Despite a copious amount of violence, multiple deaths, and slimy, goopy scenes wherein little monsters get blended, torched, melted, and otherwise horribly mutilated, Joe Dante's Frank Capra spoof "Gremlins" was released on June 8, 1984, with a PG rating from the Motion Picture Association of America. Producer Steven Spielberg recognized that "Gremlins," in being so tonally whimsical, wasn't quite raw enough to warrant an R-rating, but recognized that it might be a little too terrifying for the kids who were allowed to see PG-rated movies. Spielberg suggested to the MPAA that they introcued a PG-13 rating to cover films like "Gremlins." It should also be noted that, in 1984, a PG rating was also given to Spielberg's violent adventure film "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom," so it was high time a stop-gap be included.
The PG-13 rating was introduced on July 1, less than a month after "Gremlins" opened. Weirdly, "Gremlins...
The PG-13 rating was introduced on July 1, less than a month after "Gremlins" opened. Weirdly, "Gremlins...
- 6/7/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Producer Mike Finnell (Joe Dante’s long time producing partner) joins Josh and Joe to discuss a few of his favorite movies.
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Avalanche (1978)
Airport (1970)
Earthquake (1974) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
Matinee (1993) – Illeana Douglas’s trailer commentary, Dennis Cozzalio’s review, Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
Hollywood Boulevard (1976) – Jon Davison’s trailer commentary, Randy Fuller’s wine pairing
Deceived (1991)
Newsies (1992)
Milk Money (1994)
Rock ‘n’ Roll High School (1979) – Eli Roth’s trailer commentary
The Howling (1981) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary, Randy Fuller’s wine pairings
Twilight Zone: The Movie (1983)
Gremlins (1984) – Glenn Erickson’s 4K Blu-ray review, Tfh’s 30th anniversary celebration
Explorers (1985) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
Innerspace (1987) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
The ’Burbs (1989) – Ti West’s trailer commentary, Tfh’s ’Burbs Mania
Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)
Small Soldiers (1998)
A Matter of Life and Death (1946) – Glenn Erickson’s...
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Avalanche (1978)
Airport (1970)
Earthquake (1974) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
Matinee (1993) – Illeana Douglas’s trailer commentary, Dennis Cozzalio’s review, Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
Hollywood Boulevard (1976) – Jon Davison’s trailer commentary, Randy Fuller’s wine pairing
Deceived (1991)
Newsies (1992)
Milk Money (1994)
Rock ‘n’ Roll High School (1979) – Eli Roth’s trailer commentary
The Howling (1981) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary, Randy Fuller’s wine pairings
Twilight Zone: The Movie (1983)
Gremlins (1984) – Glenn Erickson’s 4K Blu-ray review, Tfh’s 30th anniversary celebration
Explorers (1985) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
Innerspace (1987) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
The ’Burbs (1989) – Ti West’s trailer commentary, Tfh’s ’Burbs Mania
Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)
Small Soldiers (1998)
A Matter of Life and Death (1946) – Glenn Erickson’s...
- 7/12/2022
- by Kris Millsap
- Trailers from Hell
One of Joe Dante’s finest pictures speaks heart-to-heart to gee-whiz space fans — transporting us from our backyard to the far reaches of the galaxy. With a boost from aliens unknown, Ethan Hawke, River Phoenix and Jason Presson are the intrepid space cadets that construct a fantastic vehicle from mysterious dream-signals, no Interociter required. Their dreams hint at the secret desires in their adolescent imaginations, even without an it’s-all-a-dream sandpit. They dare fly where no man has flown before, a genuine escape from the petty pressures of Junior High. New and old input on the Blu-ray finally tells the full story of the making of an underrated wonder movie.
Explorers
Blu-ray
1985 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 109, 106 min. / Street Date May 25, 2021
Starring: Ethan Hawke, River Phoenix, Jason Presson, Amanda Peterson, Dick Miller, Dana Ivey, James Cromwell, Brooke Bundy, Robert Picardo, Leslie Rickert, Mary Kay Place.
Cinematography: John Hora
Film Editor: Tina Hirsch
Production Design: Robert S.
Explorers
Blu-ray
1985 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 109, 106 min. / Street Date May 25, 2021
Starring: Ethan Hawke, River Phoenix, Jason Presson, Amanda Peterson, Dick Miller, Dana Ivey, James Cromwell, Brooke Bundy, Robert Picardo, Leslie Rickert, Mary Kay Place.
Cinematography: John Hora
Film Editor: Tina Hirsch
Production Design: Robert S.
- 6/5/2021
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
With a little more than a week until Salem Horror Fest kicks off their virtual festival, they have officially announced their list of special guests that include John Waters, Joe Dante, multiple retrospectives and reunions, and more!
[Salem Ma * September 21, 2020 ] - Salem Horror Fest has announced a star studded lineup of celebrity guests that include legendary directors Joe Dante and John Waters along with reunions and retrospectives of films such as Gremlins 2: The New Batch, The Howling, Friday the 13th VI: Jason Lives, Stephen King’s It, A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master, Ginger Snaps and Cecil B. Demented.
Dee Wallace, Zach Galligan, and Robert Picardo join Joe Dante for reunions of Gremlins 2: The New Batch and The Howling with Academy Award winning screenwriter John Sayles and producer Michael Finnell. The panels are part of a festival tribute to Dante’s filmography supported by original artwork from...
[Salem Ma * September 21, 2020 ] - Salem Horror Fest has announced a star studded lineup of celebrity guests that include legendary directors Joe Dante and John Waters along with reunions and retrospectives of films such as Gremlins 2: The New Batch, The Howling, Friday the 13th VI: Jason Lives, Stephen King’s It, A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master, Ginger Snaps and Cecil B. Demented.
Dee Wallace, Zach Galligan, and Robert Picardo join Joe Dante for reunions of Gremlins 2: The New Batch and The Howling with Academy Award winning screenwriter John Sayles and producer Michael Finnell. The panels are part of a festival tribute to Dante’s filmography supported by original artwork from...
- 9/22/2020
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
The exclusive 4K Ultra-hd club welcomes a worthy new member, Joe Dante’s evergreen horror comedy (and Christmas delight) about a cute furry critter and its 2nd-generation horde of scaly, impish demons. These aren’t Gremlins from the Kremlin, but homegrown domestic terrorist monsters, and Dante contrasts their killer antics with a sentimental parody of small town America. No CGI … You will believe that the animatronic rascals can multiply like rabbits, break dance, and run amuck!
Gremlins
4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital Code
Warner Bros. Home Entertainment
1984 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 106 min. / Street Date October 1, 2019 / 41.99
Starring: Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Hoyt Axton, Keye Luke, Frances Lee McCain, Dick Miller, Jackie Joseph, Judge Reinhold, Polly Holliday, Belinda Balaski, Edward Andrews, Don Steele, Scott Brady, Corey Feldman, Harry Carey Jr., Chuck Jones, Glynn Turman, Jerry Goldsmith, William Schallert, Steven Spielberg, Kenneth Tobey.
Cinematography: John Hora
Film Editor: Tina Hirsch
Original Music: Jerry Goldsmith...
Gremlins
4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital Code
Warner Bros. Home Entertainment
1984 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 106 min. / Street Date October 1, 2019 / 41.99
Starring: Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Hoyt Axton, Keye Luke, Frances Lee McCain, Dick Miller, Jackie Joseph, Judge Reinhold, Polly Holliday, Belinda Balaski, Edward Andrews, Don Steele, Scott Brady, Corey Feldman, Harry Carey Jr., Chuck Jones, Glynn Turman, Jerry Goldsmith, William Schallert, Steven Spielberg, Kenneth Tobey.
Cinematography: John Hora
Film Editor: Tina Hirsch
Original Music: Jerry Goldsmith...
- 9/28/2019
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
In the late 1970s, Roger Corman was looking to produce a high school-themed movie. Knowing that one of his young directing proteges had a bent for music, the head of New World Pictures had an idea. As Allan Arkush remembers Corman telling him: “I’ve been thinking, since ‘Grease’ and ‘Saturday Night Fever’ are hits, why don’t you put music in it and we’ll call it ‘Disco High’?”
Fortunately, as “Rock ‘n’ Roll High School” took shape, cooler heads prevailed … and nothing could be cooler than the Ramones, then, in 1979, or now, even after most of the band members have passed on. It was 40 years ago this week that the film had its New York City opening, which was part of a very, very staggered release pattern for a low-budget project that came to stand in the upper ranks of almost everyone’s list of essential music movies.
Fortunately, as “Rock ‘n’ Roll High School” took shape, cooler heads prevailed … and nothing could be cooler than the Ramones, then, in 1979, or now, even after most of the band members have passed on. It was 40 years ago this week that the film had its New York City opening, which was part of a very, very staggered release pattern for a low-budget project that came to stand in the upper ranks of almost everyone’s list of essential music movies.
- 8/5/2019
- by Raj Tawney
- Variety Film + TV
Warner Bros. Home Entertainment announced today that 1984’s Gremlins will be released on Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital on October 1. Directed by Joe Dante and written by Chris Columbus, the film stars Zach Galligan as Billy Peltzer, Phoebe Cates as Kate Beringer, and Hoyt Axton and Randall Peltzer, along with the voices of Frank Welker as Stripe and Howie Mandel as Gizmo.
Gremlins was produced by Michael Finnell and executive produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, and Steven Spielberg.
Ultra HD* showcases 4K resolution with High Dynamic Range (Hdr) and a wider color spectrum, offering consumers brighter, deeper, more lifelike colors for a home entertainment viewing experience like never before.
Gremlins will be available on Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack for $41.99 Srp and includes an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc with the feature film in 4K with Hdr and a Blu-ray disc with the feature film and special features.
Gremlins was produced by Michael Finnell and executive produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, and Steven Spielberg.
Ultra HD* showcases 4K resolution with High Dynamic Range (Hdr) and a wider color spectrum, offering consumers brighter, deeper, more lifelike colors for a home entertainment viewing experience like never before.
Gremlins will be available on Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack for $41.99 Srp and includes an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc with the feature film in 4K with Hdr and a Blu-ray disc with the feature film and special features.
- 6/6/2019
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Just in time for the Halloween season (and the Christmas season beyond that), Warner Bros. Home Entertainment is releasing Joe Dante's Gremlins on a 4K Ultra HD combo pack that also includes a Blu-ray and digital release of the iconic horror comedy.
Press Release: Burbank, CA, June 4, 2019 – Warner Bros. Home Entertainment announced today that 1984’s Gremlins will be released on Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital on October 1. Directed by Joe Dante and written by Chris Columbus, the film stars Zach Galligan as Billy Peltzer, Phoebe Cates as Kate Beringer, and Hoyt Axton and Randall Peltzer, along with the voices of Frank Welker as Stripe and Howie Mandel as Gizmo.
Gremlins was produced by Michael Finnell and executive produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, and Steven Spielberg.
Ultra HD* showcases 4K resolution with High Dynamic Range (Hdr) and a wider color spectrum, offering consumers brighter, deeper, more lifelike...
Press Release: Burbank, CA, June 4, 2019 – Warner Bros. Home Entertainment announced today that 1984’s Gremlins will be released on Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital on October 1. Directed by Joe Dante and written by Chris Columbus, the film stars Zach Galligan as Billy Peltzer, Phoebe Cates as Kate Beringer, and Hoyt Axton and Randall Peltzer, along with the voices of Frank Welker as Stripe and Howie Mandel as Gizmo.
Gremlins was produced by Michael Finnell and executive produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, and Steven Spielberg.
Ultra HD* showcases 4K resolution with High Dynamic Range (Hdr) and a wider color spectrum, offering consumers brighter, deeper, more lifelike...
- 6/5/2019
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Burbank, CA, June 4, 2019 – Warner Bros. Home Entertainment announced today that 1984’s Gremlins will be released on Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital on October 1. Directed by Joe Dante and written by Chris Columbus, the film stars Zach Galligan as Billy Peltzer, Phoebe Cates as Kate Beringer, and Hoyt Axton and Randall Peltzer, along with the voices of Frank Welker as Stripe and Howie Mandel as Gizmo.
Gremlins was produced by Michael Finnell and executive produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, and Steven Spielberg.
Ultra HD* showcases 4K resolution with High Dynamic Range (Hdr) and a wider color spectrum, offering consumers brighter, deeper, more lifelike colors for a home entertainment viewing experience like never before.
Gremlins will be available on Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack for $41.99 Srp and includes an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc with the feature film in 4K with Hdr and a Blu-ray disc with the feature film and special features.
Gremlins was produced by Michael Finnell and executive produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, and Steven Spielberg.
Ultra HD* showcases 4K resolution with High Dynamic Range (Hdr) and a wider color spectrum, offering consumers brighter, deeper, more lifelike colors for a home entertainment viewing experience like never before.
Gremlins will be available on Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack for $41.99 Srp and includes an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc with the feature film in 4K with Hdr and a Blu-ray disc with the feature film and special features.
- 6/5/2019
- by ComicMix Staff
- Comicmix.com
A scary monster movie comes to Key West just as a nuclear crisis breaks out! Joe Dante’s incomparable paean to monster kid culture has finally arrived on Region A Blu-ray, with the great extras we expect from every Dante-involved home video offering. The picture only gets more charming and funny with time, from its great cast of teens to the perfect pitch of John Goodman and Cathy Moriarty’s bigger-than-life characters.
Matinee
Blu-ray
Shout Select
1993 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 99 min. / Street Date January 16, 2018 / 34.93
Starring John Goodman, Cathy Moriarty, Simon Fenton, Omri Katz, Lisa Jakub, Kellie Martin, Jesse Lee, Lucinda Jenney, James Villemaire, Robert Picardo, Jesse White, Dick Miller, John Sayles, David Clennon, Belinda Balaski, Naomi Watts, Robert Cornthwaite, Kevin McCarthy, William Schallert.
Cinematography John Hora
Film Editor Marshall Harvey
Original Music Jerry Goldsmith
Written by Charles S. Haas, story by Haas & Jerico.
Produced by Michael Finnell
Directed by Joe Dante...
Matinee
Blu-ray
Shout Select
1993 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 99 min. / Street Date January 16, 2018 / 34.93
Starring John Goodman, Cathy Moriarty, Simon Fenton, Omri Katz, Lisa Jakub, Kellie Martin, Jesse Lee, Lucinda Jenney, James Villemaire, Robert Picardo, Jesse White, Dick Miller, John Sayles, David Clennon, Belinda Balaski, Naomi Watts, Robert Cornthwaite, Kevin McCarthy, William Schallert.
Cinematography John Hora
Film Editor Marshall Harvey
Original Music Jerry Goldsmith
Written by Charles S. Haas, story by Haas & Jerico.
Produced by Michael Finnell
Directed by Joe Dante...
- 1/2/2018
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
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Universal's classic monster movie Creature From The Black Lagoon was almost remade by John Carpenter in the 1990s. So what happened?
It's one of the great suspense scenes in 50s genre cinema: a woman swims in the clear cool water of an Amazonian lagoon, blissfully unaware of the grotesque creature emerging from the depths beneath her. The score builds to a crescendo as the monster closes in, reaching out with a clawed, webbed hand...
Director Jack Arnold directed some of the best American sci-fi movies of the post-wwii era, and Creature From The Black Lagoon is perhaps his most famous. About a team of scientists investigating the fossilised remains of a strange man-fish hybrid - and discovering the thing still very much alive in the depths of the Amazon - the movie was a sizeable hit for Universal when it came out in early 1954.
The cultural impact...
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Universal's classic monster movie Creature From The Black Lagoon was almost remade by John Carpenter in the 1990s. So what happened?
It's one of the great suspense scenes in 50s genre cinema: a woman swims in the clear cool water of an Amazonian lagoon, blissfully unaware of the grotesque creature emerging from the depths beneath her. The score builds to a crescendo as the monster closes in, reaching out with a clawed, webbed hand...
Director Jack Arnold directed some of the best American sci-fi movies of the post-wwii era, and Creature From The Black Lagoon is perhaps his most famous. About a team of scientists investigating the fossilised remains of a strange man-fish hybrid - and discovering the thing still very much alive in the depths of the Amazon - the movie was a sizeable hit for Universal when it came out in early 1954.
The cultural impact...
- 1/25/2016
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
In the 1980s, bored film critics sometimes claimed to see homoerotic themes in any 'buddy picture' about guys being friends with guys. Only one bold comedy dared to confront this notion directly -- in this show, Dennis Quaid spends a full two hours inside Martin Short, yet the finished picture is still perfectly suitable for all audiences and age groups! Savant Blu-ray Review Warner Home Video 1987 / Color /1.78:1 / 116 min. / Street Date August 4, 2015/ available through Warner Bros. / 13.09 Starring Dennis Quaid, Martin Short, Meg Ryan, Kevin McCarthy, Fiona Lewis, Vernon Wells, Robert Picardo Cinematography Andrew Laszlo Visual Effects Supervisor Dennis Muren Art Direction James H. Spencer Film Editor Kent Beyda Original Music Jerry Goldsmith Written by Jeffrey Boam, Chip Proser, story by Chip Proser Produced by Michael Finnell, Peter Guber, Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, Jon Peters, Chip Proser, Steven Spielberg Directed by Joe Dante
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
Warner Home Video shows...
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
Warner Home Video shows...
- 8/31/2015
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
It takes a lot of work to get films right. This means that a lot of changes occur throughout the history of the film. Sometimes this happens in the writing stage, or during pre-production, or while shooting, even when editing. However there are some ideas that you would think a creative team would immediately recognize as bad. The latest addition to this list comes from Gremlins, after Joe Dante admitted that they tried to use a monkey to play one of the titular beasts. However there was just one problem; the monkey did what was completely natural to him and simply wreaked havoc across the editing suite. Joe Dante made this revelation to Yahoo, admitting that alongside producer Michael Finnell and executive producer Steven Spielberg, the trio struggled to figure out how to create these characters in a pre-cgi era. During this process the flirtation of using animals as the...
- 6/23/2015
- cinemablend.com
"I remember a time of chaos... but most of all, I remember the Road Warrior. The man we called 'Max.'" In anticipation of the Mad Max: Fury Road premiere, the 35+ year history of George Miller's dystopian franchise is celebrated in a new featurette. Also included in our latest round-up is a newly announced Blu-ray from Scream Factory that should please Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross fans, as well as the special features and cover art for Warner Bros.' Innerspace high-definition home media release.
Mad Max: Fury Road: Press Release -- "From director George Miller, originator of the post-apocalyptic genre and mastermind behind the legendary “Mad Max” franchise, comes “Mad Max: Fury Road,” a return to the world of the Road Warrior, Max Rockatansky.
Haunted by his turbulent past, Mad Max believes the best way to survive is to wander alone. Nevertheless, he becomes swept up with...
Mad Max: Fury Road: Press Release -- "From director George Miller, originator of the post-apocalyptic genre and mastermind behind the legendary “Mad Max” franchise, comes “Mad Max: Fury Road,” a return to the world of the Road Warrior, Max Rockatansky.
Haunted by his turbulent past, Mad Max believes the best way to survive is to wander alone. Nevertheless, he becomes swept up with...
- 4/16/2015
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Even though it may seem hard to believe, it has now been 30 years since Joe Dante first introduced us to the world of Kingston Falls and an adorable little Mogwai, named Gizmo, who would forever change it after being gifted to one of its residents as a Christmas present in Gremlins.
Daily Dead recently chatted with special effects pioneer Chris Walas to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Gremlins, which took place over the weekend. Walas is the mastermind behind Gizmo and his Gremlin counterparts, and was also tasked with the various puppetry and f/x approaches that Dante would need in order to sell the authenticity of the Mogwai running amok.
In this second part of our interview with Walas, he discusses the challenges he faced using some of the more inventive puppetry he created for the film, what his favorite Gremlin is and gives us a rundown of two...
Daily Dead recently chatted with special effects pioneer Chris Walas to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Gremlins, which took place over the weekend. Walas is the mastermind behind Gizmo and his Gremlin counterparts, and was also tasked with the various puppetry and f/x approaches that Dante would need in order to sell the authenticity of the Mogwai running amok.
In this second part of our interview with Walas, he discusses the challenges he faced using some of the more inventive puppetry he created for the film, what his favorite Gremlin is and gives us a rundown of two...
- 6/10/2014
- by Heather Wixson
- DailyDead
It was back on June 8th, 1984 when Joe Dante’s now-classic horror comedy Gremlins arrived in theaters for the very first time, pushing the boundaries of PG-rated entertainment and delivering a timeless tale with some of most memorable cinematic creatures that were created by special effects artist Chris Walas.
At the time, Walas only had a handful of credits to his name, including Humanoids from the Deep, Piranha, Scanners and Raiders of the Lost Ark, but the rising F/X star would prove to be the perfect artist to tackle the daunting task of bringing both the Mogwai and Gremlins to life. Considering that Walas’ special effects work on Gremlins still remains one of the most impressive feats of practical F/X mastery in film history, we thought that speaking with the man behind the monsters would be the perfect way to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Dante’s beloved dark comedy.
At the time, Walas only had a handful of credits to his name, including Humanoids from the Deep, Piranha, Scanners and Raiders of the Lost Ark, but the rising F/X star would prove to be the perfect artist to tackle the daunting task of bringing both the Mogwai and Gremlins to life. Considering that Walas’ special effects work on Gremlins still remains one of the most impressive feats of practical F/X mastery in film history, we thought that speaking with the man behind the monsters would be the perfect way to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Dante’s beloved dark comedy.
- 6/7/2014
- by Heather Wixson
- DailyDead
We’ve been provided with details on a special screening of Gremlins and a prop exhibit that will be taking place in Portsmouth, New Hampshire on December 11th:
“Portsmouth, Nh – Seacoast Repertory Theatre is proud to announce that Let’s “B” Reel: Cult Classic Films at The Rep will screen Joe Dante’s Gremlins with special appearance by Producer Michael Finnell December 11th, 2013. In addition to the special appearance, before and after the screening there will be an exclusive exhibit of Gremlins props on display, that are exclusively on loan from Director, Joe Dante. Some props include “Peltzer Inventions” The Bathroom Buddy, and more. The crowning jewel of this exhibit is an exceptionally rare 1984 screen-used Gremlin puppet, restored by Tom Spina and provided by private collector Richard D’Andrea.
“We are extremely excited to have key members of the film’s production team here for this special screening” says Knate Higgins,...
“Portsmouth, Nh – Seacoast Repertory Theatre is proud to announce that Let’s “B” Reel: Cult Classic Films at The Rep will screen Joe Dante’s Gremlins with special appearance by Producer Michael Finnell December 11th, 2013. In addition to the special appearance, before and after the screening there will be an exclusive exhibit of Gremlins props on display, that are exclusively on loan from Director, Joe Dante. Some props include “Peltzer Inventions” The Bathroom Buddy, and more. The crowning jewel of this exhibit is an exceptionally rare 1984 screen-used Gremlin puppet, restored by Tom Spina and provided by private collector Richard D’Andrea.
“We are extremely excited to have key members of the film’s production team here for this special screening” says Knate Higgins,...
- 11/20/2013
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
The Movie Pool wonders if the Newsies 20th Anniversary Blu-ray delivers!
The Set-up
A musical about a group of young newspaper vendors in turn-of-the-century New York City who go on strike to protest a cut in pay. Stars Christian Bale, Bill Pullman, Ann-Margret and Robert Duvall.
Directed by Kenny Ortega
The Delivery
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2012, Newsies is a musical whose reputation has grown with time. It even has its own Broadway play now, but back in the day, Newsies was a flop in theaters with less than $3 million in ticket sales.
It is easy to see why the film has gained a following, and now lives on in live revivals. It is an interesting story and has a certain charm. The performances are very good, and the film is very entertaining at times. Christian Bale is great in the lead role, but I'll be honest, this film has killed my impression of him.
The Set-up
A musical about a group of young newspaper vendors in turn-of-the-century New York City who go on strike to protest a cut in pay. Stars Christian Bale, Bill Pullman, Ann-Margret and Robert Duvall.
Directed by Kenny Ortega
The Delivery
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2012, Newsies is a musical whose reputation has grown with time. It even has its own Broadway play now, but back in the day, Newsies was a flop in theaters with less than $3 million in ticket sales.
It is easy to see why the film has gained a following, and now lives on in live revivals. It is an interesting story and has a certain charm. The performances are very good, and the film is very entertaining at times. Christian Bale is great in the lead role, but I'll be honest, this film has killed my impression of him.
- 7/16/2012
- by feeds@themoviepool.com (Victor Medina)
- Cinelinx
Chicago – The generation raised on movies of the ’80s is now the one that buys the most Blu-rays. And so it makes sense that more and more of the films of our youth are hitting the format. Again. And again. Lionsgate has turned releasing and re-releasing “Dirty Dancing” into an art form (and would never pass up the 25th anniversary without another re-release). And Warner Bros. has finally given both “Gremlins” and “Gremlins 2” an HD polish although one wishes they had given more care and love to Joe Dante’s gems. Oh yeah, you can also now own “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights” on Blu-ray if there’s anyone out there who considers that valuable information.
It may say something about the war of the sexes but I imagine more men would choose the “Gremlins” 2-pack and more women would lean toward the “Dirty Dancing” 2-film collection on the new releases shelf.
It may say something about the war of the sexes but I imagine more men would choose the “Gremlins” 2-pack and more women would lean toward the “Dirty Dancing” 2-film collection on the new releases shelf.
- 5/15/2012
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Today, people, is a very good day. A day we've been anticipating for quite some time. Warner Brothers has officially unleashed the madness and mayhem of both Gremlins and Gremlins 2: The New Batch on Blu-ray, and we have a couple of clips and the skinny on the extras. Dig it!
“Gremlins is a wildly original roller-coaster ride of hilarious mischief. One minute your hair will stand on end, the next you’ll hold your sides with laughter at the havoc these supposedly gentle furballs create when the rules surrounding their care and feeding are inadvertently broken one fateful Christmas. Written by Chris Columbus and directed by Joe Dante, Gremlins unleashes special effects that dazzle and enchant and merriment that lingers in the memory. And isn’t that “what superior popular moviemaking is all about” (Richard Corliss, Time).”
Gremlins Special Features
Audio commentary with director Joe Dante and stars Phoebe Cates,...
“Gremlins is a wildly original roller-coaster ride of hilarious mischief. One minute your hair will stand on end, the next you’ll hold your sides with laughter at the havoc these supposedly gentle furballs create when the rules surrounding their care and feeding are inadvertently broken one fateful Christmas. Written by Chris Columbus and directed by Joe Dante, Gremlins unleashes special effects that dazzle and enchant and merriment that lingers in the memory. And isn’t that “what superior popular moviemaking is all about” (Richard Corliss, Time).”
Gremlins Special Features
Audio commentary with director Joe Dante and stars Phoebe Cates,...
- 5/8/2012
- by Uncle Creepy
- DreadCentral.com
Gremlins was a big part of, what I’ll assume is most of our childhood movie memories. It’s a horror movie, yet easily accessible by fans of all ages. It’s scary, but contains just the right amount of comic relief to perfectly straddle the line between intense, and entertaining. It’s also credited with playing a key role in the creation of the PG-13 MPAA rating. A few years ago, Gremlins was released for the first time on the Blu Ray format. Being available in the best possible format for the perfect home movie viewing experience, will make the yearly holiday ritual of re-watching the movie, better than it ever was.
At that point in time, only the original film was released to Blu Ray. That is, until now. On May 8th, Warner Brothers will finally be releasing the meta sequel, Gremlins 2: The New Batch to Blu Ray.
At that point in time, only the original film was released to Blu Ray. That is, until now. On May 8th, Warner Brothers will finally be releasing the meta sequel, Gremlins 2: The New Batch to Blu Ray.
- 5/8/2012
- by Shawn Savage
- The Liberal Dead
Hammer’s restoration project is great news!
The other day, the newly resurrected Hammer Films announced news to make our heart sing: in association with some key partners, they would be launching a significant restoration of many of the studios classic titles. Or, as the boring press release stuff says:
In a landmark collaboration, Hammer today announced that Studiocanal, Anolis Entertainment (Germany), Pinewood, illuminate Hollywood fka Htv and others are coming together to undertake a major restoration of the iconic Hammer film library. The project will bring over 30 movies into HD format for Blu-ray and new media exploitation in the 21st Century. This represents substantial investment by Hammer and its key partner Studiocanal, and is testimony to the extraordinary regard with which the Hammer legacy is held internationally, with some materials for the project being provided by Hammer’s original Us production partners Twentieth Century Fox, Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures.
The other day, the newly resurrected Hammer Films announced news to make our heart sing: in association with some key partners, they would be launching a significant restoration of many of the studios classic titles. Or, as the boring press release stuff says:
In a landmark collaboration, Hammer today announced that Studiocanal, Anolis Entertainment (Germany), Pinewood, illuminate Hollywood fka Htv and others are coming together to undertake a major restoration of the iconic Hammer film library. The project will bring over 30 movies into HD format for Blu-ray and new media exploitation in the 21st Century. This represents substantial investment by Hammer and its key partner Studiocanal, and is testimony to the extraordinary regard with which the Hammer legacy is held internationally, with some materials for the project being provided by Hammer’s original Us production partners Twentieth Century Fox, Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures.
- 1/19/2012
- by Danny
- Trailers from Hell
It wasn't easy to decide what to do for Memorial Day here in the states and tie it to horror. Being a holiday today, the news is slow so we figured we would pick out a classic film, blow the dust off of it and give the proper attention it deserves...
Deciding what the film would prove to be the hard part. But out of nowhere it came to us like a beacon of light shining down from the heavens. How about a look back at "The 'Burbs", a film that certainly has its foothold in Americana and even has an Army war veteran ala Lt. Rumsfield which is a striking resemblance to Dale Gribble from the animated sitcom "King of the Hill". I would go so far as to say that the creators of "King of the Hill" must have based Gribble's character after Rumsfield they are so similar.
Deciding what the film would prove to be the hard part. But out of nowhere it came to us like a beacon of light shining down from the heavens. How about a look back at "The 'Burbs", a film that certainly has its foothold in Americana and even has an Army war veteran ala Lt. Rumsfield which is a striking resemblance to Dale Gribble from the animated sitcom "King of the Hill". I would go so far as to say that the creators of "King of the Hill" must have based Gribble's character after Rumsfield they are so similar.
- 5/31/2010
- by admin
- Horrorbid
While Blu-ray fans and film aficionados will be heading out to stores to pick up "The Wizard of Oz," Warner Bros. Home Video and Target is offering up an exclusive on another film classic: the 1984 comedy "Gremlins."
The blockbuster comedy, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, hits Blu-ray for the first time in the States with a Target-exclusive release. It offers up the maniacal gremlins in 1080p and a Dolby TrueHD audio track.
Special features are said to include over 10 minutes of deleted scenes, a making of-featurette, photo galleries, and the theatrical trailer. Also include are two commentaries: one with director Joe Dante, Zack Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Dick Miller, and Howie Mandell, and the other with director Joe Dante, producer Michael Finnell, and special effects artist Christ Walas.
"Gremlins" is the first of Target-exclusive Blu-ray releases. An exclusive release of another 80's classic, "The Goonies," is rumored to be released in November.
The blockbuster comedy, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, hits Blu-ray for the first time in the States with a Target-exclusive release. It offers up the maniacal gremlins in 1080p and a Dolby TrueHD audio track.
Special features are said to include over 10 minutes of deleted scenes, a making of-featurette, photo galleries, and the theatrical trailer. Also include are two commentaries: one with director Joe Dante, Zack Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Dick Miller, and Howie Mandell, and the other with director Joe Dante, producer Michael Finnell, and special effects artist Christ Walas.
"Gremlins" is the first of Target-exclusive Blu-ray releases. An exclusive release of another 80's classic, "The Goonies," is rumored to be released in November.
- 9/28/2009
- icelebz.com
Before DreamWorks' big soldiers invade cinemas in a fortnight -- with top general Steven Spielberg's third directorial effort to be released in the past 15 months -- there's Joe Dante's fun, well-crafted "Small Soldiers" to remind audiences that not all summer films are more visceral than visionary.
A refreshing, Dantesque spin on capitalism gone awry when advanced military technology is inadvertently used in mass-produced toys, "Soldiers" is a goofy/scary idea with a nostalgic/satiric tone that probably means mixed results at the boxoffice, but the DreamWorks-Universal co-production Will More than make up for it in ancillary markets.
With four credited screenwriters, ubiquitous military adviser Capt. Dale Dye and a small army of artists and technicians -- who the press kit claims took a total of "over 16 man-years" to create "more than 237 character toys" -- "Soldiers" is a little lazy when it comes to fleshing out its human characters, but there's enough story to amiably fill in the breaks between the CG-driven sequences of foot-high action figures going on the warpath.
In a brief infomercial prologue, we're introduced to the reformed military contractor Globotech on a mission to turn civilian. Company commander Gil Mars (Denis Leary) expects big things from a newly acquired toy manufacturer, and his instant big bucks lure two nerdy types (Jay Mohr, David Cross) to put state-of-the-art computer chips in conventional action figures.
Of course, it's hardly believable that these updated GI Joes would become wisecracking terrors able to build a siege weapon capable of launching flaming tennis balls, but that's where the generally snappy dialogue delivered by the likes of Tommy Lee Jones and Frank Langella (as the two leaders of opposing forces) saves the day. One gets easily caught up in the conflict between the Gorgonites and Commando Elite -- both sets of toys display "real intelligence" -- and Langella's programmed-to-lose Archer is a sympathetic, peaceful counterpart to Jones' show-no-mercy warmonger Chip Hazard.
Indeed, a good deal of time is given over to Archer's getting to know the young male lead, Alan (Gregory Smith), whose father (Kevin Dunn) owns a struggling independent toy store. It's Alan who inadvertently discovers the secret of the new Globotech products and becomes a target of the Commandos -- which include four roughnecks voiced by Ernest Borgnine, Jim Brown, George Kennedy and Clint Walker, all veterans of the 1967 classic "The Dirty Dozen".
There are numerous pop culture references -- from famous lines taken from other sources to a climactic mini-helicopter attack a la "Apocalypse Now" to composer Jerry Goldsmith using parts of his own "Patton" score -- and Dante even throws in scenes from "The Crawling Eye" to jog the memories of baby boomers raised on monster movies.
Kirsten Dunst is appealing as Alan's would-be girlfriend, and she lets loose in the movie's wildest scene involving the destruction of mutant Gwendy dolls. Her materialistic father is played with bullheaded energy by the late Phil Hartman, who is tastefully mourned in an outtake placed at the close of the end credits followed by the simple tribute "For Phil". Ann Magnuson as Alan's take-charge mom is wonderful in the deadly siege of the Commandos against the Gorgonites and their human allies.
Bruce Dern, Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, Harry Shearer, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Christina Ricci also lend their vocal talents to the colorfully named cast of toys. While the film was surely a logistical/technical headache for cinematographer Jamie Anderson, production designer William Sandell, animation supervisor David Andrews, visual effects supervisor Stefen Fangmeier and action-figure designer Stan Winston, the engaging "Soldiers" does not seduce one only with its remarkable ingenuity -- the best special effect of all.
SMALL SOLDIERS
DreamWorks Distribution
DreamWorks Pictures and Universal Pictures
Director: Joe Dante
Screenwriters: Gavin Scott, Adam Rifkin,
Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio
Producers: Michael Finnell, Colin Wilson
Executive producer: Walter Parkes
Director of photography: Jamie Anderson
Production designer: William Sandell
Editor: Marshall Harvey
Costume designer: Carole Brown-James
Animation supervisor: David Andrews
Visual effects supervisor: Stefen Fangmeier
Action figures/animatronics design: Stan Winston
Music: Jerry Goldsmith
Casting: Denise Chamian
Color/stereo
Cast:
Alan Abernathy: Gregory Smith
Christy Fimple: Kirsten Dunst
Larry Benson: Jay Mohr
Irwin Wayfair: David Cross
Phil Fimple: Phil Hartman
Stuart Abernathy: Kevin Dunn
Irene Abernathy: Ann Magnuson
Gil Mars: Denis Leary
Voice of Chip Hazard: Tommy Lee Jones
Voice of Archer: Frank Langella
Running time -- 109 minutes
MPAA rating: PG-13...
A refreshing, Dantesque spin on capitalism gone awry when advanced military technology is inadvertently used in mass-produced toys, "Soldiers" is a goofy/scary idea with a nostalgic/satiric tone that probably means mixed results at the boxoffice, but the DreamWorks-Universal co-production Will More than make up for it in ancillary markets.
With four credited screenwriters, ubiquitous military adviser Capt. Dale Dye and a small army of artists and technicians -- who the press kit claims took a total of "over 16 man-years" to create "more than 237 character toys" -- "Soldiers" is a little lazy when it comes to fleshing out its human characters, but there's enough story to amiably fill in the breaks between the CG-driven sequences of foot-high action figures going on the warpath.
In a brief infomercial prologue, we're introduced to the reformed military contractor Globotech on a mission to turn civilian. Company commander Gil Mars (Denis Leary) expects big things from a newly acquired toy manufacturer, and his instant big bucks lure two nerdy types (Jay Mohr, David Cross) to put state-of-the-art computer chips in conventional action figures.
Of course, it's hardly believable that these updated GI Joes would become wisecracking terrors able to build a siege weapon capable of launching flaming tennis balls, but that's where the generally snappy dialogue delivered by the likes of Tommy Lee Jones and Frank Langella (as the two leaders of opposing forces) saves the day. One gets easily caught up in the conflict between the Gorgonites and Commando Elite -- both sets of toys display "real intelligence" -- and Langella's programmed-to-lose Archer is a sympathetic, peaceful counterpart to Jones' show-no-mercy warmonger Chip Hazard.
Indeed, a good deal of time is given over to Archer's getting to know the young male lead, Alan (Gregory Smith), whose father (Kevin Dunn) owns a struggling independent toy store. It's Alan who inadvertently discovers the secret of the new Globotech products and becomes a target of the Commandos -- which include four roughnecks voiced by Ernest Borgnine, Jim Brown, George Kennedy and Clint Walker, all veterans of the 1967 classic "The Dirty Dozen".
There are numerous pop culture references -- from famous lines taken from other sources to a climactic mini-helicopter attack a la "Apocalypse Now" to composer Jerry Goldsmith using parts of his own "Patton" score -- and Dante even throws in scenes from "The Crawling Eye" to jog the memories of baby boomers raised on monster movies.
Kirsten Dunst is appealing as Alan's would-be girlfriend, and she lets loose in the movie's wildest scene involving the destruction of mutant Gwendy dolls. Her materialistic father is played with bullheaded energy by the late Phil Hartman, who is tastefully mourned in an outtake placed at the close of the end credits followed by the simple tribute "For Phil". Ann Magnuson as Alan's take-charge mom is wonderful in the deadly siege of the Commandos against the Gorgonites and their human allies.
Bruce Dern, Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, Harry Shearer, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Christina Ricci also lend their vocal talents to the colorfully named cast of toys. While the film was surely a logistical/technical headache for cinematographer Jamie Anderson, production designer William Sandell, animation supervisor David Andrews, visual effects supervisor Stefen Fangmeier and action-figure designer Stan Winston, the engaging "Soldiers" does not seduce one only with its remarkable ingenuity -- the best special effect of all.
SMALL SOLDIERS
DreamWorks Distribution
DreamWorks Pictures and Universal Pictures
Director: Joe Dante
Screenwriters: Gavin Scott, Adam Rifkin,
Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio
Producers: Michael Finnell, Colin Wilson
Executive producer: Walter Parkes
Director of photography: Jamie Anderson
Production designer: William Sandell
Editor: Marshall Harvey
Costume designer: Carole Brown-James
Animation supervisor: David Andrews
Visual effects supervisor: Stefen Fangmeier
Action figures/animatronics design: Stan Winston
Music: Jerry Goldsmith
Casting: Denise Chamian
Color/stereo
Cast:
Alan Abernathy: Gregory Smith
Christy Fimple: Kirsten Dunst
Larry Benson: Jay Mohr
Irwin Wayfair: David Cross
Phil Fimple: Phil Hartman
Stuart Abernathy: Kevin Dunn
Irene Abernathy: Ann Magnuson
Gil Mars: Denis Leary
Voice of Chip Hazard: Tommy Lee Jones
Voice of Archer: Frank Langella
Running time -- 109 minutes
MPAA rating: PG-13...
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