Duration: 119mins
Rated: M
Genre: Drama
Director: Brad Furman (The Take 2008)
If the opening song to a movie had to be an indication of what a film would be like, than the 1974 Bobby 'Blue' Bland track, 'Ain't No Love in The Heart of The City' said 'Sit back, relax, grab a glass of wine, sit in front of the open fire and chill out because this was one cool movie'. And indeed it was.
l saw this film with a friend at Gold Class (thanks for the ticket Libby and John) and it was a perfect setting. l could have burnt my shoes for the open fire effect but there would be too many consquences that would flow from that, the least of which would be l'd have no shoes to run away from the ushers with.
Reluctant as l was to watch Matthew McConaughey, l sucked it up and took the advice of my mentors David and Margaret that it would be ok. And more than ok it was.
The movie is based on a best selling novel by Michael Connelly and having not read the book, l can only guess people who have will hate the adaptation. l on the other hand had no preconceived ideas and therefore enjoyed it.
Cool Lawyer (Matthew), Slick Client (Ryan Philippe), Loyal Friend (William H Macy), Sexy Ex Wife (Marisa Tomei) and you have the formula you need to make an entertaining film.
Add this to your list of to see but under the category 'Not too heavy not too light'.
Friday, April 22, 2011
IN A BETTER WORLD
Dur: 118mins
Rated: MA
Genre: Drama
Director: Susanne Bier (Brothers 2004-American version released not long after the original, Things We Lost In The Fire 2007, After the Wedding 2006 which was nominated for Best Foreign Film but lost out to The Lives of Others, a very good film if you have not seen it), and many other films l have not mentioned.
l saw the preview of this film on At the Movies (my bible for all movies) and at once there was something about it that looked quite compelling. l was not to be dissappointed.
This movie slowly envelopes you into the lives of two families going through two very different emotional and trying times. You become witness to both the tragedies and hope of human beings as well as the evil and good of individuals. The movie is set mainly in Denmark and Africa where one of the main actors Mikael Persbrandt, playing Anton, a Doctor, works at a refugee camp for long stints at a time, taking him away from his estranged wife and two boys, one being Elias, Markus Rygaard. The other main character is Ulrich Thornsen playing Claus, the father to Christian, William Johnk Nielsen, who is coming to terms with the loss of his wife.
The two boys, Christian and Elias meet at school under unusual circumstances and it's the consquences that flow from that meeting which will captivate and haunt you.
The actors all round are great, the intensity, passion, sadness and strength that are showed in this film, make it compelling viewing. l hope you feel the same when you go to see it.
This film reminds you what films should be like and why we go. It was no surprise therefore to learn it was nominated for a 2010 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and won.
Rated: MA
Genre: Drama
Director: Susanne Bier (Brothers 2004-American version released not long after the original, Things We Lost In The Fire 2007, After the Wedding 2006 which was nominated for Best Foreign Film but lost out to The Lives of Others, a very good film if you have not seen it), and many other films l have not mentioned.
l saw the preview of this film on At the Movies (my bible for all movies) and at once there was something about it that looked quite compelling. l was not to be dissappointed.
This movie slowly envelopes you into the lives of two families going through two very different emotional and trying times. You become witness to both the tragedies and hope of human beings as well as the evil and good of individuals. The movie is set mainly in Denmark and Africa where one of the main actors Mikael Persbrandt, playing Anton, a Doctor, works at a refugee camp for long stints at a time, taking him away from his estranged wife and two boys, one being Elias, Markus Rygaard. The other main character is Ulrich Thornsen playing Claus, the father to Christian, William Johnk Nielsen, who is coming to terms with the loss of his wife.
The two boys, Christian and Elias meet at school under unusual circumstances and it's the consquences that flow from that meeting which will captivate and haunt you.
The actors all round are great, the intensity, passion, sadness and strength that are showed in this film, make it compelling viewing. l hope you feel the same when you go to see it.
This film reminds you what films should be like and why we go. It was no surprise therefore to learn it was nominated for a 2010 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and won.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
DESPICABLE ME
Duration: 95 mins
Rated: PG
Genre: Family, Comedy, Animation
Director: Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud
Please note that as you read the following review it is from someone who cried in the Animation 'Up and Toy Story 3', ok, proceed.
You will not cry in this film it's not that sad, in fact it's not sad at all. Perhaps the above information was too much, nevermind.
Steve Carrell, the guy who played the lead actor in the 40 year old Virgin, the Uncle in Little Miss Sunshine and the boss in the Office, is the voice off Gru, a grumpy villian who had a bad childhood and has some sort of Russian accent. Gru could never please his mother, voiced by Julie Andrews and has been trying to please her ever since. Gru is a villian and until recent events was the number one villian in the world.
His status has been usurped by a young upstart who seems to have an endless supply of funds for his evil deeds, (Villians need money to conduct evil deeds so there is a villian bank just for them.)
Gru wants to reclaim his title but in order to do that, needs a piece of equipment that he must steal, which he does but then gets stolen from him by, yes, the upstart. Although he tries several ways to retrieve said equipment, he fails miserably until the 'light bulb' goes off and the solution to his problems comes in the form of three small children.
If you have small children they will like it. If you are a small child you will like it also. After two failed attempts (l must have silence when l watch a film, watching it with other children can be very annoying) l finally got to watch the whole film and it was worth it.
3 and half minions (will make more sense when you watch the film.)
Rated: PG
Genre: Family, Comedy, Animation
Director: Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud
Please note that as you read the following review it is from someone who cried in the Animation 'Up and Toy Story 3', ok, proceed.
You will not cry in this film it's not that sad, in fact it's not sad at all. Perhaps the above information was too much, nevermind.
Steve Carrell, the guy who played the lead actor in the 40 year old Virgin, the Uncle in Little Miss Sunshine and the boss in the Office, is the voice off Gru, a grumpy villian who had a bad childhood and has some sort of Russian accent. Gru could never please his mother, voiced by Julie Andrews and has been trying to please her ever since. Gru is a villian and until recent events was the number one villian in the world.
His status has been usurped by a young upstart who seems to have an endless supply of funds for his evil deeds, (Villians need money to conduct evil deeds so there is a villian bank just for them.)
Gru wants to reclaim his title but in order to do that, needs a piece of equipment that he must steal, which he does but then gets stolen from him by, yes, the upstart. Although he tries several ways to retrieve said equipment, he fails miserably until the 'light bulb' goes off and the solution to his problems comes in the form of three small children.
If you have small children they will like it. If you are a small child you will like it also. After two failed attempts (l must have silence when l watch a film, watching it with other children can be very annoying) l finally got to watch the whole film and it was worth it.
3 and half minions (will make more sense when you watch the film.)
CONVICTION
Duration: 107 mins
Rated: M
Genre: Biography, Drama
Director: Tony Goldwyn (A Walk on The Moon 1999, The Last Kiss 2006. You will know him better as the mean friend of Patrick Swayze in Ghost.)
l thought l would like this film more because it had all the ingrediants for a great cake. Good actors, amazing true story of one sisters love for her wrongly convicted brother and the amazing lengths she will go to to free him, however, it still comes out of the oven missing something. It felt like it went for too long and there were holes in the plot and plots that were never developed.
Hilary Swank playes Betty Anne, the sister to Sam Rockwells, Kenny Waters. The sacrifices she makes to get her brother out of jail are truly astonishing and you wonder if it were you would you do the same? The answer for me is probably not but l would try and get someone else to help my sibling and hope my story gets on 'Australian Story' and everyone would think l was great (yes l did say all that out loud.)
If it's the only option at the store, get it because my mother thought it was great (but then Dolores also likes Packed to the Rafters), best you be the judge.
Rated: M
Genre: Biography, Drama
Director: Tony Goldwyn (A Walk on The Moon 1999, The Last Kiss 2006. You will know him better as the mean friend of Patrick Swayze in Ghost.)
l thought l would like this film more because it had all the ingrediants for a great cake. Good actors, amazing true story of one sisters love for her wrongly convicted brother and the amazing lengths she will go to to free him, however, it still comes out of the oven missing something. It felt like it went for too long and there were holes in the plot and plots that were never developed.
Hilary Swank playes Betty Anne, the sister to Sam Rockwells, Kenny Waters. The sacrifices she makes to get her brother out of jail are truly astonishing and you wonder if it were you would you do the same? The answer for me is probably not but l would try and get someone else to help my sibling and hope my story gets on 'Australian Story' and everyone would think l was great (yes l did say all that out loud.)
If it's the only option at the store, get it because my mother thought it was great (but then Dolores also likes Packed to the Rafters), best you be the judge.
127 HOURS
Duration: 127 hours (just joking) 93 mins
Rated: MA
Genre: Adventure, Biography, Drama, Thriller
Director: Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire)
Number one lesson l learnt from 127 hours, if l were an adventurer and climbing rocks or exploring deserted areas for kicks is how l get my rocks off (pardon the pun) would be 'TELL SOMEONE WHERE I AM GOING!'. Number two lesson, 'Take swiss army knife with me at all times', oh wait l do that already.
You all know the True Story of Aron Ralson and his amazing escape at his own hand from a crevice at the Bluejohn Canyon, Utah. But what you don't know is how it wasn't the first thing Aron, played by James Franco, thought about when he did get trapped and surprisingly how long it finally took him to realise he had but one option left. As an audience, you are obviously aware of where the movie is going but even knowing that, you still become embroiled in this man's journey from agony to ecstasy. It'a a one man show and he fills the space.
Danny Boyle captures the moments of each passing minute brilliantly and James conveys the moments of being trapped and hopelessness beautifully. The scene where he reaches out for the warmth of the sun, of which he gets only 10 or so minutes a day is lovely yet sad.
l have spoken to some people about this movie and they are reluctant to see it because of 'That Scene', however don't let, what as l said earlier is a scene at the very end of the film, dissuade you from seeing another good Danny Boyle film and watching for yourself the strength of one individual.
Even though the movie is called 127 hours in the words of Alice Ryan, 4 yrs old, it really should be called '55 mins'.
Rated: MA
Genre: Adventure, Biography, Drama, Thriller
Director: Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire)
Number one lesson l learnt from 127 hours, if l were an adventurer and climbing rocks or exploring deserted areas for kicks is how l get my rocks off (pardon the pun) would be 'TELL SOMEONE WHERE I AM GOING!'. Number two lesson, 'Take swiss army knife with me at all times', oh wait l do that already.
You all know the True Story of Aron Ralson and his amazing escape at his own hand from a crevice at the Bluejohn Canyon, Utah. But what you don't know is how it wasn't the first thing Aron, played by James Franco, thought about when he did get trapped and surprisingly how long it finally took him to realise he had but one option left. As an audience, you are obviously aware of where the movie is going but even knowing that, you still become embroiled in this man's journey from agony to ecstasy. It'a a one man show and he fills the space.
Danny Boyle captures the moments of each passing minute brilliantly and James conveys the moments of being trapped and hopelessness beautifully. The scene where he reaches out for the warmth of the sun, of which he gets only 10 or so minutes a day is lovely yet sad.
l have spoken to some people about this movie and they are reluctant to see it because of 'That Scene', however don't let, what as l said earlier is a scene at the very end of the film, dissuade you from seeing another good Danny Boyle film and watching for yourself the strength of one individual.
Even though the movie is called 127 hours in the words of Alice Ryan, 4 yrs old, it really should be called '55 mins'.
Monday, March 14, 2011
THE SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP
Duration:92 mins
Rated:M
Genre:Drama, History
Director:Richard Loncraine (My House in Umbria 2003, Wimbledon 2004, Firewall 2006, My One and Only 2009. Handful chosen only)
Michael Sheen (The Queen, Damned United) seems to have cornered the market on the only actor who can play former Prime Minister, Tony Blair. This time it is to portray the 'special relationship' Tony Blair had with the then 42nd President of the United States, Bill Clinton.
We all know how well Michael Sheen can take off Tony Blair but Dennis Quaid doesn't do a bad job of impersonating Bill Clinton.
This made for Television movie (originally screened in Britain on TV) captures a time in history when the two young leaders had the world at their feet and how they navigated politics across the globe. It also chronicles the time when one friend had to decide what to do while the other faced a personal scandal.
A special mention must be made about the actress who plays Hilary Clinton, Hope Davis she does a great job. You are reminded about the determination of this woman and how she was the first, first lady, to be subpoenaed in the 1996 Whitewater controversary. The first former first lady, to hold a Senatorial Seat for New York from 2001 to 2009 and who would become the first former first lady to be Secretary of State for the Obama administration. This is a woman you would not want to mess with and whom you would definitely want on your side.
It may not be a memorable movie but you won't be bored and the 92 mins is worth the ride.
Rated:M
Genre:Drama, History
Director:Richard Loncraine (My House in Umbria 2003, Wimbledon 2004, Firewall 2006, My One and Only 2009. Handful chosen only)
Michael Sheen (The Queen, Damned United) seems to have cornered the market on the only actor who can play former Prime Minister, Tony Blair. This time it is to portray the 'special relationship' Tony Blair had with the then 42nd President of the United States, Bill Clinton.
We all know how well Michael Sheen can take off Tony Blair but Dennis Quaid doesn't do a bad job of impersonating Bill Clinton.
This made for Television movie (originally screened in Britain on TV) captures a time in history when the two young leaders had the world at their feet and how they navigated politics across the globe. It also chronicles the time when one friend had to decide what to do while the other faced a personal scandal.
A special mention must be made about the actress who plays Hilary Clinton, Hope Davis she does a great job. You are reminded about the determination of this woman and how she was the first, first lady, to be subpoenaed in the 1996 Whitewater controversary. The first former first lady, to hold a Senatorial Seat for New York from 2001 to 2009 and who would become the first former first lady to be Secretary of State for the Obama administration. This is a woman you would not want to mess with and whom you would definitely want on your side.
It may not be a memorable movie but you won't be bored and the 92 mins is worth the ride.
THE KILLER INSIDE ME
Duration: 108 mins
Rated: MA
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Director: Michael Winterbottom (9 Songs 2004, Welcome to Sarajevo 1997, 24 Hour Party People 2002, Butterfly Kiss 1995, Jude 1996, A Mighty Heart 2007, Genova 2008. Handful chosen only.)
l'm not sure about you but when l watch a violent film ala 'Quentin Tarantino' style, the violence is obvious, silly and inaffective emotionally. However the complete opposite rules apply to the two violent scenes in The Killer Inside Me, it is real, confronting and horrific. And yes you read correctly, only two scenes, however the power of those scenes is enough to make you think the whole film is full of violence. (Remember Silence of the Lambs. There were only two or three scenes that were actually violent the rest was implied.)
The movie is about a small town police officer, Lou Ford played by Casey Affleck and the consequences of a knock on the door of the local 'prostitute' Joyce played by Jessica Abla. Keep an eye out for Kate Hudson in a very different role.
Don't misunderstand my earlier comments as a negative take on the movie, it's a good flick (not so rapt in the ending) but be prepared for those two scenes because they ain't easy watching.
Rated: MA
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Director: Michael Winterbottom (9 Songs 2004, Welcome to Sarajevo 1997, 24 Hour Party People 2002, Butterfly Kiss 1995, Jude 1996, A Mighty Heart 2007, Genova 2008. Handful chosen only.)
l'm not sure about you but when l watch a violent film ala 'Quentin Tarantino' style, the violence is obvious, silly and inaffective emotionally. However the complete opposite rules apply to the two violent scenes in The Killer Inside Me, it is real, confronting and horrific. And yes you read correctly, only two scenes, however the power of those scenes is enough to make you think the whole film is full of violence. (Remember Silence of the Lambs. There were only two or three scenes that were actually violent the rest was implied.)
The movie is about a small town police officer, Lou Ford played by Casey Affleck and the consequences of a knock on the door of the local 'prostitute' Joyce played by Jessica Abla. Keep an eye out for Kate Hudson in a very different role.
Don't misunderstand my earlier comments as a negative take on the movie, it's a good flick (not so rapt in the ending) but be prepared for those two scenes because they ain't easy watching.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
THE FIGHTER
Rated: MA
Duration: 116 mins
Genre: Biography, Drama, Sport
Director: David O'Russell (Three Kings 1999, I Love the Huckabees 2004, Soldiers Pay 2004, Nailed 2011. Once again only a handful chosen among many more.)
Duration: 116 mins
Genre: Biography, Drama, Sport
Director: David O'Russell (Three Kings 1999, I Love the Huckabees 2004, Soldiers Pay 2004, Nailed 2011. Once again only a handful chosen among many more.)
I challenge anyone to go watch this film and not want to box later, or skip or just take steroids. Not taking anything away from Mark Wahlberg it is Christian Bale’s film. He doesn’t do things by halves and once again he has shed the kilos and made himself look truly like a man on the edge of existence.
For those of you that don’t know, The Fighter is based on the true story of Micky Ward a fighter who could never break the big time and the family that relied on him for their livelihood.
Christian Bale who has been nominated for an academy award in a supporting role plays Micky’s Brother, Dicky, who was once a fighter also but life’s temptations got the better of him.
The mum is played by Melissa Leo, (TV: Homicide: Life on the Street, Film: 21 Grams and Frozen River) and although l did not recognise her in this particular role, (l did realise who she was after researching for this blog) is amazing.
All the hype you may have heard is all true. Go see.
All the hype you may have heard is all true. Go see.
BOY
Rating: M
Duration: 87 mins
Genre: Drama, Family, Humour
Director: Taika Waititi (Eagle Vs Shark 2007) Boy was nominated for a Grand Jury prize at the Sundance Film festival. He didn't get it though Animal Kingdom won.
I was meant to watch this NZ film on the rooftop cinema situated on the top of Curtain House in the city on the 13th of January with about 7 of my friends. However Mother Nature had other ideas and that was the week of the heavy rain that went for 4 days non-stop only to stop on the 14th!!!!!!!!
Forging ahead l made a friend of mine take the DVD out and made her watch it with me (thanks Robyn).
Set in 1984, it tells the story of brothers Boy (played by James Rolleston) and Rocky (Te Aho Eketone-Whitu) and how they cope with the absence of their father who is in Jail. The eldest boy 'Boy' has imagined this idealistic view of his dad while the younger brother, Rocky doesn’t really remember him at all and finds his return somewhat disconcerting. The dad, Taika Waititi, who not only directed but also wrote the screenplay, has returned from his stint in jail with only one mission in mind and while the mission looks hopeful, so does the mood, however things don’t go according to plan and the mood turns sour.
This is a lovely film and the performances from the boys, in particular Rocky, beautiful.
Add it to your DVD list.
Add it to your DVD list.
Sarah's Key (Original Title 'Her Name was Sarah')
Rating: M
Duration: 111 mins
Genre: Drama, Family
Director: Gilles Paquet Brenner (The Pretty Things 2001, Walled In 2009. l have only mentioned two in a long list.)
No film about the Holocust is going to be uplifting, Sarah's Key is no different. The film tells the story of the torture the French jews were subjected too in July of 1942 not by the Germans but by their own people.
Kristen Scott Thomas has made a few french Films of late 'Leaving' and 'l've Loved You So Long' (add that to your DVD list) and her versatility as an actor shines once again in Sarah's Key. Her French husbands family own an apartment in a suburb of France and they are due to move in after some renovations are done. However the apartments renovations will not hide what is behind the walls.
As an audience you go on a journey with 'Julia' as she starts to unravel a mystery she had no idea was right on her doorstep.
This is not an easy film to watch but remember you only have to watch. However if it's an uplifting and a happy sensation you want to feel after a movie, don't go see this one.
Duration: 111 mins
Genre: Drama, Family
Director: Gilles Paquet Brenner (The Pretty Things 2001, Walled In 2009. l have only mentioned two in a long list.)
No film about the Holocust is going to be uplifting, Sarah's Key is no different. The film tells the story of the torture the French jews were subjected too in July of 1942 not by the Germans but by their own people.
Kristen Scott Thomas has made a few french Films of late 'Leaving' and 'l've Loved You So Long' (add that to your DVD list) and her versatility as an actor shines once again in Sarah's Key. Her French husbands family own an apartment in a suburb of France and they are due to move in after some renovations are done. However the apartments renovations will not hide what is behind the walls.
As an audience you go on a journey with 'Julia' as she starts to unravel a mystery she had no idea was right on her doorstep.
This is not an easy film to watch but remember you only have to watch. However if it's an uplifting and a happy sensation you want to feel after a movie, don't go see this one.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Gulliver's Travels. Special Guest Reporter, Ava Grist.
Rated: PG
Duration: 115 mins
Genre: Comedy
Director: Rob Lettermen (Monsters vs Aliens 2009, Shark Tale 2004, Shrek 2001, Lake Placid 1999)
I went to see Gulliver’s Travels with a friend who had been to the same film the day before but liked it so much wanted to see it again. I thought it was a classic movie for kids and a laugh for the adults.
It stars the big kid himself, Jack Black, Emily Blunt and Jason Seqel, together along with Rob Lettermen they make a great film.
Gulliver has a pretty ordinary life running the mail room in a large company but has a major crush on the girl that runs the reports and writing room. When she gives him a task to go to sea, he gets swept away and ends up in a land where the people are as small as ants. When he becomes known as 'The Beast' and gets carried away with his own size, he tells the King that the land that he came from he used to be the President. This of course leads to an expectation that he can fight off all the enemies, which is easier said than done.
I thought the length of the film was just enough to not bore me. In my opinion Jack Black fits the role perfectly, a funny yet a bit stupid at times, he comes together to make the perfect Gulliver.
I would happily recommend this movie to anyone.
Duration: 115 mins
Genre: Comedy
Director: Rob Lettermen (Monsters vs Aliens 2009, Shark Tale 2004, Shrek 2001, Lake Placid 1999)
I went to see Gulliver’s Travels with a friend who had been to the same film the day before but liked it so much wanted to see it again. I thought it was a classic movie for kids and a laugh for the adults.
It stars the big kid himself, Jack Black, Emily Blunt and Jason Seqel, together along with Rob Lettermen they make a great film.
Gulliver has a pretty ordinary life running the mail room in a large company but has a major crush on the girl that runs the reports and writing room. When she gives him a task to go to sea, he gets swept away and ends up in a land where the people are as small as ants. When he becomes known as 'The Beast' and gets carried away with his own size, he tells the King that the land that he came from he used to be the President. This of course leads to an expectation that he can fight off all the enemies, which is easier said than done.
I thought the length of the film was just enough to not bore me. In my opinion Jack Black fits the role perfectly, a funny yet a bit stupid at times, he comes together to make the perfect Gulliver.
I would happily recommend this movie to anyone.
Movie Night
2nd of April afternoon session.
Location: Como
Time: 4pm
Movie: Barney's Version
Drinks: 3pm for those that want to meet at Como Bar for a drink beforehand. If l don't hear from anyone then l will be there from 3.30pm.
Hope to see you there.
PS: Have a BBQ/Dinner on that night hence the afternoon session.
Bernice Farrugia
CEO Bernsbackrow
04 100 626 74
Location: Como
Time: 4pm
Movie: Barney's Version
Drinks: 3pm for those that want to meet at Como Bar for a drink beforehand. If l don't hear from anyone then l will be there from 3.30pm.
Hope to see you there.
PS: Have a BBQ/Dinner on that night hence the afternoon session.
Bernice Farrugia
CEO Bernsbackrow
04 100 626 74
A Single Man
Rated: M
Duration: 99 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: Tom Ford
Once upon a time there was a man who was a fashion designer for one of the biggest houses, Gucci and YSL who decided to pack it all up and direct movies. Welcome Tom Ford. He had never directed anything before other than the models on a catwalk but obviously this was enough of a training ground because this first time effort is good but more to the point, stylish. Some may not like how neat and clean the movie is and how nothing is out of place. However this seemingly orderly and calm world clashes with the character of George Falconer who is feeling anything but peaceful.
Colin Firth was nominated for Academy Award for his role as George Falconer in 2010 but missed out because it was 'Jeff Bridges time'.
This film is slow in parts so be prepared. The movie takes place over one day only but that's enough to give you an understanding of how long a day can be when you are tormented.
I liked this film because of the love that is expressed, the set design and of course Colin Firth. He manages once again to immerse himself into the character so deeply you forget where one ended and the other began.
Next film please Tom Ford.
Duration: 99 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: Tom Ford
Once upon a time there was a man who was a fashion designer for one of the biggest houses, Gucci and YSL who decided to pack it all up and direct movies. Welcome Tom Ford. He had never directed anything before other than the models on a catwalk but obviously this was enough of a training ground because this first time effort is good but more to the point, stylish. Some may not like how neat and clean the movie is and how nothing is out of place. However this seemingly orderly and calm world clashes with the character of George Falconer who is feeling anything but peaceful.
Colin Firth was nominated for Academy Award for his role as George Falconer in 2010 but missed out because it was 'Jeff Bridges time'.
This film is slow in parts so be prepared. The movie takes place over one day only but that's enough to give you an understanding of how long a day can be when you are tormented.
I liked this film because of the love that is expressed, the set design and of course Colin Firth. He manages once again to immerse himself into the character so deeply you forget where one ended and the other began.
Next film please Tom Ford.
Brothers
Rated: M
Duration: 104 mins
Genre: Drama, Thriller, War
Director: Jim Sheridan (My Left Foot 1989, In the Name of The Father 1993, The Boxer 1997. He has alot more films to his name but l chose these as they are among three great films if you haven't seen any of them please do.)
l wanted to see this film because it had Natalie Portman in it, not kissing a girl this time. l missed seeing this at the movies when it came out so have managed to view it while on holidays.
I knew it would be good and it did not disappoint. The three actors are all fantastic and give powerful performances. Tobey Maguire sheds his Spiderman outfit quite dramatically, Jake Gyllenhaal proves he is a man for all seasons and Natalie Portman is captivating as a woman struggling with loss, renewal and the unknown. The two little girls are worth mentioning because one of them is just divine and her sadness pulpable.
This is not an altogether uplifting film but it has it's joyous moments. It is about war, family, loss, change, comfort, uncertainty but ultimately love. I would highly recommend.
Duration: 104 mins
Genre: Drama, Thriller, War
Director: Jim Sheridan (My Left Foot 1989, In the Name of The Father 1993, The Boxer 1997. He has alot more films to his name but l chose these as they are among three great films if you haven't seen any of them please do.)
l wanted to see this film because it had Natalie Portman in it, not kissing a girl this time. l missed seeing this at the movies when it came out so have managed to view it while on holidays.
I knew it would be good and it did not disappoint. The three actors are all fantastic and give powerful performances. Tobey Maguire sheds his Spiderman outfit quite dramatically, Jake Gyllenhaal proves he is a man for all seasons and Natalie Portman is captivating as a woman struggling with loss, renewal and the unknown. The two little girls are worth mentioning because one of them is just divine and her sadness pulpable.
This is not an altogether uplifting film but it has it's joyous moments. It is about war, family, loss, change, comfort, uncertainty but ultimately love. I would highly recommend.
Black Swan
Rated: MA
Duration: 111 mins
Genre: Drama, Thriller, Mystery
Director: Darren Aronofsky (Requiem for a Dream 2000, The Fountain 2006, The Wrestler 2008)
l wanted to see this because it had Natalie Portman in it pashing a girl. The fact that the movie is good was a bonus. Darren Aronofsky likes making movies about tortured souls trying to make good somehow as he did in The Wrestler. Mickey Rourke was wrestling with not only his opponents but his own inner demons and Natalie Portman is doing the same.
We all know by now what the movie is about but what we don't know is, is she fighting her mother, played by Barbara Hershey of 'Beaches' fame or herself?. l watched this movie slightly hungover on New Years Day so l may need to re-visit it with less blood shot eyes or a blinding headache. Still, what l do recall is thinking 'is this going to be like the movie 'Fight Club?' You'll have to watch it and see if you make the same comparison. If you don't, then l can blame alcohol and we can all rest easy but if you do, then champagne is not the enemy afterall.
Regardless of my condition the movie is worth seeing for just the effort and committment Natalie Portman put into this film. One year training at a Ballet School (where she met her now boyfriend and father of her child) and the possibility it will earn her an Academy Award.
Keep an eye out for an actress we have not seen for awhile and who became more famous for what she stole then the roles she was given.
Go see people and massage your toes when you get home.
Duration: 111 mins
Genre: Drama, Thriller, Mystery
Director: Darren Aronofsky (Requiem for a Dream 2000, The Fountain 2006, The Wrestler 2008)
l wanted to see this because it had Natalie Portman in it pashing a girl. The fact that the movie is good was a bonus. Darren Aronofsky likes making movies about tortured souls trying to make good somehow as he did in The Wrestler. Mickey Rourke was wrestling with not only his opponents but his own inner demons and Natalie Portman is doing the same.
We all know by now what the movie is about but what we don't know is, is she fighting her mother, played by Barbara Hershey of 'Beaches' fame or herself?. l watched this movie slightly hungover on New Years Day so l may need to re-visit it with less blood shot eyes or a blinding headache. Still, what l do recall is thinking 'is this going to be like the movie 'Fight Club?' You'll have to watch it and see if you make the same comparison. If you don't, then l can blame alcohol and we can all rest easy but if you do, then champagne is not the enemy afterall.
Regardless of my condition the movie is worth seeing for just the effort and committment Natalie Portman put into this film. One year training at a Ballet School (where she met her now boyfriend and father of her child) and the possibility it will earn her an Academy Award.
Keep an eye out for an actress we have not seen for awhile and who became more famous for what she stole then the roles she was given.
Go see people and massage your toes when you get home.
Somewhere
Rated: M
Duration: 98 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: Sofia Coppola (The Virging Suicides 1999, Lost In Translation 2003, Marie Antoinette 2006)
Anyone remember Stephen Dorff? You know the guy in that movie, you know the one? Well l didn't know the one and couldn't remember any of his movies and had to look them up. Among the numerous films he has been in the three l kinda recognised was Public Enemies 2009, Blade 1998 and Backbeat 1994.
Stephen Dorff is good at not doing much and looking lost and Elle Fanning is good at playing his daughter and just hangin out and looking lost also. Maybe this film should have been called 'Somewhere Else' because at times l wanted to be just that.
Sofia Coppola has a filming style that you either like or dislike. If you don't like, stay away, because not much happens and not much talking takes place either.
Duration: 98 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: Sofia Coppola (The Virging Suicides 1999, Lost In Translation 2003, Marie Antoinette 2006)
Anyone remember Stephen Dorff? You know the guy in that movie, you know the one? Well l didn't know the one and couldn't remember any of his movies and had to look them up. Among the numerous films he has been in the three l kinda recognised was Public Enemies 2009, Blade 1998 and Backbeat 1994.
Stephen Dorff is good at not doing much and looking lost and Elle Fanning is good at playing his daughter and just hangin out and looking lost also. Maybe this film should have been called 'Somewhere Else' because at times l wanted to be just that.
Sofia Coppola has a filming style that you either like or dislike. If you don't like, stay away, because not much happens and not much talking takes place either.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Keep In Mind
No reviews for the following films just ones to look out for that may still be at the cinema or out on dvd/internet, they are in no particular order. Feel free to send me your critic or let me know some others l can add to the list.
- Animal Kingdom
- The Hurt Locker
- Inception
- Shutter Island
- Social Network
- Chloe
- The Kids are Alright
- Black Swan
- The Village
- I am Love
- Boy
- Rachel at the Wedding
- Gran Torino
- Changeling
- Frost Nixon
- The Messenger
- The Reader
- Revolutionary Road
- Departed
- Mother and Child
- Bobby
- Damned United
- The Queen
- Blind Side
- Up In the Air
- City Island
The Kings Speech
Rated:M
Duration:118 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: Tom Hooper (Red Dust 2004 and Damned United 2009)
If you want a movie that is purely character driven and the actors immerse themselves so deep within the role that you forget you are watching actors, then go see The Kings Speech.
Colin Firth plays King George VI and was Queens Elizabeth's Dad. At the beginning of the film he ain't the King but just a Prince with a wife and two kids and of course a bloody bad stutter. Sadly for George he needs to give speeches every now and again, as you do when you are a Prince and this of course is somewhat of a health hazard. In his attempt to rectify the situation he comes across some interesting remedies. Finally through his wife, played by Helena Bonham Carter, he comes across an aussie bloke named Lionel, Geoffrey Rush and as they say 'The rest is history'. Guy Pearce is a lovely presence as the tormented older son who by the death of his Father inherits the thorne but because of the love for an American Divorcee, Wallace Simpson, must abdicate and therefore 'Stutter' is thrust right into the limelight.
Colin Firth's abililty to make you believe his stutter will be the death of him and the pulpable frustration with wanting to speak but cannot is superbly acted out. Geoffrey Rush is just lovely on screen and when 'George and Lionel' are together you just know everything will be ok.
Stay till the end becuase some information comes up that was quite touching.
Duration:118 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: Tom Hooper (Red Dust 2004 and Damned United 2009)
If you want a movie that is purely character driven and the actors immerse themselves so deep within the role that you forget you are watching actors, then go see The Kings Speech.
Colin Firth plays King George VI and was Queens Elizabeth's Dad. At the beginning of the film he ain't the King but just a Prince with a wife and two kids and of course a bloody bad stutter. Sadly for George he needs to give speeches every now and again, as you do when you are a Prince and this of course is somewhat of a health hazard. In his attempt to rectify the situation he comes across some interesting remedies. Finally through his wife, played by Helena Bonham Carter, he comes across an aussie bloke named Lionel, Geoffrey Rush and as they say 'The rest is history'. Guy Pearce is a lovely presence as the tormented older son who by the death of his Father inherits the thorne but because of the love for an American Divorcee, Wallace Simpson, must abdicate and therefore 'Stutter' is thrust right into the limelight.
Colin Firth's abililty to make you believe his stutter will be the death of him and the pulpable frustration with wanting to speak but cannot is superbly acted out. Geoffrey Rush is just lovely on screen and when 'George and Lionel' are together you just know everything will be ok.
Stay till the end becuase some information comes up that was quite touching.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Love and Other Drugs
09/01/11
Rated:MA
Duration:112 Mins
Genre: RomCom
Director: Edward Zwick (Glory 1989, The Seige 1998, Legends of the Fall 1994, The Last Samurai 2003, Blood Diamond 2006, Defiance 2008)
First film off the rank for 2011 is the 'so so' Love and Other Drugs starring Jake Gyllenhaal, (looking very handsome) playing the character Jamie Randall and Anne Hathaway (looking very naked), playing the character of Maggie Murdoch. By the way Anne Hathaway will be hosting the Academy Awards with James Franco (he played the friend of Peter Parker who turns evil in the early Spiderman films and also the lover of Harvey Milk, along side Sean Penn in the film 'Milk').
My first suggestion if you have decided to check this flick out is DON'T GO WITH YOUR MOTHER. Lots of sex and naked bodies and even though you may be ok with it, trust me they ain't.
Love and Other Drugs is basically a story of a young man who never felt he needed to do more than be charming and score the chicks and a woman who has a particular issue (telling you that will ruin the story somewhat) which she believes negates her right to be loved.
For a RomCom it is better than most and there are particular scenes which are genuinely funny and poignant moments which may or may not bring a tear to the eye, (one scene brought 4 or 5 tears to the left eye only.)
If you want a light heartish film which your brain need not be really awake for then go, sit back and switch off from the world at large. (Hopefully you do not go to a cinema that is really small, the screen really high and the carpet stinks of something odd.)
Rated:MA
Duration:112 Mins
Genre: RomCom
Director: Edward Zwick (Glory 1989, The Seige 1998, Legends of the Fall 1994, The Last Samurai 2003, Blood Diamond 2006, Defiance 2008)
First film off the rank for 2011 is the 'so so' Love and Other Drugs starring Jake Gyllenhaal, (looking very handsome) playing the character Jamie Randall and Anne Hathaway (looking very naked), playing the character of Maggie Murdoch. By the way Anne Hathaway will be hosting the Academy Awards with James Franco (he played the friend of Peter Parker who turns evil in the early Spiderman films and also the lover of Harvey Milk, along side Sean Penn in the film 'Milk').
My first suggestion if you have decided to check this flick out is DON'T GO WITH YOUR MOTHER. Lots of sex and naked bodies and even though you may be ok with it, trust me they ain't.
Love and Other Drugs is basically a story of a young man who never felt he needed to do more than be charming and score the chicks and a woman who has a particular issue (telling you that will ruin the story somewhat) which she believes negates her right to be loved.
For a RomCom it is better than most and there are particular scenes which are genuinely funny and poignant moments which may or may not bring a tear to the eye, (one scene brought 4 or 5 tears to the left eye only.)
If you want a light heartish film which your brain need not be really awake for then go, sit back and switch off from the world at large. (Hopefully you do not go to a cinema that is really small, the screen really high and the carpet stinks of something odd.)
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