The Afternoon Movie: The Phantom Tollbooth

I think it's time to go back to the 70's and experience the weird and wonderful world of number, letters, time and learning lessons while having fun of, The Phantom Tollbooth.

I don't actually remember the first time I saw this action into animation film. I don't even recall if we taped it and I re-watched it all over again and again or it was TV quite frequently. I know in Uni, someone mentioned something about time and started sing the song from the film, then I found it all on Youtube and sat there and watched the whole thing.

The strange but brilliant film came to my mind again, this time because something at work made me think of 'The Demons of Ignorance'.

The 1970's live action and animated American film, adapted from the novel of the same name by Norton Juster, starred Butch Patrick of The Munsters fame.


The film begins with our hero, Milo, returning from school bored of learning and bored of everything else and as he speaks to his equally bored friend on the phone, queue a giant mysterious box landing in his living room. This is THE tollbooth.

After a brief introduction and very little information, Milo is instructed to pick a destination and be on his merry way. For the purpose of this journey he becomes an animated version of himself and brilliant. Anyone watching it for the first would think the artwork looks tired and dated and in fact the animation studio that made the film closed down immediately after the release of the film. The film was a success so the closure had nothing to do with the film.

Milo drives his little red sports car along the crazy roads, passing through towns and cities such as, Expectations, Dictionopolis and Digitopolis. Every destinaton and character Milo encounters seems to either give friendly advice, hidden with life or academic help or deter him from his path. Mostly the former.


This is essentially a road movie to teach children that they can learn in a fun way and the more knowledge you have the more confident (and happy) you'll be. The other lesson is instead of being bored, come up with a plan or idea and have an adventure, but that really is sugar coating it.

As well as interesting characters, such as Tock, the watch dog who saves Milo near the start from The Doldrums, a place where you end up if you stop thinking, is dog with a giant alarm clock in his belly. He teaches Milo not to waste time, as time is a gift. This the point I should mention that there a few songs in the film but they are brilliant and I think the animation is great, there is even a reference to Dali's melting clocks.

The plot of the story comes to shape when Milo meets the two kings. On his way through their kingdoms hes noticed that everything is confusing and makes little sense. The reason for this is that King Azaz and his brother the Mathmagician argued over what was more important, words or numbers. They asked their younger sisters, the Princesses of Rhyme and Reason and they said they were equally as important as each other. The Kings did not like this answer so banished them to, The Castle in the Air. Milo convinces them both that he needs to bring the Princesses back. The road trip then turns into a rescue mission with some learning along the way. Milo has to get through 'The Mountains of Ignorance' which are inhabited by the demons of ignorance. Milo literally has to fight his demons to get to the castle.

The films boasts a large host of smaller moments too, such as the the conductor of the skies, Croma the Great who actually conducts the morning and evening skies. Another small moment is in the Words Market, there is stall called 'Half Baked' ideas which I thought was a nice touch.

Unfortunately this film was never released on DVD in the UK but it can be enjoyed in US and on youtube for all to see.

I think my next step is to read the book as its such a brilliant story. The author was influenced by Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland and none other than the Marx Brothers. Watching the film, you can definitely both influences.

Next time you're bored and think you have nothing to do, don't lounge on the sofa, unless you want the tollbooth to land.

It's All About The Schedule

I have to thank my sister a thousand times for last week. I feels like it was ages ago now seeing as I am a tad late with post this week, apologies all round. Since my birthday, in fact a bit before that, I have been quite busy.

I've started German lessons as work so Tuesdays basically do not exist. I've been trying to be proactive so I've booked a refresher driving lesson for this month so I won't be yelled at by my parents. Long story there. I have been catching up on Haven so I was ready for season 5, actually so many new shows are starting plus the returning few. I have also been clearing out my room, sort of. I've tried to get rid of things but every time I look, its all papers and scrapbooks and useful bits. So, I suppose you can kind of excuse me for the lateness?

Last week, actually my birthday was week before, anyway, I asked for three things for my birthday. A milk froather, which will be purchased soon, a bottle of Kahlua and BFI membership.

With that membership I was able to get the tickets and screenings I wanted, yes, of course I am talking about the return of BFI London Film Festival. I was and still am beyond excited about this event. Roughly 2 weeks of films all around London. I have been to the festival every year since 2006 when I went to see Steve Buscemi give a talk AND walked on the red carpet for the first time to see his new film, The Interview, at the time. I love the festival and scream with excitement every year when the catalogue comes out.

I have to admit, last year was amazing, I think I saw 6 films and I reported on all but one I think. I had an amazing time. This year I was unable to go wait in line for the tickets as I was at work and booked the wrong day off. My lovely sister, who I thanked at the start, went in my stead. I'm sure she didn't appreciate me sending texts saying 'I wish I was there' as the reply was usually 'I wish you were too' as in, 'I wish I never had to do this'.  But good news, I paid for a ticket to go with me to a screening as a thank you. I have 5 films booked and I am bursting at the seams I am that excited to go.

I made a schedule, like I do every year. This was to help my sister and because it looks great. Apprently, other people in the queue have their own type of schedule.

If you live in London and don't work insane hours and if you can, book a ticket to something, you'll enjoy it. BFI

Welcome to Hill Valley

I've been to The Ink & Paint Club and The Grand Budapest Hotel and now, I've been to Hill Valley, thanks to the Future Cinema and Secret Cinema gang.

They truly have out done themselves this time. When the Back to the Future tickets went up for sale no would have guessed the trauma when the event was cancelled for the first few night (rumoured there were rights issues) and the amazement when people saw the pictures, they built an entire town, Hill Valley.

Everyone knew where it was, the clock tower could been seen from far around. Apart email from all the prospective stores in the town, all set in the 50s, just like the film. We all got dressed up in as 50s gear as we could and adopted our town identities.

The journey began when we were told to meet at a certain station, from there we were greeted and shown the way by several people with red sashes. Our first marker on route was a sign saying 'Hill Valley 2 miles'. This was the exact same distance that Marty McFly himself from the film had to walk when he had to first crashed landed in the time machine in the 1950s.

We could see the Clock Tower in the distance and the excitement mounted. We were greeted by other towns folk, police mixed with real security and the shown through the Peabody's Farm, complete with adorable sheep, goats and a folk band singing about guests who stood out. Luckily we decided not to bring our phones so we got to bypass the 'checking in phones and cameras' part. Although at the end of the event, there wasn't a huge queue to collect them.

We walked part way round the perimeter of the town with a 'Hill Valley 1 mile' sign to guide us. We were on Sycamore Street in no time, walking past the giant billboard for Lyons Estates and happy to acquire some beers for the walk around the houses. Each house was dressed up as one of the main characters homes, including the Tannens, McFlys, Baines' and the Doc's house. Past the latter house, we entered into the town, just like the film, complete with green grass in the square, high school, diner, many shops and of course the gigantic clock tower. I could hear 'Mr Sandman' play as we stepped in.

Although no phones or cameras were allowed to used, we were allowed to buy (from the friendly sellers in the town) a disposable camera which, I'm glad we bought as there was so much to see. Who knows if the photos will come out.

I was so excited. I know it sounds cheesy but it was like walking onto a film set. Every time one of the main characters were spotted it was great, mostly because we can interact with and not be told to go away. I really wanted to go to the funfair and eat candy floss, my brother in law wanted to eat the cheeseburger at the diner and my sister wanted to go the Enchantment Under the Sea dance. We did it all and more.

We saw the Texaco boys play games with some guests and later up in the main stage singing 'Goodnight Sweetheart'. We got told off for jaywalking and got talking to a very enthusiastic lady (part of the event). I convinced my sister to go on the ferris wheel first - before eating. It was an amazing view and even though I got a little freaked out when they were taking people off for the next ride, I still loved it.

We had a look in the school and watched one of the bands who were 'auditioning'. Looked in on the shops next door and bought some Tab, a clear version of Coca Cola. Not to my taste but it was all in the fun of the 80s. Throughout the evening 50s tunes were playing out on the 'radio' but not long before the film, the 80s burst out in the form of skateboarders and rollerblades high-fiving the crowds.

We ate out burgers in the diner and they weren't half bad but my sister was a tad disappointed with her milkshake. I was just excited t see Lou and Goldie Wilson, the mayor to be of the town, in the diner.

In fact whenever a character, from the 50s, appeared near by it was just exciting. All through the evening we were trying to spot the Doc and Marty. At first it was difficult as there were plenty of people dressed up at 80s Marty. But, once we found a spot on the green, were about to set off to look around more, we spotted him, acting just like Michael J Fox. It was Marty! Doc appeared later, wondering around the town followed by a huge group of followers.

We made it to the Enchantment Under the Sea dance and my sister and my brother in law got to dance to Earth Angel, just like they did at their wedding a few weeks ago. It was very crowded though, we stayed for a couple of songs then moved on. In the cinema they were actually playing the film, The Cattle Queen of Montana and the radio was broadcasting to the whole town, they were even taking guest callers. I was going to say something but I missed my chance.

The post office was also fully functioning, with post men and women delivering messages to guests. Behind the 50s stores and hairdressers, we ventured into the 80s. A bar serving cocktails and a live band. There was even a small pool table and they were selling Marty McFly's signature red puffer jacket. We bought cocktails and enjoyed them on the green while we watched the Hill Valley parade.

The Mayor and the radio DJ introduced Marvin Berry and the Starlighters where they played some familiar tunes, including The Power of Love, with Marty on lead guitar. It was a fantastic intro to the film. The fun didn't stop there. Scenes from the film were played out in front of us live, including scenes featuring the time machine and the Doc, zip wiring from the Clock Tower. It was just brilliant. Loved every minute of it. And I got to eat candy floss.

August Watch List

1. Guardians of the Galaxy 5/5

Not ashamed to say it, I absolutely love this film. I think its the best Marvel film so far and I even think it beats Avengers, its really that amazing. The lead up to this film from rumours to the first trailer, everyone was saying that this was going to be Marvel studios' big risk. Having smashed the US and UK box office, that risk paid off, ten times over. Unlike the other Marvel superhero films, GotG is different, not only is there only one human in the film (technically) but its the most sci-fi and set entirely (except the first scene) in space, meaning, not on Earth. It is also set apart from all the other films, which is refreshing, apart from the orb bit that sort of connects to the others, but I don't want to give anything to those who like surprises. Peter Quill (the always likeable Chris Pratt) is abducted as a child and raised an thief, basically. Apart stealing an orb on what he thinks is your average job, he meets and gets arrested with Gamorrah, an assassin daughter of Thanos (look him up, he's s big player in the Marvel universe), Groot a planet like alien and Rocket, the result of an illegal genetic experiment, thugs for hire. In prison they meet Drax the Destroyer, a maniac. That rounds up the gang. Outside of this, Ronan the Accuser wants to blow a planet. There reasons behind it but if I explain anymore of the plot, it might take the fun out of watching the film. The film is directed by James Gunn and he's made the most entertaining film I could have hoped for. I should mention the soundtrack as it is very different. Songs from 70's and 80's feature and they are perfectly out of place it works so well. The soundtrack also plays a part of Peter Quill's character as the tape he listens to was gift from his mother who died at the start of the film. To summarise, the film is better than anything I expected, its a true sci-fi movie that just happens to be part of the Marvel universe. 5/5

I discussed a theory with my brother in law as to why GotG has been so successful and why everyone loves it and agreed with this. The story is about a team, a group, all with back stories and they are all very different. The team are given equal screen and story time and they even all progress, with hope for the future. As a team they can play off each other and actual dialogue is exchanged. There is not a wasted moment in the film. This also explains why Avengers was so successful too, it wasn't just all your favourite superheroes hanging out, it was a team working together, playing off of each other with great results. More GotG please!

2. Mood Indigo

First thing to say about this film, the trailer, though delightful is misleading. The film is about weathly inventor of weird things, Colin who falls in love with equally weird and wonderful Chloe. But not too soon after love and marriage, Chloe is taken ill after a lilly starts to grow in her lung. Based on the novel, Froth on a Daydream by Boris Vian, Michel Gondry co-wrote the script and directed this. I expected the film to be similar to his previous whimsy, visually pleasing and slightly depressing with a small consolation at the end. All his films play out this way (except Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, which has, I think, I slightly happier end). But Mood Indigo is a film of two halves. The first half plays out this way but the announcement of Chole's disease will result in death, the film takes a nosedive into utter despair. Its not just Colin who suffer, all the characters do and suddenly the whimsy animatronics that surround his home and the film become tacky and out of place in such a depressing storyline turn. I was really upset by this sorrowful end. What can I say? It just got worse. The first part being so fun and promising and even funny but then nothing. I really hope Gondry's next film is back to the old forumla. 2/5

3. Divergent

Based on the novel of the same name by Veronica Roth, this film plays out pretty much how honest trailers says. Having read the book and finally seen the film, I can safely say that it feels like Roth read The Hunger Games and thought 'I can do that'. Then changed the setting and added confusing 'faction' names just to annoy her reader and got it published. The book read like she was looking for a movie deal. The film, is actually slightly better but if I hadn't read the book, I would have been very confused. Tris is a teenager who lives a in 'dystopian' society where the people are divided into 'factions'. Groups that are identified by one characteristic; Erudite the intelligent, Candor the honest, Amity the peaceful, Dauntless the brave and Abnegation the selfless. When teenagers are 16 years old, they have to choose which faction they want to be in. First they take a test which tells them which to pick but at the ceremony they can pick whatever they want. Tris discovers she is divergent, meaning she has more than one characteristic. She leaves Abnegation to join Dauntless where she finds out that there is sinister plot afoot. Same old same old. Its a pity the concept is kind of a rip off as the cast aren't terrible but Shailene Woodley who plays Tris is not a strong lead. But its great to see Kate Winslet play a villain. 3/5

4. The Pretty One 

Twins are always a fascinating, especially to those who aren't. I thought this film was going to be about sisters, one bitchy and outgoing, the other meek and sensitive. The film starts of stereotypical and after a very dramatic moment, the story becomes about loss and identity - a much better concept. Laurel is the meek twin who stayed at home, Aubrey is the twin that left and got her own life. After they celebrating their birthdays, Aubrey is killed in a car crash. Laurel survives but everything (even she does for a bit) thinks she's her sister after she got her hair cut. Hurt by the lack of impact she had on everyone (no one speaks at the funeral, not even her Dad who she cared for all these years), she leaves and starts living Aubrey's life but half as herself. Its difficult to explain but she goes through an identity crisis as well as mourning her sister. Its a surprisingly emotional film and its really well done. Zoe Kazan, who plays the twins is also brilliant and perfect in the dual roles. 4/5

5. That Awkward Moment 

I hate to admit this but this stereotypical film about three single guys or rather one guy whos marriage just ended and two really single guys isn't that bad. All the characters develop smoothly and gradually and don't just suddenly stop being a***holes because even though I agreed with them on some things, they are a***holes. The female characters in the film are also well done, they aren't needy, they don't even pursue the guys in a horrible awkward way, the guys come to them because, shock moment, they get along. In other films like this, the girls are always so bland and are only like because they are so pretty, the female characters have personalities and lives away from the scenes with the guys. Some plot elements are predictable and annoying but I suppose they are in there to fill out the film. These films are perfect. 3/5

6. Snowpiercer 

As many other have been, I have been waiting months for this film. There has been so much controversy surrounding this film, that it was too long or too violent or just not good at all, the buzz has just made me want to see it more and more. A science fiction furturistic film that warns us about the environment and over crowding, the Snowpiercer is a train with 1001 carriages. After trying to battle global warming, there was back lash causing the entire planet to be covered in snow and ice. The last survivors live aboard the train, but as with things there is class system. The passengers in the front carriages live a life of luxury while the tail carriage live in literal squalor. The great but horrific speech from Chris Evans' character near the end sums it up. Based on the graphic novel by Jacques Lob and Jean-Marc Rochette, the film was co-production between US and South Korean directed by Bong Joon-ho. The film doesn't quite follow the novel but in a way its better. The film follows all the passengers in the tail as they revolt and make their way to the front to confront the mysterious inventor of the train, Wilford. The film is brutal and bleak but the characters (and cast) are great and even though I thought the ending was just plain awful, the film, the story, is brilliant. 3/5

 

We Ain't Never Had An Actor Like Him

I'm sure a million other blogs, newspapers, websites and zines are doing this right now but I wanted to add my appreciation to the gigantic pile. Robin Williams, one of the most hilarious actors out there died. What with PSH passing, Bob Hoskins and now Robin Williams. Too many great actors leaving us.

Here are my top 5 favourite characters Williams has played. Of course the Genie from Disney's Aladdin is amazing but I'd have a separate list for all his role in animation. He was the only funny part of Happy Feet (terrible film) and as I said, he will always be the Genie.

1. Mrs Doubtfire - 1993

Every child growing up in the 80s/90s would have seen this brilliant and actually sad film. Its about divorce, a man trying to find a job and a father who really wants to spend as much time with his children as possible. Its also about hating Pierce Brosnan from a young age and loving the moment Doubtfire throws fruit at him. Based on British writer Anne Fine's Madam Doubtfire, this really is implanted in everyone's mind when it comes to comedy and men dressing up in drag. And yes, the whole time? The whole time he was dressed as an elderly woman. Dude really did look like an old lady.

2. The Birdcage - 1996

Playing Armand, partner to Nathan Lane's Albert, this could not have been a better paring. These two together made a hilarious play, a brilliant film, to me its all about the two together and their relationship. A gay couple pretending to be a straight couple (Lane in drag) to make a 'good' impression on uptight married couple to their son's girlfriends parents. Screaming, singing, awkward conversations, people pretending to be something they aren't and drag numbers.

3. Good Morning Vietnam - 1987

I saw this film some years ago and this was only having seen Williams in purely comic roles. This was a great story based on truth about radio DJ Adrian Cronauer who broadcasts in wartime Vietnam. It's perfect balance of funny and tragic moments. Williams actually and its not hard to believe, improvised most of his radio broadcasts in the film. Even if you've not seen the film, you will know 'GOOOOOOOOOOOD MORNING VIETNAM!'

4. Jumanji - 1995

This is a classic children's film which is faced with being remade at the moment. Williams is Alan Parrish all grown up after being trapped in the board game for 26 years. Its fantasy mixed with adventure and real terror - they are chased by a lion, gigantic mosquitos and harassed by monkeys and they survive an earthquake and monsoon, all in one day!

5. Death to Smoochy - 2002

Williams plays a washed up bitter children's entertainer and basically, not the nice guy in this story and its brilliant. He's naturally funny and usually plays nice or wise characters but Rainbow Randolph is mean, bitter and twisted. Throughout the film he is trying to frame Smoochy the Rhino, his rival played by Edward Norton. An underrated film, directed by Danny Devito no less. If you've not heard of this, go watch it now!

Another few mentions would be the sort lived sitcom, The Crazy Ones, Hook, World's Greatest Dad and One Hour Photo and I know everyone hates it but I loved it when I was younger. It was like seeing the cartoon jump of the page to make a tacky full functioning Sweet Haven. I loved Popeye and though Williams was brilliant, right down to the over stuffed forearms.

As a parting gift here's the musical trailer: Popeye (1980)

July Watch List

Alas, another quiet month for films. Even renting, borrowing and buying them. I was hoping for Boyhood, Finding Vivien Maier and some others would be on here but didn't watch them in time.

1. How To Train Your Dragon 2

How to train your Dragon snuck up on people when it was first released. My sister and I wanted to see it because it dragons in it and of course we liked the story. We fell in love with the film, as did many others. In fact HTTYD is Dreamworks animation's most successful films (rating wise mostly), this is even after all the Shrek rubbish that they've churned out and the Madagascar films too.

Based on the successful children's books series by Cressida Cowell, the second film the planned trilogy, takes place 5 years after the events after the first film, all the main teen characters are all grown up. Excellent sign that there is already character development. Berk has fully embraced dragons and all is well, except there is trouble on the horizon in the shape of Drogo who commands a dragon army (in chains) and has set his sights on conquering the dragon master (Hiccup) and all the dragons on Berk. Oh and if you've seen the trailer, Hiccup's mother makes a dramatic entrance. Its a beautiful film. I hate to say it but the sequences between mother and son flying are (sorry I said this) breath taking. Everything about this film ticks all the boxes, the characters are brilliant and as I've said, they actually developed. The dragons are amazing and all unique, each with their own quirks and secrets. The film even goes dark which is brilliant but I can't say more than that. Only down side, Cate Blanchet's accent is the worst I've ever heard. Hint, its meant to be Scottish. That aside its an amazing film. If Dreamworks keeps producing films like this, Pixar AND Disney better think of something decent quick, no darn Planes crap and run of the mill safe Frozens.

I saw this film twice I loved it so much. Within two days. 5/5

2. Mighty Aphrodite

I've had this Woody Allen film on my to watch list for ages, finally got round to watching it the other day. It was not what I was expecting. I thought it would be funnier, with more tragedy. Instead it was a very run of the mill story, apparently inspired by Pygmalion (My Fair Lady). Allen is Lenny, married, second time to Amanda, she wants a child so they adopt. When the child, Max is older, and they family have had some good times, the married couple go through a bad patch. Lenny then becomes obsessed with finding Max's mother who turns out to be dumb porn star/hooker, Linda (Mira Sorvino). She has the worst voice but well done to Sorvino to making her funny and annoying at the same time. The story is constantly interrupted by a Greek chorus which seemed pointless and stopped the flow of the story. Its not one of his best. 2/5

3. Girl Most Likely

The trailer looked amusing for the film about a New York socialite who was once a promising playwright then hits rock bottom after she loses her job and her boyfriend breaks up with her, oh and she pretends to commit suicide. She is then forced into the care of her mother and live in New Jersey. Kristen Wiig is always great to watch but with all the other characters having their own overwhelming issues and annoyances her story is drowned out and made to look like 'she just made the wrong decision'. Although, there are some funny scenes and heart warming moments, it all felt a bit too generic. 3/5