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.

Now You See Me (2013)

Now You See Me, 2013. Film. Directed by Louis LETERRIER.
USA: Summit Entertainment

Now You See Me tells the story of four street magicians brought together by an unknown benefactor to pull off a series of outstanding heists disguised as magic shows. Comparing this film to Ocean’s Eleven would be over selling it but it does have a similar vibe.

The street magicians, also known as The Four Horsemen, consist of the successful magician J. Daniel Atlas (Jesse Eisenberg), the mentalist Merritt McKinney (Woody Harrelson), the escape artist Henley Reeves (Isla Fisher) and the pickpocket Jack Wilder (Dave Franco). Each of the characters are interesting and loveable modern-day Robin Hoods and, although a little underused, the all-star cast perform as amazingly as I’d hoped. They all work very well on their own and with the rest of the cast and really help to make this film fun, cheerful and a real pleasure to watch.

The overall plot of Now You See Me is slightly unstable but the film is a lot of fun. It's just clever enough to keep you guessing with enough minor reveals to hold its audience’s interest up until the very end where the truth is revealed. I enjoyed the twist as it wasn’t as predictable as you might expect however I have read many reviews where people weren’t so impressed and I believe that how you react to the end twist is likely to define what you think of the movie in its entirety. It is debatable that prestidigitation is best kept as a live experience as the stable focus of a camera makes misdirection very difficult but director Louis Leterrier has found a way to turn illusions, sleight of hand, magic tricks and mirrors into an exciting cinematic experience. The film isn’t perfect but Now You See Me manages to put pieces together in a way that is undoubtedly satisfying.

Now You See Me is a film packed with so many possibilities that when it wastes a few, you really don’t care and you soon forget about the missed opportunities as you begin to learn not to believe everything you see. As a whole, this film has its flaws. There is a romance subplot that seems almost unnecessary but it’s cute enough to appreciate. There’s a weak script and the plot doesn’t always make sense if you start to think about it too much but when it ends you’d be more than happy to watch it again. It is a really enjoyable experience as long you’re not looking for anything mind-blowing and you don’t try to analyse it. As the film repeatedly reminds us “The closer you think you are, the less you will actually see.”

Recommend to: Fans of heist movies

                             Fans of the cast

                             Anyone looking for something entertaining, exciting but nothing that takes itself too seriously

(500) Days of Summer (2009)

(500) Days of Summer, 2009. Film. Directed by Marc WEBB.
USA: Fox Searchlight Pictures

(500) Days of Summer is a romantic comedy with a difference. It turns the entire genre around and shows you the reality of love. Things don’t always work out. People get hurt. The film tells the story of a greetings card designer called Tom and how he falls in love with his boss’s assistant, Summer, who does not believe in true love. Whilst the story seems to be very basic, the structure is what makes this film really interesting. It exemplifies the ups and down’s in relationships which is something many romantic comedies fail to illustrate.

The film has an alternative narrative that works in the way our brains would when we are trying to go over events in our heads, the days become muddled and unorganised. This may be annoying to some people as there is no chronological order to the 500 days however it shows us how Tom remembers Summer; the good times and the bad times. We are seeing the story as Tom wants to believe it. Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is not your average male protagonist; he’s interested in architecture, visits museums and truly appreciates the beauty of life. This loveable and believable character is strong enough to believe in true love but vulnerable enough to get hurt. Summer (Zooey Deschanel) is not your average female protagonist.  She truly likes Tom for who he is but she isn’t ready for a committed relationship. She’s smart, fun and very loveable but Tom can’t have her. (500) Days of Summer reflects upon common human weaknesses: building our expectations too high and only remembering the good things, but it achieves it in a comforting way that won’t depress you, it just makes it relatable and suitable for anybody. Summer remains a mysterious character throughout the film and we follow Tom’s expectations hoping that maybe she’ll give in. But this is a film that breaks all the Hollywood rules. She doesn’t have to give in. Anything could happen.

Director Marc Webb does an excellent job in finding charming comedy in real life situations to illustrate Tom’s struggle to accept reality. He also uses influences from other films in a playful way to tell the story such as a little black and white sequence and an unexpected musical number. This film really is a breath of fresh air and I cannot discuss it in too much detail without spoiling it but what I must say is that Webb manages to combine pleasure and sorrow flawlessly throughout the film including in a fantastic sequence when the screen is divided to compare Tom’s expectations and reality.

This is a rare romantic comedy where you can’t ever be sure about how it will end. Literally anything could happen and this is simply the story of Tom trying to come to terms with that. The characters are loveable, the themes are relatable and the soundtrack is perfect. In the opening sequence we are warned that this is not your typical love story and believe me when I say, it really wasn’t lying.

Recommend to: Anybody (Teens+)

                           

Gangster Squad (2013)

Gangster Squad, 2013. Film. Directed by  Ruben FLEISCHER.
USA: Warner Bros.

This action/crime drama tells a story set in 1949 Los Angeles as a determined crew of officers attempt to take down the merciless gangster Mickey Cohen who has been running the city. Inspired by real events, this film is packed with exciting locations, vintage cars and pays clear attention to the period details in the classic costumes and design of the sets. Ruben Fleischer’s film clearly has the potential to be a successful modern take on the gangster classic however I believe it was merely mediocre.


The entire cast of Gangster Squad are known to be excellent actors and many of their characters throughout the film had the potential to be extremely lovable. Sergeant John O'Mara (Josh Brolin) is hardworking, honest war hero and the leader of the Gangster Squad. O’Mara’s pregnant wife Connie (Mireille Enos) is supportive and likes to spend time with her husband even if it includes lending a hand in finding him suitable officers to help with his duties. Sergeant Jerry Wooters (Ryan Gosling) is a laid back, ladies’ man and is initially cynical of O’Mara’s work. Grace Faraday (Emma Stone) is Cohen’s mysterious lover and Jerry’s love interest. Finally Mickey Cohen (Sean Penn) is a brutal criminal with a thirst power and will not stop at anything to expand his empire. In general, the relationships between the characters is where I find the story becomes most interesting however the constant (and sometimes unnecessary) action sequences reduce their screen time making the connections weak and evaporating any signs of commitment or chemistry. Whilst all of the actors have their moment to shine, I truly believe the all-star cast are underused and that this plays a key part in the films downfall.

In terms of the plot, Gangster Squad is a little unorganised and the characters often jump from careful planning to fighting, with very little warning. Although the film looks the part, the story is hidden behind the many action sequences that have been heartlessly thrown into the plot meaning the film’s success relies almost lazily on the constant blaze of tommy guns, jump cut editing and overused slow motion shots. However, the whole film isn’t a complete let-down. There are well thought out sequences throughout the film such as when the squad are secretly wire-tapping Cohen’s house and the technically effective car chase. The powerful opening with Brolin’s voice over is reflected at the end giving the illusion of a stable narrative and leaving you feeling joyfully satisfied even though you might not have necessarily understood the majority of the last 108 minutes.

As I have recently found a love for Coppola’s The Godfather I may well be sceptical of this fast-paced drama however I do believe that Gangster Squad is a very Hollywood take on film noir and clearly suffers from an obvious identity crisis as it jumps from serious fight scenes to unexpected gags. The Zombieland director is visibly out of his element as the comedy specialist takes on the challenge of a semi dramatic narrative and what I sincerely hoped would be a new favourite of mine has been enjoyable but perhaps too inept for an encore. 




Recommend to: Anyone who is a fan of a member of the cast

                           Anyone with a bit of spare time