Tonight we enjoyed the cutesy, American, feelgood, Christmas movie; One Magic Christmas. Starring Mary Steenburgen as the hard done by, no Christmas spirit, Mother of two; Ginny Grainger.
Ginny with her husband Jack and two children; Cal and Abbie, face a bleak Christmas, times are hard, Jack has no job, Ginny works at the local supermarket, presents will be thin on the ground this year. That is, until Christmas angel; Gideon (played by Harry Dean Stanton), turns up, tasked with rekindling the Christmas spirit within Ginny.
How does he achieve this, I hear you ask?
Well you'll just have to watch it to find out! It's only a short movie (88 mins), so it's an ideal feelgood film to slot into a free afternoon / evening whilst polishing off another couple of mince pies.
Be warned, it has a slow start and the story building takes some time, but stick with it, once you get to the point where Ginny's Christmas has hit it's lowest point, then when it is magically turned around it will leave you all reaching for the tissues!
One Magic Christmas, is a magical movie. Enjoy.
Tuesday 28 December 2010
Tuesday 21 December 2010
Bedtime Stories - 21st December 2010
So tonight we watched Bedtime Stories with Adam Sandler. A light hearted Disney family film, where over looked and under appreciated Skeeter Bronson (played by Sandler), makes magical bedtime stories come to life, with the help of his Niece and Nephew.<
The plot revolves around the ownership and management of a hotel. True to form, there are bad guys; played by Guy Pierce and Richard Griffiths and the good guys Sandler, Russell Brand, Courtney Cox and Keri Russell.
It is an entertaining escapist movie, where the bedtime stories seemingly come to life in reality. Adam Sandler is OK in this but I found that the best laughs came from Bugsy the boggle-eyed guinea pig.
As a film to get and keep on DVD, it may not get played that much, but as an occasional film to watch if it's on TV on a soggy Sunday afternoon, then I suggest watch it with the family, especially if you have kids from 8 to 80!
I'm not sure it will make it as an all time classic live action Disney film, but nonetheless it's not a bad 96 minute diversion to the stresses of reality!
Enjoy.
Oh and to all those of you that actually read this, can I just say, as this will be the last Film Night before Christmas; a Happy Christmas to all of you and as Tiny Tim observed; "God bless us, everyone"!
Please leave a comment.
The plot revolves around the ownership and management of a hotel. True to form, there are bad guys; played by Guy Pierce and Richard Griffiths and the good guys Sandler, Russell Brand, Courtney Cox and Keri Russell.
It is an entertaining escapist movie, where the bedtime stories seemingly come to life in reality. Adam Sandler is OK in this but I found that the best laughs came from Bugsy the boggle-eyed guinea pig.
As a film to get and keep on DVD, it may not get played that much, but as an occasional film to watch if it's on TV on a soggy Sunday afternoon, then I suggest watch it with the family, especially if you have kids from 8 to 80!
I'm not sure it will make it as an all time classic live action Disney film, but nonetheless it's not a bad 96 minute diversion to the stresses of reality!
Enjoy.
Oh and to all those of you that actually read this, can I just say, as this will be the last Film Night before Christmas; a Happy Christmas to all of you and as Tiny Tim observed; "God bless us, everyone"!
Please leave a comment.
Thursday 16 December 2010
The Christmas Choir - 16th December 2010
So, a couple of days late due to Christmas commitments, we have our first real Christmas movie night.
Tonight it was an American movie, possibly made for TV judging by some of the heavy cuts every 20 or so minutes, which looked like it was time for a commercial break. So, the budget on the film may not have been high, but the story made up for that. Brilliantly written by; Donald Martin it follows the life of successful, workaholic accountant Peter Brockman, who, due to his inability to see what is going on around him, because he focuses too much on work, manages to break up with his girlfriend, who he was about to marry.
A chance meeting with a homeless guy, who played piano and sang in a bar for tips, sparks a friendship when they discover they share a passion for music. Bob, the homeless pianist, takes Peter to the Nun run shelter where he stays at night. This is where Peter discovers there is more to life than being an accountant. So he decides to help out. As it's coming up to Christmas, he tries to find ways to raise some cash for the guys in the shelter, this is when he hits upon the idea of a choir.
From here the story follows their struggles to get it together, tracing the highs and lows and where Peters' home life matches some of the issues of the guys he is trying to help.
The story from here is fairly formulaic, a typical heart-warming Christmas tale, but it is a good one. There is love, and laughs on the way, but watch out for the tear jerking moments at the end, you'd best have some tissues handy.
OK, so it was a made for TV film, but it is good nonetheless, in fact it picked up the Epiphany Prize for the Most Inspirational Film For Television in the 2009 MovieGuide Awards.
So if you see it on a TV channel near you sometime over the festive period, give it a watch, you won't be sorry. Or pick up a copy from Amazon, as it's only £2.99!.
Tuesday 7 December 2010
Groundhog Day - 7th December 2010
Tonight's film, was going to be a Christmas movie, but due to one of our number being unavailable it was decided to postpone the viewing of the new Christmas movie, (don't ask, call back here next week for details).
Instead we settled down (one viewer short) to enjoy; Groundhog Day with Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell.
I probably do not need to re-tell the storyline for Groundhog Day, as it has been seen many times before I'm sure, but it is a belter of a story and one I shall never tire of. It must be in my top three best films of all time.
Bill Murray plays local Weatherman Phil Connors, who ends up in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania on February 2, for the annual Groundhog Day. After going through the uneventful day and getting stuck in the unforseen blizzard trying to get back to Pittsburg. Connors, Rita (Andie MacDowell) and Larry the camera are stuck in Punxsutawney.
Although some are more stuck than others, as Phil finds out when he awakes next morning, to find it is 6am on February 2 again.
And so, he goes through Groundhog Day again and again and again.
As I say, I will never tire of this romantic comedy, it's a treat to watch, even though we know the story, and the repetitive storyline. There's something magical about it.
I like it!
Instead we settled down (one viewer short) to enjoy; Groundhog Day with Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell.
I probably do not need to re-tell the storyline for Groundhog Day, as it has been seen many times before I'm sure, but it is a belter of a story and one I shall never tire of. It must be in my top three best films of all time.
Bill Murray plays local Weatherman Phil Connors, who ends up in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania on February 2, for the annual Groundhog Day. After going through the uneventful day and getting stuck in the unforseen blizzard trying to get back to Pittsburg. Connors, Rita (Andie MacDowell) and Larry the camera are stuck in Punxsutawney.
Although some are more stuck than others, as Phil finds out when he awakes next morning, to find it is 6am on February 2 again.
And so, he goes through Groundhog Day again and again and again.
As I say, I will never tire of this romantic comedy, it's a treat to watch, even though we know the story, and the repetitive storyline. There's something magical about it.
I like it!
Tuesday 30 November 2010
Seven Pounds - 30th November 2010
An absolutely brilliant film tonight. Seven Pounds is an intriguing tale, with Will Smith in the lead role.
However, this is going to be the shortest Tuesday Night is Film Night review, as I cannot really tell you much about the film, without spoiling the plot. Needless to say it is intriguing, heart warming, clever, well written and definitely worth a watch.
It was described as a life affirming movie. This is very true.
It was slightly tricky to follow at the start, but stick with it, all will be revealed and it is well worth it.
Will Smith is fast becoming one of my favourite actors and he plays his character with conviction and honesty, it's a beautiful story.
Watch it!
However, this is going to be the shortest Tuesday Night is Film Night review, as I cannot really tell you much about the film, without spoiling the plot. Needless to say it is intriguing, heart warming, clever, well written and definitely worth a watch.
It was described as a life affirming movie. This is very true.
It was slightly tricky to follow at the start, but stick with it, all will be revealed and it is well worth it.
Will Smith is fast becoming one of my favourite actors and he plays his character with conviction and honesty, it's a beautiful story.
Watch it!
Tuesday 23 November 2010
Role Models - 23rd November 2010
Well, Sky billed this film as a; "feelgood comedy", which it was, but it was more than that. It was a laugh out loud, rude, crude, expletive packed, giggle fest, feelgood comedy!
So the story is, that a couple of energy drink rep's are selling their Minotaur Energy drink around the local schools, when they hit on a problem, as their truck is about to be towed away. The ensuing argument and truck crash land them in court and the choice of jail or Community Service. They opt for the Community Service and are enrolled in a buddy scheme, where they pair up with a couple of kids who have lost their way in life.
Danny, played by Paul Rudd is paired up with the nerdy Augie (fantastically played by Christopher Mintz-Plasse). Augie is into dungeons and dragons role play, is shy with girls and doesn't really fit in. His Mother and step Father don't help either.
Wheeler, played by Seann William Scott, is paired up with the young, street-wise, slick talking Ronnie (portrayed by Bobb'e J. Thompson, another fantastic casting).
This is where the trouble really starts. Danny who has lost his girlfriend of seven years. Wheeler thinks anything in a skirt is an easy lay and they have to buddy up with two kids and be role models.
It's not easy, and their adventures which play out through the middle section of the film, is hilarious! Again, no real spoilers on here, you'll just have to watch the film to witness all the fun.
One word of warning, it's a 15 rating and there is almost gratuitous use of several popular swear words, but it is used to comedic effect and should not offend those of a delicate nature. It does enhance the comedy, but be aware if you have ones with little ears!
Absolutely loved this film. We do love the feelgood movie genre, this one followed the predictable pattern of;
Another great film for Film Night.
So the story is, that a couple of energy drink rep's are selling their Minotaur Energy drink around the local schools, when they hit on a problem, as their truck is about to be towed away. The ensuing argument and truck crash land them in court and the choice of jail or Community Service. They opt for the Community Service and are enrolled in a buddy scheme, where they pair up with a couple of kids who have lost their way in life.
Danny, played by Paul Rudd is paired up with the nerdy Augie (fantastically played by Christopher Mintz-Plasse). Augie is into dungeons and dragons role play, is shy with girls and doesn't really fit in. His Mother and step Father don't help either.
Wheeler, played by Seann William Scott, is paired up with the young, street-wise, slick talking Ronnie (portrayed by Bobb'e J. Thompson, another fantastic casting).
This is where the trouble really starts. Danny who has lost his girlfriend of seven years. Wheeler thinks anything in a skirt is an easy lay and they have to buddy up with two kids and be role models.
It's not easy, and their adventures which play out through the middle section of the film, is hilarious! Again, no real spoilers on here, you'll just have to watch the film to witness all the fun.
One word of warning, it's a 15 rating and there is almost gratuitous use of several popular swear words, but it is used to comedic effect and should not offend those of a delicate nature. It does enhance the comedy, but be aware if you have ones with little ears!
Absolutely loved this film. We do love the feelgood movie genre, this one followed the predictable pattern of;
- this is the situation;
- down on luck individuals;
- things go wrong;
- need to do something about it;
- fail;
- try again;
- fail again;
- try something else;
- and finally win the day.
Another great film for Film Night.
Tuesday 16 November 2010
Dreamgirls - 16th November 2010
OK then, what can we say about Dreamgirls? Well it's the story of a trio of singers growing up in Detroit in the 50's and 60's and trying to make their way into the big time.
After trying out at many auditions, they bump into Curtis Taylor Jr (Jamie Foxx), who promises them the big time, but only if they start at the bottom and do backing vocals for James 'Thunder' Early, played by the inimitable Eddie Murphy, who is one of the saving graces for this movie. And yes he can really sing.
What follows is the story of how they progress from backing singers, to big time recording artists, charting the highs, the lows, the break ups and the getting back together again's.
It is a fairly predictable story, so much so that I guessed one of the characters would die, I shan't tell you which one though!
Beyoncé Knowles puts in a great performance as Deena Jones, who eventually becomes the lead singer of "The Dreams", but at the cost of a long friendship, as Effie White who clearly has the better voice is relegated to backing vocals. Effie is played by Jennifer Hudson and is a great singer and ideal for this part.
Other notable stars are Danny Glover, who plays Jimmy Early's first manager; Marty Madison. And Keith Robinson as C.C. White, Effie's Brother and The Dreams' songwriter. The third member of The Dreams is played by Anika Noni Rose who is the youngest member; Lorrell Robinson.
There's also a cameo appearance from John Lithgow.
Anyway, back to the movie, it is a film adaptation of a Broadway musical, and it started off OK, there was dialogue for the talking bits and there were songs where there should be singing, but then about a third of the way into the movie, it went all musical and they started to sing the dialogue, which spoilt it a bit for us. Yes, we should have been prepared for this, but when you have a music biopic, is there a real need to have sung dialogue as well? We get enough singing with the songs, surely?
Anyway, it is a good film, the storyline is a bit thin, but if you like R&B and soul music then it is a great one to watch. It also finishes as one would expect with a happy ending, but it takes awhile to get there.
Well worth a viewing if you haven't seen it, check out some trailers first though!
After trying out at many auditions, they bump into Curtis Taylor Jr (Jamie Foxx), who promises them the big time, but only if they start at the bottom and do backing vocals for James 'Thunder' Early, played by the inimitable Eddie Murphy, who is one of the saving graces for this movie. And yes he can really sing.
What follows is the story of how they progress from backing singers, to big time recording artists, charting the highs, the lows, the break ups and the getting back together again's.
It is a fairly predictable story, so much so that I guessed one of the characters would die, I shan't tell you which one though!
Beyoncé Knowles puts in a great performance as Deena Jones, who eventually becomes the lead singer of "The Dreams", but at the cost of a long friendship, as Effie White who clearly has the better voice is relegated to backing vocals. Effie is played by Jennifer Hudson and is a great singer and ideal for this part.
Other notable stars are Danny Glover, who plays Jimmy Early's first manager; Marty Madison. And Keith Robinson as C.C. White, Effie's Brother and The Dreams' songwriter. The third member of The Dreams is played by Anika Noni Rose who is the youngest member; Lorrell Robinson.
There's also a cameo appearance from John Lithgow.
Anyway, back to the movie, it is a film adaptation of a Broadway musical, and it started off OK, there was dialogue for the talking bits and there were songs where there should be singing, but then about a third of the way into the movie, it went all musical and they started to sing the dialogue, which spoilt it a bit for us. Yes, we should have been prepared for this, but when you have a music biopic, is there a real need to have sung dialogue as well? We get enough singing with the songs, surely?
Anyway, it is a good film, the storyline is a bit thin, but if you like R&B and soul music then it is a great one to watch. It also finishes as one would expect with a happy ending, but it takes awhile to get there.
Well worth a viewing if you haven't seen it, check out some trailers first though!
Tuesday 9 November 2010
50 First Dates - 9th November 2010
Well, well, well, 50 First Dates lived up to the hype (people kept telling me it was a good film to watch) and it turned out to be a great movie, albeit with a slow start.
Henry Roth (Adam Sandler) is an aquatic Vet living in Hawaii, he is also a womaniser, praying on single women whilst they are on vacation. That is until he bumps into Lucy Whitmore (Drew Barrymore) in the local Diner. They fall for each other and plan to see each other in the Diner for breakfast the next morning. All seems to be going to plan, when the twist in this little tale becomes apparent.
About a year ago, Lucy and her Father were in a car accident, as a result Lucy suffered some brain damage, which presents itself as short-term memory loss.
For the last year, she has been waking up thinking everyday is October the 13th. She goes through each day, doing the same things, but when she goes to sleep, she wipes the days' memory from her mind and wakes up back at the same point.
This slightly farsical notion, is enhanced by her Father and Brother, ensuring that things are put back as they were, hiding copies of the paper for that day to stop her thinking it's any other day.
So, this memory loss makes the relationship with Henry everso difficult, he has fallen for her, but he has to make her fall in love with him again everyday, trying hard to break the spell, and every night Lucy forgets him. And so they continue, everyday, having their "50 First Dates".
OK, so the idea of short-term memory loss maybe slightly incredulous, she retains her long-term memory and remembers everything up to the day of the accident, it's after that, that presents the problem.
That's enough regarding the synopsis of the film, if the Groundhog Day / Chick-flick scenario intrigues you, then watch this film. It is a well written story (George Wing) and Sandler and Barrymore are ideal for their respective roles, ably supported by Rob Schneider and Sean Astin. Plus there's a cameo appearance from Dan Ackroyd as Lucys' doctor.
To be fair we really enjoyed this film, as I'm outnumbered by girls to the tune of 2 to 1, Chick-flicks and Rom-coms are always high on the list of films to watch, and I don't mind that too much, you can't beat a good laugh or cry*, and "50 First Dates" ticked those boxes.
* (Of course, I only laughed, no crying at movies for me, oh no...... what?)
Henry Roth (Adam Sandler) is an aquatic Vet living in Hawaii, he is also a womaniser, praying on single women whilst they are on vacation. That is until he bumps into Lucy Whitmore (Drew Barrymore) in the local Diner. They fall for each other and plan to see each other in the Diner for breakfast the next morning. All seems to be going to plan, when the twist in this little tale becomes apparent.
About a year ago, Lucy and her Father were in a car accident, as a result Lucy suffered some brain damage, which presents itself as short-term memory loss.
For the last year, she has been waking up thinking everyday is October the 13th. She goes through each day, doing the same things, but when she goes to sleep, she wipes the days' memory from her mind and wakes up back at the same point.
This slightly farsical notion, is enhanced by her Father and Brother, ensuring that things are put back as they were, hiding copies of the paper for that day to stop her thinking it's any other day.
So, this memory loss makes the relationship with Henry everso difficult, he has fallen for her, but he has to make her fall in love with him again everyday, trying hard to break the spell, and every night Lucy forgets him. And so they continue, everyday, having their "50 First Dates".
OK, so the idea of short-term memory loss maybe slightly incredulous, she retains her long-term memory and remembers everything up to the day of the accident, it's after that, that presents the problem.
That's enough regarding the synopsis of the film, if the Groundhog Day / Chick-flick scenario intrigues you, then watch this film. It is a well written story (George Wing) and Sandler and Barrymore are ideal for their respective roles, ably supported by Rob Schneider and Sean Astin. Plus there's a cameo appearance from Dan Ackroyd as Lucys' doctor.
To be fair we really enjoyed this film, as I'm outnumbered by girls to the tune of 2 to 1, Chick-flicks and Rom-coms are always high on the list of films to watch, and I don't mind that too much, you can't beat a good laugh or cry*, and "50 First Dates" ticked those boxes.
* (Of course, I only laughed, no crying at movies for me, oh no...... what?)
Tuesday 2 November 2010
Paul Blart - Mall Cop - 2nd November 2010
Tonight we take a look-see in to the cinematic cellar and delve deeper in to the DVD den and pull out; Paul Blart - Mall Cop!
Well I must confess that was a great movie! It was a cross between Die Hard and Scooby Doo! (Well almost).
The plot line follows the antics of Paul Blart a Security Officer at the local shopping mall. He has aspirations of becoming a State Trooper, but continually fails the entrance test. He suffers from hypoglycaemia, so ends up falling asleep all the time. And is generally ridiculed by all. So, we have sewn the seeds for the down trodden central character to become our hero!
The love interest in this movie comes from Amy (played by Jayma Mays), who runs a stall at the mall. Paul falls for her, but you know it's a relationship doomed to failure, unless Paul can do something remarkable. Cue the shopping mall being overtaken by a gang of crooks, taking Amy hostage in the process.
The crooks clear the shoppers from the mall and aim to take note of all the access codes, to all the credit card machines in the mall, thus making there millions.
Paul inadvertently gets caught in the now locked mall and so it's him versus the crooks! You see the Die Hard connection?
As usual there's no spoilers here so; will Paul get his woman? Will Paul save the day?
Watch it and find out.
It's 90 minutes of feelgood, family fun, with giggles all the way.
Well I must confess that was a great movie! It was a cross between Die Hard and Scooby Doo! (Well almost).
The plot line follows the antics of Paul Blart a Security Officer at the local shopping mall. He has aspirations of becoming a State Trooper, but continually fails the entrance test. He suffers from hypoglycaemia, so ends up falling asleep all the time. And is generally ridiculed by all. So, we have sewn the seeds for the down trodden central character to become our hero!
The love interest in this movie comes from Amy (played by Jayma Mays), who runs a stall at the mall. Paul falls for her, but you know it's a relationship doomed to failure, unless Paul can do something remarkable. Cue the shopping mall being overtaken by a gang of crooks, taking Amy hostage in the process.
The crooks clear the shoppers from the mall and aim to take note of all the access codes, to all the credit card machines in the mall, thus making there millions.
Paul inadvertently gets caught in the now locked mall and so it's him versus the crooks! You see the Die Hard connection?
As usual there's no spoilers here so; will Paul get his woman? Will Paul save the day?
Watch it and find out.
It's 90 minutes of feelgood, family fun, with giggles all the way.
Tuesday 26 October 2010
The Social Network - 26th October 2010
So, not a true Film Night tonight, instead we went to the cinema and watched a current release, which was; The Social Network. And what a cracking film it was!
The Social Network is based on the book by Ben Mezrich; "The Accidental Billionaires: Sex, Money, Betrayal and the Founding of Facebook". It stars; Jesse Eisenberg, Justin Timberlake and Rooney Mara and is based on the story of how, IT geek Mark Zuckerburg and his cohorts, who were studying at Harvard, manage to create the global phenomenon that is Facebook.
Although Mark Zuckerburg declined to be interviewed for the book, so I assume from the film also, the story is based on true events and studies the rise of the social site website from what was essentially a campus blog site, to global network with 500 million users.
It is a geeky film, some of the nerdy references maybe lost on those who are not au fait with some of the tech-speak, but the story is gripping and we swap back and forth between historical events and present judicial hearings where Zuckerburg is being sued for his delaings. Although the hearings were concluded and settlements made, I was left guessing as to whether Zuckerburg was guilty of some of the accusations made, was he just a misunderstood coding genius who had a great idea, or did he steal the idea from somebody else?.
Well worth a watch. If not at the cinema, then wait for the DVD release.
Book and DVD links;
The Social Network is based on the book by Ben Mezrich; "The Accidental Billionaires: Sex, Money, Betrayal and the Founding of Facebook". It stars; Jesse Eisenberg, Justin Timberlake and Rooney Mara and is based on the story of how, IT geek Mark Zuckerburg and his cohorts, who were studying at Harvard, manage to create the global phenomenon that is Facebook.
Although Mark Zuckerburg declined to be interviewed for the book, so I assume from the film also, the story is based on true events and studies the rise of the social site website from what was essentially a campus blog site, to global network with 500 million users.
It is a geeky film, some of the nerdy references maybe lost on those who are not au fait with some of the tech-speak, but the story is gripping and we swap back and forth between historical events and present judicial hearings where Zuckerburg is being sued for his delaings. Although the hearings were concluded and settlements made, I was left guessing as to whether Zuckerburg was guilty of some of the accusations made, was he just a misunderstood coding genius who had a great idea, or did he steal the idea from somebody else?.
Well worth a watch. If not at the cinema, then wait for the DVD release.
Book and DVD links;
Tuesday 19 October 2010
Me, Myself and Irene - 19th October 2010
Tonights' celluloid selection, is the Farrelly Brothers' movie; "Me, Myself and Irene", with Jim Carrey and Renee Zellweger.
Well, what can I say about this film? It was very crude and rude, with quite a lot of swearing and cursing! We loved it!!
Laugh out loud stuff, Jim Carrey at his inimitable best and Renee Zellweger at her cutest.
The film follows the story of Charlie (Carrey) who is a police officer with the Rhode Island Police Force. After 18 years of taking abuse and being laughed at, he finally flips and turns schizophrenic, with his alter ego; Hank being everything that Charlie isn't.
What ensues is a road trip with a difference as Hank / Charlie and Irene (Zellweger) are on the run from the (crooked) FBI.
I won't go into the plot too much, as it's best to watch it, but there is a gag every minute and a laugh out loud moment every 5. At one point I was in tears, I won't spoil it, but a police officer falls foul (fowl) of a chicken!
We're not the biggest Jim Carrey fans, so were concerned that the over animated comedy from Carrey would over shadow the film, but it was actually perfect for the story and ideal for the schizophrenic character.
Great film!
Well, what can I say about this film? It was very crude and rude, with quite a lot of swearing and cursing! We loved it!!
Laugh out loud stuff, Jim Carrey at his inimitable best and Renee Zellweger at her cutest.
The film follows the story of Charlie (Carrey) who is a police officer with the Rhode Island Police Force. After 18 years of taking abuse and being laughed at, he finally flips and turns schizophrenic, with his alter ego; Hank being everything that Charlie isn't.
What ensues is a road trip with a difference as Hank / Charlie and Irene (Zellweger) are on the run from the (crooked) FBI.
I won't go into the plot too much, as it's best to watch it, but there is a gag every minute and a laugh out loud moment every 5. At one point I was in tears, I won't spoil it, but a police officer falls foul (fowl) of a chicken!
We're not the biggest Jim Carrey fans, so were concerned that the over animated comedy from Carrey would over shadow the film, but it was actually perfect for the story and ideal for the schizophrenic character.
Great film!
Tuesday 12 October 2010
The Core - 12th October 2010
Tuesday night has come around again and the film for tonight is; The Core.
After a series of strange events around the world connected by variances in the Earth's electromagnetic field, scientists, led by Dr. Josh Keyes (Aaron Eckhart) and Conrad Zimsky (Stanley Tucci), discover that the Earth's molten core is slowly coming to a stop; without its rotation, the electromagnetic field around the earth will disappear, exposing the surface to the unfiltered solar radiation and will incinerate anything or anyone exposed to it. Keyes and Zimsky are charged to find a way to restart the core, which will require traveling deep into the Earth and setting off nuclear charges to induce rotational force.
OK that's was the synopsis of the film, in reality this one was maybe a little too far fetched for me. Yes, it's science fiction, yes, it's a disaster movie, but;
The Earths' core stops spinning?
A Space Shuttle lands in downtown LA?
They build a nuclear drill out of "Unobtainium"?
The Golden Gate bridge melts?
However, having said that and giving it the benefit of the doubt, I enjoyed this film and for several reasons, for one although I'm not a big sci-fi fan, this film kept me gripped and shouting encouragement at the screen! I wanted them to make it!
Also, it was funny, not intentionally, but there were parts where we all burst out laughing, mainly at absurdity of some of the ideas. Thousands of pigeons in Trafalgar Square losing their bearings and flying into buildings, cars and buses!
OK, so it was over the top and reality was like the Earths Core; a long way away, but it entertained, it held us, it scared us, it sucked us in. Aaron Eckhart and Hilary Swank played their roles with aplomb.
All a bit weird, all a bit strange, but worth a look, if you get the chance.
Tuesday 5 October 2010
The Wedding Planner - 5th October 2010
Tonight we have The Wedding Planner, starring Jennifer Lopez and Matthew McConaughey.
Well, as romantic comedies go, this one ticks all the boxes. For the ladies, you have the chiselled good looks of Matthew McConaughey and his Southern drawl accent all the way through the film. And for the lads there is bea-butt-iful Jennifer Lopez being rather serene playing the lead role of the Wedding Planner.
The storyline is pretty much as you'd expect;
Wedding Planner accidentily and unknowingly falls for the Groom.
The Groom sticks with the Bride.
The Wedding Planner ends up going to marry someone else for no good reason.
And then.............
Well, if you haven't seen it, then I shan't spoil it.
At the end of the day, we liked this film, there's some good laugh out loud moments, it was filmed on location in San Francisco, so bought back memories of our recent holiday and there's a happy ending! Whoops, have I said too much?
You'll enjoy the film if you get chance to see it.
Well, as romantic comedies go, this one ticks all the boxes. For the ladies, you have the chiselled good looks of Matthew McConaughey and his Southern drawl accent all the way through the film. And for the lads there is bea-butt-iful Jennifer Lopez being rather serene playing the lead role of the Wedding Planner.
The storyline is pretty much as you'd expect;
Wedding Planner accidentily and unknowingly falls for the Groom.
The Groom sticks with the Bride.
The Wedding Planner ends up going to marry someone else for no good reason.
And then.............
Well, if you haven't seen it, then I shan't spoil it.
At the end of the day, we liked this film, there's some good laugh out loud moments, it was filmed on location in San Francisco, so bought back memories of our recent holiday and there's a happy ending! Whoops, have I said too much?
You'll enjoy the film if you get chance to see it.
Tuesday 28 September 2010
The Queen - 28th September 2010
Tonight's film is the regal drama; The Queen, starring Helen Mirren and Michael Sheen.
Well, my initial dubious thoughts about this film were blown away, the performances put in by Helen Mirren and Michael Sheen were amazing. I am a big fan of Michael Sheen, beacause he adds that extra layer of believability when he plays a well known person in a film.
For instance; his portrayal of Brian Clough, in The Damned United was first class. And his Tony Blair in The Queen was spot on as well, he captured his mannerisms, his smile and exuberance.
The same can be said for the lovely Helen Mirren. It is clearly not essential to portray your character just like the real person, but if you think that they are the Queen, then you get drawn into the film so much more. Mirren did this for me with her portrayal of HRH, making the fictional play on the facts that much more enjoyable.
Kudos should go to Director Stephen Frears and Writer Peter Morgan, for bridging the gap between fact and fiction and back again. Yes, we all know the facts surrounding the death of Diana, and the perceived uncaring nature of the monarchy immediately after.
Is this entirely true?
Did the Queen intentionally stay away from London?
Did she refuse to have the Royal Standard flag flown at half mast over Buckingham Palace?
Did she not want to make a public statement regarding the death of Diana?
Whatever the reasons for her actions, we'll probably never know, but this film gives a stab surmising the reality and does so in a dramatic fashion. Showing Tony Blair in a good light and the Royal Family in a distinctly bad one.
However, at the end of the film, I think the Queen comes out on top and was portrayed in a more favourable light, certainly within the context of the story.
As I say, this is purely a fictionalised spin on the events that happened, whether there is a thread of truth in it, who knows, but I would love to think that when Prince Phillip gets in to bed with the Queen at night, that he does say; "Move over Cabbage"!
If you were affected by the events of the summer of 1997, and who wasn't? Even the most uncaring person, could not have missed the outpouring of grief that occured. Then this is a delightful and poignant film to watch, whether you believe any of the fiction or not.
Well, my initial dubious thoughts about this film were blown away, the performances put in by Helen Mirren and Michael Sheen were amazing. I am a big fan of Michael Sheen, beacause he adds that extra layer of believability when he plays a well known person in a film.
For instance; his portrayal of Brian Clough, in The Damned United was first class. And his Tony Blair in The Queen was spot on as well, he captured his mannerisms, his smile and exuberance.
The same can be said for the lovely Helen Mirren. It is clearly not essential to portray your character just like the real person, but if you think that they are the Queen, then you get drawn into the film so much more. Mirren did this for me with her portrayal of HRH, making the fictional play on the facts that much more enjoyable.
Kudos should go to Director Stephen Frears and Writer Peter Morgan, for bridging the gap between fact and fiction and back again. Yes, we all know the facts surrounding the death of Diana, and the perceived uncaring nature of the monarchy immediately after.
Is this entirely true?
Did the Queen intentionally stay away from London?
Did she refuse to have the Royal Standard flag flown at half mast over Buckingham Palace?
Did she not want to make a public statement regarding the death of Diana?
Whatever the reasons for her actions, we'll probably never know, but this film gives a stab surmising the reality and does so in a dramatic fashion. Showing Tony Blair in a good light and the Royal Family in a distinctly bad one.
However, at the end of the film, I think the Queen comes out on top and was portrayed in a more favourable light, certainly within the context of the story.
As I say, this is purely a fictionalised spin on the events that happened, whether there is a thread of truth in it, who knows, but I would love to think that when Prince Phillip gets in to bed with the Queen at night, that he does say; "Move over Cabbage"!
If you were affected by the events of the summer of 1997, and who wasn't? Even the most uncaring person, could not have missed the outpouring of grief that occured. Then this is a delightful and poignant film to watch, whether you believe any of the fiction or not.
Tuesday 21 September 2010
Nancy Drew - 21st September 2010
Tonight we have the mystery adventure from 2007; Nancy Drew.
OK, Nancy Drew was a little disappointing, it wasn't the mystery I was hoping for, but then I should have guessed that, as it really is a film for kids.
Having said that, it was good in parts and Emma Roberts (who played Nancy) had a cutesy charm about her. The storyline was thin and flimsy, the supporting cast a little wooden, the Corky character was just plain annoying. So not a film that will be high on the replay list.
However, at the end of the day, if you look at the movie in it's rightful context, which is a kids drama / comedy (a dramedy, if you will), it ticks all the boxes and for a family film, which is what we like, it kept us all entertained.
OK, Nancy Drew was a little disappointing, it wasn't the mystery I was hoping for, but then I should have guessed that, as it really is a film for kids.
Having said that, it was good in parts and Emma Roberts (who played Nancy) had a cutesy charm about her. The storyline was thin and flimsy, the supporting cast a little wooden, the Corky character was just plain annoying. So not a film that will be high on the replay list.
However, at the end of the day, if you look at the movie in it's rightful context, which is a kids drama / comedy (a dramedy, if you will), it ticks all the boxes and for a family film, which is what we like, it kept us all entertained.
Monday 20 September 2010
Cheaper By The Dozen - 14th September 2010
Tonight we're back to the Family Fun Flicks, with the Steve Martin comedy; Cheaper By The Dozen.
As the title alludes, with a dozen kids to contend with Tom & Kate Baker (Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt), have their work cut out and when Tom lands his dream job, as Coach of a University football team, the family up sticks and moves to a new bigger town house, away from their friends and the kids schools.
And when Kates' book gets published and requires a tour for promotion, Tom is left at home to keep down a job and look after the kids. Not easy!
The film has a crowd-pleasing supporting cast, including rising young stars Hilary Duff and Piper Perabo, this heart-warming hit comedy delivers super-sized fun and laughs by the dozen!
As the title alludes, with a dozen kids to contend with Tom & Kate Baker (Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt), have their work cut out and when Tom lands his dream job, as Coach of a University football team, the family up sticks and moves to a new bigger town house, away from their friends and the kids schools.
And when Kates' book gets published and requires a tour for promotion, Tom is left at home to keep down a job and look after the kids. Not easy!
The film has a crowd-pleasing supporting cast, including rising young stars Hilary Duff and Piper Perabo, this heart-warming hit comedy delivers super-sized fun and laughs by the dozen!
The Pursuit of Happyness - 7th September 2010
Back we go to the "Feelgood" genre and to what can only be described as one of the best feelgood films of recent years, it's; The Pursuit of Happyness.
Great film, and great lead performance by the not-so Fresh Prince; Will Smith.
Smith plays an out of luck salesman (Chris Gardner), trying to sell useless bone density scanners to local hospitals. However, lack of sales and spiralling debt forces his Wife (Thandie Newton), out of the marital home leaving Gardner and his son (played by Jaden Smith, Will Smiths' real-life Son) to fend for themselves.
What happens next is disaster after disaster for Father and Son, as they lose their home and money and end up on the streets. All the while Chris Gardner is fighting to get, keep and maintain an internship with a local brokerage firm.
Based on the real life of Chris Gardner who went onto become a wealthy Chicago businessman.
Will Smith is a delight, as is his son Jaden. The story is perfect, with Gardner suffering knock back, after knock back, (almost too many to be true), but the viewer is willing him to succeed and make a name for himself and provide a home for his son.
Great film! Buy it and watch it, now!!
Great film, and great lead performance by the not-so Fresh Prince; Will Smith.
Smith plays an out of luck salesman (Chris Gardner), trying to sell useless bone density scanners to local hospitals. However, lack of sales and spiralling debt forces his Wife (Thandie Newton), out of the marital home leaving Gardner and his son (played by Jaden Smith, Will Smiths' real-life Son) to fend for themselves.
What happens next is disaster after disaster for Father and Son, as they lose their home and money and end up on the streets. All the while Chris Gardner is fighting to get, keep and maintain an internship with a local brokerage firm.
Based on the real life of Chris Gardner who went onto become a wealthy Chicago businessman.
Will Smith is a delight, as is his son Jaden. The story is perfect, with Gardner suffering knock back, after knock back, (almost too many to be true), but the viewer is willing him to succeed and make a name for himself and provide a home for his son.
Great film! Buy it and watch it, now!!
Miss Potter - 31st August 2010
Tonights' film has been hanging around on the Sky+ box for sometime and kept getting overlooked, but not tonight, no no, tonight we had the pleasure to watch; Miss Potter.
This was a bit of a change to have a charming period drama, interspersed with some romance, comedy and tragedy. Renee Zellweger confidently takes the leading role and brings to life the story of the creator of Peter Rabbit; Beatrix Potter. Not only do we get an insight into the life of Miss Potter, but we are also provided with a stunning back drop of the English countryside.
It's a charming story, as well as a charming film and well worth a look if you get the chance.
This was a bit of a change to have a charming period drama, interspersed with some romance, comedy and tragedy. Renee Zellweger confidently takes the leading role and brings to life the story of the creator of Peter Rabbit; Beatrix Potter. Not only do we get an insight into the life of Miss Potter, but we are also provided with a stunning back drop of the English countryside.
It's a charming story, as well as a charming film and well worth a look if you get the chance.
National Lampoons: Vegas Vacation - 24th August 2010
OK, to mark our return from our USA holidays, we picked a themed film for tonight, and the only one we had was; National Lampoons: Vegas Vacation.
Pretty bog standard stuff for Chevy Chase and the National Lampoon team. It tells of the comedic antics of the Griswold family as they take Las Vegas by the throat and give it a good shake! (So to speak).
We much prefer the Christmas Vacation, but the Vegas Vacation still had laughs a plenty.
Worth a viewing if it's repeated soon on Channel 5.
Pretty bog standard stuff for Chevy Chase and the National Lampoon team. It tells of the comedic antics of the Griswold family as they take Las Vegas by the throat and give it a good shake! (So to speak).
We much prefer the Christmas Vacation, but the Vegas Vacation still had laughs a plenty.
Worth a viewing if it's repeated soon on Channel 5.
Catch Me If You Can - 27th July 2010
This weeks' film is another corker!
Yes indeed. It is the "inspired by a true story" tale; Catch Me If You Can.
It's the story of Frank Abagnale Jnr, played by the lovely Leonardo di Caprio. Abagnale is a mature-looking teenager who spent the 1960s as a conman, passing himself off as an airline pilot to get free flights. Also holding down a job as supervisor in an Emergency Room.
Then he even passes a bar exam after only two weeks' study. All the while he is dealing in forged cheques.
As his illicit earnings spiral up above 4 million dollars, Frank is dogged by FBI agent Hanratty (Tom Hanks), a plodder who begins to have a relationship with his quarry. Abagnale even takes to politely ringing Hanratty every Christmas, just to catch up.
Yes indeed. It is the "inspired by a true story" tale; Catch Me If You Can.
It's the story of Frank Abagnale Jnr, played by the lovely Leonardo di Caprio. Abagnale is a mature-looking teenager who spent the 1960s as a conman, passing himself off as an airline pilot to get free flights. Also holding down a job as supervisor in an Emergency Room.
Then he even passes a bar exam after only two weeks' study. All the while he is dealing in forged cheques.
As his illicit earnings spiral up above 4 million dollars, Frank is dogged by FBI agent Hanratty (Tom Hanks), a plodder who begins to have a relationship with his quarry. Abagnale even takes to politely ringing Hanratty every Christmas, just to catch up.
Loved this film, which is not surprising, as it stars Tom Hanks. And I'll say it again; "I've never seen a bad Tom Hanks film"!
If you haven't seen it, get it now!
If you haven't seen it, get it now!
Evan Almighty - 20th July 2010
To follow on from the previous "God for a week" film; Bruce Almighty, we progress on to the sequel Evan Almighty.
This time, Evan Baxter (Steve Carell) who is no longer in TV, but has risen to the heights of an elected official in the government, is chosen by God (yet again played by the superb Morgan Freeman), to build an ark.
Not so sure that Evan, is almighty as Bruce, film wise, but it was an enjoyable comedy and one where another viewing maybe worthwhile.
This time, Evan Baxter (Steve Carell) who is no longer in TV, but has risen to the heights of an elected official in the government, is chosen by God (yet again played by the superb Morgan Freeman), to build an ark.
Not so sure that Evan, is almighty as Bruce, film wise, but it was an enjoyable comedy and one where another viewing maybe worthwhile.
One Hour Photo - 13th July 2010
A change of mood this week, as we delve into the deep dark waters of psychological thriller; One Hour Photo.
Robin Williams drops the comic mantle and plays the obsessed Sy Parrish, the "photo guy" from the local super store.
After being fired from the job he loved; in store photo processing, Sy takes on a psychotic demeanour and when he discovers some sordid secret relating to a family he has stalked via their photo's. From here he plots some revenge for the cheating husband.
This is a far cry from the likes of Mrs Doubtfire and Williams throws in an absolute top notch performance.
Not normally my cup of tea, but this thriller is fascinating and frightening, a real must see movie in my book.
Robin Williams drops the comic mantle and plays the obsessed Sy Parrish, the "photo guy" from the local super store.
After being fired from the job he loved; in store photo processing, Sy takes on a psychotic demeanour and when he discovers some sordid secret relating to a family he has stalked via their photo's. From here he plots some revenge for the cheating husband.
This is a far cry from the likes of Mrs Doubtfire and Williams throws in an absolute top notch performance.
Not normally my cup of tea, but this thriller is fascinating and frightening, a real must see movie in my book.
Nowhere Boy - 6th July 2010
Now we're talking! Tonight's film was Nowhere Boy. A fantastic, fascinating and true to life biopic of the young John Lennon.
The teenage Lennon is portrayed outstandingly well by; Aaron Johnson. Whilst the gorgeous Kristen Scott-Thomas plays the straight-laced, no nonsense Aunt Mimi.
Some may say that Nowhere Boy shows the teenage Lennon in a bad light, but it is true to how he was at that time.
Great film, great cast and some great music. 10 out of 10!
The teenage Lennon is portrayed outstandingly well by; Aaron Johnson. Whilst the gorgeous Kristen Scott-Thomas plays the straight-laced, no nonsense Aunt Mimi.
Some may say that Nowhere Boy shows the teenage Lennon in a bad light, but it is true to how he was at that time.
Great film, great cast and some great music. 10 out of 10!
Bruce Almighty - 29th June 2010
Tonight’s film was Bruce Almighty, with Jim Carrey, Jenifer Aniston and the marvellous Morgan Freeman.
Carrey plays the down-at-luck news reporter Bruce Nolan. When Nolan misses out on the position of anchor man on the local TV station, he demands, from God, an answer as to why. God, ably played by Morgan Freeman pays Nolan a visit and bestows upon him the power of God, whilst God takes a vacation.
Sunday 19 September 2010
The Invention of Lying - 22nd June 2010
Another Ricky Gervais film tonight, it is; The Invention of Lying from 2009.
We do like Ricky Gervais, although he tends to play the same character in the movies he is in. This one is slightly different as the character is not so arrogant as the previous characters Gervais has portrayed.
Synopsis;
It's a world where everyone tells the truth - and just about anything they're thinking. Mark Bellison (Gervais) is a screenwriter, about to be fired. He's short and chunky with a flat nose - a genetic pool that means he won't get to first base with Anna, the woman he loves. At a bank, on the spur of the moment he blurts out a fib, with eye-popping results. Then, when his mother's on her deathbed, frightened of the eternal void awaiting her, Mark invents fiction. The hospital staff overhear his description of Heaven, believe every word, and tell others. Soon Mark is a prophet, his first inventive screenplay makes him rich, and he's basically a good guy. But will that be enough for Anna?
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