I've seen Grindhouse!!!

Wow.

I do believe my ass got handed to me.

I echo the sentiment of others, that Planet Terror feels more Carpenter-esque (especially Rodriguez's excellent score) than '70s grindhouse but that makes it no less enjoyable. I thought Jeff Fahey's BBQ joint owner was a terrifically quirky character.

As for Death Proof, I found it to be a different animal altogether. I've read comments that it's a bit too talky for its own good, and that's a valid point; however, it never felt like I was watching a series of boring monologues. Death Proof is a diametric opposite to the over-the-top mayhem of Planet Terror, and when the final third of the movie starts, it's white knuckles all the way. Kurt Russell is great as always; Stuntman Mike is a crazy psychopath and Russell is full of maniacal glee throughout.

And the fake trailers? Edgar Wright's Don't was the best faux trailer; the packed crowd I saw this with loved every moment: the "scratchy print", the "commercials", the "motion picture ratings" and every "missing reel". The 3 hours and 15 minutes flew by.

This weekend, you can see a kick-ass double feature that'll make you rediscover how much fun going to the movies can be...or you see a founding member of N.W.A. in a remake of Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House.

Grindhouse is an exhilarating experience, one I can't wait to enjoy again.




(Plus I received a free Grindhouse poster.)