"Stan & Ollie" (Preview Screening)

Not matter what age you are, just about everyone has heard of Stan Laurel & Oliver Hardy. The genius of their work is perfectly illustrated by the fact that we are still watching and loving their films more than  80 years after they were made. They are up there with the absolute greats, like Keaton, Lloyd and Chaplin.

To make a documentary about them would be one thing, but to actually portray them, and thus bring them to life, well that is a whole different ball game. Their quirks and mannerisms are so well known, it is not a performance that you can do half heartedly. You have to give it 100%, and then some.
And boy do John C. Reilly and Steve Coogan deliver.
I would have thought that the prospect of recreating these two comedy Icons for the big screen would be a daunting task but these two great Actors seem to have a great ease in their work. It is far from an impersonation, far more than that. They inhabit these two men, and it is just like seeing Laurel & Hardy on screen one more time.

The film mainly centres on their later years as they embark on a tour of the Theatres of Britain, whilst at the same time working on a forthcoming return to the Big Screen with a Comedy version of Robin Hood. Their relationship has been a little frosty since they went their seperate ways due to the Studio Contract system. Theatre Impresario Bernard Delfonte lures them to the UK. Times have changed, especially since the Second World War. Will the masses still come out to see a double act who best worked together almost 20 years earlier?

Naturally the tour takes its toll on Oliver's health, and on their friendship. It is a compelling look at these two giants of mirth, and it is beautifully written by Jeff Pope, and Directed by Jon S. Baird.
The team lovingly recreate some of those legendary sketches but it is thanks to the truly outstanding performances of the two lead actors. They do far more than impersonate Laurel & Hardy, they do far more than characterize Laurel & Hardy. For me they ARE Laurel & Hardy.

If you thought that "Bohemian Rhapsody" would get the title of Best biopic of the year, then think again, as it might just have been beaten.....10 out of 10

Quick Reviews:- "Creed II", "Ralph Wrecks The Internet:, "The Old Man & His Gun", "Green Book", "Tulip Fever"

A quick apology....I am sorry for doing the briefest of reviews for these recently seen five films, but I have been rather inundated what with work, especially with it being Christmas, and also getting ready for the Festive season. I hope that you will still get an idea of what I thought of these movies.

 "Creed" showed that although the film series was getting on for being 40 years old, that there was still plenty of fight in the boxing material. It became both a Box Office and Critical success, and with a great performance from Stallone, earning him a Golden Globe, and an Oscar nomination.

Now we have the sequel, which for anyone who has seen the previous movies, will know that we are revisiting the past, and in an inspired idea, we see the Son of Apollo Creed come face to face with Son of Ivan Drago, he being the man responsible for his Father's untimely death.
Rocky is set against the match, and advises Adonis Creed that he has nothing to prove, but Creed knows that if he is to keep his Title, then he must face the Russian.

Some Critics have said that this pales somewhat to the first "Creed" film,  but I disagree. I think it is every bit as good. Stallone again gives a beautifully understated performance, and Michael B. Jordan is great as the young upcoming Boxing Champ.

Its a knockout.......9 out of 10

My other half is a huge gamer and was not impressed with the first 'Ralph' film, saying that there were not enough in-jokes for gaming fans. I cannot comment on this, but rest assured we both thoroughly enjoyed this sequel, with great animation, and laughh out loud moments. There is a small section where it loses its way towards the end, but pulls it back for a good finale.
A vast improvement, and a sequel that is better than the original....8 out of 10

Much has been made of the probable impending retirement of a true Hollywood legend, with Actor & Director Robert Redford leaving the Cinematic world.
In this swansong of a film, based on real life exploits, he plays an aged man, who along with two equally aged friends, robs banks. What leaves the Police so baffled, is that any Bank staff involved, always say how charming they are during the robbery, and that Redford does it with a smile. A real gentleman of the Thieving Fraternity. Along the way he meets typical American Housewife SIssy Spacek, and forms a friendship with her. Casey Affleck is the face of the Police, and is hot on Redford's trail, with they get their Man?  That would be telling.
Some have speculated about a possible Oscar nomination for Redford. It is a good role, but overall I felt it was Redford being Redford, that Gentleman of the Screen, playing a Gentleman on Screen. It made no major demands of him as an actor, bhut was still highly enoyable.....7 out of 10

Through no fault of its own, this film (which I got to see 2 months ahead pf general release) almost turned into a disaster. The screening I attended showed the film with subtitles, which for a foreign language is fine, but I find it very distracting when used on a English language film. Am I the only one who thinks like this?

 I knew nothing about the subject matter, especially as it was a secret screening. The start of the film did little to arouse my interest, showing a racist and homophobic Italian, Tony, working in a nightclub. 

When the Nightclub has to close temporarily Tony has to set about finding some employment, and ends uo being Chauffeur to the lead Pianist of a touring Jazz trio. Naturally a white man driving a black Jazz painist is going to raise eyebrows, it probably would in certain States now, let alone 50 years ago. Tony also acts as a bit of a muscle man if things get heavy. But given the time despite being the star of the show, segregation is still rife, and our Jazz player, Don Shirley, has to find a particular hotel to stay, where Blacks are accepted, There is a road guide which highlights such hotels, it is called the Green Book. He also finds that despite playing in lavish venues, he may all too often have to use a utility room to get changed.

The film looks at racism, and homophobia, and it is a very unlikely friendship that blossoms through the film. It struck me that it was a bit like "Driving Miss Daisy" but in reverse. 

Great performances from Viggo Mortensen but especially Mahershala Ali as Don Shirley. It wasn't until the end of the film, that I found it was based on a true story. One to enjoy.....8 out of 10

Battles for precious Tulip bulbs, a painting commission and love in 17th Century Amsterdam, not the most enticing subject matter for a film, hut none the less it makes for a really good film. When the Tulip became popular, the demand for bulbs was high, and if you got a really rare bloom, you could command a very high price.
Add to the mix a local well to do Man and his younger wife, who seems unable to conceive, and the plot begins to thicken, especially when the wealthy Husband commissions a local young artist to paint their portrait, and the Painter and the young wife fall for each other.

There is a wealth of acting talent, with Supporting Actor Oscar Winners like Alicia Vikander, Christoph Waltz and Dame Judi Dench, not to mention a favourite actor of mine, namely Jack O' Connell.
I was pleasantrly surprised.....7 out of 10

"Suspiria"

Most film fans, even if they have not seen a Dario Argento film, will almost certainly be familiar with both the Director and his films.
So being aware of his Career, I made the decision to watch this remake, despite knowing absolutely nothing about it.
And although I sat through the whole two and a half hours of the film, I am still no wiser as to what the film was about.

There must have been something about it as the time did not drag, but I just felt that it was completely wasted. The only saving grace is the performance from Tilda Swinton. Or should that be performances??

It is hard to believe that Luca Guadagnino, who directed one of last year's best films, namely "Call Me By Your Name" directed this Argento remake too. 

Almost three hours of my life I will never get again........3 out of 10

"Widows"

Anyone of a certain age, me included, will be more than fully aware of the ITV series that this film is based upon. It aired in the early 1980's and had two follow up series. The events of this new film version are based on that first ground-breaking series.

Harry Rawlins is a tough as nails criminal. He and his gang carry out jobs and they and their families reap the financial rewards, though their families may not be fully aware of how their lavish lifestyles are maintained. Being old school, Harry keeps a journal of each of the jobs he has carried out, not the best of ideas, especially should the Authorities get their hands on it. Mind you it all becomes irrelevant anyway, when Harry and his team are killed in a shoot-out with the Police when carrying their latest job.

The remaining widows form an alliance, this they have to do as a Politician was the target of Harry's Gang, and the money they stole was part of his Campaign funding, and understandably he wants it back, leaving Harry's widow 1 month to pay the $2 million he is owed.
So she gets the widows together to carry out the next job in Harry's journal to clear them of any debt towards the Politician, and also have enough left over to start a new life.

Anyone who has not seen the original series will no doubt really enjoy this reimagining of Lynda La Plante's material. But I felt it did little to bring anything fresh to the Screen. The advantage of the original is that as it was a series, it had far more screen time to fill out the characters. This could have been done with the film had it not looked at the Political side of things, that whole subplot was totally unnecessary.
The cast are all good, with Viola Davis on great form as Harry's widow Veronica, and also worthy of mention is Cynthia Enrivo as 'Belle'.  The likes of Colin Farrell, Liam Neeson and Robert Duvall just seem to go through their paces.

Will there be any eagle eyed viewers out there who spot a wonderful cameo?

Ok but not a patch on a series that is over 35 years old and still packs a punch....5 out of 10

"The Grinch"

As the festive season approaches, we start with one of the first Christmas based films to hit the Cinema, and the classic story of "The Grinch".

We've had the live action version played by Jim Carrey, now almost 20 years later we have a new animated film, with the title character voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch.

In the magical Christmas loving town of Whoville, the residents get ready as the festive season draws ever closer. Everyone is getting really excited, all apart from one. A miserly so & so, who looks down upon the festivities. In order to make everyone feel as miserable as he, The Grinch puts a plan in motion to steal their Christmas, everything from the last card and present to every tree and bauble. Will he succeed?

The film is aimed at a young audience, and fans of the original book may think that the Jim Carrey film is rightfully darker, but I have not seen that, only this new animated version, and I loved it. There is something for everyone. It has quite a few laugh out loud moments, the animation, as one would expect, is outstanding, it was just 90 minutes of great fun.

It gets Christmas off to great start....8 out of 10

PS - For Minions fans, there is a short at the beginning, and yes it's very funny lol

"Overlord"

I have never really gotten the whole Zombie thing. I gave up on watching "The Walking Dead" after just five minutes of the first episode, maybe not exactly fair, but I still feel I made the right choice.
So, needless to say, I had very little desire to watch his new release, and the only reason I did was that I wanted to watch a double bill and this was the only other film I could watch.

I'm so glad that it worked out that way.

We start the film as a group of ParaTroopers are on route to a village Church in France, their aim is to destroy a radio transmitter. But not all is as it seems within the walls of the Church.
For the Germans have discovered a liquid, which when injected gives the host renewed strength, even when dead. The Nazis have been experimenting on both the Village locals, and captured Soldiers. The ultimate goal to create a Third Reich that the World will never forget.
Despite one the American troops seeing first hand what is unfolding in the Church, his Commanding officer stays with their mission, and that of destroying the transmitter. It's not until things get a little close to home does the mission change.

The best way I can think of to describe this film is its "Saving Private Ryan" meets "Inglorious Bastards" meets "28 Days Later". I absolutely fricking loved it. Right from the opening frames, it is a delight to watch. It has everything. The cast are all excellent, the Direction is outstanding, and both the visual and special effects plus the make-up are really awesome.
Please note that this film is an 18 certificate, and it is with VERY good reason. It is not for the faint hearted. In fact I think had there been a 21 age certificate, it may have been awarded it.

110 minutes of undead brilliance......8 out of 10

"Bohemian Rhapsody"

The production of this movie has been ongoing for quite some time, and one forgets about all the goings on, most notably the sacking of A-List Director Bryan Singer just before the film was completed. In fact the production of the film could probably make for a compelling documentary.

Again like "Hunter Killer", I am wondering whether I have seen the same film as some critics, given some of the comments that I have been reading. I am baffled as to why anyone cannot heap the greatest of praise on this biopic.The film charts the career of both the Group Queen, and its legendary front man Freddie Mercury, one of the greatest Performers of all time.
The film opens with a brief glimpse of what will be a memorable performance at Live Aid, but then we back track at take look at the rise of one of the greatest Rock groups ever, and the many journeys that they have been on.

There are very few people who will be unaware of the music of Queen, and the film provides a wonderful reminder of the many great tracks that they wrote and performed. It tells the fascinating story of their early days, the problems they faced with getting the title song released, Freddie wanting to go solo, and that now legendary performance in July 1985.
I feel sure that had the film just been about Freddie Mercury, then there would be enough material for an epic length movie, but the film looks at the group and lead singer in equal measure.
The performances are all great but naturally the stand out is Rami Malek as Freddie. Hard to believe that at one stage Sacha Baron Cohen was shortlisted for the role. I know that there is a lot of debate as to how much of the singing Rami actually does, but performance wise he cannot be faulted, he really does bring Freddie back to life.

As the film builds to its finale, you listen to the great lyrics, and seeing Rami as Freddie, and you see this showstopping performer on stage, and its just gets one thinking of what a great loss his passing at such a young age.

It really is a kind of magic.....9 out of 10

"Hunter Killer"

I'm not sure whether I am missing something, but having read some of the reviews of the latest thriller, I feel I may have been watching a different film. Millennium films and Gerard Butler did work on the truly dire "London Has Fallen", now maybe some of those Critics have gotten rather snobby and just have a grudge against the Creative team.
Having watched "Bad Times at The El Royale" last week, which disappeared from my local Cinema after just one week, it is like history repeating itself, as it is the same scenario with "Hunter Killer" but whilst I could understand why "Bad Times" left quite quick, I am baffled as to why with this Submarine thriller.

As US Sub is tracking a Russian Sub. An explosion occurs on the Soviet vessel, made to have us think it was attacked by the US Sub, and then seconds later the US Sub is torpedoed.
A sub is found that is within range and can investigate what has happened. Newly installed Sub Captain Gerard Butler and his Crew venture to Russain waters to uncover the attack on the US Sub.
Meanwhile above the Russian waters, things are afoot, as the Russian Minister of Defence is plotting a coup to overthrow the President. Clearly the aim is to start something along the lines of World War III.

Capt Joe Glass (Butler) has his Crew arrive at the site of the two Submarine wrecks and discover that the explosion on the Russian Sub was from within, and that the attack on the US Sub was unjustified. Remarkably they find three survivors from the Russian Sub, and despite the protestations and glares of most of his crew he gives them sanctuary. It proves to be a master stroke as the Russian Captain's knowledge will become invaluable later.

Situations escalate, tempers flare, and lives are at risk. The two Submarine Captains, both veterans at what they do, come to realise what is at stake, and work together so that the Sub can liaise with the Covert Ops Team, and get the Russian President away from the mad Defence Minister.

The events of the Coup at he Russian Naval Base are bing relayed back to the US authorities by means of a covert team working on the ground. They get a revised mission which is to rescue the Russian President and get him on board the USS Tampa Bay.

I have always enjoyed Submarine films, it is that sense of confinement which really heightens the tnesion. just rmember great films like "Crimson Tide", "The Abyss", "The Hunt for Red October", "Down Periscope"....hmmm, maybe not that last one.
The film brilliantly combines some great action scenes on the ground with the team led by Toby Stephens, and some tense drama under the water, and some especially scenes between Gerard Butler and Michael Nyqvist as the Sub Captains. It makes for great viewing seeing the two of them on screen together. 

I was more than pleasantly surprised by this excellent thriller. The only weak link are the scenes in America with the likes of Gary Oldman and Common, and a fairly lacklustre female US President. Where's Hillary when you want her??
A great low key performance from Butler, and a fitting tribute to the late Michael Nyqvist...8 out of 10

"Bad Times At The El Royale"

During recent visits to the Cinema, I have seen the trailer for this new release a number of times, and each time it has left me with a sense of looking forward to seeing it. My need to see the film was sped up, when it became apparent that it would be leaving my local Cineworld after just one week. This was not a good sign......

We start at the infamous hotel where we see a suitcase being buried in one of the rooms. Jump forward ten years and we are back at the hotel as a group of varied Customers arrive all looking for a room at the El Royale. The hotel is split right down the middle as the State line goes right through the Centre of the hotel, so they can either stay in the California or Nevada side.
It is clear from the off that all the new residents of the El Royale have secrets, and by the looks of it, so do the staff.

Events all come to a head with the arrival of Cult leader Chris Hemsworth, and there is a big showdown in the hotels Foyer.
What struck me is that it seemed to echo the far superior "Pulp Fiction", in that there is a group of varying characters, once introduced the timelines jump around and from different perspectives. And despite both films having a similar running time, just under two and a half hours, where with "Pulp Fiction" the time just flies, with "Bad Times" it does rather drag, and it could quite easily have had a good 20 - 30 minutes shaved off.

There was some distracting sights in the film, most notably the following:-

I suppose it could be classed as some form of compensation for a lacklustre film.....6 out of 10

"Fahrenheit 11/9"

Out there amongst the masses, there are fans of Film-maker Michael Moore, and there are his haters too. Over the years, Moore has made a variety of insightful documentaries, whether looking at the decline of his Home town of Flint Michigan, or America's ridiculous obsession with Guns, to Health Care, and the lack there of, and of course in "Fahrenheit 9/11" he looks at President Bush, and his time in The White House.
So, I guess in a way, this is something of a sequel, the only thing is we have a change in the lead. We have gone from President Bush to Donald Trump.

Anyone who has seen the former film will get a sense of deja vu when watching F11/9, as it opens in exactly the same way that the earlier film did. Was it all a dream? It takes a fascinating opening look at that election of 2016. Seeing the comparisons between the Democrats and Republicans as the evenings events unfold was quite something.
There are also some startling, I guiess you'd call them claims, made by Moore, and his close relationship with a particular family member.
The film tries to explain how Trump became the 45th US President, and it looks at the Governor of Michigan, and from there the film looks at a health issue in Flint involving polluted drinking water. From here we hear very little about Trump, and its more about the lack of care and help that the people of Flint received. It is very much a film of two halves, in fact the story of Rick Snyder, Governor of Michigan and the whole Flint health problems could have been a seperate film in its own right.
Moore evens take a swing at Presidents Clinton & Obama, so no-one is out of range.

With a style similar to that of F9/11, the film looks at the issues raised with a mix of clips, interviews and is both shocking, powerful and insightful. Forgive the expression but it does make one wonder how America got so fucked up.
A well made film, though not quite as good as it predecessor, and I would have liked a little more on Donald J. Trump, and possible links to a Country renowned for Vodka and the Cold War.

Moore doing what Moore does best......8 out of 10

"A Star Is Born"

I have to admit my failings as a film fan with regard to this new release in that I thought that this was the second remake. I naturally knew of both the Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand starring movies, but I was not aware that these too were both remakes and that the original film came out way back in 1937.

There has been a lot of talk about this movie. There is much gushing from the Critics about every aspect of the film, and the audiences also are flocking to see the film in high numbers.
It sees the Directorial debut of lead Actor Bradley Cooper, and although not her first time on the big screen, I guess you could say that this is the first major starring role for lead actress Lady Gaga.

Looking at the time line, it would seem that "A Star is Born" is revisted every 20 to 30 years, and this time round we have Bradley Cooper as Jackson Maine, a Country & Western star, still popular and regularly on tour, and all this despite a great love for alcohol, and definitely too much of it. Coming off stage and in serious need of a drink, he finds himself in a Drag bar, and whilst whetting his whistle, on stage comes Ally, a young woman, popular with the clientele, and as she performs, it lights a spark in Jackson.
They start spending time together, and there is a real chemistry between them. During one of his concerts, she has a Backstage pass, and despite her belief that she is not talented, he manages to get her to come on stage with him, and perform one of her own songs. Terrified, she overcomes her insecurities, and gives a blinding performance in a duet with Jackson.
And that is where everything changes.

Given the technological World we live in, it is only natural that someone films her performance with their mobile and said video ends up on YouTube.
Naturally record Producers coming knocking at her door.
For want of a better phrase, it is the old rags to riches story, where the performing veteran takes a back seat as this young and very talented lady becomes a really huge star. Her Career and his drinking lead to a truly embarrassing moment, and one does wonder if her time in the limelight has come crashing to an end.

Yes, it is as good as people say, me included.
A story that has been done many times, but given new blood with great performances especially from the two leads, but also amazing songs, performed again by the two main leads.
Bradley Cooper is great as the whisky drinking Jackson Maine. But the real star, probably quite aptly is Lady Gaga who just truly shines as Ally. Whether acting or performing her own songs, she really is exceptional, and it will be interesting to see if she is shortlisted for an Academy Award come January.
Bradley Cooper does however excel in the Directors Chair, he directs the film with a look and style that gives the impression that he has been directing for years. He is a natural. One wonders whether he has been picking up tips from some of the greats that he has been directed by, style wise most notably Clint Eastwood.

One definitely to watch.......9 out of 10

"First Man"

One of the major marketing aspects of this film, is that if watched the right way, for example on IMAX, this will be as close as some will ever get to being in a rocket or landing on the moon.

The Director and lead actor of Oscar winning movie "La La Land" are reunited, as they tell the story of Neil Armstrong and his mission to be the first on the moon. The film opens in spectacular style as we find our astronaut in a test flight, and having to make a crash landing on Earth. This sees him getting grounded. Frustrated he wonders if his lunar dreams will be realised.
Obviously we all know how the story ends, but this film documents the journey made, the costs both financially and in lives lost.

There are aspects of the film that are top notch, for example the recreation of the 1960's, the sound effects and editing, and the visual effects most notably used with the various craft taking off and their journey into space.

As I mentioned much has been made of the use of IMAX cameras during the making of this film. For me one thing is clear.
Director Christopher Nolan knows how to use an IMAX camera.
Director Damien Chazelle does not know how to use an IMAX camera.
If you are going to show one of your cast members, then it is rather unwise to do a rather extreme close-up especially on the IMAX format, and given the size of the screen that the imagery will be shown on. There are other times when footage is shown blurred. I would really pity any poor sod who sits too close to the screen, unaware of what they are going to see, this could quite easily induce motion sickness.

Despite being the leading man, I'm afraid that Ryan Gosling does not get the best opportunity to flex his acting muscles. Very little demand is made of him as an actor, probably the main time is when Neil is coping, as best he can, with the loss of his daughter. I do think that Claire Foy fairs better as his Wife, Janet.

It was a shame to walk away from this film feeling a little disappointed. But alas that was the case. It was a good film but not the great movie that I had hoped for.......7 out of 10.

"Mile 22" - preview screening

In the battlefield, when the diplomatic channels break down, and when the Military option has failed, prepare to be introduced to the latest offensive....Overwatch.
They are a covert Team who deal with any number of global threats, whether taking down Russian Terror cells operating in the US, or trying to track 9 lbs of radioactive Isotope, in the wrong hands it could level 6 major Cities.
Whilst working out of South Asia, at the US Embassy, a local Police official presents himself at the main gates, and says that he can provide information as to the missing substance. For safe passage to the US, he will reveal what he knows, but can he be trusted?  Is his intelligence legitimate?

Heading the team in the field is a very higly strung James Silva (Mark Wahlberg), and running things behind the scenes is Bishop (John Malkovich). The local Authorities arrive en masse to reacquire their local boy, before he can reveal any sensitive information. When a kill order fails, the Overwatch team realise that they need to get him out the Country as soon as.
Bishop arranges for a Military plane to land at a rendezous point, and fly him to safety. All Silva and the team have to do is deliver him to the pick up point, some 22 miles away. Easy???  Well it would be if it were not for a team of Shooters from the South Asian authorities out to do everything they can to stop them.

So the rest of the film is the US Overwatch team playing Cat & Mouse with the South Asians. It plays out well on screen, there is a great car and bike chase which is well shot. There is also a fast paced fight in a Cafe, however the problem with this action scene is that the photography is too in your face, and the appalling editing means there is barely half a second of footage on screen before the Editor cuts to another shot, and so on. I doubt even if you were sat on the back row of the Cinema, that it would make any difference.
But this is not a run of the mill action film, as all it most definitely not as it seems. And the film builds to a great conclusion.

Wahlberg is as reliable as ever, and Malkovich is a tad more sedate than usual. This is another great team effort, especially that Wahlberg and Director Peter Berg previously worked together on both "Lone Survivor" and "Patriot's Day". 

Had the photography and Editing been more professionally done, then the score would have been higher, so for that......7 out of 10

"Searching"

This latest thriller continues the trend of all the footage being done as either webcam / Skype or online news reels etc. And rather unusually it all works really well. All too often with this type of film, a protagonist has to come up with some ludicrous reason as to why they armed with a camcorder 24/7, but by using more social media and home made videos, it works, and it is really effective.

In the film we get introduced to David Kim and his Daughter Margot. His relationship with his Daughter strengthened since the passing of David's wife. This is well documented in the use of looking back at home videos etc. Margot is a lovely Daughter, popular at Class, goes to Piano lessons, a real model Child, apart from lacking in doing chores at home.

Then every Parents nightmare arrives, and after an evening out at a study class, Margot does not come home. David contacts her friends but no-one knows where she is. As panic starts to set in, the Police are contacted. David is assigned an officer who is in charge of his Daughters disappearance. In a role departure, we see Debra Messing (Will & Grace) as the Officer charged with finding the missing student. She advises David to try and find out as much information about his Daughter and her friends from her online usage.
The more that David finds out about his Daughter, the more he realises that they were not as close as he first thought.

Ultimately the film belongs to John Cho, especially as we see his desperation to get any information that will reunite him with his missing Daughter. He starts to fall apart as his search seems to get him nowhere.
Debra Messing is also really good as the assigned Officer helping in the search. Nice to see her in a dramatic role.

This is the feature film debut from Director and Co-Writer Annesh Chaganty.And judging by what I have seen with this first film, he has a remarkable future in front of him.
During the trailer, there was one critic comment that said that the film was worthy of Hitchcock. Now that is some bold statement to make, but it is tense, and does have some wonderful OMG moments.

For the style of the film, the tension, and John Cho's great performance.......9 out of 10

"The Happytime Murders"

Anyone who has grown up watching beloved characters like 'Kermit', 'Miss. Piggy', 'Big Bird' or Oscar the Grouch may be completely outraged by this new comedy, or you could be of the same opinion as me, and absolutely love it.

The film is set in world where puppets and people live together.
We get introduced to Private Detective Phil Philips, who is working on a case but ends up getting involved in a mass shooting in a Porno store. He ends up working with his former Police Partner to try and figure why the stars of a 90's kids show are being bumped off. Hostilities rise up between the Cop and Private Dick, and Melissa McCarthy is well matched to take on anything coming her way, whether warm blooded or hand stitched.

It's a great concept, and the story works well. The puppets are brilliantly done, there is a nice little video during the end credits which gives insight into how they were brought to life.
The best way to describe it is it is like watching "Sesame Street" but an after 10pm special, so there are no holds barred, and thats definitely the case here.

Despite the mauling that some critics have given it, if you go in knowing what to expect, then like me you will find it to be highly entertaining, laugh out loud comedy.....7 out of 10

"King of Thieves" - preview screening

One almost feels like this story revolving around the Hatton Garden Diamond job by a group of more mature thieves has been done to death already. Don't quote me but I believe that this is at least the third production involving this storyline. I guess that what gives this one the edge is the very top notch British acting talent involved. Any Director would say goodbye to some serious anatomy parts just to get one or two of these actors involved, let alone having 5 of the very best.  For those of you who may have been blissfully unaware of what happened, basically a group of senior aged thieves planned a robbery in the famed Hatton Garden area of London during the Easter Bank Holiday. There will be no staff to cause distress to, and the area will be deserted and in theory no one will realise what has been done til everyone is back at work the following Tuesday. The ideal opportunity.

Sir Michael Caine plays Billy, the brains behind the scheme. And he assembles a motley crew to help in the caper, all with their own skills and personalities, and as mentioned, bringing these characters to life is some of the very best British acting talent.
It is hard to say what kind of film it is trying to be, whether biopic, comedy or drama, all these boxes seem to get ticked. And unfortunately it means that the film is a little bit all over the place.

Sir Michael Caine and Ray Winstone are playing characters that we have seen them play before, and in fairness, in far superior films, but there is still much to enjoy about "King of Thieves", most notably Jim Broadbent in something of a departure role. And Tom Courtenay is highly entertaining as a gang member with a hearing problem.

There is a riotously funny highlight of the film and it involves the introduction of Michael Gambon's fence character, and Sir Michael Caine in bewilderment.

Seeing the cast together is the main reason that many will enjoy this film, and rightly so, but it could have been a real great, up there with that other Ray Winstone masterpiece "Sexy Beast"....6 out of 10

"Crazy Rich Asians" - preview screening

Whilst watching this preview, all that kept going through my head was John Hughes. And that is in no way a bad thing. When you look at some of the great films that he has been responsible for, whether as Writer, Director or both, it is a library of films to be very proud.

The premise is that handsome young Asian has the woman of his dreams in his life, and he feels it is now time to take the next step, and introduce her to his family. There is however one small fly in the ointment. His family are to Asia, what John Getty was to oil in America. They are seriously wealthy and live a very lavish lifestyle. All of this information he has kept from his Girlfriend.
So she suspects all in not as it seems when they board the plane and finds that they are in 
the bees knees of travelling style, and the pieces of the puzzle start to fit together.

There is also an over-bearing mother, wonderfully played by Michelle Yeoh, and one doubts if anyone would be good enough for her soon, so let battle commence between Mother and potential new Daughter in law.

Its nicely played out, but I would not say it is laugh out loud funny, but still entertaining none the less. 6 out of 10

"The Equalizer 2"

Problem Solver Robert McCall is back.
I always thought that this was something of a departure role for lead actor Denzel Washington, but the first film worked incredibly well, in fact my one regret was that I never got round to seeing it at the Cinema, so naturally this was something I was very keen to rectify with the sequel. In fact I have been wracking my brains as to whether Mr.Washington has done a sequel before, and without consulting the oracle that is IMDb, I cannot think of one.

McCall is reunited with one of his former work colleagues. And they enjoy catching up, but all too soon said colleague is off to Europe to investigate an apparent suicide, but there are suspicions of foul play. And sure enough, McCall soon finds himself investigating her death, which may or may not be a robbery gone wrong.
There is also a side story involving a tenant in the apartment block where McCall lives. A young lad, who McCall takes under his wing, in the hope that he can veer him away from the Street gang that he is involved with.

It builds to the inevitable big finale, taking place wher McCall and his wife lived, and during a big storm. It is a very well executed sequence.

Overall its a good film, may be not quite as good as the first but still worth watching for the always reliable Mr Washington....7 out of 10

RIP Burt Reynolds

 

I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Burt Reynolds earlier today. I have been a fan for many years. I have fond memories especially of a Saturday evening, when as a family, in the early 1980's we would rent a video cassette, and I remember the likes of "Smokey & The Bandit" and "Sharkey's Machine".

 

I have always admired him, as for me he personifies a real fighter. He has had a lot to contend with throughout his life, some of which was by his own hand, but he has always battled on regardless.

 

I know it wasn't his favourite film, far from it, but I just love watching "The Cannonball Run" and its sequel. Any film fan must get a real kick from watching these two great movies.

 

A more serious Reynolds can be seen in great movies like the classic "Deliverance" and his Oscar nominated role in "Boogie Nights".

I saw an interview he gave with Piers Morgan for "Life Stories"...it was insightful and at times very moving.

 

I for one was over the moon when I heard that he had been cast in the latest film from Writer / Director Quentin Tarantino. It is such a crying shame that he did not get the chance to shoot any scenes for what would have been another great and memorable performance.

 

A couple of months ago I started to read "But Enough About Me". I do enjoy reading autobiographies, especially ones about the movie business. I can honestly this has to be one of the very best, and I can think of no better way to praise him, and his life, than to recommend reading this phenomenal book. Trust me, you will not be able to put it down.

 

Thanks for the ride Burt.......rest in peace.

"The Children Act"

The above poster was what attracted to me to this film.There are certain stars who simply seeing their name on a Cinema Poster is enough to get me to buy a ticket, and Emma Thompson is most certainly one of them. Time and time again she has delivered top notch performances, and so it was a guarantee to find me watching "The Children Act" despite not having a clue as to what it was about.

The film is in two halves, the first a judicial drama, as we find Ms. Thompson playing a Judge, who is presiding over two high profile cases. There is a lot of relevance to some equally high profile cases that have been in the news of late. And it does give one a lot to think about, and gives a fascinating insight into how and why these decisions are reached.
The second half of the film is more of an emotional drama as Thompson's Judge must deal with the repercussions of her actions, following on from a judgement that she has given. In one such case a Child's parents are trying to stop a Hospital from allowing potential saving treatment for their Son who is seriously ill with leukemia. Part of the treament, which could prolong his life, involves a blood transfusion and, unfortunately both the Parents and the 17 year boy are Jehovah's Witnesses. The Judge must make a diffcult decision between wanting to respect the religious beliefs but also in respect of health, what is best for the Boy.

I will not go on any further regarding the plot is it will unfair to reveal what happens.
But safe to say that this is a really compelling drama.
Having seen some recent high profile cases in the news, regarding Parents of babies wanting to take them abroad to try alternative treatment, and the Hospital ruling it would not be in the best interest of the baby, this is firmly in the mind when watching this film. Seeing things from the perspective of the Judge, it really is fascinating.
The second half is equally strong, as we follow Judge Maye, both struggling to keep her marriage together and dealing with the aftermath of a ruling she has given. I was simply glued to the screen.

It is hardly a surprise that the film is as brilliant as it is. Directing we have Richard Eyre, the man responsible for "Notes on a Scandal" and "Iris". Writing the Screenplay is acclaimed novelist Ian McEwan, adapting his own novel, and there is a dazzling cast. from Stanley Tucci, to Jason Watkins, in a scene stealing performance as Maye's Secretary / assistant.
But ultimately the film belongs to Fionn Whitehead and especially to Emma Thompson. Anyone who has seen either "In The Name of the Father" or "The Remains of the Day", and thought she was excellent, well, this is Emma at her very best.

A second viewing is a given.......great stories like this are why we go to the Cinema. I can think of no other score but as follows.....10 out of 10

"Ant-Man And The Wasp"

I have to admit that the first "Ant-Man" film did not exactly wow me. I thought that it was merely average. But this is sequel is far superior, and highly enjoyable,

We meet the team after events of the last two years. Lang is under house arrest for his involvement helping Captain America in Germany. Dr. Hank Pym and his Daughter Hope are working on trying to retrieve Pym's wife Janet who has been trappeed in the Sub Atomic quatnum realm ever since stopping a Russian missile from reeking havoc.
Also interested in the quantum experiment is a mysterious ghost figure. What are their intentions?

The opening scenes with a young Michael Douglas are excellent. It is really outstanding how this is achieved, and if I'm honest I do not want to know how it is done. But someone, somewhere is really working some creative magic.
As one would expect with Marvel there are some excellent action scenes, but with a Marvel spin, and given the sizes that the two title characters can shrink and expand to there is a lot of humour to be had, especially from seeing a rather large Pez or Salt jar being used to great effect.
The action is well photographed, and not in your face, and likewise the editing is equally well done.
And keeping with the humour, there is a fair bit of it from Luis and his Security Consultant team, the X-Cons.

The chemistry between Rudd and Lilly is excellent, and they make a great duo. Michael Douglas is excellent again as Pym, and nice to see Pfeiffer as his wife Janet.

Much improved on the original, and very entertaining.... 7 out of 10

PS - Yes there is a mid way end credit sequence (DO NOT MISS), but the very end one is not worth staying for

"Mission: Impossible - Fallout"

The Mission: Impossible films have been going for over 20 years now, and this is the sixth film in the series. Do either the franchise or its lead actor Tom Cruise show any signs of slowing down?
Most definitely not.

There has been a lot of hype with regard to the major stunt work and action sequences that Cruise has been involved in. It does make one wonder how nervous the Insurance Company executives must have been?

After the Capture of Soloman Lane, the IMF team are trying to retrieve 3 cores of plutonium, which are meant for the hands of 'The Apostles', the remaining remnants of Lane's group. Alas things do not go to plan. The plutonium is still out there, and The Apostles are hoping to deal with the mysterious terrorist John Lark, who aims to cause anarchy, as most terrorists do. His identity remains a secret, though he has inside information on the goings on at both IMF and the CIA, could it be one of the IMF team?

Rather than slowing down, the gauntlet has been well and truly thrown as to how far action sequences can be taken, especially with the involvement of the leading man. A lot has been about this in the press, especially after the injury sustained by Cruise during a rooftop jump in London. The action sequences are some of the best that have ever been put on celluloid. But I felt they also detracted from the plot. It is almost as though the plot has been written around the action, rather than the other way round. The story starts off well, especially with Hunt being investigated as a possible John Lark. The mistrust from the CIA makes for compelling viewing. But the second half the plot gives way to Hunt either on the road, in the air, or on a mountain edge. All great sequences, but what of the Apostles? Are they being saved for the inevitable MI7?

The cast are all as reliable as ever Some are hailing this the best Mission: Impossible film. I would not go that far. There has been better. And for anyone planning to watch it on the IMAX...save your money, I cannot for the life of me fathom out why the film was shot in 3D. It is a truly wasted format, and it adds nothing to the film. It would have been far better on the IMAX in the traditional 2D format.

Although for me it is not the be all and end all of action movies, it is still worth watching.....7 out of 10

"Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again"

I have just had to fish out the blu ray of the original film, because according to IMDb, it has been a decade since that Global Smash hit film came out. I was gobsmacked, and did seriously doubt the reliability of the information. More fool me, as it really has been 10 years. Where has that time gone to?

I for one was squealing like a nutter when I heard that there was going to be a sequel to one of my all time favourite films. I saw the original a staggering 6 times at the Cinema, a record that stayed for 4 years, until the release of "Skyfall".

So has the passing of time generated a sequel worthy to follow in the footsteps of such a beloved film?
The simple answer is no. I was in a state of shock after only 20 minutes. It is difficult to discuss my condition without giving away a major plotline. Yet the film concerns Sophie, and her wanting to have a Grand re-opening of the refurbished Bella Donna Hotel. As events unfold, we also journey back in time to how Donna (Meryl Streep) met the three Fathers who were responsible for Sophie.
The gods seem to be conspiring against Sophie and her big night. Two of her three Fathers are unable to attend, and Nature is venting its fury. And on top of that, she is expecting.

What made the first film such a success, other than the Music of Abba, can be summed up in two words - "Feel Good", and that is sadly lacking in this sequel. I felt quite deflated after 15 or so minutes. The idea of going into the past worked to a degree. Lily James was good as a young Donna. I thought that both Jeremy Irvine and Josh Dylan were great as the young Sam and Bill, and it has to be said very pleasing on the eye. Hugh Skinner as the young Harry was merely ok.
As well as the lack of the feel good factor, there was much humour missing from the film. Barely a chuckle was had throughout the whole 2 hours.

And another great shame is that even a Super Group like ABBA have some dodgy songs in their back catalogue, and as so many of their hits were used in the original film, we are subjected to lesser ABBA songs in this sequel. Even the big dance numbers or reusing of previous songs all seem to lack any sparkle.

It isn't all doom and gloom though....fear not. There is some saving grace, mainly from the godess that is Cher, who is simply dazzling as Great Grandma to be  'Ruby'. I loved her duet with Andy Garcia, who appears as Hotel Manager 'Senor Cienfuegos'.

It's Mamma Mia!! but maybe not as you were expecting.

Simply put, it was disappointing.......6 out of 10  (and that's mainly for Cher)

"Hotel Artemis"

Yes I'm back. I have not a Film Review for a considerable amount of time, and the second of these latest two reviews was what inspired me to start again. Apologies for being away for so long, but down to business.

The concept of "Hotel Artemis" intrigued me, and made for a must see film, especially given that it stars both Jodie Foster and Jeff Goldblum. Set 10 years in the future, in Los Angeles during a Riot, we find the Hotel Artemis is taking a lot of bookings....but not all is as it seems. For the Hotel is actually a front, a cover concealing that it is actually an exclusive Hospital where the criminally injured can go and get their gunshot wounds healed etc, and no questions asked. Just pay your membership, obey the rules, and all is peachy.
We get introduced to some fascinating characters, most of whom have secrets, including Nurse, who is the medical charge on duty. Despite the Riot, it's just a normal Wednesday at the Hotel, that is until the Crime Boss of Los Angeles, and Owner of the Hotel Hospital, The Wolf King, turns up in need of some medical assistance. This is when the fun really begins.

The plays along quite nicely, the characters all well fleshed out, and well played. Minor quibbles are Jeff Goldblum is given very little screen time, despite a wonderful opening. There isn't quite the big finale that one might expect from a film like this.
Jodie Foster is as reliable as ever, in a role that is something of a departure for her. Anything that gives the Oscar winner screen time gets a thumbs up from me.

The best way I can think to describe the film is imagine a medical action drama with shades of "Escape from New York" and "Assault on Precinct 13". Had this been released 35 years ago, then it would almost certainly have had John Carpenter's name attached.

Enjoyable enough......7 out of 10

The 90th Annual Academy Awards - My Predictions

With just a couple of days to go, the excitement is building as we get ready to celebrate all that is great in the Film World, with the arrival of the 90th Annual Academy Awards.

What a year it has been, in some ways good, and in other ways...well...that's another story.
This past year cinematically has been much improved, and I have seen my Cinema attendance increase, surely a sign that things are getting better with the quality of films. There is quite a mixed bag of movies nominated this year. And as usual I am going to concentrate on the main 8 categories:-

Best Original Screenplay
Best Screenplay Based On Material Previously Produced or Published
Best Actor in A Supprting Role
Best Actress in A Supporting Role
Best Actor In a Leading Role
Best Actress In A Leading Role
Best Director
Best Picture

These 8 categories have garnered 44 nominations, and I have managed to see 40 of them, so not bad going.
As ever, my list will be of who I think will win, and who I would ideally like to see win.

Best Original Screenplay

This is easy as my Prediction and choice of Winner are the same. I think that Martin McDonagh will be victorious for his excellent screenplay for....









 Best Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published

Although there are a couple of films which could throw a spanner in the works, my choice and also the Winner I think will be James Ivory for his stunning adaptation of......






Best Actor in A Supporting Role

I think that Sam Rockwell will win for his brilliant portrayal of a racist cop.
I have no problem with Sam winning but I'd equally like to see his co-star Woody Harrelson win for playing the local Sheriff or even Richard Jenkins for his lovely performance in "The Shape of Water"



Best Actress in A Supporting Role

Again this is an easy one to call. Anyone who has ever watched "The West Wing" will marvel at Allison Janney's transformation into the foul mouthed Mum from hell in "I, Tonya" and this is why she will Win the Oscar, and rightly so








Best Actor in A Leading Role

If ever there was a certainty, then it has to be Gary Oldman for his tour de force performance as Winston Churchill in "Darkest Hour"





 

If Mr Oldman had not been nominated then I would like to think that the very excellent Timothee Charlamet would be in with a shout for his stunning performance in "Call Me By Your Name"






Best Actress in A Leading Role

As with all the Acting Awards this year, I think it is safe to say there will be very few surprises. In fact all are pretty much set in stone.
A firm for some time now, Frances McDormand will bag her second Oscar for playing the tough as nails, no nonsense Mom Mildred Hayes in "Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri"




Best Director

Don't get me started on the fact that Martin McDonagh has not been nominated in this category - TRAVESTY
If one was a conspiracist, then one might think he was left out to pave the way for the man who I think will win, and he is Guillermo Del Toro for "The Shape of Water"

I would certainly be delighted to see Christopher Nolan win for his great work on "Dunkirk", although not the best film of the film, but his triumph at what was put on screen deserves recognition




Best Picture

Despite that there has been a recent backlash against "Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri", I still think it will reign supreme at the Academy Awards and win Best Picture.

If there is going to be a repeat of what happened two years ago when "Spotlight" robbed "The Revenant" of a Best Picture Oscar, then the film that will steal "Three Billboards" thunder will be "The Shape of Water"

In an ideal world, I would love to see "Call Me By Your Name" win Best Picture. From start to finish it was a delight to watch. A wonderful screenplay from James Ivory, great performances ebut especially from Timothee Charlamet and Armie Hammer, and stunning cinematography




So there you have it. Just to recap, the nominees I think will win are:-

Best Original Screenplay - Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri
Best Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published - Call Me By Your Name
Best Actor in A Supporting Role - Sam Rockwell
Best Actress in A Supporting Role - Allison Janney
Best Actor in A Leading Role - Gary Oldman
Best Actress in A Leading Role - Frances McDormand
Best Director - Guillermo Del Toro
Best Picture - Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri

And to just sidestep for a monent, if there is any justice then the Best Cinematography Oscar will go to Roger Deakins for his work on "Blade Runner 2049" not only as it was stunning but also for the fact that he is one of the very best in his field, and he is long overdue for Oscar recognition.

And good luck to Host Jimmy Kimmel, who did a first class job last year, and I for one am delighted to see him back.

Let's hope whoever presents Best Picture, will have the nerve to shout out if something is wrong !!! Lord preserve us should they give the Award to the wrong film.....

Oscar Nominations 2018 - My Thoughts

A little later this year but here are my thoughts on the nominations for the 90th Annual Academy Awards...

BEST PICTURE
Just because the Academy has increased the quote to a maximum of ten movies, does not mean that we have to have a full list, or as in this year, nine.
For me there are a number of films which should not have made the shortlist, and a few omissions, as always.
I have seen all nine of this years nominees, so am well voiced to be critical. For me I would have left out "Phantom Thread", "Lady Bird", at a push "The Shape of Water". All really good films, but one questions whether worthy of a Best Picture nomination.

I must add, that I feel "Get Out" is woefully overrated. Again like the others, it is a good film, cleverly written, but it DOES NOT deserve a Best Picture nomination, or quite a few of its other nominations.
And although there is a lot of love for Aaron Sorkin's "Molly's Game", for me the far superior Jessica Chastain film is "Miss. Sloane", which for me is one of the years best....and not a single nomination.

The only one good thing that having so many nominees in this category does is split the vote mnore, and can lead to an upset, which as a viewer is always exciting....though as with "Spotlight" not always a good choice.

BEST DIRECTOR
I never understand this one. Of late there are more times when the Best Director & Best Picture Oscars go to different films. I know that logic should not factor into the Oscars, silly me for thinking it would, but surely what is voted Best film, then the Director responsible should be rewarded accordingly. However I will also say that this year there would be a fair argument for Christopher Nolan winning Director for his work on "Dunkirk" yet, like many others, feel it is not the best Film. But given how brilliant say "Three Billboards..." is, it is surely a crime that Director Martin McDonagh has not even been nominated. With nine Best Picture nominees, and only five for Director, yes someone is going to lose out. But surely not the Director for the favourite to win Best Picture?
Even if Martin McDonagh had been nominated, I'm sure that Guillermo Del Toro would have won anyway, but that's not the point. There are at least 3 Directors who should not have made the shortlist...Paul Thomas Anderson, Greta Gerwig, and Jordan Peele. Where are the nominees for Joe Wright & Luca Guadagnino?

BEST ACTOR & BEST ACTRESS
Overall I would say that these categories are pretty good. There is the odd exception, and I would have expected a nod to Dame Judi Dench for her stunning work in "Victoria & Abdul" but other than that, its as expected.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR & BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Again as above, these two categories are pretty much as expected. The only thing I have wondered is whether Kevin Spacey would have gotten a nod for his portrayal of John Paul Getty had it not been for the scandal that saw him replaced by Christopher Plummer?


OVERALL
I think this year it is all about ticking boxes, and it SHOULD be about the films, performances and craft technicians who really deserve the recognition.

2017 - "This Year In Film"

Another Cinematic year has come and gone. And how has 2017 faired?

Well  I have to say that I think it has been an excellent year for cinema. I think I can illustrate this no better way than by saying for the first time in 7 years I have been to the Cinema over 100 times in a full year.
That certainly means that a lot of trailers have caught my eye, and gotten me into more screenings this year, but that does not necessarily mean that the quality of the film as a whole has been better.

We will start on a high and look at some of the many films that have really entertained me this year.

Scorsese....Lian Neeson....Andrew Garfield....Adam Driver....A compelling story and stunning photography. 

 A wonderful and welcome return of some richly created characters, brilliantly acted

Mel Gibson shines behind the Camera with a stunning performance from one of this years brightest stars - Andrew Garfield

A great film telling an astonishing story of a group of extraordinary women

(what more do I need to say?)

Denzel & Viola....enough said

Like "Hacksaw Ridge", the year got off to a remarkable start with another powerful true story. January was going to be the month to beat





Here are some more of the amazing movies that have been just a pure delight to watch over the last 12 months

Quite a diverse selection.
A year of great love stories, with Annette Bening on top form as Gloria Grahame, Dame Judi Dench reprising her Oscar nominated role as Queen Victoria, Ashton Saunders excels in "Moonlight", Dev Patel shows the love for his Mother in "Lion" and Armie Hammer and Timothee Chalamet are on Award winning form in "Call Me By Your Name".

As discussed above, the use of true life shines brightest this year, with as mentioned "Lion", "Hacksaw Ridge" & "Hidden Figures" all great films in their own right. But it didn't end there. We also had the great McDonalds story as told in "The Founder", a look at the end of the British reign in India in "Viceroy's House", and India coming to Victorian England and a great friendship between two very different people in "Victoria & Abdul".
Great heroism in "Patriot's Day", and heroics of a different kind as Emma Stone is at the top of her game as Billie Jean King in "Battle of the Sexes".

Having not been a huge fan of the first two 'Thor' films, it was pleasing to see the third film really bring some fun back, and this ranks as one of the most entertaining films of the year.
A long overdue return to form for Writer / Director M.Night Shyamalan with his brilliant thriller "Split", chilling performance from James McAvoy, and what an ending......

But as with all things, there is an opposite, as so there has to be a selection of less pleasing films, and here they are.....I know that there is at least one controversial choice.


Some of the Worst Films of 2017.....

"Manchester By The Sea"....too depressing, and in my opinion Casey Affleck was not the Best Actor, far from it. He should not have even been nominated for an Oscar, let alone have won it.
Several much loved films did not fair to well for me...films like "It Comes At Night" and "Baby Driver".
One of the biggest disappointments of the year was the gritty thriller "The Snowman", which promised so much....it was directed by Tomas Alfredson who directed one of my all time favourite movies - "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy", it had an excellent cast, the likes of Michael Fassbender, Toby Jones, J.K. Simmons, Rebecca Ferguson, Charlotte Gainsbourg and Val Kilmer, and from the trailer looked really good.
Oh dear......oh well, you can't always judge a book by its cover, or in this case, a film from its trailer.

But down to the most important choices, and my favourites of 2017....here we go.....

Although I am awarding Best individual performances, there is one actor I need to single out for being the most prolific and consistently wowing us with one great performance after another, and he is.......

 

Andrew Garfield

Preaching the word of God, in a land where Christianity is outlawed he was dazzling in Martin Scorsese's "Silence"

A great actor playing a truly great hero, Desmond Doss in the powerful and moving drama from Mel Gibson "Hacksaw Ridge"

Another true life story and the life of Robin Cavendish and the many lives he changed in "Breathe"

And although this was a theatrical performance I did get to see it thanks to a National Theatre Live Screening, and this will be the performance that people will be talking about for years, and rest assured come Award season, he will need a well enforced shelf to store all his awards from his performance in "Angels in America"




Here come the big three.....

Best Performance By An Actor in A Leading Role
  
A few quick special mentions, especially to the already mentioned James McAvoy in "Split", the amazing Ewan Bremner, who for me stole the show with his amazing performance in "T2 Trainspotting", Denzel Washington in "Fences", Ali Fazal in "Victoria & Abdul" and Jamie Bell in "Film Stars Don't Die in Liverpool".  Great work from each and every one of them. But there can be only one winner......

 Timothee Charlamet 

He gave a mature and heart breakingly beautiful performance in the love story of the year in "Call Me By Your Name". The scene that everyone talks about is probably one that many may miss as it plays out during the end credits, but from start to finish he conveys the angst of a young man and his journey into love which may or may not be reciprocated


Best Performance By An Actress in A Leading Role

Yes there is still much to be said about Women and the lack of great material, and even more so on equal pay, but if this year is anything to go by then Women are creating some truly outstanding performances.
Natalie Portman was the highpoint of "Jackie", and Emma Stone was good in "La La Land", but Oscar worthy, not for me. 
All three leads of "Hidden Figures" were exemplary. As was Danielle Macdonald in "Patti Cake$". And a firm favourite of mine continues to give a beautiful performance in "Film Stars Don't Die In Liverpool" and she is Annette Bening.

But there can be only one Winner.....or can there???

 

Jessica Chastain     

It's clearly a case of red heads rule. Jessica Chastain has shown her brilliance in great films like "The Help" and "Zero Dark Thirty" but this year it was her performance in "Miss. Sloane" that blew me away. 

Emma Stone

She may have started the year with an Academy Award for her work on "La La Land", and the debate as whether it was deserved will continue, but for me she should be getting an Oscar this year for her work as Billie Jean King in "Battle of the Sexes". 

Best Picture

I have really wrestled over this one. And for me it is bizarre in that there are films that featured in last years Oscars Ceremony and films that will no doubt feature in this years Ceremony. There in lies the problem of having Oscar movies released in the UK between November and March of any given year. 

I would normally always try and have just One Best Picture Winner, and worst case scenario I would have to allow for two or if really pushed then three would be my absolute maximum.

But this year I am torn between four top movies, and given that I cannot choose between them, I am going to have to declare a four way tie. So which are the four top films of 2017?

 

 "Moonlight"

 

"Battle of the Sexes"

 "Miss.  Sloane"

 

"Call Me By Your Name"

I mentioned at the beginning about what a strong year that 2017 has been, and I think that I can give no other better example of this than by the result for Best Picture. To have a four way tie is just plain bonkers but I cannot pick between these four first class films, and I will be proud to have all of them added to my Film collection when they become available on Blu Ray...yes I already have "Moonlight", and "Miss Sloane".

We can only hope that 2018 will be half as good.....Happy viewing