Billy's Balloon

Hey everyone...

I just thought you all need to see this. Not only is it the funniest animation I've seen in a long time, it also has a strong and disturbing message... against balloons...

MOVIE REVIEW : The Day the Earth Stood Still

THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL

Directed by Scott Derrikson
Starring Keanu Reeves and Jennifer Connelly


PLOT

A remake of the 1951 classic sci-fi film about an alien visitor and his giant robot counterpart who visit Earth.

WHAT I THOUGHT

I'd heard bad things about this film. I thought the trailers looked pretty awesome though, and had heard from a friend that it was worth watching... so I did.

I don't know why this movie is getting such negative reactions. I'll admit the film is not groundbreaking in anyway, via plot or CG or whatever. But it did keep me entertained through its entire length, which is all I ask of a film.

In my previous review of Defiance... I spoke about how the film was too slow, and boring in parts. This film was the exact opposite. The film starts off on a run, and doesn't really stop till the end. I did enjoy the plot, especially the character of Klaatu (Keanu Reeves).

The acting was what you'd expect. Keanu Reeves fit the role perfectly because of his wooden performance. As is the case with some of his films, this is what he does best. Jennifer Connelly is great as always, and still hot as ever. Jaden Smith wasn't amazing, mainly because he played such an annoying role. John Cleese however was seriously underused!!!

Still, I enjoyed this film and can recommend it to sci-fi fans. I haven't seen the original, so I can't compare... but the plot was good, the CG did it's job... and I had a good time.

BEST MOMENT

The rocket powered start.

MY RATING

**********

MOVIE REVIEW : Defiance

DEFIANCE

Directed by Edward Zwick
Starring Daniel Craig and Liev Schreiber


PLOT

Four Jewish brothers in Nazi-occupied Eastern Europe escape into the Belarussian forests, where they join Russian resistance fighters and endeavor to build a village in order to protect themselves and about 1,000 Jewish non-combatants.

WHAT I THOUGHT

I was looking forward to this film. I loved the director's last two films - The Last Samurai and Blood Diamond, and I am of course a huge fan of Daniel Craig. The film wasn't as good as I was hoping though.

There were some brilliant moments, most of them being battle scenes (this is what the Director does best!)... but at points the story just seemed far too slow. I liked a lot of the scenes in the camp, but it just dragged on...

The film can be quite shocking though. Some of the deaths are truly brutal. There are also very good performances all around. I love James Newton Howard, but his music here was down so low that I could barely here it! It got nominated for an Oscar... so the Director really should have shown it off more!

One feature I did really like was showing some REAL photos of the characters at the end, emphasising that this is a true story. A very nice touch I must say.

I don't really have much else to say. It is a good film. It just seems very slow, with not a lot happening most of the time. It's just about a group of people trying to survive. It's still worth seeing though for the performances and some of the battle scenes.

BEST MOMENT

A wedding scene that intercuts with a battle scene. Very cleverly edited.

MY RATING

**********

TOP 2D ANIMATED FILMS 10-1

10. THE LION KING (1994) - DISNEY

Directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff

WHY?
For most people - this is their favourite Disney film. I think it is amazing in every single respect - but not as great as everyone makes out. The music is fantastic though... or the visuals... but its the storyline that makes this more powerful than most other Disney films!

BEST MOMENT
The stampede of course!

BEST QUOTE
[Timon and Zazu are cornered by hyenas]
Timon: Please don't eat me.
Pumbaa: Drop 'em!
Banzai: Hey! Who's the pig?
Pumbaa: Are you talkin' to me?
Timon: Uh-oh, they called him a pig.
Pumbaa: Are you talking to *me*?
Timon: Ya shouldn't have done that.
Pumbaa: ARE YOU TALKING TO ME?
Timon: Now they're in for it.
Pumbaa: THEY CALL ME MR. PIG! AHHHH!


9. ANASTASIA (1997) - FOX ANIMATION

Directed by Don Bluth and Gary Goldman

WHY?
I can't put my finger on what it is about this film... but I love it so much. I think it has some of the best, and the widest range of songs in an animated films - but I think the underlying romance in it is the best part to it! It makes it really rewarding at the end because of the chemistry of the two main characters.

BEST MOMENT
Probably the song sequence "Journey to the Past".

BEST QUOTE
Bartok: Master! You're alive?
Rasputin: In a matter of speaking!
[Rasputin's eyeball pops out, Bartok catches it]
Bartok: Whoa, that fell right out there, sir!


8. FANTASIA 2000 (2000) - DISNEY

Directed by lots and lots of people!

WHY?
I thought the first Fantasia was okay... but I really love this one. I think every single piece is incredibly different - some like the Firebird sequence are unbelievably epic, while some pieces like the Pines of Room with the whales are really beautiful, and some are hilariously funny! Something for everyone!

BEST MOMENT
Definately the Firebird sequence for me! I can't wait to see it in High Definition!


7. THE IRON GIANT (1999) - WARNER BROS ANIMATION

Directed by Brad Bird

WHY?
This is one of the greatest sci-fi, and action films of all time - and its an animation. Widely regarded as a masterpiece - it truly is! All the characters drive the piece making it a very emotinal film, while the actual Iron Giant is awesome as he should be!

BEST MOMENT
The whole climax of the film - it's so epic!

BEST QUOTE
Annie Hughes: Would you say grace, please?
[Hogarth sees the Giant's hand in the kitchen]
Hogarth Hughes: Oh my God... Um, uh... oh, my God! We... thank you for the... er, food that mom has put in front of us and *stop!*... uh, the Devil... from doing bad things? And er, get out of here!... Uh, Satan? Go! Go so... that we may live in peace. Amen.
Annie Hughes: Amen. That was... hmm, really unusual, Hogarth.


6. THE PRINCE OF EGYPT (1998) - DREAMWORKS

Directed by Brenda Chapman and Steve Hickner and Simon Wells

WHY?
I still can't get over how epic this film is in scope! It's got all the elements of a true masterpiece - huge setpieces, absolutely amazing music and a truly gripping storyline. You need to see it to experience it.

BEST MOMENT
I'd probably say it's The Burning Bush sequence.

BEST QUOTE
Rameses: Come on, Moses, admit it. You've always looked up to me.
Moses: Yes, but it's not much of a view!


5. THE PAGEMASTER (1994) - FOX ANIMATION

Directed by Pixote Hunt and Joe Johnston

WHY?
Even though some of this film is live acti0n - the majority is animated. It's an amazing film. It makes me so angry that this film isn't loved by audiences more. It has all the elements of an amazing film. Something for everyone... and a great soundtrack. It has so many fantastic homages to books that I can't help but always be drawn into it!

BEST MOMENT
This is a difficult one - it's gotta be the dragon at the end though!

BEST QUOTE
Adventure: Hmm, you know what would make this a happy ending? A kiss.
Horror: Doh, okay.
[the screen goes blank, a smack is heard]
Adventure: I meant from her!
[all three are heard laughing]


4. THE LITTLE MERMAID (1989) - DISNEY

Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker

WHY?
A few years ago, this was my favourite Disney film. It's taken me a while to think about which one actually is... this is still one of my favourites though! Probably mainly because of Sebastian the Crab, but this also has my favourite of all the Disney songs... and great characters too. This film brought Disney back from near death... and needs to be truly respected for what it is.

BEST MOMENT
Kiss the Girl! Easily the best Disney song ever!

BEST QUOTE
Ariel: There he is! Isn't he handsome?
[Scuttle looks at the dog and scratches his neck]
Scuttle: I don't know, he looks kind of hairy and slobbery.
Ariel: No, not that one. The one playing the snarfblatt.


3. HERCULES (1997) - DISNEY

Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker

WHY?
It's now getting to the stage where I really struggled to choose a favourite. Hercules is such a great film filled with amazing sequences, and catchy songs. Phil is wonderful... but Hades is the star here... who really steals the show!

BEST MOMENT
Easily the Hydra fight! How awesome is the CG in that sequence!

BEST QUOTE
Hades: I can't believe this guy. I throw everything I've got at him, and it doesn't even...
[Hades notices Pain is wearing Air-Hercs]
Hades: What... are... those?
Pain: Um, I don't know. I-I thought they looked kinda dashing.
Hades: I've got 24 hours to get rid of this bozo, or the entire scheme I've been setting up for 18 years goes up in smoke,
[begins to shout]
Hades: and you are wearing his merchandise!?
[Hades almost blows up in front of Pain, but stops to see Panic slurping a Hercules drink]
Panic: [chuckling nervously] Thirsty?
[Hades shouts out loud, blows up and the whole city rumbles]


2. ALADDIN (1992) - DISNEY

Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker

WHY?
I can't put my finger on it... but this film does everything so right that its perfect in my eyes. It has all the action, adventure, mystery and comedy you could possibly want in a perfectly formed narrative that drives the story along at a rocket pace always keeping the audience interested! Also has the Genie... voiced to perfection by Robin Williams!

BEST MOMENT
The Cave of Wonders sequence - mystery and action and comedy.

BEST QUOTE
[the Genie and the flying carpet are playing chess]
Genie: So, move.
[the carpet makes a move]
Genie: Hey! That's a good move.
[as Rodney Dangerfield]
Genie: I can't believe it. I'm losin' to a rug.


1. TARZAN (1999) - DISNEY

Directed by Chris Buck and Kevin Lima

WHY?
I remember seeing this film in the cinema. I remember the experience it took me on. I literally finished watching it with a twitch. A twitch that I had just seen something incredible. Whether its the sheer scope, the fantastic music, or the groundbreaking visuals... its all done in a way that I love completely. The film can be quite shocking at times too - and the opening - well, I need say no more! I may go watch it now...

BEST MOMENT
The Two Worlds opening. The best opening to a Disney film ever. One of the best openings of all time.

BEST QUOTE
Terk: What kind of animal are you?
Tantor: You know, I've been thinking lately that Tarzan may be some sub-species of elephant.
Terk: Are you kidding... What are you talking about?
Tantor: I mean, think about it. He enjoys a peanut, I enjoy a peanut...
Terk: He looks nothing like you!

or

Tarzan: OO OO AH EE OOO!

TOP 2D ANIMATED FILMS 20-11

20. THE LION KING 3 (2004) - DISNEY VIDEOS

Directed by Bradley Raymond

WHY?
The only Disney Video film on this list. I really normally hate the direct to video sequels... but the two Lion King sequels were the exceptions for me. Especially this one. I watched it on a rainy day, not expecting anything much. It was great though. The whole of Lion King, but through the eyes of Timon and Pumbaa. It's absolutely hilarious, and definately worth seeing.

BEST MOMENT
How it was all Pumbaa's fault as to why the creatures all bowed at the birth of Simba!

BEST QUOTE
Mom: Everything the light touches... . belongs to someone else!
Timon: Funny, I thought you were going in a whole different direction.


19. TITAN A.E. (2000) - FOX ANIMATION

Directed by Don Bluth and Gary Goldman

WHY?
Truly epic film. Believe it or not, I think it's one of the sci-fi greats... even though it is animation. Some of the visuals are out of this world, with a really great plot too.

BEST MOMENT
A sequence where they try to make their way through the trail of an icey comet.

BEST QUOTE
Akima: You can't call a planet "Bob."
Cale: So now you're the boss. You're the King of Bob.
Akima: Can't we just call it "Earth"?
Cale: No one said you have to live on Bob.
Akima: I'm never calling it that.


18. THE JUNGLE BOOK (1967) - DISNEY

Directed by Wolfgang Reitherman

WHY?
Hate to say this... but the only classic Disney film on this list. Not to say I don't love them, I do... I just prefer the newer ones because I grew up with them. Regardless, this is my favourite of the classics with brilliant animations and songs... probably the peak of Disney at that time.

BEST MOMENT
I'd say its the song "I Wanna Be Like You" and the whole sequence with the Monkey King.

BEST QUOTE
Buzzie: Hey Flaps, So what we were going to do?
Flaps: I don't know, what'cha onwanna do?
Buzzie: Look Flaps, first I say "what were going to do?" then you say "I don't know, what'cha wanna do?" then I say "what we're going to do" then you say what'cha wanna do" let's do something.
Flaps: Ok. What'cha wanna do?


17. MULAN (1998) - DISNEY

Directed by Tony Bancroft and Barry Cook

WHY?
This is actually a very epic film in scope. Some of the battle scenes are awesome, along with great characters and some really cool songs - especially Jackie Chan singing "I'll Make a Man Out of You" on the DVD!

BEST MOMENT
The epic battle on the snow topped hill.

BEST QUOTE
Mulan: [Mulan and Mushu escape back to shore from Yao, Lin and Chin-Po] Boy, that was close.
Mushu: No...
Mushu: [brushes his teeth] That was vile! You owe me big.
[Mushu squirts more toothpaste in his mouth and brushes again]
Mulan: I never want to see a naked man again.
[a big group of naked men run past them, laughing]
Mushu: Hey, don't look at me. I ain't biting no more butts.


16. THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME (1996) - DISNEY

Directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise

WHY?
While not as great as some of the new Disney films... its still pretty awesome indeed! Especially the Sanctuary scene! It's got a really great villain, and a storyline that isn't usual for a Disney film with the hero not getting the girl.

BEST MOMENT
The climax of the film where Quasimodo saves Esmerelda from burning.

BEST QUOTE
Phoebus: You fight almost as well as a man.
Esmeralda: Funny, I was going to say the same thing about you.


15. POCAHONTAS (1995) - DISNEY

Directed by Mike Gabriel and Eric Goldberg

WHY?
I love this film. Even though not entirely true... its still the best adaption of the story. Some of the songs are fantastic, and the animation is top notch. It's also got a huge bunch of voices from Mel Gibson to Christian Bale! And who couldn't love Percy the dog?

BEST MOMENT
John Smith and Pocahontas' first kiss... that gets rudely interrupted by a gun shot!

BEST QUOTE
Grandmother Willow: Come closer, John Smith.
[she inspects him]
Grandmother Willow: He has a good soul. And he's handsome, too.
John Smith: Oh, I like her.
Pocahontas: I knew you would.


14. FERN GULLY: THE LAST RAINFOREST (1992) - FOX ANIMATION

Directed by Bill Kroyer

WHY?
An amazing film in every respect! A lot of people don't know it, but it deserves to have more recognition. It's truly scary... especially the villain - Hexus! But Batty (voiced by Robin Williams) is one of the best characters ever created! It's also got a really powerful message behind it, which most animation films don't.

BEST MOMENT
The rebirth of Hexus around the tree cutting machine!

BEST QUOTE
Batty Koda: Oh sonic interference, what a nightmare... I thought I saw a human...
[sees Zak]
Batty Koda: AH! HUMAN!
[falls from tree]
Crysta: That's a human?
Batty Koda: Yes! Yes! Kill it! Restrain it! Medicate it! Something!
[takes deep breaths]
Batty Koda: Puff up! Puff up! They hate that!


13. AN AMERICAN TAIL: FIEVEL GOES WEST (1991) - UNIVERSAL

Directed by Phil Nibbelink and Simon Wells

WHY?
Far better than the first film - which didn't even make this list. Another Spielberg creation, and probably his best one. This film has some of the Drama of the first one, but injects it with a huge dose of comedy too... which really helps. Tiger is the best thing about this film, and a sequence where he keeps running into more and more dogs had me laughing till my lungs hurt!

BEST MOMENT
Either Tiger fleeing the dogs... or the laaaazy eye!

BEST QUOTE
Wylie Burp: [to Tiger on top of a cliff] Suck in you're paunch, boy.
Tiger: [sucks in his paunch, causing his upper body to look like a balloon]
Wylie Burp: Good. Now saunter on out there one leg in front of the other. Slow and easy.
Tiger: [makes farting noises as he walks along the cliff, but falls off the side and flys around like a deflated balloon]
Tiger: [sitting on the ground] I hurt myself.


12. THE EMPEROR'S NEW GROOVE (2000) - DISNEY

Directed by Mark Dindal

WHY?
I think it's probably the funniest animated film I've ever seen. Mainly due to Kronk. His character is pure genius. The film is amazing though, and in some ways feels completely different to other Disney films - as the humour truly drives the film. The direct to video sequel is also worth checking out - though it's not as good!

BEST MOMENT
The constant chatter between Kronk's shoulder angel and devil.

BEST QUOTE
[Kronk's Shoulder Angel and Devil debate saving Kuzco]
Kronk's Shoulder Devil: Listen up, big guy. I got three good reasons why you should just walk away. Number one. Look at that guy! He's got that sissy stringy music thing.
Kronk's Shoulder Angel: We've been through this. It's a harp, and you know it.
Kronk's Shoulder Devil: Oh, right. That's a harp, and that's a dress.
Kronk's Shoulder Angel: Robe!
Kronk's Shoulder Devil: Reason number two. Look what I can do. Ha-ha, ha!
[does one-armed handstand]
Kronk: But what does that have to do with anything?
Kronk's Shoulder Angel: No, no. He's got a point.


11. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (1991) - DISNEY

Directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise

WHY?
This so nearly got into the top 10 - but it was just knocked out. A motion picture experience indeed. The characters are awesome in this, and really drive the whole piece. And the songs really are as good as everyone makes them out to be. I'd also say it's probably the best animation of any of the new Disney films.

BEST MOMENT
When Belle enters the West Wing for the first time... against the Beast's permission...

BEST QUOTE
Beast: Oh, it's no use. She's so beautiful, and I'm... Well, look at me!
Mrs. Potts: Oh, must help her to see past all that.
Beast: I don't know how.
Mrs. Potts: Well you can start by making yourself more presentable. Straigten up. Try to act like a gentleman.
[Beast stands up straighter]
Lumiere: Ah, yes. When she comes in give her a dashing, debonair smile. Come, come, show me the smile.
[Beast gives a big, forced smile]
Mrs. Potts: Don't frighten the poor girl!

My Mini Oscars!

I was so angry by some of the Oscar decisions this year, I decided to make my own. They probably won't be the same as yours, but remember these are just my personal opinion.

BEST ACTION FILM:

The Dark Knight

RUNNERS UP:
Iron Man
Quantum of Solace

A difficult dcision, but in the end The Dark Knight had to win. It offered action like no other. Especially in Imax. Iron Man and Quantum of Solace also offered fantastic action, but not on the scale of The Dark Knight.

BEST ADVENTURE FILM:
Hellboy II: The Golden Army

RUNNER UP:

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystall Skull

My favourite of all the genres, I was surprised that Indiana Jones 4 wasn't my top one! Even though it wasn't amazing, I still loved it, and some moments truly captured that unique spirit of Indiana Jones. Hellboy II however blew the first film away in every respect, and is still fantastic watching it again!

BEST COMEDY FILM:
Step Brothers

RUNNERS UP:
Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Tropic Thunder

This one was really difficult for me. It's been a good year for comedy. The crown has to go to Step Brothers for me though, its so immature that its right up my street. Great performances from everyone, and many comic moments that I'll never forget.

BEST DRAMA FILM:
Seven Pounds

RUNNERS UP:
Australia
Revolutionary Road

There was no doubt in my mind about this one. I loved Seven Pounds. When I saw it, I knew it was good, but it has stayed with me... and I really want to see it again!!! Australia was also fantastic, purely epic in scope... but Seven Pounds was better.

BEST ANIMATED FILM:
Wall E

RUNNERS UP:
Kung Fu Panda
Horton Hears a Who

This was another easy one to judge. Kung Fu Panda and Horton Hears a Who were both fantastic, but Wall E was one of the most exceptional animated films I've ever seen... not just this year!

BEST THRILLER FILM:
Cloverfield

RUNNER UP:
Eagle Eye

Most people forget that Cloverfield came out in 2008. It did though. And I still absolutely love it. The best cinematic experience of my life, it is still amazing to watch in Blu Ray. I love the monster, and everything about the film is perfect in my eyes.

BEST MAIN ACTOR:
Leonardo DiCaprio - Revolutionary Road

RUNNERS UP:
Hugh Jackman - Australia
Will Smith - Seven Pounds

It does make me angry that none of these actors got an Oscar nomination this year. Especially Leonardo DiCaprio, his performance was as good as, if not better than Kate Winslet's in Revolutionary Road, yet she is getting all the glory. His acting was fantastic in it, as was Hugh Jackman in Australia and Will Smith in Seven Pounds.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR:
Heath Ledger - The Dark Knight

RUNNERS UP:
Brad Pitt - Burn After Reading
Robert Downey Jr - Tropic Thunder

Of course it had to be Heath. One of the greatest performances of all time. I don't even need to explain why. Everyone knows why he is getting every award possible for his version of the Joker. However, nods to Brad Pitt in Burn After Reading, who really was the highlight of the film in my eyes. Also, Robert Downey Jr in Tropic Thunder because he really, really made me think he was black. Really quite amazing.

BEST ACTRESS:
Kate Winslet - Revolutionary Road

RUNNERS UP:
Rosario Dawson - Seven Pounds
Maggie Gyllenhaal - The Dark Knight

I know that I just said Leonardo DiCaprio was better... but Kate Winslet is still absolutely fantastic in Revolutionary Road. The two of them together are what make the film so amazing.

BEST CG:
Hellboy II: The Golden Army

RUNNERS UP:
Iron Man
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian

Another difficult one to judge, as CG is getting better and better all the time. In the end though I chose Hellboy II due to the fact that most of the time there is CG being blended in flawlessly with live action things, making it unlike anything I've seen. Keep at it Del Toro. Bring on The Hobbit!

BEST SOUND DESIGN:
Cloverfield

RUNNERS UP:
The Dark Knight
Wall E

Once again, no competition here. Cloverfield has probably the best sound I've ever heard in a movie so far... and the fact that it didn't get an Oscar nomination makes me so angry! BLAH!!!! The monster's roar is epic, and the constant booms and bangs always keep you on the edge of your seat. The sound design is what makes Cloverfield so good.

BEST SOUNDTRACK:
Seven Pounds

RUNNERS UP:
Wall E
The Happening
Cloverfield

This one surprised me. I was really expecting Wall E to be my top soundtrack of 2008, yet at the very last moment, it was taken away by Seven Pounds. The score really is fantastic, and the one track "Reqiuem" is one of the best tracks I've heard in years. Also, even though the film was poo... James Newton Howard's score for The Happening was still amazing. And even though Cloverfield had no soundtrack at all, the end credits suite is so good that I've not stopped listening to it all year.

TOP FILM OF 2008:
The Dark Knight

RUNNERS UP:
Cloverfield
Seven Pounds

I didn't think this one would be that though. I always knew that The Dark Knight would be the best film of 2008. Cloverfield really pushed it though. I do love the film that much. Mainly because it delivered an experience unlike any before. And Seven Pounds really came out of nowhere for me... but it's absolutely fantastic.

BEST ANIMATED TV SERIES:
American Dad

RUNNERS UP:
Family Guy
Futurama

Family Guy or The Simpsons often get the award for this category, but this year it was stolen by American Dad. The show blew me away this season, with each episode getting better and better. I never could have guessed that it could take Family Guy's crown.

BEST COMEDY TV SERIES:
Weeds

RUNNERS UP:
Scrubs
My Name is Earl

Scrubs Season 8 so far has been great. Season 7 was just okay though. It is for this reason that this year it loses its awards to Weeds. I finally got through watching Seasons 1-4 this year... and it was amazing. Season 2 was the real highlight. Hilarious whilst also incredibly dramatic.

BEST DRAMA TV SERIES:
Lost Season 4

RUNNERS UP:
Desperate Housewives Season 5
Pushing Daisies Season 2
Heroes Season 3

This was a really, really tough one. In the end I chose Lost Season 4 because of how much it revitalised the show. Lost was starting to fade away, but Season 4 blew everyone away. I was looking forward so much to Heroes Season 3, but in the end, this season of Lost was even better.

TOP TV SERIES OF 2008:
Pushing Daisies Season 2

RUNNERS UP:
Heroes Season 3
Lost Season 4

An unexpected winner of TV this year. I loved the first season of Pushing Daises, but the second season that aired this year is some of the best TV I've ever seen. The show is unlike anything I've ever seen, and it's so tragic that it has been cancelled.

TOP GAME OF 2008:
Fable II

RUNNERS UP:
Dead Space
Grand Theft Auto IV

Fable II, as I thought, was my favourite game of 2008. I loved the original, and the sequel was just as good as, if not better. Dead Space also really surprised me, I didn't expect it but it delivered the best gaming experience of the year.

So that's it. The movie, TV show, and game awards for 2008. Hope you enjoyed reading.

MOVIE REVIEW : Revolutionary Road

REVOLUTIONARY ROAD

Directed by Sam Mendes
Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet


PLOT

A young couple living in a Connecticut suburb during the mid-1950s struggle to come to terms with their personal problems while trying to raise their two children.

WHAT I THOUGHT

Whoa. Now that was a powerful film. From the director of American Beauty, this film reteams Leonardo DiCaprio with Kate Winslet together again after Titanic... don't go into it expecting that film though... it's really, really different.

That's not to say it was a bad film. It wasn't. It was fantastic. But it is very heavy to watch. It's hard to view at some points, and other points I was on the edge of my seat... not knowing what was to come next.

The interesting thing about this film is that nothing really happens that much throughout. There is of course plot development, but the film is based much more on the characters... and simply lets you watch the rise and fall of a typical marriage in the 50's.

I wasn't expecting the film to be quite so shocking, so if you choose to view the film... go into it prepared... I don't feel I was prepared enough! Myself and my housemate were both squirming at many points... whether its one of the many arguments, the awkward dinner scenes or the ending.

Everyone is raving about Kate Winslet's performance in this film. It's true. She is fantastic. However, the thing that annoys me is that I don't see Leonardo DiCaprio getting any recognition compared to her. It is my personal opinion that he was even stronger in the film than her. He covers such a wide range of emotions, its simply amazing. I never knew how he would react to a situation next.

I'd also like to note some of the supporting performances too. Especially Michael Shannon as a mental patient, he is truly quite terrifying... but in a very subtle way.

So, in conclusion, definately a film worth seeing. No doubt it truly is fantastic. I just can't stress enough how difficult it is to watch... and you should really go in prepared to feel all kind of emotions, and be very shocked as well.

BEST MOMENT

An argument between the two leads near the climax of the film. An acting tour-de-force.

MY RATING

**********

Munwebb Collection

Hey there!

Have barely shown anyone this yet... so now's the time with this new blog...

Over the Summer, I became very bored as I couldn't find a job. I decided to make a huge DVD collection that spanned the entire filmmaking career of Munwebb between myself and Greg.

It is a six disc complilation with full artwork, and inside a 16 page colour booklet chronicling the years of Munwebb and some stories about each film.

DOWNLOAD BOOKLET HERE

Each disc (and therefore each film) has a different page, each containing posters, or trailers, or scripts etc... Check them out.

I particularly recommend Disc Six... which includes all my old stories and scripts available to read for the first time ever!

DISC ONE - THE ZOMBIE SURVIVAL GUIDE: DIRECTOR'S CUT

DISC TWO - THE ZOMBIE SURVIVAL GUIDE: EXTRAS

DISC THREE - THE ZOMBIE SURVIVAL GUIDE: ORIGINAL CUT

DISC FOUR - LUCID LIFE

DISC FIVE - LEAVERS DVD

DISC SIX - EVERYTHING ELSE


Anyone interested in a copy of the Munwebb Collection - or any one of the discs - please contact me.

MOVIE REVIEW : How to Lose Friends and Alienate People

HOW TO LOSE FRIENDS AND ALIENATE PEOPLE

Directed by Robert Weide
Starring Simon Pegg and Kirsten Dunst


PLOT

A British writer struggles to fit in at a high-profile magazine in New York. Based on Toby Young's memoir "How to Lose Friends & Alienate People".

WHAT I THOUGHT

Simon Pegg has to be one of my favourite actors. Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead are some of my top films ever, and I still loved Run, Fat Boy, Run because of him. It was for this reason that I chose to sit down and watch this film. I can't say publicity and celebrities are really my interest - but I wanted to see it for Simon Pegg.

First things first - he doesn't disappoint. If you liked him before, you'll like him now. The film was okay... but not great. He was truly the glue that held it together to make it worthwhile.

The other performances were so so. Kirsten Dunst was playing her usual character really. And I thought Megan Fox was a bit too "trampish". I did like Jeff Bridges in it, but felt he should've been in it more. Danny Huston also made a terrific villain character.

As for the film, it's pretty funny. Most of the laughs I got though were from Simon Pegg. Some of the faces he pulls, and little moments are what make his performances brilliant. I did also love the British vs American theme to the whole thing... and how Americans sometimes just don't get British humour, always leading to very awkward situations. These were the best bits.

The ending is quite predictable though, and the film does follow a very basic conventional rom-com storyline.

So, definately check this one out if you love Simon Pegg - as he is still wonderful in this as ever. Just a rental though, not really worth buying!

BEST MOMENT

Simon Pegg's performance. Once again, he continues to make me laugh all the time.

MY RATING

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MOVIE REVIEW : Slumdog Millionaire

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

Directed by Danny Boyle
Starring Dev Patel and Freida Pinto


PLOT

The story of the life of an impoverished Indian teen Jamal Malik, who becomes a contestant on the Hindi version of "Who Wants to be A Millionaire?", wins, and is then suspected of cheating.

WHAT I THOUGHT

Shouldn't really need any introduction to this film. It's the talk of the times at the moment. A huge comeback for Danny Boyle (even though I loved Sunshine), and a huge breakthrough for Skins star Dev Patel.

I thought it was an excellent film. Superbly made with great performances all around. I just didn't think it was as good as everyone is making it out to be.

Don't get me wrong, the film is full of many moments that I loved. Some of the stuff with the youngest children was fantastic. I suppose it all got a little heavy for me in the middle. It's well shot, with good (though once again - not amazing) music. I didn't like the subtitles system, I understand that Boyle chose not to have them at the bottom of the screen, and in different colours... but I sometimes didn't catch them because of this.

I can't stress how good all the performances are though. I liked Dev Patel, though I thought he was slightly underused. If again, as I said earlier, I thought the youngest children storyline was my favourite, and for a group of what looked like 6 year or so year olds... they were fantastic.

And of course, the ending is as feel good as everyone says it is. It's just a heavy film to get through beforehand. I did love a montage at the end, when it all starts to finish, and you get flashes of his life that you'd just been watching... and at that point I realised I had been on a good journey with this character, and liked it.

So, my conclusion is that you should definately see this film. I understand why many people love it so much, just don't go into it expecting the best film you've ever seen.

BEST MOMENT

Quite a few great moments to choose from. The ending seems a little too obvious. So I guess I'll say my favourite moment was the bit where the two brothers first meet Latika in the rain.

MY RATING

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MOVIE REVIEW : Lakeview Terrace

LAKEVIEW TERRACE

Directed by Neil LaBute
Starring Samuel L. Jackson and Patrick Wilson


PLOT

An LAPD officer will stop at nothing to force out the interracial couple who just moved in next door.

WHAT I THOUGHT

Initially, I didn't want to see this one. I didn't think it'd be very good. That's when I was surprised when the film started to receive good reviews, and I got recommendations from friends to go and see it.

I liked it. I didn't think it was amazing, but at the end of the day, still an enjoyable film.

I thought Samuel L. Jackson was fantastic in his role as a racist black man, and its really interesting to see him slipping from a neighbour trying to smile, to a downright maniac. I also thought Patrick Wilson was excellent as Chris, the white guy next door.

As you may have guessed, the film is all about racism, yet from a different point of view. I had no idea how the film was going to end. And you have to endure through a lot of nail biting scenes to reach the finale. Some scenes were also quite shocking, which I was not expecting.

So, yeah, I recommend this film. It's not amazing... but it sets out to do what it wants to! It's worth seeing for the performance of Samuel L. Jackson alone!

BEST MOMENT

A nail biting scene where Samuel L. Jackson confronts his daughter in their garden.

MY RATING

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GAME REVIEW : Prince of Persia (Xbox 360)

PRINCE OF PERSIA (Xbox 360)

Developed by Ubisoft
Published by Ubisoft

STORY

I liked the story, but I didn't love it... until the end that is! The ending of this game is such a tease, all I'll say is the final achievement is called "To Be Continued". How cruel is that.

The game follows a mysterious figure in the desert (you never know his name), who meets a Princess entitled Elika. They team up to take down Ahriman... a really bad god who corrupts all the light.

I won't give away too much. The best thing about it is the chemistry between the Prince and Elika. Should make for some pretty "hot" scenes in later games. Haha.

GRAPHICS

I loved the graphical style of this game. It's meant to look like an illustrated paining... so the game is cell shaded in a really advanced way. It looks fantastic though.

The Prince and Elika are both well designed, but the environments are the most amazing thing. Sometimes when you restore an area to light... its just jaw dropping.

I also loved the look of the corruption, and some of the bosses were amazing. Especially one that catches fire, and everything is only lit by him. That's probably the graphical highlight for me.

SOUND

The sound design was also good. Sound effects were as you'd expect... nothing amazing.

As for the voice acting... I wasn't sure at first. They used the same actor that did Uncharted as Drake, meaning that the Prince is now cocky and always giving one liners. He grew on me though, and he began to feel more like an action hero than any of the Prince's in previous games. Elika was also done brilliantly.

The music was superb. It felt epic, and very orchestral. With a wide range of themes all the way through. Top notch stuff.

GAMEPLAY

Here's the big one. I liked the gameplay. At first I thought the Prince was a little slow, and seemed heavier then in previous titles. I did began to like it. Everything seems so fluid. The animations are amazing, probably the best I've seen in a game so far.

As for Elika... at first I was worried she would make the game too easy by never letting me die. By the end of the game I didn't know what I'd do without her. Like the dog in Fable 2, the companionship is extraordinary and you really come to rely on each other. She never gets in the way... only helps. I hope in a future game they make Elika available for co-op!

And the fighting... I loved it. A really deep fighting system, where you have to take everything slower and think about your next move rather than just slamming buttons all the time. I didn't like the amount of quick time events or button mashing involved, but apart from that, no complaints.

BEST MOMENT

That ending. "To be Continued..." HOW DARE THEY!

STORY

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GRAPHICS

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SOUND

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GAMEPLAY

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OVERALL

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MOVIE REVIEW : Australia

AUSTRALIA

Directed by Baz Luhrmann
Starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman


PLOT

Set in northern Australia before World War II, an English aristocrat who inherits a sprawling ranch reluctantly pacts with a stock-man in order to protect her new property from a takeover plot. As the pair drive 2,000 head of cattle over unforgiving landscape, they experience the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by Japanese forces firsthand.

WHAT I THOUGHT

I was really looking forward to this one. Mainly because of my love for the Director, who also brought us Moulin Rouge and the new Romeo + Juliet. I wasn't disappointed. This is most definately a Baz Luhrmann film, and I loved every minute of it.

The interesting thing to note about this movie is that it feels like four movies in one. That's not a bad thing though, because with the film's epic spanning storyline, and its huge running time, it never gets boring.

The story starts out in true Baz Luhrmann style. It feels almost exactly like Moulin Rouge again with the music, and the editing style. It then goes into more of a Western. Eventually after that section, the film goes into an epic romance. And finally, a war film to finish. Believe me, I didn't spoil anything... I just wet your appetite.

I absolutely LOVED Hugh Jackman in this film. I've always liked him, but he was such a great character. And when things get emotional towards the end, he's actually a brilliant actor. My poor girlfriend was sobbing away. Nicole Kidman was good too, but in my opinion wasn't as strong as Jackman. One amazing actor to note however is the boy newcomer, Brandon Walters. Truly terrific in his role.

So, go see this movie if you're looking for an epic experience. Some people may not like it, but I washed away by the story. The amazing visuals and awesome soundtrack are truly worth a cinema viewing.

BEST MOMENT

There's so many fantastic moments. Hmm. I suppose my favourite would have to be the Japanese bombing scene.

MY RATING

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MOVIE REVIEW : City of Ember

CITY OF EMBER

Directed by Gil Kenan
Starring Saoirse Ronan and Harry Treadaway


PLOT

For generations, the people of the City of Ember have flourished in an amazing world of glittering lights. But Ember's once powerful generator is failing ... and the great lamps that illuminate the city are starting to flicker.

WHAT I THOUGHT

Not sure what to think about this film. I really liked it. It had a fantastic atmosphere, I just felt the whole thing was a little rushed and the film should've been longer.

This is probably because I loved the world that the film was based in so much, and wanted to know more. The set pieces truly are the star of the show here. The sets are absolutely fantastic, and the whole design of the world is really interesting. That's why I wanted to see more.

Good performances all round though, from the two main actors who did what they were meant to do. But Tim Robbins and Bill Murray are truly the icing on the cake. I especially loved a scene where Tim Robbins was trying to delay some guards. Classic.

The film was a brilliant start, sucking me in right from the beginning - instantly wanting to know more. It then dips a little in the middle when the kids are getting a bit confused. Bless. It then definately picks up a new pace towards the end though, and when all the puzzles start coming together it's truly satisfying.

In some ways the puzzles and traps reminded me a bit of a game like Tomb Raider... that sort of feeling of accomplishment is felt.

So, I actually recommend this film... the sets are truly a sight to behold, and the design work is amazing. The storyline is good but should've been a bit deeper.

BEST MOMENT

When all the puzzles start to click into place towards the end.

MY RATING

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