"Romeo and Juliet"

One of the greatest stories of all time, a new adaptation from the Creator of "Downton Abbey", and an all star cast.
And yet somehow it does not work sadly.
The story itself needs little introduction, but for those not familiar with the work of Shakespeare, know that the Capulets and the Montagues are bitter enemies, their families constantly at war with one another. But when Romeo and Juliet fall in love, a member from each family, they hope to end the bitter feud. But the Gods seem to conspire against the young lovers.

I think in fairness it may not be totally the fault of the film-makers, in that I was constantly thinking of "William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet", directed by Baz Luhrmann, a film I really admire. And it was difficult not to have images from that movie in my head whilst watching this new version.

I know that there has been some hoo ha about Mr. Fellowes and his dumbing down the words of The Bard to make the material more accessible for the audience, as to how much of this is true I do not know.
The cast have mixed fortunes. I may be wrong but it was hard to concentrate on Damian Lewis as he seems to be wearing a truly awful wig, presumably to disguise his shaven head, allowing him to play 'Brody' in "Homeland".
Alas Hailee Steinfeld just did not work for me as 'Juliet'. She seemed unable to convey any of the main qualtities that associates with the character.
There are some highpoints. As one would expect, Paul Giamatti gives a great performance as 'Father Laurence', and equally the very beautiful Douglas Booth is excellent as 'Romeo'.
But there is one cast member who towers above all others, and he is 17 year old Kodi Smith-McPhee as 'Benvolio', what a remarkable performance, so moving, and one you will not forget in a hurry.

It was an ok production, and there is much to enjoy, but it needed that certain something extra....6 out of 10

"Spike Island"

No before I start this review, in fairness to the film makers and the cast and crew, I had not planned to see this film. I will not bore you with the details but I ended up at the cinema, and wanted to make use of the time and the unexpected return journey and so decided to watch a film, and the only option was "Spike Island" so despite knowing nothing about it, I got a ticket.

The film is a coming of age, meets road movie, as a gang of five lads aim to get to their dream destination, and see The Stone Roses perform at Spike Island. They all have their own home problems, whether it be parental beatings, or watching a parent slowly slip away or unrequited love.
They have also formed their own group, and are determined to get their music to the legendary group, and hopefully get some help on the road to stardom.

For anyone who has a love or appreciation of the band, I am sure that they will love this movie. I have to say that the music, and the whole Manchester scene thing did not appeal to me at all, and had I known in advance, I would not have gone to see the film.
That being said, it was clearly made with a passion, and there is heart at the centre of the film.Lead actor Elliott Tittensor gives a good performance as the young band front man. And the rest of the young cast also do a decent job. One comment, Rob James Collier has to be wearing one of the worst moustaches seen in film history.

Not for me, but music fans will love it................4 out of 10