Thursday, July 29, 2010

Thor Trailer Released


Even though the Thor movie is a year away we have been given a special treat. Originally shown to the attendees at ComicCon now everyone has the pleasure to see the extended trailer. The nearly 6-minutes trailer gives you a good idea what the plot is. The film stars Chris Hemsworth, who played Capt. Kirk's father in the beginning of last years Star Trek, as Thor. Hemsworth looks the part to a T (no pun intended) and I'm totally psyched about it. In my opinion, he is now the third actor to perfectly portray a comic book character in terms of physical looks. The other two are Hugh Jackman for Wolverine and Robert Downey Jr. for Tony Stark/Iron Man. Anthony Hopkins plays Odin, King of Asgard and Thor's father. Thor is set to be released May 2011 so we'll have to wait a while...boooo! The film is directed by actor/director Kenneth Branagh. Check out the trailer section watch it.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Twilight: Eclipse


Before I explain my thoughts regarding the film I was being a good husband and took my wife to see the film. Big whoop! Wanna fight about it? (Anybody guess what current TV show that's from?) Looking back on it I should have just told her to sucker punch me in my balls every 20 minutes because it would have at least distracted me from the pain I was experiencing watching the movie.

I kept on hearing and reading how Eclipse was a good movie and by far the best of the series. While that may be the case it does not say much for the series overall. Eclipse was filled with cheesy and bad dialogue which made the movie drag on forever. There truly is no emotion behind the script, the characters, or the actors playing them. They are simply there and doing a job in which they're getting paid a shit load for. The action was okay at best but somewhat anti-climatic at the end. Everything I saw was so uninspired, uncreative, and predictable. I mean every time Edward and Jacob were exchanging heated words with each other it seemed like they were going to poke each other with their boners for Bella. It seems like there should have been a fight between those two guys because it would have made the story more interesting. There would have been more conflict and emotion to the story.

I honestly feel that the true fans are getting cheated out here. I 'm calling it now...10 years from now the young Twihards are going to mature and recognize how corny the series is. I heavily doubt the books were like that. From what I've heard they are written and depicted in a much different light....a better light! This is typical when a book becomes a movie and often understandable because its almost impossible to fit everything into 2 hours. However, it makes me wonder how/why a literary series with such popularity can't seem to translate well to the movie screen? If I were a fan I'd be pissed with what has been delivered. In some cases fans may not be disappointed with the series and that's totally cool for them. But like I said, I think they are being cheated.

What I really hate is having to deal with the people (on websites in particular) who hate on me for hating these movies. They come to the series' defense so quickly and say I'm the ignorant hater who can't let the movies just be. I'm sorry but those people are truly disillusioned. I honestly believe that they know the movies are shit so they become extremely defensive when something is said. People call these Twilight movies gay, I'll be honest I've said that myself, but in reality it's not gay. They're just very bad.

Overall: C-

By the way...do you see how emotionless they are in that photo? Now, picture that for two hours.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

30 Great Movie Characters - Part III


10. Forrest Gump (Forrest Gump)- I think its safe to say that halfway through the movie everyone fell in love with Forrest Gump. Yes, he wasn’t the smartest person but what he lacked in intelligence he more than made up with heart, courage, kindness, and love. One thing that I always liked about Forrest was his life experience. Knowing that he was somewhat mentally challenged (and physically at one point) he did not let it impede on the type of life he wished to live. He put 110% into any activity he took part in. As a result, he became famous, successful, and rich. Along with Rocky, Forrest Gump lived the American dream...you all to do is believe and try.

Best Scene Saving his fellow soldiers from an air raid attack in Vietnam.

Best Quote- “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”


9. Ferris Bueller (Ferris Bueller’s Day Off)- Okay, if you tell me that you never tried Ferris’ techniques to fake being sick and stay home from school you’re a liar. I vividly recall trying them out when I was in elementary school. Did it work? Fuck no! But it was worth a shot because Ferris was so convincing. I think everyone in their own way wishes they could be Ferris Bueller in high school. Not only was he popular but he was talk of the school and had a smoking hot girl friend. Ferris was a smart little bastard who was always three steps ahead of administrator Edward Rooney. For any high school student I think that is a pleasurable thought.

Best Scene- Mysteriously working his way onto a parade float and singing “Danke Schoen” by Wayne Newton and “Twist and Shout” by The Beatles.

Best Quote- “Life moves pretty fast. You don’t stop and look around you once in a while, you could miss it.” Other words of wisdom.


8. Travis Bickle (Taxi Driver)- Travis Bickle is a man sick in the head. On the outside he seems like a quiet, nice guy who minds his business. On the inside Travis is a psychopath who is disgusted with society. He hates the filth, greed, and sex that plagues the very streets he drives. Moreover, Travis is weird and obsessive. His interpretation of a good date is taking a woman to dirty movie. His obsession centers around a 13-year old prostitute who believe it’s his duty to save her. Travis Bickle is one of DeNiro’s best characters and has become an iconic figure for film lovers.

Best Scene- The ending where he goes on a shooting spree killing a pimp and clients. This is followed up by Travis pointing a “gun” to his own head and “pulling the trigger”. That scene clearly represents his psychopathic behavior.

Best Quote- “You talkin' to me? You talkin' to me? You talkin' to me? Then who the hell else are you talking... you talking to me? Well I'm the only one here. Who the fuck do you think you're talking to? Oh yeah? OK.”


7. Vito Corleone (The Godfather) – Here’s a man who represents the Machiavellian philosophy. Through fear he obtained respect. Out of respect he was feared. He is the definition of the word patriarch and he is most beloved by his family. Vito set the bar for how a mafia gangster should correctly handle his business: efficiently, decisively, calculated, and most of all he wasn’t arrogant or let his temper get in the way unlike Sonny. Everything he ever did was for his family, both of them, which is another reason he earned the name of Don. Most importantly, Marlon Brando provided us with the best performance of his career and one of the best characters in the history of cinema.

Best Scene- Slapping a crying Johnny Fontane in the face screaming at him, “You can act like a man!” Also, when he was in retirement and informed Michael how his enemies were going to come at him. That is a man of brilliance.

Beat Quote- “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse.”


6. Indiana Jones (Raiders of the Lost Ark)- One of my earliest heroes. Indiana Jones lived an adventurous life filled with uncertain dangers but that never stopped him. He is another hero who is pure of heart and soul. Dr. Jones showed us that you don’t have to be a super-hero in order to save the day. All he needed some was a whip, a gun, his intelligence, and a big set of balls to get the job done. I’d also like to mention he had the coolest hat in the world, which completed his look. Even when it seemed his luck had run short Indy managed to pull something off whether it was through his skills, more luck, or even his charm. Finally, Indiana’s love and respect for history was what first fostered my own passion for it, so thanks.

Best Scene- Any scene that’s playing his iconic theme music.

Best Quote- “It’s not the years, honey-it’s the mileage.”



5. The Joker (The Dark Knight)- Michael Caine’s Alfred described The Joker perfectly. He said, “There are some men you just can’t reason with. Some men just want to watch the world burn.” That quote accurately represents the type of person The Joker really is and we have Heath Ledger to thank for that. The Joker would be just as happy to blow up a building with thousand of people in it, as he would be lighting fire works. He has no sense of honor, no moral code, or any true reason to do the things he does. He just does things and as a viewer watching it will make you feel uncomfortable. As he said himself, The Joker is an “agent of chaos” who loves anarchy because it feeds his black soul.

Best Scene- Undoubtedly, his disappearing pencil “magic trick”. No one saw that coming.

Best Quotes- “Do I really look like a guy with a plan? You know what I am? I'm a dog chasing cars. I wouldn't know what to do with one if I caught it. I just... do things.” “I’m an agent of chaos.” And “This city deserves a better class of criminals and I’m gonna give it to them.”


4. Hannibal Lecter (Silence of the Lambs)- Beware anyone with the first name of Hannibal. The Romans had a problem with a Hannibal and so did everyone else in the Silence of the Lambs. Aside from Dr. Lecter’s homicidal and cannibalistic desires he’s an extremely dangerous man. His vast intellect and perceptiveness enables him to tap into someone’s mind allowing him to dissect their inner thoughts. It seems that Hannibal enjoys toying with his victims more so then the act of killing them. Even though Dr. Lecter is a psychopath he is a refined one with lavish tastes in culinary (mammal and human alike), classical music, and art. Much like Agent Clarice Starling or Special Agent Will Graham (Red Dragon), if you pose to be intriguing, a challenge, or unique to him Hannibal Lecter can be a formidable ally who will help you find what you seek. But don’t become too trustworthy for he is still a killer.

Best Scene- Carving off a guards face and putting it over his own in order to escape his prison via ambulance.

Best Quotes- "A census taker once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice chianti."


3. James Bond (Goldfinger)- The one and only, Bond. James Bond. 007 is by far the godfather of all spies and spy movies. He set the bar so high that very few have been able to reach it since his debut. Another personal childhood favorite James Bond is simply the man. He’s well cultured, highly intelligent, knowledgeable on various things, a charmer, radiates coolness and a suave manner, and is the biggest pussy magnet ever. I mean the women in these films practically throw their wet snatch at him and he doesn’t even care if he’s fucking the bad girl. It’s all done for the sake of the mission and Queen and Country. Moreover, 007 has the coolest spy toys ever, which makes his job more awesome. Even without the toys James is trained in various forms of combat and has a knack for getting out of sticky situations. (Although there have been many versions of Bond over the years, all with their own following, I am die-hard fan and a purist. Therefore, I only recognize Sean Connery as the true James Bond. He was/still is the best. Fuck you Roger Moore!)

Best Scenes- While making out with a girl he sees an on coming thug in the reflection of her eyes. As if his martial arts moves weren’t enough this scoundrel attempts to reach for James gun while in a tub. 007 slaps a fan into the bath tub and watches him fry.

Best Quotes- “Bond. James Bond.” And “My dear girl, there are some things that just aren't done, such as drinking Dom Perignon '53 above the temperature of 38 degrees Fahrenheit. That's just as bad as listening to the Beatles without earmuffs!”


2. Tyler Durden (Fight Club)- He told you the rules of Fight Club and then set your soul free. He told you that our meaningless jobs didn’t define who we are and then blew up several buildings. As he said himself he is everything we are not. What we fear to do or say he does with the greatest of ease. He is our inner truth represented by a monster with god like features. He show’s no fear of life, death, or the future. He only shows acceptance for what is to come. He is a cool, sleek talking guy that does what he wants when he wants without care. He isn’t nice. He isn’t the type of guy you want to take home to your parents. Why? Because he’ll pee in your soup and then splice a picture of a big dick in your parents 1973 wedding reel. You can’t deny his leadership abilities, his philosophical outlook on life, his sense of style, and skills for making bombs out of soap. He is Tyler Durden!

Best Scene- When Tyler encourages Lou, the owner of the bar they fight in, to take out his frustrations on his face. 30 seconds later Tyler’s face is completely covered with blood and he’s just laughing.

Best Quote- "You're not your job. You're not how much money you have in the bank. You're not the car you drive. You're not the contents of your wallet. You're not your fucking khakis. You're the all-singing, all-dancing crap of the world."


1. Darth Vadar (Star Wars-prequels)- By far he is the most feared villain in the history cinema and within the Star Wars galaxy. Any true Star Wars fan feared Lord Vadar at one point in their childhood. There are several factors that worked in Vadar’s favor that made him so feared and yet so popular: his tall dark presence which metaphorically spoke of the blackness in his soul, his limitless power of the Dark Side, the constant sound of that creepy respirator, and that expressionless mask which made him impossible to read. Whether he was angry, sad, or in a rare brief state of pleasure you could never tell through that mask. It hid his emotions while simultaneously representing who he was…dark and tortured, which in turn scared everyone. Another factor that has made Darth Vadar so great is his voice. The deep voice of James Earl Jones perfectly suited the Sith Lord and added more depth the character. Even though he may be merciful from time to time do not be fooled. After all he doesn’t have to be near you to kill you.

Best Scenes- Choking out an ignorant non-believer of The Force by simply closing his thumb and index finger together. Also, anyone of his entrances, which are always accompanied by his legendary music.

Best Quote- “I find your lack of faith disturbing.”

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Hangover Sequel Is Set In...


ComingSoon.net has just confirmed that the sequel for The Hangover will be in Thailand! There were rumors that it was going to be in Mexico, which would have worked just as well, but director Todd Phillips decided on Thailand. I think this is a great idea because the culture is vastly different and whatever trouble the guys get into would be completely out of the ordinary for them. I foresee Alan unknowingly hooking up with a tranny! Ha!

Monday, July 19, 2010

New Trailer Posted: The Social Network


I just posted a new trailer called The Social Network. If you haven't seen or heard anything about the film it focuses on the creation of Facebook and person/people behind it. If you don't know who created the social networking site that the entire world has come live and breathe by his name is Mark Zuckerberg. Zuckerberg created Facebook back in 2003/2004 as sophomore at Harvard. (I know crazy shit right...just a sophomore.) Zuckerberg is played by Jesse Esienberg (Zombieland) and as you can see from the trailer this is not some light and happy go lucky film. It's somewhat dark and very serious, which is extremely fitting since David Fincher (Se7en, Fight Club) directed it.

Some people may think a movie about Facebook is stupid or too soon. I disagree. Facebook is the biggest social network site in the world. It literally changed the way people communicate and stay in touch with each other. It changed the way certain businesses are run. It changed how people meet each other. It changed EVERYTHING. Therefore, it's only appropriate that a movie has been created which illustrates its story. If you have any questions or comments you can leave it on my Facebook page ha! No, I'm serious about that please do!

Sunday, July 18, 2010

30 Great Movie Characters - Part II


20. Jules Winnflied (Pulp Fiction)- Jules is on this list because he has a wallet that says “Bad Mother Fucker” on it and that is a title he certainly lives up to. Jules is more than just an assassin He’s a smart, philosophic, religious assassin with a deep soul. When you listen to the conversations he has with Vincent Vega (John Travolta) you will recognize that he is a perceptive man with a cool looking hairdo. Jules always maintains a sense of coolness, confidence, and professionalism. However, he would just as easily shoot you as he would talk to you.

Best Scene- Berating Bret for screwing over Marcellus Wallace and then delivering his customary last words to his victim.

Best Quote- “Ezekiel 25:17 - "The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the iniquities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men. Blessed is he, who in the name of charity and good will, shepherds the weak through the valley of darkness, for he is truly his brother's keeper and the finder of lost children. And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who would attempt to poison and destroy my brothers. And you will know my name is the Lord when I lay my vengeance upon thee."



19. The Terminator (The Terminator)- The Terminator is vastly different than any other villain in cinema history. While any other villain may get tired, hungry, or reasoned with this is not the case with the T-800. He, or it, has no sense of compassion, mercy, or any emotions. It simply eliminates its intended target when it can. Arnold’s representation of the killing machine was executed perfectly and his gigantic presence breathed life into to the unstoppable killing machine. The Terminator’s strikes fear into its victim’s hearts and lets it be known that he is the bringer of death.

Best Scene- The massacre at the police station. The Terminator kills 20 police officers effortlessly.

Best Quote- “I’ll be back.”



18. James “Droz” Andrews (PCU)- Now, you must be thinking that there are several other characters who are better than this guy. In some ways, yes there are, but in other ways not really. Droz is a very important character because he wasn’t scared to upset the establishment. When he saw an opportunity to make a joke out of a serious situation he took it. He proved that although people are uptight and politically correct on the outside they really desire to let loose, party, and enjoy life. Not only is he a partier and a prankster but a thinker and good leader. Most importantly, Droz showed a new generation of high school kids and young collegians what college has the potential to be like. He showed viewers that college can be the BEST four years of a persons like and for that he’s the man.

Best Scene: Throwing 100lbs of meat on a peaceful vegan protest. Some would argue it was more than 100lbs. I would agree.

Best Quote: “We’re not gonna protest!” – In reality, the entire movie has great quotes so take your pick and share if you like.



17. Ace Ventura (Ace Ventura Pet Detective)- Solving human crimes doesn’t interest Mr. Ventura. Due to his respect, love, and understanding of animals Ace has taken it upon himself to help save them from the evil clutches of humans. On the outside Ace Ventura looks like a guy who may be certifiably insane and rocks a mutated Elvis haircut. In reality, he is exactly that type of person. However, his whacky personality provides a great illusion towards others. Ace is extremely smart and perceptive. His attention to detail is better than most cops, which allowes him to consistently embarrass the local law enforcement when they can’t put the piece of the puzzle together.

Best Scene: Posing as a mentally challenged person in order to gain entry into a psychiatric ward. The picture above.

Best Quote- Once again to each their own. Mine…

Reporter
: [skeptically] Where is Snowflake?

Ace Ventura
: Why do you care about Snowflake? Do you know him? Does he call you at home?

Ace Ventura: Do you have a dorsal fin? To train ze dolphin you must zink like ze dolphin! You must be getting inside ze dolphin's head. I am saying to Snowflake, "Akay!... Akay Akay Akay?" und he is saying "AKay Akay!" und he is up on ze tail "Eeeeeeeeee!" und you can quote him!

[Ace spits]



16. Luke Skywalker (Star Wars IV-VI)- Luke Skywalker is another traditional hero. Unlike Maximus, we see Luke’s evolution as character from start to finish. In the first film, he was a whinny little bitch who didn’t understand the nature of things. In Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi we see a much different Luke. He’s battle hardened and has come to understand the difficulties of life. What I always liked about Luke was that he was pure of heart. Yes, he did flirt with the Dark Side however it was his strong moral code and pure heart that allowed him to dominate Dark Vadar and the Emperor.

Best Scenes- 1) His reaction to finding out that Darth Vadar is really his father just after getting his hand chopped off. 2) Unleashing hell on Vadar when he threatens to turn Leia to the Dark Side.

Best Quote:- “I am Luke Skywalker…I’m here to rescue you!”


15. Maximus (Gladiator)- This Roman general had everything: a successful military career, legions of soldiers loyal to him, a grateful and father-like emperor, and a family. Within a small amount of time Commodus shattered his world. Maximus represents all the noble virtues of a hero: strong, courageous, smart, loyal, and a natural leader. However, Maximus is not just any ordinary hero; he’s a tragic one. The pain and suffering he endures fuels his thirst for revenge and justice. What made him so memorable as a character was his dedication to justice in the films climax.

Best Scene- Taking on 6-8 gladiators by himself and brutally butchering them to pieces. This is then followed by the cheers of the crowd, “Spaniard! Spaniard! Spaniard!”

Best Quote(s)- "My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius, commander of the Armies of the North, General ofthe Felix Legions, loyal servant to the true emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife. And I will have my vengeance, in this life or the next." And “My name is Gladiator.”



14. Patrick Bateman (American Psycho)- As weird as this may sound, if you can get passed his homicidal urges to kill and potentially eat you Patrick Batman may be one of the funniest people ever. Bateman epitomizes the yuppie generation of the 1980’s. He’s wealthy, superficial, and materialistic but he’s self-conscious and extremely obsessed with fitting in. At the same time, he can’t stand himself or the people he is surrounded by. He care’s more about his bed sheets than human life. His sick, twisted, and merciless view towards the world allows him to violently take life without regret.

Best Scenes: Dropping a chainsaw down a stairwell thus killing his fleeing victim. Also, (this one is my favorite) silently FREAKING THE FUCK OUT when his friends and colleagues like another person’s business card more than his.

Best Quotes: “I have to return some video tapes.” And the quote in the picture which starts as, "Sabrina...


13. Rocky Balboa (Rocky I-VI)- I think it goes without saying why Rocky is on this list. Rocky is more than a fighter he’s a warrior with a never give up attitude. Everything in his life stunk but that all changed when he got a shot at the title. By beating Apollo he was able to turn his whole life around. He showed everyone that determination and persistence is the key to success. His huge heart and belief in himself allowed him to climb to the top and become one of the best fighters. Even though he’s a fictional character Rocky's spirit has inspired so many people over the years and he will always remain an important figure in American pop-culture.

Best Scene- Depends on which movie: In Rocky II- the fight with Apollo and slow motion struggle to get up and beat the 10 count. Rocky IV-the training montage and fight with Ivan Drago.

Best Quotes- "Yo, Adrian! I did it!" And "Going in one more round when you don't think you can - that's what makes all the difference in your life."


12. Yoda (Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back & Return of the Jedi)- If this was 1980 and you were asked to describe the most powerful Jedi you would have NEVER described him as a 3ft tall green alien with huge ears. However, that is the case with Master Yoda who is the embodiment of The Force. He understands its philosophy and soul, which is why he is the perfect teacher. Even though he is small you should judge him by his appearance. His abilities and powers are nearly limitless but as any Jedi, Yoda is in complete control of himself and doesn’t give into fear.

Best Scene- Raising Luke’s X-Wing plane out of the swamp.

Best Quotes- “Size matters not. Judge me by my size, do you?” Also, “Fear is the path to the Dark Side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.” And, my personal favorite since these are great words of wisdom, “Do or do not…there is no try.”


11. Michael Corleone (The Godfather)- Michael Corleone is perhaps the single greatest example of character development and evolution in the history of cinema. If you were to watch The Godfather for the first time my guess is that you would not expect Michael to turn out the way he did. In the beginning of the story he’s sweet, honest, loving, and attentive. By the end of the film he’s merciless, deceptive, and extremely cunning. As the movie progresses we see Michael slowly change into a person his father never wanted him to be. What’s scarier is that Michael always had those latter qualities in him he just never used them. When the time came he assumed power and ruled like Stalin…with an iron fist. His ability to observe his surroundings and analyze the people within his business allowed him to be a great Don.

Best Scene- When Michael is out to dinner with Sollozzo and Capt. McCluskey and shoots them down in front of everyone. This is the scene where Michael metamorphosis’s occurs. One could argue that he changed when he came up with the idea to kill the men. While that is a strong example it’s his action that finally seals the deal.

Best Quotes- “It’s nothing personal Sonny…it’s strictly business.” And “Keep your friends close and enemies closer.”

Inception



Typically, I only write informal reviews for movies that suck. Well, this is NOT the case for Inception. By far Inception is the movie of summer and thus far the movie of the year. Even though it’s July I do not foresee a better film coming out. The reason why I’m writing an informal review is because this movie has such a DEEP and multilayered plot to it that there is no way for me to accurately portray my thoughts without explaining it. It has just proved to be too difficult. Furthermore, I think it's best that people walk into this movie blindly. The less the you know the better.

I will say that Inception is a movie like no other and it forces viewers to expand their own minds on the notions of dreams. The special effects, acting, action, and direction under Christopher Nolan are superb to say the least. Above all, the dialogue is where it’s at. You must pay close attention right from the start. At times you may even feel lost since there is SO much to absorb but stick with it. Inception is a very creative and thought-provoking film much like The Matrix was. One could argue that there are certain similarities between the two films. In some cases that’s true and in other’s it is not. What is completely obvious is that Nolan has truly outdone himself plain and simple. The intricacies of the story represent how creative Christopher Nolan’s mind really is. Therefore, the more times you watch this film the better you’ll understand everything. If he doesn’t receive an Oscar of some sort I’ll be truly shocked.


Again, all I’m going to say is definitely see this movie. It’s worth the money. If you can see it in IMAX it'll be even better. If you do see it and would like to discuss it or have any questions please leave a comment as I would be clarify or talk about it.


Overall: A

Friday, July 16, 2010

Actor of the Month: Marisa Tomei


Why: What’s not to love about Marisa Tomei? Since the early 90’s she has entertained us with her charm, talent, and beauty. There is no denying that the mere mention of her name casts interest among viewers. Although, Tomei’s career started in the mid 80’s she didn’t make breakout until the 90’s. Born in Brooklyn Tomei represents the classic New York girl with a tough exterior. A trait such as this made her perfect for her role in My Cousins Vinny (1992). It seemed that Tomei had so much in common with her character Lisa Vito that all she had to do was tap into that classic Brooklyn accent and attitude. As great as Joe Pesci was in that film Tomei was equally as good. She was so outstanding that she won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. Tomei would then go on to star in other films with other talented actors and actresses such as: Chaplin (Robert Downey Jr., 1992), Untamed Heart (Christian Slater, 1992), The Paper (Michael Keaton, Robert Duvall, Glenn Close, 1994), and several other films. What I’ve always liked best about Marisa Tomei is her versatility. She never sticks to one type of genre or character, which for some actors doesn’t work. For example, she wasn’t scared to star in the slasher flick The Watcher (2000). Furthermore, Tomei doesn’t have an issue with being a team player and taking a smaller role as in the romantic comedy Someone Like You (2001).

In the last three years Tomei starred in three films which I consider the front runners of her career next to My Cousin Vinny: Before the Devil Knows Your Dead (2007), The Wrestler (2008), and Cyrus (2010). Each of these films wonderfully illustrates her range. What’s particularly interesting is that in Before the Devil... and The Wrestler she decided to do nude scenes. This is something she has never done before in her career and it’s weird that she decided to go that route this late. By no means am I complaining because viewers got to fully appreciate the beauty of her body but I do wonder what made finally say, “Screw it.”

Since the 90’s people have always said Julia Roberts was America’s Sweetheart. While I can’t disagree with that statement I also can’t agree fully. Marisa Tomei has blessed us with her talents for so many years that I believe she is worthy of such as title. For reasons such as this I award Marisa Tomei July’s Actor of the Month!