Remembering Martin Landau

A Magical Career

By Chris Sabga

Martin Landau has always been one of my all-time favorite actors. His death at the age of 89 – on the same day as legendary horror director George A. Romero – was a 1-2 sucker punch.

But what a life Landau lived!

North By Northwest

After several television roles, Martin Landau's first appearance on the silver screen – as the menacing Leonard in Alfred Hitchcock's "North by Northwest" – was quite possibly the greatest film debut anyone could ask for.

He took a big risk in the way he portrayed Leonard in the 1959 film: "I chose to play [him] as a homosexual – very subtly," Landau admitted in an interview – a taboo no-no for that time period.

Landau became an instant star.

Spock You

For the next two decades, he crisscrossed between film and TV appearances. His most notable work on the small screen was in "Mission: Impossible" and "Space: 1999." He turned down the role of Spock in "Star Trek." That iconic character, of course, went to Leonard Nimoy instead. Ironically, Nimoy ended up essentially replacing Landau on "Mission: Impossible."

The Ups and Downs of a Great Career

Among Landau's many film roles during this period, he played opposite Sidney Poitier in the unnecessary, contradictory, overrated mess of a sequel "They Call Me Mister Tibbs!" The first film featuring the groundbreaking Virgil Tibbs character, "In the Heat of the Night," remains an essential classic. "They Call Me Mister Tibbs" doesn't come close to its predecessor's greatness, but Landau was good in it.

In 1982, Landau appeared along with Jack Palance and Donald Pleasence in "Alone in the Dark" (not to be confused with the much-maligned version directed by Uwe Ball and starring Christian Slater and Tara Reid). The horror thriller is about a pair of mental patients (Landau and Palance) who break out of a hospital in order to torment their psychiatrist (Pleasence). I have to admit: I've never seen it – but I've always wanted to. Unfortunately, the DVD has been out of print for years and there's seemingly no Blu-ray or digital release on the horizon. While it surely can't match the expectations I've built up for it in my mind, it still sounds like nutty fun. There is (or was) a low-quality version on YouTube, but I can't bring myself to watch it that way. Eventually, I will get my hands on this holy grail!

After decades in Hollywood, Landau's greatest fame would arguably occur in the 1990s and beyond.

Karloff Does Not Deserve to Smell My Shit!

Bela Lugosi never uttered those words about Boris Karloff, but Martin Landau famously did when he played Lugosi in 1994's "Ed Wood." Tim Burton and Johnny Depp – the director and star of "Ed Wood," respectively – are generally "mood" people for me. In other words, I have to be in the mood for them – and I'm usually not. Yet, "Ed Wood" remains one of my favorite films ever – and Martin Landau is the main reason why. As the long-suffering and loyal Lugosi, his incredible performance is undeniably the heart and soul of the film. Landau was richly recognized for his work in "Wood" by winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in what has to be one of the most competitive categories I've ever seen: Samuel L. Jackson for "Pulp Fiction" and Gary Sinise for "Forrest Gump" were also nominated the same year. (He also nominated before in the same category two years in a row – but didn't win – for 1988's "Tucker: The Man and His Dream" and 1989's "Crimes and Misdemeanors.")

Sal Bandini – Wanna Wrestle!!!

What in the living holy hell was the great Martin Landau doing in a professional wrestling vanity project like 2000's "Ready to Rumble"? I still don't know! He did work with wrestler George "The Animal" Steele a few years earlier in "Ed Wood," so perhaps that had something to do with it? But whatever Landau's reasons were, like the old pro he was, he made the most of it.

This is what I wrote about his appearance and performance at the time (for IGN.com):

"As awful as some of the material is, there is one bright spot – the character of Sal (Martin Landau). His hilarious performance as King's 105-year-old trainer saves the movie from complete disaster. It is a shame that he isn't used more often, but he definitely steals the scenes he's in. He must be a huge wrestling fan. Either that or he needs money desperately. How else can anyone explain why such a distinguished and celebrated actor would agree to partake in such a dud?"

I've warmed up to "Ready to Rumble" in the years since. No, it's still not a good movie – or anything close to resembling one. Woefully inaccurate and mind-numbing in its dumbness, it displays an astounding lack of respect for wrestling – which makes no sense to me, because what other audience was this intended to attract? But Martin Landau – good old Martin Landau – is an absolute treat to watch.

The Magic of the Movies

At best, 2001's "The Majestic" was stylish but wildly uneven. At worst, it was artificial and sappy. Despite that, it contains one of my favorite performances and speeches ever. Of course, both came courtesy of the wonderful Martin Landau.

"Any man, woman, child could buy their ticket, walk right in. Here they'd be, here we'd be. 'Yes sir, yes ma'am. Enjoy the show.' And in they'd come entering a palace, like in a dream, like in heaven. Maybe you had worries and problems out there, but once you came through those doors, they didn't matter anymore. And you know why? Chaplin, that's why. And Keaton and Lloyd. Garbo, Gable, and Lombard, and Jimmy Stewart and Jimmy Cagney. Fred and Ginger. They were gods. And they lived up there. That was Olympus. Would you remember if I told you how lucky we felt just to be here? To have the privilege of watching them. I mean, this television thing. Why would you want to stay at home and watch a little box? Because it's convenient? Because you don't have to get dressed up, because you could just sit there? I mean, how can you call that entertainment, alone in your living room? Where's the other people? Where's the audience? Where's the magic? I'll tell you, in a place like this, the magic is all around you. The trick is to see it."

It's such a beautiful mission statement and rallying cry for why we all love going to the movies so much. Despite the rude patrons, bright cell phones, and numerous other drawbacks, there's still nothing else quite like the theatrical experience.

When Martin Landau was up on that screen, it was magic.  

Coming to America: A Royal Anniversary Celebration

Coming to America Premiered on June 29, 1988 – and Became an Instant Classic

By Chris Sabga

Ready to feel old? "Coming to America" is almost 30. It premiered nearly three decades ago, on June 29, 1988. That makes it 29 years old, to be exact, in 2017.

It was an instant classic.

Everyone knows the story by now (and if you don't, see the movie ASAP!): Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy) is tired of living a lavish lifestyle of resplendent royalty – which includes being bathed by beautiful women and having his shoes tied for him. "I tied my own shoes once!" the domineering King Jaffe Joffer (the great James Earl Jones) confessed to his son. "It is an overrated experience." (I agree!)

But Akeem's problems go beyond baths and shoelaces.

Being the prince of Zumunda, Africa, also means submitting to an arranged marriage. "I want the woman to love me for who I am," Akeem insists, "not because of what I am." Therefore, the Prince of Zamunda declares that he's coming to America to find his bride. "But where," his servant and friend Semmi (Arsenio Hall) wonders, "can one find a woman with grace, elegance, taste, and culture? A woman suitable for a king." The answer, of course, is Queens.

Queens, New York, that is.

The prince immediately finds a job in America – as a janitor. He works at a fast food restaurant called McDowell's – not to be confused with McDonald's, you see. "Look, me and the McDonald's people got this little misunderstanding," his new boss, Cleo McDowell (John Amos, "Good Times"), explains. "See, they're McDonald's – I'm McDowell's. They got the Golden Arches, mine is the Golden Arcs. They got the Big Mac, I got the Big Mick. We both got two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions, but their buns have sesame seeds. My buns have no seeds." McDowell's, however, has something McDonald's never will: Lisa (Shari Headley), the boss's beautiful daughter.

As good as Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall are in this movie, especially together, James Earl Jones steals every scene as the bombastic King Jaffe Joffer. Madge Sinclair, who portrays Queen Aoleon, is every bit as superb – especially when she stands up to her overbearing but loving husband: "Put a sock in it, Jaffe," she chastises, "the boy is in love." 

Indeed, it's love at first sight for Akeem.

And it was love at first sight for audiences when "Coming to America" premiered in 1988 – and in all the decades since. Not one single person I know dislikes the movie. It's remembered with such great warmth, fondness, and affection. The mere mention of it never fails to elicit a smile from a person's face. Even my own immediate family unanimously loves the film, and we're all very different people in every other way. That's because there's something for everyone in "Coming to America." The performances, characters, writing, and dialogue are all exceptional – and exceptionally hilarious. 

In the 1980s, Eddie Murphy was known primarily for his wisecracking, blue collar, off-color roles in "Trading Places," "Beverly Hills Cop," and "48 Hrs." While those remain cherished classics, "Coming to America" stands out for one reason: its inherent sweetness. Yes, the movie certainly earns its "R" rating with several raunchy jokes and situations, but it's ultimately nice and innocent in a way the others aren't. That is the secret of its success.

Fun Facts:

• Diehard fans of "Coming to America" already know that both Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall portray multiple characters. Their makeup by Rick Baker was nominated for an Oscar that year. Beetlejuice won, which I suppose is understandable, but my heart is with "Coming to America."
• "Coming to America" was Cuba Gooding Jr.'s first film. He plays the boy in the barbershop.
• Look for Samuel L. Jackson in a small role as the robber who holds-up McDowell's.
• Future "E.R." standout Eric LaSalle shows up as Lisa's boyfriend.
• Comedian and future "Family Feud" host Louie Anderson is behind the McDowell's counter as the fry cook.
• Frankie Faison chomps cigars and chews scenery as Murphy and Hall's landlord/slumlord.
• Akeem's fictional homeland of Zamunda in Africa was named after Bob Zmuda, who is best known for his association with Andy Kaufman.
• "Coming to America" contains a great reference to "Star Wars" (Episode IV): King Jaffe Joffer commands: "Do not alert him to my presence. I will deal with him myself." In "Star Wars," Darth Vader orders: "No. Leave them to me. I will deal with them myself." James Earl Jones portrayed both characters. He played Jaffe and provided the voice of Darth Vader.
• There is also a reference in "Coming to America" to Eddie Murphy's earlier film "Trading Places": Ralph Bellamy and Don Ameche reprise their roles as Randolph and Mortimer – only this time, they're homeless and penniless. Akeem helps them out by handing them a sizable chunk of cash. Would Murphy's Billy Ray Valentine from "Trading Places" have been so generous? Probably not.

Small Screen: Why You Should Be Watching The Carmichael Show

Influenced by Norman Lear and Unafraid to Tackle Bill Cosby, Jerrod Carmichael is Creating Must-See-TV

By Chris Sabga

In the 1970s, screenwriting and producing legend Norman Lear ruled the small screen – television – with groundbreaking programming that explored politics, religion, and life from all angles. Whether it was Archie and Meathead going back-and-forth about hot topics on "All in the Family" or a middle-aged woman having an abortion on "Maude," Lear's shows captured the gritty reality of America the way few others ever had – or ever have since. 

However, instead of creating a trend that lasted through the '80s and beyond, Lear's blunt but nuanced vision of the world disappeared in favor of more wholesome and "family-friendly" shows like "The Cosby Show" (which I will get back to shortly), "Full House" and everything on ABC's "TGIF" block. While I certainly grew up loving those as well, there was nothing that could compare to Archie Bunker or "The Jeffersons."

In 2016, I read an article about a show I'd barely heard of, NBC's "The Carmichael Show," tackling a show we've all seen, "The Cosby Show." Everyone knows the shocking and sordid story of Cosby's downfall by now: Comedian Hannibal Buress made a "joke" about Cosby's holier-than-thou attitude toward the young African-American community, with the "punchline" being that Cosby is a rapist.

"Pull your pants up black people! I was on TV in the '80s," Buress mocked, imitating Cosby. "Yeah, but you rape women, Bill Cosby, so turn the crazy down a couple notches."

From there, endless numbers of women came forward stating they'd been drugged and raped by the '80s sitcom "role model." Cosby went from being lauded a hero who could do no wrong – his sterling influence tenuously linked by "The New York Times" to the rise of America's first black President, Barack Obama – to an internationally reviled pariah who made the whole world feel disgusted and ashamed for ever liking him in the first place.

"The Carmichael Show" was going to go there. The Season 2 episode – titled "Fallen Heroes" – covered Bill Cosby from every angle, including the uncomfortable ones. In one conversation, the characters debated the guilt they felt for being fans of "The Cosby Show" back in the '80s and the unspoken lament that his actions had tainted their childhood memories. How do you reconcile the same man who brought such joy to so many people with the information we have now? Is it okay, the Carmichaels questioned, to still be entertained by a brilliant comedian who is so repulsive in his personal life? Every member of the family had their own wildly differing – and sometimes taboo – take on Bill Cosby and "The Cosby Show."

Norman Lear would have been proud. (Actually, he is!) The Cosby episode – and "The Carmichael Show" in general – is exactly the kind of television Lear would have been writing and producing in the 1970s. It stars comedian and actor Jerrod Carmichael – playing a character of the same name – with an incredible cast portraying his family: Loretta Devine and David Alan Grier as his parents, Amber Stevens West as his biracial girlfriend (a topic that comes up more than once during the course of the show), and LilRel Howery and Tiffany Haddish as his brother and ex-sister-in-law.

After reading about the Cosby episode, I knew I had to catch up and binge-watch "The Carmichael Show" from the beginning! "Fallen Heroes" is but one of the many thought-provoking topics "Carmichael" covers. In the first two seasons, the show has memorably debated gentrification ("Gentrifying Bobby"), depression ("The Blues"), gay and transgender issues ("Gender"), and various other trending topics.

Two of the most memorable episodes, for me, both took place in the second season:

In "The Funeral," the stoic but sometimes blustery patriarch of the Carmichael clan, Joe Carmichael, is tasked with planning his father's funeral. Joe's breakdown at the end and admission that his dad had abused him is powerful, heartbreaking, and absolutely gut-wrenching. It's one of the finest moments of David Alan Grier's long and distinguished acting career. (Bonus: Look for "Jeffersons" alum Marla Gibbs as Joe's mom.)

When "President Trump" aired, its episode title was both a jarring shock to the system and apparently ironic – portending an event that seemingly had no chance in hell of ever happening. At the time, Trump was just another candidate – albeit one who was steadfastly gaining momentum. Yet, here we are today: the episode "President Trump" and President Trump himself are now a reality.

Even though Jerrod Carmichael is the star of the show, he isn't afraid to take the unpopular position. Whether it's supporting controversial gentrification neighborhood overhauls or offensively trolling on social media, Carmichael's character is okay looking like "the bad guy." But he remains endearing – just as Archie Bunker always did, despite his blatant bigotry – because the show always sprinkles its tough issues with layers of warmth and tenderness.

No matter how heated the arguments get, "The Carmichael Show's" family dynamic is its biggest strength. The Carmichaels are real and relatable. They have a deep mutual love and respect for each other. That's why I love them back, even when they're making me mad!

The Carmichael Show airs on NBC. You can watch the first two seasons on Netflix.

Hidden Gems: Sci-Fi Movies That Don't Get the Recognition They Deserve

Four Films Worth a Deeper Look

By Caroline Black

I would like to thank Silver Screen Surprises for publishing this article on their site. I've found them to be a great resource for movie reviews, and I would specifically recommend their review of Little Boy for anyone interested.

It's always an amazing feeling when a hidden gem is found. No matter the medium you’re consuming, it's always an awesome feeling. The problem is that finding these hidden gems can be a major chore. It's funny because it seems like the best chance to find them is to randomly stumble upon them (unless someone catalogs them). Of course, there are also those occasions where a movie is well-known but doesn't get the recognition it deserves. We are going to be taking a look at both here, so here are a few films you should check out:

Men in Black II

Here is a movie that is well-known, but only because of the success of the first film. When "Men in Black" was first released, audiences all across the globe witnessed a critically acclaimed masterpiece. However, "Men in Black II" did not receive the same praise upon its release. As fans of the series know, at the end of the first installment Kay lost all of his memories. "Men in Black II" picked up after those events as Jay was flying solo. He simply couldn't find a good partner. However, later on in the movie, it's revealed that Kay is the only man in the world with the information necessary to save the earth. It’s then up to Jay to bring his partner back and restore his lost memories.

Much like the first installment, the reason "Men in Black II" is so good is because of Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith. The way these two actors mesh on screen makes this movie worth the watch by itself. Admittedly so, "Men in Black" had a much better villain than its successor. Yet outside of this, "Men in Black II" did a tremendous job of keeping up to the standards of the first installment. It's tough to label this movie as a hidden gem because the franchise is very popular, but it’s absolutely worth a revisit.

Equilibrium

"Equilibrium" is a movie that combines exhilarating sci-fi action with a rather bland story. If the only aspect of this movie that is being judged is the plot, this movie is not particularly outstanding. Yet there is more to movies than a plot. This movie has a breathtaking presentation that transcends its story. In a futuristic world, every single person is restricted from using emotions. If these rules are resisted, repercussions are delivered. However, one day when a government official (Christian Bale) misses his dose of Prozium (which restricts the mind from using emotions), he realizes that emotions are necessary.

"Equilibrium" seems like a clone of "The Matrix," yet we have to ask whether this is actually the case. Since "The Matrix" was a global phenomenon at its time, many movies took a similar approach. There is no doubt that "Equilibrium" felt like "The Matrix" in places, but that didn't ruin the movie. As a matter of fact, it probably ended up helping the movie. Some critics at the time panned it for being more of the same. What critics need to realize, though, is sometimes "more of the same" isn't always a bad thing.

Battle: Los Angeles

Sometimes people can't sit back and appreciate how entertaining a movie can be. This is exactly the case with "Battle: Los Angeles." If it’s taken for what it is, it will be enjoyed. Much like previous alien movies, "Battle: Los Angeles" tells the story of an alien force invading the planet. As the movie progresses, more and more cities are devastated by the alien invaders. The cast of characters then must somehow find a way to stop an enemy unlike any they have ever encountered. "Battle: Los Angeles" does a good job of telling this old, but good, story.

There weren't many aspects that critics enjoyed about this movie. It has been criticized for its lazy editing, lack of originality and poor writing. However, much like "Equilibrium," sometimes more of the same is not a bad thing. In the producer’s defense, alien movies have been done to death. It's not easy to come up with new concepts about them. On the contrary, they do get paid the big bucks for being professional storytellers. While it may not be the greatest movie ever made, it's still an entertaining movie worth a watch.

Knowing

"Knowing" is one of the most creative sci-fi movies that has ever been made. The claim can be made that this movie is far from perfect, but the idea is absolutely amazing. Many years ago, a time capsule was buried and a cryptic message was left inside. Years later, the time capsule is dug up and the cryptic message falls into the hands of John Koestler (Nicolas Cage). The message was just a bunch of random numbers, but soon it is revealed that the numbers are far from random. The numbers document every single major calamity that will take place over the next several years. During his research, Koestler realizes that three of the dates have not happened yet, with the last date signaling the end of the world.

"Knowing" is great because of its plot. As mentioned earlier, however, that's not the only important aspect of a movie. What this movie also does a terrific job with is the suspense factor, as it will leave you on the edge of your seat. The ending of the movie may rub some people the wrong way, but it steered away from being predictable (without giving too much away).

Do you have any thoughts on the above films? Are there any other sci-fi films that simply don’t get the attention they deserve? Please leave a comment below and tell us what you think!

About the Author: Caroline is a freelance blogger and writer who writes mostly about technology and entertainment topics. She loves sci-fi and how it can make our dreams appear right in front of us. She hopes that you go back and check out all of these hidden gems.

Golden Girls Forever: An Unauthorized Look Behind the Lanai

A Detailed Look Back at Four Friends and a Lifetime of Laughs

By Chris Sabga

When "The Golden Girls" first premiered on television in the September of 1985, it was instantly groundbreaking. Never before had women over 50 been portrayed so warmly and richly. Dorothy (Beatrice Arthur), Rose (Betty White), Blanche (Rue McClanahan), and Sophia (Estelle Getty) were complete and fully dimensional human beings. Nothing was off-limits for these Girls: they grappled with sex, aging, medical problems, gender inequality, political-social-economic issues, and – most hilariously – each other.

30 years later, there is finally a book dedicated to these dazzling dames. My first reaction: What took so long? But "Golden Girls Forever: An Unauthorized Look Behind the Lanai" by Jim Colucci was definitely worth the wait!

From the minute you hold it in your hands, you'll be impressed. So many books today cut corners that it's refreshing to see one that looks and feels like a high-quality publication. With its attractive cover, thick pages, and glossy photos, you'll be proud to display this on your proverbial coffee table.

"Behind the Lanai" doesn't cover every single episode, but it comes close. This is an exhaustive guide to "The Golden Girls" with recaps, interviews, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes from three of the four Girls – Bea Arthur, Betty White, and Rue McClanahan – and an endless array of guest stars and writers. However, If you're expecting nasty gossip or catty feuding, look elsewhere. This is a nice, heartfelt remembrance of one of television's all-time great sitcoms.

Speaking of nice...

__

The show was originally going to be called "Miami Nice."

If you didn't grow up in the 1980s, you might not get the reference. Back then, "Miami Vice" – a hip show about two stylish police officers (played by Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas) – was all the rage. "Miami Nice" was a cute play on that. Thankfully, though, the name was changed along the way. "The Golden Girls" has a much nicer ring to it, don't you think?

George Clooney and Quentin Tarantino (among many others) were guest stars.

Yes, that George Clooney. And yes, definitely that Quentin Tarantino. This was early in George's career, and he was already somewhat of a TV fixture – also appearing on shows like "The Facts of Life" and "Roseanne" around this time. There's an anecdote in the book which indicates just how little demand there was for him back in the '80s. Needless to say, fame and fortune would eventually smile in George's direction.

While Clooney already had some experience under his belt when he stepped onto the lanai, "The Golden Girls" was Quentin Tarantino's very first acting job. I wonder if both of them reminisced about their time on the show when they played unlikely brothers in "From Dusk Til Dawn" a decade later?

There was a gay housekeeper – "Coco" – played by Charles Levin.

It's no secret that the Girls had a gay housekeeper in the pilot – pretty progressive for the '80s. His name was Coco and he was played by Charles Levin. However, as these things go, the show was somewhat retooled after the first episode. Levin was dropped from the cast and more focus was placed on the Girls themselves – a wise decision, in retrospect, because Bea, Betty, Rue, and Estelle are still four of the most brilliant comediennes ever to grace the screen.

Fans of both pro wrestling and hilariously bad movies are familiar with Charles Levin too. He's one of the two spineless executives – along with future Oscar nominee David Paymer – in 1989's "No Holds Barred" who was berated by tobacco-slobbering pro wrestler (and WWE Hall of Famer) Stan Hansen for having "teeny wangers" Look up the clip on YouTube and lament how quickly things went downhill for poor Mr. Levin in only four short years!

Another Golden Girl from the Golden Era of TV almost made a guest appearance.

Lucille Ball, of "I Love Lucy" fame, seemed like a natural for a show like "The Golden Girls." While she obviously wasn't one of the four Girls, she was highly sought after for a guest role. Unfortunately, it never happened. As the book so eloquently points out, Lucy had her time in television history and so too did the Girls.

Estelle Getty could never remember her lines.

There's a hilarious anecdote about someone on the set gently asking Estelle for permission to move a prop that contained her dialogue. Her polite response was, "No, you may not." Estelle came from the stage, where months of preparation was the norm. Therefore, she was always a nervous wreck about remembering so many lines so quickly and relied on notes and other shortcuts. Marlon Brando famously did the same thing, so Estelle Getty is in great company. The iconic character of Sophia Petrillo is proof of that.

Recognize the kitchen?

The same kitchen set was actually used on "It Takes Two," a short-lived 1982-1983 sitcom starring another Golden Girl, Patty Duke, and Richard Crenna (of "Rambo" fame).

Bea Arthur almost left the show during the sixth season.

Remember the episode where Dorothy wanted to remarry Stan and the Girls interviewed Debbie Reynolds about becoming their new roommate? All of that was apparently in case Bea decided not to continue with the show. Thankfully, she stuck around for one more season. There were tabloid rumors about on-set squabbles, but the book offers a different – and much milder – explanation: she wanted to perform in the theater.

__

If you're concerned that I've spoiled all of the good parts, worry not – I've barely scratched the surface. "Golden Girls Forever: An Unauthorized Look Behind the Lanai" is the most detailed and comprehensive history of "The Golden Girls" you'll find anywhere. 

Reviews: My Big Fat Greek Wedding 1 and 2

Two Weddings, Many Greeks, and a Bottle of Windex

By Chris Sabga

My Big Fat Greek Wedding

When "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" came out in the late summer of 2002, it slowly built word-of-mouth, momentum, and goodwill that sustained it all the way through the winter. Audiences of all ages were talking about it – from grandparents to their grandkids and everyone in-between.

The premise: a Greek-American woman finds love with a man outside of her own ethnicity while dealing with her loud, colorful, and all-too-close family. (Outsiders might call them "overbearing.") The happy couple was Toula Portokalos (Nia Vardalos) and Ian Miller (John Corbett), and it was their "Big Fat Greek Wedding." But her boisterous family thought the wedding belonged to them – and they weren't necessarily wrong. Nothing a little Windex couldn't fix!

This Greek clan's wide range of eccentricities – including a father (played by the wonderful Michael Constantine) who thought Windex was the solution to all of life's problems – didn't alienate viewers at all. Instead, it had the opposite effect. People from all walks of life – whether they were Italian, Irish, Spanish, Mexican, Jewish, or Arab – were in complete agreement about the Portokalos family: "They're just like us. Our weddings are the exact same way!" That was the magic of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" and the reason it became such a beloved phenomenon.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2

That was fourteen years ago. Everyone is older and grayer now. Salt and pepper adorn their hairlines. In some cases, new wrinkles line their faces. What the original "Greek Wedding" had going for it was the element of surprise. It could – and did – become a sleeper hit because it was such an unexpected treat. "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2" has no such luxuries. It carries with it the love and heightened expectations people have from years of watching, re-watching, and endlessly quoting the first film.

But how could any sequel ever live up to such a lofty legacy?

It doesn't. It can't.

That's okay, though. There's no need for it to be as good as the first. Expectations can run in the opposite direction too. I couldn't possibly expect "Greek Wedding 2" to match the original. I just wanted to be entertained by this marvelous family once more – and I was. Keep in mind: this isn't "Star Wars" or James Bond," where a new installment is par for the course. There was never necessarily going to be a follow-up to "Greek Wedding." But here we are, almost a decade and a half later. That we have a sequel at all – and it's actually pretty good – is one of life's little delights.

As the recent "Fuller House" and "Girl Meets World" continuations prove, sometimes it's nice to see what your favorite characters are up to a decade or two later. The same is equally true of Toula, Ian, and the rest of their wacky relatives in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2."

Toula and Ian now have a daughter, Paris (Elena Kampouris). If you haven't seen the trailer, you might be mistaken in assuming this big, fat, Greek wedding will be for her. Instead, it's for Toula's parents, Gus and Maria (Michael Constantine and Lainie Kazan). Because of a minor technicality, their marriage 50 years earlier was never made official – the priest that presided over their nuptials never actually graduated from the seminary. I hate when that happens!

Everybody's favorite Greek, John Stamos, joins the cast in a small supporting role. Rita Wilson, who is one of the producers of both films (along with her real-life husband, Tom Hanks), appears on-camera this time as Stamos's wife.

As much fun as this "Wedding" is, there are times when these "big, fat Greeks" exhibit odd characteristics seemingly for the sake of it – and it can be a bit jarring. It sometimes feels like the script and actors are trying too hard and shouting from the rooftops, "We are characters in a comedy!" But that occasional lack of realism is balanced by many more quiet, personal, human moments that are genuinely funny.

This movie isn't going to cure your ailments or change your life – only Windex can do that – but I'm glad it exists.

Note from Silver Screen Lawyer: Windex does not actually have any healing, restorative, or mood-enhancing properties. Please do not spray it anywhere on your person, especially your private parts. Thank you!

The 88th Annual Academy Awards: Results and Reactions

Will "Spotlight" Get the Spotlight or Will the Academy Revere "The Revenant"?

By Chris Sabga

Before the Show

Chris Rock is tonight's host. I am hoping he's hilarious and skewers the hell out of everyone. He was probably the best of the hosts we've seen in the last decade. Let's hope that streak continues tonight.

Am I horrible for wanting him to find some way to offend Sean Penn again? Penn's sour, humorless reaction to Rock's Jude Law joke was hysterical to me. Then again, Jude Law's career did take somewhat of a hit after that.

I'm here with both Silver Screen Sisters and a delicious plate of Chinese food – yum, yum!

The Red Carpet

Robin Roberts looks nice. That's all I have.

The Oscar Ceremony

Full results are listed at the end.

Chris Rock's opening monologue is great. I loved his Rocky and Paul Giamatti jokes. Comparing Rocky to science fiction because white athletes are better than black athletes – brilliant!

Here comes Emily Blunt and "Charize" Theron! A "Travolta moment" early in the evening for Chris Rock. Intentional?

Best Original Screenplay: Spotlight

Could this be an early precursor to Best Picture? We shall see.

Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe are awesome together.

Gosling: "We have two Academy Awards between us." (Crowe has both. Ha!)

Best Adapted Screenplay: The Big Short

Nice to see someone acknowledge the book and thank the original writer. I could have done without the bizarre political rant afterward, but I guess it makes some sense considering the subject matter of the movie.

The clips interspersing black actors like Whoopi Goldberg, Chris Rock, and especially Tracy Morgan into Oscar nominated films were a riot!

Henry Cavill is out now. Is it really pronounced Cah-vul?

Best Supporting Actress: Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl

Silver Screen Sister 1 predicted Brie Larson – who wasn't in this category.

Before the winner was announced, Silver Screen Sister 2 went on a rant about Kate Winslet. "Anyone could've played that!" I disagree and adored Kate's performance, but she is streeping up there in the amount of nominations she's racked up. Yes, I meant to type streeping instead of creeping.

Alicia Vikander's co-star Eddie Redmayne appeared rather touched by her speech. "She seems very humble," according to Silver Screen Sister 2.

Chris Rock: "Now we're black" (pretending to trip over the word "back") – cute.

Best Costume Design: Mad Max: Fury Road

Jenny Beavan's list of people to thank – shown on a scrolling sidebar on the bottom of the screen – is enormous. I'm glad they're handling it this way, allowing her to make a more heartfelt, personal speech. Of course, music just had to cut her off. How rude!

Best Production Design: Mad Max: Fury Road

"The first Oscar for diversity." Nice!

Best Makeup and Hairstyling: Mad Max: Fury Road

Three straight for "Mad Max." Will this be it?

I hate when one winner interrupts another, especially at the end when there's barely any time left to speak.

Best Cinematography: The Revenant

A nice speech overtaken by emotion.

Best Film Editing: Mad Max: Fury Road

"Mad Max" wins its 4th Academy Award tonight – and the music cuts off the speaker again.

A serious, stone-faced Angela Bassett with a satirical Black History Month tribute to Will Smith – amazing!

Best Sound Editing: Mad Max: Fury Road

#5 for "Max."

Silver Screen Sister 2: "Why are they putting 'Mad Max' on the balcony if it's going to win everything?"

Best Sound Mixing: Mad Max: Fury Road

And here comes #6.

"Come on!" screamed Silver Screen Sister 2. "I don't even know what the movie is about. Is it a continuation?"

Best Visual Effects: Ex Machina

And the "Mad Max" streak is broken!

In poor taste: A close-up of actors looking bored during the speech, and only one of the four winners being allowed to speak.

Even a Star Wars segment couldn't cheer up a livid Silver Screen Sister 2: "How much time has passed? It's 10 o'clock already?! They've given out one good award. I hope they speed it up now."

Chris Rock and his daughters selling Girl Scout cookies to the billionaire actors in the audience – I love it!

Best Animated Short Film: Bear Story

I don't think I picked this in my Oscar pool. Damn it!

The first award for Chile. The Oscar-recipients feel so honored. I'm happy for them.

Best Animated Feature Film: Inside Out

"Regardless of a gold man, we get to make stuff!" Can't help but love that kind of passion.

"I have to see it!" begs Silver Screen Sister 2 about "Inside Out."

Funnyman Kevin Hart with a surprisingly serious and superb speech about black actors and their craft.

The Weeknd – that's the singer's name, apparently – "has the most creative hairdo on the planet," says Silver Screen Sister 1.

Ten awards left.

Silver Screen Sister 2: "There's an hour left" – so she thinks – "and they haven't given out one decent award yet! Thank God for Facebook."

The Silver Screen Sisters are more entertaining than this ceremony. Host Chris Rock has had some fun moments, but they're drowned out by the sheer length of this show.

Rock asking random black moviegoers about the hoity toity Oscar-nominated movies is a hoot! "Spotlight? What the hell is that?!"

"There's so much talent out there – of all races," says another fan. Amen!

Best Supporting Actor: Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies

A major upset.

"That's cruel!" laments Silver Screen Sister 2. "There are two Marks."

She has a point. I was predicting that the other Mark – Ruffalo – would get the upset over Sylvester Stallone, who many thought was a shoo-in.

Louis CK gives a wonderful and amusing speech about the importance of the Best Documentary Short Subject category.

Best Documentary Short Subject: A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness

"That's the best speech so far!" raves Silver Screen Sister 2. "It has some meaning to it."

Best Documentary Feature: Amy

Eight awards left – and with that, Silver Screen Sister 2 has gotten up and gone home.

Chris Rock with a major announcement: Over $65,000 in Girl Scout cookies sold. Not too shabby!

In Memoriam was touching, but where were Abe Vigoda and Roddy Piper? If "The Godfather" and "They Live" aren't good enough to make this list, what the hell is?

There are still eight awards left. I say this every year, but the Oscars are too damn long!

"They deliberately make it this long," Silver Screen Sister 1 points out. "What could they cut out?" I wonder. Then she lists a bunch of pointless skits.

Best Live Action Short Film: Stutterer

Best Foreign Language Film is next. Am I horrible for hoping that John Travolta would announce these nominees?

Best Foreign Language Film: Son of Saul

I'm so tired that I barely recognized Vice President Joe Biden. His speech decrying sexual abuse seems a hell of a lot more important to me than Will Smith and Jade Pinkett-Smith boycotting the Oscars. While there is certainly room for improvement when it comes to Hollywood and diversity, I do think there has been encouraging progress over the past ten years.

Best Original Score: The Hateful Eight

Best Original Song: "Writing's on the Wall" – Spectre

"No openly gay man has ever won an Oscar." Dustin Lance Black won it a few years ago for "Milk."

Sacha Baron Cohen is great!

Only four awards left. "I mean, that's another two hours, really," Silver Screen Sister 1 quipped.

Best Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu, The Revenant

Iñárritu wins this Oscar for the second year in a row, and they still try to cut him off with music – shameful! I know the show is already too long, but come on.

"They've been cutting everybody off with music," Silver Screen Sister 1 rightly notices.

Chris Rock: "It's late. It's infomercial late."

"That child is going to be traumatized for something that didn't even happen in his life!" Silver Screen Sister 1 says about "Joy's" husband and wife shouting scene in which a baby is held and shaken.

Best Actress: Brie Larson, Room

Nice of her to thank the average Joe moviegoers who paid money for a ticket to see her film. The fans are important too, and it seems that Hollywood sometimes forgets that.

Julianne Moore about "The Danish Girl": "One of the first people to undergo gender confirmation surgery." I thought that was a slip of the tongue, but Dr. Google says it's a legitimate phrase.

Best Actor: Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant

Silver Screen Sister 2 just texted me a million clapping emojis. She's obviously very happy with this result.

Leonardo DiCaprio's climate change spiel might have been more persuasive if he wasn't smirking throughout it.

Then again, another text from Silver Screen Sister 2: "That speech was worth the prior four hours of drivel."

Leo really is the king of the world!

Best Picture: Spotlight

Most of the experts pegged "The Revenant" but I had a feeling "Spotlight" would win, so I went against the grain and picked it in the Oscar pool I'm in. Congratulations!

Full Results

Best Picture: Spotlight

Best Actor: Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant

Best Actress: Brie Larson, Room

Best Supporting Actor: Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies

Best Supporting Actress: Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl

Best Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu, The Revenant

Best Adapted Screenplay: The Big Short

Best Original Screenplay: Spotlight

Best Animated Feature Film: Inside Out

Best Cinematography: The Revenant

Best Documentary Feature: Amy

Best Documentary Short Subject: A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness

Best Film Editing: Mad Max: Fury Road

Best Foreign Language Film: Son of Saul

Best Makeup and Hairstyling: Mad Max: Fury Road

Best Original Score: The Hateful Eight

Best Original Song: "Writing's on the Wall" – Spectre

Best Production Design: Mad Max: Fury Road

Best Costume Design: Mad Max: Fury Road

Best Live Action Short Film: Stutterer

Best Animated Short Film: Bear Story

Best Visual Effects: Ex Machina

Best Sound Editing: Mad Max: Fury Road

Best Sound Mixing: Mad Max: Fury Road

Remembering Alan Rickman

No Awards Needed

By Chris Sabga

The news broke of Alan Rickman's death – from cancer at the age of 69 – around the same time the Oscar nominations were announced.

The ultimate irony in that: Alan Rickman has never been nominated for an Academy Award.

I just about gasped at that shocking tidbit. But Rickman's passing so thoroughly overshadowed the awards announcement that it's safe to say his incredible career more than transcended those empty accolades.

In a 2008 interview with IFC, Rickman expressed a British workingman's sensibility about the Oscar rat race: "Parts win prizes, not actors. You always know a part that’s got ‘prize winner’ written all over it, and it’s almost like anybody could say those lines and somebody will hand them a piece of metal."

Like most of you reading this, my first exposure to Rickman's immense talents was as the charismatically villainous Hans Gruber in 1988's "Die Hard." It was an incredible performance that elevated the entire film and helped launch Bruce Willis's career as a major movie star. "Die Hard" is now considered one of the greatest action extravaganzas of the already excessive and explosive 1980s, and Rickman's character is universally recognized as one of the best bad guys ever.

My next glimpse of Rickman probably came three years later – in 1991's "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves." I despised the movie – I think I'm the only one – but Rickman was great in it. He always is.

Many years would pass before I would see Rickman again on-screen. I'll admit that I didn't particularly care for "Michael Collins," but Rickman was mesmerizing in it as Eamon de Valera, the real-life political figure who opposed the Irish resistance against the UK. Truthfully, I had no idea at the time that it was Rickman playing the part. He was such a chameleon as an actor that he completely disappeared into the role. It wasn't the only time I was fooled by one of his performances – even when I definitely should have known better.

The character he's perhaps most associated with is the complex and conflicted Severus Snape from the "Harry Potter" series. Yet, it took two or three movies before it finally clicked in my mind who was behind the sneering professor's raven hair. It was Rickman! Once again, the actor had vanished entirely in service of the character he was portraying.

I hate "Love Actually," and Rickman is actually to thank for that. He was such a downright cad that it spoiled my enjoyment of the movie and I remain upset on poor Emma Thompson's behalf to this day. That's how good he was as an actor.

His characters could be dark and dangerous, sneaky and shifty, but he was also an incredibly gifted comedic actor. His roles in "Dogma" and especially "Galaxy Quest" are proof of that. If you somehow haven't seen "Galaxy Quest," it's a fantastic satire on the "Star Trek" and sci-fi movies and culture – and Rickman was superb in it.

A legend of the screen and stage, was there anything Alan Rickman couldn't do?

Well, maybe get nominated for an Academy Award.

But that's a reflection of the broken Oscar system, not of Rickman's immeasurable gifts as an actor. He never needed "a piece of metal" to affirm his greatness. 

The 88th Annual Academy Awards: Nominations and Analysis

Thoughts, Snubs, and Probably Wrong Predictions

By Chris Sabga

With the news breaking this morning that Alan Rickman has died of cancer at the age of 69, I'm not really in the mood to look through the Oscar nominations. It doesn't help that I'm completely bored with the Academy Awards, as I wrote a mere few days ago. The only reason I'm even bothering with this right now is because I wrote about the Oscar nominations last year and the year before and...well, you get the idea. So, in the interest of OCD, I have to continue the pattern this year.

Here are my views (probably more abbreviated this year than usual), broken down into three categories.

Thoughts: Just my general take on the various nominations.

Snubs: What I feel got left out. I knew certain movies wouldn't make it to the Oscars, but that doesn't mean I can't personally champion them myself.

Early (and Probably Wrong) Prediction: Don't make your Oscar pool picks based on my thoughts.

And the Oscar goes to...

Best Picture

The Big Short

Bridge of Spies

Brooklyn

Mad Max: Fury Road

The Martian

The Revenant

Room

Spotlight

Thoughts: I'm surprised to see "Mad Max" on this list. It has been widely acclaimed by both critics and audiences, but action films are usually shunned by the sometimes snooty Oscars.

Snubs: Because I think the Academy should automatically love the movies I love, I'm going to say "Mr. Holmes," "The Intern," "Predestination," and "Steve Jobs," because why not. And I'm assuming "Straight Outta Compton," "Ex Machina," and "Sicario" will end up on several of these lists as well.

Early (and Probably Wrong) Prediction: "The Revenant" has the most nominations this year.

Best Actor

Bryan Cranston, Trumbo

Matt Damon, The Martian

Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant

Michael Fassbender, Steve Jobs

Eddie Redmayne, The Danish Girl

Thoughts: Maybe I shouldn't be, but I'm somewhat surprised to see Michael Fassbender here, even though "Steve Jobs" was a notorious flop at the box office.

Snubs: As Harvey Weinstein pointed out, no love for Ian McKellen in "Mr. Holmes." I haven't seen "Concussion" yet, but Will Smith's acting was incredible in the trailer.

Early (and Probably Wrong) Prediction: This has to be Leo's year – right?

Best Actress

Cate Blanchett, Carol

Brie Larson, Room

Jennifer Lawrence, Joy

Charlotte Rampling, 45 Years

Saoirse Ronan, Brooklyn

Thoughts: Is Saoirse Ronan a surprise, or was she expected? I'm honestly not sure.

Snubs: Helen Mirren was great in "The Woman in Gold." Sarah Snook was amazing in "Predestination." I liked Anne Hathaway in "The Intern" – but Oscar never shines a spotlight on such light, breezy, enjoyable performances. Women (and men) have to suffer for their art to gain recognition by the Academy.

Early (and Probably Wrong) Prediction: Brie Larson, who has been gaining recognition since her great performance in the powerful but problematic "Short Term 12."

Best Supporting Actor

Christian Bale, The Big Short

Tom Hardy, The Revenant

Mark Ruffalo, Spotlight

Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies

Sylvester Stallone, Creed

Thoughts: Always glad to see Sly take the Oscar stage.

Snubs: Little Milo Parker was phenomenal in "Mr. Holmes." I realize it was more of a lead role, but since kids aren't always seen as real people, he probably would've been bounced down to Supporting anyway. Ryan Reynolds' performance in "The Woman in Gold" was underrated, and he went through the type of physical transformation Oscar usually loves. Robert De Niro was terrific in "The Intern" but that's not the type of performance or movie that the Academy tends to reward.

Early (and Probably Wrong) Prediction: Sylvester Stallone or Tom Hardy.

Best Supporting Actress

Jennifer Jason Leigh, The Hateful Eight

Rooney Mara, Carol

Rachel McAdams, Spotlight

Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl

Kate Winslet, Steve Jobs

Thoughts: I wasn't sure Kate would make it, but I'm glad she did. Her ascent as the Academy's "modern Meryl" continues.

Snubs: Probably.

Early (and Probably Wrong) Prediction: Kate Winslet. Hey, she made it this far already!

Best Director

Adam McKay, The Big Short

George Miller, Mad Max: Fury Road

Alejandro González Iñárritu, The Revenant

Lenny Abrahamson, Room

Tom McCarthy, Spotlight

Thoughts: Can Alejandro González Iñárritu win for a second year in a row?

Snubs: Maybe Danny Boyle for "Steve Jobs" – not that anyone was expecting too much Oscar love for that movie.

Early (and Probably Wrong) Prediction: I'll be bold and say Iñárritu gets it again.

Best Adapted Screenplay

The Big Short

Brooklyn

Carol

The Martian

Room

Thoughts: See below.

Snubs: I'm assuming "Steve Jobs" would count as as an Adapted screenplay because it was inspired by several sources. But if everyone in the Academy was as confused as I am, that could be why it's not here. Or maybe everyone is taking Aaron Sorkin's great writing for granted at this point. "Mr. Holmes" realistically had no chance in hell to begin with, but I'll list it anyway. "Predestination" somehow took a story that was only a few pages along (Robert A. Heinlein's "All You Zombies") and turned it into a two-hour film, all while remaining true to the source material. That's impressive to me!

Early (and Probably Wrong) Prediction: The Big Short.

Best Original Screenplay

Bridge of Spies

Ex Machina

Inside Out

Spotlight

Straight Outta Compton

Thoughts: "Straight Outta Compton" gets its sole nomination in this category. Has an animated film ("Inside Out") ever been nominated for Best Original Screenplay before?

Snubs: "What We Do in the Shadows" was pretty clever, but good luck getting a vampire movie nominated for anything!

Early (and Probably Wrong) Prediction: Could "Compton" win its only nomination? Nah. I'm guessing the spotlight will go to … drumroll … "Spotlight."

_____

Other thoughts: I definitely sound like a broken record about "Steve Jobs" at this point, but I'm wondering if it deserved a Cinematography nomination too. The film somehow managed to turn sterile corporate environments and bland backstage areas into beautiful setpieces. As I wrote in my review: For a film that essentially consists of nonstop dialogue and people walking into different rooms, it is subtly stylish. The three time periods are each filmed differently: 1984 is grainy with a dark and drab color scheme, 1988 feels more open with a richer palette but retains a traditional film look, and 2008 is shot digitally and looks clear and bright. There are also other visual flourishes, such as a nighttime board meeting with rain pouring behind a glass window – a dazzling backdrop. 

_____

The rest of the categories and nominees are:

Best Animated Feature Film

Anomalisa

Boy and the World

Inside Out

Shaun the Sheep Movie

When Marnie Was There

Best Cinematography

Carol

The Hateful Eight

Mad Max: Fury Road

The Revenant

Sicario

Best Documentary Feature

Amy

Cartel Land

The Look of Silence

What Happened, Miss Simone?

Winter on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom

Best Documentary Short Subject

Body Team 12

Chau, Beyond the Lines

Claude Lanzmann: Spectres of the Shoah

A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness

Last Day of Freedom

Best Film Editing

The Big Short

Mad Max: Fury Road

The Revenant

Spotlight

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Best Foreign Language Film

Embrace of the Serpent

Mustang

Son of Saul

Theeb

A War

Best Makeup and Hairstyling

Mad Max: Fury Road

The 100-Year Old Man Who Climbed Out a Window and Disappeared

The Revenant

Best Original Score

Bridge of Spies

Carol

The Hateful Eight

Sicario

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Best Original Song

"Earned It"

"Manta Ray"

"Simple Song No. 3"

"Till It Happens to You"

"Writing's on the Wall"

Best Production Design

Bridge of Spies

The Danish Girl

Mad Max: Fury Road

The Martian

The Revenant

Best Costume Design

Carol

Cinderella

The Danish Girl

Mad Max: Fury Road

The Revenant

Best Live Action Short Film

Ave Maria

Day One

Everything Will Be Okay (Alles Wird Gut)

Shok

Stutterer

Best Animated Short Film

Bear Story

Prologue

Sanjay's Super Team

We Can't Live Without Cosmos

World of Tomorrow

Best Visual Effects

Ex Machina

Mad Max: Fury Road

The Martian

The Revenant

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Best Sound Editing

Mad Max: Fury Road

The Martian

The Revenant

Sicario

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Best Sound Mixing

Bridge of Spies

Mad Max: Fury Road

The Martian

The Revenant

Star Wars: The Force Awakens