I watched Star Wars IV on DVD -*ducks rotten vegetable thrown in disgust at remastered classic filmery*- the other day and it was quality. almost5 /5
Also Dodgeball made me laugh lots. 3.1415926535897932384626433832795.../5
Full Version: Films
Just watched Lost in Translation again on DVD. Bloody fantastic.
The Incredibles will be incredible.
2nd of Ricky Gervais' stand up DVDs - politics - is out now, worth a look. and the Office Xmas specials obviously.
Godfather Box Set... muhahahahahaha!!!!
The Incredibles will be incredible.
2nd of Ricky Gervais' stand up DVDs - politics - is out now, worth a look. and the Office Xmas specials obviously.
Godfather Box Set... muhahahahahaha!!!!
The Incredibles:
Superheroes are put out of action by class action suits and have to be relocated by the government to live out their secret identities. After years of drguery in an insurance firm Bob Parr aka Mr Incredible receives an offer of super-work he can't refuse. Is all as it seems or will his super wife and kids have to come to his rescue at some point, thereby reinforcing the family unit and teaching them all some lessons about themselves? Hmmm
Well, after the relative disappointment of Finding Nemo it seems that Pixar have picked up again; the animation is top-notch, the acting is good, the one-liners are spiffy and the story is solid. Yet it's still missing that indefinable touch that made TS and M Inc so magical; it's good, perhaps even great, it's just not Pixar-great. There are a couple of points where the life-lessons are hammered home a bit strong, there's a completely superfluous (one might even say 1-D...it's funny cos she's thin) character whose motivations are more than a touch vague and at numerous points you might as well be watching animated Bond.
All that's just carping though; in the end The Incredibles is a funny, entertaining and heart-warming tale that looks great and has some great performances (Jason Lee seems to be having immense fun as bad-guy Syndrome) and that will no doubt go down well with pretty much everyone that sees it. I just won't be buying it. 3.9/5
Superheroes are put out of action by class action suits and have to be relocated by the government to live out their secret identities. After years of drguery in an insurance firm Bob Parr aka Mr Incredible receives an offer of super-work he can't refuse. Is all as it seems or will his super wife and kids have to come to his rescue at some point, thereby reinforcing the family unit and teaching them all some lessons about themselves? Hmmm
Well, after the relative disappointment of Finding Nemo it seems that Pixar have picked up again; the animation is top-notch, the acting is good, the one-liners are spiffy and the story is solid. Yet it's still missing that indefinable touch that made TS and M Inc so magical; it's good, perhaps even great, it's just not Pixar-great. There are a couple of points where the life-lessons are hammered home a bit strong, there's a completely superfluous (one might even say 1-D...it's funny cos she's thin) character whose motivations are more than a touch vague and at numerous points you might as well be watching animated Bond.
All that's just carping though; in the end The Incredibles is a funny, entertaining and heart-warming tale that looks great and has some great performances (Jason Lee seems to be having immense fun as bad-guy Syndrome) and that will no doubt go down well with pretty much everyone that sees it. I just won't be buying it. 3.9/5
Finding Nemo a disappointment? Beg to differ old chap. It was genius, as expected. In fact Monster's Inc. is probably the most disappointing Pixar effort so far for me. Closely followed by Bug's Life. They are still ace, but the 2 Toy Stories and Finding Nemo were a cut above.
Blade Trinity - can't wait. Notice the inevitable hero's woman partner has appeared. hope she doesn't go the Halle Berry way.
QUOTE(jonnyploy @ 29-Nov-04, 19:07)
Finding Nemo a disappointment? Beg to differ old chap. It was genius, as expected.
Relative disappointment.
Each to their own old fruit; I know I'm in the minority when it comes to that opinion (just look at the box office) but I still felt it was a case of style over substance for the most part. I mean it wasn't bad, it was good, it just weren't TS good. As for Monsters Inc. that was far too funny to be bunched with Bugs. It's just a case of Pixar setting the bar high in the beginning; they still win the gold, they just don't break the record when doing it.
Go and see The Incredibles; I don't think you'll be as picky as I am.
As for Blade; I don't think Jessica Biel is a love interest; she's Whistler's daughter, part of a team of human vampire hunters who help Blade try to defeat the resurrected Dracula. I think that they're going for a spin-off franchise with these guys and no Blade. There's a trailer here
New and quite exciting Hitchhiker's news:
Bill Bailey is inspired casting, I now can't imagine the whale's voice without the West Country getting in and Alan Rickman does have a serially depressed voice. Good stuff all round.
QUOTE
Rickman And Bailey Hitch A Ride To The Galaxy
Two of our favourite people join sci-fi comedy…
07 January 2005
With the planet’s first big-screen adaptation of The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy only six short months away, there’s a definite whiff of excitement in the air. (Well, either that or the Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal is nearby.) After all, the thoroughly likeable Martin Freeman is in the frame as bewildered hero Arthur Dent and the moviemakers have been granted a lavish budget to splurge on Vogon spaceships and intergalactic sperm whales.
There’s only a couple of potential problems — namely, director Garth Jennings’ inexperience and the difficulties inherent in trying to keep Douglas Adams’ absurdist wit intact in a mainstream blockbuster. Then again, Jennings appeared as “Fun-Dead Zombie” in Shaun Of The Dead — surely a sign that his sense of humour’s in the right place — and inspired casting choices suggest that Adams’ eccentric comedy hasn’t been completely purged.
The most recent — and utterly fab — news is as follows: Alan Rickman will voice Marvin the Paranoid Android (a highly intelligent but clinically depressed cyborg), while comedian Bill Bailey will lend his troll-like tones to the musings of the aforementioned sperm whale (formerly a pair of nuclear missiles and close relative to a bowl of petunias — don't ask).
Both actors are British, come with sci-fi credentials (Rickman starred in Galaxy Quest and Bailey claims to be part-Klingon) and, most importantly, are funny as hell. That whiff of excitement has just got a little, well, whiffier…
Two of our favourite people join sci-fi comedy…
07 January 2005
With the planet’s first big-screen adaptation of The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy only six short months away, there’s a definite whiff of excitement in the air. (Well, either that or the Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal is nearby.) After all, the thoroughly likeable Martin Freeman is in the frame as bewildered hero Arthur Dent and the moviemakers have been granted a lavish budget to splurge on Vogon spaceships and intergalactic sperm whales.
There’s only a couple of potential problems — namely, director Garth Jennings’ inexperience and the difficulties inherent in trying to keep Douglas Adams’ absurdist wit intact in a mainstream blockbuster. Then again, Jennings appeared as “Fun-Dead Zombie” in Shaun Of The Dead — surely a sign that his sense of humour’s in the right place — and inspired casting choices suggest that Adams’ eccentric comedy hasn’t been completely purged.
The most recent — and utterly fab — news is as follows: Alan Rickman will voice Marvin the Paranoid Android (a highly intelligent but clinically depressed cyborg), while comedian Bill Bailey will lend his troll-like tones to the musings of the aforementioned sperm whale (formerly a pair of nuclear missiles and close relative to a bowl of petunias — don't ask).
Both actors are British, come with sci-fi credentials (Rickman starred in Galaxy Quest and Bailey claims to be part-Klingon) and, most importantly, are funny as hell. That whiff of excitement has just got a little, well, whiffier…
Bill Bailey is inspired casting, I now can't imagine the whale's voice without the West Country getting in and Alan Rickman does have a serially depressed voice. Good stuff all round.
Road to Perdition
Excellent stuff, good face acting from messers Hanks and Newman, atmospheric cinematography, an nasty performance from Law and the kid aint too annoying. Worth a look.
4/5
Excellent stuff, good face acting from messers Hanks and Newman, atmospheric cinematography, an nasty performance from Law and the kid aint too annoying. Worth a look.
4/5
Ocean's 12
It's a few years after the 3 casino heist and Ocean's 11 are living on their earnings quite happily, that's until Benedict turns up and gives them two weeks to give him his money...with interest!
THey need a heist, they're too hot in the USA so they head Europe-way. THere they are confronted by two small problems: One - Rusty's ex-girlfriend (CZ-J) is a top dog in Europol and she's already on their tails. Two - Another thief is nicking stuff before they can get to it. How will it all go down?
Well I'm afraid where 11 was slick, 12 is messy; from the gathering of the crew through the 'heist' all the way to the rather disappointing denoument this film just don't get it done. Here there is no lead about which the caper can go down, in 11 (and I know you really shouldn't compare sequels at every turn but here it's hard) it was George's show, sure Brad et al had as much screentime but it really was Ocean's 11. In 12 the half-jokey on-screen complaint that "I thought we agreed to call it the Bellagio Caper." seems to hang over the crew so that no-one really gets a good look-in.
On the plus side the film is stylishly shot, though Amsterdam can't hold a candle to the neon of LV, Steven Soderberg's direction is capable as ever and while the lights are down the film is entertaining enough, it just doesn't last a moment after walking out the cinema.
Go and see if you've got nowt better to do on Tuesday, otherwise go and watch Ocean's 11 again. 2.9/5
It's a few years after the 3 casino heist and Ocean's 11 are living on their earnings quite happily, that's until Benedict turns up and gives them two weeks to give him his money...with interest!
THey need a heist, they're too hot in the USA so they head Europe-way. THere they are confronted by two small problems: One - Rusty's ex-girlfriend (CZ-J) is a top dog in Europol and she's already on their tails. Two - Another thief is nicking stuff before they can get to it. How will it all go down?
Well I'm afraid where 11 was slick, 12 is messy; from the gathering of the crew through the 'heist' all the way to the rather disappointing denoument this film just don't get it done. Here there is no lead about which the caper can go down, in 11 (and I know you really shouldn't compare sequels at every turn but here it's hard) it was George's show, sure Brad et al had as much screentime but it really was Ocean's 11. In 12 the half-jokey on-screen complaint that "I thought we agreed to call it the Bellagio Caper." seems to hang over the crew so that no-one really gets a good look-in.
On the plus side the film is stylishly shot, though Amsterdam can't hold a candle to the neon of LV, Steven Soderberg's direction is capable as ever and while the lights are down the film is entertaining enough, it just doesn't last a moment after walking out the cinema.
Go and see if you've got nowt better to do on Tuesday, otherwise go and watch Ocean's 11 again. 2.9/5
Go to www.amazon.com for the new Hitchhiker's Guide trailer. (You may have to lower your defenses to get it to show on the front screen.)
Heat
The tale of Robert De Niro's crew of crooks (including Val Kilmer) as they try to take down one last score (well, three really), are pursued by Al Pacino and the rest of the LAPD and the effect all this has on their various families.
I was inspired to watch this after seeing Michael Mann's recent Collateral and frankly I'm glad I made the effort as it's excellent: The plot is tight even though the film is long (180 mins) and the action, when it happens, is well shot and thrilling, especially the infamous shootout on the streets of LA. The acting generally pretty good (as you'd expect) and the ploy of having Hollywood's Greatest Living Actors ™ in the same film, but keeping them apart until two thirds of the way in, pays off with an electric scene in a cafe. Though even here they only share the screen with the back of the other's head. The rest just about hold their own but it's reall Bob & Al's show.
LA is once again prevalent in Mann's work (though not to the extent it is in Collateral) and provides the perfect backdrop for a drawn-out and sprawling cops & robbers chase but it also provides a strange sort of home to the families as we are shown not just the high adrenaline stuff but the difficulties of being married to either side.
Fantastic stuff. 4/5
The tale of Robert De Niro's crew of crooks (including Val Kilmer) as they try to take down one last score (well, three really), are pursued by Al Pacino and the rest of the LAPD and the effect all this has on their various families.
I was inspired to watch this after seeing Michael Mann's recent Collateral and frankly I'm glad I made the effort as it's excellent: The plot is tight even though the film is long (180 mins) and the action, when it happens, is well shot and thrilling, especially the infamous shootout on the streets of LA. The acting generally pretty good (as you'd expect) and the ploy of having Hollywood's Greatest Living Actors ™ in the same film, but keeping them apart until two thirds of the way in, pays off with an electric scene in a cafe. Though even here they only share the screen with the back of the other's head. The rest just about hold their own but it's reall Bob & Al's show.
LA is once again prevalent in Mann's work (though not to the extent it is in Collateral) and provides the perfect backdrop for a drawn-out and sprawling cops & robbers chase but it also provides a strange sort of home to the families as we are shown not just the high adrenaline stuff but the difficulties of being married to either side.
Fantastic stuff. 4/5
Ween Pie - I will not be able to do Tuesday cheap night cinema at Stevenage as I will be at the Odeon Leicester Square for the UK Premiere of the new Will Smith film 'Hitch'.
Now where's that autograph book gone...
You all think I'm joking too.
Now where's that autograph book gone...
You all think I'm joking too.
The Station Agent
Diminutive train lover (I wanna say spotter...but he's too cool) Finbar McBride inherits a train depot in the back of beyond (Newfoundland, New Jersey) and wanders off to live there in solitude. Except for the hot dog stand guy Joe who won't let him...and local artist Olivia who almost runs him over twice. The three gradually form a bond despite not looking for anything more than to be alone. With hilarious consequenses.
Seriously though this really is another one of those quietly funny films where nothing much happens but one comes out of it feeling quite a bit better about the world: The performances of the three leads are great; Patricia Clarkson is particularly good as on-the-edge divorcee Olivia who feels an attachment to the steely, direct Fin and Peter Dinklage more than holds his own, being less than 5 foot tall not making a bit of difference in any thing but other's reactions, and a tragi-comic scene where his height proves an obstacle to defending the girl.
This is a film about things not said and finding your own amusment in little things, much like Lost in Translation really. I urge you all to watch...again except perhaps Warren.
Excellent 4/5
Diminutive train lover (I wanna say spotter...but he's too cool) Finbar McBride inherits a train depot in the back of beyond (Newfoundland, New Jersey) and wanders off to live there in solitude. Except for the hot dog stand guy Joe who won't let him...and local artist Olivia who almost runs him over twice. The three gradually form a bond despite not looking for anything more than to be alone. With hilarious consequenses.
Seriously though this really is another one of those quietly funny films where nothing much happens but one comes out of it feeling quite a bit better about the world: The performances of the three leads are great; Patricia Clarkson is particularly good as on-the-edge divorcee Olivia who feels an attachment to the steely, direct Fin and Peter Dinklage more than holds his own, being less than 5 foot tall not making a bit of difference in any thing but other's reactions, and a tragi-comic scene where his height proves an obstacle to defending the girl.
This is a film about things not said and finding your own amusment in little things, much like Lost in Translation really. I urge you all to watch...again except perhaps Warren.
Excellent 4/5
The Station Agent was quality! Joe is such a great character.
Also I saw The Life Aquatic and it kicks beyond all else! had me in stitches. Bill Murray, we salute you.
Also I saw The Life Aquatic and it kicks beyond all else! had me in stitches. Bill Murray, we salute you.
QUOTE(Tart @ 15-Mar-05, 15:48)
The Station Agent was quality! Joe is such a great character.
Also I saw The Life Aquatic and it kicks beyond all else! had me in stitches. Bill Murray, we salute you.
I have to add to tartiflette's comments about the Life Aquatic to say that the soundtrack is cool as beans too, I especially like the ever so funky tune which they have playing in their helmets when diving.
Yeah Joe was cool but I associated more with Fin, I mean any guy who goes through life with a name like Finbar and still gets to kiss Michelle Williams deserves respect.
Right better actually finish this I guess.
Next up:
13 Going on 30
Only one reason to watch this film and that's Jennifer Garner. Now, this isn't 'cos she looks great prancing around in a nightie (although she really does you know) but because she turns out to be an extremely competant comic actress, providing enough warmth and character to carry the film and allow the guys to enjoy this 'flick on more than just the one level. In short; perfectly entertaining. And your mum'll like it.
3/5
Right better actually finish this I guess.
Next up:
13 Going on 30
Only one reason to watch this film and that's Jennifer Garner. Now, this isn't 'cos she looks great prancing around in a nightie (although she really does you know) but because she turns out to be an extremely competant comic actress, providing enough warmth and character to carry the film and allow the guys to enjoy this 'flick on more than just the one level. In short; perfectly entertaining. And your mum'll like it.
3/5
Finding Neverland
An excellent story based on the events that inspired JM Barrie to write Peter Pan. Jonny Depp is wonderfully understated as a man who never really grew up but never-the-less achieved maturity. The supporting cast do their jobs excellently, Kate Winslet in energetic and wholesome and even Freddie Highmore manages to not annoy...good news for the up-coming Chocolate Factory. 4/5
Open Range
Thoughtful western starring Robert Duval and Kevin Costner, encompassing themes of freedom etc. and including an underwhelming and therefore realistic and captivating gunfight. Worth a punt. 4/5
An excellent story based on the events that inspired JM Barrie to write Peter Pan. Jonny Depp is wonderfully understated as a man who never really grew up but never-the-less achieved maturity. The supporting cast do their jobs excellently, Kate Winslet in energetic and wholesome and even Freddie Highmore manages to not annoy...good news for the up-coming Chocolate Factory. 4/5
Open Range
Thoughtful western starring Robert Duval and Kevin Costner, encompassing themes of freedom etc. and including an underwhelming and therefore realistic and captivating gunfight. Worth a punt. 4/5
Sahara
Based on Clive Cussler's novels about improbably named explorer Dirk Pitt this film has set itself up to be a rip-roaring adventure with no strings and achieves this admirably: This is a film with tongue firmly in cheek; a sort of a cross between Indy and Bond that turns out more like The Mummy without the CG, and with slightly less plausibility in some way, but who cares?
Mathew McConnaughey flashes his pearly whites to good effect, the buddy factor working well between him and Steve Zahn as slightly goofy mate Al. Penelope Cruz is fine as a W.H.O doctor trying to root out the cause of a potential epidemic who somehow tags along as Pitt searches for a Civil War Ironclad that, for reasons too compicated to go into, may be buried in the desert. William H Macy is solid as always as the exasperated money behind Pitt and crew.
Frankly you could probably drive a tanker through the plot holes but Brett Eisner drives the plot along fast enough for you not to really care.
If it's big and dumb, but not brainless, you want then this should fit the bill. That's Saturday night sorted then (or Tuesday I guess for you Stevenage types).
3.5/5
Based on Clive Cussler's novels about improbably named explorer Dirk Pitt this film has set itself up to be a rip-roaring adventure with no strings and achieves this admirably: This is a film with tongue firmly in cheek; a sort of a cross between Indy and Bond that turns out more like The Mummy without the CG, and with slightly less plausibility in some way, but who cares?
Mathew McConnaughey flashes his pearly whites to good effect, the buddy factor working well between him and Steve Zahn as slightly goofy mate Al. Penelope Cruz is fine as a W.H.O doctor trying to root out the cause of a potential epidemic who somehow tags along as Pitt searches for a Civil War Ironclad that, for reasons too compicated to go into, may be buried in the desert. William H Macy is solid as always as the exasperated money behind Pitt and crew.
Frankly you could probably drive a tanker through the plot holes but Brett Eisner drives the plot along fast enough for you not to really care.
If it's big and dumb, but not brainless, you want then this should fit the bill. That's Saturday night sorted then (or Tuesday I guess for you Stevenage types).
3.5/5
Hero
Beautifully shot with some stunning action that will leave certain images indelibly in your mind (two women in red fighting amid swirling golden leaves, two men soaring above a mirror-still lake) this film never-the-less suffered greatly from not being on the big screen; with a plot with a slightly dubious (to me anyway) message and acting more intent on looking good than finding the true emotion this film didn't really touch me. Perhaps not having immersed myself in wushu put me at a disadvantage (I'm sure it's an exemplary example of the genre) but give me a film with real emotional depth to back up the visuals any day.
A truely great film should capture you wherever you see it, this fall short but leaves one hell of a good-looking corpse that's certainly worth a rubber necking. 3/5
Beautifully shot with some stunning action that will leave certain images indelibly in your mind (two women in red fighting amid swirling golden leaves, two men soaring above a mirror-still lake) this film never-the-less suffered greatly from not being on the big screen; with a plot with a slightly dubious (to me anyway) message and acting more intent on looking good than finding the true emotion this film didn't really touch me. Perhaps not having immersed myself in wushu put me at a disadvantage (I'm sure it's an exemplary example of the genre) but give me a film with real emotional depth to back up the visuals any day.
A truely great film should capture you wherever you see it, this fall short but leaves one hell of a good-looking corpse that's certainly worth a rubber necking. 3/5
Uresei Yatsura The Movie
Yep that's right; the Glaswegian rockers finally have that biopic they were promised...or this could be the movie of the Japanese TV series they named themselves after, it's hard to tell.
The story of womanising 17 yr old Ataru, who is engaged to a beautiful alien with terrible taste in men called Lum, and the problems caused when his betrothal at the age of six to another alien girl calle Elle (due to stepping on her shadow) is called in and the invitations go out. Cue various shennanigans half in a serious noble tone and half in a juvenile giggle.
Basically this is a film with cult written all over it. And by cult I mean blokes in monochrome dresses asking you to join them on their journey of enlightenment by holing up in Texas with as many guns as possible and drinking this special fruit punch.
I'd stick to the music folks.
2/5
Yep that's right; the Glaswegian rockers finally have that biopic they were promised...or this could be the movie of the Japanese TV series they named themselves after, it's hard to tell.
The story of womanising 17 yr old Ataru, who is engaged to a beautiful alien with terrible taste in men called Lum, and the problems caused when his betrothal at the age of six to another alien girl calle Elle (due to stepping on her shadow) is called in and the invitations go out. Cue various shennanigans half in a serious noble tone and half in a juvenile giggle.
Basically this is a film with cult written all over it. And by cult I mean blokes in monochrome dresses asking you to join them on their journey of enlightenment by holing up in Texas with as many guns as possible and drinking this special fruit punch.
I'd stick to the music folks.
2/5
Sahara - I pretty much agree with King. It reminded me a lot of the Mummy - enjoyable trashy stuff. I liked Steve Zahn and I liked Penelope Cruz's ever more prominent cleavage.
My only issue was that there wasn't a really imposing villain.
Hero - Again, I pretty much agree with the Kingol. This film looks good, really good. But it never engaged me at all. Something that I'd add to King's review is that I was disappointed with most of the action. There was too much slow motion and CG enhancement for my liking. Compared to the lightning-quick bonkers action of Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, I thought Hero's fight scenes were a bit flat.
Finding Neverland - V. good.
Valiant - Okay, but uninspiring in most departments. Particularly visuals. I watched The Incredibles and Finding Nemo again recently and Valiant suffers badly in comparison.
Robots - This film also suffers from comparisons with Pixar's offerings. There are some good ideas here, but the story is poor and the execution doesn't make up for it. Roll on the next Pixar effort.
My only issue was that there wasn't a really imposing villain.
Hero - Again, I pretty much agree with the Kingol. This film looks good, really good. But it never engaged me at all. Something that I'd add to King's review is that I was disappointed with most of the action. There was too much slow motion and CG enhancement for my liking. Compared to the lightning-quick bonkers action of Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, I thought Hero's fight scenes were a bit flat.
Finding Neverland - V. good.
Valiant - Okay, but uninspiring in most departments. Particularly visuals. I watched The Incredibles and Finding Nemo again recently and Valiant suffers badly in comparison.
Robots - This film also suffers from comparisons with Pixar's offerings. There are some good ideas here, but the story is poor and the execution doesn't make up for it. Roll on the next Pixar effort.
Good stuff.
Wimbledon:
British wildcard wins Wimbledon and gets the new shit-hot American tennis-babe...it's a fantasy. You all know the plot, you all, I suspect, know exactly what it's like; Paul Bettany does his best Hugh Grant impression and pulls it off impeccably, Kirsten Dunst looks good in tennis. Entertaining enough pap I guess. One for the parents.
2.9/5
Wimbledon:
British wildcard wins Wimbledon and gets the new shit-hot American tennis-babe...it's a fantasy. You all know the plot, you all, I suspect, know exactly what it's like; Paul Bettany does his best Hugh Grant impression and pulls it off impeccably, Kirsten Dunst looks good in tennis. Entertaining enough pap I guess. One for the parents.
2.9/5
QUOTE(King @ 23-Apr-05, 16:33)
Good stuff.
Wimbledon:
British wildcard wins Wimbledon and gets the new shit-hot American tennis-babe...it's a fantasy. You all know the plot, you all, I suspect, know exactly what it's like; Paul Bettany does his best Hugh Grant impression and pulls it off impeccably, Kirsten Dunst looks good in tennis. Entertaining enough pap I guess. One for the parents.
2.9/5
Wimbledon:
British wildcard wins Wimbledon and gets the new shit-hot American tennis-babe...it's a fantasy. You all know the plot, you all, I suspect, know exactly what it's like; Paul Bettany does his best Hugh Grant impression and pulls it off impeccably, Kirsten Dunst looks good in tennis. Entertaining enough pap I guess. One for the parents.
2.9/5
but bayda is in it... so it deserves a few more points
Yeah but I couldn't see him, until he's pointed out it'll stay at 2.9. Once it's proved it's a seven all the way for the sheer coolness of being mates with one of the stars of the show.
I also have to say that I read 'The Big Fat Kill' in Ottakars on Saturday and the fact that QT directs the scene in the car between Dwight (Clive Owen) and Jackie Boy (Benicio Del Toro) has notched up the excitment just a tad...now for the other two.
Before Sunrise
Jesse (Ethan Hawke) meets Celine (Julie Delpy) on the train from Budapest to Vienna where he is to catch the morning flight back to the US and they hit it off. He persuades her to get off before her stop in Paris and spend the night wandering around Vienna to further get to know each other.
That's about it for plot, but for such an apparently scant story you get to see two people fall completely in love without knowing the first thing about the other. As Jonnyboy said about the sequal this film really is just two people talking about...stuff sometimes semi-profound (God being in the gap between two people trying to understand each other) but most of the time just trying to comunicate their world-view without really knowing what they're trying to say.
The two leads have a lot to carry and do so with aplomb: The film is touching and funny and you really connect with these strangers who have bonded over not much more than a journey and the knowledge that it will soon end (as with all good things).
The film also showcases much of Vienna (a place I've been but don't remember anything except a road sign (it's a cracking story, I'll tell it sometime)) and its surprisingly amusing inhabitants with skill and fondness.
Quiet Genius. Can't wait for the sequal to come through the post.
4/5
Jesse (Ethan Hawke) meets Celine (Julie Delpy) on the train from Budapest to Vienna where he is to catch the morning flight back to the US and they hit it off. He persuades her to get off before her stop in Paris and spend the night wandering around Vienna to further get to know each other.
That's about it for plot, but for such an apparently scant story you get to see two people fall completely in love without knowing the first thing about the other. As Jonnyboy said about the sequal this film really is just two people talking about...stuff sometimes semi-profound (God being in the gap between two people trying to understand each other) but most of the time just trying to comunicate their world-view without really knowing what they're trying to say.
The two leads have a lot to carry and do so with aplomb: The film is touching and funny and you really connect with these strangers who have bonded over not much more than a journey and the knowledge that it will soon end (as with all good things).
The film also showcases much of Vienna (a place I've been but don't remember anything except a road sign (it's a cracking story, I'll tell it sometime)) and its surprisingly amusing inhabitants with skill and fondness.
Quiet Genius. Can't wait for the sequal to come through the post.
4/5
Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
One Thursday, everyday human Arthur Dent learns that there's more to life than previously thought...
Well that's all you're getting for plot 'cos you probably know all you need to. Is it any good? Well yes, yes it is...yes, no well...yeeah it's good (it took two trips to the cinema for that amount of definitiveness so count yourselves lucky). On first viewing I was distracted by how similar/different the film is to the other medii to enjoy it fully; the first third is just like the rest (except trimmed slightly obviously), so much so that I knew pretty much all the jokes and was slightly distressed by the missing parts and left wishing it was all new (therefore funnier). The second third is completely different, half good, half so-so, the good bit mainly consisting of people getting smacked in the face, and the final third is a strange amalgamation of the two.
On second viewing I decided I always found HHG more amusing than funny anyway so this fits right in, and without the middle third it'd all be a bit short (and deny us all some great 'rake' acting) and actually it's a good comic sci-fi film on its own: The visuals are all very good; using Jim Henson instead of ILM works a treat, particularly on the Vogons, the book graphics fit in well (though we can all mourn the wonderful BBC Green-line graphics), the wool section is great, and the Magerathea workshop is a joy. The whole cast is just about perfect; Martin Freeman is less posh and annoyed than Simon Jones (who cameos as the voice of Magerathea) and works well with Zooey (pronounced Zoë) Deschenal, their added romance not jarring as it could have (and raising the prospect of some naked Zooey action on the wing of a 747). Sam Rockwell's Zaphod is appropriately annoying, nailing a character that was always cool in his head/at a distance but a buffoon up close and Mos Def is fine as Ford, though not given much to do. Warrick Davis and Alan Rickman are great as Marvin, imbuing their particular mediums with as much depression as possible. The supporting cast are also excellent, in particular Bill Nighy, perfect as a slightly dazed Slartibartfast and Stephen Fry as the book.
So I now can't remember why I was doubtful...it's good I tells ye.
4/5
(Stay till the end of Neil Hannon's rendition on'So Long...' for a Book item about a fleet of battleships and a small dog.)
One Thursday, everyday human Arthur Dent learns that there's more to life than previously thought...
Well that's all you're getting for plot 'cos you probably know all you need to. Is it any good? Well yes, yes it is...yes, no well...yeeah it's good (it took two trips to the cinema for that amount of definitiveness so count yourselves lucky). On first viewing I was distracted by how similar/different the film is to the other medii to enjoy it fully; the first third is just like the rest (except trimmed slightly obviously), so much so that I knew pretty much all the jokes and was slightly distressed by the missing parts and left wishing it was all new (therefore funnier). The second third is completely different, half good, half so-so, the good bit mainly consisting of people getting smacked in the face, and the final third is a strange amalgamation of the two.
On second viewing I decided I always found HHG more amusing than funny anyway so this fits right in, and without the middle third it'd all be a bit short (and deny us all some great 'rake' acting) and actually it's a good comic sci-fi film on its own: The visuals are all very good; using Jim Henson instead of ILM works a treat, particularly on the Vogons, the book graphics fit in well (though we can all mourn the wonderful BBC Green-line graphics), the wool section is great, and the Magerathea workshop is a joy. The whole cast is just about perfect; Martin Freeman is less posh and annoyed than Simon Jones (who cameos as the voice of Magerathea) and works well with Zooey (pronounced Zoë) Deschenal, their added romance not jarring as it could have (and raising the prospect of some naked Zooey action on the wing of a 747). Sam Rockwell's Zaphod is appropriately annoying, nailing a character that was always cool in his head/at a distance but a buffoon up close and Mos Def is fine as Ford, though not given much to do. Warrick Davis and Alan Rickman are great as Marvin, imbuing their particular mediums with as much depression as possible. The supporting cast are also excellent, in particular Bill Nighy, perfect as a slightly dazed Slartibartfast and Stephen Fry as the book.
So I now can't remember why I was doubtful...it's good I tells ye.
4/5
(Stay till the end of Neil Hannon's rendition on'So Long...' for a Book item about a fleet of battleships and a small dog.)
nice review, but correct.
"I think i'm a sofa"
Genius
"I think i'm a sofa"
Genius
Yes, I thought it important to get the goodness factor out the way then I could review at my leisure
Seven Samurai
[Homer]Total rip-off of the Smurfs![/Homer] (or the Magnificent Seven to give it its other name...(and yes, I'm well aware of which came first).)
In short it's a great story and obviously a classic but I found some of the acting a touch too melodramatic for my tastes, so I'd rather watch the Western.
Makes scoring it difficult.
3/5 Enjoyment-wise. Add a star n a half of 'classic' value if you're in to that sort of thing.
Seven Samurai
[Homer]Total rip-off of the Smurfs![/Homer] (or the Magnificent Seven to give it its other name...(and yes, I'm well aware of which came first).)
In short it's a great story and obviously a classic but I found some of the acting a touch too melodramatic for my tastes, so I'd rather watch the Western.
Makes scoring it difficult.
3/5 Enjoyment-wise. Add a star n a half of 'classic' value if you're in to that sort of thing.
Before Sunset
For plot synopsis see: Jonnyboy.
Excellent follow-up to Before Sunrise; the dialogue sparkles and the acting is as top-notch as before. As long as you don't get distracted by just how long each take is, and you enjoyed the first, you'll love this. All the hanging questions from the first are answered but equally many raised. And Paris does look good. As does Delpy. (Hawke as well probably.)
Great ending...'I know'
4/5
For plot synopsis see: Jonnyboy.
Excellent follow-up to Before Sunrise; the dialogue sparkles and the acting is as top-notch as before. As long as you don't get distracted by just how long each take is, and you enjoyed the first, you'll love this. All the hanging questions from the first are answered but equally many raised. And Paris does look good. As does Delpy. (Hawke as well probably.)
Great ending...'I know'
4/5
Spngebob Sqaurepants: The Movie.
This was recommended to me, and now I recommend it to all of you.
This movie made me laugh a lot. Especially towards the end where it starts to get pretty surreal (think total non-sequitors like family guy).
Anything with this much taking-the-piss-out-of-David-Hasslehoff-factor deserves a look.
This was recommended to me, and now I recommend it to all of you.
This movie made me laugh a lot. Especially towards the end where it starts to get pretty surreal (think total non-sequitors like family guy).
Anything with this much taking-the-piss-out-of-David-Hasslehoff-factor deserves a look.
QUOTE(Tart @ 22-May-05, 8:42)
Spngebob Sqaurepants: The Movie.
This was recommended to me, and now I recommend it to all of you.
This movie made me laugh a lot. Especially towards the end where it starts to get pretty surreal (think total non-sequitors like family guy).
Anything with this much taking-the-piss-out-of-David-Hasslehoff-factor deserves a look.
This was recommended to me, and now I recommend it to all of you.
This movie made me laugh a lot. Especially towards the end where it starts to get pretty surreal (think total non-sequitors like family guy).
Anything with this much taking-the-piss-out-of-David-Hasslehoff-factor deserves a look.
I agree with tart. Its a slice of deep fried genius.
400/rabbit
Fried Gold!
SW Ep III: RotS
I'm sure all of you interested know or can guess the plot; Anakin goes bad, Jedi die.
So is it any good? Well it's the best prequal certainly...but that isn't saying all that much really now is it? As a spectacle it certainly works; the kids are gonna love it. Is it a good film though, is it even a good sci-fi film? (For some reason these seem to be judged by slightly different criteria.) Well not really, I mean it's OK, quite good even just not all there; I don't feel a better person for having seen the thing.
It starts off in good form; a hectic space battle forms the backdrop to some friendly bickering from A and OB1 and some hint of a fall to come then we have a over-long period of stilted dialogue and nicely slithery acting from Ian McDiarmid but it doesn't really kick off until the Jedi start to go down: There's some vignettes of Jedi only geeks (that's me) will recognise getting slaughtered and even the younglings go down (though if you ask me they deserve it for being so sickening). Unfortunately I just don't buy the central pillar; the fall of Anakin. He's just so very thick; when the time comes it's more of a "Ooops, I guess I'd better turn evil then" than a gradual slip and catastrophic fall...obviously much happens between the films but unless you keep up with the 'toons and comics it all seems a bit easy. At least Ewan seems to be having fun impersonating Alec...and Natalie finally flashes her acting chops near the end.
The lightsaber battles (all five of them) are certainly impressive, as are the battle sequences, but there remains the horrible nagging sensation of overkill in the background; just as we didn't need to see some beast trample a jawa in Ep 4, we don't really need to see droids doing stuff in a hanger half a mile away while two guys are scrapping. Oh, and 'the high ground'? is that all it takes?
So in the end it's flawed and Mr Lucas really should have let someone else do the hard work but it's still enjoyable enough to keep the kids entertained, (and by kids I mean us) break the box office and nick its trousers, though I wish he could have tied up those loose ends with a touch more than a couple of throw-away lines...'training' indeed. 3.2/5
I'm sure all of you interested know or can guess the plot; Anakin goes bad, Jedi die.
So is it any good? Well it's the best prequal certainly...but that isn't saying all that much really now is it? As a spectacle it certainly works; the kids are gonna love it. Is it a good film though, is it even a good sci-fi film? (For some reason these seem to be judged by slightly different criteria.) Well not really, I mean it's OK, quite good even just not all there; I don't feel a better person for having seen the thing.
It starts off in good form; a hectic space battle forms the backdrop to some friendly bickering from A and OB1 and some hint of a fall to come then we have a over-long period of stilted dialogue and nicely slithery acting from Ian McDiarmid but it doesn't really kick off until the Jedi start to go down: There's some vignettes of Jedi only geeks (that's me) will recognise getting slaughtered and even the younglings go down (though if you ask me they deserve it for being so sickening). Unfortunately I just don't buy the central pillar; the fall of Anakin. He's just so very thick; when the time comes it's more of a "Ooops, I guess I'd better turn evil then" than a gradual slip and catastrophic fall...obviously much happens between the films but unless you keep up with the 'toons and comics it all seems a bit easy. At least Ewan seems to be having fun impersonating Alec...and Natalie finally flashes her acting chops near the end.
The lightsaber battles (all five of them) are certainly impressive, as are the battle sequences, but there remains the horrible nagging sensation of overkill in the background; just as we didn't need to see some beast trample a jawa in Ep 4, we don't really need to see droids doing stuff in a hanger half a mile away while two guys are scrapping. Oh, and 'the high ground'? is that all it takes?
So in the end it's flawed and Mr Lucas really should have let someone else do the hard work but it's still enjoyable enough to keep the kids entertained, (and by kids I mean us) break the box office and nick its trousers, though I wish he could have tied up those loose ends with a touch more than a couple of throw-away lines...'training' indeed. 3.2/5
Hitchhiker's:
I know King's already done this one, but I thought I'd add my bit.
I was pleasantly surprised by this. After all the build up of excitement in the months running up to it's release, I suddenly became fearful that it was going to be utter cack. In fact, I really enjoyed it. Martin Freeman was indeed good, Mos Def too (especially when called upon to beat away attackers with his towel). I have to disagree with King on Zooey Deschanel though. Despite having a name which wouldn't at all be out of place in the Hitchhiker's, Zooey was not great in this. I felt actually that the love story did jar a bit for precisely that reason. And although the prospect of Zooey nekkid on the wing of a plane makes want to retract all that immediately, they would really have had to feck about with the story big style for that to happen as it is Fenchurch not Trillian who wantonly exposes herself in So Long...
Having said that, I agree that the effects were indeed good and done with a sense of humour in keeping with the spirit of the book/radio series/ television series. The wool bit was my favourite part and got the biggest laugh when Sampie and I saw it.
Oh and King is also right when he says that people getting smacked in the face is funny.
The Interpreter:
Not bad this. Nicole Kidman's 'allo pa' accent is a bit disconcerting for a while, but she's fairly convincing as an interpreter (duh) working at the UN.
Collecting some stuff from the UN late one evening she happens to overhear a death threat in an obscure African dialect. Cue lots of shady looking people following her, political goings on and the drafting in of the US secret service (Sean Penn and co) to look into it.
Sydney Pollack racks up the tension nicely, although I felt that the last section was too long. Sean Penn is good if you can bear the fact that he is yet again playing an emotional fuckwit (why does he have to cry in every film he's in? Some sort of contractual obligation? My guess, having seen part of the so-called 'comedy' Shanghai Surprise on the box the other night, is that crying is all he can do. He certainly can't smile without looking like his face is being eaten from the inside).
Enough harshness about Sean Penn, the Interpreter is pretty good.
I know King's already done this one, but I thought I'd add my bit.
I was pleasantly surprised by this. After all the build up of excitement in the months running up to it's release, I suddenly became fearful that it was going to be utter cack. In fact, I really enjoyed it. Martin Freeman was indeed good, Mos Def too (especially when called upon to beat away attackers with his towel). I have to disagree with King on Zooey Deschanel though. Despite having a name which wouldn't at all be out of place in the Hitchhiker's, Zooey was not great in this. I felt actually that the love story did jar a bit for precisely that reason. And although the prospect of Zooey nekkid on the wing of a plane makes want to retract all that immediately, they would really have had to feck about with the story big style for that to happen as it is Fenchurch not Trillian who wantonly exposes herself in So Long...
Having said that, I agree that the effects were indeed good and done with a sense of humour in keeping with the spirit of the book/radio series/ television series. The wool bit was my favourite part and got the biggest laugh when Sampie and I saw it.
Oh and King is also right when he says that people getting smacked in the face is funny.
The Interpreter:
Not bad this. Nicole Kidman's 'allo pa' accent is a bit disconcerting for a while, but she's fairly convincing as an interpreter (duh) working at the UN.
Collecting some stuff from the UN late one evening she happens to overhear a death threat in an obscure African dialect. Cue lots of shady looking people following her, political goings on and the drafting in of the US secret service (Sean Penn and co) to look into it.
Sydney Pollack racks up the tension nicely, although I felt that the last section was too long. Sean Penn is good if you can bear the fact that he is yet again playing an emotional fuckwit (why does he have to cry in every film he's in? Some sort of contractual obligation? My guess, having seen part of the so-called 'comedy' Shanghai Surprise on the box the other night, is that crying is all he can do. He certainly can't smile without looking like his face is being eaten from the inside).
Enough harshness about Sean Penn, the Interpreter is pretty good.
Sin City
Three vaguely intertwining stories of big men with square jaws rescuing big breasts with square women in a comic-book stylee.
This is an ultimate comic-geek fantasy film; matching the graphic novel on which it is based almost word-for-word, numerous shots matching panels from the novel, all the women improbably stacked and scantily-clad. If you want to get deep (or are female and not interested in this sort of thing) one could complain at a lack of any depth to the characters or tales told but frankly that isn't the point. Sin City is pure babes and guns entertainment for guys who should know better.
The array of acting talent on show seem to fit the parts perfectly, Mickey Rourke standing out as Marv (wounded, sensitive mass murderer) along with Elijah Wood as far from Frodo as possible as Kevin (repulsive, sadistic mass murderer) and your pick of half-naked women. However it's the cinematography and directing that is most on show: As individual as Tom Hanks in Castaway, the style of the film could take some getting used to; all B&W with flashes of colour ( blue eyes, golden hair) and hard-boiled voice overs serve to suck you in to Frank Miller's world and also insulate you from it. Without the benefit of blood gushing (mostly) white, saturation point would reached for most before an hour is up. Rodriguez does a good job of keeping everything together in tone and performance and QT's guest spot...well I'm not sure if I'd have noticed the guest director spot if I hadn't known already, but I reckon I could discern a difference, enough to make the scene stand out, both in quality and ick.
My only problem was that it went on a little long; by the time Clive Owen was done rescuing Rosario Dawson I'd have been happy for it to end but instead Bruce has to rescue Jessica Alba for a second time. The discomfort, however, is brief as Sin City sucks you back in to its world of gravel voices and pneumatic breasts for just a little more fun...and breasts.
So if you like comics go...just don't take a date. A bumptious 4/5
Three vaguely intertwining stories of big men with square jaws rescuing big breasts with square women in a comic-book stylee.
This is an ultimate comic-geek fantasy film; matching the graphic novel on which it is based almost word-for-word, numerous shots matching panels from the novel, all the women improbably stacked and scantily-clad. If you want to get deep (or are female and not interested in this sort of thing) one could complain at a lack of any depth to the characters or tales told but frankly that isn't the point. Sin City is pure babes and guns entertainment for guys who should know better.
The array of acting talent on show seem to fit the parts perfectly, Mickey Rourke standing out as Marv (wounded, sensitive mass murderer) along with Elijah Wood as far from Frodo as possible as Kevin (repulsive, sadistic mass murderer) and your pick of half-naked women. However it's the cinematography and directing that is most on show: As individual as Tom Hanks in Castaway, the style of the film could take some getting used to; all B&W with flashes of colour ( blue eyes, golden hair) and hard-boiled voice overs serve to suck you in to Frank Miller's world and also insulate you from it. Without the benefit of blood gushing (mostly) white, saturation point would reached for most before an hour is up. Rodriguez does a good job of keeping everything together in tone and performance and QT's guest spot...well I'm not sure if I'd have noticed the guest director spot if I hadn't known already, but I reckon I could discern a difference, enough to make the scene stand out, both in quality and ick.
My only problem was that it went on a little long; by the time Clive Owen was done rescuing Rosario Dawson I'd have been happy for it to end but instead Bruce has to rescue Jessica Alba for a second time. The discomfort, however, is brief as Sin City sucks you back in to its world of gravel voices and pneumatic breasts for just a little more fun...and breasts.
So if you like comics go...just don't take a date. A bumptious 4/5
I Heart Huckabees
Either an attempt at a deeply profound look at the interconnectedness of all through the experiences of a select few or an attempt at a slightly whacky, skewed, holistic comedy. Both fail miserably.
Frankly the film is a mess with no one performance on which to hang or, it would seem, any strong direction from David Russell. It's more like a series of vaguely connected skits that I just didn't find funny. Maybe it's a matter of taste.
Laughs: 1 (Being hit in the face with a mini space hopper)
Reasons to watch: 1 (Naomi Watts looks quite nice for most of it)
Total: 2/5
Either an attempt at a deeply profound look at the interconnectedness of all through the experiences of a select few or an attempt at a slightly whacky, skewed, holistic comedy. Both fail miserably.
Frankly the film is a mess with no one performance on which to hang or, it would seem, any strong direction from David Russell. It's more like a series of vaguely connected skits that I just didn't find funny. Maybe it's a matter of taste.
Laughs: 1 (Being hit in the face with a mini space hopper)
Reasons to watch: 1 (Naomi Watts looks quite nice for most of it)
Total: 2/5
Mr & Mrs Smith
Entertaining; leads good; no ending or bad guy. 3.5/5 Could have been a solid 4+ if it had another 20 minutes to actually insert a conclusion. More later. Maybe.
Entertaining; leads good; no ending or bad guy. 3.5/5 Could have been a solid 4+ if it had another 20 minutes to actually insert a conclusion. More later. Maybe.
The Cooler - Quite Cool 3.8/5
Hellboy - Bit comic-book 3/5
Ghost Dog - Way of the Samurai - Didn't really connect - 2.9/5
Batman Begins (Cough)- Excellent, real stunts work! 4.1/5
Hellboy - Bit comic-book 3/5
Ghost Dog - Way of the Samurai - Didn't really connect - 2.9/5
Batman Begins (Cough)- Excellent, real stunts work! 4.1/5
Batman Returns or Batman Begins?
I'm sure your review applies to both actually.
I'm sure your review applies to both actually.
Be Cool
Dear lord this is shit; not a hint of cool, Christina Milian isn't special enough, John Travolta isn't cool enough, The Rock is great but not great enough and Vince Vaughan is just irritating. The film's farcical where Get Shorty was slightly unlikely but very cool. Look at me? Feck off fat boy!
2/5 (It did have a few chuckle points)
Dear lord this is shit; not a hint of cool, Christina Milian isn't special enough, John Travolta isn't cool enough, The Rock is great but not great enough and Vince Vaughan is just irritating. The film's farcical where Get Shorty was slightly unlikely but very cool. Look at me? Feck off fat boy!
2/5 (It did have a few chuckle points)
Sideways
Ageing voiceover actor Jack (Church) is finally tying the knot. To celebrate, his longtime friend Miles (Giamatti) treats him to a stag week in the Californian vineyards, to teach him the ways of wine tasting. But Jack has different plans: he wants to get the morose Miles laid - and get his own end away while he's at it... (Thanks to Empire)
Well it's very good, the characters are interesting and while not very likeable in their actions by midway through the film you find yourself caring quite deeply both for the lavacious basterd and the morose git. It's also quite funny in places...it's too hot for proper reviewing though. I recommend you watch it; you may even learn something about wine. If you're not too busy laughing at the pretention on show.
4/5
Ageing voiceover actor Jack (Church) is finally tying the knot. To celebrate, his longtime friend Miles (Giamatti) treats him to a stag week in the Californian vineyards, to teach him the ways of wine tasting. But Jack has different plans: he wants to get the morose Miles laid - and get his own end away while he's at it... (Thanks to Empire)
Well it's very good, the characters are interesting and while not very likeable in their actions by midway through the film you find yourself caring quite deeply both for the lavacious basterd and the morose git. It's also quite funny in places...it's too hot for proper reviewing though. I recommend you watch it; you may even learn something about wine. If you're not too busy laughing at the pretention on show.
4/5
Newer Serenity Trailer
House of Flying Daggers
China; Olden Times; The government is locked in conflict with rebel forces mianly The House of Flying Daggers. Captains Leo and Jin are tasked with finding the new leader, sending Jin undercover to 'rescue' and accompany suspected Daggers member Mei (Zhang Ziyi). All may not be what it seems.
While this film doesn't quite meet the visual imagery of Zhang Yimou's previous film Hero, it more than makes up for it by more or less ignoring the grand scheme and focusing on a tragic love story, thereby giving the film the heart that Hero lacked. That doesn't mean to say it's not stunningly shot; all the locations demonstrate the director's eye for background, perfectly highlighting the balletic, meticulous fight scenes that'd have QT crying into his mocha.
However, it is all a touch repetative; fight soldiers, trundle on a bit, fight some more soldiers, trundle on a bit more, fight more soldiers in a bamboo forest. All beautifully staged and meticulously executed but it does make it feel a little like a computer game. The final third dispenses with this and piles on revalation after revalation, something that may test the patience a touch; as you don't get the chance to settle with the new state of affairs when they're turned on their head again.
So better than Hero if not quite as memorable, Daggers benefits from a typically excellent performance from Zhang Ziyi but still just misses the mark. Even though it does make excellent use of the Glasgow Kiss.
3.5/5
China; Olden Times; The government is locked in conflict with rebel forces mianly The House of Flying Daggers. Captains Leo and Jin are tasked with finding the new leader, sending Jin undercover to 'rescue' and accompany suspected Daggers member Mei (Zhang Ziyi). All may not be what it seems.
While this film doesn't quite meet the visual imagery of Zhang Yimou's previous film Hero, it more than makes up for it by more or less ignoring the grand scheme and focusing on a tragic love story, thereby giving the film the heart that Hero lacked. That doesn't mean to say it's not stunningly shot; all the locations demonstrate the director's eye for background, perfectly highlighting the balletic, meticulous fight scenes that'd have QT crying into his mocha.
However, it is all a touch repetative; fight soldiers, trundle on a bit, fight some more soldiers, trundle on a bit more, fight more soldiers in a bamboo forest. All beautifully staged and meticulously executed but it does make it feel a little like a computer game. The final third dispenses with this and piles on revalation after revalation, something that may test the patience a touch; as you don't get the chance to settle with the new state of affairs when they're turned on their head again.
So better than Hero if not quite as memorable, Daggers benefits from a typically excellent performance from Zhang Ziyi but still just misses the mark. Even though it does make excellent use of the Glasgow Kiss.
3.5/5
House of flying daggers was visualy amazing i found the story less than involing but the look of the thing was enough to make my jaw drop.
last amazing thing i saw was Hotel Rwanda. Totally harrowing but unbelivable good - dont know if anyone already reviewed it if not see it. Scary but wonderful.
last amazing thing i saw was Hotel Rwanda. Totally harrowing but unbelivable good - dont know if anyone already reviewed it if not see it. Scary but wonderful.
QUOTE
Buffy + spaceships, what's not to love?
Noj,
For every vampire slayer I see in Serenity, I will kill you.
QUOTE(noj @ 25-Jul-05, 14:07)
Buffy + spaceships, what's not to love?
er... how about buffy and space ships!
Love Buffy, don't have strong feelings about spaceships one way or the other. As Pete so eloquently stated though, Serenity appears to have a distinct lack of Buffy. Shame really, cos I would have liked to see Noj die at the hands of Pete.
Pete, perhaps you should kill Noj every time a vampire slayer appears on screen in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Think about it, everyone would be a winner.
Pete, perhaps you should kill Noj every time a vampire slayer appears on screen in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Think about it, everyone would be a winner.
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