review – Page 3 – NZ Film Freak

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
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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

All In One Creativity Kit (short film)

All In One Creativity Kit (short film) Concept, Script, Animation and Design: Prateek A Sethi
Voice Over: John Varker
Sound Design: Rahull Raut
Special Thanks: Long, Ju, Prach, Dev and Shrey.
—

How bizarre!

This is a spoof of any infomercial you can think of. It is so well done too – very creative! It perfectly encapsulates the manic bullsh*t that we are exposed to every day – particularly on daytime television.

How they got the idea for this short film, I don’t know! But it’s certainly well done.

It seems like it’s essentially a commercial within itself; advertising a graphic design/filmmaking company. A bit hypocritical, but certainly a fun project nonetheless.

Jodie.

Top 5: Films Based in the Sixties

Films based in the 1960s I love the 1960s… I feel like my huge amount of posts regarding this era may have given that away.

So! Here are my top five favourite films set in the 1960s. (Presented in no particular order).

American Graffiti (set in 1962)
Look, creep. You want a knuckle sandwich?
Uh, no thanks. I’m waiting for a double Chucky Chuck.

This is a bitchin’ 60s film through the eyes of American teenagers with an ear for rock ‘n’ roll! I mean… This has to be my favourite 60s film. It’s bright like a jukebox with great music highlighted by Wolfman Jack. The cars, the dresses, the language, the people..! I just… Can’t even. When I watch this film, I feel like I’ve got a backstage pass to my favourite band’s show. I get all giddy and nostalgic

Made in Dagenham (set in 1968)
Cope? How will we cope? We’re women. Now, don’t ask such stupid questions.

Documenting the fight for equal pay for men and women in the UK – obviously a major change for this era – focussing on the working class. I like how the filmmakers illustrated the two generations: the older characters who lived through or fought in the war with their 40s, duller dresses. And the younger generation wearing bright sixties dresses and big hair. This divide is illustrated in one short scene: the power cut at the disco (for those of you who have seen it).

The Boat That ROCKED poster The Boat that Rocked (set in 1966)
Remember folks, it ain’t simple bein’ cool, but it’s cool bein’ simple.

From the point of view from the rock stars of the era: pirate radio DJs. It’s about the fight between pirate radio entertainers (and their fans) versus the English government who shut them down. Fantastic soundtrack of course. With every 60s music genre represented by a DJ on board the boat. Certainly a dreamy ideal of what the era was, but the film crushes your dreams at the end.

The Help (set in 1963)
Eighteen people were killed in Jackson that night. Ten white and eight black. I don’t think God has colour in mind when he sets a tornado loose.

The dark side of the sixties in the South. Every time I say “I want to live in the sixties”, the typical response is: “Yeah, but what about the racism?” Now I’m not saying the sixties are perfect, and racism in this time was devastating and unimaginable. The Help certainly puts this side of the sixties into perspective. Every era has its dark side (even the twenty-teens). A fantastic film nonetheless, with an uplifting and inspirational ending.

Good Morning, Vietnam (set in 1965)
Speaking of things controversial, is it true that there is a marijuana problem here in Vietnam?
No, it’s not a problem, everybody has it.

Why have I not written about one of my favourites? Well. I suppose It’s because it’s so dialogue-heavy that it’s more of a radio show – Robin Williams really is the star and his ad-libbed script just takes the cake. A fantastic angle of the devastating Vietnam war, from the point of view of the radio hosts. It’s bound to put a smile on your dial.

Films that didn’t quite make the cut:

Catch Me if You Can (set in 1963)
Two little mice fell in a bucket of cream. The first mouse quickly gave up and drowned. The second mouse, wouldn’t quit. He struggled so hard that eventually he churned that cream into butter and crawled out.

Sadly, I haven’t reviewed this one yet. But I think it’s so inspiring. A young man (Leonardo Dicaprio) ran away from home and used his charm to fake being a pilot, doctor and lawyer. After being caught years later, he was hired by the FBI to help them catch cheque forgers. I love this true story because it shows how much freedom they had. (Unlike today where everyone is watched and documented). It didn’t make the top five because my love for Good Morning, Vietnam got the best of me.

Forrest Gump (set in 1960s)
Why are you so good to me?
You’re my girl!

Of course, not all of this movie is set in the 60s, but there is a large chunk of the hippie movement portrayed. A theme also shared in Made in Dagenham, is that it was just a time of complete change and challenging authorities. This didn’t get to the top 5 because, let’s be honest, haven’t we heard enough about this epic?

Walk the Line (set in 50s – 60s)
Hi, I’m Johnny Cash

I was going to put this film in the mix too, but I relealised all the best scenes were set in the fifties, and only the ending is in the sixties. But I would like to acknowedge it as being friggin’ awesome, with fantastic actors portraying the kings (and queen) of rock ‘n’ roll.

Take five! Take that!
Jodie.

Chandelier – Sia

Chandelier song video of Sia's While we are on the topic of Sia, I love her earlier song: Chandelier.

It’s just as emotionally-charged and high energy as Elastic Heart. In fact, I see Chandelier as the prequel to Elastic Heart, because the videos are both directed by Sia and Daniel Askill and features the same dancer in the music video, Maddie Ziegler. You can definitely tell the dancing was choreographed by the same person too, Ryan Heffington, as some of the moves are the same, and so is Ziegler’s costume.

It’s still fantastic though. The video was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Music Video, and became the seventh most watched YouTube video of 2014.

The lyrics are great. It reminds me of Tove Lo’s song High, because it’s about the plights of a party girl. (Which, I personally find a frightening subject matter after seeing the music video to High.)

I’m gonna swing from the chandelier, from the chandelier
I’m gonna live like tomorrow doesn’t exist
Like it doesn’t exist
I’m gonna fly like a bird through the night, feel my tears as they dry…

But I’m holding on for dear life, won’t look down won’t open my eyes
Keep my glass full until morning light, ‘cos I’m just holding on for tonight
Help me, I’m holding on for dear life, won’t look down won’t open my eyes
Keep my glass full until morning light, ‘cos I’m just holding on for tonight…

I’ve found a lot of covers – including one by Sara Bareilles. But they’re either too slow, which I don’t think gives the song justice, or (in the case of some of the singing contestants on tv) are just plain out of tune.

Sia’s original performance is the best, and I don’t think it will be beaten. No one can match her vocals – especially live!

Jodie

Elastic Heart – Sia

Elastic Heart music video Sia I am so slow to the party.

This song was on The Hunger Games: Catching Fire soundtrack, and boy is it powerful.

I think the song can speak for itself, but it’s a chilling story of the singer’s two emotional versions of herself. Each side wrestles to become dominant.

I imagine it’s the side that’s strong, flexible, and can cope with trauma, versus the side that’s negative and fragile:

I’ve got thick skin and an elastic heart
But your blade it might be too sharp
I’m like a rubberband until you pull too hard
I may snap and I move fast
But you won’t see me fall apart
‘Cos I’ve got an elastic heart

Gorgeous voice.

The music video is equally as powerful – but has been rather controversial. Shia in Elastic Heart Sia music video

This concept of dominance is portrayed by 28-year-old actor Shia LaBeouf and 12-year-old Maddie Ziegler through interpretive dance. It is directed by Sia and Daniel Askill, and choreographed by Ryan Heffington.

Wearing nude-coloured clothing, they dance inside a giant cage, that I assume represents Sia’s head. Ziegler being the protective, flexible side, LaBeouf portraying the aggressive and restricted side.

They both try to fight to be the one that gets outside the cage and be expressed. But at the same time they do want to work as one and get out together. Unfortunately, opposite emotions can’t be expressed at the same time.

Shia LeBeouf in Sia music video (Toward the end of the video, Ziegler softly hits LaBeouf on his forehead. Each time she does so he changes his expression to show the emotions he represents: scared (he’s holding his breath – claustrophobia?), sarcastic, angry and depressed.

Some (in the twittersphere) are saying the video is referring to paedophilia, or could offend victims because a young girl is dancing with an older man.

It is a video that looks primal and raw, but I don’t really think it’s sexual at all.

Elastic Heart music video with Shia LeBeauf Personally, I didn’t realise how young the girl was until I read about it. However, it hasn’t changed my view on the video. I find it creative and expressive. But I suppose you can read into anything if you have an angle in mind.

I think the video shows an incredible amount of talent and power to match an energetic song.

Sia has since tweeted an apology to those who were offended.

All I can say is Maddie and Shia are two of the only actors I felt could play these two warring ‘Sia’ self states. I [apologise] to those who feel triggered by ‘Elastic Heart’. My intention was to create some emotional content, not to upset anybody.

A behind the scenes video of Elastic Heart has been released.

Jodie.

And what it would sound like without music:

American Graffiti

Director: George Lucas
Writer: George Lucas, Gloria Katz and Willard Huyck
Released: 1973
Featuring: Richard Dreyfuss, Ronny Howard, Paul Le Mat, Charlie Martin Smith, Candy Clark, Mackenzie Phillips, Cindy Williams and Wolfman Jack
—

This movie nearly didn’t get made. Boy, am I glad it was. This is in my top five movies – at least!

American Graffiti is the colourful account of the final night of high school for a group of students who go out cruising, attend ‘the hop’ and hang at the drive-in dina.

It’s not only an incredibly entertaining film, it’s also the most accurate documentation of what the sixties were all about.

This movie makes me upset because it makes me mourn the spectacular sixties. As mentioned in Midnight in Paris, it’s “Golden Age Thinking” – the thought that I’d be happier in another time. And boy does American Graffiti do that; it hits me right in the feels.

“The erroneous notion that a different time period was better than the one, one’s living in.” – Midnight in Paris

The music frequently takes centre stage with classics from the rise of the The Beach Boys, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry and a whole lot more. It’s the wall-to-wall rock ‘n’ roll hits that makes this movie so recognisable and exciting.

Of course with music comes radio, and its influence on the culture is seen. Wolfman Jack is the most popular radio host among the teenagers, who is looked up to and even sought out especially for personal advice. His charisma and unique material captures the infatuated listeners as his frequency hits almost every car in town.

If the music isn’t enough to paint the picture of the sixties, the cars and fashion are! I adore the cruising culture in this film. Unlike today’s cars of bland silver Toyotas with a monotonous tone, this film has the gorgeous cars of the 50s and 60s – all bright colours with personality.

In American Graffiti, it’s clear that everybody’s car is an extension of the driver’s personality, which seems a special trait of the sixties.

Based in one night – the final night of high school. Every kind of graduate is shown:

The cool guy John Milner (Paul Le Mat)
The nerd Terry Fields (Charles Martin Smith)
The scholar Curt Henderson (Richard Dreyfus)
The naive Carol (Mackenzie Phillips)
The Highschool Sweethearts Steve Bolander (Ron Howard) and Laurie Henderson (Cindy Williams).

Now, although it all seems like a typical stereotyped high school drama, believe me when I tell you that it isn’t. Perhaps it’s just the time

difference, but every character seems so real! Not stereotyped, but flawed, and all have their own problems and aspirations.

I can so relate to Curt – who wants to leave town and everyone in it, but I’m so drawn to Carol – the totally naive girl who can’t grow up fast enough.

The simplicity of the movie reflects the simplicity of the time. It is not boring; it’s relatable. As George Lucas said himself; “it’s filmed documentary style” which is why it’s a film that stands out.

I could drool over and talk about this film all day; I’m watching the behind the scenes doco for the third time right now!

Jodie’s rating: 9.5/10

Big Hero 6

Big Hero 6 film poster Directors: Don Hall and Chris Williams
Writers: Jordan Roberts, Dan Gerson and Robert L. Baird
Released: November 2014
Featuring: Ryan Potter, Scott Adsit, Daniel Henney, T.J. Miller, Jamie Chung, Damon Wayans Jr., Genesis Rodrigeuz, James Cromwell and Maya Rudolph (Bridesmaids)
—

2015’s new year animated film, Big Hero 6, is a perfectly adequate gate-way film to the Superhero genre.

It’s about an orphaned boy – because it would unravel the very fabric of the space-time continuum and destroy the entire universe (BttF2) if it was a hero who had parents.

This orphaned boy is called Hiro, and his brother made a robot, who is essentially a nurse, named Baymax.

Big Hero 6 film poster Anyway, one thing leads to another and Hiro has to get a super team together to catch the bad guy. The rest, I’m sure, you will be able to figure out.

The first half was typical Walt Disney: fun, whimsical with a dash of the warm and fuzzies. We had laugh-out-loud moments and knee-slapping scenes.

But by the time we got half way in, it was such a cookie-cutter, colour-by-numbers superhero film. The storyline was so obvious, and they had forgotten to make us laugh.

There’s a flying scene in it, which I’m certain was developed purely because they released a 3d version. Personally, I wouldn’t spend the extra dosh. It wasn’t that great of a scene.

Also, the city they’re in is San Francisco blended with Tokyo. They called it ‘San Fransokyo’. Which I think is STUPID. They should call it ‘San Tan Frokyo’ to ensure even distribution of both city names.

It’s better than Wreck-It Ralph and The Lego Movie, but not as good as How to Train Your Dragon or Megamind.

It’s one of the better children’s movies, but not the coolest. It’ll certainly encourage kids to go to university to become inventors though.

Jodie’s rating: 6/10

Never Tear Us Apart – Paloma Faith’s cover

Paloma Faith - Never Tear us apart song Never Tear Us Apart was written and performed by Australian rock band INXS in 1988. However, it was originally written in a bluesy genre with a similar sound to Fats Domino.

Oh how I would have loved to hear that version.

I do like the INXS version, but mostly because of the gnarly saxophone solo – which simply isn’t long enough!

However, Paloma Faith covered their song in 2012. She brought her jazzy/pop/blues sound to it, making it spine-tingling. I love it. Particularly the high note she pulls on this line:

I told you, that we could fly. ’cause we all have wings, but some of us don’t know WHHHHHY!

The only thing that’s missing from Faith’s version is a lengthy saxophone solo! Perhaps I’ll try to edit INXS’ sax solo into the bridge of Faith’s version.

Check it out:

Jodie.

The American Garage (web series)

The American Garage (online series) The American Garage is an online DIY show about woodwork and restoration. Some of their projects include restoring planes and building boats, as well as more affordable projects that are “at grass roots”.

They are currently looking for $26,200USD to continue their project, and are currently at $110. Episodes have already been produced and can be found on YouTube.

My favourite part is their motto and the reason behind their plea for funding: they want to relieve our reliance on conglomerates for products that could be built or modified at home.

They want people to stop being consumers and return to being producers!

The American Garage (online series) — Screenshot from The American Garage

For them to get funded, the quality of their filming needs to be improved, but this is an area the makers say they’ll work on.

The audio is shallow and distant – perhaps from using an in-camera microphone – and the quality of the footage looks like it was recorded on a 90s video camera.

Apart from that, I can see many people will find the projects interesting, and I could see viewers would be inspired to make a change to their consumerism.

If you’re interested in supporting this plea on Kickstarter, you can find it here.
Check out their website to find out more: www.theamericangarage.net

Jodie.

James Herman Banning: Greatest Story Never Told (short film)

James Herman Banning: Greatest Story Never Told (short film) On Indiegogo, a group are asking for funding for their short biographic about James Banning; the first African American to fly coast-to-coast.

The makers are looking for $45,000USD to cover costs of filming, they have currently raised almost $4,000. Keeping the wardrobe accurate is going to be difficult as Banning’s story takes place in the thirties.

His story is certainly inspirational. After being rejected from flying (due to being African American) he made his own plane using a 14-year-old engine, with help from donations.

Four months after Banning’s record, he died as a passenger in a plane. He was refused piloting the plane at a air show where it went into a tail spin and crashed.

The makers want to get Banning’s story honoured in hopes of inspiring young adults to be motivated and passionate.

If you’re interested in donating, check out their Indiegogo plea: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/telling-the-untold-story-of-james-herman-banning

They have already shot some footage. It’s top quality stuff, but the dialogue is a tad cheesy. Nevertheless, it seems like a worth while cause.

Jodie

Julie & Julia

Julie and Julia film poster Director: Nora Ephron
Writer: Julie Powell, Julia Child and Alex Prud’homme. Screenplay by Nora Ephron
Released: August 2009
Starring: Meryl Streep, Amy Adams, Stanley Tucci, Chris Messina, Linda Emond and Jane Lynch
—

I can NOT believe I haven’t reviewed this! I was so certain I had because this movie was the inspiration behind me starting this very blog!

Julie and Julia film - scene with Meryl Streep So! Julie & Julia, it is a typical rom-com drama, with a twist! The twist being the gorgeous, wonderful, classic Meryl Streep.

It follows two story lines – both of them based on true stories:

One is about Julia Child (Meryl Streep), an American living in France during the 40s. (That means trilling accents and beautiful dresses). She is struggling to adapt to French culture, so we follow how her love of food provided a comfort, and her plans to write a cookbook.

The second story is of Julie Powell (Amy Adams) in the modern day, a government worker by day who starts a cooking blog as an outlet. She uses Child’s cookbook as a guide: 524 recipes in 365 days.

(But if you look hard enough, you’ll find edits of Julie & Julia online without Julie Powell’s storyline at all!)

The intertwining stories mirror each other. Despite being worlds apart, Julie and Julia have much in common. Their love of food, and their journeys to become ‘unlost’ is the main point. However, their strong, supportive husbands is the other. (Julia’s husband Paul is played by the wonderful Stanley Tucci. I love him.)

My favourite person is Meryl Streep’s character. I’d love to have her as a best friend. She is so forgiving, embracing, loud, positive and reminds me of Beatrix Potter’s Jemima Puddle-Duck.

And what a gorgeously charasmatic person Julia Child really was! Meryl Streep impersonated her perfectly!

Julia makes me titter to the point of chortling in this movie. The way she speaks is like she’s stretching and kneading her words on her tongue. Goodness! I’m a poet.

Julia’s sister: From the beginning, you just don’t fit in. Literally. So then you don’t!

Now, I am not a foodie. I don’t enjoy food. I don’t look forward to meals. I don’t like cooking… I eat toasted sandwiches. Julie and Julia - scene with Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci And microwavable things. So, the fact that this is a story about cooking is not attractive to me.

I hate how noisy this film is. Every smack of their lips, every slurp and slap. It makes me cringe. Nevertheless, after every viewing I become starving, and crave things my eight-year-strong vegetarian diet strongly forbids.

Paul: What is it that you really like to do?
Julia: Eat. It’s what I like to do!
Paul: I know, I know, I know. And you’re so good at it! Look at you!
Julia: I am good at it… I’m growing right in front of you!

But ultimately, I love this movie. I love the relationship of Julia and Paul Child, and Julie’s courage to not only begin a blog, but to stick with it.

I think it’s the lovable characters and inspirational passion that I love about this film.

Jodie’s rating: 7/10

Invert – Origin Of The Telepathic Hero

Invert - Origin Of The Telepathic Hero This is a sci-fi, action, superhero film that is looking for funding.

This movie is about a neuroscientist whose experiment backfired, and equipped him with the ability to manipulate minds.

An action-packed feature with Inception-esk scores. I have now noticed that the director/writer, Joseph Mbah, is a fan of Christopher Nolan which explains that similarity.

I’m impressed to see how young the director is – only 24!!

Invert - Origin Of The Telepathic Hero In order for the feature film to be completed, they need $250,000USD. Depending on how much an individual donates, depends on what prize you get – and some of the prizes are pretty decent!

I think the quality of this film is up there, and it could be a strong movie with the financial support.

I’m a superhero nut too, so I’m keen to see how this one turns out.

If you want to donate to the making of their film on Indiegogo, click here. Check out the footage they’ve got so far in their promo here.

Jodie.

Her

joaquin phoenix in Her film poster
Director: Spike Jonze
Writer: Spike Jonze
Released: October, 2013
Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams, Rooney Mara, Olivia Wilde and Scarlett Johansson
—

(Prepare to see a lot of screen grabs with quotes from this film around. The script is so poetic.)

Her is a sci-fi romance, drama hybrid that premiered at the 2013 New York Film Festival.

It’s set in the near future where rather than keeping one’s head down – staring at a phone screen – people now have an ear piece that respond to voice commands.

joaquin phoenix in Her film The operational system – or OS – that performs the requests now have personalities, and for all intense and purposes, are a personal assistant with feelings and emotions equal in complexity to humans.

This new update is something that the main character, melancholy and lonely Theodore Twombly (Joaquin Phoenix), becomes immediately interested in.

By day, Theodore is a professional personal letter writer, which is an occupation where people who feel unable or unwilling to compose heart-felt and genuine letters to loved ones pay letter writers like Theodore to do so on their behalf.

joaquin phoenix in Her film (I’m really hoping this job gets invented soon. I’d be on that like white on RICE!)

I think his job is an example of how emotionally distant we are becoming as technology becomes the middle-man in human interactions.

It’s also the perfect job for this introverted character, who clearly expresses his emotions best when done so indirectly. I think this is a characteristic that allowed him to get so attached to his personalised OS, named Samantha (voiced by Scarlett Johansson).

Before long, Samantha and Theodore have bonded and their relationship grows.

Considering Samantha isn’t a physical character yet still a main character in the movie, Her is fantastically written and shot.

Amy Adams - Her movie OS/human relationships become a common phenomenon, and certainly makes the viewer question what makes a relationship, and what love is.

If you think about it, meeting people online was frowned upon not too long ago. I think the OS relationship story parallels the shift in society’s thinking about online relationships.

Or, a colder interpretation of this story is how we are avoiding personal relationships by hiding behind screens all the time. Where people are ‘being in love with their lap top or phone’. But I don’t think this is the writer’s ambition, according interviews I’ve seen.

I found Her a really thought-provoking film. I enjoy movies that focus on characters, human behaviour and social development, and I think this is quite an accurate depiction of what the future could look like.

Her is an interesting insight into the future of romantic relationships, an interesting reflection on what relationships fundamentally are, what the most important components are, and what the common obstacles are.

It’s a fascinating and compelling analysis of the human heart and its complexities.

Sorry, I know I’m babbling on – I could say a lot more – but my final point is about the clothes. I bet this is accurate of what we will wear in the future. No silver jump suits, but a mix of old fashioned pants and bold shirts.

Oh wait! This is my final point: the music by Arcade Fire is AMAZING.

Her may be a little too abstract or boring for some watchers. But I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

Young Adult

Director: Jason Reitman
Writer: Diablo Cody
Released: December 2011
Starring: Charlize Theron, Patton Oswalt, Patrick Wilson, Elizabeth Reaser and Collette Wolfe
—

Another classic Diablo Cody script! I love the dialogue she writes for characters who are (for lack of a better word) ‘real’. Jason Reitman is the director of this comedy-drama, who is responsible for the likes of Juno and Up in the Air.

Young Adult is about a ghost writer, Mavis Gary (Charlize Theron), who returns to her home town to try and get back with an old flame, Buddy. Buddy, however, is married and has just had a baby and is in no way interested in what Mavis is so obviously implying.

Mavis’ mum: That new baby of his is just darling.
Mavis: Have you seen it? …up close?

Her pessimistic and delusional outlook is something that [unfortunately] I love about her. She is rude, aloof and doesn’t care what people think of her.

Her language is just great though. The way she talks about marriage and children is like she’s talking about a disease that needs to be avoided. Mavis tells Buddy that ‘we can beat this thing together’ referring to his family. I’m tickled by that. This really isn’t a typical comedy at all.

Thankfully, during her crisis, Mavis meets a guy who she also used to go to high school with, Matt (Patton Oswalt).

Matt was severely attacked during high school resulting in him being disabled. But they bond over hating the same things. Mavis projects her hatred outwardly, and Matt eventually realises he has nothing to lose by expressing his anger around her too.

Mavis is such a lost soul though. She tortures herself by forever reminiscing about her high school days, when she was popular. It doesn’t help that she writes a ‘young adult’ series about popularity in high school, which becomes her diary disguised as a fictional teenage novel.

I love this movie because it’s character-based. It’s not fast-paced, just like real life, and hangs on to every emotion of the unstable Mavis, which makes you squirm. She’s so immature… But entertaining because she’s so expressive.

It’s not a movie for everyone. But I enjoy analysing behaviour, and I find the subtleties in this film interesting. She’s entertainingly perpetually disgusted with everything.

Check out my favourite scene in the movie here. It’s when Mavis Gary loses the plot at Buddy and Beth’s (Elizabeth Reaser) baby shower. It’s oddly empowering. Although I feel like I’m doing the wrong thing by taking her side.

I suppose this is a movie where the protagonist is the ‘bad guy’, and you can’t help but support and relate to her.

Jodie’s rating: 7/10

My Idol: Paloma Faith

I have always been a fan of Paloma Faith because she was funny on chat shows, and her singles I heard on the radio were catchy. However, I have since become a slightly more dedicated fan.

I have done my research: Paloma Faith Blomfield is 33 years-old and she grew up less than an hour away from where I grew up in England. She also has an overbite like I do. So I’m clinging on to the idea that if I had stayed in England, and despite my crooked teeth, I would have become a pop star. Just like Paloma.

*Heavy breathing*

She seems so humble and so much fun to be around! If I could party with any star, it would be Paloma.

Paloma’s always done what she wanted. I don’t think she’s ever had a boring job, from a magician’s assistant to a trained cocktail waitress. And she never even meant to be a pop star! She wanted to be a movie director.

Yes. We are both huge film fans.

Her voice is spectacular. She almost sounds gospel-like and is influenced by 50s and 60s music. She’s like Amy Winehouse, Duffy, Florence Welch and Adele mixed into one.

Yes. We are both huge 50s/60s music fans.

Paloma loves fashion and always wears bold outfits (like a conservative Lady Gaga). Therefore, I have bought a 40s style hat. That I now wear.

I love her confidence and how witty she is. Also, she sounds like my nan so I just feel a warm wave of nostalgia every time she talks.

I hope to go to one of her concerts one day!

Also, I’m pretty sure we would be best friends.

I feel like I’m sounding like a creepy stalker.

Jodie

My favourite song of Paloma’s at the moment:

Interstellar

Interstellar film poster

Director: Christopher Nolan
Writer: Jonathan Nolan, Christopher Nolan
Released: November 2014
Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Michael Caine, Jessica Chastain and Matt Damon
—

If you loved Gravity and Inception, you’ll love Interstellar.

Interstellar movie - watching Earth The time travelling concepts in this movie are easy to grasp if you’re familiar with the sci-fi genre. If you can keep up with Doctor Who, you’ll keep up with this.

It’s set in the future where scientists are aware that crops are failing and the end of the world could be near. NASA is attempting to find another planet so that the human race can continue.

I would love to tell you more, but I’m worried I’ll ruin something! (For the record, the trailer makes it out to be an average film… It’s not.)

Anne Hathaway in Interstellar movie — Anne Hathaway in Interstellar

Gravity movie is similar to Interstellar film — Sandra Bullock in Gravity

I love this movie. I think Matthew McConaughey did a fantastic job, and I have a new found respect for Anne Hathaway.

It did make me wonder if Anne Hathaway was considered for Sandra Bullock’s role in Gravity though. Because the characters are very similar, physically and characteristically.

There are some gorgeous scenes in this movie. Which isn’t surprising, because Interstellar is a Nolan film.

Insterstellar film review My favourite scene is when they are on another planet, a water planet. Rather than regular waves, there are tsunamis that arrive every so often. And every one hour spent on this planet, is seven years on Earth.

There was just one thing I was disappointed about: the ending. It was a little too perfect. I think if it ended with a similar feel to Gravity‘s final scene, which was open-ended but with a feeling of hope.

Whereas, Interstellar ended like a Hollywood drama, the i’s were dotted and the t’s were crossed, wrapped in glossy paper with a bow.

Despite that, it is worth a watch if you’re fascinated with worm holes, time manipulation, outer space and strong characters.

Loved it.

Jodie’s rating: 9/10

Thelma & Louise

Director: Ridley Scott
Writer: Callie Khouri
Released: May 1991
Starring: Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis, Harvey Keitel, Michael Madsen and Brad Pitt
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I can’t believe I haven’t written about Thelma & Louise. This is my favourite movie of all time.

In 1991, Ridley Scott made the genius decision to direct a cinematic breakthrough with two strong female characters, essentially playing traditionally male roles.

Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon were stupendous. Absolutely the perfect actresses to portray Thelma, the naive housewife, and Louise, the hardened but streetwise woman.

If you haven’t seen this movie, it’s about two women who needed a break from their respective husband and boyfriend, and took a weekend away. Except, after getting caught up in a major kerfuffle, the women find themselves on the run from the law. They have never experienced such freedom, and use the lack of rules to their advantage by going on a crime spree. But, they do take moral responsibility for everything they do. They are able to fully explore who they are without the moulding of a man in their lives.

I love films about the characters. Like The Jane Austen Book Club, where you can see a piece of yourself in every character, and the clear development of them.

I’m drawn to this honest movie because Thelma and Louise break through their fears. They learn hard lessons, but ultimately become exactly who they want to be. Reminding me of the The Secret Life of Walter Mitty where he takes off to Iceland and discovers how freedom can shape you. Perhaps part of the same runaway genre.

It’s a road trip film with gorgeous scenery and music that perfectly fits. It’s based in the South as the pair are heading for Mexico. However, the film was actually shot in rural California and Utah – even the Grand Canyon scenes.

On the road in their blue/green T-Bird convertible, the women evolve physically too. Thelma Dickinson, the housewife, starts out with flowing dresses and long hair. By the end, her hair is tied back, she’s wearing a trucker’s black shirt with sleeves rolled up and jeans. Louise Sawyer, the surly, controlling character, starts out wearing an outfit that is ‘just so’. By the end, she’s wearing a loose tank top and jeans.

They strip off their make up and steal men’s hats and clothing. The denim jacket from Brad Pitt’s character is altered by the women by making it sleeveless and using parts of it for neck ties and such. Almost as a way to tear the layers of control and weakness away, and rebuild their characters in the ways they want.

I also see this as their way of dismembering authority. In the same way that a hunter kills fierce animals for its fur, and taking it as a trophy.

The men in this movie play important parts but take a back seat to the development of Thelma and Louise. Sometimes literally. I read that some found the movie to be ‘man-hating’. But I think it’s just unusual to see two strong women convincingly portrayed in films.

Thieving men (Brad Pitt), rude truck drivers, controlling husbands and flaky boyfriends, Thelma and Louise find ways to rebel, and use the men to their advantage. They stop relying on men for protection, and start standing on their own two feet.

I’m so inspired by these characters. They are so independent and fearless, yet they are so carefree and fun despite their situation.

I think everyone can see the naive, open and scared ‘Thelma’ in themselves, and the logical, unwavering and powerful ‘Louise’. Which is why these characters are so relatable and ‘real’.

Thelma & Louise is a profound, freeing and exciting journey. I love this film so much because the women are doing what every woman wants to feel capable of doing. Being in control of their future, going wherever they want, and nobody is getting in their way! Everything is on their terms right to the end.

I’m going to steal what Susan Sarandon said in an interview; it is a comedy and a tragedy with a surprise ending, and political significance.

This is a pretty long review so I’ll stop here. Believe me, I could make it longer!

This is a timeless film that makes my imagination run wild. It’s adventurous and always makes me feel happy and inspired at the end of every watch. However, I don’t want to give it full marks because it is for quite a narrow audience.

Jodie’s rating: 9.5/10

Sunshine (short film)

Director: Michael Tracy
Writers: Michael Tracy
Released: 2014
Starring: Rebecca Hanssen, Colin MacDougall and Julie Martis
—

This is an independent short film by Scottish filmmaker Michael Tracy, who also wrote and produced it.

It’s a horror-drama, which, based on the trailer looks like it could certainly be a thrilling watch about an affair that has shocking a twist.

It is a struggle to make a film independently, so there are a lot of things you can forgive. However, it’s a shame the darkly-lit scenes were a tad grainy. If the filmmaker had shot it with more light and then put a dark filter over the scenes in post, I think the final product would have looked higher quality.

Judging purely by the trailer, the acting seems pretty top-notch though – making it pretty creepy and compelling!
I think the best thing independent filmmakers can do is keep cast members low, keep the sets few, and keep the production short. I think Sunshine has ticked the boxes there, so I think this short film has decent foundations to be a scary watch.

I haven’t seen the film, but I am certainly intrigued.

Jodie.

Check out their Facebook page, and trailer:

Tissue (Short film)

Director/writer: Stuart Wahlin
Featuring: North Roberts and Anita Boska
—

A six minute film made in a 60 hour film competition about a drinker with a writing problem.

A one-character show with little dialogue, but a compelling voice over script making it seem almost Sin City-esk.

I actually quite enjoyed it. Showing the struggles of somebody who finds a 9-5 job utter hell. The only thing this character enjoys is writing, despite never finishing his projects or having anything published.

With a drink in one hand and a cigarette in the other, the writer finds himself to be the biggest hindrance. Even more so than the power cuts and constant distractions.

I’ve found that many of these amateur/self funded films with limited dialogue reflects badly on the actors who tend to over-act to fill in the silence. I didn’t finds this was the case in Tissue though. The acting was subtle and believable.

A perfectly entertaining short film.

Jodie.

Check it out on Youtube by searching for “Tissue Stuart Wahlin”

Book me to independently review your favourite song, music video or film here.

Deliver Us from Evil

Director: Scott Derrickson
Writers: Scott Derrickson and Paul Harris Boardman (screenplay), Ralph Sarchie and Lisa Collier Cool (story)
Starring: Eric Bana, Édgar Ramírez, Olivia Munn, Sean Harris and Joel McHale
Released: July 2014
—

Was this supposed to be a black comedy?

I had been told Deliver Us from Evil was on par with The Conjuring. But I honestly can’t say this was the case. It was a suspenseful, supernatural thriller, but not something that would keep you up at night.

Apparently based on ‘true events’ of a New York cop Ralph Sarchie (Eric Bana) who encounters demonic forces. The mysterious cases quickly become bizarre and laughable.

Reading up about the true events of this cop, I think the only ‘true’ parts that were used in the film was his name and characteristics. There’s an interview on Youtube where he says most of the “possessed” people he encountered turned out to have mental issues.

In the film we follow Sarchie as he slowly unravels the peculiar happenings of what turns out to be people with demons in their houses. Throwing children into lion dens at the zoo, cat worshiping, scratching at walls, and croaky voices was just some of the fun that ensues.

A tad too typical of a horror, with the characteristics of a scary movie thrown in even if it doesn’t fit. Like when the daughter suddenly has the urge to wind the musical jack-in-the-box before she goes to bed. Because we all know how creepy the combination of children, musical boxes and darkness is.

I couldn’t take it seriously because of the weird choice of music that face-plants you back into reality. Imagine getting into a super tense part in the movie and then have the theme song ‘People Are Strange’ by The Doors blasting. What a way to snap you out of it!

The acting was a bit average, particularly the 6-year-old daughter, whose toys come to life at night. I felt like I was in a mash-up of The Ring and Toy Story.

maxresdefault

Quite frankly, I couldn’t keep a straight face when the demonised people were talking, I wasn’t scared of the dude who ate his own leg either… I was just grossed out. And the final exorcism went on for way too long. I fell asleep toward the end of that scene.

Finally, the religious messages of how non-believers are screwed and your only hope for protection is by converting to a life of God in some form, was a tad over-kill!

A few things will make you jump, but overall it wasn’t scary or creepy… Just weird.

Jodie’s rating: 4/10

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

Director: Matt Reeves
Writers: Mark Bomback, Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver
Released: July 2014
Featuring: Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke, Gary Oldman, Keri Russell, Toby Kebbell and Kodi Smit-McPhee
—

koba_an-ape-never-forgets I wasn’t expecting much from this sequel, but I thoroughly enjoyed it!

A desolate planet with a small population living within the remains of an apocalypse. The humans are in search of a water supply to ensure electricity to their commune. However, the apes that were used in trials in the prequel have populated the forests where the water supply is.

I found the body language of the apes and the reactions of the humans fascinating.

The apes didn’t use English too much of the time so subtitles were uses, but even without them it was remarkably easy to understand them.It’s clear the makers did their homework regarding the body language of the apes!

la_ca_0403_dawn_of_planet_apes_028 Although, I did find the human storyline almost irrelevant. I was so captured by the story of the apes that the humans became uninteresting. Apes riding horses holding spears? Come on. Who needs people?

It was a great balance between emotion and action. The fight scenes showed off the motion capture incredibly! Particularly with apes riding the horses… I can’t get over how realistic it all was.

An exciting and captivating film about the clash of cultures and revenge. The storyline is more-or-less typical of the genre, but it is one of the best examples of modern film making; taking advantage of today’s technology… The motion capture will make you drool.

Jodie’s rating: 7.5/10

What Was Yesterday – My Secret Island

This is a song by the German band named My Secret Island. I was going to call them a goth-rock band based upon their latest single: What Was Yesterday because of their zombie-themed music video and heavy guitars.

However, looking through their back catalogue I found a fantastic range of genres including a cover of T. Roe’s Sheila from the 1960s and a more upbeat electro-rock sounding song named Evil Fire.

What Was Yesterday is a rock song with a well done music video portraying a sort of Frankenstein-zombie apocalypse story. It’s awesome to see a band take as much time with their music videos as they do with their songs.

If you isolate each component of this song you will get the essence of this genre mash-up.

The drumming reminds me of sixties rock ‘n’ roll during the verses, but along with the heavy guitars, it becomes a darker sounding goth-rock throughout the chorus. The vocals are definitely has a pop-punk sound which keeps My Secret Island from slipping into being too mainstream or too metal. Which I like!

I haven’t heard anything like them before, yet it sounds so recognisable… They’ve thrown our favourite genres and sounds into a pot, creating a Frankenstein sub-genre (which matches their horror music video perfectly!).

I thoroughly enjoyed this single, and I loved that music video! It’s off beat and fun… Yet dark and intense.

Their Facebook page is here.

Check our their new single, What Was Yesterday below.

You can purchase their music here:
Musicload: http://goo.gl/N43Nz4
Amazon: http://goo.gl/aiqr0O
iTunes: http://goo.gl/BNV4xd

Jodie.

Book me to independently review your favourite song, music video or film here.

The Louise Log (web series)

I watched Episode 2, Series 3:

After reading a bit about the background, I found the short-and-sweet episodes to be easily digestible.

It is a popular underground web-series about a New York woman surrounded by ‘crackpot relatives’.

The episode I watched was quirky and weird, but almost to the point of being cringe-worthy. The characters were theatrical and outrageous – certainly made for the stage.

It is, however, created by several accomplished writers, directors and actors, particularly with Sundance Film Competitions on their CV.

Although this webcom is not my cup of tea, I can appreciate the amount of work that must go into these weekly episodes. What dedication to make it to their third season of the show, raising over $20,000 to fund it! Plus, the bravery and perfectionism they have to change the actor playing the main character three times during the series.

A very specific kind of humour which I may be missing because of my lack of American culture. But worth a look!

Jodie.

Book me to independently review your favourite song, music video or film here.

Movies About Time Travel

I do love time travel. It can be matched up to any theme; romance, action, a light-hearted chick-flick, drama, thriller, comedy… It’s so versatile, yet remains so interesting. It is a theme that explores freedom, risk and responsibility.

But be careful! There are many of us who will be happy to point out the inconsistent, nitty-gritty details when making a story based around time travel.

These are just a few movies that are worth a look if you’re into time travel:

Back to the Future I
Back to the Future II
Back to the Future III
My favourite trilogy of all time. Creative, exciting, relatable and fun. It explores many aspects of time travel – to the future, to the past – and how fragile it can be.

The Time Traveller’s Wife
A romantic film, yet with the time travelling theme. Very well intertwined! I feel like time travelling and not being able to take your clothes would be an unfortunate likelihood. So in that respect, someone’s put a bit of thought into the logistics.
Also, Rachel McAdams… She’s incredible.

About Time
A light hearted and cheeky take on the hereditary time travelling gift. It has a brilliant cast including Rachel McAdams (again) and Bill Nighy. I like how it’s about ordinary people with time travel ability.

The Butterfly Effect
A haunting tale of all the things that could go wrong when time travelling. An ultimate thriller, although very creepy indeed. It has a cringe-worthy feel that reminds me of Requiem for a Dream. Probably not a ‘fun’ film, but certainly an incredibly well-made film.

Looper
Although the storyline was a little disappointing, the creativity of the time travel theme was refreshing. We were seeing a gangster and under-handed use of time travel. It has an action twist to the sci-fi subject.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
My second favourite Harry Potter movie. Purely for the time travelling, I have to admit. But it’s a great story.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1
This is my favourite Harry Potter film. They ‘aparated’ (a magical method of transportation) all over the country. Although, I guess that’s not technically time travel.

Midnight In Paris
No watch, no Tardis. Yet, at midnight every night a 1920s vehicle would pick Gil up and take him back in time. This was a beautiful film, harnessing everybody’s fantasies and bringing them to life.

Hmm. Maybe one day we’ll have time travel!

Jodie.
PS. Where are the female time travellers at?

Wild Girl Waltz (Indie film)

A0108 — From left, characters: Angie, Brian and Tara

Director: Mark Lewis
Writer: Mark Lewis
Released: 2013
Starring: Christina Shipp, Samantha Steinmetz, Jared Stern, Brad Hemsath, Scott Lewis, Kim Barlow, Kim Gordon, Alexander Cook, Julian Lowenthal and Sean McDonald
—

This cast and crew deserve applause!

This is a comedy about the adventures of two girls, Angie (Christina Shipp) and Tara (Samantha Steinmetz), who pop some unknown pills to escape boredom in their small town.

Brian (Jared Stern), Tara’s boyfriend, comes home to find the girls high. Brian ends up ‘babysitting’ them and we follow their crazy and hilarious journey through the town.

The script is actually really genuine and funny. Talking in depth about colours and other irrelevant and random subjects.

Brian provides a great balance in the film. We are seeing what is happening through his eyes, rather than the story turning into a ‘Dumb & Dumber‘ kind of deal.

Some of the scenes, particularly the montages, could be edited down to make them snappier and keep the comedic pace.

The acting is certainly believable. The delivery of the dialogue is so genuine in most cases.

The reaction of Angie getting doused in milkshake was great. Also, Brian’s (Jared Stern) conversation about how the girls’ got a pie after leaving them alone for just a few minutes, were all very memorable moments. Very well portrayed!

Actually the ‘pie’ scene where the girls have to hide their drug induced high in front of Mrs. Wolvertine, a church-group friend or Tara’s mum, was hilarious. It was so awkward, but so natural!

Mrs. Wolvertine: [to Angie] Remind Tara if she forgets, will you dear?
Angie: Actually, there is no way I can carry that kind of responsibility…
*sprints over to the truck and throws herself on the flatbed*

The rest of this scene will have you in stitches.

*Brian gets into the car and looks over at Angie with a pie on her lap*
“…where the f*** did you get a pie?”

His facials were so blank yet so confused, it just made that line so funny.

I think it would have been cool to have a few scenes through the eyes of Angie and Tara, or even just a few flashes of their perception.

The photography is pretty good! There were a few shots that could have had better composition. But for the most part, the film is well shot and the audio is clear.

It felt like the cast were completely comfortable, like they were just hanging out with friends. This gave the whole movie a really natural tone, allowing the funny material to come easily.

I was expecting to see a bit more of a character development or a more obvious moral by the end. But a fun film nevertheless!

Well done!
Jodie.

Check out the trailer HERE

Just as a side note: Samantha Steinmetz reminds me of Vera Farmiga