Elton John’s Towering Inferno Of Hits!

Time to celebrate a period of time in the 70’s when one Artist ruled the charts – usually wearing some of rock’s wildest outfits!

There was no one more flamboyant on stage than Elton John in the early 70’s – but he had the smash hits to back it up – beginning in the early 70’s with “Your Song”, and then this smash hit:

“Rocket man burning out his fuse up here alone…”

Here is a live TV appearance from 1972, with Elton announcing that this new song is about to be released as a single…

Thanks to “Philip Anness” for posting this on youtube!

Elton’s String Of Hits!

“Rocket Man” was the beginning of a massive onslaught from the Singer/Songwriter – who wrote most of his material with Bernie Taupin. check out these facts, courtesy of wikipedia!

“The singles discography of British musician/singer-songwriter Elton John consists of 128 official singles and 17 as featured artist, as well as 40 other non-single guest appearances. Across his career, John has yielded 57 top 40 hits in the United States, only second to Elvis Presley in total,[1] with 27 of those hitting the top ten and 9 achieving number-one. In his native United Kingdom, he has accumulated 69 top 40 singles, including 32 top tens and 7 number-ones!”

Elton Crocodile Rocks To #1 Around The World!

His statistics are mind-boggling, and the songs are just great pop hits, like “Crocodile Rock”, which was a worldwide smash…here he is performing it live:

Thanks to “SteelheartMike” for posting on youtube!

“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road!”

In 1973, Elton John stunned the world with his masterpiece – and as you can tell by his shoes, he’s not afraid to show off as well!

From “Bennie And The Jets” to “Goodbye Norma Jean”, his heartfelt ode to Marilyn Monroe, Elton was on fire, with a double album full of incredible music. Pop hits, instrumentals, gritty rockers like “Your Sister Can’t Dance (But She Can Rock n’ Roll)”, and my favorite:

Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting)!

This is a terrific rocker, full of the energy of youth:

“Well they’re packed pretty tight in here tonight
I’m looking for a dolly who’ll see me right
I may use a little muscle to get what I need
I may sink a little drink and shout out she’s with me

A couple of the sound that I really like
Are the sounds of a switchblade and a motorbike
I’m a juvenile product of the working class
Whose best friend floats in the bottom of a glass, oh

Don’t give us none of your aggravation
We had it with your discipline
Saturday night’s alright for fighting
Get a little action in”

Just terrific songwriting from his writing partner Bernie Taupin. Here is a great live version from the 70’s:

Thanks to “bccsrox’s channel” for uploading this terrific version on youtube!

“Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me”, “The Bitch Is Back” and “Philadelphia Freedom” were just a few of his mega-hits that followed, but if you want to see just how wild Elton got, then check out his outfit as he performs “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds” on Cher’s TV show:

Thanks to “EltonJohnVideos” for posting this on youtube!

Then there is this version of the same song from England’s “Top Of The Pops” in 1974 – you must see it just for his glasses!

Thanks to “exclusivevids1000” for posting this gem!

Elton’s A “Pinball Wizard!”

It all culminated in John’s raucous performance in The Who’s “Tommy” film, directed by flamboyant British Director Ken Russell!

Check out this raucous performance in very very VERY big boots!

Go out and buy this film – it’s amazing!

There’s no doubt that the films’ release coincided with the height of Elton John’s popularity…

Ann-Margret Rocks Too!

Iconic Hollywood Actress Ann-Margret also had a memorable turn in the movie “Tommy” as well, thanks to a room full of baked beans…

Yes, she rolled around in them! See that iconic scene here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/23/hollywoods-legendary-sex-kitten-ann-margret-rock-operas-baked-beans-elvis/

One of Elton John’s most memorable songs from “Yellow Brick Road” has become the best selling song of all time…

Here is what wikipedia reports:

“In 1997, John released the double A-side single “Something About the Way You Look Tonight”/”Candle in the Wind 1997″ in dedication to the memory of Diana, Princess of Wales. It subsequently hit number-one in every country that it charted in and became the biggest selling single of all-time since the UK and US charts began in the 1950s, with sales of 33 million.”

Here is that haunting performance from her funeral:

Elton John has continued to release terrific new music since the 70’s, with smash hits and brilliant albums…bravo to him for his talent – and his choice of eyewear!

From “O” To “007”!

Meet Corinne Clery – who went from not”O”rious to 007! Some of the best “Bond girls” from the past were outstanding Actresses with a fascinating body of work – and Clery is no different!

“O” My!

Cléry first came to prominence in the controversial movie “The Story of O” in 1975. The original book was published decades early, and is a notorious erotic novel about submission – the “50 Shades Of Gray” of its time…

She also modelled for the cover of French magazine Lui – holding a huge copy of the novel upon which the film is based! She was one of the most popular models in the 70’s…

A “Bond Girl” Too!

Cléry is also noted for playing Bond girl Corinne Dufour, antagonist Hugo Drax’s assistant, in the 1979 James Bond film “Moonraker.”

More Bond Connections!

She also starred with another Bond girl, Barbara Bach (who played Anya Amasova in “The Spy Who Loved Me”) and another Bond villain Richard Kiel (who played Bond villain Jaws) in the 1979 film “The Humanoid”.

Corinne graced the cover of many magazines in the 70’s, including one of Playboys international editions…and she was fearless in her movie choices, including this brutal thriller from 1977:

“Hitch Hike” also stars Franco Nero, and is an intense thriller about a couple who pick up the wrong hitchhiker…it’s a European film, and some of the foreign advertising was shocking for its time!

“Hitch Hike” is a great action film from he 70’s, but is full of graphic sexuality, including many shots of Clery like this:

You can read more about this obscure thriller by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/02/05/thumbs-up-knives-out-cult-classic-hitchhiking-exploitation/

One of Clery’s later roles was in the 1983 film “Yor, the Hunter from the Future” –

Clery hasn’t made a film in more than twenty years, but managed to achieve iconic status for her wide range of great work – in some very controversial movies…

Let me know how many of her films you’ve seen, and bravo to her for a terrific body of work!

If you want to see more “Bond girls”, how about this terrific Actress?

Caroline Munro was a great “Bond girl”, and you can see her great body of work here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/06/19/caroline-munro-from-sex-kitten-to-vincent-price-to-bond-girl-a-maniac-too/

Of course, the first “Bond girl” set the standard for great performances in 007 films:

Ursula Andress set the standard when she stepped out of the ocean in “Dr. No”…read all about her work here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/03/28/ursula-andress-or-undress-007s-first-bond-girl-60s-sex-kitten-frolicked-with-nature/

Let me know your favorite Bond girl!

Paul And Ringo’s Mini-Beatles Reunion!

This funny image is from the music video for “So Bad”, one of the playful songs from “Pipes Of Peace”. Ringo and Paul recorded together again after years apart. “Pipes” is a “debated” entry in the McCartney solo canon – some like it for the collection of pop hits it contains, while others decry the saccharine nature of some of the music…so which is it?

Let’s take a listen!

Analyzing Paul’s “Pipes!”

“Pipes Of Peace” was released in 1983, and was the follow-up to Paul’s popular “Tug of War” album, which included Paul’s poignant song to John Lennon, “Here Today.”

“Pipes” has many similarities to “Tug” – partly because some of the songs were recorded during the “Tug Of War” sessions!

More “Tug Of War” Comparisons!

As I said, many of the songs were actually recorded during the “Tug” sessions, and was originally considered for a double album release. “Pipes” was produced by George Martin, and both albums featured Paul singing two songs with other Artists. On “Tug” is was Stevie Wonder, and on “Pipes”, Paul sang twice with Michael Jackson.

(FILES) Photo dated on December 19, 1983 shows British singer Paul McCartney and US pop star Michael Jackson (R). Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009 after suffering a cardiac arrest, sending shockwaves sweeping across the world and tributes pouring for the tortured music icon revered as the “King of Pop.” AFP PHOTO (Photo credit should read -/AFP/Getty Images)

Here are the songs on “Pipes Of Peace”, beginning with the title track:

“Pipes of Peace”

The lyrics offer up a straightforward call to peace:

“All’round The World
Little Children Being Born To The World
Got To Give Them All We Can ‘Til The War Is Won
Then Will The Work Be Done

Help Them To Learn (Help Them To Learn)
Songs Of Joy Instead Of Burn, Baby, Burn (Burn, Baby Burn)
Let Us Show Them How To Play The Pipes Of Peace
Play The Pipes Of Peace”

Here is the official music video, with Paul playing a World War 1 soldier:

Next up is the album’s biggest hit single, the duet with Michael Jackson:

“Say Say Say”

The music video was directed by Bob Giraldi, and the song became a number one hit in the US after its release in 1983.

Watch Linda ask the crowd to “step right up!” to open the video:

“The Other Me” and “Keep Under Cover” are next – two mid-tempo pop songs that are clearly album tracks but nice to listen to, then comes a song that speaks to what divides fans about this album:

“So Bad”

Some fans love the beautiful melody of “So Bad”, while others have posted comments against the song, which explodes into a syrupy sounding chorus that is highly orchestrated and very saccharine…watch the music video and decide for yourself:

Side two is up next, and it begins with the other Michael Jackson collaboration:

“The Man”

“The Man” is also a great melody that is very heavily produced.

Here is the song’s music video, covered with a lot of great home video footage. As noted on YouTube:

“Michael Jackson was invited to stay with the McCartney family during 1981, during which time he and Paul wrote ‘Say Say Say’. Rare and previously unreleased home movie footage filmed by Paul McCartney and Linda McCartney, Sussex 1981.”

Check it out:

Bravo to “JThrillington” for sharing on Youtube…fascinating behind-the-scenes material of Paul and Michael, as well as Macca’s family.

“Sweetest Little Show” and “Average Person” are next, more catchy pop clocking in under three minutes each.

“Average Person” reminds me of Paul’s standard groove – a slice of pop with a catchy beat.

“Hey Hey”

This is a song that, to me, showed Paul’s interest in experimentation, something he has done throughout his career.

This track begins with a somewhat raucous instrumental, which wouldn’t be out of place on “Back To The Egg” or “McCartney 2” – and then at 1:24 into the song, it shifts to a soft melodic groove, then back to the crunchy rock groove….

As I said, I like this kind of experimentation, which Macca had just done a couple years earlier with his electronic “McCartney 2” – also polarizing when released, now considered a masterpiece…see some of those incredible videos here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/11/28/mccartney-ii-paul-mccartneys-experimental-masterpiece-the-secret-stories-of-mccartney-ii/

This leads to McCartney’s unique “mashup” of “Tug Of War” AND “Pipes Of Peace”:

“Tug of Peace”

This song begins with an audio montage of voices and beats, suggesting another instrumental with a jazzy funk to it – then jumps into a “It’s a Tug Of War” chant – and Paul raps!

“It’s a tug of war
No no, your troubles cease when you learn to play the pipes of peace”

Yes, Paul talks over the chanting of the opening track to his previous album! It’s offered up with a funky bass line laid down underneath…a very unique song.
On the next track, “Tug Of Peace” Paul is clearly rapping some of the lyrics – in 1983!

“Through Our Love”

The album ends with a big love song, pure McCartney, but as with the other songs on the albums, barely three-and-a-half minutes…all of the songs are economical – set up the chorus, knock it out of the park, go home!

No “Peace” From The Critics!

While “Tug Of War” was given strong reviews, Critics didn’t feel the same way about “Pipes”:

The British magazine NME called it:

“a dull, tired and empty collection of quasi-funk and gooey rock arrangements … with McCartney cooing platitudinous sentiments on a set of lyrics seemingly made up on the spur of the moment.”

Time Has Been More Kind:

Paul released a special edition of the album in 20915, and Pitchfork Media notes that at the time of the original release:

“Some critics derided McCartney for aging gracelessly”, yet “a good listen to the album today reveals some ways it was ahead of its time.”

“Pipes Of Peace” came close to matching the commercial success of “Tug Of War”, and had two big hit singles: “Say Say Say” and the title track.

McCartney went right from recording the album to working on “Give My Regards To Broad Street”, his movie musical.

That movie didn’t do well, but Paul just kept on making music: however, next up, Paul made one of his rare mis-steps: an album with no hit singles, a very 80’s sound that for many felt out of touch with who Paul is as an Artist, and it bombed:

“Press To Play” sounds very much like the 80’s, and for some fans, didn’t sound enough like Paul.

Read all about “Press To Play” by clicking on my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/24/paul-mccartneys-press-to-play-disaster-a-critical-re-examination/

Paul never slowed down, even with failure, continuing to record music – and next, he took on a writing partner as well!

Take a look at his triumphant return to form with “Flowers In The Dirt” – and his musical collaboration with Elvis Costello – by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/02/28/paul-mccartney-meets-elvis-costello-raucous-macca-ensues-on-flowers-in-the-dirt/

Let me know what you think of “Pipes Of Peace.”

“Nudge Nudge Wink Wink…Say No More, Say No More…”

One classic genre of movie that needs to be embraced is “Brit-sploitation” – comedies that make fun of – and embrace – the very British take on sex – because they are coming back, thanks to the digital revolution!

The Brits had a steady stream of comedic sex comedies in the 70’s, including a series that was based on books by Timothy Lea. That’s right, our friends in England grew up with a series of “sex comedies” that were based on all sort of dirty “confessions”!

In the US, the early wave of sexploitation always involved murder and mayhem, along with tons of nudity. For the Brits, their 70’s sexploitation films were comedies!

Confessions Of A Driving Instructor

This “confessions” series saw star Timothy Lea always get involved in “randy” sex romps, like this one, when he and his brother-in-law Sidney decide to open a driving school as their latest get-rich-quick scheme.

“Hey, Is That A Stick Shift, Or…?”

Cue just about any sexual innuendo you like, because that is what drove these films to success! Though he sincerely wants to teach, young Timmy finds that his female students are far more interested in keeping their eyes on him than on the road! Of COURSE they are!

Check out this vintage trailer:

See more classic clips and pics here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/09/30/confessions-of-the-sex-obsessed-british-70s-cult-sex-comedies-are-back/

And if you want to keep it “naughty” – check this out!

“We guarantee a laugh a minute in the zaniest film you’ve EVER seen!”

How can you argue with a “laugh a minute?” Especially when it’s from one of James Bond’s best Directors!

Time to look at a classic British sex comedy, shaken NOT stirred!

Here’s the plot: a scriptwriter, a producer and a director are called in by Benny Murdoch, an exotic movie producer. He wants to make a new erotic movie starring a big woman – “Eskimo Nell!”

As with all classic sex farces, there are plenty of problems. The scriptwriter is a virgin, and each of the three main big $$$ Investors want a different type of movie – one wants a western, another demands an erotic drama, and the last wants a kung-fu movie!

This is classic British sex farce, which means Monty Python-type comedy and lots of nudity! It was directed by Martin Campbell, who went on to make the great /bond film “GoldenEye”!

See more of the “Eskimo Nell” craziness here:

Sexy “Eskimo Nell”! Erotic “Keep It Up Downstairs”! Classic British Sex Comedies! James Bond’s Naughty Director!

Not all of England’s “brit-sploitation” films were comedies – one was a campy horror story!

Wait until you uncover the wacky antics of this campy cult horror class known as “Girly!” I mean, you have to celebrate a neglected horror movie that had the audacity to originally be called:

“MUMSY, SONNY, NANNY AND GIRLY!”

Yes, “Girly!” is obscure cinema of the highest order – and time to also acknowledge and appreciate British sex kitten Vanessa Howard!

Vanessa Howard starred in a number of acclaimed horror films in the early 70’s, but never achieved mainstream success…

Her big hit was the wacky film “Girly”, which Variety described as:

“A macabre combo of Disney and Hammer films!”

Adolescent brother and sister Girly and Sonny live in a decaying countryside mansion run by their Mumsy and their maid-attired Nanny – hence the original wacky title!

See more of this wackiness here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/10/15/killer-girly-sex-kitten-vanessa-howards-neglected-british-horror-thriller/

Let me know your favorite campy Brit-sploitation movies!

Shocktober Gets Bloody Naked!

As we head into day #5 of our “Shocktober” fun, I need to share a warning:

NUDITY AND CULT EROTIC HORROR AHEAD!

Yes, I need to warn you that some of the images to follow include nudity – because this story is about a time when movie studios were desperate to keep up with the times, and if a horror film was going to connect with an audience, it had to look current even if it took place in the past!

Yes, the 70’s were a time when all rules were thrown out the window as movie studios struggled to stay current…and this was how one iconic horror studio took timeless horror stories and sexed them up!

It’s Hammer Time!

Hammer films became legendary in the 50’s and 60’s by offering up vintage horror tales with Dracula, Frankenstein, and lots of medieval atmosphere!

However, by the 70’s, movie studios were amping up the sex and violence, and that meant taking a classic horror genre and spicing it up!

And guess what? It worked! Let’s look at some of Hammer’s best erotic horror films from the 70’s – the golden age of naked horror!

Celebrate Shocktober With The Karnstein Trilogy!

If you want a bit of sex and nudity along with your shocks and scares, then I have just the trilogy for you!

The Karnstein Trilogy was based loosely on J. Sheridan Le Fanu’s early vampire novella Carmilla. These three films were a major step forward for Hammer – as they showed some of the most explicit scenes of lesbianism yet seen in mainstream English language films!

The Vampire Lovers (1970) – “Taste The Deadly Passion Of The Blood-Nymphs!”

First, check out this classic movie trailer!

Here’s the simple plot: The Countess is called away to tend a sick friend – so she asks her friend the General to let her daughter Marcilla stay as a house guest. Of course, soon villagers begin dying, and the General’s daughter Laura gets weak and pale – but Marcilla is there to comfort her. Like I said, Hammer went lesbian!

Of course the villagers rebel, more people die, and there is a lot of nudity and female-on-female vampire action, thanks to Marcilla…

Marcilla: You must die! Everybody must die!

Legendary Horror Actor Peter Cushing starred in the film as well, and got to hold some fun props:

Baron Joachim von Hartog: They were all evil and remain evil after death!

They sure are…and, in trying to be more contemporary, there were plenty of scenes that allowed the Actresses the chance to “work” together:

I love the posters of this era, including this one from overseas:

After the success of “The Vampire Lovers”, another film in the series quickly followed…

Lust for a Vampire (1971)

“Welcome To The Finishing School – Where They Really DO Finish You!”

How can you argue with THAT? Check out the trailer:

In 1830, forty years to the day since the last manifestation of their dreaded vampirism, the Karnstein heirs use the blood of an innocent to bring forth the evil that is the beautiful Mircalla – or as she was in 1710, Carmilla.

The nearby Finishing School offers rich pickings not only in in the blood of nubile young ladies but also with the headmaster who is desperate to become Mircalla’s disciple. Again, lots of beautiful women taking their clothes off for the sake of horror.

The film has a cult following, and its most famous scene shows Actress Yutte Stensgaard drenched in blood and partially covered by blood-soaked rags…a good look for a horror film…

Hammer films began to showcase much more flesh to go along with the blood, which was their only way to compete against the more modern films of the time…

As good as “The Vampire Lovers” and “Lust For A Vampire” were, the masterpiece of the three was the final film in the trilogy…and as you can see from the poster, they were selling it on explicitness!

Twins of Evil (1971) – AKA “Twins Of Dracula!”

“In Old Gothic Europe They Had Two Burning Passions: Witch Hunting and Devil Worship!”

They sure do, no matter which title you use – because they used them both! Let’s check it out:

“Twins of Evil” starred Peter Cushing, along with the real-life twins and former Playboy Playmates Mary and Madeleine Collinson. Yes, the twins had been in Playboy in October, 1970 – and Hammer saw a smart commercial idea when they saw one – put them in a horror movie and make them wear lots of lingerie!

It is the third film of The Karnstein Trilogy, based on the vampire tale Carmilla by Sheridan Le Fanu. The film has the least resemblance to the novel and adds a witch hunting theme to the vampire story.

Much of the interest of the film revolves around the contrasting evil and good natures of two beautiful sisters, Frieda and Maria Gellhorn. Of course, all of the publicity shots focused on the twins in all their sexy glory…

The plot allowed plenty of opportunity for the girls to undress – and of course, for one of them to be EVIL…

As you can see, the twins were front and center for nudity and bloodletting…

While I love a good “nude Shocktober”, let’s not also forget it is a month for shocks, shocks, SHOCKS!

Luckily, Eli Roth remembers that, and delivered a shocking tale of cannibal horror – which was day #4 of Shocktober:

Check out this master of horror here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/04/shocktober-day-4-goes-cannibalistic-enter-the-green-inferno-ei-roths-cannibal-holocaust-homage/

And never forget that this is one of the most iconic images in horror history:

I began “Shocktober 2016” with a look at one of the most horrific movies ever made – check out the story behind “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/01/shocktober-is-here-31-days-of-horror-day-1-slices-up-the-texas-chainsaw-massacre/

On this 5th day of “Shocktober 2016” – enjoy this trilogy of blood and lust as we countdown the best of “Shocktober!”

Here is the new look of horror – and a great way to celebrate “Shocktober 2016!”

All Hail New Horror Master Ben Wheatley!

If you don’t know Director Ben Wheatley, you need to in a hurry! His fourth film just won a special jury prize, and it’s a new way to make an unsettling horror film!

First, a bit about the Director:

British Director Ben Wheatley got his start doing commercials and music videos, then made several acclaimed viral videos for the web. That led to him getting the opportunity to direct features. He is a bold new talent emerging from the UK, with a distinctive style, and a twisted sense of humor!

Let’s look at his first three films quickly – all are largely overlooked here in the US, but were critical hits in England: In May 2009 he directed the feature film “Down Terrace” in eight days; it won the Next Wave prize at Fantastic Fest in Austin and Best UK Feature at Raindance in London.

Here’s the trailer:

The plot is very straightforward: A crime family looks to unmask the police informant in their midst who threatens to take down their business. It’s to Wheatley’s credit that he created a critically-acclaimed film with no time or money…

Next up is a very dark and twisted tale of revenge, murder and madness!

Kill List

“I fucking hate dirty soap.”

Nearly a year after a botched job, a hit man takes a new assignment with the promise of a big payoff for three killings. What starts off as an easy task soon unravels, sending the killer into the heart of darkness.

Here’s the trailer!

This film was released “unrated” for a reason – it’s a violent, dark and twisted thriller that doesn’t pull a punch!

It is also a horror movie of incredible intensity – see more about the film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/19/kill-list-director-ben-wheatleys-shocking-thriller-brilliant-hit-man-horror/

And speaking of not pulling punches:

Sightseers

“Police are pursuing a ginger-faced man and an angry woman…”

Boy, are they ever! Check out the trailer!

His next movie was a perverse black comedy about two lovers who travel the British countryside, killing anyone who gets in their way…as you can see by the trailer, it’s a British “Badlands meets Natural Born Killers!”

All of this led to his next film = a low budget, black-and-white meditation on horror:

A Field In England!

Friend: You think about a thing before you touch it, am I right?
Whitehead: Is that not usual?
Friend: Not in Essex.

Check out the trailer!

Here’s the plot: fleeing for their lives, a small party abandon their Civil War confederates and escape through an overgrown field. Thinking only of what lay behind, they are ambushed by two dangerous men and made to search the field.

Psychedelia, madness and chaotic forces slowly overtake the group as they question what treasure lies within the malignant field.

Wheatley’s latest movie was the terrific “High Rise” – which is currently available on demand and Blu-ray – another terrific thriller.

if you are in the mood for more classic horror, then nothing beats this:

Yes, the film that made Frank Sinatra divorce Mia Farrow! Check out the story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/08/shocktober-day-8-satans-spawn-rosemarys-baby-shocks-mia-farrows-marriage/

It’s been a full “Shocktober 2016” already, and if you missed any, head to my home page to find all of them, like this subtle shocker:

Yes, one of the cinema’s most shocking films – with very little blood! Read the behind-the-scenes stories of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/01/shocktober-is-here-31-days-of-horror-day-1-slices-up-the-texas-chainsaw-massacre/

There are more subtle films as well, still effective horror films, like this one:

Legendary Actor George C. Scott brings gravitas to this great horror film, see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/02/shocktober-2016-haunted-house-the-changeling-spooks-day-2/

If you want something more shocking, I’ve got a good for you as well:

Try this great modern horror film, “High Tension”, by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/23/shoctober-day-23-stabs-you-with-high-tension-and-a-switchblade-romance/

Lots of great horror for Halloween, including many from Ben Wheatley!

So check out this “Field In England” and get your experimental Shocktober going!

Having A Good Shocktober 2016?

As you can see, Ernest Borgnine doesn’t like rats, but he’s just frightened by how much fun this Halloween season has been so far!

Shocktober 2016 is counting down to Halloween night, and here is a look at some of this month’s movies:

“Godzilla” Is Back!

Yep, the new “Godzilla: Resurgence” film is out, so you can see the big guy on the big screen! Check out the new trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/11/shocktober-day-11-godzilla-is-back-with-a-resurgence-new-monster-go-go-godzilla/

If you want to see some classic cult horror, then gnaw on this film:

Not only was “Willard” a big hit, but Michael Jackson sang the theme song for the sequel “Ben!”

See Jackson’s live performance on the Academy Awards by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/willard-shocktober-day-12-smells-a-rat-ben-gnaws-at-your-horror-bone/

On the 13th day of Shocktober, I naturally focused on the most famous “13” of all:

See the trailer for the first “Friday the 13th” film – with a very young Kevin Bacon, by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/13/friday-the-13th-shocktober-day-13-goes-to-bloody-crystal-lake-friday-the-13th-monster-jason-voorhees/

On the 14th day of Shocktober, I took you overseas for some bloody Italian “gallo” films:

These slasher films are bloody good fun for Halloween – here are a bunch of options:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/14/shocktober-day-14-is-a-locked-room-of-slashing-giallo/

I also stopped by France to share with you a moody, nudity-drenched horror film:

French Director Jean Rollin made some great horror films, see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/15/living-dead-girl-shocktober-day-15-swings-a-bloody-scythe-a-shocking-fascination/

Back in the US, I took a bloody good ride on the “Terror Train”:

This early 80’s classic stars scream queen Jamie Lee Curtis – check out the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/16/shocktober-day-16-rides-a-bloody-terror-train-scream-queen-jamie-lee-curtis-slices-the-rails/

Here’s a different kind of scream queen – a naked one with a tail!

This dark norwegian horror film is a gem – see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/17/shocktober-horrific-day-17-with-a-tail-shocking-thale-and-bonus-troll-hunter/

Also, a big contest this Halloween season – want to spend Halloween night in Dracula’s castle?

Fill up these caskets, thanks to a great AirBNB contest to stay overnight in Vlad the Impaler’s castle! Read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/18/win-the-chance-to-sleep-in-count-draculas-castle-countess-dracula-bites-on-shocktober-day-18/

If creepy accommodations are your thing, then you’ll want to hang out with Jessica, who has some “wet” friends coming over to visit her:

See the creepy “Let’s Scare Jessica To Death” trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/19/shocktober-day-19-scares-jessica-to-death-eerie-psychological-horror/

Now, from the sublime to the raucous!

Checkout Linnea Quigley and “Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers!”

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/20/shocktober-20th-linnea-quigleys-naked-living-dead-dance-plus-chainsaw-hookers/

If you missed any of the first ten days of Shocktober, then see the list here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/the-first-ten-days-of-shocktober-chainsaws-naked-vampires-scream-queens-clowns-galore/

Happy Halloween!

You all remember crazy Jack Nicholson…uttering horror’s most iconic line:

Heeere’s Johnny!

On this 27th day of “Shocktober 2016”, let’s look at one of the most influential horror films of all time, from one of the world’s greatest filmmakers – need proof?

4.2.7

Legendary Director Stanley Kubrick had already blown our minds with “Dr. Strangelove”, “Lolita”, “2001: A Space Odyssey”, and the futuristic horror of “A Clockwork Orange”…now he wanted us to spend a little time with his friend Jack Nicholson…he chose one of Stephen King’s greatest novels to do just that…

“Some places are like people: some shine and some don’t.”

The plot of “The Shining” is simple: A man, his son and wife become the winter caretakers of an isolated hotel. Six months of quiet desolation, a place for Danny to explore…

Unfortunately, little Danny sees disturbing visions of the hotel’s past – using a telepathic gift known as “The Shining”. Example? How about the twins he sees in the hallway…

And then of course, Danny sees more…as the horrific images continue…and there is no one to confide in…

The father, played with intense glee by Jack Nicholson, is working on a writing project when he slowly slips into insanity as a result of cabin fever – oh, and the advice he gets from former Hotel guests. After being convinced by a waiter’s ghost to “correct” the family, Jack goes completely insane.

To announce “The Shining”, Warner Brothers released a teaser trailer that had just one shot – a wide shot of an elevator in a hotel lobby – but what happened next shocked the world:

Stanley Kubrick, known for his compulsiveness and numerous retakes, got the shot of blood pouring from the elevators in only three takes. That said, the shot took nine days to set up; every time the doors opened and the blood poured out, Kubrick would say, “It doesn’t look like blood.”

Shelley Duvall stars as Jack’s wife, who wants nothing more than to protect their child from evil…and the more time she spends with her husband, the less sure she is of him:

Wendy Torrance: [crying] Stay away from me.
Jack Torrance: Why?
Wendy Torrance: I just wanna go back to my room!
Jack Torrance: Why?
Wendy Torrance: Well, I’m very confused, and I just need time to think things over!
Jack Torrance: You’ve had your whole FUCKING LIFE to think things over, what good’s a few minutes more gonna do you now?
Wendy Torrance: Please! Don’t hurt me!
Jack Torrance: I’m not gonna hurt you.
Wendy Torrance: Stay away from me!
Jack Torrance: Wendy? Darling? Light, of my life. I’m not gonna hurt ya. You didn’t let me finish my sentence. I said, I’m not gonna hurt ya. I’m just going to bash your brains in.
[Wendy gasps]

Jack Torrance: Gonna bash ’em right the fuck in! ha ha ha
Wendy Torrance: Stay away from me! Don’t hurt me!
Jack Torrance: [sarcastically] I’m not gonna hurt ya…
Wendy Torrance: Stay away! Stop it!
Jack Torrance: Stop swingin’ the bat. Put the bat down, Wendy. Wendy? Give me the bat…

Stanley Kubrick was a perfectionist, and according to IMDB, there is a great deal of confusion regarding the number of retakes of certain scenes. According to the Guinness Book of Records, the scene where Wendy is backing up the stairs swinging the baseball bat was shot 127 times, which is a record for the most takes of a single scene. However, both Steadicam operator Garrett Brown and assistant editor Gordon Stainforth say this is inaccurate – the scene was shot about 35-45 times. Brown does say however that the scene where Hallorann explains to Danny what shining is was shot 148 times, which is a world record.

Of course, when Jack finally snaps, he grabs a handy and ax and heads for the bathroom….this scene culminates in the classic movie line:

“Here’s Johnny!”

“Here’s Johnny!” was voted 36th best line of all time by Premiere in 2007.

“The Shining” is a masterpiece, and a great scary movie…and has birthed a new documentary that delves into the film in a very unusual way…

Room 237

Imagine film buffs who are so obsessed with “The Shining” that they have created a number of amazing theories about what Kubrick was doing in the film! Here is the trailer for this documentary:

So what exactly is “Room 237”?

Here is how IMDB describes it:

“A subjective documentary that explores the numerous theories about the hidden meanings within Stanley Kubrick’s film The Shining. The film may be over 30 years old but it continues to inspire debate, speculation, and mystery.”

Five very different points of view are illuminated through voice over, film clips, animation and dramatic reenactments. Together they’ll draw the audience into a new maze, one with endless detours and dead ends, many ways in, but no way out.”

Rodney Ascher’s debut in the field of documentary was originally intended as a short film but he was overwhelmed by the breadth of crackpot theories which center on the horror classic. The participants have tried to understand this work by film’s ultimate perfectionist by trusting that if it is on-screen, then Kubrick intended it to be seen and read closely!

Among the “clues” that Kubrick has put in the film are that he helped fake the moon-landing!

Now 36 years old, “The Shining” continues to entertain audiences, and last year, Warner Brothers held an amazing reunion for the film!

Click here to see who turned up for this event!

https://johnrieber.com/2015/05/26/incredible-the-shining-35th-anniversary-event-huge-cast-reunion-working-with-stanley-kubrick/

Also on my list of the greatest horror films of all time is John Carpenter’s classic film:

“The Thing” is full of creepy dread and shocking special effects – see my story about this classic horror film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/26/the-thing-shocks-halloween-horror-day-26-man-is-the-warmest-place-to-hide/

“The Thing” is one of the greatest horror films ever made – but the entire month is full of classic Halloween gems – like this one:

“Let’s Scare Jessica To Death” is a neglected horror gem – see the trailer – plus a bunch of other great horror films, by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/24/shocktober-2016-ten-more-horror-classics-for-halloween/

Loving this Shocktober countdown!

Paul McCartney’s One Time Only Supergroup – Macca’s “Rockestra!”

The great “Rockestra Theme” is one of Paul McCartney’s great instrumentals – and the last song ever performed with Wings! It’s also a Grammy winning song that started a whole new category for those awards…time to celebrate this song – performed by an all-star band!

“Rockestra” Visits Abbey Road!

The song “Rockestra Theme” is the last song on the “Back To The Egg” album, and was recorded on October 3 1978 at Abbey Road Studios by an all-star collection of musicians dubbed “Rockestra”!

The studio was full of big name musicians taking part – take a look at the music video – you will see a number of familiar faces!

The All-Star Band!

A lot of friends were there that day playing on the record. Among the Musicians who performed on this song:

David Gilmour from Pink Floyd, The Who’s Pete Townshend, and legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, along with Zeppelin bandmate John Paul Jones!

Thanks to youtube, here is a vintage ten minute promotional reel of the recording session for the song – wth lots of guest appearances and fun behind-the-scenes moments!

In a 2001 interview on VH1, McCartney said Keith Moon was to have taken part in “Rockestra” but died one month before the recording sessions took place.

The Concerts For The People Of Kampuchea!

The “Rockestra Theme” was a great collaboration from a number of great Musicians.

The song was performed one more time – live this time, at an amazing charity event. “The Concerts for the People of Kampuchea” was a huge fundraising concert that featured Queen, The Clash, The Pretenders, The Who, Elvis Costello, Wings, Robert Plant and many more artists – it took place at the Hammersmith Odeon in London, England in December 1979 to raise money for the victims of war-torn Cambodia.

Here is a look at the tracks that are on the live double album – which I own:

The event was organized by McCartney and Kurt Waldheim, and it raised a ton of money – and more importantly awareness – for the war-town country.

One Whole Side Of Wings”

The double album included a whole side of Wings music – along with some Beatles AND a new McCartney solo song, “Coming Up!” – check it out!

These concerts helped raise money for a great cause, and the concert and album was a great success. It was however, the last time that Wings would perform live…

Time To “Rockestra” Live!

The huge finale was the live performance of the “Rockestra Theme”, with an all-star cast onstage.

Here is that amazing live performance, with a stage full of guitarists, led by Pete Townsend:

Polish That “Silver Wear”!

Most of the Rockestra wore silver suits for this performance – except for Pete Townsend, who decided not to – you can see him standing out on the live performance – because he’s the one without the Silver Coat!

The Song Gets Grammy Gold!

The live version of “Rockestra Theme” is terrific, and it is always great to see musicians taking part in good causes like this. Even though the song wasn’t a hit, “Rockestra Theme” won the first Grammy for Best Rock Instrumental Performance.

In fact, the album wasn’t a hit as well…”Back To The Egg” didn’t perform like the band’s previous work – music had changed and the songs seemed out of touch with the times…it is, however, another brilliant album by the group.

Here is an in depth look at the “Back To The Egg” album, the last from Wings.

https://johnrieber.com/2015/09/30/paul-mccartneys-cracked-back-to-the-egg-the-all-star-rockestra-band-a-musical-farewell-to-wings/

Wings lasted about the same amount of time as The Beatles did, and they had massive hits like these:

Read all about the chaotic events that led to this masterpiece here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/05/01/band-on-the-run-paul-mccartneys-triumph-over-adversity-classic-chaos-creation/

Wings were a huge band throughout the 70’s, including the classic “Venus And Mar” – see the music videos here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/06/07/venus-and-mars-paul-mccarneys-classic-rock-show-an-almost-lennon-mccartney-reunion/

The second Wings album is one of my favorites, the great “Red Rose Speedway”…see some great music videos here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/08/21/paul-mccartneys-brilliant-ram-2-wings-soar-with-red-rose-speedway/

Of course, the band had a rough start – the first Wings album was a critical and commercial disaster!

You can see videos from this first Wings album, and read some great trivia as well here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/02/13/paul-mccartneys-wild-life-the-disastrous-debut-of-wings-mccartneys-plea-to-john-lennon/

As I said, Wings performed “Coming Up” at the concert, but it was actually Paul’s next single from his solo album:

“McCartney II” was very experimental, and has grown in stature in time – it is another one of his brilliant albums – see the music videos here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/11/28/mccartney-ii-paul-mccartneys-experimental-masterpiece-the-secret-stories-of-mccartney-ii/

Let me know if you own the “Concert For Kampuchea!”

Are You A Fan Of Percy Thrillington?

The odds are you own a LOT of his music…take a look and this and let me know…

Check Out Paul McCartney’s Musical Catalog!

I love this wallpaper, which shows the incredible catalog of music from Paul McCartney – but here is one you may never have heard of – because Paul WAS Percy Thrillington!

Behold The Orchestral Majesty Of “Thrillington!”

This is one of Paul McCartney’s most obscure albums, but it’s an amazing achievement! First, meet the creator of the album:

Meet Record Producer Percy “Thrills” Thrillington!

Percy Thrillington was a name that Paul McCartney gave himself in order to do something very experimental – he wanted to do an orchestral version of his latest album “RAM!”

Here’s how it all happened: as fans know, “RAM” was the only album credited to Paul and Linda McCartney. Paul was in the midst of his huge post-Beatles battle, and he and Linda headed to their farm to record this brilliant album.

According to wikipedia, “Arranger Richard Hewson was asked to arrange the orchestration before Ram had yet been released and it was recorded in June 1971 – with McCartney as producer – and with an intended release shortly thereafter. Paul and Linda’s decision to form Wings resulted in the album being shelved until 1977.”

The ad for that 1977 release made it clear it was a musical reworking of McCartney’s “RAM”, but Paul’s name is not on the credits. It’s a fun, experimental album – something Macca was known for all throughout his career…let’s take a listen to his unique musical homage to “RAM!”

In preparation for the release of Thrillington, McCartney invented the fictitious socialite Percy Thrillington, and even took out ads in various UK music papers announcing Thrillington’s so-called comings and goings to generate curiosity and interest.

Here is a look at the back of the album, with some fun information to share – but what about the album itself!

It all begins with he band warming up, bits of music and chatter, before you hear the band start in, with a chorus also involved – here is an audio only version of “Too Many People”:

Next up is a jazzy big band sound, which actually gives a very expansive vibe to the original song “Three Legs”:

Here’s a 50’s “doo wop” version of “Dear Boy” – as you can see, each song is given a unique twist:

Here is an audio-only version of “Uncle Albert / Albert Halsey” – this song is one of “RAM’s” many masterpieces, and it’s great to hear Paul playing with in this this unique way:

The rest of the album continues this experimental take on “RAM”…and for years, this was never acknowledged as being done by Paul!

Released in April 1977, McCartney’s name was mentioned only in the main liner notes where he is described as a friend of Percy. Thrillington went mostly unnoticed upon its release although it was mentioned in the “Random Notes” page of Rolling Stone magazine. Here are some press notes released by McCartney:

McCartney was never asked about his role on the album until he finally admitted it to journalist Peter Palmiere at a Los Angeles press conference in 1989, during the second leg of his world tour at the time. McCartney told Palmiere:

“What a great question to end the conference. The world needs to know! But seriously it was me and Linda – and we kept it a secret for a long time but now the world knows – you blew it!”

The full story of the “Thrillington” album was told in music journalist Ian Peel’s book “The Unknown Paul McCartney” from 2002.

Peel tracked down various musicians who brought McCartney’s vision to life – including Richard Hewson, Herbie Flowers and The Mike Sammes Singers – as well as those that were responsible in creating its mythology.

Of course, one reason the album is so much fun is that it’s an orchestral version of a masterpiece!

“Ram” On!

“RAM” is the only album ever credited to “Paul and Linda McCartney” – and it is a beautiful album that showcases them both…but there was a reason for that credit…see why here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/20/macca-ram-on-paul-mccartneys-masterpiece-john-lennons-fury-a-beatles-c-c-c-catfight/

As great as “RAM” is, it’s also amazing that so much music was left over – and it ended up here:

That’s right, “Red Rose Speedway” was partially recorded during the “RAM” sessions! See some more great trivia about this terrific Wings album here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/08/21/paul-mccartneys-brilliant-ram-2-wings-soar-with-red-rose-speedway/

Finally, Macca has always had an experimental streak…that’s why he made this incredible album:

Yes, “Twin Freaks” is a McCartney album as well…see some incredible videos for this unique collaboration here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/20/twin-freaks-the-fireman-paul-mccartneys-neglected-solo-music-masterpieces/

Of course, Paul also knew how to knock out a straightforward classic rocker – like the best James Bond theme song of all time!

“Live And Let Die” is the greatest Bond theme ever…here are some of the other good ones – and the awful ones too – can you hear me, Madonna?

https://johnrieber.com/2013/11/05/rock-on-007-the-best-and-worst-james-bond-theme-songs/

Let me know what you think of “Thrillington!”

“Now I understand what you have to do: Put your political message across with a little honey.”

With those words, John Lennon created a holiday song with a powerful message of peace. Time to celebrate his iconic Christmas single!

“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” was released in 1971 as a single by John and Yoko, along with their Plastic Ono Band – and great harmonies by the Harlem Community Choir. The lyrics are set to the traditional English ballad “Skewball”.

“Imagine” A Powerful Anti-War Message!

Here’s how it all came together. After the success of his song “Imagine”, Jennon said:

“Now I understand what you have to do: Put your political message across with a little honey”.

At the time, John and Yoko were heavily involved in the anti-war movement in the US. He decided a holiday message was necessary to keep the momentum going.

First, let’s take a listen to the song:

“And so this is Christmas
For weak and for strong
For rich and the poor ones
The world is so wrong
And so happy Christmas
For black and for white
For yellow and red ones
Let’s stop all the fight
A very Merry Christmas
And a happy new year
Let’s hope it’s a good one
Without any fear…”

Here is a YouTube video of the song:

Thanks to “TheFabFour14” on YouTube for sharing this, you can see the official Facebook page for news, updates, and exclusives on all things Beatles…

The backing chorus is sung by The Harlem Community Choir – a group of thirty children between four and twelve years of age – they ere called to the studio on October 31 to record backing vocals.

The song was released on December 1, 1971.

As wikipedia points out:

“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” was the culmination of more than two years of peace activism undertaken by John Lennon and Yoko Ono that began with the bed-ins they convened in March and May 1969, the first of which took place during their honeymoon.”

John and Yoko Against The Vietnam War!

John and Yoko had begun an international multimedia campaign in 1969 that primarily consisted of renting billboard space in 12 major cities around the world for the display of black-and-white posters that declared:

“WAR IS OVER! If You Want It – Happy Christmas from John & Yoko”

The couple was famous for their “bed-in for peace” in Toronto, where they courted press for a month to sell their “anti-war” message to the public.

While there, they recorded “Give Peace A Chance” – you can see Comedian Tommy Smothers on guitar – well, Tommy told me a great story about recording with John Lennon – see the whole story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/05/18/john-lennon-beds-tommy-smothers-incredible-give-peace-a-chance-story-the-beatles-get-political/

Lennon’s holiday song is one of my favorites, as is this one as well:

The Eagles recorded one of the most popular of all time, see the whole story about their holiday classic here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/12/02/the-eagles-beautiful-christmas-single-please-come-home-for-christmas-funky-new-year-too/

Bravo to John and Yoko for their holiday classic!

As the holiday season approaches, everyone will eat lots of food and sit down to watch classic holiday movies – and we all have our own favorites! I’ve got a list of the nine best holiday movies, including RARE behind-the-scenes photos from the set of “It’s A Wonderful Life”, and so much more!

First, get into the holiday spirit with Billy Mack’s “Christmas Is All Around”!

Thanks Billy, just what I needed to get into the holiday spirit! If you know this song, then you LOVE “Love Actually” – one of the NINE best holiday movies ever!

“Love Actually”!

“Love Actually” is a series of inter-locking stories that take place during the holiday season: some are funny, and a few are sad – with an all-star cast including Kiera Knightley, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Hugh Grant and Emma Thompson.

So many terrific Actors in the film, and thanks to the great website IMDB, here is some terrific “Love Actually” trivia! Let’s start with this fun one:

The word “actually” is spoken twenty-two times by various characters in the film.

When casting the part of Sarah, Richard Curtis auditioned a great many British girls, but kept saying, “I want someone like Laura Linney…” The casting director eventually snapped and said:

“Oh, for fuck’s sake, get Laura Linney then!”

They brought her in and she of course got the part.

The idea for Mark’s surprise of the band singing “All You Need Is Love” at Peter and Juliet’s wedding came from Jim Henson’s funeral (which Richard Curtis attended) where all the puppeteers brought their Muppets and sung the song.

Colin Firth’s “Avocado Elbow!”

The lake that Lúcia Moniz and Colin Firth are “swimming” in was actually only eighteen inches deep and they had to kneel down and pretend to be in deeper water. It was also over-run by mosquitoes and Colin Firth was badly bitten and his elbow swelled up to the size of an avocado, requiring medical attention.

Billy Bob’s Fear Of Furniture!

Knowing about Billy Bob Thornton’s quite unique fear of antique furniture, Hugh Grant would sometimes flash a piece of antique (which is abundant in England) in front of Thornton just before the cameras rolled, and watch him freak out in amusement.

The airport greeting footage at the beginning and end of the film is real. Richard Curtis had a team of cameramen film at Heathrow airport for a week, and whenever they saw something that would fit in they asked the people involved for permission to use the footage. Alex and I always wondered how excited these people must be to be in the film forever!

Thanks, Billy Mack!

“Christmas Is All Around” is now one of our favorite holiday songs thanks to Bill Nighy. With that tune in our heads, let’s see some of the other great holiday films, beginning with Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, and the spirit of “Saturday Night Live”!

Get “Scrooged” and “Griswolded”!

Our next two great holiday films are screwball comedies with iconic stars!

“Scrooged” (1983) and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (1989) both are infused with SNL attitude – Bill Murray does an updated “Christmas Carol” as miserly TV exec Frank Cross – Murray is full of great lines and classic double takes, but the Actor also reveals his soft spot, in a film that has more of a manic energy than many holiday classics.

Check out the trailer:

Once you are “Scrooged”, you might as well go “Griswold!”

Let’s get right to this holiday hilarity with the Griswold family:

That’s right, welcome back to the Clark Griswold family – Chevy Chase takes his clan on another “Vacation”…yes, it’s just a holiday version of the first movie, so do they deserve a spot on the list? As Clark Griswold would say:

“Bend over and I’ll show you!”

OK, maybe a bit forward for the holiday…let’s go back to a simpler time…

The “White Christmas” (1954) / “Holiday Inn” (1942) Crosby Combo!

This double bill is a single entry in my top nine, because these two iconic holiday films star legendary Actors – and they are basically the same movie! In “Holiday Inn”, Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire are two war buddies who sing lots of classic Irving Berlin tunes, including the Oscar winning “White Christmas”…

The Song Becomes The Film!

“White Christmas” was such a great song that they decided to remake “Holiday Inn” and CALL it “White Christmas”! This time, Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye are two GIs coming home from WWII, who fall in love with singing-and-dancing sisters and help their general with his failing Vermont inn. Again, almost the same film, but both of classic Hollywood holiday entertainment! A great double bill!

“Bad Santa”!

This ain’t your father’s holiday movie, which is why is MUST be on a top nine list! How can you NOT love a film with the classic line:

“Fuck me, Santa, Fuck Me!”

So says Lauren Graham in a movie that wears its dark heart on its sleeve…forget the sequel if you want, but this original caustic comedy is one of the best! Here is the trailer:

It’s the perfect movie to watch after all of your horrendous holiday shopping – fighting crowds, no parking, enormous bills – and it’s virtually impossible to watch without a stiff drink in your hand. But it is hilarious, profane and touching as well!

Here’s another holiday charmer:

Happy Holidays, Del Griffith!

And now, the funniest holiday movie character ever, the legendary Del Griffith!

“Planes, Trains & Automobiles”!

I know, it takes place over Thanksgiving, but it’s a holiday movie through and through, and Del Griffith deserves to be here – as it is one of the most heartwarming holiday movies ever!

It’s the classic story of a guy just trying to get home to his family in times for the holidays. “Here’s an idea. When you tell a story, have a point!” And who can forget Del Griffith pulling his socks off on the plane, waving them around and exclaiming “the dogs are barking!”

And of course, as you can see above:

“those aren’t pillows!”

I rest my case. Just one of the sweetest holiday films ever…see more great trivia here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/11/23/greatest-thanksgiving-movie-ever-planes-trains-automobiles-del-griffith-rules/

I love Del Griffith – and you know who else I love?

Hey, Buddy!

Buddy the Elf of course! Will Ferrell’s best film by a mile – check out the trailer:

Will Ferrell is innocent and perfect as Buddy – the elf who heads to New York City to find his real father – a very unfriendly James Caan. Add Ed Asner as a slightly grumpy Santa PLUS Zooey Deschanel as the “innocent love” interest and you have an instant holiday classic!

Speaking of holiday classics:

Congratulations To Director Bob Clark!

Time to celebrate the seriously under-rated Director Bob Clark, who directed the classic holiday film “A Christmas Story” – literally one of the most quoted holiday movies ever! Need an example?

“You’ll shoot your eye out with that thing!”

It makes me want to have chinese food on Dec. 25th just to honor him. This is arguably the best Christmas movie of all time – the encounter with the frozen tether ball pole is just one reason…

And who can forget Dad’s new lamp – look at this terrific TBS ad for the movie that captures the fun of that scene…

It is a holiday classic, directed by Canadian Bob Clark, an under-appreciated Director…check out the trailer:

So funny, so heartwarming! That said, Bob Clark also directed the little-known classic horror film “Black Christmas”, where a sorority is terrorized by a manic over the holidays. He perfected the killer’s POV shot years before “Halloween” got credit for revitalizing it. The thriller stars Kier Dullea (2001) and Margo Kidder (Superman)…dark, dark, dark, but what a Bob Clark holiday double bill – just make sure to send the kids to bed before you start this second feature!

Added trivia: Clark also created and directed “Porky’s”…talk about an eclectic career – read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/08/08/porkys-peepholes-christmas-horror-fra-gee-lay-director-bob-clarks-enduring-legacy/

And now, the last film – the ninth film being honored on this list – because it’s the “Citizen Kane” of holiday films:

“It’s A Wonderful Life”!

The greatest holiday movie of all! Jimmy Stewart, the Tom Hanks of his generation, beautifully portrays a disillusioned husband and father who sees his life amount to nothing – or so he thinks.

This Frank Capra classic is a dark look at one man’s disappointment with his life – of course all coming to a head on Christmas eve – and the film reveals a ton of universal truths about what we should or should not expect from life – remember this line: “we serve stiff drinks for men who want to get drunk fast!” I mean, this movie gets DARK…

Rare “Bedford Falls” Photos!

LIFE Magazine has revealed 13 rare behind-the-scenes photos from the set of the 1946 Frank Capra classic. The pictures focus on one aspect of the holiday favorite that many probably take for granted: the snowy milieu of Bedford Falls!

So as you can see, they used snow machines to create the beautiful serenity of the town:

Looks like Jimmy Stewart had a few snowballs tossed back in his direction during filming!

I will admit that, in some ways, Pottersville always looked a lot more fun than Bedford Falls – like a mini-Vegas! But no matter what life through at George Bailey, he always had a secret weapon…

That’s right – Zuzu’s pedals!

Send me a note and let me know what you watched this holiday season!

Frankfurters For The Holidays!

I love the internet. It gave me this classic ad, for a holiday Frankfurter dish courtesy of “Mrs. Damon Runyon!”

Note the “Creamed diced carrots in onion cups” that go along with it…and after a fine meal like that on Christmas day, you need a smoke!

Classic Celebrity Holiday Smoking Ads!

As you can see, everything we love is on the internet – like these holiday cigarette ads with celebrities shilling cartons of smokes as a holiday gift!

Can you imagine that today? Still, really funny to see these classic ads pop up – and there are tons of ads showing celebs shilling smokes all year long as well, like this one with John Wayne:

After all that food and smoking, you may need an Alka-Seltzer – don’t worry, Sammy Davis Jr. has you covered:

I love that all of this vintage Hollywood stuff is on the internet – for example, do you want to see pictures of Celebrities playing with their food?

Yes, now you can own a picture of Robert Plant eating an ice cream cone – rather sloppily I might add…check out tons of celebrities playing with their food here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/05/18/hilarious-internet-trend-celebrities-play-with-their-food-sex-bacon-bikinis-elvis-tasty-pics-of-the-stars/

Speaking of celebrities and food, did you know that legendary Actor Humphrey Bogart used to sell chocolates?

How could you NOT buy these treats knowing that Bogie approved of them? See a lot of funny celebrity ads here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/26/hilarious-celebrity-product-endorsements-stallone-humphrey-bogart-wacky-ads-galore/

There you go, more celebrity fun courtesy of the internet!

“Love it or hate it, few songs within the McCartney oeuvre have provoked such strong reactions.”

So what Paul McCartney song is under this microscope?

Paul McCartney’s $$$ Christmas Single!

“Wonderful Christmastime” is the 1979 Christmas song by Paul McCartney. It is one of the more well-known pop holiday songs, a hugely profitable song for Paul, and also one of the more polarizing songs in his catalog…

For fans of Paul McCartney, his music has always been wildly varied in style and tone. For every crunching rocker like “Jet” or “Let Me Roll It”, there was an equally “soft” pop hit like “My Love” and “Silly Love Songs.”

Without a doubt, “Wonderful Christmastime” is a light, cotton-candy confection by McCartney, an upbeat celebration of the holiday season…check out the music video:

The Wings Single That Wasn’t!

Even though Wings released “Back To The Egg” that same year, this isn’t a Wings song.

McCartney recorded the song separately, during the sessions for his next album, the solo “McCartney II.”

Even though Wings were not involved recording the song, they appear in the promotional music video…

Beyond that, Wings performed the song during their UK tour in 1979…this was, of course, the last tour by the group before they disbanded…

Polarizing But Amazingly Popular!

According to wikipedia, Beatles author Robert Rodriguez had this to say about “Wonderful Christmastime”:

“Love it or hate it, few songs within the McCartney oeuvre have provoked such strong reactions.”

Every holiday, fans share the video, and some then dismiss it with disdain or worse…but that said, the song is a holiday perennial, and a ton of bands have recorded the song!

The band Chicago recorded it with Dolly Parton, and Artists as disparate as Kelly Rowland to Jars Of Clay have recorded versions of it…

A “Margaritaville” Take On It!

The song has been “covered” dozens of times over the years…just this year, Jimmy Buffet recorded his take on it – take a listen:

According to wikipedia, “Wonderful Christmastime” has proven to be an amazingly lucrative song for McCartney as well:

“Including royalties from cover versions, it is estimated that McCartney makes $400,000 a year from this song, which puts its cumulative earnings at near $15 million.”

Paul has even had some fun with the song…

McCartney re-recorded the song in 2013 with the “a cappella” group Straight No Chaser for their EP called “Under the Influence: Holiday Edition”.

And don’t forget the quirky “B”-side that Macca included on this single – his quick little “Rudolph” ditty…take a listen:

I am listening to a mix of holiday songs, and guess what shows up along with “Wonderful Christmastime?”

Yes, this traditional folk song from Paul is not only a holiday favorite as well, it’s the biggest selling single of his entire career!

See more about this great song, an outtake from the “London Town” sessions, by clicking on my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/07/25/paul-mccartneys-neglected-masterpiece-london-town-maccas-biggest-single-ever-rock-out-to-the-girls/

Of course, Paul wasn’t the only ex-Beatle to release a holiday song:

John and Yoko released the powerful “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” in 1971 – here is the music video and some great trivia about the recording of the song:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/12/06/happy-xmas-war-is-over-john-lennons-powerful-anti-war-christmas-song/

One of the most unique holiday songs is the gorgeous duet between David Bowie and Bing Crosby:

UNSPECIFIED – JANUARY 01: (AUSTRALIA OUT) Photo of Bing CROSBY and David BOWIE; with Bing Crosby, performing Little Drummer Boy (Photo by GAB Archive/Redferns)

Here is my story about the recording of “Little Drummer Boy / Peace On Earth” – and the fact that Bowie didn’t want to sing it! Click here for more:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/12/10/david-bowie-duets-with-bing-crosby-the-secrets-behind-the-greatest-holiday-song-of-all-time/

One other great band also recorded a holiday classic:

Here are some great stories about the recording of this holiday classic:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/12/02/the-eagles-beautiful-christmas-single-please-come-home-for-christmas-funky-new-year-too/

Let me know what you think of Macca’s holiday song!

2017 Is The Year Of “Bacon Man!”

First of all, thanks to Alex Sim-Wise for sending me my own Superhero for my birthday! Yes, thanks to Sim-Wise, in 2017 I will take on a new persona:

Sim-Wise sent me this on my birthday, and I plan to take advantage of any an all super powers I choose to give it to make this year the best ever…I will say that this outfit is much better than the alternative:

Bacon products

Bacon Helmet!

“Bacon Man!”

Um, I don’t think you’ll see me outfitted like that, but I do plan to share the powers of bacon liberally during the upcoming year.

I’m not sure yet EXACTLY what these “Bacon Man” powers will be, but I promise they will include a lot of this:

Bacon Is “Man’s Best Friend!”

Let’s face it: we all love bacon. It’s all over the internet. We all know that bacon is used in so many creative ways: it can turn a burrito in so much more:

I think my “Bacon Man” Superhero will help those “dishes in distress” that need help becoming something GREAT…you know, the way that bacon can turn macaroni-and-cheese into something special like this:

As you can see, bacon makes everything better, like these amazing deep-fried bacon wrapped Oreos! See the recipe here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/04/12/bacon-wrapped-fried-oreos-amazing-recipes-incredible-pictures-bacon-madness/

Remember that “Bacon Man” will only do good, as opposed to this guy, the “Bacon Demon”:

The “Bacon Demon” is known to do more abusive things to bacon, like forcing it to stack up in 1,000 pile increments:

Of course this happened in Japan, where they love to take their food and turn it into something completely different – see how they do it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/12/26/get-stacked-1050-slices-of-bacon-grilled-onion-cheese-the-worlds-tallest-burgers/

Of course, bacon is for more than eating, just ask my friend Sara Underwood:

Sara was willing to don a “bacon bikini” for a shoot once, just one of many celebrities willing to play with their food…see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/05/18/hilarious-internet-trend-celebrities-play-with-their-food-sex-bacon-bikinis-elvis-tasty-pics-of-the-stars/

In Japan, I found that bacon was more than just a bikini – it was also a hairpin!

See all of Tokyo’s “wearable food” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/11/26/wearable-bacon-for-your-head-japans-newest-plastic-wearable-food-fad/

Finally, the fifth best way to utilize bacon is on your phone:

I own a bacon iPhone, which I continue to upgrade – so the bacon gets bigger and bigger along with my phone…see some more unique iPhones food covers here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/01/30/sushi-iphone-bacon-iphone-worlds-most-unique-iphone-covers-tokyos-new-kit-kat-store-tokyos-wacky-shopping/

Thanks so much to Alex Sim-Wise for making me a “Bacon Man!”

Sim-Wise was great to film with, like this shoot with Producer Corrado in Tokyo – she was a Cosplayer in a “Maid Cafe” for us – and here are some more of her more adventurous shoots with G4:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/07/26/alex-sim-wise-her-london-shenanigans-tokyos-greatest-hits/

More to come from “Bacon Man” in 2017!

Breaking Beatles News!

Big news broke today about the rights to some of The Beatles greatest songs! Paul McCartney has gone to court to regain ownership of classic Beatles songs that he wrote, like “Hey Jude” and “Let It Be!”

For those who don’t know, the entire catalog of Beatles songs were sold in the early 80’s, and McCartney lost out in a bidding battle to a close friend.

Just announced however, is this legal salvo: Paul McCartney has filed a lawsuit to get his music, and the music of The Beatles, back!

The Beatles wrote and recorded the greatest music ever, but they didn’t own it afterwards!

Here is the story from The Hollywood Reporter:

“Paul McCartney has filed suit in New York against Sony/ATV and is looking to get a declaratory judgment that states he will soon regain his copyright ownership share to a treasured catalog of songs created as a member of The Beatles.

According to McCartney’s complaint, he transferred rights to songs co-authored by him and John Lennon between 1962 and 1971 to various music publishers.”

Yes, as they note, John and Paul “transferred rights” to various companies, and when they were bought by someone else, they lost the rights to the music they created!

The craziest part of the music business is how ownership of the music publishing is where all the money is…and this is where the story got weird in the 80’s between Paul McCartney and his friend, Michael Jackson..

In the late 70’s and early 80’s, Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson teamed up on several songs, including the mega-hit “Say Say Say”.

Two of those songs were included on the album “Pipes Of Peace” – one of McCartney’s more polarizing efforts…see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/17/pipes-of-peace-paul-mccartneys-rap-ringos-drumming-misunderstood-classic-or-tug-leftovers/

McCartney and Michael Jackson were friends making music, but little did McCartney know that Jackson was negotiating to take ownership of The Beatles musical catalog!

Here is how The Hollywood Reporter explains it.

“It’s well known that in the 1980s, after getting advice from McCartney himself that the big money in music was tied to rights in song compositions, Michael Jackson bought songs including “Yesterday,” “Hey Jude” and “Let It Be.” Jackson then entered a joint venture with Sony/ATV, and last year, his estate sold the late pop singer’s remaining interest to Sony.

The lawsuit notes that McCartney has been serving and recording termination notices for nearly a decade.”

So Jackson bought the rights to The Beatles catalog of songs, and McCartney has been trying to get them back ever since..imagine writing all of the incredible songs that McCartney did over the years, and he doesn’t own them!

This legal battle is just unfolding, and you can find a ton of stories that get into the legal detail, but here is where I read the story originally:

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/paul-mccartney-sues-regain-rights-beatles-songs-965684

If you find the legal battles of the Beatles interesting, here is an amazing story:

This fascinating book looks at the legal battle over the music of The Beatles…read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/19/beatle-eagle-big-battles-best-music-books-pt-1/

The music of The Beatles is, of course, priceless, and a recent documentary looked at their first trip to America:

Director Ron Howard uncovered amazing never-befpre-seen footage of the Fab Four in the first day of “Beatlemania” – see the trailer to this amazing documentary here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/06/the-beatles-first-us-tour-new-movie-the-fab-fours-segregation-battle-ron-howards-fascinating-new-beatles-documentary/

The music of The Beatles has stood the test of time, including this masterpiece now fifty years old:

It’s almost unbelievable to have an album that is virtually flawless – with iconic music that lives on fifty years later…see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/06/the-beatles-revolutionary-revolver-50-years-ago-maccas-greatest-writing-john-lennons-near-death-yellow-submarine/

Good luck to Paul McCarntey as he fights to regain the rights to his amazing music!

007 Reasons To Appreciate A “Bond Girl!”

It’s sounds very “retro” and “demeaning” in a modern context, but the role of a “Bond Girl” in the 007 film series was so much more in the earlier films…the roles were always more than just the “gorgeous girl who stands around looking pretty” – it was a strong, empowered female character – and it was also a career-making opportunity for the Actress cast in the role. These roles gave Actresses a chance to showcase brains as well as beauty!

Lea Seydoux was the most recent “Bond Girl” in “Spectre”, but didn’t really resonate much for me – these latter roles have been woefully underwritten. Perhaps it’s just because in the early days of the Bond series, it was something special to be a Bond girl…and here they all are – on one great graphic:

The Important Cinematic Role Of A “Bond Girl”!

While the sexual chemistry between James Bond and his female co-stars was blatant and obvious in the series, these roles also gave the women a chance to be brash, brave and kick some ass of their own as well.

These women all share on thing in common: they all had the chance to put a strong female character into a male, action-fueled cinema franchise!

Here’s how Maxim magazine accurately described them:

“The term “Bond girl” has long been both an honor and a burden — an amalgam of old-school plaything and career-boosting star turn — but let’s face it: the 007 canon would be far less interesting without James Bond’s bevy of babes.”

The more recent Bond films used recognizable stars, which got away from the original concept…

Denise Richards in “The World Is Not Enough” and Halle Berry in “Die Another Day” felt like stunt casting…the original Bond girls felt more organic to the story, with a much stronger and more intelligent role to play, like the first “Bond Girl” ever:

Meet Ursula “Undress!”

The first-ever Bond Girl stepped out of the ocean and became one of the 60’s most famous stars…Ursula Andress in “Dr. No” became an instant “pinup queen” because of this outfit…and she was a strong, independent woman who could stand up to the world’s greatest secret agent with brains and brawn.

Her nickname was Ursula “Undress”…becasue she had a history in Europe of doing movies without many clothes…click here to see why!

https://johnrieber.com/2016/03/28/ursula-andress-or-undress-007s-first-bond-girl-60s-sex-kitten-frolicked-with-nature/

Next up was one of the most exotic – Diana Bianchi in “From Russia With Love”:

She was sexy and smart – and had plenty of action in the film.

One of the most unique characters was next up: Pussy Galore from “Goldfinger”:

Honor Blackman played Pussy Galore, who first appears as a pilot aboard Goldfinger’s private jet. James Bond, unconscious after being shot with a tranquilizer gun, wakes up to see Pussy standing over him. James asks “Who are you?”, and in one of the most famous introductions of the Bond series, Pussy replies “My Name is Pussy Galore”, to which Bond retorts “I must be dreaming”.

The series had a few other provocative Actresses over the years, like when Lana Wood showed off her star-making power in “Diamonds Are Forever”:

Yes, she was Natalie Wood’s sister! At the time, Lana was far less known than her sister, and the role in “Diamonds” garnered her a ton of attention, including the memorable “toss into the pool” scene. See that clip here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/04/28/007s-sexy-bond-girl-plenty-otoole-lana-wood-natalies-sister-hollywood-sex-kitten-bares-all/

For many of the early Bond films, the female co-star was European. Corinne Clery was one of the sexiest co-stars in the series when she appeared with Roger Moore:

Clery made this appearance AFTER starring in one of the most controversial films of the 70’s, “The Story Of ‘O'” – see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/16/from-o-to-007-corinne-clery-her-torrid-story-of-o-from-notorious-hitchhike-to-bond-girl/

America got into the “Bond girl” game in 1971, when Jill St. John was the first US star to play with Bond:

Here’s great trivia: she also starred in the “Seinfeld” yada yada episode with her husband, Robert Wagner, who was previously Lana Wood’s Brother-In-Law! See it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/05/13/007s-sexy-jill-st-john-americas-first-bond-girl-seinfeld-yada-yada/

As I said, many of the early stars were accomplished Actresses in Europe:

Caroline Munro shared her “Bond girl” status with Barbara Bach – the wife of Ringo Starr, but she also starred in a number of other big hits! See more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/06/19/caroline-munro-from-sex-kitten-to-vincent-price-to-bond-girl-a-maniac-too/

Finally, you can be a Bond girl without even being in an official Bond film!

Barbara Bouchet starred in Woddy Allen’s Bond spoof “Casino Royale” in the late 60’s – this is a forgotten movie that made fun of Bond in a very 60’s way…see that wacky trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/04/29/classic-sex-kitten-james-bonds-sexy-co-star-barbara-bouchet/

My favorite “Bond Girl” will always be Claudine Auger, from “Thunderball”:

Auger stood up to Bond and was an integral part of the film’s plot.

See some of her greatest performances here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/12/18/sexiest-bond-girl-ever-sex-kitten-claudine-auger-james-bond-and-giallo-horror/

That’s a look at some of the more interesting women to take on this part, I left out many Bond girls, let me know your favorite!

It’s National Wine Day 2017!

Yes, it’s a day of celebration, so drink up!

According to our friends from the Internet:

“the purpose of National Drink Wine Day is to spread the love and health benefits of wine. Wine has played an important role in history, religion and relationships. We embrace the positive benefits of wine such as new friends, reduced risk of heart disease and the enhancement of food and life.”

“Wine is sunlight, held together by water.”

How can you argue with that, since wine is a vital part of a healthy life!

Toast, It’s Good For You!

We all know that a glass of red wine every day tastes great, but science has shown that it’s a great way to maintain a healthy heart. Did you know the other benefits of a glass of wine? How about boosting your memory and immune system. Not only that, but wine in moderation might also help with weight loss. I mean, this stuff is gold!

There are so many great things to share about wine, including this story about a robot that can help pick grapes!

Introducing The Robot Winemaker Wall-Ye!

This is Wall-Ye, a vineyard-tending robot being developed in France. Wall-Ye costs $32,000, but it can “move from vine to vine, recognize plant features, capture and record data, memorize each vine, synchronize six cameras and guide its arms to wield tools.” The solar-powered Wall-Ye can prune 600 vines per day and even collect data on soil and fruit. It even has an anti-theft device that causes the hard drive to self-destruct if the GPS detects it’s been removed from the vineyard.

Check out the story!

Toast To Good Health And Eternal Life!

We all know how good wine taste, but thanks to Food and Wine magazine, here are the eight great reasons you need to be drinking an f’in Merlot right now:

The Benefit: Promotes Longevity

The Evidence: Wine drinkers have a 34 percent lower mortality rate than beer or spirits drinkers. Source: a Finnish study of 2,468 men over a 29-year period, published in the Journals of Gerontology, 2007.

The Benefit: Reduces Heart-Attack Risk

The Evidence: Moderate drinkers suffering from high blood pressure are 30 percent less likely to have a heart attack than nondrinkers. Source: a 16-year Harvard School of Public Health study of 11,711 men, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, 2007.

The Benefit: Lowers Risk of Heart Disease

The Evidence: Red-wine tannins contain procyanidins, which protect against heart disease. Wines from Sardinia and southwest France have more procyanidins than other wines. Source: a study at Queen Mary University in London, published in Nature, 2006.

The Benefit: Reduces Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

The Evidence: Moderate drinkers have 30 percent less risk than nondrinkers of developing type 2 diabetes. Source: research on 369,862 individuals studied over an average of 12 years each, at Amsterdam’s VU University Medical Center, published in Diabetes Care, 2005.

The Benefit: Lowers Risk of Stroke

The Evidence: The possibility of suffering a blood clot–related stroke drops by about 50 percent in people who consume moderate amounts of alcohol. Source: a Columbia University study of 3,176 individuals over an eight-year period, published in Stroke, 2006.

The Benefit: Cuts Risk of Cataracts

The Evidence: Moderate drinkers are 32 percent less likely to get cataracts than nondrinkers; those who consume wine are 43 percent less likely to develop cataracts than those drinking mainly beer. Source: a study of 1,379 individuals in Iceland, published in Nature, 2003.

The Benefit: Cuts Risk of Colon Cancer

The Evidence: Moderate consumption of wine (especially red) cuts the risk of colon cancer by 45 percent. Source: a Stony Brook University study of 2,291 individuals over a four-year period, published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, 2005.

The Benefit: Slows Brain Decline

The Evidence: Brain function declines at a markedly faster rate in nondrinkers than in moderate drinkers. Source: a Columbia University study of 1,416 people, published in Neuroepidemiology, 2006.

All of these great health benefits remind me of this classic wine-related movie exchange:

Jack: “If they want to drink Merlot, we’re drinking Merlot.”
Miles: “No, if anyone orders Merlot, I’m leaving. I am NOT drinking any fucking Merlot!”

One of the greatest movie lines of all time, and it’s related to wine!

Time to toast a couple of GREAT wine movies!

Sideways

This classic film celebrates wine, friendship, love, disappointment, betrayal…sounds like it celebrates life! Here is the trailer for this modern masterpiece:

Paul Giamatti is Miles, a failed writer living a meager existence in San Diego as an English teacher. Thomas Haden Church is Jack, a fading television actor. The two embark on a road trip through California’s wine country., where they meet Sandra Oh and Virginia Madsen – two strong women who ultimately uncover Jack’s real story, and everyone’s life changes forever…

In one memorable scene in the film, Miles talks with great passion about Pinot Noir. After the release of this movie, sales of Pinot Noir wines rose by more than 20 percent. And of course, the classic scene where Miles screams about Merlot, caused Merlot sales to plummet. Once again, the classic line:

Jack: “If they want to drink Merlot, we’re drinking Merlot.”
Miles: “No, if anyone orders Merlot, I’m leaving. I am NOT drinking any fucking Merlot!”

Here is another film about wine – this one telling the true story of one of the greatest upsets in wine history!

Bottle Shock

Alan Rickman, Chris Pine, Eliza Dushku and Bill Pullman star in this look at the legendary Paris wine tasting of 1976, which changed Napa valley forever…here’s the trailer:

Here is a great quote from the film, which captures the passion of growing grapes and making wine:

“You have to have it in your blood, you have to grow up with the soil underneath your nails, the smell of the grapes in the air that you breathe. The cultivation of the vine was an art form. The refinement of the vine is a religion that requires pain and desire and sacrifice.”

Yes, indeed.

If you like this story, check out the great book at tells the story as well…and of course, check out the movie with a big glass of wine in your hand!

I leave you with Daryl Hall and John Oates and their tribute to wine:

Daryl Hall & John Oates – Intravino!

Wine is so good for you that Hall & Oates once wrote a song about it, and here it is!

Wine is also funny. If you don’t believe me, ask Monty Python, who offered up this wine review:

“It’s a fine regurgitator!”

See some of the Python’s best wine reviews here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/03/12/hilarious-wine-descriptions-monty-python-wine-reviews-wine-wine/

Don’t forget: celebrate this holiday with a nice glass of vino!

I’m An Award Winner!

I have seen this “Mystery Blogger Award” before, but guess what? This time it was bestowed upon me!

Thank you very much to Lloyd Marken for the Nomination!

Here is a link to his website:

https://lloydmarken.wordpress.com

After Lloyd was nice enough to tag me, I read through the material and am jumping all in – so here goes!

The “Mystery Blogger Award” was created by the wonderful Okoto Enigma, who I’m sure we can all agree can describe the award better in her own words, which she does here:

https://okotoenigma.wordpress.com/my-greatest-creation-yet/

Briefly,

“The “Mystery Blogger Award” is an award for amazing bloggers with ingenious posts. Their blog not only captivates; it inspires and motivates. They are one of the best out there, and they deserve every recognition they get. This award is also for bloggers who find fun and inspiration in blogging; and they do it with so much love and passion”.

For those new to following me, here are 3 things about myself:

My wife, Alex Duda, encouraged to start this blog five years ago as a creative outlet…I work in the entertainment industry, and it has proven to be a fun way to share some adventures with friends and family…

Tokyo Nightlife!

One place I have posted about many times is Japan – whether its to share fun stuff like strange Kit Kat flavors:

Yes, like “Creamed Corn Kit Kats”, which you can see more of here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/05/shrimp-flavored-kit-kats-baked-potato-too-the-wildest-kit-kat-flavors-ever-plus-canned-pancake-soda/

Or when I told the story about eating “sushi for breakfast” with my wife and son at Tokyo’s famous Tsujiki fish market:

I have been lucky enough to travel to Tokyo several times…here is more of an in depth look at my trip during the summer of 2016:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/07/04/the-magic-of-tokyo-2016-eel-waiting-rooms-golden-gai-drinking-cat-ads/

I love to travel, and Tokyo’s an incredible adventure…but so are many other cities – like Barcelona:

This amazing city offered unique architecture AND amazing food!

You can see our great Barcelona “tapas” adventure here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/03/bite-down-on-the-worlds-best-food-paris-napa-barcelona-provence-chicago-five-incredible-bites/

People have also noted that I am prone to share lots of pictures of this:

Bacon!

Yes, I love to share stories about bacon because bacon is funny, and “you never cut funny.” Here is a story about the health benefits of bacon – so how can your refuse now?

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/10/bacon-controversy-rasher-shortage-top-ten-benefits-of-bacon-seaweed-bacon-2/

I also share lots of burger pictures, like this one from Taylor’s Refresher in Napa Valley:

I recently posted some of the wildest burgers from around the world, including one that is SO HOT that you have to sign a release before you eat it! Check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/12/30/alka-seltzer-burgers-for-the-holidays-napa-burgers-xxx-burgers-haggis-sliders-heartburn-holiday-meals-to-wrap-2016/

I also post lots of stories about movies – movies of all kinds: the greatest films ever made, and some that aren’t:

Yes, there is a movie called “The Sinful Dwarf”, and yes, I OWN IT.

If you’ve never heard of Times Square’s notorious “grindhouse” era, it was a time for wild wild moviemaking like this – and moviegoing as well:

Here is a primer of this crazy era in movie history:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/23/a-42nd-street-grindhouse-tour-of-new-york-seven-sexploitation-classics-that-turned-times-square-down-and-dirty/

OK, so according to this “mystery blogger award” post, I must nominate 15-20 other bloggers…

Here are a few that I read religiously:

https://catsandtrailsandgardentales.com

https://beetleypete.wordpress.com

https://letsgotothemovies7.com

https://cindybruchman.com

https://sevendoorsofcinema.com

Also, you go to my main page and you will see links to many blogs I follow on the right side of the front page…they are all worth nominating!

Let me know what kind of posts you like, and let me know other bloggers I should follow as well!

Remember These People?

In 1996, this cast blew the doors of British cinema with a raucous, profane, and exhilarating movie experience, which included THIS:

Welcome To The “Worst” Toilet In Scotland!

Yes, you remember this scene: along with babies crawling on the ceiling, “Spud” soiling his girlfriend’s family sheets, and so much more….and guess what?

The Boys Are Back In Town!

That’s right! After twenty years apart, the gang is back in a “must see” movie:

“T2” Is Here! The Long-Awaited Sequel To A Masterpiece Has Arrived!

Here is how “Trainspotting 2” is described:

“First there was an opportunity……then there was a betrayal. Twenty years have gone by. Much has changed but just as much remains the same.”

Check out the trailer:

The entire cast is back – here is the plot:

“Mark Renton (Ewan McGregor) returns to the only place he can ever call home. They are waiting for him: Spud (Ewen Bremner), Sick Boy (Jonny Lee Miller), and Begbie (Robert Carlyle). Other old friends are waiting too: sorrow, loss, joy, vengeance, hatred, friendship, love, longing, fear, regret, diamorphine, self-destruction and mortal danger, they are all lined up to welcome him, ready to join the dance.”

I can’t wait to see this film, which has already opened in the UK to sterling reviews…here is something I shared with my friends on the terrific website “ActionAGoGo” – and it all begins with the opening monologue from the original film:

“Choose your future. Choose life…”

With those words, the original Trainspotting sent viewers off on an adrenelin-fuelled adventure through the streets of Edinburgh, Scotland.

As Director Danny Bowle said, Trainspotting was designed to be:

“most energetic film you’ve ever seen – about something that ultimately ends up in purgatory or worse.”

Here are three reasons that “Trainspotting” is a great action film.

First, the opening credits – Director Boyle says the Beastie Boys music video “Sabotage” inspired him to start the movie with a foot chase through the streets.

The second reason? This guy!

Meet Begbie, the leader of this groups of misfits who can’t hanve a drink in a bar without starting an action-filled melee. As he says in the film about puling of a robbery with a fake gun:

“Armed robbery. With a replica. I mean, how the f*$^% can it be armed robbery with a f&#*ing replica?”

The third reason that Trainspotting is a great action film takes place here:

Yes, it’s the filthiest toilet in Scotland. When Ewan MacGregor loses his drugs in there, he has only one option:

Now THAT’S action! Trainspotting is a classic film, and these three reasons are just the tio of the iceberg…check out the original trailer and see this before the sequel comes out!