As the Harry Potter franchise nears its end, the penultimate film is the darkest, and most enjoyable film so far.
The film sees the famous trio, Harry Ron and Hermione, battle against Voldemort's underlings after the death of Professor Dumbledor in the previous film. This time, the action takes place away from Hogwarts, the magical school, and in the real world of modern Britain.
A stunning production, with many scenes utilizing the horror that occurs in the book to full effect. The characters are developed well, and there is a sense of clarity that a couple of the other films seemed to lack. Performance wise, Daniel Radcliff as Harry Potter gives his most impressive yet, and Emma Watson is worthy of mention, as the film offers more of her story this time, allowing for a deeper portrayal.
As with any story split into two parts, the Deathly Hallows part one, will make audiences yearn for the next installment, and if this film is anything to measure by, I cannot wait for the final adventure!
In association with UK FILM REVIEW
Wednesday, 22 December 2010
Sunday, 5 December 2010
300 (2006)
Epic graphic novel translation, with cinematic beauty.
Director Zach Snyder must have spent months slowing footage down to make this film, most of the action shots are gory, slow-paced comic-book visuals of spears piercing skin and swords decapitating heads. The story of the 300 Spartans who faced the Persian army is deeply rooted in ancient Greek mythology, and the original graphic novel by Frank Miller uses the story to create a vibrant, violent tale that appeals to a modern audience. The film does not disappoint.
With a gutsy production of imaginative fight sequences, amazing characters, and inspiring storyline, the film should be revered as one of the most impressive films of the 21st Century. High praise, I know, but few films affect me the way this one has. It is a film that takes heroism, pride, bravery, loyalty, and faith and pits it them against tyranny, brutality, slavery, and greed. The epic battle is given a cinematic beauty that seems years ahead of its time, and the punchlines, which on paper would seem silly, work well to enthuse these ideas of patriotism and heroism.
Director Zach Snyder must have spent months slowing footage down to make this film, most of the action shots are gory, slow-paced comic-book visuals of spears piercing skin and swords decapitating heads. The story of the 300 Spartans who faced the Persian army is deeply rooted in ancient Greek mythology, and the original graphic novel by Frank Miller uses the story to create a vibrant, violent tale that appeals to a modern audience. The film does not disappoint.
With a gutsy production of imaginative fight sequences, amazing characters, and inspiring storyline, the film should be revered as one of the most impressive films of the 21st Century. High praise, I know, but few films affect me the way this one has. It is a film that takes heroism, pride, bravery, loyalty, and faith and pits it them against tyranny, brutality, slavery, and greed. The epic battle is given a cinematic beauty that seems years ahead of its time, and the punchlines, which on paper would seem silly, work well to enthuse these ideas of patriotism and heroism.
Four Christmases (2008)
It is the holiday season, so Christmas films are filling our televisions with joy and cheer!
Any movie with a Christmas storyline automatically faces many limitations. The setting has to be around December, usually with winter weather, and there has to be an element of overcoming adversity in order to enjoy the most magical day of the year. Seth Gordon's Four Christmases starring Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn definitely succumbs to the boundaries of the genre, but manages to create a film which delves into the pressure that relationships suffer from during Christmas.
Brad (Vaughn) and Kate (Witherspoon) are a couple who do everything together! They go on holidays, couples massages, dancing lessons...they even skip Christmas with each other. Every year they concoct a plan to avoid dealing with their complicated families, and fly off to some tropical island to wait out the season. However, their plans go awry when their flight is cancelled and their families see them on the news still in the country, now Brad and Kate are forced to spend Christmas visiting all four of their divorced parents.
Initially emerging as a comedy, the film develops into a more intricate exploration of the family unit. Kate struggles with her issues over parenthood, while Brad has to face the prospect of finally growing up emotionally.
A half-decent Christmas film that avoids the typical clichés, and there are some slapstick moments which are hilarious. Worth a watch on a lazy Sunday!
Any movie with a Christmas storyline automatically faces many limitations. The setting has to be around December, usually with winter weather, and there has to be an element of overcoming adversity in order to enjoy the most magical day of the year. Seth Gordon's Four Christmases starring Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn definitely succumbs to the boundaries of the genre, but manages to create a film which delves into the pressure that relationships suffer from during Christmas.
Brad (Vaughn) and Kate (Witherspoon) are a couple who do everything together! They go on holidays, couples massages, dancing lessons...they even skip Christmas with each other. Every year they concoct a plan to avoid dealing with their complicated families, and fly off to some tropical island to wait out the season. However, their plans go awry when their flight is cancelled and their families see them on the news still in the country, now Brad and Kate are forced to spend Christmas visiting all four of their divorced parents.
Initially emerging as a comedy, the film develops into a more intricate exploration of the family unit. Kate struggles with her issues over parenthood, while Brad has to face the prospect of finally growing up emotionally.
A half-decent Christmas film that avoids the typical clichés, and there are some slapstick moments which are hilarious. Worth a watch on a lazy Sunday!
Sunday, 28 November 2010
Toy Story 3 (2010)
Woody and Buzz are back for the third installment of animated greatness!
Toy Story (1995) was an immense achievement for cinema, not just animation. It was the first film made entirely from animation, and is one of the most successful movies of all time. The story of toys who come to life whenever humans are not around, struck a chord with almost everyone, and characters like Sheriff Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Mr Potato Head have become synonymous with childhood innocence. The franchise appeals to viewers of all ages, and this newest addition is outstanding.
In the third film, the owner of the toys Andy is now grown up, and about to leave for college. Woody and the gang worry about their fate, hoping for a comfy stay in the attic together, and preying they do not end up being donated, or worse, thrown away! A mix up with the packing sees the group being sent to a day care centre, and now Woody must attempt to save his buddies, whilst convincing them of Andy's intentions.
A disillusioned bear, called Lotso, appears initially to be a welcoming new leader of the day care, who will make sure the new group of toys are happy in their new life. However, it becomes clear that this day care centre, is more like a prison, and Lotso is actually a heartless warden. Woody must come up with a plan to escape the day care, and also get back to Andy before he leaves.
The film surpasses its own reputation with graphics, with a cinematography that encompasses vibrant colours, lively suburbia, and a variety of interesting characters. The voices are crisp and clear, with such a great cast that viewers are not distracted by celebrity, and more entranced by performance. The coming of age of Andy makes for a poignant story, along with the entertaining peril and action sequences.
A heart-warming, rich film that embodies all that is great about family films, animation, and cinema.
Toy Story (1995) was an immense achievement for cinema, not just animation. It was the first film made entirely from animation, and is one of the most successful movies of all time. The story of toys who come to life whenever humans are not around, struck a chord with almost everyone, and characters like Sheriff Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Mr Potato Head have become synonymous with childhood innocence. The franchise appeals to viewers of all ages, and this newest addition is outstanding.
In the third film, the owner of the toys Andy is now grown up, and about to leave for college. Woody and the gang worry about their fate, hoping for a comfy stay in the attic together, and preying they do not end up being donated, or worse, thrown away! A mix up with the packing sees the group being sent to a day care centre, and now Woody must attempt to save his buddies, whilst convincing them of Andy's intentions.
A disillusioned bear, called Lotso, appears initially to be a welcoming new leader of the day care, who will make sure the new group of toys are happy in their new life. However, it becomes clear that this day care centre, is more like a prison, and Lotso is actually a heartless warden. Woody must come up with a plan to escape the day care, and also get back to Andy before he leaves.
The film surpasses its own reputation with graphics, with a cinematography that encompasses vibrant colours, lively suburbia, and a variety of interesting characters. The voices are crisp and clear, with such a great cast that viewers are not distracted by celebrity, and more entranced by performance. The coming of age of Andy makes for a poignant story, along with the entertaining peril and action sequences.
A heart-warming, rich film that embodies all that is great about family films, animation, and cinema.
Wednesday, 24 November 2010
9 (2009)
Directed by Shane Acker, this animated dystopia follows the struggle of nine rag dolls, who have survived a war that destroyed the world, leaving only murderous machines to prey upon the wreckage.
Each rag doll has a number, rather than a name, and each has their own particular personality trait, such as 2, a wise, old handy-man, or 7, a rough rebel. The main character, predictably, is 9 (voiced by Elijah Wood), who is in search of answers, as well as being determined to save his fellow rag dolls. As the journey leads the rag dolls deeper into this apocalyptic landfill, larger questions regarding humanity, and its mistakes, emerge.
This animated film tries very hard to be different from other such films, like Pixar. It is dark, edgy, and painfully poignant, with Tim Burton attached as a producer...would you expect anything different? The film started as a college project for Acker, and was a 6 minute short film, and once it gained notoriety, a feature length was developed, the fear was that it would not work as a film that long. Ironically, my opinion is that it needed to be longer! Characters go undeveloped, the plot seems overshadowed by action scenes, and the ending seems contrived, which is such a shame, as the premise is awesome.
On the plus side, there is a sentiment to the film which appeals, and the danger which the rag dolls face is ever-present, making for a gripping view. It is absolutely stunning to look at, however Burton's opinion that a silent movie would have been more effective seems correct, the dialogue seems to render the film neutral, rather than a punch in the stomach.
Each rag doll has a number, rather than a name, and each has their own particular personality trait, such as 2, a wise, old handy-man, or 7, a rough rebel. The main character, predictably, is 9 (voiced by Elijah Wood), who is in search of answers, as well as being determined to save his fellow rag dolls. As the journey leads the rag dolls deeper into this apocalyptic landfill, larger questions regarding humanity, and its mistakes, emerge.
This animated film tries very hard to be different from other such films, like Pixar. It is dark, edgy, and painfully poignant, with Tim Burton attached as a producer...would you expect anything different? The film started as a college project for Acker, and was a 6 minute short film, and once it gained notoriety, a feature length was developed, the fear was that it would not work as a film that long. Ironically, my opinion is that it needed to be longer! Characters go undeveloped, the plot seems overshadowed by action scenes, and the ending seems contrived, which is such a shame, as the premise is awesome.
On the plus side, there is a sentiment to the film which appeals, and the danger which the rag dolls face is ever-present, making for a gripping view. It is absolutely stunning to look at, however Burton's opinion that a silent movie would have been more effective seems correct, the dialogue seems to render the film neutral, rather than a punch in the stomach.
Monday, 22 November 2010
I Love You, Man (2009)
A truly Bro-Mantic tale, that is hilarious and poignant.
When Paul Rudd gets engaged to his beautiful fiancé, it occurs to him that he has no one to be his best man, so he goes in search of some male friends. When he meets painfully honest, and slightly crazy, Sydney (Jason Segel), Peter (Rudd) enters a dangerous relationship that will test boundaries of acceptable social behaviour.
Director John Hamburg has avoided the clichés and pitfalls that so many new comedies hit face on, and created a superb movie that is funny, original, and relevant. Rudd is brilliant as the awkward groom-to-be, whose try-hard attributes make him a likeable and entertaining character. Segel is excellent as the off-beat antagonist, whose zany perception on life makes for great viewing.
With some many films looking at the complexities of female lives, it is refreshing to see a film which looks at male relationships in the modern world. A great film that deserves appreciation.
When Paul Rudd gets engaged to his beautiful fiancé, it occurs to him that he has no one to be his best man, so he goes in search of some male friends. When he meets painfully honest, and slightly crazy, Sydney (Jason Segel), Peter (Rudd) enters a dangerous relationship that will test boundaries of acceptable social behaviour.
Director John Hamburg has avoided the clichés and pitfalls that so many new comedies hit face on, and created a superb movie that is funny, original, and relevant. Rudd is brilliant as the awkward groom-to-be, whose try-hard attributes make him a likeable and entertaining character. Segel is excellent as the off-beat antagonist, whose zany perception on life makes for great viewing.
With some many films looking at the complexities of female lives, it is refreshing to see a film which looks at male relationships in the modern world. A great film that deserves appreciation.
Coming To America (1988)
Eddie Murphy...an African prince?
This classic comedy from the eighties, sees Eddie Murphy as the heir to the throne in Zamunda, who goes to Queens in New York City in search of a wife who will offer him intelligence and integrity deserving of a Queen. Going undercover as a poor African student, his search sees him enter the world of working class life in Black America.
What is brilliant about this film, is the discourse that it opens about modern America, where issues of race and class are always open. Murphy encounters a wide variety of prejudice, and his comedic take on this is hugely entertaining.
A devilishly funny film, where the laughs are clever and outrageous at the same time.
This classic comedy from the eighties, sees Eddie Murphy as the heir to the throne in Zamunda, who goes to Queens in New York City in search of a wife who will offer him intelligence and integrity deserving of a Queen. Going undercover as a poor African student, his search sees him enter the world of working class life in Black America.
What is brilliant about this film, is the discourse that it opens about modern America, where issues of race and class are always open. Murphy encounters a wide variety of prejudice, and his comedic take on this is hugely entertaining.
A devilishly funny film, where the laughs are clever and outrageous at the same time.
Let The Right One In (2008)
Cult vampire film set in the chilling suburbia of Sweden.
Remade recently by Matt Reeves, and called Let Me In, the original film was directed by Thomas Alfredson and based on a novel. The film is about a young boy struggling at school with bullies, and an isolated home life, who befriends a very old vampire, who looks like a young girl. While the boy attempts to summon the courage to deal with his enemies, the girl has her guardian roam the streets looking for people to kill, and then drain the blood to survive. A slow, rich film that focuses on the isolation and loneliness of youth, rather than the sex appeal of blood lust.
The film is unfaltering in its dedication to authenticity, and uses the landscape and culture of Sweden to its benefit. Avoiding being gory and explicit, the movie does not fit the guidelines of the horror genre, and is more a dramatic tale of two children caught up in a dark world.
If you like vampire films, it is an original take on the genre, but do not expect the populism of Twilight, or the flashiness of TV programs like True Blood. Also, be prepared for some reading, subtitles galore, although this enhanced the film for me.
A very interesting film, which is original, authentic, and engaging....Let Me In is more impressive though!
Remade recently by Matt Reeves, and called Let Me In, the original film was directed by Thomas Alfredson and based on a novel. The film is about a young boy struggling at school with bullies, and an isolated home life, who befriends a very old vampire, who looks like a young girl. While the boy attempts to summon the courage to deal with his enemies, the girl has her guardian roam the streets looking for people to kill, and then drain the blood to survive. A slow, rich film that focuses on the isolation and loneliness of youth, rather than the sex appeal of blood lust.
The film is unfaltering in its dedication to authenticity, and uses the landscape and culture of Sweden to its benefit. Avoiding being gory and explicit, the movie does not fit the guidelines of the horror genre, and is more a dramatic tale of two children caught up in a dark world.
If you like vampire films, it is an original take on the genre, but do not expect the populism of Twilight, or the flashiness of TV programs like True Blood. Also, be prepared for some reading, subtitles galore, although this enhanced the film for me.
A very interesting film, which is original, authentic, and engaging....Let Me In is more impressive though!
Juno (2007)
A brilliant, quirky comedy.
Set in small town America, Juno is the story of a quirky teenager (Juno - played by Ellen Page), who becomes pregnant after sleeping with her awkward friend Paulie Bleeker (Michael Cera). Juno decides to explore the option of donating her child to a couple looking to adopt, and finds a promising pair in the local paper. As the nine months elapse, the story becomes even more complicated and emotional.
Made with a superb Indie influence, director Jason Reitman has created an understated masterpiece. The cast are truly impressive, especially Ellen Page, who has continued to stand out in her career. The witty script is brought to life with Page's outstanding penchant for delivery and timing, as well as the supporting cast. Music is an important aspect of this film, and the acoustic tracks create an atmosphere which reflect the story brilliantly, with off-beat tunes and zany lyrics. Most importantly, this film discusses one of the most important issues facing modern American society, teenage pregnancy, but does it in a way that is compassionate and entertaining and funny.
I struggle to find anything bad about this film, and I refuse to pick things for the sake of it. It is a wonderful movie about the boredom of youth, the emotion of childbirth, and the pain of relationships. Excellent viewing.
Set in small town America, Juno is the story of a quirky teenager (Juno - played by Ellen Page), who becomes pregnant after sleeping with her awkward friend Paulie Bleeker (Michael Cera). Juno decides to explore the option of donating her child to a couple looking to adopt, and finds a promising pair in the local paper. As the nine months elapse, the story becomes even more complicated and emotional.
Made with a superb Indie influence, director Jason Reitman has created an understated masterpiece. The cast are truly impressive, especially Ellen Page, who has continued to stand out in her career. The witty script is brought to life with Page's outstanding penchant for delivery and timing, as well as the supporting cast. Music is an important aspect of this film, and the acoustic tracks create an atmosphere which reflect the story brilliantly, with off-beat tunes and zany lyrics. Most importantly, this film discusses one of the most important issues facing modern American society, teenage pregnancy, but does it in a way that is compassionate and entertaining and funny.
I struggle to find anything bad about this film, and I refuse to pick things for the sake of it. It is a wonderful movie about the boredom of youth, the emotion of childbirth, and the pain of relationships. Excellent viewing.
Monday, 15 November 2010
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009)
With the upcoming cinematic release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One, I take a look at the 6th installment of the magical franchise.
I am a fan of the books, and a fan of the films. I realise many Rowling-lovers are outraged by the films, due to the changing and deletion of events, but I think it is important to see the two mediums separately.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is the best film of the series, it has a sinister style which gives the film credibility, and the infamous trio (Daniel Radcliff, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint) pull of their most impressive performances. Harry (Radcliff), in his sixth year at Hogwarts (the magical school), continues his battle against the dark force of the Death Eaters, led by Voldemort, in which he attempts to learn more about his nemesis as well as cope with the trials of his famous life.
The film is excellent in terms of looks, style, cast, and music. Everything has an original appearance which make the Potter films instantly recognisable, and have given them an enduring existence. I still have problems with the script, but that seems to be a problem relating to the translation between page to screen.
Overall, a film that surpasses expectations, and makes it the most darkly exciting installment so far...
I am a fan of the books, and a fan of the films. I realise many Rowling-lovers are outraged by the films, due to the changing and deletion of events, but I think it is important to see the two mediums separately.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is the best film of the series, it has a sinister style which gives the film credibility, and the infamous trio (Daniel Radcliff, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint) pull of their most impressive performances. Harry (Radcliff), in his sixth year at Hogwarts (the magical school), continues his battle against the dark force of the Death Eaters, led by Voldemort, in which he attempts to learn more about his nemesis as well as cope with the trials of his famous life.
The film is excellent in terms of looks, style, cast, and music. Everything has an original appearance which make the Potter films instantly recognisable, and have given them an enduring existence. I still have problems with the script, but that seems to be a problem relating to the translation between page to screen.
Overall, a film that surpasses expectations, and makes it the most darkly exciting installment so far...
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