Dog’s Movie House: “Franchises Galore For The Early Summer!”

 

Howdy Folks!  It’s The Kendog!

The Girls Of “Baywatch”

 

 

Franchises, franchises, and more franchises!  It seems that Hollywood is all about the franchise.  Between comic book movies, Star Wars, Star Trek, movie monsters both large and small, every single studio wants to create an interconnected universe that leads to huge paydays akin to the success of Marvel Studios.  Nowadays even established properties are continuing to plumb the depths of creativity to find that cinematic golden goose.  Three new films have come to theaters that do exactly that.  Both Alien and Pirates of the Caribbean are trying to invigorate new life into their franchises, while Dwayne Johnson is trying to start one of his own with a cinematic adaptation of the old Baywatch television series. Continue reading

The Kenblog: “Farewell To Sir Roger Moore!”

 

 

Howdy Folks!   It’s The Kendog!

Roger Moore As James Bond: 007

 

 

 

 

 

It’s with a heavy heart that I write of the passing of Sir Roger Moore, the classy actor who played the role of James Bond for more films than any other and for many children of the 70’s, including me, served as the ultimate incarnation of the character.   Moore died yesterday at the age of 89 after a short bout with cancer, leaving behind a legacy that not only included the world’s most suave superspy but one of incredibly dedicated public service that spoke to his kindness, generosity and heart.   Continue reading

Dog’s Movie House: “King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword” Energetic Fun!

 

Howdy Folks!  It’s The Kendog!

 

Charlie Hunnam as Arthur In “King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword”

 

 

 

I love me a good sword and sorcery movie.  From “Excalibur” to “The Lord Of The Rings” to even the uneven pleasures of a movie like “Krull” I can’t get enough of those mystical worlds involving kings and dragons and knights and damsels in distress.  The King Arthur tale is one of the most enduring of these stories and has been told in film many times, most recently with Antoine Fuqua’s 2004 version starring Clive Owen.  Now it’s Guy Ritchie’s turn and he’s given us an entirely different, yet very entertaining version of the classic story that you’ll enjoy a great deal if you’re not too attached to the standard tale. Continue reading

Dog’s Movie House: “Guardians: Vol 2” Kicks Off The Summer Movie Season With A Bang!

 

Howdy Folks!  It’s The Kendog!

 

Chris Pratt & Dave Bautista In “Guardians Of The Galaxy: Vol 2.”

I’ve been reading the reviews of some of my colleagues regarding Marvel Studios latest release, “Guardians Of The Galaxy, Vol 2” and I’m surprised at how many of them seem to say “It’s great . . .but” like some sort of qualification is needed to enjoy a movie.  The biggest complaint I’ve heard is that it’s not the “breath of fresh air” the original was.  Here’s the memo:  “OF COURSE IT ISN’T!”  The is the second film featuring the same characters, similar situations, and all of the things we liked about the first film.  There is obviously going to be a sense of familiarity with the second film.  That doesn’t mean “Vol. 2” can’t be as good its predecessor.  In point of fact both films are equally great, but for very different reasons.  Continue reading

The Trailer Dog Park: “The Dark Tower” Is Here!

Howdy Folks!  It’s The Kendog!

Idris Elba as Roland in “The Dark Tower”

 

 

I am a huge Stephen King fan and I count the Dark Tower Cycle among my favorite of his works.  I also understand that developing this sprawling saga for other mediums like the movies can be a daunting task.  The first film in a presumed franchise, “The Dark Tower” adaptation has been written by Akiva Goldsman and directed by Nikolaj Arcel.   Staying true to the books would probably be impossible, so I’ll have to judge the film based primarily on its cinematic merits and whether or not it gets the spirit of the book right.   Continue reading