I am outraged. OUTRAGED. Can you believe they are doing this again? Raising prices? Do they really think we will pay this and not say something about it!!?? No, I am not talking about rising gas prices (although that is getting really irritating, beyond irritating actually) but the ever increasing prices of going to the movies.
While it's not the first thought on many peoples minds, it certainly will be come this summer. On average, most people see a movie a month during the regular year. During the summer however, you will find yourself going more often, especially with the upcoming barrage of sequels, superhero, and general summer movies coming out. ( I think I will outline a Must-Watch list. Excellent idea Kate. Why, thank you!) Some of you might be like me and go about once a week, or more. Believe me when I say you will notice the difference in price. Note: The prices I am about to disclose are relating to AMC 20. Most other big name theaters are around the same however.
In case you don't know the ticket prices, here they are: Monday-Thursday until 3:59 everything is $5. At 4 p.m., they go up to $7.50. Friday-Sunday before noon are also $5 and $7.50 noon to 3:59. Midnight showings and Friday- Sunday at 4 are $10.
This all changed about 5 years ago. Movie attendance was the worst it had ever been and so the price of ticketing went up slowly. The first change was the move to $10 at night whereas it used to be $7.50. Following that change was the ridding of student and kid pricing. Eventually the three time periods were established. The last thing to change was the midnight showing pricing. I remember going to see 'Night at the Museum 2' at midnight thinking it was only going to be $5. We walked up to the window and when she said $10, I walked away. I would not pay that much money to see that movie.
I began a boycott of AMC 20 during their prime hours, only going during the week or the day shifts. However, this was just too hard to maintain. I have since spent more than I should have on movies that don't deserve that $10. However, in the past two years attendance to movies theaters has gone up. However, prices have not gone down. I think this is a poor reflection of our society. However, there is not much we can do about it.
Don't despair, I do have some options for you movie lovers.
1. There are still some cheap theaters, they just aren't showing all the movies you might want to see. Canton Cinema still has student prices and is a really excellent theatre. Phoenix Theatre, formerly AMC 10, has been renovated and does have cheaper prices than AMC 20. The Farmington Civic shows 2 to 3 movies that are about to go to DVD and its under 5 dollars.
2. Only go see movies on the weekends that you are DYING to see. Don't go see the popcorn flick that you think you might enjoy for $10. Save that for a week day. Or go support a movie that you really feel needs the money to help it out. I have done this and I know no one else would think about it but it can help you save some money!
3. Ah the craze of 3-D. It will add about 5 dollars to your total. Think about it. Only go see movies that you have heard 3-D enhances the experience or ones that you actually think it will make a difference. Let me tell you, The Green Hornet was not worth the experience.
4. Once you've already paid for the money, you know what comes next. Those yummy yummy snacks. Delicious pretzels, sugary snacks, ice cold ICEES. Mmmmm. Stop. Go to you local dollar store and buy those same delectable treats for a fraction of the cost. Movie theaters can't say no!
Why am I dedicating today's blog to this? In case you haven't heard, production companies are thinking of selling their movies to cable companies and putting them ON-Demand. Many big wig Hollywood guys are against it. (James Cameron and Todd Phillips of 'Hangover' fame are among the growing opposition.) If you are like me and enjoy experiencing a movie for the first time in a theater then take charge and make going to the movies fun again!
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Penny (Can) For My Thoughts?
I can't really focus on one subject today. I have many thoughts about television and movies just circling around in my head! I'm just gonna go with the flow and see if you can keep up. Ready? Set? Go?
I really miss theme songs. Don't you? I have specific memories of TV that revolve around theme songs. I can remember thinking at the series finale of both "The O. C." and "Veronica Mars" and "Friends" that this will be the last time I hear these live. It was a sad reality. I think that the age of theme songs needs to have a comeback. I know why networks do this. By cutting out the 45 seconds of theme song time, they can add either more showtime (not likely) or more commercials (ding ding ding). While I truly appreciated the opening of "Lost" (it set the mood for the hour for sure), I really and truly miss having a theme song. Do you have a favorite theme song? I particularly love "Baywatch" and "One Tree Hill".
I feel very accomplished in my movie watching career. I completed fully marathon of a movie series in one sitting. To support Michigan and because I love scary movies, I had a 'Screamathon'. And it was AMAZING. Ok, the first and fourth movies were amazing but that's beside the point. The feeling of completing an entire series in one day is just fantastic! Scream 4 exceeded expectations. The casting was very good (on the new addition side of things), the storyline was fresh and full of twists at the end, and the acting (especially one Emma Roberts) was top notch. I highly recommend it.
Many of you know that I am a very big fan of Glee. I have not used this blog to gush about the show (yet). I just would like to defend this past week's episode. Many critics have said it was awful and I firmly disagree. While it was certainly not the best episode (The Power of Madonna, Dream On, The Substitute) it was not the worst (I can't really come up with a worst, they all have something that I find redeeming.). I agree that has been a bit preachy lately and that most people watch for entertainment and not to be given a PSA about bullying. But I'm gonna ask that you just wait on your negative thoughts for a little while longer. I have a feeling that something is going to be happening that will make the bullying storyline front and center. I won't say what I believe the writers are leading up to but if I were to write the storyline, my thought is where I would go with it.
That's all I have for today. I am sorry about the randomness that was the blog! PS Did anyone watch any of the shows?! Today's title reflects "Cougar Town" being back and making my life so much better! You wanna know what it is and how to play? Just let me know!
I really miss theme songs. Don't you? I have specific memories of TV that revolve around theme songs. I can remember thinking at the series finale of both "The O. C." and "Veronica Mars" and "Friends" that this will be the last time I hear these live. It was a sad reality. I think that the age of theme songs needs to have a comeback. I know why networks do this. By cutting out the 45 seconds of theme song time, they can add either more showtime (not likely) or more commercials (ding ding ding). While I truly appreciated the opening of "Lost" (it set the mood for the hour for sure), I really and truly miss having a theme song. Do you have a favorite theme song? I particularly love "Baywatch" and "One Tree Hill".
I feel very accomplished in my movie watching career. I completed fully marathon of a movie series in one sitting. To support Michigan and because I love scary movies, I had a 'Screamathon'. And it was AMAZING. Ok, the first and fourth movies were amazing but that's beside the point. The feeling of completing an entire series in one day is just fantastic! Scream 4 exceeded expectations. The casting was very good (on the new addition side of things), the storyline was fresh and full of twists at the end, and the acting (especially one Emma Roberts) was top notch. I highly recommend it.
Many of you know that I am a very big fan of Glee. I have not used this blog to gush about the show (yet). I just would like to defend this past week's episode. Many critics have said it was awful and I firmly disagree. While it was certainly not the best episode (The Power of Madonna, Dream On, The Substitute) it was not the worst (I can't really come up with a worst, they all have something that I find redeeming.). I agree that has been a bit preachy lately and that most people watch for entertainment and not to be given a PSA about bullying. But I'm gonna ask that you just wait on your negative thoughts for a little while longer. I have a feeling that something is going to be happening that will make the bullying storyline front and center. I won't say what I believe the writers are leading up to but if I were to write the storyline, my thought is where I would go with it.
That's all I have for today. I am sorry about the randomness that was the blog! PS Did anyone watch any of the shows?! Today's title reflects "Cougar Town" being back and making my life so much better! You wanna know what it is and how to play? Just let me know!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
To Be a Favorite or Not To Be, That Is The Question.
What's your favorite movie? I know, no funny segue or anecdote, just a straight shot today. I ask because most of you are probably thinking of two ways to answer: 1. You have an 'intelligent' movie that you actually like and want to tell people so they think you are a sophisticated movie watcher or 2. you have a movie that is a bit embarrassing and are frantically thinking of any other movie to say. I'll be straight up and tell you mine: Dirty Dancing. I have seen this movie so many times I can quote it front to back. (Ok, I hear all you people saying 'But Kate, you can do that to all LOT of movies.' Shh.) I'll tell you why it's my favorite in a minute but first I want to explain a theory of mine: Favorite vs. Good.
Here it is, my pearls of wisdom: your favorite movie doesn't have to be a good movie!! Are you shocked? I know! Crazy! Here's why. Your favorite movie should be one that makes you smile thinking about it. You should know everything about it. It can be the worst movie in the entire world (cough cough Xanadu) but as long as it entertains you. I hate when people give me a haughty answer when I ask them this question and I know they are lying. Your favorite movie defines you, at least to me. It helps me get an impression of you, especially if this is the first time we have met.
Now a good movie is different than a favorite movie. They have critical acclaim, can be debated amongst people, maybe nominated or have won awards. One of the movies that get's brought up every time I ask for a favorite movie is The Shawshank Redemption. I will say that I have never seen it. ( Sorry Dan.) Most people think this is the end all and be all of movies. Maybe it is. But is it really your favorite movie? When too many people tell me its the greatest movie ever and that being a electronic media and film major I am a failure for not seeing, it makes me not want to watch it even more! I am sure it is a great movie. But is it really your favorite?
Now that I am done giving you my theory I will tell you my top 10 list. This list is subject to change.
1. Dirty Dancing- Patrick Swayze. Dancing. Summer love. Great soundtrack. "Nobody puts Baby in a corner."
2. Empire Strikes Back- The best Star Wars of the series. Great score and one-liners. One of the greatest reveals in cinema. "I love you." "I know." (This movie is a good example of a favorite and a good movie, in case you were wondering if it could be both.)
3. The Princess Bride- Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles. "As you wish." (Yes that is a direct quote. I can quote this movie from beginning to end. I was told this is a good achievement.)
4. Shrek- A lovable ogre. Mocking classic fairy tales. A talking donkey. I base all cartoon movies off this one. "You need a tictac or something because your breath STINKS!"
5. Transformers- What's not to love?! Shia (who gives one hell of a performance), robots, one of the best scores, epic footage. " Fifty years from now, when you're looking back at your life, don't you want to be able to say you had the guts to get in the car?" (I know a lot of people who hate this movie but I can watch it on repeat and not love it any less.)
The rest of these are really hard to say which I love more because I love a lot of movies.
Pretty Woman
You've Got Mail
How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days
Truman Show (another example!)
Musical Movies (Hairspray, Mamma Mia!, HSM's, Sound of Music, RENT, Moulin Rouge, Grease, That Thing You Do....)
I know that's more than 10, but it's my list so....
What's your favorite movie? Do you agree with my theory? Do you agree with my list? Let me know!
Here it is, my pearls of wisdom: your favorite movie doesn't have to be a good movie!! Are you shocked? I know! Crazy! Here's why. Your favorite movie should be one that makes you smile thinking about it. You should know everything about it. It can be the worst movie in the entire world (cough cough Xanadu) but as long as it entertains you. I hate when people give me a haughty answer when I ask them this question and I know they are lying. Your favorite movie defines you, at least to me. It helps me get an impression of you, especially if this is the first time we have met.
Now a good movie is different than a favorite movie. They have critical acclaim, can be debated amongst people, maybe nominated or have won awards. One of the movies that get's brought up every time I ask for a favorite movie is The Shawshank Redemption. I will say that I have never seen it. ( Sorry Dan.) Most people think this is the end all and be all of movies. Maybe it is. But is it really your favorite movie? When too many people tell me its the greatest movie ever and that being a electronic media and film major I am a failure for not seeing, it makes me not want to watch it even more! I am sure it is a great movie. But is it really your favorite?
Now that I am done giving you my theory I will tell you my top 10 list. This list is subject to change.
1. Dirty Dancing- Patrick Swayze. Dancing. Summer love. Great soundtrack. "Nobody puts Baby in a corner."
2. Empire Strikes Back- The best Star Wars of the series. Great score and one-liners. One of the greatest reveals in cinema. "I love you." "I know." (This movie is a good example of a favorite and a good movie, in case you were wondering if it could be both.)
3. The Princess Bride- Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles. "As you wish." (Yes that is a direct quote. I can quote this movie from beginning to end. I was told this is a good achievement.)
4. Shrek- A lovable ogre. Mocking classic fairy tales. A talking donkey. I base all cartoon movies off this one. "You need a tictac or something because your breath STINKS!"
5. Transformers- What's not to love?! Shia (who gives one hell of a performance), robots, one of the best scores, epic footage. " Fifty years from now, when you're looking back at your life, don't you want to be able to say you had the guts to get in the car?" (I know a lot of people who hate this movie but I can watch it on repeat and not love it any less.)
The rest of these are really hard to say which I love more because I love a lot of movies.
Pretty Woman
You've Got Mail
How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days
Truman Show (another example!)
Musical Movies (Hairspray, Mamma Mia!, HSM's, Sound of Music, RENT, Moulin Rouge, Grease, That Thing You Do....)
I know that's more than 10, but it's my list so....
What's your favorite movie? Do you agree with my theory? Do you agree with my list? Let me know!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
I've Got a Lifetime of Knowledge
It has come to my attention that you might not be watching some of the best television on the air. How did I come to this conclusion? I don't know. I just really need an excuse to tell you about some of my favorite shows that are not a part of the popular bunch. None of these shows are in jeopardy for this season but I don't want them to go the way of "Firefly" or"Veronica Mars" and only be on the air for a season or two. (You don't know those two shows? Shame on you. While you're at it, go watch those too.) Why do you need to know about these shows? The reason that I watch them isn't enough? Well, that's just depressing.
1. Castle (ABC, Monday 10)
Seriously, have you seen Nathan Fillion? The male lead is a geek god and has all the charm of Cary Grant. His female counterpart, Stana Kanic (don't ask me how to pronounce her last name, I looked it up!) plays Kate Beckett the cop assigned to Castle. The show has been on for three seasons and does have a fourth pickup. It's not dying in the ratings but it's not the bonafide hit it deserves to be. The cast ensemble is solid and the show has the right blend of humor and detective work. Why should you watch? The show delivers each week and gets better. Can you say that about other shows? I can't. Witty dialogue and chemistry that will actually come to fruition bring me back each week.
http://www.hulu.com/watch/179576/castle-beckett-interrogates-castle#continuous_play=on
2. Cougar Town (ABC Wednesdays 9:30)
You don't watch the show because of the title. Well guess what, you are missing out on the best sitcom that has come around in the last few years. (Yep, sorry Modern Family. I still love you though.) Courtney Cox and Co. bring me to tears laughing each week and I have been dying while Mr. Sunshine has been it's slot for the past two months. Now, why should you watch? It's like watching your life, just a bit crazier. Do you drink a lot of wine (don't say no, you know you do) and talk to your friends? Do you have intricate relationships with your best friends? Ok then. Seriously I can't praise this show enough. It's from the creators of Scrubs and while it does have a third season coming, please please please go watch reruns and fall in love with the worst titled show on TV.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1dH1PwNBSE
3. Hawaii 5-0 (CBS Mondays 10)
All hail the king of remakes! Ok, so I never watched the original but this reboot is already a classic in my book. The premise is simple: Steve McGarret's father is murdered and it turns out to be a conspiracy. Shocker. The real story here is the relationships between McGarret and the rest of his 5-0 crew. Chin-Ho and Kono (now a girl and Chin-Ho's niece) have a sweet banter together. I am still waiting for some more develop with McGarret but I have seen glimpses and I've liked what I saw. The real draw for me is Danno, or as he would rather be called Danny. Played by soon-to-be Emmy winner (if not the Academy is blind and deaf) Scott Caan, this is the real deal. Funny, charismatic, and deadpan delivery make this show amazing. I know, "Kate, I don't need another police drama.". Yes, you do.
http://www.cbs.com/primetime/hawaii_five_0/video/?pid=CiZko6_llmP4NWN6AnDPmVzun2cf7QNf
4. Vampire Diaries (CW Thursdays 8)
Yep. I went there. Vampires. Werewolves. Witches. You don't want any of it. I understand, I... oh who am I kidding. I love this stuff!!!! And how can you not, especially when its the best out there? (Dear Joss Whedon, creator of Buffy/Angel whom I respect more than anyone else, please ignore the following statement.) This is the best supernatural show. EVER. I mean it. Ok, you aren't convinced. Then put aside the whole magical aspect and focus on this: a simple love triangle between two brothers. High school romance (which in TV are always superior to anything else). Subplots that keep you interested and wanting more. Excellent writing and acting. Still say no? I dare you to watch the first four episodes and not become completely addicted.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIzN8yKDnH4
Ok guys. That is all this television visionary has for today. If you do take my advice and watch some of these shows, fear not, they are all coming back next season. Did I catch your interest? Did I miss a show you think is worthy? Let me know!
1. Castle (ABC, Monday 10)
Seriously, have you seen Nathan Fillion? The male lead is a geek god and has all the charm of Cary Grant. His female counterpart, Stana Kanic (don't ask me how to pronounce her last name, I looked it up!) plays Kate Beckett the cop assigned to Castle. The show has been on for three seasons and does have a fourth pickup. It's not dying in the ratings but it's not the bonafide hit it deserves to be. The cast ensemble is solid and the show has the right blend of humor and detective work. Why should you watch? The show delivers each week and gets better. Can you say that about other shows? I can't. Witty dialogue and chemistry that will actually come to fruition bring me back each week.
http://www.hulu.com/watch/179576/castle-beckett-interrogates-castle#continuous_play=on
2. Cougar Town (ABC Wednesdays 9:30)
You don't watch the show because of the title. Well guess what, you are missing out on the best sitcom that has come around in the last few years. (Yep, sorry Modern Family. I still love you though.) Courtney Cox and Co. bring me to tears laughing each week and I have been dying while Mr. Sunshine has been it's slot for the past two months. Now, why should you watch? It's like watching your life, just a bit crazier. Do you drink a lot of wine (don't say no, you know you do) and talk to your friends? Do you have intricate relationships with your best friends? Ok then. Seriously I can't praise this show enough. It's from the creators of Scrubs and while it does have a third season coming, please please please go watch reruns and fall in love with the worst titled show on TV.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1dH1PwNBSE
3. Hawaii 5-0 (CBS Mondays 10)
All hail the king of remakes! Ok, so I never watched the original but this reboot is already a classic in my book. The premise is simple: Steve McGarret's father is murdered and it turns out to be a conspiracy. Shocker. The real story here is the relationships between McGarret and the rest of his 5-0 crew. Chin-Ho and Kono (now a girl and Chin-Ho's niece) have a sweet banter together. I am still waiting for some more develop with McGarret but I have seen glimpses and I've liked what I saw. The real draw for me is Danno, or as he would rather be called Danny. Played by soon-to-be Emmy winner (if not the Academy is blind and deaf) Scott Caan, this is the real deal. Funny, charismatic, and deadpan delivery make this show amazing. I know, "Kate, I don't need another police drama.". Yes, you do.
http://www.cbs.com/primetime/hawaii_five_0/video/?pid=CiZko6_llmP4NWN6AnDPmVzun2cf7QNf
4. Vampire Diaries (CW Thursdays 8)
Yep. I went there. Vampires. Werewolves. Witches. You don't want any of it. I understand, I... oh who am I kidding. I love this stuff!!!! And how can you not, especially when its the best out there? (Dear Joss Whedon, creator of Buffy/Angel whom I respect more than anyone else, please ignore the following statement.) This is the best supernatural show. EVER. I mean it. Ok, you aren't convinced. Then put aside the whole magical aspect and focus on this: a simple love triangle between two brothers. High school romance (which in TV are always superior to anything else). Subplots that keep you interested and wanting more. Excellent writing and acting. Still say no? I dare you to watch the first four episodes and not become completely addicted.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIzN8yKDnH4
Ok guys. That is all this television visionary has for today. If you do take my advice and watch some of these shows, fear not, they are all coming back next season. Did I catch your interest? Did I miss a show you think is worthy? Let me know!
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