Emma's Talk

Låt den Rätte Komma In (Let the Right One in)

I'm sure my readers will appreciate that I rarely give a movie more than 3 stars, und this is only the 4th time in my blogging career that I have given 5 stars, so I'm sure that you will understand that this movie must be some great revolution in the history of movie making... in fact, I would venture to say it is very nearly the "perfect" movie...

It was with great anticipation that I went to view this movie, after reading that nearly every reputable movie magazine gave it a 5 star rating... I knew for certain that I was in for something amazing!

I had to travel a little way as my home cinema wasn't showing it, but it was well worth it, und I would recommend it to all of my readers, even if you aren't a fan of the Vampire genre!

***Synopsis***

Oskar, a bullied 12-year old, dreams of revenge. He falls in love with Eli, a peculiar girl. She can't stand the sun or food and to come into a room she needs to be invited. Eli gives Oskar the strength to hit back but when he realises that Eli needs to drink other people's blood to live he's faced with a choice. How much can love forgive? Låt den rätte komma in or Let The Right One In is a story both violent and highly romantic, set in the Stockholm suburb of Blackeberg in 1982.

Written by John Nordling, Producer

Starring: Kåre Hedebrant, and Lina Leandersson

Directed by: Tomas Alfredson

***Fantasy Take***

Excellent fantasy movie, yet not too weird as to alienate the average viewer...

***Storyline: 5 Stars***

Brilliant story, based in a perfect fairy-tale style, simple und easy to follow, yet leaving you as if you had had the most filling meal in your life!

***Graphics: 4 Stars***

Hey, it's not really that kind of movie, but for what it is, the graphics certainly do what's needed of them...

***Acting: 5 Stars***

Oh, just perfect actors! Especially the little girl (Eli), who was both sweet, but still quite freaky at times!

***Music: 4 Stars***

Excellent music, though I would have liked a catchy theme tune to hum on my way home...

***Emotions: 5 Stars***

Excellently emotional throughout, I was completely wrapped!

***Conclusion***

Well, in conclusion... It's basically perfect... need I say more?

Enjoy, nazdrovia

The Wizard Of Gore

Is it magic? Or wholesale slaughter?

See the woman cut in half with a chainsaw, see the woman drilled through the stomach with a giant punch press, see the metal spike driven through one gal's head and see the two ladies forced to swallow swords.



Blood, guts, and offbeat surrealism in another crackpot classick from "The Wizard of Gore" himself, director Herschell Gordon Lewis.

This movie has been on my Netflix queue for quite a while so I can safely say that I've wanted to see it since before Juno was out. This is the fourth Herschell Gordon Lewis film I've seen so far and only the second I've liked, the other was Two Thousand Maniacs. This, much like Two Thousand Maniacs, is a good movie. Not because it actually has substance and is well thought out, but because it is a lot of fun to watch and has become a cult classic.

Let's be honest for a minute here, when Herschell Gordon Lewis was directing films, he had no idea what he was doing. As a friend of mine said "he is the Ed Wood of gore films." I have to agree completely. The editing is always choppy and horrible, the music is poorly placed, the acting seems to be straight out of a junior high play, and nothing seems believable. This brings me to the gore. If HGL only got one thing right in his career, it was gore. The gore in this film is awesome and cheesy. He may have made bad films, but they sure are entertaining.

Sorry for going off on so many tangents, I'll get back to this movie. The story follows a TV reporter and her boyfriend who attend a magician's show of blood and dismemberment. They become suspicious of several deaths being linked to the show. It's a simple story but it is a lot of fun. I really like the magician theme. The bad acting factor definitely applies in this movie. I often wonder where HGL found these people. But as always, the gore is magnificent(no pun intended) and almost saves the movie. I had a lot fun with it.

See this movie if you're a fan of Herschell Gordon Lewis and you won't find much of anything new but it is a very good time. Go! Now!

Madeo (Mother)

Anklaget (Accused)

A teenage girl accuses her father of sexual abuse. Whatever the truth is, the consequences will be devastating. Top-class acting and an impressive script fuel this tense Danish drama.

The Long Night

The Long Night is a odd suspenseful and surrealistic 1947 movie starring Henry Fonda as WW2 veteran and orphan .He works in a factory on subsistent wages- one day he meets the love of his life (Barbara Del Geddes) - a fellow orphan and flower delivery girl.It is obvious they belong together- but the catch is- she already has a suitor.Magician and full time liar, Vincent Price is a total heel in this movie.The movie is told in flashback during a siege of Fonda's character - who shots Price in the first scene. Look for noir standout Elisha Cook,Jr. as the blind neighbor. This was a riveting movie where I was hoping for the best and expecting the worst the whole time.It is imperfect- Fonda is tough and jaded - until he gets around the girl of his dreams- then he becomes a puppy dog- I found it charming-but I could see it annoying some folks.If you are looking for an older movie with a unique feel and compelling story.

How to Steal a Million

What a Great and Fun movie. How can you not love Peter O'Toole's Blue eyes when he is startled by Audrey Hepburn descending the staircase with a gun in her hand?. They also had one of the best director's in cinematic history William Wyler, the man behind Ben Hur and The 10 Commandments. The story is practically seamless and the actor's - in my not so humble opinion - were of the most excellent caliber. Having seen many of the films Audrey Hepburn was in, I was surprised to find her performance in How To Steal A Million so comical. If she was going for a "break the mold" performance, I believe she succeeded. But she certainly has many of the most admirable qualities. Now, Peter O'Tool on the other hand I've seen almost all his Movies and he does a great Job and as he did in This one and other than to say, He is delightful in this film as he always is.

The Window

Bobby Driscoll, a child actor par excellence, lends a good deal of believability to this familiar and predictable plot concerning an imaginative youngster who can't get anyone to believe his tale about being the only witness to a murder. This "Boy Who Cried Wolf" in modern dress (from a story by Cornell Woolrich!) needed a stronger, perhaps multi-layered approach; it is far too straightforward and square, and the audience is always two steps ahead of the action. The adult characters are exasperating and foolish, though Driscoll's grounded presence is just what this scenario requires (he won a highly-deserved Juvenile Oscar for his work). Vivid black-and-white cinematography by Robert De Grasse and William Steiner also deserves praise, though the film isn't a noir. It's a family picture on a low-budget, aimed at the mass market. Overall results are decent, but certainly not superior.

Alice in Wonderland

This is one of those films that I could only sit through once. Charlotte Henry is fine -- in fact, all the actors were fine. The problem was in the script, the dialog, the direction, the editing, the sets and the special effects. Granted, this was 1933, but it really creaked. Part of the problem is that actors like Richard Arlen, Gary Cooper, W.C. Fields and Cary Grant are not recognizable (there faces cried for a recognition that was not forthcoming). The movie just clumped along with no cohesion. Much of Lewis Carrols spirit, humor and continuity are missing. What a pity! It's such a great book. I would recommend Disney's 1951 version.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas)

This film is AMAZING. Yes this account of the Holocaust seemed to be played by an all British cast (which isn't quite accurate lol) but it dosen't take away from the hard hitting emotional impact of seeing the events unfold through an innocent child's eyes. Where this film ultimately takes you in the end is emotionally GUT WRENCHING to say the least, but you won't soon forget its impact.

Tropic Thunder

They really need to give Tom Cruise's character his own spinoff.

Wanted

Holiday Inn

'Holiday Inn' is not really a Christmas film, but it is a film about all holidays and the film that made 'White Christmas' a best-selling and popular song. This film is about a couple of dance/singing partners who fight over the girls in their lives. Bing Crosby's character decides to move out of New York City to a farm, and he turns this into an inn where they sing songs and dance on every holiday in the year, from Christmas to President's Day to Valentine's Day. It's a musical with plenty of song and dance with Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, and it has a little bit of a love story in it too.

The highlight of this film is, of course, when Bing Crosby and the female lead sing 'White Christmas' in front of the piano and when the female lead then sings it herself at the end of the film, remembering these memories. This scene is done particularly well, but if you like musicals, then don't overlook this one. There is plenty of singing and dancing and a pretty good storyline to keep you interested. And, you must see the scenes where 'White Christmas' is sung.

Inglourious Basterds

Inglorious Basterds makes no apologies, asks for no forgiveness, it's a no holds barred assault on the senses. Tarantino doesn't care if he offends, if he steps all over stereotypes and clichés, this is film making at it purest. It's great to see a film maker whose work clearly isn't interfeared with by the powers that be. Tarantino is a master of effortlessly cranking up immense tension and suddenly mixing it with laugh out loud moments; you're not sure if you should be looking away in disgust or rolling around laughing, either way it's a roller coaster and one not to be missed! It's not for everyone and I'm unsure how Germans will take the film, certainly if you're not a fan of Tarantino's style, this may be a little hard to swallow, but never-the-less, it is a film which simply has to be seen. No self respecting film fan should miss this. And the performance of Christoph Waltz... Oscar don't you dare ignore him!!

District 9

Neil Blompkamp and the team have really delivered a great film here, in my opinion. One of the things I love is that it has obvious connections to other features with similar themes and settings -- notably the (soon-to-be-remade) '80s miniseries "V" and the excellent "Alien Nation" -- and yet it has a startlingly fresh and exciting approach all of its own.

Just about everything here appeals to me -- an intriguing story with powerful allegorical elements, and it's VERY political; it's skilfully told, with a good balance of action, drama and humour, excellent SFX (the aliens are terrific), strong performances and it's such a pleasure to see a film in this genre that doesn't regard all its viewers as uncritical clones of Comic Book Guy. It's quite gripping throughout and the final showdown between the hero and the security forces is tremendously exciting. The documentary style really works here and the hand-held camera work is for once a very effective tool, with Blomkamp very cleverly weaving us you in and out of the 'actuality' style.

The choice of setting is a brilliant touch in itself and it's good to hear Sarth Effrican accents right up front. It's terrific to see such an accomplished and thoughtful work coming from a country that was for a long time best known in films terms for the execrable 'The Gods Must Be Crazy'.

Unusually for a high-concept sci-fi flick, the plot elements are sparingly revealed, and many are left unexplained. It's also those rare movies with an ending wide open for a sequel ... but one that I'd really like to see. So many questions left deliciously unanswered ... what IS the story with the aliens? Why are they so seemingly so passive? Are they -- as it appears -- merely a degraded worker caste, or is there more to it than meets the eye? Will our hero be redeemed?

Sharlto Copley gives an amazing performance in the lead role and it's part of what sets this movie apart from prefabbed Hollywood dross like 'Aramgeddon' or '2012'. In the hands of Michael Mann or Roland Emmerich, the role would have gone to an obvious 'everyday hero' type like (urgh) Russell Crowe, but Copley fearlessly plays Wikus with such an amazingly convincing nebbish persona that it at first left me wondering whether the whole thing was heading for 'Scary Movie' territory. But fear not -- it rocks. I was blown away to discover that Copley was not a career actor and indeed had never acted until he appeared in the original short-film version. Incredible -- I predict big things for this guy.

I have no doubt that (at least in artistic terms) Blomkamp is going to be very glad indeed that he didn't end up directing Halo. This will undoubtedly come to be seen as one of the great sci-fi films of its time and I sincerely hope there is a sequel. A no-brainer for any serious sci-fi fan -- just go and see it.

Gilda

" I can never get a zipper to close. Maybe that stands for something, what do you think? "


Casino owner Ballin Mundson (George Macready) hires bum Johnny Farrell (Glenn Ford) to help run his casino because they share a total lack of scruples. However things become complicated when Mundson marries Gilda (Rita Hayworth)...

I didn't really like this but it does have a few interesting points. Macready and Ford's relationship has a strong gay subtext. For instance one of Ford's first lines to Macready is "You must lead a gay life". Also they're constantly looking at each other and smiling like they share some secret. And Macready does have a cane which shoots out a spike. When Macready brings Hayworth home Ford acts like a jilted lover. Whether on not it was written in there I don't know--but it's there.

That aside this is not a good movie. It's slow, confusing and far too long. It looks good but that can't help the plodding pace. Her insults to Ford are just dripping with venom. Unfortunately Ford and Macready are not too good. Macready plays his role way too low-key and Ford is very good-looking--but stiff and unlikable.

The Hurt Locker

"There's enough bang in there to blow us all to Jesus. If I'm gonna die, I want to die comfortable."


If you enjoy light entertainment or want something to uplift your spirits, then AVOID this movie. Disarming live unexploded bombs in combat situations is a dangerous, dirty and harrowing experience that calls for iron discipline, nerves of steel and a bravery that is practically limitless, a point that this movie successfully drives home.


The problem is that the main soldier assigned to do this risky job in the movie is a loose cannon, someone who is reckless, puts his unit at risk, doesn't follow orders and therefore is someone that the military would not want diffusing bombs. This does not mean that this movie is not good or compelling, because it does offer a riveting story, but it must be watched with the understanding that the military does not allow for mavericks who knowingly place their entire unit at risk, like the main character does in this movie. For instance, if a soldier deliberately cuts himself off from communication with his platoon leader, that soldier would soon hear about it, loud and clear. Also, the action is not placed within a larger context, that is, the action takes place in Iraq but that's about all the audience is told, which may cause one to wonder why soldiers are there in the first place.


This would be like watching the B-25s dropping their bombs in Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo without knowing why the the United States was at war with Japan or watching Saving Private Ryan without knowing why American soldiers were storming the beach at Normandy. Nevertheless the movie does effectively convey the harrowing and dangerous nature of war and should be shown to persons who are contemplating joining the military.

Male and Female

Delightful silent film about a shipwrecked British family and their servants, with a great cast; story based on James Matthew Barrie's classic play The Admirable Crichton. The class structure in Britain at the time is gently ridiculed throughout and therein lies the fun.
Special mention goes to Thomas Meighan's incredible performance as the butler Crichton who falls in love with the aristocratic daughter of Lord Loam, Lady Mary. Thomas was so manly, tall, muscular and handsome, completely fascinating to watch in this role, and every other role I have ever seen him in. No wonder he was so popular as a leading man in silents. As far as I am concerned he stole the show. You couldn't take your eyes off him. :)
Gloria Swanson brings a vulnerability to her role, which in the beginning is pretty unsympathetic. During their time on the island she grows the most emotionally, and one cannot help but feel sad for her at the end. Her character gets the fuzzy end of the lollipop, and the scullery maid Tweeny (pixie Lila Lee) gets the Grand Prize and moves to America to start a new life with Crichton.
One strange thing about this version: there was a crew of men on board the boat, but after the shipwreck they are not seen or heard from again. What happened to them? Only Lord Loam and his children and two servants survive, as far as we can determine. Yet we see this crew rowing away from the site of the wreck, two years go by, and they are never accounted for. Odd.
The musical score is pretty here but sounded a bit synthetic at times. I would have preferred a straight piano score, her piano moments were lovely.
I really enjoyed this silent film. But then I have read almost everything James Barrie has written, so it's not surprising I would love Male and Female, based on his play. I just wish at least one of the silent versions of his "The Little Minister" would have been great, especially the one with Betty Compson.

War Hunt

"There's A Fine Line Between Soldier ... And Killer."



War Hunt explores the possibility that a decorated and successful combat soldier can also be a dangerous psychotic killer.

The film is set during the last days of the Korean War. Endore (John Saxon) conducts voluntarily patrols to Chinese outposts, and is valued by his commanding officer. The other platoon members appreciate Endores courage and toughness under fire, and probably love the fact his solitary patrols keep them safe in their own lines. But Endore has his own personal motives for his nocturnal sojourns. He gets to kill people, and he probably enjoys it. As a matter of fact, he most likely is a serial killer. No doubt he is a social outcast in civilian life and would be even in the peacetime army. In any other environment, hed wind up in a prison or mental hospital. Luckily (for him) the Korean battlefront is his element.

John Saxon plays Endore to frightening perfection. Blank, emotionless facial expression. Psychotic stare, just a hint of malevolent violence seething beneath his limited social skills. In the films scariest scene, Endore knifes a Chinese soldier to death unnecessarily, then dances around the body. A ritualized killing. Endore is one scary stranger. Id stay away from him, so would you. Hes the guy we read about in the papers, maybe even joke about nervously.

This crazy mans nemesis arrives in the form of Roy Loomis, a young and frightened recruit. He is shocked and disgusted by Endores actions, but is rebuffed by his CO and squadmates. Loomis isn't worth anything. It's Endore who is valuable, who can kill, who can do the dirty work. Loomis is annoyingly innocent however, and you know there's going to be a big confrontation coming up.

The confrontation arrives in the form of a cease fire.The Korean War is ending, but has Endores war just begun? Check it out and see. Fast moving, suspenseful, frightening. Best line: Endore(explaining how he can sneak up on the enemy without being seen) "Because I'm invisible---the truth blinds you."

Bye Bye Birdie

"Nice? Heh HEH! I know that show business crowd - probably living in sin."


For those who have never seen Bye Bye Birdie, this 1963 film version will be a lot more enjoyable than for those familiar with the stage show, as this musical was vastly overhauled in order for Warner Brothers to showcase their new up and coming star, it is only a pale imitation of the original musical. As a matter of fact, Dick Van Dyke, who played Albert Peterson on Broadway and won a Tony for his efforts, made the film during his hiatus from the first season of The Dick Van Dyke Show and upon returning to the TV show, asked his cast members not to see the film because it was "The Ann-Margret Show" not Bye Bye Birdie. The late Paul Lynde, who also appeared onstage and in the film as Kim's father was quoted as saying the film should be called "Hello Ann-Margret."

Everyone else in the film was reduced to supporting status in order to put Ann-Margret front and center for this story of the mania that sweeps over a small town called Sweet Apple, Ohio, when a famous rock and roll singer gets drafted. Despite the complete overhaul of the original show, it's still an entertaining film with Van Dyke in top form as Albert and Paul Lynde hysterically funny as Harry McAfee, Kim's father. Maureen Stapleton has some funny moments as Albert's mother; however, Janet Leigh was a rather bland replacement for spitfire Chita Rivera, who played Albert's girl Rosie on Broadway. Ann-Margret is okay as Kim and makes the most of this showcast. There are some great musical numbers though, expertly choreographed by Onna White, including "The Telephone Hour", "Sincere", and "Gotta Lotta Livin to Do". Only Jesse Pearson misses the boat as rock and roller Conrad Birdie. :)

The Collector

Released :
July 31, 2009

Directed by :
Marcus Dunstan

Starring :
Josh Stewart, Daniella Alonso, Michael Reilly Burke

Plot :
THE COLLECTOR follows the story of handyman and ex-con Arkin, who aims to repay a debt to his ex-wife by robbing his new employers country home. Unfortunately for Arkin, a far worse enemy has already laid claim to the property and the family. As the seconds tick down to midnight, Arkin becomes a reluctant hero trapped by a masked "Collector" in a maze of lethal invention the Spanish Inquisition as imagined by Rube Goldberg while trying to rescue the very family he came to rob.