The Ultimate Chick Flick
August 25th, 2010 at 3:16:49 AM
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this came to me in an email:
"The Wizard of Oz" has been described as The Ultimate Chick Flick; it's the story of two women fighting to the death over a pair of shoes.
"The Wizard of Oz" has been described as The Ultimate Chick Flick; it's the story of two women fighting to the death over a pair of shoes.
the next time Dame Fortune toys with your heart, your soul and your wallet, raise your glass and praise her thus: Thanks for nothing, you cold-hearted, evil, damnable, nefarious, low-life, malicious monster from Hell! She is, after all, stone deaf. ... Arnold Snyder
August 25th, 2010 at 6:45:20 AM
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never thought of it in that way before....but yes, i see it now
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August 25th, 2010 at 7:09:27 AM
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It's not a chick flick if there's no love triangle, boyfriend or husband.
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August 25th, 2010 at 12:05:17 PM
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I thought the novel was about 19th century monetary policy...gold standard vs free silver (the original material of the 'Ruby' slippers) and all of that hullabaloo.
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August 25th, 2010 at 2:55:47 PM
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This got me to wondering, what is the biggest "chick flick." To answer that question, I looked at the top 50 movies sorted by men and women. I think the award should go to Gone with Wind, which women rated as #13, and it didn't even make the mens' top 50. Personally, I didn't like it that much either. There were a few good moments, but overall just too long and overdramatic. Great last line though.
What makes for a good question, assuming the movie were real life, would Scarlett and Rhett have ever gotten back together? Ask a woman and you usually get a "yes." Ask a man and you'll get a "hell no!"
To reverse the question, what is the biggest guy movie? Using the same methodology, I'd have to go with Inception. However, that I think rating will go down. The movie was not that good. I regret wasting my money on it. It is probably inflated right now because mostly people who paid good money to see it voted. Instead, I'd have to go with Pulp Fiction, which men rated #5, and it didn't make the womens' top 50.
What makes for a good question, assuming the movie were real life, would Scarlett and Rhett have ever gotten back together? Ask a woman and you usually get a "yes." Ask a man and you'll get a "hell no!"
To reverse the question, what is the biggest guy movie? Using the same methodology, I'd have to go with Inception. However, that I think rating will go down. The movie was not that good. I regret wasting my money on it. It is probably inflated right now because mostly people who paid good money to see it voted. Instead, I'd have to go with Pulp Fiction, which men rated #5, and it didn't make the womens' top 50.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
August 25th, 2010 at 4:06:57 PM
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Quote: WizardInstead, I'd have to go with Pulp Fiction, which men rated #5, and it didn't make the womens' top 50.
That's probably the worst movie I ever saw (and I didn't see all of it).
I think the ultimate chick flick is "Titanic." There's a love triangle, the prospect of a loveless marriage and the guy the heroine loves and will love forever, who conveniently dies near the end saving her life. And a theme song by Celine Dion, to boot. Following closely I'd nominate "Ghost"
For Guy film I'd nominate either "Air Force One" or "Die Hard." Perhaps even the original "Rocky."
BTW I've never seen any of the films I just mentioned.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
August 25th, 2010 at 6:48:55 PM
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Chick flick: The March of the Penguins. The guys have to sit on the egg for MONTHS.
Guy Flick: The Incredibles. Every guy wants a cute, flexible wife.
Guy Flick: The Incredibles. Every guy wants a cute, flexible wife.
The fact that a believer is happier than a skeptic is no more to the point than the fact that a drunken man is happier than a sober one. The happiness of credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality.---George Bernard Shaw
August 25th, 2010 at 8:01:05 PM
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My daughter's favorite flick: Titanic. It premiered on her birth date (exactly). JUST SINK THE DAMNED SHIP ALREADY. My wife's favorite flick - Somewhere in Time... BORING.
My favorite flick: Hunt for Red October, where Sean Connery pretends he's Russian. And I also loved Pulp Fiction.
My favorite flick: Hunt for Red October, where Sean Connery pretends he's Russian. And I also loved Pulp Fiction.
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August 25th, 2010 at 8:06:42 PM
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Quote: boymimboMy daughter's favorite flick: Titanic. It premiered on her birth date (exactly). JUST SINK THE DAMNED SHIP ALREADY. My wife's favorite flick - Somewhere in Time... BORING.
My favorite flick: Hunt for Red October, where Sean Connery pretends he's Russian. And I also loved Pulp Fiction.
Actually, he's pretending to be a Lithuanian--a distinction that's significant to the plot (and, I imagine, to Lithuanians).
I think the reason Titanic was so successful is that it had the weepy love story, but a lot of stuff still got blowed up reeeel good, so the guys got a payoff for sitting through the first two hours.
The fact that a believer is happier than a skeptic is no more to the point than the fact that a drunken man is happier than a sober one. The happiness of credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality.---George Bernard Shaw
August 26th, 2010 at 6:00:13 AM
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My sentiments exactly, although it DID have one hilarious line: The band is playing as the ship is going down. At the end of a song, one of them says "Nobody is listening to us." Another replies "Nobody listens to us at dinner either..." and they play on. But then they ruined it ten minues later when they finally stopped, saying stupid sentimental crap like "It's been a privilege and honor playing with you tonight..."Quote:JUST SINK THE DAMNED SHIP ALREADY.
Titanic was not only the ultimate chick flick, it was the ultimate chick song too! So much so that Howard Stern had a contest for a band to take that song and "strap on a pair of balls." The new version was damn good!
My favorite movie of all time? Midnight Run. Robert DeNiro is a bounty hunter who is trying to bring in Charles Grodin, a mafia accountant. I must have seen it 50 times, but I still laugh every time!
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August 26th, 2010 at 6:09:09 AM
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Quote: DJTeddyBearMy favorite movie of all time? Midnight Run. Robert DeNiro is a bounty hunter who is trying to bring in Charles Grodin, a mafia accountant. I must have seen it 50 times, but I still laugh every time!
thanks, I have been looking for tips on good DeNiro or Duvall movies.
BTW, the one [?] movie that seems to have them both rates about 7.5 out of 10 with me, "True Confessions"
the next time Dame Fortune toys with your heart, your soul and your wallet, raise your glass and praise her thus: Thanks for nothing, you cold-hearted, evil, damnable, nefarious, low-life, malicious monster from Hell! She is, after all, stone deaf. ... Arnold Snyder
August 26th, 2010 at 4:51:29 PM
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I really enjoyed Duvall in, "The Great Santini" If you enjoy character dramas, he knocks it out of the park. Other's I would recommend, "The Godfather" (w/De Niro), "Open Range" and "Deep Impact". Did you know he was the original Frank Burns in the 1970 film, "M*A*S*H"?
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication - Leonardo da Vinci
August 26th, 2010 at 4:59:30 PM
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I can't argue with the choice of Pulp Fiction as the ultimate guy flick, based on Wizard's methodology of "difference"; highest guy flick to not make the chick list, & vice versa.
My choice for ultimate guy flick is Tombstone. A friendship to the death, clear lines of good and evil, and a libertine female as the prize. You just can't beat that one. In vino veritas.
My choice for ultimate guy flick is Tombstone. A friendship to the death, clear lines of good and evil, and a libertine female as the prize. You just can't beat that one. In vino veritas.
A falling knife has no handle.
August 26th, 2010 at 5:17:03 PM
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Quote: WizardThis got me to wondering, what is the biggest "chick flick."
I would think the recent "Twilight" and "New Moon" teen vampire vs. werewolf movies would have to be way up there. I understand that the only males in the audience were reluctant father's of tweens, yet the movies together are approaching half a BILLION US dollars (and counting).
Quote: WizardTo reverse the question, what is the biggest guy movie?
I think a fair number of women enjoyed Pulp Fiction since many have been John Travolta fans since, "Greaase". The biggest movie that I have yet to meet a single female fan of is, "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly".
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication - Leonardo da Vinci
August 26th, 2010 at 5:25:40 PM
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Pulp Fiction: Loved it! The kind of movie I can, and have, watched over and over. My only complaint, which I wrote about in another thread, is Quentin Tarantino's acting role in the movie.
Titanic: I'm going to lose manly points over this, but I liked it, a lot. Not as much as Pulp Fiction, but if you added up the time I've spent watching it, it would come to about 5 complete showings. The kind of movie that if I catch it while channel surfing, I'll stick with it till the end. Another think I like about it is it features Eric' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Newman]Eric Braeden in a minor role. I've known him from the Young and the Restless for years. Oops, there I go losing more manly points.
Midnight Run: Liked it. Definitely underrated, but it still wouldn't make my top 50 list. I keep hearing people say it their favorite movie.
Rocky: I wouldn't call the original Rocky a guy movie, because it had a very good love story in it, which was just as much of the plot as the Apollo fight. I'm hard to please with love stories, but if I were the crying type, I would have been crying buckets at the ending (dang, even more points lost).
Die Hard: Great movie. I may get some strong disagreements over this, but I thought Die Hard 2 was just as good, maybe a hair better.
Titanic: I'm going to lose manly points over this, but I liked it, a lot. Not as much as Pulp Fiction, but if you added up the time I've spent watching it, it would come to about 5 complete showings. The kind of movie that if I catch it while channel surfing, I'll stick with it till the end. Another think I like about it is it features Eric' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Newman]Eric Braeden in a minor role. I've known him from the Young and the Restless for years. Oops, there I go losing more manly points.
Midnight Run: Liked it. Definitely underrated, but it still wouldn't make my top 50 list. I keep hearing people say it their favorite movie.
Rocky: I wouldn't call the original Rocky a guy movie, because it had a very good love story in it, which was just as much of the plot as the Apollo fight. I'm hard to please with love stories, but if I were the crying type, I would have been crying buckets at the ending (dang, even more points lost).
Die Hard: Great movie. I may get some strong disagreements over this, but I thought Die Hard 2 was just as good, maybe a hair better.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
August 26th, 2010 at 5:45:23 PM
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Don't know that it's as big, but a contender would be "A Clockwork Orange".Quote: AyecarumbaThe biggest movie that I have yet to meet a single female fan of is, "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly".
August 27th, 2010 at 12:27:11 AM
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would Scarlett and Rhett have ever gotten back together? Ask a woman and you usually get a "yes." Ask a man and you'll get a "hell no!">>
Thats the scary thing. Scarlett was one spoiled, selfish bee-ach, and to women, that was OK with them. She scared me to death when I saw that movie for the first time in my early 20's. No way I wanted anything to do with her.
>>I'd have to go with Pulp Fiction, which men rated #5,>>
Women hate that movie. My sister in law said 'Yeah, it was great if you like man on man rape.' I was floored. I said 'thats all you got out of a 2 hour masterpiece, a 90 second rape scene?' They don't get it and you can't make them 'get it', so don't even try..
Thats the scary thing. Scarlett was one spoiled, selfish bee-ach, and to women, that was OK with them. She scared me to death when I saw that movie for the first time in my early 20's. No way I wanted anything to do with her.
>>I'd have to go with Pulp Fiction, which men rated #5,>>
Women hate that movie. My sister in law said 'Yeah, it was great if you like man on man rape.' I was floored. I said 'thats all you got out of a 2 hour masterpiece, a 90 second rape scene?' They don't get it and you can't make them 'get it', so don't even try..
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
August 27th, 2010 at 12:34:26 AM
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Titanic was not only the ultimate chick flick>>
Couldn't watch it, never seen it all the way through. The ship was stuffed to the gills with passengers, yet look at all the scenes with just the two star crossed lovers and nobody else. Gag me with a spoon, sorry Wiz. I rank it right up there with 'Bridges of Madison County'. Don't even get me started..
Here's the truth about movies and once I say it, you'll know its true. All male casts and storylines, or almost all male, have carried a huge number of great movies. All female casts seldom do. The reason is, men are interesting and what they do is interesting. Women generally are boring and movies featuring them are boring. Its still a man's world, like it or not. List your 10 favorite movies of all time and you'll see what I mean. My fave? 'The Godfather', of course. Saw it in the theatre and watch it at least once a year, it never gets boring. The biggest non-chick flick ever made. I think its the only movie in Rotten Tomatoes history to get a 100% critical rating. Godfather 2 got 98%.
Couldn't watch it, never seen it all the way through. The ship was stuffed to the gills with passengers, yet look at all the scenes with just the two star crossed lovers and nobody else. Gag me with a spoon, sorry Wiz. I rank it right up there with 'Bridges of Madison County'. Don't even get me started..
Here's the truth about movies and once I say it, you'll know its true. All male casts and storylines, or almost all male, have carried a huge number of great movies. All female casts seldom do. The reason is, men are interesting and what they do is interesting. Women generally are boring and movies featuring them are boring. Its still a man's world, like it or not. List your 10 favorite movies of all time and you'll see what I mean. My fave? 'The Godfather', of course. Saw it in the theatre and watch it at least once a year, it never gets boring. The biggest non-chick flick ever made. I think its the only movie in Rotten Tomatoes history to get a 100% critical rating. Godfather 2 got 98%.
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
August 27th, 2010 at 1:36:22 AM
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Quote: chookQuote: MoscaI can't argue with the choice of Pulp Fiction as the ultimate guy flick, based on Wizard's methodology of "difference"; highest guy flick to not make the chick list, & vice versa.
My choice for ultimate guy flick is Tombstone. A friendship to the death, clear lines of good and evil, and a libertine female as the prize. You just can't beat that one. In vino veritas.
Speaking of Tombstone, it had some memorable dialogue.
This exchange, prior to the gunfight, always stuck in my mind.
Turkey Creek Jack Johnson: Why you doin' this, Doc?
Doc Holliday: Because Wyatt Earp is my friend.
Turkey Creek Jack Johnson: Friend? Hell, I got lots of friends.
Doc Holliday: ...I don't.
You can't trust a dog to mind your food.
August 27th, 2010 at 3:45:03 AM
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Quote: Wizard
Titanic: I'm going to lose manly points over this, but I liked it, a lot. Not as much as Pulp Fiction, but if you added up the time I've spent watching it, it would come to about 5 complete showings. The kind of movie that if I catch it while channel surfing, I'll stick with it till the end. Another think I like about it is it features Eric' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Newman]Eric Braeden in a minor role. I've known him from the Young and the Restless for years. Oops, there I go losing more manly points.
Not a comment onb movie choices I can't narrow mine down to just one anyways, thought "Midnight Run" is one favorite because of all the plotlines (Serrano, the FBI, the bail bobdsmen, Marvie) fit into one simple plot (Get the guy from NY to LA by midnight friday.) But here is an observation on what Wiz said.
Do you almost get more satisfaction finding a movie channel-surfing? I was talking about this with my brother-in-law once and we both sort of agreed that we could own a movie yet watch it if we found it on because you sort of "discover" it then. Anyone else notice this? As the male population of this borad seems to be >90% I'd be interested to know if this is a guy-thing.
All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others
August 27th, 2010 at 5:09:13 AM
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Is "Alien" a chick flick or guy flick? At the moment the only name I remember from the movie is Sigourney Weaver's without looking it up.
There's no secret. Just know what you're talking about before you open your mouth.
August 27th, 2010 at 6:49:02 AM
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Quote: rxwineIs "Alien" a chick flick or guy flick? At the moment the only name I remember from the movie is Sigourney Weaver's without looking it up.
Alien's a horror movie.
Regarding "Pulp Fiction," can someone explain why they like that piece of, well, whatever it is. Is it the non-stop filthy dialogue? The violence? The lack of a discernible plot?
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August 27th, 2010 at 7:16:18 AM
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Yes ... and no. You bring up those things as negatives, but they are actually what makes the movie great. Tarantino is often thought of as a "post-modern" film director; that is, he grew up in a video store watching VHS movies and copying from all sorts of sources: B movies, kung-fu, gangster films, etc. Pulp Fiction is a pastiche of stuff that has come before; the title itself suggests low-grade, cheap, lurid magazine stories from the 40s and 50s. Tarantino always puts a lot of violence and bad language in his films; what is great about Pulp Fiction is that it works because the characters are unforgettable and the dialogue is great and catchy. (Somebody just quoted a line from it to me on another thread.) The plot is non-linear which is another cool thing about it.Quote: NareedRegarding "Pulp Fiction," can someone explain why they like that piece of, well, whatever it is. Is it the non-stop filthy dialogue? The violence? The lack of a discernible plot?
"Dice, verily, are armed with goads and driving-hooks, deceiving and tormenting, causing grievous woe." -Rig Veda 10.34.4
August 27th, 2010 at 7:35:18 AM
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Quote: teddysYes ... and no. You bring up those things as negatives, but they are actually what makes the movie great.
I brought them up as descriptive. But they are negatives.
Take the language. The value of profanity lies in shock. Using it now and then is like throwing a bucket of cold water into someone's face. Using it all the time, it's like throwing bucket after bucket of water at a fish. That's also the big dialogue flaw in Tom Clancy's novels, BTW. Violence works ins a similar fashion.
Quote:[..]what is great about Pulp Fiction is that it works because the characters are unforgettable and the dialogue is great and catchy.
I suppose there may be a different version from the one I saw, one with catchy dialogue.
The only line I remotely remember is when Uma Thurman asks John Travolta whether he meant it when he said it's reasonable for her boyfirend to have thrown a man out of a window for a minor offense.
Quote:The plot is non-linear which is another cool thing about it.
Non-linear plots can be great. Asimov used one in "The End of Eternity," which greatly complicated the complications inherent in time travel. He tried something similar in "The Gods Themselves," but didn't do quite as well.
But before it is non-linear it has to be a plot. I concede "Pulp Fiction" is non-linear.
I'll tell you what that movie did for me. It made me place a big sign with red letters on it in my mind which says "Watch nothing by Tarantino." I keep it next to the one that says "Don't ever play Keno."
I've mostly kept to that. Unfortunately the man directed a season finale ep of the original CSI. I won't say it was the worst CSI episode I ever saw, but it was pretty bad.
Hmm. Mulling over Nareed's Revised Laws of Hollywood. 1) Watch nothing by Tarantino. 2) During development: whatever happens, nothing happens. Just twenty three more...
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
August 27th, 2010 at 7:43:12 AM
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How can you not love Pulp Fiction?
In my opinion, the plot of the movie is quite ingenious as it starts towards the end of the movie. You've got Travolta, and this is his comeback movie -- he signed on at reportedly about $140,000 to do the film. Samuel L. Jackson is his black partner. You don't know what they are up to at the beginning of the movie and you are completely surprised to see them in the very dark role that they are in.
It is absolutely funny, has got a great soundtrack, and is completely out-of-the-box wild. The scene where Travolta and Jackson shoots the head off their informant and goes to Tarantino's house is absolutely fantastic.
Bruce Willis is a boxer who, while on the run from Marcellus, gets into a completely unbelievable situation, and ends up in a absolutely crazy role way outside of his usual stuff.
The movie is independent meaning that a major studio did not underwrite the film. The budget for the movie was $8 million.
The movie is over the top in its violence, bad language, and theme. Hence the name of the movie. But somehow Tarantino created film-making magic.
In my opinion, the plot of the movie is quite ingenious as it starts towards the end of the movie. You've got Travolta, and this is his comeback movie -- he signed on at reportedly about $140,000 to do the film. Samuel L. Jackson is his black partner. You don't know what they are up to at the beginning of the movie and you are completely surprised to see them in the very dark role that they are in.
It is absolutely funny, has got a great soundtrack, and is completely out-of-the-box wild. The scene where Travolta and Jackson shoots the head off their informant and goes to Tarantino's house is absolutely fantastic.
Bruce Willis is a boxer who, while on the run from Marcellus, gets into a completely unbelievable situation, and ends up in a absolutely crazy role way outside of his usual stuff.
The movie is independent meaning that a major studio did not underwrite the film. The budget for the movie was $8 million.
The movie is over the top in its violence, bad language, and theme. Hence the name of the movie. But somehow Tarantino created film-making magic.
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August 27th, 2010 at 8:19:03 AM
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Quote: boymimboHow can you not love Pulp Fiction?
I've stated my reasons above.
Quote:In my opinion, the plot of the movie is quite ingenious as it starts towards the end of the movie.
What's the plot?
A plot can be described in a sentence or at most a short paragraph. For example, the plot of "The Fugitive" is: a man framed for murder runs from the law while trying to prove his innocence.
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August 27th, 2010 at 8:26:51 AM
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Great movies and TV shows can have several story lines or plots. For Pulp fiction, there are several plots revolving around the few characters, revolving around Marcellus Wallace's evil empire.
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You want the truth! You can't handle the truth!
August 27th, 2010 at 8:46:21 AM
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Quote: boymimboGreat movies and TV shows can have several story lines or plots. For Pulp fiction, there are several plots revolving around the few characters, revolving around Marcellus Wallace's evil empire.
Very well, then. Use up all the board's memory if you want: what's the plot?
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August 27th, 2010 at 9:26:34 AM
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If I were to cull a list of my 10 favorites movies Pulp Fiction would definitely be on it.
Regarding the profanity, it depends on the context of it. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe Raging Bull was rated the best movie of the eighties by both Siskel and Ebert, and it was chock full of the F word. In some situations the movie would seem unrealistic without it. Scarface is another movie where the profanity just doesn't seem like profanity, it is just natural for the character. One thing I respect about Pulp Fiction was the courage to have white characters use the N word. Obviously, I still don't.
Regarding the plot and non-linear narrative, I don't think anybody will argue that the plot is what carries Pulp Fiction. It is the texture and dialogue. It is the kind of movie that I could come close to reciting the dialogue word for word as I'm watching it. Much like real life, what happens is much the result of accidents and coincidences. For example, just about every use of a gun is accidental, or the shooter misses his target, much like real life. The non-linear story line I think was to de-emphasize the plot, and make it a challenge for the audience to see how all the characters and events were related.
Regarding the violence, I'm comfortable with the level in Pulp Fiction. However, Reservoir Dogs was too heavy for me. I have trouble watching that one. If just the ear scene could be removed, then I could take it. What helps me take it with Pulp Fiction is the violence is kind of cartoony, much like both Kill Bill movies. I think the reason that blood would spray out of people in the Kill Bills was that is how it is drawn in comic books. Correct me if I'm wrong, but in real life it squirts out, in synch with the beating heart. I take the unrealistic way it is shown in the QT movies (Reservoir Dogs excepted) as a wink to the audience that is all done in fun.
What I find interesting about Quentin Tarantino movies, much like Stanley Kubrick, is that I usually don't like them much the first viewing. However, they stick in my head, and make me think. Each subsequent viewing I get more out of them. I'm not saying anybody has to like QT movies, but I think they need to be seen at least twice to be appreciated.
Regarding the profanity, it depends on the context of it. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe Raging Bull was rated the best movie of the eighties by both Siskel and Ebert, and it was chock full of the F word. In some situations the movie would seem unrealistic without it. Scarface is another movie where the profanity just doesn't seem like profanity, it is just natural for the character. One thing I respect about Pulp Fiction was the courage to have white characters use the N word. Obviously, I still don't.
Regarding the plot and non-linear narrative, I don't think anybody will argue that the plot is what carries Pulp Fiction. It is the texture and dialogue. It is the kind of movie that I could come close to reciting the dialogue word for word as I'm watching it. Much like real life, what happens is much the result of accidents and coincidences. For example, just about every use of a gun is accidental, or the shooter misses his target, much like real life. The non-linear story line I think was to de-emphasize the plot, and make it a challenge for the audience to see how all the characters and events were related.
Regarding the violence, I'm comfortable with the level in Pulp Fiction. However, Reservoir Dogs was too heavy for me. I have trouble watching that one. If just the ear scene could be removed, then I could take it. What helps me take it with Pulp Fiction is the violence is kind of cartoony, much like both Kill Bill movies. I think the reason that blood would spray out of people in the Kill Bills was that is how it is drawn in comic books. Correct me if I'm wrong, but in real life it squirts out, in synch with the beating heart. I take the unrealistic way it is shown in the QT movies (Reservoir Dogs excepted) as a wink to the audience that is all done in fun.
What I find interesting about Quentin Tarantino movies, much like Stanley Kubrick, is that I usually don't like them much the first viewing. However, they stick in my head, and make me think. Each subsequent viewing I get more out of them. I'm not saying anybody has to like QT movies, but I think they need to be seen at least twice to be appreciated.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
August 27th, 2010 at 9:54:18 AM
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Definitely did not like "Pulp Fiction". I think one problem was that it was highly recommended to me, which sort of miffed me. What, am I some kind of drug addict getting a kick out of seeing someone shoot up heroin? etc etc etc. Just a shabby movie IMO on a multitude of sordid subjects. Would I have felt differently if I came across it randomly? Hard to say.
So, Nareed, you are not alone.
So, Nareed, you are not alone.
the next time Dame Fortune toys with your heart, your soul and your wallet, raise your glass and praise her thus: Thanks for nothing, you cold-hearted, evil, damnable, nefarious, low-life, malicious monster from Hell! She is, after all, stone deaf. ... Arnold Snyder
August 27th, 2010 at 10:10:17 AM
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There are so many classic stand alone scenes in Pulp Fiction that I can't name them all. There is no plot in the classic sense, just a bunch of loosely connected storylines. You never know where any scene is going to end up, its a total surprise. If you take it seriously, you'll never 'get it'. The title gives it away, its pulp fiction, just like the 'pulps' I read when I was a teen. Everything is exagerated and over the top, thats the point. But its the acting that makes it unforgettable. Just one small example. They say the scene where Travolta is driving his car after shooting up with herion is responsible for more people trying the drug for the first time than any movie scene in history. His acting in that scene is so right on, so intense, so believable, he made people actually want to feel that way themselves. Remarkable.
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
August 27th, 2010 at 10:20:49 AM
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Quote: odiousgambitDefinitely did not like "Pulp Fiction". I think one problem was that it was highly recommended to me, which sort of miffed me. What, am I some kind of drug addict getting a kick out of seeing someone shoot up heroin? etc etc etc. Just a shabby movie IMO on a multitude of sordid subjects. Would I have felt differently if I came across it randomly? Hard to say.
So, Nareed, you are not alone.
I saw it at a friends house, and they were raving about it. I was ready to be aloof and hate it, but it blew the top of my head off. I bet I've seen it 15 times since. Its a masterpiece. But lots of people do hate it, thats for sure. Its usually because it offended their delicate sensibilities or something, like the male rape scene or the language. Maybe its an aquired taste. I used to hate Picasso's paintings, I thought they were crap. They I took a course on Picasso, and now I think his work is genius. I 'see' it in an entirely different way and could look at it for hours. Everything in life depends on your point of view, doesn't it.
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
August 27th, 2010 at 10:21:52 AM
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Quote: AZDuffmanDo you almost get more satisfaction finding a movie channel-surfing? I was talking about this with my brother-in-law once and we both sort of agreed that we could own a movie yet watch it if we found it on because you sort of "discover" it then. Anyone else notice this? As the male population of this borad seems to be >90% I'd be interested to know if this is a guy-thing.
I don't think it is just a guy thing. Women are captured all the time while changing channels. Personally, I have a hard time watching a movie edited for TV, since I abhor five minute commercial marathons.
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication - Leonardo da Vinci
August 27th, 2010 at 10:25:21 AM
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Quote: NareedVery well, then. Use up all the board's memory if you want: what's the plot?
While two guys are trying to deliver a briefcase, all Hell breaks loose.
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication - Leonardo da Vinci
August 27th, 2010 at 10:31:45 AM
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THE PLOT version II
everytime somebody is in the bathroom taking a s**t, when they come out they get blown away and that is real funny [not].
everytime somebody is in the bathroom taking a s**t, when they come out they get blown away and that is real funny [not].
the next time Dame Fortune toys with your heart, your soul and your wallet, raise your glass and praise her thus: Thanks for nothing, you cold-hearted, evil, damnable, nefarious, low-life, malicious monster from Hell! She is, after all, stone deaf. ... Arnold Snyder
August 27th, 2010 at 10:34:13 AM
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Quote: rxwineIs "Alien" a chick flick or guy flick? At the moment the only name I remember from the movie is Sigourney Weaver's without looking it up.
Alien is both. The violence and gore definitely appeal to the guys, but the suspense, and strong female lead, are definitely winners with the ladies. Interestingly, it was directed by James Cameron, who also did Titanic.
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication - Leonardo da Vinci
August 27th, 2010 at 10:48:14 AM
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Expectations do matter, but a fair movie-goer will judge a movie on its merits regardless of expectations.
I went to to see the first "Back To The Future" movie with very low expectations. I loved it, and to a lesser extent the sequels as well.
I rented "Pulp Fiction" with high but undefined expectations. I couldn't watch all of it. I quit by the end of the Bruce Willis sequence. To paraphrase my favorite critical saying, "I don't need to wade through the entire lenght of the sewer to know it's full of crap."
The constant cursing and fould language is unpleasant. The constant violence gets boring (and that's the worst thing that can happen to violence). And in the meantime nothing remotely interesting is happening, nor is it happening to particularly interesting people.
So, yes, I fail to see that so many people would like this movie, much less rate it highly.
I went to to see the first "Back To The Future" movie with very low expectations. I loved it, and to a lesser extent the sequels as well.
I rented "Pulp Fiction" with high but undefined expectations. I couldn't watch all of it. I quit by the end of the Bruce Willis sequence. To paraphrase my favorite critical saying, "I don't need to wade through the entire lenght of the sewer to know it's full of crap."
The constant cursing and fould language is unpleasant. The constant violence gets boring (and that's the worst thing that can happen to violence). And in the meantime nothing remotely interesting is happening, nor is it happening to particularly interesting people.
So, yes, I fail to see that so many people would like this movie, much less rate it highly.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
August 27th, 2010 at 10:54:12 AM
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Quote: WizardRegarding the plot and non-linear narrative, I don't think anybody will argue that the plot is what carries Pulp Fiction. It is the texture and dialogue. It is the kind of movie that I could come close to reciting the dialogue word for word as I'm watching it. Much like real life, what happens is much the result of accidents and coincidences. For example, just about every use of a gun is accidental, or the shooter misses his target, much like real life. The non-linear story line I think was to de-emphasize the plot, and make it a challenge for the audience to see how all the characters and events were related.
The plot is integral to Pulp Fiction; like you said, part of the viewing experience is putting the pieces together out of sequence. IMO it actually intensifies the plot, making you mind it even more; you carry all the strings alive in your head until they are resolved.
Quote: WizardRegarding the violence, I'm comfortable with the level in Pulp Fiction. However, Reservoir Dogs was too heavy for me. I have trouble watching that one. If just the ear scene could be removed, then I could take it. What helps me take it with Pulp Fiction is the violence is kind of cartoony, much like both Kill Bill movies. I think the reason that blood would spray out of people in the Kill Bills was that is how it is drawn in comic books. Correct me if I'm wrong, but in real life it squirts out, in synch with the beating heart. I take the unrealistic way it is shown in the QT movies (Reservoir Dogs excepted) as a wink to the audience that is all done in fun.
Interestingly enough, there is no actual violence (ie, cutting; there is plenty violence throughout the movie) in the ear scene; the camera cuts away at the critical moment. Just proof once more that what your mind creates can be far more graphic than what your eyes see. That scene is why I can't watch that movie again, even though I love it; I can't take the ear scene, either.
A falling knife has no handle.
August 27th, 2010 at 10:54:56 AM
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Quote: WizardAnother think I like about it is it features Eric' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Newman]Eric Braeden in a minor role. I've known him from the Young and the Restless for years.
Wizard, you are required to take your "Man" card out of your wallet, and shred it immediately. A new one will be issued after you see "The Expendables" three times, and bring your ticket stubs to the sports bar at Hooters during half time of Monday Night Football.
Quote: WizardDie Hard: Great movie. I may get some strong disagreements over this, but I thought Die Hard 2 was just as good, maybe a hair better.
I agree with you, DH2 was just as good. You can't go wrong with a Christmas movie sequel.
I'm surprised "Lethal Weapon" hasn't entered the conversation, but I think the female appeal of Mel Gibson at the time made it a, "not just Guy movie" (same with "Mad Max: The Road Warrior").
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication - Leonardo da Vinci
August 27th, 2010 at 10:57:08 AM
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Another thumbs up for DH2. I even liked DH3, even though it is just silly in spots; not as good as 1 or 2, not re-watchable like the first two.
A falling knife has no handle.
August 27th, 2010 at 11:43:25 AM
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Quote: WizardThis got me to wondering, what is the biggest "chick flick." To answer that question, I looked at the top 50 movies sorted by men and women. I think the award should go to Gone with Wind, which women rated as #13, and it didn't even make the mens' top 50. Personally, I didn't like it that much either. There were a few good moments, but overall just too long and overdramatic. Great last line though.
What makes for a good question, assuming the movie were real life, would Scarlett and Rhett have ever gotten back together? Ask a woman and you usually get a "yes." Ask a man and you'll get a "hell no!"
To reverse the question, what is the biggest guy movie? Using the same methodology, I'd have to go with Inception. However, that I think rating will go down. The movie was not that good. I regret wasting my money on it. It is probably inflated right now because mostly people who paid good money to see it voted. Instead, I'd have to go with Pulp Fiction, which men rated #5, and it didn't make the womens' top 50.
The list is interesting. First of all there are 6 times as many male participants as female which says something about interest in surveys like this.
Females and Males both picked brooding dark dramas like
* American History X (1998)
* Fight Club (1999)
* Se7en (1995)
* The Professional (1994)
if there is a sexy male lead. But males also picked A Clockwork Orange (1971) which does not have a sexy male lead.
Females had 22% animation while males only had 4% animation.
Predictably there is a lot more extreme violence in male choices, although females will choose a violent movie with a sexy male lead. Also Se7en and Fight Club had more implied violence than explicit violence.
Male choices for fantasy had to be told in an epic tale (like Lord of the Rings). Women are much more accepting of pure fantasy movies like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004), Pan's Labyrinth (2006) and Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003).
Female choices also included more movies about "society" good or bad.
To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
Life Is Beautiful (1997)
The Green Mile (1999)
The Pianist (2002)
Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
I think I agree that the ultimate chick movie was GWTW. Supposedly they sold 200 million tickets when the population of the country was only about 75 million. No movie has ever done that since.
For many men, the ultimate male film is still "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)". It's the only movie that I know that guys brag about seeing a dozen times.
August 27th, 2010 at 1:34:34 PM
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Burce Willis and others are okay, but I'm going with Bogart as the totally guy movie actor and who is also first rate.
(went on a Bogart binge awhile back watching more obscure stuff as well)
(went on a Bogart binge awhile back watching more obscure stuff as well)
There's no secret. Just know what you're talking about before you open your mouth.
August 27th, 2010 at 1:44:05 PM
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How about 'Avatar' or the 'Lord of the Rings' movies? I walked out on Avatar after the first 30min. The first LOTR was OK, I slept thru the last 2, so they were OK also. Too much computer generated crap, I hate it.
As far as Pulp Fiction goes, that why I mentioned how having Picasso explained to me changed my viewpoint. I really think a lot of people over analize Pulp Fiction and miss what the director was trying to do. Its brilliant.
As far as Pulp Fiction goes, that why I mentioned how having Picasso explained to me changed my viewpoint. I really think a lot of people over analize Pulp Fiction and miss what the director was trying to do. Its brilliant.
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
August 27th, 2010 at 2:36:28 PM
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Quote: EvenBobAs far as Pulp Fiction goes, that why I mentioned how having Picasso explained to me changed my viewpoint. I really think a lot of people over analize Pulp Fiction and miss what the director was trying to do. Its brilliant.
I changed my mind. Nareed's Hollywwod Laws Revised Edition begins like this:
1) People who like bad films always claim there is something extraordinary, brilliant, unusual or philosophical about these films. When pressed, however, they cannot bring themselves to say just what that is.
2) Don't ever watch a movie by Quentin Tarantino
3) Whatever happens, nothing happens (stolen from Asimov's First law of Hollywood)
4) Hurry! We need you to wait over here!
Well, it's a work in progress.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
August 27th, 2010 at 3:08:33 PM
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Now I'm in a quandary. What do I do if I like Pulp Fiction AND Nareed's Hollywood Laws Revised Edition?
:)
I could say what it is about Pulp Fiction, but you would still hate it, so, I won't. But I hate quite a few films that have been described as "brilliant", so, big deal 'n all. (I think Jean-Luc Godard is a big blowhard.)
:)
I could say what it is about Pulp Fiction, but you would still hate it, so, I won't. But I hate quite a few films that have been described as "brilliant", so, big deal 'n all. (I think Jean-Luc Godard is a big blowhard.)
A falling knife has no handle.
August 27th, 2010 at 3:39:16 PM
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Quote: MoscaNow I'm in a quandary. What do I do if I like Pulp Fiction AND Nareed's Hollywood Laws Revised Edition?
:)
You can begin by admiting my powers of observation are second to none :P And that it's quite an impressive feat, considering I haven't seen a movie in theaters since "The Dark Knight."
Quote:I could say what it is about Pulp Fiction, but you would still hate it, so, I won't.
That's one frequent dodge.
Another is an entreaty to see the movie again. Yet another is to say "It's OBVIOUS!!!!"
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
August 27th, 2010 at 4:57:48 PM
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Quote: NareedThat's one frequent dodge.
Another is an entreaty to see the movie again. Yet another is to say "It's OBVIOUS!!!!"
No, no, you misunderstand. I'm not going to try and change your mind because if you don't like it, you have your reasons, and it's insulting and arrogant of me to assume that you are wrong and I am right. All analyses begin with an opinion, and go from there. You have no choice but to start with, "I don't like it and here's why...." For you to do otherwise would be false. I have to start with "I like it because...."; same reason.
There's stuff I hate that others love. Oh well. I still hate it, you can't talk me into it. I absolutely can't stand the band U2. I think they are pompous blowhards. But people love them regardless.
A falling knife has no handle.
August 27th, 2010 at 6:21:30 PM
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1) People who like bad films always claim there is something extraordinary, brilliant, unusual or philosophical about these films.>>
Where are all these people who say Pulp Fiction was a 'bad' movie? Rotten Tomatoes, who compiles movie reviews from almost every source imaginable, gave it a 94% rating, which is extremely high. 94% of the critics loved it, the public loved it, it was a huge box office hit. A 2008 Empire poll combining the opinions of readers, movie industry professionals, and critics named Pulp Fiction the 9th best film of all time. NINTH! Mr. Showbiz's READERS' Picks:
The 100 Best Movies of All Time lists it as number THREE. The IMDB gives it a 90% rating out of 1500 reviews. I could go on and on.
How, by any stretch of the imagination, is this a 'bad' movie?
Where are all these people who say Pulp Fiction was a 'bad' movie? Rotten Tomatoes, who compiles movie reviews from almost every source imaginable, gave it a 94% rating, which is extremely high. 94% of the critics loved it, the public loved it, it was a huge box office hit. A 2008 Empire poll combining the opinions of readers, movie industry professionals, and critics named Pulp Fiction the 9th best film of all time. NINTH! Mr. Showbiz's READERS' Picks:
The 100 Best Movies of All Time lists it as number THREE. The IMDB gives it a 90% rating out of 1500 reviews. I could go on and on.
How, by any stretch of the imagination, is this a 'bad' movie?
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
August 27th, 2010 at 7:51:38 PM
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Quote: EvenBobHow, by any stretch of the imagination, is this a 'bad' movie?
Ah, "gotcha" is such a sweet, ugly word.
You've yet to say what's "brilliant" about "Pulp Fiction"
BTW: quality is not a popularity contest, but fads are.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
August 27th, 2010 at 9:16:46 PM
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Can something be brilliant yet not enjoyable? (I went back a couple posts to see why Nareed didn't like Pulp Fiction)
(Hah, I never saw it, btw)
But I read that the script for PF won an oscar.
Was the acting first rate?
Casting, directing, etc., all those things that go into a movie?
Certainly the opposite is true: that some movies are fun, enjoyable, but hardly brilliant unless you're simply measuring by standards of audience appreciation.
Citizen Kane, for instance, was "praised for its innovative cinematography, music and narrative structure. The film was nominated for Academy Awards in nine categories..."
Yet, I can truthfully say, I found it okay while watching it. But what do I know.
(Hah, I never saw it, btw)
But I read that the script for PF won an oscar.
Was the acting first rate?
Casting, directing, etc., all those things that go into a movie?
Certainly the opposite is true: that some movies are fun, enjoyable, but hardly brilliant unless you're simply measuring by standards of audience appreciation.
Citizen Kane, for instance, was "praised for its innovative cinematography, music and narrative structure. The film was nominated for Academy Awards in nine categories..."
Yet, I can truthfully say, I found it okay while watching it. But what do I know.
There's no secret. Just know what you're talking about before you open your mouth.
