J.R. Head is an actor and former Marine.
J.R. Head
Polanski, NAMBLA and Checking Our Moral Compass
by J.R. HeadWhoopi Goldberg said on The View it wasn’t “rape-rape.” No, it was non-consensual anal intercourse of a child. Are we so perverted we will excuse such conduct because the perpetrator is an “artist?”
With all the unpleasantness that’s been in the news lately (ACORN, Polanski, Jaycee Lee Dugard, etc.), I was reminded of a book titled “The Last Undercover” by my friend, fellow Marine, and Big Hollywood contributor, Bob Hamer. Bob spent twenty-six years in the FBI, all as a special agent working the streets, many of those years in an undercover capacity. He was the undercover agent in twenty administratively approved operations. Some of those assignments lasted a day or two others more than three years. He played such diverse roles as a drug dealer, contract killer, international arms merchant, degenerate gambler, and white collar criminal. By his own admission his most difficult role was playing a pedophile for three years as he infiltrated the North American Man/Boy Love Association (NAMBLA).
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First, let me say that “The Last Undercover” is absolutely riveting. Seeing inside an organization like NAMBLA, one that preys on children, through Bob’s eyes is enough to keep you up at night. However, as things have transpired over the last few weeks, I couldn’t help but wonder about the people on the periphery of such groups and individuals. For instance, I remembered the travel agent in Bob’s book that was more than happy to set up the NAMBLA members’ trip to have sex with children. Sure, he didn’t have sex with kids but, if he could make a few bucks off of others doing it, he was pretty okay with the idea. How about the lovely folks at ACORN? Setting up a brothel for underage prostitutes? Okay, let’s figure out the tax ramifications for such a venture. Then, of course, we have the folks that are defending the talented Mr. Polanski. (more…)
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‘Grateful Nation’ Debuts Tomorrow on ESPN2
by J.R. Head
On Saturday, October 3rd, a fantastic new show premieres on ESPN2.
“Grateful Nation is a unique and compelling outdoor adventure series that goes behind the scenes and into the field with American Veterans. Hosted by Airborne Ranger Tim Abell, this original unscripted program takes viewers inside the minds of wounded combat veterans and returns them to their traditional American hunting heritage.
Tim’s innovative interviewing strategy together with stunning HD videography launches Grateful Nation into a unique category that captures a whole new audience of sportsmen and patriots.”
The first episode of “Grateful Nation” follows actor and Army Veteran Tim Abell and Army Sergeant First Class Greg Stube on the hunt of a lifetime.
I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with SFC Greg Stube via telephone and was immediately struck by his eloquence. Greg has the unusual ability to talk about enormous concepts on a very small and personal level. I sometimes find it difficult to speak clearly about the ideas of duty and sacrifice. SFC Stube speaks of such things with deep understanding and with perfect clarity. He learned first hand and up close what these concepts are all about. (more…)
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Honoring September 11th: Serve and Remember
by J.R. HeadPresident Obama has designated September 11th as The National Day of Service and Remembrance.
Remember.
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Why You Should Read and Support Michael Yon
by J.R. HeadWhen I saw that Michael Yon had joined us here at Big Hollywood, I was overjoyed. This is a great opportunity to expand his audience and, frankly, everyone should read his stuff. Yon has been embedding with military units in combat for the better part of the last four years and has been bringing the ground-level truth to those that care to read it.
I can’t remember exactly when I first discovered his writings but it was at a point where he was disagreeing with the spin coming from the Bush White House regarding progress in Iraq. I was disturbed to have confirmation that things were not quite as we were being told but Yon’s critiques, while serious and undiluted, were constructive in nature. I could tell that he was supportive of the effort even though he sometimes railed against the execution of it. Michael Yon pulls no punches and I checked back often to see what else he had to say. Eventually, the network news would catch up and start reporting things that Yon had written about weeks, often months, earlier. This is a pattern that continues today. (more…)
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Interview: ‘Getting it Right’ with Captain Dale Dye
by J.R. HeadRecently, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing a man who has helped bring to life some of my favorite films, series and projects. Captain Dale Dye, USMC (Ret.) has enjoyed an incredible career in Hollywood as an actor, a writer and as the most recognizable military/technical advisor in the industry. He recently worked as the Senior Military Advisor on HBO’s upcoming World War II miniseries “The Pacific” (currently in post-production) and is preparing to direct his first feature, “No Better Place to Die.”
J.R. Head: Thanks so much, Dale, for taking the time to talk with me.
Dale Dye: You’re most welcome. It’s a pleasure to be anywhere talking about the business we love these days. Hopefully, things will loosen up a bit, we’ll all go to work and I won’t have time for this in the near future.
JRH: Well, I’m glad I caught you when I did. First, let me say that I’ve enjoyed so many of the projects you’ve worked on.
DD: That means a lot coming from a guy with a military background. The reason I work so hard at it is to ensure guys like you and millions of others who served get a fair shake from Hollywood. (more…)
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Troopathon 2009: A Friend in Hollywood
by J.R. HeadI just wanted to drop a quick note to all members of the extended military family: active duty personnel, veterans and those who stay behind to keep the home fires warm.
Thank you.
To those on active duty, I say thank you for your continued service. Many of you signed up knowing full well that there are two shooting wars going on. That takes a special kind of guts. Your performance in defense of freedom continues to be an inspiration to me, personally. Thank you.
To all the veterans, I remind you that your service and sacrifice have not gone forgotten. Whether you served in war or in peace, you had a hand in keeping America safe from some of largest threats in history. You also, by your very existence, kept other dangers from materializing. Thank you. (more…)
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Part 4: Interview with ‘Brothers at War’ Director, Jake Rademacher
by J.R. Head
Note: Part 1 of this 4 part interview can be found here, Part 2 here and Part 3 here.
J.R. Head: I felt that one of the most important things about the film was that it allows the folks that are left behind, the friends and loved ones, to get a glimpse of a soldier’s everyday life. I served during relative peacetime but, even for me, it was difficult to explain what my day was like to my girlfriend, to my family… They were always imagining something bad happening. And, let’s face it, peacetime or wartime, sometimes bad stuff happens. We train hard, there are accidents and sometimes people die but for the most part you’re just doing your job. I felt like “Brothers at War” gives folks a good look at what really goes on and allows them to relax a little bit. Y’know, there’s not, say, a mortar attack every five minutes.
“Brothers at War” Director, Jake Rademacher: It’s a great tool for a soldier to allow loved ones a window, a good look at what life is like for them during a deployment. (more…)
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Part 3: Interview with ‘Brothers at War’ Director, Jake Rademacher
by J.R. Head
Note: Part 1 of this 4 part interview can be found here and Part 2, here.
J.R. Head: Changing gears, (Executive Producer) Gary Sinise said of this film, “Brothers at War celebrates the courage and integrity of the American Soldier and the American military family. It is also a film about a man’s love and respect for his two brothers and his dedication to telling their story. A great film that I am proud to be a part of.” That’s got to feel good, coming from someone of Gary’s caliber.
“Brothers at War” Director, Jake Rademacher: Yeah, it was funny. I was invited to screen “Brothers at War” in Iraq for General Petraeus’ public affairs folks and a number of our warriors stationed over there. Upon viewing the film, Marine Lieutenant Colonel Loretta Vandenberg, extremely moved by “Brothers at War” said, “You need to get this to Gary Sinise. He’s a big supporter of the troops, you need to get him to present this film. Call him when you get back to Los Angeles.” I was like, “okay… do you have his phone number?” (more…)
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Part 2: Interview with ‘Brothers at War’ Director, Jake Rademacher
by J.R. Head
Cpt. Isaac Rademacher — Jake Rademacher
Note: Part 1 of this 4 part interview can be found here.
J.R. Head: Tell me about the time frame of the film. ”Brothers at War” was shot in 2005?
“Brothers at War” Director, Jake Rademacher: Isaac departs in 2004, I join him in August 2005, and events in Iraq and on the Home front go through 2006.
JRH: So, that’s pre-“Surge”. But one of the things I noticed from the film was the advancement that the Iraqi Army was making. I was encouraged by the individual efforts of people like [Marine] Staff Sergeant Allier and others to– (more…)
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Part 1: Interview With ‘Brothers at War’ Director, Jake Rademacher
by J.R. HeadNot long ago, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jake Rademacher, the director of the incredible Iraq War documentary, “Brothers at War.” What ensued was one of the more enjoyable evenings I’ve had in a while. Jake is an interesting fellow. I’ve seen him interviewed before and it seems that, when cameras are involved, he’s a much more subdued character. Sit down with him one on one and get a few cups of joe into him and all bets are off. He’s smart, funny, extremely passionate about his film and its subject matter — and the man talks fast. Very fast.
Cpt. Isaac Rademacher — Jake Rademacher
After some initial pleasantries (actor talk, a little sports, our mutual respect for Gary Sinise, etc.), we got down to it.
By the way, if you want to get a true feeling of how the interview was for me, try to read it very quickly.
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J.R. Head: First, let me say “Brothers at War” looks fantastic. You’re an actor. What was it like to make the transition to first-time director? (more…)
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‘Taking Chance’ Delivers Moving Tribute
by J.R. HeadHBO premiered “Taking Chance,” starring Kevin Bacon, on Saturday night. If you haven’t seen it yet, make time to watch it. ”Taking Chance” is unlike any Iraq War movie we’ve seen, thus far, in that it steers clear of any political message. I don’t mind telling you that I find that to be incredibly refreshing.
By the way, I realize that I’m a little late on this but, being just a regular schmo, I don’t get advance screeners of things. Consider this to be like talking to the buddy you haven’t seen since Friday.
Based on true events, the movie follows the experiences of Lieutenant Colonel Mike Strobl and is a moving tribute to PFC Chance Phelps, a 19-year-old Marine who was killed in battle in 2004. Even though the story follows LtCol Strobl as he escorts the body of this fallen Marine back to his family, it does not victimize Phelps. Further, it shows a side of America that I rarely see, living in Los Angeles. At every opportunity the movie takes the time to demonstrate the honor shown by fellow members of the military, as well as civilians raising hand to heart to offer respect. Not even the camera is disrespectful to PFC Phelps – he is more a symbol of all the brave men and women that we’ve lost in Iraq. (more…)
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Adrian Brody
by J.R. HeadI like him. Good actor. Gave a heartfelt shout out to the troops when he won.
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by J.R. Head
“…hope in our lives. [hold for applause]”
Darn.
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by J.R. Head
That jacket is awesome. Gonna get me one.
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by J.R. Head
I had the honor of interviewing the winner of next year’s Best Documentary Oscar recently. Stay tuned to Big Hollywood.
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by J.R. Head
It was a hell of a performance by Ledger. Good win.
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by J.R. Head
This guy’s Walken impression sucks.
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by J.R. Head
Hey! I can sing! How come I’M not up there?!
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by J.R. Head
Iowahawk is Crowder. Crowder is Iowahawk.
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by J.R. Head
“Orlando Bloom’s dad…” That was funny.
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by J.R. Head
Didn’t they have anything more form-fitting for Miss Beale?
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by J.R. Head
Another gimmick from Stiller. Shocker.
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by J.R. Head
Are they remaking the Addams Family again?
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by J.R. Head
I’m off to get a sandwich and to get this guy his “puffer”.
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by J.R. Head
Jen: Hi, Brad. You look well.
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by J.R. Head
I like this guy. The guy from “The Visitor”. He was good in that other movie. The one with Ben Stiller, the Arquette girl and the guy from “The Warriors”.
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by J.R. Head
RDJr. in “Tropic Thunder” = Fricken’ brilliant. Hope he wins.
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by J.R. Head
Is that Paul Rudd doing a character?
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