The Inbetweeners Movie (2011)

An enjoyable watch - 3.5/5

So I saw this film last night called The Inbetweeners Movie. I would assume that the hugely popular TV series, The Inbetweeners, will be known more to our UK audience. The mix of dry, taboo humour and brilliant characters is what made the series so popular and a film was always inevitable.

What I worried about before I went in to see the film was that it wouldn't stay true to the television series and that it would prove to be unpopular. However, after watching the film, I can confirm that it retains the type of humour we have all come to love from The Inbetweeners. Cringeworthy at times, the script delivered a quick witted and fast-paced screenplay that managed to keep me entertained almost the whole way through. Admittedly it was a pretty cheesy story but it worked. However, I would say that there is a reason this type of humour works in small 30 minute programs. It did wear a little thin towards the end as the same type of jokes were repeated over and over again. Despite this the film was an enjoyable watch and exceeded my expectations.

The four main characters, played by James Buckley, Simon Bird, Joe Thomas and Blake Harrison, all impressed and retained their individual styles. It was as if the film continued directly from the TV series without any break in between. The four young actors must be praised for making this happen.

Writers Damon Beesley and Iain Morris, who worked together on the hit comedy show Flight Of The Conchords, must also be praised for coming up with such a popular group of characters who have gone on to achieve three successful series and now a film. Their blunt writing style is surely the main reason The Inbetweeners has become such a success and their comedic style cannot be overlooked.

I'm pretty sure that every single fan of the TV series will enjoy this film. It isn't the best piece of cinema ever but it proved to be an enjoyable watch that will surely leave fans wanting a sequel. If you like The Inbetweeners you'll love it. If not, I wouldn't bother.

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011)

A Terrible Way To End - 2.5/5

So I saw this film last night called Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 2 and lets me make myself very clear from the start, in my opinion it was the worst of all the Harry Potter films to date. Thats right I said it. As both the films and the books have been so popular and have been a stalwart of cinema and literature since 1997 I think people are less inclined to say anything bad about the films. Well if you don't want to read a scathing review of the final film don't read on.

Lets begin with a one word overview of about the first hour of the film. AWFUL. And no, that isn't too strong a word to use. I'm amazed that with such an amount of quality storyline handed over by J.K. Rowling that director David Yates couldn't have made more from it. Personally I haven't really enjoyed any of the films since the first four and have found major flaws in every one of the last four. The first hour of Deathly Hallows: Part 2 was simply depressingly bad. It skipped over major parts of plot and tried to focus too much on comedy. For me there should have been no place for stupid puns but somehow they found their way back. Some parts were so cheesy that they were hard to watch (especially Neville Longbottom's speech at the end) and overall the film was badly done.

The film began to pick up pace when the battle began and to be fair there was extremely effective special effects on show that did credit to those responsible. I had begun to enjoy to film after about an hour until it was again ruined by the fact that the death of one of the main characters (I don't want to spoil it for anyone) was totally skipped over and wasn't even touched upon even though a huge section was devoted to it in the books. And how about the way Ron's mum managed to defeat the second in command to Voldemort with ease? It was ridiculous! Just about the only factors that held the whole thing together as a film was the sublime performance of Ralph Fiennes as Voldemort and the special effects. That's it.

The ending was probably the worst part of the whole film. I had already read the books and so new how it would finish but I was wondering how they would do it. I didn't think they would use different actors becuase it wouldn't be a good way to end. But what they did do was truly terrible. They barely looked any different and it was cringeworthy. I'm trying not to reveal too much of what happens at this point for those who haven't seen the film or read the book.

I think the main problem with the books is that they started off as a book exclusive for children but then proved massively popular to adults alike. It is clear to see that Rowling made the story darker but she couldn't leave the children behind when finishing the story. Harry Potter should have died to save everyone else. Simple as that. But can you imagine millions of children reading how they wizarding hero had perished? It wouldn't be pretty.

The film is a HUGE dissapointment from start to finish and is an awful way to end such a series of films. However, I'm sure many will love it and I wish I could say the same. But I hated it, and that's that.

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Planet Of The Apes (1968)

Sci-fi Brilliance - 4/5

So I saw this film today called Planet Of The Apes and, after previously reviewing the rather poor 2001 Tim Burton effort, and with Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes on its way in less than a month, I thought I had better go back and see how the films all got started. Of course the 1968 version is miles apart and wholly different to the 2001 version and the list of reasons why the film featuring Charlton Heston is far better would be infinitely long. Therefore I am not going to even bother to compare the two films. I watched the Burton film first and now, after watching the original, I find it hard to believe he managed to get that film out of something that was originally so brilliant.

I used the word brilliant there because that's exactly what this film is. Brilliant. There is something about the beginning of a retro sci-fi film that lets you know that you're in for a treat. After becoming a sci-fi fan in the last few months, after watching Logan's Run and Alien, I thought it about time to watch Planet Of The Apes. It turned out to be right up my street and it was a totally magnificent two hours of film.

Let us begin with the cinematic scenes that were brought to us by director Franklin J. Schaffner. The stunning scenery was quite enthralling, as were the special effects which wouldn't have looked outdated in a film from five years ago. The final scene with the statue of liberty was extremely

Transformers: Dark Of The Moon (2011)

Breathtaking - 4.5/5

So I saw this film yesterday called Transformers: Dark Of The Moon and, as you are most probably aware, this is the third film under the Transformers franchise from director Michael Bay. Unfortunately for me it is the first film I've seen in the cinema this year! However, as I'm moving house and trying to save money, I still think I can call myself a movie buff. Anyway, on with the review...

The Transformers trilogy began with Transformers back in 2007 and my main problem with the film was that at times it was hard to see what was actually happening during the battle scenes between the Autobots and the Decepticons. Michael Bay managed to rectify this mistake with Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen in which we saw an increase in slow motion fight scenes and well thought out action. Despite this the second film was criticised by many (not including me as I thought it was better than the first. Just saying). Transformers: Dark Of The Moon improved even further on the action sequences. The film was truly stunning and you could tell an immense amount of imagination went in to creating the stunning sequences. I was lucky enough to see the film in 3D, which I would strongly advise you to do when you go to see this film, and it added a lot to the film. The fight scenes towards the end left me thinking 'HOW DO THEY DO IT'. It was truly breathtaking.

Whilst I was blown away with the visual effects on display, the plot certainly lacked substance in places and continuity proved a problem. The film was very poorly edited and in places felt rushed. I can't imagine how long the whole film was before they cut anything but even though we saw two and a half hours of film it still felt liked it skipped over large and important parts of the story. The scenes would sometimes skip ahead without really explaining what had happened and the problem wasn't just a one off but could be found all the way through. I think they rushed to get this movie to the big screen.

Although it doesn't sound it the aforementioned problems do really take a back seat when compared with everything that was right about this film. Bay managed to bring us the combination of a genuinely funny script with truly amazing and expansive action sequences that we have come to expect from the Transformers films. Whilst the story may not have been the greatest ever it didn't seem to matter when watching Optimus Prime

The Next Three Days (2010)

One Of The Films Of 2010 - 5/5

So I saw this film yesterday called The Next Three Days. You may have seen this on your DVD shelves recently but if you haven't basically it follows a desperate father attempting to break his innocent wife out of jail. Russell Crowe plays John Brennan, a school teacher left on his own when his wife (Elizabeth Banks) is put away for a murder that she didn't commit (by the way this isn't supposed to be a spoiler, it's just as much as you'll see on the back of the DVD). Now John Brennan provides Crowe with the opportunity to display a side to his acting that we rarely see. At the beginning we see his loving, playful side as he enjoys his time with his wife and his young son, played by Ty Simpkins. He actually plays the father figure extremely well and it felt good to see Crowe excelling outside of his comfort zone. Sure, later on in the film we see glimpses of the types of characters we normally see him playing, but I thought he was magnificent when he wasn't killing people.

Elizabeth Banks also stepped out of her comfort zone for her role as wife Lara Brennan. We don't really see that much from her but what we do see is her decent into suicidal tendencies after being in jail for so many years. She may play 'chick-flick' types characters often but she is certainly capable of giving a solid performance.

Back to the story, and what I liked about Crowe's character was that he was easy to relate to. Normally we see him as gun-toting action heroes but here Crowe was an ordinary dad living an ordinary life. I think the fact that he was so ordinary made the desperation in his performance so potent and effective. We see his journey

How To Make A David Lynch Film - Short Film (2011)

Damn Funny - 4/5

So I saw this short film today called How To Make A David Lynch Film. It's pretty much what it says on the tin. Literally. It's a comedic short film that focuses on the work of writer David Lynch (Eraserhead) and pokes fun at the methods he is known for.

The 9 minute film takes place in an apartment and follows a couple watching an old style 'how to' video. As you will have worked out, this one is How To Make A David Lynch Film. Despite the fact that the old fashioned 'how to' video has been utilised by many comedy films and TV shows (Dodgeball, Simpsons etc..), I didn't feel like it was cliche. It managed to be original whilst using a tried and tested method for laughs.

I would say that the film doesn't cater for all. You really have to know your David Lynch to feel included and not everyone does, as shown by interviews with members of the public about Lynch's work at the end of the film. However, writing as someone who has yet to experience Lynch, the film still managed to make me laugh. And in some ways it doesn't really matter if you know who he is or not. The film is designed to make fun of his style of film and it succeeded.

Despite obviously having a limited budget the film was extremely well edited and the cast showed their worth. Whoever played the presenter of the 'how to' film (I don't know who it was as the credits were rather confusing) was brilliant and performed his role with great confidence and timing. The actress was also notably funny.

If you're a fan of short film, comedy, or you hate David Lynch you should check this one out. You can't not laugh at it.

The film will be featuring in the upcoming Dances With Films Festival.

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010)

Decent And Solid Film - 4/5

So I saw this film a few months ago called Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 1 and I thought it was about time I went ahead and reviewed it seeing as the final installment of the series will be hitting the big screen soon. I also thought it would be a good way to go back over the film to ensure I am totally ready and up to date for the big finale in July of this year.

Lets start off by pointing out that this film had it all to do. I thought the sixth Harry Potter film (Harry Potter And The Half Blood Prince) was a massive let down and the distinct lack of any real action was obvious to see. Coming off the back of a fairly poor film such as this, one that couldn't even hold its own against the first few films, made it an uphill struggle to bring back the excitement and the mystery that any film based on magic should evoke. Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 1 definitely didn't fail to deliver in this regard. The lack of action that frustrated me so much throughout The Half Blood Prince was improved greatly and we saw some magical special effects once again. The sixth film felt as if it was simply released to

Before Sunset (2004)

Beautfully Touching - 4.5/5

So I saw this film the other day called Before Sunset. Unfortunately before I began watching it I didn't realise there had been a prequel (Before Sunrise). Luckily for me it didn't turn out to matter too much, although perhaps it would have been more touching had I seen the first film. Despite the fact I hadn't seen the prequel the film was an absolutely fantastic watch. What lead me to the film was the presence of Ethan Hawke, of whom I am a massive fan, and he proved with this performance that he deserves acclaim for his work.

For sheer acting talent you can't fault either Ethan Hawke or leading lady Julie Delpy. The amount of lines they must have had to learn for this film was itself incredible. The first scene must have lasted at least five minutes without a single cut. What Delpy and Hawke managed to do so brilliantly was make it feel like like a film and more like a real life situation along with a real life relationship. Because of this the film was touching

Prince Of Persia: The Sands Of Time (2010)

Waste Of Time - 2/5

So I saw this film the other day called Prince Of Persia: The Sands Of Time. I think an apt word to sum up the rest of this film review would be dire. With the story provided and the legacy of the video game series the film had a lot to live up to but also it had firm foundations on which to build a coherent and entertaining all out action film. What they created was a mixture of disappointing comedy and half-hearted action combined with possibly one of the worst story lines I've ever encountered. The plot is only one that really works in a video game scenario where the user determines the outcome. In a film however the viewer is left frustrated and downright angry at the outcome. I don't want to spoil the ending but it was an absolute kick in the teeth and rendered the 110 minutes of viewing totally wasted.

What really ground my gears about the film was the way in which it was written. In my opinion, if they wanted to make the video game into a film, thy should have stuck to a serious plot which could have drawn the viewer

The Illusionist (2010)

Sheer Genius - 5/5

So I saw this film yesterday called The Illusionist and if you'll remember this was one of three films nominated for an 'Academy Award For Best Animated Film' alongside How To Train Your Dragon and Toy Story 3, which sadly was eventually won by Toy Story 3 despite both the other films being better in my opinion. However, I think the Toy Story franchise was deserving of an Oscar at some point, after only previously being nominated, so in some ways I was glad it was triumphant.

The Illusionist was certainly deserving of a nomination and I think against other films it would have succeeded in winning. However, I'm glad the film got recognized for its beauty and genius and the fact it was pretty much a 90 minute silent movie that was at no point boring. That's what fascinated my abut this film. What little words there were were in a different language but through the

Cyrus (2010)

Surprisingly Good - 3.5/5

So I saw this film the other day called Cyrus and I have to say I was very surprised about the outcome. I rented this along with Let Me In to provide myself with a comedy and a horror film for the next couple of days. But I have to say that Cyrus was more than just a comedy. What's strange about the film is that the DVD cover, which shows Jonah Hill making a hand gesture towards John C. Reilly behind his mother's back, doesn't do justice to what is in the film. From that cover you'd assume a constant stream of comedy and pranks in a film similar to Step Brothers. However, the film actually contained more emotion than I expected and had more of a storyline than just a son who dislikes his mother's boyfriend.

Cyrus is now probably bordering on my favourite Jonah Hill performance. He plays a very emotionally unstable boy who can't bear to see his mother (Marisa Tomei) taken away from him and who goes out of his way to break up the relationship between Tomei and John C. Reilly's character. I saw a side to Hill's abilities that I hadn't really seen before and it was a refreshing change from his usual, if hilarious, roles. John C Reilly also went up in my estimations after seeing Cyrus in a similar way to Jonah Hill.

This film really has more to offer than it gives itself credit for. The storyline was coherent and even heartfelt at times and the acting left little to complain about. At times the story became a little frustrating but only slightly.

Cyrus really is a film that will surprise you and provide you with laughs and emotion throughout. I wouldn't have thought I would be recommending it but here I am doing it. I wouldn't have thought this one would be for everyone but it's a nice film with an equally nice story.

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Cemetery Junction (2010)

Beautiful Story - 4.5/5

So I saw this film just now called Cemetery Junction. The film is a coming-of-age tale set in 1970s Britain that is brought to us by the comedy duo that is Ricky Gervais and Steven Merchant. I always find myself going into films that either feature one of the two or is written by either of the pair with low expectations. It seems strange that the pair behind The Office could produce a film of any real meaning. I'm happy to say that I always find I am surprised by just what they achieve. Ghost Town which starred Gervais was brilliant at times and to a lesser extent so was The Invention Of Lying (although I did have some major criticisms of the film). Cemetery Junction has got to be the best movie to come from the pairing. It seems somehow strange that they can deliver such a beautiful storyline and flowing script but I think this film finally brought me round.

The film itself was beautiful in many ways. I enjoyed how the Gervais/Merchant charm and witticism was retained but surrounded in a seventies coming-of-age story. I'm sure the two used experiences from their own childhoods when they wrote the script as it seemed hugely genuine and heartfelt at times. The film expressed fairly deep messages in an effective way and at no point was it cheesy.

I think the main reason this film was so good was the casting of the main characters. Lead man Christian Cooke lacked some charisma at times but delivered a fairly solid performance. Stand outs for me had to be Tom Hughes (Bruce), Jack Doolan (Snork) and in particular the fabulously retro Felicity Jones who played Julie. Her performance was the most moving for me and I'd be very surprised if the performance doesn't help her on to bigger and better things. Gervais' own character as Freddie's dad retained the Gervais charm and typical blunt comedy which was nice to see.

A you can see by now, I found very little to fault this film on. The ending was absolutely brilliant and without attempting to spoil it too much for those of you who haven't seen it, how refreshing was it not to see a kiss for once? The film was one that left you with a smile at the end. Any film that can do that is certainly worth a watch.

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Megamind (2010)

At Least It's Funny - 3/5

So I saw this film just now called Megamind which you'll remember as being Will Ferrell's latest animated film. The story followed  the journey of Megamind, a blue, round-headed supervillain in his battles against Metro Man. He then goes on to control Metro City, get bored of all his power, create a nemesis for himself who turns evil and consequently causes Megamind to save the city and get the girl. Hmmmmm. It's all a bit predictable and it feels as if it has been done before even though movies of this type normally focus on the 'good guy'. Despite the way this film tried to break the stereotypical comedy/animation superhero movie (Monsters Vs Aliens, The Incredibles) by focusing on the other side, by the end it became exactly like all these other previous films.

That's what this film was. I must say it started off quite good. The comedy was flowing and it managed to feel fresh within the genre. By about half way through with the creation of Titan, played by Jonah Hill, the storyline began to lose my interest and by the end we all knew what was happening. And just for the record, Jonah should should never ever ever at any point in a film play a superhero. His voice is totally inappropriate for this type of role and no matter how many times he has done it before, he should stick to the usual geeky and hilarious characters we are used to seeing him in.

Despite the poor casting of Hill, I think Will Ferrell was a good pick to play Megamind. He manages to bring such comedic value just with the inclusion of his voice and the lack of a decent plot-line didn't seem as important when his character was making you laugh. At least they got that bit right. Tina Fey should have been given a more comedy-based role too. What's the point of casting her in a boring part that could have been played by anyone? If you get someone funny on board, use them. Brad Pitt was well cast as Metro Man. His voice brings an air of arrogance that you usually don't get from him from his on-screen performances. Aside from the casting, the animation was pretty awesome. DreamWorks and the animation team behind it certainly did a good job of that.

This film was by no means amazing and, speaking as a fan of Monsters Vs Aliens, this film just couldn't stand up to movies similar to it. Apparently a sequel is on the way so I think I'll be missing that one.Saying that the film was funny and not every film has that to boast.

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Planet Of The Apes (2001)

On The Fence - 3/5

So I saw this film the other day called 'Planet Of The Apes'. This was the 2001 Tim Burton remake that has taken a lot of stick since its release but I thought I'd offer up a review before the new film (Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes) is released. Unfortunately I have not at this time seen the 1968 original but will be adding it to the to-see list. With this remake in mind I can see why it has taken a lot of stick. However, the film had its moments and I wouldn't totally write it off as a mediocre sci-fi film. I think everyone gives it such bad reviews in comparison to the original. I have the benefit of it being my first foray into the Planet Of The Apes realm. I may have to edit this review upon seeing the original however.

In terms of its storyline the film was far-fetched at times and even laughable in places. Despite a sublime costume/make-up showing the film still felt comedic in places it shouldn't have. The special effects left much to be desired towards the end and I would challenge anyone to try and spot the numerous amount of mistakes that caused me annoyance at the start of the film. Mark Wahlberg gave one of his breathless and very monotonous performances just as he did in The Happening which was something I could have done without. The stand outs in terms of acting in this one would have to go to Tim Roth, who played Thade, and Paul Giamatti who was endearing as well as being slimy as the slave controller Limbo. I mentioned earlier how effective the make-up was in the film and this was proved with the fact that by the end of the film I was looking to the credits to see who was who. I didn't even realise that Michael Clarke Duncan from The Green Mile was in it until now.

As I have said I'm sure that upon watching the original I will realise that this movie was poor in comparison but for now I'll say it's just O.K. Nothing more nothing less. I wouldn't recommend it but at the same time I wouldn't condemn someone for wanting to watch it. You'll have to use your own judgement on this one.

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The Road (2009)

Emotional and Shocking - 4/5

So I saw this film a few weeks ago called 'The Road'. The film consisted of dad Viggo Mortensen and son Kodi Smit-McPhee trying to live and survive in an apocalyptic world with many dangers. Films about post-apocalyptic worlds always grab my attention for some reason. They are always so cinematic and visually stunning. Films like 28 Days Later, Logan's Run and The Book Of Eli are so visually entertaining. There is something so awe-inspiring in seeing a well known landmark half buried in the ground of an entire city deserted because it relates to places people themselves may have been. I think therein lies the magic of post-apocalyptic films. The Road certainly fitted perfectly into this genre and was indeed as if not more visually beautiful than any of the other films mentioned. What The Road also included was an emotional father and son based story with some truly shocking and even upsetting moments.

I can't think of many types of film fans who wouldn't enjoy this film. Yes, at times the story became monotonous due to the similar setting the whole way through, but overall it was brilliant. It will appeal to fans of gore, horror, thriller and tearjerkers alike. This is due in large part to the acting on show. Mortensen's couldn't have been better as the father. His performance felt like it was from the heart. You could feel the helplessness of their situation through his performance and he evoked strong emotions. Charlize Theron's small appearance as his wife was equally emotional and Kodi Smit-McPhee delivered a mature performance from such a young actor. The relatively unknown Michael K. Williams (Thief) provided us with probably the best scene in the film and held his own against the more well known actors. And did anyone realise the old man was Robert Duvall before the credits? Pretty good make-up there.

Some viewers may find this film upsetting and if you aren't patient this film could have you turning it off before it gets going. However if you give it a chance this film can really surprise you. I wouldn't say everyone will enjoy it but everyone has the potential to.

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Machete (2010)

Confusing - 2.5/5

So I saw this film just now called 'Machete'. This was the Rodriguez's film about a man fighting against those who have wronged him and fighting against injustice to the Mexican people. I'm quite unsure as to just what film genre this one fits into. I can't work out if it was trying to make fun of itself along the way or if it was a totally serious film. If the attempt was to make it into the later then it was a failed one. The only way I would recommend this film is for the entertainment value. It was similar to 'Black Dynamite' in a way, it seemed as if everything was over exaggerated in a piss take way. However, unlike with 'Black Dynamite', I felt like this movie was tring to make a serious point. I didn't really get it.

In terms of entertainment value and downright manliness, main man Danny Trejo was fairly good. He was probably the pick of the bunch and some of the action and fighting scenes he was involved in were pretty impressive. On a side note, take a look at Trejo's profile on IMDb. I don't think I've ever seen an actor with quite that many roles. 209 to be precise! He's a busy man.

Back to the film and 'Machete' provided Robert De Niro's worst film role. He played a racist, ignorant US Senator, and quite badly at that. Lindsey Lohan's role was slightly funny because it felt as if she didn't have to do much acting to play it convincingly! Jessica Alba was poor and I don't think this will go down as one of Steven Seagal's best. However I would applaud Michelle Rodriguez for her performance. I'm beginning to be quite a big fan of hers; I think she manages to portray emotion well and can certainly kick some ass.

To conclude, I wouldn't recommend this film unless you enjoyed 'Black Dynamite' and are going to watch it from a similar perspective. If you are looking for a genuinely good film with an effective plot you've come to the wrong place.

The Matador (2005)

Brosnan's Best Role - 3.5/5

So I saw this film a while ago called 'The Matador' and I think I can honestly say it's the only film I've ever seen that I enjoyed Pierce Brosnan's performance. I'm entirely fed up of Brosnan's monotonous ramblings and one-dimensional performances these days (The Ghost Writer) which meant that his role as an outspoken hit man travelling the globe was totally refreshing. I actually saw a glimpse of his talents for once. The role brought him out of his shell and proved he can perform in the anti-hero role effectively. If you've lost you faith in Brosnan like I had I urge you to watch this film. It cannot make up for the bore that is his career but it sheds a new light on the man. The is his best film since 'Tomorrow Never Dies' and I never liked that film for his performance but rather, watching it as a young boy, for the explosions and cool cars.

I always find Greg Kinnear's bumbling performances of men lacking self-confidence enjoyable and 'The Matador' provides another similar role for him. Obviously I've never met him but he seems like a nice guy, the kind of guy you could have a beer with. He always comes across that way to me and I think that's why I enjoyed his performance here. He plays a character called Danny Wright who, after a major business setback, finds himself becoming friends with a hit man (Brosnan) and learning to relax. No it doesn't sound like one to watch but I'm not doing justice to the performances. Lets just say the film is better than it should be.

In short the film contains my favourite Brosnan performance to date and another Kinnear role that will make you smile. This won't be a movie everyone will like but it's worth a go.

Buried (2010)

Astounding Thriller - 4.5/5

So I saw this film the other night called 'Buried' and I really don't understand that Lovefilm users have only rated this film three stars. The back of the DVD promised it would be unlike anything I'd ever seen and to a large extent this proved to be true. I've never seen a film set entirely in one place like that before. I can see why to many this may have proved boring and a reason to switch off the film half way through but for me it enhanced the 'thriller' side to the film and made it even more captivating. I'm not a massive fan of Ryan Reynolds but in this one he actually managed to surprise me and delivered an emotional and genuine performance. There was indeed very little about this film that I disliked.

What amazed me about this film was the ending. If you haven't seen it I won't ruin it but for those who have I would say the film had to end that way. It wouldn't have been half the film it was if it didn't. It was one of those films that leaves you stunned and speechless upon its ending. I actually felt a little sad too and had to tell myself that "it's just a movie". Now, if you agree with the many who put this film down on the aforementioned website, then you'll probably be shouting WHAT at the computer screen. I think this reaction stems from the fact the only person we see is Ryan Reynolds, who many wouldn't rate outside of rom-coms, and the fact the entire film is set in one place. I can understand these opinions but I allowed the film to take me away with it and I'm so glad I watched it.

If anyone is a fan of CSI you'll have seen the episode where that guy is buried alive. I say 'that guy' because I think it's the only episode I've ever seen all the way through. However, what an episode it was. Imagine that episode but as a film. And that's what 'Buried' is. It manages to be a fast-paced thriller that captivates and astounds you. The ending will blow you away.

This film is like Marmite, you either love it or hate it.

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Barton Fink (1991)

Turturro's Finest Hour - 4/5

So I saw this film just now called 'Barton Fink'.It is the story of a frustrated writer in Los Angeles desperately looking for inspiration whilst remaining committed to the plight of the common man. The film was headed up by Coen Brothers favourites John Tuturro and John Goodman and can certainly be described as Turturro's finest hour. It is funny but it seems that the Coen Brothers are the only real fans of these two actors. They bring out their brilliance in a way no other director has and since the pair have stopped using these two actors as much as they did their careers seem to have taken a downward spiral. What a shame this is. Turturro's performance in this one is award worthy but what do we see him in now? 'Transofmers' and maybe 'Anger Management' spring to mind but these don't stand up to his earlier work, especially that of the 90s. It seems incredible that after performances such as this Tuturro remains a B list actor who rarely is given the chance of a leading role. Going back to the subject of awards, this one was nominated for three Oscars. Alas, Turturro was not a nominee and instead the nomination was for Best Actor In A Supporting Role. Goodman? Nope. It was for Michael Lerner. How ridiculous.

To a lesser extent the same can be said of John Goodman. The Coen Brothers always manage to bring out a crazy and sometimes psychotic side to Goodman and this can not only be seen in 'Barton Fink' but in the crude character he played in 'The Big Lebowski'. Again, where is he these days? The only name the average movie watcher would recognise here is Steve Buscemi and I feel this is a real shame. I just can't see how other directors have not picked up on the talent of these two.

Anyway back to the film. It is a film based around frustration. We feel Turturro's frustration through his performance and perhaps because the film was based on the true experiences of writers block, during the creation of the film 'Miller's Crossing', of the directorial duo. The film is so effective in showing the pain that they themselves went through and you can feel how genuine it is all the way through. We get another typically Coen Brothers ambiguous ending just like we did with 'A Serious Man' but all in all the film was a brilliant one.

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The 'burbs (1989)

Timeless Classic - 4/5

So I saw this film a while ago called 'The 'burbs' and it's one of those films that (rightfully) is on TV all the time. It's the perfect afternoon movie that you delight in finding will be on. It's also one of those films you can watch over and over again without getting bored. Tom Hanks creates such a brilliant character and the fact that the entire film is set in one street makes it easy for people to relate to. The gossip in the community is hilarious and helps create a riotous comedy. The reason films set in one street work is that the viewer feels so included in the plot. Other films such as this would be 'Disturbia' and 'American Beauty' but I think films such as this take so much inspiration from 'The 'burbs'. To me it is the original film of this type.

As mentioned earlier, Hanks gives a brilliant performance in the lead role, and the film makes a superb addition to his early comedic work such as 'Big' which then helped him move on to his more serious work in the early 90's. To see Hanks in these roles gives such pleasure because he manages to be brilliantly funny and he manages to play so many different characters, showing his diversity as an actor. Carrie Fisher gives a solid performance as Hanks' wife Carol and a young Corey Feldman provides some laughs throughout. Another stand out performance was that of Rick Docommun who plays Hanks' friend Art.

The great thing about this film is that it brings so many childhood pleasures. If you were lucky enough to see this film for the first time when you were a child the film creates even more magic every time it is shown. I'm sure this film will keep its popularity and cult following for many years to come and can certainly be called a timeless classic.

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