Wednesday, July 31, 2024

2024 Venice Film Festival will premiere 'Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 2' on Sept. 7, 2024

The 81st Venice Film Festival (2024). Kevin Costner's "Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 2" will premiere at the festival on Saturday Sept. 7, 2024. 

"Horizon Chapter-1" will screen during the day on Sept. 7. The Festival hopes to gain interest in the Western series.

This is Costner's passion project and only sees his Western saga on the big movie screen. This despite "Horizon Chapter-1" struggling at the box office. It has grabbed $33,275,036 worldwide. The production budget has climbed to $100 million. It was released with Video-On-Demand and topped "iTunes" & "Fandango at Home" charts in its' first week.

Costner still plans to film "Chapter-3" and "Chapter-4" at Utah in 2024. 

I would love to go to Venice on Sept. 7, 2024.

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Podcast 'Missing in America' episode 'The Vanishing of Melanie James' with Josh Mankiewicz

Missing in America says, "Melanie James, 21, was last seen in the spring of 2014 in Farmington, New Mexico. Melanie’s sister, Melissa, saw her walking down the street with an unidentified man on April 20. Days later, police discovered Melanie’s purse and duffel bag in an alleyway in Farmington, but saw no sign of Melanie."

"Dateline’s Josh Mankiewicz talks to Melanie’s sister, Melissa James, her mother, Lela Mailman, as well as Farmington Police Chief Steve Hebbe and Detective Daven Badoni. Melanie is 5’ and weighed about 115 lbs. when she was last seen. At the time of her disappearance, she had dark black hair and a chip on one of her top front teeth. Melanie would be 32 years old today."

If you have information about Melanie’s case, please call the Farmington Police Department at 505-334-6622.

Tuesday, July 30, 2024

Trailer 'The Day of the Jackal' Streaming on Peacock Nov. 7, 2024

THE DAY OF THE JACKAL from PEACOCK (2024). This will be a series starring Eddie Redmayne. It's based on the 1971 novel written by Frederick Forsyth about the failed assassination attempt of the President of France. 

Fred Zinneman directed the 1973 classic movie, "The Day of the Jackal" which is also based on the book.

The 1997 remake "The Jackal" starred Bruce Willis. It received bad reviews from critics. Frederick Forsyth and Fred Zinneman sued Universal Pictures over this remake. The advertisements only claimed that this film was inspired by the novel.

This Peacock series has peaked my interest because it may delve into the "detail" of the original novel. I'm a big fan of the book and of course the fantastic 1973 film.


Horror Trailer 'Bagman' in theaters on Sept. 20, 2024

Monday, July 29, 2024

Podcast 'Missing in America' episode 'The Night Shy Shy Disappeared' with Josh Mankiewicz

Missing in America says, "Shy’Kemmia Pate was last seen near her home in Unadilla, Georgia, on September 4, 1998. She was 8 years old.  Several people reported seeing her that evening in the neighborhood."

"Dateline’s Josh Mankiewicz speaks with some of her loved ones, as well as Dooly County Sheriff’s Deputy Randy Lamberth, and Natalie Wilson of the Black and Missing Foundation. Shy’Kemmia would be 34 years old today. When she disappeared, she was wearing a neon green Atlanta Braves jersey with red lettering, Levi’s jeans, and had a leg brace."

Anyone with information about her disappearance is asked to call the Dooly County Sheriff’s Office at 229-645-0920 or the Georgia Bureau of Investigation at 478-987-4545.

Podcast 'Missing in America' episode 'Running Man' with Josh Mankiewicz

Missing in America says, 'Tyler Goodrich left his home in Lincoln, Nebraska on November 3, 2023, and hasn’t been seen since. On the night of his disappearance, Tyler and his husband, Marshall Vogel, were arguing, and Marshall called 911." 

"Home security video shows a figure running from their house minutes after the call. Dateline’s Josh Mankiewicz speaks with Marshall, as well as several of Tyler’s family members and close friends." 

"Tyler is about 6’1” and 185 lbs. He has pale skin, red hair and freckles. At the time of his disappearance he was 35 and had a red beard."

Anyone with information about Tyler’s case is asked to call  the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office at 402-441-6500 or Crime Stoppers at 402-475-3600. 

Review 'The Round Up: Punishment' with Asian star Ma Dong-Seok

THE ROUND UP: PUNISHMENT distributed by ABO Entertainment (2024). This is the 4th action film in the series starring Ma Dong-Seok as police detective Ma Seok-Do. There is no report on the final production budget. It has grossed $83 million at the world-wide box office. 

I am a big fan of this movie series because Ma Donk-Seok is a Korean action star. "Punishment" opened in U.S theaters but not here at Albuquerque. So, I had to purchase it from Amazon Prime Video.

The story surrounds two brothers who want to control illegal Internet Casino Live games. It brings in a billion dollars each year. One ambitious brother kills an Internet expert who tried to get away from the illegal activity. His death is investigated by Ma Seok-Do who is led to these two brothers who like to fight with knives. 

What I enjoy in each film is the comedy surrounding the police department. It is here in "Punishment" but not as much in the other movies. I'm talking about "laugh-out-loud" comedy from characters in the story. Plus, the action is top notch and fun to watch.

There is no report on a 5th film in this series.

Sunday, July 28, 2024

Kamala Harris Raises $200 million in one week as U.S. Presidential race begins 2024

KAMALA HARRIS is the Vice President of the United States. She launched her campaign for President just 7 days ago. She has raised $200 million and over 170,000 volunteers signed up to help run her campaign. The big endorsements are coming in including former President Barak Obama. Harris has not only energized young voters but also women of color.

The Donald Trump campaign and the Republicans are "reeling." He has begun his personal attacks on Harris like he did with Hilary Clinton. His "base" supporters are following suit "online" with hate filled rhetoric aimed at Harris because she's a successful woman. It is the same old Trump and he is falling "flat" at his rallies.

Online.... "Republicans Against Trump" are leaving him in droves. Elders and Veterans had previously voted for him in the past. But not in 2024. The tide is changing against him in the state of Florida too. His big senior citizen support is crumbling. "The Villages" retirement home held a 100 golf cart parade in support of Kamala Harris instead of Trump.

Harris has energized the "room" and she's receiving a tidal wave of support from Americans. Today is 100 days until the November Election (7/29/2024).

Classic Movie Flashback 'Ordinary People' 1980 with Mary Tyler Moore & Donald Sutherland

ORDINARY PEOPLE distributed by PARAMOUNT pictures (1980). It was the directorial debut of Robert Redford. It starred Donald Sutherland, Mary Tyler Moore and Timothy Hutton. The drama is based on the popular novel by Judith Guest.

The production budget was a mere $6.2 million and became a box office hit with $90 million. (Movie Ticket Price $2.89).

The story surrounds a middle class family whose lives are changed after a boat accident that killed the oldest son Buck. The second son Conrad (Timothy Hutton) blames himself for Buck's death and tries to commit suicide. The father Calvin (Donald Sutherland) struggles to keep the family together. The mother Beth (Mary Tyler Moore) blames Conrad for Buck dying whom she had favored. Beth is very "cold" and wants her family to go back to what it once was..., "perfect."

The film received critical praise especially for Mary Tyler Moore. She had been on two popular TV sitcoms as a funny comedian. Robert Redford claimed that Mary was his first choice to play Beth. The studio auditioned over hundreds of actresses. Moore claimed that Beth was a lot like her own parents. Beth is cold, unfeeling and brittle who expects everyone around her to be "perfect" too.

This movie touched a "nerve" with American filmgoers. Their families are exactly like the Jarrett family in "Ordinary People." A lot of people claim that their mom is exactly like Beth.

The film received 6 Oscar nominations which won 4 awards. Best Picture, Best Director (Robert Redford), Best Supporting Actor (Hutton) and Best Adapted Screenplay (Alvin Sargent). Mary Tyler Moore was nominated as Best Actress but lost to Sissy Spacek (Coal Miners Daughter).

"Ordinary People" is now on Blu-Ray with a 4K Restoration (2022). Check it out. You will not be disappointed.


"Ordinary People" 1980. Below is the infamous golf scene in the movie. With Calvin and Beth Jarrett.

Saturday Night's '48 Hours' Back-To-Back Episodes

48 HOURS on CBS. Below is the episode called, "Who killed Kay Wenal?"

Below is the episode called, "Stephen Smith: A Death in Murdaugh County."

CBS.

Top Box Office 'Deadpool & Wolverine' is Number #1 with $205 Million

TOP BOX OFFICE / WEEK-ENDNG / JULY 28, 2024 / ESTIMATED

1. Deadpool & Wolverine      Walt Disney $205,000,000

2. Twisters                              Universal $35,300,000

3. Despicable Me 4              Universal $14,200,000

4. Inside Out 2                      Walt Disney $8,300,000

5. Longlegs                      Neon         $6,765,000

6. A Quiet Place: Day One      Paramount $3,025,000

7. Bad Boys: Ride or Die Sony Pictures     $1,275,000

8. The Fabulous Four         Bleecker Street $1,010,614

9. Fly Me to the Moon         Sony Pictures $750,000

10. MaXXXine                 A24                 $231,820

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Saturday, July 27, 2024

Trailer 'Coup' in theaters on August 2, 2024

Sundance Trailer 'Sebastian' in theaters on August 2, 2024

Trailer 'Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie' in theaters on August 2, 2024

Trailer 'Harold and the Purple Crayon' in theaters on August 2, 2024

Trailer 'Doctor Jekyll' in theaters on August 2, 2024

Trailer 'Army of Shadows' 4K Restoration in theaters on August 2, 2024

Trailer 'The Firing Squad' in theaters on August 2, 2024

Trailer 2 'Trap' in theaters on August 2, 2024

Trailer 'The Duel' in theaters on July 31, 2024

Friday, July 26, 2024

Classic Podcast '48 Hours' episode 'A Look-A-Like Killer' with Erin Moriarty

CBS says, "Did a Florida man hire a look-alike to kill his wife? A GPS leads police right to the hitman’s door. Erin Moriarty reports."

Podcast Preview 'Missing in America' episode 'The Night Shy Shy Disappeared' with Josh Mankiewicz

Missing in America says, "Hey Dateline fans, we’re sharing with you a special preview of the next episode of an all-new season of Dateline: Missing in America. " 

"Josh Mankiewicz tells the story of Shy’Kemmia Pate, an 8-year-old girl who vanished less than a block from her home in Unadilla, Georgia in 1998."

"Listen carefully to the details, descriptions and clues offered by family, friends and investigators. Something you hear might jog a memory that could help authorities crack a case." 

Note: I posted the preview of "Running Man" earlier. I have no idea which episode will run this coming Tuesday. Whichever it is... It'll be a mystery.

2024 Paris Olympics will pre-empt 'Dateline' for 2 weeks

Thursday, July 25, 2024

Final Trailer 'The Penguin' streaming on MAX September 2024

Horror Trailer 'Lore' coming soon to a theater near you

Horror Trailer 'Terrifier 3' in theaters on Oct. 11, 2024

Podcast '20/20' episode 'The Interrogation Tapes: Sins of the Father' Part 5

ABC says, "The 20/20 story of the man whose wife and son died in what were first deemed horrible accidents, but suspicions around Karl Karlsen lead to an hours-long interrogation as detectives seek to unlock his family secrets."

Saturday Night '48 Hours' Summer Double Episodes on July 27, 2024

48 HOURS on CBS. The first hour segment is called, "Who Murdered Kay Wenal" that will air this Saturday at 9/8 p.m.


48 HOURS on CBS. The second hour segment is called, "Stephan Smith: A Death in Murdaugh County" that will air this Saturday at 10/9 p.m.

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Podcast Preview 'Missing in America' episode 'Running Man' with Josh Mankiwicz

Missing in America says, "Tyler Goodrich left his home in Lincoln, Nebraska on November 3, 2023, and hasn’t been seen since. On the night of his disappearance, Tyler and his husband, Marshall Vogel, were arguing, and Marshall called 911. Home security video shows a figure running from their house minutes after the call."

"Dateline’s Josh Mankiewicz speaks with Marshall, as well as several of Tyler’s family members and close friends. Tyler is about 6’1” and 185 lbs. He has pale skin, red hair and freckles. At the time of his disappearance he was 35 and had a red beard."

Anyone with information about Tyler’s case is asked to call  the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office at 402-441-6500 or Crime Stoppers at 402-475-3600.

Top Video-On-Demand 'Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter One' with Kevin Costner

HORIZON: AN AMERICAN SAGA - CHAPTER 1 from NEW LINE (2024). The 3-Hour Western is still inside the top 10 box office as of Tuesday July 23, 2024. It holds at number #8 with a maximum total of $28,714,736 after 26 days in release.

Critics love to bash a film that doesn't live up to expectations. Especially from Writer and Director Kevin Costner. They call "Horizon" a box office bomb because it cost $100 million. They believe the Western will never break even. Blah-Blah-Blah....

"Horizon" was released with Video-On-Demand and has climbed to number #1 on the "iTunes" plus "Fandango at Home" Charts ($19.99).

"Horizon: Chapter 2" was pulled from theaters with an Aug. 16, 2024 release. There is no word on when it will be released. Costner plans 4 Chapters. I can't wait for "Chapter 2" because I enjoyed the first one.

I think I get the "hate" aimed at Kevin Costner. It's over him dropping out of the TV western, "Yellowstone" after 5 seasons. He claims the TV show wasn't in production and he wanted to film his passion project "Horizon." What's wrong with that?!!

I guess fans wanted him to return to "Yellowstone." He says he will not. I've never watched the series and don't plan to. I'll watch "Horizon" though and on the big IMAX screen.... TEAM COSTNER.

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Paris Olympics 2024 to Pre-empt 'Dateline' for next 2 weeks

The Paris Olympics opening ceremony begins July 26, 2024. Our favorite crime show "Dateline" will be pre-empted for two weeks.

Stay tuned for the new episodes right after the Olympics.

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Western Trailer 'The Thicket' with Peter Dinklage in theaters on Sept. 6, 2024

The 'Missing in America' episode 'Missing in Music City' leaves a lot of questions

MISSING IN AMERICA from DATELINE. I listened to the latest episode called, "Missing in Music City" and I have a few questions. This baffles me....

Marcus Rutledge has been missing since 1998 after he disappeared at Nashville, Tennessee. He dropped off his daughter at school and was never seen again. 

Since 1998 - The Rutledge family has received several phone calls over the years. Whoever it was had stayed on the other end of the phone line. They hung up after a few minutes. My question is, "Was that unknown person Marcus?" 

If it was him. He is still alive and never went missing at all. Remember, he was selling marijuana and dropped out of college. He also moved out of the apartment he shared with his best friend. Because that friend was in deep with drugs. He was later murdered at the front door of that apartment. 

Was Marcus afraid for his life because of selling only marijuana? Or did he disappear because his best friend's enemies had targeted him? Is Marcus in hiding? Was he kidnapped or killed? If he's still alive. Why not return and contact his two grown kids and family? Who made those phone calls to his family?

This is bothering me because if that's Marcus making those phone calls and then hanging up. He ran away from his responsibility as a father of two. Plus, he told his parents he was graduating in 1998 but had already dropped out of college. The drugs was an excuse to get away and disappear. It happens....

Podcast '20/20' episode 'The Interrogation Tapes: Stranger Than Fiction' Episode 6

"20/20’s Stranger than Fiction: The Murder of Angie Dodge - tells the story of a false confession, a convicted man’s unlikely ally, and the determined quest for the truth that leads to the interrogation of the real killer."

Monday, July 22, 2024

Podcast 'Missing in America' episode 'Missing in Music City' with Josh Mankiewicz

Missing in America says, "Marcus Rutledge disappeared on June 8, 1998, in Nashville, Tennessee. He was 23 years old and had been attending Tennessee State University.  Nearly a month later, Marcus’s car, a red Plymouth Neon, was found abandoned about 20 miles from his apartment in Nashville."

"Dateline’s Josh Mankiewicz talks to his father, David Rutledge, his sister, Felicia Rutledge, his ex-girlfriend Valencia Bryant, and Metro Nashville Police Department Detective Matthew Filter. Marcus is 6’ and weighed 190 lbs. when he disappeared." 

Anyone with information about his case is asked to call the Metro Nashville Police Department Cold Case Unit at 615-862-7329.

Trailer 'Girl You Know It's True' coming soon!

GIRL YOU KNOW IT'S TRUE from VERTICAL entertainment 2024. Well.... It's finally here. Those of us who lived through it have been waiting for the movie. These kids today don't know how big Milli Vanilli was in 1989 and 1990. Even though they never sang a note on their debut album. Of course, the public didn't know what was going on behind closed doors. This duo was "big" and helped sell 7 million records worldwide.

There was no Internet back then to check individuals out with "Google." 

When the scandal broke and the duo admitted that they "lip-synched" on every song - on that record. Both were shunned by the music industry and public. They were a laughing stock and lost everything in 24 hours. Except for the music producer who created them and made all of the money.

Classic Movie Flashback 'Blowout' 1981 with John Travolta

BLOWOUT from FILMWAYS pictures (1981). It was written and directed by Brian De Palma and starred John Travolta. The production budget climbed to $18 million and only grossed $13 million at the US box office. Movie critics praised the film but it never caught on with audiences for that year.

The story surrounds a man who works with sound effects for B-movies in Philadelphia. One night while recording sounds near a bridge and river. He records a car driving off this bridge and a Presidential candidate is killed. A hooker who was with him was saved from drowning in that accident. The man who records sound investigates on his own with tragic consequences.

"Blowout" is now on Blu-Ray and it's fantastic! I love a good mystery and the person(s) who murdered this Presidential candidate may never be caught. This movie is now a cult classic and I cannot say enough about how good it really is. 

I actually went to an independent movie theater for a revival of "Blowout" in 1986. I paid $1 dollar and absolutely loved it.


John Travolta. Filmways Pictures 1981.

Sunday, July 21, 2024

President Joe Biden drops out of 2024 Presidential Race

In my opinion - President Joe Biden was pressured hard to bow out of this race because of "panic" from Democrats. This after Biden's poor first debate with Trump a few weeks ago. Biden was tired and everyone attacked his age including Democrat politicians. They're all running scared because of Trump and his dictatorship "dreams" if he wins this Presidential race.

Biden endorses his Vice President Kamala Harris.... She claims she will earn the Democrat nomination. It's late in the race and is she the only alternative to face off with Trump? This is a huge gamble by Democrats and if Trump wins the White House again. It will be "chaos" because he wants revenge against personal and political rivals. He also wants to be a Dictator at any cost.

President Joe Biden had my "Vote" too. He will be missed.

The White House.

Summer Saturday Night Double Episodes of '48 Hours'

48 HOURS on CBS. The first Hours' segment was called, "The Plot to kill Dr. Sievers" and was originally titled, "The Road Trip."

CBS.

48 HOURS on CBS. The second hour episode was called, "The Devil's Twin."

CBS.

Top Box Office 'Twisters' Hits Number #1 with $80 Million

TOP BOX OFFICE / WEEK-ENDING / JULY 21, 2024 / ESTIMATED

1. Twisters                                         Universal         $80,500,000

2. Despicable Me 4                         Universal         $23,800,000

3. Inside Out 2                                 Walt Disney $12,800,000

4. Longlegs                                 Neon                 $11,700,000

5. A Quiet Place: Day One                 Paramount         $6,100,000

6. Fly Me to the Moon                         Sony Pictures $3,335,000

7. Bad Boys: Ride or Die                 Sony Pictures $2,675,000

8. MaXXXine                                 A24                 $819,242

9. The Bikeriders                         Focus         $700,000

10. Horizon: An American Saga Chapter 1 Warner Bros. $685,000

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Saturday, July 20, 2024

Podcast '20/20' episode 'Lock The Door Behind You'

20/20 (ABC) says, "Never-before-broadcast video gives insight into the mind of serial killer Henry Louis Wallace, who confessed to 11 murders from 1990-1994, and his only surviving victim speaks in his first interview."

Friday Night's 'Dateline' episode 'The Trouble at Dill Creek Farm'

DATELINE on NBC. Last night's episode was called, "The Trouble at Dill Creek Farm" (7/19/2024). With Andrea Canning.

You have to Sign-up to Sign-in to watch the latest episode.

Click the logo below for DATELINE.

NBC.

Trailer 'The Last Breath' in theaters on July 26, 2024

Trailer 'Deadpool & Wolverine' in theaters on July 26, 2024

Trailer Paris Olympics 2024 'Opening Ceremony' on July 26, 2024

Trailer 'Dead Sea' in theaters on July 26, 2024

Sundance Trailer 'DiDi' in theaters on July 26, 2024

Trailer 'The Beast Within' in theaters on July 26, 2024

Trailer 'Swan Song' in theaters on July 26, 2024

Thursday, July 18, 2024

Trailer 'The Critic' coming soon to a theater near you

Awesome Trailer 'Conclave' in theaters November 2024

Final Trailer 'Alien: Romulus' in IMAX theaters on Aug. 16, 2024

Podcast Preview 'Missing in America' episode 'Missing in Music City' with Josh Mankiewicz

MISSING IN AMERICA from DATELINE. The 3rd season has begun and new segments will premiere each Tuesday at your favorite podcast website.

"Hey Dateline fans - we’re sharing with you a special preview of the next episode."

"Josh Mankiewicz tells the story of Marcus Rutledge, a father who took his daughter to daycare in Nashville, Tennesse in 1998 and hasn’t been heard from or seen since dropping her off."

"Listen carefully to the details, descriptions and clues offered by family, friends and investigators. Something you hear might jog a memory that could help authorities crack a case."

Saturday night '48 Hours' back-to-back episodes on July 20, 2024

48 HOURS on CBS. The first hour segment is called, "The Devil's Twin" that will air this Saturday at 9/8 p.m.


48 HOURS on CBS. The second hour segment is called, "The Plot to kill Dr. Sievers" that will air this Saturday at 10/9 p.m.

Wednesday, July 17, 2024

Podcast 'Dateline' episode 'Open Desert' with Josh Mankiewicz

NBC says, "When Britney Ujlaky disappears, a small Nevada town bands together to track down a potential unknown suspect. Soon, their focus turns to someone closer to the teen. Josh Mankiewicz reports."

Tuesday, July 16, 2024

HD Digital release 'Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter One' with Kevin Costner

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Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter One says, "Explore the lure of the Old West and how it was won—and lost—through the blood, sweat and tears of many. Spanning 15 years before, during, and following the Civil War, from 1859 to 1874, embark on an emotional journey across a country at war with itself, experienced through the lens of families, friends and foes all attempting to discover what it truly means to be the United States of America."

You can download "Horizon" at these outlets below with HD Digital.

Season 3 'Missing in America' episode 'Mystery Down Highway 1' with Josh Mankiewicz

DATELINE says, "25-year-old Arelie Garcia was last seen leaving her Salinas, California apartment on September 22, 2022. Later that day, Arelie’s bright red Honda Accord was found abandoned in Big Sur on Highway 1."

"Dateline’s Josh Mankiewicz speaks with her sisters Veronica Garcia and Elizet Mendoza, and Detective Arras Wilson of the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office."

"Arelie is 5’5” and about 150 lbs. She has brown hair and brown eyes. When she was last seen, she was wearing a black hoodie, black leggings, and sneakers." 

Anyone with information about her case is asked to call Detective Edwin Cruz with the Salinas Police Department at 831-758-7393 or the anonymous tip line at 831-775-4222.

Saturday night 'Dateline' with Keith Morrison on July 20, 2024 at 10/9 p.m.

Friday Night 'Dateline' with Andrea Canning on July 19, at 9/8 p.m.

Season 2 Trailer 'The Old Man' Streaming on FX/HULU Sept. 12, 2024

Trailer 'The Last Front' in theaters on August 9, 2024

Monday, July 15, 2024

Classic Movie Flashback 'The Witches of Eastwick' 1987 with Jack Nicholson

THE WITCHES OF EASTWICK distributed by WARNER BROS. (1987). Many forget that actor, Jack Nicholson was a big movie star during the 1980's. He was also a two-time Oscar winner by '87. He was imitated by comedians and popular at the box office. Film audiences waited with anticipation for his next performance. He could play drama but comedy was his gift.

The production budget climbed to $20 million. It went on to become the 10th highest grossing movie of '87. It grabbed $63.8 million at the U.S box office. (Movie ticket price was $3.91).

"Witches" is based on a book. It surrounds three women who don't know they are actual witches. That is until they cast a spell asking for a certain kind of man (Jack). He turns up and seduces all three of them. The funniest seduction was aimed at the cellist (Susan Sarandon). What these witches don't know is that he just might be the "Devil."

Filmmakers back then were creating new ways to use special effects. Some of the effects in "Witches" seem dated now in 2024. It was exciting and fun for '87. I was in college at the time and waited for films to play at independent film houses with $1 dollar matinees. That's where I saw this film twice and audiences were howling with laughter.

"Witches" was a best seller on VHS home video. You could rent or buy the movie at your local "Blockbuster Video" store. This was of course long before the Internet. Movies would head to video after their theatrical releases.


Sunday, July 14, 2024

Hardcore fans keep 'Horizon: An American Saga-Chapter One' at the Box office

Kevin Costner's "Horizon: An American Saga-Chapter One" holds steady at the box office for a 3-hour western. It lands at number #7 for the last weekend (7/14/2024) pulling in $2.4 Million. The overall total climbs to $27 million against a $100 million production budget. 

Critics call it a "bomb" but hardcore fans have seen the Western at least 3 times. I wouldn't mind seeing it again because I loved it.

"Horizon" heads to Video-On-Demand July 16, 2024.

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Saturday night's Summer double episode from '48 Hours'

 48 HOURS on CBS. The first hour segment was called, "Murder by Clown" (7/13/2024). Streaming Online.

CBS.

48 HOURS on CBS. The second hour segment was called, "Unmasking the Zombie Hunter" (7/13/2024). Streaming Online.

CBS.

Top Box Office 'Despicable Me 4' remains Number #1 with $4 Million

TOP BOX OFFICE / WEEK-ENDING / July 14, 2024 / ESTIMATED

1. Despicable Me 4                     Universal $44,650,000

2. Longlegs                             Neon         $22,600,000

3. Inside Out 2                             Walt Disney $20,748,000

4. A Quiet Place: Day One             Paramount     $11,800,033

5. Fly Me to the Moon                     Sony Pictures $10,000,000

6. Bad Boys: Ride or Die             Sony Pictures $4,400,000

7. Horizon:An American Saga Ch. 1    Warner $2,440,000

8. MaXXXine                             A24         $2,071,373

9. Sound of Hope:                          Angel            $1,340,415

10. The Lion King                     Walt Disney $1,076,000

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Saturday, July 13, 2024

Shelly Duvall best known for horror film 'The Shining' dies at 75

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Friday's 'Dateline' episode 'The Hands of a Killer'

DATELINE on NBC. Last night's episode was called, "The Hands of a Killer" (7/12/2024). With Dennis Murphy.

You have to Sign-Up and Sign-in to watch the latest segment.

Click the logo below for DATELINE.

NBC.

Trailer 'The Abandon' in theaters on July 19, 2024

Indie Trailer 'Valleyheart' in theaters on July 19, 2024

Trailer 'Crumb Catcher' in theaters on July 19, 2024

Horror Trailer 'Oddity' in theaters on July 19, 2024

Trailer 'Twisters' in theaters on July 19, 2024

International Trailer 'Customs Frontline' in theaters on July 19, 2024

Trailer 'Scream Therapy' in theaters on July 19, 2024

Trailer 'Widow Clicquot' in theaters on July 19, 2024

Re-Release 'Princess Mononoke' opening wide in theaters July 13, 2024

Friday, July 12, 2024

Season 3 'Missing in America' from 'Dateline' drops July 16, 2024

MISSING IN AMERICA from DATELINE. Season 3 begins on Tuesday July 16, 2024 with 6 more episodes.

NBC says, "Are you the key to solving a mystery? Correspondent Josh Mankiewicz reports on perplexing missing person cases brought to Dateline’s attention by our social media followers. Each episode focuses on one person’s story, as told by those left behind."
 
"Listen carefully to the details, descriptions and clues offered by family, friends and investigators. Something you hear might jog a memory that could help authorities crack a case."

Note: I can't wait because I'm a big fan of, "Missing in America."

Podcast '20/20' episode 'The Interrogation Tapes' Episode 4

20/20 from ABC. The fourth segment in this podcast series is called, "Mystery on the Hudson."

20/20 says, "It follows the investigation into the drowning death of Vincent Viafore and the interrogation of his fiancée to determine if it was a tragic accident, or something more sinister."

KOAT 7 News 'Manslaughter Charge' dropped against Alec Baldwin

Here is what's going on with the latest news on the "Rust" western movie. It was partially filmed at Santa Fe, NM (2021). The Judge has dismissed the manslaughter charge against Alex Baldwin (7/12/2024). Prosecutors with-held evidence to Baldwin's Defense team. 

Earlier in court - The judge ruled that Baldwin's job as producer had nothing with the manslaughter charge.

"Rust" filed for the New Mexico Tax Incentives before production. It has been denied and will cost producers $1.6 million. 

During the 2021 filming. A prop gun went off accidentally and killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. That gun was held by Alec Baldwin. The movie shut down and was later moved to Montana.

The Western finished production and has yet to find a film distributor.


KOAT 7 News for July 12, 2024.

Thursday, July 11, 2024

Summer Repeats '48 Hours' back-to-back episodes on July 13, 2024

48 HOURS on CBS. The first hour segment is called, "Murder by Clown" that will air this Saturday at 9/8 p.m. 


48 HOURS on CBS. The second hour segment is called, "Unmasking the Zombie Hunter" that will air this Saturday at 10/9 p.m.

Wednesday, July 10, 2024

Theatrical Delay of 'Horizon: An American Saga/Chapter Two' from Kevin Costner

Kevin Costner's "Horizon: An American Saga-Chapter 2" has been delayed and won't be released Aug. 16, 2024. Distributor has not announced how long the delay will be.

Critics are speculating on why because Costner put up $100 million of his own money for all four chapters of "Horizon." Chapter One and Two have already been filmed. The release of Chapter One has grabbed $23 million at the box office. 

Fans are praising the 3-hour Western and that includes me. Critics are calling the first Chapter a "bomb" in theaters. They also speculate that film-goers aren't ready to see another Chapter so fast. Not me. I can't wait to see Chapter Two.!!

"Chapter One" will be released with Video-On-Demand July 16, 2024. 

New Line Cinema 2024.

Wagon Train West.

Wagon Train from Kansas.

Indian Killer and Scouts.

An All New 'Dateline' Friday with Dennis Murphy on July 12, 2024

DATELINE on NBC. The brand new episode is called, "The Hands of a Killer" that will air this Friday at 9/8 p.m. 

NBC says, "When a former Arkansas state senator is found fatally stabbed, investigators must determine if her murder is connected to her political career or her personal life. Dennis Murphy reports."

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Video-On-Demand July 16, 2024 release of Western 'Horizon: An American Saga / Chapter One'

HORIZON: AN AMERICAN SAGA / CHAPTER ONE from Kevin Costner. The critics didn't like the 3-hour Western and it is all over the Internet. But.... Film-goers enjoyed it and are looking forward to "Chapter Two" coming to theaters in August 2024. 

I for one - loved it and plan to watch "Chapter Two" on August 16th. It is being reported that Costner plans to direct Chapter 3 and 4 this Fall at Utah. 

Costner put his own money into the production and it has climbed to $100 million. According to "The Numbers" which tracks box office numbers. "Chapter One" has grabbed $23 million as of July 9, 2024.

"Chapter One" will be released with Video-On-Demand on July 16, 2024. 

If you love Westerns like I do.... "Chapter Two" previews looked fantastic.

Hong Kong Trailer 'Walled In' coming to theaters on August 9, 2024

Trailer 'Duchess' coming soon

Trailer 'Gladiator II' coming in November 2024

Monday, July 8, 2024

NBC 'America's Got Talent' 2024

AMERICA'S GOT TALENT (AGT) on NBC and its' online Internet partner PEACOCK (2024). I hadn't watched the talent show in a few years. I used to vote for my favorite performers during the competition.

AGT is a TV ratings bonanza every Summer. The auditions are still rolling along in July. Performers come from around the world to try out.

A Japanese comic duo called, "The TT Brothers" were voted onto the next round of competition. This duo is huge in the country of Japan and their audition with AGT is hilarious. They have to survive the Judges Cuts though and many don't move on even after successful auditions. Their talent has to evolve into a $1 million dollar "Las Vegas" act. We will see about "The TT Brothers...."

Below is the AGT audition from The TT Brothers.


A few years back. I thought a horror performer would go far in the AGT competition. His name was Nicholas Wallace who used a haunted "Chair" in his Magician act. His audition was fantastic and is still talked about in 2024. He never survived his second performance and was cut by the judges.

Below is the AGT audition by Nicholas Wallace.

Sunday, July 7, 2024

Classic Movie Flashback 'Weekend at Bernie's' 1989 with Andrew McCarthy

WEEKEND AT BERNIE'S from 20TH CENTURY FOX (1989). It stars Jonathon Silverman, Andrew McCarthy and Terry Kiser. The production climbed to $15 million and it hit $30 million at the box office. It's considered a Black Comedy.

The story surrounds two young men at a New York insurance company. They discover someone inside the company has embezzled a huge amount of money. Both of them tell their boss Bernie who is the actual embezzler. He decides to put a contract "hit" on his two workers. He invites them to his expensive home and then turns up dead himself. The co-workers show up to find Bernie and to keep the police at bay. They carry around his dead body and act like he's alive.

Terry Kiser portrayed Bernie in the film who spent the whole time as a dead corpse. He only used a stunt man when he got sick from the medication he took after an on-set accident. He also cracked three ribs during production. 

"Weekend at Bernie's" went on to become a best selling "rental" on VHS Home Video (Long before the Internet). It has been reported that the film made millions more. A lawsuit was filed by the film's director and screenwriter. They claimed that they never got profits after the success of the movie.

There was a sequel "Weekend at Bernie's II" (1993). Silverman, McCarthy and Kiser reprised their roles, but it wasn't a success. The production budget reached $17 million and didn't break even by making only $12 million at the box office.   

I finally watched it on Blu-Ray after all of these years. Because it is a black comedy. There are some very funny moments. It has become a cult classic especially with stand up comedians.


via GIPHY

Summer Repeats with '48 Hours'

48 HOURS on CBS. It is the "Dog Days of Summer" and there are only repeat segments with our favorite crime show. Last night's double episodes were called, "Blood on the Sand" and "Murder on the Cape."

It is okay because I need a break from crime.

CBS.

CBS.