This sounds like a movie that I’ll actually pay money to go to a blacked out building full of strangers and set in the dark and watch. Those movies are few and far between. . . EDITOR
from Los Angeles Times
By Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times Film Critic
August 23, 2012, 3:05 p.m.
Frank Langella is masterful as a lonely curmudgeon who rediscovers his purpose in life with some high-tech help.
Everything about “Robot & Frank” is as unlikely as it is irresistible. Charming, playful and sly, it makes us believe that a serene automaton and a snappish human being can be best friends forever.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of this Sundance prize winner is the easy way it blends the impeccable old-school acting of Frank Langella with the youthful independent sensibility of a pair of first-time filmmakers, writer Christopher D. Ford and director Jake Schreier.
Though most indie filmmakers gravitate toward stories about the agonies of being under 30, old souls Schreier and Ford have made a film that deals, in the most good-humored way, with age, vulnerability and the need to always be of use in your own life. . . . Read Complete Review
from IFC
Posted August 16th, 2012, 2:08 PM by Brian Jacks
It’s surprising to think that one of the most humanistic films of the year co-stars a machine, but that’s what you get with Jake Schreier’s new movie “Robot & Frank.” Legendary actor Frank Langella plays Frank, an elderly grump in the near-future whose children (Liv Tyler and James Marsden) worry constantly about him as he schlubs his way through his twilight years. Hoping to get his dad’s life back in order, his son orders him a robot (voiced by Peter Sarsgaard), a digitally-powered unit designed to function as a butler and caretaker in one. Initially resistant to his new addition, Frank — a “retired” jewel thief — quickly realizes that his robot may be good for more than just fetching glasses of milk.
Call-In Commentary: Watch the “Robot & Frank” trailer with director Jake Schreier
Distractions: Join Oscar Benjamin on The Hour of the Compassionate Wolf! (w/audio player)
Oscar Benjamin
We want to welcome Tha Jackal back to the pages of THEI. He’s been a very busy guy and I hope after the little coaxing I performed today he will find time to post to his personal column here on THEI. Looking for more thought’s from the Jackal’s head. . . EDITOR
From Tha Jackal’s Head 5/31/2013
Like to listen to music? Soundtrack themes? How about show tunes?
Well this show might be up your alley! Mr Oscar Benjamin is the leading host on the PSN Radio network when it comes to music.
He’s one heck of a nice guy also…. and I, Tha Jackal, [ “[Inside] Tha Jackals Head” ] as a fellow host on the network, would like to give a special shout out to one of the original shows on the network.
A Show like no other. The Hour of the Compassionate Wolf brings you a nice blend of all sorts of music, and stories from a world known photographer. He is not only a Professional photographer but also a writer, columnist, radio host, a fan of life and a man who is willing to manifest his dreams!
“What a unique paradox it is to write about yourself. On the one hand if we stress our virtue then it appears that we are in league with Narcissus himself! On the other side of the same coin if we nitpick all our failings then take the risk of wallowing in morose self-pity! It is my belief that man(and by extension-this man) is a fallen angel upon which he tries to redeem himself by incredible acts of kindness, courage and astonishing accomplishments of sheer beauty.
“Touching upon our dual nature is the fact that many of us are seduced by an inexplicable desire to cause great destruction and cruelty upon ourselves, others and our world! By understanding this fact-you will come to understand yourself and who am I in time!” . . . Oscar Benjamin
Check out one of his episodes on the player below, and make sure to listen live to his show every Tuesday at 1am! Only on www.psn-radio.com