Top 10 Favorite Films of 2015

2015 was a very strong year for film, which made this list that much harder to come up with. Lots of strong films and lots of great stories, but I managed to whittle this down to my 10 favorite films of the year.

But first, some quick honorable mentions:

- It Follows
The best horror movie of the year and one that sticks with you long after it's over.

- Southpaw
Any other year this might've cracked my top 10, but in 2015 there was that other boxing movie to consider (more on that one later).

- Ant Man / Avengers: Age of Ultron
Further proof that Marvel truly has the golden touch.

- The Peanuts Movie
Pure unadulterated joy and nostalgia. I couldn't stop smiling.

And now, here is the Top 10 of 2015:

10. The Walk
Robert Zemeckis' retelling of Phillipe Pettit's illegal 1974 tight rope walk between the Twin Towers is tons of fun and utterly charming, thanks in large part to Joseph Gordon-Levitt's performance as Pettit. The actual walk is a knockout, but it's the final line and shot of the film that was the most emotional moment of the year for me.

9. Inside Out
Absolutely brilliant storytelling by the masters at Pixar. This was both a wonderful animated tale and a thoughtful exploration of human emotions and where sadness fits in our lives. An instant animated classic.

8. Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation
Five films in, this franchise is aging like fine wine. Tom Cruise is just effortlessly great at this point as Ethan Hunt and Rebecca Ferguson was a revelation as his female match. Awesome action set pieces and great supporting performances (particularly from Simon Pegg) seal the deal.

7. Ex Machina
Maybe the most thought provoking film of the year, this thriller about the testing of the world's most sophisticated Artificial Intelligence features a trio of great performances from Domnhall Gleeson, Oscar Isaac and Alicia Vikander. At a time when technology is leaping ahead at an alarming rate, this movie asks some truly pertinent (and scary) questions.

6. The Martian
Sci-fi entertainment done right. Legendary director Ridley Scott is in top form here, delivering an intelligent and riveting tale about the triumph of the human spirit. As an astronaut stranded on Mars surviving while awaiting rescue, Matt Damon is an absolute joy to watch (as is the rest of a stellar supporting cast).

5. The Revenant
This is about as visceral a movie as you're likely to see. Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's The Revenant takes us on a journey filled with breathtaking sequences of brutality and of beauty. Leonardo Dicaprio gives a performance for the ages in what is sure to be his first Oscar winning role.

4. Straight Outta Compton
The story of the world's most dangerous rap group was absolute dynamite. Strong performances and an awesome soundtrack (of course) carry a narrative full of themes that are sadly just as relevant today as they ever were. Whether a fan of hip-hop or not, this is a must see.

3. Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Ladies and Gentlemen, it lived up to the hype. The seventh episode of the biggest movie franchise of all time was thrilling, hilarious, emotional but most of all supremely entertaining. Thank you J.J. Abrams for bringing Star Wars back in a big way!

2. Creed
Writer/director Ryan Coogler managed to pay respect to the Rocky Saga while simultaneously laying the groundwork for it's continuation. A rousing story coupled with fantastic performances from Michael B. Jordan, Tessa Thompson and, Rocky himself, Sylvester Stallone make this flick an absolute knockout.

1. Mad Max: Fury Road
Good lord, this movie was a rush! Director George Miller brought this classic franchise back from a 30 year hiatus and delivered one of the greatest action movies of all time. From the performances, to the scenery, to the stunt choreography, it is all a glorious sight to behold. Take notes, kiddies. This is a master at work.

And that's a wrap for 2015. 2016 has a tough act to follow, here's hoping it delivers. Be sure to check out stickmanmovieblog.blogspot.com for additional movie article goodness. And as always, much thanks to Jason Burgos at cheapseatschatter.com for the support! 'Till next time, folks!

Top 10 James Bond Theme Songs

Throughout movie history, many icons have emerged.  However, few have made as lasting an impression as Bond...James Bond.  There are plenty of things to love about the Bond series: the cars, the gadgets, the Bond Girls (!!!), but perhaps just as memorable as any of these has been the music.  With the latest Bond flick, Spectre, out now along with Sam Smith's theme song for the film, Writings on the Wall, I thought it'd be fun to take a look back at the 10 most memorable songs the Bond franchise has produced.

(note: click on the song name to give it a listen)


10. "The World is Not Enough"
Garbage (1999)

When thinking of potential artists for a Bond theme, the band Garbage doesn't exactly spring to mind. But with this tune, elevated by a fantastic musical arrangement and Shirley Manson's sexy vocal performance, they showed they were more than up to the task.


9. "For Your Eyes Only"
Sheena Easton (1981)

Bill Conti, best known for writing the the legendary score for Rocky, penned this ballad with Donna Summer or Dusty Springfield in mind to sing. But it was Sheena Easton who got the job and it was a great fit. This sultry tune got as high as #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned an Oscar Nomination for Best Original Song.


8. "You Only Live Twice"
Nancy Sinatra (1967)

The incomparable Nancy Sinatra lent her vocals to this classic Bond track from 1967. One of the more popular themes, it's been covered by such notable artists as Coldplay and Bjork (and fans of Robbie Williams' 1998 hit 'Millenium' will undoubtedly recognize the opening bars). Still, no one can match the magic Mrs. Sinatra brought to the record.


7. "Goldeneye"
Tina Turner (1995)

Written by Bono and The Edge of U2 fame and sung by the immortal Tina Turner, this theme had some serious talent behind it. Just a damn cool track and the perfect Bond theme to usher in the Pierce Brosnan era.


6. "A View to a Kill"
Duran Duran (1985)

Sure this theme (and intro sequence) is pure 80's, but man does it work! Duran Duran were at the height of their popularity when they were asked to cut this track. And they delivered: it's the only Bond theme to hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.


5. "You Know My Name"
Chris Cornell (2006)

When producers decided to hit the reset button on Bond for 2006's Casino Royale, they brought some juice back to the franchise. The same went for the title song, with Chris Cornell putting out an awesome rock track which reminded everyone that although it was a new face in the role, you still knew his name...


4. "Diamonds Are Forever"
Shirley Bassey (1971)

Known as the queen of Bond themes (she sang 3), no one did a Bond opener like Shirley Bassey. This haunting melody is one of her finest moments.  Showcasing her powerhouse vocals and a brilliant arrangement, the song effortlessly captures the essence of early Bond and results in a theme for the ages.


3. "Skyfall"
Adele (2012)

Back in 2012, Adele had swept the Grammys and topped the charts. So it was a no-brainer for the Bond franchise to capitalize on her momentum for this number. A throwback to the Bond themes of old, she delivers an instant classic which went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song, Bond's first Oscar in 47 years.


2. "Live and Let Die"
Paul McCartney & Wings (1973)

When you get a former member of The Beatles to come up with your theme song, I think it's fair to expect something extraordinary.  Sir Paul definitely delivered the goods with this absolute classic from 1973.  A sublime opening gives way to a musical explosion once the song truly kicks in at around the 30 second mark, at which point you just have to hang on and go along for the ride.


1. "Goldfinger"
Shirley Bassey (1964)

The quintessential Bond theme.  From the moment the brass section comes blaring in at the start, you know you're in for something special.  The queen, Shirley Bassey, is in top form here and the song just oozes the style that has come to define the franchise.  It has inspired countless themes that have come after (and not just Bond themes, either) but none can touch it.  This was the template.  The benchmark.  The greatest Bond theme of all time.


And that wraps up the list.  Thank you to everyone for having a look and please feel free to chime in with comments and feedback below.  'Till next time folks!

Stickman's Top 10 Favorite Films of 2014

When I sat down to prepare this list, I realized something...2014 was a damn good year for movies. Narrowing the list down to just 10 meant leaving off some movies that I thoroughly enjoyed and likely would have made my top 10 any other year. But that's a fine complaint to have, and I'll that over a down year anytime. So, after much deliberation, it's time to get into my 10 favorite flicks of 2014.

But first, some honorable mentions...

-Birdman
Definitely a one of a kind vision with great technical tricks and the welcome resurrection of Michael Keaton's career.

-Big Hero 6
Disney and Marvel's animated collaboration was a visual treat with a big heart.

-The Equalizer
My guilty pleasure of 2014. The latest "Denzel in one-man-army mode" flick was just a downright cool ride.

-X-Men: Days of Future Past
Bryan Singer's triumphant return to the franchise he helped bring to life very nearly cracked my top 10. Oh, and in just a few minutes of screen time, Quicksilver damn near steals the whole show.

And now, on to the Top 10...

10. The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies
I came into Peter Jackson's final trip to Middle Earth expecting a fond farewell to a beloved franchise. I got much more than I bargained for. Easily the best of the new trilogy, Five Armies was packed with tons of action and tons of heart. A fitting end, indeed.

9. Gone Girl
Hollywood needs David Fincher. He goes places very few mainstream filmmakers dare to go, and Gone Girl is no different. This thing has more twists than a corkscrew, with style and great performances to spare (Rosamund Pike in particular, and a very cool Tyler Perry in a very Non-Madea role). Strap yourself in for a ride with this one.

8. Selma
A powerful film with a message that is just as relevant in 2015 as it was 50 years ago. Selma is an honest, unflinching portrait of the Civil Rights Movement and the politics behind scenes. Films like this are a reminder of the fight for equality this nation has gone through...a fight that continues to this day.

7. The Grand Budapest Hotel
This one was a trip. Wes Anderson definitely has his own style, and it's in full effect with this hilarious 1930's crime caper. With it's impeccable comic timing and scenes that are like little paintings come to life, there wasn't another movie in 2014 like it.

6. American Sniper
A controversial movie to be sure, American Sniper is nonetheless absolutely gripping from start to finish. Featuring a memorable performance from Bradley Cooper, it is a powerful study on the effects of war and the aftermath of those effects. Whatever your thoughts on Chris Kyle himself, the impact of this film can still be felt.

5. The LEGO Movie
The Academy got this one wrong. Dead wrong. Not only was this the best animated movie of the year, it is one of the funniest, most quotable movies I've seen in a long, long while. Too many laughs to go over here, just do yourself a favor and see this thing if you haven't already...and just try to get that song out of your head!

4. Whiplash
How far is too far? That's the main question asked by this film about a music student who will go to any lengths to become one of the greats and the teacher who will cross the line to get it out of him. No actor was more terrifying in 2014 than J.K. Simmons as Terence Fletcher. This movie has a hell of a pulse, and the last 15 minutes will keep you glued to the screen.

3. Captain America: The Winter Soldier
It has to be said: Captain America is my guy. He's my favorite Marvel Superhero and this is the Cap movie I've always wanted. Part kick ass action flick, part political thriller, all awesome, this Marvel offering was firing on all cylinders. Loved every minute of it.

2. Boyhood
This film was made over 12 years, and everyone involved should be damn proud of the result. Funny, touching and insightful, there isn't a wasted minute and it shows us how every life is a story worth telling and an event worth celebrating. This is as close to living and breathing as any film I've ever seen.

1. Guardians of the Galaxy
No movie had me smiling ear to ear in 2014 more than Guardians. From the moment Star Lord goes dancing across a barren landscape to the sounds of "Come and Get Your Love" I was hooked, and it never let go. And though they weren't as well known as some of Marvel's other heroes, they were household names after this one dropped and for good reason. Full of action and laughs by the pound, nobody brought the fun and thrills like this band of space misfits. Thus it's my favorite film 2014.

And that's a wrap for 2014. Here's hoping 2015 delivers the goods as well. 'Til next time, Stickman signing off.

The 40 Greatest Disney Songs of All Time

With the success of Disney's latest animated feature film, Frozen, I thought it'd be a good time to put a spotlight on one of the things that makes Disney's animated films so beloved: the music. Almost as important as the stories themselves, the songs in these films have helped them become classics to generations of children (and grown ups alike). So here is a rundown of Stickman Cinema's list of the 40 Greatest Disney Songs of All Time! As always, feel free to post your thoughts in the comments section below...

(Note: the list only includes songs from their animated movies...sorry, Mary Poppins fans)

40. Down to Earth (Wall-E)
39. When She Loved Me (Toy Story 2)
38. I'll Make a Man Out of You (Mulan)
37. Prince Ali (Aladdin)
36. Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride (Lilo & Stitch)
35. Heigh Ho (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs)
34. Trashin' the Camp (Tarzan)
33. This is Halloween (The Nightmare Before Christmas)
32. Cruella De Vil (101 Dalmatians)
31. Someday My Prince Will Come (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs)
30. Friend Like Me (Aladdin)
29. Colors of the Wind (Pocahontas)
28. Go the Distance (Hercules)
27. Reflection (Mulan)
26. If I Didn't Have You (Monsters, Inc.)
25. Son of Man (Tarzan)
24. Can You Feel the Love Tonight (The Lion King)
23. A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes (Cinderella)
22. Everybody Wants to be a Cat (The Aristocats)
21. He's A Tramp (Lady and the Tramp)
20. Hakuna Matata (The Lion King)
19. Kiss the Girl (The Little Mermaid)
18. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)
17. When I See an Elephant Fly (Dumbo)
16. Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo (Cinderella)
15. What's This? (The Nightmare Before Christmas)
14. I Wan'na Be Like You (The Jungle Book)
13. Baby Mine (Dumbo)
12. I Just Can't Wait to be King (The Lion King)
11. You'll Be In My Heart (Tarzan)
10. You Got a Friend in Me (Toy Story)
9. Once Upon a Dream (Sleeping Beauty)
8. Bare Necessities (The Jungle Book)
7. Be Our Guest (Beauty and the Beast)
6. Under the Sea (The Little Mermaid)
5. Part of Your World (The Little Mermaid)
4. A Whole New World (Aladdin)
3. Circle of Life (The Lion King)
2. Beauty and the Beast (Beauty and the Beast)
1. When You Wish Upon A Star (Pinocchio)

Stickman Cinema Favorites: The Last Dragon

The Last Dragon

(1985)

Everyone has one of these.  That one movie you've seen a hundred times, never get tired of watching, can quote from beginning to end and yet you can't really explain why.  That movie for me, hands down, is Berry Gordy's The Last Dragon.

For all intents and purposes, this movie shouldn't even exist.  I mean, it's the story of Leroy Green, a soft spoken Kung-Fu master from Harlem who meets and falls in love with Laura Charles, a famous Video DJ show host.  He repeatedly saves her from Eddie Arkadian (yes, that's his name), a ruthless producer who tries to get Laura to play his latest (and godawful) video on her show by any means necessary.  All the while, Leroy is being pursued by his arch-rival, Sho'nuff (yep, also his name), who is determined to prove once and for all "who is da mastah!"  This all results in a glorious jumble of break dancing, martial arts fighting and bad acting.

It's like a parody, except it's not.  You sit there watching these characters thinking "they CAN'T be serious", but that's what makes them so memorable.  Each one is just such an exaggerated caricature.  Leroy, an African-American talking and acting like an Asian stereotype.  Laura, a diva with her hair teased to within an inch of it's life.  Arkadian, the typical villain who could only be more diabolical if he were twirling his mustache.  But none are bigger, badder and more memorable than the Shogun of Harlem himself, Sho'nuff.  Played by the late Julius J. Carry, he absolutely steals every scene he's in with his over the top antics and quotes that can still be heard today ("Kiss my Converse!").  And all this is without even going into Leroy's leather pants wearing brother Richie, the ditzy Madonna wannabe Angela, Leroy's comic relief / right hand man Johnny, and the rest of the colorful cast of characters that make this movie such a product of it's time.  This movie could not exist in any other decade but the 80's, and that's part of what makes it so charming.  Like Saturday Night Fever, it ends up being a time capsule for a particular era.

The outfits are ludicrous, the dialogue is hilariously corny, and the soundtrack is 80's-tastic.  But damn it if I don't smile watching every ridiculous minute of this movie (and bonus points if you can spot the before-they-were-stars cameos by future Oscar nominees William H. Macy and Chazz Palminteri).  Now can we get a Blu-Ray version already!

Action Movie Madness: Official Tournament Rules

• You can keep tabs on the tournament with the official bracket here: http://challonge.com/actionmoviemadness
• Anyone is eligible to vote...SO TELL YOUR FRIENDS!!!  And be sure to like the Stickman Cinema Facebook page for updates and additional content.
• Only 1 vote per person, per match.  Votes are counted from the time the match is posted until midnight that day.  Any votes posted after that will not be counted.
• Only 1 entry allowed per franchise.  The only exception is James Bond with 2, but they are from completely different eras.
• Super-Hero movies are not included.  They are pretty much a whole separate genre to themselves and will likely have their own tournament in the future.

The Power is in your hands.  Use it wisely.  FIGHT!!!

Quick Thoughts on the 2013 Oscar Nominations

And so...now we have our participants.  Honestly I wasn't sure what to expect as I looked over the list of nominees announced this morning, but I was pleasantly surprised to see many names I was hoping would make the list.  Here are my rapid reactions:

- It's great to see Robert DeNiro headed back to the Oscars for the first time in 21 years.  Though a lot of his recent work has left a lot to be desired, he is still one of the all time greats and it's nice to see him back in fine form.

- I'm very happy for first time nominees Bradley Cooper and Hugh Jackman.  I've been a huge fan of their work for years (Cooper since Wedding Crashers, Jackman since X-Men) and it's very cool to see them get this kind of recognition.  Kudos to them.

- History was made in the Best Actress category...twice.  9 year old Quvenzhane Wallis and 85 year old Emmanuelle Riva are now the youngest and oldest women ever nominated for Best Actress.  That should make for a great photo op.

- As a huge Skyfall fan, it was disappointing (though not unexpected) to find it left off the list for Best Picture.  With the recent announcement that they'll be honoring the Bond franchise's 50th anniversary at the ceremony, how cool would it have been to see Bond up for Best Picture for the first time?

- The biggest snubs came from the Best Director category as heavily favored candidates Ben Affleck and Kathryn Bigelow did not receive nominations for Argo and Zero Dark Thirty, respectively.  Not only were their hopes dashed, the chances of their films winning Best Picture likely went up in smoke as well.

- And finally, if Wreck-It-Ralph doesn't get the win for Best Animated Film..."I'M GONNA WRECK IT!!!"

That's it for now.  More to come in the next few weeks.  Let the games begin!