The holidays are right around the corner, and whether you'll be celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or "Holiday" (when pastafarians celebrate their deity, the Flying Spaghetti Monster), chances are you're starting to look for gift ideas. StageBuddy film writers Jefferson and Nick compiled this gift guide for movie lovers, which includes some perfect suggestions for that adorable film geek in your life, whether they're the kind who wants to binge watch, read or enjoy walking tours.
If your beloved film geek is the kind who aspires to be a famous critic in his or her own right someday, there's no more perfect study than this comprehensive anthology. Containing over 150 reviews and essays from over 80 critics in a collection that spans almost an entire century, it's a wonderful introduction to the legendary likes of James Agee, Pauline Kael, Roger Ebert and A.O. Scott, among many, many others. A veritable treasure trove of information, this is an essential read for anyone who loves film and the history of its critique.
Not only does this exquisite box set come complete with all 62 episodes of the addictive drama and over 55 hours of revealing special features, it also comes with a whole host of awesome extras. "No Half Measures", an exclusive two-hour documentary that chronicles the filming of the final eight episodes. A 16-page booklet written by creator Vince Gilligan. A Pollos Hermanos apron. Oh, and all of that comes packaged inside a replica of the barrels Walt buried his money in. As Jesse would say: "Yeah, bitch!"
These collectible hardcovers are sure to thrill the hearts of super-nerds everywhere. "85 Years Of The Oscar" traces the entire history of the Academy Awards from their inception in 1928 to the present. "Guillermo Del Toro Cabinet Of Curiosities" reveals sketches, notes, interview text, commentary and annotations from the bizarrely brilliant mind behind such films as "Hellboy", "Pan's Labyrinth" and "The Devil's Backbone". "The Wes Anderson Collection" is stuffed with never-before-seen photographs, artwork, and conversations between the filmmaker and critic Matt Zoller Seitz. Sure to delight fans of the auteur's unique indie style from such films as "Moonrise Kingdom", "Fantastic Mr. Fox" and "The Royal Tenenbaums".
The latest film from the Coen Brothers ("No Country For Old Men", "O Brother, Where Art Thou?") hasn't even entered wide release yet, but it's already been receiving plenty of buzz from the festival circuit. Sure to rack up Oscar noms come awards season, this film tells the story of an aspiring singer in 1960's Greenwich Village. Produced by legendary musician T Bone Burnett, this captivating soundtrack is full of beautiful folk tunes performed by the movie's stars, including Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan and Justin Timberlake. Also included is a never-before-released version of Bob Dylan singing his song "Farewell".
If your film geek happens to live in the Big Apple, treat them to the gift that will keep on giving: a membership to the Museum of the Moving Image. For $75/year, members get free admission to the museum galleries (located in Astoria), as well as a host of other benefits: unlimited free screenings; discounts for specially-ticketed previews, panel discussions and special events; 15% discount at the Moving Image Store & Café; discounts at neighborhood restaurants and businesses; and discounted tickets to select movie theaters. The museum is entirely dedicated to the history and evolution of filmmaking, with both interactive displays (like a sound effects booth) and a revolving door of visiting exhibits (like a recent one on "Breaking Bad"). Screenings at the museum range from new releases to revival screenings (like "2001: A Space Odyssey" or "Suspiria"). Panel discussions include the likes of an upcoming Q&A with "American Hustle" director David O. Russell.
Everybody on Earth knows someone who's a "Star Wars" fan. The iconic franchise continues to be one of the most beloved in film history, even with some crummy prequels muddying the waters. Thanks to ThinkGeek.com, you can make your friends and family feel like part of the movie with these awesome "Star Wars" hoodies. The site offers lots of cool clothing options, but these sweatshirts are just too good to pass up. How can anyone pass up the opportunity to look like everyone's favorite bounty hunter, Boba Fett? You can also choose from a Stormtrooper, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, and Princess Leia.
While a membership to the Museum of the Moving Image is a terrific gift for NYC residents, what about those who are just coming by the Big Apple for a few days? With On Location Tours, you can give your out-of-town guests a sense of the rich cinematic history that our amazing city holds. For only $43, the general tour will sweep you across Manhattan showing off locations from hit shows and movies like "Glee", "I Am Legend", and "Spider-Man". You can also choose from specialty tours such as the "Sex and the City Hotspots Tour" ($49) or "The Sopranos Tour" ($49).
Perhaps your hypothetical book worm friend already has a complete book collection, but he doesn't have anything to protect it. Why not get them some wolves to stand guard? "Game Of Thrones" fans will recognize these noble beasts as the Stark family sigil from the hit HBO series based on the books by George R.R. Martin. These 8' tall, 6 pound bookends are more than just a means of keeping your hardcovers from falling over. They are a source of bragging rights. Your friends think they are bigger "Game Of Thrones" fans than you? Show them these bad boys, and instantly be the object of their envy.
Film fans love to show off their cinematic obsession, so why not give them a chance to literally cover their walls with movies. Posteritati is a NYC shop where you can buy rare movie posters. Some of their products can be quite pricey, including an original "A Clockwork Orange" poster being sold for $450. But there are lots of lower priced items to choose from, all of them unique and a must-have for collectors. David Lynch fans might like this $45 Japanese poster for "Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me". Classic horror aficionados will positively love this Belgian poster for Vincent Price's "The Fly". If you're unsure what exactly they might like, just get them a gift card and let them choose for themselves.
