Merry Christmas Everyone!

Merry Christmas ethnically confused fans! Hope you all have an awesome day and eat lots of turkey/goose/gammon/chicken whatever you're eating. Also try some brandy butter, its amazing!

This is me in the past....

 

This is me in the present ....

As for the future, I couldn't bring myself to try and create what I would look like!

Merry Christmas!

December Watch List

Last of this year's Watch lists.

1. Great Expectations

As expected, fabulous looking costumes, a great cast and reminder to me of what the end was. BUT alas, although it was many times better than the BBC effort (last year/this year, not sure) it still didn't have anything new to say apart from that Helena Bonham Carter made an excellent Miss Havisahm and Jeremy Irvine needs to be in more good films (note: Now Is Good is NOT a good film). The classic Dickens coming-of-age story of Pip a young orphan who inherits a living from a mysterious benefactor and is swept away to London. This, unfortunately, won't be the last adaptation of the novel but it would be nice to see a less known novel made into a film or better yet a TV series. 3/5

2. Rise of the Guardians

Based on a series of children's books, the Guardians of Childhood, the story brings the existing guardians, Father Christmas, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and the Sandman together to fight Pitch, better known as the Boogeyman.  They need another to join them in the fight against Pitch so they enlist Jack Frost but of course, for story purposes he is reluctant. Reading the story made it sound naff, I wasn't that impressed by the trailer as it seemed to be all about Jack Frost, who is definitely not the best character, that would be Sandy (the Sandman) who doesn't talk, just creates amazing dreams, especially at the end. To be honest all the characters have likable quirks, even the Australian Easter Bunny. The story on the big screen isn't naff at all, its exciting, the story is fast paced and the villain is an actual threat. Although its in 3D, not needed by the way, the film is pretty spectacular, I really hope there is a sequel, and I don't say that often.  4/5

3. Damsels in Distress

Seen by very few but loved by those who did. It is strange and i can see why, if anybody who did see it, dislike it. It's very odd. The main characters have a strange understated way of talking and usually that would really annoy me but I'm starting to warm up to Greta Gerwig more and more. Shes funny in this but I'm not shes meant to be. Described perfectly as 'deadpan hilarity' the story is about a group of 'damsels' attending college who run the Suicide Prevention Centre and about their various distress' (the boys). It's difficult to explain anymore than that as there is no real steady plot apart from Violet, the leader, wanting to start a new dance craze, the Sambola. The cast actually perform the dance at the end, its brilliant and understated, the film, not the dance. The dance is good though. 3.5/5

4. Side by Side

The documentary discusses one of the major issues in the film industry, can film survive the digital wave. There are so many interviews with all the best and brightest cinematographers and directers and each of them has something interesting to say, even George Lucas is annoying but he was one of the first to film digitally. Not only is it interesting for those tech enthusiasts but its also a history lesson in how things were done back way when. Not the film studies kind of history lesson either, the interviewees talk about how they worked. Everyone is different. Most of the English directors and DoPs are actually really funny and all the Americans are set in an argument and all the Europeans are very serious about their craft. It's a great documentary, but if you're looking for a conclusion you will be disappointed. There is talk that all the interviews that were cut will be released at a later date as well as longer cuts with people who were in the film.  I saw this documentary at the BFI as I thought there was no UK release date, luckily its out in February.  4/5

5. The Amazing Spiderman

So they rebooted Spider Man, it's only been 10 years since the first one came out but Spider Man 3 was terrible I can see why they were calling out for another. In a way I thought the first Spider Man was still pretty good. But this film is indeed amazing. I don't know the comics that well but I knew that Peter Parker made his own spider web machine, which I preferred. I also preferred the casting for Uncle Ben and Aunt May as Martin Sheen and Sally Field were more like family to the character and less annoying. Andrew Garfield is a fantastic Spider Man and is extremely believable as the intelligent, science nerd turned vigilante. The story was good too, just enough origin mixed in with present day plot. Love the reboot!  4/5

World Film Challenge - Completed

Back in May I set myself the following challenge:

'I have undertaken a challenge to watch a film from as many countries as possible in 180 days (6 months). #WorldFilmChallenge'

I know the challenge ended in October but I thought I would round off the year with this final tally. I watched 21 films from around the world (but really 19 as UK and USA don't count). I did have a few more lined up and some that I did watch after the deadline but to be fair to the challenge the final tally in October was 21.

I am going to set myself another challenge for 2013 so watch this space!

Below is a list of the films included in the challenge!



1. Greece - Dogtooth (2009) directed by Yorgos Lanthimos
2. Italy - Gomorrah (2008) directed by Matteo Garrone
3. Ireland - Ondine (2009) directed by Neil Jordan 
4. Norway - Troll Hunter (2010) directed by André Øvredal
5. Scotland - Franz Kafka's It's A Wonderful Life (1993) directed by Peter Capaldi 
6. Taiwan - The Wayward Cloud (2005) directed by Tsai Ming-liang 
7. Spain - Jamon Jamon (1992) directed by Bigas Luna 
8. China - The Curse of the Golden Flower (2006) directed by Zhang Yimou 
9. South Korea - The Good, The Bad and The Weird (2008) directed by Kim Ji-woon 
10. Denmark - Flame and Citron (2008) directed by Ole Christian Madsen
11. Lebanon - Where Do We Go Now? (2012) directed by Nadine Labaki
12. Canada - Cosmopolis (2012) directed by David Cronenberg 
13. France -  Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky (2009) directed by Jan Kounen
14. Australia - Sleeping Beauty (2012) directed by Julia Leigh 
15. Mexico - Miss Bala (2011) directed by Gerardo Naranjo
16. Indonesia - The Raid (2012) directed by Gareth Evans 
17. New Zealand - Love Story (2012) directed by Florian Habicht 
18. UK - Broken (2012) directed by Rufus Norris
19. Sweden - Snabba Cash (Easy Money) (2010) directed by Daniel Espinosa
20. Greenland - The Village at the End of the World (2012) directed by Sarah Gavron
21. USA - Celeste and Jesse Forever (2012) directed by Lee Toland Krieger 

Films watched after the deadline:
 
Germany - The Wave (2008) directed by Dennis Gansel
Wales - Very Annie Mary (2001) directed by Sarah Sugarman

A Time Of Cold Weather, Eggnog and Christmas Specials

I'm sure everyone is thinking what I'm thinking, Christmas movie time! The films you either only buy this time of year or the ones you bought ages ago and only watch this time of year!

I have a set of films and TV specials that I watch, only during Christmas and it does not include 'It's a Wonderful Life' or that insufferable film 'Love Actually'. No this is a list, that is probably similar to other lists, but includes Irish reindeer, Halloween characters, adults acting like children and John Lithgow. It's not Christmas without Lithgow.

1. Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas

A classic tale of Halloween Town taking over Christmas with Jack Skeleton as Sandy Claws. This film could also be a Halloween film too but I always associate it with Christmas as I only got to see the whole thing last year. I usually miss the beginning and get caught up. The songs are catchy, as my mum pointed out the other day and the animation magical!

2.  Robbie the Reindeer - Hooves of Fire

Robbie, son of Rudolph, arrives in the North Pole to join the other reindeer and Father Christmas. He has to prove he is worthy of being part of the team and has to beat Blitzen, the villain, in the ultimate race. There are two other episodes but the best is Hooves of Fire as its more related to Christmas and its Ardal O'Hanlon as the voice of Robbie. Plus there is a hilarious seal moment.

3. Flint Street Nativity

My friend first showed this to me at University just before Christmas and I couldn't stop laughing. All the actors, mainly all known comic actors, play children who are performing the Nativity for their parents. There isn't really a main plot but all the characters have something going on. Some of the girls keep switching friends, one angel is determined to play Mary, one of the three kings is trying to hide his lisp, the inn keeper is trying to impress Mary by gluing his hair in place and the star is looking for a lost lizard. I'm not sure if it gets repeated each year but I know its on youtube.

4. Father Christmas/The Snowman

 Some more animation! These two stories are the real classics as everyone remembers the snowman and how sad the ending is. It has the famous image, as famous as E.T and Elliot clycing through the air in front of the moon, the image of the snowman and James flying through the snow. The simplest ideas have the most effect. Father Christmas is more amusing, he grumbles and makes a fuss, a typical old man. He decides to take a break and go on holiday to Scotland, France and Las Vegas but he makes time for Christmas Eve. I loved watching these near Christmas when I was young.

5. Santas Claus: The Movie

Another favourite from childhood, in fact nearly all of these films on the list are from childhood. I used to watch this gem from the 80's on a loop, usually on Christmas Day when my sister would open our stocking presents. A few times I would sneak downstairs in the early hours and put this on. My family would come down for breakfast and see me asleep on the sofa watching this film. I watch it every year at some point during Christmas, sadly on youtube as I still haven't bought the DVD. Why? I have no idea. Its the story of how Santa came into being and how through the ages children have seen him. In the present time, Patch (Dudley Moore), the smart elf leaves the North Pole and ends up in business, by mistake, with a disgraced evil toy manufacturer, John Lithgow, and with the help of an orphan and  a street urchin Father- I mean Santa saves the day, with help from faithful Patch.

6. The Muppets Christmas Carol

Saving the best til last, the ultimate Christmas film. It has Muppets, its a classic Dickens tale and it has Micheal Caine in it, what more could you want. I watch this every year without fail too, usually Christmas Eve or after I've made the biscuits. Surprisingly its similar to the original A Christmas Carol and is one of the better adaptations, just because it has Muppets in it. The songs are great too, especially the opening number where we meet Scrooge, played to perfection by Caine. All the Muppets are used to play counterparts which fit so well, such as the two old men, Staler and Waldorf play Jacob and Robert Marley and Fozzie plays Fozziwig. And don't forget the ice skating penguins. What are they doing in Victorian London? Who cares they are ice skating penguins!



Hope you enjoy some Christmas films and TV!

An Unexpected Return to Middle Earth

I didn't think they would make the film, not yet anyway. Then I thought Peter Jackson would never make it. Then when the project kept changing hands I thought this film CANNOT be made without him!

I remember listening to the 1968 BBC radio recording cassette tape when I was younger, yes I lived in a time where we listened to tapes not CDs. It was my favourite story tape, we, my sister and I listened to it so much that we wore it out! When The Lord of the Rings came out I was excited by disappointed that The Hobbit wasn't made first. I thought the same with The Chronicles of Narnia, why do they never make The Magicians Nephew? Its' the best one, after The Voyage of the Dawn Tredder of course. Anyway, after I saw the first LOTR film, I was hooked, obsessed with it. It was difficult to find people who loved it as much as me, especially as I went to an all girl's secondary school. They all read Heat magazine and I read Empire. But still, I couldn't get enough of Middle Earth adventures.

When The Hobbit was finally announced I wasn't sure if I was excited as it a part of my childhood. But they made Tintin and I loved that, they kind of ruined Narnia but I still have my BBC TV series so that's ok and The Great Gatsby looks amazing (ok that wasn't childhood but it's my favourite novel). In short I saw The Hobbit and LOVED IT!

Lord of the Rings fan, Tolkien fans, Middle Earth enthusiasts have been waiting since 2003 for The Hobbit to be made and at long last, its here. First off, the film is amazing BUT I do actually have a couple of qualms with it.


It's just like how we all remember Middle Earth where we left off in LOTR, except this time its not all about Elves, Men and Hobbits, its about Dwaves, who, let's face it were the most under used race in the first trilogy, but in this story, the first story, they are the main focus and it's hilarious. I think the fact that there are so many of them in one room/scenes together its amusing. The dwarves make the film and also distract from that one scene that I hated. It should have been cut out as it felt like a LOTR reunion. If you see the film, you'll know the one I mean, it features two characters that don't even feature in the book (The Hobbit that is).


All the Dwarves, Dwalin, Balin, Kili, Fili, Nori, Dori, Ori, Gloin, Oin, Bifur, Bofur, Bombur and Thorin Oakenshield are amazing, each has an obvious personality and each has their time on screen, except Bombur who doesn't speak in this film, just eats. Of course my favourite is Kili and Fili and I think the camera's favourite as they are the most seen on screen. Thorin (Richard Armitage) is perfect as the sullen, warrior determined to reclaim his kingdom from Smaug (who you don't see until the end) the Destroyer, the dragon. I should mention Martin Freeman who is great as Bilbo. After seeing his performance as one of my childhood character favourites, he really is the only person I can think of for the role.

My other qualm I can't go into the detail as it may spoil the film, but it involves a severely minor character and strange subplot that wasn't necessary, the film is a master peice without it. But I have a feeling its in there to pad out the films. By the way, whoever was getting excited anout there being three films, this included me at first, I have no idea what the hell is going to happen in the third one, as the end of the first is half way through the story anyway. There are glimpses of characters to come throughout the film, which was exciting and there is even a poster of Gandalf talking to a giant bear, that is the next film though, a fantastic character too.

The film is lighter, as it should be, than LOTR. This was afterall meant to be a children's story.

Anyone who tries to bait me and say 'the film was too long, it was rubbish' don't say it on here or anything associated with me or I will bite back and get angry. If you have a valid argument, have with me in person, that's much more cilvilised.

An amazing film, now its only another year to wait for the next installment.

November Watch List

1. The Master

To some this film is known as 'the Scientology' (and I was just spell checked to make sure it had a capital S), to others its the sixth film from Paul Thomas Anderson and to critics and film fan everywhere it is a highly acclaimed masterpiece. For me, its the return of Joaquin Phoenix on the screen, not as a crazy hobo beard character. Although that documentary was hilarious. This film is not about L.Ron Hubbard and Scientology. Although there are comparisons this film is about Lancaster Dodd (Phillip Seymour Hoffman)who is the charismatic leader/author of The Cause. After Naval veteran Freddie (Joaquin) wonders onto the leader's boat, he becomes enthralled by the man and his following, but their relationship ultimately unravels. People have been split over this film, mostly because of the build up. It wasn't as in your face as some campaigns, the film sort of crept up on us. It's an amazing film and the cast are incredible. Most of the applause will go to Hoffman but I think, not bias opinion, Joaquin Phoenix deserves praise for his portrayal as broken, animalistic, lost Freddie. I think I need to see it again just to take it all in but as I saw the film screened in 70mm I'm not sure a second view would measure up to how amazing it looked. It felt like it was actually from the 50's. A masterpiece. 5/5

2. Rust and Bone

If I could just play the trailer in this section, it would sum up the beauty and brilliance of this film. Based on a collection of short stories of the same name by Craig Davidson. In short its the story about an unemployed single father and ex-boxer/kick boxer who falls in love with a woman who trains killer whales. In truth they start to fall in love til very late on in the story. Stephanie, the whale trainer has a terrible accident that completely ruins her life. When I saw the trailer I thought she only damages her legs but the scene where she wakes up to see her lower parts of her legs missing is unbelievable horrific. Its after this accident that they begin to connect. The scenes under water are amazing, but the scene that touched me the most is when Stephanie is standing in front the whale tank and she starts the routine she used to do and whale responds and it still remembers her. Although Marion Cotillard's name is everywhere on this film and she really is great in the film, I see this as Matthias Schoennaerts' story. His character has been left with his son by the mother, who you find out later was using her son as a drug mule. After being taken in by his sister, he takes various jobs to keep afloat but he soon starts to take part in illegal street fighting. The fights are brutal but aren't seen as terrible because Stephanie approves, even helps out with sorting the bets. The film is amazing and I can definitely see some awards on the horizon or its criminal. Then again, Drive was the best film of last year and snubbed completely. 5/5

3. Spaceballs

I love an old spoof as much as the next person but really Mel Brooks, do you really have to have THAT many Jewish jokes in the film? Apart from that, the film was good and I did laugh out loud, especially at Rick Moranis as a sort of piss take of Darth Vader. The fact it was a spoof of a collection of sci-fi films was enjoyable. I particularly loved John Hurt's cameo in the diner scene, brilliant. The story was basic, the best way to make a comedy, Princess Vespa is rescued after she runs away from an arranged marriage. Lone Starr (a very young looking Bill Pullman) and his buddy Barf (a hald man/dog John Candy) rescue her and her android friend and an adventure ensues. They meet a disturbing yoda type wise creature (Mel Brooks) who teaches them about 'the schwartz' (annoying) and there is a satisfying ending. Not my favourite, nothing beats Dracula: Dead and Loving It, but a pretty good film. 3/5

4. Gambit

I love how the lion is on the poster yet only seconds in the film. Gambit is the long awaited film written by the Coen Brother but not directed by them. Shame. Gambit is a remake of the 1966 version which the producer, Mike Lobell saw at its premiere in London. After several revisions, cast changes, script changes, the Coen Brothers script triumphed. The story is about art curator Harry Deane who works for the god awful Lord Shabandar. To exact revenge on him, he devises a scheme involving his friend the Major who paints copies of famous artworks and rodeo queen, PJ Puznowski. The film feels set up to be this great caper but in fact its very subtle the whole way through, that is, until we see a lion as the 'security' of an art gallery. The cast is good, the script is better. When watching the film, I did laugh out loud several times but I couldn't help but wish the Coen Brothers had directed it. It would have be so much better, more Coenesque, maybe more violent and possibly not a 12A. Saying this, the scenes at the Savoy were pitch perfect, Colin Firth is brilliant as Harry Deane as he changes from room to room not wearing trousers. See it just for that scene, or best wait for DVD. 3/5

A Necessary Culling

Just seen how I have neglected my blog, over a week without a post, that's bad. I have a very good excuse though, I have been working non stop. But other than that I've been absorbing everything film.

This post will appeal to those to have huge collections of things, mainly movies, and have run out of space, meaning their addiction or collections cannot grow.

My November Watch List is looking bare, I only have two films on it and its already halfway through the month. Next week I look to rectify this but going to the cinema at least three times, or if I'm lacking funds, I will watch some films that are hidden away in my collection that I still haven't seen.

Last weekend, actually the weekend before that too, I began sorting out the boxes that were in my cupboards. Filled with things I couldn't sell or give away, but I had kept because I thought I could use them as props or for nostalgic reasons. It was time to get rid of everything I could. I seem to do this every so often. Get all my things out and then take out a fraction and put everything back into the cupboards and draws. Usually I am successful in this culling but now that its basically just paper and old magazines, I am stuck with the things I horde. I know my parents do the same but they never get rid of anything. I volunteered to do a necessary culling for them, but they declined.

When it comes to DVDs, books and mugs, I can't part with anything. But this time I had to, not to sell or anything like that but simply because there is no room at the inn anymore. I have stocked up all walls and shelve space. Boxsets have had to be moved upwards, sewing machines* have been banished to the loft and magazines have been thrown away (not Empire or Little White Lies). I looked through every book, decided if it would go or stay, same with DVDs. Mugs weren't going anywhere, I needed them in my argument with certain people who don't understand or appreciate a decent sized mug. They all have a purpose.

These are currently where I can store them. No more space, its insane. TV box sets are at the top too, double stacked.

In the end, only two DVDs went, 'See This Movie' and the Czech version of 'Living In Oblivion' (I didn't realise it was a Czech version, I bought the English one ages ago). The latter has Steve Buscemi in it so there was no way that going if I had only one copy, but i had two so it could be spared. As for 'See This movie', it had the promise of a great story but in fact it was just utter crap. Too long, not funny, bad acting, literally no proper story. It tried to make a point about filmmakers and didn't make a point about anything. Or maybe it did, that anybody can make a cack film. I really want those two hours I wasted, back.

The rest of the collection is safe, for now, until the next cull.

I may need more shelving. And a place to put the shelves. Maybe I should invest in a Beauty and the Beast type library, but with DVDs, that would be magical.

*I have one, its just the way I was writing.

October Watch List

Sorry for the delay! Also there is a number missing, Frankenweenie bu it had its own post.

1. Queen of Versailles

I love the fact that documentaries are in cinemas more often now, seeing The Imposter on the big screen did have an impact. But with this one in particular, I would have been happy seeing this on TV. Saying that, the film was really good. It was about billionaire David Seigel and his wife Jackie and how they planned to build the biggest family home in America, using inspiration from Versailles itself. But when the recession hits, everything goes wrong financially, David has trouble keeping his business' afloat and they are forced to put their dream home on the market unfinished. The film is brilliant in the way it depicts all the family and the couple especially. There is a particular moment where Jackie, after the recession, goes back to her home town to see old friends. At the airport she hires a rental car and asks who her driver is. The man behind the counter looks at her disgusted and confused. She then realises that a driver doesn't come with a car. 4/5


2. All in Good Time

Based on the play, Rafta Rafta which played the National Theatre, the story is about the troubled relationship between Eeshwar and his son Atul. Atul and Vina are newly weds but are having trouble consummating their marriage. Atul's interfering father doesn't help. Its a short story and I can see why it would have made a better play. There are plenty of opportunities are long played out scenes that have been cut down to make it work for a film. The leads are great, wished we could see more on them on screen but the story was just ok. Funny in places but overall frustrating. At least there is a satisfying ending. 3/5

3. The Cabin in the Woods

I said I wouldn't see this in the cinema as I would get freaked out but after many people reassuring me I rented it and watched it late at night. Not a cool move. Luckily I was wrong and was scared some of the time. To be honest the only original reason why I wanted to see it was for Franz Kranz, actually Fran Kranz of Dollhouse fame. I needed to see Topher on screen again. You think you know the story, well you don't, as the whole this is a massive twist that the audience is in on, the characters are on the outside. Excellent concept. 5 friends go to stay in a cabin in the woods, that just screams horror film, strange things happen and monsters are released, really scary monsters. But they are being watched but an unknown company who are in charge of making a ritual happen. They need five sacrifices, the slut, the athlete, the scholar, the fool and the virgin (well sort of). Its a great story, the ending is a tad off but it has funny moments which make it all better, plus it has the key ingredient, Franz Kranz. I demand more Kranz!4/5

4. Taken 2

As there was nothing else at the cinema my friend and I watched this. It was unbelievably bad. The script was ridiculous and they stole the soundtrack from Drive. Complete crap. As far as story went, the people he killed last time, well they're families came after him and kidnapped him and his ex-wife. He got away quickly but kept leaving her, everywhere. Seriously, he left her so many times. It was up to the daughter to sort of save the day. The film was about an hour and a half but only 10 mins of story and actually felt like an hour to watch. Terrible film. 1/5 is being generous.

5. Casa Me Di Padre

Loved it. It was funny, it had my favourite Mexican actor, (Gael Garcia is awesome), the theme song was hilarious, it was in Spanish and it was like watching a telenovela. The story is about Armando Alveraz who has to protect his father's ranch from an evil drug lord. Fantastic idea, but the story wasn't super. Predictable, in a way and I thought the actress was annoying. When I heard about this film from Will Ferrel's biggest fan, I couldn't believe it but really wanted to see it as it was such a bizarre idea. I'm hoping that this film will encourage more people to see foreign films too after seeing it. Subtiltes do not get in the way of a film, this proves it to those doubters. 3/5
 
7. Lockout

Prison in space, that's right. If Luc Besson is involved, there has to be some kind of sci-fi/violent element to it. Framed criminal Snow has to go into the space prison to rescue the president's daughter who was captured after a prison riot while on a visit to see how the inmates were being treated. Great action film and I liked the idea of a prison in space, why did no one think of this? Guy Pearce is on top form as the severely sarcastic Snow, while he is not matched well with very annoying Maggie Grace who just needed to shut up for 80% of the film. The prison inmates were also very good, genuinely freaking scary but guess what they were all Scottish. Surprise surprise, Hollywood need criminals, and British actors fit the bill but these are your swarve villians these are hard as nails crazy thugs, so naturally they thought make them Scottish. It's really offensive that Hollywood need criminals, make them English, Irish or Scottish. Why not Welsh? That would be a change. Other than that, great! 3/5

8. Skyfall

Bringing Bond back! That's what it felt like anyway. First I was worried that the 12A rating was going to mean less violence but it was actually not bad at all. Loved the new (but old) characters, such as the amazing Ben Whishaw as Q and Naomi Harris as, well her name isn't revealed until the end so I won't spoil it. There is also a death that I have waited to see on screen for years but again I cannot say because its a glorious spoiler, but it was worth the wait that's all. Hints to the past 50 years of Bond was not over pratronising but welcomed. I am not a fan of Bond but I did love Casino Royale. Quantum of Solace was utter cack and Skyfall has redeemed the Bond name. It sounds strange but also loved how London was very much involved with the story. Skyfall itself, the place where Bond grew up was a nice touch too. In the trailers and teasers, it looked like it was a secret mission or something but instead, the family home. It gets completely destroyed at the end which is a shame but an amazing film. Bring on Bond 24. 4/5

9. Friends with Kids

  From the trailer I thought this film was going to be really funny, alas, it wasn't. The two funniest actors, Kristen Wiig and Jon Hamm were under used and their characters were lame. Chris O'Dowd should never do an American accent EVER. The two leads were good but everything about this film was just too serious. Everything 'go real' when everyone had children, everyone was so depressed or angry and I just couldn't enjoy this film. The story, two friends who are perfect for each other but aren't attracted to each other want a child so decide to have one together. Everything actually turns out fine until they start dating again. Not great but not awful either. 2/5

Monsters, Pets and Classic Movie Elements

I could have called this post, 'I really want a dog like Sparky' but I thought better of it.

Frankenweenie, the latest offering from the master of weird and wonderfull, is the first black and white animated feature to be made. It is also the second film with the same subject made by Burton. He made a live action short in 1984 which was meant to be shown with another disney film but was cut because the tone didn't fit with the feature.

The other day I saw Frankenweenie and absolutely fell in love with it, and Sparky. Tim Burton's latest animated tale is, obviously, inspired by and in some ways follows the story of Mary Shelly's Frankenstein. But simply its about Victor Frankenstein, a boy who loves making home movies and experimenting in his attic. He also loves his dog Sparky. After a tragic accident he decides to bring him back from the dead after being inspired by his teacher. The experiment is a success and they are reunited again. But with every tale like this, someone finds out, Edgar the class hunchback creep who blackmails Victor into telling him how he did it. From there all hell, in a way, breaks lose. Other children start experimenting with lost pets and things they find on the street. There is a riot, a fire in a Windmill and further strange occurrences.

This, like Nightmare before Christmas and Corpse Bride, is typical Tim Burton. Apart from the animation style and the way characters look, this film feels more like his live action films. There are plenty of hints and nods to classic monster and horror films but there are also hints to Tim Burton's own films. The houses look like the ones in Edward Scissor Hands, the windmill that features quite prominently reminds of the one from Sleepy Hollow. Victor's talents in amateur film making is a hint to Ed Wood. The entire black and white tone of the film makes the film feel like a 50's horror B movie. These hints to the classics will be lost on children, like the moment when the poodle next door gets an electric shock and ends up with a familiar streak in her poodle hair do, resembling Frankenstein's bride. Little moments like that make the film a work of genius.

There is one downside to this amazing film, the fact it will become a cult film in the wrong way. Just like Nightmare before Christmas became an iconic film for emo kids, turning Jack Skeleton into a tacky mascot. I saw that film for the first time, the whole way through last year and its a brilliant film that was ruined by this emo-ness. Corpse Bride went the same way for a while but then disappeared. I can enjoy this film for a while before its over blown and hopefully safe from the emo kids or whatever is left over.

The amount of work that went into making each puppet always amazed me. There were 12 puppets for Sparky made and 17 Victors, over 200 puppets were made altogether. Another interesting fact, Crew members with pets that had passed away were invited to submit their names to the production design team. Many of the tombstones in the pet cemetery actually bear the names of real pets.

It was hilarious and really sad but can enjoyed by all, Frankenweenie is definitively on its way to being a classic animated  black and white film.

Below are some alternative posters for the outcome of the dead pet experiments.

Talk About the Money

Another BFI London Film Festival film and my Swedish entry for my World Film Challenge. Couldn't have worked out better.

Apart from having to sit next to one of the most annoying people ever, the man did not spot making strange noises throughout the whole film, the film was a mind blowing thriller!

Snabba Cash, otherwise known as Easy Money is about JW, a clever young guy who attends business school. Coming from a poor background and living a relatively poor existence. He does his best to lead a double life in the upper class areas of Stockholm. After meeting a woman at a party and wanting to continue his expensive lifestyle, he becomes involved with the world of oragnised crime and selling cocaine.

If anyone watched the US version of The Killing, a remake of the Danish TV series, you will know Joel Kinnaman. He takes the lead in this film and its sequel, Easy Money 2, which I actually tried to get a ticket for but alas, work got in the way. Kinnaman is brilliant, surprisingly he plays poor and vulnerable really well. Having to switch from nice guy to drug criminal is done well and I can't wait to see what happens to his character in the sequel and the third part which is apparently rumoured to shoot next year.

Aside from the centre point of JW who just wants money to lead a 'good life', the rest of the cast is quite multi-cultural. From the Spanish prison escapee to the Serbian mob who want him dead and the Arabic wannabe drug lord who entices JW to join his gang as 'the money'.  This film also includes another father daughter theme. One of the Serbian gangsters is left with his young daughter when his wife ODs. Their relationship at first seems like a side note but soon develops into a caring parent child relationship and you start to hope that nothing bad happens to them. If you know what I mean.

The film was a huge hit at the box office when it was first released in 2010 and hopefully will be when it is released over here. Just hope it doesn't take too long as two years was too long. Also, like all hit films in Europe, it is being remade in the US and apparently going to star Zac Efron which is a MASSIVE MISTAKE. He is NOT the actor to take over the lead role.

So expect yet another Scandinavian remake on the horizon. But please, see the original FIRST, it truly is a roller coaster ride.

Broken nose, home, heart, body

Second film of the BFI London Film Festival was the amazing Broken. This is also included in my film challenge and is the UK entry.

Broken, based on a book by Daniel Clay of the same name, this debut centres around a 12 year old girl called Skunk. She has type 1 diabetes and an adventurous spirit. She lives with her Dad, brother and child minder in a cal-de sac where much of the other characters in the story live.

The film starts off with quite a violent scene. As Skunk returns from the shops, she says hello to one of the neighbours, Rick who has learning difficulties, a few seconds later he beaten to a bloody state by another neighbour, Mr Oswald. The reason for this outburst is explained after and becomes a trend in the film. The audience sees the effects before the reason. The story shifts from one cause to the next, depending on which character Skunk interacts with. Whether it is with own family, Mr Oswald and his three awful daughters, Rick, the now disturbed young man and her teacher Mike, who is in a relationship with the child minder. Lines are crossed all over the place but at the end of the day it is about Skunk.

Skunk, played by Eloise Laurance, is brilliant on screen. She plays her character with such ease and honesty. As several other reviews have said 'she's a find' and a sort after actress for the future. The cast is made up of amazing British actors that really do make the film a classic British film ensamble, sort of. Tim Roth as Archie, Skunk and Jed's Dad is a complete opposite to his previous characters. He is seen as the voice of advice and reason throughout the film and the person, I think Skunk trusts the most. One of the last few scenes is heartbreaking when Skunk goes missing and Archie, like any other parent, just doesn't know what to do or where to find her, when she is only just across the street.

There seems to be a theme in the films I have picked, without me realising it. A theme of fathers and children. In Love Story, Florian always spoke to his Dad via Skype about ideas and advice, in this film Archie is a father of two, Mr Oswald is a father of three daughters he can't control. Then the third film I saw, Easy Money, one of the centre characters is a father with a very young daughter who he wants to change for. Films usually focus on single parent families with just mothers, its so refreshing to see something different yet so normal.

Broken is a beyond fitting title as many things are broken throughout, not to mention a few more deaths than I expected in the film. Hearts are broken, homes are already broken and of course the scene where Mike, the teacher, has his nose broken by Mr Oswald.

A truly heartbreaking film with genuine moments of humour. The realistic depictions of families is what sold it for me.

Love, New York and Pink Trousers

Technically this post should be part of the Film Challenge as, Love Story, is a New Zealander film, I think that is the right term.

Love Story was the first film I saw as part of the (long awaited) BFI London Film Festival. This had been the last ticket I bought and I have to admit it was spare of the moment, but I am so glad that I did. Not only was the film just so brilliantly constructed and genuinely funny but the venue, Screen on the Green in Islington was amazing. I had walked past the cinema a few times and had wanted to see a film there for ages and I got my chance.

Before the screening we, the audience, were treated to the director, Florian Habicht introducing his film and explaining a bit of the background. He is a character. Very tall Habicht, dressed in the pink trousrers that appear as if another main character in the film, was very happy to be there. He thanked his friends who had come with him all the way from New Zealand and said how great it was to see his film in big letters on the cinema.

The film, just like the poster says, is about a romance written on the streets of New York, or maybe by the people of New York. After a chance meeting with Masha (the tall Russian woman holding a piece of cake), Florian, who appears as himself, goes out and decided to make a film, a love story. The moments and scenes of constructed romance, a line is later blurred and it becomes hard to tell which is real and which is fictional. Inbetween these moments the film becomes almost like a documentary. Habicht goes out onto the streets and asks New Yorkers what they think should happen next in the romance. One of the star characters in the film, who only ever appears via Skype is Florian's dad. It is in these conversations where a lot of the humour comes out, especially when they share the idea of Marsha eating cereal out of the director's en-caved chest in bed. Florian's dad makes the point that this has never been seen is any film before and yes, he is definitely right. The action is later repeated but the second time around it feels less momentous but this is due mostly to what Marsha says. This when the film took a turn. It becomes confusing about whether these people actually mean what they say. The ending is emotional in the way everyone involved knew this 'romance' was going to end. A ending is obviously constructed but it works so well, the audience doesn't feel cheated at all.

I was glued to the screen the whole time. The film was so well structured and in ways, insightful to the people who Habicht meets on the street. I am not exaggerating when I say how amazing this film is.

After the screening, there was a short Q & A. I only heard one English accent, the rest American. I found this odd. Anyway, Habicht gave a little more insight to the film and its after effects. He said the film was shown to all those who contributed and I think we were all surprised to hear the rude stock broker in the cab that Habicht just jumped into on the spur of the moment, had given it her blessing. Masha had also had a private screening of the film and was happy with how it was completed.

The film is being released in Australia and New Zealand but unfortunately not America. He is in UK now meeting distributors. This film needs to be released here. If there is a screening of it, GO SEE IT!

Here is the facebook link, please have a look:
https://www.facebook.com/newyorklovestory?fref=ts

Closing the Loop

I'm have a sci-fi moment. Actually more like a long moment. I think it started when Rian Johnson first announced he was making a science fiction film.

I am a huge fan of Rian Johnson. If you're wondering who he is, he is the writer director of Brick, Brother Bloom and Looper. Brick is one of my favourite films of all time and a film I wish I wrote. Both Brick and Looper are genre twisting film (Brothers Bloom is a con man film so I haven't quite figured out what the twist is). Genre twisting is the reason why I love the Coen brothers too. Brick was a detective noir story centred arounf high school kids. Looper is a hitman man time travel science fiction story.

TWIST!

But this isn't about Mr Johnson, not today. This is about sci-fi and why I keep coming back to the genre time and time again.

Warning this may sound self indulgent. Whenever I write short stories they always seem to lean towards science fiction or something odd. I can't write a straight forward story or at least I don't think I have written one. Science fiction is about escapism and the imagination (this is just my opinion) and thats what I try to include in my stories. Even though I am currently obsessed with The Good Wife and Boardwalk Empire at the moment I keep writing sci-fi stories. This puzzels me.

I am currently reading Flow My Tears, The Policeman Said by a master of science fiction, Phillip K. Dick. If you don't know him, he wrote Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? which is better known as Blade Runner. Many of his books have been adapted. This book got me thinking about other futuristic and alternative universes. The future doesn't have to be so far fetched as some films make it out to be. This brings me back to Looper. In my opinion this film was a work of genius. The future is believable but also futuristic enough for it be looked at as just a film. Yes I understand people's issues with it such as supporting characters and the lack of their development, BUT I don't understand when people say that 'it didn't live up to the hype'. The film and its makers simply created the film, but they did not market it, that was the distributors job. This is the same thing that happened to Quentin Tarrantino's Inglourious Basterds. But that survived because of the name attached. Whenever I say Rian Johnson, no one knows who is he so hes over looked shall we say and then everyone just says the same old thing. The film did NOT market itself. The film stands alone.

I'm not a fan of those unrealistic future stories and films, in a way they have to be believable. In fairness I researched the film and I know the director's work but I understand that not everyone does that. But I've said it and I'll say it again, just like all those 5 star reviews and good critiques out there, Looper is a good film. But I suppose its more of a film for people who love cinema. Just my opinion.

September Watch List

1. Elfie Hopkins

So, Elfie Hopkins was the subject of a post a while back, it was the flavour of the month, cannibals, which for me is most grim. The story of Elfie, small country town girl and wannabe detective. Intrigued by the new neighbours and the disappearance of a few residents Elfie is on, then off, then on the case again with the help of her sidekick/friend/love interest Dylan. There is a lot more going on in this film that you think. All the characters have backgrounds that are hinted at then never explored. Its frustrating. The film itself isn't brilliant, but I just love its low value. This sort of ensemble would probably do better as a one off TV series. 3/5

2. Killing Bono

No idea if this story is true or not, but in places its quite amusing. But overall, I was really bored. When a film is basically about the downfall of something or someone even when they didn't really have much anyway, is just annoying and depressing. The actors are great but as I said I was just bored. I might have to give this film another chance but it was borderline cliche and predictable. 2/5

3. Made in Dagenham

Based on true events, this story of a group of woman wanting equal pay was exactly what it said on the tin. It was heartwarming and uplifting and almost made me cry. The women fought for justice and eventually got what they deserved even though they had to wait a few more years. It's hard to believe that woman were paid only a third of what a man earnt. Mixed in places with real footage and interviews with the real women involved added a nice documentary type touch that was needed. A great film. 3/5

4. Anna Karenina

I never knew the story of Anna Karenina and even I guessed her fate a mile off I thought this film was amazing. Set almost completely inside and around a theatre apart from a few scenes in a remote house surrounded by fields. The director, Joe Wright used the space brilliantly, using the wings of the stage as the streets outside and transforming the theatre into a racing course. Truly inspired. Apart from the exquisite visuals such as the set and costumes, the acting was good too. Keira Knightly was really heartbreaking as the title role and I actually didn't hate Aaron Johnson too much in the film. I have never seen a film like this, the way it was presented that is. Amazing. But one thing, the ending, like most of Wright's films, the ending was blunt. 4/5

5. The Gay Divorcee

A classic Fred and Ginger film. The first one I saw all the way through actually. Not only is the story quite amusing with lots of misunderstandings and misdirection, but there also some great songs and dance scenes. 'Night and Day' and 'The Continental' (that goes on for a good 15 minutes). The studios said Fred Astaire was no actor, no singer but that man could dance. Kind of true but I think he can sing and act ok. He does an amazing tap dance right at the start of the film just before he accidentally rips Ginger Rogers' dress (really amusing bit). One of the best films they did in my opinion. 4/5

6. Dredd

The future is bleak and violent in this second adaptation of Judge Dredd or is it another attempt at bringing the famous character from the 2000AD comics to the big screen as Sylvester Stallone really ruined it in the 90's. But this film was impressive. I was put off at first by the 3D add on but looking past that, the film tells a good story, unfortunately it bares some resemblance to The Raid, both have stories revolving around tower blocks. The tower block in Dredd is more like a Mega Block housing 50,000 people and is run by the criminal Ma-Ma Clan who are circulating a new drug that slows down time for the user. Its very violent which I enjoyed very much and most importantly Judge Dredd was also menacing and doesn't take his helmet off. Worth seeing. 4/5

7. Lawless

Almost missed seeing this epic film. I am not exaggerating when I say this film was so good it hurts. It had me on the edge of my seat for most of it and I'm not sure why. The story of three brothers who have make a living selling moonshine during prohibition and who then cause a huge fuss when the incredibly creepy and disgusting Rakes (played to perfection by Guy Pearce) starts making things difficult. Humourous in parts which is needed when the film is quite dark and harsh to its characters. Shia LaBeouf has redeemed himself in my eyes after all that Transformers crap and he is back to actually acting and taking good roles. Tom Hardy is superb, his grunting and love of cardigans provides some humourous moments, one in particular when he is told that his Jessica Chastain tells him that she dragged him to the hospital when she found him with his throat cut in a pool of his own blood and simply says 'I thought I walked'. Fantastic acting and a based on truth story to match, thats what I meant. 5/5

8. Bel Ami

There seems to a revival of costume dramas where a young man is at the centre and loads of women surround him. Robert Pattinson is that man in this film. To makes his way through Paris having just returned penniless from the army where he meets an old army chum who gives him a job and from there is meets lots of women who he seduces, has affairs with, marries then seduces again all on his way to secure a fortune, even if he is unhappy through most of it. Based on a book which I'm sure had plenty more in it, but this time I am not bothered. I didn't like any of the characters, I thought they were all selfish and couldn't make up their minds what they were doing or wanted. 2/5

9. Looper

Saving the best til last. People have been torn of this masterpiece. Excellent reviews and then the audience had either loved it or disliked it. The problem with most of the quibbles going round is that the film was not what was adveristed basically. They wanted a fast action filled gun fest or something. Well this is not the films fault, that is the marketers fault, gearing you up for something that wasn't coming. The film is amazing, the concept brilliant, I love the director and know his work well so understand how this works. I would say, yes could have been scene or two shorter and more characters development for a few of the other minor characters would have been good, BUT this film is brilliant. My favourite genre, well subject that I have written about, genre twisting!!! Its not a typical straight forward sci-fi film nor an action film, its better. The actors were awesome, my favourite scene is when the two selves meet at a diner, loved it. Expect another post on this matter soon. 5/5

Challenge Excepted: Indonesia

Back into Asia . . .

A Welsh director, an Indonesian martial arts star and a tower block of violence, it can only be, The Raid.

It had been recommended by many and I finally goto to watch The Raid. And it was exactly what I had expected.

I'm not one for martial arts based films but I do enjoy a good violent thriller, good guys vs bad guys in a the middle of a massive drug ring or business thing. The set up was great, 20 elite cops trying to invade a tower block controlled by the most violent crime lord.

The story is focused on expectant father and rookie policeman, Rama, who, along with a 20 man SWAT team attempt to infiltrate the building. After the set up what follows is many shoot outs, knife fights and good ld fashioned fighting as the remaining SWAT team climb up higher and eventually reach the top.

As with all films about cops and criminals there are going to be the signature details, such as the corrupt cop, the family connection, the one decent guy to helps the good guys, the climatic show down, death of several henchmen and usually, the down played triumphant end. To be honest some of these elements are very much like the newly released Dredd, but more on that later. While reading about the fim when it was first released I was intrigued (and amused) that the directer, Gareth Evans was from Wales and moved to Indonesia after making a documentary. He had to move all that way to make the films he wanted.

After the success of the film there is no surprise that rumours of sequels began, Evans is already in development. Another rumour, also expected, is that there will be an American remake but with Gareth Evans on as Executive Producer there is some hope. But I really don't understand why the USA has to remake every successful foreign film out there. To remake The Raid would be like remaking Let the Right One In . . . oh wait . . .

Anyway I thought this film really stood out and having to read subtitles every now and then really was not a bother. Having said that, martial art movies still aren't my thing but The Raid is my exception.

The Raid made the cover of Little White Lies, if you can get your hands on a copy, its a good read.

End Line: A tower of guns, blood and welcoming predictable story devices

August Watch List

1. Cheri

 Celebrating aged courtesans and their loves. Lea ( Michelle Pfeiffer) has a six year long relationship with Cheri, son of a fellow courtesan. He then marries another courtesan's daughter, arranged by his mother. She disappears to the coast to forget about him. This all happens within the first 20 minutes of the film. The rest of the film was just dragged out and took too long to reach an uneventful conclusion. Based on a novel I have a feeling it would be better to read it. The costumes are amazing though. 2/5

2. Zathura: A Space Adventure

As the poster says, its the same author as Jumanji and in the actual book the brothers who are the focus of this film and book appear at the end of Jumanji. Just like the game Jumanji, Zathura is found covered in dust in the basement of a very old house that looks like it hadn't been touched since the 50's. They play the game and things happen. The first major event being that the house is hurtled into space. But this isn't your average space environment, for one thing the house is partially destroyed and open but no one is affected and they can all breath perfectly. It was a fun film, if a bit limited, as there is only so much you can do in space, with children. No where near as amazing as Jumanji but still a fun film. 3/5

3. Land of the Lost

I saw this film while calming myself down. I was too tired to move off the sofa so ended up watching the whole film, unintentionally. I had avoided watching this film as I knew I wouldn't enjoy it. I was right I did not enjoy this film. I did actually care about any of the characters and I thought that most of the storyline was a massive cliche. There were too many elements to the film and yes I know its about the 'land of the lost' so random things are expected. It wasn't funny, it was unpleasant. 1/5

4. W.E

Directed by Madonna, that was the main pull. After all the bad reviews and talk I decided I should see this, especially as I liked the whole cast. The story seems very one sided, being told from Wallace Simpson's point of view through Wally, a neglected and lonely wife of wealthy British doctor in 1998. I am not 100% sure of the historical accuracy of the film but it was very impressive, especially for Madonna. I preferred the story set in 1998 as it felt more emotional and interesting. The story of Wallace and Edward has been told over and over it was interesting to see a fresh look on the famous love affair. But, it seemed to point fingers at how cold and mean the British were/are. The Royal family shunned Wallace and the British doctor is mean and hateful. Madonna tries to make us feel sorry for Wallace but I really didn't. She gave up everything? What? She had affairs and was a Nazi sympathizer. He gave up a Kingdom, that's far more. A good film but i can't ignore these flaws. 3/5

5. Delicacy

Audrey Tautou hasn't been this good since Amelie. This story is so beautiful and I'm saying that trying not to be cliche. Tautou's husband dies in a sudden accident and she shuts herself away for three years, concentrates on her work, then one day while thinking of her husband randomly kisses her co-worker, Markus. He is adorable in the way he wears big wooly jumpers, leads a simple life and is the nicest guy you've ever met. Gradually she starts to come out of her shell and becomes closer to Markus. The relationship is sweet but its everyone around them that can't understand why she chose him. Why not? That is the question. The film is so easy to watch, which each small event becoming a moment in their relationship where she slowly moves on in the right direction. 5/5

6. The Girl with the Pearl Earring

Finally saw the ending of this film after years of just seeing bits of it. I really thought this film was amazing and I actually thought Scarlett Johansson was more than decent in the title role. Seeing her transform into the painting was so entrancing I understand the long lingering shot, I couldn't tear my eyes away. The story was interesting and made me want to read the book to find out if I had missed anything. Straight forward biopics are becoming too predictable but to concentrate on a masterpiece resulted in a far richer film. 4/5

7. The Eagle

To be honest I only wanted to see this film because Jamie Bell was in it. The story is basic, Roman solider Marcus wants to redeem his family honour by crossing the wall and venturing into the North to find the lost Eagle of the Ninth. He does so with the help of British slave, Esca who he himself was a member of a Northern tribe. The many different tribes of the North are damn scary. With all the Romans putting on American acsents it felt like yet another 'damn the Brits' film, which is very dull. Jamie Bell was good though. 2/5

8. Brave

Like at Pixar films, this was awesome. I was intrigued by the story as I never heard of such a folk tale. The writers had created one from scratch using folklore and other tales which I really enjoyed. Choosing Scotland to be the setting was a welcome change too and I liked the all British and Scottish cast, that made all the difference. I love folk tales and fairy tales so this story just made me want to see more tales like it. I really hope that Disney and Pixar continue this type of story. Aside from the story which was also very funny, the actual animation was breath taking especially the scenery (and the heroine's hair). The montage of the heroine climbing cliff sides and roaming the hills was beautiful. Loved the film! 4/5

9. The Imposter

Doc of the month. This film was brilliant, it had me hooked from start to finish, the story took me over. There are many ways I can say it but that is how powerful this film was. Does anyone remember how engrossing 'Man on a Wire' was? Well this is just like that. It played out like a fictional film and kept you guessing about what actually happened to the real missing child. I don't want to ruin the story as its worth seeing it in full without people telling you bits about it. Just please go and watch it. 5/5

10. Young Adult

Charlize Theron's character is amazingly awful. She has indeed got older but never grew up. She is in denial about everything in her life and she belongs back in high school. She reminded me of a less humourous version of Cameron Diaz's character in Bad Teacher. When she goes back to her old town and sees people from her past it is obvious that she doesn't belong there and maybe never did. Unfortunately though there is no real ending, she does go through a brief transition near the end where she gives a big speech to an old high school, I'll say friend but he wasn't, but by morning she is back to being exactly how she was before. There was no progress. 2/5

Challenge Excepted: Mexico

It's been quite a while since a 'challenge' film was watched but here is the latest, Miss Bala from Mexico.

Described on the DVD case as "a thrill ride" and "a blistering firecracker" I expected this film to be an action film. The cover art was also mis-leading as it featured many explosions and men with guns, with Miss Bala herself standing calmly in the middle in her pagent swimsuit and crown. The film is also called 'Miss Balla: The Bullet Queen' which made me think that this had been altered to appeal to a English speaking country. This was a hsmae because it wasn't quite like the cover and descriptions. It was better.

Loosely based on a true story, Laura is a young woman who wants to be part of the Miss Bala beauty pagent. But after a terrible event at a club she finds herself captured by a violent gang of Mexican drug smugglers.

That is the basic description of the story. What happens after she is captured and forced to do things by the gang leader just gets worse. Not only does she have her family threatened but she is then seen as part of the gang and she has no way out. As the story progresses the film and Laura's world becomes more and more claustrophobic and in some scenes uncomfortable. I don't think the character smiles once in the film, not including the pageant scenes where she barely forces a smile.

The story and characters also feel too close to home meaning that it feels very real and current. It feels a bit like a documentary in a way, apart from the death scenes. The story the film is based on took place in 2008 when Miss Sinaloa, Laura Zúñiga was arrested along with suspected gang members in a truck filled with weapons outside Guadalajara.

The film was released in 2011. That's quite fast for a film to be made and released so soon after the event.

The film was distressing by the end as Laura was powerless. A very good film but not one I would happily watch again.

End Line: Hardly a Bullet Queen, she was a Victim.

The Hitchcock Appreciation Post

Monday 13th August was Hitchcock's birthday and I thought the best way to celebrate one of my icons' day was to go see The 39 Steps in the theatre in London. I had already seen it but it just so happened that my aunt had cheap tickets. And I really wanted to see it again.

I first saw this hilarious play at the  Richmond Theatre and loved how a four people (technically three, one actor plays Hannay throughout) could bring so many characters to life. The play is based on the 1935 Hitchcock film starring Robert Donat. The story follows Richard Hannay who attends a performance from 'Mr Memory' a man who can remember every and any fact. During the performance a gun is fired and he is followed by Annabella Schmidt. She convinces him to let her come back to his flat where she reveals she is a spy and is being followed by an assassin. She says that she has uncovered a plot to steal vital British military secrets, implemented by a man with the top joint missing from one of his fingers, who is the head of an espionage organisation called the "39 Steps".

Seeing a second time around just made me love the play even more, especially as the productions were slightly different. The theatre it is currently being performed is the Criterion Theatre and it could not be more perfect. Not the biggest theatre but it felt as if we just walked in the story. The 1930s music and decor made it feel as we were in that time again, if you get what I mean.

Moving with more Hitchcock related things,Vertigo was recently voted best film of all time in Sight and Sound after years of Citizen Kane taking the prime spot. I have to admit Vertigo isn't my favourite Hitchcock film. Although the poster is amazing, the story just dragged for me. I might have to watch it again and see if I'm wrong. Here is a link to a longer article: http://badassdigest.com/2012/08/01/vertigo-now-the-best-movie-ever-citizen-kanes-run-at-the-top-over/

The last piece of Hitchcock related news is that there are two features about Hitchcock. The first is a biography starring Anthony Hopkins as the great director and will focus on his life while making Pyscho. The second will a BBC production called 'The Girl' and will focus on the obsession the director had with the actress, Tippi Hedren and will be aired later this year, I hope. Toby Jones will be playing Hitchcock and Sienna Miller will be portraying Tippi Hedren.

 To round up this post here are my favourite Hitchcock films are Rear Window, Lifeboat and Strangers on a Train.

Look at This, I've Been Nominated for a Liebster Award

I have been nominated for the Liebster Award by Annie at http://beardtoday-gonetomorrow.blogspot.co.uk. Thank you Annie!

 The rules of the Liebster Award:
1. Each person nominated must post 11 things about themselves.
2. They must answer the questions that are given to you from the person who nominated you.
3. You must then create 11 questions for the people you've nominated.
4. Nominate 11 bloggers and link them in your post
5. Let the bloggers know they've been nominated.

These are the questions I was given:
1. If you could be any animal what would you be and why? I would be a fox, but a country fox. I don't think I would like to be an urban fox, too much trouble. I'd want to be a fox because they are smart and sly. They are majestic and run through the forest!
2. What one book do you wish you had written? Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Caroll
3. You're only allowed one for the rest of your life: chocolate or cheese? Cheese, got to be cheese, especially night cheese.
4. Money is no object, where is the next place you'd like to travel to? New Zealand. I've wanted to visit it for years. I want to walk in Middle Earth.
5. What are most looking forward to right at this moment? I can't say. But I am looking forward to my birthday, ish.
6. What is your signature dish? I can only make cupcakes, biscuits and soup, so Butternut Squash Soup with salsa.
7. What was the last fancy dress party you went to? What did you go as? I think it was back in my third year of University, at our house's last party, it was movie themed. I dressed as the awesome Heather Mooney from Romey and Michelle's High School Reunion.
8. What's your favourite song/band? (you can answer either or, as it's a tough one) Favourite band is difficult but song would have to be We Used to Vacation by Cold War Kids.
9. Do yo have a moto, or a favourite quote, what is it/who said it? Not motto but my favourite quote is from Romeo and Juilet: "These violet delights have violent ends..."
10. If you could go back in time what would you tell your 14 year old self? I would say, 'DON'T EAT THOSE CAFETERIA DOUGHNUTS!' and 'Why did you give up trampoline?'.
11.Where in the world is your favourite place? This is difficult as I am most at home in a cinema watching a film. But I did really like Brussels.


11 things about me:
1. I really want a pet dog but can't as I am allergic to dogs (and cats, fur and feathers).
2. If I could live in a film it would be a Wes Anderson film. But I would want to work on a Coen Brothers film.
3. I really wish I had come up with the story of the Disney short 'The Whale who wanted to sing at the Met"
4. I have looked into becoming a seal warden a few times.
5. When I was aged 5 til 16 I wanted to be an actress and took part in anything to do with drama.
6. If I had my own zoo I would have the following animals dwell in it; an otter, a seal, a penguin, a polar bear, a fox and a duck.
7. Having seen the musical 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers' when I was very young it is now embedded into my mind as amazing.
8. One of my favourite things to do on a lazy day is to drink tea and watch Poirot or Miss Marple. That or reorganise my DVDs.
9. I am obsessed with White Russian cocktails after seeing The Big Lebowski.
10. Had a traumatic experience when I was 17, I ended up missing an exam. I think loads of people know the story.
11. The last item I bought that wasn't coffee was my very own Toasted Sandwich Maker.

My questions to my nominees:
1. What posters did you have on your wall when you were 10 years old?
2. If you could be any character from fiction who would it be?
3. What was the first film you saw at the cinema?
4. What was the last book you read and was it any good?
5. Do you have a bad habit? If you do, what is it and do you keep it a secret?
6. What it your favourite kind of cake?
7. Are you superstitious and have you ended up in an embarrassing situation because of being so?
8. Whats the craziest piece of clothing in your wardrobe?
9. If you could live anywhere, where would it be and why?
10. Who's the person you admire the most and why?
11. What television show are you addicted to at the moment?


And the nominees are:
Merideth - one sheepish girl
and
Laura - Laura Lexx

Challenge Excepted: Australia

I ventured to a continent that I haven't ventured to before, Australia.

The country is also Australia and the film is Sleeping Beauty.

When I first read about this film I thought it was going to be an interpretation of the beloved fairy tale. But with further reading and with the release of the film I read more into the story, thank goodness. I can tell you now it is most definitely NOT like the fairy tale nor does it resemble the fairy tale. This is an original and disturbing story.

I wanted to watch it after I saw the trailer and for the simple reason, I wanted to know what happened when she slept.

The story is about student Lucy who short on money to say the least. She has several odd jobs and it is insinuated she is also a prostitute, presumably so she can pay rent and her tuition. She answers an advertisement in the newspaper and is then invited to a strange interview where she is examined by Clara and explained the job she is to perform. Lucy acts as a freelance silver service in lingerie, serving at quiet, disturbing lavish dinner parties. After serving at another party, Lucy is called in by Clara with a different request. For this job she must be completely sedated. After a few more times, Lucy wants to know what happens to her when she sleeps.

The film ends on a strange note leaving you feeling unsatisfied and uneasy. There is not abrupt ending, just a long fade to black and an almost static shot. I wanted to know what happened next, what happened to Lucy. There isn't even room to wonder because the final dialogue is just a scream.

The film is very elegant and easy on the eye, meaning the colours and tone of the shots are easy to look at. This is a contrast to the bare script. This isn't a bad thing but there are a few plot holes which bothered me while watching the film. I did feel like I could have had more information about Lucy and the people she meets. The mystery of the organisation that Clara works for as well as her nameless clients works so well. You don't need names for the characters, their actions and dialogue express them character for them. If that makes sense.

Over all an odd film. A very different kind of Australian film.

End Line: Disturbing fairy tale-esque with an obvious caution.

Next: Wales, Iceland, Japan, Mexico, Sweden, New Zealand, Romanian & Hungarian

July Watch List

1. Wanderlust

This is terrible film. Yes it's funny when we make fun of strange weird hippies but not for 98 minutes. I kept thinking there something deeper going on but no, nothing. The story is about New Yorker couple who have to move to Georgia to live with Paul Rudd's brother who is awful. They meet a house full of hippies and end up staying with them. Jennifer Aniston and Rudd's relationship is strained and boring. I sided with Rudd throughout because Aniston's character was an idiot. The only good part of the film was the end. That's it. Terrible film that was not funny. 1/5


2. The Five Year Engagement

Written by Jason Segal and directer Nicholas Stoller this film is brilliant. The story of Tom (Segal) and Violet's (Emily Blunt) engagement from proposal to break up to make up. I love Jason Segal so anything he writes I will automatically love. The story was like a roller coaster and was genuinely funny. The characters are hard to dislike at any point in the film and the ending is really sweet but bearable. I also loved the use of grandparent deaths to show the passing of time. 4/5


3. Electrick Children

A most beautiful film about a naive morman girl. Actually to be fair she is only naive because of her lack of teaching. Rachel lives in a Morman community where her father is the pastor. One night she comes across a blue tape and hears rock music for the first time. A few months later she discovers she is pregnant. She believes that the man singing on the tape is the father of her child. Of course no one believes her so they arrange for her to be married but she runs away. She finds herself in Las Vegas and decides to look for the man singing on the tape. Set in the 90's which is quite fresh look instead of the 60s, 70s and 80s, it was great to see/hear familiar things on screen. I grew up in the 90's I felt connected to this amazing film. It is the debut film from writer/directer Rebecca Thomas and seeing this gives me hope for the future of women filmmakers. 4/5


4. Magic Mike

Everyone (mainly women) who wanted to see this kept saying, 'I feel a bit bad, but I want to see this'. Why? Just because it was about a stripper? Its based on a true story and anyone on the fence, just go see it! It's actually a good film, apart from Alex Pettyfer and the horse faced woman who played his sister, they were REALLY annoying. Yes there is stripping and yes theres a sort of rags to riches element to it and Mike does want something more in life, but its a fun film. If it helps, its directed by Steven Soderbergh, who is awesome. 3/5

5. Paper Moon

This filmed had been recorded months ago and I only got round to watching it a few weeks back. Worth the wait. If anyone is fan of old 1930-1940s films, this is perfect. Filmed in the 1973 this film looks and feel as if it were shot in the 30s. Not just because its black and white but because of the story and the acting. Real life father and daughter, Ryan and Tatum O'Neal are Moze and Adie. Moze is a grifter/Bible salesman and may or may not be Adie's father. After Adie's mother dies he comes to pay his respects and ends up having to take Adie to her aunt's but they end up as team grifting as they go. It's a great film with added Madeline Kahn and with her you definitely can't go wrong. 4/5

6. Withnail & I

I've told so many thing about this film over the years. I knew quotes from it without even seeing it and I had everyone telling me to watch it. I know its a cult film and I can see why, but I may have missed the boat. The characters are amazing, Richard E. Grant is absolutely brilliant as always. Uncle Monty terrified me and I agree, more wine! 3/5

7. The Dark Knight Rises

8. We Bought a Zoo

Loved this story, didn't think I would but I did. Not a Scarlett Johansson fan but she was ok in this film. It was actually interesting to see how a zoo would function and the family story was well played. It was very sad with all the flash backs of the mum in photos and a dream like sequence but the animals made everything a whole lot better. Saying that, my only complaint, more animals! I wanted to see more animals. Also where were the seals??? 3/5

9. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

This is another film where everyone was asking have I watched it and that I should. Again, I can see why people liked it so much there hasn't been a film that actual has good roles for older actors. The story is about a group of assorted older British actors who have retired and go to live in a hotel especially for their age group in India. I thought it was going to be more amusing than it was and I thought there would be less Judi 'I'm so bored of this woman' Dench. The hotel itself looked incredible and the culture clash elements were great but after a while the only character I was interested in was Maggie Smith. 3/5

10. Contraband

Not something I would go out of my way to watch but I wanted to watch an action film. Better than I thought. But I would just like to say, at no point in this film does Mark Wahlberg tape money to his person in the film so this poster is confusing. The basic story is, Wahlberg's brother in law gets in trouble with the local drug ring when he fails to deliver the goods. Wahlberg steps in to help after having quit the business years previous. There are twists and turns and a random appearance from Diego Luna and overall a pretty entertaining film. 3/5

11. Crazy Stupid Love

I'm going to say it, people will hate me but I didn't think much of this film. I felt sorry for Cal (Steve Carrell) the whole way through, Emma Stone was not in it enough and even though I think Ryan Gosling is an awesome actor, I hated his character, he did not suit the part at all. The only part of the film I liked was the end. It was hilarious and an actual surprise, I didn't stop laughing. But otherwise a disappointment. 2/5

12. Project X

 
 From the makers of 'The Hangover' across the original poster really put me off but the trailer looked awesome. The ultimate house party looked very appealing especially it was shot, or was made to look like it was shot with a dv cam by the mysterious Dax. Three friends in their senior year in high school decide to have a gigantic party when one of their parents go away for the weekend. The party gets way out of control with the party going up in flames and the police arresting the three friends. During filming extras and attendees were given recording devices to show different aspects of the film as well as including fictional news casts. A great idea and genuinely laugh out loud funny. 4/5

Challenge Excepted: France

A historical drama that has hardly been mentioned. It is France this time and the film, Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky.

I saw 'Coco Before Chanel' (2009) in the cinemas and didn't think much about the film. I thought I would get an insight to one of the most famous people in fashion and one of the most infamous women of the 20th Century, but I didn't really. When she finally started wearing men's clothing and cutting up material, that's when the magic happened. I started to become interested in her affair with the British polo player, Captain Arther Edward 'Boy' Capel but the film ended before that was explored.

As I had never researched or had reason before to look up Chanel I was amazed to see so much about her. I am not a fashion follower and know nothing of fashion history. But I was surprised to see that 'She was the only fashion designer to be named on Time 100: The Most Important People of the Century'.

While 'Coco Before Chanel' ended with Coco's relationship with 'Boy' only just starting, in this film, he dies just after the first few scenes. But this film isn't about him and her. It's about what happened after the love of Chanel's life dies in a car accident and Stravinsky's 'The Rite of Spring' causes one of the most famous classical music riots in history.

The film begins in 1913. The premiere of Stravinsky's latest work, The Rite of Spring, is performed. There is riot, the audience is outraged by the composition of the music. Coco Chanel is in the audience.

Seven years later, Chanel and Stravinsky meet again. Chanel's business in fashion is flourishing but she is still mourning the death of Boy. Stravinsky and his family have decided to flee Russia and the revolution and live in France but they are almost penniless. When these two meet there is, yes, immediate attraction, as well as sympathy.

Chanel invited Stravinsky and his family to live in her villa outside Paris. The family move in and things start to get better for the Russian family. But of course, during the summer months, Chanel and Stravinsky begin an affair.

You may think when reading this that I've given everything away. I haven't. The film is amazing to watch if not for the effortless shots but for the actors who embody their characters so well that I forgot who they were. Anna Mouglalis, a past Chanel model and Mads Mikkelsen are perfect as Chanel and Stravinsky. The glances and silences they share were captivating, it didn't matter what scene it was, they had chemistry that some films miss where a love affair is concerned.

I enjoyed this film more than 'Coco Before Chanel' because this didn't feel like it was catering for the masses. The masses that only speak english anyway. It had a different quality that felt like a true french film. CBC (I'm shortening it now) felt more like a commercial that english speakers could watch and say they'd seen a foreign film. I really loved Coco & Igor, it was simple, sad and passionate, couldn't ask for more.


 End Line: Music + Fashion + Perfume x Frustration ÷ Passion = Yes, it was erotic

Next: Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Iceland, Sweden, Hungary & Romania, Mexico

Return of the Phoenix

We all remember when Joaquin Phoenix went crazy in 2008 and 'retired' from acting to pursue a music career. We all thought that he might go into country music, as he did so well in 'Walk the Line'. But no, he decided to pursue a rap music career. He grew that hobo beard and acted strange and unnerving on the David Letterman show. But in 2010 we breathed a sigh of relief, well those who didn't realise that this 'act' had been all for a mockumentary, when he appeared on David Letterman's show again. He explained he and brother-in-law, Casey Affleck, had been filming this all for 'I'm Still Here' and that he had been playing a character.

I saw 'I'm Still Here' in the cinema with my sister, fans of the Phoenix for years and it was amazing. It was hilarious, it was hard to think how people thought it was real. Phoenix was a genius and an amazing actor and he has been missed from the screen. His last acting role (not including his own film) was back in 2008 and the upcoming film, The Master will his first since that date.

The story has been compared to the life of Scientology founder L Ron Hubbard but is in fact nothing to do with the man. The story is similar though, as Phillip Seymour Hoffman plays Lancaster Dodd, who forms his own religious movement during the 1950s. Phoenix is playing the role of the young protege.

When I first heard of this film and saw the trailer, I literally screamed I am that excited to see Phoenix in films again. Especially after hearing rumours of him appearing in others films such as Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter and Speilberg's Lincoln. A lot of Lincoln there.

Here is a link to The Master trailer: http://www.empireonline.com/News/story.asp?nid=34312

And a link to an article: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/18/the-master-poster-paul-thomas-anderson_n_1684776.html

The film is set for release this October. He has also been filming a few other films and thanks to this link below you can feast your eyes on these stills.
http://www.justjared.com/tags/joaquin-phoenix/

I told everyone that Joaquin Phoenix would rise again.