The rise and rise of Russell Brand

Call him what you what you want but he is funny! That’s what I say; a lot of people think that the eloquent and eccentric comedian is arrogant. I think he is too but the difference between him and others like him is that at least Mr Brand admits it. Prancing across the stage at the O2 in his last stand up routine, he took great pleasure in telling us that he LOVED the press attention for the stupidly named sachsgate. What did we do? We cheered him and laughed at his side of the story (for the record I thought it was all rubbish anyway!).

I’ll admit I hated him the first time I saw him (Big Brother’s Little Brother) he did come across as horribly arrogant and his comedy seemed solely based on sex and gyrating at the watching public that were brave enough to go on the there. My opinion of the man changed when by chance I watched Ponderland, his channel 4 series which he divulges what he thinks about specific subjects. It’s very very funny and does reveal a more what can best be described as normal side, in revealing his inner thoughts he is being frank and honest and allows the public in. So although still pretty arrogant he’s not ashamed of a past that almost killed him, in fact he’s quite aware that it has all made him the man he is today.

Ponderland made me watch his stand up, the stand up material of a man unashamedly telling us everything! For me that’s the secret of his success, he doesn’t hide behind a curtain of celebrity and revels in the news stories and controversy about his life. So much so that he uses his life as his material, kicking up some of the funniest material from a comedian in a long time. It’s refreshing to hear a comedian be this frank and a celebrity just living his life regardless of the press.

This honesty coupled with his brilliant use of the English language has also made its way into paper in the form of two very funny books. My Booky Wook is a startlingly laid bare biography that reveals the roots of this funny man. Articles of faith may not be seem as accessible as its mainly about the beautiful game but never fear for this is Russell Brand (said with rolling r’s) and as such skirts around the more football related issues, to bring you a very funny view of the premiership.

Of course this is Beeonfilm and we do need to address movies at some point, of course Get him to the Greek is out this week and one of our biggest imports looks to have finally broken into that difficult American market. His performance in Sarah Marshall a little close to real life for Brand but he played it so well, that’s why the character got his own film and to be honest I’m looking forward to seeing it and another stand up routine not to mention My Booky Wook 2! More from you Mr Brand more from you please!

Newsround 22/06/10

Thigs get a bit emotional on the set of Harry Potter and the wizarding world opens... i wish i could have been there!

How to sell lesser known comic book characters to the general paying public?

Shooting begins on the next Pirates of the Caribbean... yipee!...

Director of one of the best films of last year District 9 up for the Hobbit?

A new piracy threat to the film industry, as if there was enough to worry about!!

Controversial?

Lover: Taken from Tesco DVD rental.

“Based on the Western view of terrorism, the Middle East and the American viewpoint, this is an extremely plausible and extremely entertaining action movie. OK its obviously American biased, the outcome is rarely in doubt, but the whole story, the action and the horrors of terrorism play our really well, I thoroughly enjoyed this and would say it was a definate recommendation.”

Pretty good review of a pretty good movie…

Hater: Taken from Tesco DVD rental

“WOW! Who would have thought that a group of 4 Americans could go out and be incredibly dull for an hour and then single handed, in the last fifteen minutes of the movie save Saudi Arabia single handed and end the world terror threat! Absolute & total rubbish! I was so angry by the end of the Movie that you could quite easily understand why the US has so many enemies however this was better than the boredom that it makes you endure for the first hour YAWN! Sanctimonious RUBBISH! Jamie Fox must have been high on Crack Cocaine & Meths when he agreed to do this movie his acting as usual was brilliant however who would want to bring this character to life??? His Character is an idiot as are all his dim witted FBI comrades This movie should be tried for hate crime!”

this is a little over the top to be honest, I’ll tell you why bellow…

What I thought:
The Kingdom is one film in a long line of films that try and deal with the “war on terror”. It’s a touchy subject but let’s keep the real political debate away from being entertained shall we. There’s your first problem and why most of these films don’t translate, some people go to see it cause the trailer looked good or they heard it was an action movie, others go to see it expecting to see a thought provoking statement about terrorism and the conflict in the middle east.

The Kingdom comes out more on the entertaining side despite the rather misleading opening titles which works as a history lesson in Middle Eastern conflict. From that moment on the film is out to shock you, thrill you and surprise you, everything a entertaining thriller should do. Question is does it work on those things, answer pleasantly yes. The team of FBI agents who bribe their way over to investigate a terrorist attack are well played if a bit stereotypical. Jason Bateman for me is a stand out not because his better than the rest but because it’s a very different film for him to have done, good on the CV.

One thing that annoys me is people saying something is “pro American”, most of time I agree with the statement but it is over used! You’re watching a film where Americans have just died, more Americans risk their lives to find out who did it and the “bad guys” are Middle Eastern extremists. Ok so it is a bit a pro American and they do pick up a “token” middle eastern character during the film but just ignore politics and the news for a bit and sit back an enjoy what is not a half bad thriller.

BeeonLists…

A new thing for the blog, top 10’s from my point of view…. Starting of course with my personal top ten movies of all time…

10. The War of the Worlds (2005)
This is a very personal movie and would surprise anyone by being in any critics top ten list. The reason put simply is that I love anything based on the original novel and this adaptation is for me the best film version. Steven Spielberg captures the feel of the novel by keeping it personal; a view of an invasion from one mans perspective. Of course that man is played by Tom Cruise and of course everyone gets pitchforks and torches out for him! I’m going to stand up for the man and say I thought he was very convincing as an irresponsible father. My pick of the scenes would be when they are in the basement of their step fathers house and the Aliens/Martians attack a plane, your not shown any of it just blasted with noise which when I first saw made me almost pee me pants! Of course there are the tense scenes in the basement at the end which are handled very well, and the fact that the fighting machines are actually tripods, yay!

9. The Dark Knight
I have gone on about this movie till I am blue in face, it simply pushed the standard of comic book movies up a notch and showed what could be done with them. In a conversation I was having the other day we were saying we are in a time when everything is being taken a bit more seriously just look at this years take on Robin Hood! One character it hasn’t done any harm to is batman, great film making and a worthy top 10 entry. Best scene, pretty much every time Heath Ledger’s joker is on screen but if forced to pick I would choose the scene between him and Harvey “Two Face” brilliantly acted and shot! You could argue that the film would be no where near as hyped had it not been for the sad passing of Mr Ledger, the sad truth is we will never really know and that’s the worse thing about it. That bitter sweet ending knowing the Joker is still alive but no actor out there alive who can play him.

8. 28 Days Later
In my humble opinion a landmark in British film making and a wake up call for the zombie franchise. Danny Boyle has shown himself a master of various movie styles and to be fair Trainspotting and Slumdog probably deserve to be in here instead of this but it’s my favourite. A star in the making was Cillian Murphy who played the role superbly, showing his descent into the madness at the end with utter conviction. 28 days later for me was one of the scariest films I have ever seen, the most realistic vision of this type of scenario I have ever witnessed. My favourite scene in this film, the attack on the house at the beginning as it is directed so brilliantly, silent camera movements then BANG! The visceral violence is what sets these films apart from other zombie films, in those it’s all about gore and flesh eating; whilst here they just want to pound your face to a bloody pulp. The sequel is also very good and with a hint of a third you can sniff a franchise coming on.

7. Goodfellas
Probably deserves to be higher up the list but then it was tough enough whittling them down to 10! The Godfather isn’t in the list and that’s because I thought one gangster movie and to be honest I do prefer Goodfellas simply because it’s rewatchable time and time again. For me Godfather was enough one time round and though I’ll watch it again at some point I’d still prefer to re watch Goodfellas. This film is a masterwork in Direction and one of the best scenes is the camera as it follows Harry and Karen as they enter a club and are shown to a table in front of the stage; in one long continuous shot showing what a life of crime can give you. My favourite scene, what else but the “What do you mean I’m funny?” scene, Joe Pesci steals the film with one hell of a scary performance! It is a landmark in Gangster movies that in my opinion has not been matched, unless you count a certain HBO series of course.

6. Grosse Pointe Blanke
Another very personal choice, an incredible intelligently written comedy about an assassin with an attack of conscious, a stand out performance by John Cusack and an awesome soundtrack! Favourite scene without a doubt being stared out by a baby as Under Pressure plays in background; nothing puts your life in context like a baby does. As a feel good movie it has everything and for men and women of a certain age it meets several criteria. Moments of slushy romance are dulled by the black comedy and moments of violence are lessened by the witty banter between every single character in the script. It’s just so well written is the bottom line, its clever snappy and charming not to mention very very funny. It’s just a shame John Cusack doesn’t get more roles like this, as in most things specially these days he is a talent wasted.

5. The Usual Suspects
A long time favourite of mine that fooled that hell out of me and I love it when films do that! I also love re watching it just to see how they tricked me! Best scene is the line-up at the beginning that despite the actors losing their cool it was kept in and it works brilliantly! That’s also the recipe that makes the film work so well, the chemistry between the actors is excellent and the film just seems to ooze cool! Bryan Singer ripped a good yarn so to speak and deserved to go on and direct bigger things.

4. Aliens
It’s tough to pick the sequel over what was a fantastic first film but that’s one of the reasons it’s in here. Aliens is not just one of the best films ever its also one of the best sequels ever! It took what Ridley Scott had done and not only placed it into a larger universe but also a different genre, how many directors are brave enough to do that. Who would have thought a film that is basically a stalk and slash horror movie in space be pretty damn good as an action sci-fi? It does so by honouring the original, it’s still scary and the Alien is still kept the same. The things it adds only bring a whole new perspective to the original idea i.e. the alien queen. The human factor has more meaning, not just because there are more to care for but because the chemistry is amazing, I’ve often thought that the first hour or so is the best. No avatar is not in my top ten!

3. Fight Club
It’s really tough not putting this up at number 1; Fight Club is the definitive film of a generation. Ask anyone around my age (26) what their favourite films are and I guarantee Fight Club will come up almost every time! It’s possibly the coolest film ever and fools the hell out of most people who see it for the first time. It is superbly acted by all involved, directed in such a wonderful individual style and based on one hell of a book.

2. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Now I could have said all three but the nature of this top ten is that its movies that stand alone not as part of a franchise. However the whole trilogy is amazing and groundbreaking it just that this one, like the books is more linear story telling. What that does is make the story simpler; in turn it also makes it much more emotional. One route and several characters progressing together on a steady but hard journey it’s a classic but it works. The other parts of the trilogy were a little detached due to manically having to cut between characters. That is the only reason though and The Lord of the Rings is one generations Star Wars and will be remembered as such because of everyone involved and their insane attention to detail, that created such a wonderfully in depth fantasy world. My favourite scene; Aragorn’s fight with Lurtz without a doubt!

1. The Shawshank Redemption
Still not 100% whether or not I want to have this at number 1 but I put it there when I wrote this list down and I’m keeping It like that, It’s in a lot of top ten lists and is not a stranger to the number 1 spot. The Shawshank Redemption is the very definition of an inspiring movie, above all it inspires hope. Based on a great book by Stephen King this story of wrongly accused Andy Duframe drags it self through what could potentially be a huge downer. The film has a rather episodic feel of traumatic moments tied together with blind hope; the important thing is that the blind hope wins in the end. In a book I have, someone accuses Shawshank of being too “sentimental”, although he may have a point I think it all depends on your personal connection to the movie and most people see it the way I do. That at the end of the film when you realise after everything he went through that hope really can be found in the darkest of places. Dramatic I know but this film deserves it.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Repeat viewings blunt the claws

Lover: Taken from IMDB
 
“I finally watched X-Men Origins: Wolverine today not too sure what to expect hoping for at least traces of the quality of the previous X Men movies which i love. Let me tell you that i was blown away by this incredible movie and dare i say was the best out of the series. It is action packed and the story line is superb, I was glued to the TV without wanting even to look away for a moment scared id miss something. I found X-Men Origins: Wolverine far more entertaining than Watchmen and several so called blockbusters.Whether you're are an x-Men fan or not do yourself a favor and watch this, I'm sure you'll be pleasantly surprised...”

I can see where this person is coming from I was swept up by it the first time I saw it but by no means is this the best Xmen related feature!
 
Hater: Taken from IMDB
 
“Close to one of the worst films I have ever seen. The story is so rushed it leaves you asking questions of why? With more focus on the visuals the story seems very slap dash and they have managed to ruin probably one of the best comic book characters. They need to focus at least more on his back story and perhaps the relationship with mutant group established by Stryker. Also they touched upon other characters within the Weapon X Project and then quickly skipped over, as soon as they came in they quickly left (trying not to give anything away). The biggest disappointment, especially after so much hype. This could have been something great. Also with Magneto in the pipeline as well, could they ruin another part of the X-Men saga.”

As time has gone (I have watched it about 4 times now) Wolverine has become a great big toy commercial set to line studio bosses pockets. So I’m kinda leaning more to this guy now.

What I thought:
The first thing I feel I should touch on is plot holes, this film is full of them and makes no effort to resolve them what so ever! Making some of the other mutants who make a cameo just that; a cameo! There is no exploration as to why some of these mutants, some of them stealing the screen when on it (Ryan Reynolds, Dominic Monohaughn) just appear and disappear as the script writers saw fit. Secondly the opening sequence whilst attractive to look at is just that! How did they end up in all of these wars and why is Sabretooth such a psycho?

All of these plot holes can be filled in if you know something about the comics but make no sense if you don’t. I guess on a personal level I hate it because I waited so long to see Gambit in one of these movies and what do I get? Some pubescent loser who plays him with no charm what-so-ever, such a waste of what is a great character!

It’s such a shame when they do this but the Wolverine sequel based on the samurai storyline sounds ten time better, fingers or craws crossed ah? For more on the world of the Xmen and Wolverine read my feature on the right.

HULK SMASH!!!!

Hater: Taken from Tesco DVD rental
 
“If you enjoyed Ang Lee's superior version of this superhero character I'd give this a wide berth. Gone is the character development and stylistic verve of Lee's underrated film as the focus switches mainly to action. Sadly it isn't enough action to keep you entertained during the moments of character emotions as the director wallows in genre conventions and lacks the touch to deliver anything from the characters themselves. A star-studded cast is given no help by dialoge that sounds it was written by a fanboy leaving the actors to look clumsy in their performances. There's not even room to ham it up the script is that poor. There are some decent action sequences along the way but the film drags tremendously when it's not 'Hulk bash!' and you end up feeling like you've just watched any old franchise film. Rent Ang Lee's version if you're looking for somebody doing something different with a superhero character not this.”
 
Who wants someone to do something different with a superhero character? I’ll grant you it works for Batman but then he’s been re done so many times! This is the Hulk and I’m sorry I don’t care what you say Ang Lee’s Hulk was pants!

Lover: Taken from Tesco DVD rental
 
“After the previous attempt to bring Hulk to the big screen overran by at least 45 mins, I was hoping that this latest offering would fare better. I was not disappointed. Edward Norton was great in this role & Tim Roth was equally as good as contender for the biggest & toughest dude in town. The fight scenes were spectacular & I loved the twist at the end featuring a future hero. I hope there's a sequel to this, as it was far better than The Hulk. Much faster pace & better plot. I'd definitely have this in my collection!”

That’s a bit more like it!

What I thought:
Firstly, comic book movies are supposed to be FUN! Even the Dark Knight with its moody feel was fun to watch! Ang Lee’s arrogant character exploration was not and I repeat not, fun! Not to mention the fact his Hulk liked to change size at moments in the film! Edward Norton first of all is great casting as Bruce Banner, this character is a science nerd with a lot of in cased anger, its part of the reason why the Hulk creature is so angry in the first place. All Mr Norton had to do was channel Fight Club and you’ve got it, except instead of Brad Pitt it’s a great big green monster.

The Incredible Hulk also has lots of great winks to the comics and the old TV Series, which should please fanboys and even more importantly with the appearance of one Tony Stark; tie itself in with the Marvel Studio Franchise. Please let Edward Norton’s Hulk be in the avengers!!!

For more from me about this movie check out my full review on the right.

Same sh*t different day

Lovers: Taken from imdb

"I saw this movie at a preview event last Friday night and it was hilarious. The sold out cinema was laughing hysterically throughout the movie. The movie is fast paced and does not drag. The comedy is "r" rated with a little raunchy adult humor that can be shocking at times but that is in line with the movies theme of male/female relationships.Katherine Heigl and Gerard Butler were both great in the film. Not a role that you would expect to see the King of Sparta, but Butler has great comedic timing complimenting his tough guy persona. And Katherine Heigl is once again perfect doing comedy.If you are expecting to see a typical romantic comedy you will be surprised, because this R rated film is geared toward the men in the audience as well as the ladies. Grab your significant other and be prepared to laugh and enjoy the movie together."

There are some good laughs to be had and it is quite fast paced but then there that last 20 mins…

Haters: taken form imdb

"Before renting this film I had read quite a few reviews about this film on this site and decided that it sounded good and would be appropriate for me to watch with my 17-year old daughter. I was misled. So, I need to make a comment. I've just re-read as many of those previous comments/reviews, plus a dozen more. It seems that many people saw the film in "preview" showing - they all loved it. Could those posts be planted by the movie production or distribution companies? Because, frankly, this movie was not funny, it was filled with vulgarity, and it was poorly made, with choppy scenes, poor character development, etc.If the creators of this film were trying to emulate a Hepburn/Tracy-like relationship on screen, they failed. Seeing a beautiful woman say the word c*** repeatedly is not humorous, sexy or intriguing. It's just plain bad film-making. A terrible script, stereotyped characters and, overall, a bad career choice for the actors involved.Very inappropriate for high school aged kids who love the romantic comedy formula and go to these movies because they feel good that the couple ends up together happy. This couple finally gets together, but my daughter and I felt liked we'd been dragged through the mud with them to get there. "

I can see where this lady is coming from, some jokes are crude but in all fairness there is worse out there! The point with the repeated cock lines is a bit cheap and not very funny.

What I thought:
As usual me and “rom-coms” don’t get on, they are all the same and ultimately boil down to one point. The important part is the journey and up until the final third The Ugly Truth is actually quite funny. Gerard Butler plays his character well and is quite good at delivering those funny lines, of course Katherine Heigl has made a career out of roles like this and as usual she is just as likeable as any other similar role, she has a very “Meg Ryan” moment at a dinner table that’s quite funny.

Where this film lets itself down is at the end, they build this film up as a battle of the sex’s comedy that holds no punches. What comes out at the end is a slushy romance to make you gag, which is a shame as there was some potential. The ending was just so non committal and felt like it was written in 5 mins and up until that crawl to the end the film is fast moving and the gags come quick and fast.

So it’s a laugh until about the last 30 mins or so, nothing to write home about.

No guts no glory

Lover: taken from IMDB
"I saw the movie at the world premiere in Venice and Mickey Rourke, Darren Aronofsky and other crew members were also in the audience. When the credits began, people were jumping out of their seats (including me) applauding and cheering for more than 15 minutes. It was really amazing. I have been a Rourke fan for 10 years now and to me Darren Aronofsky is one of the greatest directors of the last ten years. So when I entered the cinema my expectations were as high as never before. But this 40 Euro ticket was worth every cent. I never saw such a moving performance by "Sir Eddie Cook" who played Randy "the Ram" with such authenticity that I was paralyzed for almost two hours. And that's because Rourke isn't just playing "Ram", he IS "Ram", at least a part of him (there are many parallels to his real troubled past). Aronofsky really did a great job and really pushed the actors to their limits. It is amazing to see how a good director can turn such a simple story into one of the greatest movies I have ever seen (and I watch hundreds of movies). So everybody who grew up in the 80's with wrestling, hard rock and Nintendo or just loves movies should see this - at least ten times. God bless you Darren, Mickey and all the other crew members for the best cinema experience I have ever had. no doubt about it."

He really did love this movie!

Hater: Taken from IMDB
"The guy is very talented. Pi & Requiem for a Dream were brilliant but made no money. The Fountain was solid but overly ambitious and lacked a Hollywood storyline thus lost about $25 million. The Wrestler is Darren paying back his Hollywood machers. Yes, it is well acted but the story of an aging burnout who can't let go of his past glory is the oldest story in the book. I found the depth lacking and overall it just plodded along until the ultimately cliché ending. Just follow the numbers people - cost only $7 million and will probably gross about $20 - $30 million. This is Darren trying to remain viable in Hollywood and little else."

He really hated it!!

What I thought:
My thought on the Wrestler lay somewhere between these two, rather annoyingly I’m sitting on the fence for this film. I think to not see the parallel’s in Mickey Rourkes real life would be stupid but then that’s why he plays it so well. In regards to the depth I think the hate has a point it’s not that in-depth but then neither was Rocky?

The other inevitable comparison would be Rocky and I think Rocky does beat it hands down. Simply because Rocky is more likeable, Randy “The Ram” is a bit of a scoundrel and really only has himself to blame. Rocky on the other was just shit out of luck! I think the wrestlers worth watching for the performance but also a revealing expose into the world of wrestling.

Despite the fights being “fake” wrestling still takes a lot out of the combatants and its about time people realised that. I don’t watch wrestling anymore but when I did I loved it and The Wrestler reminded me why. The pain that you see in the film looks and feels real and it shows you the kind of punishment that these guys put themselves through to show you a good time.

I think the film should be watched as less a redemption story and more a revealing look into the life of a wrestler albeit a washed up one.

Growing Pains

Lover: Taken form IMDB
 
“So i got the chance of seeing An Education and let me tell you, i couldn't wait the hour to come and tell what a fantastic film this is. Well even that the plot has been re-used several times, i believe that this time it really move me. this movie has heart and even made me laugh and cry. Every one from the director to the cast did a terrific job but there were two that shine: Carey Mulligan and Rosemund Pike. Carey did a terrific and moving job as Jenny; she's so natural and charming but also so strong and moving as this girl that i think that if she doesn't get the Oscar i will be so upset and many of you too. Pike also shine in her bubbly role but also made me feel some compassion for her as somehow the other woman of copper's character. so if you have a chance of picking this movie anywhere you are don't even think twice; this movie is gonna change you.”

Well I don’t know about “changing me” but I liked the film too.

Hater: Taken from IMDB
 
“It is simply beyond me how this film is seen as anything more than light moralistic drivel. I see about 400 films a year, and this was one of the 5 worst. Awful acting from the father, totally unbelievable and silly-easy plot, the sort of script that make film students wonder why they need to bother to study. It is moralizing nonsense from a woman who obviously fell too easily, got her feathers burnt, then spent the rest of her life avenging herself, and blaming him for being a cad. There are plenty of age-gap relationships that have lasted lifetimes, and even more same-age relationships that fail dreadfully, with abuses all around. It feels the film was made to score social points in a puritanical Britain. No depth of any kind, just that one lovely fake-teen, and a story that no doubt titillates older men to score it over a 5. Don't fall for the publicity-made hype. It is a TV movie at the most.”

It’s a shame these days that films are taken so seriously and this review isn’t even the pick of the bunch! One review I read damned the film for just being plain wrong!?

What I Thought:

When considering An Education you have to first detach yourself from the hysteria that has been made of horrible Paedophilic story’s that fills our news. As horrible as it all is it should in no way be applied to this movie which in a round about way is where some of the more scathing reviews are coming from. An Education is more than a coming of age story; it applies itself to the argument of where you learn more whilst growing up; in the real world or packing yourself off to college and University.

Our main character is a bright, charming and beautiful girl pushed into things by her parents at a time when the world was really moving forward. Perhaps not in the right direction but there was so much freedom out there for the youth and a revolution was going on. When a mysterious gentleman gives her a lift home and sweeps her off her feet its no wonder she gets carried away. Here begins the more controversial parts of the film, this gentleman just so happens to be quite a bit older. If it were to happen today his face would be on the front the Tabloids and he would be labelled a “predator”.

In some way’s he is though and it’s a credit to Peter Sarsgaard who plays him so well to the point where you don’t want to feel sorry for him but you do. Of course Carey Muligan is everything you have heard, a completely committed performance and worthy of every accolade she has achieved. In the end our main character has learned valuable lessons and found her way, because after all there really is no way of knowing how best to get “an education” because the real education is working that out for yourself.

Not so merry men

Lovers: David Edwards for the Mirror.co.uk

“Despite the feeling that Scott is laying the foundations for a sequel dealing with Robin's life as a forest-dwelling outlaw, the film never gets bogged down in backstory thanks to some great action set pieces. The highlight, however, is the odious Sir Godfrey, terrifically played by Strong who steals his every scene. As for Crowe, while he nails the Midlands accent, it'd be nice to see him without that trademark frown. Perhaps mindful of the 30-odd Robin Hood movies that have come before, Scott has portrayed him as a principled freedom fighter handy not just with a bow and arrow but able to deliver rousing speeches, even persuading King John to consider signing the Magna Carta. Your history teacher might not like it but this scores a bullseye”

Ok its not exactly singing with praise but sounds like he liked it.

Haters: Roger Ebert for The Chicago Sun-Times

“Have we grown weary of the delightful aspects of the Robin Hood legend? Is witty dialogue no longer permitted? Are Robin and Marion no longer allowed to engage in a spirited flirtation? Must their relationship seem like high-level sexual negotiations? How many people need to be covered in boiling oil for Robin Hood's story to be told these days? How many parents will be misled by the film's PG-13 rating? Must children go directly from animated dragons to skewering and decapitation, with no interval of cheerful storytelling?
The photography is, however, remarkable, and Crowe and the others are filled with fierce energy. Ridley Scott is a fine director for work like this, although in another world, Hollywood would let him make smarter films. God, he must be tired of enormous battle scenes.”

Roger Ebert makes me laugh, most of his reviews have this rose tinted view of Hollywood. I can appreciate that the movies have changed in the years he has been reviewing but I don’t think he has. You would be an idiot to think that this Robin Hood will be anything like what you have seen before; it’s directed by RIDLEY SCOTT!!!!

What I thought:

I thought Robin Hood was a nice blend of ye old legend and modern epic film making, the characters were as I would imagine them. This Maid Marion suffers no fools, these merry men are proper lads who like a drink (and should have had more screen time). As for the rest of the cast everyone was watchable as the last even Mark Strong who does seem to be milking that bad guy role.

I think it was well written to, the dialogue has all of the cringe inducing motivational lines and speech’s along with some very good moments humour that don’t feel forced. As usual Ridley Scott is the master of the modern epic, sweeping views of jaw dropping action set pieces, nobody does it better.

Another thing I don’t understand is everyone’s hatred for Russell Crowe, I can see the man has been typecast but then every great actor does! Johnny Depp is still milking that “eccentric clown” to the point where its become a little dry (though I’m yet to see Alice)and nobody hates him? It’s frustrating when people do that but then it’s the nature of the beast. In this film for instance Mr Crowe has a bit of laugh and his character doesn’t have as many hang-ups which is refreshing and means he can explore the role.

Robin Hood is a well played, well acted action epic that ticks all the right boxes for fans of Gladiator.

A Biopic, this is not.

Lovers: Taken from IMDB:
 
"Despite the title and unlike some other stories about love and war, this film isn't too sticky and pink, because love is as a rose: With thorns, that is. The four leading actors set their characters realistic and with a good sense and balance between the tragic and the down-to-earth.
The music and lyrics of the cabaret/chanson-esquire songs (sung b Keira Knightley herself) drag the viewer deeper and deeper in the film, from one place to another, between the brutal war and amongst the peaceful love. Some people may find it too much a biopic, but it ís mostly a romantic story, even though it consequently follows the life of Dylan Thomas and the triangular relationship which is steeped by joy and jealousy.
London gets visualized from another angle for once, the bohemian life of Dylan during the bombings of the Germans is set in a floating atmosphere of small bedrooms, pubs and bars. The independent women, the soldier and the charismatic poet are constantly swept in both feelings of love and anger.
Maybe the end is too twisted and hangs somewhat loosely to the rest of the film, but all in all this is a great romantic story"
 
I agree with this review….

Haters: Taken from IMDB:
 
"This is probably the worst film I have ever had the misfortune to see. There is no discernible plot, the script might have been written by a twelve-year-old, and the acting is deplorable. Above all, it seems to have nothing to do with either Dylan or Caitlin Thomas. This film buys into all the clichés about the Thomas' life together, and gives those viewers unfamiliar with the facts a picture that bears as good as no resemblance to the truth. The pretentiousness of this film is nauseating; I can only assume that none of the actors or actresses had ever read anything of Dylan or Caitlin Thomas. had they bothered to do so, they might have spotted the misquoted lines of Thomas' poetry that are scattered throughout the 'dialogue' at the most inopportune moments. this picture is deplorable. Miss it."

Now I don’t know much about the life of Dylan Thomas so I can’t really comment on that but just as a film not biopic it wasn’t all that bad.

What I thought:

You know when you see an actor and they become one of you favourites, from that moment on they can do no wrong. In this example it’s Cillian Murphy, who cut his teeth in the big time with Danny Boyles brilliant 28 Days Later which owed a lot to his performance. Since then whatever I’ve seen him in he has been great, including this. Despite the title and the cover convincing you your about to watch some slushy war time romance flick, it should surprise you. It will surprise you even more if you’re familiar with the poet Dylan Thomas, because although this film includes him as a character it is not a biopic.

This is a story of love and lust which simply has a wartime backdrop and is based on a time in Dylan Thomas’s life. It uses the poetry of the man to give it a very dreamy setting (though according to the hater review it is all “misquoted”). It’s Cillian Murphy’s war hero that carries the film for me, whose performance is believable and committed. He even helps to ignore the fact the Kiera Knightly is in it, as well its quite dark tone due to the subject matter and the setting. All of this makes for a quite a good wartime drama, forget watching it as a romance or biopic, you wont like it.

It aint Swingers!

Lovers: Taken from IMDB

"My wife and I saw this film not expecting a great deal. We aren't big fans of Vaughn or Favreau (Stars and Writers). But the film preview piqued our interest. We were surprised and delighted to see that Peter Billingsley (A Christmas Story) was the Director. He did a fine job! We were quite pleasantly surprised to find Couples Retreat was very touching and poignant in it's handling of the challenges of marriage. Yes, it has some rather sexually suggestive scenes, but they are played for laughs and not personally offensive for us. The resolution of conflicts in the participants lives was very satisfying for us as we believe marriage is worth the effort! The setting in Bora Bora is absolutely breathtaking and we truly enjoyed our afternoon at the movies!"

Hmm not to sure about the handling of challenges of marriage, apart from that fair enough.

Haters: Taken from IMDB

"If your idea of Comedy consist of juvenile dirty jokes that center around masturbating and sticking your private parts into other peoples faces, then this is your kind of movie. If your idea of Entertainment is watching four narcissistic, sexually depraved adults trying to cope with married life, then this is your kind of movie. The photography and location are fantastic. Casting did a great job in booking the talent. Peter did a good job on the set. The plot could work with better writers. The story was weak and fragmented. I would recommend this movie only if you have absolutely nothing else to do on a cold rainy day and you're craving Popcorn. My rating is F+ for great scenery. The Cast, Crew and Producers should be ashamed."

I agree with this guy but there are still laughs to be had in this movie.

What I thought:

I have to say I was largely disappointed with this movie, the main reason being that the last time I saw John Fareau and Vince Vaughn act together was in swingers and that film rocked. Swingers had all the charm and look for an indie film and delivered quick-fire laughs, not belly laughs but a constant chuckle. Couples Retreat is nothing like that and apart from some sight gags that should get some laughs it’s not very funny. Vince Vaughn’s rant about being “bitten” by a shark is great but it’s the only real time Vince really hits his peak for dialogue.

So a largely disappointing film that should have made more if its cast than its location.

Nick and Norah’s nostalgia trip

Lovers: Taken from IMDB

“I've seen a ton of romantic comedies, some are good, some are awful; very few are really really good.... You guessed it... wow! Did we love this: smart, dippy, cutting, funny in all shades of funny, sweet romantic with a down low low-fi edge, up to date and even occasionally over the top this was far and away our favorite romantic comedy of the year and I'm giving it a solid ten in its genre. Need to go on a date movie? This is your bucket of chicken - I promise you'll leave feeling lighter and curly wurly. Very well directed by Peter Sollett it really brings an affection to its making and he's a name to look out for if you ask us... All in all kind of our bag through and through... go see...”

A nice review for a nice movie.

Haters: Taken from IMDB

“I'm not sure why or how this happened, but there seems to be an escalating amount of Jewish driven comedies emerging on the Hollywood Scene. I don't quite remember where it started, perhaps with the presence of Natalie Portman... who knows. Anyway, with that film about the Amusement Park this past summer to this film, movies that depict entire American communities as being nothing but Jewish kids is kind of offensive and discomforting. Where are the Christains or Muslims in these movies? Secondly, the characters were empty, think, nothing but makeup on skin. Sure they were all good looking on screen, but there really wasn't anything to them or the silly little story that they were thrown into. A night on the town of New York has been done too many times to be innovative.
1 Star, worth skipping.”

A rather controversial view of religion in not just this film but a lot of films, hmm? I could see his point if these films were supposed to have a religious angle but they don’t so I don’t see why he’s got his knickers in a twist!

What I thought:

For me Nick and Norah was a great nostalgic trip into my misspent youth. I was having a conversation the other day about the kind of music you listen to and the way it defines you. Back in the day I use to listen to quite heavy stuff but not because I was angry at my parents. I appreciated the energy, I like high energy songs and still do, what I was angry about back then was girls, which meant I was into what they call “pop punk”.

The point I’m trying to make here is that Infinite playlist made me feel the same way that music use to make me feel. It reminded what a first kiss felt like when you were a teenager, it reminded me what that first awkward fondle was like or how it felt when she broke your heart. It does this by being unashamedly cute, with Michael Cera using on his awkward type cast once again (if it aint broken why fix it?).

The majority of the cast are terrible stereotypes but weren’t we all at some point. This film is a pleasant watch and may take some of you on a journey to your past endeavours; or rather weirdly put you on a defensive about religious groups portrayed in movies?

Where no director had been before

Lovers: Taken from IMDB
 
“So I managed to go to the world premiere at the Sydney opera house last night. While I will not ruin the film before its release by delivering a shot by shot review here I will say that JJ Abrams is quite possibly the smartest film maker on the planet. Managing to poke fun at some of the sillier aspects of the original series/movies while still being completely respectful, action scenes that easily rival anything in Transformers, and space battles that are breathtaking. Now let me just say that while I do consider myself a big fan of Trek in all its forms, i don't have a uniform hanging in my wardrobe and I cant speak Klingon, but having said that I will say the movie is F###ING AMAZING...!!! Honestly, incredible film, do yourself a favour and see it as soon as it comes out. thanks, the end.”

Sums up the movie pretty well I think.

Haters: Taken from IMDB
 
“Darth Vader, err, Darth Maul - umm, I mean Nero - has this huge, gigantic awesome Death Star - err, I mean Mining Ship, that can destroy entire planets. So Nero blows up Alderaan - umm, I mean Vulcan, killing Princess Leia's father - I mean, Spock's mother. And then the Death Star homes in on the Rebel Base - Umm, I mean the mining ship homes in on Starfleet headquarters, and only Luke Skywalker can stop it by ignoring orders and turning off his targeting computer and trusting the Force - no, I mean only Jim Kirk can stop it by ignoring Starfleet's orders and trusting his instincts. It's a good thing Old Ben Kenobi was there to give Kirk that fatherly advice earlier - no, wait, that was Captain Pike.”

Brilliant review, almost certainly a star trek fanboy with a bee in his bonnet! He does have a point but who cares when the film is just so much fun!

What I Thought:

I can understand the fanboys point of view, it’s not a good feeling when someone comes along and messes with the formula of something your fanatic about. There has to be a line drawn somewhere though, Star Trek is a great film forget reboot or re imagining or whatever, it’s an entertaining popcorn blockbuster. Just because some fan has got on their high horse about some plot holes and it being different from the original should not put anyone off seeing it.

JJ Abram’s has pulled something that no one thought he could do, he took a franchise that was dead in the water and gave it a good kick into maximum warp! This Star Trek is the most accessible, not bogged down in science talk or political intrigue just good fun. The casting is the main thing for me, re-casting those iconic characters must have been one hell of a task but every actor shouldered the responsibility really well. Each one bringing back the characters with youth and energy only added to the lightning pace screenplay.

For more on Star Trek form me you can check out the review on the right…

A great start to the summer season.

Lovers:
“Iron Man 2 is the perfect summer film. It is one of the few sequels that actually meets the standards set by the original. Overall, it’s lighthearted and fun, but has just enough elements of many genres (action, comedy, romance and science fiction, mainly) to make it appeal to almost everyone.”

Katie Rossomano @ Daily Titan

I completely agree with this review, much like the one bellow you should check out the whole review though.

Haters:
“I don’t know what went on behind the scenes while the film was being made but rumours of reshoots and recuts have been swirling around the internet. Was this the film director Jon Favreau wanted to make? I doubt it. After Elf, the underrated Zathura and the first instalment, he’s proved himself a capable pair of hands. Perhaps the blame lies higher up the studio food chain.”

David Edwards @ the Mirror

Hmm a little harsh don’t you think? The rest of this guys review is pretty damning so I won’t indulge him by showing all of it!

What I thought:
When the first Iron Man came out, it caught a lot of people with their trousers down. It was a smash hit directed by someone not known for Summer tent poles and starred an actor better known for off-screen antics. It worked for that reason, John Favreau directed it not as summer blockbuster but just an interesting film that has a superhero in it albeit a flawed one. Robert Downey Jnr brought his roughish appeal to Tony Stark and funnily enough that’s exactly how he is in the comics.

With that perfect formula a sequel was in the bag and expectations were high. Well I of course speak for myself but I loved it, everything the first one was and more! Mr Downey Jnr channels his bad days to convince as the boozing Tony Stark and yet again brings out laughs in the most un-expected places, Gwyneth Paltrow despite rumoured disputes is funnier in this film and less highly strung. Don Cheadle does himself a favour and ignores the role in the first film to make War Machine his own.

The bad guys are brilliant too, Whiplash may be a bit stereo-typical Russian bad guy but he’s great! My only gripe is that I thought he deserved more screen time as Mickey Rourke clearly relished the role! Sam Rockwell is one of the stand outs for me, he’s one of my favourite actors and in this he channels Downy Jnr’s Stark only minus any charisma!

Apart from that everything was better, the director had a better hand over action after cutting his teeth on the first one and he’s always been great and handling dialogue. Now avoiding the link to the Avengers and Scarlet Johanssen and Samuel L Jackson is a bit like an elephant in the room! It does bring me to the biggest problem people have with it, that it is used more of a set up to the avengers than its own film?

I agree with them to a certain degree I just don’t think it’s a bad thing! Introducing this whole sub plot of the “arc reactor” poisoning him is a bit paper thin but it works. Perhaps it’s because I’m a marvel fan and love the characters crossing over! Either way I think it’s besides the point as even if it is a link it’s an entertaining one.