Interstellar - Film Review

Interstellar

Director: Christopher Nolan Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain  Genre: Sci-Fi

"Love is the one thing that transcends time and space"

This month sees the return of the big-budget, star-studded, epic action whore director Christopher Nolan (also known for the Batman films and Inception) with his new Sci-Fi Interstellar. With a cast that includes Matthew McConaughey fresh from receiving his Best Actor Oscar earlier this year and entering into an era of McConaissance, the ever reliable Anne Hathaway and the down right brilliant Jessica Chastain I had high hopes going into the movie theater.

I had no prior knowledge on what the film was about, only what the trailer and an appearance by McConaughey and Hathaway on the Graham Norton Show appeared to let on. In all fairness I still don't really know what the film is about. Alas, let that not retract from the fact Interstellar is a highly enjoyable -a very long (you get your money's worth) - but highly enjoyable epic adventure that allows you to venture into the lives of space travelling outcasts. In between fantastical establishing shots of spacecrafts, galaxies and 'new' planets, there is the heart-rendering message of fatherhood weaved throughout the film. 

It's the future and humanity is faced with the threat of dying out unless another planet, habitual by humans is found. Former NASA pilot Joseph Cooper (McConaughey) is recruited by Professor John Brand (Michael Caine - no surprise there) to join his daughter Amelia (Hathaway) and 2 others to pilot the spacecraft Endurance to find such a place. Although this may to some sound like a rather unoriginal and almost predictable plot - it's not. In typical Nolan-style, intelligence and complexity is applied to both character and story, intertwining the incomprehensible (for me) physics and variety of other sciences with the constant reminder of earth's peril and all the moral conflicts it brings with it. 

Hathaway and McConaughey look concerned as they watch
 fellow astronaut open a pot noodle during zero-gravity

The additional side-plot of Cooper's uneasy relationship with his daughter Murph (Chastain) adds the sentimental, instantly relatable themes of family and more prominently loyalty that often creeps into Nolan films.  Matt Damon and John Lithgow have smaller, yet just as memorable roles in the film. All the characters are fully rounded and are there to serve a specific purpose.

With an unexpected, well thought-out plot twist and sophisticated score by the legendary Hans Zimmer (The Lion King, Gladiator, Inception) this is the sort of film (as with all Christopher Nolan films) that makes you feel smarter by just simply watching it. 

There is no doubt in my mind that Interstellar will fit quite comfortably on the long list of 'Nolan Classics'.   

An Underrated Study: Viggo Mortensen

Viggo Mortensen - Case Study

This Danish-American actor is another sly chameleon who somehow goes unnoticed by film goers as he is able to change practically his entire appearance through just the slightest alterations. You would think that with an unusual name like Viggo Mortensen he would get a bit more attention. However I believe it is his intensely private character and even his mysterious, soft-spoken persona that may be some of the factors as to why this incredible actor often passes unaccredited. 

Most people will know Viggo for his portrayal of the elf-loving, orc-killing heir of Gondor Aragorn in the Lord of The Rings Trilogy - a performance that despite the big-budget and scale of the films (as with many of the characters in the trilogy) is notable for it's compassion and truth. Equipped with a long dark wig and an English accent it is no wonder his most notable role is not what he is recognized for. 

For a point of reference, let's compare this with Mortensen's portrayal of Sigmund Freud in David Cronenberg's 2011 film A Dangerous Method.

At first you may be thinking "where is he?". But trust me, the grey haired cigar-smoking gentleman sitting down (opposite Michael Fassbender's equally excellent Carl Jung) is in fact Viggo Mortensen. This time a prosthetic nose and European accent concealing his identity. 

Aside from the obvious versatility in terms of genre, intensity and of course physicality:

Mortensen has a knack of playing very complicated, layered characters.  Pulling from the pool of depth and talent that he possesses which are vital elements needed to portray some of the people he has. 

A Perfect Murder see's Mortensen as David Shaw a painter who has an affair with the wife of a wealthy Wall Street hedge fund manager. David Cronenberg's A History of Violence (a film that has one of the greatest character arc's I've ever seen in a movie and Viggo SHOULD HAVE WON AN OSCAR!!) sees Mortensen as Tom Stall, a gentle family man accused of being a gangster. Both characters have some similarities but are played in such different ways highlighting his incredible versatility. (note: I highly recommend both of these films.. deffo both in my top 20.)

It would be remiss of me to not mention his role as Nikolai Luzhin in Eastern Promises (Cronenberg.. again) for which he was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Aside from being an incredible actor, Viggo is also a poet, musician, artist and photographer. He is also fluent in English, Spanish, Danish, Swedish and conversational is French and Italian which makes him undoubtedly ... a very talented man. 

Viggo is currently starring The Two Faces in January (out NOW) and will appear in upcoming films Jauja and Far From Men.

10 Greatest Actors and Actresses

5 Actors & 5 Actresses

Here is an accumulative list of the best actors and actresses the industry has to offer.. in my opinion. (Note: additional list of 3 of my favorite performances of them )

Actors:

Gary Oldman

(Films: Sid & Nancy/ Bram Stoker's Dracula/ Leon: The Professional)

Viggo Mortensen

(Films: The Lord of the Rings/ A History of Violence/ A Dangerous Method)

Tom Hardy

(Films: Bronson/ Stuart: A Life Backwards/ The Dark Knight Rises)

Anthony Hopkins

(Films: The Silence of the Lambs/ Bram Stoker's Dracula/ 360)

Michael Fassbender

(Films: Hunger/ X Men: First Class/ 12 Years A Slave)

Actresses:

Cate Blanchett

(Films: Elizabeth: The Golden Age/ I'm Not There/ Blue Jasmine)

Kate Winslet

(Films: Titanic/ Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind/ Divergent)

Nicole Kidman

(Films: Cold Mountain/ Stepford Wives/ Rabbit Hole)

Meryl Streep

(Films: Sophie's Choice/ The Devil Wears Prada/ The Iron Lady)

Jessica Chastain

(Films: The Help/ Lawless/ Zero Dark Thirty)

An Underrated Study: Gary Oldman

Gary Oldman - Case Study

This post marks the beginning of the 'An Underrated Study' series that will explore the craftsmanship and filmography of several actors that I consider to be severely underrated among their peers. 

I first became aware of Gary Oldman's underrated-ness as I was expressing my admiration of his work to my parents. "You know Gary Oldman, right?" was my rhetorical question. "No" was both of their answers. I couldn't believe it. Possibly one of the greatest actors that has graced the screens and they "have never heard of him". My reaction inspired me to focus my A2 Film Studies Case Study on his work and how it has been overlooked. When I first started this blog, I thought back to this case study and it got me thinking of other actors that despite their blatant talent seem to go unnoticed. 

Gary Oldman. It may be a name that you have heard or seen somewhere but you just cant put a face to it. Well, this may be down to his undeniable chameleon abilities that have shaped him into one of the most versatile actors of all time. (yes, it sounds like a bit of an exaggeration but trust me it's not.) So, lets begin this investigation by analyzing just two of the roles that he has played across his four-decade long career. 

Firstly, Drexl Spivy in True Romance. A role that any male actor would die for, Oldman playing a Rastafarian-esque pimp in the Tarantino written film. There is a definite feeling of ambiguity surrounding Drexl who never fails to make the audience (and other characters) feel threatened and uneasy around him. 

In  contrast, we have Sirius Black. The Godfather of Harry Potter most notable for his part in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Black actually is the prisoner of Azkaban). He has strong paternal qualities and appears to be a very honest, approachable person.

In addition to the obvious versatility, Oldman also has this amazing quality where he can appear in highly successful big-budget films (he also plays James Gordon in Christopher Nolan's Batman films) and yet still remain relatively unknown. His inconsistency and unpredictability contributing to his physical ability to change his appearance with every role.

There has also been a massive surge of young actors (younger than Gary anyway) who have expressed their admiration and idolization of Oldman time and time again:

Tom Hardy "He is my absolute complete and utter hero"
Jennifer Lawrence "Gary Oldman I've always been blown away by because he's such a good actor and literally cant get famous because he is unrecognizable"
Daniel Radcliffe "I regard him as the best England has to offer"
Brad Pitt "Gary Oldman is the best"
Jim Carey "He's my rock star as far as actors go"
Benedict Cumberbatch "It's an inspiration to go up against an actor of Gary Oldman's quality"
Michael Fassbender "Gary Oldman has been a hero of mine since I was 14-15"
George Clooney "Gary keep on acting cause you f**** it up for the rest of us"
..... the list goes on

Despite the obvious appraisal by other actors, Oldman is continuously snubbed by critics and academies; hitting home how underrated he is. Lets have a look at a few of his performances and guess for which ones he was nominated for an Academy Award (Oscar):

Sid Vicious (Sid and Nancy)

Joe Orton (Prick Up Your Ears)

Count Dracula (Bram Stoker's Dracula)

Beethoven (Immortal Beloved)

Norman Stansfield (Leon: The Professional)

Answer: None

By stating this by no means insinuates winning an Oscar is the most important thing for an actor or that the fact he wasn't even nominated degrades his performances in anyway. Not at all. But if baffles me along with many others as to why his performances are continuously overlooked and yet people like Jennifer Lawrence (she's good ... but no Gary Oldman) who at 24 is already on her 3rd Oscar nomination.

So. To conclude. Gary Oldman is an incredible versatile actor with a humble upbringing and adored my many. Yet the media and film critics have failed to give him the recognition he deserves year after year. Thus I believe that the title for 'The Most Underrated Actor of his Generation' should be firmly handed to Mr. Gary Oldman.

Oldman recently starring in RoboCop and is currently in Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. Next year he will appear in upcoming film Child 44.

5 Films That Will Make You Laugh

5 Films That Will Make You Laugh

It has to be said, comedy is a very subjective genre. Most people can watch The Shawshank Redemption or One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and agree that they are pretty much the best films ever made. However, everyone has their own sense of humour and thus devising any kind of 'best comedy' list to fit all is near impossible. So, here is my list of the top 5 comedies and if your in the mood for a laugh, give them a try:

5. Hot Rod (Schaffer, 2008)

This off-beat comedy isn't for everyone but has provided me with some of the most memorable quotes - "cool beans" and "I like to party". The film follows the life of Rod Kimble (Andy Samberg) who aspires to follow his deceased fathers footsteps in becoming a successful stuntman.





4. Stepbrothers (McKay, 2008)

When spoilt, unemployed 40-somethings Brennan Huff and Dale Doback's parents decide to marry, the two are forced to live together as step brothers. Starring Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly.






3. Shaun of the Dead (Wright, 2004)

The first of the Wright-Pegg-Frost cornetto trilogy (followed by Hot Fuzz and The World's End). The antics (going to the Winchester) of Shaun (Simon Pegg) and Ed (Nick Frost) are disrupted by a zombie invasion. 

2. This is the End (Rogen/Goldberg, 2013)

A star line-up including Seth Rogen, James Franco, Jonah Hill, Jay Baruchel, Danny McBride and cameos by Michael Cera, Emma Watson and Rhianna this film sees the actors all play versions of themselves in the aftermath of a global apocalypse. I was surprised as to how funny this film was and the exaggeration of certain characteristics of Hill and Franco in particular were clever. 

1. Four Lions (Morris, 2010)

An intelligent and brave yet controversial satire about four homegrown terrorist jihadis set in Sheffield, England. A group of four male radicalized young British Muslims aspire to be suicide bombers, the London Marathon being their ultimate target.






Coming in at 6th and 7th but too good not to mention are the 21 Jump Street (2012) and 22 Jump Street (2014) films starring Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum about two police officers who are sent to work undercover at a High School then University.

The Inbetweeners 2 - Film Review

The Inbetweeners 2

Director: Damon Beesley        Staring: Simon Bird, James Buckley, Blake Harrison, Joe Thomas        Genre: Comedy

"Muff before mates is actually a crime in Australia"

With this sequel to The Inbetweeners: The Movie, a spin-off of the hugely successful E4 TV Series The Inbetweeners, comes the on-going tale of four teenage friends Will McKenzie, Simon Cooper, Jay Cartwright and Neil Sutherland and their attempts to convince the people around them - but more importantly themselves- that they are 'cool'.

Seemingly with a conscious decision to separate itself from the TV series this film is set abroad, and to separate it from it's predecessor, it is set in Australia. Fans of the middle-class suburban foursome (like myself) may spot the humorous coincidence that Jay (Buckley) who used an Australian fake ID in one of the episodes to purchase beer from a pub is the character that perpetuates the unexpected 'lads holiday' and reunion of the 'Pussay Patrol' Down Under.

One element I really liked was that the main characteristic of Jay, his plain lying, is exaggerated to the fullest during the exposition stage, visualizing his 'experience' in Australia through a long dramatic sequence; "I've banged all the famous Aussie Birds... A threesome with Kylie and Dani? I did that ten minutes after getting off the plane". For me, this demonstrates the tongue-in-cheek nature the creators wanted to portray relating to the big-budget of the film. The writers being aware that this movie format is something entirely different to the origins of the small E4 show. Utilizing the big-screen to not make the characters appear as "Hollywood icons" but on the contrary mock the opportunities a large-scale production can offer.

As can be expected the film is littered with sarcastic comments and clever puns. An obvious one being Neil's (Harrison) repetitive use of the word 'bants' - again highlighting that the characters despite their continuous attempts are not 'cool'. The 'Archbishop of Banterbury', 'Bant and Dec' and 'Banter of the Opera' being just some of the few 'banterous' puns the film has to offer. Along with Simon (Thomas) and Will's (Bird) infantile feud where they both need to 'grow up' and Will's usual sarcastic narration of prior events provide linear comedy. Along with new outbursts of humour arisen from clashes between the four protagonists in their new-found circumstances, there are also long-running jokes drawn out from the previous film and series. The three boy's infatuation with Will's mum being a prevalent one; highlighted during an awkward Skype conversation between Will and his mother and her incapability to use a laptop (when you see it, you will know what I mean).

Another component, and an obvious intention by the writers to hone down the importance of each of the four characters is their individual problems throughout the film - all of which somewhat distastefully provide screech-worthy comedy. Will with his interest in backpacker Katie and his need to 'fit in' with her and her 'spiritual' friends results in some of the most noteworthy humour in the form of Will's serenade by the campfire; Simon's many failed attempts to break up with his physco girlfriend which ultimately leads to an engagement; Jay's lip problems and denial for his on-going love for ex-girlfriend Jane (it should be pointed out that both Simon and Jay's love interests are the same girls from the first Inbetweeners movie) and Neil's stupidity (feeding a dolphin a hamburger and fried chicken) landing him in sticky situations (dead dolphin).

This movie despite the big-budget and foreign setting that inevitably provides a different feel to the one found at Rudge Park Comprehensive School, undoubtedly stays true to it's origins. Compact with jokes and physical comedy I wouldn't say it is too far off the state The Inbetweeners 2 is start-to-finish funny.

Alt J - NEW Singles Review

ALT J 3 New Singles

Released: Out Now     Genre: Alternative Rock     Available: iTunes, Spotify

Some indications of the much anticipated second album of English Alternative rock (now trio)  Alt-J were revealed earlier this month in the form of 3 new singles 'Hunger of the Pine', 'Left Hand Free' and 'Every Other Freckle'. Following the release of their highly successful debut album An Awesome Wave (released May 2012) the band has gone world wide. Reaching #1 in the UK Indie Album Chart, #9 in the Australian Albums Chart and #18 in the US Alternative Albums Chart - Alt-J were certified platinum and have sold over 40,000 copies.

Alt-J (L-R) Thom Green, Gus Unger-Hamilton, Joe Newman

Hunger of the Pine
This song appears to be a lot more commercial than their previous music despite having the familiar electronic feel and the echoey vocals of Newman. It starts off slow and builds to a beat (same percussion found in almost every Alt-J song) and introduces an entirely new element to their sound - a female voice. This voice unusually belongs to Miley Cyrus (the band integrating the lyrics "I'm the female rebel" from her song '4x4' in an almost remixed manner). The usual harmonies can be found within the song as well as a new collection of instruments.

Left Hand Free
On a very different note, Alt-J have managed to create a Jazzy, 1960's feel that still somehow manages to retain the original Alt-J-esque sound. This song has a very distinctive up-beat vibe in comparison to the generally depressive resonance their other songs formulate. The lyrics (although true to band's style) are unclear with what appears to be a minor distortion on Newman's voice. Additionally, subtle guitar riffs and a creative keyboard solo add an extra twist. I can envisage this song being played in an open top convertible - perhaps a deliberate intention as the title of the song itself is 'Left Hand Free'? All in all, it's a feel-good song (never thought I'd say that about Alt-J) and will leave you knee-tapping and finger-clicking.

Every Other Freckle
Their most recent single seems to be somewhat heavier than previous material with a more dense bass line. It is good to hear the return of absurd yet ingeniously creative lyrics with "I want to share your mouthful" and "turn you inside out and lick you like a crisp packet". The songs mournful sound seems reminiscent of Fleet Foxes however the off beat percussion and backing add lib's reassert the original Alt-J element; the band fully cementing their own distinctive style.

It would seem that Alt-J are definitely heading in a new direction but not losing sight of their own unique sound - a positive progression with no inkling of 'second album syndrome'. Thus, leaving us wanting This is All Your's (release date: 22 September 2014) to come sooner!

Top 5 Must-Watch Horrors

For those that know me... you probably wouldn't put me down as being a huge fan of horror films. In fact on the contrary, I rather detest them. Not so much the genre itself but more my reaction and how I personally deal with them... it's not brilliant.

Nevertheless, as an avid cinephile I watch a variety of films new, old, foreign, animated and within a variety of genres romance, comedy, action and of course horror. It hasn't escaped me that in recent years there have been some films within the thriller/horror genre that deserve recognition for merely being good films. Thus here we are, my top 5 must-see horrors:

1. The Conjuring (Wan, 2013)

A very good film. Period. Regardless of the genre this was an all round success. It has everything you could want: fully rounded characters (some portrayals of real people), a back story and antagonist that is well thought out, an easy-on-the-eye male lead in the form of Patrick Wilson and to finish it all off a full-on old-skool exorcism and  a terrifying clap game. The same director as Saw I and Insidious -Wan clearly knows what he is doing.

2. Dark Skies (Stewart, 2013)

I feel the success of this film relies on what you don't see as opposed to what you do. The mystery of the apparent antagonist in the film is what drives the fear. For any fans of sci-fi (or general films involving Aliens) this is perhaps a film that may introduce you into a whole different genre.

3. Insidious: Chapter 2 (Wan, 2013)

I personally prefer this film to it's predecessor as the focus on the father (note: return of the easy-on-the-eye Patrick Wilson) as opposed to the son as seen in the prequel provides an interesting twist. Also, I saw this before Insidious and found it relatively easy to follow, so if you haven't seen the first one... that's not an excuse.

4. Mama (Muschetti, 2013)

Jessica Chastain (as always) is exquisite as the lead. However, I was not particularly impressed with the ending as it gives too much away (believe me it is still disturbing). I feel that the main thing that constitutes the fear is the unknown. Hearing, knowing, half-understanding the being that is "Mama" but never actually seeing her (until the very end) is what makes your eyes twitch and your palms sweat.

5. Haunting in Connecticut  (Cornwell, 2009)

An old favourite (I say that with complete sarcasm). This film was one of the very first to disturb me to the point of sleepless nights. From the maggot infested walls to the weird, gross substance that grows out of your mouth (on poster) this film is beyond messed up. And apparently a true story.

A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To Heaven - Book Review

Corey Taylor - A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To Heaven

From Slipknot and Stone Sour front man Corey Taylor comes this Sunday Times Bestseller book for atheists (or religious people with a sense of humour).

Taylor has not just accomplished a vastly entertaining collection of ghost stories, but an intelligent blend of memoirs and the relationship between the supernatural and it's paradoxical sister - Faith. His second attempt at authorship (his first being the similarly successful Seven Deadly Sins) is a smart yet (borderline) respectful way of dissecting religion and it's many shortcomings in the dirty, humorous but relativity eloquent manner that is to be expected.

As aforementioned, this book is not for the light-hearted (by that I mean the religiously ignorant). Taylor referencing infamous biblical events in such a way: from "Noah and his weird cruise ship" to "Jesus and his magical fruit punch trick and walking across ponds". Also my personal favorites, he describes God as an "ancient, invisible stalker" and the "original paranormal activity" and his childhood Sunday-Church-going as "doing time in the holy holding pen"; demonstrating his terrifically sarcastic tone.

Throughout the book there are nice interjections of philosophizing, Taylor raising brave questions such as - "What is religion" and  "why atheists are the way we are". These points break up the vivid and humorous anecdotes and recollections of Taylor's paranormal experiences - most of which never fail to scare and adds an intelligent fluidity to the overall piece.

There are also attempts of justification using science to explain some things that are discussed. Going to show that this is not some doctrine (pardon the irony) that has an aim to brainwash and manipulate people into believing in the supernatural. But the beliefs and subjective opinions of one man.

If you have a vivid imagination (like myself) I would highly advise against reading this book at night. With most horror films you can just about get over what you've witnessed by repeating to yourself "it's just a film!" However, this is a true documentation of true events (whatever you believe)that happened to this man. Even myself - someone who has the same relationship with ghosts as they do with religion- a disbeliever, was partially turned by this book. It 100% got the mere notion and idea of a spiritual post-death being's existence etching into my mind.

I have to admit, I did get particularly paranoid about halfway through the book, as semi-strange occurrences began to happen as soon as I started reading it. Our washing machine broke (yeah.. maybe not that weird but still). The sound on my laptop would randomly decide not to work (not an earphone nor water damage problem in contrast to popular belief).

But all that aside one thing happened that really messed me up -I was sitting in the living room with the book propped up against the sofa and as I was reading mid sentence THE LIGHTS TURNED OFF.
Like, they just switched off not because the bulb had ran out, they just turned off...

WEIRD.

Control- Film Review

Control  (2007)
Rating: ★★★★

Director: Anton Corbijn    Starring: Sam Riley, Samantha Morton    Genre: Biographical, Drama 

"Could these sensations make me feel the pleasures of a normal man?"

For any real fans of Joy Division who haven't already heard of/seen this movie will undoubtedly be pleasantly surprised, as it respectively investigates the tragic life of front man Ian Curtis and incorporates all their best music. 

For any "fans" of Joy Division, I strongly suggest giving it a watch to: A) learn more about the iconic band and B) be introduced to more (than one) of their songs. Thus, amassing knowledge that surpasses only knowing 1/2 the lyrics to 'Love Will Tear Us Apart'. 

A brave performance by the lead Sam Riley as the legendary singer, with the uncanny resemblance and spot-on Curtis-esque stage presence, Riley is stand-out brilliant. 

Ian Curtis

Sam Riley

Directed by photographer-turned-director Anton Corbijn (who actually personally knows the remaining Joy Division members). Despite the entire film being shot in black and white, the colours of  Riley and Morton's performances and the solid script provide a more than an adequate substitute. 

As a Joy Division fan, one particular element I was happy made it into the film is Curtis' infamous dance (which due to his public suffering of epilepsy is now referred to as the 'epileptic dance'). Here is the real Ian Curtis vs. Sam Riley's depiction of the front man's iconic stage presence:
(Bare with, these are the shortest videos I could find...)

All in all, even if you are not familiar with or that particularly bothered about the life of Ian Curtis or even Joy Division, this film displays a variety of relatable themes. Including the pursuit of  dreams, the pressure that comes with responsibility and even the distracting nature of lust; Control is on the whole a film for many.

But particularly people with good music taste.

Top 10 Favourite Movies (Ultimate List)

This is my top 10 films:

10. Billy Elliot (Daldry, 2000) A working-class boy from North-East England balances his passion for ballet with the need to please his left-wing, traditional miner father.
                                       

9. Inglorious Basterds (Tarantino, 2009) A young Jewish-French woman and a group of Jewish-American soldiers during an alternate World War Two plan to kill Nazi Germany's political leadership.

8. Intermission (Crowley, 2003) An independent Irish film that follows the individual lives of people living in Dublin that become interlinked following a kidnap and robbery attempt.

7. Sunshine (Boyle, 2007) In an attempt to reignite the sun, spaceship Icarus II embarks on a dangerous mission to save mankind with a massive stellar bomb.

6. Control (Corbijn, 2007) Joy Division front man Ian Curtis biopic.

5. The Social Network (Fincher, 2010) Biographical film presenting the real story of Mark Zuckerberg, the creator or Facebook.

                                      

4. Gangs of New York (Scorsese, 2002) A historical epic drama dealing with the two principle issues in New York's history - Irish immigration and the Federal governments execution of the ongoing Civil war.

3. The Beach (Boyle, 2000) American college student discovers the mystery of 'the island' on a summer vacation in Thailand.

2. Fight Club (Fincher, 1999) A cult classic that follows the life of unnamed protagonist discontented with his white-collar job who forms a 'fight club' to fight recreationally.

1. Trainspotting (Boyle, 1996) Following the lives of Heroin addicts in an impoverished area of Edinburgh during the 90's.

August: Osage County - Film Review

August: Osage County

Director: John Wells  Starring: Meryl Steep, Julia Roberts, Ewan McGregor, Benedict Cumberbatch   Genre: Black Comedy, Drama

"Once all the talking is through, people just go back to their own nonsenses"

Misery Loves Family

This adaptation of the Award- winning play August: Osage County by Tracey Letts sees Meryl Streep in one of her finest roles as Violet Weston - a mentally unstable, drug-addicted matriarch suffering from mouth cancer and midst a failing marriage.

After the death of her husband Beverly Weston, family members arrive at Violet's house in support including: her three daughters (Barbara, Karen and Ivy), her sister Mattie Fae (& her husband and son), Barbara's husband and daughter and Karen's fiance. Ultimately chaos ensues and secrets are split in Violet's attempt to bring her dysfunctional family together. With Violet's fear of solitude it is not until the very end of the movie that you realize she is truly alone - the worst part being that she herself drove everyone away.

A powerful story about parenthood, marriage and the importance of upbringing amogst all the confrontation and emotional meltdowns, the  quote "this mad house is my home" seems appropriate.

Despite being an exhausting watch, the film is not all hard drama -Streep mastering the role of a subtle comedian during rushes of black comedy. A scene involving a grace before dinner, and one that lasts about twenty minutes acting as a short film in itself (arguably) provides the only notable humour. This crucial scene also climaxes into one of the greatest on screen cat-fights between Streep and Roberts (seen on the movie poster).

Julia Roberts "passionate but hard" foul-mouthed Barbara provides a strong yin to Streep's yang and the two carry the film marvelously. Benedict Cumberbatch is as charming as ever as the (not so bright) son of Mattie Fae, adding a rare sensitivity to the otherwise boisterous ensemble. He even performs a love song (yes- he sings as well!) to his love interest, the youngest of the Weston sisters- Ivy.  McGregor appeared to be somewhat unremarkable, but perhaps a conscious choice to enable his character to play off his on-screen wife (Roberts) bursts of aggressiveness.

There is a nice mix of cynicism: Ivy stating "we cant perpetuate these myths of family sisterhood anymore. We're just people, some of us accidentally connected by genetics - a random selection of cells" and optimism. The sweet (yet tragic) mini love story that develops between Ivy and 'Little' Charles (Cumberbatch) and the bubbly nature of Karen adding a light to the darkness of the other characters.

A film all about family conflicts and the trials and tribulations of relationships that are perhaps more relatable than first imagined. Wells is  not scared to show the ugly side of human nature, all actresses appearing barefaced, Roberts even having grey roots and Streep unabashedly displaying herself in the worst light; all executed perfectly through the dark mise-n-scene.

If it doesn't sound like your cup of tea - I believe August: Osage County is worth watching simply for Streep's performance that poses as an acting masterclass for all involved; disappearing into Violet Weston like the chameleon she is. As always she balances her outstanding talent with her co-stars, never stealing the limelight yet simultaneously leaving the audience unable to forget her. This movie feels like an important one that leaves you thinking and evaluating your own life - this particular film highlighting the importance of family value and communication.

Filled with plot twists and narrative shocks, the genius work of Letts (both the play and screen writer) acts as a prism through which we view familial relationships in all its disturbing glory.

The Fault in Our Stars - Film Review

The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Director: Josh Boone     Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort      Genre: Rom- Com, Drama

"I'm on a roller coaster that only goes up, my friend"

The current high-demand box office success is undoubtedly unique amongst other popular films about terminal illness. With echoes of 2009's My Sister's Keeper and 2012's Now is Good, this book adaptation shares the common denominator of cancer; but is filled with intelligence, romance and a degree of sarcastic humour simultaneously combined with compassion and most importantly - truth. 

Based on the New York Times bestseller 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green,  the film follows the love story of two patients: Hazel Grace Lancaster who suffers from "thyroid cancer [...] but with an impressive and long-settled satellite colony in [her] lungs" and Augustus Waters who is in remission from Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) having previously had his leg amputated. The two meet in a support group and immediately bond over their shared experience.

However, it is soon uncovered that these scientific labels are far from the main components of the the two well-rounded protagonists. You will find that their illness is in fact not the real villain - but time. Their short amount of time, the limits to their "little infinity" that you watch unfold provides the real sadness. The effortlessly touching story of friendship and love that ensues by no means uses  cancer as exploitation but focuses on the fleeting nature of life.

One consistent element of the film is it's ability to remain charming and funny even despite the constant reminder that cancer is an everyday obstacle. Hazel (Woodley) is an instantly likable character, a cynical sixteen-year-old who is determined not to 'sugar coat' her situation and demands the truth from those around her. In contrast, Augustus (Elgort) is a free spirit, whose last wish is to be greatly remembered by everyone.

It is their typical awkward teenage interactions that constitutes the humour and prompts the viewer to remember they are young adults dealing with a large-scale problem on top of the difficulties of adolescence -the driving scene being one distinctive for it's comedic elements. The addition of Augustus' friend -and fellow cancer patient- Isaac during sentimental scenes between Hazel and Augustus (both of which involve Isaac destroying/hitting something frustratingly in the background) are exemplary of the subtle and intelligent humour throughout the film.

This most definitely is a film of poetic metaphors, and one that allows itself to be quoted again and again. From the inspirational words in fictional Peter Van Houten's book An Imperial Affliction that "pain demands to be felt" to Hazel's own distinctive monologue and judgments: "Funerals are not for the dead, they are for the living". A memorable moment is Augustus' colorful and symbolic declaration of love during their date in Amsterdam, referencing the literary background of the film and the irreplaceable words of John Green. Even Augustus' use of cigarettes which is quite explicitly a 'metaphor' (he places a cigarette in his mouth but never lights one) "You put the killing thing right between your teeth, but you do not give it the power to do it's killing" indicates that this is not a film solely about cancer but the virtues of it's victims.

Even the most thick-skinned will be unfathomably touched by this honest, beautifully written script from an equally beautifully written book. A moving and heart-rendering love story above all else it will leave the audience thinking about how easy it is to take time for granted and all levels of your emotional Richter scale will undoubtedly be reached.