Life of Pi

Director: Ang Lee

Starring: Suraj Sharma, Irfan Khan, Ayush Tandon, Adil Hussain, Tabu, Rafe Spall, Gérard Depardieu

Distributed By: 20th Century Fox

Release Date: November/December 2012

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This is quite simply one of the most moving and beautiful stories I have ever read and it is lovingly translated onto the big screen with the utmost respect of the source material.
Ang Lee infuses Yann Martel's fascinating and intriguing story with absolute care and attention to detail.
The whole thing looks gorgeous, even the opening scenes in the Zoo are exquisite!
Irfan Khan is brilliant as the adult Pi and I really like that we get to see him retelling his amazing story to Rafe Spall's writer and their scenes together are subtle yet meaningful.
The first section of the story is set in the vibrant and bustling Indian town of Pondicherry and you really get a sense of Pi's life as he deals with an unfortunate version of his name at school and his quest to find his purpose in life.
Ayush Tandon's portrayal of Pi is a joy to watch as he displays the makings of a smart and confident boy. I also really like Adil Hussain and Tabu as Pi's parents.
The religious themes in the book are full of warmth and this too is translated really well, as Pi ponders the meaning of spirituality.
The first proper scene with Richard Parker is just what I was waiting for; a wonderful and powerful scene that is quickly dealt with, but lingers in the mind.
As Pi's parents decide to move to pastures new, I felt a pang of emotion for what Pi is leaving behind and this is one of the achievements of the film; every scene is filled with emotion, every character is clearly defined and grabs hold of your own emotions.
I saw this in 3D and it is truly mesmerising! The sea comes to life as storms rage and the Tsimtsum sinks and Pi's life is forever changed.
Each scene on the Pacific is truly breathtaking and as Pi gets accustomed to living on a lifeboat many of his scenes are quite heartbreaking!
Four dangerous animals on a lifeboat is an amazing concept and the book goes into quite horrific and accurate detail of just how they define the social hierarchy and I'm quite glad that these scenes are swift and mostly gore-free so as not to spoil the magical tone of this beautiful visual experience.
Suraj Sharma is absolutely amazing as the sixteen year old Pi, who is faced with sharing a lifeboat with a Bengal Tiger and this is the true heart of the film.
Whether you're an animal lover or not, Richard Parker comes to life majestically and is so well done that I totally forgot that this is CGI work! Richard Parker simply becomes real and his and Pi's relationship and dependence on each other is a beautiful and inspiring thing to watch. So many scenes moved me to tears and I particularly love that this is exactly how Irfan Khan reacts as Pi remembers how he and Richard Parker part ways.
The second story is a scene of much contention in the book, but I'm glad they used it here; it makes the whole thing more intriguing.
For me, when watching this, I am on that boat with Pi and Richard Parker and Ang Lee, along with his cast and crew do it justice.
It's so satisfying when a book you love becomes a visual experience that fills your heart.
Mychael Danna's score is also hauntingly beautiful!
Life of Pi is a truly amazing and uplifting story in all sorts of ways; watch it and experience the wonder!!
~~Nikki~~

Trailers, Teasers & Talent...

I'm currently addicted to the following movie related goodness...

Ewan McGregor and Naomi Watts look set to stir powerful emotions in The Impossible...

Anthony Hopkins is ready to thrill in Hitchcock with Helen Mirren and Scarlett Johansson...

April 2013 is bringing dark days for Tony Stark in Iron Man 3...

And Star Trek Into Darkness is definitely teasing me...

I also can't wait to fall into the world of Oz: The Great and Powerful...

Moments in between movies...
~~Nikki~~

Time Is Relative...

“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.”

- Gandalf - The Fellowship of the Ring: The Lord of the Rings

I don’t generally mind how critics review movies, this is after all, a country that has free speech but some things really baffle me!!

 

 

I have heard many people say over the years that too many characters and scenes were left out of The Lord of the Rings Trilogy despite its tremendous running time, even with the knowledge that Peter Jackson still had to edit and cut his final versions because cinema goers would not sit through more than 3 hours!
There's also the so-called multiple endings argument; despite the fact that the movie exactly follows how The Return of the King ends in the book and in my opinion these characters definitely deserve a fond farewell.

As everyone is now aware The Hobbit has become 3 films and is truly faithful to the book and is probably how Tolkien himself would have envisioned this movie adaptation and yet people are still not satisfied...

I truly believe if you love movies and view them in the way the directors, writers and actors intended them to be filmed why constantly go on and on about the running length?
Is there really something else you’d rather be doing with your time?

 

For me cinema is an escape from our often discouraging world where we get to immerse ourselves in the fantastical and magical world of entertainment and directors like Peter Jackson are pushing the boundaries of our cinematic experience.

Life is too short to be cynical and constantly underwhelmed and I for one intend to enjoy every cinematic moment the world has to offer me.

There will be, of course, some movies that I might not enjoy as much as others and everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but in this country it's almost as if it's more appropriate for people to be negative, like it isn’t a big deal for a big shot director to spend months doing something he/she really cares about only to have it ripped apart by every critic because it’s 'their job' to be cynical?!

My opinions count for very little in the grand scheme of things but if I ever had the opportunity to let Peter Jackson know what his movies mean to me, I would tell him how his versions of Tolkien's wonderful stories has changed me and has given me such hope and enjoyment and that every minute he spent in the world of Middle Earth is a moment that I cherish!

We are living in one of the best times for cinematic achievement, lets enjoy these moments and be thankful for the people that have the courage and vision to give us movies that change our world!
~~Nikki~~

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Director: Peter Jackson

Starring: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Cate Blanchette, Hugo Weaving, Christopher Lee, Sylvester McCoy, Ian Holm, Elijah Wood, Andy Serkis, Lee Pace, Richard Armitage, Graham McTavish, Ken Stott, Aidan Turner, Dean O'Gorman, Mark Hadlow, Jed Brophy, Adam Brown, John Callen, Peter Hambleton,William Kircher, James Nesbitt, Stephen Hunter, Barry Humphries, Manu Bennett

Distributed By: Warner Bros. Pictures

Release Date: December 2012

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It's hard to believe that 11 years have passed since The Lord of the Rings first graced our screens and one of the things I love most about this film is that it's a seamless transition back into the world of Middle Earth.
Peter Jackson shows us once again that his vision from page to screen is crafted with absolute love and care and I love that he links up to The Fellowship of the Ring by revisiting Ian Holm's Bilbo and Elijah Wood's Frodo and both actors are a joy to watch.
Ian McKellen simply is Gandalf and it feels like watching an old friend on the screen as he brings kind authority to this wonderful character.
Martin Freeman is the perfect choice for Bilbo and does a great job conveying a range of emotions as he suddenly deals with a noisy and hungry group of Dwarves in his home and considering there are so many characters in one place these scenes are very well shot and well performed by all.
The group of Dwarves are a mixture of wonderful and colourful characters and I particularly like James Nesbitt as Bofur, Ken Stott as Balin, Aidan Turner as Kili and Dean O'Gorman as Fili, whilst Richard Armitage brings a brilliant moody and serious tone to Thorin.
Lee Pace looks wonderful as the Elvenking Thranduil and I am looking forward to much more with him and the Elves of Mirkwood.
I am so very happy that the character Radagast is given an extended role and Sylvester McCoy perfectly captures his eccentricities with a wonderful performance and all the scenes with him and his forest friends are enchanting.
Galadriel is also given extended scenes and beautiful Cate Blanchette makes her elegant and wise, bringing a charmingly subtle performance to light up the screen.
It's also lovely to see the return of Hugo Weaving as Elrond and Christopher Lee as Saruman. The Rivendell sets are particularly beautiful and I love Bilbo's wonder as he sees it for the first time.
Gollum is one of my favourite characters and Andy Serkis is paramount in making his scenes so memorable and enjoyable and as 'Riddles in the Dark' is my favourite chapter in the book I was eagerly waiting for this scene on film and it doesn't disappoint.
Martin Freeman and Andy Serkis are both wonderful as they try to outsmart each other and the use of motion capture for Gollum is once again breathtaking as his emotions flit from childlike innocence to that of a snarling creature in the blink of an eye and I especially love that we get to see Bilbo's pity for Gollum as mentioned by Gandalf way back in The Fellowship of the Ring.
The many Orcs throughout are impressive; especially Azog who is very menacing and quite creepy as he pursues Thorin and the brief glimpses of Smaug the Dragon are intriguing and I can't wait to see him in greater detail!!
Every scene is enjoyable and this movie brings back the feelings of wonder that I felt when seeing The Fellowship of the Ring for the first time!
The scenery, sets, and music are all integral pieces that help to make this movie look and feel beautifully epic and I am so looking forward to the next two instalments!
Wonderful and inspiring; I will happily lose myself in the world of Middle Earth and feel the magic and wonder of it all again and again!
~~Nikki~~

Tron Legacy

Director: Joseph Kosinski

Starring: Jeff Bridges, Garrett Hedlund, Olivia Wilde, Bruce Boxleitner, Michael Sheen, James Frain, Beau Garrett

Distributed By: Walt Disney Pictures

Release Date: December 2010

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Having never seen the original Tron movie, I didn't really know what to expect with this and I was really surprised by how much I like it.
This movie sees Sam Flynn as a wayward teenager rebelling against life, ignoring the company that his Father Kevin helped create due to the worldwide success of his arcade game Tron.
As Sam discovers what actually happened to his Father all those years ago he has to fight for both their lives and help Quorra escape the evil clutches of Clu and visually this is beautiful to watch.
Once Sam is in the game, everything takes on intense vibrant tones. The suits that all of the characters wear are strikingly beautiful and the actual battles are pure enjoyment.
I think it's really clever that they used a digital image for Clu as a younger version of Jeff Bridges and I like that you get to see how he was created.
Garrett Hedlund is brilliant as Sam who is literally thrown into this world and barely has time to take a breath and I really like Jeff Bridges  as Kevin Flynn and I love that he's trying to remove himself by becoming Zen-like. His home is also visually stunning with the antique furniture that counteracts the pure futuristic look of the world he inhabits.
Olivia Wilde's Quorra is my favourite character and she brings an effortless charm to her scenes as she helps Sam understand what her world is like.
Michael Sheen also gives a larger than life performance as Zues that is guaranteed to be remembered and the musical score performed by Daft Punk is beautifully rousing and matches the visuals.
Creative, stylish and clever, I'm definitely up for more of this!
~~Nikki~~

The Amazing Spider-Man

Director: Marc Webb

Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Denis Leary, Sally Field, Martin Sheen, Campbell Scott, Irrfan Khan

Distributed By: Columbia Pictures

Release Date: June/July 2012

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This new take on the life of Peter Parker and his alter-ego Spider-Man sees Andrew Garfield play the shy, intelligent teenager who gets bitten.
I'm a big fan of the original movies and Tobey Maguire's performance but this is also very enjoyable and has a more dramatic tone and it's nice to get some back story on what happened to Peter's parents and I really like Sally Field and Martin Sheen as his Aunt and Uncle.
I did miss the amount of humour that I had come to expect with these movies, but there are some really funny scenes notably when Peter displays some spider-like qualities on the train and as long-time cameo star Stan Lee is oblivious to the battle going on behind him in the library!!
Andrew Garfield is very good as he deals with being the favourite target of school bully Flash Thompson and his first few scenes with Emma Stone's Gwen Stacey are brilliantly awkward as he tries to get a date.
Emma Stone gives a lovely performance as Gwen and I like that she finds out about Peter's secret identity and is totally cool with it almost instantly.
Denis Leary is also great as Gwen's Father and their family dinner is a particularly enjoyable scene and he really shows his courage in the final battle.
Rhys Ifans brings likable and sympathetic qualities to Curt Connors and I can't help feeling sorry for him as he becomes a victim of his own scientific experiments.
There are plenty of great action scenes and it's quite touching when the construction workers decide to lend Spider-Man a helping hand.
I also love the final scene between Peter and Gwen and the teaser that hints at more to come.
Spider-Man is back!
~~Nikki~~

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2

Director: Bill Condon

Starring: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Peter Facinelli, Elizabeth Reaser, Ashley Green, Jackson Rathbone, Kellan Lutz, Nikki Reed, Billy Burke, Mackenzie Foy, Michael Sheen, Dakota Fanning, Cameron Bright, Mía Maestro, Casey LaBow, Lee Pace, Judith Shekoni, Jamie Campbell Bower, Christopher Heyerdahl, Maggie Grace

Distributed By: Summit Entertainment

Release Date: November 2012

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The Twilight Saga comes to a fitting close as Bella finally becomes the Vampire that she's longed to be and it's filled with some really cool moments as Bella proves she's now a force to be reckoned with.
There are many humorous moments throughout; particularly between Kristen Stewart's Bella and Taylor Lautner's Jacob who have a very different relationship now and it's nice to see the mutual respect that is growing between Jacob and Robert Pattinson's Edward.
The cast list for this instalment is impressive and almost makes me miss the intimate familiarity of Bella, Edward, Jacob and the rest of the Cullen's but with so many new Vampires on the scene, this movie does well at giving time to each group as they decide which side they are going to be on and I particularly like Casey LaBow as Kate, Lee Pace as Garrett & Judith Shekoni as Zafrina.
I love the fact that Renesmee grows so quickly and young actress Mackenzie Foy portrays her really well and I really like Kristen Stewart's scenes with her.
Billy Burke gives a lovely performance as Charlie, although I would've liked him to have more screen time and the scene as Jacob reveals his true nature to Charlie has to be one of the Saga's funniest moments!
It's great seeing Michael Sheen's Aro back again as he delights in tormenting the Cullen's in his quest to control them and gives a memorable performance.
The battle is brilliantly filmed and has some shocking moments for long-time fans that keeps the suspense going right till the end and once again I love all the CGI scenes with the Wolves.
One of the most beautiful scenes is Bella sharing her memories with Edward which shows just how far these films have come.
The ending is slightly teasing, but for me this film wraps up a compelling journey about teenage love with a supernatural twist in a small sleepy town called Forks.
~~Nikki~~

Hollywoodland

Director: Allen Coulter

Starring: Adrien Brody, Ben Affleck, Diane Lane, Bob Hoskins, Robin Tunney, Molly Parker, Kathleen Robertson, Caroline Dhavernas

Distributed By: Focus Features/Buena Vista International & Miramax Films

Release Date: September 2006

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This is a really good thriller based upon the actual events surrounding actor George Reeves's path to fame as he becomes the first incarnation of Superman on the small screen and tries to shed light on his untimely, mysterious death just a few years later.
Ben Affleck is very good as George and gives him likable and charming qualities throughout that make it easy to see why he found fame, even though it's his death that is at the heart of this story.
The sequence as the studio film him flying is particularly enjoyable as is the scene with the boy scouts discovering their hero in the diner.
Adrien Brody is absolutely excellent as Louis, the small time detective trying to figure out what really happened and he gives a very powerful performance; his scenes with his young son are also very realistic.
With touches of C.S.I. circa 1950 the three scenarios of how George's death may have come about are compelling and each show the various people in his life to have their own agenda.
Diane Lane is a joy to watch as she brings charm and sophistication to Toni and her argument with George regarding Leonore is brilliant and shows that she's not quite as innocent and demure as she seems!
I also really like Bob Hoskins as Toni's husband Eddie and the scene with the two of them and their significant others sharing a meal is both strange and sweetly amusing!
Toni's relationship with Eddie is sensitively played out and you really get a sense of their somewhat reserved love and ultimate respect for each other, despite their marital indiscretions.
Robin Tunney makes Leonore tough and very witty and it's hard to feel any sympathy towards her as she briskly deals with everyone in her life including George.
The 1950's setting is quite beautiful and the tone and pace of the movie drifts along nicely, almost contradicting the sadness that surrounds George's intriguing and dramatic fate.
A lovely movie that ensures George Reeves will not be forgotten!
~~Nikki~~

Shame

Director: Steve McQueen

Starring: Michael Fassbender, Carey Mulligan, James Badge Dale, Nicole Beharie

Distributed By: Momentum Pictures/Fox Searchlight Pictures

Release Date: January 2012

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This is utterly heartbreaking and is one of the most compelling movies I've ever seen!
The characters who all seem to be damaged in some way have a soft vulnerability about them and often the most powerful scenes are those in which the actors simply exchange a glance.
The sadness that resides in both Michael Fassbender's Brandon and Carey Mulligan's Sissy is almost tangible and both actors give powerful performances and that doesn't even seem a big enough word to describe their scenes together!
Many of the scenes are filmed in real time and this gives an intense edge to the already raw subject matter.
Carey Mulligan brings a delicate quality to Sissy who is loud and laughing on the outside and quite empty on the inside and her rendition of New York, New York is beautifully moving.
Michael Fassbender brings such depth of emotion to Brandon as he tries to both hide and face up to his addiction and everyone's reaction towards it; he truly is an impressive actor who isn't afraid to bare all!
I also really like Nicole Beharie's performance as Marianne.
Intense, moving and very honest, this movie proudly displays a side of human nature that is usually hidden and makes you care so deeply for these characters and their troubles.
An incredible movie that will stay with me for a long time!
~~Nikki~~

The Nightmare Before Christmas

Director: Henry Selick

Starring: Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara, William Hickey, Glenn Shadix, Ken Page, Ed Ivory, Paul Reubens

Distributed By: Touchstone Pictures/Walt Disney Pictures

Release Date: October 1993

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A wonderful example of stop-motion animation, this is really beautiful to watch.
Jack Skellington is a truly brilliant character who decides to see what the other holiday towns are about and inadvertently causes calamity in Christmas Town.
Jack's lonely admirer Sally, sweetly voiced by Catherine O'Hara realises Jack's mistake and the two characters band together to save "Sandy Claws" before it's too late.
There are so many creepy characters to enjoy and both Halloween Town and Christmas Town have some enchanting visual moments on offer.
The soundtrack by the wonderful composer Danny Elfman is beautifully atmospheric and he also lovingly lends his voice to Jack's many musical numbers which is a bit of casting genius as he helps to ensure Jack steals the movie and will be forever remembered as it's almost impossible not to sing along!
Filled with Tim Burton's sense of style and unique imaginings, this is a truly inspired movie that brings Halloween and Christmas together for all to enjoy!
~~Nikki~~

Addams Family Values

Director: Barry Sonnenfeld

Starring: Raúl Juliá, Anjelica Houston, Christopher Lloyd, Joan Cusack, Christina Ricci, Carol Kane, Jimmy Workman, Carel Struycken, David Krumholtz, Peter MacNicol, Christine Baranski, Mercedes McNab

Distributed By: Paramount Pictures

Release Date: November 1993

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My favourite of the Addams Family movies, this is filled with dark Gothic humour and a wonderful cast.
Anjelica Houston dazzles as Morticia and continues to make her graceful and witty.
Raúl Juliá is absolute perfection and gives my favourite performance of Gomez on screen and it's such a shame that he died shortly after making this movie.
Christina Ricci excels as Wednesday and has many of the best lines and is great fun to watch during all the summer camp scenes. I also love the over the top sugariness of Christine Baranski and Peter MacNicol as the two camp leaders.
Christopher Lloyd makes Uncle Fester lovable and I particularly enjoy his scenes opposite Raúl Juliá's Gomez, but the star of this movie is the lovely Joan Cusack who brings charm and charisma to Debbie as she tries to find a place in Fester's heart and is wonderfully funny as she tries to bump him off in various ways.
Full of Gothic exuberance, this movie gives us the perfect version of the creepy and kooky Addams Family to date.
~~Nikki~~

Hocus Pocus

Director: Kenny Ortega

Starring: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, Omri Katz, Thora Birch, Vinessa Shaw, Sean Murray, Doug Jones

Distributed By: Walt Disney Pictures

Release Date: July 1993

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This is a fun movie that I remember from my childhood.
Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy all give good performances portraying three witch sisters who hold onto their looks by ensnaring the children of Salem.
Omri Katz and Vinessa Shaw give likable performances as Max and Allison the teenagers who accidentally bring the witches back to the present day and Thora Birch is very sweet as Max's young sister Dani.
I also really love the look of the Zombie Billy who is brilliantly performed by Doug Jones!
Disney always do well with this sort of movie and I am very fond of Binx who is really a boy trapped in the form of a cat and am still impressed with the good effects used to make it appear that it's cat talking!
A great Halloween film for kids that adults can enjoy too!
~~Nikki~~

Bram Stoker's Dracula

Director: Francis Ford Coppola

Starring: Gary Oldman, Anthony Hopkins, Winona Ryder, Keanu Reeves, Richard E. Grant, Sadie Frost, Cary Elwes, Billy Campbell, Tom Waits

Distributed By: Columbia Pictures

Release Date: November 1992

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The definitive version of the most famous Vampire of them all; this movie is intensely erotic and filled with mysterious longing as Gary Oldman's Dracula seeks out his desires.
Jonathon Harker is a likable character and Keanu Reeves tries his best to make him gallant and thoughtful during his ‘house arrest’ although I would imagine he had a fairly pleasant time filming the scenes as he is overwhelmed by Dracula’s three brides! Unfortunately his accent does make me laugh at times; which is something that he probably did not intend!
Winona Ryder is quite lovely as Mina and her scenes opposite Gary Oldman have great chemistry as she tries to remain a virtuous member of society. I also like the fact that she is the perfect example of purity as opposed to Lucy’s insatiable approach to the opposite sex and her pursuit of them! Sadie Frost gives a very vibrant and convincing portrayal of Lucy as she falls under the Count’s spell and gets to enjoy one of the most blood soaked scenes!
I absolutely love Cary Elwes performance as Arthur, his mannerisms and pronunciations alone are brilliant! Richard E. Grant is very enjoyable as Jack and Tom Waits is excellent as the disturbed Renfield.
The two stars of this are undoubtedly Gary Oldman who gives a strong performance as Dracula and goes through some incredible visual looks throughout the movie and Anthony Hopkins who gives a very faithful performance as the great Van Helsing, it’s just a shame that they don’t share more screen time.
The movie is beautifully filmed, has plenty of action and extreme Gothic sensuality but it doesn't quite match the urgency that’s captured in the book, particularly during the thrilling chase back to Transylvania which remains a classic and chilling read; however it's still one of the best adaptations on screen to date.
~~Nikki~~

Sleepy Hollow

Director: Tim Burton

Starring: Johnny Depp, Christina Ricci, Miranda Richardson, Michael Gambon, Christopher Walken

Distributed By: Paramount Pictures

Release Date: November 1999

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Tim Burton's chilling take on this tale is great fun!
Beautifully filmed and cleverly told, this story finds Johnny Depp's charming Ichabod as a noble and intelligent man trying to discover the identity of the headless horseman. Christina Ricci gives a lovely performance throughout as Katrina and I also really enjoyed watching Michael Gambon and Miranda Richardson who are both very charismatic as Katrina's parents!
The film's supporting cast all have moments to shine and appear to have great fun amid the chaos.
Christopher Walken looks brilliantly terrifying as the horseman in the fleeting glimpses that we see of him with his head and the CGI is very good, I particularly like the scenes as he emerges from the tree and as he finally reclaims what he's been seeking!
All the scenes on horseback are impressive and the whole look and feel of the movie is infused with a hefty dose of Gothic romance and mystery which continues to add to its appeal.
~~Nikki~~

The Wolfman

Director: Joe Johnston

Starring: Benicio Del Toro, Anthony Hopkins, Emily Blunt, Hugo Weaving, Geraldine Chaplin, Art Malik

Distributed By: Universal Pictures

Release Date: February 2010

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I really like this dark and atmospheric tale that brings the dreaded werewolf back onto the big screen.
Anthony Hopkins gives a very understated performance that almost whispers "deadbeat dad" as he roams around his unkempt estate, physically and emotionally keeping his distance from those that try to be close to him.
Emily Blunt is elegant and charming as Gwen and brings some much needed tender femininity into the film and Hugo Weaving brings cool intellect as he tries to unravel the mysterious identity of the Blackmoor attacker.
Benicio Del Toro is excellent as Lawrence as he deals with all sorts of emotions as he too becomes a victim of circumstance and the chemistry between Lawrence and Gwen is believable and honest.
The scenery is at times breathtaking and the effects throughout, particularly the werewolf transformations which can often be tricky and unrealistic are very well done.
Filled with eerie moments and fair amounts of gore, this is a nice addition to the werewolf genre and is perfect viewing material for a cold moonlit night!
~~Nikki~~

The Corpse Bride

Director: Tim Burton & Mike Johnson

Starring: Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Emily Watson, Tracey Ullman, Paul Whitehouse, Joanna Lumley, Albert Finney

Distributed By: Warner Bros. Pictures

Release Date: September 2005

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This is really quite sweet.
Both Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter bring sensitivity to the characters of Victor and Emily.
The story is enjoyable and the animation is darkly beautiful and inspiring.
Director Tim Burton is a master at this sort of movie and this is a lovely visual treat with rousing music by the talented Danny Elfman and a host of wonderful actors contributing to the voice cast.
Whilst the sense of the macabre is woven throughout this tale, it also gives off a magical quality that makes it ultimately charming!
~~Nikki~~

Trailers, Teasers and Talent

I'm currently addicted to the following movie related goodness...

The beautiful Marion Cotillard stars in Rust and Bone, a movie which looks absolutely mesmerising!

 

This latest adaptation of the beloved musical Les Misérables looks wonderful and has a truly inspired cast!

Whilst Cloud Atlas looks mysterious, thrilling and undeniably inspirational!

 

The Lone Ranger brings together a host of my favourite actors and looks to be one of the best action movies in 2013!

My favourite poster of the moment has to be for Looper and the movie itself looks extremly cool!

Moments in between movies...
~~Nikki~~

Unrelated

 

Director: Joanna Hogg

Starring: Kathryn Worth, Tom Hiddleston, Mary Roscoe, David Rintoul, Emma Hiddleston, Henry Lloyd-Hughes, Harry Kershaw, Michael Hadley

Distributed By: New Wave Films

Release Date: February 2008

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One of the most realistic movies I’ve ever seen, this is at times uncomfortable and even cringeworthy viewing, but it’s also the sort of movie that you can’t tear yourself away from.
Joanna Hogg's direction is so brilliantly authentic it feels as though you’re actually on holiday with these characters viewing their day to day activities and problems from just a few feet back. I found that despite their flaws I began to like them even though at times I felt embarrassed on their behalf, particularly regarding Anna as the movie is mainly seen through her eyes. I think most people would agree that a family and friends’ holiday is often an awkward occasion for all involved and this movie displays that with ease and I especially liked that a lot of the scenes were obnoxiously loud and the conversations were cut off as the characters dealt with each other.
Kathryn Worth gives an excellent performance as Anna and it really seems like she is just tagging along, not really being a part of either group. When she does find her place I felt happy for her and as she falls for Oakley she portrays the absolute perfect example of almost crushing vulnerability and a longing for something that would make her feel some self-worth. I’ll admit her character did start to grate on me towards the end, but I think this is due to her honest portrayal of a woman who is very unhappy and is finally facing up to what she has become and what she wants.
Tom Hiddleston gives a very enjoyable performance throughout as Oakley who has the carefree arrogance and charm of youth. His argument with his father played by David Rintoul is intensely uncomfortable and very convincing and I was surprised by his maturity regarding Anna’s betrayal. I always enjoy it when actors who are real family members also portray this on film and Emma Hiddleston gives a likable and understated performance as Badge.
I really enjoyed all the supporting roles and again loved that it was very realistic as they travelled through the City.
I am so glad that I’ve seen this movie, which is an honest and important piece of drama that can speak to us all about how we deal with our nearest and dearest and how we all show different sides of ourselves, but in the end have to live with our decisions.
~~Nikki~~

The Tempest

Director: Julie Taymor

Starring: Helen Mirren, Felicity Jones, Djimon Honsou, Ben Whishaw, Alfred Molina, Chris Cooper, David Strathairn, Alan Cumming, Russell Brand, Reeve Carney

Distributed By: Touchstone Pictures/Miramax Films

Release Date: December 2010

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Julie Taymor makes her adaptation of Shakespeare's magical play a visual wonder.
Filled with beautiful scenery and striking imagery the cast effortlessly bring Shakespeare's beautiful poetry to life.
I really like the changing of Prospero as a father to Prospera as a mother and Helen Mirren gives an excellently fierce portrayal as she seeks to right the wrongs imposed on her. Felicity Jones is very likable as Miranda and her scenes with Reeve Carney's gentle Ferdinand are warm and believable.
David Strathairn, Alan Cumming and Chris Cooper are all enjoyable as they discover the Island for themselves and Alfred Molina and Russell Brand are very funny as Stephano and Trinculo
Helen Mirren really does impress and Djimon Hounsou and Ben Whishaw are wonderful to watch as Caliban and Ariel.
Ben Whishaw's Ariel in particular has some impressive scenes and really looks amazing and I really enjoyed the relationship formed between him and Prospera which seems more heartfelt on screen whilst Djimon Hounsou's performance is very powerful as Caliban and he brings real emotion to his scenes.
I love to read Shakespeare but seeing his plays either on screen or in the theatre is the best way to embrace his work and this adaptation of The Tempest a fine example!
~~Nikki~~

Real Steel

Director: Shawn Levy

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Dakota Goyo, Evangeline Lilly, Anthony Mackie, Kevin Durand

Distrinbuted By: DreamWorks Studios/Touchstone Pictures

Release Date: October 2011

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This is great fun! Hugh Jackman brings charm to Charlie who spends his time floating from one bad deal to the next and he has great chemistry with Evangeline Lilly who is really likable as Bailey.
Dakota Goyo is excellent as Max portraying him with confidence, sensitivity and the enthusiasm of youth whilst Kevin Durand makes Ricky perfectly annoying as he tries to get Charlie to pay for past insults.
The stars of this however are the robots themselves and they are brilliant to watch as they fight it out for supremacy and I particularly like Atom shadowing both Charlie and Max’s movements! All the fight scenes are as impressive as the Robots themselves and the CGI and choreography is excellent!
Dramatic, sensitive and ultimately heartwarming, this packs a punch that leaves the right kind of mark!
~~Nikki~~

88 Minutes

Director: Jon Avnet

Starring: Al Pacino, Alicia Witt, Leelee Sobieski, Deborah Kara Unger, Amy Brenneman, Neal McDonough, Benjamin McKenzei

Distributed By: TriStar Pictures/Warner Bros.

Release Date: April 2008

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This has a lot to do as the clock counts down.
Al Pacino is always worth watching and I really like him as Jack, although he's definitely not as animated as I'm used to seeing him and here he plays things quite softly as he tries to figure out who has him on their hit list. Helping him out is Alicia Witt who is likable as Kim and Leelee Sobieski is very good as Lauren.
The movie has some interesting twists to keep up the guess work and the ending surprised me as the culprit is revealed.
Not the best Al Pacino movie I've ever seen but it's an enjoyable thriller nonetheless.
~~Nikki~~

Cleopatra

Director: Joseph L. Mankiewicz

Starring: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Rex Harrison, Roddy McDowall, Martin Landau, Hume Cronyn, George Cole

Distributed By: 20th Century Fox

Release Date: June 1963

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This is a sumptuous feast for the eyes, made all the more remarkable by the challenges it faced whilst being made.
The sets are truly stunning as is most of Elizabeth Taylor's wardrobe and although it is a very long film the story is gripping and well told.
Rex Harrison makes Caesar intelligent, witty and sensitive when the situation calls for it and I enjoyed the relationship he forms with Cleopatra and his troops.
Elizabeth Taylor brings style, grace and a sometimes scathingly funny wit to every situation that Cleopatra encounters and she fully embraces the fact that she's an important, intelligent and powerful leader who needs to be heard.
Richard Burton's Mark Antony has the most diverse journey and it's interesting to see him go from being a confident soldier to a love stricken coward that has to face his countries and his own self-loathing!
The chemistry between Taylor and Burton is of course magical and it's easy to see exactly why they fell for each other off screen and I wonder about the parallels between some of their characters intimate scenes and their real life relationship which was said to be just as turbulent!
Full of drama, passion and well placed humour this is an amazing and beautiful movie that deserves to be held in high regard!
~~Nikki~~

Avengers Assemble

Director: Joss Whedon

Starring: Robert Downey Jr, Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgård, Clark Gregg, Cobie Smulders

Distributed By: Walt Disney Pictures

Release Date: April 2012

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One of the finest examples of bringing the perfect team together, this has smashed its way through all of my favourite movies to become the pinnacle of Superhero prowess!
Samuel L. Jackson is great as Nick Fury and it's so good to finally see plenty of him after all his cameos!
Scarlett Johansson is very impressive as Natasha and I really, really like Mark Ruffalo's performance as Bruce Banner and he is solely responsible for changing my feelings regarding the Hulk.
Chris Evans does excellent work getting Cap up to speed and Robert Downey Jr. ups his game as Stark and lives up to the word hero and has many of the best lines.
Chris Hemsworth absolutely nails his performance as Thor and I could happily watch him and Tom Hiddleston's Loki talk to each other forever! It really is like Shakespeare in the park and it adds such weight to the movie and this along with Cap's old fashioned inherent goodness means there is just so much to enjoy!!
There are lovely supporting performances from Clark Gregg's Agent Phil Coulson and Cobie Smulders as Agent Hill and Jeremy Renner also does well as Clint and is very cool to watch as the action heats up towards the end.
As much as I love all of the Avengers, Loki completely steals it! Tom Hiddleston gives such a dramatically malicious performance that I think he tops every bad guy before him and Loki vs the Hulk is something I will never forget!
This has bucketloads of humour and incredible action and considering that this is just the beginning, I cannot wait to see where Joss Whedon takes this!!
Funny, menacing and truly heroic, this demands repeat viewings and a lot of respect!
~~Nikki~~

Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance

Director: Neveldine Taylor

Starring: Nicolas Cage, Ciarán Hinds, Violante Placido, Johnny Whitworth, Christopher Lambert, Idris Elba

Distributed By: Columbia Pictures

Release Date: February 2012

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This sequel takes on a more serious tone and I missed the humour and the over the top craziness of the first movie, but Nicolas Cage is still very likable in this role portraying a man caught between two worlds.
Ciarán Hinds does well as the Devil's human form this time round and I really like Idris Elba as Moreau.
Violante Placido is very good as Nadya and Fergus Riordan gives a good performance as Danny.
Johnny Whitworth also looks like he has great fun as Carrigan especially as he becomes an agent of the Devil.
This has some good action sequences and the effects are fun, but in my opinion the first movie is more enjoyable.
~~Nikki~~

Captain America

Director: Joe Johnston

Starring: Chris Evans, Tommy Lee Jones, Hugo Weaving, Hayley Atwell, Dominic Cooper, Sebastian Stan, Toby Jones, Neal McDonough, Derek Luke, Stanley Tucci

Distributed By: Paramount Pictures

Release Date: July 2011

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Beautifully capturing the spirit of the 1940’s, I love the optimistic tone of this movie.
Chris Evans brings humility and sincerity to Steve Rogers and the effects used before he is transformed are quite amazing!
He really looks the part as Captain America and once he's done with the marketing part of war he proves he can beat the bad guys at their own game.
Hugo Weaving really plays up his villainous role and looks quite unnerving as Red Skull!
Hayley Atwell is effortlessly charming as one of the few female officers holding her own in a man's battlefield and I really like Dominic Cooper as Howard Stark. Sebastian Stan, Stanley Tucci and Tommy Lee Jones also give excellent performances.
One of my favourite things about all of these pre-Avengers films is the small visual or spoken moments that connect each movie and I like that this one ends with Samuel L. Jackson's Nick Fury propositioning Steve for his next mission.
A very enjoyable movie; Captain America proves that it sucks to be a bully...
~~Nikki~~