Comments from JodarMovieFan

Showing 701 - 725 of 1,053 comments

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about AFI Silver Theatre on May 3, 2008 at 8:36 pm

Steve, maybe that’s what I was referring to. Remember when the Uptown showed a so-called “virgin” print there…not sure if it was 1990 or before but that is/was my first and best experience of that film to date. There was no color degradation, perfect sound and there was some mmmmmmmm during the Stargate corridor sequence. Sitting in that sweet spot and being engulfed in the sound and picture made one feel as if he was in the show.

Trying to keep on topic about the Silver though, it would be nice to get the 70mm movies that Hollywood locales such as the Astro, Academy, Egyptian and even their own sister AFI Arclight get for retrospectives. Again, the Silver seems to show only Lawrence and 2001. Heck, even the Castro gets some decent 70mm bookings of the older films.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about AFI Silver Theatre on May 2, 2008 at 10:40 am

Last night, I caught the last showing of 2001. The print was slightly better than the one I saw last year. No annoying soundtrack ticks but there were print annoyances such as appearing ‘butterfly’ during the “Dawn of Man” sequence and some ghostly film images in the middle. I’m not sure if its just me but the film seemed to be less of an ‘experience’ than in previous times. I believe there was more of subwoofer mmmmmmm during the Stargate Corridor sequence.

Overall, it was nice to visit this classic. Its just seems to be less than what I remember. In the Main News section of the site, they report an Academy screening for the 40th anniversary, perhaps they got a better print than what AFI got?

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Where to see Indiana Jones? on May 1, 2008 at 1:20 pm

I wrote DLP and they tell me that there WILL be a “wide release” of Indiana Jones in DP.

So no 70mm? I guess Lucas' clout and Producer status outweighs Spielberg’s desire at exclusive film presentation of this movie. This is sad. I was reading Entertainment Weekly’s interview with the two and read that Spielberg is quite a film purist. He and his long time editor, Kahn, used a moviola to edit the movie. Talk about old fashioned! And they can’t manage to get at least few 70mm prints made after all that effort? If I were so stubborn (and rich) about doing things like that, I’d spend my own money for the prints. :)

I wrote to Paramount’s East Coast distribution and received no response. I’m trying their group sales to see if that yields any information for either DP or 70mm. I’ll post once I receive a response.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about IMAX will expand into AMC theaters on May 1, 2008 at 12:57 pm

I imagine the July rollouts, in the DC area, will just be in time for the Batman movie. I wonder if the three IMAX screens are all the same size as far as screen and capacity are concerned?

Columbia isn’t a bad venue, but it has a very large teen crowd. The last time I was there, there was a shooting in front of the theater complex, which is a rarity for that area, but still unnerving, nonetheless.

Hoffman is a good venue and right on the Metro line. Since I drive and live across the bridge, its easier for me but parking has been tight given the construction. Perhaps they’ll have enough parking by the time of the IMAX opening. :)

White Marsh was a favorite destination point of mine for moviegoing. When they opened, they were originally Loews Cineplex and all their auditoriums were THX certified. Like Columbia, they have a large teen crowd on weekends and sometimes, if they are in a group, can be disruptive. The last time I was there, we saw 1408 someone let off a stink bomb in the auditorium.

Tysons Corner is the newest AMC venue to open in the DC area. I love their huge wall-to-wall screens though I wish they did a better job with projection and sound. I’m tired of the scratched up presentations, previews and endless pre-show ads.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about AFI Silver Theatre on Apr 29, 2008 at 9:42 am

If film is supposed to be so much better than DP, why do the film’s in the plexes look so awful then? The DP movies I’ve seen over the years looked brighter, sharper and with more contrast than the same films at your local multiplex. No dust, grain, scratches, degradation. Maybe in an optimal setting film is better but in the real world and in our local movie houses, they are not (except maybe AFI and the independents).

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about AFI Silver Theatre on Apr 22, 2008 at 12:01 pm

2001 at the Uptown would be such a great experience. The screen is 2x larger and more user engulfing for that ‘ultimate trip.’

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about AMC Tysons Corner 16 on Apr 22, 2008 at 11:57 am

According to the IMAX website, this location won’t get the IMAX screen until November. The Hoffman 22 and Columbia 14 will precede this install in July. :) If I’m wrong, all the better. I like Tysons better as a shopping destination than Columbia.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about AFI Silver Theatre on Apr 21, 2008 at 11:40 am

They always book 2001. I hope its not the print with the annoying tick that they showed the last time I saw it here. They should book its sequel, 2010, in 70mm, too.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Where to see Indiana Jones? on Apr 10, 2008 at 12:52 pm

Its not Indy4, its any film worthy of the format. Now, if we’re talking Norbit 2: The Next Generation, then I’d take a pass.

The only reason we’re latching on to this is because of the blurb on 70mm.com. I’d probably feel the same about the new Batman since part of it was supposedly filmed in 65mm.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Where to see Indiana Jones? on Apr 10, 2008 at 10:27 am

All right. There should be someone in the know, who peruses this board, or a member, who knows SOMEBODY at Paramount, or Lucasfilm, or otherwise is a distant relative, friend or aquaintance, who knows about 70mm prints for Indy4. If so, someone, please share info, if there may be 70mm prints out there for the release. There are worthy venues out there who would do it justice and I don’t mean any lousy multiplex.. :)

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Where to see Indiana Jones? on Apr 8, 2008 at 10:02 am

Since Paramount is distributing, my bet is that its going to have big Hollywood premiere, most likely at the Chinese Theater. If its 70mm or DP, the house can handle either format. Then they’ll probably take over the Kodak Theater or back to the Paramount lot for a big, big Indy-era themed party.

So, forget about it landing at your favorite theater in Mayberry, USA.

Now, if they do a later east coast ‘premiere’, my guess is yes, do it at the Ziegfeld. Of course our own DC’s Uptown would be a far more worthy auditorium since we have a superior 70' wrap around screen that would far and away convey a better cinematic experience in 70mm hands down, than the Ziggy. If it is DP, they did premiere “The Guardian” there with a big $2M theme opening.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about More 3-D films coming on Apr 4, 2008 at 2:49 pm

Why wouldn’t it be great to see Star Wars & LOTR in 3D Digital? Imagine being smack right in the ‘middle’ of either the battles in space of SW or the battle at Helms Deep in LOTR?

Let’s not be cynical here. If it works and brings people to the movies, then more will come. As posted earlier, Hanna Montana did terrific business and you can bet your dollar that there will be more 3D concerts to come.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Bow Tie Cinemas appoint Chief Film Officer on Apr 4, 2008 at 10:56 am

Congratulations on the promotion. I’m a regular patron of your venues in Annapolis MD and have welcomed the new policy of no on screen advertisements. You’ve got one of the better run plexes in the DC Metro area with consistently decent projection and sound since opening in ‘00 or so. Keep up the good job!

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about More 3-D films coming on Apr 4, 2008 at 10:48 am

We should remember that no matter what the technology, if the story isn’t engaging, it won’t sell. Remember a few years back when Zemeckis' “Polar Express” in IMAX 3D was the BIG thing with its state-of-the-art motion capture techniques? The movie was a bore and the characters behaved not much more than animated zombies. It wasn’t much of a box office or critical success.

Perhaps the often discussed Digital 3D versions of older films such as “Star Wars” saga, the “LOTR” trilogy, etc, etc would bring in new fans and breathe new life into them.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about E Street Cinema on Apr 3, 2008 at 3:04 pm

Giles, do you know if their DP system in 1 is the often rumored Sony 4K system? Judging by your comments, I imagine so.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Fine Arts Theatre on Apr 1, 2008 at 2:25 pm

If the theater closed in ‘94…14 years ago, that’s hardly “decades ago” and plus, that would age me beyond reason! The last time I drove by the spot, it had already been built over and assimilated by a new building. Its gone. As fond as my memories of movie experiences go, I’d prefer the old MacArthur to come back. The building and space is still there even though CVS occupies a small part of it.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Uptown Theatre on Mar 31, 2008 at 7:37 pm

I saw 10000 BC in DP and thoroughly enjoyed the story and presentation, even though it was at a Regal multiplex. It wasn’t the 50' squared off presentation that the Uptown could present in DP, but a decent movie, nonetheless.

To clarify my previous post, I don’t think DP projects on the curve like the way Uptown’s screen is set up. If I’m wrong, I’m sure one of projectionist experts will clarify for us.

And, again correct me if I’m wrong, but I don’t think AMC has booked 70mm anything since it took over this venue.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Uptown Theatre on Mar 31, 2008 at 6:10 pm

Thanks, Howard. An interesting read. I think its fair to say that most of the multiplexes run their films dark. The independents do a better job. Maybe thats why I gravitate to movies digitally exhibited. Its doubtful the movie chains will be able to ensure quality film presentations given the hands that get involved that could ruin it. So, DP is a safer, albeit a compromise for a presentation quality that is consistent given its tech roots.

Back to the Uptown. Even if they can’t project on the curve, I’d settle for a 50ft squared off presentation. Its more than a lot of other venues and with DP can still draw the viewer in to experiencing movies better than most can do now.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about $35 tickets for luxury movie theater on Mar 31, 2008 at 6:00 pm

We’ve beaten the topic of how to save on admission prices to movie theater going to death haven’t we? You’ve got bargain matinees, movie chain club card memberships, discounts at both AAA and Costco, etc etc. If theater refreshments are too high, eat before/after the show, or sneak in your food and drink. I do it on those times when necessary.

I wouldn’t pay $35 for a movie ticket for a more intimate setting. Even if by some drug/drunk induced reason that I would pay that much (and, btw, I do not partake in either) I’d expect live pre-show and post-show entertainment, a seven course gourmet meal, full body massage and theater seating in a select-comfort soft leather couch. :D

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Uptown Theatre on Mar 31, 2008 at 5:51 pm

If they do DLP the Uptown, they’d better go with something a little ahead of the game. Supposedly Muvico was to install Sony 4K systems in their venues, but nothing has happened that I’m aware of, yet. They don’t even advertise that they have DP movies when they have them.

If and when AMC does a DP install here, they’ll have opportunity to tout this venue as DC’s premier state-of-the-art motion picture venue. I wouldn’t mind frequenting this place again for DP movies rather than either the smallish AMC Georgetown or Regal Gallery DP auditoriums, if its done well. When they premiered “The Guardian” here a year or so ago, they supposedly temp installed some kind of DP system.

Judging by the looks of the “Speed Racer” trailer, that would be an excellent candidate for a large screen DP presentation. The exaggerated color schemes brings back the memory of how when color tv was new in the 70s.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Regal to possibly end newspaper listings on Mar 17, 2008 at 8:31 am

If they follow through with that, I can see half of the Movie Directory shrinking in the Washington Post. As naive as this may sound, I thought newspapers put movie showtimes as a public service. Also, the directories do not correctly advertise sound format and/or presentation format. For example, if a film is showing in a venues only THX cert venue, they don’t say “Movie Title in THX.” Some places do advertise digital projection but then again, they get lazy and just say “digital.” The average moviegoer doesn’t know if its digital sound or digital picture. Back in the day they had 70mm releases, there was a special icon to denote that and Spectral Dolby prints of films. They need to go back to doing that. It educates the consumer and for sound/picture enthusiasts, makes it easier to find the right venue to see their movie of choice.

One beef I have with them is that they don’t even advertise what movies they have on their own marquee. They stopped even that. You have to go INSIDE to look at the showtimes or call a number.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Warner Theatre on Mar 6, 2008 at 10:05 pm

Yesterday, I stopped by this theater on my way north to PA. They had a Star Trek movie retrospective and showed the first Star Trek movie, which I haven’t seen theatrically in 17 years or so. The print they showed was awful. As with my very first theatrical experience viewing TMP, the movie started then stopped and appeared as if the print was forcibly moved because of something gone awry. I could hear attempts at trying to restart the film. There was no music overture as it was either skipped or missing from the print. The color faded to pink and there were many, many scratches, spotting and shifting throughout the movie, with additional new, but unwanted sound effects such as a prolonged boom during parts of the movie. The auditorium, itself, has surround speakers but either they weren’t turned on, or the movie print was so bad that they couldn’t be played. I could discern some stereo separation on screen so my best guess is that it wasn’t mono.

In spite of the aforementioned, it was nostalgic to see the veteran crew of the Enterprise in their first motion picture adventure AND I discovered one or two NEW snippets from scenes that I have never seen before. I’m going to have to view the film on DVD and on VHS to confirm this though.

The auditorium, itself, is decently sized and one can see where the split down the middle halved what was once a grand theater. There are some architectural details to your right that do date the theater but gives it character. The simple wall ornaments gave me the first impression that I was in Legoland.

The lobby is quite clean with movie posters evenly spread throughout the area. The box office and refreshment stand are combined. As you walk down a few steps, you’ll see the entrance to the right half theater. To its right, is the entrance to the balcony auditorium and to the far left is the left half auditorium. In between the entrances to the main floor theaters is an open space for arcade games and the restrooms. Across from the arcade/restroom area is the manager’s office and an inside entryway to the Carvel ice cream parlor.

Being that it was late and I was probably the only patron in the whole complex, I didn’t venture into the other two auditoriums to see what they were like. I surmise that the left auditorium is close to the same size as the one I was in. I’m curious as to what the balcony theater is like based on prior posts, its probably not much to write about. As far as any ‘ghosts’ or any apparition or strange moments, there were none unless they were fooling around with the soundtrack. I did get this sense to leave early but it had more to do with the fact I was alone in an unfamiliar area but when I did leave the place close to midnight, the streets seemed deserted and void of loiterers and riff raff.

It would be nice if the website indicated proper theater parking. I was about to park on the street but saw that the parking meters are in effect until 11pm and did not have change to feed the meter. There is a hotel lot, which I parked at but didn’t realize they had a towing warning for unauthorized vehicles.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Cinema Treasures reaches 20,000 theaters! on Mar 3, 2008 at 12:05 pm

Congratulations! I’m looking forward to pictures being added to theaters, maybe video?

As far as the posts on daily news, perhaps the news isn’t as pertinent to some members as it may be to others. If I read a post about a theater in Boise, Idaho, I’m probably not going to be moved to say anything as opposed to it being in my home state closer to me.

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Lowest rated Oscar telecast on Feb 29, 2008 at 1:36 pm

The reporting pretty much says it all. The movies weren’t as great or memorable as in years past. As far as the host, I’m not much of a Jon Stewart fan even though many Gen X, Y and Z-ers seem to get their news from his daily show. I, for one, do not. I don’t think he’s that funny, witty or in the same league as in prior years' hosts such as Billy Crystal or the late Johnny Carson. And to think, I wasted three hours watching that show where one could have gotten a colonoscopy, read War and Peace, finished my will, changed the oil and filters in my cars and had a nice seven-course meal… :)

JodarMovieFan
JodarMovieFan commented about Looking back at "The Day After" on Feb 26, 2008 at 1:41 pm

I remember the hoopla surrounding this film for tv and that there was only one commercial shown during its airing. In school, our English teacher suggested us to view the program (unless one’s religous conviction prevented one from viewing it) and then write about it afterwards, so it was required viewing. Being that it was so long ago, I think the only moving moment for me was at the very end when Jason Robards' character weeps. It was kind of a Job (from the Bible) like moment given that like the Biblical character, he lost everything; possessions, family and friends.

The T2 depiction of a nuclear blast is a powerful one. I remember seeing it in both 70mm and in the one place (in the DC Metro area) that had the then new Cinema Digital Sound format (UA Bethesda, now Regal). I can still visualize the scene up to Sarah Conner’s burning, crisping flesh from the flashpoint to when she wakes up from the dream. Back then, the threat was the Soviet Union, today its virtually anybody given the post 9-11 proliferation of terrorists and suitcase-type enclosures that could deliver THE bomb.