Friday, 30 December 2011

Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol

It's Tom Cruise and he's back at what he is good at!

Yet again, a Mission Impossible sequel that is engaging and enjoyable than the last one. We tend to like these films as a lot of planning goes on when releasing sequels such as these.

Nice to see a black female supporting actress in Paula Patton. Expect to see a lot more of her.

Been left wide open for a 5th movie. Who knows when that will be out!

A nice end to the year!

8

Saturday, 24 December 2011

The Polar Express

Whoa! where have I been for the last 7 years! I have neglected this film and I do not know why. Was very fitting to watch for a lazy Christmas Eve day and I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the content, animation, CGI and the story.

Animation was great and so REAL. Emotions were REAL and it felt very BELIEVABLE.

Would be awesome to watch in 3D.

8

Don 2

Yes, another sequel. Extremely tedious affair, full of loopholes. I thought Sherlock Holmes 2 was bad!

This is a movie I was looking forward to; Priyanka Chopra made it slightly bearable but she was hardly in it. I am looking forward to seeing her in Agneepath which also looks promising.

Back to the film; I will admit that the special effects were indeed very good and matched Hollywood. It is just that the plot was totally unbelievable. Once again, the first movie was much better.

In my opinion, SRK is at the end of the road.

6

Sherlock Holmes 2

A disappointing sequel in my opinion. I wasn't a huge fan of the first and secretly was hoping this would be better.

I think Jude Law had a lesser role in this movie. I would have liked to have seen more of him. Robert Downey Junior is turning into George Clooney; people see his movies regardless of the roles he plays.

Left open ended yet again for a 3rd instalment which I assure you, I WON'T WATCH!

5.5

Sunday, 18 December 2011

Delhi Belly

Needed cheering up on a dreary sunday but unfortunately this did not do the trick.

I found it crude and not very funny to be honest. When it comes to bollywood humour they should really stick to jokes/humour such as in 3 idiots. I think this movie tried to be like a commercial hollywood movie but it just did not work.

I am so glad it was not 3 hours long!

5

Killer Elite

Not your typical Jason Statham movie - this one is actually based on a true story and it also stars the great Robert De Niro for support.

I found it a tad long, but the content was quite good. Story was engaging and not as predictable as I thought it would be.

It was quite enjoyable. Would like to see more of Robert De Niro though...

7

Thursday, 15 December 2011

The Thing

Prequel to the 1982 movie which is actually not too bad.

Makes you jump in a few places, although it is a little tame for me. I guess I am used to much hardcore stuff!

Features relative unknowns who pulled off a decent movie.

6.5

Tuesday, 13 December 2011

My Week With Marilyn

Superb film here; a movie is made out of nothing to be honest.

Just the way The Kings Speech was made on the basis of a friendship, this movie also depicts the friendship between Marilyn Monroe and Colin Clark who was the 3rd Assistant Director on a Laurence Olivier film.

The film is based on a true story and I must say that Michelle Williams pulled off Marilyn Monroe like no other. She was perfect for the role.

Fabulous and very different.

8.5

Hugo 3D

A spectacular family film here in 3D which is Scorcese's first.

I wonder if he will do more of these kind of movies. The performances from the youngsters are top notch. As is Ben Kingsley and Sacha Baron Cohen who is as quirky as ever!

3D effects are very good - the movie was specially filmed in 3D as opposed to being converted into 3D later.

My only gripe is that more could have been done with the french accents. I think they were not used as it kids in the audience would have found it hard to understand.

8

Saturday, 3 December 2011

Puncture

Read the synopsis on this and seemed quite interesting.

It was a film that was not given a wide release. I thought Chris Evans playing a junkie lawyer sounded quite different to what he normally does.

He acted very well in it although I expected the story to be a little more gripping. Nevertheless, it was based on a true story and made me aware of something I did not know before.

Worth a watch

6.5

Immortals 3D

There was nothing at the theatre of note, so decided to take a gamble with this.

It was actually quite enjoyable, I would have preferred not to watch it in 3D. There was no real need to watch in 3D but I had no choice.

Special effects were good. And the way the ending was portrayed, it is likely that there will be a sequel.

Acting was a little monotonous. That's probably my only criticism.

6.5

Wednesday, 30 November 2011

Margin Call

I was really looking forward to watching this.

Kevin Spacey and Jeremy Irons was going to be intriguing. However, I feel there was a lack of thrill factor and I was left a little disappointed. I preferred the new Wall Street remake instead.

There is lots and lots of talking so you need to pay attention. I feel Stanley Tucci was under used and should have had more of a role in the movie, perhaps as a different character.

6

Tuesday, 29 November 2011

One Day

A very sweet movie starring my all time favourite, Anne Hathaway.

Admittedly her scottish and british accent was no good, and she has been slated for it in reviews!

I understand it is based on a book but I have not read it. I liked the idea of the flashback, and the fact that they revisit the same day every year.

Some how the film worked. Jim Sturgess gives an impressive performance.

7.5

50/50

This is a true story about a young man and his battle with cancer. Seth Rogen provides the laughs but the movie has its emotional and sad bits as well.

Surprisingly food performance by Joseph Gordon-Levitt with the cute Anna Kendrick supporting.

The movie does not go over the top. The characters seem very real and its a joy to watch.

Possibly a best movie of the year candidate.

8

Rockstar

Oh, did I mention the second viewing?

Loved it as much as the first!

9.6 :)

Tuesday, 22 November 2011

Justice

Trailers for this a few weeks ago look really promising.

Nicholas Cage is always a treat to watch. Having recently watched Trespass, I was looking forward to seeing him in action yet again.

Guy Pearce does well to the play the bad guy. However, January Jones, while incredibly satisfying to look at disappoints again in the acting department.

In my opinion, another film that starts so well, but kind of loses the plot and tension 3/4's of the way through.

Not bad though.

6.5

Jinnah

Never got round to watching this film since 1998; finally had a chance as it was on TV!

This was really good; totally underrated in my opinion. This movie did not get the release it deserved. Everybody knows Gandhi; but hardly anyone knew who Mohammad Ali Jinnah was. As we all know, he was the founder of Pakistan.

He went through a lot of personal struggle and hardship to get the independence of this country. Made many sacrifices on the way too. It was clever the way the way the movie commenced, so much so that it made the movie even more gripping.

A well deserved 8.

Rockstar

WOW - what can I say?

Totally blown away by the fabulous music and amazing acting by Ranbir Kapoor.

Yes, the story was not all that great, it was very typical, but Ranbir's versatility is very apparent in this movie. His lip-synching is top notch when it came to singing songs; it really sounded as though he was singing them; it made all the difference.

New-comer, Nargis Fakhri brings the glamour to the role. I thought she did not do too badly for her first film. Critics have slated her performance. In my opinion, she can only improve.

Enjoyed this so much, that I am going to watch it again this week!

10!!!

Friday, 11 November 2011

The Devil's Double

Based on true events, this is the story of a man who was recruited to be Uday Saddam Hussein's body double.

It offers an amazing insight into the life of the Iraqi President and his family, in particular his son, Uday. It was harrowing it at times though.

Some scenes are quite terrible to watch. It's a movie I was unable to see as I was out of the country at the time. I saw the trailer and was blown away by it. It certainly lived upto my expectations though.

Yes, it is a little unrealistic and there are flaws, yet it is enjoyable.

7.5

Wednesday, 9 November 2011

Trespass

Joel Schumacher returns to the chair for the latest Nicholas Cage offering. He is paired up with Nicole Kidman this time and the plot is similar to what we have seen before many times. Hostage situation, thieves breaking into home needing lots of money.

Unfortunately, this film did not have much to offer. The plot was not original and the twists were not really that surprising.

I expected more from Mr Schumacher; maybe he should stick to animation?

6

In Time

I think this kind of movie is what Justin Timberlake is suited to. He should not do romantic comedies (Friends With Benefits.)

It was an interesting concept and it worked for me. Yes, I admit, by the end, it was starting to get a little silly, but it was good fun and exciting. There were a handful of plot holes, but they were minor in the grand scheme of things.

If you are after a good action movie with a sci-fi edge, then watch this!

7

Larry Crowne

Unfortunately I missed the movie when it was out in the theatres previously. I am a big Tom Hanks fan and the fact that he was going to star opposite Julia Roberts was going to be interesting.

It did not live upto expectations however. It was not very nice to see Julia Roberts NOT smile. She was very grumpy in it; although I would have to commend her for a bit of a role reversal! Unquestionably, this was Tom Hanks film. If it wasn't for him, it would have been a huge failure!

Not bad; but not great either.

6

Monday, 31 October 2011

The Human Centipede 2

Well, after watching the first, i just had to see this. Fortunately it was the cut version.

Still very graphic.

Liked the idea of it being filmed in black and white. Gave the film an appropriate tone.

Some very depraved acts. I'm glad that it was not in colour!

Seems likely there is going to be a 3rd.

Could have been more shocking?

6

Ides Of March

Finally a political thriller which I found extremely gripping.

Ryan Gosling has surely made his mark. He has been in so many movies this year. I've enjoyed all of them.

So many good performances in this film, Paul Giamatti is brilliant as usual as is Philip Seymour Hoffman.

Some may say the film has an open ending and has thus spoilt it. Not for me; infact it has made me think about it even more!

8

Sunday, 30 October 2011

Contagion

All-star cast including Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Winslett. Surprisingly good story here.

High shock factor, very effective. Seemed very believable.

Loved the ending as to how the virus originated. Far fetched I know, but nevertheless, it kept me guessing and attentive. What more do you need?

7.5

Monday, 24 October 2011

Bodyguard

No, this is not the old Whitney Houston movie. It is a new bollywood film starring Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor.

What can I say? Only reason for watching this was because people really liked it. I should have known better. The songs were good, but the acting was terrible. As for special effects? They were appalling!

I'm pleased it was 2 hours long. Had it been 3 I would have switched off!

4

Johnny English Reborn

Funny movie, Rowan Atkinson reminded me of his famous character, Mr Bean. I think this is why he film is grossing well. People like to see him in that role.

There was not so many funny parts, but it was just his silly antics that brought the movie to life.

It was good entertainment, the story was weak though.

6.5

Real Steel

Was expecting another silly transformers type film, but was very surprised. Action and graphics were awesome. Was particularly impressed with the boys acting and also of Evangeline Lilly who I have not seen before.

The story was extremely good. Particularly suitable for people of all ages. I liked the fact that there was a human touch to it amongst all the robots and that the storyline was decent.

Left wide open for a sequel which might not be a good thing though.

8

Sunday, 9 October 2011

Midnight In Paris

Woody Allen comes up with some strange stuff, and this was extremely wierd! I am pleased it was only 90 minutes long.

I just could not see the whole point of it and it is not really a "romcom." Owen Wilson plays a crazy idiot again as per usual.

Rachel McAdam is hardly in it unfortunately.

Just a 5 from me!

Crazy Stupid Love

Another good comedy drama to have surfaced this year.

I really like Steve Carrell and also Ryan Gosling seems to be making his well deserved mark in cinema these days; he is very talented.

I felt Julianne Moore was a little OTT but the rest of the cast were spot on. The young boy was especially good and the whole story was very simple, but the impact was big.

I just loved the surprised twist at the end; totally did not see it coming.

A must watch in my opinion!

8

Hesher

This was one strange movie...

Rather refreshing and down to earth however. I think anyone could relate to this movie in some way or form. "Hesher" was an extremely strange character! But it sort of all came good in the end for him.

Natalie Portman was supporting; would like to have seen a bit more of her but she wasn't supposed to be the star of the show this time.

6.5

Sunday, 2 October 2011

Melancholia

Artsy film here by Kirsten Dunst who you will see in a total role reversal. She plays a crazed psychotic woman who is able to forsee things.

I must warn you that this film is not for everyone. Charlotte Gainsborough plays yet another psychotic role in this as well. It is a thoroughly depressing affair.

I cannot say I enjoyed it and neither do I get the whole point of the film to be honest.

6

Fast Five

High octane and high speed action film. Unfortunately I missed this when it was in the cinema so |I've only just caught up with it now on DVD. It was pretty good; the car chases and action were quite thrilling.

As much as I would like to think the series is over, something inside me tells me that maybe not!

I thought it was a tad a bit too long.

Otherwise not so bad.

7

Tuesday, 27 September 2011

Warrior

Superb film. Only big name I recognised was Nick Nolte. His acting was so good!

It's emotional without being sappy. It's funny without being goofy. It's inspirational without going over the top. It's hard to say anything bad about it.

Prepare to be surprised by all three main performances.

And yes, before you ask, it did make me cry ;)

9

Sunday, 25 September 2011

Drive

High-Octane movie here not for the weak-hearted!

Tremendous movie; albeit slightly cliche. Loved the ending; it keeps you guessing.

Yes, it is another heist story, but this is different! Watch it and see! Ryan Gosling is the driver with a heart of gold :-)

Superb, really enjoyed it

8

The Change Up

Lots and lots of laughs here with Jason Bateman and Ryan Reynolds.

Jason Bateman has done a lot of movies this past year. In my opinion he is a very likeable person and I seem to enjoy his movies a lot. I think i've seen all of them so far!

Understandbly he plays a similar role in each of them, but would like him to be a little more versatile! I am sure we have all that to come from him!

Back to the movie; there are a few funny moments and it did make me laugh out loud - that is always a good thing!

It's a strange and wierd concept, but it worked for me; perhaps not for everyone!

7.5 :-)

Blitz

British cop drama starring the ever versatile Jason Statham. His roles unfortunately all are the same, but it's a good thing that I never tire from watching him!

I thought it was very good; action sequences were racy and heart-pumping.

Not the best ending; felt the movie was rushed towards it.

Nevertheless, an enjoyable ride!

7

Colombiana

Slick and stylish movie here from Luc Besson.

Not quite as awesome as Leon, but still not bad. I don't think anything will ever be as epic as Leon.

Zoe Saldana gives us her first impression as an action star. I think it's fair to say she needs a little practice. Her performance was a little wooden.

The movie is full of plot holes unfortunately; but it's a decent time pass.

6

Sunday, 11 September 2011

Bol

Ground-breaking pakistani film about womens rights in Pakistan directed by Shoaib Mansoor.

This film has gone places that no other pakistani film has been before.

The acting was superb and the way the story was told and narrated was very engaging.

Music was also very good and the villain, "Isaac" was the best of the lot.

Fantastic - 9

Friends With Benefits

I think the best and funny parts of this were the actual trailer that was showed.

It was very "in your face" and I am just not liking Justin Timberlake. I can't believe Mila Kunis did this role after Black Swan and The Book Of Eli.

It was not even funny; it was just sex all the time. It was aimed at the younger audience I think.

Got fed up of it after half an hour; there is no story line.

5.

Kill List

Disturbing british horror film here.

Some scenes are awfully strange, but the ending was the worst part of the movie.

It can be said that it followed a very similar theme to the movie, A Serbian Film, particularly the ending.

This did not really disturb me that much, because I think I am hardened horror movie fanatic! The bit when the guy smashes the victim's head with a hammer was quite gross!

Not bad for a british movie - 7

The Inbetweeners Movie

Hilarious capers here from the Inbetweeners boys which is a cult british sitcom about 4 strange boys who talk about their fantasies and "imagined" sexual capers!

It's very funny and I think it would appeal to the americans as they particularly like the british accent. It would not surprise me if they followed the sitcom on dvd!

The season is in its 4th season now; the film being set abroad. It is very good and I enjoyed it a lot!

A solid 8 from me!

Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes

Whoa! What a phenomenal movie!

I really enjoyed it!

The story goes right to the outset of how the Apes started to take over and rule the world.

The special effects are really quite amazing. The ape, Caesar who is the main ape character, plays a remarkable role. His facial expressions were outstanding.

This was one of the best movies i've seen this year.

A 9 from me!

Beautiful Lies

Was really looking forward to this french comedy. In the end I did not think it was that funny; it was more of a drama.

Audrey Tatou was really good. I really rate her as an actress and she is cute.

I have not seen the male actor in a movie before; but they worked well together.

I rate it a 7 only because I was expecting to laugh, but I didn't!

Super 8

Sorry I have not been updating the blog, but August was one manic month. New job, a holiday abroad. Got some time now that kids have gone back to school!

Back to the film. This was a very good effort, and I really liked the kid actors in it. Elle Fanning really stood out. These are the stars of the future.

I loved the late 70s early 80s theme. It reminded me of ET and with this being produced my Spielberg, it had a very similar feel to it.

When the alien actually came, like most films, I was disappointed with the result. I just have not found them scary enough and they are very cliche in description.

Some superb special effects though. I rate it a 7.

Sunday, 7 August 2011

Trust

A film by David Schwimmer about a girl being sexually abused and the effect this had on the family? I mean really? Even I thought why would David do such a film? He's a funny guy!

Anyhow, it was done quite well, the uncomfortable scenes were done appropriately and the impact of the crime on the family was portrayed in an incredibly genuine manner.

My only criticism is that of the ending - they could have at least caught the guy; instead they showed him still on the loose. Perhaps the film wanted to be brave and not be typical cliche.

7

Horrible Bosses

My first reaction; not as funny as Bridesmaids but funnier than Hangover 2.

I think everyone played a good role here, Jason Bateman however Seems to play the same role over and over again... But he is good at it!

Jennifer Aniston is very naughty; don't think I have seen her in such a role before!

It was still a good laugh though, enjoyed it!

7

The Lives Of Others

I had heard a lot about this german film from 5 years ago, so decided to give it a go. I must add german is not a language I get used to easily; I studied it at school but I never liked the sound of it.

I felt the film was all over the place; it did not flow for me. Also, it was too long and I think I expected too much from it. I did not find the story particularly interesting either.

6.5

Sunday, 31 July 2011

Zindagi Na Mille Dobara

Bollywood road trip movie which, I must say, was very well done.

Farhan Akhtar was amazing and the chemistry between the three boys was apparent. They gelled extremely well together.

One might say that we have seen movies like this before, but this was well structured and also gave an insight into the culture of Spain.

8

Saturday, 16 July 2011

The Tree Of Life

Strange, wierd and wacky.

In my honest opinion, I wish I stayed at home to watch the Discovery Channel or National Geographic.

The film DID make sense to me, but for the wider audience, it was a little too artistic and tried to be too fancy. I can see people complaining because the lack of flow.

Go watch this with an open mind

6.5

Biutiful

Such a "painfully beautiful" film... The acting is just superb and my opinion of Javier Bardem changed over night.

The camerawork is divine and makes such an impact to the whole film.

The story is very sad, and it is hard not to become emotional whilst watching.

One of my best movies of the year thus far.

9.5

Transformers : Dark Of The Moon

I was hoping Michael Bay would turn this franchise around after the disappointing sequel. The start of the movie is certainly promising, with a solid story, but it quickly takes a turn after an hour or so.

Simply put, the film is just TOO long. The last fight scene goes on for a whole HOUR! Its all just noise and metal clanging - nothing else.

It was a little better than the Pirates 4 sequel.

I rate it a 5

Tuesday, 5 July 2011

Bridesmaids

A really really good effort here by Kristen Viig and her team (she produced it as well as being the main character) for pulling off one the funniest movies of the year so far!

The relationships between the other characters was very good and they gelled well with each other. One could honestly not tell that they were actors, it all looked so real!

If there is going to be a chick flick for men, then this is it!

Well deserved score of 9!

Sunday, 26 June 2011

Anything For Her

This is the original french film that came before hollywood copied it for The Next 3 Days.

Its a shame I did not watch this before that as the acting by the leads was truly awesome!

It was more fast paced and the latter made movie was much more dragged out.

Will give this a score of 8...perhaps a 9 had I not have seen the story before!

Tuesday, 21 June 2011

Source Code

A movie I was so desperate to see, but unfortunately I missed it in April.

It was really really good! A little complicated, but easier to follow than Inception. In fact I even thought it was the better film also.

Jake Gylenhall is outstanding; his acting prowess really has improved greatly.

The ending is sublime, and I admit some parts were a little emotional.

8

Bad Teacher

Cameron Diaz really sizzles in this comedy role. It suits her pretty well and she is very infectious.

What is disappointing in my opinion is the lack of support from co-stars who aren't able to gel with her.

The plot is simple, the gags could have been funnier. They could have had someone better than Justin Timberlake.

Not a bad movie; shame the best bits were in the trailers!

6

Sunday, 19 June 2011

August Undergrounds Mordum

A truly disgraceful snuff movie about a group of people who go on a killing rampage.

The purpose of it is to shock the audience and that it does do. There are lots of disturbing moments which are just too controversial to mention in this blog.

It all is a bit too much to handle.

Watch at your peril. Rated 8 for disgustung factor!

Murder Set Pieces

A film that was banned in the UK. Had to see what the fuss was all about.

Acting was dire. Lots of gore, but it failed to disturb me. It just didn't look very real.

There was one really truly disgusting part in it.... The horrific murder of a child. That certainly left its mark on me.

Avoid at all costs, even if you are a horror fan!

3

Point Blank

Action packed french thriller here. Beautifully paced and very effective.

Excellent acting performances by all. Not seen the main leads in a film before. This is showing at a cinema near you so go down and watch this good piece of cinema.

All the time you are on the edge of your seat - 8!

Mothers Day

Rebecca De Mornay returns as a psycho yet again in this thriller/horror which is surprinsingly solid.

I went into the theatre expecting dire acting performances, but they were pretty good.

Yes there were a few flaws and I say this over and over again...which movie does not have any goofs in it?

Its a good thriller which in my opinion should have been given a better marketing.

Score of 7 from me!

Sunday, 12 June 2011

Cannibal Holocaust

Dating back to 1980, this has been named one of the most controversial movies ever made.

It was a very interesting build-up and with it being filmed on a handheld, it gave it a very real portrayal.

Some shocking stuff in here; it all goes downhill after the turtle slaughter.

9 for the shock factor.... Chilling stuff!

Rango

A movie I missed when I was on my long trip abroad. Watched this today on our lazy sunday afternoon.

The animation was really superb and the story was good too. Sme of the references were tongue in cheek and jokes were quite adult! Not really sure whether or not the makers had kids in mind.

My eldest got a little bored of it to be honest, but I really liked it. I think its suited to kids over the age of 10. Small children will not understand as the dialogue is quite complex.

Rating: 7

Little Fockers

Following on from Meet The Parents and Meet The Fockers, this is the 3rd movie.

Robert De Niro is very good as always as the suspicious father in law. Unfortunately there were less gags in this and they didn't really make me burst out in laughter.

Nevertheless it was still a decent watch. Jessica Alba plays a good over the top cameo.

Going to rate this a 6

Aftermath

Shocking 30 minute spanish film here without any dialogue. About a person who works at a morgue. The main theme being Necrophilia with gore. One can figure out what happens!

It's extremely sick and quite different from what i've seen before. As I said in a previous post, will be seeing some movies like these! It all sparked off due to the controversy surrounding the sequel to The Human Centipede.

I am going to give this a score of 9 on the disturbing scale!

X Men : First Class

This is an excellent prequel to the movies that have gone before. It mainly charts the life of Charles Xavier and how he became Professor X. James McAvoy plays the role extremely well as the young professor.

It's quite cool how the X Men all came about and it was quite interesting. The kids played excellent roles too.

Special effects were also very good andwe are just waiting for the makers to develop another prequel!

A well deserved rating of 8.5

Salo (120 days of Sodom)

I've recently started to become more and more interested in extreme cinema and this is apparently one of the disturbing movies that cropped up time and again during some research.

Its very disturbing, wierd and strange and not really recommended for anyone with a faint heart.

Watch out for some reviews coming up of films along these theme!

As far as shocks go, this is quite twisted, but I have seen worse!

7.5 (on this disturbing scale)

Tuesday, 31 May 2011

The Hangover 2

Went to see this with my good friend Sunil who I had not seen in a long time. Was good to catch up bro!

It was more funny capers. Only downside in my opnion was that we knew what to expect. It basically followed the very successful format of the last movie!

It seems likely that as there is only one character left who is unmarried, this will be made into a trilogy!

I thought the first one was hilarious, Zach Galifianakis was at his best, but I felt a little let down by the rest of the cast.

6.5

Burning Bright

Low budget tense B movie here about a Tiger on the loose chasing down a family.

Its not exactly 'Snakes on a plane' but it certainly is a gripping movie.

IMDB scores were just under 6 which was harsh, I would rate it a 7 in my opinion.

It was a pretty good movie. Yes, there were unbelievable scenes but which film doesn't?

Monday, 23 May 2011

Pirates Of The Carribean 4

I only went to watch this as I had nothing else better to do and I wanted to get out the house.

Boy, I was very disappointed! It was very painful to watch a movie with so much money being spent on it. The whole franchise has been drawn out and we are actually going to be subjected to yet another sequel!

No points for anyone in his film except Geoffrey Rush who I found most entertaining.

A very poor score of 3

Hanna

Super little film here. Was great to See Eric Bana back in a role after such a long time. The newcomer was also very good. I last saw her in The Way Back. Her name escapes me at present.

Cate Blanchett is back in a different over-the-top role which was played to perfection.

This is an explosive action film with a difference.

A very good 8.5

No Strings Attached

Another movie that I missed while I was away.

Unfortunately this was quite a poor effort. The film had a lot of potential with some big stars like Natalie Portman ans Ashton Kutcher. It felt very similar to the latest Love and other Drugs which I preferred to be honest!

One to avoid in my opinion.

5

Thor

Yes I'm back... After 7 weeks of inactivity, finally seen some movies.

I had seen a trailer of Thor in march and it did look very good. New characters and Miss Portman of course kept my interest going. Action sequences were good, and the story was not bad either.

Definately expect a sequel of this. Anthony Hopkins playing a cameo to solidify matters.

Solid 8 score!

Tuesday, 29 March 2011

Limitless

A brave move by producers by throwing Bradley Cooper in the deep end with his first release in a major role.

A good move in my opinion - this really has pulled the crowds in. On a quiet tuesday night, the screen was almost packed - good sign!

Good action, tension - yes there are loopholes - there always are! But still very entertaining and the way it ends - quite possibly a sequel on the cards? Who knows...

Did enjoy this - but now a long break from it all as I won't be watching a movie until the month of May - so be sure to tune back then!

Oh, a respectable 8 for this good effort by Mr Cooper :D

The Lincoln Lawyer

Coolness defined = Mr Matthew McConaughey. I mean the guy is just so smooth! Played an excellent role here. Its a movie I really enjoyed. It was funny, was action-packed and I like the court/legal side of it too - it was very appealing. Marisa Tomei supporting was awesome too - she has never had the credit she deserves.

Might be the break into more serious roles for him. I hope so because he is a talented actor.

Good solid all round entertainment.

8 from me for this great effort!

Unknown

Another Liam Neeson cat and mouse film here. Don't know why, but seems as though all the films he does are all the same - look at Taken.

Far-fetched, but no doubt still quite a thrill ride. There are typical hollywood cliche moments and some very ditzy ones too.

My only complaint was this was far too long, would have been a lot better had it have only been an hour and a half or so.

Not bad - 7

Saturday, 12 March 2011

The Adjustment Bureau

A new film starring Matt Damon and Emily Blunt which is a romcom with a bit of science-fiction blended in.

The concept is far-fetched, but works well. I think Americans love the british accent so much, it will probably do really well at the boxoffice just because of it!

Their chemistry works well, but towards the ending, I was starting to think what the whole point of it really was.

It is just a romcom with a twist at the end of the day!

A score of 7 for Mr Damon. I think the movie would seriously lack had he not have been in it!

Inside

French thriller from 4 years ago. Was in the mood of watching a gory horror film so picked up this tout movie which came as a recommendation.

Was only 80 minutes long but boy did it have me gagging. It was immensly gory, suffocating and claustrophobic.

It is not until the end when the plot unravels and is a very simple movie but made with a lot of conviction and courage.

It's a sad ending and does leave a ver bad taste in the mouth.

Not for the light hearted! 8.5!

Tron Legacy

Visually stunning sequel to the disney film of the Eighties, Tron.

Saw it in 2D as opposed to the 3D it was filmed in.

Found it very interesting; action scenes were good and so was the CGI and special effects. Not seen the young lad in a movie before, although I am told he made his debut in "Troy" many years ago.

Younger audiences may find it harder to understand the science fiction behind the story.

A good score of 7

West Is West

More funny capers from George Khan and his family. However some people disliked the sequel because it was not as funny. I quite liked it actually because of the more serious tone. Yes, there were some hilarious bits, but it was not overwhelming.

It was filmed in Pakistan which gave a different setting to the usual "Salford" and it worked very well; a bit of culture never did anyone any harm...

Did enjoy it, but I think that was the end and we won't be seeing them again!

Solid 8 from me

Wednesday, 2 March 2011

Morning Glory

Cute drama starring my favourite Harrison Ford and the lovely Rachel McAdams.

Some very hilarious moments in this. The chemistry between the two is really good and it worked a treat. The main focus of the story is them and the pace is comfortable.

Rachel's character is so loveable! Makes you just want to go give her a hug and hold her hand :-)

I really did like this, a score of 9 from me.

Cinema trip tomorrow, West is West... Need I say anymore???

Animal Kingdom

Tough and gritty Australian crime drama which feels very raw and real-life.

It is slow to start, but does slowly draw you in. Might I add; it won't be everybody's cup of tea.

The finale is shocking and will startle you!

Some great worthy acting performances from relative unknowns.

Solid 7.5

To all my visitors...

No, this is not the name of a film, but an address to everyone who is kind enough to visit my blog.

It would be really nice of you to take a few moments to at least leave some comments to the posts; that way we can have a little interaction which would be great for the site!

Also, you fellow bloggers, if you like it, then why not join? Add me and click "follow blog" - will be a pleasure to have you board this cinematic journey :)

Once again, thank you for reading :)

Sunday, 27 February 2011

Tangled

Highly entertaining Rapunzel rendition which I saw with my daughter.

Disney is churning out some good stuff as of late. This was another great singing and dancing affair which even my son enjoyed!

Very colourful and the theme of good v evil remains.

Voiceovers were excellent as was the animation. We saw it in 2D as 3D glasses are very fidgety!

Solid 8 from my daughter!

Saturday, 26 February 2011

The Resident

Psychological thriller starring Hilary Swank who I rate ever since I saw her in Million Dollar Baby. This was a very tense and tout thriller.

I was gripped to my seat for the first half an hour, but after this, unfortunately I could see where the film was going - highly predictable.

Has some good scares, and some of the content is sickening.

Just hope to see Hilary with a better script next time!

6

Just Get With It

Quirky comedy here with 2 very loveable people - Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston.

I really enjoyed the film, it was very cute. I especially loved the kids in it too - they were the real stars in my opinion.

This was Adam Sandler back in good form after some very dodgy roles in the past few films he has been in.

Swimsuit Model Brooklyn Decker also plays quite a significant role here and came across quite real.

Some good laughs with a crazy cameo by Nicole Kidman too!

Score = 8

Monday, 21 February 2011

True Grit

Now this really was a really good movie. Jeff Bridges and the young girl were really good in it.

It wasn't really a typical western with cowboys and indians.

It was a remake of an old movie which I have not seen. For me, Haillee Steinfield was the star of the show. Really great, confident role she played here. Upcomng star, watchout!

If you can get past the deep south and the accent, you will love this movie.

Another solid score of 7.5

Hereafter

Another super film by heavyweight director, Clint Eastwood.

There are three intertwined stories which meet together right at the end. It is an interesting take on things, with the stories filmed in 3 different parts of the world. Gives the film an international edge with a third of it in french (with english subtitles).

It was quite emotional in parts too, and the british boy played a good role. Something different for Matt Damon also; role suited him.

Cannot understand why the critics panned it... I really enjoyed it.

Solid 8 from me!

La Haine

Shot beautifully in black and white, this movie dates back to 1995 - Vincent Cassell looks very young! It is in France and in French.

It is basically about hating the Police! The character development is portrayed very well here. All the different friends are different in someway or the other.

The film is given meaning by being filmed in monochrome. If it was in colour it would lack the desired effect.

Another solid movie; 8.5

The Mechanic

Explosive Jason Statham in yet another action packed movie which is based on the old Charles Bronson classic.

The action is engaging, storyline is interesting and plot is quite clever.

I don't know anyone who doesn't like Jason Statham!

Solid 7.5 from me.

Monday, 31 January 2011

Dhobi Ghat

Debut film of Kiran Rao (Mrs Aamir Khan) which evolves around the lives of 4 people.

People expecing this to be Bollywood will be sorely disappointed as it is meant to be more of an "artsy" film.

The main star of the show for me was not Aamir Khan, but Prateik Babbar - son of the legendary Raj Babbar and Smita Patel. He played a "slumdog-millionaire" type character and was the main focus of the film in my opinion. Aamir Khan hardly spoke, but his presence on screen was needed.

Beautifully portrayed; the ending is particularly touching. Good effort here.

Solid 7.5

The Last Exorcism

Decided to watch this as it was a short film.

It was done quite cleverly; filmed with a basic camera and told in a documentary style of way.

Basically, it was a research video to show how these people go round doing exorcism, and use various tricks to con people thinking what they are doing is real. That part was quite interesting.

The ending is a little disappointing. Not really "horror" as such, more of an insight!

6

Sunday, 30 January 2011

Fair Game

Invited to an advanced screening of this movie based on true events.

Tout political thriller based on the CIA agent, whose identity was exposed by the US government, around the time when the Coalition commenced war against Iraq for possessing weapons of mass destruction.

Sean Penn and Naomi Watts pulled of their roles admirably.

Solid 7.

Dogtooth

One of the strangest movies I've seen, EVER.

Only reason I decided to watch was because of it being nominated for best foreign film at Oscars 2011.

It was so bizaare, and be prepared for some shocking moments. The family in it are totally deranged - its unbelievable.

It was too quirky i'm afraid, a score of 6 for trying!

Wednesday, 26 January 2011

Love and other Drugs

Okay, okay I admit I watched this purely for Anne Hathaway. I thought I really adored her, but I was so disappointed after watching this.

Three-quarters of the film is spent with her and Jake Gyllenhall in bed. It became quite unbearable and it was a predictable ending. It tried to be funny in parts, but it was quite silly. I was expecting this to be a lot better so was quite disappointed.

If it wasn't for the fat guy who played Jake's brother, this would have been a turkey.

Just a 5!

I Spit On Your Grave

Wow! Gruesome or what? This has been based on the 1978 remake which I have not watched yet; but I will watch it after seeing this.

Yes, I admit there were flaws, but The scenes were genuinely disturbing, and shocking.

Story was gripping, although it was a little slow to start. I don't recall seeing Sarah Butler in anything previous to this. She was quite good; you do sympathise with what horrors she went through.

Definately one for the SAW fans out there!

7.5!

Blue Valentine

I was not going to watch this movie, but ended up doing so due to the immense media hype.

What can I say? Nothing really new; it was just an average drama with good, solid acting performances. Ryan Gosling far superior in my opinion.

Film was cleverly shot with flashbacks which was the most intersting part. I kept waiting for something big to happen, for my heart to melt, but there were not that many occasions.

Not a bad film. I give it a solid 7.

Saturday, 22 January 2011

The Machinist

Another movie I dug out from my archive. This is from 2004 which I did not get round to watching.

If after 10 minutes the movie does not grip you, then you might struggle watching it.

Very twisted storyline, great role played by Christian Bale and filmed in a very "Hitchcock" style gives this movie a powerful edge over many other similar stories. Imagery is visually stunning.

A solid 8.

Will return to something softer tonight; I plan to watch the much talked about "Blue Valentine". Look out for my findings about it soon!

The Next 3 Days

Russell Crowe; you either like him or loathe him!

I thought he was very good in this. Yes, I admit their were flaws, but it is good, gripping entertainment.

Elizabeth Banks who is known for her comedy roles, plays a solid, gritty part in this movie as well.

It's a roller coaster ride which will have you on the edge of your seat throughout the movie which is just over 2 hours long.

A solid score of 7.5; definitely worth a watch!

Never Let Me Go

Once again, I was lucky to see this at an advanced screening.

It was very bleak, extremely depressing and dull unfortunately.

I found it very weird, but I did like Carrey Mulligan in it. I thought she acted very well.

Cinematography was cold, might I add; this movie is not for everyone.

Just a 6 from me for this.

Sunday, 16 January 2011

Requiem For A Dream

10 years on, and I still had not seen this movie. Oh my God, where have I been?!

Decided to watch this as I was interested in seeing Darren Aronofsky's other work after seeing Black Swan.

It's one heavyweight movie, with a lot of fine imagery and acting performances.

It basically charts the sad lives of 4 drug addicts and how their addiction slowly takes over.

It is very sad and upsetting, and not a movie for the faint-hearted.

On a roll here, there are plenty of movies I've digged out that I am hoping to see (on my new iPad) which is a treat.

Another solid 8.

The Fighter

Was fortunate to see this film at an early screening.

It charts the trials and tribulations of WBC Welterweight fighter, Micky Ward with Mark Wahlberg playing the lead role.

In my opinion though, this film belongs to Christian Bale who is the junkie brother who plays the role of his life here!

Not just a boxing film, but an excellent family drama as well.

Keep a look out for this impressive film.

Solid score of 8 from me!

The King's Speech

Well, what can I say?

A most dull topic, has been made superbly interesting by some blistering english performances. Colin Firth was good, Helen Bonham Carter was sublime and Geoffrey Rush was outstanding!

I imagine the Americans will love this film as they love our accents so much.

A very strong award contender. I really liked this film very much!

Another strong score of 9!

Wednesday, 12 January 2011

Conviction

This movie is based on a true story of a person that was wrongly convicted of murder and it is about the struggle his sister went through to set him free.

Sam Rockwell acted his heart out is certainly the star of the show. He should most definitely be nominated for an Oscar. Hilary Swank was great too as usual!

It was a simple movie with a simple story, yet so effective. I really enjoyed it. It has a great ending too.

Another 9!

127 Hours

Such a well made film here.

Flashbacks were effective, cinematography was awesome and it was one of the greatest feel good movies I've seen.

Danny Boyle should be very proud of this; he surely has pulled off another great movie.

Certainly a strong Oscar contender.

A score of 9 from me!

Saturday, 1 January 2011

Irreversible

This film was extremely controversial and I still had not seen it to date (came out in 2002).

There are two extremely violent scenes; one is a murder and the other is rape.

The sequences are played out starting with the ending and finishing with the beginning.

A remarkable piece of directing; its a shame the contents are so horrific.

8

Sheitaan

New Year night, and I fancied a horror film, so what do I do, I pick this strange french film out, starring Vincent Cassel.

It was extremely weird - some quirky moments which do make you jump in a few places.

Nothing really happens until 3/4's of the way through.

6.5!

p.s. there's another Vincent Cassel movie coming up; thats 3 in a row!