Movies I Want to See: Paul

I am not a big science fiction fan. The only out-of-this-world films I enjoy watching are anything relating to Star Wars. Usually, most intergalactic films involve aliens invading Earth and destroying things as the human race struggles to stay alive. Other types of sci-fi films involve humans in outer space traveling to other worlds or drifting through the universe within a spaceship or other modes of interstellar transport. Needless to say these films just leave me either uninterested or complaining about the lack of originality. However, there is one science fiction movie coming out in the near future that I am very excited about. That would be the new sci-fi comedy ‘Paul’; which will be invading theaters everywhere this Friday. Thus, it is with a burst of positive energy that I say:

I want to travel to movie theaters and Meet ‘Paul’

Why do I want to see this movie, you might ask? Well, for one thing it’s a comedy. There aren’t many intergalactic movies that are designed to be humorous. True, I have seen sci-fi comedies before. I am happy to say that I own the Mel Brooks-helmed comedy Spaceballs and I have seen the over-the-top alien invasion spoof Mars Attacks. But, in the case of the film Paul, I am very fascinated and excited by the trailers and premise; which involve buddies Graeme Willy and Clive Gollings, played by Simon Pegg and Nick Frost respectfully, traveling to Area 51 and eventually meeting the titular space traveler with the jolly voice of Seth Rogen.

The main reason I want to see this movie is that it features two of my favorite British performers: Simon Pegg and Nick Frost. I enjoy the pair’s past work together in Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. And these two films are very unique as they are basically spoofs of specific genres of film. Shaun of the Dead, which was released in 2004, is a British take on zombie films; and, Hot Fuzz, which was released in 2007, is a spoof of buddy-cop films. And both of these films feature storylines that are solid and exciting. In Shaun of the dead, Pegg plays Shaun, who has to get his life together, while he and his friend Ed, played by Frost, fend off a plague of zombies. And in Hot Fuzz, Pegg plays Nicolas Angel, an unwavering police officer who sets off to figure out who is responsible for committing gruesome murders; and he is accompanied by PC Danny Butterman; played by Frost with great eagerness. Both of these spoofs features great chemistry between Simon Pegg and Nick Frost; so, needless to say, it will be great seeing them together on the big screen once again in 'Paul'. Plus, the two also wrote the screenplay for the film; subsequently leading me to be even more excited.

Along with Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, I am also looking forward to seeing the film’s intelligently-casted supporting performers. Playing the lead Agent sent to apprehend Paul, is the straight-faced Jason Bateman; who I’ve always enjoyed been seen in movies and television- specifically as lead character Michael Bluth in the acclaimed but short-lived Arrested Development. Also, I am excited to see Bill Hader, my favorite current cast members of Saturday Night Live, playing one of Bateman’s Agent Zoil’s henchmen. This is very significant as I always enjoy seeing Bill Hader cast in anything as he can portray either the straight man in a sketch or film as well as playing a comical character; such as Stefon on SNL or Officer Slater in Greg Motolla's previous hit comedy Superbad. Also, I am very excited to see Kristen Wiig, who I think is very talented, cast in a significant role; as she can be seen alongside Pegg and Frost in many of the film’s clips and previews. In addition, I am excited to see many other familiar faces cast in the film as well; specifically Jane Lynch, Jeffery Tambor, and Sigourney Weaver. And even though I am not the world’s biggest fan of Seth Rogen, I still think it’s a clever idea to cast him as the voice of Paul; as hearing his jovial voice come out of a computer-generated and cartoonish alien is very funny. In short, the cast alone is worthy of anyone’s money and time.

I am also excited to see this film as it is helmed by Greg Motolla; who previously served as the director of the 2007 coming-of-age comedy Superbad. Along with Bill Hader, Motolla’s hit comedy introduced wide audiences to a new group of performers; specifically Michael Cera, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, and Emma Stone-- thus eventually leading them to star in their own films. We have seen Michael Cera be charming and romantic in Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist; which indicated that he can carry a romantic lead role on his own. Jonah Hill got wild and went on a crazy ride as he attempts to get troubled musician Aldous Snow portrayed by Russel Brand, to perform at an important concert in Get Him to the Greek; which subsequently proved that he can act and evoke laughs in a mainstream road-trip comedy. Christopher Mintz-Plasse was determined to emerge victorious in a fierce role-playing competition in Role Models; which resulted in him gaining more notice and fans. And Emma Stone received praise for her performance as a high school girl who must deal with the consequences of telling a white lie about losing her virginity to a college student in the teen comedy Easy A. Thus, Superbad and Greg Motolla provided a launching-pad for these performers; leading them to recieve box office victory and loyal fanhood. Hopefully, Greg Motolla’s sci-fi comedy will expose Simon Pegg and Nick Frost to even more people and we’ll get to see them cast in more films and gain a wider fan base.

But the biggest reason I am excited to see ‘Paul’; is that it just looks like it could be a fun movie. Being as it is a comedy, I am expecting humorous dialogue, strong humorous performances, and many tributes to multiple well-known films. And being a film enthusiast, I would be excited in counting the numerous references. Henceforth, ‘Paul’ looks like it could an entertaining movie to see in theaters. Thus I am looking forward to eventually seeing the intergalactic comedy and reviewing it for my blog. After all, a movie about best friends going on an exciting adventure is definitely up my alley.

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com

That's Nater-Tainment Special Report: Zach Galifianakis Hosts Saturday Night Live for the Second Time

As I have said in a previous post, I always enjoy staying up late on Saturday nights so I could the ninety minute comedy block that is Saturday Night Live. It is very fun to see who is hosting the evening’s showcase and interacting with the talented cast. And last night was no exception as I was excited to see The Hangover’s comedic powerhouse Zach Galifianakis take the stage at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City. Though I was a little worried that the writers would underuse him just like they did last year; as I recall that they featured him in many underwritten sketches last March. However, I was very pleased that head writer Seth Meyers and the show’s writers and cast featured the hilarious comedian-turned-actor in unique and intriguing comedic pieces. And Galifianakis himself gave a hilarious and distinctive performance throughout the evening that enabled me to laugh heavily and smile widely. Henceforth, it is with delight that I proclaim:

Zach Galifianakis’ Second Saturday Night Live Hosting Stint Was Very Funny and Enjoyable

The show’s hilarious opening sketch appeared at first to be a program dedicated to covering March Madness. However, it ultimately proved not to be a case as the sports anchors, portrayed by veteran cast members Jason Sudekis and Kenan Thompson, were using the well-known Bracket System to outline which personalities were the most crazy in the world. They covered foreign figures like Omar Kadafi, who was played by Fred Armisen, and people in Hollywood; which included Academy Award Winner Melissa Leo, who was played with such extreme zaniness by the talented Kristen Wiig, and leading up to Charlie Sheen, portrayed with great zest and lunacy by the skilled Bill Hader. The opening proved to be one of the best of the season and it looked like the show was off to a great start.

The night then proceeded to Zach Galifianakis monologue; which featured greatly-crafted and offbeat stand-up. The talented performer buzzed creative one-liners and then proceeded to give a mock-serious presentation on many of his concerns going on in the world. The entire piece consisted of Galifianakis sporting attire resembling that of Little Orphan Annie and lip-syncing to the song “Tomorrow” from that particular musical; all the while going through jokes written on the giant pages of a large notepad on an easel. The whole routine and presentation was utterly hilarious and original; and I was laughing and cheering throughout. This show was definitely going to be fun.


Image taken from http://thumbnails.hulu.com/130/50131130/248567_512x288_generated.jpg

And the show’s amusement would not stop. The first sketch was a spoof of the CBS talk show The Talk; with Kristen Wiig portraying the show’s host Julie Chen. The other female cast members portrayed the other hosts of the show; Leah Remini (Abby Elliot), Sharon Osbourne (Nasim Pedrad), and Sara Gilbert (Vanessa Bayer). But Zach Galifianakis stole the whole sketch as an audience member that was a fan of similar talk show The View; and felt that his birthday was ruined as he was actually attending a different program. The whole sketch proved to be very funny as Bill Hader portrayed a flamboyantly-dressed Steven Tyler and the piece’s ultimate punchline was very well-timed; as was Galifianakis’ performance.

Other highlights during the course of the evening included a filmed commercial featuring several of the cast and Zach Galifianakis portraying different types of modern day stand-up comedians highlighting a comedy showcase on DVD; as well as a pre-taped piece in which Galifianakis is looking for a new assistant—which was very interesting as all the applicants happened to be children. Galifianakis even gave laughs in a Scared Straight sketch in which he actually played second filled to Kenan Thompson’s inmate character Lorenzo McIntosh. But nevertheless, he stole the sketch as a Hannibal-Lector-type inmate; complete with being wheeled in on a similar contraption. Galifianakis also was the highlight of a Canadian talk show sketch; which featured the mild-mannered anchors, portrayed by Fred Armisen and Kristen Wiig, respecting Hollywood celebrities’ private lives. Just hearing our host’s over-exaggerated Canadian accent was hilarious as well as the sight of him in hat and scarf. I also got a a few chuckles out of the last sketch of the night; in which Zach played the cowardly captain of The Titanic who attempted to disguise himself as a woman so he could get on a life boat. While the material was nothing completely special, his performance was very funny and the cast diid well with the material as well. `

Image taken from http://www.blogcdn.com/www.tvsquad.com/media/2011/03/zach-g-snl-300-nbc.jpg

Besides Zach Galifianakis, there were other parts of the show I enjoyed. One such highlight was Kristen Wiig playing Julie Taymor, the ousted director of the Spider Man musical, who sang about her and her musical’s troubles; as well as constantly bring up the fact that she directed the Broadway version of The Lion King. I also enjoyed both performances of the evening’s musical guest Jessie J; whose soulful crooning was a welcome treat from a lot of the rap artists that were on the show this season. It was also nice to see B.O.B. taking part in Jessie J’s first performance; seeing as he’s been involved with a lot of musicians this past year.

There were, of course, some downsides throughout the evening as well. There was a sketch where Zach Galifianakis and Kristen Wiig played parents who were straying to tell their kids truth about their dog’s death. The whole piece felt awkward in its writing and execution and it was dealing with a subject that wasn't exactly funny. I also do feel that, while Galifianakis was very funny in it, the Scared Straight sketch has been done multiple times and that Kenan Thompson’s performance is nothing particularly exciting or original.

However, the show was definitely a nice change of pace from this season and I’m happy to see Zach Galifianakis used very well tonight. He was definitely one of my favorite hosts this season and he definitely blended in well with this cast; unlike some of the other hosts of the season--- particularly Scarlett Johansson, Robert DeNiro, and Jesse Eisenberg. Thus, Zach Galifianakis gave a great performance last night and I am definitely looking forward to seeing Sir Elton John host on April 2. So, thank you Zach Galifianakis and the cast of Saturday Night Live for entertaining me last night; complete with laughs, fun, and memories.

Coming Soon to My Blog.....

In case you are all wondering what writings I am planning to have posted on my blog, you need not to wonder anymore. In the near future, I intend to have the following articles up for your reading:

1. A review of this weekend's episode of Saturday Night Live; which will be hosted by Zach Galifianakis (I will have it up Sunday afternoon)

2. An article about why I want to see the upcoming sci-fi comedy Paul.

3. I will examine the trailer for this summer's action blockbuster X-Men: First Class

Plus, later this month and into April, I will express my feelings concerning The Office without Steve Carell as well as my thoughts on other shows on television (NBC's Community is Great!!!). And whenever an interesting trailer for an upcoming film I want to see hits the web, I will post it. So stay tuned to my blog because there's alot on the way. More Nater-Tainment is coming!!!!

Spotlight Video: Will Ferrell and Friends Sing "Goodnight Saigon"

Will Ferrell leads an all-star cast in "Goodnight Saigon" - JoBlo Video

TodayI bring you one of the last great sketches from the current era of Saturday Night Live. On the Season Finale of Saturday Night Live's 34 Season, Will Ferrell lead a star-studded musical performance of the classic Billy Joel song "Goodnight Saigon." Whoever wrote this sketch deserves nothing but praise as it starts out as a simple piece and then bursts into an awe inspiring performance. See if you can recognize all of the surprise cameos! Trust me, this is a great sketch and it's a shame that they don't do anything this amazing on the late night program anymore.

Trailer Spotlight: Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

Today, I bring you the trailer for the next installment in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. This May, Johnny Depp reprises his role of Jack Sparrow as he goes on a quest to find the Fountain of Youth. The blockbuster film looks to be a see-sailing good time as our favorite pirate will battle zombies, more pirates and other perils. Johnny Dep seems to be in high-form once again and Geoffrey Rush returns as well to play Barbosa. Like the other films this movies appears to be full of adventure and I'm sure it will be a lot of fun. So stay tuned for May 20!

Trailer Spotlight: The Hangover Part II

And now, a new feature on That's Nater-Tainment! I like to call this Trailer Spotlight. For the first installment, Iam posting the teaser for The Hangover Part II. The movie opens Memorial Day Weekend and it lookslike its going to be another wild ride with our comedic heroes. Check it out. I can't wait to see this movie!!!! Also, keep an eye out. I'll be posting more trailers and more online videos over time as this will be a new reoccurring feature. That's right! That's Nater-Tainment is going even more viral! Stay tune for more online fun!

From the Mind of Nate: My Assessment of The 83rd Academy Awards

Well, the 83rd Annual Academy Awards have come and gone; and overall, it was three hours of a mixed bag. First of all, I would just like to say that it was wonderful to see a majority of the people who I wanted to see win their respective awards. For example, I was happy to see Christian Bale receive the award for Best Supporting actor for his groundbreaking portrayal of former-boxing-champion-but-unstable Dicky Ekland. Also, even though I did not see Black Swan, I have always liked the elegant and endearing Natalie Portman; so, needless to say I was very glad to see her triumphantly receive the celebrated award for Best Actress. And, of course, I was very happy to see Colin Firth deservingly receive the award for Best Actor for his tremendous performance as the long-suffering-but-endearing Duke Albert in the esteemed film The King’s Speech; which also more-than-rightfully emerged victorious as the victor in the Best Picture category. This is very monumental as this is the first time in ages that my most preferred film of the year went on to receive the Best Picture honor at the Academy Awards. However, not everything was pitch-perfect at this year’s gala; as I have a few significant issues with the telecast. So without further ado, I would like to present:

My Problems with The 83rd Annual Academy Awards

1. I was not very happy that Melissa Leo won the Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in The Fighter. Don’t get me wrong, I thought she did a decent playing the mother of Mark Wahlberg’s Micky Ward and Christian Bale’s Dicky Ekland. However, throughout her performance, she did come off as controlling and shrill; as she would constantly impose her influence on Wahlberg’s Micky Ward as she refused him from seeing Amy Adams’ Charlene Fleming as well as demanding that she not be removed as his manager. Her performance in The Fighter was in no way as graceful or benevolent as Helena Bonham Carter’s Elizabeth; who supported her husband throughout the whole film and wanted nothing more than to restore his confidence as he always grew closer to inheriting the Royal Throne; which he was very afraid of. It should also be mentioned that Melissa Leo was not very professional during her acceptance speech; as she was not focused at all when speaking—she basically just jumped from one subject to another at the blink-of-an-eye. Furthermore, amidst her jumbled words, she let loose a swear word; thus making her speech as well as herself appear even more ridiculous. I also want to point out the silly sight of her walking off stage with the esteemed Kirk Douglas’ cane. That sight was just plain nonsensical and I was scratching my head while trying to figure out why she was doing so. Nevertheless, Melissa Leo may have won an Academy Award; but I don’t think her performance on the big screen was as great as Helena Bonham Carter’s.

Image taken from http://blog.newsok.com/bamsblog/files/2011/02/oscars-2011-melissa-leo-accepts.jpg

2. I also thought that the whole ceremony was completely dull and lacked a lot of energy. Usually, there are some memorable comical moments during the Academy Awards. Who could forget last year when Ben Stiller came on stage as a Na’vi from Avatar; complete with the yellow eyes and blue full-body make-up? Also, in 2007, I remember Will Ferrell and Jack Black singing about being a comical performer not being nominated for any awards and being joined by actor John C. Riley on stage. These moments were very funny and memorable and offered more excitement to the evening. This year, we had nothing like that. Yes, Russell Brand and Former Oscar Host Billy Crystal made appearances, but they didn’t say or do anything memorable. In other words, it would have been nice to have something out-of-the-ordinary occur. But, I guess this year was just business as usual for The Academy Awards as this year they just recognized the evolution of the Awards Ceremony itself; a feat that has been done during ceremonies past.

Image taken from http://static.tvguide.com/MediaBin/Galleries/Celebrities/S_Z/Wi_Wp/Will_Ferrell/1/will-ferrell29.jpg

3. And this brings me to the performances by this year’s hosts: James Franco and Anne Hathaway. First off, I just want to say that I thought that Hathaway gave a straight performance as host; as her costume changes were very nice and interesting. I also thought that her song aimed at Hugh Jackman was a fascinating moment and she was a good vocalist; but overall, I thought the concept was a bit silly and not completely unforgettable. However, I do think that James Franco’s performance as Co-Host was very flat and underwhelming. Every time he spoke, there was no tough of flair to his words and his overall presentation was devoid of any dynamic or emotion. And, anytime he tried to make a comical statement, it came off as unsettling or confusing. I remember Franco listing the titles of films he found inappropriate as well as coming out wearing a dress after Hathaway performed her song. These moments were cornier rather than hilarious and I just was not feeling any real excitement throughout the whole event.

Image taken from http://www.awardsdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/02_83TC_0077.jpg

That being said, there were a couple moments I found noteworthy. I did enjoy Randy Newman’s performance of the eventual Academy Award winning song “We Belong Together” from the deserving Best Picture winning Toy Story 3. I also enjoyed the children’s chorus of PS22’S beautiful singing of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” during the show’s conclusion; a presentation I found to be very remarkable and heartwarming. But, aside from these performances, I found the overall feeling of the evening to be very bland and very-less-than-impressive. I just hope that next year’s Academy Awards improve a lot; both humor-wise and production-wise. Maybe the Academy could invite more comical or show-stopping performers to anchor the program. Perhaps Robin Williams or Ricky Gervais could host and perform some hard-hitting stand-up comedy. Or maybe multitalented people like Neil Patrick Harris or Amy Adams could do a full-hosting stint that feature well-choreographed musical numbers. Maybe former hosts Ellen DeGeneres or Billy Crystal could return to the stage to entertain and present. That way, the festivities would not only be very entertaining; but also spectacular. That way, it wouldn’t just be Hollywood personnel lighting up; it would also be everybody at home.

(EDIT: To see Will Ferrell and Jack Black's Musical performance from the 2007 Academy Awards, Click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5JAPkvnyso)

E-mail me at thatsnatertainment@gmx.com