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Moriarty Interviews Joel Silver About SPEED RACER! Plus A Scoop On Who’s Directing SGT. ROCK!

Uhhhhh, Guy Ritchie??? by poeticwarriorII	May 12th, 2008 06:07:56 AM
Is this the right guy for Sgt. Rock?
Hey Silver by Sebilrazen	May 12th, 2008 06:08:06 AM
I have some ideas for turning Ultraman into an overpriced franchise, you know where to find me.
Speed Racer: really about cultural neostructural theory / precap by Paulseta	May 12th, 2008 06:11:17 AM
"Sexual identity is fundamentally used in the service of sexism," says Marx; however, according to Buxton, it is not so much sexual identity that is fundamentally used in the service of sexism, but rather the meaninglessness, and subsequent dialectic, of sexual identity. Lyotard uses the term 'Sontagist camp' to denote the role of the poet as participant. It could be said that Marx uses the term 'dialectic precapitalist theory' to denote a mythopoetical totality. In a sense, Bataille suggests the use of cultural neostructural theory to challenge hierarchy. Foucault's critique of semiotic theory states that reality comes from communication. The main theme of Speed Racer is the defining characteristic, and subsequent absurdity, of dialectic narrativity. The example of subcapitalist narrative depicted in Speed Racer is also evident in Melrose Place. However, the subject is contextualised into a cultural neostructural theory that includes sexuality as a paradox. But if semiotic theory holds, we have to choose between dialectic precapitalist theory and cultural neostructural theory. "Society is unattainable," says Sartre. Bataille uses the term 'semiotic theory' to denote the difference between society and sexual identity. It could be said that Derrida promotes the use of dialectic precapitalist theory to deconstruct society. "Class is a legal fiction," says Baudrillard; however, according to Humphrey, it is not so much class that is a legal fiction, but rather the economy, and some would say the rubicon, of class. Thus, many discourses concerning semiotic theory may be found. In Speed Racer, the Watchowski brothers affirm cultural neostructural theory; in Melrose Place, though, Spelling analyses textual theory. Lyotard uses the term 'dialectic precapitalist theory' to denote not narrative, but postnarrative. The characteristic theme of Pickett's analysis of cultural neostructural theory is the role of the artist as participant. The main theme of Bailey's essay on semiotic theory is a cultural reality. Dialectic precapitalist theory implies that narrativity is used to reinforce the status quo. In a sense, the subject is interpolated into a Lacanist obscurity that includes consciousness as a whole. In the works of the Watchowski brothers, a predominant concept is the distinction between opening and closing. Debord promotes the use of cultural neostructural theory to challenge capitalism. Therefore, Sontag uses the term 'semiotic theory' to denote the role of the writer as poet. The characteristic theme of the works of the brothers is not, in fact, deappropriation, but predeappropriation. If one examines dialectic precapitalist theory, one is faced with a choice: either reject semiotic theory or conclude that the law is intrinsically used in the service of outdated, sexist perceptions of culture. Thus, Marx promotes the use of capitalist neocapitalist theory to attack capitalism. Sartre uses the term 'cultural neostructural theory' to denote the difference between sexual identity and language. Several situationisms concerning the collapse of conceptual society may be found. But de Selby holds that we have to choose between dialectic precapitalist theory and substructural discourse. If cultural neostructural theory holds, the works of Pynchon are empowering. "Class is meaningless," says Foucault; however, according to Werther , it is not so much class that is meaningless, but rather the fatal flaw, and eventually the failure, of class. The subject is contextualised into a semiotic theory that includes art as a paradox. Dialectic precapitalist theory implies that the significance of the reader is significant form. Alternatively, one could argue that Speed Racer is simply a giant piece of crap.
Who is Sgt. Rock? by DerLanghaarige	May 12th, 2008 06:17:29 AM
Help a clueless German. Is this some kind like GI Joe?
Damn You Michael Bay by MCMLXXVI	May 12th, 2008 06:19:14 AM
Damn You Michael Bay
ALTERED CARBON by sagebirt	May 12th, 2008 06:27:55 AM
Whats happening with that film? Silver bought the rights years ago of this geat book, anyone know?
Intern? by RenoNevada2000	May 12th, 2008 06:47:21 AM
You're not going all Bill Clinton on us, are you? ;)
This movie will never get a fair shake, Mori, sorry by YackBacker	May 12th, 2008 06:56:06 AM
Because it's a kids movie, for one, which means it is subject to geek ridicule already. And second, people sometimes need a whipping boy and this movie fits that mold perfectly. I havent seen the movie, I considered it briefly for all of ten seconds over the weekend, but I just don't care enouth about this particular movie to spend time and money watching it. If the reviews were all raves, maybe I'd go. But the vast dislike of the film tells me that those who adore it are either batshit crazy or spiritually enlightened beyond words... either way, that's work I don't have time to put into a viewing experience. And Mori, you know this business, SPEED RACER was kind of doomed from the start. The Wachowskis went so far in their own direction that they ended up alienating the audience. On a personal level, that just annoys this shit out of me. So, in closing, let this fish flop. I'll catch it on cable one day.
SPEED RACER #1 at the BO by Mace Tofu	May 12th, 2008 06:57:54 AM
in Korea. Who would of thunk it? I do like what they did with the movie Joel.
Wachowski Hatred by kgerm	May 12th, 2008 07:01:54 AM
They make The Matrix and you all praise them as Gods. They finish the series by giving you what you wanted -- two films of insanely epic proportions that are dense with information and emotion...and you shit on them for being too deep or "pretentious." They make Speed Racer and then you hate them for not being deep enough. Make up your minds.
um..ahh...like...y'know...errr by lex romero	May 12th, 2008 07:02:53 AM
Seriously you too hardly got any words in between all the umming and arring, it sounded like you were two schoolkids on a first date too nervous to talk to each other.
I was with Silver till Guy Ritchie by NomoredirtyjokespleaseweareYanks	May 12th, 2008 07:04:02 AM
This man pips Richard Kelly by one film before a flop of such gargantuan proportions stopped them dead.
Danny Boyle >>>>>>>Guy Ritchie by NomoredirtyjokespleaseweareYanks	May 12th, 2008 07:05:27 AM
at least Boyles failures are interesting.
Er,no... by chuffsterUK	May 12th, 2008 07:06:36 AM
.....it's NOT a cartoon-it's a film BASED on a cartoon. If they wanted it to look so much like a cartoon,they should have made one. You don't go to see a movie based on a book and expect to see to hours of printed word on the screen!
Silver is a great producer.... by travis-dane	May 12th, 2008 07:15:37 AM
DAMN!The man produced some of the best action movies ever made!
Only Matthew Fox got the characters... by m_prevette	May 12th, 2008 07:18:21 AM
He GOT Racer X and nailed the voice, his performance is the standout in the overstuffed movie. I was waiting for someone else to do at least one breathless rush of dialogue delivery, but no one else really "got" it. I'm 46, I watched Speed each day after school,I salute what everyone tried to do here, but the movie was too long, the plot too confusing, and it was never really funny. Somehow in the last 30 minutes it all DID come together into great moviemaking, but that was at the end of a long, uneven ride.
This movie was dull! by FILMFUNK	May 12th, 2008 07:19:41 AM
and when it wasn't waffling on about fixed races and the usual exposition heavy Wakowski Bullshit it was chucking a mental with such a CG overload it seemed intent on making the audience vomit their e-numbers in the aisles. I'm fucking sick of Greenscreen FX overloaded movies! The only OK things in this were the chimp and Susan Sandon, and when it finally ended.
DerLanghaarige... by poeticwarriorII	May 12th, 2008 07:22:30 AM
Sgt. Rock is a comic book character set during WWII. He was produced by DC comics so if you're interested you could probably go on their site and find something. It's actually a pretty damn good comic.
Too bad this thing went down for the count. by rbatty024	May 12th, 2008 07:29:45 AM
Well, I guess it's not too bad. It did get awful reviews after all. I was going to see it despite the reviews but eventually they got to me and I decided to go see Standard Operating Procedure instead. Maybe on DVD Speed Racer.
I Love the Coda by Aquatarkusman	May 12th, 2008 07:33:56 AM
In the words of Dionne Warwick, Elton John, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder, "That's what shills are for!"
"At what point did the Wachowskis know their career was finished by fiester	May 12th, 2008 07:35:53 AM
"Oh, I'd say about 9:30 last night."
MCMLXXVI... by BiggusDickus	May 12th, 2008 07:38:52 AM
Don't you think it's getting a little tired now, fella? Have you not got anything else to contribute? Come on, I'll make it easy for you. "Speed Racer is shit!" There. Your turn...
Even Harry has bailed on Speed Racer: by fiester	May 12th, 2008 07:38:54 AM
Notice his Speed Racer GIF vanished about the same time the weekend box office results started making the rounds. Coincidence?
Instead of Speed Racer...Wacky Races! by BiggusDickus	May 12th, 2008 07:41:08 AM
Now that would've worked!
Guy Richie: by fiester	May 12th, 2008 07:45:38 AM
I would not trust anyone who thought it was a good idea to marry Madonna with anything. Their sense of judgment is obviously fatally flawed.
Wacky Races by Mace Tofu	May 12th, 2008 07:48:35 AM
I'd go see it lol.
Cause those are the logical toys they’ve never really done for S by stvnhthr	May 12th, 2008 07:49:48 AM
"the Mach 5 had a trunk that opens that you could put Spritle and Chim Chim in...Cause those are the logical toys they’ve never really done for SPEED RACER fans before. " Sorry but that was done a decade ago at the Resaurus toy company and that is still the best Mach 5 toy ever produced.
I Totally Loved It & IMAX Is Def. the Way To Go by LaserPants	May 12th, 2008 07:56:03 AM
Its a shame that this didn't become a blockbuster, but its doing okay. I'm sure it will turn a decent profit eventually with overseas and dvd and the like. Like I said, I totally loved it, but thats because I love the show, and really LOVED it as a kid. I think if ur not all that into the concept, it won't fly. This is a cult movie all the way; a cult movie on a blockbuster budget. I really wish everyone would stop hating and give it a chance, but, oh well. When the blu-ray comes out and everybody's watching at home and orgasming about how amazing it looks, and regretting that you skipped IMAX, remember that ur chance is NOW! Go see it. If you love insane psychedelic pop art and over-the-top lunatic action, see it. SEE IT!
I Have The New 1:24 Scale Hot Wheels MACH 5 by LaserPants	May 12th, 2008 07:58:51 AM
The real nice $25 one? All die cast and pro and collectory. Its a beauty.
On the Cartoon Network This Weekend by Aquatarkusman	May 12th, 2008 08:00:47 AM
About 199,000 commercials for Speed Racer toys. Like kids are going to know who the fuck this is (it hasn't been on in national syndication for years, as far as I can tell) apart from the movie, which they apparently aren't seeing.
Speed Racer - Future classic by dastickboy	May 12th, 2008 08:01:57 AM
Saw it Friday night, with just myself and girlfriend, plus some other couple in the entire cinema. (although that was down to the cinema screwing up their listing). So it was difficult to gauge what the larger audience would think of this film, but I for one loved it. It's clearly a devisive film, moreso having seen it. Having not seen the original show I can easily relate to the "live-action anime" nature of the film, but also the Wachowskis have built on this and it's much more a film of multiple layers. I think this is where a lot of people will be turned off, as that first layer is all blazing colour and hyper-kinetic action, and at times it can be dizzying. But the plot with Royalton, which in turn establishes the Pops/Rex story definitely puts some meat on the bones, and continues to add weight to Speed's actions and to a larger degree the message of family that's continually referred to (but not pounded into) the entire story. It really is a shame that this film won't be seen by all as there are some unbelievable shots throughout the film that do confirm this film as a work of art. I defy anyone to watch the final sequence of Speed racing down the final straight, (Giacchino's music built to a climax) as the lights blaze onto Speed's crash helmet in close-up and say that it's not future piece of pop iconography.
I have to wait 'till June 6th for IMAX by Mace Tofu	May 12th, 2008 08:02:34 AM
but plan to catch it tonight at a regular theater.
This movie blew my fucking mind by Iamagoodguy	May 12th, 2008 08:02:41 AM
And people who have not seen it, don't to the reviews. Go see it and make up your own mind.
Speed Racer = awesome movie that stodgy critics don't get by Rindain	May 12th, 2008 08:04:11 AM
Judging by the reactions of my 4:20 pm Saturday audience (a mix of all ages), this movie could have great word of mouth. The critics just don't seem capable of accepting the cartoon/anime aesthetic. Too bad for them.
doomed since first trailer by darth rod	May 12th, 2008 08:05:44 AM
Push it all you want, this movie is polarizing, after the first trailer that was it, you either liked the over the top look or you hated it. The mayority plain hated the fake hyper stylized look, and thats all there is to this movie, lots of style zero substance. The problem is that if is it suposed to be a family movie, why the punishing length? where are the jokes for adults? where are the characters to care abaout? Next time if the producers are invoking pixar as a template, pay atention it ain't the visuals that sells tickets, it's a good story and solid characters, things that are sorely missing with this one.
In time people will come to enjoy Speed Racer for its aesthetics by Shub-Wankalot	May 12th, 2008 08:13:00 AM
Critics panned the Eastwood spaghetti westerns back in its day, but now make a complete reversal in their view. Time will forgive Speed Racer
To put it simply, this film is by Paulseta	May 12th, 2008 08:14:31 AM
nearly as bad as being strapped down and being force-fed neon glowing liquid gopher shit again and again... and when you pass out a giant monkey kicks you in the balls until you wake up screaming, and then more shit is sprayed into your mouth, but this time from an incontinent skunk. Shortly after that, two massive airhorns are constantly and repeated blasted into your ears while a donkey with AIDS spits in your face, multiple spotlights and focused at you blinking on and off, while rancid onions are peeled under you eyes and then shoved up your nose. At the same time, Stephen Hawking reads Harry Potter in backwards order while you are sodomized by a retarded elephant that keeps drooling on the back of your head. Then repeated for 2 hours and 20 minutes.
It was pretty damn cool. by AgentArchangel	May 12th, 2008 08:23:15 AM
The Wachowskis had the guts to make a living, breathing comic book/cartoon, and they had the guts to go all out with the visuals. It's crazy, it's hyper kinetic and super colorized, and you get to see cars do things they were not meant to do on God's green earth. Plus in IMAX, the film's just amazing. Still, liking this film is dependent on a person's inner child, so if that inner child is gone then save your money and go see something else. If you're open to a fun popcorn movie, then by all means this is the film for you.
A question for Joel by Luscious.868	May 12th, 2008 08:26:16 AM
Joel, with the cinematic abortions that were the Matrix sequels and now speed racer, how many more box office disasters will the brothers be allowed to perpetrate upon you before you stop allowing them to make films?
Harry and Mori are clearly on the take. They rarely ever contin by Luscious.868	May 12th, 2008 08:30:03 AM
They are clearly being paid to try and get people to see this turdfest or they wouldn't continue to promote it after it's opening weekend. Do not waste your money on this film.
Wow that was interesting by godzillasushi	May 12th, 2008 08:37:28 AM
You know, I completely agree. If you reviewed the reviews for the movie you would find a lot of people are probably out of touch. It's like, until younger people become more prominent in that way, these movies will always be cast aside. CGI seems to be a negative for those older writers, no matter the context. I think when people complain about the movie they stifle the creativity we all want. Those are probably the same people that hate remakes, etc. But they are facilitating that by trashing anything that's different. We don't get many movies that take chances throughout the year. This is rare.
I'm going to disagree with those who say this is generational. by rbatty024	May 12th, 2008 08:41:23 AM
I haven't seen Speed Racer so I can't speak to the quality of the film. However, I can note that similar films that make use of CGI and green screen did well with these old stodgy critics. Sin City, Sky Captain, and 300 (even though I personally hated it) all received favorable reviews. I think critics are more open than you think. It's not the technique they're attacking, it's how it was implemented. I actually like what I've seen of Speed Racer, but the reviews have given me pause.
Wacky Races... by TroutMaskReplicant	May 12th, 2008 08:42:23 AM
I'd love to make a live action Wacky Races film and actually make it good. The Wacky race film has yet to have it's finest hour I think. Like sure there's the Cannonball Run films and Those Magnificent Men In Their Flying Machines, but there could be so much more!
A question for Luscious.868 by BartholomewNeff	May 12th, 2008 08:44:49 AM
So we all have to like what you do or we're on the take? I was never a fan of the show and only knew the theme song and not much else before going to see this. I loved it. It's sweet. It's genuine. It's trippy. I had a blast. Several of my friends and I saw it over the weekend, none of them knew what to expect and they all loved it. I've never seen anything like it. Not everyone has your tast Luscious and I think Moriarty explained exactly why he liked it. I'm wondering if you've even seen it or perhaps you are one of those countless people that rag something without ever even seeing it. If you don't like it, fine. Others do. Joel Silver attepted to make a family film here and he's done it. It's not for everyone, it's totally different than anything we've seen before and if you don't like it don't watch it. But I have a feeling you've already done that anyway.
So was Joel repped in the movie by the Royal motors guy? by joeelliott	May 12th, 2008 08:47:23 AM
Because all the back stabbing and underhanded business practices they expose in the movie goes on every hour on the hour in Hollywood.
RE: rbatty024 by godzillasushi	May 12th, 2008 08:47:57 AM
It's a good point you make. But in the same way, those three movies you listed seem to be pretty different from Speed Racer. Hard to lump them all together. They are attacking how it's implemented. Definitely. But at least it's something different. And they don't seem to be giving very good reasons for not liking it. To say it's candy-colored-this, or cotton-candy-that doesn't do anyone any favors. They give reasons, but not very good ones IMO. Still, you bring up a great point about other GS movies. Much more adult skewing movies, but GS nonetheless.
Box Office numbers don't mean anything... by The Curious Dr Humpp	May 12th, 2008 08:52:20 AM
... until you realize what they represent: audience interest in a particular film. So in Speed Racer's case: nobody seemed to care. Not even during opening weekend. Which is kind of odd for such a heftily marketed film. Then again, my guess is Warners pretty much expected this kind of turnout for Speed Racer, as this film tracked extremely poorly these past weeks. The receipts are likely to fall 50 to 60% next weekend, after which the film will disappear into oblivion. Which, in my honest opinion, is exactly where it belongs. There are probably some countries in Asia where it'll do reasonably well, but Speed Racer being succesful in Europe would be like American Football or baseball becoming popular over here. It's just not gonna happen. So there. Think what you will about the B.O. numbers, they're just saying what most people are thinking: this film just isn't worth your time and money. It won't become a cult classic. It won't be 'rediscovered' and appreciated in the future. It'll die a silent death and that'll be the end of it. Sorry.
Nah, Its Already This Generations TRON by LaserPants	May 12th, 2008 09:06:10 AM
I think SPEED RACER already has cult status. Its not going to last in the mainstream (cept amongst kids, especially when its on dvd), but as cult pop-art explosion, it will live on. Sort of like TRON. That 'bombed' too. Now its a beloved cult classic.
yeah, but... by Shoegeezer	May 12th, 2008 09:08:45 AM
...Tron was a good movie, a family movie not something aimed squarely at kids and obese adults.
The New Tron or this weeks by Samuel Fulmer	May 12th, 2008 09:11:06 AM
Superman Returns. Most people think it's gabage, but it's supporters claim it will be seen as a classic years later, but then years later most people still think it's awful.
I hope this doesn't stop the Wachowskis by Samuel Fulmer	May 12th, 2008 09:12:49 AM
from making a Laugh-O-Lympics movie. Scooby Doobies all the way!
Keep talking dipshits, I'm going twice by g-ride9000	May 12th, 2008 09:14:25 AM
I like this movie, even the crony parts. Why, because I'm a corny little kid inside. Are you? It's also because I love my family and think about the times my dad supported me even though I was an insubordinate teen. So who cares if it bombs. They'll make a martial arts film, Ironman IV will upset most of you due to it's similarity to the first, and people will still pan this crazy, sweet, wild film.
Superman is no speed racer by g-ride9000	May 12th, 2008 09:18:15 AM
All the complaints about Superman were based on the fact that it disregarded the source and it was visually unoriginal and flat. Speed racer is being shunned for being way to close to the original material (stilted dialog, anime look) and being way to original.
Totally Agree, G-Ride9000 by LaserPants	May 12th, 2008 09:23:20 AM
I totally agree and I can totally relate to being that corny little kid on the inside. And I'm going to see it at IMAX again before it disappears. Shoegeezer, I'm not a kid, and not an obese adult. I'm in my 30s, have a job and house and a girlfriend and totally completely and utterly loved this movie. Seems to me that opinion is pretty much a 50/50 split. Either you love it or hate it.
If it's a kids movie, why is it 2 hour 15 minutes? by robogeek.com	May 12th, 2008 09:33:07 AM
Unfortunately, the movie's about half an hour too long for a family film, which really hurts it. (This alone may have cut its earning potential in half.) Plus, to work as a family film you have to connect with moms, and the marketing almost went out of its way to alienate moms with its (perceived) freakiness and male-centricity... oh, and then it's released on Mother's Day weekend? Wow. I can't help but wonder if anyone running this (sinking) ship is a parent (particularly a mom), but then again we are talking about the studio whose production chief has been accused of fostering institutionalized sexism (I refer you to Robinov's infamous alleged statement that Warners will no longer make movies with female leads). But I digress...
Speed Racer > Superman Returns by LaserPants	May 12th, 2008 09:33:51 AM
Especially if you love the characters. SPEED RACER is pretty much a dead-on translation of the show in terms of the characters, tone, and generalized insanity. I mean, yeah, the races and cars reflect a retro-modeled superfuture version of same, but one that seemed right in step with the show. It immediately captured and held my inner 5 year old in rapture for its entirety. Superman Returns, on the other hand, seemed more about Singer's raging gay-emo-martyr complex. The Supes of SR wasn't Supes, he was some whiny, wanky, too skinny Waif of Steel, or Metrosexual of Steel. AND a stalker AND a dead beat dad to boot! Superman's not about angst, he's about optimism and universal justice from a thankfully friendly space-man-god. Superman Returns was, from a fan of the character's standpoint, a disaster. In contrast, as a life long fan of the show and character, Speed Racer hit all my buttons perfectly.
RE: Shoegeezer by godzillasushi	May 12th, 2008 09:34:54 AM
What a dumb thing to say. Really. Why you would come to that conclusion, then grace us all with your thoughts is beyond me. I know the internet is this anonymous place where anyone can lay ignorant comments out but give me a break. Does the movie bother you enough to insult anyone who saw it? Geeze...I get sick of that crap man.
TroutMaskReplicant... by BiggusDickus	May 12th, 2008 09:38:38 AM
Absolutely. And if a live-action Wacky Races film is too mainstream for the sniffy, oh-so-intellectual pseuds out there, I for one would take a Bailey's Comet's movie. We could even have Christina Ricci in hotpants. Again.
So Joel by Series7	May 12th, 2008 09:40:20 AM
How many marketing people are going to lose their jobs because of this flopping? Seriously, that was my question after leaving the film. Don't get me wrong I really liked the film and think its a much bigger achievement in film then Iron Man (come on, who didn't leave Iron Man thinking, Jesus Christ 3-Spidermans/X-Men's 2-FF, a Daredevil and Ghost Rider later and they finally get it spot on). I felt that way because this movie is was going to get its money from 12-18 year old kids, and grow men who still enjoy kids movies. The problem is that anyone over 14 thinks that this movie is too childish for them, and kids under 14 can't convice their parents to drive them to it. Though really this movie should be aimed at everyone. Its better then Alvin and the Chipmunks, Transformers and Horton Hears a Who combined. But the marketing sucked, and it really was no ones fault. I think they did the best job they could. The only problem was they didn't get John Goodman out their. I never saw his ass on any of the couches last week. And he's gotta be in every late night host top ten favorite guest (he was on Conan's first show?), he loves to host SNL (SHIA????). He is one of America's most likable actors, and yet, I bet for the most part no one knew he was in the film. No one gives a shit yet about Emile, and Ricci isn't that big a draw either. I guess the big man, who man Flinstons (a very VERY similar movie) a success over 10 years ago, couldn't strike gold twice.
Tron is probably worse than Speed Racer... by TroutMaskReplicant	May 12th, 2008 09:44:21 AM
No sane person could say that the visuals in Tron aren't great and memorable, but the story telling was half assed. The first half hour of the movie is about boring corporate espionage! It's a shame that Tron could only be a cult movie and no more. Actually I think one of the special effects guys for Tron is having a lecture near me. I should go see it.
E.T.'s running time is 120 minutes by DerLanghaarige	May 12th, 2008 09:51:14 AM
Same with The Incredibles and who could forget the almost epic runtime of the Harry Potter movies? So if you are attacking Speed Racer for being "too long for a kids movie", you better look for another target. :)
hahahaha boring corprete espionage by g-ride9000	May 12th, 2008 09:54:23 AM
so you don't like mamet either!
In time people will enjoy Speed Racer 4 its aesthetics by quantize	May 12th, 2008 09:54:46 AM
Oh yeh? like what? Like Moulin Rouge, which was similarly hyper real gaudy design and hackneyed melodrama? I dont think so....nooooooooo
BTW Mori: by DerLanghaarige	May 12th, 2008 09:55:59 AM
Almost every movie inspires passions this strongly. Just take your average Adam Sandler-comedy and see how the opinions go from "The funniest movie of the year" to "I didn't even smiled for one second". I know what you mean, but basically every movie is loved and hated that much, only that most of these movies aren't designed to be the potential Summerblockbuster of the year.
Paulseta, you are batshit by g-ride9000	May 12th, 2008 09:56:08 AM
crazy, and learn to use the < P > function just take out the spaces
Guy Ritchie? URRRRRRRRRGH. by Steve Rogers	May 12th, 2008 09:56:31 AM
His movies are shit on toast.
I expected to HATE it. by Kid Idioteque	May 12th, 2008 09:58:13 AM
And I fucking loved it. I kind of hate myself for enjoying it so much. On paper, everyone involved with it would make for a film experience from hell, at least for me. But I seriously had a great time. Fuck the critics. This film has heart and thrills to spare. This was so much more fun than that derivative, over-hyped current blockbuster, also known as Iron Man. GO SEE IT. I wish I could see it in Imax.
Silver should get Bale as "Rock" or STALLONE by ABking	May 12th, 2008 10:00:34 AM
I mean, if Silver wanted to solve the problem of SGT.ROCK the movie getting flack for an all American character like Rock being hated on by foreign audience, he would have waited for Arnie to come back and use the old idea of Sgt.Rock being half American half German. But Arnie is governor and Silver wants to rush SGT.ROCK...given that...Christian "T4" Bale would do a great job. I'd say Stallone too but Silver would do better to ask Sly to direct SGT.ROCK and make it a bad ass war film in the vien of the last RAMBO film...ah well, I at least have the Rambo trilogy and Predator!
ABKING by chuffsterUK	May 12th, 2008 10:11:29 AM
RAMBO trilogy? I thought you were a fan-for one,there are four films featuring Rambo,two,if it was still a trilogy,surely it would be the First Blood trilogy?
It's a great movie by Kraken	May 12th, 2008 10:12:43 AM
But even I was REALLY skeptical going in. But the movie was a thrill ride. It really upsets me that people aren't even giving this one a shot. It's the kind of movie you really have to see in the theater to get the full experience.
Apologizing for Speed Racer I see by jimmy_009	May 12th, 2008 10:32:58 AM
Sorry, but this was a giant dud from the get go. The only people that would want to sit through that eye rape are those that have already had their brain rotted by Japanese mind rot already. No thanks, give me Iron Man anyday.
Guy Ritchie is a horrible fucking choice... by Sledge Hammer	May 12th, 2008 10:41:40 AM
...for Sgt Rock. And have you seen his last couple of films? Talk about flash in the pan. The man is on a bigger downward spiral than Michael Jackson. I think being married to (pri)Madonna has sucked any creativity right out of the man, and probably much of his will to live as well. And anyway, the last thing an icon like Sgt Rock needs is an "oh-so-hip" directorial approach. Maybe he'll surprise me, but honestly, I dread this choice. As for who should play Rock, I'd say Kiefer Sutherland. He's the right age, he's got the right kind of gravelly voice, and we know he can convince as a stoic, never-say-die 'man of action'. He'd be my choice anyway.
Kraken by Series7	May 12th, 2008 10:43:35 AM
Yeah totally agree about, its a theater experience. People are like, well I'll wait for DVD. Seriously? Unless you got a sweet Blu-Ray set up this movie will be lacking on the small screen (just like Sunshine). But I mean these are the same people that will be first in line for the upcoming Sandler movie. Nothing agahinst Sandler movies, but they play the same at home/on my Zune/or at the theater. Speed won't.
Saw it... Enjoyed it. by Rando Calrisian	May 12th, 2008 10:49:07 AM
So far the Summer is 2 for 2. I wasn't even a big SR fan, but went for the experience. This is the kind of movie that needs to be seen in a theater. It's fun, loud cinematic candy. What's not to like? After the movie, kids were running up and down the theater halls making vroom-vroom sounds, crashing into eachother and giggling the whole time. Seems some people can't just let go and be entertained. If you went into this film expecting great cinema, or high art - you kind of missed the point. This is bold, flashy and kind of reminded me of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory in parts (Gene Wilder version, thank you). A good, strong, family film, that will be enjoyed by little boys for many years to come.
Rando... by Aquatarkusman	May 12th, 2008 10:55:07 AM
"After the movie, kids were running up and down the theater halls making vroom-vroom sounds, crashing into eachother and giggling the whole time." Either that was the worst endorsement of all time, or a brilliant passive-aggressive/sarcastic insult.
The length of the movie is a problem by Series7	May 12th, 2008 10:59:54 AM
Because unlike E.T. and Harry Pots, the trailers make it come off as a zany WAKA WAKA Pokemon cartoon and parents aren't going to want to sit through 2 hours of that. They are saving their kids to the movie time for next week with Narnia, which plays out like a movie Adults could enjoy. This movie comes off looking like Torqued which scares older people away. I mean think of any one you know over 20, yeah they can be down for 300 or Iron Man, but neo-color looking happy fun time? Thats the main problem with the film, its immpossible to market. Its just one of those, you gotta see it. Just like trying to get your friends to see U23D, none of them wanted to pay $11 to see a U2 concert in a movie theater, but had they gone they would've realized how cool it was. They should have sold Speed Racer more toward adults. Adults would have seen it and realized that they could bring their kids.
I'm just saying the kids got the "point" by Rando Calrisian	May 12th, 2008 11:02:38 AM
Aparently, Aquatarkusman, you don't remember having fun watching cartoons as a kid. Or acting out, and expressing that fun you just had experiencing something you'd never seen before. The kids in the theater ate this movie up. They were cheering at the end, and continued laughing and cheering outside of the theater. When was the last time you ran around pretending to be a race car... too long, aparently.
Toys 'R' Us, huh? by MorbidObesity	May 12th, 2008 11:03:42 AM
I'm going into a Big Lots next month, and the entire place will just be SPEED RACER.
DerLanghaarige by darth rod	May 12th, 2008 11:04:55 AM
E.T. was successful in 1982 but flash forward 20 years and the rerelease bombed at the box office. tastes change through time. The Incredibles was aimed to all targets of the family, Speed Racer is just aimed at male children and fans of the series, neglecting as it has been said: the mothers, sisters, teens, fathers. Harry Potter has a huge installed fan base, that guarantees it success.
Guy by CuervoJones	May 12th, 2008 11:06:33 AM
I don´t like MTV directors or Tarantino wannabes like him.
I'm over 20, and I enjoyed the flick by toadkillerdog	May 12th, 2008 11:08:52 AM
Marketing be damned. If I want to see a movie - regardless of the marketing or reviews, i will do so. If a movie is good, it will find an audience - sooner or later. Perhaps that audience will be the DVD market and not at the theater.
ET rerelease bombing by Samuel Fulmer	May 12th, 2008 11:08:57 AM
Would probably have to do with the fact that it doesn't have the same following as something like Star Wars, but I also think the hardcore film fans weren't happy when they found out about the Walkie/Talkies and C.G.I. ET that wasn't needed.
Go Speed Racer! by greenstyle92	May 12th, 2008 11:12:31 AM
Go Speed Racer! Go Speed Racer GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Thanks mori. I KNEW I wasn't crazy for liking this movie! Although Yackbacker brings up another possibility! Maybe I AM spiritually enlightened! Yay!
The hate makes me want to see it more by Harry Weinstein	May 12th, 2008 11:12:48 AM
Buying two tickets for this in IMAX while I still can, one for me and one for whoever I can actually convince to go see this beautiful catastrophe. The seven minutes that turned up online sold me on the film - and the largely condescending tone adopted by the people who hate the film sealed the deal. It's clearly the most batshit insane slice of utter madness to come from a major studio since FREDDY GOT FINGERED - and like FGF, a lot of the hate is apparently coming from folks who either didn't see it or didn't understand it, or both. Look at those numbers - clearly, not many people actually DID see it. The overly literal-minded needn't bother (and were clearly not invited to this party in the first place).
I enjoyed it too by MattmanReturns	May 12th, 2008 11:16:43 AM
Speed Racer was very entertaining, and that's all I expected of it. It also had some hilarious stuff in it, like the ninja fight.
Cuervo Jones by DerLanghaarige	May 12th, 2008 11:22:03 AM
I wouldn't call Ritchie a Tarantino wannabe. He isn't constantly ripping off/stealing scenes from movies, that are now known as "Grindhouse" movies and even has his own, pretty unique visual style. (Yes, I know, quick cuts and stuff like that isn't really unique, but he has his own way to use them.) And while I definitely won't defend everything he made (Snatch was okay, but just Lock Stock V2.0 and I avoided Swept Away till today), calling him a Tarantino wannabe, just because he made mostly movies about gangsters, is bullshit.
Please give it a Chance by bravojo	May 12th, 2008 11:27:10 AM
I saw this yesterday with my 6 year old son. We were already big fans owning all the toys and entire series so he knew all about it. This movie is so worth your money. Having seen Iron man last week and Speed Racer this week, there was actually more substance to Speed Racer. The visuals should not be the only reason you don't go see this. there is a really good story and great acting happeing inside those crazy visuals! Matthew Fox looks like he stepped out of the cartoon as Racer X. He nailed that performance the way Christopher Reeve nailed Superman! When people say this movie has a lot of heart, you can't understand that until you see the family dinamic of the film. In this sinacle world, where family doesn't hold the place it once did, this movie dares to offer a little glimps of the togetherness and perseverance a family can achieve. If you look up to your dad or bibg brother or wish you could this movie will put a tiny lump in your throat.
The good news for those who liked this flick: by fiester	May 12th, 2008 11:33:28 AM
Is you'll be able to see it again for $1.00 next week at the cheap theater on a double bill with Drillbit Taylor.
MattmanReturns - TV characters that should be killed by toadkillerdog	May 12th, 2008 11:47:23 AM
I just chuckled through the whole thing, and Chim Chim cracked me the hell up. Sprittle was anoying, but he was annoying in the cartoon as well. There are many TV/movie characters that should be killed before they are ever allowed to cause any more trouble. When I was a child, my top three where: Sprittle Giligan Dr. Smith.
Speed Racer and the Walmart deal... by DarkCouncilus	May 12th, 2008 11:52:48 AM
Shit, It's SAD to see all those aisles and counters full of unsold SR crap at Walmart: cups, candy, toys, clothes, etc.... bet it was the idea of a Inner-children Speed Racer Yaysayer to greenlight that deal. The Speed Racer movie, a "pop masterpiece with a hint of nostalgia" (aka shameless denial) that bombed as a business in every conceivable way.
Going wednesday.... by Quake II	May 12th, 2008 11:54:24 AM
I've been on call all weekend so no movies but this wednesday I am taking my 6 year old...I will solve the mystery of Speed Racer in 3 days (the mystery is "Does it suck or rock?")
Speed Racer = an awful movie that people denied by DarkCouncilus	May 12th, 2008 12:09:06 PM
Expect a desperate for money special edition DVD in two months.
I'm starting to think there are TWO Speed Racer movies by greenstyle92	May 12th, 2008 12:14:20 PM
out there. Obviously I, Moriarty, Harry, and several other talkbackers saw the GOOD one. The one with cool action and great characters. But there must be the OTHER Speed Racer movie out there that Capone and 65% of the Rotten Tomatoes critics and several talk backers saw and MOST talk backers who haven't seen talk about that was really sucky and weak or something. That's the only way to explain it, because I have no idea how people can hate this movie!
The only problem with it Speed Racer is it's too long by ck37	May 12th, 2008 12:32:26 PM
I thought the movie was amazing to watch visually. The story was great but just went on and on. If they cut about a half hour off the film kids and parents would even love it more. Look any parent knows kids won't sit there in theater seats for two hours without being bored or anxious. The producers should know this. It will probably fair better on DVD, but it is a shame it's getting crucified in the reviews. It is a good movie.
It was a very good movie. by Toonol	May 12th, 2008 12:32:44 PM
And the Tron comparisons are totally correct. Tron bombed at the box office, but is iconic. In ten years, everybody will own Speed Racer on Blu-Ray.
Speed Racer killed Iron Man for me by Hikaru Ichijo	May 12th, 2008 12:41:37 PM
Iron Man looks cool, but doesn't need my help, so I took mom to Speed Racer. I figure as a kid I made her sit through hours and hours of it anyhow, so what's two more? We both really enjoyed it. Super hero flicks, on the other hand, are getting really old. Every new superhero flick comes out to the highest praise and gradually becomes annoying, thus necessitating the next one, and they're all pretty much the same. I like Samuel L. too, but that move makes me think the flick is actually NOT getting things the way they should. I want a proper superhero flick like we've never been offered, and I think Speed Racer is the closest thing yet. People that haven't seen Speed Racer, but are already drawing comparisons to Iron Man are actually hurting their film, since there CAN'T be any comparison. It should be taken on it's own merit, and if you haven't seen it, I promise you have no idea what you're talking about. I'm headed to an IMAX screen before it's too late, while Iron Man is sounding more and more like something that I'll learn to take for granted on a 72" flat screen.
AICN is shameless. by leobloom	May 12th, 2008 12:59:45 PM
Just what we need ANOTHER glowing review of Speed Racer.
But it took balls for Mori to admit he'd never gotten hired by leobloom	May 12th, 2008 01:01:30 PM
for any of those projects. Come to think of it, how many projects has Mori been hired for?
If we needed any further proof that this site is industry-fuelle by leobloom	May 12th, 2008 01:03:17 PM
Silver quoting "choc. covered pussy juice." Game, set, match. This site has lost what little credibility it had left.
Thanks Joel et al. by vaterite	May 12th, 2008 01:06:20 PM
Watching speed racer made me incredibly happy. That's all that needs to be said. I am sorry for you if you can't enjoy it.
Wachowskis killed Speed Racer for good. by DarkCouncilus	May 12th, 2008 01:18:44 PM
End of the road apologists, no matter how much you want to flip this movie flop (claiming it's instant cult classic, a pop iconography, masterpiece with a hint of nostalgia or whatever) you can't force people (specially through this website) into suddenly liking it. Tell how good this bomb is to those involved (that are not the Wachowski Bros.) that are more likely to have their careers and jobs run over by it's failure.
Haunted Tank? by diverdan	May 12th, 2008 01:26:52 PM
If Sgt Rock does get made it'd be nice to see the Haunted Tank and its crew in it even if it is just a drive through.
How many apologists does it take for SR to be a success? by DarkCouncilus	May 12th, 2008 01:36:31 PM
None, that shipped has sailed.
Good point Darkcouncils by ganymede3010	May 12th, 2008 01:38:42 PM
I can't believe that AICN is pushing this movie. Despite that, the numbers still sucked.
Here's the thing I've noticed Darkcouncils by greenstyle92	May 12th, 2008 01:52:43 PM
First off, I think all the fans of the movie admit that that ship has sailed. We are dealing with it fine. What I've noticed is the Bashers just love to shove the RT score and box office in our face, then get flummoxed when the vocal 1/3 minority say "fuck that, it was still great." and all continue to high-five each other and celebrate the movie and Moriarty posts interviews and such. It's YOU guys who won't let it go, just keep saying "It sucks! It sucks! Why won't you guys give it up, it sucks!" It's a little bit like the end of Grinch who stole Christmas, that way. You know, you're sure you've broken the film, but the whos down in whosville just keep celebrating it anyway. Though I'm sure "Your heart growing 3 sizes" won't happen, though we kinda hope it will. Instead, you keep trying to find ways to still convince us that it sucked. Face it dude. You lost. We won. The movie is awesome. deal with it.
UnknownUser by Series7	May 12th, 2008 01:54:05 PM
Whatever Polaski got an Oscar. And his thing is more well known the the Tranny thing. Even though I guess the girl is "over it", he never got in trouble for what he did.
I grew up with the Speed Racer cartoon by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 02:03:03 PM
and I loved the movie. Big, colorful, noisy, batshit crazy, and stupid in many many good ways. It was great escapism like I haven't seen in a long time.
WB - "Unfortunately it didn't perform to our expectations" by DarkCouncilus	May 12th, 2008 02:09:16 PM
How is that damage control? Dude should learn from the AICN's inner-children cult on how to properly turn a phrase, "This year's TRON!" now that is denial level that I'm talking about.
speed racer not the equal of tron by bacci40	May 12th, 2008 02:12:44 PM
why did tron become a cult classic? because as pc's became widespread,and video game consules showed up in peoples homes, everyone finally understood the lingo of the film...it surpassed the geek culture that originally fell over itself for the flick...speed racer aint the same...its a kids film that kids dont get...2 hr plus movies dont become cult classics..there wont be word of mouth, because tracking numbers say there wont...i hope that bitch silver loses his job over this...fuck him....this movie was a mess, and not one of you can make me change my opinion...and i was one of the kids that used to run home after school to make sure i didnt miss an epi...oh, and let me add this...it is well apparent that the wachowskis never watched speed as kids...they probably didnt first see it until their 20s...there is no sense of nostalgia anywhere in the movie..and thats another reason it blows...so fuck off generation x and y, you have made the world of entertainment a shit place to be in
Greenstyle by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 02:14:28 PM
Well said. I do think some extreme haters in these posts actually like the properties they bash, but have more fun (but lose out on other things) being negative. It's like kids (and some adults) who like a girl, and tease and annoy her instead of being nice and having a shot at something meaningful. Like the dudes who just write "the new Batman will suck!" over and over. Just douche bags looking for attention, and the negative kind is the only kind they can get.
UnknownUser by Series7	May 12th, 2008 02:15:34 PM
Yeah i know. Viva la France. Just saying. Most celeberties do fucked up shit. I mean look at Bert.
Bacci by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 02:23:22 PM
Is anybody actually trying to change YOUR mind? I don't think anyone really cares (not an insult to you, but why would people who don't know you try to convince you personally to like a movie?). People have their opinion just like you. Really, you are correct about Tron - but don't let yourself get angry because lots of people like this movie. I would not dare to tell somebody who dislikes it how much they are wrong. I grew up with the cartoon, and really enjoyed the movie. It was a really stupid, loud, distracting film. Just the escapism I personally was hoping for (and believe me, I worried about it sucking). I'm not really sure what other direction would have been the proper way to go with this. It worked for me, for what it was.
UnknownUser, there's one big thing your... by poeticwarriorII	May 12th, 2008 02:27:47 PM
missing out on here. Short Round had far more personality and acting ability compared to TheQueef. His character was also not some contrived forced smarmy bastard son popping up out of nowhere. We all saw how that turned out for supes.
Unknown by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 02:28:25 PM
I was watching this weekend a bit too, and you really put your finger on it. But the actual vibe of Temple of Doom was so different than the others. I hope the new one captures more of the feel of the original, and the third one. Oh, and Short Round was just comic relief. Shia, from what I understand, is the inheritor of the franchise. The flavor of the month should not inherite here any more than a temporary flavor at Baskin Robbins should inherit the store.
Um this um, I mean, you know, ummm by Underoos Hero	May 12th, 2008 02:29:27 PM
Like this interview, umm kinda, you know, made my head hurt, and umm it was kinda like umm, well, I really had to stop reading it after the umm second question because umm. FOR GOD'S SAKE DID YOU REALLY HAVE TO TRANSLATE THE INTERVIEW VERBATIM?!!!!!!! FUCKS SAKE MAN!!!!!!!!
As for Speed Racer, I do have a couple negatives by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 02:32:32 PM
one - all this fear of dying in the film, but all cars seem to be equipped with some magical ball of bubbles that safely protects you from the horrible crash n' burns. What the fuck?? The cartoon was darker because when people crashed they fucking died (and often deserved it). This would be like having no redshirts die in the Star Trek remake. two - they could easily have dropped about 20 minutes off of this without causing any harm to the film (but then, I say that bout a lot of movies).
Saw it. by Laserhead	May 12th, 2008 02:32:40 PM
Wooden acting, ridiculously flat characterization, a dull, dull story, and most importantly, the action was not well done-- it just looked like a giant videogame, no sense of danger or threat or even consequence to any of it. If your inner child is moved by this, then I feel pity for your inner child, because your inner child is a retarded monkey who is pleased by the mere presence of bright colors and loud noises.
OK...uh, a third gripe about Speed by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 02:39:36 PM
In the cartoon, you had this race team called The Car Acrobatic Team. In the film, every fucking car was an acrobat. Shit, suddenly all cars have the jumping powers and all that. And suddenly, Pops Racer didn't invent all the cool gadgets on the Mach 5? Then what the fuck is he there for? Ok, maybe I have 4 or 5 gripes...but I still enjoyed it...
dear joel and freak bro: thanks for the crappy movies by Meatbiscuit	May 12th, 2008 02:54:40 PM
jerkoffs
I do BELIEVE there is a GREAT FUTURE in the LIVING CARTOON. by JDanielP	May 12th, 2008 03:08:24 PM
Yeah, I "was" going to take the wife and kid on this family outing, with "SPEED RACER" being kid friendly...and the visual style being especially interesting (to me). But between the majority of the reviews and my wife being resistant, having little interest (in it) herself, I gave my young son the choice between "SPEED RACER" and the local fast-food Playland. (Guess which one he chose.) And it's funny...because I've been unusually resistant to the negative reviews. Maybe it's because I'm a believer in this technology...while I also figure my young son will enjoy it. --In my mind's eye, I've long been miles ahead of this blending and morphing of both (digital) film and computer animation. I even see a day when live action will be morphed/altered into artistic style (unique styles at that) and perhaps even imitating the work of famous artists, living or dead. But based on how this movie hasn't opened well, it may only reinforce the belief that live action and computer generated imagery (CGI) should remain as separated as possible. (Movies like "TRANSFORMERS" and "IRON MAN" do a great job of bridging the gap with practical effects...though, to be fair, "SPEED RACER" looks to be something else entirely, like a living cartoon.) I can't help but wonder if computer technology will bring us closer to a more life-like cartoon before Hollywood finds true success in such blending of the real and the unreal, as "SPEED RACER" obviously tries to do. Anyway, I want to give special thanks to those whom shared their more positive experiences with "SPEED RACER", despite the negative press. I'm very tempted to take the wife and son on a surprise outing next weekend. From what I understand, if my wife can get even a little amusement out of "B.C." (which I passed over), she could most certainly make it through the "SPEED RACER" whirlwind for a couple of hours. (heh,heh) I'm not tellin' 'em! I'm just takin' 'em! (hahahahahaha)
I don't hear anyone who hated the movie claim to be a fan of the by wash	May 12th, 2008 03:16:23 PM
Which makes me that what Moriarty and others saying is right - that it really is only for fans of the show and kids, for better or for worse. I plan on checking this out on Imax this week, with expectaitions firmly in check.
*of the show by wash	May 12th, 2008 03:16:42 PM

Popeye by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 03:18:29 PM
was the only other "cartoon" movie that made a cartoon into live action this well. Lots of people hated that one too...but I think Popeye still holds up as good escapism, and Speed will too.
Just Curious Mori by oogabooga	May 12th, 2008 03:20:43 PM
If you had posted a review last week saying you thought it was a piece of shit would you still have gotten to interview Joel Silver??
You need to love history to crack a whip? by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 03:25:29 PM
To run around cracking a whip and punching out bad guys, you need to love history and education? I've seen people take a few classes in community college, then some more easy classes in another college, and BAM you have a B.A. and are suddenly a "scientist". You aren't running from spear toting natives, you aren't saving the lost Ark. You are on your knees in the desert cleaning a rock with a toothbrush. Mutt just needs the whip and a few tips he learns from Old Fuck Indy, and he's in business. That is how it will pan out in the movie after this one. Maybe they will have Mutt in college, taking easy anthro classes, while the rest of the students who are going into a profession that will earn them real money get jealous because they actually have hard classes.
Sgt. Rock will fail and here's why by ArcadianDS	May 12th, 2008 03:35:47 PM
It will be in Iraq during the Kuwait Liberation War. The character of Sgt. Rock will be a weasly 'i dont like my country much, but its my duty and it beats painting houses' kind of guy. The 'bad guy' will be a Republican Senator from Tennessee (or they'll just refer to him as Senator and not even pin a state to him) who shows up near the end to reveal that the whole war was just an effort to get re-elected, and then Sgt. Rock punches his face. Also, it will suck because some schlub will spend 30% of the movie doing his best Rob Schneider impression.
There is more than enough plastic and metal from SR paraphernali by DarkCouncilus	May 12th, 2008 04:02:27 PM
To make a very neat metal case for the Speed Racer DVD special edition, which most likely will be out in 2 months or less.
SR - Domestic $18,561,337, Foreign: $12,600,000 by DarkCouncilus	May 12th, 2008 04:13:30 PM
This bomb left charred chunks of "pop masterpiece with hints of nostalgia" all over the place. SAD.
Oogabooga... by TheRealMoriarty	May 12th, 2008 04:34:35 PM
... I interviewed him before I posted a review, but it's not about "would I have been allowed?" I turn down interviews all the time for films I don't believe in. I made the choice to go to Long Beach because I had seen the movie and wanted to offer it further support. I'm offered far more things to do than time will allow, so I'm the one doing the picking and choosing.
Unknown User... by TheRealMoriarty	May 12th, 2008 04:37:17 PM
... thanks for playing, but you're a big fat liar! No set visit! No ILM trip! And if you think an interview that I had to drive two hours on the 405 to do is a "special treat," you are a goddamn moron. That Film Threat hit piece did exactly NOTHING to us because it was a personally motivated piece of printed spite. I hear the author of the piece has a lovely career now in the cocksucking-for-money business, since he's definitely not doing any work online anymore. So, to quote Speed Racer, "Keep that weak shit off my track."
"Keep that weak shit off my track" by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 04:54:06 PM
I don't remember that from the movie, but shit, it's a great line!
I know "made me feel like a kid again" by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 04:58:17 PM
has been overused for years, but this is the first movie that did that to me since, I dunno when. For the first 15 minutes I was an 8 year-old again. The rest of the movie tugged at both my child and grown up geek sides. I don't know why it didn't do better, but being over two hours has hurt a lot of movies. This really needed to be a 90 minute movie. Teenagers and Mexican families with kids don't want to sit in a theater for over two hours (and I don't want to sit there with them), and this is the main movie-going/paying crowd in Los Angeles.
Yeesh, Those Numbers Are Not Good by LaserPants	May 12th, 2008 05:17:06 PM
Wow. I really loved the movie, really wish it would catch on, but it doesn't look good. Oh well, I'm definately going to see it on IMAX one more time before it disappears. Man, I really wish this would go over big, but it just didn't. Its just too weird, experimental, extreme, super happy / naive, and obscure for mainstream audiences.
THANK YOU, Moriarty by antonphd	May 12th, 2008 05:26:51 PM
Speed Racer was just plain unlucky to open the week after Iron Man, which nobody saw coming. This film is one of the great ones and should be seen on the big screen. Speed Racer is Tron for this generation of kids and adults who still have the heart of a kid. And, I might add, artists who can appreciate the brilliant brave work done in this film. Some art just isn't going to be popular with the general audience. This will be a cult favorite when the kids who are crazy for it right now grow up.
Sgt. Rock will fail and here's why by hank henshaw	May 12th, 2008 05:31:40 PM
It shares the same initials as Speed Racer and Superman Returns. "SR", I see a pattern there.
"Apologists" by Harry Weinstein	May 12th, 2008 05:43:32 PM
I apologize for not a goddamn thing. That's just a word people who don't like something use to denigrate people who did. (Or in my case, suspect they might enjoy, as I haven't even had the chance to catch this film yet.) It's usually used against those who like something unpopular. You know, because the crowd is always right and shit. Mob mentality FTW. I apologize only for not having the technology to reach through my LCD and bitch-slap people who call people with different opinions than their own "apologists". And for that, I am TRULY sorry.
I love it when black boxes try to preach integrity. by leobloom	May 12th, 2008 05:46:59 PM
What a bunch of hypocritical bullshit.
Brunomac...Great tag line for Speed Racer.... by Quake II	May 12th, 2008 05:53:57 PM
"Teenagers and Mexican families agree, Speed Racer is too long"
First Question Joel by Orionsangels	May 12th, 2008 05:57:57 PM
So the movie flopped. What's your next project?
Moriarty, a "journalist"? by La Frog	May 12th, 2008 06:03:58 PM
I see you Mister Moriarty reacts quite violently to the talkbackers who question your integrity, and of course in very vulgar term (it seems to become the norm among you people). What i don't understand is how you even dare to do so. After all, aren't you a screenwriter yourself, doing at the same time interviews with a big producer? where do you draw the line between being a sell-out and keeping your integrity as a writer and a journalist? There is a time where you must choose your side I think. Those sweet lenghty questions where you praise the movie to mister silver don't seem like "chocolate coated pussy juice to me" (congrats to mister Knowles for this new vulgarity, real class here) but read like a valet kissing his master's behind. Forgive me, but that is pathetic, no matter if you love the movie or not.
Quake II - ditto on Brunomac's on SR audience by DarkCouncilus	May 12th, 2008 06:06:42 PM
I HATE a late night movie were there are big families with children (It doesn't matter if they are Mexican or not, they always manage to be annoying) and/or teenagers (there is always a loud asshole with ADD among their groups). I'm a weekdays movie goer, If I like the movie I watch it again on the weekend with friends, but always trying to have a peaceful viewing first.
blatant subversive subtext by theresaRussell	May 12th, 2008 06:16:39 PM
Ok I really liked speed racer. But whats surprising is that I respect it. We all know that V was basically a wachowski film. They pulled the strings without being responsible for the grunt work so I count it. So they've made four films that are doing their damndest to introduce some really counter-cultural ideas to a mainstream public. Bound-SameSex love, Matrix-the world is a construct of your own psyche,V-terrorism is just a matter of what side of the fence your standing on,Speed Racer-Corporations are evil and destroy everything pure in art and humanity. The great thing about Speed Racer is that its for three year olds. The wachowskis have decided to introduce their candy coated pessimism in early gestation. I realize they barely scratch the surface of the topics they are approaching but the important thing is the sort of viral marketing of enlightenment they are attempting. Ok the matrix sequels suck, so yeah it is important to make a watchable film, I also fucking hate bound. But I dont think this is unwatchable. A little too long but still got a good pace and GREAT actors something you cant say about the matrix or bound. The message is a small portion of the equation but speed racer delivers its entertainment in its simplicity of story and the absolutely staggering visuals. Even while giving the film a decided pan the new york times admits the film broken into projections in a gallery would make a very satifying afternoon.
Speed crashes by The Killer Goat	May 12th, 2008 06:16:48 PM
Brunomac, regarding the "safety foam bubbles", I only recall seeing those used in the 'Formula Racing' tracks in the cities. I don't think those were required for the more dangerous and hazardous Crucible race (desert, mountains, etc). There were plenty of crashes where you didn't see anyone make it out alive and there was no safety-foam (damn that sounds contraceptic) to save them. Obviously they skipped past those scenes fast. So there were crashes aplenty. But no fatalaties reported for that (illegal) race. However you may recall the crash in the middle race where Speed was 'locked' by that other racer, they flipped and both cars were totalled. Speed made it out safely, the other driver did not. Which was part of the negative buzz and media circus that Royalton had 'promised' would happen.
Pops' inventions (Spoiler???) by The Killer Goat	May 12th, 2008 06:20:32 PM
Aside from designing and building all his own cars, Pops also built that 'convergenator' (more sex talk) to power the Mach 6. Unique, and apparently more powerful than the Royalton designs.
Wow. Speed Racer is this year's Superman Returns... by ckane123	May 12th, 2008 06:21:49 PM
That's the last flick that drew such opposite and INCREDIBLY emotional reax. Calm down folks. Some people loved it, some people hated it. Where did this movie fail? It failed to get enough people interested in it. Is that a marketing failure? A result of bad buzz? Or both? No idea, but I think it may be a little bit of both. Anyway, I spent $20 on the giant Mach 5 toy, which would never have been possible for me to do had this flick not been made. So it's got that going for it.
Contraceptic by The Killer Goat	May 12th, 2008 06:22:52 PM
As in, to prevent sewage. Or, to make up a lame excuse for a typo. Where's my Damn No-Prize???
Speed Racer is like the Popeye movie? by ckane123	May 12th, 2008 06:24:42 PM
WOW. That actually makes me more interested in seeing it. Seriously. Popeye is underrated.
Great tagline for Iron Man by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 06:25:09 PM
image featuring Iron Man swooping in and knocking the Mach 5 off the loop de loop, and saying in electonic loudspeaker voice "keep that weak shit off my track"
I kid the Mexican families...I kid, I kid... by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 06:25:55 PM

Darkcouncil by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 06:29:06 PM
Nothing like a matinee showing on a weekday. Sometimes you almost have the theater to yourself (if it's a week or two after it comes out). Otherwise I like to be with a group of friends at night so we can be the noisy assholes.
LaFrog... by TheRealMoriarty	May 12th, 2008 06:31:33 PM
... easy to say from your position of anonymity. Who am I trying to fool? I was quite direct about my vague ties to Silver professionally at the start of the piece, so my conscience is clean. If it bothers you, though, you see my name on the byline... feel free to skip it.
Killer Goat by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 06:33:13 PM
Yeah, I did assume there were some deaths (or at least good maimings and brain trauma) in that later race. I know that one major bad guy racer survived via parachute (???). They wanted to have lots of crashes throughout without it being a total bloodbath, so I can get behind the "safe" precautions in the city races.
What happens next (predictions) by ckane123	May 12th, 2008 06:40:03 PM
- We will get no Wonder Woman film produced by Joel Silver, due to the budget spent on SR - We MAY get a (medium-budget) Sgt. Rock - if G.I.Joe makes mucho bank. - Some marketing people will hit the streets - Emile Hirsh just fired his agency; he may never get a lead role in a big-budget film again - People will complain that Moriarty and Harry in the pocket of the studios (I won't) - Iron Man will hit 275 mill - I will buy lots of Speed Racer toys for my sons on clearance - Speed's box office will drop 70% next weekend - Extra prints are being run right now for Kung Fu Panda, to fill the screens that Speed will vacate very soon - The Wachowskis will stick with producers - Finally, know-it-all internet message board posters (like me) will make predictions. Try it! It's fun!
why can't Moriarty by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 06:43:45 PM
be a fan as well as a journalist? This is fandom, not Iraq war coverage.
conscience? by La Frog	May 12th, 2008 06:48:53 PM
it is fine Mister Moriarty, after all it is only movies. But it seems to me very normal for readers to question the credibility of journalists who have ties (even "vague" ones) with the industry they are supposed to write about. Saying those ties are real doesn't change anything I believe, but if that cleans your conscience, that's great. Don't take it bad though. There is no shame in being a valet. If done properly, it can be a very elegant occupation.
The Killer Goat by Zybon	May 12th, 2008 06:50:32 PM
It was a "Bernoulli Convergenator," meaning it wasn't built by pops, he just had it on hand. A product from one of the companies that went under due to the fixed races.
Ckane by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 06:53:31 PM
Ha ha, yer cracking me up. HBO was showing a lot of Popeye last month. I think it's pretty timeless. I remember seeing it in the theaters on my firt real date with my first girlfriend (by that I mean first chick I banged). And I...wait a second, I was a teenager in 1980...God I'm old....
Anyway by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 06:55:15 PM
I do think there will be a pretty timeless thing to Speed Racer in years to come. Too bad it's box office fuck-up will haunt it. But Popeye tanked too. Could Mother's Day have anything to do with it? Mom's don't want to see Speed Racer, they want to see Made to Order.
UnknownUser... by TheRealMoriarty	May 12th, 2008 07:03:27 PM
... I disagree. Going to a set isn't some fabulous experience that makes us all so giddy and girly that we'll automatically just LOVE anything that we see. Maybe that would be your reaction, but to me, a set is a workplace. Period. A chance to look at how a particular crew or cast works together. Some of the most fun sets result in unwatchable films, and sets that are tense and miserable sometimes result in classics. The film is the film. The set is the set. None of this is like winning a prize in a game show. I've been doing this for 12 years. I have a body of work both critical and about the process itself. That's why I don't have any problem doing both, and the longer I do it, the less I see any connection between reviewing and covering the process. If someone else can't do both, that's their faulty wiring, and not my problem. And no, I don't mean the "average citizen" sucks cock. I mean Ron Wells, author of that hitpiece, is a syphillic cocksucker. That's what I mean.
Popeye underperformed, twas not a 'bomb' by ckane123	May 12th, 2008 07:13:23 PM
Cost 20+ million, made almost $50 mil in the US alone ($6.3 mill opening weekend). It had horrible reviews and was expected to do better but it did not bomb. If Speed made over a third of its budget back in its opening weekend, like, say $55 mill, it would probably hit $170 domestic. It did not, so your looking at maybe $50 -60 mill total - the same amount Popeye made, unadjusted for inflation, 28 years ago. THAT is a bomb. And I love that a Speed Racer message thread is referencing Robert Altman's Popeye.
Still haven't seen enough evidence to disprove that story by harper54	May 12th, 2008 07:15:26 PM
http://www.kaichang.net/2005/0 5/meet_the_author.html ...their silence on this matter is just to incriminating.
Popeye was perhaps the best comic/strip adaptation by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 07:21:38 PM
The place they filmed it (Malta) that town they built (which is not a Popeye theme attraction I would love to visit). And the characters of Popeye, Olive, and Poopdeck Pappy (Haul ass!) so perfectly realized by the actors. I guess Speed Racer didn't really brilliantly realize the characters other than Speed, but they were pretty good adaptations of the one-note personas they were originally. Pops was strong, blustering, and somewhat threatening, Trixie was hot and loyal (rare trait in a chick nowadays) Speed a bit brooding and angry and into nothing but racing. I didn't really get Sparky...suddenly he seemed older and greasier than the original. But who cares! It was all about the visuals and thunderous sounds of those races!
Uh, I meant I would love by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 07:22:58 PM
to visit that Popeye town. I hope it's around when I decide to travel the world some day. Ah...some day.
I dig what Moriarty sez about set visits by Brunomac	May 12th, 2008 07:32:17 PM
My dad worked for Paramount and Fox studios while I was growing up, and from infancy to mid-20's I was on a lot of working sets. Dallas, Star Trek movies, Eddie Murphy movies, etc. As exciting as it was, and as impressive to my girlfriends who got VIP badges it was, these were serious places where they were getting serious work done...work that had to get done that very day. The lower level set-workers, such as painters and carpenters and such, yucked it up in the back sometimes, but they were no party for the directors and actors. They might spend a few minutes joking with visitors and answering questions (my dad is Scottish, and one of my best memories is being on set as they filmed the sick bay scene with the bald chick in the first Star Trek movie, and later watching James Doohan practice his Scotty accent on my dad), but they didn't have a lot of time to sit around gabbing and impressing geeks. Maybe they would a bit for press folks, but Mori is right - these aren't party places.
Harper54... by TheRealMoriarty	May 12th, 2008 07:37:10 PM
... their silence is just silence. That's all. That crazy woman's claims were dismissed when she failed to provide ONE SINGLE PIECE of evidence in court, and when she skipped her own court dates. Here's a simple one... let's see that ad the Wachowskis allegedly placed. That would be step one. It's amazing what gullible people will swallow whole as long as it's printed on the internet. That woman is a fraud. Period.
Cult classic like Plan 9 from Outer Space by leobloom	May 12th, 2008 07:46:41 PM
Whoopdeefuckingdoo
cult classic by theresaRussell	May 12th, 2008 07:58:26 PM
not like plan 9. As mori said like tron.
Speed Racer is worth seeing folks. by AllPowerfulWizardOfOz	May 12th, 2008 08:08:05 PM
I was on the hate train prior to and I won't even deny that. I blasted this movie left and right because I thought it would be shit with wheels. I was wrong, very very wrong. Now I did smoke a spliff before going so that did have an influence but really the movie is quite amazing. It's a visual artistic masterpiece and one of those films that you will truly regret not seeing on the big screen down the road. Go see it and ignore the negative reviews.
deliciouscowbell by AllPowerfulWizardOfOz	May 12th, 2008 08:13:13 PM
I feel the same way. Totally sucks because it means it won't be in the theater for much longer. I am going again before the end of the week and may go twice actually just to get my fix of it on the big screen. I am trying to get word of mouth around to as many friends as possible to go see it.
I still don't know. by harper54	May 12th, 2008 08:23:35 PM
If you look it up, there's a lot of folks who think otherwise and in the off chance that it were true, I could see a global media conglomerate suppressing a story and/or buying the woman out. And by the way, I most assuredly do not believe everything I read on the interwebs... http://tinyurl.com/5doz4g
Harper54... by TheRealMoriarty	May 12th, 2008 08:49:44 PM
... so a lot of people still think a lot of things that are total bullshit. The burden of proof is on her. She's the one making the accusations. The only "evidence" that exists are things she said. Other than that, not ONE SINGLE BIT of corroboration has come to light. Like I said... where's this ad the Wachowskis placed? How about some verification of that first piece of evidence that supposedly ties this all together? It's a lie. She's a liar. She had no proof and she had to skip out on her court date, and the case was dismissed. That's the truth, and just because some gullible saps didn't get the memo, it doesn't make her story true.
Speed racer was a fucking blast by greentealite	May 12th, 2008 09:08:17 PM
I just got home from this movie. It was ten times better than iron man. Apologists talking about 'need an inner child' shit, yeah, maybe. But you know what you can also have? A FUCKING IMAGINATION! AND A FUCKING HEART! This movie packs in so much of both, I loved it. Going to see it one or two more times before it goes out of theatres.
also by greentealite	May 12th, 2008 09:10:46 PM
I fucking HATE anime but this movie was fucking BETTER than anime. Because it had SUBSTANCE. SUBSTANCE. Something anime COMPLETELY LACKS.
Mori, Ron Wells has Herpes, not syphilis by Mace Tofu	May 12th, 2008 09:11:36 PM
Don't want you spreading any misinformation about him.
The amount of apologists for this terrible film by Interficium	May 12th, 2008 09:12:46 PM
For this movie is getting to the level of "Transformers" from last summer. The only difference is that Speed Racer is twice as bad as Transformers, something previously thought to be impossible.
This is awesome movie and you shouldn't be threatened by it by Proman1984	May 12th, 2008 09:30:55 PM
It rocks!
If I gotta get high to appreciate a movie, that's not a good sig by leobloom	May 12th, 2008 09:32:18 PM
I mean, getting high made me enjoy Vertigo. Another thing about the "Speed is art" argument: just because it's bright colors/LSD/acid/drug imagery doesn't automatically make it art. It has to have some emotional resonance with the audience, which this movie apparently didn't have for most viewers.
Holy Christ! by supersize	May 12th, 2008 10:02:38 PM
There's a lot of asshole's in here
Any examples Mori? by Lyghthouse	May 12th, 2008 10:09:12 PM
Of films that were fun to visit but ended up being terrible movies? If you don't want to name name's thats fine. I find it totally believable though. I have a theory that many of the worst movies were a lot of fun to make. It's why you see so many great actors in terrible films(besides money).
I've read almost all these Speed Racer talkbacks.. by Quake II	May 12th, 2008 10:13:27 PM
and the one thing I've noticed is that 98% of you that say Speed Racer is shit haven't actually SEEN IT. You're basing a movie review on OTHER CRITICS and commercials. I also notice that 75% of the people on here that actually SAW Speed Racer either like it or love it. Call me crazy but I tend to believe the people who saw the film over those who didn't (or won't). I'm going this week for sure. These talkbacks have made me more curious than ever.
Good, Quake, it's guaranteed to sell at least 1 ticket this wknd by leobloom	May 12th, 2008 10:18:53 PM

Oh yeah....and Popeye by Quake II	May 12th, 2008 10:19:41 PM
was an awesome movie. A cartoon fully realized and turned into a live action film. Shelley Duvall as Olive Oyl (yes, that's how you spell it) was a fucking genius casting move!
Racer X Flips His Car Over a Bad Guy's Car by Slugworth	May 12th, 2008 10:32:23 PM
And punches the dude in the face. Fucking cool.
You're Cute, Brane by TheRealMoriarty	May 12th, 2008 10:38:23 PM
I like how you start by trying to claim I'm homophobic, then finish by accusing me of liking a movie because of tranny sex. Classssssssssy.
QuakeII by TheRealMoriarty	May 12th, 2008 10:42:39 PM
Don't bring up the fact that most of the venomous remarks here are from people who haven't seen the film. That ruins their momentum. One of my best friends... the godfather of my son... my executive producer on my feature this summer... went with me to the IMAX screening last week, and he didn't care for the film much at all. "Didn't get it," he said. And that's fine. At least he saw it and gave it a chance. But it cracks me up how someone can try to connect the idea that a mediocre box-office weekend means "everyone has decided this film is terrible." It means everyone has decided not to see the film. Those who have seem to be enjoying themselves, for the most part. I can totally understand not liking something you've seen, but I'll never understand this sort of black-hearted venom for a film you haven't.
And Moriority.... by Quake II	May 12th, 2008 11:01:09 PM
Obviously very few people DID see Speed Racer this weekend as it had shockingly poor box office. But I could care less. I'm taking my son wednesday and if it's fun, I may go again before it leaves the big screen. And I am excited about Indy, Hellboy II and The Dark Knight as well. I tend to actually watch films before I shit all over them. But I'm not your typical talkbacker (I moved out of my parents house at 17 (20 years ago) and never went back).
And Moriarity.... by Quake II	May 12th, 2008 11:01:25 PM
Obviously very few people DID see Speed Racer this weekend as it had shockingly poor box office. But I could care less. I'm taking my son wednesday and if it's fun, I may go again before it leaves the big screen. And I am excited about Indy, Hellboy II and The Dark Knight as well. I tend to actually watch films before I shit all over them. But I'm not your typical talkbacker (I moved out of my parents house at 17 (20 years ago) and never went back).
I tried to correct the name spelling before it posted by Quake II	May 12th, 2008 11:02:18 PM
and got a double post. Ooops.
QuakeII... by TheRealMoriarty	May 12th, 2008 11:14:16 PM
... you should be excited about HELLBOY 2. Not that I've seen it, mind you. But if I had... I'd tell you to be very, very excited because it rocks incredibly hard. But that's if I'd seen it. Which I'm sure I haven't.
JUST SEE THE FUCKING MOVIE. by polyh3dron	May 12th, 2008 11:18:37 PM
It ranks up there with some of my greatest cinematic experiences in my LIFE seeing this movie at the Grauman's Chinese.. It really blew me the fuck away... I never saw much Speed Racer as a kid, maybe 2 or 3 episodes tops, so I was never a Speed Racer fan but this movie made me one. I have never experienced such a sensory overload from a movie.
Also, Giacchino's score deserves a fucking Oscar. by polyh3dron	May 12th, 2008 11:19:58 PM
Yes I said it.
This will be such a cult classic in the future by polyh3dron	May 12th, 2008 11:21:13 PM
and Blu-ray sales of this movie are going to go through the roof.
Oh, I Get It! by TheRealMoriarty	May 12th, 2008 11:28:44 PM
"Apologists" is the way some of you douchebags say "fans." If you like something, you are a "fan" of it. Not an "apologist." Now that I understand that, it makes so much more sense.
Box office reminds me (slightly) of Grind House by Lyghthouse	May 12th, 2008 11:28:59 PM
Lots of people loved it, including myself, but I think WB bet a little too much on this movies appeal. Its a 100+ million dollar movie based on a 40 year old cartoon my own parents used to watch as a kid. If they could have scaled back the budget to under 100 mil and released it in December instead of summer, I think it could have performed better. The movie may be fantastic, but I can entirely see why it failed at the B.O.
I'm taking my 3 year old nephew thursday. by greenstyle92	May 12th, 2008 11:45:13 PM
My sister (his mother) and I have been pimping my Nephew on Speed Racer for the past month. And it was her suggestion! I brought over my DVD of the first season and he loves, she's been buying him speed Racer clothes and a couple of the smaller cars, I've been showing him the trailers for the movie, and he's going nuts! He's got the 3 year old movie equivalent of Speed Racer blue balls and he'll never forgive me if I don't come through and actually take him! Then I think I'll get him that Hot wheels Mach 5 and Racer X 9 car set. should be fun.
The term apologist... by greenstyle92	May 12th, 2008 11:48:12 PM
actually has it's roots i

Talkbacks

Moriarty Interviews Joel Silver About SPEED RACER! Plus A Scoop On Who’s Directing SGT. ROCK!