That’s right! I said it, “Enema’s,” cause that’s what it felt like when watching this film. Public Enemies was a very disappointing film that lowered my expectations. We won’t talk about the fabulous acting because we already know that these actors can portray magnificent characters. Johnny Depp (John Dillinger) and Christian Bale (Melvin Purvis) have sensational talent that allows them to invisibly fall into a character and get lost in the moment. We have no problem with the great acting in the movie. Billy Crudup (J. Edgar Hoover) can play with the best of them as well. He just impresses us over and over. So, it is not the acting or character work that is the problem with the movie, it is the convoluted script that takes the audience in a whirlwind of events.
The movie opens in 1933 with Dillinger being taken under arrest to a penitentiary by a prison officer (Jason Clarke; later identified as his partner in crime John “Red” Hamilton) who helps Dillinger plan an escape for the rest of their gang members. During the escape, a massive shootout ensues resulting the mentor (Walter Dietrich; played by John Russo) of John Dillinger to get killed. After Dillinger beats and disposes the gang member who caused the shootout, they head to a safe house to recollect themselves before they head off to begin their multiple bank robberies. Elsewhere, we meet FBI agent Melvin Purvis who is in pursuit of another criminal Pretty Boy Floyd (Channing Tatum). In an act of self-defense, Purvis shoots Floyd in the abdominal area causing him to quietus. J. Edgar Hoover is deeply impressed by this slaying that he promotes Purvis to the task to search for Dillinger (America’s Most Wanted Criminal). After Dillinger’s first successful bank robbery, he paints the town by celebrating with his miscreants in an upscale nightclub. There he meets his love interest (Billie Jean: kidding! Billie Frechette: played by Marion Coillard) and he takes her on a ride on his notorious adventures.
Honestly, I didn’t really go into detail of the story because I didn’t know what was going on during the entire grueling film. It was hard to follow because the story was not only mundane but also exceptionally bewildering. I didn’t understand why Dillinger was upset when his mentor dies because I didn’t know that Dietrich was his mentor. There was not a strong relationship built between the two to realize that he was his mentor. I just thought that he was just another gang member.
This film had too many unnecessary scenes with the FBI agents sitting around in their office talking unavailing dialogue. In one of the scenes, Dillinger walks into a police station for some unknown reason (I believe it was to tag along with his partners sibling Polly Hamilton; played by Leelee Sobieski) and looks at his criminal photos. At one point, he asked the police officers a question. Granted he was in a deplorable disguise, the officers did not even recognize him. The only difference that hid his appearance was the tiny moustache covering his identity! That is absolutely ridiculous!
The real issue about the film is not the baffling script but the horrendous cinematography. The film starts off with decent camera work and lighting. As soon as we enter the big gun fight battles, the quality of the picture goes from beautiful to downright atrocious. The gun fights looked liked a horrible reenactment from the television show “America Most Wanted.” The sound quality wasn’t any better. The audience could barely hear the dialogue and I believe the theater had the volume on full blast.
The most shocking notion about this film is that the budget was 80 million dollars. Michael Mann must have paid 25 million dollars each for the two A-list actors. Then ten million split for the rest of the crew. He spent Another 15 million for the cameras, costumes, old cars, etc. Rumor has it that Johnny Deep got to touch and play around with John Dillingers real possessions (clothes and guns) which probably cost Mr. Mann another 4 million. So, that leaves Mr. Mann with one million dollars to spend on the film in order to actually make the film in the highest quality of “America’s Most Wanted,” episode. Those criminals split 80 million dollars, I feel like I got robbed!
I believe we have all seen this one before.Okay, maybe you haven’t seen this actual film yet, but all of us have seen a very similar movie in the past.This direct-to-DVD is absolutely nonsense.“Van Wilder: Freshman Year” is your typical National Lampoon raunchy teen comedy that appeals to no one over the age of 18.Nothing about this film is fresh, yet I don’t think they are trying to fool anyone.
“Van Wilder: Freshman Year” is at no surprise a prequel to the 2002 instant classic “Van Wilder” starring Ryan Reynolds.Unfortunately, this third installment of the franchise does not star the comedic genius or anyone else from the original.Even supporting actor Kal Penn from the first film who scored his own spin-off, “Rise of Taj”, isn’t in this unnecessary prequel.
It isn’t expected for any of the originals to return to the franchise, but these producers need to realize that they are the reason why the first movie was successful.This movie was no doubt made just for a quick buck.I suppose this is fine if the buyer knows what they are getting themselves into before their purchase.I only expect horny teenage boys to be buying this film anyway.
The cover says it all.Nothing screams quality more than a DVD cover of a girl’s topless back wearing the smallest booty shorts ever with the name of the movie on her tush.I stand corrected as I double check; it just says “UNRATED” on her shorts.I suppose I wasn’t really reading the front, but I digress.
The prequel involves Van Wilder’s first year at Coolidge College.When Wilder, Jonathan Bennett, arrives he quickly realizes the school has a no tolerance policy toward anything party related.This goes as far as kissing.Coolidge is quite a different school then the viewer might remember from the first movie.Mr. Wilder will slowly work at changing his college into a party school while trying to win the heart of the campus hottie played by Kristin Cavallari (The Hills).Van makes a small transformation just to set-up why he is still in college in the first movie.In doing so, Van of course goes through the crazy antics of any normal teen movie with plenty of sex and loads of nudity.Are you teenagers on your way to pick up your copy yet?
Our star Jonathan Bennett is known for “Bachelor Party in Vegas” and makes a decent Ryan Reynolds even though he looks nothing like him.His character isn’t all that similar to the original, but at least he delivers his lines like Reynolds.The movies antagonist, Steve Talley, is much like the “bad guy” in school in the first film; however this one doesn’t really love his girlfriend like the prior.Talley isn’t new to this scene.In fact him and his sidekick in the movie, Nic Nac (Yes, that’s his name), aren’t new to these direct-to-DVD sequels as both were featured in the “American Pie” direct-to-DVD sequels.I basically put these movies in a class of their own as there isn’t much that sets them apart from another.
“Van Wilder: Freshmen Year” has no surprises here.It has the same unintelligent potty humor, outrageous physical comedy, and sexual situations we have all come accustomed to.Although, there’s nothing really wrong with this film except the fact it’s catering to a really small demographic making me think it’s not the smartest move.The ending reminds of past outlandish ending scenarios from movies like “Old School” and “Billy Madison” where there is a bizarre competition where the hero of the movie amazingly pulls off a victory through absurd circumstances.Unbelievable and unoriginal, but we know its coming.
BONUS FEATURES Commentary with Director Hary Glazer and Cast Creating the Legend: The Making of Van Wilder: Freshmen Year Going Balls Out: Colossus Coolidge College: Orientation Video Decatur (Satire on The Hills) Teacher’s Pets Bloopers Van’s Party Supplies Pranks 101
Two of the most popular young actresses, Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato, star in the adventure comedy “Princess Protection Program,” a Disney Channel Original Movie about two very different girls – a princess from a small kingdom and a small town girl who, when fate brings them together, must team up to help the would-be queen pass for a regular teen. The “Royal B.F.F. Extended Edition” will be available Tuesday, June 30 on Disney DVD and will feature an exclusive new music video of “One and the Same” performed by Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato, a behind-the-scenes look at the film with the teen stars, and a free “B.F.F” necklace set.
Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato star in Disney Channel series, and were each discovered as pre-teens via the channel’s nationwide talent searches. Gomez stars in the hit comedy “Wizards of Waverly Place” which is 2009’s #3 scripted TV series among Kids 6-11 and #2 among Tweens 9-14. Lovato stars in the hit comedy series “Sonny with a Chance,” TV’s #1 program among Kids 6-11 since its February 2009 premiere. In Tweens 9- 14, “Sonny with a Chance” is in a virtual tie with “American Idol” for TV’s #1 post and ranks as the #1 scripted program on all TV in the key Tween demographic. Lovato also stars in “Camp Rock,” 2008’s #1 cable TV telecast in Total Viewers and Tweens.
In the movie, royalty meets reality with Carter Mason, a rural Louisiana teen, and Rosalinda Marie Montoya Fiore, the soon-to-be teenage monarch of the tiny country of Costa Luna. The pair meets after Carter’s father, an agent in the covert international Princess Protection Program, rescues Rosalinda from a military take-over. He whisks Rosalinda to a PPP base where she receives a temporary new identity, Rosie Gonzalez, and is placed in his care until order can be restored in Costa Luna. When he arrives back in Lake Monroe, both teenagers are shell-shocked when Rosie moves into Carter’s room and the princess, posing as Carter’s visiting cousin from Iowa, begins adjusting to country life and enrolls in Carter’s school. Despite their differences, the girls slowly learn that there’s not only a lot to like about each other, but lessons to learn as well. That’s apparent when Rosie nominates Carter for homecoming queen over the heated objections of two jealous rivals, Chelsea and Brooke. And with her newfound realization, Carter brainstorms a way to help her new best friend regain her throne, even if it puts her own well-being at risk.
Princess Protection Program is excellently cast, written, and produced. It works perfectly for it’s target age range of tweens and teens. Yes, there are those who may say that the movie is a bit far-fetched and the storyline perhaps not very deep. However, those complaints ignore the fact that the film is geared towards a younger crowd. Additionally, the fairytale aspect adds enjoyment to the movie. Disney aims to produce good quality and entertaining programming for today’s youth and I think they managed that perfectly once again with Princess Protection Program.
The “Royal B.F.F. Extended Edition” of Princess Protection Program also includes bonus features. There is “Royal & Loyal BFFs,“ where Gomez and Lovato reveal secrets about their real-life friendship and “A Royal Reality,” which is a very interesting peek into the life of a real-life princess, including her royal responsibilities, gowns, and castles. For the music lovers, there is also a great music video, “One and the Same,” starring both Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato. One can tell the girls had a ton of fun making this video and it is a very well done video both in its visual and vocal aspects.
All in all, Princess Protection Program is another success for Disney Channel originals. Girls will love this and it will also make for a great family movie night at home. Even those of the male variety are sure to get a few laughs throughout the film! For great wholesomeness, fun, and tight bonds of friendship and loyalty.
Guinness World Records: The Video Game is a collection of 36 mini-games that challenge players to beat the Guinness World Record holder. From crushing watermelons with the “player’s head” and plucking feathers from a “turkey,” to throwing a “washing machine” the farthest, all using the touch screen and motion sensing technologies of the iPhone and iPod Touch, the fun never stops. Players can attempt to beat their state world record holder or the regional record holder, which makes getting the records a bit more manageable. Players can also try and beat their own records because the top three scores on any event are saved.
The games are all different and the controls can be different. One of the challenges is to beat the video game world record. Players have to play a game similar to Astroids. Players are in a ship and shoot other ships by taping on the enemy ship. Double tapping the screen will cause your ship to move around the screen and away from enemies. The touch controls make the game a bit more challenging if you are a person that likes to “button mash”. If you “button mash” on the touch screen, you end up flying all over the place and usually into the enemy. The enemies are moving towards you and if you are randomly clicking the screen chances are you will miss the enemy and double click on open space causing your ship to move. The interface of the game is great, the cartoon effect works really well with the game. Quick and easy to use, get straight into the game. In game instructions that tell you how to do everything to get you started.
Over all the game is fun to play and adds the addictive nature of trying to beat records. Some of the records seemed impossible to attain, but they are not. It just takes a little effort and practice and players will be able to attain the state or even regional record. The game has a unique new technology that utilizes the Game Spy leader board engine, which enables you to compete for the virtual world record in a variety of categories. If you are driven by competition or like mini-games, check out Guinness World Records: The Video Game for the iPhone or iPod Touch, for only $4.99.
The world’s three favorite brothers rock out in 3-D only on Blu-ray in their first motion picture, Jonas Brothers: The Concert Experience – Deluxe Extended Movie from Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment. Included are 4 songs that were never seen when the movie played in theatres, including two integrated into the film itself, extending the experience.
Available for a limited time only, Jonas Brothers: The Concert Experience – Deluxe Extended Movie comes in a 3-Disc Combo Pack, which, in addition to the 3-D and 2-D versions of the movie on Blu-ray, contains a standard definition DVD (the extended film in 2-D ); and a DisneyFile (a digital copy of the 2-D extended movie viewers can enjoy.) Bonus features include Get Up Close and Personal, an intimate look at the brothers; 2 Additional Bonus Songs, “Love Bug” and “Shelf”; and 4 free pairs of 3-D glasses.
Jonas Brothers: The Concert Experience – Deluxe Extended Movie, in 3-D, makes the event so real, viewers can virtually reach out and touch the brothers. Up Close and Personal brings fans closer than ever to Kevin, Joe and Nick’s world as they and their band prepare for their live sold-out concerts all over the world. The movie also includes outstanding guest appearances by chart-topping artists Demi Lovato and Taylor Swift.
All things considered, The Blu-ray edition of The Jonas Brothers: 3-D Concert Experience won’t give fans or critics much to complain about (at least from an AV perspective). Whether you select the 2D or 3D version of the concert, Disney’s BD-50 disc offers a solid, at-times gorgeous transfer that thoroughly trounces its standard DVD counterpart.
The 3-disc Blu-ray edition of The Jonas Brothers: 3-D Concert Experience offers both 2D and 3D versions of the performance, four pairs of 3D glasses, an extended 89-minute cut of the movie itself (with two additional songs: “Can’t Have You” and “A Little Bit Longer”), two bonus songs from the cutting room floor (HD, 8 minutes), and Up Close and Personal (HD, 15 minutes), a semi-decent behind-the-scenes featurette that gives the Jonas boys a chance to reflect on their tour, careers, and fame. A 2D edition DVD and a standard definition DisneyFile digital copy disc are included as well.
Watch the Trailer:
The Concert Experience: Deluxe Extended Movie (3-Disc Combo Pack) includes:
Disc One—Blu-ray 3-D and 2-D Extended Version of the Movie with 2 performances not seen in theaters — “Can’t Have You” and “A Little Bit Longer”
2 Additional Bonus Songs – “Love Bug” and “Shelf”
Up Close & Personal — Go behind the scenes with the ‘Jo-Bros’ and learn what this tour means to them.
4 free pairs of 3-D glasses
Disc Two–DVD 2-D Extended Version of the movie with 2 performances not seen in theaters – “Can’t Have You” and “A Little Bit Longer” plus bonus features listed above.
Disc Three DisneyFile – Digital Copy of extended movie in 2-D
The Concert Experience: Extended Movie (2-Disc Standard Def DVD) includes:
Disc One
2-D Extended Movie with 2 Additional Performances – “Can’t Have You” and “A Little Bit Longer”
2 Additional Bonus Songs – “Love Bug” and “Shelf”
Up Close & Personal – Go behind the scenes with the ‘Jo-Bros’ and learn what this tour means to them.
Disc Two
DisneyFile Digital Copy of extended movie in 2-D.
The Concert Experience (Single Standard Def DVD Disc) features:
Going into a movie like Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, you pretty much know what you’re in for. Afer all, it is a Michael Bay movie, and with that label comes certain expectations. The movie will be a huge spectacle of noise and fury. It will be loud, it will be crass, and it will probably not make a whole lot of sense. Some people buy into Bay’s world of excess, and just as many despise everything about it. At the risk of alienating the latter, I have to confess that with the excpetion of Pearl Harbor, I have thoroughly enjoyed every one of his movies. And that includes Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.
Having said that, it could have been much better. There is a terrific movie buried within the entirety of the film, but sometimes it’s pretty hard to spot underneath the extraordinarily juvenile “humor,” disjointed storytelling and inane dialogue. Another vicitm of the Writers’ Strike, an outline of the script by Robert Orci, Alex Kurtzman and Ehren Kruger was rushed into completion in order for Bay to begin Pre-Production during the strike. As such, it’s a film of (rather spectacular) ideas and sequences more than anything.
Assuming that we have all seen the first film, this time around begins with the Autobots (the good Transformers) working with the Govenment in an attempt to hunt and capture the remaining Decepticons (the bad Transformers). But why are the Decepticons still here when they were defeated in the last film? Of course, in typical sequel fashion, the answer is on a much larger scale than last time, spanning thousands of years, enhancing the mythology of the Transformers, and yet all coming back to the central character, Sam Witwicky.
As played by Shia LaBeouf, Witwicky is just a normal kid starting college with typical freshman worries. He just happens to have gotten caught up in this epic battle. Tagging along for no reason beyond providing eye candy for the audience is Megan Fox, bringing absolutely nothing substantial to the role. There is an attempt at fleshing out their relationship, but that is all filler between the robot fighting.
And the robot fighting is what this movie is all about. It is non-stop, huge-scale, massive action animated superbly by the geniuses at Industrial Light and Magic. The effects aren’t the most photo-realistic they’ve done, but the artistry behind them is a thrill to watch. There is almost always something visually exciting on screen, even if there isn’t anything of real substance behind it.
With so much happening at all times, it is very easy to lose yourself in a movie like this. Having said that, there are three characters that come close to ruining every scene they are in. The first of these is Sam’s mother, Judy Witwicky, played by Julie White. While the entire movie is over-the-top, she takes this concept to a cringe-worthy, embarrassingly awful level. Overacting the simplest of sequences, she creates a caricature of a mother losing her son to the adult world. I hated every shrieking line of dialogue, and every aspect of the performance. The other two are the twin robots, Wheelie and Skids, played by Tom Kenny (the voice of Spongebob Squarepants). Portrayed as uneducated ghetto robots, complete with gold teeth, I felt like cringing everytime they were on screen.
Despite these flaws, the movie is a blast to watch. Every setpiece and every transformation took me back to when I would spend hours playing with my Transformer toys as a kid. This is a Michael Bay movie through and through, and if you are somebody who can appreciate his over-the-top playground, then this is definitely worth seeing on the big screen.
Eighteen job hunters competed for the ultimate dream job at LEGOLAND® California today and five walked away with offers to work as Model Builders at the family theme park in Carlsbad. Joel Baker (23) of Seattle, Washington; Brian Heins (35) of San Diego, California; Amanda Jouan (26) of Chula Vista, California; Mark Larson (32) of Chicago, Illinois; and Ryan Wood (25) of Los Angeles, California out built other hopeful contenders to be the newest members of the LEGOLAND Model Shop Team.
The Model Builder Search began with 150 people submitting applications online. More than 25 were selected to compete in the first round of competition on June 25 in which qualified candidates were asked to complete three challenges: a copy build, where applicants had to copy an existing LEGO® model; a team build, where applicants were challenged to build something together; and a creative build where each applicant built a model within just one hour, testing their creativity and time management skills.
The search culminated with today’s final build-off where Park guests watched in anticipation as the finalists had just two hours to build an impressive 3D model based on the Park’s newest area, Land of Adventure. They were judged on their creativity, strategy, ability to build a three-dimensional model and their calmness under pressure. After today’s competition, all of the finalists got the chance to slide down Dune Raiders, the Park’s newest ride before it opens to the public June 26, 2009. The winners’ models will be installed in Dune Raiders to be seen by Park guests all summer long.
Dune Raiders features six side-by-side nearly 50-foot-long racing lanes and a pair of double-helix corkscrews that are more than 15 feet high. The fifth attraction within Land of Adventure, Dune Raiders is themed in an Egyptian bazaar motif complete with a new gaming area called Thunder’s Quest and new LEGO models including a snake charmer with animated snakes.
Baker, Heins, Jouan, Larson and Wood will not only help with projects within LEGOLAND California such as Dune Raiders, but will help build the thousands of LEGO models going on display in other Merlin Entertainments properties such as LEGOLAND Malaysia, LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Shaumburg, LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Xanadu and LEGOLAND Dubailand as well.
The Model Builders hired today will have 30 days in which to start their new job. There are a mere 24 Model Builders at all four LEGOLAND Parks. Ten of them currently work here at LEGOLAND California. Coming from various backgrounds and skills, they all have two things in common: They use every ounce of creativity in their daily work, and they’re passionate about it.
With so many talented finalists, LEGOLAND California also offered entry level positions to four of the competitors. Bryan Decker of San Diego, Samuel Swiger of Carlsbad, Eric Christie of Hemet and Dana Bradsema of San Diego will be working on the Model Shop Team at LEGOLAND California as Model Shop Associates.
Columbia Pictures and Apatow Productions (founder Judd Apatow) should have thought about it very thoroughly to change the name to “Year None,” since the movie had nothing to provide to the audience, not one bit of satisfaction. The movie was disappointing to say the least. You have two main characters an awful hunter, Zed (Jack Black) and an awful gatherer, Oh (Michael Cera) who are smitten by two of the women in their tribe Maya (June Raphael) and Eema (Juno Temple). Zed wants to desperately impress Maya that he can be a useful man to the tribe, so he decides to eat a golden apple from the forbidden tree of knowledge of good and evil. Zed begins to believe that he is becoming a genius but the tribe finds out what he did, so he is forced to leave the tribe. He decides to start his own tribe and as he leaves to explore the other parts of earth he accidentally sets fire to Oh’s house forcing Oh to join his quest. During their exploration, Zed and Oh encounter many biblical people. The first are Cain and Abel, and they witness Cain killing Abel thus forcing Cain to flee with them on their quest. They encounter another civilization where they find out that Maya and Eema have been enslaved and they ploy a plot to release them.
The film had too much potty humor that was childish. It took away from the clever humor that these comic genus’s could have provided. The film had wasted talent riding on this film. Paul Rudd and Bill Hader, two brilliant comic actors, wasted their talents on their cameo parts. Bill hader as the shaman was probably the only one that outshined the entire cast, which is sad to say. The ending credits were probably the funniest part of the movie because you got the chance to see the bloopers where the actors were honest in their comedy. The person to blame was Harold Ramis for not having a well-written script and no sense of direction. Ramis’ actors were all over the place without any clear direction to go. In the Abel and Cain scene, Cain (David Cross) did not know what he was doing. Cross is an amazing comic actor, yet he did not have a clear intention in the scene. Cross was just simply trying too hard because he was focused on being funny than being honest. The difference is that being funny is trying to make unfunny jokes funny, which can be Inevitable. Honesty is the key to funny which is as simple as playing your intention with action. At times, Jack Black and Michael Cera had the same problems. The blame really falls on the horrible script that didn’t provide clear intentions. It basically went for the potty humor, which is a cheap shot of making comedy films. Films that do this type of humor is not challenging, it would be understanable if it was half potty and half clever, yet it did not provide that.
Michael Cera and Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Isaac) have a common acting ground, they tend to play the same character in every movie. They are one-dimensional actors that have no level of range. It is working for Cera because he does have a unique type of humor. His improvisational skills are very strong and at times can be limitless. Cera does need to take an acting class, which would make him unstoppable. On the other hand, Christopher Mintz-Plasse definitely needs to take an acting class. He is becoming annoying and if he keeps this up his fifteen minutes of fame will be up. He does deserve some credit with Role Models because he did play a role a little different from his Mclovin role from Superbad. In Year One, it seems that he reprised the role of Mclovin, which did not surprisingly fit in this type of film.
The costumes and make-up in the film was very valued for a comedy. The production value was up to par. It should be up to par if you have a budget of 60 million dollars. The gold make-up on Cera was priceless. The amazing make-up on Bill Hader was also priceless. Bill hader was completely unrecognizable. His impressions in the ending credits were great; one in particular was Daniel Day-Lewis in “There Will Be Blood.” His impression alone helped the film get a rating of 5 out of 10. Here is some advice; Judd Apatow is a genus when it comes to directing comedies. Everything he touches becomes gold. He should have directed this one when he read the script because he could have possibly salvaged some things from the awful script. Never mind, when you have a bad script it is Inevitable.
Summer at the Orange County Performing Arts Center is packed full of free events and classic Broadway productions the whole family can enjoy together. The Center’s fun summer offerings are: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang July 7 – 19, which will feature local children who have been cast in the production for the Orange County engagement; the popular free outdoor Movie Mondays series with Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory July 13, Annie July 20, Footloose July 27 and Mamma Mia! August 3; the timeless story of Fiddler on the Roof starring Chaim Topol August 11 – 23 and the Choral Festival, Pacific Chorale’s free public concert August 23 in the Renée & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.
Tickets to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Fiddler on the Roof are available online at OCPAC.org, the Center’s Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa or by calling 714.556.2787. For inquiries about group ticket discounts for 15 or more, call the Group Sales office at 714.755.0236. The TTY number is 714.556.2746.
Movie Mondays and the Choral Festival are part of the Center’s Free for All Series, which offers audiences new and exciting ways to experience the Center – at no cost. The Free for All events are open to the public. Movie Mondays do not require tickets. Seating for the Choral Festival will be on a first-come, first-served basis
SCHEDULE OF SUMMER EVENTS:
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang July 7 – 19 in Segerstrom Hall Tickets: $20 – $70
You’ll believe a car can fly! Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is everything you could want in a musical – and more. Sensational sets, stunning special effects, an irresistible story and unforgettable Sherman brothers score, including memorable classics such as “Truly Scrumptious,” “Hushabye Mountain” and of course, the Oscar®- nominated title song, all add up to a Broadway blockbuster the whole family will love.
Free For All: Movie Mondays July 13, 20, 27 and August 3 on the community plaza Tickets: FREE
This alfresco series is held on the Center’s 46,000-square-foot community plaza with the films projected on the side of Segerstrom Hall. Guests are encouraged to bring beach chairs or other easily portable seating items. Set-up begins at 5:30 p.m. with the movie starting at dusk (approximately 8 p.m.). Guests may bring their own snacks and picnic suppers. Patina Catering will have assorted snacks and beverages available for purchase. Barbecues and similar food preparation will not be permitted.
July 13 – Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Rated G, 1971, 1 hour and 40 minutes
July 20 – Annie Fans of Annie can also see the musical when the 30th anniversary tour visits the Center January 29 – 3 2010. Rated G, 1982, 2 hours, 7 minutes
August 3 – Mamma Mia! Rated PG-13, 2008, 1 hour and 48 minutes
Fiddler on the Roof August 11 – 23 in Segerstrom Hall Tickets: $20 – $75
Topol, the original Tevye, performs the role that made him legendary in Fiddler on the Roof, the Tony® Award winning musical that has captured the hearts of people all over the world with its universal appeal. Based on the stories of Sholom Aleichem, Fiddler on the Roof has been lauded by critics again and again. Filled with a rousing, heartwarming score, which includes “Tradition,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Sunrise, Sunset,” Fiddler on the Roof is a true classic.
Free for All: Pacific Chorale’s Choral Festival August 23 at 5 p.m. in the Renée & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Tickets: FREE
Members of Orange County’s choral community will be joined by Pacific Chorale and Artistic Director John Alexander, as well as eminent organist Frederick Swann at the C.B. Fisk Opus 130 William J. Gillespie Concert Organ for this free public performance. The repertoire of masterworks of the choral literature, designed as a showcase of “Great Choral Treasures,” includes Beethoven, Bach and Mendelssohn. For more details, please visit pacificchorale.org.
Mercedes-Benz USA is the Premier Sponsor of the Orange County Performing Arts Center’s 2008-2009 Season.
SYNOPSIS When fashionista Rebecca Bloomwood’s out-of-control spending reaches the outer limits of her credit cards, she is forced to find employment to pay for her label-icious wardrobe. Her dream job is a position at New York’s top fashion rag Alette, but she has to settle for a desk at Successful Saving, a struggling financial magazine owned by the same publishing company. With a dogged debt collector (Robert Stanton) hot on her stilettos, Becky becomes the unlikely author of a column on saving money—with a little help from her friends at Google. Her unconventional outlook on money matters attracts the approval of her dreamy boss, Luke Brandon (Hugh Dancy), and Becky begins to think maybe there is a whole new world waiting for her just a few steps away from Madison Avenue.
A flat broke fashion junkie is hired to dispense monetary advice in the stylishly funny romantic comedy Confessions of a Shopaholic, coming to Blu-rayTM Hi-Def and DVD on June 23, 2009 from Touchstone Home Entertainment. Legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer (the Pirates of the Caribbean and National Treasure franchises) presents a lighthearted, feel-good romp based on Sophie Kinsella’s best selling novels about a fashion forward New Yorker who trades frocks for finance and finds fulfillment in the most unexpected place. Available in 1-disc DVD plus 2-disc DVD and Blu-ray editions that include Digital Copy, Confessions of a Shopaholic sports bonus features including bloopers, deleted scenes, and a music video. The Blu-ray has even more bonus features, including a look behind the making of this season’s must-have accessory for anyone who loves to laugh.
Confessions of a Shopaholic’s strong ensemble cast includes Isla Fisher (Wedding Crashers), Hugh Dancy (The Jane Austen Book Club), Krysten Ritter (What Happens in Vegas), Joan Cusack (Friends with Money), John Goodman (Speed Racer), John Lithgow (Dreamgirls) and Kristin Scott Thomas (The Other Boleyn Girl). Directed by P. J. Hogan (My Best Friend’s Wedding) with a comic touch as light as the rarefied air of the fashion world, Confessions of a Shopaholic also features costumes by iconic designer Patricia Field (Sex and the City, The Devil Wears Prada) that give New York’s Fashion Week a run for its money.
The Blu-ray edition of Confessions of a Shopaholic may boast a fairly proficient DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track, but the film’s sound design is as uninspiring and uninvolving as you’d expect from a formulaic romantic comedy. Dialogue is bright and clear, prioritization leaves no line behind, and pans are silky smooth, but rear speaker activity is so maddeningly reserved that the mix fails to recreate the hustle and bustle of New York’s busy streets. LFE support is competent, but usually produces similar results: traffic lacks presence, effects lack weight, and movement lacks the heft provided by the best lossless tracks on the market. It isn’t overly distracting per se, but it does leave the soundscape malnourished from time to time. In all, this DTS-HD MA offering is often as thin and superficial as the film it accompanies. It won’t spoil the experience for anyone swept up in Rebecca’s world, but it certainly doesn’t break the romcom mold.
Disney has at least cobbled together a decent Blu-ray release. It doesn’t offer much in the way of supplemental material, but its attractive video transfer and passable DTS-HD Master Audio track should satisfy genre regulars looking for a solid AV presentation.
Watch the Trailer:
BONUS FEATURES FOR CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC
Both the Blu-ray Hi-Def and DVD Editions of Confessions of a Shopaholic include these exciting bonus features:
• Bloopers • Deleted Scenes • “Stuck with Each Other” Music Video by Shontelle Featuring Akon
Plus, available exclusively on Blu-ray Hi-Def:
• “Accessory” Music Video by Jordan Taylor • “Takes Time to Love” Music Video by Trey Songz • Behind the Fashion – A collection of insider peeks at the making of Confessions of a Shopaholic, including: o Wardrobe by Patricia Field – The renowned fashion designer takes viewers into her studio and shares some of the secrets of her outrageous creative process. o Temple of Shopping – The inspiration for Rebecca Bloomwood’s fashion wonderland is finally revealed. o The Green Scarf – Fans will learn more about the all-important accessory that drives Rebecca to take desperate measures. o New York Fashion Central – A style-centric tour of the home of more shopaholics per square foot than anywhere else on the planet. o Sample Sale Madness – The filming of the film’s hilariously chaotic shopping spree. o Window Shopping – The Shopaholic team brings store windows to life along shopping mecca Madison Avenue.
Synopsis: Steve Martin returns to the scene of the fun as the brilliant, bumbling Inspector Jacques Clouseau in this side-splitting slapstick comedy for the whole family! When legendary treasures from around the world are stolen, including the priceless Pink Panther diamond, Clouseau is assigned to a dream team of international detectives who are under pressure to bring the master thief to justice before he strikes again. Co-starring Jean Reno, Alfred Molina, Andy Garcia, Lily Tomlin and John Cleese, The Pink Panther 2 will steal your heart…and keep you laughing!
Inspect the unexpected when five-time Golden Globe-nominee Steve Martin* (Father of the Bride) springs back into action as the blundering French police officer, Inspector Jacques Clouseau, in the all-new The Pink Panther 2 available on Blu-ray Disc (BD) with Digital Copy June 23 from MGM Home Entertainment. Co-starring Oscar-nominees John Cleese** (Rat Race) and Andy Garcia*** (Ocean’s Eleven), Yuki Matsuzaki (Letters From Iwo Jima), Emily Mortimer (Lars and the Real Girl) and Bollywood sensation Aishwarya Rai (The Mistress of Spices), The Pink Panther 2 is the side-splitting sequel to the worldwide hit The Pink Panther, based on the 1964 original starring the legendary Peter Sellers. After a thief known as “The Tornado” allegedly steals a variety of precious items, including France’s beloved pink panther diamond, an “international dream team” of detectives band together to crack the case. Slowing down the process is the team’s leader, Inspector Clouseau, the highly unintelligent officer who has a way of missing the obvious until he somehow stumbles onto the truth.
Packed with amusing adventure for the whole family, The Pink Panther 2 Blu-ray Disc includes a fun-filled three-disc version of the film with bonus disc featuring 27 Pink Panther cartoons and Digital Copy for portable media players. Fully loaded with all-new bonus features including a gag reel, exclusive behind-the-scenes featurettes, and more.
For something called “The Pink Panther” about a jewel heist, you would expect the Blu-ray release to sparkle, but it doesn’t. The Pink Panther 2 looks rather dull in this 1.85:1 AVC/MPEG-4 high definition presentation from MGM. It’s like contrast levels were set a bit too low. The picture is also a bit unstable and grain is a little jittery. Flesh tones are far more bronze than they should be at times, as well. The most exciting looking parts of this film, sadly, are the animated opening credits.
The first “Pink Panther” film starring Steve Martin was passable entertainment, but this sequel is a painful disaster as Cousteau bumbles through the film in unfunny ways. I had hoped Martin would have refined his portrayal of Jacques Cousteau for the second outing, but he regressed into a state of absurdity. The Blu-ray release contains less than a half an hour of bonus footage on the Blu-ray disc, but it is technically sound. The only reason I can come up with to purchase this title is for the three hours of vintage “Pink Panther” cartoons contained on one of the bonus DVDs of this three disc set.
Three-Disc Blu-ray Disc Specs: The Pink Panther 2 Blu-ray Disc (BD) with Digital Copy is presented in widescreen format (FOX TO PROVIDE) with English 5.1 DTS HD Master Audio and Spanish/French 5.1 Dolby Surround with English, French and Spanish subtitles. Bonus features include:
Disc One · Gag reel · Drama is Easy…Comedy is Dangerous · A Dream Team Like No Other · Master Thief-Global Crime Showdown!
Disc Two · Digital Copy File of The Pink Panther 2 for Portable Players
Disc Three · Bonus disc featuring 27 Pink Panther cartoons o The Pink Phink – 1964 Academy-Award winner for Short Subjects, Animated Films o Pink Pajamas o We Give Pink Stamps o Dial ‘P’ For Pink o Sink Pink o Pickled Pink o Pinkfinger o Shocking Pink o Pink Ice o The Pink Tail Fly o Pink Panzer o An Ounce of Pink o Reel Pink o Bully For Pink o Pink Punch o Pink Pistons o Vitamin Pink o The Pink Blue Print o Pink, Plunk, Plink o Smile Pretty, Say Pink o Pink-A-Boo o Genie With The Light Pink Fur o Super Pink o Rock A Bye Pinky o Pinknic o Pink Panic o Pink Posies
Two-Disc DVD Specs: The Pink Panther 2 DVD release features the theatrical version of the film presented in widescreen format (FOX TO PROVIDE) with English 5.1 Dolby Surround and Spanish/French Dolby Surround with English and Spanish subtitles. Bonus features include:
Disc One · Theatrical version of The Pink Panther 2
Disc Two · Bonus disc featuring 27 Pink Panther cartoons o The Pink Phink – 1964 Academy-AwardÒ winner for Short Subjects, Animated Films o Pink Pajamas o We Give Pink Stamps o Dial ‘P’ For Pink o Sink Pink o Pickled Pink o Pinkfinger o Shocking Pink o Pink Ice o The Pink Tail Fly o Pink Panzer o An Ounce of Pink o Reel Pink o Bully For Pink o Pink Punch o Pink Pistons o Vitamin Pink o The Pink Blue Print o Pink, Plunk, Plink o Smile Pretty, Say Pink o Pink-A-Boo o Genie With The Light Pink Fur o Super Pink o Rock A Bye Pinky o Pinknic o Pink Panic o Pink Posies
Rhythmic drum beats punctuate the night air. Red, white and blue lights shine down from atop a 320-foot tower. Laughter can be heard as silly sea lions and mischievous otters wreak havoc on stage. Killer whales star in their own rock ’n’ roll concert featuring hot lights and cool tunes. Then, as the evening comes to a crescendo, fireworks light up the night sky over Mission Bay. It’s all part of an annual tradition called Summer Nights at SeaWorld.
With so much to see and do, guests will want to stay late and play during Summer Nights at SeaWorld Presented by Pepsi. The marine-life park’s summertime entertainment extravaganza gets under way weekends, May 23–June 7; and runs nightly, June 13–Aug. 30 and Sept. 5–7. Here’s a look at the 2009 lineup (please note opening and closing dates for various shows):
New this year! • “Sea Lions LIVE”: SeaWorld newest sketch-based comedy show, “Sea Lions LIVE,” stars the park’s prankster-loving pinnipeds Clyde and Seamore. During “Sea Lions LIVE,” Clyde and Seamore poke fun at popular TV shows such as “American Idol,” with their own rendition known as “Sea Lion Idol.” One of the show’s highlights is “Dancing with the Pinnipeds” (a parody of “Dancing with the Stars”), during which Clyde and Seamore perform a sea lion swing to “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and a flipper-tapping tango to “La Cupersita.” “Sea Lions LIVE,” which debuted in April 2009, is presented during the day year round at SeaWorld; during Summer Nights, guests can enjoy the return of the nighttime seasonal show, “Sea Lions Tonite.”Summer Nights Favorites
• “Shamu Rocks”: The world-famous killer whale takes center stage during Summer Nights in this 20-minute musical journey that transports Shamu around the globe, through awesome natural settings. Shamu’s visual experience is enhanced by images on four LED screens that move and rotate, dazzling the audience with a rockin’ show.
• “Sea Lions Tonite”: Summer Nights guests won’t want to miss “Sea Lions Tonite,” a hilarious adventure featuring famous California sea lions Clyde and Seamore. The prankster-loving pinnipeds poke fun at the stars of classic daytime SeaWorld shows, including “Dolphin Discovery,” “Believe,” “Pets Rule!” and “Cirque de la Mer.”
• “Ignight”: SeaWorld’s energetic nighttime dolphin show “Ignight” lights up Dolphin Stadium, with bottlenose dolphins performing high-flyin’ behaviors, punctuated by rock ’n’ roll music, lighting effects and pyrotechnics.
• “Riptide”: Over at the main stage in the park’s entrance plaza, amazing hip-hop dancers, gymnasts, drummers and rhythmic artists entertain audiences with their incredible talents on a multi-level stage in this award-winning show. The talented ensemble of 20 cast members combines artistic and rhythmic gymnastics, percussion and hip-hop dancing, all set to a soundtrack of rock, Latin, jazz and Broadway theater music. “Riptide” opens June 13 and runs nightly through Aug. 30 and Sept. 5–7.
• Fireworks: “Shamu’s SkySplash” fireworks take place every Summer Nights evening. Note: During the July 4th weekend, the park presents “Shamu’s SkySplash USA,” an extended display of fireworks set to patriotic music, July 3, 4 and 5.
• SeaWorld Skytower: SeaWorld’s iconic 320-foot Skytower will be decked out in thousands of red, white and blue lights starting July 4 and continuing through Sept. 7.
Attractions, rides and more: • In addition to the special summer shows and activities, nearly all of SeaWorld’s other attractions remain open every evening during Summer Nights, including Shipwreck Rapids, Journey To Atlantis, Wild Arctic, the Penguin Encounter and Sesame Street Bay of Play, a whimsical, two-acre play area for kids with three family-friendly rides and character meet and greets.
Summer Daytime Fun • “Cirque de la Mer”: Returning for its ninth summer, this acrobatic odyssey is performed on land, water and in the air at SeaWorld’s bayside lagoon venue, the Amphibitheater. The popular summer daytime show features acrobats, hand balancers, aerialists, trapeze artists and comic performers. “Cirque de la Mer” opens May 23 and closes Aug. 16.
• Daytime animal shows: All of SeaWorld’s favorite year-round shows can be seen during the summer, including the magnificent “Believe” killer whale show, the hilarious “Sea Lions LIVE” and the always-adorable “Pets Rule!”
Tips for making the most of your Summer Nights at SeaWorld • Log on to the park’s Web site at www.seaworldsandiego.com and purchase tickets online using the Print Your Ticket at home option. Guests also can learn about park discounts and current operating hours online.
• During projected days of peak attendance, SeaWorld allows guests to enter the front of the park 45 minutes prior to full-park opening. Early birds can use this time to pick up a park map and check the show schedule, grab a light breakfast and plan their day.
• Arrive at animal shows at least 30 to 45 minutes before the scheduled show time to secure a good seat and enjoy interactive, crowd-pleasing, pre-show activities.
• Visit SeaWorld attractions while animal shows in the area are occurring: while thousands of guests are watching the “Dolphin Discovery” show, visit the Shark Encounter located just north of Dolphin Stadium.
• This summer, guests can take advantage of an added dining option: SeaWorld’s All-You-Care-to-Eat Picnic, Memorial Day weekend, and most Saturdays in July and August at the park’s Nautilus Pavilion. The menu includes barbecued chicken, corn-on-the-cob, ranch-style beans, hot dogs and more.
Summer Nights Dates, Hours, General Information • Summer Nights at SeaWorld, Saturdays and Sundays May 23–June 7; nightly June 13–Aug. 30 and Sept. 5–7.
• 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. May 25; Aug. 17–21; Aug. 24–28; Sept. 7
• 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. May 31; June 7; June 14–18; June 22–25
• 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. May 23–24; May 30; June 6; June 13; June 19–21; June 26–30; July 1–Aug 16; Aug. 22–23; Aug. 29–30
Admission to SeaWorld • Single-day SeaWorld admission: $65 for ages
10 and older; $55 for ages 3–9. Parking is $12 for cars and $15 for RVs and campers.
• 2009 SeaWorld Fun Card: Allows visitors to come back to the park again and again for the rest of 2009 for one great price (not valid for admission May 24, July 3–4 or Sept. 6). 2009 SeaWorld Fun Card: $65 for ages 10 and older; $55 for ages 3–9.
• “Here’s to the Heroes”: Allows active duty military, active reservists, U.S. Coast Guard, National Guardsmen and up to three of their direct dependents one free single-day admission to SeaWorld through the end of 2009.
• AAA: Now through Aug. 31, 2009, AAA members can show their card or use a promo code to get two adult Fun Cards for just $119, an $11 savings. Limit three Fun Card two-packs per purchase. Also, May 23–Sept 7, 2009, AAA members can save on single-day admission with the AAA Adults at Kid’s Price with Kids ½ Price offer. Discount available online at www.seaworldsandiego.com, by phone or at the park.
• Southern California CityPass: Admission to SeaWorld San Diego, Disneyland, Disney’s California Adventure, Knott’s Berry Farm and the San Diego Zoo or Wild Animal Park for $259 adults and $219 for children 3–9.
• Southern California 2-Park Flex Ticket: Entry to SeaWorld San Diego and Universal Studios Hollywood for up to 14 consecutive days for $104 adults and $94 for children 3–9.
• San Diego 3 for 1 Pass: Admission to SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park for $115 for ages 10 and older; $92 for ages 3–9.
SeaWorld San Diego is one of 10 Worlds of Discovery operated by Busch Entertainment Corporation, the family entertainment division of Anheuser-Busch InBev. Other Worlds of Discovery include SeaWorld parks in Orlando, Fla. and San Antonio; Busch Gardens Africa in Tampa, Fla. and Busch Gardens Europe in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pa. near Philadelphia; Aquatica, SeaWorld’s water park in Orlando; and water parks Adventure Island in Tampa and Water Country USA in Williamsburg. Worlds of Discovery, based in Orlando, play host to more than 25 million guests each year and employ more than 21,000 people nationwide.
Leaders in conservation and education, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Discovery Cove care for the largest animal collection in the world and offer an education Web site especially for students and teachers at www.seaworld.org. Information on the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund is at www.swbg-conservationfund.org. General park information is found at www.seaworld.com.
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