Sunday, May 30, 2021

Saturday, May 29, 2021

40th Anniversary of 'The Love Boat' with Gavin MacLeod & cast 2017

Gavin MacLeod from TV's long running 'The Love Boat' dies at 90

THE LOVE BOAT on  ABC (1977-1986). Gavin MacLeod (Captain Merrill Stubing) said in a recent interview that the TV show was considered "awful" by executives. Gavin still predicted that "The Love Boat" would be a massive hit... He was right... The comedy show ran for 9 TV seasons. Plus - 5 more TV specials.

The were only Three Major Networks in 1977 (CBS-NBC-ABC). "The Love Boat" aired every Saturday night on ABC. It peaked in its' Fourth TV season and grabbed 24.3 million TV viewers overall (Number #5). You don't see TV ratings like this in 2021.   

Gavin MacLeod portrayed Murry Slaughter in "The Mary Tyler Moor Show" (1970-77). It aired on CBS and its' highest TV ratings peaked in the Fifth season. It nabbed 24.0 million TV viewers overall (Number #11).

Gavin began his acting career during the 1950's in the early days of Television. He guest starred in many shows, "General Electric Theater", "The Untouchables", "The Munsters", "Perry Mason", "Death Valley Days", "The Big Valley" and "Hawaii Five-0."

What an outstanding career.... RIP - Gavin MacLeod.

(1964 TV show "The Munsters." Gavin MacLeod is on the right with a full head of hair.).

(Life magazine. Gavin MacLeod on bottom left.).

(ABC promo picture of "The Love Boat." Gavin MacLeod front and center.).

"The Love Boat" introduction from 1977 is below.

Friday, May 28, 2021

Thursday Night Preview 'A Quiet Place 2' grabs $4.8 million at the box office

Real voice-singer 'John Davis' behind 'Milli Vanilli' dies from COVID-19

JOHN DAVIS behind MILLI VANILLI. It was a secret in the music industry when the album "Girl you know it's true" was released in the United States (1989). It had propelled the duo "Milli Vanilli" to super-stardom. The album climbed to number #1 on the Billboard Album Chart. It stayed there for 7 weeks. It had also spawned five Top-5 hits and three number #1 songs.

The secret ended at a 1990 press conference when "Milli Vanilli" revealed that they never sung-a-note on the album. 

The music producer hired a singer named John Davis to sing for the duo. He was told not to reveal who he was and what he had done. That is until the secret was exposed. 

John Davis died recently from COVID-19. He was 66 years old.

Below is Rob Morvan & John Davis singing the number #1 hit "Girl I'm Gonna Miss You."


Below is the music video "Girl I'm Gonna Miss You." Milli Vanilli didn't sing this song - but John Davis did.

Electronic & Paper Vouchers for SAG-AFTRA Background Extras.


SAG-AFTRA says, "Important Information Regarding Electronic Vouchers for Background Actors."

"SAG-AFTRA members should know there are several companies offering electronic voucher applications to producers for use on TV and film sets as substitutes for traditional payroll paper vouchers. The union is in communication with these companies to make sure that these apps meet the requisite security protocols on which our members rely."
 
"SAG-AFTRA has entered into agreements with Castifi Inc., Central Casting, Entertainment Media Specialists, Inc. (EMS), Epic Tech, LLC and Runabetterset, LLC (RABS).  These companies have met minimum security standards and agree to abide by procedures the union has established to maintain the integrity of the electronic voucher process. These approved electronic vouchers will be equivalent to the paper vouchers required under our TV/Theatrical Codified Basic Agreement."

"As an organization, SAG-AFTRA embraces technological innovations in the production and post-production process that allow our members to experience a faster, safer and more efficient start and dismissal experience."

"There are several things you should know if you are offered an electronic voucher on a TV or film project:
  •     You will always be told at the time of hire that an electronic voucher will be used on the set.
  •     You have the right to refuse the electronic application and request a paper voucher instead."
"If someone on set is insisting that you must use the electronic voucher application, notify the on-set field representative or call your local SAG-AFTRA office." 

For more information, please contact the national Background Actors Department at (323) 549-6811.

Thursday, May 27, 2021

Trailer 'Endangered Species' limited release Friday May 28, 2021

Saturday night '48 Hours' has 2 Back-to-Back episodes May 29, 2021

48 HOURS on CBS. The first hour segment is called, "The Final Days of JJ and Tylee" that will air this Saturday at 9/8 p.m.


48 HOURS on CBS. The second hour segment is called, "In the Name of Hate" that will air this Saturday at 10/9 p.m.

Wednesday, May 26, 2021

Powerful murder mystery 'A Cry in the Dark' with Meryl Streep 1988

A CRY IN THE DARK from WARNER BROS. (1988). The Australian film was first titled "Evil Killers." It was changed when released outside of that country. The production budget climbed to $15 million. It was considered a box office flop grabbing $6.9 million world-wide. I saw it in a regular movie theater at Portland, Oregon.

The movie is based on the book "Evil Angels: The Case of Lindy Chamberlain" (1985). Meryl Streep portrays Lindy and Sam Neill plays her husband Michael Chamberlain.

The Chamberlain family go on vacation in the Australian out-back. One night - Lindy leaves her 9-month-old baby in her tent while the family gathers at a campfire. Lindy hears a scream and she runs back to the tent. She sees a "Dingo" Dog carrying something in its' mouth. 

Lindy is the only eye-witness of that Dingo who she thinks killed her baby. She is believed by the police.... Nonetheless - the public believes her to be a cold woman who sacrificed her baby "to the wilderness." The court battle lasted several years and Lindy was finally convicted of murdering her child. Her husband was convicted of accessory.

Three years after Lindy's conviction. A tourist found the jump-suit that the baby was wearing. It was miles away from where she was grabbed. (Please watch the movie for final conclusions).

The question is, "Was that Dingo large enough to carry off the baby?" When Lindy returns to the tent. The dog is seen running off into the darkness with something in its' mouth....

The film stands up after all of these years. It's a mystery and a thriller played out in court. Meryl Streep was nominated for an Oscar as best actress for 1988. Check it out....

(1989 VHS tape cover.)

Click photo below for full movie online.

(Meryl Streep & Sam Neill as the Chamberlains.)

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

A 2-Hour 'Dateline' Friday on May 28, 2021

DATELINE on NBC. The next episode is called, "Secrets in the Smokey Mountains" that will air this Friday at 9/8 p.m. 

Keith Morrison reports on an already aired segment. Check it out if you missed it.

NBC says, "The death of beloved Vietnam War veteran Bob McClancy is believed to be a suicide until a dark conspiracy is uncovered. Keith Morrison reports."

Sunday, May 23, 2021

Horror Trailer 'A Quiet Place II' opens wide May 28, 2021

Trailer 'Cruella' opens wide on May 28, 2021

Top Box Office 'Spiral' remains number #1 with $4.6 million

The Top Box Office movies week-ending May 23, 2021 - Estimated.

  1. Spiral                             --> $4.6 Million 
  2. Wrath of Man                    --> $2.9M
  3. Those Who Wish Me Dead    --> $1.8M
  4. Raya and the Last Dragon    --> $1.7M
  5. Godzilla vs. Kong            --> $1.4M
Angelina Jolie's "Those who wish me dead" climbs up to number #3 in it's second week.

No TV Ratings for Saturday night's '48 Hours'

The 48 HOURS (CBS) episode called, "The Fenn Treasure" that aired on Saturday night (5/22/2021) at 10/9 p.m. 

I have no idea what's going on with the TV website ratings. They did not post last night's numbers.

"The Fenn Treasure." His name is Forrest Fenn who is a multi-millionaire. He dropped a box of gold coins inside the "Rockies" worth a lot of money. He also wrote a poem that people can study for clues on where to find that gold. Over 10,000 individuals have searched for the treasure and five people died. 

No one has found that box of gold coins in 2021. 

Click photo below for 48 HOURS on CBS.

(CBS Logo).

Saturday, May 22, 2021

Excellent Murder Mystery 'The Whistle Blower' from 1986

THE WHISTLE BLOWER from U.K. PRODUCTIONS (1986). This movie didn't reach the United States until 1987. I remember watching this inside an independent movie theater at Portland, Oregon. 

Bob Jones (Nigel Havers) works at a British intelligence agency who follows the Russians. The whole spy world collapsed and was scattered after World War II (1945). Many of these spies were exposed in Britain. 

Bob is tired of watching the Russians and is caught up in an espionage scheme. He wants to blow the whistle on the secrets that he knows. His dad Frank Jones (Michael Caine) warns him to only - do his job. Bob is soon murdered and his death is classified as a suicide. 

Frank investigates his son's murder. He discovers that Bob was used as a pawn by the British to uncover spies in their own government. Frank never knows who actually killed Bob. He was just an analyst.... Other men who tried to uncover the truth were also caught up in "accidental deaths."

The film leaves the question open of whether Frank continued as a whistle blower. Did he finish what his son started?... Frank walks up the street as police cars drive into a British government building....

The spy world is uncovered here by a government who watch the Russians, the Americans and their own people. It is full of intrigue and mystery which leads to murder. 

Click Photos below for THE WHISTLE BLOWER movie link.

(1986 Movie Poster).

(1986 "The Whistle Blower. Michael Caine and Nigel Havers.).

No TV Ratings for last night's 'Dateline'

The DATELINE (NBC) episode called, "Secrets by the Bay" aired Friday night (5/14/2021) at 9/8 p.m. There are no TV ratings for last night's episode. The website I take ratings from didn't put up any numbers.

"Secrets by the Bay." Elizabeth Sullivan went missing back in 2014. Her friends called her smart, kind and exciting. She was also dramatically emotional and quirky. They said she would never leave her kids after she disappeared. 

Her husband and his family didn't know where she had gone to. At first - some said she was in hiding because her in-laws moved into her home. The police then considered her a missing person.  

Click photos below for DATELINE on NBC.

(NBC logo).

(NBC photo. The sparkling Elizabeth Sullivan in happier times.).

Thursday, May 20, 2021

Extended Trailer 'Dateline' Friday May 21, 2021 at 9/8 p.m.

An all new '48 Hours' Saturday May 22, 2021

48 HOURS on CBS. The next episode is called, "The Fenn Treasure" that will air this Saturday at 10/9 p.m.

Sneak peek: The Fenn Treasure

"Millionaire Forrest Fenn hid a gold-filled chest somewhere in the Rockies and wrote a poem with cryptic clues. Tens of thousands searched for it and five people died trying. A story of obsession. CBS This Morning - Tony Dokoupil reports."

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

An all new 2-Hour 'Dateline' Friday May 21, 2021 at 9/8 p.m.

The 'Dateline' podcast 'Return to Poplar River'

DATELINE on NBC. The episode "Return to Poplar River" has a new ending involving a murder from 1979.... NBC released the podcast last April 2021. This is an excellent mystery from Montana. It is still unsolved. 

NBC says, "In this Dateline classic - The small town of Poplar, Montana is shaken when police find the battered body of 17-year-old Kim Nees on the outskirts of town. Keith Morrison reports."

(NBC logo. Dateline classic from 2007.).

Tuesday, May 18, 2021

Animation Trailers 'Batman: The Long Halloween - Part One & Two'

"Batman: The Long Halloween - Part 1" Drops on Digital & Blu-ray June 21, 2021.


"Batman: The Long Halloween - Part 2" The Trailer drops... Release date "To Be Announced."

Trailer 'Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins' coming Summer 2021

2019 'Netflix' remake of French thriller 'Point Blank' is not good

POINT BLANK from MAGNOLIA (2010). The France action-thriller was a box office smash in that country. The production budget climbed to $10 million. It made $9 million at the world-wide box office.

I saw this at an independent movie theater in Los Angeles. I own a Blu-ray copy too. 

There are 3 remakes of "Point Blank." One coming from South Korea called, "The Target" (2014). The second one comes from India called, "Password" (2019). The U.S. remake kept the same French title and it was released on "Netflix" (2019).

"Point Blank" tells the story of a nurse-aid named Samuel. He saves the life of an unknown man who might be a wanted killer. That killer's brother kidnaps Samuel's pregnant wife. He is forced to take the killer out of the hospital and exchange him for the wife. The Paris police show up. Samuel and the killer go on the run.... It's a fast-paced, exciting thriller, with surprising twists and turns.

The Hollywood remake was turned into a Buddy action-thriller. The nurse-aid and the killer argue and throw one-liners at each other. The film also tries to have humor in it.... The French version never goes in that direction. Samuel and the killer are forced to work together. They never become friends. Both are from two different world's and that brings the movie into a lot of tension and excitement. 

In the U.S. version. Anthony Mackie portrays the nurse-aid and is totally unbelievable. He's got muscular shoulders and huge bi-cep arms. He tries to act like a non-violent person and it didn't work.

The French version has the nurse-aid "Samuel " as a normal guy. He's also out-of-shape physically. He is forced into the criminal underworld who picks up a gun for the first time. We see everything through Samuel's eyes as he tries to save his pregnant wife. 

I prefer the original and will soon watch the South Korean remake called, "The Target." We'll see how that movie fares....


Below is the trailer for the Hollywood remake of "Point Blank."

Sunday, May 16, 2021

Top Box Office 'Spiral' with Chris Rock nabs $8.7 million

Top Box Office week-ending May 16, 2021 - Estimated.

  1. Spiral                                    ---> $8.7 Million
  2. Wrath of Man                            ---> $3.7 M
  3. Those Who Wish Me Dead            ---> $2.8 M
  4. Demon Slayer: Mugen Train    ---> $1.8 M
  5. Raya and the Last Dragon            ---> $1.7 M

No TV Ratings for Saturday night's '48 Hours'

The 48 HOURS (CBS) episode called, "A Sister's fight for her Brother" that aired on Saturday night (5/14/2021) at 10/9 p.m. There are no TV ratings at this time.

"A Sister's fight for her Brother." Scott and Janet Pettit were found dead inside of their burned down home. The police discovered that both were shot a total of 7 times. It was murder... Their son Brandon was questioned by police twice and without a lawyer. He told them that he has Asperger’s Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder). It is known as a developmental disorder. Brandon also had an alibi on the day his parents were killed. 

Police detectives arrested Brandon anyway - for murdering his parents....

Click photo below for 48 HOURS on CBS.

(CBS Logo.).

Saturday, May 15, 2021

The 'Dateline' episode 'A Wanted Man' grabs 3.12 TV Ratings Overall

The DATELINE (NBC) episode called, "A Wanted Man" aired Friday night (5/14/2021) at 9/8 p.m. In the overnight TV ratings. It garnered 3.12 million TV viewers overall. It reached 0.4 million TV viewers in the all important 18 to 49 adult demographic. "20/20" (ABC) grabbed 2.35 overall & 0.4 with adults. "Blue Bloods" (CBS) 6.50 overall & 0.5 with adults.

"A Wanted Man." 2004. Michelle and Mark Weinberger were married for three years. They went on vacation to the Greek Isles. They boarded on a fancy yacht one night and both went to sleep. Michelle woke up the next morning and Mark was gone. The captain of that yacht said Mark went somewhere and would return.

Michelle called the police. The captain finally told her that Mark was not coming back. He disappeared and the speculation began that he might be on the "run." 

Click photo below for DATELINE on NBC.

(NBC Logo).

Thursday, May 13, 2021

Vanity Fair 'The Golden Globes' fall-out of 2021

Vanity Fair (Anthony Breznican) writes an insightful article on "The Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA)." The organization runs the "Golden Globe" awards each January. NBC will not broadcast that award show in 2022. The network complaints range from (Diversity Exclusion to Professional Complaints). The HFPA has announced reforms immediately within the next 6 months.

The most glaring complaint is "Diversity" within the HFPA. There are 87 members and none of them are "Black." The HFPA says that the public knew about this within the past three years. It remained un-changed until now.

The publicist's of black performers say that HFPA members won't attend screenings of black films... One member - Margaret Gardiner - had asked a black actor Daniel Kaluuya, how it felt to be directed by Regina King. He was directed by - Shaka King. She seems to be out of touch with black films.  

Former HFPA President Philip Berk sent an email saying that "Black Lives Matter" is a racist hate group. His membership was immediately revoked. He was also the same man who allegedly groped actor - Brandan Fraser (2003). His defense was that he jokingly "pinched" Fraser. 

Scarlett Johansson claims that she received sexist remarks from HFPA members - over a number of years. That's why she is boycotting the "globes."

The complaints go on and on against the un-professionalism of HFPA members. They want "perks" or "favors" and would anyone read their "script?" Publicists even tell their new talent that the HPFA has "80 weirdos" or crazy "aunts and uncles." 

After looking at comments posted by the American public on social media. 90% say that they could "care less" about the "Golden Globes." They feel celebrities pat themselves on the back too much and are always too political. 

Click photos below for VANITY FAIR article.

(Italian movie legend Sophia Loren. 1995 recipient of the "Cecil B. DeMille" golden globe award.).

(Circa early 1950's. Italian award show. From left. Newcomer Sophia Loren, Yvonne De Carlo & Gina Lollobrigida.).

(1995 Golden Globes. Jessica Lange & Tom Hanks are winners.).

An all new '48 Hours' on Saturday May 15, 2021

48 HOURS on CBS. The next episode is called, "A sister's fight for her brother" that will air this Saturday at 10/9 p.m. 

CBS says, "A sister stands by the brother accused of murdering their parents. She insists he’s innocent and there’s more to the story. Correspondent Erin Moriarty reports."

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

Rob Stafford returns with an all new 'Dateline' Friday May 14, 2021

DATELINE on NBC. The next episode is called, "A Wanted Man" that will air this Friday at 9/8 p.m. 

NBC says, "A wealthy surgeon’s whereabouts remain unknown for years after he disappears on vacation in Greece, leaving behind his wife, financial ruin and mounting malpractice suits."

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Veteran actor 'Noman Lloyd' of 'Saboteur' dies at age 106

I watched the Alfred Hitchcock movie "Saboteur" (1942) at least 1,000 times. It starred Robert Cummings and Priscilla Lane. The main villain of the story was played by Norman Lloyd (Frank Fry). It is one of my favorite movies directed by Hitchcock during the 1940's. Norman passed away at age 106.... RIP.

(1942 "Saboteur." Robert Cummings & Norman Lloyd. Next to them is unknown actor.).

(1942 "Saboteur" Robert Cummings & Norman Lloyd.).

(1942. "Saboteur" Norman Llod as Frank Fry.).


"CBS This Morning" interview with Norman Lloyd at age 102.).

Monday, May 10, 2021

Tom Cruise gives back his 'Golden Globe' awards 'Out-Of-Protest'

The Hollywood Foreign Press created the "Golden Globe" Awards back in the 1940's. It has grown into a popular show alongside the Academy Awards (Oscars). The Foreign Press chooses favorite movie & TV performances from more mainstream categories.

The Academy Awards was fiercely criticized a few years back... Its' members only nominated "white" performers in all of the acting categories. There was a campaign started called, "Oscar-So-White." Reforms began within the Academy....

It has been reported that the Hollywood Foreign Press has 87 committee members with no "black" members. There is no report on whether there are members consisting of Asians, Latinos nor Native Americans. Another campaign has started on "diversity" against the Foreign Press.

The fallout has begun with "Netflix" and "Warner Media" bowing out of the "Globes" until reforms are made. NBC announced today (5/10/2021) that the network will not air the "Globes" in 2022. Scarlett Johansson has boycotted the show too. Tom Cruise went as far as returning the three "Globe" awards he won throughout his career. All out of protest. 

The Hollywood Foreign Press has announced reforms - but it will take some time.

Click photos below for news.

(1990 Golden Globes. Michelle Pfeiffer won for "The Fabulous Baker Boys." Tom Cruise won for "Born on the Fourth of July.").

(1960 Golden Globes. Marilyn Monroe won for "Some Like it Hot.").

(1962 Golden Globes. Marilyn Monroe won for International Star. With Rock Hudson.).

(1962 Golden Globes. Charleton Heston & Marilyn Monroe won for International Stars. With Rock Hudson.).

Sunday, May 9, 2021

Coming Attractions 'Those Who Wish Me Dead' opening Friday May 14, 2021

Top Box Office 'Wrath of Man' hits number #1 with $7.3 million

Top Box Office week-ending May 9, 2021 - Estimated.

  1. Wrath of Man                          ---> $7.3 Million
  2. Demon Slayer: Mugen Train    ---> $2.9M
  3. Mortal Kombat                            ---> $2.4M
  4. Godzilla vs. Kong                    ---> $1.9M
  5. Raya and the Last Dragon            ---> $1.9M

The '48 Hours' episode 'The COVID Cover-up: Searching for Gretchen Anthony' Hits 2.72 TV Ratings Overall

The 48 HOURS (CBS) episode called, "The COVID Cover-Up: Searching for Gretchen Anthony" that aired on Saturday night (5/8/2021) at 10/9 p.m. In the overnight TV ratings. It garnered  2.72 million TV viewers overall. It reached 0.3 million TV viewers in the all important 18 to 49 adult demographic. "Saturday Night Live" (NBC) grabbed 2.31 overall & 0.4 with adults. "American Idol" (ABC) nabbed 1.35 overall & 0.2 with adults (9 to 11 p.m.).

"The COVID Cover-Up: Searching for Gretchen Anthony." Jupitor, Florida 2020. David and Gretchen Anthony were a handsome couple. She had sent a text message to family saying that she had contracted COVID-19. The text messages continued, but she never called anyone. More text messages were sent, but they weren't sent from Gretchen.

The police did a welfare safety check. Gretchen went missing.

Click photo below for 48 HOURS on CBS.

(CBS photo.)

1980's Music-Video-Vixen 'Tawny Kitaen' dies at age 59

Tawny Kitaen did a lot of TV work in the last 30 years. She also worked in a few B-films in the 1980's. Her biggest hit was with Tom Hanks in "Bachelor Party" (1984).

In the 1980's - There was no Internet nor Social Media. Music was promoted on cable-TV with VH-1 (video hits one) and MTV (music television). There were only 3 major TV networks ABC-NBC-CBS... NBC played "Friday Night Videos" on late night, but only after prime-time.

Tawny appeared in 3 rock music videos by the group "White Snake." Those videos rotated heavily on MTV that made her a popular and sexy-video-vixen. Those 3 songs were huge pop/rock hits and the album called, "White Snake" sold 8 million records. Tawny's video appearances eclipsed her acting career for which she will forever be remembered.... RIP.

(Photo Circa 1980's. Tawny Kitaen.).


(Whitesnake music video "Is this Love." 1987 number #2 hit on Billboard's pop chart.).


(Whitesnake music video "Here I go again." 1987 number #1 hit on Billboard's pop chart.).


(Whitesnake 6-minute music video "Still of the Night." 1987 number #79 hit on Billboard's pop chart.).

Saturday, May 8, 2021

The 'Dateline' episode 'Window of Opportunity' grabs 2.73 TV Ratings Overall

The DATELINE (NBC) episode called, "Window of Opportunity" aired Friday night (5/7/2021) at 9/8 p.m. In the overnight TV ratings. It garnered 2.73 million TV viewers overall. It reached 0.4 million TV viewers in the all important 18 to 49 adult demographic. "20/20" (ABC) grabbed 2.95 overall & 0.4 with adults. "Magnum PI" (CBS) 4.78 overall & 0.4 with adults.

"Window of Opportunity." Rockford, Michigan. Renee Pagel had just had surgery and was recuperating at home. Her dad went to check on her and found Renee dead inside of the bedroom. A police detective found lacerations on her face and arms. He also discovered that she was stabbed to death with 50 knife wounds. It was a brutal murder with blood spatter on the wall, the lamp, and the floor.

Who wanted to kill a good mother and friend?

Click photos below for DATELINE on NBC.

(NBC logo.).

Friday, May 7, 2021

Podcast 'The Don' will chronicle 1980's-90's of Hollywood producer Don Simpson

1980's Nostalgia. "iHeart" will broadcast a 24-Episode Podcast called, "The Don." The first 11 episodes will drop on May 11, 2021. It follows the rise and fall of Don Simpson who was a top Hollywood producer. 

He died in 1996 from a massive drug overdose. An autopsy found 21 different drugs inside of his body. He was co-producing his last film, "The Rock" (1995) with Jerry Bruckheimer.... Both men were known in Hollywood as partners who dressed exactly the same. 

They produced several top movies of the 1980's that included, "Flashdance" (1983), "Beverly Hills Cop" (1984), "Top Gun" (1986), "Beverly Hills Cop 2" (1987). 

They went into the 1990's with "The Ref" (1994), "Dangerous Minds" (1995), "Crimson Tide" (1995), "Bad Boys" (1995) and "The Rock" (1996).

"The Don" will cover everything about Simpson including lost tapes. If you grew up in the 1980's like I did. You'll find this fascinating.... Check it out.


(1984 Movie Logo).

(1986 movie poster.).

(1995 movie poster.).

(1995 movie poster.)

Thursday, May 6, 2021

Filmmakers of 'John Wick' to remake South Korean thriller 'The Man From Nowhere' 2010

August 5, 2020.  NEW LINE CINEMA announced that the filmmakers of "John Wick" (Keanu Reeves) will remake the popular Korean thriller, "The Man From Nowhere" (2010). It grossed a massive $42 million in South Korea. Making it the highest grossing film of that year. It grabbed $500,000 in the U.S. and Canada.

Bollywood from India made their remake called, "Rocky Handsome" (2016). It grossed $3.5 million, but was never released internationally. (Check out the trailer below).

"The Man From Nowhere" tells the story about a pawnshop owner who has a secret life. He spends all of his time alone until a young girl becomes his friend. She is kidnapped after her drug-addicted mom disappears. The owner is drawn into the under-belly of Korea. He discovers that orphan kids are used in the drug world. As the story unfolds. The owner uses a special-set of skills who fights to save his little friend. This is a good action-thriller.

"Rocky Handsome" is a decent remake, but the film turns the pawnshop owner into a muscular-ripped hero. He goes back into training. The original movie has the owner in average shape who only recalls his training. His scars and wounds  are painful from his past and - in the present time.  

(2010 movie poster).

(2010 movie scene.)


Below is the trailer of "Rocky Handsome" that is the 2016 remake. No English subtitles).

Friday movie opening 'Wrath of Man' May 7, 2021

An all new '48 Hours' on Saturday May 8, 2021

48 HOURS on CBS.

Sneak peek: The COVID Cover-Up: Searching for Gretchen Anthony

Airing this Saturday at 10/9 p.m.

"A mother disappears. Texts reveal she has coronavirus — was someone using COVID to cover up a killing? Correspondent Peter Van Sant reports."

Wednesday, May 5, 2021

Saturday 'Dateline' 2-back-to-back episodes May 8, 2021

DATELINE on NBC. The first hour segment is called, "While he was sleeping" that will air this Saturday at 8/7 p.m. Josh Mankiewicz reports.


DATELINE on NBC. The second hour segment is called, "The Deed" that will air this Saturday at 9/8 p.m. Dennis Murphy reports.

An all new 'Dateline' Friday on May 7, 2021 at 9/8 p.m.

Tuesday, May 4, 2021

Fascinating mystery film 'The Thin Blue Line' from 1988

THE THIN BLUE LINE from IFC FILMS (1988).  A non-fiction film directed by Errol Morris. The Academy Award "documentary" branch didn't nominate this because it was considered, "non-fiction." It was a box office hit that reached $1.2 million in the United States. Newspaper ads promoted it as a current documentary. 

Purist's of this genre condemned it because the director had used re-enactments which is a traditional "no-no." However - there are no rules saying that any filmmaker cannot use re-enactments in a documentary.  

Top film critics voted this as their favorite of 1988. Gene Siskel of "At the Movies with Siskel & Ebert" had positioned the film at number #7 with his 1988 top 10 list. The Library of Congress selected it as a "cultural" preservation into their National Film Registry (2001).

I watched "The Thin Blue Line" in an independent movie theater at Portland, Oregon (1988). It tells the true story of a Texas police officer who was shot and killed (1976). Randall Adams was convicted and sentenced to death. He wasn't even in the car during a routine police stop on a darkened highway.

The officer killing is shown through re-enactments with different points of view. Those re-enactments have a film "Noir" feel and look to them which are fascinating. What unfolds in this murder case are lies told by witnesses, police, the district attorney, and the actual killer. It plays like a murder mystery with no complete confession by that killer. 

The film gained national attention and the judicial system decided that Randall Adams was innocent. He was released from prison after 12 years (1989). The supposed killer was convicted of another murder and put to death by lethal injection (2004). Five witnesses committed perjury and there is no news on whether they were punished for it. The prosecuting attorney was not interviewed for this film.

Randall Adams died from brain cancer (2010).

Click poster below to watch the film on "Amazon Prime."

(Movie poster from 1988.).

Chris Rock is serious detective in 'Spiral' that opens on May 14, 2021

Oh Happy Day! Cinemark 24 Movie Theaters re-open at Albuquerque 2021

CINEMARK - 24 Theaters - Albuquerque - Now Open..!!!

Cinemark asks that paying customers pay-for-tickets online first. Please wear masks and movie seats will be tapered-off by 6 feet. 

Advance tickets are on sale for the new Jason Statham action film. It opens wide on May 7, 2021. 

Click photos below for Cinemark Theaters website.

(Cinemark logo.).

("Wrath of Man" movie poster 2021.).

Monday, May 3, 2021

Native indie-film writer, director & actor Tim Ramos dies of COVID-19

It was a shock to learn that Tim Ramos recently died of COVID-19. Friends and family are mourning his passing on Facebook. He died too young, but COVID will take the life of anybody....

I met Tim when I was hired as a production assistant on the documentary, "Native Americans in the 21st Century" (2001-02). The title was changed to "Indian Country Diaries" when it finally premiered in 2006. Tim was a co-producer and we had a lot in common. Both of us were actors in Los Angeles.

We talked about the acting auditions, the acting classes etc., and how we keep trying to break into Hollywood as native performers. He wrote a movie screenplay called, "California Indian." He had asked me to take part in the actor table read of that script. I said "yes" and had a great time. Tim was determined to put "his" Pomo Tribal story into a movie - as a screenwriter, director and actor. I had written my own first screenplay. It was called, "The Lost Native" which was pretty awful.

I wrote for "Indian Country Today" newspaper as an entertainment reporter (2002-2004). I interviewed Tim who said that his indie-film was getting closer to production. I also interviewed him for my documentary, "Natives in Hollywood: How far have we come?"

There were no lead roles for natives in Hollywood (2000-2010). Some of us actors turned to screenwriting to tell our own stories. As "vain" as we are.... We have to play the lead roles in those stories. After I left Los Angeles (2012). Tim finished his production.

"California Indian" is not a great film. It's full of modern Indian stereotypes and clichés. A boom-mic even drops into a scene which broke the reality of the story. But.... The first 10 minutes had great visuals introducing the lead character of Nick Thomas (Tim). 

It is too bad that Tim never got funding for a second try at his next production. I wrote a review of "California Indian" for Examiner News. I complimented him on giving it his - best shot. That's all you can ask for.... RIP.

(Tim Ramos. Pomo Indian. Scene 4 Magazine photo 2006.).

("Hollywood NDNz" Podcast. 2016-2021. Tim Ramos, Rany Fields, Jim Ruel.).

("California Indian." Rent this at DVD.com. Click poster.).

Action Trailer 'Wrath of Man' opens Friday May 7, 2021

1996 'Mission Impossible' 25th anniversary returns to theaters May 16, 2021

Sunday, May 2, 2021

Top Box Office 'Demon Slayer' hits number #1 with $6.4 million

Top of the Box Office Week-ending May 2, 2021 - Estimated

  1. Demon Slayer: Mugen Train    --> $6.4M
  2. Mortal Kombat                     --> $6.2M
  3. Godzilla vs. Kong             --> $2.7M
  4. Separation                     --> $1.8M
  5. Raya and the Last Dragon     --> $1.3M
Click move poster below for trailer.

(2021 Movie Poster.)

The '48 Hours' episode 'Scott Peterson: Case in Question' hits 2.63 TV Ratings Overall

The 48 HOURS (CBS) episode called, "Scott Peterson: Case in Question" that aired on Saturday night (5/1/2021) at 10/9 p.m. In the overnight TV ratings. It garnered  2.63 million TV viewers overall. It reached 0.3 million TV viewers in the all important 18 to 49 adult demographic. "Saturday Night Live" (NBC) grabbed 1.88 overall & 0.3 with adults. "American Idol" (ABC) nabbed 1.59 overall & 0.2 with adults (9 to 11 p.m.).

"Scott Peterson: Case in Question." Scott was convicted of murdering his wife Laci and her unborn child (2004). His death sentence was over turned (2020). His sister-in-law Janey believes that Scott is innocent. She leads a fight for a re-trial and says she has evidence to exonerate him.    

Click photo below for 48 HOURS on CBS.

(CBS news. Scott and Laci Peterson before her untimely death.).

The 'Dateline' episode 'Family Affair' hits 2.56 TV Ratings Overall

The DATELINE (NBC) episode called, "Family Affair" aired Saturday night (5/1/2021) at 9/8 p.m. In the overnight TV ratings. It garnered 2.56 million TV viewers overall. It reached 0.4 million TV viewers in the all important 18 to 49 adult demographic. "American Idol" (ABC) grabbed 1.59 overall & 0.2 with adults. "NCIS: New Orleans" (CBS) 2.27 overall & 0.2 with adults.

Update: This is a classic episode from a few years back. Kathleen Dorsett asked a judge if she could change her "guilty" plea in 2018. She believed that her lawyer gave her the wrong advice. That judge denied it. Kathleen was sentenced to 58 years in prison. 

Click photos below for DATELINE on NBC.

(NBC Logo.).

(NBC photo. The last time Stephen was seen alive.).

Saturday, May 1, 2021

Olympia Dukakis, Oscar-Winner for 'Moonstruck' & TV veteran dies at 89

Olympia Dukakis was a veteran film, TV and theatre - actress. She is most remembered for the comedy film, "Moonstruck" (1987) which nabbed her an Oscar as best-supporting actress. She's also known for "The Cemetery Club" (1993), "Working Girl" (1988) and "Steel Magnolias" (1989).

Go here to "Variety" for Olympia Dukakis news.

Below is the 1988 Academy Awards. Olympia Dukakis won the Oscar.


Below is a funny scene from the film "Moonstruck" (1987).

The 'Dateline' episode 'Killer Role' hits 3.22 TV Ratings Overall

The DATELINE (NBC) episode called, "Killer Role" aired Friday night (4/30/2021) at 9/8 p.m. In the overnight TV ratings. It garnered 3.22 million TV viewers overall. It reached 0.5 million TV viewers in the all important 18 to 49 adult demographic. "NFL Draft" (ABC) grabbed 1.83 overall & 0.4 with adults. "Magnum PI" (CBS) 5.11 overall & 0.4 with adults.

"Killer Role." I had recapped the 6-part podcast on this blog. I suggest that you listen to it. NBC left out a lot of information from the 2-hour TV broadcast. 

The podcast has become a listener-ratings hit. 
 
Click photos below for DATELINE on NBC.

(NBC Logo.).

Click photo below for SIMPLE-CAST podcast.

(Dateline Podcast at Simple-Cast.).