gavs film log

Film review of 2006

2007-01-04T17:06:00.000Z

2007 has arrived and having looked back on the movies that I have seen over the last twelve months, I'm really not sure whether it was a good year for movies or not. It was certainly a year of differing quality in the cinema, yet i have managed to watch some movies that I've always wanted to see and they haven't let me down.

I think the cinema club has been fantastic this year and having gone to the flicks nearly every week for the last 6 months, it's been very important for me to be disappointed by some movies and blown away/surprised by others. In all i managed to watch over 280 films last year so what really surprised me was that I didn't even visit the cinema throughout the whole of January.

The DVD collections has continued to grow and the introduction of a DVD night last month was brilliant and I'm well up for continuing this into the new year. Food, great company, and a good DVD!

The year started of really slowly and with me not going to the cinema to see Walk the line, Munich etc, it is possible that January could of been a great month at the big screen. I finally got round to watching most of the Oscar contenders later on in the year but it really made the first few months seem quite bleak on the movie front. The highlight for me though was watching Wolf Creek (4*). A fantastic Australian movie which is very loosely based around the kidnapping of a couple of British backpackers. Those of a squeamish nature may want to give this a miss as it gave one of my friends horrific nightmares afterwards. This has one of the most sadistic death scenes I've ever seen and I've seen this movie quite a few times through the year with various different people and everyone I know has cringed. It is not a horror movie as such, no monsters, no multitude of deaths, no slash attacks. This film is about terror, the terror that is inside of us. The performances are great and it gives a real sense of realness to the film when the characters seem to be just ad-libbing.

Compare this with The Devil Rejects which I watched the week before and the difference is astounding. The Devil's Rejects is the follow up to the film House of a 1000 corpses directed by Rob Zombie, yet it tries to be a really nasty snuff-esque film on one hand and then tries to be really delicate on the other hand. This just doesn't work and the only redeemable feature is the fantastic end sequence to Lynyrd Skynyrd's Freebird. Either show the violence or not. You cannot do both as it leaves the viewing public confused as to what is trying to be achieved.

I managed to watch a few older movies that I'd never got round to seeing including What Lies Beneath (4*) and Unfaithful (4*). Really enjoyed both of these. What Lies Beneath has a couple of really scary bits (the bit in the bath tub is horrible) even if it is a bit predictable but Unfaithful really grabbed my attention and the ending was really clever. Richard Gere playing against his normal character and a real reminder that when fate intervenes anything can happen.

February didn't really get any better with only two cinema trips. One was to see Fun with Dick and Jane (3*). Not Jim Carrey's best but funny never the else and the bit where they have the sprinkler shower in the street had me weak! The second was Final Destination 3 (4*) which I really liked. It was more in tone with the first movie and had some brilliant self referencing for fans of the trilogy. Also, a very dark ending!!! No-one famous but some fantastic death sequences which are still good on repeat viewing. i bought the DVD later on the year and it has a brilliant alternative scene devise where you watch the movie and make decisions on what happens next. Will you save a life or get them killed in a different way?! Really clever and great for duplicate viewings.

The rest of the month was watching DVD's. R-Point (4*) was a brilliant ghost story from Korea abut a group of soldiers who are trapped in a ghost ridden field waiting to be rescued. you have to use your brain as you do with most Asian cinema bu it is well worth it. Also with a ghostly theme, I saw Corpse's Bride (4*). Very short but really funny and quite moving. The excellent combo of Johnny Depp and Tim Burton make this simple ghost into a really good movie. The remake of the Manchurian Candidate (4*) was tense and very poignant in today's post 9/11 climate. Denzel Washington is again excellent and the film has a brilliant ensemble cast. On the flip side, I also had to sit through some complete rubbish.

Alone in the dark (1*) is based on the excellent PC game from the early 1990's. This film is poor beyond believe. The all star cast (!!!!) of Christian Slater and Tara Reid can't even save this from the bargain bin at Netto's. What has happened to Christian Slater? He was awesome in the 1990's - Murder in the first, True Romance, Very Bad things. Now he's a straight to video superstar! Hollow Man 2! PLEASE!!! It's a real shame because unless he can do a John Travolta style turn around he will stay in the STV section of Blockbuster.

March was a funny month as I watched quite a few movies and some really good ones but nothing really much at the cinema again. The Hills have eyes remake (1*)was a real disappointment. I was hoping for so much when i went to see this that perhaps I over egged it a bit but having watched SwitchBlade Romance by the same director last year (which is brilliant) I thought this was going to be special. It's not -Simple as! The story is simple enough with a family stranded out n the middle of no where and some psycho's in the nearby vacinity. There is nothing new in this movie, nothing at all.

V for Vendetta (2*) was also a complete let down. It was actually watched up in Leeds and it was so bad that I fell asleep for a bit. I recently watched it again on DVD to make sure that I hadn't missed the best bits with my cinema nap! I hadn't. the trailer makes it out to be something it isn't and it really lacks a strong narrative. Maybe its trying to be too clever, who knows! Hostel (3*) was ok with a definite From duck till dawn feel about the movie as it seems to be in two halves. I just bought it on DVD and watching it the second time round it was much better, I'd probably go as far as to give it an extra star! At the cinema, I was expecting so much gore and disgusting torture but it never really materalised. The second time round I appreciated the movie for what it is, a long build up with some important character work but a total destruction of a set of lives. The making of on the DVD is also really goos so take a look if you can get hold of it.

I again watched a lot of movies on DVD this month trying to catch up on loads that I had missed at the cinema. Ray (5*) became the first movie to really blow me away. Fantastic acting from Jamie Foxx, brilliant soundtrack, and an all round excellent film. Lord of War (5*) starring Nic Cage also managed to get top marks. Nic cage plays a arms smuggler who tries to maintain a normal social life i.e. married with kids. The film is excellent with a really interesting morale message. Definitely worth a watch.

My guilty pleasure though for this month turned out to be The Dukes of Hazard (5*). I bought it on DVD cos it was cheap and just found it hilarious. A real good story with some really funny moments and a definite hark back to the original TV show. If you want a really good Sunday afternoon film, then you couldn't go far wrong by picking this up. Johnny Knoxsville and Sean William Scott are great as the Duke twins. the Bar fight scene is a real stand out moment!

Other good films included Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (4*). Very weird but very funny. Johnny Depp with another excellent performance. Revolver (4*) has the strangest ending ever and if anyone can explain what happens then please do. It's this puzzle though that is intriguing and has kept me coming back for a couple of repeat viewings. It took a total slating by the press when it came out but watch it for yourself and try and unravel the complex story.

Domino (4*) was also really good. Mickey Rourke's comeback continues and Kiera impresses again.

April saw a grand total of zero cinema visits. I can't believe it looking back as UGC must of been loving taking that £11 a month from me! Good job I battered the cinema in the second half of the year! Only decent film I watched in April was Nightwatch (5*). The first part of a Russian trilogy. Imagine Blade mixed with the Matrix and your not far off. The second part should be arriving fairly soon! On the badside, please please please do not ever buy, watch, rent, borrow, download or even look at Aeon Flux. Utter, utter rubbish. Its so bad that you could use it as a torture mechanism. Charlize Theron, what the hell were you thinking when you agreed to star in this pile of steaming shite?!

May saw the start of the HBOS BA cinema club and it was also quite a good month for movies in the cinema and on DVD. First off Mission Impossible 3 (5*). Fantastic movie, in fact, so good I went to see it twice. The storyline is great and the addition of Phillip Seymour Hoffman as a evil bastard really adds some much needed emotion to the non-stop action. The set piece in the Vatican is amazing and the in-joke which actually lets you see how they make the rubber masks is genius. Your kept guessing through the movie as the story takes in various different locations, yet unlike MI2 it all seems fairly plausible (well almost!).

Also at the cinema this month was Waiting (4*). The ensemble cast in this movie is great with some of the really promising young comic actors. Ryan Reynolds aka Van Wilder, Anna Faris aka Miss Scary movie and Justin Long aka Mr Smacked in the bolloxs a lot in Dodgeball!! The premise is simple, a new member of staff starts in a restaurant and its the tale of his initiation on his first day. You may never wish to eat in a restaurant ever again after watching some of the more gross out bits but this film is really funny. The penis game is a stroke of genius and has probably kept many a student amused over the last year.

X-men 3 (4*) was a real surprise. I hated the second one and wasn't really motivated to see the third installment. It turned out to be worth it as it was a really good piece of popcorn munching, no brain cinema! Brett Ratner stepped into the shoes of Bryan singer and really upped the action. Vinnie Jones is as bad as the reviews said but that aside it's short, sweet and does exactly what it says on the tin.

With these 3 really making it a great month to visit the cinema, one film had to let us down and what a let down it was. After being bigged up as a faithful adaption, we were actually treated to a boring, monologue filled 2 and a half hours. The Da Vinci Code (2*). The book is great yet I really can't explain where they went wrong. The casting is ok, but it just lacks any sort of excitement. Compare this to National Treasure with Nicholas Cage and the difference becomes even bigger. I haven't even bought this on DVD so that says something!!

DVD wise, I finally got round to watching the Godfather trilogy (5*, 5*, 3*) and it was worth the wait. It is true that the third one is a let down but the first two are masterpieces. There's so much tension due to the unpredictable nature of the Corleone family's behavior.

Another fantastic movie was Downfall. It follows Hitler's last days and is a real eye opener to the type of person he really was. With the war lost, Hitler and his most important staff hide out in his underground bunker. Really touching, not from Hitler's point view but the other staff members who are caught up in his suicide who didn't really understand what they were part of.

Onto June and the arrival of Hard Candy (5*). Having heard good word of mouth, I went into this with an open mind despite the unflattering subject matter. A girl of 14 and a man old enough to be her dad converse over the internet and decide to meet up. The opening scene is brilliantly laid out with just the internet talk showed through an MSN style set-up. It immediately grabs your stomach muscles and starts to ring them out until you feel so tense and your not really sure why. The pair meet and the realness of the situation is apparent (having a sister the same age is frightening). The girl manages to capture the man and in a reversal of roles starts to tear his life apart because she suspects him of being a paedophile. The twists and turns are great with a brilliant ending which doesn't let any of the tension subside. For those of you with a weak stomach, the torture scenes are unpleasant but compulsive viewing!

Not that much else at the cinema except a really good remake of the Poseidon Adventure called (funnily enough) Poseidon (4*). The story arc is effectively the same with a rogue wave sitting the boot and its a tale of triumph over adversity as a group of people from differing races, backgrounds and generations battle against the forces of nature. As cheesy as you can get but you just get caught along on the crest of the wave (Pun intended) . The action scenes are inventive and quite tense in places with some really unexpected offing's of the cast. A great movie to watch on Sunday afternoon!

In a completely different tone, United 93 (3*) explores the on-flight entertainment of 9/11 (Just read that back and even I think that is in bad taste!!). No superstars, no character development, infact, you don't even learn the names of some of the flight attendees. This is the story of Flight 93 which missed its target due to the customers on board over running the terrorists. I think I need to see this film again as it was really difficult to watch and seems very slow as it is almost played out in real time. Empire voted this the best film of the year, but I'm not so sure. It was good don't get me wrong and the ending is brilliantly done, it just felt like it was lacking something.

I managed to get round to watching Broken Flowers (5*) on DVD which was excellent and it seems that Bill Murray just seems t get better and better. A touching, yet funny movie about a a guy trying to track down his son he never knew he had. Also excellent was Spun (5*), a drug induced trip into the world of crystal meth! Weird, but some great performances from a wicked ensemble cast.

With World Cup well under way, the Summer suffered slightly from a lack of decent movie releases. July is a good example of this as I only visited the cinema a couple of times.

Pirates of the Caribbean 2 - Dead mans chest (3*) saw quite a few of us take the trip the cinema and most of us came away feeling slightly disappointed. It is a good film, some parts are really funny and there's some great action. The film does suffer from middle of a trilogy syndrome as you have no resolution and you are left hanging on until May this year to find out what happens next. I have a feeling that when you are able to watch the three movies as a trilogy the 3 star rating for this film could increase!

A real nice surprise was Stormbreaker. The trailer sold this movie, no doubt about it. It looked fun with an unbelievable cast. The film delivered on the trailer and I went away with a cheesy grin on my face. High paced, clever gadgets, lots of in jokes the majority aimed at taking the piss out of James Bond. The Odd Job gag is quality and when I re-watched this on DVD the other day, it still had me cracking up! This film could certainly pave the way for a few more as apparently there are loads of books to work with. Mickey Rourke loves hamming it up as a pantomime style bad guy, and there are some great cameos from Jimmy Carr, Stephen Fry and Robbie Coltrane.

The summer sales were quite kind to the pocket and the DVD collection! Vertigo (5*) was cheap as chips and because I'd never seen it before was a must buy (£3!!). Alfred Hitchcock is clearly one of the most clever directors ever. The tension and underlying motives in this film are brilliant. Twists, turns with a great ending. I've just bought quite a few more Hitchcock movies and am working my way through his back catalogue. I haven't been disappointed with a single one yet. Well worth checking out.

Then we hit August. Post World Cup blues but who cared because the cinema erupted into life with the best movie going month of the year. Great films at the cinema and great film on DVD!

First up, Cars (5*). The trailer looked ok, the reviews were distinctly average, yet I throughly enjoyed this movie. Glorious colours, great storyline (only let down by a slightly long middle section). The voice selection of the film is also really good. Owen Wilson fits perfectly to the laid back attitude of Lightening McQueen. The film is also really funny, and I do mean really funny. The end section is packed with jokes and the credit sequence is the funniest piece of cinema I have seen this year. The drive-in movie section had me crying in the flicks and also on DVD. The best kids film of the year without a doubt.

Then came Lady in the Water. Slated by the press, great reviews from the cinema going public. M. Night Shyalaman only ever seems to make movies you either love or hate. There is no middle ground. I have seen everyone of his movies at the cinema and own them all on DVD. I think he is one of the most talented story tellers around at the moment and this film is no exception. Based on a story that Night told to his own children at bed time about a Water nymph that crosses over into the real world. It's a simple enough story yet the multi-layered use of destiny and life's purpose make it so much more than it at first seems. Paul Giamatti puts in another great performance (he seems to be just getting better and better) and the emotional ending is superb. Loads of people had to wipe away the tears at the end and I'll be the first to admit that if i'd been watching it at home I would of had to as well! I can't praise this film enough but like Sixth Sense, Unbreakable and Signs you need to immerse yourself in the movie and let it tell you the story rather than trying to unfold it yourself. I think this is why some people will dislike this movie as it requires some patience and thats not something that everyone has in the cinema world.

The following week, the cinema club had to visit Cineworld twice as the films just kept on coming. Snakes on a Plane (4*) did exactly what is said on the tin. The most audience participation I have ever witnessed at the cinema, shouting, clapping, laughing, the lot. It was great. When Sam L Jackson utters 'the line', the place was rocking. Its a simple premise but the differing uses of the snakes is great and it manages to keep its tongue firmly in its cheek all the way through. The special effects are a bit dodgy in places but its so fun, you just don't care. It also puts a stop to the 'Kenan and Kell' were killed in a car crash myth as Kenan has an important part to play.

A Scanner Darkly (4*) definitely takes the prize for weirdest film of the year. Keanu Reeves is a drug enforcement officer in the near future and is given the task to go undercover in a drugs ring. His identity is kept so private that he is eventually asked to investigate himself. A great supporting cast of Woody Harrelson, Winona Ryder and Robert Downey Jr make this film really funny, as the cast all play to each others strengths. The animated style over film real life actors also makes this film a complete drug induced haze which fits the underlying morales of the story perfectly.

Miami Vice (4*) came bounding on to the scene with definite look of a Michael Mann movie and it also sported the worst tache of the year on Colin Farrel. A bit long but some good action scenes, awesome shoot-out at the end and a really good story line.

Finally at the flicks, Severance (4*). A British comedy horror by the director of one of the sickest films of last year, Creep. Danny Dyer stars as one of a group of Military defence office workers who are on their yearly work outing for team bonding. Soon it all goes horribly wrong and they are left out in the middle of no where with no forms of communication. Its not long before a crazed lunatic shows up and the blood, guts and laughs start to flow. Very British comedy which probably wouldn't appeal outside of the UK but definitely worth a watch.

On DVD, I saw some equally great movies. Brokeback Mountain (5*) was as good as everyone made out. It had been sitting on my self for ages before I got round to watching it, and I really enjoyed it. The prejudice of society weighs heavily on this movie and the ending is really touching. The Constant Gardner (5*) starring Rachel Weisz was fantastic with probably the most politically moral film of the year. Great story and great acting, another brilliant ending. The one word I'd use to sum it up into today's climate is poignant.

The best though was Grizzly Man (5*). A documentary about a man that lived with bears doesn't sound great but this is the best documentary I have ever seen. Timothy Treadwell lived with the same group of bears every summer for 13 years until, one attacked him and his girlfriend, killed them and ate them. It really is an emotional roller coaster of a movie with footage shot by Timothy mixed with interviews from people who knew him. This really has to be seen to be believed. I cannot praise it enough, I just wish I'd seen it at the cinema or I could get some of you lot to watch it!

Others to note A Cock and Bull story (4*) - Very funny, the chestnut scene had me crying with laughter. This won't be everyone's cup of tea but it is a really clever movie. An American Haunting (4*) - scary, tense and the sickest, darkest ending your likely to see in the near future. March of the Penguins (4*) - cute and you learn something!!

How could you follow a month like that. The simple answer is you couldn't. September was ok but it did include the biggest let down of the year.

The Black Dahlia (2*) had an amazing trailer, a brilliant cast, a great director so what the hell happened. Over long, strung out, boring in places. This was a real disappointment. Based on true events, the story follows Josh Harnett as he becomes a detective and has to investigate a grizzly death. There are twists and turns but the eventual twist is rubbish and just makes you wish you hadn't bothered. I won't be buying this on DVD but I'd quite happily watch the trailer!!

The Sentinel (4*) had some flimsy reviews, yet I really enjoyed it and I think it shows why the Cinema club is a great idea. I didn't really want to see it, so Stu and I struck a deal we'd go and see Crank (3*) one day and The Sentinel two days later. I'm really glad I did. Michael Douglas stars as an aging bodyguard to the President of the United States. He's also knocking off his wife behind his back, and he becomes embroiled in an assassination attempt on the Big Cheese's life. Keifer Sutherland plays on his Jack Bauer role as the agent tasked to track Douglas down. Good story, tight time frames and a real quick pace with a nice little twist.

Crank on the other hand is about as frenetic as you can possibly get. It is mental. Jason Statham is massive at the minute in the States and he launches himself into this tongue in cheek action film which feels like the Human equivalent of Speed. Replace the bus with Statham who cannot slow down unless his heart will stop, shoots, runs, kills, shags his way after the culprits. The only poor point is Amy Smart. She has been rubbish in every film I have ever seen her in. It doesn't even help that she gets them out for the lads! Definitely a Saturday night style boys film!

Clerks 2 (4*) was never going to live up to the brilliance of the original but it certainly tries. The story continues with Dante now working in a burger restaurant, well he did. This is his last day! Rude, so rude and offensive but so funny. Way better than Borat. I can't say too much about this one as it will just give away the best bits. If you want to laugh and stupid, horrible, offensive comedy then rent this out!

Right at your door (4*) is a really brave movie coming in the wake of 9/11. Dirty bombs are launched in Los Angeles and families are asked to seal their homes to stop the spread of a virus. Even if your loved ones are outside. A fantastic twist which will leave you gobsmacked.

Managed to get round to watch Jarhead (5*) on DVD. Really enjoyed it. Jamie Foxx is brilliant as the commanding officer, and it really does investigate the boredom and futility of an actual war scenario. The Squid and The Whale (5*) may have the strangest title of the year as there isn't a squid or a whale in the whole film. Its basic premise is how two kids survive the divorce of their parents played by Jeff Daniels and Laura Linney. Really funny and touching. Apparently, its nearly all autobiographical, based on the director's experiences.

October saw the month where my free DVD rentals really kicked in (Thanks Josh!). I watched loads of movies that I'd wanted to see but hadn't got round to seeing at the cinema. There's too many for full details so here is a quick look.

The Proposition (3*) - Mean, moody, bloody - not as good as I thought it was going to be.
Memoirs of a Geisha (4*) - Excellent, I love the Japanese culture so I may be biased. Great acting and story. The ending may make you shed a tear!
3 Burials of Melquidas Estrada (2*) - Didn't like it. Had heard really good things but I just got bored.
Good night and Good Luck - (5*) - Clooney can do no wrong at the moment. Really good movie about the paranoid nature of the American government during the 50's relating to communism.
Taxi Driver (5*) - Yes, its taken me this long to finally get round to watch and yes, it is brilliant!
When a Stranger Calls (4*) - Horror remake which is really creepy. Simple but scary.
Enron - The smartest guys in the room (5*)- Fantastic documentary about the collapse of Enron. Up there fighting it out with Grizzly man!!

Evil Aliens (0*) - Worst film I have ever seen. Huge statement but it sucks. I had to turn this utter pile of crap off after 32 minutes because it was starting to make me feel like my brain was melting. Awful beyond belief.
Capote (4*) - Phillip Seymour Hoffman is awesome again!

Walk the Line (5*) - I've watched this twice and gone on to buy it. Again, I wish I'd seen it at the cinema as the performance from Phoenix and Witherspoon are unbelievable. It's also got me listening to Johnny Cash!! Cash was obviously a tormented sole but was lucky to break through the drug abuse unlike some notable others who also appear in the movie.

Loads of good ones there and there were quite a few good ones at the cinema too.

The Departed (5*) certainly has the best cast of the year. Di Caprio, Damon, Baldwin, Nicholson, Wahlberg. All directed by Martin Scorcese! This was actually my first Scorcese movie at the big screen and it rules. I hadn't seen the original film, Infernal Affairs so I didn't know the story before I went in and I'm glad that this was the case. Having watched the Infernal Affairs trilogy (5*, 5*, 3*) in November, there are definite similarities. Although, enough is different to enable both films to stand up on their own. One cop (Di Caprio) goes undercover as a gangster, one gangster goes undercover as a cop (Damon) and the story plays out as they try to find each other out. Jack Nicholson has his best baddy since the Joker and he eats up the screen, yet the rest of the cast aren't overshadowed. The showdown is great. Tense with several twists which keep you glued to the screen for the full two and half hours!

Texas Chainsaw Massacre - The Beginning (4*) is easily the most disgusting film of the year. It doesn't even add anything knew to the story as such, yet it does nothing wrong and you come out feeling like you have been covered in grime and dirt. I literally came out thinking I needed a wash. Nightmare inducing stuff which some really horrific death scenes. Some great in-jokes for fans of the TCM's, and some interesting plot holes are filled in. I now I'll end up buying this just to watch with other people to see how they react!

Last one for October, Marie Antoinette (4*). If you don't like The Virgin Suicides or Lost in Translation, then don't go an see this. Sofia Coppola directs this movie and you can tell from the opening 5 minutes. Kirsten Dunst is Marie and the film focuses on her loneliness, in a world where she is catered for in every need but lacks love from her enforced other half. It focuses on her years before the French Revolution so there are no heads being lopped off. Its slow and meaningful like Sofia's other movies, yet it makes you think what it would of been like. check out the futuristic references too when she's picking her shoes!!

November was another brilliant month at the cinema with two five star movies in the same week. Casino Royale (5*) is without a doubt, the best Bond film I have ever seen at the cinema. Goldeneye has been my favourite but this takes Bond to a whole new level. For months, I had seen the trailer and had been firmly in the 'Daniel Craig will be shit' camp. How wrong we all were! Gone are the stupid gadgets and in its place a more Simon Bourne style approach. Bond fights, bleeds and has to change his shirt. Ok, so some of it is still a little bit of bollocks. I'd like to see anyone walk away from the car crash but you don't care. Your caught up in the excitement of it. Set pieces of action which blow you away. A card game which is so tense, you can barely breathe. Gorgeous women, a fit Bond for the ladies and a story arc which looks to follow on into the next Bond film! Excellent from start to finish and the long running time just flies by.

The Prestige (5*) is also superb and keeps Christopher Nolan as one of the hottest directors around. Memento is excellent, Batman Returns was good and The Prestige has a brilliantly multi-layer plot which keeps you on your toes before pulling the rug away and leaving you flat on your face. What I love about this movie is that your told everything you need to know at the start, yet it pulls of the magic trick because of simple sleight of hand. Your looking one way, when you should be looking the other. Christian Bale is superb, Hugh Jackman plays against character and is really good, even David Bowie makes an appearance in a pivotal role. Go into this movie with an open mind and you will be blown away. I did manage to guess the twist with about 15 minutes to go, but even then I had only guessed one little bit of it. Just don't tell anyone who hasn't seen it!

Borat (3*) was funny but way too overhyped and I think the 5 stars given to it by Empire magazine are really generous. Like I said it is funny, yet some of it just feels fake. Its offensive beyond belief, the Texan bigot is outrageous. The ending is poor and doesn't really fit the tone of the rest of the movie. I'll probably watch it on DVD and laugh my ass off again, it might of been one of those cinema visits where I just wasn't in the mood. The hotel naked wrestling scene is absolutely gross and you don't even want to watch it, yet your eyes are drawn to it like a moth to a flame. I feel sick just thinking about it.

This next film did actually make me heave in the cinema, Jackass Number 2 (4*). The Horse scene had me gagging away and nearly full on spewing on the floor. I would say that this is funnier than Borat. Some of the stuff that these guys do is just insane, really, truly insane! This was another great audience participation film and I can imagine getting a few beers in and watching this with a crowd of people all laughing, growning, heaving their way through 90 mins of Number 2!

Also went to watch Saw 3 (3*). Not much to say. Good, gross, nice use of back story but no where near as good as the other two.

A couple of great films on DVD, I am Sam (5*) and Hotel Rwanda (5*). Sam had me crying my eyes out! I was hungover, couldn't get back to sleep so thought I'd stick it on. Unbelievable movie! Sean Penn is incredible as the mentally retarded father who may lose his daughter because of the bureaucratic governmental laws. Cry, I was bloody hysterical! Rwanda was also excellent and not knowing much about the history behind it really opened my eyes to the tradegy that took place.

The Christmas month saw only a couple of cinema visits, but it did unveil another 5 star! Stranger than Fiction (5*) starring Will Ferrell has a great premise. What would you do if you heard a voice in your head, narrating your life, and it said you were going to die! It has a similar tone to Eternal sunshine of the Spotless mind, and Ferrell manages to restrain himself in this more serious role. Great supporting cast of Dustin Hoffman, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Emma Thomson all chip in to make this film feel really special. The relationship that blossoms from nothing and the impending death are worlds apart, yet strangely linked. I've read a couple of reviews say that the ending doesn't live up to the rest of the film. I disagree, fate, chance and destiny all make an appearance and it left me feeling warm inside!

Night at the Museum (2*) wasn't funny. It's as simple as that. The trailer looked good because it had all the funny bits in it. Really didn't enjoy. The only bit that made me laugh out loud was the Brokeback Mountain joke. With such a talented cast, this really should of been better.

And thats the lot! A real difficult choice this year to pick my best film. Mission Impossible was there for a while, The Departed nearly nicked it but I think it has to go to Lady in the Water. I can't wait to see it again, and then I will be lending it to you all to make sure you watch it! It just had it all for me and the idea that we all have a purpose seems to make sense.

Half way through January and we've already got a 5 star flick viewed at the big screen! Could be in for a great year!

Film Review of the Year 2005

2006-01-01T15:30:00.000Z

With another year gone by, I've returned to the Film Log to give a run down of the films I have watched over 2005.

Overall for new cinematic releases, I haven't been overly impressed by this years offerings. There have been some great movies and a large proportion that have not lived up to their potential. There have been some definite peaks and troughs through the year when I have been to the cinema for months and not seen anything decent before a few come along at once. I'm not going to limit this review to films that I have seen at the cinema as I have seen some real gems for the first time on DVD and some of them have really blown me away.

So, lets kick it off with a trip back to January!
A real poor start to year in terms of new films at the flicks. White Noise had a massive amount of potential and turned into a pile of steaming manure. One star is generous, and the worst thing of all that a sequel has been commissioned! Team America was funny in patches. No where near as good as the South Park movie. Matt Damon's character in it is very funny though! One gem that appeared from no where was National Treasure with Nic Cage. I have watched this movie quite a few times this year and it is a hark back to the day of old school story telling. A really good story and plenty to keep you interested. A Tale of Two sisters scared and confused me in equal measures. Anyone who is fed up with braindeadhollywood films should definitely check this out and then try and explain the ending to me!!!

I also managed to watch Straw Dogs. The film has dated badly and its like a hardcore version of Home Alone. I can fully appreciate that when it came out it would of been shocking.

February and the dry patch in the cinema continued. Then suddenly from no where, a dirty, filthy British horror film shocked me and the rest of the cinema. Creep. Fantastic film with some really graphic imaginary that sticks around for a while after you have finished watching. Blood, guts, scares and tension. Holds up well on DVD too with the lights off!!

The majority of other films that were of any note I watched on DVD. Monster was great, although it wasn't quite the first 5 star film of the year. Super Size me made me laugh as did Anchorman. I finally got round to watching the first Saw and ruined the film by guessing the twist after about 2 minutes of watching the film. Now, I never normally do this as I get sucked into watching the film and am open to being manipulated with the final twist. Very dark movie which when I watched for the second time on DVD showed its true worth. Man on Fire brought together Tony Scott and Denzil Washington - Bit long but very entertaining. Films to avoid would of been The One with Jet Li - Awful!

The March came along and not just one 5 star movie but 3 in short succession. None of them at the cinema mind!!

The best film of the year so far at the flicks was Constantine. Keanu Reeves picking another gem of a movie to star in. Awesome special effects and a really good story. Dark, moody, menacing with a really good ending. Great special edition DVD too!!

The first 5 star films were City of God. A Brazilian masterpiece which looks at the criminal underworld. Excellent narrative throughout in the same vein as Goodfellas with the story being told over a period of time. You have to try and see this movie its great.

Then along came million Dollar Baby. The twist knocked me out and the acting in the final third is superb. Really clever, simple film with a heartbreaking ending that will leave even the most hardest of hearts with a crack in it.

If your heart wasn't cracked by MDB then Old Boy will just blatantly rip it out. A Korean movie about a guy who is thrown into prison and given no reason for being held. The movie then follows our so called hero as he finds out what has happened to him. Not for the squeamish this one and it is really dark towards the end. Another great example of how Asian cinema is setting the tone for Hollywood to follow. Get people thinking before, during and after a movie.

On the piss poor front, Open Water. Blair Witch meet Jaws was the tag line. This film should never ever be mentioned along these two films. It is awful in every way.

April saw a couple of surprises. Hitch made me laugh my head off and was subsequently watched by everyone I know! Will Smith is great in this movie and even if the ending is a bit cheesy, you just get dragged along for the Cheddar filled fun! The Ring 2 really disappointed. Better than most horror films, yet lacking in structure and originality. The original is so much better and deserved a better sequel than this. Blade Trinity kicked ass and made a nice ending to a fun trilogy.

The remakes of old horror movies continued this yet and just as Texas Chainsaw massacre was enhanced so was The Amityville Horror. The original is dreadful. This remake is fantastic and it is truly scary stuff. Ryan Reynolds is fantastic as George who slowly but surely is taken over by the powers of the house. Really caught be by surprise this one and is certainly one of my favourites of the year.

Napolean Dynamite was a film that I rented out as it had quite a cult following. One word - Weird!! Very funny an the story is as simple as it gets. A geek tries to become cool. Strange yet compelling viewing!

May finally gave me the opportunity to see a 5 star movie at the cinema and it again completely caught me off guard. I hadn't heard much about the film and came out feeling pretty much every emotion possible. The Jacket stars Adrian Brody and Keira Knightley and is an amazing Donnie Darko style film with time jumps and a great ending. I love this movie and I was really moved by it. A lot to think about and some fantastic performances within.

Caught Mystic River and The Hurricane on DVD which both deserve 5 stars. Clint Eastwood again proving he is one of the best in the business with Mystic and Denzil Washington showing that he is awesome if he's given the right script.

On the Horror front, The House of Was was another remake and this bombed! Not even Paris Hilton getting a massive pole through her head can save this. Hitchhikers guide to the Galaxy was over hyped and wasn't very good, while XXX2 was as cheesy as cheese can get.

June saw another 5 star flick - Sin City. Totally different from anything I have seen this year in style and content. Its dark, foreboding, violent with a story and cast to die for. My only complaint is the awful DVD that they have released in this country. Please release the Region 1 directors cut!!!

Batman Begins really let me down at the cinema. I very nearly fell asleep in it as it goes on for ages. No real bad guy and a simple ending which ruins the brilliant first half. Then I watched this film again on DVD in October and changed my mind! This movie is good, not as good as it should be but definitely worthy of 4 stars.

On a personal note, the movies I Watched during June were all pretty good. The Woodsman blew me away. So powerful that its hard to not end up rooting for someone that your not sure you should. Kevin Bacon plays the role of a sex offender released from prison into society with so much emotion that you just get sucked into and the awkwardness of later scenes are tearing you apart as you see them unfold. Closer is a real relationship movie. Maybe a little bit close to home the first time I saw this. The break up scenes are really hard to watch if you have been through anything similar. Fantastic performances all round with a great ending which contradicts the whole film! Matchstick men with Nic Cage playing a compulsive obsesive con man is awesome and Undead shows how the zombie movie can still be fun!

July is short and sweet. War of the Worlds was awesome. The second watch is just as good and you have to give Tom Cruise credit. When was the last time he made a poor movie?! The opening act is so tense and fierce that you immediately get connected with the family and the underground scene with Tim Robbins is Speilberg at his dark and sinister best.

When Dog Soldiers was released it came from nowhere. The Descent had a lot to live up to and it more than delivers. Neil Marshall certainly has a flair for horror and if he keeps coming up with new and interesting movies then I will continue to go and see them. A group of girls, pot holing, monsters, blood, and killings! Fantastic. An then on the comedy side of things, The Wedding Crashers is a great contender for funniest movie of the year.

After this point the cinematic treats started to dry up and it was up to the older movies on DVD to show their worth. The 40 Year old virgin gave Wedding crashers a run for its money in the comedy section whilst Charlie and the Chocolate factory showed that Johnny Depp and Tim Burton are a partnership made in chocolate heaven. Excellent set pieces, special effects, costume, and casting! Roald Dahl would be proud of this!

Then what happened, The Skeleton Key was awful. A definite contender for worst film of the year. Kate Hudson needs a new agent! Voodoo, possession and a big fat pile of horse crap! Madagascar was a real let down and cant come close to competing with Shrek or Ice Age.

On DVD, the remake of Assault on 13th Preceint was so bad that I didn't even watch the last ten minutes. So, so, so bad!!

August was redeemed with one movie. The Machinist. Christian Bale in a film which just completely sucked me in and blew back out the other side. An insomniac who hasn't slept for a year starts seeing things and his life takes a further turn for the worse. If this film had been in the cinema this year, then it would of been right up there for 2005 film of the year. I cannot praise this film enough. Other notable mentions go to Clerks, confidence and Switchblade Romance. SR is one of the sickest films I have ever seen!! Uber violent with a really messed up twist!

Poor cinema in September. Wes Craven came back and then might as well of not bothered with Red Eye. The first 70 minutes awesome and then the film unravels into an awful chase movie. This aint no Nightmare on Elm street or Scream that's for sure. 2 gems on DVD though. The Aviator definitely gets 5 stars. I loved it. Yes, it goes on for ages. It doesn't feel like it though and Leonardo Di Caprio again puts in a performance which just amazes.

For pure fighting action check out Ong Bak. Tony Jaa is unbelievable. All the fight scenes are real contact and the stunts involved are mental. Flaming knees, broken bones. A great film. The storyline is nothing special but that plays second filled to the best fight scenes I have seen in ages.

October wasn't a bad month and it did see another 5 star movie at the flicks. Saw 2 scared the living daylights out of me. I was horrified when I came out. I was so scared walking home and I just could not stop thinking about this film. I cannot wait for it to come out on DVD. If you thought the first movie was clever then this is genius! So dark is almost unwatchable in places and the set pieces are horrific. Loved it!

I saw my first Russian film at the cinema this month with Nightwatch thoroughly impressing me. Great story (which I definitely need to see again on DVD before the sequel) and some action scenes that defy logic. Definitely some resemblances to the Matrix and Blade, and in my eyes that's not a bad thing!

Green Street showed Football factory how to do football hooliganism. Nasty film with some evil fights with a brilliant story. Yes, that's right a brilliant story in a football hooliganism movie!

On DVD, I saw some amazing films. Sideways was great - another 5 stars. An alcoholic road movie which is funny and touching. Purely character driven story gives an interesting in sight into loneliness and loyalty. Finally got round to watching Schindlers List for the first time. I visited Anne Frank's house shortly afterwards and was really moved by this film. Certainly, not an easy film to watch, well worth the effort though - 5 stars. Into the Mirror was another 5 star movie. An Asian thriller with some great Alice in Wonderland style nuances.

Films to avoid - Kingdom of Heaven - Rubbish!

November saw one good movie on DVD and nothing in the cinema. The Virgin Suicides is easily recognisable as a Sofia Copplla movie especially if you have seen Lost in Translation. I thought it was really good. Quite a morbid tale and Kirstin Dunst's performance is great.

This month gave me the opportunity to watch some of Peter Jacksons back catalogue. I shouldn't of bothered Brain Dead and Bad taste are both utter crap.

So, the final month - December. 2 very good films at the cinema. The Chronicles of Narnia was brilliant. Not quite a 5 stars but very close. Really took me back to my youth and was very faithful to the book. A very clever emotional undertone for the death of one of the main characters which saw a few dry eyes when I visited the flicks. Great special effects and the kids can actually act!

Another surprise package this month though with The Exorcism of Emily Rose. 5 stars for a courtroom horror film! I was so impressed and scared that I could not stop thinking about this film for the whole night afterwards. So much better than I thought it was going to be and worthy of its box office rewards.

King Kong was ok, totally style over content and 3 hours is WAY TOO LONG!!

So, there we have it. Sin City and The Jacket get my vote as my joint favourites off the year with War of the Worlds a very close second.

Have a great year in 2006 all.

Gav

The Bourne Supremacy

2004-09-14T18:17:00.001+01:00

The Bourne Supremacy

2 years ago, The Bourne Identity came from no where to become one of the sleeper hits of the year. Now, Matt Damon is back as the amnesiac Jason Bourne and this time he his really mad. The film starts two years on from the last one with Bourne and his girlfriend hiding out in Goa in India. Bourne is constantly paranoid and haunted by dreams of his past killings which still fail to give him a total recall of his past life. Maris has stuck by Bourne but is always trying to help him regain his past memories by writing down what he remembers.

It's not long before the pairs hideaway is rumbled, and an unknown assassin is seen stalking the pair. Bourne uses all his skills to try to elude the assassin but things take a turn for worst when his girlfriend is killed in a fantastic opener to the film. This sends Bourne on a one man mission to try to find out what the hell is going on. Now, this might sound like the storyline to an Arnie film like commando but its fair from it. Bourne is clever, slick, stealthly and above all not to be messed with.

On the other side of the pond, an FBI mission goes haywire when several agents are killed and the powers are be immediately want revenge. But, all the evidence leads to one man, Bourne. So, now Bourne is the hunter and the hunted, and where as in the first film Bourne hid, this time he's not taking no for an answer. Brian Cox returns as Ward Abbott, the leader of Treadstone (the undercover ops team), but this time the power resides with Pamela Landy (Joan Allen). Double crosses and power struggles are rithe and no-one really knows what's going on. This is where the film becomes a stand out and manages to distance itself from the cheesy, weapon hungry Bond films. Intelligence is required to follow the difficult storyline, and the intelligence used by Bourne to find out the answers is at times incredible.

Damon really has found his calling, and its great to see that his career path as continually risen where as his partner in crime, Ben Affleck is stuck filming awful films like Jersey Girl. The rest of the cast support Damon well, and the FBI ensemble team bounce off each other really well. Julia Stiles returns and this time her role is more integral to the storyline, and acts as the only real fanciable female role. It's quite refreshing to see a film of this nature where the lead man is constantly saving the girl, or in Bond's case hopping beds.

The only criticism I have (also mentioned by a couple of the cinema club members) is the intense flash editing which at times make it difficult to comprehend what is going on. The fight scenes are still brutally realistic but lack a style due to the crazy jump shots. This is a minor criticism it has to be said, and the end car chase certainly makes up for this. The exit from the supermarket towards the end is very clever, and the following pursuit has to be seen to be believed. This is what a car chase would really be like, not the Bond style where the hero's vehicle emerges without a scratch.

The Bourne Supremacy certainly builds on the first film and develops Bourne character immensely. Possibly, better than the first and leaves you eager for a third, forget Bond, James Bond, remember, Bourne, Jason Bourne.

2004-09-14T18:17:00.000+01:00

Bourne in a spot of bother!

Trouble a-brewing like a pot of tea!

2004-09-14T18:08:00.000+01:00

Due to unforeseen technical difficulties, or the cinema club wanting to watch the the chronicles of riddick, Anchorman is going to be postponed until next week. Therefore, the cinema club is still going to meet up but a couple of us are going to watch Bourne Supremacy. So this review should be available within the next few days. The updates haven't been very frequent over the last two weeks due to my life taking a rather different turn, than I could of ever imagined. Single after 3 years, not my choosing. Everyone knows the details so we'll keep that to a minimum. So like the Littlest Hobo, I'll just keep rolling on!

Anchorman

2004-09-09T22:50:00.000+01:00

Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy

The cinema club grew to nine members on tuesday, a new record! So next week, it's Anchorman. This looks stupid but hopefully will be funny as hell. It will have to go some to beat Dodgeball, but am looking forward to it. Review next week.

Hellboy

2004-09-09T21:49:00.000+01:00

Hellboy

Well, the blockbuster season draws to an end and the serious contenders for next years Oscars start to hit the cinema. This is stuck firmly in the former category, a comic book blockbuster. Big special effects, explosions, no plot and cheesy lines. Firstly, a lot of people will be going 'Hellboy, never bloody heard of him'. Indeed, this is true I had never heard of it, and unfortunately I wish this was still the case as this film stinks more than mcdonalds garbage bags.

Ron Perlman stars as Hellboy, a paranormal creature sucked into this universe by Nazi's at the end of world war 2. 60 years later, the same Nazi bastards with the help of an immortal Rasputin are at it again, trying to end in the world in an apocalyptic nightmare. Sounds like a great idea hey! I can hear the computer geeks rummaging in their pants now. The film starts out well but after twenty minutes just becomes boring and silly with Hellboy constantly mugging at the camera with cheesy one-liners. The special effects are good, the make up is awesome, but these don't make a good movie. Two hours for a comic book fantasy, felt like an eternity and the whole cinema seemed to be willing the film to end.

It's difficult to write anything else about this film, because I became so bored that I was nearly falling asleep. The love interest is ridiculous, no human being is going to fall for a devil looking 6 foot 5 man who has horns growing from his skull. But, its a fantasy film I hear you cry. This may be true but its set in the real world, with real people, so its not that fantasy. There's not much else to say, some people will probably like this film if there into marvel comics etc, but the majority of the cinema going public would rather pull out teeth with a pair of pliers. Or put it this way, why pay £3 to go to sleep? I can do that for free at home!!

Just don't go and watch this ok!!

2004-09-09T21:48:00.000+01:00

Hellboy's love interest

Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story

2004-08-28T15:09:00.000+01:00

Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story

Sleeper hits are often the surprise of the summer. The huge blockbusters go by, make a bit of cash and disappear into the sunset. The opening weekends are massive, then everyone tells everyone else how it wasn't really that good, and the following weekend the figures have plummeted, and the obligatory sequel is put on hold. Sleepers pop up from no where, open slowly and then continue to grow over the forthcoming weeks as word of mouth grows. So, the question is Where the hell did Dodgeball come from?

It's usual that films released in one month have been really heavily promoted from months before. Websites, teaser trailers, posters, magazine interviews, causing pr guru's across the land to spend huge amounts of money. The first time I heard about Dodgeball was when it flew into the USA movie charts at number one. Steven's Spielberg's film The Terminal was beaten to the top spot, which also gave Spielberg his worst opening weekend since Amistad. Now, Spielberg must be pretty pissed, because even he must of wondered where Dodgeball had come from.

Dodgeball: A true underdog story (to give it it's full title) is fairly standard in structure and plot wise it reminded me a lot of Kingpin. Although, the outcome is never in doubt, the storyline races along with too many hilarious moments to mention. Stiller plays White Goodman, the owner of a rather large gym called Globo gym. The persona is completely over the top and Stiller manages to squeeze every last laugh from this sleazeball of a character. On the other side of the street is Average Joe's gym owned by Peter Da Fleur (Vince Vaughn). The gym is run down and the punters are of all shapes and sizes. Peter doesn't really have a goal in life and just likes ambling on without worrying about anything. Because of this the gym has suffered and subsquently is in danger of being bought out by Globo gym. Unless, of course, Peter can come up with $50,000 to pay off the second mortgage.

Peter and his motley crew decide to enter the national Dodgeball competition to try to win the grand prize of.......Guess for it.........$50,000!!! Thus starts the film on its merry way to the joyful conclusion. The appearance of Rip Torn as Patches O'Houlihan, a national Dodgeball hero, brings some of the funniest moments of the film. His foul mouth and dodgeball training techniques are hilarious, and Torn manages to steal a lot of the funniest one liners (similar to his appearance in Men in Black). The team members involving a fat man with a male order bride, a wannabe pirate(Alan Tudyk, Sunny from I,Robot (honestly)), a dweeb who's looking for love and a cheerleading love struck teen (Justin Long from Jeepers Creepers). Each character brings about its individual laughs and manage to bounce off each other well.

The actual sport is pretty silly and involves throwing a ball as hard as you can at your opponents. It really is amazing how seeing someone getting smacked in the face or the balls can be funny. It's obvious a lot of thought has gone into the rules and spectacle of the Dodgeball tournament. The ESPN channel section is great and the commentaters are so enthusiastic its cringing! There are so many little jokes that this film should still be funny after several watches because you'll laugh at different things.

This leads us on to the age old question is Ben Stiller funny? At times, his Goldman character is ridicously over the top. I was worried at the start of the film if I was going to find this funny after seeing Starksy and Hutch earlier this year. Luckily, my doubts were seen off right at the start of the film. The opening sequence immediately gives you an idea of Stiller's character. Pompous, arrogant, rich, sleazy and slimy. But, ultimately very funny. A definite contender for funniest character of the year. As, for the film its probably managed to offend every different section of the American community so lets just let it do it here and laugh while it happens!

2004-08-28T15:06:00.000+01:00

Ben Stiller camps it up in Dodgeball

The Village

2004-08-23T20:38:00.000+01:00

The Village

The Sixth Sense rocked the world. The cries of 'no way he's dead' could be heard throughout the universe, and proved that Bruce Willis could truly act. Unbreakable followed a similar slow methodical pace with a really devious twist that caught the majority of people by surprise. Signs brought an alien invasion to earth, yet still managed to make you leave the cinema shaking your head questioning everything you'd just seen. Welcome to the world of M.Night Shyamalan.

The Village is the fourth film by M.Night Shyamalan, and the setting is completely different to anything that has come before it. Now, its very difficult to write about a film of this nature as the smallest piece of information could enable you to guess the twist. But, here lies a problem. When the Sixth Sense was released, no one thought for a minute that Bruce was dead. No-one was expecting it and that's what made the film so clever. The more films, that you have seen of Shymalan, the more you start to question what your actually watching. What's real? What's not? Where's the twist? The slow pacing involved in all of the previous films allows the viewer to be drawn into the film and this makes the twist hit home harder than it possibly should. And this is the contencious issue, some people love his work and others hate it, and there's very little room in between. A certain amount of patience is required to stick with the characters and actions that build up to the reveal, and people expecting a scary film that will constantly have you jumping out of your seat should not go and watch this movie.

The film is based in a segregated community similar to the omish or Mormon societies. Next to the village is a large section of woodland which is inhabited by some kind of creature. The villagers do not enter the wood, and the creatures do not enter the village. An amicable agreement between the differing parties. The Village is led by a group of elders who act as a council, making decisions on behalf of their own community. William Hurt and Sigourney Weaver make up a section of the council, and it's their son and daughter which form the integral relationship of the film. Hurt's daughter is in love with Weaver's son (Joaquin Phoenix) and the feeling is mutual but difficult surroundings make it hard for their relationship to form. Bryce Dallas Howard (Ron Howard's daughter) makes her film debut as Hurt's daughter, Ivy. This is the standout performance of the film. Ivy is blind but has an amazing sense of here surroundings whether it be by smell, hearing or the colours that her eyes can identify.

The rest of the supporting cast all have there bit parts, but the talent available in the film isn't given the fullest opportunity to express themselves. Weaver is under used. Brendan Gleeson is also lacking in screen time. Adrian Brody stars as a mentally challenged young man, in a similar vain to Leonardo Di Caprio in What's eating Gilbert grape? Great physical acting, and an emotional side which demonstrates Brody's Oscar winning talents. Ultimately though, the ensemble feel does pay off, as the final twist incorporates everyone.

I thoroughly enjoyed this film and found it to be a very clever and thoughtful movie. The twist will not be liked by all, and this was evident in the bemused faces of some patrons as I left the local cinema. It's difficult to say much more, as you have to just become involved in the film to truly appreciate the ending. The only advise I can offer is go in with an open mind and try to absorb the film, don't look to hard for the twist and you should be pleasantly surprised or totally amazed.

2004-08-23T20:35:00.000+01:00

The Village

Christmas Cheer! Not this year!

2004-08-17T19:56:00.000+01:00

Lemony Snicket

The Grinch that stole christmas was the biggest grossing film of 2000. It was a massive hit and had Jim Carrey in full on mental mode! 7 hours of make up to transform him into the evil Grinch. Now, most people in work know that i think Jim Carrey is the greatest and i also get ribbed a lot for this. But, Jim's new film is looking to repeat the huge box office take of the Grinch with Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate events.

Based on a series of kid's books which are huge in the USA, Jim stars as Count Olaf. Go to the link and watch the trailer, you can already see that it looks like Jim's back to his best. After, a couple of years of being fairly quite, this could be the film that keeps Jim at the top of the comedy box office.

Along Came Polly

2004-08-17T09:20:00.000+01:00

Along Came Polly

Romantic comedies seem to pop up everywhere these days, and unfortunately the majority of them are carbon copies of others. It's pretty difficult to come up with new situations for people to fall in love. Jennifer Aniston has already starred in a fair few of these rom-coms none of which have been very good. Stiller on the other hand has made a living playing the geek, the awkward mumbler who comes a cropper at all the wrong times.

Along came polly is a fairly simple story which you will already know the ending from ten minutes in, but the route along the way is the fun part, and there are laughs to be had. Ben Stiller is Reuben Feffer, the happiest man on the planet as he marries his partner and goes off for an amazing honeymoon. The trouble is that his now wife cheats on him on the first day with a scuba driving instructor. Reuben is devastated and returns to America to try to get on with his life. His job as a risk accessor has turned him into an analytical nightmare. He's nervous, and scared of taking any chances. His life changes though when he bumps into Polly Prince (Jennifer Aniston), a friend from his much younger school days. Polly is the exact opposite of Reuben, she is indecisive and afraid of commitment, yet that manage to form a friendship.

After Starksy and Hutch, I had started to wonder if Ben Stiller was funny any more. Sometime his awkward comedy style just doesn't fit with me and find my self cringing at the screen and wanting to turn the channel. Meet the Parents is another example, of Stiller playing a loser who encounters various accidents. Along came polly doesn't seem to have as much of the cringing American comedy style, but the comedy set pieces are similar to those that have come to before. Think Harry on the toilet in Dumb and Dumber and you'll be pretty close.

Phillip Seymour Hoffman puts in another very funny supporting role as Reuben's wingman, Sandy Lyle. Sandy is famous for starring in a film when he was child, but the acting work has now dried up, yet Sandy's ego has managed to grow! Hoffman comes out with some brilliantly funny lines, and his timing is perfect. Another supporting character also manages to bag himself some of the best scenes of the film. Bryan Brown (Doug Coughlin from Cocktail) plays Leland Van Lew, an extreme sport loving , danger hunting executive who needs to get life insurance in order to take over his company. Ultimately, the decision lies with Reuben and his computer software.

Aniston puts in another average performance, and seems very similar to all of her other film roles. Although, Aniston has had the best film run out of the 'Friends' cast, she hasn't exactly had a sure fit hit. This is probably her best film to date.

I was pleasantly surprised by this film and did laugh out loud on several occasions, but like I mentioned before it just seemed that every scene could of been taken from a different movie. Stiller does manage to be funny without making you cringe, whilst the story skips along at a fair pace. It was perfect for watching on a Sunday afternoon when you don't have to think to hard to follow on. Nothing spectacular, but a funny solid effort.

2004-08-17T09:19:00.000+01:00

Bryan Brown Goes EXTREME in Along came Polly!!

Dark Water

2004-08-16T21:00:00.000+01:00

Dark Water

It's amazing how watching one foreign film has opened by eyes to some amazing films over the last couple of months. The film to blame for this is the American version of Ringu, The Ring. Having loved this film so much I went out and bought my first foreign film on DVD. The Ringu trilogy are all great films, and Dark Water is almost an extension of these films. Hideo Nakata the director of the first two Ringu's has created another masterpiece of tension with an underlying film which brings about a sadness that very few films manage to achieve. Dark Water is also based on a book by KÃ´ji Suzuki who wrote the Ring, which explains the similarities in tone and themes.

The storyline is simple, a mother involved in divorce proceedings moves into an old apartment block with her 6 year old daughter. The weather at the time is awful and water starts to leak through the ceiling of the flat. As the mother tries to rebuild her life and get a job, she unknowlingly neglects her daughter in the very same way that she was a child. As the water coming through the ceiling gets worse and worse, a small child is seen prowling within the apartment building. The tension is bulit through simple techniques of slow building scenes, very little sound and dialogue and most of the time you create the creepiness within your own head. Some aspects of the film really do mirror Ringu, with the back story to the small child very similar to Sadako (the girl in the well). But beneath it all, the maternal aspects of life and a feeling of safety through motherhood shines through for a feel good ending.

It'll be amazing to see what the American version of this film will be like starring Jennifer Connolly and Tim Roth, as you certainly require a certain amount of patience to watch this version due to the lack of action. I'm certain that it will be acceralated in terms of story and shock horrors, but will probably remove the 'having to use your brain' aspects of the film which will be a great shame.

Deep Rising

2004-08-16T20:37:00.000+01:00

Deep Rising

It's Friday night, I turn on the television and see a film starting. I start watching without knowing the name or the story. Great, I think. Twenty minutes in I was starting to get annoyed because I still didn't know what the film was called. Then, I start to get an inkling that it was Deep Rising. How? I hear you cry. Crap direction and god damn awful special effects that would be better off on a spectrum. That's how.

The first Stephen Sommers film I ever saw was The Mummy. I enjoyed it, cheesy one liners, average acting, good set pieces and pretty good CGI. It reminded me of Indianna Jones and Romancing the stone. Then came the sequel, cheesy one liners, average acting and one of the worst displays of CGI ever and a storyline fit for the bin. Recently, I caught Van Helsing. Another film by Sommers, with a similar theme! The answer seems to be that if the story is suffering, whack some CGI in and everything will be ok. The problem is, if your CGI looks like a pile of garbage, then nobody's going to get excited. No one is going to believe in the film, and the rest of it suffers accordingly.

Deep Rising is without a doubt, AWFUL. The acting is dreadful. Every Single stereotypical character that is normally present in a action/monster/horror film is here, the normal guy who manages to kick ass, the female love interest and a untrustworthy rich man! The actors aren't A-list and the film looks like it could of been made for channel 5.

Treat Williams (WHO?) takes the lead as John Finnegan. A man who is forced to join a gang of hi-jackers trying to take over a luxury cruise ship. Jason Flemyng (Lock, Stock and The league of extraodinary gentlemen) appears as one of the henchmen, as does Wes Studi (Sagat from Street fighter:the movie). As I said A-list this aint! The only real recognizable actor is Famke Janssen (Goldeneye and X-men) who stars as Trillian St. James. The cruise liner is deserted and there are no bodies anywhere. It's not long before the motley crew discover the cause. A giant squid like monster that swallows you whole and dissolves your body in acid while your still alive.

My immediate reaction to this was RIPOFF! One horrible and probably the only decent part of the movie sees one the crew shot from the inside of the squids tentacles after being half-dissolved. This is straight from Aliens and by now I'd really had enough. So when, Anthony held (Hannibal Lektor's dinner from the end of Silence of the lambs) turned up as the untrustworthy rich man, I had already guessed the entire storyline of the film. A 4 year old could follow what was going to happen next!

I very rarely stop watching a film part of the way through. Deep Rising only managed to escape this because I didn't know what it was called. Please for the love of god, only watch this film if you want to see how bad it is. If you want to enjoy yourself, you'd be better of watching the late Friday film on channel 5.

IRREVERSIBLE

2004-08-16T20:25:00.000+01:00

Irreversible

The French are definetly strange creatures is my first point after seeing this remarkable film. Most recently French cinema seems to of undergone a transformation especially in the eyes of the British cinema going public, Amelie propelled French cinema into the lives and living rooms of normal British citizens who normally wouldn't dare to watch a film with subtitles. Now Amelie is a great film but one of its predecessors is a mile better. Delicatessen shares a similar cast, due to the director Jean-Pierre Jeunet and is a darker, more mysterious film. Irreversible on the other hand goes further than any film I have seen recently. Dark, moody and down right shocking in places with its graphic depiction of violence in a natural environment. This could take place in any city, in any country, right now. It doesn't require a futuristic setting like Kubrick's A clockwork Orange, that's why it seems so much realer.

It's impossible to really explain the film without giving too much away. The joy of watching it for the first time will never be repeated as you will know what's coming next, but its not your standard story or time line. Based around the life of a couple Alex and Marcus, and their friend Pierre (who happens to be Alex's ex). The rapid destruction of the 3 lives takes seconds but no doubt the consequences will live with all 3 forever.

A simple morale runs through the entire story - time changes everything. This couldn't be more true with this film. Starting at a point which would make anyone feel physically sick and ending with a lovely scene which brings everything together and brings a sense of joy to a film that really shouldn't make you feel happy. It's almost coming away with a guilty feeling of warmness from a deep foreboding film that could play on your mind for days.

Having been told about this, but not really knowing too much a bout it definitely made the experience better, so I'll leave you to make your own mind up about a film that has no doubt changed the way French cinema will be portrayed in a much more sinister way than Delicatessen or Amelie could ever imagine.

Torque

2004-08-16T20:04:00.002+01:00

Torque

The Fast and the furious went down a storm when it was first released, but unfortunately it led to a genre of film based around it. Biker boys came first and then 2 Fast 2 Furious. Biker boys was alright, and I think that the second Fast and furious is possibly batter than the first. So this leads us onto the next installment, Torque.

Martin Henderson stars as Ford, who is on the run from the police after a Biker group had hidden drugs in a motorbike he was fixing up. With the FBI looking for him, Ford has returned home from Thailand to try to settle things. It's not long before Ford has managed to find himself in a spot of bother with another site of Bikers led by Trey (Ice T). The story then focuses on the imploding situation between the police, the bikers and Ford, who continually tries to clear his name.

It's obvious from the get go that this film isn't going to take itself too seriously, and it was at this point that I took my brain out and carried on watching. Definitely a popcorn type of movie, although hopefully, you will still come away from it with a smile on your face. The acting is okay, and probably all that could of been hoped for from a script that is littered with cheesy chunks.

'I live my life a quarter mile of a time'

Cheddar overload! But, its the fast past and chase sequences that manage to make the film watchable. There are some ridiculous elements with bike chases on top and through a moving train, and outrageous wheelies and spins in a forest. They are well performed and the computer effects are good right up till the very end. Its during these sequences you end up cheering on the goodies, exactly as the filmmakers planned.

The problem lies with the ending. A simple idea it may be, but the CG is dreadful. Think The Rock in The Mummy returns as the scorpion king and multiply the crapness to the millionth power and you'll be some where close. A chase sequence with bikes going at speeds beyond possible should of been brilliant, but it ends up looking like a comic book. I can't describe how bad they look, it is almost cringing at points, that the producers actually expected you to think that the actors were actually doing the chase. This did really put a dampener on the film for me as I had really enjoyed the no brainer aspect up till the end.

So, its obvious that this film is never going to win any awards, but it doesn't make it crap. Watch this film with a few beers, a few mates and you'll probably enjoy it. Watch it on our own and believe its going to be the next Oscar winner, and you'll be leaving with a bad taste in your mouth.

Amores Perros a.k.a Love's a bitch

2004-08-16T20:04:00.001+01:00

Amores Perros

Since Pulp Fiction, interlinked stories have continually been used in films as a clever technique to involve convoluted tales, twists and turns. Most of these have failed to live up to a film that shouldn't be imitated. Therefore, as soon as it becomes apparent that a film has several stories overlayed, or the perspective of a single event seen by others, comparison's start to fly. This isn't to say that films like this aren't original as Amores Perros manages to convey every emotion possible into two and half hours of deeply involving screen time.

The central premise is simple. A car crash in Mexico links three central characters. Octavio (Gael García Bernal) loves his brothers wife and is desperate to escape his mundane rundown Mexican town. Valeria is a fashion model who believes looks are everything and lives in a very superficial world, and El Chivo, a run down old man with no family who carries out 'hits' for cash.

The films narrative is broken into three chapters, and focuses before and after the car crash. Although, the chapters break down the film and focus on a specific set of characters, this doesn't mean that the other characters are forgotten as soon as their piece is finished. It's amazing how the film manages to tie up all the loose ends. A very clever underlying theme of the relationships with dogs also helps this.

The acting within each segment is superb with another superb turn by Bernal (Y tu mama tabien), with the emotions portrayed by the central characters ranging from extreme anger to over-whelming happiness. Yet, they can be immediately felt by the viewing audience. Sometimes, the drama unfolding is almost too realistic, an example being continued used of 'dog baiting' which at times is impossible to see how they've actually filmed it, without injuring the dogs. As for the car crash, the director has gone for realism, over spectacle.

The film lags slightly in the middle third, and could certainly of been cut down to make it a little more fast paced. Yet, its impossible to draw yourself away from the screen , due to the connections that can be made with each of the central characters. The first chapter whizzes by yet seems to encompass so much detail, the second chapter really focuses on the helplessness of someone's life that is changed forever, and the third manages to represent how life can change for the better.

For this to be Alejandro González Iñárritu first film is incredible, and will hopefully lead onto many more films that challenge the audience to think rather than switch off. Brilliantly shot, remarkably touching, and great performances from the cast create an incredibly deep film which will hopefully keep you thinking long after the final credits roll.

I, Robot

2004-08-16T20:04:00.000+01:00

I, Robot

Isaac Asimov is the king of robotics. His short stories which manage to incorporate 3 laws of robotics have been milling around the cinematic arena for years, but how could they ever be converted to film. Well, add amazing computer graphics, one of the biggest stars in the world, Will Smith, and storyline that actually makes you think, and your pretty close!

It was never going to be possible to fully incorporate Asimov's ideas or fully recreate his stories, therefore, this film focuses on a society where robots have developed to such an extent that there should be one in every home. The three laws premise is used to it's fullest extent, and develops the story in a subtle way. The basic ideas behind the rules are that robots are unable to harm humans, or allow them to be harmed. Although, broken down to this level, it does sound quite basic, but it's the intricate plot that keeps your mind searching for the answers.

Will Smith plays Detective Spooner, who is returning to work after a long period of time due to an car accident. He is quite skeptical of the robots introduction into society, and has very little trust because of their standardized way of thinking. Things start to hot up, when Spooner comes across an apparent suicide involving the death of Dr. Alfred Lanning (James Cromwell) who spawned the three laws of robotics. This leads us into a complicated 'whodunit' with the lead suspect in the suspicious death being a robot named Sonny.

The supporting cast support Smith well, who himself manages to put in a brilliant performance with just a touch of the wise-cracking that we normally associate the fresh prince with. Bridget Moynahan (The Recruit, Coyote Ugly) stars as Susan Calvin, a scientist who worked alongside Lanning. As the only real female character in the film does manage to keep up with the frenetic pace, but also appears slightly (excuse the pun!) robotic.

Whilst not being quite as serious as Miniorty Report, it does feel similar with the amazing use of computer graphics to expand the futuristic world laid out in front of you. But, always managing to keep the movie going whether it be robot filled set pieces or extended scenes of plot revelations. At the end, it really does become quite a mystery, and the final twist is quite refreshing.

Alex Proyas past films have always tended to be quite dark i.e. The Crow, Dark City. I, Robot has touches of dark but the ending should ultimately leave you with a happy feeling, yet it is produced without the general overblown cheesy endings of your average summer blockbuster. Although, the blatant product placement for a pair of shoes and a certain make of car stinks of corporatism and could of quite possibly been forced upon Proyas, so I'll cut him some slack.

If you think that your going to get gung-ho action, dialogue making you laugh constantly and a plot line with more holes that a block of cheese, then go watch Spiderman because this is one summer blockbuster that actually holds it's own against some of the more intellectual films realized this year.

Y TU Mama Tabien (And your mother too...)

2004-08-16T20:03:00.000+01:00

Y Tu Mama Tambien

A road trip movie with 2 weed smokin, sex crazed Mexican kids probably sounds like the next installment of the growing list of American pie, old skool, road trip gross out comedies. However, this is nothing of the sort. Although, it does have funny moments, some disgusting antics, explicit sex scenes and language to make your mum blush, it manages to delve deeper into friendship, relationships and growing older.

The story is fairly simple and it leaves a lot to the imagination in the building of the two central characters, Tenoch and Julio. Two friends whose girlfriends are leaving to go traveling in Italy. There are differences between the two, mainly involving there family and upbringing. As the girlfriends leave, the lads immediately start to party and think about the girls will and what they'll be getting up to with the Italian men.

The relationship between the two to is quickly established, smoke loads of weed, drink loads of booze and masturbate as often as possible. It's difficult to see anything ever coming between the two, but the arrival of an older women (as it always is!) leads to a road trip that will bring the pair to breaking point.

The emotional core of the film is quite touching at moments and the performances are fantastic. The sexual dialogue between the three is hilarious, graphics but it sits perfectly with the open attitudes involved. As I had never watched a Spanish language film before I struggled at first to read the graphic language and thought how it was probably funnier if I could actually understand Spanish. But that's not to say that I didn't laugh loudly throughout the film, as sometimes the continued conversations lead to lack of breath! One scene later on in the film, when the lads shout to their friend in a bar is a particular stand out funny moment.

As the film develops and time passes, its quite sad to see the relationship between the boys spoil. Trust falters and betrayal is revealed but you still feel that deep down these two lads will be mates forever. It also brings a direct emotional connection to relationships in real life. Life throws many situations in your path and relationships do often suffer, some grow stronger, but its amazing how people can often pass through your life.

The ending didn't come as a shock to me as I did guess the slight twist, a while before it happened. Although, it still had the same effect. It hits home emotionally, and I was left thinking about the film for a good few hours after. Quite reflective in its style, this film manages to be an emotional, character driven road trip with 2 weed smoking Mexicans!

Tigerland

2004-08-16T19:58:00.000+01:00

Tigerland

Vietnam films always seem to be fairly depressing. Casualties of war bases itself around rape. The deer hunter involves Russian roulette and psychological torture. Full metal jacket tackles suicide and eventually full on war scenarios. So I was pleasantly surprised to see a film about Vietnam which distances itself from these other classics. No actual war scenes and more character based, Tigerland manages to entertain without feeling the need to be shockingly violent. This isn't to say that the film is all love and peace, of course blood flows and psychological issues raise their ugly head but it is a film about war!

Joel Schumacher has created some classic films but none that would be described as really meaningful. The lost boys and Batman forever are good films but pretty much popcorn material. This represents more of a similar tone to A time to kill. Development of characters and the bringing about of emotions. The cast are (or were at the time) relatively unknowns. Colin Farrell takes the lead as Bozz, an out of control army recruit who has no time for war but has leadership qualities which others are lacking. The story follows Bozz as he befriends Paxton and tries to get as many people out of going to Vietnam. Of course he manages to piss a lot of people along the way and makes quite a few enemies, which makes for interesting relationships between Bozz, his comrades and his superiors.

The rest of the cast are noticeable, Cole Hauser from 2 fast 2 furious, Clifton Gonalez from Traffic and each person plays a significant part in the storyline. The running time is fairly short for a film of this scope, yet it never feels rushed and the time is used well. Farrell excels again and its amazing how, from starring in Ballykissangel he has grown to a Hollywood superstar.

There are still exaggerated characters which bare resemblance to R.Lee Emery in Full metal jacket but no Vietnam film would be complete without these. Although, these do lead to scenes of victimisation they also bring about a degree of humour which can lighten the mood. Really well shot with interesting emotions running throughout, Farrell's back catalogue of good solid films continues to grow.

Nikita

2004-08-16T19:56:00.000+01:00

Nikita

Through the ages, criminals have been treated very differently. The death penalty, prison sentences and rehabilitation. Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange took a different approach. Serious crimes deserve serious treatments and the kind of 'brain washing' or 'programming' that occurs in that film is extreme and not necessarily for the best. Nikita is a similar kind of film in storyline, but that's where the similarities end.

It's quite possible that before watching this film ,the majority of the viewing public will of seen this film in another form, either the awful American remake 'The assassin' with Bridget Fonda or the TV series La Femme Nikita. A drugged up women is tied to a gang of ruthless thugs due to her dependency on hardcore recreational pharmaceuticals. Her involvement with the gang seems to be minimal until she's caught up in a police shoot out and commits an horrendous act and is taken into custody.

From here the story changes towards the rehabilitation of Nikita's character and the focuses on her 'programming/training' by a government agency. Along this path, she is guided by Bob (Tchéky Karyo) and trained into becoming a lady and then a hitman. At this point, the film becomes fairly slow paced, yet doesn't fill in any back story and it's hard to establish how Nikita managed to get herself into this position in the first place. It's because of this that its hard to feel any emotion for Nikita when she is being put through the difficult training and the subsequent challenges she encounters back out in the real world.

The first 'hit' that Nikita is given is brilliantly shot, and the action seems brutally real. The bullets fly, the blood flows and the final escape from the clutches of an explosion is great. It's just a shame that the rest of the film couldn't continue this frantic pace, and on-the-edge of the seat action.The relationships that Nikita forms aren't fulfilled and its obvious that sooner or later the truth will become clear for all to see. But, this is where the film falls down as its impossible to truly emotionally connect with any of the characters involved. There is one scene involving Jean Reno which is extremely brutal and shocking which manages finally brings Nikita's vulnerability to the screen, unfortunately its far too late into the film.

Without giving too much away, the ending lacks something. The film ends at a point with a lot of questions unanswered, possibly left open for a sequel which never happened or just to let the audiences imagination run riot. This isn't to say the film isn't entertaining as at some points the tension is high and the action is excellent, but I was hoping for so much more. This could of been because I knew a lot of the story beforehand, but it could also be because I wanted to feel something towards the characters but wasn't able to, at the times the story needed me to. It is interesting to see Jean Reno though, as his performance is short, sweet and too the point and almost certainly won him the role in Leon.

The School Of Rock

2004-08-16T19:54:00.000+01:00

School of Rock

The first film I ever saw Jack Black in was The Cable Guy with Jim Carrey. Now, most people I know hate this movie. I, on the other hand find it really dark and really funny. Although , only a bit part for Black, he does have a few great lines. Over the last few years, he has constantly starred in very funny films including Shallow Hal and Orange County, so I looked forward to the release of School of Rock.

Black stars as Dewey Finn, a down and out rocker who is recently booted out of his own band for performing 'gut-wrenching lead guitar' and stage diving straight to the floor. He has no money and no prospects until he takes a phone call meant for his flat mate Ned. Ned is a substitute teacher and Dewey decides he can get rich quick by taking the job by pretending to be Ned.

With Black's musical background with Tenacious d, this film is the perfect vehicle for him to show off his energenic comedic style and his musical talents. As the substitute teacher, Dewey has the perfect opportunity to try to form a rock band from the class of children. Black's facial expressions, sound effects and constant hyperactivity could annoy some people but it fits well with the classroom situation. The kids involved perform brilliantly and its funny seeing adult stereotypes applied to the youngsters i.e. a gay fancy designer, and the relationships that form give the audience a group of people to really root for.

The storyline is pretty simple and works in a similar vain to Rocky or the Karate kid with music. Long training sequence ending in the final battle with various altercations along the way. The kids parents, a hilarious police encounter and a eagle-eyed head mistress (Joan Cusack)are all included.

The finale has a great musical number which builds on the fantastic soundtrack throughout the whole film. The kids rise to the occasion and give a resoundingly positive outcome to a very funny film, and possibly deliver some stars of the future. Whilst, Black continues on his quest for the comedy throne, and creates another completely different comedy character.

Although, a little cheesy with a smidgen of sensitivity, the film stills to hold your gaze and you'll probably find yourself tapping along to the theme song. It hard to find a film that manages to stay funny through repeated viewings, this is one film that does.

Shrek 2

2004-08-16T19:53:00.000+01:00

Shrek 2

I still remember when I first saw Shrek and promptly coughed up a lung. Continually funny, a brilliant story and great characters. I remember when I bought it on DVD and watched it about 10 times in a month. Everybody I know loves Shrek. As this is the case, I was very interested to see what they could do with the big green ogre next. Luckily, it doesn't disappoint.
There was always going to be a massive interest in the second outing of donkey, Fiona and the lovable Shrek. With it being family friendly material, the age span of the audience was huge and that's why the first took the world by storm. Jokes for all ages, film references, cute characters and famous voices galore. Shrek 2 has the lot.

The film continues from where the first left off. Shrek and Fiona on their honey moon, before returning back to their swamp! A hilarious montage sequence involving a fantastic Disney mickey-take (no pun intended!). This leads straight into a Lord of the rings spoof which finished me off. Crying with laughter, it was one of those moments which begged for being rewound and watched again immediately.

After sunning themselves silly, the couple get back to the swamp to life happily ever after and but straight into donkey. The annoying little furry animal has a surprise for fiona when he gives her the post. A letter from Mum and Dad a.k.a the king and Queen of far far away. From then on, the film becomes a animated version of meet the parents. As the now threesome, make their merry way to Fiona's folks, a contender for funniest bit of the film appears. Donkey at his most annoying. The reactions from the actor's voices mixed with the superb subtle facial expressions from Shrek and Donkey exactly replicate what it would be like in real life. Juvenile in some ways, but absolutely hilarious.

The the film then continues as the relationships between the King (John Clesse), Queen (Julie Andrews), the fairy godmother (Jennifer Saunders) and Prince charming (Rupert Everett). Tossing and towing between the films central characters, its amazing how the film manages to stay simple. The film is slightly darker than the first,with more of an enemy figure as an adversary for Shrek and co. But, with more characters comes lots of different laughs. The introduction of Antonio Banderas as Puss-In-Boots adds another element to the relationship between donkey and Shrek, but also gives even more laugh out loud moments.

The soundtrack is as good as the first, with differing versions of well known songs. And the musical numbers within the film, are well done and also pick away at Disney's back catalogue. Look out for a brilliant Beauty and the Beast jibe. The animation is amazing and possibly even better than the first. The story is simple, yet effective and the actors have done another superb job into adding as much humor as possible into the short running time.

Quite different from the first, yet quite similar in other ways, Shrek 2 has already made millions and will no doubt continue to make more throughout the world and on DVD. Definitely as funny as the first, and the characters haven't become boring. I can guarantee you will watch this film more than once!

S.W.A.T

2004-08-16T19:51:00.000+01:00

Swat

Another TV to film remake I hear you cry. With the reams of 70's/80's shows that have made it from the small screen to the big screen, very few have actually performed well. Charlie's Angels, Mission Impossible, The Saint, and the downright awful Starsky and Hutch have all made the transition in recent years. But, SWAT appears to be something quite different, a film that manages to avoid the satirical form of Angels, the overblown stunts of Impossible, the cheesy gadgets of The Saint and the film plays straight unlike Starsky. Therefore, SWAT comes a cross as a real film with characters, relationships and some awesome action.

Colin Farrell's leap to mega stardom has seen him play some quite diverse roles, and this film gives him an opportunity to flex his muscles (something I'm sure the ladies will love) but also gives him some quite dramatic set pieces to work with. Farrell plays Street, a disgraced officer who is kicked of SWAT because his partner disobeyed orders, and Street wouldn't give him up. But, Street gets one last chance when he meets up with a SWAT commander played by Samuel L Jackson. Farrell's relationship with Jackson is well worked but not overplayed, and the pair seem comfortable sharing screen time together.

Jackson like Farrell has made some very different movies over the last couple of years. He performance in Jurassic Park is brilliant and he is 'too cool for school' in the Quentin Tarantino movies, but he has also appeared in Deep Blue Sea, which we will forgive him for! Jackson manages to bring an air of coolness to most characters he plays, and in SWAT its no different. Jackson plays Hondo, a SWAT commander who has caused a lot of trouble in the past, but is being given one more chance to bring a team of police officers together to form an unstoppable SWAT unit. Jackson's mission to create the perfect team brings him across LL Cool J and Michele Rodriguez, who both bring different skills into the team.

Whilst, Jackson's men (and woman!) start their training, an international terrorist played by Olivier Martinez is arrested for having a broken tail light and then taken into custody once they find out who he really is. The film takes a different turn, when Martinez puts a ransom on himself. Who ever can free him will collect 100 million dollars (as Dr Evil would say). The trouble is, this starts of a war over all the rivals groups in town, and mayhem soon reigns.

The film itself is simple enough, but manages to remain focused on the task ahead, whilst also managing to avoid becoming littered with cheesy chunks. The characters work well together, and Farrell puts in another good performance which will no doubt boost his A list status. The action set pieces are different enough to keep the audiences attention, and the obligatory training sequence is well done. Being a 12A, the film isn't able to get really gritty, and is possibly a little too long. But, there are minor criticisms of a fun film which can be watched again and again.

Ju-On: The Grudge

2004-08-16T19:42:00.000+01:00

The Grudge
Scary films these days are few and far between probably due to the ream of flippant slasher movies made in the mid to late nineties. Scream, I still know what you did last summer, Urban legend and the rest had scary moments, but only jumps not sustained weeing your pants terror.

The Blair witch project caused a storm when it was released and I freely admit that it scared me silly. The Ring was probably the last film to make me cling to my chair and also brought into the world of Japanese horror. Ringu, The Eye and Dark water are all slow paced, tension building films with simple stories. Ju-on: The grudge is similar in pace but has jumpy moments along with nightmare inducing tension. This film is scary as simple as that.

Ju-on is a convoluted tale of a mother and son who were brutally murdered in their own home. The story follows many characters within their own episode of the film, and focuses on their dealings with the family home. The film starts with an explanation of Ju-on that brilliantly prepares the audience for why the spirits are present, so no time has to be wasted with building up the back story. Therefore, the film goes straight into the tension building and the creepy atmospheric tones are matched by unothordox camera angles.

The film starts with a social worker called Rika. It's her job to look upon an elderly lady who is staying with her family. When Rika finds the old women she starts to feel a strange presence in the house and strange noises from upstairs. Rika's subsequent actions follow on to areas where her life crosses with other people who have had experiences with the house. These are not all in the correct order and at some points the story can become quite complicated. The best thing to do is think about family connections and the story should fit together nicely.

It's hard to explain why this film is any scary then Ringu or Dark Water, as the evil presences in the three films do have similarities. With, Ju-on there are various hints at scares from other films, the Exorcist being one. But, its the repeated scenes of unnerving and uncomfortable silences which linger and then creep up on till you are completely engrossed in the film. Then you get scared!

After seeing this film , I became aware that I didn't even remember reading any of the subtitles. I could tell you the complete story, but its almost as if the film tells itself. The dialogue is sparse in occasions and it really allows your imagination to run riot.This great film is the third in the series of Ju-on, but the first cinematic release. A fourth episode Ju-on:The grudge 2 has been released in Japan and I will waiting eagerly for the release date here.

Ghost Dog: The way of the samurai

2004-08-16T19:33:00.000+01:00

Ghost Dog
As samurai films go, I'm a lot more interested about the methodology of samurai and the ancient rules that apply. Of course, the fight scenes can be fantastic, limbs lopped off, blood spraying everywhere, even computer games like Bushido seem to focus on the grotesque rather than the respect and loyalty that is entrenched in the culture of samurai.

The Last Samurai starring Tom Cruise develops the ideas of samurai through the entire film. Fights do take place and blood is spilled, but the ancient samurai codes are adhered to, in most instances. Japanese society is a fascinating topic, and one the main reasons I would like to travel there, is because of the history involved. Within, the Last Samurai, a large training sequence allows the viewer to become involved with the ideas of samurai and Cruise's character completely encompasses the methodology.

Ghost Dog cannot be labeled as a standard samurai film. The film is set in America, the lead samurai character is played by Forest Whittaker and the enemies involved are Italian gangsters. But, the film still manages to put through the ideas of respect and loyalty to a poignant conclusion. There are no sword fights, and no Japanese characters but its refreshing to see the same ideas transported into a different cultural environment.

The story is a simple one. Whittaker plays Ghost dog a hitman/assassin who is hired by an Italian mobster. Ghost dog heavily believes in the ways of the samurai after reading a book on the topic, and transfers the methodologies into his everyday way of live. As a youngster, Whittaker is attacked by a group of lads who are threatening to kill him. His life is spared by Louie (the mobster) and Ghost Dog then strikes deal to work for Louie as he feels he has a duty to him back. Ghost Dog respects Louie as a master. He is loyal to him in all ways, and therefore his entire life is dedicated to him.

Ghost dog's relationships with normal citizens are strange. He is known by the community and is also seen to be respected. But, his best friend is a French ice cream seller who speaks no English. This relationship spawns some of the films lighter moments, with the two friends unable to understand what either is saying.

The film moves fairly slowly as many characters are introduced, but twists and turns in various directions at the same time. Parts of the film are broken up by narratives from Whittaker on the ancient rules that Ghost dog follows. These cleverly match aspects of the film and can be related to everyday developments. It could be seen that these slow down the film too much, but if thought about and applied to the film then they can enhance areas of the film.

There are some clever touches in the film, with Whittaker placing his gun back into his holster in a similar way to placing a sword back in its holder. Although, he could just be seen as a hitman with little emotion, this clever touch brings the thought of Ghost dog being a samurai into the mind. Ghost dog's relationship with a small girl also shows that he does have trouble whilst socially interacting. But, when given the chance can be kind and caring.

Some may miss the point of this film and think that its missing something due to the lack of fights and traditional samurai, but if you look deeper into the underlying theme and then the films emotional climax, you may find if brilliant.