TV review - Blackout (Channel 4)

"Completely gripping" - Daniel Himsworth.

Blackout is the 'what-if' story that explores the result of a cyber attack on the electrical grid in the UK; which subsequently leaves the nation without power for a week. The show is shot completely with the use of CCTV, real life footage and fictional scenes that follow the lives of a variety of people who attempt to keep themselves fed and watered in a time of anarchy. The characters' accounts show the effect such a disaster would have on the countries hospitals, transport systems, law and order and simply the difficulty of getting food and water.

Blackout was gripping throughout, giving a grim and somewhat realistic portrayal of a country without power. At a time where it seems the whole country spends every possible minute on their phone, Blackout shows us the real danger behind a lack of electricity. Rather than the biggest worry being that you cannot charge your mobile and update your Facebook status, the programme quickly focuses on the hunt for survival and at what point does it become OK for morals to be thrown out the window and for society to crumble.

In the last paragraph I mentioned that Blackout was 'somewhat realistic', and I say somewhat because it just feels that the show jumps into anarchy very very quickly. Not only this but everybody seems to be owning smartphones that have batteries that are lasting a week, I don't know about you but the battery on my smartphone doesn't even last a day.

In terms of accuracy, I suppose Blackout's portrayal of the governments response (or lack of) to the situation was fairly justifiable, with the programme showing no confidence in our current leaders. However, Blackout seems to show the same lack of confidence in the people of Britain, suggesting that as soon as disaster hits we would turn on each other. Although this seems likely when looking at a long-term disaster, a week long power-cut doesn't really send a wave of panic through my body.

Blackout is available to watch on 4od.

J.Henderson.

6/10.

US Sitcoms are back!

Talking about the best US Sitcoms and they're return to our televisions.

How I Met Your Mother - Season 9 -23rd Sept. Neil Patrick Harris, Josh Radnor, Jason Segal.

It's time for the US sitcoms to come back to our TVs and, for me, this is one of the best times of the year.

How I Met Your Mother left us on a bombshell last season when we found out what 'the mother' looks like. We found out that Cristin Milioti is playing the mother and, furthermore, that she has been promoted as a season regular for this, the ninth and final season of the long running sitcom. The season will open on 23rd September on CBS with two half-hour episodes.

Co-creator Craig Thomas said in an interview that season 9 will be like "the Wild West - anything can happen", with the whole season being set over a complete weekend leading up to Barney and Robin's wedding.

I expect a lot to be released about the mother very quickly with a final season that is bound to excite us from start to finish. Check out the season nine promo below...

Films to watch out for...

Joseph Gordon-Levitt's directorial debut is next...

Don Jon. UK Release - Nov 15th. Director - Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

Don Jon is the story of Jon Martello (Gordon-Levitt), a man whose addiction to porn has left him objectifying woman. Due to his countless one-night stands, Jon is dissatisfied with his life and starts to search for higher meaning and an enjoyable sex life.

I am extremely excited for Joseph Gordon-Levitt's directorial debut, other actors must be also as he has attracted a strong cast for this comedy. Scarlett Johansson and Julianne Moore are the leading ladies in this picture that is filled with top-notch cameos such as Anne Hathaway, Channing Tatum and Cuba Gooding Jr.

Gordon-Levitt is also helping to produce this movie via his production company, hitRECord, and also wrote the screenplay for this picture that he is directing and being the lead actor in. There is a lot on his plate for this film but as of yet it has been getting good reviews from a number of critics already.

Check out the trailer below...

Films to watch out for...

Possibly the comedy event of the year....

Anchorman: The Legend Continues. Release - Dec 20th. Director - Adam McKay.

Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004) is probably one of most recognisable and most quoted films of all time. It's success was due to the hilarity created by Will Ferrell and director and co-writer Adam McKay. The pair created a group of characters so ridiculously funny that they shaped comedy for a generation, with similar comedic films such as The 40-Year Old Virgin (2005), Blades of Glory (2007) and Step Brothers (2008) benefiting from the following that Anchorman gained.

All the main cast have returned for the sequel which is again directed by Adam McKay and produced by comedic genius Judd Apatow. Although I am not sure whether the film will be able to live up to the hype created by the first film, I am looking forward to the huge number of cameos expected in the film including, Liam Neeson, Will Smith, Harrison Ford and Sacha Baron Cohen to name a few.

I expect the same peculiar and ridiculous comedy that hit us hard almost a decade ago.

Check out the trailer below...

Pain and Gain - 2013 - Mark Wahlberg, Dwayne Johnson, Anthony Mackie.

I just wasn't truly interested at any moment.

Director Michael Bay (Armageddon (1998) and Transformers (2007)) brings us Pain and Gain, a remarkably true story from 1990s Miami where a group of body-builders, consisting of Daniel Lugo (Wahlberg), Paul Doyle (Johnson) and Adrian Doorbal (Mackie), chase the American dream but end up getting caught up in the criminal life they created for themselves and their lives begin to unravel.

Main man Daniel Lugo is a gym instructor who simply wants to create a better life that would compliment his astounding physic. With the words of self-help guru Johnny Wu (Ken Jeong) ringing in his ears, Lugo and his gym buddies attempt a snatch and grab of one of Lugo's outrageously wealthy clients.

My main issue with this film is that I just wasn't truly interested at any moment. Pain and Gain wasn't funny enough to be a comedy film and did not stick true to any dramatic/thriller elements. I felt like I was going through the motions whilst watching this film, never being particularly bored but never wowed. At times I was slightly confused by this movie, with sudden irregular actions such as the barbecuing of human hands and spontaneous bench pressing at unnecessary moments.

Overall the film was extremely disappointing and I feel it would have benefited by either fully committing to being a comedy or, the opposite, being a proper crime thriller.

My only real positive for this picture was Michael Bay's use of the camera, the best of which coming during a scene where Lugo is attempting to push through a fake deal with a wealthy businessman and things end up turning sour. Bay successfully and fluidly moves the camera through three rooms continuously, allowing a huge contrast of emotions being available to see in one motion.

The mixing of genres really hinders this film, and is one I definitely won't be buying on DVD or recommending to friends.

4/10

J.Henderson.

Films to watch out for....

I couldn't forget this.... The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. Release - Dec 13th. Director - Peter Jackson.

The hype surrounding this film is simply massive and is the second film in a trilogy based on J.R.R Tolkien's book, The Hobbit. The first in the trilogy, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012), was a bit of a let down, with film length and the high frame rate coming into question. Overall the film just didn't live up to the expectations that were put in place after The Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

However, I feel that The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug will be received much better from critics as the film will get straight into the nitty gritty of the story and will hopefully show the full potential of the high frame rate.

Everything is in place for this picture to be the biggest blockbuster of the year, I can't see how it won't be. Expect great special effects and an unbelievable cast. Check out the trailer below...

Films to watch out for...

Next on the list....

Captain Phillips. Release - Oct 11th. Director - Paul Greengrass.

Captain Phillips is a picture that I am really looking forward to. I am a huge fan of Tom Hanks (Forrest Gump (1994) and Castaway (2000)), who takes the leading role in this action-thriller. The film is a biopic of Captain Richard Phillips (Hanks) who was taken hostage by Somalian pirates. This is a horrifyingly true story of what occurred during the Maersk Alabama hijacking in 2009.

Director of The Bourne Supremacy (2004) and The Bourne Ultimatum (2007) Paul Greengrass directs this picture, and his appointment almost guarantees a full-throttled and emotional account of the events of 2009. I expect an accurate and harrowing portrayal of the hijacking, and I have also read that Hanks gives one of his greatest performances yet.

I recommend watching the 2006 movie United 93 (one of the top films of 2006) which was directed by Greengrass. This is a film that really shows off Greengrass' ability behind the camera and gives you a clue at what to expect in Captain Phillips.

Check out the trailer for Captain Phillips here....

Films to watch out for...

Over the next few days I will be letting you know of my recommendations for upcoming films in the UK, first up..... The Counselor.

The Counselor. UK Release - Oct 25th. Director - Ridley Scott.

The Counselor is the upcoming picture from Gladiator (2000) and Prometheus (2012) director Ridley Scott. This thriller stars the utterly brilliant Michael Fassbender (Shame (2011) and Prometheus) as a lawyer who gets in deep when he decides to get involved with drug trafficking.

Scott has again attracted a stellar cast which includes Academy Award winners Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem, four-time Academy Award nominee Brad Pitt and the Golden Globe nominated Cameron Diaz. This A-list cast is destined to produce breathtaking acting performances and with Scott at the helm they are in the safe hands of an Oscar winner.

Scott has shown that he likes a strong female lead in the past, and it looks again from the trailer that this trait is set to continue.

The Counselor is set to be a blockbuster.

Ben Affleck as Batman... really?

When I first heard about a film with Superman vs Batman I'm not going to lie, I feared the worst. My initial thoughts where of a film that was so overly hyped that it could never live up to the expectations of every comic book and superhero movie fan. Even now as I write this I know that this is a very likely possibility, but the more I thought about it two things stopped me from dooming the film from the outset. First of all, reports this week are that Christopher Nolan will not be involved, which automatically brings the expectation down a level. Nolan has single handedly changed the face of Superhero films by bringing a much darker and deeper aspect to this genre of film. And secondly, Ben Affleck is Batman. That's all I need to say really.

If you haven't guessed by now I do not feel that Affleck is a good choice for the role of Batman. If I'm honest I think it's way to early to be even thinking about having Batman in a film for another 10 years, and here is why. Christopher Nolan's world that he created for Batman is a world that is so much different to anything we have seen before. In the past Batman films have been comical and fairly light hearted, whereas Nolan turned that on its head and created the darkest of Dark Knights. Batman Begins (2005) set the scene, giving us an origin story to the caped crusader. Next came arguably the greatest superhero movie of all time, at least I believe so, The Dark Knight (2008), whereby Nolan released Health Ledger's Joker which, to the surprise of many, smashed the legacy left by Jack Nicholson 19 years previous. I think it is important to reiterate that 19 years had passed from Jack Nicholson's phenomenal performance as The Joker to the breathtaking portrayal given by Heath Ledger. In them 19 years people had by no means forgotten how brilliant Nicholson's performance was but everyone was ready for something new. Everyone knew the pressure was high on Ledger but what he did with the character was simply unforgettable.

Now, everyone will agree that Christian Bale was an exceptional Batman, his temper tantrums off camera only acted as a positive in terms of creating a darker and more convincing Batman. It may prove that Affleck is a perfectly good Batman but what he does not have is a 19 year gap to let people settle before a re-boot. However, as we all know, this is not how Hollywood works. With the earnings that Nolan's Batman trilogy brought in, and the well deserved hype and fan following that follows, no film company where ever going to not try and gain as much cash as they could before the superhero boom we find ourselves in dies down. Especially DC Comics who are desperately trying to keep up with Marvel.

To touch back on Affleck and why I feel he is the wrong choice as Batman. His appointment as the Dark Knight only brings more pressure and hype on a film that does not need it. Choosing an actor that is not constantly in the limelight would knock down the expectation just a little and allow the fans to sit back and say, "OK, let's see if he's any good." Yet with Academy Award winning Affleck, expectations are higher than ever. A friend recently said to me that Affleck is a better director that he is an actor and I couldn't agree more. I am a big fan of his 2010 film The Town, and that was not due to his acting as he was completely outshone by Jeremy Renner and Rebecca Hall, yet the way he captured Boston was one of the highlights of the film. 

I definitely would not like to have been casting director for this film as I don't think I could stand the pressure of being the person responsible for choosing who should fill the cape of Christian Bale, but please leave a comment on who you think should have been cast as the new Batman. Or whether you think Affleck is the right choice!

I'm back! With much more....

So I haven't done a post since 28th May 2013, which has been way too long. I would like to say I've been busy but that would be a lie. But whatever the reason my film reviews are back and I have decided on adding a few more features to my blog.

Instead of keeping myself fixed on movie reviews I have decided to broaden my scope and will be discussing the latest news coming out of Hollywood, such as the decision to cast Ben Affleck as Batman, and also focusing more on television due to the enormity of shows such as Breaking Bad and Game of Thrones.

From time to time I will be addressing what's new in the gaming world, and with the arrival of the PS4 and Xbox One closing in on us I will be keeping you informed of what to expect from the new age of gaming and addressing which would be better to buy in the lead up to Christmas.

As before, not only will I be reviewing the latest films to hit the cinemas but I will also look back at those classic films (and now TV programmes and games) that we cannot forget.

I will be posting more than ever and please leave comments to let me know what you think!

Fast and Furious 6 - 2013 - Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson.

Ridiculous beyond belief.

The Fast and Furious franchise returns following Dom (Vin Diesel) and Brian's (Paul Walker) Rio heist that left their crew with $100 million. The crew has dispersed all around the globe lapping up the lifestyle they now lead, whilst still watching their back for the cops and wishing for something that would bring the 'family' back together. Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) has been tracking an group of elite mercenary drivers, whose mastermind (Luke Evans) has the help of the love Dom believed to be dead, Letty (Michelle Rodriguez). Hobbs asks Dom for the help of him and his crew in exchange for full pardons, something that would allow his family to become whole again.

Director Justin Lin definitely brings an addition to the series that will be enjoyed by all die-hard F&F fans. However, for the neutrals such as myself, Fast and Furious 6 is painfully disappointing with action and dialogue that is farcical. During one scene a tank is driving down a highway demolishing every car in sight, every car until the car of one of Dom's crew members, who has plenty of time to get saved. Also in this scene Vin Diesel gets propelled from his car and catches Rodriguez mid-air at high speed and lands on a car windscreen. This action is just completely ridiculous with the greatest laughable action sequence coming at the end of the movie where the crew is chasing down a plane preparing to take off from a runway; a perfectly good scene with great action, other than the fact that the plane takes a good 25-30 minutes to get down the runway! I'm all for trying something new but try and make it believable.

Screenwriter Chris Morgan also delivers an extremely poor script, and when combined with below par performances from the cast, it just becomes horrible to watch. Diesel seems to be getting more deadpan with the more films that he does. When deciding its time for him to give a little grin, it just feels out of place. With regards to Walker, I simply forgot he was there. Dwayne Johnson puts in a better performance than both put together, yet his size is slightly off-putting; his huge stature simply takes up the equally huge cinema screen.

For any petrol heads the film has the shop talk and the chases to keep you interested and keen for the next instalment, but for the neutral like myself, the movie just disappoints with its woefully unbelievable action sequences and dialogue.

J.Henderson.

4/10. 

Iron Man 3 - 2013 - Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Ben Kingsley.

Solid sequel, the end of Downey Jr. as Iron Man?

Shane Black takes over from Jon Favreau as director in the third instalment of this Iron Man trilogy. Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) finds his world left in ruin at the hands of a villain, The Mandarin (Ben Kingsley), whose resources show no limits. This journey to save all he cares about will leave Stark to his own devices, having to rely on himself instead of his machines in order to progress.

Director and co-writer Shane Black deliver a strong addition to the franchise, creating great humour in the script tied with action and plot twists that will definitely capture the attention of the audience. Saying this however, Black takes longer than usual to get the film settled and rolling, with this only coming quite a way into the film once Stark has hit rock bottom and seeks the help of a young child in Tennessee (the very good, Ty Simpkins). What sets this film away from the others in the series is its move to a darker atmosphere, going down the root of Christopher Nolan's superhero giant and doing it well. The darker, more serious story is extremely fashionable at the minute, with Man Of Steel (2013) looking to be going a similar way.

It feels like the characters have grown up, becoming serious in their approach as Pepper (Gwyneth Paltrow) and Tony produce considerably more than just their repartee of banter and are now a true partnership that sees Pepper as the head of Stark Industries. Acting throughout the film is extremely strong with Ben Kingsley completely capturing the eye; his ability to control the screen reminding me of that of Heath Ledger's Joker. Robert Downey Jr. is given a script that allows him to continue his quick fire wit that has become something of a trademark of his. Moving out from the directors chair Jon Favreau takes up more of an acting role as Happy Hogan, creating a sincere lovable humour.

A solid superhero movie, but nothing on The Avengers (2012) or Nolan's Batman Trilogy (05-12).

J.Henderson.

7/10.

Gone in Sixty Seconds - 2000 - Nicolas Cage, Angelina Jolie.

Needs to look back at the classic car chase movies.

A remake of the 1974 indie hit, Gone in Sixty Seconds follows the life of master car thief Randall 'Memphis' Raines (Nicolas Cage). After a successful career as a car thief Memphis decides to give up the criminal lifestyle, knowing there is no long term future in the game. However, when his younger brother Kip (Giovanni Ribisi) gets on the wrong side of Brit crime boss Raymond Calitri (Christopher Eccleston), Memphis has no choice but to get back into business and style 50 luxury cars in 24 hours. With the help of his team, can Memphis save his brother?

Director Dominic Sena's big budget re-do of the 1974 movie is quite frankly a let down. Not to say the 1974 production was quality, it wasn't, it lacked real character depth and invested too much into its action, but it seems that Sena's Gone in Sixty Seconds is attempting to make up for those mistakes but instead focuses too heavily on the characters and plot and only allows for a small amount of car action. The film, released in 2000, lacks any real spark or suspense, which is a shame as I feel Gone in 60 Seconds (1974) was a good film to remake.

The acting throughout the movie is what saves the film to a degree, when you realise that you cannot attempt to take the film seriously you can sit back and enjoy the extremely watch-able Nicolas Cage and an impressive supporting cast which includes Angelina Jolie, a favourite of mine, Giovanni Ribisi, Robert Duvall and Will Patton. The character who stood out most for me was The Sphinx, perfectly played by Vinnie Jones. The Sphinx is a tough guy mute, who does not suffer from any of the poor dialogue.

Quite disappointing, but a good film if you need something to pass the time.

J.Henderson.

5/10.

Midnight Express - 1978 - Brad Davis, Randy Quaid, John Hurt.

Harrowing and brutal.

Director Alan Parker brings us Midnight Express, a film outlining the true story of young American Billy Hayes (Brad Davis), caught attempting to smuggle 2 kgs of hash back into America from Turkey, resulting in his sentence at a Turkish prison. After originally being sentenced to four years, the Turkish officials decide to make an example of Billy, increasing his sentence to thirty years. This pushes Billy over the edge, and with prison life becoming too hard to handle he, along with Max (John Hurt) and Jimmy Booth (Randy Quaid), decides to catch the midnight express out of the hell he's been living in.

A friend of mine told me before watching this film that it was horrific, and he wasn't wrong. Midnight Express is a harrowing portrayal of a foreign prison, with every element of the film making contributing to the terrifying feeling you receive when watching this picture. From the beginning of the film the sound adds tension, adds to the fear and allows you to get a little closer to feeling what the characters are going through. I have never witnessed the use of a pulsing heartbeat being so effective than in the opening airport scene of the film. As the film progresses the eerie use of sound subtly changes to accommodate the setting, something which ensures the viewer will stay connected.

The trio of Billy, Max and Jimmy create short breaks from the tension and hardships due to the great clash of personalities. Randy Quaid plays Jimmy Booth, a hot-headed American putting everything he has into finding a way to get out of the nightmare he finds himself. John Hurt gives a fantastic performance as Max, a stoner who is simply too lethargic to have bothered attempting to escape. Hurt's portrayal is utterly convincing and you just can't help but find yourself loving the character, deserving of his Golden Globe and BAFTA.

Although a familiar plot, Oliver Stone's screenplay allows the film the lay low and be quite understated, creating a hugely fact based film that feels extremely real.

A must-see film that will stay with you for a while.

J.Henderson.

9/10.

As Good As It Gets - 1997 - Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt.

An extremely memorable romantic comedy.

James L. Brooks directs As Good As It Gets, a rom-com which follows the life of Melvin Udall (Jack Nicholson), a verbally vicious writer who suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder. When local waitress Carol Connelly (Helen Hunt) has to take time off work (due to her son's chronic asthma) from Melvin's favourite eating spot, Melvin's necessary routine is all but ruined with his main priority centring around getting things back to normal. Things get worse for Melvin when his neighbour, gay artist Simon Bishop (Greg Kinnear), ends up hospitalised, meaning Melvin is required to take care of Simon's dog Verdell. Will these new relationships change things for Melvin? He hopes not.

As Good As It Gets is filled with quick, hilarious dialogue and great character acting, but in terms of direction and writing, it is too long. With a great opening and ending, the middle third of the film, especially the segment surrounding Simon being forced to go and ask his parents for money, slows down the whole pace completely; and with a solid finish lined up at around 80-90 mintues, it seems that it just indulges itself and carries on for another hour, magically allowing each of the main characters to have moments of self-discovery.

Although overlong, Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt rightly win Oscars for their phenomenal performances. Jack is unrelenting in his verbal attacks, completely self indulgent and utterly convincing. Helen Hunt portrays the working class single mum superbly, delivering a character that seems so knowledgeable about the world yet so frustrated with it. The pair light up the screen when acting together. Greg Kinnear also gives a solid performance, showing that he is a great character actor.

Phenomenal acting performances in a film that could easily finish at 90 minutes.

J.Henderson.

7/10.

Hunger - 2008 - Michael Fassbender.

Dark and completely moving.

Hunger is a film that shows the final months of IRA activist Bobby Sands, who protested against his treatment by the British prison guards in way of a hunger strike. IRA volunteer Davey Gillen (Brian Milligan) is sentenced to Maze prison, Belfast. Like many IRA prisoners, Gillen is subject to countless beating by the guards, who in turn are constantly under threat of assassination by the IRA in their time off. As protests against Britain's refusal to note them as political prisoners begin to fail, IRA activist Bobby Sands (Michael Fassbender) starts a new protest. Sands begins a hunger strike that will not end until the IRA are seen as a legitimate political group.

Steve McQueen's Hunger is dark and completely moving throughout, highlighting the horrific conditions and punishments inflicted on the IRA prisoners as well as the constant threat for the British guards. McQueen's use of camera shots and editing are elements of the film making that stand out during the film. Not being afraid to, at times, let the action do all the taking and leaving the camera static. Contrary to this, at points during the film the sound and camera compliment the action perfectly, such as a scene where Sands has started his hunger strike and his physical pain is matched by the wavy motions of the camera and the sound of birds swooping ring out. McQueen creates an horrifically bleak and tormented atmosphere due to his superb film making.

McQueen could have very easily shown all guards in a terrible light, possibly portraying them as faceless brutes who want to take full advantage of the opportunity to beat the weak and imprisoned. Instead, the first time feature-film director chooses to highlighted the wounded and terrified nature of some of the guards, such as that portrayed by the harrowing Stuart Graham. This adds another dimension to Hunger, one which shows how these actions deeply effect a countless amount of people.

The film is haunting, and Michael Fassbender's performance sends it on its way to being so. Fassbender is magnificent, putting everything into the role, shown by his dramatic weight loss of 170 pounds down to 130. Hunger just shows what makes us human.

J.Henderson.

8/10.

Heat - 1995 - Al Pacino, Robert De Niro.

One of the great crime movies.

Michael Mann writes and directs Heat, an incredibly smart crime thriller which follows a hugely successful criminal looking to get out of the game after one last hit, and an obsessive cop hunting to get him behind bars. Robert De Niro plays Neil McCauley, an experienced robber, known for tackling banks and armoured vehicles. McCauley's success has cost him a personal life, not allowing himself to get distracted by any relationships. Al Pacino plays Vincent Hanna, an L.A.P.D. cop putting everything he has into finding McCauley, which also results in a lack of family life. Divorced twice, Hanna is absent in his third marriage. Which of these lonely men will succeed?

My brief synopsis doesn't even begin to tap into the huge amount of detail and characters in this near 3 hour film. Mann's Heat is definitely one of the best crime thrillers of the past 20 years with action scenes worthy of Tarantino and the use of location and camera shot is simply superb. Although the film is so very long and nothing immensely new is done, Mann delivers a truly great crime movie.

When you see that the stars of the film are Pacino and De Niro, you can't help but want to watch the film. However, Mann only puts the two together in a few scenes with both putting in solid individual performances. Pacino over-acts his way through the film, which is not a bad thing as it surprisingly works. Much of his time is spent shouting at people and delivering orders, which allow the more dramatic scenes to add more to Pacino's character.

Purposely opposite to Hanna is De Niro's McCauley whose calm and and restricted demeanour creates a character that just breaths lonesome determination for the job at hand. Heat also has a stunning supporting cast which includes Val Kilmer, Natalie Portman, Hank Azaria, Jon Voight, Tom Sizemore and William Fichtner.

Stunningly brilliant crime thriller although very very long.

J.Henderson.

8.5/10.

Mississippi Burning - 1988 - Gene Hackman, Willem Dafoe.

Well acted but could be a lot better.

Brit director Alan Parker's 1988 film Mississippi Burning is the dramatization of a 1964 criminal case where three civil rights workers were killed by the Ku Klux Klan. Rupert Anderson (Gene Hackman) and Alan Ward (Willem Dafoe) are the FBI agents sent to investigate. Anderson is a more traditional, older agent who believed that in order to catch the scum, you had to sink to their level. His partner Ward was the complete opposite, young and played by the book. The pair soon realise what they are up against in the south.

Although based on a true case, it couldn't be more of a mainstream film. In the true Hollywood style the two agents assigned to the case are completely different, and nothing like the agents actually in charge of the case. Furthermore, Mississippi Burning chooses only to portray the white in the south as rednecks, which resulted in white southerners claiming the film to be prejudice. However, the worst part all of this for me is how Parker doesn't even attempt to show the effect the KKK had from a black perspective. For a large portion the blacks are seen as silent victims and nothing else, mostly only present for the most violent scenes.

After saying all of this though, some of the scenes where visually exceptional. The scene which involves the terrorisation of a black church by the Klan is extremely powerful, and also the sub-plot involving Mrs. Pell (Frances McDormand), the wife of a Klan member who is regularly beaten, is at times simply horrific.

Acting throughout the film was overall excellent, with both Gene Hackman and Frances McDormand receiving Oscar nominations. A good visual and stylistic film, but content-wise it is just wrong.

J.Henderson.

5.5/10.

Requiem for a Dream - 2000 - Ellen Burstyn, Jared Leto.

A hugely intense, grim look on drug culture.

Requiem for a Dream is the second film from director Darren Aronofsky and the film is centred around Harry (Jared Leto) and his mother, Sara (Ellen Burstyn). Harry and his best friend Tyrone (Marlon Wayans) are heroin addicts looking to score a pound of the stuff in order to make it to easy street. Harry's girlfriend, Marion (Jennifer Connelly), is also in on the venture; wanting to distance herself from her wealthy family. Sara is a lonely widow, way past her prime, spending her days watching television. When she gets asked to appear on her favourite show she puts all focus on dieting in order to fit into a special red dress. In order to drop the pounds quickly she gets prescribed amphetamines from a dodgy doctor, resulting in her own downturn due to her new-found addiction to these pills.

This film is more than just another "drug movie". Requiem for a Dream shows how addiction can come in many forms and can affect anybody. Whether it be Sara and her addiction to television, or her addiction to amphetamines. These addictions could be fuelled from many things; her loneliness? her desire to loose weight? Also, Harry's addiction starts from wanting to becomes wealthy, simply sampling the product leading to a fierce addiction. Harry's girlfriend Marion doesn't want to be associated with her rich family so rebels, resulting in her addiction.

Aronofsky highlights how addiction can be caused by anything and affect anyone, and he does so using the technical flair and innovation that you expect from an Aronofsky picture. However, at times it seems that the director gets so caught up in his own style that the narrative suffers; with the story becoming disappointingly predictable.

The acting from the leading and supporting cast is superb throughout the film, with all the plaudits going to Ellen Burstyn. Her mental and physical degeneration is truly shocking to watch. She delivers such a vivid portrayal of loneliness, of suffering, that you can only look at with sadness.

Not a film for the faint hearted, with scenes that will truly shock. Aronofsky's style is out in full force in this grim film.

J.Henderson

7/10.

Hitchcock - 2012 - Anthony Hopkins, Helen Mirren.

Not Hitchcock.

Alfred Hitchcock (Hopkins) is in a tough situation; he has bet everything on Psycho, Hollywood doesn't like the idea, and he's starting to loose his mind. Furthermore, tiring of her lack of credit, his wife and creative partner, Alma Reville (Mirren), is looking to go her own way.

From watching Hitchcock I was left unsure of what the film was actually about, the daring notion of killing off your heroine in the first thirty minutes was the brain-child of Alma, not Hitch. Very little credit was actually given to Hitchcock, with the spotlight falling on his wife who assisted in the editing room, the script and even directing (when Hitch is ill). All I can see from this picture is that Hitchcock's main aim was to give Alma the credit she deserves, that's if what is depicted in the film is accurate.

Hopkins' performance as Hitch is fun but not entirely convincing. The main issue surrounding the portrayal of the Hollywood director was Hopkins' speech, which was too fast and agitated for Hitch's dawdling delivery. The same could be said for the film as a whole, quick, pleasurable at times; watching the squabbles between studio and film-maker, the relationship between Hitch and Alma, Hitch and his blonde leading lady. This is all good but director Gervasi only manages to tap into the surface, not focusing on one issue in enough detail.

Ultimately Hitchcock is very disappointing, "A nice, clean, nasty piece of work," is how Hitch describes the film within a film. Gervasi's movie is just too nice and slight and that's not nearly worthy enough of the man whose name carries the film.

J.Henderson.

5/10.

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen - 2012 - Ewan McGregor, Emily Blunt.

Very likeable but awkward.

Chocolat and Dear John director Lasse Hallstrom brings us Salmon Fishing in the Yeman which sees Dr. Alfred Jones (Ewan McGregor), Britain's leading fishery expert, being approached by consultant Harriet (Emily Blunt) in order to help a Sheik (Amr Waked) to bring his vision of having the sport of fly-fishing in Yemen. Pressure begins to build throughout the project as the Prime Minister's press secretary (Kristin Scott Thomas) gets involved. Can they pull it off?

Salmon Fishing is based on Paul Torday, the film never does enough to take you away but Ewan McGregor, Emily Blunt and especially Kristin Scott Thomas manage to keep you involved. Possibly giving her funniest performance since Four Weddings and a Funeral, Scott Thomas delivers the dialogue given to her perfectly and will have you laughing out loud in almost every one of her scenes; definitely the performance that keeps the film rolling. The film quickly becomes a story of relationships and love with all the loose ends waiting until the last possible moment to sort themselves out. 

Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt are also on good form. McGregor plays shy, rule-orientated Dr. Fred Jones, who reluctantly has to take the job; believing that it is absurd to even contemplate putting fish in the desert, never mind actually going forward with it. Blunt plays Harriet, the representative of the Sheik on the project, whose job it is to get all of the Sheik's ideas and plans across to Fred. Together the pair keep things interesting, with Blunt's vulnerabilities and McGregor's inability for emotion creating some very awkward humour.

An extremely likeable comedy that just about manages to keep you hooked.

J.Henderson.

6.5/10. 

Shame - 2011 - Michael Fassbender, Carey Mulligan.

Emotional and compelling.

Steve McQueen's follow up to his 2008 hit Hunger is the utterly provocative Shame. The film reunites Fassbender and McQueen in this film that follows the life of New Yorker Brandon (Michael Fassbender), a man seemingly incapable of intimacy with women, only using them to fulfil his addictive sexual desires. The arrival of Brandon's younger sister, Sissy (Carey Mulligan), forces old memories to surface, resulting in Brandon's life to fall apart.

Steve McQueen delivers a hugely provocative and compelling film, using image over dialogue throughout most of the first third of the film. He uses the opening third to outline Brandon's routine before the arrival of his younger sister; something which allows the audience to see the full effect that Sissy has on Brandon's compulsive addiction.

McQueen shows an interesting side of New York, a side which plays to the addictive nature of Brandon. Brandon can always satisfy his need, whether that be through prostitution, night clubs or just on the subway. Brandon's professional life is only seen in brief spurts, possibly highlighting how holding a job is not the main priority to Brandon; frequently bringing his addiction into work.

Michael Fassbender shows what a top actor he is as he goes the extra mile and beyond in Shame. He exquisitely portrays a man troubled by his addiction, ruled by his impulses. He delivers darkness and need in an extremely believable way. Fassbender highlights his talents throughout this film as his use of gesture and facial expression  play as his primary way of getting his obsessive seductive charms across to his target.

One of the most provocative films in recent years. Quality acting and direction.

J.Henderson.

8/10.

The Green Mile - 1999 - Tom Hanks, Michael Clarke Duncan.

Completely moving.

Frank Darabont (The Shawshank Redemption) directs his second film and second Stephen King adaptation with The Green Mile. The film centres on Death Row at the Cold Mountain Correctional Facility, something known as 'the green mile' due to the dark green floor. Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks) is the head guard on the Green Mile when the towering new inmate John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan), convicted of murdering two young girls, is brought into custody. Despite his huge figure and supposed horrific crimes, Coffey seems to be of a more gentle nature, resembling that of a child, not a child killer. After some time Edgecomb starts to notice miraculous things coming from Coffey's cell, leading to questions surrounding whether Coffey would be capable of the terrible things to which he has been convicted.

Frank Darabont definitely doesn't rush this film, which clocks in at three hours long. It feels a lot more like watching a TV series in one big hit, which is not necessarily a bad thing, it just means that patience and stamina is needed. Although very long, Darabont delivers precision in his direction. Darabont manages to immerse the audience in the death row setting, using the flashback device to ease into the story. Plenty going on during the film which flows very well.

The acting throughout this film is overall very solid with Tom Hanks leading the way, allowing the film to flow in the way it does; keeping the audience listening which is definitely needed due to the length of the movie. Michael Clarke Duncan perfectly portrays the friendly giant John Coffey, successfully giving off a  combination of innocence and intimidation. Furthermore, the supporting cast, which includes Barry Pepper, David Morse and James Cromwell, are also on good form.

A top film that will definitely not disappoint, providing you can stick it out.

J.Henderson.

7/10.

In Bruges - 2008 - Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson.

Hilarious with a great cast.

Martin McDonagh's In Bruges is the story of two Dublin hitmen Ray (Colin Farrell) and Ken (Brendan Gleeson). After a messy hit in London, Ray and Ken are forced to go lay low in Bruges, Belgium, as they nervously wait to hear from their boss, Harry (Ralph Fiennes). Whilst in Bruges, Ray is struggling to deal with the guilt of what happened in London, yet still having enough time to comment on the state of the architecture, the tourists and a particular dwarf.

In Bruges is an interesting take on the life of a hitman, with much of the film consumed with these two burly guys trolling aimlessly around Bruges. The city becomes a running joke throughout the film, with both men frustrated with the lack of information from back home and being stuck with each other for a prolonged period of time. Colin Farrell is back to something of his best as he portrays a man consumed with paranoia and frustration, giving a highly believable performance. Brendan Gleeson is also on good form as the interplay between the two lead actors creates moments of great comedy.

What makes this film more than just great acting performances is the great script. Martin McDonagh produces dialogue worthy of Tarantino in this quick and snappy comedy-drama. He creates comedy that looks so easy with his main characters spending much of the film simply walking around Bruges.

An hugely entertaining comedy but strongly based in its dialogue.

J.Henderson

7.5/10.

A Beautiful Mind - 2001 - Russell Crowe, Ed Harris.

Not quite the biopic it set out to be.

A Beautiful Mind is the story of John Forbes Nash Jr. (Russell Crowe), a mathematician searching to create his own unique and original idea. As life goes on Nash settles down with wife Alicia (Jennifer Connelly) and manages to get a job. However, as times passes it becomes clear that Nash's perception of reality is misguided to say the least, leading to a diagnosis of schizophrenia. Can he succeed  whilst battling such an illness?

Apparently based on a true story and the life of John Nash Jr. when watching A Beautiful Mind you can't help but feel as though you're not watching a biopic but some Hollywood spectacle. If this were a work of fiction, it would be one of the top pieces of storytelling. Furthermore, many aspects of Nash's life are missing from this so-called biopic, such as his divorce and his bisexuality; two major incidents that I'm sure would effect anybodies life, let alone a schizophrenics.

However, this is not to say that there aren't good things in this film. The general acting is very strong with Crowe leading the way with his stunning performance as the schizophrenic Nash, earning him a third straight Oscar nomination. The supporting cast are also in good form especially Paul Bettany as schizophrenic delusion Charles Herman. Furthermore, Jennifer Connelly gives a strong performance as Nash's long-suffering wife, a performance which won her the Oscar in a supporting role.

A very simple drama that does thrill. At times A Beautiful Mind is very entertaining but nothing like the biopic it presents itself to be. Russell Crowe is the films strong point.

J.Henderson.

6.5/10.

Hugo - 2011 - Ben Kingsley, Chloe Moretz.

Phenomenal use of 3D.

Hugo is the first 3D film from cinematic genius Martin Scorsese. The film is set in 1931 Paris and follows the life of young Hugo Cabret (Asa Butterfield). Hugo lives in a train station and manages the clocks, making sure he stays clear of the station inspector (Sacha Baron Cohen), who wants to send him to an orphanage. With the help of friend Isabelle (Chloe Moretz), the pair manage to get an automaton, left by Hugo's late father (Jude Law), working; the result of which leads Hugo and Isabelle into a mystery surrounding moody shopkeeper Georges (Ben Kingsley).

Hugo will entertain all. It's characters highlight a mix of turmoil and comedy, with Sacha Baron Cohen's station inspector being a stickler for the rules yet also vulnerable which at times adds humour due to clumsiness caused by a metal clasp on his leg due to a war injury. Ben Kingsley gives us a perfect portrayal of hurt pride with Georges Melies, a magician turned cinematic innovator whose 500 plus films are nearly all destroyed. With the discovery of Georges' past comes a new dynamic to Hugo, becoming much more than just a children's film, becoming a film that highlights the importance of cinema and film preservation.

Scorsese does more with 3D than most have done before, with his innovation behind the camera clear for all to see. Not only does the director use 3D to show excellent shots of the station and of Paris, but it's used to perfection on facial expression. The best use however is with the showing of vintage cinema. Scorsese attempts to create the same astonishment that early film viewers would have experienced, coming as close as he possibly could to achieving it.

Not a typical Martin Scorsese film but a masterpiece in 3D filmmaking.

J.Henderson.

8/10.

Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves - 1991 - Kevin Costner, Alan Rickman.

Action-packed but poor.

Kevin Reynolds' Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves Robin of Locksley (Kevin Costner) has come back to England from the Crusades with Moorish protector Azeem (Morgan Freeman), only to find his father and estate destroyed by the Sheriff of Nottingham (Alan Rickman). Forced into Sherwood Forest, Robin comes across a band of warriors (merry men), including Little John (Nick Brimble) and Will Scarlet (Christian Slater), who need a leader to go up against the Sheriff’s devilish reign of power. 

It must be said although  Prince of Thieves is at times completely entertaining and compelling, Kevin Costner's only positive surround the lead role is that he looks fairly athletic. I understand that it's been noted before but how an actor of any worth can go into a role such as Robin Hood and not even attempt the English accent. Russell Crowe managed to keep a fairly consistent (although quite poor) English accent throughout the 2010 version, and the lack of any attempt just cuts down any believability in the role.

However, not all acting was poor throughout this film as Alan Rickman and Morgan Freeman carry this film. Alan Rickman's over-the-top performance allows him to steal every scene with a performance that at times brings a certain amount of humour to a film that has the ability to be excellent but never gets any better than average.

Even with being littered with poor performances and with such slow, pedestrian direction from Kevin Reynolds; there are good action sequences to keep the audiences entertained. When Robin's band of merry men launch their attack on the Sheriff of Nottingham, yet some of the action is just farcically unrealistic (EG being propelled over a wall), it is hugely entertaining and a marvellous spectacle.

Rickman and a few good action sequences make this film entertaining, without them, the film would be un-watchable.

J.Henderson.

5.5/10.

Inglourious Basterds - 2009 - Brad Pitt, Christoph Waltz.

Quality Tarantino.

Inglourious Basterds follows Lt. Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt) and his group of 'basterds' as they invade Nazi-occupied France with the mission to claim Nazi scalps. The basterds team up with German actress Bridget von Hammersmark (Diane Kruger) when they learn that the Nazis will be attending the French premiere of "The Nation's Pride," a German propaganda film based on the heroic tale of Fredrick Zoller (Daniel Brühl). The Basterds hatch an explosive plan to use the premiere to wipe out as many Nazis as they possibly can; yet with diabolical Col. Hans ‘Jew Hunter’ Landa (Christoph Waltz) on their case, would the plan go off as expected. (no pun intended).

Tarantino yet again does a film the way he wants to, and with Inglourious Basterds he writes his own history. As expected, the script and dialogue is phenomenal, heavy, but extraordinarily good. The characters he writes are incredible to watch on screen, and he yet again casts beautifully. However, what stops Basterds from being up their will Pulp Fiction is that the segments that the film is split into, doesn't quite fit together as sweetly as Pulp Fiction did. This film feels more like a bunch of sequences just placed together rather than one individual film, whereas with Pulp, although split into different stories, the sequences fit together so nicely that it worked brilliantly.

As with all Quentin Tarantino, the actors chosen are sublime with the stand-out performance going to Christoph Waltz. Waltz's Hans Landa takes evil to a new level as he interrogates his victim with such confidence, such calmness, that he provokes fear from his reputation and ruthlessness. Landa's personality oozes charm with a straight shooting malice (in four language) that is just outstanding to watch. Hugely deserving of the Oscar for best supporting actor and the making of this film.

For any die-hard QT fan this film will not disappoint. Will it polarize the audience? Possibly.

J.Henderson.

8/10.

The Town - 2010 - Ben Affleck, Jeremy Renner.

A very slick crime thriller.

Set in Boston, The Town follows the life of bank robber Doug MacRay (Ben Affleck). After a bank robbery Doug keeps an eye on the manager Claire Keesey (Rebecca Hall), the only person who could identify his gang. Doug begins the fall for Claire,  which allows the FBI become closer to capturing his gang, including loose cannon and long time best friend James 'Jem' Coughlin (Jeremy Renner). As the gang plan their biggest robbery yet, will they be able to complete the job or will the FBI intervene?

The Town is slick from start to end with great writing, great pace and a great cast. At the helm of all three is director, writer and lead actor Ben Affleck who proved that Gone Baby Gone was no fluke with this crime thriller that will definitely keep you entertained. The actors do well to deal with the inadequacies in the script, with the chemistry between Hall and Affleck allowing the love story to not be farcical.

Plaudits must go the Jeremy Renner whose performance as the hot-headed Coughlin is simply sublime. Renner's quick-fire temper and rash actions add another and much needed dimension to Affleck's gang of robbers.

Affleck may not give a phenomenal script or brilliant personal acting display, but his work behind the camera is top notch.

J.Henderson.

7/10.

Se7en - 1995 - Morgan Freeman, Brad Pitt.

A hugely powerful Hollywood thriller.

David Fincher gives us Se7en, a true Hollywood thriller centred around Det. William Somerset (Morgan Freeman), a homicide specialist only one week away from his retirement. However, his retirement must be put on hold for one last case as he teams up with up and coming detective David Mills (Brad Pitt); a fiery newcomer who is only in the big city after persuading his wife Tracy (Gwyneth Paltrow) to make the move. Mills' first case and Somerset's last turns out to be the case of their lives, a case that would change the lives of both men. A devilish serial killer is on the loose, committing his vile acts in accordance with the seven deadly sins. Can the new police pairing catch the psychotic killer before he takes more lives?

Se7en is a vast improvement on David Fincher's Alien 3 as unlike the dull sci-fi Se7en is a chase movie that has real purpose and confidence. The film has a fast pace that continuously builds as the brutality grows, with the shock value peaking at the films climax. The secrecy surrounding the villain is a tool that creates great intrigue and suspense, an aspect that helps make the film the success that it is.

The main cast (including villain who cannot be named) is on top form. Morgan Freeman successfully portrays a man who has learnt much from his years as a homicide specialist, a man who knows the harsh cruelties of life. He gives off the vibe of someone weathered due to his job, yet someone who just can't let it go. Contrary to this, Brad Pitt's eagerness and naivety that he gives the David Mills creates a pairing that just compliment each other. The arrival of the villain changes the whole dynamic of the film, showing a darker and more urgent side to Somerset and Mills. Furthermore, the killers arrival adds a much needed boost at the perfect time.

A powerful and extremely suspenseful thriller that will not disappoint.

J.Henderson.

7/10.

A Clockwork Orange - 1971 - Malcolm McDowell.

Disturbing and dark look on a near future society.

A Clockwork Orange follows the life of young man Alex (Malcolm McDowell) and his 'Droogs' who spend their nights drinking at the Korova Milkbar and then going out into the night to cause mayhem, embarking in 'a little of the old ultra-violence'. After a run in with the law, Alex is sentenced to prison, once inside he is offered a way of getting out early in the shape of a behaviour modification treatment. The treatment uses Alex's beloved 'Ludwig-van' against him, causing great psychological pain whenever subjected to violence. On being released back into the real world, and confronting all those he had done wrong to in the past, would he be able to stay out of trouble?

This film oozes Kubrick, from the camera work to the distinct use of sound. Any Kubrick fan would definitely not want to miss this picture. Malcolm McDowell (If... , O Lucky Man!) gives a defining performance, portraying Alex as the almost psychotic, sex crazed animal that consumes the opening half of the film, only for him to effortlessly transform into the innocent, helpless young man that develops during the behaviour modification treatment. On reflection, it's hard to believe it is the same man.

A Clockwork Orange is not however for the faint hearted. It's opening 15 minutes is littered with multiple rapes and beatings, shown in vivid detail. Kubrick gives a hugely stylish film filled with immense strong and powerful content. This doesn't let up throughout the film, as even with Alex's treatment comes horrific violence. Some could argue his treatment is a form of torture, and although the film is set slightly in the future, there is no way this form of treatment would ever be used. I don't want to give away any spoilers but in the main treatment scene, where tools are used to keep Alex's eyes open, Malcolm McDowell actually cut one of his corneas causing temporary blindness. Furthermore, in one of the more violent scenes, McDowell actually cracks a few ribs.

A powerful and quite disturbing film, not to be missed by any Kubrick followers.

J.Henderson.

7/10.

The Last King of Scotland - 2006 - Forest Whitaker, James McAvoy.

Enthralling and horrific.

Director Kevin MacDonald gives us The Last King of Scotland, which is the story of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin (Forest Whitaker) as seen through the eyes of his private physician Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy). After taking the job as the personal doctor to Idi Amin, Nicholas soon realises that he is trapped in this position after witnessing the horrors that take place at the hands of the evil dictator.

The Last King of Scotland gives us an immensely violent and vivid portrayal of Uganda under the rule of Idi Amin. The film uses fictional protagonist Nicholas Garrigan and places him into the history books to tell the story of one of the most vicious tyrants of all time. James McAvoy's portrayal of a young Scottish doctor, looking to help with African poverty is a tragic one. Nicholas' transformation from naivety to fear is one that is extremely well performed by McAvoy. However, the stand out performance is that of Forest Whitaker. He delivers a flamboyancy that manipulates not only Nicholas but also the audience, as at no point can you detract your eyes from Whitaker's Amin. As the film progresses, and especially throughout the last quarter, Whitaker's showman-like personality solidifies into complete terror and rage. It is this seemingly effortless transformation that gave Forest Whitaker the Oscar. An electric performance.

The Last King of Scotland impresses throughout, definitely one of the top films of 2006, successfully crafting a mixture between a biopic and thriller.

J.Henderson.

7.5/10.

Layer Cake - 2004 - Daniel Craig, Michael Gambon.

Slick and stunning Craig.

Layer Cake follows the life of  XXXX (Daniel Craig), a nameless drug dealer who keeps the system flowing whilst managing to make his fortune. XXXX wants out, but it was never going to be that easy as his boss, Jimmy Price (Kenneth Cranham), has a couple of jobs that need to be done. First of all, the daughter of mob boss Eddie Temple (Michael Gambon) has managed to get hooked on drugs and is nowhere to be seen; Jimmy tells XXXX to find the girl and bring her back before Eddie's men get involved. The second job centres around ecstasy dealer Dragan (Dragan Micanovic) who has had a large shipment robbed by Duke (Jamie Foreman); Jimmy needs XXXX to get the ecstasy back to Dragan, however Duke isn't  going to easily sell and Dragan's patience is wearing thin. In attempting to complete these final jobs, XXXX is unsure whether he'll be able to get out of this business alive.

Layer Cake opens, much like crime sensations Casino and Goodfellas, to narration, and in this case, narration from Daniel Craig. What allows this film the be the success it is, is Craig. He portrays a man intelligent in his surroundings, knowing that he is running a business, aware of the job that needs to be done and that although he is breaking the law, if he does his job properly and efficiently, there will be no problems. Craig perfectly conveys these feelings throughout the film, oozing the determination that will hopefully lead to the retirement he always wanted. This film was the perfect audition for Bond, and through watching Layer Cake you can see why he was given the role. 

First time director Matthew Vaughn (producer on Lock, Stock and Snatch) takes the reigns on this project due to Guy Ritchie's busy schedule, and proves that he belongs in the directors chair. Although the film doesn't have the same spark as Snatch or Lock, Stock, I feel that that is partially down to the script which at times becomes too long-winded and tries to over complicate itself. Nonetheless, it makes up for any frailties with a top draw ending.

Stylish and slick from a killer Daniel Craig. 

J.Henderson.

7/10.

Trance - 2013 - James McAvoy, Vincent Cassel.

Too much going on.

Trance centres around art auctioneer Simon (James McAvoy) who, along with Frank (Vincent Cassel) and his gang, plan to rob a Goya painting worth in the region of £25 million. However, after suffering a serious blow to the head during the robbery, Simon cannot remember where he hid the painting, or even why he hid it. In an attempt to gain back the lost memories, the group seek the help of hypnotherapist Dr. Elizabeth Lamb (Rosario Dawson) who delves into the deepest parts of Simon's mind. The deeper she delves into Simon's subconscious, the more we start to find out that suggestion can be a powerful tool.

I would like to start with the positives of this film as they are quick and simple. What stops this film from being a travesty is the solid acting of the main cast and the stunning direction that has become standard of Danny Boyle. James McAvoy delivers a character quite puzzled with his life, confused throughout a large portion of the film with his true colours being revealed as the film progresses. While Cassel, putting a lot into the role, begins as the macho leader of the heist, yet through time his vulnerabilities are displayed for everyone to see. As mentioned Boyle shows his stunning innovation once again, providing camera angles that most directors would not even think of. For one particular shot he has the camera facing out of McAvoy's trouser pocket, something that surprisingly works.

What let Trance down so heavily was the story itself. The amount of information jammed into the 101 minutes of film is extraordinary. This is hard to explain without spoilers, but Trance just doesn't make up its mind regarding genre. The film has large elements of heist, romance, thriller, comedy, everything. It is not that the film is confusing or overly complicated, but at times it feels that it is almost trying to over complicate itself.

I find that instead of the big twist revealing itself at the end, resulting in a timely explanation of what had been seen throughout the film, the twist appears within the first 30 minutes and then engulfs the film from then on rather unsuccessfully. Furthermore, due to the films confusion regarding which avenue it wants to go down, some of the turning points and important moments in the film pass by too quickly. I must stress, it is extremely hard to give away anything about this film without spoilers, which turns out to be another problem of putting far too much information into this relatively short film by modern standards.

Trance would definitely benefit from adding on at least another 45 minutes of film. Maybe Boyle's Olympic preparations took up a bit too much of his time.

J.Henderson.

5.5/10.

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Trainspotting - 1996 - Ewan McGregor.

Shocking, stylish and simply superb.

Danny Boyle's Trainspotting follows the life of Edinburgh lad Mark Renton (Ewan McGregor), a young man addicted to heroin with not much else going on in his life; yet that's how he likes it. Mark hangs round with his 'so called mates' Sick Boy (Jonny Lee Miller) and Spud (Ewen Bremner), who are also heroin addicts, and Begbie (Robert Carlyle), a psychotic, near alcoholic who will jump at the first hint of a fight. After kicking the heroin after a few close shaves with the law Mark moves to London, only for his mates to come straight down after him and persuade Mark back into the world of drugs.

Trainspotting stylishly highlights the isolated effect of heroin addiction with Mark Renton orchestrating us through the troubles of his life, pointing out that once hooked everything else in the world becomes mundane. Ewan McGregor delivers a performance I still believe is his best. He portrays a man who knowingly leads a pathetic and useless life, yet uses the highs of heroin to pick him up from the darkest corners of his existence. Boyle uses these severe changes in emotion to deliver some of the deepest moments of the film, not to mention some of the funniest.

Danny Boyle displays a full range of innovative direction throughout this film with sequences touching on the surreal. A perfect example of this is 'the worst toilet in Scotland' scene where Mark Renton seems to swim into the toilet so that he doesn't loose his gear. This stylish and darkly amusing scene shows the trouble that an addict would go to in order to secure their next score.

I feel a major part of the films success is down to its cast, with the supporting roles all performing well. Jonny Lee Miller gives Sick Boy a subtle sense of intelligence via his extreme knowledge of James Bond, whilst Robert Carlyle's Begbie steals every scene due to his unpredictability. Ewen Bremner perfectly shows Spud for what he really is, a simple chap who just follows his friends.

A shocking yet stylish Danny Boyle film that for me is one of the most influential films of the 90s. One of the best British films of all time. 

J.Henderson.

9/10.