tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52172622685988524792024-03-16T18:51:17.358+00:00She Likes MoviesReality, Fiction and Film oh myKatie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comBlogger1316125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-24733070936319321632024-03-16T11:06:00.005+00:002024-03-16T11:06:44.508+00:00Dogman<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipIybBlj4pBtdB4BSpVf6zwY8knru_KWbXD6iWnqpQiTaJKdfIz5rRZ2ZRRu3ADpTOF_e1itpvDrSyiwIf9TZSRefV1-fLyKRdMWaJLMCslThkFUcyi0_3djyVvEYvLkzJSRRbs8G0sZnMDgbyM8OOXUg8zL2vFoyK03XIxQvk7gfYv9CzehwXwHec5XTb/s885/Screenshot%202024-03-01%20at%2015.26.40.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="885" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipIybBlj4pBtdB4BSpVf6zwY8knru_KWbXD6iWnqpQiTaJKdfIz5rRZ2ZRRu3ADpTOF_e1itpvDrSyiwIf9TZSRefV1-fLyKRdMWaJLMCslThkFUcyi0_3djyVvEYvLkzJSRRbs8G0sZnMDgbyM8OOXUg8zL2vFoyK03XIxQvk7gfYv9CzehwXwHec5XTb/w640-h284/Screenshot%202024-03-01%20at%2015.26.40.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">The opening sequence of man in drag, bleeding, driving a huge truck with a pack of dogs in the back, sets up the film to be one hell of story, but very soon turns into a very melancholic tale that never really seems to quite fit together. </span><i style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">Dogman</i><span style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">, the latest film from genre director Luc Besson, is, on the surface an intriguing story, highly character driven full blood, sweat and tears. But delve deeper and the plot falls apart, with just great performances to hold it all together.</span></p><p><span style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2024/03/dogman-film-review/" target="_blank">Filmhounds</a>.</span></p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-48408858117741786982024-03-15T11:06:00.001+00:002024-03-16T11:11:06.544+00:00Snack Shack<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTHjOIFfxUljysK4ECmKDykQ9LDgXZN90napGqykq09juEkQphPDAtni8VgExDNRyrNIL_ycckTxxFpBjDB1I68Uz9jfXdj4PcPufjxP5Q1rO9BzFxVNG6WdEv7P5YeERLViJJy1UgDJ1NYmIPvKv8CAumLDWFmrv_qRZgt5pm4GZFPVW8a3Z2mqN9OSPT/s889/Screenshot%202024-03-01%20at%2016.20.27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="392" data-original-width="889" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTHjOIFfxUljysK4ECmKDykQ9LDgXZN90napGqykq09juEkQphPDAtni8VgExDNRyrNIL_ycckTxxFpBjDB1I68Uz9jfXdj4PcPufjxP5Q1rO9BzFxVNG6WdEv7P5YeERLViJJy1UgDJ1NYmIPvKv8CAumLDWFmrv_qRZgt5pm4GZFPVW8a3Z2mqN9OSPT/w640-h282/Screenshot%202024-03-01%20at%2016.20.27.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 15px;">It may feel a little early for a teen summer <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/?s=Comedy" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #00baff;">comedy</a> to be making a splash, but <em style="box-sizing: inherit;">Snack Shack</em> is ahead of the curve. With a great cast, in particular the two leads <a class="st_tag internal_tag " href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/tag/conor-sherry/" rel="tag" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #00baff;" title="Posts tagged with Conor Sherry">Conor Sherry</a> as AJ and <a class="st_tag internal_tag " href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/tag/gabriel-labelle/" rel="tag" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #00baff;" title="Posts tagged with Gabriel LaBelle">Gabriel LaBelle</a> as Moose, and a fun vibe running throughout, there is more than meets the eye with this film from director <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0716814/?ref_=tt_ov_dr" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #00baff;">Adam Rehmeier</a>.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 15px;">After being harangued into getting a job for the summer, teenage best friends AJ and Moose win a bid at their council to run the snack shack at the local swimming pool. Through their entrepreneurial spirit, they try to turn a profit and plan for future ventures. But when a new lifeguard, Brooke (Mika Abdalla), arrives on the scene, the boys' friendship and business are put to the test.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 15px;">Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2024/03/snack-shack-film-review/" target="_blank">Filmhounds </a></p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-67443602746846145392024-02-11T21:41:00.004+00:002024-02-11T21:41:51.886+00:00Marmalade<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGo3wxAtXdwW1OGcSXQWpqgMTYjWhDchebmKQnx_voqnoZ1OE-vajWgCjoN_ML8mNEFs521UXS7rhAFOcZnhlCbj_2NJgXXqg4FAvzW4z3x087AtOQuW_URqJLEc2AWBzkid8VQ_X6FnquoEJ1aQhkL6cf2N3IpGEuES6ggkBPQHm8F6hQteJPBtEPNF1/s892/Screenshot%202024-02-04%20at%2019.25.19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="892" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGo3wxAtXdwW1OGcSXQWpqgMTYjWhDchebmKQnx_voqnoZ1OE-vajWgCjoN_ML8mNEFs521UXS7rhAFOcZnhlCbj_2NJgXXqg4FAvzW4z3x087AtOQuW_URqJLEc2AWBzkid8VQ_X6FnquoEJ1aQhkL6cf2N3IpGEuES6ggkBPQHm8F6hQteJPBtEPNF1/w640-h280/Screenshot%202024-02-04%20at%2019.25.19.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><div>On the surface, Marmalade could be just another love story, just another Bonnie & Clyde-esque scenario but something more complex lurks below the surface. </div><div><br /></div><div>Finding himself captured and thrown in prison, naïve Baron strikes up a tentative deal with his cell mate Otis who has bragged about being able to escape. As they formulate a plan, Baron recounts his life story and most importantly how he met the love of his life, the enigmatic Marmalade. He tells Otis of how they robbed a bank in order help his sick mother and have enough to start their new lives together. But all is not quite what it seems in the prison or in Baron’s story.</div><div><br /></div><div>Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2024/02/marmalade-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>Filmhounds</b></a>.</div>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-53721251783288970692024-02-06T14:24:00.001+00:002024-02-06T14:24:11.988+00:00Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZwk-SGwkmSD3rPA8Xze_RKVZM3fcKEKphoocXcmnhHpPCtLLOjV60-GtbZZOEqk3ANFrxB2HKVh1Aq0fFKqeQE_KxbU9KyD7dbqXRNsNhr28niKuQi6S6R8GiDVLE83aYgsi3dnuJeeDkNUnYA9dkBxLrB-Aa5Ze2POhgGh5N8B-luiOEx5-euiGdTf8O/s888/Screenshot%202024-02-04%20at%2020.10.04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="888" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZwk-SGwkmSD3rPA8Xze_RKVZM3fcKEKphoocXcmnhHpPCtLLOjV60-GtbZZOEqk3ANFrxB2HKVh1Aq0fFKqeQE_KxbU9KyD7dbqXRNsNhr28niKuQi6S6R8GiDVLE83aYgsi3dnuJeeDkNUnYA9dkBxLrB-Aa5Ze2POhgGh5N8B-luiOEx5-euiGdTf8O/w640-h284/Screenshot%202024-02-04%20at%2020.10.04.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><div><p style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px;">Sport centric films can either fall by the wayside or are able to capture the attention of any audience. Motorsports might be in the latter category for the pure adrenalin and speed spectacle elements. But those films based on historical events, tend to cut down on the excitement and concentrate on the drama off the track. <i>Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia</i> is based on a real championship. Anyone who is interested in motorsports, specifically rally driving will at least get some joy out of this one.</p><p style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px;"> </p><p style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px;">At the 1983 World Rally Championship, the intense and at times, petty rivalry between the German led Audi Sport GmbH team and the Italian led Lancia Abarth team comes to a head. With the Audi Quattro car a favourite to win, Lancia lead Cesare Fiorio tries everything within his power to make his team a success, even hiring the renowned German rally driver Walter Rohrl for only half the races.</p><p style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px;">Full review at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2024/02/race-for-glory-audi-vs-lancia-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>Filmhounds </b></a></p></div>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-40175964795387500882024-01-31T09:28:00.005+00:002024-01-31T09:28:56.691+00:00Slotherhouse <p><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvEHEIQYy4zcwLl1FrZA_UFlPz4eiPJTroOBp12e0_J7SW6Q2brXNpVz4DSEjtaJ8SYlSxPAQcha6JwuAiipxYXRy-1qP9qf018BeodDtZsmu1gc9gzWNIAvwpA-9CANCI4T_HSc0SMBfjnMbu18lTHuXWm9zwo5-9Vrph5VexR2bDusv69RUprFpZQVVD/s888/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2022.48.02.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="888" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvEHEIQYy4zcwLl1FrZA_UFlPz4eiPJTroOBp12e0_J7SW6Q2brXNpVz4DSEjtaJ8SYlSxPAQcha6JwuAiipxYXRy-1qP9qf018BeodDtZsmu1gc9gzWNIAvwpA-9CANCI4T_HSc0SMBfjnMbu18lTHuXWm9zwo5-9Vrph5VexR2bDusv69RUprFpZQVVD/w640-h278/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2022.48.02.png" width="640" /></a></div><p><span style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">We all know the story of the creature, the monster, loose in the enclosed building. There’s no way to escape, despite there being many exits but those unlucky souls trapped inside are doomed no matter what they do. We are also familiar with slasher horror films. A mysterious person or entity kills a group of people one by one in violent and bloody ways. Mashing up horror genres with comedy isn’t something new. However, having one of the slowest animals on Earth become</span><span style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><i style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">the</i><span style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">creature of the feature, as well as the antagonist slasher, is one of the most bizarre twists on film.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;">Desperate for popularity points so that she can become her sorority’s president, senior Emily adopts a three-toed sloth, making it the house mascot. But as her popularity rises, so do the number of mysterious deaths and disappearances within the house. Realising too late the havoc and bloodshed the sloth can cause, Emily and her remaining Sigma Lambda Theta sisters must fight for their lives.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;">Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2024/01/slotherhouse-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>Filmhounds</b></a> </p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comCG5C+WW Staines, UK51.4097546 -0.477694550.721110292588136 -1.5763273125000001 52.098398907411863 0.6209383125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-46703611564349026192024-01-26T23:00:00.005+00:002024-01-26T23:00:37.346+00:00Poor Things<p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLd38CmjaKECZX6GVd7qoTSTZIvC98yWwiRz3u6A9PZQFmVbmtZUEs3eJ9UVnjevwN9N-2QE4fFtPVvvAvp-XUz331Ey1Jpk2NceXHhu5sDZjb449PnArgAjsheN3wvL89SYDtFBrUYgWm-72UK7aerUJexE6JtKSaKXuxoWjVeRVdadbKvnPc1QRPohoB/s888/Screenshot%202023-10-14%20at%2023.35.37.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="73" data-original-width="888" height="52" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLd38CmjaKECZX6GVd7qoTSTZIvC98yWwiRz3u6A9PZQFmVbmtZUEs3eJ9UVnjevwN9N-2QE4fFtPVvvAvp-XUz331Ey1Jpk2NceXHhu5sDZjb449PnArgAjsheN3wvL89SYDtFBrUYgWm-72UK7aerUJexE6JtKSaKXuxoWjVeRVdadbKvnPc1QRPohoB/w640-h52/Screenshot%202023-10-14%20at%2023.35.37.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">In the wake of Academy award nominations, the somewhat fantastical science fiction comedy Poor Things is garnering further attention, both sceptical and admiring. The outcry from many was that this was a film about a woman’s liberation told through the eyes of a man (which happens often) and on the other hand it was an inspiring look into a woman breaking free from society, filled comments on current and past depictions of society and its expectations.</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;">Bella Baxter, a young woman, resurrected and implanted with the brain of her foetus, by the Dr Godwin, begins her life anew. As she gradually ages and wants to experience more, she runs off with a cad of a lawyer to Europe. Along her journey of self-discovery, sexual liberation, she learns of philosophy, and what it truly means to be independent.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;">Adapted from the novel by Alasdair Gray, of which is told from the perspective of the male characters, the film fully concentrates on Bella Baxter’s journey and her views of the world. We see Bella being able to break free from several constraints and that includes the male characters in the story who all seek to control her at some point. This could be a feminist story but not a universal one.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;">We see Bella breaking free from society and its expectations, but to gain much of this liberation, she had to join a brothel. It’s incredibly frustrating to continuously see this depiction of sexual liberation on screen. There has rarely been an alternative. A series of events happen for Bella to end up in this situation, but the key being, she ultimately chooses to stay working in the brothel. But at first, she is too naïve to understand what is happening as she is still, technically, young. This woman’s liberation is through sexual exploitation, firstly by the lawyer who brings her to Europe in the first place, and then by her first encounter at the brothel.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;">There is something satisfying about Bella being desired continuously along the way by all these men, wanting to control her, keep her locked away but she ends up outwitting them, or in fact taking control of them in various ways. BUT at the same time, that continuous mention of how beautiful Bella is, is also how she able to behave outrageously without consequence or severe punishment. Her ‘pretty privilege’ is not discussed at length as most are too focused on the sexual elements and male controlling women, but it is something to be noted.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;">The steampunk Victorian set period makes for a fantastical world where places and things are twisted to suit this director Yorgos Lanthimos’s film world. These are the most enjoyable elements about the films, aside from the comedic dialogue and the scenes with Mark Ruffalo as the cad lawyer, Duncan Wedderburn. But the story and Bella herself are at times, too hard to swallow and the choices made to depict a woman’s liberation feels too one note and are rather basic ideas</p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-74012165225774435052024-01-15T20:53:00.001+00:002024-02-04T20:56:04.386+00:00Mean Streets<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTx4Blyp0Ks4z6D7K8Iw7kdtsR_-3f0Q5OjGXlpGPmI4_VNLsaxEaHd4VXUJAXnsyxuoBCi96tfiNz9BUYGrAXFLTy3UYpg4Zyry_o8WmTrQ9cZxkVgbS75BmB9eS3bXTjbybFF9GcX6zckLNVak5ao6-rY2avJE_ZCx0EYZT6qYabpfE3YEm3cWDgmF3/s889/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2022.43.43.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="889" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTx4Blyp0Ks4z6D7K8Iw7kdtsR_-3f0Q5OjGXlpGPmI4_VNLsaxEaHd4VXUJAXnsyxuoBCi96tfiNz9BUYGrAXFLTy3UYpg4Zyry_o8WmTrQ9cZxkVgbS75BmB9eS3bXTjbybFF9GcX6zckLNVak5ao6-rY2avJE_ZCx0EYZT6qYabpfE3YEm3cWDgmF3/w640-h280/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2022.43.43.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>Martin Scorsese has been known for his gangster films, as well as a foray into other genres, but his third film, Mean Streets was the one that pushed him into the spotlight. A gangster film about violence, crime and fraught friendship, Mean Streets not only showcased Scorsese's talent, this was Harvey Keitel and Robert De Niro's first appearance together in a film, as well as the first in a long line of films, the latter worked on with the director. It could be said that Mean Streets was the start of something special.</p><div>Following a group of 20-somethings as they each try to make a name for themselves in New York city, going from small time criminals to aspiring gangsters. Charlie, trying his best to avoid crime but working for his mafia boss uncle, dreams of opening his own restaurant. Along with Tony, who runs the local bar and Michael, a loan shark who runs small dodgy deals, Charlie spends his time cleaning up the messes of his sometimes friend, Johnny Boy, a petty thug who rips off loan sharks for a living. But sooner or later, Johnny Boy's bad habits will catch up with him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Full review over at Filmhounds <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2024/01/mean-streets-blu-ray-4k-review/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</div>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-15176266857108517962024-01-08T11:00:00.001+00:002024-01-13T23:42:21.009+00:00Watch List 2023<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjczpdHNl8kD83tdRcvl6saoRnjiKfDVydoTzWzYR7Atn2Arb4EuqPYBea9r3iClfuMoIN0xSrKUEJ0P1BFWWiSiWj68Vspur1zkBbwm_JrccL0pbd4HItRLaAuALpjzB6KSordQkIDh6IhOF2ikc658PRLk6uCx_143abjQ-johgMFRAtLfMz7Fvg0zbPx/s529/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2022.17.50.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="132" data-original-width="529" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjczpdHNl8kD83tdRcvl6saoRnjiKfDVydoTzWzYR7Atn2Arb4EuqPYBea9r3iClfuMoIN0xSrKUEJ0P1BFWWiSiWj68Vspur1zkBbwm_JrccL0pbd4HItRLaAuALpjzB6KSordQkIDh6IhOF2ikc658PRLk6uCx_143abjQ-johgMFRAtLfMz7Fvg0zbPx/w640-h160/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2022.17.50.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>Another year of film and what a spectacular one it has been. Thankfully and with much effort I was able to see more films this time around, hopefully following that trend into 2024. With the all the voting done and lists revealed, here's my top films from the year.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhZI3LhMFstcusXbCgdt1swolWGxK3UgQP27aPNRh_1FBhghRQBNQ2GeS0iIKCMLdSo3grlYuc8n_fRB43VaBLBUGFwWUt_Kmzc6aTeMqIXbwPO6Nez0HDujmnWFyN8X31zVjD64mavVIY9yubE33Xi9eQ7yXFqoLoBA5dJCXREb0yA37mEPB9XLHJeGVI/s707/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.27.14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="92" data-original-width="707" height="53" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhZI3LhMFstcusXbCgdt1swolWGxK3UgQP27aPNRh_1FBhghRQBNQ2GeS0iIKCMLdSo3grlYuc8n_fRB43VaBLBUGFwWUt_Kmzc6aTeMqIXbwPO6Nez0HDujmnWFyN8X31zVjD64mavVIY9yubE33Xi9eQ7yXFqoLoBA5dJCXREb0yA37mEPB9XLHJeGVI/w400-h53/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.27.14.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>A profound and most understated story that could be interpreted many ways, but for me it was about longing, lost love and the all too heartbreaking, 'what if'. I wrote about <i>Past Lives</i> for Filmhounds in the latest issue, which can be bought <a href="https://filmhounds.bigcartel.com/product/filmhounds-magazine-19" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_02jHX-ZWtg5beqPZ3xtyyhfg3_QjclrVlIx2k_JrWwkNeam2dX7vkEW0NYGZfr-KXuPUXmosGxuzdS3XwXsTbp1-33S4qvp-vJt3LqvTHASJgJHTlhRdtkOGo_Vad_CWm1nweRerx1-0XtXCzO8_bQGUUBTdQjWkk7in10752RYcKBNRAFqfvf4iRql3/s411/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.27.55.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="113" data-original-width="411" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_02jHX-ZWtg5beqPZ3xtyyhfg3_QjclrVlIx2k_JrWwkNeam2dX7vkEW0NYGZfr-KXuPUXmosGxuzdS3XwXsTbp1-33S4qvp-vJt3LqvTHASJgJHTlhRdtkOGo_Vad_CWm1nweRerx1-0XtXCzO8_bQGUUBTdQjWkk7in10752RYcKBNRAFqfvf4iRql3/w400-h110/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.27.55.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>All I have to say about the deliciously twisted film can be read <a href="https://shelikesmovies.blogspot.com/2023/12/saltburn.html" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivKV52V2whFPoIJ71mu4unzUXvkefYfn2R58Wvme0Au4-A2S5EhPDXAp4Lmsf0MCg2G6B47-mkFMamZ4Jyqhx9N9E96umcYKy5W6R7snBJCFn7_ueWdG63rjV2AcIWSb4QqL4QWlsscYrM52rXaTu4hguEtohqEgM_5HLKgVm8tHS8FjAP9oMwYrsQUS8/s462/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.29.16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="163" data-original-width="462" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivKV52V2whFPoIJ71mu4unzUXvkefYfn2R58Wvme0Au4-A2S5EhPDXAp4Lmsf0MCg2G6B47-mkFMamZ4Jyqhx9N9E96umcYKy5W6R7snBJCFn7_ueWdG63rjV2AcIWSb4QqL4QWlsscYrM52rXaTu4hguEtohqEgM_5HLKgVm8tHS8FjAP9oMwYrsQUS8/w400-h141/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.29.16.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>This was the end of an era, my personal favourite Marvel storyline and with this ending the fighting family gang adventures, I don't need to see anymore Marvel film. This was as heartbreaking as any ending would have been. There were laughs and rage and tears, which pretty much sums up the film. Letting our gang go out with a bang and appropriate endings for them all. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUhfrdR30BgOyb3abCz1OsBT0RUZFm05933BVyBDqZdx9FBKPoBVm1_u_vtAk2RDANFudk_A1ZiQuvHx-gWaPAZQPRv-9fa8Pg7LA8ZcSWeixnB6FLP9s2_pkljQ4ZEVf8M7DYH8zZ5h0PIK2LZUFmnoPfElMFF3YYINwZtjizs7vVxGwgVtbnnpS5kpFC/s342/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.28.23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="133" data-original-width="342" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUhfrdR30BgOyb3abCz1OsBT0RUZFm05933BVyBDqZdx9FBKPoBVm1_u_vtAk2RDANFudk_A1ZiQuvHx-gWaPAZQPRv-9fa8Pg7LA8ZcSWeixnB6FLP9s2_pkljQ4ZEVf8M7DYH8zZ5h0PIK2LZUFmnoPfElMFF3YYINwZtjizs7vVxGwgVtbnnpS5kpFC/w400-h155/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.28.23.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>Based on the fantasy sci-fi graphic novel of the same name, the shapeshifter Nimona graced out screens via Netflix and left quite an impression. Amazing animation and special effects with gut wrenching storylines and great characters, my only wish would have been a theatrical release. I wrote about the film, in particular one of the best scenes in the film for Filmhounds, which can be read <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/12/the-best-scenes-of-the-year-as-chosen-by-filmhounds/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUdslCEwvHeyXdNfomG30_EB_QPz_oIgpPoEEkKZH-HRtbx10yHX_Xu4G-z9MEVOUOTMtAUuE3ODyNr38lWZeJlqm1xYLbyps9vTexpJtOTs5cP3ZjUG0GY1b3umhfnS7D_kwL-aADdr05OkUtJdaxmOygK2_mo2A6bnVE2rwHKpcagBCaiaScNsYdC3IH/s875/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.34.26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="875" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUdslCEwvHeyXdNfomG30_EB_QPz_oIgpPoEEkKZH-HRtbx10yHX_Xu4G-z9MEVOUOTMtAUuE3ODyNr38lWZeJlqm1xYLbyps9vTexpJtOTs5cP3ZjUG0GY1b3umhfnS7D_kwL-aADdr05OkUtJdaxmOygK2_mo2A6bnVE2rwHKpcagBCaiaScNsYdC3IH/w400-h113/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.34.26.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>One of the most under seen films of the year but with an ever pressing message. My review can be read <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/04/how-to-blow-up-a-pipeline-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh740LLjWtD7NCXNfFY_xXA9xL2gyi42_kMlsAmdoviXv1aRtNgmHpZGaaOSwssQjCsmMEt_Q8Dxp0q4Sms4GigKgIHHtrsIpryptTbCavMJVVimt5OmzqKY5GfDhgrXB4BHHKMGBeNDgxNKehvaklV7tEjOVjNSxcMZbKb8qxMaAePXKsQ7Cj3pIMByqa/s607/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.31.05.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="192" data-original-width="607" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh740LLjWtD7NCXNfFY_xXA9xL2gyi42_kMlsAmdoviXv1aRtNgmHpZGaaOSwssQjCsmMEt_Q8Dxp0q4Sms4GigKgIHHtrsIpryptTbCavMJVVimt5OmzqKY5GfDhgrXB4BHHKMGBeNDgxNKehvaklV7tEjOVjNSxcMZbKb8qxMaAePXKsQ7Cj3pIMByqa/w400-h126/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.31.05.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>A favourite from LFF 2023, the slow burn thriller set in the Outback. My review can be read <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/10/the-royal-hotel-bfi-london-film-festival-2023-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfMikEnvDOkr3pUIJBaPjbFKW3LxknccYmBJMX8qLUWXiRO8UIhvwU9_JEiL8QeLkK58Z2_Wrnmi77YQTHc1_dQ0evsBMvgrhrzsEH0Kj8HTzust2a2Pa1Vmqt88C012Zfk0Xol1R5vvhyphenhyphenfGbCjOPCjuTex0O8CvjWZysoh8HChyphenhyphennVRJnBYywRZ3IXe3n/s461/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.30.37.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="124" data-original-width="461" height="108" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfMikEnvDOkr3pUIJBaPjbFKW3LxknccYmBJMX8qLUWXiRO8UIhvwU9_JEiL8QeLkK58Z2_Wrnmi77YQTHc1_dQ0evsBMvgrhrzsEH0Kj8HTzust2a2Pa1Vmqt88C012Zfk0Xol1R5vvhyphenhyphenfGbCjOPCjuTex0O8CvjWZysoh8HChyphenhyphennVRJnBYywRZ3IXe3n/w400-h108/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.30.37.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>Just when you thought romantic comedies had gone stale and were only for streamers. We get a story with two electric leads (with fantastic chemistry) set over the course of one day. The comedy was genuine, the romance not over kill, it was a perfect mix and thankfully, this was on the big screen where it should be.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja29A5hVyQeb2ALsespLMUFy8WvKxALG2M91eIMNsajzB0wVOUrb4HAb1Wj4QrkarNEOUw3hWzGJ_RxkrTjyP-tmgJpA0p39W3bh-c4DJpUOGGTgfzZVj09_zvqrtgW7EALWrWjQzW69jqV0jWddlvKULl-fIYohLlGgKO2Qedo2lF6l35sRXwYhfd5nBO/s485/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.30.12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="85" data-original-width="485" height="70" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja29A5hVyQeb2ALsespLMUFy8WvKxALG2M91eIMNsajzB0wVOUrb4HAb1Wj4QrkarNEOUw3hWzGJ_RxkrTjyP-tmgJpA0p39W3bh-c4DJpUOGGTgfzZVj09_zvqrtgW7EALWrWjQzW69jqV0jWddlvKULl-fIYohLlGgKO2Qedo2lF6l35sRXwYhfd5nBO/w400-h70/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.30.12.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>The title feels hard hitting but its more than that. My review can be read <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/11/how-to-have-sex-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3XiKrlws59YTC3d6wBoQv7aHQtolTyxnZnXJAC0D-F7k_9h2RwKlW2XFuFlD9NU6ZM9frHaVIjXizPV3Ok6Cy9dPdUPfJZtXMUVzJpuRDf7pGt6PVhnkreVceZeGw52hA80QRfvNrEaDxD-5UeMAo5vR4kk5jjEWAzGeqN5uitQP-FKqUQiRkUVY_0zLf/s572/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.31.38.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="85" data-original-width="572" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3XiKrlws59YTC3d6wBoQv7aHQtolTyxnZnXJAC0D-F7k_9h2RwKlW2XFuFlD9NU6ZM9frHaVIjXizPV3Ok6Cy9dPdUPfJZtXMUVzJpuRDf7pGt6PVhnkreVceZeGw52hA80QRfvNrEaDxD-5UeMAo5vR4kk5jjEWAzGeqN5uitQP-FKqUQiRkUVY_0zLf/w640-h96/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.31.38.png" width="640" /></a></div><p>Taking the world literally by storm. We all willing took that hand and were drawn into the world of possession. This hit a chord with so much so I made a zine! My full review can be read <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/07/talk-to-me-sundance-london-2023-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>. Sadly, all the zines are sold out.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDnr5z0MF9hVEWV-VY1I2JbTBSQ7bLavGlUkmwSMJUfEFfzLMMiQ-Qs4Iy4XDlNm44RnF4S-J_dupmf7YBuIgwxWzx7WS-n2iOwS4I3l-iByP0oPN3EHdSNl5hWe2zsGFQoUyCl86fcY6BCaL_FI-osAJ27LqYB_ZVJAUwdRKuKA6gNkRppR1B7kxKnIQP/s573/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.32.02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="205" data-original-width="573" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDnr5z0MF9hVEWV-VY1I2JbTBSQ7bLavGlUkmwSMJUfEFfzLMMiQ-Qs4Iy4XDlNm44RnF4S-J_dupmf7YBuIgwxWzx7WS-n2iOwS4I3l-iByP0oPN3EHdSNl5hWe2zsGFQoUyCl86fcY6BCaL_FI-osAJ27LqYB_ZVJAUwdRKuKA6gNkRppR1B7kxKnIQP/w400-h143/Screenshot%202024-01-13%20at%2023.32.02.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>The biggest question of the Summer, <i>Barbie</i> or <i>Oppenheimer</i>? Of course I saw the one about a land where all the Barbies dolls live out their most progressive careers, until one Barbie and Ken escape to the real world. Christopher Nolan's biopic was decent but in no way would I choose that over <i>Barbie</i>. This film had everything (except the ending, for me I had some issues), with not only hilarious moments, but a Ken musical number, toxic masculinity dive, and seeing the entire board of Mattel chasing Barbie all over town and into her world. There's too much to condense into a few sentences here to convey all the amazing aspects of the film, so thats Kenough for now.</p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-49887227956253466312023-12-20T23:35:00.002+00:002023-12-20T23:56:49.711+00:00Saltburn <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVSVVLL71nGADeQtUE5jqWnI2ttiKzvxT8784kSeI_GVJVGej1QRTm6RB_2odTR9ZGwqk7__pdGo6fOuX8c8k6lwhjxm-6LjThozXqibmSHjqaXgOXHVBTw9mU3EYCMnEyxq4pgrrn68KQgYdv_U9RhCOuavtwqVRADVNPJWpe45l78yVP39kJyiTbjEOW" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="92" data-original-width="612" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVSVVLL71nGADeQtUE5jqWnI2ttiKzvxT8784kSeI_GVJVGej1QRTm6RB_2odTR9ZGwqk7__pdGo6fOuX8c8k6lwhjxm-6LjThozXqibmSHjqaXgOXHVBTw9mU3EYCMnEyxq4pgrrn68KQgYdv_U9RhCOuavtwqVRADVNPJWpe45l78yVP39kJyiTbjEOW=w640-h96" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="color: #212121;">The film has divided audiences, one side disgusted, the other mesmerised but also, quite disgusted. Inspired by and somewhat a homage to</span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="color: #212121;"> </span><i style="color: #212121;">Brideshead Revisited</i><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="color: #212121;">,</span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="color: #212121;"> </span><i style="color: #212121;">The Talented Mr Ripley</i><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="color: #212121;"> </span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="color: #212121;">and with a smattering of</span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="color: #212121;"> </span><i style="color: #212121;">Kind Hearts and Coronets</i><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="color: #212121;">, Emerald Fennell’s second feature goes further than you’d think and finally twists the knife in your side, but you can’t help but be entertained.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With explicit visceral sex scenes and gag inducing moments involving bathtub water and rain drenched grave, the characters that accompany these memorable parts are just as fascinating. Following Oliver, as he attends Oxford, a lonely outsider, who strikes up an unlikely friendship with the popular wealthy upper-class Felix. After becoming such good friends, and feeling sorry for him, Felix invites Oliver to stay with him and his family over the summer at his manor house, Saltburn. Oliver, desperate to stay close to Felix and be part of this life, manipulate his way through each family member until his own secrets are revealed and he makes some drastic choices.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If <i>Promising Young Woman</i> was retribution, <i>Saltburn</i> is obsession and entitlement. The Catton family are in privileged positions and on several occasions express the fact they feel entitled to have things their way. They want for nothing, except maybe cousin Farleigh, who is in a precarious situation. Oliver feels entitled to the same lifestyle he has partaken in through his friendship with Felix. After having a taste of this privileged existence, he believes he is entitled to take it from those around him. The argument that the film tried to make us sympathise with the upper-class characters as they come across as kind, welcoming and overall, the ‘nicer’ people is just a thin veil of what lurks beneath. Each member of the family has an underlining mean streak that appears at some point. As much of their dialogue, particularly Elspeth, comes across as absurd and comical. Making this film about class and class alone rather ruins the overarching point of the story. This isn’t about the Catton family; this is Oliver’s story and how he decides what he will become.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Oliver is indeed the interloper and rarely seems like a genuinely good person. From the start he pretends to be from a poor background with a difficult home life and upbringing but when it is revealed that he is from a relatively average middle class home, it reveals that Oliver is far more twisted. His lies know no end. The film begins with him insisting he wasn’t in love Felix and as the film goes on, we start to question is Oliver has told a single truth throughout and whether his opening statement was also a lie. In some ways, Oliver is an unreliable narrator who doesn’t narrate. It is his story but we don’t know how he really feels or thinks, just that he craves Felix, his family, Saltburn, his obsession grows as he starts understand himself what he really wants.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; margin: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-36032558135352204322023-12-01T18:21:00.002+00:002023-12-01T18:21:38.960+00:00Femme<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFzkzmnnXNmk4CjkJNTS3uQQMA3Mt5j9uLMibPigUAo-OqrYZeu418yNrF8toh6wC9qvO62rox1CnmItoLNmApm5fGwgrzEvVMM91_lwoEos5RG9xPNZXhQixkZTFixiTvn0cwP29xuDuEeiwt3h_ZW_MYIvt42JUoK6VNjwAxPew83rGDohNvAujaZhd/s891/Screenshot%202023-11-20%20at%2023.32.26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="891" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFzkzmnnXNmk4CjkJNTS3uQQMA3Mt5j9uLMibPigUAo-OqrYZeu418yNrF8toh6wC9qvO62rox1CnmItoLNmApm5fGwgrzEvVMM91_lwoEos5RG9xPNZXhQixkZTFixiTvn0cwP29xuDuEeiwt3h_ZW_MYIvt42JUoK6VNjwAxPew83rGDohNvAujaZhd/w640-h280/Screenshot%202023-11-20%20at%2023.32.26.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>Revenge stories always have an intriguing angle, whether we see it from the victim or the perpetrator or from somewhere in between. There is always a new angle to take and <i>Femme </i>delivers us something that we haven't seen in a while, an actual British thriller that has on the edge of our seats throughout. Based on the short film by writers and directors, Sam H. Freeman and Ng Choon Ping, the feature film is tense emotional revenge story that feels relentless. So brilliantly executed, razor sharp characters and compelling performances from Nathan Stewart-Jarrett and George Mackay.</p><p>Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/12/femme-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>Filmhounds</b></a>. </p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-26073428434036236492023-11-15T11:02:00.001+00:002023-11-15T11:02:00.151+00:00Mafia Mamma<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyTtfPpMwDvHtQhOZc-_4u1BBYixayIw3aquUk4RGyYmm8x1Jy_Vh9BZe8yTu6JfTZHZhtFuCTmWuCOUMB2JEi76l5o9ycLuTcf8HR1yn0lcaarkDS9TF1ofmpUYFOexm1kj9vRLhA93rQW1ADQlS3Oi1YIiL-RA3B2T1_JjrbbaFbkCgAXtHS2izyZHXr/s888/Screenshot%202023-11-14%20at%2023.11.43.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="888" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyTtfPpMwDvHtQhOZc-_4u1BBYixayIw3aquUk4RGyYmm8x1Jy_Vh9BZe8yTu6JfTZHZhtFuCTmWuCOUMB2JEi76l5o9ycLuTcf8HR1yn0lcaarkDS9TF1ofmpUYFOexm1kj9vRLhA93rQW1ADQlS3Oi1YIiL-RA3B2T1_JjrbbaFbkCgAXtHS2izyZHXr/w640-h280/Screenshot%202023-11-14%20at%2023.11.43.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p>
When you think of crime family, we don’t automatically think comedy about a woman having a midlife crisis discovers she’s actually part of the mafia. Comedy and violence have gone hand in hand with plenty of other films, sometimes treading that fine line between funny and tasteless. It would be harsh to say that Mafia Mamma is both as there are comedic moments and a fair few eye rolling scenes too. Especially with every mention or reference to The Godfather. But instead of the mix of comedy and obvious violence, we also get the woman wants and has it all scenario, with a touch dull romance on the side. Just like the wine they make in the film, it does not go down well.<div><br /></div><div>Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/author/katiehogan/" target="_blank">Filmhounds</a>.</div>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-49258300643600919742023-11-10T13:30:00.001+00:002023-11-11T00:19:32.233+00:00Santa Claus: The Movie<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLvy7J3R9sRL-XeuLHe7MexObXeGAVwL04OnK1xytdTt4kjYnP3fN08tlG1do1EpYAjyanxz_gffV4Y07uG8Ckg5Mpy3nwHkwRDK6YoAd0ChekCUSutWkPcYy3mNPs9Wlz3gR-Z61C55NCNh0qNvsi5lrAr-5VJ807LCkwn1xVTXTJpAWhKW4hvXocvZB/s900/SCTM%20main.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="900" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLvy7J3R9sRL-XeuLHe7MexObXeGAVwL04OnK1xytdTt4kjYnP3fN08tlG1do1EpYAjyanxz_gffV4Y07uG8Ckg5Mpy3nwHkwRDK6YoAd0ChekCUSutWkPcYy3mNPs9Wlz3gR-Z61C55NCNh0qNvsi5lrAr-5VJ807LCkwn1xVTXTJpAWhKW4hvXocvZB/w640-h284/SCTM%20main.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>Fresh from the 80s is the restoration we didn’t know we needed. That Christmas film we all used to watch over the festive period and wonder why years later. <i>Santa Claus: The Movie</i> has everything a typical Christmas film needs; a Santa Claus origin story, a heartless toy manufacturer villain, a comedy icon using far too many elf puns, orphans ready for an adventure and some of the best costumes to come out of the North Pole. </p><p>When a woodcutter, Claus and his wife, Anya, get caught in a blizzard, they are saved by elves who take them to their magical home in the North Pole. They are told by the elves that their arrival was prophesied and that it was Claus’ destiny to deliver presents to children around the world every Christmas Eve. Throughout the centuries, they all live harmoniously, changing with the times. But when the over eager elf, Patch, believes he needs to prove himself to Santa Claus, he runs away to modern day New York. Soon the naïve Patch ends up in the clutches of a corrupt toy manufacturer who intends to take over Christmas. It’s up to Santa Claus, with the help of some new friends to save Patch and restore Christmas.</p><p>Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/11/santa-claus-the-movie-bluray-review/" target="_blank">Filmhounds.</a></p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-88401485546894721962023-11-06T12:23:00.001+00:002023-11-06T12:23:17.994+00:00How to Have Sex<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_6JELHZGwfS6Y29AMBiEWgjoy-b0hjWO39B5qNXCPmMTb5pgG7N_iU1VBGzLG6cc7BoE0PyLrlTTgtK1dPRWowI4piSup0qYSrmukrYkjhNF07oi3CqyyvbzuoCOU3AVbNqVxZLpajkriXkuL2rinylfcfdXCxNPPhfql1KoC5F5hAIyD9ABGWml5jct/s891/Screenshot%202023-11-06%20at%2011.23.01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="891" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_6JELHZGwfS6Y29AMBiEWgjoy-b0hjWO39B5qNXCPmMTb5pgG7N_iU1VBGzLG6cc7BoE0PyLrlTTgtK1dPRWowI4piSup0qYSrmukrYkjhNF07oi3CqyyvbzuoCOU3AVbNqVxZLpajkriXkuL2rinylfcfdXCxNPPhfql1KoC5F5hAIyD9ABGWml5jct/w640-h284/Screenshot%202023-11-06%20at%2011.23.01.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>There really hasn’t been any ‘teen’ movie to come out of British cinema, this rites-of-passage genre is usually saved for TV shows. We’ve seen plenty of ‘Brits’ on holiday across all stories, but sometimes its takes one focused character’s journey and the genuine emotions splayed across a big screen to really capture the essence of being a teenager, who is both strong and vulnerable. </p><p>To celebrate finishing exams, three teenage best friends, travel to party destination, Malia for what is set to be the best summer holiday ever. </p><p>Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/11/how-to-have-sex-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>Filmhounds</b></a>.</p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-53438354542139176562023-11-03T12:45:00.001+00:002023-11-06T13:01:25.344+00:00Bottoms<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9tKbe_HhlZO0iqJ4cdCjUGq3N_e1y6p-OfoIR1KSk6yUA0nYMRQ5YHQe88Oo41afiskE9LKOUggzuLBms9zk41wXB_y_RVpJMN4UtRrnirzBa9GvWpj88cT6fMhg-XdEi7AdVlKKxPKgI7WSXL0775UdGkSgyBUGGO0eRw2ixsl5xly7pLe1OioBYtfL3/s887/Screenshot%202023-11-06%20at%2012.56.12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="887" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9tKbe_HhlZO0iqJ4cdCjUGq3N_e1y6p-OfoIR1KSk6yUA0nYMRQ5YHQe88Oo41afiskE9LKOUggzuLBms9zk41wXB_y_RVpJMN4UtRrnirzBa9GvWpj88cT6fMhg-XdEi7AdVlKKxPKgI7WSXL0775UdGkSgyBUGGO0eRw2ixsl5xly7pLe1OioBYtfL3/w640-h282/Screenshot%202023-11-06%20at%2012.56.12.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
With very little fanfare, despite the buzz the film has created since its release in the US earlier this year, Bottoms, is finally in UK cinemas. Touted as a queer high school comedy about two loser who try and win over their crushes through a female only fight club is one that doesn’t really raise eyebrows. The premise is just like any other teen comedy, it’s ridiculous, funny and problematic but its very enjoyable. It’s been a while since a comedy such as this has appeared on the big screen (not streaming) in a while.<div><br /></div><div>Our two so called losers, PJ, the ever-charismatic Rachel Sennott and Josie, everyone’s favourite from The Bear’s Ayo Edebiri, just want to get with hot cheerleaders. But of course, they try and do this is the most ridiculous way. The female fight club could have had its own story to be honest, but add in horny teens and the stakes get higher, ridiculously so. So rare is it to see horny teenage girls on screen, for when they do appear, there is a bit of shock. The fact that girls can be just as manipulative as boys is a lesson well learned. But girls learning how to fight for their own protection (ultimately) AND getting to defend the poor helpless boys is beyond satisfying. <div><br /></div><div>There is some genuinely moving and somewhat serious moments, that are immediately followed by amusing and crass dialogue. But, its in there, just enough to ground the characters and the journey they all go on. Bottoms is that film you’ve wanted to see but didn’t know you needed, we were all due this ridiculous teen comedy.</div></div>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-88760902745708619312023-10-30T22:38:00.001+00:002023-10-31T22:42:47.907+00:00Poolman - BFI London Film Festival <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgosX_srZqT_0EjhoVXq8K1z5X2oKiX5AXQeTtM3Ejdkvo8iydlZmTOoIH1UHDMLuX01-B82j1gAFZxgS9m3Ta8i22PTrpSSFQmM3rXOOuRLgVDJvOHeqBBaSiuHk1zdNSnrc06Nrua3ygfs_h6bdpKmSJ3tLPukWqjvKGkXSHiXEAk2zHQaRwBj50ifmWW/s893/Screenshot%202023-10-14%20at%2023.38.34.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="893" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgosX_srZqT_0EjhoVXq8K1z5X2oKiX5AXQeTtM3Ejdkvo8iydlZmTOoIH1UHDMLuX01-B82j1gAFZxgS9m3Ta8i22PTrpSSFQmM3rXOOuRLgVDJvOHeqBBaSiuHk1zdNSnrc06Nrua3ygfs_h6bdpKmSJ3tLPukWqjvKGkXSHiXEAk2zHQaRwBj50ifmWW/w640-h282/Screenshot%202023-10-14%20at%2023.38.34.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>A detective, stumbles onto a case that will change him, his friends, and the town he lives in. The story has been done to death, yet we keep watching them. The characters make the story and if the central lead is compelling, charming, or corrupt enough, we’ll keep on watching. We’ve grown to enjoy the same old same old and the predictability. Yet, <i>Poolman</i>, Chris Pine’s directorial debut, was met with far less favourable reactions, despite following this exact ‘winning’ formula. But there’s still some joy to be had from this everyman turning detective story. </p><p>Darren, a pool cleaner with a strong sense of community, stumbles right into the middle of a considerably sized conspiracy involving LA’s water supply. Hot on the trail of who he believes is responsible, he finds himself being made the patsy for murder. With the help of his friends, therapist Dianne and out of work director Jack, they’re on the case to get to the bottom of what’s really going on. Even though no one asked them on the case in the first place!</p><p>Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/10/poolman-bfi-london-film-festival-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>Filmhounds.</b></a></p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-23365916646711238192023-10-25T00:00:00.001+01:002023-10-25T00:00:00.150+01:00Cat Person<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHD0XwcuunWc2VoTyRzSPT2wJB3srSLXHbLcejdiNv4J0ZXlKJJr3m4ehxXCHIHsD9TBl99Rmk1jfYYp_haBDWUrX-RpjgeooV4Btah5OFZfzwiMItC-hqbm11vILzdtjGWCrcS089xmIUwecE7VEFr8ZrCJaJSvaFvGa433mVD0iT3eNfdkeOVO7Di69T/s882/Screenshot%202023-10-14%20at%2022.55.27.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="882" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHD0XwcuunWc2VoTyRzSPT2wJB3srSLXHbLcejdiNv4J0ZXlKJJr3m4ehxXCHIHsD9TBl99Rmk1jfYYp_haBDWUrX-RpjgeooV4Btah5OFZfzwiMItC-hqbm11vILzdtjGWCrcS089xmIUwecE7VEFr8ZrCJaJSvaFvGa433mVD0iT3eNfdkeOVO7Di69T/w640-h282/Screenshot%202023-10-14%20at%2022.55.27.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>Dating can provide some of the most ridiculous, excruciating, and horrific stories. There are endless possibilities where dating stories can take you and <i>Cat Person</i> is both just one in a million and a story that really nails down the intricate thoughts and feelings one can feel in the moment. The flirtatious beginning to the absolute insane climatic end, <i>Cat Person</i> explores the paranoia that comes with dating and the gut instinct that something is just not quite right.</p><div>College student Margot meets Robert, an older guy, at the cinema where she works. They start texting, fun and flirty messages and she is soon attached, despite a few odd moments with him. Her best friend, and near recluse, Taylor, thinks there’s something not quite right with Robert. However, Margot still decides to continue the relationship. But soon things take a turn, causing Margot to sink into paranoia, believing she is isn’t safe.</div><div><br /></div><div>Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/author/katiehogan/" target="_blank">Filmhounds</a>.</div>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-32230619840520159092023-10-09T00:41:00.000+01:002023-10-09T00:41:01.413+01:00The Royal Hotel - BFI London Film Festival<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdmMkYbNX9nh4WNOHS1XHDERh_1Rl4fvf_rvQlc2_VQlVGIjJ6GSJgVz_bau_Kl9EpslqqhVcVdbodWZCiBbRN8eANJl0AyWnqRiCvsHFgHrRZT8GKF0T5ZMdZB6YcgXuHQvzk1kOKNg8PUUsu_GPmi5NCHqw3jdZYc7_2YbQW5r5GqsmTUM8meLUZXLhw/s893/Screenshot%202023-10-08%20at%2023.54.21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="893" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdmMkYbNX9nh4WNOHS1XHDERh_1Rl4fvf_rvQlc2_VQlVGIjJ6GSJgVz_bau_Kl9EpslqqhVcVdbodWZCiBbRN8eANJl0AyWnqRiCvsHFgHrRZT8GKF0T5ZMdZB6YcgXuHQvzk1kOKNg8PUUsu_GPmi5NCHqw3jdZYc7_2YbQW5r5GqsmTUM8meLUZXLhw/w640-h280/Screenshot%202023-10-08%20at%2023.54.21.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>When we see two women with backpacks in the middle of nowhere, the assumption is that we are about to watch a horror film. With one friend lusting for adventure and the other keen too but far more cautious about their surroundings. Director and co-writer Kitty Green sets us up to both show that horror doesn’t have to be displayed on screen and steers clear of a predictable narrative. The result is a highly tense thriller that has your mind racing throughout. </p><p>Friends Liv and Hanna run out of money while travelling in Australia. To make some cash before resuming their grand adventure, they take jobs at a remotely located bar. Quickly assessing the situation, the more than rowdy regulars and the ‘culture’ of the town, Hanna wants to leave. The more open to anything Liv however wants to stay. After one too many uncomfortable incidents and altercations, the tension that Hanna feels surrounding them, comes to a climatic breaking point.</p><p>Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/10/the-royal-hotel-bfi-london-film-festival-2023-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>Filmhounds.</b></a></p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-35445563083509192502023-09-28T22:01:00.001+01:002023-09-28T22:01:18.884+01:00The Retirement Plan<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_fOu29opt_NS94w1a1bgjja97DxLtkxJZ9mbLk_XmiEHNt2lBZVpY7CHToEoQUjjZl0zAgADfCp1aXTnxlJOh8msSN9Wq6AVEwA47NDuFGPEOvnExHxA6vw2RUpo4iYptXABc34IX82wOL2s7Kl69nU9XCPel5UKc5oMOkueIkgKJaKizuOoc32o1UEJ/s892/Screenshot%202023-09-28%20at%2021.38.22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="892" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_fOu29opt_NS94w1a1bgjja97DxLtkxJZ9mbLk_XmiEHNt2lBZVpY7CHToEoQUjjZl0zAgADfCp1aXTnxlJOh8msSN9Wq6AVEwA47NDuFGPEOvnExHxA6vw2RUpo4iYptXABc34IX82wOL2s7Kl69nU9XCPel5UKc5oMOkueIkgKJaKizuOoc32o1UEJ/w640-h282/Screenshot%202023-09-28%20at%2021.38.22.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>A crime thriller starring Nicolas Cage as a beach bum with a secret government past sounds enticing enough. There are most likely going to be entertaining fight scenes, amusing dialogue, and no doubt another iconic look created for Cage himself. Unfortunately, <i>The Retirement Plan</i>, slips into the worn-out predictable film category where there is very little to redeem itself. </p><p>After getting caught up with dangerous criminals, Ashley and her daughter Sarah seek out help from her estranged father, Matt. But when crime boss Donnie and his henchman Bobo catch up with them, Ashley soon finds out that her father had a secret violent past she knew nothing about.</p><p>Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/09/the-retirement-plan-is-filled-with-cliches-predictable-dialogue-even-the-fight-scenes-are-unimaginative/" target="_blank"><b>Filmhounds.</b></a></p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-31938656057554279872023-09-13T16:36:00.000+01:002023-09-13T16:36:13.317+01:00A Haunting in Venice<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBryZaEDl4BVI3AchnDxaPF1-m0UO6iYz2SN1Lbao1r9cwQ0I6egA98IVS8tPFKxn_py5u8yX6xcqs5d-O7eVQCB6JrtFns43W2qV5cIm9fdlZUviJy9SA6_TgmfLDbxf4OYcMs8wxzCxKJIJTQHXzpOrTCy3mhSxnOBQfdzdalWqAUPqBP_csJYDILLjq/s886/Screenshot%202023-09-13%20at%2015.04.41.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="886" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBryZaEDl4BVI3AchnDxaPF1-m0UO6iYz2SN1Lbao1r9cwQ0I6egA98IVS8tPFKxn_py5u8yX6xcqs5d-O7eVQCB6JrtFns43W2qV5cIm9fdlZUviJy9SA6_TgmfLDbxf4OYcMs8wxzCxKJIJTQHXzpOrTCy3mhSxnOBQfdzdalWqAUPqBP_csJYDILLjq/w640-h280/Screenshot%202023-09-13%20at%2015.04.41.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>Murder mysteries will never die. There will always be another gruesome death, a new case, a new set of suspects, and of course a detective to solve the crime. Although <i>A Haunting in Venice </i>is very, very loosely based on Agatha Christie’s <i>Hallowe’en Party,</i> basically only using some character names and the extremely bare bones of some of the plot, it makes for an exciting new prospect. With such a loose adaption, you have no idea what to expect, making this a fresh take on Christie’s classic. </p><div>Its 1947 and Hercule Poirot has retired to Venice but his solitude is interrupted by the arrival of an old friend, crime writer Ariadne Oliver. She persuades him to join her at a séance to help her debunk the medium, Joyce Reynolds. But when it is revealed that someone in the house was previously murdered, followed by another supernaturally charged murder, Poirot is forced to take the case and find out if ghosts really do exist.</div><div><br /></div><div>Full review over at Filmhounds <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/09/a-haunting-in-venice/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</div>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-18846015236534726662023-09-11T10:10:00.002+01:002023-09-13T14:48:32.979+01:00Daliland<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjae-U3F_Lp8IQqMIwwqViJ_tZ8t9JJgSF4PUyUQ7V1mFBugU8MrS1nPlALUhoJAcvmhlXSsGtaRpZMMnwqq4omycaJQhbxOgy-mYdgZgl-6BVsNxV_mrMTzevAM5TvD-cp-3BCCabhEBKjCFLuMm1SW2D0lAC0o2C9hGJhcN9cn0CqygykJJUzP7IVzK2s/s894/Screenshot%202023-09-10%20at%2021.59.05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="894" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjae-U3F_Lp8IQqMIwwqViJ_tZ8t9JJgSF4PUyUQ7V1mFBugU8MrS1nPlALUhoJAcvmhlXSsGtaRpZMMnwqq4omycaJQhbxOgy-mYdgZgl-6BVsNxV_mrMTzevAM5TvD-cp-3BCCabhEBKjCFLuMm1SW2D0lAC0o2C9hGJhcN9cn0CqygykJJUzP7IVzK2s/w640-h282/Screenshot%202023-09-10%20at%2021.59.05.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br />
When a film centres around a specific time for a prolific person in history, there is a danger that the film will feel restrictive and have precious few areas to explore. With little over 90 minutes, we are given a look into the last years of world-famous Spanish surrealist artist, Salvador Dali, but not focusing on his final works, ailing health, or a closer look at his relationships with his wife or band of followers. This is a biopic but through the eyes of someone who knew him for a short while. Those biopics that want to delve deep but never quite go as far as you would hope. However, there is a great performance from Sir Ben Kingsley to revel in.<div><br /></div><div>Full review over at Filmhounds <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/09/daliland-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</div>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-82257927520327145502023-08-23T13:27:00.007+01:002023-08-23T13:29:18.593+01:00Theater Camp<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJTJPv8j3vV9emAxf1fEbmz9FM__s4ipZxLTXc7XANU97xQljBYMn2giu5887cs5S-pR2KIDprbuCY66mFaIPiCr60psytfVHBgdZTTyyj_7QJ8syyrzrKe46LWY6NHdro4MTKrKdOFx33XJdrJ2hGkYGWzjor1tl8DK2pm4mfuG3_NUWXwRU9vjgozAO/s890/Screenshot%202023-08-18%20at%2012.35.42.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="890" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJTJPv8j3vV9emAxf1fEbmz9FM__s4ipZxLTXc7XANU97xQljBYMn2giu5887cs5S-pR2KIDprbuCY66mFaIPiCr60psytfVHBgdZTTyyj_7QJ8syyrzrKe46LWY6NHdro4MTKrKdOFx33XJdrJ2hGkYGWzjor1tl8DK2pm4mfuG3_NUWXwRU9vjgozAO/w640-h282/Screenshot%202023-08-18%20at%2012.35.42.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
There are those who love theatre and all that it entails and there are those who literally live for, breathe for and eventually die for the theatre. The latter group would no doubt have gone to some kind theatre camp and honed their craft, found their passion, met their crowd, or had their hopes dashed. A mockumentary-esque film following the teachers and students as they get through 3 weeks of absolute organised chaos sounds like it could be uplifting and potentially hilarious. Filled to the brim with stereotypes and incredible talent, Theatre Camp is both exhausting and at times, heartwarming. <div><br /></div><div>When the beloved founder of AdirondACTS, a theatre camp in upstate New York, ends up in a coma, her clueless social media focused son Troy is sent in to keep the camp running. But with the camp in financial difficulty, Troy, along with the chaotic mix of eccentric and loyal teachers, they must find a way to keep the camp open and the debut of a brand-new musical have its night on stage.</div><div><br /></div><div>Full review over at Filmhounds <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/08/theater-camp-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</div>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-13224273209167430362023-08-21T11:30:00.002+01:002023-08-22T22:01:47.628+01:00Fool's Paradise<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic6k1pQ-PYIPCMtGqwDnwAi6UqF1noleAcHaq1UWzpY5Yjyb5KzqEHVBuiuWeQ8sVq-SvUNzoq4DDnPA-41scltVyZflG0Snh1058hpkAeKmqmz-dXJvtEG0eXT8D0eLDQOtfI2E_yP1hVAlPdlTahiHnu9TZGZa8t5YOQxmL1qcQM0x8v7qldheWHTaXt/s891/Screenshot%202023-08-18%20at%2012.29.34.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="891" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic6k1pQ-PYIPCMtGqwDnwAi6UqF1noleAcHaq1UWzpY5Yjyb5KzqEHVBuiuWeQ8sVq-SvUNzoq4DDnPA-41scltVyZflG0Snh1058hpkAeKmqmz-dXJvtEG0eXT8D0eLDQOtfI2E_yP1hVAlPdlTahiHnu9TZGZa8t5YOQxmL1qcQM0x8v7qldheWHTaXt/w640-h282/Screenshot%202023-08-18%20at%2012.29.34.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>We’re no stranger to the darker vapid self-serving side of Hollywood being portrayed on screen so any new film that aims to have a fresh new take will pique interest. Charlie Day’s directorial debut wants to be said new fresh take, and although delightfully satirical, it doesn’t quite hit the heights you want it to. However, it is immensely entertaining, jarring, uncomfortable and feels all too near reality, plus the blend of darker jokes and basic slapstick actually works well. </p><p>An adult John Doe, with the mental capacity of a 5-year-old is abandoned in downtown LA. He is spotted by a Hollywood producer as he happens to resemble a notoriously difficult method actor. From this moment, Latte Pronto, is born. Dragged through from one ordeal to the next, one minute the talk of the town the next a disgrace. And all the while accompanied by his struggling publicist, Lenny, who seems just as clueless as him.</p><p>Full review over at Filmhounds <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/08/fools-paradise-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-91136631062392753782023-08-09T10:30:00.002+01:002023-10-04T10:56:30.611+01:00New Life - Fantasia Film Festival<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh5sN7fSghv2KEpurDdy8WmaEUBWsT15SIpxv6jiy9QuOYGLdxun03htPWYnamiF0U0S1cgKn8OnM8v20tsnRL5qlxkDAZldEEpcz7BEc3RR52toKo2RXyXvxmIa3icuDKfpSWYxUVVnTdq5AQ9NLd_MKoD01dMhgHva1ByhoDPP03hkmVnfQSQ-A_3m5P/s885/Screenshot%202023-08-08%20at%2012.37.00.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="885" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh5sN7fSghv2KEpurDdy8WmaEUBWsT15SIpxv6jiy9QuOYGLdxun03htPWYnamiF0U0S1cgKn8OnM8v20tsnRL5qlxkDAZldEEpcz7BEc3RR52toKo2RXyXvxmIa3icuDKfpSWYxUVVnTdq5AQ9NLd_MKoD01dMhgHva1ByhoDPP03hkmVnfQSQ-A_3m5P/w640-h282/Screenshot%202023-08-08%20at%2012.37.00.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>With every story about a contagious disease, there’s a survivor and a pursuer. You can expect the story to one of two ways and neither has a pretty end. <i>New Life </i>literally breathes fresh air into this familiar set up. With a solid cast and decent central characters, there is something intriguing and terrifying to be absorbed by. Yet, the film can’t shake off its own confinements. With such a potentially big story, the film feels contained despite there being multiple locations with both main characters on the move. </p><p>A young woman, Jessica, escapes a mysterious facility and goes on the run. Determined to get as far away as possible from those who held her captive, she meets kind strangers who help her along the way. Meanwhile, an agent, dealing with her own issues, is assigned to bring Jessica in at all costs. But as times ticks by, the stakes of the pursuit take several dark turns with devastating consequences.</p><p>Full review over at <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/08/with-a-solid-cast-and-decent-central-characters-there-is-something-intriguing-and-terrifying-to-be-absorbed-by/" target="_blank"><b>Filmhounds</b></a>. </p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-44553857890858127892023-08-01T12:46:00.001+01:002023-08-08T12:49:50.002+01:00Blackout - Fantasia Film Festival<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTp6U3SV6VoO5Db2bA3s-MeZYfd4TtBkrtAIQVNMbiUQCyXSeaxxvYQTtRJcmtubYMXMl104AWUaQRDEFOiAoSVa-AzjQZu7dw6og2j3F6oQRDNw96PP41xkGlIv_2O3I8GicvgockRMbAZwlDYpYYvkaciIpbDPdXiNgaAFp-x2p8ceR4OLKOvMKze6RR/s893/Screenshot%202023-08-08%20at%2012.26.21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="893" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTp6U3SV6VoO5Db2bA3s-MeZYfd4TtBkrtAIQVNMbiUQCyXSeaxxvYQTtRJcmtubYMXMl104AWUaQRDEFOiAoSVa-AzjQZu7dw6og2j3F6oQRDNw96PP41xkGlIv_2O3I8GicvgockRMbAZwlDYpYYvkaciIpbDPdXiNgaAFp-x2p8ceR4OLKOvMKze6RR/w640-h280/Screenshot%202023-08-08%20at%2012.26.21.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>We’re no strangers to the supernatural in film and we have all definitely been exposed to a typical creature feature. Trying to find a fresh new angle on a subject that has been made countless times before is a difficult task but writer, director and producer Larry Fessenden has possibly found a way to do so by way of a character study and dark self-discovery in <i>Blackout.</i></p><p>Full review over at Filmhounds <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/2023/08/blackout-fantasia-film-festival-film-review/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a></p>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5217262268598852479.post-90579610536538828682023-07-20T17:30:00.001+01:002023-07-20T17:30:00.145+01:00The Beanie Bubble<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQu9VkqjioFjy0HNko-WKkTJU_G78N3_EDxsN-V4HF03sdZaKUkjTRe9M2mgyh8cBoW5wscze5fzUdY4_ITCdYUwrNeY9cJ3c7IrobQBye3Yd6zM8Ycxu9ENYmzZcYfDqge90MZ439O7_93y5-9kcIUkxY-GmVuPhYTwAGUTuAth-rCvuPGCcR2oXCAg6J/s889/Screenshot%202023-07-19%20at%2023.10.33.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="388" data-original-width="889" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQu9VkqjioFjy0HNko-WKkTJU_G78N3_EDxsN-V4HF03sdZaKUkjTRe9M2mgyh8cBoW5wscze5fzUdY4_ITCdYUwrNeY9cJ3c7IrobQBye3Yd6zM8Ycxu9ENYmzZcYfDqge90MZ439O7_93y5-9kcIUkxY-GmVuPhYTwAGUTuAth-rCvuPGCcR2oXCAg6J/w640-h280/Screenshot%202023-07-19%20at%2023.10.33.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>This is the year of the ‘product’ film, with several films about the origins of a particular product being explored. <i>The Beanie Bubble</i> fits very nicely between <i>Flamin’ Hot, BlackBerry</i> and <i>Air, </i>moving from the 80s into the 90s and banking on nostalgia to make us want to find out exactly what happened to the Beanie Babies bubble. Back in the mid-90s, you were either a collector or you knew a collector, there was no escaping the beanies and that inviting TY logo. <div><br /></div><div>Behind every great man, there’s always at least three women that he’s standing in front of. There are always a trinity of women, each having propped the man up, in a relationship with him or created ideas that he had stolen, <i>The Beanie Bubble </i>tells the story of the three women in Ty Warner’s life and how they helped him become a billionaire.</div><div><br /></div><div>The full review is over at Filmhounds <a href="https://filmhounds.co.uk/author/katiehogan/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.</div>Katie Hoganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01176992567322682222noreply@blogger.com