1. Titanic (1997)
(Collections: $1,835,300,000)
Titanic is a 1997 American romantic drama film directed, written, and co-produced by James Cameron about the sinking of the RMS Titanic. It stars Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio as Rose DeWitt Bukater and Jack Dawson respectively, members of different social classes who fall in love aboard the ill-fated 1912 maiden voyage of the ship. Bill Paxton plays Brock Lovett, the leader of a treasure hunting expedition, while Gloria Stuart has the role of the elderly Rose, who narrates the story in 1996. The film was both a critical and commercial success, winning eleven Academy Awards including Best Picture, and became the highest grossing film of all time, with a total worldwide gross of US$1.8 billion.Story and Plot Point
In 1996, treasure hunter Brock Lovett and his team explore the wreck of the RMS Titanic searching for a necklace called “the Heart of the Ocean”. They discover a drawing of a young woman reclining nude, wearing the Heart of the Ocean, dated the day the Titanic sank. News of this drawing on television attracts the interest of the woman in question, Rose Dawson Calvert, now 100, who claims to be the nude woman in the drawing. She and her granddaughter Lizzy visit Lovett on his ship, and recalls her memories as 17-year-old Rose DeWitt Bukater aboard the Titanic. In 1912, young Rose boards the departing ship with the upper-class passengers and her mother, Ruth DeWitt Bukater, and her fiancé, Caledon Hockley. Distraught and frustrated with her engagement to Cal and controlled life, Rose attempts to commit suicide, but a drifter and artist named Jack Dawson intervenes. They strike up a tentative friendship as he shares stories of his adventures traveling and sketching, and their bond deepens when they leave the first-class formal dinner for a much livelier gathering in third-class.
Cal is informed of her partying in the steerage and forbids Rose to meet Jack again. Eventually, Jack confronts Rose alone, but she is inclined to ignore their growing affection because of her engagement and responsibilities. However, Rose later changes her mind and decides to offer her heart to Jack in a forbidden romance. As a sign of her affection, she asks him to sketch her nude wearing only the "Heart of the Ocean." Afterwards, the two run away from Hockley's manservant, Spicer Lovejoy, and they go below decks to the cargo hold. They enter a Renault traveling car and have sex, before escaping up to the ship's forward well deck. Rose decides that she will leave the ship with Jack. They then witness the ship's collision with an iceberg. Cal discovers Rose's nude drawing. He plots revenge, deciding to frame Jack for stealing the "Heart of the Ocean", and bribes the master-at-arms to handcuff and trap Jack in a room. Although Rose is at first indecisive, she later runs away from Cal, risking her chances of getting on a lifeboat with her mother, in order to find and rescue Jack.Rose manages to free Jack with a fire axe, and finds that the third-class passengers are trapped below decks. Frustrated, Jack breaks through a gate, allowing Rose and others to make their way to the boat deck. Cal and Jack manage to persuade Rose to board a lifeboat, but after realizing that she cannot leave Jack, Rose jumps back on the ship and reunites with Jack in the ship's first class staircase. Infuriated, Cal takes Lovejoy's pistol and chases Jack and Rose down the decks and into the first class dining saloon. After running out of ammunition, he angrily shouts at them to die and realizes that he unintentionally gave Rose the diamond. Hockley returns to the boat deck and gets aboard Collapsible A by pretending to look after an abandoned child. This is one of only two lifeboats remaining on the ship. Although Jack and Rose manage to avoid Cal's fury, they find that the lifeboats are gone. With no other options, they decide to head aft and stay on the ship for as long as possible before it sinks completely. Eventually, the ship breaks in half and begins its final descent, washing everyone into the freezing Atlantic waters.
Jack and Rose are separated under the water but shortly reunite. Around them, well over a thousand people are dying painfully from hypothermia. Meanwhile, in Lifeboat 6, Margaret "Molly" Brown tries to convince Quartermaster Robert Hichens to go back and rescue people, as there is plenty of room, but he refuses, thinking the boat will be swamped. Jack manages to grab hold of a wall paneling, and gets Rose to lie on it. While lying on the wall paneling, Jack makes Rose promise that, whatever happens, she must get out alive. When Fifth Officer Harold Lowe returns with an empty Lifeboat 14 to rescue several people from the water, Rose tries to wake Jack, but then realizes that he has died in the freezing water. Upon this realization, she begins to lose hope and wants to stay there to die with Jack, but remembers her promise. She does her best to call out to Lowe, but she's hoarse and he does not hear her and rows away, unknowingly leaving her to die. Still remembering her promise to "never to let go," Rose manages to unclasp Jack's frozen hand from her own, letting his body disappear into the sea. Throwing herself into the water, Rose takes a whistle from a dead Chief Officer Henry Wilde and blows it, and is heard. She is pulled to safety, joining the five other survivors from the water, and is taken on board the RMS Carpathia rescue ship. On the Carpathia's deck, Rose notices Cal looking for her. When he turns in her direction, she covers her head and turns away, not letting him see her face. This is the last time she ever sees Hockley. Upon arrival in New York City, Rose registers her name as "Rose Dawson" and presumably starts life on her own.
After completing her story, the elderly Rose alone travels to the stern of Lovett's ship. After she steps onto the railing, it is revealed she had the "Heart of the Ocean" all along, as Cal had slipped it into his coat that he gave to her. She then drops the diamond into the water, sending it to join the remains of the single most important event of her life. Rose lies in a bed, next to photographs of her life's achievements, as the shot pans across her into darkness. The film ends with a vision of young Rose reuniting with Jack at the Grand Staircase, surrounded by those who perished with Jack on the ship. They embrace, and the people on the staircase start to applaud. It is left up to the viewer to dictate the meaning of the ending, specifically whether it is truly a vision or Rose reuniting with her love in the afterlife.
Cast
Kate Winslet as Rose DeWitt Bukater: A first-class socialite, seventeen-year-old Rose is forced to become engaged to Caledon Hockley so she and her mother can maintain their high status after the death of her father. Feeling trapped, Rose becomes suicidal, but she soon discovers a whole new lease on life when she meets Jack Dawson.
Leonardo DiCaprio as Jack Dawson: A penniless artist who travels the world, Jack wins tickets to the RMS Titanic in a card game. He is attracted to Rose's beauty and convinces her out of an attempted suicide. His saving of her life brings him into first-class society for a night, and he shows her a carefree way of life of which she had often fantasized but never realized of doing.
Billy Zane as Caledon "Cal" Nathan Hockley: The quintessential arrogant and snobbish first-class man, Rose's fiancé Cal becomes increasingly embarrassed, jealous, and cruel over Rose's friendship with Jack. He gives Rose the diamond The Heart of the Ocean as a reminder of her feelings for him.
Frances Fisher as Ruth DeWitt Bukater: Rose's widowed mother, who is marrying her off to ensure their high-class status. She loves her daughter but believes marriage to Cal is the right thing to do. The epitome of the shallowness and hypocrisies of high-class society, she scorns Jack, even though he saved her daughter's life.
Kathy Bates as Margaret Tobin "Molly" Brown: Brown is depicted as being frowned upon by other first-class women, including Ruth, as "new money" due to her sudden wealth. She is friendly to Jack and gives him a dining-suit when he is invited to dinner in the first-class saloon.
Victor Garber as Thomas Andrews, Jr.: The ship's designer, Andrews is depicted during the sinking of the ship as standing next to the clock in the first class smoking room. He gives Rose a life jacket so she doesn't drown in the icy water, and is last seen looking at his watch and adjusting the clock in the same room, accepting his fate. Bernard Hill as Captain Edward John Smith: The film depicts the captain of the RMS Titanic as retiring to his quarters when the ship hits the iceberg. He goes into the wheelhouse as the ship sinks, dying when the icy water bursts through the windows.
Jonathan Hyde as J. Bruce Ismay: Ismay is portrayed as an ignorant first-class rich man, who does not know who Sigmund Freud is. He cowardly takes the opportunity to get into a lifeboat, and looks back, guilt-stricken, as his ship sinks.
David Warner as Spicer Lovejoy: An ex-Pinkerton constable, Lovejoy is Cal's English valet and bodyguard who keeps an eye on Rose and is suspicious of the circumstances of Jack's rescue of her. According to Rose, he was hired by Cal's father to "keep an eye on his little boy." He accompanies Cal, Rose and Ruth on the RMS Titanic and tells the porters where to put their luggage.
Danny Nucci as Fabrizio De Rossi: Jack's Italian best friend who comes aboard the RMS Titanic after winning a card game.
Jason Barry as Tommy Ryan: An Irish third-class passenger who befriends Jack and Fabrizio. He also makes a comment to Jack on his unlikely chance to get next to Rose.
Bill Paxton as Brock Lovett: A treasure hunter looking for The Heart of the Ocean in the wreck of the RMS Titanic in the present. Time and funding to his expedition is running out.
Gloria Stuart plays the 100-year old Rose Dawson Calvert: She comes to give Lovett information regarding The Heart of the Ocean, after he discovers a nude drawing of her in the wreck of the RMS Titanic. She narrates the story of her time aboard the ship, mentioning Jack for the first time since.
Suzy Amis as Lizzy Calvert: Rose's granddaughter, who accompanies her on her visit to Lovett. In a deleted scene of the film, she angrily confronts Lovett and warns him not to browbeat Rose.
Lewis Abernathy as Lewis Bodine: Lovett's geeky friend, who expresses doubt at first whether Rose is telling the truth. He also explains to Rose how the RMS Titanic sank with a 3-D animated film.
Eric Braeden as Colonel John Jacob Astor IV: A first-class passenger whom Rose calls "the richest man on the ship". The film depicts Astor and his 19-year-old wife Madeleire as being introduced to Jack by Rose in the first-class saloon.
Bernard Fox as Colonel Archibald Gracie: The film depicts Gracie making a comment to Cal that "women and machinery don't mix," and congratulating Jack for saving Rose from committing suicide.
Ewan Stewart as First Officer William McMaster Murdoch: The film's most controversial depiction, Murdoch shoots and kills men who try to enter a lifeboat under Smith's order of women and children first, before committing suicide out of guilt.
Jonathan Phillips as Second Officer Charles Lightoller: The film depicts Lightoller arguing with Captain Smith that it would be difficult to see the icebergs with no breaking water.
Ioan Gruffudd as Fifth Officer Harold Lowe: The only ship's officer who led a lifeboat to retrieve survivors of the sinking. The film depicts Lowe rescuing Rose from the freezing ocean after finding her floating on a door.
Several crew members of the Akademik Mstislav Keldysh appear in the film, including Anatoly Sagalevitch, creator of the Mir submersibles. Anders Falk, who filmed a documentary about the film's sets for the Titanic Historical Society, cameoed in the film as a Swedish immigrant who Jack Dawson meets when he enters his cabin, and Ed and Karen Kamuda, then President and Vice President of the Society, were extras on the film.
Kate Winslet as Rose DeWitt Bukater: A first-class socialite, seventeen-year-old Rose is forced to become engaged to Caledon Hockley so she and her mother can maintain their high status after the death of her father. Feeling trapped, Rose becomes suicidal, but she soon discovers a whole new lease on life when she meets Jack Dawson.
Leonardo DiCaprio as Jack Dawson: A penniless artist who travels the world, Jack wins tickets to the RMS Titanic in a card game. He is attracted to Rose's beauty and convinces her out of an attempted suicide. His saving of her life brings him into first-class society for a night, and he shows her a carefree way of life of which she had often fantasized but never realized of doing.
Billy Zane as Caledon "Cal" Nathan Hockley: The quintessential arrogant and snobbish first-class man, Rose's fiancé Cal becomes increasingly embarrassed, jealous, and cruel over Rose's friendship with Jack. He gives Rose the diamond The Heart of the Ocean as a reminder of her feelings for him.
Frances Fisher as Ruth DeWitt Bukater: Rose's widowed mother, who is marrying her off to ensure their high-class status. She loves her daughter but believes marriage to Cal is the right thing to do. The epitome of the shallowness and hypocrisies of high-class society, she scorns Jack, even though he saved her daughter's life.
Kathy Bates as Margaret Tobin "Molly" Brown: Brown is depicted as being frowned upon by other first-class women, including Ruth, as "new money" due to her sudden wealth. She is friendly to Jack and gives him a dining-suit when he is invited to dinner in the first-class saloon.
Victor Garber as Thomas Andrews, Jr.: The ship's designer, Andrews is depicted during the sinking of the ship as standing next to the clock in the first class smoking room. He gives Rose a life jacket so she doesn't drown in the icy water, and is last seen looking at his watch and adjusting the clock in the same room, accepting his fate. Bernard Hill as Captain Edward John Smith: The film depicts the captain of the RMS Titanic as retiring to his quarters when the ship hits the iceberg. He goes into the wheelhouse as the ship sinks, dying when the icy water bursts through the windows.
Jonathan Hyde as J. Bruce Ismay: Ismay is portrayed as an ignorant first-class rich man, who does not know who Sigmund Freud is. He cowardly takes the opportunity to get into a lifeboat, and looks back, guilt-stricken, as his ship sinks.
David Warner as Spicer Lovejoy: An ex-Pinkerton constable, Lovejoy is Cal's English valet and bodyguard who keeps an eye on Rose and is suspicious of the circumstances of Jack's rescue of her. According to Rose, he was hired by Cal's father to "keep an eye on his little boy." He accompanies Cal, Rose and Ruth on the RMS Titanic and tells the porters where to put their luggage.
Danny Nucci as Fabrizio De Rossi: Jack's Italian best friend who comes aboard the RMS Titanic after winning a card game.
Jason Barry as Tommy Ryan: An Irish third-class passenger who befriends Jack and Fabrizio. He also makes a comment to Jack on his unlikely chance to get next to Rose.
Bill Paxton as Brock Lovett: A treasure hunter looking for The Heart of the Ocean in the wreck of the RMS Titanic in the present. Time and funding to his expedition is running out.
Gloria Stuart plays the 100-year old Rose Dawson Calvert: She comes to give Lovett information regarding The Heart of the Ocean, after he discovers a nude drawing of her in the wreck of the RMS Titanic. She narrates the story of her time aboard the ship, mentioning Jack for the first time since.
Suzy Amis as Lizzy Calvert: Rose's granddaughter, who accompanies her on her visit to Lovett. In a deleted scene of the film, she angrily confronts Lovett and warns him not to browbeat Rose.
Lewis Abernathy as Lewis Bodine: Lovett's geeky friend, who expresses doubt at first whether Rose is telling the truth. He also explains to Rose how the RMS Titanic sank with a 3-D animated film.
Eric Braeden as Colonel John Jacob Astor IV: A first-class passenger whom Rose calls "the richest man on the ship". The film depicts Astor and his 19-year-old wife Madeleire as being introduced to Jack by Rose in the first-class saloon.
Bernard Fox as Colonel Archibald Gracie: The film depicts Gracie making a comment to Cal that "women and machinery don't mix," and congratulating Jack for saving Rose from committing suicide.
Ewan Stewart as First Officer William McMaster Murdoch: The film's most controversial depiction, Murdoch shoots and kills men who try to enter a lifeboat under Smith's order of women and children first, before committing suicide out of guilt.
Jonathan Phillips as Second Officer Charles Lightoller: The film depicts Lightoller arguing with Captain Smith that it would be difficult to see the icebergs with no breaking water.
Ioan Gruffudd as Fifth Officer Harold Lowe: The only ship's officer who led a lifeboat to retrieve survivors of the sinking. The film depicts Lowe rescuing Rose from the freezing ocean after finding her floating on a door.
Several crew members of the Akademik Mstislav Keldysh appear in the film, including Anatoly Sagalevitch, creator of the Mir submersibles. Anders Falk, who filmed a documentary about the film's sets for the Titanic Historical Society, cameoed in the film as a Swedish immigrant who Jack Dawson meets when he enters his cabin, and Ed and Karen Kamuda, then President and Vice President of the Society, were extras on the film.
Production
James Cameron was fascinated by shipwrecks, including the RMS Titanic, and wrote a treatment for a film. He described the sinking of the RMS Titanic: as "like a great novel that really happened". Yet over time he felt that the event had become a mere morality tale, and described making the film as putting the audience in an experience of living history. Cameron described a love story as the most engaging part of a story. As the likeable Jack and Rose had their love blossom and eventually destroyed, the audience would mourn the loss. Lastly, Cameron created a modern framing of the romance with an elderly Rose, making the history palpable and poignant. The treasure hunter Brock Lovett is meant to represent those who never connected with the human element of the tragedy.
He met with 20th Century Fox, and convinced them to make a film based on the publicity afforded by shooting the wreck itself and organized a dive to the wreck of the Titanic over two years. The crew shot in the Atlantic Ocean twelve times in 1995, shooting during eleven of those occasions, and actually spent more time with the ship than its passengers. Afterwards, Cameron began writing a screenplay. Cameron asked Claire Danes to play Rose, but she was exhausted after Baz Luhrmann's William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet, and found Titanic too similar. Billy Crudup and Stephen Dorff were considered for the role of Jack.
Harland and Wolff, the RMS Titanic's builders, opened their private archives to the crew, sharing blueprints that were thought lost. For the ship's interiors, production designer Peter Lamont's team looked for artifacts from the era, though the newness of the ship meant every prop had to be made from scratch. Twentieth Century Fox acquired forty acres of waterfront south of Playas de Rosarito, and building of a new studio began on May 31, 1996. A seventeen-million gallon tank was built for the exterior of the reconstructed ship, providing 270 degrees of ocean view. The ship was built to full scale, but Lamont removed redundant sections on the superstructure and forward well deck for the ship to fit in the tank, with the remaining sections filled with digital models. The lifeboats and funnels were shrunk by ten percent. The boat deck and A-deck were working sets, but the rest of the ship was just steel plating. Within was a fifty-feet lifting platform for the ship to tilt during the sinking sequences. Towering above was a 162 feet tall tower crane on 600-feet of railtrack, acting as a combined construction, lighting and camera platform. After shooting the sinking scenes, the ship was then dismantled and sold for scrap metal to cover budgetary costs.
Filming
The modern day scenes were shot on the Akademik Mstislav Keldysh in July 1996. It was during this shoot that someone sprinkled phencyclidine (PCP) into the crew's dinner, affecting many including Cameron, and sending several dozen of them to the hospital. The person behind the prank was never caught. Principal photography for Titanic began in September 1996 at the newly-built Fox Baja Studios. The shot scenes on the poop deck was built on a hinge which could rise from zero to ninety degrees in a few seconds as the ship's stern rose during sinking. For the safety of the stuntmen, many props were made of foam rubber. By November 15, they were shooting the boarding scenes. Cameron chose to build his RMS Titanic on the starboard side as study of weather data showed prevailing north-to-south wind that blew the funnel smoke aft and gave it the look of sailing, but this posed a problem for shooting the ship's departure from Southampton: it was docked on its port side. Writing on props and costumes had to be reversed, and if someone walked to their right in the script, they had to walk left. In post-production the film was flipped to the correct direction.
Filming Titanic was an arduous experience for all involved. The schedule was intended to last 138 days but grew to 160 - twenty days shy of six months. Many cast members came down with colds, flu or kidney infections after spending hours in cold water, including Kate Winslet. Several left and three stuntmen broke their bones, but the Screen Actors Guild decided, following an investigation, that nothing was inherently unsafe about the set. Cameron never apologised for running his sets like a military campaign, although he admitted, "I'm demanding, and I'm demanding on my crew. In terms of being kind of militaresque, I think there's an element of that in dealing with thousands of extras and big logistics and keeping people safe. I think you have to have a fairly strict methodology in dealing with a large number of people." After almost drowning, chipping an elbow bone and getting the flu, Winslet decided she wouldn't work with Cameron again unless she earned "a lot of money." She admitted Cameron was a nice man, but had too much of a temper.
James Cameron was fascinated by shipwrecks, including the RMS Titanic, and wrote a treatment for a film. He described the sinking of the RMS Titanic: as "like a great novel that really happened". Yet over time he felt that the event had become a mere morality tale, and described making the film as putting the audience in an experience of living history. Cameron described a love story as the most engaging part of a story. As the likeable Jack and Rose had their love blossom and eventually destroyed, the audience would mourn the loss. Lastly, Cameron created a modern framing of the romance with an elderly Rose, making the history palpable and poignant. The treasure hunter Brock Lovett is meant to represent those who never connected with the human element of the tragedy.
He met with 20th Century Fox, and convinced them to make a film based on the publicity afforded by shooting the wreck itself and organized a dive to the wreck of the Titanic over two years. The crew shot in the Atlantic Ocean twelve times in 1995, shooting during eleven of those occasions, and actually spent more time with the ship than its passengers. Afterwards, Cameron began writing a screenplay. Cameron asked Claire Danes to play Rose, but she was exhausted after Baz Luhrmann's William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet, and found Titanic too similar. Billy Crudup and Stephen Dorff were considered for the role of Jack.
Harland and Wolff, the RMS Titanic's builders, opened their private archives to the crew, sharing blueprints that were thought lost. For the ship's interiors, production designer Peter Lamont's team looked for artifacts from the era, though the newness of the ship meant every prop had to be made from scratch. Twentieth Century Fox acquired forty acres of waterfront south of Playas de Rosarito, and building of a new studio began on May 31, 1996. A seventeen-million gallon tank was built for the exterior of the reconstructed ship, providing 270 degrees of ocean view. The ship was built to full scale, but Lamont removed redundant sections on the superstructure and forward well deck for the ship to fit in the tank, with the remaining sections filled with digital models. The lifeboats and funnels were shrunk by ten percent. The boat deck and A-deck were working sets, but the rest of the ship was just steel plating. Within was a fifty-feet lifting platform for the ship to tilt during the sinking sequences. Towering above was a 162 feet tall tower crane on 600-feet of railtrack, acting as a combined construction, lighting and camera platform. After shooting the sinking scenes, the ship was then dismantled and sold for scrap metal to cover budgetary costs.
Filming
The modern day scenes were shot on the Akademik Mstislav Keldysh in July 1996. It was during this shoot that someone sprinkled phencyclidine (PCP) into the crew's dinner, affecting many including Cameron, and sending several dozen of them to the hospital. The person behind the prank was never caught. Principal photography for Titanic began in September 1996 at the newly-built Fox Baja Studios. The shot scenes on the poop deck was built on a hinge which could rise from zero to ninety degrees in a few seconds as the ship's stern rose during sinking. For the safety of the stuntmen, many props were made of foam rubber. By November 15, they were shooting the boarding scenes. Cameron chose to build his RMS Titanic on the starboard side as study of weather data showed prevailing north-to-south wind that blew the funnel smoke aft and gave it the look of sailing, but this posed a problem for shooting the ship's departure from Southampton: it was docked on its port side. Writing on props and costumes had to be reversed, and if someone walked to their right in the script, they had to walk left. In post-production the film was flipped to the correct direction.
Filming Titanic was an arduous experience for all involved. The schedule was intended to last 138 days but grew to 160 - twenty days shy of six months. Many cast members came down with colds, flu or kidney infections after spending hours in cold water, including Kate Winslet. Several left and three stuntmen broke their bones, but the Screen Actors Guild decided, following an investigation, that nothing was inherently unsafe about the set. Cameron never apologised for running his sets like a military campaign, although he admitted, "I'm demanding, and I'm demanding on my crew. In terms of being kind of militaresque, I think there's an element of that in dealing with thousands of extras and big logistics and keeping people safe. I think you have to have a fairly strict methodology in dealing with a large number of people." After almost drowning, chipping an elbow bone and getting the flu, Winslet decided she wouldn't work with Cameron again unless she earned "a lot of money." She admitted Cameron was a nice man, but had too much of a temper.
Effects
An enclosed five-million gallon tank was used for sinking interiors, in which the entire set could be tilted into the water. To sink the Grand Staircase, ninety-thousand gallons of water were dumped into the set as it was lowered into the tank. Unexpectedly, the waterfall ripped the staircase from its steel-reinforced foundations, though no one was hurt. The 744-foot long exterior of the RMS Titanic had its first half lowered into the tank, but being the heaviest part of the ship meant it acted as a shock absorber against the water. To get the set into the water, Cameron had much of the set emptied and even smashed some of the promenade windows himself. After submerging the Dining Saloon, three days were spent shooting Lovett's ROV traversing the wreck in the present. The post-sinking scenes in the freezing Atlantic were shot in a 350,000 gallon tank, where the frozen corpses were created by applying a powder on actors that crystallized when exposed to water, and wax was coated on hair and clothes.
Cameron wanted to push the boundary of special effects with his film, and enlisted Digital Domain to continue the breakthroughs on digital technology the director pioneered on The Abyss and Terminator 2: Judgment Day. Previous films about the RMS Titanic shot water in slow motion, which did not look wholly convincing. He encouraged them to shoot their 45-foot long miniature of the ship as if "we're making a commercial for the White Star Line." Afterward, digital water and smoke were added, as were extras captured on a motion capture stage. Visual effects supervisor Rob Legato scanned the faces of many actors, including himself and his children, for the digital extras and stuntmen. There was also a 65-foot long model of the ship's stern that could break in two repeatedly, the only miniature to be used in water. For scenes set in the ship's engines, footage of the SS Jeremiah O'Brien's engines were composited with miniature support frames and actors shot against greenscreen. To save money, the First Class Lounge was a miniature set incorporated into a greenscreen backdrop.
Editing
During the first assembly cut, Cameron had a major problem with the original ending. Cameron felt at this point the audience no longer cared about Brock Lovett and cut his resolution out. In this ending, Brock sees Old Rose preparing to drop the necklace into the ocean and assumes she's going to jump. After he and Lizzy stop her, she reveals that she had the Heart of the Ocean diamond all along, but never sold it for money, as it reminded her of Cal too much. She tells him that life is priceless and throws the diamond into the ocean, but she does let him hold it. Accepting that treasure is worthless, he starts to laugh at his stupidity. Lewis Bodine, upset that they almost had the jackpot, yells "That really sucks, lady!" Brock then falls for Lizzy, and Rose goes back to sleep, completing the ending shown in the film. Cameron did not want to disrupt the emotional mood after the Titanic's sinking, and found the resolution too neat and humorous.
During his first test screening, Cameron felt that the preview audience liked the film, but they did not really enjoy a nine minute chase/fight scene written to give the film a bit of suspense and for Jack to give Lovejoy his comeuppance, but the test audiences stated it would be unrealistic to risk one's life for wealth. In this scene, Cal offers to give Lovejoy, his valet, the Heart of the Ocean if he can kill Jack and Rose, and Lovejoy goes after the lovers in the sinking First Class Dining Room. Just as they are about to escape him, Rose drops a plate that alerts him to her, but Jack attacks him and smashes his head against a glass window (explaining where he got the gash on his head), in revenge for framing him for the "theft" of the necklace. Cameron cut this scene for time constraints.
An enclosed five-million gallon tank was used for sinking interiors, in which the entire set could be tilted into the water. To sink the Grand Staircase, ninety-thousand gallons of water were dumped into the set as it was lowered into the tank. Unexpectedly, the waterfall ripped the staircase from its steel-reinforced foundations, though no one was hurt. The 744-foot long exterior of the RMS Titanic had its first half lowered into the tank, but being the heaviest part of the ship meant it acted as a shock absorber against the water. To get the set into the water, Cameron had much of the set emptied and even smashed some of the promenade windows himself. After submerging the Dining Saloon, three days were spent shooting Lovett's ROV traversing the wreck in the present. The post-sinking scenes in the freezing Atlantic were shot in a 350,000 gallon tank, where the frozen corpses were created by applying a powder on actors that crystallized when exposed to water, and wax was coated on hair and clothes.
Cameron wanted to push the boundary of special effects with his film, and enlisted Digital Domain to continue the breakthroughs on digital technology the director pioneered on The Abyss and Terminator 2: Judgment Day. Previous films about the RMS Titanic shot water in slow motion, which did not look wholly convincing. He encouraged them to shoot their 45-foot long miniature of the ship as if "we're making a commercial for the White Star Line." Afterward, digital water and smoke were added, as were extras captured on a motion capture stage. Visual effects supervisor Rob Legato scanned the faces of many actors, including himself and his children, for the digital extras and stuntmen. There was also a 65-foot long model of the ship's stern that could break in two repeatedly, the only miniature to be used in water. For scenes set in the ship's engines, footage of the SS Jeremiah O'Brien's engines were composited with miniature support frames and actors shot against greenscreen. To save money, the First Class Lounge was a miniature set incorporated into a greenscreen backdrop.
Editing
During the first assembly cut, Cameron had a major problem with the original ending. Cameron felt at this point the audience no longer cared about Brock Lovett and cut his resolution out. In this ending, Brock sees Old Rose preparing to drop the necklace into the ocean and assumes she's going to jump. After he and Lizzy stop her, she reveals that she had the Heart of the Ocean diamond all along, but never sold it for money, as it reminded her of Cal too much. She tells him that life is priceless and throws the diamond into the ocean, but she does let him hold it. Accepting that treasure is worthless, he starts to laugh at his stupidity. Lewis Bodine, upset that they almost had the jackpot, yells "That really sucks, lady!" Brock then falls for Lizzy, and Rose goes back to sleep, completing the ending shown in the film. Cameron did not want to disrupt the emotional mood after the Titanic's sinking, and found the resolution too neat and humorous.
During his first test screening, Cameron felt that the preview audience liked the film, but they did not really enjoy a nine minute chase/fight scene written to give the film a bit of suspense and for Jack to give Lovejoy his comeuppance, but the test audiences stated it would be unrealistic to risk one's life for wealth. In this scene, Cal offers to give Lovejoy, his valet, the Heart of the Ocean if he can kill Jack and Rose, and Lovejoy goes after the lovers in the sinking First Class Dining Room. Just as they are about to escape him, Rose drops a plate that alerts him to her, but Jack attacks him and smashes his head against a glass window (explaining where he got the gash on his head), in revenge for framing him for the "theft" of the necklace. Cameron cut this scene for time constraints.
Historical accuracy
James Cameron wanted to honor the people who died during the sinking, and he spent six months fully researching what happened, creating a timeline of all the Titanic's crew and passengers.
In one controversial scene, First Officer William Murdoch, played by Ewan Stewart, is shown fatally shooting some passengers during the frenzy to get to the lifeboats. Ashamed of what he has done, he commits suicide. When his nephew Scott Murdoch saw the film, he objected to his uncle's portrayal as inaccurate and damaging to Murdoch's heroic reputation, considering that he did try to get a number of passengers off. A few months later, Fox Vice-president Scott Neeson went to Dalbeattie, where Murdoch lived, to deliver a personal apology, and also presented a £5000 donation to Dalbeattie High School to boost the school's William Murdoch Memorial Prize. Cameron apologized on the DVD commentary, but noted that there were officers who fired gunshots to follow the "women and children first" policy.
Release
Paramount Pictures and Twentieth Century Fox financed Titanic, and expected James Cameron to complete the film for a release on July 2, 1997. With production delays, Paramount pushed back the release date to December 19, 1997. The film premiered on November 1, 1997, at the Tokyo International Film Festival, where reaction was described as "tepid" by the New York Times.
Box office
The film received steady attendance after opening in North America on December 19, 1997. By Sunday that same weekend, theaters were beginning to sell out. The film debuted with $28,638,131. By New Year's Day, Titanic had increased in popularity and theaters continued selling out. After it was released, it stayed at #1 for 15 consecutive weeks in the U.S. box office. By March 1998, it was the first film to earn more than $1 billion worldwide. The movie stayed in theaters for over 8 months. Some theaters in South Africa ran it for longer than a year.
Titanic holds the record for the highest-grossing film of all time in North America, with $600 million. The previous North American record holder, Star Wars (another 20th Century Fox film), earned a total of $461 million. Adjusted for inflation, it is in sixth place. The film also holds the record as the highest-grossing movie of all time, worldwide, with $1.8 billion. The second-place worldwide holder, Return of the King, is over $700 million short of Titanic's record.
There has been word of a re-release of Titanic, due to its successful original run, as well as the advances that could be made in the special effects and digital enhancement presentation. Titanic's director, James Cameron, is said to be considering a re-release of the film in digital 3-D.
Awards
Titanic began its awards sweep starting with the Golden Globes, winning four, including Best Motion Picture (Drama), Best Director, Best Original Score, and Best Song. Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Gloria Stuart, and James Cameron's screenplay were also nominees but lost. It won the ACE "Eddie" Award, ASC Award, Art Directors Guild Award, Cinema Audio Society Award, Screen Actors Guild Awards, (Best Supporting Actress Gloria Stuart), The Directors Guild of America Award, and Broadcast Film Critics Association Award (Best Director James Cameron), and The Producer Guild of America Awards. It was also nominated for ten BAFTA awards, including Best Film and Director.
It tied All About Eve for having the most Oscar nominations in history, with 14. It won Best Picture and Best Director. It also picked up best costume design, visual effects, sound, sound effects, original dramatic score, film editing, song, art direction, and cinematography. Kate Winslet, Gloria Stuart and the make-up artists were the three nominees that failed to win. James Cameron's original screenplay and Leonardo DiCaprio were not nominees. It was the second movie to win eleven Academy Awards, after Ben-Hur. Return of the King would also match this record in 2004, with its 11 wins.
The ending credits song also won the Grammy Awards for Best Song Written Specifically for a Motion Picture or for Television. The film also won Best Male Performance for Leonardo DiCaprio and Best Movie at the MTV Movie Awards. The film was voted as Best Film at the People's Choice Awards. It won various awards outside the United States, including the Awards of the Japanese Academy as the Best Foreign Film of the Year. Titanic eventually won nearly 90 awards and had an additional 47 nominations from various award-giving bodies around the world.
2. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
(Collections: $1,129,219,252)
James Cameron wanted to honor the people who died during the sinking, and he spent six months fully researching what happened, creating a timeline of all the Titanic's crew and passengers.
In one controversial scene, First Officer William Murdoch, played by Ewan Stewart, is shown fatally shooting some passengers during the frenzy to get to the lifeboats. Ashamed of what he has done, he commits suicide. When his nephew Scott Murdoch saw the film, he objected to his uncle's portrayal as inaccurate and damaging to Murdoch's heroic reputation, considering that he did try to get a number of passengers off. A few months later, Fox Vice-president Scott Neeson went to Dalbeattie, where Murdoch lived, to deliver a personal apology, and also presented a £5000 donation to Dalbeattie High School to boost the school's William Murdoch Memorial Prize. Cameron apologized on the DVD commentary, but noted that there were officers who fired gunshots to follow the "women and children first" policy.
Release
Paramount Pictures and Twentieth Century Fox financed Titanic, and expected James Cameron to complete the film for a release on July 2, 1997. With production delays, Paramount pushed back the release date to December 19, 1997. The film premiered on November 1, 1997, at the Tokyo International Film Festival, where reaction was described as "tepid" by the New York Times.
Box office
The film received steady attendance after opening in North America on December 19, 1997. By Sunday that same weekend, theaters were beginning to sell out. The film debuted with $28,638,131. By New Year's Day, Titanic had increased in popularity and theaters continued selling out. After it was released, it stayed at #1 for 15 consecutive weeks in the U.S. box office. By March 1998, it was the first film to earn more than $1 billion worldwide. The movie stayed in theaters for over 8 months. Some theaters in South Africa ran it for longer than a year.
Titanic holds the record for the highest-grossing film of all time in North America, with $600 million. The previous North American record holder, Star Wars (another 20th Century Fox film), earned a total of $461 million. Adjusted for inflation, it is in sixth place. The film also holds the record as the highest-grossing movie of all time, worldwide, with $1.8 billion. The second-place worldwide holder, Return of the King, is over $700 million short of Titanic's record.
There has been word of a re-release of Titanic, due to its successful original run, as well as the advances that could be made in the special effects and digital enhancement presentation. Titanic's director, James Cameron, is said to be considering a re-release of the film in digital 3-D.
Awards
Titanic began its awards sweep starting with the Golden Globes, winning four, including Best Motion Picture (Drama), Best Director, Best Original Score, and Best Song. Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Gloria Stuart, and James Cameron's screenplay were also nominees but lost. It won the ACE "Eddie" Award, ASC Award, Art Directors Guild Award, Cinema Audio Society Award, Screen Actors Guild Awards, (Best Supporting Actress Gloria Stuart), The Directors Guild of America Award, and Broadcast Film Critics Association Award (Best Director James Cameron), and The Producer Guild of America Awards. It was also nominated for ten BAFTA awards, including Best Film and Director.
It tied All About Eve for having the most Oscar nominations in history, with 14. It won Best Picture and Best Director. It also picked up best costume design, visual effects, sound, sound effects, original dramatic score, film editing, song, art direction, and cinematography. Kate Winslet, Gloria Stuart and the make-up artists were the three nominees that failed to win. James Cameron's original screenplay and Leonardo DiCaprio were not nominees. It was the second movie to win eleven Academy Awards, after Ben-Hur. Return of the King would also match this record in 2004, with its 11 wins.
The ending credits song also won the Grammy Awards for Best Song Written Specifically for a Motion Picture or for Television. The film also won Best Male Performance for Leonardo DiCaprio and Best Movie at the MTV Movie Awards. The film was voted as Best Film at the People's Choice Awards. It won various awards outside the United States, including the Awards of the Japanese Academy as the Best Foreign Film of the Year. Titanic eventually won nearly 90 awards and had an additional 47 nominations from various award-giving bodies around the world.
2. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
(Collections: $1,129,219,252)
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is an epic fantasy film directed by Peter Jackson. It is primarily based on the third volume of J. R. R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings , and it is the concluding film in The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. It follows The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers and was filmed simultaneously with them.As Sauron launches the final stages of his conquest of Middle-earth, Gandalf the Wizard and Théoden King of Rohan step up their forces to help defend Gondor's capital Minas Tirith from this threat. Aragorn must finally take up the throne of Gondor and summons an army of ghosts to help him defeat Sauron. Ultimately, even with full strength of arms, they find they cannot win; it comes down to the Hobbits Frodo and Sam, who themselves face the burden of the Ring and the treachery of Gollum, to finally destroy the One Ring in Mordor.
Released on December 17, 2003, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King became one of the most critically acclaimed films and greatest box-office successes of all time. It swept all eleven Academy Awards it was nominated for, which ties it with only Titanic and Ben-Hur for most Academy Awards ever won. It also won the Academy Award for Best Picture, the only time in history a fantasy film has done so. It also became the second highest grossing movie worldwide of all time behind Titanic, unadjusted for inflation. The Special Extended Edition, containing 50 more minutes of footage, was released on DVD on December 14, 2004.
Story and Plot Point
The film begins with a flashback of how Sméagol recovered the One Ring, before forwarding to him as Gollum taking Frodo and Sam to Minas Morgul. Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Gandalf, Théoden and Éomer meet up with Merry, Pippin and Treebeard at Isengard, now under the Ents' control. They also recover the palantír. Pippin's curiosity gets the better of him at Edoras, and he looks into it: making Gandalf realize Sauron is planning to attack Minas Tirith, and he rides off there with Pippin. In Rivendell, Arwen has a vision of her son and convinces Elrond to reforge the sword, Narsil, that cut the Ring from Sauron's finger long ago.
Gandalf and Pippin arrive at Minas Tirith to find the steward Denethor mourning over Boromir, and Pippin swears loyalty to him. Meanwhile, the Witch-king dispatches his immense orc army, heralding the start of the war. Frodo, Sam, and Gollum begin climbing the stairs nearby. The Morgul army drives the Gondorians out of Osgiliath, and Faramir is forced to take a doomed ride to reclaim the city. Near Minas Morgul, Gollum convinces Frodo to send Sam home on the belief he wants the Ring. At the urging of Gandalf, Pippin lights the first of the beacon signals to Edoras, alerting Théoden and the rest of the Rohirrim and prompting them to ride to Dunharrow to prepare for war. While preparing for battle in Dunharrow, Aragorn meets Elrond, who presents the future King with the newly reforged sword, Andúril. Aragorn then sets off with Legolas and Gimli to brave the Paths of the Dead, to enlist the help of the cursed Army of Dead, and capture the ships of the Corsairs of Umbar. Théoden rides off to war with six thousand Riders, unaware Éowyn and Merry are part of the army too.
The Morgul forces, composed mostly of Orcs, begin the siege of Minas Tirith, and many missiles are traded, while the Witch-king and the other Ringwraiths on their Fell Beasts also attack. They break into the city using the enormous battering ram Grond. At the same time Gollum betrays Frodo to the large spider Shelob, but Sam returns to fight her off. Sam believes Frodo is dead and takes the Ring from him, but when Orcs from the Tower of Cirith Ungol take Frodo, he overhears that he is still alive. At Minas Tirith, Denethor has gone mad and prepares a pyre for him and the unconscious Faramir. Gandalf and Pippin arrive on scene and manage to save Faramir, but despite Gandalf's best efforts, Denethor dies. The Rohirrim arrive and charge into the Orcs, but the Mûmakil and the Witch-king arrive to rout them. Aragorn finally arrives with the undead on the captured Corsair ships and proceeds to annihilate the Orcs and Mûmakil, while Éowyn and Merry kill the Witch-king. Théoden dies of injuries suffered during the battle, and Aragorn holds the Dead Army's oath fulfilled, releasing them from their curse at last.
Sam rescues Frodo from Cirith Ungol which is mostly empty following a fight between Orcs over the mithril shirt, and they begin the long trek across Mordor to Mount Doom. Gandalf realizes that ten thousand Orcs stand between Frodo at Cirith Ungol and Mount Doom that he might not succeed. Aragorn leads the remaining soldiers to the Black Gate to draw the Orcs away from Frodo's path. Sam carries Frodo up to Mount Doom but Gollum arrives and attacks them, just as the Men of the West furiously battle the Orcs. At the Crack of Doom, Frodo, instead of dropping the ring into the lava, succumbs to its power and puts it on, disappearing from sight. Gollum renders Sam unconscious, seizes Frodo's finger, and bites the Ring off. Frodo charges at him and they both fall over the edge. Gollum falls into the lava flow with the Ring while Frodo hangs onto the edge of the cliff. Sam rescues Frodo as the Ring finally sinks into the lava and is destroyed. The Barad-dûr collapses and the Orcs are killed in the ensuing shockwave and earthquakes. Frodo and Sam are stranded until Gandalf arrives with the Eagles, and they awake in Minas Tirith, reuniting with their friends.
Aragorn is crowned King, heralding the new age of peace, and is reunited with Arwen. The hobbits return to the Shire, where Sam marries Rosie Cotton. Frodo, having finished writing the story of the Lord of the Rings and still exhausted from his quest as the Ring-bearer, decides to leave Middle-earth with Gandalf, Bilbo, Elrond and Galadriel at the Grey Havens, leaving his account of the story to Sam, who peacefully continues his family life.
Cast
Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins: The Hobbit who continues his quest to destroy the Ring, which continues to torture him.
Sean Astin as Samwise Gamgee: Better known as Sam, he is Frodo's loyal Hobbit companion.
Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn: He must finally face his destiny as King of Gondor.
Ian McKellen as Gandalf the White: The Wizard who travels to aid the Men of Gondor.
Dominic Monaghan as Meriadoc Brandybuck: Better known as Merry, the Hobbit who becomes an esquire of Rohan.
Billy Boyd as Peregrin Took: Better known as Pippin, a Hobbit who looks into the palantír and becomes an esquire of Gondor.
Orlando Bloom as Legolas: An Elven archer and one of Aragorn's best friends.
John Rhys-Davies as Gimli: The warrior Dwarf who continues his friendly rivalry over Orc kills with Legolas. Rhys-Davies also voices Treebeard the Ent leader.
Andy Serkis voices and provides motion capture for Gollum: The treacherous Hobbit who guides Frodo and Sam into Mordor. His life as Sméagol is glimpsed in the beginning of the film, and how he murdered his friend Déagol for the Ring before an eternity of loneliness. Serkis also plays Sméagol, and voices the The Witch-king of Angmar.
Bernard Hill as Théoden: King of Rohan. He is preparing his troops for the Battle of the Pelennor Fields.
Miranda Otto as Éowyn: Théoden's niece, who wishes to prove herself in battle.
Karl Urban as Éomer: Éowyn's brother, and Chief Marshal of the Riders of Rohan.
Hugo Weaving as Elrond: The Elven lord of Rivendell who must convince Aragorn to take up the throne.
Liv Tyler as Arwen, daughter of Elrond, who loves Aragorn. She becomes sick with grief.
David Wenham as Faramir: The head of the Gondorian Rangers defending Osgiliath.
John Noble as Denethor: Steward of Gondor and Faramir's father. He has fallen into madness as he lost hope.
Bruce Hopkins as Gamling: Right hand man of Théoden and a skilled member of the Royal Guard of Rohan.
Paul Norell as The King of the Dead: The cursed leader of the Dead Men at Dunharrow, from whom Aragorn must seek help.
Lawrence Makoare plays the The Witch-king of Angmar, the Lord of the Nazgûl, he leads Mordor's assault on Minas Tirith. He also plays Gothmog, an Orc commander who is voiced by Craig Parker.
Ian Holm as Bilbo Baggins: Frodo's elderly uncle.
Cate Blanchett as Galadriel: Elven lady of Lórien. She is aware the time of the Elves is at an end.
Sarah McLeod as Rosie Cotton: The girl of Sam's dreams.
Sean Bean as Boromir: Faramir's brother, in a flashback to his death at the end of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, and in the extended cut when Denethor has a hallucination.
The following only appear in the Extended Edition
Christopher Lee as Saruman: The former head wizard now trapped by Treebeard.
Brad Dourif as Gríma Wormtongue: Saruman's sycophantic, treacherous servant.
Bruce Spence as The Mouth of Sauron: Sauron's emissary at the Black Gate.
There are also cameos from Peter Jackson, Richard Taylor, Gino Acevedo, Rick Porras and Andrew Lesnie on the Corsair ship, although all of them but Jackson only appear in the Extended Edition. Jackson also has another unofficial cameo, as Sam's hand stepping into view when he confronts Shelob. Jackson's children also cameo as Gondorian extras, whilst Christian Rivers played a Gondorian soldier guarding the Beacon Pippin lights, and is later seen wounded. Royd Tolkien cameos as a Ranger in Osgiliath, whilst in the Extended Edition Howard Shore appears as a celebrating soldier at Edoras. Additionally, four of the designers of The Lord of the Rings Strategy Battle Game featured as Rohirrim at the Pelennor. At the end of the film, each cast member gets a sketched portrait by Alan Lee, an idea suggested by Ian McKellen.
Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins: The Hobbit who continues his quest to destroy the Ring, which continues to torture him.
Sean Astin as Samwise Gamgee: Better known as Sam, he is Frodo's loyal Hobbit companion.
Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn: He must finally face his destiny as King of Gondor.
Ian McKellen as Gandalf the White: The Wizard who travels to aid the Men of Gondor.
Dominic Monaghan as Meriadoc Brandybuck: Better known as Merry, the Hobbit who becomes an esquire of Rohan.
Billy Boyd as Peregrin Took: Better known as Pippin, a Hobbit who looks into the palantír and becomes an esquire of Gondor.
Orlando Bloom as Legolas: An Elven archer and one of Aragorn's best friends.
John Rhys-Davies as Gimli: The warrior Dwarf who continues his friendly rivalry over Orc kills with Legolas. Rhys-Davies also voices Treebeard the Ent leader.
Andy Serkis voices and provides motion capture for Gollum: The treacherous Hobbit who guides Frodo and Sam into Mordor. His life as Sméagol is glimpsed in the beginning of the film, and how he murdered his friend Déagol for the Ring before an eternity of loneliness. Serkis also plays Sméagol, and voices the The Witch-king of Angmar.
Bernard Hill as Théoden: King of Rohan. He is preparing his troops for the Battle of the Pelennor Fields.
Miranda Otto as Éowyn: Théoden's niece, who wishes to prove herself in battle.
Karl Urban as Éomer: Éowyn's brother, and Chief Marshal of the Riders of Rohan.
Hugo Weaving as Elrond: The Elven lord of Rivendell who must convince Aragorn to take up the throne.
Liv Tyler as Arwen, daughter of Elrond, who loves Aragorn. She becomes sick with grief.
David Wenham as Faramir: The head of the Gondorian Rangers defending Osgiliath.
John Noble as Denethor: Steward of Gondor and Faramir's father. He has fallen into madness as he lost hope.
Bruce Hopkins as Gamling: Right hand man of Théoden and a skilled member of the Royal Guard of Rohan.
Paul Norell as The King of the Dead: The cursed leader of the Dead Men at Dunharrow, from whom Aragorn must seek help.
Lawrence Makoare plays the The Witch-king of Angmar, the Lord of the Nazgûl, he leads Mordor's assault on Minas Tirith. He also plays Gothmog, an Orc commander who is voiced by Craig Parker.
Ian Holm as Bilbo Baggins: Frodo's elderly uncle.
Cate Blanchett as Galadriel: Elven lady of Lórien. She is aware the time of the Elves is at an end.
Sarah McLeod as Rosie Cotton: The girl of Sam's dreams.
Sean Bean as Boromir: Faramir's brother, in a flashback to his death at the end of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, and in the extended cut when Denethor has a hallucination.
The following only appear in the Extended Edition
Christopher Lee as Saruman: The former head wizard now trapped by Treebeard.
Brad Dourif as Gríma Wormtongue: Saruman's sycophantic, treacherous servant.
Bruce Spence as The Mouth of Sauron: Sauron's emissary at the Black Gate.
There are also cameos from Peter Jackson, Richard Taylor, Gino Acevedo, Rick Porras and Andrew Lesnie on the Corsair ship, although all of them but Jackson only appear in the Extended Edition. Jackson also has another unofficial cameo, as Sam's hand stepping into view when he confronts Shelob. Jackson's children also cameo as Gondorian extras, whilst Christian Rivers played a Gondorian soldier guarding the Beacon Pippin lights, and is later seen wounded. Royd Tolkien cameos as a Ranger in Osgiliath, whilst in the Extended Edition Howard Shore appears as a celebrating soldier at Edoras. Additionally, four of the designers of The Lord of the Rings Strategy Battle Game featured as Rohirrim at the Pelennor. At the end of the film, each cast member gets a sketched portrait by Alan Lee, an idea suggested by Ian McKellen.
Comparison with the source material
The film contains major scenes that occurred in the middle portion of the novel The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers but were not included in the film The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, such as Shelob and the palantír subplot, due to Jackson realigning the timeline as described in the book's Appendices, but not in the main prose. Saruman's murder by Gríma (seen only in the Extended Edition) is moved into the Isengard visit due to the cutting of the Scouring of the Shire. In the movie, Saruman drops the palantír, whereas in the book Gríma throws it at the Fellowship, unaware of its value. The entire Shelob sequence also takes place at the end of The Two Towers book, rather than within The Return of the King book.
Denethor, the Steward of Gondor was a more tragic character in the book. The film only focuses on his overwhelming grief over the death of Boromir as to ignore Sauron's threat (in the book he already lights the beacons), and is driven over the edge by Faramir's injury. The film only hints at his use of the palantír which drives him mad, information revealed in the Pyre scene, which is more violent than the book. Jackson also has Denethor jump off the Citadel instead of burning himself on the Pyre, one of the earliest changes.
The Battle of the Pelennor Fields is altered: Faramir never goes on a suicide mission, and is a simplification of the siege of Osgiliath. Generals such as Forlong and Imrahil are also absent, only leaving Gandalf in command. The Orcs also never get into the city in the book. The Witch-king enters and stands off against Gandalf before the Rohirrim arrive, but in the film Orcs invade the city after Grond breaks the Gate. The confrontation takes place whilst Gandalf journeys to save Faramir in the Extended Edition, during which Gandalf has his staff broken. A subplot in which the Rohirrim are aided by the primitive Drúedain into entering the besieged Gondor is also excised. Éowyn's presence to the reader on the battlefield is unknown until she takes off her helmet, but in the film the audience is aware, due to the difference of film and book as a medium. When hope is almost lost, Gandalf also comforts Pippin with a description of the Undying Lands, which is a descriptive passage in the book's final chapter. The film depicts the Army of the Dead fighting in the Battle, whereas in the book they are released from service prior to this, after helping Aragorn defeat the Corsairs of Umbar at the port city of Pelargir in Lebennin; Aragorn's reinforcements are more Gondorians. An unstoppable and invulnerable force, the Dead wipe out Sauron's forces; an article from CNN.com called the battle's climax an "oversimplified cop out" as a result of their involvement.
Sam and Frodo's major rift in their friendship, due to Gollum's machinations, never takes place in the book, but the writers added believing that it added drama and more complexity to Frodo. Frodo enters Shelob's lair alone in the movie, whereas in the book he and Sam entered together. This was done to make the scene more horrific with Frodo being alone, and Sam's rescue at the last minute more dramatic. Also, in the movie we don't know that Sam has the ring until he gives it back to Frodo, whereas in the book the reader knows that Sam has the ring. Gollum's fall into the lava of Mount Doom was also rewritten for the film, as the writers felt Tolkien's original idea (Gollum simply slips and falls off) was anti-climactic. Originally, an even greater deviation was planned: Frodo would heroically push Gollum over the ledge to destroy him and the Ring, but the production team eventually realized that it looked more like Frodo murdering Gollum. As a result, they had Frodo and Gollum struggle for possession of the Ring.
There are two changes in the Battle of the Black Gate: Merry is not present there in the book, and Pippin does not kill a troll as he does in the novel. There was an even larger change planned: Sauron himself would come out in physical form to battle Aragorn, who would only be saved by the destruction of the Ring. Jackson eventually realized it ignored the point of Aragorn's true bravery in distracting Sauron's army against overwhelming odds, and a computer generated Troll was placed over footage of Sauron in the finished film. The ending is streamlined so as not to include the Scouring of the Shire, which was always seen by the writers as anti-climactic. It is referenced, though, in Frodo's vision of the future in Galadriel's mirror in The Fellowship of the Ring.
Production
The Lord of the Rings film trilogy is unusual in that it is, to date, the only one whose separate installments were written and then shot simultaneously (excluding pick up shoots). Jackson admitted The Return of the King was the easiest of the films to make, because it contained the climax of the story, unlike the other two films. The Return of the King was originally the second of two planned films under Miramax from January 1997 to August 1998, and more or less in its finished structure as the first film was to end with The Two Towers' Battle of Helm's Deep. Filming took place under multiple units across New Zealand, between October 11, 1999 and December 22, 2000, with pick up shoots for six weeks in 2003 before the film's release.
The film contains major scenes that occurred in the middle portion of the novel The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers but were not included in the film The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, such as Shelob and the palantír subplot, due to Jackson realigning the timeline as described in the book's Appendices, but not in the main prose. Saruman's murder by Gríma (seen only in the Extended Edition) is moved into the Isengard visit due to the cutting of the Scouring of the Shire. In the movie, Saruman drops the palantír, whereas in the book Gríma throws it at the Fellowship, unaware of its value. The entire Shelob sequence also takes place at the end of The Two Towers book, rather than within The Return of the King book.
Denethor, the Steward of Gondor was a more tragic character in the book. The film only focuses on his overwhelming grief over the death of Boromir as to ignore Sauron's threat (in the book he already lights the beacons), and is driven over the edge by Faramir's injury. The film only hints at his use of the palantír which drives him mad, information revealed in the Pyre scene, which is more violent than the book. Jackson also has Denethor jump off the Citadel instead of burning himself on the Pyre, one of the earliest changes.
The Battle of the Pelennor Fields is altered: Faramir never goes on a suicide mission, and is a simplification of the siege of Osgiliath. Generals such as Forlong and Imrahil are also absent, only leaving Gandalf in command. The Orcs also never get into the city in the book. The Witch-king enters and stands off against Gandalf before the Rohirrim arrive, but in the film Orcs invade the city after Grond breaks the Gate. The confrontation takes place whilst Gandalf journeys to save Faramir in the Extended Edition, during which Gandalf has his staff broken. A subplot in which the Rohirrim are aided by the primitive Drúedain into entering the besieged Gondor is also excised. Éowyn's presence to the reader on the battlefield is unknown until she takes off her helmet, but in the film the audience is aware, due to the difference of film and book as a medium. When hope is almost lost, Gandalf also comforts Pippin with a description of the Undying Lands, which is a descriptive passage in the book's final chapter. The film depicts the Army of the Dead fighting in the Battle, whereas in the book they are released from service prior to this, after helping Aragorn defeat the Corsairs of Umbar at the port city of Pelargir in Lebennin; Aragorn's reinforcements are more Gondorians. An unstoppable and invulnerable force, the Dead wipe out Sauron's forces; an article from CNN.com called the battle's climax an "oversimplified cop out" as a result of their involvement.
Sam and Frodo's major rift in their friendship, due to Gollum's machinations, never takes place in the book, but the writers added believing that it added drama and more complexity to Frodo. Frodo enters Shelob's lair alone in the movie, whereas in the book he and Sam entered together. This was done to make the scene more horrific with Frodo being alone, and Sam's rescue at the last minute more dramatic. Also, in the movie we don't know that Sam has the ring until he gives it back to Frodo, whereas in the book the reader knows that Sam has the ring. Gollum's fall into the lava of Mount Doom was also rewritten for the film, as the writers felt Tolkien's original idea (Gollum simply slips and falls off) was anti-climactic. Originally, an even greater deviation was planned: Frodo would heroically push Gollum over the ledge to destroy him and the Ring, but the production team eventually realized that it looked more like Frodo murdering Gollum. As a result, they had Frodo and Gollum struggle for possession of the Ring.
There are two changes in the Battle of the Black Gate: Merry is not present there in the book, and Pippin does not kill a troll as he does in the novel. There was an even larger change planned: Sauron himself would come out in physical form to battle Aragorn, who would only be saved by the destruction of the Ring. Jackson eventually realized it ignored the point of Aragorn's true bravery in distracting Sauron's army against overwhelming odds, and a computer generated Troll was placed over footage of Sauron in the finished film. The ending is streamlined so as not to include the Scouring of the Shire, which was always seen by the writers as anti-climactic. It is referenced, though, in Frodo's vision of the future in Galadriel's mirror in The Fellowship of the Ring.
Production
The Lord of the Rings film trilogy is unusual in that it is, to date, the only one whose separate installments were written and then shot simultaneously (excluding pick up shoots). Jackson admitted The Return of the King was the easiest of the films to make, because it contained the climax of the story, unlike the other two films. The Return of the King was originally the second of two planned films under Miramax from January 1997 to August 1998, and more or less in its finished structure as the first film was to end with The Two Towers' Battle of Helm's Deep. Filming took place under multiple units across New Zealand, between October 11, 1999 and December 22, 2000, with pick up shoots for six weeks in 2003 before the film's release.
Design
Middle-earth as envisioned by Jackson was primarily designed by Alan Lee and John Howe, former Tolkien illustrators, and created by Weta Workshop, who handled all the trilogy's weapons, armour, miniatures, prosthetics and creatures, as well as the Art Department which built the sets. Richard Taylor headed Weta, whilst Grant Major and Dan Hennah organized the planning and building respectively.
The city of Minas Tirith, glimpsed briefly in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, is seen fully in this film, and with it the Gondorian civilization. The enormous soundstage was built at Dry Creek Quarry, outside Wellington, from the Helm's Deep set. That set's gate became Minas Tirith's second, whilst the Hornburg exterior became that of the Extended Edition's scene where Gandalf confronts the Witch-king. New structures included was the 8m tall Gate, with broken and unbroken versions, with a working opening and closing mechanism, with its engravings inspired by the Bapistry of San Giovanni. There were also four levels of streets with heraldic motifs for every house, as inspired by Siena.
There was also the Citadel, the exterior of which was in the Stone Street Studios backlot, utilizing forced perspective. It contains the withered White Tree, built from polystyrene by Brian Massey and the Greens Department with real branches, influenced by ancient and gnarled Lebanese olive trees. The interior was within a 3 story former factory in Wellington, and colour wise is influenced by Charlemagne's Chapel, with a throne for Denethor carved from stone and polystyrene statues of past Kings. The Gondorian armour is designed to represent an evolution from the Númenóreans of the first film's prologue, with a simplified sea bird motif. 16th century Italian and German armour served as inspiration, whilst civilians wear silver and blacks as designed by Ngila Dickson, continuing an ancient/medieval Mediterranean Basin look.
Minas Morgul, the Staircase and Tower of Cirith Ungol as well as Shelob's Lair were designed by Howe, with the Morgul road using forced perspective into a bluescreened miniature. Howe's design of Minas Morgul was inspired from the experience of having wisdom teeth pulled out: in the same way, the Orcs have put their twisted designs on to a former Gondorian city. Cirith Ungol was based on Tolkien's design, but when Richard Taylor felt it as "boring", it was redesigned with more tipping angles. The interior set, like Minas Tirith, was built as a few multiple levels that numerous camera takes would suggest a larger structure.
The third film introduces the enormous spider Shelob. Shelob was designed in 1999, with the body based on a tunnelweb spider and the head with numerous growths selected by Peter Jackson's children from one of many sculpts. Jackson himself took great joy in planning the sequence, being an arachnophobe himself. Shelob's Lair was inspired by sandstone and sculpted from the existing Caverns of Isengard set.
The Return of the King also brings into focus the Dead Men of Dunharrow and the evil Haradrim from the south of Middle-earth, men who ride the Mûmakil. The Dead Men have a Celtic influence, as well as lines and symmetry to reflect their morbid state, whilst their underground city is influenced by Petra. The Haradrim were highly influenced by African culture, until Philippa Boyens expressed concern over the possibility of offensiveness, so the finished characters instead bear influence from Kiribati, in terms of weaving armour from bamboo, and the Aztecs, in use of jewellery. Also built was a single dead Mumak. Other minor cultures include the Corsairs, with an exotic, swarthy look, and the Grey Havens, Elven structures adapted to stone, with influence from J. M. W. Turner paintings.
Principal photography
The Return of the King was shot during 2000, though Sean Astin's coverage from Gollum's attempt to separate Frodo and Sam was filmed on November 24, 1999, when floods in Queenstown interrupted the focus on The Fellowship of the Ring. Some of the earliest scenes shot for the film were in fact the last. Hobbiton, home of the Hobbits, was shot in January 2000 with early scenes from The Fellowship of the Ring, with the exterior shot at a Matamata farm, whilst interior scenes shot at Stone Street Studios in Wellington, shared with the Grey Havens sequence. Due to the high emotions of filming the scene, the cast were in despair when they were required to shoot it three times, due to a costume continuity flaw in Sean Astin's costume, and then negatives producing out-of-focus reels. Also shared with the previous films was the Rivendell interior in May.
The Battle of the Black Gate was filmed in April at the Rangipo Desert, a former minefield. New Zealand soldiers were hired as extras whilst guides were on the look out for unexploded mines. Also a cause for concern were Monaghan and Boyd's scale doubles during a charge sequence. In the meantime, Wood, Astin and Serkis filmed at Mount Ruapehu for the Mount Doom exteriors. In particular, they spent two hours shooting Sam lifting Frodo on to his back with cross-camera coverage.
Scenes shot in June were the Paths of the Dead across various locations, including Pinnacles. In July the crew shot some Shelob scenes, and in August and September time was spent on the scenes in Isengard. Monaghan and Boyd tried numerous takes of their entrance, stressing the word "weed" as they smoked pipe-weed. Christopher Lee spent his part of his scene mostly alone, though McKellen and Hill arrived on the first day for a few lines to help.
Edoras exteriors were shot in October. The Ride of the Rohirrim, where Théoden leads the charge into the Orc army, was filmed in Twizel with 150 extras on horseback. The Battle of the Pelennor Fields has more extensive use of computer-generated imagery, in contrast to the more extensive use of live action in the Battle of Helm's Deep in the second film. Also filmed were the attempts by Faramir to recapture Osgiliath, as were scenes in the city itself. At this point production was very hectic, with Jackson moving around ten units per day, and production finally wrapped on the Minas Tirith sets, as well as second units shooting parts of the siege. Just as the Hobbit actors' first scene was hiding under a Ringwraith, their last scene was the bluescreened reaction shot of the inhabitants of Minas Tirith bowing to them.
Middle-earth as envisioned by Jackson was primarily designed by Alan Lee and John Howe, former Tolkien illustrators, and created by Weta Workshop, who handled all the trilogy's weapons, armour, miniatures, prosthetics and creatures, as well as the Art Department which built the sets. Richard Taylor headed Weta, whilst Grant Major and Dan Hennah organized the planning and building respectively.
The city of Minas Tirith, glimpsed briefly in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, is seen fully in this film, and with it the Gondorian civilization. The enormous soundstage was built at Dry Creek Quarry, outside Wellington, from the Helm's Deep set. That set's gate became Minas Tirith's second, whilst the Hornburg exterior became that of the Extended Edition's scene where Gandalf confronts the Witch-king. New structures included was the 8m tall Gate, with broken and unbroken versions, with a working opening and closing mechanism, with its engravings inspired by the Bapistry of San Giovanni. There were also four levels of streets with heraldic motifs for every house, as inspired by Siena.
There was also the Citadel, the exterior of which was in the Stone Street Studios backlot, utilizing forced perspective. It contains the withered White Tree, built from polystyrene by Brian Massey and the Greens Department with real branches, influenced by ancient and gnarled Lebanese olive trees. The interior was within a 3 story former factory in Wellington, and colour wise is influenced by Charlemagne's Chapel, with a throne for Denethor carved from stone and polystyrene statues of past Kings. The Gondorian armour is designed to represent an evolution from the Númenóreans of the first film's prologue, with a simplified sea bird motif. 16th century Italian and German armour served as inspiration, whilst civilians wear silver and blacks as designed by Ngila Dickson, continuing an ancient/medieval Mediterranean Basin look.
Minas Morgul, the Staircase and Tower of Cirith Ungol as well as Shelob's Lair were designed by Howe, with the Morgul road using forced perspective into a bluescreened miniature. Howe's design of Minas Morgul was inspired from the experience of having wisdom teeth pulled out: in the same way, the Orcs have put their twisted designs on to a former Gondorian city. Cirith Ungol was based on Tolkien's design, but when Richard Taylor felt it as "boring", it was redesigned with more tipping angles. The interior set, like Minas Tirith, was built as a few multiple levels that numerous camera takes would suggest a larger structure.
The third film introduces the enormous spider Shelob. Shelob was designed in 1999, with the body based on a tunnelweb spider and the head with numerous growths selected by Peter Jackson's children from one of many sculpts. Jackson himself took great joy in planning the sequence, being an arachnophobe himself. Shelob's Lair was inspired by sandstone and sculpted from the existing Caverns of Isengard set.
The Return of the King also brings into focus the Dead Men of Dunharrow and the evil Haradrim from the south of Middle-earth, men who ride the Mûmakil. The Dead Men have a Celtic influence, as well as lines and symmetry to reflect their morbid state, whilst their underground city is influenced by Petra. The Haradrim were highly influenced by African culture, until Philippa Boyens expressed concern over the possibility of offensiveness, so the finished characters instead bear influence from Kiribati, in terms of weaving armour from bamboo, and the Aztecs, in use of jewellery. Also built was a single dead Mumak. Other minor cultures include the Corsairs, with an exotic, swarthy look, and the Grey Havens, Elven structures adapted to stone, with influence from J. M. W. Turner paintings.
Principal photography
The Return of the King was shot during 2000, though Sean Astin's coverage from Gollum's attempt to separate Frodo and Sam was filmed on November 24, 1999, when floods in Queenstown interrupted the focus on The Fellowship of the Ring. Some of the earliest scenes shot for the film were in fact the last. Hobbiton, home of the Hobbits, was shot in January 2000 with early scenes from The Fellowship of the Ring, with the exterior shot at a Matamata farm, whilst interior scenes shot at Stone Street Studios in Wellington, shared with the Grey Havens sequence. Due to the high emotions of filming the scene, the cast were in despair when they were required to shoot it three times, due to a costume continuity flaw in Sean Astin's costume, and then negatives producing out-of-focus reels. Also shared with the previous films was the Rivendell interior in May.
The Battle of the Black Gate was filmed in April at the Rangipo Desert, a former minefield. New Zealand soldiers were hired as extras whilst guides were on the look out for unexploded mines. Also a cause for concern were Monaghan and Boyd's scale doubles during a charge sequence. In the meantime, Wood, Astin and Serkis filmed at Mount Ruapehu for the Mount Doom exteriors. In particular, they spent two hours shooting Sam lifting Frodo on to his back with cross-camera coverage.
Scenes shot in June were the Paths of the Dead across various locations, including Pinnacles. In July the crew shot some Shelob scenes, and in August and September time was spent on the scenes in Isengard. Monaghan and Boyd tried numerous takes of their entrance, stressing the word "weed" as they smoked pipe-weed. Christopher Lee spent his part of his scene mostly alone, though McKellen and Hill arrived on the first day for a few lines to help.
Edoras exteriors were shot in October. The Ride of the Rohirrim, where Théoden leads the charge into the Orc army, was filmed in Twizel with 150 extras on horseback. The Battle of the Pelennor Fields has more extensive use of computer-generated imagery, in contrast to the more extensive use of live action in the Battle of Helm's Deep in the second film. Also filmed were the attempts by Faramir to recapture Osgiliath, as were scenes in the city itself. At this point production was very hectic, with Jackson moving around ten units per day, and production finally wrapped on the Minas Tirith sets, as well as second units shooting parts of the siege. Just as the Hobbit actors' first scene was hiding under a Ringwraith, their last scene was the bluescreened reaction shot of the inhabitants of Minas Tirith bowing to them.
Pick-ups
The 2003 pick ups were filmed in the Wellington studio car park, with many parts of sets and bluescreens used to finish off scenes, which the design team had to work 24/7 to get the right sets ready for a particular day. The shoot continued for two months, and became an emotional time of farewells for the cast and crew. The film has the most extensive list of reshoots given for the trilogy. Jackson took his time to reshoot Aragorn's coronation, rushed into a single day under second unit director Geoff Murphy on December 21, 2000. Jackson also reshot scenes in and around Mount Doom, and Théoden's death, right after Bernard Hill was meant to wrap.
There was also the new character of Gothmog. This was a major new design addition for the film, as Jackson felt the Mordor Orcs were pathetic compared to the Uruk-hai of the second film after watching assembly cuts, and thus Weta created grotesque new über Orcs, as antagonists for the audience to focus on. Christian Rivers also redesigned the Witch-king and all of his scenes were reshot, due to confusion from non-readers over whether or not Sauron was on the battlefield.
With the positive response to Orlando Bloom, Legolas was given a fight with a mûmak, and Howard Shore also got a cameo during Legolas and Gimli's drinking game at Edoras. The final scenes shot were Aragorn escaping the Skull avalanche, and Frodo finishing off his book. The cast also received various props associated with their characters, although in the case of John Rhys-Davies, he burnt his final Gimli prosthetic. Viggo Mortensen headbutted the stunt team goodbye. Pick-ups ended on June 27, 2003.
Scenes shot afterwards included various live-action shots of Riders for the Battle of the Pelennor Fields and a reaction shot of Andy Serkis as Gollum finally realizing Frodo intends to destroy the Ring, shot in Jackson's house. For the Extended DVD, Jackson shot a few shots of skulls rolling over for the avalanche scene in March 2004, the final piece of footage ever shot for the trilogy.
Editing
Post-production on The Return of the King began in November 2002, with the completion of the 4 1/2 hour assembly cut of the film that Annie Collins had been completing over 2001 and 2002, from 4 hour dailies. For example, Théoden leading the charge went from 150 minutes of takes to a finished 90 seconds. Jackson reunited with longtime collaborator Jamie Selkirk to edit the final film. Like The Two Towers, they would have to deal with multiple storylines, and Jackson paid attention to each storyline at a time before deciding where to intercut. Most importantly they spent three weeks working on the last 45 minutes of the film, for appropriate intercutting and leaving out scenes such as the Mouth of Sauron, and the fates of characters like Legolas, Gimli, Éowyn and Faramir. The film inherited scenes originally planned to go into the second film, including the reforging of Narsil, Gollum's backstory, and Saruman's exit. But the Saruman scene posed a structural problem: killing off the second film's villain when the plot was Sauron as the main villain. Despite pick-ups and dubs, the scene was cut, causing controversy with fans and Saruman actor Christopher Lee, as well as a petition to restore the scene. Lee nonetheless contributed to the DVDs and was at the Copenhagen premiere, although on the other hand he says he will never understand the reason for the cut and his relationship with Jackson is chilly. Jackson only had a lock on 5 out of 10 reels, and had to churn out 3 reels in 3 weeks to help finish the film. It was finally done on November 12. Jackson never had a chance to view the film in full during the hectic schedule, and only saw the film from beginning to end at the December 1 Wellington premiere.
Visual effects
The Return of the King contains 1,488 visual effect shots, nearly 3 times the amount of the first film, and almost 2 times the amount of the second film. Visual effects work began with Alan Lee and Mark Lewis compositing various photographs of New Zealand landscape to create the digital arena of the Pelennor Fields in November 2002. Gary Horsfield also created a digital version of the Barad-dûr during his Christmas break at home by himself, for the film's climax. In the meantime, Jackson and Christian Rivers used computers to plan the enormous battle up until February 2003, when the shots were shown to Weta Digital. To their astonishment, 60 planned shots had gone up to 250, and 50,000 characters were now 200,000. Nevertheless they pressed on, soon delivering 100 shots a week, 20 a day, as the deadline neared within the last two months, often working until 2a.m.
For the battle, they recorded 450 motions for the MASSIVE digital horses (though deaths were animated), and also had to deal with late additions in the film, such as Trolls bursting through Minas Tirith's gates as well as the creatures that pull Grond to the gate, and redoing a shot of two mûmaks Éomer takes down that had originally taken six months into two days. On a similar note of digital creatures, Shelob's head sculpt was scanned by a Canadian company for 10 times more detail than WETA had previously been able to capture.
Like the previous films, there are also extensive morphs between digital doubles for the actors. This time, there was Sam falling off Shelob, where the morph takes place as Astin hits the ground. Legolas attacking a mûmak required numerous transitions to and fro, and Gollum's shots of him having recovered the One Ring and falling into the Crack of Doom were fully animated. The King of the Dead is played by an actor in prosthetics, and his head occasionally morphs to a more skull-like digital version, depending on the character's mood. The Mouth of Sauron also had his mouth enlarged 200% for unsettling effect.
The Return of the King also has practical effects. In the Pyre of Denethor sequence, as the Steward of Gondor throws Pippin out of the Tomb, John Noble threw a dwarf named Fon onto a lying Billy Boyd, who immediately pushed his head into camera to complete the illusion. A few burning torches were also reflected onto a mirror and into the camera for when Gandalf's horse Shadowfax kicks Denethor onto the Pyre. Due to Jackson's requirement of complete realism with his fantasy world, numerous miniatures were built, such as 1:72 scale miniature of Minas Tirith, which rises 7m high and is 6.5m in diameter. 1:14 scale sections of the city were also required, and the Extended Edition scene of the collapsing City of the Dead has 80,000 small skulls, amounting in total to a single cubic meter. The miniatures team concluded in November with the Black Gate, after 1000 days of shooting, and the final digital effects shot done was the Ring's unmaking, on November 25.
The 2003 pick ups were filmed in the Wellington studio car park, with many parts of sets and bluescreens used to finish off scenes, which the design team had to work 24/7 to get the right sets ready for a particular day. The shoot continued for two months, and became an emotional time of farewells for the cast and crew. The film has the most extensive list of reshoots given for the trilogy. Jackson took his time to reshoot Aragorn's coronation, rushed into a single day under second unit director Geoff Murphy on December 21, 2000. Jackson also reshot scenes in and around Mount Doom, and Théoden's death, right after Bernard Hill was meant to wrap.
There was also the new character of Gothmog. This was a major new design addition for the film, as Jackson felt the Mordor Orcs were pathetic compared to the Uruk-hai of the second film after watching assembly cuts, and thus Weta created grotesque new über Orcs, as antagonists for the audience to focus on. Christian Rivers also redesigned the Witch-king and all of his scenes were reshot, due to confusion from non-readers over whether or not Sauron was on the battlefield.
With the positive response to Orlando Bloom, Legolas was given a fight with a mûmak, and Howard Shore also got a cameo during Legolas and Gimli's drinking game at Edoras. The final scenes shot were Aragorn escaping the Skull avalanche, and Frodo finishing off his book. The cast also received various props associated with their characters, although in the case of John Rhys-Davies, he burnt his final Gimli prosthetic. Viggo Mortensen headbutted the stunt team goodbye. Pick-ups ended on June 27, 2003.
Scenes shot afterwards included various live-action shots of Riders for the Battle of the Pelennor Fields and a reaction shot of Andy Serkis as Gollum finally realizing Frodo intends to destroy the Ring, shot in Jackson's house. For the Extended DVD, Jackson shot a few shots of skulls rolling over for the avalanche scene in March 2004, the final piece of footage ever shot for the trilogy.
Editing
Post-production on The Return of the King began in November 2002, with the completion of the 4 1/2 hour assembly cut of the film that Annie Collins had been completing over 2001 and 2002, from 4 hour dailies. For example, Théoden leading the charge went from 150 minutes of takes to a finished 90 seconds. Jackson reunited with longtime collaborator Jamie Selkirk to edit the final film. Like The Two Towers, they would have to deal with multiple storylines, and Jackson paid attention to each storyline at a time before deciding where to intercut. Most importantly they spent three weeks working on the last 45 minutes of the film, for appropriate intercutting and leaving out scenes such as the Mouth of Sauron, and the fates of characters like Legolas, Gimli, Éowyn and Faramir. The film inherited scenes originally planned to go into the second film, including the reforging of Narsil, Gollum's backstory, and Saruman's exit. But the Saruman scene posed a structural problem: killing off the second film's villain when the plot was Sauron as the main villain. Despite pick-ups and dubs, the scene was cut, causing controversy with fans and Saruman actor Christopher Lee, as well as a petition to restore the scene. Lee nonetheless contributed to the DVDs and was at the Copenhagen premiere, although on the other hand he says he will never understand the reason for the cut and his relationship with Jackson is chilly. Jackson only had a lock on 5 out of 10 reels, and had to churn out 3 reels in 3 weeks to help finish the film. It was finally done on November 12. Jackson never had a chance to view the film in full during the hectic schedule, and only saw the film from beginning to end at the December 1 Wellington premiere.
Visual effects
The Return of the King contains 1,488 visual effect shots, nearly 3 times the amount of the first film, and almost 2 times the amount of the second film. Visual effects work began with Alan Lee and Mark Lewis compositing various photographs of New Zealand landscape to create the digital arena of the Pelennor Fields in November 2002. Gary Horsfield also created a digital version of the Barad-dûr during his Christmas break at home by himself, for the film's climax. In the meantime, Jackson and Christian Rivers used computers to plan the enormous battle up until February 2003, when the shots were shown to Weta Digital. To their astonishment, 60 planned shots had gone up to 250, and 50,000 characters were now 200,000. Nevertheless they pressed on, soon delivering 100 shots a week, 20 a day, as the deadline neared within the last two months, often working until 2a.m.
For the battle, they recorded 450 motions for the MASSIVE digital horses (though deaths were animated), and also had to deal with late additions in the film, such as Trolls bursting through Minas Tirith's gates as well as the creatures that pull Grond to the gate, and redoing a shot of two mûmaks Éomer takes down that had originally taken six months into two days. On a similar note of digital creatures, Shelob's head sculpt was scanned by a Canadian company for 10 times more detail than WETA had previously been able to capture.
Like the previous films, there are also extensive morphs between digital doubles for the actors. This time, there was Sam falling off Shelob, where the morph takes place as Astin hits the ground. Legolas attacking a mûmak required numerous transitions to and fro, and Gollum's shots of him having recovered the One Ring and falling into the Crack of Doom were fully animated. The King of the Dead is played by an actor in prosthetics, and his head occasionally morphs to a more skull-like digital version, depending on the character's mood. The Mouth of Sauron also had his mouth enlarged 200% for unsettling effect.
The Return of the King also has practical effects. In the Pyre of Denethor sequence, as the Steward of Gondor throws Pippin out of the Tomb, John Noble threw a dwarf named Fon onto a lying Billy Boyd, who immediately pushed his head into camera to complete the illusion. A few burning torches were also reflected onto a mirror and into the camera for when Gandalf's horse Shadowfax kicks Denethor onto the Pyre. Due to Jackson's requirement of complete realism with his fantasy world, numerous miniatures were built, such as 1:72 scale miniature of Minas Tirith, which rises 7m high and is 6.5m in diameter. 1:14 scale sections of the city were also required, and the Extended Edition scene of the collapsing City of the Dead has 80,000 small skulls, amounting in total to a single cubic meter. The miniatures team concluded in November with the Black Gate, after 1000 days of shooting, and the final digital effects shot done was the Ring's unmaking, on November 25.
Soundtrack
The music was composed by Howard Shore, who previously composed the first two parts of the trilogy. Shore watched the assembly cut of the film, and had to write seven minutes of music per day to keep up with the schedule. The score sees the full introduction of the Gondor theme, originally heard during Boromir's speeches at the Council of Elrond in The Fellowship of the Ring and at Osgiliath in The Two Towers Extended Edition. Actors Billy Boyd, Viggo Mortensen and Liv Tyler also contributed to the film's music. Boyd sings on screen as Faramir charges towards Osgiliath, Mortensen sings on screen as he is crowned King, and in the Extended Edition Tyler sings as Aragorn heals Éowyn.
Renée Fleming, Ben Del Maestro and Sir James Galway also contribute to the soundtrack. Fleming sings as Arwen has a vision of her son and when Gollum recovers the One Ring. Del Maestro sings when Gandalf lights his staff to save fleeing Gondorian soldiers from Osgiliath as the Nazgûl attack. Galway plays the flute as Frodo and Sam climb Mount Doom. The end title song, "Into the West", was composed by Shore with lyrics by Fran Walsh. Annie Lennox (formerly of Eurythmics) performed it and also received songwriting credit. The song was partially inspired by the premature death from cancer of a young New Zealand filmmaker named Cameron Duncan who'd befriended Peter Jackson.
The Sound department spent the early part of the year searching for the right sounds. A tasmanian devil was Shelob's shriek, which in turn gave inspiration for Weta's animators, whilst the mûmakil is the beginning and end of a lion roar. Human screams and a donkey screech were mixed into Sauron's fall, and to avoid comparison with 9/11, broken glass was used for the collapsing sounds. For missile trading during Minas Tirith's siege, construction workers dropped stone blocks. Mixing began at a new studio on August 15, although unfinished building work caused some annoyances. The mixers finished on November 15, after three months of non-stop work.
Reception
After two years of attention and acclaim since the release of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, audience anticipation for the final installment of the trilogy had reached fever pitch when the movie was complete. The world premiere was held in Wellington's Embassy Theatre, on December 1, 2003, and was attended by the director and many of the stars. It was estimated that over 100,000 people lined the streets, more than a quarter of the city's population.
The music was composed by Howard Shore, who previously composed the first two parts of the trilogy. Shore watched the assembly cut of the film, and had to write seven minutes of music per day to keep up with the schedule. The score sees the full introduction of the Gondor theme, originally heard during Boromir's speeches at the Council of Elrond in The Fellowship of the Ring and at Osgiliath in The Two Towers Extended Edition. Actors Billy Boyd, Viggo Mortensen and Liv Tyler also contributed to the film's music. Boyd sings on screen as Faramir charges towards Osgiliath, Mortensen sings on screen as he is crowned King, and in the Extended Edition Tyler sings as Aragorn heals Éowyn.
Renée Fleming, Ben Del Maestro and Sir James Galway also contribute to the soundtrack. Fleming sings as Arwen has a vision of her son and when Gollum recovers the One Ring. Del Maestro sings when Gandalf lights his staff to save fleeing Gondorian soldiers from Osgiliath as the Nazgûl attack. Galway plays the flute as Frodo and Sam climb Mount Doom. The end title song, "Into the West", was composed by Shore with lyrics by Fran Walsh. Annie Lennox (formerly of Eurythmics) performed it and also received songwriting credit. The song was partially inspired by the premature death from cancer of a young New Zealand filmmaker named Cameron Duncan who'd befriended Peter Jackson.
The Sound department spent the early part of the year searching for the right sounds. A tasmanian devil was Shelob's shriek, which in turn gave inspiration for Weta's animators, whilst the mûmakil is the beginning and end of a lion roar. Human screams and a donkey screech were mixed into Sauron's fall, and to avoid comparison with 9/11, broken glass was used for the collapsing sounds. For missile trading during Minas Tirith's siege, construction workers dropped stone blocks. Mixing began at a new studio on August 15, although unfinished building work caused some annoyances. The mixers finished on November 15, after three months of non-stop work.
Reception
After two years of attention and acclaim since the release of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, audience anticipation for the final installment of the trilogy had reached fever pitch when the movie was complete. The world premiere was held in Wellington's Embassy Theatre, on December 1, 2003, and was attended by the director and many of the stars. It was estimated that over 100,000 people lined the streets, more than a quarter of the city's population.
Critics
The film has a 94% rating of positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. Richard Corliss of Time named it as the best film of the year. The main criticism of The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, was its running time, particularly the epilogue. Even rave reviews for the film commented on its length. Joel Siegel of Good Morning America said in his review for the movie (which he gave an 'A'): "If it didn't take forty-five minutes to end, it'd be my best picture of the year. As it is, it's just one of the great achievements in film history." There was also criticism regarding the Army of the Dead's appearance, rapidly ending the Battle of the Pelennor Fields.
In February 2004, a few months after release, the film was voted as #8 on Empire's 100 Greatest Movies of All Time, compiled from readers' top 10 lists. This forced the magazine to abandon its policy of films being older than 12 months to be eligible. In 2007, Total Film named The Return of the King the third best film of the past decade (Total Film's publication time), behind The Matrix and Fight Club.
Box office
New Line Cinema reported that the film's first day saw a U.S. box office total of $34.5 million — an all-time single-day record for a motion picture released on a Wednesday, until Spider-Man 2 grossed $40.4 million. Whereas The Return of the King opened around Christmas time, Spider-Man 2 opened in the middle of summer. This was nearly twice the first-day total of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (which earned $18.2 million on its opening day in 2001), and a significant increase over The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers as well (which earned $26.1 million on its debut in 2002). Part of the grosses came from the Trilogy Tuesday event, in which the Extended Editions of the first two films were played on December 16 before the first midnight screening.
The final North American box office stands at $377 million and the worldwide take is $1.1 billion (about $741 million overseas). It was the second film in history to earn over $1 billion in box office revenue in its initial release (the first being Titanic in 1997 and after The Return of the King, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest also achieved this feat). This compares favourably to the first two films of the trilogy: in their first 35 weeks of theatrical release in North America, the gross income of the first two movies was $313,364,114 and $339,789,881. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, has helped The Lord of the Rings franchise go on to become the highest grossing motion picture trilogy worldwide of all time, besting other notables such as the Star Wars trilogies.
These figures do not include income from DVD sales, TV rights, etc. It has been estimated that the gross income from non-box office sales and merchandise has been at least equal to the box office for all three films. If this is so, the total gross income for the trilogy would be in the region of $6 billion, a very respectable return for a $300 million ($426 million including marketing costs) investment.
Compared to the profits of other films, The Return of the King is probably one of the most lucrative movie investments of all time. Including marketing costs, it made a 1408% profit over the original outlay from New Line Studios. Comparatively, John Carpenter's Halloween made $55 million worldwide from a $325,000 budget, giving it above a 16,000% profit. The Blair Witch Project (including marketing costs of $25 million) made a profit of 992% and Titanic, the highest grossing film of all time, made a profit of 768% over production and marketing costs.
The film has a 94% rating of positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. Richard Corliss of Time named it as the best film of the year. The main criticism of The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, was its running time, particularly the epilogue. Even rave reviews for the film commented on its length. Joel Siegel of Good Morning America said in his review for the movie (which he gave an 'A'): "If it didn't take forty-five minutes to end, it'd be my best picture of the year. As it is, it's just one of the great achievements in film history." There was also criticism regarding the Army of the Dead's appearance, rapidly ending the Battle of the Pelennor Fields.
In February 2004, a few months after release, the film was voted as #8 on Empire's 100 Greatest Movies of All Time, compiled from readers' top 10 lists. This forced the magazine to abandon its policy of films being older than 12 months to be eligible. In 2007, Total Film named The Return of the King the third best film of the past decade (Total Film's publication time), behind The Matrix and Fight Club.
Box office
New Line Cinema reported that the film's first day saw a U.S. box office total of $34.5 million — an all-time single-day record for a motion picture released on a Wednesday, until Spider-Man 2 grossed $40.4 million. Whereas The Return of the King opened around Christmas time, Spider-Man 2 opened in the middle of summer. This was nearly twice the first-day total of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (which earned $18.2 million on its opening day in 2001), and a significant increase over The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers as well (which earned $26.1 million on its debut in 2002). Part of the grosses came from the Trilogy Tuesday event, in which the Extended Editions of the first two films were played on December 16 before the first midnight screening.
The final North American box office stands at $377 million and the worldwide take is $1.1 billion (about $741 million overseas). It was the second film in history to earn over $1 billion in box office revenue in its initial release (the first being Titanic in 1997 and after The Return of the King, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest also achieved this feat). This compares favourably to the first two films of the trilogy: in their first 35 weeks of theatrical release in North America, the gross income of the first two movies was $313,364,114 and $339,789,881. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, has helped The Lord of the Rings franchise go on to become the highest grossing motion picture trilogy worldwide of all time, besting other notables such as the Star Wars trilogies.
These figures do not include income from DVD sales, TV rights, etc. It has been estimated that the gross income from non-box office sales and merchandise has been at least equal to the box office for all three films. If this is so, the total gross income for the trilogy would be in the region of $6 billion, a very respectable return for a $300 million ($426 million including marketing costs) investment.
Compared to the profits of other films, The Return of the King is probably one of the most lucrative movie investments of all time. Including marketing costs, it made a 1408% profit over the original outlay from New Line Studios. Comparatively, John Carpenter's Halloween made $55 million worldwide from a $325,000 budget, giving it above a 16,000% profit. The Blair Witch Project (including marketing costs of $25 million) made a profit of 992% and Titanic, the highest grossing film of all time, made a profit of 768% over production and marketing costs.
Awards
On January 27, 2004, the film was nominated for eleven Academy Awards, including the Academy Award for Best Picture, Directing, Adapted Screenplay, Original Score, Song, Visual Effects, Art Direction, Costuming, Make-up, Sound Mixing and Film Editing. On February 29, the film won all the categories for which it was nominated. It tied with Ben-Hur and Titanic for the most Oscars ever won by a single film, and broke the previous record for a sweep set by Gigi and The Last Emperor .
However, none of the ensemble cast received any acting nominations, the first Best Picture since 1995's Braveheart to have not received any. The film was the first in the fantasy film genre to win the Best Picture award. It was also only the second time a sequel had won the Best Picture category; the first being The Godfather, Part II. Furthermore, after winning all 11 of its nominations, the film broke a record previously set by the film Gigi which had previously set the record for winning all 9 of its nominations. It was also the first time that the third movie in a trilogy has won for Best Picture.
The film won also four Golden Globes, five BAFTAs, two MTV Movie Awards, two Grammy Awards, nine Saturn Awards and the Hugo Award. It is among the most-honored fantasy films in history.
On January 27, 2004, the film was nominated for eleven Academy Awards, including the Academy Award for Best Picture, Directing, Adapted Screenplay, Original Score, Song, Visual Effects, Art Direction, Costuming, Make-up, Sound Mixing and Film Editing. On February 29, the film won all the categories for which it was nominated. It tied with Ben-Hur and Titanic for the most Oscars ever won by a single film, and broke the previous record for a sweep set by Gigi and The Last Emperor .
However, none of the ensemble cast received any acting nominations, the first Best Picture since 1995's Braveheart to have not received any. The film was the first in the fantasy film genre to win the Best Picture award. It was also only the second time a sequel had won the Best Picture category; the first being The Godfather, Part II. Furthermore, after winning all 11 of its nominations, the film broke a record previously set by the film Gigi which had previously set the record for winning all 9 of its nominations. It was also the first time that the third movie in a trilogy has won for Best Picture.
The film won also four Golden Globes, five BAFTAs, two MTV Movie Awards, two Grammy Awards, nine Saturn Awards and the Hugo Award. It is among the most-honored fantasy films in history.
DVD releases
The theatrical edition of the movie was released on DVD on May 25, 2004. The DVD was a 2-disc set with extras on the second disc. The theatrical DVD sets for the two prequels were released eight months after the films were released, but Return of the King's set was completed in five because it did not have to market a sequel (the previous films had to wait for footage of their sequels to become available for a ten minute preview). However, it contained a 7 minute trailer of the entire trilogy.
The Return of the King did follow the precedent set by its predecessors by releasing an Extended Edition (252 minutes) with new editing, and added special effects and music, along with four commentaries and six hours of supplementary material. However, this set took longer to produce than the others because the cast and crew were spread all over the world working on other projects. The set was finally released on December 10, 2004 in the UK and December 14 in the U.S.. The final ten minutes comprises a listing of the charter members of the official fan club who had paid for three-year charter membership. A collectors' box set was also released, which included the Extended Set plus a sculpture of Minas Tirith and a bonus 50-minute music documentary DVD, Howard Shore: Creating The Lord of the Rings Symphony: A Composer's Journey Through Middle-earth. The DVD has a DTS-ES soundtrack. The DVD also features two humorous Easter Eggs, one where Dominic Monaghan plays a German interviewer with Elijah Wood over a phone, and another where Vince Vaughn and Ben Stiller attempt to convince Jackson to make a sequel, originally shown at the 2004 MTV Movie Awards. Both can be accessed via a Ring icon on the last page of both Disc 1 and 2's scene indexes.
On August 29, 2006, a Limited Edition of The Return of the King was released. This Limited Edition contains two discs. The first is a two-sided DVD (also known as DVD-18) that contains both the Theatrical and Extended editions of the film. At the beginning of each side of the disc, the viewer can choose which version to watch. The second disc is a bonus disc that contains a new behind-the-scenes documentary.
Additional scenes
There is some extra dialogue in Merry and Pippin's first scene at Isengard reuniting them with Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli. There is also the final confrontation between Gandalf and Saruman, in which Saruman is killed by Wormtongue, who in turn is killed by Legolas. Saruman lands on a spike on a wheel and drops the palantír. Edoras is extended, with the party containing a drinking game between Legolas and Gimli. Right before Pippin takes the palantír, Aragorn enters the Great Hall and has a conversation with Éowyn about a dream she had, about a great wave over a green countryside, which was originally Faramir's dream in the book.
At Minas Tirith, Pippin explains to Denethor how Boromir died, and Gandalf explains to Pippin how Gondor fell into ruin. Frodo, Sam and Gollum discover a ruined and defaced statue at the Crossroads. When the Morgul signal for war begins, Sam warns Gollum about betrayal, eventually setting up the separation. When the Orcs cross the river it is shown that the Gondorians were surprised, expecting an attack at Cair Andros. To further set up the battle, we also see Merry swearing loyalty to Théoden at Edoras after the lighting of the beacons. After Faramir arrives in Minas Tirith, there is a scene where Denethor confronts him for not taking the Ring, which includes his vision of Boromir. There is a friendly chat between Pippin and Faramir which sets up Pippin's later attempts to rescue him.
The Paths of the Dead sequence is heavily revised, with ghostly arms, the avalanche of skulls and Aragorn's emergence from the mountain where the King of the Dead accepts his offer. This leads to Aragorn attacking the Corsair ships, which includes a cameo by Peter Jackson as a character killed by Legolas. During the siege of Minas Tirith, the Orcs use a small battering ram on the gates before Grond arrives, and Gandalf's confronts the Witch-king as he comes to rescue Faramir, when his staff is broken. Gothmog also fights Éowyn during the battle, and attempts to finish her off as the battle closes before he is killed by Aragorn and Gimli.
The scenes between the end of the Pelennor battle and Black Gate battle is longer. Pippin's search for Merry is digitally graded to night to give the impression he has been searching for him all day. Éomer also finds Éowyn on the field and mourns when he thinks she is dead. Aragorn heals her and she falls for Faramir. Before Aragorn sets off, he confronts Sauron in the palantír, however Sauron shows Aragorn an image of an unconscious Arwen, which frightens Aragorn into backing away. Sam and Frodo get more time in Mordor: the fight among the orcs in the tower of Cirith Ungol is longer, and after Sam rescues Frodo, we see a surviving Uruk sneaking off with Frodo's mithril shirt. Frodo and Sam are also diverted into the Orc march to the Black Gate and escape on a long journey, during which they throw away the last of their gear. Sam also sees a star through the clouds, symbolizing hope whilst Frodo merely rests with a burn on his neck. At the Black Gate, Aragorn, Gandalf, Legolas, Gimli, Pippin, Merry, and Éomer are first confronted by the Mouth of Sauron, suggesting that Frodo is dead, providing additional meaning to Aragorn's line "For Frodo". There is a final line of dialogue in which Gollum admits he lied about protecting Frodo.
The theatrical edition of the movie was released on DVD on May 25, 2004. The DVD was a 2-disc set with extras on the second disc. The theatrical DVD sets for the two prequels were released eight months after the films were released, but Return of the King's set was completed in five because it did not have to market a sequel (the previous films had to wait for footage of their sequels to become available for a ten minute preview). However, it contained a 7 minute trailer of the entire trilogy.
The Return of the King did follow the precedent set by its predecessors by releasing an Extended Edition (252 minutes) with new editing, and added special effects and music, along with four commentaries and six hours of supplementary material. However, this set took longer to produce than the others because the cast and crew were spread all over the world working on other projects. The set was finally released on December 10, 2004 in the UK and December 14 in the U.S.. The final ten minutes comprises a listing of the charter members of the official fan club who had paid for three-year charter membership. A collectors' box set was also released, which included the Extended Set plus a sculpture of Minas Tirith and a bonus 50-minute music documentary DVD, Howard Shore: Creating The Lord of the Rings Symphony: A Composer's Journey Through Middle-earth. The DVD has a DTS-ES soundtrack. The DVD also features two humorous Easter Eggs, one where Dominic Monaghan plays a German interviewer with Elijah Wood over a phone, and another where Vince Vaughn and Ben Stiller attempt to convince Jackson to make a sequel, originally shown at the 2004 MTV Movie Awards. Both can be accessed via a Ring icon on the last page of both Disc 1 and 2's scene indexes.
On August 29, 2006, a Limited Edition of The Return of the King was released. This Limited Edition contains two discs. The first is a two-sided DVD (also known as DVD-18) that contains both the Theatrical and Extended editions of the film. At the beginning of each side of the disc, the viewer can choose which version to watch. The second disc is a bonus disc that contains a new behind-the-scenes documentary.
Additional scenes
There is some extra dialogue in Merry and Pippin's first scene at Isengard reuniting them with Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli. There is also the final confrontation between Gandalf and Saruman, in which Saruman is killed by Wormtongue, who in turn is killed by Legolas. Saruman lands on a spike on a wheel and drops the palantír. Edoras is extended, with the party containing a drinking game between Legolas and Gimli. Right before Pippin takes the palantír, Aragorn enters the Great Hall and has a conversation with Éowyn about a dream she had, about a great wave over a green countryside, which was originally Faramir's dream in the book.
At Minas Tirith, Pippin explains to Denethor how Boromir died, and Gandalf explains to Pippin how Gondor fell into ruin. Frodo, Sam and Gollum discover a ruined and defaced statue at the Crossroads. When the Morgul signal for war begins, Sam warns Gollum about betrayal, eventually setting up the separation. When the Orcs cross the river it is shown that the Gondorians were surprised, expecting an attack at Cair Andros. To further set up the battle, we also see Merry swearing loyalty to Théoden at Edoras after the lighting of the beacons. After Faramir arrives in Minas Tirith, there is a scene where Denethor confronts him for not taking the Ring, which includes his vision of Boromir. There is a friendly chat between Pippin and Faramir which sets up Pippin's later attempts to rescue him.
The Paths of the Dead sequence is heavily revised, with ghostly arms, the avalanche of skulls and Aragorn's emergence from the mountain where the King of the Dead accepts his offer. This leads to Aragorn attacking the Corsair ships, which includes a cameo by Peter Jackson as a character killed by Legolas. During the siege of Minas Tirith, the Orcs use a small battering ram on the gates before Grond arrives, and Gandalf's confronts the Witch-king as he comes to rescue Faramir, when his staff is broken. Gothmog also fights Éowyn during the battle, and attempts to finish her off as the battle closes before he is killed by Aragorn and Gimli.
The scenes between the end of the Pelennor battle and Black Gate battle is longer. Pippin's search for Merry is digitally graded to night to give the impression he has been searching for him all day. Éomer also finds Éowyn on the field and mourns when he thinks she is dead. Aragorn heals her and she falls for Faramir. Before Aragorn sets off, he confronts Sauron in the palantír, however Sauron shows Aragorn an image of an unconscious Arwen, which frightens Aragorn into backing away. Sam and Frodo get more time in Mordor: the fight among the orcs in the tower of Cirith Ungol is longer, and after Sam rescues Frodo, we see a surviving Uruk sneaking off with Frodo's mithril shirt. Frodo and Sam are also diverted into the Orc march to the Black Gate and escape on a long journey, during which they throw away the last of their gear. Sam also sees a star through the clouds, symbolizing hope whilst Frodo merely rests with a burn on his neck. At the Black Gate, Aragorn, Gandalf, Legolas, Gimli, Pippin, Merry, and Éomer are first confronted by the Mouth of Sauron, suggesting that Frodo is dead, providing additional meaning to Aragorn's line "For Frodo". There is a final line of dialogue in which Gollum admits he lied about protecting Frodo.
3. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006)
(Collections: $1,060,332,628)
(Collections: $1,060,332,628)
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest is a 2006 adventure film of the Pirates of the Caribbean series, the sequel to the 2003 film Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl. The film was directed by Gore Verbinski, written by Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio, and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer.
The story picks up from where the first film left off when Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) discovers his debt to the villainous Davy Jones (Bill Nighy) is due, while Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) and Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) are arrested by Lord Cutler Beckett (Tom Hollander) for helping Jack Sparrow escape execution.
The film was shot back-to-back with the third film during 2005, and was released in Australia and the United Kingdom on July 6, 2006, and in the United States and Canada on July 7, 2006. The film received mixed reviews, with praise for its special effects and criticism for its complex story and lengthy running time. Despite this, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest set several records in its first three days, with an opening weekend of $136 million in the United States, and became the third movie to gross over $1 billion in the worldwide box office.
Story and Plot Pointt
The East India Trading Company arrives in Port Royal, Jamaica to extend its monopoly in the Caribbean and purge piracy. Leading the expansion is Lord Cutler Beckett, a powerful and ruthless EITC agent who arrests Elizabeth Swann and Will Turner shortly before their wedding. Beckett threatens to execute them and the absent ex-Commodore James Norrington for aiding Captain Jack Sparrow's escape, but he offers clemency if Will agrees to search for Sparrow and his magical compass. An informant in Tortuga leads Will to the Black Pearl run aground on Pelegosto, a cannibal-inhabited island where Jack and his crew are captive. Jack hid there after he was visited by his former crewmate, "Bootstrap Bill" Turner, who is now an indentured sailor aboard Captain Davy Jones' ghost ship, the Flying Dutchman. Bootstrap delivered Jack the Black Spot, a mark that signifies his debt to Jones is due. Thirteen years before, Jones raised the Black Pearl from the ocean depths and made Jack its captain. In exchange, Jack must now serve aboard the Flying Dutchman for 100 years.
Will, Jack, and the crew escape their Pelegosto captors, unexpectedly recruiting Pintel and Ragetti as they are attempting to commandeer the Black Pearl, and head for sea. Jack has been searching for a key that leads to untold riches, but his magical compass has failed. He agrees to give Will the compass if he helps him find a key and what it unlocks. Seeking assistance from Tia Dalma, a voodoo priestess, Jack learns the compass will not work because he does not know what he truly wants, or is unable to claim it as his own. The key, Tia tells him, unlocks the Dead Man's Chest containing Davy Jones' beating heart. When the pain of lost love became too much to bear, Jones carved the heart from his chest, burying it in a secret location. Whoever possesses the heart controls Davy Jones, thereby controlling the world's oceans. Back at sea, the Flying Dutchman encounters Sparrow, who deviously attempts to barter Will in exchange for himself. Jones demands 99 souls within three days for Jack’s freedom and keeps Will as a "good faith payment".
In Port Royal, Governor Weatherby Swann frees Elizabeth. Confronting Beckett at gunpoint, she forces him to validate a Letter of Marque—a royal document with which Beckett intends to recruit Sparrow as a privateer, and which Elizabeth wants for Will. Stowing away on a merchant vessel, Elizabeth lands in Tortuga where she finds Jack and Gibbs desperately recruiting unsuspecting sailors in a pub to pay off his debt. A disheveled Norrington also applies. Blaming Sparrow for his ruin, he tries to shoot the captain and ignites a brawl. Elizabeth knocks him out to save him from the angry mob. At the pier, Jack reveals the compass' secret to Elizabeth; it points to what the holder wants most in the world. When he convinces her that she can save Will by finding the chest, she gets a bearing. Once the ship is underway, an attraction arises between Jack and Elizabeth.
On Isla Cruces, Jack, Norrington, and Elizabeth find the Dead Man's Chest. Will, who has escaped the Flying Dutchman with help from his father, Bootstrap Bill, arrives with the key that he stole from Davy Jones. Will wants to stab the heart to free his father, but Jack cannot allow that in fear of the Kraken being uncontrollable if Jones is dead, and Norrington desires it to give to Lord Beckett as a way of regaining his rank as well as using Elizabeth's Letters of Marque. The three, each desperate to gain the chest, begin a three-way duel; the arrival of Jones' crew and Pintel and Ragetti's attempt to make off with the chest further complicate matters. It is Norrington who ultimately escapes with the heart and the Letters of Marque while Jones’ crewmen retrieve the now-empty Dead Man's Chest.
The Flying Dutchman pursues the Black Pearl, but with the wind behind them, the Black Pearl outruns her. Jones ends the pursuit and instead summons the Kraken. In a moment of cowardice, or perhaps in an attempt to retrieve the heart of Davy Jones, Jack abandons the Black Pearl in a longboat and starts rowing back to Isla Cruces; but unable to desert his crew, he returns in time to save them. He gives the order to abandon ship before the Kraken makes its final assault. Realising the Kraken is only hunting Jack, a deceptive Elizabeth passionately kisses him while handcuffing him to the mast. Racked with guilt over her betrayal, she tells the others Jack chose to remain behind, unaware Will saw the kiss and now believes she loves Sparrow. Freeing himself from the shackles, Jack charges the Kraken; the colossal beast drags him and the Black Pearl to a watery grave.
Watching from his ship, Davy Jones declares their debt settled, although he soon discovers the chest is empty. Norrington, meanwhile, makes his way to Port Royal and delivers the heart and the Letters of Marque to Cutler Beckett in a bid to regain his career. Elizabeth, Will, and the surviving Black Pearl crew seek refuge with Tia Dalma. She asks if they would be willing to save Jack from Davy Jones' Locker. When all say, "Aye," Tia Dalma sends the crew on their next journey to World's End to rescue Jack with a captain who knows those waters - Captain Barbossa.
Cast
Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow: Captain of the Black Pearl. He is hunted by the Kraken because of his unpaid blood debt to Davy Jones. He is searching for the Dead Man's Chest to free himself from Jones' servitude.
Orlando Bloom as Will Turner: A blacksmith turned pirate who strikes a deal with Cutler Beckett to find Jack Sparrow and his compass so he can save himself and his fiancée Elizabeth from execution. Later he is reunited with and seeks to free his father, who owes a lifetime of service to Davy Jones.
Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Swann: Governor Swann's daughter and Will's fiancée, who is arrested on her wedding day for helping Jack Sparrow escape. Escaping jail with help from her father, she meets up with Jack in Tortuga and joins his crew to search for Will and the chest.
Bill Nighy as Davy Jones: Captain of the Flying Dutchman. Davy Jones was human long ago. Unable to bear the pain of losing his true love, he carved out his heart and put it into the Dead Man's Chest, then buried it in a secret location. He has become a bizarre creature; part octopus, part crab, part man, and collects the souls of dead or dying sailors to serve aboard his ship for one hundred years.
Jack Davenport as James Norrington: He resigned his commission as Commodore in the Royal Navy after losing his ship and crew in a hurricane in the pursuit of captain Jack Sparrow. Fallen on hard times and into alcoholism, he joins the Black Pearl's crew and seeks to regain his honour and career.
Stellan Skarsgård as "Bootstrap Bill" Turner: A crewman aboard the Flying Dutchman and Will Turner's father. He was cursed by the Aztec gold on Isla de Muerta. Thrown overboard after refusing to take part in the mutiny against Jack led by Barbossa, he spent years bound to a cannon beneath the crushing ocean. Found by Davy Jones, he swore to the Flying Dutchman crew and escaped death.
Kevin McNally as Joshamee Gibbs: The Black Pearl's first mate and Jack's loyal friend, he once served in the Royal Navy under Lieutenant James Norrington.
Tom Hollander as Lord Cutler Beckett: Chairman of the East India Trading Company, he travels to Port Royal to capture and recruit Jack Sparrow as a privateer. What he really desires is Davy Jones' heart, with which he can rule the seas with Jones' commanded servitude.
Lee Arenberg as Pintel: A pirate and former Black Pearl crew member under Captain Barbossa. He was imprisoned after the Aztec curse was broken, but escapes to rejoin Jack Sparrow's Black Pearl crew.
Mackenzie Crook as Ragetti: Pintel's inseparable crewmate. He has a wooden eye, and despite being illiterate, has begun "reading" the Bible, saying that you get credit for trying.
Naomie Harris as Tia Dalma: A voodoo priestess who bartered Jack Sparrow his magic compass. She explains the legend of Davy Jones and owns a similar locket to his. She also reveals to the crew when they return to her shack after the Kraken takes down the Pearl that there is a way they can save Jack and Hector Barbossa is alive.
Jonathan Pryce as Governor Weatherby Swann. Elizabeth's father and governor of Port Royal. He adores his daughter but puts little faith in Will and does not consider him the best match for Elizabeth.
Production
Following the success of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003), the cast and crew signed on for two more sequels to be shot back-to-back, a practical decision on Disney's part to allow more time with the same cast and crew. Writer Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio decided not to make the sequels new adventures featuring the same characters, as with the Indiana Jones and James Bond series, but to retroactively turn The Curse of the Black Pearl into the first of a trilogy. They wanted to explore the reality of what would happen after Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann's embrace at the end of the first film, and initially considered the Fountain of Youth as the plot device. They settled on introducing Davy Jones, the Flying Dutchman and the Kraken, a mythology only mentioned once in the first film. They also introduced the historical East India Trading Company, who for them represented a counterpoint to the themes of personal freedom represented by pirates.
Planning on the film began in June 2004, and production was much larger than The Curse of the Black Pearl, which was only shot on location in St. Vincent. This time, the sequels would require fully working ships, with a working Black Pearl built over the body of an oil tanker in Bayou La Batre, Alabama. By November, the script was still unfinished as the writers did not want director Gore Verbinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer to compromise what they had written, so Verbinski worked with James Byrkit to storyboard major sequences without need of a script, while Elliott and Rossio wrote a "preparory" script for the crew to use before they finished the script they were happy with. By January 2005, with rising costs and no script, Disney threatened to cancel the film, but changed their minds. The writers would accompany the crew on location, feeling that the lateness of their rewrites would improve the spontaneity of the cast's performances.
Filming
Filming for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest began on February 28, 2005, in Palos Verdes, beginning with Elizabeth's ruined wedding day. The crew spent the first shooting days at Walt Disney Studios in Los Angeles, including the interiors of the Black Pearl and the Edinburgh Trader which Elizabeth stows away on, before moving to St. Vincent to shoot the scenes in Port Royal and Tortuga. Sets from the previous film were reused, having survived three hurricanes, although the main pier had to be rebuilt as it had collapsed in November. The crew had four tall ships at their disposal to populate the backgrounds, which were painted differently on each side for economy. One of the ships used was the replica of the HMS Bounty used in the 1962 film adaptation of Mutiny on the Bounty.
On April 18, 2005, the crew began shooting at Dominica, a location Verbinski had selected as he felt it fitted the sense of remoteness he was looking for. That was exactly the problem during production: the undeveloped Dominican government were completely unprepared for the scale of a Hollywood production, with the 500-strong crew occupying around 90% of the roads on the island and having trouble moving around on the undeveloped roads. The weather also alternated between torrential rainstorms and hot temperatures, the latter of which was made worse for the cast who had to wear period clothing. At Dominica, the sequences involving the Pelegosto and the forest segment of the battle on Isla Cruces were shot. Verbinski preferred to use practical props for the giant wheel and bone cage sequences, feeling long close-up shots would help further suspend the audience's disbelief. Dominica was also used for Tia Dalma's shack, and filming on the island concluded on May 26, 2005. The crew moved to a small island called White Cay in the Bahamas for the beginning and end of the Isla Cruces battle, before production took a break until August, where in Los Angeles the interiors of the Flying Dutchman were shot.
On September 18, 2005, the crew moved to Grand Bahama Island to shoot ship exteriors, including the working Black Pearl and Flying Dutchman. Filming there was a tumultuous period, starting with the fact that the tank had not actually been finished. The hurricane season caused many pauses in shooting, and Hurricane Wilma damaged many of the accessways and pumps, though no one was hurt nor were any of the ships destroyed. Filming of the second film was completed on February 7, 2006.
Special effects
The Flying Dutchman's crew were originally conceived by writers Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio as ghosts, but Gore Verbinski disliked this and designed them as physical creatures. Their hierarchy is reflected by how mutated they were: newcomers had low level infections which resemble rosacea, while the most mutated had full-blown undersea creature attributes. Verbinski wanted to keep them realistic, rejecting a character with a turtle shell, and the animators watched various David Attenborough documentaries to study the movement of sea anemones and mussels. All of the crew are computer-generated, with the exception of Stellan Skarsgård, who played "Bootstrap" Bill Turner. Initially his prosthetics would be augmented with CGI but that was abandoned. Skarsgård spent four hours in the make-up chair and was dubbed "Bouillabaisse" on set.
Captain Davy Jones himself had originally been designed with chin growths, before the designers made the move to full-blown tentacles; the skin of the character is based on a blurred version of the texture of a coffee-stained styrofoam cup. To portray Jones on set, Bill Nighy wore a motion capture tracksuit that meant the animators at Industrial Light & Magic did not have to reshoot the scene in the studio without him or on the motion capture stage. Nighy wore make-up around his eyes and mouth to splice into the computer-generated shots, but they were never used, and Nighy only ever wore a prosthetic once, with blue-coloured tentacles for when Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) steals the key to the Dead Man's Chest from under his "beard" as he sleeps. To create the CG version of the character, the model was closely based on a full-body scan of Nighy, with Jones reflecting his high cheekbones. Animators studied every frame of Nighy's performance: the actor himself had blessed them by making his performance more quirky than expected, providing endless fun for them. His performance also meant new controls had to be stored. Finally, Jones' tentacles are mostly a simulation, though at times they were hand-animated when they act as limbs for the character.
The Kraken was difficult to animate as it had no real-life reference, until animation director Hal Hickel instructed the crew to watch King Kong vs. Godzilla which had a real octopus (Oodako) crawling over miniatures. On set, two pipes filled with 30,000 pounds of cement were used to crash and split the Edinburgh Trader: Completing the illusion are miniature masts and falling stuntmen shot on a bluescreen stage. The scene where the Kraken spits at Jack Sparrow does not use computer-generated spit: it was real gunge thrown at Johnny Depp.
Release and reception
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest premiered at Disneyland in Anaheim, California on June 24, 2006. It was the first Disney film to use the new computer-generated Disney production logo.
The film became available on DVD on December 5, 2006 for Region 1, and sold 10.5 million copies in its first week of sales, thus becoming the biggest home video debut of 2006. The versions for Regions 2 and 4 had already been released on November 15, 2006 and November 20, 2006, respectively. The DVD, incompatible with some Region 1 hardware DVD Players due to the use of ARccOS Protection, came in single and two-disc versions. Both contained an commentary track with the screenwriters and a gag reel, with the double-disc featuring a video of the film premiere and a number of documentaries, including a full-length documentary entitled "According to the Plan" and eight featurettes. The film was released on Blu-ray Dis on May 22, 2007.
Box office
The film broke two North American records upon release, largest opening day gross with $55.8 million, beating the previous year's Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith by 11% , and biggest opening weekend gross with $135.6 million, beating 2002's Spider-Man (both records were surpassed by the following year's Spider-Man 3). The film set 15 other box office records, including the fastest film to reach $200 and $300 million, the highest ten-day gross, and the fastest film to reach $1 billion worldwide.
The film ended with $423 million domestically and just over $1 billion worldwide, becoming the 6th highest grossing film domestically and the third highest worldwide, behind Titanic and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. Adjusted for inflation, the film is the 44th highest grossing domestically.
Critical reaction
After months of anticipation and industry hype, reviews for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest were mixed, as the film scored a 54% "Rotten" rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Among the positive critics were Michael Booth of the Denver Post, who awarded the film three-and-a-half stars out of four, praising it as "two hours and 20 minutes of escapism that once again makes the movies safe for guilt-free fun." Drew McWeeny was highly positive, comparing the film to The Empire Strikes Back, and also acclaimed its darkness in its depiction of the crew of the Flying Dutchman and its cliffhanger. The completely computer-generated Davy Jones turned out to be so realistic that some reviewers mistakenly identified Nighy as wearing prosthetic makeup.
On the other hand, critic Michael Medved gave the film two stars out of four, calling the plot "sloppy, ...convoluted and insipid." Paul Arendt of the BBC negatively compared it to The Matrix Reloaded, as a complex film that merely led onto the next film. Following the release of Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, some reviewers looked back at the second film as having a minuscule role in the storyline: Russ Fischer criticised screenwriters Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio for not making anything bar the cliffhanger matter too much in the third film, with Todd Gilchrist pointing out the cannibal encounter as completely unnecessary. Richard George felt a "better construct of Dead Man's Chest and At World's End would have been to take 90 minutes of Chest, mix it with all of End and then cut that film in two." Alex Billington felt the third film, "almost makes the second film in the series obsolete or dulls it down enough that we can accept it in our trilogy DVD collections without ever watching it."
Controversy
Walt Disney Pictures has been questioned by the National Garifuna Council, a representative body of the Garifuna people, for what they feel is a racist portrayal of the Calinago, or Caribs, as cannibals in Dead Man's Chest. The Council called for what they considered to be a fair and accurate representation, and Disney responded that the script could not be altered. No known changes were made to the film.
Awards
At the 79th annual Academy Awards, visual effects supervisors John Knoll, Hal Hickel, Charles Gibson and Allen Hall won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects. The film was also nominated for Best Art Direction, Sound Editing and Sound Mixing.
The film also won a BAFTA and Satellite award for Best Visual Effects, and six awards from the Visual Effects Society.
Other awards won by the film include Choice Movie: Action Adventure, Choice Drama/Action Adventure Movie, Actor for Johnny Depp at the 2006 Teen Choice Awards; Favorite Movie, Dramatic Movie, Male Actor for Depp and On-Screen Couple for Depp and Keira Knightley at the 2006 People's Choice Awards; Best Movie and Performance for Depp at the 2007 MTV Movie Awards and Best Special Effects at the Saturn Awards.
4. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001)
(Collections: $968,657,891)
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, released in the United States as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, is a 2001 fantasy/adventure film based on the novel of the same name by J.K. Rowling. Directed by Chris Columbus, it is the first in the popular Harry Potter films series. The story follows Harry Potter, a boy who discovers he is a wizard on his eleventh birthday, and is sent to the magic school Hogwarts.The film stars Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, alongside Rupert Grint and Emma Watson as Harry's best friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. The adult cast features Richard Harris, Maggie Smith, Robbie Coltrane, Alan Rickman and Ian Hart.
Warner Bros. bought the film rights to the book in 1999. Production began in 2000, with Columbus being chosen from a short list of directors to create the film. Rowling insisted that the entire cast be British, in keeping with the cultural integrity of the book and the film. Rowling also approved the screenplay, written by Steve Kloves. The film shot primarily at Leavesden Film Studios, as well as historic buildings around the country, and was released in the United Kingdom and the United States on November 16, 2001. Along with mostly positive critical reception, it made in excess of US$976 million at the worldwide box office and received three Academy Award nominations. The second, third, fourth, and fifth books have also been adapted into successful films, with the sixth and seventh confirmed.
Story and Plot Point
Harry Potter is seemingly an ordinary eleven-year-old boy, living with his ultra-conventional, insensitive, negligent relatives, the Dursleys. But his eleventh birthday, Harry learns from an enormous, mysterious stranger called Hagrid that he is actually a wizard, famous in the wizarding world for surviving an attempted murderous attack by the evil dark Lord Voldemort, when Harry was just a year-old infant. Voldemort killed Harry's parents, but was surprisingly unable to kill the baby, being nearly destroyed in the process and only leaving a lightning bolt scar on Harry's forehead. Harry is invited to begin attending Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
In defiance of his aunt and uncle's wishes, Harry chooses to go to the school, where he begins to learn magic and make new friends, as well as enemies, among the Hogwarts students and staff. Harry learns that Voldemort has been in a state of near-death since the attack on Harry ten years earlier, but a plot is brewing for the dark lord to regain his power and strength through the acquisition of a Philosopher's Stone, which grants immortality to its owner. Harry and his friends, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, discover the plot and seek to prevent the theft of the stone, which is hidden in a protected chamber at Hogwarts.
Production & Development
In 1997, producer David Heyman searched Hollywood for a children's book that could be adapted into a well received film. He had planned to produce The Ogre Downstairs by Diana Wynne Jones, but his plans fell through. His staff at Heyday Films then suggested Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, which Heyman believed was "a cool idea." Heyman pitched the idea to Warner Bros. and the following year, Rowling sold the film rights to the company the rights to the first four Harry Potter books for a reported £1 million (US$1,982,900). A demand Rowling made was that the principal cast be kept strictly British, nonetheless allowing for the inclusion of many Irish actors such as the late Richard Harris as Dumbledore, and for casting of French and Eastern European actors in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire where characters from the book are specified as such. Rowling was hesitant to sell the rights because she "didn't want to give them control over the rest of the story" by selling the rights to the characters, which would have enabled WB to make non-author-written sequels.
Although Steven Spielberg initially negotiated to direct the film, he declined the offer. Spielberg reportedly wanted the adaptation to be an animated film, with American actor Haley Joel Osment to provide Harry Potter's voice, or a film incorporated elements from subsequent books as well. Spielberg contended that, in his opinion, there was every expectation of profit in making the film, and that making money would have been like "shooting ducks in a barrel. It's just a slam dunk. It's just like withdrawing a billion dollars and putting it into your personal bank accounts. There's no challenge." In the Rubbish Bin section of her website, Rowling maintains that she has no role in choosing directors for the films and said "Anyone who thinks I could (or would) have 'veto-ed' him [Spielberg] needs their Quick-Quotes Quill serviced." Heyman recalled that Spielberg decided to direct whichever project, out of Artificial Intelligence: A.I., Minority Report, Memoirs of a Geisha or Harry Potter, "came together first," with him opting to direct A.I..
After Spielberg left, talks began with other directors, including: Chris Columbus, Terry Gilliam, Jonathan Demme, Mike Newell, Alan Parker, Wolfgang Petersen, Rob Reiner, Ivan Reitman, Tim Robbins, Brad Silberling, M. Night Shyamalan and Peter Weir. Petersen and Reiner then both pulled out of the running in March 2000, and the choice was narrowed down to Silberling, Columbus, Parker and Gilliam. Rowling's first choice director was Terry Gilliam, but Warner Bros chose Columbus, citing his work on other family films such as Home Alone and Mrs. Doubtfire as influences for their decision. Columbus pitched his vision of the film for two hours, stating that he wanted the Muggle scenes "to be bleak and dreary," but those set in the wizarding world "to be steeped in color, mood, and detail." He took inspiration from David Lean's adaptations of Great Expectations and Oliver Twist, wishing to use "that sort of darkness, that sort of edge, that quality to the cinematography," taking the colour designs from Oliver! and The Godfather.
Steve Kloves was selected to write the screenplay for the film. He described adapting the book as "tough", as it did not "lend itself to adaptation as well as the next two books." Kloves was sent a selection of synopses of books proposed as film adaptations, which he "almost never read", but Harry Potter jumped out at him. He went out and bought the book, and became an instant fan of the series. When speaking to Warner Bros. he stated that the film had to be British, and had to be true to the characters. Kloves was nervous when he first meet Rowling as he did not want he to think he was going to "[destroy] her baby." Rowling admitted that she "was really ready to hate this Steve Kloves," but recalled her initial meeting with him: "The first time I met him, he said to me, 'You know who my favorite character is?' And I thought, You're gonna say Ron. I know you're gonna say Ron. But he said 'Hermione.' And I just kind of melted." Rowling received a large amount of creative control, being made an executive producer, an arrangement that Columbus did not mind.
Warner Bros. had initially planned to release the film over the July 4, 2001 weekend, making for such a short production window that several proposed directors pulled themselves out of the running. However due to time constraints the date was put back to November 16, 2001.
Filming
Two British film industry officials requested that the film be shot in England, offering their assistance in securing filming locations, the use of Leavesden Studios, as well as changing England's child labour laws. Warner Bros. accepted their proposal and filming began in October 2000 at Leavesden Studios, and concluded in April 2001, with final work being done in July. Principal photography took place on October 2, 2000 at Goathland railway station in North Yorkshire. Canterbury Cathedral and Inverailort Castle in Scotland were both touted as possible locations for Hogwarts; Canterbury rejected Warner Bros. offer due to concerns about the film's "pagan" theme. Alnwick Castle and Gloucester Cathedral were eventually selected as the principal filming locations for Hogwarts, with some scenes also being filmed at Harrow School. Other Hogwarts scenes were filmed in Durham Cathedral over a two week period, these included shots of the corridors and filming for some classroom scenes. Oxford Divinity School served as the Hogwarts Hospital Wing, and the Duke Humfrey Library was used as the Hogwarts Library. Filming for Privet Drive took place on Picket Post Close in Bracknell, Berkshire. Filming on the street took two days, with the producers only having planned for one, the delay meant that they had to pay the street's residents more money than they had anticipated. As such, for all of the subsequent film's scenes set in Privet Drive, filming took place on a constructed set in Leavesden Studios, which proved to have been cheaper than filming on location. Australia House in London was selected as the location for Gringotts Bank, whilst Christ Church, Oxford was the location for the Hogwarts trophy room. London Zoo was used as the location for the scene in which Harry accidentally sets a snake on Dudley, with Kings Cross Station also being used as the book specifies.
Due to the film's title difference in America and the United Kingdom, all scenes that mention the stone had to be filmed twice, once with the actors saying "philosopher's" and the second with them saying "sorcerer's". The children spent their days filming for four hours and then doing three hours of schoolwork, as well as all developing a fondness for having fake facial injuries added to them by the makeup staff. Radcliffe had to wear green contact lenses as, unlike Harry's, his eyes are blue. In some scenes computer animation was used to paint his eyes green, due to Radcliffe's discomfort.
Design, special effects and music
Judianna Makovsky designed the film's costumes. She re-designed the Quidditch robes, having initially planned to use those shown on the cover of the American book, but deemed them "a mess." As such, she dressed the Quidditch players in "preppie sweaters, 19th century fencing breeches and arm guards." Production designer Stuart Craig built the sets at Leavesden Studios, including Hogwarts Great Hall, basing it on many English cathedrals. Although originally asked to use an existing old street to film the Diagon Alley scenes, Craig decided to build his own set, comprising Tudor, Georgian and Queen Anne architecture.
Columbus originally planned to use both animatronics and CGI animation to create the magical creatures in the film, including Fluffy. Nick Dudman, who worked on Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, was given the task of creating the needed prosthetics for the film, with Jim Henson's Creature Shop providing creature effects. John Coppinger stated that the magical creatures that needed to be created for the film had to be designed multiple times. The film features nearly 600 special effects shots, with numerous companies handling different things. Industrial Light & Magic created the face of Lord Voldemort on the back of Quirrell, Rhythm & Hues animated Norbert; and Sony Pictures Imageworks produced the film's Quidditch scenes.
John Williams was selected to compose the film's score. Williams composed the score at his homes in Los Angeles and Tanglewood before recording it in London in August 2001. One of the main themes is entitled "Hedwig's Theme", Williams retained it for his finished score as "everyone seemed to like it".
Cast
Rowling personally insisted that the cast be kept British. Susie Figgis was appointed as casting director, working with both Columbus and Rowling in auditioning the lead roles of Harry, Ron and Hermione. Open casting calls were held for the main three roles, with only British children being considered. The principal auditions took place in three parts, with those auditioning having to read a page from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, then if called back, they had to improvise a scene of the students' arrival at Hogwarts, they were then given several pages from the script to read in front of Columbus. Scenes from Columbus' script for the 1985 film Young Sherlock Holmes were also used in auditions. On July 11, 2000 Figgis left production, complaining that Columbus did not consider any of the thousands of children they had auditioned "worthy". On August 8, 2000, the virtually unknown Daniel Radcliffe and the newcomers Emma Watson and Rupert Grint were selected from thousands of auditioning children to play the roles of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, respectively.
Daniel Radcliffe stars as Harry Potter, a seemingly normal child with a lightning shaped scar on his forehead and an ability to make strange things happen. He was raised by his aunt and uncle from the age of one year, following the death of his parents, about whom he knows very little. On his eleventh birthday Harry discovers that he is a wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Columbus had wanted Radcliffe for the role since he saw him the BBC's production of David Copperfield, before the open casting sessions had taken place, but had been told by Figgis that Radcliffe's protective parents would not allow their son to take the part. Columbus explained that his persistence in giving Radcliffe the role was responsible for Figgis' resignation. Radcliffe was asked to audition in 2000, when Heyman and Kloves meet him and his parents at a production of Stones in His Pockets in London. Heyman and Columbus successfully managed to convince Radcliffe's parents that their son would be protected from media intrusion, and they agreed to let him play Harry. Rowling approved of Radcliffe's casting, stating that "having seen [his] screen test I don't think Chris Columbus could have found a better Harry." Radcliffe was reportedly paid £1 million for the film, although he stated the fee was not "that important."
Rupert Grint plays Ron Weasley, a red-haired wizarding boy, the youngest boy of seven children from a disadvantaged family, who develops a long standing friendship with Harry. At 13 years old, Grint was the oldest actor of the trio. He decided he would be perfect for the part "because [he has got] ginger hair," and was a fan of the series. Having seen a Newsround report about the open casting he sent in a video of himself rapping about how he wished to receive the part. His attempt was successful as the casting team asked for a meeting with him.
Emma Watson plays Hermione Granger, an extremely intelligent witch who was "Muggle-born" who, despite initially irritating them, becomes friends with Harry and Ron after the pair save her from a troll. Impressed with her school play performances, Watson's Oxford theatre teacher passed her name on to the casting agents. Watson took her audition seriously, but "never really thought [she] had any chance of getting the role." The producers were impressed by Watson's self-confidence and she outperformed the thousands of other girls who had applied. Rowling was supportive of Watson from her first screen test.
Richard Harris as Albus Dumbledore: The Headmaster of Hogwarts and one of the most famous and powerful wizards of all time. He decides that Harry should stay at his aunt and uncle following the death of Lily and James Potter at the hands of Lord Voldemort. Harris initially rejected the role of Dumbledore, only to reverse his decision after his granddaughter stated she would never speak to him again if he did not take it.
Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid: A half-giant and the Groundskeeper at Hogwarts. He takes Harry to Privet Drive on a flying motorcycle, then takes him from his aunt and uncle on his eleventh birthday, after which the two develop a strong bond. He has a fondness for magical creatures, in particular dragons. Coltrane was Rowling's first choice for the part. Coltrane, who was already a fan of the books, prepared for the role by talking with Rowling about Hagrid's past and future.
Alan Rickman as Severus Snape: The Potions Master and head of Slytherin House at Hogwarts. He dislikes Harry due to a grudge he held with Harry's father. He was formerly a Death Eater but is trusted by Dumbledore. Tim Roth was offered the role but rejected it to work elsewhere and so the role was given to Rickman.
Maggie Smith as Minerva McGonagall: The Deputy Headmistress, head of Gryffindor and Transfiguration teacher at Hogwarts. She accompanies Dumbledore to Number 4 Privet Drive when Harry is taken to his aunt and uncle and has the ability to transform into a tabby cat. Smith was Rowling's personal choice for the part.
Tom Felton as Draco Malfoy: A wizard from a rich background. After Harry rejects his initial offer of "friendship", Draco develops an ever lasting hatred of Harry and his friends. Along with Radcliffe, Felton was the only one of the main group of child actors to have previous on-screen acting experience.
Ian Hart as Professor Quirrell: The slightly nervous Defense-Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts. He sports a turban, which harbors the near dead form of Lord Voldemort underneath. David Thewlis auditioned for the part. He would later be cast as Remus Lupin in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
Richard Griffiths as Vernon Dursley: Harry's uncle who treats him poorly, only caring for his son Dudley. He does not wish Harry to find out about his true identity, and burns every letter Hogwarts sends.
Fiona Shaw as Petunia Dursley: Harry's aunt, who like Vernon, treats him poorly.
Harry Melling as Dudley Dursley: Harry's over-weight, bullying, and spoiled cousin.
John Hurt as Mr Ollivander: The owner of Ollivander's, the finest wand producers in the wizarding world. Ollivander possesses the ability to find the perfect wand for any person who needs one, and claims to remember every wand he's ever sold. He tells Harry that he received his scar from Lord Voldemort.
Matthew Lewis as Neville Longbottom: A timid student who is a friend of Harry, Ron and Hermione. He is the frequent target of Malfoy and his gang.
Warwick Davis as Filius Flitwick: A small wizard who is the Charms teacher and head of Ravenclaw at Hogwarts.
John Cleese as Nearly Headless Nick: The ghost of Gryffindor house, his head is partially severed following a botched execution.
Julie Walters as Molly Weasley: Ron's caring mother. She shows Harry how to get to Platform 9¾. Before Walters was cast, American actress Rosie O'Donnell held talks with Columbus about playing Mrs. Weasley.
Richard Bremmer as Lord Voldemort: The darkest wizard of the age. He was defeated and nearly destroyed, when the killing curse he attempted to use on Harry rebounded and hit him. He was reduced to existing only as part of a host body and searches for the Philosopher's stone and a chance for immortality. Bremmer only plays Voldemort in the flashback scene. During the film's conclusion when he is revealed to Harry, Voldemort's voice and motion capture is provided by Ian Hart.
Rik Mayall was cast in the role of Peeves, having to shout his lines off camera during takes, but the scene ended up being cut from the film.
Differences from the book
Columbus repeatedly checked with Rowling to make sure he was getting the little details in the film correct. Kloves described the film as being "really faithful" to the book. He added some dialogue, which Rowling approved of. One of the lines originally included had to be removed after Rowling told him that it would directly contradict an event in the then-unreleased Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
Even so, as with many book to film transitions, there are differences between the plot of the film and the original source material. The first chapter of the book begins from the point of view of Vernon and Petunia Dursley in the days leading up to them being given Harry to look after, highlighting how Muggles react to magic. The film scraps this, beginning with Hagrid leaving Harry with the Dursley's. Next, a month of Harry's summer, including several of Vernon's attempts to escape the constantly arriving Hogwart's letters, is cut from the film. Some conflict between Harry and Draco, including their original first meeting in Madam Malkin's robe shop, is not included. The character of Piers Polkiss is cut and some of Nicolas Flamel's role is changed or cut altogether. Norbert is mentioned to have been taken away by Dumbledore in the film; whilst the book sees Harry and Hermione have to take him by hand to friends of Charlie Weasley. Rowling described the scene as "the one part of the book that she felt [could easily] be changed." As such, the reason for the detention in the Forbidden Forest is also changed, with Ron having to go with Harry, Hermione and Draco, unlike the book in which Neville has to go. The Sorting Hat's song is axed, as is Snape's potion riddle task on the way to the stone. Visual changes included both Aunt Petunia and Dudley being made brunette, and Firenze, who in the book is described as being palomino with light blonde hair, is shown to be dark in the film. Additionally the Quidditch pitch is altered from a traditional stadium to an open field circled by spectator towers.
Marketing
The first teaser poster for the film was released December 30, 2000, with the first teaser trailer being released via satellite on February 29, 2001 and then debuting in cinemas with See Spot Run. The film's soundtrack was released on October 30, 2001. A video game based on the film was released in 2001 by Electronic Arts for several consoles. Another video game, for the GameCube, PlayStation 2, and Xbox was released in 2003. Mattel won the rights to produce toys based on the film, to be sold exclusively through Warner Brothers' stores. Hasbro also produced products, including confectionery items based on those from the series. Warner Bros. signed a deal worth US$150 million with Coca-Cola to promote the film, and Lego produced a series of sets based on buildings and scenes from the film, as well as a Lego Creator video game based on the film.
Reaction and Box Office Records
The film received generally positive reviews from critics, garnering a 79% "Fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and a score of 64 out of 100 at Metacritic representing "generally favorable reviews". Roger Ebert called Philosopher's Stone "a classic," particularly praising the visual effects used for the Quidditch scenes. Praise which was shared by both The Telegraph and Empire reviewers, with Alan Morrison naming it the "stand-out sequence" of the film. Brian Linder of IGN.com also gave the film a positive review, comparing it closely to the book and concluding that it "isn't perfect, but for me it's a nice supplement to a book series that I love". Although criticising the final half-hour Jeanne Aufmuth stated that the film would "enchant even the most cynical of moviegoers." The sets, design, cinematography, effects and principal cast were all given praise from Kirk Honeycutt, although he deemed John Williams' score "a great clanging, banging music box that simply will not shut up." Jonathan Foreman recalled that the film was "remarkably faithful," to its literary counterpart as well as "consistently entertaining if overlong adapatation."
Richard Corliss of Time, considered the film a "by the numbers adaptation," criticizing the pace and the "charisma-free" lead actors. CNN's Paul Tatara found that Columbus and Kloves "are so careful to avoid offending anyone by excising a passage from the book, the so-called narrative is more like a jamboree inside Rowling's head." Ed Gonzalez wished that the film had been directed by Tim Burton, finding the cinematography "bland and muggy," and the majority of the film a "solidly dull celebration of dribbling goo."
The film had its world premiere on November 4, 2001, in Leicester Square, London; with the cinema adapted to have a Hogwarts design. Harry Potter was greatly received at the box office. In the United States it made $33.3 million on its opening day, breaking the single day record previously held by Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace. On Saturday, the second day of release, the film increased to $33.5 million breaking the record for biggest single day once again. In total it made $90.3 million during its first weekend, breaking the record for highest opening weekend of all time that was previously held by The Lost World: Jurassic Park. Harry Potter held the record until the following May when Spider-Man made $114.8 million in its opening weekend. Similar results were achieved across the world. In the United Kingdom it broke the record for the highest opening weekend ever, both including and excluding previews, making £16.3 million with and £9.8 million without previews. The film went on to make £66.1 million in the U.K. alone, making it the second highest-grossing film of all-time in that country, which it remains to this day.
In total, the film earned $976.5 million at the worldwide box office, $317.6 million of that in the U.S. and $658.9 million elsewhere, which made it the second highest grossing film in history at the time, as well as the highest grossing of the year. As of 2007, it is the fourth highest-grossing film of all-time, behind Titanic, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest.
Awrds
The film received three Academy Award nominations: "Best Art Direction", "Best Costume Design", and "Best Original Score" for John Williams although it didn't win in any category. The film was also nominated for seven BAFTA Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Robbie Coltrane. The film won a Saturn Award for its costumes and was nominated for eight more. It won other awards from the Casting Society of America and the Costume Designers Guild. It was nominated for the AFI Film Award for its special effects and the Art Directors Guild Award for its production design.
5. Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (2007)
(Collections: $958,404,152)
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End is a 2007 adventure film, the third in the Pirates of the Caribbean series. Gore Verbinski directed the film, as he did with the previous two. It was shot in two shoots during 2005 and 2006, the former simultaneously with the preceding film, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest.
The plot follows the crew of the Black Pearl rescuing Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp), from Davy Jones' Locker, and then preparing to fight the East India Trading Company, led by Cutler Beckett (Tom Hollander) and Davy Jones (Bill Nighy), who plan to extinguish piracy. The film was released in English-speaking countries on May 24, 2007 after Disney opted to move the release date to a day earlier than originally planned. Critical reviews were mixed, but At World's End was a box office hit, becoming the most successful film of the year.
Story and Plot Point
Lord Cutler Beckett begins executing anyone associated with piracy and commands Davy Jones to destroy all pirate ships. To confront Beckett’s assault, the nine pirate lords making up the Brethren Court have been summoned to convene on Shipwreck Cove. However, Captain Jack Sparrow, pirate lord of the Caribbean, never appointed his successor, and therefore must be present. Captain Barbossa leads Will, Elizabeth, Tia Dalma and the Black Pearl crew to rescue Jack. Sao Feng, pirate lord of Singapore, possesses a map to World's End, the gateway to Davy Jones' Locker. Elizabeth and Barbossa attempt to bargain with Feng for the map and a ship, but Feng is furious that Will already attempted to steal it. The British Royal Navy, acting under orders from Beckett, suddenly attack Feng's bathhouse. During the ensuing chaos, Will strikes a bargain with Feng for the Black Pearl in exchange for Sparrow, whom Feng wants to turn over to Beckett, presumably in exchange for immunity from Davy Jones' attacks on pirates. Will wants the Black Pearl to rescue his father from the Flying Dutchman.
The crew journey through a frozen sea and sail over an enormous waterfall into the Locker. Aboard the Pearl, Sparrow is suffering hallucinations about an entire crew comprising himself, each representing a different facet of his character. The Pearl is dragged to an ocean shore by crab-like creatures, and Jack is reunited with his old shipmates, though he is initially reluctant to rejoin a crew who, among them, include four people who had attempted to kill him in the past. As the Black Pearl crew seek an escape route, they see dead souls floating under the water. Tia Dalma reveals that Davy Jones was appointed by his lover, Calypso, goddess of the sea, to ferry the dead to the next world. In return, Jones was allowed to step upon land for one day every ten years to be with his love, but when she failed to meet him, the scorned captain abandoned his duty and transformed into a monster. Elizabeth sees her father, Governor Weatherby Swann's soul pass by in a boat; he was murdered by Beckett. A distraught Elizabeth vows revenge.
The Black Pearl remains trapped in the Locker until Sparrow deciphers the map, realizing the ship must be capsized to return to the living world. They overturn the ship, and at sunset, upturn back into the living world. Upon their return, Sao Feng attacks, revealing his agreement with Will. But he betrays Will, having made a deal with Cutler Beckett to hand over the crew and keep the Black Pearl. Onboard Endeavor, Sparrow refuses to divulge to Beckett where the Brethren Court will convene. Beckett double-crosses Feng by keeping the Black Pearl for his armada, and in turn Feng gives Sparrow the ship back, while taking Elizabeth, whom he believes is Calypso. Aboard his warship, the Empress, Feng tells Elizabeth that it was the first Brethren Court who trapped Calypso into human form so they could control the seas. Feng is mortally wounded when Davy Jones attacks his ship. Before dying, he appoints Elizabeth his heir, making her captain and the pirate lord of Singapore. She and the crew are imprisoned in Flying Dutchman's brig. Also aboard is Admiral James Norringtow, who betrays Beckett and frees Elizabeth and her crew who escape back to their ship, although Norrington is killed when he is discovered by Bootstrap Bill.
Will leaves a trail of corpses for Beckett's ship to follow. Sparrow catches him and tosses him overboard, but he first gives him his magical compass, apparently intending for Beckett to find them. Will is picked up by Beckett's ship, and it is revealed that it was Davy Jones who masterminded Calypso's imprisonment by the pirate lords. At Shipwreck Island, the nine pirate lords disagree over freeing Calypso. Barbossa calls upon Captain Teague Sparrow, Keeper of the Pirata Codex and Jack's father, to reveal that a Pirate King is needed to declare war. Elizabeth, newly ordained Pirate lord of Singapore, is elected "Pirate King" after Sparrow’s vote breaks a stalemate (during previous elections, each pirate lord voted only for himself/herself). She orders the pirates to fight Beckett. During a preceding parlay with Beckett and Jones, Elizabeth and Barbossa swap Sparrow for Will.
Barbossa tricked the other pirate lords into giving him their insignias, which he needs to free Calypso, who is Tia Dalma. When Barbossa releases her in a ritual, her fury over Jones' betrayal unleashes a violent maelstrom just as the Navy's massive fleet appears on the horizon. During the battle, Sparrow escapes the Flying Dutchman with the Dead Man's Chest. As the Black Pearl and the Flying Dutchman face off near the centre of a massive whirlpool, Will proposes to Elizabeth. They insist Barbossa marry them as Jack is onboard the Flying Dutchman, and so unavailable to marry them as Captain of the Black Pearl. Barbossa agrees, marries them and continues fighting as they exchange vows and kiss in the ensuing chaos. When Davy Jones mortally wounds Will aboard his ship, Bootstrap Bill attacks Jones. Jack, who wanted the heart for his own immortality, places a knife in Will's hand and helps him stab Jones' heart, killing Jones and making Will the Flying Dutchman's captain. After Jack tears Elizabeth away from the seemingly dead body of her husband, they escape the Flying Dutchman from some quick thinking on Jack's part. The crew cut out Will's heart and place it into the "Dead Man's Chest": the crewmen regain their humanity, and Will and Sparrow captain the Flying Dutchman and the Black Pearl respectively to destroy Beckett's ship, the Endeavor, forcing the enemy fleet to retreat.
Although Will has been saved and the Dutchman crew has regained their humanity, he must now spend the next ten years at sea. He and Elizabeth have one day together and consummate their marriage on an island before Will must leave for his new life. Will gives Elizabeth the "Dead Man's Chest" for safekeeping. Shortly after, Barbossa again commandeers the Black Pearl, stranding Jack and Gibbs in Tortuga. Having anticipated Barbossa's deception, however, Sparrow has already removed the map's middle that leads to the Fountain of Youth. In a post-credits scene set ten years later, Will appears on the horizon aboard the Flying Dutchman and is seen sailing towards land to meet Elizabeth and their adolescent child. (Although there is no evidence for this in the film itself, the screenwriters have said that because Elizabeth stayed true to Will for the interim 10 years, the curse is lifted and he is free of the Flying Dutchman.)
Cast
Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow: Pirate Lord of the Caribbean Sea, he was tricked by Elizabeth Swann into being swallowed by the Kraken to save the crew. Sparrow is trapped in Davy Jones' Locker until a rescue party arrives, whereupon he returns to the living world to battle his nemesis, Davy Jones. While in the Locker, he suffers hallucinations, seeing multiple versions of himself, each representing a different facet of his personality.
Orlando Bloom as Will Turner: A blacksmith turned pirate, and the son of the pirate "Bootstrap Bill" Turner, a crewman on the Flying Dutchman, commanded by Davy Jones. Will eventually becomes the Captain of the "Flying Dutchman" after killing Davy Jones. Will hopes to free his father, and marry Elizabeth even though he believes she loves Sparrow.
Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Swann: Governor Swann’s daughter and engaged to Will. She tricked Jack Sparrow into being swallowed by the Kraken to save herself and the Black Pearl crew. Jack is at first unable to forgive her for sending him to his doom, but eventually relents.
Geoffrey Rush as Captain Hector Barbossa: Pirate Lord of the Caspian Sea, he was the first mate of the Black Pearl under Jack's command before leading a mutiny. Although killed by Sparrow a year before, a resurrected Barbossa returns to lead the Black Pearl crew to the World's End. He and Sparrow argue over who is the real captain of the Black Pearl.
Bill Nighy provides a short live-action scene, in addition to the motion capture and voice acting for Davy Jones: Ghostly ruler of the ocean realm, captain of The Flying Dutchman, and to whom Jack owed a blood debt. His heart was captured by James Norrington, and as a result, he is now trapped into service to Lord Cutler Beckett of the East India Trading Company, who forces him to kill the Kraken. During a brief reunion, Tia Dalma momenttarily restores his former human form.
Tom Hollander as Lord Cutler Beckett: Chairman of the East India Trading Company and the main villain of the film. Beckett possesses Davy Jones' heart, thus controlling the world's oceans and seven seas.
Naomie Harris as Tia Dalma/Calypso: A witch who travels with the Black Pearl crew to rescue Jack, she also raised Hector Barbossa from the dead at the conclusion of Dead Man's Chest and is the woman Davy Jones fell in love with. She is more powerful than the crew realizes.
Stellan Skarsgård as William "Bootstrap Bill" Turner: Will's father, he is cursed to serve an eternity aboard The Flying Dutchman. As he slowly loses his humanity to the sea, he becomes mentally confused, barely recognizing his own son.
Chow Yun-Fat as Captain Sao Feng: Pirate Lord of the South China Sea, he captains the Chinese ship The Empress. He has a bad history with Sparrow and is reluctant to aid in his rescue from Davy Jones' Locker. "Sao Feng" (嘯風) means "Howling Wind" in Chinese.
Kevin McNally as Joshamee Gibbs: Jack's loyal and superstitious first mate.
Jack Davenport as James Norrington: Promoted to the rank of admiral, he has an alliance with Lord Beckett and the East India Trading Company after stealing the heart of Davy Jones and bargaining it to Cutler Beckett in exchange for his career. He is also Elizabeth's former fiancé and still loves her.
Lee Arenberg as Pintel: A slightly mischievous, stolid member of Jack's crew.
Mackenzie Crook as Ragetti: A Black Pearl crewman and Pintel's eccentric companion who wears a wooden eye.
Jonathan Pryce as Weatherby Swann: Governor of Port Royal, Jamaica. He is Elizabeth's father and is also trapped in Beckett's service.
Keith Richards as Teague: A pirate and the Keeper of the Pirata Codex for the Brethren Court. He is Jack Sparrow's father, and keeps Jack's dead mother's shrunken head with him.
Production
Following Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl's success in 2003, the cast and crew signed on for two more sequels to be shot back-to-back. For the third film, director Gore Verbinski wanted to return the tone to that of a character piece after using the second film to keep the plot moving. The film would explore Jack Sparrow's mad desperation to not return to Davy Joneel’ Locker, Barbossa's political manipulations, the completion of Will and Elizabeth's coming of age arcs, the increasing humanity in Davy Jones and Norrington and vice versa in "Bootstrap" Bill. Actor Johnny Depp was happy that he got more screentime with Geoffrey Rush than in the first film: "We're like a couple of old ladies fighting over their knitting needles... it's fantastic!" Inspired by the real-life confederation of pirates, Elliott and Rossio looked at historical figures and created fictional characters from them to expand the scope beyond the main cast. Finally embellishing their mythology, Calypso was introduced, going full circle to Barbossa's mention of "heathen gods" that created the curse in the first film.
Parts of the third film were shot during location filming of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, a long shoot which finished on March 1, 2006. Chow Yun-Fat was confirmed to be playing Sao Feng in July 2005 while production of the second film was on hiatus. Chow relished playing the role, even helping out crew members with props. The two-film schedule resumed in August at the Singapore set, built on Stage 12 of the Universal backlot. It comprised 40 structures within a 80 by 130 foot tank that was 3½ feet deep. As 18th century Singapore is not a well-documented era, the filmmakers chose to use an Expressionist style based on Chinese and Malaysian cities of the same period. The design of the city was also intended by Verbinski to parody spa culture, with fungi growing throughout the set. Continuing this natural feel, the floorboards of Sao Feng's bathhouse had to be cut by hand, and real humidity was created by the combination of gallons of water and the lighting equipment on the set.
Keith Richards, who partially inspired Johnny Depp's portrayal of Sparrow, was meant to appear in Dead Man's Chest, but there was no room for him in the story, and he almost missed filming a scene in At World's End following injuries sustained by falling out of a palm tree. In June 2006, Verbinski finally managed to make room in Richards' schedule to shoot in September, when he spent his three days of shooting drunk. Filming resumed in August 2006 at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah and continued until early 2007 for seventy days off the California coast, as all the shooting required in the Caribbean had been conducted in 2005. Davy Jones' Locker was shot at Utah, and it was shot in a monochromatic way to represent its different feeling from the usual colorful environment of a pirate.
The climactic battle was shot in a former air hanger at Palmdale, California, where the cast had to wear wetsuits underneath their costumes on angle-tipped ships. The water-drenched set was kept in freezing temperatures, to make sure bacteria did not come inside and infect the crew. The maelstrom was one of many water-based challenges for Industrial Light & Magic in the film, spending just five months finishing the special effects. ILM took on 750 shots, while Digital Domain also took on 300. A second unit shot at Niagara Falls.
Filming finished on January 10, 2007 in Molokai, and the first assembly cut was three hours. Twenty minutes were removed, not including end credits, though producer Jerry Bruckheimer maintained that the long running time was needed to make the final battle work in terms of build-up. Hans Zimmer composed the score as he did for the previous film, composing eight new motifs including a new love theme for the At World's End soundtrack.
Marketing
At the 2006 San Diego Comic-Con International, two minutes of footage were shown including Captain Jack Sparrow having to convince the crew to run back and forth on the ship deck to rock a ship over and Sparrow and Davy Jones battling on top of a crow's nest during the maelstrom battle. After a muted publicity campaign, the trailer finally debuted at ShoWest 2007. It was shown on March 18, 2007 at a special screening of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl named "Pirates Ultimate Fan Event", and was then shown on March 19 during Dancing with the Stars, before it debuted online.
Action figures by NECA were released in late April. Board games such as a Collectors Edition Chess Set, Monopoly Game and Pirates Dice Game (Liar's Dice) were also released. Master Replicas have made sculptures of characters and replicas of jewelery and the Dead Man's Chest. A video game with the same title as the film was released on May 22, 2007 on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, PSP, PlayStation 2, PC and Nintendo DS formats. The soundtrack and its remix were also released on May 22.
Release
The world premiere of At World's End was held on May 19, 2007, at Disneyland, home of the ride that inspired the movie and where the first two films in the trilogy debuted. Disneyland offered the general public a chance to attend the premiere through the sale of tickets, priced at $1,500 each, with proceeds going to the Make-A-Wish Foundation charity. Just a few weeks before the film's release, Walt Disney Pictures decided to move the United States opening of At World's End from screenings Friday, May 25, 2007 to Thursday at 8 PM, May 24, 2007. The film opened in 4,362 theaters domestically, beating Spider-Man 3's theater opening record by 110.
Reaction
Like Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, At World's End received mixed reviews with the most common criticism of the film from reviewers was that the plot was too convoluted for them to follow. Drew McWeeny was an exception, praising its complexity as giving it repeat-viewing value, and its conclusion as "perhaps the most canny move it makes." Todd Gilchrist found the story too similar to other cinematic trilogies such as Star Wars but praised the production values. Brian Lowry felt that "unlike last year's bloated sequel, it at least possesses some semblance of a destination, making it slightly more coherent - if no less numbing during the protracted finale." Total Film praised the performances but complained that the twists and exposition made it hard to care for the characters. Edward Douglas liked the film but had issues with its pacing, while Blake Wright criticized the Davy Jones' Locker and Calypso segments. James Berardinelli found it the weakest of the trilogy as "the last hour offers adventure as rousing as anything provided in either of the previous installments... which doesn't account for the other 108 minutes of this gorged, self-indulgent, and uneven production." Peter Travers praised Richards and Rush but felt "there can indeed be too much of a good thing," regarding Depp's character. In review aggregate websites, At World's End has a "rotten" rating of 45% on Rotten Tomatoes and 50% at Metacritic.
Favorable reviewer Alex Billington noted, "This is just how the film industry works nowadays; critics give bad opinions, the public usually has a differing opinion, and all is well in the world of Hollywood since the studios made their millions anyway." On May 24, 2007 the film earned US$58 million worldwide, and earned the fifth-biggest three-day opening yet, breaking the Memorial Day weekend record of X-Men: The Last Stand, with a domestic gross of $142 million. The addition of the Thursday screenings brought the opening total to $156 million. Elsewhere, it grossed $205 million, bringing the worldwide opening gross to $332 million. By June 13, 2007, the film had grossed $500 million overseas in 20 days, breaking Spider-Man 3's record for reaching that amount the fastest. The film has grossed $961 million worldwide, making it the highest grossing film of 2007, and the fifth-highest grossing film worldwide.
Censorship
At least one nation's official censors have ordered scenes cut from the movie. According to Xinhua, the state news agency of the People's Republic of China, 10 minutes of footage containing Chow Yun-Fat's portrayal of Singaporean pirate Sao Feng have been trimmed from versions of the film which may be shown in China. Chow is onscreen for 20 minutes in the uncensored theatrical release of the film. No official reason for the censorship was given, but unofficial sources within China have indicated that the character offered a negative and stereotypical portrayal of the Chinese people.
Home video
The one-disc and two-disc versions of the Region 2 package versions of the DVD were released in the UK on November 19, 2007, on both DVD and Blu-Ray formats. The Australian DVD was released on November 21, 2007, and it will be released on December 4, 2007 in the United States
6. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
(Collections: $936,580,420)
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is a 2007 fantasy adventure film, based on the novel of the same name, by J. K. Rowling. Directed by David Yates, it is the fifth film in the popular Harry Potter film series. The story follows Harry Potter entering his fifth year at the magic school Hogwarts. The Ministry of Magic is denying the return of Lord Voldemort and also appoints a new teacher, Dolores Umbridge, a bureaucrat who slowly becomes an authoritarian figure in the school.
The screenplay was written by Michael Goldenberg, who replaced Steve Kloves, writer of the first four films. Live action filming started in February 2006 and finished in the end of November, and post-production on the film continued for several months afterwards. Warner Bros., the distributor of the film, scheduled a UK release date of 12 July 2007, and a U.S. release date of 11 July 2007, both in conventional and IMAX theatres.
The sixth-highest grossing film of all time, it was a critical and commercial success, and was acclaimed by the author, Rowling, who has consistently offered her praise for the film adaptations of her works, and evaluated Order of the Phoenix as "the best one yet."
Story and Plot Point
Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger enter their fifth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Much of the wizarding community has shunned Harry and Albus Dumbledore, Hogwarts headmaster, who claim that Lord Voldemort has, after 14 years, regained a body and been restored to full power, and are instead influenced by the propaganda of The Daily Prophet and the ignorance of the Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge. Fudge appoints a new Hogwarts Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, Dolores Umbridge, who begins to take over Hogwarts through the support of the Ministry.
Following the Ministry line, Umbridge refuses to acknowledge that Voldemort has returned, and when Harry insists that he has, she gives him detention during which he is required to write lines with a quill that causes the words to cut into the skin of his hand. Umbridge's teaching is inadequate, consisting of memorisation of the textbook instead of any practical instruction in defensive spells. Twenty-seven students form "Dumbledore's Army" (the D.A.), an underground organisation in which Harry teaches them to use defensive magic.
Meanwhile, Harry has been seeing into Voldemort's mind through his dreams. In one, he sees Ron's father Arthur attacked in the Department of Mysteries in the Ministry. Harry immediately tells Dumbledore, who believes that Voldemort may have a connection to Harry's mind. Harry begins lessons with Professor Snape to close his mind in the event that Lord Voldemort should become aware of the connection between Harry's mind and his own. During the course of these grueling sessions Harry accidentally enters Snape's mind and has an uncomfortable vision of his own father bullying the loner Snape when they were students at Hogwarts. Enraged, Snape puts an end to the sessions.
Harry begins a relationship with fellow D.A. member Cho Chang, but it comes to an abrupt end when she informs Umbridge of the D.A (under the influence of a truth potion). Umbridge apprehends Harry and goes to Dumbledore, who tells her and Fudge that the D.A. was formed on his instructions. Upon hearing this, Fudge orders Dumbledore's arrest, but Dumbledore summons his phoenix Fawkes and both vanish in a blaze of light from his office.
When Harry, who is unable to close his mind, has a vision of his godfather Sirius Black being tortured by Voldemort in the Department of Mysteries, he launches a rescue attempt, but is waylaid by Umbridge and taken to her office. Umbridge asks Snape for Veritaserum (truth serum) but Snape tells her that she used up all of his stock interrogating students, including Cho. Hermione tricks Umbridge into accompanying her and Harry to the Forbidden Forest, where Umbridge is abducted by a centaur herd after insulting them and injuring one of them. Hagrid's half-brother, the giant Grawp, assists Harry and Hermione to escape. Harry, Ron, and Hermione, with D.A. members Ginny Weasley, Neville Longbottom, and Luna Lovegood, fly to the Ministry of Magic. In the Hall of Prophecy, Harry and his friends discover a small glowing orb with Harry's name on it. When Harry retrieves it, he finds that it contains a prophecy about himself and Voldemort. Suddenly, Lucius Malfoy appears with the Death Eaters, Voldemort's followers, and explains that Sirius is not there — the vision was a trick to make Harry retrieve the prophecy, which could only be taken from its resting place by one of the people about whom it was made.
A battle erupts throughout the Ministry. As the shelves holding the prophecies collapse, Harry and his friends flee to another room with a veiled archway in the center. The Death Eaters follow them and manage to capture Harry's friends, whom Malfoy threatens to kill if Harry does not hand over the prophecy. After a moment of hesitation he gives it to Malfoy. Before Lucius can escape with it, he is confronted by Sirius, who has arrived with members of the Order of the Phoenix, a society dedicated to battling Voldemort and his followers. Lucius drops the prophecy, causing it to smash on the floor. Harry's friends are freed, and the battle continues. Sirius pulls Harry aside and tells him to take his friends and leave, but he refuses and continues to fight. Immediately after, Sirius is hit by a killing curse cast by his cousin Bellatrix Lestrange, a Death Eater. He smiles at Harry before falling through the archway and disappearing.
Harry pursues Bellatrix to the Atrium of the Ministry and subdues her by the use of the torture curse. A voice appears in Harry's head, taunting him to kill Lestrange. Moments later, the voice is revealed to be that of Lord Voldemort, who Apparates behind Harry. Harry attempts to attack him, but Voldemort disarms him. Before Voldemort can kill Harry, Dumbledore appears. As Bellatrix escapes, they engage in a furious duel. Fearing that Dumbledore is too powerful to defeat in open combat, Voldemort attempts to possess Harry, as Dumbledore looks on. After an agonizing internal battle, Harry says that it is Voldemort, not he, who is weak and that he will never know love or friendship, and for that Harry feels sorry for him. Voldemort is ultimately forced from Harry's body and mind, prompting him to state that Harry "will lose everything" due to the profound amount of love that resides within him.
Fudge arrives in the Atrium with a squad of Aurors just seconds before Voldemort Disapparates . The Ministry is forced to acknowledge its error and vindicate Dumbledore and Harry. Dumbledore later discusses with Harry the contents of the prophecy Voldemort wanted so badly, which states that "neither can live while the other survives"; therefore, Harry must either kill Voldemort or be killed by Voldemort. The film ends as Harry tells Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Neville, and Luna, that they can love, something that Voldemort cannot and that they have "something worth fighting for".
Production
David Yates was chosen to direct the film after Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire director Mike Newell, as well as Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Matthew Vaughn and Mira Nair turned down offers. Yates believed he was approached because of one of his previous projects, the television drama Sex Traffic, and because the studio saw him fit to handle an "edgy and emotional" film with a "political backstory". Steve Kloves, the screenwriter of the first four Potter films, had other commitments, and Michael Goldenberg wrote the script for the film; however, Kloves will return for the next film, Half-Blood Prince.
Rehearsals for Order of the Phoenix began on 27 January 2006, filming began on 6 February, and finished in the end of November 2006. Filming was put on a two-month hiatus starting in May 2006 so that Radcliffe could sit his A/S Levels and Watson could sit her GCSE exams. The film's budget was reportedly between GB£75 and 100 million (US$150 and 200 million).
Nicholas Hooper was the composer for the soundtrack of the film, following John Williams, who scored the first three films, and Patrick Doyle, who did the fourth. In the new score, Hooper incorporated variations on "Hedwig's Theme", the series' theme originally written by Williams for the first film and heard in all subsequent ones. In March and April of 2007, Hooper and the London Chamber Orchestra recorded nearly two hours of music at Abbey Road Studios in London. The score, like the film and book, is darker than previous instalments in the series. To emphasise this, the two new main themes reflect the sinister new character Dolores Umbridge, and Lord Voldemort's invasion of Harry's mind. A Japanese Taiko drum was used for a deeper sound in the percussion. The soundtrack was released on 10 July 2007, the eve of the film's release.
Mark Day was the film editor, Sławomir Idziak was the cinematographer, and Jany Temime was the costume designer. Choreographer Paul Harris, who has previously worked with David Yates several times, created a physical language for wand combat to choreograph the wand fighting scenes.
Set design
Stuart Craig returned as set designer, having also designed the first four films' sets. There were a number of notable new sets in this film. The atrium in the Ministry of Magic is over 200 feet in length, making it the largest and most expensive set yet built for the Potter film series. Craig's design was inspired by early London Underground stations, where architects "tried to imitate classical architecture but they used ceramic tile", as well as a Burger King on Tottenham Court Road in London, where "there's a fantastic Victorian façade which just embodies the age". The set of Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place contains the Black family tapestry spread across three walls; when the producers told Rowling they wanted to visualise the details of each name and birthyear, she faxed them a complete copy of the entire tree. The set of the Hall of Prophecies was entirely digitally built. During a fight scene which occurs there, prophecies crash to the ground and break; had it been an actual physical set, the reset time would have been weeks.
The set used for Igor Karkaroff's trial scene in Goblet of Fire was doubled in size for Harry's trial in this film, while still protecting its symmetry. New professor Dolores Umbridge, though she teaches in a classroom that has appeared in films two through four, inhabits an office vastly different from those of her predecessors. The set was redressed with "fluffy, pink filigree" and a number of plates upon which moving kittens were animated in post-production. A 24-hour photo shoot was held to photograph and film the kittens for use on these plates. Even the elegant quill which Umbridge gives Harry to write lines using his own blood is designed by the set designers.
Visual effects
Tim Burke was the visual effects supervisor, John Richardson was the special effects supervisor, and Nick Dudman was the creatures special effects supervisor. The film required over 1,400 visual effects shots, and the London-based company Double Negative created more than 950 of them. Working for six months on previsualisation starting in September 2005, Double Negative was largely responsible for sequences in the Room of Requirement, the Forbidden Forest, the Hall of Prophecies, and the Death Chamber.
A new character in the film, Grawp, Hagrid's giant half-brother, came to life by a new technology called Soul Capturing, developed by Image Metrics. Instead of building the character from scratch, the movements and facial expressions of actor Tony Maudsley were used to model Grawp's actions.
Filming
Though the producers explored options to film outside of the UK, Leavesden Studios in Watford was again the location on which many of the interior scenes, including the Great Hall, Privet Drive and Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place were shot.
Locations in England included the River Thames, for the flight of the Order of the Phoenix to Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place, and the flight of Dumbledore's Army to the Ministry of Magic. This sequence also includes such landmarks as the London Eye, Canary Wharf, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the HMS Belfast. Filming at Platform 9¾ took place at King's Cross Station, as it has in the past. A telephone booth near Scotland Yard was used as Harry and Arthur Weasley enter the Ministry, while the crew closed the Westminster tube station on 22 October 2006 to allow for filming of Arthur Weasley accompanying Harry to his trial at the Ministry of Magic. Other scenes were filmed in and around Oxford, specifically at nearby Blenheim Palace in Woodstock.
Various locations around Scotland were used for exterior shots. Fort William was used to show 'snow-capped mountains and glens' vital for the opening sequence of the film. In Glenfinnan, the Hogwarts Express crosses a viaduct, as it has in the past films. Aerial scenes were shot in Glen Coe, in Clachaig Gully, and Glen Etive, which, at the time of filming, was one of the few places in Scotland without snow, making it ideal for a backdrop.
Several locations were used which do not appear in the final cut of the film. In Virginia Water, scenes were shot where Professor McGonagall recovers from Stunning Spells, and Burnham Beeches was used for filming the scene where Hagrid introduces his fifth-year Care of Magical Creatures class to Thestrals. Harry skips stones in front of Bonnie Prince Charlie's Monument in Glenfinnan in another cut scene.
Cast
Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, the protagonist. He has to battle with much of the Wizarding world's denial over Harry's encounter with the evil Lord Voldemort at the end of the previous year. He teaches his friends to defend themselves in duels.
Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley, one of Harry's best friends. He helps Harry found Dumbledore's Army and accompanies Harry to the Department of Mysteries in the climax of the film.
Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, one of Harry's best friends. She helps Harry found Dumbledore's Army and accompanies Harry to the Department of Mysteries in the climax of the film.
Ralph Fiennes as Lord Voldemort, the antagonist, who lures Harry to the Ministry of Magic and nearly kills him.
Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore, the Hogwarts headmaster. He upsets Harry by remaining distant from him throughout the year, but explains at the end of the film why he isolated himself. He also explains the meaning of the prophecy to Harry.
Gary Oldman as Sirius Black, Harry's godfather who, during the battle at the Department of Mysteries, is killed by his cousin Bellatrix Lestrange, causing Harry great emotional damage.
Imelda Staunton as Dolores Umbridge, the new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, a plant from the Ministry of Magic who prevents Harry and his friends from learning practical magic, and refuses to allow Harry to claim that Lord Voldemort has returned.
Alan Rickman as Severus Snape, the Potions master. He helps teach Harry to block his mind's connection to Lord Voldemort's. He holds a grudge against Harry because he and Harry's father hated each other while they were at school together.
Matthew Lewis as Neville Longbottom, a classmate of Harry's who accompanies him to the Department of Mysteries.
Evanna Lynch as Luna Lovegood, a classmate of Harry's who explains the Thestrals to him and accompanies him to the Department of Mysteries.
Bonnie Wright as Ginny Weasley, Ron's sister who accompanies Harry to the Department of Mysteries.
Katie Leung as Cho Chang, Harry's love interest.
Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid, the regular Care of Magical Creatures professor, and close friend of Harry, Ron and Hermione. He is absent for the first half of the year on a mission for the Order of the Phoenix.
Maggie Smith as Minerva McGonagall, the Transfiguration teacher and deputy headmistress.
Emma Thompson as Sybill Trelawney, the Divination teacher who Umbridge fires for not being able to correctly divine the future.
David Thewlis as Remus Lupin, a former Hogwarts teacher and mentor of Harry. He is a member of the Order of the Phoenix and participates in the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
Brendan Gleeson as Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, a retired Auror. He is a member of the Order of the Phoenix and participates in the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
George Harris as Kingsley Shacklebolt, an Auror and a member of the Order of the Phoenix who participates in the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
Natalia Tena as Nymphadora Tonks, an Auror and member of the Order of the Phoenix who participates in the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
Julie Walters as Molly Weasley, Ron's mother who acts as a maternal figure to Harry.
Mark Williams as Arthur Weasley, Ron's father who acts as a paternal figure to Harry. Harry saves him from death when he sees a vision of Arthur being attacked.
Robert Hardy as Cornelius Fudge, the Minister for Magic, who refuses to believe that Lord Voldemort has returned.
Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix Lestrange, one of Lord Voldemort's right-hand Death Eaters who leads the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy, one of Lord Voldemort's right-hand Death Eaters who leads the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
Tom Felton as Draco Malfoy, Harry's rival. He supports Umbridge and helps her capture Dumbledore's Army.
James and Oliver Phelps as Fred and George Weasley, respectively, Ron's twin brothers who leave Hogwarts on broomstick amidst fireworks in defiance of Umbridge.
Harry Melling as Dudley Dursley, Harry's cousin who bullies him and is attacked by Dementors.
Richard Griffiths as Vernon Dursley and Fiona Shaw as Petunia Dursley, Harry's uncle and aunt who dote on their son.
Timothy Bateson as the voice of Kreacher, the disgruntled house-elf of the Black family.
Casting
Casting began as early as May 2005, when Radcliffe announced he would reprise his role as Harry. Across the media frenzy that took place during the release of Goblet of Fire (2005), most of the main returning actors announced their return to the series, including Grint, Watson, Lewis, Wright, Leung, and Fiennes.
A number of characters new to the series appear in the film. Staunton announced she would be playing the major new role of Dolores Umbridge in October 2005, and the announcements of the casting of the rest of the new characters to the series was spanned across 2006. Lynch won the role of Luna Lovegood over 15,000 other girls who attended the open casting call, waiting in a line of hopefuls that stretched a mile long. On 1 April 2006, Helen McCrory, who had been signed on to play Bellatrix Lestrange, announced that she was three months' pregnant and had to withdraw from the film. On 25 May 2006 the BBC reported that Helena Bonham Carter would play the role instead.
The inclusion or cutting of some characters sparked speculation from fans as to the importance of the characters in the final book of the series. In April 2006, representatives of Jim McManus said he would be playing Aberforth Dumbledore, Albus' brother and the barman of the Hog's Head, in which Harry and his friends found the D.A. A week later WB announced that the role was "very minor", allaying some of the speculation to the significance of the role, which, before the final book, was not even a speaking part. MTV reported in October 2006 that Dobby, a house-elf who appeared in the second film, Chamber of Secrets (2002), and in the fifth book, would be cut, opening up "plot questions" as to how the role of the elf would be filled. MTV also reported about a month before the release of the final book that Kreacher, the Black family's house-elf, was cut from the film in one draft of the script. However, after Rowling prodded the filmmakers to include him, saying, "You know, I wouldn't [cut him] if I were you. Or you can, but if you get to make a seventh film, you’ll be tied in knots", he was added back into the script.
Other more minor roles, were cut with subsequent drafts of the script. At the U.S. premiere of Goblet of Fire, series producer David Heyman said that former Hogwarts professor Gilderoy Lockhart, played by Kenneth Branagh in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002), was in the first draft of the script for Phoenix. However, neither Branagh nor the character of Lockhart appears in the final version. Tiana Benjamin was scheduled to return for the film in the role of Angelina Johnson, the captain of the Gryffindor Quidditch team, but she had to withdraw due to a commitment to playing Chelsea Fox in EastEnders. The character, as well as the entire Quidditch subplot, was ultimately cut from the film. She did, however, record sound clips for the Order of the Phoenix video game.
The family of footballer Theo Walcott made a cameo role in the film. Theo himself was due to appear as well, though his commitments to Arsenal forced him to pull out.
Differences from the book
At 766 pages in the British edition and 870 in the American edition, Order of the Phoenix is the longest Harry Potter book in the series. Screenwriter Michael Goldenberg described his task to cut down the novel as searching for "the best equivalent way to tell the story. My job was to stay true to the spirit of the book, rather than to the letter". Goldenberg said that Rowling told him, the producers, and Yates that "she just wanted to see a great movie, and gave [them] permission to take whatever liberties [they] felt [they] needed to take to translate the book into a movie she would love". Cutting down the book to meet the time frame of the film, Goldenberg explained, became "clearer when [he] figured out that the organizing principle of the screenplay was to narrate Harry's emotional journey". He and Yates "looked for every opportunity to get everything [they] could in there. And where [they] couldn't, to sort of pay homage to it, to have it somewhere in the background or to feel like it could be taking place off-screen."
One cut Goldenberg had to make, which he "hated" to do, was the absence of Quidditch, the wizarding sport. "The truth is that any movie made of this book, whoever made it, that had included the Quidditch subplot would have been a lesser film," he said. In the book, Ron grows as a character by trying out for the Quidditch team. "Ron facing challenges and coming into his own in the same way that Harry is, we tried to get that into the film in other ways, as much as possible. So, you feel like, if not the details of that story, at least the spirit of it is present in the film." The change disappointed Grint who had been "quite looking forward to the Quidditch stuff."
In a significant scene in the book, Harry sees a memory of his own father humiliating Snape in their school days, and Snape insulting his mother after she stood up for him. In the film, it is abbreviated to an "idea", in Goldenberg's words. "It's an iconic moment when you realize your parents are normal, flawed human beings. … Things get trimmed out, but I kept the meat of that in there — and that was what really gave me the coming-of-age story." Young Lily Potter did not appear at all, but promotional screenshots show unknown teenager Susie Shinner in the role.
The scene at St Mungo's, the hospital where Harry runs into classmate Neville Longbottom and learns that his parents were tortured into insanity by Bellatrix Lestrange, was cut because it required the construction of a new set. The main purpose of the action of the scene was relocated to the Room of Requirement after one of the D.A. lessons. Also, in order to speed up the film's climax, several events in the Ministry leading up to Harry's battle with Voldemort were removed, including the brain room. Mrs. Weasley's encounter with a boggart at Grimmauld Place followed suit.
The character of Kreacher the house-elf, who was included in the script only at Rowling's request, has a larger part in the book than the film. In the novel, he is seen saving some of the Black family's artifacts which the Order of the Phoenix throw away, one of which is a locket which becomes extremely important in the seventh book. "It was kind of tricky to raise that in our story, because it's for so much later," Yates said. "We figured we can probably introduce it later, and that's the approach we took". Whilst Kreacher remained, all scenes involving Dobby were cut, and his important actions given to other characters.
Rita Skeeter, the journalist played by Miranda Richardson in Goblet of Fire, was also removed. In the book, Hermione blackmails her into writing articles that support Harry as the rest of the wizarding world denies his claims. Richardson noted that "it's never gonna be the book on film, exactly. … They'll take certain aspects from the book and make it something that they hope is going to be commercial and that people want to see."
Distribution
Marketing
The first trailer was released on November 17, 2006, attached to another WB film, Happy Feet. It was made available online on November 20, 2006, on the Happy Feet website. The international trailer debuted online on April 22, 2007 at 14:00 UTC. On May 4, 2007, the domestic trailer was shown before Spider-Man 3.
Two posters released on the Internet that showed Harry accompanied by six classmates, including Hermione Granger, generated some controversy by the media. They were essentially the same picture, though one advertised the IMAX release. In one poster, the profile of Hermione, played by Emma Watson, was made curvier as the outline of her breasts was enhanced. Melissa Anelli, webmistress of noted fan site The Leaky Cauldron, wrote:
Representatives for WB later wrote about the poster under fire, "This is not an official poster. Unfortunately this image was accidentally posted on the IMAX website".
The video game version, designed by EA UK, was released June 25, 2007. Lego produced just one set, a model of Hogwarts, the lowest amount of sets for a film so far. NECA produced a series of action figures, whilst a larger array of smaller figures was also produced by PopCo Entertainment, a Corgi International company.
Release
The film was the third Harry Potter film to be given a simultaneous release in conventional theatres and IMAX. The IMAX release featured the full movie in 2-D and the final 20 minutes of the film in 3-D. According to estimates in March 2007, by Warner Bros., the film would debut on over 10,000 theatre screens during the summer.
The film was released in most countries in a two-week period starting 11 July 2007. WB has tried to stick with day-and-date releases for most countries "except in the Middle East and a few minor markets, because most are going to be in holidays at that point". The set of summer releases, even though the films are typically released in the winter, "really maximizes our opportunity," said a representative for WB.
Previews of the film began in March 2007 in the Chicago area. Under tight security to prevent piracy, WB had security guards patrol the aisles, looking for cell phone cameras or small recording devices, at a preview in Japan. The world premiere took place in Tokyo, Japan on 28 June 2007. MySpace users could bring copies of their online profiles to gain free admission to sneak previews in eight different cities across the country on 28 June 2007. The UK premiere took place on 3 July 2007 in London's Odeon Leicester Square, during which author J. K. Rowling made a public appearance. The U.S. premiere took place on 8 July in Los Angeles. After the premiere, the three young stars of the film series, Radcliffe, Grint, and Watson, were honoured with a ceremony where their handprints, footprints, and "wandprints" were placed in the cement in front of Grauman's Chinese Theatre.
The film was released on the following dates in these major English-speaking countries:
Malaysia, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand, South Africa, Philippines, United States — 11 July
Puerto Rico, Singapore, United Kingdom — 12 July
Republic of Ireland, India — 13 July
Originally, Warner Bros. set the Australian release date as 6 September 2007, nearly two months after the majority of other release dates. However, after complaints from the Australian community, including a petition garnering 2,000 signatures, the date was pulled back to 11 July 2007. The release dates of the film in the UK and U.S. were also moved back, both from 13 July, to 12 July and 11 July, respectively.
Even though the book is the longest in the series, the film is 138 minutes long, the shortest in the entire film series. In the motion picture rating system, it was rated the equivalent of the U.S.'s PG-13, the UK's 12A, and Australia's M, although in Canada, the film was only rated PG, and G in Quebec. Reasons for the ratings were variations on "fantasy violence" and "dark themes".
DVD
A 2-disc special edition DVD, as well as a fullscreen and a widescreen edition of the film was released on 12 November 2007 in the U.K., and will be released on 11 December 2007 in the US, with the HD DVD and Blu-Ray disc releases of the film occurring on the same date in each respective country. The DVD was released in Australia on 14 November 2007.
Extras appearing on the DVDs include additional scenes, a feature trailing a day in the life of Natalia Tena, who played Nymphadora Tonks, an A&E documentary about the films and books, and a featurette on film editing in Phoenix. The DVD-ROM will feature a timeline and a sneak peek of the next film, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2008). The HD DVD and Blu-Ray contain additional features, such as the "in-movie experience", a video commentary in which members of Dumbledore's Army share their favourite moments from the production of the film, and "focus points" featurettes on how certain scenes of the film were made.
Reaction
Critical reception
Reviews of the film are generally positive. The film currently holds a 76% "certified fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes. While this is indeed a positive score, it is the least favourably reviewed of the five Harry Potter films on the site. The Telegraph headlined their review "Potter film is the best and darkest yet". The New York Daily News gave the film four out of four stars, calling it the best Potter film yet and wrote that "die-hard Potter addicts will rejoice that Yates has distilled J.K. Rowling's broad universe with care and reverence." The Sunday Mirror, giving the film four out of five stars, called it "a dark and delicious delight [and] a must-see movie". The Miami Herald gave the film three stars out of four and wrote that the film "is the first installment in the soon-to-be series-of-seven that doesn't seem like just another spinoff capitalising on the money-minting Harry Potter brand name. Instead, Phoenix feels like a real 'movie'."
Imelda Staunton's performance as Dolores Umbridge and Helena Bonham Carter's as Bellatrix Lestrange were widely acclaimed; Staunton was described as the "perfect choice for the part" and "one of the film's greatest pleasures", "com[ing] close to stealing the show". Bonham Carter was said to be a "shining but underused talent". Variety praised Alan Rickman's portrayal of Severus Snape, writing that he "may have outdone himself; seldom has an actor done more with less than he does here". Newcomer Evanna Lynch, playing Luna Lovegood, also received good word from a number of reviewers including the New York Times who declared her "spellbinding".
Rolling Stone also lauded the three principal actors' achievements, especially Radcliffe: "One of the joys of this film is watching Daniel Radcliffe grow so impressively into the role of Harry. He digs deep into the character and into Harry's nightmares. It's a sensational performance, touching all the bases from tender to fearful." Rolling Stone's review also classified the film as better than the previous four instalments in the series, by losing the "candy-ass aspect" of the first two and "raising the bar" from the "heat and resonance" of the third and fourth.
The Times (London) expressed disappointment that the three main actors were not able to fully advance the emotional sides of their respective characters, weakening the film. The San Francisco Chronicle complained about a "lousy" storyline, alleging that the first twenty minutes of the film, when Harry is put on trial for performing magic outside of school and threatened with expulsion, but is cleared of all charges, did not advance the plot. The Hollywood Reporter wrote that Phoenix is "quite possibly the least enjoyable of the [series] so far," and that despite "several eye-catching moments", "the magic – movie magic, that is – is mostly missing." The review also criticised the underuse of the "cream of British acting", noting the brief appearances of Maggie Smith, Helena Bonham Carter, Emma Thompson, David Thewlis, Richard Griffiths, and Julie Walters.
Box office performance
The film opened to a worldwide 5-day opening of $333 million, the third-biggest opening of all time, behind only Spider-Man 3 (2007) and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (2007). Both of those films opened in many more markets — Spider-Man 3 in 108 and At World's End in 103, respectively, compared to Potter's 45. In the United States, tickets for hundreds of midnight showings of the film, bought from online ticket-seller Fandango, were sold out, making up approximately 90% of the site's weekly ticket sales. In the U.S. and Canada, midnight screenings (very early morning on 11 July) brought in $12 million from 2,311 midnight exhibitions making the showings "the most successful batch of midnight exhibitions ever." In one-night earnings, Phoenix is behind only At World's End, which had debuted four hours earlier on its date.
In the U.S. and Canada, Phoenix earned an additional $32.2 million on Wednesday, post-midnight showings, making it the biggest Wednesday single-day gross in box office history, with a total of $44.2 million. That amount tops Sony Pictures' Spider-Man 2, which had held the record since 2004 with its $40.4 million take on a Wednesday. It is also the fifth-biggest opening day for a movie in history, surpassing At World's End's $42.9 million. It earned $1.9 million from a record-breaking 91 IMAX screens, the highest opening day ever for any IMAX day of the week, beating Spider-Man 3's $1.8 million. In the U.K. the result was similar. The film made £16.5 million during its opening 4-day run, breaking the U.K. box office record for the biggest 4-day opening weekend ever.
Phoenix's domestic gross is at $291.9 million in the U.S. and Canada, and at £49.2 million, or $101.4 million in the U.K. Overseas, it has grossed $646.4 million, the fifth highest-grosser ever overseas, for a worldwide total of $938.3 million. It became the second-highest grossing Potter film worldwide, and the second Potter film to break the $900 million mark. It is the sixth-highest grossing film of all time and currently, the highest grossing 2007 film of Australia and the UK. IMAX Corporation and Warner Bros. Pictures announced that the film has made over $35 million on IMAX screens, worldwide, with an impressive per-screen average of $243,000 making it the highest grossing live-action IMAX release in history.
Awards
Before it was released, Order of the Phoenix was nominated in a new category at the 2007 MTV Movie Awards, "Best Summer Movie You Haven't Seen Yet". However, that award was won by Transformers. On 26 August 2007, the film won the award for "Choice Summer Movie – Drama/Action Adventure" at the Teen Choice Awards.
The film was also nominated for several awards at the 2007 Scream Awards presented by Spike TV, in the categories of "The Ultimate Scream", "Best Fantasy Movie", and "Best Sequel". Daniel Radcliffe was nominated in the "Fantasy Hero" categories, respectively. The film won for Best Sequel and Ralph Fiennes won for "Most Vile Villain". The film picked up three awards at the inaugural ITV National Movie Awards, taking "Best Family Film", "Best Actor" for Radcliffe and "Best Actress" for Emma Watson. The film was one of ten nominees for a 2007 Hollywood Movie of the Year.
Nicholas Hooper received a nomination for a World Soundtrack Discovery Award for his score to the film.
7. Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999)
(Collections: $922,379,000)
Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace is a 1999 space opera film written and directed by George Lucas. It is the fourth film to be released in the Star Wars saga, and the first in terms of internal chronology. The film follows two Jedi Knights, played by Liam Neeson and Ewan McGregor, who flee the planet Naboo with the planet's queen in the hope of finding a peaceful end to a trade dispute. Along the way, the ship must stop for repairs on the planet Tatooine, where the Jedi encounter Anakin Skywalker, played by Jake Lloyd, a young slave boy who is unusually strong with the Force. When the group returns to Naboo, they realize that the situation is much worse than they thought—the evil Sith have returned.
The release of the film on May 19, 1999 came almost sixteen years after the previous film in the series, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. Lucas began production when he felt special effects had advanced to the level of what he had envisioned for the film. Shooting took place during 1997 at various locations including Leavesden Studios and the Tunisian desert. The release was accompanied by extensive media coverage and great anticipation. Despite mixed reviews by critics, it grossed US$924.3 million worldwide, making it the highest grossing Star Wars film in the series (third when adjusted for inflation).
Story and Plot Point
The opening crawl reveals that the Trade Federation has blockaded the planet of Naboo in hope of resolving a galactic trade dispute. Chancellor Valorum of the Galactic Republic secretly sends two Jedi Knights—Qui-Gon Jinn and his padawan learner Obi-Wan Kenobi—to meet with the Trade Federation to settle the crisis. Unknown to them, the Trade Federation is in league with the mysterious Sith Lord Darth Sidious, who orders them to invade Naboo with their immense droid army and also to kill the two Jedi. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan escape and flee to the surface of Naboo, where they meet local Gungan outcast Jar Jar Binks. As Jar Jar brings them to an underwater Gungan settlement, the Trade Federation captures Naboo's leader, Queen Amidala. Through a Jedi mind trick, Qui-Gon secures a submarine, which he, Obi-Wan, and Jar Jar use to reach the capital of Naboo and rescue Queen Amidala and her escort. The group departs for Coruscant, the Galactic Republic's capital planet, to seek help from the Senate.
During the escape, the ship is attacked by the Federation blockade, forcing R2-D2, one of the ship's droids, to fix the shields. The attack damages the ship's hyperdrive, forcing the party to land on the desert planet of Tatooine for repairs. While searching for needed parts, Qui-Gon and a handmaiden named Padmé befriend young Anakin Skywalker, a nine-year-old human slave gifted in piloting and mechanics. Qui-Gon senses a strong presence of the Force in Anakin, and feels that he may be the "Chosen One" — an individual the Jedi believe will fulfill a prophecy by bringing balance to the Force. At Anakin's insistence, Qui-Gon enters Anakin into the Boonta Eve Podrace in a bid with Anakin's master, Watto, to gain the needed parts as well as Anakin's freedom. Anakin eludes several obstacles—including rival racer Sebulba—to win the race, gaining his freedom and bankrupting Watto. After hesitation, Anakin leaves his mother and his droid (C-3PO) behind on Tatooine to go with the Jedi. As the group prepares to depart, they are attacked by the Sith apprentice Darth Maul, who battles Qui-Gon until the heroes escape. On Coruscant, Qui-Gon informs the Jedi Council of the mysterious, well-trained attacker. The Council becomes concerned that this may indicate the reappearance of the Sith, an opposing order that followed the dark side of the Force. Qui-Gon informs the Council about Anakin, hoping that he can be trained as a Jedi. After testing the boy the Council refuses, worried that he is too old for training and that the fear and anger that he harbors will cloud his future. Meanwhile, Senator Palpatine of Naboo persuades Amidala to call a vote of no confidence in Chancellor Valorum. The vote removes Valorum from power and leads to Palpatine's nomination for the position, which Amidala considers too late to be effective. To stop the Federation invasion by herself, the Queen decides to return to Naboo with her security team, the two Jedi, R2-D2, Anakin, and Jar Jar.
On Naboo, Padmé reveals herself as Queen Amidala and forms an alliance with the Gungans for the battle against the Trade Federation. The Gungans march into battle to divert the Federation army away from the capital, allowing the others to infiltrate the palace. Once inside the palace hangar, the Jedi free several Naboo pilots, who regain their starfighters and assault the Federation droid ship. As they make their way to the throne room, the infiltration team is confronted by Darth Maul. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan engage Maul while the others take an alternative route. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan duel with the Sith Lord amongst the catwalks of a massive power-generating reactor core. Obi-Wan is briefly delayed, separating him from Qui-Gon and Maul. Meanwhile, Queen Amidala and her forces fight their way into the palace and capture Nute Gunray, Viceroy of the Trade Federation. Anakin—inadvertently joining the dogfight in space—destroys the droid-control ship's reactor with proton torpedoes, which deactivates the droid army in the midst of taking Gungan prisoners. In the reactor core, Qui-Gon re-engages Darth Maul singlehandedly, but is mortally wounded. Obi-Wan catches up with and defeats Maul in another intense lightsaber battle. With his final breath, Qui-Gon instructs Obi-Wan to train Anakin to become a Jedi.
In the aftermath, the newly elected Chancellor Palpatine congratulates Queen Amidala on her victory and promises to watch Anakin's career with great interest. Meanwhile, the Jedi Council promotes Obi-Wan to the level of Jedi Knight, and Yoda reluctantly accepts Obi-Wan's request to train Anakin as his padawan. During Qui-Gon's funeral, Mace Windu and Yoda agree that Maul was indeed a Sith. However, because there are always two Sith at any given time (a master and an apprentice), they believe that another Sith still exists, although who that Sith is remains uncertain. A large celebration is held on Naboo to celebrate the world's liberation and the newborn alliance between the Naboo and the Gungans.
Production
George Lucas began writing the new Star Wars trilogy on November 1, 1994.The screenplay for The Phantom Menace was adapted from Lucas' 15-page outline that was written in 1976. The early outline was originally designed to help Lucas track the character backstories and what events had taken place before the original trilogy. While the working title for the film was The Beginning, Lucas later revealed the true title to be The Phantom Menace; a title which, in contrast to the more self-explanatory titles of the other films, is ambiguous.
The lightsaber battles are influenced by kendo and kenjutsu
Within three to four months of Lucas beginning the writing process, Doug Chiang and his design team started a two-year process of reviewing thousands of designs for the film. Stunt coordinator Nick Gillard was recruited to create a new Jedi fighting style for the new trilogy. Gillard referred to the lightsaber battles as akin to a chess game "with every move being a check." Because of their short-range weapons, Gillard theorized that the Jedi would have had to develop a fighting style that merged every swordfighting style, such as kendo and other kenjutsu styles, with other swinging techniques, such as tennis swings and tree-chopping. While training Liam Neeson and Ewan McGregor, Gillard would write a sequence to be an estimated 60 seconds in length, meant to be among five to six sequences per fight. Lucas later referred to Jedi as being "negotiators", rather than high-casualty soldiers. The preference of hand-to-hand combat was implemented to give a more spiritual and intellectual role to the Jedi.
Filming began on June 26, 1997 and ended on September 30 of that year, primarily taking place at Leavesden Studios in England, with additional location shooting in the Tunisian desert for the Tatooine scenes and the Italian Caserta Palace for the Theed City Naboo Palace interior. The city of Mos Espa was built in the desert outside Tozeur. On the night following the third day of shooting in Tozeur, an unexpected sandstorm destroyed many sets and props. With a quick rescheduling to allow for repairs, production was able to leave Tunisia on the exact day originally planned.
Nine R2-D2 models were created; seven could run in the sand or on the stage, one was for Kenny Baker to be dropped into, and one was a "pneumatic" R2 that was able to shift from two to three legs. During filming in Tunisia and on sets to replicate the environment, the standard model was prone to skidding off in strange directions and having its motors lock up from the sand. Having confronted similar problems before, Lucas allowed two companies, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) and the production's British special effects department, to create their own versions of the perfect R2-D2. The finished product needed to navigate deep sand, light sand and door jambs. ILM's R2-D2 featured two wheelchair motors capable of pushing 440 pounds (198 kilograms) of weight. The British effects company produced a new foot and motor drive system, allowing R2 to drive over sand. The ILM version was primarily used on stage sets, whereas the British version was used in Tunisia.
Up until the production of The Phantom Menace, many special effects in the film industry were achieved by the use of miniature models, matte paintings, and on-set visual effects, although other films had made extensive use of computer-generated imagery (CGI). Visual effects supervisor John Knoll previewed 3,500 storyboards for the film, with Lucas accompanying him to explain what factors of the shots would be practical and what would be created through visual effects. Knoll later recounted that on hearing the explanations of the storyboards, he was unaware of any way to accomplish what he had seen. The result was to mix original techniques with the newest digital techniques to make it difficult for the viewer to guess which technique was being used. New computer software was written by Knoll and his visual effects team to create certain shots in the film. Another goal was to create computer-generated characters that could act seamlessly with live-action actors. While filming scenes with CGI characters, Lucas would block the characters using their corresponding voice actor on-set. The voice actors were then removed and the live-action actors would perform the same scene alone. A CGI character would later be added into the shot, completing the conversation.
Cast
Liam Neeson as Qui-Gon Jinn: a Jedi Master and mentor to Obi-Wan. When he discovers Anakin, he insists that the boy be trained as a Jedi, despite the protests of the council.
Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi: Qui-Gon's young Jedi apprentice. He holds Qui-Gon in high regard, but questions his motives at times.
Natalie Portman as Padmé/Queen Amidala: the young queen of Naboo, Amidala hopes to protect her planet from a blockade brought on by the Trade Federation.
Jake Lloyd as Anakin Skywalker: a nine-year-old slave boy from Tatooine. He is discovered to have a higher midi-cholorian count than any Jedi, and is therefore exceptionally gifted in the Force.
Ian McDiarmid as Senator Palpatine: the Senator of Naboo, who grows concerned about Naboo's blockade and defends his position in the Senate.
Ahmed Best as Jar Jar Binks: a clumsy Gungan, exiled from his home but taken in by Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan. He accompanies them throughout the film.
Pernilla August as Shmi Skywalker: Anakin's mother. She is concerned for her son's future, and must let her son leave with the Jedi.
Anthony Daniels as C-3PO: a protocol droid built by Anakin, he lacks a metal covering in this film, which R2-D2 refers to as being "naked".
Kenny Baker as R2-D2: an astromech droid, notable for saving Queen Amidala's ship when all other droids fail.
Ray Park as Darth Maul: a Zabrak Sith apprentice to Darth Sidious who uses a double-bladed lightsaber. He was voiced by Peter Serafinowicz.
Silas Carson as Nute Gunray: the Viceroy of the Trade Federation who leads the invasion of Naboo and tries to force Queen Amidala to sign a treaty to legitimise the occupation.
Andy Secombe as Watto: a junk dealer on Tatooine who owns Anakin and his mother as slaves.
Frank Oz as the voice of Yoda: the leader of the Jedi Council, who is apprehensive about allowing Anakin to be trained.
Samuel L. Jackson as Mace Windu: a member of the Jedi Council who also opposes the idea of training Anakin.
Terence Stamp as Finis Valorum: the current Chancellor who commissions Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon to negotiate with the Trade Federation Viceroy.
More than 3,000 young actors auditioned for the role of Anakin Skywalker through North America and the British Isles. They included child actors Michael Angarano, Justin Berfield and Haley Joel Osment. The field narrowed to three actors, all of whom were interviewed by Lucas and then screen tested with Natalie Portman.
Releases
The Phantom Menace received enormous media-created hype, which made Lucasfilm's $20 million advertising campaign-—with the distinctive artwork of Star Wars series artist Drew Struzan gracing the movie poster and other advertising—seem modest and almost unnecessary because of the unprecedented interest amongst both fans and the wider audience in the return of the franchise. Few film studios released films during the same week as the release of The Phantom Menace; among the more courageous were DreamWorks and Universal Studios, with the releases of The Love Letter and Notting Hill respectively. The Love Letter resulted in a box-office flop, whereas Notting Hill fared rather well and followed The Phantom Menace closely in second place. Challenger, Gray & Christmas of Chicago, a work-issues consulting firm, estimated that 2.2 million full-time employees did not appear for work to attend the film, resulting in $293 million in lost productivity. According to The Wall Street Journal, so many workers announced plans to view premiere screenings that many companies shut down on the opening day. Queue areas formed outside cinema theaters over a month in advance of ticket sales.
More theater lines appeared when it was announced that the film cinemas were not allowed to sell tickets in advance until two weeks into the release. This was done out of fear that family theater-goers would either be unable to receive tickets or would be forced to pay higher prices. Tickets were instead to be sold on a traditional first-come-first-serve basis. However, after meetings with the National Association of Theatre Owners, Lucasfilm agreed to allow advance ticket sales on May 12, 1999, provided that there be a 12-ticket limit per customer. As a result, however, some advance tickets were sold by "scalpers" as high as $100 apiece, which a distribution chief called "horrible", stating it was exactly what they wanted to avoid. Daily Variety reported that theater owners received strict instructions from Lucasfilm that the film could only play in the cinema's largest auditorium for the first 8–12 weeks; no honor passes were allowed for the first eight weeks, and they were obligated to send their payments to distributor 20th Century Fox within seven days. Servers at the film's official website became gridlocked soon after the release of the first teaser trailer, and many fans of the series paid full admission to see Meet Joe Black only to leave after the trailer had run. The same tradition followed months later when the theatrical trailer was featured in front of Wing Commander. The theatrical trailer caused even more notable media hype, because it not only premiered in theaters, but screened at the ShoWest Convention in Las Vegas, and was aired on television on Entertainment Tonight and Access Hollywood. An unusual marketing scheme was pursued across the United Kingdom, where the teaser trailer was released on December 2, 1998 and then pulled from theaters six weeks later.
Despite worries about whether the film would be finished in time, two weeks before its theatrical release Lucasfilm pushed the release date up from May 21, 1999 to May 19, 1999. At the ShoWest Convention, Lucas stated that the change was to give the fans a "head start" by allowing them to view it over the week and allowing families the chance to view on the weekends. In a nod toward his future with digital technology, Lucas stated that the film would be released on four digital projectors on June 18, 1999. Eleven charity premieres were staged across the United States on May 16, 1999; receipts from the Los Angeles event were given to the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation with corporate packages available for $5,000–$25,000. Other charity premieres included the Dallas premiere for Children's Medical Center, the Aubrey Fund for Pediatric Cancer Research at the Sloan-Kettering Hospital in New York, the Big Brother/Sister Assa. of the Philadelphia premiere, and the Children's National Medical Center in Washington D.C. A statement said that tickets were sold at $500 apiece and that certain sections were set aside for disadvantaged children.
DVD release
Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace was released on DVD in 2001; it was the first Star Wars film to be officially released on DVD. The DVD version of the film had certain scenes and other elements edited and inserted by George Lucas, making it slightly different from its theatrical release while retaining an identical plot. Some scenes were modified, and some that were unfinished by the date of release were added to the film. The DVD features a commentary track by Lucas, producer Rick McCallum, editor Ben Burtt, animation director Rob Coleman, and visual effects supervisors John Knoll, Dennis Muren, and Scott Squires. It includes seven deleted scenes completed specifically for the DVD, and The Beginning: Making Episode I, an hour-long documentary film drawn from more than 600 hours of footage, including an insider's look at Lucasfilm and ILM during the production.
Reaction
The Phantom Menace received mixed reviews (scoring 63% favorable rating among film critics with an average rating of 6/10). Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times gave it three and a half stars (out of four), praising its visual effects and calling it "exhilarating." Some aspects of the scripting were criticized. Much criticism was directed at the character of Jar Jar Binks, who was regarded by many members of the older fan community as a purely merchandising opportunity rather than a serious character in the film. In defense of the character, George Lucas stated that the Star Wars films are for children and that the original trilogy also drew similar criticism from fans over the characters R2-D2, C-3PO, and Yoda. He also criticized the American media for using fan opinions from the internet as a reliable source for their news stories. On the other hand, many fans and critics agree that the lightsaber duel between Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Maul — showcasing astounding choreography and Ray Park's martial arts skills — is a high point, and one of the best lightsaber duels in the entire Star Wars saga. In 2002, with the release of Attack of the Clones, actor Ewan McGregor admitted the film was "kind of flat".
The introduction of midi-chlorians (microscopic organisms that allow communication with the Force) in the film has been controversial. Those against it have seen it as a concept that negates the spiritual quality of the Force. Film historian Daniel Dinello notes, "Anathema to Star Wars fanatics who thought they reduced the Force to a kind of viral infection, midi-chlorians provide a biological interface, the link between physical bodies and spiritual energy." Religion expert John D. Caputo adds, "In the 'Gospel according to Lucas' a world is conjured up in which the intractable oppositions that have tormented religious thinkers for centuries are reconciled. ... The gifts that the Jedi masters enjoy have a perfectly plausible scientific basis, even if its ways are mysterious: their bodily cells have a heavier than usual concentration of 'midi-chlorians.'"
After the release of the film, there was controversy over whether several alien characters reflected racial stereotypes, notably: the oafish, slow-witted Jar Jar Binks had long droopy ears reminiscent of dreadlocks and spoke with what many perceived as a Caribbean patois (particularly Jamaican Creole); the greedy and corrupt Neimoidians of the Trade Federation spoke with Asian accents; and the unprincipled desert trader Watto is interpreted by some as a Fagin-esque Jewish stereotype. Lucas has categorically denied all of these implications.
Box office performance
The Phantom Menace was 1999's most successful movie, earning more than $431 million in North America and $493 million elsewhere. The worldwide total was some $924 million, making it the second-highest grossing film of all time (behind 1997's Titanic) after its first release. The Phantom Menace ranks 5th on the all-time domestic and 8th on the all-time worldwide box-office lists and 19th on the all-time domestic list when adjusted for inflation.
The Phantom Menace also accumulated a number of box office records. It broke the record for the largest single-day gross for a single movie by earning more than $28 million opening-day. It was not until the 2001 film Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone was released that these numbers were greatly exceeded. The Phantom Menace, in a record five days, passed the $100 million mark, breaking the record set by The Lost World: Jurassic Park by 24 hours (the record has since been reduced to just two days, by Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest). However The Phantom Menace surprisingly failed to take the record for biggest opening weekend, grossing $64.8 million, compared to The Lost World's $72.1 million. Sales reached the $200 million mark in just 13 days, easily beating the previous record held by Independence Day by seven-and-a-half days. The film took only 28 days to earn $300 million, beating Titanic's record by a 16-day margin. However, the film did not generate enough repeat viewers to dethrone Titanic.
Awards
Between them, the prequels did not receive any Academy Awards. Episode I was nominated for three Academy Awards: Ben Burtt and Tom Bellfort received the nomination for Best Sound Effects; John Knoll, Dennis Muren, Scott Squires, and Rob Coleman received the nomination for Best Visual Effects; Gary Rydstrom, Tom Johnson, Shawn Murphy, and John Midgley received the nomination for Best Sound. However, The Matrix captivated Academy voters, and became the first film to beat a Star Wars film for the visual effects Academy Award; also, Phantom Menace became the first film in the series to not receive nominations for Art Direction or Original Score. In contrast, the film received several Golden Raspberry, or Razzie, nominations. These included Worst Picture, Worst Director, Worst Screenplay, Worst Supporting Actor (Jake Lloyd as Anakin), Worst Supporting Actress (Sofia Coppola as Saché), Worst Screen Couple (Jake Lloyd and Natalie Portman), and won the Worst Supporting Actor category with Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best.
Historical and cultural allusions
Like previous Star Wars films, The Phantom Menace makes several references to both historical events and films that George Lucas viewed in his youth. The Star Wars movies typically mix several selected concepts from different mythologies and religions together.
The horns and tattoos of Darth Maul drew upon depictions of the Devil.
Although Jedi Knights practice Zen and martial arts, they are also inspired by Samurai warriors. The name "Qui-Gon" paraphrases the term Qigong, which refers to a Chinese discipline involving meditation and martial arts. The words qi and chi are different romanizations of the same Chinese term, referring to the energy thought to flow through all living things from the Tao; the Tao is also a description for the Force. These elements derive primarily from Eastern, Southern, and Native American religions and myths.
There are many Christian and biblical references in the film, such as the appearance of Darth Maul. Maul's design draws heavily from traditional depictions of the Christian Devil, complete with red skin and horns. The Star Wars film cycle features a similar religious narrative involving Anakin Skywalker, a messiah conceived of a virgin birth, who is tempted to join the Sith — his sworn enemy — in order to save the life of Padmé Amidala, his secret wife. This action seemingly prevents him from fulfilling his duty as the "Chosen One" — the individual prophesied to destroy the Sith. The inspiration behind the story of the "virgin birth" parallels a concept developed by Joseph Campbell and his work on The Hero with a Thousand Faces, the same work that heavily influenced Lucas in his writing of the original Star Wars trilogy.
Japanese film such as Akira Kurosawa's The Hidden Fortress was a source of inspiration for Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, and scholars point out that The Phantom Menace was likewise influenced by Japanese culture. Film historians Geoff King and Tanya Krzywinska assert, "The costume and make-up designs ... favour a mixture of the gothic and the oriental over anything very futuristic. The gothic is most strongly apparent in Darth Maul's demonic horns and the red and black make-up mask that borrows from the facial designs found in depictions of Japanese demons." King and Krzywinska note that "Qui-Gon's pony tail and Obi-Wan's position of apprentice further encourage a reading in terms of the Samurai tradition." Finally, "Amidala, in keeping with her status and character, has a number of highly formal outfits ... to go with hair sculpted into a curve that frames make-up of a Japanese cast."
References to the original trilogy
The films of the prequel trilogy feature events, dialogue and brief references that echo the original trilogy. Lucas has referred to the Star Wars saga as a poem that rhymes. The most well-known of these references is the phrase "I have a bad feeling about this"; the phrase is stated by at least one character in each movie. It is one of the first lines in the film and is chronologically the first line spoken by Obi-Wan Kenobi in the films.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack for the film was released by Sony Classical on May 4, 1999. As with previous Star Wars installments, the score was composed and conducted by John Williams. He began recording the score with the London Voices and London Symphony Orchestra at Abbey Road Studios on February 10, 1999. A two-disk "Ultimate Edition" was released on November 14, 2000. The set features almost the entire score as it is heard in the film. While the original soundtrack released featured only 17 tracks, the Ultimate Edition featured 68 tracks. The original soundtrack condensed the number of tracks by allowing multiple songs to play per most tracks.
The popular track "Duel of the Fates" is one of the few choral pieces in Star Wars music. The chorus was introduced to give a religious, temple-like feel to the epic lightsaber duel. The theme was later put to a music video that is available on the DVD. The film score received a 2000 Grammy Award nomination.
Novelization
A novelization of the film was written by Terry Brooks. Brooks met with Lucas before writing the book and received his approval and guidance, including information about impending developments in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones and Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. This is evident in the passage on Tusken Raiders (which foreshadows the death of Anakin's mother in Attack of the Clones), and in the events leading up to Anakin's fight with the Rodian child Greedo; these events indicate that Anakin's anger derives from his anguish at Padmé's impending departure (foreshadowing the plot of Revenge of the Sith).
The novel includes three chapters of material created by Brooks solely for the novel. The first two chapters of the book concern Anakin's next-to-last Podrace and its aftermath; a later chapter describes an encounter between Anakin and a wounded Tusken Raider in the desert. The novelization features one of the first descriptions of the history of the Sith; it is the first Star Wars novel to mention the ancient Sith Lord Darth Bane, who would later become an important character in the franchise's "Expanded Universe" of novels and comic books. According to Terry Brooks' memoir, Sometimes the Magic Works, Lucas spent an hour on the telephone with him discussing the history of the Jedi and the Sith. Therefore, the information on this subject provided in Brooks' novelization can be presumed to derive from Lucas. Brooks devotes an entire chapter of Sometimes the Magic Works to the writing of The Phantom Menace's novelization.
8. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
(Collections: $921,600,000)
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers is a fantasy epic film, directed by Peter Jackson and based on the second volume of J. R. R. Tolkien's book The Lord of the Rings. It was released on December 18, 2002, with a running time of 179 minutes.
Continuing the plot of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, it intercuts three storylines, as Frodo and Sam continue their quest to destroy the One Ring in Mordor and meet Gollum, its former owner. Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli come across the war torn nation of Rohan as well as the resurrected Gandalf, before fighting at the Battle of Helm's Deep, whilst Merry and Pippin escape capture and meet Treebeard, the tree-like giant.
The movie was critically acclaimed, although the adaptation was more controversial than the first film. It was an enormous box-office success, earning over $900 million worldwide, outgrossing its predecessor, and is currently the 7th-highest-grossing film of all time. The Special Extended DVD Edition was released on November 19, 2003.
Story and Plot Point
(Collections: $958,404,152)
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End is a 2007 adventure film, the third in the Pirates of the Caribbean series. Gore Verbinski directed the film, as he did with the previous two. It was shot in two shoots during 2005 and 2006, the former simultaneously with the preceding film, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest.The plot follows the crew of the Black Pearl rescuing Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp), from Davy Jones' Locker, and then preparing to fight the East India Trading Company, led by Cutler Beckett (Tom Hollander) and Davy Jones (Bill Nighy), who plan to extinguish piracy. The film was released in English-speaking countries on May 24, 2007 after Disney opted to move the release date to a day earlier than originally planned. Critical reviews were mixed, but At World's End was a box office hit, becoming the most successful film of the year.
Story and Plot Point
Lord Cutler Beckett begins executing anyone associated with piracy and commands Davy Jones to destroy all pirate ships. To confront Beckett’s assault, the nine pirate lords making up the Brethren Court have been summoned to convene on Shipwreck Cove. However, Captain Jack Sparrow, pirate lord of the Caribbean, never appointed his successor, and therefore must be present. Captain Barbossa leads Will, Elizabeth, Tia Dalma and the Black Pearl crew to rescue Jack. Sao Feng, pirate lord of Singapore, possesses a map to World's End, the gateway to Davy Jones' Locker. Elizabeth and Barbossa attempt to bargain with Feng for the map and a ship, but Feng is furious that Will already attempted to steal it. The British Royal Navy, acting under orders from Beckett, suddenly attack Feng's bathhouse. During the ensuing chaos, Will strikes a bargain with Feng for the Black Pearl in exchange for Sparrow, whom Feng wants to turn over to Beckett, presumably in exchange for immunity from Davy Jones' attacks on pirates. Will wants the Black Pearl to rescue his father from the Flying Dutchman.
The crew journey through a frozen sea and sail over an enormous waterfall into the Locker. Aboard the Pearl, Sparrow is suffering hallucinations about an entire crew comprising himself, each representing a different facet of his character. The Pearl is dragged to an ocean shore by crab-like creatures, and Jack is reunited with his old shipmates, though he is initially reluctant to rejoin a crew who, among them, include four people who had attempted to kill him in the past. As the Black Pearl crew seek an escape route, they see dead souls floating under the water. Tia Dalma reveals that Davy Jones was appointed by his lover, Calypso, goddess of the sea, to ferry the dead to the next world. In return, Jones was allowed to step upon land for one day every ten years to be with his love, but when she failed to meet him, the scorned captain abandoned his duty and transformed into a monster. Elizabeth sees her father, Governor Weatherby Swann's soul pass by in a boat; he was murdered by Beckett. A distraught Elizabeth vows revenge.
The Black Pearl remains trapped in the Locker until Sparrow deciphers the map, realizing the ship must be capsized to return to the living world. They overturn the ship, and at sunset, upturn back into the living world. Upon their return, Sao Feng attacks, revealing his agreement with Will. But he betrays Will, having made a deal with Cutler Beckett to hand over the crew and keep the Black Pearl. Onboard Endeavor, Sparrow refuses to divulge to Beckett where the Brethren Court will convene. Beckett double-crosses Feng by keeping the Black Pearl for his armada, and in turn Feng gives Sparrow the ship back, while taking Elizabeth, whom he believes is Calypso. Aboard his warship, the Empress, Feng tells Elizabeth that it was the first Brethren Court who trapped Calypso into human form so they could control the seas. Feng is mortally wounded when Davy Jones attacks his ship. Before dying, he appoints Elizabeth his heir, making her captain and the pirate lord of Singapore. She and the crew are imprisoned in Flying Dutchman's brig. Also aboard is Admiral James Norringtow, who betrays Beckett and frees Elizabeth and her crew who escape back to their ship, although Norrington is killed when he is discovered by Bootstrap Bill.
Will leaves a trail of corpses for Beckett's ship to follow. Sparrow catches him and tosses him overboard, but he first gives him his magical compass, apparently intending for Beckett to find them. Will is picked up by Beckett's ship, and it is revealed that it was Davy Jones who masterminded Calypso's imprisonment by the pirate lords. At Shipwreck Island, the nine pirate lords disagree over freeing Calypso. Barbossa calls upon Captain Teague Sparrow, Keeper of the Pirata Codex and Jack's father, to reveal that a Pirate King is needed to declare war. Elizabeth, newly ordained Pirate lord of Singapore, is elected "Pirate King" after Sparrow’s vote breaks a stalemate (during previous elections, each pirate lord voted only for himself/herself). She orders the pirates to fight Beckett. During a preceding parlay with Beckett and Jones, Elizabeth and Barbossa swap Sparrow for Will.
Barbossa tricked the other pirate lords into giving him their insignias, which he needs to free Calypso, who is Tia Dalma. When Barbossa releases her in a ritual, her fury over Jones' betrayal unleashes a violent maelstrom just as the Navy's massive fleet appears on the horizon. During the battle, Sparrow escapes the Flying Dutchman with the Dead Man's Chest. As the Black Pearl and the Flying Dutchman face off near the centre of a massive whirlpool, Will proposes to Elizabeth. They insist Barbossa marry them as Jack is onboard the Flying Dutchman, and so unavailable to marry them as Captain of the Black Pearl. Barbossa agrees, marries them and continues fighting as they exchange vows and kiss in the ensuing chaos. When Davy Jones mortally wounds Will aboard his ship, Bootstrap Bill attacks Jones. Jack, who wanted the heart for his own immortality, places a knife in Will's hand and helps him stab Jones' heart, killing Jones and making Will the Flying Dutchman's captain. After Jack tears Elizabeth away from the seemingly dead body of her husband, they escape the Flying Dutchman from some quick thinking on Jack's part. The crew cut out Will's heart and place it into the "Dead Man's Chest": the crewmen regain their humanity, and Will and Sparrow captain the Flying Dutchman and the Black Pearl respectively to destroy Beckett's ship, the Endeavor, forcing the enemy fleet to retreat.
Although Will has been saved and the Dutchman crew has regained their humanity, he must now spend the next ten years at sea. He and Elizabeth have one day together and consummate their marriage on an island before Will must leave for his new life. Will gives Elizabeth the "Dead Man's Chest" for safekeeping. Shortly after, Barbossa again commandeers the Black Pearl, stranding Jack and Gibbs in Tortuga. Having anticipated Barbossa's deception, however, Sparrow has already removed the map's middle that leads to the Fountain of Youth. In a post-credits scene set ten years later, Will appears on the horizon aboard the Flying Dutchman and is seen sailing towards land to meet Elizabeth and their adolescent child. (Although there is no evidence for this in the film itself, the screenwriters have said that because Elizabeth stayed true to Will for the interim 10 years, the curse is lifted and he is free of the Flying Dutchman.)
Cast
Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow: Pirate Lord of the Caribbean Sea, he was tricked by Elizabeth Swann into being swallowed by the Kraken to save the crew. Sparrow is trapped in Davy Jones' Locker until a rescue party arrives, whereupon he returns to the living world to battle his nemesis, Davy Jones. While in the Locker, he suffers hallucinations, seeing multiple versions of himself, each representing a different facet of his personality.
Orlando Bloom as Will Turner: A blacksmith turned pirate, and the son of the pirate "Bootstrap Bill" Turner, a crewman on the Flying Dutchman, commanded by Davy Jones. Will eventually becomes the Captain of the "Flying Dutchman" after killing Davy Jones. Will hopes to free his father, and marry Elizabeth even though he believes she loves Sparrow.
Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Swann: Governor Swann’s daughter and engaged to Will. She tricked Jack Sparrow into being swallowed by the Kraken to save herself and the Black Pearl crew. Jack is at first unable to forgive her for sending him to his doom, but eventually relents.
Geoffrey Rush as Captain Hector Barbossa: Pirate Lord of the Caspian Sea, he was the first mate of the Black Pearl under Jack's command before leading a mutiny. Although killed by Sparrow a year before, a resurrected Barbossa returns to lead the Black Pearl crew to the World's End. He and Sparrow argue over who is the real captain of the Black Pearl.
Bill Nighy provides a short live-action scene, in addition to the motion capture and voice acting for Davy Jones: Ghostly ruler of the ocean realm, captain of The Flying Dutchman, and to whom Jack owed a blood debt. His heart was captured by James Norrington, and as a result, he is now trapped into service to Lord Cutler Beckett of the East India Trading Company, who forces him to kill the Kraken. During a brief reunion, Tia Dalma momenttarily restores his former human form.
Tom Hollander as Lord Cutler Beckett: Chairman of the East India Trading Company and the main villain of the film. Beckett possesses Davy Jones' heart, thus controlling the world's oceans and seven seas.
Naomie Harris as Tia Dalma/Calypso: A witch who travels with the Black Pearl crew to rescue Jack, she also raised Hector Barbossa from the dead at the conclusion of Dead Man's Chest and is the woman Davy Jones fell in love with. She is more powerful than the crew realizes.
Stellan Skarsgård as William "Bootstrap Bill" Turner: Will's father, he is cursed to serve an eternity aboard The Flying Dutchman. As he slowly loses his humanity to the sea, he becomes mentally confused, barely recognizing his own son.
Chow Yun-Fat as Captain Sao Feng: Pirate Lord of the South China Sea, he captains the Chinese ship The Empress. He has a bad history with Sparrow and is reluctant to aid in his rescue from Davy Jones' Locker. "Sao Feng" (嘯風) means "Howling Wind" in Chinese.
Kevin McNally as Joshamee Gibbs: Jack's loyal and superstitious first mate.
Jack Davenport as James Norrington: Promoted to the rank of admiral, he has an alliance with Lord Beckett and the East India Trading Company after stealing the heart of Davy Jones and bargaining it to Cutler Beckett in exchange for his career. He is also Elizabeth's former fiancé and still loves her.
Lee Arenberg as Pintel: A slightly mischievous, stolid member of Jack's crew.
Mackenzie Crook as Ragetti: A Black Pearl crewman and Pintel's eccentric companion who wears a wooden eye.
Jonathan Pryce as Weatherby Swann: Governor of Port Royal, Jamaica. He is Elizabeth's father and is also trapped in Beckett's service.
Keith Richards as Teague: A pirate and the Keeper of the Pirata Codex for the Brethren Court. He is Jack Sparrow's father, and keeps Jack's dead mother's shrunken head with him.
Production
Following Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl's success in 2003, the cast and crew signed on for two more sequels to be shot back-to-back. For the third film, director Gore Verbinski wanted to return the tone to that of a character piece after using the second film to keep the plot moving. The film would explore Jack Sparrow's mad desperation to not return to Davy Joneel’ Locker, Barbossa's political manipulations, the completion of Will and Elizabeth's coming of age arcs, the increasing humanity in Davy Jones and Norrington and vice versa in "Bootstrap" Bill. Actor Johnny Depp was happy that he got more screentime with Geoffrey Rush than in the first film: "We're like a couple of old ladies fighting over their knitting needles... it's fantastic!" Inspired by the real-life confederation of pirates, Elliott and Rossio looked at historical figures and created fictional characters from them to expand the scope beyond the main cast. Finally embellishing their mythology, Calypso was introduced, going full circle to Barbossa's mention of "heathen gods" that created the curse in the first film.
Parts of the third film were shot during location filming of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, a long shoot which finished on March 1, 2006. Chow Yun-Fat was confirmed to be playing Sao Feng in July 2005 while production of the second film was on hiatus. Chow relished playing the role, even helping out crew members with props. The two-film schedule resumed in August at the Singapore set, built on Stage 12 of the Universal backlot. It comprised 40 structures within a 80 by 130 foot tank that was 3½ feet deep. As 18th century Singapore is not a well-documented era, the filmmakers chose to use an Expressionist style based on Chinese and Malaysian cities of the same period. The design of the city was also intended by Verbinski to parody spa culture, with fungi growing throughout the set. Continuing this natural feel, the floorboards of Sao Feng's bathhouse had to be cut by hand, and real humidity was created by the combination of gallons of water and the lighting equipment on the set.
Keith Richards, who partially inspired Johnny Depp's portrayal of Sparrow, was meant to appear in Dead Man's Chest, but there was no room for him in the story, and he almost missed filming a scene in At World's End following injuries sustained by falling out of a palm tree. In June 2006, Verbinski finally managed to make room in Richards' schedule to shoot in September, when he spent his three days of shooting drunk. Filming resumed in August 2006 at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah and continued until early 2007 for seventy days off the California coast, as all the shooting required in the Caribbean had been conducted in 2005. Davy Jones' Locker was shot at Utah, and it was shot in a monochromatic way to represent its different feeling from the usual colorful environment of a pirate.
The climactic battle was shot in a former air hanger at Palmdale, California, where the cast had to wear wetsuits underneath their costumes on angle-tipped ships. The water-drenched set was kept in freezing temperatures, to make sure bacteria did not come inside and infect the crew. The maelstrom was one of many water-based challenges for Industrial Light & Magic in the film, spending just five months finishing the special effects. ILM took on 750 shots, while Digital Domain also took on 300. A second unit shot at Niagara Falls.
Filming finished on January 10, 2007 in Molokai, and the first assembly cut was three hours. Twenty minutes were removed, not including end credits, though producer Jerry Bruckheimer maintained that the long running time was needed to make the final battle work in terms of build-up. Hans Zimmer composed the score as he did for the previous film, composing eight new motifs including a new love theme for the At World's End soundtrack.
Marketing
At the 2006 San Diego Comic-Con International, two minutes of footage were shown including Captain Jack Sparrow having to convince the crew to run back and forth on the ship deck to rock a ship over and Sparrow and Davy Jones battling on top of a crow's nest during the maelstrom battle. After a muted publicity campaign, the trailer finally debuted at ShoWest 2007. It was shown on March 18, 2007 at a special screening of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl named "Pirates Ultimate Fan Event", and was then shown on March 19 during Dancing with the Stars, before it debuted online.
Action figures by NECA were released in late April. Board games such as a Collectors Edition Chess Set, Monopoly Game and Pirates Dice Game (Liar's Dice) were also released. Master Replicas have made sculptures of characters and replicas of jewelery and the Dead Man's Chest. A video game with the same title as the film was released on May 22, 2007 on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, PSP, PlayStation 2, PC and Nintendo DS formats. The soundtrack and its remix were also released on May 22.
Release
The world premiere of At World's End was held on May 19, 2007, at Disneyland, home of the ride that inspired the movie and where the first two films in the trilogy debuted. Disneyland offered the general public a chance to attend the premiere through the sale of tickets, priced at $1,500 each, with proceeds going to the Make-A-Wish Foundation charity. Just a few weeks before the film's release, Walt Disney Pictures decided to move the United States opening of At World's End from screenings Friday, May 25, 2007 to Thursday at 8 PM, May 24, 2007. The film opened in 4,362 theaters domestically, beating Spider-Man 3's theater opening record by 110.
Reaction
Like Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, At World's End received mixed reviews with the most common criticism of the film from reviewers was that the plot was too convoluted for them to follow. Drew McWeeny was an exception, praising its complexity as giving it repeat-viewing value, and its conclusion as "perhaps the most canny move it makes." Todd Gilchrist found the story too similar to other cinematic trilogies such as Star Wars but praised the production values. Brian Lowry felt that "unlike last year's bloated sequel, it at least possesses some semblance of a destination, making it slightly more coherent - if no less numbing during the protracted finale." Total Film praised the performances but complained that the twists and exposition made it hard to care for the characters. Edward Douglas liked the film but had issues with its pacing, while Blake Wright criticized the Davy Jones' Locker and Calypso segments. James Berardinelli found it the weakest of the trilogy as "the last hour offers adventure as rousing as anything provided in either of the previous installments... which doesn't account for the other 108 minutes of this gorged, self-indulgent, and uneven production." Peter Travers praised Richards and Rush but felt "there can indeed be too much of a good thing," regarding Depp's character. In review aggregate websites, At World's End has a "rotten" rating of 45% on Rotten Tomatoes and 50% at Metacritic.
Favorable reviewer Alex Billington noted, "This is just how the film industry works nowadays; critics give bad opinions, the public usually has a differing opinion, and all is well in the world of Hollywood since the studios made their millions anyway." On May 24, 2007 the film earned US$58 million worldwide, and earned the fifth-biggest three-day opening yet, breaking the Memorial Day weekend record of X-Men: The Last Stand, with a domestic gross of $142 million. The addition of the Thursday screenings brought the opening total to $156 million. Elsewhere, it grossed $205 million, bringing the worldwide opening gross to $332 million. By June 13, 2007, the film had grossed $500 million overseas in 20 days, breaking Spider-Man 3's record for reaching that amount the fastest. The film has grossed $961 million worldwide, making it the highest grossing film of 2007, and the fifth-highest grossing film worldwide.
Censorship
At least one nation's official censors have ordered scenes cut from the movie. According to Xinhua, the state news agency of the People's Republic of China, 10 minutes of footage containing Chow Yun-Fat's portrayal of Singaporean pirate Sao Feng have been trimmed from versions of the film which may be shown in China. Chow is onscreen for 20 minutes in the uncensored theatrical release of the film. No official reason for the censorship was given, but unofficial sources within China have indicated that the character offered a negative and stereotypical portrayal of the Chinese people.
Home video
The one-disc and two-disc versions of the Region 2 package versions of the DVD were released in the UK on November 19, 2007, on both DVD and Blu-Ray formats. The Australian DVD was released on November 21, 2007, and it will be released on December 4, 2007 in the United States
6. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
(Collections: $936,580,420)
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is a 2007 fantasy adventure film, based on the novel of the same name, by J. K. Rowling. Directed by David Yates, it is the fifth film in the popular Harry Potter film series. The story follows Harry Potter entering his fifth year at the magic school Hogwarts. The Ministry of Magic is denying the return of Lord Voldemort and also appoints a new teacher, Dolores Umbridge, a bureaucrat who slowly becomes an authoritarian figure in the school.The screenplay was written by Michael Goldenberg, who replaced Steve Kloves, writer of the first four films. Live action filming started in February 2006 and finished in the end of November, and post-production on the film continued for several months afterwards. Warner Bros., the distributor of the film, scheduled a UK release date of 12 July 2007, and a U.S. release date of 11 July 2007, both in conventional and IMAX theatres.
The sixth-highest grossing film of all time, it was a critical and commercial success, and was acclaimed by the author, Rowling, who has consistently offered her praise for the film adaptations of her works, and evaluated Order of the Phoenix as "the best one yet."
Story and Plot Point
Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger enter their fifth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Much of the wizarding community has shunned Harry and Albus Dumbledore, Hogwarts headmaster, who claim that Lord Voldemort has, after 14 years, regained a body and been restored to full power, and are instead influenced by the propaganda of The Daily Prophet and the ignorance of the Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge. Fudge appoints a new Hogwarts Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, Dolores Umbridge, who begins to take over Hogwarts through the support of the Ministry.
Following the Ministry line, Umbridge refuses to acknowledge that Voldemort has returned, and when Harry insists that he has, she gives him detention during which he is required to write lines with a quill that causes the words to cut into the skin of his hand. Umbridge's teaching is inadequate, consisting of memorisation of the textbook instead of any practical instruction in defensive spells. Twenty-seven students form "Dumbledore's Army" (the D.A.), an underground organisation in which Harry teaches them to use defensive magic.
Meanwhile, Harry has been seeing into Voldemort's mind through his dreams. In one, he sees Ron's father Arthur attacked in the Department of Mysteries in the Ministry. Harry immediately tells Dumbledore, who believes that Voldemort may have a connection to Harry's mind. Harry begins lessons with Professor Snape to close his mind in the event that Lord Voldemort should become aware of the connection between Harry's mind and his own. During the course of these grueling sessions Harry accidentally enters Snape's mind and has an uncomfortable vision of his own father bullying the loner Snape when they were students at Hogwarts. Enraged, Snape puts an end to the sessions.
Harry begins a relationship with fellow D.A. member Cho Chang, but it comes to an abrupt end when she informs Umbridge of the D.A (under the influence of a truth potion). Umbridge apprehends Harry and goes to Dumbledore, who tells her and Fudge that the D.A. was formed on his instructions. Upon hearing this, Fudge orders Dumbledore's arrest, but Dumbledore summons his phoenix Fawkes and both vanish in a blaze of light from his office.
When Harry, who is unable to close his mind, has a vision of his godfather Sirius Black being tortured by Voldemort in the Department of Mysteries, he launches a rescue attempt, but is waylaid by Umbridge and taken to her office. Umbridge asks Snape for Veritaserum (truth serum) but Snape tells her that she used up all of his stock interrogating students, including Cho. Hermione tricks Umbridge into accompanying her and Harry to the Forbidden Forest, where Umbridge is abducted by a centaur herd after insulting them and injuring one of them. Hagrid's half-brother, the giant Grawp, assists Harry and Hermione to escape. Harry, Ron, and Hermione, with D.A. members Ginny Weasley, Neville Longbottom, and Luna Lovegood, fly to the Ministry of Magic. In the Hall of Prophecy, Harry and his friends discover a small glowing orb with Harry's name on it. When Harry retrieves it, he finds that it contains a prophecy about himself and Voldemort. Suddenly, Lucius Malfoy appears with the Death Eaters, Voldemort's followers, and explains that Sirius is not there — the vision was a trick to make Harry retrieve the prophecy, which could only be taken from its resting place by one of the people about whom it was made.
A battle erupts throughout the Ministry. As the shelves holding the prophecies collapse, Harry and his friends flee to another room with a veiled archway in the center. The Death Eaters follow them and manage to capture Harry's friends, whom Malfoy threatens to kill if Harry does not hand over the prophecy. After a moment of hesitation he gives it to Malfoy. Before Lucius can escape with it, he is confronted by Sirius, who has arrived with members of the Order of the Phoenix, a society dedicated to battling Voldemort and his followers. Lucius drops the prophecy, causing it to smash on the floor. Harry's friends are freed, and the battle continues. Sirius pulls Harry aside and tells him to take his friends and leave, but he refuses and continues to fight. Immediately after, Sirius is hit by a killing curse cast by his cousin Bellatrix Lestrange, a Death Eater. He smiles at Harry before falling through the archway and disappearing.
Harry pursues Bellatrix to the Atrium of the Ministry and subdues her by the use of the torture curse. A voice appears in Harry's head, taunting him to kill Lestrange. Moments later, the voice is revealed to be that of Lord Voldemort, who Apparates behind Harry. Harry attempts to attack him, but Voldemort disarms him. Before Voldemort can kill Harry, Dumbledore appears. As Bellatrix escapes, they engage in a furious duel. Fearing that Dumbledore is too powerful to defeat in open combat, Voldemort attempts to possess Harry, as Dumbledore looks on. After an agonizing internal battle, Harry says that it is Voldemort, not he, who is weak and that he will never know love or friendship, and for that Harry feels sorry for him. Voldemort is ultimately forced from Harry's body and mind, prompting him to state that Harry "will lose everything" due to the profound amount of love that resides within him.
Fudge arrives in the Atrium with a squad of Aurors just seconds before Voldemort Disapparates . The Ministry is forced to acknowledge its error and vindicate Dumbledore and Harry. Dumbledore later discusses with Harry the contents of the prophecy Voldemort wanted so badly, which states that "neither can live while the other survives"; therefore, Harry must either kill Voldemort or be killed by Voldemort. The film ends as Harry tells Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Neville, and Luna, that they can love, something that Voldemort cannot and that they have "something worth fighting for".
Production
David Yates was chosen to direct the film after Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire director Mike Newell, as well as Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Matthew Vaughn and Mira Nair turned down offers. Yates believed he was approached because of one of his previous projects, the television drama Sex Traffic, and because the studio saw him fit to handle an "edgy and emotional" film with a "political backstory". Steve Kloves, the screenwriter of the first four Potter films, had other commitments, and Michael Goldenberg wrote the script for the film; however, Kloves will return for the next film, Half-Blood Prince.
Rehearsals for Order of the Phoenix began on 27 January 2006, filming began on 6 February, and finished in the end of November 2006. Filming was put on a two-month hiatus starting in May 2006 so that Radcliffe could sit his A/S Levels and Watson could sit her GCSE exams. The film's budget was reportedly between GB£75 and 100 million (US$150 and 200 million).
Nicholas Hooper was the composer for the soundtrack of the film, following John Williams, who scored the first three films, and Patrick Doyle, who did the fourth. In the new score, Hooper incorporated variations on "Hedwig's Theme", the series' theme originally written by Williams for the first film and heard in all subsequent ones. In March and April of 2007, Hooper and the London Chamber Orchestra recorded nearly two hours of music at Abbey Road Studios in London. The score, like the film and book, is darker than previous instalments in the series. To emphasise this, the two new main themes reflect the sinister new character Dolores Umbridge, and Lord Voldemort's invasion of Harry's mind. A Japanese Taiko drum was used for a deeper sound in the percussion. The soundtrack was released on 10 July 2007, the eve of the film's release.
Mark Day was the film editor, Sławomir Idziak was the cinematographer, and Jany Temime was the costume designer. Choreographer Paul Harris, who has previously worked with David Yates several times, created a physical language for wand combat to choreograph the wand fighting scenes.
Set design
Stuart Craig returned as set designer, having also designed the first four films' sets. There were a number of notable new sets in this film. The atrium in the Ministry of Magic is over 200 feet in length, making it the largest and most expensive set yet built for the Potter film series. Craig's design was inspired by early London Underground stations, where architects "tried to imitate classical architecture but they used ceramic tile", as well as a Burger King on Tottenham Court Road in London, where "there's a fantastic Victorian façade which just embodies the age". The set of Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place contains the Black family tapestry spread across three walls; when the producers told Rowling they wanted to visualise the details of each name and birthyear, she faxed them a complete copy of the entire tree. The set of the Hall of Prophecies was entirely digitally built. During a fight scene which occurs there, prophecies crash to the ground and break; had it been an actual physical set, the reset time would have been weeks.
The set used for Igor Karkaroff's trial scene in Goblet of Fire was doubled in size for Harry's trial in this film, while still protecting its symmetry. New professor Dolores Umbridge, though she teaches in a classroom that has appeared in films two through four, inhabits an office vastly different from those of her predecessors. The set was redressed with "fluffy, pink filigree" and a number of plates upon which moving kittens were animated in post-production. A 24-hour photo shoot was held to photograph and film the kittens for use on these plates. Even the elegant quill which Umbridge gives Harry to write lines using his own blood is designed by the set designers.
Visual effects
Tim Burke was the visual effects supervisor, John Richardson was the special effects supervisor, and Nick Dudman was the creatures special effects supervisor. The film required over 1,400 visual effects shots, and the London-based company Double Negative created more than 950 of them. Working for six months on previsualisation starting in September 2005, Double Negative was largely responsible for sequences in the Room of Requirement, the Forbidden Forest, the Hall of Prophecies, and the Death Chamber.
A new character in the film, Grawp, Hagrid's giant half-brother, came to life by a new technology called Soul Capturing, developed by Image Metrics. Instead of building the character from scratch, the movements and facial expressions of actor Tony Maudsley were used to model Grawp's actions.
Filming
Though the producers explored options to film outside of the UK, Leavesden Studios in Watford was again the location on which many of the interior scenes, including the Great Hall, Privet Drive and Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place were shot.
Locations in England included the River Thames, for the flight of the Order of the Phoenix to Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place, and the flight of Dumbledore's Army to the Ministry of Magic. This sequence also includes such landmarks as the London Eye, Canary Wharf, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the HMS Belfast. Filming at Platform 9¾ took place at King's Cross Station, as it has in the past. A telephone booth near Scotland Yard was used as Harry and Arthur Weasley enter the Ministry, while the crew closed the Westminster tube station on 22 October 2006 to allow for filming of Arthur Weasley accompanying Harry to his trial at the Ministry of Magic. Other scenes were filmed in and around Oxford, specifically at nearby Blenheim Palace in Woodstock.
Various locations around Scotland were used for exterior shots. Fort William was used to show 'snow-capped mountains and glens' vital for the opening sequence of the film. In Glenfinnan, the Hogwarts Express crosses a viaduct, as it has in the past films. Aerial scenes were shot in Glen Coe, in Clachaig Gully, and Glen Etive, which, at the time of filming, was one of the few places in Scotland without snow, making it ideal for a backdrop.
Several locations were used which do not appear in the final cut of the film. In Virginia Water, scenes were shot where Professor McGonagall recovers from Stunning Spells, and Burnham Beeches was used for filming the scene where Hagrid introduces his fifth-year Care of Magical Creatures class to Thestrals. Harry skips stones in front of Bonnie Prince Charlie's Monument in Glenfinnan in another cut scene.
Cast
Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, the protagonist. He has to battle with much of the Wizarding world's denial over Harry's encounter with the evil Lord Voldemort at the end of the previous year. He teaches his friends to defend themselves in duels.
Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley, one of Harry's best friends. He helps Harry found Dumbledore's Army and accompanies Harry to the Department of Mysteries in the climax of the film.
Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, one of Harry's best friends. She helps Harry found Dumbledore's Army and accompanies Harry to the Department of Mysteries in the climax of the film.
Ralph Fiennes as Lord Voldemort, the antagonist, who lures Harry to the Ministry of Magic and nearly kills him.
Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore, the Hogwarts headmaster. He upsets Harry by remaining distant from him throughout the year, but explains at the end of the film why he isolated himself. He also explains the meaning of the prophecy to Harry.
Gary Oldman as Sirius Black, Harry's godfather who, during the battle at the Department of Mysteries, is killed by his cousin Bellatrix Lestrange, causing Harry great emotional damage.
Imelda Staunton as Dolores Umbridge, the new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, a plant from the Ministry of Magic who prevents Harry and his friends from learning practical magic, and refuses to allow Harry to claim that Lord Voldemort has returned.
Alan Rickman as Severus Snape, the Potions master. He helps teach Harry to block his mind's connection to Lord Voldemort's. He holds a grudge against Harry because he and Harry's father hated each other while they were at school together.
Matthew Lewis as Neville Longbottom, a classmate of Harry's who accompanies him to the Department of Mysteries.
Evanna Lynch as Luna Lovegood, a classmate of Harry's who explains the Thestrals to him and accompanies him to the Department of Mysteries.
Bonnie Wright as Ginny Weasley, Ron's sister who accompanies Harry to the Department of Mysteries.
Katie Leung as Cho Chang, Harry's love interest.
Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid, the regular Care of Magical Creatures professor, and close friend of Harry, Ron and Hermione. He is absent for the first half of the year on a mission for the Order of the Phoenix.
Maggie Smith as Minerva McGonagall, the Transfiguration teacher and deputy headmistress.
Emma Thompson as Sybill Trelawney, the Divination teacher who Umbridge fires for not being able to correctly divine the future.
David Thewlis as Remus Lupin, a former Hogwarts teacher and mentor of Harry. He is a member of the Order of the Phoenix and participates in the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
Brendan Gleeson as Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, a retired Auror. He is a member of the Order of the Phoenix and participates in the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
George Harris as Kingsley Shacklebolt, an Auror and a member of the Order of the Phoenix who participates in the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
Natalia Tena as Nymphadora Tonks, an Auror and member of the Order of the Phoenix who participates in the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
Julie Walters as Molly Weasley, Ron's mother who acts as a maternal figure to Harry.
Mark Williams as Arthur Weasley, Ron's father who acts as a paternal figure to Harry. Harry saves him from death when he sees a vision of Arthur being attacked.
Robert Hardy as Cornelius Fudge, the Minister for Magic, who refuses to believe that Lord Voldemort has returned.
Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix Lestrange, one of Lord Voldemort's right-hand Death Eaters who leads the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy, one of Lord Voldemort's right-hand Death Eaters who leads the battle at the Department of Mysteries.
Tom Felton as Draco Malfoy, Harry's rival. He supports Umbridge and helps her capture Dumbledore's Army.
James and Oliver Phelps as Fred and George Weasley, respectively, Ron's twin brothers who leave Hogwarts on broomstick amidst fireworks in defiance of Umbridge.
Harry Melling as Dudley Dursley, Harry's cousin who bullies him and is attacked by Dementors.
Richard Griffiths as Vernon Dursley and Fiona Shaw as Petunia Dursley, Harry's uncle and aunt who dote on their son.
Timothy Bateson as the voice of Kreacher, the disgruntled house-elf of the Black family.
Casting
Casting began as early as May 2005, when Radcliffe announced he would reprise his role as Harry. Across the media frenzy that took place during the release of Goblet of Fire (2005), most of the main returning actors announced their return to the series, including Grint, Watson, Lewis, Wright, Leung, and Fiennes.
A number of characters new to the series appear in the film. Staunton announced she would be playing the major new role of Dolores Umbridge in October 2005, and the announcements of the casting of the rest of the new characters to the series was spanned across 2006. Lynch won the role of Luna Lovegood over 15,000 other girls who attended the open casting call, waiting in a line of hopefuls that stretched a mile long. On 1 April 2006, Helen McCrory, who had been signed on to play Bellatrix Lestrange, announced that she was three months' pregnant and had to withdraw from the film. On 25 May 2006 the BBC reported that Helena Bonham Carter would play the role instead.
The inclusion or cutting of some characters sparked speculation from fans as to the importance of the characters in the final book of the series. In April 2006, representatives of Jim McManus said he would be playing Aberforth Dumbledore, Albus' brother and the barman of the Hog's Head, in which Harry and his friends found the D.A. A week later WB announced that the role was "very minor", allaying some of the speculation to the significance of the role, which, before the final book, was not even a speaking part. MTV reported in October 2006 that Dobby, a house-elf who appeared in the second film, Chamber of Secrets (2002), and in the fifth book, would be cut, opening up "plot questions" as to how the role of the elf would be filled. MTV also reported about a month before the release of the final book that Kreacher, the Black family's house-elf, was cut from the film in one draft of the script. However, after Rowling prodded the filmmakers to include him, saying, "You know, I wouldn't [cut him] if I were you. Or you can, but if you get to make a seventh film, you’ll be tied in knots", he was added back into the script.
Other more minor roles, were cut with subsequent drafts of the script. At the U.S. premiere of Goblet of Fire, series producer David Heyman said that former Hogwarts professor Gilderoy Lockhart, played by Kenneth Branagh in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002), was in the first draft of the script for Phoenix. However, neither Branagh nor the character of Lockhart appears in the final version. Tiana Benjamin was scheduled to return for the film in the role of Angelina Johnson, the captain of the Gryffindor Quidditch team, but she had to withdraw due to a commitment to playing Chelsea Fox in EastEnders. The character, as well as the entire Quidditch subplot, was ultimately cut from the film. She did, however, record sound clips for the Order of the Phoenix video game.
The family of footballer Theo Walcott made a cameo role in the film. Theo himself was due to appear as well, though his commitments to Arsenal forced him to pull out.
Differences from the book
At 766 pages in the British edition and 870 in the American edition, Order of the Phoenix is the longest Harry Potter book in the series. Screenwriter Michael Goldenberg described his task to cut down the novel as searching for "the best equivalent way to tell the story. My job was to stay true to the spirit of the book, rather than to the letter". Goldenberg said that Rowling told him, the producers, and Yates that "she just wanted to see a great movie, and gave [them] permission to take whatever liberties [they] felt [they] needed to take to translate the book into a movie she would love". Cutting down the book to meet the time frame of the film, Goldenberg explained, became "clearer when [he] figured out that the organizing principle of the screenplay was to narrate Harry's emotional journey". He and Yates "looked for every opportunity to get everything [they] could in there. And where [they] couldn't, to sort of pay homage to it, to have it somewhere in the background or to feel like it could be taking place off-screen."
One cut Goldenberg had to make, which he "hated" to do, was the absence of Quidditch, the wizarding sport. "The truth is that any movie made of this book, whoever made it, that had included the Quidditch subplot would have been a lesser film," he said. In the book, Ron grows as a character by trying out for the Quidditch team. "Ron facing challenges and coming into his own in the same way that Harry is, we tried to get that into the film in other ways, as much as possible. So, you feel like, if not the details of that story, at least the spirit of it is present in the film." The change disappointed Grint who had been "quite looking forward to the Quidditch stuff."
In a significant scene in the book, Harry sees a memory of his own father humiliating Snape in their school days, and Snape insulting his mother after she stood up for him. In the film, it is abbreviated to an "idea", in Goldenberg's words. "It's an iconic moment when you realize your parents are normal, flawed human beings. … Things get trimmed out, but I kept the meat of that in there — and that was what really gave me the coming-of-age story." Young Lily Potter did not appear at all, but promotional screenshots show unknown teenager Susie Shinner in the role.
The scene at St Mungo's, the hospital where Harry runs into classmate Neville Longbottom and learns that his parents were tortured into insanity by Bellatrix Lestrange, was cut because it required the construction of a new set. The main purpose of the action of the scene was relocated to the Room of Requirement after one of the D.A. lessons. Also, in order to speed up the film's climax, several events in the Ministry leading up to Harry's battle with Voldemort were removed, including the brain room. Mrs. Weasley's encounter with a boggart at Grimmauld Place followed suit.
The character of Kreacher the house-elf, who was included in the script only at Rowling's request, has a larger part in the book than the film. In the novel, he is seen saving some of the Black family's artifacts which the Order of the Phoenix throw away, one of which is a locket which becomes extremely important in the seventh book. "It was kind of tricky to raise that in our story, because it's for so much later," Yates said. "We figured we can probably introduce it later, and that's the approach we took". Whilst Kreacher remained, all scenes involving Dobby were cut, and his important actions given to other characters.
Rita Skeeter, the journalist played by Miranda Richardson in Goblet of Fire, was also removed. In the book, Hermione blackmails her into writing articles that support Harry as the rest of the wizarding world denies his claims. Richardson noted that "it's never gonna be the book on film, exactly. … They'll take certain aspects from the book and make it something that they hope is going to be commercial and that people want to see."
Distribution
Marketing
The first trailer was released on November 17, 2006, attached to another WB film, Happy Feet. It was made available online on November 20, 2006, on the Happy Feet website. The international trailer debuted online on April 22, 2007 at 14:00 UTC. On May 4, 2007, the domestic trailer was shown before Spider-Man 3.
Two posters released on the Internet that showed Harry accompanied by six classmates, including Hermione Granger, generated some controversy by the media. They were essentially the same picture, though one advertised the IMAX release. In one poster, the profile of Hermione, played by Emma Watson, was made curvier as the outline of her breasts was enhanced. Melissa Anelli, webmistress of noted fan site The Leaky Cauldron, wrote:
Representatives for WB later wrote about the poster under fire, "This is not an official poster. Unfortunately this image was accidentally posted on the IMAX website".
The video game version, designed by EA UK, was released June 25, 2007. Lego produced just one set, a model of Hogwarts, the lowest amount of sets for a film so far. NECA produced a series of action figures, whilst a larger array of smaller figures was also produced by PopCo Entertainment, a Corgi International company.
Release
The film was the third Harry Potter film to be given a simultaneous release in conventional theatres and IMAX. The IMAX release featured the full movie in 2-D and the final 20 minutes of the film in 3-D. According to estimates in March 2007, by Warner Bros., the film would debut on over 10,000 theatre screens during the summer.
The film was released in most countries in a two-week period starting 11 July 2007. WB has tried to stick with day-and-date releases for most countries "except in the Middle East and a few minor markets, because most are going to be in holidays at that point". The set of summer releases, even though the films are typically released in the winter, "really maximizes our opportunity," said a representative for WB.
Previews of the film began in March 2007 in the Chicago area. Under tight security to prevent piracy, WB had security guards patrol the aisles, looking for cell phone cameras or small recording devices, at a preview in Japan. The world premiere took place in Tokyo, Japan on 28 June 2007. MySpace users could bring copies of their online profiles to gain free admission to sneak previews in eight different cities across the country on 28 June 2007. The UK premiere took place on 3 July 2007 in London's Odeon Leicester Square, during which author J. K. Rowling made a public appearance. The U.S. premiere took place on 8 July in Los Angeles. After the premiere, the three young stars of the film series, Radcliffe, Grint, and Watson, were honoured with a ceremony where their handprints, footprints, and "wandprints" were placed in the cement in front of Grauman's Chinese Theatre.
The film was released on the following dates in these major English-speaking countries:
Malaysia, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand, South Africa, Philippines, United States — 11 July
Puerto Rico, Singapore, United Kingdom — 12 July
Republic of Ireland, India — 13 July
Originally, Warner Bros. set the Australian release date as 6 September 2007, nearly two months after the majority of other release dates. However, after complaints from the Australian community, including a petition garnering 2,000 signatures, the date was pulled back to 11 July 2007. The release dates of the film in the UK and U.S. were also moved back, both from 13 July, to 12 July and 11 July, respectively.
Even though the book is the longest in the series, the film is 138 minutes long, the shortest in the entire film series. In the motion picture rating system, it was rated the equivalent of the U.S.'s PG-13, the UK's 12A, and Australia's M, although in Canada, the film was only rated PG, and G in Quebec. Reasons for the ratings were variations on "fantasy violence" and "dark themes".
DVD
A 2-disc special edition DVD, as well as a fullscreen and a widescreen edition of the film was released on 12 November 2007 in the U.K., and will be released on 11 December 2007 in the US, with the HD DVD and Blu-Ray disc releases of the film occurring on the same date in each respective country. The DVD was released in Australia on 14 November 2007.
Extras appearing on the DVDs include additional scenes, a feature trailing a day in the life of Natalia Tena, who played Nymphadora Tonks, an A&E documentary about the films and books, and a featurette on film editing in Phoenix. The DVD-ROM will feature a timeline and a sneak peek of the next film, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2008). The HD DVD and Blu-Ray contain additional features, such as the "in-movie experience", a video commentary in which members of Dumbledore's Army share their favourite moments from the production of the film, and "focus points" featurettes on how certain scenes of the film were made.
Reaction
Critical reception
Reviews of the film are generally positive. The film currently holds a 76% "certified fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes. While this is indeed a positive score, it is the least favourably reviewed of the five Harry Potter films on the site. The Telegraph headlined their review "Potter film is the best and darkest yet". The New York Daily News gave the film four out of four stars, calling it the best Potter film yet and wrote that "die-hard Potter addicts will rejoice that Yates has distilled J.K. Rowling's broad universe with care and reverence." The Sunday Mirror, giving the film four out of five stars, called it "a dark and delicious delight [and] a must-see movie". The Miami Herald gave the film three stars out of four and wrote that the film "is the first installment in the soon-to-be series-of-seven that doesn't seem like just another spinoff capitalising on the money-minting Harry Potter brand name. Instead, Phoenix feels like a real 'movie'."
Imelda Staunton's performance as Dolores Umbridge and Helena Bonham Carter's as Bellatrix Lestrange were widely acclaimed; Staunton was described as the "perfect choice for the part" and "one of the film's greatest pleasures", "com[ing] close to stealing the show". Bonham Carter was said to be a "shining but underused talent". Variety praised Alan Rickman's portrayal of Severus Snape, writing that he "may have outdone himself; seldom has an actor done more with less than he does here". Newcomer Evanna Lynch, playing Luna Lovegood, also received good word from a number of reviewers including the New York Times who declared her "spellbinding".
Rolling Stone also lauded the three principal actors' achievements, especially Radcliffe: "One of the joys of this film is watching Daniel Radcliffe grow so impressively into the role of Harry. He digs deep into the character and into Harry's nightmares. It's a sensational performance, touching all the bases from tender to fearful." Rolling Stone's review also classified the film as better than the previous four instalments in the series, by losing the "candy-ass aspect" of the first two and "raising the bar" from the "heat and resonance" of the third and fourth.
The Times (London) expressed disappointment that the three main actors were not able to fully advance the emotional sides of their respective characters, weakening the film. The San Francisco Chronicle complained about a "lousy" storyline, alleging that the first twenty minutes of the film, when Harry is put on trial for performing magic outside of school and threatened with expulsion, but is cleared of all charges, did not advance the plot. The Hollywood Reporter wrote that Phoenix is "quite possibly the least enjoyable of the [series] so far," and that despite "several eye-catching moments", "the magic – movie magic, that is – is mostly missing." The review also criticised the underuse of the "cream of British acting", noting the brief appearances of Maggie Smith, Helena Bonham Carter, Emma Thompson, David Thewlis, Richard Griffiths, and Julie Walters.
Box office performance
The film opened to a worldwide 5-day opening of $333 million, the third-biggest opening of all time, behind only Spider-Man 3 (2007) and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (2007). Both of those films opened in many more markets — Spider-Man 3 in 108 and At World's End in 103, respectively, compared to Potter's 45. In the United States, tickets for hundreds of midnight showings of the film, bought from online ticket-seller Fandango, were sold out, making up approximately 90% of the site's weekly ticket sales. In the U.S. and Canada, midnight screenings (very early morning on 11 July) brought in $12 million from 2,311 midnight exhibitions making the showings "the most successful batch of midnight exhibitions ever." In one-night earnings, Phoenix is behind only At World's End, which had debuted four hours earlier on its date.
In the U.S. and Canada, Phoenix earned an additional $32.2 million on Wednesday, post-midnight showings, making it the biggest Wednesday single-day gross in box office history, with a total of $44.2 million. That amount tops Sony Pictures' Spider-Man 2, which had held the record since 2004 with its $40.4 million take on a Wednesday. It is also the fifth-biggest opening day for a movie in history, surpassing At World's End's $42.9 million. It earned $1.9 million from a record-breaking 91 IMAX screens, the highest opening day ever for any IMAX day of the week, beating Spider-Man 3's $1.8 million. In the U.K. the result was similar. The film made £16.5 million during its opening 4-day run, breaking the U.K. box office record for the biggest 4-day opening weekend ever.
Phoenix's domestic gross is at $291.9 million in the U.S. and Canada, and at £49.2 million, or $101.4 million in the U.K. Overseas, it has grossed $646.4 million, the fifth highest-grosser ever overseas, for a worldwide total of $938.3 million. It became the second-highest grossing Potter film worldwide, and the second Potter film to break the $900 million mark. It is the sixth-highest grossing film of all time and currently, the highest grossing 2007 film of Australia and the UK. IMAX Corporation and Warner Bros. Pictures announced that the film has made over $35 million on IMAX screens, worldwide, with an impressive per-screen average of $243,000 making it the highest grossing live-action IMAX release in history.
Awards
Before it was released, Order of the Phoenix was nominated in a new category at the 2007 MTV Movie Awards, "Best Summer Movie You Haven't Seen Yet". However, that award was won by Transformers. On 26 August 2007, the film won the award for "Choice Summer Movie – Drama/Action Adventure" at the Teen Choice Awards.
The film was also nominated for several awards at the 2007 Scream Awards presented by Spike TV, in the categories of "The Ultimate Scream", "Best Fantasy Movie", and "Best Sequel". Daniel Radcliffe was nominated in the "Fantasy Hero" categories, respectively. The film won for Best Sequel and Ralph Fiennes won for "Most Vile Villain". The film picked up three awards at the inaugural ITV National Movie Awards, taking "Best Family Film", "Best Actor" for Radcliffe and "Best Actress" for Emma Watson. The film was one of ten nominees for a 2007 Hollywood Movie of the Year.
Nicholas Hooper received a nomination for a World Soundtrack Discovery Award for his score to the film.
7. Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999)
(Collections: $922,379,000)
Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace is a 1999 space opera film written and directed by George Lucas. It is the fourth film to be released in the Star Wars saga, and the first in terms of internal chronology. The film follows two Jedi Knights, played by Liam Neeson and Ewan McGregor, who flee the planet Naboo with the planet's queen in the hope of finding a peaceful end to a trade dispute. Along the way, the ship must stop for repairs on the planet Tatooine, where the Jedi encounter Anakin Skywalker, played by Jake Lloyd, a young slave boy who is unusually strong with the Force. When the group returns to Naboo, they realize that the situation is much worse than they thought—the evil Sith have returned.The release of the film on May 19, 1999 came almost sixteen years after the previous film in the series, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. Lucas began production when he felt special effects had advanced to the level of what he had envisioned for the film. Shooting took place during 1997 at various locations including Leavesden Studios and the Tunisian desert. The release was accompanied by extensive media coverage and great anticipation. Despite mixed reviews by critics, it grossed US$924.3 million worldwide, making it the highest grossing Star Wars film in the series (third when adjusted for inflation).
Story and Plot Point
The opening crawl reveals that the Trade Federation has blockaded the planet of Naboo in hope of resolving a galactic trade dispute. Chancellor Valorum of the Galactic Republic secretly sends two Jedi Knights—Qui-Gon Jinn and his padawan learner Obi-Wan Kenobi—to meet with the Trade Federation to settle the crisis. Unknown to them, the Trade Federation is in league with the mysterious Sith Lord Darth Sidious, who orders them to invade Naboo with their immense droid army and also to kill the two Jedi. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan escape and flee to the surface of Naboo, where they meet local Gungan outcast Jar Jar Binks. As Jar Jar brings them to an underwater Gungan settlement, the Trade Federation captures Naboo's leader, Queen Amidala. Through a Jedi mind trick, Qui-Gon secures a submarine, which he, Obi-Wan, and Jar Jar use to reach the capital of Naboo and rescue Queen Amidala and her escort. The group departs for Coruscant, the Galactic Republic's capital planet, to seek help from the Senate.
During the escape, the ship is attacked by the Federation blockade, forcing R2-D2, one of the ship's droids, to fix the shields. The attack damages the ship's hyperdrive, forcing the party to land on the desert planet of Tatooine for repairs. While searching for needed parts, Qui-Gon and a handmaiden named Padmé befriend young Anakin Skywalker, a nine-year-old human slave gifted in piloting and mechanics. Qui-Gon senses a strong presence of the Force in Anakin, and feels that he may be the "Chosen One" — an individual the Jedi believe will fulfill a prophecy by bringing balance to the Force. At Anakin's insistence, Qui-Gon enters Anakin into the Boonta Eve Podrace in a bid with Anakin's master, Watto, to gain the needed parts as well as Anakin's freedom. Anakin eludes several obstacles—including rival racer Sebulba—to win the race, gaining his freedom and bankrupting Watto. After hesitation, Anakin leaves his mother and his droid (C-3PO) behind on Tatooine to go with the Jedi. As the group prepares to depart, they are attacked by the Sith apprentice Darth Maul, who battles Qui-Gon until the heroes escape. On Coruscant, Qui-Gon informs the Jedi Council of the mysterious, well-trained attacker. The Council becomes concerned that this may indicate the reappearance of the Sith, an opposing order that followed the dark side of the Force. Qui-Gon informs the Council about Anakin, hoping that he can be trained as a Jedi. After testing the boy the Council refuses, worried that he is too old for training and that the fear and anger that he harbors will cloud his future. Meanwhile, Senator Palpatine of Naboo persuades Amidala to call a vote of no confidence in Chancellor Valorum. The vote removes Valorum from power and leads to Palpatine's nomination for the position, which Amidala considers too late to be effective. To stop the Federation invasion by herself, the Queen decides to return to Naboo with her security team, the two Jedi, R2-D2, Anakin, and Jar Jar.
On Naboo, Padmé reveals herself as Queen Amidala and forms an alliance with the Gungans for the battle against the Trade Federation. The Gungans march into battle to divert the Federation army away from the capital, allowing the others to infiltrate the palace. Once inside the palace hangar, the Jedi free several Naboo pilots, who regain their starfighters and assault the Federation droid ship. As they make their way to the throne room, the infiltration team is confronted by Darth Maul. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan engage Maul while the others take an alternative route. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan duel with the Sith Lord amongst the catwalks of a massive power-generating reactor core. Obi-Wan is briefly delayed, separating him from Qui-Gon and Maul. Meanwhile, Queen Amidala and her forces fight their way into the palace and capture Nute Gunray, Viceroy of the Trade Federation. Anakin—inadvertently joining the dogfight in space—destroys the droid-control ship's reactor with proton torpedoes, which deactivates the droid army in the midst of taking Gungan prisoners. In the reactor core, Qui-Gon re-engages Darth Maul singlehandedly, but is mortally wounded. Obi-Wan catches up with and defeats Maul in another intense lightsaber battle. With his final breath, Qui-Gon instructs Obi-Wan to train Anakin to become a Jedi.
In the aftermath, the newly elected Chancellor Palpatine congratulates Queen Amidala on her victory and promises to watch Anakin's career with great interest. Meanwhile, the Jedi Council promotes Obi-Wan to the level of Jedi Knight, and Yoda reluctantly accepts Obi-Wan's request to train Anakin as his padawan. During Qui-Gon's funeral, Mace Windu and Yoda agree that Maul was indeed a Sith. However, because there are always two Sith at any given time (a master and an apprentice), they believe that another Sith still exists, although who that Sith is remains uncertain. A large celebration is held on Naboo to celebrate the world's liberation and the newborn alliance between the Naboo and the Gungans.
Production
George Lucas began writing the new Star Wars trilogy on November 1, 1994.The screenplay for The Phantom Menace was adapted from Lucas' 15-page outline that was written in 1976. The early outline was originally designed to help Lucas track the character backstories and what events had taken place before the original trilogy. While the working title for the film was The Beginning, Lucas later revealed the true title to be The Phantom Menace; a title which, in contrast to the more self-explanatory titles of the other films, is ambiguous.
The lightsaber battles are influenced by kendo and kenjutsu
Within three to four months of Lucas beginning the writing process, Doug Chiang and his design team started a two-year process of reviewing thousands of designs for the film. Stunt coordinator Nick Gillard was recruited to create a new Jedi fighting style for the new trilogy. Gillard referred to the lightsaber battles as akin to a chess game "with every move being a check." Because of their short-range weapons, Gillard theorized that the Jedi would have had to develop a fighting style that merged every swordfighting style, such as kendo and other kenjutsu styles, with other swinging techniques, such as tennis swings and tree-chopping. While training Liam Neeson and Ewan McGregor, Gillard would write a sequence to be an estimated 60 seconds in length, meant to be among five to six sequences per fight. Lucas later referred to Jedi as being "negotiators", rather than high-casualty soldiers. The preference of hand-to-hand combat was implemented to give a more spiritual and intellectual role to the Jedi.
Filming began on June 26, 1997 and ended on September 30 of that year, primarily taking place at Leavesden Studios in England, with additional location shooting in the Tunisian desert for the Tatooine scenes and the Italian Caserta Palace for the Theed City Naboo Palace interior. The city of Mos Espa was built in the desert outside Tozeur. On the night following the third day of shooting in Tozeur, an unexpected sandstorm destroyed many sets and props. With a quick rescheduling to allow for repairs, production was able to leave Tunisia on the exact day originally planned.
Nine R2-D2 models were created; seven could run in the sand or on the stage, one was for Kenny Baker to be dropped into, and one was a "pneumatic" R2 that was able to shift from two to three legs. During filming in Tunisia and on sets to replicate the environment, the standard model was prone to skidding off in strange directions and having its motors lock up from the sand. Having confronted similar problems before, Lucas allowed two companies, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) and the production's British special effects department, to create their own versions of the perfect R2-D2. The finished product needed to navigate deep sand, light sand and door jambs. ILM's R2-D2 featured two wheelchair motors capable of pushing 440 pounds (198 kilograms) of weight. The British effects company produced a new foot and motor drive system, allowing R2 to drive over sand. The ILM version was primarily used on stage sets, whereas the British version was used in Tunisia.
Up until the production of The Phantom Menace, many special effects in the film industry were achieved by the use of miniature models, matte paintings, and on-set visual effects, although other films had made extensive use of computer-generated imagery (CGI). Visual effects supervisor John Knoll previewed 3,500 storyboards for the film, with Lucas accompanying him to explain what factors of the shots would be practical and what would be created through visual effects. Knoll later recounted that on hearing the explanations of the storyboards, he was unaware of any way to accomplish what he had seen. The result was to mix original techniques with the newest digital techniques to make it difficult for the viewer to guess which technique was being used. New computer software was written by Knoll and his visual effects team to create certain shots in the film. Another goal was to create computer-generated characters that could act seamlessly with live-action actors. While filming scenes with CGI characters, Lucas would block the characters using their corresponding voice actor on-set. The voice actors were then removed and the live-action actors would perform the same scene alone. A CGI character would later be added into the shot, completing the conversation.
Cast
Liam Neeson as Qui-Gon Jinn: a Jedi Master and mentor to Obi-Wan. When he discovers Anakin, he insists that the boy be trained as a Jedi, despite the protests of the council.
Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi: Qui-Gon's young Jedi apprentice. He holds Qui-Gon in high regard, but questions his motives at times.
Natalie Portman as Padmé/Queen Amidala: the young queen of Naboo, Amidala hopes to protect her planet from a blockade brought on by the Trade Federation.
Jake Lloyd as Anakin Skywalker: a nine-year-old slave boy from Tatooine. He is discovered to have a higher midi-cholorian count than any Jedi, and is therefore exceptionally gifted in the Force.
Ian McDiarmid as Senator Palpatine: the Senator of Naboo, who grows concerned about Naboo's blockade and defends his position in the Senate.
Ahmed Best as Jar Jar Binks: a clumsy Gungan, exiled from his home but taken in by Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan. He accompanies them throughout the film.
Pernilla August as Shmi Skywalker: Anakin's mother. She is concerned for her son's future, and must let her son leave with the Jedi.
Anthony Daniels as C-3PO: a protocol droid built by Anakin, he lacks a metal covering in this film, which R2-D2 refers to as being "naked".
Kenny Baker as R2-D2: an astromech droid, notable for saving Queen Amidala's ship when all other droids fail.
Ray Park as Darth Maul: a Zabrak Sith apprentice to Darth Sidious who uses a double-bladed lightsaber. He was voiced by Peter Serafinowicz.
Silas Carson as Nute Gunray: the Viceroy of the Trade Federation who leads the invasion of Naboo and tries to force Queen Amidala to sign a treaty to legitimise the occupation.
Andy Secombe as Watto: a junk dealer on Tatooine who owns Anakin and his mother as slaves.
Frank Oz as the voice of Yoda: the leader of the Jedi Council, who is apprehensive about allowing Anakin to be trained.
Samuel L. Jackson as Mace Windu: a member of the Jedi Council who also opposes the idea of training Anakin.
Terence Stamp as Finis Valorum: the current Chancellor who commissions Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon to negotiate with the Trade Federation Viceroy.
More than 3,000 young actors auditioned for the role of Anakin Skywalker through North America and the British Isles. They included child actors Michael Angarano, Justin Berfield and Haley Joel Osment. The field narrowed to three actors, all of whom were interviewed by Lucas and then screen tested with Natalie Portman.
Releases
The Phantom Menace received enormous media-created hype, which made Lucasfilm's $20 million advertising campaign-—with the distinctive artwork of Star Wars series artist Drew Struzan gracing the movie poster and other advertising—seem modest and almost unnecessary because of the unprecedented interest amongst both fans and the wider audience in the return of the franchise. Few film studios released films during the same week as the release of The Phantom Menace; among the more courageous were DreamWorks and Universal Studios, with the releases of The Love Letter and Notting Hill respectively. The Love Letter resulted in a box-office flop, whereas Notting Hill fared rather well and followed The Phantom Menace closely in second place. Challenger, Gray & Christmas of Chicago, a work-issues consulting firm, estimated that 2.2 million full-time employees did not appear for work to attend the film, resulting in $293 million in lost productivity. According to The Wall Street Journal, so many workers announced plans to view premiere screenings that many companies shut down on the opening day. Queue areas formed outside cinema theaters over a month in advance of ticket sales.
More theater lines appeared when it was announced that the film cinemas were not allowed to sell tickets in advance until two weeks into the release. This was done out of fear that family theater-goers would either be unable to receive tickets or would be forced to pay higher prices. Tickets were instead to be sold on a traditional first-come-first-serve basis. However, after meetings with the National Association of Theatre Owners, Lucasfilm agreed to allow advance ticket sales on May 12, 1999, provided that there be a 12-ticket limit per customer. As a result, however, some advance tickets were sold by "scalpers" as high as $100 apiece, which a distribution chief called "horrible", stating it was exactly what they wanted to avoid. Daily Variety reported that theater owners received strict instructions from Lucasfilm that the film could only play in the cinema's largest auditorium for the first 8–12 weeks; no honor passes were allowed for the first eight weeks, and they were obligated to send their payments to distributor 20th Century Fox within seven days. Servers at the film's official website became gridlocked soon after the release of the first teaser trailer, and many fans of the series paid full admission to see Meet Joe Black only to leave after the trailer had run. The same tradition followed months later when the theatrical trailer was featured in front of Wing Commander. The theatrical trailer caused even more notable media hype, because it not only premiered in theaters, but screened at the ShoWest Convention in Las Vegas, and was aired on television on Entertainment Tonight and Access Hollywood. An unusual marketing scheme was pursued across the United Kingdom, where the teaser trailer was released on December 2, 1998 and then pulled from theaters six weeks later.
Despite worries about whether the film would be finished in time, two weeks before its theatrical release Lucasfilm pushed the release date up from May 21, 1999 to May 19, 1999. At the ShoWest Convention, Lucas stated that the change was to give the fans a "head start" by allowing them to view it over the week and allowing families the chance to view on the weekends. In a nod toward his future with digital technology, Lucas stated that the film would be released on four digital projectors on June 18, 1999. Eleven charity premieres were staged across the United States on May 16, 1999; receipts from the Los Angeles event were given to the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation with corporate packages available for $5,000–$25,000. Other charity premieres included the Dallas premiere for Children's Medical Center, the Aubrey Fund for Pediatric Cancer Research at the Sloan-Kettering Hospital in New York, the Big Brother/Sister Assa. of the Philadelphia premiere, and the Children's National Medical Center in Washington D.C. A statement said that tickets were sold at $500 apiece and that certain sections were set aside for disadvantaged children.
DVD release
Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace was released on DVD in 2001; it was the first Star Wars film to be officially released on DVD. The DVD version of the film had certain scenes and other elements edited and inserted by George Lucas, making it slightly different from its theatrical release while retaining an identical plot. Some scenes were modified, and some that were unfinished by the date of release were added to the film. The DVD features a commentary track by Lucas, producer Rick McCallum, editor Ben Burtt, animation director Rob Coleman, and visual effects supervisors John Knoll, Dennis Muren, and Scott Squires. It includes seven deleted scenes completed specifically for the DVD, and The Beginning: Making Episode I, an hour-long documentary film drawn from more than 600 hours of footage, including an insider's look at Lucasfilm and ILM during the production.
Reaction
The Phantom Menace received mixed reviews (scoring 63% favorable rating among film critics with an average rating of 6/10). Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times gave it three and a half stars (out of four), praising its visual effects and calling it "exhilarating." Some aspects of the scripting were criticized. Much criticism was directed at the character of Jar Jar Binks, who was regarded by many members of the older fan community as a purely merchandising opportunity rather than a serious character in the film. In defense of the character, George Lucas stated that the Star Wars films are for children and that the original trilogy also drew similar criticism from fans over the characters R2-D2, C-3PO, and Yoda. He also criticized the American media for using fan opinions from the internet as a reliable source for their news stories. On the other hand, many fans and critics agree that the lightsaber duel between Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Maul — showcasing astounding choreography and Ray Park's martial arts skills — is a high point, and one of the best lightsaber duels in the entire Star Wars saga. In 2002, with the release of Attack of the Clones, actor Ewan McGregor admitted the film was "kind of flat".
The introduction of midi-chlorians (microscopic organisms that allow communication with the Force) in the film has been controversial. Those against it have seen it as a concept that negates the spiritual quality of the Force. Film historian Daniel Dinello notes, "Anathema to Star Wars fanatics who thought they reduced the Force to a kind of viral infection, midi-chlorians provide a biological interface, the link between physical bodies and spiritual energy." Religion expert John D. Caputo adds, "In the 'Gospel according to Lucas' a world is conjured up in which the intractable oppositions that have tormented religious thinkers for centuries are reconciled. ... The gifts that the Jedi masters enjoy have a perfectly plausible scientific basis, even if its ways are mysterious: their bodily cells have a heavier than usual concentration of 'midi-chlorians.'"
After the release of the film, there was controversy over whether several alien characters reflected racial stereotypes, notably: the oafish, slow-witted Jar Jar Binks had long droopy ears reminiscent of dreadlocks and spoke with what many perceived as a Caribbean patois (particularly Jamaican Creole); the greedy and corrupt Neimoidians of the Trade Federation spoke with Asian accents; and the unprincipled desert trader Watto is interpreted by some as a Fagin-esque Jewish stereotype. Lucas has categorically denied all of these implications.
Box office performance
The Phantom Menace was 1999's most successful movie, earning more than $431 million in North America and $493 million elsewhere. The worldwide total was some $924 million, making it the second-highest grossing film of all time (behind 1997's Titanic) after its first release. The Phantom Menace ranks 5th on the all-time domestic and 8th on the all-time worldwide box-office lists and 19th on the all-time domestic list when adjusted for inflation.
The Phantom Menace also accumulated a number of box office records. It broke the record for the largest single-day gross for a single movie by earning more than $28 million opening-day. It was not until the 2001 film Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone was released that these numbers were greatly exceeded. The Phantom Menace, in a record five days, passed the $100 million mark, breaking the record set by The Lost World: Jurassic Park by 24 hours (the record has since been reduced to just two days, by Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest). However The Phantom Menace surprisingly failed to take the record for biggest opening weekend, grossing $64.8 million, compared to The Lost World's $72.1 million. Sales reached the $200 million mark in just 13 days, easily beating the previous record held by Independence Day by seven-and-a-half days. The film took only 28 days to earn $300 million, beating Titanic's record by a 16-day margin. However, the film did not generate enough repeat viewers to dethrone Titanic.
Awards
Between them, the prequels did not receive any Academy Awards. Episode I was nominated for three Academy Awards: Ben Burtt and Tom Bellfort received the nomination for Best Sound Effects; John Knoll, Dennis Muren, Scott Squires, and Rob Coleman received the nomination for Best Visual Effects; Gary Rydstrom, Tom Johnson, Shawn Murphy, and John Midgley received the nomination for Best Sound. However, The Matrix captivated Academy voters, and became the first film to beat a Star Wars film for the visual effects Academy Award; also, Phantom Menace became the first film in the series to not receive nominations for Art Direction or Original Score. In contrast, the film received several Golden Raspberry, or Razzie, nominations. These included Worst Picture, Worst Director, Worst Screenplay, Worst Supporting Actor (Jake Lloyd as Anakin), Worst Supporting Actress (Sofia Coppola as Saché), Worst Screen Couple (Jake Lloyd and Natalie Portman), and won the Worst Supporting Actor category with Jar Jar Binks actor Ahmed Best.
Historical and cultural allusions
Like previous Star Wars films, The Phantom Menace makes several references to both historical events and films that George Lucas viewed in his youth. The Star Wars movies typically mix several selected concepts from different mythologies and religions together.
The horns and tattoos of Darth Maul drew upon depictions of the Devil.
Although Jedi Knights practice Zen and martial arts, they are also inspired by Samurai warriors. The name "Qui-Gon" paraphrases the term Qigong, which refers to a Chinese discipline involving meditation and martial arts. The words qi and chi are different romanizations of the same Chinese term, referring to the energy thought to flow through all living things from the Tao; the Tao is also a description for the Force. These elements derive primarily from Eastern, Southern, and Native American religions and myths.
There are many Christian and biblical references in the film, such as the appearance of Darth Maul. Maul's design draws heavily from traditional depictions of the Christian Devil, complete with red skin and horns. The Star Wars film cycle features a similar religious narrative involving Anakin Skywalker, a messiah conceived of a virgin birth, who is tempted to join the Sith — his sworn enemy — in order to save the life of Padmé Amidala, his secret wife. This action seemingly prevents him from fulfilling his duty as the "Chosen One" — the individual prophesied to destroy the Sith. The inspiration behind the story of the "virgin birth" parallels a concept developed by Joseph Campbell and his work on The Hero with a Thousand Faces, the same work that heavily influenced Lucas in his writing of the original Star Wars trilogy.
Japanese film such as Akira Kurosawa's The Hidden Fortress was a source of inspiration for Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, and scholars point out that The Phantom Menace was likewise influenced by Japanese culture. Film historians Geoff King and Tanya Krzywinska assert, "The costume and make-up designs ... favour a mixture of the gothic and the oriental over anything very futuristic. The gothic is most strongly apparent in Darth Maul's demonic horns and the red and black make-up mask that borrows from the facial designs found in depictions of Japanese demons." King and Krzywinska note that "Qui-Gon's pony tail and Obi-Wan's position of apprentice further encourage a reading in terms of the Samurai tradition." Finally, "Amidala, in keeping with her status and character, has a number of highly formal outfits ... to go with hair sculpted into a curve that frames make-up of a Japanese cast."
References to the original trilogy
The films of the prequel trilogy feature events, dialogue and brief references that echo the original trilogy. Lucas has referred to the Star Wars saga as a poem that rhymes. The most well-known of these references is the phrase "I have a bad feeling about this"; the phrase is stated by at least one character in each movie. It is one of the first lines in the film and is chronologically the first line spoken by Obi-Wan Kenobi in the films.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack for the film was released by Sony Classical on May 4, 1999. As with previous Star Wars installments, the score was composed and conducted by John Williams. He began recording the score with the London Voices and London Symphony Orchestra at Abbey Road Studios on February 10, 1999. A two-disk "Ultimate Edition" was released on November 14, 2000. The set features almost the entire score as it is heard in the film. While the original soundtrack released featured only 17 tracks, the Ultimate Edition featured 68 tracks. The original soundtrack condensed the number of tracks by allowing multiple songs to play per most tracks.
The popular track "Duel of the Fates" is one of the few choral pieces in Star Wars music. The chorus was introduced to give a religious, temple-like feel to the epic lightsaber duel. The theme was later put to a music video that is available on the DVD. The film score received a 2000 Grammy Award nomination.
Novelization
A novelization of the film was written by Terry Brooks. Brooks met with Lucas before writing the book and received his approval and guidance, including information about impending developments in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones and Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. This is evident in the passage on Tusken Raiders (which foreshadows the death of Anakin's mother in Attack of the Clones), and in the events leading up to Anakin's fight with the Rodian child Greedo; these events indicate that Anakin's anger derives from his anguish at Padmé's impending departure (foreshadowing the plot of Revenge of the Sith).
The novel includes three chapters of material created by Brooks solely for the novel. The first two chapters of the book concern Anakin's next-to-last Podrace and its aftermath; a later chapter describes an encounter between Anakin and a wounded Tusken Raider in the desert. The novelization features one of the first descriptions of the history of the Sith; it is the first Star Wars novel to mention the ancient Sith Lord Darth Bane, who would later become an important character in the franchise's "Expanded Universe" of novels and comic books. According to Terry Brooks' memoir, Sometimes the Magic Works, Lucas spent an hour on the telephone with him discussing the history of the Jedi and the Sith. Therefore, the information on this subject provided in Brooks' novelization can be presumed to derive from Lucas. Brooks devotes an entire chapter of Sometimes the Magic Works to the writing of The Phantom Menace's novelization.
8. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
(Collections: $921,600,000)
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers is a fantasy epic film, directed by Peter Jackson and based on the second volume of J. R. R. Tolkien's book The Lord of the Rings. It was released on December 18, 2002, with a running time of 179 minutes.Continuing the plot of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, it intercuts three storylines, as Frodo and Sam continue their quest to destroy the One Ring in Mordor and meet Gollum, its former owner. Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli come across the war torn nation of Rohan as well as the resurrected Gandalf, before fighting at the Battle of Helm's Deep, whilst Merry and Pippin escape capture and meet Treebeard, the tree-like giant.
The movie was critically acclaimed, although the adaptation was more controversial than the first film. It was an enormous box-office success, earning over $900 million worldwide, outgrossing its predecessor, and is currently the 7th-highest-grossing film of all time. The Special Extended DVD Edition was released on November 19, 2003.
Story and Plot Point
The film begins with a flashback to the first film, as Gandalf slips off the Bridge of Khazad-dûm and fights the Balrog as they hurtle down. Frodo awakes from his dream and continues his journey in Emyn Muil with his trusted and loyal friend, Sam, where they are attacked by Gollum, who wants to retrieve back the "his precious" from the ones who stole it from him, but the Hobbits manage to tie him up with Elven rope. Sam wants to abandon Gollum, but Frodo has pity on him. Needing a guide, Frodo makes Gollum agree to lead them to the Black Gate of Mordor.
In Rohan, the Uruk-hai run with Merry and Pippin captive. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli are in pursuit, following three days of running. They realize they are in Rohan, and Legolas surmises the Hobbits are being taken to Isengard. There, Saruman launches his attack on the country, and at the capital city of Edoras, King Théoden is mentally and physically weak because of the enchantments of his steward, Gríma Wormtongue, who was bought into the service of Saruman. Orcs freely roam the land and kill people including the king's only son Théodred. Théoden's nephew Éomer angrily realizes that Gríma has become Saruman's servant and furiously asks what the "promised price" was. When Gríma glances at Éowyn, Éomer angrily attacks him, but is banished for simply undermining his authority.
Frodo and Sam traverse the Dead Marshes, hiding from a newly seated Ringwraith on his Fell beast. They reach the Black Gate, only to have Gollum tell them there is a less risky path south. Merry and Pippin escape their captors due to Éomer's men who kill all the Uruk-hai, who in turn tells Aragorn of the slaughter, and the Three Hunters find their tracks leads into Fangorn forest. There Merry and Pippin meet an old Ent, Treebeard and a White Wizard. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli discover this White Wizard is Gandalf reborn, having sacrificed himself against the Balrog. They travel to Edoras on horseback, where they exorcise Saruman's hold on Théoden and banish Wormtongue. Théoden is confronted with his dead son and open war, and decides to flee to Helm's Deep a large fortification which in times of trouble have saved the people of Rohan. Gandalf rides to find Éomer and his Rohirrim, and Éowyn seeks to know Aragorn better.
In Ithilien, Gollum banishes his split personality, and attempts to befriend Frodo and Sam. They also see a battle and are taken captive by soldiers of Gondor. On the journey to Helms Deep, Aragorn soon has to save the refugees from Saruman's Wargs. During the Melee He is dragged by a one of the wolfs and falls off a cliff, the survivors arrive in Helm's Deep grief-stricken. In Rivendell, Arwen is convinced by Elrond that the age of Elves is ending, and she leaves for the West. Elrond ponders whether the Elves should still help Men. Frodo and Sam arrive at Henneth Annûn and meet Faramir, the younger brother of Boromir, who captures Gollum shortly after to learn of the One Ring. Faramir decides the Ring shall go to Gondor, so that he can "prove his quality" to his father. In Rohan, Aragorn awakens, and as he rides back to Helm's Deep, he sees Saruman's army: at least 10,000 strong. When he arrives, there is dismay, and 300 men, some too old or young, prepare for battle. In the midst of despair, a battalion of Elves from Lórien arrive to help them. At Fangorn forest, Merry, Pippin, Treebeard and other Ents hold a Council to decide on what the Ents involvement will be in the upcoming war with Sauron.
The battle of Helms Deep begins, and the Elves manage to hold the Uruk-hai at the wall, but it is blown up and many are killed during the ensuing attack through the breach. The Uruk-hai also manage to break the Gate despite Aragorn and Gimli's best efforts, and they fall back to the Keep. In Fangorn, Treebeard and the other Ents decide not to fight, but once Pippin takes him to the forest Saruman has decimated near Isengard, he is filled with rage. At Osgiliath, Faramir and the Hobbits are confronted by a Ringwraith. As the gate to the Keep is attacked, Gandalf, Éomer, and hundreds of Rohirrim arrive to push back the Uruk-hai, the Ents attack and flood Isengard and Sam and Faramir save Frodo from the Ringwraith's clutches. Sam narrates about how the story must go on, and Faramir frees them. Gandalf and company now know a full war is coming, and hope only rests with Frodo, who has resumed his journey towards Mordor with Sam and Gollum. After his mistreatment by Faramir's men, Gollum's darker nature returns and he considers betraying Frodo and Sam to "her."
Cast
Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins: Frodo is the Hobbit who must destroy the One Ring. The burden of carrying it is becoming heavier.
Sean Astin as Samwise "Sam" Gamgee: Sam is Frodo's best friend and travelling companion.
Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn: Aragorn is the heir-in-exile to the throne of Gondor, and has come to the defence of Rohan.
Ian McKellen as Gandalf the White: The Wizard who fell fighting the Balrog has now returned, more powerful than ever, to finish his task.
Dominic Monaghan as Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck: Merry is a Hobbit who had been captured by the Uruk-hai, now an ally of Treebeard.
Billy Boyd as Peregrin "Pippin" Took: Pippin is Merry's best friend and travelling companion.
Orlando Bloom as Legolas: Legolas is an Elven archer and Prince of the Wood-elves, who joined the Fellowship after the Council of Elrond.
John Rhys-Davies as Gimli: Gimli son of Glóin is a warrior Dwarf who joined the Fellowship after the Council of Elrond.
and the voice of Treebeard: Leader of the Ents, tree-like giants. He is unaware of Saruman's destruction of the forests.
Andy Serkis provides the voice and performed motion capture for Gollum: Once a Hobbit-like creature named Sméagol, he possessed the Ring centuries ago, but now is leading Frodo on his quest. Secretly he wants the Ring back. He has an internal struggle between the "Sméagol" and "Gollum" aspects of his personality.
Bernard Hill as Théoden: Théoden is King of Rohan, and is healed by Gandalf to lead his country once more.
Miranda Otto as Éowyn: Éowyn is Théoden's niece. In love with Aragorn, she is an adept fighter.
Karl Urban as Éomer: Éomer is Éowyn's older brother. He was Chief Marshal of Rohan, exiled by Gríma Wormtongue, now gathering troops to defend Rohan.
David Wenham as Faramir: Faramir is the leader of the Ithilien Rangers tracking Sauron's troop movements. He captures Frodo, Sam and Gollum.
Christopher Lee as Saruman: The corrupt Wizard waging war upon Rohan and devastating Fangorn Forest. He has allied himself with Sauron.
Brad Dourif as Gríma Wormtongue: Gríma Wormtongue is Saruman's agent at Edoras. He renders Théoden incapable of decisions, and desires Éowyn.
Liv Tyler as Arwen: Arwen is the Half-elf whom Aragorn loves.
Hugo Weaving as Elrond: Elrond is Arwen's father. He expresses doubt over her love for Aragorn.
Cate Blanchett as Galadriel: Galadriel is the Elven Lady of Lothlórien. Elrond communicates with her telepathically about the future of Middle-earth.
John Leigh as Háma: Loyal doorwarden of the Golden Hall and a majordomo of Théoden.
Bruce Hopkins as Gamling: Member of the Royal Guard and the right-hand man of Théoden.
Craig Parker as Haldir of Lórien: Haldir of Lórien leads the Elves sent by Elrond and Galadriel to defend Helm's Deep.
John Bach as Madril: Madril is Faramir's 'right hand' man, who informs him of battle preparations.
The following only appear in the Extended Edition:
Sean Bean as Boromir: Faramir's brother, he died in The Fellowship of the Ring. He appears in Faramir's flashback.
John Noble as Denethor: Denethor is Steward of Gondor and father to Boromir and Faramir.
In the Battle of Helm's Deep, Peter Jackson has a cameo appearance as one of the men on top of the Gate, throwing a spear at the attacking Uruk-hai. His children also cameo as young refugees in the caves behind the Hornburg, and Alan Lee and Dan Hennah also cameo as soldiers preparing for the battle. Daniel Falconer has a cameo as an Elvish archer at the battle.
Comparison from the source material
The Two Towers did not begin as a film: instead parts of it were the conclusion to The Fellowship of the Ring, the first of two planned films under Miramax. However, as the two films became a trilogy under New Line, Jackson, Walsh and Boyens shuffled their scripts. The Two Towers is known as the most difficult of the Rings films to make, due to having neither a clear beginning nor end to focus the script on. Nonetheless, they had a clear decision with making the Battle of Helm's Deep the climax, a decision affecting the whole story's moods and style.
The most notable difference between the book and the film is the structure. Tolkien's The Two Towers is split into two, one following the war in Rohan, the other on Frodo. The film omits the opening of the book, the death of Boromir, which was used for a linear climax at the end of The Fellowship of the Ring. Also, the film climaxes with the Battle of Helm's Deep, whilst the tail ends of the Fellowship going to Isengard and Frodo's confrontation with Shelob were left for The Return of the King. This was done partly to fit more closely the timeline indicated by the book.
One notable change in plotting is that Théoden is literally possessed by Saruman, but in the book he is simply depressed and deluded by Wormtongue. Afterwards, Théoden is still unsure of what to do, and flees to Helm's Deep. In the book he rides out to war, and only ends up besieged when he considers helping Erkenbrand. Erkenbrand does not exist in the films: his character is combined with Éomer as the Rohirrim general who arrives with Gandalf at the film's end. Éomer himself is present during the entire battle in the book.
On the way to Helm's Deep, the refugees from Edoras are attacked by Wargs. The scene is possibly inspired by one in the book cut from The Fellowship of the Ring where it is the Fellowship who battle them. Here, a new subplot is created where Aragorn falls over a cliff, and is assumed to be dead. Jackson added it to create tension. This scene also chimes with a new subplot regarding Arwen, where she decides to leave Middle-earth after losing hope in the long-term possibilities of her love. Arwen's role is primarily in the book's Appendices, and she is never depicted as considering such an act.
A larger change was originally planned. Arwen and Elrond would visit Galadriel, and Arwen would accompany an army of Elves to Helm's Deep, to fight alongside Aragorn. During shooting, the script would change, due to writers coming up with better ideas to show the romance as well as poor fan reaction. The new scene of Arwen leaving for the West was created, and the conversation scene remains, edited to a telepathic one. Nonetheless, one major change remained that couldn't be reverted: the Elven warriors fighting at Helm's Deep. However, Jackson looks upon the change as highly romantic and stirring that the Elves return to fight for the future of Middle-earth.
Another change is the fact Treebeard does not immediately decide to go to war. It adds to the tension and Boyens describes it as making Merry and Pippin more than luggage. Here the Hobbits make Treebeard see the full destruction, prompting anger. Another structural change is that the Hobbits meet Gandalf the White early on, possibly explaining why the Hobbits don't react to his return when they meet him following the destruction of Isengard. This was explained in the book by Gandalf arriving at Isengard in the middle of the night to talk to Treebeard.
The filmmakers' decision to leave Shelob for the third film meant that Faramir had to become an obstacle for Frodo and Sam. In the book, Faramir (like Aragorn) quickly recognizes the Ring as a danger and a temptation, and does not long hesitate before letting Frodo and Sam go. In the film, Faramir first decides that the Ring shall go to Gondor and his father, as a way to prove Faramir's worth compared to Faramir's elder brother, Boromir. In the film, Faramir takes Frodo, Sam and the Ring to the Battle of Osgiliath, to which they do not go in the book. Jackson winks to readers with Sam's line, "By all rights we shouldn't even be here, but we are." After seeing how strongly the Ring affects Frodo during the Nazgûl attack, Faramir changes his mind and lets them go. These changes dilute (or at least reshape) the book's strong contrast between Faramir and Boromir, who in The Fellowship of the Ring attempted to take the Ring for himself. Boyens contends these plot changes were needed to keep the Ring menacing. Wenham himself, despite having not read the book, found the original character "dramatically dead".
Finally, the meaning of the title itself, 'The Two Towers', was changed. While Tolkien considered several possible sets of towers he eventually created a final cover illustration and wrote a note included at the end of The Fellowship of the Ring which identified them as Minas Morgul and Orthanc. Jackson's movie, which does not include Minas Morgul, names them as Orthanc and Barad-dûr, symbolic of an evil alliance out to destroy Men that forms the film's plot point.
Production
Production Design
When Alan Lee joined the project in late 1997, Helm's Deep was the first structure he was tasked to design. At 1:35 scale, it was one of the first miniatures built, and part of the 45 minute video that sold the project to New Line. It was primarily drawn from an illustration Lee had once done for the book, though fellow illustrator and designer John Howe suggested a curved wall. Used in the film for longshots, Jackson also used this miniature to plan the battle with 40,000 toy soldiers.
As a pivotal part of the story, Helm's Deep was built at Dry Creek Quarry with the Gate, a ramp, and a wall with a removable section and the tower on a second level. Most importantly, there was the 1:4 scale miniature of Helm's Deep that ran 50 feet wide. It was used for forced perspective shots, as well as the major explosion sequence.
The film explores the armies of Middle-earth. John Howe was the basic designer of the forces of evil. The Uruk-hai were the first army approved by Jackson, and Howe also designed a special crossbow for the characters, one without the redundancy of opening to reload, the realization of an 18th century manuscript. Also created were 100 Elven suits of armour, with emphasis on Autumnal colours due to the theme of Elves leaving Middle-earth. 250 suits were made for the Rohirrim, which for Bernard Hill, even came with leather inside. Emphasized are horses and the sun, even into their swords, which took 3-6 days to forge.
The Rohirrim's capital of Edoras took six months to build on Mount Sunday, with thatched roofs, but that was simply the exterior: the buildings doubled as offices and lunch halls. The army created a road to the location, whilst the interior was filmed at Stone Street Studios with tapestries designed by Lee, and Théoden's wooden throne created by his daughter. Hill endured heavy make-up for the possession scene where his skin was pulled back and released for increased wrinkles. Dourif shaved off his eyebrows and put potato flakes as dandruff in his hair for unnerving effect.
The film also provides a look at Mordor and Gondor, in terms of Frodo and Sam's story. The Barad-dûr is seen fully in a tracking shot, a design which Howe called a mockery of Gothic Cathedrals. He and Lee fully created the Black Gate, though a typo in the script made the miniature into two. The Rangers and Osgiliath, the ruined city reflecting London during the Blitz. The set on a backlot was based around a bridge and reused some of Moria.
Principal Photography
The Two Towers shared principal photography with The Fellowship of the Ring and The Return of the King between October 11 1999 to December 22 2000. Scenes in Rohan were shot early on, and Viggo Mortensen, Orlando Bloom and John Rhys-Davies' scale double Brett sustained many injuries. Mortensen broke his toe when he kicked an Orc helmet when he found the remains of the Uruk-hai and believes Merry and Pippin to be dead; this take is the one in the finished film. Bloom fell off his horse and broke his rib, whilst Brett dislocated his knee. All three spent two days of pain for the running sequence with these injuries.
Afterwards, they went on for three months filming the Battle of Helm's Deep. John Mahaffie handled most of the night shoots. Mortensen got his tooth knocked out during the nightshoots, and Bernard Hill also got his ear slashed. Nonetheless, the 700 extras had fun, insulting each other in Māoli and improvising scenes, such as the Uruk-hai stamping their spears before the battle begins. They did get annoyed by the craftsmanship of the Art Department: the Gates were too reinforced for the Battering Ram scene. Mortensen greatly respected the stunt team, and head butting them became a sign of respect.
Wood and Astin were joined by Serkis on April 13, 2000.
Special Effects
For The Two Towers, Weta Digital doubled their staff of 260. In total, they would produce 73 minutes of digital effects with 799 shots. The film would feature their first challenge in creating a battle scene, as well as creating two digital characters who needed to act rather than be a set piece, unlike the previous film's Cave Troll and Balrog.
Gollum
Weta began animating Gollum in late 1998 to convince New Line they could achieve the effect. Andy Serkis "played" Gollum by providing his voice and movements on set, as well as performing within the motion capture suit later on. His scenes were filmed twice, with and without him. Originally Gollum was set to solely be a CG character, but Jackson was so impressed by Andy Serkis' audition tape that they used him on set as well.
Gollum's CG model was also redesigned during 2001 when Serkis was cast as Sméagol, Gollum's form before he is cursed by the One Ring, so as to give the impression Andy Serkis as Sméagol transforms into the CG Gollum. The original model can still be glimpsed briefly in the first film. So over Christmas 2001 the crew proceeded to reanimate all the previous shots accordingly within two months. Another problem was that the crew realized that the cast performed better in the versions of the film with Serkis. In the end, the CG Gollum was rotoscoped and animated on top of these scenes. Sometimes due to Gollum not being human, they fully animated some shots such as him crawling upside down. Serkis's motion capture animated the body whilst animators did the head. Gino Acevedo supervised realistic skin tones, which took four hours per frame to render.
Treebeard
Treebeard took twenty-eight hours per frame to render. For scenes where he interacts with Merry and Pippin, a fourteen-foot-tall puppet was built on a wheel. Weta took urethane moulds of tree bark and applied them to the sculpt of Treebeard to create his skin. The puppet was shot against bluescreen.
Score
The musical score for The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers was composed, orchestrated, and conducted by Howard Shore, who also composed the music for the other two films in the trilogy. While the scores for its prequel and sequel won the Oscar for Best Score, the soundtrack for The Two Towers was not even nominated. (Initially there was confusion over the score's eligibility due to a new rule applying to sequels, but the Academy did declare it eligible.)
The funeral song Éowyn sings during her cousin Théodred's entombment in the Extended Edition is styled to be a traditional song of the Rohirrim, and has lyrics in their language, Rohirric (represented by Old English). The song does not appear in the book, and the tune is a variation upon a theme of the rímur Icelandic folk tradition; it can be heard as part of track 7 in the 1999 recording of a musical version of the Edda by Sequentia.
The soundtrack was recorded at Abbey Road. The soundtrack has a picture of Peter Jackson (barefoot), the composer, and two producers crossing Abbey Road, referencing the Beatles album of the same name..
Reception
Critics
On the reviewer aggregate website Rotten Tomatoes, the film has the most positive reception of the trilogy with a 97% fresh rating. The Battle of Helm's Deep has been named as one of the greatest screen battles of all time, while Gollum was named as the third most convincing computer generated film character by Entertainment Weekly in 2007.
Awards
Academy Awards
Winner: Visual Effects, Sound Editing.
Nominee: Best Picture, Best Art Direction - Set Decoration, Best Editing, and Best Sound.
American Film Institute: Digital Effects, Production Design, Movie of the Year
British Academy Film Awards: Best Costume Design, Best Special Visual Effects, Orange Film of the Year (voted on by the public)
Empire Awards: Best Picture
Hugo Award (World Science Fiction Society): Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form
MTV Movie Awards 2003: Best virtual performance (Gollum)
Saturn Awards: Best Fantasy Film, Best Costume (Ngila Dickson), Best Supporting Actor (Andy Serkis)
DVD release
The theatrical edition of the movie was released on DVD on August 26, 2003. The DVD was a 2-disc set with extras on the second disc. This was intended to be a simultaneous worldwide release, but some British stores began selling the DVDs on Friday August 22 because it was a Bank Holiday weekend, much to the ire of the film's UK distributor, which had threatened to withhold advance supplies of subsequent DVD releases.
The Two Towers followed the precedent set by its predecessor by releasing an Extended Edition (223 minutes) with new editing, and added special effects and music. This version was released on DVD November 19, 2003 along with four commentaries and hours of supplementary material. There is also a "Collectors Edition" DVD package containing the 4-disc set, a sculpture of Gollum, a booklet about the process of designing Gollum for the movie and a short DVD documentary on the process of designing collectible sculptures based on the movies' characters and artefacts. The original cut lasted 2:59. The extended edition lasts 3:43. There is also an Easter Egg on the film, found by going to the Scene Selection screen, selecting the last group of scenes, and pressing down until a gold ring icon appears next to the words "new scene". It shows Gollum's (very foul-mouthed) acceptance speech after winning the MTV Movie Award for Best Virtual Performance.
On August 29, 2006, a Limited Edition of The Two Towers was released. This Limited Edition contains two discs. The first is a two-sided DVD (also known as DVD-18) that contains both the Theatrical and Extended editions of the film. At the beginning of each side of the disc, the viewer can choose which version to watch. The second disc is a bonus disc that contains a new behind-the-scenes documentary.
In December, 2003 there were also limited back-to-back theatrical releases of the extended versions of The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers, followed by premieres of The Return of the King — in all 11 hours and 32 minutes long.
Additional scenes
The opening is extended. After Frodo wakes up, there is a scene of Frodo and Sam descending a cliff with the help of the Elvish rope. The title now appears over a panoramic shot of the hills. There is a brief shot of Frodo and Sam huddled under their cloaks during a rain storm, with Gollum following. After his taming, Gollum debates whether to take the hobbits to Mordor or not.
Merry and Pippin have more scenes. It is made clear that there are two groups of orcs, one from Mordor and the other from Isengard, setting up the eventual fight. It is also made clearer they think they have the Ring. When Merry and Pippin meet Treebeard, he takes them to his home, and recites poetry that puts the hobbits to sleep. They also learn more of Entish culture, drinking a draught that makes them grow taller, are rescued from a rogue tree (echoing their encounter with Tom Bombadil and Old Man Willow in the original The Fellowship of the Ring) and learn of the Entwives, and just how slow they are at the Entmoot.
Gandalf's reappearance is longer, identifying himself as what Saruman might have been. Legolas notes that the Elves taught the trees to talk and Gandalf predicts that Merry and Pippin will rouse the Ents. During the ride to Édoras, they camp for the night, and Gandalf and Aragorn discuss the coming war and Frodo's quest.
There is more drama within Edoras. Éomer has some more scenes, such as finding Théodred at the Fords of Isen and bringing him back to Édoras. When he is banished, he is presented by Wormtongue with a banishment order signed by King Théoden. There is a brief funeral scene for Théodred which includes Éowyn singing. Later, after Aragorn stops Théoden from killing Wormtongue, he extends his hand to Gríma. Gríma spits on it and then runs off. This leads to a later scene with Saruman where he scoffs at Isildur's Heir. Another new scene has Aragorn calming Théodred's horse Brego and turning him loose, setting up his rescue later on. During the exodus, Théoden tells Aragorn about Éowyn. She serves Aragorn a dubious-looking stew during the trip, he graciously manages to swallow a spoonful, and he tells her his remarkable age (87).
Faramir has more scenes. There is extra dialogue when he captures Sam and Frodo, emphasizing his dislike of war. When Frodo and Sam are brought to Henneth Annûn, they are told that Boromir's cloven horn was found. Faramir then remembers seeing Boromir's funeral boat passing him on the river. This leads to an extended flashback of Boromir and Faramir reclaiming Osgiliath from Mordor. Denethor (their father) expresses his disappointment with Faramir and then sends Boromir to Rivendell to claim the Ring. Faramir's men also beat up Gollum after catching him. One visual that was added was Minas Tirith in the background as the Rangers see Osgiliath burn, not present in the theatrical cut due to potential confusion over whether it was Helm's Deep.
The ending of the film is extended. After Treebeard discovers the destroyed part of the forest and sounds the alarm, thousands of Huorns depart to join the battle at Helm's Deep. When the Uruks retreat, they find a "forest" waiting to destroy them. The Uruk-hai-killing contest between Gimli and Legolas is settled, with Gimli the winner. After the destruction of Isengard, Merry and Pippin discover a rich larder of food, including a supply of pipeweed. Faramir shows Frodo and Sam a way out of the city, and realizes that Gollum's secret route is Cirith Ungol and advises Frodo not to take it, threatening Gollum and setting up the eventual betrayal.
9. Jurassic Park (1993)
(Collections: $919,700,000)
Jurassic Park is a 1993 science fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg, based on the novel of the same name by Michael Crichton. The film centers on the island of Isla Nublar, where scientists have created an amusement park of cloned dinosaurs. John Hammond (Richard Attenborough) invites a group of scientists, played by Sam Neill, Jeff Goldblum and Laura Dern, to visit the park. Sabotage sets the dinosaurs on the loose, and technicians and visitors attempt to escape the island.
Development of the film began before the novel was even published, and Crichton was hired to contribute to a script that cut much of its story. Spielberg hired Stan Winston Studios's puppets and worked with Industrial Light and Magic to develop cutting-edge computer-generated imagery to portray the dinosaurs. Jurassic Park was well received by critics, although they criticized the characterization. During its release, the film grossed more than $914 million, becoming the most successful film yet released, and it is currently the tenth-highest grossing feature film, significantly inspiring a new breed of films that primarily used CGI for special effects. Jurassic Park was the first film in the Jurassic Park franchise, followed by The Lost World: Jurassic Park in 1997 and by Jurassic Park III in 2001, with Jurassic Park IV in development.
Story and Plot Point
On Isla Nublar, an InGen employee is killed while releasing a Velociraptor into a specially built enclosure, prompting a lawsuit from his family. CEO John Hammond is pressured by his investors to allow a safety investigation by experts before opening the park. He invites paleontologist Alan Grant, paleobotanist Ellie Sattler, chaos theorist Dr. Ian Malcolm and his investors' attorney Donald Gennaro, to perform the inspection. The group meets a Brachiosaurus when they set out into the park. At the park, they learn that InGen recreated the dinosaurs by cloning genetic material found in mosquitoes that fed on dinosaur blood, preserved in Dominican amber. The DNA from these samples was spliced with DNA from frogs to fill in gaps: during this process, the dinosaurs are bred as females to control the population. The team is also shown the Velociraptor enclosure seen at the beginning of the film, which contains the ferocious and intelligent adults.
Malcolm and Sattler are concerned, but Grant remains neutral. They meet Hammond's grandchildren, Alexis and Tim Murphy, and go on a vehicular tour of the park. Ellie leaves the tour to take care of a sick Triceratops. A tropical storm hits the island and most InGen employees leave, except for Hammond, game warden Robert Muldoon, chief engineer Ray Arnold, and lead computer programmer Dennis Nedry. Commissioned by rival businessman Lewis Dodgson, Nedry takes an opportunity to shut down the park's security system so he can steal dinosaur embryos and deliver them to an auxiliary dock. Soon, a Tyrannosaurus breaks through the electric fence surrounding its pen, killing Gennaro, wounding Malcolm, and then attacking Tim and Lex hiding in the car. The children and Grant only narrowly avoid being killed and eaten. Meanwhile, Ellie and Muldoon rescue Malcolm and are almost caught by the T. rex during an intense chase. Nedry crashes his car and after trying to fix it is killed by a Dilophosaurus. Grant, Tim, and Lex spend the night in a tree and while hiking to safety the next morning discover some of the dinosaurs are actually breeding. Grant realizes that the frog DNA is responsible, as some species of frog are known to spontaneously change gender in a single-sex environment.
Arnold tries to hack Nedry’s computer to turn the power back on and fails, so he does a full system restart, which requires the circuit breakers to be manually reset from the utility shed. When he fails to return, Ellie and Muldoon follow and discover the Raptors have escaped. Muldoon tells Ellie to go to the utility shed herself and turn the power back on while he hunts the Raptors that have been stalking them. Muldoon is attacked and killed by a lurking Raptor while Ellie escapes from another after discovering Arnold's remains. After managing to turn on the power and escaping the Raptor, she meets up with Grant. They both go back to Malcolm and Hammond, and Grant grabs a shotgun after learning that two Raptors have escaped their pen and a third has been contained. Lex and Tim narrowly escape two of the Raptors in the kitchen, and Lex is finally able to restore the Park's computer systems in order to call Hammond to request a helicopter rescue of the survivors. Grant and Ellie hold off a Raptor trying to open the door to the computer room, until the power is restored and the electromagnetic locks begin working. With the door secure, the team climbs up into the ceiling crawlspace and arrive at the Visitors Center skeleton display. After a scuffle on top of the fossil exhibits where the Raptors block their escape route, help comes from an unlikely source when the Tyrannosaurus suddenly appears and kills both Raptors; unintentionally saving Grant, Ellie, Lex and Tim in the process. Grant, Ellie, Lex and Tim climb into Hammond and Malcolm's jeep and leave. Grant says he will not endorse the park, a choice with which Hammond concurs. Flying away in the helicopter, the children fall asleep beside Grant, who contemplatively watches the birds flying nearby, the surviving relatives of the dinosaurs they escaped.
Cast
Sam Neill as Dr. Alan Grant: A paleontologist excavating Velociraptor fossils in the Montana Badlands. He dislikes children, frightening one with a talon of a raptor, but he soon has to protect Hammond's grandchildren. Neill was Spielberg's original choice, but was busy. Spielberg then met Richard Dreyfuss and Kurt Russell, who were too expensive, and William Hurt turned down the role. Spielberg then pushed back filming a month to let Neill play the character: he wound up only having a weekend's break between filming Family Pictures and Jurassic Park. Neill prepared for the role by meeting Jack Horner.
Laura Dern as Dr. Ellie Sattler: A paleobotanist and Grant's girlfriend. Dern also met Horner and visited the Los Angeles Natural History Museum, learning to prepare a fossil.
Jeff Goldblum as Dr. Ian Malcolm: A mathematician and chaos theorist. He forewarns the danger of resurrecting dinosaurs and becomes Hammond's main opposition. He also falls for Sattler, another in a long line of romantic interests. Goldblum was Spielberg's first choice, and is a big fan of dinosaurs. To prepare for his role, Goldblum met with James Gleick and Ivar Ekeland to discuss Chaos Theory.
Richard Attenborough as John Hammond: CEO of InGen and architect of Jurassic Park. Jurassic Park was Attenborough's first acting role since 1979's The Human Factor.
Ariana Richards as Alexis "Lex" Murphy: Hammond's granddaughter, a vegetarian and self-professed computer hacker.
Joseph Mazzello as Timothy "Tim" Murphy: Lex's younger brother, into dinosaurs. He has read Grant's numerous books.
Wayne Knight as Dennis Nedry: The disgruntled architect of Jurassic Park's computer systems. He is bribed by Biosyn agent Lewis Dodgson for $1.5 million to deliver frozen dinosaur embryos.
Samuel L. Jackson as Ray Arnold: The park's chief engineer. He switches off the main power to reboot the mainframe — but unwittingly unleashes the raptors in doing so.
Bob Peck as Robert Muldoon: The park's game warden. He is concerned by the intelligence of the raptors, and would have them all destroyed.
Martin Ferrero as Donald Gennaro: A lawyer who represents Hammond's concerned investors.
B. D. Wong as Dr. Henry Wu: The park's chief geneticist, who is responsible for making all the dinosaurs female and lysine deficient. He leaves during the storm.
Gerald R. Molen, the film's producer, cameoed as Gerry Harding: The park's veterinarian, who appears to take care of the Triceratops.
Cameron Thor as Lewis Dodgson: The head of InGen's rival corporation Biosyn in the novel. He only appears in the film to give Nedry a shaving cream can to put stolen embryos in before he goes to Jurassic Park.
Dean Cundey, the film's cinematographer, cameoed as the Dockworker who Nedry talks to on the computer.
Richard Kiley as himself, supplying the voice of the car tour guide.
Production
Michael Crichton originally conceived a screenplay about a graduate student who recreates a dinosaur; he continued to wrestle with his fascination with dinosaurs and cloning until he began writing the novel Jurassic Park. Spielberg learned of the novel in October 1989 while he and Crichton were discussing a screenplay that would become the TV series ER. Before the book was published, Crichton put up a non-negotiable fee for $1.5 million as well as a substantial percentage of the gross. Warner Bros. and Tim Burton, Columbia Tristar and Richard Donner, and 20th Century Fox and Joe Dante bid for the rights, but Universal eventually acquired them in May 1990 for Spielberg. Universal further paid Crichton $500,000 to adapt his own novel, which he finished by the time Spielberg was filming Hook. Crichton noted that, because the book was "fairly long", his script only had about 10–20 percent of the content; scenes were dropped for budgetary and practical reasons. After completing Hook, Spielberg wanted to film Schindler's List. MCA president Sid Sheinberg greenlit the film on one condition: that Spielberg make Jurassic Park first. Spielberg later said, "He knew that once I had directed Schindler I wouldn't be able to do Jurassic Park".
Spielberg hired Stan Winston to create the animatronic dinosaurs, Phil Tippett to create go motion dinosaurs for longshots, and Michael Lantieri and Dennis Muren to supervise the on-set effects and digital compositing respectively. Paleontologist Jack Horner supervised the designs, to help commit to Spielberg's desire of portraying the dinosaurs as animals rather than monsters. Horner dismissed the raptors' flicking tongues in Tippett's early animatics, complaining, "[The dinosaurs] have no way of doing that!" Based on Horner's complaint, Spielberg insisted that Tippett take the tongues out. Winston's department created fully detailed models of the dinosaurs, before molding latex skins, which were folded over onto complex robotics. Tippett created stop-motion animatics of major scenes, but, despite go-motion's attempts at motion blurs, Spielberg still found the end results unsatisfactory in terms of working in a live-action feature film. Animators Mark Dippe and Steve Williams went ahead in creating a computer generated walk cycle for the T. rex skeleton and were approved to do more. When Spielberg and Tippett saw an animatic of the T. rex chasing a herd of Gallimimus, Spielberg said, "You're out of a job," to which Tippett replied, "Don't you mean extinct?" Spielberg later wrote both the animatic and his dialogue between him and Tippett into the script.
Malia Scotch Marmo began a script rewrite in October 1991 over a five month period, merging Ian Malcolm with Alan Grant. Screenwriter David Koepp came on board afterward, starting afresh from Marmo's draft, and used Spielberg's idea of a cartoon shown to the visitors to remove much of the exposition that fills Crichton's novel. Spielberg also excised a sub-plot of Procompsognathus escaping to the mainland and attacking young children, as he found it too horrific. This subplot would eventually be used as a prologue in the Spielberg-directed sequel, 'The Lost World'. In terms of characterization, Hammond was changed from a ruthless businessman to a kindly old man, as Spielberg admitted he identified with Hammond's obsession with showmanship. He also switched the characters of Tim and Lex; in the book, Tim is aged 11 and into computers, and Lex is only seven or eight and into sports. Spielberg did this because he wanted to work with Joseph Mazello, and it also allowed him to introduce the subplot of Lex's adolescent crush on Grant. Koepp changed Grant's relationship with the children, making him hostile to them initially to allow for more character development. Koepp also took the opportunity to cut out a major sequence from the book where the T. rex chases Grant and the children down a river before being tranquilized by Muldoon for budget reasons.
After two years and one month of pre-production, filming began on August 24, 1992 on the Hawaiian island of Kauaʻi. The three week shoot involved various daytime exteriors. On September 11, Hurricane Iniki passed directly over Kauaʻi, which caused the crew to lose a day of shooting. The scheduled shoot of the Gallimimus chase was moved to Oahu. The crew moved back to the mainland U.S.A., to shoot at Universal Studios's Stage 24, for scenes involving the raptors in the kitchen. The crew also shot on Stage 23 for the scenes involving the power supply before going on location to Red Rock Canyon for the Montana dig scenes. The crew returned to Universal to shoot Grant's rescue of Tim, using a fifty-foot prop with hydraulic wheels for the car fall, and the Brachiosaurus encounter. The crew proceeded to film scenes for the Park's labs and control room, which used animations for the computers loaned from Silicon Graphics and Apple In. This can be seen in the film as Nedry talks to the dockworker, a supposedly live conversation which is clearly a video file due to the visible playback bar. The crew moved to Warner Bros. Studios' Stage 16 to shoot the T. rex attack on the tour cars. Shooting proved frustrating due to water soaking the foam rubber skin of the animatronic dinosaur. Back at Universal, the crew filmed scenes with the Dilophosaurus on Stage 27. Finally, the shoot finished on Stage 12, with the climactic chases with the raptors in the Park's computer rooms and Visitor's Center. Spielberg brought back the T. rex for the climax, nixing his original ending of Grant using a platform machine to maneuver a raptor into a fossil tyrannosaur's jaws. The film wrapped twelve days ahead of schedule on November 30, and within days Michael Kahn had a rough cut ready, allowing Spielberg to go ahead with filming Schindler's List.
Special effects work continued on the film, with Tippett's unit adjusting to new technology with Dinosaur Input Devices: models which fed information into the computers to allow themselves to animate the characters traditionally. In addition, they acted out scenes with the raptors and Gallimimus. As well as the computer generated dinosaurs, ILM also created elements such as water splashing and digital face replacement for Ariana Richard's stunt double. Spielberg monitored their progress from Poland. Composer John Williams began work on the score at the end of February, and it was conducted a month later by John Neufeld and Alexander Courage. The sound effects crew, supervised by George Lucas, were finished by the end of April. Jurassic Park was finally completed on May 28, 1993.
Dinosaurs on screen
Despite the title of the film, most of the dinosaurs featured did not exist until the Cretaceous period.
Tyrannosaurus, informally dubbed "T. Rex", is the star of the film according to Spielberg, being the reason he rewrote the ending for fear of disappointing the audience. Winston's rex animatronic stood 20 feet, weighed 13,000 pounds, and was 40 feet long. Jack Horner called it "the closest I've ever been to a live dinosaur". The dinosaur is depicted with a vision based on movement. The rex's roar is a baby elephant mixed with a tiger and an alligator and its breath is a whale's blowhole. A dog attacking a ball was used for the sounds of it tearing a Gallimimus apart.
Velociraptor, dubbed 'raptors' in the film, also have a major role, although those depicted are not based on the actual species in question, which is significantly smaller. It was instead based on its larger relative, Deinonychus, which was at the time called Velociraptor antirrhopus by some scientists. Crichton followed this theory, but by the time production of the film took place, the idea had been dropped. When the similar Utahraptor was discovered before the film's release, Stan Winston joked, "We made it, then they discovered it." For the attack on Robert Muldoon, the raptors were played by men in suits. Dolphin screams, walrus bellowing, geese hissing, an African crane's mating call and human rasps were mixed to form various raptor sounds. Following discoveries made after the film's release, most paleontologists have concluded that dromaeosaurs like Velociraptor and Deinonychus had feathers.
Dilophosaurus was also very different from its real life counterpart, made significantly smaller to make sure audiences did not confuse it with the raptors. Its frill and its ability to spit poisonous fluid are fictitious. Its vocal sounds were made by combining a swan, a hawk, a howler monkey, and a rattlesnake together.
Brachiosaurus is inaccurately depicted as chewing its food as well as standing up on its hind legs to browse among the high tree branches. Despite scientific evidence of them having limited vocal capabilities, sound designer Gary Rydstrom decided to represent them with whale songs and donkey calls to give them a melodic sense of wonder.
Triceratops has an extended cameo. Its appearance was a particular logistical nightmare for Stan Winston when Spielberg requested to shoot the animatronic of the sick creature earlier than expected. Winston also created a baby Triceratops for Ariana Richards to ride, which was cut from the film for pacing reasons.
Gallimimus' and Parasaurolophus' roles are mainly cameos, the latter appearing in the first encounter with the Brachiosaurus.
Release
Universal spent $65 million on the marketing campaign for Jurassic Park, making deals with 100 companies to market 1000 products. These included three Jurassic Park video games by SEGA and Ocean Software, a toy line by Kenner that was distributed by Hasbro, and a novelization aimed at young children. The released soundtrack included unused material. Trailers for the film only gave fleeting glimpses of the dinosaurs, a tactic journalist Josh Horowitz described as "that old Spielberg axiom of never revealing too much" when Spielberg and director Michael Bay did the same for their production of Transformers in 2007. The film was marketed with the tagline "An Adventure 65 Million Years In The Making", which was an on-set joke of Spielberg's regarding the genuine mosquito in amber used for Hammond's walking stick.
The film had its premiere at the National Building Museum on June 9, 1993 in Washington D.C., in support of two children's charities. The film made its VHS debut on October 4, 1994, and was first released on DVD on October 10, 2000. The film was also released in a package with The Lost World: Jurassic Park. The DVD has also been re-released with both sequels on December 11, 2001, as the Jurassic Park Trilogy and as the Jurassic Park Adventure Pack on November 29, 2005.
Following the film's release, a travelling exhibition began. Steve Englehart wrote a series of comic books published by Topps Comics. They acted as a continuation of the film, consisting of the two issue Raptor, and Raptors Attack, Raptors Hijack and Return to Jurassic Park, which were four issues each. Return to Jurassic Park was to continue for another four issues but was canceled. All published issues were republished under the single title Jurassic Park Adventures in the U.S.A., and as Jurassic Park in the U.K. Ocean Software released a game sequel entitled Jurassic Park Part 2: The Chaos Continues in 1994 on Super NES and Game Boy.
The Jurassic Park Ride began development in November 1990 and premiered at Universal Studios Hollywood on June 15, 1996 to the cost of $110 million. Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida has an entire section of the park dedicated to Jurassic Park which includes the main ride, here christened Jurassic Park River Adventure, which opened in March 1999, and many smaller rides and attractions based on the Jurassic Park series. At 85 feet, the drop at the Orlando ride is the deepest ever built. The Universal Studios theme park rides have been designed to support the film's plot, with Hammond having been contacted to rebuild the Park at the theme park location.
Reaction
Jurassic Park went on to become the most financially successful film yet released, beating E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial which previously held the title, although it did not top E.T. domestically. The film opened with $47 million in its first weekend, and it grossed $81.7 million by its first week. The film stayed at number one for three weeks and eventually grossed $357 million domestically. The film also did very well in foreign markets, breaking opening records in the U.K., Japan, South Korea, Mexico and Taiwan. Spielberg earned over $250 million from the film. Jurassic Park's worldwide gross was topped five years later by James Cameron's Titanic.
The film received modestly positive reviews. High praise was heaped on the visual effects, although there was a lot of criticism leveled at the characterization and departures from the book. Janet Maslin in The New York Times called it, "A true movie milestone, presenting awe- and fear-inspiring sights never before seen on the screen....On paper, this story is tailor-made for Mr. Spielberg's talents...[but] [i]t becomes less crisp on screen than it was on the page, with much of the enjoyable jargon either mumbled confusingly or otherwise thrown away." In Rolling Stone, Peter Travers described the film as "colossal entertainment - the eye-popping, mind-bending, kick-out-the-jams thrill ride of summer and probably the year....Compared with the dinos, the characters are dry bones, indeed. Crichton and co-screenwriter David Koepp have flattened them into nonentities on the trip from page to screen." Roger Ebert noted, "The movie delivers all too well on its promise to show us dinosaurs. We see them early and often, and they are indeed a triumph of special effects artistry, but the movie is lacking other qualities that it needs even more, such as a sense of awe and wonderment, and strong human story values." Henry Sheehan argued, "The complaints over Jurassic Park's lack of story and character sound a little off the point," pointing out the story arc of Grant learning to protect Hammond's grandchildren despite his initial dislike of them.
Awards
The movie won all three Academy Awards it was nominated for: Visual Effects, Sound Effects Editing, and Sound. It won the Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation and the Saturn Awards for Best Science Fiction Film, Best Direction, Best Writing for Crichton and Koepp and Best Special Effects. The film won the People's Choice Awards for Favorite All-Around Motion Picture. Young Artist Awards were given to Ariana Richards and Joseph Mazzello, with the film winning an Outstanding Action/Adventure Family Motion Picture award. The film won honours outside of the U.S., such as the BAFTA for Best Special Effects, as well as the Award for the Public's Favourite Film, and Awards for Best Foreign Language Film from the Japanese Academy, Mainichi Eiga Concours and Blue Ribbon, and the Czech Lions.
Jurassic Park is ranked as fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with an 85% positive rating, with 28 out of 33 critics giving it positive reviews. The American Film Institute named Jurassic Park the 35th most thrilling film of all time on June 13, 2001, and Bravo chose a scene from it as the 95th scariest scene of all time in 2005. In 2004, on their fifteenth anniversary, Empire called it the sixth most influential film of their lifetime. Upon their fifty-fifth anniversary in 2005, Film Review declared it one of the five most important films of their lifetime. In 2006, IGN ranked Jurassic Park as the 19th greatest film franchise of all time.
Most significantly, when many filmmakers saw Jurassic Park's use of computer generated imagery, they realized that many of their visions, previously thought unfeasible or too expensive, were now possible. Stanley Kubrick contacted Spielberg to direct A.I., George Lucas started to make the Star Wars prequels, and Peter Jackson began to re-explore his childhood love of fantasy films, a path that led him onto The Lord of the Rings and King Kong. Jurassic Park has inspired films and documentaries such as Godzilla, Carnosaur and Walking with Dinosaurs, as well as numerous parodies. Stan Winston joined together with IBM and director James Cameron to form Digital Domain, saying, "If I didn't get involved, I was going to become the dinosaur." Alex Billington declared it as a film that was ahead of its time, saying that on another level, "Even using the animatronics system that they did, this was a far step ahead of anything at the time. Then the stories surrounding how horrifically real the dinosaurs were fueled its popularity even more. And the best part is that they look better in this movie than any more recent CGI creations."
10. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
(Collections: $892,194,397)
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is a 2005 fantasy adventure film, based on J.K. Rowling's novel of the same name, and is the fourth film in the popular Harry Potter film series.
Directed by Mike Newell, the film concerns Harry Potter's fourth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Hogwarts has been selected to hold the recently returning wizard competition known as the Triwizard Tournament. Though Harry does not apply, the Goblet of Fire mysteriously selects him as a second representative of Hogwarts in the tournament.
Three days after its release, the film had grossed over US$102 million at the North American box office, the highest first-weekend tally for a Harry Potter film, and enjoyed an immensely successful run at the box office, earning over $896 million worldwide, making it the highest grossing film of 2005 and the 8th-highest grossing film of all time. It was the third highest grossing film in the U.S. for 2005 making $290 million. It is currently the 11th highest-grossing film of all time. The DVD went on to become the fastest selling DVD of all time. It is currently the third-highest grossing Harry Potter film, behind Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Art Direction, but lost to Memoirs of a Geisha.
This is the first Harry Potter film to receive a "PG-13" rating or its international equivalent (for sequences of fantasy violence and frightening images), the preceding films having been rated PG or one of its international equivalents.
Plot Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley enter their fourth year at Hogwarts school. The film opens in a graveyard attached to an old country house; the gardener Frank Bryce awakes in his cottage to see a light on in the house. He investigates to find Lord Voldemort and Peter Pettigrew discussing plans with an unidentified man; Voldemort kills Bryce. Harry awakes at The Burrow before departing with the Weasley family and Hermione for the Quidditch World Cup. After the introduction to the game, there is a temporal jump to that evening, when the camp is attacked by Death Eaters, who disperse when the Dark Mark is shot into the air by an unknown man.
Harry, Ron and Hermione arrive at Hogwarts, where they find that it will be hosting the Triwizard Tournament, a legendary event in which one wizard each from two rival schools and Hogwarts compete in three dangerous tasks. Dumbledore reveals the Goblet of Fire, a magical cup into which potential champions must drop a piece of parchment with their name on it; the goblet acts as an impartial judge to select candidates. The goblet reveals its results by shooting the relevant pieces of parchment into the air: Cedric Diggory from Hogwarts, Viktor Krum from Durmstrang and Fleur Delacour from Beauxbatons. The goblet then unexpectedly announces a fourth champion, Harry, although he did not enter his name and is in any case under the age limit set by the Ministry of Magic. Although Harry insists that he did not enter his name, his selection invites jealousy and suspicion from his fellow students, including a breakdown of friendship with Ron which lasts until after the first task. Dumbledore asks the new Defence against the Dark Arts professor, Alastor Moody, to keep an eye on Harry. Moody is an eccentric and paranoid man with a magical eye, who drinks only from a hip-flask for fear of poison.
In the first Triwizard task, the four champions each battle a dragon to retrieve a golden egg. Harry casts a summoning charm to bring his broom into the arena, and attempts to dodge the dragon in the air. The dragon, however, breaks free of its chains and chases Harry through the Hogwarts grounds, eventually running into a stone bridge and falling dead. Harry retrieves the egg, which is said to contain a clue about the second task. When Harry opens it, though, only a horrible screeching is heard. Cedric Diggory, the other Hogwarts champion, advises Harry to open the egg underwater. Harry does so in the prefects' bathroom and hears the clue clearly; it informs him that the merpeople will take something of Harry's and that he must retrieve it from the lake in the Hogwarts grounds. Having eaten gillyweed, a magical plant which enables him to breathe underwater, Harry follows a mermaid to where the merpeople have chained Ron, Hermione, Cho Chang, and Gabrielle Delacour to a rock with thousands of merpeople guarding them. When Harry arrives in the village of the merpeople they do not attack Harry but they do give him a hard time by threatening Harry with their spears. Cho is retrieved by Cedric; Victor, the Durmstrang champion, takes Hermione. As Fleur was attacked by Grindylows and had to withdraw from the task, Harry rescues both Ron and her sister. But on the way back to the surface Harry is attacked by a herd of Grindylows who viciously attack Harry and attempt to drown him but Harry escapes by using his wand. Although this causes Harry to finish outside the time limit of one hour, his courage is rewarded with high marks.
A traditional part of the Triwizard tournament is the Yule Ball, to which students are encouraged to invite partners of the opposite sex. There follow scenes in which Harry and Ron attempt to get partners for the ball. Harry is especially concerned since, as one of the champions, he is expected to open the dance. He eventually asks Cho when they bump into each other in the Owlery; however, she declines. She has already accepted an offer from Cedric Diggory. Ron desperately asks Hermione, who also declines — at the opening of the Yule Ball scene, it is revealed that she had been invited by Viktor Krum. Eventually, Harry asks Parvati Patil, who accepts; her sister Padma partners Ron. Although Hermione greatly enjoys the ball, Harry and Ron do not; Ron, who is particularly jealous of Krum, accuses Hermione of "fraternising with the enemy," leading to a serious row between the two characters.
For the third task, the Triwizard cup is placed inside a large maze whose magical hedges are capable of attacking the champions as they attempt to reach it: the first champion to touch the cup will be declared the winner. Along the way Harry is attacked by the magical hedges but manages to escape before he is crushed. Having saved each other several times throughout the tournament, Harry and Cedric reach the cup together and decide to claim a draw, both touching the cup at the same time. The cup, which is actually a portkey, transports the two to a graveyard, where Pettigrew appears with a form of Voldemort. Upon command, Wormtail kills Cedric and traps Harry against an enchanted tombstone. Wormtail performs complicated magic, taking blood from Harry's arm and other ingredients to return Voldemort to a corporeal body. After explaining how he lost his powers to Harry, Voldemort duels Harry. Thanks to a rare magical effect, Harry is able to escape by summoning the cup, which takes him back to Hogwarts. Moody takes Harry to his office, but he suddenly starts to change his appearance as he has run out of Polyjuice Potion. The Moody who has been at Hogwarts all year is revealed an escaped Death Eater who has been impersonating the real Alastor Moody. This impostor has been working to help Harry win the Triwizard tournament and hence reach the cup first. Harry was not supposed to survive or return; as the false moody Moody is about to kill Harry, Dumbledore, Snape, and McGonagall burst in the room and stun him. The impostor rapidly returns to his own appearance; he is Barty Crouch Jr, the mysterious man in Harry's dream at the beginning. The film closes as the foreign schools depart after Dumbledore exhorts them to stand together against Voldemort.
Cast
Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter: the main protagonist. Now entering his fourth year as Hogwarts, Harry is unknowingly entered in to Triwizard tournament.
Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley: one of Harry's best friends. Although he falls out with Harry at the beginning of the Triwizard tournament, the pair reconcile and remain good friends.
Emma Watson as Hermione Granger: one of Harry's best friends. Although she loathes her position as an intermediary between Harry and Ron during their period of hostility, she remains supportive of Harry throughout.
Ralph Fiennes as Lord Voldemort: the primary villain. The darkest wizard of age, who returns to a human body at the climax of the film.
Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore: the Hogwarts headmaster. He is supportive of Harry throughout the year, although he does not suspect Moody until it is almost too late.
Brendan Gleeso as Alastor Moody: the Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. He is revealed as an impostor at the end of the film.
Robert Pattinson as Cedric Diggory: a Hogwarts student who is chosen as a Triwizard champion. He is murdered in the graveyard at the climax of the film.
Gary Oldman as the voice and motion capture of Sirius Black: who appears for a brief expository scene in a fireplace in the Gryffindor common room.
Miranda Richardson as Rita Skeeter: an over-inquisitive journalist.
Alan Rickman as Severus Snape: the Potions teacher.
Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid: the Hogwarts gamekeeper. He is responsible for showing Harry the dragons prior to the first task.
Maggie Smith as Minerva McGonagall: the Transfiguration teacher, and Harry's housemistress.
Timothy Spall as Peter Pettigrew: Voldemort's main servant, who helps in his rebirth.
Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy: Draco Malfoy's father, who is seen in the graveyard at the film's climax in Death Eater robes.
David Tennant as Barty Crouch Jr.: the impostor who impersonates Alastor Moody, to assist in the return of Voldemort.
Frances de la Tour as Olympe Maxime: a half-giant who is headmistress of Beauxbatons Academy of Magic.
Predrag Bjelac as Igor Karkaroff: the headmaster of Durmstrang.
Warwick Davis as Filius Flitwick: the Hogwarts charms professor.
Tom Felton as Draco Malfoy: Harry's school nemesis. He is briefly turned into a ferret by Moody.
Robert Hardy as Cornelius Fudge: the Minister for Magic.
Roger Lloyd-Pack as Barty Crouch: head of the Department of Magical Co-operation, who is murdered by his son.
Clémence Poésy as Fleur Delacour: the Triwizard champion from Beauxbatons.
Stanislav Ianevski as Viktor Krum: the Durmstrang Triwizard champion. He invites Hermione Granger to the Yule Ball.
Katie Leung as Cho Chang: a girl on whom Harry has a crush, and who he unsuccessfully tries to invite to the Yule Ball.
Matthew Lewis as Neville Longbottom: a Gryffindor student. He suggests Gillyweed to Harry as a means to survive the Second task.
Mark Williams as Arthur Weasley: Ron's father. He takes the children to the Quidditch World Cup.
James and Oliver Phelps as Fred and George Weasley: Ron's rebellious older brothers.
Bonnie Wright as Ginny Weasley: Ron's younger sister.
Shirley Henderson as Moaning Myrtle: a Hogwarts ghost who haunts the school plumbing network.
Jeff Rawle as Amos Diggory: Cedric's father.
Angelica Mandy as Gabrielle Delacour: Fleur's younger sister, who is rescued from the lake by Harry in the second task.
Adrian Rawlins and Geraldine Somerville as James and Lily Potter: Harry's parents, who appear as ghosts at the climax of the film.
Jarvis Cocker, Phil Selway, Jonny Greenwood, Steve Mackey, Jason Buckle and Steven Claydon cameoed as the members of the Weird Sisters.
Production
The film was mainly shot in Leavesden Film Studios. Other locations used in filming are as follows:
Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire, England, UK
Knebworth House, Hertfordshire, England, United Kingdom (including the Yule Ball Staircase scene)
Black Park, Iver, Buckinghamshire, England, UK
Divinity School, Bodleian Library, Broad Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, England, UK
Beachy Head, Eastbourne, East Sussex, England, UK
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Lochaber, Highland, Scotland, UK (Hogwarts Express)
New College, Holywell Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, England, UK (Cloister, Ferret Scene)
Steall Falls, Scotland, UK
Virginia Water, Surrey, England, UK
Beckley Park, Oxfordshire, England, UK
Differences from the book
With the Goblet of Fire novel almost twice the length of Prisoner of Azkaban, the writers and producers reduced certain scenes and concepts that made the transition from page to screen. Director Mike Newell described the problem as one of "compressing [a] huge book into the compass of a movie." This was achieved by "putting aside" all the components of the novel which did not directly relate to Harry and his journey. Even producer David Heyman admitted missing many of the scenes which were removed. In particular, the gameplay at the Quidditch world cup was removed for timing reasons, leaving an abrupt temporal jump which some reviewers considered awkward or "rushed". Heyman also regretted the removal of S.P.E.W., Hermione's Society for the Promotion of Elfish Welfare – this omission was continued in the following film.
As in Prisoner of Azkaban, most of the classes shown in the book were removed, only the single lesson where Alastor Moody demonstrates the Unforgivable Curses making the final cut. Goblet of Fire is also the only film adaptation not to begin in Privet Drive; after the opening sequence, Harry awakens at the Burrow on the morning of the Quidditch World Cup. Other scenes are shortened and amalgamated to include only the most essential plot details; the three Death Eater trials Harry witnesses in the Pensieve are merged into one short sequence, and all of Sirius Black's lines are condensed into a single fireside conversation.
In addition to large slices of the school year, many characters, such as Barty Crouch Senior, Rita Skeeter and Amos Diggory, were severely reduced in scope, or removed altogether, such as Ludo Bagman and Winky and Dobby the house-elves. In the movie, both Beauxbatons and Durmstrang appear to be single-sex schools. All of the Beauxbatons visitors to Hogwarts are girls, while all the Durmstrang students are boys. In the book, both schools are co-educational and send both boys and girls to visit Hogwarts.
While the three tasks of the Triwizard tournament generally remained true to the original novel, certain adaptations were included for dramatic effect. The first task, whilst contained entirely within the stadium in the original book, is extended into an extensive chase scene through the Hogwarts buildings and grounds. The second task was almost entirely faithful to the novel, although the Grindylow attack was moved to the end of the sequence as the effects of the Gillyweed wears off. Because Dobby is not present in the film, Neville instead gives Harry the Gillyweed, as was Barty Crouch Junior's original plan in the novel. For the third task, the scene giving the champions advance warning of the maze was removed, as were all of Harry's preparations for it. In the film, the maze itself is devoid of the magical creatures and enchantments that were present in the book; instead, Dumbledore warns the contestants that "people change in the maze. Find the cup if you will, but be careful not to lose yourself". Krum, visibly under the Imperius Curse, still attempts to attack Cedric (although with the Killing Curse rather than the Cruciatus Curse) but in the film version Fleur is not attacked by Krum – instead, she is seen being throttled and absorbed by the magical hedges, which are another addition for dramatic effect.
Reaction
Critical reception
The film was received very positively by critics, garnering an 89% "Cream of the Crop" rating at Rotten Tomatoes. The New York Daily News praised the film for both its humour and its dark tone. The young actors were praised for demonstrating a "greater range of subtle emotions", particularly Daniel Radcliffe whom Variety described as delivering a "dimensional and nuanced performance". New cast members were also praised: Brendan Gleeson's portrayal of Mad-Eye Moody was described as "colourful"; Miranda Richardson's scenes were described as "wonderful"; and Ralph Fiennes's portrayal of Lord Voldemort was described as "sublime villainy".
The maturity of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, among others, impressed most critics. While the major characters were portrayed as children in the previous films, "they have subtly transitioned into teenagers (in Goblet of Fire)" according to one USA Today reviewer. Harry has also physically matured since Prisoner of Azkaban. In the scene in the prefects' bathroom, Daniel Radcliffe's character is shown with significant axillary hair and muscle growth. When asked about the scene, Radcliffe replied, "Hey, I'm growing up. I was fifteen when I filmed that scene, and hell, Harry's fourteen now. It's quite common for guys our age to have underarm hair or to work out."
Negative criticism included the film's pace which The Arizona Republic described as being "far too episodic", while CNN.com described the film as "clunky and disjointed". Another criticism was that the many supporting characters did not get enough screen time. Some fans criticised the film for changing and leaving out too much of the source material, particularly those parts that developed character, and those parts of the story that set-up events that occur later in the series.
Box office performance
After an opening day of $40m at the North American box office and staying at #1 for three weeks, Goblet of Fire enjoyed a successful run at the box office, running for 20 weeks in theatres and closing on April 6, 2006. The film set numerous records including the highest non-May opening weekend in the US and the most successful opening ever in the UK, earning £14.9m in its opening weekend. Goblet of Fire then drew $102.7 million from 3,858 locations its opening weekend at the North American box office, setting a new opening high for the franchise and selling about as many tickets as the first movie, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, did in its opening weekend. The debut marked the fourth $100 million weekend in history and to this day stands as the ninth largest opening weekend ever, behind Spider-Man 3's $151 million, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest's $135 million, Shrek the Third's $121 million, Spider-Man's $114.8 million, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End's $112 million Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith's $108.4 million, Shrek 2's $108 million, and X-Men: The Last Stand's $102.8 million. In mainland China the film generated 93 million yuan.
Goblet of Fire has earned US $896 million worldwide, making it not only the highest grossing international and worldwide release of 2005, but one of the few films to have ever passed $600 million in international box office receipts. It has joined seven other titles that have passed the $600 million mark, including Titanic, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, and the first, second and fifth Harry Potter films. Its worldwide total includes $290 million from the U.S. and Canada.
The film was also released in IMAX theatres and grossed a total of US $20,033,758 worldwide for a cumulative per screen average of $188,998 thus setting a new record and a new milestone for a digitally remastered 2-D IMAX release.
In January 2006, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire surpassed the box office takings of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, to become the eighth highest-grossing film worldwide, during that time, and the second highest-grossing film in the Harry Potter series, behind Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Today, it is the third highest-grossing Harry Potter film behind The Philosopher's Stone and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
The film ranks third in the North American box office (domestic) behind Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe for 2005 though both films rank lower than Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in worldwide terms.
Awards
Nominated:
Academy Award for Best Art Direction, lost to Memoirs of a Geisha
Stuart CraigStephanie McMillan
Wyrd Sisters lawsuit
In the runup to the movie, Warner Bros. approached a Canadian folk group called the Wyrd Sisters to obtain permission to use the name THE WEIRD SISTERS for its Harry Potter Band. When a deal could not be made, the Canadian band filed a US$40-million lawsuit against Warner Brothers, the North American distributor of the film, for the misuse of their group's name. The Canadian band also brought an injunction to stop the release of the movie as it contained a performance by the improperly named Harry Potter band. This motion was dismissed by an Ontario judge.
Before the film was released, Warner Brothers claimed that it had never used the name THE WEIRD SISTERS in any way in the film or otherwise and that it would not do so in the future. However, since this turned out not to be true, the Canadian band is continuing its action in the Federal Court of Canada where Warner Bros. and some of its major licensees are being sued for misuse of the Canadian band's name in Harry Potter merchandise along with misuse in the film and soundtrack. In the Ontario Court, Warner Bros. and its counsel on the injunction are the subject of contempt proceedings relating to alleged violations in Warner Bros.' testimony on the interlocutory injunction. The judge that heard the matter, Mr. Justice Colin Campbell of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, is the subject of a complaint to the Canadian Judicial Council arising from allegations of judicial misconduct relating to the injunction hearing itself and interference with the action in the Ontario Court in the months following the injunction hearing.
DVD
The film was released on DVD in North America on March 7, 2006. It was available in one- and two-disc editions, as well as part of an 8-disc boxset that includes all four films to date. The bonus disc features three interactive games, as well as seven behind the scenes featurettes. The film was also released in UMD format for PSP.
Wal-Mart had a special bonus disc available for purchase alongside the single-disc editions that features extra features and a sample of the Harry Potter edition of the Scene It? DVD game.
On its first day of release in North America, over 5 million copies were sold, recording a franchise high for first-day sales. Within its first week it sold over a total of 9 million units of combined sales of both the widescreen and full-screen versions of the DVD.
The UK edition was released on DVD on March 20, 2006 and became the fastest selling UK DVD ever, selling six copies per second on its first day of release. According to the Official Charts Company, the DVD sold 1.4 million copies in its first week alone. It is also available in a two-disc edition with special features similar to the North American two-disc edition.
The DVD currently holds the Guinness World Record for being the fastest selling DVD of all time. The achievement is added to the 2007 edition of The Guinness World Records book which includes a picture of the award being presented at Leavesden Studios in April.
Future Shop has an exclusive promotion including a holographic cover for the two-disc edition.
Warner Home Video announced the HD DVD edition of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire was to be released on April 11, 2006; however, due to the delayed release of Toshiba's HD DVD player, the HD DVD edition of Goblet of Fire was pushed back to April 18, 2006. This deadline was also missed. In the United States, the first five Harry Potter films will be released on HD DVD and Blu-ray disc on December 11, 2007. They will be available individually or in a gift set containing all five films and a set of collectible cards and bookmarks. The Chinese DVD edition was released 2 weeks before the North American release as an effort to combat DVD piracy in the country of China. The DVD was sold at a low price of $2.73 USD.
The Indian Version of the DVD was a two-disc special edition, which was released by Saregama home video on April 7, 2006. Instead of VHS a VCD was released. The DVD priced Rs.699 INR($14.86 USD) and VCD priced Rs. 299 INR($6.37 USD)
11. Spider-Man 3 (2007)
(Collections: $885,430,303)
Spider-Man 3 is a 2007 American superhero film written and directed by Sam Raimi, with a screenplay by Ivan Raimi and Alvin Sargent. It is the third film in the Spider-Man film franchise based on the fictional Marvel Comics character Spider-Man. The film stars Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, and Topher Grace.
The film begins with Peter Parker basking in his success as Spider-Man, while Mary Jane Watson begins her Broadway career. Harry Osborn still seeks vengeance for his father's death, and an escaped convict, Flint Marko, falls into a particle accelerator and is transformed into a shape-shifting sand manipulator. An alien symbiote crashes to Earth and bonds with Peter, influencing his behavior for the worse. When the symbiote is abandoned, it finds refuge in Eddie Brock Jr., a rival photographer, causing Peter to face his greatest challenge.
Spider-Man 3 was commercially released in multiple countries on May 1, 2007, and released in the United States in both conventional and IMAX theaters on May 4, 2007. Although the film received generally mixed reviews from critics, in contrast to the previous two films' highly positive reviews, it broke most of the opening weekend records, both in the United States and in foreign markets, including records held in IMAX theaters.
Story and Plot Point
Peter Parker has begun to feel secure in his life and plans to propose to Mary Jane. One night in a park, while Peter and Mary Jane are on a date, a small meteorite crashes nearby, and an alien symbiote oozes out, attaching itself to Peter's moped. Meanwhile, escaped convict Flint Marko falls into a particle accelerator, which fuses his body with the surrounding sand. The result allows him to shape shift at will. Peter's best friend, Harry Osborn, who seeks vengeance for his father's death, which he believes Peter caused, attacks him. The battle leaves Harry with short-term amnesia, making him forget his vendetta.
Later, during a festival honoring Spider-Man for saving Gwen Stacy’s life, Marko attempts to rob an armored car, and overpowers Spider-Man. Captain Stacy later informs Peter and Aunt May that Marko is the one who killed Ben Parker, and a vengeful Peter waits for Marko to strike again. The symbiote bonds with his costume while he is asleep; Peter discovers that not only has his costume changed, but his powers have been enhanced as well. The black suit also alters Peter's personality, making him more violent, exemplified by a near lethal attack on Marko during a battle underground.
The shift in Peter's personality alienates Mary Jane, whose stage career is floundering, and she finds solace with Harry. Harry recovers from his amnesia, and, urged on by an apparition of his dead father, forces MJ to break up with Peter. After Mary Jane leaves Peter, stating she is in love with another man, Harry meets him at a restaurant and claims to be the other man. Later, Peter finds him at the Osborn mansion. With the help of the black suit, Peter is victorious in a brutal fight, which leaves Harry's face disfigured. Influenced by the suit, Peter exposes and humiliates Eddie Brock Jr., a rival photographer at the Daily Bugle, who sells fake pictures of Spider-Man.
In an effort to make MJ jealous, Peter brings Gwen to the nightclub where Mary Jane works and Peter gets into a fight. In the scuffle, he accidentally knocks MJ to the floor. Peter realizes the symbiote-suit is changing him for the worse. He runs out of the nightclub and goes to a church bell tower to be rid of it. Initially he is unable to pull the suit off, but the sound waves from the church bells weaken the symbiote, freeing Peter. Eddie Brock is at the same church praying for Peter’s death when the symbiote falls from the tower and takes over his body. The newly-powered Eddie finds Marko and suggests that they join forces to destroy Spider-Man.
The pair use Mary Jane as bait to force Spider-Man to confront them. Peter approaches Harry for help, but is turned down and leaves. However, Harry learns the truth about his father's death from his butler Bernard, and arrives in time to rescue Peter, teaming up against Brock and Marko. As the fight progresses, Brock attempts to impale Peter with the glider, but Harry sacrifices himself and is fatally wounded. Peter recalls how the church bell's toll weakened the symbiote, and frees Eddie from it by clanging several pipes together. Peter throws a pumpkin bomb at the symbiote just as Eddie, who has grown attached to its power, attempts to re-bond with it. Eddie and the symbiote are destroyed in the explosion.
After the battle, Marko tells Peter that he had no intention of killing Ben Parker, and that it was an accident born out of a desperate attempt to save his daughter's life. Peter forgives Flint, who dissipates and floats away. Peter and Harry forgive each other as Harry dies with Mary Jane and Peter by his side. After Harry's funeral, Peter and Mary Jane begin to mend their relationship.
Cast
Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker / Spider-Man: A superhero, a brilliant physics student at Columbia University and photographer for the Daily Bugle. As he grows arrogant with the city starting to embrace him for the first time in his career, an alien symbiote attaches itself to Peter's costume and influences his behavior for the worse. Maguire said he relished the opportunity to play a less timid Parker in this film.
Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson: Peter Parker's girlfriend and a Broadway actress, whom he has loved since childhood. Mary Jane has a string of bad luck in the film, reminiscent of Peter's misfortune in Spider-Man 2, losing her job because of bad reviews and getting dumped by her boyfriend when the symbiote takes over.
James Franco as Harry Osborn / New Goblin: The son of Norman Osborn and Peter Parker's former best friend, who believes Spider-Man murdered his father. After learning Peter is Spider-Man and that Norman was the Green Goblin, Harry becomes the New Goblin to battle his former friend directly.
Rosemary Harris as May Parker: The aunt of Peter Parker and the widow of Ben Parker, Peter's uncle. She gives Peter her engagement ring so he can propose to Mary Jane, and gives him lessons in forgiveness.
J. K. Simmons as J. Jonah Jameson: The aggressive chief of the Daily Bugle. He has particular dislike towards Spider-Man, whom he considers a criminal.
Dylan Baker as Dr. Curt Connors: A college physics professor under whom Peter Parker studies. He examines a piece of the symbiote and tells Peter it increases aggression.
Willem Dafoe as Norman Osborn / Green Goblin: The hallucination of Harry Osborn's late wicked father returns to encourage his son to destroy Spider-Man.
In addition to these reprisals, Spider-Man 3 introduces:
Thomas Haden Church as Flint Marko / Sandman: A small-time thug who has a wife and sick daughter, for whom he steals money to help get the treatment to cure her. He transforms into the Sandman following a freak accident, and incurs Peter's wrath when Peter learns he was his Uncle Ben's true killer. Church was approached for Sandman because of his award-winning performance in the film Sideways, and accepted the role despite the lack of a script at the time. The film's Sandman possesses sympathy similarly exhibited by Lon Chaney in his portrayals of misunderstood creatures, as well as Frankenstein's monster, the Golem, and Peter Jacksons incarnations of Gollum and King Kong. Church worked out for 16 months to improve his physique for the role, gaining twenty-eight pounds of muscle and losing ten pounds of fat.
Topher Grace as Edward "Eddie" Brock, Jr. / Venom: Peter's rival at the Daily Bugle. He is exposed by Peter for creating a fake incriminating image of Spider-Man, and leaps at the opportunity to exact his revenge when he bonds with the symbiote. Grace had impressed the producers with his performance in the film In Good Company. A big comic book fan who read the first Venom stories as a boy, Grace spent six months working out to prepare for the role, gaining twenty-four pounds of muscle. He approached the character as someone under the influence, similar to an alcoholic or drug addict, and interpreted him as having a bad childhood, which is the key difference between him and Peter. Grace found his costume unpleasant, as it had to be constantly smeared to give a liquid-like feel. The costume took an hour to put on, though prosthetics took four hours to apply. Grace also wore fangs, which bruised his gums.
Bryce Dallas Howard as Gwen Stacy: Peter's lab partner. He asks her out to embarrass Mary Jane when possessed by the symbiote. Howard said the challenge of playing the role was in reminding many fans of the good-natured character who was Peter's first love in the comics, yet was "the other woman" in the film. Howard strived to create a sense that Gwen could potentially be a future girlfriend for him, and that, "I was not acting like some kind of man-stealing tart." Howard performed many of her stunts, unaware of the fact she was pregnant.
James Cromwell as Captain George Stacy: Gwen's father and a New York City Police Captain.
Spider-Man co-creator Stan Lee has a cameo in Spider-Man 3, as he did in the previous Spider-Man films, which he referred to as his "best cameo". Actor Bruce Campbell, who had cameo roles as a wrestling ring announcer in Spider-Man and as a rude usher in Spider-Man 2, returns in Spider-Man 3 with a new cameo as a French maître d'. Originally his character, who helps Peter try to propose, was much more antagonistic. Composer Christopher Young appears in the film as a pianist at Mary Jane's theater when she is sacked, while producer Grant Curtis cameoed as the driver of an armored car that Sandman attacks.
Production
Development
In March 2004, with Spider-Man 2 being released the coming June, Marvel Studios had begun developing Spider-Man 3 for a release in 2007. By the release of Spider-Man 2, a release date for Spider-Man 3 had been set for May 2, 2007 before production on the sequel had begun. The date was later changed to May 4, 2007. In January 2005, Sony Pictures Entertainment completed a seven-figure deal with screenwriter Alvin Sargent, who had penned Spider-Man 2, to work on Spider-Man 3 with an option to write a fourth film.
Immediately after Spider-Man 2's release, Ivan Raimi wrote a treatment over two months, with Sam Raimi deciding to use the film to explore Peter learning that he is not a sinless vigilante, and that there also can be humanity in those he considers criminals. Harry Osborn was brought back as Raimi wanted to conclude his storyline, but Raimi felt that Harry would not follow his father's legacy, but be instead "somewhere between". Sandman was introduced as an antagonist, as Raimi found him a visually fascinating character. While Sandman is a petty criminal in the comics, the screenwriters created a background of the character being Uncle Ben's killer to increase Peter's guilt over his death and challenge his simplistic perception of the event. Overall, Raimi described the film as being about Peter, Mary Jane, Harry and the Sandman, with Peter's journey being one of forgiveness.
Raimi wanted another villain, and Ben Kingsley was involved in negotiations to play the Vulture before the character was cut. Producer Avi Arad convinced Raimi to include Venom, a character whose perceived "lack of humanity" had initially been criticized by Sam Raimi. Venom's alter-ego, Eddie Brock, already had a minor role in the script. Arad told the director that Venom had a strong fan base, so Raimi included the character to please them, and even began to appreciate the character himself. The film's version of the character is an amalgamation of Venom stories. Eddie Brock, Jr., the human part of Venom, serves as a mirror to Peter Parker, with both characters having similar jobs and romantic interests. Brock's actions as a journalist in Spider-Man 3 also represent contemporary themes of paparazzi and tabloid journalism. The producers also suggested adding rival love interest Gwen Stacy, filling in an "other girl" type that Raimi already created. With so many additions, Sargent soon found his script so complex that he considered splitting it into two films, but abandoned the idea when he could not create a successful intermediate climax.
Filming
Camera crews spent ten days from November 5, 2005 to November 18, 2005, to film sequences that would involve intense visual effects so Sony Pictures Imageworks could begin work on the shots early in the project. The same steps had been taken for Spider-Man 2 to begin producing visual effects early for sequences involving the villain Doctor Octopus.
Principal photography for Spider-Man 3 began on January 16, 2006 and wrapped in July 2006 after over a hundred days of filming. The team filmed in Los Angeles until May 19, 2006. In spring 2006, film location manager Peter Martorano brought camera crews to Cleveland, due to the Cleveland Film Commission offering production space at the city's convention center at no cost. In Cleveland, they shot the battle between Spider-Man and Sandman in the armored car. Afterwards, the team moved to Manhattan, where filming took place from May 26, 2006 until July 1, 2006. Shooting placed a strain on Raimi, who often had to move between several units to complete the picture. Shooting was also difficult for cinematographer Bill Pope, as the Symbiote Spider-Man, Venom and the New Goblin were costumed in black during fight scenes taking place at night.
After August, pick-ups were conducted as Raimi sought to film more action scenes. The film then wrapped in October, although in the following month, additional special effects shots were taken to finalize the production. At the start of 2007, there were further pick-up shots regarding the resolution of Sandman's story, amounting to four different versions.
Effects
John Dykstra, who won the Academy Award for Visual Effects for his work on Spider-Man 2, declined to work on the third film as visual effects supervisor. Dykstra's colleague, Scott Stokdyk, took his place as supervisor, leading two hundred programmers at Sony Pictures Imageworks designed specific computer programs that did not exist when Spider-Man 3 began production, creating nine hundred visual effects shots.[30] In addition to the innovative visual effects for the film, Stokdyk created a miniature of a skyscraper section at 1:16 scale with New Deal Studios' Ian Hunter and David Sanger. Stokdyk chose to design the miniature instead of using computer-generated imagery so damage done to the building could be portrayed realistically and timely without guesswork involving computer models. In addition, to Sony Imageworks, CafeFX provided visual effects for the crane disaster scene when Spider-Man rescues Gwen Stacy, as well as shots in the climactic battle.
To understand the effects of sand for the Sandman, experiments were done with twelve types of sand, such as splashing, launching at stuntmen, and poured over ledges. The results were mimicked on the computer to create the visual effects for Sandman. For scenes involving visual effects, Thomas Haden Church was super-imposed onto the screen, where computer-generated imagery was then applied. With sand as a possible hazard in scenes that buried actors, ground-up corncobs were used as a substitute instead. Because of its resemblance to the substance, sand from Arizona was used as the model for the CG sand. In a fight where Spider-Man punches through Sandman's chest, amputee martial arts expert Baxter Humby took Tobey Maguire's place in filming the scene. Humby, whose right hand was amputated at birth, helped deliver the intended effect of punching through Sandman's chest.
Whereas the symbiote suit worn in the comics by Spider-Man was a plain black affair with a large white spider on the front and back, the design was changed for the film to become a black version of Spider-Man's traditional costume, complete with webbing motif. As a consequence of this, the suit Topher Grace wore as Venom also bore the webbing motif; as producer Grant Curtis noted, "it’s the Spider-Man suit, but twisted and mangled in its own right." Additionally, the motif gave a sense of life to the symbiote, giving it the appearance of gripping onto the character's body. When animating the symbiote, Raimi did not want it to resemble a spider or an octopus, and to give it a sense of character. The CG model is made of many separate strands. When animating Venom himself, animators observed footage of big cats such as lions and cheetahs for the character's agile movements.
Music
Originally, Danny Elfman, the composer for the previous installments, did not plan to return for the third installment of Spider-Man because of difficulties with director Sam Raimi. Elfman said that he had a "miserable experience" working with Raimi on Spider-Man 2 and could not comfortably adapt his music. Christopher Young was then announced to score Spider-Man 3 in Elfman's absence. In December 2006, however, producer Grant Curtis announced that Elfman had begun collaborating with Christopher Young on the music for Spider-Man 3.
Young, who had composed some of the score for the second film, kept the themes for Spider-Man and the Green Goblin, and he composed new themes for Sandman, Venom, and the love story. Sandman's theme uses "two contrabass saxophones, two contrabass clarinets, two contrabrass bassoons and eight very low French horns" to sound "low, aggressive and heavy". Young described Venom's theme as "vicious. My instructions on that one were that he’s the devil personified. His theme is much more demonic sounding." Venom's theme uses eight French horns. Raimi approved the new themes during their first performance, but rejected the initial music to the birth of Sandman, finding it too monstrous and not tragic enough. Young had to recompose much of his score at a later stage, as the producers felt there weren't enough themes from the previous films. Ultimately, new themes for the love story, Aunt May and Mary Jane were dropped.
Release
Spider-Man 3 had its world premiere in Tokyo on April 16, 2007, which garnered positive reaction from Japanese viewers. The film held its UK premiere on April 23, 2007 at the Odeon Leicester Square, and the U.S. premiere took place at the Tribeca Film Festival in Queens on April 30, 2007.
Spider-Man 3 was commercially released in sixteen territories on May 1, 2007. The film was released in Japan on May 1, 2007, three days prior to the American commercial release, to coincide with Japan's Golden Week. Spider-Man 3 was also released in China on May 3, 2007 to circumvent market growth of pirated copies of the film. The studio's release of a film in China before its domestic release was a first for Sony Pictures Releasing International. By May 6, 2007, Spider-Man 3 opened in one-hundred-and-seven countries around the world.
The film was commercially released in the United States on May 4, 2007 in a North American record total of 4,253 theaters, including fifty-three IMAX theaters. The record number of theaters was later beaten by Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, which was released in 4,362 theaters in the United States, one-hundred-and-ten more than Spider-Man 3. Tracking data a month before the U.S. release reflected over 90% awareness and over 20% first choice among moviegoers, statistics that estimated an opening weekend of over $100 million for Spider-Man 3. Online tickets for Spider-Man 3 were reported on April 23, 2007 to have been purchased at a faster rate -- three times at Movietickets.com and four times at Fandango -- than online ticket sales for Spider-Man 2. On May 2, 2007, Fandango reported the sales rate as six times greater than the rate for Spider-Man 2. The strong ticket sales caused theaters to add 3:00 AM showings following the May 4, 2007 midnight showing to accommodate the demand.
The FX channel signed a five year deal for the television rights to Spider-Man 3, which they plan to start airing at the beginning of 2009. The price will be based on the film's box office performance, with an option for three opportunities for Sony to sell the rights to one or more other broadcast networks.
Marketing
In New York City, the hometown of Spider-Man's fictional universe, tourist attractions arranged events and exhibits on April 30, 2007 to lead up to the release of Spider-Man 3. The unique campaign include a spider exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History, workshops on baby spider plants at the New York Botanical Garden, Green Goblin mask-making workshop at the Children's Museum of Manhattan, and a scavenger hunt and a bug show at Central Park Zoo.
Hasbro, which holds the license for Marvel characters, has released several toys to tie-in with the film. They include a deluxe spinning web blaster, along with several lines of action figures aimed at both children and collectors. Toys of the Green Goblin and Doctor Octopus from the first two films have been re-released to match the smaller scale of the new figures, as have been toys of the Lizard, the Scorpion, Kraven the Hunter, and the Rhino in a style reminiscent of the films. Techno Source created interactive toys, including a "hand-held Battle Tronics device that straps to the inside of a player’s wrist and mimics Spidey’s web-slinging motions". Japanese Medicom Toy Corporation produced collectibles, which Sideshow Collectibles distributed in the US.
Home video
Spider-Man 3 was released on Region 4 DVD in Australia on September 18, 2007. For Region 2 in the United Kingdom, the film was released on October 15, 2007. Spider-Man 3 was released on DVD in Region 1 territories on October 30, 2007. The film is available in one-disc and two-disc editions, on both standard and Blu-ray formats, as well as packages with the previous films and a PSP release. Sam Raimi, Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher Grace, Bryce Dallas Howard, Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad and Grant Curtis are among those who contributed to the audio commentaries.
Sony has announced plans to create "one of the largest" marketing campaigns in Hollywood for the October 30, 2007 release of the DVD. Beginning with a partnership with Papa Johns, Sony will print close to 8.5 billion impressions for pizza boxes, television, radio and online ads. Sony will also be working with Pringles Potato Crisp, Blu-Tack, Jolly Time Pop Corn, and Nutella. Sony's Vice President of marketing, Jennifer Anderson, stated the studio would be spending approximately 15% to 25% of its marketing budget on digital ad campaigns; from this, Papa Johns will be sending text messages to mobile phones with ads. Anderson stated that there will be three sweepstakes held for consumers, where they will be able to win prizes from Sony and its promotional partners.
Reception
Box office performance
On its international opening day on May 1, 2007 in 16 territories, Spider-Man 3 grossed $29.2 million, an 86% increase from the intake of Spider-Man 2 on its first day of release. In 10 of the 16 territories, Spider-Man 3 set new opening day records. In Asian territories, the film surpassed the opening-day record of Spider-Man 2 in Japan and South Korea. Spider-Man 3 also set opening-day records in Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and the Philippines. In India, where the movie was released in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Bhojpuri, the film grossed $4.66 million over the opening weekend, breaking the record set by Casino Royale in 2006 ($3.63 million). In Europe, the film broke Italy's opening-day record set by 2006's The Da Vinci Code. In Germany, the film surpassed the opening day gross of Spider-Man 2. In France, Spider-Man 3 broke the opening day record set by Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith in 2005. The film broke the opening weekend records in 29 countries, while being at least #1 in all 107 countries that it opened, which brought its international total to $231 million.
Spider-Man 3 set a record $59.8 million take for its opening day in the United States, breaking Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest 's $55.8 million record. The movie also took the worldwide opening day record with $117 million. The US opening day take includes a record $10 million in Thursday midnight showings. Spider-Man 3 broke Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest's all-time weekend debut by grossing $151.1 million. The film also set a new worldwide record for opening weekend, with a final total of $382 million. As of December 3, 2007, The total gross in America was $336,530,303, while the worldwide total was $890,871,626. It now ranks 3rd worldwide for the year behind Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and 12th all time. The film's IMAX screenings reached $20 million in 30 days, faster than any other 2D film remastered in the format.
Critical reaction
On the movie review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, Spider-Man 3 has a 62% critic rating from 219 reviews, with a 45% Cream of the Crop rating based on 39 reviews from major news outlets. On Metacritic, Spider-Man 3 has received a 59% rating based on 40 reviews. On Yahoo! Movies, Spider-Man 3 is graded a B- among 15 film critics. In an early, positive review, posted April 25, 2007, Roger Friedman of Fox News called the film a "4 star opera", noting that while long, there was plenty of humor and action. Andy Khouri of Comic Book Resources praised the film as "easily the most complex and deftly orchestrated superhero epic ever filmed […] despite the enormous amount of characters, action and sci-fi superhero plot going on in this film, Spider-Man 3 never feels weighted down, tedious or boring." Jonathan Ross, a big fan of the comic books, felt the film was the best of the trilogy. Richard Corliss of Time commended the filmmakers for their ability to "dramatize feelings of angst and personal betrayal worthy of an Ingmar Bergman film, and then to dress them up in gaudy comic-book colors". Wesley Morris of the The Boston Globe, who gave the film 4 out of 5 stars, wrote that it was a well made, fresh film, but would leave the viewer "overfulfilled". Jonathan Dean of Total Film felt the film's complex plot helped the film's pacing, in that, "it rarely feels disjointed or loose […] Spider-Man cements its shelf-life." Entertainment Weekly named the Sandman as the eighth best computer-generated film character.
John Hartl of MSNBC gave Spider-Man 3 a good review, but stated that it has some flaws such as having "too many storylines". His opinion is echoed by Houston Chronicle's Amy Biancolli who complained that "the script is busy with so many supporting characters and plot detours that the series' charming idiosyncrasy is sometimes lost in the noise." Jack Matthews of New York Daily News thought the film was too devoted to the "quiet conversations" of Peter and Mary Jane, but that fans would not be disappointed by the action. Among less enthusiastic reviewers, Sean Burns of Philadelphia Weekly felt that the director "substituted scope and scale for the warmth and wit that made those two previous pictures so memorable." Manohla Dargis of The New York Times deplored the film's pacing as "mostly just plods" and a lack of humor. Richard Roeper of the Chicago Sun-Times gave the film only 2 out of 4 stars, feeling, "for every slam-bang action sequence, there are far too many sluggish scenes." David Edelstein of New York Magazine misses the "centrifugal threat" of Alfred Molina's character, adding that "the three villains here don’t add up to one Doc Ock." James Berardinelli felt director Sam Raimi "overreached his grasp" by allowing so many villains, specifically saying, "Venom is one bad guy too many." Roger Ebert thought Church failed to express how Sandman felt about his new powers, something Molina, as Doc Ock in Spider-Man 2, did "with a vengeance"; he claimed the film was "a mess", with too many villains, subplots, romantic misunderstandings, conversations, and "street crowds looking high into the air and shouting 'oooh!' this way, then swiveling and shouting 'aaah!' that way".
12. Shrek 2 (2004)
(Collections: $880,871,036)
Shrek 2, which was released in the United States on May 19, 2004, is the 2004 sequel to the 2001 computer-animated DreamWorks Pictures film Shrek. In April 2004, the film was selected for competition at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival. There are more Shrek movies to follow, according to Jeffrey Katzenberg: "We didn't have the guts to tell anybody when we started out, [but] we have two more chapters to tell. Not unlike Peter Jackson did with The Lord of the Rings. The difference is they did have the guts to make all three of them 'back-to-back-to-back'".
Shrek 2 scored the fourth-largest three-day opening weekend in US history, as well as the largest opening for an animated movie until May 18th, 2007, when it was eclipsed by its sequel Shrek the Third. As of 2006, it is the 3rd highest box office grossing film of all time in the United States. Worldwide, it is the ninth highest-grossing film of all time. It went on to be the most successful film in 2004. The associated soundtrack reached the top ten of the Billboard 200. It is also the highest-grossing animated film of all time (seventh after adjusting for inflation).
Story and Plot Point
In the beginning of Shrek 2, Prince Charming is riding a noble stallion to Dragon's Keep while narrating the origin of Princess Fiona. He is going to Dragon's Keep to save her. When Prince Charming gets there, he finds out from the Big Bad Wolf that Fiona has gone on her honeymoon. Charming is astounded.
Shrek and Fiona are on their honeymoon at Hansel's Honeymoon Hideaway. But, when Shrek and Fiona return to the swamp, they find Donkey in Shrek's alligator-skin chair, singing to himself. Shrek tells Donkey he hasn't done a very good job taking care of the place. Fiona asks Donkey if he should be getting home to Dragon, but Donkey says she's been moody lately. Finally, Shrek tells Donkey that he is interrupting their night. Donkey leaves, but then returns, telling Shrek some knights are outside of his swamp. A man, who is visiting with the knights, reads a royal page carrying a scroll inviting Fiona and Shrek to Far Far Away for a royal ball celebrating their marriage and to give her 'prince charming' their blessing. The king and queen, King Harold and Queen Lilian, are the rulers of Far Far Away and Fiona's parents. Shrek and Fiona, along with Donkey, set off to Far Far Away.
The trip isn't easy for Donkey, who keeps annoying Shrek and Fiona asking if they are there yet. After much madness, they get to Far Far Away. Once they get to the castle, a whole crowd is waiting to see Fiona and her prince charming. Doves are released, but once Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey step out of the onion carriage, the crowd gasps, along with Fiona's parents. The king and queen are stunned at Fiona's choice of marriage. They all force smiles.
That night, they all sit down to dinner. Harold stares angrily at Shrek. Shrek does not know royalty. He eats the escargots with their shells still on, he eats the water from his finger-dipping bowl, thinking it's soup. Once dinner is served, Shrek and Harold begin yelling at each other. Fiona then storms off to her room, angrily. In her room, she meets her Fairy Godmother. Shrek then enters her room and Fairy Godmother is angry at Fiona's husband. She then gives Fiona her card. But Shrek takes it and says that they are already happy. Shrek then tells Fiona they are leaving. Donkey and Fiona don't want to leave. Shrek and Fiona get into a fight, which the king overhears. Lilian then tells Harold that it was her choice. Fairy Godmother then takes Harold into her carriage and tells him to get rid of Shrek so that her son, Prince Charming can marry her.
Harold then goes to the Poison Apple pub to find an ogre killer. The bartender, Cinderella's ugly Step Sister, Doris, tells him there is only one guy that can do that sort of job. Harold then hires Puss In Boots, the cat ogre killer. That night, Shrek reads Fiona's childhood diary and is sad at the thought of her dreams of marrying a handsome prince. Harold asks Shrek if he will join him for a morning hunt the next morning, while in reality planning on Puss In Boots finding them. Harold tells Shrek it would mean the world to Fiona for them to bond, and Shrek agrees to the outing as he had promised to try to get along better with Fiona's parents.
The next morning, Shrek and Donkey are lost in the woods. Puss In Boots jumps down and surprises them. Puss attacks Shrek, while Donkey tries to get him off Shrek. Shrek finally catches the cat and Donkey suggests that they "give him the Bob Barker treatment" (neuter him) with his own sword. Puss begs to be forgiven and he and Shrek become fast friends. Shrek remembers the card Fairy Godmother gave him. He, Puss, and Donkey use it to travel to her Potion Factory. Fairy Godmother tells Shrek ogres don't live Happily Ever After. Shrek, Donkey and Puss sneak into the Potion Containment Room, where they steal the Happily Ever After potion.
Back in the woods, Shrek and Donkey drink the potion and nothing happens. Shrek sniffs the potion and sneezes on a toadstool. Once it begins to rain, Shrek, Donkey and Puss head for a barn and stay there for the night, failing to notice that once the rain touches the toadstool, it turns into a rose. Inside the barn, Shrek and Donkey faint. Back in Far Far Away, Fiona is affected by the potion too and faints. The next morning, Shrek and Donkey wake up to realize they have changed. Shrek is a handsome human while Donkey is a noble white stallion. Shrek needs to find Fiona and kiss her before midnight to stay the way they are. Donkey and Puss steal the clothes from two noblemen for Shrek and the three head off to Far Far Away. Fiona wakes up and finds herself a human again. She screams so Shrek runs inside to find her. Fiona hears his voice and runs outside while Shrek runs into her room to find Fairy Godmother. Fiona finds Donkey as a horse, who tells her Shrek went inside looking for her. She runs into Charming, who tells her he is Shrek. Harold and Lilian wake up and go to Fiona. Harold realizes Fairy Godmother and Charming's plan. Fairy Godmother tricks Shrek into thinking that Fiona loves Charming and tells him to return to his swamp and let Fiona and Charming be together.
Shrek, Donkey and Puss head off to the Poison Apple and see Harold go into the back room with Charming and Godmother. Shrek, curious, take Donkey and Puss and listen in through the window. Fairy Godmother gives Harold a potion to make Fiona fall in love with the first man she kisses. Harold initially refuses, feeling guilty over manipulating his daughter's true happiness, however Fairy Godmother reminds him that she gave him his own Happily Ever After and threatens to take it away if he doesn't go through with the potion. Fairy Godmother then sees Shrek (after Donkey gives an angry outburst) and sends knights out after him.
That night, the royal ball begins, while celebrities, like Sleeping Beauty, begin to come. The fairy tale creatures, Gingy, Pinocchio, the Three Little Pigs, the Three Blind Mice, and Wolf, watch the royal ball coverage on the Magic Mirror in Shrek's house. A commercial comes on of KNIGHTS. The show shows knights capturing Shrek, Donkey and Puss. They are thrown into a paddy wagon. When Shrek reveals his name, Gingy pauses the clip, then rewinds it, then replays it. The fairy tale creatures find out about this, and head off to rescue Shrek, Donkey and Puss.
Meanwhile, King Harold slips the potion into a cup of tea for Fiona. After he finds her up in the castle, watching the ball, she says she wants her old Shrek back. She then reaches for a cup of tea, however he tells her to take the other one, as the one she was going to take was going to be for him.
Back in the dungeon of a far away jail, the fairy tale creatures save Shrek, Donkey, and Puss and create a giant gingerbread man named Mongo with help from the Muffin Man. They use the giant cookie to break into the ball. Fiona and Charming begin to dance at the ball, while Mongo begins to pull down the drawbridge, but the guards dump hot milk on him and his arms fall off of him. Shrek manages to get through the cracks of the drawbridge and lowers it. Shrek and Donkey charge into the ballroom and the fairy tale creatures begin to fight Fairy Godmother. Fiona realizes it's not Shrek she's dancing with. Fairy Godmother tells Charming to kiss Fiona to activate the potion. But once Charming is done kissing her, she knocks him out with a head butt, revealing that Harold gave her the wrong tea on purpose, after feeling guilty about his actions. Shrek and Fiona embrace one another, but Prince Charming gets the wand and tosses it to the Fairy Godmother and she proceeds to turn on Shrek, telling once again that ogres don't live happily ever after. She then sends a blast of magic out to kill Shrek. Harold uses his armor to deflect the spell which bounces off and hits her. Fairy Godmother disappears, with only her glasses and wand left. Harold is back to his true form, a frog. Shrek and Fiona are about to kiss, but Fiona tells Shrek she wants to live happily ever after, with the ogre she married. Shrek, Fiona and Donkey return to their true forms. Harold apologizes to Shrek and tells him that he only wanted Fiona to be happy. He gives the couple his blessing and goes to leave, however Queen Lilian tells him that she still loves him, even though he's a frog. That night, the gang dance into the night, having a big party.
After the party, Donkey is all alone, singing a song. Puss and two girls are about to head off to the "Kitt Katt Klub" when Dragon comes and tells Donkey that she has had babies. Donkey and Dragon are then proud parents of a litter of donkey-dragon dronkeys.
Voice cast
Shrek ... Mike Myers (actor)
Princess Fiona ... Cameron Diaz
Donkey ... Eddie Murphy
Queen Lillian ... Julie Andrews
Puss in Boots ... Antonio Banderas
King Harold ... John Cleese
Prince Charming ... Rupert Everett
Fairy Godmother ... Jennifer Saunders
Doris ... Larry King (US)/Jonathan Ross (UK)
Shrek ... Jim Cummings (sometimes)
Guillaume Aretos ... Receptionist
Kelly Asbury ... Page/Elf/Nobleman/Nobleman's Son
Cody Cameron ... Pinocchio/ Three Little Pigs
Conrad Vernon ... Gingerbread Man/Cedric/Announcer/Muffin Man/Mongo
Billy Ray Cyrus ... Prince Shrek
Aron Warner ... Big Bad Wolf
Kelly Cooney ... Fast Food Clerk
Chris Knights ... Three Blind Mice
Mark Moseley ... Mirror/Dresser
Alina Phelan ... Maiden #1/Generic Female #2
Joan Rivers/Kate Thornton (UK version only) ... Herself
Erika Thomas ... Maiden #2
Simon Cowell ... as himself (DVD version only)
Production
Another unusual item was Joan Rivers' cameo - this marked the first time that a real person had been represented on screen by the Shrek animation team. The DVD version of the film includes a second real-life cameo with an appearance by Simon Cowell in the "Far Far Away Idol" bonus feature.
Release
Shrek 2 was originally going to release in June 2004. A day before the movie went to theaters, the first five minutes were shown on Nickelodeon's U-Pick Live.
It was the first film with over 4,000 theaters in overall count; over 3,700 theaters was its count for an opening day. Spider-Man 2 was the first film with over 4,000 theaters for an opening day and second for overall counts.
When the film was released on DVD on November 5, 2004, it was the last Shrek film to be presented in its original ratio of 1.85:1 on the Region 1 anamorphic widescreen DVD.
TV releases
This film had its US network television premiere on November 24, 2006, airing on ABC at 8 PM/7 PM ET/CT. It has yet to be aired on British terrestrial television.
The film aired for the first time on free to air television in Australia on June 3, 2007. It was broadcast simultaneously on the Nine Network and WIN Television at 8:30PM AEST (Australian Eastern Standard Time).
The film appeared on FOX Latin America (Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Venezuela, etc.) on February 4, 2007, after intensive publicity since the TV broadcast of Garfield on December 31, 2006
The film was aired on TVN in Poland on March 2, 2007
The film was aired on ProSieben in Germany on April 6, 2007
The film was aired on Canale 5 in Italy for the first time on May 23, 2007
The film was aired on Kanal 5 in Sweden for the first time on August 25, 2007
It will be shown on BBC on Xmas Day after Finding Nemo
DVD and VHS releases
This film has been released on VHS, standard DVD, and Blu-Ray DVD. The DVDs have Far Far Away Idol.
Reaction
Box office performance
Shrek 2 spent a total of 21 weeks in theaters, closing on November 25, 2004. It grossed about $440 million domestically (USA and Canada) and totaled just under 920 million USD worldwide. This puts the movie at third on the all-time domestic box-office list and ninth on the worldwide box-office list. It was also the number one grossing movie of 2004. With DVD sales and Shrek 2 merchandise are estimated to total almost $800 million USD, this is DreamWorks most profitable movie to date.
Budget - $150,000,000
Opening Weekend Gross (Domestic) - $108,037,878
Total Domestic Grosses - $441,226,247
Total Overseas Grosses - $478,612,511
Total Worldwide Grosses - $919,838,758
Critical reception
The film was well received by a number of critics, many rating it as good as or better than its predecessor. Metacritic has developed a weighted average rating of 73 out of 100 based on 39 professional reviews published in newspapers, magazines and in highly regarded Internet sites. Rotten Tomatoes gave Shrek 2 an approval rating of 88%.
13. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
(Collections: $866,300,000)
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets is the second fantasy adventure film in the popular Harry Potter films series, based on the novel by J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. The film was released on November 15, 2002 and was directed by returning director, Chris Columbus. The screenplay was adapted by returning screenwriter, Steven Kloves.
Most of the major cast and crew from Philosopher's Stone (also known as Sorcerer's Stone) returned for Chamber of Secrets, including child stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint and director Chris Columbus. However, it was the last appearance by Richard Harris as Dumbledore and currently the last Harry Potter film directed by Columbus. New key actors included Kenneth Branagh as Lockhart and Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy. It remains the only film in the franchise that has not been nominated for an Academy Award.
The film was very well received at the box office making $879 million USD worldwide.
Story and Plot Point
The film opens with Harry Potter and his caged owl Hedwig staying with the Dursleys on summer break. An elf named Dobby appears in Harry’s room and warns Harry not to return to Hogwarts this fall because of terrible danger. Dobby’s disruptions result in Uncle Vernon locking Harry in his room until Harry is rescued by the Weasley brothers. Harry and Hedwig escape in the Weasleys’ flying car, and Harry finishes summer vacation at the Weasleys’ home, the Burrow. After buying their new schoolbooks, Harry and the Weasleys go to train station Platform 9 3/4, but the gateway closes on Ron and Harry before they can board the Hogwarts express. Harry and Ron use the flying car to get to Hogwarts, but the car breaks down and crashes into the sentient, angry willow tree on the school’s grounds.
New professor and celebrity wizard author Gilderoy Lockhart (Kenneth Branagh) now teaches at Hogwarts. Harry resumes quidditch practice with team Gryffindor. This year, Slytherin’s seeker is Harry’s rival Draco Malfoy, who sports a Nimbus 2001 broomstick. The ominous Chamber of Secrets (secretly located beneath the sink in the ladies’ restroom) has opened, and Professor McGonagall reveals to the students how Hogwarts' founder Salazar Slytherin built the chamber long ago. Salazar disliked muggles (non-wizard humans) and muggleborn wizards, and emerges as something of a racial supremacist. Salazar had sealed the chamber until his heir had returned to school. Professor McGonagall also reveals that the chamber is guarded by a monster.
Harry and Ron temporarily take on the form of Crabbe and Goyle to gain information from Draco Malfoy. Meanwhile, the same potion turns Hermione into a large cat, and she is unable to turn back. The inevitable Quidditch match between Slytherin and Gryffindor results in a Gryffindor victory after Harry captures the snitch , but is attacked by a rogue bludger that breaks his arm. The pompous Professor Lockhart tries to heal Harry's arm, but instead removes Harry’s arm bones. Harry's arm recovers quickly.
Odd events occur: a Muggle-born student is petrified, and young Ginny Weasley starts losing her memory. Hagrid is arrested and sent to Azkaban prison for harboring Aragog, a giant spider mistakenly thought to be the Chamber monster, and Dumbledore is removed as headmaster in the wake of all the problems. A girls’ restroom ghost named Moaning Myrtle, an original victim of the Chamber of Secrets, provides Harry and Ron with Tom Marvolo Riddle’s talking diary.
One evening, Harry and Ron are called to the hospital wing. Upon their arrival, they are directed to Hermione's bed, when they reach her, she is petrified, shocking Harry and Ron. With Hermione's petrification, leaving Ron and Harry feeling terrible for what occurred, she is unable to help the two boys. This leaves them both with the task themselves to solve the cause of events that are threatening to close Hogwarts, and have to ultimately save all those that have fallen victim to petrification.
The massive spider Aragog aids Harry and Ron in learning that the chamber is guarded by a monstrous snake called a basilisk, which kills with its gaze. Harry and Ron learn that Professor Lockhart is not the great wizard he has appeared to be, and deceives people using a memory charm. After Ginny Weasley is taking into the Chamber of Secrets, with a message left on the wall that "her skeleton will lie in the Chamber forever", Harry, Ron, and Lockhart enter the ladies room to rescue Ginny from the Chamber under the sink. Harry descends a long tunnel, and with aid from the Sorting Hat and Dumbledore’s Phoenix bird, Harry battles the Basilisk and Tom Marvolo Riddle. Riddle’s name is an anagram for “I am Lord Voldemort,” and Riddle is, in fact, the sixteen-year-old soul of Lord Voldemort, preserved in the diary. Harry kills the Basilisk with Godric Gryffindor's Sword and defeats Riddle by destroying the diary, rescuing Ginny in the process.
The petrified students and Hermione are cured. Hagrid is freed from Azkaban, elf Dobby is freed from service to the Malfoys, and Dumbledore is restored as Hogwarts’ headmaster. The film ends with Hogwarts lit up from the Great Hall.
Cast and characters
Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter: Now entering his second year at Hogwarts, Harry faces the accusation that he is the Heir of Slytherin, and responsible for the attacks on fellow students.
Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley: One of Harry's best friends. He takes his father's flying car to Hogwarts, after he and Harry miss the Hogwarts Express.
Emma Watson as Hermione Granger: One of Harry's best friends. She investigates what is really the cause of the attacks on students, only to be petrified herself.
Richard Harris as Albus Dumbledore: The Hogwarts headmaster and one of the greatest wizards of the age. He is removed from his position as the attacks increase.
Kenneth Branagh as Gilderoy Lockhart: The incredibly vain and famous Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. He is secretly completely useless, and faked all of his achievements.
Christian Coulson as Tom Marvolo Riddle: The memory of a young Lord Voldemort, imprinted into his old diary.
Bonnie Wright as Ginny Weasley: Ron's younger sister, who becomes possessed by Riddle's diary. She opens the Chamber of Secrets, under his control.
Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid: The Hogwarts groundkeeper, who is initially blamed for the attacks and sent to Azkaban. Martin Bayfield plays him in the flashback scene.
Maggie Smith as Minerva McGonagall: The Hogwarts deputy headmistress.
Alan Rickman as Severus Snape: The Hogwarts potions master.
Tom Felton as Draco Malfoy: Harry's enemy, who the trio believe to actually be the Heir of Slytherin.
Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy: Draco's father, and a former Death Eater.
Shirley Henderson as Moaning Myrtle: The ghost of a Hogwarts student killed by the Basilisk years ago.
Toby Jones as the voice of Dobby: The Malfoy's house elf, who goes behind the family's back to help Harry during the course of the year.
Robert Hardy as Cornelius Fudge: The Minister for Magic.
Julian Glover as the voice of Aragog: A giant Acromantula that lives the forest and is owned by Hagrid.
Miriam Margolyes as Pomona Sprout: The Hogwarts Herbology teacher, who creates a cure for those who are petrified.
Julie Walters and Mark Williams as Molly Weasley and Arthur Weasley: Ron's parents.
Richard Griffiths and Fiona Shaw as Vernon and Petunia Dursley: Harry's uncaring aunt and uncle.
Harry Melling as Dudley Dursley: Harry's overweight cousin.
Hugh Mitchell as Colin Creevey: A Muggle-born student who idolizes Harry.
Production
Production for Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets began on November 19, 2001, just three days after the widespread release of the first Harry Potter film. It was shot on location on the Isle of Man, in several places in Great Britain, and at Leavesden Film Studios in London. Filming finished in the summer of 2002.
Hugh Grant accepted the role of Gilderoy Lockhart, reportedly dyeing his hair blonde, but due to a scheduling conflict he had to drop out. On October 25, 2001, Kenneth Branagh was selected as Grant's replacement.
Marketing
The film's soundtrack was released on November 12, 2002. The film's scores were composed by John Williams, with some new material written by composer William Ross from adaptations of Williams' score, when he was unavailable due to time constraints. The soundtrack was conducted by William Ross. A video game based on the film was released in 2002.
Differences from the book
Very few plotlines are entirely absent from the film adaptation, although some are condensed on account of time considerations. Many of the more truncated themes were originally written in a more comprehensive form, but did not make the final cut. Many of these are included on the DVD edition as deleted scenes, including the Malfoys in Borgin and Burkes, several discussions about Harry being the heir of Slytherin, and the fight between Arthur Weasley and Lucius Malfoy in Flourish and Blotts.
The only significant deviation from the literary canon is in the effects of the Polyjuice Potion. In the book, the Potion causes the drinker to assume the exact appearance of the target, including their voice and any disabilities (such as poor eyesight). In the film adaptation, while the potion alters Harry and Ron's appearance, their voices were left unchanged to reduce confusion. This alteration is retconned in subsequent Harry Potter films – in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire Barty Crouch Jr, under the influence of the potion, perfectly assumes the voice of Alastor Moody.
A few characters were removed from the script and their lines reassigned to other characters. In particular, the ghost Professor Binns is absent from the film, so his expository scene about the Chamber of Secrets is instead given by Professor McGonnagall. Peeves is also absent from the film, as in all the other film adaptations.
Reaction
Critical reception
Reviews were generally positive, it holds an 82% "Certified Fresh" rating at Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 63 out of 100 at Metacritic representing "generally favorable reviews". Roger Ebert called The Chamber of Secrets "a phenomenal film" and gave the film 4 out of 4 stars, especially praising the set design. Entertainment Weekly commended the film for being better and darker than its predecessor: "And among the things this Harry Potter does very well indeed is deepen the darker, more frightening atmosphere for audiences. This is as it should be: Harry's story is supposed to get darker". Richard Roeper praised the directing and the films faithfulness to the book, saying: "Chris Columbus, the director, does a real wonderful job of being faithful to the story but also taking it into a cinematic era". Variety called the film "a bit overlong", but praised the film for being darker and more dramatic than The Philosopher's Stone: "it possesses a confidence and intermittent flair that begin to give it a life of its own apart of the literary franchise, something the initial picture never achieved". Dana Stevens from The New York Times said: "instead of feeling stirred you may feel battered and worn down, but not, in the end, too terribly disappointed".
Some negative criticism came from Peter Travers from The Rolling Stone condeming the film for being overlong and too faithful to the book: "Once again, director Chris Columbus takes a hat-in-hand approach to Rowling that stifles creativity and allows the film to drag on for nearly three hours". Kenneth Turan from The Los Angeles Times called the film "a cliche" and noted: "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets is deja vu all over again, it's likely that whatever you thought of the first production -- pro or con -- you'll likely think of this one".
Box office performance
The film Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets premiered in the UK on November 3, 2002 and in USA on November 14, 2002 before its widespread release on November 15, one year after the Philosopher's Stone film (November 16, 2001). The film broke multiple records upon its opening all over the world. In the U.S. the film opened to an $88.4 million opening weekend, third biggest all-tme at the time, behind only Spider-Man and its predecessor Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. In the United Kingdom the film broke all opening records that were previously held by The Philosopher's Stone. It made £18.9 million during its opening including previews and £10.9 million excluding previews, both extraordinary records.[ It went on to make £54.8 million in the U.K., the fifth biggest tally of all time at the time.
The film made a total of $879 million worldwide, which made it the fifth highest-grossing film ever at the time. It was the second highest grossing film of 2002 behind The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers worldwide. However, it was the number one film of the year at the non-American box office making about $617 million compared to The Two Towers' $584.5 million. To this day it remains as one of the highest grossing films of all time, at number 13.
Awards
On January 14, 2003, Chamber of Secrets won the award for "Best Live Action Family Film" in the Phoenix Film Critics Society Awards. It was nominated for seven Saturn Awards including for "Best Director", "Best Fantasy Film" and "Best Performance by a Younger Actor" for Daniel Radcliffe. The film was nominated for four BAFTA Awards and a Grammy Award for John Williams' score. However, currently it is the only Harry Potter film that was not nominated for any Academy Awards.
14. Finding Nemo (2003)
(Collections: $865,000,000)
Finding Nemo is an Academy Award-winning computer-animated film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released to theaters by Walt Disney Pictures and Buena Vista Distribution. It was released in the United States/Canada on May 30, 2003, in Australia on August 27, 2003 and in the UK on 10 October 2003. The movie is the fifth Disney/Pixar feature film and the first to be released during the summer season
The movie was released on a 2-disc DVD on November 4, 2003 in the United States and Canada, in Australia on January 16, 2004, and the UK on February 27, 2004. It went on to become the best selling DVD of all time, with 28 million copies sold. In 2005, Time magazine listed it as one of the top 100 films ever made.
Story and Plot Point
In Rohan, the Uruk-hai run with Merry and Pippin captive. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli are in pursuit, following three days of running. They realize they are in Rohan, and Legolas surmises the Hobbits are being taken to Isengard. There, Saruman launches his attack on the country, and at the capital city of Edoras, King Théoden is mentally and physically weak because of the enchantments of his steward, Gríma Wormtongue, who was bought into the service of Saruman. Orcs freely roam the land and kill people including the king's only son Théodred. Théoden's nephew Éomer angrily realizes that Gríma has become Saruman's servant and furiously asks what the "promised price" was. When Gríma glances at Éowyn, Éomer angrily attacks him, but is banished for simply undermining his authority.
Frodo and Sam traverse the Dead Marshes, hiding from a newly seated Ringwraith on his Fell beast. They reach the Black Gate, only to have Gollum tell them there is a less risky path south. Merry and Pippin escape their captors due to Éomer's men who kill all the Uruk-hai, who in turn tells Aragorn of the slaughter, and the Three Hunters find their tracks leads into Fangorn forest. There Merry and Pippin meet an old Ent, Treebeard and a White Wizard. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli discover this White Wizard is Gandalf reborn, having sacrificed himself against the Balrog. They travel to Edoras on horseback, where they exorcise Saruman's hold on Théoden and banish Wormtongue. Théoden is confronted with his dead son and open war, and decides to flee to Helm's Deep a large fortification which in times of trouble have saved the people of Rohan. Gandalf rides to find Éomer and his Rohirrim, and Éowyn seeks to know Aragorn better.
In Ithilien, Gollum banishes his split personality, and attempts to befriend Frodo and Sam. They also see a battle and are taken captive by soldiers of Gondor. On the journey to Helms Deep, Aragorn soon has to save the refugees from Saruman's Wargs. During the Melee He is dragged by a one of the wolfs and falls off a cliff, the survivors arrive in Helm's Deep grief-stricken. In Rivendell, Arwen is convinced by Elrond that the age of Elves is ending, and she leaves for the West. Elrond ponders whether the Elves should still help Men. Frodo and Sam arrive at Henneth Annûn and meet Faramir, the younger brother of Boromir, who captures Gollum shortly after to learn of the One Ring. Faramir decides the Ring shall go to Gondor, so that he can "prove his quality" to his father. In Rohan, Aragorn awakens, and as he rides back to Helm's Deep, he sees Saruman's army: at least 10,000 strong. When he arrives, there is dismay, and 300 men, some too old or young, prepare for battle. In the midst of despair, a battalion of Elves from Lórien arrive to help them. At Fangorn forest, Merry, Pippin, Treebeard and other Ents hold a Council to decide on what the Ents involvement will be in the upcoming war with Sauron.
The battle of Helms Deep begins, and the Elves manage to hold the Uruk-hai at the wall, but it is blown up and many are killed during the ensuing attack through the breach. The Uruk-hai also manage to break the Gate despite Aragorn and Gimli's best efforts, and they fall back to the Keep. In Fangorn, Treebeard and the other Ents decide not to fight, but once Pippin takes him to the forest Saruman has decimated near Isengard, he is filled with rage. At Osgiliath, Faramir and the Hobbits are confronted by a Ringwraith. As the gate to the Keep is attacked, Gandalf, Éomer, and hundreds of Rohirrim arrive to push back the Uruk-hai, the Ents attack and flood Isengard and Sam and Faramir save Frodo from the Ringwraith's clutches. Sam narrates about how the story must go on, and Faramir frees them. Gandalf and company now know a full war is coming, and hope only rests with Frodo, who has resumed his journey towards Mordor with Sam and Gollum. After his mistreatment by Faramir's men, Gollum's darker nature returns and he considers betraying Frodo and Sam to "her."
Cast
Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins: Frodo is the Hobbit who must destroy the One Ring. The burden of carrying it is becoming heavier.
Sean Astin as Samwise "Sam" Gamgee: Sam is Frodo's best friend and travelling companion.
Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn: Aragorn is the heir-in-exile to the throne of Gondor, and has come to the defence of Rohan.
Ian McKellen as Gandalf the White: The Wizard who fell fighting the Balrog has now returned, more powerful than ever, to finish his task.
Dominic Monaghan as Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck: Merry is a Hobbit who had been captured by the Uruk-hai, now an ally of Treebeard.
Billy Boyd as Peregrin "Pippin" Took: Pippin is Merry's best friend and travelling companion.
Orlando Bloom as Legolas: Legolas is an Elven archer and Prince of the Wood-elves, who joined the Fellowship after the Council of Elrond.
John Rhys-Davies as Gimli: Gimli son of Glóin is a warrior Dwarf who joined the Fellowship after the Council of Elrond.
and the voice of Treebeard: Leader of the Ents, tree-like giants. He is unaware of Saruman's destruction of the forests.
Andy Serkis provides the voice and performed motion capture for Gollum: Once a Hobbit-like creature named Sméagol, he possessed the Ring centuries ago, but now is leading Frodo on his quest. Secretly he wants the Ring back. He has an internal struggle between the "Sméagol" and "Gollum" aspects of his personality.
Bernard Hill as Théoden: Théoden is King of Rohan, and is healed by Gandalf to lead his country once more.
Miranda Otto as Éowyn: Éowyn is Théoden's niece. In love with Aragorn, she is an adept fighter.
Karl Urban as Éomer: Éomer is Éowyn's older brother. He was Chief Marshal of Rohan, exiled by Gríma Wormtongue, now gathering troops to defend Rohan.
David Wenham as Faramir: Faramir is the leader of the Ithilien Rangers tracking Sauron's troop movements. He captures Frodo, Sam and Gollum.
Christopher Lee as Saruman: The corrupt Wizard waging war upon Rohan and devastating Fangorn Forest. He has allied himself with Sauron.
Brad Dourif as Gríma Wormtongue: Gríma Wormtongue is Saruman's agent at Edoras. He renders Théoden incapable of decisions, and desires Éowyn.
Liv Tyler as Arwen: Arwen is the Half-elf whom Aragorn loves.
Hugo Weaving as Elrond: Elrond is Arwen's father. He expresses doubt over her love for Aragorn.
Cate Blanchett as Galadriel: Galadriel is the Elven Lady of Lothlórien. Elrond communicates with her telepathically about the future of Middle-earth.
John Leigh as Háma: Loyal doorwarden of the Golden Hall and a majordomo of Théoden.
Bruce Hopkins as Gamling: Member of the Royal Guard and the right-hand man of Théoden.
Craig Parker as Haldir of Lórien: Haldir of Lórien leads the Elves sent by Elrond and Galadriel to defend Helm's Deep.
John Bach as Madril: Madril is Faramir's 'right hand' man, who informs him of battle preparations.
The following only appear in the Extended Edition:
Sean Bean as Boromir: Faramir's brother, he died in The Fellowship of the Ring. He appears in Faramir's flashback.
John Noble as Denethor: Denethor is Steward of Gondor and father to Boromir and Faramir.
In the Battle of Helm's Deep, Peter Jackson has a cameo appearance as one of the men on top of the Gate, throwing a spear at the attacking Uruk-hai. His children also cameo as young refugees in the caves behind the Hornburg, and Alan Lee and Dan Hennah also cameo as soldiers preparing for the battle. Daniel Falconer has a cameo as an Elvish archer at the battle.
Comparison from the source material
The Two Towers did not begin as a film: instead parts of it were the conclusion to The Fellowship of the Ring, the first of two planned films under Miramax. However, as the two films became a trilogy under New Line, Jackson, Walsh and Boyens shuffled their scripts. The Two Towers is known as the most difficult of the Rings films to make, due to having neither a clear beginning nor end to focus the script on. Nonetheless, they had a clear decision with making the Battle of Helm's Deep the climax, a decision affecting the whole story's moods and style.
The most notable difference between the book and the film is the structure. Tolkien's The Two Towers is split into two, one following the war in Rohan, the other on Frodo. The film omits the opening of the book, the death of Boromir, which was used for a linear climax at the end of The Fellowship of the Ring. Also, the film climaxes with the Battle of Helm's Deep, whilst the tail ends of the Fellowship going to Isengard and Frodo's confrontation with Shelob were left for The Return of the King. This was done partly to fit more closely the timeline indicated by the book.
One notable change in plotting is that Théoden is literally possessed by Saruman, but in the book he is simply depressed and deluded by Wormtongue. Afterwards, Théoden is still unsure of what to do, and flees to Helm's Deep. In the book he rides out to war, and only ends up besieged when he considers helping Erkenbrand. Erkenbrand does not exist in the films: his character is combined with Éomer as the Rohirrim general who arrives with Gandalf at the film's end. Éomer himself is present during the entire battle in the book.
On the way to Helm's Deep, the refugees from Edoras are attacked by Wargs. The scene is possibly inspired by one in the book cut from The Fellowship of the Ring where it is the Fellowship who battle them. Here, a new subplot is created where Aragorn falls over a cliff, and is assumed to be dead. Jackson added it to create tension. This scene also chimes with a new subplot regarding Arwen, where she decides to leave Middle-earth after losing hope in the long-term possibilities of her love. Arwen's role is primarily in the book's Appendices, and she is never depicted as considering such an act.
A larger change was originally planned. Arwen and Elrond would visit Galadriel, and Arwen would accompany an army of Elves to Helm's Deep, to fight alongside Aragorn. During shooting, the script would change, due to writers coming up with better ideas to show the romance as well as poor fan reaction. The new scene of Arwen leaving for the West was created, and the conversation scene remains, edited to a telepathic one. Nonetheless, one major change remained that couldn't be reverted: the Elven warriors fighting at Helm's Deep. However, Jackson looks upon the change as highly romantic and stirring that the Elves return to fight for the future of Middle-earth.
Another change is the fact Treebeard does not immediately decide to go to war. It adds to the tension and Boyens describes it as making Merry and Pippin more than luggage. Here the Hobbits make Treebeard see the full destruction, prompting anger. Another structural change is that the Hobbits meet Gandalf the White early on, possibly explaining why the Hobbits don't react to his return when they meet him following the destruction of Isengard. This was explained in the book by Gandalf arriving at Isengard in the middle of the night to talk to Treebeard.
The filmmakers' decision to leave Shelob for the third film meant that Faramir had to become an obstacle for Frodo and Sam. In the book, Faramir (like Aragorn) quickly recognizes the Ring as a danger and a temptation, and does not long hesitate before letting Frodo and Sam go. In the film, Faramir first decides that the Ring shall go to Gondor and his father, as a way to prove Faramir's worth compared to Faramir's elder brother, Boromir. In the film, Faramir takes Frodo, Sam and the Ring to the Battle of Osgiliath, to which they do not go in the book. Jackson winks to readers with Sam's line, "By all rights we shouldn't even be here, but we are." After seeing how strongly the Ring affects Frodo during the Nazgûl attack, Faramir changes his mind and lets them go. These changes dilute (or at least reshape) the book's strong contrast between Faramir and Boromir, who in The Fellowship of the Ring attempted to take the Ring for himself. Boyens contends these plot changes were needed to keep the Ring menacing. Wenham himself, despite having not read the book, found the original character "dramatically dead".
Finally, the meaning of the title itself, 'The Two Towers', was changed. While Tolkien considered several possible sets of towers he eventually created a final cover illustration and wrote a note included at the end of The Fellowship of the Ring which identified them as Minas Morgul and Orthanc. Jackson's movie, which does not include Minas Morgul, names them as Orthanc and Barad-dûr, symbolic of an evil alliance out to destroy Men that forms the film's plot point.
Production
Production Design
When Alan Lee joined the project in late 1997, Helm's Deep was the first structure he was tasked to design. At 1:35 scale, it was one of the first miniatures built, and part of the 45 minute video that sold the project to New Line. It was primarily drawn from an illustration Lee had once done for the book, though fellow illustrator and designer John Howe suggested a curved wall. Used in the film for longshots, Jackson also used this miniature to plan the battle with 40,000 toy soldiers.
As a pivotal part of the story, Helm's Deep was built at Dry Creek Quarry with the Gate, a ramp, and a wall with a removable section and the tower on a second level. Most importantly, there was the 1:4 scale miniature of Helm's Deep that ran 50 feet wide. It was used for forced perspective shots, as well as the major explosion sequence.
The film explores the armies of Middle-earth. John Howe was the basic designer of the forces of evil. The Uruk-hai were the first army approved by Jackson, and Howe also designed a special crossbow for the characters, one without the redundancy of opening to reload, the realization of an 18th century manuscript. Also created were 100 Elven suits of armour, with emphasis on Autumnal colours due to the theme of Elves leaving Middle-earth. 250 suits were made for the Rohirrim, which for Bernard Hill, even came with leather inside. Emphasized are horses and the sun, even into their swords, which took 3-6 days to forge.
The Rohirrim's capital of Edoras took six months to build on Mount Sunday, with thatched roofs, but that was simply the exterior: the buildings doubled as offices and lunch halls. The army created a road to the location, whilst the interior was filmed at Stone Street Studios with tapestries designed by Lee, and Théoden's wooden throne created by his daughter. Hill endured heavy make-up for the possession scene where his skin was pulled back and released for increased wrinkles. Dourif shaved off his eyebrows and put potato flakes as dandruff in his hair for unnerving effect.
The film also provides a look at Mordor and Gondor, in terms of Frodo and Sam's story. The Barad-dûr is seen fully in a tracking shot, a design which Howe called a mockery of Gothic Cathedrals. He and Lee fully created the Black Gate, though a typo in the script made the miniature into two. The Rangers and Osgiliath, the ruined city reflecting London during the Blitz. The set on a backlot was based around a bridge and reused some of Moria.
Principal Photography
The Two Towers shared principal photography with The Fellowship of the Ring and The Return of the King between October 11 1999 to December 22 2000. Scenes in Rohan were shot early on, and Viggo Mortensen, Orlando Bloom and John Rhys-Davies' scale double Brett sustained many injuries. Mortensen broke his toe when he kicked an Orc helmet when he found the remains of the Uruk-hai and believes Merry and Pippin to be dead; this take is the one in the finished film. Bloom fell off his horse and broke his rib, whilst Brett dislocated his knee. All three spent two days of pain for the running sequence with these injuries.
Afterwards, they went on for three months filming the Battle of Helm's Deep. John Mahaffie handled most of the night shoots. Mortensen got his tooth knocked out during the nightshoots, and Bernard Hill also got his ear slashed. Nonetheless, the 700 extras had fun, insulting each other in Māoli and improvising scenes, such as the Uruk-hai stamping their spears before the battle begins. They did get annoyed by the craftsmanship of the Art Department: the Gates were too reinforced for the Battering Ram scene. Mortensen greatly respected the stunt team, and head butting them became a sign of respect.
Wood and Astin were joined by Serkis on April 13, 2000.
Special Effects
For The Two Towers, Weta Digital doubled their staff of 260. In total, they would produce 73 minutes of digital effects with 799 shots. The film would feature their first challenge in creating a battle scene, as well as creating two digital characters who needed to act rather than be a set piece, unlike the previous film's Cave Troll and Balrog.
Gollum
Weta began animating Gollum in late 1998 to convince New Line they could achieve the effect. Andy Serkis "played" Gollum by providing his voice and movements on set, as well as performing within the motion capture suit later on. His scenes were filmed twice, with and without him. Originally Gollum was set to solely be a CG character, but Jackson was so impressed by Andy Serkis' audition tape that they used him on set as well.
Gollum's CG model was also redesigned during 2001 when Serkis was cast as Sméagol, Gollum's form before he is cursed by the One Ring, so as to give the impression Andy Serkis as Sméagol transforms into the CG Gollum. The original model can still be glimpsed briefly in the first film. So over Christmas 2001 the crew proceeded to reanimate all the previous shots accordingly within two months. Another problem was that the crew realized that the cast performed better in the versions of the film with Serkis. In the end, the CG Gollum was rotoscoped and animated on top of these scenes. Sometimes due to Gollum not being human, they fully animated some shots such as him crawling upside down. Serkis's motion capture animated the body whilst animators did the head. Gino Acevedo supervised realistic skin tones, which took four hours per frame to render.
Treebeard
Treebeard took twenty-eight hours per frame to render. For scenes where he interacts with Merry and Pippin, a fourteen-foot-tall puppet was built on a wheel. Weta took urethane moulds of tree bark and applied them to the sculpt of Treebeard to create his skin. The puppet was shot against bluescreen.
Score
The musical score for The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers was composed, orchestrated, and conducted by Howard Shore, who also composed the music for the other two films in the trilogy. While the scores for its prequel and sequel won the Oscar for Best Score, the soundtrack for The Two Towers was not even nominated. (Initially there was confusion over the score's eligibility due to a new rule applying to sequels, but the Academy did declare it eligible.)
The funeral song Éowyn sings during her cousin Théodred's entombment in the Extended Edition is styled to be a traditional song of the Rohirrim, and has lyrics in their language, Rohirric (represented by Old English). The song does not appear in the book, and the tune is a variation upon a theme of the rímur Icelandic folk tradition; it can be heard as part of track 7 in the 1999 recording of a musical version of the Edda by Sequentia.
The soundtrack was recorded at Abbey Road. The soundtrack has a picture of Peter Jackson (barefoot), the composer, and two producers crossing Abbey Road, referencing the Beatles album of the same name..
Reception
Critics
On the reviewer aggregate website Rotten Tomatoes, the film has the most positive reception of the trilogy with a 97% fresh rating. The Battle of Helm's Deep has been named as one of the greatest screen battles of all time, while Gollum was named as the third most convincing computer generated film character by Entertainment Weekly in 2007.
Awards
Academy Awards
Winner: Visual Effects, Sound Editing.
Nominee: Best Picture, Best Art Direction - Set Decoration, Best Editing, and Best Sound.
American Film Institute: Digital Effects, Production Design, Movie of the Year
British Academy Film Awards: Best Costume Design, Best Special Visual Effects, Orange Film of the Year (voted on by the public)
Empire Awards: Best Picture
Hugo Award (World Science Fiction Society): Best Dramatic Presentation - Long Form
MTV Movie Awards 2003: Best virtual performance (Gollum)
Saturn Awards: Best Fantasy Film, Best Costume (Ngila Dickson), Best Supporting Actor (Andy Serkis)
DVD release
The theatrical edition of the movie was released on DVD on August 26, 2003. The DVD was a 2-disc set with extras on the second disc. This was intended to be a simultaneous worldwide release, but some British stores began selling the DVDs on Friday August 22 because it was a Bank Holiday weekend, much to the ire of the film's UK distributor, which had threatened to withhold advance supplies of subsequent DVD releases.
The Two Towers followed the precedent set by its predecessor by releasing an Extended Edition (223 minutes) with new editing, and added special effects and music. This version was released on DVD November 19, 2003 along with four commentaries and hours of supplementary material. There is also a "Collectors Edition" DVD package containing the 4-disc set, a sculpture of Gollum, a booklet about the process of designing Gollum for the movie and a short DVD documentary on the process of designing collectible sculptures based on the movies' characters and artefacts. The original cut lasted 2:59. The extended edition lasts 3:43. There is also an Easter Egg on the film, found by going to the Scene Selection screen, selecting the last group of scenes, and pressing down until a gold ring icon appears next to the words "new scene". It shows Gollum's (very foul-mouthed) acceptance speech after winning the MTV Movie Award for Best Virtual Performance.
On August 29, 2006, a Limited Edition of The Two Towers was released. This Limited Edition contains two discs. The first is a two-sided DVD (also known as DVD-18) that contains both the Theatrical and Extended editions of the film. At the beginning of each side of the disc, the viewer can choose which version to watch. The second disc is a bonus disc that contains a new behind-the-scenes documentary.
In December, 2003 there were also limited back-to-back theatrical releases of the extended versions of The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers, followed by premieres of The Return of the King — in all 11 hours and 32 minutes long.
Additional scenes
The opening is extended. After Frodo wakes up, there is a scene of Frodo and Sam descending a cliff with the help of the Elvish rope. The title now appears over a panoramic shot of the hills. There is a brief shot of Frodo and Sam huddled under their cloaks during a rain storm, with Gollum following. After his taming, Gollum debates whether to take the hobbits to Mordor or not.
Merry and Pippin have more scenes. It is made clear that there are two groups of orcs, one from Mordor and the other from Isengard, setting up the eventual fight. It is also made clearer they think they have the Ring. When Merry and Pippin meet Treebeard, he takes them to his home, and recites poetry that puts the hobbits to sleep. They also learn more of Entish culture, drinking a draught that makes them grow taller, are rescued from a rogue tree (echoing their encounter with Tom Bombadil and Old Man Willow in the original The Fellowship of the Ring) and learn of the Entwives, and just how slow they are at the Entmoot.
Gandalf's reappearance is longer, identifying himself as what Saruman might have been. Legolas notes that the Elves taught the trees to talk and Gandalf predicts that Merry and Pippin will rouse the Ents. During the ride to Édoras, they camp for the night, and Gandalf and Aragorn discuss the coming war and Frodo's quest.
There is more drama within Edoras. Éomer has some more scenes, such as finding Théodred at the Fords of Isen and bringing him back to Édoras. When he is banished, he is presented by Wormtongue with a banishment order signed by King Théoden. There is a brief funeral scene for Théodred which includes Éowyn singing. Later, after Aragorn stops Théoden from killing Wormtongue, he extends his hand to Gríma. Gríma spits on it and then runs off. This leads to a later scene with Saruman where he scoffs at Isildur's Heir. Another new scene has Aragorn calming Théodred's horse Brego and turning him loose, setting up his rescue later on. During the exodus, Théoden tells Aragorn about Éowyn. She serves Aragorn a dubious-looking stew during the trip, he graciously manages to swallow a spoonful, and he tells her his remarkable age (87).
Faramir has more scenes. There is extra dialogue when he captures Sam and Frodo, emphasizing his dislike of war. When Frodo and Sam are brought to Henneth Annûn, they are told that Boromir's cloven horn was found. Faramir then remembers seeing Boromir's funeral boat passing him on the river. This leads to an extended flashback of Boromir and Faramir reclaiming Osgiliath from Mordor. Denethor (their father) expresses his disappointment with Faramir and then sends Boromir to Rivendell to claim the Ring. Faramir's men also beat up Gollum after catching him. One visual that was added was Minas Tirith in the background as the Rangers see Osgiliath burn, not present in the theatrical cut due to potential confusion over whether it was Helm's Deep.
The ending of the film is extended. After Treebeard discovers the destroyed part of the forest and sounds the alarm, thousands of Huorns depart to join the battle at Helm's Deep. When the Uruks retreat, they find a "forest" waiting to destroy them. The Uruk-hai-killing contest between Gimli and Legolas is settled, with Gimli the winner. After the destruction of Isengard, Merry and Pippin discover a rich larder of food, including a supply of pipeweed. Faramir shows Frodo and Sam a way out of the city, and realizes that Gollum's secret route is Cirith Ungol and advises Frodo not to take it, threatening Gollum and setting up the eventual betrayal.
9. Jurassic Park (1993)
(Collections: $919,700,000)
Jurassic Park is a 1993 science fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg, based on the novel of the same name by Michael Crichton. The film centers on the island of Isla Nublar, where scientists have created an amusement park of cloned dinosaurs. John Hammond (Richard Attenborough) invites a group of scientists, played by Sam Neill, Jeff Goldblum and Laura Dern, to visit the park. Sabotage sets the dinosaurs on the loose, and technicians and visitors attempt to escape the island.Development of the film began before the novel was even published, and Crichton was hired to contribute to a script that cut much of its story. Spielberg hired Stan Winston Studios's puppets and worked with Industrial Light and Magic to develop cutting-edge computer-generated imagery to portray the dinosaurs. Jurassic Park was well received by critics, although they criticized the characterization. During its release, the film grossed more than $914 million, becoming the most successful film yet released, and it is currently the tenth-highest grossing feature film, significantly inspiring a new breed of films that primarily used CGI for special effects. Jurassic Park was the first film in the Jurassic Park franchise, followed by The Lost World: Jurassic Park in 1997 and by Jurassic Park III in 2001, with Jurassic Park IV in development.
Story and Plot Point
On Isla Nublar, an InGen employee is killed while releasing a Velociraptor into a specially built enclosure, prompting a lawsuit from his family. CEO John Hammond is pressured by his investors to allow a safety investigation by experts before opening the park. He invites paleontologist Alan Grant, paleobotanist Ellie Sattler, chaos theorist Dr. Ian Malcolm and his investors' attorney Donald Gennaro, to perform the inspection. The group meets a Brachiosaurus when they set out into the park. At the park, they learn that InGen recreated the dinosaurs by cloning genetic material found in mosquitoes that fed on dinosaur blood, preserved in Dominican amber. The DNA from these samples was spliced with DNA from frogs to fill in gaps: during this process, the dinosaurs are bred as females to control the population. The team is also shown the Velociraptor enclosure seen at the beginning of the film, which contains the ferocious and intelligent adults.
Malcolm and Sattler are concerned, but Grant remains neutral. They meet Hammond's grandchildren, Alexis and Tim Murphy, and go on a vehicular tour of the park. Ellie leaves the tour to take care of a sick Triceratops. A tropical storm hits the island and most InGen employees leave, except for Hammond, game warden Robert Muldoon, chief engineer Ray Arnold, and lead computer programmer Dennis Nedry. Commissioned by rival businessman Lewis Dodgson, Nedry takes an opportunity to shut down the park's security system so he can steal dinosaur embryos and deliver them to an auxiliary dock. Soon, a Tyrannosaurus breaks through the electric fence surrounding its pen, killing Gennaro, wounding Malcolm, and then attacking Tim and Lex hiding in the car. The children and Grant only narrowly avoid being killed and eaten. Meanwhile, Ellie and Muldoon rescue Malcolm and are almost caught by the T. rex during an intense chase. Nedry crashes his car and after trying to fix it is killed by a Dilophosaurus. Grant, Tim, and Lex spend the night in a tree and while hiking to safety the next morning discover some of the dinosaurs are actually breeding. Grant realizes that the frog DNA is responsible, as some species of frog are known to spontaneously change gender in a single-sex environment.
Arnold tries to hack Nedry’s computer to turn the power back on and fails, so he does a full system restart, which requires the circuit breakers to be manually reset from the utility shed. When he fails to return, Ellie and Muldoon follow and discover the Raptors have escaped. Muldoon tells Ellie to go to the utility shed herself and turn the power back on while he hunts the Raptors that have been stalking them. Muldoon is attacked and killed by a lurking Raptor while Ellie escapes from another after discovering Arnold's remains. After managing to turn on the power and escaping the Raptor, she meets up with Grant. They both go back to Malcolm and Hammond, and Grant grabs a shotgun after learning that two Raptors have escaped their pen and a third has been contained. Lex and Tim narrowly escape two of the Raptors in the kitchen, and Lex is finally able to restore the Park's computer systems in order to call Hammond to request a helicopter rescue of the survivors. Grant and Ellie hold off a Raptor trying to open the door to the computer room, until the power is restored and the electromagnetic locks begin working. With the door secure, the team climbs up into the ceiling crawlspace and arrive at the Visitors Center skeleton display. After a scuffle on top of the fossil exhibits where the Raptors block their escape route, help comes from an unlikely source when the Tyrannosaurus suddenly appears and kills both Raptors; unintentionally saving Grant, Ellie, Lex and Tim in the process. Grant, Ellie, Lex and Tim climb into Hammond and Malcolm's jeep and leave. Grant says he will not endorse the park, a choice with which Hammond concurs. Flying away in the helicopter, the children fall asleep beside Grant, who contemplatively watches the birds flying nearby, the surviving relatives of the dinosaurs they escaped.
Cast
Sam Neill as Dr. Alan Grant: A paleontologist excavating Velociraptor fossils in the Montana Badlands. He dislikes children, frightening one with a talon of a raptor, but he soon has to protect Hammond's grandchildren. Neill was Spielberg's original choice, but was busy. Spielberg then met Richard Dreyfuss and Kurt Russell, who were too expensive, and William Hurt turned down the role. Spielberg then pushed back filming a month to let Neill play the character: he wound up only having a weekend's break between filming Family Pictures and Jurassic Park. Neill prepared for the role by meeting Jack Horner.
Laura Dern as Dr. Ellie Sattler: A paleobotanist and Grant's girlfriend. Dern also met Horner and visited the Los Angeles Natural History Museum, learning to prepare a fossil.
Jeff Goldblum as Dr. Ian Malcolm: A mathematician and chaos theorist. He forewarns the danger of resurrecting dinosaurs and becomes Hammond's main opposition. He also falls for Sattler, another in a long line of romantic interests. Goldblum was Spielberg's first choice, and is a big fan of dinosaurs. To prepare for his role, Goldblum met with James Gleick and Ivar Ekeland to discuss Chaos Theory.
Richard Attenborough as John Hammond: CEO of InGen and architect of Jurassic Park. Jurassic Park was Attenborough's first acting role since 1979's The Human Factor.
Ariana Richards as Alexis "Lex" Murphy: Hammond's granddaughter, a vegetarian and self-professed computer hacker.
Joseph Mazzello as Timothy "Tim" Murphy: Lex's younger brother, into dinosaurs. He has read Grant's numerous books.
Wayne Knight as Dennis Nedry: The disgruntled architect of Jurassic Park's computer systems. He is bribed by Biosyn agent Lewis Dodgson for $1.5 million to deliver frozen dinosaur embryos.
Samuel L. Jackson as Ray Arnold: The park's chief engineer. He switches off the main power to reboot the mainframe — but unwittingly unleashes the raptors in doing so.
Bob Peck as Robert Muldoon: The park's game warden. He is concerned by the intelligence of the raptors, and would have them all destroyed.
Martin Ferrero as Donald Gennaro: A lawyer who represents Hammond's concerned investors.
B. D. Wong as Dr. Henry Wu: The park's chief geneticist, who is responsible for making all the dinosaurs female and lysine deficient. He leaves during the storm.
Gerald R. Molen, the film's producer, cameoed as Gerry Harding: The park's veterinarian, who appears to take care of the Triceratops.
Cameron Thor as Lewis Dodgson: The head of InGen's rival corporation Biosyn in the novel. He only appears in the film to give Nedry a shaving cream can to put stolen embryos in before he goes to Jurassic Park.
Dean Cundey, the film's cinematographer, cameoed as the Dockworker who Nedry talks to on the computer.
Richard Kiley as himself, supplying the voice of the car tour guide.
Production
Michael Crichton originally conceived a screenplay about a graduate student who recreates a dinosaur; he continued to wrestle with his fascination with dinosaurs and cloning until he began writing the novel Jurassic Park. Spielberg learned of the novel in October 1989 while he and Crichton were discussing a screenplay that would become the TV series ER. Before the book was published, Crichton put up a non-negotiable fee for $1.5 million as well as a substantial percentage of the gross. Warner Bros. and Tim Burton, Columbia Tristar and Richard Donner, and 20th Century Fox and Joe Dante bid for the rights, but Universal eventually acquired them in May 1990 for Spielberg. Universal further paid Crichton $500,000 to adapt his own novel, which he finished by the time Spielberg was filming Hook. Crichton noted that, because the book was "fairly long", his script only had about 10–20 percent of the content; scenes were dropped for budgetary and practical reasons. After completing Hook, Spielberg wanted to film Schindler's List. MCA president Sid Sheinberg greenlit the film on one condition: that Spielberg make Jurassic Park first. Spielberg later said, "He knew that once I had directed Schindler I wouldn't be able to do Jurassic Park".
Spielberg hired Stan Winston to create the animatronic dinosaurs, Phil Tippett to create go motion dinosaurs for longshots, and Michael Lantieri and Dennis Muren to supervise the on-set effects and digital compositing respectively. Paleontologist Jack Horner supervised the designs, to help commit to Spielberg's desire of portraying the dinosaurs as animals rather than monsters. Horner dismissed the raptors' flicking tongues in Tippett's early animatics, complaining, "[The dinosaurs] have no way of doing that!" Based on Horner's complaint, Spielberg insisted that Tippett take the tongues out. Winston's department created fully detailed models of the dinosaurs, before molding latex skins, which were folded over onto complex robotics. Tippett created stop-motion animatics of major scenes, but, despite go-motion's attempts at motion blurs, Spielberg still found the end results unsatisfactory in terms of working in a live-action feature film. Animators Mark Dippe and Steve Williams went ahead in creating a computer generated walk cycle for the T. rex skeleton and were approved to do more. When Spielberg and Tippett saw an animatic of the T. rex chasing a herd of Gallimimus, Spielberg said, "You're out of a job," to which Tippett replied, "Don't you mean extinct?" Spielberg later wrote both the animatic and his dialogue between him and Tippett into the script.
Malia Scotch Marmo began a script rewrite in October 1991 over a five month period, merging Ian Malcolm with Alan Grant. Screenwriter David Koepp came on board afterward, starting afresh from Marmo's draft, and used Spielberg's idea of a cartoon shown to the visitors to remove much of the exposition that fills Crichton's novel. Spielberg also excised a sub-plot of Procompsognathus escaping to the mainland and attacking young children, as he found it too horrific. This subplot would eventually be used as a prologue in the Spielberg-directed sequel, 'The Lost World'. In terms of characterization, Hammond was changed from a ruthless businessman to a kindly old man, as Spielberg admitted he identified with Hammond's obsession with showmanship. He also switched the characters of Tim and Lex; in the book, Tim is aged 11 and into computers, and Lex is only seven or eight and into sports. Spielberg did this because he wanted to work with Joseph Mazello, and it also allowed him to introduce the subplot of Lex's adolescent crush on Grant. Koepp changed Grant's relationship with the children, making him hostile to them initially to allow for more character development. Koepp also took the opportunity to cut out a major sequence from the book where the T. rex chases Grant and the children down a river before being tranquilized by Muldoon for budget reasons.
After two years and one month of pre-production, filming began on August 24, 1992 on the Hawaiian island of Kauaʻi. The three week shoot involved various daytime exteriors. On September 11, Hurricane Iniki passed directly over Kauaʻi, which caused the crew to lose a day of shooting. The scheduled shoot of the Gallimimus chase was moved to Oahu. The crew moved back to the mainland U.S.A., to shoot at Universal Studios's Stage 24, for scenes involving the raptors in the kitchen. The crew also shot on Stage 23 for the scenes involving the power supply before going on location to Red Rock Canyon for the Montana dig scenes. The crew returned to Universal to shoot Grant's rescue of Tim, using a fifty-foot prop with hydraulic wheels for the car fall, and the Brachiosaurus encounter. The crew proceeded to film scenes for the Park's labs and control room, which used animations for the computers loaned from Silicon Graphics and Apple In. This can be seen in the film as Nedry talks to the dockworker, a supposedly live conversation which is clearly a video file due to the visible playback bar. The crew moved to Warner Bros. Studios' Stage 16 to shoot the T. rex attack on the tour cars. Shooting proved frustrating due to water soaking the foam rubber skin of the animatronic dinosaur. Back at Universal, the crew filmed scenes with the Dilophosaurus on Stage 27. Finally, the shoot finished on Stage 12, with the climactic chases with the raptors in the Park's computer rooms and Visitor's Center. Spielberg brought back the T. rex for the climax, nixing his original ending of Grant using a platform machine to maneuver a raptor into a fossil tyrannosaur's jaws. The film wrapped twelve days ahead of schedule on November 30, and within days Michael Kahn had a rough cut ready, allowing Spielberg to go ahead with filming Schindler's List.
Special effects work continued on the film, with Tippett's unit adjusting to new technology with Dinosaur Input Devices: models which fed information into the computers to allow themselves to animate the characters traditionally. In addition, they acted out scenes with the raptors and Gallimimus. As well as the computer generated dinosaurs, ILM also created elements such as water splashing and digital face replacement for Ariana Richard's stunt double. Spielberg monitored their progress from Poland. Composer John Williams began work on the score at the end of February, and it was conducted a month later by John Neufeld and Alexander Courage. The sound effects crew, supervised by George Lucas, were finished by the end of April. Jurassic Park was finally completed on May 28, 1993.
Dinosaurs on screen
Despite the title of the film, most of the dinosaurs featured did not exist until the Cretaceous period.
Tyrannosaurus, informally dubbed "T. Rex", is the star of the film according to Spielberg, being the reason he rewrote the ending for fear of disappointing the audience. Winston's rex animatronic stood 20 feet, weighed 13,000 pounds, and was 40 feet long. Jack Horner called it "the closest I've ever been to a live dinosaur". The dinosaur is depicted with a vision based on movement. The rex's roar is a baby elephant mixed with a tiger and an alligator and its breath is a whale's blowhole. A dog attacking a ball was used for the sounds of it tearing a Gallimimus apart.
Velociraptor, dubbed 'raptors' in the film, also have a major role, although those depicted are not based on the actual species in question, which is significantly smaller. It was instead based on its larger relative, Deinonychus, which was at the time called Velociraptor antirrhopus by some scientists. Crichton followed this theory, but by the time production of the film took place, the idea had been dropped. When the similar Utahraptor was discovered before the film's release, Stan Winston joked, "We made it, then they discovered it." For the attack on Robert Muldoon, the raptors were played by men in suits. Dolphin screams, walrus bellowing, geese hissing, an African crane's mating call and human rasps were mixed to form various raptor sounds. Following discoveries made after the film's release, most paleontologists have concluded that dromaeosaurs like Velociraptor and Deinonychus had feathers.
Dilophosaurus was also very different from its real life counterpart, made significantly smaller to make sure audiences did not confuse it with the raptors. Its frill and its ability to spit poisonous fluid are fictitious. Its vocal sounds were made by combining a swan, a hawk, a howler monkey, and a rattlesnake together.
Brachiosaurus is inaccurately depicted as chewing its food as well as standing up on its hind legs to browse among the high tree branches. Despite scientific evidence of them having limited vocal capabilities, sound designer Gary Rydstrom decided to represent them with whale songs and donkey calls to give them a melodic sense of wonder.
Triceratops has an extended cameo. Its appearance was a particular logistical nightmare for Stan Winston when Spielberg requested to shoot the animatronic of the sick creature earlier than expected. Winston also created a baby Triceratops for Ariana Richards to ride, which was cut from the film for pacing reasons.
Gallimimus' and Parasaurolophus' roles are mainly cameos, the latter appearing in the first encounter with the Brachiosaurus.
Release
Universal spent $65 million on the marketing campaign for Jurassic Park, making deals with 100 companies to market 1000 products. These included three Jurassic Park video games by SEGA and Ocean Software, a toy line by Kenner that was distributed by Hasbro, and a novelization aimed at young children. The released soundtrack included unused material. Trailers for the film only gave fleeting glimpses of the dinosaurs, a tactic journalist Josh Horowitz described as "that old Spielberg axiom of never revealing too much" when Spielberg and director Michael Bay did the same for their production of Transformers in 2007. The film was marketed with the tagline "An Adventure 65 Million Years In The Making", which was an on-set joke of Spielberg's regarding the genuine mosquito in amber used for Hammond's walking stick.
The film had its premiere at the National Building Museum on June 9, 1993 in Washington D.C., in support of two children's charities. The film made its VHS debut on October 4, 1994, and was first released on DVD on October 10, 2000. The film was also released in a package with The Lost World: Jurassic Park. The DVD has also been re-released with both sequels on December 11, 2001, as the Jurassic Park Trilogy and as the Jurassic Park Adventure Pack on November 29, 2005.
Following the film's release, a travelling exhibition began. Steve Englehart wrote a series of comic books published by Topps Comics. They acted as a continuation of the film, consisting of the two issue Raptor, and Raptors Attack, Raptors Hijack and Return to Jurassic Park, which were four issues each. Return to Jurassic Park was to continue for another four issues but was canceled. All published issues were republished under the single title Jurassic Park Adventures in the U.S.A., and as Jurassic Park in the U.K. Ocean Software released a game sequel entitled Jurassic Park Part 2: The Chaos Continues in 1994 on Super NES and Game Boy.
The Jurassic Park Ride began development in November 1990 and premiered at Universal Studios Hollywood on June 15, 1996 to the cost of $110 million. Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida has an entire section of the park dedicated to Jurassic Park which includes the main ride, here christened Jurassic Park River Adventure, which opened in March 1999, and many smaller rides and attractions based on the Jurassic Park series. At 85 feet, the drop at the Orlando ride is the deepest ever built. The Universal Studios theme park rides have been designed to support the film's plot, with Hammond having been contacted to rebuild the Park at the theme park location.
Reaction
Jurassic Park went on to become the most financially successful film yet released, beating E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial which previously held the title, although it did not top E.T. domestically. The film opened with $47 million in its first weekend, and it grossed $81.7 million by its first week. The film stayed at number one for three weeks and eventually grossed $357 million domestically. The film also did very well in foreign markets, breaking opening records in the U.K., Japan, South Korea, Mexico and Taiwan. Spielberg earned over $250 million from the film. Jurassic Park's worldwide gross was topped five years later by James Cameron's Titanic.
The film received modestly positive reviews. High praise was heaped on the visual effects, although there was a lot of criticism leveled at the characterization and departures from the book. Janet Maslin in The New York Times called it, "A true movie milestone, presenting awe- and fear-inspiring sights never before seen on the screen....On paper, this story is tailor-made for Mr. Spielberg's talents...[but] [i]t becomes less crisp on screen than it was on the page, with much of the enjoyable jargon either mumbled confusingly or otherwise thrown away." In Rolling Stone, Peter Travers described the film as "colossal entertainment - the eye-popping, mind-bending, kick-out-the-jams thrill ride of summer and probably the year....Compared with the dinos, the characters are dry bones, indeed. Crichton and co-screenwriter David Koepp have flattened them into nonentities on the trip from page to screen." Roger Ebert noted, "The movie delivers all too well on its promise to show us dinosaurs. We see them early and often, and they are indeed a triumph of special effects artistry, but the movie is lacking other qualities that it needs even more, such as a sense of awe and wonderment, and strong human story values." Henry Sheehan argued, "The complaints over Jurassic Park's lack of story and character sound a little off the point," pointing out the story arc of Grant learning to protect Hammond's grandchildren despite his initial dislike of them.
Awards
The movie won all three Academy Awards it was nominated for: Visual Effects, Sound Effects Editing, and Sound. It won the Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation and the Saturn Awards for Best Science Fiction Film, Best Direction, Best Writing for Crichton and Koepp and Best Special Effects. The film won the People's Choice Awards for Favorite All-Around Motion Picture. Young Artist Awards were given to Ariana Richards and Joseph Mazzello, with the film winning an Outstanding Action/Adventure Family Motion Picture award. The film won honours outside of the U.S., such as the BAFTA for Best Special Effects, as well as the Award for the Public's Favourite Film, and Awards for Best Foreign Language Film from the Japanese Academy, Mainichi Eiga Concours and Blue Ribbon, and the Czech Lions.
Jurassic Park is ranked as fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with an 85% positive rating, with 28 out of 33 critics giving it positive reviews. The American Film Institute named Jurassic Park the 35th most thrilling film of all time on June 13, 2001, and Bravo chose a scene from it as the 95th scariest scene of all time in 2005. In 2004, on their fifteenth anniversary, Empire called it the sixth most influential film of their lifetime. Upon their fifty-fifth anniversary in 2005, Film Review declared it one of the five most important films of their lifetime. In 2006, IGN ranked Jurassic Park as the 19th greatest film franchise of all time.
Most significantly, when many filmmakers saw Jurassic Park's use of computer generated imagery, they realized that many of their visions, previously thought unfeasible or too expensive, were now possible. Stanley Kubrick contacted Spielberg to direct A.I., George Lucas started to make the Star Wars prequels, and Peter Jackson began to re-explore his childhood love of fantasy films, a path that led him onto The Lord of the Rings and King Kong. Jurassic Park has inspired films and documentaries such as Godzilla, Carnosaur and Walking with Dinosaurs, as well as numerous parodies. Stan Winston joined together with IBM and director James Cameron to form Digital Domain, saying, "If I didn't get involved, I was going to become the dinosaur." Alex Billington declared it as a film that was ahead of its time, saying that on another level, "Even using the animatronics system that they did, this was a far step ahead of anything at the time. Then the stories surrounding how horrifically real the dinosaurs were fueled its popularity even more. And the best part is that they look better in this movie than any more recent CGI creations."
10. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
(Collections: $892,194,397)
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is a 2005 fantasy adventure film, based on J.K. Rowling's novel of the same name, and is the fourth film in the popular Harry Potter film series.Directed by Mike Newell, the film concerns Harry Potter's fourth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Hogwarts has been selected to hold the recently returning wizard competition known as the Triwizard Tournament. Though Harry does not apply, the Goblet of Fire mysteriously selects him as a second representative of Hogwarts in the tournament.
Three days after its release, the film had grossed over US$102 million at the North American box office, the highest first-weekend tally for a Harry Potter film, and enjoyed an immensely successful run at the box office, earning over $896 million worldwide, making it the highest grossing film of 2005 and the 8th-highest grossing film of all time. It was the third highest grossing film in the U.S. for 2005 making $290 million. It is currently the 11th highest-grossing film of all time. The DVD went on to become the fastest selling DVD of all time. It is currently the third-highest grossing Harry Potter film, behind Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Art Direction, but lost to Memoirs of a Geisha.
This is the first Harry Potter film to receive a "PG-13" rating or its international equivalent (for sequences of fantasy violence and frightening images), the preceding films having been rated PG or one of its international equivalents.
Plot Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley enter their fourth year at Hogwarts school. The film opens in a graveyard attached to an old country house; the gardener Frank Bryce awakes in his cottage to see a light on in the house. He investigates to find Lord Voldemort and Peter Pettigrew discussing plans with an unidentified man; Voldemort kills Bryce. Harry awakes at The Burrow before departing with the Weasley family and Hermione for the Quidditch World Cup. After the introduction to the game, there is a temporal jump to that evening, when the camp is attacked by Death Eaters, who disperse when the Dark Mark is shot into the air by an unknown man.
Harry, Ron and Hermione arrive at Hogwarts, where they find that it will be hosting the Triwizard Tournament, a legendary event in which one wizard each from two rival schools and Hogwarts compete in three dangerous tasks. Dumbledore reveals the Goblet of Fire, a magical cup into which potential champions must drop a piece of parchment with their name on it; the goblet acts as an impartial judge to select candidates. The goblet reveals its results by shooting the relevant pieces of parchment into the air: Cedric Diggory from Hogwarts, Viktor Krum from Durmstrang and Fleur Delacour from Beauxbatons. The goblet then unexpectedly announces a fourth champion, Harry, although he did not enter his name and is in any case under the age limit set by the Ministry of Magic. Although Harry insists that he did not enter his name, his selection invites jealousy and suspicion from his fellow students, including a breakdown of friendship with Ron which lasts until after the first task. Dumbledore asks the new Defence against the Dark Arts professor, Alastor Moody, to keep an eye on Harry. Moody is an eccentric and paranoid man with a magical eye, who drinks only from a hip-flask for fear of poison.
In the first Triwizard task, the four champions each battle a dragon to retrieve a golden egg. Harry casts a summoning charm to bring his broom into the arena, and attempts to dodge the dragon in the air. The dragon, however, breaks free of its chains and chases Harry through the Hogwarts grounds, eventually running into a stone bridge and falling dead. Harry retrieves the egg, which is said to contain a clue about the second task. When Harry opens it, though, only a horrible screeching is heard. Cedric Diggory, the other Hogwarts champion, advises Harry to open the egg underwater. Harry does so in the prefects' bathroom and hears the clue clearly; it informs him that the merpeople will take something of Harry's and that he must retrieve it from the lake in the Hogwarts grounds. Having eaten gillyweed, a magical plant which enables him to breathe underwater, Harry follows a mermaid to where the merpeople have chained Ron, Hermione, Cho Chang, and Gabrielle Delacour to a rock with thousands of merpeople guarding them. When Harry arrives in the village of the merpeople they do not attack Harry but they do give him a hard time by threatening Harry with their spears. Cho is retrieved by Cedric; Victor, the Durmstrang champion, takes Hermione. As Fleur was attacked by Grindylows and had to withdraw from the task, Harry rescues both Ron and her sister. But on the way back to the surface Harry is attacked by a herd of Grindylows who viciously attack Harry and attempt to drown him but Harry escapes by using his wand. Although this causes Harry to finish outside the time limit of one hour, his courage is rewarded with high marks.
A traditional part of the Triwizard tournament is the Yule Ball, to which students are encouraged to invite partners of the opposite sex. There follow scenes in which Harry and Ron attempt to get partners for the ball. Harry is especially concerned since, as one of the champions, he is expected to open the dance. He eventually asks Cho when they bump into each other in the Owlery; however, she declines. She has already accepted an offer from Cedric Diggory. Ron desperately asks Hermione, who also declines — at the opening of the Yule Ball scene, it is revealed that she had been invited by Viktor Krum. Eventually, Harry asks Parvati Patil, who accepts; her sister Padma partners Ron. Although Hermione greatly enjoys the ball, Harry and Ron do not; Ron, who is particularly jealous of Krum, accuses Hermione of "fraternising with the enemy," leading to a serious row between the two characters.
For the third task, the Triwizard cup is placed inside a large maze whose magical hedges are capable of attacking the champions as they attempt to reach it: the first champion to touch the cup will be declared the winner. Along the way Harry is attacked by the magical hedges but manages to escape before he is crushed. Having saved each other several times throughout the tournament, Harry and Cedric reach the cup together and decide to claim a draw, both touching the cup at the same time. The cup, which is actually a portkey, transports the two to a graveyard, where Pettigrew appears with a form of Voldemort. Upon command, Wormtail kills Cedric and traps Harry against an enchanted tombstone. Wormtail performs complicated magic, taking blood from Harry's arm and other ingredients to return Voldemort to a corporeal body. After explaining how he lost his powers to Harry, Voldemort duels Harry. Thanks to a rare magical effect, Harry is able to escape by summoning the cup, which takes him back to Hogwarts. Moody takes Harry to his office, but he suddenly starts to change his appearance as he has run out of Polyjuice Potion. The Moody who has been at Hogwarts all year is revealed an escaped Death Eater who has been impersonating the real Alastor Moody. This impostor has been working to help Harry win the Triwizard tournament and hence reach the cup first. Harry was not supposed to survive or return; as the false moody Moody is about to kill Harry, Dumbledore, Snape, and McGonagall burst in the room and stun him. The impostor rapidly returns to his own appearance; he is Barty Crouch Jr, the mysterious man in Harry's dream at the beginning. The film closes as the foreign schools depart after Dumbledore exhorts them to stand together against Voldemort.
Cast
Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter: the main protagonist. Now entering his fourth year as Hogwarts, Harry is unknowingly entered in to Triwizard tournament.
Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley: one of Harry's best friends. Although he falls out with Harry at the beginning of the Triwizard tournament, the pair reconcile and remain good friends.
Emma Watson as Hermione Granger: one of Harry's best friends. Although she loathes her position as an intermediary between Harry and Ron during their period of hostility, she remains supportive of Harry throughout.
Ralph Fiennes as Lord Voldemort: the primary villain. The darkest wizard of age, who returns to a human body at the climax of the film.
Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore: the Hogwarts headmaster. He is supportive of Harry throughout the year, although he does not suspect Moody until it is almost too late.
Brendan Gleeso as Alastor Moody: the Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. He is revealed as an impostor at the end of the film.
Robert Pattinson as Cedric Diggory: a Hogwarts student who is chosen as a Triwizard champion. He is murdered in the graveyard at the climax of the film.
Gary Oldman as the voice and motion capture of Sirius Black: who appears for a brief expository scene in a fireplace in the Gryffindor common room.
Miranda Richardson as Rita Skeeter: an over-inquisitive journalist.
Alan Rickman as Severus Snape: the Potions teacher.
Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid: the Hogwarts gamekeeper. He is responsible for showing Harry the dragons prior to the first task.
Maggie Smith as Minerva McGonagall: the Transfiguration teacher, and Harry's housemistress.
Timothy Spall as Peter Pettigrew: Voldemort's main servant, who helps in his rebirth.
Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy: Draco Malfoy's father, who is seen in the graveyard at the film's climax in Death Eater robes.
David Tennant as Barty Crouch Jr.: the impostor who impersonates Alastor Moody, to assist in the return of Voldemort.
Frances de la Tour as Olympe Maxime: a half-giant who is headmistress of Beauxbatons Academy of Magic.
Predrag Bjelac as Igor Karkaroff: the headmaster of Durmstrang.
Warwick Davis as Filius Flitwick: the Hogwarts charms professor.
Tom Felton as Draco Malfoy: Harry's school nemesis. He is briefly turned into a ferret by Moody.
Robert Hardy as Cornelius Fudge: the Minister for Magic.
Roger Lloyd-Pack as Barty Crouch: head of the Department of Magical Co-operation, who is murdered by his son.
Clémence Poésy as Fleur Delacour: the Triwizard champion from Beauxbatons.
Stanislav Ianevski as Viktor Krum: the Durmstrang Triwizard champion. He invites Hermione Granger to the Yule Ball.
Katie Leung as Cho Chang: a girl on whom Harry has a crush, and who he unsuccessfully tries to invite to the Yule Ball.
Matthew Lewis as Neville Longbottom: a Gryffindor student. He suggests Gillyweed to Harry as a means to survive the Second task.
Mark Williams as Arthur Weasley: Ron's father. He takes the children to the Quidditch World Cup.
James and Oliver Phelps as Fred and George Weasley: Ron's rebellious older brothers.
Bonnie Wright as Ginny Weasley: Ron's younger sister.
Shirley Henderson as Moaning Myrtle: a Hogwarts ghost who haunts the school plumbing network.
Jeff Rawle as Amos Diggory: Cedric's father.
Angelica Mandy as Gabrielle Delacour: Fleur's younger sister, who is rescued from the lake by Harry in the second task.
Adrian Rawlins and Geraldine Somerville as James and Lily Potter: Harry's parents, who appear as ghosts at the climax of the film.
Jarvis Cocker, Phil Selway, Jonny Greenwood, Steve Mackey, Jason Buckle and Steven Claydon cameoed as the members of the Weird Sisters.
Production
The film was mainly shot in Leavesden Film Studios. Other locations used in filming are as follows:
Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire, England, UK
Knebworth House, Hertfordshire, England, United Kingdom (including the Yule Ball Staircase scene)
Black Park, Iver, Buckinghamshire, England, UK
Divinity School, Bodleian Library, Broad Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, England, UK
Beachy Head, Eastbourne, East Sussex, England, UK
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Lochaber, Highland, Scotland, UK (Hogwarts Express)
New College, Holywell Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, England, UK (Cloister, Ferret Scene)
Steall Falls, Scotland, UK
Virginia Water, Surrey, England, UK
Beckley Park, Oxfordshire, England, UK
Differences from the book
With the Goblet of Fire novel almost twice the length of Prisoner of Azkaban, the writers and producers reduced certain scenes and concepts that made the transition from page to screen. Director Mike Newell described the problem as one of "compressing [a] huge book into the compass of a movie." This was achieved by "putting aside" all the components of the novel which did not directly relate to Harry and his journey. Even producer David Heyman admitted missing many of the scenes which were removed. In particular, the gameplay at the Quidditch world cup was removed for timing reasons, leaving an abrupt temporal jump which some reviewers considered awkward or "rushed". Heyman also regretted the removal of S.P.E.W., Hermione's Society for the Promotion of Elfish Welfare – this omission was continued in the following film.
As in Prisoner of Azkaban, most of the classes shown in the book were removed, only the single lesson where Alastor Moody demonstrates the Unforgivable Curses making the final cut. Goblet of Fire is also the only film adaptation not to begin in Privet Drive; after the opening sequence, Harry awakens at the Burrow on the morning of the Quidditch World Cup. Other scenes are shortened and amalgamated to include only the most essential plot details; the three Death Eater trials Harry witnesses in the Pensieve are merged into one short sequence, and all of Sirius Black's lines are condensed into a single fireside conversation.
In addition to large slices of the school year, many characters, such as Barty Crouch Senior, Rita Skeeter and Amos Diggory, were severely reduced in scope, or removed altogether, such as Ludo Bagman and Winky and Dobby the house-elves. In the movie, both Beauxbatons and Durmstrang appear to be single-sex schools. All of the Beauxbatons visitors to Hogwarts are girls, while all the Durmstrang students are boys. In the book, both schools are co-educational and send both boys and girls to visit Hogwarts.
While the three tasks of the Triwizard tournament generally remained true to the original novel, certain adaptations were included for dramatic effect. The first task, whilst contained entirely within the stadium in the original book, is extended into an extensive chase scene through the Hogwarts buildings and grounds. The second task was almost entirely faithful to the novel, although the Grindylow attack was moved to the end of the sequence as the effects of the Gillyweed wears off. Because Dobby is not present in the film, Neville instead gives Harry the Gillyweed, as was Barty Crouch Junior's original plan in the novel. For the third task, the scene giving the champions advance warning of the maze was removed, as were all of Harry's preparations for it. In the film, the maze itself is devoid of the magical creatures and enchantments that were present in the book; instead, Dumbledore warns the contestants that "people change in the maze. Find the cup if you will, but be careful not to lose yourself". Krum, visibly under the Imperius Curse, still attempts to attack Cedric (although with the Killing Curse rather than the Cruciatus Curse) but in the film version Fleur is not attacked by Krum – instead, she is seen being throttled and absorbed by the magical hedges, which are another addition for dramatic effect.
Reaction
Critical reception
The film was received very positively by critics, garnering an 89% "Cream of the Crop" rating at Rotten Tomatoes. The New York Daily News praised the film for both its humour and its dark tone. The young actors were praised for demonstrating a "greater range of subtle emotions", particularly Daniel Radcliffe whom Variety described as delivering a "dimensional and nuanced performance". New cast members were also praised: Brendan Gleeson's portrayal of Mad-Eye Moody was described as "colourful"; Miranda Richardson's scenes were described as "wonderful"; and Ralph Fiennes's portrayal of Lord Voldemort was described as "sublime villainy".
The maturity of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, among others, impressed most critics. While the major characters were portrayed as children in the previous films, "they have subtly transitioned into teenagers (in Goblet of Fire)" according to one USA Today reviewer. Harry has also physically matured since Prisoner of Azkaban. In the scene in the prefects' bathroom, Daniel Radcliffe's character is shown with significant axillary hair and muscle growth. When asked about the scene, Radcliffe replied, "Hey, I'm growing up. I was fifteen when I filmed that scene, and hell, Harry's fourteen now. It's quite common for guys our age to have underarm hair or to work out."
Negative criticism included the film's pace which The Arizona Republic described as being "far too episodic", while CNN.com described the film as "clunky and disjointed". Another criticism was that the many supporting characters did not get enough screen time. Some fans criticised the film for changing and leaving out too much of the source material, particularly those parts that developed character, and those parts of the story that set-up events that occur later in the series.
Box office performance
After an opening day of $40m at the North American box office and staying at #1 for three weeks, Goblet of Fire enjoyed a successful run at the box office, running for 20 weeks in theatres and closing on April 6, 2006. The film set numerous records including the highest non-May opening weekend in the US and the most successful opening ever in the UK, earning £14.9m in its opening weekend. Goblet of Fire then drew $102.7 million from 3,858 locations its opening weekend at the North American box office, setting a new opening high for the franchise and selling about as many tickets as the first movie, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, did in its opening weekend. The debut marked the fourth $100 million weekend in history and to this day stands as the ninth largest opening weekend ever, behind Spider-Man 3's $151 million, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest's $135 million, Shrek the Third's $121 million, Spider-Man's $114.8 million, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End's $112 million Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith's $108.4 million, Shrek 2's $108 million, and X-Men: The Last Stand's $102.8 million. In mainland China the film generated 93 million yuan.
Goblet of Fire has earned US $896 million worldwide, making it not only the highest grossing international and worldwide release of 2005, but one of the few films to have ever passed $600 million in international box office receipts. It has joined seven other titles that have passed the $600 million mark, including Titanic, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, and the first, second and fifth Harry Potter films. Its worldwide total includes $290 million from the U.S. and Canada.
The film was also released in IMAX theatres and grossed a total of US $20,033,758 worldwide for a cumulative per screen average of $188,998 thus setting a new record and a new milestone for a digitally remastered 2-D IMAX release.
In January 2006, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire surpassed the box office takings of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, to become the eighth highest-grossing film worldwide, during that time, and the second highest-grossing film in the Harry Potter series, behind Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Today, it is the third highest-grossing Harry Potter film behind The Philosopher's Stone and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
The film ranks third in the North American box office (domestic) behind Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe for 2005 though both films rank lower than Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in worldwide terms.
Awards
Nominated:
Academy Award for Best Art Direction, lost to Memoirs of a Geisha
Stuart CraigStephanie McMillan
Wyrd Sisters lawsuit
In the runup to the movie, Warner Bros. approached a Canadian folk group called the Wyrd Sisters to obtain permission to use the name THE WEIRD SISTERS for its Harry Potter Band. When a deal could not be made, the Canadian band filed a US$40-million lawsuit against Warner Brothers, the North American distributor of the film, for the misuse of their group's name. The Canadian band also brought an injunction to stop the release of the movie as it contained a performance by the improperly named Harry Potter band. This motion was dismissed by an Ontario judge.
Before the film was released, Warner Brothers claimed that it had never used the name THE WEIRD SISTERS in any way in the film or otherwise and that it would not do so in the future. However, since this turned out not to be true, the Canadian band is continuing its action in the Federal Court of Canada where Warner Bros. and some of its major licensees are being sued for misuse of the Canadian band's name in Harry Potter merchandise along with misuse in the film and soundtrack. In the Ontario Court, Warner Bros. and its counsel on the injunction are the subject of contempt proceedings relating to alleged violations in Warner Bros.' testimony on the interlocutory injunction. The judge that heard the matter, Mr. Justice Colin Campbell of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, is the subject of a complaint to the Canadian Judicial Council arising from allegations of judicial misconduct relating to the injunction hearing itself and interference with the action in the Ontario Court in the months following the injunction hearing.
DVD
The film was released on DVD in North America on March 7, 2006. It was available in one- and two-disc editions, as well as part of an 8-disc boxset that includes all four films to date. The bonus disc features three interactive games, as well as seven behind the scenes featurettes. The film was also released in UMD format for PSP.
Wal-Mart had a special bonus disc available for purchase alongside the single-disc editions that features extra features and a sample of the Harry Potter edition of the Scene It? DVD game.
On its first day of release in North America, over 5 million copies were sold, recording a franchise high for first-day sales. Within its first week it sold over a total of 9 million units of combined sales of both the widescreen and full-screen versions of the DVD.
The UK edition was released on DVD on March 20, 2006 and became the fastest selling UK DVD ever, selling six copies per second on its first day of release. According to the Official Charts Company, the DVD sold 1.4 million copies in its first week alone. It is also available in a two-disc edition with special features similar to the North American two-disc edition.
The DVD currently holds the Guinness World Record for being the fastest selling DVD of all time. The achievement is added to the 2007 edition of The Guinness World Records book which includes a picture of the award being presented at Leavesden Studios in April.
Future Shop has an exclusive promotion including a holographic cover for the two-disc edition.
Warner Home Video announced the HD DVD edition of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire was to be released on April 11, 2006; however, due to the delayed release of Toshiba's HD DVD player, the HD DVD edition of Goblet of Fire was pushed back to April 18, 2006. This deadline was also missed. In the United States, the first five Harry Potter films will be released on HD DVD and Blu-ray disc on December 11, 2007. They will be available individually or in a gift set containing all five films and a set of collectible cards and bookmarks. The Chinese DVD edition was released 2 weeks before the North American release as an effort to combat DVD piracy in the country of China. The DVD was sold at a low price of $2.73 USD.
The Indian Version of the DVD was a two-disc special edition, which was released by Saregama home video on April 7, 2006. Instead of VHS a VCD was released. The DVD priced Rs.699 INR($14.86 USD) and VCD priced Rs. 299 INR($6.37 USD)
11. Spider-Man 3 (2007)
(Collections: $885,430,303)
Spider-Man 3 is a 2007 American superhero film written and directed by Sam Raimi, with a screenplay by Ivan Raimi and Alvin Sargent. It is the third film in the Spider-Man film franchise based on the fictional Marvel Comics character Spider-Man. The film stars Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, and Topher Grace.The film begins with Peter Parker basking in his success as Spider-Man, while Mary Jane Watson begins her Broadway career. Harry Osborn still seeks vengeance for his father's death, and an escaped convict, Flint Marko, falls into a particle accelerator and is transformed into a shape-shifting sand manipulator. An alien symbiote crashes to Earth and bonds with Peter, influencing his behavior for the worse. When the symbiote is abandoned, it finds refuge in Eddie Brock Jr., a rival photographer, causing Peter to face his greatest challenge.
Spider-Man 3 was commercially released in multiple countries on May 1, 2007, and released in the United States in both conventional and IMAX theaters on May 4, 2007. Although the film received generally mixed reviews from critics, in contrast to the previous two films' highly positive reviews, it broke most of the opening weekend records, both in the United States and in foreign markets, including records held in IMAX theaters.
Story and Plot Point
Peter Parker has begun to feel secure in his life and plans to propose to Mary Jane. One night in a park, while Peter and Mary Jane are on a date, a small meteorite crashes nearby, and an alien symbiote oozes out, attaching itself to Peter's moped. Meanwhile, escaped convict Flint Marko falls into a particle accelerator, which fuses his body with the surrounding sand. The result allows him to shape shift at will. Peter's best friend, Harry Osborn, who seeks vengeance for his father's death, which he believes Peter caused, attacks him. The battle leaves Harry with short-term amnesia, making him forget his vendetta.
Later, during a festival honoring Spider-Man for saving Gwen Stacy’s life, Marko attempts to rob an armored car, and overpowers Spider-Man. Captain Stacy later informs Peter and Aunt May that Marko is the one who killed Ben Parker, and a vengeful Peter waits for Marko to strike again. The symbiote bonds with his costume while he is asleep; Peter discovers that not only has his costume changed, but his powers have been enhanced as well. The black suit also alters Peter's personality, making him more violent, exemplified by a near lethal attack on Marko during a battle underground.
The shift in Peter's personality alienates Mary Jane, whose stage career is floundering, and she finds solace with Harry. Harry recovers from his amnesia, and, urged on by an apparition of his dead father, forces MJ to break up with Peter. After Mary Jane leaves Peter, stating she is in love with another man, Harry meets him at a restaurant and claims to be the other man. Later, Peter finds him at the Osborn mansion. With the help of the black suit, Peter is victorious in a brutal fight, which leaves Harry's face disfigured. Influenced by the suit, Peter exposes and humiliates Eddie Brock Jr., a rival photographer at the Daily Bugle, who sells fake pictures of Spider-Man.
In an effort to make MJ jealous, Peter brings Gwen to the nightclub where Mary Jane works and Peter gets into a fight. In the scuffle, he accidentally knocks MJ to the floor. Peter realizes the symbiote-suit is changing him for the worse. He runs out of the nightclub and goes to a church bell tower to be rid of it. Initially he is unable to pull the suit off, but the sound waves from the church bells weaken the symbiote, freeing Peter. Eddie Brock is at the same church praying for Peter’s death when the symbiote falls from the tower and takes over his body. The newly-powered Eddie finds Marko and suggests that they join forces to destroy Spider-Man.
The pair use Mary Jane as bait to force Spider-Man to confront them. Peter approaches Harry for help, but is turned down and leaves. However, Harry learns the truth about his father's death from his butler Bernard, and arrives in time to rescue Peter, teaming up against Brock and Marko. As the fight progresses, Brock attempts to impale Peter with the glider, but Harry sacrifices himself and is fatally wounded. Peter recalls how the church bell's toll weakened the symbiote, and frees Eddie from it by clanging several pipes together. Peter throws a pumpkin bomb at the symbiote just as Eddie, who has grown attached to its power, attempts to re-bond with it. Eddie and the symbiote are destroyed in the explosion.
After the battle, Marko tells Peter that he had no intention of killing Ben Parker, and that it was an accident born out of a desperate attempt to save his daughter's life. Peter forgives Flint, who dissipates and floats away. Peter and Harry forgive each other as Harry dies with Mary Jane and Peter by his side. After Harry's funeral, Peter and Mary Jane begin to mend their relationship.
Cast
Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker / Spider-Man: A superhero, a brilliant physics student at Columbia University and photographer for the Daily Bugle. As he grows arrogant with the city starting to embrace him for the first time in his career, an alien symbiote attaches itself to Peter's costume and influences his behavior for the worse. Maguire said he relished the opportunity to play a less timid Parker in this film.
Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson: Peter Parker's girlfriend and a Broadway actress, whom he has loved since childhood. Mary Jane has a string of bad luck in the film, reminiscent of Peter's misfortune in Spider-Man 2, losing her job because of bad reviews and getting dumped by her boyfriend when the symbiote takes over.
James Franco as Harry Osborn / New Goblin: The son of Norman Osborn and Peter Parker's former best friend, who believes Spider-Man murdered his father. After learning Peter is Spider-Man and that Norman was the Green Goblin, Harry becomes the New Goblin to battle his former friend directly.
Rosemary Harris as May Parker: The aunt of Peter Parker and the widow of Ben Parker, Peter's uncle. She gives Peter her engagement ring so he can propose to Mary Jane, and gives him lessons in forgiveness.
J. K. Simmons as J. Jonah Jameson: The aggressive chief of the Daily Bugle. He has particular dislike towards Spider-Man, whom he considers a criminal.
Dylan Baker as Dr. Curt Connors: A college physics professor under whom Peter Parker studies. He examines a piece of the symbiote and tells Peter it increases aggression.
Willem Dafoe as Norman Osborn / Green Goblin: The hallucination of Harry Osborn's late wicked father returns to encourage his son to destroy Spider-Man.
In addition to these reprisals, Spider-Man 3 introduces:
Thomas Haden Church as Flint Marko / Sandman: A small-time thug who has a wife and sick daughter, for whom he steals money to help get the treatment to cure her. He transforms into the Sandman following a freak accident, and incurs Peter's wrath when Peter learns he was his Uncle Ben's true killer. Church was approached for Sandman because of his award-winning performance in the film Sideways, and accepted the role despite the lack of a script at the time. The film's Sandman possesses sympathy similarly exhibited by Lon Chaney in his portrayals of misunderstood creatures, as well as Frankenstein's monster, the Golem, and Peter Jacksons incarnations of Gollum and King Kong. Church worked out for 16 months to improve his physique for the role, gaining twenty-eight pounds of muscle and losing ten pounds of fat.
Topher Grace as Edward "Eddie" Brock, Jr. / Venom: Peter's rival at the Daily Bugle. He is exposed by Peter for creating a fake incriminating image of Spider-Man, and leaps at the opportunity to exact his revenge when he bonds with the symbiote. Grace had impressed the producers with his performance in the film In Good Company. A big comic book fan who read the first Venom stories as a boy, Grace spent six months working out to prepare for the role, gaining twenty-four pounds of muscle. He approached the character as someone under the influence, similar to an alcoholic or drug addict, and interpreted him as having a bad childhood, which is the key difference between him and Peter. Grace found his costume unpleasant, as it had to be constantly smeared to give a liquid-like feel. The costume took an hour to put on, though prosthetics took four hours to apply. Grace also wore fangs, which bruised his gums.
Bryce Dallas Howard as Gwen Stacy: Peter's lab partner. He asks her out to embarrass Mary Jane when possessed by the symbiote. Howard said the challenge of playing the role was in reminding many fans of the good-natured character who was Peter's first love in the comics, yet was "the other woman" in the film. Howard strived to create a sense that Gwen could potentially be a future girlfriend for him, and that, "I was not acting like some kind of man-stealing tart." Howard performed many of her stunts, unaware of the fact she was pregnant.
James Cromwell as Captain George Stacy: Gwen's father and a New York City Police Captain.
Spider-Man co-creator Stan Lee has a cameo in Spider-Man 3, as he did in the previous Spider-Man films, which he referred to as his "best cameo". Actor Bruce Campbell, who had cameo roles as a wrestling ring announcer in Spider-Man and as a rude usher in Spider-Man 2, returns in Spider-Man 3 with a new cameo as a French maître d'. Originally his character, who helps Peter try to propose, was much more antagonistic. Composer Christopher Young appears in the film as a pianist at Mary Jane's theater when she is sacked, while producer Grant Curtis cameoed as the driver of an armored car that Sandman attacks.
Production
Development
In March 2004, with Spider-Man 2 being released the coming June, Marvel Studios had begun developing Spider-Man 3 for a release in 2007. By the release of Spider-Man 2, a release date for Spider-Man 3 had been set for May 2, 2007 before production on the sequel had begun. The date was later changed to May 4, 2007. In January 2005, Sony Pictures Entertainment completed a seven-figure deal with screenwriter Alvin Sargent, who had penned Spider-Man 2, to work on Spider-Man 3 with an option to write a fourth film.
Immediately after Spider-Man 2's release, Ivan Raimi wrote a treatment over two months, with Sam Raimi deciding to use the film to explore Peter learning that he is not a sinless vigilante, and that there also can be humanity in those he considers criminals. Harry Osborn was brought back as Raimi wanted to conclude his storyline, but Raimi felt that Harry would not follow his father's legacy, but be instead "somewhere between". Sandman was introduced as an antagonist, as Raimi found him a visually fascinating character. While Sandman is a petty criminal in the comics, the screenwriters created a background of the character being Uncle Ben's killer to increase Peter's guilt over his death and challenge his simplistic perception of the event. Overall, Raimi described the film as being about Peter, Mary Jane, Harry and the Sandman, with Peter's journey being one of forgiveness.
Raimi wanted another villain, and Ben Kingsley was involved in negotiations to play the Vulture before the character was cut. Producer Avi Arad convinced Raimi to include Venom, a character whose perceived "lack of humanity" had initially been criticized by Sam Raimi. Venom's alter-ego, Eddie Brock, already had a minor role in the script. Arad told the director that Venom had a strong fan base, so Raimi included the character to please them, and even began to appreciate the character himself. The film's version of the character is an amalgamation of Venom stories. Eddie Brock, Jr., the human part of Venom, serves as a mirror to Peter Parker, with both characters having similar jobs and romantic interests. Brock's actions as a journalist in Spider-Man 3 also represent contemporary themes of paparazzi and tabloid journalism. The producers also suggested adding rival love interest Gwen Stacy, filling in an "other girl" type that Raimi already created. With so many additions, Sargent soon found his script so complex that he considered splitting it into two films, but abandoned the idea when he could not create a successful intermediate climax.
Filming
Camera crews spent ten days from November 5, 2005 to November 18, 2005, to film sequences that would involve intense visual effects so Sony Pictures Imageworks could begin work on the shots early in the project. The same steps had been taken for Spider-Man 2 to begin producing visual effects early for sequences involving the villain Doctor Octopus.
Principal photography for Spider-Man 3 began on January 16, 2006 and wrapped in July 2006 after over a hundred days of filming. The team filmed in Los Angeles until May 19, 2006. In spring 2006, film location manager Peter Martorano brought camera crews to Cleveland, due to the Cleveland Film Commission offering production space at the city's convention center at no cost. In Cleveland, they shot the battle between Spider-Man and Sandman in the armored car. Afterwards, the team moved to Manhattan, where filming took place from May 26, 2006 until July 1, 2006. Shooting placed a strain on Raimi, who often had to move between several units to complete the picture. Shooting was also difficult for cinematographer Bill Pope, as the Symbiote Spider-Man, Venom and the New Goblin were costumed in black during fight scenes taking place at night.
After August, pick-ups were conducted as Raimi sought to film more action scenes. The film then wrapped in October, although in the following month, additional special effects shots were taken to finalize the production. At the start of 2007, there were further pick-up shots regarding the resolution of Sandman's story, amounting to four different versions.
Effects
John Dykstra, who won the Academy Award for Visual Effects for his work on Spider-Man 2, declined to work on the third film as visual effects supervisor. Dykstra's colleague, Scott Stokdyk, took his place as supervisor, leading two hundred programmers at Sony Pictures Imageworks designed specific computer programs that did not exist when Spider-Man 3 began production, creating nine hundred visual effects shots.[30] In addition to the innovative visual effects for the film, Stokdyk created a miniature of a skyscraper section at 1:16 scale with New Deal Studios' Ian Hunter and David Sanger. Stokdyk chose to design the miniature instead of using computer-generated imagery so damage done to the building could be portrayed realistically and timely without guesswork involving computer models. In addition, to Sony Imageworks, CafeFX provided visual effects for the crane disaster scene when Spider-Man rescues Gwen Stacy, as well as shots in the climactic battle.
To understand the effects of sand for the Sandman, experiments were done with twelve types of sand, such as splashing, launching at stuntmen, and poured over ledges. The results were mimicked on the computer to create the visual effects for Sandman. For scenes involving visual effects, Thomas Haden Church was super-imposed onto the screen, where computer-generated imagery was then applied. With sand as a possible hazard in scenes that buried actors, ground-up corncobs were used as a substitute instead. Because of its resemblance to the substance, sand from Arizona was used as the model for the CG sand. In a fight where Spider-Man punches through Sandman's chest, amputee martial arts expert Baxter Humby took Tobey Maguire's place in filming the scene. Humby, whose right hand was amputated at birth, helped deliver the intended effect of punching through Sandman's chest.
Whereas the symbiote suit worn in the comics by Spider-Man was a plain black affair with a large white spider on the front and back, the design was changed for the film to become a black version of Spider-Man's traditional costume, complete with webbing motif. As a consequence of this, the suit Topher Grace wore as Venom also bore the webbing motif; as producer Grant Curtis noted, "it’s the Spider-Man suit, but twisted and mangled in its own right." Additionally, the motif gave a sense of life to the symbiote, giving it the appearance of gripping onto the character's body. When animating the symbiote, Raimi did not want it to resemble a spider or an octopus, and to give it a sense of character. The CG model is made of many separate strands. When animating Venom himself, animators observed footage of big cats such as lions and cheetahs for the character's agile movements.
Music
Originally, Danny Elfman, the composer for the previous installments, did not plan to return for the third installment of Spider-Man because of difficulties with director Sam Raimi. Elfman said that he had a "miserable experience" working with Raimi on Spider-Man 2 and could not comfortably adapt his music. Christopher Young was then announced to score Spider-Man 3 in Elfman's absence. In December 2006, however, producer Grant Curtis announced that Elfman had begun collaborating with Christopher Young on the music for Spider-Man 3.
Young, who had composed some of the score for the second film, kept the themes for Spider-Man and the Green Goblin, and he composed new themes for Sandman, Venom, and the love story. Sandman's theme uses "two contrabass saxophones, two contrabass clarinets, two contrabrass bassoons and eight very low French horns" to sound "low, aggressive and heavy". Young described Venom's theme as "vicious. My instructions on that one were that he’s the devil personified. His theme is much more demonic sounding." Venom's theme uses eight French horns. Raimi approved the new themes during their first performance, but rejected the initial music to the birth of Sandman, finding it too monstrous and not tragic enough. Young had to recompose much of his score at a later stage, as the producers felt there weren't enough themes from the previous films. Ultimately, new themes for the love story, Aunt May and Mary Jane were dropped.
Release
Spider-Man 3 had its world premiere in Tokyo on April 16, 2007, which garnered positive reaction from Japanese viewers. The film held its UK premiere on April 23, 2007 at the Odeon Leicester Square, and the U.S. premiere took place at the Tribeca Film Festival in Queens on April 30, 2007.
Spider-Man 3 was commercially released in sixteen territories on May 1, 2007. The film was released in Japan on May 1, 2007, three days prior to the American commercial release, to coincide with Japan's Golden Week. Spider-Man 3 was also released in China on May 3, 2007 to circumvent market growth of pirated copies of the film. The studio's release of a film in China before its domestic release was a first for Sony Pictures Releasing International. By May 6, 2007, Spider-Man 3 opened in one-hundred-and-seven countries around the world.
The film was commercially released in the United States on May 4, 2007 in a North American record total of 4,253 theaters, including fifty-three IMAX theaters. The record number of theaters was later beaten by Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, which was released in 4,362 theaters in the United States, one-hundred-and-ten more than Spider-Man 3. Tracking data a month before the U.S. release reflected over 90% awareness and over 20% first choice among moviegoers, statistics that estimated an opening weekend of over $100 million for Spider-Man 3. Online tickets for Spider-Man 3 were reported on April 23, 2007 to have been purchased at a faster rate -- three times at Movietickets.com and four times at Fandango -- than online ticket sales for Spider-Man 2. On May 2, 2007, Fandango reported the sales rate as six times greater than the rate for Spider-Man 2. The strong ticket sales caused theaters to add 3:00 AM showings following the May 4, 2007 midnight showing to accommodate the demand.
The FX channel signed a five year deal for the television rights to Spider-Man 3, which they plan to start airing at the beginning of 2009. The price will be based on the film's box office performance, with an option for three opportunities for Sony to sell the rights to one or more other broadcast networks.
Marketing
In New York City, the hometown of Spider-Man's fictional universe, tourist attractions arranged events and exhibits on April 30, 2007 to lead up to the release of Spider-Man 3. The unique campaign include a spider exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History, workshops on baby spider plants at the New York Botanical Garden, Green Goblin mask-making workshop at the Children's Museum of Manhattan, and a scavenger hunt and a bug show at Central Park Zoo.
Hasbro, which holds the license for Marvel characters, has released several toys to tie-in with the film. They include a deluxe spinning web blaster, along with several lines of action figures aimed at both children and collectors. Toys of the Green Goblin and Doctor Octopus from the first two films have been re-released to match the smaller scale of the new figures, as have been toys of the Lizard, the Scorpion, Kraven the Hunter, and the Rhino in a style reminiscent of the films. Techno Source created interactive toys, including a "hand-held Battle Tronics device that straps to the inside of a player’s wrist and mimics Spidey’s web-slinging motions". Japanese Medicom Toy Corporation produced collectibles, which Sideshow Collectibles distributed in the US.
Home video
Spider-Man 3 was released on Region 4 DVD in Australia on September 18, 2007. For Region 2 in the United Kingdom, the film was released on October 15, 2007. Spider-Man 3 was released on DVD in Region 1 territories on October 30, 2007. The film is available in one-disc and two-disc editions, on both standard and Blu-ray formats, as well as packages with the previous films and a PSP release. Sam Raimi, Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher Grace, Bryce Dallas Howard, Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad and Grant Curtis are among those who contributed to the audio commentaries.
Sony has announced plans to create "one of the largest" marketing campaigns in Hollywood for the October 30, 2007 release of the DVD. Beginning with a partnership with Papa Johns, Sony will print close to 8.5 billion impressions for pizza boxes, television, radio and online ads. Sony will also be working with Pringles Potato Crisp, Blu-Tack, Jolly Time Pop Corn, and Nutella. Sony's Vice President of marketing, Jennifer Anderson, stated the studio would be spending approximately 15% to 25% of its marketing budget on digital ad campaigns; from this, Papa Johns will be sending text messages to mobile phones with ads. Anderson stated that there will be three sweepstakes held for consumers, where they will be able to win prizes from Sony and its promotional partners.
Reception
Box office performance
On its international opening day on May 1, 2007 in 16 territories, Spider-Man 3 grossed $29.2 million, an 86% increase from the intake of Spider-Man 2 on its first day of release. In 10 of the 16 territories, Spider-Man 3 set new opening day records. In Asian territories, the film surpassed the opening-day record of Spider-Man 2 in Japan and South Korea. Spider-Man 3 also set opening-day records in Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and the Philippines. In India, where the movie was released in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Bhojpuri, the film grossed $4.66 million over the opening weekend, breaking the record set by Casino Royale in 2006 ($3.63 million). In Europe, the film broke Italy's opening-day record set by 2006's The Da Vinci Code. In Germany, the film surpassed the opening day gross of Spider-Man 2. In France, Spider-Man 3 broke the opening day record set by Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith in 2005. The film broke the opening weekend records in 29 countries, while being at least #1 in all 107 countries that it opened, which brought its international total to $231 million.
Spider-Man 3 set a record $59.8 million take for its opening day in the United States, breaking Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest 's $55.8 million record. The movie also took the worldwide opening day record with $117 million. The US opening day take includes a record $10 million in Thursday midnight showings. Spider-Man 3 broke Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest's all-time weekend debut by grossing $151.1 million. The film also set a new worldwide record for opening weekend, with a final total of $382 million. As of December 3, 2007, The total gross in America was $336,530,303, while the worldwide total was $890,871,626. It now ranks 3rd worldwide for the year behind Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and 12th all time. The film's IMAX screenings reached $20 million in 30 days, faster than any other 2D film remastered in the format.
Critical reaction
On the movie review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, Spider-Man 3 has a 62% critic rating from 219 reviews, with a 45% Cream of the Crop rating based on 39 reviews from major news outlets. On Metacritic, Spider-Man 3 has received a 59% rating based on 40 reviews. On Yahoo! Movies, Spider-Man 3 is graded a B- among 15 film critics. In an early, positive review, posted April 25, 2007, Roger Friedman of Fox News called the film a "4 star opera", noting that while long, there was plenty of humor and action. Andy Khouri of Comic Book Resources praised the film as "easily the most complex and deftly orchestrated superhero epic ever filmed […] despite the enormous amount of characters, action and sci-fi superhero plot going on in this film, Spider-Man 3 never feels weighted down, tedious or boring." Jonathan Ross, a big fan of the comic books, felt the film was the best of the trilogy. Richard Corliss of Time commended the filmmakers for their ability to "dramatize feelings of angst and personal betrayal worthy of an Ingmar Bergman film, and then to dress them up in gaudy comic-book colors". Wesley Morris of the The Boston Globe, who gave the film 4 out of 5 stars, wrote that it was a well made, fresh film, but would leave the viewer "overfulfilled". Jonathan Dean of Total Film felt the film's complex plot helped the film's pacing, in that, "it rarely feels disjointed or loose […] Spider-Man cements its shelf-life." Entertainment Weekly named the Sandman as the eighth best computer-generated film character.
John Hartl of MSNBC gave Spider-Man 3 a good review, but stated that it has some flaws such as having "too many storylines". His opinion is echoed by Houston Chronicle's Amy Biancolli who complained that "the script is busy with so many supporting characters and plot detours that the series' charming idiosyncrasy is sometimes lost in the noise." Jack Matthews of New York Daily News thought the film was too devoted to the "quiet conversations" of Peter and Mary Jane, but that fans would not be disappointed by the action. Among less enthusiastic reviewers, Sean Burns of Philadelphia Weekly felt that the director "substituted scope and scale for the warmth and wit that made those two previous pictures so memorable." Manohla Dargis of The New York Times deplored the film's pacing as "mostly just plods" and a lack of humor. Richard Roeper of the Chicago Sun-Times gave the film only 2 out of 4 stars, feeling, "for every slam-bang action sequence, there are far too many sluggish scenes." David Edelstein of New York Magazine misses the "centrifugal threat" of Alfred Molina's character, adding that "the three villains here don’t add up to one Doc Ock." James Berardinelli felt director Sam Raimi "overreached his grasp" by allowing so many villains, specifically saying, "Venom is one bad guy too many." Roger Ebert thought Church failed to express how Sandman felt about his new powers, something Molina, as Doc Ock in Spider-Man 2, did "with a vengeance"; he claimed the film was "a mess", with too many villains, subplots, romantic misunderstandings, conversations, and "street crowds looking high into the air and shouting 'oooh!' this way, then swiveling and shouting 'aaah!' that way".
12. Shrek 2 (2004)
(Collections: $880,871,036)
Shrek 2, which was released in the United States on May 19, 2004, is the 2004 sequel to the 2001 computer-animated DreamWorks Pictures film Shrek. In April 2004, the film was selected for competition at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival. There are more Shrek movies to follow, according to Jeffrey Katzenberg: "We didn't have the guts to tell anybody when we started out, [but] we have two more chapters to tell. Not unlike Peter Jackson did with The Lord of the Rings. The difference is they did have the guts to make all three of them 'back-to-back-to-back'".Shrek 2 scored the fourth-largest three-day opening weekend in US history, as well as the largest opening for an animated movie until May 18th, 2007, when it was eclipsed by its sequel Shrek the Third. As of 2006, it is the 3rd highest box office grossing film of all time in the United States. Worldwide, it is the ninth highest-grossing film of all time. It went on to be the most successful film in 2004. The associated soundtrack reached the top ten of the Billboard 200. It is also the highest-grossing animated film of all time (seventh after adjusting for inflation).
Story and Plot Point
In the beginning of Shrek 2, Prince Charming is riding a noble stallion to Dragon's Keep while narrating the origin of Princess Fiona. He is going to Dragon's Keep to save her. When Prince Charming gets there, he finds out from the Big Bad Wolf that Fiona has gone on her honeymoon. Charming is astounded.
Shrek and Fiona are on their honeymoon at Hansel's Honeymoon Hideaway. But, when Shrek and Fiona return to the swamp, they find Donkey in Shrek's alligator-skin chair, singing to himself. Shrek tells Donkey he hasn't done a very good job taking care of the place. Fiona asks Donkey if he should be getting home to Dragon, but Donkey says she's been moody lately. Finally, Shrek tells Donkey that he is interrupting their night. Donkey leaves, but then returns, telling Shrek some knights are outside of his swamp. A man, who is visiting with the knights, reads a royal page carrying a scroll inviting Fiona and Shrek to Far Far Away for a royal ball celebrating their marriage and to give her 'prince charming' their blessing. The king and queen, King Harold and Queen Lilian, are the rulers of Far Far Away and Fiona's parents. Shrek and Fiona, along with Donkey, set off to Far Far Away.
The trip isn't easy for Donkey, who keeps annoying Shrek and Fiona asking if they are there yet. After much madness, they get to Far Far Away. Once they get to the castle, a whole crowd is waiting to see Fiona and her prince charming. Doves are released, but once Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey step out of the onion carriage, the crowd gasps, along with Fiona's parents. The king and queen are stunned at Fiona's choice of marriage. They all force smiles.
That night, they all sit down to dinner. Harold stares angrily at Shrek. Shrek does not know royalty. He eats the escargots with their shells still on, he eats the water from his finger-dipping bowl, thinking it's soup. Once dinner is served, Shrek and Harold begin yelling at each other. Fiona then storms off to her room, angrily. In her room, she meets her Fairy Godmother. Shrek then enters her room and Fairy Godmother is angry at Fiona's husband. She then gives Fiona her card. But Shrek takes it and says that they are already happy. Shrek then tells Fiona they are leaving. Donkey and Fiona don't want to leave. Shrek and Fiona get into a fight, which the king overhears. Lilian then tells Harold that it was her choice. Fairy Godmother then takes Harold into her carriage and tells him to get rid of Shrek so that her son, Prince Charming can marry her.
Harold then goes to the Poison Apple pub to find an ogre killer. The bartender, Cinderella's ugly Step Sister, Doris, tells him there is only one guy that can do that sort of job. Harold then hires Puss In Boots, the cat ogre killer. That night, Shrek reads Fiona's childhood diary and is sad at the thought of her dreams of marrying a handsome prince. Harold asks Shrek if he will join him for a morning hunt the next morning, while in reality planning on Puss In Boots finding them. Harold tells Shrek it would mean the world to Fiona for them to bond, and Shrek agrees to the outing as he had promised to try to get along better with Fiona's parents.
The next morning, Shrek and Donkey are lost in the woods. Puss In Boots jumps down and surprises them. Puss attacks Shrek, while Donkey tries to get him off Shrek. Shrek finally catches the cat and Donkey suggests that they "give him the Bob Barker treatment" (neuter him) with his own sword. Puss begs to be forgiven and he and Shrek become fast friends. Shrek remembers the card Fairy Godmother gave him. He, Puss, and Donkey use it to travel to her Potion Factory. Fairy Godmother tells Shrek ogres don't live Happily Ever After. Shrek, Donkey and Puss sneak into the Potion Containment Room, where they steal the Happily Ever After potion.
Back in the woods, Shrek and Donkey drink the potion and nothing happens. Shrek sniffs the potion and sneezes on a toadstool. Once it begins to rain, Shrek, Donkey and Puss head for a barn and stay there for the night, failing to notice that once the rain touches the toadstool, it turns into a rose. Inside the barn, Shrek and Donkey faint. Back in Far Far Away, Fiona is affected by the potion too and faints. The next morning, Shrek and Donkey wake up to realize they have changed. Shrek is a handsome human while Donkey is a noble white stallion. Shrek needs to find Fiona and kiss her before midnight to stay the way they are. Donkey and Puss steal the clothes from two noblemen for Shrek and the three head off to Far Far Away. Fiona wakes up and finds herself a human again. She screams so Shrek runs inside to find her. Fiona hears his voice and runs outside while Shrek runs into her room to find Fairy Godmother. Fiona finds Donkey as a horse, who tells her Shrek went inside looking for her. She runs into Charming, who tells her he is Shrek. Harold and Lilian wake up and go to Fiona. Harold realizes Fairy Godmother and Charming's plan. Fairy Godmother tricks Shrek into thinking that Fiona loves Charming and tells him to return to his swamp and let Fiona and Charming be together.
Shrek, Donkey and Puss head off to the Poison Apple and see Harold go into the back room with Charming and Godmother. Shrek, curious, take Donkey and Puss and listen in through the window. Fairy Godmother gives Harold a potion to make Fiona fall in love with the first man she kisses. Harold initially refuses, feeling guilty over manipulating his daughter's true happiness, however Fairy Godmother reminds him that she gave him his own Happily Ever After and threatens to take it away if he doesn't go through with the potion. Fairy Godmother then sees Shrek (after Donkey gives an angry outburst) and sends knights out after him.
That night, the royal ball begins, while celebrities, like Sleeping Beauty, begin to come. The fairy tale creatures, Gingy, Pinocchio, the Three Little Pigs, the Three Blind Mice, and Wolf, watch the royal ball coverage on the Magic Mirror in Shrek's house. A commercial comes on of KNIGHTS. The show shows knights capturing Shrek, Donkey and Puss. They are thrown into a paddy wagon. When Shrek reveals his name, Gingy pauses the clip, then rewinds it, then replays it. The fairy tale creatures find out about this, and head off to rescue Shrek, Donkey and Puss.
Meanwhile, King Harold slips the potion into a cup of tea for Fiona. After he finds her up in the castle, watching the ball, she says she wants her old Shrek back. She then reaches for a cup of tea, however he tells her to take the other one, as the one she was going to take was going to be for him.
Back in the dungeon of a far away jail, the fairy tale creatures save Shrek, Donkey, and Puss and create a giant gingerbread man named Mongo with help from the Muffin Man. They use the giant cookie to break into the ball. Fiona and Charming begin to dance at the ball, while Mongo begins to pull down the drawbridge, but the guards dump hot milk on him and his arms fall off of him. Shrek manages to get through the cracks of the drawbridge and lowers it. Shrek and Donkey charge into the ballroom and the fairy tale creatures begin to fight Fairy Godmother. Fiona realizes it's not Shrek she's dancing with. Fairy Godmother tells Charming to kiss Fiona to activate the potion. But once Charming is done kissing her, she knocks him out with a head butt, revealing that Harold gave her the wrong tea on purpose, after feeling guilty about his actions. Shrek and Fiona embrace one another, but Prince Charming gets the wand and tosses it to the Fairy Godmother and she proceeds to turn on Shrek, telling once again that ogres don't live happily ever after. She then sends a blast of magic out to kill Shrek. Harold uses his armor to deflect the spell which bounces off and hits her. Fairy Godmother disappears, with only her glasses and wand left. Harold is back to his true form, a frog. Shrek and Fiona are about to kiss, but Fiona tells Shrek she wants to live happily ever after, with the ogre she married. Shrek, Fiona and Donkey return to their true forms. Harold apologizes to Shrek and tells him that he only wanted Fiona to be happy. He gives the couple his blessing and goes to leave, however Queen Lilian tells him that she still loves him, even though he's a frog. That night, the gang dance into the night, having a big party.
After the party, Donkey is all alone, singing a song. Puss and two girls are about to head off to the "Kitt Katt Klub" when Dragon comes and tells Donkey that she has had babies. Donkey and Dragon are then proud parents of a litter of donkey-dragon dronkeys.
Voice cast
Shrek ... Mike Myers (actor)
Princess Fiona ... Cameron Diaz
Donkey ... Eddie Murphy
Queen Lillian ... Julie Andrews
Puss in Boots ... Antonio Banderas
King Harold ... John Cleese
Prince Charming ... Rupert Everett
Fairy Godmother ... Jennifer Saunders
Doris ... Larry King (US)/Jonathan Ross (UK)
Shrek ... Jim Cummings (sometimes)
Guillaume Aretos ... Receptionist
Kelly Asbury ... Page/Elf/Nobleman/Nobleman's Son
Cody Cameron ... Pinocchio/ Three Little Pigs
Conrad Vernon ... Gingerbread Man/Cedric/Announcer/Muffin Man/Mongo
Billy Ray Cyrus ... Prince Shrek
Aron Warner ... Big Bad Wolf
Kelly Cooney ... Fast Food Clerk
Chris Knights ... Three Blind Mice
Mark Moseley ... Mirror/Dresser
Alina Phelan ... Maiden #1/Generic Female #2
Joan Rivers/Kate Thornton (UK version only) ... Herself
Erika Thomas ... Maiden #2
Simon Cowell ... as himself (DVD version only)
Production
Another unusual item was Joan Rivers' cameo - this marked the first time that a real person had been represented on screen by the Shrek animation team. The DVD version of the film includes a second real-life cameo with an appearance by Simon Cowell in the "Far Far Away Idol" bonus feature.
Release
Shrek 2 was originally going to release in June 2004. A day before the movie went to theaters, the first five minutes were shown on Nickelodeon's U-Pick Live.
It was the first film with over 4,000 theaters in overall count; over 3,700 theaters was its count for an opening day. Spider-Man 2 was the first film with over 4,000 theaters for an opening day and second for overall counts.
When the film was released on DVD on November 5, 2004, it was the last Shrek film to be presented in its original ratio of 1.85:1 on the Region 1 anamorphic widescreen DVD.
TV releases
This film had its US network television premiere on November 24, 2006, airing on ABC at 8 PM/7 PM ET/CT. It has yet to be aired on British terrestrial television.
The film aired for the first time on free to air television in Australia on June 3, 2007. It was broadcast simultaneously on the Nine Network and WIN Television at 8:30PM AEST (Australian Eastern Standard Time).
The film appeared on FOX Latin America (Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Venezuela, etc.) on February 4, 2007, after intensive publicity since the TV broadcast of Garfield on December 31, 2006
The film was aired on TVN in Poland on March 2, 2007
The film was aired on ProSieben in Germany on April 6, 2007
The film was aired on Canale 5 in Italy for the first time on May 23, 2007
The film was aired on Kanal 5 in Sweden for the first time on August 25, 2007
It will be shown on BBC on Xmas Day after Finding Nemo
DVD and VHS releases
This film has been released on VHS, standard DVD, and Blu-Ray DVD. The DVDs have Far Far Away Idol.
Reaction
Box office performance
Shrek 2 spent a total of 21 weeks in theaters, closing on November 25, 2004. It grossed about $440 million domestically (USA and Canada) and totaled just under 920 million USD worldwide. This puts the movie at third on the all-time domestic box-office list and ninth on the worldwide box-office list. It was also the number one grossing movie of 2004. With DVD sales and Shrek 2 merchandise are estimated to total almost $800 million USD, this is DreamWorks most profitable movie to date.
Budget - $150,000,000
Opening Weekend Gross (Domestic) - $108,037,878
Total Domestic Grosses - $441,226,247
Total Overseas Grosses - $478,612,511
Total Worldwide Grosses - $919,838,758
Critical reception
The film was well received by a number of critics, many rating it as good as or better than its predecessor. Metacritic has developed a weighted average rating of 73 out of 100 based on 39 professional reviews published in newspapers, magazines and in highly regarded Internet sites. Rotten Tomatoes gave Shrek 2 an approval rating of 88%.
13. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
(Collections: $866,300,000)
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets is the second fantasy adventure film in the popular Harry Potter films series, based on the novel by J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. The film was released on November 15, 2002 and was directed by returning director, Chris Columbus. The screenplay was adapted by returning screenwriter, Steven Kloves.Most of the major cast and crew from Philosopher's Stone (also known as Sorcerer's Stone) returned for Chamber of Secrets, including child stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint and director Chris Columbus. However, it was the last appearance by Richard Harris as Dumbledore and currently the last Harry Potter film directed by Columbus. New key actors included Kenneth Branagh as Lockhart and Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy. It remains the only film in the franchise that has not been nominated for an Academy Award.
The film was very well received at the box office making $879 million USD worldwide.
Story and Plot Point
The film opens with Harry Potter and his caged owl Hedwig staying with the Dursleys on summer break. An elf named Dobby appears in Harry’s room and warns Harry not to return to Hogwarts this fall because of terrible danger. Dobby’s disruptions result in Uncle Vernon locking Harry in his room until Harry is rescued by the Weasley brothers. Harry and Hedwig escape in the Weasleys’ flying car, and Harry finishes summer vacation at the Weasleys’ home, the Burrow. After buying their new schoolbooks, Harry and the Weasleys go to train station Platform 9 3/4, but the gateway closes on Ron and Harry before they can board the Hogwarts express. Harry and Ron use the flying car to get to Hogwarts, but the car breaks down and crashes into the sentient, angry willow tree on the school’s grounds.
New professor and celebrity wizard author Gilderoy Lockhart (Kenneth Branagh) now teaches at Hogwarts. Harry resumes quidditch practice with team Gryffindor. This year, Slytherin’s seeker is Harry’s rival Draco Malfoy, who sports a Nimbus 2001 broomstick. The ominous Chamber of Secrets (secretly located beneath the sink in the ladies’ restroom) has opened, and Professor McGonagall reveals to the students how Hogwarts' founder Salazar Slytherin built the chamber long ago. Salazar disliked muggles (non-wizard humans) and muggleborn wizards, and emerges as something of a racial supremacist. Salazar had sealed the chamber until his heir had returned to school. Professor McGonagall also reveals that the chamber is guarded by a monster.
Harry and Ron temporarily take on the form of Crabbe and Goyle to gain information from Draco Malfoy. Meanwhile, the same potion turns Hermione into a large cat, and she is unable to turn back. The inevitable Quidditch match between Slytherin and Gryffindor results in a Gryffindor victory after Harry captures the snitch , but is attacked by a rogue bludger that breaks his arm. The pompous Professor Lockhart tries to heal Harry's arm, but instead removes Harry’s arm bones. Harry's arm recovers quickly.
Odd events occur: a Muggle-born student is petrified, and young Ginny Weasley starts losing her memory. Hagrid is arrested and sent to Azkaban prison for harboring Aragog, a giant spider mistakenly thought to be the Chamber monster, and Dumbledore is removed as headmaster in the wake of all the problems. A girls’ restroom ghost named Moaning Myrtle, an original victim of the Chamber of Secrets, provides Harry and Ron with Tom Marvolo Riddle’s talking diary.
One evening, Harry and Ron are called to the hospital wing. Upon their arrival, they are directed to Hermione's bed, when they reach her, she is petrified, shocking Harry and Ron. With Hermione's petrification, leaving Ron and Harry feeling terrible for what occurred, she is unable to help the two boys. This leaves them both with the task themselves to solve the cause of events that are threatening to close Hogwarts, and have to ultimately save all those that have fallen victim to petrification.
The massive spider Aragog aids Harry and Ron in learning that the chamber is guarded by a monstrous snake called a basilisk, which kills with its gaze. Harry and Ron learn that Professor Lockhart is not the great wizard he has appeared to be, and deceives people using a memory charm. After Ginny Weasley is taking into the Chamber of Secrets, with a message left on the wall that "her skeleton will lie in the Chamber forever", Harry, Ron, and Lockhart enter the ladies room to rescue Ginny from the Chamber under the sink. Harry descends a long tunnel, and with aid from the Sorting Hat and Dumbledore’s Phoenix bird, Harry battles the Basilisk and Tom Marvolo Riddle. Riddle’s name is an anagram for “I am Lord Voldemort,” and Riddle is, in fact, the sixteen-year-old soul of Lord Voldemort, preserved in the diary. Harry kills the Basilisk with Godric Gryffindor's Sword and defeats Riddle by destroying the diary, rescuing Ginny in the process.
The petrified students and Hermione are cured. Hagrid is freed from Azkaban, elf Dobby is freed from service to the Malfoys, and Dumbledore is restored as Hogwarts’ headmaster. The film ends with Hogwarts lit up from the Great Hall.
Cast and characters
Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter: Now entering his second year at Hogwarts, Harry faces the accusation that he is the Heir of Slytherin, and responsible for the attacks on fellow students.
Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley: One of Harry's best friends. He takes his father's flying car to Hogwarts, after he and Harry miss the Hogwarts Express.
Emma Watson as Hermione Granger: One of Harry's best friends. She investigates what is really the cause of the attacks on students, only to be petrified herself.
Richard Harris as Albus Dumbledore: The Hogwarts headmaster and one of the greatest wizards of the age. He is removed from his position as the attacks increase.
Kenneth Branagh as Gilderoy Lockhart: The incredibly vain and famous Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. He is secretly completely useless, and faked all of his achievements.
Christian Coulson as Tom Marvolo Riddle: The memory of a young Lord Voldemort, imprinted into his old diary.
Bonnie Wright as Ginny Weasley: Ron's younger sister, who becomes possessed by Riddle's diary. She opens the Chamber of Secrets, under his control.
Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid: The Hogwarts groundkeeper, who is initially blamed for the attacks and sent to Azkaban. Martin Bayfield plays him in the flashback scene.
Maggie Smith as Minerva McGonagall: The Hogwarts deputy headmistress.
Alan Rickman as Severus Snape: The Hogwarts potions master.
Tom Felton as Draco Malfoy: Harry's enemy, who the trio believe to actually be the Heir of Slytherin.
Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy: Draco's father, and a former Death Eater.
Shirley Henderson as Moaning Myrtle: The ghost of a Hogwarts student killed by the Basilisk years ago.
Toby Jones as the voice of Dobby: The Malfoy's house elf, who goes behind the family's back to help Harry during the course of the year.
Robert Hardy as Cornelius Fudge: The Minister for Magic.
Julian Glover as the voice of Aragog: A giant Acromantula that lives the forest and is owned by Hagrid.
Miriam Margolyes as Pomona Sprout: The Hogwarts Herbology teacher, who creates a cure for those who are petrified.
Julie Walters and Mark Williams as Molly Weasley and Arthur Weasley: Ron's parents.
Richard Griffiths and Fiona Shaw as Vernon and Petunia Dursley: Harry's uncaring aunt and uncle.
Harry Melling as Dudley Dursley: Harry's overweight cousin.
Hugh Mitchell as Colin Creevey: A Muggle-born student who idolizes Harry.
Production
Production for Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets began on November 19, 2001, just three days after the widespread release of the first Harry Potter film. It was shot on location on the Isle of Man, in several places in Great Britain, and at Leavesden Film Studios in London. Filming finished in the summer of 2002.
Hugh Grant accepted the role of Gilderoy Lockhart, reportedly dyeing his hair blonde, but due to a scheduling conflict he had to drop out. On October 25, 2001, Kenneth Branagh was selected as Grant's replacement.
Marketing
The film's soundtrack was released on November 12, 2002. The film's scores were composed by John Williams, with some new material written by composer William Ross from adaptations of Williams' score, when he was unavailable due to time constraints. The soundtrack was conducted by William Ross. A video game based on the film was released in 2002.
Differences from the book
Very few plotlines are entirely absent from the film adaptation, although some are condensed on account of time considerations. Many of the more truncated themes were originally written in a more comprehensive form, but did not make the final cut. Many of these are included on the DVD edition as deleted scenes, including the Malfoys in Borgin and Burkes, several discussions about Harry being the heir of Slytherin, and the fight between Arthur Weasley and Lucius Malfoy in Flourish and Blotts.
The only significant deviation from the literary canon is in the effects of the Polyjuice Potion. In the book, the Potion causes the drinker to assume the exact appearance of the target, including their voice and any disabilities (such as poor eyesight). In the film adaptation, while the potion alters Harry and Ron's appearance, their voices were left unchanged to reduce confusion. This alteration is retconned in subsequent Harry Potter films – in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire Barty Crouch Jr, under the influence of the potion, perfectly assumes the voice of Alastor Moody.
A few characters were removed from the script and their lines reassigned to other characters. In particular, the ghost Professor Binns is absent from the film, so his expository scene about the Chamber of Secrets is instead given by Professor McGonnagall. Peeves is also absent from the film, as in all the other film adaptations.
Reaction
Critical reception
Reviews were generally positive, it holds an 82% "Certified Fresh" rating at Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 63 out of 100 at Metacritic representing "generally favorable reviews". Roger Ebert called The Chamber of Secrets "a phenomenal film" and gave the film 4 out of 4 stars, especially praising the set design. Entertainment Weekly commended the film for being better and darker than its predecessor: "And among the things this Harry Potter does very well indeed is deepen the darker, more frightening atmosphere for audiences. This is as it should be: Harry's story is supposed to get darker". Richard Roeper praised the directing and the films faithfulness to the book, saying: "Chris Columbus, the director, does a real wonderful job of being faithful to the story but also taking it into a cinematic era". Variety called the film "a bit overlong", but praised the film for being darker and more dramatic than The Philosopher's Stone: "it possesses a confidence and intermittent flair that begin to give it a life of its own apart of the literary franchise, something the initial picture never achieved". Dana Stevens from The New York Times said: "instead of feeling stirred you may feel battered and worn down, but not, in the end, too terribly disappointed".
Some negative criticism came from Peter Travers from The Rolling Stone condeming the film for being overlong and too faithful to the book: "Once again, director Chris Columbus takes a hat-in-hand approach to Rowling that stifles creativity and allows the film to drag on for nearly three hours". Kenneth Turan from The Los Angeles Times called the film "a cliche" and noted: "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets is deja vu all over again, it's likely that whatever you thought of the first production -- pro or con -- you'll likely think of this one".
Box office performance
The film Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets premiered in the UK on November 3, 2002 and in USA on November 14, 2002 before its widespread release on November 15, one year after the Philosopher's Stone film (November 16, 2001). The film broke multiple records upon its opening all over the world. In the U.S. the film opened to an $88.4 million opening weekend, third biggest all-tme at the time, behind only Spider-Man and its predecessor Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. In the United Kingdom the film broke all opening records that were previously held by The Philosopher's Stone. It made £18.9 million during its opening including previews and £10.9 million excluding previews, both extraordinary records.[ It went on to make £54.8 million in the U.K., the fifth biggest tally of all time at the time.
The film made a total of $879 million worldwide, which made it the fifth highest-grossing film ever at the time. It was the second highest grossing film of 2002 behind The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers worldwide. However, it was the number one film of the year at the non-American box office making about $617 million compared to The Two Towers' $584.5 million. To this day it remains as one of the highest grossing films of all time, at number 13.
Awards
On January 14, 2003, Chamber of Secrets won the award for "Best Live Action Family Film" in the Phoenix Film Critics Society Awards. It was nominated for seven Saturn Awards including for "Best Director", "Best Fantasy Film" and "Best Performance by a Younger Actor" for Daniel Radcliffe. The film was nominated for four BAFTA Awards and a Grammy Award for John Williams' score. However, currently it is the only Harry Potter film that was not nominated for any Academy Awards.
14. Finding Nemo (2003)
(Collections: $865,000,000)
Finding Nemo is an Academy Award-winning computer-animated film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released to theaters by Walt Disney Pictures and Buena Vista Distribution. It was released in the United States/Canada on May 30, 2003, in Australia on August 27, 2003 and in the UK on 10 October 2003. The movie is the fifth Disney/Pixar feature film and the first to be released during the summer seasonThe movie was released on a 2-disc DVD on November 4, 2003 in the United States and Canada, in Australia on January 16, 2004, and the UK on February 27, 2004. It went on to become the best selling DVD of all time, with 28 million copies sold. In 2005, Time magazine listed it as one of the top 100 films ever made.
Story and Plot Point
In the beginning of the film Marlin (Albert Brooks), a clownfish, loses his wife, Coral (Elizabeth Perkins), and all but one of his unborn children to a marauding barracuda. He promises that he will never let anything happen to the remaining egg which he names Nemo, because that was what Coral wanted to call at least one of their eggs, despite Marlin wanting to name half of them Coral Jr. and the other half Marlin Jr.
Years later, Nemo (Alexander Gould) — born with a deformed fin begins his first day at school and is frustrated and embarrassed by his overprotective father. This is taken to such an extreme that Nemo deliberately disobeys his father by swimming out into open water. In the process he is captured by a diver, who thinks he must be lost because he is so far out, and then immediately leaves on a speedboat.
Marlin chases after the speedboat, but soon loses it. Asking for directions, he meets Dory (Ellen DeGeneres), a blue tang who suffers from "short-term memory loss". She helps him find out Nemo has been taken to Sydney and the two of them travel there on the East Australian Current. During their time together Dory teaches Marlin to be more carefree.
Meanwhile Nemo is placed in a fish tank in a dentist's office. He discovers that he is to be the birthday present of the dentist's niece Darla (LuLu Ebeling) who is "a fish killer" according to the other fish in the tank. It appears that she simply gets over-excited and shakes the fish bag too much. Gill (Willem Dafoe), one of the fish in the tank, proposes an escape plan involving Nemo jamming the filter in the tanks, which Nemo attempts, but initially fails at.
Meanwhile, Marlin and Dory encounter several adventures during the journey. On the way, Marlin meets fish-friendly sharks, escapes an anglerfish, charges through a forest of jellyfish, travels with sea turtles on the East Australian Current and gets swallowed by a whale. The tale travels faster than Marlin by way of gossip among the sea creatures and eventually Nemo hears it from Nigel a brown pelican (Geoffrey Rush) who occasionally comes to visit the fish in the tank. Upon hearing all of his Dad's adventures, Nemo is inspired to attempt to jam the filter again. This time he is successful. The tank begins to "get really really dirty." At this point in Gill's plan, the dentist would take the fish out of the tank and into small plastic bags. The fish would then roll out the window, onto an awning, across the street and into the conveniently situated harbour. However, the dentist installs a laser filter which cleans the tank while the fish are sleeping.
Marlin and Dory meet Nigel who agrees to take them to the dentist's office. While they are en route, the dentist puts Nemo in a bag to give to his niece, but Nemo gets the idea to pretend to be dead so that the dentist will flush him down the toilet, which will take Nemo to the ocean. Marlin, Dory and Nigel arrive at the office and, seeing Nemo on his back, pretending to be dead, believe that it is true. Gill saves Nemo from getting thrown in the trash can instead of the toilet, and helps Nemo escape via the dentist's sink.
Marlin and Nemo find each other, but moments later they find that Dory is caught in a fishing net. Nemo has a plan to save her, but Marlin is reluctant to let him go for fear that he will lose him again. Marlin realizes he must let him go, and Nemo's plan succeeds. They return home and Nemo leaves for school, with Marlin telling him to "go have an adventure".
As an epilogue, the fish in the dentist's tank are shown to succeed -- after a fashion -- in their last escape attempt. However, they are still in their plastic bags, floating in the water. During the credits, it is shown they have left their bags.
Production
The movie was dedicated to Glenn McQueen, a Pixar Animator who died of melanoma in October 2002, seven months before the film was released.
Robin Williams who worked for Eisner and Disney before in Aladdin and had a bitter fall out with him and The Walt Disney Company after going back on the deal they had (which can be explained in the Aladdin page). Has hinted in an interview he refused a role in this film, because it would mean working for Michael Eisner again. He will not state which role he refused.
Characters
Reception
Finding Nemo set a record as the highest grossing opening weekend for an animated feature, making $70 million (surpassed in 2007 by Shrek the Third). It went on to gross more than $864.6 million worldwide, in the process becoming Pixar's most commercially successful film to date. The film's prominent use of clownfish prompted mass purchase of the animals for children's pets in the United States, even though the movie portrayed the use of fish as pets negatively and that saltwater aquariums are notably tricky and expensive to maintain. As of 2004, in Vanuatu, clownfish were being caught on a large scale for sale as pets, motivated by the demand.
At the same time, the film had a central theme that "all drains lead back to the ocean" (Nemo escapes from the aquarium by going down a sink drain, ending up in the sea.) Since water typically undergoes treatment before leading to the ocean, the JWC Environmental company quipped that a more realistic title for the movie might be Grinding Nemo. However, in Sydney, much of the sewer system does pass directly to outfall pipes deep offshore, without a high level of treatment (although pumping and some filtering occurs.) Additionally, according to the DVD, there was a cut sequence with Nemo going through a treatment plant's mechanisms before ending up in the ocean pipes.
Tourism in Australia strongly increased during the summer and autumn of 2003, with many tourists wanting to swim off the coast of Eastern Australia to "find Nemo." The Australian Tourism Commission (ATC) launched several marketing campaigns in China and the USA in order to improve tourism in Australia many of them using Finding Nemo movie clips. Queensland, Australia also used Finding Nemo to draw tourists to promote its state for vacationers.
Legal challenges
The similarities between the two creations sparked a long and expensive lawsuit between Pierrot author Franck Le Calvez and Walt Disney Pictures.
In late 2003, the French children's book author Franck Le Calvez claimed that Finding Nemo's story and characters were stolen from his book Pierrot Le Poisson-Clown (Pierrot the Clownfish). The idea of Pierrot was protected in 1995 and the book was released in France in November 2002. Franck Le Calvez and his lawyer, Pascal Kamina, demanded from Disney a share of the profits from merchandising articles sold in France. In March 2004, Le Calvez and Kamina lost the lawsuit. Two years later, in February 2005, a New Jersey dentist named Dennis G. Sternberg filed suit against Disney/Pixar, alleging they had plagiarised his concept for a film entitled Peanut Butter the Jelly Fish, which he had discussed with Andrew Stanton in the 1990s. Sternberg soon dropped the lawsuit, saying he could not afford to lose.
15. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
(Collections: $860,700,000)
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is a 2001 fantasy film directed by Peter Jackson. It is the opening installment of the Lord of the Rings film trilogy, based on the similarly titled first volume of J. R. R. Tolkien's epic literary fantasy, The Lord of the Rings. Set in Middle-earth, the story tells of the Dark Lord Sauron, who is seeking the One Ring. The Ring has found its way to the young hobbit Frodo Baggins. The fate of Middle-Earth hangs in the balance as Frodo and eight companions form the Fellowship of the Ring, and journey to Mount Doom in the land of Mordor: the only place where the Ring can be destroyed.
Released on December 19, 2001, the film was highly acclaimed by critics and fans alike, especially as many of the latter judged it to be sufficiently faithful to the original story. It was a box office success, earning over $870 million worldwide, and the second highest grossing film of 2001 in the U.S. and worldwide (behind Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone) which made it the 5th highest grossing film ever at the time. Today it is the 14th highest grossing worldwide film of all time. It won five BAFTAs, including Best Film and Best Director. The Special Extended DVD Edition was released on November 12, 2002. In 2007, The Fellowship of the Ring was voted number 50 on the American Film Institute's list of 100 greatest American films.
Story and Plot Point
The prologue, spoken by Galadriel, shows the Dark Lord Sauron forging the One Ring which he can use to conquer the lands of Middle-earth. A Last Alliance of Elves and Men is formed to counter Sauron's forces at the foot of Mount Doom, but Sauron kills Elendil, the High King of Men. Prince Isildur grabs Elendil's broken sword Narsil, and slashes at Sauron's hand, separating him from the Ring and vanquishing his army. However, because Sauron's life is bound in the Ring, he is not completely defeated until the Ring itself is destroyed. Isildur takes the Ring and succumbs to its temptation, refusing to destroy it. He is later ambushed and killed by orcs, and the Ring is lost in a river. The Ring is found by the creature Gollum thousands of years later, who takes it underground for five centuries, giving him "unnaturally long life." The Ring leaves him however, and is found by the hobbit Bilbo Baggins, much to the grief of Gollum. Bilbo returns to his home in the Shire with the Ring, and the story jumps forward in time sixty years.
At his 111th birthday, Bilbo leaves the Ring to his nephew and adopted heir Frodo Baggins. The Wizard Gandalf soon learns it is the One Ring, and sends him to Bree with Sam, with plans to meet him there after Gandalf goes to Isengard to meet the head of his order, Saruman. Saruman reveals that the Nazgûl, or Ringwraiths, have left Mordor to capture the Ring and kill whoever carries it; having already turned to Sauron's cause, he then imprisons Gandalf atop Orthanc. Frodo and Sam are soon joined by fellow hobbits Merry and Pippin. After encountering a Ringwraith on the road, they manage to reach Bree, and there they meet a Man called Strider, who agrees to lead them to Rivendell. They agree only because Gandalf isn't there to guide them. After some travelling, they spend the night on the hill of Weathertop, where they are attacked by the Nazgûl at night. Strider fights off the Ringwraiths, but Frodo is grievously wounded with a morgul blade, and they must quickly get him to Rivendell for healing. While chased by the Nazgûl, Frodo is taken by the elf Arwen to the elvish haven of Rivendell, and healed by her father, Elrond.
In Rivendell Frodo meets Gandalf, who explains why he didn't meet them at Bree as planned. In the meantime, there are many meetings between various peoples, and Elrond calls a council to decide what should be done with the Ring. The Ring can only be destroyed by throwing it into the fires (that is, lava) of Mount Doom, where it was forged. Mount Doom is located in Mordor, near Sauron's fortress of Barad-dûr, and will be an incredibly dangerous journey. Frodo volunteers to take the Ring to Mount Doom as all the others argue about who should or shouldn't take it. He is accompanied by his hobbit friends and Gandalf, as well as Strider, who is revealed to be Aragorn, the rightful heir to the throne of Gondor. Also travelling with them are the Elf Legolas, the Dwarf Gimli and Boromir, the son of the Steward of Gondor. Together they comprise the Fellowship of the Ring. The Fellowship set out and try to pass the mountain Caradhras, but they are stopped by Saruman's wizardry. They are forced to travel under the mountain through the Mines of Moria. After journeying partway through the Mines, Pippin accidentally gives away their presence to a band of orcs. The Fellowship then encounter a Balrog, an ancient demon of fire and shadow, at the Bridge of Khazad-dûm. Gandalf confronts the Balrog on the bridge, allowing the others to escape the mines, while he falls with the creature into the abyss below.
The group flees to the elvish realm of Lothlórien, where they are sheltered by its rulers, Galadriel and her husband Celeborn. After resting, they decide to travel on the River Anduin towards Parth Galen. Before they leave, Galadriel gives Frodo the Phial of Galadriel. After landing at Parth Galen, Boromir tries to take the Ring from Frodo, who manages to escape by putting the Ring on his finger and vanishing. Knowing that the Ring's temptation will be too strong for the Fellowship, Frodo decides to leave them and go to Mordor alone. Meanwhile, the rest of the Fellowship are attacked by Uruk-hai. Merry and Pippin, realizing that Frodo is leaving, distract the orcs, allowing Frodo to escape. Boromir rushes to the aid of the two hobbits but is mortally wounded by the orc commander Lurtz, and Merry and Pippin are captured. Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli find Boromir, who regrets attempting to steal the Ring and dies. They decide to pursue the orcs and rescue the hobbits, leaving Frodo to his fate. Sam joins Frodo before he leaves, and together the two head to Mordor.
Cast
Before filming began on October 11, 1999, the principal actors trained for six weeks in sword fighting (with Bob Anderson), riding and boating. Jackson hoped such activities would allow the cast to bond so chemistry would be evident on screen as well as getting them used to life in Wellington. They were also trained to pronounce Tolkien's verses properly. After the shoot, the nine cast members playing the Fellowship got a tattoo, the Elvish symbol for the number nine.
Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins: A hobbit who inherits the One Ring from his uncle, Bilbo Baggins. He is mostly accompanied by his best friend and fellow hobbit, Samwise Gamgee. Elijah Wood was the first actor to be cast on July 7, 1999. Wood was a fan of the book, and he sent in an audition dressed as Frodo, reading lines from the novel. Wood was selected from one-hundred-and-fifty actors who auditioned.
Sean Astin as Samwise "Sam" Gamgee: A Hobbit gardener and friend of Frodo. When caught eavesdropping, Sam is made to become Frodo's companion and from then on becomes very loyal. Astin, then a father of one, bonded with the eighteen-year old Wood in a protective manner similar to Sam and Frodo.
Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn: Dubbed Strider, he is a Dúnadan Ranger and the heir to the throne of Gondor. He travels with the Fellowship on their journey to Mordor. He is unsure of whether to become King following the failure of his ancestor, Isildur, to destroy the Ring. Nicholas Cage turned down the role because of "family obligations", whilst Vin Diesel, a fan of the book, auditioned for Aragorn, before Stuart Townsend was cast in the role, before being sacked during filming when Jackson realised he was too young. Russell Crowe was considered as a replacement, but he turned it down after a similar role in Gladiator. Producer Mark Odesky saw Mortensen in a play and it was Mortensen's son, a fan of the book, who convinced him to take the role. Mortensen read the book on the plane, received a crash course lesson in fencing from Bob Anderson and began filming the scenes on Weathertop. Mortensen became a hit with the crew, method acting by patching up his costume and carrying his "hero" sword around with him offscreen.
Ian McKellen as Gandalf the Grey: A wizard and mentor to Frodo Baggins, who helps him decide what to do with the Ring. He becomes the leader of the Fellowship after it is decided to take the Ring to Mount Doom and destroy it. Sean Connery was approached for the role, but didn't understand the plot. Before being cast, McKellen had to sort his schedule with 20th Century Fox as there was a two-month overlap with X-Men. He enjoyed playing Gandalf the Grey more than his transformed state in the next two films, and based his accent on Tolkien. Unlike his on-screen character, McKellen did not spend much time with the actors playing the Hobbits, instead working with their scale doubles.
Dominic Monaghan as Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck: A Hobbit and a friend of Frodo. He helps him find a ferry to escape the Nazgûl, travels with the Fellowship on their journey to Mordor, along with his best friend Pippin. Monaghan was cast as Merry after auditioning for Frodo.
Billy Boyd as Peregrin "Pippin" Took: A Hobbit who travels with the Fellowship on their journey to Mordor, along with his best friend Merry. He is loyal but a prankster, often being a nuisance for Gandalf.
Sean Bean as Boromir: A prince of the Stewards of Gondor, he journeys with the Fellowship towards Mordor, although he is tempted by the power of the Ring. He feels Gondor needs no King, but becomes a friend of Aragorn. Bruce Willis, a fan of the book, expressed interest in the role, while Liam Neeson was sent the script, but passed.
Orlando Bloom as Legolas: Prince of the Elves' Woodland Realm and a skilled archer who accompanies the Fellowship on their journey to Mordor. Bloom initially auditioned for Faramir, who appears in the second film, a role which went to David Wenham.
John Rhys-Davies as Gimli: A Dwarf who accompanies the Fellowship to Mordor after they set out from Rivendell. He is xenophobic towards Elves. Billy Connolly was considered for the part of Gimli. Rhys-Davies wore heavy prosthetics to play Gimli, which limited his vision, and eventually he developed eczema around his eyes.
Christopher Lee as Saruman the White: The fallen head of the Istari Order, who succumbed to Sauron's will via his use of the palantír. After capturing Gandalf, he creates an army of Uruk-hai to find and capture the Ring from the Fellowship. Lee is a major fan of the book, and reads it once a year. He has also met J. R. R. Tolkien. He originally auditioned for Gandalf, but was too old.
Sala Baker portrays Sauron: The main antagonist and title character of the story, who created the One Ring to conquer Middle-earth. He lost the Ring to Isildur, and now seeks it in order to initiate his reign over Middle-earth. He cannot yet take physical form, and is spiritually incarnate as an Eye.
Hugo Weaving as Elrond: The Elven master of Rivendell, who leads the Council of Elrond which ultimately decides to destroy the One Ring. He lost faith in the strength of Men after witnessing Isildur's failure 3000 years before. David Bowie expressed interest in the role, but Jackson stated, "To have a famous, beloved character and a famous star colliding is slightly uncomfortable."
Cate Blanchett as Galadriel: Galadriel is the co-ruler of Lothlórien and a mighty Elf, along with her husband Lord Celeborn. She shows Frodo a possible outcome of events in her mirror and gives him the Light of Eärendil.
Liv Tyler as Arwen: An elf, Arwen escorts Frodo to Rivendell after he is stabbed by the Witch-king. She is the daughter of Elrond and lover of Aragorn, and she gives him the Evenstar necklace. The filmmakers approached Tyler after seeing her performance in Plunkett & Macleane, and New Line Cinema leaped at the opportunity of having one Hollywood star in the film. Tyler came to shoot on short occasions, and bonded most with Bloom.
Ian Holm as Bilbo Baggins: Frodo's uncle who gives him the Ring after he decides to retire to Rivendell. At Rivendell, he gives Frodo a mithril mail-shirt and his own sword, Sting, which can detect the presence of nearby orcs. Holm previously played Frodo in a 1981 radio version of The Lord of the Rings, and was cast as Bilbo after Jackson remembered his performance.
Lawrence Makoare as Lurtz: The commander of Saruman's orc forces who leads the hunt for the Fellowship as they head to Mordor.
Comparison with the source material
Jackson, Walsh and Boyens made numerous changes to the story, for purposes of pacing and character development. Jackson said his main desire was to make a film focused primarily on Frodo and the Ring, the "backbone" of the story. The prologue condenses Tolkien's backstory, in which The Last Alliance's seven year siege of the Barad-dûr is a single battle, where Elendil is simply killed by Sauron, and his defeat is a quick swipe from Isildur using the broken Narsil. Sauron is shown to explode, though Tolkien only said his spirit flees. Isildur keeps the One Ring as a commemorative, but is not corrupted by it as described in the narration. He is advised to destroy the Ring, but nothing is said of him and Elrond actually going to the Cracks of Doom as shown later on with Elrond and Gandalf's discussion.
Events at the beginning of the film are condensed or omitted altogether. In the book, the time between Gandalf leaving the Ring to Frodo and returning to reveal its inscription is 17 years, which is compressed for timing reasons. Frodo also spends a few months preparing for his journey to Bree which is compressed to a day, to increase dramatic tension. Also compressed is up to when Frodo and Sam leave Bag End and the meeting of Merry and Pippin. Characters such as Tom Bombadil are left out for plotting reasons as well as increasing the threat of the Ringwraiths. Such sequences are left out to make time for Saruman, who in the book only appears in flashback until The Two Towers. Gandalf's capture is also expanded with a fight sequence. Saruman's role is enhanced: he is to blame for the blizzard on Caradhras, a role taken from a spirit in the book.
A significant new addition is that Aragorn must overcome his self-doubt to claim the kingship. This element is not present in the book, where Aragorn intends to claim the throne at an appropriate time. He reforges Narsil immediately when he joins the Fellowship, but this event is held over until The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King film. All this was done because of Peter Jackson's belief in "character growth", the idea that every character must change or learn something over the course of the story. Arwen Evenstar also has a greater role in the film, replacing the book's character of Glorfindel in rescuing Frodo, a surviving element of her earlier warrior princess incarnation in the script that survived due to being shot early on. Elrond is also different from his counterpart in the printed novel; in the film he doubts the strength of Men to survive without a King. Jackson also skims the Council of Elrond into establishing the Ring quest, by moving exposition from the chapter into earlier parts of the film.
The book simply stops in terms of dramatic structure, as Tolkien wrote it as a single story published as three. Jackson's finale is played as a climactic battle, to which he introduces the (unnamed) antagonist referred to as Lurtz in the script. In the book the battle leading to Boromir's death is told in flashback in the second volume, but in the film their encounter is shown in real time. Adding to a satisfactory ending before the wait for the next film, Aragorn is aware of Frodo's decision to leave, whereas in the book the Fellowship is in chaos.
Production
Jackson began working with Christian Rivers to storyboard the trilogy in August 1997, as well as getting Richard Taylor and Weta Workshop to begin creating his interpretation of Middle-earth. Jackson told them to make Middle-earth as plausible and believable as possible, to think of Middle-earth in a historical manner.
In November, Alan Lee and John Howe became the primary conceptual designers for the film trilogy, having had previous experience as illustrators for the book and various other tie-ins. Lee worked for the Art Department creating places such as Rivendell, Isengard, Moria and Lothlórien, giving art nouveau and geometry influences to the Elves and Dwarves respectively. Though Howe contributed with Bag End and the Argonath, he focused working on armour having studied it all his life. Weta and the Art Department continued to design, with Grant Major turning the Art Department's designs into architecture, and Dan Hennah scouting locations. On April 1, 1999, Ngila Dickson joined the crew as costume designer. She and 40 seamstresses would create 19,000 costumes, 40 per version for the actor and their doubles, ageing and wearing them out for impression of age.
Years later, Nemo (Alexander Gould) — born with a deformed fin begins his first day at school and is frustrated and embarrassed by his overprotective father. This is taken to such an extreme that Nemo deliberately disobeys his father by swimming out into open water. In the process he is captured by a diver, who thinks he must be lost because he is so far out, and then immediately leaves on a speedboat.
Marlin chases after the speedboat, but soon loses it. Asking for directions, he meets Dory (Ellen DeGeneres), a blue tang who suffers from "short-term memory loss". She helps him find out Nemo has been taken to Sydney and the two of them travel there on the East Australian Current. During their time together Dory teaches Marlin to be more carefree.
Meanwhile Nemo is placed in a fish tank in a dentist's office. He discovers that he is to be the birthday present of the dentist's niece Darla (LuLu Ebeling) who is "a fish killer" according to the other fish in the tank. It appears that she simply gets over-excited and shakes the fish bag too much. Gill (Willem Dafoe), one of the fish in the tank, proposes an escape plan involving Nemo jamming the filter in the tanks, which Nemo attempts, but initially fails at.
Meanwhile, Marlin and Dory encounter several adventures during the journey. On the way, Marlin meets fish-friendly sharks, escapes an anglerfish, charges through a forest of jellyfish, travels with sea turtles on the East Australian Current and gets swallowed by a whale. The tale travels faster than Marlin by way of gossip among the sea creatures and eventually Nemo hears it from Nigel a brown pelican (Geoffrey Rush) who occasionally comes to visit the fish in the tank. Upon hearing all of his Dad's adventures, Nemo is inspired to attempt to jam the filter again. This time he is successful. The tank begins to "get really really dirty." At this point in Gill's plan, the dentist would take the fish out of the tank and into small plastic bags. The fish would then roll out the window, onto an awning, across the street and into the conveniently situated harbour. However, the dentist installs a laser filter which cleans the tank while the fish are sleeping.
Marlin and Dory meet Nigel who agrees to take them to the dentist's office. While they are en route, the dentist puts Nemo in a bag to give to his niece, but Nemo gets the idea to pretend to be dead so that the dentist will flush him down the toilet, which will take Nemo to the ocean. Marlin, Dory and Nigel arrive at the office and, seeing Nemo on his back, pretending to be dead, believe that it is true. Gill saves Nemo from getting thrown in the trash can instead of the toilet, and helps Nemo escape via the dentist's sink.
Marlin and Nemo find each other, but moments later they find that Dory is caught in a fishing net. Nemo has a plan to save her, but Marlin is reluctant to let him go for fear that he will lose him again. Marlin realizes he must let him go, and Nemo's plan succeeds. They return home and Nemo leaves for school, with Marlin telling him to "go have an adventure".
As an epilogue, the fish in the dentist's tank are shown to succeed -- after a fashion -- in their last escape attempt. However, they are still in their plastic bags, floating in the water. During the credits, it is shown they have left their bags.
Production
The movie was dedicated to Glenn McQueen, a Pixar Animator who died of melanoma in October 2002, seven months before the film was released.
Robin Williams who worked for Eisner and Disney before in Aladdin and had a bitter fall out with him and The Walt Disney Company after going back on the deal they had (which can be explained in the Aladdin page). Has hinted in an interview he refused a role in this film, because it would mean working for Michael Eisner again. He will not state which role he refused.
Characters
Reception
Finding Nemo set a record as the highest grossing opening weekend for an animated feature, making $70 million (surpassed in 2007 by Shrek the Third). It went on to gross more than $864.6 million worldwide, in the process becoming Pixar's most commercially successful film to date. The film's prominent use of clownfish prompted mass purchase of the animals for children's pets in the United States, even though the movie portrayed the use of fish as pets negatively and that saltwater aquariums are notably tricky and expensive to maintain. As of 2004, in Vanuatu, clownfish were being caught on a large scale for sale as pets, motivated by the demand.
At the same time, the film had a central theme that "all drains lead back to the ocean" (Nemo escapes from the aquarium by going down a sink drain, ending up in the sea.) Since water typically undergoes treatment before leading to the ocean, the JWC Environmental company quipped that a more realistic title for the movie might be Grinding Nemo. However, in Sydney, much of the sewer system does pass directly to outfall pipes deep offshore, without a high level of treatment (although pumping and some filtering occurs.) Additionally, according to the DVD, there was a cut sequence with Nemo going through a treatment plant's mechanisms before ending up in the ocean pipes.
Tourism in Australia strongly increased during the summer and autumn of 2003, with many tourists wanting to swim off the coast of Eastern Australia to "find Nemo." The Australian Tourism Commission (ATC) launched several marketing campaigns in China and the USA in order to improve tourism in Australia many of them using Finding Nemo movie clips. Queensland, Australia also used Finding Nemo to draw tourists to promote its state for vacationers.
Legal challenges
The similarities between the two creations sparked a long and expensive lawsuit between Pierrot author Franck Le Calvez and Walt Disney Pictures.
In late 2003, the French children's book author Franck Le Calvez claimed that Finding Nemo's story and characters were stolen from his book Pierrot Le Poisson-Clown (Pierrot the Clownfish). The idea of Pierrot was protected in 1995 and the book was released in France in November 2002. Franck Le Calvez and his lawyer, Pascal Kamina, demanded from Disney a share of the profits from merchandising articles sold in France. In March 2004, Le Calvez and Kamina lost the lawsuit. Two years later, in February 2005, a New Jersey dentist named Dennis G. Sternberg filed suit against Disney/Pixar, alleging they had plagiarised his concept for a film entitled Peanut Butter the Jelly Fish, which he had discussed with Andrew Stanton in the 1990s. Sternberg soon dropped the lawsuit, saying he could not afford to lose.
15. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
(Collections: $860,700,000)
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is a 2001 fantasy film directed by Peter Jackson. It is the opening installment of the Lord of the Rings film trilogy, based on the similarly titled first volume of J. R. R. Tolkien's epic literary fantasy, The Lord of the Rings. Set in Middle-earth, the story tells of the Dark Lord Sauron, who is seeking the One Ring. The Ring has found its way to the young hobbit Frodo Baggins. The fate of Middle-Earth hangs in the balance as Frodo and eight companions form the Fellowship of the Ring, and journey to Mount Doom in the land of Mordor: the only place where the Ring can be destroyed.Released on December 19, 2001, the film was highly acclaimed by critics and fans alike, especially as many of the latter judged it to be sufficiently faithful to the original story. It was a box office success, earning over $870 million worldwide, and the second highest grossing film of 2001 in the U.S. and worldwide (behind Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone) which made it the 5th highest grossing film ever at the time. Today it is the 14th highest grossing worldwide film of all time. It won five BAFTAs, including Best Film and Best Director. The Special Extended DVD Edition was released on November 12, 2002. In 2007, The Fellowship of the Ring was voted number 50 on the American Film Institute's list of 100 greatest American films.
Story and Plot Point
The prologue, spoken by Galadriel, shows the Dark Lord Sauron forging the One Ring which he can use to conquer the lands of Middle-earth. A Last Alliance of Elves and Men is formed to counter Sauron's forces at the foot of Mount Doom, but Sauron kills Elendil, the High King of Men. Prince Isildur grabs Elendil's broken sword Narsil, and slashes at Sauron's hand, separating him from the Ring and vanquishing his army. However, because Sauron's life is bound in the Ring, he is not completely defeated until the Ring itself is destroyed. Isildur takes the Ring and succumbs to its temptation, refusing to destroy it. He is later ambushed and killed by orcs, and the Ring is lost in a river. The Ring is found by the creature Gollum thousands of years later, who takes it underground for five centuries, giving him "unnaturally long life." The Ring leaves him however, and is found by the hobbit Bilbo Baggins, much to the grief of Gollum. Bilbo returns to his home in the Shire with the Ring, and the story jumps forward in time sixty years.
At his 111th birthday, Bilbo leaves the Ring to his nephew and adopted heir Frodo Baggins. The Wizard Gandalf soon learns it is the One Ring, and sends him to Bree with Sam, with plans to meet him there after Gandalf goes to Isengard to meet the head of his order, Saruman. Saruman reveals that the Nazgûl, or Ringwraiths, have left Mordor to capture the Ring and kill whoever carries it; having already turned to Sauron's cause, he then imprisons Gandalf atop Orthanc. Frodo and Sam are soon joined by fellow hobbits Merry and Pippin. After encountering a Ringwraith on the road, they manage to reach Bree, and there they meet a Man called Strider, who agrees to lead them to Rivendell. They agree only because Gandalf isn't there to guide them. After some travelling, they spend the night on the hill of Weathertop, where they are attacked by the Nazgûl at night. Strider fights off the Ringwraiths, but Frodo is grievously wounded with a morgul blade, and they must quickly get him to Rivendell for healing. While chased by the Nazgûl, Frodo is taken by the elf Arwen to the elvish haven of Rivendell, and healed by her father, Elrond.
In Rivendell Frodo meets Gandalf, who explains why he didn't meet them at Bree as planned. In the meantime, there are many meetings between various peoples, and Elrond calls a council to decide what should be done with the Ring. The Ring can only be destroyed by throwing it into the fires (that is, lava) of Mount Doom, where it was forged. Mount Doom is located in Mordor, near Sauron's fortress of Barad-dûr, and will be an incredibly dangerous journey. Frodo volunteers to take the Ring to Mount Doom as all the others argue about who should or shouldn't take it. He is accompanied by his hobbit friends and Gandalf, as well as Strider, who is revealed to be Aragorn, the rightful heir to the throne of Gondor. Also travelling with them are the Elf Legolas, the Dwarf Gimli and Boromir, the son of the Steward of Gondor. Together they comprise the Fellowship of the Ring. The Fellowship set out and try to pass the mountain Caradhras, but they are stopped by Saruman's wizardry. They are forced to travel under the mountain through the Mines of Moria. After journeying partway through the Mines, Pippin accidentally gives away their presence to a band of orcs. The Fellowship then encounter a Balrog, an ancient demon of fire and shadow, at the Bridge of Khazad-dûm. Gandalf confronts the Balrog on the bridge, allowing the others to escape the mines, while he falls with the creature into the abyss below.
The group flees to the elvish realm of Lothlórien, where they are sheltered by its rulers, Galadriel and her husband Celeborn. After resting, they decide to travel on the River Anduin towards Parth Galen. Before they leave, Galadriel gives Frodo the Phial of Galadriel. After landing at Parth Galen, Boromir tries to take the Ring from Frodo, who manages to escape by putting the Ring on his finger and vanishing. Knowing that the Ring's temptation will be too strong for the Fellowship, Frodo decides to leave them and go to Mordor alone. Meanwhile, the rest of the Fellowship are attacked by Uruk-hai. Merry and Pippin, realizing that Frodo is leaving, distract the orcs, allowing Frodo to escape. Boromir rushes to the aid of the two hobbits but is mortally wounded by the orc commander Lurtz, and Merry and Pippin are captured. Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli find Boromir, who regrets attempting to steal the Ring and dies. They decide to pursue the orcs and rescue the hobbits, leaving Frodo to his fate. Sam joins Frodo before he leaves, and together the two head to Mordor.
Cast
Before filming began on October 11, 1999, the principal actors trained for six weeks in sword fighting (with Bob Anderson), riding and boating. Jackson hoped such activities would allow the cast to bond so chemistry would be evident on screen as well as getting them used to life in Wellington. They were also trained to pronounce Tolkien's verses properly. After the shoot, the nine cast members playing the Fellowship got a tattoo, the Elvish symbol for the number nine.
Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins: A hobbit who inherits the One Ring from his uncle, Bilbo Baggins. He is mostly accompanied by his best friend and fellow hobbit, Samwise Gamgee. Elijah Wood was the first actor to be cast on July 7, 1999. Wood was a fan of the book, and he sent in an audition dressed as Frodo, reading lines from the novel. Wood was selected from one-hundred-and-fifty actors who auditioned.
Sean Astin as Samwise "Sam" Gamgee: A Hobbit gardener and friend of Frodo. When caught eavesdropping, Sam is made to become Frodo's companion and from then on becomes very loyal. Astin, then a father of one, bonded with the eighteen-year old Wood in a protective manner similar to Sam and Frodo.
Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn: Dubbed Strider, he is a Dúnadan Ranger and the heir to the throne of Gondor. He travels with the Fellowship on their journey to Mordor. He is unsure of whether to become King following the failure of his ancestor, Isildur, to destroy the Ring. Nicholas Cage turned down the role because of "family obligations", whilst Vin Diesel, a fan of the book, auditioned for Aragorn, before Stuart Townsend was cast in the role, before being sacked during filming when Jackson realised he was too young. Russell Crowe was considered as a replacement, but he turned it down after a similar role in Gladiator. Producer Mark Odesky saw Mortensen in a play and it was Mortensen's son, a fan of the book, who convinced him to take the role. Mortensen read the book on the plane, received a crash course lesson in fencing from Bob Anderson and began filming the scenes on Weathertop. Mortensen became a hit with the crew, method acting by patching up his costume and carrying his "hero" sword around with him offscreen.
Ian McKellen as Gandalf the Grey: A wizard and mentor to Frodo Baggins, who helps him decide what to do with the Ring. He becomes the leader of the Fellowship after it is decided to take the Ring to Mount Doom and destroy it. Sean Connery was approached for the role, but didn't understand the plot. Before being cast, McKellen had to sort his schedule with 20th Century Fox as there was a two-month overlap with X-Men. He enjoyed playing Gandalf the Grey more than his transformed state in the next two films, and based his accent on Tolkien. Unlike his on-screen character, McKellen did not spend much time with the actors playing the Hobbits, instead working with their scale doubles.
Dominic Monaghan as Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck: A Hobbit and a friend of Frodo. He helps him find a ferry to escape the Nazgûl, travels with the Fellowship on their journey to Mordor, along with his best friend Pippin. Monaghan was cast as Merry after auditioning for Frodo.
Billy Boyd as Peregrin "Pippin" Took: A Hobbit who travels with the Fellowship on their journey to Mordor, along with his best friend Merry. He is loyal but a prankster, often being a nuisance for Gandalf.
Sean Bean as Boromir: A prince of the Stewards of Gondor, he journeys with the Fellowship towards Mordor, although he is tempted by the power of the Ring. He feels Gondor needs no King, but becomes a friend of Aragorn. Bruce Willis, a fan of the book, expressed interest in the role, while Liam Neeson was sent the script, but passed.
Orlando Bloom as Legolas: Prince of the Elves' Woodland Realm and a skilled archer who accompanies the Fellowship on their journey to Mordor. Bloom initially auditioned for Faramir, who appears in the second film, a role which went to David Wenham.
John Rhys-Davies as Gimli: A Dwarf who accompanies the Fellowship to Mordor after they set out from Rivendell. He is xenophobic towards Elves. Billy Connolly was considered for the part of Gimli. Rhys-Davies wore heavy prosthetics to play Gimli, which limited his vision, and eventually he developed eczema around his eyes.
Christopher Lee as Saruman the White: The fallen head of the Istari Order, who succumbed to Sauron's will via his use of the palantír. After capturing Gandalf, he creates an army of Uruk-hai to find and capture the Ring from the Fellowship. Lee is a major fan of the book, and reads it once a year. He has also met J. R. R. Tolkien. He originally auditioned for Gandalf, but was too old.
Sala Baker portrays Sauron: The main antagonist and title character of the story, who created the One Ring to conquer Middle-earth. He lost the Ring to Isildur, and now seeks it in order to initiate his reign over Middle-earth. He cannot yet take physical form, and is spiritually incarnate as an Eye.
Hugo Weaving as Elrond: The Elven master of Rivendell, who leads the Council of Elrond which ultimately decides to destroy the One Ring. He lost faith in the strength of Men after witnessing Isildur's failure 3000 years before. David Bowie expressed interest in the role, but Jackson stated, "To have a famous, beloved character and a famous star colliding is slightly uncomfortable."
Cate Blanchett as Galadriel: Galadriel is the co-ruler of Lothlórien and a mighty Elf, along with her husband Lord Celeborn. She shows Frodo a possible outcome of events in her mirror and gives him the Light of Eärendil.
Liv Tyler as Arwen: An elf, Arwen escorts Frodo to Rivendell after he is stabbed by the Witch-king. She is the daughter of Elrond and lover of Aragorn, and she gives him the Evenstar necklace. The filmmakers approached Tyler after seeing her performance in Plunkett & Macleane, and New Line Cinema leaped at the opportunity of having one Hollywood star in the film. Tyler came to shoot on short occasions, and bonded most with Bloom.
Ian Holm as Bilbo Baggins: Frodo's uncle who gives him the Ring after he decides to retire to Rivendell. At Rivendell, he gives Frodo a mithril mail-shirt and his own sword, Sting, which can detect the presence of nearby orcs. Holm previously played Frodo in a 1981 radio version of The Lord of the Rings, and was cast as Bilbo after Jackson remembered his performance.
Lawrence Makoare as Lurtz: The commander of Saruman's orc forces who leads the hunt for the Fellowship as they head to Mordor.
Comparison with the source material
Jackson, Walsh and Boyens made numerous changes to the story, for purposes of pacing and character development. Jackson said his main desire was to make a film focused primarily on Frodo and the Ring, the "backbone" of the story. The prologue condenses Tolkien's backstory, in which The Last Alliance's seven year siege of the Barad-dûr is a single battle, where Elendil is simply killed by Sauron, and his defeat is a quick swipe from Isildur using the broken Narsil. Sauron is shown to explode, though Tolkien only said his spirit flees. Isildur keeps the One Ring as a commemorative, but is not corrupted by it as described in the narration. He is advised to destroy the Ring, but nothing is said of him and Elrond actually going to the Cracks of Doom as shown later on with Elrond and Gandalf's discussion.
Events at the beginning of the film are condensed or omitted altogether. In the book, the time between Gandalf leaving the Ring to Frodo and returning to reveal its inscription is 17 years, which is compressed for timing reasons. Frodo also spends a few months preparing for his journey to Bree which is compressed to a day, to increase dramatic tension. Also compressed is up to when Frodo and Sam leave Bag End and the meeting of Merry and Pippin. Characters such as Tom Bombadil are left out for plotting reasons as well as increasing the threat of the Ringwraiths. Such sequences are left out to make time for Saruman, who in the book only appears in flashback until The Two Towers. Gandalf's capture is also expanded with a fight sequence. Saruman's role is enhanced: he is to blame for the blizzard on Caradhras, a role taken from a spirit in the book.
A significant new addition is that Aragorn must overcome his self-doubt to claim the kingship. This element is not present in the book, where Aragorn intends to claim the throne at an appropriate time. He reforges Narsil immediately when he joins the Fellowship, but this event is held over until The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King film. All this was done because of Peter Jackson's belief in "character growth", the idea that every character must change or learn something over the course of the story. Arwen Evenstar also has a greater role in the film, replacing the book's character of Glorfindel in rescuing Frodo, a surviving element of her earlier warrior princess incarnation in the script that survived due to being shot early on. Elrond is also different from his counterpart in the printed novel; in the film he doubts the strength of Men to survive without a King. Jackson also skims the Council of Elrond into establishing the Ring quest, by moving exposition from the chapter into earlier parts of the film.
The book simply stops in terms of dramatic structure, as Tolkien wrote it as a single story published as three. Jackson's finale is played as a climactic battle, to which he introduces the (unnamed) antagonist referred to as Lurtz in the script. In the book the battle leading to Boromir's death is told in flashback in the second volume, but in the film their encounter is shown in real time. Adding to a satisfactory ending before the wait for the next film, Aragorn is aware of Frodo's decision to leave, whereas in the book the Fellowship is in chaos.
Production
Jackson began working with Christian Rivers to storyboard the trilogy in August 1997, as well as getting Richard Taylor and Weta Workshop to begin creating his interpretation of Middle-earth. Jackson told them to make Middle-earth as plausible and believable as possible, to think of Middle-earth in a historical manner.
In November, Alan Lee and John Howe became the primary conceptual designers for the film trilogy, having had previous experience as illustrators for the book and various other tie-ins. Lee worked for the Art Department creating places such as Rivendell, Isengard, Moria and Lothlórien, giving art nouveau and geometry influences to the Elves and Dwarves respectively. Though Howe contributed with Bag End and the Argonath, he focused working on armour having studied it all his life. Weta and the Art Department continued to design, with Grant Major turning the Art Department's designs into architecture, and Dan Hennah scouting locations. On April 1, 1999, Ngila Dickson joined the crew as costume designer. She and 40 seamstresses would create 19,000 costumes, 40 per version for the actor and their doubles, ageing and wearing them out for impression of age.
Special effects
The Fellowship of the Ring makes extensive use of digital, practical and make-up special effects throughout. One noticeable illusion that appears in almost every scene involves setting a proper scale so that the characters are all the correct height. Elijah Wood, who plays Frodo, is 5ft 6in (1.68 m) tall in real life, but the character of Frodo Baggins is barely four feet in height. Many different tricks were used to depict the hobbits (and Gimli the Dwarf) as being of diminutive stature. (As a matter of good fortune, John-Rhys Davies — who played Gimli — is as tall compared to the hobbit actors as his character needed to be compared to theirs, so he did not need to be filmed separately as a third variation of height.) Large and small scale doubles were used in certain scenes, while entire duplicates of certain sets (including Bag End in Hobbiton) were built at two different scales, so that the characters would appear to be the appropriate size. At one point in the film, Frodo runs along a corridor in Bag End, followed by Gandalf. Elijah Wood and Ian McKellen were filmed in separate versions of the same corridor, built at two different scales, and a fast camera pan conceals the edit between the two. Forced perspective was also employed, so that it would look as though the short hobbits were interacting with taller Men and Elves. Even the simple ruse of kneeling down, to the film makers' surprise, turned out to be an effective method in the making of this illusion.
For the battle between the Last Alliance and the forces of Sauron that begins the film, an elaborate CGI animation system, called Massive, was developed by Stephen Regelous that would allow thousands of individual animated "characters" in the program to act independently. This helped give the illusion of realism to the battle sequences. The "Making of" of the Lord of the Rings DVD reports of some interesting initial problems: In the first execution of a battle between groups of characters, the wrong groups attacked each other. In another early demo, some of the warriors at the edge of the field could be seen running away. The reason was not that they were programmed for cowardice (or survival) and could not see the enemy so they just ran away, but that they were initially moving in the wrong direction, and had been programmed to keep running until they encountered an enemy.
The digital creatures were important due to Jackson's requirement of biological plausibility. All were scanned from large maquettes before numerous digital detail of their skeletons and muscles. In the case of the Balrog, Gary Horsfield created a system that copied recorded imagery of fire.
Score
The musical score for the Lord of the Rings films was composed by Howard Shore. It was performed by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, The London Philharmonic Orchestra, The London Voices and featured several vocal soloists. Two original songs, Aníron, and the end title theme "May It Be", were composed and sung by Enya, who allowed her label, Reprise Records, to release the soundtrack to this and its two sequels. In addition to this Shore composed "In Dreams" which was sung by Edward Ross of the London Oratory School Schola.
Awards
In 2002 the movie won four Academy Awards out of thirteen nominations. The winning categories were for Best Cinematography, Best Effects (Visual Effects), Best Makeup, and Best Music (Original Score). Despite its praise by fans, the other nominated categories of Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Ian McKellen), Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Music (Best Song) (Enya, Nicky Ryan and Roma Ryan for "May It Be"), Best Picture, Best Sound, Costume Design and Best Writing (Best Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published) were not won.
The movie won the 2002 Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation. It also won Empire readers' Best Film award, as well as five BAFTAs, including Best Film, the David Lean Award for Direction, the Audience Award (voted for by the public), Best Special Effects, and Best Make-up. After the close of its theatrical run, it ranked in the top ten highest grossing movies worldwide, with takings of $860,700,000 USA dollars from world-wide theatrical box office receipts.
DVD release
Extended Edition
The success of the theatrical cut of the film brought about an Extended Edition (208 minutes), with new editing, added special effects and music. This version was released on DVD November 12, 2002 along with four commentaries and hours of supplementary material. It was so successful that the sequels were each given similar releases.
Notable among the restored scenes is a new beginning to the film (following the prologue) and many character-building elements, showing sides of various protagonists (notably Aragorn and Galadriel) that were absent from the theatrical cut, which was largely edited around the character of Frodo. Additional scenes included:
Isildur's death.
Bilbo's opening narration "Concerning Hobbits".
Bilbo at Bag-End avoiding the Sackville-Bagginses.
Bilbo and Frodo dialogue at the party scene, while avoiding the Sackville-Bagginses.
The Hobbits at the Green Dragon.
Frodo and Sam seeing Wood Elves making their way to the Grey Havens on their first day of their journey across the Shire.
The crossing of Midgewater.
Aragorn singing "The Lay of Lúthien".
Sam shows Frodo the trolls when they are at Trollshaws.
Gandalf reciting Black Speech at the Council of Elrond.
Aragorn visiting his mother's grave.
The Fellowship given a goodbye at Rivendell.
Gandalf warning Frodo about Boromir near Moria.
Lothlórien panorama added.
Sam's poem about Gandalf's fireworks.
The Fellowship have flashbacks from when they were given their gifts from Galadriel.
Celeborn and Aragorn have a conversation in a flashback.
Aragorn and Boromir seeing Gollum on a log.
Fan Club credits.
An Easter Egg is present on the first DVD of some editions of the extended edition. It does not appear in the UK version because the film was only rated a PG, however this spoof was rated a 12. It can be accessed by going to the final page of the chapter menu and then scrolling down until a golden ring appears. The Easter Egg is a parody of the Council of Elrond scene and stars Jack Black and Sarah Michelle Gellar. Additionally, on the second disk of the extended edition, there is another Easter egg. It can be accessed by going to the final page of the chapter menu and scrolling down under the chapter numbers (like 30-33). Go to the bottom and a silhouette of two towers will appear. It is a special trailer for "The Two Towers" that was added on during the end of the theatrical run of the movie.
16. Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)
(Collections: $848,462,555)
Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith is a 2005 space opera film written and directed by George Lucas. It is the sixth and final film released in the Star Wars saga and the third in terms of the series' internal chronology.
The film is set three years after the onset of the Clone Wars; the noble Jedi Knights are spread out across the galaxy leading a massive clone army in the war against the Separatists. After Chancellor Palpatine is kidnapped, Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi and his former padawan, Anakin Skywalker, are dispatched to eliminate the evil General Grievous. Meanwhile, Anakin's friendship with the Chancellor arouses suspicion in the Jedi Order, and dangerous to the Jedi Knight himself. When the sinister Sith Lord, Darth Sidious, unveils a plot to take over the galaxy, the fate of Anakin, the Jedi order, and the entire galaxy is at stake.
The film was released in theatres on May 19, 2005, and received generally positive reviews from critics, especially in contrast to the previous two prequels. It broke several box office records during its opening week, and went on to earn over US$850 million worldwide, making it the second highest grossing film in the Star Wars franchise. It was the highest grossing film of 2005 in the U.S., the second highest grossing film of 2005 worldwide behind Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
Story and Plot Point
The opening crawl reveals that the galaxy is in the midst of the Clone Wars. Chancellor Palpatine has been kidnapped by the Separatists' second-in-command, General Grievous. Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker and Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi lead a mission to rescue him. After killing Sith Lord Count Dooku and freeing the Chancellor, the Jedi attempt to escape, but are captured by General Grievous. Anakin and Obi-Wan manage to break free, but Grievous escapes and traps the Jedi and the Chancellor inside the severely damaged cruiser. Anakin is forced to crash-land the ship on one of Coruscant's landing tracks.
Upon his return, Anakin is reunited with his wife, Padmé Amidala, who tells him that she is pregnant. Despite Padmé's worries over their secret marriage, Anakin is overjoyed at this news, and the couple makes plans to raise their child. However, Anakin is troubled by visions of Padmé dying in childbirth, visions similar to those he had of his mother just before she died. Later, Obi-Wan privately tells Anakin that the Council wants him to spy on the Chancellor because they believe him to be corrupt, an order Anakin resents since the Chancellor has become a mentor to him. As the Chancellor's bodyguard, Anakin develops a close friendship with Palpatine, who subtly manipulates Anakin in their discussions, making him distrust the Jedi. Palpatine claims to know of an ability to prevent death.
Obi-Wan is sent to Utapau, where he engages and kills General Grievous. Meanwhile, back on Coruscant, Palpatine reveals himself to Anakin as the Sith Lord Darth Sidious, who has been controlling the Republic and the Separatist movement. Anakin leaves to expose him to the Jedi Council. Jedi Master Mace Windu arrives at the Chancellor's office shortly thereafter and eventually subdues Sidious in a lightsaber duel. Just as Anakin arrives, Windu is about to kill Sidious. Anakin quickly disarms Windu, believing Sidious holds the only way to save his wife. Windu is consumed by Sidious' torrents of Force lightning, throwing him out a window to his death. Anakin then submits to the dark side of the Force and becomes Sidious' Sith apprentice: Darth Vader. He then orders Vader to kill all Jedi within the Jedi Temple, then to go to the Mustafar system and eliminate the Separatist leaders.
Darth Sidious orders clone troopers across the galaxy to turn against their Jedi Generals by enacting a pre-programmed directive, Order 66. Numerous Jedi across the galaxy are seen being exterminated, although both Yoda and Obi-Wan survive. Darth Vader slaughters all the children in the Jedi Temple. Afterwards, he goes to Padmé and tells her the Jedi have attempted to take over the Republic and leaves for Mustafar, where he slaughters the Separatist leaders. Senator Bail Organa rescues Obi-Wan and Yoda, and brings them to the Jedi Temple before heading to the Senate building. Sidious (as Palpatine) informs the Senate of a Jedi plot to overthrow the Republic. As a result, he announces that the Republic will be reorganized into the Galactic Empire. In the Jedi Temple, Obi-Wan and Yoda stand in shock over the bodies of the younglings and reconfigure a signal to warn all Jedi to keep away. Obi-Wan looks into the security recordings and, to his horror, sees a hologram of Vader carrying out the orders of Darth Sidious and kneeling to him. Though he initially refuses, Obi-Wan eventually agrees to find and kill Anakin' '. Obi-Wan then meets with Padmé, who refuses to believe his claims about Anakin's fall to the dark side. When she departs for Mustafar, Obi-Wan secretly stows away onboard.
When the couple is reunited, Padmé pleads with Vader to leave public life with her, but he refuses, believing that he can overthrow Sidious so that he and Padmé can rule the galaxy together. Vader sees Obi-Wan emerge from Padmé's ship, and suspects her of betraying him. Enraged, he uses the Force to choke Padmé into unconsciousness. Obi-Wan and Vader break into a vicious lightsaber duel. The duel brings them out of the facility to unprotected areas of the volcano planet. Obi-Wan eventually gains the advantage of higher ground, and when Vader attempts to attack again, Obi-Wan slices off both of his legs and his left arm in two swift cuts. Vader tumbles down the embankment and rolls to a stop at the edge of the lava. He catches on fire, sustaining near-fatal fourth-degree burns and severe lung damage. Obi-Wan leaves Mustafar with Padmé and Vader's lightsaber, leaving Vader to die. Darth Sidious arrives on Mustafar moments later and rescues Vader from the brink of death.
Padmé is given medical assistance, and although she is physically intact, she has lost her will to live. She delivers twins, a boy and a girl and names them Luke and Leia. With her final breaths, she insists to Obi-Wan that there is still good in Anakin (Vader); she then dies. On Coruscant, Vader's missing limbs and damaged body parts are replaced by cybernetic prostheses and implants. Vader is put into a full suit of black armor and is sealed in a respirator mask, which will allow him to survive his injuries. When Vader asks Sidious about Padmé's condition, he tells Vader that, in his anger, Vader himself killed Padmé. Vader unleashes a furious scream of mournful rage and destroys droids and equipment throughout the room with the Force while Sidious looks on with an evil grin. Aboard the Tantive IV, Obi-Wan, Yoda, and Bail Organa agree to keep the children hidden and separated. Obi-Wan and Yoda will watch and wait until the time is ready for the Skywalker children to do their part in the battle against the Sith. Leia is taken to Alderaan to live with the Queen and Bail Organa, and Luke is transferred to Tatooine to live with Owen and Beru. The film concludes with Owen and Beru holding Luke while staring out over the desert at Tatooine's twin suns.
Production
In 1973, Lucas claimed to have written the Star Wars saga's fundamental story in the form of a basic plot outline. He would later profess that at the time of the saga's conception, he had not fully realized the details — only major plot points throughout the series. He transformed his notes concerning Episode III into a screenplay in 2003 and 2004, in addition to allowing playwright Tom Stoppard to ghost-rewrite it and polish its dialogue. During production, a large number of fans speculated online about the film's subtitle; rumored titles included Rise of the Empire, The Creeping Fear (which was also named as the film's title on the official website on April Fool's 2004), and Birth of the Empire. Eventually, Revenge of the Sith also became a "guessed title" that George Lucas would later announce to be true.
After the earliest draft of the screenplay was submitted, the art department began designing the various ways that each element could appear on screen. For the Kashyyyk environment, the art department turned to The Star Wars Holiday Special for inspiration. Over a period of months, Lucas would approve hundreds of designs that would eventually appear in the film. He would later rewrite entire scenes and action sequences to correspond to certain designs he had chosen. The designs were then shipped to "pre-visualization" to create moving CGI versions known as "animatics". Ben Burtt would edit these scenes with Lucas in order to previsualize what the film would look like before the scenes were even filmed. The pre-visualization footage featured a basic raw CGI environment with equally unprocessed CGI characters performing a scene (typically an action sequence). Steven Spielberg was also allowed to assist both the art and pre-visualization department's designs for several action sequences in Revenge of the Sith. Later, the pre-visualization and art department designs were sent to the production department to begin "bringing the film out of the concept phase" by building the various sets, props and costumes. To determine the required sets, Lucas analyzed each scene with the staff to see which moments the actors would come in most contact with the set, warranting the set to be constructed.
During this time, actors Hayden Christensen and Ewan McGregor rehearsed extensively with stunt coordinator Nick Gillard to memorize and perform their climactic lightsaber duel together. In addition to performing the scenes as actors, they rehearsed each fight scene together for months on end. Like the previous two prequel films, all lightsaber battles featuring Obi-Wan and Anakin were performed by the actors themselves without the use of stunt doubles. As a result of months of practice, the speed at which Anakin and Obi-Wan engage in their duel is the speed at which it was filmed, and was not digitally accelerated. However, there are instances where single frames were removed to increase the velocity of particular strikes. An example of this occurs as Obi-Wan strikes down on Anakin after applying an armlock in the first half of the duel.
Although the first scene filmed was the final scene to appear in the film (shot during the filming of Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones in 2000), principal photography on the film occurred from June 30 to September 17, 2003. The film was shot entirely on sound stages at Fox Studios Australia in Sydney, although practical environments were shot as background footage later to be composited into the film. These included the limestone mountains depicting Kashyyyk, which were filmed in Phuket, Thailand (they were later damaged by the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami). The production company was also fortunate enough to be shooting at the same time that Mount Etna erupted in Italy. Camera crews were sent to the location to shoot several angles of the volcano that were later spliced into the background of the animatics and the final film version of the Mustafar planet.
Revenge of the Sith eventually became the first Star Wars film in which Anakin Skywalker and the suited Darth Vader were played by the same actor in the same film. As Christensen recounted, it was originally intended to simply have a "tall guy" in the Darth Vader costume. But after "begging and pleading" with Lucas, the Vader costume used in the film was created specifically to fit Christensen. The new costume featured shoe lifts and a muscle suit. It also required Christensen (who is 6 ft 1 in or 1.85 metres tall) to look through the mouthpiece of the helmet.
While shooting key scenes, Lucas would often use an "A camera" and "B camera," or the "V technique," a process that involves shooting with two or more cameras at the same time in order to gain several angles of the same performance. Using the HD technology developed for the film, the filmmakers were able to send footage to the editors the same day it was shot, a process that would require a full 24 hours had it been shot on film. Footage featuring the planet Mustafar was given to editor Roger Barton, who was on location in Sydney, Australia cutting the climactic duel. All other footage was forwarded to lead editor Ben Burtt at Skywalker Ranch in California.
The post-production department began work during filming and continued until weeks before the film was released in 2005. Special effects were created using almost all formats, including model work, CGI and practical effects. The same department later composited all such work into the filmed scenes—both processes taking nearly two years to complete. Sith holds the world record for most special effects used in a single film: 2,151 shots.
As the DVD featurette Within a Minute illustrates, the film required 910 artists and 70,441 man-hours to create 49 seconds of footage for the Mustafar duel alone. The film was produced with a budget of US$113 million, making it the least expensive of the three prequel films. Members of Hyperspace, the Official Star Wars Fan Club, received a special look into the production. Benefits included not only special articles, but they also received access to a webcam that transmitted a new image every 20 seconds during the time it was operating in Fox Studios Australia. Many times the stars, and Lucas himself, were spotted on the webcam.
Releases
Revenge of the Sith premiered at the Cannes Film Festival (out of competition) on May 15, 2005. Its theatrical release in most other countries took place on May 19 — the same day and month as the release of 1999's Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1977's Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope and 1983's Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi were also released on the same day and month, six years apart). The global outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas claimed one week before the premiere that it may have cost the US economy approximately US$627 million in lost productivity because of employees who took a day off or reported in sick. Grauman's Chinese Theatre, a traditional venue for the Star Wars films, did not show it. However, a line of people stood there for more than a month hoping to convince someone to change this. Most of them took advantage of an offer to see the film at a nearby cinema, ArcLight Cinemas (formerly the "Cinerama Dome").
A copy of the movie leaked into peer-to-peer file sharing networks just hours after opening in theaters. The movie was a time-stamped workprint, suggesting it may have come from within the industry rather than from someone who videotaped an advance screening. Eight people were later charged with copyright infringement and distributing material illegally. Documents filed by the Los Angeles District Attorney allege that a copy of the film was taken from an unnamed Californian post-production office by an employee, who later pleaded guilty to his charges. The illegal copy was passed among seven people until reaching an eighth party, who also pleaded guilty to uploading to an un-named P2P network.
Shortly after the above-mentioned print was leaked, it was released in Shanghai as a bootleg DVD with Chinese subtitles. The unknown producer of this DVD, for unexplained reasons, also elected to include English subtitles, which were in fact translated back into English from the Chinese translation, rather than using the original English script. This translation was particularly inept, leading to unintentional humor; the title of the movie, for example, was given as "Star War - The third gathers - Backstroke of the West". One error in translation that recurs several times in the film is that the phrase "it seems" was rendered as "good elephant". The mis-translation also caused the word "fuck" to appear three times in the subtitles, and rendered Darth Vader's cry of "Noooooooo" as "Do not want".
Rating
Revenge of the Sith is the first and only Star Wars film to receive a PG-13 (12A in the UK) rating from the MPAA, officially for "sci-fi violence and some disturbing images," namely for the scene in which Darth Vader is set aflame. Some critics, including Roger Ebert and Richard Roeper, later responded that the film could be handled by children as long as they had parental guidance, hence a "PG rating." At the same time, Lucas had stated months before the MPAA's decision that he felt the film should receive a PG-13 rating, because of Anakin's final moments and the content of the film being the darkest and most emotional of all six films. All previously released films in the series were rated PG. The PG-13 rating had not existed when the films in the original trilogy were released; however, the films in the original trilogy were later re-submitted to the MPAA due to changes in the re-released versions and once again received PG ratings. When Revenge of the Sith was released in Canada, it was given a PG rating in most provinces, excluding Quebec, where it was rated G. In Great Britain it received a "12A" rating (equivalent to the American "PG-13" rating).
DVD release
Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith was released on DVD on November 1, 2005 in the United States and Canada, on October 31, 2005 in the United Kingdom and on November 3, 2005 in Australia. It was also released in most major territories on or near the same day. The DVD was a two-disc set, with picture and sound mastered from the original digital source material. Unlike any other films directed by Lucas, Revenge of the Sith was released on DVD without any noticeable alterations from the film's original theatrical cut. The only alteration made was the change of a scene transition near the end, which involved the change from a wipe to a straight cut.
The DVD included a number of documentaries including a new full-length documentary as well as two featurettes, one which explores the prophecy of Anakin Skywalker as the Chosen One, the other looking at the movie's stunts and a 15 part collection of web-documentaries from the Official Website. Like the other DVD releases, included is an audio commentary track featuring Lucas, producer Rick McCallum, animation director Rob Coleman, and ILM visual effects supervisors John Knoll and Roger Guyett. Six deleted scenes were included with introductions from Lucas and McCallum. An Xbox game demo for Star Wars: Battlefront II along with a trailer for the Star Wars: Empire at War PC game was featured on the second disc.
This release is notable because, due to marketing issues, it was the first Star Wars film never to be released on VHS in the United States. However, the film was released on VHS in Australia, the United Kingdom and other countries in the world.
Reaction
Critical reaction towards the film was largely enthusiastic, especially in comparison to the two previous prequels. Film review site Rotten Tomatoes calculated a rating of 80 percent based on 247 reviews, compared to the 63 percent and 66 percent received by Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones respectively. Some critics noted that they view it to be the best of the prequels, while other reviewers judged it to be the best Star Wars film since Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back. A. O. Scott of The New York Times concluded that it was "the best of the four episodes Mr. Lucas has directed," and equal to The Empire Strikes Back as "the richest and most challenging movie in the cycle." In a 2007 summary of the 100 Best Science-Fiction Films on Rotten Tomatoes, Revenge of the Sith was placed 51 out of 100, making it the only prequel film in the Star Wars series to earn a ranking.
Much of the criticism for the film was directed towards the dialogue, particularly the film's romantic scenes. Critics and fans alike were quick to jump on such lines of Anakin or Padmé including "Hold me, Ani. Hold me, like you did by the lake on Naboo....where there was nothing but our love..." Critics have claimed this demonstrated Lucas' weakness as a writer of dialogue, a subject with which Lucas openly agreed when receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Film Institute.
Other criticisms included previously raised issues with the prequels: "wooden" acting, overuse of flashy and colorful computer-generated special effects, and attempts to be both childish and mature at the same time. It is often said the film contains a number of plot holes, although this claim is widely disputed and debated by fans. Though many critics and fans saw it as one of the best of the series, or at least, the strongest of the three prequels, others saw it as more or less on par with The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones. Some neoconservatives criticized the film, claiming it has a liberal bias and is a "weak" commentary on the U.S. Bush Administration and the U.S./Iraqi war. Some websites went so far as to propose a boycott of the film. Lucas defended the film, stating that the film's storyline was written during the Vietnam War, and was influenced by that conflict rather than the war in Iraq. Lucas did note, however, that "The parallels between Vietnam and what we're doing in Iraq now are unbelievable." A letter posted at film critic Roger Ebert's website claims that the film was the most conservative film of 2005.
Ewan McGregor and Ian McDiarmid's performances as Obi-Wan and Palpatine, respectively, were generally well-received by critics. Todd McCarthy of Variety commented, "Entertaining from start to finish and even enthralling at times, 'Sith' has some acting worth writing home about, specifically McDiarmid's dominant turn as the mastermind of the evil empire." A reviewer for The Village Voice wrote that "Ian McDiarmid's unctuous Emperor; turns appropriately vampiric as he attempts to draw Anakin into the Sith fold with promises of eternal life."
Box office performance
Revenge of the Sith was released in 115 countries. Worldwide gross for the film eventually reached nearly $850 million — ranking the film second worldwide in 2005, behind Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The film earned an estimated $16.5 million from 2,900 midnight screenings in North America upon its release. In total, it earned a record $50 million on its opening day. It was surpassed the following year by Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest which earned $55.5 million on its opening day.
With only the May 19 earnings, the film broke four box office records: midnight screenings gross (previously held by The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, $8 million), opening day gross (Spider-Man 2, with $40.4 million), single day gross (Shrek 2 with $44.8 million) and Thursday gross (The Matrix Reloaded with $37.5 million). Its single day gross record and opening day gross record were later surpassed by Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest on July 7, 2006, when that movie grossed $55.5 million on its opening day. It still retains its records for midnight screening gross and Thursday gross, however.
According to box office analysis sites, Revenge of the Sith set American records for highest gross in a given number of days for each of its first 12 days of release except for the seventh and eighth, where the record is narrowly held by Spider-Man 2. On its fifth day it became the highest grossing movie of 2005, surpassing Hitch ($177.6 million).
Revenge of the Sith earned $158.5 million in its first four-day period, surpassing the previous four-day record held by The Matrix Reloaded ($134.3 million), and joining Spider-Man, The Matrix Reloaded and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire as the only movies to make $100 million in three days.
Revenge of the Sith earned $200 million in its first eight days (record tied with Spider-Man 2). By its 17th day, it had passed $300 million (surpassing the record of 18 days of Shrek 2). The film earned $25,088,336 in its third weekend (June 3–5). It was eventually the third fastest film (after Shrek 2 and Spider-Man) to reach $350 million.
The film ended its run in American theaters on October 20, 2005. Its total of $380,270,577 ranks it 8th all-time in the United States, the highest-grossing movie of 2005 in the U.S., outgrossing second-place The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by nearly $90 million. It is currently the 16th highest-grossing film in history.
Awards and nominations
Despite being the best reviewed and most well-received film in the prequel trilogy, Revenge of the Sith received the smallest number of award nominations in comparison to the previous films (35 categories in total, compared to The Phantom Menace's 55 and Attack of the Clones' 38 category nominations).
In retrospect, the film did however receive the smallest number of Golden Raspberry Awards nominations, only one for Christensen as Worst Supporting Actor, which he "won" (both The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones received 7 nominations each, with 1 and 2 "wins", respectively). This nomination was controversial, as Christensen's character, Anakin Skywalker, is the main focus of the film, and not a supporting actor (the nominating ballots listed McGregor as the lead actor). It is the only Star Wars prequel to not receive a Razzie nomination for "Worst Picture". Christensen did, however, win the "Best Villain" award at the MTV Movie Awards.
Revenge of the Sith is the only Star Wars film not to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, however the film was nominated for Best Makeup to Dave Elsey and Nikki Gooley. The film also won "Best Picture" awards at the People's Choice Awards, Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films, Empire Awards and the Teen Choice Awards.
Cast
Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi. Obi-Wan is a General for the Galactic Republic and is a Jedi Master who sits on the Jedi Council. He often travels and performs missions with his best friend and former Padawan, Anakin Skywalker.
Natalie Portman as Senator Padmé Amidala. Padmé is Anakin's wife-in-secret; she has recently become pregnant. As Senator to Naboo she has taken a cautious look at the growing amount of power that is being given to the Supreme Chancellor.
Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker. Anakin has been recently promoted as the youngest ever Jedi Knight to join the council, but remains apprentice to Obi-Wan, having been denied the title of 'Master'. However, upon learning of his wife's pregnancy, he begins to have recurring visions of her dying in childbirth. Because similar visions accurately foretold the death of his mother, he swears to himself and his wife to do whatever possible to stop this.
Ian McDiarmid as Chancellor Palpatine. As the Chancellor of the Galactic Republic, Palpatine enacted the start of the Clone Wars against the Separatists. As a result, the Senate has voted him emergency powers and has recently been voting more and more to him. The Jedi Council oppose this, and begin to distrust him. The feeling is mutual for Palpatine, who only confides in Anakin Skywalker, in addition to being an unofficial mentor.
Frank Oz as the voice of Yoda. The wise old leader of the Jedi Council, Yoda is nearly 900 years old. He is a friend and mentor to many Jedi. He plays a major role in the Battle of Kashyyyk.
Samuel L. Jackson as Mace Windu. Windu is a Jedi Master who sits on the Jedi Council and is also a Jedi General in the Clone Wars.
Matthew Wood as the voice of General Grievous. Grievous is the evil General of the Separatists' droid army. The film's opening crawl reveals that he is the individual responsible for kidnapping Palpatine. He answers only to Count Dooku (who he knows as "Darth Tyranus") and his master, Darth Sidious.
Silas Carson as Nute Gunray. Gunray is the Viceroy of the Trade Federation, who is at odds with Grievous and dares to question his leadership.
Jimmy Smits as Senator Bail Organa. Organa is a Senator in the Galactic Republic and friend to the Jedi, who grows concerned at the growing power of the Chancellor.
Anthony Daniels as C-3PO. C-3PO is Padmé Amidala's personal droid.
Kenny Baker as R2-D2. R2-D2 is Anakin Skywalker's astro-droid and C-3PO's counterpart.
Temuera Morrison as Commander Cody and other clone troopers. Cody and the clone troopers are part of the army for the Republic. As seen in Attack of the Clones, they are the clones of the bounty hunter Jango Fett.
Christopher Lee as Count Dooku. Dooku is also known as Darth Tyranus. He is a Sith apprentice to Darth Sidious, Leader of the Separtists, and Grievous' superior, and together they kidnap Palpatine.
Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca. Chewbacca is a Wookiee who is friends with Yoda, and fights alongside him in the Battle of Kashyyyk.
James Earl Jones as the uncredited voice of the suited Darth Vader.
In 2004 it was reported that Gary Oldman was approached to provide the voice of General Grievous, and he accepted. However, complications arose during contract negotiations after Oldman learned the film was to be made outside of the Screen Actor's Guild, of which he is a member. He backed out of the role rather than violate the union's rules. John Rhys Davies was also considered the role. Matthew Wood, who ultimately voiced Grievous, disputed this story at Celebration III, held in Indianapolis. According to him, Oldman is a friend of Rick McCallum's, and recorded an audition as a favor to him. The audition was never chosen. Wood, who was also the supervising sound editor, was in charge of the auditions and submitted his audition anonymously in the midst of 30 others, under the initials "A.S." for Alan Smithee. Days later he received a phone call asking for the full name to the initials "A.S.". Wood insists to this day that his audition never would have been heard had he submitted it with his own name. Kenny Baker, original actor for R2-D2, Anakin's mechanic droid who travels with him on his missions, did not appear in this movie, even though he is mentioned in the credits as his character.
Cameo appearances
Lucas makes an appearance at the Coruscant Opera House as a blue faced being named Baron Papanoida who can be seen outside Palpatine's box. It marks Lucas' only appearance in any of the Star Wars films. His three children also appear in cameos: his son, Jett, as a young Jedi-in-training called Zett Jukassa who is killed defending the Jedi Temple against clone troopers; his daughter, Amanda, as a character called Terr Taneel, seen in the security hologram; and daughter Katie as a blue-skinned alien named Chi Eekway, visible when Palpatine arrives at the Senate after being saved by the Jedi, and talking to Baron Papanoida at the Opera House. When Anakin, Obi-Wan, and Palpatine arrive via shuttle to the Senate docks after crash landing on Coruscant, the Millennium Falcon can be seen landing on one of the lower platforms as the shuttle approaches. And while not a direct cameo, it was confirmed in the Revenge of the Sith online text commentary that a growl of Tarfull's in the scene of Yoda's departure from Kashyyyk is actually Itchy's growl from The Star Wars Holiday Special.
Much of the crew also make cameos in the film. Nick Gillard, the stunt coordinator, plays a Jedi named Cin Drallig (his name spelled backward, without the k). Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett in the original trilogy), appeared in a speaking role as Captain Colton, the pilot of the Rebel Blockade Runner Tantive IV. As the film wraps up towards the end, we get our first glimpse of Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia as babies, both played by Aidan Barton, the film editor's son.
Deleted roles
Scenes of a group of Senators (including Padmé) planning on organizing an Alliance to prevent the Chancellor from receiving any more executive powers were cut; they featured a young Mon Mothma. They were cut to achieve more focus on the story of Anakin. Lucas wrote early drafts of the script in which a 10-year-old Han Solo appeared, but the role was never cast or shot. The scene where Yoda arrives on Dagobah to begin his self-imposed exile was also cut, but is featured in a deleted scene in the DVD release, though McCallum has stated that he hopes Lucas may add it to the theatrical release when and if he releases a six episode DVD box set.
Many Order 66 scenes were cut. The deaths of Barriss Offee and Luminara Unduli were either cut from the film or never filmed in the first place. The death scene of Shaak Ti aboard the Invisible Hand (which can be viewed in the DVD deleted scenes section) is considered non-canon, as she was later confirmed to be alive.
Bai Ling filmed minor scenes for the film playing a senator, but her role was cut during editing. She claimed this was because she posed for the June 2005 issue of Playboy magazine, whose appearance on newsstands coincided with the movie's May release. Lucas denied this, stating that the cut had been made more than a year earlier, and that he had cut his own daughter's scenes as well.
Lucas had previously promised to explain the mystery behind the erasure of the planet Kamino from the Jedi Archives setup in Attack of the Clones. This may be viewed as a plot hole; however, Lucas instead chose to include it in the novel Labyrinth of Evil, which took place immediately before Revenge of the Sith. Lucas did this in order to focus more on Anakin's story in the film.
Cinematic and literary allusions
Throughout Revenge of the Sith Lucas refers to a wide range of films and other sources drawing on political, military and mythological motifs to enhance the impact of his story. Perhaps the most media coverage was given to a particular exchange between Anakin and Obi-Wan, which led to the aforementioned controversy: "If you're not with me, you're my enemy," Anakin declares, to which Obi-Wan responds, "Only a Sith deals in absolutes." In the novelization, Mace Windu says that the new laws decrease liberty in the name of security, but he doesn't feel safer. Despite Lucas' insistence to the contrary, The Seattle Times concluded, "Without naming Bush or the Patriot Act, it's all unmistakable no matter what your own politics may be."
Palpatine's appearance and actions are reminiscent of Doctor Mabuse, particularly as portrayed by German actor Rudolf Klein-Rogge in Fritz Lang's films. Anakin also bears a resemblance to the mad scientist Rotwang from the classic film Metropolis. Both Anakin and Rotwang wear a menacing leather glove on one hand and are obsessed with saving — or resurrecting — a lost loved one. Also, Rotwang builds the android whose appearance heavily influenced the image of Lucas' C-3PO, who was built by Anakin prior to The Phantom Menace.
Palpatine has been compared to Iago, the villain of Shakespeare's Othello by many, including McDiarmid himself. In Othello, Iago manipulates the title character into believing that his wife Desdemona has committed adultery with his confidante and lieutenant. In Revenge of the Sith, Vader comes to believe that Padmé has betrayed him to his former master, Obi-Wan. In both cases, blind rage drives the husband to strangle his wife.
Darth Vader and his legion of Clone troopers march on the Jedi Temple in a direct reference to the well-known "Odessa Steps" sequence from The Battleship Potemkin.
Following the march on the Jedi Temple sequence (itself a direct tribute to Sergei Eisenstein's "Odessa Steps" montage in The Battleship Potemkin; save that the white-armored troopers are marching up the steps), Lucas' editing schemes during Order 66, the slaughter of the Separatists and the declaration of the Galactic Empire are reminiscent of the montage of massacres during the christening scene of The Godfather, a film directed by mentor Francis Ford Coppola.
Certain plot points, including that of Palpatine building his own "monster", and especially the final scenes are comparable to the story of Frankenstein. Notably, Vader is assembled by various parts, and then raised on the platform he was assembled on. He struggles and breaks free from the platform, stumbling forward.
McDiarmid, Lucas, and others have also called Anakin's journey to the dark side Faustian in the sense of making a "pact with the devil" for short-term gain. Midway in the film, Lucas intercuts between Anakin and Padmé by themselves, thinking about one another in the Jedi Temple and their apartment, respectively during sunset, in a sequence without dialog and complemented by a moody, synthesized soundtrack. Lucas' coverage of the exterior cityscapes, skylines and interior isolation in the so-called "Ruminations" sequence is similar to the cinematography and mise-en-scene of Rosemary's Baby, a film in which a husband makes a literal pact with the devil.
References to the original trilogy
The prequel trilogy films often make references to the original trilogy in order to help connect the films together. Lucas has often referred to the films as a long poem that rhymes. Such examples include the now famous line of "I have a bad feeling about this" that is used in each film, as well as battles (namely lightsaber duels) almost always taking place over a pit of some kind.
Of the prequel trilogy films, Revenge of the Sith makes the most references to the original trilogy. For example, when Obi-Wan Kenobi kills General Grievous with a blaster, he mutters to himself "So uncivilized." This is a reference to the beginning of A New Hope, when Obi-Wan describes a lightsaber as being "Not as clumsy or as random as a blaster, but an elegant weapon for a more civilized age." In addition, during the opening battle of Revenge of the Sith, Anakin mutters to himself that "this is where the fun begins." The same line was spoken by Han Solo under similar circumstances in A New Hope. In Obi-Wan's final confrontation with General Grievous he jumps down from an overhead catwalk and says "Hello there." which is a direct quote of Obi-Wan's first line in A New Hope and a slight nod to Sir Alec Guiness, who portrayed Obi-Wan in the original trilogy.
The film's title itself is a reference to Revenge of the Jedi, the original title of Return of the Jedi; Lucas changed the title scant weeks before the premiere of ROTJ, declaring that Jedi do not seek revenge.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack to the film was released by Sony Classical on May 3, 2005, more than two weeks before the release of the film. The music was composed and conducted by John Williams, and performed by the London Symphony Orchestra and London Voices. John Williams was also composer and conductor of the score for the other five films in the Star Wars saga. A music video titled A Hero Falls was created for the film's theme, Battle of the Heroes, featuring footage from the film and was also available on the DVD.
The soundtrack also came with a collectors' DVD, Star Wars: A Musical Journey, at no additional cost. The DVD, hosted by McDiarmid, features 16 music videos set to remastered selections of music from all six film scores, set chronologically through the saga. This album was chosen as one of Amazon.com's Top 100 Editor's Picks of 2005 (#83).
Novelization
The novelization of the film was written by Matthew Stover. It includes much more dialogue than the film, including a conversation between Count Dooku and Darth Sidious, where the reader learns Palpatine lied to Dooku about what the Empire would truly be. The novel includes many little details. For example, during the Battle of Coruscant, Anakin's callsign is Red 5, a reference to Luke's callsign in the climactic battle of A New Hope, and one of the Republic capital ships is commanded by Lieutenant Commander Lorth Needa, who becomes Captain Needa in The Empire Strikes Back. There are also references to the Star Wars: Republic comic book series, such as the Battle of Jabiim (Volume 3). In addition to this, the siege of the Jedi Temple is slightly more violent than the cinematic version.Some unseen or unheard-of elements to the Revenge of the Sith story were fleshed out in the course of the novel. Such examples include more discussions between Anakin and Palpatine, confirming Palpatine's former master as Darth Plagueis. Not only is Saesee Tiin revealed to be a telepath, but his horn, lost in the Clone Wars, is revealed to have grown back. These are a few examples of many descriptions of characters' feelings and inner narrative.
17. Independence Day (1996)
(Collections: $811,200,000)
Independence Day (also known as its promotional abbreviation ID4) is an Academy Award winning science fiction film directed by Roland Emmerich. The film's plot is about an attempted alien invasion of Earth.
The film's success was partially credited to an extensive marketing campaign which began in the United States with a dramatic commercial during the Super Bowl XXX. It is the first movie to advertise during Super Bowls. Fox spent $1.3 million to promote the film during the Super Bowl.
The movie was scheduled for release on July 3, 1996, but due to the high level of anticipation for the film, many theaters began showing it on the evening of July 2, 1996, the same day the action in the film begins. The movie's total worldwide gross was $816,969,268 - the 18th highest worldwide gross for a movie all-time, and rated the 49th best sci-fi movie of all time.
Story and Plot Point
When Earth comes under attack from an advanced extraterrestrial species, the survivors must band together to repel the invaders.
On July 2, an alien mothership enters orbit around Earth, deploying several dozen smaller spacecraft to hover over many of the world's major cities. Satellite transmissions from the craft are discovered, by scientist David Levinson (Goldblum), to be a timer which he believes is a countdown to a coordinated attack by the aliens. Having made his way to the White House with his father, he warns President Thomas J. Whitmore (Pullman) of the impending attack. After three US Air Force helicopters are shot down by an alien spacecraft while attempting to establish communications, the president orders the evacuation of affected cities. Before the countdown reaches zero, he flees the White House aboard Air Force One with his staff and Levinson. At zero point, the hovering alien spacecraft open fire upon their targets with advanced directed-energy weapons, incinerating entire cities and killing millions.
The United States counterattack is coordinated from El Toro and sees the alien spacecraft assaulted by Marine Corps fighter aircraft. The attacks are useless, as both the larger craft and individual fighters launched from within are protected by seemingly-impenetrable force fields. After leading his unit of fighter pilots in an attack against the aliens, Captain Steven Hiller (Smith) is involved in a dogfight with an alien fighter which sees both crash in the desert. Having parachuted to safety, Hiller subdues and captures the injured alien. As the El Toro airbase has since been destroyed, Hiller takes the alien in the direction of the nearby Area 51 base, where the president and his remaining staff have also landed. There, they discover a top secret facility housing a captured alien fighter and three alien bodies recovered from Roswell in 1947.
When lead scientist Dr. Brackish Okun (Spiner) examines the new alien specimen, it attempts escape and takes control of his mind. When questioned by President Whitmore, through a telepathic connection it reveals that its species travels from planet to planet, destroying all life and harvesting the planet's natural resources, before moving on to the next conquest. The alien attempts a psychic attack against Whitmore and is killed by military personnel. Whitmore orders a nuclear attack on one of the larger alien spacecraft which is hovering over a by-now-evacuated Houston, but as the craft is still protected by its force shield, the attack fails.
Levinson devises a plan to gain access to the interior of the alien mothership in space in order to introduce a computer virus and plant a nuclear device on board. This, it is hoped, will cause the shields of the Earth-based alien craft to fail long enough for the human resistance to destroy them. Hiller volunteers to fly the captured alien fighter and Levinson accompanies him to upload the virus. With satellite communications knocked out, the Americans use morse code to coordinate an attack with the remaining air forces around the world, timed to occur when the invaders' shields are set to fail.
With the successful implantation of the virus, President Whitmore leads the US fighter jets against an alien spacecraft on approach to Area 51. The attack is initially unsuccessful and the fighters soon exhaust their supply of missiles. The underside of the alien craft opens up as its primary weapon of mass destruction is prepared to fire on the base. Russell Casse (Quaid) finds that he possesses the one remaining missile. The firing mechanism damaged, he pilots his jet into the opening in a kamikaze attack. The ensuing explosion causes a chain reaction which destroys the alien spacecraft. Human resistance forces around the world use the same weak point to destroy the remainder of the alien ships, while the nuclear device planted by Hiller and Levinson destroys the alien mothership. Hiller and Levinson escape unharmed, crash-landing their captured alien fighter in the desert close to Area 51.
Cast and characters
Will Smith as Captain Steven Hiller; US Marine Corps F/A-18C pilot at the forefront of the human resistance counter-offensive, Hiller's ambition before the alien attack is to join NASA's astronaut training programme.
Bill Pullman as President Thomas J. Whitmore; former Persian Gulf War fighter pilot and current President of the United States.
Jeff Goldblum as David Levinson; an MIT-educated scientist working as a senior manager for a cable television company who discovers the aliens' invasion plot and formulates a plan to defeat them.
Judd Hirsch as Julius Levinson; Jewish immigrant and widowed father of David Levinson.
Mary McDonnell as First Lady Marilyn Whitmore; the wife of President Whitmore who is wounded while fleeing the destruction of Los Angeles, later dying of her injuries.
Margaret Colin as Constance Spano; the White House Communications Director and David Levinson's ex-wife, she divorced David because of his lack of ambition. Reunited during the attack, they reconcile their differences and remarry.
Vivica A. Fox as Jasmine Dubrow; an exotic dancer and girlfriend of Steven Hiller, the two marry shortly before he leaves on his mission to disable the alien mothership.
Randy Quaid as Russel Casse; an alcoholic crop duster and veteran pilot of the Vietnam War who claims to have been a former alien abductee, Casse is ridiculed by his neighbours and held in contempt by his son until the alien attack, when he sacrifices his life to destroy the alien spacecraft hovering over Area 51.
Brent Spiner as Dr. Brackish Okun; the chief scientist at Area 51 in charge of investigating the aliens, later killed by an alien captured by Steven Hiller.
Harry Connick, Jr. as Captain Jimmy Wilder; a US Marine Corps pilot and best friend of Steven Hiller, killed while fleeing a failed attack on an alien spacecraft.
Robert Loggia as General William Grey; the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
James Rebhorn as Albert Nimziki; the Secretary of Defense and a former CIA officer, later fired by President Whitmore.
Production
The idea for the film came when Emmerich and Devlin were at a bar mitzvah for Emmerich's sister-in-law's child. A rabbi asked if Emmerich believed in aliens. He said he didn't, then the rabbi said "What if you wake up one day and see a massive spaceship the size of a city overhead?" Emmerich turned to Devlin and said "I think I have an idea for our next film".
The name in its promotion ID4 was chosen due to legal troubles over using the title Independence Day.
The US Army allowed the production crew to film in Nevada and they helped them with anything they required. The crew then told the army that they wanted to film inside Area 51. The army rejected this and cancelled them filming near the base.
Filming locations
The film was shot in United States, Kenya, Egypt, Iceland, Sweden and Australia.
United States
Los Angeles, California
Fontana, California
Blue Ridge, Georgia
New York City, New York
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Dallas, Texas
Grants Pass, Oregon
Utah
Michigan City, Indiana
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
New Mexico
Washington D.C.
West New York, New Jersey
White Sands, New Mexico
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
Reykjavík, Iceland
Stockholm, Stockholms län, Sweden
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Soundtrack
The score of the movie was composed by David Arnold, performed, conducted and arranged by Nicholas Dodd. Arnold won BMI Film & TV Award, and Grammy Award. The CD was released by BMG Classics, one (or two) day before the movie was released.
Novels
Author Stephen Molstad wrote a tie-in novel to help promote the film shortly before its release in the summer of 1996. The novel goes into further detail on the characters, situations, and overall concept that the film lacked.
Following the success of the film, a prequel novel entitled Independence Day: Silent Zone was written by Emmerich, Devlin, and Molstad in February 1998. The novel is set in the late 1960s and early 1970s, and details the early career of Dr. Brackish Okun. The novel goes into much detail on the aliens' technology and goes into even further detail of the crash at Roswell, New Mexico. Okun discovers that a second craft crashed in a part of Mexico nicknamed the "Silent Zone." Future Secretary of Defense Albert Nimziki has a small role in the novel as the director of the CIA.
Molstad wrote a third novel, Independence Day: War in the Desert in July 1999. The novel is both a midquel and sequel to the film. Set in Saudi Arabia on July 3, Captain Reg Cummins of the RAF and many of his fellow pilots lead a successful attack on one of the many "city destroyers." The novel mainly deals with Cummins and his pilots fighting a ground war with aliens that survived the destruction of their ship, which the characters infiltrated earlier in the novel to dispose of any survivors. The novel also goes into detail of the aliens' psychic abilities, their use of ground vehicles, their hand-held weapons, and also contains a subplot of a blooming relationship between Cummins and a Saudi noble's daughter. Cummins and Colonel Thompson are the only characters from the film to be featured in this novel (they being the two British pilots briefly seen receiving the Morse code message); however, President Whitmore is mentioned.
Right after the success of Independence Day, it was considered that these novels should be made into movies, but the idea was scrapped.
Reception
Ratings
Australia:
PG
Canada:
PG
Chile:
TE
Finland:
K-12
France:
U
Germany:
12
Iceland:
12
India:
U/A
Ireland:
PG
Italy:
T
Netherlands:
AL
Norway:
11
Peru:
14
Portugal:
M/12
Singapore:
PG
South Korea:
All
Spain:
7
Sweden:
11
United Kingdom:
12
United States:
PG-13
Box office performance
Domestic Total Gross: $306,169,268
Foreign: $510,800,000
Worldwide: $816,969,268
Independence Day took £6.8 million at the box office during its opening weekend in the UK.
One factor of The box office success of Independence Day is due to the heavy marketing campaign behind it.
Reviews
Independence Day is ranked as fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with a 63% positive rating, with 19 out of 30 critics giving it positive reviews. It has a 59% on Metacritic.
Many viewers felt that the main plot was simply a cursory re-telling of the H. G. Wells novella The War of the Worlds, after lacing it with contemporary social and environmental issues, and packaging it with "eye-popping" special effects. The primary plot twist between the two is that a man-made computer virus is substituted for a naturally-occurring disease as the driving factor in defeating the marauding aliens, promoting the concept that man has more direct control over the outcome of the desperate situation than in Wells' original story. However, the remainder of the plots are nearly identical: earthly military technology is largely ineffective in resisting the invading aliens; the aliens' primary purpose in invading Earth is to harvest resources from the planet (either humans as food in H. G. Wells' original story, or natural resources in this adaptation); and once the aliens are defeated, humanity becomes united through their struggle against a common foe. Even a minor plot point where a primary character is unexpectedly re-united with his wife (estranged in this adaptation, separated by the chaos created by the invading aliens in H. G. Wells' original) is captured by both stories.
The patriotic overtones of the film were widely criticized by foreign reviewers. Movie Review UK described the film as "A mish-mash of elements from a wide variety of alien invasion movies and gung-ho American jingoism".
Bill Pullman's pre-battle speech, in which he states that victory in the coming war would see the entire world henceforth describe July 4 as its "independence day", was described as the "the most jaw-droppingly pompous soliloquy ever delivered in a mainstream Hollywood movie" in a BBCi review.
The movie was nominated for the Academy Award for Sound, and a Saturn Award for Best Director, Best Science Fiction Film, Best Special Effects, Best Actor for Jeff Goldblum, Best Actor for Will Smith, Best Costumes, Best Music, Best Performance by a Younger Actor for James Duval, Best Supporting Actor for Brent Spiner, Best Supporting Actress for Vivica A. Fox, and Best Writer. It also was nominated for a C.A.S. Award for "Outstanding Achievement in Sound Mixing for a Feature Film",and a MTV Movie Award for Best Action Sequence, Best Breakthrough Performance for Vivica A. Fox, Best Male Performance for Will Smith, and Best Movie. For its short comings, it was nominated for a Razzie Award for "Worst Written Film Grossing Over $100 Million".
Awards
Academy Award for Visual Effects
Saturn Award for Best Director, Best Science Fiction Film, Best Special Effects
Amanda award for Best Foreign Feature Film
Blockbuster Entertainment Award for Favorite Actor - Science Fiction, Will Smith
Czech Lions award for box office
Golden Screen award for Golden Screen, Golden Screen with 1 Star, and Golden Screen with 2 Stars
International Monitor Award for Electronic Visual Effects
Kids' Choice Awards Blimp Award for favorite movie
MTV Movie Award for Best Kiss
Mainichi Film Concours award for Best Foreign Language Film
People's Choice Award for Favorite Dramatic Motion Picture
Golden Satellite Award for Best Film Editing and Best Visual Effects
Universe Reader's Choice Award for Best Actor in a Genre Motion Picture, Best Cinematography for a Genre Motion Picture, Best Director for a Genre Motion Picture, Best Science Fiction Film, Best Score for a Genre Motion Picture, Best Special Effects in a Genre Motion Picture, Best Supporting Actress in a Genre Motion Picture and Best Writing for a Genre Motion Picture
Legacy
The Katina level of the video game Star Fox 64 is a homage to the climactic battle scene of the movie, featuring squadrons of friendly aircraft dog-fighting swarms of alien ships beneath a giant saucer-shaped mothership. The mothership also destroys the base by shooting a laser beam into it, like the movie, and is destroyed by blowing up the laser emitter.
In the computer game Supreme Commander, one of the super units, the Aeon CZAR, bears resemblance to the alien destroyer depicted in Independence Day and has a similar city destroying energy beam similar to the movie.
The movie, Returner was influenced by Independence Day.
In the game Metal Slug 2, the ending is a parody of Independence Day, including the scene when Russel Casse crashes his plane against the alien spacecraft.
Radio spin-off
on August 4, 1996, BBC Radio 1 broadcast the one-hour play Independence Day UK, written, produced, and directed by Dirk Maggs, a spin-off depicting the alien invasion from a British perspective. None of the original cast were present. Dean Devlin gave Maggs permission to produce an original version, on condition that he did not reveal certain details of the movie's plot and that the British were not depicted as saving the day. Devlin was credited as "Creative Consultant". It won the 1996 Talkie for Best Production.
Independence Day UK was set up to be similar to the 1938 radio broadcast of The War Of The Worlds; the first 20 minutes were set as being live. It did not stir panic as War of the Worlds, but there were a few phone calls to the BBC Duty Office.
The British setting was more an excuse to make fun of Hollywood action heroes. They had one character say at the end "I bet the Americans claim the credit for this!" Maggs achieved authentic aircraft and cockpit interior sounds by recording at the an Royal Air Force RAF base.
Video Game
An Independence Day video game was released in 1997 for the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, PC, and Mobile.
DVD versions
The theatrical version of the film was 2 hours, 25 minutes. A Special Edition, released on DVD, contains an additional nine minutes of footage. Much of the reincorporated material involves the Casse family. For example, it reveals that Troy is chronically ill (in the theatrical cut, he just throws up along the way) and receives treatment in the Area 51 infirmary upon arrival. The extended version of the movie has also been aired on television.
Sequel
Devlin told Sci-fi Wire that he and Emmerich were planning a sequel to Independence Day. "Roland and I, we're back to work on doing a sequel to Independence Day," Devlin said in an interview. "I think we finally found a story that we wanted to tell." Devlin hoped to get as many of the original cast as possible. He refused to comment on the sequel's plot. A majority of the cast stated that they would like to star in the sequel. Devlin wanted Will to return because he was great to work with: "He was the guy who was willing to stand out in the sun, in baking heat, and be his own stand-in while the cameras were being set up. He was such a trooper during the making of the picture."
At the 28th annual Saturn Awards, Devlin revealed that the plot's story was influenced by the September 11th attacks. After the attacks, Davlin felt that "there was something in the culture that reminded us of the message of the movie and how people came together. We were deeply effected about that. We were asked a lot of questions in the press in relation to seeing those images. So it spurred a lot of discussion, and out of those discussions came a way of doing the film. And we move from that." He later told Scifiwire, that it "started because people were asking us about images that were fantasy images that then looked so frightening real in the [wake of] horrible events that took place."
Devlin also felt that 9/11 was parallel to Independence Day; "how the world came together in the aftermath". Oddly, when George W. Bush was talking about disclosed details of the failed Al Qaeda plot to fly a plane into the tallest building in Los Angeles, Fox aired numerous images from Independence Day, showing the reported target of the attack, the Library Tower, now known as the U.S. Bank Tower.
A year later, Devlin told Sci-fi Wire that he and Emmerich were working on the script. If the script did not turn up as good as they desired, they'll "bury it". He still declined to discuss the plot, but added that the quality of the screenplay was a key factor in getting the original cast.
18. Spider-Man (2002)
(Collections: $806,700,000)
Spider-Man is a 2002 American superhero film based on the fictional Marvel Comics character Spider-Man. The film is the first in the Spider-Man film series. The film was written by David Koepp, and directed by Sam Raimi. It stars Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst and Willem Dafoe.
The film begins with Peter Parker, a high school student, being bitten by a genetically altered spider. After misusing his newly given abilities, which indirectly caused the death of his Uncle Ben, he becomes the heroic Spider-Man. Peter hopes to win the heart of Mary Jane Watson, the girl he has loved since he was a boy, and battles the villainous Green Goblin, who is the father of Peter's best friend, Harry Osborn.
After being stuck in development hell for nearly 25 years, the film was released on May 3, 2002 to good reviews from critics, went on to break box office records, and became the highest grossing film of 2002. The success of the film led to two sequels, Spider-Man 2 and Spider-Man 3. This led the films to being a trilogy in the Spider-Man film series.
Story and Plot Point
Peter Parker, his best friend Harry Osborn, and secret crush Mary Jane Watson visit a genetics laboratory with their high school class. While taking photos in the laboratory, Peter is bitten on the hand by a genetically engineered "super spider", and arrives home and passes out with the bite wound considerably swollen. Meanwhile, Norman Osborn, Harry's father, attempts to preserve his company's military contract from a rival firm, personally experimenting with his company's new but unstable performance-enhancing chemical vapor to increase his speed, strength, and stamina. Afterward, he goes into an uncontrollable rage and kills his assistant. The next morning, Peter finds that his previously impaired vision has improved to 20/20 and that his body has metamorphosized into a more muscular physique. When Peter goes to school, he finds himself producing webbing and having the quick reflexes to avoid being injured in a fight with Flash Thompson. Peter escapes from the school and realizes that he has acquired spider-like abilities from the spider bite. Peter quickly learns to scale walls, long jump across building rooftops and swing via webs from his wrists.
Lying to his aunt and uncle about where he is going, Peter decides to enter a wrestling tournament to get money to buy a car and impress Mary Jane. During an argument, Uncle Ben advises Peter, "With great power comes great responsibility." Peter lashes out at his uncle and leaves for the tournament. Peter wins, but is cheated out of the contest money. In retaliation he allows a thief to escape with the promoter's gate money. Afterward, Peter finds his uncle has been carjacked and killed. Peter tracks down the carjacker only to find out it was the same thief he allowed to escape earlier. During the struggle, the carjacker falls out of a window and dies. Upon graduating, Peter decides to use his abilities to fight injustice, and dons a new costume and the persona of Spider-Man. Peter is hired as a freelance photographer when he arrives in newspaper editor J. Jonah Jameson's office with the only clear images of Spider-Man.
Norman, upon finding out that Oscorp's board members plan to sell the company, attacks them at the World Unity Fair. Although he successfully murders them, Peter engages him as Spider-Man and drives him off as he threatens Mary Jane. Jameson quickly dubs Norman as the Green Goblin. The Goblin offers Spider-Man a place at his side as he sees how the authorities mistrust him, but Spider-Man refuses, knowing that it is the right thing to do. The Goblin commits arson to engage him with a final offer, which Spider-Man refuses, and the Goblin becomes set on killing him. At the Osborn and Parkers' Thanksgiving dinner, Norman notices Peter's wound from the masked confrontation and leaves shortly thereafter. Feeling betrayed by Peter, and having found a personal annoyance with Aunt May, he attacks her. While she recovers in the hospital, Mary Jane admits she has a crush on Spider-Man, who rescued her on numerous occasions, and asks Peter whether he ever asked about her. Peter reflects on his own feelings, during which Harry enters. Feeling betrayed by his girlfriend, Harry tells his father whom Peter loves the most, unintentionally revealing what is Spider-Man's biggest weakness.
The Goblin strikes, holding Mary Jane and a tram car full of children hostage on top the Queensboro Bridge where Spider-Man arrives. The Goblin tells Spider-Man to choose who he wants to save, and when Spider-Man refuses to choose, the Goblin drops his hostages. Spider-Man manages to save both Mary Jane and the tram car, whilst the Goblin is pelted at by civilians, showing loyalty to Spider-Man and proving him wrong by telling the Goblin that if "you mess with one of us, you mess with all of us." The Goblin then grabs Spider-Man and throws him into an abandoned building where he begins to beat him. The tables turn as the Goblin boasts of how he will later kill Mary Jane, and an enraged Spider-Man dominates over him, forcing the Goblin into being unmasked. Norman begs for forgiveness, but his Goblin persona attempts to remote-control his glider to impale Spider-Man. The superhero evades the attack, causing the glider to impale Norman instead, and he dies asking Peter not to reveal his secret to Harry. At Norman’s funeral, Harry swears vengeance toward Spider-Man, who he believes is responsible for killing his father, and asserts that Peter is all he has left. Mary Jane confesses to Peter that she’s in love with him, but Peter, feeling that he must protect her, hides his true feelings. As Peter leaves the funeral, he recalls Uncle Ben's words, "With great power comes great responsibility." The film ends with Spider-Man web-swinging through the city he vows to defend.
Cast and characters
"I felt like I was an outsider. I think what happened to me made me develop this street sense of watching people and working out what made them tick, wondering whether I could trust them or not. I went to a lot of schools along the coast in California, made few friends and stayed with aunts, uncles and grandparents while my folks tried to make ends meet. It was tough. We had no money."
— Tobey Maguire on identifying with Peter Parker
Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker / Spider-Man: An academic but socially inept student who is bitten by a genetically modified spider and gains spider-like abilities. Maguire was cast as Peter in July 2000, having been Sam Raimi's primary choice for the role after he saw The Cider House Rules. The studio was initially hesitant to cast someone who did not seem to fit the ranks of "adrenaline-pumping, tail-kicking titans", but Maguire managed to impress studio executives with his audition. The actor was signed for a deal in the range of $3 to $4 million with higher salary options for two sequels. To prepare, Maguire was trained by a physical trainer, a yoga instructor, a martial arts expert and a climbing expert, taking several months to improve his physique. Maguire studied spiders and worked with a wire man to simulate the arachnidlike motion, and had a special diet.
The studio had expressed interest in actors Leonardo DiCaprio, Freddie Prinze, Jr, Chris Klein, Wes Bentley and Heath Ledger. DiCaprio had been considered by James Cameron for the role in 1995, while Raimi joked of Prinze that "[he] won't even be allowed to buy a ticket to see this film." In addition, actors Scott Speedman, Jay Rodan, and James Franco were involved in screen tests for the lead role.
Willem Dafoe as Norman Osborn / Green Goblin: CEO of Oscorp who tests an unstable strength enhancer on himself and becomes the insane and powerful Green Goblin. Unaware of Spider-Man's true identity, he also sees himself as a father figure for Peter, ignoring his own son, Harry. Dafoe was cast as Osborn in November 2000. Nicolas Cage turned down the role of due to his commitment on Adaptation, while John Malkovich also rejected the role because of scheduling difficulties and a disinterest in the genre. Dafoe insisted on wearing the uncomfortable costume as he felt that a stuntman would not convey the character's necessary body language. The 580-piece suit took half an hour to put on.
Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson: The girl whom Peter Parker has developed a crush since he was six years old. Mary Jane has abusive parents and aspires to become an actress, but becomes a waitress at a run down diner, a fact she hides from her boyfriend Harry. Before Raimi cast Dunst, he had expressed his interest in casting Alicia Witt. Dunst decided to audition after learning Maguire had been cast, feeling the film would have a more independent feel. Dunst earned the role a month before shooting in an audition in Berlin.
James Franco as Harry Osborn: Before being cast as Peter's best friend and flatmate, Franco had screen tested for Spider-Man himself.
Cliff Robertson as Ben Parker: The husband to May Parker and uncle of Peter Parker, a fired electrician who is trying to find a new job. He is killed by a carjacker whom Peter failed to stop, and leaves Peter with the message, "With great power comes great responsibility."
Rosemary Harris as May Parker: The wife to Ben Parker and the aunt of Peter Parker. May is a devout Christian who is highly aware of Peter's love for Mary Jane.
J. K. Simmons as J. Jonah Jameson The grouchy chief editor of the Daily Bugle who considers Spider-Man a criminal. Nonetheless he has a good side and pays Peter for photos of Spider-Man, and refuses to tell the Green Goblin the identity of the photographer.
Joe Manganiello as Flash Thompson: A repugnant high school student who bullies Peter, and is defeated in a fight after Peter inherits his spider-like powers.
Michael Papajohn as The Carjacker: The criminal who robs the wrestling manager who stiffs Peter Parker for his ring performance and murders Ben Parker.
Bruce Campbell, a long-time colleague of director Sam Raimi, cameoed as the announcer at the wrestling ring Peter takes part in. Raimi himself appeared off-screen, throwing popcorn at Peter as he enters the arena to wrestle Bonesaw McGraw who was played by former professional wrestler "Macho Man" Randy Savage. Spider-Man co-creator Stan Lee also had a cameo, in which he asks Peter, "Hey kid, would like a pair of these glasses? They're the kind they wore in X-Men." The scene was cut, and Lee only briefly appears in the film to grab a young girl from falling debris during the battle between Spider-Man and the Green Goblin in Times Square.
Production
Development
For more details on this topic, see Spider-Man film series#Development.
Although Sony Pictures acquired the "Cameron material" from MGM/UA, in April 1999 the studio announced they were not hiring James Cameron himself to direct the film. The studio lined up Roland Emmerich, Tim Burton, Chris Columbus and David Fincher as potential directors. Fincher did not want to depict the origin story, pitching the film as being based on The Night Gwen Stacy Died storyline. The studio disagreed. Sam Raimi was attached to direct in January 2000, for a summer 2001 release. He had been a big fan of the comic book during his youth, and his passion for Spider-Man earned him the job.
Cameron's "scriptment" became the basis of David Koepp's first-draft screenplay, often word for word. Cameron's versions of the Marvel villains Electro and Sandman remained the antagonists. Koepp's rewrite substituted the Green Goblin as the primary antagnoist and added Doctor Octopus as a secondary villain. Raimi felt the Green Goblin and the surrogate father-son theme between Norman Osborn and Peter Parker would be more interesting. In June, Columbia hired Scott Rosenberg to rewrite of Koepp's material. Remaining a constant in all the rewrites was the "organic webshooter" idea from the Cameron "scriptment". Raimi felt he would stretch the audience's suspension of disbelief too far to have Peter invent mechanical webshooters.
Rosenberg removed the Ock character and created several new action sequences. Raimi felt adding a third origin story would be make the film too complex. Sequences removed from the final film had Spider-Man protecting Fargas, the wheelchair-bound Oscorp executive from the Goblin, and Spider-Man defusing a hostage situation on a train. As production neared, producer Laura Ziskin hired her husband, award-winning writer Alvin Sargent, to polish the dialogue, primarily between Peter and Mary Jane. Columbia offered David Koepp's name to the WGA as sole screenwriter, despite the fact that it had acquired Cameron's script and hired two subsequent writers. Without reading and comparing any of the material, the Writers Guild approved sole credit to Koepp.
Filming
With Spider-Man cast, filming was set to begin the following November in New York City and on Sony soundstages. The film was set for release a year later, but when the film was postponed to be released on May 3, 2002, the shoot began on January 8, 2001 in Culver City. Sony's Stage 29 was used for Peter's Forest Hills home, and Stage 27 was used for the wrestling sequence where Peter takes on Bonesaw McGraw (Randy Savage). Stage 27 was also used for the complex Times Square sequence where Spider-Man and the Goblin battle for the first time, where a three-story set with a breakaway balcony piece was built. The scene also required shooting in Downey, California. On March 6, 45-year-old construction worker Tim Holcombe was killed when a forklift modified as a construction crane crashed into a construction basket that he was in. The following court case led to the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health to fine Sony $58,805.
In Los Angeles, locations included the Natural History Museum (for the Columbia University lab where Peter is bitten and receives his powers), the Pacific Electricity Building (the Daily Bugle offices) and the Greystone Mansion for the interiors of Norman Osborn's home. In April, some of the Spider-Man costumes were stolen, and Sony put up a $25,000 reward, although they were never returned. Production moved to New York City for two weeks, taking in locations such as the Queensboro Bridge, the exterior of Columbia University's Law Library and a rooftop garden in the Rockefeller Center. The crew returned to L.A. where production was finished in June.
Design
Although it wound up being faithful to the comics, many designs were made for Spider-Man's costumes: one concept costume designer James Acheson became fond of had a red emblem over a black costume. To create Spider-Man's costume, Maguire was fitted for the skintight suit, being covered with layers of substance to create the suit's shape. It was designed as a single piece, except for the mask. The webbing, which accented the costume, was cut by computer. The mask eye lenses were designed to have a mirror look.
The Green Goblin's costume was created after Willem Dafoe was cast, as Dafoe rejected the initially bulky designs created beforehand. The finished design focused on a more streamlined and athletic feel, and the mask in particular was created to be an extreme cartoon version of his face, focusing on his long cheekbones. Some of the early designs were heavily inspired by black ops. One popular idea among the concept artists was to have the Goblin accompanied by adolescent women in costume and have their own gliders. Raimi hated the idea.
Effects
Visual effects supervisor John Dykstra was hired to produce the visual effects for Spider-Man in May 2000. He convinced Raimi to make many of the stunts computer generated, as they would have been physically impossible. Raimi had used more traditional special effects in his previous films and learned a lot about using computers during production. Raimi worked hard to plan all the sequences of Spider-Man swinging from buildings, which he described as, "ballet in the sky." The complexity of such sequences meant the budget rose from an initially planned $70 million to around $100 million. Shots were made more complicated because of the main characters' individual color schemes, so Spider-Man and the Green Goblin had to be shot seperately for effects shots: Spider-Man was shot in front of a greenscreen, while the Green Goblin was shot against bluescreen. Shooting them together would have resulted in one character being erased from a shot.
Dykstra said the biggest difficulty of creating Spider-Man was that as the character was masked, it immediately lost a lot of characterization. Without the context of eyes or mouth, a lot of body language had to be put in so that there would be emotional content. Raimi wanted to convey the essence of being Spider-Man, being, "the transition that occurs between him being a young man going through puberty and being a superhero." Dykstra said his crew of animators had never reached such a level of sophistication to give subtle hints of still making Spider-Man feel like a human being. When two studio executives were shown shots of the computer generated character, they believed it was actually Maguire performing stunts. In addition, Dykstra's crew had to composite areas of New York City and replaced every car in shots with digital models. Raimi did not want it to feel entirely like animation, so none of the shots were 100% computer generated.
Release
After the terrorist attacks on the United States of September 11, 2001, Sony recalled teaser posters which showed a close-up of Spider-Man's face with the New York skyline (including, prominently, the World Trade Center towers) reflected in his eyes. The movie's original trailer, released in 2001, featured a group of bank robbers on their getaway in a helicopter, which Spider-Man catches in a giant spider-web between the two towers of the World Trade Center. The trailer was pulled after the events of September 11, 2001, attacks and can be found on the internet.
Before Spider-Man's British theatrical release in June 2002, the BBFC gave the film a '12' certificate. Due to Spider-Man's popularity with younger children, this prompted much controversy. The BBFC defended their decision, arguing that the film could have been given a '15'. Despite this, North Norfolk and Breckland District Councils, in East Anglia, changed it to a 'PG', and Tameside council, Manchester, denoted it a 'PG-12'. In late August, the BBFC relaxed their policy to '12A', leading Sony to re-release the film.
Critical reception
Critical reaction to the film was mostly positive. Film review site Rotten Tomatoes calculated a 90% overall approval based on 200 reviews, and it scored an 84% Cream of the Crop rating from major news outlets. The casting, mainly Tobey Maguire, is often cited as one of the high points of the film. Eric Harrison, of the Houston Chronicle, was initially skeptical of the casting of Tobey Maguire, but, after seeing the film, he stated, "within seconds, however, it becomes hard to imagine anyone else in the role." USA Today critic Mike Clark believed the casting rivaled that of 1978's Superman. Owen Gleiberman, of Entertainment Weekly, had mixed feelings about the casting, particularly Tobey Maguire. "Maguire, winning as he is, never quite gets the chance to bring the two sides of Spidey -- the boy and the man, the romantic and the avenger -- together." The Hollywood Reporter's Kirk Honeycutt thought, "the filmmakers' imaginations work in overdrive from the clever design of the cobwebby opening credits and Spider-Man and M.J.'s upside down kiss -- after one of his many rescues of her -- to a finale that leaves character relationships open ended for future adventures."
Not all of the criticism was good, as LA Weekly's Manohla Dargis wrote, "It isn't that Spider-Man is inherently unsuited for live-action translation; it's just that he's not particularly interesting or, well, animated." Giving it 2.5/4 stars, Roger Ebert felt the film lacked a decent action element; "Consider the scene where Spider-Man is given a cruel choice between saving Mary Jane or a cable car full of school kids. He tries to save both, so that everyone dangles from webbing that seems about to pull loose. The visuals here could have given an impression of the enormous weights and tensions involved, but instead the scene seems more like a bloodless storyboard of the idea." Stylistically, there was heavy criticism of the Green Goblin's costume, which led Richard George of IGN to comment years later, "We're not saying the comic book costume is exactly thrilling, but the Goblin armor (the helmet in particular) from Spider-Man is almost comically bad... Not only is it not frightening, it prohibits expression."
Box office performance
Spider-Man was commercially released in the United States on May 3, 2002 in 3,615 theaters. The film earned $114,844,116 during its opening weekend and became the fastest theatrical release to reach $100 million, crossing the milestone in three days. The film's three-day record was later surpassed by Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest in 2006. Spider-Man also set an all-time record for the highest earnings in a single day with $43,622,264 on May 4, 2002, a record later surpassed by Shrek 2 in 2004. In the U.S. box office, Spider-Man became the highest grossing film of 2002 with $403,706,375, defeating The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. Spider-Man currently ranks #7 in the all-time U.S. box office. The film also grossed $821,708,551 worldwide, currently placing it #14 in worldwide box office ranks.
Awards
The film has won several awards ranging from Teen Choice Awards to the Saturn Awards, and was even nominated for two Academy Awards ("Best Visual Effects" and "Best Sound"). While only Danny Elfman brought home a Saturn Award, Raimi, Maguire, and Dunst were all nominated for their respective positions. It also took home the People's Choice Award for "Favorite Motion Picture."
19. Star Wars (1977)
(Collections: $797,900,000)
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope (originally released as Star Wars) is a 1977 space opera film, produced, written, and directed by George Lucas. It was the first of six films released in the Star Wars saga; three later films precede the story in the series' internal chronology. Ground-breaking in its use of special effects, this first Star Wars movie is one of the most successful films of all time and generally considered one of the most influential as well.
Set far in the past, the movie tells the story of a plot against an oppressive Galactic Empire by a group of freedom fighters known as the Rebel Alliance. Seeking to make their authority absolute the Empire has recently completed its ultimate weapon: the Death Star, a moon-sized battle station capable of destroying a planet. Even so, spies have managed to obtain schematic plans of the station in the hope of finding a weakness. Rebel Leader Princess Leia Organa is racing to transport these plans to the rebel base when her ship is attacked and she and the crew are captured by Imperial forces. In a desperate attempt to complete her mission, Leia hides the plans within one of her two servant androids and records a quick message to former military general and rebel sympathizer: Obi-Wan Kenobi. Explaining her circumstances she begs Kenobi see that the plans are delivered safely to the base. The androids are then launched, in an escape pod, to Obi-Wan's home planet of Tatooine, where they come into the possession of teenaged farmer, Luke Skywalker. The secret message is soon discovered and Skywalker sets off to locate Kenobi and find a way to help the Princess.
Inspired by films like the Flash Gordon serials and the samurai films of Akira Kurosawa, as well as such critical works as Joseph Campbell's The Hero with a Thousand Faces, Lucas began work on Star Wars in 1974. Produced with a budget of US$11,000,000 and released on May 25, 1977, the film became one of the most successful of all time, earning $460 million in the United States and $337 million overseas, as well as receiving several film awards, including 10 Academy Award nominations. It was re-released several times, sometimes with significant changes; the most notable versions were the 1997 Special Edition and the 2004 DVD, which were modified with CGI effects and recreated scenes.
Story and Plo Point
An opening crawl reveals that the galaxy is in a state of civil war. The Rebel Alliance has stolen plans to the Galactic Empire's Death Star, a space station capable of annihilating a planet. Princess Leia Organa of Alderaan has possession of the plans, and before she is captured by the Empire, she hides them, along with a holographic recording, in a "droid" named R2-D2. The small droid escapes with his humanoid partner C-3PO to the surface of the desert planet Tatooine below. On Tatooine, the droids are captured by Jawas, who sell them to moisture farmer Owen Lars and his nephew, Luke Skywalker. While Luke cleans R2-D2, he accidentally triggers part of a holographic message, in which Princess Leia requests the help of "Obi-Wan Kenobi." The only Kenobi he knows is Ben Kenobi, a hermit who lives in the nearby hills, but Uncle Owen dismisses any connection.
Later, R2-D2 escapes, causing Luke and C-3PO to go out after him. Luke is attacked by Tusken Raiders. Along the way, they meet the "old wizard" Ben Kenobi, who reveals himself to be Obi-Wan. He takes them back to his hut and tells of his days as a Jedi Knight, and explains to Luke about a mysterious energy field called "the Force". He also tells Luke about his father, Anakin Skywalker, gives him his father's lightsaber, and tells him that Anakin had been "betrayed and murdered" by Obi-Wan's former pupil, Darth Vader. Obi-Wan then views Princess Leia's message, in which she begs him to take R2-D2 and the Death Star plans to Alderaan, where her father will be able to retrieve and analyze them. Obi-Wan asks Luke to accompany him to Alderaan and to learn the ways of the Force. After discovering that his home has been destroyed and his aunt and uncle killed by Imperial stormtroopers, Luke agrees to go with Obi-Wan to Alderaan, and to learn to become a Jedi like his father. At the seedy Mos Eisley Spaceport, the group finds a smuggler named Han Solo and his Wookie friend Chewbacca, who agree to transport them on their ship, the Millennium Falcon. Attacked by stormtroopers as they board the ship, they make a hasty escape and prepare for a hyperspace leap to Alderaan.
Meanwhile, Leia has been imprisoned on the Death Star and has resisted interrogation. Grand Moff Tarkin, the Death Star's commanding officer, destroys her home planet of Alderaan as a means of demonstrating the power of the Empire's new weapon. The planet's destruction is felt by Obi-Wan aboard the Millennium Falcon while he is instructing Luke about the Force. Arriving at the coordinates for the planet, they are bombarded instead by rubble from the explosion. Following a TIE Fighter toward what appears to be a small moon, they are captured by the Death Star's tractor beam. Using hidden compartments to surprise Imperial stormtroopers and donning their armor as disguises, Han and Luke escape to a command room to wait while Obi-Wan attempts to disable the tractor beam. While they are there, R2-D2 discovers that Princess Leia is scheduled for termination. Han and Luke stage a rescue on the cell block, but they are forced into a garbage chute when their escape route is cut off. Making their way back to the Millennium Falcon, their path is cleared by the spectacle of a lightsaber duel between Darth Vader and his former master, Obi-Wan Kenobi. Warning the dark lord that he will become "more powerful than you can possibly imagine," the old Jedi allows himself to be struck down as the others escape toward a hidden rebel base. A beacon hidden aboard the ship allows the Empire to track their route.
After landing on Yavin IV, the Death Star plans are analyzed by the Rebel Alliance and a potential weakness is found, one which will require the use of single-man fighters to slip past the Death Star's formidable defenses. Luke joins the assault team while Han collects his reward for the Princess' rescue. The attack proceeds as planned but suffers heavy losses without a successful torpedo hit in the small thermal exhaust port which would create a chain reaction. During Luke's run, Darth Vader engages the Rebels in ship-to-ship combat, but before he can destroy Luke, the Milennium Falcon appears and destroys one of Vader's wingmen while the other wingman shouts "Look out!" and attempts to veer away from the Falcon but instead veers into Vader's fighter and is destroyed crashing into the trench wall. Vader is last seen spinning out of control into outer space. Guided by the voice of Obi-Wan to "use the Force," Luke shuts off his targeting computer and fires the successful shot which destroys the Death Star seconds before it could attack the Rebel base. At a grand ceremony, Princess Leia awards medals to Luke and Han for their heroism in the battle.
Production
During post-production on his previous film, American Graffiti, Lucas repeatedly discussed the concept of a "space opera" with producer Gary Kurtz. In May 1973, Lucas had prepared a 14-page story outline for distribution among film studios. Because of its outer space setting, the story was viewed as science fiction, an unpopular genre at the box office. Lucas later proposed that terms like "space fantasy" or "science fantasy" better fit the story. He brought the outline to Universal Studios and United Artists; both rejected the project. Lucas disliked the studio system because his previous two films, American Graffiti and THX 1138, had been re-edited without his consent. Still, aware that studios were unavoidable, he pursued Alan Ladd, Jr., the head of 20th Century Fox. Although Ladd did not grasp the technical side of the project, he believed that Lucas was talented. Lucas later stated that Ladd "invested in me, he did not invest in the movie."
Lucas finished a draft of the screenplay in May 1974. As the draft developed, the characters evolved significantly. Early in development, Luke Skywalker's character changed from a 60-year-old general to a member of a family of dwarfs; the Corellian smuggler, Han Solo, was envisioned as a large, green-skinned monster with gills. Chewbacca was inspired by Lucas' Alaskan malamute dog, Indiana, who often acted as the director's "co-pilot" by sitting in the passenger seat of his car. The Force, a mysterious energy field, was initially conceived as the Kyber crystal, a "galactic holy grail." The completed script was too long for one movie; however, Lucas refused to condense it. Instead, he expanded the first third of it into one movie and left the rest for two future films, effectively creating the original Star Wars trilogy.
Lucas hired conceptual artist Ralph McQuarrie to create paintings of certain scenes during screenwriting. When Lucas delivered his screenplay to the studio, he included several of McQuarrie's paintings. 20th Century Fox approved a budget of $8,250,000; American Graffiti's positive reviews allowed Lucas to renegotiate his deal with Alan Ladd, Jr. and request the sequel rights to the film. For Lucas, this deal protected Star Wars' unwritten segments and most of the merchandising profits.
In 1975, Lucas founded the visual effects company Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) after discovering that 20th Century Fox's visual effects department had been disbanded. ILM began its work on Star Wars in a warehouse in Van Nuys, California. Most of the visual effects used motion control photography, which creates the illusion of size by employing small models and slowly moving cameras. Model spaceships were constructed on the basis of drawings by Joe Johnston, input from Lucas, and paintings by McQuarrie. Lucas opted to abandon the traditional sleekness of science fiction by creating a "used universe" in which all devices, ships, and buildings looked aged and dirty.
A traditional underground building in Matmâta, Tunisia, was used as a set for Luke's home on Tatooine.
When filming began on March 22, 1976 in the Tunisian desert for the scenes on the planet Tatooine, the project faced several problems. Lucas fell behind schedule in the first week of shooting due to a rare Tunisian rainstorm, malfunctioning props, and electronic breakdowns. When actor Anthony Daniels wore the C-3PO outfit for the first time, the left leg piece shattered down through the plastic covering his left foot, stabbing him. After completing filming in Tunisia, production moved into the more controlled environment of Elstree Studios, near London. However, significant problems, such as a crew that had little interest in the film, still arose. Most of the crew considered the project a "children's film," rarely took their work seriously, and often found it unintentionally humorous. Actor Kenny Baker later confessed that he thought the film would be a failure. Harrison Ford found the film "weird," in that there was a Princess with buns for hair and what he called a "giant in a monkey suit" named Chewbacca. Ford also found the dialogue difficult, saying "You can type this shit, George, but you sure can't say it."
Lucas clashed with Director of Photography Gilbert Taylor, whom producer Gary Kurtz called "old-school" and "crotchety." Moreover, with a background in independent filmmaking, Lucas was accustomed to creating most of the elements of the film himself. His camera suggestions were rejected by an offended Taylor, who felt that Lucas was over-stepping his boundaries by giving specific instructions. Lucas eventually became frustrated that the costumes, sets and other elements were not living up to his original vision of Star Wars. He rarely spoke to the actors, who felt that he expected too much of them while providing little direction. His directions to the actors usually consisted of the words "faster" and "more intense."
Ladd offered Lucas some of the only support from the studio; he dealt with scrutiny from board members over the rising budget and complex screenplay drafts. After production fell two weeks behind schedule, Ladd told Lucas that he had to finish production within a week or he would be forced to shut down production. The crew split into three units, led by Lucas, Kurtz, and production supervisor Robert Watts, respectively. Under the new system, the project met the studio's deadline.
During production, the cast attempted to make Lucas laugh or smile as he often appeared depressed. At one point, the project became so demanding that Lucas was diagnosed with hypertension and exhaustion and was warned to reduce his stress level. Post-production was equally stressful due to increasing pressure from 20th Century Fox. Moreover, Mark Hamill's face was injured in a car accident, which made reshoots impossible.
Star Wars was originally slated for release in Christmas 1976; however, delays pushed the film's release to Summer 1977. Already anxious about meeting his deadline, Lucas was shocked when his editor's first cut of the film was a "complete disaster." After attempting to persuade the original editor to cut the film his way, Lucas replaced the editor with Paul Hirsch and Richard Chew. He also allowed his then-wife Marcia Lucas to aid the editing process while she was cutting the film New York, New York with Lucas' friend Martin Scorsese. Richard Chew found the film had an unenergetic pace; it had been cut in a by-the-book manner: scenes were played out in master shots that flowed into close-up coverage. He found that the pace was dictated by the actors instead of the cuts. Hirsch and Chew worked on two reels simultaneously; whoever finished first moved on to the next.
Meanwhile, Industrial Light & Magic was struggling to achieve unprecedented special effects. The company had spent half of its budget on four shots that Lucas deemed unacceptable. Moreover, theories surfaced that the workers at ILM lacked discipline, forcing Lucas to intervene frequently to ensure that they were on schedule. With hundreds of uncompleted shots remaining, ILM was forced to finish a year's work in six months. Lucas inspired ILM by editing together aerial dogfights from old war films, which enhanced the pacing of the scenes.
During the chaos of production and post-production, the team made decisions about character voicing and sound effects. Sound designer Ben Burtt had created a library of sounds that Lucas referred to as an "organic soundtrack." For Chewbacca's growls, Burtt recorded and combined sounds made by dogs, bears, lions, tigers, and walruses to create phrases and sentences. Lucas and Burtt created the robotic voice of R2-D2 by filtering their voices through an electronic synthesizer. Darth Vader's breathing was achieved by Burtt breathing through the mask of a scuba tank implanted with a microphone. Lucas never intended to use the voice of David Prowse, who portrayed Darth Vader in costume, because of Prowse's English West Country accent. He originally wanted Orson Welles to speak for Darth Vader. However, he felt that Welles' voice would be too recognizable, so he cast the lesser-known James Earl Jones. Nor did Lucas intend to use Anthony Daniels' voice for C-3PO. Thirty well-established voice actors, such as Stan Freberg, read for the voice of the droid. According to Daniels, one of the major voice actors, believed by some sources to be Stan Freberg, recommended Daniels' voice for the role.
When Lucas screened an early cut of the film for his friends, among them directors Brian De Palma, John Milius and Steven Spielberg, their reactions were disappointing. Spielberg, who claimed to have been the only person in the audience to have enjoyed the film, believed that the lack of enthusiasm was due to the absence of finished special effects. Lucas later said that the group was honest and seemed bemused by the film. In contrast, Alan Ladd, Jr. and the rest of 20th Century Fox loved the film; one of the executives, Gareth Wigan, told Lucas, "This is the greatest film I've ever seen," and cried during the screening. Lucas found the experience shocking and rewarding, having never gained any approval from studio executives before. Although the delays increased the budget from $8 million to $11 million, the film was still the least expensive of the Star Wars saga.
Releases
Charles Lippincott was hired by Lucas' production company, Lucasfilm Ltd., as marketing director for Star Wars. Because 20th Century Fox gave little support for marketing beyond licensing T-shirts and posters, Lippincott was forced to look elsewhere. He secured deals with Stan Lee, Roy Thomas and Marvel Comics for a comic book adaptation and with Del Rey Books for a novelization. Wary that Star Wars would be beaten out by other summer films, such as Smokey and the Bandit, 20th Century Fox moved the release date to Wednesday before Memorial Day: May 25, 1977. However, few theaters ordered the film to be shown. In response, 20th Century Fox demanded that theaters order Star Wars if they wanted an eagerly anticipated film based on a best-selling novel titled The Other Side of Midnight.
The film became an instant success; within three weeks of the film's release, 20th Century Fox's stock price doubled to a record high. Before 1977, 20th Century Fox's greatest annual profits were $37,000,000; in 1977, the company earned $79,000,000. Although the film's cultural neutrality helped it to gain international success, Ladd became anxious during the premiere in Japan. After the screening, the audience was silent, leading Ladd, Jr. to fear that the film would be unsuccessful. He was later told that, in Japan, silence was the greatest honor to a film. Meanwhile, thousands of people attended the ceremony at Grauman's Chinese Theatre, where C-3PO, R2-D2 and Darth Vader placed their footprints in the theater's forecourt. Although Star Wars merchandise was available to enthusiastic children upon release, only Kenner Toys—who believed that the film would be unsuccessful—had accepted Lippincott's licensing offers. Kenner responded to the sudden demand for toys by selling boxed vouchers in its "empty box" Christmas campaign; these vouchers could be redeemed for the toys in March 1978.
In 1978, at the height of the film's popularity, Smith-Hemion Productions approached Lucas with the idea of The Star Wars Holiday Special. The end result is often considered a failure; Lucas himself disowned it. Lucas entered into a wager with long-time friend Steven Spielberg during the production of Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Lucas was sure Close Encounters would outperform the yet-to-be-released Star Wars at the box office and bet 2.5% of the proceeds of each film against each other. Lucas lost the bet, of course, and to this day Spielberg is still receiving proceeds from the first of the Star Wars movies.
The film was originally released as—and consequently often called—Star Wars, without Episode IV or the subtitle A New Hope. The 1980 sequel, Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, featured an episode number and subtitle in the opening crawl. When the original film was re-released in 1981, Episode IV: A New Hope was added above the original opening crawl. Although Lucas claims that only six films were ever planned, representatives of Lucasfilm discussed plans for nine or 12 possible films in early interviews. The film was re-released theatrically in 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, and 1997.
Special Edition
After ILM used computer generated effects for Steven Spielberg's Jurassic Park, Lucas concluded that digital technology had caught up to his original vision for Star Wars. As part of Star Wars' 20th Anniversary celebration in 1997, A New Hope was digitally remastered and re-released to theatres, along with The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, under the campaign title The Star Wars Trilogy: Special Edition. The Special Edition versions contained visual shots and scenes that were unachievable in the original release due to financial, technological, and time restraints; one such scene involved a meeting between Han Solo and Jabba the Hutt. Although most changes were minor or cosmetic in nature, some fans believe that Lucas degraded the movie with the additions. For instance, a particularly controversial change in which a bounty hunter named Greedo shoots first when confronting Han Solo has inspired T-shirts brandishing the phrase "Han Shot First."
DVD release
A New Hope was released on DVD on September 21, 2004 in a box set with The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and a bonus disc of supplemental material. The movies were digitally restored and remastered, and more changes were made by George Lucas.
The DVD features a commentary track from George Lucas, Ben Burtt, Dennis Muren, and Carrie Fisher. The bonus disc contains the documentary Empire of Dreams: The Story of the Star Wars Trilogy, three featurettes, teaser and theatrical trailers, TV spots, still galleries, an exclusive preview of Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, a playable Xbox demo of the LucasArts game Star Wars Battlefront, and a "Making Of" documentary on the Episode III video game. The set was reissued in December 2005 as part of a three-disc "limited edition" boxed set without the bonus disc.
The trilogy was re-released on separate two-disc Limited Edition DVD sets from September 12 to December 31, 2006; the original versions of the films were added as bonus material. Controversy surrounded the release because the unaltered versions were from the 1993 non-anamorphic Laserdisc masters, and were not retransferred with modern video standards.
Reaction
Star Wars debuted on May 25, 1977 in 32 theaters, and proceeded to break house records, effectively becoming one of the first blockbuster films. It remains one of the most financially successful films of all time. Some of the cast and crew noted lines of people stretching around theaters as they drove by. Even technical crew members, such as model makers, were asked for autographs, and cast members became instant household names. The film's original total U.S. gross came to $307,263,857, and it earned $6,806,951 during its first weekend in wide release. Lucas claimed that he had spent most of the release day in a sound studio in Los Angeles. When he went out for lunch with his then-wife Marcia, they encountered a long queue of people along the sidewalks leading to Mann's Chinese Theatre, waiting to see Star Wars. The film became the highest-grossing film of 1977 and the highest-grossing film of all time until E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial broke that record in 1982. (With subsequent rereleases, Star Wars reclaimed the title, but lost it again to James Cameron's 1997 blockbuster Titanic.) The film earned $797,900,000 worldwide, making it the first film to reach the $300 million mark. Adjusted for inflation it is the second highest grossing movie of all time in the United States, behind Gone with the Wind.
In a 1977 review, Roger Ebert called the film "an out-of-body experience," compared its special effects to those of 2001: A Space Odyssey, and opined that the true strength of the film was its "pure narrative." Vincent Canby called the film "the movie that's going to entertain a lot of contemporary folk who have a soft spot for the virtually ritualized manners of comic-book adventure." Pauline Kael of The New Yorker criticized the film, stating that "there's no breather in the picture, no lyricism," and that it had no "emotional grip." Jonathon Rosenbaum of the Chicago Reader stated, "None of these characters has any depth, and they're all treated like the fanciful props and settings!" Peter Keough of the Boston Phoenix said "Star Wars is a junkyard of cinematic gimcracks not unlike the Jawas' heap of purloined, discarded, barely functioning droids." Stanley Kauffmann of The New Republic also responded negatively, noting, "His work here seems less inventive than in THX 1138." According to rottentomatoes.com, of the 54 critical reviews of the film provided on that site, 51 responded favorably (95% of the reviewers), stating in consensus that "the action and special effects are first rate."
In 1989, the U.S. National Film Registry of the Library of Congress selected the film as a "culturally, historically, or aesthetically important" film. In 2006, Lucas' original screenplay was selected by the Writers Guild of America as the 68th greatest of all time. The American Film Institute (or AFI) listed it 15th on a list of the top 100 films of the 20th century; in the UK, a poll created by Channel Four named A New Hope (together with its successor, The Empire Strikes Back) the greatest film of all time. The American Film Institute has named Star Wars and specific elements of it to several of its "top 100 lists" of American cinema, compiled as a part of the Institute's 100th anniversary celebration. These include the 27th most thrilling American film of all time; the thirty-ninth most inspirational American film of all-time; Han Solo as the fourteenth greatest American film hero of all time and Obi-Wan Kenobi thirty-seventh on the same list. The often repeated line "May the Force be with you" was ranked as the 8th greatest quote in American film history. John Williams' score was ranked as the greatest American film score of all time.
Star Wars won several awards at the 50th Annual Academy Awards, including Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, which went to John Barry, Norman Reynolds, Leslie Dilley and Roger Christian. Best Costume Design was awarded to John Mollo; Best Film Editing went to Paul Hirsch, Marcia Lucas and Richard Chew; John Stears, John Dykstra, Richard Edlund, Grant McCune and Robert Blalack all received awards for Best Effects, Visual Effects. John Williams was awarded his third Oscar for Best Music, Original Score; the Best Sound went to Don MacDougall, Ray West, Bob Minkler and Derek Ball; and a Special Achievement for Sound Effects went to Ben Burtt. Additional nominations included Alec Guinness for Best Actor in a Supporting Role, George Lucas for Best Screenplay and Best Director, although it did not win Best Picture, which went to "Annie Hall". At the Golden Globe awards, the film was nominated for Best Motion Picture - Drama, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor (Alec Guinness), and Best Score. It only won the award for Best Score. It received six BAFTA nominations: Best Film, Best Editing, Best Costume, Best Production/Art Design, Best Sound, and Best Score; the film won in the latter two categories. John Williams' soundtrack album won the Grammy award for Best Album of an original score for a motion picture or television program, and the film was awarded the Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation. In 1997, the MTV Movie Awards awarded Chewbacca the lifetime achievement award for his work in the Star Wars trilogy. Star Wars has also been the subject of many parodies, including South Park and Family Guy.
Cinematic influence
Star Wars has influenced many films and filmmakers since its release. It began a new generation of special effects and high-energy motion pictures. The film was one of the first films to link genres—such as space opera and soap opera—together to invent a new, high-concept genre for filmmakers to build upon. Finally, it shifted the film industry's focus away from personal filmmaking of the 1970s and towards big-budget blockbusters for younger audiences.
Actor Michael Shanks cited Star Wars as an influence on many battle scenes from the television series Stargate SG-1, namely "Fallen." Joss Whedon's Serenity features several references: the spaceship Serenity, influenced by the Millennium Falcon; a "used future" where vehicles and culture are obviously dated; and clothing for its own evil empire. After seeing Star Wars, director James Cameron quit his job as a truck driver to enter the film industry. Other filmmakers who have said to have been influenced by Star Wars include Peter Jackson, Ridley Scott, Dean Devlin, Roland Emmerich, Kevin Smith and John Singleton. Scott, like Whedon, was influenced by the "used future" and extended the concept for his science fiction horror film Alien. Jackson used the concept for his production of the Lord of the Rings trilogy to add a sense of realism and believability.
Some critics have blamed Star Wars and also Jaws for "ruining" Hollywood by shifting its focus from "sophisticated" and "relevant" films such as The Godfather, Taxi Driver, and Annie Hall to films about "spectacle" and "juvenile fantasy."Peter Biskind complained for the same reason: "When all was said and done, Lucas and Spielberg returned the 1970s audience, grown sophisticated on a diet of European and New Hollywood films, to the simplicities of the pre-1960s Golden Age of movies… They marched backward through the looking-glass."
Cast
Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker. Skywalker is a young man who lives with his aunt and uncle on a remote planet and who dreams of something greater than his current position in life.
Harrison Ford as Han Solo. Solo is a self-centered smuggler whom Obi-Wan and Luke meet in a cantina and with whom they later travel. Solo, who owns the ship Millennium Falcon, is good friends with Chewbacca, the ship's co-pilot.
Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia Organa. Organa is a member of the Imperial Senate and a leader of the Rebel Alliance. She plans to use the stolen Death Star plans to find the station's weakness.
Alec Guinness as Obi-Wan "Ben" Kenobi. Kenobi is an aging man who served as a Jedi Master during the Clone Wars. Early in the film, Kenobi introduces Luke to the Force.
David Prowse as Darth Vader. Vader is a Dark Lord of the Sith, and a prominent figure in the Galactic Empire who hopes to destroy the Rebel Alliance. He was Obi-Wan's apprentice before turning to the dark side of the Force. He was voiced by James Earl Jones.
Anthony Daniels as C-3PO. C-3PO is an interpreter droid who falls into the hands of Luke Skywalker. He is rarely without his counterpart droid, R2-D2.
Kenny Baker as R2-D2. R2-D2 is a mechanic droid who also falls into the hands of Luke. He is carrying a secret message for Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca. Chewbacca is the Wookiee co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon and a close friend of Han Solo.
Peter Cushing as Grand Moff Tarkin. Tarkin is the commander of the Death Star and a Regional Governor. He leads the search for the Rebel Base, hoping to destroy it.
Denis Lawson as Wedge Antilles. Wedge is a starfighter pilot who fights with Luke in the Battle of Yavin. In the ending credits, Lawson's first name is misspelled "Dennis."
Lucas shared a joint casting session with long-time friend Brian De Palma, who was casting his own film Carrie. As a result, Carrie Fisher and Sissy Spacek auditioned for both films in each other's respective roles. Lucas favored casting young actors without long-time experience. While reading for Luke Skywalker (then known as "Luke Starkiller"), Hamill found the dialogue to be extremely odd because of its universe-embedded concepts. He chose to simply read it sincerely and was selected instead of William Katt, who was subsequently cast in Carrie. Lucas initially rejected the idea of using Harrison Ford, as he had previously worked with him on American Graffiti, and instead asked Ford to assist in the auditions by reading lines with the other actors and explaining the concepts and history behind the scenes that they were reading. Lucas was eventually won over by Ford's portrayal and cast him instead of Kurt Russell, Nick Nolte, Christopher Walken, Billy Dee Williams and Perry King. Virtually every young actress in Hollywood auditioned for the role of Princess Leia, including Terri Nunn, Jodie Foster and Cindy Williams. Carrie Fisher was cast under the condition that she lose 10 pounds of weight for the role. Aware that the studio disagreed with his refusal to cast big-name stars, Lucas signed veteran stage and screen actor Alec Guinness as Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Additional casting took place in London, where Mayhew was cast as Chewbacca after he stood up to greet Lucas. Lucas immediately turned to Gary Kurtz, and requested that Mayhew be cast. Daniels auditioned for and was cast as C-3PO after he saw a McQuarrie drawing of the character; struck by the vulnerability in the robot's face, he instantly wanted to help to bring the character to life.
Cinematic and literary allusions
According to Lucas, the film was inspired by numerous sources, such as Beowulf and King Arthur for the origins of myth and world religions. Lucas originally wanted to rely heavily on the 1930s Flash Gordon film serials; however, Lucas resorted to Akira Kurosawa's film The Hidden Fortress and Joseph Campbell's The Hero With a Thousand Faces because of copyright issues with Flash Gordon. Star Wars features several parallels to Buck Rogers and Flash Gordon, such as the conflict between Rebels and Imperial Forces, the "wipes" between scenes, and the famous "opening crawl" that begins each film. A concept borrowed from Flash Gordon—a fusion of futuristic technology and traditional magic—was originally developed by one of the founders of science fiction, H.G. Wells. Wells believed the Industrial Revolution had quietly destroyed the idea that fairy-tale magic might be real. Thus, he found that plausibility was required to allow myth to work properly, and substituted elements of the Industrial Era: time machines instead of magic carpets, Martians instead of dragons, and scientists instead of wizards. Wells called his new genre "scientific fantasia."
Star Wars was influenced by the 1958 Kurosawa film The Hidden Fortress; for instance, the two bickering peasants evolved into C-3PO and R2-D2, and a Japanese family crest seen in the film is similar to the Imperial Crest. Star Wars borrows heavily from another Kurosawa film, Yojimbo. In both films, several men threaten the hero, bragging how wanted they are by authorities. The situation ends with an arm being cut off by a blade. Mifune is offered "twenty-five ryo now, twenty-five when you complete the mission." whereas Han Solo is offered "Two thousand now, plus fifteen when we reach Alderaan." Lucas' affection for Kurosawa may have influenced his decision to visit Japan in the early 1970s, leading some to believe he borrowed the name "Jedi" from jidaigeki (which in English means "period dramas," and refers to films typically featuring samurai).
Lucas also drew inspiration from J. R. R. Tolkien's fantasy series The Lord of the Rings. Obi-Wan Kenobi is similar to the Wizard Gandalf, albeit in differing fashions, and Darth Vader resembles the Witch-king of Angmar in that both are the chief servants of a higher evil power and dress in black. Luke watches the duel of Obi-Wan and Vader from across a chasm as Frodo witnessed the duel between Gandalf and the Balrog; both feature their respective blue and red melee weapons. There are numerous other similarities between the two works.
Tatooine is similar to Arrakis from Frank Herbert's book Dune. Arrakis is the only known source of a longevity drug called the Spice Melange; Han Solo is a spice smuggler who has been through the spice mines of Kessel. Lucas' original concept of the film dealt heavily with the transport of spice, although the nature of the material remained unexplored. In the conversation at Obi-Wan Kenobi's home between Obi-Wan and Luke, Luke expresses a belief that his father was a navigator on a spice freighter. Other similarities include those between Princess Leia and Princess Alia (pronounced /əˈliːə/), and between Jedi mind tricks and "The Voice," a controlling ability used by Bene Gesserit. In passing, Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru are "Moisture Farmers"; in Dune, Dew Collectors are used by Fremen to "provide a small but reliable source of water." Frank Herbert says that, during production of the Dune film, he calculated the odds of points of similarity between Star Wars and Dune being a coincidence. The results came out as greater than the number of stars in the galaxy-to-one against.
The Death Star assault scene was modeled after the 1950s movie The Dam Busters, in which Royal Air Force Lancaster bombers fly along heavily defended reservoirs and aim "bouncing bombs" at their man-made dams to cripple the heavy industry of the Ruhr. Some of the dialogue in The Dam Busters is repeated in the A New Hope climax; Gilbert Taylor also filmed the special effects sequences in The Dam Busters. In addition, the sequence was partially inspired by the climax of the film 633 Squadron directed by Walter Grauman.
The opening shot of Star Wars, in which a detailed spaceship fills the screen overhead, is a nod to the scene introducing the interplanetary spacecraft Discovery One in Stanley Kubrick's seminal 1968 film 2001: A Space Odyssey. The earlier big-budget science fiction film influenced the look of A New Hope in many other ways, including the use of EVA pods, hexagonal corridors, and primitive computer graphics. The Death Star has a docking bay reminiscent of the one on the orbiting space station in 2001. The film also draws on The Wizard of Oz: similarities exist between Jawas and Munchkins, the main characters disguise themselves as enemy soldiers, and Obi-Wan dies, leaving only his empty robe in the same fashion as the Wicked Witch of the West. Although golden and male, C-3PO is inspired by the robot Maria from Fritz Lang's 1927 film Metropolis. His whirring sounds were speculated to be inspired by the clanking noises of the Tin Woodsman in The Wizard of Oz.
Soundtrack
On the recommendation of his friend Steven Spielberg, Lucas hired composer John Williams, who had worked with Spielberg on the film Jaws, for which he won an Academy Award. Lucas felt that the film would portray visually foreign worlds, but that the musical score would give the audience an emotional familiarity. In March 1977, Williams conducted the London Symphony Orchestra to record the Star Wars soundtrack in twelve days.
Lucas wanted a grand musical sound for Star Wars, with leitmotifs to provide distinction. Therefore, he assembled his favorite orchestral pieces for the soundtrack, until John Williams convinced him that an original score would be unique and more unified. However, a few of Williams pieces were influenced by the tracks given to him by Lucas. The "Main Title Theme" was inspired by the theme from the 1942 film King's Row, scored by Erich Wolfgang Korngold, and the track "Dune Sea of Tatooine" drew from the soundtrack from Bicycle Thieves, scored by Alessandro Cicognini. The American Film Institute's list of best scores lists Star Wars' soundtrack at number one.
Novelization
The novelization of the film was published in December 1976, six months before the film was released. The credited author was George Lucas, but the book was revealed to have been ghostwritten by Alan Dean Foster, who later wrote the first Expanded Universe novel, Splinter of the Mind's Eye. The book was first published as Star Wars: From the Adventures of Luke Skywalker; later editions were titled simply Star Wars (1995) and, later, Star Wars: A New Hope (1997), to reflect the retitling of the film. Certain scenes deleted from the film (and later restored or archived in DVD bonus features) were always present in the novel (since it had been based on the screenplay), such as Luke at Tosche Station with Biggs and the encounter between Han and Jabba (referred to as "Jabba the Hut") in Docking Bay 94. Other deleted scenes from the movie, such as a close-up of a stormtrooper riding on a Dewback, were included in a photo insert added to later printings of the book.
Smaller details were also different from the film version; for example, in the Death Star assault, Luke's callsign is Blue Five instead of Red Five as in the film. Charles Lippincott secured the deal with Del Rey Books to publish the novelization in November 1976. By February 1977, a half million copies had been sold.
Radio drama
A radio drama adaptation of the film was written by Brian Daley, directed by John Madden, and produced for and broadcast on the American National Public Radio network in 1981. The adaptation received cooperation from George Lucas, who donated the rights to NPR. John Williams' music and Ben Burtt's sound design were retained for the show; Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker) and Anthony Daniels (C-3PO) reprised their roles as well. The radio drama featured scenes not seen in the final cut of the film, such as Luke Skywalker's observation of the space battle above Tatooine through binoculars, a skyhopper race, and Darth Vader's interrogation of Princess Leia. In terms of Star Wars canon, the radio drama is given the highest designation (like the screenplay and novelization), G-canon.
20. Shrek the Third (2007)
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The Fellowship of the Ring makes extensive use of digital, practical and make-up special effects throughout. One noticeable illusion that appears in almost every scene involves setting a proper scale so that the characters are all the correct height. Elijah Wood, who plays Frodo, is 5ft 6in (1.68 m) tall in real life, but the character of Frodo Baggins is barely four feet in height. Many different tricks were used to depict the hobbits (and Gimli the Dwarf) as being of diminutive stature. (As a matter of good fortune, John-Rhys Davies — who played Gimli — is as tall compared to the hobbit actors as his character needed to be compared to theirs, so he did not need to be filmed separately as a third variation of height.) Large and small scale doubles were used in certain scenes, while entire duplicates of certain sets (including Bag End in Hobbiton) were built at two different scales, so that the characters would appear to be the appropriate size. At one point in the film, Frodo runs along a corridor in Bag End, followed by Gandalf. Elijah Wood and Ian McKellen were filmed in separate versions of the same corridor, built at two different scales, and a fast camera pan conceals the edit between the two. Forced perspective was also employed, so that it would look as though the short hobbits were interacting with taller Men and Elves. Even the simple ruse of kneeling down, to the film makers' surprise, turned out to be an effective method in the making of this illusion.
For the battle between the Last Alliance and the forces of Sauron that begins the film, an elaborate CGI animation system, called Massive, was developed by Stephen Regelous that would allow thousands of individual animated "characters" in the program to act independently. This helped give the illusion of realism to the battle sequences. The "Making of" of the Lord of the Rings DVD reports of some interesting initial problems: In the first execution of a battle between groups of characters, the wrong groups attacked each other. In another early demo, some of the warriors at the edge of the field could be seen running away. The reason was not that they were programmed for cowardice (or survival) and could not see the enemy so they just ran away, but that they were initially moving in the wrong direction, and had been programmed to keep running until they encountered an enemy.
The digital creatures were important due to Jackson's requirement of biological plausibility. All were scanned from large maquettes before numerous digital detail of their skeletons and muscles. In the case of the Balrog, Gary Horsfield created a system that copied recorded imagery of fire.
Score
The musical score for the Lord of the Rings films was composed by Howard Shore. It was performed by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, The London Philharmonic Orchestra, The London Voices and featured several vocal soloists. Two original songs, Aníron, and the end title theme "May It Be", were composed and sung by Enya, who allowed her label, Reprise Records, to release the soundtrack to this and its two sequels. In addition to this Shore composed "In Dreams" which was sung by Edward Ross of the London Oratory School Schola.
Awards
In 2002 the movie won four Academy Awards out of thirteen nominations. The winning categories were for Best Cinematography, Best Effects (Visual Effects), Best Makeup, and Best Music (Original Score). Despite its praise by fans, the other nominated categories of Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Ian McKellen), Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Music (Best Song) (Enya, Nicky Ryan and Roma Ryan for "May It Be"), Best Picture, Best Sound, Costume Design and Best Writing (Best Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published) were not won.
The movie won the 2002 Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation. It also won Empire readers' Best Film award, as well as five BAFTAs, including Best Film, the David Lean Award for Direction, the Audience Award (voted for by the public), Best Special Effects, and Best Make-up. After the close of its theatrical run, it ranked in the top ten highest grossing movies worldwide, with takings of $860,700,000 USA dollars from world-wide theatrical box office receipts.
DVD release
Extended Edition
The success of the theatrical cut of the film brought about an Extended Edition (208 minutes), with new editing, added special effects and music. This version was released on DVD November 12, 2002 along with four commentaries and hours of supplementary material. It was so successful that the sequels were each given similar releases.
Notable among the restored scenes is a new beginning to the film (following the prologue) and many character-building elements, showing sides of various protagonists (notably Aragorn and Galadriel) that were absent from the theatrical cut, which was largely edited around the character of Frodo. Additional scenes included:
Isildur's death.
Bilbo's opening narration "Concerning Hobbits".
Bilbo at Bag-End avoiding the Sackville-Bagginses.
Bilbo and Frodo dialogue at the party scene, while avoiding the Sackville-Bagginses.
The Hobbits at the Green Dragon.
Frodo and Sam seeing Wood Elves making their way to the Grey Havens on their first day of their journey across the Shire.
The crossing of Midgewater.
Aragorn singing "The Lay of Lúthien".
Sam shows Frodo the trolls when they are at Trollshaws.
Gandalf reciting Black Speech at the Council of Elrond.
Aragorn visiting his mother's grave.
The Fellowship given a goodbye at Rivendell.
Gandalf warning Frodo about Boromir near Moria.
Lothlórien panorama added.
Sam's poem about Gandalf's fireworks.
The Fellowship have flashbacks from when they were given their gifts from Galadriel.
Celeborn and Aragorn have a conversation in a flashback.
Aragorn and Boromir seeing Gollum on a log.
Fan Club credits.
An Easter Egg is present on the first DVD of some editions of the extended edition. It does not appear in the UK version because the film was only rated a PG, however this spoof was rated a 12. It can be accessed by going to the final page of the chapter menu and then scrolling down until a golden ring appears. The Easter Egg is a parody of the Council of Elrond scene and stars Jack Black and Sarah Michelle Gellar. Additionally, on the second disk of the extended edition, there is another Easter egg. It can be accessed by going to the final page of the chapter menu and scrolling down under the chapter numbers (like 30-33). Go to the bottom and a silhouette of two towers will appear. It is a special trailer for "The Two Towers" that was added on during the end of the theatrical run of the movie.
16. Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)
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Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith is a 2005 space opera film written and directed by George Lucas. It is the sixth and final film released in the Star Wars saga and the third in terms of the series' internal chronology.The film is set three years after the onset of the Clone Wars; the noble Jedi Knights are spread out across the galaxy leading a massive clone army in the war against the Separatists. After Chancellor Palpatine is kidnapped, Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi and his former padawan, Anakin Skywalker, are dispatched to eliminate the evil General Grievous. Meanwhile, Anakin's friendship with the Chancellor arouses suspicion in the Jedi Order, and dangerous to the Jedi Knight himself. When the sinister Sith Lord, Darth Sidious, unveils a plot to take over the galaxy, the fate of Anakin, the Jedi order, and the entire galaxy is at stake.
The film was released in theatres on May 19, 2005, and received generally positive reviews from critics, especially in contrast to the previous two prequels. It broke several box office records during its opening week, and went on to earn over US$850 million worldwide, making it the second highest grossing film in the Star Wars franchise. It was the highest grossing film of 2005 in the U.S., the second highest grossing film of 2005 worldwide behind Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
Story and Plot Point
The opening crawl reveals that the galaxy is in the midst of the Clone Wars. Chancellor Palpatine has been kidnapped by the Separatists' second-in-command, General Grievous. Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker and Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi lead a mission to rescue him. After killing Sith Lord Count Dooku and freeing the Chancellor, the Jedi attempt to escape, but are captured by General Grievous. Anakin and Obi-Wan manage to break free, but Grievous escapes and traps the Jedi and the Chancellor inside the severely damaged cruiser. Anakin is forced to crash-land the ship on one of Coruscant's landing tracks.
Upon his return, Anakin is reunited with his wife, Padmé Amidala, who tells him that she is pregnant. Despite Padmé's worries over their secret marriage, Anakin is overjoyed at this news, and the couple makes plans to raise their child. However, Anakin is troubled by visions of Padmé dying in childbirth, visions similar to those he had of his mother just before she died. Later, Obi-Wan privately tells Anakin that the Council wants him to spy on the Chancellor because they believe him to be corrupt, an order Anakin resents since the Chancellor has become a mentor to him. As the Chancellor's bodyguard, Anakin develops a close friendship with Palpatine, who subtly manipulates Anakin in their discussions, making him distrust the Jedi. Palpatine claims to know of an ability to prevent death.
Obi-Wan is sent to Utapau, where he engages and kills General Grievous. Meanwhile, back on Coruscant, Palpatine reveals himself to Anakin as the Sith Lord Darth Sidious, who has been controlling the Republic and the Separatist movement. Anakin leaves to expose him to the Jedi Council. Jedi Master Mace Windu arrives at the Chancellor's office shortly thereafter and eventually subdues Sidious in a lightsaber duel. Just as Anakin arrives, Windu is about to kill Sidious. Anakin quickly disarms Windu, believing Sidious holds the only way to save his wife. Windu is consumed by Sidious' torrents of Force lightning, throwing him out a window to his death. Anakin then submits to the dark side of the Force and becomes Sidious' Sith apprentice: Darth Vader. He then orders Vader to kill all Jedi within the Jedi Temple, then to go to the Mustafar system and eliminate the Separatist leaders.
Darth Sidious orders clone troopers across the galaxy to turn against their Jedi Generals by enacting a pre-programmed directive, Order 66. Numerous Jedi across the galaxy are seen being exterminated, although both Yoda and Obi-Wan survive. Darth Vader slaughters all the children in the Jedi Temple. Afterwards, he goes to Padmé and tells her the Jedi have attempted to take over the Republic and leaves for Mustafar, where he slaughters the Separatist leaders. Senator Bail Organa rescues Obi-Wan and Yoda, and brings them to the Jedi Temple before heading to the Senate building. Sidious (as Palpatine) informs the Senate of a Jedi plot to overthrow the Republic. As a result, he announces that the Republic will be reorganized into the Galactic Empire. In the Jedi Temple, Obi-Wan and Yoda stand in shock over the bodies of the younglings and reconfigure a signal to warn all Jedi to keep away. Obi-Wan looks into the security recordings and, to his horror, sees a hologram of Vader carrying out the orders of Darth Sidious and kneeling to him. Though he initially refuses, Obi-Wan eventually agrees to find and kill Anakin' '. Obi-Wan then meets with Padmé, who refuses to believe his claims about Anakin's fall to the dark side. When she departs for Mustafar, Obi-Wan secretly stows away onboard.
When the couple is reunited, Padmé pleads with Vader to leave public life with her, but he refuses, believing that he can overthrow Sidious so that he and Padmé can rule the galaxy together. Vader sees Obi-Wan emerge from Padmé's ship, and suspects her of betraying him. Enraged, he uses the Force to choke Padmé into unconsciousness. Obi-Wan and Vader break into a vicious lightsaber duel. The duel brings them out of the facility to unprotected areas of the volcano planet. Obi-Wan eventually gains the advantage of higher ground, and when Vader attempts to attack again, Obi-Wan slices off both of his legs and his left arm in two swift cuts. Vader tumbles down the embankment and rolls to a stop at the edge of the lava. He catches on fire, sustaining near-fatal fourth-degree burns and severe lung damage. Obi-Wan leaves Mustafar with Padmé and Vader's lightsaber, leaving Vader to die. Darth Sidious arrives on Mustafar moments later and rescues Vader from the brink of death.
Padmé is given medical assistance, and although she is physically intact, she has lost her will to live. She delivers twins, a boy and a girl and names them Luke and Leia. With her final breaths, she insists to Obi-Wan that there is still good in Anakin (Vader); she then dies. On Coruscant, Vader's missing limbs and damaged body parts are replaced by cybernetic prostheses and implants. Vader is put into a full suit of black armor and is sealed in a respirator mask, which will allow him to survive his injuries. When Vader asks Sidious about Padmé's condition, he tells Vader that, in his anger, Vader himself killed Padmé. Vader unleashes a furious scream of mournful rage and destroys droids and equipment throughout the room with the Force while Sidious looks on with an evil grin. Aboard the Tantive IV, Obi-Wan, Yoda, and Bail Organa agree to keep the children hidden and separated. Obi-Wan and Yoda will watch and wait until the time is ready for the Skywalker children to do their part in the battle against the Sith. Leia is taken to Alderaan to live with the Queen and Bail Organa, and Luke is transferred to Tatooine to live with Owen and Beru. The film concludes with Owen and Beru holding Luke while staring out over the desert at Tatooine's twin suns.
Production
In 1973, Lucas claimed to have written the Star Wars saga's fundamental story in the form of a basic plot outline. He would later profess that at the time of the saga's conception, he had not fully realized the details — only major plot points throughout the series. He transformed his notes concerning Episode III into a screenplay in 2003 and 2004, in addition to allowing playwright Tom Stoppard to ghost-rewrite it and polish its dialogue. During production, a large number of fans speculated online about the film's subtitle; rumored titles included Rise of the Empire, The Creeping Fear (which was also named as the film's title on the official website on April Fool's 2004), and Birth of the Empire. Eventually, Revenge of the Sith also became a "guessed title" that George Lucas would later announce to be true.
After the earliest draft of the screenplay was submitted, the art department began designing the various ways that each element could appear on screen. For the Kashyyyk environment, the art department turned to The Star Wars Holiday Special for inspiration. Over a period of months, Lucas would approve hundreds of designs that would eventually appear in the film. He would later rewrite entire scenes and action sequences to correspond to certain designs he had chosen. The designs were then shipped to "pre-visualization" to create moving CGI versions known as "animatics". Ben Burtt would edit these scenes with Lucas in order to previsualize what the film would look like before the scenes were even filmed. The pre-visualization footage featured a basic raw CGI environment with equally unprocessed CGI characters performing a scene (typically an action sequence). Steven Spielberg was also allowed to assist both the art and pre-visualization department's designs for several action sequences in Revenge of the Sith. Later, the pre-visualization and art department designs were sent to the production department to begin "bringing the film out of the concept phase" by building the various sets, props and costumes. To determine the required sets, Lucas analyzed each scene with the staff to see which moments the actors would come in most contact with the set, warranting the set to be constructed.
During this time, actors Hayden Christensen and Ewan McGregor rehearsed extensively with stunt coordinator Nick Gillard to memorize and perform their climactic lightsaber duel together. In addition to performing the scenes as actors, they rehearsed each fight scene together for months on end. Like the previous two prequel films, all lightsaber battles featuring Obi-Wan and Anakin were performed by the actors themselves without the use of stunt doubles. As a result of months of practice, the speed at which Anakin and Obi-Wan engage in their duel is the speed at which it was filmed, and was not digitally accelerated. However, there are instances where single frames were removed to increase the velocity of particular strikes. An example of this occurs as Obi-Wan strikes down on Anakin after applying an armlock in the first half of the duel.
Although the first scene filmed was the final scene to appear in the film (shot during the filming of Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones in 2000), principal photography on the film occurred from June 30 to September 17, 2003. The film was shot entirely on sound stages at Fox Studios Australia in Sydney, although practical environments were shot as background footage later to be composited into the film. These included the limestone mountains depicting Kashyyyk, which were filmed in Phuket, Thailand (they were later damaged by the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami). The production company was also fortunate enough to be shooting at the same time that Mount Etna erupted in Italy. Camera crews were sent to the location to shoot several angles of the volcano that were later spliced into the background of the animatics and the final film version of the Mustafar planet.
Revenge of the Sith eventually became the first Star Wars film in which Anakin Skywalker and the suited Darth Vader were played by the same actor in the same film. As Christensen recounted, it was originally intended to simply have a "tall guy" in the Darth Vader costume. But after "begging and pleading" with Lucas, the Vader costume used in the film was created specifically to fit Christensen. The new costume featured shoe lifts and a muscle suit. It also required Christensen (who is 6 ft 1 in or 1.85 metres tall) to look through the mouthpiece of the helmet.
While shooting key scenes, Lucas would often use an "A camera" and "B camera," or the "V technique," a process that involves shooting with two or more cameras at the same time in order to gain several angles of the same performance. Using the HD technology developed for the film, the filmmakers were able to send footage to the editors the same day it was shot, a process that would require a full 24 hours had it been shot on film. Footage featuring the planet Mustafar was given to editor Roger Barton, who was on location in Sydney, Australia cutting the climactic duel. All other footage was forwarded to lead editor Ben Burtt at Skywalker Ranch in California.
The post-production department began work during filming and continued until weeks before the film was released in 2005. Special effects were created using almost all formats, including model work, CGI and practical effects. The same department later composited all such work into the filmed scenes—both processes taking nearly two years to complete. Sith holds the world record for most special effects used in a single film: 2,151 shots.
As the DVD featurette Within a Minute illustrates, the film required 910 artists and 70,441 man-hours to create 49 seconds of footage for the Mustafar duel alone. The film was produced with a budget of US$113 million, making it the least expensive of the three prequel films. Members of Hyperspace, the Official Star Wars Fan Club, received a special look into the production. Benefits included not only special articles, but they also received access to a webcam that transmitted a new image every 20 seconds during the time it was operating in Fox Studios Australia. Many times the stars, and Lucas himself, were spotted on the webcam.
Releases
Revenge of the Sith premiered at the Cannes Film Festival (out of competition) on May 15, 2005. Its theatrical release in most other countries took place on May 19 — the same day and month as the release of 1999's Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1977's Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope and 1983's Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi were also released on the same day and month, six years apart). The global outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas claimed one week before the premiere that it may have cost the US economy approximately US$627 million in lost productivity because of employees who took a day off or reported in sick. Grauman's Chinese Theatre, a traditional venue for the Star Wars films, did not show it. However, a line of people stood there for more than a month hoping to convince someone to change this. Most of them took advantage of an offer to see the film at a nearby cinema, ArcLight Cinemas (formerly the "Cinerama Dome").
A copy of the movie leaked into peer-to-peer file sharing networks just hours after opening in theaters. The movie was a time-stamped workprint, suggesting it may have come from within the industry rather than from someone who videotaped an advance screening. Eight people were later charged with copyright infringement and distributing material illegally. Documents filed by the Los Angeles District Attorney allege that a copy of the film was taken from an unnamed Californian post-production office by an employee, who later pleaded guilty to his charges. The illegal copy was passed among seven people until reaching an eighth party, who also pleaded guilty to uploading to an un-named P2P network.
Shortly after the above-mentioned print was leaked, it was released in Shanghai as a bootleg DVD with Chinese subtitles. The unknown producer of this DVD, for unexplained reasons, also elected to include English subtitles, which were in fact translated back into English from the Chinese translation, rather than using the original English script. This translation was particularly inept, leading to unintentional humor; the title of the movie, for example, was given as "Star War - The third gathers - Backstroke of the West". One error in translation that recurs several times in the film is that the phrase "it seems" was rendered as "good elephant". The mis-translation also caused the word "fuck" to appear three times in the subtitles, and rendered Darth Vader's cry of "Noooooooo" as "Do not want".
Rating
Revenge of the Sith is the first and only Star Wars film to receive a PG-13 (12A in the UK) rating from the MPAA, officially for "sci-fi violence and some disturbing images," namely for the scene in which Darth Vader is set aflame. Some critics, including Roger Ebert and Richard Roeper, later responded that the film could be handled by children as long as they had parental guidance, hence a "PG rating." At the same time, Lucas had stated months before the MPAA's decision that he felt the film should receive a PG-13 rating, because of Anakin's final moments and the content of the film being the darkest and most emotional of all six films. All previously released films in the series were rated PG. The PG-13 rating had not existed when the films in the original trilogy were released; however, the films in the original trilogy were later re-submitted to the MPAA due to changes in the re-released versions and once again received PG ratings. When Revenge of the Sith was released in Canada, it was given a PG rating in most provinces, excluding Quebec, where it was rated G. In Great Britain it received a "12A" rating (equivalent to the American "PG-13" rating).
DVD release
Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith was released on DVD on November 1, 2005 in the United States and Canada, on October 31, 2005 in the United Kingdom and on November 3, 2005 in Australia. It was also released in most major territories on or near the same day. The DVD was a two-disc set, with picture and sound mastered from the original digital source material. Unlike any other films directed by Lucas, Revenge of the Sith was released on DVD without any noticeable alterations from the film's original theatrical cut. The only alteration made was the change of a scene transition near the end, which involved the change from a wipe to a straight cut.
The DVD included a number of documentaries including a new full-length documentary as well as two featurettes, one which explores the prophecy of Anakin Skywalker as the Chosen One, the other looking at the movie's stunts and a 15 part collection of web-documentaries from the Official Website. Like the other DVD releases, included is an audio commentary track featuring Lucas, producer Rick McCallum, animation director Rob Coleman, and ILM visual effects supervisors John Knoll and Roger Guyett. Six deleted scenes were included with introductions from Lucas and McCallum. An Xbox game demo for Star Wars: Battlefront II along with a trailer for the Star Wars: Empire at War PC game was featured on the second disc.
This release is notable because, due to marketing issues, it was the first Star Wars film never to be released on VHS in the United States. However, the film was released on VHS in Australia, the United Kingdom and other countries in the world.
Reaction
Critical reaction towards the film was largely enthusiastic, especially in comparison to the two previous prequels. Film review site Rotten Tomatoes calculated a rating of 80 percent based on 247 reviews, compared to the 63 percent and 66 percent received by Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones respectively. Some critics noted that they view it to be the best of the prequels, while other reviewers judged it to be the best Star Wars film since Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back. A. O. Scott of The New York Times concluded that it was "the best of the four episodes Mr. Lucas has directed," and equal to The Empire Strikes Back as "the richest and most challenging movie in the cycle." In a 2007 summary of the 100 Best Science-Fiction Films on Rotten Tomatoes, Revenge of the Sith was placed 51 out of 100, making it the only prequel film in the Star Wars series to earn a ranking.
Much of the criticism for the film was directed towards the dialogue, particularly the film's romantic scenes. Critics and fans alike were quick to jump on such lines of Anakin or Padmé including "Hold me, Ani. Hold me, like you did by the lake on Naboo....where there was nothing but our love..." Critics have claimed this demonstrated Lucas' weakness as a writer of dialogue, a subject with which Lucas openly agreed when receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Film Institute.
Other criticisms included previously raised issues with the prequels: "wooden" acting, overuse of flashy and colorful computer-generated special effects, and attempts to be both childish and mature at the same time. It is often said the film contains a number of plot holes, although this claim is widely disputed and debated by fans. Though many critics and fans saw it as one of the best of the series, or at least, the strongest of the three prequels, others saw it as more or less on par with The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones. Some neoconservatives criticized the film, claiming it has a liberal bias and is a "weak" commentary on the U.S. Bush Administration and the U.S./Iraqi war. Some websites went so far as to propose a boycott of the film. Lucas defended the film, stating that the film's storyline was written during the Vietnam War, and was influenced by that conflict rather than the war in Iraq. Lucas did note, however, that "The parallels between Vietnam and what we're doing in Iraq now are unbelievable." A letter posted at film critic Roger Ebert's website claims that the film was the most conservative film of 2005.
Ewan McGregor and Ian McDiarmid's performances as Obi-Wan and Palpatine, respectively, were generally well-received by critics. Todd McCarthy of Variety commented, "Entertaining from start to finish and even enthralling at times, 'Sith' has some acting worth writing home about, specifically McDiarmid's dominant turn as the mastermind of the evil empire." A reviewer for The Village Voice wrote that "Ian McDiarmid's unctuous Emperor; turns appropriately vampiric as he attempts to draw Anakin into the Sith fold with promises of eternal life."
Box office performance
Revenge of the Sith was released in 115 countries. Worldwide gross for the film eventually reached nearly $850 million — ranking the film second worldwide in 2005, behind Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The film earned an estimated $16.5 million from 2,900 midnight screenings in North America upon its release. In total, it earned a record $50 million on its opening day. It was surpassed the following year by Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest which earned $55.5 million on its opening day.
With only the May 19 earnings, the film broke four box office records: midnight screenings gross (previously held by The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, $8 million), opening day gross (Spider-Man 2, with $40.4 million), single day gross (Shrek 2 with $44.8 million) and Thursday gross (The Matrix Reloaded with $37.5 million). Its single day gross record and opening day gross record were later surpassed by Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest on July 7, 2006, when that movie grossed $55.5 million on its opening day. It still retains its records for midnight screening gross and Thursday gross, however.
According to box office analysis sites, Revenge of the Sith set American records for highest gross in a given number of days for each of its first 12 days of release except for the seventh and eighth, where the record is narrowly held by Spider-Man 2. On its fifth day it became the highest grossing movie of 2005, surpassing Hitch ($177.6 million).
Revenge of the Sith earned $158.5 million in its first four-day period, surpassing the previous four-day record held by The Matrix Reloaded ($134.3 million), and joining Spider-Man, The Matrix Reloaded and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire as the only movies to make $100 million in three days.
Revenge of the Sith earned $200 million in its first eight days (record tied with Spider-Man 2). By its 17th day, it had passed $300 million (surpassing the record of 18 days of Shrek 2). The film earned $25,088,336 in its third weekend (June 3–5). It was eventually the third fastest film (after Shrek 2 and Spider-Man) to reach $350 million.
The film ended its run in American theaters on October 20, 2005. Its total of $380,270,577 ranks it 8th all-time in the United States, the highest-grossing movie of 2005 in the U.S., outgrossing second-place The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by nearly $90 million. It is currently the 16th highest-grossing film in history.
Awards and nominations
Despite being the best reviewed and most well-received film in the prequel trilogy, Revenge of the Sith received the smallest number of award nominations in comparison to the previous films (35 categories in total, compared to The Phantom Menace's 55 and Attack of the Clones' 38 category nominations).
In retrospect, the film did however receive the smallest number of Golden Raspberry Awards nominations, only one for Christensen as Worst Supporting Actor, which he "won" (both The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones received 7 nominations each, with 1 and 2 "wins", respectively). This nomination was controversial, as Christensen's character, Anakin Skywalker, is the main focus of the film, and not a supporting actor (the nominating ballots listed McGregor as the lead actor). It is the only Star Wars prequel to not receive a Razzie nomination for "Worst Picture". Christensen did, however, win the "Best Villain" award at the MTV Movie Awards.
Revenge of the Sith is the only Star Wars film not to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, however the film was nominated for Best Makeup to Dave Elsey and Nikki Gooley. The film also won "Best Picture" awards at the People's Choice Awards, Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films, Empire Awards and the Teen Choice Awards.
Cast
Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi. Obi-Wan is a General for the Galactic Republic and is a Jedi Master who sits on the Jedi Council. He often travels and performs missions with his best friend and former Padawan, Anakin Skywalker.
Natalie Portman as Senator Padmé Amidala. Padmé is Anakin's wife-in-secret; she has recently become pregnant. As Senator to Naboo she has taken a cautious look at the growing amount of power that is being given to the Supreme Chancellor.
Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker. Anakin has been recently promoted as the youngest ever Jedi Knight to join the council, but remains apprentice to Obi-Wan, having been denied the title of 'Master'. However, upon learning of his wife's pregnancy, he begins to have recurring visions of her dying in childbirth. Because similar visions accurately foretold the death of his mother, he swears to himself and his wife to do whatever possible to stop this.
Ian McDiarmid as Chancellor Palpatine. As the Chancellor of the Galactic Republic, Palpatine enacted the start of the Clone Wars against the Separatists. As a result, the Senate has voted him emergency powers and has recently been voting more and more to him. The Jedi Council oppose this, and begin to distrust him. The feeling is mutual for Palpatine, who only confides in Anakin Skywalker, in addition to being an unofficial mentor.
Frank Oz as the voice of Yoda. The wise old leader of the Jedi Council, Yoda is nearly 900 years old. He is a friend and mentor to many Jedi. He plays a major role in the Battle of Kashyyyk.
Samuel L. Jackson as Mace Windu. Windu is a Jedi Master who sits on the Jedi Council and is also a Jedi General in the Clone Wars.
Matthew Wood as the voice of General Grievous. Grievous is the evil General of the Separatists' droid army. The film's opening crawl reveals that he is the individual responsible for kidnapping Palpatine. He answers only to Count Dooku (who he knows as "Darth Tyranus") and his master, Darth Sidious.
Silas Carson as Nute Gunray. Gunray is the Viceroy of the Trade Federation, who is at odds with Grievous and dares to question his leadership.
Jimmy Smits as Senator Bail Organa. Organa is a Senator in the Galactic Republic and friend to the Jedi, who grows concerned at the growing power of the Chancellor.
Anthony Daniels as C-3PO. C-3PO is Padmé Amidala's personal droid.
Kenny Baker as R2-D2. R2-D2 is Anakin Skywalker's astro-droid and C-3PO's counterpart.
Temuera Morrison as Commander Cody and other clone troopers. Cody and the clone troopers are part of the army for the Republic. As seen in Attack of the Clones, they are the clones of the bounty hunter Jango Fett.
Christopher Lee as Count Dooku. Dooku is also known as Darth Tyranus. He is a Sith apprentice to Darth Sidious, Leader of the Separtists, and Grievous' superior, and together they kidnap Palpatine.
Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca. Chewbacca is a Wookiee who is friends with Yoda, and fights alongside him in the Battle of Kashyyyk.
James Earl Jones as the uncredited voice of the suited Darth Vader.
In 2004 it was reported that Gary Oldman was approached to provide the voice of General Grievous, and he accepted. However, complications arose during contract negotiations after Oldman learned the film was to be made outside of the Screen Actor's Guild, of which he is a member. He backed out of the role rather than violate the union's rules. John Rhys Davies was also considered the role. Matthew Wood, who ultimately voiced Grievous, disputed this story at Celebration III, held in Indianapolis. According to him, Oldman is a friend of Rick McCallum's, and recorded an audition as a favor to him. The audition was never chosen. Wood, who was also the supervising sound editor, was in charge of the auditions and submitted his audition anonymously in the midst of 30 others, under the initials "A.S." for Alan Smithee. Days later he received a phone call asking for the full name to the initials "A.S.". Wood insists to this day that his audition never would have been heard had he submitted it with his own name. Kenny Baker, original actor for R2-D2, Anakin's mechanic droid who travels with him on his missions, did not appear in this movie, even though he is mentioned in the credits as his character.
Cameo appearances
Lucas makes an appearance at the Coruscant Opera House as a blue faced being named Baron Papanoida who can be seen outside Palpatine's box. It marks Lucas' only appearance in any of the Star Wars films. His three children also appear in cameos: his son, Jett, as a young Jedi-in-training called Zett Jukassa who is killed defending the Jedi Temple against clone troopers; his daughter, Amanda, as a character called Terr Taneel, seen in the security hologram; and daughter Katie as a blue-skinned alien named Chi Eekway, visible when Palpatine arrives at the Senate after being saved by the Jedi, and talking to Baron Papanoida at the Opera House. When Anakin, Obi-Wan, and Palpatine arrive via shuttle to the Senate docks after crash landing on Coruscant, the Millennium Falcon can be seen landing on one of the lower platforms as the shuttle approaches. And while not a direct cameo, it was confirmed in the Revenge of the Sith online text commentary that a growl of Tarfull's in the scene of Yoda's departure from Kashyyyk is actually Itchy's growl from The Star Wars Holiday Special.
Much of the crew also make cameos in the film. Nick Gillard, the stunt coordinator, plays a Jedi named Cin Drallig (his name spelled backward, without the k). Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett in the original trilogy), appeared in a speaking role as Captain Colton, the pilot of the Rebel Blockade Runner Tantive IV. As the film wraps up towards the end, we get our first glimpse of Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia as babies, both played by Aidan Barton, the film editor's son.
Deleted roles
Scenes of a group of Senators (including Padmé) planning on organizing an Alliance to prevent the Chancellor from receiving any more executive powers were cut; they featured a young Mon Mothma. They were cut to achieve more focus on the story of Anakin. Lucas wrote early drafts of the script in which a 10-year-old Han Solo appeared, but the role was never cast or shot. The scene where Yoda arrives on Dagobah to begin his self-imposed exile was also cut, but is featured in a deleted scene in the DVD release, though McCallum has stated that he hopes Lucas may add it to the theatrical release when and if he releases a six episode DVD box set.
Many Order 66 scenes were cut. The deaths of Barriss Offee and Luminara Unduli were either cut from the film or never filmed in the first place. The death scene of Shaak Ti aboard the Invisible Hand (which can be viewed in the DVD deleted scenes section) is considered non-canon, as she was later confirmed to be alive.
Bai Ling filmed minor scenes for the film playing a senator, but her role was cut during editing. She claimed this was because she posed for the June 2005 issue of Playboy magazine, whose appearance on newsstands coincided with the movie's May release. Lucas denied this, stating that the cut had been made more than a year earlier, and that he had cut his own daughter's scenes as well.
Lucas had previously promised to explain the mystery behind the erasure of the planet Kamino from the Jedi Archives setup in Attack of the Clones. This may be viewed as a plot hole; however, Lucas instead chose to include it in the novel Labyrinth of Evil, which took place immediately before Revenge of the Sith. Lucas did this in order to focus more on Anakin's story in the film.
Cinematic and literary allusions
Throughout Revenge of the Sith Lucas refers to a wide range of films and other sources drawing on political, military and mythological motifs to enhance the impact of his story. Perhaps the most media coverage was given to a particular exchange between Anakin and Obi-Wan, which led to the aforementioned controversy: "If you're not with me, you're my enemy," Anakin declares, to which Obi-Wan responds, "Only a Sith deals in absolutes." In the novelization, Mace Windu says that the new laws decrease liberty in the name of security, but he doesn't feel safer. Despite Lucas' insistence to the contrary, The Seattle Times concluded, "Without naming Bush or the Patriot Act, it's all unmistakable no matter what your own politics may be."
Palpatine's appearance and actions are reminiscent of Doctor Mabuse, particularly as portrayed by German actor Rudolf Klein-Rogge in Fritz Lang's films. Anakin also bears a resemblance to the mad scientist Rotwang from the classic film Metropolis. Both Anakin and Rotwang wear a menacing leather glove on one hand and are obsessed with saving — or resurrecting — a lost loved one. Also, Rotwang builds the android whose appearance heavily influenced the image of Lucas' C-3PO, who was built by Anakin prior to The Phantom Menace.
Palpatine has been compared to Iago, the villain of Shakespeare's Othello by many, including McDiarmid himself. In Othello, Iago manipulates the title character into believing that his wife Desdemona has committed adultery with his confidante and lieutenant. In Revenge of the Sith, Vader comes to believe that Padmé has betrayed him to his former master, Obi-Wan. In both cases, blind rage drives the husband to strangle his wife.
Darth Vader and his legion of Clone troopers march on the Jedi Temple in a direct reference to the well-known "Odessa Steps" sequence from The Battleship Potemkin.
Following the march on the Jedi Temple sequence (itself a direct tribute to Sergei Eisenstein's "Odessa Steps" montage in The Battleship Potemkin; save that the white-armored troopers are marching up the steps), Lucas' editing schemes during Order 66, the slaughter of the Separatists and the declaration of the Galactic Empire are reminiscent of the montage of massacres during the christening scene of The Godfather, a film directed by mentor Francis Ford Coppola.
Certain plot points, including that of Palpatine building his own "monster", and especially the final scenes are comparable to the story of Frankenstein. Notably, Vader is assembled by various parts, and then raised on the platform he was assembled on. He struggles and breaks free from the platform, stumbling forward.
McDiarmid, Lucas, and others have also called Anakin's journey to the dark side Faustian in the sense of making a "pact with the devil" for short-term gain. Midway in the film, Lucas intercuts between Anakin and Padmé by themselves, thinking about one another in the Jedi Temple and their apartment, respectively during sunset, in a sequence without dialog and complemented by a moody, synthesized soundtrack. Lucas' coverage of the exterior cityscapes, skylines and interior isolation in the so-called "Ruminations" sequence is similar to the cinematography and mise-en-scene of Rosemary's Baby, a film in which a husband makes a literal pact with the devil.
References to the original trilogy
The prequel trilogy films often make references to the original trilogy in order to help connect the films together. Lucas has often referred to the films as a long poem that rhymes. Such examples include the now famous line of "I have a bad feeling about this" that is used in each film, as well as battles (namely lightsaber duels) almost always taking place over a pit of some kind.
Of the prequel trilogy films, Revenge of the Sith makes the most references to the original trilogy. For example, when Obi-Wan Kenobi kills General Grievous with a blaster, he mutters to himself "So uncivilized." This is a reference to the beginning of A New Hope, when Obi-Wan describes a lightsaber as being "Not as clumsy or as random as a blaster, but an elegant weapon for a more civilized age." In addition, during the opening battle of Revenge of the Sith, Anakin mutters to himself that "this is where the fun begins." The same line was spoken by Han Solo under similar circumstances in A New Hope. In Obi-Wan's final confrontation with General Grievous he jumps down from an overhead catwalk and says "Hello there." which is a direct quote of Obi-Wan's first line in A New Hope and a slight nod to Sir Alec Guiness, who portrayed Obi-Wan in the original trilogy.
The film's title itself is a reference to Revenge of the Jedi, the original title of Return of the Jedi; Lucas changed the title scant weeks before the premiere of ROTJ, declaring that Jedi do not seek revenge.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack to the film was released by Sony Classical on May 3, 2005, more than two weeks before the release of the film. The music was composed and conducted by John Williams, and performed by the London Symphony Orchestra and London Voices. John Williams was also composer and conductor of the score for the other five films in the Star Wars saga. A music video titled A Hero Falls was created for the film's theme, Battle of the Heroes, featuring footage from the film and was also available on the DVD.
The soundtrack also came with a collectors' DVD, Star Wars: A Musical Journey, at no additional cost. The DVD, hosted by McDiarmid, features 16 music videos set to remastered selections of music from all six film scores, set chronologically through the saga. This album was chosen as one of Amazon.com's Top 100 Editor's Picks of 2005 (#83).
Novelization
The novelization of the film was written by Matthew Stover. It includes much more dialogue than the film, including a conversation between Count Dooku and Darth Sidious, where the reader learns Palpatine lied to Dooku about what the Empire would truly be. The novel includes many little details. For example, during the Battle of Coruscant, Anakin's callsign is Red 5, a reference to Luke's callsign in the climactic battle of A New Hope, and one of the Republic capital ships is commanded by Lieutenant Commander Lorth Needa, who becomes Captain Needa in The Empire Strikes Back. There are also references to the Star Wars: Republic comic book series, such as the Battle of Jabiim (Volume 3). In addition to this, the siege of the Jedi Temple is slightly more violent than the cinematic version.Some unseen or unheard-of elements to the Revenge of the Sith story were fleshed out in the course of the novel. Such examples include more discussions between Anakin and Palpatine, confirming Palpatine's former master as Darth Plagueis. Not only is Saesee Tiin revealed to be a telepath, but his horn, lost in the Clone Wars, is revealed to have grown back. These are a few examples of many descriptions of characters' feelings and inner narrative.
17. Independence Day (1996)
(Collections: $811,200,000)
Independence Day (also known as its promotional abbreviation ID4) is an Academy Award winning science fiction film directed by Roland Emmerich. The film's plot is about an attempted alien invasion of Earth.The film's success was partially credited to an extensive marketing campaign which began in the United States with a dramatic commercial during the Super Bowl XXX. It is the first movie to advertise during Super Bowls. Fox spent $1.3 million to promote the film during the Super Bowl.
The movie was scheduled for release on July 3, 1996, but due to the high level of anticipation for the film, many theaters began showing it on the evening of July 2, 1996, the same day the action in the film begins. The movie's total worldwide gross was $816,969,268 - the 18th highest worldwide gross for a movie all-time, and rated the 49th best sci-fi movie of all time.
Story and Plot Point
When Earth comes under attack from an advanced extraterrestrial species, the survivors must band together to repel the invaders.
On July 2, an alien mothership enters orbit around Earth, deploying several dozen smaller spacecraft to hover over many of the world's major cities. Satellite transmissions from the craft are discovered, by scientist David Levinson (Goldblum), to be a timer which he believes is a countdown to a coordinated attack by the aliens. Having made his way to the White House with his father, he warns President Thomas J. Whitmore (Pullman) of the impending attack. After three US Air Force helicopters are shot down by an alien spacecraft while attempting to establish communications, the president orders the evacuation of affected cities. Before the countdown reaches zero, he flees the White House aboard Air Force One with his staff and Levinson. At zero point, the hovering alien spacecraft open fire upon their targets with advanced directed-energy weapons, incinerating entire cities and killing millions.
The United States counterattack is coordinated from El Toro and sees the alien spacecraft assaulted by Marine Corps fighter aircraft. The attacks are useless, as both the larger craft and individual fighters launched from within are protected by seemingly-impenetrable force fields. After leading his unit of fighter pilots in an attack against the aliens, Captain Steven Hiller (Smith) is involved in a dogfight with an alien fighter which sees both crash in the desert. Having parachuted to safety, Hiller subdues and captures the injured alien. As the El Toro airbase has since been destroyed, Hiller takes the alien in the direction of the nearby Area 51 base, where the president and his remaining staff have also landed. There, they discover a top secret facility housing a captured alien fighter and three alien bodies recovered from Roswell in 1947.
When lead scientist Dr. Brackish Okun (Spiner) examines the new alien specimen, it attempts escape and takes control of his mind. When questioned by President Whitmore, through a telepathic connection it reveals that its species travels from planet to planet, destroying all life and harvesting the planet's natural resources, before moving on to the next conquest. The alien attempts a psychic attack against Whitmore and is killed by military personnel. Whitmore orders a nuclear attack on one of the larger alien spacecraft which is hovering over a by-now-evacuated Houston, but as the craft is still protected by its force shield, the attack fails.
Levinson devises a plan to gain access to the interior of the alien mothership in space in order to introduce a computer virus and plant a nuclear device on board. This, it is hoped, will cause the shields of the Earth-based alien craft to fail long enough for the human resistance to destroy them. Hiller volunteers to fly the captured alien fighter and Levinson accompanies him to upload the virus. With satellite communications knocked out, the Americans use morse code to coordinate an attack with the remaining air forces around the world, timed to occur when the invaders' shields are set to fail.
With the successful implantation of the virus, President Whitmore leads the US fighter jets against an alien spacecraft on approach to Area 51. The attack is initially unsuccessful and the fighters soon exhaust their supply of missiles. The underside of the alien craft opens up as its primary weapon of mass destruction is prepared to fire on the base. Russell Casse (Quaid) finds that he possesses the one remaining missile. The firing mechanism damaged, he pilots his jet into the opening in a kamikaze attack. The ensuing explosion causes a chain reaction which destroys the alien spacecraft. Human resistance forces around the world use the same weak point to destroy the remainder of the alien ships, while the nuclear device planted by Hiller and Levinson destroys the alien mothership. Hiller and Levinson escape unharmed, crash-landing their captured alien fighter in the desert close to Area 51.
Cast and characters
Will Smith as Captain Steven Hiller; US Marine Corps F/A-18C pilot at the forefront of the human resistance counter-offensive, Hiller's ambition before the alien attack is to join NASA's astronaut training programme.
Bill Pullman as President Thomas J. Whitmore; former Persian Gulf War fighter pilot and current President of the United States.
Jeff Goldblum as David Levinson; an MIT-educated scientist working as a senior manager for a cable television company who discovers the aliens' invasion plot and formulates a plan to defeat them.
Judd Hirsch as Julius Levinson; Jewish immigrant and widowed father of David Levinson.
Mary McDonnell as First Lady Marilyn Whitmore; the wife of President Whitmore who is wounded while fleeing the destruction of Los Angeles, later dying of her injuries.
Margaret Colin as Constance Spano; the White House Communications Director and David Levinson's ex-wife, she divorced David because of his lack of ambition. Reunited during the attack, they reconcile their differences and remarry.
Vivica A. Fox as Jasmine Dubrow; an exotic dancer and girlfriend of Steven Hiller, the two marry shortly before he leaves on his mission to disable the alien mothership.
Randy Quaid as Russel Casse; an alcoholic crop duster and veteran pilot of the Vietnam War who claims to have been a former alien abductee, Casse is ridiculed by his neighbours and held in contempt by his son until the alien attack, when he sacrifices his life to destroy the alien spacecraft hovering over Area 51.
Brent Spiner as Dr. Brackish Okun; the chief scientist at Area 51 in charge of investigating the aliens, later killed by an alien captured by Steven Hiller.
Harry Connick, Jr. as Captain Jimmy Wilder; a US Marine Corps pilot and best friend of Steven Hiller, killed while fleeing a failed attack on an alien spacecraft.
Robert Loggia as General William Grey; the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
James Rebhorn as Albert Nimziki; the Secretary of Defense and a former CIA officer, later fired by President Whitmore.
Production
The idea for the film came when Emmerich and Devlin were at a bar mitzvah for Emmerich's sister-in-law's child. A rabbi asked if Emmerich believed in aliens. He said he didn't, then the rabbi said "What if you wake up one day and see a massive spaceship the size of a city overhead?" Emmerich turned to Devlin and said "I think I have an idea for our next film".
The name in its promotion ID4 was chosen due to legal troubles over using the title Independence Day.
The US Army allowed the production crew to film in Nevada and they helped them with anything they required. The crew then told the army that they wanted to film inside Area 51. The army rejected this and cancelled them filming near the base.
Filming locations
The film was shot in United States, Kenya, Egypt, Iceland, Sweden and Australia.
United States
Los Angeles, California
Fontana, California
Blue Ridge, Georgia
New York City, New York
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Dallas, Texas
Grants Pass, Oregon
Utah
Michigan City, Indiana
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
New Mexico
Washington D.C.
West New York, New Jersey
White Sands, New Mexico
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
Reykjavík, Iceland
Stockholm, Stockholms län, Sweden
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Soundtrack
The score of the movie was composed by David Arnold, performed, conducted and arranged by Nicholas Dodd. Arnold won BMI Film & TV Award, and Grammy Award. The CD was released by BMG Classics, one (or two) day before the movie was released.
Novels
Author Stephen Molstad wrote a tie-in novel to help promote the film shortly before its release in the summer of 1996. The novel goes into further detail on the characters, situations, and overall concept that the film lacked.
Following the success of the film, a prequel novel entitled Independence Day: Silent Zone was written by Emmerich, Devlin, and Molstad in February 1998. The novel is set in the late 1960s and early 1970s, and details the early career of Dr. Brackish Okun. The novel goes into much detail on the aliens' technology and goes into even further detail of the crash at Roswell, New Mexico. Okun discovers that a second craft crashed in a part of Mexico nicknamed the "Silent Zone." Future Secretary of Defense Albert Nimziki has a small role in the novel as the director of the CIA.
Molstad wrote a third novel, Independence Day: War in the Desert in July 1999. The novel is both a midquel and sequel to the film. Set in Saudi Arabia on July 3, Captain Reg Cummins of the RAF and many of his fellow pilots lead a successful attack on one of the many "city destroyers." The novel mainly deals with Cummins and his pilots fighting a ground war with aliens that survived the destruction of their ship, which the characters infiltrated earlier in the novel to dispose of any survivors. The novel also goes into detail of the aliens' psychic abilities, their use of ground vehicles, their hand-held weapons, and also contains a subplot of a blooming relationship between Cummins and a Saudi noble's daughter. Cummins and Colonel Thompson are the only characters from the film to be featured in this novel (they being the two British pilots briefly seen receiving the Morse code message); however, President Whitmore is mentioned.
Right after the success of Independence Day, it was considered that these novels should be made into movies, but the idea was scrapped.
Reception
Ratings
Australia:
PG
Canada:
PG
Chile:
TE
Finland:
K-12
France:
U
Germany:
12
Iceland:
12
India:
U/A
Ireland:
PG
Italy:
T
Netherlands:
AL
Norway:
11
Peru:
14
Portugal:
M/12
Singapore:
PG
South Korea:
All
Spain:
7
Sweden:
11
United Kingdom:
12
United States:
PG-13
Box office performance
Domestic Total Gross: $306,169,268
Foreign: $510,800,000
Worldwide: $816,969,268
Independence Day took £6.8 million at the box office during its opening weekend in the UK.
One factor of The box office success of Independence Day is due to the heavy marketing campaign behind it.
Reviews
Independence Day is ranked as fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with a 63% positive rating, with 19 out of 30 critics giving it positive reviews. It has a 59% on Metacritic.
Many viewers felt that the main plot was simply a cursory re-telling of the H. G. Wells novella The War of the Worlds, after lacing it with contemporary social and environmental issues, and packaging it with "eye-popping" special effects. The primary plot twist between the two is that a man-made computer virus is substituted for a naturally-occurring disease as the driving factor in defeating the marauding aliens, promoting the concept that man has more direct control over the outcome of the desperate situation than in Wells' original story. However, the remainder of the plots are nearly identical: earthly military technology is largely ineffective in resisting the invading aliens; the aliens' primary purpose in invading Earth is to harvest resources from the planet (either humans as food in H. G. Wells' original story, or natural resources in this adaptation); and once the aliens are defeated, humanity becomes united through their struggle against a common foe. Even a minor plot point where a primary character is unexpectedly re-united with his wife (estranged in this adaptation, separated by the chaos created by the invading aliens in H. G. Wells' original) is captured by both stories.
The patriotic overtones of the film were widely criticized by foreign reviewers. Movie Review UK described the film as "A mish-mash of elements from a wide variety of alien invasion movies and gung-ho American jingoism".
Bill Pullman's pre-battle speech, in which he states that victory in the coming war would see the entire world henceforth describe July 4 as its "independence day", was described as the "the most jaw-droppingly pompous soliloquy ever delivered in a mainstream Hollywood movie" in a BBCi review.
The movie was nominated for the Academy Award for Sound, and a Saturn Award for Best Director, Best Science Fiction Film, Best Special Effects, Best Actor for Jeff Goldblum, Best Actor for Will Smith, Best Costumes, Best Music, Best Performance by a Younger Actor for James Duval, Best Supporting Actor for Brent Spiner, Best Supporting Actress for Vivica A. Fox, and Best Writer. It also was nominated for a C.A.S. Award for "Outstanding Achievement in Sound Mixing for a Feature Film",and a MTV Movie Award for Best Action Sequence, Best Breakthrough Performance for Vivica A. Fox, Best Male Performance for Will Smith, and Best Movie. For its short comings, it was nominated for a Razzie Award for "Worst Written Film Grossing Over $100 Million".
Awards
Academy Award for Visual Effects
Saturn Award for Best Director, Best Science Fiction Film, Best Special Effects
Amanda award for Best Foreign Feature Film
Blockbuster Entertainment Award for Favorite Actor - Science Fiction, Will Smith
Czech Lions award for box office
Golden Screen award for Golden Screen, Golden Screen with 1 Star, and Golden Screen with 2 Stars
International Monitor Award for Electronic Visual Effects
Kids' Choice Awards Blimp Award for favorite movie
MTV Movie Award for Best Kiss
Mainichi Film Concours award for Best Foreign Language Film
People's Choice Award for Favorite Dramatic Motion Picture
Golden Satellite Award for Best Film Editing and Best Visual Effects
Universe Reader's Choice Award for Best Actor in a Genre Motion Picture, Best Cinematography for a Genre Motion Picture, Best Director for a Genre Motion Picture, Best Science Fiction Film, Best Score for a Genre Motion Picture, Best Special Effects in a Genre Motion Picture, Best Supporting Actress in a Genre Motion Picture and Best Writing for a Genre Motion Picture
Legacy
The Katina level of the video game Star Fox 64 is a homage to the climactic battle scene of the movie, featuring squadrons of friendly aircraft dog-fighting swarms of alien ships beneath a giant saucer-shaped mothership. The mothership also destroys the base by shooting a laser beam into it, like the movie, and is destroyed by blowing up the laser emitter.
In the computer game Supreme Commander, one of the super units, the Aeon CZAR, bears resemblance to the alien destroyer depicted in Independence Day and has a similar city destroying energy beam similar to the movie.
The movie, Returner was influenced by Independence Day.
In the game Metal Slug 2, the ending is a parody of Independence Day, including the scene when Russel Casse crashes his plane against the alien spacecraft.
Radio spin-off
on August 4, 1996, BBC Radio 1 broadcast the one-hour play Independence Day UK, written, produced, and directed by Dirk Maggs, a spin-off depicting the alien invasion from a British perspective. None of the original cast were present. Dean Devlin gave Maggs permission to produce an original version, on condition that he did not reveal certain details of the movie's plot and that the British were not depicted as saving the day. Devlin was credited as "Creative Consultant". It won the 1996 Talkie for Best Production.
Independence Day UK was set up to be similar to the 1938 radio broadcast of The War Of The Worlds; the first 20 minutes were set as being live. It did not stir panic as War of the Worlds, but there were a few phone calls to the BBC Duty Office.
The British setting was more an excuse to make fun of Hollywood action heroes. They had one character say at the end "I bet the Americans claim the credit for this!" Maggs achieved authentic aircraft and cockpit interior sounds by recording at the an Royal Air Force RAF base.
Video Game
An Independence Day video game was released in 1997 for the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, PC, and Mobile.
DVD versions
The theatrical version of the film was 2 hours, 25 minutes. A Special Edition, released on DVD, contains an additional nine minutes of footage. Much of the reincorporated material involves the Casse family. For example, it reveals that Troy is chronically ill (in the theatrical cut, he just throws up along the way) and receives treatment in the Area 51 infirmary upon arrival. The extended version of the movie has also been aired on television.
Sequel
Devlin told Sci-fi Wire that he and Emmerich were planning a sequel to Independence Day. "Roland and I, we're back to work on doing a sequel to Independence Day," Devlin said in an interview. "I think we finally found a story that we wanted to tell." Devlin hoped to get as many of the original cast as possible. He refused to comment on the sequel's plot. A majority of the cast stated that they would like to star in the sequel. Devlin wanted Will to return because he was great to work with: "He was the guy who was willing to stand out in the sun, in baking heat, and be his own stand-in while the cameras were being set up. He was such a trooper during the making of the picture."
At the 28th annual Saturn Awards, Devlin revealed that the plot's story was influenced by the September 11th attacks. After the attacks, Davlin felt that "there was something in the culture that reminded us of the message of the movie and how people came together. We were deeply effected about that. We were asked a lot of questions in the press in relation to seeing those images. So it spurred a lot of discussion, and out of those discussions came a way of doing the film. And we move from that." He later told Scifiwire, that it "started because people were asking us about images that were fantasy images that then looked so frightening real in the [wake of] horrible events that took place."
Devlin also felt that 9/11 was parallel to Independence Day; "how the world came together in the aftermath". Oddly, when George W. Bush was talking about disclosed details of the failed Al Qaeda plot to fly a plane into the tallest building in Los Angeles, Fox aired numerous images from Independence Day, showing the reported target of the attack, the Library Tower, now known as the U.S. Bank Tower.
A year later, Devlin told Sci-fi Wire that he and Emmerich were working on the script. If the script did not turn up as good as they desired, they'll "bury it". He still declined to discuss the plot, but added that the quality of the screenplay was a key factor in getting the original cast.
18. Spider-Man (2002)
(Collections: $806,700,000)
Spider-Man is a 2002 American superhero film based on the fictional Marvel Comics character Spider-Man. The film is the first in the Spider-Man film series. The film was written by David Koepp, and directed by Sam Raimi. It stars Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst and Willem Dafoe.The film begins with Peter Parker, a high school student, being bitten by a genetically altered spider. After misusing his newly given abilities, which indirectly caused the death of his Uncle Ben, he becomes the heroic Spider-Man. Peter hopes to win the heart of Mary Jane Watson, the girl he has loved since he was a boy, and battles the villainous Green Goblin, who is the father of Peter's best friend, Harry Osborn.
After being stuck in development hell for nearly 25 years, the film was released on May 3, 2002 to good reviews from critics, went on to break box office records, and became the highest grossing film of 2002. The success of the film led to two sequels, Spider-Man 2 and Spider-Man 3. This led the films to being a trilogy in the Spider-Man film series.
Story and Plot Point
Peter Parker, his best friend Harry Osborn, and secret crush Mary Jane Watson visit a genetics laboratory with their high school class. While taking photos in the laboratory, Peter is bitten on the hand by a genetically engineered "super spider", and arrives home and passes out with the bite wound considerably swollen. Meanwhile, Norman Osborn, Harry's father, attempts to preserve his company's military contract from a rival firm, personally experimenting with his company's new but unstable performance-enhancing chemical vapor to increase his speed, strength, and stamina. Afterward, he goes into an uncontrollable rage and kills his assistant. The next morning, Peter finds that his previously impaired vision has improved to 20/20 and that his body has metamorphosized into a more muscular physique. When Peter goes to school, he finds himself producing webbing and having the quick reflexes to avoid being injured in a fight with Flash Thompson. Peter escapes from the school and realizes that he has acquired spider-like abilities from the spider bite. Peter quickly learns to scale walls, long jump across building rooftops and swing via webs from his wrists.
Lying to his aunt and uncle about where he is going, Peter decides to enter a wrestling tournament to get money to buy a car and impress Mary Jane. During an argument, Uncle Ben advises Peter, "With great power comes great responsibility." Peter lashes out at his uncle and leaves for the tournament. Peter wins, but is cheated out of the contest money. In retaliation he allows a thief to escape with the promoter's gate money. Afterward, Peter finds his uncle has been carjacked and killed. Peter tracks down the carjacker only to find out it was the same thief he allowed to escape earlier. During the struggle, the carjacker falls out of a window and dies. Upon graduating, Peter decides to use his abilities to fight injustice, and dons a new costume and the persona of Spider-Man. Peter is hired as a freelance photographer when he arrives in newspaper editor J. Jonah Jameson's office with the only clear images of Spider-Man.
Norman, upon finding out that Oscorp's board members plan to sell the company, attacks them at the World Unity Fair. Although he successfully murders them, Peter engages him as Spider-Man and drives him off as he threatens Mary Jane. Jameson quickly dubs Norman as the Green Goblin. The Goblin offers Spider-Man a place at his side as he sees how the authorities mistrust him, but Spider-Man refuses, knowing that it is the right thing to do. The Goblin commits arson to engage him with a final offer, which Spider-Man refuses, and the Goblin becomes set on killing him. At the Osborn and Parkers' Thanksgiving dinner, Norman notices Peter's wound from the masked confrontation and leaves shortly thereafter. Feeling betrayed by Peter, and having found a personal annoyance with Aunt May, he attacks her. While she recovers in the hospital, Mary Jane admits she has a crush on Spider-Man, who rescued her on numerous occasions, and asks Peter whether he ever asked about her. Peter reflects on his own feelings, during which Harry enters. Feeling betrayed by his girlfriend, Harry tells his father whom Peter loves the most, unintentionally revealing what is Spider-Man's biggest weakness.
The Goblin strikes, holding Mary Jane and a tram car full of children hostage on top the Queensboro Bridge where Spider-Man arrives. The Goblin tells Spider-Man to choose who he wants to save, and when Spider-Man refuses to choose, the Goblin drops his hostages. Spider-Man manages to save both Mary Jane and the tram car, whilst the Goblin is pelted at by civilians, showing loyalty to Spider-Man and proving him wrong by telling the Goblin that if "you mess with one of us, you mess with all of us." The Goblin then grabs Spider-Man and throws him into an abandoned building where he begins to beat him. The tables turn as the Goblin boasts of how he will later kill Mary Jane, and an enraged Spider-Man dominates over him, forcing the Goblin into being unmasked. Norman begs for forgiveness, but his Goblin persona attempts to remote-control his glider to impale Spider-Man. The superhero evades the attack, causing the glider to impale Norman instead, and he dies asking Peter not to reveal his secret to Harry. At Norman’s funeral, Harry swears vengeance toward Spider-Man, who he believes is responsible for killing his father, and asserts that Peter is all he has left. Mary Jane confesses to Peter that she’s in love with him, but Peter, feeling that he must protect her, hides his true feelings. As Peter leaves the funeral, he recalls Uncle Ben's words, "With great power comes great responsibility." The film ends with Spider-Man web-swinging through the city he vows to defend.
Cast and characters
"I felt like I was an outsider. I think what happened to me made me develop this street sense of watching people and working out what made them tick, wondering whether I could trust them or not. I went to a lot of schools along the coast in California, made few friends and stayed with aunts, uncles and grandparents while my folks tried to make ends meet. It was tough. We had no money."
— Tobey Maguire on identifying with Peter Parker
Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker / Spider-Man: An academic but socially inept student who is bitten by a genetically modified spider and gains spider-like abilities. Maguire was cast as Peter in July 2000, having been Sam Raimi's primary choice for the role after he saw The Cider House Rules. The studio was initially hesitant to cast someone who did not seem to fit the ranks of "adrenaline-pumping, tail-kicking titans", but Maguire managed to impress studio executives with his audition. The actor was signed for a deal in the range of $3 to $4 million with higher salary options for two sequels. To prepare, Maguire was trained by a physical trainer, a yoga instructor, a martial arts expert and a climbing expert, taking several months to improve his physique. Maguire studied spiders and worked with a wire man to simulate the arachnidlike motion, and had a special diet.
The studio had expressed interest in actors Leonardo DiCaprio, Freddie Prinze, Jr, Chris Klein, Wes Bentley and Heath Ledger. DiCaprio had been considered by James Cameron for the role in 1995, while Raimi joked of Prinze that "[he] won't even be allowed to buy a ticket to see this film." In addition, actors Scott Speedman, Jay Rodan, and James Franco were involved in screen tests for the lead role.
Willem Dafoe as Norman Osborn / Green Goblin: CEO of Oscorp who tests an unstable strength enhancer on himself and becomes the insane and powerful Green Goblin. Unaware of Spider-Man's true identity, he also sees himself as a father figure for Peter, ignoring his own son, Harry. Dafoe was cast as Osborn in November 2000. Nicolas Cage turned down the role of due to his commitment on Adaptation, while John Malkovich also rejected the role because of scheduling difficulties and a disinterest in the genre. Dafoe insisted on wearing the uncomfortable costume as he felt that a stuntman would not convey the character's necessary body language. The 580-piece suit took half an hour to put on.
Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson: The girl whom Peter Parker has developed a crush since he was six years old. Mary Jane has abusive parents and aspires to become an actress, but becomes a waitress at a run down diner, a fact she hides from her boyfriend Harry. Before Raimi cast Dunst, he had expressed his interest in casting Alicia Witt. Dunst decided to audition after learning Maguire had been cast, feeling the film would have a more independent feel. Dunst earned the role a month before shooting in an audition in Berlin.
James Franco as Harry Osborn: Before being cast as Peter's best friend and flatmate, Franco had screen tested for Spider-Man himself.
Cliff Robertson as Ben Parker: The husband to May Parker and uncle of Peter Parker, a fired electrician who is trying to find a new job. He is killed by a carjacker whom Peter failed to stop, and leaves Peter with the message, "With great power comes great responsibility."
Rosemary Harris as May Parker: The wife to Ben Parker and the aunt of Peter Parker. May is a devout Christian who is highly aware of Peter's love for Mary Jane.
J. K. Simmons as J. Jonah Jameson The grouchy chief editor of the Daily Bugle who considers Spider-Man a criminal. Nonetheless he has a good side and pays Peter for photos of Spider-Man, and refuses to tell the Green Goblin the identity of the photographer.
Joe Manganiello as Flash Thompson: A repugnant high school student who bullies Peter, and is defeated in a fight after Peter inherits his spider-like powers.
Michael Papajohn as The Carjacker: The criminal who robs the wrestling manager who stiffs Peter Parker for his ring performance and murders Ben Parker.
Bruce Campbell, a long-time colleague of director Sam Raimi, cameoed as the announcer at the wrestling ring Peter takes part in. Raimi himself appeared off-screen, throwing popcorn at Peter as he enters the arena to wrestle Bonesaw McGraw who was played by former professional wrestler "Macho Man" Randy Savage. Spider-Man co-creator Stan Lee also had a cameo, in which he asks Peter, "Hey kid, would like a pair of these glasses? They're the kind they wore in X-Men." The scene was cut, and Lee only briefly appears in the film to grab a young girl from falling debris during the battle between Spider-Man and the Green Goblin in Times Square.
Production
Development
For more details on this topic, see Spider-Man film series#Development.
Although Sony Pictures acquired the "Cameron material" from MGM/UA, in April 1999 the studio announced they were not hiring James Cameron himself to direct the film. The studio lined up Roland Emmerich, Tim Burton, Chris Columbus and David Fincher as potential directors. Fincher did not want to depict the origin story, pitching the film as being based on The Night Gwen Stacy Died storyline. The studio disagreed. Sam Raimi was attached to direct in January 2000, for a summer 2001 release. He had been a big fan of the comic book during his youth, and his passion for Spider-Man earned him the job.
Cameron's "scriptment" became the basis of David Koepp's first-draft screenplay, often word for word. Cameron's versions of the Marvel villains Electro and Sandman remained the antagonists. Koepp's rewrite substituted the Green Goblin as the primary antagnoist and added Doctor Octopus as a secondary villain. Raimi felt the Green Goblin and the surrogate father-son theme between Norman Osborn and Peter Parker would be more interesting. In June, Columbia hired Scott Rosenberg to rewrite of Koepp's material. Remaining a constant in all the rewrites was the "organic webshooter" idea from the Cameron "scriptment". Raimi felt he would stretch the audience's suspension of disbelief too far to have Peter invent mechanical webshooters.
Rosenberg removed the Ock character and created several new action sequences. Raimi felt adding a third origin story would be make the film too complex. Sequences removed from the final film had Spider-Man protecting Fargas, the wheelchair-bound Oscorp executive from the Goblin, and Spider-Man defusing a hostage situation on a train. As production neared, producer Laura Ziskin hired her husband, award-winning writer Alvin Sargent, to polish the dialogue, primarily between Peter and Mary Jane. Columbia offered David Koepp's name to the WGA as sole screenwriter, despite the fact that it had acquired Cameron's script and hired two subsequent writers. Without reading and comparing any of the material, the Writers Guild approved sole credit to Koepp.
Filming
With Spider-Man cast, filming was set to begin the following November in New York City and on Sony soundstages. The film was set for release a year later, but when the film was postponed to be released on May 3, 2002, the shoot began on January 8, 2001 in Culver City. Sony's Stage 29 was used for Peter's Forest Hills home, and Stage 27 was used for the wrestling sequence where Peter takes on Bonesaw McGraw (Randy Savage). Stage 27 was also used for the complex Times Square sequence where Spider-Man and the Goblin battle for the first time, where a three-story set with a breakaway balcony piece was built. The scene also required shooting in Downey, California. On March 6, 45-year-old construction worker Tim Holcombe was killed when a forklift modified as a construction crane crashed into a construction basket that he was in. The following court case led to the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health to fine Sony $58,805.
In Los Angeles, locations included the Natural History Museum (for the Columbia University lab where Peter is bitten and receives his powers), the Pacific Electricity Building (the Daily Bugle offices) and the Greystone Mansion for the interiors of Norman Osborn's home. In April, some of the Spider-Man costumes were stolen, and Sony put up a $25,000 reward, although they were never returned. Production moved to New York City for two weeks, taking in locations such as the Queensboro Bridge, the exterior of Columbia University's Law Library and a rooftop garden in the Rockefeller Center. The crew returned to L.A. where production was finished in June.
Design
Although it wound up being faithful to the comics, many designs were made for Spider-Man's costumes: one concept costume designer James Acheson became fond of had a red emblem over a black costume. To create Spider-Man's costume, Maguire was fitted for the skintight suit, being covered with layers of substance to create the suit's shape. It was designed as a single piece, except for the mask. The webbing, which accented the costume, was cut by computer. The mask eye lenses were designed to have a mirror look.
The Green Goblin's costume was created after Willem Dafoe was cast, as Dafoe rejected the initially bulky designs created beforehand. The finished design focused on a more streamlined and athletic feel, and the mask in particular was created to be an extreme cartoon version of his face, focusing on his long cheekbones. Some of the early designs were heavily inspired by black ops. One popular idea among the concept artists was to have the Goblin accompanied by adolescent women in costume and have their own gliders. Raimi hated the idea.
Effects
Visual effects supervisor John Dykstra was hired to produce the visual effects for Spider-Man in May 2000. He convinced Raimi to make many of the stunts computer generated, as they would have been physically impossible. Raimi had used more traditional special effects in his previous films and learned a lot about using computers during production. Raimi worked hard to plan all the sequences of Spider-Man swinging from buildings, which he described as, "ballet in the sky." The complexity of such sequences meant the budget rose from an initially planned $70 million to around $100 million. Shots were made more complicated because of the main characters' individual color schemes, so Spider-Man and the Green Goblin had to be shot seperately for effects shots: Spider-Man was shot in front of a greenscreen, while the Green Goblin was shot against bluescreen. Shooting them together would have resulted in one character being erased from a shot.
Dykstra said the biggest difficulty of creating Spider-Man was that as the character was masked, it immediately lost a lot of characterization. Without the context of eyes or mouth, a lot of body language had to be put in so that there would be emotional content. Raimi wanted to convey the essence of being Spider-Man, being, "the transition that occurs between him being a young man going through puberty and being a superhero." Dykstra said his crew of animators had never reached such a level of sophistication to give subtle hints of still making Spider-Man feel like a human being. When two studio executives were shown shots of the computer generated character, they believed it was actually Maguire performing stunts. In addition, Dykstra's crew had to composite areas of New York City and replaced every car in shots with digital models. Raimi did not want it to feel entirely like animation, so none of the shots were 100% computer generated.
Release
After the terrorist attacks on the United States of September 11, 2001, Sony recalled teaser posters which showed a close-up of Spider-Man's face with the New York skyline (including, prominently, the World Trade Center towers) reflected in his eyes. The movie's original trailer, released in 2001, featured a group of bank robbers on their getaway in a helicopter, which Spider-Man catches in a giant spider-web between the two towers of the World Trade Center. The trailer was pulled after the events of September 11, 2001, attacks and can be found on the internet.
Before Spider-Man's British theatrical release in June 2002, the BBFC gave the film a '12' certificate. Due to Spider-Man's popularity with younger children, this prompted much controversy. The BBFC defended their decision, arguing that the film could have been given a '15'. Despite this, North Norfolk and Breckland District Councils, in East Anglia, changed it to a 'PG', and Tameside council, Manchester, denoted it a 'PG-12'. In late August, the BBFC relaxed their policy to '12A', leading Sony to re-release the film.
Critical reception
Critical reaction to the film was mostly positive. Film review site Rotten Tomatoes calculated a 90% overall approval based on 200 reviews, and it scored an 84% Cream of the Crop rating from major news outlets. The casting, mainly Tobey Maguire, is often cited as one of the high points of the film. Eric Harrison, of the Houston Chronicle, was initially skeptical of the casting of Tobey Maguire, but, after seeing the film, he stated, "within seconds, however, it becomes hard to imagine anyone else in the role." USA Today critic Mike Clark believed the casting rivaled that of 1978's Superman. Owen Gleiberman, of Entertainment Weekly, had mixed feelings about the casting, particularly Tobey Maguire. "Maguire, winning as he is, never quite gets the chance to bring the two sides of Spidey -- the boy and the man, the romantic and the avenger -- together." The Hollywood Reporter's Kirk Honeycutt thought, "the filmmakers' imaginations work in overdrive from the clever design of the cobwebby opening credits and Spider-Man and M.J.'s upside down kiss -- after one of his many rescues of her -- to a finale that leaves character relationships open ended for future adventures."
Not all of the criticism was good, as LA Weekly's Manohla Dargis wrote, "It isn't that Spider-Man is inherently unsuited for live-action translation; it's just that he's not particularly interesting or, well, animated." Giving it 2.5/4 stars, Roger Ebert felt the film lacked a decent action element; "Consider the scene where Spider-Man is given a cruel choice between saving Mary Jane or a cable car full of school kids. He tries to save both, so that everyone dangles from webbing that seems about to pull loose. The visuals here could have given an impression of the enormous weights and tensions involved, but instead the scene seems more like a bloodless storyboard of the idea." Stylistically, there was heavy criticism of the Green Goblin's costume, which led Richard George of IGN to comment years later, "We're not saying the comic book costume is exactly thrilling, but the Goblin armor (the helmet in particular) from Spider-Man is almost comically bad... Not only is it not frightening, it prohibits expression."
Box office performance
Spider-Man was commercially released in the United States on May 3, 2002 in 3,615 theaters. The film earned $114,844,116 during its opening weekend and became the fastest theatrical release to reach $100 million, crossing the milestone in three days. The film's three-day record was later surpassed by Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest in 2006. Spider-Man also set an all-time record for the highest earnings in a single day with $43,622,264 on May 4, 2002, a record later surpassed by Shrek 2 in 2004. In the U.S. box office, Spider-Man became the highest grossing film of 2002 with $403,706,375, defeating The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. Spider-Man currently ranks #7 in the all-time U.S. box office. The film also grossed $821,708,551 worldwide, currently placing it #14 in worldwide box office ranks.
Awards
The film has won several awards ranging from Teen Choice Awards to the Saturn Awards, and was even nominated for two Academy Awards ("Best Visual Effects" and "Best Sound"). While only Danny Elfman brought home a Saturn Award, Raimi, Maguire, and Dunst were all nominated for their respective positions. It also took home the People's Choice Award for "Favorite Motion Picture."
19. Star Wars (1977)
(Collections: $797,900,000)
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope (originally released as Star Wars) is a 1977 space opera film, produced, written, and directed by George Lucas. It was the first of six films released in the Star Wars saga; three later films precede the story in the series' internal chronology. Ground-breaking in its use of special effects, this first Star Wars movie is one of the most successful films of all time and generally considered one of the most influential as well.Set far in the past, the movie tells the story of a plot against an oppressive Galactic Empire by a group of freedom fighters known as the Rebel Alliance. Seeking to make their authority absolute the Empire has recently completed its ultimate weapon: the Death Star, a moon-sized battle station capable of destroying a planet. Even so, spies have managed to obtain schematic plans of the station in the hope of finding a weakness. Rebel Leader Princess Leia Organa is racing to transport these plans to the rebel base when her ship is attacked and she and the crew are captured by Imperial forces. In a desperate attempt to complete her mission, Leia hides the plans within one of her two servant androids and records a quick message to former military general and rebel sympathizer: Obi-Wan Kenobi. Explaining her circumstances she begs Kenobi see that the plans are delivered safely to the base. The androids are then launched, in an escape pod, to Obi-Wan's home planet of Tatooine, where they come into the possession of teenaged farmer, Luke Skywalker. The secret message is soon discovered and Skywalker sets off to locate Kenobi and find a way to help the Princess.
Inspired by films like the Flash Gordon serials and the samurai films of Akira Kurosawa, as well as such critical works as Joseph Campbell's The Hero with a Thousand Faces, Lucas began work on Star Wars in 1974. Produced with a budget of US$11,000,000 and released on May 25, 1977, the film became one of the most successful of all time, earning $460 million in the United States and $337 million overseas, as well as receiving several film awards, including 10 Academy Award nominations. It was re-released several times, sometimes with significant changes; the most notable versions were the 1997 Special Edition and the 2004 DVD, which were modified with CGI effects and recreated scenes.
Story and Plo Point
An opening crawl reveals that the galaxy is in a state of civil war. The Rebel Alliance has stolen plans to the Galactic Empire's Death Star, a space station capable of annihilating a planet. Princess Leia Organa of Alderaan has possession of the plans, and before she is captured by the Empire, she hides them, along with a holographic recording, in a "droid" named R2-D2. The small droid escapes with his humanoid partner C-3PO to the surface of the desert planet Tatooine below. On Tatooine, the droids are captured by Jawas, who sell them to moisture farmer Owen Lars and his nephew, Luke Skywalker. While Luke cleans R2-D2, he accidentally triggers part of a holographic message, in which Princess Leia requests the help of "Obi-Wan Kenobi." The only Kenobi he knows is Ben Kenobi, a hermit who lives in the nearby hills, but Uncle Owen dismisses any connection.
Later, R2-D2 escapes, causing Luke and C-3PO to go out after him. Luke is attacked by Tusken Raiders. Along the way, they meet the "old wizard" Ben Kenobi, who reveals himself to be Obi-Wan. He takes them back to his hut and tells of his days as a Jedi Knight, and explains to Luke about a mysterious energy field called "the Force". He also tells Luke about his father, Anakin Skywalker, gives him his father's lightsaber, and tells him that Anakin had been "betrayed and murdered" by Obi-Wan's former pupil, Darth Vader. Obi-Wan then views Princess Leia's message, in which she begs him to take R2-D2 and the Death Star plans to Alderaan, where her father will be able to retrieve and analyze them. Obi-Wan asks Luke to accompany him to Alderaan and to learn the ways of the Force. After discovering that his home has been destroyed and his aunt and uncle killed by Imperial stormtroopers, Luke agrees to go with Obi-Wan to Alderaan, and to learn to become a Jedi like his father. At the seedy Mos Eisley Spaceport, the group finds a smuggler named Han Solo and his Wookie friend Chewbacca, who agree to transport them on their ship, the Millennium Falcon. Attacked by stormtroopers as they board the ship, they make a hasty escape and prepare for a hyperspace leap to Alderaan.
Meanwhile, Leia has been imprisoned on the Death Star and has resisted interrogation. Grand Moff Tarkin, the Death Star's commanding officer, destroys her home planet of Alderaan as a means of demonstrating the power of the Empire's new weapon. The planet's destruction is felt by Obi-Wan aboard the Millennium Falcon while he is instructing Luke about the Force. Arriving at the coordinates for the planet, they are bombarded instead by rubble from the explosion. Following a TIE Fighter toward what appears to be a small moon, they are captured by the Death Star's tractor beam. Using hidden compartments to surprise Imperial stormtroopers and donning their armor as disguises, Han and Luke escape to a command room to wait while Obi-Wan attempts to disable the tractor beam. While they are there, R2-D2 discovers that Princess Leia is scheduled for termination. Han and Luke stage a rescue on the cell block, but they are forced into a garbage chute when their escape route is cut off. Making their way back to the Millennium Falcon, their path is cleared by the spectacle of a lightsaber duel between Darth Vader and his former master, Obi-Wan Kenobi. Warning the dark lord that he will become "more powerful than you can possibly imagine," the old Jedi allows himself to be struck down as the others escape toward a hidden rebel base. A beacon hidden aboard the ship allows the Empire to track their route.
After landing on Yavin IV, the Death Star plans are analyzed by the Rebel Alliance and a potential weakness is found, one which will require the use of single-man fighters to slip past the Death Star's formidable defenses. Luke joins the assault team while Han collects his reward for the Princess' rescue. The attack proceeds as planned but suffers heavy losses without a successful torpedo hit in the small thermal exhaust port which would create a chain reaction. During Luke's run, Darth Vader engages the Rebels in ship-to-ship combat, but before he can destroy Luke, the Milennium Falcon appears and destroys one of Vader's wingmen while the other wingman shouts "Look out!" and attempts to veer away from the Falcon but instead veers into Vader's fighter and is destroyed crashing into the trench wall. Vader is last seen spinning out of control into outer space. Guided by the voice of Obi-Wan to "use the Force," Luke shuts off his targeting computer and fires the successful shot which destroys the Death Star seconds before it could attack the Rebel base. At a grand ceremony, Princess Leia awards medals to Luke and Han for their heroism in the battle.
Production
During post-production on his previous film, American Graffiti, Lucas repeatedly discussed the concept of a "space opera" with producer Gary Kurtz. In May 1973, Lucas had prepared a 14-page story outline for distribution among film studios. Because of its outer space setting, the story was viewed as science fiction, an unpopular genre at the box office. Lucas later proposed that terms like "space fantasy" or "science fantasy" better fit the story. He brought the outline to Universal Studios and United Artists; both rejected the project. Lucas disliked the studio system because his previous two films, American Graffiti and THX 1138, had been re-edited without his consent. Still, aware that studios were unavoidable, he pursued Alan Ladd, Jr., the head of 20th Century Fox. Although Ladd did not grasp the technical side of the project, he believed that Lucas was talented. Lucas later stated that Ladd "invested in me, he did not invest in the movie."
Lucas finished a draft of the screenplay in May 1974. As the draft developed, the characters evolved significantly. Early in development, Luke Skywalker's character changed from a 60-year-old general to a member of a family of dwarfs; the Corellian smuggler, Han Solo, was envisioned as a large, green-skinned monster with gills. Chewbacca was inspired by Lucas' Alaskan malamute dog, Indiana, who often acted as the director's "co-pilot" by sitting in the passenger seat of his car. The Force, a mysterious energy field, was initially conceived as the Kyber crystal, a "galactic holy grail." The completed script was too long for one movie; however, Lucas refused to condense it. Instead, he expanded the first third of it into one movie and left the rest for two future films, effectively creating the original Star Wars trilogy.
Lucas hired conceptual artist Ralph McQuarrie to create paintings of certain scenes during screenwriting. When Lucas delivered his screenplay to the studio, he included several of McQuarrie's paintings. 20th Century Fox approved a budget of $8,250,000; American Graffiti's positive reviews allowed Lucas to renegotiate his deal with Alan Ladd, Jr. and request the sequel rights to the film. For Lucas, this deal protected Star Wars' unwritten segments and most of the merchandising profits.
In 1975, Lucas founded the visual effects company Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) after discovering that 20th Century Fox's visual effects department had been disbanded. ILM began its work on Star Wars in a warehouse in Van Nuys, California. Most of the visual effects used motion control photography, which creates the illusion of size by employing small models and slowly moving cameras. Model spaceships were constructed on the basis of drawings by Joe Johnston, input from Lucas, and paintings by McQuarrie. Lucas opted to abandon the traditional sleekness of science fiction by creating a "used universe" in which all devices, ships, and buildings looked aged and dirty.
A traditional underground building in Matmâta, Tunisia, was used as a set for Luke's home on Tatooine.
When filming began on March 22, 1976 in the Tunisian desert for the scenes on the planet Tatooine, the project faced several problems. Lucas fell behind schedule in the first week of shooting due to a rare Tunisian rainstorm, malfunctioning props, and electronic breakdowns. When actor Anthony Daniels wore the C-3PO outfit for the first time, the left leg piece shattered down through the plastic covering his left foot, stabbing him. After completing filming in Tunisia, production moved into the more controlled environment of Elstree Studios, near London. However, significant problems, such as a crew that had little interest in the film, still arose. Most of the crew considered the project a "children's film," rarely took their work seriously, and often found it unintentionally humorous. Actor Kenny Baker later confessed that he thought the film would be a failure. Harrison Ford found the film "weird," in that there was a Princess with buns for hair and what he called a "giant in a monkey suit" named Chewbacca. Ford also found the dialogue difficult, saying "You can type this shit, George, but you sure can't say it."
Lucas clashed with Director of Photography Gilbert Taylor, whom producer Gary Kurtz called "old-school" and "crotchety." Moreover, with a background in independent filmmaking, Lucas was accustomed to creating most of the elements of the film himself. His camera suggestions were rejected by an offended Taylor, who felt that Lucas was over-stepping his boundaries by giving specific instructions. Lucas eventually became frustrated that the costumes, sets and other elements were not living up to his original vision of Star Wars. He rarely spoke to the actors, who felt that he expected too much of them while providing little direction. His directions to the actors usually consisted of the words "faster" and "more intense."
Ladd offered Lucas some of the only support from the studio; he dealt with scrutiny from board members over the rising budget and complex screenplay drafts. After production fell two weeks behind schedule, Ladd told Lucas that he had to finish production within a week or he would be forced to shut down production. The crew split into three units, led by Lucas, Kurtz, and production supervisor Robert Watts, respectively. Under the new system, the project met the studio's deadline.
During production, the cast attempted to make Lucas laugh or smile as he often appeared depressed. At one point, the project became so demanding that Lucas was diagnosed with hypertension and exhaustion and was warned to reduce his stress level. Post-production was equally stressful due to increasing pressure from 20th Century Fox. Moreover, Mark Hamill's face was injured in a car accident, which made reshoots impossible.
Star Wars was originally slated for release in Christmas 1976; however, delays pushed the film's release to Summer 1977. Already anxious about meeting his deadline, Lucas was shocked when his editor's first cut of the film was a "complete disaster." After attempting to persuade the original editor to cut the film his way, Lucas replaced the editor with Paul Hirsch and Richard Chew. He also allowed his then-wife Marcia Lucas to aid the editing process while she was cutting the film New York, New York with Lucas' friend Martin Scorsese. Richard Chew found the film had an unenergetic pace; it had been cut in a by-the-book manner: scenes were played out in master shots that flowed into close-up coverage. He found that the pace was dictated by the actors instead of the cuts. Hirsch and Chew worked on two reels simultaneously; whoever finished first moved on to the next.
Meanwhile, Industrial Light & Magic was struggling to achieve unprecedented special effects. The company had spent half of its budget on four shots that Lucas deemed unacceptable. Moreover, theories surfaced that the workers at ILM lacked discipline, forcing Lucas to intervene frequently to ensure that they were on schedule. With hundreds of uncompleted shots remaining, ILM was forced to finish a year's work in six months. Lucas inspired ILM by editing together aerial dogfights from old war films, which enhanced the pacing of the scenes.
During the chaos of production and post-production, the team made decisions about character voicing and sound effects. Sound designer Ben Burtt had created a library of sounds that Lucas referred to as an "organic soundtrack." For Chewbacca's growls, Burtt recorded and combined sounds made by dogs, bears, lions, tigers, and walruses to create phrases and sentences. Lucas and Burtt created the robotic voice of R2-D2 by filtering their voices through an electronic synthesizer. Darth Vader's breathing was achieved by Burtt breathing through the mask of a scuba tank implanted with a microphone. Lucas never intended to use the voice of David Prowse, who portrayed Darth Vader in costume, because of Prowse's English West Country accent. He originally wanted Orson Welles to speak for Darth Vader. However, he felt that Welles' voice would be too recognizable, so he cast the lesser-known James Earl Jones. Nor did Lucas intend to use Anthony Daniels' voice for C-3PO. Thirty well-established voice actors, such as Stan Freberg, read for the voice of the droid. According to Daniels, one of the major voice actors, believed by some sources to be Stan Freberg, recommended Daniels' voice for the role.
When Lucas screened an early cut of the film for his friends, among them directors Brian De Palma, John Milius and Steven Spielberg, their reactions were disappointing. Spielberg, who claimed to have been the only person in the audience to have enjoyed the film, believed that the lack of enthusiasm was due to the absence of finished special effects. Lucas later said that the group was honest and seemed bemused by the film. In contrast, Alan Ladd, Jr. and the rest of 20th Century Fox loved the film; one of the executives, Gareth Wigan, told Lucas, "This is the greatest film I've ever seen," and cried during the screening. Lucas found the experience shocking and rewarding, having never gained any approval from studio executives before. Although the delays increased the budget from $8 million to $11 million, the film was still the least expensive of the Star Wars saga.
Releases
Charles Lippincott was hired by Lucas' production company, Lucasfilm Ltd., as marketing director for Star Wars. Because 20th Century Fox gave little support for marketing beyond licensing T-shirts and posters, Lippincott was forced to look elsewhere. He secured deals with Stan Lee, Roy Thomas and Marvel Comics for a comic book adaptation and with Del Rey Books for a novelization. Wary that Star Wars would be beaten out by other summer films, such as Smokey and the Bandit, 20th Century Fox moved the release date to Wednesday before Memorial Day: May 25, 1977. However, few theaters ordered the film to be shown. In response, 20th Century Fox demanded that theaters order Star Wars if they wanted an eagerly anticipated film based on a best-selling novel titled The Other Side of Midnight.
The film became an instant success; within three weeks of the film's release, 20th Century Fox's stock price doubled to a record high. Before 1977, 20th Century Fox's greatest annual profits were $37,000,000; in 1977, the company earned $79,000,000. Although the film's cultural neutrality helped it to gain international success, Ladd became anxious during the premiere in Japan. After the screening, the audience was silent, leading Ladd, Jr. to fear that the film would be unsuccessful. He was later told that, in Japan, silence was the greatest honor to a film. Meanwhile, thousands of people attended the ceremony at Grauman's Chinese Theatre, where C-3PO, R2-D2 and Darth Vader placed their footprints in the theater's forecourt. Although Star Wars merchandise was available to enthusiastic children upon release, only Kenner Toys—who believed that the film would be unsuccessful—had accepted Lippincott's licensing offers. Kenner responded to the sudden demand for toys by selling boxed vouchers in its "empty box" Christmas campaign; these vouchers could be redeemed for the toys in March 1978.
In 1978, at the height of the film's popularity, Smith-Hemion Productions approached Lucas with the idea of The Star Wars Holiday Special. The end result is often considered a failure; Lucas himself disowned it. Lucas entered into a wager with long-time friend Steven Spielberg during the production of Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Lucas was sure Close Encounters would outperform the yet-to-be-released Star Wars at the box office and bet 2.5% of the proceeds of each film against each other. Lucas lost the bet, of course, and to this day Spielberg is still receiving proceeds from the first of the Star Wars movies.
The film was originally released as—and consequently often called—Star Wars, without Episode IV or the subtitle A New Hope. The 1980 sequel, Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, featured an episode number and subtitle in the opening crawl. When the original film was re-released in 1981, Episode IV: A New Hope was added above the original opening crawl. Although Lucas claims that only six films were ever planned, representatives of Lucasfilm discussed plans for nine or 12 possible films in early interviews. The film was re-released theatrically in 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, and 1997.
Special Edition
After ILM used computer generated effects for Steven Spielberg's Jurassic Park, Lucas concluded that digital technology had caught up to his original vision for Star Wars. As part of Star Wars' 20th Anniversary celebration in 1997, A New Hope was digitally remastered and re-released to theatres, along with The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, under the campaign title The Star Wars Trilogy: Special Edition. The Special Edition versions contained visual shots and scenes that were unachievable in the original release due to financial, technological, and time restraints; one such scene involved a meeting between Han Solo and Jabba the Hutt. Although most changes were minor or cosmetic in nature, some fans believe that Lucas degraded the movie with the additions. For instance, a particularly controversial change in which a bounty hunter named Greedo shoots first when confronting Han Solo has inspired T-shirts brandishing the phrase "Han Shot First."
DVD release
A New Hope was released on DVD on September 21, 2004 in a box set with The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and a bonus disc of supplemental material. The movies were digitally restored and remastered, and more changes were made by George Lucas.
The DVD features a commentary track from George Lucas, Ben Burtt, Dennis Muren, and Carrie Fisher. The bonus disc contains the documentary Empire of Dreams: The Story of the Star Wars Trilogy, three featurettes, teaser and theatrical trailers, TV spots, still galleries, an exclusive preview of Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, a playable Xbox demo of the LucasArts game Star Wars Battlefront, and a "Making Of" documentary on the Episode III video game. The set was reissued in December 2005 as part of a three-disc "limited edition" boxed set without the bonus disc.
The trilogy was re-released on separate two-disc Limited Edition DVD sets from September 12 to December 31, 2006; the original versions of the films were added as bonus material. Controversy surrounded the release because the unaltered versions were from the 1993 non-anamorphic Laserdisc masters, and were not retransferred with modern video standards.
Reaction
Star Wars debuted on May 25, 1977 in 32 theaters, and proceeded to break house records, effectively becoming one of the first blockbuster films. It remains one of the most financially successful films of all time. Some of the cast and crew noted lines of people stretching around theaters as they drove by. Even technical crew members, such as model makers, were asked for autographs, and cast members became instant household names. The film's original total U.S. gross came to $307,263,857, and it earned $6,806,951 during its first weekend in wide release. Lucas claimed that he had spent most of the release day in a sound studio in Los Angeles. When he went out for lunch with his then-wife Marcia, they encountered a long queue of people along the sidewalks leading to Mann's Chinese Theatre, waiting to see Star Wars. The film became the highest-grossing film of 1977 and the highest-grossing film of all time until E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial broke that record in 1982. (With subsequent rereleases, Star Wars reclaimed the title, but lost it again to James Cameron's 1997 blockbuster Titanic.) The film earned $797,900,000 worldwide, making it the first film to reach the $300 million mark. Adjusted for inflation it is the second highest grossing movie of all time in the United States, behind Gone with the Wind.
In a 1977 review, Roger Ebert called the film "an out-of-body experience," compared its special effects to those of 2001: A Space Odyssey, and opined that the true strength of the film was its "pure narrative." Vincent Canby called the film "the movie that's going to entertain a lot of contemporary folk who have a soft spot for the virtually ritualized manners of comic-book adventure." Pauline Kael of The New Yorker criticized the film, stating that "there's no breather in the picture, no lyricism," and that it had no "emotional grip." Jonathon Rosenbaum of the Chicago Reader stated, "None of these characters has any depth, and they're all treated like the fanciful props and settings!" Peter Keough of the Boston Phoenix said "Star Wars is a junkyard of cinematic gimcracks not unlike the Jawas' heap of purloined, discarded, barely functioning droids." Stanley Kauffmann of The New Republic also responded negatively, noting, "His work here seems less inventive than in THX 1138." According to rottentomatoes.com, of the 54 critical reviews of the film provided on that site, 51 responded favorably (95% of the reviewers), stating in consensus that "the action and special effects are first rate."
In 1989, the U.S. National Film Registry of the Library of Congress selected the film as a "culturally, historically, or aesthetically important" film. In 2006, Lucas' original screenplay was selected by the Writers Guild of America as the 68th greatest of all time. The American Film Institute (or AFI) listed it 15th on a list of the top 100 films of the 20th century; in the UK, a poll created by Channel Four named A New Hope (together with its successor, The Empire Strikes Back) the greatest film of all time. The American Film Institute has named Star Wars and specific elements of it to several of its "top 100 lists" of American cinema, compiled as a part of the Institute's 100th anniversary celebration. These include the 27th most thrilling American film of all time; the thirty-ninth most inspirational American film of all-time; Han Solo as the fourteenth greatest American film hero of all time and Obi-Wan Kenobi thirty-seventh on the same list. The often repeated line "May the Force be with you" was ranked as the 8th greatest quote in American film history. John Williams' score was ranked as the greatest American film score of all time.
Star Wars won several awards at the 50th Annual Academy Awards, including Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, which went to John Barry, Norman Reynolds, Leslie Dilley and Roger Christian. Best Costume Design was awarded to John Mollo; Best Film Editing went to Paul Hirsch, Marcia Lucas and Richard Chew; John Stears, John Dykstra, Richard Edlund, Grant McCune and Robert Blalack all received awards for Best Effects, Visual Effects. John Williams was awarded his third Oscar for Best Music, Original Score; the Best Sound went to Don MacDougall, Ray West, Bob Minkler and Derek Ball; and a Special Achievement for Sound Effects went to Ben Burtt. Additional nominations included Alec Guinness for Best Actor in a Supporting Role, George Lucas for Best Screenplay and Best Director, although it did not win Best Picture, which went to "Annie Hall". At the Golden Globe awards, the film was nominated for Best Motion Picture - Drama, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor (Alec Guinness), and Best Score. It only won the award for Best Score. It received six BAFTA nominations: Best Film, Best Editing, Best Costume, Best Production/Art Design, Best Sound, and Best Score; the film won in the latter two categories. John Williams' soundtrack album won the Grammy award for Best Album of an original score for a motion picture or television program, and the film was awarded the Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation. In 1997, the MTV Movie Awards awarded Chewbacca the lifetime achievement award for his work in the Star Wars trilogy. Star Wars has also been the subject of many parodies, including South Park and Family Guy.
Cinematic influence
Star Wars has influenced many films and filmmakers since its release. It began a new generation of special effects and high-energy motion pictures. The film was one of the first films to link genres—such as space opera and soap opera—together to invent a new, high-concept genre for filmmakers to build upon. Finally, it shifted the film industry's focus away from personal filmmaking of the 1970s and towards big-budget blockbusters for younger audiences.
Actor Michael Shanks cited Star Wars as an influence on many battle scenes from the television series Stargate SG-1, namely "Fallen." Joss Whedon's Serenity features several references: the spaceship Serenity, influenced by the Millennium Falcon; a "used future" where vehicles and culture are obviously dated; and clothing for its own evil empire. After seeing Star Wars, director James Cameron quit his job as a truck driver to enter the film industry. Other filmmakers who have said to have been influenced by Star Wars include Peter Jackson, Ridley Scott, Dean Devlin, Roland Emmerich, Kevin Smith and John Singleton. Scott, like Whedon, was influenced by the "used future" and extended the concept for his science fiction horror film Alien. Jackson used the concept for his production of the Lord of the Rings trilogy to add a sense of realism and believability.
Some critics have blamed Star Wars and also Jaws for "ruining" Hollywood by shifting its focus from "sophisticated" and "relevant" films such as The Godfather, Taxi Driver, and Annie Hall to films about "spectacle" and "juvenile fantasy."Peter Biskind complained for the same reason: "When all was said and done, Lucas and Spielberg returned the 1970s audience, grown sophisticated on a diet of European and New Hollywood films, to the simplicities of the pre-1960s Golden Age of movies… They marched backward through the looking-glass."
Cast
Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker. Skywalker is a young man who lives with his aunt and uncle on a remote planet and who dreams of something greater than his current position in life.
Harrison Ford as Han Solo. Solo is a self-centered smuggler whom Obi-Wan and Luke meet in a cantina and with whom they later travel. Solo, who owns the ship Millennium Falcon, is good friends with Chewbacca, the ship's co-pilot.
Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia Organa. Organa is a member of the Imperial Senate and a leader of the Rebel Alliance. She plans to use the stolen Death Star plans to find the station's weakness.
Alec Guinness as Obi-Wan "Ben" Kenobi. Kenobi is an aging man who served as a Jedi Master during the Clone Wars. Early in the film, Kenobi introduces Luke to the Force.
David Prowse as Darth Vader. Vader is a Dark Lord of the Sith, and a prominent figure in the Galactic Empire who hopes to destroy the Rebel Alliance. He was Obi-Wan's apprentice before turning to the dark side of the Force. He was voiced by James Earl Jones.
Anthony Daniels as C-3PO. C-3PO is an interpreter droid who falls into the hands of Luke Skywalker. He is rarely without his counterpart droid, R2-D2.
Kenny Baker as R2-D2. R2-D2 is a mechanic droid who also falls into the hands of Luke. He is carrying a secret message for Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca. Chewbacca is the Wookiee co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon and a close friend of Han Solo.
Peter Cushing as Grand Moff Tarkin. Tarkin is the commander of the Death Star and a Regional Governor. He leads the search for the Rebel Base, hoping to destroy it.
Denis Lawson as Wedge Antilles. Wedge is a starfighter pilot who fights with Luke in the Battle of Yavin. In the ending credits, Lawson's first name is misspelled "Dennis."
Lucas shared a joint casting session with long-time friend Brian De Palma, who was casting his own film Carrie. As a result, Carrie Fisher and Sissy Spacek auditioned for both films in each other's respective roles. Lucas favored casting young actors without long-time experience. While reading for Luke Skywalker (then known as "Luke Starkiller"), Hamill found the dialogue to be extremely odd because of its universe-embedded concepts. He chose to simply read it sincerely and was selected instead of William Katt, who was subsequently cast in Carrie. Lucas initially rejected the idea of using Harrison Ford, as he had previously worked with him on American Graffiti, and instead asked Ford to assist in the auditions by reading lines with the other actors and explaining the concepts and history behind the scenes that they were reading. Lucas was eventually won over by Ford's portrayal and cast him instead of Kurt Russell, Nick Nolte, Christopher Walken, Billy Dee Williams and Perry King. Virtually every young actress in Hollywood auditioned for the role of Princess Leia, including Terri Nunn, Jodie Foster and Cindy Williams. Carrie Fisher was cast under the condition that she lose 10 pounds of weight for the role. Aware that the studio disagreed with his refusal to cast big-name stars, Lucas signed veteran stage and screen actor Alec Guinness as Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Additional casting took place in London, where Mayhew was cast as Chewbacca after he stood up to greet Lucas. Lucas immediately turned to Gary Kurtz, and requested that Mayhew be cast. Daniels auditioned for and was cast as C-3PO after he saw a McQuarrie drawing of the character; struck by the vulnerability in the robot's face, he instantly wanted to help to bring the character to life.
Cinematic and literary allusions
According to Lucas, the film was inspired by numerous sources, such as Beowulf and King Arthur for the origins of myth and world religions. Lucas originally wanted to rely heavily on the 1930s Flash Gordon film serials; however, Lucas resorted to Akira Kurosawa's film The Hidden Fortress and Joseph Campbell's The Hero With a Thousand Faces because of copyright issues with Flash Gordon. Star Wars features several parallels to Buck Rogers and Flash Gordon, such as the conflict between Rebels and Imperial Forces, the "wipes" between scenes, and the famous "opening crawl" that begins each film. A concept borrowed from Flash Gordon—a fusion of futuristic technology and traditional magic—was originally developed by one of the founders of science fiction, H.G. Wells. Wells believed the Industrial Revolution had quietly destroyed the idea that fairy-tale magic might be real. Thus, he found that plausibility was required to allow myth to work properly, and substituted elements of the Industrial Era: time machines instead of magic carpets, Martians instead of dragons, and scientists instead of wizards. Wells called his new genre "scientific fantasia."
Star Wars was influenced by the 1958 Kurosawa film The Hidden Fortress; for instance, the two bickering peasants evolved into C-3PO and R2-D2, and a Japanese family crest seen in the film is similar to the Imperial Crest. Star Wars borrows heavily from another Kurosawa film, Yojimbo. In both films, several men threaten the hero, bragging how wanted they are by authorities. The situation ends with an arm being cut off by a blade. Mifune is offered "twenty-five ryo now, twenty-five when you complete the mission." whereas Han Solo is offered "Two thousand now, plus fifteen when we reach Alderaan." Lucas' affection for Kurosawa may have influenced his decision to visit Japan in the early 1970s, leading some to believe he borrowed the name "Jedi" from jidaigeki (which in English means "period dramas," and refers to films typically featuring samurai).
Lucas also drew inspiration from J. R. R. Tolkien's fantasy series The Lord of the Rings. Obi-Wan Kenobi is similar to the Wizard Gandalf, albeit in differing fashions, and Darth Vader resembles the Witch-king of Angmar in that both are the chief servants of a higher evil power and dress in black. Luke watches the duel of Obi-Wan and Vader from across a chasm as Frodo witnessed the duel between Gandalf and the Balrog; both feature their respective blue and red melee weapons. There are numerous other similarities between the two works.
Tatooine is similar to Arrakis from Frank Herbert's book Dune. Arrakis is the only known source of a longevity drug called the Spice Melange; Han Solo is a spice smuggler who has been through the spice mines of Kessel. Lucas' original concept of the film dealt heavily with the transport of spice, although the nature of the material remained unexplored. In the conversation at Obi-Wan Kenobi's home between Obi-Wan and Luke, Luke expresses a belief that his father was a navigator on a spice freighter. Other similarities include those between Princess Leia and Princess Alia (pronounced /əˈliːə/), and between Jedi mind tricks and "The Voice," a controlling ability used by Bene Gesserit. In passing, Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru are "Moisture Farmers"; in Dune, Dew Collectors are used by Fremen to "provide a small but reliable source of water." Frank Herbert says that, during production of the Dune film, he calculated the odds of points of similarity between Star Wars and Dune being a coincidence. The results came out as greater than the number of stars in the galaxy-to-one against.
The Death Star assault scene was modeled after the 1950s movie The Dam Busters, in which Royal Air Force Lancaster bombers fly along heavily defended reservoirs and aim "bouncing bombs" at their man-made dams to cripple the heavy industry of the Ruhr. Some of the dialogue in The Dam Busters is repeated in the A New Hope climax; Gilbert Taylor also filmed the special effects sequences in The Dam Busters. In addition, the sequence was partially inspired by the climax of the film 633 Squadron directed by Walter Grauman.
The opening shot of Star Wars, in which a detailed spaceship fills the screen overhead, is a nod to the scene introducing the interplanetary spacecraft Discovery One in Stanley Kubrick's seminal 1968 film 2001: A Space Odyssey. The earlier big-budget science fiction film influenced the look of A New Hope in many other ways, including the use of EVA pods, hexagonal corridors, and primitive computer graphics. The Death Star has a docking bay reminiscent of the one on the orbiting space station in 2001. The film also draws on The Wizard of Oz: similarities exist between Jawas and Munchkins, the main characters disguise themselves as enemy soldiers, and Obi-Wan dies, leaving only his empty robe in the same fashion as the Wicked Witch of the West. Although golden and male, C-3PO is inspired by the robot Maria from Fritz Lang's 1927 film Metropolis. His whirring sounds were speculated to be inspired by the clanking noises of the Tin Woodsman in The Wizard of Oz.
Soundtrack
On the recommendation of his friend Steven Spielberg, Lucas hired composer John Williams, who had worked with Spielberg on the film Jaws, for which he won an Academy Award. Lucas felt that the film would portray visually foreign worlds, but that the musical score would give the audience an emotional familiarity. In March 1977, Williams conducted the London Symphony Orchestra to record the Star Wars soundtrack in twelve days.
Lucas wanted a grand musical sound for Star Wars, with leitmotifs to provide distinction. Therefore, he assembled his favorite orchestral pieces for the soundtrack, until John Williams convinced him that an original score would be unique and more unified. However, a few of Williams pieces were influenced by the tracks given to him by Lucas. The "Main Title Theme" was inspired by the theme from the 1942 film King's Row, scored by Erich Wolfgang Korngold, and the track "Dune Sea of Tatooine" drew from the soundtrack from Bicycle Thieves, scored by Alessandro Cicognini. The American Film Institute's list of best scores lists Star Wars' soundtrack at number one.
Novelization
The novelization of the film was published in December 1976, six months before the film was released. The credited author was George Lucas, but the book was revealed to have been ghostwritten by Alan Dean Foster, who later wrote the first Expanded Universe novel, Splinter of the Mind's Eye. The book was first published as Star Wars: From the Adventures of Luke Skywalker; later editions were titled simply Star Wars (1995) and, later, Star Wars: A New Hope (1997), to reflect the retitling of the film. Certain scenes deleted from the film (and later restored or archived in DVD bonus features) were always present in the novel (since it had been based on the screenplay), such as Luke at Tosche Station with Biggs and the encounter between Han and Jabba (referred to as "Jabba the Hut") in Docking Bay 94. Other deleted scenes from the movie, such as a close-up of a stormtrooper riding on a Dewback, were included in a photo insert added to later printings of the book.
Smaller details were also different from the film version; for example, in the Death Star assault, Luke's callsign is Blue Five instead of Red Five as in the film. Charles Lippincott secured the deal with Del Rey Books to publish the novelization in November 1976. By February 1977, a half million copies had been sold.
Radio drama
A radio drama adaptation of the film was written by Brian Daley, directed by John Madden, and produced for and broadcast on the American National Public Radio network in 1981. The adaptation received cooperation from George Lucas, who donated the rights to NPR. John Williams' music and Ben Burtt's sound design were retained for the show; Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker) and Anthony Daniels (C-3PO) reprised their roles as well. The radio drama featured scenes not seen in the final cut of the film, such as Luke Skywalker's observation of the space battle above Tatooine through binoculars, a skyhopper race, and Darth Vader's interrogation of Princess Leia. In terms of Star Wars canon, the radio drama is given the highest designation (like the screenplay and novelization), G-canon.
20. Shrek the Third (2007)
(Collections: $791,106,665)
Shrek the Third is the third film in the series, following Shrek and Shrek 2. It was produced by Jeffrey Katzenberg for DreamWorks Animation, and is distributed by Paramount Pictures, and was released in U.S. theaters on May 18, 2007 (June 8 in Mexico, June 22 in Spain, June 15 in Brazil, June 13 in France and June 29 in the UK and Ireland).
It was produced with the working title of Shrek 3 the title used could be a reference to Blackadder in which the third series was called Blackadder the Third. Like the first two Shrek films, the movie is significantly based on fairy tale (specifically Grimm's Fairy Tales) themes. The film is rated PG by the MPAA for some crude humor, suggestive content, and swashbuckling action.
Story and Plot Point
Harold has fallen deathly ill and his ogre son-in-law Shrek and daughter Fiona are next in line to be king and queen. Shrek declines, insisting that an ogre as king is a bad idea and that there has to be someone else for the job. With his final few breaths, the king tells Shrek that there is one other heir who can become the new King of Far Far Away: his nephew, Arthur. Shrek sets out to find this new king, along with Donkey and Puss in Boots. As they're sailing off, Fiona runs to the dock and announces to Shrek that she's pregnant. Shocked, Shrek begins to have nightmares about his future children on the journey to Worcestershire Academy, where they eventually discover that "Artie," who is an academy student, is a loser picked on by the other students - even the nerds. Artie is initially thrilled to be the new king, and excited to be on his way to the throne, until Donkey and Puss inadvertently scare him by talking about things like plague and famine. Panicked, Artie tries to take control of the ship and ends up crashing it on an island where they meet Artie's retired wizard teacher, Merlin.
Meanwhile, Charming has gone to the Poison Apple Bar, where he encounters a slew of fairy tale villains including Captain Hook, the Wicked Queen, a Cyclops, Rumpelstiltskin, Mabel the Ugly Stepsister, the Headless Horseman, Stromboli the Puppet Master, and an assortment of black knights, dwarves, trees, and witches. Although they initially despise Charming, he persuades them to join him in a fight for their "happily ever after". The villains feel their side of the story has never been told and now is the time to do it. Charming and the other villains invade the kingdom and pillage for a time before attacking the castle, disrupting Fiona's baby shower. They capture all of Shrek's fairy tale friends (Gingerbread Man, Pinocchio, The Big Bad Wolf, The Three Blind Mice and The Three Little Pigs), Dragon, and Donkey and Dragon's children. Fiona and Lilian try to escape through an underground passage, along with Doris the Ugly Stepsister, Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty and Rapunzel; the ladies are captured, however, when Rapunzel betrays them and leads them into a trap. They learn that she is in love with Charming, who plans to make her his queen once he claims the throne.
Captain Hook and some of his pirates track Shrek and company to Merlin's island, where they attempt to capture Shrek and kill the others. Shrek and Artie tag-team them effectively, however, and send the villains running, but not before Hook mentions "King Charming" and the takeover of Far Far Away. Concerned for his wife and their child, Shrek urges Artie to return to the safety of Worcestershire; Artie, however, has other ideas. He cons Merlin into coming out of retirement long enough to use his magic and send them all back to Far Far Away; the spell works, but accidentally causes Puss and Donkey to switch bodies because they were touching each other. They find that Charming is bent on revenge against Shrek for 'stealing' his "happily ever after," and plans to kill Shrek in a play later that night. Charming's men arrive shortly, but another clever ruse by Artie tricks the knights into not taking them into custody. Instead, they break into the castle, where play rehearsal and set design are in full swing. In Charming's dressing room, Shrek menaces the would-be king, but Charming is able to summon his men, who burst in and take the four captive.
In an effort to save Artie, Shrek tells Charming that Artie was just a patsy to take his place as King of Far Far Away. Charming believes Shrek and decides not to kill the boy. Artie, who had just been growing to trust Shrek, is crushed by this and runs away. Donkey and Puss are thrown into the tower with Fiona and the other ladies, where Fiona is growing frustrated with the other princesses and their lack of initiative. Queen Lilian grows fed up when Snow White calls her an old lady, and successfully smashes the stone wall of the prison. While the women launch a rescue mission for Shrek, who is being held captive elsewhere, Donkey and Puss work to free Gingy, Pinocchio, the wolf and pigs, Dragon, and Donkey's babies. As they prepare to enter the castle and join the ladies, they encounter Artie, and Puss and Donkey explain to him that Shrek lied so Charming wouldn't kill him. Artie seems hesitant to believe them.
As the kingdom watches, Charming stages a theatrical performance in which he heroically rides to the rescue of Rapunzel in her (fake) tower and sings, somewhat badly. To Charming's profound annoyance, the chained Shrek wins the audience's support by ridiculing his singing and acting. Just as Charming is about to kill Shrek, Fiona and her friends, along with Puss, Donkey and the Fairy Tale characters, leap onto the stage to confront the villains. It goes awry, however, as the villains largely outnumber the heroes and take them prisoner again. In the nick of time, Artie arrives and convinces the villains to stop and turn over a new leaf, proving himself to possess effective leadership skills. The villains drop their weapons and release their captives. Charming, furious at having been thwarted by this boy, lunges for him with his sword. Shrek blocks the blow and appears to take it in his own chest, leading Charming to exult; the attack missed, however, and the sword is lodged harmlessly under Shrek's arm. Shrek informs Charming that he needs to keep looking for his own happily ever after, "because I'm not giving up mine." Dragon slyly knocks over Rapunzel's tower, which traps Charming as it lands on him, and the crowd cheers. Charming's crown is sent rolling across the stage by the impact and is caught by Artie. Shrek tells him that the throne is his if he wants it, but it is his decision to make. Artie lifts the crown toward the audience, who cheer him loudly, then sets it on his own head. While the kingdom celebrates their new monarch, Merlin appears and restores Puss and Donkey to their proper bodies, though their tails remain switched.
As Far Far Away is left in the capable hands of young King Arthur, Shrek retires with Fiona to their swamp. The end shows that Fiona has given birth to triplets, two boys and a girl; Queen Lilian is visiting with them, or else has left Far Far Away to live with them. Their home is overflowing with good-natured chaos, thanks in part to visits from Puss, Donkey, and the Dronkeys, and Shrek and Fiona are exceedingly happy in their new roles as parents.
Cast
Main characters
Character
English voice actor
French voice actor
German voice actor
Spanish voice actor
Mexican voice actor
Japanese voice actor
Shrek
Mike Myers
Alain Chabat
Sascha Hehn
Juan Antonio Muñoz
Alfonso Obregón
Masatoshi Hamada
Donkey
Eddie Murphy
Med Hondo
Dennis Schmidt-Foß
José Mota
Eugenio Derbez
Kōichi Yamadera
Princess Fiona
Cameron Diaz
Barbara Tissier
Esther Schweins
Nuria Mediavilla
Dulce Guerrero
Norika Fujiwara
Puss in Boots
Antonio Banderas
Boris Rehlinger
Benno Fürmann
Antonio Banderas
Antonio Banderas
Naoto Takenaka
Queen Lillian
Julie Andrews
N/A
Marie-Luise Marjan
N/A
N/A
Toshiko Sawada
King Harold
John Cleese
N/A
Thomas Danneberg
N/A
N/A
Takeshi Aono
Prince Charming
Rupert Everett
Lionel Tua
Thomas Vogt
N/A
Ricardo Tejedo
Unshō Ishizuka
Merlin
Eric Idle
N/A
Wolfgang Spier
Claudi García
Arturo Mercado
Hisao Egawa
Arthur Pendragon
Justin Timberlake
Alexis Tomassian
Enzo Fortuny
Keita Tachibana
Other characters
Conrad Vernon as Gingerbread Man, Rumpelstiltskin, and the Headless Horseman
Cody Cameron as Pinocchio, the Three Little Pigs, Ogre Babies, and Bohort
Larry King as Doris the Ugly Stepsister
Amy Poehler as Snow White
Megan Hilty as Snow White(Singing Voice)
Maya Rudolph as Rapunzel
Amy Sedaris as Cinderella
Aron Warner as Big Bad Wolf
Cheri Oteri as Sleeping Beauty and Actress
Regis Philbin as Mabel the Ugly Stepsister
Ian McShane as Captain Hook
Susanne Blakeslee as Wicked Queen
John Krasinski as Sir Lancelot
Seth Rogen as Ship Captain
Kari Wahlgren as Old Lady
Reception
Critical reception to Shrek the Third since its release has been mixed and poor. On Rotten Tomatoes, it received a 41% rating, On the website Box Office Mojo, it currently has a B-. Critical reaction was more negative than that for the first two films in the series. David Ansen wrote that his problem with the film was that, "its slightly snarky wit is aimed almost entirely at parents... this one never touched my heart or got under my skin. It's a movie at war with itself: a kiddie movie that doesn't really want to be one." The film yielded some positive reviews from writers such as A. O. Scott from The New York Times who believed that the movie "seems at once more energetic and more relaxed [than its predecessors], less desperate to prove its cleverness and therefore to some extent, smarter." The Times newspaper also rated it 2 out of 5.
Despite these criticisms, Shrek the Third, which opened in 4,122 North American cinemas on May 18, 2007, grossed a total of US$121,629,270 in its first weekend, the best opening weekend ever for an animated film, and third best overall. As of November 30, Shrek the Third has grossed $321 million in the United States and $473.4 million overseas, bringing its cumulative total to $794.4 million. Compared to its predecessors, the film also had an unusually short box office lifespan. Shrek the Third spent only 12 weeks in theaters, while Shrek and Shrek 2 were respectively in release for 29 and 21 weeks.
Soundtrack
Main articles: Shrek the Third: The Motion Picture Soundtrack and Shrek the Third: Original Motion Picture Score
Sequels
Peter Zaslav said in an interview that the Christmas special Shrek the Halls will pick up from where Shrek the Third left off. The film will also be followed by another sequel, Shrek Goes Fourth, which will be released in theatres in 2010. In an interview with Antonio Banderas, a spin-off film entitled Puss in Boots: The Story of an Ogre Killer was confirmed. The spin-off will take place between Shrek the Third and the untitled fourth Shrek film. With a final movie, Shrek 5 in the works.
Home Video release
Shrek the Third HD DVD retail packaging
The film was released on both DVD and HD DVD on November 13, 2007. The DVD was released in separate pan and scan and 1.78:1 widescreen formats (being the first DreamWorks Animation film to be reformatted from its original ratio of 1.85:1 to 1.78:1). The HD DVD and DVD special features include several deleted scenes, features, trailers, commentary, music videos, and exclusively on the HD DVD version, some web enabled and HDi Interactive Format features such as a special trivia track, a movie guide, and an interactive coloring book which can be downloaded as of street date.
The film and special features on the HD DVD version were presented in 1.85:1 widescreen high definition 1080p and feature a Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 audio soundtrack.
Merchandise
Many toys, games, books, clothes and other products have made their way to stores. For the first time, a Princess Fiona doll has been released, featured an Ogre face mask, and "Kung Fu" Leg action. Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Rapunzel and Snow White Dolls will also become available.
A video game based on the film has been released for the Wii, PlayStation 2, Xbox 360, Game Boy Advance, PlayStation Portable, PC, and Nintendo DS.
Cultural references
Continuing a tradition set by the first two films, Shrek the Third contains several references to popular culture, history, fairy tales, and legend. In the beginning of the film, in Prince Charming's dinner theater, coconuts are used for horse's hoof beats. This same technique was used in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, which also starred John Cleese and Eric Idle. Idle claims to be considering suing the producers of Shrek for the unauthorised use of this gag, while the producers claim they were honoring Idle and Cleese by putting the part in.
