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Blu-ray Review: “Oasis: Supersonic”(2016)

November 11, 2016

“Oasis: Supersonic” (2016)

Documentary

Running Time: 122 minutes

Director: Mat Whitecross

Featuring: Noel Gallagher, Liam Gallagher

Supersonic by Oasis:

I need to be myself

I can’t be no one else

I’m feeling supersonic

Give me gin and tonic

You can have it all but how much do you want it?

You make me laugh

Give me your autograph

Can I ride with you in your BMW?

You can sail with me in my yellow submarine

Its safe to say that if you don’t like this documentary then you just don’t get what makes Oasis a great band. Yes I am not using the past tense, but the present, as listening to their first two albums is like having the self proclaimed “greatest band in the world” still present in our lives. They were brave, talented, drunk and egomaniacs, we loved them for it – they had no peers and that’s just a fact.

Asif Kapadia the director of “Senna” (2009) and “Amy” (2014) bring us another unique look into possibly one of the most misunderstood bands of our time – Oasis – of course analyzing the Gallagher Brothers relationship with each other and other members of the band is complex and the current interviews prove that as it becomes clear that this has a “Rashomon” (1950) like structure to it.

The film starts and ends with their dominating and triumphant performances at Knebworth in 1996, where they were at their peak and the 250,000 fans that were there can attest to that. The film through archive footage and interviews (the interviews are archive as well as current) charts the journey from scrappy upstarts to the biggest band in the world, their highs and lows, their fights (and there are plenty of those) to the fun they had – and the Spinal Tap like rotating of bass players.

The bands tours around the UK and from their to Japan and America and back again show a band that was having fun and leaving a wake of chaos in their paths – and the growing skill of Liam as a front man and Noel as a songwriter – and I would argue the music he wrote on their first two albums stacks up against any songwriter ever.

It’s a great journey and Noel states it simply over footage of those legendary Knebworth concerts that it was not about him or the band or even the music – it was about the people that watched them, and witnessed what was happening at the time and loving their music – Noel and Liam have fond memories of that concert and that point in time – more than one band member says maybe they should have stopped then but as Noel says once you kiss the sky you want to keep chasing it – I for one am glad they did.

As far as music goes to my ears the songs haven’t aged a day and are just as great now as they were then and that might come down to the wall of sound production as listening to it only makes you want to sing along.

This is a must watch!

Enjoy and turn it up up up!
Blu-ray Reviews: “Stir Crazy” (1980) & “See No Evil, Hear No Evil” (1989)

November 10, 2016

“Stir Crazy” (1980)

Comedy

Running Time: 111 minutes

Director: Sidney Poitier

Featuring: Richard Pyor, Gene Wilder, Jobeth Williams

Rory: “That’s Grossberger. The biggest mass murderer in the history of the southwest? My dear, he killed his entire family and all of his relatives in one weekend and then he killed some more people that reminded him of his family!”

This is one of nine films the great Sidney Poitier directed and is possibly his most successful in terms of box office and critical reviews – it is one of the best Pryor/Wilder films around and deserves a look as it has recently been re-released on Blu-ray and looks great.

As with most broad comedies the plot is rather simple and is this case is about two best friends set-up for something they didn’t do, sent to prison, however, no prison cell can keep them locked in for long. Harry (Richard Pryor) is a waiter recently fired and Skip (Gene Wilder) works as a store detective also recently fired. While on a break from everything they are arrested mistakenly arrested for robbing a bank and so from there hilarity ensues.

While the duo, who are on break, two men steal the costumes and rob the bank. Harry and Skip are arrested, whisked through a speedy trial and handed 125-year jail sentences. Their court-appointed lawyer, Len Garber, advises them to wait until he can appeal their case.

This was the second of four movies that Wilder and Pryor appeared in together and this is a perfect example of how they would be an odd couple of sorts and muddle through a comedic adventure. Its wonderful watching these two great comic actors at work and one can only wish they had made more films together.

“See No Evil Hear No Evil” (1989)

Comedy

Running Time: 103 minutes

Director: Arthur Hiller

Featuring: Richard Pryor, Gene Wilder, Joan Severance and Kevin Spacey

Capt. Braddock: “Okay no more bullshit!”

Capt. Braddock: [to Dave, talking fast] “was there or wasn’t there a woman?”

Dave: “Are you serious?”

Capt. Braddock: “Yes I’m goddamn serious.”

Dave: “Fuzzy Wuzzy was a woman?”

Capt. Braddock: “What the hell is he taking about?”

Wally: “He reads lips. You’re talking too fast.”

Capt. Braddock: [to Dave, talking slowly] “Was there… a wom-an… pres-ent?”

Dave: [to Capt. Braddock, talking slowly] “Yes. There was… a wom-an… pres-ent.”

Capt. Braddock: “Why is he talking like that?”

Wally: [to Capt. Braddock, talking slowly] “Because he’s deaf… not stup-id.”

A blind man Wally (Richard Pryor) and a deaf man Dave (Gene Wilder) meet when Wally applies for a job in Dave’s New York City concession shop. After a brief period of confusion and antagonism, Wally and Dave become close friends. Dave reads lips and guides Wally when they travel, and Wally tells Dave about invisible sounds and what people say behind his back.

Once day the guys witness a murder at their shop and from there they are on the run from the police and the people that committed the crime.

Many people judge this film quite harshly but it was the first film of theirs I saw in cinemas and so has a special place in my heart. After this film the quality of their output together and alone started to decline – but to be fair at this point both were legendary artists in multiple fields.

I recommend both of these films as I think they are both classic examples of comedy films with real plots and narratives.

If you enjoyed these then try:

“Blazing Saddles (1974)

“Young Frankenstein (1974)

“Silver Streak” (1976)

“The Toy” (1982)

Actor Gene Wilder, left, gets a kiss from co-star Joan Severance during a premiere benefit for their new movie See No Evil, Hear No Evil Wednesday, May 11, 1989, New York. The benefit was held for the New York League for the Hard of Hearing. (AP Photo/Ron Frehm)
Film Review: “Hell or High Water” (2016)

November 10, 2016

“Hell or High Water ” (2016)

Thriller

Running Time: 120 minutes

Director: David Mackenzie

Featuring: Ben Foster, Chris Pine and Jeff Bridges

T-Bone Waitress: “I’ve been working here for 44 years. Ain’t nobody ever ordered nothing but a T-Bone steak and baked potato. Except one time, this asshole from New York ordered a trout, back in 1987. We ain’t got no goddamned trout.”

Old Man: “You fellas robbin’ the bank?”

Tanner Howard: “What’s it look like, old man?”

Old Man: “But you ain’t Mexicans.”

Having heard early reviews of this movie I had been looking forward to watching this film for some time, and it did not let me down, from the rugged depressed landscapes, to the real life characters, as well as the performances from all the actors. The inhabit their roles like they were born to them with a deserved mention of Chris Pine in a role that he has been waiting for a long time. I will mention him again later but he is a revelation in this role, and i would like to see him rewarded for it.

Plot and narrative wise “Hell or High Water” is pretty tight, it takes place in West Texas, where we find divorced father Toby Howard (Chris Pine) and his ex-con brother Tanner (Ben Foster) carrying out early morning robberies of two branches of the (fictional) Texas Midlands Bank. They plan to commit several small-scale bank robberies over the course of a few days. Though the robberies are well planned, Tanner’s wild nature leads to him taking unnecessary risks. It is revealed that their mother has recently died, leaving their ranch in debt due to a reverse mortgage, which, if not paid off in a few days, will result in foreclosure on the property. Toby is determined to pay off the mortgage and, because oil has recently been discovered on the land, he plans to sell the oil rights in order to pay for a comfortable life for his estranged sons.

While on the run they do not appear on either the local polices or FBI’s radar because of the low amount taken but they do come to the attention of two Texas Rangers, Marcus Hamilton (Jeff Bridges) and Alberto Parker (Gil Birmingham), are sent to catch the robbers. Hamilton, who is close to retirement, quickly determines the brothers’ methods and personalities.

From here the film really gets going and the description of the plot will end here to avoid any possible spoilers but this film will not end how you might think – after all many of the characters have been raised in similar environments over an eighty year period and have seen their homes and economy change so much.

There are three main elements of this film I absolutely loved and they are in no particular order, the transportation of a classic film noir into a socially conscious Western Neo Noir that captivates with its story and takes into account the real stresses on human life in dealing with their jobs, lifestyles, choices made and to make as well the human condition. The frailty each of us faces in our daily lives – it is also about choices and the consequences of those choices and where we are led by them.

The direction is simple but effective using the natural surrounds of the country and representing Texas in a kind of backward way where people say what they think and everyone has a gun – but there is always someone with a bigger one.

Finally the key to the believability and success of this film relies on the four main characters led I believe by the brilliant Chris Pine fresh of playing Captain Kirk it is great to see him reacting without special effects and playing someone real who has a family and motivations many people can understand especially in poor rural town s in the US. Jeff Bridges and Ben Foster give their normal great character performances but I do believe it is Pine’s show and it is fantastic.

I recommend this without hesitation.

If you enjoyed this try:

“No Country for Old Men” (2007)

“Cold in July” (2014)
Blu-ray Review: “The Amityville Horror Collection”

November 8, 2016

The Amityville Horror Collection

The Amityville Horror Blu-ray collection brings together for the first time three installments of this franchise that was, and still does hold a unique place in horror history, a group of films based on an alleged true story, and one that still fascinates to this day. In fact the first portion of “The Conjuring 2” (2016) covers the Amityville Hauting and haunts that film to its conclusion. There is even a remake/reboot coming to theatre next year – the second after the lackluster 2005 remake with Ryan Reynolds. Lets have a look at each of the films in the set:

“The Amityville Horror” (1979)

Directed by: Stuart Rosenberg

Featuring: James Brolin, Margot Kidder, Rod Steiger

Kathy Lutz: “I just wish that… all those people hadn’t died here. I mean… ugh! A guy kills his whole family. Doesn’t that bother you?”

George: “Well, sure, but… houses don’t have memories.”

The film that started it all, “The Amityville Horror” is really nothing more than another in a long line of haunted house films, a tradition still alive in many movies being made today – they are one of the classic horror tropes and you will recognize many aspects of this film’s story and scares existing in many others. Of course this one is based on an alleged true story and boasts a cast that for its time was pretty significant. Every time I have seen this film I look forward to the appearance of Rod Steiger as a priest besieged by flies while blessing the home of the newly arrived Lutz’s.

This first film revolves around George (James Brolin) and Kathy Lutz (Margot Kidder), and their newly merged family, moving into a riverfront home in the small town of Amityville. The house is a seemingly tranquil retreat except for one minor detail: The man who lived there prior to the Lutz family brutally killed his wife and children. Even with this knowledge, George and Kathy decide to purchase the house. As they begin unpacking their belongings, the Lutz family discovers strange things happening to them-odd nightmares, voices in the hall, and a feeling of madness that will drive them to the brink of sanity.

This film has a strong pedigree with the actors and workman director Stuart Rosenberg who uses jump scares to highlight what could be pretty mundane scenes. Needless to say the family is terrorized and there is ending to the film that will be familiar anyone who has ever seen a haunted house film.

Special Features:

Audio Commentary — Dr. Hans Holzer, expert in parapsychology and author of Murder in Amityville, shares his thoughts and expertise on the history of the family, the house, and the movie itself.

“For God’s Sake, Get Out!” (1080i/60, 22 min) — A short retrospective with James Brolin and Margot Kidder talking about their careers and their involvement with this production.

Haunted Melodies (HD, 10 min) — A recent interview with composer Lalo Schifrin discussing his career, influences and his creative approach to creating scores for horror movies

Trailers (HD) and Still Gallery (HD)

“The Amityville Horror II: The Possession” (1982)

Directed by: Damiano Damiani

Featuring: James Olson, Burt Young, and Rutanya Alda |

Mr. Booth, the Lawyer: [at the Montelli trial] “… Your Honor, it is my intention to prove that Sonny Montelli is a victim of demonic possession – that is, possession by the Devil – and therefore innocent of the charges placed against him.”

This second installment in the Amityville series is a “”prequel”” which traces the events leading up to The Amityville Horror. In Amityville II: The Possession, the Montelli family moves into the Amityville house with the demonic looking windows. The family’s patriarch, Anthony (Burt Young, Rocky), is a brutish father with a timid wife, Dolores (Rutanya Alda), two small children, and two teenagers, Patricia (Diane Franklin, Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure) and Sonny (Jack Magner). After only a few days in their new home, strange occurrences take root; the cellar produces a nasty amount of flies and feces. Malevolent voices reverberate through the halls. And most disturbing, Sonny begins to have visions of murdering his entire family. The events that follow produce a battle between good and evil that ultimately pave the way to one of the greatest horrors Amityville has ever experienced.

Whilst there was some originalty in making this a prequel rather than a more traditional sequel this film falls down in many ways, mostly it is not based on anything that happened at the house and there are many inconsistencies between the first film and the second.

This is worth watching only as a curio and once watched you will probably never bother again.

Special Features:

Audio Commentary — Alexandra Holzer, professional ghost hunter, author of Growing up Haunted: A Ghostly Memoir and daughter of Dr. Hans Holzer, provides a horribly boring commentary track. Not only are there huge gaps of silence, but the times she does talk, she spends narrating and pointing out the most mundane, useless details. This ranks as one of the worst commentaries ever.

Continuing the Hunt (HD, 29 min) — The longest featurette is sadly given to Alexandra Holzer, the most boring, uninteresting person who has little connection to the Amityville legend other than being the daughter of Dr. Holzer. Talking in all seriousness about the paranormal and the unfounded stories surrounding the house, she talks extensively and in great detail about her father, his research, and his books.

A Mother’s Burden (HD, 14 min) — Recent Interview with actress Rutanya Alda reminiscing on the production.

Family Matters (HD, 14 min) — Another recent interview with actress Diane Franklin talking about her career, her involvement on this production and sharing her thoughts on the finished product.

Adapting Amityville (HD, 12 min) — Interview with screenwriter Tommy Lee Wallace discussing his interests on the subject, his thoughts on the real legend, his involvement on the project and his aspiration for doing a prequel and working with Damiani.

The Possession of Damiani (HD, 6 min) — The late director Damiano Damiani talks enthusiastically about his involvement, his creative approach to the script and his favorite aspects of the movie.

Father Tom’s Memories (HD, 4 min) — Actor Andrew Prine is given a few minutes to share his thoughts and memories.

Trailer (HD) — Two theatrical previews: one in English and the other in French.

Still Gallery (HD)

“The Amityville Horror III-D” (1983)

Directed by: Richard Fleischer

Featuring: Tony Roberts, Tess Harper, Robert Joy

Melanie: [to John] “I don’t want another one of your rational explanations, John. I know what I experienced, and I’m not crazy.”

In this third film the story is based around John Baxter (Tony Roberts) who is a psychic investigator who spends his time debunking “”experts”” of the occult. John and his wife, Nancy (Tess Harper), are recently separated with a young daughter, Susan (Lori Loughlin). John haphazardly decides to purchase the infamous Amityville house and moves in, unaware of the horrible dangers that lie inside. As John spends more and more time inside the house, he begins to endanger not only himself but also his family, friends and coworkers.

The idea of 3D was used to get more people into theatres to watch what had become a tired series of movies, unfortunately it didn’t help and didn’t work, this is not a step up from the previous film and killed of this series until the remake in 2005.

Special Features:

A Chilly Reception (HD, 10 min) — A recent interview with actress Candy Clark sharing a few memories from the production, comments on the special effects and working with the cast & crew.

Trailer (HD) and Still Gallery (HD)
Streaming Review: “Gleason” (2016)

November 2, 2016

“Gleason” (2016)

Documentary

Running Time: 101 minutes

Director: Clay Tweel

Paul Gleason: “I’m afraid to walk in public, because people look at me. But I’m not going to stop. I’m afraid because if I want to commune with my friend Shad (Meier), I have to ask him to cut my chicken for me. But I did it. And I’m afraid to go back and see my teammates and coaches because I know that I’ll feel envy. But I’m going to do it anyway. Because fear is just a feeling, and if you can acknowledge that fear, digest that fear and overcome it, the rewards are incredible.”

Illness and terminal illness are a long standing trope in fictional films or films made about real people – however in the past fifteen years there has been a trend of people creating documentaries about themselves or loved ones who are facing the struggle of a terminal illness – this is the main thrust of “Gleason” (2016), what makes this unique is the main characters ties to a city that has recovered from one of the worst man made disasters in history, new Orleans. The disease in this case is ALS.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease and motor neuron disease (MND), is a specific disease that causes the death of neurons, which control voluntary muscles. Some also use the term “motor neuron disease” for a group of conditions of which ALS is the most common. ALS is characterized by stiff muscles, muscle twitching, and gradually worsening weakness due to muscles decreasing in size. This results in difficulty in speaking, swallowing, and eventually breathing. The average survival from onset to death is two to four years. About 10% survive longer than 10 years. In 2014 videos of the ice bucket challenge went viral on the Internet and increased public awareness.

This film follows former professional football player Steve Gleason after he is diagnosed with ALS and decides to make a video diary for his unborn son, as he, his wife, and their friends and family work to raise money for ALS patients as his disease progresses. Gleason is especially well known for his blocked punt in a 2006 game that became a symbol of recovery in New Orleans in the team’s first home game after Hurricane Katrina, a event so important that it is immortalized outside the stadium where it took place in bronze.

Through the running time of this film we see the highs and lows of both Steve and all of his family. Steve starts to accept what is happening to him and has to decide at some point about his future. Michel, his wife is frank in all of the footage and is very honest in all of the interviews. She finds it hard and once their son is born it is truly effecting to see how a one year old can operate better than his own father.

What is quite different about this documentary is the courage that Steve shows in almost all the scenes and we also see him become a catalyst for change in terms of helping other ALS sufferers receive some relief as well as helping to make their short-term goals a reality. Steve ends up creating new laws that will assist ALS sufferers and families equip themselves with tools and equipment that the federal government will pay for.

This is a heart wrenching documentary but it has a point to it and will be of benefit to people who are suffering from any disease as wll as their families and support people – I recommend this highly as it covers many bases in its running time.

If you enjoyed this then watch:

“The Theory of Everything” (2014)

“The Times of Harvey Milk” (1984)

“The Suicide Tourist” (2007)
Film Review: “Arrival” (2016)

October 31, 2016

“Arrival” (2016)

Drama/Science Fiction

Running Time: 116 minutes

Director: Denis Villeneuve

Featuring: Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Forest Whittaker and Michael Stuhlbarg

Dr. Louise Banks: “We need to make sure that they understand the difference between a weapon and a tool. Language is messy and sometimes one can be both.”

Denis Villeneuve’s latest film “Arrival” is much like each of his previous films a departure from what he has produced before. This film in terms of plot and narrative is as far as you can get from “Sicario” (2015) (his last movie about drugs and the Mexico/US border) but there has not been a drop in quality or commitment to the film-making – this, like his previous efforts is nothing short of excellent.

“Arrival” is one of those films that cannot be talked about too specifically, otherwise any potential twists or surprises that may be within the film could ruin the experience – this holds true to the last quarter of Villeneuve’s “Prisoners” (2012) – so below I will offer only a brief synopsis of the plot of the film and will not even approach the narrative – of course that may be a spoiler in itself.

The plot of the film revolves around the arrival of multiple spaceships touching down (not literally) across the globe; in response, individual governments assign elite team’s to investigate. The US mobilize language expert Louise Banks (Amy Adams), mathematician Ian Donnelly (Jeremy Renner), and US Army soldier Colonel Weber (Forest Whitaker). As the film moves through the processes of trying to find the answers to the visitors, the Earth teeters on the verge of global war – problems start coming up that none of them may be able to answer and it may take the entire planet to come together to avert a global catastrophe.

The film is very definitely Amy Adams picture, and she appears in almost every single scene, Adams is captivating in the way she approaches her role and it is through her performance that this film succeeds or fails, all on her shoulders. The other aspect of Adams performance is that the majority of her shots are filmed in close-up, so that at no time can she disappear into the background of any shot – as the story unfolds, the audience begins to understand why it is Adams story, and how the rest of the cast fits in around her character. Adams foil in the film is the excellent Jeremy Renner who immediately recognizes his role within this global drama, and understands that he must support Adams character throughout, whatever it is they are both involved in.

Ever since alien invasion films have been produced they have taken many forms and as special effects get better it seems that it is easier to make a huge action blockbuster with a limit plot and a maximum amount of action. However, over the years there has been the odd counter argument for more thoughtful films, such as the 2013 film “Under the Skin” a truly original piece of work on a low budget, but with much to say about humanity and our reactions given certain situations. With “Arrival” Villeneuve has managed to take a modestly budgeted film (reported to be US$50 million) and paint a picture on the largest canvas, and yet make one of the most intimate and satisfying Science Fiction films I have seen. The story is wholly original with believable characters, and there are really no cheap tricks within the story as it rings true to how people might react to a (possible) hostile force.

If you like dramatic science fiction films with organically complicated narratives that revolve around simple and universal plots, then this film is for you.

The movie starts in one small location, but it quickly evolves into a larger narrative, about the differences that exist in the world and the trust people must have to really co-operate on a global threat. This story acts as a metaphor for any number of things that threaten our planet, from war, climate change to the political events that are unfolding even now.

This is a must see film and I can tell it will have a long life through awards season, and beyond.

If you enjoyed this film then try:

“The Man Who Fell to Earth” (1976)

“Morons from Outer Space” (1985)

“The Day the Earth Stood Still” (1951)

“War of the Worlds” (2005)
Film Review: “Doctor Strange” (2016)

October 28, 2016

“Doctor Strange” (2016)

Wong: Heroes like the Avengers protect the world from physical dangers. We safeguard it against more mystical threats.

Running Time: 115 minutes

Director: Scott Derrickson

Featuring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Benedict Wong, Benjamin Bratt, Tilda Swinton, Mads Mikkelsen

Wong: Heroes like the Avengers protect the world from physical dangers. We safeguard it against more mystical threats.

I feel like I have to start any Disney Marvel Cinematic Universe review by saying I grew up on Marvel and DC comics, and for many reasons always loved the Marvel Universe a lot more, mainly because the characters were relatable, and so more real to me as a young guy. One thing my friends and i used to do was to create casting choices for the possible movie that would star your favorite character, and now these are all coming to life with some of the most popular actors around – Score!

Now we are in the MCU’s phase III and the latest installment is the Scott Derrickson directed “Doctor Strange” (2016) featuring the always-great Benedict Cumberbatch as the titular hero, in really his first leading role in a massively budgeted movie ,and he pulls it off with a knowing glint is his eye – I think he knows the next few years are going to be very busy and exciting.

This movie follows the normal comic book tropes for a new entry into the MCU, we find brilliant, talented and narcissist neurosurgeon Dr. Stephen Strange moving through his charmed existence only caring for himself, his own research and his worldly possessions. Of course as per the case with people who transform from one thing into another in the MCU, Strange gets his comeuppance in losing the things that mean the most to him, and define his very existence, the full use of his hands. With this loss comes the realization that he is less than nothing, and through various means ends up in front of a person who goes by the moniker “The Ancient One”, a person who is the head of an order of Magicians. Yes this movie is moving away from aliens and technology to the realms of magic, and how this may affect the Earth – it is revealed that while the Avengers protect the Earth against physical threats, it is this order of Magicians that protects the Earth against magical enemies.

Needless to say Strange encounters this magical threat and after a steep learning curve, which proves comical and serious, he starts to become a very different person, someone who will one day become the Sorcerer Supreme of our dimension.

I am not going to get into spoilers but once again Marvel/Disney have been able to assemble a talented cast each of whom could be the lead in any other film, but here they literally band together behind Cumberbatch helping support him in a role that could be full of chuckles and eye rolls but actually, by the end of the movie, you cannot help but want to see more of this corner of the MCU.

We also have Tilda Swinton as the “The Ancient One” whose portayal has come under some scrutiny, as they have cast a young woman in a role that was intended to an elderly Asian man in the comics – however the reason for the alteration does become obvious as it relates directly to the story, so I don’t believe it’s the big deal that some have made out. Rachel McAdams is the love interest and really suffers with the weakest role in the film, but delivers some great looks and lines, this could be said to be the weakness in this film. That said this has a huge cast and the shortest running time of any MCU film yet, so maybe lengthening it would have given McAdams more to do. With, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Benedict Wong, Benjamin Bratt and Mads Mikkelsen rounding out the cast this has to be one of the strongest group of actors this year in any film – all respected lead and character actors bringing their “A” games.

Another aspect to this film is the playful sense of humor that has only increased with each successive movie and here it works really well, from the incidental characters to even the big bad that is revealed in the final battle. Everyone gets a turn in this film not only to illustrate their back stories but to also strut their sense of humor and ability to deliver funny lines.

This is another in what has become a list of first franchise movies joining the likes, of “Iron Man” (2008), “Thor” (2011), “Captain America: The First Avenger” (2011), “The Guardians of the Galaxy” (2014) and “Ant-Man” (2015) as a great jumping off point for new and existing fans to enjoy a new world that will, in time become part of the bigger picture, that being next years Thor and later Avenger films – I cannot wait to see where Strange goes from here.

I have to say that I think that this film about a character that could have been left on the sidelines and not given his own film shows just how ahead and superior Disney/Marvel are at these films and other companies could learn a thing or two about storytelling, casting, narrative and plot so that their own films could at least equal these movies.

This is a must see and has to be seen at the movies you will not be disappointed!

If you enjoyed this then watch:

“Iron Man” (2008)

“Thor” (2011)

“Captain America: The First Avenger” (2011)

“The Guardians of the Galaxy” (2014)

“Ant-Man” (2015)
Blu-ray Review: “Finding Dory” (2016)

October 25, 2016

“Finding Dory” (2016)

Animated/Pixar

Running Time: 97 minutes

Directed by: Andrew Stanton

Featuring: Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Ed O’Neill, Kaitlin Olson, Hayden Rolence, Ty Burrell, Diane Keaton, Eugene Levy, Idris Elba, Dominic West, Sigourney Weaver, John Ratzenberger

Dory: “I remember it like it was yesterday. Of course, I don’t really remember yesterday all that well.”

Its been over ten years since Pixar unleashed the hugely successful and immensely entertaining “Finding Nemo” (2003) onto the world, and audiences lapped it up, swimming along with Marlin, Dory and Nemo as well as all their friends they met along the way, and now the sequel has arrived, not the greatest of sequels but better than most animated adventures around today.

This time around the story is focused squarely on Dory and her search for her long-lost parents, on her trip she encounters some old friends and a lot of new ones, it is a fairly relatable and familiar plot particularly in terms of Pixar films. This time Marlin and Dory are the supporting characters, with a new main character Hank (expertly voiced by Ed O’Neill) an Octopus that can hide anywhere – look out for his end credit sequence, it is delightful. My personal favorites are two seals that occupy a rock near Seaward, Fluke and Rudder, who are the comedy gold in this film voiced by Idris Elba and Dominc West (lovely to see them together after their rivalry on “The Wire”) – they are priceless.

As usual and as you would expect the animation is incredible, Pixar have the water environments so expertly done you will think you are in the ocean and other environments with Hank, Dory and the gang.

Outside of the “Toy Story” franchise Pixar’s track record has been average at best with sequels, and have shied away from them, but I assume the possible profits to be made are too high to pass on, so we will be forced to watch more sequels as Pixar need to rely on existing IP. The real let down here is the story that is basically a retread of the first film which is essentially a road movie – and so brevity would have been better as this feels like a long movie and takes quite a while to reach its obvious conclusion.

Its no real slight on this film, its just that Pixar with all of their incredible films have set a bar so high that when it seems like they are falling short or aping themselves you can really see the flaws. It may have been a case that they felt the time difference between this film and the previous one may give it the feeling of originalty but Nemo is so well loved nothing will wipe the memory of that away.

Is still recommend this film as it is as you would expect very funny and emotional which is all you can really ask from an animated feature. I look forward to more original projects from Pixar in the years to come.

If you enjoyed this then watch:

“Shaun the Sheep” (2016)

“Paddington” (2015)

“A Bugs Life” (1998)

“Finding Nemo” (2003)
Review Documentary: “13th” (2016)

October 25, 2016

“13th (2016)

Documentary/Netflix

Running Time: 101 minutes

Director: Ava DuVernay

Featuring: Jelani Cobb, Angela Davis, and Henry Louis Gates

“Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.”

This latest documentary to be available on Netflix from acclaimed director Ava DuVernay, whose credits include the powerful Martin Luther King film “Selma” (2014), has chosen to address the excessive amount of African American men incarcerated in US gaols. The documentary analyses how this has come about, examining decade by decade the increase in prison populations, initially examining the 13^th Amendment to the US Constitution.

This is a film with much to unpack on just an intellectual level, and if you have been around for a while parts of this documentary will be all too familiar, and unfortunately as New Zealanders we see much of the same consequences of successive governments permeating crappy legislation in our own country. So, this is a vital, timely and relevant document of a place and time in the world today.

This documentary uses footage from early 20^th century films and borrows heavily from D. W. Griffiths “The Birth of a Nation” (1915) as a way to illustrate how African Americans were viewed by the wider public and how this film influenced the way African-Americans were treated as well as how this has remained right up to the present day. We are shown how, with every gain African Americans have made in the US how the laws, including those of incarceration, have repeatedly denied them their rights. In the 1980’s it was mandatory minimums, in the 1990s it was increased sentencing laws and now we see many young black unarmed men being murdered by police with little or no consequence.

The film uses real footage from murders, interview footage, movie footage and anything else to highlight the fact that the problem is staring us in the face, but no one wants to do anything about it. It is a war that is being lost and young people are paying the price with their very existence.

Throughout the film there are a mixture of academics, activists and victims who articulate the issues that are being faced by not only African Americans but everybody in the US – there are in fact not many groups not effected by these issues – and of course this election cycle is mentioned. There is an affecting section of the film where we see African Americans at a Trump rally that are being treated just like African Americans in the South at the beginning of the last century – you will find it hard not to shed tears at just how little has changed over the past hundred years.

If you have Netflix then this should be the next film you watch and if you don’t have Netflix get it and watch it – it is heartbreaking and there is no fiction that is sadder and you will want to talk about it and take action.

If you enjoyed this film then watch:

“Do the right thing” (1988)

“Boyz in the Hood” (1991)

“The Birth of a Nation” (2016)

“Selma” (2014)

NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 30: Director Ava DuVernay, Common, Jelani Cobb and Cindy Holland attend the 54th New York Film Festival Opening Night Gala Presentation and “13th” World Premiere with Intro and Q&A at Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center on September 30, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images)
Review: “Michael Moore in TrumpLand” (2016)

October 25, 2016

“Michael Moore in TrumpLand” (2016)

Documentary Stand-Up

Running Time: 73 minutes

Featuring: Michael Moore, Hillary Clinton, and Donald Trump

Michael Moore: “Donald Trump came to the Detroit Economic Club and stood there in front of Ford Motor executives and said, ‘If you close these factories as you’re planning to do in Detroit and build them in Mexico, I’m going to put a 35 percent tariff on those cars when you send them back and nobody’s going to buy them’.”

“It was an amazing thing to see. No politician, Republican or Democrat, had ever said anything like that to these executives, and it was music to the ears of people in Michigan and Ohio and Pennsylvania and Wisconsin – the ‘Brexit’ states.”

You have to read the title of this new ‘documentary’ from Michael Moore very carefully as it refers to his visit to Ohio for one of his stand-up shows, a Trump stronghold where he attempts to dissuade people from voting Trump, and instead vote Clinton. So this is actually more a Clinton than a Trump film for most of its 73 minute running time.

While this is indeed a very tame performance, and has some pre-recordered parts (which sometimes work) it works towards highlighting the strengths of Hillary Clinton, while appealing to peoples better natures about the past thirty years of Clintons achievements. Sometimes it can come across a little self-serving but for most of the show it is good fun, if a little toothless in terms of Trumps deficiencies. We learn that Clinton is a champion of the people and wanted to bring in universal healthcare in the 1990s but was derailed by the media – this is not easily answered but he does try and guilt trip the audience.

I find as a New Zealander powerless at what is going on in the US Election, but the coverage of it is amazing from the Left and the Right – and don’t get me wrong, this is a very much a left leaning show. It does have a few poignant parts which I will not give away and even some comments from Trump (from a Michael Moore TV show) which may be surprising even if the are from the 1990s.

This special was filmed before a majority of the scandals hit both candidates, and is probably the better for it, but it may date it a little, especially with the election a week away but it does illustrate dividing lines in the US electorate.

I would recommend this special but don’t expect any real surprises or a real attack on Trump. If it had some real bite on both candidates it may have been a little useful, especially as the revelation that Moore has never voted Clinton. No matter what happens in this election there are many people that are going to have to swallow a bitter pill.
Film Review: “Jack Reacher: Never go Back” (2016)

October 21, 2016

“Jack Reacher: Never go Back” (2016)

Action/Thriller

Directed by: Edward Zwick

Featuring: Tom Cruise, Cobie Smulders

Jack Reacher: [to the bad guy] “You think you’re above the law, but I’m not the law so you should start running because I’m going to start hunting, and when I find you I’m going to kill you all.”

This latest film adapted from the Lee Child “Jack Reacher” novels, and again featuring Tom Cruise in the title role, sees a welcome return to his brand of violence, the ex-MP who in his own way wanders the US righting wrongs in the world of the military, where villain’s are getting away with all sorts of bad deeds.

Cobie Smulders and Tom Cruise play the protagonists of this movie in the roles of Major Sue Turner and ex-Major Jack Reacher respectively. What is interesting about this film is that in the grand tradition of male dominated films this could have been a thankless role for Smulders – who has been in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as SHIELD agent Maria Hill, a kick ass soldier in her own right – but she holds her own in the role, and, opposite Cruise who it has to be said is a great foil for her. I am a big fan of Cruise – regardless of his personal convictions and history – but he has a cinematic track record of letting his co-stars shine and this can be witnessed any of his movies. The best example of this is the Oscar that Cuba Gooding Jnr received for his supporting role in Cameron Crowes film “Jerry Maguire” (1996).

Here, Cruise as star and producer reteams with his “The Last Samurai” (2006) Ed Zwick director, who himself is returning to a genre that he is familiar with, the military drama/thriller, and this was the right choice as he can really let loose with a star and studio behind him. The movie is well directed and follows a very logical plot that moves seamlessly from A to B to C, that might sound like a criticism but it really isn’t, this film is a throwback to the thrillers that Hollywood routinely made, and in fact I quite like it.

The only real difference is the feminist slant the film takes which is great to see, not only is Smulders making the point that she can make it and has made it in a male dominated profession – which she has – she can also if she wanted to match and even dominate the Reacher character which he accepts readily, and that is quite original.

I enjoyed the first Reacher film and I really enjoyed this one – it has a compelling story and as usual the action is top notch – if you like up and close and personal fight scenes then you will really enjoy this. The subplot involving a girl who may nor not be Reacher’s daughter might sound a bit contrived and convenient even but it works well and makes for a really nice emotional ending.

I recommend this film for many reasons but it is nice to see one of the biggest stars in the world getting older and playing his age and looking a little wary of the world around him.

Go see at the movies!

If you enjoyed this the try these:

“Jack Reacher” (2012)

“Payback” (1999)

“Knight and Day” (2010)

Tom Cruise plays Jack Reacher in Jack Reacher: Never Go Back from Paramount Pictures and Skydance Productions

Patrick Heusinger plays The Hunter in Jack Reacher: Never Go Back from Paramount Pictures and Skydance Productions

Tom Cruise plays Jack Reacher in Jack Reacher: Never Go Back from Paramount Pictures and Skydance Productions

Tom Cruise plays Jack Reacher in Jack Reacher: Never Go Back from Paramount Pictures and Skydance Productions

Cobie Smulders plays Turner in Jack Reacher: Never Go Back from Paramount Pictures and Skydance Productions

Tom Cruise plays Jack Reacher in Jack Reacher: Never Go Back from Paramount Pictures and Skydance Productions
Blu-ray Review: “Swiss Army Man” (2016)

October 20, 2016

Swiss Army Man (2016)

Drama/Comedy

Running Time: 97 minutes

Director: Dan Kwan, Daniel Scheinert

Featuring: Paul Dano, Daniel Radcliffe, Mary Elizabeth Winstead

Manny: “We’re gonna die. That’s a thought. Everybody dies. I’m sorry if this makes me weird or you don’t understand, but I wish I was dead again.”

I love it when I see a first time film maker, or in this case, film makers, and their offering is original and as far as I know, never really been done before (and I am not counting “Weekend at Bernie’s” one or two), and on top of that it is at least an auspicious and memorable debut – that is what we have here with the Blu-ray release of the comedy/drama “Swiss Army Man”.

The words “odd” and “quirky” are used to describe just about any movie that falls outside the boundaries of socially acceptable humor or drama but those two words along with “surreal” really do describe this film about a man and a dead body that becomes his best friend.

The film revolves around Hank (Paul Dano), a castaway who’s about to end his misery when a body washes up on the beach in front of him. Gassy, soggy and glassy-eyed, the corpse (Daniel Radcliffe) provides a welcome diversion to Hank, who names him Manny and decides to look after him as if he were alive. From this point the movie shifts to a buddy comedy, as Hank hauls his flatulent friend across all types of terrain, and when Manny begins to talk, his innocently absurd questions about the workings of his body become a way for Hank to escape his own reality.

This may sound like a film with too much cuteness and not enough performance but I can assure you this is not the case. Now in his fifth year of post Potter work, Radcliffe has not shied away from difficult roles as well as appearing in more mainstream films and in this film he shines as a dead body – he really is made for film and it is getting easier to see him in more adult roles and this film suits hom to a tee. Paul Dano is fast becoming an amazing actor and has become a go to for any character roles that need nuance and depth – here, alongside his co-star he shines.

On an initial description this film could sound to independent and knowing but in fact it is quite beautiful and it is topped off with a great soundtrack, which will have you humming long after you leave the movie. The melancholic music of Manchester Orchestra’s Andy Hull and Robert McDowell, make this a soundtrack worth seeking out.

I recommend this highly and is one of the highlights of independent cinema in the past year.

Special Features:

Featurettes

DANIELS & making the score
Review: “Killing Reagan” (2016)

October 18, 2016

“Killing Reagan” (2016)

Drama/True Story

Running Time: 100 minutes

Director: Rod Lurie

Featuring: Tim Matheson, Cynthia Nixon, Joel Murray, Joe Chrest, Kyle S. More

Cop: “You don’t look like the guy that shot the President.”

Based on the book of the same name, by right wing Fox broadcaster Bill O’Reilly, this new film produced by the National Geographic Network follows the lead up to the 1981 assassination attempt by John Hinckley on the then new US President, Ronald Reagan.

This film version of the book that treats Ronald Reagan as the second coming is actually a very good if not biased account of what happened in 1981, and illustrates not only the disintegration of one mind, but the resolute strengthening of another, that being Hinkley and Reagan respectively. The other narrative point that occurs is that the audience is shown moments between the President and First Lady, Nancy Reagan, that are special, as well as illustrating the type of special relationship they had – if you did not realize the effect she had on the Presidency then this should help you start to understand it.

This is a film of many parts but you can tell it’s really a two hander between Tim Mathieson’s portrayal of Ronald Reagan and the incredible Cynthia Nixon as Nancy. These are two respected TV and Film actors that take these roles and inhabit them the way great artists can do without slipping into caricatures of their subjects.

Rod Lurie the director is no stranger to political films with such titles as “Deterrence” (1999), “The Contender” (2000) and TV show “Commander in Chief” (2005-2006). His best work is in the political arena and this shows here, he has a great understanding of balancing large talented casts and concentrating on what matters the people and the story.

However you feel about Reagan now, he was a divisive President then, although now he is looked on as a kindly throwback to what the Republican Party stood for, and he had no time with the extremists in his party then, and I can only guess that he is rolling over in his grave seeing what this cycles presidential race has been reduced to.

Whilst it is interesting to see the story of Hinckley going more insane as the film goes on and seeing his interaction with his parents is quite frightening. The real story to follow is Reagan trailing in the polls and eventually winning the Presidency, then entering the White House and struggling with his new job. Then seeing the influence of Nancy Reagan over husband Ronald and what was to become the legacy of that Presidency particularly in the second term.

I would recommend this film to anyone that enjoys political movies but one with something that had not happened in twenty-year and not since, albeit attempted assassination, of a US President. The performances are excellent and the direction assured.

If you enjoyed this then watch:

“All the Way” (2016)

“Confirmation” (2016)

“Recount” (2008)

“Game Change” (2012)

Killing Reagan Day 15. 06/13/2016
Review: “Mascots” (2016)

October 16, 2016

“Mascots” (2016)

Comedy/Mockumentary

Running Time: 89 minutes

Director: Christopher Guest

Featuring: Parker Posey, Bob Balaban, Christopher Guest, Jane Lynch, Jennifer Coolidge

“Mascots” is Christopher Guests return to a genre he helped make famous – the mockumentary – with “This is Spinal Tap” (1984) and his last attempt at it, the excellent and underrated “A Mighty Wind” (2011).

I really wanted to love “Mascots” but I am not sure what the point of it was, it was similar to “Best in Show” (2005), in that it revolves around a competition, this time replacing the owners and dogs with people and the mascots they perform as, and early on I thought it was a great idea, but by the end I wish he had gone in another direction – at least a funnier more even direction. Maybe we have all been spoilt by Guests excellent work and the bar is so high that he sometimes sets himself up for failure. It must be difficult being a true comedy legend, he has had his hand in so much success that it can be a mighty long way to drop.

The story focuses on a best of the best mascot competition where contestants come from around the world to compete for the Golden Fluffy the top award. We follow their stories from their hometowns to their eventual fate in the competition, pretty straight forward really – I have to admit I was waiting for a surprise throughout the film – but no it is as simple as it sounds.

This film really misses the presence of stalwarts Harry Shearer (although he does voice the announcer), Eugene Levy, and Catherine O’Hara. It particularly misses Levy, who is the credited co-writer on Guests best films – “Best in Show”(2000), “A Mighty Wind”(2003) and “Waiting for Guffman”(1996) – and has been replaced by Jim Piddick, an English TV writer who has a role in this film as well. The effect on the movie for my mind is that Levy was a master improviser, and had been doing it for decades whereas Piddick has a background in scripted television programs, a far cry from Guests normal collaborators.

The standout for me in this film is Parker Posey who has always been the X-Factor in all of Guests films and is that here, we see her practicing her moves and talking at the same time about the importance of dance and her mascot to her – she is a complete natural. It is a shame the rest of the cast is so aimless – other standouts are of course Ed Begley Jnr and Jane Lynch as warring judges who are at different levels of fame, something I am sure they can both appreciate.

When I had first heard of this project I was excited but watching it made me feel a little sad for Guest who seemed to be trudging through the material as if it were a job and not something he was truly enjoying.

I would only recommend this to completists of Guests work and to all others steer clear it is not a good example of his best work.

If you have missed these watch now:

“Waiting for Huffman” (1996)

“Best in Show” (2000)

“A Mighty Wind” (2003)

This image released by Netflix shows a scene from “Mascots.” (Scott Garfield/Netflix via AP)
“Yoga Hosers” (2016)

October 14, 2016

“Yoga Hosers” (2016)

Running Time: 88 minutes

Director: Kevin Smith

Featuring: Lily-Rose Depp, Harley Quinn Smith, Johnny Depp, Jason Mewes, Genesis Rodriguez, Ralph Garman, Justin Long, Vanessa Paradis, Hayley Joel Osmont

Colleen McKenzie: “I’m not even supposed to be here today!”

If you are not willing to sit back and enjoy this farce for what it is or are not in on the joke you will probably wonder what you are watching and may even baffled by what’s going on – Be Warned!

This is latest film from writer/director Kevin Smith, he of Clerks (1993) fame and podcaster supreme with his own network – Smodcast – and many many fans who tune in to him or his friends wax lyrical on any number of subjects. Lately he has added TV director to he resume – you can watch his “Flash” episodes on television – these have been met with acclaim – it seems he may work better with other peoples material, although that may be a bit harsh.

“Yoga Hosers” follows on from last years “Walrus” (2015) which saw a man turn into a Walrus, yes you read that right. This film is also part two of a Canadian Horror Trilogy with the final part coming next year in the form of “Moose Jaws” (2017), a film about Jaws if it were a moose and of course set in Canada.

I really enjoyed “Walrus” for what it was and in particular the actors Smith is able to draw into his mad word, Johnny Depp among them. Depp gave a meandering performance but it was fun to see him in a low budget horror without pretension or ego, and was a worthy cameo to a film not taking itself too seriously.

With “Yoga Hosers” we see Depp return to a larger more cohesive role and once again is in his element – think his initial performance in the “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” (2003), lots of surprise and thought with a hint of anarchy.

The other two performances of note are Smith’s daughter Harley Quinn Smith and Depp’s daughter Lily-Rose Depp who play the two Colleens, Collette and McKenzie respectively as two shop clerks (sound familiar) who return from their own cameos in “Tusk” – a point we are reminded of throughout the first half of this film. Their performances are a bit rough in the initial parts of the movie but really come together in the end and they are both pretty unique and brave for wanting to take on roles that see them in almost every scene of the film – and it has to be said opposite some pretty amazing comics and actors as well as their own parents. I think they both come out of this very well and could go on to be in other movies if they want – even if they have famous fathers of varying degrees.

The movie itself plays as a bit of a mess and there are too many characters that could have either been cut out or at least cut down, or maybe highlighted them less the way they are through an app the Colleens use and tells us who each characters is – it does become annoying after a while but thankfully does stop after about twenty minutes. The story itself takes advantage of the Canadian culture to a dwegree that I think you may have to be Canadian to get all the references which does not help someone like me who while I feel I know a lot I am not an expert.

The way the anatagonists are introduced is a jarring and a little odd and whilst they were fun and gross they do not really come together the way they probably should. There is a reveal atowards the end and it is clumsily done but the final monster is really well realized and I could not help but feel that this should have been the main thrust of the entire film and it would have been overall a better experience.

If you are a diehard fan of Kevin Smith or you really liked “Walrus” then I recommend it but it is not as much fun. I am still looking forward to “Moose Jaws” and I hope this will redeem this trilogy.

If you enjoyed this try:

“Walrus” (2015)

“Clerks” (1993)

“Dogma” (1999)
Documentary Review: “Amanda Knox” (2016)

October 10, 2016

“Amanda Knox” (2016)

Documentary

Running Time: 92 minutes

Director: Rod Blackhurst, Brian McGinn

Freelance Journalist, The Daily Mail: “But hey, what are we suppose to do? We are journalists and we are reporting what we are being told. It’s not as if I can say “Hold on a minute, I just want to double check that myself in some other way, who knows how, and I’ll let my rival get in there first before me, and then, hey, I’ve lost a scoop.” It doesn’t work like that, not in the news game.”

This documentary, about Amanda Knox, the American accused of murder in 2007 while on her OE in Italy comes at a great time for her personally and reminds us that all people and legal systems are flawed, and how easy it is for people to get caught up in something beyond their experience, knowledge and control. This is another strong documentary from Netflix made all the better by not only interviews with Amada Know but also Italian prosecutor Giuliano Mignini, who are not afraid to speak their minds in the most candid way possible.

The basic plot of the film revolves around American Amanda Knox who was tried and convicted for the murder of British student Meredith Kercher, who died from knife wounds in the apartment she shared with Knox. Knox and her then-boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito, were both found guilty of killing Kercher, receiving 26- and 25-year prison sentences, respectively. We then follow the story from this conviction all the way through to Knox’s return to the US where she found out that the verdict had been overturned and the case went to the highest court in the land for a final judgement.

My personal opinion on this documentary is that it does take a stance, and follows it through to the end – I believe from the evidence within the feature that as a viewer you will reach a conclusion to the mess that everyone found themselves in. As with all my reviews and particularly documentaries I am not going to delve into the details of the film as it takes the impact of it away from the viewer, but this is a must watch and a must watch with other people as it will provoke conversation and debate.

The other way in which the case is analyzed is looking at how the “media” covered the years and years of the trial – I think that this may have actually been a larger part of the documentary until Knox and Mignini agreed to take part, in which case they took the front seat. It is interesting to know that there are no apologies from the media, which shaped the outcomes of the trial no matter what Mignini says – and there is a tabloid reporter on hand to defend his actions, which in my mind are deplorable, and a taste of what we are seeing here in our own country.

Finally, the Italian Justice System takes a part of this film and you can see by the way Knox was treated by the “system” that like many suspects in murders she is on the back foot from the start and under intense pressure from all the Italian officials to the point that to add even more pressure they told her she was HIV+ – you have to see it to believe it.

In my opinion this is a must see and only reflects on New Zealand’s recent history with the now innocent Teina Pora and how he was treated. My only question is how many people are found guilty of serious crimes that are actually innocent.

If you enjoyed this try:

Jinx (2015)

The People Vs. O J Simpson (2016)

Making a murderer (2015)

Lore (Podcast)
Blu-ray Review: “Hunt for the Wilderpeople” (2016)

October 6, 2016

“Hunt for the Wilderpeople” (2016)

Drama/Comedy/New Zealand

Running Time: 101 minutes

Director: Taika Waititi

Featuring: Sam Neil, Julian Dennison, Rima Te Wiata, Rachel House, Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne and Oscar Kightley

Ricky Baker: I’ll never stop running!

Paula: Yeah, and I’ll never stop chasing you – I’m relentless, I’m like the Terminator.

Ricky Baker: I’m more like the Terminator than you!

Paula: I said it first; you’re more like Sarah Connor, and in the first movie too, before she could do chin-ups.

Look I am going to be honest and say I have arrived late to the Taika Waitit party, and only just received my copy of this film to review. Being the reactionary old man that I am I proceeded to put off watching it, thinking it could never live up to the hype that has followed this film worldwide since its release – but, this is just one of the best films I have seen all year, as simple as that.

I am not going to bore you with why you should watch this but you should watch and own it and re-watch it.

I will say I loved the homage to Barry Crumps Toyota adverts from years gone by, just excellent and it was great to see a true homage and not a rip-off.

The other thing is the performances that are given by all with my MVP going to Rima Te Wiata, the time she is in this film are some of the best of the film and of NZ cinema – Rima is the real gold in this film and I would love to see her recognized in some form.

Taika has done a great job here and his talent is obvious from all his other projects and I simply cannot wait to see how he will handle a film with a much larger budget and one with a built in audience the size of his next film “Thor: Ragnarok” (2017).

Special Features:

Audio commentary track with Taika Waititi, Sam Neill and Julian Dennison

Featurette

Bloopers

Interviews

Trailers

If you enjoyed this try:

“Boy” (2012)

“What we do in the Shadows” (2014)
Blu-ray Review:“Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” (1979-1981)

October 5, 2016

“Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” (1979-1981)

Sci-Fi, TV Show

37 Episodes

Created by: Glen A. Larson, Leslie Stevens

Featuring: Gil Gerard, Erin Gray, Felix Silla, Mel Blanc

Narrator: “For 500 years, Captain William “Buck” Rogers has been miraculously preserved, frozen by temperatures beyond imagination. Now, in Earth year 2491, he is rudely awakened by the sinister forces of the Draconian Realm.”

In 1987, NASA astronaut William “Buck” Rogers is caught in a freak accident in deep space, causing his space shuttle Ranger 3 to be blown into an orbit that returns him to Earth – over 500 years later. The combination of gases that freezes him comes close to the formula commonly used in the 25th century for preservation, and his rescuers are able to revive him. In 2491, when Buck awakens from the freezing, Earth is recovering from a nuclear war and is coming under hostile attack by the Draconian Empire. In the second season, Buck has been assigned aboard the “Searcher”, a starship exploring the unknown reaches of space while searching for former Earth colonies that are scattered across the galaxy.

Whilst I am not a massive fan of nostalgia per se this particular TV show is a real blast from the past as I remember going to the movies to see the pilot and was a massive fan of this short lived show and always caught repeats of it when it aired. So when I found out a Blu-ray was being produced and released I could not wait to see it and to see if I would enjoy it as much as years gone by – and I have to say that while it does not hold up to original Star Trek episodes and all the references are a bit on the nose, I still loved re-watching this and seeing what Sci-Fi on TV looked like over thirty years ago.

The series generally followed Buck as he attempted tried to fit into 25th-century culture. There were no records of him at all and he had skills such as his pilot and combat skills and personal ingenuity, to help Earth Defense foil assorted evil plots to conquer the planet. Buck is aided in his adventures by his friend and sometimes romantic interest, Colonel Wilma Deering (Erin Gray), a high-ranking officer and star fighter pilot as well as Twiki, a small robot Twiki, who became Buck’s comic sidekick and communicated with an electronic noise that sounded like “biddi-biddi-biddi”, but also spoke English (usually after saying “biddi-biddi-biddi-biddi” for several seconds.) Also aiding Buck was Dr. Theopolis, a sentient computer in the shape of a disk, about 9 inches wide with an illuminated face. He was capable of understanding Twiki’s electronic language, and was often carried around by him.

Now I am not saying this is the greatest Sci-Fi show ever in fact it made the list of one of the worst TV shows in history but time has actually been kind to this series and it is a lot of fun to watch and to see how the effect of the success of Star Wars made this a viable property from the orgins of its serialized 1930s format. The stories are simple but they are pretty great and I recommend this as it does have re-watchability and the humor has gotten fine with age.

Have fun with it!

Special Features

Bonus Theatrical Version of the Pilot episode (in Standard Definition)

Bonus Feature-length version of Flight Of The War Witch (in Standard Definition)

Ending and Opening sequences for 2-part version of Awakening

Bonus Syndicated 2-part version of Journey to Oasis (in HD)

Opening Titles without narration

Text less Opening and Closing Titles

Isolated Music & Effects Audio Track on each episode
Film Review: “Louis Theroux’s My Scientology Movie” (2016)

September 30, 2016

“Louis Theroux’s My Scientology Movie” (2016)

Documentary

Running Time: 109 minutes

Presented by: Louis Theroux

Featuring: Louis Theroux, Tom Cruise, Rob Alter, Paz de la Huerta, Tom De Vocht Jefferson Hawkins, Marc Headley, Steven Mango, Marty Rathbun

“When you don’t have access to a subject and all you have is ex-members and critics, there is this gravitational pull toward telling a certain version of events,” Theroux said. “Scientology would say this, and they have a point, that it’s like doing a portrait of a marriage in which you’re only hearing from the ex-wife and not the ex-husband. So as a journalist it’s this nagging feeling that I’m not getting the full picture.”

Louis Theroux’s latest documentary “Louis Theroux’s My Scientology Movie” (2016), is his attempt at examining the Church of Scientology and is also his move to the big screen. Theroux’s previous documentaries have been shorter and more tightly focused, and so it is with mixed results that this latest one lands but is not a definite bull’s-eye.

Theroux’s style is to attempt to immerse himself in whatever person or ideology that he is focused on, and early in this film he makes it clear that he has had no luck at all in getting any co-operation in the making of this documentary from the Church, this becomes a bit of a weight around it as he has to rely on some other way of getting “inside” the Church. The other possible problem is the memory of the excellent 2015 documentary “Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief” directed by the always on point Alex Gibney, and based around the book of the same name by author Lawrence Wright. This book and film took a deep dive into the same world and in fact much of Theroux’s stock footage is the same that was used in the Gibney documentary – which can be a little distracting if you recognise it.

Here Theroux has interviews with ex-scientologists who dish the dirt on what it was like being high-ranking officials within the Church, as well as talking about the leader of the Church, David Miscavige. Theroux then, and a little inexplicably decides to stage some of the more famous moments from interviews with Miscavige; a testimony Miscavige gave in a lawsuit and a scene from something that allegedly took place in a scientology punishment house called “The Hole”. They cast actors and get them to go through the different scenes while Theroux interviews the ex-scientologist to varying degrees of success.

So, while the documentary is a little uneven and does not add too much to the discussion on the Church of Scientology it is interesting to see how the organization reacts to the mere presence of Theroux gathering information and interviewing past members. We see some intimidation by the Church (or at least we are told it is by the Church) in the presence of threatening letters from their lawyers asking Louis to cease and desist, as well as another cameraman filming Louis and his compatriots, then some older men turn up and try and get in the heads of the ex-church members.

I would recommend this highly to fans of Theroux and his style as well as the fact that he tries not to let people off the hook in terms of asking questions, particularly questions the normal person may ask, he has an engaging style which I think is reflected in his popularity particularly in the UK. If you are not a fan or do not know who Louis is I would still recommend if you enjoy going to the movies and watching high quality documentaries as they are far and few between.

If you liked this film then try:

“Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief” (2015)

“The Master” (2012)

“Guyana Tragedy: The Story of Jim Jones” (1980)

“The Sacrament” (2013)
Film Review: “Deepwater Horizon” (2016)

September 28, 2016

“Deepwater Horizon” (2016)

Drama/Action/True Story

Running Time: 107 minutes

Director: Peter Berg

Featuring: Mark Wahlberg, Kurt Russell, Kate Hudson, John Malkovich, Ethan Suplee, Gina Rodriguez, Dylan O’Brien

Donald Vidrine: “We a big company, millions of moving parts. We all work very hard to ensure those moving parts are functioning as a means to a very profitable win for all of us.”

Mark Wahlberg and Director Peter Berg’s second film together after 2014’s excellent “Lone Survivor”, which saw a band of special forces soldiers trapped behind enemy lines in Afghanistan, a seemingly hopeless situation of escaping, even though outnumbered and cut off from rescue or back-up. This latest film sees them reteam for another true story, this time telling the true story of the 2010 disaster which occured on the oil rig Deepwater Horizon, causing the biggest oil spill in US history.

The films plot takes place on 20^th April 2010, when a blowout and explosion on the oil rig irreparably damages and sinks the platform, releasing thousands of gallons of petroleum into the ocean. The movie follows Michael ‘Mike’ Williams (Mark Wahlberg), and Caleb Holloway (Kurt Russell), two of more than 120 crew members on board. We witness Mike helping rescue some of their ship mates, while his family back home deals with the fallout of the disaster. Interestingly, the film does not play like a drama, but instead an action movie and Berg pulls this of with real believability. It is to his credit that he has the budget and the talent to make a really great and moving film about the tragedy that occurred on that fateful day, and you come away thinking about the waste and carnage that has had an effect not just on the crews but many many others over the intervening years.

This is the second part of an unofficial trilogy with this, the aforementioned “Lone Survivor” and next years “Patriots Day”, once again a true story about loss and something that shocked the world as and when it happened – the 2013 Boston Marathon Bombings.

All three of these films have many things in common besides the people involved, they also seem to be about events that have changed all those in their vicinity, as well as entering the US national consciousness for some time. They also seem to revolve around men in intensely stressful situations where ,they overcome the relevant obsticlies and danger to various degrees of success. The more inward looking these stories the more successful the protagonists, particularly I imagine with next years “Patriot’s Days”.

In the meantime back to “Deepwater Horizon”, for a simple plot and narrative it is actually full of some complex information, particularly in terms of why the disaster occurred – of course BP and its employees get the brunt of the blame and it is only the crew of the rig that are the voices of reason. This is actually what happened and we learn that the bosses did face manslaughter charges – although these were later dropped – lucky for them I guess.

The performances are all excellent and it is Wahlberg and Kurt Russell who steal the show with performances by superstars, turning into real people who had real responsibilities, and they pull it off with such ease you forget you are watching a film. Peter Berg has to be praised and his direction is excellent and it is great after the speed bump that was the disaster of his last big budget film “Battleship” (2012),.

The main part of the film is the actual disaster and this will lead you breathless and wonder how most of the crew made it out alive – and you will also see some of the crew representing humanity at its best – risking life and limb for their friends and co-workers in ways that will make you question how you would behave in a similar situation – of course the truth is we will never have to face that question in reality.

This is a truly great film and coming on the heels of “Sully” it is refreshing to see people that think about others before themselves, something we could all take a lesson from.

This film is highly recommended to all.

If you enjoyed this try:

“Sully” (2016)

“Lone Survivor” (2014)

“Friday Night Lights” (2004)

“Boogie Nights” (1997)