Two time BOTM winner Daniel won the Golden Igloo at the recent festival, and as shown in the past the festival has proven to crown the bait that wins BOTM on numerous occasions. Quentin Tarantino is definitely one of the harder directors to bait. D.W. was the closest to successfully bait a Q.T. bait with "Sixty Days". Could Daniel finally be the one to get Quentin his first Director Oscar? The bigger question is, could the guy who was the first to win BOTM twice also be the first to win BOTM three times? So far it looks like it but only time will tell, but one thing is for sure, if Daniel wins BOTM again, another BOTY win will most likely be givin to him as well. Congratz Daniel on the Golden Igloo win, and congratz to all the other winners as well.
Good luck to everyone in September!
Friday, September 7, 2007
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Update: I!'s 100 Posts, 100 Baits!
Hey guys, this is Michael. I am so happy with the turnout we have had with the Top 25 lists and Honorable Mentions. We are announcing the deadline as TOMORROW so if you have not sent a list, please do so, we really want to make this list last and special and it will mean a ton to Bait an Oscar history if you take part. We plan on releasing Part 1 of the Ceremony next Thursday or Friday and the ceremony will be in 10 parts leading up to the Top 10 as our 100th post!
Also a couple other notes...
- This is the only voting round of the Top 100, this isn't a nomination process this is voting for the winners, there seemed to be some confusion about that.
- Also, I don't know who is doing it, but the last two times we have run the Best Actor and Actress category in the polls we have gotten an abnormal amount of votes. I know when you go to a different computer you can vote again, but I really don't want to have to make it when you vote you have to sign a list, because if there were votes than people who signed the list then we would have to re-vote, which I'm afriad we might have to do because of whoever is cheating the system.
- If anyone is interested in previewing my possible September bait it would be much appriciated, I am in dire need of some feedback and I just need a push in the right direction.
If you have any questions at all you can always email me, or just leave a question in the comments section.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Zgamer's Analysis/Predictions On Films That Should Make The Top 100
Hey all, Zgamer here. I just thought I would give my two cents on the baits I think will be on the lists. Mind you, this is based on personal opinion. This is not a reflection on the ballots that have been sent to us. So here's my opinion on some of my favorite baits on the list:
-The Arabic Cafe- Maia's classic study on the nature and reality of terrorism. Directed by Mike Nichols and starring Naveen Andrews, Ben Kingsley and Jamie Bell.
Why it should make the list: Maia really knew how to write this bait. The plot is only one paragraph, but it goes so much deeper than that. Since it doesn't tell you how the story ends, it allows us to use our imagination to guess how it all turns out (which is always great for a bait). Thanks to her great press section, impeccable casting and great director choice, this bait seems to have all the right stuff to make it on the list. Plus, three Oscar wins usually helps a film like this. Maia's best work yet, followed closely by Bootleg.
What might hurt it: While the bait is great, it has been a year since its release, allowing enough time for many other films to steal its thunder. Also, the fact the contest has changed so much since that time may affect how people judge it.
-Once a Hero- Classic biopic on the late Christopher and Dana Reed. Directed by Bennett Miller and starring Brendan Fraiser and Maria Bello.
Why it should make the list- One of the few early baits to survive the evolution of the contest. The story is definately baity, given the type of genre it is and the person it covers (Hollywood loves stories about its legends). A great showcase vehicle for Bello and especially Fraiser. Plus, the cast and crew overall just fit a story like this.
What might hurt it: Pretty much the biggest obstacle is that it's outdated, simple writing style may turn off readers how are use to our more complex writing.
-iLife- Brian's satirical look at the future, where man's obsession for technology has become a serious problem. Directed by Terry Gillam and starring Joan Cusack and Robert Downey Jr.
Why it should make the list: It's definately a film that Gillam would do. The plot is very witty, with an all too true view of man's increasing dependence and obsession with technology. The pinnacle of Brian's big winning streak last year and still one of his best baits.
What might hurt it: The plot is still intact after almost a year since its release, but the cast is way too bloated by today's standards, thus it may affect how people judge it. Also, it might be a bit too quirky for some folks.
-Destiny- Harry's heartbreaking story of a boy dealing with his inner demons after the tragic suicide of a classmate. Directed by Pedro Almodavar and starring Rodrigo Noya and Penelope Cruz.
Why it should make the list: Harry's best work to date. It's a very personal account and you can see all the effort that Harry put into the bait everywhere. The topic is both intriguing and disturbing, thus giving the bait a very realistic touch. Probably one of the most emotional stories on the site. The cast and crew are also spot on.
What might hurt it: Unless people can't overlook the bait's several grammatical and spelling errors or some of it's somewhat preachy moments, I have no doubt this film will find a good spot on the list.
-A New Agenda- Danie's latest (and probably best) masterpiece detailing a man's trek to accomplish a list of events he and his wife made before she passed away. Directed by James L. Brooks and starring Carl Reiner, Parker Posey and Al Pacino.
Why it should make the list: Simply put, this is the ultimate James L. Brooks vehicle. With just the right balance of touching and hilarious moments, it really draws the audience into the very enjoyable scenario. Plus, it has one of the best casts assembled in a bait. Where else would you find a bait with Christopher Lloyd, Angela Lansbury and Louise Fletcher? No where, and that's why it's great. Plus, he has written one of the best Al Pacino roles I've ever read on the site (aided by the great and hilarious press section support for it).
What might hurt it: It's a pretty safe bet this will make the list. However, it may not reach a high spot due to the fact it is one of the most recent baits on the list.
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Got any predictions or opinions? Feel free to comment here. And remember, the best way to make sure your favorite baits make it to the list is to keep on voting. We won't be keeping the submissions open forever you know.
-The Arabic Cafe- Maia's classic study on the nature and reality of terrorism. Directed by Mike Nichols and starring Naveen Andrews, Ben Kingsley and Jamie Bell.
Why it should make the list: Maia really knew how to write this bait. The plot is only one paragraph, but it goes so much deeper than that. Since it doesn't tell you how the story ends, it allows us to use our imagination to guess how it all turns out (which is always great for a bait). Thanks to her great press section, impeccable casting and great director choice, this bait seems to have all the right stuff to make it on the list. Plus, three Oscar wins usually helps a film like this. Maia's best work yet, followed closely by Bootleg.
What might hurt it: While the bait is great, it has been a year since its release, allowing enough time for many other films to steal its thunder. Also, the fact the contest has changed so much since that time may affect how people judge it.
-Once a Hero- Classic biopic on the late Christopher and Dana Reed. Directed by Bennett Miller and starring Brendan Fraiser and Maria Bello.
Why it should make the list- One of the few early baits to survive the evolution of the contest. The story is definately baity, given the type of genre it is and the person it covers (Hollywood loves stories about its legends). A great showcase vehicle for Bello and especially Fraiser. Plus, the cast and crew overall just fit a story like this.
What might hurt it: Pretty much the biggest obstacle is that it's outdated, simple writing style may turn off readers how are use to our more complex writing.
-iLife- Brian's satirical look at the future, where man's obsession for technology has become a serious problem. Directed by Terry Gillam and starring Joan Cusack and Robert Downey Jr.
Why it should make the list: It's definately a film that Gillam would do. The plot is very witty, with an all too true view of man's increasing dependence and obsession with technology. The pinnacle of Brian's big winning streak last year and still one of his best baits.
What might hurt it: The plot is still intact after almost a year since its release, but the cast is way too bloated by today's standards, thus it may affect how people judge it. Also, it might be a bit too quirky for some folks.
-Destiny- Harry's heartbreaking story of a boy dealing with his inner demons after the tragic suicide of a classmate. Directed by Pedro Almodavar and starring Rodrigo Noya and Penelope Cruz.
Why it should make the list: Harry's best work to date. It's a very personal account and you can see all the effort that Harry put into the bait everywhere. The topic is both intriguing and disturbing, thus giving the bait a very realistic touch. Probably one of the most emotional stories on the site. The cast and crew are also spot on.
What might hurt it: Unless people can't overlook the bait's several grammatical and spelling errors or some of it's somewhat preachy moments, I have no doubt this film will find a good spot on the list.
-A New Agenda- Danie's latest (and probably best) masterpiece detailing a man's trek to accomplish a list of events he and his wife made before she passed away. Directed by James L. Brooks and starring Carl Reiner, Parker Posey and Al Pacino.
Why it should make the list: Simply put, this is the ultimate James L. Brooks vehicle. With just the right balance of touching and hilarious moments, it really draws the audience into the very enjoyable scenario. Plus, it has one of the best casts assembled in a bait. Where else would you find a bait with Christopher Lloyd, Angela Lansbury and Louise Fletcher? No where, and that's why it's great. Plus, he has written one of the best Al Pacino roles I've ever read on the site (aided by the great and hilarious press section support for it).
What might hurt it: It's a pretty safe bet this will make the list. However, it may not reach a high spot due to the fact it is one of the most recent baits on the list.
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Got any predictions or opinions? Feel free to comment here. And remember, the best way to make sure your favorite baits make it to the list is to keep on voting. We won't be keeping the submissions open forever you know.
Monday, September 3, 2007
Festival Nomination Predix
Well, the festival nods should be up within the week. As proven with last month's winner, a festival win does great things to a bait's buzz. So let's analyze the competition that has submitted baits. (keep in mind, I (Bryce) have not read any of these baits, and these thoughts are based on early reviews and just shots in the dark)
"Bandito Express"- The bait of the year winner got a great review from D.W., although, as D.W. states "The only question is, will the voters go for a bloody western?". The festival has proven in the past not to hold as much judgment against unbaity projects as the oscars do (i.e. Batman:Scars Of Tomorrow, was nominated for the top prize at the festival, but was snubbed for a best picture oscar). The contest hasn't had many westerns (I think Bloody Trail and Recoil are the only ones, but correct me if I'm wrong) but that should only gain more buzz for the bait, as it could feel like a breathe of fresh air for the voters.
"Tapestry"- Didn't get a glowing review on Pat's blog, but Musicals have a past at doing relatively good (Rehab!, Behind the Show). Pat also reveals "This bait does something that no other musical bait has done before. Ian integrates the songs into the actual synopsis, putting them in the places where they would be found in the film's story. This new method allows for greater understandability and emotional impact". Although he goes on to say it didn't work for him, could the festival voters actually favor the new unique writing style?
"Grosse Pointe"- Based upon the short lived Tv show, past baits based on Tv Shows (Sex in the City) have proven to not do well. Pat goes on to reveal " By the end of the synopsis, you say, "This should be a TV show" and then you realize that it was. This fact makes the bait less believable as a film, which is the same problem that other TV translations face in the contest and in the actual world." But overall Pat gives the bait a good review, mostly praising it's cast. Could the fantastic casting equal it into a golden igloo nod?
"To Dwell In Evil"- While the bait did get a great review from Pat, religious subjects have proven not to be oscar friendly in the past (Passion of the Christ). Although, this is the first biblical bait in the contest, and voters could end up being a lot more open minded than the real life oscar voters. Tony, himself, also has a great deal of buzz coming off the success of The Winter Sun. The fact that he has been snubbed more times than any author could persuade the voters to vote his way.
"The Second Coming" Another religious bait, although this one seems more down to earth. The cast also looks amazing, using stars that haven't been used much like Matt Damon and Adrian Brody, and directed by Ridley Scott. I think in the long run people will compare it to To Dwell In Evil (which is also directed by Ridley Scott) and in the end only one will possibly get a golden igloo nod.
"Extradition"- Once again Pat utilizes a cast and crew that aren't used a lot in the contest. It stars Mark Whalberg, Mark Ruffalo, Uma Thurman, and Harrison Ford, with Edward Zwick as the director. The story sounds very baity, and Pat is always known to bring his A game to his baits.
"The Red Menace" This is one of James last bait, so just that fact could persuade voters. Although women leading baits have shown not to do as well in the bp category as it does in the best actress category.
"Down in Heaven"- The story is in a "duel" format as he puts it, focusing on a drug addict, and a Afghan boy's mission for martyrdom. The story could end up to complicated for voters, or it could end up as a masterpiece.
"The King of The Undead"- Didn't get great reviews in the Tournament, and animation baits haven't been nominated for the golden igloo in the past. But zGamer could easily turn the bait around into another one if his hits.
"Cherry Blossom"- D.W didn't get much love in August, but the fact that he has stated this is a more personal bait make me excited. Personal baits have proven to be much more interesting, and successful in the past (Silence).
"Shamus & Shamus 2" although I doubt Shamus 2 has any chance (Sequels have proven not to be nominated in the past) but Shamus (1) got some great reviews in the tournament. Could the new version equal a golden igloo?
"They Shoot Horses, Dont They ?" Tyler wasn't able to get this in for the august competition, but could the new version from an extra month of working on the bait make it a smash hit?
Other baits to watch for (sorry but I couldn't gather much more info on them (other than the obvious))
The Blue Max
Scout's Honor
Project Sin
Forged By Fire
Isaac's Storm
Knights of the Old Republic
Exposed
My final prediction that will be up for the Golden Igloo are (remember, this is basically a shot in the dark, I wouldn't put money on any of these):
- The Second Coming
- Bandito Express
- Cherry Blossum
- The Red Menace
Good luck to everyone, and remember this is based on nothing, and I haven't read any baits so anything could happen. Good Luck!
"Bandito Express"- The bait of the year winner got a great review from D.W., although, as D.W. states "The only question is, will the voters go for a bloody western?". The festival has proven in the past not to hold as much judgment against unbaity projects as the oscars do (i.e. Batman:Scars Of Tomorrow, was nominated for the top prize at the festival, but was snubbed for a best picture oscar). The contest hasn't had many westerns (I think Bloody Trail and Recoil are the only ones, but correct me if I'm wrong) but that should only gain more buzz for the bait, as it could feel like a breathe of fresh air for the voters.
"Tapestry"- Didn't get a glowing review on Pat's blog, but Musicals have a past at doing relatively good (Rehab!, Behind the Show). Pat also reveals "This bait does something that no other musical bait has done before. Ian integrates the songs into the actual synopsis, putting them in the places where they would be found in the film's story. This new method allows for greater understandability and emotional impact". Although he goes on to say it didn't work for him, could the festival voters actually favor the new unique writing style?
"Grosse Pointe"- Based upon the short lived Tv show, past baits based on Tv Shows (Sex in the City) have proven to not do well. Pat goes on to reveal " By the end of the synopsis, you say, "This should be a TV show" and then you realize that it was. This fact makes the bait less believable as a film, which is the same problem that other TV translations face in the contest and in the actual world." But overall Pat gives the bait a good review, mostly praising it's cast. Could the fantastic casting equal it into a golden igloo nod?
"To Dwell In Evil"- While the bait did get a great review from Pat, religious subjects have proven not to be oscar friendly in the past (Passion of the Christ). Although, this is the first biblical bait in the contest, and voters could end up being a lot more open minded than the real life oscar voters. Tony, himself, also has a great deal of buzz coming off the success of The Winter Sun. The fact that he has been snubbed more times than any author could persuade the voters to vote his way.
"The Second Coming" Another religious bait, although this one seems more down to earth. The cast also looks amazing, using stars that haven't been used much like Matt Damon and Adrian Brody, and directed by Ridley Scott. I think in the long run people will compare it to To Dwell In Evil (which is also directed by Ridley Scott) and in the end only one will possibly get a golden igloo nod.
"Extradition"- Once again Pat utilizes a cast and crew that aren't used a lot in the contest. It stars Mark Whalberg, Mark Ruffalo, Uma Thurman, and Harrison Ford, with Edward Zwick as the director. The story sounds very baity, and Pat is always known to bring his A game to his baits.
"The Red Menace" This is one of James last bait, so just that fact could persuade voters. Although women leading baits have shown not to do as well in the bp category as it does in the best actress category.
"Down in Heaven"- The story is in a "duel" format as he puts it, focusing on a drug addict, and a Afghan boy's mission for martyrdom. The story could end up to complicated for voters, or it could end up as a masterpiece.
"The King of The Undead"- Didn't get great reviews in the Tournament, and animation baits haven't been nominated for the golden igloo in the past. But zGamer could easily turn the bait around into another one if his hits.
"Cherry Blossom"- D.W didn't get much love in August, but the fact that he has stated this is a more personal bait make me excited. Personal baits have proven to be much more interesting, and successful in the past (Silence).
"Shamus & Shamus 2" although I doubt Shamus 2 has any chance (Sequels have proven not to be nominated in the past) but Shamus (1) got some great reviews in the tournament. Could the new version equal a golden igloo?
"They Shoot Horses, Dont They ?" Tyler wasn't able to get this in for the august competition, but could the new version from an extra month of working on the bait make it a smash hit?
Other baits to watch for (sorry but I couldn't gather much more info on them (other than the obvious))
The Blue Max
Scout's Honor
Project Sin
Forged By Fire
Isaac's Storm
Knights of the Old Republic
Exposed
My final prediction that will be up for the Golden Igloo are (remember, this is basically a shot in the dark, I wouldn't put money on any of these):
- The Second Coming
- Bandito Express
- Cherry Blossum
- The Red Menace
Good luck to everyone, and remember this is based on nothing, and I haven't read any baits so anything could happen. Good Luck!
A Note on the Top 100 by Zgamer
Lately, we've received baits that were not numbered 1-25. Please rank your favorite baits this way so we can score them accurately in the final round. We will not just take a list, they must be specified which ones are your favorites. For those who sent them like this, you may respond with an updated list.
Votes Wanted!
Hey guys, after the last couple of posts I wasn't quite sure if you realized that there is only 1 round of voting, THIS ONE! We only have about 5 ballots and most of those are the panel that constructed the Top 150 list. Once again, PLEASE send in your votes to baitanoscar@yahoo.com and we'll get the Top 100 list. This is a part of Bait An Oscar history that I would like everyone to be a part of, please comment below if you plan on sending in a ballot and then once you have sent in your ballot.
Also, I am still in desperate need of 1 or 2 panelists for the festival. It makes it a lot easier on the whole process if I am not a panelist, but I still can be (most of the time, it turns out for better results too!). Please comment below or speak out on the forums. I really do not want to end the festival because every month I have to go searching for panelists and I don't want to have to continue to do that. Keep in mind as a panelist your bait will still be in consideration for awards!!!
Also, I am still in desperate need of 1 or 2 panelists for the festival. It makes it a lot easier on the whole process if I am not a panelist, but I still can be (most of the time, it turns out for better results too!). Please comment below or speak out on the forums. I really do not want to end the festival because every month I have to go searching for panelists and I don't want to have to continue to do that. Keep in mind as a panelist your bait will still be in consideration for awards!!!
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Clips of the Top 100
I'm not sure if you guys read this on the last post, but we are allowing authors to send a short clip of their baits that are included on the nominations list. It shouldn't be any longer than the clips we've been sending to the Oscar ceremonies. If the bait makes it, your clip will highlight the segment featuring the bait. We think this would be great for giving us a glimpse into what your bait may look like as a film. If you wish to include one, send it to baitanoscar@yahoo.com . It would really be cool.
Also, remember to keep sending in your ballots. Your votes count in deciding the best baits of the Bait An Oscar contest. So hop to it.
Also, remember to keep sending in your ballots. Your votes count in deciding the best baits of the Bait An Oscar contest. So hop to it.
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