GAME REVIEW : Killzone 2 (PS3)

KILLZONE 2 (Playstation 3)

Developed by Guerrilla Games
Published by SCEE

STORY

I'll be honest. Just like FEAR 2, I did not play the first game in the series. I thought I'd give this one a go due to its rave reviews. Therefore, I didn't really have a clue what was going on.

Nevertheless, the cutscenes are great. I really loved all the characters and the situation, I just never really had an idea what was going on as a whole. Shame really. I guess you'd of had to play the first game to know a bit more about the actual war. It left me wondering what I was fighting for, and not caring that much!

Also the ending didn't really satisfy me very much. With such great gaming narratives and twists lately (like the ending of Prince of Persia), it was disappointing. It's probably been left open for a sequel, but it just didn't click with me.

GRAPHICS

This is what everyone is talking about. And it is very true indeed. Killzone 2 does have the best graphics I've ever seen in a game so far. I consider myselt to be a true Xbox gamer, but I had to admit that this game is better looking than anything on the 360 so far.

Lighting, effects, the motion, the characters are all amazing. It is to be seen to be believed. The cut scenes all look phenomenal too... and they are created in game. No CG here.

SOUND

Also fantastic. I can't say it is as good as the graphics, simply because the sound here doesn't seem as new and shiny as the graphics on display here. It's stuff you've all heard before. The usual war and sci-fi sound effects for a game like this. Still great though.

The voice acting too is good, the stand out for me was Sean Pertwee as the General. I loved his character, and I loved his performance too.

The music is sometimes great and sometimes not. I can't say that I ever really listened or heard anything great whilst in the gameplay, but the cutscenes really shine through. A full orchestra has been used and often really makes it feel like you are watching a film.

GAMEPLAY

Hmm. I really wanted to love Killzone 2. I thought the demo was exceptional and couldn't wait to play the full game. I was disappointed though. It was the gameplay that let it down for me. The graphics and all the presentation was exactly what I expected. But I soon found that the game almost became... dare I say it... boring.

It just didn't seem to do anything new to the genre for me. A game like Halo has so many unique moments meaning that it never gets boring. One minute you're fighting with SMGs, the next you're slicing Brutes up with a sword, then taking them on in a tank. It's what makes me love Halo so much. In this though, its just shooting enemies, then shooting more enemies, then move along, then shoot enemies, then the second wave. And the process continues.

There are some vehicle sections, but they felt slightly clunky and weren't much fun. It's such a shame really, if this game had more variety I'd have loved it. But it just dragged a little towards the end. And also, I found the battles quite frustating at times. The controls felt too slow. I did adjust to them, but it still never felt great. This means that if an enemy suddenly comes up behind you, and starts shooting... you probably won't make it round in time and they'll kill me. Extremely frustrating when you're having an epic battle with very few save points and you get killed by the stupidest thing.

This game might be for you though. It was an experience. It's still one that I recommend everyone checks out at some point, but don't raise your expectations too high like I did.

BEST MOMENT

Believe it or not, my favourite moment was in the opening cutscene. It's when all the soldiers get on the dropship and suddenly it plummets from the sky extremely quickly. It takes place from a first person POV, and it really felt like some awesome ride.

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 : Watchmen

WATCHMEN

Directed by Zack Snyder

Starring Patrick Wilson and Jackie Earle Haley


PLOT

When an ex-superhero is murdered, a vigilante named Rorschach begins an investigation into the murder, which begins to lead to a much more terrifying conclusion.

WHAT I THOUGHT

I'll be honest. I was really, really looking forward to this one. After The Dark Knight was out and I'd consumed all the awesomeness from that... my thoughts turned purely to Watchmen. I hadn't read the graphic novel, though had heard nothing but praise. So in September last year... I finally bought the book. I read it. I loved it. It was so deep and different from anything I'd seen before. These were no superheroes!

After that, this year I watched the Complete Watchmen Motion Comic (which I really, really recommend too if you liked the film, or just happened to be interested!), I loved it too. Seeing all the panels come to life with music, voices and motion was wonderful. How could the film live up to it all?

The film could have gone so wrong. Many critics love it. Many critics hate it. A lot of them just don't understand it. I had everything crossed for this film.

I loved it. What a film. It's a film that I couldn't stop grinning at, because I loved every moment so much.

Let me go into a little more detail...

The main things that people are worried about is that the plot may be stretched too thin. I didn't find this. Sure, there were some parts missing, but none at all that made me annoyed they weren't there. Most were just side plots that didn't go anywhere. For instance, Rorsach's psychologist, in the book his home life is affected by his sessions with Rorsach. This isn't in the film, but then again it isn't needed. This is a different medium. The narrative focused on the main characters, and I loved that about it.

The characters are the second thing... they were very well presented too. Every main character has a chance to shine. Each was given a chapter of the graphic novel, and often these are straight on the screen with no personality lost. They are all deep characterisations. Every single character is flawed in some way, which really sets it apart from everything else.

Now to the acting. Great all around once again. Jeffrey Dean Morgan as the Comedian was a hard role to crack as he is playing a despisable character... yet somehow... you still liked him. He brings a real presence to the screen that is great.

Malin Akerman as Silk Spectre. No complaints here. I wouldn't say she was outstanding, but then again she isn't in the book either. She performed her job as well as it could've been. And yes... for anyone wondering... you do see her boobs! Haha!

Matthew Goode as Ozymandias. This was the only one I had a slight problem with. He wasn't bad. It was just his accent. It was a bit all over the place. Sometimes he sounded American, then the next moment... German. A bit odd.

Patrick Wilson as Nite Owl. I loved this role. In many ways he is the true hero of the story... and he carried it out admirably. He is overweight and impotent, but you can't help but like him all the way through. He feels the most human out of everyone.

Billy Crudup as Doctor Manhattan. I love the character of Dr Manhattan. Just what he can do really makes me geek out. Its a very hard role to do though because he shows no emotion. The trick Billy Crudup had to master was to do a good performance without any emotion. I was a big fan of his work in Big Fish, so I had high hopes. I wasn't disappointed. Dr Manhattan was done entirely in CG, which I was very pleased about because a man painted blue would have looked ridiculous. You forget about it though, his CG is done so well and the performance is so good that you believe he is real. So what if he is naked? To be honest, I was so engrossed that I didn't even notice.

Now to the standout... Jackie Earle Haley as Rorsach. What a performance. It can only be compared with Heath Ledger's Joker from last year. A psychopath... that you can't help but love. The acting is so strong underneath that mask that you root for him all the way through. When the mask comes off, you don't want it to go back on because it gets even better. Words can't really describe it. You'll have to see it.

Now, as for the ending, (SPOILERS AHEAD) it;s wide knowledge by now that is has been altered. I'm going to be honest. I didn't really like the squid in the graphic novel. I thought it was just a bit too weird and out there. I far preferred the ending in the film. Don't hate me, it's just my opinion. (SPOILERS END)

The visuals were outstanding. The greatest delight for me was just how close it was to the graphic novel. Panels are literally brought to life through beautiful art direction, flawless CG and terrific sound. Like 300... you're in for a treat on your senses. The music wasn't what I was expecting at all. It's a lot of 80's music that often juxtaposes with the act happening on the screen, but I thought this was a very strong device. Tyler Bates score also got better as the film went on, but wasn't as great as I was hoping.

If I have one nitpick... its just that the age makeup didn't work that well. After seeing Benjamin Button, I now expect better! It doesn't ruin the film, just something I wanted to get off my chest.

One thing to note... if you haven't read the graphic novel and haven't seen the film yet... prepare to open your mind. This film has been marketed as a superhero film but its not at all. This is a deep film about psychology of human behaviour. It is also incredibly shocking. Blood is everywhere. Bones are snapped. Limbs are removed. Children are eaten. And more. Prepare to be stunned... but I loved it all.

So, in conclusion to this very long review... you need to see this film. I loved every moment in it. From the huge scenes, like the prison break, to the small moments, like Walter Kovacs walking past the restaurant window. I noticed this and it gave me huge joy. I love the characters. I love the story. I love the visuals. I loved the experience, and can't wait to see it again!

BEST MOMENT

The origin of Dr Manhattan. My favourite part in the graphic novel... my favourite part in the film.

MY RATING
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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

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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.

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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!