Post auscopalyptic? :) Guy Pearce is enough to get me excited to see this one. Looks like an Aussie - "The Road" - 100% filmed in S.A!!
Or better to watch direct from YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChM2icbWo9w
Showing posts with label -Mike-. Show all posts
Showing posts with label -Mike-. Show all posts
The Rover (Preview)
Holy shit! Bout time the Aussies had a crack!
Post auscopalyptic? :) Guy Pearce is enough to get me excited to see this one. Looks like an Aussie - "The Road" - 100% filmed in S.A!!
Or better to watch direct from YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChM2icbWo9w
Post auscopalyptic? :) Guy Pearce is enough to get me excited to see this one. Looks like an Aussie - "The Road" - 100% filmed in S.A!!
Or better to watch direct from YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChM2icbWo9w
The Returned
Yes, another zombie film. But don't sigh just yet as this one is quite refreshingly different. Firstly don't confuse this movie with the French series of the same translated name (Les Revenants) which is pretty decent in it's own right, but not at all related.
Why is this one different? It's actually set in a world AFTER the 'zombie virus' outbreak, where it has been controlled. If an infected is given an antidote within a certain time frame the effects can be reversed. Provided they take their 'medicine' every day all is well and they can live normal lives. These people are referred to as 'The Returned'.
The movie portrays a very believable and realistic future where 'The Returned' are not quite accepted by normal society and seen more like ticking time bombs. Things get a lot worse as it is revealed that the antidote is running out and we can watch the thin threads holding the society together start to break away.
As a lover of most things Zombie (even though the genre has been completely thrashed of late) I really enjoyed this new spin. It was a brilliant script and although obviously low-ish budget, was presented with great cinematography and production. An indy film maker's wet dream really. It was directed by Manuel Carballo who I've not come across before but might be one to keep an eye on.
The majority of acting was 'ok' - however a stand out performance by the lead female - Emily Hampshire really helped carry it across the line.
I recommend giving this one a go if you you're keen for an interesting story and a fresh new take - but be warned there isn't the usual violence and mayhem of a zombie horror.
I only have one complaint. One of the characters drops a case with 60 antidote vials on the ground and every single one of them smashes....... Really? I get we need to build tension with lack of antidote but shiiiiiitt... <insert Marlon Wayans 'shiiiit' from Requiem for a Dream>
7/10
IMDB Info
Why is this one different? It's actually set in a world AFTER the 'zombie virus' outbreak, where it has been controlled. If an infected is given an antidote within a certain time frame the effects can be reversed. Provided they take their 'medicine' every day all is well and they can live normal lives. These people are referred to as 'The Returned'.
The movie portrays a very believable and realistic future where 'The Returned' are not quite accepted by normal society and seen more like ticking time bombs. Things get a lot worse as it is revealed that the antidote is running out and we can watch the thin threads holding the society together start to break away.
As a lover of most things Zombie (even though the genre has been completely thrashed of late) I really enjoyed this new spin. It was a brilliant script and although obviously low-ish budget, was presented with great cinematography and production. An indy film maker's wet dream really. It was directed by Manuel Carballo who I've not come across before but might be one to keep an eye on.
The majority of acting was 'ok' - however a stand out performance by the lead female - Emily Hampshire really helped carry it across the line.
I recommend giving this one a go if you you're keen for an interesting story and a fresh new take - but be warned there isn't the usual violence and mayhem of a zombie horror.
I only have one complaint. One of the characters drops a case with 60 antidote vials on the ground and every single one of them smashes....... Really? I get we need to build tension with lack of antidote but shiiiiiitt... <insert Marlon Wayans 'shiiiit' from Requiem for a Dream>
7/10
IMDB Info
The Necessary Death of Charlie Countryman
"While traveling abroad, a guy falls for a Romanian beauty whose
unreachable heart has its origins in her violent, charismatic ex." (IMDB)
Decent summary really and along the journey of this love story you can enjoy a nice mix of comedy, violence and generally entertaining cinema. Our main guy Charlie played by Shia LaBeouf sets off to Bucharest, Romania for some soul searching after his mums death. After a very strange welcome into the country he meets this 'Romanian Beauty' (played by Evan Rachel Wood in a very decent performance) and things really start to spiral out of control.
Early on in the piece though Charlie makes his way to the Marco Polo youth hostel where he meets up with a couple of party heads from the UK. If you're a fan of either Harry Potter or the Inbetweener's you will love this part as much as I did as these guys are played by Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley) and James Buckley (Jay). They down a shitload of LSD and X and some really funny shit ensues captured well with some great filming and "I'm on drugs" effects. I read that LaBeouf actually took LSD for the scene to make it more authentic, would have been a fun day on set no doubt. A good quote from Buckley - "If I can't take my tin of drugs around with me then the terrorists have already won". True that!
But then things get more serious as Charlie starts inadvertently getting involved with some pretty nasty fellas. The poor bastard cops a lot of beatings but he remains true to the cause. Reminded me a bit of Brick where J.G.L just kept getting pounded into a bloody mess. Full credit to the casting of the bad guys too - Mads Mikkelsen (Hannibal) and Til Schweiger (Inglorious Basterds) ... not a pair you would want to cross in a hurry.
Overall the movie is a bit of muddle but the changing style keeps it quite interesting and the story moves along quick enough. LaBeouf wears a little bit too much dark eye shadow for my liking, makes him look like Khal Drogo but don't let that put you off. It's worth watching just to see Ron Weasley pop 5 viagra.
7/10
IMDB Info
Decent summary really and along the journey of this love story you can enjoy a nice mix of comedy, violence and generally entertaining cinema. Our main guy Charlie played by Shia LaBeouf sets off to Bucharest, Romania for some soul searching after his mums death. After a very strange welcome into the country he meets this 'Romanian Beauty' (played by Evan Rachel Wood in a very decent performance) and things really start to spiral out of control.
Early on in the piece though Charlie makes his way to the Marco Polo youth hostel where he meets up with a couple of party heads from the UK. If you're a fan of either Harry Potter or the Inbetweener's you will love this part as much as I did as these guys are played by Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley) and James Buckley (Jay). They down a shitload of LSD and X and some really funny shit ensues captured well with some great filming and "I'm on drugs" effects. I read that LaBeouf actually took LSD for the scene to make it more authentic, would have been a fun day on set no doubt. A good quote from Buckley - "If I can't take my tin of drugs around with me then the terrorists have already won". True that!
But then things get more serious as Charlie starts inadvertently getting involved with some pretty nasty fellas. The poor bastard cops a lot of beatings but he remains true to the cause. Reminded me a bit of Brick where J.G.L just kept getting pounded into a bloody mess. Full credit to the casting of the bad guys too - Mads Mikkelsen (Hannibal) and Til Schweiger (Inglorious Basterds) ... not a pair you would want to cross in a hurry.
Overall the movie is a bit of muddle but the changing style keeps it quite interesting and the story moves along quick enough. LaBeouf wears a little bit too much dark eye shadow for my liking, makes him look like Khal Drogo but don't let that put you off. It's worth watching just to see Ron Weasley pop 5 viagra.
7/10
IMDB Info
Last Vegas
I wasn't expecting much with one but always love to be proven wrong. As soon as it started it produced a smile on my face and I don't think I stopped smiling for the entire film with some laugh out loud moments as well. Last Vegas is just a great, fun movie. It doesn't try to be anything else.
The film is about a bunch of elderly guys who have been mates since forever hitting up Vegas for a Bachelor party and realizing they're not dead yet! What makes this an absolute success is the chemistry between the 4 main male leads - Robert De Niro, Morgan Freeman, Michael Douglas and Kevin Kline. They nailed it. Their interactions between themselves and with the outside world was natural and hilarious.
All were brilliant but Morgan Freeman was the stand out for me. He played such a great character who was just out for a good time and after a couple of drinks became the kid he was 60 years ago. Together the guys manage to score the penthouse at the Aria and find themselves clubbing, judging bikini contests, throwing a massive party and one even get's a lap dance from Red Foo. It sounds corny written like that but the way it pans out in the movie it doesn't seem it.
Not much else to say on this one, just that it gives off a really good vibe. I highly recommend it, especially for us blokes getting on a bit - there's a lot of 'old man' problem humor, all stuff to look forward to I guess.
8/10
IMDB Info
The film is about a bunch of elderly guys who have been mates since forever hitting up Vegas for a Bachelor party and realizing they're not dead yet! What makes this an absolute success is the chemistry between the 4 main male leads - Robert De Niro, Morgan Freeman, Michael Douglas and Kevin Kline. They nailed it. Their interactions between themselves and with the outside world was natural and hilarious.
All were brilliant but Morgan Freeman was the stand out for me. He played such a great character who was just out for a good time and after a couple of drinks became the kid he was 60 years ago. Together the guys manage to score the penthouse at the Aria and find themselves clubbing, judging bikini contests, throwing a massive party and one even get's a lap dance from Red Foo. It sounds corny written like that but the way it pans out in the movie it doesn't seem it.
Not much else to say on this one, just that it gives off a really good vibe. I highly recommend it, especially for us blokes getting on a bit - there's a lot of 'old man' problem humor, all stuff to look forward to I guess.
8/10
IMDB Info
Short Term 12
Been saving this one for the right mood and definitely glad I did. Unfortunately I don't think I'm even close to qualified for reviewing it. I think production wise it is almost perfect for the genre and story it was delivering. I would love to crap on about the use of camera angle's, lenses, shooting style etc but I'm completely out of my league so will just say it's 'beautifully shot'.
Short Term 12 is more of an experience than a story. We are immediately thrown into the world of a handful of carers looking after troubled youths and once we settle into this environment we can see like all things in life it's not as black and white as we may have thought. Again I say I'm not qualified, being a middle class 'white dude' whose biggest problem growing up was not getting a Nintendo 64 for Christmas, it's hard to relate to the trauma and experiences these kids must have gone through - but the film does a good job of putting this in perspective.
In fact I think perspective is a key focus of this film. It almost becomes a lesson in the power of perception. The perception of authority, perception of what we fear, and for us the viewer the perception of who or what is fucked up, or considered fucked up.
Snap out of it! Too deep, sorry. Bottle of cheap Barossa red + antibiotics for an ear infection that is giving me nothing but Mono sound at best... maybe over thinking it all.
Moving on... It's a potentially dark subject but captured in quite a positive light. The main characters have a lot to do with this adding some humour, but also the music is very up-beat and happy even during moments that could be perceived as higher tension. I think this worked really well.
The acting is crazy good. I didn't recognise anyone in the cast but quality was top notch. There were a few story telling type scene's which helped add the humour but also just felt so natural and well acted. I honestly hope this film kick starts a few careers here.
As always I have to make a small complaint. There is a scene involving a suicide attempt and I would like the makers of this film to look up the number of litres of blood in the human body, and how many of those litres are expelled when slicing certain areas. I don't think a smear on the wall covered it, but hey - maybe they were going for PG rating?
Overall though an incredibly well made film. It loses a point for re-watch ability, definitely think this is a once only for me. That said though if I see the next title from Destin Cretton, writer and director, I will definitely be checking it out.
8/10
IMDB Info
Short Term 12 is more of an experience than a story. We are immediately thrown into the world of a handful of carers looking after troubled youths and once we settle into this environment we can see like all things in life it's not as black and white as we may have thought. Again I say I'm not qualified, being a middle class 'white dude' whose biggest problem growing up was not getting a Nintendo 64 for Christmas, it's hard to relate to the trauma and experiences these kids must have gone through - but the film does a good job of putting this in perspective.
In fact I think perspective is a key focus of this film. It almost becomes a lesson in the power of perception. The perception of authority, perception of what we fear, and for us the viewer the perception of who or what is fucked up, or considered fucked up.
Snap out of it! Too deep, sorry. Bottle of cheap Barossa red + antibiotics for an ear infection that is giving me nothing but Mono sound at best... maybe over thinking it all.
Moving on... It's a potentially dark subject but captured in quite a positive light. The main characters have a lot to do with this adding some humour, but also the music is very up-beat and happy even during moments that could be perceived as higher tension. I think this worked really well.
The acting is crazy good. I didn't recognise anyone in the cast but quality was top notch. There were a few story telling type scene's which helped add the humour but also just felt so natural and well acted. I honestly hope this film kick starts a few careers here.
As always I have to make a small complaint. There is a scene involving a suicide attempt and I would like the makers of this film to look up the number of litres of blood in the human body, and how many of those litres are expelled when slicing certain areas. I don't think a smear on the wall covered it, but hey - maybe they were going for PG rating?
Overall though an incredibly well made film. It loses a point for re-watch ability, definitely think this is a once only for me. That said though if I see the next title from Destin Cretton, writer and director, I will definitely be checking it out.
8/10
IMDB Info
Academy Award Results
So, the awards were a week or so ago (sorry, Mike and I have been flat out at work) and so its time to see how we went with our Oscar predictions. First up let me say that I was very happy with this years choices, it seems that picking the obvious choice wasn't the agreed strategy for this year and it was nice to see the truly deserving win in most cases. So how did we do on our predictions? Lets see:
BEST PICTURE: 12 Years a Slave
Boom! The one we wanted: 12 Years A Slave. Steve McQueen is one of the best filmmakers out there and its brilliant to see him pickup his first oscar for such a strong movie. Look out for our review soon on this one.
BEST ACTOR: Matthew McConaughey
Boom! Two out two. I still haven't seen all of Matthews performance but from what I have heard its amazing. Wasn't too sure what to make of his acceptance speech, but I don't know what he is on at present with top performances also popping up in True Detective, Mud and Wolf of Wall St this year.
BEST ACTRESS: Cate Blanchett
And the Aussie takes it out! Well done Cate, love your work in all your movies. So proud to see you up there and brilliant acceptance speech.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: Jared Leto
Way off the mark here, didn't even really know who Jared Leto is, but his performance does look like a knock out. And, he seems like a pretty cool dude.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: Lupita Nyong'o
I am so glad Lupita won! Only the 7th black lady to ever win an Oscar and her performance was raw, emotional and poignant. So much better than Jennifer Lawrence's was.
BEST DIRECTOR: Alfonso Cuaron
Alfonso did it! We think that 12 Years was a more deserving picture for the top spot, but actually making Gravity is a truly astounding feat. He literally had to create new technology just to allow his vision to be reality and fought for nearly 7 years to make his Sci Fi epic. Plus, he made Children of Men! Come on.
BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY: 12 Years a Slave
Again, great to see such an amazing film take this one out, but I think the Before series deserves to win one for this category. Such brilliant writing.
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY: Her
This was unexpected in some ways. Its such an interesting night when the best screenplay, director and movie are all from different filmmakers and creatives. I love that as it means people really cared about the winners and Spike really deserved this. What a stand out accomplishment to write his movie the way he did.
BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN: The Great Gatsby
Think this one was pretty obvious. Quite interesting that The Great Gatsby won two more oscars than either Wolf of Wall Street, American Hustle or Captain Phillips.
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gravity
Now, Im not entirely sure on the rules or way cinematography is done for animated movies, but to me this was a real disappointment. Prisoners was the most intensely shot film, done with the most perfect lighting of the year, hands down. If its harder to do that in an animated film then Gravity was great, if its a misunderstanding of the construction technique Im annoyed at this one.
BEST VISUAL EFFECTS: Gravity
Hand in hand with what I said about cinematography, Gravity looks astounding! But its due to the visual effects, not the shooting techniques (In my opinion) so glad to see this take it out. Simply amazing how they did what they did in this movie.
So all in all we were pretty close and pretty happy with the outcome. I quite enjoyed Ellen's most tweeted photo of our overlords and loved Luipta's acceptance speech. Its a weird ceremony really, but always good to see what you love recognised. Here's hoping for a funnier leading comedian next year though.
BEST PICTURE: 12 Years a Slave
Boom! The one we wanted: 12 Years A Slave. Steve McQueen is one of the best filmmakers out there and its brilliant to see him pickup his first oscar for such a strong movie. Look out for our review soon on this one.
BEST ACTOR: Matthew McConaughey
Boom! Two out two. I still haven't seen all of Matthews performance but from what I have heard its amazing. Wasn't too sure what to make of his acceptance speech, but I don't know what he is on at present with top performances also popping up in True Detective, Mud and Wolf of Wall St this year.
BEST ACTRESS: Cate Blanchett
And the Aussie takes it out! Well done Cate, love your work in all your movies. So proud to see you up there and brilliant acceptance speech.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: Jared Leto
Way off the mark here, didn't even really know who Jared Leto is, but his performance does look like a knock out. And, he seems like a pretty cool dude.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: Lupita Nyong'o
I am so glad Lupita won! Only the 7th black lady to ever win an Oscar and her performance was raw, emotional and poignant. So much better than Jennifer Lawrence's was.
BEST DIRECTOR: Alfonso Cuaron
Alfonso did it! We think that 12 Years was a more deserving picture for the top spot, but actually making Gravity is a truly astounding feat. He literally had to create new technology just to allow his vision to be reality and fought for nearly 7 years to make his Sci Fi epic. Plus, he made Children of Men! Come on.
BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY: 12 Years a Slave
Again, great to see such an amazing film take this one out, but I think the Before series deserves to win one for this category. Such brilliant writing.
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY: Her
This was unexpected in some ways. Its such an interesting night when the best screenplay, director and movie are all from different filmmakers and creatives. I love that as it means people really cared about the winners and Spike really deserved this. What a stand out accomplishment to write his movie the way he did.
BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN: The Great Gatsby
Think this one was pretty obvious. Quite interesting that The Great Gatsby won two more oscars than either Wolf of Wall Street, American Hustle or Captain Phillips.
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: Gravity
Now, Im not entirely sure on the rules or way cinematography is done for animated movies, but to me this was a real disappointment. Prisoners was the most intensely shot film, done with the most perfect lighting of the year, hands down. If its harder to do that in an animated film then Gravity was great, if its a misunderstanding of the construction technique Im annoyed at this one.
BEST VISUAL EFFECTS: Gravity
Hand in hand with what I said about cinematography, Gravity looks astounding! But its due to the visual effects, not the shooting techniques (In my opinion) so glad to see this take it out. Simply amazing how they did what they did in this movie.
So all in all we were pretty close and pretty happy with the outcome. I quite enjoyed Ellen's most tweeted photo of our overlords and loved Luipta's acceptance speech. Its a weird ceremony really, but always good to see what you love recognised. Here's hoping for a funnier leading comedian next year though.
Knights of Badassdom!
With a title like that you can't go wrong! Can you?
Knights of Badassdom is exactly the sort of movie you would want to make. Take a crazy funny script about LARP'ers (Live Action Role Play) and add some horror themes, a great main cast including a few hot ladies and a dwarf (sorry, little person) and you have a recipe for success in my opinion. This would have been so much fun to make, I'm jealous.
If you're not familiar with LARP it's where people go meet to role play their fantasy characters and do fake battle. Yup, it's all the dungeons and dragons stuff involving +4 maces and spells of healing or whatever. If you've seen the movie 'Role Models' then it's the same thing. Not sure I should admit this out loud but I reckon it looks like a hell of a lot of fun and would love to give it a go :)
Where to start though? I'll start small... Peter Dinklage. What a great actor and obviously feels right at home in any medieval setting after we all fell in love with him in Game of Thrones. He's absolutely hilarious as Sir Hung and he steals the show in every scene he's in. Things only get better when Sir Hung downs a bag of shrooms before the event, although that said I think any comedy benefits from a character downing some sort of hallucinogenic.
Next in line is Aussie actor Ryan Kwanten of True Blood fame. He is great with comedy but also showed depth in the Aussie drama Red Hill (pretty decent flick btw). Good to see Aussie actors doing well. Kwanten is a toned down version of his True Blood character for this one, which works well surrounded by his super nerd mates. Steve Zahn also shares the lead well and for those Community fans there is a small role for Danny Pudi (Abed)... Love that dude :)
Knights of Badassdom is just a good, funny and silly horror comedy. Definitely a movie to watch with mates over a few drinks. It's a low budget gem and the old school special effects using real creature costumes compliments the style perfectly. Like any good horror comedy the kill scene's are way over the top and are delivered with good frequency. Not a movie to be taken seriously, just enjoy and have a laugh.
My only complaint was lack of boobs. (sorry ladies). This sort of movie is only made better by some completely deliberate and blatantly tasteless titty shots. Take a leaf out of road trips book.
Enjoy :)
8/10
IMDB Info
Knights of Badassdom is exactly the sort of movie you would want to make. Take a crazy funny script about LARP'ers (Live Action Role Play) and add some horror themes, a great main cast including a few hot ladies and a dwarf (sorry, little person) and you have a recipe for success in my opinion. This would have been so much fun to make, I'm jealous.
If you're not familiar with LARP it's where people go meet to role play their fantasy characters and do fake battle. Yup, it's all the dungeons and dragons stuff involving +4 maces and spells of healing or whatever. If you've seen the movie 'Role Models' then it's the same thing. Not sure I should admit this out loud but I reckon it looks like a hell of a lot of fun and would love to give it a go :)
Where to start though? I'll start small... Peter Dinklage. What a great actor and obviously feels right at home in any medieval setting after we all fell in love with him in Game of Thrones. He's absolutely hilarious as Sir Hung and he steals the show in every scene he's in. Things only get better when Sir Hung downs a bag of shrooms before the event, although that said I think any comedy benefits from a character downing some sort of hallucinogenic.
Next in line is Aussie actor Ryan Kwanten of True Blood fame. He is great with comedy but also showed depth in the Aussie drama Red Hill (pretty decent flick btw). Good to see Aussie actors doing well. Kwanten is a toned down version of his True Blood character for this one, which works well surrounded by his super nerd mates. Steve Zahn also shares the lead well and for those Community fans there is a small role for Danny Pudi (Abed)... Love that dude :)
Knights of Badassdom is just a good, funny and silly horror comedy. Definitely a movie to watch with mates over a few drinks. It's a low budget gem and the old school special effects using real creature costumes compliments the style perfectly. Like any good horror comedy the kill scene's are way over the top and are delivered with good frequency. Not a movie to be taken seriously, just enjoy and have a laugh.
My only complaint was lack of boobs. (sorry ladies). This sort of movie is only made better by some completely deliberate and blatantly tasteless titty shots. Take a leaf out of road trips book.
Enjoy :)
8/10
IMDB Info
Dallas Buyers Club
Matthew McConaughey just cracked the big league. This performance puts him in such company as Christian Bale and Daniel Day Lewis. Had the film been made earlier it would be in contention for a spot on the top 10 male performances of all time list.
Dallas Buyers Club is based on a true story about Ron Woodroof, a Texas electrician who contracts the H.I.V virus in the mid 80's and his subsequent struggle to attain the right medicines he needs to survive. He finds a market selling non-approved drugs to other H.I.V patients and sets up the "Dallas Buyers Club" which provides all the drugs you need for the price of a monthly membership. Through this he begins his own research and improves the lives of many people however maintains a constant fight with the F.D.A, the police and the I.R.S to provide the drugs.
It must have been a very frustrating time for those infected by the virus. The usual government corruption led to a drug known as AZT being approved for human trials and this was having very mixed results amongst patients. Different drugs were available in other countries but were not approved by the F.D.A so couldn't be brought into or sold in the U.S. Woodroof worked around the system and traveled to many countries finding suppliers and giving the people an alternative option to AZT, one that appeared to be far more successful.
The craziest thing about this movie was that it was made for 4.5 million. Obviously a passion project for McConaughey who would normally draw that amount in salary alone. It is well shot, incredibly acted and is quite an interesting story on a controversial subject. I was pleased to read that it made about 25 million worldwide which is a great result for 4.5 million budget.
Jared Leto co-stars as Rayon, a trans-gender male with H.I.V who opens up the market for Woodroof and becomes a partner in the business. Both McConaughey and Leto are fantastic. They both had to lose insane amounts of weight and it is just disturbing how skeletal they are in some shots - similar to Christian Bale in 'The Machinist' or as Dicky in 'The Fighter'. It really adds authenticity to the characters though.
My only criticism is that the story is very slow. I think Macca used the term 'snails pace' and I would have to agree. Given the true content of the story I'm not quite sure how they could have changed this, perhaps shaved 20 minutes off the run time, not sure. It was a good watch though but not one I will be in a hurry to watch again.
7/10
IMDB Info
Dallas Buyers Club is based on a true story about Ron Woodroof, a Texas electrician who contracts the H.I.V virus in the mid 80's and his subsequent struggle to attain the right medicines he needs to survive. He finds a market selling non-approved drugs to other H.I.V patients and sets up the "Dallas Buyers Club" which provides all the drugs you need for the price of a monthly membership. Through this he begins his own research and improves the lives of many people however maintains a constant fight with the F.D.A, the police and the I.R.S to provide the drugs.
It must have been a very frustrating time for those infected by the virus. The usual government corruption led to a drug known as AZT being approved for human trials and this was having very mixed results amongst patients. Different drugs were available in other countries but were not approved by the F.D.A so couldn't be brought into or sold in the U.S. Woodroof worked around the system and traveled to many countries finding suppliers and giving the people an alternative option to AZT, one that appeared to be far more successful.
The craziest thing about this movie was that it was made for 4.5 million. Obviously a passion project for McConaughey who would normally draw that amount in salary alone. It is well shot, incredibly acted and is quite an interesting story on a controversial subject. I was pleased to read that it made about 25 million worldwide which is a great result for 4.5 million budget.
Jared Leto co-stars as Rayon, a trans-gender male with H.I.V who opens up the market for Woodroof and becomes a partner in the business. Both McConaughey and Leto are fantastic. They both had to lose insane amounts of weight and it is just disturbing how skeletal they are in some shots - similar to Christian Bale in 'The Machinist' or as Dicky in 'The Fighter'. It really adds authenticity to the characters though.
My only criticism is that the story is very slow. I think Macca used the term 'snails pace' and I would have to agree. Given the true content of the story I'm not quite sure how they could have changed this, perhaps shaved 20 minutes off the run time, not sure. It was a good watch though but not one I will be in a hurry to watch again.
7/10
IMDB Info
Filth
A very fitting title for this one. Violent, gross, racist, sexist... FILTHY. Think Bad Lieutenant (Nick Cage) crossed with Trainspotting. *edit* - just looked up this one and see it was based on Irvine Welsh's novel. That explains the Trainspotting!
In Filth we are thrust straight into the insane life of police officer Bruce Robertson played by James McAvoy. What this guy does in a day most of wouldn't do in a life time. We follow him through a montage of drinking, drugs, sex, terrible police work and overall just being an absolute wanker. But amongst this chaos is a deeper story and we can see there is more to Bruce than meets the eye.
It's quite an engaging film to watch. Snappy editing provides a fairly fast pace and when the story backs off a bit there's enough on screen appealing to our 'depraved' curiosity to keep watching intently.
I felt a bit like the movie didn't know quite which direction to take. At times it was completely hilarious, others quite clever, also a little serious at times and others just down right crazy. Although this was probably deliberate, by the end I was still waiting for the POINT! I get there's a lot of filth in the world but what are you saying about it? This may have been driven home better in the book methinks.
McAvoy is good playing Robertson. Couldn't fault his acting. However, to me he felt poorly casted. I don't know if it is just his face, or something about his take on the character but something didn't fit here. No other performances really worth mentioning except maybe Jim Broadbent as the doctor. Under the influence of certain 'enhancers' his character would have provided plenty of "WTF" moments. In fact even without there were enough.
There were a couple of scene's though that had me literally laughing out loud which is an achievement in a movie when watching alone I reckon. One involved a very interesting game I might try out at the next work party involving a xerox machine. The finale of this though was priceless - "Fuck me with that horses cock!...... What????". The second involved some drink spiking of Bruce's 'best friend' Bladesey. Anyway I apologise for describing scene's if you haven't seen it yet.
Overall quite an interesting and unique watch. Definitely won't suit those with milder taste. If you're a fan of Welsh's work this will be a must see. I loved Trainspotting but don't think Filth is up there in the same category.
P.S - what the fuck is up with that PIG?
6/10
IMDB Info
In Filth we are thrust straight into the insane life of police officer Bruce Robertson played by James McAvoy. What this guy does in a day most of wouldn't do in a life time. We follow him through a montage of drinking, drugs, sex, terrible police work and overall just being an absolute wanker. But amongst this chaos is a deeper story and we can see there is more to Bruce than meets the eye.
It's quite an engaging film to watch. Snappy editing provides a fairly fast pace and when the story backs off a bit there's enough on screen appealing to our 'depraved' curiosity to keep watching intently.
I felt a bit like the movie didn't know quite which direction to take. At times it was completely hilarious, others quite clever, also a little serious at times and others just down right crazy. Although this was probably deliberate, by the end I was still waiting for the POINT! I get there's a lot of filth in the world but what are you saying about it? This may have been driven home better in the book methinks.
McAvoy is good playing Robertson. Couldn't fault his acting. However, to me he felt poorly casted. I don't know if it is just his face, or something about his take on the character but something didn't fit here. No other performances really worth mentioning except maybe Jim Broadbent as the doctor. Under the influence of certain 'enhancers' his character would have provided plenty of "WTF" moments. In fact even without there were enough.
There were a couple of scene's though that had me literally laughing out loud which is an achievement in a movie when watching alone I reckon. One involved a very interesting game I might try out at the next work party involving a xerox machine. The finale of this though was priceless - "Fuck me with that horses cock!...... What????". The second involved some drink spiking of Bruce's 'best friend' Bladesey. Anyway I apologise for describing scene's if you haven't seen it yet.
Overall quite an interesting and unique watch. Definitely won't suit those with milder taste. If you're a fan of Welsh's work this will be a must see. I loved Trainspotting but don't think Filth is up there in the same category.
P.S - what the fuck is up with that PIG?
6/10
IMDB Info
Ender's Game
MORE SCI-FI!!!!!! Always wanting MORE MORE MORE!
Even better when you find GOOD Sci-fi, and Ender's Game delivers on all levels. It's based on the book by Orson Scott Card and Directed by South African Gavin Hood who has done other quite large studio flicks like X-men:Origins and Rendition. I loved every minute of it, but I have a feeling this one won't be for everyone.
I'm a complete sucker for good kids movies. And 99.9% of these were created in the 80's and early 90's. Growing up during this time was obviously a large contributing factor to this opinion however I don't think anyone can argue that the movies made back then just had some sort of charm that we rarely see these days (sorry I know Guy and I crap on about the 80's a lot, but hey :). With the incredible animation and special effects we enjoy today the studio's are creating for a completely different children's market and I understand our older movies wouldn't "cut it" for today's younger audience. This is why I am so impressed with 'Ender's Game'. It uses all the modern tricks but still captures the essence of a good 80's story telling. There's no unnecessary violence or gore, no swearing - just a great story presented beautifully and paced to perfection.
So what's it about? If you're old enough you will remember a movie called 'The Last Star Fighter'. Very similar story elements between the two. Set in the future where Earth has survived a large scale invasion by a race known as the 'Formics' and is preparing to go on the offensive to prevent future attacks. Humans have learned that children possess superior decision making skills during battle so are trained to lead and fight at an early age. The best of these are promoted to the top of the academy to lead the attack on the enemy. Ender Wiggin is one such candidate and the story follows his progression through the academy and eventual role in the attack.
'Ender's Game' is just a good fun movie. Wiggin, played by Asa Butterfield, is a very likable character and by the end of the film I was sold on him being a born leader and strategist. Harrison Ford was pretty decent as Colonel Graff, man he's looking old though. Poor Indy. Ben Kingsley's character Mazar Rackham was completely destroyed by Kingsey's terrible attempt of a New Zealand accent, it was actually quite hilarious. It probably doesn't sound too bad for those not familiar with the accent, like Leo's South African accent in Blood Diamond which was apparently terrible but sounded good to me. Anyway, at the very least he is good for a couple of laughs.
Like all modern day big budget movies the cinematography is top notch and special effects seamlessly crisp. The action scene's were incredibly well shot, and contrary to current trends were not rushed or over edited. Just overall a damn enjoyable watch! A reminder again this is a kids movie so if you take your Sci-Fi a bit too seriously then maybe give it a miss. Personally I love having a few reds and letting myself be young again!
8/10
IMDB Info
Even better when you find GOOD Sci-fi, and Ender's Game delivers on all levels. It's based on the book by Orson Scott Card and Directed by South African Gavin Hood who has done other quite large studio flicks like X-men:Origins and Rendition. I loved every minute of it, but I have a feeling this one won't be for everyone.
I'm a complete sucker for good kids movies. And 99.9% of these were created in the 80's and early 90's. Growing up during this time was obviously a large contributing factor to this opinion however I don't think anyone can argue that the movies made back then just had some sort of charm that we rarely see these days (sorry I know Guy and I crap on about the 80's a lot, but hey :). With the incredible animation and special effects we enjoy today the studio's are creating for a completely different children's market and I understand our older movies wouldn't "cut it" for today's younger audience. This is why I am so impressed with 'Ender's Game'. It uses all the modern tricks but still captures the essence of a good 80's story telling. There's no unnecessary violence or gore, no swearing - just a great story presented beautifully and paced to perfection.
So what's it about? If you're old enough you will remember a movie called 'The Last Star Fighter'. Very similar story elements between the two. Set in the future where Earth has survived a large scale invasion by a race known as the 'Formics' and is preparing to go on the offensive to prevent future attacks. Humans have learned that children possess superior decision making skills during battle so are trained to lead and fight at an early age. The best of these are promoted to the top of the academy to lead the attack on the enemy. Ender Wiggin is one such candidate and the story follows his progression through the academy and eventual role in the attack.
'Ender's Game' is just a good fun movie. Wiggin, played by Asa Butterfield, is a very likable character and by the end of the film I was sold on him being a born leader and strategist. Harrison Ford was pretty decent as Colonel Graff, man he's looking old though. Poor Indy. Ben Kingsley's character Mazar Rackham was completely destroyed by Kingsey's terrible attempt of a New Zealand accent, it was actually quite hilarious. It probably doesn't sound too bad for those not familiar with the accent, like Leo's South African accent in Blood Diamond which was apparently terrible but sounded good to me. Anyway, at the very least he is good for a couple of laughs.
Like all modern day big budget movies the cinematography is top notch and special effects seamlessly crisp. The action scene's were incredibly well shot, and contrary to current trends were not rushed or over edited. Just overall a damn enjoyable watch! A reminder again this is a kids movie so if you take your Sci-Fi a bit too seriously then maybe give it a miss. Personally I love having a few reds and letting myself be young again!
8/10
IMDB Info
All is Lost
When it comes to the quality of this film, all is definitely not lost.
Writer and Director J.C Chandor delivers an incredibly realistic survival story set in the vast Indian Ocean. We are introduced immediately to the only character in the movie (we never learn his name), played by Robert Redford as he wakes to find his yacht damaged by a rogue shipping container floating in the middle of nowhere overnight. It's nothing but survival from this point onwards as he faces a string of bad luck yet luckily has the Macgyver-esk skills to overcome most obstacles.
A warning to all those action heads out there - this is a very in depth, slow burning movie. There are only a handful of words spoken and every event is played out in absolute detail and precision as though you were on the boat watching directly. It is beautifully shot, but one thing they especially nailed was the underwater to above water transitions and vise-versa - absolutely seamless. Being a single boat in the middle of the ocean, the team could concentrate heavily on creating the perfect sets for in and out of the yacht. Inside of the yacht was quite spectacular and was even built to be able to capsize which provided some incredible internal action shots during some stormy scene's.
When a movie only has a single character - casting must become the single most important decision I reckon. If you're not captivated by the character then yes, All Is Lost. To be honest at first I thought Redford might have been the wrong decision. He looked almost too far past expiry to pull off the role, quite slow and sore. That said though, about half way through I was sold. Fantastic performance. He never tried to over compensate for the lack of dialogue by over-acting his emotions. I think the reason why I initially doubted was because it was so different to the usual acting we see but after adjusting and thinking on it, it felt very authentic. Our reactions when alone are quite different to with company and I think Redford and Chandor nailed it.
I love survival stories. I remember reading 'Hatchet' in school which was a great little story and then later saw movies like 'Survive the Savage Sea' and of course 'Cast Away' which was just brilliant. I would compare 'All is Lost' a little to 'Cast Away' in some elements from the time Hanks left the Island. If you're a fan of this type of stuff also then definitely add to the watch list. I originally gave it a 9 and in lot of area's it definitely deserved but I took it down to an 8 after considering re-watch value. Will definitely be watching again but will give it a few years I think to recharge ready for the slow burn once again.
8/10
IMDB Info
Writer and Director J.C Chandor delivers an incredibly realistic survival story set in the vast Indian Ocean. We are introduced immediately to the only character in the movie (we never learn his name), played by Robert Redford as he wakes to find his yacht damaged by a rogue shipping container floating in the middle of nowhere overnight. It's nothing but survival from this point onwards as he faces a string of bad luck yet luckily has the Macgyver-esk skills to overcome most obstacles.
A warning to all those action heads out there - this is a very in depth, slow burning movie. There are only a handful of words spoken and every event is played out in absolute detail and precision as though you were on the boat watching directly. It is beautifully shot, but one thing they especially nailed was the underwater to above water transitions and vise-versa - absolutely seamless. Being a single boat in the middle of the ocean, the team could concentrate heavily on creating the perfect sets for in and out of the yacht. Inside of the yacht was quite spectacular and was even built to be able to capsize which provided some incredible internal action shots during some stormy scene's.
When a movie only has a single character - casting must become the single most important decision I reckon. If you're not captivated by the character then yes, All Is Lost. To be honest at first I thought Redford might have been the wrong decision. He looked almost too far past expiry to pull off the role, quite slow and sore. That said though, about half way through I was sold. Fantastic performance. He never tried to over compensate for the lack of dialogue by over-acting his emotions. I think the reason why I initially doubted was because it was so different to the usual acting we see but after adjusting and thinking on it, it felt very authentic. Our reactions when alone are quite different to with company and I think Redford and Chandor nailed it.
I love survival stories. I remember reading 'Hatchet' in school which was a great little story and then later saw movies like 'Survive the Savage Sea' and of course 'Cast Away' which was just brilliant. I would compare 'All is Lost' a little to 'Cast Away' in some elements from the time Hanks left the Island. If you're a fan of this type of stuff also then definitely add to the watch list. I originally gave it a 9 and in lot of area's it definitely deserved but I took it down to an 8 after considering re-watch value. Will definitely be watching again but will give it a few years I think to recharge ready for the slow burn once again.
8/10
IMDB Info
Academy Award Predictions
And so, for the sheer fun of it, here are our thoughts:
Yellow is for what we think will win
Green is for what we would like to win
Best Picture
American Hustle - Guys Prediticion is a little different to Mike's on this one
Captain Phillips
Dallas Buyers Club
Gravity
Her- Mike's prediction
Nebraska
Philomena
12 Years a Slave
The Wolf of Wall Street
Best Actor
Christian Bale, American Hustle
Bruce Dern, Nebraska
Leonardo DiCaprio, The Wolf of Wall Street
Chiwetel Ejiofor, 12 Years a Slave
Matthew McConaughey, Dallas Buyers Club
Best Actress
Amy Adams, American Hustle
Cate Blanchett, Blue Jasmine
Sandra Bullock, Gravity
Judi Dench, Philomena
Meryl Streep, August: Osage County
Best Supporting Actor
Barkhad Abdi, Captain Phillips
Bradley Cooper, American Hustle - With Guy's prediciton of best picture I think this will win
Michael Fassbender, 12 Years a Slave - Mike is pretty sure Fassbender will win too, and I hope he does
Jonah Hill, The Wolf of Wall Street
Jared Leto, Dallas Buyers Club
Best Supporting Actress
Sally Hawkins, Blue Jasmine
Jennifer Lawrence, American Hustle
Lupita Nyong'o, 12 Years a Slave
Julia Roberts, August: Osage County
June Squibb, Nebraska
Best Director
David O. Russell, American Hustle
Alfonso Cuaron, Gravity - Mike's wish here for best director
Alexander Payne, Nebraska
Steve McQueen, 12 Years a Slave - Guy's wish here for Steve to finally get one
Martin Scorsese, The Wolf of Wall Street
Best Adapted Screenplay
Before Midnight - Richard Linklater, Julie Delpy, Ethan Hawke
Captain Phillips - Billy Ray
Philomena - Steve Coogan and Jeff Pope
12 Years a Slave - John Ridley
The Wolf of Wall Street - Terence Winter
Best Original Screenplay
American Hustle - Eric Warren Singer and David O. Russell
Blue Jasmine - Woody Allen
Dallas Buyers Club - Craig Borten & Melisa Wallack
Her - Spike Jonze
Nebraska - Bob Nelson
Best Production Design
American Hustle
Gravity
The Great Gatsby
Her
12 Years a Slave
Best Cinematography
The Grandmaster
Gravity
Inside Llewyn Davis
Nebraska
Prisoners
Best Visual Effects
Gravity
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
Iron Man 3
The Lone Ranger
Star Trek Into Darkness
So lets see how it plays out on March the 2nd. Please note we have only tried to guess those categories we know enough about, and have in fact not seen all the movies in them either, which makes it a bit hard. But with knowledge of how these awards have been given out in the past we feel we can make a pretty sure bet given what we know about them.
How about you? Do you agree or disagree?
Captain Phillips
"Maybe in America Irish, maybe in America"
A given with all my reviews - potential *spoilers alert*
Just managed to sneak seeing this before our top 10 posts... to be honest I thought I would have to re-adjust my list but in the end it wasn't quite worthy so no harm posting after.
If you're not up to speed on this one it's basically a 'true' story about an American ship & captain taken hostage by Somali pirates. It can be easy sitting in my comfy lounge chair in front of my flat screen T.V to be swept up in the usual American propaganda however it becomes more difficult these days as we are made more aware of the cost of our decadent lives. To be fair though I think this movie did give a small effort to show the 'other side of the story' however I couldn't help but feel like the pirates were the true victims as these four men with rifles on a lifeboat were chased down by multiple battleships, seal teams, helicopters and the navies finest.
All that aside though it's a pretty damn good movie. Thank Christ I was watching this at home and not in the cinema. Mr Greengrass has the tendency to hire camera men with Parkinson disease and at the cinema I may have thrown up all over my pop corn. But with this style comes an absolute realism and .... what's that word that means completely immersed and feels like you're there? Damn..
With all the U.S bravado and big action music I had flash backs in a couple of moments to Michael Bay - mainly the Rock... maybe Armageddon. Quick cuts of military dudes yelling out status updates and orders around the place - definitely the right formulae.
There's not much point going into Tom Hanks performance. We have come to expect nothing but perfection and once again he doesn't disappoint. As the story progresses so does his character and emotional depth and he carries the movie along on his giant shoulders like so many before. The fellas playing the pirates were damn good as well - especially the captain 'muse' played by Barkhad Abdi. Is it just me or does this guy look a hell of a lot like Omar from 'The Wire'??
Overall a very decent and intense action/drama with solid acting and good (albeit shaky) production. Definitely worth checking out.
One last thing to add - I hope Hans Zimmer got some royalties for the last track played, massive 'time' rip off. However I did watch the credits and saw his name in the thank you list so maybe he was feeling generous?
7/10
IMDB Info
A given with all my reviews - potential *spoilers alert*
Just managed to sneak seeing this before our top 10 posts... to be honest I thought I would have to re-adjust my list but in the end it wasn't quite worthy so no harm posting after.
If you're not up to speed on this one it's basically a 'true' story about an American ship & captain taken hostage by Somali pirates. It can be easy sitting in my comfy lounge chair in front of my flat screen T.V to be swept up in the usual American propaganda however it becomes more difficult these days as we are made more aware of the cost of our decadent lives. To be fair though I think this movie did give a small effort to show the 'other side of the story' however I couldn't help but feel like the pirates were the true victims as these four men with rifles on a lifeboat were chased down by multiple battleships, seal teams, helicopters and the navies finest.
All that aside though it's a pretty damn good movie. Thank Christ I was watching this at home and not in the cinema. Mr Greengrass has the tendency to hire camera men with Parkinson disease and at the cinema I may have thrown up all over my pop corn. But with this style comes an absolute realism and .... what's that word that means completely immersed and feels like you're there? Damn..
With all the U.S bravado and big action music I had flash backs in a couple of moments to Michael Bay - mainly the Rock... maybe Armageddon. Quick cuts of military dudes yelling out status updates and orders around the place - definitely the right formulae.
There's not much point going into Tom Hanks performance. We have come to expect nothing but perfection and once again he doesn't disappoint. As the story progresses so does his character and emotional depth and he carries the movie along on his giant shoulders like so many before. The fellas playing the pirates were damn good as well - especially the captain 'muse' played by Barkhad Abdi. Is it just me or does this guy look a hell of a lot like Omar from 'The Wire'??
Overall a very decent and intense action/drama with solid acting and good (albeit shaky) production. Definitely worth checking out.
One last thing to add - I hope Hans Zimmer got some royalties for the last track played, massive 'time' rip off. However I did watch the credits and saw his name in the thank you list so maybe he was feeling generous?
7/10
IMDB Info
Some recent watches
Back at work now, but whilst on holidays I was watching a fair few flicks. I feel a lot of them don't really need a full review so I've consolidated a few quick summaries below.
Riddick
This is a hard one because I absolutely love Pitch Black. I thought Chronicles of Riddick was a piece of crap and now this 3rd installment I find somewhere in the middle. The story feels a lot closer to the first however still keeps ties with the second. The movie is absolute cheese on toast with horrible corny dialogue delivered very poorly throughout. I think my favourite was...
"I dont fuck guys... but sometimes I fuck them up"
*sigh* And to make that line worse it was delivered by Katee Sackhoff of Battlestar Galatica fame who I held in high regard after that series. This was definitely not her role but after reading that script I could imagine her motivation waned.
What keeps me going though is the character of Riddick. He's awesome! Vin Diesel just slips into the role so perfectly. A lot of the story involved Riddick himself surviving on an unknown world and there were some good scene's with him vs the wildlife. If you're a fan of the franchise I recommend grabbing some scotch or a wine and chucking this one on whilst turning off the brain for a couple of hours. It was enjoyable enough.
6/10
IMDB Info
Don Jon
J.G.L (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) has become a first rate actor. It has been great watching his career push forward from 3rd Rock to a plethora of indy films until finally making it big with massive films like Inception, Dark Knight Rises and Looper. Once again he gives a great performance and plays the lead role of Jon perfectly.
For me though the stand out was Scarlett Johansson. This would have to be one of, if not the best performances of her career. She transforms into the Jersey girl - accent, attitude, everything. Compare her in this role to say We Bought a Zoo - just an incredible contrast.
To summarise in a sentence - Don Jon follows the porn addicted Jon through failed relationship attempts and his journey of true sexual awakedness with an older lover Esther (played by Julianne Moore). It's a good watch - honest and real.
7/10
IMDB Info
The Kings of Summer
This probably deserved it's own review. A very unique film with terrific quirky characters and an atmosphere of adventure we all crave. The story follows a couple of friends dealing with different home life issues who befriend a very odd young fellow and run away into the forest near their town. They build themselves quite an impressive cabin and enjoy the freedom of living with their own rules and braving the wild.
The movie nearly has it all - comedy, drama, love and adventure. It is beautifully shot with scene's spliced with spectacular nature shots the crew must have caught while filming out there. There was a great scene with the boys drumming and dancing on a large pipe running through the forest - absolutely loved how they then used this drumming music in a tense scene later in the film.
All characters were great but Nick Offerman was sensational as one of the fathers. The more I see of this guy the more I like. Loved the Wonton's!
I'm stuck between giving it a 7 or an 8. I think for me personally rating on overall enjoyment I would give a 7 but I can easily see others giving it an 8 or even a 9. This would be right up Macca's alley I reckon. Definitely give it a go though.
7/10
IMDB Info
The Wolverine
Getting so sick of comic book movies. The Wolverine is not a bad movie, in fact it would have to be one of the better comic movies. I like Jackman as the Wolverine character and there is something about being super strong, having protracting blades in your hands and the power of regeneration that appeals to every male. The story was 'ok' and I liked the setting of Japan.
But with all that said I still found it quite boring. Why do they makes these movies so damn long? Why not make it 90-120 minutes and keep it exciting, quick and interesting instead of padding it out!! zzzzzz
5/10
IMDB Info
Clear History
Comedy starring Larry David (he Co-made Seinfeld!!) about a man who forfeits his shareholding in the company he works after a disagreement with the boss. Big mistake as those shares end up being worth billions. Many years later in a new life he runs into his boss again and begins to plan revenge. An so the hilarity ensues.
Or so it should have...
I just don't find Larry David that funny on screen. He is a quirky character and can generate a smile here and there but nothing laugh out loud funny. This movie needed to be hilarious as it really had nothing else going for it.
If you love Larry David then definitely give this a go, else I wouldn't waste your time.
5/10
IMDB Info
Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa
I've only recently become a fan of Steve Coogan after Guy introduced me to 'The Trip'. I was not familiar with the Alan Partridge character going into this movie but quite enjoyed it regardless. Good British humor with a side of fun.
Not too much to say here except that it has enough laughs to keep you watching.
7/10
IMDB Info
Riddick
This is a hard one because I absolutely love Pitch Black. I thought Chronicles of Riddick was a piece of crap and now this 3rd installment I find somewhere in the middle. The story feels a lot closer to the first however still keeps ties with the second. The movie is absolute cheese on toast with horrible corny dialogue delivered very poorly throughout. I think my favourite was...
"I dont fuck guys... but sometimes I fuck them up"
*sigh* And to make that line worse it was delivered by Katee Sackhoff of Battlestar Galatica fame who I held in high regard after that series. This was definitely not her role but after reading that script I could imagine her motivation waned.
What keeps me going though is the character of Riddick. He's awesome! Vin Diesel just slips into the role so perfectly. A lot of the story involved Riddick himself surviving on an unknown world and there were some good scene's with him vs the wildlife. If you're a fan of the franchise I recommend grabbing some scotch or a wine and chucking this one on whilst turning off the brain for a couple of hours. It was enjoyable enough.
6/10
IMDB Info
Don Jon
J.G.L (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) has become a first rate actor. It has been great watching his career push forward from 3rd Rock to a plethora of indy films until finally making it big with massive films like Inception, Dark Knight Rises and Looper. Once again he gives a great performance and plays the lead role of Jon perfectly.
For me though the stand out was Scarlett Johansson. This would have to be one of, if not the best performances of her career. She transforms into the Jersey girl - accent, attitude, everything. Compare her in this role to say We Bought a Zoo - just an incredible contrast.
To summarise in a sentence - Don Jon follows the porn addicted Jon through failed relationship attempts and his journey of true sexual awakedness with an older lover Esther (played by Julianne Moore). It's a good watch - honest and real.
7/10
IMDB Info
The Kings of Summer
This probably deserved it's own review. A very unique film with terrific quirky characters and an atmosphere of adventure we all crave. The story follows a couple of friends dealing with different home life issues who befriend a very odd young fellow and run away into the forest near their town. They build themselves quite an impressive cabin and enjoy the freedom of living with their own rules and braving the wild.
The movie nearly has it all - comedy, drama, love and adventure. It is beautifully shot with scene's spliced with spectacular nature shots the crew must have caught while filming out there. There was a great scene with the boys drumming and dancing on a large pipe running through the forest - absolutely loved how they then used this drumming music in a tense scene later in the film.
All characters were great but Nick Offerman was sensational as one of the fathers. The more I see of this guy the more I like. Loved the Wonton's!
I'm stuck between giving it a 7 or an 8. I think for me personally rating on overall enjoyment I would give a 7 but I can easily see others giving it an 8 or even a 9. This would be right up Macca's alley I reckon. Definitely give it a go though.
7/10
IMDB Info
The Wolverine
Getting so sick of comic book movies. The Wolverine is not a bad movie, in fact it would have to be one of the better comic movies. I like Jackman as the Wolverine character and there is something about being super strong, having protracting blades in your hands and the power of regeneration that appeals to every male. The story was 'ok' and I liked the setting of Japan.
But with all that said I still found it quite boring. Why do they makes these movies so damn long? Why not make it 90-120 minutes and keep it exciting, quick and interesting instead of padding it out!! zzzzzz
5/10
IMDB Info
Clear History
Comedy starring Larry David (he Co-made Seinfeld!!) about a man who forfeits his shareholding in the company he works after a disagreement with the boss. Big mistake as those shares end up being worth billions. Many years later in a new life he runs into his boss again and begins to plan revenge. An so the hilarity ensues.
Or so it should have...
I just don't find Larry David that funny on screen. He is a quirky character and can generate a smile here and there but nothing laugh out loud funny. This movie needed to be hilarious as it really had nothing else going for it.
If you love Larry David then definitely give this a go, else I wouldn't waste your time.
5/10
IMDB Info
Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa
I've only recently become a fan of Steve Coogan after Guy introduced me to 'The Trip'. I was not familiar with the Alan Partridge character going into this movie but quite enjoyed it regardless. Good British humor with a side of fun.
Not too much to say here except that it has enough laughs to keep you watching.
7/10
IMDB Info
Guys Most Anticipated of 2014
So the year of 2013 is done and dusted and we already half way through
January 2014! It’s time to look ahead at the year that is to come and see what
is on offer. The following 10 movies are the ones that already have my
attention and I am eagerly awaiting their release date to get my ticket, grab
some popcorn (or for some of these movies: Ritalin) and line up to see them.
1. 12 Years a Slave
Though this film has already been out in the U.S. it’s only set to come out this year in Australia. From everything I've seen and read about I’m pretty sure it will be making my Number 1 spot for 2014. Directed by Steve McQueen and starring Chiwetel Ejiofor it looks to be a harrowing account of what slavery was like.
2. Interstellar
Christopher Nolan's next film. 'Nuff said. Oh, and it’s about: A group of explorers make use of a newly discovered wormhole to surpass the limitations on human space travel and conquer the vast distances involved in an interstellar voyage. Boom!
3. Transcendence
Christopher Nolan has always used Wally Pfister as his cinematographer and I think a large portion of his success in film can be directed towards the style and look, derived from the skill of Wally. I therefore cannot wait to see the directorial debut of Mr Pfister with his movie Transcendence.
4. Gone Girl
Directed by David Fincher, starring Ben Affleck, and Rosamund Pie and based on the bestselling book. It centres around the mystery of a woman disappearing on her wedding anniversary, and I am hoping like mad Mr Fincher will call back to his Zodiac making skills for this one.
(No trailer available yet) Released on October 2
5. The Monuments Men
Clooney, Damon, Murray, Goodman and Blanchett as art dealers convinced to head into the middle of the Second World War to recover the art stolen by Nazi's. It looks to be a wonderful conglomeration of comedy, tragedy and war action.
6. Tracks
A story about Robyn Davidson who walked from Alice Springs to the Indian Ocean on her own through the desert! It stars Mia Wasikowska and is a South Australian film production that looks simply epic. The cinematography is gorgeous and this will definitely be one to see at the cinema.
7. Nymphomaniac
I really don’t like Lars Von Trier movies, in fact I don’t think I’ve ever made it through to the end of one, but how he has the likes of Shia Lebouf, Charlotte Gainsburg, Uma Thurman, Willem Dafoe & Christian Slater to be involved in a movie with unstimulated sex scenes just calls out to be seen.
8. The Wolf of Wall Street
Again, it’s already out in the U.S. but another good ol Scorcese film starring Leo has got to be amazing. Also, I'm hearing that it goes pretty explicit in showing the excess that Jordan Belfont went through so it’ll be interesting to see Scorsese take it to the extreme.
9. Wolf Creek 2
I've only seen Wolf Creek once, but once was enough to have it seared into my brain for ever. I’ll be curious to see if they can replicate even half of what was good about the first. And I like to support Aussie horror flicks.
10. The Hobbit: There and Back Again
Readers of this site should know that I have a soft spot for this stuff, and so yes, I am already eagerly awaiting the release of the trailer sometime in June/July! And, for Boxing Day when I can get in line to see Smaug again!!
(No trailer for this one .... yet)
Released on December 26
Also, it appears that Aussie cinema will be having a bit of a boost in 2014 with a few major deals being successfully landed. I read a good piece at the IF website here about it if you are interested: http://if.com.au/2013/09/19/article/2014-A-banner-year-for-Oz-cinema/YTYEYIMNZJ.html
1. 12 Years a Slave
Though this film has already been out in the U.S. it’s only set to come out this year in Australia. From everything I've seen and read about I’m pretty sure it will be making my Number 1 spot for 2014. Directed by Steve McQueen and starring Chiwetel Ejiofor it looks to be a harrowing account of what slavery was like.
2. Interstellar
Christopher Nolan's next film. 'Nuff said. Oh, and it’s about: A group of explorers make use of a newly discovered wormhole to surpass the limitations on human space travel and conquer the vast distances involved in an interstellar voyage. Boom!
3. Transcendence
Christopher Nolan has always used Wally Pfister as his cinematographer and I think a large portion of his success in film can be directed towards the style and look, derived from the skill of Wally. I therefore cannot wait to see the directorial debut of Mr Pfister with his movie Transcendence.
4. Gone Girl
Directed by David Fincher, starring Ben Affleck, and Rosamund Pie and based on the bestselling book. It centres around the mystery of a woman disappearing on her wedding anniversary, and I am hoping like mad Mr Fincher will call back to his Zodiac making skills for this one.
(No trailer available yet) Released on October 2
5. The Monuments Men
Clooney, Damon, Murray, Goodman and Blanchett as art dealers convinced to head into the middle of the Second World War to recover the art stolen by Nazi's. It looks to be a wonderful conglomeration of comedy, tragedy and war action.
6. Tracks
A story about Robyn Davidson who walked from Alice Springs to the Indian Ocean on her own through the desert! It stars Mia Wasikowska and is a South Australian film production that looks simply epic. The cinematography is gorgeous and this will definitely be one to see at the cinema.
7. Nymphomaniac
I really don’t like Lars Von Trier movies, in fact I don’t think I’ve ever made it through to the end of one, but how he has the likes of Shia Lebouf, Charlotte Gainsburg, Uma Thurman, Willem Dafoe & Christian Slater to be involved in a movie with unstimulated sex scenes just calls out to be seen.
8. The Wolf of Wall Street
Again, it’s already out in the U.S. but another good ol Scorcese film starring Leo has got to be amazing. Also, I'm hearing that it goes pretty explicit in showing the excess that Jordan Belfont went through so it’ll be interesting to see Scorsese take it to the extreme.
9. Wolf Creek 2
I've only seen Wolf Creek once, but once was enough to have it seared into my brain for ever. I’ll be curious to see if they can replicate even half of what was good about the first. And I like to support Aussie horror flicks.
10. The Hobbit: There and Back Again
Readers of this site should know that I have a soft spot for this stuff, and so yes, I am already eagerly awaiting the release of the trailer sometime in June/July! And, for Boxing Day when I can get in line to see Smaug again!!
(No trailer for this one .... yet)
Released on December 26
Also, it appears that Aussie cinema will be having a bit of a boost in 2014 with a few major deals being successfully landed. I read a good piece at the IF website here about it if you are interested: http://if.com.au/2013/09/19/article/2014-A-banner-year-for-Oz-cinema/YTYEYIMNZJ.html
Mikes top 10 movies of 2013
My name is Mike and I'm an addict. It has been 12 hours since my last movie hit.
2013 was a fairly average year overall however there were some terrific standouts. For me, the top 10 list below makes it all worthwhile. Looking over the top 10 lists for Guy and Macca I'm pleased there is about a half half ratio of same choices and different ones. The variances can obviously come from different taste but I also think mood and experience come a lot into play as well. Quite often watching a great movie in the wrong mood can result in a skewed opinion. Personally this is why I love trawling through other people's top movie lists - just on the off chance of finding a movie I may have missed (heaven forbid, lol) or maybe misjudging one the first time so I give it another shot.
For movies that were initially reviewed on the site I have included a link in case you missed it.
Enjoy :)
10. The Purge - Thriller - This one just snuck in. I was divided between a few for this spot but in the end I think The Purge is worthy. The movie is good but I think it was the core idea of the story that I really liked. One night a year - the rules are off... Brilliant.
9. World War Z - Horror - Some people will think I'm crazy putting this one in here. I'm not going to call it one of the best movies of all time but it was a really great ride. With so many zombie flicks bombarding the screen it's hard to find ones that stand-out and push the bar forward. I think this one manages to stand out. Review
8. Prisoners - Thriller/Drama - Just a great, super-intense thriller with very dark undertones. Just how far would desperate fathers go to get back their kidnapped daughters? Not for the faint hearted :) Review
7. The Impossible - Thriller/Drama - I don't understand how some of these tsunami shots were done. So realistic and intense. Combine these with incredible shots in post tsunami landscapes showing the panic, the fear and desperation. Such a horrific event captured incredibly. Review
6. Europa Report - Sci-Fi - A low budget gem. The first 5 minutes may make you want to turn it off, but persevere and enjoy a great Sci-Fi flick. A must see for all Sci-Fi fans and a must have in my blu-ray collection. Review
5. The Conjuring - Horror/Thriller - Macca is one of the few people I know with the same thirst for horror as me. I know he won't agree with me having this one in the top 10 but for some reason I just completely loved it. Not sure if it was just the right night, the right mood, the right red... whatever it was I thought it was great from start to finish. Review
4. The Place Beyond The Pines - Drama - I still remember this as being one of those few exceptions where you watch a trailer and get all hyped up and then not be disappointed when you watch the film. Brilliant story, brilliant acting and very clever transition of story and character which I had not seen before. Review
3. Rush - Action/Sports - Just a great exciting movie to watch, even without being a fan of the sport. Loved how they captured the 70's/80's perfectly. Review
2. Byzantium - Fantasy/Horror - Guy may be a sucker for Peter Jackson, but I'm a sucker for vampires. This movie was so refreshing after the years of teenage vampire shit that has been destroying the genre *grumpy old man waves fist in the air*. Review
1. Gravity - Thriller/Drama - Wow. Just Wow. I was a late comer to this one and after reading Guy's initial review it was on the list to see, just couldn't get around to it. Last week I was pleased it was still showing in 3D so managed to catch a session. Forget story and realism, this movie is just an incredible experience. You are actually out there floating in space with these guys. It is technically perfect. Review
Bring on 2014!
Unfortunately I did not have a chance to watch the movies below - all of which I believe may have been top 10 candidates. Also, "12 years a Slave" which may have gone number 1, Guy and I are treating as 2014 and it is not being released until March in Australia, even though was out in the states in 2013.
Philomena
Filth
All is Lost
Short Term 12
Before Midnight
Out of the Furnace
Wolf of Wall Street
If you have seen any of the above, drop a comment in and let us know what you thought.
2013 was a fairly average year overall however there were some terrific standouts. For me, the top 10 list below makes it all worthwhile. Looking over the top 10 lists for Guy and Macca I'm pleased there is about a half half ratio of same choices and different ones. The variances can obviously come from different taste but I also think mood and experience come a lot into play as well. Quite often watching a great movie in the wrong mood can result in a skewed opinion. Personally this is why I love trawling through other people's top movie lists - just on the off chance of finding a movie I may have missed (heaven forbid, lol) or maybe misjudging one the first time so I give it another shot.
For movies that were initially reviewed on the site I have included a link in case you missed it.
Enjoy :)
10. The Purge - Thriller - This one just snuck in. I was divided between a few for this spot but in the end I think The Purge is worthy. The movie is good but I think it was the core idea of the story that I really liked. One night a year - the rules are off... Brilliant.
9. World War Z - Horror - Some people will think I'm crazy putting this one in here. I'm not going to call it one of the best movies of all time but it was a really great ride. With so many zombie flicks bombarding the screen it's hard to find ones that stand-out and push the bar forward. I think this one manages to stand out. Review
8. Prisoners - Thriller/Drama - Just a great, super-intense thriller with very dark undertones. Just how far would desperate fathers go to get back their kidnapped daughters? Not for the faint hearted :) Review
7. The Impossible - Thriller/Drama - I don't understand how some of these tsunami shots were done. So realistic and intense. Combine these with incredible shots in post tsunami landscapes showing the panic, the fear and desperation. Such a horrific event captured incredibly. Review
6. Europa Report - Sci-Fi - A low budget gem. The first 5 minutes may make you want to turn it off, but persevere and enjoy a great Sci-Fi flick. A must see for all Sci-Fi fans and a must have in my blu-ray collection. Review
5. The Conjuring - Horror/Thriller - Macca is one of the few people I know with the same thirst for horror as me. I know he won't agree with me having this one in the top 10 but for some reason I just completely loved it. Not sure if it was just the right night, the right mood, the right red... whatever it was I thought it was great from start to finish. Review
4. The Place Beyond The Pines - Drama - I still remember this as being one of those few exceptions where you watch a trailer and get all hyped up and then not be disappointed when you watch the film. Brilliant story, brilliant acting and very clever transition of story and character which I had not seen before. Review
3. Rush - Action/Sports - Just a great exciting movie to watch, even without being a fan of the sport. Loved how they captured the 70's/80's perfectly. Review
2. Byzantium - Fantasy/Horror - Guy may be a sucker for Peter Jackson, but I'm a sucker for vampires. This movie was so refreshing after the years of teenage vampire shit that has been destroying the genre *grumpy old man waves fist in the air*. Review
1. Gravity - Thriller/Drama - Wow. Just Wow. I was a late comer to this one and after reading Guy's initial review it was on the list to see, just couldn't get around to it. Last week I was pleased it was still showing in 3D so managed to catch a session. Forget story and realism, this movie is just an incredible experience. You are actually out there floating in space with these guys. It is technically perfect. Review
Bring on 2014!
Unfortunately I did not have a chance to watch the movies below - all of which I believe may have been top 10 candidates. Also, "12 years a Slave" which may have gone number 1, Guy and I are treating as 2014 and it is not being released until March in Australia, even though was out in the states in 2013.
Philomena
Filth
All is Lost
Short Term 12
Before Midnight
Out of the Furnace
Wolf of Wall Street
If you have seen any of the above, drop a comment in and let us know what you thought.
Heads Up - The best movies of 2013
Hello there dear blog readers,
Guy and I have been working hard on our separate rankings for the top 10 movies of 2013. We also have our mate Macca giving us his own top 10 to post as well! We are scrambling in to see a couple more movies and they will be ready to go.
We will be posting each list separately on Thurs, Fri and Sat nights so keep a look out. Hopefully you can spot a great movie or two you might have missed during the year.
I notice we are getting up near the 5000 hits mark as well! Thanks to everyone who takes the time to have a read and we look forward to keeping the reviews coming this year.
Cheers,
Mike & Guy
Guy and I have been working hard on our separate rankings for the top 10 movies of 2013. We also have our mate Macca giving us his own top 10 to post as well! We are scrambling in to see a couple more movies and they will be ready to go.
We will be posting each list separately on Thurs, Fri and Sat nights so keep a look out. Hopefully you can spot a great movie or two you might have missed during the year.
I notice we are getting up near the 5000 hits mark as well! Thanks to everyone who takes the time to have a read and we look forward to keeping the reviews coming this year.
Cheers,
Mike & Guy
The East
The East is a very deep and slowly paced film following the journey of a private intelligence agent who has her beliefs challenged by her latest assignment of infiltrating an anarchist group known as "The East". The group launch attacks on large corporations to expose the lies and cover-ups surrounding the true destruction of their greed. Their simple way of life and belief structure is quite appealing and it easy to see how the main character Sarah becomes more open to the truth of the modern world.
Written and directed by Zal Batmanglij this film definitely carries his style. I was not aware he was the director while watching but found myself drawing many connections to another of his films - The Sound of My Voice. If Zal is Batman then Brit Marling is definitely his Robin. Brit co-wrote this one also and like all of their movies takes the main role in front of the camera while Zal directs. I was interested to read after that a lot of the content of this film was taken from real experiences when Zal and Brit were without any money, hitching on trains with real anarchist groups.
Also thrown into the mix was Alexander Skarsgard (best known for True Blood series) and the lovely Ellen Page. Skarsgard was probably the stand out for me, Page was decent as usual as well. The role of Sarah has been tailored once again for Brit's acting strength which is definitely in the deep and dark. She acts a lot with her eyes which for a movie like this is perfect but I would like to see a completely different role for her and see if she has more range.
On a personal note I enjoyed watching justice be served to these tyrants. In this new information age we do have a lot of truth coming out about the real consequences of our decadent life style and 'progress' of the human race. However I can't help but feel we are only scratching the surface and it will be a long time yet before people wake up and demand real change.
As you can see this is a movie that keeps you thinking long after it's over. While slow paced I found it quite engrossing but I recommend watching when you're in the right mood. If you're craving a bit of action or something lighthearted I would save this for another night.
8/10
IMDB Info
Written and directed by Zal Batmanglij this film definitely carries his style. I was not aware he was the director while watching but found myself drawing many connections to another of his films - The Sound of My Voice. If Zal is Batman then Brit Marling is definitely his Robin. Brit co-wrote this one also and like all of their movies takes the main role in front of the camera while Zal directs. I was interested to read after that a lot of the content of this film was taken from real experiences when Zal and Brit were without any money, hitching on trains with real anarchist groups.
Also thrown into the mix was Alexander Skarsgard (best known for True Blood series) and the lovely Ellen Page. Skarsgard was probably the stand out for me, Page was decent as usual as well. The role of Sarah has been tailored once again for Brit's acting strength which is definitely in the deep and dark. She acts a lot with her eyes which for a movie like this is perfect but I would like to see a completely different role for her and see if she has more range.
On a personal note I enjoyed watching justice be served to these tyrants. In this new information age we do have a lot of truth coming out about the real consequences of our decadent life style and 'progress' of the human race. However I can't help but feel we are only scratching the surface and it will be a long time yet before people wake up and demand real change.
As you can see this is a movie that keeps you thinking long after it's over. While slow paced I found it quite engrossing but I recommend watching when you're in the right mood. If you're craving a bit of action or something lighthearted I would save this for another night.
8/10
IMDB Info
Jobs
I've always enjoyed films about real life success stories - they are motivating and inspiring. Even better when people come from nothing to reach the highest levels of success - such was the case for Steve Jobs and Apple computers.
Obviously a lot has changed since but I remember back in school the I.T types like myself were divided into two groups - Microsoft and Mac. Oh how we mocked the 'Mac' crowd yet how proudly and stubbornly they defended their beloved Macintosh. If I remember correctly there was also a strong connection with the Apple lovers and Star Trek compared to the Microsoft crowd and Star Wars. We waged nerd war!
Anyway, that's enough down memory lane. Back to the movie...
Jobs was a really enjoyable film. Reading up after watching it there is a lot of hate out there for it. "Terrible casting!" , "Terrible Acting" , "Glorifying a man made rich by exploiting his employees and their ideas".
I don't agree.
I thought Kutcher was decent as Steve Jobs. Definitely one of the most in depth roles in his career. And as for the man himself I think they showed well his darker sides and did not glorify him at all. He was portrayed as an extremely dedicated and obsessive visionary who would use whoever and whatever to achieve his goals. As with all entrepreneurs he relied on the technical genius of colleagues to create his products but he was the man with the grand vision. This tends to be how our world works as the technically minded lack the ability to think on the large scale. It is a symbiotic relationship.
I really enjoyed watching how the company was built, starting with manually building boards in his parents garage to creating a global empire. Would have been an exciting time in those early days. The first keyboard, the first mouse, the first PC. An incredible journey.
Jobs may have been an obsessive and cruel prick, so much so he even left behind the original apple founders who started it all with him. However I don't think Apple would exist today if he was not. He never gave up on his vision. Never lowered his expectations on what they could achieve and always ensured his products were driving the next level of innovation. Anyone who thinks he was not a huge factor in Apple's success is crazy. The company nearly went to ruin when he was kicked off the board and upon his return he brought it back to an absolute super power again.
Overall, an enjoyable movie about a very interesting guy!
7/10
IMDB Info
Obviously a lot has changed since but I remember back in school the I.T types like myself were divided into two groups - Microsoft and Mac. Oh how we mocked the 'Mac' crowd yet how proudly and stubbornly they defended their beloved Macintosh. If I remember correctly there was also a strong connection with the Apple lovers and Star Trek compared to the Microsoft crowd and Star Wars. We waged nerd war!
Anyway, that's enough down memory lane. Back to the movie...
Jobs was a really enjoyable film. Reading up after watching it there is a lot of hate out there for it. "Terrible casting!" , "Terrible Acting" , "Glorifying a man made rich by exploiting his employees and their ideas".
I don't agree.
I thought Kutcher was decent as Steve Jobs. Definitely one of the most in depth roles in his career. And as for the man himself I think they showed well his darker sides and did not glorify him at all. He was portrayed as an extremely dedicated and obsessive visionary who would use whoever and whatever to achieve his goals. As with all entrepreneurs he relied on the technical genius of colleagues to create his products but he was the man with the grand vision. This tends to be how our world works as the technically minded lack the ability to think on the large scale. It is a symbiotic relationship.
I really enjoyed watching how the company was built, starting with manually building boards in his parents garage to creating a global empire. Would have been an exciting time in those early days. The first keyboard, the first mouse, the first PC. An incredible journey.
Jobs may have been an obsessive and cruel prick, so much so he even left behind the original apple founders who started it all with him. However I don't think Apple would exist today if he was not. He never gave up on his vision. Never lowered his expectations on what they could achieve and always ensured his products were driving the next level of innovation. Anyone who thinks he was not a huge factor in Apple's success is crazy. The company nearly went to ruin when he was kicked off the board and upon his return he brought it back to an absolute super power again.
Overall, an enjoyable movie about a very interesting guy!
7/10
IMDB Info
Hours
Hours is an low budget indy (4 million) starring Paul Walker and directed by Eric Heisserer (The Thing 2011, Final Destination 5). It is set within a hospital during Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans.
Nolan (Walker) has just lost his wife in child birth and his very premature baby girl is placed in a ventilator to aid breathing. The hospital is evacuated as the city is flooded and Nolan is left behind to care for his daughter as conditions go from bad to worse.
There was a lot I appreciated about this movie. Being low budget you need to be clever about things and as the entire story was set within the hospital it was not only a great way to reduce set & location costs but created a nice claustrophobic feel. Walker showed a lot of depth in this role - I think I would say it's the best performance I have ever seen from him. (R.I.P) With the power out he must keep the ventilator going with a crank generator and dying backup battery which becomes one of the main elements of the story as he can only leave the room for minutes at a time before having to return to re-charge.
Despite the above positives I found myself getting a little bored at times. The generator was a realistic and interesting element but it almost became the entire movie. A few other things were thrown in the mix - a stray dog, some violent looters but that's about everything. I'm not sure if this was based on a true story, nothing was noted at the start or end of the film. If it was I can understand sticking to the truth, but if not some extra story elements would have kept up the pace and cured the boredom.
I wouldn't rush out to see this one unless you're a big Walker fan. If there's nothing else on the cards give it a go, it's not terrible.
6/10
IMDB Info
Nolan (Walker) has just lost his wife in child birth and his very premature baby girl is placed in a ventilator to aid breathing. The hospital is evacuated as the city is flooded and Nolan is left behind to care for his daughter as conditions go from bad to worse.
There was a lot I appreciated about this movie. Being low budget you need to be clever about things and as the entire story was set within the hospital it was not only a great way to reduce set & location costs but created a nice claustrophobic feel. Walker showed a lot of depth in this role - I think I would say it's the best performance I have ever seen from him. (R.I.P) With the power out he must keep the ventilator going with a crank generator and dying backup battery which becomes one of the main elements of the story as he can only leave the room for minutes at a time before having to return to re-charge.
Despite the above positives I found myself getting a little bored at times. The generator was a realistic and interesting element but it almost became the entire movie. A few other things were thrown in the mix - a stray dog, some violent looters but that's about everything. I'm not sure if this was based on a true story, nothing was noted at the start or end of the film. If it was I can understand sticking to the truth, but if not some extra story elements would have kept up the pace and cured the boredom.
I wouldn't rush out to see this one unless you're a big Walker fan. If there's nothing else on the cards give it a go, it's not terrible.
6/10
IMDB Info
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