902 replies to this topic

[Zorin Industries]

what the heck is Metascore? (!). When people who have no intention of ever liking or getting a film like AWAY WE GO are the only ones compiling "data" for websites that reduce all film consumption to marks out of ten, I personally don't put much credence in it. Sorry.

A metascore is a weighted average. It's a widely accepted form of measurement.

Okay. But how does that relate to film consumption and audiences?

EDIT: And if Away We Go and QoS got 58 out of 10 they did very well indeed.

I was being general. I am not that bothered - and neither is the film making fraternity - by sites like Rotten Tomatoes. Since when - in this instance - did a site named after ailing fruit become some benchmark of film audiences? Not having a go at you, I just find this reliance on data from these sites to debate filmmakers creative choices (be it casting a director, writer or actor) to be most odd.

This seems more like Mendes going hat-in-hand to two of his friends to get him a job after a few box office let-downs.

His best movie is American Beauty. A decade on, it hasn't exactly aged well. It might soon crack my "overrated" top ten. This already reeks like another QoS-like disaster.

The likes of Sam Mendes do not go hat in hand to anyone.

And if BOND 23 was anywhere near what some class as "disasterous" then I hope for more disasters of the same with the next Bond film (assuming we get one).

[Ambler]

I share some of your concerns about the usefulness of numerical scores for the arts. Nevertheless, Metacritic provides a useful link to professional critics' reviews, something of increasing use in a medium dominated by the amateur and fanboy.

[Trident]

This already reeks like another QoS-like disaster.

Aw, c'mmon! Isn't that a wee little bit crass? We're still talking (substanciated?) rumour-stage here and already people fear the worst. I suggest re-watching Mendes' films (I loved 'American Beauty' and 'Jarhead' but suspect it's easier to enjoy them when you've reached a certain age), particularly with an eye to his direction. Chances are you'll find quite a fine director that has earned his reputation, every damn inch of it (MHO, of course). This would be a terrific choice for Bond 23 and I'm starting to adore, really adore EON for going their route further!

[Zorin Industries]

I share some of your concerns about the usefulness of numerical scores for the arts. Nevertheless, Metacritic provides a useful link to professional critics' reviews, something of increasing use in a medium dominated by the amateur and fanboy.

Not from my experience. Not every film made needs, wants or generates fan boy attention. But I get what you mean.

[Quantumofsolace007]

Zorin I'm curious if I'm correct on something

Mendes will be announced as director after the 15th because by that point MGm will know who is going to own them and there forth will have the money to pay Mendes his director check hence why now everyone says in negoations not signed. The reason for mendes and bond 23 getting reved up is Mgm (and whoever buys them) wants a gaurenteed hit as soon as possible which lets face it bond 23 is.


Am i right in thinking that or wrong?

[Zorin Industries]

Zorin I'm curious if I'm correct on something

Mendes will be announced as director after the 15th because by that point MGm will know who is going to own them and there forth will have the money to pay Mendes his director check hence why now everyone says in negoations not signed. The reason for mendes and bond 23 getting reved up is Mgm (and whoever buys them) wants a gaurenteed hit as soon as possible which lets face it bond 23 is.


Am i right in thinking that or wrong?

In reply, the MGM issue could be protracted. Legalities in any industry are prolonged and often delayed for all sorts of reasons. Remember that who MGM is passed on to is very important to the Bond people. It needs to be a relationship that appeases and improves everyone involved and their prospective fortunes. Danjaq/Eon and all the other Bond subsidary companies and set-ups (there are a few) need everything to be airtight deal wise. This takes time. The Broccolis have had their fingers burnt before (and at the hands of a different incarnation of MGM) so any speculation is just that.

This Mendes rumour is only that just now. Yes, any potential owners of MGM (or whatever it will be called) will want to get Bond and other films and money spinners up and running. But I don't think anyone is going to commit to announcement dates when so much hangs - sadly - in the balance. The fact there has been some apparent effort by named people to clear the air rumour-wise suggests that the time scale of this one may not be brief but that things are up and running in some Bond corridors. Time will tell...

[blueman]

This already reeks like another QoS-like disaster.

Aw, c'mmon! Isn't that a wee little bit crass? We're still talking (substanciated?) rumour-stage here and already people fear the worst. I suggest re-watching Mendes' films (I loved 'American Beauty' and 'Jarhead' but suspect it's easier to enjoy them when you've reached a certain age), particularly with an eye to his direction. Chances are you'll find quite a fine director that has earned his reputation, every damn inch of it (MHO, of course). This would be a terrific choice for Bond 23 and I'm starting to adore, really adore EON for going their route further!

And, since when is QOS a disaster??? Some around here think it's the best Bond since OHMSS.

[sthgilyadgnivileht]

Then I am right in thinking that this news or rumour, put it however you like, of Mendes directing does nothing to obviate the very precarious situation the Bond series is in, until matters are settled studio wise.

[Zorin Industries]

Then I am right in thinking that this news or rumour, put it however you like, of Mendes directing does nothing to obviate the very precarious situation the Bond series is in, until matters are settled studio wise.

I would say yes. But it underlines how the show must go on, if if the fat lady hasn't sung her last....

[blueman]

Yeah sure, but with all the money waiting to be made from 23, any holdup will be short-lived. $500 mil+ talks LOUD.

[Orion]

http://www.totalfilm...erfect-for-bond

Great article from Total Film about why they feel Mendes is perfect for Bond.

They point out that Road To Perdition was the film that truely showed off how brilliant an actor Craig can be (they use the phrase "Scene stealing"), which makes me alot more excited than i was yesterday which is saying alot.

[Zorin Industries]

but with all the money waiting to be made from 23, any holdup will be short-lived. $500 mil+ talks LOUD.

Absolutely. But so do Bond management.

[blueman]

but with all the money waiting to be made from 23, any holdup will be short-lived. $500 mil+ talks LOUD.

Absolutely. But so do Bond management.

Yup. And their partner studio(s) will likely do everything they possibly can to ensure 23 comes off in reasonable time and without hitches from their end.

The money thing will sort itself out, not expecting delays for Bond (lookit the news we're debating ).

[sthgilyadgnivileht]

but with all the money waiting to be made from 23, any holdup will be short-lived. $500 mil+ talks LOUD.

Absolutely. But so do Bond management.

Because it's a two way street with Bond. Personally, I don't think Eon will make 23 unless they get a deal they are happy with. Fingers crossed it will all work out though.

[Salomé]

And, since when is QOS a disaster??? Some around here think it's the best Bond since OHMSS.

Some think the sun revolves around the earth as well. What's your point?

[DamnCoffee]

And, since when is QOS a disaster??? Some around here think it's the best Bond since OHMSS.

Some think the sun revolves around the earth as well. What's your point?

I think he got Quantum and Casino Royale mixed up again.

[mcdonbb]

Wow, just...wow. Not just the news that Mendes might direct (they are currently working on a deal to bring Sam on as a consultant with an eye to direct), but the way people react on this forum.

Like someone mentioned earlier, a decade ago EON talked to directors of such classics as 'No Escape', 'Stop or My Mom Will Shoot', 'Enough' & 'xXx: The Next Level' and now they are talking to the director of the modern classic (and - in my humble opinion - one of the few films that actually deserved an Academy Award for Best Picture) 'American Beauty'. Babs and Mike are miracle workers and yet some people are still complaining.

Sure Mendes hasn't made a film as good as 'American Beauty' since, but who has? It was a perfect film and every film Mendes has made since was at the very least stellar. My least favorite 'Revolutionary Road' was still brilliantly acted and looked amazing. And look at his other films 'Jarhead', 'Away We Go' & of course 'Road to Perdition'. I still can't believe there is a chance this man will walk into the world of Bond. Here's a director who can work in every genre (drama, gangster, war, period, roadmovie) and can adopt a completely different style with every movie he makes. A director who is a genius with actors and has a perfect aesthetic eye, yet some people are still complaining.

You have an Academy Award winning director, an Academy Award winning writer, an Academy Award winning actress, Daniel Craig as Bond, all Brits... yet some people are still complaining??

Wow, seriously... wow.

Yeah I agree with this guy...not a big Corvette fan but yeah.. C'mon u want someone who can tell a story...and yes Martin Campbell is okay but sloppy and not all that either...Foster just didnt get it but hes a good director...Apted well I wanted to do well but lets not even go there...

[Skudor]

And, since when is QOS a disaster??? Some around here think it's the best Bond since OHMSS.

Some think the sun revolves around the earth as well. What's your point?

I think he got Quantum and Casino Royale mixed up again.

Actually Quantum of Solace (along with Casino Royale) is the best Bond film since the 60s.

[DamnCoffee]

I respect your opinion Skudor, but I think Casino Royale is far more superior.

Anyway, back on topic.
I have no problem at all with Mendes consulting Bond 23, he's an unknown director to me, but from what I've heard of his films, he seems to be a highly acclaimed director. I will probably check out some of this movies when we get official confirmation.

[Judo chop]

Then quit reading my posts! BlOODY HELL! It's not that difficult.

In all fairness, GS, it's not that easy either. They're among the longer posts on any given thread and your use of exclamated ALL CAPS has a way of calling attention as well. I think it's human nature to look at the person talking directly at you.

Have you ever tried to drive down a freeway crowded with billboard advertisements and resist looking at a single one? It's surprisingly HARD!

[Jim]

You are becoming an increasingly unpleasant and snipey individual Mr Silhouette.

Then quit reading my posts! BlOODY HELL! It's not that difficult. There are plenty of people around here whose posts I don't bother to read. Not interested in 'em. Try it.

Just accept that there are different opinions and experiences to how you view or read things. There is no need to resort to childish and crass swipes - which is exactly the reason why I don't lay a few of my cards on the table and explain where I am coming from. But as you do not entertain explanations from people when they challenge your trollish stance on things, your juvenile and nastily playful tone is nothing but unpleasant.... and a few others round these shores are well aware of that.

The difference with me is that I don't go into threads and tell people what to say, what not to say, tell them that they don't know the whole story, that they can't trust the media, that they can't even trust the producer and writer of the series (CRIKES!) even if they've been recorded on video and audio saying things about the series.

If I am not interested in a subject, I simply don't go into that thread. I don't spend my time telling others that their speculation and opinion is groundless because they weren't in on the pre-production meetings. You're like a lump of coal in a Christmas stocking....an apple in a kid's Halloween candy basket...a shiv in the prison shower....constantly going around these threads looking for ways to insinuate that you know more and we know less (and a few others around these shores are well aware of that to). I don't care what you know, man. I really don't. I'm going to speculate about the series until hell freezes over, and there is nothing you can do or say that's going to change that. Live with it.

This is now becoming very, very boring.

But, more worryingly, personal.

Can it or be canned.

I am really not interested in who started it. I will be the one who stops it.

[Royal Dalton]

Those two are obviously secretly in love, but are pretending not to like each other.

And if BOND 23 was anywhere near what some class as "disasterous" then I hope for more disasters of the same with the next Bond film (assuming we get one).

You are Doctor Who and I claim my five pounds.

[Trident]

but with all the money waiting to be made from 23, any holdup will be short-lived. $500 mil+ talks LOUD.

Absolutely. But so do Bond management.

Because it's a two way street with Bond. Personally, I don't think Eon will make 23 unless they get a deal they are happy with. Fingers crossed it will all work out though.

So, whatever the substance of this rumour may turn out to be, we're still faced with the same basic situation, Bond 23 having to take the MGM hurdle as fast and as gracefully as possible? Is there any chance the Mendes rumour was leaked by either side to influence the bidding process in a 'desirable' direction? I mean, it's a fairly big coincidence that this 'news' surfaced right when the MGM bidding heats up? Isn't that most peculiar?

[zencat]

This is now becoming very, very boring.

But, more worryingly, personal.

Can it or be canned.

I am really not interested in who started it. I will be the one who stops it.

Bravo, Jim. Seems like every thread I click into there is some personal pissing match going on between two members. You guys really need to cool it. PM each other if you're dying to argue and insult. The rest of us would like a civil forum to post in.

Is there any chance the Mendes rumour was leaked by either side to influence the bidding process in a 'desirable' direction? I mean, it's a fairly big coincidence that this 'news' surfaced right when the MGM bidding heats up? Isn't that most peculiar?

Yes, I'm certain it was strategically leaked.

[bondrules]

but with all the money waiting to be made from 23, any holdup will be short-lived. $500 mil+ talks LOUD.

Absolutely. But so do Bond management.

Because it's a two way street with Bond. Personally, I don't think Eon will make 23 unless they get a deal they are happy with. Fingers crossed it will all work out though.

So, whatever the substance of this rumour may turn out to be, we're still faced with the same basic situation, Bond 23 having to take the MGM hurdle as fast and as gracefully as possible? Is there any chance the Mendes rumour was leaked by either side to influence the bidding process in a 'desirable' direction? I mean, it's a fairly big coincidence that this 'news' surfaced right when the MGM bidding heats up? Isn't that most peculiar?

Makes perfect sense. Well said.

[Matt_13]

This is now becoming very, very boring.

But, more worryingly, personal.

Can it or be canned.

I am really not interested in who started it. I will be the one who stops it.

Bravo, Jim. Seems like every thread I click into there is some personal pissing match going on between two members. You guys really need to cool it. PM each other if you're dying to argue and insult. The rest of us would like a civil forum to post in.

Is there any chance the Mendes rumour was leaked by either side to influence the bidding process in a 'desirable' direction? I mean, it's a fairly big coincidence that this 'news' surfaced right when the MGM bidding heats up? Isn't that most peculiar?

Yes, I'm certain it was strategically leaked.

I find all of this immensely interesting. Love this kind of stuff.

[Trident]

but with all the money waiting to be made from 23, any holdup will be short-lived. $500 mil+ talks LOUD.

Absolutely. But so do Bond management.

Because it's a two way street with Bond. Personally, I don't think Eon will make 23 unless they get a deal they are happy with. Fingers crossed it will all work out though.

So, whatever the substance of this rumour may turn out to be, we're still faced with the same basic situation, Bond 23 having to take the MGM hurdle as fast and as gracefully as possible? Is there any chance the Mendes rumour was leaked by either side to influence the bidding process in a 'desirable' direction? I mean, it's a fairly big coincidence that this 'news' surfaced right when the MGM bidding heats up? Isn't that most peculiar?

Makes perfect sense. Well said.

'Look, who's been a busy bee!'

Certainly a point for the 'right' people to up their commitment a notch or three.

[danslittlefinger]

Peace please.

[Judo chop]

I think it's human nature to look at the person talking directly at you.

Maybe I have a stronger constitution or more will power.

Or you lack a human's nature.

No, but seriously. To say you have "more" will power is to say that you need the power to begin with. And you only need power if there is an opposing force. I'm sure you feel the force. It binds all of us, GRAVITY.

So, back on topic. How about that Mendes guy, huh?

[danslittlefinger]

So, back on topic. How about that Mendes guy, huh?

Yes.
Cheeky little chap isn't he?