#anyways support the writers and the actors on strike by showing the studios how important and in demand their creations are | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

chirpsythismorning · 9 months

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Ted Sarandos tries so hard to be like-able and relatable more than any other studio executive I've ever seen.

Like, look at this dude?

Don't you just want to punch him in the face?

And it gets worse...

He might look friendly and charismatic amongst these familiar faces, but at the end of the day, Ted is just another studio executive who is willing to cut costs wherever he can, in what he sees as loose ends capable of saving Netflix millions, but actually does in fact result in devastating repercussions for real people.

And yet still, I question his plan for all of this, as Ted is behind the company that has changed the way entertainment is consumed in the first place, with their company flourishing as a direct result of the 07-08 writer's strike. At first it was slow, but then it was full speed ahead, with Netflix starting a trend of streaming that upended the entire entertainment industry, essentially forcing everyone to follow suit. This has then brought us to a point where the conditions and compensation for workers do not at all match what is expected of them, because it is all based on an expired business model that no longer applies.

And yet, Ted has chosen the route as a CEO to create this friendly mask of familiarity amongst his talent and in the business as a whole, in a way that makes you want to trust him.

When new productions are coming out, he's in attendance making small talk and gushing in interviews about how important it is to tell all these stories, making it clear he's trying to convey that morality and this idea of doing the right thing, is important to him presumably.

But how can he call himself 'a union man', from 'a union family' and push this moral agenda, if he's going to continue to play one of the biggest roles in this strike, with the ability to solve it swiftly by just meeting the guilds demands, all the while tearing down that moral image entirely in the process by refusing to do so?

Because the thing is, this image of morality is him using human emotions that he knows make people fall in love with movies and TV in the first place. He knows that a lot of the support comes from people who give a fuck about human lives and people being treated fairly, especially now in 2023.

So, why in the hell would he expect the people he is presenting this morality to, as a cornerstone of their mission (manipulation tactic to distract from the true goal: exponential growth of profits...), to just sit by and be okay with the writers and actors and anyone and everyone on these movies/shows sets, to feel like they are being taken advantage of and abused because of his working conditions???

In the scenario Ted wins and the writers lose, Ted STILL loses, because this facade is now overshadowed by resentful workforce and an audience that is going to have a hard time getting behind trusting this company long term, eventually leading to their downfall.

You think people want to watch a show where we know the working conditions were awful, with them being on the cusp of changing that, only to be fucked over and have to go right back to those conditions?

The strike is a double edged sword at this point, but there's no denying these executives (esp charismatic Ted) would be much better off taking the -0.3 annual costs and calling it a day.

I guess it doesn't really matter though, because to Ted and all these other executives, the bottom line for investors will always be short term growth. They care about right now, not the future. If they can keep up the act that everything is going swell and convince their investors (and competitors) that profits went up this quarter and are projected to continue going up in the next one, they're doing their job. Even if that means burning to a crisp later on, so be it. It'll most likely be someone else's problem by then anyways...

Regardless, I look forward to seeing Ted succumbing to his inevitable fate of meeting the guilds demands, all while he himself has spent years building up and fostering this friendly image, encouraging this idea that morality is important to the end goal. Who would have thought Ted?? That your facade would contribute to backfiring in a strike for workers rights, supported heavily by the very public your company has spent the last decade providing content to, that supports that very same message?

#byler #netflix #stranger things #ted sarandos #jo rambles #oh and bob iger!... have you ever heard of a bugs life? or newsies??#congrats. you played yourself #btw i could not find that picture of noah with ted and nina dobrev on his instagram...#though he posted it in april of this year...#i guess he deleted it...#see Ted!?#your talent is turning on you #talent photo ops REVOKED from ted until further notice #in all seriousness #what really grosses me out is the very high likelihood this strike doesn't affect netflix at all the way it does major broadcasters #broadcasters are holding on for dear life all while Netflix and the other giants like Disney and Warner Bros. are totally fine for now #streamers benefit from a 6 month strike in contrast to broadcasters that are running on borrowed time #streaming is what literally led to the publics support for broadcast television to go down hill #you know... the system that allowed people to get residuals #so yeah i think they're ok with holding out until October #and leading up closer to that is when we're actually going to see the studios start making realistic negotiations #live tv has a very high likelihood of being dead after this is all said and done...#2007 all over again #but for real this time.#and then watch!#netflix is gonna try to revert back to a live tv system with ads #going back to a system they tore down #but have no intention of playing by that systems rules to ensure their workforce is protected in ways they've fought for decades before #fucking despicable #everyone has to suffer because these guys benefit from holding out a 6 month strike if it means coming out on top once and for all

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funnythingshere0-blog · 6 years

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Take a Break from the Darkness of the World, and Smile With Our Pick of the Week

New Post has been published on https://funnythingshere.xyz/take-a-break-from-the-darkness-of-the-world-and-smile-with-our-pick-of-the-week/

Take a Break from the Darkness of the World, and Smile With Our Pick of the Week

Plus 13 More New Releases to Watch This Week on Blu-ray/DVD!

Welcome to this week in home video! Click the title to buy a Blu-ray/DVD from Amazon and help support FSR in the process!

Pick of the Week

Savannah Smiles

What is it? Two criminals cross paths with a young runaway and are mistaken for kidnappers.

Why see it? This is one of hell of a sweet movie, and it’s one that has stuck with me over the years as a story of compassion, friendship, and redemption. Young Bridgette Andersen is cute and adorable, but more than that she shows an immense heart and talent. There’s fun here alongside some minor action/suspense, but its core is a story of just how important companionship and human interaction are. Her own life story ended tragically, but the film serves Bridgette well as a reminder of a better and more innocent time.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras: New 2K transfer, documentary, featurette, interview]

The Best

Daphne & Velma

What is it? Before the dog stole all their thunder, two new friends solved mysteries on their own.

Why see it? Scooby Doo isn’t exactly the kind of cartoon you’d expect to have a backstory for its “lesser” characters, but it happened anyway with impressively entertaining results. We meet Daphne and Velma in high school and see them brought together over a mystery involving other students and a wealthy sponsor, and it’s all presented with bright colors, energy, and real wit. It’s a fun and funny movie for young and not-so-young alike that hopefully leads to a whole new franchise. Fans should also seek out director Suzi Yoonessi’s feature debut Dear Lemon Lima (2009) which is fantastic.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras: Featurettes, gag reel]

A Fantastic Woman

What is it? A trans woman struggles to grieve after the death of her lover, but society seems determined to prevent it.

Why see it? Sebastián Lelio’s drama offers a timely look at a sadly timeless issue, and Daniela Vega shines in the lead role. Her character begins the film in love, and after tragedy strikes, she’s forced to face obstacle after obstacle to confirm that love to other people’s satisfaction. There’s a simplicity to it all, but both Vega and her character are such fierce powerhouses offering strength and complexity that the tale becomes highly engaging. Brief moments of fantasy highlight the journey.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras:]

A Fistful of Dollars [KL Studio Classics]

What is it? A Yojimbo remake.

Why see it? Its origin as an Akira Kurosawa “homage” aside, the film finds its own value as a terrific western exploring morality and violence with style, atmosphere, and a memorable Ennio Morricone score. And not for nothing, but it’s also the start of “spaghetti westerns” as we know them and paired Clint Eastwood with Sergio Leone for the first time. Eastwood’s “Man with No Name” is a mysterious presence seemingly more interested in cash than loyalty, and it became a prototype for hundreds of future antiheroes. As they’ve done with a few other classic westerns recently, Kino Lorber presents the film with a beautifully restored picture and numerous extras. One interesting extra here is a prologue added to the film’s network premiere featuring Harry Dean Stanton, an Eastwood double, and a misguided attempt to explain his character’s actions.

[Blu-ray extras: New 4K restoration, commentaries including one by Tim Lucas, interview, Trailers from Hell, outtakes, featurettes, network prologue]

Game Night

What is it? A group of friends sees their calm game night take a turn when one of them is abducted… or is he?

Why see it? This is the best studio comedy in several years, and it’s not even close. The cast is terrific — Jason Bateman, Kyle Chandler, Billy Magnussen, Lamorne Morris, and a stellar Jesse Plemons — with Rachel McAdams killing it and reminding the world that she’s a comic genius, the jokes and gags are smart and numerous, and the direction is remarkably alive and vibrant. Scenes have real energy and visual style, and the script keeps up with sharp story turns and plenty of surprises. It’s just a ridiculously fun time at the movies, and the high replay value (along with the guarantee you’ll want to share it with friends) makes it a movie worth owning.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras: Featurette, gag reel]

Jurassic Park: 25th Anniversary Collection – 4K UltraHD

What is it? Scientists and capitalists think it’s a good idea to create living dinosaurs… four times!

Why see it? A fifth Jurassic Park film is set to open this summer, so a re-issue of past films is to be expected, but happily, rather than simply drop new Blu-rays Universal has upgraded all four existing films to beautiful and often stunning 4K. Steven Spielberg’s original remains the best of the bunch, but all of them display varying degrees of thrills and wonder — and those displays are often jaw-dropping in UltraHD. The discs are loaded with special features, and while none of them are new they still offer up a wealth of detailed information on the franchise’s production.

[4K UltraHD/Blu-ray extras:]

Of Unknown Origin [Scream Factory]

What is it? A Wall Street executive finds the biggest challenge of his life when a persistent rat settles into his fancy condo.

Why see it? There are other rat-focused horror movies, but none are better than George Cosmatos’ early 80s look at obsession and vermin. Peter Weller takes the lead opposite the rat, and the film follows his descent towards madness as the two enter into a battle of wills that threatens to bring the walls down around them. The film walks a fine line between tragic terror and black comedy, and unlike the similarly structured The Vagrant it balances the two pretty damn well. It’s thrilling, funny, and seemingly destined to not end well. Scream Factory’s new Blu looks fantastic, and the commentary featuring director and star is a solid listen.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras: New 2K scan, interviews, commentary]

Vazante

What is it? A young woman in the early 19th century struggles to make a life.

Why see it? The first thing you notice with this black & white beauty is the stunning confidence of Daniela Thomas’ feature debut. Gorgeous cinematography draws viewers into the past, and while pacing is in no rush the characters come to life through their humanity, hope, and misery. The bigger tale being told her is one of colonialism’s effect on culture and women, and while it’s not a film to watch when you’re in the need of some light it’s a film worth watching all the same.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras: Featurettes]

The Rest

The 15:17 to Paris

What is it? The true story of three Americans who helped prevent a terrorist assault while on vacation.

Why see it? Clint Eastwood’s “patriotic” interests have been on display for years now, but his ability to turn it into worthwhile entertainment hits a wall with this absolute turd of a drama. It’s riddled with problems, but the two biggest facing it come down to story and casting. The real event lasted mere moments meaning the dramatic intensity is severely limited. And the three American heroes? They’re playing themselves. These guys deserve praise for their actions, but they are most definitely not actors. Their performances add to the myriad of issues holding the film back from being even remotely interesting, and a flat script sees ridiculous dialogue share the screen with dull flashbacks, bland narratives, and a supporting cast slumming it for a once-great director.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras: Featurettes]

Black Venus [Arrow Academy]

What is it? The true story of an African woman used as an oddity in Victorian London.

Why see it? There’s a stark beauty to Abdellatif Kechiche’s biographical tale of Saartjie Baartman, but it’s constantly at war with the oppression and misery suffered throughout by its lead character. At 162 minutes it becomes something of a hard watch as there’s little respite from the abuse and ignorance she’s subjected to on a daily basis. She’s a curiosity to the people around her, both the elites and the dregs who see her at a freak show, and that becomes the driving force within the film itself — a curiosity as to whether or not she’ll escape this life. It’s a heartbreaking journey, so venture in at your own risk.

[Blu-ray extras: Featurette]

Death Smiles on a Murderer [Arrow Video]

What is it? A woman returns from the dead for vengeance.

Why see it? Joe D’Amato’s filmography is a varied thing, but he’s best known as the director of numerous genre efforts filled with all manner of sleaze and terror including Beyond the Darkness, Porno Holocaust, and several Emanuelle films. This early film features both bloodletting and T&A, but it gives more effort towards atmosphere and mood than his later movies. It’s a story of cruelty that comes back to haunt the cruel, quite literally, and it features a rather sedate performance by Klaus Kinski too.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras: New 2K restoration, commentary by Tim Lucas, interviews, visual essay]

Early Man

What is it? A caveman fights back against the Bronze Age.

Why see it? Nick Park’s (Chicken Run, Shaun the Sheep) features as director and/or writer bring joy through an animation style less frequently used than the usual CG or even hand-drawn, but while they’re less common they’re often far more affecting because of their tangible nature. (Or maybe that’s just me.) His latest is a fun romp, and while many of the jokes will land best with European football fans (and British locals in general) more than enough appeal more broadly to those of us who just enjoy a good underdog story. Toss in some goofy visual gags and a rousing football game to determine it all and you have a solid feature for the whole family.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras: Featurettes]

I Kill Giants

What is it? A girl believes her town is due for an attack by a giant.

Why see it? Fans of the recent A Monster Calls will enjoy this drama with a tease of fantasy as its story feels very reminiscent as a pre-teen with a rich imagination struggles with bullies at school and a sick parent at home. As YA adventures go this one leans towards the dramatic, but the performances make it work even if it grows a bit heavy-handed at times. There’s power to the ending, though, and it’s ultimately an important tale for kids and young teens.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras: Featurettes]

Red Sparrow

What is it? A young Russian woman is trained to be a saucy spy (of sorts) but runs into trouble.

Why see it? Jennifer Lawrence takes center stage as the “sparrow” while Joel Edgerton plays a CIA agent who crosses her path. Performances and visuals are strong across the board, but at 140 minutes the film is something of a cruel and slow-moving slog. Action is minimal — it’s no Atomic Blonde — and an excessive amount of time is spent highlighting mean, degrading methods used to keep people in line. It wraps up nicely, but the journey is a challenge. It basically comes down to the performances and the period feel, but if you’re looking for more than that, say a fresh take or engaging story, you’re out of luck.

[Blu-ray/DVD extras: Featurettes, commentary, deleted scenes]

Wild at Heart [Shout Select]

What is it? Young lovers go on the run.

Why see it? David Lynch’s films are almost always strange, stylistic tales, and this story of forbidden love, gruesome violence, hazy sex, and a road trip is no exception. Nicolas Cage and Laura Dern headline, and while the former channels Elvis for the umpteenth time of his career Dern stands apart with an electric performance capturing youthful abandon. That said, as with most Lynch films, this one just doesn’t hold together for me. His style of excess and exaggeration leaves me cold. I’m clearly in the minority, though, so for the rest of you this new Blu-ray is a recommended pickup.

[Blu-ray extras: Interviews, deleted scenes, documentary, featurettes]

Also out this week:

Beyond the Hills [Criterion Collection], The Bloodthirsty Trilogy, Frank & Eva, Graduation [Criterion Collection], Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters [Criterion Collection], Night Zero, The Party, Swung, The Vampire and the Ballerina [Scream Factory]

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