The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

The Fault in Our Stars, 2014. Directed by Josh BOONE.
USA: Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation  

The Fault in Our Stars is a romantic drama based on the bestselling novel by John Green. After falling in love with the book just over a year ago now, I was extremely excited to see how the movie would turn out. I wasn't disappointed. Living in the UK, I had to wait longer than many audiences to be able to see the movie however I was lucky enough to be able to attend a special fan screening a week early at my local Odeon.

The film follows the story of a superhero of a different kind; Hazel Grace Lancaster (Shailene Woodley). A bright and intelligent 16 year old who was diagnosed with cancer at 13 who has since been connected to oxygen tank that she must carry with her everywhere. But this strong female protagonist will not let her illness define her. Every week Hazel reluctantly attends a support group for cancer survivors and it is here where she meets Augustus Waters (Ansel Elgort); a strapping teenage guy who has lost part of a leg to cancer. He and Hazel connect almost instantly and before you know it become the most lovable couple you have ever seen on screen.  

For me, what makes this film so incredible (aside from how true it is to the novel) is the amazing cast. Woodley has been a favourite actress of mine since The Decedents and The Spectacular Now. I am extremely grateful that she begged for the part, I cannot imagine anybody else doing a better job of it. She is wise, funny and vulnerable. Meanwhile, Elgort portrays an incredible Gus. In his first big movie role aside from playing Woodley’s brother in this years’ Divergent, Elgort does a flawless job at making the entire audience fall in love with him. Dishing out adorably romantic lines such as “It would be a privilege to have my heart broken by you” and giving off a perfect blend of practicality and optimism, audiences of all ages will appreciate this enchanting character. And not to forget Nat Wolff's superb portrayal of Isaac. He will never fail to make you smile even when all you want to do is cry your heart out. (Be sure to look out for Wolff in the leading role of Paper Towns; another fantastic John Green story being adapted for the big screen).

For me the film was perfect however many people who have not read the book often criticise a particular scene in Amsterdam. I have heard on more than one occasion people assume that the story is comparing cancer survivors to Jews in World War II, particularly Anne Frank. However I believe this is a misreading. Hazel and Gus are not being compared to the Frank family in a way that suggests they are similar. They are compared to the family in a way that suggests that if the family could live in hiding and still make something of their lives, still enjoying themselves and staying optimistic, then Hazel and Gus have no excuse not to live their limited lives to the full. I think this is important to understand during the sequence.

All John Green’s fans will know that this story is an emotional roller-coaster with plenty of twists. I cannot go into any more detail than that without giving away spoilers however; it is a poetic yet realistic take on the beauty and unfairness of life. It celebrates the special moments in life but never tries to avoid the difficult times. But the beauty doesn't stop there. It has a fantastic soundtrack featuring some of my favourite artists including Tom Odell, Ed Sheeran and Grouplove.

This wise teen romance is a story that will hit all ages in the heart. I have seen the film twice now and both times there wasn't a dry eye in the house so have a box of tissues at hand. I cannot wait to see more of John Green's incredible stories on the big screen.

Bad Neighbours (2014)

Bad Neighbours, 2014. Directed by Nicholas STOLLER.

 USA: Universal Pictures.

Bad Neighbours (or Neighbors) is a hilarious comedy that tells the story of a couple with a new born baby who have to face new challenges when a fraternity moves in next door. Whilst the trailer made me chuckle, I went into the cinema expecting just another comedy but I was pleasantly surprised.

Adorable couple Mac (Seth Rogen) and Kelly (Rose Byrne) are living in their lovely suburban home with their new baby daughter Stella. They’re constantly trying to adjust to life with a baby; they can’t go out with their friends, they fall asleep constantly and they very rarely have uninterrupted sex (this is shown in a very comical sequence in which they constantly have to pause to turn Stella to face the wall). However life gets more challenging when the house next door goes up for a sale and a fraternity, led by Zac Efron and Dave Franco, moves in. In an attempt to avoid chaos and persuade their new neighbours to keep the noise down, the couple try to bond with them. However when the couple betrays the fraternity by calling the police, a war is declared and all hell breaks loose leading us into the main storyline as the frat and the couple fight back in turn.

The film is simple and a lot of fun. Whilst the narrative isn’t at all complex the characters are loveable and never fail to gain your support. Right to the very end, no matter how much I wanted the couple to win the battle, I still found myself loving the fraternity and attempts to seek revenge. The main cast are brilliant and supported by an extremely talented supporting cast including Lisa Kudrow, Sumbarine’s Craig Roberts and Christopher Mintz-Plasse. Whilst I’ve always found Rogen a talented performer, I was amazed to see Byrne prove herself to be just as capable and a fearless comedic actress throughout the movie.

As a whole, Bad Neighbours is a playful film, packed with jokes, well filmed party sequences and a well-chosen cast of comedic performers. Whilst it is not as perfect as 2011’s Bridemaids, it is silly, adventurous and never failed to make me laugh.

300 (2006)

300, 2006. Film. Directed by Zack SNYDER. USA: Warner Bros.

After months of being begged to watch this film, this week I finally gave in. It was worth the wait.

Most basically, 300 tells the story of the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 B.C. Over the years many of the specifics have been clouded in legend however the facts remain unquestioned. An alliance of Greek city-states fought the invading Persian army in the mountain pass of Thermopylae. A group of 300 Spartan soldiers under the command of King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) stood up against a vastly superior Persian force led by King Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro). Xerxes waited days for Leonidas to surrender or withdraw was left with no option but to move forward. It is well known that the Spartans were greatly outnumbered and therefore did not win the battle. It is one of the most famous last stands in history. 300, is an American action/fantasy film based on the comic series of the same name by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley. The film stays true to the graphic novel, consistently emphasizing the mythology of the battle rather than attempting to be completely historically accurate.

300 is a film about heroism and standing strong in the face of impossible odds. It perpetuates an ideology of masculinity and machismo. The movie ignores aspects such as characterization only ever allowing the audience to know a few characters as types. There is a great warrior/King, a strong independent wife, a traitor and an enemy. I am a big fan of character development however in this situation I could let it pass. There just isn't the time or a reason to let us get to know the protagonists, we just want to know the story. Besides, the story is most simply about a group of 300 warriors and that's exactly what we are given. Knowing how the story ends for the Spartans doesn't lessen the excitement of getting there.

Director Snyder uses desaturated colours and a combination of blue and green screen backgrounds to craft the film's artistic appearance that is so similar to that of the graphic novel. Aside from the story, this is my favourite thing about the film. It makes this basic story look so beautiful and really emphasizes the fantasy elements of the legend.The acting is also brilliant. Butler's performance is full of passion, strength and power and Lena Headey plays Leonidas' queen as a woman of equal strength and emotion.

Overall, the powerful characters, beautiful visuals, energetic action sequences and the strong reflection of comic books makes 300 something very enjoyable. While it doesn't offer an in-depth, conventional retelling of the Battle of Thermopylae, it does make a worthwhile viewing for everybody.

Divergent (2014)

Divergent, 2014. Film. Directed by Neil BURGER. USA: Summit Entertainment

As a big fan of the books, Divergent is a young adults movie that I've been very excited to see since it went into production.

This film is the start of  a new franchise, based on the bestselling trilogy by Veronica Roth. Set in a world divided by factions, it is important that you fit in. At age 16 all citizens must take an aptitude test to decide which faction they belong in: Erudite (Intelligence), Amity (Peaceful), Abnegation (Selflessness), Candor (Honesty) or Dauntless (Bravery). After taking the test you are placed into that faction and you cannot leave to go back to your family and you cannot fail initiation or you will become 'Factionless'. However not everybody who takes the test can be placed into a single faction; they might fit into 2 or 3. These people are known as Divergent and are a threat to the system.

Divergent follows the story of a young girl named Tris who discovers she is divergent and is forced to choose a faction and hide her secret from the rest of the world. She teams up with her mysterious trainer, Four, to find out what makes Divergents so dangerous and why they're being hunted out before it becomes too late. The film stars some of my favourite upcoming stars including Shailene Woodley who portrays the brave, confident protagonist perfectly. Ansel Elgort stars as her brother Caleb, projecting the mature and mysterious character extremely well (I look forward to seeing these two star alongside each other again in June, The Fault in Our Stars). Also starring in the film is Miles Teller. His naturally confident personality shows through as he gives an excellent portrayal of Peter, an obnoxious initiate who doesn't like anyone that does better than him. This is particularly interesting to see if you have see Woodley and Teller star alongside each other as close friends in The Spectacular Now. British actor Theo James (Downton Abbey) plays the role of the mysterious Four brilliantly showing the perfect balance between masculinity and sensitivity of the character in the book. The only problem I found here is the fact that there are often times when he looks a lot older than Tris even though the age gap is only supposed to be a couple of years. This is something lots of people have picked up on however I am willing to let this pass. Once Tris has settled into her faction, her costume, hair and makeup alters which actually makes her look a little older, making the relationship seem more plausible. Finally, Kate Winslet plays the important role of Erudite leader Jeanine. Although it is strange to see Winslet playing an antagonist, I believe she did an excellent job. She gives off a sense of confidence, concern and naivety that is essential to the character's personality; it is important to understand that she honestly  believes what she is doing is for the good of society.

Divergent is a film that illustrates typical conventions of your typical Teen Movie. It is all about fitting in, belonging in a society and finding out who you really are. This has been done time and time again but I don't see a problem with it if it means connecting to a young audience. In terms of similarity to the book, there is depth missing to the film that only the true fans might actually understand. Take initiation for example: isn't there something really terrifying about the idea of forcing 16 year olds to face their worse fears over an over again until they're no longer afraid? (The use of serums is also quite dark when you see what they're being used for!) Obviously this is another film destined to be compared to films such as The Hunger Games and I can't deny there are similarities, however there are also many differences. Arguably, their post-war society is Utopian.It is an ideal society where everyone is living in harmony because of the factions. The dystopia side of life is only clear to those who ask questions and understand the danger of the system. I would also  argue there is a lot more chemistry between the characters, making them all more lovable than those we often see these days. We learn a lot about them and we understand them. The only other criticism I have is it at 139 minutes, this adaption might have been a little too long. I might be biased but what film isn't these days?

I could talk about it for days but in conclusion, Divergent is an excellent adaption of the book and was well worth the wait. The young stars are brilliant and create a perfect sense of chemistry that allow you to love and care about the characters. Naturally, everyone will compare it to The Hunger Games but it is also important to see it as something separate. The society is a post-war Utopia that is only stable because of the factions, the people who don't fit in and try to question the necessity of factions are those who will see the depth and the dangers of it. As it doesn't quite portray the depth of the book, this film is arguably a little too long however it is definitely worth a watch, especially if you've read the books.

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

The Wolf of Wallstreet, 2013. Film. Directed by Martin SCORSESE.
USA: Paramount Pictures

Based on a true story, The Wolf of Wall Street follows the life of Jordan Belfort from his rise to life as a wealthy stock-broker to his downfall. It's a story of crime and corruption.

Leonardo DiCaprio plays the central role very over the top and very confidently. We see the character constantly behaving on the edge of the law as he goes from somebody who has almost nothing to someone who has everything he had ever dreamed of. Jonah Hill plays Belfort’s sidekick Donnie Azoff, who decides he wants to be a part of the high life. Hill’s performance is promising and brings a lot of humour to the film. I found his role to be the most entertaining throughout the film.

In terms of content, the film is predominately about money, drugs and sex. Many critics have argued that it is glamourising Belfort’s way of life and this is not difficult to see. From beginning to end, we are constantly shown scenes depicting Belfort’s lifestyle in a way that almost feels like you’re being forced to like him and the activities he’s involved in. As for glamourising, I think it depends on if the character of Belfort can win you over. For me, it just made me hate him more.

Throughout the entire film, we only see the life of Belfort. We are constantly in his company and the whole story is narrated by him. He’s doing terrible things, destroying people’s lives and consistently breaking the law and yet we never get to see the victims of the situation. It appears that director, Scorsese is insisting you bond with the character and get to know him but it isn’t that easy. There are times where you really can’t connect with him and I often did not care what happened to him in the end. Morally, he's hateful and therefore the content just doesn't interest you. At 3 hours long, this is obviously problematic. Supposedly, Scorsese struggled to get the running time down under 3 hours. My question is why? From one viewing it is easy to see that there are plenty of unnecessary scenes that could've been cut; for example, the countless sex scenes and drug taking. After the first hour, everyone has got the message and, in my situation, doesn’t want anything to do with it anymore. We know what he is like. We know what is going on in his life. We know he’s a drug addict. We know he has plenty of money to waste. There is no longer any need to tell us again and it is okay to move on and save everybody half an hour.

The portrayal of women is also an issue. We’re seeing a man's world and a man's life through a man's eyes. Women are constantly objectified and that just makes it even harder to see the appeal in his lifestyle. This all makes the real Jordan Belfort's cameo a little questionable. After seeing what he'd put people through and what an awful life he led I just wasn't sure if I wanted to see him have the opportunity to appear in the film.

The Wolf of Wall Street seemed a little unmediated. At any given moment there was a lot of "stuff" going on that was difficult to appreciate and often not that relevant to the story. However, it isn’t completely unenjoyable. DiCaprio’s central performance is funny and works well. There is a particular scene with him crawling to his car that was extremely funny. It undeniably lasted for far too long but it was entertaining. The relationship between Jordan Belfort and Donnie Azoff is also well done. Visually, the camera work was good too. It clearly reflects how the character is feeling throughout every situation.

I understand this review is quite negative and I didn’t find the film that spectacular but I’m not suggesting it isn’t worth a watch. It is definitely worth a go if you’ve got three hours to spare and if you have the patience to sit through it until the end. After all, it is almost more exhausting than it is entertaining.

[Trailer Talk...] Divergent

Divergent is a film I have been waiting for for a while.

This film is the start of  a new franchise, based on the bestselling books by, 25 year old, Veronica Roth. Set in a world divided by factions, it is important that you fit in. At age 16 all citizens must take a test to decide in which faction they belong: Erudite (Intelligence), Amity (Peaceful), Abnegation (Selflessness), Candor (Honesty) or Dauntless (Bravery). After taking the test you are placed into that faction and you cannot leave to go back to your family and you cannot fail initiation or you will become 'Factionless'. However not everybody who takes the test can be placed into a single faction; they might fit into 2 or 3. These people are known as Divergent.

Divergent follows the story of a young girl named Tris who discovers she is divergent and is forced to choose a faction and hide her secret from the rest of the world. She teams up with her mysterious trainer, Four, to find out what makes Divergents so dangerous and why they're being hunted out before it becomes too late.

The film stars some of my favourite upcoming stars including Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort and Miles Teller. British actor Theo James plays the role of Four and Kate Winslet plays the leading role of Erudite leader Jeanine.

I know that after Harry Potter we've see a lot of books made into film over the past few years including Twilight and The Hunger Games but after reading the series I really am excited to see the books come alive on the big screen. It has also been directed by Neil Burger, director of Limitless which is safely a favourite of mine so this adds to my excitement! I can't wait to see how this turns out!!

Frozen (2013)

Frozen, 2013. Film. Directed by Chris BUCK & Jennifer LEE.
USA: Disney

I don’t normally review animated films however after Frozen’s triumph at the Academy Awards this week I just had to share my point of view.

Frozen is an animated comedy inspired by Hans Christian Anderson’s fairy tale The Snow Queen. It is a funny and exciting adventure based on two sisters, Anna (Kristen Bell) and Elsa (Idina Menzel) who are young princesses living in a castle in Arendelle. The problem is Elsa has dangerous icy powers that have led to her being isolated from the rest of the kingdom and her little sister. When Elsa comes of age, it is her turn to become Queen however certain events lead to Elsa’s secret getting out and she flees to the mountains leaving the entire kingdom trapped in an eternal winter. Being a fearless optimist, Anna teams up with ice salesman, Kristoff (Jonathan Groff) and his reindeer Sven to navigate the snowy mountain range in order to persuade her sister to bring back summer. Meanwhile, the team bump into Olaf (Josh Gad); a cheerful snowman that longs to enjoy summer, comically oblivious to the disastrous effects it would have on him. This character is fantastic and undeniably hilarious however he is not actually present at all until the half-way point. At first this frustrated me a little bit because he is what makes the film so funny however, on watching it a second time; all the main characters are just as loveable.

Nothing about Frozen seems particularly formulaic which is refreshing in a Disney animation. Similar to the plot of Brave where the mother-daughter bond fuelled the movie, this story is driven by the love Anna has for her older sister.  It teaches the younger audience that true love doesn’t have to involve a prince. It can be found between sisters. This is not the only refreshing moment of the film. There is a very comical moment when Anna runs up to Elsa to announce that she is going to marry a prince that she has only just met and Elsa refuses to give her blessing stating “You can’t marry a man you’ve just met!”. This is later reinforced repeatedly by the character Kristoff, suggesting that true love is not something that happens in one day. Having grown up surrounded by films perpetuating Disney’s Prince Charming/true love ideology, this is something I think is excellent.

During the film there are eight original songs writer by Robert Lopez and his wife Kristen Anderson-Lopez. All of the songs are perfect, meaningful and qualifies this animation and a full-blown musical. (I’m sure we can expect a future Broadway adaption!)

Frozen is a film with plenty of laughs and an emotionally gripping plot. Visually, the animation is beautiful with its snowy mountains and ice palaces.  It is a rare example of a Walt Disney animation that reaches the same emotional level as a Pixar film that, I believe, thoroughly deserved 2 Oscars. I’d recommend it to everyone.

The Spectacular Now (2013)

The Spectacular Now, 2013. Film. Directed by James PONSOLDT.
USA: A24

The Spectacular Now is an American coming of age movie directed by James Ponsoldt and based on the book of the same name by Tom Tharp. I haven’t read the book myself however, when I saw the film was from the writers of (500) Days of Summer I just had to give it a watch.

This movie is about two 18 year olds, Sutter (Miles Teller) and Aimee (Shailene Woodley), who are in their senior year at high school. This could easily be your average teen movie packed with clichés and characters crippled by irony but surprisingly it isn’t. Being a 19 year old I have watched a LOT of coming of age movies and for me this was a rare one. Sure it involves parties, prom, sex and alcohol but all of these themes are handled respectfully and never insults the characters by treating them cheaply.  Both characters appear very real. They are both very clever but both make silly mistakes. They both appear confident on the outside but both are concealing weaknesses on the inside.

Sutter, the boy, likes to live in the moment. He likes to have a laugh, go to parties, drink and generally have a good time. He works hard but he is very naïve when it comes to thinking about his future. Aimee is a dreamer. She is a sweet, selfless and hard working girl working towards getting into college and looking forward to a successful and happy future. When Sutter wakes up one morning, sprawled across an unknown front lawn, he meets Aimee who recognises him from school. From this moment on, the film continues in a naturalistic tone, following the two characters as they get to know each other, hanging out and just truly enjoying each other’s company. The film then develops further when the two characters reach an intent state when they want to help each other with their weaknesses. Sutter wants Aimee to stand up to her mom; Aimee wants Sutter to find out more about his dad. This is what the movie is building up to. It’s nothing really exciting however it is where we really get to understand the lives of the protagonists.

The Spectacular Now is refreshing film. It has such a strong sense of realism you just don’t see in many teen movies. Whilst the novel is set in Oklahoma, the director chose to shoot the film in his hometown of Athens, Georgia to create a college town, suburban atmosphere for the movie. I believe this has really contributed to the personal feel that makes the film so different from other coming of age movies. The film also respects the characters in such a way that makes you care about them and understand them both together as a couple and as individuals. Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley are perfect. They both look, speak and feel like real high school seniors. Teller’s Sutter expresses confidence in such a down to earth, loveable way you can’t help but smile and Woodley’s Aimee is truly beautiful inside and out but in a very real sort of way. She is full of concern for others, love and warm smiles. By the end of the film you feel like you know them. You’ve made it through high school with them and you truly care about what happens next.

Recommend to: Fans of the cast

                           Anyone looking for a heart-warming film with a very real feel to it

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010)

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, 2010. Film. Directed by Edgar WRIGHT.
USA: Universal Pictures

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World is an action comedy based on the comic book series by Bryan Lee O’Malley. Director Edgar Wright (Shaun of The Dead, Hot Fuzz) brings the books to life to tell the story of 23 year old Scott who falls in love with “American ninja” delivery girl Ramona Flowers. However she comes with baggage in the form of seven evil exes who are each determined to fight Scott in battles to the death. In order to win the love of his dream girl, Scott has to defeat the exes. Scott Pilgrim vs. The World is a liberating fantasy combining music, manga and anime whilst creatively integrating comic book and video game culture to create a hugely entertaining film with a powerful impact.

In general I believe that the cast are fantastic. It might be my imagination but the whole cast seem to have similar large, round eyes at that make it easy to picture them as their comic book characters. Michael Cera plays the role of Scott, giving a strong and engaging performance. Mary Elizabeth Winstead gives a great performance as the laid back and mysterious Ramona. The surrounding cast are just as brilliant, particularly Aubrey Plaza who plays Julie Powers and Anna Kendrick who plays Scott’s older sister. Even though neither have a lot of screen time, when they do show up they never fail to make me laugh.

Together, Wright and cinematographer Bill Pope (The Matrix) create a visual wonderland with no boundaries. The comedy isn’t just in the script but in the way it has been filmed. Wright has said in interviews that he staged the film as a musical however replacing the musical numbers with battles. Each fight has its own energy with a very different atmosphere each time that will keep you engaged meaning that even though the battles are frequent, it never feels too repetitive. They are all packed with unleashed imagination and creativity it’s very difficult to get bored of them!

After reading many other reviews and hearing other people’s reactions to the film, it is very clear that not everyone loves the film as much as I do. It seems that teens and younger adults really enjoy it whilst many people over 40 don’t seem too keen so it is definitely aimed at younger, more imaginative minds. Wright has created a film completely different to his popular Hot Fuzz and Shaun of The Dead but without a doubt, I find it just as entertaining. It’s a film buzzing with energy. It’s not an emotional journey with tears and life lessons etc. but it projects the fact that, no matter what your age, there are no limitations to the world inside your head and because of this, it never fails to amaze you.

Recommend to: Anyone with an imaginative mind

                         Fans of the comic books

                         Fans of the cast

                         Anyone looking for a fun, laid back film that doesn’t require too much concentration

To Rome with Love (2012)

To Rome With Love, 2012. Film. Directed Woody ALLEN.
USA: Sony Pictures Classics

To Rome with Love is a charming rom-com that tells four stories. The stories are intercut but are in no way linked other than being set in Rome; each story being just as interesting and likable as the next. This film is not overly exciting or surprising but it makes you smile and gives you a warm feeling of satisfaction that director Woody Allen seems to create effortlessly.

When it comes to the characters we never find out much about the characters so it’s almost like starting to watch a sitcom but halfway through the series, but I believe that most of the appeal comes from the casting. The film is full of wonderful actors and actresses that make it easy to just sit back and enjoy the film without worrying too much about the depth of it.

My favourite story involves Woody Allen himself playing Jerry, a “retiring” opera director who is visiting Rome with his wife (Judy Davis) to meet their daughter (Alison Pill) and her fiancé Michelangelo (Flavio Parenti). Allen’s self-doubting character brings a lot of humour to the film as he makes a firm point of mispronouncing Michelangelo’s name and when he tries to persuade his future in-law to give up his career as an undertaker and instead become a professional opera singer after hearing him sing in the shower. The cast also includes a favourite actor of mine: Jesse Eisenberg as Jack, a budding architect who lives in Rome with his girlfriend Sally (Greta Gerwig). His role in this film is not unlike the characters he plays in any other film however it is undoubtedly another entertaining performance as we watch his character struggle not to fall for Sally’s best friend Monica and another favourite of mine (Ellen Page). Alec Baldwin co-stars in this story in a very ambiguous way that I found very confusing at first but it seems his character is able to simply materialise and give advice to Jack about his careless behaviour. Another episode involves newlyweds Antonio and Milly played by Alessandro Tiberian and Alessandra Mastronardi. The two are visiting Rome so that she can meet his family however one day they become separated. Milly crosses paths with her favourite movie star and innocent Antonio ends up the unwilling recipient of a hooker (Penelope Cruz) who, due to a series of unfortunate events, he frantically has to pass of as his wife. While these stories are all a lot of fun, the fourth story is one that I might never fully appreciate because I feel the humour of the story fades quickly. It deals with the idea that some people are famous for being famous. Roberto Benigni’s character falls victim to overnight fame and is followed everywhere by paparazzi until he can find no escape.  It is a clever and very honest notion that is balanced out by the absurd and magical events that happen throughout the other episodes however I will admit, after a while I got very tired of it.

I have seen very few Woody Allen films so maybe that’s why my view is slightly different to those reflected in other reviews I have read? To Rome with Love is not as magical as Midnight in Paris but the cast are still excellent and I find this film very relaxing and pleasantly entertaining to watch. If you’ve got some time and don’t mind a few subtitles every now and again I would really recommend giving it a watch. It can be a lot of fun just don’t try and take it too seriously.

Recommend to: Fans of the cast

                            Anyone looking for a relaxing film that doesn’t take itself too seriously

Submarine (2010)

Submarine, 2010. Film. Directed by Richard AYOADE. UK: Warp Films

Submarine follows the life of 15 year old Oliver Tate who sets himself the mission to save his parents’ marriage from his mum’s ex: Graham Parvis (Paddy Considine), a “spiritual ninja” in leather trousers, claiming to have supernatural powers of perception. Oliver also plans to lose his virginity before he reaches 16.

Every single character in this film has eccentric hair, a quirky personality, odd jobs or peculiar hobbies. Oliver (Craig Roberts) is a perceptive, sharp 15 year old boy and the star of the richly self-narrated film. He discusses how he imagines his own death and the whole country mourning with extensive TV coverage, interviews and crying teenage girls. His voiceover details family and romantic preconceptions about the people in his life and sets the tone of the film. It’s bizarre, funny and full of self-indulgence. Oliver controls the film as we see life through his eyes; from bullying, having a girlfriend and family problems. Actor Craig Roberts manages to capture the awkward teen making a long lasting impression as the person we spend most of the time with on screen. Oliver’s girlfriend Jordanna (Yasmin Paige) speaks a lot less than Oliver but she clearly has mild pyromaniac tendencies. Her and Oliver spend time together lighting matches and playing with firecrackers.

Submarine is a comedy drama however the humour is never very self-aware, similar to Oliver who never seems to realise just how mad he is. The peaceful soundtrack by Alex Turner and the visuals throughout the film match this as the story is told with great empathy. Submarine isn’t as funny as Napoleon Dynamite and doesn’t contain the predictable stereotypes of The Breakfast Club. Depending on how you look at it, it can also be a depressing story filled with self-pity however in my opinion, director Richard Ayoade manages to find quirky comedy in every situation making it just as enjoyable as any other teen movie.

This coming of age film can be painful to watch and at times it will leave you feeling incredibly happy that you’re not the misunderstood hero. Submarine is unmistakably heart-warming, adorable and very funny. You will find yourself truly aching through the awkward moments, even if you're laughing out loud.

Recommend to: Teenagers

                           Adults who appreciate coming of age movies

                          Anyone that enjoys films with a simple plot but quirky characters

Blue Valentine (2010)

Blue Valentine, 2010, Film. Directed by Derek CIANFRANCE.
USA: Incentive Filmed Entertainment

This is a film that was introduced to me about 8 months ago by my A2 Film teacher as an attempt to inspire me for my creative coursework and that is exactly what it was to me. Inspiring.

Blue Valentine is a romance drama and an honest love story that follows the love life and marriage of the couple Dean and Cindy that is so convincingly portrayed by Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams. At first life seems easy for the cute couple. She’s immoral and realistic whilst he is cheeky and caring. But when Cindy discovers she’s pregnant by a former boyfriend Cindy and Dean are brought together in a way that will ultimately ruin them. From here on, everyday disappointments are a cause for bitterness and hatred. Cindy becomes frustrated and emotionally unavailable as Dean’s lack of ambition and laid-back attitude clearly becomes too much for her. She is the breadwinner whilst he chooses to be a stay at home dad as an excuse not to work.

Director Derek Cianfrance, along with Cinematographer Andrij Parekh, creates an effective film not just through the characters but through construction. He steadily cross cuts the present and the past, brutally contrasting scenes of disturbance with brightly lit romance creating an admirable narrative and showing the audience that it is  lack of understanding and forgiveness that is tearing the couple apart. The actors give such a strong, heartfelt performance as they show sturdy commitment but sufficient restraint to keep you listening and no matter what happens, you are never distracted from the heart of the matter. The effective script makes interactions between the characters seem very natural giving the entire situation a very credible feel that makes Blue Valentine seem that much more genuine. Hand held shots and close ups are used frequently in the past sequences illustrating the intimate connection between Dean and Cindy whilst the natural colours and lighting contrasts well with the artificiality of the hotel room scenes, reflecting the changes in their relationship.

Blue Valentine is about anxiety, married life and how (to quote Gosling’s character) we always hurt the ones we love. This quiet, intense, tragedy elicits a strong emotional response as it crushes the myth of cinematic love and portrays relationships in an authentic way, creating painful realism that you will rarely see anywhere else. This is definitely not a date movie and unless you’re in a secure relationship is really something better off watched alone but it is an honest, visually beautiful film that I have found to be truly memorable.

Recommend to: Film fans

                        Anyone that appreciates good cinematography

                        Fans of the actors

                        Anyone that likes straightforward, honest, love stories

Saving Mr. Banks (2013)

Saving Mr. Banks, 2013. Film.
Directed by John Lee HANCOCK. USA: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Last month I ended up going on a very spontaneous trip to the local cinema to see “any film that happened to be on at the time”. Who would’ve thought I was about to discover one of my favourite movies ever?

Saving Mr. Banks is comedy drama set in the 1960’s that tells the story of the struggles Walt Disney and author P. L. Travers faced leading up to the film adaption of Mary Poppins. Travers (a comically challenging Emma Thompson) is living in England and living off of royalties from the once beloved book series Mary Poppins. When the money starts to run low, the author finds herself in awful economic strain and travels very unwillingly to  Hollywood to meet Walt Disney   (a very cheerful, openhearted Tom Hanks) who has been badgering her for film rights for 20 years. In Travers’ eyes, Disney’s plans for Mary Poppins are simply butchering her work. Knowing how the finished picture turns out, it is clear that a lot of persuading must happen for Disney to convince the writer to allow him to turn her book into a magical music rather than the live action drama she was set on. Knowing what must happen in the end only makes the film more enjoyable. I was truly captivated as I watched the story unfold and constantly longed to learn to more about the story behind one of my favourite films from my childhood.

One of the reasons Saving Mr. Banks is so engrossing is the inclusion of interwoven sequences showing the events of Travers’ childhood and particularly the love she had for her reassuring, drunkard father (Colin Farrell). These sequences lead us to an explanation for her attitude towards life and, most of all, the characters in her books. The portrayal of Travers is perfect – we see a perfect balance between her cantankerous side that makes you wish she’d give in already and her vulnerable side that makes you long for her happiness. There are plenty of secondary characters to fall in love with particularly those involving Ralph the chauffeur (Paul Giamatti) who never fails to make me smile. The production scenes with the Sherman brothers (B. J. Novak and Jason Schwartzman) create wonderful comical moments that will make you frustrated, laugh and even, at one moment, make you want to cry.

As a spontaneous choice in film, I did not know what to expect from Saving Mr. Banks however I will admit I was expecting a lot of Disney magic. Whilst there’s no denying, there are a lot of magical moments, songs and comical scenes; it is a lot deeper than that. This is one of those films that will move you and stay with you for a long time afterwards.

Recommend to: Anyone with a love for Mary Poppins!

People who don’t mind a film that will make them cry

Anyone who doesn't mind the fact they will find themselves singing “Let’s Go Fly a Kite!” for days afterwards

Adventureland (2009)

Adventureland,2009. Film. Direceted by Greg MOTTOLA.
USA: Miramax Films

Adventureland could have been like every other film of its genre. It is a comedy drama about young love and fun summers which is very universal and very relatable however it is quietly funny with a personal touch that creates a good impact on the spectator.

Director Greg Mottola wrote and directed this film based around his own experience of working at an amusement park after college so the whole film has a very realistic atmosphere about it. This is extended by the 80s theme that is subtle but consistent throughout the film including the soundtrack, big hair and eccentric styles that can help you imagine the events really happening. Mottola has managed to translate his memories and emotions on screen which makes it that much more entertaining for the audience.

The lead role of James is portrayed by Jesse Eisenberg. He’s a very skilled comedy actor and a favourite of mine and, as expected, does a great job of creating such a likeable character and a strong central lead. Kristen Stewart plays the role of Em, the lead female character. Her character is intelligent, dignified and very lively compared to her role of Bella in Twilight. Both actors give a very admirable performance that means much of our satisfaction comes from our involvement in their everyday lives. The only complaint I have about the cast is Ryan Reynolds playing the “bad guy” Mike. I am a big fan of Ryan Reynolds; I think he’s a brilliant actor however I don’t think he suited the role in this film. Whilst playing a lady’s man like in many of his films, I think he looks too naive and innocent to be a married man having an affair with a young woman. He’s just not intimidating enough to play such a serious role and at times I find it very difficult to take him seriously.

In terms of the plot, it is a very simple film as we just follow the story of James as he tries earning money to follow his dreams, goes on awkward dates and falls in love. The laid back, subtle humour throughout keeps the film interesting and enjoyable but unfortunately there aren’t any iconic moments that will affect you emotionally or stay with you for a long time and I think this is the reason lots of people don’t like it or haven’t even heard of it.

Although I have criticized the film a few times, Adventureland is a film I find very enjoyable if you are looking for something laid back and relaxing to watch. It isn’t mind-blowing or hilarious but it is fun to watch and the loveable characters and the personal feel creates an enjoyable experience for not only teens but people beyond the target audience.

Recommend to: Fans of the cast

                         Anyone looking for something relaxing and fun to watch

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a drama/romance written and directed by Stephen Chbosky, the author of the original book. To me, this instantly suggests success as it means everything we see on screen is exactly what the author imagined. This is a film that stays very true to the book which is one of the reasons I love it so much however this also means people who haven't read it can still appreciate it just as much without the background understanding.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower,2012. Film.
Directed by Stephen CHBOSKY. USA: Summit Entertainment

Set in 1990’s, the film follows the story of an introvert freshman with a troubled past as he is faced with the challenge of high school, making friends and falling in love. The book is written as a series of letters written to an unknown friend and the film follows this structure as letters are read out as a voice over and we see the story develop.  The lead role of Charlie is taken on by actor Logan Lerman. After seeing him playing the lead role in Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief, I was not sure whether he could handle the task of playing the smart but socially inept freshman although I’ll admit he proved me wrong. It’s refreshing to see him play such a modest character and he catches the perfect tone of voice for a teenager who has still not recovered from the traumatic events of his past. Whilst in school, Charlie makes friends with two seniors who take him under their wing and teach him enjoy life and embrace his individuality. The role of Sam is played by Harry Potter star Emma Watson who excels in the role of Charlie’s love interest and, in my opinion, does a brilliant job at discarding any signs of Hermione Granger. Another star of the film is Ezra Miller who plays Sam’s gay, step-brother Patrick. Patrick is an important character in the story as he proves to Charlie that you can express your feeling to others and that it’s okay to talk about things. This is the first time I’d ever seen Miller’s acting and I was extremely impressed at the balance between humour and tenderness he managed to bring to the role of Charlie’s friend and I believe he fits into the role perfectly. Finally there’s the caring English teacher Mr Anderson played brilliantly by Paul Rudd. As my favourite character in the book, this is where my only criticism lies. Mr Anderson is a wonderful character who supports Charlie and comes out with the most beautiful, inspirational lines (e.g. “We accept the love we think we deserve”) and in my eyes; we don’t get to see enough of him.

Visually, this is a beautiful film. From the creative opening sequence where we are shown shots of lights through a tunnel as if we’re in a moving vehicle, it is clear that the camera is focusing on events in the way Charlie would look at them. In terms of costume and props, clear attention has been paid to detail such a cassette tapes and typewriters however the 90’s theme has certainly not been overdone. We are reminded of the year just enough that we can’t forget but not so much that it distracts us from the overall picture. The 90’s soundtrack used throughout the film has become a favourite of mine as it’s been used flawlessly to reflect upon the character’s emotions as Charlie learns he’s not the only person with a troubled past. This period setting makes the film relatable for adults and adolescents alike.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is not your average coming-of-age movie. Like the book, it makes you see life in a different way. It will make you think, it will make you smile and no doubt will make you cry. I guarantee if the charming characters don’t quite find a place in your heart; the powerful ending will stay with you for a long time.

Recommend to: Anyone that’s read the book

   Fans of the cast

   Anyone that likes deep stories that make you think

[Trailer Talk...] The Fault in Our Stars

I'm normally very cynical when a book gets made into a film, especially if it's something that means a lot to me. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is one of my favourite books; it is beautiful and such an emotional roller coaster I was actually sort of nervous knowing it was being made into a movie. I've kept track of the production since they first started filming last year and finally seeing this trailer has really got my hopes up! Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort are such a wonderful choice in casting and the film's script appears to be very true to the book which is a massive relief for me! If the film is in anyway close to this trailer I am going to be a very happy [tearful] person.

Director: Josh Boone 
UK Release Date: 20/06/2014

Drive (2011)

Drive, 2011. Film. Directed by Nicolas WINDING REFN.
USA: Bold Films

Now for one of my favourite films. 

Originally intended as a fast-and-furious blockbuster starring Hugh Jackman, Drive tells the story of a Hollywood stuntman, mechanic and getaway driver as he ends up in more trouble than he can handle when he chooses to help his neighbour. It is clear that this is a film with a strong potential to be very Hollywood, fortunately it is far from it.

The Driver (Ryan Gosling) is an enigmatic character that we are never told anything about, not even his name. We are made to learn about The Driver through his facial expressions and his behaviour towards the other characters. Whilst his story evolves with quiet grace we learn about the dark side of his life but it is made evident through the introduction of his neighbour Irene (Carey Mulligan) that this mysterious man has a warm heart. The relationship between the two characters is based purely on tension; he is lonely but cannot commit due to his work and she is married. Though the sequence involving these two are predominately silent, our understanding comes from Gosling and Mulligan’s exceptional performance. From silent glances, small smiles and the simple way his eyes follow her as she moves around the room, words are just unnecessary.

Drive relies strongly on subtleties and shock. Throughout the film, non-diegetic sound is used sparingly, building the atmosphere only when it’s really needed. Unlike other films in the genre, car chases are few but extremely effective as we grow to feel for the silent protagonist and immerse ourselves into his dangerous life. Whilst there is no wall-to-wall action, violence drives the film on. From a heist gone wrong involving a femme fatale to an elevator sequence with The Driver, Irene and an assassin, the distressing scenes are filmed in such a careful way that you can’t ever look away for long.

Before this film, I hadn’t heard of the director however I think it’s safe to say that Nicolas Winding Refn deserved to win the Best Director award at Cannes, 2011. Right down to The Driver’s tooth pick, Refn has an exceptionally careful eye for detail that I find truly inspiring. Drive presents a strong juxtaposition between light and dark as it flicks between The Driver’s sunlit days with Irene and her son to driving through the streets in the middle of the night but the warm tones of Refn’s LA could not have been achieved without the inspiring cinematography by Newton Thomas Sigel. It is clear that every shot has been carefully thought out creating not only a stylish film but a visually beautiful film. Sigel manages to pick up Refn’s details perfectly and illustrates The Driver and his relationships flawlessly.

For me, Drive has been an exciting experience and I wish I could recommend it to everyone however it is undeniable that this film is not for anybody. If you’re looking for fast paced action this film definitely isn’t for you. Despite the violence, it can be a gentle film and it takes concentration in order to understand the characters and their motives but if you have the time and the patience Drive will not disappoint. It is slow and quiet but admirably beautiful.

Recommend to: Fans of crime films but not fast paced action

                            Anyone with a love for the actors

                            Someone with patience to sit and watch a quiet film but won’t mind the violence.