Cast: Leonardo Dipcario, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane, Kathy Bates, Francis Fisher and Gloria Stuart.
Director: James Cameron
Release Date: 1997
Running Time: 3hrs 14 minutes
Genre: Drama
Rating: 12
Format: Netflix UK
Synopsis:
Director James Cameron, allows audiences to be thrashed into the Titanic, in this incredible film adaption about the unsinkable ship, which sank on April 14th, 1912!
Nothing could prepare the world for what would happen on April 12th 1912. At 11:40pm, the Titanic tragically collided with an iceberg in the North Atlantic, ripping a hole in her hull. Sadly at 2:20am the Titanic sank. There have been many conspiracy theories over the years in regards to what actually made the ship sink. In new evidence it has been confirmed that a fire started on board the ship before it even left Southampton. Some believe this to mean that the hull was damaged when the ship set sail for New York, allowing the iceberg to do more damage then normal. Other myths have included that the ship was carrying a gold bullion, that she sank due to the curse of an Egyptian mummy that was being carried in the cargo to be escorted to the British Museum and that she was sabotaged by Catholic extremists who were thought to be resentful of her makers. None of these are true.
The storyline is only loosely based on the true event. Most of the relationships between characters are fictitious. Rose Dewitt Bukater (Winslet) is being forced into marriage with Cal Hockley because her mother and herself have had financial strain thrust upon them. Ruth believes marrying into money will save their family and their name. Rose, however has eyes for someone else on board, an artist, Jack Dawson (Dicaprio) who rescues her one night when she attempts to commit suicide. The story primarily focuses on their relationship as well as the devastating event that takes place. Kate Winslet and Leonardo Dicaprio deliver tremendous performances and show real chemistry on screen together.
Although the film focuses naturally on the sinking of the ship, James Cameron made a point to focus on the relationship of the characters too. Rose walking further and further away from her fiance Cal when she finds love in Jack. Cal doing everything he can to persuade her otherwise. The strained relationship between Molly Brown and Rose's mother Ruth Dewitt Bukater. The fact that despite the ship sinking the crew were still willing to lock up a man they believe committed a crime. Is it understood that this is what would have truly happened during the circumstances? The terrifying truth that they had an hour to evacuate 2,200 people from the ship to safety in lifeboats. One of which they did not have enough of.
Breathtaking cinematography by Director of Photography Russell Carpenter. Although the production design is gorgeous, the stunning interior of the first class cabins, there are however a fair share of factual errors throughout the film. Some are more noticeable than others. The most noticeable of that when Rose and Jack run through the boiler room, both come out completely unmarked, how is it that the boiler workers are covered in soot? A beautiful score by the late James Horner tells an emotional story on it's own. Violinists that were willing to play music to entertain passengers right up the moment the ship sank, the emotion that must have been going through their minds is astronomical.
Composer James Horner delivers so much emotion through his score its really quite incredible. It starts off fantastically uplifting, the ship set sails, heading for New York. As the ship begins to sink, the emotion in the music really begins to change, at times is truly heartbreaking, understanding that at least half of the people on board aren't going to survive. So much of the story is told through the beauty of Horner's score.
Although the film is historically incorrect at times, James Cameron has delivered a masterpiece that can be watched time and time again.
4.5/5 stars
Saturday 29 July 2017
Tuesday 25 July 2017
Dunkirk
Cast: Fionn Whitehead, Damian Bonnard, James Bloor, Tom Hardy, Jack Lowden, Cillian Murphy and Harry Styles.
Director: Christopher Nolan
Release Date: 2017
Running Time: 1hr 46 minutes
Genre: Action/War
Rating: 12
Format: Theatrical Cinema Release
Synopsis:
Soldiers from Belgium, the British Empire and France are surrounded by the German army and are evacuated during the fierce battle in World War 2.
Director Christopher Nolan once again delivers an incredible masterpiece! Dunkirk is one of those films that I wished I had seen in school, it's very emotional and deeply educating! The evacuation of allied soldiers from Belgium, The British Empire and France took place between May 26th-June 4th 1940, during the battle of France in World War 2! There honestly, aren't very many war films that I have seen that haven't hit me hard. This one felt the most real. Christopher Nolan really did his research when it came to writing the storyline, not only is it interesting for those who aren't sure what happened, it's extremely convincing too. Very thought provoking. Tom Hardy delivers a fantastic performance as British pilot Farrier! His character took me by surprise a little bit, his portrayal of a British soldier was very realistic and genuine. His performance really supported his character. Farrier is a hero, as all of them are!
I must admit, I was expecting a bit more from actor Cillian Murphy, his character has great significance to others characters. Rescuers. I haven't really seen Murphy in that much, however his performance was very, very good! There are certainly a few surprises when it comes to his character! Harry Styles is an actor that honestly took me by surprise the most, known more for singing in the British group One Direction, he most certainly proved his could have an acting career ahead of him too! It's incredible how the characters in the film interact with another, all fighting for survival, it's only natural it's going to affect everyone differently. I love that Nolan was able to show that on screen between character interaction.
I will be very honest in explaining that there isn't a great deal of dialogue in the film, believe me it doesn't need it, it really doesn't! The visuals and the cinematography tell the story all on it's own, very impressively! It's one of the first films that's made my heart race from beginning to end! The incredible score by Hans Zimmer really helps in allowing audiences to experience that! It's incredible at supporting the mood in each scene, is a bomb going to be dropped? Are they going to survive? These were the questions, I found myself constantly asking, through out the whole film? Why? Because, you honestly didn't know, Nolan has been so amazing in his directing in only showing so much to an audience at one given time. The fear in Tom Hardy's eye is really quite remarkable! It's all you need to understand what is happening in any given scene. Someone's reaction, can tell so much!
Visually, one of the most spectacular war films I've ever seen! Christopher Nolan and cinematographer Hoyte Van Hoytema really deserve the highest praise! Oh my goodness, spectacular visuals of bombers, perfect close ups of the actors, especially Tom Hardy when flying, absolutely excellent! The underwater sequences look exceptionally genuine and real, this film will hit home for some! Graphic is probably the one wrong word. Nolan was quite respectful in not showing certain elements of scenes, instead allowing his audience to use their imagination. You would hear it, but you wouldn't always necessarily see it. When Steven Spielberg directed "Saving Private Ryan" he wanted his audience to be touched immediately by graphic content. I love that Nolan, chose to hold back that and get you to understand the characters first. In "Saving Private Ryan" you could practically predict what you were going to see, Nolan waits to surprise you. Both films are very genuine and real, but they are shown in different ways.
Gripping, emotional and absolutely terrifying! An absolute, must watch!
5/5 stars
Director: Christopher Nolan
Release Date: 2017
Running Time: 1hr 46 minutes
Genre: Action/War
Rating: 12
Format: Theatrical Cinema Release
Synopsis:
Soldiers from Belgium, the British Empire and France are surrounded by the German army and are evacuated during the fierce battle in World War 2.
Director Christopher Nolan once again delivers an incredible masterpiece! Dunkirk is one of those films that I wished I had seen in school, it's very emotional and deeply educating! The evacuation of allied soldiers from Belgium, The British Empire and France took place between May 26th-June 4th 1940, during the battle of France in World War 2! There honestly, aren't very many war films that I have seen that haven't hit me hard. This one felt the most real. Christopher Nolan really did his research when it came to writing the storyline, not only is it interesting for those who aren't sure what happened, it's extremely convincing too. Very thought provoking. Tom Hardy delivers a fantastic performance as British pilot Farrier! His character took me by surprise a little bit, his portrayal of a British soldier was very realistic and genuine. His performance really supported his character. Farrier is a hero, as all of them are!
I must admit, I was expecting a bit more from actor Cillian Murphy, his character has great significance to others characters. Rescuers. I haven't really seen Murphy in that much, however his performance was very, very good! There are certainly a few surprises when it comes to his character! Harry Styles is an actor that honestly took me by surprise the most, known more for singing in the British group One Direction, he most certainly proved his could have an acting career ahead of him too! It's incredible how the characters in the film interact with another, all fighting for survival, it's only natural it's going to affect everyone differently. I love that Nolan was able to show that on screen between character interaction.
I will be very honest in explaining that there isn't a great deal of dialogue in the film, believe me it doesn't need it, it really doesn't! The visuals and the cinematography tell the story all on it's own, very impressively! It's one of the first films that's made my heart race from beginning to end! The incredible score by Hans Zimmer really helps in allowing audiences to experience that! It's incredible at supporting the mood in each scene, is a bomb going to be dropped? Are they going to survive? These were the questions, I found myself constantly asking, through out the whole film? Why? Because, you honestly didn't know, Nolan has been so amazing in his directing in only showing so much to an audience at one given time. The fear in Tom Hardy's eye is really quite remarkable! It's all you need to understand what is happening in any given scene. Someone's reaction, can tell so much!
Gripping, emotional and absolutely terrifying! An absolute, must watch!
5/5 stars
Saturday 22 July 2017
Matilda
Cast: Mara Wilson, Danny Devito, Rhea Pearlman, Embeth Davidtz and Pam Ferris.
Director: Danny Devito
Release Date: 1996
Running Time: 1hr 38 minutes
Genre: Family
Rating: PG
Format: Netflix UK
Synopsis:
This is the story of a remarkable little girl, Matilda, a genius to her wonderful teacher, nothing but trouble to her parents.
Based on the incredible children's story of the same name by Roald Dahl. Director and actor Danny Devito, brings the imaginative story to life! When I was at school, if it was a rainy day, we were allowed to sit in our school library and watch a film. I can't even remember how many times, I watched this. All I can say, is that it has become a firm favourite. As I've mentioned before in a few of my other reviews, it can be quite a challenge adapting a book into a movie. This, is honestly one of the best book adaptions out there! What's so excellent about it, is the fact that its not just entertaining, it's quite educational too. Unfortunately Matilda Wormwood is very misunderstood by her family, she is very different from their way of life. Matilda's mother is always off gambling whilst her father sells phoney cars to unwilling customers. Sadly, Matilda's parents don't see her for the remarkably intelligent girl that she is. Matilda finally starts school and her intelligence doesn't go unnoticed, her teacher Miss Honey, see's her for the beautiful human being that she is, so goes about helping her!
I cannot even tell you how incredible Pam Ferris's performance is as Miss Trunchbull. A truly brilliant British actress. Her performance as Miss Trunchbull is absolutely terrifying. I can remember having nightmares as a child, imagining that when I'd get to Secondary school, my head mistress would be just like her! Thankfully, I was wrong. Of course, not everyone at Matilda's school is horrible, her teacher Miss Honey, becomes quite a hero. Matilda soon forms an incredible friendship with her. Matilda, played by fantastic child actor Mara Wilson, delivers one of her best performances. For some, you may recognise her more from "Mrs Doubtfire" or "Miracle on 34th Street", her personality matches that of Matilda's beautifully. Danny Devito works amazingly as actor and director. Devito plays, Mr Wormwood a nasty man who cheats customers out of their money by selling cars. Is it just me or is Devito fantastic at playing the grumpy stereotype? A very, very underrated character actor.
There's something very magical about this film, I can't quite place my finger on what it is. I think it all comes down to the fact that a lot of children can relate to it. There's a terrific scene involving chocolate cake, and let's face it, what child doesn't dream of having magic powers? I can't even remember how many times I read the book as a child. Countless times. Devito found the perfect balance between making this a film and keeping the book alive at the same time. The storyline is excellent, it's perfectly suitable for children of all ages. Despite Pam Ferris's character Miss Trunchbull being absolutely horrible, there isn't anything too frightening for very young children. You know, it's only as an adult that I have really come to appreciate how ridiculously terrifying she actually is.
The score is amazing, it speaks for itself, but it really could tell the story all on it's own. It's incredible, what a good soundtrack can do for a movie! It's remarkable, how much it can bring a story to life! I love how educational it is, it essentially teaches children what will happen if they go through their life being unkind to others. It also shows what happens to those, that are kind. Not to mention, it may seriously encourage your children to read, if they believe they might end up with super powers, it's good enough right? For a film that is 19 years old, it doesn't look a day old. The cinematography is nice, it's simple, but it works. The special effects do look a little bit dated in places, but come on, it's a children's movie, it's not to be taken too seriously. It actually adds humour, to an already fantastic storyline.
This is by far one of the best films of the 90's, it's educational, fun and entertaining!
5/5 stars
Director: Danny Devito
Release Date: 1996
Running Time: 1hr 38 minutes
Genre: Family
Rating: PG
Format: Netflix UK
Synopsis:
This is the story of a remarkable little girl, Matilda, a genius to her wonderful teacher, nothing but trouble to her parents.
I cannot even tell you how incredible Pam Ferris's performance is as Miss Trunchbull. A truly brilliant British actress. Her performance as Miss Trunchbull is absolutely terrifying. I can remember having nightmares as a child, imagining that when I'd get to Secondary school, my head mistress would be just like her! Thankfully, I was wrong. Of course, not everyone at Matilda's school is horrible, her teacher Miss Honey, becomes quite a hero. Matilda soon forms an incredible friendship with her. Matilda, played by fantastic child actor Mara Wilson, delivers one of her best performances. For some, you may recognise her more from "Mrs Doubtfire" or "Miracle on 34th Street", her personality matches that of Matilda's beautifully. Danny Devito works amazingly as actor and director. Devito plays, Mr Wormwood a nasty man who cheats customers out of their money by selling cars. Is it just me or is Devito fantastic at playing the grumpy stereotype? A very, very underrated character actor.
There's something very magical about this film, I can't quite place my finger on what it is. I think it all comes down to the fact that a lot of children can relate to it. There's a terrific scene involving chocolate cake, and let's face it, what child doesn't dream of having magic powers? I can't even remember how many times I read the book as a child. Countless times. Devito found the perfect balance between making this a film and keeping the book alive at the same time. The storyline is excellent, it's perfectly suitable for children of all ages. Despite Pam Ferris's character Miss Trunchbull being absolutely horrible, there isn't anything too frightening for very young children. You know, it's only as an adult that I have really come to appreciate how ridiculously terrifying she actually is.
This is by far one of the best films of the 90's, it's educational, fun and entertaining!
5/5 stars
Godzilla (2014)
Cast: Elizabeth Olsen, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, CJ Adams, Bryan Cranston, Carson Bolde and Sally Hawkins.
Director: Gareth Edwards
Release Date: 2014
Running Time: 2hrs 3 minutes
Genre: Action/Sci Fi
Rating: 12
Format: Blu-Ray
Synopsis:
After an explosion at a nuclear power plant, Joe Brody goes in search of the cause. Was it just an explosion, or did a monstrous creature cause it?
This is a reboot of the Japanese "Godzilla" series from 1954. It has absolutely nothing to do with the American remake that starred Matthew Broderick. In my humble opinion, this is more true to the original story. Is it a disaster movie? Essentially, yes. I would put "Godzilla" up there with, "Monsters" and Stephen King's "The Mist", in terms of it being a disaster movie. It's not a disaster movie in the sense that it's the end of the world. I also love the fact that you don't see the monster for the vast majority of the movie, it really builds up suspense. In 1999, the Janjura Nuclear Plant was mysteriously destroyed with lives lost including Joe Brody's colleague and wife Sandra. Years later, Joe still searches to find the truth, what happened to his wife that day? Joe's son Ford, a US Navy ordnance disposal officer must go to Japan to help his father discover the disasters secret.
I'll be brutally honest when I first watched the film, I didn't understand what it really had to do with Godzilla. This is what happens when you watch an awful, American remake. You expect to see exactly the same thing. This is very different to the American remake. I love the authenticity of it being set in Japan, just like the original series. The problem that most audiences have found in the past and for those that have never seen it, you'll go in expecting more then what you are going to get. This is where "Kong: Skull Island" comes in, Godzilla and Kong are in the same universe. The questions that you will probably find yourself asking are likely to be answered in future movies. It does take a while to get going, be patient with it. Chances are if you've already seen "Kong: Skull Island", this is going to make more sense to you. The storyline is very similar to that of Kong. It's no surprise, visually that the films are in the same universe.
Starring Aaron-Taylor Johnson as US Navy operative Ford, his wife is played by Elizabeth Olsen. Coincidentally, they both played brother and sister in Marvels "Avengers: Age of Ultron", Johnson delivers a good performance, it's not tremendous, but his character works well with the storyline. Elizabeth Olsen's role isn't fantastically big, again though her character works well with the storyline, I love the relationship that she has with Ford, and her little boy Sam. It feels like a very tight knitted family. To be honest, Olsen and Johnson aren't on screen enough together to determine whether or not they have a lot of chemistry with one another. None the less, their family environment appears very real.
Although it is explained briefly, we never quite understand where these's creatures come from, and if I am honest that's what I love so much about it. It reminds me of Stephen King's "The Mist", the story's are completely different, but I do feel like they are very similar. The first instalment in the Monsterverse. The special effects in this film are absolutely insane, Godzilla was made with a 3-D model that was made up of 500,000 polygons. You've got to admit, that's pretty awesome right? It would of been virtually impossible to create it on a single computer. The cinematography is very nice, however the only thing that did annoy me a little bit was that in some scenes, the lighting is that dark that you can't actually see what is meant to be happening. I respect it was probably done in order to create suspense, it's possible to go too far in the other direction too, in preventing the audience from actually seeing anything.
The performances from Johnson and Olsen could have been better, but it works well none the less. If I am honest, it was a great start to the Monsterverse. I'm really excited to see where they are going to take Godzilla next.
5/5
Director: Gareth Edwards
Release Date: 2014
Running Time: 2hrs 3 minutes
Genre: Action/Sci Fi
Rating: 12
Format: Blu-Ray
Synopsis:
After an explosion at a nuclear power plant, Joe Brody goes in search of the cause. Was it just an explosion, or did a monstrous creature cause it?
I'll be brutally honest when I first watched the film, I didn't understand what it really had to do with Godzilla. This is what happens when you watch an awful, American remake. You expect to see exactly the same thing. This is very different to the American remake. I love the authenticity of it being set in Japan, just like the original series. The problem that most audiences have found in the past and for those that have never seen it, you'll go in expecting more then what you are going to get. This is where "Kong: Skull Island" comes in, Godzilla and Kong are in the same universe. The questions that you will probably find yourself asking are likely to be answered in future movies. It does take a while to get going, be patient with it. Chances are if you've already seen "Kong: Skull Island", this is going to make more sense to you. The storyline is very similar to that of Kong. It's no surprise, visually that the films are in the same universe.
Starring Aaron-Taylor Johnson as US Navy operative Ford, his wife is played by Elizabeth Olsen. Coincidentally, they both played brother and sister in Marvels "Avengers: Age of Ultron", Johnson delivers a good performance, it's not tremendous, but his character works well with the storyline. Elizabeth Olsen's role isn't fantastically big, again though her character works well with the storyline, I love the relationship that she has with Ford, and her little boy Sam. It feels like a very tight knitted family. To be honest, Olsen and Johnson aren't on screen enough together to determine whether or not they have a lot of chemistry with one another. None the less, their family environment appears very real.
Although it is explained briefly, we never quite understand where these's creatures come from, and if I am honest that's what I love so much about it. It reminds me of Stephen King's "The Mist", the story's are completely different, but I do feel like they are very similar. The first instalment in the Monsterverse. The special effects in this film are absolutely insane, Godzilla was made with a 3-D model that was made up of 500,000 polygons. You've got to admit, that's pretty awesome right? It would of been virtually impossible to create it on a single computer. The cinematography is very nice, however the only thing that did annoy me a little bit was that in some scenes, the lighting is that dark that you can't actually see what is meant to be happening. I respect it was probably done in order to create suspense, it's possible to go too far in the other direction too, in preventing the audience from actually seeing anything.
The performances from Johnson and Olsen could have been better, but it works well none the less. If I am honest, it was a great start to the Monsterverse. I'm really excited to see where they are going to take Godzilla next.
5/5
Friday 21 July 2017
The Cat in the Hat
Cast: Mike Myers, Dakota Fanning, Alec Baldwin, Kelly Preston and Spencer Breslin.
Director: Bo Welch
Running Time: 1hr 21 minutes
Release Date: 2003
Genre: Family
Rating: PG
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Synopsis:
Two bored children Sally and Conrad have their lives turned upside down when a giant talking cat comes to visit them.
Dr Seuss is an author I wasn't honestly that familiar with as a child. I'd never read "Green eggs and ham" or "The Cat in the Hat", in school. So, as you can imagine, I was more than intrigued when I came across this as a teenager, especially as I was a massive fan of Mike Myers. This is one of those films that is perfect for snuggling up on the sofa on a rainy day with. Preferably a bar of chocolate in hand too. Despite the title, the film is actually based on the book "The Cat in the Hat comes back", do you know what I honestly love the most about film adaptations of Dr Seuss books? They are magnificently colourful and full of imagination. Eccentric and absurd. During an afternoon of boredom, siblings Conrad (Breslin) and Sally (Fanning) find themselves in the arms of Cat (Myers), where together they embark on a terrific adventure of magic and mayhem.
The film is magnificently over the top and very tongue in cheek. Mike Myers stars as the flamboyant black and white cat. Myers is absolutely marvellous in his role, he really does steal the show. his use of characterisation and humour is excellent. It's unfortunate that actress Kelly Preston, delivers one her worst performances as Mom, her role is going to be over the top naturally due to the nature of the film, however she offers next to no characterisation and sadly only has about five minutes of screen time. Every great family film has a bad guy, Alec Baldwin stars as Lawrence, a pompous and grouchy man who has the hearts for Sally and Conrad's mom. The children however are not convinced and learn that he would rather send them both off to military academy. Baldwin too, delivers a good performance, he's certainly good at playing the bad guy, it's a shame he doesn't have more screen time too.
Dakota Fanning and Spencer Breslin are superb as Sally and Conrad. Both work beautifully together as brother and sister. Dakota Fanning is beautifully sweet and innocent as Sally. The deliverance of their terrific performances are what really make this a fantastic family film. Despite being a family film, it came as quite a surprise to see how many adult innuendos have actually been used throughout the course of the film. The idea is that obviously children wouldn't understand these jokes, however even from an adult's perspective it can be exceptionally uncomfortable at times. Dr Seuss's books are wonderfully eccentric and bright, however there's no need to turn a fantastic children's book rude. The humour for the most part, is very adult based. Director Bo Welch certainly took a fair share of risks when he made this film. Some of which work and some of which definitely do not.
The beauty of this film is that it is terrifically colourful. There are so many different things to look at in each and every scene. It's like walking through a brilliant visionary fun house of colour and imagination. Despite all of the uncomfortable adult innuendos, the film does have good morals behind it. Teaching children the importance of finding the perfect balance between fun and discipline. The special effects are excellent. Mike Myers delivers a great performance, children of all ages will find themselves wanting to get lost in the world of Dr Seuss's "The Cat in the Hat", the soundtrack just adds to the magic of the film with hit songs like Smash Mouth's "Hang on" and "Getting better",it really adds to the fun and colourfulness of the story.
3/5 stars
Director: Bo Welch
Running Time: 1hr 21 minutes
Release Date: 2003
Genre: Family
Rating: PG
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Synopsis:
Two bored children Sally and Conrad have their lives turned upside down when a giant talking cat comes to visit them.
The film is magnificently over the top and very tongue in cheek. Mike Myers stars as the flamboyant black and white cat. Myers is absolutely marvellous in his role, he really does steal the show. his use of characterisation and humour is excellent. It's unfortunate that actress Kelly Preston, delivers one her worst performances as Mom, her role is going to be over the top naturally due to the nature of the film, however she offers next to no characterisation and sadly only has about five minutes of screen time. Every great family film has a bad guy, Alec Baldwin stars as Lawrence, a pompous and grouchy man who has the hearts for Sally and Conrad's mom. The children however are not convinced and learn that he would rather send them both off to military academy. Baldwin too, delivers a good performance, he's certainly good at playing the bad guy, it's a shame he doesn't have more screen time too.
Dakota Fanning and Spencer Breslin are superb as Sally and Conrad. Both work beautifully together as brother and sister. Dakota Fanning is beautifully sweet and innocent as Sally. The deliverance of their terrific performances are what really make this a fantastic family film. Despite being a family film, it came as quite a surprise to see how many adult innuendos have actually been used throughout the course of the film. The idea is that obviously children wouldn't understand these jokes, however even from an adult's perspective it can be exceptionally uncomfortable at times. Dr Seuss's books are wonderfully eccentric and bright, however there's no need to turn a fantastic children's book rude. The humour for the most part, is very adult based. Director Bo Welch certainly took a fair share of risks when he made this film. Some of which work and some of which definitely do not.
The beauty of this film is that it is terrifically colourful. There are so many different things to look at in each and every scene. It's like walking through a brilliant visionary fun house of colour and imagination. Despite all of the uncomfortable adult innuendos, the film does have good morals behind it. Teaching children the importance of finding the perfect balance between fun and discipline. The special effects are excellent. Mike Myers delivers a great performance, children of all ages will find themselves wanting to get lost in the world of Dr Seuss's "The Cat in the Hat", the soundtrack just adds to the magic of the film with hit songs like Smash Mouth's "Hang on" and "Getting better",it really adds to the fun and colourfulness of the story.
3/5 stars
Thursday 20 July 2017
An Officer and a Gentlemen
Cast: Richard Gere, Debra Winger, David Keith, Robert Loggia, Louis Gossett Jr and Tony Plana
Director: Taylor Hackford
Release Date: 1982
Running Time: 2hrs 4 minutes
Genre: Drama/Romance
Rating: 15
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Synopsis:
A young man, who wants to rid of his father, must complete his work at a Navy flight school to be come a top aviator, with the help of a tough sergeant and a new girlfriend.
I have a bit of a confession. When I first heard about this movie, I was under the impression it was a girly chick flick! I was wrong, it's more of a romantic drama really. In fact, I found the story to be very emotional in places. Zack Mayo is forced to live with his drunken Navy father in the Philippines when his mother passes away. Tired of his father's drunken nights, he makes the decision to move to Washington to join the Navy at the Aviation Officer Candidate School. It doesn't take long for him to meet factory worker Paula Pokrifki, played fantastically by Deborah Winger. Richard Gere's performance is actually quite phenomenal. What's most impressive about the storyline is that screenwriter Douglas Day Stewart, focuses on some pretty emotional subjects, Zack's father Bryon (Robert Loggia), is an alcoholic who would rather be sleeping with his two mistresses then caring for his son. It focuses on the troubles that those joining the Navy really face, this film has not been glamorised in any shape or form. It's no surprise, it sits so well with those in the Navy in reality.
Richard Gere is terrific as aviator Zack Mayo. Determined to be at the top he fights through his training, pissing off his sergeant on the way, played by Louis Gossett Jr, Gossett's performance is magnificent. Remarkably convincing, he manages to build a fantastic amount of tension between himself and Richard Gere. Deborah Winger's performance as factory girl Paula, is fantastic. Despite the two actors reportedly not getting along in real life, there is most definitely quite a bit of chemistry between them. The two works brilliantly and look great together on screen. It is a romance, after all. I can understand why Richard Gere became a bit of a heartthrob in the eighties and early nineties. While "Top Gun" focuses on those who have already completed their trying, this film focuses on the training and the discipline that is required to become a fully qualified aviator.
One of the things, I find most fascinating about movies, is how much the fashion and the soundtrack can giveaway about when the film was produced. The fashion in this film is a dead giveaway, although some of it is seventies fashion, eighties fashion is just about starting to make an appearance. The pace of the film is very good, It didn't drag, I didn't find myself getting bored half way through, screenwriter Douglas Day Stewart found the perfect balance of drama and romance. Director Taylor Hackford, created captivating conflict between Sergeant Foley and Zack Mayo, that really makes the film all the more interesting. Is he going to make it through his training? Are all drilling officers like that? Is he a stereotype? I should probably ask my Navy friends.
Despite the storyline being quite emotional, it is a feel good movie and has a wonderful ending. One that has become quite famous! I've seen more parodies of this film then I have of any other. Very, very nicely shot, and very well edited, the film looks excellent. It's a very simple movie, the production design is very simple, you don't honestly see a great deal, however it's a very nice setting, set in Bremerton, Washington. It adds to the tone of the film very well, it works very well with the characters, and the storyline. A very well organised film that was beautifully written. The score too is very simply, but it works brilliantly alongside the storyline. You don't always need an outgoing soundtrack for a movie to work. Less is more.
Brought a tear to my eye, inspiring and warm! An absolute must have!
5/5 stars
Director: Taylor Hackford
Release Date: 1982
Running Time: 2hrs 4 minutes
Genre: Drama/Romance
Rating: 15
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Synopsis:
A young man, who wants to rid of his father, must complete his work at a Navy flight school to be come a top aviator, with the help of a tough sergeant and a new girlfriend.
Richard Gere is terrific as aviator Zack Mayo. Determined to be at the top he fights through his training, pissing off his sergeant on the way, played by Louis Gossett Jr, Gossett's performance is magnificent. Remarkably convincing, he manages to build a fantastic amount of tension between himself and Richard Gere. Deborah Winger's performance as factory girl Paula, is fantastic. Despite the two actors reportedly not getting along in real life, there is most definitely quite a bit of chemistry between them. The two works brilliantly and look great together on screen. It is a romance, after all. I can understand why Richard Gere became a bit of a heartthrob in the eighties and early nineties. While "Top Gun" focuses on those who have already completed their trying, this film focuses on the training and the discipline that is required to become a fully qualified aviator.
One of the things, I find most fascinating about movies, is how much the fashion and the soundtrack can giveaway about when the film was produced. The fashion in this film is a dead giveaway, although some of it is seventies fashion, eighties fashion is just about starting to make an appearance. The pace of the film is very good, It didn't drag, I didn't find myself getting bored half way through, screenwriter Douglas Day Stewart found the perfect balance of drama and romance. Director Taylor Hackford, created captivating conflict between Sergeant Foley and Zack Mayo, that really makes the film all the more interesting. Is he going to make it through his training? Are all drilling officers like that? Is he a stereotype? I should probably ask my Navy friends.
Brought a tear to my eye, inspiring and warm! An absolute must have!
5/5 stars
Wednesday 19 July 2017
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Cast: Johnny Depp, Freddie Highmore, Helena Boham Carter, David Kelly, Noah Taylor, James Fox, Deep Roy and Christopher Lee.
Director: Tim Burton
Release Date: 2005
Running Time: 1hr 50 minutes
Genre: Adventure/Family
Rating: PG
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Synopsis:
A young boy wins a tour through the most magnificent chocolate factory, in the world, led by the world's most unusual candy maker.
Based on the best-selling children's book of the same name by Roald Dahl. Director Tim Burton delivers a truly unique adaption of the story. Charlie (Highmore), lives in the world's tiniest house with his parents and grandparents. Although his father works in a toothpaste factory, they're very poor and live on Cabbage water. It is announced that chocolatier extraordinaire Willy Wonka is letting five children into his factory to look around, on the basis they find a golden ticket in one of his Wonka bars. After stumbling across some money on the floor, Charlie decides to buy a Wonka bar, to his luck, he finds a golden ticket! The adventure that unfolds around him is truly enchanting! Fun loving Johnny Depp, delivers one of his most magical performances as Willy Wonka! Rumour has it, he based his character on singing legend Michael Jackson! I can sort of see the resemblance. His character looks pretty awesome none the less.
Freddie Highmore stars as innocent Charlie Bucket, a remarkable child actor, who now can you believe stars as Norman Bates in "Bates Motel", alongside Vera Farmiga. Freddie is truly fantastic, I think a lot of children will be able to relate to him. Although I am a massive fan of the original film, I do really appreciate how Burton chose to go into more depth with his characters, the children in particular. It's been modernised, of course it has. That does however mean that Burton has made quite a few changes to the film. Voilet Beauregard is now a gum chewing, karate chopping, brat, who turns up with her mother instead of her father, we're shown Wonka's backstory, something really I would have loved to have seen in the original film. We're also introduced to Wonka's father which came as a very pleasant surprise when I found him to be played by the talented Christopher Lee.
Burton chose a fantastic cast for the film, with the likes of David Kelly (Grandpa), Noah Taylor (Mr Bucket) and Helena Boham Carter as Mrs Bucket. Although they don't have the biggest of roles, each of them has great significance to the storyline. I've come to the conclusion that actress Helena Boham Carter is incredible, regardless of who she plays. It's best to expect the unexpected when it comes to a Tim Burton movie. The characters are fantastically over the top and irritating. I really love that he chose Deep Roy to play the Oompah Loompas. I really love Tim Burton, his imagination is just incredible. So much detail has gone into each and every scene that I'd be here for ages just talking about it. I don't want to spoil it.
It's understandable that some audiences aren't going to enjoy Burton's adaption. Some may even say he ruined it. No, two people are going to read a book and tell you they pictured the same thing, why? Because we all have a different imagination. At the end of the day, Burton may have pictured the story differently to Director Mel Stuart. It sits well with me, but it's understandable it won't sit well with others. The storyline is completely absurd, personally, it works. The only thing that really irritates me, I'm sorry to say, is the soundtrack. The score to the original film was fun and magical, Burton couldn't of gone further in another direction when it came to the score, by fantastic composer Danny Elfman. Knowing Burton, it was probably done deliberately, to add to the tone of the film. As awful as it does sound in some scenes, it's absolutely perfect too.
The factory scene is by far the most enchanting, everything, believe it or not, is actually made of chocolate. The lollipops on the tree's are real, it's incredible! I love the attention to detail. The production department have done an incredible job in creating a very real and lived in set. I love that Burton made a reference to "2001: A Space Oddessy" and Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho", too. I'm pretty sure there is a reference to "The Fly", in there too. You'll have to concentrate or you'll miss it. It's quick! Visually, it's stunning, the cinematography really is top-notch. It works perfectly with the storyline and adds to the tone of the film. It's outrageously awesome. If you're a fan of Tim Burton, you simply wouldn't expect anything else. A unique take, on one of the best children's story's of all time!
5/5 stars
Twitter: Tamara2000 - Check for updates, movie reviews and more!
E-mail: djtamaramarie@yahoo.co.uk
Director: Tim Burton
Release Date: 2005
Running Time: 1hr 50 minutes
Genre: Adventure/Family
Rating: PG
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Synopsis:
A young boy wins a tour through the most magnificent chocolate factory, in the world, led by the world's most unusual candy maker.
Based on the best-selling children's book of the same name by Roald Dahl. Director Tim Burton delivers a truly unique adaption of the story. Charlie (Highmore), lives in the world's tiniest house with his parents and grandparents. Although his father works in a toothpaste factory, they're very poor and live on Cabbage water. It is announced that chocolatier extraordinaire Willy Wonka is letting five children into his factory to look around, on the basis they find a golden ticket in one of his Wonka bars. After stumbling across some money on the floor, Charlie decides to buy a Wonka bar, to his luck, he finds a golden ticket! The adventure that unfolds around him is truly enchanting! Fun loving Johnny Depp, delivers one of his most magical performances as Willy Wonka! Rumour has it, he based his character on singing legend Michael Jackson! I can sort of see the resemblance. His character looks pretty awesome none the less.
Freddie Highmore stars as innocent Charlie Bucket, a remarkable child actor, who now can you believe stars as Norman Bates in "Bates Motel", alongside Vera Farmiga. Freddie is truly fantastic, I think a lot of children will be able to relate to him. Although I am a massive fan of the original film, I do really appreciate how Burton chose to go into more depth with his characters, the children in particular. It's been modernised, of course it has. That does however mean that Burton has made quite a few changes to the film. Voilet Beauregard is now a gum chewing, karate chopping, brat, who turns up with her mother instead of her father, we're shown Wonka's backstory, something really I would have loved to have seen in the original film. We're also introduced to Wonka's father which came as a very pleasant surprise when I found him to be played by the talented Christopher Lee.
Burton chose a fantastic cast for the film, with the likes of David Kelly (Grandpa), Noah Taylor (Mr Bucket) and Helena Boham Carter as Mrs Bucket. Although they don't have the biggest of roles, each of them has great significance to the storyline. I've come to the conclusion that actress Helena Boham Carter is incredible, regardless of who she plays. It's best to expect the unexpected when it comes to a Tim Burton movie. The characters are fantastically over the top and irritating. I really love that he chose Deep Roy to play the Oompah Loompas. I really love Tim Burton, his imagination is just incredible. So much detail has gone into each and every scene that I'd be here for ages just talking about it. I don't want to spoil it.
It's understandable that some audiences aren't going to enjoy Burton's adaption. Some may even say he ruined it. No, two people are going to read a book and tell you they pictured the same thing, why? Because we all have a different imagination. At the end of the day, Burton may have pictured the story differently to Director Mel Stuart. It sits well with me, but it's understandable it won't sit well with others. The storyline is completely absurd, personally, it works. The only thing that really irritates me, I'm sorry to say, is the soundtrack. The score to the original film was fun and magical, Burton couldn't of gone further in another direction when it came to the score, by fantastic composer Danny Elfman. Knowing Burton, it was probably done deliberately, to add to the tone of the film. As awful as it does sound in some scenes, it's absolutely perfect too.
The factory scene is by far the most enchanting, everything, believe it or not, is actually made of chocolate. The lollipops on the tree's are real, it's incredible! I love the attention to detail. The production department have done an incredible job in creating a very real and lived in set. I love that Burton made a reference to "2001: A Space Oddessy" and Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho", too. I'm pretty sure there is a reference to "The Fly", in there too. You'll have to concentrate or you'll miss it. It's quick! Visually, it's stunning, the cinematography really is top-notch. It works perfectly with the storyline and adds to the tone of the film. It's outrageously awesome. If you're a fan of Tim Burton, you simply wouldn't expect anything else. A unique take, on one of the best children's story's of all time!
Twitter: Tamara2000 - Check for updates, movie reviews and more!
E-mail: djtamaramarie@yahoo.co.uk
The Twilight Saga: New Moon
Cast: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Billy Burke, Anna Kendrick, Michael Welch, Ashley Greene, Jackson Rathborne, Taylor Lautner, Jamie Campbell Bower and Dakota Fanning.
Director: Chris Weitz
Release Date: 2009
Running Time: 2hrs 10 minutes
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 12
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
In the second instalment to the "Twilight" saga, Edward makes the strong choice that he must leave Bella in order to protect her. In the meantime, she seeks friendship from a werewolf, Jacob Black!
The Twilight Saga: New Moon! One of the most anticipated films of 2009! Am I going to say that everytime? Yes. Let's face it, it was true. Based on the novel of the same name, by Stephanie Meyer. Edward makes the strong decision to disappear from Bella's life, when an attack nearly claims her life. Lost in her emotions, she turns to friend Jacob Black! Before long, Bella finds that Jacob is more then just a friend, he's a werewolf too! Were you Team Jacob or Team Edward? Was that even really a thing? My college years, were pretty embarrassing. Why is it, whenever a sequel is put into place, it's directed by someone new? Director Chris Weitz stands behind the camera this time, and if I am honest, this film is great in comparison to "Twilight", I honestly got the impression that director Catherine Hardwicke didn't really know what she was doing. Harsh? It's just my opinion. It'll appeal to teens for years to come and that's perfectly alright.
Is the storyline enjoyable? In comparison to the first? Yes. Much darker then the first film. We have a clearer insight into the world of vampires, they don't particularly like werewolves, but they're willing to get along with them. Bella has now officially been welcomed into the Cullen family, throwing her a birthday party. Although, things soon start to go wrong. Bella is meant to be somewhat emotionless to some degree, but I think Kristen Stewart really pushes it over the mark, to being downright boring, sadly it makes it appear like Stewart fails at delivering any characterisation at all. Stewart's performance doesn't feel real, it feels as though she has to force her lines out. Robert Pattinson's performance however was actually very good, he's intense and the persona that comes from his characterisation works well, given that he is distancing himself away from Bella.
This is the film where we are properly introduced to Jacob Black, played by Taylor Lautner. Bella finds herself torn between Jacob and Edward. Lautner's performance is actually very good, he makes a good werewolf. Is Bella better suited to Jacob? Personally? Yes. For the most part, the story evolves around the both of them. You don't see a great deal of Edward until the second chapter of the movie, then it starts to get really interesting! We're introduced to Caius, Jane and Aro, Aro played remarkably by Michael Sheen, a fantastic character actor, one of my favourite actors actually. His performance is incredible, he's dark, sinister and mysterious. He works beautifully with Dakota Fanning who plays Jane. Fanning has come very far since her "Cat in the Hat" days, she's really starting to prove herself as an actress. She's excellent as Jane. I really love where her character goes, as the films progress.
How are the special effects compared to the first? Sadly, not a lot better. Unfortunately a few scenes still look rather messy. The score doesn't do a lot for the movie, however I do like that Weitz chose a more contemporary soundtrack this time. It works really well for a couple of scenes and works well with the storyline. Cinematographer Javier Aguirresarobe has done a good job, perhaps he learnt from the first film, that a grey tint covering the film really doesn't work. Chris Weitz manages to make the film dark, without pushing it overboard. It's a really good balance. I'm not the biggest "Twilight" fan as you may have worked out. I did however enjoy this one a lot more in comparison to the first, and I really think the films get better from here on wards. It's just a shame they don't start off as exciting.
4/5 stars
Director: Chris Weitz
Release Date: 2009
Running Time: 2hrs 10 minutes
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 12
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
In the second instalment to the "Twilight" saga, Edward makes the strong choice that he must leave Bella in order to protect her. In the meantime, she seeks friendship from a werewolf, Jacob Black!
Is the storyline enjoyable? In comparison to the first? Yes. Much darker then the first film. We have a clearer insight into the world of vampires, they don't particularly like werewolves, but they're willing to get along with them. Bella has now officially been welcomed into the Cullen family, throwing her a birthday party. Although, things soon start to go wrong. Bella is meant to be somewhat emotionless to some degree, but I think Kristen Stewart really pushes it over the mark, to being downright boring, sadly it makes it appear like Stewart fails at delivering any characterisation at all. Stewart's performance doesn't feel real, it feels as though she has to force her lines out. Robert Pattinson's performance however was actually very good, he's intense and the persona that comes from his characterisation works well, given that he is distancing himself away from Bella.
This is the film where we are properly introduced to Jacob Black, played by Taylor Lautner. Bella finds herself torn between Jacob and Edward. Lautner's performance is actually very good, he makes a good werewolf. Is Bella better suited to Jacob? Personally? Yes. For the most part, the story evolves around the both of them. You don't see a great deal of Edward until the second chapter of the movie, then it starts to get really interesting! We're introduced to Caius, Jane and Aro, Aro played remarkably by Michael Sheen, a fantastic character actor, one of my favourite actors actually. His performance is incredible, he's dark, sinister and mysterious. He works beautifully with Dakota Fanning who plays Jane. Fanning has come very far since her "Cat in the Hat" days, she's really starting to prove herself as an actress. She's excellent as Jane. I really love where her character goes, as the films progress.
4/5 stars
Monday 17 July 2017
Twilight
Cast: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Sarah Clarke, Billy Burke, Gil Birmingham, Taylor Lautner, Justin Chon, Anna Kendrick, Michael Welch, Nikki Reed and Ashley Greene.
Director: Catherine Hardwicke
Release Date: 2008
Running Time: 2hrs 2 minutes
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 12
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
A young girl, Isabella Swan risks her life, to be with a charming vampire!
Based on the best selling novel of the same name by Stephanie Meyer. Director Catherine Hardwicke delivers one of the most anticipated film adaptions of 2008! After moving from Arizona to Washington to be with her father Charlie, Bella Swan has a hard time fitting into her new school, new town, new friends and a truck that's ancient. Before long, she meets dazzling Edward Cullen (Pattinson), Bella's never met a boy quite like him, before long she finds herself in a deadly romance, does she know his dark and deadly secret though? Did I mention that I'm not the biggest fan of vampire movies? I don't know whether to start picturing Dracula or a vampire bat. Starring Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson. The issue that I have with Stewart, is that she doesn't offer an ounce of characterisation, her acting is the same in every single movie that she's in. I'm sorry to say I had the same issue when watching her in "Snow White and the Huntsman", she's not the slightest bit convincing as Bella.
Robert Pattinson was an actor I originally only knew from "Harry Potter and the Goblet of fire", Pattinson's performance is actually rather good, the idea behind his character is that he is a vampire living in a modern world. The concept is really cool, its different. They don't sleep, they don't eat and they love playing baseball during a thunderstorm. It's understandable why so many fell in love with the novels. If I am brutally honest, I can't stand Kristen Stewart, Pattinson and herself don't have an ounce of chemistry on screen together. Aren't they supposed to be in love? Billy Burke who plays her father, delivers a good performance as Police Officer Swan. One of the very few actors in the movie who actually comes across as very convincing.
Contrary to popular belief, Taylor Lautner who plays Jacob does not have the biggest role in this film. His character progresses as the films go on. It's rather difficult to judge his performance from a very tiny scene at the beginning of the film. His character certainly changes as the films go on. There isn't much to his character in this story. The problem isn't the screenplay, but more the actors who are portraying the characters. For some, it'll be exactly how they pictured the characters, for others it won't. I am judging this purely as a film. The acting couldn't be anymore boring. It really puts a downer on the film.
The cinematography is far from impressive. I don't particularly like the grey tint that covers the film. Although the story as a whole is quite dark, I don't know that it was the best choice of lighting for the film. The editing in the second chapter, feels very messy. The special effects don't look fantastic. There are only really a few scenes in the film that look very good, mainly because Director Catherine Hardwicke chose to use some colour for the scenes. It's amazing what the lighting can do to a scene. There isn't enough of it, in this film. Sadly, for me, that s what made the film so unenjoyable. I wasn't captivated, I wasn't thrilled. Besides the beautiful song "Bella's lullaby" that was use in the film. The score irritates me intensely. It makes the story so much darker then it needed to be. If you compare it to the other movies in the Saga, this one looks really poor in comparison. Bland and boring.
3/5 stars
Director: Catherine Hardwicke
Release Date: 2008
Running Time: 2hrs 2 minutes
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 12
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
A young girl, Isabella Swan risks her life, to be with a charming vampire!
Based on the best selling novel of the same name by Stephanie Meyer. Director Catherine Hardwicke delivers one of the most anticipated film adaptions of 2008! After moving from Arizona to Washington to be with her father Charlie, Bella Swan has a hard time fitting into her new school, new town, new friends and a truck that's ancient. Before long, she meets dazzling Edward Cullen (Pattinson), Bella's never met a boy quite like him, before long she finds herself in a deadly romance, does she know his dark and deadly secret though? Did I mention that I'm not the biggest fan of vampire movies? I don't know whether to start picturing Dracula or a vampire bat. Starring Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson. The issue that I have with Stewart, is that she doesn't offer an ounce of characterisation, her acting is the same in every single movie that she's in. I'm sorry to say I had the same issue when watching her in "Snow White and the Huntsman", she's not the slightest bit convincing as Bella.
Robert Pattinson was an actor I originally only knew from "Harry Potter and the Goblet of fire", Pattinson's performance is actually rather good, the idea behind his character is that he is a vampire living in a modern world. The concept is really cool, its different. They don't sleep, they don't eat and they love playing baseball during a thunderstorm. It's understandable why so many fell in love with the novels. If I am brutally honest, I can't stand Kristen Stewart, Pattinson and herself don't have an ounce of chemistry on screen together. Aren't they supposed to be in love? Billy Burke who plays her father, delivers a good performance as Police Officer Swan. One of the very few actors in the movie who actually comes across as very convincing.
Contrary to popular belief, Taylor Lautner who plays Jacob does not have the biggest role in this film. His character progresses as the films go on. It's rather difficult to judge his performance from a very tiny scene at the beginning of the film. His character certainly changes as the films go on. There isn't much to his character in this story. The problem isn't the screenplay, but more the actors who are portraying the characters. For some, it'll be exactly how they pictured the characters, for others it won't. I am judging this purely as a film. The acting couldn't be anymore boring. It really puts a downer on the film.
3/5 stars
Saturday 15 July 2017
Beauty and the Beast (2017)
Cast: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans, Josh Gad, Kevin Kline, Ewan McGregor, Ian Mckellen, Emma Thompson, Nathan Mack and Stanley Tucci.
Director: Bill Condon
Release Date: 2017
Running Time: 2hrs 9 minutes
Genre: Fantasy/Musical
Rating: PG
Format: Blu-Ray
Synopsis:
An adaption of the beautiful fairytale about a very mysterious looking prince and a young woman who fall deeply in love!
Twenty-seven years ago, Walt Disney delivered one of the most beautiful animations to ever hit our screens, Beauty and the Beast! Director Bill Condon welcomes audiences with one of the most stunning live action adaptations in recent years, really putting recent adaptations such as "The Jungle Book" and "Sleeping Beauty" to shame. The story begins in an enchanting castle, a selfish prince turns away a beggar woman who turns out to be a beautiful princess, although he begs for forgiveness, he is turned into a hideous beast (Stevens) as punishment, for he has shown his true colours. As the years pass by, bookworm Belle (Watson) stumbles across the castle in search of her missing father, quickly finding herself in the arms of the beast and the enchanting characters that surround him.
The characters are fantastically endearing, with a tremendous cast that really allow them to come to life. Although Emma Watson wouldn't have been my first choice to play Belle, she delivers a terrific performance, there were however a few scenes that had room for improvement. Dan Stevens too, wouldn't of been my first choice to play the beast, however he delivers a very good performance, supporting his character with terrific facial expressions and movements. Ewan McGregor really stands out as the loveable candlestick Lumiere. Flirtatious and funny, McGregor really brings the character of Lumiere to life, delivering a lovely balance of humour and drama to the story. Luke Evans stars as ruthless and arrogant Gaston, true to the original character, Evans is truly excellent.
Unlike previous Disney live action adaptations, director Bill Condon has really gone to great lengths in making the story as authentic as the original animation, making it identical frame by frame. It's unfortunate that previous filmmakers have not made this this conscious choice early in production. Beautiful and captivating, packed full of colour and a gorgeous array of lighting, this adaptation really is like no other. The fantastic use of production design, cinematography and lighting is what really brings this magical story to life, in ensuring it's authenticity. Stunning costume design that will make every girl and young woman wish they were inside Belle's wardrobe, colourful and elegant, the attention to detail is just exquisite.
Packed full of fun, Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans and Ewan McGregor, all deliver outstanding singing performances. Any true Disney fan will find themselves in their element upon watching this stunning masterpiece with hit songs "Be our guest" and "Belle reprise", Disney fans will not find themselves dissapointed. Magical, beautifully entertaining and packed full of fun. One of the best live action Disney adaptations to be shown in recent years.
5/5 stars
Director: Bill Condon
Release Date: 2017
Running Time: 2hrs 9 minutes
Genre: Fantasy/Musical
Rating: PG
Format: Blu-Ray
Synopsis:
An adaption of the beautiful fairytale about a very mysterious looking prince and a young woman who fall deeply in love!
Twenty-seven years ago, Walt Disney delivered one of the most beautiful animations to ever hit our screens, Beauty and the Beast! Director Bill Condon welcomes audiences with one of the most stunning live action adaptations in recent years, really putting recent adaptations such as "The Jungle Book" and "Sleeping Beauty" to shame. The story begins in an enchanting castle, a selfish prince turns away a beggar woman who turns out to be a beautiful princess, although he begs for forgiveness, he is turned into a hideous beast (Stevens) as punishment, for he has shown his true colours. As the years pass by, bookworm Belle (Watson) stumbles across the castle in search of her missing father, quickly finding herself in the arms of the beast and the enchanting characters that surround him.
The characters are fantastically endearing, with a tremendous cast that really allow them to come to life. Although Emma Watson wouldn't have been my first choice to play Belle, she delivers a terrific performance, there were however a few scenes that had room for improvement. Dan Stevens too, wouldn't of been my first choice to play the beast, however he delivers a very good performance, supporting his character with terrific facial expressions and movements. Ewan McGregor really stands out as the loveable candlestick Lumiere. Flirtatious and funny, McGregor really brings the character of Lumiere to life, delivering a lovely balance of humour and drama to the story. Luke Evans stars as ruthless and arrogant Gaston, true to the original character, Evans is truly excellent.
Unlike previous Disney live action adaptations, director Bill Condon has really gone to great lengths in making the story as authentic as the original animation, making it identical frame by frame. It's unfortunate that previous filmmakers have not made this this conscious choice early in production. Beautiful and captivating, packed full of colour and a gorgeous array of lighting, this adaptation really is like no other. The fantastic use of production design, cinematography and lighting is what really brings this magical story to life, in ensuring it's authenticity. Stunning costume design that will make every girl and young woman wish they were inside Belle's wardrobe, colourful and elegant, the attention to detail is just exquisite.
Packed full of fun, Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans and Ewan McGregor, all deliver outstanding singing performances. Any true Disney fan will find themselves in their element upon watching this stunning masterpiece with hit songs "Be our guest" and "Belle reprise", Disney fans will not find themselves dissapointed. Magical, beautifully entertaining and packed full of fun. One of the best live action Disney adaptations to be shown in recent years.
5/5 stars
Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Cast: Robby Benson, Jesse Corti, Rex Everheart, Angela Lansbury, Paige O Hara, Jerry Orbach, Bradley Pierce and David Ogden Stiers.
Director: Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise
Release Date: 1991
Running Time: 1hr 24 minutes
Genre: Disney/Animation
Rating: U
Format: Blu-Ray
Synopsis:
A stunning live action adaption of the beautiful fairytale Beauty and the Beast!
I can remember watching this when I was a child and crying at the end every single time. I have a confession. I still cry at the end. This is quite possibly one of Walt Disney's best masterpieces. Beautifully touching and fantastically entertaining! A selfish prince is cursed by a mysterious enchantress. His only way to change and learn is to love a young woman and earn her love in return, in order to redeem himself. When Belle's father Maurice stumbles across the castle, he's taken prisoner, Belle offers to take his place. With the help of the incredibly enchanted staff, Belle soon learns to appreciate her captor and soon falls in love with him. However, a hunter called Gaston has other plans for her!
The storyline is magnificently enchanting. Paige O'Hara who voices Belle is absolutely perfect, O'Hara's performance is stunning, with an equally as stunning voice. Audiences will soon find themselves falling in love with the opening number "Belle", performed beautifully by O'Hara. A terrific start to the film. Rex Everheart's performance as Maurice is excellent. The relationship that he has with his daughter is emotional and touching, it's clear that he brought her up from a very young age and would do anything for her. The town's people think of him as a crack pot inventor. Little do they know, how incredible his inventions actually are.
The beast! Robby Benson is truly incredible, with the help of Disney's gorgeous animation, he's absolutely terrifying. I love watching the beast and watching how beautifully his character changes through out the course of the film, as he too begins to fall in love with Belle. Of course, who can forget the beast's enchanting staff, Mrs Potts, Chip, Lumiere, Cogsworth, Wardrobe, Bimbette and Stove. The amazing voice work of Bradley Pierce, Angela Lansbury, Jerry Orbach, Jo Anne Worley and Brian Cummings is just tremendous. The characters work marvellously together.
Angela Lansbury was so excellently cast as Mrs Potts, she looks after all the staff, especially little Chips, you can't help but fall in love with both of their characters. We can't forget nasty Gaston played sensationally by Richard White. Cocky and 110% in love with himself, his character is great. A nasty man who wants Belle for his bride! Of course, she knows better then that and karma soon catches up with him. All of the characters really are enchanting and magical and really bring the film to life.
I cannot even tell you how exquisite the animation is, at twenty-six years old, it's very hard to believe. It'd be so easy to think this was made yesterday. The picture quality of the Blu-Ray is incredible. The gorgeous colours from the animation really stand out. The dance sequence between Belle and the Beast is beautiful, with Angela Lansbury singing, she delivers one of Disney's most magical performances. The scene will bring a tear to your eye, you'll find yourself singing "Tale as old as time", continuously afterwards. Incredibly shot, the film is a masterpiece and will be for years to come! The film's score is remarkable, with catchy songs like "Belle" and "Be our Guest", it really brings the story to life. The soundtrack could tell the story all on it's own. Beautifully sung by the cast, its just as famous as the film! Absolutely perfect for Disney fans who want a better quality of the film, the Blu-Ray certainly won't disappoint. A beautifully touching film, one that is surely not to be missed by any die hard Disney fan.
5/5 stars
Director: Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise
Release Date: 1991
Running Time: 1hr 24 minutes
Genre: Disney/Animation
Rating: U
Format: Blu-Ray
Synopsis:
A stunning live action adaption of the beautiful fairytale Beauty and the Beast!
I can remember watching this when I was a child and crying at the end every single time. I have a confession. I still cry at the end. This is quite possibly one of Walt Disney's best masterpieces. Beautifully touching and fantastically entertaining! A selfish prince is cursed by a mysterious enchantress. His only way to change and learn is to love a young woman and earn her love in return, in order to redeem himself. When Belle's father Maurice stumbles across the castle, he's taken prisoner, Belle offers to take his place. With the help of the incredibly enchanted staff, Belle soon learns to appreciate her captor and soon falls in love with him. However, a hunter called Gaston has other plans for her!
The storyline is magnificently enchanting. Paige O'Hara who voices Belle is absolutely perfect, O'Hara's performance is stunning, with an equally as stunning voice. Audiences will soon find themselves falling in love with the opening number "Belle", performed beautifully by O'Hara. A terrific start to the film. Rex Everheart's performance as Maurice is excellent. The relationship that he has with his daughter is emotional and touching, it's clear that he brought her up from a very young age and would do anything for her. The town's people think of him as a crack pot inventor. Little do they know, how incredible his inventions actually are.
The beast! Robby Benson is truly incredible, with the help of Disney's gorgeous animation, he's absolutely terrifying. I love watching the beast and watching how beautifully his character changes through out the course of the film, as he too begins to fall in love with Belle. Of course, who can forget the beast's enchanting staff, Mrs Potts, Chip, Lumiere, Cogsworth, Wardrobe, Bimbette and Stove. The amazing voice work of Bradley Pierce, Angela Lansbury, Jerry Orbach, Jo Anne Worley and Brian Cummings is just tremendous. The characters work marvellously together.
Angela Lansbury was so excellently cast as Mrs Potts, she looks after all the staff, especially little Chips, you can't help but fall in love with both of their characters. We can't forget nasty Gaston played sensationally by Richard White. Cocky and 110% in love with himself, his character is great. A nasty man who wants Belle for his bride! Of course, she knows better then that and karma soon catches up with him. All of the characters really are enchanting and magical and really bring the film to life.
I cannot even tell you how exquisite the animation is, at twenty-six years old, it's very hard to believe. It'd be so easy to think this was made yesterday. The picture quality of the Blu-Ray is incredible. The gorgeous colours from the animation really stand out. The dance sequence between Belle and the Beast is beautiful, with Angela Lansbury singing, she delivers one of Disney's most magical performances. The scene will bring a tear to your eye, you'll find yourself singing "Tale as old as time", continuously afterwards. Incredibly shot, the film is a masterpiece and will be for years to come! The film's score is remarkable, with catchy songs like "Belle" and "Be our Guest", it really brings the story to life. The soundtrack could tell the story all on it's own. Beautifully sung by the cast, its just as famous as the film! Absolutely perfect for Disney fans who want a better quality of the film, the Blu-Ray certainly won't disappoint. A beautifully touching film, one that is surely not to be missed by any die hard Disney fan.
5/5 stars
Friday 14 July 2017
Finding Neverland
Cast: Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet, Freddie Highmore, Julie Christie, Redha Mitchell, Dustin Hoffman and Joe Prospero.
Director: Marc Forster
Release Date: 2004
Running Time: 1hr 36 minutes
Genre: Biography/Drama
Rating: PG
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Synopsis:
Did you ever wonder how author, J.M Barrie came up with the incredible character Peter Pan? This is the story of the friendship with a family that inspired him!
Set in 1903, playwright J.M Barrie's latest play sadly didn't earn him very many positive reviews. This failure places pressure on him to write a new play fast, in order to replace the failure, to keep the theatre viable. Whilst out walking his dog, James stumbles across the Llewelyn family, recently widowed Sylvia Davies (Kate Winslet) and her four sons. After soon spending time with the family, he soon conjures up the story that we all know and love, Peter Pan! I've lost count of how many adaptions there are of "Peter Pan", Walt Disney's probably being the most famous! However until this film was released, no one truly knew how he came up with the incredible story. It's terribly fascinating.
Dustan Hoffman who also starred in the film adaption of "Peter Pan", in "Hook", has a very interesting character as Charles Frohman. I don't want to say a lot about his character, but it has great significance to the story. Despite Peter Pan, being a very magical story, the film is quite emotional, it's not unusual to find that in the darkest of times, magic is created! The setting is perfect for the time in which the film is set, the costumes are perfect and match the characters beautifully, particularly Sylvia's boys. Fantastically shot, Marc Forster has chosen to use stunning shots to create really magical scenes, particularly during the play, in the second chapter of the film. The cinematography is nothing spectacular, however it doesn't need to be in order for this movie to work and be entertaining! The magic comes from the storyline and the performances of the actors.
Director: Marc Forster
Release Date: 2004
Running Time: 1hr 36 minutes
Genre: Biography/Drama
Rating: PG
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Synopsis:
Did you ever wonder how author, J.M Barrie came up with the incredible character Peter Pan? This is the story of the friendship with a family that inspired him!
Set in 1903, playwright J.M Barrie's latest play sadly didn't earn him very many positive reviews. This failure places pressure on him to write a new play fast, in order to replace the failure, to keep the theatre viable. Whilst out walking his dog, James stumbles across the Llewelyn family, recently widowed Sylvia Davies (Kate Winslet) and her four sons. After soon spending time with the family, he soon conjures up the story that we all know and love, Peter Pan! I've lost count of how many adaptions there are of "Peter Pan", Walt Disney's probably being the most famous! However until this film was released, no one truly knew how he came up with the incredible story. It's terribly fascinating.
The storyline is magnificent, as it progresses you really start to put all of the pieces together in seeing what inspired J.M Barrie to write his book. I really love how Director Marc Forster has chosen to show that through the children playing make believe. Cowboys and Indians, pirates and jumping up and down on beds, it all starts to make sense. Johnny Depp delivers, really quite a remarkable performance as Scottish author J.M Barrie, Depp is an incredible character actor, his Scottish accent is fabulous. His character is magical in his own right, a very childlike quality, a man who always wants to have fun! To never grow up! Let's face it, none of us want to grow up! Many of us as adults, are still waiting to grow up. After understanding that Barrie doesn't share the best relationship with his wife, it's clear he gets lost in his writing, as his way of coping.
Kate Winslet's performance as Sylvia Davies is very good, a loving mother who'd do anything for her boys. Although, she too hides a dark secret. Freddie Highmore, is absolutely incredible as Peter Davies, believe it or not, he was actually not the inspiration for the book, his brother Michael was, despite the name, Peter Pan! Highmore is a very underrated actor that delivers more convincing roles then those who have been acting twenty or thirty years. The friendship that he shares with Barrie is wonderful, soon finding inspiration himself to write plays and keep a journal.
Dustan Hoffman who also starred in the film adaption of "Peter Pan", in "Hook", has a very interesting character as Charles Frohman. I don't want to say a lot about his character, but it has great significance to the story. Despite Peter Pan, being a very magical story, the film is quite emotional, it's not unusual to find that in the darkest of times, magic is created! The setting is perfect for the time in which the film is set, the costumes are perfect and match the characters beautifully, particularly Sylvia's boys. Fantastically shot, Marc Forster has chosen to use stunning shots to create really magical scenes, particularly during the play, in the second chapter of the film. The cinematography is nothing spectacular, however it doesn't need to be in order for this movie to work and be entertaining! The magic comes from the storyline and the performances of the actors.
A terrific film, with a deep and meaningful background, Johnny Depp is delightful! You will find yourself looking at the story of "Peter Pan", in a completely different light. Brilliantly paced, fantastically magical and entertaining! Perfect for those who wish not to grow up! A story, that is certain to bring a tear to your eye!
5/5 stars!
Thursday 13 July 2017
The Day after Tomorrow
Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Dennis Quaid, Emmy Rossum, Dash Mihok, Austin Nicholls, Sela Ward and Ian Holm.
Director: Roland Emmerich
Release Date: 2004
Running Time: 2hrs 4 minutes
Genre: Action
Rating: 12
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
Climatologist Jack Hall, must risk his life, trecking across America to reach his son Sam who is trapped inside a library in New York, after the world is plunged into a new Ice Age!
I always find that disaster movies are generally rather far fetched. Depending on the storyline and the subject. This one, really isn't that far fetched at all. In fact, I believe it opened the eyes to a lot of scientists, in understanding what could potentially happen to our planet if we continue to look after it they way we do. Whilst in Antarctica, scientist Jack Hall discovers that a huge ice sheet has sheared off, however what he doesn't realise is that this event will trigger a terrifying climate shift. Meanwhile, Jack's son Sam (Gyllenhaal), is in New York attending a school event, before long he is trapped when New York suddenly plunges into a dark Ice Age. Disaster movies can be rather irritating for some, they're normally so ridiculous they become unwatchable. I love that Director Roland Emmerich chose to write a story that is honestly a threat for our planet right now. There are moments that are exceptionally exaggerated and far fetched, but for the most part, it could very much happen, if we aren't careful.
Jack Hall is not your normal cocky scientist, he really knows his subject and does everything he can to warn the President of the United States that our planet is going through a serious climate shift. Sam, is equally as bright and due to his knowledge is able to warn his friends and those in New York City of the dangers that are coming. The storyline has been fantastically written by Director Roland Emmerich. What's most impressive about the storyline, is that Emmerich was able to write a storyline that to some degree is so scientifically accurate, it's frightening. They say when the tsunami hit Thailand in 2004, the elephants started to behave strangely before the wave hit, they could feel the vibrations from the earthquake. The animals in the New York Zoo start to behave strangely just before the storm starts. It's the little things in the storyline that make it so terrific. The only part of the storyline that is ridiculous far fetched Is the speed in which everything happens.
I really appreciate that despite it being a disaster movie, Roland Emmerich was able to add moments of humour to the storyline. It's balances the storyline out beautifully. Dennis Quaid delivers an excellent performances as Jack Hall, his characterisation is fantastic, I love the enthusiasm that surrounds his character. Jake Gyllenhaal had just come out of doing teen roles when he filmed this movie, his performance is very good, he is essentially the lead role, although I would say Dennis Quaid and himself share it. The only thing, that was slightly disappointing personally, was that Director Roland Emmerich mentions that the climate change is taking place all over the world, however we are only shown America. It would have been really nice to have seen some scenes set in other countries to see what was happening there. It's a very closed storyline in that sense. I think, showing a bit more would of added even more excitement to the storyline.
The soundtrack really defines this film, it works so fantastically alongside the storyline, creating serious suspense and tension in particular scenes. It would really be nothing without it. The special effects do look a little bit dated, however for a movie that is now thirteen years old, it still looks pretty awesome! The special effects in the scenes shot in New York City are excellent and look very realistic and genuine. As action sequences they really are fantastic and are quite frightening to watch at times. This movie is all about survival, what would you do if suddenly a fierce storm hit, sending the world into a new Ice Age? The thought is pretty terrifying! It's hard to say what anyone of us would do! The production design is good, however there isn't much of a set, the vast majority of the movie is very clever CGI and cinematography.
As far as disaster movies goes, this is one of the best out there! Mainly because it hit on a subject that was at the time in the news frequently and still is, essentially. Climate change is taking place all the time. Not on this level, but it's happening. The acting and the plot are what really define this movie as a whole. The special effects and cinematography are very good, but the acting and the storyline are the two things that really stand out! The characters are magnificent, I loved Jake Gyllenhaal, Dennis Quaid, still has so much going for him as an actor, he's amazing! The ending is brilliant and not necessarily what most would expect. If you're a fan of disaster movies, then I'd definitely give this one a go!
4/5 stars
Director: Roland Emmerich
Release Date: 2004
Running Time: 2hrs 4 minutes
Genre: Action
Rating: 12
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
Climatologist Jack Hall, must risk his life, trecking across America to reach his son Sam who is trapped inside a library in New York, after the world is plunged into a new Ice Age!
Jack Hall is not your normal cocky scientist, he really knows his subject and does everything he can to warn the President of the United States that our planet is going through a serious climate shift. Sam, is equally as bright and due to his knowledge is able to warn his friends and those in New York City of the dangers that are coming. The storyline has been fantastically written by Director Roland Emmerich. What's most impressive about the storyline, is that Emmerich was able to write a storyline that to some degree is so scientifically accurate, it's frightening. They say when the tsunami hit Thailand in 2004, the elephants started to behave strangely before the wave hit, they could feel the vibrations from the earthquake. The animals in the New York Zoo start to behave strangely just before the storm starts. It's the little things in the storyline that make it so terrific. The only part of the storyline that is ridiculous far fetched Is the speed in which everything happens.
I really appreciate that despite it being a disaster movie, Roland Emmerich was able to add moments of humour to the storyline. It's balances the storyline out beautifully. Dennis Quaid delivers an excellent performances as Jack Hall, his characterisation is fantastic, I love the enthusiasm that surrounds his character. Jake Gyllenhaal had just come out of doing teen roles when he filmed this movie, his performance is very good, he is essentially the lead role, although I would say Dennis Quaid and himself share it. The only thing, that was slightly disappointing personally, was that Director Roland Emmerich mentions that the climate change is taking place all over the world, however we are only shown America. It would have been really nice to have seen some scenes set in other countries to see what was happening there. It's a very closed storyline in that sense. I think, showing a bit more would of added even more excitement to the storyline.
As far as disaster movies goes, this is one of the best out there! Mainly because it hit on a subject that was at the time in the news frequently and still is, essentially. Climate change is taking place all the time. Not on this level, but it's happening. The acting and the plot are what really define this movie as a whole. The special effects and cinematography are very good, but the acting and the storyline are the two things that really stand out! The characters are magnificent, I loved Jake Gyllenhaal, Dennis Quaid, still has so much going for him as an actor, he's amazing! The ending is brilliant and not necessarily what most would expect. If you're a fan of disaster movies, then I'd definitely give this one a go!
4/5 stars
Wednesday 12 July 2017
Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter
Cast: Benjamin Walker, Dominic Cooper, Anthony Mackie, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Cameron M. Brown.
Director: Timur Bekamambetov
Release Date: 2012
Running Time: 1hr 45 minutes
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 15
Synopsis:
The 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, discovers that vampires are planning to take over America. His mission? To destroy them.
The storyline is completely ludicrous, when they've got Abraham Lincoln as a vampire hunter, naturally the storyline is going to be ridiculous. I wouldn't however, necessarily say that is what is wrong with this film. I cannot however, warm to Benjamin Walker who plays Abraham Lincoln. He's not your typical leading man. The idea behind the storyline is actually very good, naturally when making a book into a film there are going to be a lot of changes, however If one was to go in search of a vampire movie, I'm not convinced this would be the one I'd turn to first. If you want my honest opinion? Tim Burton would have been perfect to direct this film. The storyline would work beautifully if it wasn't for the terrible acting.
Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Mary Todd Lincoln, sadly her performance wasn't much better. Although she really looks the part, I couldn't relate or warm to her character. Winstead doesn't deliver an ounce of characterization, again considering how fantastic the storyline is, it's a real shame. The dialogue between characters is very deadpan and boring, Director Timur Bakamambetov has relied heavily on beautiful cinematography, it's a shame that his direction and the performances of the actors doesn't live up to the same standards. The storyline takes far too long to get going. Unfortunately the trailer showed all of the best bits. Benjamin Walker's characterization as Abraham Lincoln as his character progresses is actually very good, it's just a shame the pacing of the film took far too long to show it's audiences of his fantastic portrayal. At almost an hour into the movie, I was finding myself very bored with the characters.
Perfect for those who are really into their vampires films! Sadly, one I will not be watching again!
Director: Timur Bekamambetov
Release Date: 2012
Running Time: 1hr 45 minutes
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 15
Synopsis:
The 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, discovers that vampires are planning to take over America. His mission? To destroy them.
If you were to say to someone, who was Abraham Lincoln? It's very unlikely the response you might get is that he is a vampire hunter! I think it's safe to say, that we can pretend, just for this movie that he was one! After watching his mother get killed by a vampire at age nine, Abraham grows up, making acquaintances with Henry Sturges who teaches him how to fight and what is required to kill a vampire. Abraham soon moves to Springfield, lawyer by day, vampire hunter by night. It's not long before he discovers that vampires are planning to take over the United States. He must do everything he can to put a stop to it. Based on the novel of the same name, Director Timur Bekamambetov brings us the fascinating film adaption.
The storyline is completely ludicrous, when they've got Abraham Lincoln as a vampire hunter, naturally the storyline is going to be ridiculous. I wouldn't however, necessarily say that is what is wrong with this film. I cannot however, warm to Benjamin Walker who plays Abraham Lincoln. He's not your typical leading man. The idea behind the storyline is actually very good, naturally when making a book into a film there are going to be a lot of changes, however If one was to go in search of a vampire movie, I'm not convinced this would be the one I'd turn to first. If you want my honest opinion? Tim Burton would have been perfect to direct this film. The storyline would work beautifully if it wasn't for the terrible acting.
Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Mary Todd Lincoln, sadly her performance wasn't much better. Although she really looks the part, I couldn't relate or warm to her character. Winstead doesn't deliver an ounce of characterization, again considering how fantastic the storyline is, it's a real shame. The dialogue between characters is very deadpan and boring, Director Timur Bakamambetov has relied heavily on beautiful cinematography, it's a shame that his direction and the performances of the actors doesn't live up to the same standards. The storyline takes far too long to get going. Unfortunately the trailer showed all of the best bits. Benjamin Walker's characterization as Abraham Lincoln as his character progresses is actually very good, it's just a shame the pacing of the film took far too long to show it's audiences of his fantastic portrayal. At almost an hour into the movie, I was finding myself very bored with the characters.
Beautifully shot, the cinematography certainly isn't at fault. The lighting is excellent and adds to the storyline and the tone of the film perfectly. It really works and looks fantastic! The setting is magnificent, that too really works well with the storyline and the tone of the film, I love the attention to detail that went into it. Amazingly shot with really impressive camera shots, visually the film is not at fault at all. The costumes are excellent and are very suitable for the characters. As the film progresses Benjamin Walker really starts to look the part, his hair and make up is terrific. It's exactly how one would expect Abraham Lincoln to look. Excellent. Although the film is clearly organised very well, certain scenes sadly do drag the film down. The action sequences are very nice, although I was expecting to see a bit more of them. The storyline is very good, but I was expecting far more! By the time I started to enjoy the movie there was only 30 minutes left.
Perfect for those who are really into their vampires films! Sadly, one I will not be watching again!
Saturday 8 July 2017
Pulp Fiction
Cast: John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson and Christopher Walken.
Director: Quentin Tarantino
Release Date: 1994
Running Time: 2hrs 28 minutes
Genre: Crime
Rating: 18
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Quentin Tarantino is very well known for his controversial films. Is he promoting violence? Absolutely not. He's a hardcore filmmaker! Is he one of my favourite Directors? Honestly? No. I am a little bit hit and miss when it comes to his films, and in all honestly it's down to the storyline every single time. Tarantino has an extremely unique approach to directing his films. They don't sit well with everyone. This is one of his most famous. Two hit men, Jules (Jackson) and Vincent (Travolta) are out to retrieve a suitcase stolen from their employer, mob boss Marsellus. Marsellus has also asked Vincent if he will take his wife Mia (Thurman) out for a few days, whilst he is out of town. Meanwhile, Butch (Willis), is an ageing boxer who is paid by Marsellus to lose his fight. Several different story's rolled into one? Essentially yes.
What is the film's purpose? I'm not entirely sure. Is Tarantino simply trying to show off his unique film technique's? Quentin Tarantino's direction, is not what is wrong with this film. Essentially, the storyline has been very well written by Tarantino and Roger Avery, however it wasn't anywhere near as thought provoking that I thought it was going to be. I was expecting something far more intriguing, far more exciting. A hardcore film. What I got personally, was four different story's that were very well directed and acted. Samuel L. Jackson plays hit man Jules, a ruthless man with a witty sense of humour, a very good performance from Jackson. His partner? Vincent Vega, performed by John Travolta. Although Travolta's performance is fantastic, I don't really see him as a hit-man. He's almost a bit too nice. Uma Thurman plays Marsellus's wife, Mia. Thurman's performance is very good, I really like her character, the chemistry that she has with John Travolta is excellent, particularly during a dance sequence. The actors are not the problem.
The storyline, is what I am having trouble with. Personally, Tarantino should of focused on the characters Vincent Vega and Jules Winnfield. Unfortunately when Bruce Willi's character Butch was introduced as was Christopher Walken's character Captain Koons, I lost interest. Willi's performance as boxer Butch is excellent, I just can't warm to his character. The story in which he is involved doesn't excite me. It prevents me, from wanting to watch more. The story's are linked, the second chapter is where it all starts to get exciting! It's just a shame it takes that long. There are a few twists and turns, moments that took me by surprise. Excellent. The action sequences when shown are very coherently shot and look great on screen! This is by no means a bad movie!
Tarantino seriously knows how to make a movie and how to make it look good! The cinematography is also not a fault here. It's a very nice looking movie. The production design works beautifully alongside the storyline and really, really adds to the tone of the movie. It's perfect in that sense. The dance sequence between John Travolta and Uma Thurman is excellent and works well with their characters. The scene in which it's set is to very high standards too, a very enjoyable scene, with fantastic choice of music by Chuck Berry. Although John Travolta's characterization did not match that of a gangster personally, he most certainly looks like one. Samuel L. Jackson is actually terrifying in this film. The scenes between John Travolta and himself really are magnificent. The costume and the make up department did good on this film! Really good!
Pulp Fiction is not a bad movie. It's not even close. I found the storyline to be a bit too confusing and found myself disliking characters, making for a boring experience half way through the film. I love that Quentin Tarantino makes an appearance. I really love the creativity behind the storyline. This film was simply not for me, I would however highly recommend it to hardcore Quentin Tarantino fans!
3/5 stars
Director: Quentin Tarantino
Release Date: 1994
Running Time: 2hrs 28 minutes
Genre: Crime
Rating: 18
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Quentin Tarantino is very well known for his controversial films. Is he promoting violence? Absolutely not. He's a hardcore filmmaker! Is he one of my favourite Directors? Honestly? No. I am a little bit hit and miss when it comes to his films, and in all honestly it's down to the storyline every single time. Tarantino has an extremely unique approach to directing his films. They don't sit well with everyone. This is one of his most famous. Two hit men, Jules (Jackson) and Vincent (Travolta) are out to retrieve a suitcase stolen from their employer, mob boss Marsellus. Marsellus has also asked Vincent if he will take his wife Mia (Thurman) out for a few days, whilst he is out of town. Meanwhile, Butch (Willis), is an ageing boxer who is paid by Marsellus to lose his fight. Several different story's rolled into one? Essentially yes.
What is the film's purpose? I'm not entirely sure. Is Tarantino simply trying to show off his unique film technique's? Quentin Tarantino's direction, is not what is wrong with this film. Essentially, the storyline has been very well written by Tarantino and Roger Avery, however it wasn't anywhere near as thought provoking that I thought it was going to be. I was expecting something far more intriguing, far more exciting. A hardcore film. What I got personally, was four different story's that were very well directed and acted. Samuel L. Jackson plays hit man Jules, a ruthless man with a witty sense of humour, a very good performance from Jackson. His partner? Vincent Vega, performed by John Travolta. Although Travolta's performance is fantastic, I don't really see him as a hit-man. He's almost a bit too nice. Uma Thurman plays Marsellus's wife, Mia. Thurman's performance is very good, I really like her character, the chemistry that she has with John Travolta is excellent, particularly during a dance sequence. The actors are not the problem.
The storyline, is what I am having trouble with. Personally, Tarantino should of focused on the characters Vincent Vega and Jules Winnfield. Unfortunately when Bruce Willi's character Butch was introduced as was Christopher Walken's character Captain Koons, I lost interest. Willi's performance as boxer Butch is excellent, I just can't warm to his character. The story in which he is involved doesn't excite me. It prevents me, from wanting to watch more. The story's are linked, the second chapter is where it all starts to get exciting! It's just a shame it takes that long. There are a few twists and turns, moments that took me by surprise. Excellent. The action sequences when shown are very coherently shot and look great on screen! This is by no means a bad movie!
Pulp Fiction is not a bad movie. It's not even close. I found the storyline to be a bit too confusing and found myself disliking characters, making for a boring experience half way through the film. I love that Quentin Tarantino makes an appearance. I really love the creativity behind the storyline. This film was simply not for me, I would however highly recommend it to hardcore Quentin Tarantino fans!
3/5 stars
Friday 7 July 2017
The Impossible
Cast: Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, Tom Holland and Samuel Joslin
Director: J.A Bayona
Release Date: 2012
Running Time: 1hr 53 minutes
Genre: Drama
Rating: PG-13
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Synopsis:
The incredible true story of a family who were caught in the terrifying Tsunami that hit Thailand in 2004!
Nothing could prepare the world for what happened on December 24th, 2004, when a tsunami hit Thailand. One can only imagine, how absolutely terrifying it must have been! This is a very underrated movie! Sadly, it didn't make all of it's money back at the box office, but believe me, this is really worth watching! This is the incredible true story of a family that survived the 2004 tsunami! Starring Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor, both of their performances are truly remarkable! Ewan McGregor's performance is so genuine and real that you can't help sympathizing with his character, the heartbreak, the fear, it's written all over his face.The storyline naturally, is an emotional roller-coaster from beginning to end. It'll make you cry, believe me it will! Tom Holland delivers an incredible performance for a child actor, Lucas is a real hero!
Making a film about such a sensitive subject is difficult, however what's unique about this one is the real Spanish family were involved through out the whole of filming. I'm not entirely sure why they made the family British in the movie? The storyline is pretty self explanatory to be honest, when the tsunami hits the family are separated, some sequences are a little bit graphic, so just as a warning for those that might find some scenes a little bit sensitive, especially if you have children. Real family member Maria Bolen, also help to write the storyline, in assuring that it was as accurate as possible. Despite the movie being about such a sensitive and frightening subject, it's also incredibly inspiring too!
The dialogue between Lucas and his mother is very real and emotional, what do you do in a circumstance like that? Run for you're life! Fight for survival. This movie really puts every disaster movie to shame. The emotion that comes from each actor is just incredible. Their amazing performances are really what make this movie so real and haunting! Real on the edge of your seat stuff, the suspense is truly thrilling! The colouring and the lighting works beautifully with the set and the storyline, bringing the story to life! Their injuries are haunting and graphic, the make up department certainly deserve the highest praise!
It's really quite spectacular, where do you even begin to reenact something so real? Beautifully shot in the real location in Thailand at the hotel that has now been rebuilt. Naturally, the wave sequences weren't shot there. That is, of course what makes the set design so impressive! It looks real, genuine, it's terrifying to watch! I really love how Director Bayona has chosen to use close ups and POV shots to emphasize what the characters are feeling on the impact of the wave! What's most impressive, about the way the film is shot, that at times you'd honestly believe you were watching real footage or a documentary. The wave sequences are frightening to watch! Each scene has been fantastically shot and looks amazing in each and every frame.
Beautifully edited and perfectly paced, thrilling from beginning to end! The fact that Director J.A Bayona has chosen not to use that much of a score really works well with the storyline, the film allows audiences to focus more on the actors and the action that's taking place! The lack of score allows the movie to feel and look very real! A very underrated movie. A real eye opener!
5/5 stars
Director: J.A Bayona
Release Date: 2012
Running Time: 1hr 53 minutes
Genre: Drama
Rating: PG-13
Format: Amazon Prime UK
Synopsis:
The incredible true story of a family who were caught in the terrifying Tsunami that hit Thailand in 2004!
Nothing could prepare the world for what happened on December 24th, 2004, when a tsunami hit Thailand. One can only imagine, how absolutely terrifying it must have been! This is a very underrated movie! Sadly, it didn't make all of it's money back at the box office, but believe me, this is really worth watching! This is the incredible true story of a family that survived the 2004 tsunami! Starring Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor, both of their performances are truly remarkable! Ewan McGregor's performance is so genuine and real that you can't help sympathizing with his character, the heartbreak, the fear, it's written all over his face.The storyline naturally, is an emotional roller-coaster from beginning to end. It'll make you cry, believe me it will! Tom Holland delivers an incredible performance for a child actor, Lucas is a real hero!
Making a film about such a sensitive subject is difficult, however what's unique about this one is the real Spanish family were involved through out the whole of filming. I'm not entirely sure why they made the family British in the movie? The storyline is pretty self explanatory to be honest, when the tsunami hits the family are separated, some sequences are a little bit graphic, so just as a warning for those that might find some scenes a little bit sensitive, especially if you have children. Real family member Maria Bolen, also help to write the storyline, in assuring that it was as accurate as possible. Despite the movie being about such a sensitive and frightening subject, it's also incredibly inspiring too!
The dialogue between Lucas and his mother is very real and emotional, what do you do in a circumstance like that? Run for you're life! Fight for survival. This movie really puts every disaster movie to shame. The emotion that comes from each actor is just incredible. Their amazing performances are really what make this movie so real and haunting! Real on the edge of your seat stuff, the suspense is truly thrilling! The colouring and the lighting works beautifully with the set and the storyline, bringing the story to life! Their injuries are haunting and graphic, the make up department certainly deserve the highest praise!
Beautifully edited and perfectly paced, thrilling from beginning to end! The fact that Director J.A Bayona has chosen not to use that much of a score really works well with the storyline, the film allows audiences to focus more on the actors and the action that's taking place! The lack of score allows the movie to feel and look very real! A very underrated movie. A real eye opener!
5/5 stars
Spider-Man: Homecoming
Cast: Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Robert Downey Jr, Marisa Tomei, Jon Favreau, Gwyneth Paltrow and Tony Revolori.
Director: John Watts
Release Date: 2017
Running Time: 2hrs 13 minutes
Genre: Action
Rating: PG-13
Format: Theatrical Cinema Release
Synopsis:
Months have passed since the events that took place in "Captain America: Civil War", Peter Parker and his mentor Iron Man try to balance his life as an ordinary teenager in Queens, New York and fighting crime as his ulter-ego superhero Spiderman!
One of the most anticipated movies of the Summer, is finally here! Spider-Man: Homecoming! This is by far the best adaption of the Spider-Man comics so far. Tom Holland was beautifully cast as Peter Parker, I honestly could not think of a better actor to play him. If I am honest I really enjoyed "The Amazing Spider-Man", they were good films, but sadly they weren't linked in with "The Avengers" and "Captain America", this one ties in very nicely behind "Captain America: Civil War", we see a very different side to Peter Parker in this film. Tom Holland really brings out this cartoon like quality to his character, there are moments in the movie where it almost looks like you are watching a cartoon, which when a movie is based on a comic is top notch! It's fantastic.
Months have passed since the events of "Captain America: Civil War" took place, Peter Parker is now desperately trying to balance his life and balance saving the streets of Manhattan! Tom Holland is honestly just magnificent through out the whole of this movie. He's immersed himself so deep into the role of Peter Parker, that you wanna believe his character is genuinely real. I am really looking forward to seeing where his character goes in the future! Marvel movies are going to get very interesting from here on wards! The incredible Michael Keaton plays Adrian Thomas/Vulture. His character is very interesting and has a very interesting twist! Not is all as it seems with his character. Keaton delivers a perfect performance.
I'd honestly tell people to start with "Spider-Man: Homecoming" if they wanna see a "Spider-Man" film. The character of Peter Parker is explained brilliantly. I love that his character is this innocent teenager that is obsessed with making Lego death stars with his best friend Ned. He can't seem to get the girl, everyone thinks he's a looser. Then at night, he turns into this incredible Superhero. Tom Holland manages to balance comedic timing and drama perfectly. I love the friendship that he shares with his best friend Ned, it brings his character down to earth. Only Peter knows he's a superhero, an Avenger!
At 2hrs and 13 minutes, this film never gets too long! This is one of the very few Marvel movies to not bore me at all through out the course of the film. The action sequences are so fantastically, coherently shot, that Director Jon Watts doesn't even give you a chance to get bored! The storyline is captivating, you just wanna know what happens next? What has the next Marvel film set up for it's audience? The sequences between Peter Parker and Vulture are brilliant, the only thing that I would say was slightly irritating was the fact that Vulture reminded me far too much of Falcon and I didn't like how Director John Watts chose to use a character titled Flash in the film. There's no reference whatsoever. I just don't think it worked, considering that named belongs so much to that of DC!
Everything about this movie looks stunning, right down to the special effects! The cinematography by Salvatore Totino is incredible! Peter Parker's Spider-Man costume is fantastic, I love that a few adjustments have been made and we're introduced to Karen, she's awesome and she's makes for a fantastic scene involving Peter Parker. This film really is action packed from beginning to end, I can't stop raving about it. I was so pleasantly surprised! I really warmed to Tom Holland as an actor, he really does make a great Spider-Man. He's charismatic and charming! The friendship that he shares with Tony Stark is wonderful! I can't wait to see where the next Marvel film takes us! This really is the best Marvel movie to date!
5/5 stars
Director: John Watts
Release Date: 2017
Running Time: 2hrs 13 minutes
Genre: Action
Rating: PG-13
Format: Theatrical Cinema Release
Synopsis:
Months have passed since the events that took place in "Captain America: Civil War", Peter Parker and his mentor Iron Man try to balance his life as an ordinary teenager in Queens, New York and fighting crime as his ulter-ego superhero Spiderman!
One of the most anticipated movies of the Summer, is finally here! Spider-Man: Homecoming! This is by far the best adaption of the Spider-Man comics so far. Tom Holland was beautifully cast as Peter Parker, I honestly could not think of a better actor to play him. If I am honest I really enjoyed "The Amazing Spider-Man", they were good films, but sadly they weren't linked in with "The Avengers" and "Captain America", this one ties in very nicely behind "Captain America: Civil War", we see a very different side to Peter Parker in this film. Tom Holland really brings out this cartoon like quality to his character, there are moments in the movie where it almost looks like you are watching a cartoon, which when a movie is based on a comic is top notch! It's fantastic.
Months have passed since the events of "Captain America: Civil War" took place, Peter Parker is now desperately trying to balance his life and balance saving the streets of Manhattan! Tom Holland is honestly just magnificent through out the whole of this movie. He's immersed himself so deep into the role of Peter Parker, that you wanna believe his character is genuinely real. I am really looking forward to seeing where his character goes in the future! Marvel movies are going to get very interesting from here on wards! The incredible Michael Keaton plays Adrian Thomas/Vulture. His character is very interesting and has a very interesting twist! Not is all as it seems with his character. Keaton delivers a perfect performance.
I'd honestly tell people to start with "Spider-Man: Homecoming" if they wanna see a "Spider-Man" film. The character of Peter Parker is explained brilliantly. I love that his character is this innocent teenager that is obsessed with making Lego death stars with his best friend Ned. He can't seem to get the girl, everyone thinks he's a looser. Then at night, he turns into this incredible Superhero. Tom Holland manages to balance comedic timing and drama perfectly. I love the friendship that he shares with his best friend Ned, it brings his character down to earth. Only Peter knows he's a superhero, an Avenger!
Everything about this movie looks stunning, right down to the special effects! The cinematography by Salvatore Totino is incredible! Peter Parker's Spider-Man costume is fantastic, I love that a few adjustments have been made and we're introduced to Karen, she's awesome and she's makes for a fantastic scene involving Peter Parker. This film really is action packed from beginning to end, I can't stop raving about it. I was so pleasantly surprised! I really warmed to Tom Holland as an actor, he really does make a great Spider-Man. He's charismatic and charming! The friendship that he shares with Tony Stark is wonderful! I can't wait to see where the next Marvel film takes us! This really is the best Marvel movie to date!
5/5 stars
Wednesday 5 July 2017
Indiana Jones: The Last Crusade
Cast: Harrison Ford, Sean Connery, Denholm Elliot, Alison Doody, John Rhys-Davies and Julian Glover.
Director: Steven Spielberg
Release Date: 1989
Running Time: 2hrs 7 minutes
Genre: Action/Adventure
Rating: PG-13
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
Dr Henry Jones Sr suddenly goes missing while pursuing the Holy Grail, his son archaeologist Indiana Jones must follow in his father's footsteps to stop the Nazis from getting their hands on the Grail first.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade! If you've ever wondered where Indiana got his whip, his fear of snakes and his famous hat from, you'll have it explained in this film. Indiana's backstory explains so much! You really get an understanding for his character his behavior and his incredible love for archaeology. Art collector, Walter Donavon (Glover), reaches out to Indiana Jones when they find his father has gone missing whilst searching for the Holy Grail. The grail is much harder to find then they first expected. Before long, Indiana and his father Henry Sr, find themselves in more trouble then they could ever have imagined! I can not think of two better actors to portray father and son then Harrison Ford and Sean Connery!
The chemistry between Harrison Ford and Sean Connery is excellent. Sean Connery delivers one of his best performances. His characterisation is terrific. He manages to deliver the perfect balance of drama and humour. The resemblance in terms of characterisation between Indiana and himself is amazing! Their relationship is so genuine. Harrison Ford, keeps getting better and better in his role as Indiana Jones. The more we see of his character, the more Ford immerses himself into his role. I think we also get to see a different side of Indiana in this movie, a sensitive side to him, he has to behave around his father, the late River Phoenix was excellent in portraying Indiana as a teenager. When you compare the two, it's remarkably uncanny, in terms of their characterisation. When portrayed by two different actors, its pretty impressive.
The storyline resembles that of the first one, "The Temple of Doom" was very dark in comparison. Very much like the first, George Lucas and screenwriter Jeffrey Bohem were very clever to not force religion down our throat. It has just the right amount to make the storyline mysterious and interesting. The action sequences are amazing! If you're looking for a non-stop action movie, then this is it! Although "The Temple of Doom" is my favourite in the series, this is by far the best one! It's certainly a close runner up. It really is an adventure from beginning to end.
Visually it's very similiar to "Raiders of the Lost Ark", the cinematography and the lighting and very similiar. The action is fantastically coherently shot. Harrison Ford and Sean Connery always look amazing in frame, with Director Spielberg choosing to film close ups of them frequently. The set design is incredible, it's imaginative and exciting and works so well with the storyline. I love all of the little twists and turns that the movie takes, one minute they are in Venice, then they are in Germany and finally in Petra, Jordan to find the Holy Grail. It's fantastically adventurous. It's honestly everything you'd expect from an Indiana Jones film. The special effects are very clever and look great! The stunt sequences are smashing, what's most impressive is that Harrison Ford reportedly did most of his own stunts.
Perfectly well paced and brilliantly edited, John William's incredible score just adds to the magic of the film! John's fabulous score really adds to the mood of the film, it's dramatic and very exciting and works well with each scene that is in. The music ques are timed excellently alongside the action sequences. I can watch this film countless times and everytime it's just as good as the first. The best in the series, definitely worth a watch for any die hard adventure fan!
5/5 stars
Director: Steven Spielberg
Release Date: 1989
Running Time: 2hrs 7 minutes
Genre: Action/Adventure
Rating: PG-13
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
Dr Henry Jones Sr suddenly goes missing while pursuing the Holy Grail, his son archaeologist Indiana Jones must follow in his father's footsteps to stop the Nazis from getting their hands on the Grail first.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade! If you've ever wondered where Indiana got his whip, his fear of snakes and his famous hat from, you'll have it explained in this film. Indiana's backstory explains so much! You really get an understanding for his character his behavior and his incredible love for archaeology. Art collector, Walter Donavon (Glover), reaches out to Indiana Jones when they find his father has gone missing whilst searching for the Holy Grail. The grail is much harder to find then they first expected. Before long, Indiana and his father Henry Sr, find themselves in more trouble then they could ever have imagined! I can not think of two better actors to portray father and son then Harrison Ford and Sean Connery!
The chemistry between Harrison Ford and Sean Connery is excellent. Sean Connery delivers one of his best performances. His characterisation is terrific. He manages to deliver the perfect balance of drama and humour. The resemblance in terms of characterisation between Indiana and himself is amazing! Their relationship is so genuine. Harrison Ford, keeps getting better and better in his role as Indiana Jones. The more we see of his character, the more Ford immerses himself into his role. I think we also get to see a different side of Indiana in this movie, a sensitive side to him, he has to behave around his father, the late River Phoenix was excellent in portraying Indiana as a teenager. When you compare the two, it's remarkably uncanny, in terms of their characterisation. When portrayed by two different actors, its pretty impressive.
The storyline resembles that of the first one, "The Temple of Doom" was very dark in comparison. Very much like the first, George Lucas and screenwriter Jeffrey Bohem were very clever to not force religion down our throat. It has just the right amount to make the storyline mysterious and interesting. The action sequences are amazing! If you're looking for a non-stop action movie, then this is it! Although "The Temple of Doom" is my favourite in the series, this is by far the best one! It's certainly a close runner up. It really is an adventure from beginning to end.
Perfectly well paced and brilliantly edited, John William's incredible score just adds to the magic of the film! John's fabulous score really adds to the mood of the film, it's dramatic and very exciting and works well with each scene that is in. The music ques are timed excellently alongside the action sequences. I can watch this film countless times and everytime it's just as good as the first. The best in the series, definitely worth a watch for any die hard adventure fan!
5/5 stars
Tuesday 4 July 2017
Indiana Jones: The Temple of Doom
Cast: Harrison Ford, Kate Capshaw and Jonathon Ke Quan.
Director: Steven Spielberg
Release Date: 1984
Running Time: 1hr 58 minutes
Genre: Action/Adventure
Rating: PG
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
Indiana Jones finds himself in India, this time to help a desperate village find a mystical stone. Jones agrees and stumbles across a secrete cult plotting a terrible plan, in the depths of an ancient palace.
Indiana Jones and The Temple of Doom! Director Steven Spielberg states that this is actually a prequel to "Raiders of the Lost Ark" being set a year before he goes searching for the Ark of the Covenant. Set in 1935, Indiana Jones is on his next quest this time he teams up with nightclub singer Willie Scott (Kate Capshaw), and twelve year old pick pocket Short-Round (Ke Quan), after their plane suddenly crashes they find themselves in an a small Indian village, where the village people believe that evil spirits have taken their children away, after a sacred special stone was taken. Indie, Willie and Short-Round also find themselves in a booby-trapped tomb, where Thugeee is trying to rise again, once more, believing that with the power of the stones, they can rule the world!
Personally, I found this to be the most adventurous out of the series. I really love that it has a darker tone compared to the other three. We see a very different side to Indiana Jones, we learn that he brought Short-Round into his life after he caught him trying to pick his pocket. (don't worry folks, no spoilers) both his parents were killed in the Japanese bombings. Indie really takes him under his wing and it really shows on screen. The chemistry between the two of them is great! Willie Scott is a very interesting character, naturally she teams up with Indiana Jones after the club she was singing at is attacked and boards the plane with him, in the hope that it will take them both to Deli! This is where everything changes and they find themselves in India.
The chemistry between Harrison Ford and Kate Capshaw starts off pretty rocky, for the best part of the film, he finds her to be a pain in the ass! Is Willie his love interest? Essentially? Their relationship through out this movie is so up and down, you just don't know. Indie always get the girl though doesn't he? Harrison Ford as ever delivers a fantastic performance, this is the only film, where you don't really see the Professor side to him, he is all out archaeologist in this movie. He's so enthusiastic, he really cares about the people in the village and wants to find out what happened to the stones. His character is very adventurous, you just want to follow him along for the ride! Harrison Ford makes a very convincing archaeologist I must say! Johnathan Qu Kuan is excellent as Short-Round, completely fearless his character adds a lot of humour to the film.
The storyline is really good, I love all of the little elements that screenwriters Willard Huyck and Gloria Katz added to the plot. It's darker, but it's far more adventurous, I love that you don't know what you're going to see lurking around the corner, are they going to make it out? Will Indiana Jones's trusty hat get left behind? It all just adds to the tone of the film perfectly. I love the mystery surrounding Mula Ram's character played brilliantly by Amrish Puri. Indiana Jones is notoriously famous for hating snakes, Willie Scott is notorious for hating bugs and the outdoors!
It's hard to believe this was movie was produced 33 years ago, even a DVD copy still looks incredible! Steven Spielberg has a way with his movies in making them look terrific, Indiana Jones is a series that never appears dated. Beautifully shot in Sri Lanka, although the storyline is set in India, they were unable to film there at the time. None the less it still looks very convincing and works well with the production design. The palace looks fantastically genuine and accurate. The opening scene set in Macau, China is magnificent, it makes you wonder what he was doing there in the first place? I always feel like there are missing parts of these films that we never get to see. At the end of the day though, that's what makes the movie so enjoyable. There's a real sense of mystery and wonderment.
Can I just say how genuinely terrifying the score is by John Williams, it's not a score you would normally expect from the fantastic composer however it works fantastically. If it were not for his score, certain scenes would not had the same effect. It's frightening, exciting and uplifting, a good score should always be able to tell a story! Although all of the Indiana Jones movies are excellent, this is my favourite and one I'd definitely recommend to people. Despite being a prequel, you could easily view this after watching "Raiders of the Lost Ark", let's face it, most of us have been doing it in that order all this time! Oozing with excitement, a must watch!
5/5 stars
Contact: djtamaramarie@yahoo.co.uk
Director: Steven Spielberg
Release Date: 1984
Running Time: 1hr 58 minutes
Genre: Action/Adventure
Rating: PG
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
Indiana Jones finds himself in India, this time to help a desperate village find a mystical stone. Jones agrees and stumbles across a secrete cult plotting a terrible plan, in the depths of an ancient palace.
Indiana Jones and The Temple of Doom! Director Steven Spielberg states that this is actually a prequel to "Raiders of the Lost Ark" being set a year before he goes searching for the Ark of the Covenant. Set in 1935, Indiana Jones is on his next quest this time he teams up with nightclub singer Willie Scott (Kate Capshaw), and twelve year old pick pocket Short-Round (Ke Quan), after their plane suddenly crashes they find themselves in an a small Indian village, where the village people believe that evil spirits have taken their children away, after a sacred special stone was taken. Indie, Willie and Short-Round also find themselves in a booby-trapped tomb, where Thugeee is trying to rise again, once more, believing that with the power of the stones, they can rule the world!
Personally, I found this to be the most adventurous out of the series. I really love that it has a darker tone compared to the other three. We see a very different side to Indiana Jones, we learn that he brought Short-Round into his life after he caught him trying to pick his pocket. (don't worry folks, no spoilers) both his parents were killed in the Japanese bombings. Indie really takes him under his wing and it really shows on screen. The chemistry between the two of them is great! Willie Scott is a very interesting character, naturally she teams up with Indiana Jones after the club she was singing at is attacked and boards the plane with him, in the hope that it will take them both to Deli! This is where everything changes and they find themselves in India.
The chemistry between Harrison Ford and Kate Capshaw starts off pretty rocky, for the best part of the film, he finds her to be a pain in the ass! Is Willie his love interest? Essentially? Their relationship through out this movie is so up and down, you just don't know. Indie always get the girl though doesn't he? Harrison Ford as ever delivers a fantastic performance, this is the only film, where you don't really see the Professor side to him, he is all out archaeologist in this movie. He's so enthusiastic, he really cares about the people in the village and wants to find out what happened to the stones. His character is very adventurous, you just want to follow him along for the ride! Harrison Ford makes a very convincing archaeologist I must say! Johnathan Qu Kuan is excellent as Short-Round, completely fearless his character adds a lot of humour to the film.
The storyline is really good, I love all of the little elements that screenwriters Willard Huyck and Gloria Katz added to the plot. It's darker, but it's far more adventurous, I love that you don't know what you're going to see lurking around the corner, are they going to make it out? Will Indiana Jones's trusty hat get left behind? It all just adds to the tone of the film perfectly. I love the mystery surrounding Mula Ram's character played brilliantly by Amrish Puri. Indiana Jones is notoriously famous for hating snakes, Willie Scott is notorious for hating bugs and the outdoors!
It's hard to believe this was movie was produced 33 years ago, even a DVD copy still looks incredible! Steven Spielberg has a way with his movies in making them look terrific, Indiana Jones is a series that never appears dated. Beautifully shot in Sri Lanka, although the storyline is set in India, they were unable to film there at the time. None the less it still looks very convincing and works well with the production design. The palace looks fantastically genuine and accurate. The opening scene set in Macau, China is magnificent, it makes you wonder what he was doing there in the first place? I always feel like there are missing parts of these films that we never get to see. At the end of the day though, that's what makes the movie so enjoyable. There's a real sense of mystery and wonderment.
Can I just say how genuinely terrifying the score is by John Williams, it's not a score you would normally expect from the fantastic composer however it works fantastically. If it were not for his score, certain scenes would not had the same effect. It's frightening, exciting and uplifting, a good score should always be able to tell a story! Although all of the Indiana Jones movies are excellent, this is my favourite and one I'd definitely recommend to people. Despite being a prequel, you could easily view this after watching "Raiders of the Lost Ark", let's face it, most of us have been doing it in that order all this time! Oozing with excitement, a must watch!
5/5 stars
Contact: djtamaramarie@yahoo.co.uk
Monday 3 July 2017
Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark
Cast: Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Paul Freeman, John Rhys-Davies, Anthony Higgins and Denholm Elliot.
Director: Steven Spielberg
Release Date: 1981
Running Time: 1hr 55 minutes
Genre: Action
Rating: PG
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
Indiana Jones, archaeologist and adventurer, is hired by the US Government to find the Ark of the Covenant before the German's do.
Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark! Set in 1936. Archaeology professor Indiana Jones is in the jungles of South America searching for a mysterious golden statue. Accidentally setting off traps, and entering a world of creepy crawlies, he manages to make it out alive. After returning back to America, Jones hears from museum creator Marcus Brody about a biblical artifact the Ark of the Covenant, the US Government want to make sure he gets his hands on it before the Nazis do! Searching across Nepal and Egypt, he must find the hidden artifact. The adventure that unfolds around him is deadly exciting! A little bit of romance is thrown in for good measure too! Who would of thought archaeology could be so dangerous ah? I sure hope my brother-in law knows what he's letting himself in for! Moving on....Director Steven Spielberg delivers one of the most famous action movies of the early eighties.
Although most will refer to this as an action movie, it really is an adventure film! Harrison Ford is fabulous as raving adventurer and famous archaeologist Indiana Jones. Ford has truly immersed himself into the role of Indiana. A ladies man at heart, Harrison has just the right persona for the role. Fantastically enthusiastic, Ford's performance is excellent. Of course Indiana never goes on an adventure on his own, in Nepal he teams up with bar owner Marion Ravenwood, after finding she has an important artifact he's after in helping him find the covenant. Karen Allen is brilliant as Marion, the chemistry on screen between them both is tremendous. Of course, no good adventure would be complete without a bad guy! Major Arnold Toht (Lacey), is also after the covenant, a vicious man, always dressed in black, even in the hottest of weathers! Karma certainly has a nice way of keeping up with him though! His character is very interesting. Ronald Lacey's performance is wonderful!
Magnificently directed by Steven Spielberg and beautifully written by George Lucas, the storyline never bores it's audience. Exciting and intriguing from the very beginning. The action sequences are exquisite. The storyline has the perfect balance of action and comedy, with the use of an incredible score by fantastic composer John Williams, it makes for some pretty memorable scenes. What's remarkable is that George Lucas manages to discuss religion in his story without forcing it down his audience's throat. Religious or not, the storyline is very interesting. I love that you generally don't know what's going to happen, until it actually happens! The trailer is a dead giver away unfortunately, however even then it's only snippets of what's to come!
Director Steven Spielberg really knows how to make a movie look good! This film is first rate. Stunning moments of cinematography by Director of Photography Douglas Slocombe, who also worked on "The Italian Job" and James Bond's "Never say, never again", the film barely looks a year old! At 36 years, it looks incredible! 36 years, can you believe that? Why does Indiana Jones have a fear of snakes you say? You may just have to watch the other two films, to have that question answered. Unfortunately for Jones he stumbles across them a few times through out the course of the movie. I really love the authenticity, the setting matches the storyline perfectly. Shot in Tunisia, California and France, the setting looks surprisingly convincing! John Williams exciting score works fantastically alongside the storyline and the setting. A very nice looking movie! Exciting and thrilling, Raiders of the Lost Ark is film you don't wanna miss!
5/5 stars
Contact: djtamaramarie@yahoo.co.uk
Director: Steven Spielberg
Release Date: 1981
Running Time: 1hr 55 minutes
Genre: Action
Rating: PG
Format: DVD
Synopsis:
Indiana Jones, archaeologist and adventurer, is hired by the US Government to find the Ark of the Covenant before the German's do.
Although most will refer to this as an action movie, it really is an adventure film! Harrison Ford is fabulous as raving adventurer and famous archaeologist Indiana Jones. Ford has truly immersed himself into the role of Indiana. A ladies man at heart, Harrison has just the right persona for the role. Fantastically enthusiastic, Ford's performance is excellent. Of course Indiana never goes on an adventure on his own, in Nepal he teams up with bar owner Marion Ravenwood, after finding she has an important artifact he's after in helping him find the covenant. Karen Allen is brilliant as Marion, the chemistry on screen between them both is tremendous. Of course, no good adventure would be complete without a bad guy! Major Arnold Toht (Lacey), is also after the covenant, a vicious man, always dressed in black, even in the hottest of weathers! Karma certainly has a nice way of keeping up with him though! His character is very interesting. Ronald Lacey's performance is wonderful!
Magnificently directed by Steven Spielberg and beautifully written by George Lucas, the storyline never bores it's audience. Exciting and intriguing from the very beginning. The action sequences are exquisite. The storyline has the perfect balance of action and comedy, with the use of an incredible score by fantastic composer John Williams, it makes for some pretty memorable scenes. What's remarkable is that George Lucas manages to discuss religion in his story without forcing it down his audience's throat. Religious or not, the storyline is very interesting. I love that you generally don't know what's going to happen, until it actually happens! The trailer is a dead giver away unfortunately, however even then it's only snippets of what's to come!
5/5 stars
Contact: djtamaramarie@yahoo.co.uk
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