Genre: Romantic Drama
Rating: 12
Main Actor: Jay Hernandez
Main Actress: Kirsten Dunst
YouTube: Film Trailer
This is a story of two people coming together from very different worlds and creating something perfect. Dunst plays Nicole, a rebellious and deeply troubled teenager, who seemingly enjoys the pleasures of a rich and prosperous family. Hernandez, on the other hand, plays Carlos, a dedicated and hardworking student fighting to make something of his life against all the odds. Considering their differing outlooks on life, it would be easy to assume that they would not appreaciate each other but in contrast, their relationship benefits both parties. Carlos gives Nicole the love and affection she desperately needs, whilst Nicole allows Carlos to see the pleasure in simply enjoying his youth, showing him that dedication and fun are not irreconcilable...
The script is thoughtful and powerful, yet remains realistic. There is also affective use of imagery during the film. For example, Nicole is first seen picking up trash on a beach under a pier, metaphorically the lowest of the low but by the end, she is high on a hillside with the rest of her life ahead of her. He gives her something to live for.
There is an effective use of music, using tracks from both cultures displayed, and an extended theme of photography, chartering their relationship and Nicole's need for control and freedom. Whilst this may be a 'teen' film, it has a sweet message and can be enjoyed by anyone who has wondered who they were or where they were going.
Rating: 8/10
Friday, 25 July 2008
Thursday, 24 July 2008
Riding In Cars With Boys (2001)
Genre: Drama
Rating: 12
Main Actor: Steve Zahn
Main Actress: Drew Barrymore
YouTube: Film Trailer
This film displays Barrymore's true class as an actress, taking her away from the sweet and fluffy roles such as Josie in 'Never Been Kissed', and placing her in a role that is difficult to feel affection towards. Beverly is self-obsessed, foolish and lacks all sense of responsibility. Her mind is so completely focused on her own dreams, she fails in so many areas of her life - as a parent, as a wife, as a daughter...
Beverly (Barrymore) is a typical teenage girl, growing up in suburban 1960s America, until one night with Ray (Zahn) changes her world forever. Her development as a character is shown through her interactions with other people, especially her father, her son and her husband, but ultimately through her acceptance of responsibility and the life she has made for herself. Whilst it is difficult to truly like her character, Barrymore's performance is wonderful as she displays the varying layers of Beverly's nature, allowing glimpses of a softer, more approachable person.
The story effectively uses flashback sequences to tell the majority of the story, allowing the audience to compare Beverly's character as she battles with the various obstacles placed in the way of her dream. Furthermore, the inclusion of other characters, such as her friends Fay (Brittany Murphy) and Tina (Sara Gilbert), makes clear comparisons with the path Beverly is unwittingly forced to take in life.
There are some incredibly touching moments during this film, and the use of the song 'Dream' to begin and end the journey we take with Beverly is both affective and moving. Whilst this may not be Barrymore's most remembered role, it should certainly be valued, as there is a little bit of Beverly in all of us and witnessing this emotional journey with the character is worthwhile and ultimately beautiful.
Rating: 8/10
Rating: 12
Main Actor: Steve Zahn
Main Actress: Drew Barrymore
YouTube: Film Trailer
This film displays Barrymore's true class as an actress, taking her away from the sweet and fluffy roles such as Josie in 'Never Been Kissed', and placing her in a role that is difficult to feel affection towards. Beverly is self-obsessed, foolish and lacks all sense of responsibility. Her mind is so completely focused on her own dreams, she fails in so many areas of her life - as a parent, as a wife, as a daughter...
Beverly (Barrymore) is a typical teenage girl, growing up in suburban 1960s America, until one night with Ray (Zahn) changes her world forever. Her development as a character is shown through her interactions with other people, especially her father, her son and her husband, but ultimately through her acceptance of responsibility and the life she has made for herself. Whilst it is difficult to truly like her character, Barrymore's performance is wonderful as she displays the varying layers of Beverly's nature, allowing glimpses of a softer, more approachable person.
The story effectively uses flashback sequences to tell the majority of the story, allowing the audience to compare Beverly's character as she battles with the various obstacles placed in the way of her dream. Furthermore, the inclusion of other characters, such as her friends Fay (Brittany Murphy) and Tina (Sara Gilbert), makes clear comparisons with the path Beverly is unwittingly forced to take in life.
There are some incredibly touching moments during this film, and the use of the song 'Dream' to begin and end the journey we take with Beverly is both affective and moving. Whilst this may not be Barrymore's most remembered role, it should certainly be valued, as there is a little bit of Beverly in all of us and witnessing this emotional journey with the character is worthwhile and ultimately beautiful.
Rating: 8/10
The Painted Veil (2007)
Genre: Romantic Drama
Rating: 12
Main Actor: Edward Norton
Main Actress: Naomi Watts
YouTube: Film Trailer
This is an incredibly beautiful film about the distance between two people and the line between love and hate. The hatred and conflict between Kitty (Watts) and Walter (Norton) is juxtaposed to the wonderful, breathtaking scenery of the Chinese mountains - a case where filming on location more than paid off. Whilst both characters have flaws - be it egotism, jealousy, pride or vengefulness - the film charters their journey towards reconciliation, during which time redeeming features can be seen through the surface of unpleasantness.
Taking place in the 1920s during a cholera outbreak, Walter takes his wife into the heart of the danger zone out of spite and pure brutality. Despite the risks involved this step allows both characters to develop and to grow to recognise each other in their truest forms. Hence, this film is about human relationships, and specifically love, on a back drop of death, pain and despair.
There is particularly effective use of flashbacks during the film, ensuring the audience completely understand the path which has led Kitty and Walter to this distant place. Coupled with aptly selected musical pieces, this film leads to a heartbreaking climax which never fails to bring a tear to my eye. No it is not a fast-paced blockbuster, instead it takes viewing to a level above and beyond that, to a beautiful place that touches even the hardest of film audiences...
Rating: 9.5/10
Rating: 12
Main Actor: Edward Norton
Main Actress: Naomi Watts
YouTube: Film Trailer
This is an incredibly beautiful film about the distance between two people and the line between love and hate. The hatred and conflict between Kitty (Watts) and Walter (Norton) is juxtaposed to the wonderful, breathtaking scenery of the Chinese mountains - a case where filming on location more than paid off. Whilst both characters have flaws - be it egotism, jealousy, pride or vengefulness - the film charters their journey towards reconciliation, during which time redeeming features can be seen through the surface of unpleasantness.
Taking place in the 1920s during a cholera outbreak, Walter takes his wife into the heart of the danger zone out of spite and pure brutality. Despite the risks involved this step allows both characters to develop and to grow to recognise each other in their truest forms. Hence, this film is about human relationships, and specifically love, on a back drop of death, pain and despair.
There is particularly effective use of flashbacks during the film, ensuring the audience completely understand the path which has led Kitty and Walter to this distant place. Coupled with aptly selected musical pieces, this film leads to a heartbreaking climax which never fails to bring a tear to my eye. No it is not a fast-paced blockbuster, instead it takes viewing to a level above and beyond that, to a beautiful place that touches even the hardest of film audiences...
Rating: 9.5/10
Tuesday, 22 July 2008
Hancock (2008)
Genre: Action
Rating: 12A
Main Actor: Will Smith
Main Actress: Charlize Theron
YouTube: Film Trailer
I've just seen this film, all be it reluctantly, and have been pleasantly surprised. I am a fan of Smith's work, although some of his role choices are so far removed from my film-viewing interests that I have to pass, and thus should not be too surprised at his ability in this film. He perfected the balance between humour, sadness, vulnerability, strength, fear and courage throughout his performance - his eyes being particularly useful tools in doing so.
The first half of the film is somewhat different to the latter half, but it would be unfair to say the emotional focus of the latter half was wholly unconnected to the comic adventures of Hancock, the drunken superhero. Especially as, even amidst the humour, Smith was able to portray the grief and loneliness of his character, in a beautifully subtle way.
Is this a barrel of laughs? No. Rather, much like life, it has moments of humour but also moments of sadness. The story has a very human core, despite being about a supernatural being, which shines through the special affects and demonstrations of power. Henceforth, this film manages to bring together drama, action, comedy and, to some degree, tragedy resulting in a wonderful film for people of all ages.
Rating: 7/10
Rating: 12A
Main Actor: Will Smith
Main Actress: Charlize Theron
YouTube: Film Trailer
I've just seen this film, all be it reluctantly, and have been pleasantly surprised. I am a fan of Smith's work, although some of his role choices are so far removed from my film-viewing interests that I have to pass, and thus should not be too surprised at his ability in this film. He perfected the balance between humour, sadness, vulnerability, strength, fear and courage throughout his performance - his eyes being particularly useful tools in doing so.
The first half of the film is somewhat different to the latter half, but it would be unfair to say the emotional focus of the latter half was wholly unconnected to the comic adventures of Hancock, the drunken superhero. Especially as, even amidst the humour, Smith was able to portray the grief and loneliness of his character, in a beautifully subtle way.
Is this a barrel of laughs? No. Rather, much like life, it has moments of humour but also moments of sadness. The story has a very human core, despite being about a supernatural being, which shines through the special affects and demonstrations of power. Henceforth, this film manages to bring together drama, action, comedy and, to some degree, tragedy resulting in a wonderful film for people of all ages.
Rating: 7/10
Monday, 21 July 2008
The Magdalene Sisters (2003)
Genre: Drama
Rating: 18
Main Actor: Daniel Costello
Main Actresses: Anne-Marie Duff, Nora-Jane Noone, Dorothy Duffy & Geraldine McEwan
YouTube: Film Opening
This is not a film for the faint hearted. It charters a turbulent fight for freedom against Catholic oppression, following three young women as they attempt to regain control over their lives. Duff puts in a first class performance, although her character, Margaret, lacks the spark and energy displayed by Noone's Bernadette. Another remarkable performance is that of McEwan, who encompasses the hatred, cruelty and seeming lack of humanity in her character to such a degree that it is hard to sympathise or even to reason with her motivations.
The story follows the lives of the young women turned over to the Magdalene Laundries, supposedly for their unholy actions - usually involving young men. Yet, as the opening scenes show, families afraid of shame or people looking to rid themselves of potentially troublesome women could force girls into these prisons, leaving them little hope of a normal life. For someone as removed from the situation as I, it is hard to imagine a family abandoning their loved ones for "crimes" such as those portrayed, yet it presents a realistic image of life in that society and has even been said to be "too soft" on the reality by women who have experienced the Laundries first hand.
Whilst there are many scenes that leave you feeling emotionally unstable, the film displays comradeship among women and shows the true value of freedom when we can no longer take it for granted. No it will not make you laugh, but it is a worthy film that deserves to be witnessed as it displays a life that seems so hard to imagine, yet occurred not so long ago...
Rating: 9/10
Rating: 18
Main Actor: Daniel Costello
Main Actresses: Anne-Marie Duff, Nora-Jane Noone, Dorothy Duffy & Geraldine McEwan
YouTube: Film Opening
This is not a film for the faint hearted. It charters a turbulent fight for freedom against Catholic oppression, following three young women as they attempt to regain control over their lives. Duff puts in a first class performance, although her character, Margaret, lacks the spark and energy displayed by Noone's Bernadette. Another remarkable performance is that of McEwan, who encompasses the hatred, cruelty and seeming lack of humanity in her character to such a degree that it is hard to sympathise or even to reason with her motivations.
The story follows the lives of the young women turned over to the Magdalene Laundries, supposedly for their unholy actions - usually involving young men. Yet, as the opening scenes show, families afraid of shame or people looking to rid themselves of potentially troublesome women could force girls into these prisons, leaving them little hope of a normal life. For someone as removed from the situation as I, it is hard to imagine a family abandoning their loved ones for "crimes" such as those portrayed, yet it presents a realistic image of life in that society and has even been said to be "too soft" on the reality by women who have experienced the Laundries first hand.
Whilst there are many scenes that leave you feeling emotionally unstable, the film displays comradeship among women and shows the true value of freedom when we can no longer take it for granted. No it will not make you laugh, but it is a worthy film that deserves to be witnessed as it displays a life that seems so hard to imagine, yet occurred not so long ago...
Rating: 9/10
Amazing Grace (2007)
Genre: Drama
Rating: PG
Main Actor: Ioan Gruffudd
Main Actress: Romola Garai
YouTube: Film Trailer
Just a mention of this film brings a tear to my eye - even more so since I embarked on the journey that is the William Hague biography of William Wilberforce. It truly is an emotional journey with a beating heart, in the form of Gruffudd's Wilberforce, and a virus to be overcome in the form of the political opposition, including actors such as Ciarán Hinds.
The song, Amazing Grace, is used throughout the film and ensures that the message of the film reaches the very core of its audience. Coupled with Gruffudd's incredible performance - his ability to relay the charismatic speeches of Wilberforce with dedication and energy, and the vulnerability he displays in his countenance - it takes a stone soul to be able to watch this film unmoved.
It has a message yet does not appear condescending or patronising. Rather, it takes you on a journey, enlightens those yet to be so, and acts as a wonderful portrayal of this magnificent, climatic moment in history. The message is that of determination, courage and strength - to never back down. And for that reason alone, this is a film that should be treasured and adored.
Rating: 9/10
Rating: PG
Main Actor: Ioan Gruffudd
Main Actress: Romola Garai
YouTube: Film Trailer
Just a mention of this film brings a tear to my eye - even more so since I embarked on the journey that is the William Hague biography of William Wilberforce. It truly is an emotional journey with a beating heart, in the form of Gruffudd's Wilberforce, and a virus to be overcome in the form of the political opposition, including actors such as Ciarán Hinds.
The song, Amazing Grace, is used throughout the film and ensures that the message of the film reaches the very core of its audience. Coupled with Gruffudd's incredible performance - his ability to relay the charismatic speeches of Wilberforce with dedication and energy, and the vulnerability he displays in his countenance - it takes a stone soul to be able to watch this film unmoved.
It has a message yet does not appear condescending or patronising. Rather, it takes you on a journey, enlightens those yet to be so, and acts as a wonderful portrayal of this magnificent, climatic moment in history. The message is that of determination, courage and strength - to never back down. And for that reason alone, this is a film that should be treasured and adored.
Rating: 9/10
Sunday, 20 July 2008
Freedom Writers (2007)
Genre: Drama
Rating: 12A
Main Actor: Jason Finn
Main Actress: Hilary Swank
YouTube: Film Trailer
I found this film deeply moving - to tears in fact - due to the richness of character and the complexity of the situation. Although they had many characters to present, I felt the were successful in allowing us a glimpse into their individual stories, which made the shift from hatred to comradeship more significant for the audience.
At times, the gang violence and racial hatreds can be a little difficult to digest and the use of flashbacks and voice overs can make the story complicated to follow at first. However, the latter actually enhances the film as it allows for the depth of coverage without turning the film into a 17 hour marathon.
It makes you question your own stance on issues and life in general. Have you ever experience this sort of tension? Do you share the racial gang mentality? Would you fight to give these teenagers a chance? And, in the case of Hilary Swank's character, Erin Gruwell, would you sacrifice your private life for your students?
The soundtrack is very complimentary, in particular the song 'A Dream' by Common, which draws upon Martin Luther King's speeches. Furthermore, the cinematography is impressive ensuring the film is a moving experience on many levels - emotionally, visually, auditory.
If you want to have a more realistic glimpse at a world that is often presented as 'cool' in video games and to be moved by the unity that develops against all odds, then this is a film not to be missed. A film of substance to be savoured.
Rating: 8/10
Rating: 12A
Main Actor: Jason Finn
Main Actress: Hilary Swank
YouTube: Film Trailer
I found this film deeply moving - to tears in fact - due to the richness of character and the complexity of the situation. Although they had many characters to present, I felt the were successful in allowing us a glimpse into their individual stories, which made the shift from hatred to comradeship more significant for the audience.
At times, the gang violence and racial hatreds can be a little difficult to digest and the use of flashbacks and voice overs can make the story complicated to follow at first. However, the latter actually enhances the film as it allows for the depth of coverage without turning the film into a 17 hour marathon.
It makes you question your own stance on issues and life in general. Have you ever experience this sort of tension? Do you share the racial gang mentality? Would you fight to give these teenagers a chance? And, in the case of Hilary Swank's character, Erin Gruwell, would you sacrifice your private life for your students?
The soundtrack is very complimentary, in particular the song 'A Dream' by Common, which draws upon Martin Luther King's speeches. Furthermore, the cinematography is impressive ensuring the film is a moving experience on many levels - emotionally, visually, auditory.
If you want to have a more realistic glimpse at a world that is often presented as 'cool' in video games and to be moved by the unity that develops against all odds, then this is a film not to be missed. A film of substance to be savoured.
Rating: 8/10
Girl From Rio (2003)
Genre: Comedy
Rating: 15
Main Actor: Hugh Laurie
Main Actress: Vanessa Nunes
YouTube: Interview with Hugh Laurie
The film titles open to the sound of drums and brass instruments before fixing upon the face of Hugh Laurie reading a Samba magazine. Huge Laurie plays Raymond, an unsatisfied bank clerk with a love for samba and a wife who doesn't love him. After setting the scene in the wet and un-exotic London, and presenting a few laughs with the Samba class Raymond teaches, the pace quickly changes as Raymond embarks on a far reaching adventure in Rio. After all, what else would you do if your wife left you for your boss? In other words, things really should be taken with a pinch of salt...
The film maintains a rather simplistic outlook and does not over complicate matters with excessive quantities of characters. Hence, when in Rio, Raymond befriends a taxi driver and finds the professional samba dancer Orlinda, with whom much of the film is based. The only other character of significance is the local gangster, who acts as an obstacle to be overcome by Raymond and Orlinda.
Generally light-hearted, frequently amusing and in some cases rather silly, Girl From Rio offers simple entertainment value and a feel-good ending. The music is beautiful and the dancing is better than expected, although there isn't nearly enough of either considering Hugh Laurie's character is so completely samba obsessed that he flew all the way to Rio just to meet a dancer at Christmas. If you are looking for a deep and meaningful story, this isn't for you. But, if you just want a few laughs in a non-offensive way, then this is definitely a viable option.
Rating: 6/10
Rating: 15
Main Actor: Hugh Laurie
Main Actress: Vanessa Nunes
YouTube: Interview with Hugh Laurie
The film titles open to the sound of drums and brass instruments before fixing upon the face of Hugh Laurie reading a Samba magazine. Huge Laurie plays Raymond, an unsatisfied bank clerk with a love for samba and a wife who doesn't love him. After setting the scene in the wet and un-exotic London, and presenting a few laughs with the Samba class Raymond teaches, the pace quickly changes as Raymond embarks on a far reaching adventure in Rio. After all, what else would you do if your wife left you for your boss? In other words, things really should be taken with a pinch of salt...
The film maintains a rather simplistic outlook and does not over complicate matters with excessive quantities of characters. Hence, when in Rio, Raymond befriends a taxi driver and finds the professional samba dancer Orlinda, with whom much of the film is based. The only other character of significance is the local gangster, who acts as an obstacle to be overcome by Raymond and Orlinda.
Generally light-hearted, frequently amusing and in some cases rather silly, Girl From Rio offers simple entertainment value and a feel-good ending. The music is beautiful and the dancing is better than expected, although there isn't nearly enough of either considering Hugh Laurie's character is so completely samba obsessed that he flew all the way to Rio just to meet a dancer at Christmas. If you are looking for a deep and meaningful story, this isn't for you. But, if you just want a few laughs in a non-offensive way, then this is definitely a viable option.
Rating: 6/10
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