Gremlins (1984)

A horror/comedy that stands proudly as a revered cult classic.

Few creatures in the history of cinema have become so synonymous with chaotic hilarity! They are cheeky and cute on the one hand, and murderous and evil on the other, but either way, Gremlins, directed by Joe Dante, has a brilliant nostalgia about it.

Watching this at the Film4 Summer Screen on Saturday night, my expectations were low. I did not enjoy this film as a youngster and thought, with time, it would have grown into a revolting blotch on the list of films from my childhood memory. However, I am pleased to say, that I thoroughly enjoyed the silliness, the sentiment, and the stunts. It was a pleasure to see a film just being brilliantly entertaining and not taking itself too seriously. While the plot is ridiculous and the acting is far from Oscar-winning, there is such a heart to it, a warm fuzziness about Gizmo and his brethren of wrong-doers that has seen the film become sweeter with age.

The musical score is enticing, linking scene-to-scene with a masterful ease, and the moments of slap-stick horror are genuine laugh-out-loud moments - such as the bit where the woman flies out the window…gut-wrenchingly funny!

Don’t expect much, but watch this film with a few of your mates who remember it from your youth, have a few beers, and drink every time you laugh!

The Town (2010)

Forget everything you feel about Ben Affleck, this is the mother of redemptions.

Based in Affleck’s hometown of Boston, Ben plays Doug McRay, a career bank-robber, whose father was also a famous criminal. He is part of a crew from the Charlestown area of Boston, which is notorious for breeding delinquents.

After a semi successful heist of a local bank, Doug becomes involved with one of the workers from the bank called Claire, whom they took hostage during their getaway. Initially, his interest is to learn about her dealings with the police and FBI in order to asses whether she needs “dealing with”. However, Claire soon sparks a fire inside Doug which causes a tremendous battle within him of whether to remain in the criminal world he knows so well, or to break free and move to Florida.

In Doug’s life, there is also his adopted brother Jim (Jeremy Renner). A volatile member of the crew, Jim makes Doug’s choice even more difficult, by upping the ante as it were within their career. He constantly takes the violent route with victims and the police, and his reckless, almost suicidal nature makes him a very loose cannon for the Charlestown crew. The back story of how Jim went to prison for nine years explains a great deal about his character, and also about his relationship with Doug.

Doug finds his life in chaos as the FBI increase their investigation into his life and his crew, whilst he struggles to juggle the desire for the freedom of a new life, with the restrictions of the one he has.

The film is a superb dive into the heartbreaking world of lower-class, city America. The lives these people live seem painfully predetermined, and the choices they make are not as black-and-white as we may think. Doug’s internal conflict we see repeated in many of the other characters, and the choices he has made in the past are reflected by the lifestyle he now seems chained to.

Affleck has approached this film with a loving familiarity, being his hometown. The characters he portrays are probably ones he knew, or knew about growing up, and the interaction seems extremely genuine. Although, fair warning, the accents are thicker than paint, you may need subtitles.

Whilst the overall plot of this film may seem predictable, with typical themes and a usual structure, it is a movie that is more about the conflict of these characters, and the options they have available to them in the so-called land of opportunity. They are developed well through the story, and few moments are wasted on sentimentality or pointless diversions. A wonderful accomplishment for a relatively new director.

Number 6 on the list, another win.

Resident Evil (2002)

Based on the popular video game, Resident Evil is about a group of paramilitary soldiers fighting against a supercomputer, and a whole load of zombie-like scientists.

Starring Milla Jovovich as the amnesia-stricken Alice, who wakes up to a bunch of armed professionals storming her house after she wakes up without any idea of her past. The “house” though, is actually a secret entrance to an underground city, where the evil Umbrella Group are carrying out genetic and military testing for weapons which will be both expensive and devastating to mankind.

However, the city has been wiped out by the computer, Red Queen, who turned on its population with gases and flooding. Now, the group of soldiers, accompanied by Alice and a few other stragglers, head for the computer’s HQ with the idea of shutting her down. Once inside though, things get very Dawn of the Dead very quickly. Flesh-eating scientists appear and attack the group, whilst the computer tries to defend itself with some amazing weapons of its own.

It is an average film with a few brilliant bits. You could take a couple of the sequences and put them into one of the other billion zombie films, and it would add a great deal to it. However, Resident Evil is not much more than a mediocre gore-thriller. The plot, whilst perfect for a game scenario, is extremely flat within a film, as it takes what should be a very simple story, and stretches it out until it becomes very flimsy and see-through. Milla Jovovich is the saving grace, both within the plot and the film, her performance is worth mentioning, and her character is definitely the most interesting part of the film. Apart from Jovovich, the performances are pretty mundane, although I would give credit to Michelle Rodriguez who plays Rain, who manages to give some depth to what is otherwise a very shallow group of supporting actors.

Furthermore, it is not very often that you could criticise the acting of someone playing a zombie, but within the film, many of the extras were very much slow on the uptake. Some made half-hearted grabs at the heroes, others were barely paying attention, which made the threat seem farcical.

A few good scenes include the part where a laser shoots from one side of the room to the other, slicing anything that gets in its way. It was fantastic to see part of someone’s face just slide off! Another was when Alice learned of her abilities to kick ass, and twisted one of the mutants necks with her legs…superb.

Worth a watch if you love zombie flicks, but I can think of several others worth watching before this one!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II (2011)

It is very difficult to avoid using clichéd adjectives when talking about Harry Potter films. Words like “magical”, “spell-binding”, and “enchanting” get thrown around like spells in a wand-fight. This being said, all of them are fitting for this last movie, which is a spectacular ending to the most successful franchise of all time.

At the end of the previous film, we see the death of Dobby the house-elf, and the trio on their way to destroying the soul of Lord Voldemort. Chasing the Horcruxes has been a dangerous and exhausting journey, and one with still a lot of ground to cover at the beginning of the film, but Harry, Ron and Hermione will be returning to familiar settings for the final showdown: Hogwarts. The battle between the Death Eaters and The Order seems hugely one-sided, but the protection of the school for wizards offers some glimmer of hope for the struggling heroes. Harry faces harsh truths about himself, and those closest to him, whilst making his way to a deathly confrontation with his nemesis.

Characters we have lived with for ten years will face their biggest challenges, some will not survive the film, and others will be changed forever. As a follow on, part two does not need much building up, the story carries straight on, and the tempo is unrelenting. Battle scenes, emotional revelations and explosive stunts make this the most action-packed movie yet. The acting is better than ever, with only a few cringe-worthy moments where we are reminded that many of these child actors were chosen primarily for their resemblance to characters, not their prowess. Although the major hitters like Maggie Smith and Alan Rickman remain on top form.

The film is a brilliant example of cinematic excellence, how films can still have the power to affect us on a deep level. Few stories of this calibre will emerge in our lifetime, and the film industry has done this extraordinary collection of books proud. There are truly touching moments, brilliant special effects, wonderfully emotive music, and an atmosphere of complete fantasy that is extremely difficult to pull off.

If you enjoyed the Harry Potter books you may find the absence of certain side plots irritating, and the addition of certain scenes annoying. But, it is important to remember how many pages they needed to cover in a short space of time, it is a terrifying feat. Although, I would argue this film could have been another thirty minutes longer! Some who have not read the books will inevitably get very confused, the plot can seem like an ever-growing animal that keeps running away from you, but this should only encourage you to read the original material.

Few movies will emerge this year with enough cinematic perfection as Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II. I urge everyone to see this movie at the cinema, as it deserves your full attention on the big screen. And, if you are like-minded to the people who attended the showing I did last night, you will be clapping as the credits roll.

The Social Network (2010)

At number four on my list of films to watch, is the social drama The Social Network, directed by David Fincher.

The inescapable phenomenon of Facebook has dominated mass culture for the last few years. Its impact on the world has been astounding, so a big Hollywood film about it seems inevitable. However, this movie is not about saying “look how cool and popular FB is, and how much we all use it”, but rather exploring the birth of the most famous website of all time, its creator, and the impact it had on everyone involved with its release into the world.

Jesse Eisenberg plays the brilliantly awkward Mark Zuckerberg, arguably the creator of Facebook, and one of the richest men on the planet. We find him at university, where he spends his time hacking into computers, playing IT-based pranks, and attempting adult relationships. He, and his best friend Eduardo (Andrew Garfield), soon begin work to create a website that would emulate the social experience of College life online (I don’t need to go into the ins and outs of FB, you all know about statuses, posts, and friends). Simultaneously, Eisenberg was asked to help a group of students to create a similar website, that dealt with online dating. As the notorious, and unprecedented, growth of Facebook began to change all of these peoples lives, a serious battle began for ownership and money.

Lawyers are brought in, and the film plays out in a series of memories whilst the characters are debating around a table. A murky chain of events soon emerges, and we learn how all these characters came to believe their version of what happened.

Justin Timberlake plays the effortlessly cool Sean Parker, the creator of the infamous music download site Napster, who enters the arena originally as a philosophical voice and guide, but soon tries to get his piece of the pie.

A great story, that is uncompromising in its telling. Rather than pandering to scenes of action and tension, Fincher has opted for a more intimate film with an extremely smart script. Several of the quotes are worth framing! Eisenberg is perfect for the role, which is very difficult to perform: a person who is essentially an un-likeable nerd but also the hero of the film. Timberlake does well to avoid a clichéd performance of rock star-cum-movie star, and adds a level of spark to the drama. My favourite performance, however, is Andrew Garfield, who is quickly becoming a rising star in the movie world. His display of acting abilities in this film is varied and deep, making his character a vivid and interesting one. The film uses some excellent music, and has provocative filming techniques to seem like you are intruding in on these characters lives.

A film you need to be in the mood for, it is two hours of drama. However, for those of you who attempt it, your will find a wonderful script, some excellent cinematography and worthy performances. It is a wonderful addition to the list, and my fondness for Fincher goes undisturbed.

The Green Lantern (2011)

Ryan Reynolds as the green hero, in the newest comic-book film to take the screen.

As DC and Marvel continue to dominate cinemas across the world, this newest film has follows a long line of comic flicks, and comes out somewhere in the middle.

The plot is a rather long-winded tale of a group of higher beings, Lanterns, who are guardians for all different species. Each race across the universe has one Green Lantern, who owns a special ring and lantern that give them the power to imagine special abilities, and use them to defend all living things from evil. When the darkness of fear presents itself in the form of Parallax, who is a fallen member of the council who overlook the politics of the universe, the Green Lanterns face their greatest threat.

Ryan Reynolds plays a cocky Air Force pilot Hal Jordan, who seems fearless in all his endeavours, except when it comes to things that matter. His reckless lifestyle seems mismatched with that of a Lantern, but the ring chooses him after its owner crashes on Earth and dies. Now, as Hal begins to learn how to utilize his new powers, he must battle both the evil he encounters and the disapproving Lanterns he is now a part of.

A worthy comic film, that has some amazing special effects and pace. The script can be a little tough on the ears in places, but Reynolds does well not to play his typical role of smart-ass hunk. The visuals are very pleasing on the eyes.

One to watch if you liked Iron Man, Thor and Hancock.

Paul (2011)

Sci-Fi adventure from the classic comedy duo Simon Pegg and Nick Frost.

As a huge fan of Hot Fuzz (2007) and Shaun of the Dead (2004) respectively, my expectations for this Alien-based comedy were quite high. Fortunately, the film boasts an hilarious script, quick action, and a tender heart to the story.

Pegg and Frost play two hopeless Science Fiction fans, Graeme and Clive, who are on their way across America to visit all the best geeky hotspots: like Area 51 and Comicon. During their trip, they have a chance encounter with an Alien…called Paul. He landed in the USA decades ago, and has spent his time on Earth providing useful information to the intelligence agencies, until he decided to escape. Paul is now on the run from ruthless FBI agents and has to rely on Graeme and Clive (and their RV) to survive.

A brilliant road-trip movie that brings together great action, touching characters, and laugh-out-loud moments. Paul, voiced by Seth Rogen, is undoubtedly the best thing about this movie. His potty-mouth, hippy lifestyle, and insufferable approach to religion makes him a very likeable character.

Even though I was really rooting for them, hoping the two Brits would avoid little-fish-big-pond syndrome, Pegg and Frost are not on top form with their performances, with some cringe-worthy moments of extremely wooden acting, and they let down some of the scenes. Very often they are outshone by their American counterparts, who seem to cope well with the film’s style and script. This being said, they are still the heart of the story, and provide some great moments of bro-mance and hilarity.

Requiem For A Dream (2000)

At number 14 on my list of films to see, is another by Darren Aronofsky, and one that takes a disturbing glance at the effects of drug addiction and obsession.

Set in the forgotten decay of Coney Island, the film follows four people who live amongst the down-and-suffering. Jared Leto plays Harry Goldfarb, a young drug addict in love. He and his girlfriend Marion (Jennifer Connelly) spend their days shooting up, living the highs, and planning their epic future. Harry’s best friend, and business partner, Tyrone (Marlon Wayans), is also a drug addict, but one with problems with the law, and mother issues. Including in this quartet of troubled individuals is Harry’s mother Sara, a woman obsessed with television.

The plot follows a similar structure to a high, as the effects of their addictions and obsessions seem harmless to begin with, even euphoric. Harry and Marion bask in their love and recreations, Tyrone enjoys the spoils of money and success, while Sara is ecstatic with the prospect of being on television. However, the four soon encounter huge amounts of stress and panic as their dreams become nightmares. Harry and Marion’s relationship becomes an intense battle for the next hit, Tyrone becomes mixed with the wrong crowd, and Sara struggles with her desire to look good on television. All pop way to many pills, and all become dark, disfigured versions of themselves.

It is a brilliant exploration into the crippling world of drug addiction, and also into obsession. Aronofsky definitely has a penchant for delving deep into the human psyche, and finding the elements which traumatize most individuals.

The filming techniques used are plentiful, with tons of duel scenes, sped-up shots, and quick cut scenes. Aronofsky seems to have wanted to place his mark heavily on this film, and it could be viewed as a negative.

It is a hard film to watch, not one for the faint of heart, but one that has a truly engaging plot, and displays the versatility of the film form. Daring and bold.

Black Swan (2010)

One of the most anticipated films of last year, it follows the beautifully tortuous world of one ballet dancer as she tries to maintain her balance in one of the most pressurized and gruelling industries in the world.

Director Darren Aronofsky is one of the most interesting directors currently on the scene. Having watched his stunning movie The Wrestler (2008) and fallen in love with everything about it, my expectations were extremely high for this follow up.

Natalie Portman plays the talented ballet dancer Nina Sayers, who is on the verge of becoming the newest star in her company’s production of Swan Lake. However, Nina experiences extreme amounts of criticism and pressure from all angles. First of all, her mother who seems to hold an undisguised grudge against her daughter, after she had to give up her career as a dancer to raise Nina. Secondly, the company director Thomas Leroy (Vincent Cassel) who constantly harangues Nina for not portraying the black swan perfectly, and who also pushes Nina both professionally and personally. And thirdly, the rest of the company: girls who eagerly compete for the leading role, and who will do anything for success.

However, as the story progresses it becomes clear that not all is what it seems. Nina’s life becomes a confusing regiment of ballet drills, disturbing dreams, and a fellow dancer called Lily (Mila Kunis) who seems determined to scheme against her. The paranoia and hallucinations become more extreme with every development, as the finale approaches.

An expertly made film, one that is uncompromising in its vision and bold in its direction. Aronofsky is unrelenting with his moments of toe-curling horror which contrast well with the film’s cultured context. Portman is astounding in her role, a performance well deserved of its accolades. And both Cassel and Kunis provide excellent support throughout, tackling some extremely difficult scenes with artistic merit.

Not a film for anyone expecting a cheery film about ballet dancing, this is a film delving deep into a troubled mind and a world of anguish. However, if you appreciate filmmaking, directorial brilliance, and amazing performances it is definitely worth a watch.

No 2 on the “List” - COMPLETED

Flight Plan (2005)

Panic Room meets Snakes on a Plane as Jodie Foster has her child stolen whilst aboard a flight from Germany to the U.S.

From the trailers this film intrigued viewers, it has a tense plot, an interesting premise, and a decent cast, but there was a worrying doubt that it would look more like the latter of the films aforementioned. Luckily, this is not the case, Flight Plan is a fast-paced thrilling movie that is full of action and suspense.

The story is of mother bringing the body of her husband back from Berlin for burial. With her is her traumatized daughter who is terrified of everything, especially flying. Once in the air, the mother goes to the bathroom and returns to find her daughter missing. Her pleas to flight staff fall on deaf ears when it is revealed that her daughter is not on the flight’s manifest. And when pilot Sean Bean does some research and discovers that her daughter apparently died with her father, the situation…excuse me…takes off!

A great film that entertains from beginning to end. It does not let off at any point, and Foster is brilliant in her role (albeit very similar to the role she played in Panic Room). The plot is somewhat unbelievable, but they piece it together well.

An enjoyable “journey” for anyone afraid of planes, abduction, bio-terrorism, or ghosts.