bigmate

by Alexander

''If you find truth you have to pursue it!''

For generations, the people of the City of Ember have flourished in an amazing world of glittering lights. But Ember's once powerful generator is failing ... and the great lamps that illuminate the city are starting to flicker.

Saoirse Ronan: Lina Mayfleet

Well where to begin with City Of Ember, where to start. Was quite looking forward to the prospect of seeing this film after seeing tantalizing trailers that pummeled me into submission. Unfortunately the film City Of Ember results in a film that succeeds in said trailer but when it comes to the crunch and the material itself misses the mark by a wide degree.

It's main plot consisting on a child version, fantasy-styled Logan's Run that seems to be hard to take seriously when all the characters appear to be two dimensional and to a certain extent flimsy.
Director Gil Kenan focuses mainly on the story which seems to be the main flaw of Ember. It's drawn out, slow and some characters hardly any screen time or impact whatsoever. The also following fact that Tom Hanks also produced this doesn't help matters.

Performances I would say aren't too bad, or the other extreme too good.
Saoirse Ronan of Atonement glory, shows she can at least act once again and makes most of an impact when she uses her dazzling blue eyes.
Harry Treadaway as Doon Harrow also does well as the male young hero, who's put to use in the pipeworks area after he swaps with Saoirse.
Tim Robbins also plays Loris Harrow, his father who previously tried to escape Ember but he's hardly given any screen-time, although he's part of the ending which has convenient written all over it.
Bill Murray surprisingly plays the villain of the piece as the Mayor who's literally a greedy pig of a man interested in providing for himself and not the City's needs.

City Of Ember starts off with a group of old architect people deciding to make an underground city, putting some daft secrets in a box, handing them down through a leader or Mayor every generation for a period of 200 years. We are given various questions but never answers to counter certain issues why they couldn't make a city that lasted longer or one where you could get out of it easily at the end of the designated time. When we finally get onto the futuristic old styled City we are given a fantasy setting laced with a modern complied feel, we get strange creatures and insects that are so huge but why? Why are they so big and not the people? Why can people grow food and vegetables underground without sunlight? Why do they have to have random jobs when some of them may not be suitable for their selected job? City Of Ember raises so many questions and has so many gaping holes in the story and plot I find myself torn between simply enjoying proceedings, questioning them or pondering at the lack of originality and imaginations in it's material.

The first half of City Of Ember does explain the general routines and goings on of the City and I do admit it was quite nice to see how the inhabitants receive their occupations and the general roles they play.
It's a weird concoction but City Of Ember has it's moments, just more Tim Robbins might have done the trick or more focus on what actually happens when the protagonists actually resolve the escape situation and proceed in saving the others. A computer game called Abe's Oddysee also seemed to remind me of this ballad, the whole escape scenario.
I did love a huge Moth creature on the film which made me have a sudden lapse and peeked my interest, definitely has it's spark at certain conjectures.

City Of Ember, let's face it is for the children, although some parts with a giant mutant mole rat thing aren't for them, but overall it's a tale that's best watched if you have no questions to ask about the crazy proceedings. The fact there was hardly anyone in the cinema and the length seemed to show that Ember isn't as hot as I thought it would be. Definitely more interested in kissing my girlfriend, and having her back home for the weekend, which seemed to be the highlight of seeing this film above all things.
I'd recommend if you're interested in fantasy/Sci-fi/Children's films, otherwise don't bother.

by Cris

Not John Carpenter's best film however it has to be one of his most visually interesting and action packed.

by Alexander

''It's not just another kiss...''

Broke and alone on New Year's Eve, Wilson just wants to spend the rest of a very bad year in bed. But, when his best friend convinces him to post a personal ad, he meets a woman bent on finding the right guy to be with at midnight.

Scoot McNairy: Wilson

Sara Simmonds: Vivian

Told in a lush black and white, Indie flick Midnight Kiss results in one of the sleeper hits of 2008. Directed by Alex Holdridge he hits home with the fact that this is not some fantastic tale of epic proportions, but one thats firmly rooted into the entanglement of gritty, hard pressed life. It doesn't lie, it has no need, it's telling us a story of a man who's just had a terrible year and he's had enough. So it's time for a clean break, a fresh start...easier said than done.

Main character Wilson, wonderfully played by Scoot McNairy shows us a main guy who's a tiny bit on the weird side. Strangely Wilson is first caught wanking over his mates girlfriend from an image he creates on photoshop, Midnight Kiss is a weird film, an indie film, and I loved it. Even better the film gets weirder and wonderfully impressive in its simplicity yet complexity.

''Please help us find whatever we are looking for tonight...''

We proceed in getting two unlucky people who come together thanks to a myspace profile ad.
Sara Simmonds as Vivian is the blind date Wilson ends up being with on New Years eve, and boy is she weird too, if you weren't afraid of Online Dating already then after this film you will be or hopefully you will be.

Midnight Kiss proceeds to inject the proceedings of the day for the characters. Not just the main ones but his mate Jacob(Brian McGuire) and Jacob's cheater girlfriend Min(Kathleen Luong).
We also see the relationship between Wilson and Vivian evolve over the day and their time together. Vivian will succeed in making some scoff at her apparent air pigheadedness or her hobby of taking pictures of shoes that happen to be single and abandoned, lost.

''Welcome to L.A, embrace the pain.''

Some could say Midnight Kiss is a sort of echo of Woody Allen's Manhatten. Sure they could be right too in alot of regards. It's got that Black and white feel there that is used in Manhatten but plus the fact it's focusing it's energies onto relationships in general. The big similarity the relationship between the main two.
Midnight Kiss however does give it's own unique blend of dilemmas and scenarios which you will find quite refreshing and original.

Midnight Kiss overall is a huge success if you're into Indie films. This one is another that shouldn't be missed, and as soon as you begin to watch you become sucked into this black and white world you're enthralled by.
Definitely true to life and most definably a life study of sorts.

''It's all the hope of romance culminating in just one moment...''

by Alexander

''You don't care about me, all you ever wanted was my sister!''

Based on Evelyn Waugh's 1945 classic British novel, Brideshead Revisited is a poignant story of forbidden love and the loss of innocence set in England prior to the Second World War.

Matthew Goode: Charles Ryder

Brideshead Revisited is another period drama offering, this time from Director Julian Jarrold. Having never watched or experienced the series I came into the film from the trailers with a heightened interest of wonderment.
Was expecting to be either really disappointed or really impressed. Thankfully with Brideshead Revisited it results in the latter of the two.

Wonderfully it begins where it ends and we experience this wonderful life of a certain man, Charles Ryder and his entanglement with the Flyte Family.
The times and era is displayed perfectively throughout the film and it provides bedazzlement and awe throughout.

''I want to look back and say that I didn't turn my back, that I was happy.''

There are some beautiful locations and costumes on offer in Brideshead, not to mention stunning locations which include Morocco and Venice. In fact the only thing that matches the quality of the scenery is the music and respective array of casting.

We have some fine performances on offer here.
Matthew Goode is Charles Ryder, and he's a handsome, artistic, talented young man who wants to become a painter. Goode's acting is a bold effort that succeeds in being both believable and effective. With more power comes the lust for more and this is conveyed wonderfully as the drama unfolds.
Hayley Atwell as Julia Flyte again shows a penchant for Period films since her recent Duchess days and shows us a new and intriguing period.
Ben Whishaw as Sebastian Flyte also shows he's got a knack for Period dramas, I loved him in Perfume and he was reasonably good in Layer Cake etc...
Whishaw single-handedly kills two birds in one stone, acting as a fresh character who's both homosexual and an alcoholic. A very impressive feat, yet he's not the biggest chain of the story just a vital part of it to begin with.
Other old hands like Emma Thompson & Michael Gambon give quality solid acting performances as you'd expect from these veterans of the screen.

''You banish me from your house, you poison my friendship with both your children...''

There's some nice twists and turns here on offer and some fine complex relationship triangles on display. Ryder's lust for more and what he wants inevitably always ends up backfiring thus leaving us enthralled by the nature of his ambitions and greed.
From an artists opinion there's alot of eye candy here that's equally jaw dropping. Ranging from statues, windows to mosaics and church implements that beg to be drawn and studied.

Overall, Brideshead Revisited is one of those films you may ask at the end of it what the point is, So I will ask that. What was the point? Well to me the point is this, and thats the wonderful journey and experience we the audience have just witnessed. It's a blessing to see such characters being brought to life, and it gives me an incentive to read Evelyn Waugh's 1945 Novel.

''What does Charles Ryder really want?''

by Alexander

''We're navigators, we're aviators, eatin' taters, masturbatin' alligators, bombardiers, we got no fears, won't shed no tears, we're pushin' the frontiers of transcendental perception.''

The music of the Beatles and the Vietnam War form the backdrop for the romance between an upper-class American girl and a poor Liverpudlian artist.

Evan Rachel Wood: Lucy

Jim Sturgess: Jude

''All you need is love,
All you need is love!
Love is all you need!''

The musical surreal wonder that is Across the Universe is truly a vision to behold. I don't think I've seen anything this artistic, visual, and musically vibrant in a long time. The Beatles songs used to knit the Movie together really give Across the Universe an edge and power that retains it's glow long after it finishes.
There's some jaw dropping sequences ranging from an underwater love scene of sorts, a stab at the army in another, and a bizarre Circus ordeal.

The imagery really does the film justice and the imagination at work here is limitless inspiration. This is a visionary piece of work which I've noticed has recieved mixed opinions on. People that didn't like it say it's musical film is hard to grasp or it's jumbled up, if the term boring old fart summarizes these people then I give it with all due respect. Across the Universe is not just a resolute tale of love but one of ideals, Wartime and its effects, friendships, sexuality, and the wonders of youth.

''Music's the only thing that makes sense anymore, man. Play it loud enough, it keeps the demons away.''

Performances really are a mixture of singing and acting, a mixture of talent and choreographed dancing and synchronized harmonic groups of extras.
Jim Sturgess and Evan Rachel Wood are simply amazing as the young lovers who become separated by the threads of fate.
Joe Anderson as Max Carrigan also does an amazing job at providing a detailed friend of Judes and a guy who has to go off to war in Vietnam.
Two really awesome people provide two of the weirdest yet funky characters within Across the Universe. The two in the light are Bono as Dr Robert & Eddie Izzard as Mr Kite. Their respective parts and scenes are surreal as well as deep coursing with subliminal messages and visual treats.

I could go on and on with characters, but will quickly mention a few others who were memorable and effective. T.V Carpio as Prudence was fascinating, as was Dana Fuchs as the singer Sadie. All the characters, not just the main two are studied and their equations, aspects and views on love are explored.

''I would lay in front of a tank if it would bring Max back and end this war.''

''Yeah, it wouldn't.''

So great music, a historical impact, and an alternative musical which results in an artistic concoction not just musically but visually.
Poor boy meets rich girl, it's an old story which never gets boring or less fascinating the more times it's done and Across the Universe even does it in a unique new way of its own.

Director Julie Taymor succeeds in making a hit from my vantage point. Also showing me that a few more female Directors may actually result in some better films being made, due to a level of detail and a different view that comes across resulting in a glorified masterpiece of sorts thats like watching a flower bloom in the first rays of dawn.

In conclusion, Across the Universe manages to capture the feel of the 1960s, succeeds in telling a love story, achieves a different mode of story telling that really should be tried and emulated more often. An artistic musical vision that I definitely will watch over and over, and a sure thing is I can be inspired by from the very word go.

''All you need is love.''

by Alexander

''I did a stupid, stupid thing. But it was only because I thought spoiling your day was better than ruining your life. Does that make any sense? ''

Five years after jilting his pregnant fiancée on their wedding day, out-of-shape Dennis decides to run a marathon to win her back.

Simon Pegg: Dennis Doyle

Director David Swhimmer emphasizes the fact that Run, Fat boy Run is a great British Comedy and proceeds to capitalize on all the factors that make a successful one. Granted it's got what counts in the laugh stakes, plot is a totally different spin for a change yet has that sparkle of main Hero, failing at the beginning. Said failure involving him leaving pregnant partner at the alter, then the movie progresses he has to redeem himself. Run, Fatboy, Run cleverly regurgitates a hit formula and hits a dazzling strike in the right direction.

Granted Run, Fatboy, Run isn't quite in the same league as Edgar Wright's Hot Fuzz & Shaun of the Dead but it's almost there. For a change Simon Pegg goes rogue working with a different blend of comedy writers, and he shows he still has what it takes.

''Go on then, run!''

''Isn't there some kind of like... special technique?''

''Well... yeah... you put one leg in front of the other over and over again really really fast.''

One of the great things about Run, Fatboy, Run is the comical performances and characters.
Thandie Newton as Elizabeth Olivia 'Libby' Odell shows a light and breezy woman, who seems to be picking some great English movies to be in, like RocknRolla recently. Her Elizabeth is sweet and motherly, kind and resolute, Thandie displays these qualities well.
Hank Azaria as Whit, the American new man in Elizabeth's life and a new rival for her affections, putting Dennis to the task of winning her back.
Dylan Moran as Gordon, reunites with Pegg after their collaboration performances on Shaun of the Dead. Their chemistry on screen as usual shines bright and theres even a comical fight scene between them accompanied by a Kaiser Chiefs song.
Harish Patel as Mr. Goshdashtidar is a priceless character too, who gives some funny lines and delivers laughs aplenty.
Even David Walliams pops up in the Bun Shop, giving some memories of Little Britain into the sketch.

''The only serious relationship I've been in ended in a broken collarbone and a dead meerkat.''

The soundtrack is absolutely addictive and the structuring of Run, Fatboy, Run's plot speeds along at a quick yet leisurely pace.
When we actually get to the Marathon Race we are having a ball of a time. The laughs keep coming in thick and thin, also supplying to an extent electric Drama and moderate acting. Run, Fatboy, Run succeeds in being a feel good comedic film thats not to be taken to seriously and just to be enjoyed, experienced and washed along with the flow.

''I can lose weight... but you'll always be an arsehole!''

In retrospective and in conclusion with such a colourful story line, Run, Fat Boy, relying on Pegg's reputation to pull in audiences and viewers. I suspect that many devotees may be occasional Comedy lovers who simply demand something light and relatively untaxing. Pegg has the natural ability to make a futile chase after stolen women's underwear funny. When he seems to be rubbing himself off against a shop mannequin it could be a pathetic or a blunt sketch in any other hands, but his wide-eyed bemusing expression and fast pacing move us from one joke to the next before we have time to analyse.
I love the British nature of this, the good guy and his basic life, it's not flashy or self indulged, or Hollywood-ised.
It's just a simple story with comedy stars doing silly things and making us laugh, a perfect equation that results in a positive result.

''Oh, yeah! Yes, I like it! Run, fatboy, run!''

by Craig

Directed by: Christopher Nolan.
Starring: Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckart, Michael Caine, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Gary Oldman, Morgan Freeman.

<< "You see, madness is like gravity, all it takes is a little...push" >>

The Dark Knight continues the legacy of Batman. Based a year after his encounter with Ra's Al Ghul and his thugs, the streets remain the same and Batman continues to do what he can with the help of newly appointed Commissioner, Jim Gordon and Gotham's new D.A, Harvey Dent. Before long a menacing madman called the Joker introduces something into Gotham that no one would have ever expected.

This is no doubt the hundredth review you have read on this film, massively hyped for years by fans and recently by the general public, reviews have been pouring in by the bucket load...my review is simply just a reminder, from both an obsessed fan and a general moviegoer, that this film is beyond anyone's expectations, especially mine and that it simply...is...outstanding.

Everything about the first film is simply raised in level here, both in quality, complexity and story; everything seems to be in a new direction, yet never forgetting what made Begins so great. Christopher Nolan has always been one of my favorite directors and he has simply proved it here by a mile. To many it might appear flashy that he has taken hold of the newest technology for the film with IMAX cameras etc and in the wrong hands it would have just been for show, but Nolan is god behind these cameras and the sweeping, epic scope is deftly handled and perfectly assured, the man is long overdue to be recognized more...and Wally Pfeister once again, dazzles with his thoughtful tone on this epic scale, it adds such a lovely feel.

The Nolan brother's screenplay is simply remarkable and again, 'beyond' everything I expected from the film. I was one of the men who knew the film was going to be more than just a Batman film, the footage I saw showed it, the dialogue rang true of it and as I am no doubt repeating in this review, it's more than you would ever expect. In Batman 89, the problem that fell on it was the fact that the storytelling was lax and extremely second-rate, while the Joker became a first rate character over Batman, who simply became third rate. Begins proved that Batman and Bruce Wayne can be powerful forces and complex humans and faces and TDK continues that power by delving that much deeper into the complexities of human emotions and morals. Morally complex from every angle, it's a perfect crime saga under the superhero cover. Each character is given special treatment and in one word, a 'soul'. Bruce Wayne must now face the facts of Rachael being with another man, especially the one appointed as the challenger to Batman's moral values on Gotham. Harvey Dent is seen as the 'White Knight' of Gotham, a man without a mask who is ridding the streets of Gotham of its criminals. Batman has to make that choice on where he stands in Gotham and where exactly his morals have taken him, especially when revenge, the one thing he has pushed himself away from doing, lingers so close. That there is the simplistic overview of the films elements, it delves so much deeper. The Joker is also never given a major origin story and thank god for that, because the direction of Nolan's vision didn't need it. He's unrelenting, mysterious much like Batman yet so self destructive and simply one hell of a scary, menacing clown that promises anarchy and chaos...and that he delivers.

I can't go on without mentioning something highly under-looked in films...the score. It is the first soundtrack I would have ever bothered to sit down and listen to throughout and for good reason. Its a rich force that blends beautifully with the complexities of the films morals and emotions, beautifully adding richness to every epic scene on screen, its up there as one of the greatest pieces of music I've heard that can add so much to the moving image.

You all knew I was getting to this...the performances. Christian Bale once again proves to be the greatest mix put on screen for these characters and has settled in nicely. As Bruce Wayne, he continues to show the charming and cheeky wit around the way he is seen in city, yet he remains so human, dark, and troubled and battles the strong emotions with others as we all do. Aaron Eckhart simply blew me away, especially when everyone is going in for Heath. He's perfect...there I said it and easily blows Tommy Lee off the face (no pun intended) of the earth. He's got the perfect charisma to play this all American man as D.A of a major city and really is a nice threat for Bruce in his personal life, because he is not only similar in statue as the force of Gotham, but he has won Rachael over, who no doubt sees him as Bruce without the mask...and when Harvey changes into who he is destined to become, Aaron is scary as hell and really is compelling and chilling. Maggie Gyllenhaal is a great replacement over the horribly sub-par Katie Holmes and is given much more to work with this time around and she blends in just well, showing an intimidating streak where need as her character should....AND of course Heath Ledger. What more can I say that no one has already said? Many still believe a posthumous Oscar win would be a sympathy vote; the truth is, if anyone said that, they deserve no audience. If the man was still alive today, he would wipe the supporting field for what is quite possibly the greatest villain to ever grace celluloid...and that will be argued. Equally unexpected and expecting, his performance as the Joker will stand for a lifetime. Sure Cesar and Jack will always have a face for Joker as the showman side of the character, but Heath is the dark side everyone knows from a 50+ year old character. Charismatic, dark, edgy and scary as all fucking hell, he breezes into every scene easily stealing it and delivering something so intense, so unexpected, yet so real. It?s a performance to be remembered by someone who died so suddenly and whether or not he wins the truly deserved Oscar, he's already in the hall of fame in my eyes.

The Dark Knight is a fucking masterpiece. This is, of course an 'opinion', because no one can stand as being right, it is up there as one of the greatest films I have ever seen and blew my obsessive and very high expectations right out of the water. Moral complex, beautifully captured, deftly controlled, greatly performed...all the elements I look for in a film, put to near perfection. I still can't say that the film is 'flawless' and I ain't going to nitpick at what those flaws are, but The Dark Knight comes so damn close...and being a film so deserving of everything it gets and a film of such exquisite quality and somehow managing to beat my insane expectations, it comes so daringly close for me...as perfect.

98/100

<< "You truly are incorruptible, aren't you? You won't kill me out of some misplaced sense of self-righteousness...and I won't kill you because your just too much fun. I think you and I are destined to do this forever." >>

by Craig

Directed by: Christopher Nolan.
Starring: Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Liam Neeson, Gary Oldman, Cillian Murphy, Morgan Freeman Katie Holmes.

<< "People need dramatic examples to shake them out of apathy and I can't do that as Bruce Wayne, as a man I'm flesh and blood I can be ignored I can be destroyed but as a symbol, as a symbol I can be incorruptible, I can be everlasting." >>

Batman Begins reboots the legendary comic book character we all know...Batman. Lost away in a Chinese prison, he meets a man, Henri Ducard, a dangerous ninja who works for Ra's Al Ghul, who mentors him to find out who he truly is, many years after his parents are murdered and when Gotham is falling to pieces.

I was never a very big fan of Batman. I mean sure, being a kid, I distinctly remember having some toys and as I got a little older, I watched all the previous Batman films (yes unfortunately, all). The main thing that drew me to this film I'd say, among the other things we were promised, was Christopher Nolan's name on it and his decision to create the origins for Batman, something that no doubt sounds intriguing but it can go horribly wrong...thankfully, it doesn't.

The movie is close to being a true masterpiece, by my opinion and is, as you all know, critically received...and for a damn good reason. Christopher Nolan has created a movie so respectable and so faithful to the title character and with such incredible depth, that it will please any 'film goer' or fan. In previous adaption's, mainly Burton's pieces, Batman came in like a ghost and we accepted the character because of his name, his 'mythology' as such...and the fact that with any comic book character and film, you can suspend your disbelief and enjoy the extraordinary world. Nolan has seem the human flaws of this character, rich in morals and with a stand on his beliefs and created a back story so fulfilling, setting him up in a much more realistic world makes it that much more.

The draft script was written by David S. Goyer and big credit to him for creating what is a great base story with the core ideas, but the script is very much full of Chris' sharp, intellectual writing based in reality and brilliantly developed characters. The flaw of Burton's Batman was the fact that aside from all the, shall we say, amazing spectacle, he was simple a third rate character. Nolan's is very much the Batman we all want to see. Questions on moral judgment seep through every scene, really asking a few of the many questions of life...'Who are we'...'What do we stand for', alongside the intricate study into the difference of justice and vengeance...and even the power of love. Now even with this great focus on our leading man, the plot never ceases to be strong and the dialogue never stays mature or serious for too long, with its nice touch of wit...and not to forget the additional developed character of the film which was lacking in previous films, Gotham itself.

Having said that, another key achievement of the film is the cinematography. Wally Pfister adds exactly what is needed for both character and story. Any vivid contrasts and colors are completely removed to be replaced with grungy, murky tones...which are just perfect. A dark, gritty and intense atmosphere, it adds tone to Bruce Wayne's consciousness and quite importantly, Gotham's depression, where the city is simply being eaten from the core up. The set design is superb; there's no eccentric fantasy based sets like in the first film, Gotham is finally made into a realistic and gritty world, pulled to an underworld.

Now I am blabbering about all the amazing technical features of the film without mentioning Christopher Nolan's direction, the man to lead it all. He has a brilliant assurance with his vision which is made only the more better that he co-wrote the script, he deftly balances character and spectacular with such grace. His action sequences are where the film falls just a little. The car chases and the like are not in question though, as they are brilliantly shot and certainly thrilling, but it's the shot setups for the fight sequences that are iffy and with too much quick cutting, it ruins it. I understand Nolan's own words state that he shot it that way to give the effect of 'the victims point of view', but any movie goer, no matter where they stand on film watching wants to see the fight in full frame, without the unnecessary, jumpy quick cutting, which is a shame when Lee Smith's editing elsewhere is superb.

The acting ensemble is amazing, with Christian Bale creating what I see as the very best Batman/Bruce Wayne ever put onto film, which is a hard title to take. He has a powerful essence on screen that is needed and his sheer commitment and great range he gives to both roles is everything that is needed for these fully developed characters. Michael Caine is the perfect Alfred, he is a true British bloke through and through and he adds the right charm, care and humor to his role. There are also some very fitting and strong performances from Liam Neeson, Cillian Murphy, Gary Oldman (genius) and a small role from Morgan Freeman...the only piece that doesn't fit is Katie Holmes, who delivers a relatively sub-par performance. Set for the role as an assistant DA, a character with powerful charisma and strong morals, Katie Holmes is a bad choice.

I think I've said all I can say about this film and no doubt I've missed something. Batman Begins is simply a near masterpiece. Christopher Nolan has created a world that was really needed for such a character, he has made a flawed superhero nearly flawless and kept full focus on not only Batman, but the dark veil that is Gotham, by making it realistic, gritty and another character in itself. Easily up there as one (with major competition) of the best comic book films ever made and the perfect direction for the remaining installments.

90/100.

<< "It's not who I am underneath, but what I do that defines me." >>

by Alexander

''That is what happens when you sit behind a desk. You forget things, like the weight in the hand of a gun that's loaded and one that's not.''

A former spy (Neeson) relies on his old skills to save his estranged daughter (Grace), who has been forced into the slave trade.

Liam Neeson: Bryan

Well what to say, where to start on the case that is Taken. Well having been looking forward to seeing it for an absolute age now, despite negative critics reviewing, plus the fact that my friends have rated Taken quite positively I was looking forward to experience. What we the audience got was a mixture of predictability, action and a half baked plot.

Taken starts of relatively slow, I was expecting action and points of interest sooner yet what I got was nothing exciting until the half way point. One thing that confused me was the character details and the unnecessary time spent at the beginning fleshing them out. I mean Taken is at one point trying to be a Drama then caught between an action film and a thriller. Not only this, it also emphasizes the fact that it's unoriginal, and sucks energy from a number of different franchises. Among these are the Bourne series, Max Payne, Hitman even the Metal Gear Solid series especially the 2nd one on the boat. Director Pierre Morel may fool any action junky into complacency yet it can't seem to pull the wool over my eyes.

''It's a flesh wound. But if you don't get me what I need, the last thing you'll see before I make your children orphans is the bullet I put between her eyes.''

You would think a film starring one of my favourite Actors, in this instance, Liam Neeson, would be a phenomenal piece given his previous choices. The answer is somewhere lost between the lines. On one side it's not his fault, his acting is fine, it's the flimsy material he has to work with. It all is a little convenient for my liking, him previously working for the government, having all this fancy equipment at his disposal that just happens to be there. Also it appears that all the bad guys he does face seem to have extremely bad aim, I mean they could actually make it a little less obvious within the film.
Maggie Grace as Kim is a wishy washy actress who doesn't even make a dent or impression on me. Shes a spoilt brat that irritates, and shes even worse than her blonde days on Lost. Which I might add I prefer...Just.
Famke Janssen as Lenore, is the ice cold ex-wife, and shes the second annoying thing about Taken. I mean how many films actually have done this routine of a stroppy conniving ex-partner? Tons I'd say. I'm not impressed.

''How about this? How about if I go along? You won't even know I'm there. I'm very good at being invisible.''

Some of the music in Taken was pretty good adding some impact accompanying to the stuff occurring in action scenes. Once the film actually gets going near the half way point you actually begin to take interest. I mean there were hundreds of sick funny moments on display to amuse and laugh at. Shocks, fisticuffs, shoot outs, high speed chases...you name it, they are here. But it seems to me and other including Kiri and Andre that it just all comes too late, because you're just getting into the rhythm then unjustly it stops and proceeds to give us this nicely wrapped up conclusion, thats a let down in polite terms.

Maybe I wanted to like Taken so much I put too much faith and positiveness into looking forward to it, maybe the trailers and posters sucked me in. Perhaps positive reviews from various people sparked up my interest. In all honesty I have to think people are easily impressed overall, which is good and bad. Taken could have been alot better, with a revamp of said script. Liam Neeson's Bryon ends up being as discreet as a nuclear warhead going off in someone's back garden.

''I don't know who you are. I don't know what you want. If you are looking for ransom, I can tell you I don't have money. But what I do have are a very particular set of skills; skills I have acquired over a very long career. Skills that make me a nightmare for people like you. If you let my daughter go now, that'll be the end of it. I will not look for you, I will not pursue you. But if you don't, I will look for you, I will find you, and I will kill you.''

by Alexander

''He not only gets inside me, he worms his way into my heart like a snake. Deeper. All the way in. I take him in like a slave. I play my part faithfully so I, too, can get to his heart...''

An espionage thriller set in WWII-era Shanghai, in which a young woman, Wang Jiazhi, gets swept up in a dangerous game of emotional intrigue with a powerful political figure, Mr. Yee.

Tony Leung Chiu Wai: Mr. Yee

Wei Tang: Wong Chia Chi / Mak Tai Tai

Ang Lee once again proves what a visionary Director he is, showing attention to detail in every shred of material examined. Lust, Caution is another offering from the masterful Lee which dazzles, entrance's, shocks and has you glued to the screen, every step of the way. To me it has similarities to the perfect German slice of Black Book, on the espionage and Period Drama stakes.

The cinematography, costumes and locations (which range from Shanghai to Hong Kong) ooze authenticity and luscious unrivaled quality. The amount of extras used really is breath taking and the feel of 1930s 1940s Occupied China is captured in every way. Ang Lee is clever in the way he can capture the feel of a particular era, whether it be Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon or Brokeback Mountain he always seems to master the environment and feel of the time. Lust, Caution he does it yet again, with spectacular results.

To kill the enemy, she would have to capture his heart....and break her own.

Moving onto performances, well the entire cast are on top form, not just the main characters either.
Tony Leung as Mr Yee is untouchable in his execution of his character. Previous films have confirmed his high level of acting yet Lust, Caution definitely again like 2046 cements the fact he's got a passion in his craft. Mr Yee is a faceted character, who's collaborating with the Japanese. At times you can sympathize with him, others you want to ring his neck. He's a typical man who we see a glimpse of weakness in his affections for Mak Tai Tai.
Wei Tang really steals the show with her performance as the leading lady. She's beautiful and sometimes without even the need for words, her eyes convey more language and soul than anything else. You begin to experience the journey by her side, with her as Lust, Caution progresses.

The sex Scenes aren't to me, that graphic. Obviously there's some scenes which may be classed as violent and aggressive, but the evolution of the act requires a variation. I love how Tai Tai becomes so caught up in her involvement with Yee she begins to develop feelings for him. The passionate love making is charged and heated, often depicting the emotional battle going on between the two as they wrestle with their respective consciences.

There was one occurrence of relatively violent proportions which was well shot. Reminded me of Julius Cesar dying for some reason. If you know the Scene I mean then tell me I'm not crazy, otherwise yes it's confirmed. Other than that theres not much examples of action and gore, which is good. It's not necessary.

Lust, Caution also emphasizes the ideologies and routines of the times. Also the merging of Japanese culture in China as they occupy the Country. Of course the Chinese being a proud people are divided in opinion against their over sea rivals. Ang Lee manages to make a point of this without having to make it too obvious, so while he gives us a stealthy heated love story he also cleverly slips us a history lesson. All the things I've stated mixed into an equation spells a master stroke of greatness from the maestro of movie making.

With Lust, Caution Ang Lee's piece will have you loving the music, the period and may even compel you to do more research of the times back then. Cleverly Lee also leaves an after taste in your mind, of History repeating itself and a poignant reflection of what it is to love and be someone else.

by Bill

Very fun, very entertaining and not a dissapointment. It was put together nicely on how everything came about and how they planned it all. Still, 2001 still came to mind for some reason....lol

by Bill

Sure this has been done but the way this was filmed was very effective and creepy. Not a horror that relied on shock gore. But for more intense and creepy camera work.

by Bill

A decent thriller but I had it guessed from the second the killer did a typical move of distraction. You'll have to watch of course cauze I am not going to tell you but you'll know it when you see it.
Pacino does an ok job at this movie, although didn't seem fully into the role. All the supporting cast was great and Forsythe always plays a good agent.
Over all not a waste of time and nice to watch.

by Alexander

''Most people respect the badge. Everyone respects the gun.''

Two veteran New York City detectives work to identify the possible connection between a recent murder and a case they believe they solved years ago; is there a serial killer on the loose, and did they perhaps put the wrong person behind bars?

Robert De Niro: Turk

Al Pacino: Rooster

Two Cops. One Serial Killer. Which could be one of their own, a cop with a poetic streak.
Righteous Kill I was looking forward to seeing for a while . Featuring two legends, two respective seasoned Actors. Yes Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, who were good but I couldn't help but notice the aging. Sorry boys, but hey I sure wouldn't complain if they were both my grandads from both sides. Now boy there's a thought.

But anyway straying from the topic at hand. Righteous Kill begins a promising start with hotly paced creds and music to die for. We also get De Niro & Pacino popping some bullets at the shooting practice range, this had me hyped up for a start.
Righteous Kill proceeds to give us a plot that I wasn't expecting, one consisting of a cop who's a killer, who's taking the law into his own hands. The twist is that it's De Niro's Turk. But what concludes really bites the bullet and I won't spoil the proceedings my telling. It's a fascinating journey albeit a sometimes slow paced one. Granted there's some good male, female relationships between characters on show which ups factors in Righteous Kill.

''Nothing wrong with a little shooting, as long as the right people get shot.''

As well as the Two main attractions, the pairing of the Two Oldies, we have some fresh players in the form of Carla Gugino, Donnie Wahlberg, John Leguiezamo, Brian Denneley and smiley 50 Cent/Curtis Jackson giving an assorted cast.
Curtis manages to not do badly at acting, rather he smiles and stands around.
Carla Gugino shows a relationship that would be reminiscent of her dating grandad, her and De Niro cranks up the cringe factor.

''He's gonna kill again. You know it, and I know it.''

There wasn't as much action as anticipated, plus the plot wasn't what I expected. Righteous Kill's twist isn't easily guessed and the build up ends up being worth it mainly. The chemistry of Robert De Niro & Al Pacino is brilliant yet isn't as powerful as classic Heat but then again you cant replicate greatness they shared in that.

To conclude Righteous Kill doesn't offer anything relatively new but does deliver in giving a solid Cop study, action thriller of sorts.
Was also amazing to see on my Birthday, with friends Martin, Kiri and my sis Andre, aided by random commentary by me on certain parts. Amusing parts where we all laughed I liked alot also.
I would definitely watch again, with the added ability to fast forward areas. Director Jon Avnet aims for right between the eyes but manages to miss the mark by a tad. Overall Righteous Kill ends up being a righteous effort.

''You don't become a cop because you want to serve and protect. You join the force because they let you carry a gun and a badge. You do it because you get respect.''

by Alexander

''I love this game.''

Ex-con Jensen Ames is forced by the warden of a notorious prison to compete in our post-industrial world's most popular sport: a car race in which inmates must brutalize and kill one another on the road to victory.

Jason Statham: Jensen Ames

I wasn't sure what to expect with Death Race. On one side of the coin I was worried it may just be another vehicle action junkie driving film for Jason Statham, on the other I'd say from the trailer it looked like one hell of a rush with more action you can shake a massive stick at.
Death Race pleasingly falls into the latter and much to my surprise was very enjoyable and the time flies. For all it's seriousness it applies dark warped humour and injects proceedings with madness and action packed stunts.
This makes Fast and the Furious look like a paper bag, while Death Race pummels the shit out of bag with a heavy laden crowbar.

''Okay cocksucker. Fuck with me, and we'll see who shits on the sidewalk.''

The action packed Death Race offers us interesting characters within a prison complex, and a plot that has a simple premise. Drivers pitted against each other in a vehicle gladiatorial battle for freedom.
Old hand Actors such as Ian McShane, Jason Statham, Joan Allen, Tyrese Gibson, not to mention the ultra sexy Natalie Martinez, all of them and more spice up the heavy onslaught of action packed carnage that arises.

The action and effects will have fans of this genre drooling and baying for more. I couldn't refrain from bursting out laughing throughout. Definitely some high octane shit going down. Plot wise it's hardly original, story wise it's predictable, it's highly unrealistic in places but you're hardly going to care when you have cars flying in the air flaming and heavy weaponry ripping the shit out of anything that moves.

Director Paul W.S. Anderson has taken the inspiration of Death Race 2000 and spat out this crossbreeded show of Running Man proportions with some ace heavy artillery accompanied cars.
Saying all this, and I haven't even got onto the music and Soundtrack of Death Race which is awesome. It had me banging my head in accompanying rhythm, bloody fantastic variety to say the least.

''Don't talk to the other drivers. Frank never did. Part of the mystique. Let the mask do the work.''

In conclusion, Death Race does exactly what it sets out to achieve. Which to excite, to electrify and to dazzle. It's the kind of action movie that doesn't require any thinking but the simplicity of seating back and going with the flow per say. Plus Statham gets another car movie like Transporter under his belt. A sheer colossus of a scorcher that accelerates right up till the end.

''You wanted a monster? Well, you've got one.''

by Cris

Amazingly well shot and beautiful movie and also, a very lonely movie inside its own beauty.

by Oreo

Excelen adaptation of the book by Angeles Mastretta. It's the best mexican movie I've seen in quite a few months (last one being La Ley de Herodes, but that's a whole different movie). The movie didn't altered the original story, but kinda cut off many subplots. Daniel Gimenez Cacho gave a hell of an interpretation, and the whole ambientation and production is excellent.

by Alexander

''No dream is ever just a dream.''

A New York City doctor, who is married to an art curator, pushes himself on a harrowing and dangerous night-long odyssey of sexual and moral discovery after his wife admits that she once almost cheated on him.

Tom Cruise: Dr. William 'Bill' Harford

Stanley Kubrick's last film results in a mixed bag of surprises. On one hand it's drenched with sex and revelations, ending up being even slower than any of his [previous works. Yet on the other hand it holds imagination, secrets and forbidden relationships.

Kubrick has always given us the weird and sometimes visionary standards with his efforts. With Eyes Wide Shut it's apparent with all due respect that he was losing his edge and focus with the material present. Yet saying this, there is some beautiful imagery, haunting music if not sometimes annoying, and wonderful shots and cinematography.

''Don't you think one of the charms of marriage is that it makes deception a necessity for both parties? May I ask why a beautiful woman who could have any man in this room wants to be married?''

The film proceeds it's varied onslaught with frequent trips to the land of boredom yet redeems itself with some unusual scenes of interest. The masked party seems to me to be the main point of interest in Eyes Wide Shut where Kubrick uses mystery suspense and a feel of foreboding in the proceedings yet it's feeling seems to fade once said scene is over. We see Cruise spiral into torment and sometimes madness as he tries to unravel the mysteries concerning the event.

Scenarios presented involve unfaithfulness, desire and an obsession with lust and sex. Nicole Kidman plays the troubled wife quite well yet fails to make us care about her character who's subject to dreams and dark secrets of her own.

''You know what they say, once a doctor always a doctor.''

It's safe to say the film provokes more tantalizing questions than answers, yet we the audience get lost at a certain conjecture.
Granted Kubrick gets across his lustful if what perverted disposition, which shows a mind of unrivaled proportions but it's thew execution of Eyes Wide Shut I have to question.

When I reached the end conclusion I was bemused at the confusion and even more puzzled by an ending that doesn't really inspire, but more so, leaves an empty hollow feeling void of love and replaced by the prospect of sex that seems to glue us together.
I wondered if there were any similarities between Cruise & Nicole's actual relationship when they were dating to this effort. If there are then I can certainly understand why they broke up, besides the Scientology issue.
Going back to Eyes Wide Shut I must admit it was clever but in being so, it ends up divulging in too much confusing dialogue and runs around in limitless circles trying to be a thriller or a man's mid life crisis in a way.

Maybe Kubrick's last montage may have done better if he had edited and simplified this piece because let's face it, what we get is a troubled marriage, a masked party that turns into a warped orgy and a mystery that has a dull pop at its climax.
Yes Eyes Wide Shut may also be for you if you just want a feast for the eyeballs with naked bodies on display, unfortunately a plot that makes sense and does not confuse would be my preferable advertiser.

''I have seen one or two things in my life but never, never anything like this.''

by Linda

It is not Clooney's best work as a director but LEATHERHEADS still has some good elements. Of course, Clooney does not disappoint as a director. However, the story went from one story to another. The first half was enjoyable. Unfortunately the second half started to lose its way.

Overall, the film is okay but do not expect too much from this piece.