Curious about movies coming out on DVD or at the theater? Film Critic Keith Van Sickle answers your movie questions here
May 30, 2008
You see him on 49 News' Good Morning Kansas Tuesdays and Fridays. And, this Friday, May 30, Film Critic Keith Van Sickle will be available online. He'll be taking viewers' feedback and questions during an online discussion about what to watch this summer. Learn what blockbusters are coming out and what movies are already expected to flop as the summer movie season gears up. It's easy to participate. Just sign up for an account and type in your question. Advance questions or comments are encouraged. Or you can submit a question while the chat is taking place. Join a live online discussion at 11:30 a.m. Friday.
Moderator: Hi I'm Lindsey Elliott and I'll be moderating this chat. We're glad to have film critic Keith Van Sickle here to answer you questions. He's a regular guest on KTKA's Good Morning Kansas which starts at 5 a.m. on weekdays. We welcome your questions. Let's get started!
oread: Where do you think the latest Indiana Jones movie rates in the series, in terms of quality?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: I would rate it as the second best in the series tied with The Last Crusade
Moderator: Why do you rate it second best?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: Probably its a nostalgic thing as much a quality one. It was fun, exciting and it didn't have Kate Capshaw in it. Also it is what it is fun, adventure filled and despite the story being partially written by George Lucas it was still good.
espage2183: I am a huge Indiana Jones fan and love the new Crystal Skull movie. Why do you think some people seem disappointed with this one?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: Because its been a long 20 years of waiting and I believe the anticipation was so great that the movie could not have matched it.
oread: The summer movie series is generally known for a bunch of brainless, blockbuster popcorn movies. Do you think any of this summer's fare will have serious chances come award time?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: Also I'm confused because if your looking for Citizen Kane you will be very disappointed but its an action film and a fun one at that. We also get to welcome back a real on screen movie hero and what wrong with that? I will defend this movie because I had a blast with it
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: To this point I believe that technical awards are a possiblity as far as the Oscars go. There is a lot of talk about Heath Ledger possibly for his upcoming role as the Joker in the Dark Knight but until I see it its anybody's guess
gterlizzi: Any special events going on this summer that movie lovers would appreciate?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: Well there will be a huge advanced premiere of The Dark Knight here in Topeka and tickets will be given out on the Good Morning Kansas show in July. Also there is the Kansas City International Film Festival, and the Kansas Museum of History is going to be kicking off their drive in series in June so just go to their web site at kshs.org to check out the schedule. Then there is a beautiful refurbished theater called the Screenland Armour in Kansas City that is worth the trip.
jbrand: Hi Keith. Do production companies and film distributors ever try to influence your opinion of a film with "incentives" (gifts, freebees)? If so, did it work in their favor or against them? Also, who is your favorite film director? Thank you. J. Brand
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: Thanks for the question and yes without mentioning company names studios have been known to offer trips and special incentives to critics for favorable reviews of their products. All critics get press kits to educate them on the film and production notes. I find that my colleagues who do accept gifts are a disgrace to our profession. I would never sell my credibility to my readers and viewers to do such a thing. Also it lowers your standing within you peers as well. My favorite director is without a doubt Martin Scorcese.
Moderator: Why is your favorite director Martin Scorcese?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: His movies are incredibly detailed not only with the story but with the cinematography as well. No director can tell a story or develop characters like Scorcese can. The fact that he only has one Oscar is a joke!
espage2183: Do you think there will be another Indy movie with Harrison Ford?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: There is a rumor that there is one in the works, but thats just speculation. Harrison Ford has stated that he is ready for one more film, but it took 20 years to get the Crystal Skull to theaters so its anybody's guess at this point. It wouldn't be surprising to anyone if it happens.
espage2183: The trailer for The Strangers is vague but intriguing. Any idea what it's about?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: Very little at this point but the trailer is terrific and quite scary. Its got a good cast and as I said a great trailer and I would love to see a quality scary movie this summer. I will see it this weekend for sure and have the review next week.
espage2183: Semi-Pro with Will Ferrell comes out on DVD next week. I enjoyed it as much as Anchorman and more than Blades of Glory. Any idea why it flatlined at the box office?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: I think that people are sadly growing tired of the Will Farrell sports themed movies. I agree I believe its his second funniest movie right behind Anchorman. I do think it has the ability to gain a big cult following once it arrives on DVD next week. Remember DVD is where Anchorman gained it loyal audience
fruzik: I am CRAZY excited about "Son of Rambow." Let's dish. Thoughts on the movie?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: I agree as this little British comedy has the chance to really capture a big audience. Its a small film with a smaller release schedule so movie goers will have to look hard for this little gem. It is playing right now in Kansas City but the theater location escapes me at this time
Moderator: What do you think will be the most popular movie this summer?
Film Critic Keith Van Sickle: Its hard to say but my prediction as far as box-office goes is 1. Indiana Jones 2. Iron Man 3. The Dark Knight 4. Sex and the City 5. Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian And also The Hulk, Kung Fu Panda and the new Pixar movie Wal-E looks strong as well. With so many big movies its a roll of the dice to predict it as this point.
Moderator: Well we are out of time. Thanks for joining our chat. Watch for Keith Van Sickle's movie reviews on KTKA's Good Morning Kansas.
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