#Frank Cappello

[adamwatchesmovies]

Constantine (2005)

Constantine comes from the era of comic book film adaptation when we were just happy to get ANYTHING. This allowed writers, directors and executives to do whatever they wanted to make the stories and characters more accessible and bankable without mobs coming to their doors with pitchforks and torches. Unfortunately, this often resulted in generic, forgettable films. The less familiar you are with the Hellblazer comics, the more likely you are to appreciate this less-than-faithful take on the character. I enjoyed it just enough to give it a mild recommendation while hoping a better adaptation will someday leave this one in the dust.

In LA, cynical occultist John Constantine (Keanu Reeves) is surprised to find a demon attempting to enter our world through its possessed host, rather than simply puppeteering her the way demons usually do. Meanwhile, Detective Angela Dodson (Rachel Weisz) is shocked when her twin sister, Isabel, commits suicide. Isabel knew this mortal sin would condemn her to Hell, which prompts Angela to suspect she was actually murdered. These strange events are somehow linked to a strange spearhead discovered in a ruined church in Mexico that possesses a man (Jesse Ramirez) while granting him near-invincibility.

With his American accent and black hair, this Constantine feels a lot more like a traditional cynical hero than the blonde from Liverpool you'll find in the pages of DC/Vertigo's comics. There are worse things your movie could do, but it doesn’t help make the story memorable. There's got a mystery that leads to a big threat, which is a good spine to build your skeleton upon. We’re introduced to several rules about the world. Turns out that God and the Devil (Peter Stormare) are competing for mankind’s souls and that neither demons nor angels can directly interfere; they only “influence” people. “Half-breed” angels and demons can walk around doing what they want, however, and when they go too far, Constantine puts them back in their place. He’s doing this to win himself a spot in Heaven. Our favorite exorcist has terminal lung cancer - that’s what you get for smoking non-stop. Maybe this case will be the one to get him his golden ticket. I dunno. Doesn’t it feel like more could be done with this? When you boil it down, Constantine isn’t much deeper than End of Days with Arnold Schwarzenegger and is that really where we want to be?

It’s the details of the world that wind up interesting us in the end. The visions of Hell we see are unique. It’s like a perpetual nuclear sandstorm ripping apart a parallel Earth, with damned souls squirming in agony below while demons prowl about. Getting there requires you to perform simple but convincing-looking rituals, which is one of the standout moments. Rachel Weisz and Keanu Reeves have some pretty good chemistry, even if it would be a cliché for her to fall for a man who didn’t even hold the elevator door open for her the first time they met. Pruitt Taylor Vince as Father Hennessy has an inventive encounter with a demon. Shia LaBeouf plays Chas Kramer, Constantine’s driver and apprentice but he’s gone for such large chunks of the movie you wonder why he was even included. Tilda Swinton has a memorable but small role as the Archangel Gabriel. At this point, I feel like I’m just going through a list of things about the movie, which anyone could do… but maybe that’s all there is to say. How does the movie make you feel? Excited while Constantine is shooting demons with his cross-shaped gun or punching them with holy brass knuckles, I guess. Intrigued when we’re piecing together the clues behind Isabel’s death, I guess. Not exactly a rousing endorsement but the film is not boring. It moves, you want to see what’s coming next and once it’s over, it’s out of your mind.   Could it be that I’m nostalgic for Constantine? I do remember seeing it when it was released on DVD. In fact, I specifically remember buying it. I went to HMV looking for V for Vendetta. This was going to mark my official transition from VHS to discs and when I got to the store, I saw they had an exclusive 2-pack that included Constantine for free. Maybe that’s what's tipping me over the scale; the fact that I didn’t have to pay anything to see this film. If you decide to check it out, stay all the way to the end of the credits for a bonus scene. (August 16, 2022)

[wornoutspines]

Constantine (2005) Movie Review | Entertaining on Multiple Levels

Maybe not the most accurate version of John Constantine but the 2005 Constantine movie still makes an impression. #ThrowbackThursday #Constantine #KeanuReeves #RachelWeisz #DjimonHounsou #ShiaLaBeouf #hellblazer

I did not know this, before looking it up, but it turns out, I’m in a Matthew Vaughn situation with Constantine‘s director – well almost. Similar to Vaughn, there are a lot of Francis Lawrence‘s works that I’m familiar with. From the movies (I Am Legend, Catching Fire, Water for Elephants, Mockingjay), to music videos, or TV Pilots; I’ve watched and appreciated a lot of things he directed. Here,…

[90smovies]

[vintage-tech]

Celebs you didn't realize made an appearance on Miami Vice (1984-1990).

Plenty of music personalities, including the hunky saxophone player from The Lost Boys (Tim Cappello) and both of the people best associated with the music from the show (Glenn Frey and Jan Hammer). And then there was Frank Zappa.

[sciencegothic]

on henry jekyll, and what it means to embrace duality

@ode-2-joy || duality - john feaster || strange case of doctor jekyll and mr hyde - robert louis stevenson || the fire said - prinson afonso || constantine - kevin brodbin, frank cappello || brutus - the buttress || dr jekyll and mr hyde - clara beranger || reflections - frank widhorn

[loremori]

🎬| Constantine (2005) Directed Francis Lawrence Written Jamie Delano | Garth Ennis | Kevin Brodbin | Frank A. Cappello

Any chance of those two working together? Probably not.

[screenmovie]

Keanu Reeves as John Constantine,

Constantine, 2005, directed by Francis Lawrence, written by Kevin Brodbin and Frank Cappello and based on the Hellblazer comic-book.

[tinyreviews]

One of those films where the atmosphere and setting alone can hold the movie up.

Constantine is a 2005 American superhero horror film directed by Francis Lawrence in his directorial debut. Written by Kevin Brodbin and Frank Cappello, it is loosely based on DC Comics' Hellblazer comic book. The film stars Keanu Reeves, with Rachel Weisz, Shia LaBeouf, Tilda Swinton, Pruitt Taylor Vince, Djimon Hounsou, Gavin Rossdale, and Peter Stormare.

[ulkaralakbarova]

It’s the 1970s and San Diego anchorman Ron Burgundy is the top dog in local TV, but that’s all about to change when ambitious reporter Veronica Corningstone arrives as a new employee at his station. Credits: TheMovieDb. Film Cast: Ron Burgundy: Will Ferrell Veronica Corningstone: Christina Applegate Brian Fantana: Paul Rudd Brick Tamland: Steve Carell Champ Kind: David Koechner Ed Harken: Fred Willard Garth Holliday: Chris Parnell Helen: Kathryn Hahn Tino: Fred Armisen Eager Cameraman: Seth Rogen MC: Paul F. Tompkins Bartender: Danny Trejo Waiter at Tino’s: Scot Robinson Stage Manager: Ian Roberts Hot Blonde: Darcy Donavan Petite Brunette: Renee Weldon Tino’s Bassist: Jerry Minor Director: Holmes Osborne Security Guard: Charles Walker Biker Guy: Thomas E. Mastrolia Eyewitness News Member: Jay Johnston Man in Kitchen: Peter A. Hulne Donna: Laura Kightlinger Custodian: Adam McKay Custodian: Joseph T. Mastrolia News Station Employee: Judd Apatow News Station Employee: Debra McGuire Network Reporter: Kent Shocknek Yelling Woman: Monique McIntyre Bum: Bob Rummler Announcer: Chuck Poynter Middle Class Mother: Esmerelda McQuillan Elderly Woman: Angela Grillo Wealthy Family Father: Lionel Allen Wealthy Family Mother: Trina D. Johnson Doctor: Fred Dresch Middle Class Dad: Glen Hambly Nursing Room Resident: Stuart Gold Bill Lawson – Narrator (voice): Bill Kurtis Motorcyclist: Jack Black Arturo Mendes: Ben Stiller Frank Vitchard: Luke Wilson Frank the Bartender (uncredited): Frank Gorgie Zoo Keeper (uncredited): Missi Pyle Public TV News Anchor (uncredited): Tim Robbins Wes Mantooth (uncredited): Vince Vaughn Man in Bar (uncredited): Jerry Stiller Secretary (uncredited): Holly Traister Zoologist with Panda in Doug or Glen scene (uncredited): Matthew Vlahakis Reporter / Anchor (uncredited): Richard Yett Film Crew: Supervising Sound Editor: Mark A. Mangini Casting: Jeanne McCarthy Sound Effects Editor: Richard L. Anderson Stunts: Jack Gill Hair Department Head: Toni-Ann Walker Location Manager: Jeremy Alter Casting: Juel Bestrop Set Decoration: Jan Pascale Music Editor: Ellen Segal Writer: Will Ferrell Executive Producer: David O. Russell Art Direction: Virginia Randolph-Weaver Set Designer: Sally Thornton Director of Photography: Thomas E. Ackerman Music: Alex Wurman Producer: Judd Apatow Executive Producer: Shauna Robertson Editor: Brent White Costume Design: Debra McGuire Stunts: Joe Bucaro III Production Design: Clayton R. Hartley Writer: Adam McKay Co-Producer: David B. Householter Casting: Blythe Cappello Second Assistant Director: Basil Grillo First Assistant Director: Matt Rebenkoff Second Unit Director: Rick Avery Construction Coordinator: John R. Elliott Foley Artist: Joan Rowe Foley Artist: Sean Rowe Stunt Double: Sophia M. Crawford Property Master: Scott Maginnis Color Timer: David Orr Makeup Department Head: Kimberly Greene Script Supervisor: Rebecca Asher Sound Effects Editor: Mike Chock Sound Effects Editor: Donald Flick Key Hair Stylist: Joy Zapata Dialogue Editor: Ralph Osborn Sound Effects Editor: Piero Mura Set Designer: Randall D. Wilkins Set Designer: Barbara Mesney Still Photographer: Frank Masi Visual Effects Supervisor: Ray McIntyre Jr. Key Grip: Lloyd Moriarity Leadman: Louise Del Araujo Production Supervisor: Diane L. Sabatini Video Assist Operator: Paul Murphey Dialogue Editor: Thomas Jones Transportation Coordinator: Michael Menapace CG Supervisor: David Alexander Smith Dialogue Editor: Solange S. Schwalbe Digital Effects Supervisor: Reid Paul Still Photographer: Darren Michaels Additional Editing: Melissa Bretherton Art Department Coordinator: Jeanne Bueche Makeup Artist: Erin Wooldridge Music Editor: Erica Weis Visual Effects Supervisor: Richard R. Hoover Production Sound Mixer: Jim Stuebe First Assistant Camera: Baird Steptoe “A” Camera Operator: Harry K. Garvin Orchestrator: Tom Calderaro Visual Effects Producer: Diana Stulic Ibanez Stunts: Lisa Hoyle ADR Mixer: Jeff Gomillion “B” Camera Operator: Steven Hiller Stunts: Joni Avery Sound Recordist: Philip Rogers Assistant Art Di...

[linuxgamenews]

Discover Newport City in Crime: 1997 Coming to Steam Early Access in 2024

Crime: 1997 action adventure game developer talks about a port for Linux and Mac with Windows PC. Thanks to the talented team at Bad Guys Games for this unique experience. Due to make its way onto Steam Early Access in 2024. Crime: 1997 is a title that is shaping up to be something unique in the gaming world, and I'm here to break it down for you.

...after the release of Crime: 1997 we will release a Linux and Mac version of the game.

After the much-anticipated 2024 release of Crime: 1997, the developer will be bringing the title to both Linux and Mac users. Since they already recognize the potential of the platform. So they are committed to delivering an experience that rivals what players know on Windows PC. And as a result, I'm keen to see how this action adventure comes together. First off, the setting - Newport City, 1997. This place is a labyrinth of millions of stories, and you're diving into one heck of a narrative with Henry Gallagher of the Waterside gang. They get intense when a botched deal throws Henry and his crew into a dangerous dance with the law and, unexpectedly, with Frank Sorvino's Mafia family. Talk about a twist! But hold on, Crime: 1997 gets better. There's a new drug hitting the streets, and it's turning the city upside down. Everyone's after a slice of this lucrative pie, and it's not just a battle of brawn; it's a mind game. A covert war is brewing and the stakes? Higher than ever.

Crime: 1997 Trailer

Now, on February 20, 2024, Bad Guys will release the second trailer. The audio tracks are by Davide Cappello. A perfect match for the gritty, pulsating life of Newport. The trailer's also going to reveal the demo release date and when we can expect the full game later in the year. The Crime: 1997 key features? You're following Henry's journey through gang wars, police showdowns, and a booming drug market. It's not just about fighting; it's about strategy, alliances, and survival. You'll be making alliances, breaking them, all while trying to stay one step ahead in a city where trust is a rare commodity. Managing the drug trade? That's on you. Crime: 1997 lets you expand, protect, and dominate. But remember, every move counts. Newport City is alive. It's not just a backdrop; it's a character in its own right, full of stories, danger, and opportunities. And the moral choices? They're all yours. Every decision shapes Henry's fate in this unforgiving world. So, are you ready to take on Newport City? To navigate the thin line between right and wrong, where every choice could be your last? Crime: 1997 isn't just an action adventure title; it's a plunge into a world where the nights are long, and the risks are real. It's your story. How will it unfold? Coming to Steam Early Access in Q2 2024. Coming to Linux, Mac, and Windows PC.

[adamwatchesmovies]

Suburban Commando (1991)

While I didn't enjoy this film, that doesn't mean you won't. No matter what I say, the people involved in this project did it: they actually made a movie. That's something to be applauded. With that established...

From the setup, you expect Suburban Commando to be fairly straightforward. It probably won’t be good but by following its formula, it might entertain kids. Inexplicably, the film misses all of the easy opportunities given to it and doesn’t even manage to meet the meagre expectations placed upon it. At best, it has a couple of meme-worthy scenes. You won’t remember this movie down the line.

Intergalactic warrior Step Ramsey (Hulk Hogan) has finally defeated the villainous General Suitor (William Ball) but just barely. His superior suggests he take a vacation, which sees him become marooned on a backwater planet - Earth. Attempting to blend in with the locals until his ship repairs itself, he befriends Charlie Wilcox (Christopher Lloyd), an unappreciated architect working for Adrian Beltz (Larry Miller).

A warrior from a distant world finding himself out of his environment and befriending a local to kill time is not a new plot. The thing is, usually these types of stories have the outsider pair up with a kid. You can see why after this movie. Having a grown man mess with Ramsey’s high-tech gear and try to be a superhero just doesn’t feel right. When Ramsey gets in trouble because he misunderstands stuff we take for granted, you keep thinking Wilcox should have a tighter leash on him. It gets weirder because Wilcox has a son you think is going to be Hulk Hogan’s sidekick. It's like he was added as an afterthought, but the role has more to offer than Shelley Duvall's. She plays Mrs. Wilcox and has nothing to do.

The character arcs are clumsy and predictable. Charlie’s biggest obstacles are a pair of redneck neighbors who steal his parking spot (a subplot that never gets resolved), his underappreciative boss, and a stoplight. Okay then. Step Ramsey (whose name is distracting because it sounds so much like Chef Ramsey) might as well be a robot. Hogan is little more than a prop dragged around from one episodic gag to the next. Even if he could act, he isn’t given the opportunity to. At least his physical prowess is well used in the film’s best scenes, all of which include a mime whose luck has run out.

It all builds towards an ending that’s uninspired and generic but at least Suburban Commando is harmless. If you’re thinking this is going to be one of those “so bad it’s good” movies, you will get a couple of laughs from the scenes where it steals from Star Wars wholesale but those moments come and go quickly. After that, you’re stuck watching a movie that makes you wonder why anyone bothered. (On VHS, January 17, 2020)

[cbmnet]

#CBM #SwampThing #Constantine

[straightfromamovie]

Heaven and hell are right here. Behind every wall, every window. The world behind the world, and we are smack in the middle.

John Constantine, Constantine

[90smovies]

Suburban Commando

[trashvideofinland]

Amerikan Yakuza / American Yakuza (1993) Finnkino https://www.videospace.fi/release/amerikan_yakuza_vhs_finnkino_finland

[screenmovie]

Keanu Reeves as John Constantine,

Constantine, 2005, directed by Francis Lawrence, written by Kevin Brodbin and Frank Cappello and based on the Hellblazer comic-book.