TOP 5 MUSICAL FILMS

05. MOULIN ROUGE (2001)

Directed by Baz Luhrmann

Starring Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman

WHY?
Moulin Rouge is a hard movie to describe if you haven't seen. Bright, colourful, eccentric. Its full of energy, constantly moving... very funny yet extremely sad. The songs are actually mostly recycled, but fit in so well that you forget they are. The films one original song "Come What May" is worth seeing the film for anyway.

BEST MOMENT/SONG
The Elephant Love Medley.

BEST QUOTE
Christian: [v.o] Suddenly an unconscious Argentinean fell through my roof.
[With a loud crash, the Narcoleptic Argentinean falls through the ceiling]
Christian: [v.o] He was quickly joined by a dwarf dressed as a nun.


04. TENACIOUS D: THE PICK OF DESTINY (2006)

Directed by Liam Lynch

Starring Jack Black and Kyle Gass

WHY?
Epic rock musical. Tenacious D are my favourite band ever, and for them to make a film... this was as close as I could get to heaven. It surpassed my expectations. The film is awesome. Absolutely phenomenal tunes and pant wettingly funny, and surprisingly epic (as I would have hoped). I never get bored of watching it, or the soundtrack for that matter.

BEST MOMENT
I can't decide between Master Exploder, or the fight with the devil at the end!

BEST QUOTE
Jack's Father: [JB see's his father in the "faces" of the Gig-simulator's crowd] You're nothing but a mistake. I should have worn a condom.


03. SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET (2007)

Directed by Tim Burton

Starring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter

WHY?
A very dark and moody film, yet still a true musical. Full of great songs and sequences, this is Tim Burton at his best. It isn't a conventional loud musical, but one based around atmosphere which I loved. Its incredibly gory, and all the performances are great. The art direction is the key here... everything looks so... dead. Its great.

BEST MOMENT
When Sweeney reunites with his blades - My Friends.

BEST QUOTE
[Sweeney Todd and Mrs. Lovett buy what appears to be Pirelli's Miracle Elixir]
Sweeney Todd: [opens the lid] What is this?
Mrs. Lovett: What is this?
Sweeney Todd: Smells like piss.
Mrs. Lovett: [sniffs] Smells like, eww!
Sweeney Todd: Looks like piss.
Mrs. Lovett: [unison] I wouldn't touch it if I was you, dear.
Sweeney Todd: This is piss. / Piss with ink.


02. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (2004)

Directed by Joel Schumacher

Starring Gerard Butler and Emmy Rossum

WHY?
I can remember clearly seeing this in the theatre when I was younger - and I was just blown away. It was unlike anything I had ever seen, or heard before. The film really lives up to the stage musical, it is an incredibly faithful adaption. Everyone is well cast which was always my main worry - and the songs still pack the punch they once did. The extra scenes actually make the story even deeper and improve the overall experience. Its a film best viewed with a very large surround sound system...

BEST MOMENT
Christine's trip to the graveyard - being pursued by the Phantom.

BEST QUOTE

---

Andre: Signor, isn't there a rather marvelous aria for Elissa in Act 3 of Hannibal? Perhaps the signora...
Carlotta: Yes, yes, yes, yes. No! Because I have not my costume for Act 3 because somebody not finish it! And... I HATE MY HAT!


01. THE PRODUCERS (2005)

Directed by Susan Stroman

Starring Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick

WHY?
I can remember how I saw The Producers. Me and my family were all going to see Narnia, and really looking forward to it. It was sold out when we got there. We were really annoyed. My parents insisted that instead we all go see the new Producers film. Me and my brother reluctantly agreed. Little did I know that The Producers was a far greater film than Narnia was. This is hands down my favourite musical ever. So many people hate it, and I just don't know why. There is not one moment in this film that I don't like. Sure it may be cheesy... but thats the point! Every song is perfect, every character is perfect, every scene is perfect. There isn't one single thing I would change about it. I remember my mouth being open the whole way through the film in the cinema, because I simply couldn't believe what I was seeing. It was so immature, it was so gay, it was amazing. I have since seen it in the theatre multiple times and watch it loads on DVD... it will never ever get old.

BEST MOMENT
When they try to hire a director, possibly the gayest thing I have ever seen, or will ever see...

BEST QUOTE
Max Bialystock: I'm drowning here! I'm going down for the last time! I... I... I see my whole life flashing before my eyes! I see a weathered old farmhouse... With a white picket fence... I'm running through fields of alfalfa with my collie, Rex. No Rex, not on the alfalfa. And I see my mother... I see Mama, standing on the back porch... And I hear her calling out to me...”Alvin, don't forget your chores! The wood needs a-cordin' and the cows need a-milkin'! Alviiiiin! Aaaaalviiiiiiiiiiiin!"... Wait a minute. My name's not Alvin. That's not my life. Someone else's life is flashing before my eyes. What the hell is that about? I'm not a hillbilly, I grew up in the Bronx. Leo's taken everything from me... Even my past!

TOP 5 ROMANCE FILMS

05. ROMEO + JULIET (1996)

Directed by Baz Luhrmann

Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes

WHY?
It may be a drama... but Romeo and Juliet is always known as a tragic romance. It is a story about romance, and how it goes wrong. Some people hate this film, but I loved it the first time I saw it. The language may put some people off, but its a very deep film and the language just solidifies this. The modern setting really energizes this film, and some of the sequences are fantastic. The romance is perfect though, especially when they first meet through the fish tank. Great performances all round too, and an amazing soundtrack.

BEST MOMENT
The love scene in the swimming pool.

BEST QUOTE
Benvolio: By my head, here come the Capulets!
Mercutio: By my heel, I care not.


04. THE NOTEBOOK (2004)

Directed by Nick Cassavetes

Starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams

WHY?
It may be a bit of a girly film - but this one is a very guilty pleasure for me. I love this film. It is terrifically well made, with beautiful cinematography and outstanding performances. Rachel McAdams is hot - just thought I'd say that. It is very sad, but a very rewarding film to watch for all ages - and a perfect date movie.

BEST MOMENT
When they confront each other on the dock in the rain.

BEST QUOTE
Young Noah: Will you go out with me?
Young Allie: What? No.
Young Noah: No...?
Young Allie: No.
Young Noah: Why not?
Young Allie: I dunno, because I don't want to.
Young Noah: OK, then you leave me no other choice.
Young Allie: AHHHH
Young Noah: I'm gonna ask you one more time, will you or will you not go out with me? I think my hand's slipping.
Young Allie: OK, OK. Fine I'll go out with you
Young Noah: No, don't do me any favors.
Young Allie: No, no I want to.
Young Noah: Say it.
Young Allie: I wanna go out with you.
Young Noah: Say it again.
Young Allie: I WANNA GO OUT WITH YOU!
Young Noah: All right, all right we'll go out.


03. THE LAST KISS (2006)

Directed by Tony Goldwyn

Starring Zach Braff and Jacinda Barrett

WHY?
A film that has grown and grown on me... now I see it as one of my favourite films ever. It is probably my girlfriend's most watched film - and for good reason. The story is great, and not a conventional romance film by any means. It is about temptation and what is considered right and wrong. By the end of the film, you are so drawn into the characters and the story that you never want it to end.

BEST MOMENT
Sitting on the porch at the end. One of the favourite film sequences ever.

BEST QUOTE
Kim: Having a crisis are we?
Michael: Do I look like I'm having a crisis?
Kim: Everyone I know is having a crisis. I know you're not supposed to get them until midlife but I think something's happening to our metabolism
Michael: Our metabolism?
Kim: [nods] Yeah, I mean the world is moving so fast now, we are all chasing something so fast that we start freaking out long before our parents did. Feel my heart.
[puts his hand in her chest]
Kim: Feel how fast it is?
Michael: ...that's a fast heart.
Kim: ‘Cause we don't ever stop to breathe anymore...
[takes his hand off her chest]
Kim: You gotta remember to breathe or you'll die.
02. LOVE ACTUALLY (2003)

Directed by Richard Curtis

Starring Hugh Grant and Bill Nighy and many, many others...

WHY?
I love all of Richard Curtis' films... and they all deserve credit... but at the end of the day, this is the crown jewel of British comedy romance. A very complex narrative weaving many different characters together. It is hilarious, and very sad. It's interesting because not everyone has a happy ending. I never get bored of it, because there is always so much going on, and it is always interesting. Each character is fantastic, and very unique from the major characters like Hugh Grant as the Prime Minister, or Bill Nighy as Billy Mack... to the nude double love story that is interweaved too. Great watching all round.

BEST MOMENT
When Emma Thompson breaks down in her room when she realises her husband is having an affair. It's heartbreaking to watch.

BEST QUOTE
[in Portuguese]
Jamie: Good evening. Mr. Barros?
Mr. Barros: Yes?
Jamie: I am here to ask your daughter for her hands in marriage.
Mr. Barros: You want to marry my daughter?
Jamie: Yes.
Mr. Barros: [yelling toward the back of the house] Come here, there is a man at the door. He wants to marry you.
[a large and confused woman emerges]
Sophia Barros: But I've never seen him before.
Mr. Barros: Who cares?
Sophia Barros: You're going to sell me to a complete stranger?
Mr. Barros: Sell? Who said 'sell?' I'll pay him.
Jamie: Pardon me. I'm meaning your other daughter - Aurelia.


01. GARDEN STATE (2004)

Directed by Zach Braff

Starring Zach Braff and Natalie Portman

WHY?
Absolutely my favourite drama romance film ever. Zach Braff both directed it, wrote it and starred in it... and everything shines here. It is the story of transformation, and about people. All quirky and strange characters. The film visually matches this theme too, with lots of strange yet hilarious moments - like a shirt that matches the wallpaper. Natalie Portman's character in this film is so innocent that I totally fell for her - a great performance that I couldn't get enough of. The music is also mindblowing - Zach Braff won a Grammy for the soundtrack which is 110% deserved. Don't take my word for it, see it today.

BEST MOMENT
The first kiss between Largeman and Sam, in the rain.

BEST QUOTE
Andrew Largeman: I think we've corrupted this innocent girl enough for one day!
Sam: I'm not innocent.
Andrew Largeman: Yes, you are! That's what I like about you, okay? And I don't want this guy taking you to some sketchy quarry in the middle of Newark to find crack whores huffing turpentine or pit bulls raping each other or whatever else is down here!
Mark: Man... that's the most worked up I've ever seen you.
Sam: He's protecting me.
Andrew Largeman: So?
Sam: He *likes* me!
Andrew Largeman: Don't be cute.
Sam: He's my knight in shining armor.
Andrew Largeman: Don't talk about knights around Mark, it's a sore subject.
Mark: I'm gonna kill that motherfucker!
Andrew Largeman: Pun intended?

GAME REVIEW : F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin (Xbox 360)

F.E.A.R. 2: PROJECT ORIGIN (Xbox 360)

Developed by Monolith
Published by WB Games

STORY

This was the main problem for me. It's hard for me to review the story. This isn't really the fault of the game, the problem was that I never played a lot of FEAR 1... and this was a direct continuation. What it meant was that I didn't know what was going on a lot of the time! It still managed to intrigue me though, enough to keep playing. The story gets deeper the more you look into it, as you can find Intel to read everywhere (a bit like Doom 3), if you choose to read these, you will get a richer experience... but the storyline is still pretty good.

GRAPHICS

Another difficult one to judge. Often the graphics were absolutely stunning, but sometimes they looked just mediocre. The characters truly blossom here, when you see them up close... they look amazing. Also Alma (the little girl) is suitably gruesome in her rendering... and quite chilling to look at.

The gore effects are great, and of course, very over the top. The lighting system is top notch, the scariest moments in the game are when the lights go out and you start to see things illuminated.

SOUND

The game truly shone here. Extremely creepy atmosphere all around. I couldn't really say anything about the music, because I didn't notice any at all. If there was, it was all ambience tracks, nothing spectacular. The scary sound effects were fantastically done though, made me jump quite a few times. If anything, sometimes it all gets a bit crowded... but that's not going to ruin your experience playing.

The voice acting is really good too. I was surprised to see that Jenna Taylor (the voice actress who does Cortana from Halo) played one of the main characters... she was great as always. As such an avid Halo player though, I found it a little distracting, it felt weird to hear Cortana swearing in my ear all the time!

It's all top notch stuff though, except for the music.

GAMEPLAY

At first, I really hated the gunplay. The aiming seemed a bit slow and clunky for me... I tried to adjust the settings but nothing really helped. I kept at it though. After a while, I learned to love it. The combat system is great, the thing that I needed to get over was the fact that this was a horror shooter, not a game like Halo... and therefore I had to take everything a bit slower.

The real star of the show here is the slow motion, which works perfectly. There is nothing better than clearing a whole room of soldiers in one slow motion burst.

The weapons are all fun, but just seem to be a rehash of everything you've seen before - like the nail gun from Half-Life, or the laser from Unreal. Don't let it put you off though, it's still great fun wielding these beasts around.

As for the main premise - the scares. It was very 50/50 for me. Sometimes the game was very creepy and had a great atmosphere, but it didn't stay like that constantly. Often the game turned into quite a generic shooter which was a bit disappointing. Don't get me wrong though - when the game wants you to be really scared, it can be really creepy indeed. Alma is a great villain, and one that made me not want to go into another dark bathroom with mirror's everywhere...

BEST MOMENT

Some of the set pieces are incredible. The visual moments are out of this world. My favourite is when I was walking along a bridge, and some crows all flew into my face... then overhead with a huge roar, a jumbo jet on fire zoomed past my head and crashed nearby. All I could say was "Whoa..."

There's also a great moment when you are making your way through a subway tunnel, then you realise there are rats everywhere beneath your feet running the other way. Was a great mini moment in my eyes.

STORY

**********

GRAPHICS

**********

SOUND

**********

GAMEPLAY

**********

OVERALL

**********

TOP 10 DRAMA FILMS

10. THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS (2006)

Directed by Gabriele Muccino

Starring Will Smith and Jaden Smith

WHY?
First time I saw this film, I didn't really think that much of it. It was so depressing. Everything went so wrong, all the time. Second viewing however, I loved it. I knew what was going to happen, and the struggles it took to get there. It's a film that gets better each time I view it. Will Smith is at the top of his game here, and his son is fantastic too in the role.

BEST MOMENT
When Will Smith locks himself in the bathroom with his son, pretending its a cave. He then starts crying as something is banging on the door. What a moment.

BEST QUOTE
Christopher: What are you doing?
Christopher Gardner: Paying a parking ticket.
Christopher: ...But we don't have a car anymore.
Christopher Gardner: Yeah, I know...

09. TITANIC (1997)

Directed by James Cameron

Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet

WHY?
It's hard to put a genre on this film. Some people think it is a romance. Don't get me wrong, it is a romance... but at its heart, this is a film about a disaster. It's a heavy drama. It is absolutely phenomenal filmmaking, mixing various genres together to give the viewer the ultimate experience. Even though it is three hours long, it never feels like it to me, because I am so drawn into the story and it never gets boring. The actual sinking contains some of the most hard hitting scenes to hit film, including people snapping bones as they fall... or even a frozen baby in the water. Great stuff.

BEST MOMENT
There's so many I could choose from. I'd say my favourite is when Jack is in handcuffs, and Rose fetches an axe... then all the lights go out. That scene has everything, drama, romance and horror. Perfectly made.

BEST QUOTE
[Rose is about to cut Jack free with an axe]
Jack: Wait, wait, wait! Take a couple practice swings over there.
[Rose chops a hole in a cupboard door]
Jack: Good! Now try and hit the same mark again.
[Rose chops again, missing the first hole by about 3 feet]
Jack: Okay, that's enough practice.

08. FINDING NEVERLAND (2004)

Directed by Marc Forster

Starring Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet

WHY?
I wasn't expecting to like this one as much as I did. I wasn't expecting the film to be so interesting. I never knew the story of Peter Pan getting written would be so interesting, and heartbreaking. It's hard not to have a lump in your throat by the end of the film. It also contains some great quirky scenes that are done to represent a child's imagination. Not many films would take a risk like that, and that is why this film stands out so much.

BEST MOMENT
When the play comes to perform privately in Kate Winslet's home.

BEST QUOTE
Peter Llewelyn Davies: This is absurd. It's just a dog.
J.M. Barrie: Just a dog? *Just*?
[to Porthos]
J.M. Barrie: Porthos, don't listen!
[to Peter]
J.M. Barrie: Porthos dreams of being a bear, and you want to shatter those dreams by saying he's *just* a dog? What a horrible candle-snuffing word. That's like saying, "He can't climb that mountain, he's just a man", or "That's not a diamond, it's just a rock." Just.

07. UNBREAKABLE (2000)

Directed by M. Night Shyamalan

Starring Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson

WHY?
Phenomenal film. It's technically a superhero movie, but its the first act (where they find out they have a power), lengthened to a two hour movie. It's all based around the character development, and Shyamalan was still on the top of his game when he wrote this script. This is my favourite Samuel L. Jackson performance out of all the stuff that he has done. Everything he says is so powerful and twisted. By the time the film reaches its finale, I was on the edge of my seat.

BEST MOMENT
Bruce Willis follows the Orange Man...

BEST QUOTE
Elijah Price: Your bones don't break, mine do. That's clear. Your cells react to bacteria and viruses differently than mine. You don't get sick, I do. That's also clear. But for some reason, you and I react the exact same way to water. We swallow it too fast, we choke. We get some in our lungs, we drown. However unreal it may seem, we are connected, you and I. We're on the same curve, just on opposite ends.

06. STRANGER THAN FICTION (2006)

Directed by Marc Forster

Starring Will Ferrell and Maggie Gyllenhaal

WHY?
Like many films, I wasn't expecting much from this. I love Will Ferrell as a comedian, and was concerned that he couldn't carry a drama film too. How wrong I was. He proves to be an excellent lead, yet again. This film has such a unique premise compared to most other films... and I really had no idea how the next scene would play out. That's the films greatest compliment, that it is never predictable. All the performances are also fantastic, and the film wouldn't work unless it was under the capable hands of director Marc Forster (who also directed Finding Neverland on this list).

BEST MOMENT
The ending. I was so tense it was unbelievable.

BEST QUOTE
Harold Crick: [on bus, and sees Ana get on the same bus] Miss Pascal! Miss Pascal!
Ana Pascal: [she sees him and moves away so that she is standing in the aisle]
Harold Crick: It's Harold Crick from the IRS.
Ana Pascal: [embarrassed] Hi.
Harold Crick: Hey, do you want a seat?
Ana Pascal: No.
Harold Crick: Because there are 11 empty ones.
Ana Pascal: No. I'm fine.
Ana Pascal: [Ana tries to fit, hanging onto a pole that is already full of people. The bus jolts, and she is flung into a seat that is next to, Harold. Embarrassed, she stays there and tries to ignore him]
Harold Crick: So, how are you?
Ana Pascal: I'm lousy. I'm getting audited! By a real *creep*, too.
Harold Crick: Miss Pascal, I think I owe you an apology. IRS agents... we're given rigorous aptitude tests before we can work. Unfortunately for you, we aren't tested on tact or good manners. So... I-I... I apologize. I o-ogled you. Sorry.
Ana Pascal: Apology accepted. But only because you stammered.
Harold Crick: So, are you a frequenter of the Metropolitan Transit Authority too?
Ana Pascal: No. I'm just late.
Harold Crick: Big flag burning to get to?
Ana Pascal: Actually, it's my weekly evil-conspiracy and needlepoint group. You wanna come?
Harold Crick: I left my thimbles and socialist reading material at home.
Kay Eiffel: [narrating] So Harold began to engage in small talk.
Harold Crick: [to Ana] You have very straight teeth.
Ana Pascal: Thanks.
Kay Eiffel: [narrating] *Very* small talk.

05. THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION (1994)

Directed by Frank Darabont

Starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman

WHY?
This film is actually Number one on the IMDB ratings chart. I don't think it's the greatest film in history, but it definately deserves every bit of praise that it gets. It is written and directed fantastically, with great performances all around. The music is also amazing. There is not one thing in this film that does not work. By the time that the ending rolls in, you feel satisfied in a way that many films can never achieve.

BEST MOMENT
When he finally escapes from Shawshank. One of the greatest moments in film history.

BEST QUOTE
Brooks: [narrating] Dear fellas, I can't believe how fast things move on the outside. I saw an automobile once when I was a kid but now they're everywhere. The world went and got itself in a big damn hurry. The parole board got me into this halfway house called "The Brewer". And a job bagging groceries at the Foodway. It's hard work and I try to keep up but my hands hurt most of the time. I don't think the store manager likes me very much. Sometimes after work I go to the park and feed the birds. I keep thinking Jake might just show up and say hello. But he never does. I hope wherever he is he's okay and makin' new friends. I have trouble sleepin' at night. I have bad dreams like I'm falling. I wake up scared. Sometimes it takes me a while to remember where I am. Maybe I should get me a gun, an, an rob the Foodway so they'd send me home. I could shoot the manager while I was at it, sort of like a bonus. I guess I'm too old for that sort of nonsense anymore. I don't like it here. I'm tired of being afraid all the time. I've decided not to stay. I doubt they'll kick up any fuss. Not for an old crook like me.
[carves "Brooks was here" into wood. Admires his work for a moment. Then kicks out the table beneath him and hangs himself]


04. THE PRESTIGE (2006)

Directed by Christopher Nolan

Starring Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale

WHY?
When I first saw this film, I went to sleep straight after. When I woke up, I watched it again. No film has made me do that before. The twist in this film is so great that I instantly had to see it again. I don't want to spoil it, but anyone that has seen it will know what I mean. Christopher Nolan has proved to be a master of directing by now... and this film is no exception. It is suitably dark as ever, but plot is the most important thing. The film is non-linear, which I don't normally like... but it truly works here. The best thing about this film is the script, and everyone needs to see it.

BEST MOMENT
When you realise the big twist, and you instantly need to watch the film again to see how stupid you've been all along...

BEST QUOTE
Alfred Borden: Everything's going to be alright, because I love you very much.
Sarah: Say it again.
Alfred Borden: I love you.
Sarah: Not today.
Alfred Borden: What do you mean?
Sarah: Well some days it's not true. Maybe today you're more in love with magic. I like being able to tell the difference, it makes the days it is true mean something.


03. AMERICAN BEAUTY (1999)

Directed by Sam Mendes

Starring Kevin Spacey and Annette Benning

WHY?
I'd heard so many great things about this film before I saw it, I didn't think there was any way it could live up to such expectations. I was wrong, as ever. Like The Prestige, the true star here is the script. It truly is one of the greatest in history. Every character is brilliant, and everything they do is interesting. Kevin Spacey tells you what is going to happen at the start of the film, but by the time it does happen... you can't believe it. You're so drawn into the world and how all the characters got here that you're still surprised by it. The music is also phenomenal, and most people would recognise as soon as they hear it.

BEST MOMENT
Another film that's extremely hard to choose. The ending is of course fantastic, but my favourite part has to be the basketball game scene. Everything in that is brilliant.

BEST QUOTE
[at the dinner table]
Carolyn Burnham: Your father and I were just discussing his day at work. Why don't you tell our daughter about it, honey?
Lester Burnham: Janie, today I quit my job. And then I told my boss to go fuck himself, and then I blackmailed him for almost sixty thousand dollars. Pass the asparagus.
Carolyn Burnham: Your father seems to think this type of behavior is something to be proud of.
Lester Burnham: And your mother seems to prefer I go through life like a fucking prisoner while she keeps my dick in a mason jar under the sink.
Carolyn Burnham: How dare you speak to me that way in front of her. And I marvel that you can be so contemptuous of me, on the same day that you LOSE your job.
Lester Burnham: Lose it? I didn't lose it. It's not like, "Whoops! Where'd my job go?" I QUIT. Someone pass me the asparagus.


02. BIG FISH (2003)

Directed by Tim Burton

Starring Ewan McGregor and Albert Finney

WHY?
This is a film of moments, like Benjamin Button. However, with the creative mind of Tim Burton, it really blossoms past what most can do. I want to become a filmmaker to tell stories, and this film is all about stories and how they are represented. It has a perfect blend of reality and fantasy. It is hopelessly romantic, and dramatic. I love every single second of it. There's a mini moment (as I also mentioned in my review of Benjamin Button), that hit me hard. It's the point where Edward finally passes. The look on Billy Crudup's face is amazing, and the music (that is incredible too), suddenly strikes a deep piano note. There's something about it that always gets under my skin.

BEST MOMENT
When Will's Dad begins to die... and he has to tell the story of how he dies.

BEST QUOTE
Norther Winslow: I've been working on this poem for 12 years.
Young Ed Bloom: Really?
Norther Winslow: There's a lot of expectation. I don't wanna disappoint my fans.
Young Ed Bloom: May I?
Young Ed Bloom: [Edward reeds the poem on the notebook ] The grass so green Skies so blue. Spectre is really great!
Young Ed Bloom: It's only three lines long.
Norther Winslow: This is why you should never show a work in progress.


01. FORREST GUMP (1994)

Directed by Robert Zemeckis

Starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright Penn

WHY?
A lot of people will probably complain that this is a bit too predictable to be my favourite drama film, but I don't care what they say... because I love this film too much for words. In my eyes, it is a perfect piece of filmmaking. Nearly every genre is used (bar animati0n!), and blended to perfection. Again, it is a film of moments, but one that will probably never be surpassed. I don't need to say any more, everyone probably will have (and should have) seen Forrest Gump, and come away with that warm feeling that it leaves you with.

BEST MOMENT
It's nearly impossible to choose the greatest moment in Forrest Gump. I think it's when Forrest finds out he has a son for the first time though.

BEST QUOTE
[Forrest has finished assembling his rifle]
Forrest Gump: DONE, DRILL SERGEANT!
Drill Sergeant: GUUUUUUMP! Why did you put that weapon together so quickly, Gump?
Forrest Gump: [confused] You told me to, Drill Sergeant?
Drill Sergeant: Jesus H. Christ!
[looks at stopwatch]
Drill Sergeant: This is a new company record! If it wouldn't be such a waste of a damn-fine enlisted man I'd recommend you for OCS! You are gonna be a general someday, Gump, now disassemble your weapon and continue!

MOVIE REVIEW : Pineapple Express

PINEAPPLE EXPRESS

Directed by David Gordon Green
Starring Seth Rogen and James Franco


PLOT

A stoner and his dealer are forced to go on the run from the police after the pothead witnesses a cop commit a murder.

WHAT I THOUGHT

I must admit that I'm a big fan of Seth Rogen. And Judd Apatow. I try to see all the Judd Apatow movies. My favourite is Knocked Up, and I was a bit worried about this one. I'm not a fan of stoner comedies, so I wasn't too sure...

I was proved wrong yet again however. Really funny film.

The strange thing about this film is that it is surprisingly epic. It's actually an action film, wrapped with a comedy shell. I suppose the film I'd say it is most alike is Hot Fuzz. The final third of the film is a full out action sequence, with car chases and so thrown throughout the film too.

Now, my one complaint comes from the stoner comedy aspect. I don't always find it that funny... but they did it pretty well here. Seth Rogen and James Franco have great chemistry together. James Franco is actually the stand out here. I'd never have expected him to be so funny, and its great. Great Goblin II turns into an awesome stoner!

There's not much more I can say. It's not everyones cup of tea, but I did enjoy it for what it is. An action stoner comedy. If you like the sound of that, check it out today.

BEST MOMENT

A bit with Seth Rogen's ear. I will say no more, I don't want to spoil it.

MY RATING
**********

Snow Patrol Concert

Well, as I said on a previous blog... on Sunday night I went to see Snow Patrol. It was the second time I've seen them now, as they always seem to start their tour in Bournemouth.

I remember last time loving them completely, great fun. No complaints here either. Unfortunately, the experience went a bit wrong because my girlfriend has recently hurt her back. So we tried to get seating... but couldn't. Therefore we made a decision to stand at the rear of the hall so no one pushed her from behind.

I could see everything, but unfortunately she was about a foot smaller than everyone else! I then worried about her for the whole concert, but she says she still liked it.

Anyway, that's that... it was still fantastic in every way. I loved the support band too "Fanfarlo", who are definately worth checking out! They weren't a typical band, as they used lots of alternative instruments too like violin, trumpet, oboe and more...

Then Snow Patrol came on. I love them so. They really know how to put on a concert. The front man is hilarious, this time comparing the audience to eggs... but it was so funny at the time. At one point he even came into the audience... as can be seen in the below video.



There was a great mix of loud jumping music, and quiet, nice to listen to music. I became a huge fan of the song "The Finish Line" over this concert too, because they did it so well.



If I had one main complaint, they didn't sing "Signal Fire" which is one of their biggest, and one of my favourite songs of theirs... but never mind. Maybe next time.

The best moment however, as was last time is the song "Chasing Cars". The song gets the audience pumped up and up throughout the song, and then when it really kicks in at the end... there's no greater feeling.



So, in conclusion, great concert. I will definately be seeing them again, though next time will probably choose seated!

Mass Effect 2 Trailer!

I wouldn't normally post trailers and such... but if you have been following this blog, you will know that Mass Effect is my second favourite game of all time!

NOW! The trailer for the sequel is here! And I am still drooling over it! I won't say any more if you haven't seen it yet... as the trailer holds a twist that no one was expecting!

I have also included the first concept art for the sequel as well, which also looks amazing! Click on them for the full quality version.

Oscars Reaction...

Okay... so I'm not very happy... where do I start???

Best Writing, Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen - Dustin Lance Black (Milk)

If it was up to me... Wall E would've got this one out of all the nominations. The writers managed to craft a love story between two robots! That's a pretty tough thing to do!

Best Animated Feature Film - Wall-e

No complaints here. Wall E deserved to win this one.

Best Animated Short Film - La Maison en Petit Cubes

Where was Wallace and Gromit? The new one deserved to win... it didn't even get a nomination! WHY?!

Achievement in Art Direction - Donald Graham Burt and Victor J. Zolfo (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button)

I think this deserved to win. The art direction was indeed fantastic, the film had a great look to it. Then again... so did The Dark Knight!

Achievement in Makeup - Greg Cannom (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button)

This was a tough one to call. The Dark Knight did the Joker makeup perfectly, Hellboy II had fantastic full make up costumes, and Benjamin Button had the best aging makeup I've ever seen. So no complaints here. I'd have been happy if any of them won.

Achievement in Cinematography - Anthony Dod Mantle (Slumdog Millionaire)

Another Slumdog win. Tut. Dark Knight should've won. They did action scenes in Imax for the first time in history. Surely that's quite an awesome achievement?

Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role - Heath Ledger (The Dark Knight)

Well of course he had to win. He 110% deserved it. If Heath hadn't won the Oscar, I'd of personally kicked every Oscar voters bottom into next week.

Achievement in Visual Effects - Eric Barba, Steve Preeg, Burt Dalton, Craig Barron (Benjamin Button)

I'm really glad about this one. The other two were good... but I hadn't realised that Benjamin Button's head was CG till I saw a making of video. That's quite amazing that it fooled me completely... and that's why it deserves this Oscar!

Achievement in Sound Editing - Richard King (The Dark Knight)

Finally The Dark Knight gets a technical award. Wall E should've got both sound awards though.

Achievement in Sound Mixing - Ian Tapp, Richard Pryke, Resul Pookutty (Slumdog Millionaire)

Like I said before, Wall E should have got this. It makes me so angry that Slumdog got this. When in Slumdog was there a point where exceptional sound was used? None at all. It was very conventional. Whereas in Wall E, Ben Burtt made robots talk through using sound effects. It just gets me so angry! BLAGH!

Also, like I mentioned in my Mini Oscars... CLOVERFIELD SHOULD HAVE GOT ALL THE SOUND OSCARS! THAT SOUND WAS EXCEPTIONAL AND UNBEATABLE!

Achievement in Film Editing - Chris Dickens (Slumdog Millionaire)

If anyone didn't know, this is actually the guy that did the editing for Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz too, and I'm going to do a presentation on him soon for Uni. So I'm really glad he got this Oscar.

Achievement In Music Written For Motion Pictures (Original Score) - A.R. Rahman (Slumdog Millionaire)

Me and Joel both agree this is a sham. Slumdog didn't have a lot of original score, it was mostly songs. Wall E was far better in this category... Thomas Newman deserves an Oscar by now!

Achievement In Music Written For Motion Pictures (Original Song) - A.R. Rahman, Gulzar for Jai Ho (Slumdog Millionaire)

The first Slumdog Oscar that I agree with. A catchy song and worthy of an Oscar against its competitors.

Achievement in Directing - Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire)

I personally would have chosen David Fincher, but I can see what Danny Boyle did with the source material, and is worthy of this award.

Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role - Kate Winslet (The Reader)

Really pleased that Kate Winslet finally bagged an Oscar, after 5 fails! Well done Kate!

Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role - Sean Penn (Milk)

Haven't seen this performance yet, but am told its fantastic. Was quite surprising too, as everyone thought Mickey Rourke would get it.

Best Picture - Slumdog Millionaire.

Tut tut tut. Here it is. I don't have a problem with Slumdog Millionaire, I just don't think it is as good as everyone makes it out to be. It seems to be a film caught in hype, and that's why it made such a sweep at the Oscars. If it was up to me, The Dark Knight would have got Best Picture, or maybe even Wall E... but of course, Slumdog got it.

I'm sorry to rant... just the Oscars annoy me the way that a single film often seems to get a whole set of awards, some of which it doesn't even need. Like Slumdog for sound. Oscar voters need to see the bigger picture, and include more films like Cloverfield!

Long Time!

Hey everyone!

It's been a while since I've put anything up. I've just been so busy! Just got back from a weekend with my girlfriend, going to a hotel on the Saturday (which was rather nice), and then went to see Snow Patrol on Sunday... then came back to Uni on Monday at half 6! CRAZY!

I will do some updates later! I have some ideas!

MOVIE REVIEW : Bolt (3D)

BOLT (3D)

Directed by Byron Howard and Chris Williams
Starring John Travolta and Miley Cyrus


PLOT

The canine star of a fictional sci-fi/action show that believes his powers are real embarks on a cross country trek to save his co-star from a threat he believes is just as real.

WHAT I THOUGHT

I wasn't sure about this one. It wasn't a Pixar film... it was a Disney film, overseen by Pixar. I thought Meet the Robinsons was pretty good, though Chicken Little was really quite poo. Bolt could have been very good... or very bad. I'm happy to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it and would happily recommend it to anyone.

It starts with an absolutely awesome action scene that rivals some of the Kung Fu Panda fight scenes this Summer. I love that animated films can make amazing action scenes. It is of course, due to the plot, all fake... but great while it lasts. It reminded me a little of the opening of Toy Story 2 when Buzz takes on Zorg inside the video game world.

The film feels very Pixar-ish though. I was pleased to see that Pixar had created a Cars short to go in front of the film... about Mater racing in Japan, which was great too. The characters and the plot did feel very Pixar though in Bolt. The way that funny scenes and mixed with drama scenes with action thrown in all the time. There's even a montage very similar to "When She Loved Me" (the story of Jesse) from Toy Story 2... you can basically tell that John Lassetter has helped a lot along the way.

The characters are great. John Travolta is excellent as Bolt, the stealer of the show though is Rhino the Hamster... Bolt's biggest fan. I don't want to spoil anything, but anything scene with him in is pure gold.

The other thing worth noting is that the visuals are truly top notch. Explosions, water and fur are all used to the maximum here. I was lucky enough to see it in 3D which enhanced the experience ten fold.

I also loved the ending sequence, though I thought it could be terrifying for young kids. I know that I would've been scared as a kid watching it!

If there's any problem at all, its just that like many animated films, it feels a little predictable and you know what's going to happen. Don't let this put you off though. Really great film to watch, hugely enjoyable and fun all the way through... especially in 3D!

BEST MOMENT

When the hamster gets so excited inside his ball that he manages to steam himself in... due to extreme heavy breathing!

MY RATING
**********

TOP 10 THRILLER FILMS

10. SE7EN (1995)

Directed by David Fincher

Starring Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman

WHY?
This film is as great as everyone makes it out to be. I don't think its the most amazing thriller in the world, like some people say... but in terms of sheer atmosphere, this film cannot be beaten.

BEST MOMENT
Hard to choose a moment... I'd say the gluttony murder though... THE FAT GUY!

BEST QUOTE
John Doe: Realize detective, the only reason that I'm here right now is that I wanted to be.
David Mills: No, no, we would have got you eventually.
John Doe: Oh really? So, what were you doing? Biding your time? Toying with me? Allowing five innocent people to die until you felt like springing your trap? Tell me, what was the indisputable evidence you were going to use on me right before I walked up to you and put my hands in the air?

09. DAWN OF THE DEAD (2004)

Directed by Zack Snyder

Starring Sarah Polley and Ving Rhames

WHY?
I'm going to be honest in saying that I've not cared much for zombie films over the years. With the exception of Shaun of the Dead, I don't find slow zombies that scary or interesting at all. That's why I enjoyed this breath of fresh air when Zack Snyder make the decision to allow zombies to run. This suddenly made them so much more menacing to me. I love this film, it has a great mix of action, drama and comedy... and I don't understand why some people don't like it.

BEST MOMENT
Definately the crazy awesome opening!

BEST QUOTE
Michael: See this?
[shows how the chainsaw goes through the truck walls]
Michael: So if they try to climb on the truck, this will get them off.
Ana: That's probably the most romantic thing anyone's ever shown me.
Michael: I'm trying, Ana.

08. THE VILLAGE (2004)

Directed by M. Night Shyamalan

Starring Bryce Dallas Howard and Joaquin Phoenix

WHY?
All I will say is this... if the monsters in this film were real... it would be in my Top 3 Thrillers ever!

BEST MOMENT
When Ivy discovers what Noah has down to her fiancee...

BEST QUOTE
Ivy Walker: We have the magic rocks. They will keep us safe.
[tears well up]
Christop Crane: Why have we not heard of these rocks before?
Ivy Walker: There is nothing to fear.
[on the edge of tears]

07. FIGHT CLUB (1999)

Directed by David Fincher

Starring Edward Norton and Brad Pitt

WHY?
Hard to give this film a genre, but I certainly get thrills out of it... so I put it here. Superb, and very unique film. It's unlike anything else I've seen, and is 100% brilliant in that respect.

BEST MOMENT
So many! I'd say the awesome twist at the end though!

BEST QUOTE
Tyler Durden: The first rule of Fight Club is - you do not talk about Fight Club. The second rule of Fight Club is - you DO NOT talk about Fight Club. Third rule of Fight Club, someone yells Stop!, goes limp, taps out, the fight is over. Fourth rule, only two guys to a fight. Fifth rule, one fight at a time, fellas. Sixth rule, no shirt, no shoes. Seventh rule, fights will go on as long as they have to. And the eighth and final rule, if this is your first night at Fight Club, you have to fight.

06. THE SIXTH SENSE (1999)

Directed by M. Night Shyamalan

Starring Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment

WHY?
I can remember how terrified I was when I first saw this when I was younger. In terms of shocks and thrills, this film has a whole load. The storyline and acting are both fantastic too though, as well as the music.

BEST MOMENT
Come on... I'll show you where my Dad keeps his gun...

BEST QUOTE
[first lines]
Anna Crowe: It's getting cold.
Malcolm Crowe: That is one fine frame; one fine frame that is. How much...
[he sits down with a grunt]
Malcolm Crowe: ...does a fine frame like that cost, do you think?
Anna Crowe: I never told you, but you sound a little like Dr. Seuss when you're drunk.

05. THE FLY (1986)

Directed by David Cronenberg

Starring Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis

WHY?
I, probably like many people, wasn't expecting much from this. I was pleasantly surprised though. Not only does it have awesome special effects... the acting is phenomenal. The slow process that Jeff Goldblum's character is going through is interesting, tragic and funny at the same time.

BEST MOMENT
When he first starts showing symptoms of change.

BEST QUOTE
[Brundle sits at a table full of junk food, and explains his altered digestive system to Veronica and her videocamera]
Seth Brundle: How does Brundlefly eat? Well, he found out the hard and painful way that he eats very much the way a fly eats. His teeth are now useless, because although he can chew up solid food, he can't digest them. Solid food hurts. So like a fly, Brundlefly breaks down solids with a corrosive enzyme, playfully called "vomit drop". He regurgitates on his food, it liquifies, and then he sucks it back up. Ready for a demonstration, kids? Here goes...
[cut to Stathis, who is watching the videotape]
Stathis Borans: Oh my God. My God!


04. THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT (2004)

Directed by Eric Bress and J. Mackeye Gruber

Starring Ashton Kutcher and Amy Smart

WHY?
After the credits rolled first time I saw this film... I was blown away. It was such a shocking and hard hitting film. It is a film of moments, some are terrifying to watch... but it kept me captivated all the way through. Plus Ashton Kutcher's acting is awesome in this!

BEST MOMENT
When he wakes up with no arms. What a shock!

BEST QUOTE
Evan: When we were kids, your dad was making a movie about "Robin Hood" or something...
Kayleigh Miller: What do you want to know, Evan?
Evan: Is... Did he... What happened in the basement?
Kayleigh Miller: Look, it was a long time ago. Is that why you came all the way back here? To ask a lot of stupid questions about "Robin Hood"?
Evan: No, I... I just think something really bad might of happened.
Kayleigh Miller: Is there a point to any of this?
Evan: Look... what ever happened, it wasn't our fault, we were kids. I mean, there is nothing that we could do to of deserved or could of done...
Kayleigh Miller: Just shut up, Evan, you're wasting your breath.
Evan: You can't hate yourself because you're dads a twisted freak.
Kayleigh Miller: Who are you trying to convince, Evan? You come all the way back here to stir up my shit just because you have a bad memory? What? Do you want me to just cry on your shoulder and tell you everything’s all better now? Well fuck you, Evan. Nothing's all better, okay? Nothing ever gets better. You know, if I was so wonderful Evan, why didn't you call me? Why did you just leave me here to rot?


03. CLOVERFIELD (2008)

Directed by Matt Reeves

Starring Michael Stahl-David and Jessica Lucas

WHY?
The most recent film on this list. I always knew from the trailers that I would probably like this film. I wasn't expecting to love it quite so much though. This film is an experience. An experience like no other. I saw this film at the cinema three times because I was so amazed but what I was seeing. It is a truly thrilling, well made and fantastically delivered film that needs to be seen by everyone.

BEST MOMENT
When the gang come in between the monster and the army!

BEST QUOTE
Beth McIntyre: [sees monster] What is that?
Hud: It's a terrible thing.
[while trying to get to a flight of stairs, Rob encounters a parasite and kills it]
Beth McIntyre: Oh my God! What is that?
Hud: I don't know! Something else! Also terrible.


02. PERFUME: STORY OF A MURDERER (2006)

Directed by Tom Twyker

Starring Ben Whishaw and Rachel Hurd-Wood

WHY?
Not many people have heard of this film, which is a shame. Then again, I get the feeling that this film would be a bit strange for a mainstream crowd. I love every moment of it though. My favourite part of a film is always the storyline, and this one is fantastic. Not only that, but it's amazingly well made with fine acting, unbelievable visuals, creepy sound and brilliant music.

BEST MOMENT
When he finds the girl with the plums... I won't say any more...

BEST QUOTE
Jean-Baptiste Grenouille: You want to make this leather smell good, don't you?
Giuseppe Baldini: Why of course, and so it shall.
Jean-Baptiste Grenouille: With Amor and Psyche by Pelissier?
Giuseppe Baldini: What ever gave you the absurd idea I would use someone else's perfume?
Jean-Baptiste Grenouille: It's all over you.


01. SIGNS (2002)

Directed by M. Night Shyamalan

Starring Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix

WHY?
Signs is one of my favourite films of all time. I will never forget the fear I felt first time, second time and third time I saw this film. Its hard to explain a lot of the time. I've never been so scared by an alien walking past a house. What sets this film apart from others is its character development. All the family are interesting to watch, and it is because everything feels so real, that the film is so terrifying. It has a hugely religious undertone which boosts the film even further into a deep, yet scary experience that I don't think has been bettered yet.

BEST MOMENT
The Mexican video tape!

BEST QUOTE
Graham Hess: People break down into two groups. When they experience something lucky, group number one sees it as more than luck, more than coincidence. They see it as a sign, evidence, that there is someone up there, watching out for them. Group number two sees it as just pure luck. Just a happy turn of chance. I'm sure the people in group number two are looking at those fourteen lights in a very suspicious way. For them, the situation is a fifty-fifty. Could be bad, could be good. But deep down, they feel that whatever happens, they're on their own. And that fills them with fear. Yeah, there are those people. But there's a whole lot of people in group number one. When they see those fourteen lights, they're looking at a miracle. And deep down, they feel that whatever's going to happen, there will be someone there to help them. And that fills them with hope. See what you have to ask yourself is what kind of person are you? Are you the kind that sees signs, that sees miracles? Or do you believe that people just get lucky? Or, look at the question this way: Is it possible that there are no coincidences?