FilmDebate's Blog

The FilmDebate Website Is Now Live!

2013-12-09T05:37:00.001-08:00

The new FilmDebate website has been launched. This unfortunately means that this blog is now inactive, it has been a brilliant three and a half years!

Click To Go To The FilmDebate Website

The FilmDebate Website

2013-11-14T12:15:00.001-08:00

These three and a half years on Blogger have been a brilliant starting point, but FilmDebate's time as a blog has come to an end - Soon, I will be making the switch to a website.

The FilmDebate website will have two main areas of focus; film writing & film networking. The aim is to provide all that my blog has, and much more, in the hope of building an active film network of promotion, journalism and debate.

Consequently, while maintaining a blog single-handed has been a reasonable task, the new website would be a much harder objective. This therefore means, that I am looking for contributors! - If you are interesting in writing for the new FilmDebate website, please email me on filmdebate@hotmail.com.

Thank you for your continued support of this blog, I hope you continue to read my work on the new website!

Many thanks,

Adam Snowden
FilmDebate

Promotions!

2013-11-11T12:32:00.000-08:00

It is time I made a post promoting some of the work people have sent me, either via Twitter or email. Soon, FilmDebate will be making the switch from a blog to a website, and promotions like these will become common. Our aim is to build a network of film makers and film enthusiasts, promoting and reviewing projects of all genre and platforms. The following is a list of various projects from other like-minded people, along with the ability to contact them.

The Edge Of The Lawn

A film by Louis Turner, filmed over five days on a budget of £1700, using a Canon 5D and four crew members. Quite an achievement.

The Trailer: https://vimeo.com/78009775
The Film: https://vimeo.com/78867548

Twitter: @mrlouistea

Additional Production Photos:

Dark Corners: Web Series

A Web Series run over YouTube by The LondonComedyWriters.

Web Series: Dark Corners
Twitter: @DarkCorners3

One of the Dark Corners Reviews:

Adam Pritchard - Quick Reviews

An quick way of reviewing TV & Cinema from young media enthusiast Adam Pritchard.

YouTube Channel: AdamPritchard
Twitter: @AdamPritchard_

All The Wild Horses

A Film by Ivo Marloh, Kevin Augello & Michael Sanderson.

Film Website: All The Wild Horses
Twitter: @ivo_marloh

Trailer:

[Famous Film Scene] - A Few Good Men

2013-10-14T07:22:00.003-07:00

The famous 'You can't handle the truth' line. Although an extremely famous quote, you would be surprised how many people don't know what film it is actually from. 'A Few Good Men' is a well made courtroom drama, containing yet another excellent performance from Jack Nicholson. This is his famous speech, containing that memorable line - Enjoy!

IMDB - A Few Good Men

Promotions!

2013-10-09T09:11:00.001-07:00

Afternoon Everyone!

My network on Twitter, YouTube & Blogger is starting to slowly expand! Recently I have been receiving promotion requests from various people's films and similar projects on a regular basis. As such, I have decided to start making promotions for up and coming films & media! If you have anything you want promoting, send me a link, either via email (filmdebate@hotmail.com) or as a Direct Message on twitter and I will review & promote!

I will always credit the owners of the promoted item, and will happily add links to their subsequent networking profiles etc.

Lets try and take FilmDebate to the next level!

[Review] Prisoners - 5th October 2013

2013-10-05T05:02:00.000-07:00

★★★★★★★ Good [For rating system, see information tab at the top of the blog]
-
Release Date: 20th September 2013
-
Director: Denis Villeneuve
-
Writer: Aaron Guzikowski
-
Cast: Hugh Jackman - Jake Gyllenhaal - Viola Davis - Melissa Leo - Maria Bello - Paul Dano - Terrence Howard

Review

So here we have the awaited 'Prisoners', the first international mainstream release from director Denis Villeneuve, who achieved success with acclaimed films such as 'Incendies' in 2010, and 'Polytechnique' in 2009. 'Prisoners' collaborates the work of both Jake Gyllenhaal and Hugh Jackman, two household names that, in my opinion, still have a lot to prove.

Having said this, I was always going to see 'Prisoners'. Its premise is dark and engaging, and gives the two leading male actors a chance to shine. The plot centres around the kidnapping of two young girls, and when police leads begin to weaken, one of the fathers of the girls takes matters into his own hands in his desperation to protect his family.

So...the fundamental question: Is 'Prisoners' a good film?...the answer is yes. While it is not without its flaws, 'Prisoners' is fundamentally well made, engaging, and enjoyable.

To begin with, the direction, setting and camera construction throughout the film are excellent. Denis Villeneuve created a film that was shot clinically and effectively, with subtle traces of an obvious artistic style. The setting of the film, the weather, the mise-en-scene all reflected the dark narrative, while certain interesting, and at times strange camera work gave the film an enjoyable edge I was not expecting.

In addition to this performances were fundamentally good. The cast as a whole produced a film that was emotionally engaging and relatable. Secondary performances from Melissa Leo, Terrance Howard, Maria Bello, Paul Dano and Viola Davis greatly helped to build the audience-to-character empathy required for this type of thriller. The two leading roles from Hugh Jackman and Jack Gyllenhaal both exceeded expectations, particularly Gyllenhaal, who created an interesting, mysterious character different from other types of role I have seen him play.

The quality of the writing does not, however, impress as much. While the narrative is effective, it is a little predictable, and moves in a linear pattern. Yes...the film does employ narrative twists, but the slight predictability here detracts from the level of surprise desired. Having said this, it could be argued that the narrative needed to be routed in a more basic plot, as it draws attention to the emotions of the characters, which appears to be one of the writers key concerns.

A further criticism I have about the film relates to its pace and duration. The film is two and a half hours long (give or take a minute or two), and moves at a steady pace. At times I thought certain scenes were unnecessarily prolonged and could perhaps have benefited from an injection of excitement in an attempt to remove the predictability.

Another interesting ascetic worth mentioning is the absence of music as background support. Thrillers of this type would normally use music to generate suspense, mood and emotion. However the film is completely devoid of musical presence. Instead, these ascetics are generated through the powerful emotions of the characters, the dialogue and the narrative itself. This lack of music increases the emotion portrayed by the characters, as it make their acting and reactions the focus for the audience .This construction is not unique to 'Prisoners', but it is utilized effectively throughout the film.

My worry for 'Prisoners' is its memorability. While the film engages with an audience on an emotional level, it contains nothing that makes it stand out from other thrillers based on a similar premise. The modern film industry is so vast and versatile that producing a film which could be considered as conservative in its own genre will always run the risk of being forgotten.

'Prisoners' - Definitely a film I recommend. Not without its flaws, but full of engaging emotion. An enjoyable watch.

[Review] Insidious: Chapter Two - 20th September 2013

2013-09-22T06:18:00.001-07:00

★★★★ Leaves Alot To Be Desired [For rating system, see information tab at the top of the blog]
-
Release Date: 13th September 2013
-
Director: James Wan
-
Writer: Leigh Whannell (Screenplay, Characters & Story) - James Wan (Story)
-
Cast: Patrick Wilson - Rose Byrne - Barbara Hershey -Ty Simpkins - Andrew Astor

Review

When I first saw the trailer for James Wan's second installment of Insidious, I thought it could be interesting. The sequel has retained the same cast and crew that saw the first film achieve relative success, so I thought, why not give the sequel a chance? - What a mistake!... 'Insidious: Chapter Two' was an enormous disappointment.

The narrative of the film is a direct continuation from the first; The Lambert family must continue to fight through their haunting, as they try to uncover the reason why they are so attracted to the spirit realms.

Here lies the first problem; the films narrative and writing. The story is long, drawn out and convoluted. It combines different styles and narrative constructions like flashbacks, memories, found footage and surrealism in an attempt to build an intricate narrative; which unfortunately just looks rushed and amateur. In addition to this, the dialogue throughout the film is also fundamentally poor. Conversations appear wooden and unrealistic, greatly adding to the overall amateur feeling the film sadly portrays.

 Having said this, there was one aspect of the writing I did enjoy; the way in which the two films linked. 'Insidious: Chapter Two' used scenes and narrative points from the first film, and put them into a different or a more understanding context. For example, you may remember a scene from the first installment in which a male spirit is standing behind the baby's cot. A scene used as nothing more than a stinger in the first film, that gains more narrative purpose in the second - watch out for it if you do choose to go and see it. It needs to be stated however, that while this is a positive, it in no way makes up for what the films writing lacked.

 Another issue comes from the films performances. While the leading roles by Patrick Wilson and Rose Byrne are adequate, the rest of the cast are less than impressive. Particularly the weak, cliche performance from Lin Shaye. These weak performances combined with the clunky dialogue greatly hinders the film as a whole; performances and dialogue are one of the most important things in any film; the basics should never be neglected.

 In addition, one of the main aspects I liked about the first 'Insidious' was the visualization. In the first installment, the spirits and setting where very sinister, particularly in the place known as 'The Further'. This dark, disturbing visualization greatly added to overall suspense throughout the film...an aspect unfortunately lost in the second film. While they attempt to keep to this same sinister style, it simply comes across as, for lack of a better word, cheesy. In certain situations some of the protagonists even appeared comical rather than frightening, something that should never occur in a horror film.

 The fundamental question is a simple one; is the film frightening? A horror film has to scare an audience, otherwise it has failed to achieve its goal. 'Insidious: Chapter Two' is full of stingers that make you jump, but does not actually frighten you. This lack of lasting fear, combined with the poor ascetics of the film, make 'Insidious: Chapter Two' a waste of time in my opinion. Yet another horror to drop into the sea of failed sequels & prequels.

 Insidious: Chapter Two - A poor sequel to a film that was never really worth repeating. It fails in key aspects like writing, dialogue and performances - leaving a finished product that seems rushed and amateur.

[Famous Film Scene] - The Pianist

2013-09-02T01:41:00.000-07:00

Roman Polaski's personal life aside, he is an excellent filmmaker. In my opinion, one of the best. 'The Pianist' is a harrowing, excellent film that I feel everyone should watch at least once. In this disturbing scene, a disabled man is thrown from a window by the Nazis.

IMDB - The Pianist

Film Recommendation - Into The Abyss

2013-08-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

★★★★★★★

Good [For rating system, see information tab at top of blog]

This is the first feature Length documentary recommendation I have posted. 'Into The Abyss' Is an independent documentary released in 2011 by German filmmaker Werner Herzog. It received much critical acclaim from festivals and consquently film critics thereafter. It follows and interviews the case of inmate Michael Perry and those afflicted with his crime, for which he has been sentenced to death.

The documentary is well-made, well filmed and well constructed, formulating several chapters as the interviews and case progresses. It has dark undertones and is exceptionally good for making you think from all different aspects of the case and the people involved. Though you do not feel empathy for the criminals involved, you do begin to question your beliefs in the whole justice system and the death penalty. This being said however, the true harrowing nature of the documentary comes from the interviews with victims family members and friends.

I would not recommend the documentary to those who prefer lighthearted viewing, as this documentary is harrowing at times, and does leave you thinking deeply. However, it is still an enjoyable film, particularly for those who are interested in criminal psychology, crime, the justice system and the overall human emotion of grief.

[Famous Film Scene] - Training Day

2013-08-19T03:10:00.002-07:00

'Training Day' is the film that saw Denzel Washington win his first Oscar in a leading role. He had previously won one for a supporting role in 'Glory'. This scene is the ending of the film, therefore *Spoiler alert*, but I have posted it because it showcases why Washington won the deserved Oscar for his role as Alonzo Harris; one of my favorite performances.

IMDB - Training Day

Highest Earning Films Of The Last Twenty Years

2013-08-15T12:12:00.002-07:00

This information was true on 15th Of August, 2013, and the total amounts are world wide estimated, gathered over several different websites.

The List:

2012 - The Avengers
Budget: $220,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,514,279,000

2011 - Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows Part II

Budget: $250,000,000

Box Office Total: $1,328,111,000

2010 - Toy Story 3
Budget: $200,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,063,759,000

2009 - Avatar

Budget: $240,000,000

Box Office Total: $2,783,918,000

2008 - The Dark Knight
Budget: $185,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,002,891,000

2007 - Pirates Of The Caribbean: At Worlds End

Budget: $300,000,000

Box Office Total: $960,996,000

2006 - Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Budget: $225,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,060,615,000

2005 - Star Wars: Revenge Of The Sith
Budget: $113,000,000
Box Office Total: $848,754,000

2004 - Shrek 2
Budget: $150,000,000
Box Office Total: $919,828,000

2003 - Lord Of The Rings: Return Of The King
Budget: $94,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,141,408,000

2002 - Spider-Man
Budget: $140,000,000
Box Office Total: $821,708,000

2001 - Harry Potter & The Philosophers Stone
Budget: $125,000,000
Box Office Total: $974,755,000

2000 - Mission Impossible II
Budget: $125,000,000
Box Office Total: $546,388,000

1999 - Star Wars: The Phantom Menace
Budget: $115,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,007,044,000

1998 - Armageddon
Budget: $140,000,000
Box Off Total: $553,709,000

1997 - Titanic
Budget: $200,000,000
Box Office Total: $2,185,672,000

1996 - Independence Day
Budget: $75,000,000
Box Office Total: $817,400,000

1995 - Die Hard with a Vengeance
Budget: $90,000,000
Box Office Total: $366,101,000

1994 - Forrest Gump
Budget: $55,000,000
Box Office Total: $677,387,000

1993 - Jurassic Park
Budget: $63,000,000
Box Office Total: $962,504,000

1992 - Aladdin
Budget: $28,000,000
Box Office Total: $504,050,219

[Famous Film Scene] - Goodfellas

2013-08-02T05:31:00.000-07:00

What more can be said about the quality of 'Goodfellas' that hasn't already been said? A truly brilliant and timeless film. In this scene, Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci) asks the famous line; 'Funny How?' - Enjoy!

IMDB - Goodfellas

[Review] The World's End - 29th July 2013

2013-07-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

★★★★★ Average [For rating system, see information tab at the top of the blog]

Release Date: 19th July 2013
-
Director: Edgar Wright
-
Writer: Edgar Wright - Simon Pegg
-
Cast: Simon Pegg - Nick Frost - Martin Freeman - Eddie Marsan - Rosamund Pike - Paddy Considine

Review

'The World's End', the final chapter in Simon Pegg, Nick Frost and Edgar Wright's comedy trilogy. A long awaited film, particularly for British audiences, but also audiences around the world. Needless to say, the film had a lot to live up to - its prequels being 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz', two very popular, acclaimed films.

The narrative of the film follows five old school friends reuniting in their home town, to complete the 'golden mile', a pub crawl consisting of twelve different establishments. Simple and effect, in keeping with the narrative and premise style of 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz'. The question is, does 'The World's End' close off the trilogy in an effective manner? In a short answer, yes it does, but having said this, it does not quite reach the same level of enjoyment as its two predecessors. While 'The World's End' is a decent enough film in many ways, it didn't quite live up to expectations.

To begin with, something that I really liked about the film, and a point that I believe was important if the film was to be considered a success, is the fact that it retains the same 'British' style themes and roots. Conventions firmly established by 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz'. As with the previous two films, 'The World's End' is focused around British culture and dialect, one of the films main sources of comedy. By keeping these conventions, 'The World's End' joins the previous films as a quietly charming British comedy that people of other cultures and nationality's can still enjoy.

In addition to this, the film follows 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz' in another manner; it portrays typical British lifestyle through an extreme event or chain of events. With 'Shaun Of The Dead' it was a zombie apocalypse, and with 'Hot Fuzz' it was cult style circle of murderers, leading to 'The World's End', which introduces a Sci-Fi element to the trilogy in the form of an alien race and conspiracy. This style of British humor portrayed in a serious or supernatural situation is what gives the trilogy it's unique edge, something that has proved very successful.

The issue with 'The World's End' doesn't come from the comedy itself, but from the changes in character and narrative structure. The film is more mature than 'Hot Fuzz' and 'Shaun Of The Dead', and for that very reason, it does not have as many laugh-out-loud moments. Instead, they have tried to introduce a darker undertone in the form of alcoholism, an aspect that I felt made the film different, but not necessarily in a good way. 'The World's End' has big shoes to fill, and you watch the film expecting frequent comic moments (which do of course occur), but instead you are presented with these more serious themes.

A second fundamental issue I noticed with 'The World's End' was the likeablity of the characters, something that is directly related to the aforementioned serious undertone they imposed on the film. When you consider the main characters from 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz', they are all likeable, and relatable in their own ways. With Gary King, the main character in 'The World's End', the same relation does not occur. Due to his obvious demons with alcohol, the character is much more tragic, and you find yourself feeling sorry for his lifestyle, rather than relating to him. Another aspect that I felt let the film down slightly.

In addition, a third aspect that disappoints is the ending. I am not going to explain however as if you are planning to go to and see the film, this would be a drastic spoiler, but I will say, it left a lot to be desired.

'The World's End' - Not quite as good as its previous siblings, let down by slight changes in the basic structure that made 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz' so likeable. Having said this, the film is still a relatively enjoyable watch.

[Review] This Is The End - 24th July 2013

2013-07-24T10:44:00.005-07:00

★★★★★★ Worth Watching [For rating system, see information tab at the top of the blog]

Release Date: 12th June 2013
-
Director: Evan Goldberg & Seth Rogen
-
Writer: Seth Rogan & Evan Goldberg [Screenplay & Screenstory] Jason Stone [Idea, Short Film]
-
Cast: James Franco - Seth Rogan - Jonah Hill - Jay Baruchel - Danny McBride - Craig Robinson

Review

Being a fan of the former Judd Apatow 'team', I was pleasantly surprised when news of 'This Is The End' reached my ears. Especially when you consider the cast, which, including all cameos, unites the actors from popular films like 'Pineapple Express', 'Knocked Up' and 'Superbad'.

What you have to ask yourself, like so many other comedies subject to a particular style, is whether or not your a fan! Considering Seth Rogen's input, being the co-director, co-writer and one of the stars, just ask yourself, do you like his style? If you do, then you will undoubtedly like 'This Is The End'. The film's intention is simple; to make you laugh as often and as hard as possible. Much like so many of the cast's earlier releases. Personally, being a fan of Rogen and the gang, I really enjoyed their new film.

The narrative and concept is simple, but interesting, and in some ways quite unique; while attending a party at James Franco's house, the guests are confronted with the apocalypse. To my knowledge, I have not seen another comedy/apocalypse in this style, consequently meaning viewing the film was quite refreshing. Additionally, the cast are all playing themselves, fake and exaggerated versions however (I Hope), which added to both the unique and comic elements of the film. I must also add that certain cameos throughout the film are extremely funny; watch out for Emma Watson, Rihanna & Channing Tatum in particular.

Having said this; this is not to say the film doesn't have a few negatives points. While it is slapstick obvious humor, some scenes where slightly drawn out, and for lack of a better word, silly. At times, it felt like they where trying to hard...but aside from this, on the whole, the film was very comical, in an exaggerated, easily discernible manner.

'This Is The End' - If you like Rogen's style, then I do not doubt you will like the film. I wouldn't recommend watching it with your grandparents however, too much drug use and demonic nudity!

[Review] Man Of Steel - 17th July 2013

2013-07-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

★★★★ Leaves Alot To Be Desired [For rating system, see information tab at the top of the blog]

Release Date: 14th June 2013
-
Director: Zach Snyder
-
Writers: David S. Goyer [Screenplay & Story] Christopher Nolan [Story] Jerry Siegal & Joe Shuster [Character]
-
Cast: Henry Cavil - Amy Adams - Michael Shannon - Diane Lane - Russell Crowe - Laurence Fishburne - Kevin Costner - Antje Traue

Review

So arrives 'Man Of Steel', the new addition to the ‘Superman’ franchise, and arguably one of the most anticipated films of the year. There is no doubt that this film has a lot to live up to, with Christopher Nolan, director of 'The Dark Knight' trilogy and 'Inception' producing, Zack Snyder, the man responsible for 'Sucker Punch', '300' and 'Watchmen' directing, an A-List cast, and the overwhelming popularity of 'Superman' himself, the film was always going to generate a lot of excitement.

Lets begin with the positives shall we? Firstly, 'Man Of Steel' introduced a darker ascetic to the 'Superman' franchise, an element that was without a doubt the result of Nolan and Snyder's creative input. The darker element added a unique twist to the franchise, as the previous 'Superman' films have been portrayed in a lighter manner.

Secondly, somewhat obviously, the visual effects throughout the film were stunning. 'Man Of Steel' employed CGI techniques, visual editing and special effects that rivals the best visual films. This consequently means that the film was action packed to say the least, and if dazzling sequences of action are what you're looking for, then look no further than 'Man Of Steel'.

Unfortunately, however, little more of a positive nature can be said. While the cast and acting was acceptable, it was certainly nothing special, and the direction was nothing more than adequate, offering no real personal inspiration. The problems inherent within the film, stem from its writing.

The film simply sacrifices all to entertain through visuals. I have said it before, and I will defiantly say it again; 'Man Of Steel' is another stylistic film, lacking in all substance. The narrative is predictable, clichéd, and unimaginative, choosing to keep true to the same routes the previous 'Superman' films took. In addition, the dialogue throughout the film is wooden, theatrical and unrealistic, something that actually clashed with the darker, more realistic element they tried to introduce.

‘Man Of Steel’ moves at a quick pace, conforms to the basic stereotypical Hollywood narrative model, and blinds you with modern, stunning visual effects. If you insist on going to see it however, buy 3D tickets, and melt into the seat under explosions and collapsing buildings, as that is about all it has to offer!

‘Man Of Steel’ – a disappointment to say the least, I will not be rushing to see this film again any time soon.

The London Film Museum

2013-07-15T06:42:00.001-07:00

I have just returned from a weekend break in London, and among other things I had a look around the London Film Museum. Thought I would share some of the pictures, and recommend that you go if you are ever in our capital & like films!

Some of the initial Exhibitions:

Some Original Props:

Some Original Costumes:

Mrs Brown (Left) Scarface (Right)

Life Is Beautiful

The Golden Compass (Right) Highlander (Left)

Johnny English (Middle & Left) Mr Bean's Holiday (Right)

The Bourne Identity (Left) Mission: Impossible (Right)

Batman Begins

Superman Returns

[Famous Film Scene] - Glory

2013-07-05T05:57:00.002-07:00

Is 'Glory' a good film? Its debatable. In my opinion, certain aspects of it are questionable. However, one thing that can not be doubted is Denzel Washington's performance. He won the Oscar for best actor in a supporting role in 'Glory', and this powerful scene shows why. Enjoy!

IMDB - Glory

[Review] World War Z - 1st July 2013

2013-07-01T08:18:00.001-07:00

★★★★★★ Worth Watching [For rating system, see information tab at the top of the blog]
-
Release Date: 21st June 2013
-
Director: Marc Forster
-
Writers: Matthew Michael Carnahan - Drew Goddard - Damon Lindelof (Screenplay) J. Michael Straczynski (Screen Story) Max Brooks (Novel)
-
Cast: Brad Pitt - Mireille Enos - Daniella Kertesz

Review

Being a fan of horror, and indeed zombie films, the decision to go and see ‘World War Z’ was never in any doubt. After viewing the trailer, I awaited Pitt’s new film with anticipation. It looked like a refreshing addition to the ever-growing zombie genre, and in short - it was quite enjoyable!

‘World War Z’ is a zombie film on a grander scale. Though other zombie films have been set in a global apocalypse, they tend to remain in one location, or adopt a type of ‘road’ style, in which the characters travel for safety. ‘World War Z’ however paints an accurate picture of a zombie disaster on a global level, following one character (Brad Pitt) as he travels to several locations around the globe, looking for information that could lead to a solution to end the disaster.

What made ‘World War Z’ enjoyable is a combination aspects; an engaging narrative, clever settings, original costumes and concise, effective direction from Marc Forster. Pitt’s role, while unchallenging, is performed well, providing a believable character that the audience can empathise and relate to. Furthermore, while the visual effects used throughout the film are good, they do not overshadow its substance, leaving a well rounded, adept film bringing a unique element into a modern expanding genre.

In addition to this, ‘World War Z’ blends action and horror in an effective manner. Aside from the appearance of the ‘zombies’ themselves, the film is not particularly grotesque or gory, but it does generate good levels of suspense and fear. Additionally, it makes you jump in unexpected places, using horror stingers effectively. Furthermore, the action sequences throughout the film are tense and gripping, and are used to break the film up effectively, keeping pace of the film high and exciting.

‘World War Z’ – A decent, well made film that I would watch again, and recommend to fans of the genre!

Film Recommendation - Road To Perdition

2013-07-01T02:02:00.001-07:00

★★★★★★★★★
Excellent [For rating system, see information tab at top of blog]

Sam Mendes directed 'Road To Perdition' in 2002, his second film after his multi-academy award winning debut 'American Beauty'. Consequently this film was awaited with excitement, and 'Road To Perdition' did not disappoint.

The narrative is based on a story about loyalty, family and moral values, and was set in 1931. Tom Hanks plays the role of Michael Sullivan, a hitman, forced to become a fugitive who takes to the road with his eldest son, after the organisation he worked for betrayed him and murdered his wife and youngest son.

'Road To Perdition', also starring Paul Newman and Daniel Craig, is an example of a perfectionist mastering the conventions of the period crime drama. From the beginning the film feels special ; In terms of the construction, its writing, direction and performances are all excellent, thus producing a simply stunning picture that is both moving, exciting and memorable.

I would recommend 'Road To Perdition' to anyone and consider it to be one of my three favorite 'gangster' films, along with Pulp Fiction and Goodfella's.

[Famous Film Scene] - American Pie

2013-06-27T08:30:00.000-07:00

This is the first comedy scene I have posted! The famous scene that gave the legendary franchise its name; American Pie! Though the latter films are weak, you cannot deny the original three their brilliance - taking the 'teen comedy' genre to a new level. Enjoy!

IMDB - American Pie

[Famous Film Scene] - The Silence Of The Lambs

2013-06-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

'The Silence Of The Lambs' is a truly brilliant film, being one of only three in the history of cinema, to win the best five Oscars; Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Writing and Best Picture. This is the iconic scene in which Clarice Starling, and the audience, first meet Dr. Hannibal Lecter.

IMDB - The Silence Of The Lambs

Film Recommendation - I Saw The Devil

2013-06-17T04:36:00.000-07:00

★★★★★★★

Good [For rating system, see information tab at top of blog]

'I Saw The Devil' is a crime/thriller that I would recommend to the dedicated fans of the more extreme side of cinema. It is, to say the least, intense, containing gore levels that would rival any horror I can think of.

That being said, 'I Saw The Devil' is an excellent film; although brutal and gripping. The narrative blurs the line between what is morally right and wrong, and forces you as an audience to question your beliefs. It follows the story of a secret agent seeking sadistic revenge on the serial killer who murdered his pregnant fiance.

The film is South Korean in origin, directed by Jee-Woon Kim. It stars Min-sik Choi the same leading actor who was critically acclaimed in 'Old Boy'. The direction and writing are very good which, combined with the intense performances from the cast, contributed to a very impressive finished film.

It is not for the faint of heart by any means, but I would recommend it nonetheless!

[Famous Film Scenes] - American Beauty

2013-06-10T06:09:00.000-07:00

For many reasons, both personally and aesthetically, 'American Beauty' is my favorite film. In this moving scene, Ricky shows Jane the 'most beautiful thing he has ever filmed'. This scene combines excellent music, acting and characterization with a stunning visual connotation to create a deeply thought provoking sequence.

American Beauty - IMDB

[Review] The Purge - 5th June 2013

2013-06-05T14:26:00.000-07:00

★★★★ - Leaves Alot To Be Desired [For rating system, see information tab at top of blog]

Release Date: 2nd June 2013

Director: James DeMonaco

Writer: James DeMonaco

Cast: Ethan Hawke - Lena Headey - Max Burkholder - Adelaide Kane - Tony Oller

Review

There is one simple reason for going to see ‘The Purge’: its concept - which is an interesting one! In a future society, all forms of crime, including murder, are legal for twelve hours once a year in a period called ‘The Purge’.

The film, starring Ethan Hawke, is made by the same producers as those responsible for ‘Sinister’, which also featured Hawke. This was a modern horror film that I highly regarded so I thought; why not give ‘The Purge’ a chance?

Unfortunately, ‘The Purge’ disappointed. While the concept of the film is interesting, its execution is lacking in a number of ways. The narrative follows a family who, during the purge, choose to hide out in their house protected by a modern advanced security system. When their youngest son allows what appears to be a desperate homeless man into their home to shelter, the family end up being taken hostage by a sinister group, intent on murdering the homeless victim.

Due to this, the film is set completely in one location; the house. This means that the true extent of the interesting purge concept is not really explored. Instead, the film focuses on horror and suspense which are executed in a predictable manner. A horror film has to be frightening, and ‘The Purge’ is totally lacking in this aspect. While in parts it possesses an atmospheric intensity, it does this using common horror techniques; a few select stingers, some gory deaths and sinister shots of the protagonists in masks. It offers nothing unique, leaving it predictable and…for lack of a better word, boring. It projects no real sense of the intense fear or suspense which, after all, should be the main focus of a horror film.

In addition, the film does also not deliver in terms of the aesthetics. Ethan Hawke and Lena Headey give acceptable performances, realistic enough for this type of film, but the director, James DeMonaco did not imbue the work with anything particularly original.

‘The Purge’ – A simple, standard horror film that unfortunately wastes an interesting concept.

Film Recommedation - Funny Games

2013-06-03T03:49:00.001-07:00

★★★★★★

Worth Watching [For rating system, see information tab at top of blog]

'Funny Games', released in 1997 by Michael Haneke, is an Austrian horror/psychological thriller with a unique and interesting aspect to its delivery.

The film in itself is intense. It follows a family of three being taken hostage by two sadistic boys in their holiday cabin. They force the family to play 'games' for their own amusement.

The factor that makes 'Funny Games' a different, and indeed experimental film is the manner in which the director deliberately breaks the fourth wall. The protagonists throughout the film stare, gesture, and ask the camera questions, engaging the audience in quite a unique way. Furthermore, owing to the fact that the film is an intense psychological horror, this audience-engagement is quite a sinister one. There are a number of obvious scenes and sequences throughout the film that do this.

As you‘re watching, look out for 'the wink', it’s quite an iconic shot from this film. Enjoy!