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Film & TV on DVD - John Doe News & Reviews

Greetings Film Fiends and welcome to John Doe's Film Blog. 30 years of dedicated celluloid obsession has meant that I have seen a few films. Drawing attention to some of the lesser discussed gems that I love. Cult classics, obscure curios and quality genre pictures. This blogs purpose is to translate some of my passion for these films and with luck, inspire you the reader to go check em out.

Crime - Film & TV on DVD

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In Bruges (2008) - Trailer Included

March 17th 2010 22:41

in bruges, dvd, colin farrell, crime comedy, hitman

In Bruges - Available in Australia on DVD

Director: Martin McDonagh
Starring: Colin Farrell, Brendon Gleason, Ralph Fiennes, Elizabeth Berrington

“Ken, I grew up in Dublin. I love Dublin. If I grew up on a farm, and was retarded, Bruges might impress me but I didn't, so it doesn't.” - Ray

Irish playwright turned Writer/Director Martin McDonagh makes his feature film debut, conjuring up a violent opera of whimsical joy with the five leaf clover crime comedy In Bruges. It’s a hushed tones fairytale told with flourishes of quiet, contemplation. An entertaining character comedy realized through snappy dialogue, nuanced performances and impeccable timing.

in bruges, colin farrell, brendon gleeson, beer, crime comedy, hitman

Nice city, lousy company!

Ken (Brendon Gleeson) the older, seasoned workhorse and Ray (Colin Farrell) the cocky first timer are everyday assassins with everyday foibles. Walking down quaint cobbled streets framed by medieval architecture the likeable hit-man duo are on the lamb in the Belgian haven called Bruges.

Ordered by kingpin Harry Walters (Ralph Fiennes), their unstable overlord they play tourists and take in the beautiful sights of the historically steeped locale. Waiting for the dust to settle on a recent job gone wrong in Cockney town the pair attempt to remain low key.

“After I killed him, I dropped the gun in the Thames, washed the residue off me hands in the bathroom of a Burger King, and walked home to await instructions. Shortly thereafter the instructions came through - "Get the fuck out of London, you dumb fucks. Get to Bruges." I didn't even know where Bruges fucking was.” - Ray as Narrator

in bruges, colin farrell, ralph fiennes, beer, crime comedy, hitman

Bruges, an easy place for diversions.

Ken is happy to bask in the cathedral atmosphere but the quixotic Ray with his childlike hyperactive can’t sit still. Grappling with an unspoken sin, lacking the discipline of his elder Ray is easily distracted by a midget on a film set or the pretty girl lurking in the service tent behind-the-scenes.

“I don't hit women! I would never hit a woman! I'd hit a woman who was trying to hit me with a bottle! That's different. That's self-defence, isn't it? Or a woman who could do Karate. I'd never hit a woman generally Chloe. Don't think that.” - Ray

Despite their differences there is a bond between this odd couple that grows as they question the morality of the job and other existential dilemmas. From across the pond the daunting presence of Harry looms over proceedings, a single phone call threatening to test their loyalty and skill over a matter of scruples.

“Number One, why aren't you in when I fucking told you to be in? Number Two, why doesn't this hotel have phones with fucking voicemail and not have to leave messages with the fucking receptionist? Number Three, you better fucking be in tomorrow night when I fucking call again or there'll be fucking hell to pay. I'm fucking telling you .” - Harry

Seriously, there's no Guiness in this country?

John Doe says:

Set against a storybook backdrop In Bruges is an entertaining escapade that has a naturalistic momentum, authentic characters and builds to a theatrically grandiose finale. Truly funny, with an undercurrent of deeper meaning this rewarding films success begins with its dexterous screenplay but the versatile performances and deliberate staging are what bolster the end result.

Martin McDonagh Directs with a keen eye for setting, pace and fourth wall reality. The city of Bruges becomes a silent counter point to the onscreen action and his actors are given gravity. What could have been a farcical third act is kept within the boundaries of the established mood and the violence is delivered with gut shot power.

The structure of the curvaceous script lets the central characters breath, not rushing to exposition but letting the chemistry of the two leads infect the audience. Building a tension that doesn’t sacrifice silent, introspection the story may follow the basic rules of its genre but with the locations and thickly accented attitude there is a rewarding freshness.

The exuberant energy of Colin Farrell (The War Zone, Ordinary Decent Criminal) is channeled perfectly, he pops as Ray. The immaturity of the part is an advantage not a hindrance for Farrell, his puppy dog eyed expressions adding personality. Finally living up to the charismatic potential displayed in Tigerland he effortlessly gets laughs and evokes emotion with heart.

The chemistry between Farrell and Brendon Gleeson (Harry Potter, 28 Days Later, The General) is exceptional. As the close mouthed Ken, Gleeson counterweights his chum and brings a balance to the relationship. Together they bounce off each other and there is sincere tenderness in certain moments and in others, utter disdain.

Ralph Fiennes (Harry Potter, Strange Days, The Constant Gardener) brings a force of nature villainy that remains grounded as the reactionary Harry. His screen time may be limited but his presence is never far from centre stage. Carrying a hint of Ben Kingsley in Sexy Beast to the more extroverted scenes of brutal blood lust, he pars it back for a working class aroma to domestic life.

in bruges, colin farrell, elizabeth bankson, beer, crime comedy, hitman

What reputation?

Charming as Natalie the romantic potential of the piece, Elizabeth Berrington (Quills, Agatha Christie’s Poirot) delights with slight quirkiness and determination. The surreal edge that rears up throughout the film is embelished by Howard the Duck himself Jordan Prentice (Weirdsville) as a racist, drug addicted midget with rage issues.

Never losing John Doe’s attention, In Bruges stands up to repeat viewings and has become a much quoted pleasure. The air of mystery upon premiere screening may dissipate but what remains is still a captivating cruise, a Euro-flavoured black comedy that studies guilt, friendship and inevitable carnage.

The trailer for In Bruges - without all the best bits.

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Posted By: JohnDoe - Category: Action, Crime, Comedy

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Electra Glide in Blue (1973) - Trailer Included

February 15th 2010 00:01

electra glide in blue, dvd, robert blake, motorcycle cop, cop films, harley davidson

Electra Glide in Blue DVD - Uncertain of Australian release

Director: James William Guerico
Writer: Robert Boris
Starring: Robert Blake, Billy Green Bush, Mitch Ryan, Jeannine Riley, Elisha Cook Jr, Peter Cetera

Robert Blake as Big John Wintergreen in Electra Glide in Blue

“Ten Hut! Good morning, you fascists. You pigs. You bigots. You Pinkos. You Fags! You Bastards. Fuzz. This indoctrination of vocal harassment was compiled by our own Juvenile Division in preparation for the concert this weekend.” – Srgt Riker

The desolate, hostile landscapes of Arizona make a statement in this cult Motor-cop drama.

Electra Glide In Blue is a gritty, restrained 1970’s gem that serves as a celluloid postcard to the past. An understated, politically minded character piece that possesses power and grace.

Set in an era of civil unrest and questioning of authority, the film studies the timeless sacrifices of struggling to do what is right despite opposition.

electra glide in blue, poster, dvd, robert blake, motorcycle cop

The Original Poster for Electra Glide in Blue

“Big John” Wintergreen (Robert Blake) is a short in stature, abundant in charisma by the book lawman. He is a likeable believer with simple philosophies, career minded and there to serve and protect.

“Incompetence is the worst form of corruption.”– Harve Poole

Dissatisfied with his current assignment straddling a Harley Davidson steed on Highway patrol, Big John is eager for a promotion to homicide.

“I hate that motorcycle they make me ride. I'm here to tell you there ain't nothing in the world I hate worse than that elephant under my ass.” – John Wintergreen

First on the scene at a suspected homeless hippie murder Big John gets a chance to earn the badge but soon clashes with counter culture, his fellow officers and his own strong beliefs in justice.

“You listen to me, hatchet artist! You're tampering with evidence and if you put your finger on one more thing in this room, I'm going to bust your ass! That's right... the officer in charge is talking to you and he's saying that you're going to be arrested as an accessory, after the fact, in a murder case!” – John Wintergreen

John Wintergreen shows them what John Wayne would do when you threaten his steed.

John Doe says:

A getting of wisdom tale set in the mold of Easy Rider, Medium Cool and Vanishing Point, Electra Glide in Blue is powerful without having to force its hand. Contemplative with a dust bowl atmosphere this is a film of introspect reflection and a secluded tone observing systemic violence. Paced for naturalism and carefully building character, the mystery plot enables the story to raise important social and ethical questions. The daring action stunts contribute to the motif like a burnt rubber, smoldering gun of consequence.

There is an improvised, guerilla feel and realism to the Direction that forms a relationship with the work as you watch. Known primarily as a Musician/Producer for bands like Chicago and Blood, Sweat and Tears, this was 36 time Grammy nominee James William Guerico’s lone Directorial credit. A tremendous loss in that Charles Laughton-Night of the Hunter way, we see an obviously skilled filmmaker offer a single peek into their potential.

According to imdb.com the Director insisted that there was only one cinematographer that could capture the heat hazed, sand bitten visuals and intimate nuances of the performers. The cinematographer was maestro Conrad L Hall (American Beauty, In Cold Blood, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid) and because of budgetary constraints Guerico reduced his own salary to a buck so it would happen.

It was worth it. The imagery sears like a cactus stained midday sun, bleeding a deeper meaning or heightened sense of location, never overstating its presence the camera observes without disruption of environment.

No surprise considering the musical pedigree that the Chicago contributed soundtrack boosts the desired beats of each scene, filling out the frames and setting the mood for more poignant events.

electra glide in blue, robert blake, chicago, harley davidson

Robert Blake pleads for an answer to "What is it all about?"

Robert Blake (Baretta) may now be more famous for being found innocent of murdering his wife than his acting prowess. Take one look at Electra Glide in Blue and Richard Brook’s chilling In Cold Blood and you see evidence that his thespian talents are why he should be recognized. Larger than life, to match the parts demands Blake makes us sympathize with Big John’s flaws and strengths.

Recognizable character actor Mitch Ryan (Friends of Eddie Coyle, Dark Shadows) mines the persona of a corrupt cop mangling respect with greed and hubris, a type he would further explore in Lethal Weapon.

As Jolene the anguished bartender desperate for an empty destiny Jeannine Riley (The Man from U.N.C.L.E.) makes her few scenes in the film stand out. Her carefully exposed vulnerability causes the viewer the discomfort of raw honesty in performance. Surprisingly when researching on imdb.com it seems Riley was predominantly a television actress, though her short turn here is Awards worthy.

Elisha Cook Jnr, (Pat Garret and Billy the Kid, Rosemary’s Baby) Musician Peter Cetera (Bass Player for Chicago) and all the supporting cast are immersed. It’s hard to tell where the acting stops and the person begins making for convincing viewing.

Another much buzzed about underground staple that John Doe has searched for endlessly, now finally witnessed. Screening a lesser discussed but deserving reel of cinema lore is what JD is all about and Electra Glide in Blue resonates with its lyrical finale and passionate visualization.

Here is the Electra Glide in Blue Opening Title Sequence

No JD post on Electra Glide would be complete without a sample Motorcycle chase.

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Posted By: JohnDoe - Category: Action, Crime, Drama

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Cockfighter (1974) - Trailer Included

February 8th 2010 00:00

The Individual Expression of Foul Torture.

cockfighter, warren oates, monte Hellman, dvd

Cockfighter DVD available in the U.S.

Director: Monte Hellman
Writer: Charles Willeford (Miami Blues)
Starring: Warren Oates, Harry Dean Stanton, Ed Begley Jr, Laurie Bird, Troy Donahue, Steve Railsback

Inhumane and barbaric, pitting animals in a ring to fight to death in the name of sport and entertainment is further testament to humanity’s dark soul.

It is understandable that within the annuls of cinema history this cult film has been largely ignored due to its vile subject matter and misleading original tagline, "He came into town with his cock in hand, and what he did with it was illegal in 49 states."

Don’t let Roger Corman’s Producer credit relegate this as Southern fried exploitation or a Foghorn Leghorn Rocky Balboa, Cockfighter is a bold and challenging work that demands respect.

Low budget pioneer Monte Hellman created a sparse and serious character portrait that succeeds in comprehending the social detachment of an immoral subject whose obsession is the despicable world of cockfighting.

Adapted for the screen from his own novel Writer Charles Willeford’s,(Miami Blues) offers the profound dissection of a warped man. The man in this case is a rogue outcast who struggles with complex, self destructive demons.

Frank Mansfield (Warren Oates) has no voice. He has taken a vow of silence since losing his prize fighting bird because of arrogance and ego. He will not utter a word until he wins the Cockfighter of the Year award and regains his self respect.

Travelling through the deep South, encountering eccentric and repugnant gamblers, wranglers and ex-lovers (Laurie Bird) Frank is forced to acknowledge his own flawed and hurtful nature.

cockfighter, harry dean stanton, warren oates, monte Hellman, dvd

Harry Dean Stanton and Warren Oates upon their cult stage

John Doe says:

Cockfighter is brave and fearless, cuss it, JD will say it, heroic filmmaking that operates on the outer fringes and delivers insight into an enigma. What makes this exceptional cinema is the emotional weight that it manages to pack even with its extreme handicaps. Imagine pitching modern Hollywood, "Yeah. We're going to use the detestable cruelty of rooster rumbling as a backdrop and the main character is all but a mute for 95% of the film....so we a go?"

Warren Oates sacrificing for his craft

As a serious study of loner masochism told with artistic integrity the film is effective and provocative. At times confronting and savage, blood flows and claws tear flesh. Unflinching as it motivates towards tender and thoughtful ambiguities, the insightful moments surrounding the toxic addiction make this unconventionally special and viciously unique.

Monte Hellman (The Shooting) at his best manages to conjure genuine depth with the subtext of his minimalistic creations. Due to his presence Cockfighter as with Two Lane Blacktop is far more relevant to the human experience than their surfaces may suggest.

Vividly shot by Cinematographer Nestor Almendros, (Sophie’s Choice, Days of Heaven) Thuggish blood sport and delicate poetry balance in the frame to reveal with care and compassion the projects deeper meaning and purpose. There is a sense of realism to the camera work that makes the entire casts performances that much more resonant and the frenzied battles in the ring raw and uncomfortable.

warren oates, monte hellman, cockfighter, cult film

Which is the caged warrior?

Expert craftsman Warren Oates (The Wild Bunch, Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia) subtly manipulates with controlled facial gestures that express motivation without the need for dialogue. His introverted performance ensures a wicked core is not simplified but instead an intriguing, dichotomy the audience can comprehend. Onscreen is a fractured disappointment going through profound conflicts and we want to understand them all.

The legendary Harry Dean Stanton (Alien, Repo Man, Paris Texas) plays the nemesis in this early role. As the slimy cockfighting dandy who has a history with Frank, Harry Dean brings that trademark vulnerability to another defeatist presence.

cockfighter, laurie bird, two lane blacktop, monte Hellman, dvd

The gorgeously talented Laurie Bird in Two Lane Blacktop

The died too young Laurie Bird (Two Lane Blacktop, Annie Hall) could well have been the female John Cazale of the 70’s. With only three screen credits, each one a cult masterpiece in their own way she committed suicide at the age of 25 in lover Art Garfunkel’s apartment. In this film she plays a self created tragedy who is gambled and lost by Frank and manages to instill added layers to the seemingly weak part.

The film has been banned in a number of countries including the UK and Australia because of authentic, raw and disturbing footage of real cockfights staged for the film. John Doe himself has steered clear of it for years for just this reason, but JD is a huge of Warren Oates and after several trusted friends said it was an “amazing” film he took up the gauntlet and was rewarded for his sacrifice. Upon reflection Johnny also realized that the mechanized, cold blooded mass slaughter of poultry that occurs so he can eat a roast chicken is equally revolting and upsetting. This made him weep at his own hypocrisy, self reflection be damned!

Trailer for Monte Hellman's Cockfighter