Genres – Page 2 – NZ Film Freak

Brave

Directors: Mark Andrews and Brenda Chapman
Writer: Brenda Chapman
Released: June 2012
Starring: Kelly Macdonald, Billy Connolly, Emma Thompson, Julie Walters, Robbie Coltrane, Kevin McKidd, Craig Ferguson
—

I was so certain I had written a review on this film…

Anyway, it’s a medieval, Scottish-based Disney Pixar animation film about a young fiery red-headed princess named Merida (Kelly Macdonald). Her youth and freedom is threatened when her parents organise suiters to win her hand in marriage. She rebels and enlists a witch to change her mum (Emma Thompson) in order to change her fate.

While the dodgy witch (Julie Walters) did make her mother change, she changed her into a bear. This did change Merida’s fate but not in the most ideal way. Therefore, Merida has to find a way to break the spell.

Princess Merida: [narrating] There are those who say fate is something beyond our command. That destiny is not our own, but I know better. Our fate lives within us, you only have to be brave enough to see it.

My favourite scenes all include Angus, Merida’s shire horse. She frequently rides him bareback as they gallop across the Scottish countryside – it’s so dreamy! I spoke about him being one of my favourite animated horses here.

There are a lot of firsts for this movie: Merida is the first princess to not have a love interest, she’s the first to have brothers, and Brave is the first ever Disney film to be entirely set in a historic past.

The lack of romance was probably to set a tone with the equal-rights and gender equality movement of today. Brave shows a strong, independent young woman who ‘don’t need no man’ and can make her own life decisions. It is one step up from Frozen‘s theme of only needing love from family and not necessarily romantic love, I suppose.

While I appreciate we should be shifting our attitudes with gender equality, I really hope the classic Disney love stories don’t die out. I feel like there is a movement shunning princess movies and ‘happily ever afters’.

I saw a video recently where the gender roles were swapped in Cinderella, called ‘Cindefella‘. The story shows a peasant boy who goes to a ball and falls in love with a princess, who then tries to find him after he bails at midnight. Just like in the traditional fairytale, they both marry in the end and live happily ever after.

This video was used as an example of gender inequality: ‘we wouldn’t read this to our sons so why would we read it to our daughters?’ Quite frankly, I don’t think the story was all that bad for girls or boys, gender swaps or not.

Anyway.

While I did enjoy Brave, it wasn’t what I expected. I thought it would carry the tone of the first half of the film where Merida is fun and free and exploring the world right to the end. But it quickly turns into a far more unrealistic tale about turning people into bears, which I found to lack entertainment and relatability. It just took a weird and unexpected turn for me.

Overall, it had some comedic moments and I did enjoy the first half of the film, but it’s not my favourite.

Jodie’s rating: 6/10

Sing Street

Director: John Carney
Writer: John Carney and Simon Carmody
Released: May 2016
Starring: Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, Lucy Boynton, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Aidan Gillen, Jack Reynor, Kelly Thornton
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I was dubious about this film at first, I was thinking ‘any second now it’s going to take a turn for the worse’. But it didn’t! It was actually a very uplifting film from beginning to end.

I love movies about a likeable and naive underdog – like About a Boy or Driving Lessons – but coming-of-age films with a great soundtrack like this one is even better. The songs are so catchy!

It’s very similar to The Commitments as it follows the story of a band of young Irish musicians in the 1980s/1990s. But Sing Street has a more definitive love story and protagonist. I really enjoyed it!

Darren: What does “happy-sad” even mean? How can we be both things? It makes no sense.
Conor: It means that I’m stuck in this shithole full of morons and rapists and bullies, and I’m gonna deal with it, okay? It’s just how life is. I’m gonna try and accept it and get on with it, and make some art.

Protagonist Conor (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo) is sent to a new school as a result of his parents breaking up. It that wasn’t bad enough, he is already getting picked on by students and teachers at school. Conor soon meets a young, aspiring model (Lucy Boynton) hanging around the school, who he tries to impress by saying he’s in a band. As a result, he immediately tried to recruit people to be in his band.

Brendan: This is life, Conor. Drive it like you stole it.

The band is a bunch of misfits and underdogs, which I just love! It’s so funny.

Sing Street would particularly appeal to those who love 1980s pop or who love stereotypical 80s fashion. But even if you don’t like either of those things, you’ll love the humour in this film. It’s Irish humour like in Black Books or Calvary.

An easy-to-watch film about people who win at life by not giving up, and continuing to pursue their dreams. A real pick-me-up.

Jodie’s rating: 7/10

Jerry Maguire

Director: Cameron Crowe
Writer: Cameron Crowe
Released: December 1996
Starring: Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding, Jr. Renée Zellweger, Kelly Preston, Jerry O’Connell, Jay Mohr, Bonnie Hunt
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Show me the money!

You had me at ‘hello’.

They’re quotes that everyone has heard, but I’m not convinced everyone has actually seen Jerry Maguire.

It probably has a similar reputation as A Few Good Men where everyone knows the “You can’t handle the truth!” line, but not as many have seen the film it’s from. (Coincidentally they’re both Tom Cruise movies.)

This film is about a sports agent called Jerry Maguire who has an epiphany that results in him sending a late-night mission statement to everyone in the office. An inspired letter about perceived dishonesty in the industry and how they should work toward quality over quantity. However, in the morning that all too familiar, overwhelming warm wave of regret hits him.

Management don’t like his new way of thinking, and organises a co-worker called Bob Sugar (Jay Mohr) to fire him. Suddenly, it’s a race against each other to secure all their clients – will they follow Jerry Maguire away from the company, or stick with Bob Sugar?

Along with a small handful of sports stars, the only co-worker to supports him is single mother Dorothy Boyd (Renée Zellweger) who leaves the company with him to start their own sports star representative company.

Jerry: [after having been fired] But if anybody else wants to come with me, this moment will be the ground floor of something real and fun and inspiring and true in this godforsaken business and we will do it together!

It’s fast-paced and hilarious, particularly when Jerry dwindles down to only one [very enthusiastic and loyal] sports star: Rod Tidwell (Cuba Gooding Jr.). He. Is. So. Funny. (Jamie Foxx auditioned for his part, but surely he would have been too serious to play Rod Tidwell?)

Usually Tom Cruise carries the film, but oh my Lord, Cuba Gooding Jr. is absolutely, undeniably the reason why this film can be watched on repeat.

Tom Cruise was a brilliant decision. Apparently the part was written for Tom Hanks, but he was too old by the time the script was finished. It was then assumed that Robin Williams would play the part, but I wonder if that would have been too much energy in conjunction with Cuba Gooding Jr..

I think Renee Zellweger was a solid choice because she looks so much more ordinary than a lot of women often cast as the love interest – I’m pleased they picked her over Winona Ryder! Apparently Renee was broke when she was cast and was very relieved to be working again.

While the romantic storyline is nice, I’m not convinced it’s essential and does occasionally put the breaks on the film.

Nevertheless, Jerry Maguire is a genuine must-watch. It’s romantic, it’s inspiring, it’s funny – a brilliantly smart drama that is perfectly cast. I love the themes of overcoming the odds despite being the underdog, I love how the film is about a failure while still having a dream, and the inspirational language all the way through it.

Particularly the cut-aways to interviews with a character called Dicky Fox, who parallels Jerry Maguire’s struggle with business advice.

Jerry : [Lying in bed one morning when suddenly the radio comes on and wakes him up with a jolt after having slept with Dorothy the night before]

[flash to Dickey Fox in his office]

Dicky: I love the mornings! I clap my hands every morning and say, ‘This is gonna be a great day!’

[flash back to Jerry Maguire who accidentally steps on a toy]

Jerry: [mutters] I don’t believe this. How’d I get myself into this?

Such an uplifting movie that really picks you up if you’re going through a rough patch. Similarly to Up in the Air, this film gives you a pat on the back if you’re struggling professionally and gives you a warm hug if you’re struggling romantically.

It’s a film that tells you ‘everything is going to be okay, and here’s why’.

Dicky: Hey, I don’t have all the answers. In life, to be honest, I failed as much as I have succeeded. But I love my wife. I love my life. And I wish you my kind of success.

Exploring frustration, desperation and acting on impulse, this is a highly satisfying film that you must watch. It’s about standing up to ‘the man’, it’s about doing what you want to do, it’s about staying positive and keeping your dignity and morals along the way.

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

Beauty and the Beast (2017)

beauty and the beast.jpg

Director: Bill Condon
Writers: Linda Woolverton (Disney film), Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont (story)
Released: March 2017
Starring: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans, Kevin Kline, Josh Gad, Ewan McGregor, Stanley Tucci, Audra McDonald, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Ian McKellen, Emma Thompson
—

The 1991 Disney animation of Beauty and the Beast is a movie that I love dearly. So while I had major reservations about this remake – mostly because of Emma Watson – I was quietly optimistic about it. Perhaps today’s technology will enhance the magic…

But no. It doesn’t. This remake was appalling, and my reluctance to watch it was proven understandable.

The casting was totally wrong. Right off the bat Emma Watson – or should I say Hermione Granger – was a problem. While she fits the physicality of Belle, her same-old expression of open-mouthed, furrow-browed facials were tiring to say the least.

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I personally would have cast another semi-unknown actress like Lily James who played Cinderella in the 2015 remake, or Mia Wasikowska as Alice in the 2010 remake of Alice in Wonderland.

Not only was the protagonist the wrong choice, I also found that Emma Thompson had a really harsh voice, which didn’t fit the part of the warm motherly character, Mrs Potts. I think Julie Walters would have done it better.

I love Stanly Tucci, but I’m not sure how he stumbled into this film either. However, Josh Gad as LeFou was perfect. (He played the snowman in Frozen.)

I don’t think the horse Philippe should have been a dapple grey. What’s wrong with keeping him bay?

Fun fact: Ryan Gosling turned down the role of the Beast for the lead role in La La Land. Emma Watson turned down what became Emma Stone’s role in La La Land for this film. (Thank the stars above for their decisions.)

The storyline strayed a little too far from the fairytale for my liking. It went into how Belle’s mother died and how it put a strain on her relationship with her father. It was an unnecessary deviation. Because of these added sequences, I found the rest of the film to be condensed and rushed. (In the 1991 film, I swear it takes longer for Belle to fall in love with the beast.)

I wonder if Emma Watson influenced the story? Because it has far stronger feminist themes through it now, where Belle is forever in control and smarter than the rest. Which made me dislike her. Especially because of the very poignant moments where Belle would make it exceptionally clear that she is a strong independent woman who don’t need no man… She may as well have turned to camera and say ‘#timesup’.

The songs are lengthened, which was also unnecessary and I honestly started daydreaming a bit.

Beauty and the Beast was trying too hard. Trying too hard to make it better than the animation, and all the unusual actors that were cast seemed to be desperately trying to prove themselves too. Over-theatrical acting turned it into a stage play rather than a live-action movie.

No, no, no, no and no. I shan’t be your guest and I disagree entirely with the casting decisions and with messing-about with the story.

Jodie’s rating: 3/10

Sorry Roberta, thank you for lending me the DVD though :) x

Seven Pounds

Director: Gabriele Muccino
Writer: Grant Nieporte
Released: December 2008
Starring: Will Smith, Rosario Dawson, Michael Ealy, Barry Pepper, Octavia Spencer, Woody Harrelson
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Seven Pounds is the film you watch when you’re depressed and have no intention of wanting to feel better. It’s heavy and tells a story of an absolute tragedy.

It’s about an IRS agent Ben (Will Smith) who is overwhelmed and broken with guilt after accidentally killing seven people – including his wife – when driving recklessly. He was wealthy and had everything, he felt indestructible and took what he had for granted.

Ben: In seven days God created the world, and in seven seconds I shattered mine.

After the accident, he can’t enjoy life anymore so he goes about finding seven worthy people to save for the seven he killed. Not in a superhero kind of way, more like in a charitable kind of way.

Ben: It is within my power to drastically change this person’s circumstances, but I don’t want to give him a gift he doesn’t deserve.

It’s about the journey to forgive oneself, and allowing to love again. It’s also about how relentless guilt is; how nothing can turn back time or undo a mistake, and how heartbreaking it is to watch bad things happen to good people.

The writer of Seven Pounds, Grant Nieporte, was inspired by a man he met whom he described as the saddest man on earth. Grant later discovered he was responsible for a national tragedy.

The soundtrack is what makes this film so emotional; it supports its misery perfectly.

The casting was perfect too – I think Woody Harrelson will pleasantly surprise you. Apparently Tom Hanks auditioned for Will Smith’s role. While I don’t doubt he would have done a good job, I can’t imagine anyone but Will Smith playing the role now.

Seven Pounds is like a sad song you can’t help but listen to on repeat. It’s a film designed to make you feel the full impact of a man who lost it all.

You need to give into the story’s power of despair and allow it to consume you – don’t resist the urge to cry as you will burst a blood vessel and the movie won’t be the slightest bit insightful.

You walk away wanting to be more careful with your life, and basically never wanting to leave the house for fear of losing those precious to you. Seven Pounds gives you a bit of a reality check as it makes you thankful for the more mundane problems in life.

It’s well-made, well-cast, well-scored but holy Jesus it’s depressing and is not one to watch frequently. You will feel devastated afterward, but I think that shows that the story has been successfully told, rather than it being worthy of a low rating.

Jodie’s rating: 7/10

Parental Guidance

Director: Andy Fickman
Writer: Lisa Addario and Joe Syracuse
Released: December 2012
Starring: Billy Crystal, Bette Midler, Marisa Tomei, Tom Everett, Scott Bailee, Madison Kyle, Harrison Breitkopf, Joshua Rush
—

Previously titled Us & Them, this is a whole-heartedly, all-American family film. Therefore, you will either laugh from beginning to end, or you won’t be able to avoid cringing at the cheese.

I personally enjoyed Parental Guidance – I could appreciate the family-fun.

It’s about grandparents Artie and Dianne (Billy Crystal and Bette Midler). Artie has just lost the job he loves because he’s too ‘old-school’ and not up to date with social media.

Drayton: We’re looking for guys who Tweet.
Artie: I’ll tweet, I make any kind of noise you want.

With him being in a depressed state, Dianne accepts their daughter’s plea for them to babysit their grandchildren at short notice. Dianne is keen to be more involved in her daughter’s and grandchildren’s lives, while Artie is preoccupied with chasing his dream to broadcast.

Diane: You know what we are? We’re the OTHER grandparents.
Artie: Well we can’t be all four.

Comedy ensues as they learn how they are to treat their grandchildren – they are never to say ‘no’, feed them sugar, or have winners and losers in sports games.

Eager to please, they try to help with their grandchildren’s problems – Harper’s (Bailee Madison) ‘high achievement syndrome’, Turner’s (Joshua Rush) stutter, and Barker’s (Kyle Harrison Breitkopf) imaginary kangaroo friend Carl.

Barker: You should’ve used your exit shoes.
Artie: My what?
Barker: Exit shoes, to walk away and not use a red voice.
Artie: And a red voice is…?
Barker: Super-mad sounding. You shouldn’t use it… That’s why you have a cool toolbox. It’s where you keep your cool blue voice, your exit shoes and your repair squares.
Artie: …All right, so I am taking a repair square out of my cool toolbox to say in my blue voice, that I am sorry.

But their more relaxed and traditional parenting techniques are not encouraged by their daughter Alice (Marisa Tomei).

Alice: For instance, where you would say “No”… we would say, “Consider the consequences.” Or where you would say, “Don’t”… we would say, “Maybe you should try this.” Or where you would say… “Quit your whining, you’re giving me a headache”… we would say, “Use your words.”

I personally found a lot of parts funny, mostly thanks to Billie Crystal’s sarcastic comments. But found the older grandchild Harper irritating because the actor overacted tremendously.

While not getting a brilliant reception, I think it’s a perfectly entertaining family film. No swearing, no offending, just an overly-sweet and cheesy movie!

Jodie’s rating: 6/10

You’ve Got Mail

Director: Nora Ephron
Writer: Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron
Released: December 1998
Starring: Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Parker Posey, Jean Stapleton, Dave Chappelle, Steve Zahn, Greg Kinnear
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A classic 1990s rom-com! Featuring the mum and dad of 90s rom-coms – Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan.

It’s from the writer/director Nora Ephron – the brain behind When Harry Met Sally, the similar 90s story of Sleepless in Seattle, and Julie & Julia. (She must have really loved Meg Ryan – I wonder if Nora considered her for Julie & Julia because she has a striking resemblance to Amy Adams.)

You’ve Got Mail is the ultimate feel-good film. It’s everyone’s daydream; realising the love of your life has been in front of you the entire time. In this movie, Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) owns a quaint book shop, until a giant book-selling conglomerate – owned by Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) – moves right up the road from her.

Kathleen: [writing to “NY152”] People are always telling you that change is a good thing. But all they’re really saying is that something you didn’t want to happen at all… has happened.

This threatens her family business, so Kathleen takes comfort in a stranger online – known as NY152 – whom she confides in. Developing feelings for the stranger, and vice versa, they decide to meet and you’ll never guess who NY152 turns out to be.

(Meanwhile, Kathleen is dating a complete arse (Greg Kinnear) who I absolutely adore hating.)

Kathleen: [in an email to “NY152”] The odd thing about this form of communication is that you’re more likely to talk about nothing than something. But I just want to say that all this nothing has meant more to me than so many somethings.

It’s got just the right amount of cheese for this outlandish twist of fate to be believable and enjoyable. It reminds me of Serendipity in that way.

I love the nonsense that Kathleen talks about. She really does have her head in a book even when she’s not reading:

Kathleen: [writing to “NY152”] Once I read a story about a butterfly in the subway, and today, I saw one! It got on at 42nd and off at 59th, where, I assume, it was going to Bloomingdales to buy a hat that will turn out to be a mistake, as almost all hats are.

It’s the perfect rainy Sunday watch. Its happiness and joy will make the sun come out in your life!

Jodie’s rating: 6/10

Kathleen: I love daisies.
Joe: You told me.
Kathleen: They’re so friendly. Don’t you think daisies are the friendliest flower?

I agree! ❤️

The Truman Show

Director: Peter Weir
Writer: Andrew Niccol
Released: June 1998
Starring: Jim Carrey, Laura Linney, Noah Emmerich, Natascha McElhone, Holland Taylor, Ed Harris
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I don’t know how I have gone this long without reviewing this remarkable movie.

The Truman Show is about Truman (Jim Carrey) who lives a humble life in a suburban town with a solid job and a perfect wife. But he can’t stop thinking about a woman he fell in love with at university. He soon begins to reflect on his life and missed opportunities, before expressing his desire to travel.

Truman: And all the way around here… Fiji. You can’t get any further away before you start coming back.

We soon release that his world is a lie. He is the main character in a reality television program that films him 24/7. His wife (Laura Linney), his best friend (Noah Emmerich) – everyone around him are all actors and the town is a massive stage, which appears inescapable.

I love the innocence of Truman – who knew that Jim Carrey could be such a perfect casting choice. Apparently Robin Williams was considered, but Jim Carrey was keen to show his dramatic side.

The story is brilliant and it was executed so well. The Truman Show puts you on edge, it makes you laugh, it makes you despair, and it sticks with you well after watching it. Similar to The Matrix, you begin to look around and reflect on the sincerity of your environment.

Mike Michaelson [presenter]: Christof, let me ask you, why do you think that Truman has never come close to discovering the true nature of his world until now?
Christof (Ed Harris) [producer]: We accept the reality of the world with which we’re presented. It’s as simple as that.

The script is brilliant, and the details of the film are so well done that after the 10th watch, you will still see new things. Such as the people in the background wanting to get a good look at the ‘star’ of the show when they are supposed to be professional background artists. It’s funny when Truman unexpectedly interacts with them, because their improv skills are awful.

Bus Driver: [unable to get the ferry moving] I’m usually the bus driver!
Production Assistant: [into his radio] Bottom line is they can’t drive the boat. They’re actors!

I love how well thought-out this movie is. Especially how adverts and product placement is intertwined with the ‘everyday life’ of Truman.

Meryl (Truman’s wife): [holding up a jar of cocoa, slipping into advertising mode] Why don’t you let me fix you some of this Mococoa drink? All natural cocoa beans from the upper slopes of Mount Nicaragua. No artificial sweeteners.
Truman: [looking around] What the hell are you talking about? Who are you talking to?
Meryl: I’ve tasted other cocoas. This is the best.

I like the theme of fate, and certain perceived coincidences that dictate our lives. The producer (Ed Harris) of The Truman Show plays God with Truman – something that some people believe to be true in their own lives. That their lives are out of their control, and in the hands of a higher being.

In that respect, Truman trying to escape this controlled environment is like people moving away from religion or considering a life without God. It’s scary taking responsibility for their own decisions and fate, but you’re rewarded with freedom.

Within this theme, is how fear controls people – touching on the media and advertising. The producers of The Truman Show ensured that Truman grew up being scared of water so that he would never want to board a boat and realise the town is a set. As a child, he was discouraged to becoming an explorer so that he would never want to board a plane and leave. He grew up on air, trapped by fear in order for him to stay put, spend money and consume products.

Fantastic, philosophical, almost coming-of-age kind of film. I love, love, love this film.

Truman: In case I don’t see you… good afternoon, good evening, and good night.

Jodie’s rating: 8.5/10

Paul

Director: Greg Mottola
Writers: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost
Released: March 2011
Starring: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jason Bateman, Kristen Wiig, Bill Hader, Blythe Danner, John Carroll, Lynch Sigourney, Weaver Seth Rogen
—

From the director of Superbad, and the creators of Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead, comes Paul.

A story about a laid-back alien called Paul (Seth Rogan) who is on the run from the government across the States before getting picked up by a couple of geeky tourists, Graeme (Simon Pegg) and Clive (Nick Frost). Graeme and Clive attended Comic-Con before travelling to various locations where UFOs have been sighted in an RV, until they get a closer encounter than they expected!

A concept that was thought-up on the set of Shaun of the Dead, but was not to be a part of the ‘Cornetto Trilogy’ with Edgar Wright. Looking into it, Pegg and Frost decided on an American director instead of their usual collaborator to keep an American tone.

Paul is a fun film, but can become a bit of a drag to watch because it feels like a never-ending chase without enough funny moments along the way to sustain your attention.

It’s an epic road trip film, which is entertaining enough with it being neither hilarious or a total write-off. Because of the writers’ previous epics – Hot Fuzz in particular – I was expecting a faster-paced script with cooler moments. But I guess the humour was tailored for an American audience.

Nevertheless, Pegg and Frost are brilliant writers and the casting was great. Seth Rogan was a good choice to be the voice of the CGI alien, whose attitude is severely laid-back, even in the most stressful of situations.

The cast is quite large for a relatively simple storyline, and I wonder how many of the characters were necessary.

Paul is essentially a love letter to the science-fiction genre, and Steven Spielberg in particular whose voice makes a guest appearance over the phone in one scene. So if you’re a science-fiction fan, you’ll probably enjoy this more than the Cornetto Trilogy fans would.

Jodie’s rating: 5/10

Ocean’s Eleven

Director: Steven Soderbergh
Writer: Ted Griffin (screenplay), George C. Johnson and Jack Golden Russell (story)
Released: December 2001
Starring: George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Andy García, Julia Roberts
—

After hearing about Ocean’s Eight coming out, I decided it was time to watch the first instalment.

Actually, Ocean’s Eleven is a remake of a 1960s movie called Ocean’s 11 (number instead of word) featuring Frank Sinatra as the protagonist. I had no clue!

Ocean’s Eleven is a fun, shallow film about a star-studded cast who rob a casino. Why? Because Danny Ocean (George Clooney) has just got out of prison and doesn’t accept that his ex-wife (Julia Roberts) has moved on with a wealthy casino-owner.

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Hence why him and his former colleagues rob the casino, in order to try and win Danny’s wife back. How romantic.

It’s harmless fun, really, which is what the director wanted; enjoyment without embarrassment or cheese. It looks like everyone on set had a good time – and apparently their chemistry is all completely genuine! They hung out together, played pranks on Julia Roberts and even gambled together outside of shooting.

This is a short review because although I enjoyed it, I was hoping for a bit more comradery, a bit more comedy and more deep-and-meaningful moments. To be honest, I was expecting The Parole Officer featuring cool Hollywood superstars.

Oh, and Don Cheadle as Basher was a terrible choice; his English accent was cringe-worthy. Otherwise, they should have just allowed him to be American! (Apparently Ewen McGregor was considered for his part initially.)

It’s a classic and I enjoyed it for what it was, but maybe it’s simply more of a man’s man film.

Jodie’s rating: 6/10

War of the Worlds

Director: Steven Spielberg
Writer: Josh Friedman, David Koepp (screenplay), H.G. Wells (story)
Released: June 2005
Starring: Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Justin Chatwin, Miranda Otto, Tim Robbins
—

Firstly, ‘yes’ I am a massive fan of War of the Worlds. I studied film at high school and university, where H.G. Wells’s original story The War of the Worlds and the 1953 film of the same name were frequently picked apart.

Also, one of my favourite childhood memories is going to see Jeff Wayne’s War of the Worlds musical in Auckland during 2007.

I had always been obsessed with Jeff Wayne’s 1970s musical interpretation of the story. I listened to his soundtrack on repeat before I went to bed most nights as a teenager, as did my father before me. It’s a masterpiece and it can not be improved upon.

Therefore, for the first time ever, I was disappointed to hear Morgan Freeman’s narration on Spielberg’s film version. In my mind, it was an insult to change Richard Burton’s spoken word on Jeff Wayne’s soundtrack.

Nevertheless, I definitely love this film interpretation despite it not reflecting the musical masterpiece that came before it.

It is a sci-fi horror about Ray (Tom Cruise) and his two children Rachel (Dakota Fanning) and Robbie (Justin Chatwin) trying to escape the alien invasion. The aliens are relentless and terrifying as they displace millions of people.

There’s no where to run, there’s no where to hide and there’s no way to kill the aliens and their machines.

Horrifying!

Ray soon finds a safe haven with a man named Harlan who takes them in. But Harlan begins to lose his cool and Ray realises that with the pressure on, it’s survival of the fittest – the aliens are no longer the only danger.

Steven Spielberg aced the art of suspense, but so has Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning – they are both incredibly talented no matter what you think about them on a personal level. They’ve done well to capture the essence of our most primal fears and created a blockbuster film out of it.

Although, Tom Cruise and Steven Spielberg do turn this global disaster into a very American hero, nuclear family sort of story. I think it would have been a little more raw and real if it was English-made. Or maybe I’m just being too patriotic.

To me, this film is a classic in many ways. I can see the essence of Signs in this retelling of War of the Worlds, and I have seen War of the Worlds echoing in many sci-fi invasion films since.

Jodie’s rating: 7/10

Signs

Director: M. Night Shyamalan
Writer: M. Night Shyamalan
Released: August 2002
Starring: Mel Gibson, Joaquin Phoenix, Rory Culkin, Abigail Breslin
—

What a shame.

I love The Sixth Sense. I love The Village. I love Split. Unbreakable was pretty cool. But how has Signs not kept up with the Shyamalan grade?

I love a good sci-fi thriller as much as the next person, but this had all the potential and none of the thrills.

It’s about Father Graham Hess (Mel Gibson – I guess Bruce Willis was sick that day) who has lost faith in God after his wife was killed by a driver, Ray (M. Night Shyamalan), who fell asleep at the wheel. If he had fallen asleep and veered off the road at literally any other point during his journey, then Graham’s wife would still be alive. This fact haunts both Graham and Ray.

Ray: I’ve never fallen asleep while driving before. It had to be at that right moment. That 10-15 seconds when I passed her walking. It’s like it was meant to be.

This theme of fate and destiny plays a large part in this film.

Graham: People break down into two groups. When they experience something lucky, group number one sees it as more than luck, more than coincidence. They see it as a sign, evidence, that there is someone up there, watching out for them. Group number two sees it as just pure luck. Just a happy turn of chance…

Meanwhile, what is supposed to be the main plot point takes a back seat thanks to all the internal conflict: Graham has bloody great big crop circles appearing on his land. Then, unidentified intruders begin to appear on his property.

His younger brother Merrill (Joaquin Phoenix) and Graham’s two children Bo (Abigail Breslin) and Morgan (Rory Culkin – Haley Joel Osment must not have been available) hide in the basement when the aliens begin to attack.

Now I see what helped inspire the Tom Cruise film War of the Worlds. Especially with the whole single dad and smart-ass children thing going on. Cruise’s character is even call Ray in War of the Worlds – just like Shyamalan’s character in this movie!

Unfortunately, the Morgan character was such a little know-it-all that he’d basically tell the audience exactly what was going to happen, just before it happened. So by the time the aliens did invade, you already knew what they’d do and why anyway.

In addition to his over-shares, was that we are shown the aliens in broad daylight – big mistake. It’s far more scary when you don’t know what the monsters look like.

If that wasn’t enough, the lack of music did not work in the film’s favour at all. Isn’t that rule number one of filmmaking? It’s the music that sets the mood, but the lack of if in vital scenes during this film meant that there were many points where it fell flat instead of making you jump.

Bo: There’s a monster outside my room, can I have a glass of water?

Very flat. To the point where the story of alien invasion ground to a halt while Graham reflected on his faith and internalised emotional conflict.

The story was trying to be more complex and more philosophical than it needs to be, with jarringly comedic dialogue to snap you out of any suspense that may have been growing. It drags the film to a crawl and you no longer feel afraid – which, I’m certain was the opposite effect they were going for.

Graham: Everybody in this family needs to just calm down and eat some fruit or something.

There were too many monologues and too many over-layered scenes for me to really get stuck in.

I’m so disappointed because I can see this story had so much potential, I just think it was executed in the wrong way. Which is doubly-disappointing because the genius M. Night Shyamalan is behind it all.

What happened?

Jodie’s rating: 3/10

Cloverfield

Director: Matt Reeves
Writer: Drew Goddard
Released: January 2008
Starring: Lizzy Caplan, Jessica Lucas, T.J. Miller, Michael Stahl-David, Mike Vogel, Odette Yustman
—

Cloverfield is basically The Blair Witch Project but set during an apocalypse in a city, rather than a witch hunt in the woods. I thought it would be an easy watch, and perhaps even a good film as I’ve always heard it being referenced to.

(Not to be confused with 10 Cloverfield Lane, which is the second instalment.)

But it was not entertaining, exciting or scary. I was hanging on by a shoestring the whole time I was watching it, holding on to the possibility that it might get better. But then it ended.

I felt incredibly deflated. But kudos for keeping me hooked just enough for me not to turn the film off.

Basically, a guy called Rob (Michael Stahl-David) is leaving America and going to Japan and all his friends and work colleagues throw him a surprise party. Rob’s camera is given to a friend called Hudson (T.J. Miller) who is in charge of filming the party and testimonials. One woman, Beth (Odette Yustman) , speaks to camera and it’s revealed that she is the ex-girlfriend who is clearly still in love with Rob. Rob feels the same way, shown by the regret he expresses when she leaves the party – just before the lights go out in the city.

Suddenly, buildings are falling and everyone scatters into the city streets. Hudson is still filming everything and he sticks close to Rob who is hell-bent on finding Beth, who he decides is the love of his life. In the distance a large shadow can be seen – a monster who is smashing up the street.

It reminded me of Godzilla meets War of the Worlds in that respect. But a far more simplified and cheesy version.

I appreciate there are many qualities in this film that would make it ideal to study at school: A small group of characters on a quest despite the uphill struggle and imminent danger posed by a monster. Simple film techniques and good use of sound effects in the place of music. It’s a relatable environment, and the storyline plays on our fears.

But quite frankly, it was boring. Without giving away too much, the open-ending was incredibly unsatisfying and way too many of the core characters get killed off, which is a let-down because most films need a hero in order for the audience to feel content at the end.

I would say it was a brilliant, if not predictable, film if you told me it was made by a group of self-funded film school students. But surprisingly, Paramount Pictures is behind this.

All in all, you’ll find yourself scoffing and eye-rolling rather than watching through sweaty fingers at the end of your seat.

Jodie’s rating: 4/10

Maleficent

Director: Robert Stromberg
Writer: Linda Woolverton (screenplay), Charles Perrault and Disney (story and characters)
Released: May 2014
Starring: Angelina Jolie, Sharlto Copley, Elle Fanning, Sam Riley, Imelda Staunton, Juno Temple, Lesley Manville
—

I had disregarded Maleficent as a boring and unnecessary retelling of a well-known fairytale. But I asked around and heard such positive reviews about it, so I decided to give it a chance especially because Sleeping Beauty is one of my favourites and Maleficent is about the ‘baddie’ of that tale.

Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) is a powerful fairy who lives in a land adjacent to a town. One day, she meets a human man called Stefan (Michael Higgins (child), Jackson Bews (teen)) and they fall in love. Unfortunately, they drift apart because Stefan is all like, ‘I want power, money and control; I’m going get a job in our local castle’. But she’s like, ‘oh no, I’m heartbroken’.

Years later, Stefan returns to Maleficent’s land as an adult (Sharlto Copley). He pretends to be in love with her still, but actually he’s their at the request of the king to kill Maleficent in order to govern her fairy land. Stefan doesn’t have the heart to kill her, but he does burn her wings off.

She’s pissed about this.

So she enlists the help of a crow (Sam Riley) to watch the castle as Stefan eventually becomes king, gets married and has his first child: Aurora. And the rest is history.

What I love is that Maleficent turns into a jealousy-fuelled, hardened bitch, just like any human would if they were heartbroken. I love this about her character; it’s quite comical. It reminds me of the resentment carried by Charlize Theron in Young Adult.

This story is full of feminist themes and ‘girl-power’ – specifically the part where the spell is no longer broken by a handsome prince’s kiss (very similar to Frozen actually). While I get that Disney is trying to move with the times, I would like to make it clear that as a woman I would not be offended by a princess falling in love with a handsome man and living happily ever after.

In addition to this, while I’m happy for films to have feminist themes, I don’t think that should necessarily mean that men in the story should be demonised as a result. Not only is King Stefan’s actions the sole reason behind Maleficent’s curse, but the handsome Prince Phillip (Brenton Thwaites) is powerless in this version of the story.

Prince Phillip: I’m looking for a girl.
Maleficent: Of course you are.

Nevertheless, I appreciate this is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty from the perspective of the enemy. Which, is an inspiring tale – there really are two sides to every story.

The film looks very much like a stage show with unrealistic landscapes, which I personally didn’t like because I couldn’t lose myself in the story.

But the casting was well done. Angelina Jolie’s cheekbones were the star of the show, and her portrayal of a vengeful woman was brilliant, even funny at times.

[Maleficent is magically healing damaged trees in the woods]
Aurora: Hello.
[Maleficent turns around to see a smiling toddler Aurora]
Maleficent: Go away.
[Aurora walks closer to Maleficent]
Maleficent: Go. Go away.
[Aurora hugs Maleficent]
Maleficent: I don’t like children.

Sharlto Copley is still playing the most terrifying characters in film. And, Aurora (Elle Fanning) was annoyingly perfect, but the three fairy godmothers did bestow her with permanent happiness and beauty, so I guess that’s not the actor’s fault for having zero emotion.

I love the idea of having the story told from the baddie’s point-of-view. I hope to see more fairytales told in this way. I’m looking forward to Cruella de Vil actually. It’s in pre-production and stars Emma Stone as the famous villain.

But overall, I found the fake environment difficult to accept, and the large step away from the traditional storyline was a bit disappointing… I’m still in love with the love story of the 1959 Sleeping Beauty.

Also, the horses didn’t play a large enough role for my liking.

Let’s keep an eye-out for Maleficent 2 though! It’s currently being filmed.

Jodie’s rating: 4/10

Sex and the City 1 & 2

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Director: Michael Patrick King
Writer: Michael Patrick King (screenplay), Candace Bushnell (story/characters)
Released: May 2008, May 2010
Starring: Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, Cynthia Nixon
—

Sex and the City has recently celebrated its 20th anniversary since the TV series of the same name was aired. Coincidently, I watched the Sex and the City movies for the first time ever merely a week ago (and have only just learnt it was based on a book and a TV series!).

Basically, I had to see what all the fuss was about. I always hear references to it, but was never entirely sure what it was about so I watched both movies in one sitting. (While drinking wine and eating vegan fish fingers.)

The reason why I’m combining the reviews of Sex and the City and Sex and the City 2 is because I found them to be very similar stories, with neither one more enjoyable than the other.

These films are all about the characters: Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker), Samantha Jones (Kim Cattrall), Charlotte York Goldenblatt (Kristin Davis) and Miranda Hobbes (Cynthia Nixon). Therefore, your first task is to pick your favourite.

sex and the city2.jpg Mine is Charlotte because she’s happy in her relationship, has a solid family around her, she tends to worry a lot, and I love how elegantly she dresses. So I found her the most relatable and aspirational. She is also a very sensible person who ‘mothers’ the rest.

sex and the city3.jpg Carrie is a lot of people’s favourite as she has an on-again, off-again relationship and is stumbling through her love life not knowing which way is up. While many would find this scandalous and entertaining, I found her storyline with her long-term partner, Big (Chris Noth) (I don’t want to know why everyone calls him Big), irritating. I feel like she requires a good, hard slap to snap her out of her dizzy, juvenile daydream.

sex and the city4.jpg Samantha is the eldest and is pretty much a sex addict, so even though her storyline is hot and happening with lots of young, fit men, she was a tad too brash and screechy when she spoke for my liking.

sex and the city5.jpg Miranda has an unfortunate haircut. She’s also very pale and sinewy. I don’t like it. I think Nicole Kidman or Marcia Cross would have been better casting choices. (In fact, was Nicole Kidman’s character in Big Little Lies based on Miranda?)

The first film is about the girls going to Mexico after Carrie’s fiance, Big, ditches her at the alter. The honeymoon to Mexico was already booked, so they all jump a plane to enjoy it and to recover from heartbreak.

The second film is about the girls’ trip to Dubai. Samantha gets a free-of-charge, all-inclusive luxurious getaway for them all, but things start turning sour when Carrie bumps into an ex-boyfriend in the markets of Dubai – then kisses him! Even though she has a man back home. Bitch.

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Sex and the City is the film that excuses you from your sad, poor-person life and gives you a doorway to the life of luxury. It’s an escape into a world that is filled with money, men, scandals and branded bags.

I was personally expecting more scandal and more bitchiness; I think the movies could have done better to live up to their reputation. But it was okay. They’re movies are about extravagance and glamour, so I enjoyed them for what they were.

While there are rumours for a third instalment, I’m not convinced this will happen. Partially due to the apparent ‘feud’ between Sarah Jessica Parker and Kim Cattrall.

Jodie’s ratings: 4.5/10

The Sixth Sense

Director: M. Night Shyamalan
Writer: M. Night Shyamalan
Released: August 1999
Starring: Bruce Willis, Toni Collette, Olivia Williams, Haley Joel Osment
—

The Sixth Sense is another Shyamalan creation that everyone must see. It’s about a psychiatrist called Malcolm (Bruce Willis) who tries to help a traumatised and anxious child named Cole (Haley Joel Osment).

Cole reminds Malcolm of a patient he failed to save back in the day, the patient killed himself and Malcolm became adamant that he will never fail another patient again. Therefore, he persists in helping Cole despite his reluctance, and eventually Cole confides in him: “I see dead people.”

In conjunction with The Village and The Others, The Sixth Sense has a massive twist. While I’m sure many of you know the twist whether you’ve watched it or not, I’m hoping the younger generation are yet to experience the brilliance of this film. I wish I could watch it for the first time again!

Malcolm: Do you ever talk to your mom about how things are with Tommy?
Cole: I don’t tell her things.
Malcolm: Why not?
Cole: Because she doesn’t look at me like everybody else, and I don’t want her to. I don’t want her to know.
Malcolm: Know what?
Cole: That I’m a freak.

I remember my dad said that when it first came out in the cinema someone said ‘I saw that twist a mile off, it was so obvious.’ But I’m quite certain that this pompous movie-goer was lying. The script is genius and makes for a brilliant watch.

Cole: Grandma says hi.
[His mother (Toni Collette) looks up sharply]
Cole: She says she’s sorry for taking the bumblebee pendant. She just likes it a lot.

I think everyone in this film is an outstanding actor. But Toni Collette, who plays Cole’s mother, is absolutely incredible. I adore her so much – she’s so realistic. You can see the desperation in her eyes, trying to figure out what is wrong with her child. When she cries, I cry.

Lynn: Look at my face; I was not thinking anything bad about you.

The Sixth Sense is a particularly scary thriller, there are certainly several horror-heavy scenes that scared me when I was younger. However, I would encourage you to be brave and watch it anyway because it’s a touching and thought-provoking film. Definitely a must-watch!

As usual, Shyamalan has a guest appearance so keep an eye out for him!

Jodie’s rating: 7/10

I’d advise avoiding the below trailer. It’s an old-fashioned trailer, so it’s not that great and I think it over-shares the plot.

The Village

Director: M. Night Shyamalan
Writer: M. Night Shyamalan
Released: July 2004
Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Adrien Brody, Bryce Dallas Howard, William Hurt, Sigourney Weaver, Brendan Gleeson
—

The Village is my favourite M. Night Shyamalan film ever. I must have watched it at an impressionable time, because I still catch myself daydreaming about it.

It’s about a 19th century village surrounded by woods. It is said that there are dangerous creatures – The Ones We Do Not Speak Of – in the woods who will attack if anyone goes into their territory. The elders of the village are in charge of keeping the rest of the community safe, ensuring nobody wanders into the woods.

village2

However, when Lucius (Joaquin Phoenix) becomes ill, Ivy (Bryce Dallas Howard) volunteers to brave the woods in order to retrieve medicine from the towns beyond. Plot twist: Ivy is blind (that is definitely not the only plot twist).

Mrs. Clack: How could you have sent her. She is blind.
Ivy’s Father: She is more capable than most in this village. And she is led by love. The world moves for love. It kneels before it in awe.

Despite being a thriller, The Village is such an honest, romantic and innocent film that delves into the fundamental human connection between lovers Ivy and Lucius. It strips life right back and reveals what is important to people, and how far we would go to save the ones we love.

The script writing is divine. I’d like to have my house covered in quotes from these characters. I think Shyamalan’s writing overshadows his talent for directing.

Ivy: Sometimes we don’t do things we want to do so that others won’t know we want to do them.

What makes this film spectacular is the music. It really sets it apart from other thrillers. Hilary Hahn is a fantastic violinist and without her solos The Village wouldn’t have that tender and hopeful feel to it. It’s so emotive that it gives me shivers just listening to it on its own:

I would recommend this film to everyone. You don’t have to like thrillers to appreciate the beauty of this movie because the storyline is so pure and touching.

The most beautiful scene is the one below. Ivy proves Lucius’s loyalty and love during a raid on the village by Those Who We Do Not Speak Of. She stands with an out-stretched arm on the porch, knowing Lucius will not let her fall to the monsters who are on the hunt through their village. He saves her, and the use of slow motion and the frantic violins brings tears to my eyes!

At first I didn’t think Bryce Dallas Howard was a convincing blind person. However, after multiple watches, I realised that she can see faint colour and shadows. Which makes more sense.

Ivy: I do long to do boy things. Like that game the boys play at the stump. They put their backs to the woods and see how long they can wait before getting scared. It’s so exciting. I understand you hold the record? It will never be broken they say.
Lucius: It’s just childish games.

It’s a must-watch. If you get bored through the first half, which I hear some people do, please do persist because it’s well worth it.

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

The Devil Wears Prada

devil prada.jpg

Director: David Frankel
Writer: Aline Brosh McKenna (screenplay), Lauren Weisberger (novel)
Released: June 2006
Starring: Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci, Adrian Grenier, Simon Baker
—

This film is so underrated. It is funny, sensitive, sassy and stars Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt.

It’s about Andrea Sachs (Anne Hathaway) who is an aspiring journalist, but can only land a job as an assistant at a fashion magazine. While ‘millions of girls would die’ for this position, it’s a far cry from the journalism job she was after.

At the fashion magazine, Miranda (Meryl Streep) is a terrifying boss and manipulates people well. Andrea soon finds herself desperately trying to keep up with Miranda’s impossible standards, with no help from fellow assistant Emily (Emily Blunt), and her family life is soon neglected.

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Andrea: She’s vicious!

Ethics and morals come into play, with the question of whether it is possible to be successful without stabbing others in the back. How far would you be willing to go to achieve your dream?

I adore the cast in this film. Emily Blunt is unrecognisable, and plays the woman you love to hate. Quick fact: Stanley Tucci, who plays a fantastically sassy and passive-aggressive employee named Nigel in the film, married Emily Blunt’s sister.

Emily: …I’m on this new diet. Well, I don’t eat anything and when I feel like I’m about to faint I eat a cube of cheese. I’m just one stomach flu away from my goal weight.

Meryl Streep is her usual perfect self, and does an amazing job of being so intimidating! How anyone else was considered to play the part of Miranda is beyond me. Apparently Jennifer Aniston, Cameron Diaz and Gwenyth Paltrow were considered among many others.

Miranda: By all means move at a glacial pace. You know how that thrills me.

However, I think I know why: Meryl Streep threatened to leave production for not being paid enough. Meryl eventually agreed to being paid double than the original offer. She also cost too much to fly to Paris for the Paris-based scenes, so her parts are shot in America.

Miranda: Do you know why I hired you? I always hire the same girl – stylish, slender, of course. Worships the magazine. But so often, they turn out to be – I don’t know – disappointing and stupid. … I thought you would be different. I said to myself, go ahead. Take a chance. Hire the smart, fat girl…

Anne Hathaway… Well. I don’t actually like her very much, but she plays the part well, and is realistically the perfect choice. I applaud her for going from a size 6 down to a size 4 in real life, just like her character does in the film.

devilprada3

Andy: She’s not happy unless everyone around her is panicked, nauseous or suicidal.

If you love the fashion industry, then you’ll love this film. Equally, if you are striving for your dream, want a bit of a giggle, or if you worship Meryl Streep, then you’ll love The Devil Wears Prada too.

It’s a fun film with a funny and clever script and a fantastic cast. Although, Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt carry the story entirely on their shoulders. Without them, it wouldn’t be the successful film it has become.

I think it would be an enjoyable film for everyone – fashionista or not.

Jodie’s rating: 6.5/10

Eat Pray Love

Director: Ryan Murphy
Writer: Ryan Murphy Jennifer Salt (screenplay), Elizabeth Gilbert (novel)
Released: August 2010
Starring: Julia Roberts, James Franco, Richard Jenkins, Viola Davis, Billy Crudup, Javier Bardem
—

I have avoided writing this review for years because the thought of it exhausts me, as did the film.

Eat Pray Love is about Elizabeth Gilbert (Julia Roberts) who has a large home, a husband and a great job, but she feels empty and without an ‘appetite’ for life. She soon instigates a divorce from her husband (Billy Crudup) whom she feels no connection to, before having a rebound relationship with David (James Franco).

Elizabeth: Hadn’t I wanted this? I had actively participated in every moment of the creation of this life. So why didn’t I see myself in any of it? The only thing more impossible than staying… was leaving. I didn’t want to hurt anybody, I wanted to slip quietly out the back door and not stop running until I reached Greenland.

A comment in the early part of the film that sticks in my head is by Elizabeth’s best friend Delia (Viola Davis). She says that Elizabeth used to look like Steven (her ex-husband), and now she looked like David (her rebound boyfriend).

As in, she was trying to find herself in others and consequently copying the way they dressed. I thought that was insightful and very relatable because when you don’t know who you are, you pretend to be someone else.

So Elizabeth decides to go travelling for a year to Italy to find her appetite again (eat), then India to experience peace (pray), and then Bali for balance, which turns into love.

Elizabeth: I used to have this appetite for my life, and now it’s gone! …I want to go somewhere where I can marvel at something.

Julia Roberts was the perfect choice because she plays a down-to-earth, complicated and romantic character. Her character is also quite inspirational as she does exactly what she tells everyone she’s going to do; travel!

She’s especially inspirational in comparison to her rebound actor boyfriend David who talks a lot about what he’s going to do but never actually does it.

Elizabeth: If you’re brave enough to leave behind everything familiar and comforting, which can be anything from your house to bitter, old resentments, and set out on a truth-seeking journey… then the truth will not be withheld from you.

Eat Love Pray does have a particularly ‘privileged, rich, skinny, white woman is feeling sad’ kind of vibe. So I can imagine this detracts from the message significantly. Especially when the slim characters supposedly get ‘muffin tops’ from eating too much pizza and pasta. Like, girl, there’s nothing to you!

Nevertheless, there are a lot of philosophical lessons that are learnt by Elizabeth along the way, which I enjoy. It truly is a very personal discovery that she goes through, with her self-reflection and life lessons being relatable and aspirational.

In Italy, she learns to enjoy herself and not worry about her waistline. She learns to taste, enjoy, not feel guilty and to not deny herself of feeling good.

Luca Spaghetti: Americans! You work too hard. …you don’t know pleasure. You have to be told you’ve earned it. You see a commercial that says, “It’s Miller time”… and you say, “That’s right. Now I will go to buy a six-pack”. And drink the whole thing and wake up the next morning and you feel terrible.
But an Italian doesn’t need to be told. He walks by a sign that says, “You deserve a break today”… and he says, “Yeah, I know. That’s why I’m planning on taking a break at noon… to go over to your house and sleep with your wife”.

In India, she learns to block out the noise and to live in the moment. She learns to make peace with her past and let resentment go.

Richard from Texas: Big deal. So you fell in love with someone
Elizabeth: But I miss him.
Richard from Texas: So Miss him! Send him light and love when you think of him and then drop it!

Finally, in Bali, she discovers true love.

Filipe: You don’t need a man, Liz. You need a champion.

While in theory this should be a film I absolutely adore, unfortunately it is simply far too long (two and a half hours) with too many complicated internal conflicts to digest.

But I do appreciate that a lot of people can relate to running away from a ‘perfect’ life to search for themselves across the world.

Overall, it’s got strong messages but by the end I felt like I had travelled the world myself. I was exhausted.

Jodie’s rating: 5/10

Crazy, Stupid, Love

Directors: Glenn Ficarraa, John Requa
Writer: Dan Fogelman
Released: July 2011
Starring: Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, Emma Stone, Marisa Tomei, Kevin Bacon
—

Initially reminding me of other star-studded, multi-storyline films like Valentine’s Day, New Year’s Day and Love Actually, I didn’t have high-hopes for this ‘dramedy’. However, I was pleasantly surprised – it’s very funny indeed.

It follows several storylines that all end up being intertwined. But it begins with Emily (Julianne Moore) who cheats on her husband Cal (Steve Carrel). Jacob (Ryan Gosling) takes pity on a moping Cal and gives him a fashion and ego make-over.

Steve Carrel – who is also a producer of this movie – wanted the film to be called ‘The Wingman’ as it accurately described the main storyline. But it was eventually decided that it was a boring title and Crazy, Stupid, Love was chosen instead. (Even though it’s a girlie title, and inaccurate as there’s not a lot of ‘crazy’ in the film.)

Jacob: Are you the billionaire owner of Apple Computers?
Cal: No.
Jacob: Oh, ok. In that case, you’ve got no right to wear New Balance sneakers, ever.

Meanwhile, Jacob starts dating Hannah (Emma Stone), who I find to be very relatable and down-to-earth. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone have brilliant chemistry and have been a couple in two more films since Crazy, Stupid, Love – Gangster Squad and La La Land.

I feel like they should be together in real life too.

Hannah: Will you take off your shirt… Seriously? It’s like you’re Photoshopped!

Crazy, Stupid, Love delves into the unabashed journey of falling in love, including all the embarrassments and relatable moments. All the while, the jokes come thick and fast to keep the drama light.

It is a fun, quirky and hilarious film – it’s certainly an easy watch. This film is not as shallow as the promotions make it appear either, and the talented cast keep you laughing all the way through.

Jodie’s rating: 7/10

Cinderella (2015)

Director: Kenneth Branagh
Writer: Chris Weitz. Based on Disney’s Cinderella.
Released: March 2015
Starring: Cate Blanchett, Lily James, Richard Madden, Stellan Skarsgård, Holliday Grainger, Derek Jacobi, Helena Bonham Carter
—

Speaking of Disney live-action remakes and royal weddings, I remembered that I never wrote a review about Cinderella. There are so many Disney princess films and wedding movies on the tellie at the moment, so I thought I’d join in.

As with every Disney princess movie, one must take it with a pinch of salt. It will be a little cringe, over-dramatic, a little too perfect and very girly. But isn’t that what princess films are all about?

This live-action remake features Lily James as Cinderella, whose career seems to have been majorly boosted after this film came out. I remember at the time I was a bit disappointed in the casting because I didn’t know who this random was, but now I’d say it’s a perfect choice.

Not only was she the perfect ‘look’ for Cinderella, but she brought a little bit of personality to the character too (unlike Mia Wasikowska in Alice in Wonderland.). Lily James stays honest to the Cinderella we’ve come to know, while still being down to earth.

Ella’s mother: Have courage and be kind.

If you thought her waist was digitally made smaller, I can confirm this was not the case. Lily James has a naturally small 24 inch waist, and as she was wearing a corset in a billowy dress the appearance was an unnaturally tiny waist.

What about the glass slippers? While the close up of the glass slipper is real, it doesn’t actually fit Lily James’s foot. The rest of the time they’re CGI glass slippers.

Apparently Emma Watson was originally asked to play Cinders but she turned it down. She later went on to be cast as Belle in Beauty and the Beast.

Watson claimed she had more of an affinity with Belle than Cinderella. She also said Belle is a better role model, but I call BS on that statement. Disney princesses are all as shallow as each other. Just because Belle reads a lot doesn’t make her morally better than Cinderella.

I digress.

Helena Bonham Carter was a brilliant fairy godmother. Being in the Harry Potter movies perhaps made her well-practiced with a wand. She isn’t a sickly-sweet fairy godmother, in fact she’s rather brash, but it works!

(It is of course rather scandalous that she was cast because the director Kenneth Branagh cheated on Emma Thompson with Helena Bonham Carter back in the nineties.)

Fairy Godmother: Now off you go. For you shall go to the ball!

Cate Blanchett was the evil stepmother, and you truly came to hate her and her daughters. Cate and her bone structure are brilliant.

My favourite part is of course when the mice get turned into horses, the lizard into the coachman and the goose into a driver. It’s so magical!

Cinderella stays loyal to the original tale, and doesn’t try to be too different. It is a truly magical film, albeit cheesey. But isn’t that what Disney princess films are all about?

Jodie’s rating: 6/10

Saving Mr. Banks

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Welcome to the 400th post! It’s taken six years and four months to get here.

Director: John Lee Hancock
Writer: Kelly Marcel, Sue Smith
Released: November 2013
Starring: Emma Thompson, Tom Hanks, Paul Giamatti, Jason Schwartzman, Bradley Whitford, Colin Farrell
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I think Saving Mr. Banks is a brilliant take on the Mary Poppins story. It’s not a remake or a sequel, it’s more of the ‘behind the scenes’ of the classic Mary Poppins story. It’s the story behind the story.

It follows Pamela Travers (Emma Thompson) who is approached by Walt Disney (Tom Hanks) himself regarding her children’s book series, Mary Poppins.

Walt Disney: Look at you! I could eat you up!
P.L. Travers: That wouldn’t be appropriate.

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While we follow her reluctancy to give up the copyright, her guard is ever so slowly lowered as we begin to find out the root of her Poppins stories. They are in fact based on a lady who comes to look after young Travers and her siblings while her dad, ‘Mr. Banks’ (Colin Farrell) suffers alcoholism and slowly dies.

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It comes to be that the Mary Poppins character in Travers’s childhood is a woman who isn’t there to save her or her siblings, but is there to try and save her beloved father. Hence why Travers is so reluctant to have her stories meddled with; she’s still coming to terms with the guilt.

Walt Disney: “No whimsy or sentiment!” says the woman who sends a flying nanny with a talking umbrella to save the children.
P.L. Travers: You think Mary Poppins is saving the children, Mr. Disney?
[Walt and the other filmmakers are stunned silent]
P.L. Travers: Oh, dear!

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Throughout the melancholy scenes are the uplifting songs that Walt Disney’s composers are developing. The music that we associate with the 1964 Mary Poppins musical is reused to support Travers’s journey of trusting Walt Disney and their rocky working relationship.

Richard Sherman: Room here for everyone / Gather around / The constable’s “responstible!” / Now how does that sound?
P.L. Travers: No, no, no, no, no! “Responstible” is not a word!
Richard Sherman: We made it up.
P.L. Travers: Well, un-make it up.

Saving Mr Banks is an incredible story that simultaneously warms and breaks your heart. I was crying my eyes out through much of this film, especially the ‘let’s go fly a kite’ scene, holy Jesus. It brings a whole new meaning and depth to the Mary Poppins we have come to know.

Tom Hanks was the perfect choice to play Walt Disney. They both have an optimistic persona, while being untouchable American treasures.

I love this ‘prequel’ of sorts to the Julie Andrews musical. It’s entertaining and insightful, although perhaps a little dry in places, and a little too heavy in others.

Jodie’s rating: 6/10

Top 7: Live-Action Disney Remakes Coming Soon

Disney has been creating films since 1923, beginning with an Alice in Wonderland cartoon series. But it wasn’t until 1937 that the memorable Snow White and the Seven Dwarves animation was released. Ever since then, Disney Studios has had a fairytale film career with many major successes.

I’m sure everyone holds a Disney animation close to their hearts because of its influence on our childhoods. (Mine is Sleeping Beauty (1959), which I grew up watching on VHS throughout the nineties.) Even today, children are still growing up watching Disney films.

Disney is continuing with its successful films about princesses and magic, but more live-action remakes of the classics are in development rather than brand new animated tales.

It seems we can’t stop loving the old stories. Or, perhaps the old-fashioned animations don’t fascinate the iPad-savvy kids of today.

WHAT REMAKES ARE COMING NEXT?
With rumours of The Lion King being remade as a live-action, I didn’t realise how many more are in the pipeline until I looked into it.

Most recently, the trailer for the film Mowgli was released by Warner Brothers.
(Although, does anyone else feel like this is an identical remake of Disney’s live-action The Jungle Book? Read about the twin movie phenomenon here.)

See if your favourite Disney picture is being remade as a live-action below.
Which one are you most excited for?

Christopher Robin (2018)
Remake of: Disney’s Winnie the Pooh (1966)
Although not my cup of tea, I appreciate that Winnie the Pooh is close to the hearts of many, and after watching the trailer (please see below) I expect to cry all the way through it anyway. This live-action film is directed by Marc Forster and will be released this coming August. Christopher Robin is all grown up in this film, and will be played by Ewen McGregor.

Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
Sequel to: Mary Poppins (1964)
Emily Blunt will star as Mary Poppins in Mary Poppins Returns, which is to be released at Christmas time this year. That’s 54 years after the original live-action Mary Poppins film, which is the longest gap between live-action film sequels in history. It’ll also star the beloved Julie Walters, Colin Firth, Meryl Streep and Ben Whishaw. While not technically a remake, it is a live-action sequel of the beloved Mary Poppins.

Dumbo (2019)
Remake of: Dumbo (1941)
(Yeah, I’m put off by the above image too.) Dumbo, the live-action remake, will be released in March 2019 and directed by Tim Burton. Burton is a natural choice because he began his career on Disney’s Fox and the Hound (1981), co-produced James and the Giant Peach before directing Alice in Wonderland (2010) and Alice through the Looking Glass (2016). Dumbo will star Colin Farell, Michael Keaton and Danny DeVito.

Aladdin (2019)
Remake of: Aladdin (1992)
To be released in May 2019, this live-action remake will be directed by Guy Ritchie, co-written by John August (Big Fish) and will feature Will Smith as the genie (I miss Robin Williams!). However, there has been some controversy regarding casting, with complaints from fans of ‘white-washing’ after non-Arab, non-Middle Eastern actors were cast.

The Lion King (2019)
Remake of: The Lion King (1994)
To be released in July 2019, I’m sure this is one of the most anticipated live-action Disney films since the release of the animation in 1994. Directed by Jon Favreau (Elf) with Donald Glover cast as Simba, Beyonce as Narla, and Billy Eichner and Seth Rogan as Timon and Pumbaa respectively.

Mulan (2020)
Remake of: Mulan (1998)
I get told off frequently when I admit that I haven’t seen the original animated Mulan, but I hear it is a favourite for many. The storyline is different to all other Disney princess fairytales after all. Not much is known about the film yet but casting for Mulan appears to have been a bit of a drag as casting took place across five continents and 1000 people were auditioned for the iconic part. The director is New Zealand’s very own Niki Caro.

Cruella (TBC)
Spin off of: One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961)
We know jack about Cruella de Vil so far, only that Cruella will be played by the amazing Emma Stone. Strange choice, but I have full confidence that Emma Stone will be brilliant.

There are even more live-action Disney films in early development including Pinocchio, another Snow White film called Rose Red, and a Cinderella-based film called Prince Charming.

There’s a Lady and the Tramp live-action/CGI version coming out in 2019. This is to be directed by Charlie Bean.

The Little Mermaid is being made into a live-action three times! The first one is to be released is a loosely-based indie version, which is to come out in 2019. Universal is working on a version with Richard Curtis as the writer and starring Chloe Moretz, and Disney is in extremely early talks about their film.

There’s also two Peter Pan films in the making: Peter Pan is to be directed by David Lowery, and fans are crossing their fingers hoping that Tom Hiddleston will be cast as Captain Hook. The second Pan film is Tinker Bell, featuring Reece Witherspoon (originally Elizabeth Banks) as Tink!

(Thanks to time.com for the tip offs!)

TIMELINE OF THE DISNEY CLASSICS:
Which is your childhood favourite?

1937 – Snow White and the Seven Dwarves
1940 – Pinocchio
1941 – Dumbo
1942 – Bambi
1950 – Cinderella
– Disney’s first ever live-action film Treasure Island
1951 – Alice in Wonderland
1953 – Peter Pan
1955 – Lady and the Tramp
1959 – Sleeping Beauty
1961 – One Hundred and One Dalmatians
1964 – Mary Poppins (live-action)
1966 – Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree
– Walt Disney dies on December 15 of lung cancer
1967 – The Jungle Book
1970 – The Aristocats
1973 – Robin Hood
1981 – The Fox and the Hound
– First Disney home video released (Dumbo)
1989 – The Little Mermaid
1991 – Beauty and the Beast
1992 – Aladdin
1994 – The Lion King
1995 – Pocahontas, Toy Story
1996 – The Hunchback of Notre Dame, James and the Giant Peach, 101 Dalmations (live-action)
1997 – Hercules
– First Disney DVDs released
1998 – Mulan, A Bug’s Life
1999 – Tarzan, Toy Story 2
2000 – The Emperor’s New Groove, 102 Dalmatians (live-action)
2001 – Monsters, Inc.
2002 – Lilo & Stitch
2003 – Finding Nemo
2004 – The Incredibles
2006 – Cars
– Disney acquires Pixar studios
2007 – Ratatouille
2009 – Up, A Christmas Carol
2010 – Alice in Wonderland (live-action), Toy Story 3, Tangled
2012 – Wreck-It Ralph
2013 – Oz: The Great and Powerful (live-action), Monsters University, Frozen
2014 – Big Hero 6
2015 – Cinderella (live-action), Inside Out, Brave
2016 – The Jungle Book (live-action), Alice Through the Looking Glass (live-action), Finding Dory, The BFG (live-action), Moana
2017 – Beauty and the Beast (live-action)
2018 – The Incredibles 2
2019 – Toy Story 4, Frozen 2

Along with the classics are well-known stories with a twist: Saving Mr Banks is the heartwarming ‘behind the scenes’ story of Mary Poppins, while Maleficent is about the villain in Sleeping Beauty, and Into the Woods is a jumble of well-known fairytale characters in a musical.

Tangled

Director: Nathan Greno, Byron Howard
Writer: Dan Fogelman. Based on Rapunzel by Brothers Grimm
Starring: Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi, Donna Murphy
Released: November 2010
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Based on the Brothers Grimm classic, Rapunzel, this modern tale Tangled brings the comedy back.

While it’s sad that Harry and Meghan’s Royal Wedding is now over, we can at least enjoy all the other Royal Weddings on the big screen – including Rapunzel’s. Tangled may be eight years old, and the original story released in 1812, but Rapunzel is still a classic!

A notorious thief called Eugene Fitzherbert AKA ‘Flynn Rider’ (Zachary Levi), finds a tall tower to climb and hide in while being chased. But he soon realises he’s not alone. Rapunzel (Mandy Moore) is energetic and naive, but well-trained in self-defence. Skills that come in handy when Flynn intrudes.

Quick note: Zachary Levi sounds an awful lot like Will Ferrell in Megamind…

She has been locked in this tall tower by the witch, Mother Gothel (Donna Murphy), who unbeknown to Rapunzel, raised her after being kidnapped from the king and queen at birth.

As per traditional fairytales, our heroine has an animal best friend by her side. In this case it’s a chameleon called Pascal who mocks Flynn frequently. However, my favourite animal is by far the horse (of course) named Maximus. He is incredibly sassy and reminds me a lot of my pony’s personality. Worryingly.

This is a fun fairytale that has some much needed updating. While our heroine has retained her innocence, she is far from helpless and uses her hair as a weapon rather than solely a lure for handsome men to climb.

Despite it not being Disney’s best princess film, and despite the frequent songs (which is to be expected I know) this is a quirky, funny and thoroughly enjoyable Sunday afternoon watch with the family.

Jodie’s rating: 6/10

Life of the Party

Director: Ben Falcone
Writers: Ben Falcone, Melissa McCarthy and Chris Henchy
Released: May 2018
Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Gillian Jacobs, Maya Rudolph, Julie Bowen, Matt Walsh, Molly Gordon, Stephen Root, Jacki Weaver
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I love Melissa McCarthy, but I lowered my expectations after reading a fair few below-average reviews about her new film Life of the Party.

This didn’t deter me though, so my brother-in-law and I went to the cinema. Within ten minutes we were choking on our popcorn during fits of laughter, and getting stitches as we tried to stifle our chortles! Almost every scene was hilarious. By the end of the film, I had mascara streaked down my cheeks and a mild headache from trying not to laugh too loud.

It is by far the funniest film I’ve seen so far this year. (Although, as the only film I’ve seen so far this year is A Quiet Place, Darkest Hour and Split I guess that’s not saying much.)

It’s about a kind and sweet mother called Deanna (Melissa McCarthy), whose husband suddenly tells her he wants a divorce. Within a week, she picked herself up and decided to finish her archeology degree at the same college/university as her daughter, Maddie (Molly Gordon).

Deanna: I’m down to clown.

Life of the Party is co-written and directed by McCarthy’s real-life husband Ben Falcone (AKA Air Marshall John), who tends to have a cameo in her films. (This movie was no exception, so keep an eye out for him.)

It must have been so hard for him to write and direct his wife doing kissing scenes… I watched an interview about it and he said the love scene was shot on their tenth anniversary. But it was okay, he said. They seem so down to earth as a couple! I love them.

Quick fact: McCarthy and Falcone’s fathers feature in the film as the racquetball guys.

What makes this movie great is how wholesome and lovable Deanna is, and how the majority of characters love her too! There’s always a couple of mean girls at uni of course – Jennifer (Debby Ryan) and her side-kick – but Deanna takes them in her stride and has some very cheesy come-backs.

But the real ‘bad-guy’ is her husband’s new wife, Marcie (Julie Bowen, AKA the mum from Modern Family). She does an incredible job of being evil, and the story becomes rather revengeful. Which, is extremely entertaining.

There are a couple of scenes in particular that made me lose control in thick fits of giggles. One of them is the infamous presentation scene where poor Deanna gets so nervous that she sweats profusely. After reaching for tissues to dab her face with, she turns around to reveal her cheeks covered with white fluff where the tissue stuck to her. I lost it.

The other scene to look forward to is the dance-off where Deanna goes to a 1980s themed party and has a dance fight with horrid Jennifer. I died.

And in between these scenes is Maya Rudolph’s character, Christine! Holy Jesus, she was so so funny. She was brilliant! I want a best friend like Christine.

Christine: THAT’S MAH GIRL! THAT’S MAH LADY RIGHT THERE!

With limited swearing and rudeness, Life of the Party is a feel-good film. There are a couple of characters I’d change up, but for the most part you will be grinning in between fits of laugh-out-loud hysterics. You’ll leave the cinema with a page out of Deanna’s book of being super friendly, motherly and kind to everyone.

In fact, I went to Sainsbury’s after this film and I was still channeling Deanna’s positivity. I must have traded my ‘resting bitch face’ for a grin because a lot of people were smiling back at me. Not sure if this was to do with my panda eyes though.

My advice is to ignore the below average reviews, take this sweet film at face value and have a laugh. It’ll make you feel better.

I’m so keen to see this movie again.

Jodie’s rating: 6.5/10