All Film Reviews – Page 5

Rebirth (web series)

Rebirth web series review

Director: Kristopher Stoltz
Writer: Kristopher Stoltz
Production company: Non-Human Films
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Rebirth is a horror web series that follows a group of survivors who are being hunted by a faceless enemy.

The editing is snappy and the lighting is well done in the dimness of the shots. Almost in the style of The Blair Witch Project – or any of the other ‘home movie’ style paranormal horrors of late – the shaky camera work and point of view shots work well in the series.

The creepy sound effects were what really got me on edge, though. The screechy sounds actually made me jump in the first episode.

The actual storyline, however, is a tad ambiguous. Perhaps a shot to set the scene, or a few words before the episode commences would help put the story and characters into perspective.

The voiceover, although helpful, does sound like the beginning of a comedy/drama.. “In a world…”, which doesn’t completely keep you in the zone of a horror.

Despite these little things I would tweek, Rebirth is a short and snappy creepy horror, with great sound effects and editing. The feel of this web series reminds me of Slenderman, a point of view computer game where the player has to avoid a faceless creeper in the woods.

Check it out on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and their site www.nonhumanfilms.com

Deadpool

Deadpool movie review

Director: Tim Miller
Writer: Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick
Released: February 2016
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin, Ed Skrein, T. J. Miller, Gina Carano, Brianna Hildebrand and Stefan Kapičić
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I only had a vague idea of what Deadpool was. I hadn’t seen the trailer, but countless people had recommended the superhero film, saying it was hilarious.

Frankly, you’d have to have a bit of a dark side to you, tough skinned, if you will. A bit of black humour, to have a full-on belly laugh at this film.

The blood, gore and violence reminded me of Watchmen – no one warned me of this… So, consider this a warning to all the girlfriends who have been convinced by their boyfriends that this is a funny film.

It is…

But.

It’s also incredibly gory.
Deadpool film review For those of you non-comic-book people out there, basically Wade Wilson aka Deadpool (Ryan Reynolds) is a sarcastic, normal dude who has got mutated in some creepy underground experimentation lab.

It turns him into a super-human being, but with an incorrigible urge for revenge on those who made him the way he is; scarred and invincible. As well as an insatiable urge to win back his girlfriend, who currently thinks he’s dead.

The main character, Deadpool, is most certainly sarcastic, light-hearted, with a few funny come-backs. I can see why the protagonist’s cockiness can get on some people’s nerves though.

Deadpool film review This is mostly due to the film blatantly making fun of itself, breaking fourth walls frequently, and generally not taking itself seriously at all. It is essentially a mock-hero film. Like the film Vampires Suck – a spoof of Twilight. Or, The Starving Games – spoof of the Hunger Games.

Deadpool has been made with a far larger budget, of course. Taking the sarcasm and irony from Iron Man and the violence from Watchmen.

Fun fact: Ryan Reynolds was engaged to singer Alanis Morrisette, then he was married to Scarlett Johansson!

*No one cares*

I would say it’s pretty average over all. But this is a superhero film – which is basically a chick flick for men. As in, if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all.

You can’t take it too seriously. It’s funny enough, and for men in their mid-twenties, early-thirties who are comic book, video games know-it-alls, it will be the peanut butter and jam sandwich with chocolate sprinkles of superhero films – you’ll love it.

For the rest of us, however, it was sufficient. Although, potentially irritating and gross.

Jodie’s rating: 5/10

Crash Testing (short film)

Crash Testing short film review

That is so freaky… I love it!

Crash Testing is a short 4 minute animation showing the life and desires of a crash dummy – the ones companies put into vehicles to see how a body would fare in a car crash.

Not a word of dialogue, which works so well. The sound effects tell the story incredibly well. This is a whole art form in itself, which is so well utilised in this animation.

Crash Testing short film review I’m not a scholar, so I’m probably only grazing the surface with this interpretation of the story.
But I walked away from it thinking how everyone wants to leave their mark behind. Death is inevitable for everyone, but this character still goes ahead bravely and leaves his story behind at every crash. The character does this by painting his face before the crash, leaving a mark on the air bags.

I love the slow motion graphics! I got chills.

Very well done indeed! Quite creepy. Quite moving too, though.

Keep an eye out for when you can see it on their Facebook page.

Jodie

He’s Got Character (Short film)

A film by W.D. Stevens.

I enjoyed the concept of the storyline very much – a love triangle between a play director, the actor and the actor’s character. The director falls for the character, but not the actor, and has to think up a clever way to get out of it.

It almost reminds me of Stranger Than Fiction in a way – how someone can be so close to a person when they are a distant idea, only to become discouraged by their flaws and complexities in real life. It’s the difference between the idea of a person, and reality – like meeting a celebrity, I guess.

The acting was pretty good, particularly by Melbourne actress Lore Burns.

I think the story had a great loop, making a parallel of the beginning and ending. It’s well written, incorporating the intimacy of the play within the movie, with the storyline of the film.

I think it would work on a deeper level if the story was layered and extended, as just when you start to figure out the characters, the film comes to a conclusion.

Pretty good over all though. I can see they’ve done well with the resources they had.

Jodie

Brooklyn

Brooklyn movie poster review

Director: John Crowley
Writer: Screenplay by Nick Hornby, based on novel by Colm Tóibín
Released: November 2015
Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Emory Cohen, Domhnall Gleeson Jim Broadbent, Julie Walters
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I am ashamed how close I came to watching Tina Fey’s new movie, Sisters, rather than seeing this touching drama. (I still reckon Tina Fey is a genius, though.)

After seeing the Brooklyn trailer I was prepared to see a slow-paced, sullen and potentially grim film. But this was not the case!

I walked out of the cinema feeling uplifted, positive and encouraged. I felt as though I’d been wrapped up in a big, fat duvet, sung a lullaby while sipping on hot cocoa inside by the fire during a blizzard… It gave me the warm and fuzzies, and made me feel happy.

It’s about young Eilis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan) who is having a tough time growing up in Ireland, with not much in the way of a job, opportunities or a meaningful future.

Eilis’ sister sends her to Brooklyn to give her a chance at a better life, leaving her small family behind, devastated. However, she’s promptly set up with a job, warms to living in a loving boarding house, and meets a plucky Italian feller (Emory Cohen).

But tragedy strikes, and she must return to Ireland. Brooklyn film review in Ireland wearing yellow dress This is where she meets a charming Irishman (Domhnall Gleeson), and must choose between the life she has always hoped for in Ireland with her family, and the life she has made for herself back in Brooklyn.

Father Flood: Homesickness is like most sicknesses, it will pass. It will make you feel wretched, and then it will move on to someone else.

Based in the 1950s, Brooklyn is a bright, feel-good movie with beautiful dresses and make-up, as well as having an incredibly romantic storyline.

It’s another screenplay masterpiece by the amazing Nick Horny (About A Boy, Wild). It has fantastic lines from Julie Walters’ character, Mrs. Keogh – I adore her. I can’t express how perfect she was for this motherly role, keeping the film upbeat and comforting.

Mrs. Keogh: I’ll tell you this much: I am going to ask Father Flood to preach a sermon on the dangers of giddiness. I now see that giddiness is the eighth deadly sin. A giddy girl is every bit as evil as a slothful man, and the noise she makes is a lot worse. Now, enough.

Mrs. Keogh: [in response to someone saying ‘oh God’ to stockings at a store called Bartocci’s] I’ll thank you to keep His name out of a conversation about nylons, thank you very much. He might be everywhere, but He’s not in Bartocci’s on sale day.

Brooklyn film review coming back to Tony end scene A heart-wrenching, relatable and deeply emotional story. I loved it. I laughed, I sobbed (wait for the part where the homeless man sings – I got chills), I was totally engaged from beginning to end.

If I must be so picky, though… The second half of the movie – where she returns to Ireland – lacks the intensity of the first half. It didn’t so much sag, but it did slow in pace a tad, making it a little unclear how conflicted she really is about whether she should stay or leave.

Nevertheless, this is a movie I wish I could watch again and again, to fully immerse myself in the 1950s culture, beautiful lighting and cinematography… And drool every time Tony the Italian man spoke in a dreamy Brooklyn accent.

It tugs on the heart-strings, for sure.

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

The Time Traveler’s Wife

The Time Traveller's Wife film review poster

Director: Robert Schwentke
Writer: Bruce Joel Rubin. Based on the novel by Audrey Niffeneger
Released: August 2009
Starring: Rachel McAdams, Eric Bana, Ron Livingston
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A heart-breaking story about, not the person who leaves, but the person who’s perpetually left behind.

I like this unusual perspective, particularly since time travel is such an attractive, but foreign concept. Yet, the story is focused on the more human and deeply relatable themes.

The Time Traveller's Wife review in library I’ve heard the book is fantastic – I’m going to read it this summer. But, the movie is exquisite. If you haven’t seen or read The Time Traveler’s Wife, the low-down is that a man is a time traveller and his wife is not. The time traveller, named Henry (Eric Bana) can’t control his travelling, so his impromptu disappearances and reappearances become a way of life for his wife Clare Abshire (Rachel McAdams).

Clare: I’ve been here for two weeks wanting to talk to you. What do you want to talk about? How bad it feels to sit here and wait for you?

My favourite song in the movie is Love Will Tear Us Apart by Broken Social Scene. It plays during the wedding, where Clare is to marry Henry – currently a nervous, attractive young man. But just before he is to be at the alter, he time travels. Within minutes, his grey-haired, older self appears to take his place – becoming the person Clare marries. The Time Traveller's Wife film review at wedding

I love time travel, so the intricacies and non-linear storyline is like cotton candy and lollipops and rainbows and unicorns for me.

Even if you’re not a time travel nut, most people will appreciate how well the movie portrays the sense of loss. As when a loved one goes away, it’s usually harder for the person left behind to pick up the pieces and carry on. The Time Traveller's Wife film review at restaurant
Every time Henry disappears, the camera stays on Clare; left to finish dinner by herself, left to spend Christmas on her own, left to unpack in their new house by herself – unsure whether to sit and wait, or to continue regardless.

On a shallow note, Rachel McAdams is so gorgeous in this film, I can’t even look at myself in the mirror after watching this movie without despairing.

A beautiful, tragic and magical tale, of two people who try to have a normal life, in the most abnormal of circumstances. Told in a straight-forward, beginning to end fashion, but with a non-linear character. A classic “big ball of wibbly wobbly, timey-wimey… Stuff.” (Dr. Who reference there…)

For people who love romance and drama, but who find chick-flicks boring.

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

Suffragette

suffragette poster film review

Director: Sarah Gavron
Writer: Abi Morgan
Released: October 2015 (Boxing Day in NZ though…)
Starring: Carey Mulligan, Helena Bonham Carter, Brendan Gleeson, Anne-Marie Duff, Ben Whishaw and Meryl Streep
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As you may know by reading my “Looking forward to: Suffragette” post, I have been obsessed with this film for months. I’ve watched every movie clip, interview and behind-the-scenes glimpse.

Unfortunately, it appears the film company have actually released the entire movie throughout their promotion of Suffragette… I felt like I had already seen it by the time I watched it in the cinema.

If you too have watched the trailers that have been released, you have actually seen the beginning, the most scandalous and shocking scenes, as well as the final scene.

Not even joking.

suffragette film review with Carey Mulligan arrested Watching it in the cinema, I was clutching my handbag and holding my breath… Any second now, the mild-tempered Maud Watts (Carey Mulligan) is going to flip her sh*t. But she didn’t. She remains meek throughout the entire film. She just cries more and more as the story goes on.

So that was disappointing.

Nevertheless, this is an important movie that accurately (I’m assuming) documents the life of women in the early 1900s. It is beautifully lit and shot, the acting is spectacular, and costume design is great.

Suffragette film review with Meryl Streep And, no make-up! Like, usually there’s the ‘no make-up, make-up’ look. But it actually looks like the Hollywood actresses are bare-faced. Kudos.

Suffragette is important for more than its content, though. It’s the first film ever to be shot in the Houses of Parliament. And, with a female director, writer, and predominately female cast, it’s significant for Hollywood.

Some may say Suffragette is a film made by women for women. But I think the moral of the story is fairness and equality – a universal idea that should be applied to men and women in any situation.

It’s an important film, and something to be proud of, anyway.

Jodie’s rating: 6.5/10

Top 4: Favourite Festive Films

Four best christmas films You may have noticed I have done this post before.

You are correct.

Cats under the Christmas tree This time last year, I gifted you people with a splendid collection of my personal Christmas film favourites. However, I am here to refresh this post with one additional film.

Also, this time I’ve included quotes from my cat-loving, film-tolerating brother, who dresses his fur-babies up as Christmas-themed characters. (See right)

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A Christmas Carol
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Writer: Charles Dickens
Released: 2009
Featuring: Jim Carrey, Gary Oldman, Collin Firth and Bob Hoskins
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“Bah! Humbug!”

An enchanting tale directed by one of my favourites: Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump and Back to the Future) using motion capture – like Time Burton’s Alice in Wonderland.

Charles Dicken’s novel, A Christmas Carol (published in 1843), was brought to life with every bit of wonder, magic and fantastical detail intact.

Scrooge was perfectly played by the comical Jim Carrey. Carrey played multiple characters including all three ghosts: Christmas Past, Present and Future. Some scenes were pretty scary, and other scenes were really comedic; Carrey plays both genres easily.

I remember seeing this at the movies when it came out. It was extraordinary in 3D.

The only kind of person I know who doesn’t like this traditional classic, is a modern, Aussie-dwelling cat-lover…
Who has said that, to enjoy A Christmas Carol as much as I do:

You must be blind, deaf and have no will to live.

Jodie’s rating: 8.5/10

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The Polar Express
Director: Robert Zemeckis (Again! Genius.)
Writer: Chris Van Allsburg
Released: 2004
Featuring: Tom Hanks and Josh Hutcherson (before he was cool)
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“One thing about trains: it doesn’t matter where they’re going. What matters is deciding to get on.” – Conductor

Another motion capture film by Robert Zemeckis!

The Polar Express is about a child (Josh Hutcherson) who has serious doubts in the existence of Santa, and the magic of the holidays is slowly fading for him. One Christmas eve, the deafening sound of a train wakes him up. It’s the Polar Express, destined for the North Pole.

I think it is such a magical film. Along the way, the most bizarre things happen, with some beautiful shots. My favourites being the ‘hot chocolate’ scene where the children on the train are served hot cocoa in the most extravagant way!

My second favourite scene is when we follow the journey of a lost train ticket: out the window with the wind, settling on the snow before being kicked up by a pack of wolves, snatched by a swooping eagle… In 3D it was fantastic.

My favourite characters include the ‘hobo’ (Tom Hanks), and the two train drivers. But the conductor (also Tom Hanks) has some great lines. Hanks has the best voice for children’s stories.

In response to the question of, ‘what do you think about the Polar Express‘, cat-lover says:

It looks boring.

Jodie’s rating: 8.5/10

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Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Director: Ron Howard
Writer: Dr. Seuss
Featuring: Jim Carrey
Released: 2000
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“Max help me… I’m feeling!”

A comedy about the Grinch: a Christmas-hating recluse. The story explores the idea of commercialism and what Christmas is really about. Despite this heavy, typical ideology, it’s such a pick-me-up story.

It’s bright, absurd, funny and crazy! I love it.

[opens phone book] Alphabetically! Aadvarkian Abakeneezer Who, I… HATE YOU!
Aaron B. Benson Who, I hate you.
[looking into book]
Hate, hate, hate. Hate, hate, hate. Double hate…
LOATHE ENTIRELY!

Probably the best family Christmas comedy.

The person with fur-children reckons:

It’s funny.

Jodie’s rating: 8/10
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Arthur Christmas
Director: Sarah Smith
Writers: Peter Baynham and Sarah Smith
Starring: James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Bill Nighy, Jim Broadbent, Imelda Staunton, Ashley Jensen, Marc Wootton, Laura Linney, Eva Longoria, Ramona Marquez and Michael Palin
Released: November 2011
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Grandsanta: Do you know Arthur? There IS a way!
Arthur: It’s impossible!
Grandsanta: They used to say that it was impossible to teach women to read! Follow me!

Arthur Christmas was as magical as the Polar Express, and as imaginative as The Grinch. I laughed out loud – almost choking on chocolate-covered scorched almonds. A fabulous feel-good festive film for sure. With super weird and diverse characters.

Arthur Christmas explores and explains every question we have about Santa Claus: How does he deliver billions of presents in one night? Do the reindeer get tired? How does he fit down the chimney? How old is Santa? Is he on a benefit for the rest of the year, seeing as he only works one day a year?

Wait, does he even get paid..?

After watching this exciting adventure, you too will feel secure in the existence of Santa, as many of these questions are thoroughly answered with imaginative and quirky explanations.

I got Arthur Christmas free of charge, but it gifted me with a sleigh-worth of amusement and fun.

Person who dresses up cats in his spare time says:

Never heard of it.

Jodie’s rating: 8.5/10

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Have a jolly time.
Jodie.

Arthur Christmas

Arthur Christmas film poster review

Director: Sarah Smith
Writers: Peter Baynham and Sarah Smith
Starring: James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Bill Nighy, Jim Broadbent, Imelda Staunton, Ashley Jensen, Marc Wootton, Laura Linney, Eva Longoria, Ramona Marquez and Michael Palin
Released: November 2011
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Only just came across this animated festive feast. I had ignored it when seeing it in the bargain bin for sometime, but with a ‘buy two get one free’ deal on, I found myself struggling to pick the third and free DVD.

Stuck between Alvin and the Chipmunks and Barbie in A Christmas Carol, I reluctantly decided on Arthur Christmas as my free movie.

Expecting it to flow with the usual childish predictability typically associated with G rated festive films, my expectations were raised somewhat when I noticed the cast of some of my favourite UK stars.

Arthur Christmas slippers scene - film review James McAvoy (we named our pet goat ‘Mr. Tumnus’ after McAvoy’s performance as this character in Narnia),
Hugh Laurie (everyone knows him from House, but he will forever be the baddie from 101 Dalmatians to me),
Bill Nighy, Jim Broadbent, Imelda Staunton and Ashley Jensen.

So I stepped into my elf slippers, slipped into my Grinch onesie, and cradled my Santa mug (filled with hot cocoa, spiked with rum, with a disappointing amount of marshmallows).

I got my ticket. I was ready to be a passenger on this one-horse open sleigh ride of festive fun. I was ready to deck the halls with wonder and joy. I was ready to let it snow with good tidings, tinsel and turkey.

It was time to bring Santa back to town.

Arthur Christmas sleigh scene - film review Arthur Christmas was as magical as the Polar Express, and as imaginative as The Grinch. I laughed out loud – almost choking on chocolate-covered scorched almonds. A fabulous feel-good festive film for sure. With super weird and diverse characters.

Grandsanta: Do you know Arthur? There IS a way!
Arthur: It’s impossible!
Grandsanta: They used to say that it was impossible to teach women to read! Follow me!

Wait, does he even get paid..?

Arthur Christmas elf scene - film review After watching this exciting adventure, you too will feel secure in the existence of Santa, as many of these questions are thoroughly answered with imaginative and quirky explanations.

I got Arthur Christmas free of charge, but it gifted me with a sleigh-worth of amusement and fun.

Grandsanta: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Bambi, Dave, you with the white ear, you and you.

Justin Beiber as Santa Clause Oh! And you needn’t be put off by the presence of a Justin Bieber tune – despite the hype all over the DVD cover, I didn’t even notice the song.

Tell every Frosty, Noel, Saint Nick and Rudolf you meet. Unwrap the excitment and glee of the magical North Pole, tuck into the gravy-covered story, and present this snow-covered film to someone whom you can can tolerate for longer than the duration of December 25th.

With this film, it can be Christmas everyday.

Jodie’s rating: 8.5/10

A Few Good Men

A Few Good Men film poster Director: Rob Reiner (Misery)
Writer: Aaron Sorkin
Released: December 1992
Starring: Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, Demi Moore, Kevin Bacon, Kevin Pollak, Wolfgang Bodison, James Marshall, J. T. Walsh and Kiefer Sutherland
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“You can’t handle the truth!”

Well. Now I know where this famous quote actually comes from. I’ve heard it being referenced in Seinfeld (and probably countless other shows), and hadn’t the slightest clue it was from a good movie – not some Terminator, mindless action film that for some reason I always assumed it would be from.

A Few Good Men, a courtroom drama from 1992. I know, I know, I’m only 23 years behind.

Man, this movie is my favourite at the moment. I’m assuming I was the only person on the planet who hadn’t seen this film, but if you need a refresher of the plot without any of the court or Marine jargon…

Tom Cruise in A Few Good Men film Kaffee, (Tom Cruise), Galloway (Demi Moore) and Weinberg (Kevin Pollak) are defending two Marines – Dawson and Downey – who are accused of killing another Marine named Santiago, via a “Code Red”. Which is a “violent extrajudicial punishment”, according to Wikipedia. But it’s fundamentally where people of higher ranks turn their heads while Marines beat the crap out of each other for being late, or running slowly, or just being a dick in general.

Jack Nicholson in the final court scene of A Few Good Men Cruise’s character is over-confident, and he asks super awesome questions to people ranked way above him. But he has to be careful when he begins questioning Jack Nicholson’s character, because if he can’t get him to admit that he knew about the Code Red, then Tom Cruise’s character will be down the pan for accusing a Colonel… Basically.

Kevin Bacon in A Few Good Men film close-up Oh! And, Captain Jack Ross (Kevin Bacon) – not to be confused with popular Disney pirate, Captain Jack Sparrow – is the lawyer person on the other side, trying to get Dawson and Downey out of the Marines for supposedly murdering Santiago.

Anyway! Explaining any court-based story sounds boring on paper, but super cool in the movies.

I love how Demi Moore’s character isn’t a typical downtrodden, infatuated female. She’s as strong, competent and as funny as the men, and does well in her job without being the damsel in distress, or totally boring.

Oh! And how she asks Tom Cruise’s character on a date, because she’s a strong, independent woman who don’t need no man to ask her! *Snaps fingers in a sassy fashion*. But it doesn’t get lovey-dovey at all – such a breath of fresh air.

Galloway: But my feeling is that if this case is handled in the same fast-food, slick-ass ‘ Persian Bazaar manner with which you seem to handle everything else, something’s gonna get missed. And I wouldn’t be doing my job if I allowed Dawson and Downey to spend any more time in prison than absolutely necessary, because their attorney had pre-determined the path of least resistance.

Kaffee: Wow… I’m sexually aroused, Commander.

Demi Moore in A Few Good Men film Although, through all three viewings of this film within a week, I could not figure out Demi Moore’s hair… Is it short? Is it long and tied back? Is it actually Travolta’s hair from Grease..? It broke my brain a little bit. Looks pretty cool, nevertheless.

I’m typically not a fan of Tom Cruise, but he is comical, intense, and plays the part of the spoiled, cocky, lawyer remarkably well. He’s so sassy, with smart-mouthed come-backs.

Kaffee: Oh, hah, I’m sorry, I keep forgetting. You were sick the day they taught law at law school.

The only thing that dates this film is the repeated music that is quite obviously from the late 80s/early 90s. Apart from that, I think it’s held its own very well indeed. It’s just as entertaining now, as I’m sure it was back in ’92.

Keifer Sutherland in A Few Good Men film I almost forgot – Kiefer Sutherland is in it! He’s so intense. Everyone is! I definitely could not survive in the Marines… But, doesn’t Sutherland just look SWELL. *Swoon* I still prefer him in The Lost Boys though…

I love courtroom dramas. Just when you think Cruise’s character is out, he finds a loophole. It’s like Sherlock Holmes meets Judge Judy!

“It doesn’t matter what I believe. It only matters what I can prove!”

So much sass, so much awesomeness. Loved it, loved it, loved it. Scary, nail-biting, funny, inspiring. So amazing.

Kaffee: I know what you’re going to say – You don’t have to. We’ve had our differences. I said some things I didn’t mean; you said some things you didn’t mean, but you’re happy I stuck with the case. And if you’ve gained a certain respect for me over the last three weeks… well, of course, I’m happy about that. But we don’t have to make a whole big deal outta that – you like me? I won’t make you say it.

Galloway: I was just going to tell you to wear matching socks tomorrow.

Jodie’s rating: 8.5/10

The Town

The Town film poster Director: Ben Affleck
Writers: Based on the novel Prince of Thieves by Chuck Hogan. Screenplay: Ben Affleck, Peter Craig and Aaron Stockard
Released: 2010
Starring: Ben Affleck, Rebecca Hall, Jon Hamm, Jeremy Renner, Blake Lively, Titus Welliver, Pete Postlethwaite and Chris Cooper
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Not to be confused with The Village…

I think this movie has everything in it – a compelling love story, fantastic action scenes and Ben Affleck *swoon*. You also can’t go wrong with a rough Boston accent either!

A story about a town in Boston named Charlestown. Where, for some, bank robbery is a way of life and treated as an art handed down through the generations.

The Town film - robbery scene In the first robbery of the film, a masked Doug (Ben Affleck) is calming Claire (Rebecca Hall) who is franticly opening the safe, while the rest of the robbers intimidate the hostages.

A few days after the robbery, Doug ‘bumps into’ the woman to see how much she knows about the robbers and what she’s told the police. Which, I thought was a super cool part of the film. By getting close with one of the few witnesses Doug had the inside scoop of how far off the police were.

Anyway, she basically falls in love with Doug – who, little does she know, was responsible for one of the most traumatic experiences of her life.

The Town movie - nun costume scene I like movies where you’re on the side of the ‘badies’. Kind of like in Gone Girl where I found myself rooting for the mad killer. It was the same as in this film – I was backing the robbers the whole time. but what The Town did differently was that they went a step further and villainised the ‘goodies’ – the police.

It’s a thorough insight into a vastly different culture. The robbers are brutal, tough, but incredibly loyal toward each other.

Doug: I need you to do something with me. I can’t tell you why, you can’t ask me about it after and we’re gonna hurt people.”
Jem: Whose car we gonna take?

God, but bloody Affleck. Being the main character, director and one of the writers, OF COURSE he had to write himself a saucy love scene. Boys, eh!

Lovable, exciting – yet violent – characters, a believable love story with fantastic action sequences between uplifting scenes. A cool twist to the average cold, stale bank robbing film. I like how, although it is scary and violent and intense, it’s still personable and emotional.

Jodie’s rating: 8.5/10

Big Eyes

Director: Tim Burton
Writer: Larry Karaszewski and Scott Alexander
Released: December 2014
Featuring: Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz
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A Tim Burton film with Christoph Waltz and Amy Adams in it, and composed by Danny Elfman… I kind of knew how this was going to pan out before even pressing play.

It was going to be a bit creepy – because Burton. Quirky and fun – because Adams. Emotionally charged and dark – because Waltz. And choirs and strings – because Elfman.

Nevertheless! This was not a totally predictable Burton tale because it was based on real people and events.

Being set in an era I love, with mesmerising art and admirable, strong female characters, I enjoyed this film very much.

This is the story of Margaret (Adams) who is the artist responsible for the memorable paintings of the children with big eyes during the sixties and seventies.

She married a salesman Walter Keane (Waltz) after walking out on her previous husband. (Which was a big thing for women of that time.) Keane told her that people don’t buy ‘lady art’, so it would be in both of their best financial interests if Margaret’s art was passed off as his.

Over 10 years, that lie snowballed into something much larger, where Margaret was lying to her daughter, lying to herself and losing her identity in a dominated relationship.

Big Eyes follows Margaret’s struggle to pick herself up and stand up to her husband. She had his name, therefore he had her work and consequently, her identity. It wasn’t going to be an easy fight.

Tim Burton has won me back as a Burton fan, because it was different enough, while still keeping the Burton-esk feel. Not everyone had heavy eyeliner, striped fingerless gloves, and Helena Bonham Carter and Johnny Depp were not cast!

Yet the pastel colours, crazy eyes and gorgeous costumes still brought back fond memories of Edward Scissorhands and Dark Shadows.

There were some great scenes, like when everyone’s eyes were like dinner plates in the supermarket. I was mesmerised by how believable Amy Adams is! She is an incredible actress for sure. I could completely understand how blinded she was in her marriage, just by her nervous gestures and mannerisms.

Christoph Waltz is so talented. He is portrayed as the conman who is vindictive and dark, yet so trustworthy and confident – like a used-car salesman. I think he is the best villainous actor in Hollywood.

I love films where the underdog gets justice and revenge…

A true story portrayed like that of a fairytale. We get in the head of a suppressed artist and woman, who expresses her feelings through the sad eyes of the children she paints. Wonderful film, with great 60s and 70s music and décor. Beautiful!

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

Goldfish (short film)

Goldfish short film review Director: Dale Driver
Writer: Dale Driver
Starring: Lindsay Bennett, Stephen Fawkes, Aimee Branson
—

The first thing I noticed about this nine minute film was the sound. It’s incredible how simple effects, such as the overlapping of sound between scenes can make such a huge impact.

The score during the credits fits the mood perfectly. The sound and original score is by Tony Agar.

Goldfish short film review This is a story about a child, Rosie (Aimee Branson), who in basic terms has Alzheimer’s disease. The mother, Anna (Lindsay Bennett), has a choice: To enjoy the final 18 months with her daughter, or have a procedure that allows Rosie to survive, but with a 99 percent chance of her having no existing memories remain.

‘Delete her life’ – she dies either way.

The second thing I noticed was how believable the actors were. I especially thought the doctor, Stephen Fawkes, was convincing.

A short, simple film that is layered and told in a powerful way.

I thoroughly enjoyed Goldfish – well done to the small cast and crew involved! I think the hardest part is to stay within one’s means when making films. But with three characters and almost as many scenes, they managed to send a strong message without going too broad.

Goldfish short film review But I think this is a heart-warming, yet tragic story. The harsh lighting, score and believable acting certainly carries the emotions across.

I’m fascinated by memory – which is why Inception and Inside Out are two of my favourite films. Goldfish is definitely worth checking out!

blueridgefilms.co.uk
goldfishfilm.co.uk

Jodie

Inside Out

WELCOME TO MY 300th POST!

Director: Pete Docter
Writer: Pete Docter and Ronnie del Carmen
Released: June 2015
Starring: Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Bill Hader, Lewis Black, Mindy Kaling, Richard Kind, Kaitlyn Dias, Diane Lane, Kyle MacLachlan
—

What a fantastic premise!

I am fascinated by psychology and why people behave the way they do, and this film has simplified our complex behaviours into an entertaining and interesting animation.

It’s about a young girl… Well, more like the emotions that make up a young girl. We see inside her head and see who controls her moods, decisions and feelings:

Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Anger and Fear.

Each are relatable and lovable, each with pros and cons, strengths and weaknesses. No mood is less important than the other, or more favourable than the other. Which is a moral within itself.

My favourite character was Sadness. Because she seems so helpless and incorrigible, but she’s not self-loathing or deceitful.

Joy was my least favourite… She is positively irritating.

However! I was surprised to notice there are more female characters than male characters.

I love how much we find out about this world – the subconscious, personal values, suppressed memories, even her imaginary friend. But my favourite part is the explanation of dreams…

“Action!”

By turning the brain from a wibbly-wobbly system, a complex map – if you will – of intertwined motorways, power lines, unpredictable traffic jams and road rage. This movie physicalises many components of what makes you, you!

All that is natured and nurtured, all that is influential and permanent. This movie has assigned a character to represent it.

Thoroughly enjoyed it. I think perhaps, on a deeper level beyond the entertainment value, perhaps this film could shine a new light on why people are the way they are. Hopefully increasing understanding and acceptance among us… That’s wishful thinking…

But you should see it.

My only hope is that an R16 version comes out where it’s not an animation, but a real person. Who is a psychopathic murderer like Hannibal… IMAGINE THAT. Watching what Hannibal Lecter is THINKING…

Perhaps a sequel?

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

Why not a 10/10? Because it sagged a little at times, and at the end, you realise you spent $18.50 on a children’s movie…

Courting Chaos

Courting Chaos short film. Punk scene Director: Alan Clay
Writer: Alan Clay
Released: 2013
—

A coming of age romantic comedy in which a Beverly Hills girl falls for a Venice Beach street clown named Chaos and she must overcome her inhibitions and become a clown herself for the relationship to survive.

Once a clown, now a director, Alan Clay is a successful homegrown indie filmmaker who has made this film Courting Chaos.

The film is about a girl, Ginger (Rachelle DiMaria), who falls in love with a street clown, Chaos (Alastair Bayardo). But in order for the relationship to work, she has to change.

Courting Chaos short film review Having not seen the whole shebang, I’m not sure if the moral of the story is ‘change who you are to make someone like you’, or if it’s ‘be who you really want to be – even if it’s not what most deem to be acceptable’.

I’m assuming it’s the latter.

Judging by the sneak preview I have seen, it is certainly comedic. With the acting well above par, and the pacing of the jokes very well performed, I am looking forward to seeing the whole thing.

Courting Chaos seems to be an upbeat, colourful film. The most impressive thing about it, is that the film was made within 22 days!

Courting Chaos short film review Good on the cast and crew!

To sum it up, I’d say it is a quirky and honest film that anyone could enjoy.

Check out their website, watch the film here and like them on Facebook!

A pretty decent trailer below. All that’s missing is a voiceover I reckon!

Jodie

My Lonely Me

My Lonely Me short film poster review

Written and directed by Joe Scott, who also wrote Tamla Rose.
Released: 2015
Production company: Ace Film
—

A slightly abstract musical about a young woman uncovering mysteries of her childhood.

Reiga (Sabrina Dickens) is a music student suffering from flashbacks and hallucinations, particularly of a little girl. As the movie goes on, it gets darker and even rather creepy.

The little girl is Reiga’s younger self, who helps her uncover family secrets and come to terms with the tragedies of her past that she has mentally blocked out.

A fantastically lit, well-made feature-length film. I thought Sabrina Dickens was a believable actress whom I enjoyed watching.

Although I’m not a fan of musicals – usually because they get mellow-dramatic rather quickly – I found that the songs not only fitted in very well with the tone of the movie, but actually carried the story further. Particularly because the protagonist was experiencing surreal delusions, so the realism wasn’t broken when the actress began singing.

Despite the occasional shot hinting at the film’s low budget, I think it was a creative and an incredibly brave storyline that was pulled off well.

I think the only way this film could have been improved, would be to play around with the lighting a little, or even using simple in-camera tricks to highlight the creepiness and uneasiness of the situations.

Despite that, I think it is a great film with great songs. But I am particularly impressed with the continuity and set lighting. Even though there wasn’t a huge amount of creativity within the set design, the crew certainly stuck to what they know and do best. Limitations are an important thing to recognise on a low budget, and these guys used it to their advantage.

Check out their Facebook page and website: www.mylonelyme.me.uk

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

Whiplash

Whiplash film poster Director: Damien Chazelle
Writer: Damien Chazelle
Released: October 2014
Featuring: Miles Teller, J.K. Simmons and Paul Reiser—

JK Simmons in Whiplash film review I’m sure you’ve heard of Whiplash, and referred to it as ‘that drumming film with Juno‘s dad in it.’

Or, perhaps you first heard of it when J.K. Simmons won best supporting actor at the Oscars for his role in Whiplash. (Which, OH MY GOD did he deserve. He was… Every teacher I’ve ever feared.)

Although, I reckon everyone should have known Whiplash as ‘that amazing film I went to see yesterday for the second time’. Yet, at least in Auckland’s case, it was barely shown – if at all – in the major cinemas.

“Not my tempo.” – Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons)

This film has the darkness of Black Swan, the mind-twisted characters of Nightcrawler, and the photography of… What’s a fantastically-lit and composed movie… The King’s Speech? Anyway. Very well shot indeed.

Miles Teller in Whiplash movie It was like a way more intense and less-uplifting version of Peaceful Warrior. (A movie about a gymnast mentally and physically pushed to the limit.)

The basic plot is about Andrew Neiman (Miles Teller), a first-year college/university jazz drummer at America’s best music school. J.K. Simmons is his teacher who has a few screws loose. Whiplash is the internal battle of a boy’s appetite for fame and success, while being drained by his teacher who plays mind games and throws chairs at him and what not.

You don’t have to be a drummer, a musician, or even like music to thoroughly enjoy this movie. However, I have heard from some of my drummer friends that if you do play drums, you will notice some inaccuracies. (Probably like how horseriders feel when watching horse movies.)

Miles Teller and JK Simmons in Whiplash film I think the only thing holding this move back was its simplicity… Or maybe that aided it… I’m not too sure, but I wonder if Whiplash could have become as disturbing as Black Swan with some more scenes expressing Neiman’s inner emotions..?

“WERE YOU RUSHING, OR WERE YOU DRAGGING!?” – Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons)

You must watch this scene!:

Despite that, I loved it… Loved it, loved it, loved it. I got so stuck into the story, completely immersed in Andrew Neiman’s struggle, obsession and frustration.

I’d be so happy to see more of this sort of film in the cinema. If you’ve got an appetite for dark and emotionally exhausting films, this is for you.

Jodie’s rating: 9/10

Godzilla (2014)

Godzilla 2014 film poster Director: Gareth Edwards
Writers: Story: David Callaham Screenplay: Max Borenstein
Released: May 2014
Starring: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ken Watanabe, Elizabeth Olsen, Juliette Binoche, Sally Hawkins, David Strathairn, Bryan Cranston
—

I thoroughly enjoyed Godzilla. I thought it would be just another King Kong movie: looooooong, with a damsel in distress and a brutal ending highlighting the selfishness of mankind.

Godzilla 2014 film - Breaking Bad actor However, this was more like a monster sci-fi movie. Giving a nod to Jurassic Park, Space Odyssey (music), War of the Worlds, Captain America… You name it.

A movie that plays on our fears of nuclear and natural disasters… And, giant lizards. It’s fantastic. My favourite part is when they talk about why the nuclear testing occurred in the 1950s. Very. Scandalous.

The director definitely teases us. Every time we think we’re about to see Godzilla, he cuts away. Just as a massive fight is about to happen, he cuts away. Right until the bitter end! Certainly keeps you interested though.

The sound design is flawless. Absolutely incredible. Don’t waste it by watching it on a laptop or something. Invest in some decent speakers or headphones, because you don’t want to miss the sound effects of some of these monsters!

Godzilla film 2014 - Olsen sister Yes, you may have noticed I’m using a plural: monsters. IT’S SO AWESOME!

I think the makers may have spent all their money on making the monsters look realistic, and on the spine chilling sound, because the smoke and landscapes in some scenes look quite unrealistic. But I’m not complaining! Something had to give.

Better than Kong (2005). This is scary, exciting, and untypical of the genre! Must see!

Godzilla 2 is, of course, on its way.

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

The ‘Runaway’ Film Genre

I have referenced this unofficial genre in many film reviews of late, so I thought I should dedicate a post to it. Especially since it doesn’t have a Wikipedia page.

Because I made it up.

I did a check list for the genre in Wild. So I’ll copy and past it here, and elaborate.

THE RUNAWAY GENRE GROUND RULES:

One or two characters who have suffered trauma
Inner-conflict (usually expressed via flashbacks)
At least one emotional breakdown
Typically involves a marriage break-up or violence
Expression of every emotion
Writing down of feelings/diary-keeping
Genre that is mostly likely to conclude with tragedy (according to unofficial polling)
And of course… The act of running away

CLASSIC EXAMPLES OF A RUNAWAY FILM:

Borderline exceptions to the genre:

Now, I love this genre. Sure, I’ve made up the title and the rules, but they are typically wondrous, fantastical, deep, meaningful, adventurous insights into a character.

I love psychology, and these movies tend to play on why we make the decisions we do, and why we interact in the way we do.

Keep an eye out for films of this genre. They’re quite easy to pick.

Jodie.

Hector and the Search for Happiness

Director: Peter Chelsom
Writer: Peter Chelsom,Tinker Lindsay and Maria von Heland. Based on the novel of the same name by François Lelord
Released: September 2014
Starring: Simon Pegg, Rosamund Pike and Toni Collette
—

I thought this was going to be an English version of Walter Mitty… I think that was the aim anyway, but it certainly wasn’t the final product.

Unfortunately, this potentially deep and meaningful storyline was not achieved due to the general lack of believability, and the distaste toward the main character, Hector (Simon Pegg).

Basically, Hector is a psychiatrist and he finds himself unfulfilled. So he goes on a journey around the world, visiting countries including China and Africa, to find out what makes people happy.

But right off the bat, the audience stops rooting for the protagonist when he cheats on his wife in China, then meets up with an old flame in America. Suddenly, we no longer think well of Hector and the story goes down hill from there.

So the suspension of disbelief has plummeted, and for the rest of the film I’m hoping his wife Clara (Rosamund Pike) tells him he’s a disgusting excuse for a man and dumps him.

To save you the suspense, here are some of the things he learns makes people happy. Like most other films in the ‘runaway’ genre, he writes down his experiences.

Making comparisons can spoil your happiness.
A lot of people think happiness is being rich or important.
Many people see happiness only in their future.
Happiness could be the freedom to love more than one woman at the same time. (Which I’m sure will result in the unhappiness of people around him!)
Nostalgia is not what it used to be.

Anyway. I was disappointed because I love Walter Mitty so much and I thought this would be just as inspiring. Although, the fact it wasn’t shown in the major theatres here in New Zealand should have been a clue.

A great excuse to travel the world for some lucky cast and crew.

Jodie’s rating: 4/10
1) Because I still enjoy movies about travel, 2) it has Simon Pegg in it, 3) it has Rosamund Pike in it, and 4) the trailer is pretty awesome.

What We Did on our Holiday

What We Did on our Holiday film poster Directors: Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin
Writers: Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin
Released: September 2014
Starring: David Tennant, Rosamund Pike and Billy Connolly
—

Like my horse, it’s funny at the beginning, saggy in the middle and a bit crappy at the end.

This is a film – featuring the spectacular David Tennant (Dr. Who!!) and Rosamund Pike – about a family of five going on holiday to Scotland for the grandfather’s 75th birthday party.

Long story short, the parents are having a divorce but only the children know, and they are sworn to secrecy while visiting their sickly grandfather so as to keep his final years pleasant.

What We Did on our Holiday film with David Tennant and Rosamund Pike Pike plays the mum, Abi, Tennant as the dad, Doug, and Billy Connolly as the granddad, Gordie.

Abi and Doug have three children, the easiest way to describe them is as the intelligent and serious one, the creative one and the youngest and funniest one. Sort of like in that Lemoney Snicket movie A Series of Unfortunate Events.

I found the first third of the movie hilarious – such a typical English comedy. It reminded me of About a Boy. I was laughing out loud watching it on the plane and everything. (Although, that was after two bourbon and cokes…)

After that, it got quite slow. The drama began to set in, but there wasn’t enough at stake, perhaps, for the audience to feel to effected?

What We Did on our Holiday film Nevertheless, the script was amazing. Some fantastic one-liners! For example, the youngest child has a brick and a rock as friends:

Doug: Have you seen anybody about this?
Abi: Like a geologist?

And a whooooooole other bunch of funny lines, which I can’t find on the internet for you because it’s a newish film.

I think this movie has great intentions, and it was almost awesome from beginning to end, with philosophical and comedic moments.

Jodie’s rating: 6/10

In the Mood for Love

In the Mood for Love film poster Directed: Wong Kar-Wai
Written: Wong Kar-Wai
Released: September 2000
Starring: Maggie Cheung and Tony Leung
—

Because this movie isn’t in English, I’m just going to do a fat dissection of the visuals… Enjoy!

A story about two married couples who move into an apartment next door from one another. One couple is Chow Mo-wan, a journalist, and his wife. The other is Su Li-zhen, a secretary, and her husband.

Chow and Su both have a spouse who works over-time often, leaving them alone in their rooms most nights. However, their absence slowly brings Chow and Su together, and they speculate over unfaithfulness in their respective spouses.

In the Mood for Love Japanese film scene Based in Hong-Kong during the 1960s, their closeness is frowned upon so, even though only friends, Su and Chow begin a more secretive relationship.

I love how the director portrays the story visually. The spouses of Chow and Su are never seen, their faces are forever unrecognisable, with only their voices heard. This reinforces their lack of identity within their respective marriages, and their lack of presence.

I’m not familiar with Asian film, but it is a fantastically shot movie, although veeeery slow in pace.

The use of slow-motion is used often, emphasising Chan and Su waiting for their spouses to come home every night. A great scene is when the two begin to work out that both of their spouses are having an affair with each other. The camera movements get faster and closer while sitting in a cafe, and then Chan and Su leave together in slow motion, emphasising their shared heartbreak and unity.

The slow motion scenes occur regularly to mark chapters, married with the same piece of suspicious/melancholy music. Although repetitive, it works well to portray the characters growing and moving closer.

In the Mood for Love Japanese film scene Food is a very important symbol in the film. Chan’s and Su’s first meal together parallels them coming to terms with their spouses infidelity. Where they used to get take-out from the same place and eat alone, this first meal is an important milestone.

Chan orders for Su, picking out a dish his wife likes, and Su picks out a dish for Chan that her husband would usually eat. They frequently ‘play’ each other’s spouses, almost as though to keep their growing friendship a make-believe, so as not to take responsibility.

Food is something to share and something that expresses themselves. Where Chan enjoys noodles and sesame soup, his cheating wife prefers steak with hot mustard, for example.

This is a story about coincidence, and people who have the courage to pursue chance encounters and near-missed opportunities. Chan and Su are both frequently referred to as being too polite. Their almost cowardliness natures lead to them being perpetually unhappy in their already broken marriages, too scared to make the first move.

A film that perfectly illustrates the tug-of-war between, ‘what’s meant to be, will be’ and ‘make it what you want’. A right to be happy and honest, versus secrets and unhappiness.

That turned out to be a bit longer than expected! It’s worth a watch, the full movie can be found on Youtube at the moment.

In the same way that English and American films are completely different in tone and humour, even if in the same genre, this Chinese film is different again. I’m having difficulty rating it as I’m not familiar with the culture, humour or film production, with nothing for comparison. 6/10 perhaps?

Into the Wild

Into the Wild film poster Director: Sean Penn
Writer: Sean Penn based on Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
Starring: Emile Hirsch, Marcia Gay Harden, William Hurt, Jena Malone, Catherine Keener, Brian Dierker, Vince Vaughn, Zach Galifianakis, Kristen Stewart, Hal Holbrook
Released: September 2007
—

WARNING: THIS FILM MAY GIVE A GIANT REALITY CHECK TO MANY ASPIRING TRAVELLERS. YOU MAY END UP CANCELLING YOUR ADVENTURE PLANS AND BECOME CONTENT WITH A SECURE, SAFE 9-5 JOB.

This took me soooo long to sit down, and watch successfully from beginning to end. I attempted watching it twice, about two years ago. But I found it slow-paced and uneventful.

Oh boy was I wrong.

Based on a true story, Into the Wild is about a privileged young man, Christopher McCandless (Emile Hirsch), who graduates from university. He has the world in his hands, from the outside he has a top-class education, and wealthy, supportive parents. Into the Wild film - hitchhiking scene

But his deepest desire is to distance himself from the material world of money and ‘things’. So he sets off on a journey in search of adventures in the Alaskan wilderness.

I’m gonna be all the way out there, all the way f*cking out there. Just on my own. You know, no f*cking watch, no map, no axe, no nothing. No nothing. Just be out there. Just be out there in it. You know, big mountains, rivers, sky, game. Just be out there in it, you know? In the wild.

A few months ago I took the time to watch it properly. I watched it just before my graduation from university, which was probably why I loved it so much; the story seemed to parallel my life at that point.

I think everyone’s had that desire to break away from the life they know and rough it out in East Jesus nowhere. And, just like every other ‘runaway’ film, Into the Wild lives out your secret fantasy.

Society, man! You know, society! Cause, you know what I don’t understand? I don’t understand why people, why every f*cking person is so bad to each other so f*cking often.

Into the Wild film - bird scene It’s certainly a sad story, and it bursts your idealistic bubble of living in the wilderness. As it turns out, being in the wild is a brutal place to be. Especially all alone.

But, in Christopher’s eyes, he did exactly what he wanted to do. He created his own challenges and hurdles, his own dreams and goals. I feel he was in complete control of his life for once. And despite the tragedies along the way, at least you can say he truly led a free life.

Check out Christopher’s real-life story, there’s a few interesting facts you’ll find out about him… But it’s probably best to read the true story after watching the film. Otherwise you’ll kill the magic in the film.

Into the Wild film scene A classic ‘runaway‘ film that nods to Thelma and Louise, with The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, and Wild following in its epic, glorious and inspiring footsteps.

With this gorgeous song leaving you at the end of the film, I found myself to feel extremely humbled. Christopher’s story was an incredible one to say the least, but as I said, it will smash your travelling dreams with one heavy swing of reality.

This is a ‘quieter’ film to Wild, which is why the rating is a smidgen lower. I think the lack of dialogue and music works for this film, but I ultimately prefer Wild‘s soundtrack and use of dialogue more.

Jodie’s rating: 7.5/10
Please watch the trailer – the score and the editing just punches you in the face with awesomeness.

Wild

Wild film poster Director: Jean-Marc Vallee
Writer: Nick Hornby (screenplay), Cheryl Strayed (novel)
Released: December 2014 (USA), January 2015 (NZ)
Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Thomas Sadoski, Michiel Huisman and Gaby Hoffman
—

Based on a true story, Cheryl Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) battles the ghosts of her past: heroin addiction, divorce, the death of her mother and the abandonment of her father. As a way to start fresh, she goes on a 1000-mile journey along the Pacific Crest Trail.

Reese Witherspoon in counselling scene in Wild film To be frank, the flashbacks made me feel really uncomfortable. But… I guess the world of heroin addicts shouldn’t exactly be attractive.

A classic ‘runaway movie‘, although I’m not entirely sure if this is actually a sub-genre. Nevertheless, Wild fits into this category along with Into the Wild, Thelma and Louise.

Find out more about the runaway genre here!

Wild film with Reese Witherspoon In fact, if you enjoyed Into the Wild (also a biographic), then you’re likely to enjoy Wild. It’s basically the same story but from the perspective of a woman, with different life problems.

I honestly had little doubt in Reese Witherspoon. I knew she would play this complicated character well. I’ve really enjoyed her more serious roles ever since Walk the Line.

When I walked out of the cinema, I needed time to process. I really felt moved by this film, not only because I love the ‘runaway genre’, but because the film makers portrayed Strayed’s emotions so convincingly that I started to take her problems on board.

Wild Reese Witherspoon film I’d like to point out that the screenplay was written by Nick Hornby, who wrote About A Boy. Whatta guy!

Wow, almost forgot to mention the soundtrack! The songs include a perfectly fitting Portishead song (Glory Box) that plays during flash-backs to Strayed’s lowest of times as an addict.

Other amazing artists on the soundtrack include Simon & Garfunkel, an R.E.M cover by First Aid Kit, Wings, Leonard Cohen, Bruce Springsteen… It goes on.

I think the best movies make you laugh, cry and leave you with something to ponder. Wild certainly does. Some parts are hard to watch (not quite on par with the dreaded Requiem for a Dream though), but for the most part, I enjoyed it.

Life, eh!

Jodie’s rating: 9/10

Gone Girl

Gone Girl film poster

Director: David Fincher
Writer: Gillian Flynn (based on her novel of the same name)
Released: October 2014
Starring: Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, Neil Patrick Harris, Tyler Perry and Carrie Coon
—

Let me just begin by saying, oh my Lord, Gillian Flynn wrote the screenplay to her own novel! That never happens!

When writing my last post, What are you like, Rosamund Pike? (about actors whose public perception changes based on the roles they choose), I wondered how I was going to write this review…

I was so shocked by Rosamund Pike’s performance – she was fantastic of course – but I wasn’t prepared for her to pick this role.

Let’s be clear, this isn’t the mystery/detective/Midsomer Murders deal I was expecting. This is a story of a manic, psychopathic panther disguised as a house cat.

Pike’s character, Amy, is the wife to Nick (Ben Affleck), when she goes missing. They were a seemingly perfect couple who live in the suburbs, but how happy were they really before this tragedy happened?

Their house is a gory crime scene on the day of her disappearance, so it’s assumed that a brutal murder has taken place and her body has been hidden, but who did it?

Gone Girl film - Ben Affleck's speech It gets dark very quickly by this point as they outline the characters’ backstories, and how it came to this.

Nick is thrust into the spotlight of the media, who struggles to be the likeable and concerned husband that the public expect. He is quickly labeled as number one suspect, and Nick gets lawyered-up!

It is certainly a tragic and unnerving film, with some scenes being particularly distressing so this thriller is not a sleepy Sunday afternoon kind of film.

Nevertheless, this is a psychological thriller, which is always one step ahead of you; it has you flip-flopping between characters as to who to root for.

Amy is portrayed as a trustworthy and humble suburban woman on the outside, but has a twisted mind. I was a bit terrified of her as we realise the full potential of her off-kilted psyche. But I still kind of liked her – she has a bit of Thelma & Louise in her storyline.

Nick is a good-looking, albeit, quietly egotistical, depressed and selfish man, so he’s not all that great either. But that doesn’t necessarily make him guilty… Does it?

As Pike said in an interview about this “social satire” film, we are all editing ourselves – on Facebook and in public – so who are we all really? What are we capable of?

Rosamund Pike in Gone Girl film

Gone Girl does challenge you to acknowledge the major social issues and kinks in human nature within society. As we’re rubbing shoulders with the best and the worst of humanity.

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

Category Archives: All Film Reviews

Rebirth (web series)

Deadpool

Crash Testing (short film)

He’s Got Character (Short film)

Brooklyn

The Time Traveler’s Wife

Suffragette

Top 4: Favourite Festive Films

Arthur Christmas

I got my ticket. I was ready to be a passenger on this one-horse open sleigh ride of festive fun. I was ready to deck the halls with wonder and joy. I was ready to let it snow with good tidings, tinsel and turkey.

It was time to bring Santa back to town.

A Few Good Men

The Town

Big Eyes

Goldfish (short film)

Inside Out

Courting Chaos

My Lonely Me

Whiplash

Godzilla (2014)

The ‘Runaway’ Film Genre

Hector and the Search for Happiness

What We Did on our Holiday

In the Mood for Love

Into the Wild

Wild

Gone Girl