Saturday, June 7, 2014

HEY YOU GUUUYS: "Goonies" Celebrates 29 Years

Take Richard Donner, add one part Steven Spielberg, and another part Chris Columbus and together you have created a timeless and well-crafted tale that brings excitement and adventure far past its 1985 theatrical release. 

"The Goonies," one of the most beloved films of the 80's, debuted on June 7th, 1985 alongside big name Brat Pack films as well as the first installment of "Back To The Future," if you're wondering what a timeline of events looks like. The performance of young Hollywood loveables combined with witty jokes and Truffle Shuffles made this film a true contender among its '85 competitors and deservingly so.

"Goonies" captured everything one could want in a coming-of-age adventure film- there is motive to save or protect what matters most (the goondocks), a band of misfit locals whose imaginations tend to stretch the truth, the occasional offside or misconstrued romance, and a race against time to offset the trail from the Fratelli's (insert unrelated Chelsea Dagger reference here). You are transported from a creepy attic to a secret hideout which takes you on a cavernous journey only to internally discover what true heroes due in the face of danger: They Never Say Die.

It is a story of bravery and blind faith, to believe so strongly in your fight to save something so dear that you'd risk life, death, jewels, and Baby Ruth candy bars to see that you can succeed. If not for the courage of asthmatic and wide-eyed Mikey Walsh, how could anyone have believed our Goonies could defeat the loser jock? Dodge the preserved and sensitive booby-traps? Accept the help of a disfigured giant? But really, how?

Although there is talk of a Goonies sequel, it would seem like there is no better time for it to happen than now. Some may argue that a sequel is unnecessary, a potential flop. Others privy to the idea. Perhaps, as standards may be rather high, if the entire cast returned and Spielberg was involved, it could make for an entertaining time. For several of the cast members, "Goonies" probably jump-started a lot of their careers, namely those of Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, and Martha Plimpton, whose work in film and television continue to thrive. A sequel would undoubtedly make for some exciting 30th anniversary news, but for now, let us take the time to remember what the Goonies have done for us after 29 years.



Monday, June 2, 2014

I Give It '2 Horns Up'



Forget what you know of Disney's 1959 "Sleeping Beauty." "Maleficent" is every bit as enchanting and magical as its predecessor with a strong overarching alternative to true love and its modern, glamourous makeover of the title character - cheekbones sold separately.

The iconic lineup of classic princesses all revolve around happy endings and hunky arm candy with minimal knowledge of how our antagonists came to be. What seems to be most captivating about this film is the focus of true love and a changed heart from someone whose love was once horrifically betrayed. From an apathetic sorceress to a gentle and courageous fairy, Maleficent learns to embody the value of humility in all of its finest forms, a trait seldom found in any Disney villain.

Maleficent, played by Angelina Jolie, makes her Disney debut in this cinematic masterpiece that, in my opinion, places well among other live-action greats such as 'Pirates of the Caribbean' and 'Enchanted.' The ageless and hauntingly stunning Jolie made this role not only one that showcases her ability to constantly emote fear and beauty simultaneously, but she takes the archetype of villain and puts an otherworldly twist on it.

This incarnation of the classic fairytale digs deeper into the past of its characters and sheds new light on the tale we know so well. I wouldn't be surprised to see several mini versions of Maleficent in a sea of Elsa's and Anna's this Halloween.