The Trailer Park

What do you know, another new feature here at Cinematic Katzenjammer. Now, what's the first thing you usually see when it comes to a movie? The trailer of course. Sure, a lot of times those little two or three minute previews can give away far too much of the film's plot, sometimes even the ending, but trailers also build excitement, give you chills, and certainly tease the hell out of you. Here are some of my favorite ones of the past week. 

Sleepwalk With Me

Mike Birbiglia is a comedian more people need to know about. The guy is genuinely funny and his look on life is awkward, yet optimistic. His humor is real, his jokes are real, and everything about Bribiglia is relatable. Sleepwalk With Me is not only Bribiglia's film debut, but also his first time directing and writing. The film is actually based loosely on his own life and his struggles of becoming a comic, falling in love, and running into plenty of walls as a chronic sleepwalker. Personally, I cannot wait for this film as I have followed Bribiglia for years, waiting for the day he'd break out into film. While most stand-up comedians find themselves being cast in supporting roles or even forgettable cameos, Bribiglia's made his own movie and I can't be more excited or more happy for him. 

Oz: The Great and the Powerful

Call me pessimistic, but Oz: The Great and the Powerful really doesn't look that great. Sure, the visuals seem nice, but I can't help but wonder how tailor-made the movie is going to be for the 3D audience. And, have we not learned that terrific directors teaming up with Disney does not have the greatest track record lately? (Alice in Wonderland, Prince of Persia, Pirates of the Caribbean). Also, there are a lot of characters and names that come to mind when I think of James Franco, and powerful wizard is certainly not one I think of. It's even more disappointing knowing that the role was originally given to Robert Downey Jr., but he had to drop out due to scheduling issues. Even then, I do not think that Oz will be as great as this debut trailer makes it out to be, but don't think I'm going to be getting all excited about seeing it. Hell, I can only imagine I would look like a fool in a pair of ruby red slippers, and if that's the only way for me to get home after this adventure, I'll cancel my vacation in Kansas. 

Gangster Squad

Yes, this trailer premiered over a month ago, but it's deserving of every bit of attention. Once in a while, a film comes along that just reeks of cool and Gangster Squad is one of them. I think the trailer alone speaks for how damn good this movie's going to be, and when it throws in that stellar cast and the director of Zombieland, I can't help but get a little giddy. Not to mention, I'll watch any damn thing in the world featuring Emma Stone. And, because I am not afraid to admit it (we all know it's a stone cold truth), Ryan Gosling is one hell of a stud. After Drive, I can't wait to see him take names and kick a whole lot of ass in 1940s Los Angeles. 

Dirty Laundry

Dirty Laundry isn't a trailer as much as it is a short film. It premiered last week at Comic-Con as a fan made film for a character that hasn't quite found his niche in movies, even though his history and background provide incredible source material. I don't want to say too much without giving the clip away, but keep in mind it is rather violent. Be patient with it, as the ending is the best part.