anandbhatt's articles tagged "movies" - Anand Bhatt's READY FOR THE RED CARPET Blog

Racism in Hollywood?

By Mary Thompson -

(pic courtesy of HollywoodReporter)

Have we reached the end of the golden age?

There was a time in the quite recent past when people would remark that this was the safest time to be alive. Surely, our society had reached a certain degree of civilization that enacting violence and discrimination on an individual because of their race would become a thing of the past.

One would think that the international business market place and multi-cultural societies would have torn down those barriers that they would be virtually non-existent. Nevertheless, despite being isolated these incidents these do occur.

During times of international crisis, tragedies or general grievances it used to be people would turn to the silver screen to forget their troubles. Whether it's the result of political disputes. Can we still trust that paying a few dollars to watch a film will be a good way to forget our troubles?

Surely it can't be that bad not in Hollywood...
Whether or not our senses are simply heightened to occurrences racism because of the increased amount disputes saw on the news day in and day out. It doesn't change is the fact that no matter how we look at it judging somebody based on their race is wrong.

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It used to be that award shows such as the Academy Awards or Golden Globes lacked diversity. However, that was quickly proven to be no longer upon seeing that La La Land, Moonlight and Hidden Figures all won prestigious awards. Despite the mix up at the end of the show they both no doubt received recognition for their achievements.

Apparently, Disney has caught on as well.
It's no secret that the Walt Disney company has branched out from only producing hits which cater to the youngest of movie goers. Remakes of their animation masterpieces have gained prestigious recognition in the glitziest of Tinseltown's award shows. Which has enabled them to stay true to family-friendly programming for all ages as well as hop on Hollywood's drive to achieve multiculturalism.

This is more than just a clever PR tactic in order to score higher sales in the box office. In fact, evidence of it can be seen in the newest of Disney remakes Maleficent, Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast. All of which sported cast members of a melting pot of races.

Further evidence of diversity can be seen in the elements of movie soundtracks.
Tracks on a movie soundtrack are part of what makes scenes so iconic. In fact, movies can be recognized simply by the notes of their themes. For instance, movies such as E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Schindler's List, Hook and Jurassic Park can be recognized by their music alone.

But what makes these soundtracks so great? Is it as simple as tossing a few songs together that perhaps compliment the scenes? Wrong! It's not as easy as that. On the contrary, it takes individuals of diverse cultures, backgrounds and races to turn out a masterpiece. Without these different elements, most soundtracks would be sterile, predictable and boring.

We can't change the past.
Hollywood much like everything else has the past they would much rather choose to forget. During the early days of motion pictures minorities were solely designated to be cast as the servants. Having individuals of opposite races play couples was unheard of. However, as time went on it seemed as if Hollywood lead the way into opening societies eyes to the fact that people should not be cast according to the colour of their skin. Rather, qualifications should centre around the talent they possess.

Perhaps there may be hope for us yet?
The times in which we now live are by no means pleasant. Freedoms which we used to take for granted are no longer in abundant supply. This is due to the fact that some individuals believe they are more superior due to their racial background. Therefore, these benefits should not be available to others which are unlike them due to a difference in the colour of their skin.

It has gotten so bad that learning of another international tragedy which has claimed more lives is no longer a rarity. In fact, despite the shocking side effect, it has taken on the persona of becoming the new normal. Nevertheless, it's a comfort to know that for just a few dollars to see a movie we can forget our troubles.

After all racism and prejudice have no place in Hollywood. Let's keep it that way.

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racism, black lives matter, hollywood, movies

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#Posted on Thursday, 31 August 2017 at 11:37 AM

Edited on Saturday, 02 September 2017 at 12:49 PM

Red Carpet Spotlight: Hollywood in Chicago, a chat with Ric Morgan

Chicago based actor/producer Ric Morgan is currently filming a feature called, IMAGO! It is always great to see my hometown of Chiraq getting some entertainment industry buzz. Seriously, Cali gets old for even die hard west-cost folk. Meanwhile, Chi-town will always have a unique and cinematic grit. Thanks to Laura, we were able to get a 1-on-1 Q&A with Ric.

How was it transitioning from law enforcement to the entertainment industry?

When I left the Sheriff's Office, it was my intention to take some time off, travel, and visit far-flung places and family. Figured that after awhile I would return to the public-safety realm, as I'd amassed a considerable skill-set, one in demand in an increasingly dangerous world; maybe as a beltway counter-terrorism consultant, bomb appraisal officer, or in VIP protection. Going into showbiz really wasn't on my radar.

After catching up with the fam, I knocked around Latin America awhile. Did some surfing, yoga, brushed up on my Spanish, learned to spin poi, and came to find out how little one needs to be happy. Pura Vida is about catching that wave or sunset, dancing under the stars, kissing the girl. The impetus to parlay my experience into a well-paying job, working for the man, had evaporated into the warm tropical air.

Upon my return, on a lark I went on the set of the Kelsey Grammer TV series Boss as an extra. I was just supposed to be a sidewalk blur for the scene, but I could instantly access that the timing with the campaign bus' arrival was all off, so when the principal actors disembarked I stopped, held open the storefront door, and followed them inside, and into the next scene. Turned out Mario Van Peebles was the director for that episode, and he took a shine to me, goofing around and pulling me into more shots. I had a great time. Shortly thereafter I went on an audition for a bit part in an indie short, and wound up being offered the principal titular role. Things started to pick up steam from then on, and I never seriously considered going back to where I'm given a Blackberry and the mantle of grave responsibility.

Now, if I screw up, nobody dies; it's just, "Take 2!"

What are the biggest challenges that come with being an actor?

Auditions would have to be near the top of the list. Not so much because of anxiety or nerves, because I handle those in the context of a life lived through far worse, but rather in the challenge of trying to discern how to approach, and execute my performance. Who are these people, and what do they want? I will often have several ideas for the character, but may only get one shot. I can usually be fearless in my choice, but auditions are conducted in so many different ways, sometimes I get tripped up. I am trying to learn to slow down, and access the room better before beginning.

What are the benefits of being based in Chicago?

Where do I begin? Chicago's film community is vibrant, collaborative, and supportive (almost to a fault, in that we need to be harder on ourselves, so as to be taken more seriously elsewhere). Everything one needs to create quality films is right here: the acting talent, the experienced crews, equipment, locations -great locations, and an awesome public-transportation system to tie it all together. Illinois Film Office tax incentives invite more productions, begetting Cinespace, seven major TV and film productions, and film incubators like Stage 18 and Fort Knox.

If you could play any role in a feature film, what type of role would you play and who would you chose as your co-star?

The Broken Man. I am often cast in authoritarian roles, which is fine, but I want to play the down-and-out, has-been, drunken former jazz star whose wife left him after their only son died while in his care. That, or a remake of "Fletch".
Who is your favorite actor and why?

Wow, that's tough. I'm going to go with Anthony Hopkins. For his ability in memorizing lines, and delivering them in such a away that you are convinced it is the very first time he has uttered them. He's a nuanced master at projecting power, minimally. You forget you're watching Sir Anthony. While he is probably best known for his portrayal of Hannibal Lecter, I really liked him as Burt Munro in World's Fastest Indian.

If you could give someone advice who is looking to make a career change like yourself and get into acting, what would you tell them?

Don't do so seeking fame, or fortune, but for love and in pursuit of the craft, and the art of cinematic storytelling.

What is your most recent project?
Imago- A full-length indie feature dramatizing the horrors of modern-day sexual slavery and human trafficking. We are currently in production, and are about halfway through principal photography.
(Imago is scheduled to release in 2018 www.facebook.com/Imagothemovie2017 )

More on Ric Morgan @ www.IMDb.me/ricmorgan www.ricmorgan.net

It must be hard wearing multiple hats, tell us what it is like to be both a producer and an actor on Imago?

Also location scout, casting agent, grip, script doctor and occasional director! It's crazy, and a challenge to maintain focus when spinning so many plates, all the while herding cats. But 'tis the nature of indie filmmaking, and we all pull together.

Lastly, tell us about Ric Morgan in a nutshell.

Wide Quixotic streak. Curious and wondering. Humbly humbled. Evolved and evolving. Observant, and feeling. Reliably unexpected. Re-Imagining Reality.

red carpet, movies, spotlight

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#Posted on Friday, 30 June 2017 at 4:51 PM

Edited on Friday, 30 June 2017 at 5:03 PM

MTV Movie & TV Awards Predictions - Who's Going To Take It All?

By Mary Thompson -
MTV Movie & TV Awards Predictions - Who's Going To Take It All?

MTV Movie & Television Awards Predictions
Are the upcoming winners truly deserving of their moment in the spotlight, or a way to
fulfill a bigger agenda? We can only hope the answer isn't the latter.

On the surface award, shows give the persona of having results that are a complete surprise to
the nominees, audience both present at the award show and those watching at home.
Nevertheless, as it is with all televised broadcasts, whether they're taped or live, things may not
be all that they may seem. Ultimately, the main goal is to get a good reaction from the audience
in order to achieve high ratings.

That disclaimer being said in order to keep the audience happy popular nominees have to come away with
the awards when all is said and done. However, at the same time, it is essential that those
chosen shouldn't be biased in order to achieve agendas such as political correctness and what
not.

Could the“tale as old as time” reach far enough to take home the award for the best
movie of the year? Or could it ultimately blast off to a galaxy far way?
When it comes to accurate predictions, one obvious choice would be Beauty and the Beast. A
long list of factors add up to this conclusion. For instance, even before the movie's release the
hype that surrounded it was enormous. So many movie goers were anxious to see the classic
they love to come to life. It was particularly refreshing that it did not fall through the trap of taking
a new twist in order to keep things fresh. Aside from the addition of a few brand new songs, it
stayed true to the story. If it indeed is given the prestigious recognition, it will truly deserve.
Since the story was enhanced and not butchered.

Most might disagree with this choice since, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is just as popular.
However, it has also been done so many times that the result would be far too obvious that the
reactions would be "oh, we knew that was going to happen!” as opposed to, “wow!” How about
giving the spotlight to someone else George Lucas?

Could the best smooch award of the night be as easy to predict? Or could it all be down
to a few moments of bated breath?
It was clear to viewers around the world that La La Land and Moonlight dominated the Oscars.
That being said it's truly a toss-up as to who could ultimately take home the price. It could very
well go to La La Land's Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, or Moonlight's Jharrel Jerome and
Ashton Sanders. Even so, clearly these two have met their match by coming up against
Beauty and the Beast's Dan Stevens and Emma Watson.

For best comedic performance, it really could come down to the best of the best.
Most television series gamble on the success of their pilot. After that's out of the way then
comes the question of will it really last? Does the show have staying power? Or will be getting
past the first season be akin to reaching the impossible dream? When you do come across a
television series that has stood the test of time, this is simply due to the fact that fans love it.

That being said, here at Anand Bhatt's Ready for the Red Carpet, our prediction for the winner of best comedic performance is none other than
Seth MacFarlane in Family Guy. Whether it's Stewie declaring to kill Lois or listening to
Peter's creepy laugh and Brian pessimistic view of the state of the world. The Griffith's have
surely crept their way into our lives and truly earned the title of being called a house hold name.
Is it going to be a night of surprises or could obvious predictions take the cake?
Award shows have proven to us that they all seem to follow a certain trend. In other words, once
you see one you've seen them all. Without a doubt, there's a pretty good chance that the MTV
Movie and Television Awards will follow suit.

Now, these predictions could either resemble a crystal ball into the future or wild
guesses that will amount to nothing more than that. But, as the past has shown us winners of
one show carry that over to the next. In order to keep the audience happy and ratings through
the roof highly acclaimed feature films and television show need to declare victory above their
competitors.

MTV movie awards, red carpet, awards, celebrity, movies, tv

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#Posted on Friday, 28 April 2017 at 1:17 PM

Is Cutting the Cord the Only Solution to High Cable Costs?

By Mary Thompson -

There's got to be an easier way right?
With the rising costs of cable television, any way to cut the cord and not have to pay an arm and leg seems to be the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow for so many consumers. Internet-based television options as well as satellite services have recognized this consumer demand and have answered it. However, despite their best efforts to create cheaper price tags and bills that won't make your heart stop. Upon conducting trial runs and examining system requirements needed to have these alternative solutions running smoothly could add up to cost around the same price or more than cable.

Cable promotional prices are temporary. The proof is in the name.
One of the biggest pitfalls of acquiring cable services is that after the promotional pricing, period has come to an end. Bills which at times come up to a little more than $100, could escalate to grand totals of around $50 or more. A lot depends on the length of cable wire, which would have to be utilized to carry out the service to the consumers.

$20 a month or less of TV sounds good, but what about the costs to get things going? I guess someone forgot to mention that...

The natural response to seeing an astronomical bill would be to cut off the service and go along with alternatives such as Sling TV or Hulu. Which is fine since no one wants to pay a bundle for cable. But, before doing anything hasty, let's stop and consider all the ramifications to this major decision.

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These cheaper alternatives require one major element to be functional, a reliable fast connection to the Internet. Why you may ask? Well for the simple reason that all programs will be viewable through streaming. Not having a fast Internet connection could result in lengthy buffering times. Which would turn television / movie viewing into a stressful activity and not a relaxing one.

Upon first glance, one would think that just getting Internet service would be cheaper than bundling it with cable and a land line. The sad reality is farthest from the truth. In most cases just Internet service could end up costing more. This is a clever marketing technique cable providers use to rope consumers into signing up for the Internet, cable and a land line. Which is good for business, but bad for customers who are trying to reduce their bill and find a way out. The harsh reality of the situation can more likely resemble a double-edged sword than anything else.

There is the satellite...
The second option which would help avoid paying for the high-speed Internet essential for streaming channels is none other than the satellite TV solution. Nevertheless, an element that could definitely create technical difficulties is one of the most natural hindrances we have to deal with on a daily basis. This is none other than the weather. Sadly, tumultuous weather which is at risk of happening practically year-round can put a damper into your viewing pleasure.

All types of viewers aren't created equal.
It seems as if the only reliable solution for television not prone to constant interruptions is a cable provider. But, don't fret it isn't all that bad. There ways to avoid the feeling of dread as you slowly pry open the bill from hell. The steps that can be taken to decrease or get rid of the cable company all together will depend on each families viewing habits.

Keep the channels you watch and get rid of those you don't.
There are hundreds of channels to choose from, but chances are you probably don't watch every single one of them. Bingo! There's your first money saver. Most cable providers will offer different channel packages. The more varieties you have the steeper your bill will be. So cut those down and watch the savings at up.
Are you more of a TV or movie viewer?

If this is your style, then you're in luck the savings will really add up. Unlike Sling TV or Hulu, Netflix doesn't require the most expensive Internet connection in the bunch to turn out smooth service. With their selections for everyone in the family, changing all the time hit movies and television shows are added periodically. There's bound to be something for everyone. Making the switch could cut the home entertainment budget done by as much as $100 reduction in price per month.

A satellite dish may just be what the doctor ordered.
So what if decreasing the channel line-up isn't an option. Sports channels, news networks and all the latest kids programs are must haves, ok that's doable. If that's the case going through the satellite disk route may be the best path. Disconnections will occur during bad weather, but that is fixable, and it's hard to escape the bright light in all this that most channel line-up packages may only cost as much as $19 per month. Your home entertainment bill will get such a makeover it'll be unrecognizable.

One shoe doesn't fit all.
Before making the cut consider the options. Different families have distinctive needs. Whether we like to admit it or not much of family life revolves around home entertainment. What might be right for one isn't going to suit the other. So take into account all the options and make a choice. Your cable bill may leave you pleasantly surprised.

hollywood, advice, television, movies

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#Posted on Wednesday, 19 April 2017 at 12:56 PM

Disney Movie Remakes

by Mary Thompson

Magical Masterpiece or Dreadful Disaster?
The success of the Walt Disney Corporation is clearly evident in their theme parks, resorts, hotels and cruise ships throughout the world. Most successful corporations fail to recognize the moment when they have reached the peak of their popularity. Thus further expansions and ventures can back fire ensuring in their inevitable undoing.

Companies that fall through the trap of assumed greatness are those which believe their very name will exhibit a sense of a status symbol and quality. Part of the Walt Disney's success was his ability to bring to life on the big-screen remakes of beloved fairy tales. For instance, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella who were original works of the Brothers Grimm.

To further add to the enchantment, fans from all over the world are able to meet their beloved characters in Disney World or anyone of the Disneyland theme parks. This once in a lifetime experience seemed to allow the magic leap out from the screen and into reality.

However, as always because of a natural instinct to explore, our curiosity is never fully satisfied. The emergence of technology brought upon by high tech animatronics, and computers have created special effects of magnitudes to unbelievable heights. Now that all this technology is at our finger tips, Hollywood has decided to push things a step further and bring the magical world of Disney to life passed the cartoon sketches.

Reality is far different from fantasy.
Myself together with a lot of Disney fans I'm sure are curious to see what these princesses of grace, magic and pure perfection look like in real life. Do the singing blue birds still surround them? Are the villains defeated? At the end of a suspenseful battle, does the handsome prince save the day? Or do they ruin the fantasy for the rest of us so much that we never look at our favorite fairytales the same way again? Sadly, it's true alterations are made, which result in the once masterpiece being unrecognizable.

Sleeping Beauty...uh wrong kiss
To many generations of those young and young at heart the song Once Upon a Dream based on Tchaikovsky's ballet Grand Valse Villageoise conjures up images of Princess Aurora dancing with Prince Philip in the enchanted forest. The evil fairy Maleficent was ever present, but throughout the story took a backseat to the beautiful princess and the three little fairies that raised her as their own. It was only at the very end did

Maleficent take center stage as Price Philip fought through the forces of evil to wake the sleeping princess. The climax of this beloved fairytale is when Aurora is awoken by true love's kiss.

Even though everyone waited bated breath for an ending that they already knew was going to happen, the very fact it was being brought to life was truly spell bounding. Imagine our disappointment when she had awoken to Maleficent giving her a peck instead?!

Bibbidi-Bobbidi Boo or Bibbidi Bobbidi Booooo!
Clearly this was one production that was never asked the question, “Can't they just leave well enough alone?” Why add a dramatic back story for Cinderella and the prince on horseback before they meet?
One of the unforgettable memories of the original 1950 version was when the prince and Cinderella see each for the first time at the ball. The magic of love at first sight per say? How can it be love at first sight if they've met already? At the very least, it wasn't completely horrible. The costumes were beautiful. I adored the wedding scene and all the talking mice were there.

Is Beauty and the Beast simply going to be a beastly monstrosity?
In an ideal world Beauty and the Beast who comes to theater's in March will be a compliment to the classic. Unforgettable scenes will be brought to life creating new memories, but at the same time sticking exactly to the masterpiece audiences all over the work knew and love. Sneak peek previews have loaded it with so much pizazz that so many other feature films being released at the same time are being put to shame. Belle falls in love with the Beast. The Beast turns back into a handsome prince and along with the other inhabitants of the enchanted castle, and the curse is finally lifted. One can only hope, right? However, given the history of Disney re-makes brought to life. I'll hope for the best and be prepared for magical mayhem.

Sprinkle on some pixie dust and not just dust.
There are certain scenes of joy, sadness, suspense and magic fans of Walt Disney's classic stories have come to expect. Were these remakes produced in order to gain further success by bringing popular Disney characters to life? Or are they simply a persuasive attempt to see things in a new way?

Has the magic been lost in all these modern twists and turns? I hope for the Walt Disney Corporation's sake that they have not put a bigger importance on showcasing special effects, the computerized cinematography of robots and green screens. So much so that classic tales many generations have grown up with are completely lost and unrecognizable.

disney, movies, remakes, films, hollywood

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#Posted on Tuesday, 28 February 2017 at 2:25 PM

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12 tagged articles movies

Racism in Hollywood?

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Red Carpet Spotlight: Hollywood in Chicago, a chat with Ric Morgan

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MTV Movie & TV Awards Predictions - Who's Going To Take It All?

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Is Cutting the Cord the Only Solution to High Cable Costs?

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Disney Movie Remakes

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