Joan Rivers made headlines this week when she handcuffed herself to a cart at Costco in protest of that chain refusing to sell copies of her memoir, shouting to customers that the store is akin to ” Nazi Germany .” In response, the Anti-Defamation League issued a statement that called out the comedian for these remarks, saying: “Such comparisons only serve to trivialize the Holocaust and are deeply offensive to Jews and other survivors.”
A long time ago in a culture far removed from this one — 1987 to be exact — cinematic satirist Mel Brooks took on box-office game changer George Lucas’ Star Wars franchise and didn’t end up in the Hollywood equivalent of a Sarlacc Pit. Substituting the Schwartz for the Force, Yogurt for Yoda and Pizza The Hutt for Jabba, Brooks gave us Spaceballs and made us laugh harder (intentionally) than Jar Jar Binks ever did. To celebrate the movie’s 25th anniversary, Sony has released a commemorative Blu-Ray edition that mostly does justice to this comedy gem. The Film: Spaceballs (1987) Why It’s An Inessential Essential: Although Life Stinks (1991) was Mel Brooks’ last sturdy feature, the often gut-bustingly funny Spaceballs was his last really inspired comedy. Like many of Brooks’ earlier films, Spaceballs spoofs generic and genre cliches. In this case, the director aimed his blaster at science fiction and fantasy films, Star Wars in particular. Viewed 25 years after its theatrical release, Spaceballs suffers from lopsided structure and occasional laziness, but the movie repeatedly breaks down the fourth wall with such zeal and absurd charm that it’s impossible to resist. (It’s worth noting that the movie was released during the heyday of the Bruce Willis/Cybill Shepherd ABC comedy series Moonlighting , which was heralded for doing the same.) A large part of the movie’s giddy appeal is its game cast, led by SCTV Jedi the late John Candy and Rick Moranis. Candy plays the Wookiee-like Barf and Moranis is particularly hilarious as the clutzy, over-compensating Darth Vader spoof, Dark Helmet — a puny man topped by enormous circumcised headgear. As ringmaster of this circus, Brooks (who also appears in the movie as both President Skroob and Yogurt) is at a point in his career where he’s starting to toss things against the wall out of sheer desperation. And because he’s working with talented comedians and co-writers, most of what he throws sticks. The move is a collection of blisteringly strange and funny sketches, such as the one where Helmet fantasizes about seducing Princess Vespa (Daphne Zuniga) while playing with a set of action figures that includes an even tinier facsimile of himself and the Druish princess. Brooks’ wise-ass, Brecht-by-way-of-Vaudeville sensibility is at the core of the movie’s cantankerous, Yiddish sensibility, and though some of the yucks feel a tad musty, the movie is never tedious. Riffs on cash-in sequels, “Moichandizing” and “turning off the movie” demonstrate that, at that point in his career, Brooks’ cultural comedy mojo was still working. Indeed, Spaceballs doesn’t just hold up as a laugh riot. It’s still highly quotable right down to the characters’ names. (Yogurt! Pizza The Hutt!). “May the Schwartz be with you” still provokes laughter after all these years, as does Barf’s “Funny, she doesn’t look Druish” comment about Princess Vespa. And when the Spaceballs and Dark Helmet land on the Planet of the Apes, one of its denizens grouses; “Oh shit, there goes the planet.” How the Blu-Ray Edition Makes the Case for the Film: The best special features on Sony’s25th anniversary release are the least serious ones. New interviews with a doddering and-haughty Brooks don’t contribute much. (“We were looking for a new genre to destroy,” he exclaims at one point). Much more satisfying is a very funny list of continuity errors in the film, including, a scene in which Dot Matrix (Joan Rivers playing a droid even bitchier than Anthony Daniels’ C-3P0) appears to stop leaving a trail behind her in one desert scene. The film’s gag audio commentary tracks are also suitably ridiculous. One is in “Mawgese,” presumably the native language of Barf, another, in “Dinkese,” the mother tongue of the Jawa-esque Dink Dinks. Unfortunately, the Blu-Ray edition does not markedly improve the picture quality that was found on the 2005 DVD release of Spaceballs . There are still notable visual blemishes, including artifacts that resulted from poor video compression. Still, the dual Blu-Ray/DVD package is worth buying if only because the menus included on the new DVD release are more interactive and the features they include are more impressive than the last time around. Other Trivia: The new 25th anniversary Spaceballs Blu-Ray is loaded with new special features. If you’re a dedicated Mel Brooks fan — even one who lost faith or interest after Robin Hood: Men in Tights and Dracula: Dead and Loving It — you’ll probably get a big kick out of the jokey introduction he recorded to the film’s original trailer. Brooks’ audio commentary track is also worthy, even if he is more than a little full of himself after the wild (and not entirely deserved) multi-platform success of The Producers . Compared to the meager 2005 DVD release, which came with a making-of featurette and a skimpy souvenir booklet, Sony’s 25th anniversary Blu-Ray release is a much more comprehensive presentation of the film. Simon Abrams is a NY-based freelance film critic whose work has appeared in The Village Voice, Time Out New York , Vulture and Esquire . Additionally, some people like his writing, which he collects a t Extended Cut . Follow Movieline on Twitter .
Kim Kardashian is many things: an attention-hogging reality star. A sex tape maven . A total waste of large breasts and oxygen. But Kanye West has found a new way to describe his girlfriend to the world: as the Perfect Bitch . In a Tweet (that has since been deleted for some reason), the rapper said this week that he wrote that track about Kardashian, a tidbit Kim is now wearing as a badge of honor. “I’m honored,” Kardashian has supposedly said in response to the song, with a friend telling TMZ Kim loves it because she “knows he doesn’t mean it in a negative way when he says the word ‘bitch.'” Kardashian adds that the song is flattering because it talks “about how he was with so many other girls but could never find the right one until he met me.” And now? Kanye may put a ring on his bitch , if Kim will let him, that is.
Bret Easton Ellis may be no longer under consideration to write the Fifty Shades of Grey screenplay, but he’s still making his opinions about it known. Namely, he says it would be “ludicrous” to cast a gay actor – specifically Matt Bomer – as Christian Grey in the film because of his sexuality. The openly gay Bomer ( White Collar, Magic Mike ) is considered by some people to be a perfect Christian based on his looks and acting ability. It’s to say Ellis, 48, who raised eyebrows last year by calling Glee a puddle of HIV , is not one of those people angling for Matt to be cast. Ellis insists he is not discriminating on grounds of sexual orientation, but unabashedly believes Bomer is a bad choice. He wrote on Twitter. “Okay. Let’s finalise this … Matt Bomer is totally hot and a very good actor. He is NOT right for Christian Grey and it complicates the role.” “I don’t care how good an actor you are but being married to another man complicates things for playing CG.” “This is NOT about discrimination. It’s about an intensely straight actor wanting absolutely to screw Ana Steele.” “Fifty Shades of Grey: the most popular book on the planet having Matt Bomer – a gay actor – play Christian Grey is absolutely ludicrous. Why?” “Okay I’ll say it. Matt Bomer isn’t right for Christian Grey because he is openly gay. He’s great for other roles but this is too big a game.” “And I think if Matt Bomer wants the role which I doubt the international press tour will be an embarrassing fiasco. He’s not CG. Never.” “I am NOT discriminating Matt Bomer because of his sexuality. Fifty Shades of Grey demands an actor that is genuinely into women. Get it?!?” “I actually think it’s cool that women want Matt Bomer as Christian Grey. It means that we’ve moved beyond stereotypes and that gay is hot.” “I think Matt Bomer is incredibly handsome and a good actor but I think he comes off totally gay in White Collar. And that is why no to CG.” NOTE: The role has not been cast, but Bomer (like the Vampire Diaries ‘ Ian Somerhalder) is frequently discussed as a possible casting choice. It’s unclear if enough readers even know who he is, or care that he’s gay, to influence their perception of his character and on-screen chemistry. As a professional actor he could probably sell it, but opinions will likely vary on how well. As for why Ellis is ranting about it … who knows. What do you think of Ellis’ comments? And do you think Bomer would make a good CG? Sound off in the comments – and in the poll – below: Matt Bomer as Christian Grey?
Carly Rae Jepsen has been dominating the Billboard singles chart all summer long, much to the threatening chagrin of Lady Gaga . This fall? She’s taking aim at the top album ranking. We can confirm that the 26-year old sensation will release a new CD on September 18. It will be titled “Kiss.”
Joan Rivers stopped by a Costco in Burbank, California yesterday. To purchase a six-gallon tub of ketchup and 300 toilet paper rolls? Not exactly. The comedian showed up at the chain in protest of the fact that it’s refusing to sell copies of her book, “”I Hate Everyone … Starting With Me,” on the ground that the jacket displays a few curse words.
Put on blast ! The crypt-keeper comedian, Joan Rivers took a shot at Kimmy Cakes’ obvious preference for that black baller schlong. The 79 year-old was hosting her popular E! fashion segment Fashion Police when she made the jab at the reality star. Commenting on Kimmy and Kanye West’s love affair with leather pants, the comedian, gushed: “She looks amazing. she pulls herself together all the time.” Before launching into a quick quip on Kim K’s love of African-American men, saying: “I’m praying, because I like Kim, that the relationship works because she’s running out of black men.” “She does think that Kanye is the one – you know that – which is why she waited until the second night to f**k him.” The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star, who is currently in a relationship with Kanye West, has also dated Ray J and Reggie Bush while her first husband Damon Thomas is also African-American. Statistically, there are over 500 million black men in the world, and although only a small percent are the owners of luxurious baller peen, we’re sure Kim won’t be running out of any Mandingos anytime soon. Play on Kim. Source
In a thoughtful, well-reasoned statement, Anderson Cooper came out as a proud gay man today, saying: “Recently I’ve begun to consider whether the unintended outcomes of maintaining my privacy outweigh personal and professional principle. It’s become clear to me that by remaining silent on certain aspects of my personal life for so long, I have given some the mistaken impression that I am trying to hide something – something that makes me uncomfortable, ashamed or even afraid. “This is distressing because it is simply not true.” In response to the (not surprising) reveal, many celebrities have taken to Twitter and sent the CNN anchor their best wishes. A sampling is below: Neil Patrick Harris : “Good for you, @AndersonCooper. You’re awesome.” Jesse Tyler Ferguson : “One of the reasons I look up to my friend @andersoncooper is his amazing eloquence. Very proud of him!” Ellen DeGeneres : “I’m proud of you, @AndersonCooper.” LeAnn Rimes : “Rock on @AndersonCooper for being a brave, classy man. Much respect!” Kelly Ripa : “So proud of you @andersoncooper . Always have been, always will be.” Sara Bareilles : “I applaud @andersoncooper for being authentic and honest with the public. It helps others feel brave too.” Joan Rivers : “Thrilled @AndersonCooper came out! So, THAT’S why he never wanted to date me! I would’ve loved having Gloria Vanderbilt as my mother-in-law.”
‘I’m really excited just to show the world that side of me,’ Pauly says of ‘Jersey Shore’ spin-off, premiering tonight at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on MTV. By Gil Kaufman, with reporting by Sway Calloway Pauly D Photo: Ian Spanier After five seasons of “Jersey Shore,” we know DJ Pauly D pretty well. He’s the ultimate prankster who never beefs with anyone, takes crucial care of his beloved sneaker collection and has a crunchy blowout that defies all laws of physics. But the Rhode Island kid has many more sides to show us, and he plans to put them all on display in his spin-off show, “The Pauly D Project.” When asked what parts of his personality “Shore” watchers are missing out on, Pauly told MTV News’ Sway, “Just how much I am all about my home, my family and my friends — you don’t really see that.” In the show — which debuts tonight (March 29) at 10:30 p.m. ET, right after the reboot of “Punk’d” — viewers will tag along as Pauly hits Las Vegas for his DJ residency at the Palms Hotel and Casino with his whole crew in tow, including turntable inspiration Biggie, bodyguard Jerry and wingman Ryan. They’ll also get to see Pauly go home to visit his friends and family and sign a mind-blowing record deal with the G-Note division of 50 Cent’s G-Unit Records. Oh, and did we mention he also hits the road as the opening act for Britney Spears ? Yeah, buddy. “Now you get to see me take my closest friends on the road with me from Rhode Island, and you get to see Rhode Island,” he said. “I’m really excited just to show the world that side of me.” His hookup with 50 is already paying dividends, as the G-Unit General recently tapped Pauly to help out in the first commercial for the rapper’s Street King energy drink . Pauly jumped in front of the camera with 50 and legendary comedian Joan Rivers for what the MC said was a “real oddball group” intended to target a wide range of potential audiences. Don’t miss the premiere of ” “The Pauly D Project ” tonight at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on MTV, following the reboot of ” Punk’d “! For continuing “Pauly” coverage, be sure to check in with MTV’s Remote Control blog. Related Photos Pauly D Project | Cast Photos Pauly D: The Growth Of The Blowout Related Artists DJ Pauly D
MC tells MTV News why he enlisted the ‘real oddball group’ to promote his new energy drink. By Jocelyn Vena 50 Cent Photo: MTV News NEW YORK — 50 Cent got some unusual help for his first Street King energy drink commercial. The mogul and rapper recruited “Jersey Shore” star Pauly D (who is signed to his G-Note record label ) and comedy legend Joan Rivers to help spread the gospel of the newest beverage on the block. The trio gathered at Planet Fitness in upper Manhattan to promote Street King, and MTV News was on hand as 50 and Rivers chewed scenery together. At one point, a caffeinated Rivers even used her feminine wiles to try to seduce the beefy MC. Did it work? Well, fans will have to see if he succumbs to her. Getting Rivers and Pauly onboard was all in the rapper’s master plan to get everyone interested in what he’s selling. “We[‘re] actually shooting the first commercial for my Street King project,” he dished in between takes. “It’s exciting, I got Joan Rivers here. I got Pauly D, a real oddball group. We felt like it would hit different targeted audiences.” However, it’s not just about selling drinks for profit. Fiddy is also using the product for a good cause. “When I developed the concept for this actual project, we thought about my experiences traveling in Africa,” he explained. “And I wanted to do something ’cause of how bad famine does in Africa. So we partnered with United Nations World Food Program in order to provide a meal with every actual energy drink. So I’m excited about that.” Related Artists 50 Cent
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