We Back Up Our Saints
Reviews
Sinners and Saints: Movie Review
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Please check out my review for Sinners and Saints, a cop drama set in post-Katrina New Orleans and starring Johnny Strong, Costas Mandylor, Tom Berenger and Sean Patrick Flanery.
To see the review, go here:
http://www.movievine.com/?p=4979&preview=true
Review: Off the Boulevard
0607 days
by Cranialspasm
in Reviews
Now Available!
Off the Boulevard is, from start to finish, a labor of love for writer/director Jeff Santo. It chronicles the trials and tribulations of seven artists in various aspects of the entertainment industry. Featured: two musicians (Nick Nicholson, Keith Jackson), two filmmakers (Troy Duffy, Jeff Santo), two actors (David Della Rocco, Sanel Budimlic), and one comedian (Bob Rubin).
This movie is in a nutshell a necessary smack in the face with brutal realism. I believe it’s essential for everyone with the dream but not the drive to succeed in such a demanding and confusing industry to see this. It is damn near impossible to hop into the industry, but can be relatively simple to flush yourself from it.
It was great to also see clips of Peter Fonda (Easy Rider), Joe Mantegna (Criminal Minds), Gilby Clarke (Guns N’ Roses), Sonny Barger (Hell’s Angels), Dan Haggerty (Grizzly Adams), and Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam) smattered throughout with their impressions of what the industry definition of Independant actually is.
Through the documentary, the experiences were pretty heartbreaking. Being broke, working a day job to have those two days off to do what you love, getting screwed by a distributor. It is a carnival of sadness.
Is that a bad thing? In this case, no.
When you have to face the problems in order to do the thing you love, you have to have steadfast perseverance. Very few things are more uplifting than watching success happen. And no, it doesn’t happen overnight.
For More Information on how to obtain the film, please visit http://www.santofilms.com/store/OTBDVD.html
Check in on the seven artists featured in the documentary to see how they’re doing.
Troy Duffy http://www.boondocksaints.com/
Nick Nicholson http://www.nicknicholsonmusic.com/
Sanel Budimlic http://www.madeinbosna.com/
David Della Rocco http://www.daviddellarocco.com/
Keith Jackson http://www.myspace.com/glassheroes
Bob Rubin http://www.rubetime.com/
Jeff Santo http://www.santofilms.com/abus.html
Troy Duffy http://www.boondocksaints.com/
Nick Nicholson http://www.nicknicholsonmusic.com/
Sanel Budimlic http://www.madeinbosna.com/
David Della Rocco http://www.daviddellarocco.com/
Keith Jackson http://www.myspace.com/glassheroes
Bob Rubin http://www.rubetime.com/
Jeff Santo http://www.santofilms.com/abus.html
The Betties are Ready for The Walking Dead!
5936 days
The Walking Dead Premieres tonight on AMC! Grab your kid’s candy and sit back and enjoy the awesomeness that is Robert Kirkman’s world and Frank Darabont’s vision!
For a synopsis of the comic and my general excitement of the show, visit my post from August 25th.
I could not be more excited about this. I’m glad that I waited and didn’t peep the leaked episode. It’s Tantric TV!
Review: It’s Kind of a Funny Story
1958 days
by theboondockbetties
in Reviews
Craig (Keir Gilchrist) wakes one Sunday morning with the strong desire to take his own life. Instead, he hops on his bike and navigates through the streets of New York to get to the nearest hospital. He is admitted to 3 North, the adult lockdown wing and suddenly feels that his problems aren’t so bad.
He tries to leave but is notified that there is a five day minimum for psych evals and he has been admitted at the behest of a doctor (Aasif Mandvi). Unhappy with the situation, he decides to make the best of it. He takes the time to reflect on his depression and figure out how to bring some happiness into his life.
During his stay he is taken under the wing of Bobby (Zach Galifinakis), a fellow patient who is anxious about being accepted into a group home after the end of his allowed time on the psych wing. Craig meets Noelle (Emma Roberts), a fellow teen who is struggling with depression.
The movie takes place more in Craig’s head than in reality. It was tragically beautiful. Scenarios ran through his head that were so fanciful, when something outrageous was happening, I was unsure if it was something conjured up in his head. There was, however, this one sequence where Craig is introduced to his artistic side and you are taken through an illustration.
For the rest of this review, please visit my site
Music of the Moment: Son of Dave
0961 days
Recently, a friend had posted a few videos of this amazing artist on his facebook page. The videos blew my mind. In fact, here’s one. Start it up and either keep reading or groove out then continue.
Oh, and before I forget. Thank you Andrew. I LOVED watching the videos you had posted. You are pretty much my music soulmate.
He reminds me a little…
To read the rest of this, please visit cranialspasm.com
SuperMegaFest Shirts
0977 days
As most of you already know, we are going to have Boondock Bettie tank tops/t-shirts made for us to wear to SuperMegaFest that is being held November 19-20th in Framingham, Mass (Boston area).
I have created a sample of what it is going to look like and so far everyone seems on board with the design logo (courtesy of Melissa) and lettering. I have been trying to figure out an easy way to order these for everyone and I just think if I order all of them myself, it may get a bit crazy with trying to get people to send me the money, etc. I was going to set up a “Bettie Account” for everyone to use but then realized that would not be a good idea with everyone’s credit cards stored in the same spot. Therefore, I came to the conclusion we can do this one of two ways:
Option 1: Create an account on www.customizedgirl.com and design it yourself. Most of it is self-explanatory but you will need to have a picture of the logo and know what font/color to use for the lettering. I will put instructions below. The only thing I ask if you are going to wear this to MegaFest I’d like the shirt itself be black so we will all have the same color and be able to stand out as a group.
Option 2: Create an account on www.customizedgirl.com and send me your login information so I can design the shirt of your choice. Then after I am done of course, you can change your password and order it yourself.
If you aren’t going to MegaFest, you are still more than welcome to buy a shirt, and obviously those who are going are not obligated to buy one. I just thought it would be something fun for us to do.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR OPTION 1: (all lettering is in SILVER)
1. Choose the type of shirt you would like (tee, tank, etc) then the color black
2. Front of shirt: Line one: Boondock; Line two: Betties; Font=”Beyond Sky”; Font size=30
3. Click “upload image” to upload the logo from your computer to the shirt. (Logo is the Boondock Betties’ Facebook avatar)
4. Back of shirt: Line one: WE BACK UP (font size 16); Line two: OUR (font size 19); Line three: SAINTS! (font size 23); Font style for all lettering on back= “Storybook”
If you need to, please save a copy of the sample I put up on the Betties’ Facebook page to use as a guide to make sure you get the correct spacing for the letters and where the logo will go.
If you have any questions at all, please feel free to contact me on Facebook or Twitter (Drea0208) or you can email me at drea0124@gmail.com
Thank you!!!!! xoxoxoxo
Love, Andrea
Review: Boondock Saints – “The Lost Gig”
31118 days
The boys are back! AND THEY'RE ON A BOAT!
“The Lost Gig” is a 10 page vignette written by Troy Duffy and J.B. Love.
The teaser takes place in 1999, in between two pivotal points in the storyline. Anyone who has seen the movie remembers this scene. Rocco and the boys are sitting in the car outside of the strip club. Rocco announces that he knows all there is to know about the baddies in Boston and the three of them can clean house. After Connor announces his strange comfort with that idea, they decide to kick start their kick ass campaign by taking out a cocaine cartel before knocking off Vincenzo.
Without skipping a beat, the legacy continues. In only 48 panels, the boys are back in business! You get a reminder of how badly Rocco delivers a punch line, a taste of Murphy’s smartass sarcasm, and Connor’s energetic (and somewhat disturbing) delight in the act of violence.
The artist, Toby Cypress, captures the essence of the storyline with his dark and gritty illustrations. In 3 panels, he manages to fully capture the confusion and madness customary from a MacManus melee.
“The Lost Gig” is available in print exclusively from the official Boondock Saints Store at www.BoondockStore.com and digitally on the ComicStore platform via iTunes here : http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/the-boondock-saints-the-lost/id364910094?mt=8
This vignette whet my appetite for what is coming. The first installment in the Boondock Saints comic titled “In Nomine Patri: The Secret History of Il Duce” heads to a comic shop near you very soon.
Here’s a glimpse at how crisp the comic looks on an iPad.
Like I really needed another damn reason to get an iPad... Thanks Troy... *grumble*
Review originally posted on http://cranialspasm.com/2010/05/01/reviewbdslostgig/
Review: Meskada (2010)
01123 days
by theboondockbetties
in Reviews
April 24, 2010
I had the opportunity to view a showing of Meskada at the Tribeca Film Festival on April 24, 2010
Review: Meskada (2010)
The movie begins with a home invasion going terribly wrong. The resulting murder of a child rocks the town of Hilliard. Nick Stahl plays Noah Cordin, a detective assigned to investigate. Cordin and Meskada county detective Leslie Spencer (played by Rachel Nichols) discover a vague clue that leads Noah back to his hometown of Caswell.
He reconnects with his upbringing and the friends he had left behind. In the time that Noah has been gone, his hometown has fallen to poor financial times. Many of the townsfolk travel outside of the city to find whatever work they can. However, a manufacturer is planning to build a plant within Caswell, bringing much needed employment into the downtrodden town.
With the assistance of a Caswell officer and a local bar owner, Noah begins his investigation. His gut tells him that one of the men he had questioned was responsible, but without adequate evidence he returns to Hilliard. The mother of the murdered child (Allison Connor played by Laura Benanti) is a member of the Meskada County Board of Commissioners and after the mention of the culprit possibly living in Caswell, complications arise with the manufacturing plant being built.
Many inhabitants of Caswell begin their own investigation as to who the murderer is. They intend to turn the culprit into the authorities to get the plant planning back on track.
It was surprising how real it all felt. The story wasn’t set in an actual town/county and that worked to writer/director Josh Sternfeld‘s advantage. The unforgiveable murder of a child affects everyone in the community and it’s surrounding areas. There was even a moment in Det. Noah Cordin’s kitchen with his son Zack (played by Max Antisell) that shows that even the authorities were shaken to the core by this gruesome act of violence. The performance by Laura Benanti was staggering.
Sternfeld’s characters were so real and easy to relate to because they were beautifully flawed. Allison Connor wasn’t above using her position of power to get what she wanted. Nat Collins (played by Grace Gummer) was either completely devoted to her town and those in it, or incredibly naive. Dennis Burrows (played by Norman Reedus) was devious and underhanded, but his one redeeming quality was his love for his son. Shane Loakin (played by Jonathan Tucker) was so emotionally torn. He was tortured by his involvement in the destruction of a family. Tucker’s performance was quite possibly the most powerful in the movie.
Even Detective Noah Cordin was chalk full of flaws. His personal relationships suffered because of his desire to solve the case. His faith in humanity was questioned and his reactions were strong. His propensity for violence showed that even those working for the community have it in them to commit acts similar to those they mete out justice for.
We had arrived just as the movie started, so we were sitting in the front of the theater. I am sure there are things that I had missed, but I will not hesitate to see this movie again were it to come to my town.
Writer/Director Josh Sternfeld steps out for a brief Q&A after the film.
Originally posted on www.cranialspasm.com
Review: The Betties Take Boston – The Cast/Crew!
21159 days
I’m just going to say that this venue was so large that it was difficult to really carry out the conversations that I would have loved to have with each of the people involved. I LOVE big venues, but I get a little irritated when people flock around a person you’re chatting with. That’s why I think I reverted to “event photographer” mode… hehe…. Of course it had nothing to do with the Jamesons.
Instead, I’ll touch upon what I observed and the brief moments I had with some of the cast/crew (some longer than others).
Chris “CB” Brinker – CB was preoccupied with “wrangling’” for the majority of the evening, but was sweet and accommodating when pulled aside for pictures or asked a question. A true cowboy! If there was anyone that was running around the venue more than me, it was this man! He’s diligent and hard working, but still had the time to thank the fans and mingle. He even took a breather to watch some band action!
Let’s play “find CB” in the picture to the left and the picture below!
Troy Duffy – Irish, tattooed, creative, attractive, and chock full of energy. I ADORE this man! I had the chance to speak with him briefly. He was attentive, engaging, and always stopped for pictures or discussions with the fans. He was down to earth and very comfortable in his own skin. I do hope I have the opportunity to meet him again!
Troy even acted as crutches for a little while! The blonde in front of him had busted her leg, he was sweet enough to bend down and sign her cast.
Daniel DeSanto – Jenn (@Brash_Angel) once asked me on Twitter what my favorite scene was in Boondock Saints 2: All Saints Day was. I replied “My #faveboondocksaintsscene in the 2nd? When @Daniel_DeSanto is lying next to the priest. It’s humanizing to see an insecure hit man.” I’d heard that if someone can play a wicked bad dude (Oops! Still in Boston mode), they are typically a really great person in reality. Daniel reinforced that comment. To the fucking max. Daniel was full of cheer, energy, and the desire to meet and chill with as many fans as possible. He was gentlemanly and adorable! I’m looking forward to seeing what’s in the future in his career.
David Della Rocco – Oh Rocco! Where art thou? Heh. All I needed to do to find Roc was to look at people in a humongous circle around something and there he was! I only got to speak to him briefly outside while posing for a cigarette. He was concerned with keeping Jamie and I warm, LOL! Sweet guy!
Jamie is on the right. She’s also in the picture above with Daniel DeSanto.
Norman Reedus – I didn’t get to spend much time with Norm (probably for the best. I would have asked a bunch of questions about I Was a White Slave in Harlem) but that was because he was so determined to make every person’s night. He was amiable and was willing to pose any way you wanted for the photo (unless you’re Drea… Then it was middle fingers to fire her up!). He was one of the banes of the various coordinators asking him to go inside. He wanted to stay out and pose with fans/talk with them/sign things. I got to speak with him for a little bit, though he didn’t say much he was very sweet and seemed to get a kick out of Jamie, Lorelei, Feanix and I.
Bob Marley – Bob was rockin’ the house, hopping on stage during the bands and just dancing and singing along. I caught him in the crowd during the Dirges and we rocked out for a little bit and I managed to snag one of my favorite pics of the evening. I finally ran into him and told him I was going to see him that Saturday in Chicopee, MA. He gave me a big hug, posed for a pic, and then I didn’t chat with him again until a little after midnight on Saturday (so, Sunday, March 21, 2010) and he was nice enough to give a little synopsis of the Betties breaking Boston.
Bob Wants You! … To rock out to the Dirges!
It was a great evening and I figured since I did a post about the performers, I should probably appease those reading by letting ya’ll in on the men we lovingly refer to as “our boys”.
But wait! There’s more! A LADY! (Yes, I said that in my head like the Ladies Man. Simmer down.)
One of the highlights of my evening was meeting Angela Green-Duffy. This woman is sugar and spice with a dash of gunpowder. Not only is she BOOM! fantastic, she is also very Va Va Va Voom. She was rocking these boots with a dangerous stiletto heel that would have probably crippled me.
She was genuinely pleased to meet all of us, and even toasted the evening with Jamie and I before the bands set foot on the stage. Stellar fuckin’ lady. She has this incredibly intricate tattoo sleeve that I didn’t get to see all off, but I dug what I could see.
One day Angela, you and I shall get tattoos together.
Thank you so much for egging us Betties on! You’re the sexy sprite on our shoulders encouraging us to continue with our creative endeavors.
Review: The Betties Take Boston – Performers
01159 days
Sorry it has taken so long for me to recap the events of the evening.
Truth be told… I partied… like it was St. Paddy’s Day in Boston.
Instead of giving you all a blow by blow, I figured I would do a quick review of the performers while sipping on the sweet nectar that is Mac Allan 12 (Thanks Melissa! It’s very nom!).
Introductions
CB, Troy, Daniel, Rocco, and Norman hit the stage to welcome everyone to the event. They spouted on their immense love for the fans. They then introduced Bob and he stepped on stage to do his set.
Bob Marley
Bob spoke from the heart about important issues, like making sure you’re naked when the pizza guy comes so you don’t have to answer the door, and balls hanging for days. It was a hysterical set and I was lucky enough to get prime seating on the stairs of the stage (Thanks to A Duff!). Even from there I could hear the distant but distinct laughter coming from Jamie and Drea. Bob told a story of how he had partied a little too hard and woke up with his daughter standing over him in the kids’ playroom. She exclaimed “Found him!” Angela laughed hysterically and said “That REALLY HAPPENED!”
Bob’s set ended to a rousing applause and Troy returned to the stage to announce Ty Stone.
Ty Stone & the Truth
Ty started his set with a stirring version of “Danny Boy”. The powerhouse vocals that exit his mouth make my jaw drop and make me wonder why my bra came undone. Singing “Line of Blood” and “Sweet Thang” it was shocking how little his vocals were sweetened in the soundtrack (if they even were). His enthusiasm and comfort on the stage was evident. He had even joked that the band had to sober up for ten minutes before their set.
Taylor Duffy
With the help of Rae Rae from Ty Stone & the Truth, Bill and Pete from the Dirges, and Troy, Taylor rocked this bitch! He carried himself with poise and an inner confidence and talent that would make any seasoned performer jealous. He rocked out Plastic Jesus as he and Troy matched guitar stances. Face melting metal at its finest, folks!
The Dirges!
Yes, I added an exclamation point, because it’s the mother fucking Dirges, yo! Gritty, unapologetic punk! Such a versatile group! How versatile? Lookee at the break down!
Francis DeAngelo rocks lead vocals, guitar, and accordion! He thrashes around the stage like a motherfucker. I dig that.
“Tall” Pete Mathus (and he’s a friggin tall guy!) strums bass and sings in addition to helping out Taylor! First he rocks a set, then he fuckin’ hops on stage and throws that rock at the audience for a second time! How do you not have blisters dude?
Alicia Allen is a quad threat with guitar, mandolin, flute and vocals! Complete bad ass! I love strong, talented, empowered women who can also rock a pleated miniskirt!
If you asked Marc Strommer to hand you a list of what he does, you’d see a laundry list that includes lead guitar, lap steel, Dobro, mandolin, and vocals (not to mention general badassery)
Bill “Stuhlly” Bennenstuhl balances the group with the drums. He, like Pete, helps out a fellow musician (Taylor) and manages to rock harder with each song.
Quite simply, the Dirges kick you in the face with awesome. Disagree? There are a bunch of fans that would be more than happy to tattoo “awesome” on their foot and kick you in the face.
Bob Marley hopped up on stage to join in on the merriment too!
In the middle of the show, Troy hopped on stage to read us an email from Sony that was requested not to be read on stage. Sony informed Troy that BDS2:ASD DVD/Blu Ray debuted at #1 and that it was on track to sell thru the company’s initial shipment of ONE MILLION COPIES in North America in JUST TWO WEEKS! YEA YEA! They explained in the email that DVD sales of a movie that “only took in 11 million in the box office” in this magnitude were “unprecedented”.
The Dirges continued their set and filled the stage for their final song, “The Saints are Coming”. Heh, we were already so gone at that point! I could spot Betties on the stage rocking out. Some guy had even brought a toilet seat cover.
So to sum up… The final show in the BDS Tour rocked my fucking skull. Feel free to be jealous, but I’m not going to apologize for being there. The lineup was amazing; the offloading between sets was quick. This was a well-oiled machine and I was along for the ride.
Many, many, many thanks to everyone involved in this event that, though fuzzy, will remain in my heart as one of my top St. Patty’s Day experiences!
