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X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
Fantastic fun, really recommend seeing this title!
There have been other lengthy reviews written on this, so I shall keep my opinion short and to the point.
I watched this with my 11 year old grandson and we both thought it was brilliant. Plot could be hard to follow and you would really have had to have seen most of the other X-Men movies as other posters have rightly pointed out. Also you really need to concentrate, but the time passes so quickly during the movie, the story really moves at a cracking pace but that urgency only adds to the excitement. Some terrific actors but many were not used to their full potential I thought (although this does not really impact on the film).
I enjoyed it being set in the 70s so had a laugh at the decor and clothes of that era, it being when I was young(er).
As always new characters with new abilities/powers emerged, and really top notch visuals and production values. The robots that mankind could have built (the sentinels) were so scary!
Brilliant, we both loved it and would easily watch again.
The Third Man (1949)
A masterpiece of British Film Noir, possibly a bit old fashioned for younger viewers?
The Third Man is an example of British Film Noir and was recently voted the greatest British Film of all time. It would not have received my vote as such however. One of my major issues was with the sound-track. At times, I found the music overly-loud and intrusive. That being said, it was different.
The other issue I had was with the character of Major Calloway, (played by Trevor Howards) playing his usual role as the stiff-upper lipped Englishman. I often find the acting to be quite unnaturalistic in noir movies, over dramatic and sometimes featuring really unconvincing characters or sometimes, almost caricatures. Case in point, the jolly Austrian haus-frau near the start of the movie and the afore-mentioned Trevor Howards character.
The film features Joseph Cotton as Holly Martins, who plays a somewhat naive American pulp western writer. He is invited to post-war Austria, which is divided into four by the victorious allies, by his friend from high school, Harry Lime (Orson Welles). When he arrives, he finds that Limes has been killed in a car accident under suspicious circumstances. The movie traces what happens when he decides to play amateur sleuth to find out what really happened to his friend.
It turns out that Harry was a black marketeer who, it is implied, is responsible for causing deaths by supplying watered down penicillin. So the over-curious Martins finds out some unpalatable truths about his old friend. The plot is complicated further by Limes actress mistress, a Czechoslovakian who fears that she will be deported to Russia if it is found out she is not Austrian. It was Harry Limes who got the forged papers for Anna (played by (Alida Valli). Martins also sees four shadowy figures meet on a bridge and eventually it turns out that the third man out of the four from both the accident and the meeting on the bridge, was in fact Harry Lime himself.
He was not dead, but faking his own death in order to avoid taking responsibility for his criminal actions.
I won't rehash much more of the plot here but instead move onto my other observations about the movie.
There was quite outstanding cinematography provided by Robert Krasker, which won an Academy Award. There is a really nice scene near the start of the film, set on a spiral staircase, in which dialogue between Holly Martins and an old building porter (Paul Hörbiger) is the first Martins finds out that his friend Harry has been killed in an automobile accident.
I also loved the way the scenes in the sewers were lit and shot, very dark and atmospheric. It is to the sewers that his friend appears and disappears when Holly finally discovers he is still alive. I am sure the metaphor here is pretty obvious.
My favourite line from the movie has to be atop the Ferris wheel.
Harry Lime "Don't be so gloomy. After all it's not that awful. Like the fella says, in Italy for 30 years under the Borgias they had warfare, terror, murder, and bloodshed, but they produced Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and the Renaissance. In Switzerland they had brotherly love - they had 500 years of democracy and peace, and what did that produce? The cuckoo clock. So long Holly".
After seeing that Lime has no regrets about his crimes, Holly decides to help the international police trap Harry. Harry being a slippery character, manages to elude them all down the sewers and it ends up it is Holly who ends up shooting his old friend, as he also no longer trusts him.
The scenes just before the denouement, although to my mind, sometimes pretty clichéd, with men all standing about really grim and suspicious looking in the gloomy streets are again, very nicely done for the time.
There is much to admire in the movie, it being way ahead of it's time in some ways, the scenes of a bombed out Vienna, the shadows everywhere, like the shadows that were still being cast by WWII and the on-coming threat of the cold war. A vast city, often wet and damp looking, which appears almost entirely empty, adds to the air of mystery. The scene in which Welles first appears from the shadows of a doorway is one of the most famous in movie history. The camera is often tilted off the horizontal axis to help portray the sense of lurking danger and foreboding in the city at that time, a time when desperation drove people to highly questionable and criminal activities when often there was no choice. However, it seems clear that Harry was simply making profit out of the misery of others.
Although not intended as a historical document, it can also be appreciated in a historical context. Cities all over Europe were lying in ruins and the repercussions of the war were still being keenly felt.
I enjoyed the stylistic feel of the piece and can appreciate why some people love the movie. However I just was not too turned on by the plot or most of the characters, apart from Harry, who despite being the villain of the piece, I much preferred to Trevor Howards Major Calloway. There literally was something about Harry, which was almost likable and one could see why Anna loved him, even though he was a rat.
Love the bit at the end when Anna, Harry's ex, whom Holly has just killed, totally ignores him as she walks past him. I am left wondering what exactly he expects to happen here (it is a credit to the writing that a romance does not develop between the two) and also why he lights a cigarette and throws it away without taking a single puff. As an aside, I noticed that although a lot of cigarette's were shown during the movie, I don't recall seeing a single one being actually smoked!
Control (2007)
Lacks depth, but some great moments.
As usual, my review is posted years after the actual film release. However, no less valid because of that. Sometimes years have to pass to get over the initial hype of a movie and that can make them easier to review. There have been oh so many reviews written about this movie, some have valid points but are overly long and therefore, I will try and be brief.
The film is beautifully shot in black and white, exquisite cinematography.
It doesn't feel like a traditional 'rock star' bio-pic, not enough sex and drugs for that! Musically, it is genius. The fact that it is actually the actors singing and playing instead of Joy Division is very impressive. Sam Riley does a perfect job of portraying Ian Curtis on-stage. Having never met Ian Curtis off-stage, I have no idea if he was really as ineffectual in real life as he appears in this movie. He just didn't appear to have any real drive or passion. Perhaps we are supposed to think this is the depression that causes this? I can't say I came away from watching with any real insight into Ian Curtis, I still wouldn't be able to say what really made him tick. (Oh and a confession, I found Samantha Morton's portrayal of Deborah a total bore).
If you aren't a fan of Joy Division and don't know the story this film won't enlighten you. The other members of the band are reduced to extra's and you really don't have a clue who they are (unless you have prior knowledge).
This is really quite a flimsy movie, not much substance to it. I did enjoy it, it does not glamourise suicide as others have suggested. It is such a waste of life. This movie does not really explain why Ian Curtis committed suicide. If you are looking for answers and a more in-depth look at Ian Curtis and Joy Division, look elsewhere.
That said, it is the best bio-pic I have seen this year, so far.
Black Swan (2010)
Black Swan, the most puzzling movie I've watched this year so far.
I am going to attempt to make this short (and I hope, sweet) to help you make up your mind whether to watch this movie. Or if you are like me and only read reviews after watching a movie, just putting in my tuppence worth. Not sure what that is in other currencies. Not even sure what it is in decimal coinage.
At time of writing there are over 800 reviews, so it's unlikely that anyone is going to want to trawl through all the other reviews! I know I didn't.
So read mine instead, it is much less complicated than the other 800 odd reviews!
To the movie:
TIGHT BUNS: There are are a lot of TIGHT BUNS in this movie. Now I personally like to think that the plethora of shots of TIGHT BUNS represents the suppressed sexuality of some of the characters. Others, with less time on their hands to dwell on such matters, may just think that the TIGHT BUNS are to keep a dancer's hair out of our face. Now I am not sure if our American cousins know what a bun is, but it is the type of 'up-do' we see the dancers hair in.
CAMERA ANGLES: If like me, you are a media studies student/film-maker or indeed, a nerd,you might be interested in the use of different camera angles. There are plenty of shots from behind the lead character, showing you the protagonists perspective. Lots of different camera angles, combined with the use of lots of mirrors added to the whose crazy ambiance of the movie. Personally, it gave me lots of ideas for my next project. (Not saying I'd use the same ones, just gave me ideas).
NATALIE PORTMAN: She has certainly done her homework on this one. I'm thinking she should have maybe ate her homework too! She clearly didn't eat for quite some time. She is SO skinny and looks like a ballet dancer, all cheeks and rib-cage. A perfect choice for the lead. Did she deserve an Oscar? Looks like a pretty intense project to be involved in. I know she done a fair bit of the dancing herself, although just how much is hotly debated. However, not by me and not here.
DRUGS: There are scenes of drug-taking in this, but if they're buying E that only lasts 4 hours they are getting ripped off big-time.
THROWING UP: Multiple shots of Nina throwing up, no explanation given. Guess we are to assume that all ballet dancers are anorexic.
EARRING FIDDLING: There are a lot of scenes in which Natalie and other characters in the movie fiddle about with their earrings. I've no idea what this signifies or it may be something akin to the aforementioned TIGHT BUNS.
MAKE-UP AND COSTUME: Two points here. The make-up and costuming in the movie and indeed the general 'feel' of the movie is quite sumptuous. However, do ballet dancers do all their own make-up and costuming? Seems unlikely. How do they get the back of the corset type things tied on their own. Just a thought.
CGI: Some nice CGI effects to show the extent of Nina's mental breakdown are really quite cool.
PLOT: First thought when movie ended was, "there was a plot?" Of course there is a plot, but it is dense and probably best not to think about it or you too will end up obsessed and crazy. In essence, you too will have a breakdown like Nina.
This movie was confusing, creepy, sexy, crazy, wild and the ballet details fascinating. It is a closed world to us outside it. Was Nina crazy from the outset? Was Lily (Mila Kunis) her rival in the movie, even real? I have read all kinds of theories about this movie, but really you can put your own interpretation on almost every aspect of this film or even the whole movie, if you so wish.
Was this a review? Not in the traditional sense, more my musings, also why try and compete with over 800 reviews? If you like your movies to leave you thinking, watch Black Swan. It was (almost) perfect. Yes, you should watch it and make up your own mind. Oh and yes, that is paraphrased from the last line of Black Swan.
Get Him to the Greek (2010)
Quite a surprise!
There have no doubt been loads of reviews written on this board already on this title, so I will keep this brief, not go over the plot (as there are plenty of others with the time and patience to do that) and just give my honest opinion on first viewing.
I really enjoyed this film, it was hilariously funny in parts, quite touching in others and there was a message contained in the film if you cared to look. That message being, in my opinion, that celebrity can be over-rated, but who honestly can say, hand on heart, that they aren't even slightly jealous of the celebrity life-style? Certainly not me. Oh the other message would be, do what makes you happiest.
That slight digression aside, a quick word about the cast. I was pretty amazed at how good an actor and singer Russell Brand is, even though I am a fan of the guy. Still wasn't expecting him to be such a good actor. Alright, basically I just think it is Russell playing himself if he was a rock star instead of a highly famous comedian/actor/writer etc. Still he was very good in it as was the guy who played his 'minder' for 3 days, sorry don't know the actors name, but they played off each other brilliantly, especially in the threesome scene.
The biggest surprise for me was probably what the biggest surprise was for everyone else, that Sean Combs was so funny as well. Well done to him and really everyone in the cast for the funniest couple of hours I've spent in a while. (Oh and his wife in the movie, Jackie Q, doing her videos, so like Katy Perry as well).
Think the cast must have had a blast doing this and it shows through to the movie.
Really good movie, didn't over-analyise it as you can see. I'm just saying it see for a good laugh and some surprising turns from people you somehow expect to be more serious. Had a great time watching it! Don't trust the reviews who say this film is not funny, they must have a sense of humour by-pass. Now pass me a Jeffrey and if I can't handle anything in my life now I only need to think of Furry, furry carpets!
The Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call - New Orleans (2009)
Bad Lieutenant:, Good Movie
This is a very entertaining movie, mainly down to Nic Cage's excellent, wildly over the top performance as the titular Bad Lieutenant. I have saw the original, but it was so many years ago I can't compare the two. I didn't know before watching that it was directed by Wernor Herzog but I wasn't in the least surprised by that, as this movie is one trippy, wild ride.
Set in New Orleans, in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. This shows a cop, recently promoted to lieutenant, going off the rails. He has a back problem and is addicted to drugs. Initially, it is for pain relief, then his drug use becomes an everyday, almost casual occurrence.
The plot of the movie is almost over-ridden by Cage's performance as a cop gone bad, who has almost no scruples. He just goes after what he wants and his methods are unconventional to say the least. He stops couples who are coming out of clubs, searches them for drugs, then keeps the drugs for himself. He also persuades a colleague who is working in the 'property' department to steal drugs for him.
As well as the drugs, his personal life is pretty screwed up. His father is an ex-cop, who is an alcoholic, but is on the wagon, whilst his step-mother drinks beer all day. His girlfriend is a prostitute (played by Eva Mendes, who is also addicted to drugs.
There are some surreal moments in the movie which I really enjoyed. There is a fabulous scene in which two invisible (to everyone but Cage) iguanas are singing "Please release me" and another shot in which the soul of a gangster is shown dancing about.
As there are so many reviews for this movie already, I have foregone summarising the plot to concentrate on the movie making skills of Herzog and the acting skills of Nicholas Cage when he is let loose. I know that Herzog is proud of the fact that he never uses storyboards and positively encourages improvisation and this is shown to great effect in Bad Lieutenant, Port of Call New Orleans.
Cloverfield (2008)
Cloverfield - Beware big scary monsters!
THIS MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS - YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!
This movie is told from the point of view of a small group of people who are initially being filmed at a going away party for one of their friends. However the party is soon ruined by what at first appears to be a natural disaster but is in fact, a monster attack. A monster is attacking New York, a huge scary monster. The guy behind the camera keeps on filming whilst all this madness is going on around him. Personally I would be too busy running away to keep on filming, but I digress.
I have heard this compared to the Blair Witch Project in terms of the hand-held camera work throughout, but as I have not saw the aforementioned I cannot comment on the similarities or otherwise. I have to say that the camera work did not distract from the plot, but instead worked as part of it.
The relatively unknown cast do a great job of depicting a small group of people caught up in events that they can't escape from. The special effects are excellent and the suspense and tension derived from not knowing quite what is going on applies to both the characters in the movie and the audience.
What I liked best about the movie was the fact that there was no escape from the monster. Just when our small group of people think they have found an escape route, they are outdone by the sheer enormity of the beast.
This relentlessness on the part of the enemy is terrifying and in the end, none of the group survives. Fortunately for us, we don't know or care enough about the characters for that to be a problem.
Kick-Ass (2010)
Absolutely amazing fun, kicks ass!
Wanted to see Kick Ass and after reading some of the reviews about how shocking it was, I just had to see it for myself. Some reviewers in the UK concentrated on the Hit Girl character. They seemed to forget she was character in a movie and there was some moral outrage over her.
I like to judge movies for myself and bad reviews don't put me off going to see a movie. I had waited ages to see Kick-Ass, it had been out for a while but the theatre was packed.
This is an amazing movie, exciting, interesting, very original script, brilliantly executed and also very funny. There were many laugh out loud moments and many other awesome moments. The actors, mostly unknown, apart from Nic Cage do a fantastic job.
The real star of the show is New York, it provides a perfect backdrop for the action. Did I mention a cracking soundtrack? Well, it has that as well.
My partner and I both loved the movie and we don't often agree on which movies to see. We left the theatre on a high, both of us being throughly entertained. There has to be a sequel! For a great night out, I would recommend this movie.
Sex and the City (2008)
Plot disappoints, the frocks do not!
It has been four years since SATC left the small screen, so the question in my mind was would it live up to the hype on the big screen? I would answer yes and no (not because of an on-going argument between me and my imaginary friend) but because I am still undecided. I may yet remain undecided. In fact, re-reading this, I can see that I am in at least two minds about it.
The women are four years older than when we last saw them in the series and without being unkind, they look it. Don't get me wrong, I am glad that the actresses are a bit more mature and that they don't look botoxed and pumped full of silicone. They all sported very thin figures for the movie, yet in both the TV show and the movie they are often seen eating. Mind you, plates of what looked leaves and grass and the dish de jour, sushi are all regularly featured. To my mind, diets like this would suit rabbits and cats, but regular women? I think I will pass on that.
The women's stories have moved on a bit. Carrie (played by SJP) is happily living in unmarried bliss with Big (Chris Noth), whose real name happens to be John James Prescott. I don't think it takes much imagination to figure out where the name Big came from originally. (Big car, big bank account, big
ego you dirty-minded people). If it was because he has a big penis, we never found out in this movie. Most of the sex and nudity is provided courtesy of Miranda Hobbes (Cynthia Nixon) and her husband, Steve (David Eidenberg).
Charlotte Yorke (Kristen Davis) and her balding, fat (but nonetheless rich and successful husband) Harry are living happily ever after adopting a little Chinese girl. Samantha (Kim Cattrall) has moved to LA to manage her lover Smith's (Jason Lewis) career as a movie star. She still finds the time to jet back and forth on a regular basis to New York to be with her friends.
Without wanting to give too much of the plot away, did the idea translate well to the big screen? Yes, in that the gorgeous fashions can be drooled over in even greater detail. Yes, the soundtrack was pretty groovy too. Oh and Sam's new neighbour, Dante, showering in the buff looked, well, big on the big screen.
I thought the movie was a bit lacking in the humour of the TV shows. Although the show was ground-breaking when it hit the airwaves, is there any so called sexually taboo topic that hasn't been discussed in great detail left? On the evidence of this movie, there is not. Or maybe it is because they are all in stable (more or less) relationships that the dirty, funny, sex talk is not the main topic up for discussion any more.
Don't get me wrong, there is a very funny scene when Sam takes Miranda to task for letting her pubic hair grow wild and free. Au natural might be OK in colder climes like Britain when you are practically guaranteed that no-one (including your fella) will catch so much a glimpse of your naked body for nine months out the twelve. However, if you are sunbathing you really don't want to look like you sporting a fair bit of foliage down there.
The movie probably ticked all the right boxes for SATC fans, break-ups and make-ups, some sex and nudity, high fashion, New York (only the nice places), shoes, fabulous apartments, women who have it all. So yes it worked in that sense. It did seem to drag a bit as a movie (and the main story of Big not turning up to him and Carrie's wedding was no big surprise). Never fear though, all turns out for the best in the end.
So it is not exactly intellectually stimulating, but then nobody would expect it to be so. To me, the main theme of the movie should be the over-riding friendship between the four central characters. Which begs the question, why oh why was Jennifer Hudson introduced as Carrie's PA? She seemed totally out of place and I know I am not the only person to wonder what the hell her purpose in the movie was. Perhaps to illustrate that true happiness can only be acquired through the acquisition of your own Chanel/Fendi or whatever the label of the moment is.
I must admit that although the conspicuous consumption did not really bother me in the series, it actually made me very uncomfortable in the movie. I can assure all you guys reading (if any) that not all women are satisfied with enormous wardrobes and a shoe collection to put Imelda Marcos to shame! We actually require some intelligent conversation (and it doesn't always have to revolve around feelings either).
Oh and one final rant. Come on, the preparations for the wedding between Big and Carrie were outrageous. I especially hated the bit when SJP paraded around in white gowns. Call me old-fashioned (and I'm not) but is it not considered inappropriate to wear a white gown to your wedding if you a)are over a certain age b) you lost your virginity over two decades ago c)the fact that your husband to be is on his 3rd marriage? Having said all that, I couldn't help but wonder, should they consider making a SATC II? My answer would be a resounding no. I was pleased I have caught the movie so that I could catch up with the women. Now, with hindsight, I wish they had left us with the great memories of the series.
(Oh but I was so pleased to hear that 50 is the new 40, I'll raise a cosmopolitan to that)!
Le Cinquième Élément (1997)
A Big Ba-da Boom Movie
The Fifth Element, directed by Luc Besson has to be one of the few movies that I can watch time and again. It is such a multi-layered movie, which works well on many levels. It is part sci-fi, part thriller, part action, part comedy but ultimately it is a love story. It is such an unusual movie, it is almost impossible to compare to any other.
The story is set in the not too distant future in an incredibly crowded New York. The visuals of the city are superb, traffic drives in lanes around the skyscrapers as all the inhabitants have taken to living and working high above the city streets which are uninhabitable due to permanent, thick smog. Korben Dallas (Willis) is driving his taxi when suddenly a semi-naked woman (Milla Jovovich) who has leapt from a ledge to evade police, comes crashing into his taxi from above.
The woman starts pleading with him in a totally incomprehensible language for him to help her escape. At this point, their mutual understanding of each other is the phrase "big bad-da boom". Korben decides to save Leeloo (a short version of her real name, Leeloo Minai Lekarariba-Laminai-Tchai Ekbat De Sebat) and soon he is off to the Pleasure Planet on a mission to save the Earth from destruction. It transpires that Leeloo is a supreme being, genetically designed to save earth, along with the elements of fire, water, air and earth. She is the Fifth Element. When these forces combine, the threat of the annihilation of earth will be over.
The story moves along at a cracking pace, never letting up. It is filled with excitement and unforgettable scenes and moments. This movie offers a tremendous amount, it is visually stunning, the colours leap off the screen, the special effects are tremendous - there is just so much to marvel at. From the crowed traffic flowing in lanes around the skyscrapers, to aeroplanes that can fly at light speed, to the Phloston Paradise resort, to the robotic bartenders. The extraordinary costumes, designed by Jean Paul Gaultier, adds to the 'wow' factor of the visuals. There are explosions and fight scenes too, all of which add to the excitement.
Phloston Paradise, a holiday resort in space, is the venue for a very unusual act in the form of the mysterious diva. The diva is an exotic blue alien who puts on a fantastically different operatic show, definitely one the highlights of the movie. The diva is killed just after her performance and Korben (Willis) finds the stones which represent the elements inside her. Now it is a matter of getting all the elements, plus Leeloo together and escaping from the villains (Gary Oldman as Zorg and aliens know as Mondoshawan) and Earth is safe from evil once more. All the actors do a great job. Bruce Willis is at his best playing a wise-cracking, slightly cynical part-time air cabbie who has recently retired from the military but has been drafted in to save Earth (and what better man for the job?). Gary Oldman as the baddie has never been madder than in this movie, Ian Holm plays his usual shy, bumbling, somewhat incompetent character as a priest who specialises in the Fifth Element and Chris Tucker has to be seen to be believed as the most outrageous, OTT (and often very annoying) character you will ever see. Watch out for Tricky and Lee Evans in a couple of minor roles.
Milla Jovovich is the best actor in this movie, she puts in an excellent, edgy, exciting performance. How many other actresses would manage to look incredible dressed in strips of bandage with orange hair and blond roots, babbling incomprehensibly for a large part of the movie (in a 'divine' language) and yet still retain credibility and believability? Oh and boy can she kick some ass when the need arises. She manages to portray a creature of immense power, who is at the same time, very vulnerable, very human. A stunning performance from Ms Jovovich.
I can't end without mentioning the humour of the film and the outstanding ending which I guarantee will have you on the edge of your seat, if not holding your breath!
I think the film was so exciting and different because it didn't have the same constraints as a Hollywood movie. There was a more relaxed attitude and a greater willingness to take risks. The Fifth Element is as innovative and intriguing now as it was when first released in 1997. This movie is fun, hugely entertaining, totally different and a movie which, if you enjoy it, you will watch time and time again and never become bored with.
What higher recommendation can there be than that?
Garden State (2004)
Great movie, funny and sad at the same time.
Caught this movie for first time tonight. It was excellent, being both funny, touching and the plot and characters were brilliant. Even Natalie Portman (who I ain't such a big fan of) was good in it. Maybe it's because she's a bit older, but her acting has certainly improved since V for Vendetta.
Zach Braff (JD out from Scrubs on TV) directed, wrote and starred in the movie. Maybe 'starred' is the wrong word in this context, as all the actors (many of whom had familiar faces, if not names) were equally good. Thinking on it a lot of the actors I had seen before on TV comedies, Rachel's dad, from 'Friends' was in it. Again, playing a doctor (is this guy typecast or what. I could go and look up his name no problem, but would anyone care? I think not.
It was very funny in parts, the relationship between the two leads doesn't feel forced or hurried and is believable. It makes some very important points about the importance of friends and family. The direction is very good, it can't be easy directing yourself, so well done Zach. You can really feel the characters dilemma and empathise with him.
The people in the movie where very real people, the actors made you feel as though they weren't acting (always a good thing). I loved both the friendship between the lead and his best friend and also the relationship between the best friend and his mother. It was great to see a woman over 40 in a movie with attitude.
Recommend you see this movie, would appeal to ages 18+ mainly, either sex.
V for Vendetta (2005)
V for Very Good
I saw this movie when it was realised in the UK last year. I knew in advance that is was based on a comic novel, but I did not let that put me off! In my opinion, this would be a good movie for the disinterested in politics younger generation. There seems to be relatively few young people who are concerned about the gradual erosion of our freedom and civil liberties in this country, for example, the introduction of ID cards, the paternalistic government which tries to become involved in every aspect of a person's life and, more worryingly, the gradual erosion of our basic freedoms under the guise of protection for the ordinary citizen. Unfortunately, in this vision of the future, it soon becomes unclear who are the bad guys. Any voices of dissent are brutally disposed of. The government will protect you from all those who are out to get you, but at an exceedingly costly price. The erosion of our freedom.
Rant over! This movie addresses some of the above points. My only problem was that I felt it was over-simplistic, perhaps because it was aimed at a younger and largely uninformed audience.
To move on to the film itself, I cannot deny that it was pretty exciting, in particular the explosions made for a visual treat. Hugo Weaving was terrific as the masked vigilante. It can be no easy feat for an actor to play a whole role covered in a mask and yet still come across as a subtle and multi-layered character. Natalie Portman made an OK Evey, I did not think she was fiery enough for the role, her big contribution seemed to be getting her head shaved for a scene in the movie. Some of the cast were caricatures, especially John Hurt, the leader of the party who had totally taken over the UK. A far better character was the policeman played by Stephen Rea. A character struggling against upholding laws he knows are wrong, but eventually he sees the light.
Basically the movie warns against being complacent when the government insists they are doing things for 'your own good'. Things are not always black and white and a country like Britain, where 'freedom' is somewhat taken for granted today, could, given certain circumstances turn into a police state.
In summary, exciting but simplistic and unlikely to stir adult mature debate on what constitutes freedom in Western Civilisation.
Ray (2004)
Inspirational
Watched this on DVD last year. What an inspirational film. Ray Charles overcame the obstacles of being poor, black and blind. In addition he saw his younger brother die from drowning in front of him (he wasn't born blind, he became blind at the age of about eight). *
This movie doesn't gloss over the less savoury aspects of Ray's life - he was a womaniser and a heroin addict for a long time. However he was also the first black musician to refuse to play to segregated audiences during the 1960s when the struggle for equality between the races in America was at its height.
Due to his refusal to play to segregated audiences, he was banned from the state of Georgia for life. This ban was finally lifted in 1985 when he was given the freedom of the city and the state of Georgia adopted 'Georgia' by Ray Charles as its state anthem. (I have since heard that this untrue and he wasn't banned from the state).
It was relatively common during this period for musicians (particularly jazz artists) to be involved in using narcotics, especially heroin. (Not much change there really). Ray Charles successfully detoxed from heroin and lived for another 40 years without using it again.
This is an honest, sometimes brutal portrayal of a tortured man finding his salvation in music. You don't have to be a Ray Charles fan to appreciate this movie.
*There are some parallels here between Ray Charles and Johnny Cash. Johnny Cash also watched his brother die when he was about 8 or 9, from a horrible farming accident. Both men were outstanding musicians, both men were unfaithful when on the road and both had heavy drug habits. Ray Charles heroin and Johnny Cash Benzedrine and other 'uppers'. In another twist Joaquin Phoenix watched his younger brother River die in front of him from an overdose of heroin and cocaine (a snowball).
Ying xiong (2002)
Beautifully entertaining
I wasn't sure what to expect of a Chinese marital arts movie, but this was truly superb. The choreography was outstanding, the fight scenes were handled with grace, elegance and breathtaking stunts. It was an equals opportunity movie, there are women fighting as well. I had the idea that marital arts movies would be bloody-thirsty and probably gory, but not at all.
I don't know how accurate the story was historically, but I thought the film gave a fascinating insight into ancient Chinese culture, a civilisation that existed a thousand years ago.
A few of the actors were familiar, Jet Li, Maggie Chung and Ziyi Zhang. The actor who played the Warlord was, for me, one of the highlights of the film. Excellent production values and a very unusual plot-line (full of twists and turns) make this movie entertaining for all.
Broken Arrow (1996)
Absorbing thriller
Not sure why John Travolta's character goes nuts in this movie, or if he's always been that way and has covered it up. Must say he makes an excellent 'bad guy', the kind of baddie you actually like. He's also in great shape in this movie (as is Christian Slater). The female lead is also excellent.
This movie has JT and his crew of excellent hand-picked cohorts steal a couple of nuclear warheads (for profit, what else)? It's then up to his ex-friend played by Christian Slater to stop him ably helped by a park ranger of all things played by Samantha Mathis.
The movie moves along at a fast pace and is full of action and excitement. I didn't talk all through it. John Travolta is absolutely excellent in this movie and is undoubtedly the star. There are some plot holes, but suspend your disbelief and you're in for a couple of hours of non-stop entertainment.
Red Eye (2005)
Stylish and entertaining
An interesting film, for the most part set on an aeroplane. The two main protagonists are actors who are not big names (as yet) Cillian Murphy, an Irish actor and Rachel McAdams. This is a thriller directed by Wes Craven, the man responsible for the 'Scream' franchise.
At first the movie tricks you into thinking that the characters are going to end up romantically involved - a clever ploy to lead the viewer in the wrong direction. It makes what happens next all the more exciting.
This movie passes a few hours in an entertaining way, cleverly building up the tension. The thing that stood out for me the most was the kick-ass heroine. That woman can certainly fight! This makes a change from the usual wimpy women that feature in most movies.
Cillian Murphy makes an excellent 'bad' guy, switching from a normal, personable guy to someone you wouldn't want to meet in a dark alley.
There is a bit where the female lead is so desperate to escape the baddie that she rams a pen into his throat. This is a bit of nitpicking, but slightly unbelievable that he can jump about after receiving this serious injury with no problems. (It's also a bit gross, but I soon recovered).
That aside the movie is worth seeing for the kick-ass heroine alone!
I went back to edit this review solely as when I wrote it, the 'baddie' played by Cillian Murphy, was not very well known. Since then he has moved on to bigger movies. I recently saw him in Inception and he's a great actor, and I have to confess a fine looking man.
Failure to Launch (2006)
Very entertaining
Although this movie is billed as a 'romantic comedy' and it does contain both romance and comedy, it is far more touching and complicated than first appearances would suggest.
The plot premise - that there is actually a job that exists for the sole purpose of getting single men of 30+ to move out of their parent's home is slightly flimsy. I wonder if such a career exists (and if so, what the pay is like).
A big surprise for me was that SJP was not Carrie. If this proves anything for me it is that she is great actress. The character of Pamela that she plays is light years away from Carrie. She appears younger, funkier and more fun! Her and McConaughey have good chemistry together. The supporting actors were all very good. With Pamela's eccentric roommate being a character I thought was great. However, it is Sarah Jessica Parker that makes this movie memorable. She sparkles throughout and although this is comedy, she is brilliant acting out the scenes which are darker in tone well.
Some good laughs, some pathos and some sadness. Some outstanding set pieces, like when they are on a yacht and he unfolds a beautiful flag or a scene in which Matthew communes with a dolphin, could have been unbearably gooey - but due to a lightness of touch, they are genuinely touching. Of course the lovers inevitably break-up only to be re-united, in a convoluted way, by their friends and relatives. The re-union is watched on a laptop by their friends and eventually a whole coffee shop, that was fun! A real-life soap opera within a movie.
This would make a great date movie, not too in your face and something I feel both sexes could identify with. Leaves you feeling light-hearted, perfect entertainment for a Saturday night in front of the box with your other half as well if you are already taken.
Alien Resurrection (1997)
Just not that interesting!
Have just watched this movie on TV and have to say it wasn't exactly memorable. Winona Ryder's performance was very weak, Ripley has become a parody of a 'strong' woman now.
I agree with another contributors post, the aliens, although quite gruesome aren't scary anymore as we have seen them so often now. Familiarity breeds contempt in this case.
The makers just don't know when to quit when they are ahead - this was one of those times. 'Enough already' and 'overkill' are a few words the guys in suits want to learn.
Can anyone explain to me just how that large alien got sucked out into space through that tiny hole in the window? The women didn't get sucked out into space, nor did they run out of air. I'm no scientist but it seems to me that this would be impossible.
Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)
A beautiful movie
This was a beautiful movie - beautifully shot. The cinematography is absolutely superb. You feel transported to a time and place you have never before imagined. Colours and textures leap off the screen. It does an excellent job in clearing up western misconceptions of what a Geisha was, an artist rather than a courteasan. It does show you a whole secret world, which it has to be said is devoted entirely to the comfort and delight of men. It highlights the very limited choices available to Japanese women during this era. That aside, the images from this movie will stay with me for a very long time. I found the book heavy going and gave up after a few chapters, but think I will give it another chance after seeing this movie.
I thought perhaps that it was a film that would appeal mainly to women, however my husband also sat glued to the screen during it. I think this is mainly because it is just so different from the usual Hollywood fare.
Futurama: Where No Fan Has Gone Before (2002)
Hilarious!!
This episode contains one of the funniest and cleverest plots I have ever seen in an animated series.
It would appeal to all Futurama fans and maybe even convert a few Star Trek fans. (Not to mention anyone with a sense of humour).
Absolutely brilliant. I had to laugh further when I read that Matt Groeing claims never to have watched an entire episode of Star Trek. The depth of knowledge he exhibits regarding Star Trek means that he shown his colours as a true ST fan! The jig is up Matt.
Almost every member of the original cast plays their own voices and it is such a thrill to see that they are so willing to poke fun at themselves or their screen characters.
Jonathan Frakes also gets his say (for TNG fans).
My one regret is that I have only been able to watch it once so far as I hadn't set the VCR. However, I can't wait for it to be broadcast again (am glad the TV companies show a lot of repeats).
Absolutely not to be missed episode.