Simon Cowell Was “Shining!” Debra Winger IS “E.T.!” Wild Movie Facts!

If you love movies like I do, then you will get a kick out of this obscure and fascinating movie trivia!

Yes, this is the face of “The Shining!”

Simon Cowell’s work with Stanley Kubrick is just one unique movie fact I have to share with you, thanks to:

Total Film’s “Believe It Or Don’t’s”!

The terrific British movie magazine “Total Film” always wows with great profiles, set visits and reviews of the best new movies and iflms showing on on DVD…and in the December issue, we get their list of the 25 wackiest film facts…here are a few to entice you:

Ingmar Bergman was a James Bond fan!

If you know this Swedish Director’s work, then the “Cries & Whsipers” Master is NOT an action Director…but as Woody Allen wrote in The New York Times, Bergman watched movies before going to bed that “didn’t make him think and would relax his anxiety!”

And Bond movies were among his favorites! Um, does that include “Die Another Day?”

And here is the trivia you’ve been dying to know:

Simon Cowell – yes, SIMON COWELL – polished Jack Nicholson’s Ax in “The Shining!”

This is fascinating to me…as a young man breaking into show business, Cowell was a “runner” at Elstree Studios outside London…

As part of his job, Cowell was assigned to work on “The Shining”…according to his half-brother Tony:

“I remember him saying he used to clean Jack Nicholson’s ax in between takes for the most famous scenes!”

“He took great pride in it. You could see you face in it, it was so shiny!”

So that was Simon Cowell handling Jack’s Ax between takes for the “Here’s Johnny!” scene…and we know how he turned out the way he did…

And here is some trivia about one of the most beloved films of all time:

Oscar-winning Actress Debra Winger was the voice of “E.T.!”

Debra Winger was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars in the early ’80’s, thanks to such smash hits as “Terms Of Endearment”, Urban Cowboy” and “An Officer And A Gentleman.”

But she was also the voice of “E.T.!”

Here is what she told the magazine:

“Steven Spielberg asked me to record a few sentences – I went in for like one day, maybe two, to do these recordings. I’ve never seen the movie, so I don’t know what he used…well. I know about ‘phone home’ and all that…”

Sound effects creator Ben Burtt did the rest, mixing Winger’s lines with the sounds of raccoons, horses and otters! And with that, he turned a beautiful Actress into THIS!

There are 22 more great pieces of somewhat “british-centric” movie trivia, but tons of fun – so check it out – Total Film is a great magazine!

X-Rated Oscar!

And speaking of movie trivia, how about this: there has been an X-rated film that won the Academy Award for Best Picture of the year! Read all about Oscar’s x-rated infatuation by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/05/07/x-rated-butter-cowboys-droogs-oscars-x-flirtation/

And remember that Ingmar Bergman 007 trivia? Well, did you know that Alice Cooper wrote and performed a Bond theme song?

Alice Cooper’s Censored Bond Theme!

That’s right, Alice Cooper recorded the theme for “The Man With The Golden Gun” but it was rejected! That’s just a little bit of Bond theme trivia, and you can ready more by clicking on here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/12/04/new-james-bond-film-spectre-all-your-bond-trivia-worst-theme-songs/

Let me know what your favorite bit of trivia is!

Um, Marlon Brando Seems To Be Having A VERY BAD DAY…

When one of the world’s most difficult Actors decides he’s not happy with a film, you can only imagine how disastrous the result will be…well, imagine no more!

“Lost Soul: The Doomed Journey of Richard Stanley’s Island of Dr. Moreau”

I love stories ABOUT the movies, and this documentary takes a very revealing behind the scenes look at one of the world’s worst movies EVER!

Marlon Brando and Val Kilmer starred in the 1996 film “The Island Of Dr. Moreau”, widely considered one of the biggest disasters ever released! Now, there is a documentary that looks at how the clash of visions, bad creative decisions, lack of interest by the Actors and really bad weather plagued the film. Check out the trailer:

It all began when Brando showed up to the film’s set looking like this – and it just went downhill from there. As the trailer pointed out, Brando’s demand to have a diminutive co-star with him at all times made life miserable for Director Richard Stanley…

It’s almost his bizarre parody of “Apocalypse Now”…anyway, the documentary tells one horrible behind-the-scenes story after the other…Brando was impossible to work with…but at least he had his makeup done cheap…

The story of the film was simple: a mad Doctor turns his private island into a laboratory, where he creates a new super species…and goes mad in the process:

This documentary look s at all of the problems making the film, not helped by Val Kilmer’s on set antics as well…

I can’t wait to see this movie, as I love the “behind-the-scenes” stuff that goes down on film…and Brando has some of the best stories of all!

Read all about “The Godfather” trivia by clicking here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/03/20/brandos-cue-cards-real-horse-heads-the-godfathers-best-stories/

and of course, Brando clashed with Coppola again, on the set of the greatest anti-war film of all time:

There is a brilliant documentary that captures all of that conflict as well…Eleanor Coppola’s terrific “Hearts Of Darkness:

In the case of “The Godfather” and “Apocalypse Now”, the brilliant ends justified the means…but what if a troubled film ends up turning out – LIKE THIS?

Hard to believe, but “Troll 2″ is often mentioned in the same breath as “Dr. Moreau” for worst film ever made…and now there is a documentary that looks at the cult that has sprung up around it!

“Best Bad Movie!”

This great documentary looks at the making of “Troll 2″ in 1990, and its journey from being crowned the “worst film of all time” to a cherished cult classic.

Check out the trailer:

“Best Worse Movie” was made by the child actor from the movie! He interviews the cast about how the movie changed their lives. He also interviews the Director, who insists that “Troll 2″ is a great film!

There have been a number of great documentaries that look at the film making process – here is another favorite of mine:

American Movie!

If you haven’t seen the movie that introduces you to “Mark and Mike”, then check out my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/03/25/killer-fish-kids-who-paint-and-mid-west-horror-best-documentaries-pt-1/

And here is a book that chronicles a modern masterpiece!

The Room!

Yes, “The Room” is legendary for so many reasons, and Greg Sestero’s terrific book chronicles it all form the inside…read all about it here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/10/27/tommy-wiseaus-classic-the-room-now-a-book-tommys-secrets-revealed/

Tommy Wiseau made one of the greatest, most inept films ever, and that’s what makes “The Room” so entertaining!

Sometimes films are so bad they are good – and sometimes you watch them with THIS look on your face:

Here is a list of some of the most astoundingly bad films ever unleashed on the public:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/05/03/from-the-beatles-to-flying-severed-heads-five-mesmerizingly-bad-films/

Let me know if you’ve ever seen Brando like this!

I LOVE STEVE HARVEY BLOOPERS!

“Family Feud” with Steve Harvey has its highest ratings EVER – and you know why? Because Steve is an award-winning Host who captures the “funny” in the show and takes it to new heights!

“Family Feud” is fun to watch, and there is ALWAYS a moment when you say, “Wha-wha-wha-WHAT!???” Take a look at some of these hilarious moments from the show:

I Love Bloopers!

And Steve is just the tip of the “blooper” iceberg – TV News NEVER stops giving us hilarious “blooper” moments…here are some of the funniest moments already in 2015!

Relaxed Sphincters, “Rowdy” Reporters And More!

Yes, enjoy what 2015 has already offered up:

The local news NEVER lets us down! When you are “live and local” every day of the week, things are bound to go wrong, and that’s why I love it!

And if you missed some of 2014’s most hilarious bloopers, then click on my story here for the funniest things TV has ever NOT wanted to share:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/12/21/2014s-wildest-sexy-news-bloopers-dirty-game-show-bloopers-sex-violence-live-tv/

OK, let me know if you love bloopers as much as I do!

“You’re my boy, Blue! You’re my boy!”

There are moments in film that become immediately iconic – such as this deadly baby oil wrestling match between “Blue” and two co-eds:

But let’s not forget another “Blue” character….you know:

Hail “Bluto!”

Yes, it’s so much fun to watch as movie stars are born, and from the moment John Belushi put on a toga in “National Lampoon’s Animal House”, he was legendary!

TOGA! TOGA! TOGA!

Time to head back to college for two cult movie comedies!

“Old School!”

An instant classic, this is the story of Mitch, Frank and Beanie – three friends who are all disillusioned with their personal lives. When Mitch’s girlfriend cheats on him, Beanie convinces him to take over an old frat house and re-live their college glory days.

Check out the trailer:

Will Ferrell co-stars and promptly steals the movie, as he joins the group and reverts to his college name of “Frank The Tank!”

The film’s most hilarious moment – in a film with many – takes place at a birthday party, when a despondent Frank grabs a tranquilizer gun to inspect it. What happens next is one of the funniest moments on film:

Peppers: Hey, hey. Careful with that. That’s the most powerful tranq gun on the market. Got her in Mexico.
Frank: Cool.
Peppers: Yeah, it is cool. They say it can puncture the skin of a rhino from…
[Frank shoots himself in the neck with the dart]
Peppers: YES! That’s awesome!
Frank: What?
Peppers: You just took one in the jugular, man.
Frank: What? I did.
[feeling his neck]
Peppers: YES!
Frank: Oh, my God. Is this bad? Is this bad?
Peppers: You better pull that shit out, man. That shit is not cool.
Frank: Wait. What? Pull what out?
Peppers: You got a fucking dart in your neck, man.
Frank: [laughing] You’re… you’re crazy, man. I like you, but you’re crazy.

“You’re My Boy, Blue!”

And of course, there is “Blue”, the oldest “pledge” at the fraternity, and “Blue” became a legend to all…

The late character Actor Patrick Crenshaw will live forever as “Blue”, a hilarious comic turn in one of the best comedies about college!

And speaking of classic comedies about college, there is perhaps no better one that this:

National Lampoon’s Animal House!

Ok, this classic comedy is known for so many iconic moments in film, such as these:

Togas!

“Double Secret Probation!”

NIEDERMEYER!

Check out the trailer:

“Animal House” turned John Belushi into a star, and became one of the biggest comedy hits of the 70’s…it also has the best food fight since the Marx Brothers! It all begins one day in the school cafeteria, when John “Bluto” Belushi takes a slow “stuff your face with food” crawl down the cafeteria line – eating, slurping and pocketing a massive amount of food – and piling up his tray.

He winds up at the table with his buddy Boon and a few of the OTHER Frat guys and Sorority girls. There is an amazing amount of uncomfortableness as Bluto sits and begins to stuff his face…to the point where one of the sorority girls exclaims:

“You are a P-I-G PIG!”

Belushi nonchalantly ignores her. “Guess what I am” he says pointedly before he stuffs his mouth with a jello concoction,then presses his fists into his cheeks and spews it out all over the table. “A zit! Get it?”

Let the food fight begin!

The food fight is just one of the many memorable scenes in a classic cult comedy!

In honor of John Blutarsky – Bluto! – here is the perfect recipe for a “jiggly jello” concoction to use when you replicate this scene for friends and family!

Animal House Jiggly Jello!

8 oz. cottage cheese
1 pkg. jello
2 cups cool whip
1 can mandarin oranges
1 can crushed pineapple

Mix the jello according to instructions, then add the cottage cheese, oranges, pineapple and cool whip. Refrigerate until ready to pop!

This is guaranteed to put you in “double secret probation!”

John Belushi’s performance in the cafeteria scene was entirely improvised. When he began piling food on his tray, Director John Landis urged the camera operator to “stay with him.” The infamous “I’m a zit” gag was also improvised, and the reaction from the cast is completely genuine.

The hole John Belushi makes in the wall with the guitar is the only physical damage to the house the movie-makers made during the entire shoot. Instead of repairing it, the fraternity placed a frame around the hole with an engraved brass tag around the hole commemorating it.

So here’s to two of the greatest college comedies of all time!

Time For An “Ultron” Mix Courtesy Of DJ Bruce Lee!

To promote the release of “The Avengers Age Of Ultron”, Robert Downey Jr has been doing lots of interviews and appearances…so how does that lead to this?

DJ Bruce Lee!

The greatest superhero of all-time was Bruce Lee, cinema’s coolest action star, who never needed special effects to be an amazing avenger!

Why am I making this connection? Well, here is a picture of Downey recently – check out the T-shirt!

Yep, “Iron Man” is sporting a “DJ Bruce Lee” T-shirt – and I love it! Lee is an iconic action figure, and his work will last forever…oh yes, and you can buy one of these as well!

So kudos to Robert Downey Jr. for his good taste, and let me take a moment to remind you of just why Bruce Lee was so cool – with an amazing video you have to see to believe!

“Remember: the enemy has only images and illusions behind which he hides his true motives. Destroy the image and you will break the enemy.”

This philosophy may be from the classic action film “Enter The Dragon”, but it speaks to the life of Bruce Lee, one of the most iconic figures of all time.

Bruce Lee was the founder of Jeet Kune Do, and is widely considered to be the most influential martial artist of all time.

Lee was born in San Francisco to parents from Hong Kong – and was raised in Kowloon, just outside of Hong Kong, with his family until his late teens. Lee moved to the United States at the age of 18 to receive his higher education, and it was during this time that he began teaching martial arts. He trained many celebrities, including James Coburn, and it helped him break into films with this mesmerizing scene from “Marlowe.”

What a movie entrance! Bruce Lee also starred in the TV series “The Green Hornet” as Kato, and then went back to Hong Kong to star in an action movie that would propel him to stardom. “The Big Boss” elevated the traditional Hong Kong martial arts film to a new level of popularity and acclaim, leading to his masterpiece…

“Enter The Dragon” is the greatest martial arts movie ever made – and it made Lee a superstar. Lee starred in five movies: The Big Boss (1971), Fist of Fury (1972) and Way of the Dragon (1972), directed and written by Lee – this is the film in which he fights Chuck Norris in the Rome Coliseum!

Enter The Dragon Trailer!

Here’s the trailer for the film that made Bruce Lee a super star:

In “Enter the Dragon”, Bruce played an undercover agent who enters a martial arts tournament in order to infiltrate a drug smuggler’s operation. Character Actor and martial arts afficianado John Saxon also starred and showed off his moves, along with the very under-rated action star Jim Kelly.

Jim Kelly went on to star in such grindhouse classics as “Black Belt Jones” – he was a kick-ass action star who never really broke out big…

And then came tragedy. Bruce Lee died in Hong Kong three weeks before the film’s premiere in 1973. He had already finished filming his next movie, called “Game Of Death” before he died of a brain aneurism. The movie, which was completed after his death, includes footage from Lee’s real-life funeral.

Bruce Lee Vs. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar!

“Game of Death” included an amazing fight between Lee and basketball super star Kareen Abdul-Jabbar…here it is:

Nunchuck Ping Pong!

And now, here is another example of just how amazing an athlete Bruce Lee was. Early in his career, to promote a cell phone from Nokia, Bruce Lee was sponsored by Nokia in a Ping Pong tournament. But as a twist:

he plays with his nunchucks!

Check out this amazing video!

Bruce Lee was an amazing Athlete, talented Actor and Director, and an iconic figure…so much so that he lives on today like this!

And as I mentioned before, Jim Kelly co-starred with Bruce Lee in “Enter The Dragon” – he was a great star in the world of 70’s blaxploitation action film – here is a look at his great career:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/06/30/rip-jim-kelly-bruce-lees-kung-fu-partner-blaxploitation-master/

The other co-star in “Enter The Dragon” was the great character actor John Saxon…

You can read all about this terrific actor here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/04/06/john-saxon-kicks-bruce-lees-ass-classic-kung-fu-action-euro-crime-master/

So it’s time to get the special edition blu-ray of “Enter The Dragon” – and go out and get some DJ Bruce Lee too!

Time For More Live News – Bloopers That Is!

I love bloopers! Whenever you go LIVE, something will happen – and these are some of the funniest!

Check the best mistakes of April 2015 right here:

Thanks and big kudos to “NewsBeFunny” – a great youtube channel that posted these hilarious news bloopers for the month of April 2015 – they are a great channel so PLEASE SUBSCRIBE!

And if you love bloopers, then you will love this as well:

Steve Harvey’s Family Feud Bloopers!

Steve Harvey is the best Host on TV right now, not only his Emmy award-winning daytime talk show, but also as host of “Family Feud!”

Steve’s got some of the funnest bloopers ever – because they all come right from the mouths of the contestants! Here are the best:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/03/22/steve-harvey-family-feud-bloopers-best-news-bloopers-of-2015-so-far/

Enjoy your bloopers!

This Is A Post About A Very Strange Social Media Trend…

You are about to experience celebrity coverage with a VERY unique twist – celebrities eating food!

Sex Symbols Like Their Burgers Too!

Yes, Marilyn Monroe enjoyed a burger, and why not? In her day, photographers hovered for any chance to photograph the star, even if it was while she was dining…

Raquel Welch was a 70’s sex symbol, and it appears that she also always had a burger – and a photographer – at the ready…

And don’t forget “The King”…

Elvis And A Cheeseburger!

Elvis enjoyed a good burger as well, and as usual, there was a photographer nearby to capture the moment…just like the time that Led Zeppelin Guitarist Jimmy Page enjoyed his hamburger…

It seems that everyone has been photographed while eating – but I need someone to please tell me why Robert Plant has an ice cream cone AND a devilish look on his face!

Time To Investigate: Celebrities Eating Food Online!

It’s a scary thing to look up on the internet – if you enter search words celebrities and food – SO much stuff shows up, including compilations like this:

So George Clooney, Arnold Schwarzenegger and the rest like to eat too – and someone took the time to create this tapestry celebrating it! It’s almost disturbing in a way – so many pics of celebrities eating – even funny stuff like this:

Yes, President Obama likes a good burger and fries like the rest of us. In fact, there is a Tumblr blog that has a ton of these pics – it’s called, of course:

“Pictures Of Celebrities Eating Food!”

It’s hilarious, check it out here:

http://picturesofcelebritieseatingfood.tumblr.com

The site has a picture of another President, President Kennedy, eating what they suggest is a hot dog at a ball game:

Today’s Hot Dog Eater!

And if you want a more current “celebrity” eating a hot dog, well this blog has that for you as well, courtesy of a very mod Lady Gaga:

Oh, Gaga like sandwiches too:

“Hey Miley! What’s For Lunch?”

If you have always wanted to ask Miley Cyrus that question, now the internet will answer it for you:

The correct answer is: she is having a salad in her bathrobe. As I said, there are tons of pics – and many funny websites – that highlight celebrities eating…and of course, there are tons of Kim Kardashian dining photos to gawk at – like these for starters:

You get the idea – there are literally a thousand more just like it – sometimes I can’t tell if the pictures are trying to show that celebrities are just like us, or is there something more…

Stop! I mean, what was on Robert Plant’s mind? Anyway, I find this “food trend” humorous and worth pondering as well…and there is a trend toward hot dog consumption as well.

I will leave it at that.

And finally, I have been guilty of adding to this trend. I always say a big “thank you” to Sara Underwood for agreeing to “wear” her food – yes, she dressed up in a bacon bikini for a G4 shoot!

Let me know your favorite “eating” celeb!

Cheers To The Internet!

Yes, the internet just keeps giving and giving…in this case, funny wine pictures and sayings like these:

Wine Description Vandalism!

Someone sent me this picture – someone vandalized a wine description on a store shelf – hilarious!

‏@Filosofizer is the person behind the picture above – great job, thanks for sharing – and it reminded me of a very funny Monty Python bit from one of their books.

This book from Monty Python includes a few of their wine reviews, like these:

“This is not a wine for drinking. This is a wine for putting down and walking away!”

And this is one of my favorites:

“A Fine Regurgitator!”

Here is Monty Python’s hilarious review of Australian Wines:

“Château Blue” –
Château Blue, too, has won many prizes; not least for its taste, and its lingering afterburn.

“Old Smokey 1968” –

Old Smokey 1968 has been compared favourably to a Welsh claret, whilst the Australian Wino Society thoroughly recommends a 1970 Coq du Rod Laver, which, believe me, has a kick on it like a mule: 8 bottles of this and you’re really finished. At the opening of the Sydney Bridge Club, they were fishing them out of the main sewers every half an hour.

“Perth Pink” –

Of the sparkling wines, the most famous is Perth Pink. This is a bottle with a message in, and the message is ‘beware’. This is not a wine for drinking, this is a wine for laying down and avoiding.

“Château Chunder” –
Quite the reverse is true of Château Chunder, which is an appellation contrôlée, specially grown for those keen on regurgitation; a fine wine which really opens up the sluices at both ends.

“Opens Up The Sluices At Both Ends!”

That might be my favorite line of all – here is Python audio of the entire review:

I love Monty Python films, and their TV show is a classic as well, but one of their funniest bits was published here:

The hilarity begins after you take the plain white cover off:

“A Weekly Look At Church Architecture!”

Yes, the book cover is really THIS!

Monty Python was a great comic troupe, and their wine reviews are hilarious – toast to the Pythons!

Finally, here is the kind of wine list you really want to see – nothing but honesty and laughs when you peruse this list to choose a nice glass of wine:

Thanks to the “WonderTonic” tumbler for this hilarious list!

If you want to enjoy a movie with your glass of wine, look no further than here:

The film that destroyed the Merlot industry is really a love letter to wine – read all about it here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/09/28/wine-robots-breaking-wine-news-fin-merlot-toast-to-your-movie-health/

Alex and I were lucky enough to go on vacation to the Chateauneuf-du-Pape wine region of France….

Here is a look at the region – pictures of Gigondas, Seguret, and of course, the very wild vineyards of Chateauneuf-du-Pape:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/09/03/wine-roman-ruins-and-gigondas-too-whiskey-babys-and-a-few-papes-touring-provence-thanks-to-patricia-wells/

Enjoy your wine!

It is the world’s most difficult, and most beautiful obstacle course ever constructed…a course so difficult that thousands have tried to conquer it, and only a handful have been able to do what the Japanese call:

“Achieve Total Victory!’

Welcome to Mt. Midoriama!

As the latest season of “American Ninja Warrior” airs on NBC and Esquire network, I want to congratulate all of the amazing Athletes who are attempting the impossible: successfully finishing all four stages of the Ninja Warrior course!

Welcome To Japan’s Original “Sasuke!”

The American version of “Ninja Warrior” is a huge hit, because it is a show where Athletes must do their all to overcome impossible odds. I wanted to show you some behind-the-scenes pictures I took during my trips to Tokyo for the running of the original Japanese show “Sasuke” – what they call “Ninja Warrior!”

I attended the taping of “Ninja Warrior” four times while at G4 – and I got to see up close just how difficult and impressive the course is. One hundred Athletes show up in the morning to run this difficult course – a television event that is made possible by the incredible team at TBS – Tokyo Broadcasting System – who do an amazing job staging this television event.

“Sasuke” has aired for years on Japanese television, a huge television event that is one of Japan’s most popular. Tokyo Broadcasting System just posted a picture showing the new course for 2015!

I was fortunate enough to meet many of “Ninja Warrior”‘s most legendary athletes like Makito Nagano, the first person to ever “achieve total victory….

I also got to meet the legendary “Octopus Man”, and ran into athletes who were passionate about “achieving total victory”, which is the show’s motto, including one Athlete who “wears” his passion for the event:

Head Over Heels For Sasuke!

Speaking of passionate, here is what our four American competitors did when they saw the course for the first time in 2011:

I was there several times with some of G4’s terrific talent, including Kevin Pereira and Olivia Munn, who both ran the course – along with Producer John Hill, who willingly tried a “test” obstacle for us the day before the official competition got underway…

Oh, and here is how he looked AFTER he tried the test obstacle:

Both Kevin and Olivia took on the course as well, but first, they had to shoot some behind-the-scenes stories on the competition, and that meant they had to climb up to the top of Mt. Midoriama!

Yes, as part of our G4 coverage, Kevin and Olivia were escorted to the top of Mt. Midoriama – a very exhausting and laborious trek, since they were attached by safety cables the entire time!

Olivia Takes On Sasuke!

Both Olivia and Kevin were willing to take on the course, and here is the first obstacle they faced:

As you can see, a small group of family members are allowed to observe the first stage of the competition only – sworn to secrecy of course – and this energetic cheering helps the competitors when it comes time to run…

While she may have pretended to be nervous, Olivia stepped up bravely and gave it her all, taking on the famed Sasuke course, the world’s most difficult obstacle course!

Both Olivia and Kevin ran the course, giving it their all. In the 24+ runnings of the competition, only a handful have ever successfully beaten all four stages of the course, including “Mt. Midoriama”! One Athlete who has done is the legendary Makito Nagano, shown here with his son.

“Ninja Warrior” Behind-The Scenes!

Here are some shots of the course during the day as well as at night. Filming goes on until the last of the one hundred competitors has either fallen into the water or “achieved today victory!”

At night, when the air gets cold, they actually light a bon fire for crew members to stay warm…making Mt. Midoriama look even more impressive in the night sky…

Bravo To Sasuke!

I want to take a moment to thank the entire team from the Tokyo Broadcasting Company – they put on the world’s most challenging obstacle course, and they are consummate professionals every step of the way – no wonder competitors come back over and over to compete in this coveted TV event! It was a great shoot with a terrific team, both in front of and behind the cameras…

I was fortunate enough to attend several tapings of “Ninja Warrior” in Japan, and we also had other talent take part int he event…none more successfully than the talented Athlete Sara Underwood!

Bravo To Sara!

Sara Underwood competed in “Women Of Ninja Warrior”, and she won the first stage of the competition!

Sara also competed in the early G4 versions of “American Ninja Warrior” as well…

Along with competition in “Ninja Warrior”, Kevin and Olivia shot a lot of stories while in Tokyo, and many of them involved getting dressed up and hitting the streets of Tokyo!

Olivia and Kevin Pereira shot episodes of “Attack Of The Show!” from Tokyo, including this hilarious sketch at the world famous Shibuya crossing with the legendary “Dancing Stormtrooper!”

Olivia has portrayed Princess Leia many times…you can see some more of her “Star Wars” performances here…

http://johnrieber.com/2013/11/09/official-star-wars-vii-release-date-olivia-munn-as-princess-leia-bloopers-bacon-darth-vader-fans-galaxy-of-star-wars/

And now, Olivia has become a “Super Hero” herself!

Director Bryan Singer excited fanboys around the world when he announced on twitter a casting for his latest film, X-Men: Apocalypse. “Excited to welcome Olivia Munn as Betsy Braddock aka Psylocke.”

Olivia recently shared her thoughts on this with Entertainment Weekly:

“It’s one of the coolest things,” Munn said. “It really doesn’t feel really. It’s a very cliche thing to say, but it’s just a really surreal thing when you’re on set. … I try not to mess up anything or touch anything, don’t break anything because they’re going to ask you to leave. It’s this feeling of very surreal and temporary in a way, if that makes sense. Like a dream.”

Bravo to Olivia for this great role, she is going to rock it! And remember, she’s not G4’s first Superhero:

Sara Underwood As “Bustice!”

Yes, Sara willingly became G4’s first Super Hero “Bustice” for a series of comedic sketches for our live Comic-Con shows…

And of course, all of G4’s talent went to Comic-Con, and with that incredible pop culture event about to begin, here is a look at what they wore:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/07/22/comic-con-2014-g4s-epic-live-shows-remembered-amazing-cosplay-photos/

So kudos to all of the Superheroes and Super Talent from G4 – including all of our Ninja Warrior champions!

“No $@%!$!! Navy’s Going To Give Some Poor *!%@!$!! Kid Eight Years In The $%!^#!! Brig Without Me Taking Him Out For The Time Of His ^%&^%$ Life.”

It’s one of the many classic lines from one of the most neglected cult movies of the 1970’s, with another phenomenal performance by Jack Nicholson!

The Last Detail

Jack Nicholson chews the scenery for two hours in this great film from the early 70’s…check out the trailer:

Two Navy Shore Patrol – “Bad-Ass” Buddusky, and “Mule” Mulhall – are commissioned to escort a young sailor named Meadows to the brig in Portsmouth.

With a nickname like “Bad-Ass”, you KNOW that Jack is going to chew the scenery…

“You know what I like most about this uniform? The way it makes your dick look.”

“Bad-Ass” can’t believe that he has to deliver a very young Randy Quaid to a prison for stealing forty dollars from the admiral’s wife’s charity!

strong>”Boy, they really stuck it to ya, didn’t they, kid! Stick it in and break it off. Up your giggy with a wah-wah brush, stick it in an’ break it off!”

Buddusky’s Life Lessons!

Buddusky gets it into his head to give Meadows a good time and teach him a bit about getting on in the world. Lesson one: Don’t take every card life deals you…

Meadows: [looking at porn] Are they really doing that when they take that picture?
Buddusky: [pause] Well kid, there’s more things in this life than you can possibly imagine. I knew a whore once in Wilmington. She had a glass eye… used to take it out and wink people off for a dollar.

Jack Nicholson turned down Robert Redford’s role in “The Sting” to appear in “The Last Detail”, which was written by his good friend Robert Towne, who also wrote “Chinatown.”

The script is full of legendary, profane dialogue like this:

Budduskey: I am the motherfucking shore patrol, motherfucker! I am the motherfucking shore patrol! Give this man a beer.
Meadows: I don’t want a beer.
Budduskey: You’re gonna have a fuckin’ beer!

The word “fuck” and all permutations of it are said 65 times. This was a record up to that time!

Jack Nicholson was nominated for Best Actor for the role…

Did Jack Retire?

The internet blew up late last year with news that Jack Nicholson had retired from film. There was a denial, but the fact is we haven’t seen him on screen for awhile…I looked at that story and some of Jack’s greatest film roles, including of course “Chinatown”.

Check out my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/09/04/jack-nicholson-retires-his-greatest-roles-my-jack-moment/

While Jack Nicholson has been a super star for most of everyone’s life, did you know he got his start working with The Monkees?

Jack’s “Head!”

Jack Nicolson’s history is full of unique movies and interesting trivia, like the fact that he wrote the screenplay for The Monkees’ movie “Head!”

It’s a fascinating film, and you can read all about it here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/04/07/jack-nicholsons-musical-head-the-monkees-sing-a-jack-nicholson-cult-classic/

And remember to give The Monkees some credit, they made some great catchy music!

Perhaps the most prolific of the band was Michael Nesmith, who went on to create the brilliant musical comedy “Elephant Parts” AND is considered by many to be the inventor of MTV! Read the story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/11/14/elvis-drugs-michael-nesmith-the-dawn-of-mtv-elephant-parts-the-monkees/

And make sure to look for “The Last Detail” – you will be glad you did!

Wait – Steve Seems A Bit….STIFF!

Time for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the “Art Breakers” on Steve Harvey’s hit NBC talk show! Make sure to watch on Friday, October 9 to see another great Steve Harvey episode with the “Art Breakers!”

The “Art Breakers” On Ovation!

Ovation TV’s new hit series, “Art Breakers” is now on the air! To promote the show, Miller Gaffney and Carol Lee Brosseau appeared on Steve Harvey’s Emmy Award-winning talk show on NBC….

Before they went on stage, Miller and Carol Lee were taken to the “green room”, where they could relax and prep for their segment…

“Cardboard Steve Harvey!”

The green room has nice couches, a changing room, and some snacks. That’s where they found “Cardboard Steve”, a non-quite-lifesized version of Steve…

After posing for pictures, they were taken to the set, where Executive Producer Alex Duda, script boards in hand, put them in place for the filming…

On the segment that airs on the show, they offer appraisal advice to members of the audience who had art to share…and here’s a peek at one of the show’s biggest surprises:

Steve was incredibly gracious, and hilariously funny as always…and after filming is complete, he posed for a few pictures with the “Art Breakers”…

You can see the entire segment on Steve Harvey’s NBC talk show on Friday, October 9th…and on Sunday, October 11 at 8p ET/5p PT, the “Art Breakers” head to Las Vegas!

“Viva Las Vegas!”

Miller and Carol Lee hit the Las Vegas strip to help a wealthy couple with their art collection! Kimberly and Brad Friedmutter invite the “Art Breakers” to their Las Vegas mansion to help choose new work…

Make sure you tune in to see this funny and emotional journey…and thanks to The Friedmutters for opening up their life to us!

What A Nice Reflection!

Miller and Carol Lee worked overtime to film the series and promote the premiere…here they are with the official poster reflected below…and then it was time to celebrate with an “Art Breakers” premiere party!

A “Sparkling” Premiere!

Miller brought sparklers to the event, and everyone did a “sparkling toast” to the new series…

If you want to see more about the show, and a look at each new episode, click on my story here for more details:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/09/27/meet-tvs-art-breakers-ovation-tvs-new-series-about-the-world-of-art/

BIG thanks to Steve Harvey and his entire TV production team for taking care of Miller and Carol Lee!

Steve’s one of the busiest Hosts on TV…here is a look at some of the funniest bloopers from his “other” day job, “Family Feud!”

http://johnrieber.com/2015/03/22/steve-harvey-family-feud-bloopers-best-news-bloopers-of-2015-so-far/

Hope you enjoy “Art Breakers!”

“Hey Darth Vader! Hold Onto My Drink For Me!”

Can you imagine the reaction you’d get from him if you dared to utter those words? With the new “Star Wars” movie opening, however, perhaps we’ll find a more festive “Dark Lord”…

Time to celebrate all of the wacky love that Star Wars fans have for their favorite galaxy “far far away…” And the premiere of the LAST “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” movie trailer – and movie poster!

We begin with one of the pictures that male “Star Wars” fans just can’t ever get enough of…

The original “Princess Leia” certainly knew how to cool off – and heat up the fan base – just as my former G4 Host, Olivia Munn, know how to heat fan boys up as well…

Yes, time to share lots of fun “Star Wars” fan stuff – and trust me, you won’t have to fight Olivia Munn to see it all:

As we get ready for the new “Star Wars” film, I need to share the latest trailer:

And now the floodgates are open with “Star Wars”-infused stuff, like these incredibly fun “Star Wars” Cup Clingers!

Hang On There!

Leave it to the japanese to come up with some of the cutest “Star Wars” products, like these cup clingers…talk about having your beverages protected the right way:

These clever cup clingers cost about $4 each in Japan, and of course real fans will drink them ALL up!

Thanks as always to the wacky folks at “RocketNews24” for the products, see them all by clicking here:

http://en.rocketnews24.com/2015/10/18/star-wars-cup-clingers-may-or-may-not-use-the-force-to-hang-on-the-rim-of-your-glass/

And of course, that’s just the tip of the “Star Wars” mania leading up to the latest film!

I Love This Stormtrooper Body Art!

RocketNews24 also shared this great piece of body art recently – but as well all know, EVERYONE loves to artistically express themselves when it comes to Star Wars – like these legendary Darth Vader helmets!

One great aspect of the “Star Wars” phenomenon is how George Lucas allowed fans to have fun with his characters, which resulted in Darth Vader helmets as unique as this one:

You can see more of “The Vader Project” here:

http://www.designscene.net/2010/05/vader-project.html

And my personal favorite is “Bacon Vader”:

See more examples at “Gamesradar”:

http://www.gamesradar.com/100-amazing-darth-vader-helmets/

And let’s not forget that Darth Vader has a soft side to him as well!

Yes, just more wacky “Star Wars” stuff from “RocketNews24” – check it out here:

http://en.rocketnews24.com/2014/08/19/niconico-video-user-crafts-miniature-violin-playing-darth-vader-just-because-he-can/

And I can never get my fill of great “Star Wars” blooper material either:

Some of the greatest moments can be found here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/11/09/official-star-wars-vii-release-date-olivia-munn-as-princess-leia-bloopers-bacon-darth-vader-fans-galaxy-of-star-wars/

And finally, one of my favorite pieces of trivia about “Star Wars” involves this guy:

Yes, THIS was the original “Han Solo!” Find out how “Flash Gordon” inspired George Lucas to create “Star Wars” by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/04/05/how-flash-gordon-created-star-wars-sam-jones-the-original-han-solo/

As always, my “Star Wars” stuff will NEVER leave you hanging!

One of the most difficult aspects of making a film is deciding what to call it – after all, lots of us go see a film based on the title!

Sure, “Jaws” pretty much nailed it…big shark, “JAWS”…I’m in…and when a movie has a distinctive, iconic title, there’s not much more you need to worry about…here are more examples of films where the titles pretty much told you all you need to know…

Yes, THAT film title explains exactly what you are about to see as well! And in that vein of “this film MUST be as bad as it sounds”, I offer you this movie title:

“I Could Never Have Sex With Any Man Who Has Such Little Respect For My Husband!”

First of all, what was the year 1973 thinking when it released this movie to the world?

That said, it’s not only a very accurate description of the film, but one of the strangest movie titles of all time!

In this sex farce, a couple of aspiring swingers rent a summer cottage in Martha’s Vineyard. There they sit around discussing the pros and cons of having affairs!

Of course they do!

This was an actual movie that was released in theaters…and here’s another wacky movie title that shares the same distinction!

“Psyched By The 4D Witch”!

Yes, it’s not only one of the strangest movie titles ever, but it was theatrically released as well! The early 70’s were obviously a gold mine for wacky!

I probably don’t have to tell you this, but “Psyched By The 4D Witch” is one of the worst films of all time…read all about it here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/10/06/manos-hands-of-fate-is-here-halloween-2015-celebrates-horrors-worst-directors-sex-fleshpots-4d-witches/

Oh, Dustin Hoffman, REALLY?

While “4D Witch” will only be remembered by the people who made it, some of these strange movie titles had really big stars in the films – here is a great example – take a deep breath and try to get this movie title out in one sitting:

“Who Is Harry Kellerman And Why Is He Saying Those Terrible Things About Me?”

What the? Well, this obscure 1971 film starred Dustin Hoffman as a song writer who cannot love himself, or others. So he spends his days with various women flying his plane, and dropping in to the world around him. Um, OK….

Dustin went on to star in some more mainstream movies with more straightforward titles of course:

Well, maybe not…you see, I wanted to share some of the funniest and most unique movie titles of all time – the films themselves may be good, bad or ugly, or in some cases, cult classics like this one!

“Sorority Babes In The Slimeball Bowl-A-Rama!”

This 80’s cult horror film starred Scream Queen Linnea Quigley, and was originally called “The Imp!”

You see, a bunch of sorority sisters are trapped in a bowling alley, and are terrorized by the afore-mentioned “Imp!”

To see more of this wackiness, and to celebrate Linnea Quigley in all of her greatness, click on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/10/28/scream-queen-linnea-quigley-naked-graveyard-dancing-horror-demons-too/

Finally, there is this gem…if you think I am joking about this movie title, YOU ARE WRONG:

“The World’s First Monster Musical!”

Yes, this is real movie! Time to embrace:

“The Incredibly Strange Creatures Who Stopped Living and Became Mixed-Up Zombies!”

Watch this classic trailer for “the world’s first monster musical!”

That is, without a doubt, the most unique movie title I’ve ver heard…well, except for the others! So there you have it, five very strange movie titles…let me know which is your favorite!

How About Waking Up To THIS Review?

Legendary Comic George Burns, after seeing the movie, said:

“For the first time in 65 years, I wanted to get out of show business”.

Time For The Demented Madness Of “The Gong Show Movie!”

If you haven’t heard about this movie, you are missing one of the strangest films ever released by a major studio – receiving some of the worst reviews of all time – but, in its own bizarre way, a wildly entertaining movie! First, let’s remind you about the mastermind behind it:

Meet Chuck Barris!

TV Exec-turned-Producer Chuck Barris created some of the longest-running TV game shows in history, including “The Dating Game” and “The Newlywed Game!”

But of course, his masterpiece of TV insanity was “The Gong Show!”

I don’t think we could ever have gotten to Simon Cowell and “American Idol” if it wasn’t for this series, which gave people a chance at stardom – and ridicule….a wildly entertaining talent show where all of the talent was awful – need proof?

Meet “Gene Gene The Dancing Machine!”

Here is one of the “breakout” stars from the show:

“The Gong Show” also introduced America to “The Unknown Comic”, who always performed with a bag on his head!

The success of this syndicated comedy show led to one of the most surreal films ever released in movie theaters!

Behold the Majesty Of “The Gong Show Movie”!

You saw at the beginning of my post the reaction from comedy legend George Burns…but read some of the movie dialogue:

Father Ed: Today I’d like to pose a Biblical question. Is there reincarnation after death, and if there is, does the individual return in a higher or lower state than he or she held in his or her mortal life?
Chuck Barris: Ooh, that’s an interesting question, Father Ed. What is, uh, what is the answer to that question?
Father Ed: Beats the shit out of me.

The plot is simple: it’s a week in the life of “The Gong Show” host and creator Chuck Barris – who lives through a series of outrageous competitors, stressful situations, a nervous breakdown and other comical characters involved in his life and work on the TV show.

Here is the somewhat amazing preview:

Here’s an amazing fact for you: the film was co-written by Barris and underground film legend Robert Downey Sr. – yes, HIS Dad!

NEW YORK – MAY 08: Actor Robert Downey Jr. and father Robert Downey Sr. arrive at TIME’s 100 Most Influential People Gala at Frederick P. Rose Hall on May 08, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images)

Shout! Factory has a new blu-ray release of this obscure film, which you can read about here:

https://www.shoutfactory.com/film/film-comedy/the-gong-show-movie

And you will see one of the more surreal moments – from the TV show – that was included in the film:

This is footage of Judge Jaye P. Morgan flashing her breasts! This moment was taken from an actual “Gong Show” taping, was censored for TV – and found its way into the film!

And if you want to know more about the wacky creator of “The Gong Show”, here you go!

“An Unauthorized Autobiography!”

Yes, Chuck Barris wrote one of the most unusual autobiographies of all time! In Barris’s autobiography, “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind”, he claims that he worked for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) as an assassin in the 1960s and the 1970s!

The memoir was turned into a 2002 film, directed by George Clooney!

Here is the trailer:

That’s Sam Rockwell playing Barris…what a surreal life! Oh, the CIA denies Barris ever worked for them in any capacity. After the release of the movie, CIA spokesman Paul Nowack said Barris’ assertions that he worked for the spy agency “[are] ridiculous. It’s absolutely not true.”

Barris wrote a sequel to his bestseller called “Bad Grass Never Dies” in 2004.

If you appreciate what “The Gong Show Movie” delivers, then you must know about this film as well:

“Manos” Indeed!

Widely considered one of the worst films ever made, “Manos: The Hands Of Fate” has some competition….like this:

Yes, there are some wildly entertaining films that may not be critical favorites, but boy are they fun to watch! Read all about them there:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/10/06/manos-hands-of-fate-is-here-halloween-2015-celebrates-horrors-worst-directors-sex-fleshpots-4d-witches/

And let me know if you are going to take the wild “Gong Show” ride!

Say Hello To The Face Of Exploitation Cinema!

Someone asked me to explain the phenomenon of exploitation cinema – an era from the late 60’s to the mid-80’s when movies pushed boundaries and broke taboos…and resulted in some of the most deranged and entertaining films of all time!

Welcome To Times Square!

It all began in New York’s Times Square, at a time when it was more dangerous to be IN THE THEATER than it was to be on the streets!

Time To Talk About All Forms Of Movie ‘Sploitation!

These movie theaters in Times Square were open 24 hours a day, showing some of the weirdest films ever made!

“Exploitation” films were also known as “Grindhouse” films, because they played New York’s 42nd street theaters all day and night…look at what a seedy scene it was at the time:

You can take a trip down memory lane with a story I posted about this unique time in cinema…just click here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/11/23/sex-violence-grindhouse-have-a-purient-holiday-an-exploitation-gift-guide/

Hard to imagine that this is what Times Square used to look like – but it’s a part of movie history that has disappeared…except on home video and on demand, where these films are having a re-birth!

A “David Hasselhoff” Moment!

Here’s a look at the kind of films that were shown in Times Square in the 70’s and early 80’s…from the subtle to the ridiculous – and with David Hasselhoff too!

“Hello, Boner”! Time For Classic “Exploitation”!

Yes, there were recognizable stars in some of the more “mainstream” exploitation films of the era, including David Hasselhoff who starred as “Boner” is one of the more hilarious examples – movies with lots of topless girls, subtle sexual situations, mostly “R”-rated, or soft “X” – nothing too controversial, just good clean naughty fun like this:

The “Cheerleader” genre was silly, good-natured fun, with just enough skin shown to keep teenage boys flocking to the movies…here’s a good primer of the genre:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/02/19/cheerleaders-pom-pom-girls-david-hasselhoff-as-boner-cult-classics-rah-rah-rah/

These films could play drive-in theaters all around the country…not too extreme for rural audiences…

In the 70’s, it was up to the Europeans to give us a “harder” look at the genre, “art” films that featured lots of sex and violence – films that proudly celebrated being called:

HOT HOT HOT “SEX-Sploitation!”

Grindhouse theaters were inundated in the early 70’s with films from Europe that blew the doors off the buildings they were shown in: sex kittens like Lina Romay showed off EVERYTHING in every movie!

Romay made a series of films with her husband, Director Jess Franco, that were provocative, explicitly sexual and eye-popping!

One of their most notorious is “The Hot Nights Of Linda”, with the censored “banana” scene….which you can now see on a newly released blu-ray edition of the film…read all about it here:

Linda’s Shocking “Hot” Nights! Lina Romay’s Classic Sexploitation!

Not all films of that era from Europe were this “shocking”…which leads to the next “s-ploitation” genre known as:

“ART-Sploitation”!

What exactly is this? “Sinner” is a perfect example – “artsploitation” films came from Europe, beginning with the shocking film that started it all:

“I Am Curious (Yellow)” was brought up on obscenity charges, but when they won their case, the floodgates were open to a lot of wild films from Europe – these
movies were chock full of sexual situations and full nudity – but with social issues of the day thrown in as well…making it supposedly a more “artistic” endeavor….like this:

Meet Christina Lindberg, The “Queen Of Artsploitation!”

I have written about all of Lindberg’s films – this Swedish Star made some of the best “Artsploitation” films of the 70’s, like these:

Christina Lindberg was a huge star in the 70’s – Her most provocative movie, which Quentin Tarantino used as an inspiration for “Kill Bill”, was the classic “Thriller: A Cruel Picture” AKA “They Call Her One-Eye!”

Read about all of her amazing films by clicking on my story here:

Christina Lindberg Speaks! The “Queen Of Artsploitation” Bares All!

While Christina was nude throughout all of her films, the movies themselves tried to tell compelling, intelligent stories…THIS “S-ploitation” genre, however, didn’t bother!

Welcome To The Wacky World Of “Dwarf-Sploitation”!

Well, you knew it had to lead to this: one of the most exploitive movies ever released, thanks of course to the Europeans! Time to meet The Sinful Dwarf!

This movie has NO redeeming social values, and isn’t that why we are watching?

And now, the terrific home video company Severin Films is bringing this “Dwarf” back on blu-ray!

The new blu-ray includes a ton of special features, including a look at the cast and crew!

Of course, one of my favortie stories of all is the disappearing starlet of “Sinful Dwarf”, Anne Sparrow. It was her only film, and then she disappeared from movie screens forever!

This beautiful Actress bares all in the film, but also gives a brave, professional performance – and then she disappeared forever!

Read all about the mystery of Anne Sparrow by clicking here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/09/16/sinful-sex-kitten-anne-sparrow-the-mystery-of-a-disappearing-starlet/

These films in the 70’s made it to the US and helped open the door to a more explicit era in film…some wacky 70’s exploitation films, however, never left their country of origin – like these!

Time For Some “J-Sploitation!”

Welcome to wild and wacky Japan! The genre known as “J-Sploitation” dealt with Japanese sexploitation films – also called:

“Pink Films”!

These movies were about girls who got into trouble and had to fight their way out!

These films evoke a style like “Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” and are definitely worth checking out!

Read all about them here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/08/18/wild-japan-cinema-pinky-violence-amazing-cult-exploitation-madness/

If you think only countries like Japan can release disturbing films that call their own culture into question, you are wrong!

Hick-sploitation!

Yes, right here in the heartland of the US of A, your “Country Cuzzins” are ready to party!

These movies are called “hick-Sploitation”, and they usually deal with country girls down on the farm who are ready to “get down”!

It’s a genre full of haystacks, “aw shucks” dialogue, and lots and lots of nudity! See what these “Country Cuzzins” are up to by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/12/12/gator-bait-country-lovin-hillbilly-brides-sex-action-missing-teeth-hicksploitation-lives/

These films evolved into more mainstream fare like “Gator Bait” and “White Lightning” with Burt Reynolds…just good old boys having some fun…back in Europe however, things just got darker and darker…

Shoot Up Some “Drug-Sploitation!”

This genre of “S-ploitation” had a short run in the US, with serious films like “The Panic In Needle Park” with Al Pacino:

Junkies on the streets of New York have movie stars attached, while in Europe, heroin addiction was just another plot point in films full of sex and violence like this:

See more about these rough and tumble descents into heroin madness by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/07/11/virgins-from-hell-plus-dead-virgins-too-oh-and-hannas-hooked-on-smack-exploitation-lives-on/

As you can see, Europeans dealt with social issues in one way, in the US it was a bit more humorous…like this genre:

Rev Up Some Classic “Hog-Sploitation”!

Yes, biker chicks was the rage in the 70’s – tough girls who could kick ass and take names!

Here is a list of some of the best:

http://johnrieber.com/2016/01/04/sexy-chopper-chicks-naked-cycle-sluts-sex-violence-hog-sploitation/

And there is one genre I could never support:

“Nun-Sploitation!”

This genre was touched upon a bit when Raquel Welch played the sexiest “cleave-flaunting” nun of all time:

Yes, Raquel dipped her breasts into the “euro-sleaze” genre in a big way!

“Euro-sleaze” is a type of movie made in Europe that didn’t even pretend to have any socially redeeming qualities – but big stars would make them because there was money to be made!

Raquel Welch was a sexy nun in the “euro-sleaze” classic “Bluebeard”.

Read more about this cult Ricahrd Burton classic – by clicking here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/04/08/richard-burton-freezes-raquel-welch-bluebeards-classic-euro-sleaze/

So there’s a look at some of the wildest film genres ever produced – let me know your favorite!

Fishing With The Beatles!

Growing up in Seattle, I always heard the stories about how rock bands would fish out of their hotel room windows from the legendary Edgewater hotel!

As you can see the hotel is right on the water – and I always heard stories that The Beatles actually fished from their rooms when staying there – and it was true! Look at these amazing photos!

Yes, The Beatles enjoyed some down time when they visited Seattle in 1964 – and since the Edgewater Hotel is right on Puget Sound, they ALL really did go fishing!

These are just some of the fascinating pictures from “Beatlemania”, when the Fab Four would hold spirited press conferences in every city they visited!

The Beatles Know How To Throw A Punch!

Some of the most hilarious Beatles quotes came from these press conferences, like this one:

Reporter: “They think your haircuts are un-American.”
John: “Well, it was very observant of them because we aren’t American, actually.”

John’s acerbic wit wowed the press – along with Paul, George and Ringo as well…and they got to meet some of America’s greatest entertainers!

Yes, The Beatles Knew How To Take A Punch, Too!

According to a Facebook comment by Scott Mantz, this photo shoot was set up by Dezo Hoffman, the official photographer who joined The Beatles on their first US visit (when this photo was taken) — John in particular was SO humiliated by this, he didn’t speak to Hoffman for months!!

To me, the photos are hilarious, but if ANY ONE of The Beatles wouldn’t like this, it would have been John!

Ringo, on the other hand, didn’t seem to mind at all!

FILE – In this Feb. 18, 1964 file photo, boxer Cassius Clay lifts Beatles member Ringo Starr while the singers visited Clay’s camp in Miami Beach, Fla. Others from left are Paul McCartney, George Harrison and John Lennon. A few days earlier the British musicians had appeared for the first time on the Ed Sullivan Show. A week later, Clay would beat Sonny Liston and go on to even greater things as Muhammad Ali. (AP Photo)

These are pictures from 1964 when Ali was still known as Cassius Clay – and they are just amazing to me!

Great pics from The Beatles are always fun to see, perhaps none more so than the outtakes from the iconic “Abbey Road” shoot!

Yes, they still had fun, even when things weren’t going as well behind-the-scenes…all of their music videos and behind-the-scenes videos show sparks of camaraderies, all the way to the end…

If you want to see some incredible outtakes from the “Abbey Road” cover shoot, AND hear The White Album amp’ed up by a hundred, click on my story here:

The Beatles Remixed “White Album” X100! Beatles Abbey Road Greatest Outtakes!

One of the greatest documentaries ever is “Let It Be”, the story of the making of the album…

It was, of course, a disaster…John was sullen and alienated the others by bringing Yoko into the studio – at one point in a hospital bed! It created bad blood between them – but they rallied of course with their last live performance ver, from the roof of their office building in London:

I got my hands on an early VHS copy of the film, which was withdrawn from circulation…if you want to read more about this – and see some of the great live performances, click here:

Let It Be! The Beatles “Lost” Documentary! London’s “Live” Beatles Rooftop Concert!

And finally, some of their best songs were recorded during this time…and a couple are overlooked gems:

You can read some great trivia about John and Paul’s songs by clicking here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/01/26/the-beatles-forgotten-gems-john-lennons-monkey-mccartneys-primal-feeling/

Leave me a message and let me know if The Beatles did anything unique in your town!

RIP Garry Shandling!

The entertainment industry was shocked by the sudden death of Comedian Garry Shandling. It caused an outpouring of grief among some of the biggest names in the business, but for those who aren’t as familiar with Shandling’s impact on entertainment and comedy, here are some highlights from his career I wanted to share.

Shandling began his career as a writer on shows like “Sanford and Son” and “Welcome Back, Kotter”.

His breakout moment, like so many others, was thanks to the “King Of Late Night”, Johnny Carson.

Shandling made his standup debut on “The Tonight Show”, and he wowed Johnny, leading to incredible success. Here is an appearance on “The Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson in 1981:

As you can see, Shandling had impeccable timing, and hilarious jokes. Johnny loved him, and Shandling was for a time considered the leading contender to replace Carson!

Its Garry Shandling Show image

In 1986, he created “It’s Garry Shandling’s Show” for Showtime. This was a time when cable offered very few original shows, and Shandling’s unique approach to comedy was hilarious.

The show was a huge critical success, and was nominated for four Emmy Awards. Among the many groundbreaking aspects of the show was that Garry routinely broke the “fourth wall” and spoke directly to the audience during the show!

Here’s a promo for “It’s Garry Handling’s Show”:

The Brilliant “Larry Sanders!”

In 1992, Shandling turned his eye toward hosting his own late night talk show…not as a Host, but as the creator and star of “The Larry Sanders Show” – where he played a fictional late night talk show host!

“Hey Now!”

One of the most iconic lines in television has become “Hey Now!”, the catchphrase used by Larry’s on-air sidekick, Hank Kingsley…that part was brilliant played by Jeffrey Tambor…here is a great clip from the show when Larry asks Hank about the origin of the phrase!

Hank Kingsley is a “spot on” parody of Johnny Carson’s sidekick Ed McMahon – taken to it extreme. In fact, on one episode, Ed dropped in and the two sidekicks did a “Hey Now!” and “Hey-oooooh!” duet that was classic.

Here are some of Hank’s best moments from the show:

Rip Torn, Jeremy Piven and Janeane Garofalo were also members of the ensemble. Shandling was nominated for 18 Emmy Awards for the show and won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series in 1998, along with Peter Tolan, for writing the series finale.

Big name stars loved to come on the “fake” talk show, because they could show you what it was like behind-the-scenes. Here is a classic moment from season one when Robin Williams was a guest…in this scene, his guest appearance is marred by an off-screen fight between Larry and Hank:

“I Saw Your Balls”!

Legendary Comedian Carol Burnett also had a hysterical cameo…the set up was simple: she was appearing as a Guest, and came in early to shoot a skit…it didn’t go well – you see, Larry was playing Tarzan, and his outfit was a bit TOO revealing, as Carol reveals to Larry during a commercial break:

Shandling produced a “best of” DVD set that included a ton of great new material, and told candid stories about the show…it’s a terrific series that is worth seeking out!

During his 3-decade career, Shandling was nominated for 19 Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards, along with many other awards and nominations. He also served as host of the Grammy Awards four times and as host of the Emmy Awards three times.

The Kings Of Late Night!

I love this picture: Carson with his two “heir apparents”, Jay Leno and David Letterman, with a fictional late night Host between them! “Larry Sanders” was an insightful and hilarious look at the cut=throat world of late night talk…

In real life, it was even MORE ruthless! If you want to read more about the battle to succeed Johnny Carson as the “King Of Late Night”, click here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/04/07/bombastic-bushkins-fascinating-johnny-carson-book-late-night-talk-show-wars/

Shandling’s work will live forever as soon of the most hilariously inventive comedy ever made…RIP Garry!

“It Tastes Like Beef-Flavored Something. Beef-flavored Matter.”

Talk about a back-handed compliment! Time for one of my favorite reviews of all time!

A Face Only A Reviewer Could Love!

What can make a food reviewer look like this? Well, the title of my story gave it away, but if you’ve never seen one, get a look at this!

The Cheeseburger In A Can!

I love this so much!

Sold by a German outdoor supply company, this amazing blend of science and nature allows you to take a cheeseburger out for a hike, or an overnight camping trip!

Now of course, as funny as the can looks, you DO have to bite into it at some point – and you will get this:

Tasty!

There was a pretty funny review on The Onion’s website – including some good quotes about what the “Cheeseburger In A Can” tastes like…for example:

• “Oh, auuugh. It’s awful. Have these people ever had hamburger before?”

• “Boy, that taste really stays in your mouth, doesn’t it?”

• “That was so bad.”

• “I think it’s more the soggy bun than the meat.”

• “No, it really is the meat that’s the problem. Oh God.”

• “It’s like the Salisbury steak in a cheap TV dinner.”

• “It’s like Upton Sinclair nightmare bratwurst.”

• “It tastes like Spam. Spam, but chewy. The texture’s about the same.”

• “It is a little smushy. It’s spongy. I don’t hate it. I think I could eat it if it was hotter, and I could dip it in Ranch dressing.”

• “I cannot swallow this. It will not go down.”

• “It’s not quite meat, is it? It looks like freaky airline food.”

• “It tastes like beef-flavored something. Beef-flavored matter.”

• “It’s a really dense meat-like puck.”

• “When I first tasted it, it didn’t bother me, but it festered.” “Really? I gagged the second it hit my tongue.”

What else is there to say?

Well, there may be THIS! Here is the reviewer trying the “canned cheeseburger” – and boy, is he struggling!

I can watch this over and over…I have to give credit to the company that decided we needed Cheeseburgers anywhere and anytime…and I also have to give credits to the foodie minds who came up with this:

A “Fried Chicken Bloody Mary!”

This is one of the most hilarious things I’ve seen: an entire fried chicken served up in a Bloody Mary…and if you want pizza, well I have you covered as well:

I have to give big props to the folks who come up with this stuff…you can see it all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/08/08/a-fried-chicken-bloody-mary-the-worlds-wildest-bloody-marys/

Now, we started with a “canned cheeseburger”, so what else do you want in a can?

Hungarian Canned Bacon!

You can never go wrong starting with bacon!

Yes, our good friend bacon is also available in a canned version. And I see why it works so well – just stand it up on end, roll it up and slide it in! Now you have the goodness of bacon whenever you want it – just pop the top and unroll some deliciousness!

I can imagine taking a can of bacon along on my next camping trip to adding it to my cheeseburger in a can – once we have canned mayo, it’s all golden!

It’s hard to criticize canned bacon, which seems like a very normal canned food product…unlike THIS:

Hold Your Tongue!

OK, time to edge into wacky territory, and here’s an idea for you: canned sheep tongue!

Many cultures eat tongue, so it is something you will find on more progressive ethnic menus…beef tongue is eaten like bologna, so it’s not THAT unusual:

Well, after looking at ten pounds of sheep’s tongue, maybe it IS UNUSUAL:

Armadillo Meat!

Now, from the wacky to the bizarre, let’s take a look at other mystery meats coming out of a can soon:

Yes, you can keep a can of Armadillo at the ready, just in case you have the need – now you have the ability as well!

Creamed Armadillo On The Half Shell!

I can only imagine that if you want some Armadillo, but don’t have the time to “cream” it yourself, this is for you…and speaking of strange “creamed meats in a can”:

Creamed Possum!

I almost wish this was a joke – unless I am missing something, Possum doesn’t come to mind as a meat to eat in any way, especially creamed.

But, just in case this sparks some sort of cooking frenzy in you, I actually found a website that is all for you – here is a possum recipe!

http://southern.food.com/recipe/stuffed-roast-opossum-107969

Pork Brain In Milk Gravy – Hold The Cholesterol!

Time now to move onto a “smarter” meal:

Yes, if you need a week’s worth of cholesterol in a single day – with “milk gravy” no less, then I guess pork brains are for you! And here is a canned food product that doesn’t beat around the bush!

“Potted Meat Food Product!”

Hey, talk about “truth in advertising!” It’s a potted meat food product – there are many on the market, and this is NO knock against the quality of Libby’s version: it’s a product, much like spam, that uses lesser parts of an animal, and adds seasoning and spices…it’s mostly used on crackers as a sort of pate:

Among the ingredients: Mechanically separated chicken, pork skin, partially defatted cooked pork fatty tissue, partially defatted cooked beef fatty tissue, vinegar, less than 2% of: salt, spices, sugar, flavorings, sodium erythorbate and sodium nitrite.

Again, there is no knock against this type of food – it’s just a unique packaging style to be sure! And, to end on a very pointless note, I leave you with this:

Spotted Dick!

That’s right! Look it up! And yes, they sell it in a can!

STILL not enough for you? Then what about this new way to eat sushi!

Yes, sushi poppers! Sushi in a tube is close to food in a can, right?

Click HERE to read all about this amazing new food product!

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/19/the-future-of-sushi-behold-sushi-poppers/

Enjoy all of this unique food goodness – and remember to bite down hard!

I’m RICH!

It’s true, and I have the email to prove it!

I know, we’ve all had our “this is a sure-fire way to get rich” moment, but this email added just the right touch of hilarity – so I am sharing:

“In Vain To Another Man’s Favor!”

How can you not respond to such an emotional outburst? Here’s the paragraph that choked me up and raised my greed level.

The email was from, naturally, US Customs, and they need to inform me that they have a LOT of money to share with me…normally I never read these spams, but this one caught my attention – near the top of the note was this intriguing line:

“Mr.Thomas Allen is your Attorney and 53 years old and 4.3 inches tall, he is located at 0801 9th Avenue North California city. Mr. Thomas Allen. The Los Angeles Airport Customs said that if you the beneficiary has not comply under 24hrs that all your effort to receive your consignment trunk boxes will be in vain to another man’s favor.”

Yes, I am running the risk of having my consignment trunk boxes “in vain to another mans favor.” Even better, my Attorney is 53 years old and 4.3 inches tall!

That made me wonder: could he be a descendent of Weng Weng?

If you are unfamiliar with Weng Weng, he was the world’s greatest – and shortest – international action star!

He was a stud, too! See his movie credits and terrific trailers here:

Severed Flying Skulls! Weng Weng’s 3 Feet Of Fighting Frenzy! Karaoke Terror! Wacky World Cinema Awaits!

Now, back to my email, offering me a ton of money for a very low “administrative” fee:

I am to receive $15-million as long as I send $140 to cover the handling fees and administrative costs…hmmm…seems fair to me. I wonder what that amount of money looks like?

And as for my attorney: as the note stated clearly, my attorney is 4.3 inches tall…deal with it! That means I must discharge my current Attorney, who until now has worked doggedly for me:

And while you are considering things to deal with as you count your millions, deal with these HAIR STOCKINGS!

That’s right, if you have millions to spend, why not spend them on new “hair stockings” – see more of this REAL – YES TOTALLY REAL product here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/06/22/hair-stockings-see-through-skirts-asias-naked-fashion-trends-revealed/

IT’S ENOUGH TO MAKE YOUR HEAD DO THIS:

Yes, someone captured “exploding balloon heads”, among the many funny pictures I have found…check them out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/25/balloon-heads-hot-dog-coffee-beer-bottle-balancing-funny-pictures-on-parade/

And let me know if it’s time to get rid of my legal Counsel!

Welcome To Disneyland’s “Star Wars”!

OK, fans of Disneyland AND “Star Wars”, today is your big day!

The internet just broke a bit more as Disney unveiled a vision of their new “Star Wars” area at Disneyland! This is the image that was released, showing how the park will look when it is finished:

This image was the latest released by Disney to show off what is now under construction at Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

According to “deadline.com”:

“crews already have cleared the land on the site that once was Big Thunder Central, prepping the area for attractions that will include getting behind the controls of the Millennium Falcon via VR and more. The 14-acre project will be the largest “land” at Disney’s Orange County hub, and this artist’s rendering hints at what’s in store. The Rivers of America that were traversed by the now-docked Mark Twain Riverboat and the sailing ship Columbia will line one side of the Star Wars site.”

There is SO much fan fervor for this new area at Disneyland, although some Disney purists are concerned about the areas that were taken down to make room for the new area. I understand, being a lifelong fan of the park, but I understand that change is necessary at times…Disneyland fans are hoping that the park shows respect for the past as they blast off into the future…

Still, the new “Star Wars” area is going to be a HUGE boost to Disneyland’s popularity, and I for one cannot wait to see this come to sci-fi life, especially if there is a VR component, plus what we can assume will be great new thrill rides!

You can read the entire story here at Deadline.com:

http://deadline.com/2016/07/star-wars-disneyland-millennium-falcom-1201785112/

When I ran programming at G4, we had the first-ever coverage of a Comic-Con panel – which happened to be for a “Star Wars” project, and of course, our Host Olivia Munn was ready for action:

Olivia’s “Slave Leia” outfit also broke the internet, as well as fan boy hearts around the world…and we shot a bunch of fun stuff with her as well, which you can see here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/11/09/official-star-wars-vii-release-date-olivia-munn-as-princess-leia-bloopers-bacon-darth-vader-fans-galaxy-of-star-wars/

While George Lucas is no longer involved in the “Star Wars” franchise, you may be interested to know how he came up with the concept…and it all started with this guy:

Click here to read how Flash Gordon was the inspiration for Han Solo! Click here for the whole story:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/04/05/how-flash-gordon-created-star-wars-sam-jones-the-original-han-solo/

Leave me a message and let me know what you think of the plans for the new park!