LA PREMIERE
28/04/17
THE KING OF TV: GRAHAM KENNEDY NEW
website
RATE: 9/10
review by Jeanette Russell
Thank you very much for the wonderful opportunity to review this film.There was also a great Q & A at the end of the movie with a treat in store of T.V. personalities who worked in the industry, with Graham Kennedy as well as being close personal associates and friends.
Graham was known as the King. He was raised in Balaclava and was on TV for 35 yrs in total. The film included advertisements from his earlier days as well as skits. Some highlights were newly restored ads and clips that had rarely been seen. During the film the viewers got to see footage from in Melbourne tonight which included segments with Bert Newton, and The Wilsons, comedy gold back in the day, involving an elderly couple. Shown is the raw talent of Graham, so often ad libbing, which made for slap stick comedy, and great humour.
More laughs came with excerpts from game show Blankety Blanks, as well as his hosting of Graham Kennedy's Funniest Home Videos.
The end of the doco, movie included some interviews with Kennedy, as well as some of the comedy material where he made others laugh, proving to be funnier still. He frequently had Ken Sutcliffe in tears from laughing so much when he hosted with Graham.
Media personalities Patti Newton, Pete Smith Phillip Brady and Mike McColl Jones came up onto the stage after the film to do the Q & A session. They each recounted their experiences with Graham working and personally. The segment was really insightful, amusing and absorbing. Their recounts seemed to be heartfelt and genuine.
Interesting film and Q & A. I found the time to be captivating and fascinating. I would like to score the session 4 and a half out of 5.
website
RATE: 9/10
review by Jeanette Russell
Thank you very much for the wonderful opportunity to review this film.There was also a great Q & A at the end of the movie with a treat in store of T.V. personalities who worked in the industry, with Graham Kennedy as well as being close personal associates and friends.
Graham was known as the King. He was raised in Balaclava and was on TV for 35 yrs in total. The film included advertisements from his earlier days as well as skits. Some highlights were newly restored ads and clips that had rarely been seen. During the film the viewers got to see footage from in Melbourne tonight which included segments with Bert Newton, and The Wilsons, comedy gold back in the day, involving an elderly couple. Shown is the raw talent of Graham, so often ad libbing, which made for slap stick comedy, and great humour.
More laughs came with excerpts from game show Blankety Blanks, as well as his hosting of Graham Kennedy's Funniest Home Videos.
The end of the doco, movie included some interviews with Kennedy, as well as some of the comedy material where he made others laugh, proving to be funnier still. He frequently had Ken Sutcliffe in tears from laughing so much when he hosted with Graham.
Media personalities Patti Newton, Pete Smith Phillip Brady and Mike McColl Jones came up onto the stage after the film to do the Q & A session. They each recounted their experiences with Graham working and personally. The segment was really insightful, amusing and absorbing. Their recounts seemed to be heartfelt and genuine.
Interesting film and Q & A. I found the time to be captivating and fascinating. I would like to score the session 4 and a half out of 5.
BAYWATCH NEW
website
review by Emmylou MacCarthy
Zac Efron , Dwayne Johnson and loads of swearing, beach babes... what's not to love about the new Baywatch Movie ?! With a fantastic comedic take on the 90's classic Baywatch, this modern version movie has some fantastic one liners, a pumping soundtrack and some pretty funny scenarios that will either make you cringe or laugh out loud !
website
review by Emmylou MacCarthy
Zac Efron , Dwayne Johnson and loads of swearing, beach babes... what's not to love about the new Baywatch Movie ?! With a fantastic comedic take on the 90's classic Baywatch, this modern version movie has some fantastic one liners, a pumping soundtrack and some pretty funny scenarios that will either make you cringe or laugh out loud !
GRADUATION NEW
website
RATE: 7/10
This is the strangest film I saw recently. But here we go... my review...
It is not an easy task to be a good parent. We all try our best... .and we fail and raise again from ashes. You will never own your life with the first breath taken by your child... All your thoughts, all your actions will be around your dear brightest sun or suns. It is a joy and a burden. I observed the father looking after his daughter and I thought how familiar all he was going through tastes. He tries his best and it is never enough.
To be honest I could not understand at the beginning where the action takes place: Serbia? Bulgaria? OK, Romania. There are so many beautiful people living there. The faces are amazing: they are simple and complex at the same time. The acting is so natural it is similar to watching a good quality reality show with the only difference - it feels like the actors in this film do not even realise that the camera is following them. It is like they play themselves in the ordinary uneasy suburban life: poor, criminal, corrupt and nothing more than boring.
I suddenly remembered my childhood in the similar block on flats: thinking looking out of the window - if I have to face this same grey view with drunken people out of my window again I's better kill myself. No wonder the parents are trying to get the girls the best graduation exam marks in order to get her out of the country to study in Cambridge. What a life we all had trying to get out of that ditch with no tomorrow!
Romeo is a physician living in Transylvania's town with his daughter and wife. His daughter is out of his control his wife... is not that you call a wife, the man has got a lover and the situation is more compound than one can imagine, he has a sick mother, he is surrounded by people that do not make his life easier but on the contrary: they all participate in the madness of Romeo's reality. Romoe's plan is sure to work: he plans to send his daughter Eliza to study in England. But man proposes, God disposes... Will his plan work? Will his plan destroy his relationship with his daughter forever or will it bond them up? I guess you should see for yourself...
website
RATE: 7/10
This is the strangest film I saw recently. But here we go... my review...
It is not an easy task to be a good parent. We all try our best... .and we fail and raise again from ashes. You will never own your life with the first breath taken by your child... All your thoughts, all your actions will be around your dear brightest sun or suns. It is a joy and a burden. I observed the father looking after his daughter and I thought how familiar all he was going through tastes. He tries his best and it is never enough.
To be honest I could not understand at the beginning where the action takes place: Serbia? Bulgaria? OK, Romania. There are so many beautiful people living there. The faces are amazing: they are simple and complex at the same time. The acting is so natural it is similar to watching a good quality reality show with the only difference - it feels like the actors in this film do not even realise that the camera is following them. It is like they play themselves in the ordinary uneasy suburban life: poor, criminal, corrupt and nothing more than boring.
I suddenly remembered my childhood in the similar block on flats: thinking looking out of the window - if I have to face this same grey view with drunken people out of my window again I's better kill myself. No wonder the parents are trying to get the girls the best graduation exam marks in order to get her out of the country to study in Cambridge. What a life we all had trying to get out of that ditch with no tomorrow!
Romeo is a physician living in Transylvania's town with his daughter and wife. His daughter is out of his control his wife... is not that you call a wife, the man has got a lover and the situation is more compound than one can imagine, he has a sick mother, he is surrounded by people that do not make his life easier but on the contrary: they all participate in the madness of Romeo's reality. Romoe's plan is sure to work: he plans to send his daughter Eliza to study in England. But man proposes, God disposes... Will his plan work? Will his plan destroy his relationship with his daughter forever or will it bond them up? I guess you should see for yourself...
WHITNEY: CAN I BE ME NEW
website
RATE: 8/10
It is the best voice I have ever heard in my life. It is the saddest story as well.
The film portrays the life journey of one of the most famous and most recognised on stage voices: Whitney Houston. It is a documentary with the rare and never shown before footage of personal life, stage moments, documents, BTS episodes, rehearsals , interviews from lovers and friends, family and media and much much more. It is sad to see the talent exposed to alcohol, drugs, pills, smoking and god knows what else. It is hard but I guess this is the toll of success. The money the celebrity earn should travel to the other sources too so the vicious circle should be complete. the latter is of course a very sad joke but it is partially true. It is very hard to be of that level of fame without trying something funny, then funny turns into a routine routine turns into habit and while the habit becomes an addiction your physical body goes in the state of a disaster that you can not control anymore. Lucky those stars who avoided it and still are on the top shelves of our musical records. They managed to hold themselves from hell. The weaker though got into the hole of the netherworld,
There is only one aspect missing from this new documentary: not many lush Whitney songs.
website
RATE: 8/10
It is the best voice I have ever heard in my life. It is the saddest story as well.
The film portrays the life journey of one of the most famous and most recognised on stage voices: Whitney Houston. It is a documentary with the rare and never shown before footage of personal life, stage moments, documents, BTS episodes, rehearsals , interviews from lovers and friends, family and media and much much more. It is sad to see the talent exposed to alcohol, drugs, pills, smoking and god knows what else. It is hard but I guess this is the toll of success. The money the celebrity earn should travel to the other sources too so the vicious circle should be complete. the latter is of course a very sad joke but it is partially true. It is very hard to be of that level of fame without trying something funny, then funny turns into a routine routine turns into habit and while the habit becomes an addiction your physical body goes in the state of a disaster that you can not control anymore. Lucky those stars who avoided it and still are on the top shelves of our musical records. They managed to hold themselves from hell. The weaker though got into the hole of the netherworld,
There is only one aspect missing from this new documentary: not many lush Whitney songs.
CHURCHILL NEW
website
RATE: 6.5/10
I was really looking forward to this film and the more I was the deeper my disappointment was.
There is the main idea of my frustration: you can not make the political leader look sweet. But making his super honey sweet is the biggest mistake. No matter how they tried and they tried hard - Churchill looks very sweet in this film,.
This is not what the audience expects. It is hard to judge how close to the real portrait Churchill was drawn (we did not know him personally): we are shown just a small episode from Winston's life full of his desperation, his weaknesses, his fears, his disbelieves, his exhaustion of being Churchill and personal relationship (which you could hardly even call relationship), his human nature, his ability to get out of the difficult situation, his guilt, his diplomacy and so on but IMHO the picture was weaker than I expected.
Was I looking for a patriotic leader that follows his agenda of a great winner, a super hero of the WWII and a super mind. I really did not know what to expect but was hardly trusting the movie page after its page - and till the very end. I also suspect they overdid with the smoking part and W.C. 's famous cigars without which his iconic figure would not be complete.
Back to the feelings part... In Churchill''s fear one could see not the fright of the men that would be slaughtered in the next hours in vain but rather the panic of what if they loose and not win. The victory is counted always in its gloriest moments by the number of soldiers fallen down in the fields. If it was not for the victory the numbers of those killed would act against the decisions originally made. The more are killed the harder was the victory, the higher appraisal the generals would get, the more tears of joy the common people would spare... The numbers work for and against. The numbers can be played with. The looser can not afford to loose his people. The bloodless losers are some of wars' most humiliating history moments.
There is one more thought that has struck my mind: our men go to war not because they believe in its true value but because everyone else in the local village goes. It would be so disgraceful if you would be the only one not in the battle filed, the one left behind (with elder, women and kids). The feelings are played with. The feelings are strong. The guilt is unavoidable.
The wars of brothers against brothers in the past and now can not be rectified: they are only about the power,and let's face the truth - no one cares about the people who die. The cannon's meat, the soldiers, the people are only the material for those in power to build even more power and for them to get even better slice of cake. If you are ever in power I beg you - you sohuld not start the war.... If us, common people go to war we will be killed, if we do not go to war we better kill ourselves. There is no the third alternative. We should only pray that the world does not create another Hitler or Mussolini to lead those innocent and young to their deaths.
You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life.
W. Churchill.
website
RATE: 6.5/10
I was really looking forward to this film and the more I was the deeper my disappointment was.
There is the main idea of my frustration: you can not make the political leader look sweet. But making his super honey sweet is the biggest mistake. No matter how they tried and they tried hard - Churchill looks very sweet in this film,.
This is not what the audience expects. It is hard to judge how close to the real portrait Churchill was drawn (we did not know him personally): we are shown just a small episode from Winston's life full of his desperation, his weaknesses, his fears, his disbelieves, his exhaustion of being Churchill and personal relationship (which you could hardly even call relationship), his human nature, his ability to get out of the difficult situation, his guilt, his diplomacy and so on but IMHO the picture was weaker than I expected.
Was I looking for a patriotic leader that follows his agenda of a great winner, a super hero of the WWII and a super mind. I really did not know what to expect but was hardly trusting the movie page after its page - and till the very end. I also suspect they overdid with the smoking part and W.C. 's famous cigars without which his iconic figure would not be complete.
Back to the feelings part... In Churchill''s fear one could see not the fright of the men that would be slaughtered in the next hours in vain but rather the panic of what if they loose and not win. The victory is counted always in its gloriest moments by the number of soldiers fallen down in the fields. If it was not for the victory the numbers of those killed would act against the decisions originally made. The more are killed the harder was the victory, the higher appraisal the generals would get, the more tears of joy the common people would spare... The numbers work for and against. The numbers can be played with. The looser can not afford to loose his people. The bloodless losers are some of wars' most humiliating history moments.
There is one more thought that has struck my mind: our men go to war not because they believe in its true value but because everyone else in the local village goes. It would be so disgraceful if you would be the only one not in the battle filed, the one left behind (with elder, women and kids). The feelings are played with. The feelings are strong. The guilt is unavoidable.
The wars of brothers against brothers in the past and now can not be rectified: they are only about the power,and let's face the truth - no one cares about the people who die. The cannon's meat, the soldiers, the people are only the material for those in power to build even more power and for them to get even better slice of cake. If you are ever in power I beg you - you sohuld not start the war.... If us, common people go to war we will be killed, if we do not go to war we better kill ourselves. There is no the third alternative. We should only pray that the world does not create another Hitler or Mussolini to lead those innocent and young to their deaths.
You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life.
W. Churchill.
ST KILDA FILM FESTIVAL: THE ELEVEN O'CLOCK NEW
website
review by Irina Ivanova
The St Kilda Film Festival – The Eleven O’clock
The Eleven O’Clock is a hilarious take on the doctor-patient relationship, aiming to confuse the viewers about who’s treating whom. One sincerely believes he’s a psychiatrist, comfortably occupying the cabinet and chatting to his secretary. When a patient comes in mumbling something indistinctly, the doctor takes charge and begins his practice. Surprisingly the patient strongly feels that he is the real psychiatrist, this is his cabinet and the patient is actually in front of him. So they each attempt to treat each other, until it all turns into a big blow of fury. With the help of the security guard the situation gets resolved, though can we be sure the right person is taken away? Maybe the next appointment will show…
The screenplay is full of light, engaging humour, keeping the audience intrigued for the revelation of this mystery. Both Josh Lawson and Damon Herriman are very convincing in their roles of Dr Phillips and Dr Klein.
Altogether the film is a beautifully done work by Derin Seale as a director and Josh Lawson as a screenwriter. The interior and costumes give away a romantic retro touch, which makes this comedy even cuter.
website
review by Irina Ivanova
The St Kilda Film Festival – The Eleven O’clock
The Eleven O’Clock is a hilarious take on the doctor-patient relationship, aiming to confuse the viewers about who’s treating whom. One sincerely believes he’s a psychiatrist, comfortably occupying the cabinet and chatting to his secretary. When a patient comes in mumbling something indistinctly, the doctor takes charge and begins his practice. Surprisingly the patient strongly feels that he is the real psychiatrist, this is his cabinet and the patient is actually in front of him. So they each attempt to treat each other, until it all turns into a big blow of fury. With the help of the security guard the situation gets resolved, though can we be sure the right person is taken away? Maybe the next appointment will show…
The screenplay is full of light, engaging humour, keeping the audience intrigued for the revelation of this mystery. Both Josh Lawson and Damon Herriman are very convincing in their roles of Dr Phillips and Dr Klein.
Altogether the film is a beautifully done work by Derin Seale as a director and Josh Lawson as a screenwriter. The interior and costumes give away a romantic retro touch, which makes this comedy even cuter.
MOM AND ME NEW
website
RATE: 8/10
review by Jeanette Russell
Thank you for the opportunity to review this heartwarming documentary. The film is about mother's and sons their relationships, challenges and stories.
As the state of Oklahoma USA has been named as the manliest state in the US Ken Wardrop who wrote and directed the film decides to explore this idea. Further too reaching to explore how mother figures impact on their son's manhood. He invites radio host Joe Cristiano to discuss, on the radio, with sons about their mother's . This makes for some very interesting stories as sons relate the experiences with their mother's, and tell about motherly love as they interpret it.
Calls are from men of diverse backgrounds, which makes for most interesting viewing. This film could make men think about their relationship with their own mother's as the account is very touching.
These are honest accounts human to human giving the viewer insight into the complications, emotions, and distress, at times felt in close relationship.
Great doco absorbing, thought provoking, and deep. I would like to score the film 4 out of 5.
website
RATE: 8/10
review by Jeanette Russell
Thank you for the opportunity to review this heartwarming documentary. The film is about mother's and sons their relationships, challenges and stories.
As the state of Oklahoma USA has been named as the manliest state in the US Ken Wardrop who wrote and directed the film decides to explore this idea. Further too reaching to explore how mother figures impact on their son's manhood. He invites radio host Joe Cristiano to discuss, on the radio, with sons about their mother's . This makes for some very interesting stories as sons relate the experiences with their mother's, and tell about motherly love as they interpret it.
Calls are from men of diverse backgrounds, which makes for most interesting viewing. This film could make men think about their relationship with their own mother's as the account is very touching.
These are honest accounts human to human giving the viewer insight into the complications, emotions, and distress, at times felt in close relationship.
Great doco absorbing, thought provoking, and deep. I would like to score the film 4 out of 5.
A QUIET PASSION NEW
website
RATE: 6/10
This is the movie that I call: Began with a wedding march, ended up with a funeral dirge!"
So smart, sharp and passionate start with such a dark and most boring ending... but I guess the character development has achieved its aim: the growth from a young, happy and life loving woman who turned into a grumpy, unkind human being was painted with the best brushes possible no matter if liked it or not.
The best part is the poetry reading but hardly I could understand the meanings (the are a bit smarter than I am ) so I started reading and re-reading just now...
This is an excellent poem about Truth, Honesty and Lies... sometimes we do not know what is better...
“TELL ALL THE TRUTH BUT TELL IT SLANT...”...
Tell all the Truth but tell it slant--
Success in Circuit lies
Too bright for our infirm Delight
The Truth's superb surprise
As Lightning to the Children eased
With explanation kind
The Truth must dazzle gradually
Or every man be blind--
The dialogues in the movie is very strong, the words are heavy sometimes but the unpredictability of the course of the conversation is amazing!
“THERE IS NO FRIGATE LIKE A BOOK...”
There is no Frigate like a Book
To take us Lands away
Nor any Coursers like a Page
Of prancing Poetry--
This Travel may the poorest take
Without offence of Toll --
How frugal is the Chariot
That bears the Human soul
The conversations that were intelligent and interesting at the beginning turn bitter and dull towards he end. the death of the character is written in her verses. This is how it is always. You can not die until you write about it (materialise it).
I wanted to give this film more if it was more romantic, more poetry-like film about the poetess but after reading her poems I suddenly realised it would be impossible. The movie was truthful to its heroine and was the same as her writing.
THE WIND TAPPED LIKE A TIRED MAN
The wind tapped like a tired man,
And like a host, "Come in,"
I boldly answered; entered then
My residence within
A rapid, footless guest,
To offer whom a chair
Were as impossible as hand
A sofa to the air.
No bone had he to bind him,
His speech was like the push
Of numerous humming-birds at once
From a superior bush.
His countenance a billow,
His fingers, if he pass,
Let go a music, as of tunes
Blown tremulous in glass.
He visited, still flitting;
Then, like a timid man,
Again he tapped--'t was flurriedly--
And I became alone.
Some parts of the film you will find very disturbing - I found them to the extend when I had to close my eyes in order not to see human sufferings. No one likes it.
HEART! WE WILL FORGET HIM!
Heart! We will forget him!
You and I - tonight!
You may forget the
Warmth he gave -
I will forget the Light!
When you have done, pray tell me
That I may straight begin!
Haste! lest while you're lagging I may remember him!
She is a little American Goethe!
...and yes, the best poetry we write is written from 0300am till 0400am at the earliest mornings when the whole world is asleep and (seemingly) no thought forms disturb the grand source of all creations...
website
RATE: 6/10
This is the movie that I call: Began with a wedding march, ended up with a funeral dirge!"
So smart, sharp and passionate start with such a dark and most boring ending... but I guess the character development has achieved its aim: the growth from a young, happy and life loving woman who turned into a grumpy, unkind human being was painted with the best brushes possible no matter if liked it or not.
The best part is the poetry reading but hardly I could understand the meanings (the are a bit smarter than I am ) so I started reading and re-reading just now...
This is an excellent poem about Truth, Honesty and Lies... sometimes we do not know what is better...
“TELL ALL THE TRUTH BUT TELL IT SLANT...”...
Tell all the Truth but tell it slant--
Success in Circuit lies
Too bright for our infirm Delight
The Truth's superb surprise
As Lightning to the Children eased
With explanation kind
The Truth must dazzle gradually
Or every man be blind--
The dialogues in the movie is very strong, the words are heavy sometimes but the unpredictability of the course of the conversation is amazing!
“THERE IS NO FRIGATE LIKE A BOOK...”
There is no Frigate like a Book
To take us Lands away
Nor any Coursers like a Page
Of prancing Poetry--
This Travel may the poorest take
Without offence of Toll --
How frugal is the Chariot
That bears the Human soul
The conversations that were intelligent and interesting at the beginning turn bitter and dull towards he end. the death of the character is written in her verses. This is how it is always. You can not die until you write about it (materialise it).
I wanted to give this film more if it was more romantic, more poetry-like film about the poetess but after reading her poems I suddenly realised it would be impossible. The movie was truthful to its heroine and was the same as her writing.
THE WIND TAPPED LIKE A TIRED MAN
The wind tapped like a tired man,
And like a host, "Come in,"
I boldly answered; entered then
My residence within
A rapid, footless guest,
To offer whom a chair
Were as impossible as hand
A sofa to the air.
No bone had he to bind him,
His speech was like the push
Of numerous humming-birds at once
From a superior bush.
His countenance a billow,
His fingers, if he pass,
Let go a music, as of tunes
Blown tremulous in glass.
He visited, still flitting;
Then, like a timid man,
Again he tapped--'t was flurriedly--
And I became alone.
Some parts of the film you will find very disturbing - I found them to the extend when I had to close my eyes in order not to see human sufferings. No one likes it.
HEART! WE WILL FORGET HIM!
Heart! We will forget him!
You and I - tonight!
You may forget the
Warmth he gave -
I will forget the Light!
When you have done, pray tell me
That I may straight begin!
Haste! lest while you're lagging I may remember him!
She is a little American Goethe!
...and yes, the best poetry we write is written from 0300am till 0400am at the earliest mornings when the whole world is asleep and (seemingly) no thought forms disturb the grand source of all creations...
WILSON NEW
website
RATE: 7.5/10
That's a comedy which is sad in some sense as it is the film about loneliness. No matter how frustrating it is to watch how people create such lives for themselves I could not simply hold it laughing from one episode to the next.
If I was an Oscar I would give myself with no hesitation to this incredible actor: Woody Harrelson . His ability to reincarnate into his character is amazing: for one second you feel: no, he is lying,this is not him... he brings up another laughter... It is a non stop spectacle!
Wilson IS lonely but we understand why - his actions are spontaneous, he usually speaks his mind and he is neurotic to the extend that he scares all the people he meets on his way even to local cafe. Wilson meets his ex-wife and we can see that he is still in love with her but nevertheless the bed scenario is unavoidable as she is (how can I put it the right way?) a very easy going lady at her "front" nothing serious takes place. Wilson owns a dog but that also does not end up pleasantly well. Wilson also discovers that he has a 13 year old daughter but this fact also does not change much. What is gone is gone... nothing can be changed for the better. Can't it? But we say: "happy is the fool!" as eventually... I think you better go and see the film by yourself as you will enjoy it to the most. It might be a bit broken and some episodes are just "not working as they should be" but you will certainly have a good time laughing your way through the "happy?" ending...
website
RATE: 7.5/10
That's a comedy which is sad in some sense as it is the film about loneliness. No matter how frustrating it is to watch how people create such lives for themselves I could not simply hold it laughing from one episode to the next.
If I was an Oscar I would give myself with no hesitation to this incredible actor: Woody Harrelson . His ability to reincarnate into his character is amazing: for one second you feel: no, he is lying,this is not him... he brings up another laughter... It is a non stop spectacle!
Wilson IS lonely but we understand why - his actions are spontaneous, he usually speaks his mind and he is neurotic to the extend that he scares all the people he meets on his way even to local cafe. Wilson meets his ex-wife and we can see that he is still in love with her but nevertheless the bed scenario is unavoidable as she is (how can I put it the right way?) a very easy going lady at her "front" nothing serious takes place. Wilson owns a dog but that also does not end up pleasantly well. Wilson also discovers that he has a 13 year old daughter but this fact also does not change much. What is gone is gone... nothing can be changed for the better. Can't it? But we say: "happy is the fool!" as eventually... I think you better go and see the film by yourself as you will enjoy it to the most. It might be a bit broken and some episodes are just "not working as they should be" but you will certainly have a good time laughing your way through the "happy?" ending...
KING ARTHUR: THE LEGEND OF THE SWORD NEW
website
RATE: 8/10
The film started slowly and a bit unsurely catching up shortly close to the middle and the epic grand finale.
I would not call it spectacular though say compared with breathtaking Bekmambetov's Ben Gur. I also would not call it the best of Guy Ritchie's film. The cast headed by Jude Law and Charlie Hunnam was the wisest decision. Their energy and ambition shines through the whole picture and would not leave you emotion-less. the characters they though are a bit simple to my personal liking and lack a smarter script. The legend is well known.
Just some thoughts:
- not the physicality makes up heroes but their ego, ambitions and personality; nevertheless Arthur looks incredibly fit and his six-packs are impressive. One do not expect such muscles to appear hidden before under his shirt.
- i mentioned this before many times: the picture that lacks beautiful women worth nothing and brings a boredom to the spoiled eyes of the viewer. None were shown and if thy appeared they played not secondary but tertiary roles. Merlin in the female form, Mage was very good though
- our enemies create us stronger; no friend can make us the way we are
- the flashes back scenes that are mixed up with the reality weer very impressively done
- the two hours which are the duration of the movie were not even felt and were spent in watching the film in one breath
- for me personally the episodes with magic were the most attractive and how the light and dark energy got utilised and what can hit you back and what can bring you even more kindness, love and care. Whatever we bring to this world is always gets paid back to us in 20 times of its power.
- I also liked the reduced violence; not so cruel episodes of killing people and fighting in general.
- the elephants were awful and not really needed.
website
RATE: 8/10
The film started slowly and a bit unsurely catching up shortly close to the middle and the epic grand finale.
I would not call it spectacular though say compared with breathtaking Bekmambetov's Ben Gur. I also would not call it the best of Guy Ritchie's film. The cast headed by Jude Law and Charlie Hunnam was the wisest decision. Their energy and ambition shines through the whole picture and would not leave you emotion-less. the characters they though are a bit simple to my personal liking and lack a smarter script. The legend is well known.
Just some thoughts:
- not the physicality makes up heroes but their ego, ambitions and personality; nevertheless Arthur looks incredibly fit and his six-packs are impressive. One do not expect such muscles to appear hidden before under his shirt.
- i mentioned this before many times: the picture that lacks beautiful women worth nothing and brings a boredom to the spoiled eyes of the viewer. None were shown and if thy appeared they played not secondary but tertiary roles. Merlin in the female form, Mage was very good though
- our enemies create us stronger; no friend can make us the way we are
- the flashes back scenes that are mixed up with the reality weer very impressively done
- the two hours which are the duration of the movie were not even felt and were spent in watching the film in one breath
- for me personally the episodes with magic were the most attractive and how the light and dark energy got utilised and what can hit you back and what can bring you even more kindness, love and care. Whatever we bring to this world is always gets paid back to us in 20 times of its power.
- I also liked the reduced violence; not so cruel episodes of killing people and fighting in general.
- the elephants were awful and not really needed.
At media screening of King Arthur: Legend of the Sword at Crown MelbourneVillage Cinemas Crown presented by Roadshow Village Roadshow Picturesand Warner Bros. Pictures #kingarthur in cinemas may 18 tomorrow!!! #AncientHeroes
#KneelBeforeEngland
#KneelBeforeTheNewKing
#OurEnemiesCreateUsPowerful
#RespectYourEnemies
#KneelBeforeEngland
#KneelBeforeTheNewKing
#OurEnemiesCreateUsPowerful
#RespectYourEnemies
HOUNDS OF LOVE NEW
website
RATE: 2/10 for the theme and 10/10 for the film
This film will send shiver down your spine. I was revolted, I did not want to see some scenes filmed. I was thinking: why choose such disgusting people to show to the world? Would not it give some wrong ideas to the people who watch it especially to the younger generation? Why film this? I could not resist giving the film 2/10 for the subject selected for the view. It was sick.
The film was done very well though closing my eyes on the above mentioned. Great actors, all played sensationally well. The purpose was reached I guess: it was the thriller from the top to the bottom. It felt horrible,it felt hopeless and it felt awful.
I guess it will be a gourmet dinner for the horror loving audience... but was not what I like and was not what I was interested in.
website
RATE: 2/10 for the theme and 10/10 for the film
This film will send shiver down your spine. I was revolted, I did not want to see some scenes filmed. I was thinking: why choose such disgusting people to show to the world? Would not it give some wrong ideas to the people who watch it especially to the younger generation? Why film this? I could not resist giving the film 2/10 for the subject selected for the view. It was sick.
The film was done very well though closing my eyes on the above mentioned. Great actors, all played sensationally well. The purpose was reached I guess: it was the thriller from the top to the bottom. It felt horrible,it felt hopeless and it felt awful.
I guess it will be a gourmet dinner for the horror loving audience... but was not what I like and was not what I was interested in.
AMERICAN ESSENTIALS FILM FESTIVAL 2017: 20TH CENTURY WOMEN NEW
OPENING NIGHT
website
RATE: 10/10
I recommend when you go to see this film do have average expectations as this way you will have so many "wow!" moments.
This are the WOW moments that we had:
- the way Dorothea (Annette Bening) talks and what she says [ the script is marvelous!!!]
- the cast - everyone is just INCREDIBLY good
- the story is fantastically built from the point of view of a teenage boy who gets matured day after day
- the time of 70-s shown so well, so truthful and so organic
- several love stories developed absolutely unpredictably and then they change their course
- non stoppable laughing that continued throughout the entire picture screening
- true bohemian and free spirit lifestyle shown
- we noticed the auto-biographical tendency of the movie
- the soundtrack is fantastic to say the least!
- the film slightly smelt with Woody Allen somehow...
- Dorothea is yes for Oscar from us
QUOTES:
Dorothea: What is that?
Abbie: It's The Raincoats.
Dorothea: Can't things just be pretty?
Jamie: Pretty music is used to hide how unfair and corrupt society is.
Dorothea: Ah, okay so... they're not very good, and they know that, right?
Abbie: Yeah, it's like they've got this feeling, and they don't have any skill, and they don't want skill, because it's really interesting what happens when your passion is bigger than the tools you have to deal with it. It creates this energy that's raw. Isn't it great?
Dorothea: Men always feel that they have to fix things for women, but they're not doing anything. Some things just can't be fixed. Just be there, somehow that's hard for all of you.
about the relationship:
Julie: Half the time I regret it.
Jamie: Then why do you do it?
Julie: Because half the time I dont regret it.
Dorothea: [Treats bruises on Jamie's face] So what was the fight about?
Jamie: Clitoral stimulation.
Julie: [talking about the cigarettes] Can I have one?
Dorothea: No, they're really bad for you.
Julie: You smoke all the time.
Dorothea: You know when I started, they weren't bad for you, they were just stylish, sort of edgy, so... It's different for me.
Julie: I think that I'm too close to you... to have sex with you.
OPENING NIGHT
website
RATE: 10/10
I recommend when you go to see this film do have average expectations as this way you will have so many "wow!" moments.
This are the WOW moments that we had:
- the way Dorothea (Annette Bening) talks and what she says [ the script is marvelous!!!]
- the cast - everyone is just INCREDIBLY good
- the story is fantastically built from the point of view of a teenage boy who gets matured day after day
- the time of 70-s shown so well, so truthful and so organic
- several love stories developed absolutely unpredictably and then they change their course
- non stoppable laughing that continued throughout the entire picture screening
- true bohemian and free spirit lifestyle shown
- we noticed the auto-biographical tendency of the movie
- the soundtrack is fantastic to say the least!
- the film slightly smelt with Woody Allen somehow...
- Dorothea is yes for Oscar from us
QUOTES:
Dorothea: What is that?
Abbie: It's The Raincoats.
Dorothea: Can't things just be pretty?
Jamie: Pretty music is used to hide how unfair and corrupt society is.
Dorothea: Ah, okay so... they're not very good, and they know that, right?
Abbie: Yeah, it's like they've got this feeling, and they don't have any skill, and they don't want skill, because it's really interesting what happens when your passion is bigger than the tools you have to deal with it. It creates this energy that's raw. Isn't it great?
Dorothea: Men always feel that they have to fix things for women, but they're not doing anything. Some things just can't be fixed. Just be there, somehow that's hard for all of you.
about the relationship:
Julie: Half the time I regret it.
Jamie: Then why do you do it?
Julie: Because half the time I dont regret it.
Dorothea: [Treats bruises on Jamie's face] So what was the fight about?
Jamie: Clitoral stimulation.
Julie: [talking about the cigarettes] Can I have one?
Dorothea: No, they're really bad for you.
Julie: You smoke all the time.
Dorothea: You know when I started, they weren't bad for you, they were just stylish, sort of edgy, so... It's different for me.
Julie: I think that I'm too close to you... to have sex with you.
NORMAN NEW
website
RATE: 7.5/10
Norman is a shyster, Norman is a fixer of large economical and political deals and he works in the shadows,. He is crafty, he works using the n=methods you would not think would be working in the top society but apparently his multiple arrows can reach the target - at least one of them can. His game is close to the chess, no more like poker: he begs, he bluffs and sometimes he buys out his client. His clumsiness is not attractive. e stocks his clients. His game is complex and no one else wants to do it. He possesses nothing: he eats like a homeless and who knows where he sleeps/ Richard Gere portrays the character so very well we fall for his tricks. I almost started believing that Richard was doing it once in his life. the transformation is amazing and I have to admit this profession suits him well. Norman's connections are priceless: he knows practically everyone and what buttons to push to make something work well. People get high level positions just because of him. People make themselves important and forget who he is. There is a personality under the shell of that "fixer". The personality is fragile. It is foxy but not violent. Norman stories build high.... until suddenly the unpredictable event crashes it all... taking Norman together with his skyscraper of important connections. Should we feel for him?.. We do... but there might be another one coming to replace Norman, same skills, same methods... Who knows...
This is an interesting subject I have never seen
website
RATE: 7.5/10
Norman is a shyster, Norman is a fixer of large economical and political deals and he works in the shadows,. He is crafty, he works using the n=methods you would not think would be working in the top society but apparently his multiple arrows can reach the target - at least one of them can. His game is close to the chess, no more like poker: he begs, he bluffs and sometimes he buys out his client. His clumsiness is not attractive. e stocks his clients. His game is complex and no one else wants to do it. He possesses nothing: he eats like a homeless and who knows where he sleeps/ Richard Gere portrays the character so very well we fall for his tricks. I almost started believing that Richard was doing it once in his life. the transformation is amazing and I have to admit this profession suits him well. Norman's connections are priceless: he knows practically everyone and what buttons to push to make something work well. People get high level positions just because of him. People make themselves important and forget who he is. There is a personality under the shell of that "fixer". The personality is fragile. It is foxy but not violent. Norman stories build high.... until suddenly the unpredictable event crashes it all... taking Norman together with his skyscraper of important connections. Should we feel for him?.. We do... but there might be another one coming to replace Norman, same skills, same methods... Who knows...
This is an interesting subject I have never seen
JOHN WICK CHAPTER 2 NEW
website
RATE: 8/10
review by Benjamin Newall
Guns, knives, fists and Keanu Reeves. What more could you ask for? How about an appearance from his original ‘Matrix’ mentor, Laurence Fishburne? Yes, ‘John Wick Chapter 2’ offers all this and more.
With the unexpected success of the original film, it was only a matter of time before this sequel came out, bringing back the feared but loved assassin John Wick played by Keanu Reeves. The film picks up shortly after the events of the original movie, doing so quite well, when the original movie ended without the idea of a sequel.
In this chapter, we follow John Wick to the other side of the world to Rome. Mr Wick has been charged with the task of carrying out the assassination of a prominent figure in order to repay a debt. Unbeknown to Mr Wick that at the conclusion of this job, a bounty is put on his head by the very same man who hired him.
So now John Wick is on the other side of world, with every bounty hunter possible gunning for him, and just trying to stay alive. Enter Laurence Fishburne. Any audience member who saw ‘The Matrix’ can’t help but smile to see these two reunited. Fishburne’s character is an old target of John Wicks, who Mr Wick let live, so in some twisted way he is indebted to Mr Wick, not that he will ever admit that. Fishburne’s character is hard, in charge and willing to do what is needed to look after his own, so after a little persuasion, he helps Mr Wick to go after the man who put the bounty on his head.
Eventually this story does a full round about and we end back with our two central characters, our hero and our villain, back in the United States at the Continental Hotel owned by Winston, once again played by the talented Ian McShane. The rules are simple at the Continental; no business is to be done on hotel grounds. Our villain Santino casually sits at the hotel when Mr Wick enters, knowing Mr Wick cannot lay a finger on him. But will John Wick, the Boogy Man, break the rules?
The movie was filled with more action than the original, and a bit less story. In a way this is to be expected, as a lot of the back story of Mr Wick was shown in the first movie. It feels like the second was a way to show just what John Wick is capable off, and also provide a good story line to lead into a third movie.
It was nice to see some of the original characters back who you could not help but like from the first movie, and some new ones who you were interested to see, Laurence Fishburne and Ruby Rose being the two most interesting. Also, due to the killing of the original dog in the first film, being able to see the relationship between Mr Wick and his new dog was very sweet.
Although I did not feel it matched the original in terms of story and character development, they have raised the bar in terms of action. If you enjoyed the first one, I highly recommend the second, and if you like a good action movie, this is well worth it. ‘John Wick Chapter 2’ pulls an impressive 8 out of 10, and it is well worth seeing.
website
RATE: 8/10
review by Benjamin Newall
Guns, knives, fists and Keanu Reeves. What more could you ask for? How about an appearance from his original ‘Matrix’ mentor, Laurence Fishburne? Yes, ‘John Wick Chapter 2’ offers all this and more.
With the unexpected success of the original film, it was only a matter of time before this sequel came out, bringing back the feared but loved assassin John Wick played by Keanu Reeves. The film picks up shortly after the events of the original movie, doing so quite well, when the original movie ended without the idea of a sequel.
In this chapter, we follow John Wick to the other side of the world to Rome. Mr Wick has been charged with the task of carrying out the assassination of a prominent figure in order to repay a debt. Unbeknown to Mr Wick that at the conclusion of this job, a bounty is put on his head by the very same man who hired him.
So now John Wick is on the other side of world, with every bounty hunter possible gunning for him, and just trying to stay alive. Enter Laurence Fishburne. Any audience member who saw ‘The Matrix’ can’t help but smile to see these two reunited. Fishburne’s character is an old target of John Wicks, who Mr Wick let live, so in some twisted way he is indebted to Mr Wick, not that he will ever admit that. Fishburne’s character is hard, in charge and willing to do what is needed to look after his own, so after a little persuasion, he helps Mr Wick to go after the man who put the bounty on his head.
Eventually this story does a full round about and we end back with our two central characters, our hero and our villain, back in the United States at the Continental Hotel owned by Winston, once again played by the talented Ian McShane. The rules are simple at the Continental; no business is to be done on hotel grounds. Our villain Santino casually sits at the hotel when Mr Wick enters, knowing Mr Wick cannot lay a finger on him. But will John Wick, the Boogy Man, break the rules?
The movie was filled with more action than the original, and a bit less story. In a way this is to be expected, as a lot of the back story of Mr Wick was shown in the first movie. It feels like the second was a way to show just what John Wick is capable off, and also provide a good story line to lead into a third movie.
It was nice to see some of the original characters back who you could not help but like from the first movie, and some new ones who you were interested to see, Laurence Fishburne and Ruby Rose being the two most interesting. Also, due to the killing of the original dog in the first film, being able to see the relationship between Mr Wick and his new dog was very sweet.
Although I did not feel it matched the original in terms of story and character development, they have raised the bar in terms of action. If you enjoyed the first one, I highly recommend the second, and if you like a good action movie, this is well worth it. ‘John Wick Chapter 2’ pulls an impressive 8 out of 10, and it is well worth seeing.
HANDSOME DEVIL NEW
website
RATE: 7/10
This is the film about your identity, about living your true self and about friendship of course.
Ned, a teenager from the last years of school does not fete his new boarding school easily. He is thrown into this school by his father and his new woman who does not really care whee the kid will go as long as he is not close to her lover , his dad. Ned is very different at school where even the hair styles of the boys look similar. Ned's red hair stand apart from the crowd as well as his attitude. He is not liked and he is obviously bullied. Ned is sensitive. The characters of the film are rich and are played so very well by the crew. The movie is also rotates around sport (rugby game) with its challenges where the characters are more likely to express themselves. Andrew Scott (who is absolutely fabulous in this film! - just watch every move he makes!) plays inspirational English teacher who is like a light in the tunnel for the boys in trouble. His name is Dan and he encourages the boys to be free and to express who they are. You are abut to discover if this advice from Dan will be followed.
I would not say the film is powerful enough to make 10 out of 10 and get my thumbs rise high but it is definitely distinctive and one of a kind. It will also find a wide audience that will be attracted by its boy-ish charm. It is a must see for the confused teenagers struggling to find their way in the crowd that rejects them.
"you spend your lives playing someone else, who's going to be you?"
website
RATE: 7/10
This is the film about your identity, about living your true self and about friendship of course.
Ned, a teenager from the last years of school does not fete his new boarding school easily. He is thrown into this school by his father and his new woman who does not really care whee the kid will go as long as he is not close to her lover , his dad. Ned is very different at school where even the hair styles of the boys look similar. Ned's red hair stand apart from the crowd as well as his attitude. He is not liked and he is obviously bullied. Ned is sensitive. The characters of the film are rich and are played so very well by the crew. The movie is also rotates around sport (rugby game) with its challenges where the characters are more likely to express themselves. Andrew Scott (who is absolutely fabulous in this film! - just watch every move he makes!) plays inspirational English teacher who is like a light in the tunnel for the boys in trouble. His name is Dan and he encourages the boys to be free and to express who they are. You are abut to discover if this advice from Dan will be followed.
I would not say the film is powerful enough to make 10 out of 10 and get my thumbs rise high but it is definitely distinctive and one of a kind. It will also find a wide audience that will be attracted by its boy-ish charm. It is a must see for the confused teenagers struggling to find their way in the crowd that rejects them.
"you spend your lives playing someone else, who's going to be you?"
A DOG'S PURPOSE NEW
website
RATE: 7/10
I was watching this film and waiting for the miracle to happen... But it did not!It is such a marvelous idea - to film the reincarnation of the dog and do it all from the dog's perspective: the talk, the camera and so on. It would work so well if the script was perhaps a little bit more advanced and the whole film would work, but for some reason it did not glue together right for me. The conversations seem to be a bit naive and the impression from the film was "childish", but not because it was made for t he children, but because it was way too simple. Good film to watch with the family and kids and great to watch if you are dog lover but do not expect too much - this way you will not be so disappointed. I would also like to highlight the hard work of the many dogs-actors in this film;they are beauties indeed!
website
RATE: 7/10
I was watching this film and waiting for the miracle to happen... But it did not!It is such a marvelous idea - to film the reincarnation of the dog and do it all from the dog's perspective: the talk, the camera and so on. It would work so well if the script was perhaps a little bit more advanced and the whole film would work, but for some reason it did not glue together right for me. The conversations seem to be a bit naive and the impression from the film was "childish", but not because it was made for t he children, but because it was way too simple. Good film to watch with the family and kids and great to watch if you are dog lover but do not expect too much - this way you will not be so disappointed. I would also like to highlight the hard work of the many dogs-actors in this film;they are beauties indeed!
NERUDA NEW
website
RATE: 8.5/10
To be honest this is one of not many films in the last month that I would love to watch twice. Not only because it it involves lots of poetry reading that turns my mind into a trans-meditative state that many women enjoy so much as it is similar to falling in love...
I do not love you except because I love you;
I go from loving to not loving you,
From waiting to not waiting for you
My heart moves from cold to fire.
I love you only because it's you the one I love;
I hate you deeply, and hating you
Bend to you, and the measure of my changing love for you
Is that I do not see you but love you blindly.
Maybe January light will consume
My heart with its cruel
Ray, stealing my key to true calm.
In this part of the story I am the one who
Dies, the only one, and I will die of love because I love you,
Because I love you, Love, in fire and blood.
To be honest and to my shame I discovered during the film that I knew about the poet a little if I could say "nothing to little". I vaguely remember his biography from some school text books only because the genius mind was a communist. the fact that did not actually diminish his poetry but probably it had nothing to do with poetry. We were told at school that poetry is political, it is national and it is political. I always tend t reject this idea. Poetry is there to show you the beauty of the world not to manipulate the crowds and minds. It is not the flag nor it is the poster , poetry is there to reflect within the reader and to show you the beauty of your soul. When the art is used in political purposes it looses its creative agenda - t simply turns into a tool of killing like a gun. We are not here to kill, but to love. But let's go back to the movie. You will find it unusual, you will find it surreal and very unique. It also so Spanish in its core. I was expecting a boring bio film but it turned into an artistic experience in its best with no comparison. I gave it not a 10 but a bit lower mark as I was lost at some of the episodes. The final scenes were the most powerful and so unforgettable. The film looks more like a long poem rather than your usual biography film.
I wonder how this would sound in Spanish
Take bread away from me, if you wish,
take air away, but
do not take from me your laughter.
Do not take away the rose,
the lance flower that you pluck,
the water that suddenly
bursts forth in joy,
the sudden wave
of silver born in you.
My struggle is harsh and I come back
with eyes tired
at times from having seen
the unchanging earth,
but when your laughter enters
it rises to the sky seeking me
and it opens for me all
the doors of life.
My love, in the darkest
hour your laughter
opens, and if suddenly
you see my blood staining
the stones of the street,
laugh, because your laughter
will be for my hands
like a fresh sword.
Next to the sea in the autumn,
your laughter must raise
its foamy cascade,
and in the spring, love,
I want your laughter like
the flower I was waiting for,
the blue flower, the rose
of my echoing country.
Laugh at the night,
at the day, at the moon,
laugh at the twisted
streets of the island,
laugh at this clumsy
boy who loves you,
but when I open
my eyes and close them,
when my steps go,
when my steps return,
deny me bread, air,
light, spring,
but never your laughter
for I would die.
website
RATE: 8.5/10
To be honest this is one of not many films in the last month that I would love to watch twice. Not only because it it involves lots of poetry reading that turns my mind into a trans-meditative state that many women enjoy so much as it is similar to falling in love...
I do not love you except because I love you;
I go from loving to not loving you,
From waiting to not waiting for you
My heart moves from cold to fire.
I love you only because it's you the one I love;
I hate you deeply, and hating you
Bend to you, and the measure of my changing love for you
Is that I do not see you but love you blindly.
Maybe January light will consume
My heart with its cruel
Ray, stealing my key to true calm.
In this part of the story I am the one who
Dies, the only one, and I will die of love because I love you,
Because I love you, Love, in fire and blood.
To be honest and to my shame I discovered during the film that I knew about the poet a little if I could say "nothing to little". I vaguely remember his biography from some school text books only because the genius mind was a communist. the fact that did not actually diminish his poetry but probably it had nothing to do with poetry. We were told at school that poetry is political, it is national and it is political. I always tend t reject this idea. Poetry is there to show you the beauty of the world not to manipulate the crowds and minds. It is not the flag nor it is the poster , poetry is there to reflect within the reader and to show you the beauty of your soul. When the art is used in political purposes it looses its creative agenda - t simply turns into a tool of killing like a gun. We are not here to kill, but to love. But let's go back to the movie. You will find it unusual, you will find it surreal and very unique. It also so Spanish in its core. I was expecting a boring bio film but it turned into an artistic experience in its best with no comparison. I gave it not a 10 but a bit lower mark as I was lost at some of the episodes. The final scenes were the most powerful and so unforgettable. The film looks more like a long poem rather than your usual biography film.
I wonder how this would sound in Spanish
Take bread away from me, if you wish,
take air away, but
do not take from me your laughter.
Do not take away the rose,
the lance flower that you pluck,
the water that suddenly
bursts forth in joy,
the sudden wave
of silver born in you.
My struggle is harsh and I come back
with eyes tired
at times from having seen
the unchanging earth,
but when your laughter enters
it rises to the sky seeking me
and it opens for me all
the doors of life.
My love, in the darkest
hour your laughter
opens, and if suddenly
you see my blood staining
the stones of the street,
laugh, because your laughter
will be for my hands
like a fresh sword.
Next to the sea in the autumn,
your laughter must raise
its foamy cascade,
and in the spring, love,
I want your laughter like
the flower I was waiting for,
the blue flower, the rose
of my echoing country.
Laugh at the night,
at the day, at the moon,
laugh at the twisted
streets of the island,
laugh at this clumsy
boy who loves you,
but when I open
my eyes and close them,
when my steps go,
when my steps return,
deny me bread, air,
light, spring,
but never your laughter
for I would die.
VOODOO NEW
website
review by Susie Cashmere
Title : Voodoo
Genre : Horror
Run Time : 83 mins
Directed by Tom Costable
Written by : Tom Costable
Starring: Samantha Stewart, Ruth Reynolds and Dominic Matteucci.
Danni (Samantha Stewart) decides to take a vacation from her home town of Louisiana and stay with her cousin Stacey (Reynolds) in Los Angeles.
She wants to escape a relationship she was in with a married man who is married to a woman with voodoo powers. The wife is known in the area as a “High Priestess”.
The start is like any other teen film where the two go on adventures and have fun in the sun of L.A. You know it’s leading up to something when Danni turns her light off, and you see an evil spirit above her.
Her cousin is also seen to be lifted off the beach by a strange power, none the wiser of what has happened.
Danni gets a call from her ex to tell her that his wife has followed her to L.A. Now she begins to get scared.
The movie then turns into something that is almost like a whole different movie altogether.
Suddenly it’s night and the gates of “Hell” are opened.
Possessed creatures torture Danni and her cousin. Stacey is, in fact possessed herself.,
As Danni is an aspiring film maker, everything she does is recorded. Very strange in that the story keeps being recorded on video, but the viewers are left wondering “How??”
Then it just becomes a crazy mess of body dismembering and strange voices and laughter.
There is even a rape scene with Satan.
It’s a low budget film, so I didn’t expect a classic, but none of the story made sense, except that Danni suffered under the powers of her ex’s wife.
Crazy viewing, with a crazy ending. Still, I watched it hoping for some form of closure. Sadly that did not happen, but at least some aspects of horror were shown, even if in a disjointed way.
I would give this movie a 3/10.
website
review by Susie Cashmere
Title : Voodoo
Genre : Horror
Run Time : 83 mins
Directed by Tom Costable
Written by : Tom Costable
Starring: Samantha Stewart, Ruth Reynolds and Dominic Matteucci.
Danni (Samantha Stewart) decides to take a vacation from her home town of Louisiana and stay with her cousin Stacey (Reynolds) in Los Angeles.
She wants to escape a relationship she was in with a married man who is married to a woman with voodoo powers. The wife is known in the area as a “High Priestess”.
The start is like any other teen film where the two go on adventures and have fun in the sun of L.A. You know it’s leading up to something when Danni turns her light off, and you see an evil spirit above her.
Her cousin is also seen to be lifted off the beach by a strange power, none the wiser of what has happened.
Danni gets a call from her ex to tell her that his wife has followed her to L.A. Now she begins to get scared.
The movie then turns into something that is almost like a whole different movie altogether.
Suddenly it’s night and the gates of “Hell” are opened.
Possessed creatures torture Danni and her cousin. Stacey is, in fact possessed herself.,
As Danni is an aspiring film maker, everything she does is recorded. Very strange in that the story keeps being recorded on video, but the viewers are left wondering “How??”
Then it just becomes a crazy mess of body dismembering and strange voices and laughter.
There is even a rape scene with Satan.
It’s a low budget film, so I didn’t expect a classic, but none of the story made sense, except that Danni suffered under the powers of her ex’s wife.
Crazy viewing, with a crazy ending. Still, I watched it hoping for some form of closure. Sadly that did not happen, but at least some aspects of horror were shown, even if in a disjointed way.
I would give this movie a 3/10.
BEST OF SEVEN NEW
website
review by Glen Wilson
Best of seven 2016
Directed by Jonnie Stapleton.
Starring Jonnie Stapleton, Paula Kelley and Jim Armstrong.
Jonnie suffers from a rare multiple personality disorder.
After a near fatal overdose Jonnie decides to go for one week with his medication.
As each day passes Jonnies alter personalities emerge – but with a bizarre twist,
Each personality manifests as a new person and room mate for jonnie & as the chaos develops Jonnie losses his girlfriend, Job and house.
Adding to the chaos a winning lottery ticket causes Jonnie`s alter ego`s to start killing each other off.
Best of Seven is a rather off the wall comedy, with a fair share of profanity’s and attempted humour.
Stapleton does a commendable job of multiple roll playing and directing and the scenes where multiple characters appear are extremely well executed.
Best of seven is an interesting concept which unfortunately didn’t quite meet up to my expectations.
But that’s just one viewers opinion...
website
review by Glen Wilson
Best of seven 2016
Directed by Jonnie Stapleton.
Starring Jonnie Stapleton, Paula Kelley and Jim Armstrong.
Jonnie suffers from a rare multiple personality disorder.
After a near fatal overdose Jonnie decides to go for one week with his medication.
As each day passes Jonnies alter personalities emerge – but with a bizarre twist,
Each personality manifests as a new person and room mate for jonnie & as the chaos develops Jonnie losses his girlfriend, Job and house.
Adding to the chaos a winning lottery ticket causes Jonnie`s alter ego`s to start killing each other off.
Best of Seven is a rather off the wall comedy, with a fair share of profanity’s and attempted humour.
Stapleton does a commendable job of multiple roll playing and directing and the scenes where multiple characters appear are extremely well executed.
Best of seven is an interesting concept which unfortunately didn’t quite meet up to my expectations.
But that’s just one viewers opinion...
KING ARTHUR AND THE KNIGHTS OF THE ROUND TABLE NEW
website
review by Benjamin Newall
2017 seems to be the year of King Arthur, and with a major blockbuster soon to hit cinemas, a smaller, B grade low budget sci-fi version of the film has gone un-noticed, however that may not be a bad thing.
In a modern retelling of the clasic tale, with a sci-fi twist, King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, brings in all the characters you are familuar with, including the evil villian Morgana and her son. After being banished to out of space by Merlin 1500 years ago, Morgana now returns in a space ship for revenge. I know, already sounds like someone really didn’t know what they were going for.
The film has seemed to have being shot on a low budget and a lot of scenes I think were more based around where they were able to film rather than where they would have liked to film, though with that said, they did a half decent job at playing this off, and carrying on with the story.
Unfortunately though, even if they had got the locations they wanted and you over looked the odd sci-fi twist that was not needed, it was hard to over look the one dimensional characters. From our lead protagonist, to our trusty sidekicks and comic relief to our antagonist who you know will end up defeated, probably in a rather corny way. And by the way, yes it is done in a rather corny way, but the climax though not making up for the film does give it a small bit of credibility.
So through some fun action sequences, simple one liners and a very simple the hero will beat the villain story. It is a basic one dimensional movie that will probably be a difficult one to sit through. So unless you have being a fan of old school B grade movies just for laughs, this is probably not a film to go out of your way to see.
With all those basics and one dimensional characters, but some half decent kind of fun action sequences I would give it a rating of 2 out of 5 stars. However that could be a lower rating for anyone who can’t laugh at the corniness of this movie.
website
review by Benjamin Newall
2017 seems to be the year of King Arthur, and with a major blockbuster soon to hit cinemas, a smaller, B grade low budget sci-fi version of the film has gone un-noticed, however that may not be a bad thing.
In a modern retelling of the clasic tale, with a sci-fi twist, King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, brings in all the characters you are familuar with, including the evil villian Morgana and her son. After being banished to out of space by Merlin 1500 years ago, Morgana now returns in a space ship for revenge. I know, already sounds like someone really didn’t know what they were going for.
The film has seemed to have being shot on a low budget and a lot of scenes I think were more based around where they were able to film rather than where they would have liked to film, though with that said, they did a half decent job at playing this off, and carrying on with the story.
Unfortunately though, even if they had got the locations they wanted and you over looked the odd sci-fi twist that was not needed, it was hard to over look the one dimensional characters. From our lead protagonist, to our trusty sidekicks and comic relief to our antagonist who you know will end up defeated, probably in a rather corny way. And by the way, yes it is done in a rather corny way, but the climax though not making up for the film does give it a small bit of credibility.
So through some fun action sequences, simple one liners and a very simple the hero will beat the villain story. It is a basic one dimensional movie that will probably be a difficult one to sit through. So unless you have being a fan of old school B grade movies just for laughs, this is probably not a film to go out of your way to see.
With all those basics and one dimensional characters, but some half decent kind of fun action sequences I would give it a rating of 2 out of 5 stars. However that could be a lower rating for anyone who can’t laugh at the corniness of this movie.
AMERICAN EXORCISM NEW
website
review by Susie Cashmere
American Exorcism
2017
1min,32sec
Directed by : Tripp Weathers
Written by: Tripp Weathers
Michael Filipowich, Braxton Davis, Kate Tumanova
From the opening scene, I thought, “What have I got myself into”, as a possessed creature jerks through a forest and a hand is placed on his head, releasing red evil spirits.
Cut to a family scene where Damon ( who was the creature and has only been partially exorcised) has a loving wife and daughter.
Against the wishes of his wife, Damon decides to help the padre who once helped him to perform one last exorcism, before he would leave for Rome to rid of any form of evil still within him.
Once he has finished performing the final exorcism, he returns home, only to find the spiteful demon has possessed his wife out of revenge.
The team try to rid her of the demon and after she kills one of them, she is then killed herself.
Forward 10 years.
Damon is a reclusive surfer, his daughter is in foster care.
One of Damon’s old team mates returns to let him know that something evil awaits his daughter for her 18th birthday.
Maybe he is too late, as one of his daughter’s ex boyfriends dies a strange and unexpected death.
The rest of the movie is fight scenes for ridding of demons which have infiltrated his daughters life.
The plot is predictable and the fight scenes looked more like scenes out of a martial arts film. Rigid and quite frankly, only entertaining for its humorous content.
It’s not the worst horror movie I have seen, and I’ve seen many, but it wasn’t great.
If you are a big fan of exorcism, then this movie will kill some time.
Overall, I give it a 4/10
Susie Cashmere
website
review by Susie Cashmere
American Exorcism
2017
1min,32sec
Directed by : Tripp Weathers
Written by: Tripp Weathers
Michael Filipowich, Braxton Davis, Kate Tumanova
From the opening scene, I thought, “What have I got myself into”, as a possessed creature jerks through a forest and a hand is placed on his head, releasing red evil spirits.
Cut to a family scene where Damon ( who was the creature and has only been partially exorcised) has a loving wife and daughter.
Against the wishes of his wife, Damon decides to help the padre who once helped him to perform one last exorcism, before he would leave for Rome to rid of any form of evil still within him.
Once he has finished performing the final exorcism, he returns home, only to find the spiteful demon has possessed his wife out of revenge.
The team try to rid her of the demon and after she kills one of them, she is then killed herself.
Forward 10 years.
Damon is a reclusive surfer, his daughter is in foster care.
One of Damon’s old team mates returns to let him know that something evil awaits his daughter for her 18th birthday.
Maybe he is too late, as one of his daughter’s ex boyfriends dies a strange and unexpected death.
The rest of the movie is fight scenes for ridding of demons which have infiltrated his daughters life.
The plot is predictable and the fight scenes looked more like scenes out of a martial arts film. Rigid and quite frankly, only entertaining for its humorous content.
It’s not the worst horror movie I have seen, and I’ve seen many, but it wasn’t great.
If you are a big fan of exorcism, then this movie will kill some time.
Overall, I give it a 4/10
Susie Cashmere
THE ASYLUM OF DARKNESS NEW
website
review by Susie Cashmere
“Asylum of Darness”
Genre: Horror
Running Time: 117 mins
Directed by: Jay Woelfel
Written by: Jay Woelfel
Starring: Nick Baldasare, Richard Hatch and Amanda Howell.
After waking up in a mental asylum, Dwight Stroud ( Nick Balsadore) plans an escape, convinced he is not guilty of the heinous crime he has committed.
Upon escaping, Dwight finds disturbing, supernatural images confronting him as he “steals” the identity of the victim of a car crash.
The movie itself was a complete mess, with no real story line, jumping from one scene to the next, leaving the viewer to wonder what was real or what was happening inside Dwight’s mind.
The acting was wooden and even the late Richard Hatch could not make any of the acting credible, making it extremely painful to watch.
On a positive note (the only one), the special effects were good, made up of faceless beings and slimy creatures entering and leaving bodies.
Overall, the story did not make sense and in the end, we are still wondering just what happened.
I would give it a 2/10 due to the effects and I would say “Don’t waste your time”
Susie Cashmere
website
review by Susie Cashmere
“Asylum of Darness”
Genre: Horror
Running Time: 117 mins
Directed by: Jay Woelfel
Written by: Jay Woelfel
Starring: Nick Baldasare, Richard Hatch and Amanda Howell.
After waking up in a mental asylum, Dwight Stroud ( Nick Balsadore) plans an escape, convinced he is not guilty of the heinous crime he has committed.
Upon escaping, Dwight finds disturbing, supernatural images confronting him as he “steals” the identity of the victim of a car crash.
The movie itself was a complete mess, with no real story line, jumping from one scene to the next, leaving the viewer to wonder what was real or what was happening inside Dwight’s mind.
The acting was wooden and even the late Richard Hatch could not make any of the acting credible, making it extremely painful to watch.
On a positive note (the only one), the special effects were good, made up of faceless beings and slimy creatures entering and leaving bodies.
Overall, the story did not make sense and in the end, we are still wondering just what happened.
I would give it a 2/10 due to the effects and I would say “Don’t waste your time”
Susie Cashmere
PORK PIE NEW
website
RATE:10/10
If you are after a good comedy from down after you should not search any more as it is in front of you! I have not seen an old version of the film I can only vouch for the new, the remake. I am not in the position to compare and say what is better. I know with all my guts- this film was done sensationally well on so many levels. The director's work is immaculate. I am surprised actually as it looks like the first (?) film of Matt Murphy although his experience in the filming industry looks to be very extensive.
The story is simple: three outlaws (who can hardly be named criminals due to the nature of the film and the character portrait in the way when the lawbreaker is looking like a farce hero rather than a dangerous typage) travel in a stolen yellow mini through the New Zealand cities and country side. One of them is battling to get his love back, the other of maori origins one had childhood problems and the third one protests the society with her misbehave (but for a good reason of course - and it is not only vegetarian)
I predict the film will be not only the local (Australian and New Zealandian) hit but will break some records overseas.
The comedy and action blend in the movie so well you will see it in one deep breath only to be interrupted by yours and your friends and theater seat neighbours' loud laughs. It is bizarre as you will not know or predict what will happen in the next two minutes.
If you wanted me to describe the film in one word I would say "brilliant and would say that one word would not describe it, it has to be seen as it is all in good quality action, in facial expressions, in sceneries and in .that good film essence that is beyond any words. I had a feeling that the movie would be good but did not expect that it would be that good. It is fresh and it gives you that energy that many action movies lack these days - it is real though it is not and it is unique.
The characters are rather aberrant: they make spontaneous decisions right on the spot that would surprise the most complicated personality. Each character is quirky but at the same time very believable.
The film does not have any purpose - this make it even more attractive. It is there for us to forget our every day worries and duties, it is there to entertain.
website
RATE:10/10
If you are after a good comedy from down after you should not search any more as it is in front of you! I have not seen an old version of the film I can only vouch for the new, the remake. I am not in the position to compare and say what is better. I know with all my guts- this film was done sensationally well on so many levels. The director's work is immaculate. I am surprised actually as it looks like the first (?) film of Matt Murphy although his experience in the filming industry looks to be very extensive.
The story is simple: three outlaws (who can hardly be named criminals due to the nature of the film and the character portrait in the way when the lawbreaker is looking like a farce hero rather than a dangerous typage) travel in a stolen yellow mini through the New Zealand cities and country side. One of them is battling to get his love back, the other of maori origins one had childhood problems and the third one protests the society with her misbehave (but for a good reason of course - and it is not only vegetarian)
I predict the film will be not only the local (Australian and New Zealandian) hit but will break some records overseas.
The comedy and action blend in the movie so well you will see it in one deep breath only to be interrupted by yours and your friends and theater seat neighbours' loud laughs. It is bizarre as you will not know or predict what will happen in the next two minutes.
If you wanted me to describe the film in one word I would say "brilliant and would say that one word would not describe it, it has to be seen as it is all in good quality action, in facial expressions, in sceneries and in .that good film essence that is beyond any words. I had a feeling that the movie would be good but did not expect that it would be that good. It is fresh and it gives you that energy that many action movies lack these days - it is real though it is not and it is unique.
The characters are rather aberrant: they make spontaneous decisions right on the spot that would surprise the most complicated personality. Each character is quirky but at the same time very believable.
The film does not have any purpose - this make it even more attractive. It is there for us to forget our every day worries and duties, it is there to entertain.
AMERICAN ESSENTIALS FILM FESTIVAL 2017: DAVID LYNCH THE ART LIFE NEW
website
RATE: 6/10
He obviously was a very good looking man when he was young - he still is. David takes us on a journey through his life and the young years of his art career to show what shaped his artistic predilections, his style and the themes he selects for his creative expressions. David is strange. His art forms and the love for such unusual selections of materials does not ring any of my bells. I have been surprised if not shocked with his choices of what to show to the world although I have not seen a lot in art I have a gut feeling what resonates in my soul and what does not. It is simply not my road or how they say it: not my up of tea although I have to pay my respect to David's ability to work for so many hours and his love to what he is doing... I almost went blind because of the smoke he produced during this film... thank god it was not real.
website
RATE: 6/10
He obviously was a very good looking man when he was young - he still is. David takes us on a journey through his life and the young years of his art career to show what shaped his artistic predilections, his style and the themes he selects for his creative expressions. David is strange. His art forms and the love for such unusual selections of materials does not ring any of my bells. I have been surprised if not shocked with his choices of what to show to the world although I have not seen a lot in art I have a gut feeling what resonates in my soul and what does not. It is simply not my road or how they say it: not my up of tea although I have to pay my respect to David's ability to work for so many hours and his love to what he is doing... I almost went blind because of the smoke he produced during this film... thank god it was not real.
At the media launch of #AmericanEssentialsFilmFestival 2017 run by Palace Cinema Como - screening the film about David Lynch : David Lynch The Art Life // Miranda Brown Publicity. Feeling relaxed after my morning treatment at Chanoyu Urban Retreat - reviews to come up soon..
THE ZOOKEEPER'S WIFE NEW
website
RATE: 8/10
The film depicts Poland during the times of invasion , occupation and war with Germany in 1940-s. We are shown the life of a rather unusual family: the zookeepers in Warsaw, Antonina and Jan Zabinski, their struggles during the hard times for polish people and their amazing efforts to save the handful of wild animals that still survived at the Zoo. Not only they are occupied with their duties for the animals, they are doing a far better job saving people's lives. It was claimed that they helped more than 300 Jews from Polish Ghetto (...and remember that The Warsaw Ghetto was the largest of all the Jewish ghettos in Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II and the one with the best security guards) , saving their lives and assisting them to escape the country. They failed only once when two women they managed to help were caught and killed. The story is based on true facts from history. The original book that was the base of the movie originated from the unpublished diary of Antonina Zabinska and Jan Zabinski, the director of the Warsaw Zoo in Poland.
The film is very well done forget about very cute live animals featured which can make any heart melt (there is no graphocal work done on filming the animals - they are all real as well as the episodes with them), The picture is structured very well and showed the perfectly developed main characters with their moral dilemmas, personal choices, truths and psychological dramas. The actors are ALL simply superb: Jessica Chastain is a perfect match for the main heroine: her facial mimic expressions and hidden feelings are played fabulously well. Daniel Brühl is brilliant as ever as well as Johan Heldenbergh. It would be a great miss for me not to mention the supportive crew as well which plays no less if not better than the mains.
The film keeps you on your toes from the very beginning to the very end. It has many unpredictable turns on the way to the final note, positive and promising but we still feel the sadness as the war takes its deadly toll on everything that surrounds the happiness of life.
For me personally it was interesting to observe Antonina's inner work on trying to save her family and doing anything to please the German authority for the sake of her family protection. Her inner work deserves the medal on its own. It is hard t show love when the hatred is a more appropriate feeling. She manages to run it through her soul with the brilliance of an actress of a very high class. Antonina's love for animals and people is beyond any human understanding. She will do anything to save as many as she can for what ever price she has to pay for it, even the danger to her own family does not stop her. When we talk about one man woman creating a history this is that kind of story.
Would I recommend the film to watch? Absolute and definite yes for me here. You children will like it too as there is no much kindness shown to learn from.
website
RATE: 8/10
The film depicts Poland during the times of invasion , occupation and war with Germany in 1940-s. We are shown the life of a rather unusual family: the zookeepers in Warsaw, Antonina and Jan Zabinski, their struggles during the hard times for polish people and their amazing efforts to save the handful of wild animals that still survived at the Zoo. Not only they are occupied with their duties for the animals, they are doing a far better job saving people's lives. It was claimed that they helped more than 300 Jews from Polish Ghetto (...and remember that The Warsaw Ghetto was the largest of all the Jewish ghettos in Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II and the one with the best security guards) , saving their lives and assisting them to escape the country. They failed only once when two women they managed to help were caught and killed. The story is based on true facts from history. The original book that was the base of the movie originated from the unpublished diary of Antonina Zabinska and Jan Zabinski, the director of the Warsaw Zoo in Poland.
The film is very well done forget about very cute live animals featured which can make any heart melt (there is no graphocal work done on filming the animals - they are all real as well as the episodes with them), The picture is structured very well and showed the perfectly developed main characters with their moral dilemmas, personal choices, truths and psychological dramas. The actors are ALL simply superb: Jessica Chastain is a perfect match for the main heroine: her facial mimic expressions and hidden feelings are played fabulously well. Daniel Brühl is brilliant as ever as well as Johan Heldenbergh. It would be a great miss for me not to mention the supportive crew as well which plays no less if not better than the mains.
The film keeps you on your toes from the very beginning to the very end. It has many unpredictable turns on the way to the final note, positive and promising but we still feel the sadness as the war takes its deadly toll on everything that surrounds the happiness of life.
For me personally it was interesting to observe Antonina's inner work on trying to save her family and doing anything to please the German authority for the sake of her family protection. Her inner work deserves the medal on its own. It is hard t show love when the hatred is a more appropriate feeling. She manages to run it through her soul with the brilliance of an actress of a very high class. Antonina's love for animals and people is beyond any human understanding. She will do anything to save as many as she can for what ever price she has to pay for it, even the danger to her own family does not stop her. When we talk about one man woman creating a history this is that kind of story.
Would I recommend the film to watch? Absolute and definite yes for me here. You children will like it too as there is no much kindness shown to learn from.
It's a Roadshow show time again and it's Jam Factory #goldclass Village Cinemas and waiting for The Zookeeper's Wife screening for media. I loved the trailer, such a good bunch of actors! Now long black coffee - I love the attention we get at the gold class and a bit of Serge Lutens so I don't smell on teriyaki chicken from Noodle Box . It's a roadshow time! I missed them!
NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: AMADEUS NEW
website
review by Rouben Dickranian
Amadeus is a wonderful iconic play by Peter Shaffer’s of the lives of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri. It is a recording of a live performance from the National Theatre and the orchestral music is by the Southbank Sinfonia. The overall feeling you get while watching this at the cinema, is that you actually think you are there live. I feel the play should be renamed Salieri, rather than Amadeus and as the play revolves mainly around Salieri. However, I can understand why it is Amadeus as most people are not aware of Salieri or his works to promote this play. The play is about the claims of Antonio Salieri and how he manipulated and ultimate led to the demise of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The performance of the actors is really impressive and believable, especially Lucian Msamati who plays Salieri and who is a really wonderful and experienced actor. The ideology of why Salieri claims of killing Mozart is not only unexpected, but also understandable. Salieri and Mozart had different upbringings and these are visibly displayed and addressed during the performance, which you can see the strong impact it has on their lives. Mozart being a young, spoiled, impulsive and rude genius writer. Salieri on the other hand being brought up with a strong religious and poor background. When the two meet these attributes can be seen clearly and you know that they are on the road for collision. A really beautifully arranged play that should not be missed. I highly recommend watching it.
website
review by Rouben Dickranian
Amadeus is a wonderful iconic play by Peter Shaffer’s of the lives of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri. It is a recording of a live performance from the National Theatre and the orchestral music is by the Southbank Sinfonia. The overall feeling you get while watching this at the cinema, is that you actually think you are there live. I feel the play should be renamed Salieri, rather than Amadeus and as the play revolves mainly around Salieri. However, I can understand why it is Amadeus as most people are not aware of Salieri or his works to promote this play. The play is about the claims of Antonio Salieri and how he manipulated and ultimate led to the demise of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The performance of the actors is really impressive and believable, especially Lucian Msamati who plays Salieri and who is a really wonderful and experienced actor. The ideology of why Salieri claims of killing Mozart is not only unexpected, but also understandable. Salieri and Mozart had different upbringings and these are visibly displayed and addressed during the performance, which you can see the strong impact it has on their lives. Mozart being a young, spoiled, impulsive and rude genius writer. Salieri on the other hand being brought up with a strong religious and poor background. When the two meet these attributes can be seen clearly and you know that they are on the road for collision. A really beautifully arranged play that should not be missed. I highly recommend watching it.
VICEROY'S HOUSE NEW
website
RATE:7/10
The movie is about the final years of British Empire in power in India before the country was separated into three different states: India, East and West Pakistan.
It is done very well with the passion of the director who feels very much for the Indian history, Indian life style and culture as well as the truth about Indian people and their growth while establishing themselves as am independent nation. It is also about the conflict within the nation which roots were spread through the diversity of the religious beliefs inside one country as well as the painful methods of making peace where war is more likely to be freely flamed. The film focuses not only on the political views and the sides taken during that complex and controversial time in Indian days bygone but also on the lives of its people and how the political processes influenced men and women individually: both hindus and muslims. The film also captures the historical changes from many sides: from top government officials to the lowest classes in India.
The great work with archives took place while making the film - it is absolutely incredible what and this material was found and included in the movie. I pay my respect to those who have done such an impeccable investigation.
The monumental changes in history of nations as I mentioned above already reflect on the lives of common people : their lives get changed forever if not destroyed or taken to a different level.
I can only see that having the material in hands of such scale and such richness the film could have been done much better but it is as good as it gets.
website
RATE:7/10
The movie is about the final years of British Empire in power in India before the country was separated into three different states: India, East and West Pakistan.
It is done very well with the passion of the director who feels very much for the Indian history, Indian life style and culture as well as the truth about Indian people and their growth while establishing themselves as am independent nation. It is also about the conflict within the nation which roots were spread through the diversity of the religious beliefs inside one country as well as the painful methods of making peace where war is more likely to be freely flamed. The film focuses not only on the political views and the sides taken during that complex and controversial time in Indian days bygone but also on the lives of its people and how the political processes influenced men and women individually: both hindus and muslims. The film also captures the historical changes from many sides: from top government officials to the lowest classes in India.
The great work with archives took place while making the film - it is absolutely incredible what and this material was found and included in the movie. I pay my respect to those who have done such an impeccable investigation.
The monumental changes in history of nations as I mentioned above already reflect on the lives of common people : their lives get changed forever if not destroyed or taken to a different level.
I can only see that having the material in hands of such scale and such richness the film could have been done much better but it is as good as it gets.
RULES DON'T APPLY NEW
website
RATE: 8.5/10
Rules do not apply? The Hollywood has roles?
Apparently it did have rules before we knew it as it is now. It is 1958-64 and the era is depicted spectacularly well. It is romantic, yes, the girls will love this film. It is tragic: yes, it is in some way. The film depictures an actress who starts out in Hollywood, auditions and falls in love with her driver, She is young and naive, more to that little she knows about men and life in general. She is like an open and unread book: she clear conscious and pure intentions lead her the most wanted and unwanted place many young actresses would dream of but things start to take place in the way no one expected them to be. One, two and three and the movie would be a perfect Woody Allen's setup and plot development but it is not enough. The actors are more than brilliant - they are incredibly good. The story though lacks something only Woody would have: its irresistible charm.
Frank Forbes (to Marla): You're an exception. Rules don't apply to you.
Is it funny? Absolutely? Will you cry? Probably not but perhaps will get a bit emotional.
My other recommendation: so not read the reviews , go and watch the film with an open eyes and heart - you will love it!
website
RATE: 8.5/10
Rules do not apply? The Hollywood has roles?
Apparently it did have rules before we knew it as it is now. It is 1958-64 and the era is depicted spectacularly well. It is romantic, yes, the girls will love this film. It is tragic: yes, it is in some way. The film depictures an actress who starts out in Hollywood, auditions and falls in love with her driver, She is young and naive, more to that little she knows about men and life in general. She is like an open and unread book: she clear conscious and pure intentions lead her the most wanted and unwanted place many young actresses would dream of but things start to take place in the way no one expected them to be. One, two and three and the movie would be a perfect Woody Allen's setup and plot development but it is not enough. The actors are more than brilliant - they are incredibly good. The story though lacks something only Woody would have: its irresistible charm.
Frank Forbes (to Marla): You're an exception. Rules don't apply to you.
Is it funny? Absolutely? Will you cry? Probably not but perhaps will get a bit emotional.
My other recommendation: so not read the reviews , go and watch the film with an open eyes and heart - you will love it!
WHITELEY NEW
website
RATE: 8/10
The film is one fascinating journey through the life and artworks of Brett Whiteley, the most appraised Australian artist. If you know Brett's works you will totally enjoy this film; if you know less or nothing about his works you will be absolutely amazed. I was. I called him quietly: Australian Salvador Dali. His works are striking like a falling bright star, His life story is even more captivating than his art.
We go through Whiteley's personal letters where he does not hide his emotions, where he is raw and frank with himself and his addressee. We go through his notebooks also full of many surprises. We travel through his photographs and the photos of his family and friends. I fell in love with the personality with a full understanding that it (he) can poison me not only with all his extremes, his maximalism and his ability to live life t the fullest. His personality attracts as well as it bewitches you. So does his art as the highest expression of Him and a Being.
Together with the film makers we are able to watch the rare footage of the artist's life, see extraordinary archival interviews and much much more including the actual process of creation of his art,
I have not sen anything like this: Brett is unique and incomparable with any Australian artist after him.
Brett's breathtaking art career started when he won a scholarship to Italy. His art took him all the way to Europe, flourishing in London and New York and then coming back to Australia with already established name and his art "signature", his personal style.
As the pages of the film turn we find more and more about the artist and the love of his life, his muse and his ever lasting inspiration: his wife. The extremes of Brett's nature took him up to the top of the mountains of success as well as all the way down to catastrophes and mishaps and drugs use took a significant role in both ups and downs. The drugs created a genius out of him but the price was too high - the drugs took back what belonged to them: by raising his talent they destroyed his physical body. The story is more than banal but not less valuable lesson for many who step on the same road.
As I mentioned before Wendy his wife was in the focus of Brett's most beautiful art works: her nude forms appear fearlessly with lots of accompanying symbolism of man's body parts.
Thee legacy of Brett Whiteley is so significant many modern Australian artists still learn from his works, follow him and get inspired by him. The impact of his works on me was sensational. I recommend to watch the picture not only for the people who love and understand good quality art but also to those who want to learn and just starting their art voyages.
website
RATE: 8/10
The film is one fascinating journey through the life and artworks of Brett Whiteley, the most appraised Australian artist. If you know Brett's works you will totally enjoy this film; if you know less or nothing about his works you will be absolutely amazed. I was. I called him quietly: Australian Salvador Dali. His works are striking like a falling bright star, His life story is even more captivating than his art.
We go through Whiteley's personal letters where he does not hide his emotions, where he is raw and frank with himself and his addressee. We go through his notebooks also full of many surprises. We travel through his photographs and the photos of his family and friends. I fell in love with the personality with a full understanding that it (he) can poison me not only with all his extremes, his maximalism and his ability to live life t the fullest. His personality attracts as well as it bewitches you. So does his art as the highest expression of Him and a Being.
Together with the film makers we are able to watch the rare footage of the artist's life, see extraordinary archival interviews and much much more including the actual process of creation of his art,
I have not sen anything like this: Brett is unique and incomparable with any Australian artist after him.
Brett's breathtaking art career started when he won a scholarship to Italy. His art took him all the way to Europe, flourishing in London and New York and then coming back to Australia with already established name and his art "signature", his personal style.
As the pages of the film turn we find more and more about the artist and the love of his life, his muse and his ever lasting inspiration: his wife. The extremes of Brett's nature took him up to the top of the mountains of success as well as all the way down to catastrophes and mishaps and drugs use took a significant role in both ups and downs. The drugs created a genius out of him but the price was too high - the drugs took back what belonged to them: by raising his talent they destroyed his physical body. The story is more than banal but not less valuable lesson for many who step on the same road.
As I mentioned before Wendy his wife was in the focus of Brett's most beautiful art works: her nude forms appear fearlessly with lots of accompanying symbolism of man's body parts.
Thee legacy of Brett Whiteley is so significant many modern Australian artists still learn from his works, follow him and get inspired by him. The impact of his works on me was sensational. I recommend to watch the picture not only for the people who love and understand good quality art but also to those who want to learn and just starting their art voyages.
THE COUNTRY DOCTOR
website
RATE: 8/10
It is French, it is warm and it is romantic. It is light and it is not light at all.
It shows the hard work of the doctors who work in the country. Many doctors in the cities are faceless, not to us but for them we are faceless. The small country town community where everyone knows everyone brings up the challenges where the doctor gets attached to the patient as if it was his father or his daughter. It is touching and it has its own consequences.
The film reminded me of good French films from the past with good acting of Daniel Auteuil.
I also thought: that film was created by the person who knows doctor's profession very well with all its ups and downs. The film frankly shows the parts of life that we have never seen before: some are not that pleasant to follow to be honest but they exist and they are there. The film does not focus also on "easy" patients: they are all different - some are stubborn, some have their needs, some need a big teaching lesson.
We also learnt that the doctors get sick themselves. They also go to their own doctors. Doctors also fall in love no matter how hard they try to avoid it. The more you resist the feeling the deeper and the more intense experience you will get. The moment that you choose love after a long journey of "obstinate opposition" is beautiful in its self-revelation.
The last couple of comments: there is a soft and very intelligent humor as well as a gently developing drama. The soundtrack is amazing in this film as well as the actors - simply all of them! I also believe every man should take their best parts ( girlfriends and wives to see this film).
website
RATE: 8/10
It is French, it is warm and it is romantic. It is light and it is not light at all.
It shows the hard work of the doctors who work in the country. Many doctors in the cities are faceless, not to us but for them we are faceless. The small country town community where everyone knows everyone brings up the challenges where the doctor gets attached to the patient as if it was his father or his daughter. It is touching and it has its own consequences.
The film reminded me of good French films from the past with good acting of Daniel Auteuil.
I also thought: that film was created by the person who knows doctor's profession very well with all its ups and downs. The film frankly shows the parts of life that we have never seen before: some are not that pleasant to follow to be honest but they exist and they are there. The film does not focus also on "easy" patients: they are all different - some are stubborn, some have their needs, some need a big teaching lesson.
We also learnt that the doctors get sick themselves. They also go to their own doctors. Doctors also fall in love no matter how hard they try to avoid it. The more you resist the feeling the deeper and the more intense experience you will get. The moment that you choose love after a long journey of "obstinate opposition" is beautiful in its self-revelation.
The last couple of comments: there is a soft and very intelligent humor as well as a gently developing drama. The soundtrack is amazing in this film as well as the actors - simply all of them! I also believe every man should take their best parts ( girlfriends and wives to see this film).
GOING IN STYLE
website
RATE: 7/10
To be honest I expected much more from this film than I got. the plot is similar to The Golden Years (2016) film. It is done a bit sloppy. There are many parts that I simply would have leave in editing process. They seem :Unbelievable" and way too simple. However I gave it 7 only because of all the main characters that were played so irresistibly well: Morgan Freeman as Willie is fantastic: he always plays with his eyes only - this eyes talk more than his words or anything else. I consider him to be one of the most strong actors in Hollywood. I also can not miss the acting of Michael Caine that we all fall in love with after seeing the film Youth so many times. The third actor, Alan Arkin also plays very well. If it was not for such bad directing and if the plot could have been different it would be a real blockbuster. The film would be a good entertainment not only for the seniors but for the younger audience who would see the character features of their own fathers in these three characters.
Joe: These banks practically destroyed this country. They crushed a lot of people's dreams, and nothing ever happened to them. We three old guys, we hit a bank. We get away with it, we retire in dignity. Worst comes to the worst, we get caught, we get a bed, three meals a day, and better health care than we got now.
website
RATE: 7/10
To be honest I expected much more from this film than I got. the plot is similar to The Golden Years (2016) film. It is done a bit sloppy. There are many parts that I simply would have leave in editing process. They seem :Unbelievable" and way too simple. However I gave it 7 only because of all the main characters that were played so irresistibly well: Morgan Freeman as Willie is fantastic: he always plays with his eyes only - this eyes talk more than his words or anything else. I consider him to be one of the most strong actors in Hollywood. I also can not miss the acting of Michael Caine that we all fall in love with after seeing the film Youth so many times. The third actor, Alan Arkin also plays very well. If it was not for such bad directing and if the plot could have been different it would be a real blockbuster. The film would be a good entertainment not only for the seniors but for the younger audience who would see the character features of their own fathers in these three characters.
Joe: These banks practically destroyed this country. They crushed a lot of people's dreams, and nothing ever happened to them. We three old guys, we hit a bank. We get away with it, we retire in dignity. Worst comes to the worst, we get caught, we get a bed, three meals a day, and better health care than we got now.
Well it's movie time again and my refreshing Mount Franklin water and me are at the Village Cinemas Jam Factory @goldclass for media screening of Roadshow film Going In Style Movie . #ilovemorganfreeman
CHIPS
website
review by Bryanna Reynolds
Chips follows the lives of two cops (a rookie and an undercover FBI agent) who's lives become intertwined whilst investigating the corrupted highway patrol.
The film is easy to follow and you won't find yourself getting too lost in the narrative which is a positive of watching a comedy such as Chips.
For anyone who is a fan of Adam Sandlers comedic work you are sure to pick up similarities between it and Chips.
Audiences can expect a lot of motor vehicle related comedy and action all rolled into one.
The types of people who would enjoy Chips is varied due to the jokes throughout the film making reference to the original Chips which was a tv series. A younger audience would enjoy the film due to the non chalant and relatable jokes and fun loving characters involved in many action scenes. Although beware of some minor graphic scenes with body parts, maybe take a friend who can handle this type of comedy.
I would happily add this movie to my rainy day list as it is one to make you laugh and smile guaranteed once again another fabulous warner brothers film.
website
review by Bryanna Reynolds
Chips follows the lives of two cops (a rookie and an undercover FBI agent) who's lives become intertwined whilst investigating the corrupted highway patrol.
The film is easy to follow and you won't find yourself getting too lost in the narrative which is a positive of watching a comedy such as Chips.
For anyone who is a fan of Adam Sandlers comedic work you are sure to pick up similarities between it and Chips.
Audiences can expect a lot of motor vehicle related comedy and action all rolled into one.
The types of people who would enjoy Chips is varied due to the jokes throughout the film making reference to the original Chips which was a tv series. A younger audience would enjoy the film due to the non chalant and relatable jokes and fun loving characters involved in many action scenes. Although beware of some minor graphic scenes with body parts, maybe take a friend who can handle this type of comedy.
I would happily add this movie to my rainy day list as it is one to make you laugh and smile guaranteed once again another fabulous warner brothers film.
FREE FIRE
website
RATE: 9/10
This is one of the best films I have seen in the last year. Imagine: guns shoot non stop for the whole duration of the film and you do not get bored. It is s mixture of Pulp Fiction, Qunteen Tarrantino and Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. It is funny and it is very dynamic. You will not have time to breathe - believe me!
There will be blood, brains on the "car capote" and some broken bones but you will not get scared of disgusted . You sort of believe that these kind of people all deserve what they get.
The plot is as simple as two by two: two mafia gangs get together in the warehouse for a illegitimate business (of course).
On the way of survival the members of the two gangs do swear, do use cruel violence and even do use drugs. I have never seen so many dumb people under one roof and I had a great fun watching them.
The time is depictured brilliantly - 1978!
Everything and everyone respect each other. the deal is about to get to an end and the money and the product got exchanged hands. Suddenly someone says something (as they say it in the movies - offensive or else) and the guns start firing perhaps first by accident then in real: who would survive this game between the flying freely bullets: a girl, a Jewish or the bosses? Are you curious to find out - believe me it is so much fun you will not regret you went to see it.
website
RATE: 9/10
This is one of the best films I have seen in the last year. Imagine: guns shoot non stop for the whole duration of the film and you do not get bored. It is s mixture of Pulp Fiction, Qunteen Tarrantino and Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. It is funny and it is very dynamic. You will not have time to breathe - believe me!
There will be blood, brains on the "car capote" and some broken bones but you will not get scared of disgusted . You sort of believe that these kind of people all deserve what they get.
The plot is as simple as two by two: two mafia gangs get together in the warehouse for a illegitimate business (of course).
On the way of survival the members of the two gangs do swear, do use cruel violence and even do use drugs. I have never seen so many dumb people under one roof and I had a great fun watching them.
The time is depictured brilliantly - 1978!
Everything and everyone respect each other. the deal is about to get to an end and the money and the product got exchanged hands. Suddenly someone says something (as they say it in the movies - offensive or else) and the guns start firing perhaps first by accident then in real: who would survive this game between the flying freely bullets: a girl, a Jewish or the bosses? Are you curious to find out - believe me it is so much fun you will not regret you went to see it.
NT LIVE PRESETS: HEDDA GABLER
website
review by Bryanna Reynolds
Hedda Gabler was a wonderful modern reconstruction of the original play.
The film was a live streamed version of the play from the National Theatre of the same name. Starring Ruth Wilson she delivered a stellar performance that held you captivated throughout the play.
The narrative follows Hedda who is troubled by her life after returning from her honeymoon. She realises that she settled for marriage and is in limbo about her life and the choices that led her to where she is.
What was beautiful was the simplicity of the set used. It was raw and harsh with plain walls and a couple of chairs, flowers and a piano which made the actors performance shine.
One of the best scenes was when Hedda throws 100's of flowers across the stage and continues to staple them to the bare walls. It was a powerful performance and showed the heartache Hedda was feeling.
What was amazing about the concept of filming a play live was that it was just like you were at the theatre. The audience could be heard and were shown at the included intermission.
This kind of play/film is perfect for anyone who enjoys a trip to the theatre.
I look forward to seeing more plays/films in this recorded format from the National Theatre.
website
review by Bryanna Reynolds
Hedda Gabler was a wonderful modern reconstruction of the original play.
The film was a live streamed version of the play from the National Theatre of the same name. Starring Ruth Wilson she delivered a stellar performance that held you captivated throughout the play.
The narrative follows Hedda who is troubled by her life after returning from her honeymoon. She realises that she settled for marriage and is in limbo about her life and the choices that led her to where she is.
What was beautiful was the simplicity of the set used. It was raw and harsh with plain walls and a couple of chairs, flowers and a piano which made the actors performance shine.
One of the best scenes was when Hedda throws 100's of flowers across the stage and continues to staple them to the bare walls. It was a powerful performance and showed the heartache Hedda was feeling.
What was amazing about the concept of filming a play live was that it was just like you were at the theatre. The audience could be heard and were shown at the included intermission.
This kind of play/film is perfect for anyone who enjoys a trip to the theatre.
I look forward to seeing more plays/films in this recorded format from the National Theatre.
THE INNOCENTS
website
RATE: 10/10
The films is a powerful story about the choices we make, about the paths that we choose, about the things we can not change and the things we can.
The story line is simple to tell in one sentence: a young doctor who works for French Red Cross in Poland in 1945 finds out that many of the nuns at the local monastery are pregnant and are about to give births. The story is based on the true events that took place on Polish territory that was occupied by Germans , then Russians and the aftermaths is painful and tragic. The secret of pregnancies can not be revealed anywhere as the monastery might face the shut down. In her attempt to cover the rather delicate situation the head of the monastery, "the mother" takes the path that creates even more problems, results in deaths and suicides. If you want to go to a really scary and blood stopping thriller do not go to the si-fi or fantasy - the real world has it all for you on the plate with the blue edge.
The young doctor Mathilde portrayed by Lou de Laâge can keep the secret however the secret has its own ways to develop who has to know about it and who has not. The psychological drama reaches it culmination when the newborns start to disappear. Although the monastery is soaking in prays, candles and angelic chants the nuns can not find the right decision no matter how they ask God to hep them. God is silent (God is in Silence BTW). None of their messages or calls get answered by their Lord they worship so much. the solution comes so easy and so spontaneous from the brave doctor who tries to save the lives of not many nuns and their children left alive. She is the light in their narrow window of faith. She does not pray - she smokes, she does not pray - she sins. One wonders: why god still hears her and answers her questions? There are no more secrets now to hide... and so many lives are saved too. There is nothing else left to fix and the crime that can not be punished will only suffer from its own guilty conscience. May be the world IS perfect and innocent in its divine creation? May be almost!
There are more on to comment though: no surprise war in every country means rapes by soldiers of the female civilians occupied. It is always like this - even now, it WAS always like this . Despite of that it is an eye opening for many to see this abuse taking place on the screen so casually which makes it even more disgusting. Now if they tell you in the news the army is liberating some country read between the lines: there are massive rapes taking place.
The film is dark but it brings some hope in after the "24 hours of doubt"
website
RATE: 10/10
The films is a powerful story about the choices we make, about the paths that we choose, about the things we can not change and the things we can.
The story line is simple to tell in one sentence: a young doctor who works for French Red Cross in Poland in 1945 finds out that many of the nuns at the local monastery are pregnant and are about to give births. The story is based on the true events that took place on Polish territory that was occupied by Germans , then Russians and the aftermaths is painful and tragic. The secret of pregnancies can not be revealed anywhere as the monastery might face the shut down. In her attempt to cover the rather delicate situation the head of the monastery, "the mother" takes the path that creates even more problems, results in deaths and suicides. If you want to go to a really scary and blood stopping thriller do not go to the si-fi or fantasy - the real world has it all for you on the plate with the blue edge.
The young doctor Mathilde portrayed by Lou de Laâge can keep the secret however the secret has its own ways to develop who has to know about it and who has not. The psychological drama reaches it culmination when the newborns start to disappear. Although the monastery is soaking in prays, candles and angelic chants the nuns can not find the right decision no matter how they ask God to hep them. God is silent (God is in Silence BTW). None of their messages or calls get answered by their Lord they worship so much. the solution comes so easy and so spontaneous from the brave doctor who tries to save the lives of not many nuns and their children left alive. She is the light in their narrow window of faith. She does not pray - she smokes, she does not pray - she sins. One wonders: why god still hears her and answers her questions? There are no more secrets now to hide... and so many lives are saved too. There is nothing else left to fix and the crime that can not be punished will only suffer from its own guilty conscience. May be the world IS perfect and innocent in its divine creation? May be almost!
There are more on to comment though: no surprise war in every country means rapes by soldiers of the female civilians occupied. It is always like this - even now, it WAS always like this . Despite of that it is an eye opening for many to see this abuse taking place on the screen so casually which makes it even more disgusting. Now if they tell you in the news the army is liberating some country read between the lines: there are massive rapes taking place.
The film is dark but it brings some hope in after the "24 hours of doubt"
THINGS TO COME
website
RATE: 9/10
The film is very gentle. I found it t be perhaps one of the best roles Isabelle Huppert played. She seemed so distance from us, though so close. We connect with her though can not grasp her completely. She plays Nathalie Chazeaux ,a Uni philosophy teacher. She has a good family with two children and a husband. They seem so similar in their life views. They are both philosophy teachers. They go on vacation to their seaside house. Life looks almost perfect. We only suspect that this is not all to what it is on the surface. So the further truth opens up bit by bit. Natalie has an admirer, her ex-student, but their relationship are platonic. Natalie has a sick mother who calls her even when Natalie is teaching at school interrupting her classes with day after day caprices. We do not suspect what layers on truth we are about to discover about the main character and find ourselves being the silent observers of Chazeaux's life: tragic and comic, some light, some deep, some naive, some sophisticated. Natalie's life suddenly turns into something that we want to continuously follow. I could not understand what attracted me so much to the character portrayed by Isabelle: may be her inner grace and dignity. If I wanted to be a philosophy teacher one day this is how I would like to be: the Isabelle-way.
May be I almost got it: like cats, who have 8 lives we sometimes live so many in one...
website
RATE: 9/10
The film is very gentle. I found it t be perhaps one of the best roles Isabelle Huppert played. She seemed so distance from us, though so close. We connect with her though can not grasp her completely. She plays Nathalie Chazeaux ,a Uni philosophy teacher. She has a good family with two children and a husband. They seem so similar in their life views. They are both philosophy teachers. They go on vacation to their seaside house. Life looks almost perfect. We only suspect that this is not all to what it is on the surface. So the further truth opens up bit by bit. Natalie has an admirer, her ex-student, but their relationship are platonic. Natalie has a sick mother who calls her even when Natalie is teaching at school interrupting her classes with day after day caprices. We do not suspect what layers on truth we are about to discover about the main character and find ourselves being the silent observers of Chazeaux's life: tragic and comic, some light, some deep, some naive, some sophisticated. Natalie's life suddenly turns into something that we want to continuously follow. I could not understand what attracted me so much to the character portrayed by Isabelle: may be her inner grace and dignity. If I wanted to be a philosophy teacher one day this is how I would like to be: the Isabelle-way.
May be I almost got it: like cats, who have 8 lives we sometimes live so many in one...
COLOSSAL
website
RATE: 6.5/10
What is Colossal? When this word is pronounced we immediately start thinking about ancient architecture and sculptures of ancient gods who once were living on our planet. Colossus was a God of the sun Helios. The image of him was erected in the form of a huge statue - as we remember from history in the city of Rhodes, on the Greek island. The statue was considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It is not there anymore if you care (and IMHO we all should!).
But let's not talk about the past and the lost history; we now have the film in front of us named by the similar title. Colossal means huge in size, extend and gigantic. How is that "Colossal" connected to the main character of the film, fragile girl Gloria played by Anne Hathaway? The connection seems obvious from the first glance when you watch the film: there are monsters and robots of the size three time higher than the tallest skyscraper on Earth. They are real or so they do destroy Korea and all that jazz... I firstly could not get it: a girl from NY thrown out of her apartment by her limited minded boyfriend who tries to help her with her drinking problem. She goes back to the town where she spent her childhood... to see that she is a giant monster manipulator? What? Do I still have my brain in place? And may be it is me only who see the monsters walking down the streets in Korea, smashing people and fighting with each other... But no, all the other people in the cinema are laughing - they obviously see them too! Then I suddenly got the idea and the film's puzzle got into place.
It is a fantastic idea to represent your though forms in such way... It is an excellent way of solving your addictions and life issues by connecting to your past and understanding how the energy exchange works. The concept IS BRILLIANT!
Although the idea was amazing the film did not work as a whole story. I could not get what it was lacking: a good direction or just everything. The music was good, the actors were all marvelous but there was something very important missing and perhaps it was the core.
The film is a good fun to watch nevertheless!
website
RATE: 6.5/10
What is Colossal? When this word is pronounced we immediately start thinking about ancient architecture and sculptures of ancient gods who once were living on our planet. Colossus was a God of the sun Helios. The image of him was erected in the form of a huge statue - as we remember from history in the city of Rhodes, on the Greek island. The statue was considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It is not there anymore if you care (and IMHO we all should!).
But let's not talk about the past and the lost history; we now have the film in front of us named by the similar title. Colossal means huge in size, extend and gigantic. How is that "Colossal" connected to the main character of the film, fragile girl Gloria played by Anne Hathaway? The connection seems obvious from the first glance when you watch the film: there are monsters and robots of the size three time higher than the tallest skyscraper on Earth. They are real or so they do destroy Korea and all that jazz... I firstly could not get it: a girl from NY thrown out of her apartment by her limited minded boyfriend who tries to help her with her drinking problem. She goes back to the town where she spent her childhood... to see that she is a giant monster manipulator? What? Do I still have my brain in place? And may be it is me only who see the monsters walking down the streets in Korea, smashing people and fighting with each other... But no, all the other people in the cinema are laughing - they obviously see them too! Then I suddenly got the idea and the film's puzzle got into place.
It is a fantastic idea to represent your though forms in such way... It is an excellent way of solving your addictions and life issues by connecting to your past and understanding how the energy exchange works. The concept IS BRILLIANT!
Although the idea was amazing the film did not work as a whole story. I could not get what it was lacking: a good direction or just everything. The music was good, the actors were all marvelous but there was something very important missing and perhaps it was the core.
The film is a good fun to watch nevertheless!
BERLIN SYNDROME
website
RATE: 9/10
The Berlin Syndrome is your one perfectly done thriller. A young Australian woman, Clare travels in Germany and meets an attractive young man Andi in the streets of Berlin. They immediately fall in love with each other and their passion seems so perfect with only one tone of worry that is so vividly shown through the movements of the actors and the soundtrack as if something dramatic is just about to happen. Clare gets locked inside Andi's apartment with no possible escape. She is locked by her new boyfriend. She loves him , her feelings are obvious, but she is scared of him and his actions. the events develop so quickly she starts to loose her hope to get out of her new prison ever alive. Andi is handsome and (surprise!) he is a school teacher where no one have a slight guess about his pervert actions. His mother left the family long time ago: Andi and his father were very close. But where did Andi learn to do such criminal things? His desire to keep the woman locked so she does not escape like that happened with his mother would be the best explanation if his deeply damaged psyche. The apogee is reached when the prey can not live suffocating without the fresh air, people and freedom anymore and the hunter can not keep her inside without getting noticed. Clare has only one day, one chance and one decision to make to get out of her jailhouse. She has to act pre-calculated and be precise. Will she get this chance without hurting herself and the others?. Will the cruel trapper be caught and punished?.. The film has definitely created an atmosphere of fear and suspense. the camera work is brilliant and the blue-green colors selected for the background perfectly fit the situation. It is mesmerizing, captivating and very well done picture. It is so realistic I caught myself thinking: this is how I would imagine the story would develop in Berlin - exactly like this!
website
RATE: 9/10
The Berlin Syndrome is your one perfectly done thriller. A young Australian woman, Clare travels in Germany and meets an attractive young man Andi in the streets of Berlin. They immediately fall in love with each other and their passion seems so perfect with only one tone of worry that is so vividly shown through the movements of the actors and the soundtrack as if something dramatic is just about to happen. Clare gets locked inside Andi's apartment with no possible escape. She is locked by her new boyfriend. She loves him , her feelings are obvious, but she is scared of him and his actions. the events develop so quickly she starts to loose her hope to get out of her new prison ever alive. Andi is handsome and (surprise!) he is a school teacher where no one have a slight guess about his pervert actions. His mother left the family long time ago: Andi and his father were very close. But where did Andi learn to do such criminal things? His desire to keep the woman locked so she does not escape like that happened with his mother would be the best explanation if his deeply damaged psyche. The apogee is reached when the prey can not live suffocating without the fresh air, people and freedom anymore and the hunter can not keep her inside without getting noticed. Clare has only one day, one chance and one decision to make to get out of her jailhouse. She has to act pre-calculated and be precise. Will she get this chance without hurting herself and the others?. Will the cruel trapper be caught and punished?.. The film has definitely created an atmosphere of fear and suspense. the camera work is brilliant and the blue-green colors selected for the background perfectly fit the situation. It is mesmerizing, captivating and very well done picture. It is so realistic I caught myself thinking: this is how I would imagine the story would develop in Berlin - exactly like this!
A SILENT VOICE
website
RATE: 8/10
This is another amazing Japanese anime that reminded me "Your Name" released recently. The story like concentrates on the female student who has impaired hearing. It touches so many topics including bulling at school, shame, the attempt to suicide, love, drama, guilt, forgiveness and just generally the relationship between students. It is made so delicately and so gracefully you melt inside the pale colors of the paintbrush of the animator. It is highly artistic with lots of beautiful details included in the film. the plot is unpredictable and keeps surprising you minute after minute. Considering the relatively serious topics revealed the anime is done with lots of care and tenderness. The characters are well developed and their growth and maturity is obvious. If you love Japanese anime this is a gem of gems to watch - you almost forget that it is not real.
website
RATE: 8/10
This is another amazing Japanese anime that reminded me "Your Name" released recently. The story like concentrates on the female student who has impaired hearing. It touches so many topics including bulling at school, shame, the attempt to suicide, love, drama, guilt, forgiveness and just generally the relationship between students. It is made so delicately and so gracefully you melt inside the pale colors of the paintbrush of the animator. It is highly artistic with lots of beautiful details included in the film. the plot is unpredictable and keeps surprising you minute after minute. Considering the relatively serious topics revealed the anime is done with lots of care and tenderness. The characters are well developed and their growth and maturity is obvious. If you love Japanese anime this is a gem of gems to watch - you almost forget that it is not real.
NOVA ICONIC: ARIA (1987)
website
RATE: 8/10
Aria film (1987) is screened at Cinema Nova as part of Nova Iconic Festival.
The film consists of 10 short movies with the soundtrack from the famous operas and music pieces and almost no text. It was an original idea. The directors include such names as Ken Russell, Jean-Luc Godard, Robert Altman, Bruce Beresford, and Nicolas Roeg . The soundtrack features Vivaldi, Bach, Wagner and many more. The full list of music can be followed by this link. It would be way too long to write here. I would only like to tell about the artistic side of film. I found the short films t be spectacular, although the rate is significantly low on IMDB for some reason. The films are sensual to put it in a soft way. It was almost impossible to imagine such movie shown back in 1987 say, in Moscow where we all still did not know that sex even existed. It is touching your most deep desires and inner core of physical You. the directors are great. I felt sorry nor Woody Allen nor Fellini could not be part of the project. It worth watching because it does not loose its beauty wuth years: it is still remains classical in their best traditions. It is the film made for the sake of art and nothing else. It is surreal for that reason also. The brilliant actors include Buck Henry, Beverly D'Angelo, Elizabeth Hurley, Briget Fonda, Tilda Swinton, and John Hurt . If you like art sexual and erotic this is your movie to watch!
website
RATE: 8/10
Aria film (1987) is screened at Cinema Nova as part of Nova Iconic Festival.
The film consists of 10 short movies with the soundtrack from the famous operas and music pieces and almost no text. It was an original idea. The directors include such names as Ken Russell, Jean-Luc Godard, Robert Altman, Bruce Beresford, and Nicolas Roeg . The soundtrack features Vivaldi, Bach, Wagner and many more. The full list of music can be followed by this link. It would be way too long to write here. I would only like to tell about the artistic side of film. I found the short films t be spectacular, although the rate is significantly low on IMDB for some reason. The films are sensual to put it in a soft way. It was almost impossible to imagine such movie shown back in 1987 say, in Moscow where we all still did not know that sex even existed. It is touching your most deep desires and inner core of physical You. the directors are great. I felt sorry nor Woody Allen nor Fellini could not be part of the project. It worth watching because it does not loose its beauty wuth years: it is still remains classical in their best traditions. It is the film made for the sake of art and nothing else. It is surreal for that reason also. The brilliant actors include Buck Henry, Beverly D'Angelo, Elizabeth Hurley, Briget Fonda, Tilda Swinton, and John Hurt . If you like art sexual and erotic this is your movie to watch!
GHOST IN THE SHELL
website
RATE: 8/10
The choice of cast in this film is immaculate. The leading role is played brilliantly by Scarlett who is everything in this film. The digital graphics, camera and cinematography in this film are beyond any possible imagination: it is spectacular. I would go and see the film again only for the sake of technical side of it. The story is not as simple as you would expect: it is twisted. Our expectations were low . The trailer was too good and we thought: probably not! But it is quite good. The future megalopolis shown is scary and dark: the advertising is everywhere and it is superb but the amount and the scale of it is frightening. The robots, the costumes are simply glorious. There are some downfalls related to script that we found though: the characters are a bit plane: they are either bad or good, there is nothing in between and to say it in the soft way: the text for the characters is remarkably primitive. I trust it will be forgotten in the next 3 months which is sad... I gave the film a pretty high score just for the actors and for the tech.
website
RATE: 8/10
The choice of cast in this film is immaculate. The leading role is played brilliantly by Scarlett who is everything in this film. The digital graphics, camera and cinematography in this film are beyond any possible imagination: it is spectacular. I would go and see the film again only for the sake of technical side of it. The story is not as simple as you would expect: it is twisted. Our expectations were low . The trailer was too good and we thought: probably not! But it is quite good. The future megalopolis shown is scary and dark: the advertising is everywhere and it is superb but the amount and the scale of it is frightening. The robots, the costumes are simply glorious. There are some downfalls related to script that we found though: the characters are a bit plane: they are either bad or good, there is nothing in between and to say it in the soft way: the text for the characters is remarkably primitive. I trust it will be forgotten in the next 3 months which is sad... I gave the film a pretty high score just for the actors and for the tech.
At the media screening of Ghost In The Shell at Village Cinemas Crown // run by Paramount Pictures
film in cinemas 30 March . Love Scarlett Johansson ? Me too!
film in cinemas 30 March . Love Scarlett Johansson ? Me too!
DENIAL
website
RATE: 8/10
Will I ever forget Deborah Lipstadt (Rachel Weisz) jogging in London and stopping to gaze upon the statue of "Boadicea and Her Daughters" on Westminster Pier. Boadicea is famous as a warrior queen who led an unsuccessful uprising against the Romans. Yes, the film is about a powerful but fragile, warrior but shocked with the other person's lies woman. She is confused but firm with her truth. It is not necessary that the truth always win no it is always that the most powerful arguer wins. It is also not necessary that the weakest looses nor it always that the justice takes place. We all know the outcomes of the court are unpredictable so does the movie: it is emotional to hear the final verdict of the judge.
Deborah Lipstadt: Now, some people are saying that the result of this trial will threaten free speech. I don't accept that. I'm not attacking free speech. On the contrary, I've been defending it against someone who wanted to abuse it. Freedom of speech means you can say whatever you want. What you can't do is lie and expect not to be held accountable for it. Not all opinions are equal. And some things happened, just like we say they do. Slavery happened, the Black Death happened. The Earth is round, the ice caps are melting, and Elvis is not alive.
Richard Rampton: They're a strange thing consciences. Trouble is, what feels best isn't necessarily what works best.
Deborah Lipstadt: Holocaust denial rests on four basic assertions. Number 1: That there was never any systematic or organized attempt by the Nazis to kill all of Europe's Jews. Number 2: That the numbers are far fewer than five or six million. Number 3: That there were no gas chambers or specially built extermination facilities. Number 4: That the Holocaust is therefore a myth invented by Jews to get themselves financial compensation and to further the fortunes of the State of Israel. War, the deniers say, is a bloody business. There's nothing special about the Jews, they're not unique in their suffering. They're just everyday casualties of war. What's the fuss?
Deborah Lipstadt: Okay, and here's another question, how do we know the Holocaust happened? Seriously. I'm asking. How do we prove it? Photographic evidence? Not one person in this room or outside it has ever seen a photograph of a Jew inside a gas chamber. You know why? Because the Germans made sure that none were ever taken. So how do we know? How do we *know* that so many were murdered? So what's the proof? Where's the proof? How strong is it?
Deborah Lipstadt: What did you think, Anthony?
Anthony Julius: What did I think? I thought it was the most boring morning we've had in court so far.
Deborah Lipstadt: My God, you love to be contrary.
Anthony Julius: Well, the man's an anti-Semite and a racist. It's like having shit on your shoe. You wipe it off. You don't study it.
I love these quotes - they tell you more about the film than any review would. This IS the film to watch for any civilized person
website
RATE: 8/10
Will I ever forget Deborah Lipstadt (Rachel Weisz) jogging in London and stopping to gaze upon the statue of "Boadicea and Her Daughters" on Westminster Pier. Boadicea is famous as a warrior queen who led an unsuccessful uprising against the Romans. Yes, the film is about a powerful but fragile, warrior but shocked with the other person's lies woman. She is confused but firm with her truth. It is not necessary that the truth always win no it is always that the most powerful arguer wins. It is also not necessary that the weakest looses nor it always that the justice takes place. We all know the outcomes of the court are unpredictable so does the movie: it is emotional to hear the final verdict of the judge.
Deborah Lipstadt: Now, some people are saying that the result of this trial will threaten free speech. I don't accept that. I'm not attacking free speech. On the contrary, I've been defending it against someone who wanted to abuse it. Freedom of speech means you can say whatever you want. What you can't do is lie and expect not to be held accountable for it. Not all opinions are equal. And some things happened, just like we say they do. Slavery happened, the Black Death happened. The Earth is round, the ice caps are melting, and Elvis is not alive.
Richard Rampton: They're a strange thing consciences. Trouble is, what feels best isn't necessarily what works best.
Deborah Lipstadt: Holocaust denial rests on four basic assertions. Number 1: That there was never any systematic or organized attempt by the Nazis to kill all of Europe's Jews. Number 2: That the numbers are far fewer than five or six million. Number 3: That there were no gas chambers or specially built extermination facilities. Number 4: That the Holocaust is therefore a myth invented by Jews to get themselves financial compensation and to further the fortunes of the State of Israel. War, the deniers say, is a bloody business. There's nothing special about the Jews, they're not unique in their suffering. They're just everyday casualties of war. What's the fuss?
Deborah Lipstadt: Okay, and here's another question, how do we know the Holocaust happened? Seriously. I'm asking. How do we prove it? Photographic evidence? Not one person in this room or outside it has ever seen a photograph of a Jew inside a gas chamber. You know why? Because the Germans made sure that none were ever taken. So how do we know? How do we *know* that so many were murdered? So what's the proof? Where's the proof? How strong is it?
Deborah Lipstadt: What did you think, Anthony?
Anthony Julius: What did I think? I thought it was the most boring morning we've had in court so far.
Deborah Lipstadt: My God, you love to be contrary.
Anthony Julius: Well, the man's an anti-Semite and a racist. It's like having shit on your shoe. You wipe it off. You don't study it.
I love these quotes - they tell you more about the film than any review would. This IS the film to watch for any civilized person
ZACH'S CEREMONY
website
RATE: 8/10
Zach's life was filmed since he was 10 years old. He belongs to a very interesting nationality/tribe of native Australian people who live in beautiful Northern territories. He is close to 16 now and he sees the changes start taking place in his mind, body and spirit. Teenager-ing is difficult. Finding out who you are is even harder but unless WE know we will always be on the search. The sooner we find out the easier life will seem, the happier it will be. It is happening for Zach now. He is in the process of self discovery - the most fascinating journey of all if not the only one journey here on this plane. Zach is challenged not only by his transition from a boy to a man but also by embracing both: modern world and his ancient history, traditions and culture. It is more like past and future meeting now inside of you, at the present. It is also fascinating to discover that you ARE that tree which roots are drinking the knowledge of the generations passed and spreading its leaves open to the sun of the future generations to come. The discovery can be a process and it can happen in one day - both ways it is exciting. Zach's sacred ceremony takes place in his tribe surrounded by the elders, his parents and his friends and relatives. The film shows only parts of the ceremony kept as an ancient traditions by the wise-man of the tribe. I loved the faces of the people I saw: open and innocent; I loved their relationship with their culture and how they treat each other. It is an interesting movie to learn more about different culture as well as to make some important choices for yourself. I am sure you will love watching it.
website
RATE: 8/10
Zach's life was filmed since he was 10 years old. He belongs to a very interesting nationality/tribe of native Australian people who live in beautiful Northern territories. He is close to 16 now and he sees the changes start taking place in his mind, body and spirit. Teenager-ing is difficult. Finding out who you are is even harder but unless WE know we will always be on the search. The sooner we find out the easier life will seem, the happier it will be. It is happening for Zach now. He is in the process of self discovery - the most fascinating journey of all if not the only one journey here on this plane. Zach is challenged not only by his transition from a boy to a man but also by embracing both: modern world and his ancient history, traditions and culture. It is more like past and future meeting now inside of you, at the present. It is also fascinating to discover that you ARE that tree which roots are drinking the knowledge of the generations passed and spreading its leaves open to the sun of the future generations to come. The discovery can be a process and it can happen in one day - both ways it is exciting. Zach's sacred ceremony takes place in his tribe surrounded by the elders, his parents and his friends and relatives. The film shows only parts of the ceremony kept as an ancient traditions by the wise-man of the tribe. I loved the faces of the people I saw: open and innocent; I loved their relationship with their culture and how they treat each other. It is an interesting movie to learn more about different culture as well as to make some important choices for yourself. I am sure you will love watching it.
THE POWER RANGERS
website
review by Benjamin Newall
The Power Rangers - movie review.
Was this movie made to inspire a new generation to follow the life and times of the Power Rangers or was it made to give the generation who grew up with the original Power Rangers a movie they could enjoy now that they have grown up.
Expectations of this latest movie in the Power Rangers franchise were high, with a fair bit of nervousness on the part of those of us who had loved it as children.
The Power Rangers first took to our TV screens in 1993 with the first movie coming out in 1995. There have being several iterations of the Power Rangers but all stemmed from the original Mighty Morphing series. Twenty four years later and the Rangers are going back to the start again but with a darker, grittier atmosphere.
The relatively young cast had big boots to fill and managed to do it with style. They played teenagers with back stories and issues who are thrown into something unexpected and need to come together. Now if all went to plan and it was a happy flick, they would join forces, put on the suits and all would be sweet. Fortunately however this isn’t really that kind of story.
I am sure that I was not the only one in the cinema who was waiting to see when the new team would be seen in their new suits. It takes quite a devastating lesson for the teens to learn what it means to come together, and an indication that this really is a very different Rangers movie from the rest.
The young cast are guided masterfully by talented Emmy award winning actor Bryan Cranston in the role of Zordon and Elizabeth Banks as the most evil Rita Repulsa. These two seasoned actors brought realism to the characters. For the first time we see a different side of Zordon that is not the all-round nice guy, but is at times selfish and self-centred, making him actually seem more real.
As for Rita, well this is one Bad Ass B***h, who looks super creepy and has no care for human life. She is cruel, ugly and disgusting and gives the Rangers a challenge of great proportion. Being the original Green Ranger (in this storyline anyway) and the reason all the original Rangers died, the writers have made sure the audience know from the start just what Rita is capable of.
However the movie had some weaker moments in my view. If you are a big fan of Pink, Yellow and Black ranger you may be disappointed by the lack of back story provided for them. This can obviously be picked up in later movies giving them the same depth as Blue and Red ranger. That is something we will have to wait and see.
Of course like any 90s kid show being made into a movie there are those corny moments when you think that they put that in just because they had to, not because they thought it would work. None of these minor matters take away from a Power Rangers movie that my generation can appreciate.
There was a really clever use of comedy elements which provided a number of good laughs. Many of these were courtesy of the film “Alpha 5” voiced by the talented American comedian Bill Hader. Quick wit, amusing commentary and some added attitude make Alpha 5 one of the most changed characters in this reboot. It is definitely for the better.
Now you are probably still wondering ‘What about the Zords?’ Well let’s just say that the first time I saw them come out and the Mega Zord rise I got chills, and I want you to feel the same. Special effects have come a long way, and I was not disappointed by the changes they have made with the Zords or with the Mega Zord. It is different, yes, which may lead to some fans being disappointed and thinking they should have stuck to the original, but it did work for this reboot, absolutely.
Though if you did not grow up with the original and have never watched the original, you may have to go home and google what a couple of the Zords where in terms of creatures as Blue and Black you may be scratching your head.
I think this movie has something for most people. I think for parents of the kids who watched the original, they may think the same thing they did two decades ago and have no interest what so ever. I would also be cautious taking any children under the age of 13, as some points of the film could be quite scary for them. Please remember this is a much more grown up version of the G rated show still playing on TV for kids.
So after considering the story, the actors the various effects and character development I would comfortably give it an 8 out of 10 or 4 Star rating. And if you are an avid fan of the original I would urge you to go in with an open mind and enjoy what is the same but also what has evolved.
And like the movie here is a little treat at the end. Don’t leave when the credits start to roll, as with all Marvel films it will be worth hanging around for, especially if you know the original and were waiting to see a certain teen in the mix.
website
review by Benjamin Newall
The Power Rangers - movie review.
Was this movie made to inspire a new generation to follow the life and times of the Power Rangers or was it made to give the generation who grew up with the original Power Rangers a movie they could enjoy now that they have grown up.
Expectations of this latest movie in the Power Rangers franchise were high, with a fair bit of nervousness on the part of those of us who had loved it as children.
The Power Rangers first took to our TV screens in 1993 with the first movie coming out in 1995. There have being several iterations of the Power Rangers but all stemmed from the original Mighty Morphing series. Twenty four years later and the Rangers are going back to the start again but with a darker, grittier atmosphere.
The relatively young cast had big boots to fill and managed to do it with style. They played teenagers with back stories and issues who are thrown into something unexpected and need to come together. Now if all went to plan and it was a happy flick, they would join forces, put on the suits and all would be sweet. Fortunately however this isn’t really that kind of story.
I am sure that I was not the only one in the cinema who was waiting to see when the new team would be seen in their new suits. It takes quite a devastating lesson for the teens to learn what it means to come together, and an indication that this really is a very different Rangers movie from the rest.
The young cast are guided masterfully by talented Emmy award winning actor Bryan Cranston in the role of Zordon and Elizabeth Banks as the most evil Rita Repulsa. These two seasoned actors brought realism to the characters. For the first time we see a different side of Zordon that is not the all-round nice guy, but is at times selfish and self-centred, making him actually seem more real.
As for Rita, well this is one Bad Ass B***h, who looks super creepy and has no care for human life. She is cruel, ugly and disgusting and gives the Rangers a challenge of great proportion. Being the original Green Ranger (in this storyline anyway) and the reason all the original Rangers died, the writers have made sure the audience know from the start just what Rita is capable of.
However the movie had some weaker moments in my view. If you are a big fan of Pink, Yellow and Black ranger you may be disappointed by the lack of back story provided for them. This can obviously be picked up in later movies giving them the same depth as Blue and Red ranger. That is something we will have to wait and see.
Of course like any 90s kid show being made into a movie there are those corny moments when you think that they put that in just because they had to, not because they thought it would work. None of these minor matters take away from a Power Rangers movie that my generation can appreciate.
There was a really clever use of comedy elements which provided a number of good laughs. Many of these were courtesy of the film “Alpha 5” voiced by the talented American comedian Bill Hader. Quick wit, amusing commentary and some added attitude make Alpha 5 one of the most changed characters in this reboot. It is definitely for the better.
Now you are probably still wondering ‘What about the Zords?’ Well let’s just say that the first time I saw them come out and the Mega Zord rise I got chills, and I want you to feel the same. Special effects have come a long way, and I was not disappointed by the changes they have made with the Zords or with the Mega Zord. It is different, yes, which may lead to some fans being disappointed and thinking they should have stuck to the original, but it did work for this reboot, absolutely.
Though if you did not grow up with the original and have never watched the original, you may have to go home and google what a couple of the Zords where in terms of creatures as Blue and Black you may be scratching your head.
I think this movie has something for most people. I think for parents of the kids who watched the original, they may think the same thing they did two decades ago and have no interest what so ever. I would also be cautious taking any children under the age of 13, as some points of the film could be quite scary for them. Please remember this is a much more grown up version of the G rated show still playing on TV for kids.
So after considering the story, the actors the various effects and character development I would comfortably give it an 8 out of 10 or 4 Star rating. And if you are an avid fan of the original I would urge you to go in with an open mind and enjoy what is the same but also what has evolved.
And like the movie here is a little treat at the end. Don’t leave when the credits start to roll, as with all Marvel films it will be worth hanging around for, especially if you know the original and were waiting to see a certain teen in the mix.
SMURFS: THE LOST VILLAGE
website
review by Natalia Aksenova
Smurfs: The Lost Village
I went to see the film “Smurfs: The Lost Village”on special screening day 26 of March 2017 in Southland and I found the event was very attractive and enjoyable for kids.
We saw character Smurfs, the clown with balloons and fairies.
The film was beautifully made. We liked songs, colours and details on animation.
The Smurfs village is colourful land. In these village lives one blond girl Smurfette and another Smurfs.
The evil wizard Gargamel plans to control and round up all Smurfs. He wants to get the Smurfs from lost village. He got an idea to pour all Smurfs into a boiling pot that will render him all powerful.
Smurfs Brainy, Clumsy and Hefty and blond girl Smurfette decided to go to find the Lost village. Their main intention to tell the Smurfs about dangerous plan of Gargamel.
The Smurfs’ adventures include a harrowing white-water rafting chase, as well as encounters with dragonfly insects, fantastic plants and glowing bunny rabbits.
Their latest adventure takes the Smurfs on a race through the Forbidden Forest filled with magical creatures to find a lost village before the evil wizard Gargamel does.
The animation film “Smurfs: The Lost Village”absolutely are for kids and parents.
website
review by Natalia Aksenova
Smurfs: The Lost Village
I went to see the film “Smurfs: The Lost Village”on special screening day 26 of March 2017 in Southland and I found the event was very attractive and enjoyable for kids.
We saw character Smurfs, the clown with balloons and fairies.
The film was beautifully made. We liked songs, colours and details on animation.
The Smurfs village is colourful land. In these village lives one blond girl Smurfette and another Smurfs.
The evil wizard Gargamel plans to control and round up all Smurfs. He wants to get the Smurfs from lost village. He got an idea to pour all Smurfs into a boiling pot that will render him all powerful.
Smurfs Brainy, Clumsy and Hefty and blond girl Smurfette decided to go to find the Lost village. Their main intention to tell the Smurfs about dangerous plan of Gargamel.
The Smurfs’ adventures include a harrowing white-water rafting chase, as well as encounters with dragonfly insects, fantastic plants and glowing bunny rabbits.
Their latest adventure takes the Smurfs on a race through the Forbidden Forest filled with magical creatures to find a lost village before the evil wizard Gargamel does.
The animation film “Smurfs: The Lost Village”absolutely are for kids and parents.
SOME SNAPS FROM THE MEDIA PRE-SHOW ENTERTAINMENT FOR KIDS
ALLIANCE FRANCAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL 2017: MERCINARY
website
review by Irina Ivanova
Mercenary @
ALLIANCE FRANCAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL 2017
Everything about this film was impressive for me: the uncommon idea and formidable screenplay (both by Sacha Wolff); the outstanding performance of a non-professional actor Toki Pilioko and supporting actors; the effort put into the production of the film and the magnificent results… No wonder that Mercenary was chosen to be presented at the Directors' Fortnight section at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival, and won the Europa Cinemas Label Award.
The plot is based around a 19 year old Polynesian rugby player named Soane who’s received a rare chance to travel to France and sign a contract with one of the biggest French teams. However, the things didn’t go to plan (as they usually don’t when everything is at stake), so the boy suffered lots of hardships along his way to successful career. Nevertheless Soane didn’t ever loose the unshakable attitude and achieved his aims, which were not as superficial as some people may think. The boy was never after fame or money as such, but he was searching for something much more in-depth, that connected him with his ancestors and translated into the modern world.
I loved the symbolism and little details the film was abundant of. It seemed like every little thing was thoroughly planned and nurtured: from the adorable dimple on Toki Pilioko’s (Soane) cheek to the steadfastness of three-legged dogs “connecting” France with the boy’s motherland islands; from the shells beach and beautiful sunsets to the meaningfulness of traditional rituals; from the immense pain to relief; from hope to hopelessness; from fight to win, and the joy after.
In spite of their cannibalistic inheritance, by the sounds of the most powerful haka the islanders rise above all expectations. And that makes the whole movie more than worth watching. I greatly enjoyed.
website
review by Irina Ivanova
Mercenary @
ALLIANCE FRANCAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL 2017
Everything about this film was impressive for me: the uncommon idea and formidable screenplay (both by Sacha Wolff); the outstanding performance of a non-professional actor Toki Pilioko and supporting actors; the effort put into the production of the film and the magnificent results… No wonder that Mercenary was chosen to be presented at the Directors' Fortnight section at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival, and won the Europa Cinemas Label Award.
The plot is based around a 19 year old Polynesian rugby player named Soane who’s received a rare chance to travel to France and sign a contract with one of the biggest French teams. However, the things didn’t go to plan (as they usually don’t when everything is at stake), so the boy suffered lots of hardships along his way to successful career. Nevertheless Soane didn’t ever loose the unshakable attitude and achieved his aims, which were not as superficial as some people may think. The boy was never after fame or money as such, but he was searching for something much more in-depth, that connected him with his ancestors and translated into the modern world.
I loved the symbolism and little details the film was abundant of. It seemed like every little thing was thoroughly planned and nurtured: from the adorable dimple on Toki Pilioko’s (Soane) cheek to the steadfastness of three-legged dogs “connecting” France with the boy’s motherland islands; from the shells beach and beautiful sunsets to the meaningfulness of traditional rituals; from the immense pain to relief; from hope to hopelessness; from fight to win, and the joy after.
In spite of their cannibalistic inheritance, by the sounds of the most powerful haka the islanders rise above all expectations. And that makes the whole movie more than worth watching. I greatly enjoyed.
PERSONAL SHOPPER
website
RATE: 7/10
I am clueless to be honest.
I was watching the film without total understanding what was going on and what it was aiming for.
It seemed like a very intriguing picture at the start. The girl, a personal shopper Maureen, Kristen Stewart works for the high profile fashion celebrity and buys a very expensive wardrobe for her and does some other duties as a personal assistant. It kind of reminded me about a similar character Kristen Stewart played a couple of years back in a masterpiece that I absolutely adored: "Clouds of Sils Maria" (the same film director). "Personal Shopper" though was fascinating at the beginning as you could totally see the girl does not like her job. Kristen's feelings are strong, she is intense on the screen and her powerful but quiet personality shines through. The film flows perfectly well but suddenly the parts with the ghosts are introduced from no where - as one more story line. We find out that the personal shopper, Maureen lost her twin brother Lewis recently. She is also a medium (what? can't she being so good a mediumship work in the field she likes a lot - readings, channeling etc - there are good money in this area - what is she still doing as a personal shopper) She tries to channel Lewis from the other side but gets connected to something else that starts SMSing her on her mobile!! (WHAT?????) What is going on? It was one cheap turn after the other... The story seemed a bit unbelievable due to a mess with firstly what the message the creators were trying to deliver? I also was is deep doubt that the creators understood much in mediumship. The subject was shown too lightly , I would say: casually. It looked to me like white color designer bag with the crooked, black and cheap stitches or should I rather say it looked like the old made in China jeans with an expensive label on them... The turns in the plot from the one subject to the other did not make any sense nor I was interested anymore. I waited till the end hoping for the miracle to happen. My disconnection with the character and her intentions however were creating deeper and deeper abyss between us that did not heal till the very end.
Was looking forward to this film so much, but the plot disappointed me a lot, however Kristen as I mentioned before was exceptional and it worth seeing the film for the sake of her remarkable acting.
BWT it is not a horror film - mediumship is not horrific as well as the other worlds , it is a part of life. Everything related to the other realms is shown in a very mild way with a balance that deserves a certain appraisal.
website
RATE: 7/10
I am clueless to be honest.
I was watching the film without total understanding what was going on and what it was aiming for.
It seemed like a very intriguing picture at the start. The girl, a personal shopper Maureen, Kristen Stewart works for the high profile fashion celebrity and buys a very expensive wardrobe for her and does some other duties as a personal assistant. It kind of reminded me about a similar character Kristen Stewart played a couple of years back in a masterpiece that I absolutely adored: "Clouds of Sils Maria" (the same film director). "Personal Shopper" though was fascinating at the beginning as you could totally see the girl does not like her job. Kristen's feelings are strong, she is intense on the screen and her powerful but quiet personality shines through. The film flows perfectly well but suddenly the parts with the ghosts are introduced from no where - as one more story line. We find out that the personal shopper, Maureen lost her twin brother Lewis recently. She is also a medium (what? can't she being so good a mediumship work in the field she likes a lot - readings, channeling etc - there are good money in this area - what is she still doing as a personal shopper) She tries to channel Lewis from the other side but gets connected to something else that starts SMSing her on her mobile!! (WHAT?????) What is going on? It was one cheap turn after the other... The story seemed a bit unbelievable due to a mess with firstly what the message the creators were trying to deliver? I also was is deep doubt that the creators understood much in mediumship. The subject was shown too lightly , I would say: casually. It looked to me like white color designer bag with the crooked, black and cheap stitches or should I rather say it looked like the old made in China jeans with an expensive label on them... The turns in the plot from the one subject to the other did not make any sense nor I was interested anymore. I waited till the end hoping for the miracle to happen. My disconnection with the character and her intentions however were creating deeper and deeper abyss between us that did not heal till the very end.
Was looking forward to this film so much, but the plot disappointed me a lot, however Kristen as I mentioned before was exceptional and it worth seeing the film for the sake of her remarkable acting.
BWT it is not a horror film - mediumship is not horrific as well as the other worlds , it is a part of life. Everything related to the other realms is shown in a very mild way with a balance that deserves a certain appraisal.
ALLIANCE FRANCAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL THE ODYSSEY
L'ODYSSEE
website
RATE: 9/10
The captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau's books were surrounding my teenage life. I traveled with the great main on all his trips on Calipso, I dived following his helpers to the depths of oceans and seas. I knew everything about decompression and even more. I fell in love with water. More to that while I started swimming myself regularly three times a week I would imagine the captain and his son Phillipe waving me and OK=ing me from the deep water with sharks and whales on the background. The film is done very well. Little I knew about the real life of Cousteau', I knew though that his son was lost in the sea and I knew nothing about his family and what was happening there in reality. My books reading was romantic - I could find the photos of Phillipe and would look through the whole book first before reading it for these images in particular. My heart was broken when I heard about Phillip's tragedy. I sure could not understand how Jacques-Yves continued to live and work.
The film showed the events and the great researcher's life without making it heroical or romantic. Life is never white even when you are a celebrity and even if you are talented and famous. It is more likely totally on the contrary. Many unpleasant moments were shown in the film: I would like to highly praise a fantastic performance of Lambert Wilson,( as JYC) Audrey Tautou (as Simone) and Pierre Niney (as Phillipe).
One can not not mention the underwater shoots that were simply magnificent. Neglecting the life challenges people face daily the nture remains calm, spectacular and beautiful as it was created that way: to be and to be striking in all its forms.
It was an overall enjoymental journey through Jacques' life done with much consideration showing the black and white sides of life, the struggles and the victories. It definitely worth watching.
L'ODYSSEE
website
RATE: 9/10
The captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau's books were surrounding my teenage life. I traveled with the great main on all his trips on Calipso, I dived following his helpers to the depths of oceans and seas. I knew everything about decompression and even more. I fell in love with water. More to that while I started swimming myself regularly three times a week I would imagine the captain and his son Phillipe waving me and OK=ing me from the deep water with sharks and whales on the background. The film is done very well. Little I knew about the real life of Cousteau', I knew though that his son was lost in the sea and I knew nothing about his family and what was happening there in reality. My books reading was romantic - I could find the photos of Phillipe and would look through the whole book first before reading it for these images in particular. My heart was broken when I heard about Phillip's tragedy. I sure could not understand how Jacques-Yves continued to live and work.
The film showed the events and the great researcher's life without making it heroical or romantic. Life is never white even when you are a celebrity and even if you are talented and famous. It is more likely totally on the contrary. Many unpleasant moments were shown in the film: I would like to highly praise a fantastic performance of Lambert Wilson,( as JYC) Audrey Tautou (as Simone) and Pierre Niney (as Phillipe).
One can not not mention the underwater shoots that were simply magnificent. Neglecting the life challenges people face daily the nture remains calm, spectacular and beautiful as it was created that way: to be and to be striking in all its forms.
It was an overall enjoymental journey through Jacques' life done with much consideration showing the black and white sides of life, the struggles and the victories. It definitely worth watching.
FRANTZ THE MOVIE OF THE MONTH
website
RATE: 10/10
The film is fabulous: it is graceful, it is deeply emotional and it is very intelligently made.
ADRIEN
played by Pierre Niney is a Frenchman who comes to the grave of a young German man with flowers after the WWII. The story reveals slowly with the balanced development of the main characters. Adrien is emotionally fragile, elegant and brilliantly portrayed by Pierre so perfectly fit for this role. We keep asking questions: who is he to the German fellow buried in that grave? Were they friends, lovers or else? Why is he so emotionally attached to his national enemy - a German soldier? What did they have in common? Why does he cry about the killed in war son of Doktor Hans Hoffmeister? I can only add I was in tears for the whole movie till the last titles... Pierre played so beautifully this role could only be compared to his Yves Saint Laurent. We also saw him in Osyssey and he never disappoints. There is something about Pierre which you can not grasp, something un-catchable in his eyes and in his ever changing facial expressions. Again: he is amazing in this role.
ANNA
plyed by Paula Beer is sensational too. Her love for Frantz, her lost in war fiance is touching but not intense. She lost herself together with Frantz's death. Her way out of the "only one step" to suicide is shown in a smooth flow. It is almost unnoticeable how she changes from a mourning girlfriend into a lightened up soul that suddenly discovers a salvation. If you still are ready to experience one more emotion you are not able to die. He relationship with Adrien are complex; she goes through stages of surprise, interest, a will to live again, compassion, curiosity, losing her hope again, anger, disappointment, forgiveness, understanding,love, jealousy and letting go... her road is rocky and stirring but at the same time she is performing everything so well you believe her every move and every facial expression.
Hoffmeister family
's life changes on arrival on Adrien. It will never be the same again as there is a wee hope and a glimpse of light: he turns the whole household into a shinning place. They never be told the truth but the lies might kill them.
FRANTZ
is not there and he is everywhere in each episode. he is talked about. His past is shown. He is in the centre of everything. He and only he can bring the forgiveness to those who remained living while he... while he... while others also knew so little about him...
THE REST OF THE CHARACTERS
are playing the important role in our understanding and judging the war and its aftermath, people's reaction to friends and enemies... and own own reflections of stupidity of course. There is no one word nor one action or actors' emotion wasted in this film. I watched it greedily missing so much on a good taste European cinematography.
Thank you!
website
RATE: 10/10
The film is fabulous: it is graceful, it is deeply emotional and it is very intelligently made.
ADRIEN
played by Pierre Niney is a Frenchman who comes to the grave of a young German man with flowers after the WWII. The story reveals slowly with the balanced development of the main characters. Adrien is emotionally fragile, elegant and brilliantly portrayed by Pierre so perfectly fit for this role. We keep asking questions: who is he to the German fellow buried in that grave? Were they friends, lovers or else? Why is he so emotionally attached to his national enemy - a German soldier? What did they have in common? Why does he cry about the killed in war son of Doktor Hans Hoffmeister? I can only add I was in tears for the whole movie till the last titles... Pierre played so beautifully this role could only be compared to his Yves Saint Laurent. We also saw him in Osyssey and he never disappoints. There is something about Pierre which you can not grasp, something un-catchable in his eyes and in his ever changing facial expressions. Again: he is amazing in this role.
ANNA
plyed by Paula Beer is sensational too. Her love for Frantz, her lost in war fiance is touching but not intense. She lost herself together with Frantz's death. Her way out of the "only one step" to suicide is shown in a smooth flow. It is almost unnoticeable how she changes from a mourning girlfriend into a lightened up soul that suddenly discovers a salvation. If you still are ready to experience one more emotion you are not able to die. He relationship with Adrien are complex; she goes through stages of surprise, interest, a will to live again, compassion, curiosity, losing her hope again, anger, disappointment, forgiveness, understanding,love, jealousy and letting go... her road is rocky and stirring but at the same time she is performing everything so well you believe her every move and every facial expression.
Hoffmeister family
's life changes on arrival on Adrien. It will never be the same again as there is a wee hope and a glimpse of light: he turns the whole household into a shinning place. They never be told the truth but the lies might kill them.
FRANTZ
is not there and he is everywhere in each episode. he is talked about. His past is shown. He is in the centre of everything. He and only he can bring the forgiveness to those who remained living while he... while he... while others also knew so little about him...
THE REST OF THE CHARACTERS
are playing the important role in our understanding and judging the war and its aftermath, people's reaction to friends and enemies... and own own reflections of stupidity of course. There is no one word nor one action or actors' emotion wasted in this film. I watched it greedily missing so much on a good taste European cinematography.
Thank you!
ALLIANCE FRANCAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL: KALINKA
website
review by Irina Ivanova
Kalinka @
ALLIANCE FRANCAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL 2017
Since Kalinka seems to be a cute Russian-inspired girl’s name I would expect a tale about an extraordinary young woman, just judging by the title of the 2016 French-German drama directed by Vincent Garenq. However there is also an alternative name of the movie – “Au nom de ma fille”, literally translated “On behalf of my daughter”, which tells us a based-on-real-facts story of a father who chased up the justice for the murder of his teenage daughter.
The story starts with a banal portrayal of a ‘happy’ family where mother brings up two young children, father is always busy at work, a younger/more good looking/ maybe even enigmatic single man gets interested in the above mentioned wife of another man, and a love triangle is being formed very quickly. She slips and her husband files for divorce basing on her committing adultery. Then he eventually moves on, she continues building life with the new man of hers (by the way, also a father of two beautiful children), and everything seems peachy. That’s when the real story only begins…
Being on holidays with her mom and the family of stepdad, the young girl Kalinka (Emma Besson) abruptly dies under unclear circumstances. The childhood car accident could have been the cause of a traumatic brain hemorrhage, which could have lead to the unexpected death, but there was certain discrepancy that stopped the father of the girl to let go. So he begins his nearly 30 years long pursuit of the justification of his beloved daughter’s death.
Starring Daniel Auteuil, Sebastien Koch and Marie-Josee Croze the movie presents its audience with impeccable acting of three well known profies, and the script goes through the decades of truth searching as if it was a documentary showing all the ups and downs of Mr Bamberski’s (Auteuil) battle against the international jurisdiction system.
I would really recommend the movie for mature audience. It’s not something you would watch with your friends on the night out or in… It’s very profound and patience-demanding film. Well made and clearly bringing up the point.
website
review by Irina Ivanova
Kalinka @
ALLIANCE FRANCAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL 2017
Since Kalinka seems to be a cute Russian-inspired girl’s name I would expect a tale about an extraordinary young woman, just judging by the title of the 2016 French-German drama directed by Vincent Garenq. However there is also an alternative name of the movie – “Au nom de ma fille”, literally translated “On behalf of my daughter”, which tells us a based-on-real-facts story of a father who chased up the justice for the murder of his teenage daughter.
The story starts with a banal portrayal of a ‘happy’ family where mother brings up two young children, father is always busy at work, a younger/more good looking/ maybe even enigmatic single man gets interested in the above mentioned wife of another man, and a love triangle is being formed very quickly. She slips and her husband files for divorce basing on her committing adultery. Then he eventually moves on, she continues building life with the new man of hers (by the way, also a father of two beautiful children), and everything seems peachy. That’s when the real story only begins…
Being on holidays with her mom and the family of stepdad, the young girl Kalinka (Emma Besson) abruptly dies under unclear circumstances. The childhood car accident could have been the cause of a traumatic brain hemorrhage, which could have lead to the unexpected death, but there was certain discrepancy that stopped the father of the girl to let go. So he begins his nearly 30 years long pursuit of the justification of his beloved daughter’s death.
Starring Daniel Auteuil, Sebastien Koch and Marie-Josee Croze the movie presents its audience with impeccable acting of three well known profies, and the script goes through the decades of truth searching as if it was a documentary showing all the ups and downs of Mr Bamberski’s (Auteuil) battle against the international jurisdiction system.
I would really recommend the movie for mature audience. It’s not something you would watch with your friends on the night out or in… It’s very profound and patience-demanding film. Well made and clearly bringing up the point.
LIFE
website
RATE: 6.5/10
Oh, goodness me... I liked and I did not like this film.
I will tell everyone what I did like and finish my "honey" story with "the spoon of tar".
What was likable.
Dynamic story line development. Camera work was perfect. I still do not have a clue how the flying objects were filmed - more to that: I have no idea how they managed to film the actors flying/moving with no gravity inside the spacecraft - it was so real like as if they were at the real space station (?)... and it was spectacular! The staging was immaculate - as we all see it inside the modern spaceships. One actor was very likable: Jake Gyllenhaal who played astronaut D. Jordan as wellas the rest of the crew - they all did their parts very well - all least that limited amount of work that was expected from them during filming. They were not very strong but they were ok.
The film directing was immaculate and flawless as well as the structure of the movie. I also thought that the brutal horror loving audience would be glued to the screen so well done (scary-wise) it was. One could not know what would happen in the next 2 minutes of the film .The ending was rather unexpected giving the film one additional star only to loose the rest of them very quickly...
What was dull and unbelievably badly done
No fresh ideas, primitive story that lacks depth and characters' development. Unbelievable parts were : the episodes with crying spacecraft commander (what? did not the script writer work with the real astronauts to find out that they NEVER ever allow themselves any emotions while they work: their psychological training is a top to nothing, they are more "military people" than all the soldiers on planet earth. what? she actually dropped a tear? she was incompetent as a commander to say the least: to waste her crew in such way one after another following the way of "less required", "less cared about". There are so many downfalls in one film (but I guess teenagers will adore the picture!) - it only did not work with us, the experienced ones,who were raised on Star Wars (I am smiling!). One more example: the capsule lands down in the waters of Thailand. Two fishermen open (yes, you read it right: open effortlessly!) the door of the space capsule without any second thought - they also - like the way you open your backyard door - after they just saw some strange formation inside the capsule and a dying human. What would you do if you were a fishermen in Thailand? (well apart from fishing of course) - I do not know the common logic of Thai people but I would not ouch the capsule - any person in the right state of mind would call the authorities - at least call the police.
The list to be continued... but the last item on the menu would be: people, lets' write good scripts, let's stop this rush wut the primitive plots! Even the teenagers might say one day: we SAW IT ALREADY!
The last word of conclusion goes and here is it: we did not buy it!
website
RATE: 6.5/10
Oh, goodness me... I liked and I did not like this film.
I will tell everyone what I did like and finish my "honey" story with "the spoon of tar".
What was likable.
Dynamic story line development. Camera work was perfect. I still do not have a clue how the flying objects were filmed - more to that: I have no idea how they managed to film the actors flying/moving with no gravity inside the spacecraft - it was so real like as if they were at the real space station (?)... and it was spectacular! The staging was immaculate - as we all see it inside the modern spaceships. One actor was very likable: Jake Gyllenhaal who played astronaut D. Jordan as wellas the rest of the crew - they all did their parts very well - all least that limited amount of work that was expected from them during filming. They were not very strong but they were ok.
The film directing was immaculate and flawless as well as the structure of the movie. I also thought that the brutal horror loving audience would be glued to the screen so well done (scary-wise) it was. One could not know what would happen in the next 2 minutes of the film .The ending was rather unexpected giving the film one additional star only to loose the rest of them very quickly...
What was dull and unbelievably badly done
No fresh ideas, primitive story that lacks depth and characters' development. Unbelievable parts were : the episodes with crying spacecraft commander (what? did not the script writer work with the real astronauts to find out that they NEVER ever allow themselves any emotions while they work: their psychological training is a top to nothing, they are more "military people" than all the soldiers on planet earth. what? she actually dropped a tear? she was incompetent as a commander to say the least: to waste her crew in such way one after another following the way of "less required", "less cared about". There are so many downfalls in one film (but I guess teenagers will adore the picture!) - it only did not work with us, the experienced ones,who were raised on Star Wars (I am smiling!). One more example: the capsule lands down in the waters of Thailand. Two fishermen open (yes, you read it right: open effortlessly!) the door of the space capsule without any second thought - they also - like the way you open your backyard door - after they just saw some strange formation inside the capsule and a dying human. What would you do if you were a fishermen in Thailand? (well apart from fishing of course) - I do not know the common logic of Thai people but I would not ouch the capsule - any person in the right state of mind would call the authorities - at least call the police.
The list to be continued... but the last item on the menu would be: people, lets' write good scripts, let's stop this rush wut the primitive plots! Even the teenagers might say one day: we SAW IT ALREADY!
The last word of conclusion goes and here is it: we did not buy it!
At the Hoyts Australia MELBOURNE CENTRALmedia screening for LifeMovie presented by Sony Pictures . In cinemas tomorrow, March 23 . Who likes extraterrestrials?
THEIR FINEST
website
RATE: 10/10
If you are looking for a perfectly balanced classically made newly released romantic comedy-drama search no more because Their Finest has it all.
Perfect crew of actors so suitable for their characters: Gemma Arterton, Bill Nighy, Sam Claflin, Jack Huston, Jake Lacy,, Jeremy Irons, Eddie Marsan, Helen Elizabeth McCrory ,- looks more like a perfect flower garden to me rather than the actors' crew which will never disappoints you. It also looked to me like a good theater with unlimited budget rather than a film.
It is a film about script writers and how the movies are born; about those who feed them, nurse them and baby-sit them. Th person who can create a great story from the air is a genius. There is one more thing without the giving away the story line: when there is love and the love is real something beautiful gets born out of it: it materialises itself into art creations, it manifests itself into physical everywhere creating beauty and even more love. The love given to the movie wakes up love in our hearts, the people who watch the movies. It reflects in us also on so many levels.
As I mentioned before the story line is well balanced: it has a perfect amount of good humor, drama and romance.
Would I recommend the film? How would not I? I gave it 10/10. Of course I would.
website
RATE: 10/10
If you are looking for a perfectly balanced classically made newly released romantic comedy-drama search no more because Their Finest has it all.
Perfect crew of actors so suitable for their characters: Gemma Arterton, Bill Nighy, Sam Claflin, Jack Huston, Jake Lacy,, Jeremy Irons, Eddie Marsan, Helen Elizabeth McCrory ,- looks more like a perfect flower garden to me rather than the actors' crew which will never disappoints you. It also looked to me like a good theater with unlimited budget rather than a film.
It is a film about script writers and how the movies are born; about those who feed them, nurse them and baby-sit them. Th person who can create a great story from the air is a genius. There is one more thing without the giving away the story line: when there is love and the love is real something beautiful gets born out of it: it materialises itself into art creations, it manifests itself into physical everywhere creating beauty and even more love. The love given to the movie wakes up love in our hearts, the people who watch the movies. It reflects in us also on so many levels.
As I mentioned before the story line is well balanced: it has a perfect amount of good humor, drama and romance.
Would I recommend the film? How would not I? I gave it 10/10. Of course I would.
THE SEARCH FOR LIFE IN SPACE
website
RATE: 6/10
I have to be very honest with this film. It is short - about an hour. It is 3D, it is laser digital and IMAX is one amazing cinema to go and see it. It is a story of exploration of living forms and organisms on different planets humanity visited so far. The film explores not only life on other planets but also the life on planet Earth in the extreme conditions. Yes, the signs of life close to how we know it might be found on the other planet. The views from the world's most giant telescopes are spectacular indeed. The camera takes us on the journey to see the surface of Mars, as well as the Moons of Jupiter and Saturn.
However for us, spoiled by David Attenborough narrations and his engaging conversations the film seemed a bit primitive not to say it frankly: a bit boring and dull. The narrator's voice sounded more like a book reading automatic device with no personal feelings attached. Some of the episodes kept repeating, more to that: the film lacked fresh ideas and rather looked like someone's diploma work (the student graduated from the media department of local Uni) than the work of a mature specialist. If I was a student (and this film is create for students) I would be playing with my iPhone while the film is plating at the classroom. If I was a teacher I would rather show my students the masterpieces of Sir David A. But going to the cinemas for the sake of going out and seeing such a fantastic technology worth seeing the film - once again!
website
RATE: 6/10
I have to be very honest with this film. It is short - about an hour. It is 3D, it is laser digital and IMAX is one amazing cinema to go and see it. It is a story of exploration of living forms and organisms on different planets humanity visited so far. The film explores not only life on other planets but also the life on planet Earth in the extreme conditions. Yes, the signs of life close to how we know it might be found on the other planet. The views from the world's most giant telescopes are spectacular indeed. The camera takes us on the journey to see the surface of Mars, as well as the Moons of Jupiter and Saturn.
However for us, spoiled by David Attenborough narrations and his engaging conversations the film seemed a bit primitive not to say it frankly: a bit boring and dull. The narrator's voice sounded more like a book reading automatic device with no personal feelings attached. Some of the episodes kept repeating, more to that: the film lacked fresh ideas and rather looked like someone's diploma work (the student graduated from the media department of local Uni) than the work of a mature specialist. If I was a student (and this film is create for students) I would be playing with my iPhone while the film is plating at the classroom. If I was a teacher I would rather show my students the masterpieces of Sir David A. But going to the cinemas for the sake of going out and seeing such a fantastic technology worth seeing the film - once again!
