non-Asian audiences who are less familiar with the Chinese history. He is releasing a condensed, one-installment version in international markets. It remains to be seen if the abbreviated story will lose the character development and nuances that enabled Red Cliff to shine.
Taken From :http://www.odt.co.nz





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Movie : The Midnight Meat Train

Movie Info
Starring:Bradley Cooper, Leslie Bibb, Brooke Shields
Theatrical Release Date:08/01/2008
Rating:R
MPAA Reasons:for sequences of strong bloody gruesome violence, grisly images involving nudity, sexual content and language
Distributor(s):Lionsgate
Production Co.:GreeneStreet Films
Director(s):Ryuhei Kitamura
Genre(s):Action, Crime and Mystery, Horror
Themes:Serial Killers, Obsessive Quests, Witnessing a Crime
Tone:Tense, Creepy, Gruesome, Menacing, Stylized, Disturbing
Keywords:subway, art-dealer, photography
Country of Origin:USA - Limited
Language:English
Rating: 7 out of 10

Synopsis (http://www.moviefone.com)

A photographer propelled to explore his dark side begins tracking a subway serial killer whose brutal butchery makes for the most nightmarish images ever captured on camera in director Ryuhei Kitamura's adaptation of a short story by horror heavyweight Clive Barker. Leon Kaufman (Bradley Cooper) is just another struggling photographer in search of the perfect subject. Encouraged to explore the sinister side of humanity by a prominent art gallery proprietor (Brooke Shields) who is set to display his upcoming debut, Leon goes against the wishes of his girlfriend, Maya (Leslie Bibb), and begins stalking notorious serial killer Mahogany (Vinnie Jones) -- whose sadistic murder spree has been making headlines all across the country. As Leon's fascination with Mahogany gradually grows into obsession, his descent into the killer's putrid world of murder begins to corrupt his soul while simultaneously dragging his concerned girlfriend down a perverse path of darkness from which there is no return. - Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide


Review The Midnight Meat Train
Reviewed by: Ryan Rotten

Midnight Meat Train, when first set to paper by Clive Barker in his late-20s, was a reaction to his confusing and uncomforting first time in Manhattan, notably a subway excursion that propelled him beyond the city limits. The fears that came out of that ordeal inspired one of the most unforgettable and long-cherished entries in Barker's lauded Books of Blood collection, a story of a chance encounter between a New Yorker and a subway-lurking serial killer. Each of them feeding the city in their own ways. MMT is arguably one of Barker's leanest, meanest works, and from the Books of Blood it was always a leading heavyweight contender for the silver screen. Years after trading hands from Bernard Rose (who considered the material for a Candyman sequel) to Patrick Tatopoulos, MMT has been super-injected by the hyper stylings of Ryuhei Kitamura and the assured, bumpy narrative expansion by Jeff Buhler. For the first time since Rose's Candyman (possibly one of the best horror films of the '90s in my opinion), they've done right by the Barker name as MMT is a mature adaptation that pulls no punches and takes no prisoners even if it does tend to meander.

Bradley Cooper is Leon, a photographer living with his supportive girlfriend, Maya (Bibb), a waitress at a nearby diner where the former exercises his dislike for red meat by regularly bringing tofu for the cook to prepare. Leon gets his big chance to woo a local art gallery owner, Susan Hoff (Shields), but when she delivers him some harsh truths about his work, he's forced to go deeper and get grittier before his photos can be deemed worthy to line Hoff's gallery. So, off Leon goes, into the bowels of the city, at first drawn to the subway by following a group of thugs who ultimately harass a young woman Leon saves. The next day, however, said woman is on the front page of the paper, reported "missing." His second jaunt to the subway introduces him to a tall, trim fella named Mahogany (Jones in a non-speaking role) which sets off an obsession in Leon and an eventual suspicion that Mahogany could be responsible for a rash of disappearances throughout the city. This naturally upsets his loving relationship with Maya and propels Leon down a blood-soaked path.

MMT rockets out of the station with something downright furious in its heart - starting off strong and wasting little time plumbing the depths of Leon's dedication to his craft. And Cooper is up to the task, wriggling out of the comedic skin he was growing accustomed to in films like The Wedding Crashers. Buhler constructs an involving story, falling back on the source material for the last third of the film. He parallels Leon's downward spiral with some scenes of outright jaw-dropping commuter assaults involving Mahogany who's always wielding a silver mallet that he puts to expert use over and over and over again. And the results never grow tiring. Hallelujah. Buhler's expansion of Barker's tale comes with growing pains, however, and there's a little fat that could be trimmed mostly involving Leon and Maya's often cryptic interactions. There's also a sense of sympathy for Mahogany, evident in the Barker story, that's lost in translation. Still, Jones is a force to be reckoned with and his performance recalls the old days of cinema where so much expression needs to be read in the eyes and face.

As Kitamura's American debut, MMT cuts to the bone and sets the senses ablaze with eye-popping visuals. The man f**kin' goes to town importing the kinetic mayhem he wrought in Versus and combining it with Jonathan Sela's photography that embraces the sickening fluorescent and neon tints of the subway and the city. If Michael Mann had directed a slasher film somewhere between Thief and The Keep, Midnight Meat Train might have been the outcome - cold, unyielding and driven by a synth '80s score (here, executed deftly by Johannes Kobilke and Robb Williamson).

There are some ballsy, memorable kills on display and Kitamura doesn't skimp on the blood. He also obviously doesn't mind the ambiguity Buhler's script offers in the end (a faithful conclusion) which is so goddamn refreshing in this day and age of exposition making the world go 'round.

Questionable pacing issues aside, Midnight Meat Train is a welcome, adult R-rated horror film. A sobering reminder - hitting you like a slap to the face - that there are still plenty of Barker stories, however bizarre, ripe for adaptation. Midnight Meat Train was one and it may have taken some time to reach its final destination, but the wait was worth it. It's seedy, strange, creepy as hell and it relishes an exploitive gross-out gag here and there. That's a ticket to ride I'd buy any day.
Taken From : http://www.shocktillyoudrop.com












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Movie: The Rocker

Directed by Peter Cattaneo
Produced by Shawn Levy
Written by Wallace Wolodarsky
Cinematography Anthony B. Richmond
Distributed by Fox Atomic
Release date(s) August 20, 2008
Running time 102 Minutes
Country United States
Language English
Starring: Rainn Wilson, Christina Applegate, Teddy Geiger, Howard Hesseman, Jeff Garlin, Bradley Cooper, Will Arnett, Fred Armisen, Josh Gad, Emma Stone.
Director: Peter Cattaneo
Rating: NR
Category: Comedy / Romance
Studio: Fox Atomic

Movie Story (www.moviesonline.ca)

“The Rocker” is Robert “Fish” Fishman, the drummer for an eighties hair band. He's living the rock n’ roll dream… until he is kicked out of the group. Twenty years later, the desperate rocker joins his nephew’s band, “A.D.D.,” finally reclaiming the rock-god throne he’s always thought he deserved -- while taking his much younger bandmates along for the ride of their lives

Review: The Rocker
by Eric D. Snider




I like the premise of The Rocker so much -- middle-aged wannabe rock star insinuates himself into his teenage nephew's band -- that I'm inclined to go easy on it solely out of good will. It's likable enough, a lightweight rock 'n' roll comedy punctuated by several belly laughs -- but those laughs are all in response to the one-liners, and mostly from one minor character (more on that later). The story, the central personalities, and the uninspired slapstick are bland.

The title wannabe is Robert "Fish" Fishman, played by Rainn Wilson (of TV's The Office) in his first major film role. Fish was the drummer for Vesuvius, a mid-'80s heavy-metal band, but was kicked out on the eve of the group's success. Now, two decades later, Vesuvius is huge and Fish is a bitter has-been (or, rather, never-was).

He gets a new shot at glory, though, as drummer of A.D.D., an emo band whose keyboard player is Fish's chubby nephew Matt (Josh Gad). The lead singer and guitarist, sullen teen Curtis (Teddy Geiger), and bassist Amelia (Emma Stone) are reluctant, but Fish is actually really good on the kit, and he swears he can find them a gig.

The story's trajectory from there is comfortable and familiar (some would say formulaic), and right in line with director Peter Cattaneo's previous efforts, The Full Monty and Lucky Break (about prisoners who stage a musical as a cover for their escape plans). A YouTube video of Fish's unusual drumming techniques earns the band some attention, followed by a record contract, followed by a tour. Fish seeks to make up for lost time by overdoing the rock star extravagances, while the kids remain fairly well adjusted to their new stardom.

Curtis' mom (Christina Applegate) and Fish are destined to find love, though that feels like an afterthought in the screenplay (by the husband-and-wife team of Maya Forbes and former Simpsons writer Wally Wolodarsky). Also afterthought-y: the obligatory puppy love between Amelia and Curtis. Matt, being overweight, is only permitted by movie rules to have a perfunctory romance with an adoring (and nameless) A.D.D. fan.

Wilson plays Fish with a mixture of Dwight Schrute's no-nonsense prissiness and Ron Burgundy's bravado. In fact, Wilson seems to have taken several classes at Comedy University from Professor Will Ferrell, particularly Drunken Loutish Overconfidence 101 and Gratuitous Tighty-Whitey Shots 400 (a graduate-level course). I would be very surprised if the script wasn't waved in front of Ferrell at some point. At the very least, his name must have been invoked in the pitch meeting.

Cattaneo managed to assemble a terrific cast for this congenial but lackluster effort. In addition to those already named, we have Jane Lynch and Jeff Garlin as Matt's parents; Will Arnett, Fred Armisen, and Bradley Cooper as Vesuvius' band members; and Jason Sudeikis as a tooly record-label executive. Sadly, nearly everyone's talents are wasted, or else used only in a couple of scenes.

The exception is Sudeikis, who gets the film's best one-liners. His character is the kind of fake L.A. type who says things like "There's a lotta biz buzz back in Hollyweird about you guys." He flirts with Curtis' mom, he butters up A.D.D., he generally acts like a douchebag -- and he earns a solid laugh on almost every line. His delivery is impeccable, of course, but for some reason his character was written to be funnier than everyone else, too. He basically steals the show.

Am I allowed to like a comedy even though it didn't make me laugh all that often? Technically, failing to inspire much laughter is a serious liability for a comedy. But The Rocker, while certainly not a hit, isn't exactly a miss, either. It's modestly entertaining, occasionally funny, and generally agreeable. I just don't think Wilson should quit his day job yet. Surely being assistant (to the) regional manager is more fulfilling than this.

Taken From : http://www.cinematical.com






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Movie : The X-Files ' I Want to Believe'

Movie Info
Genre Sci-Fi, Mystery
Release Date July 25, 2008
MPAA Rating PG-13
Production Budget $35 millions
Studio 20th Century Fox
Overall Rating: 4.55/5 (11 votes cast)
Cast and Crew
Director
Chris Carter

Producer
Frank Spotnitz, Chris Carter

Screenwriter
Chris Carter, Frank Spotnitz

Starring

* David Duchovny as Fox Mulder
* Gillian Anderson as Dana Scully
* Amanda Peet as Dakota Whitney
* Xzibit as Agent Manheim
* Billy Connolly
* Callum Keith Rennie
* Adam Godley

Movie Story (aceshowbiz.com)

"The X-Files: I Want to Believe" is a stand-alone story in the tradition of some of the show's most acclaimed and beloved episodes, and takes the complicated relationship between Fox Mulder (Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Anderson) in unexpected directions. Mulder continues his unshakable quest for the truth, and Scully, the passionate, ferociously intelligent physician, remains inextricably tied to Mulder's pursuits.

Movie Review
By George 'El Guapo' Roush


A new TV Spot for 'The X-Files: I Want To Believe' starring David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Amanda Peet, Alvin "Xzibit" Joiner, and Billy Connolly, is now online.

Now X-Files fanatics have something new to dream about tonight in anticipation of the film's release!

MARVEL! at the complicated shots depicting, snow, snow and even more snow!

WONDER! at the dark shadowy figure that races past the tent and a crazed madman yells "It's here!" not once, but twice!!! What is here? Is it going to be some sort of creature that science cannot explain and only our agents will be able to solve its mysteries?

THRILL! to the bug eyed look of Gillian Anderson as she looks befuddled and confused. What could be going on that is causing her to widen her eyes so much?? Is it aliens? A Wolfman? Subway's new footlong for $5 promotion?

CHEER! as Fox reassures audiences that he will not be giving up on whatever the hell it is they're going after! And that Twentieth Century Fox assures us this is the movie X-Files fans have been waiting for. Since the last movie!

CRY! when Fox and Scully decide they are no longer meant for each other and embrace the wonders of MySpace and Friendster to communicate to members of the opposite sex! Don't fall for those spam profiles, Fox!

AMAZE! at helicopters, cars, and people running from and towards danger! Factors needed to make a successful X-Files movie!

WEEP! at the worst movie title to hit cinemas this summer!
Taken From : http://www.latinoreview.com









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