1. “Twilight Zone: The Movie (1983)” movie review

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    “Twilight Zone: The Movie” was a theatrical adaptation of the 1960's show of the same name, designed to be an anthology with four big directors helming each segment, complete with an all star cast. Steven Spielberg (“Jaws”), John Landis (“The Blues Brothers”), George Miller (“Mad Max”) and Joe Dante (“The Howling") were the star directors and the project was intended to be a big deal. Unfortunately, a real life tragedy occurred on the set when star Vic Morrow and two children were killed in a freak helicopter accident. That is all anyone remembers this movie for and probably for good reason. The deaths were due to gross negligence and general stupidity. The casualties loom over the project, ensuring that they are not far from your mind during the viewing of the film.
  2. “Dark Shadows (2012)” movie review.

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    Tim Burton was another great filmmaker who has lost sight of what made him good in the first place. Oh sure, his trademarks are still present, but they don't seem to mean anything anymore. His earlier- and best- efforts were noted for their high octane Gothic imagery, their quirky, morbid sense of humor and their ability to have heart amidst its visual style. The movies were about people who felt (or were) isolated from the rest of the world. They had substance, damn it! But eventually Burton's efforts started being less eccentric and more mainstream. While the visual style was still there, the humor became stale and the loner protagonist was reduced to a cog in a big machine. "Dark Shadows" is pretty much the embodiment of a true Tim Burton film these days. His touches are here, but they're underutilized.