Connor Macgregor Reviews Thread

[honeykid]

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^^By far the best thing about the film^^

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Cars 2

The First Cars was good, but not fantastic like other Pixar films. So when watching the sequel, I had low expectations. But honestly, I was surprised.

After Mater gets his best friend, star race car Lightning McQueen, a spot in the very first World Grand Prix, he is given the job of pit crew chief. But while they are in China, Mater crosses paths with Holly Shiftwell, a spy searching for an American spy. Unknown to Mater, the American spy attached a tracking device on him while being attacked. Thinking the tow truck is the spy, Holly and another spy, Finn McMissile, take Mater around the world to find and stop an evil plot created by "lemons," old cars considered ugly.

Don't get me wrong, Cars 2 isn't one of Pixar's greatest films, but its one that improves on the original and does let you care about the characters more. For example, they do develop Lightning & Mater's friendship a lot more and the film is centered around Mater rather than Lightning. I also like the fact that it doesn't follow the stereotypes (To a most part) with the other countries and portrays them as normal countries like America rather than what America thinks the countries are like (Believe me they get it wrong with the UK so many times). I also predicted who the main villain was very quickly, so come the end it wasn't a big surprise, however it was very anti climatic which added to my disappointing. What they did get right however was the action sequences. They were great and made the film prevent from being boring. The races and the spy plot really worked and we saw Pixar try something new and exciting.

Overall, Cars 2 is good but not a masterpiece and strikes better than the original.

Rating - 73% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Muppets

Remember these guys. Well in 2011 they came back and now in 2012 they are bringing their comeback to The UK. But me, I got a sneak peak of the film before it got released nationwide. Here is my review.

When 3 muppet fans learn that Tex Richman wants to drill under the muppet theater for oil Gary, Mary and Walter set out to find the muppets who have been split up for years Kermit lives in his own mansion depressed in hollywood, Gonzo is a high class plumber at Gonzo's Royal Flush, Fozzie performs with a tribute band called The Moopets , Miss Piggy is the plus-size fashion editor at Vogue Paris, and Animal is at a celebrity anger managment rehab center in Santa Barbara.

Growing up, I didn't really watch a lot of Muppets, but I was aware of their huge following and realized how big they were around the world. So when seeing this film, I had some solid expectations going in. However what I got was a piece of movie magic that you rarely see in film anymore. From start to finish, this film understands its audience instantly and plays to them all in many different ways. New audiences is really an introduction to the muppets, and to old fans its to those jokes that made the Muppets well known the first time around. All of the hit characters are there and couldn't be better. New character Walter has a solid back story and really is crucial to The Muppets coming back together again.

The Music & Songs are superb. The opening "Life's A Happy Song" is the best song of the year for film. So joyful and up lifting that it gets you into the film's world with ease. They also use "We Built This City" by Starship perfectly and very original as well.

My one problem with the film is that it overuses fourth wall jokes which is quite distracting at times. I get a point where I am quite invested in the story, and then a fourth wall joke takes me out of focus.

Overall however, The Muppets is a real treat and a family film all round. A big recommendation.

Rating - 100% - A+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Artist

The film that everyone is talking about right now and while people may have different views on the film, it may just be the key to the revival of the format that launched cinema in the first place.

Outside a movie premiere, enthusiastic fan Peppy Miller literally bumps into the swashbuckling hero of the silent film, George Valentin. The star reacts graciously and Peppy plants a kiss on his cheek as they are surrounded by photographers. The headlines demand: "Who's That Girl?" and Peppy is inspired to audition for a dancing bit-part at the studio. However as Peppy slowly rises through the industry, the introduction of talking-pictures turns Valentin's world upside-down.

The Artist is one of those films that remind you just how good films really were back in the day. The film didn't need explosions, 3D and marketing to make money. What it needed was a story and an old format that got a good revival that had everyone talking and quite rightly too. The acting is very good, without the use of dialogue. People could never think a silent film would be a hit in today's medium, but this film is gearing towards best picture faster than a flaming bullet. The two lead actors in the film are great. Jean DuJardin & Benice Bejo completely fit into the film's world and perform in the moment. They embrace the silence and its brilliant acting. John Goodman & Uggie The Dog are also great additions to the film that give it that extra magical charm.

The film is shot and made just like an old silent film. Cinematography, Music, Costumes, camera, etc. Its a true nostalgia feeling for old time cinemagoers. As well as that, it introduces new audiences to how the medium was before, and it totally works. I highly recommend this film to everyone while its still out in cinemas.

Rating - 94% - A

[genesis_pig]

I think Jean Dujardin (hope I got the name right) is one of the finest actors right now.
Just saw both the OSS 117 films, not bad.. it's by the same guy who directed The Artist.

I hope to see more of this fine actor.

[MovieMad16]

I do too. Seeing as he has won an Oscar, some studio will have an interest in him..just hope its the right one.

[genesis_pig]

Cars is in my opinion, the worst Pixar film, I only went to see Cars 2 for 2 reasons-
1. Michael Caine as a spy.
2. It spoofs spy films.

& in spite of the above 2 reasons, I was still bored by it. I hope they wont make another sequel, I rather see Pixar work on something else..

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews... Super Size Me

This documentary has been seen and talked about around the world, and it has taken me too long to see it and longer to review it. So here is it for your reading pleasure.

Several legal suits have been brought against MacDonald's Restaurants that they are knowingly selling food that is unhealthy. Some of the court decisions have stated that the plaintiffs would have a claim if they could prove that eating the food every day for every meal is dangerous. As such, documentarian Morgan Spurlock conducts an unscientific experiment using himself as the guinea pig: eat only MacDonald's for thirty days, three meals a day. If he is asked by the clerk if he would like the meal super sized, he has to say yes. And by the end of the thirty days, he will have had to have eaten every single menu item at least once. Before starting the experiment, he is tested by three doctors - a general practitioner, a cardiologist and a gastroenterologist - who pronounce his general health to be outstanding. They will also monitor him over the thirty days to ensure that he is not placing his health into irreparable damage...

This film is seen through my eyes as a experiment and to show a wide audience that fast food is not what it all seems. McDonalds and Burger King, major fast food companies rely on advertising in a bid for their product to get out. But by now, its so well known and tasty, many people end up only snacking on those brands. Its a real expose into how fast food in general is damaging the health of america and how people are trying to fight back.

Morgan's experiment is daring and shocking at the same time. You have some physically making themselves sick in order to prove to people that fast food and the business in general is doing a lot of bad in the world. Its very distressing at the same time, but by the end, it proves a lot to many people. It proves that despite the advertising and the world wide access, its the choice of the consumer that makes them fat and ill, not the corporation.

Overall, Super Size Me is a great documentary fronted by a terrific personality and tackles a subject not many people were aware of.

Rating - 91% - A

[honeykid]

Have you seen the tv series, A Day In The Life? I'd recommend that if you liked this.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Submarine

Indie films are more and less about the vision of the filmmaker rather about the money. They allow a director to unleash their imagination and vision of stories and characters onto the screen. Submarine showcases a vision that is worth seeing.

Precocious Oliver struggles with being popular in school but when a dark-haired beauty takes interest in him, he's determined to become the best boyfriend in the world. Meanwhile, his parents' already rocky relationship is threatened when his mother's ex-boyfriend moves in next door. Oliver makes some unorthodox plans to ensure that his parents stay together and that Jordana still likes him.

There are a number of things that makes this film work. Firstly is the visual style of the film. It totally reflects the main character's morbid view of the world and how he sees now life and livelihood in his town. Craig Roberts performance in the film is really good and there is a hint of maybe he suffers from aspergers syndrome. Its not confirmed, but its highly encouraged and hinted that he does. There is a lot of focus on blue and red in the film and those colours and camera techniques help make the film trippy and art focused.

A lot of film is very cheap. The costumes of the parents make them feel very working class. The lighting and the music gives that alternative feel that it isn't the top notch hollywood film and it does everything to separate itself from it and appeal to a niche audience, and in my view, it pulls that off very well. My one nagging problem is that it tends to be 4th wall a bit too much.

Overall, Submarine is a well made film with excellent stories and characters as well as good camerwork and cinematography.

Rating - 92% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Hunger Games

So I saw this on the first day aware of the hype and fanbase this film already contained, so this was going to be a film that really needed impressing.

In a dystopian future, the totalitarian nation of Panem is divided between 12 districts and the Capitol. Each year two young representatives from each district are selected by lottery to participate in The Hunger Games. Part entertainment, part brutal retribution for a past rebellion, the televised games are broadcast throughout Panem. The 24 participants are forced to eliminate their competitors while the citizens of Panem are required to watch. When 16-year-old Katniss's young sister, Prim, is selected as District 12's female representative, Katniss volunteers to take her place. She and her male counterpart Peeta, are pitted against bigger, stronger representatives who have trained for this their whole lives.

The film itself is a very thrilling and gritty tale about survival and control over the mass. The character of Katniss is a fighter, but is forced into the fighting position rather than taking it on herself. She volunteers for the games because she has no choice, and only did it to protect her younger sister. The first half of the film is the hype and fear of death and what The Hunger Games is to this society and world. Katniss is forced to train and develops a unique relationship with Peeta, which slowly involves throughout the film. When the battle begins, it becomes dog eat dog and Katniss is in a fight for survival with the nation fully engaged in the fight. Its brutal and sometimes terrfying, but you root for Katniss throughout the film and there are moments that leave you on the edge of your seat.

The one issue is the camera work. The stedicam can be a little tiring at points and while it doesn't get point, it annoys me that the film couldn't sit still and relax for one point and proceeded to move around and go so fast. But that again works for the film because the story is fast paced and leaves you breathless.

Overall, The Hunger Games is a good old blockbuster with terrific visuals, cinematography, a star studded performance by Jennifer Lawrence and a great dark story for teens to get excited for.

Rating - 94% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...War Horse

Steven Spielberg has mad many films that has cemented him as a iconic film director of modern times. But this film may be one of his most special and touching ones to date.

Dartmoor,1914: To his wife's dismay farmer Narracott buys a thoroughbred horse rather than a plough animal, but when his teenaged son Albert trains the horse and calls him Joey, the two becoming inseparable. When his harvest fails, the farmer has to sell Joey to the British cavalry and he is shipped to France where, after a disastrous offensive he is captured by the Germans and changes hands twice more before he is found, caught in the barbed wire in No Man's Land four years later and freed. He is returned behind British lines where Albert, now a private, has been temporarily blinded by gas, but still recognizes his beloved Joey. However, as the Armistice is declared Joey is set to be auctioned off. After all they have been through will Albert and Joey return home together?

To those who say that Spielberg is staring to make less than good films and that his best days were behind him, then this film will prove many wrong. What War Horse achieves is that Spielberg at 65 can still deliver touching and wonderful entertainment for families, and that when the day comes when Spielberg ceases to be in this world, Cinema will be a very different place. War Horse is a film in which instead of a human character, the main character is an animal and one that you instantly care about when the film starts, and we follow the horse's journey throughout the first world war. There are some scenes which are harrowing, and then some that show the horse in a more friendly and calm atmosphere, but those last briefly. We meet many different characters that the horse connects with, and it helps that we see different characters react to the horse differently in different circumstances.

The cinematography is really good and the color of the film is showcased in particular good shots. Many critics have also said that Spielberg shoots some of his best camera work in this film, and there is some terrific shots in the film that are both beautiful and horrific. The Story is also well written with some good acting by newcomer Jeremy Irvine and Peter Mullan too. You can say its a British Film with an american director at the helm, and it truly does feel British all the way.

Overall, War Horse is a real treat and probably one of Spielberg's best for a while. e has two projects on the way which could both increase Spielberg's reputation.

Rating - 95% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Jesus Camp

I was quite excited and interested when watching the trailer, and so you could tell by my huge disappointment. that this film is nowhere near as good or interesting as It was hyped up to be.

Jesus Camp follows several young children as they prepare to attend a summer camp where the kids will get their daily dose of evangelical Christianity. Becky Fischer works at the camp, which is named Kids on Fire. Through interviews with Fischer, the children, and others, Jesus Camp illustrates the unswerving belief of the faithful. A housewife and homeschooling mother tells her son that creationism has all the answers. Footage from inside the camp shows young children weeping and wailing as they promise to stop their sinning. Child after child is driven to tears. Juxtapose these scenes with clips from a more moderate Christian radio host (who is appalled by such tactics), and Jesus Camp seems to pose a clear question: are these children being brainwashed?

Now there are some interesting bits in the film in which we see kids literally on their knees in tears praying to god as well as an insight into the people who are so in belief of Christianity and the fact that nothing else is right. That part got to me, but the rest of the film just doesn't live up to me. It was slow and dreary and eventually got boring after a while, mainly because the interest of the subject and the characters and the shock factor of people believing a religion faded away pretty quickly.

Overall, not much to say other than its a pretty underwhelming documentary with a disappointing and slow premise.

Rating - 61% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Descendants

George Clooney & Alexander Payne's finest hour. A film based on a small known book, but for no longer. The story goes like this. With his wife Elizabeth on life support after a boating accident, Hawaiian land baron Matt King takes his daughters on a trip from Oahu to Kauai to confront the young real estate broker, who was having an affair with Elizabeth before her misfortune.

This film is very good. Alexander Payne is a director that knows how to make a good film, with a tremendous story attached. Clooney really does give a good performance about a flawed father trying to remend his broken family. You buy into his character and his situation very quickly and you can tell he is trying, but he has never really been in there lives that much and he refers himself as "The Backup Parent" and this is where it comes into effect. The two daughters are also very good and played by two talented actresses. Matthew Linard who is also known for Scream and The Scooby Doo movies is also very good in this film and plays a real crucial role in the film's plot.

What works about this story is the setting. Hawaii is well shot and well colored in the film and you get the feeling that the characters aren't happy even in the happiest of places. There is a sense of depression and unsatisfactory throughout the story, and even at the end, there is a sense of while things are resolved, they still don't feel at all happy. The direction and screenplay are also well done and its translated greatly on screen.

Overall, The Descendants is a well crafted film, and while its not Payne's best (Sideways) he still proves that he's a director with a hell of a career to come.

Rating - 94% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Taxi Driver

One Of Martin Scorsese's best ever films. A film which delves into a decaying city of sleaze and crime and throws Scorsese into the big leagues.

Travis Bickle is an ex-Marine and Vietnam War veteran living in New York City. As he suffers from insomnia, he spends his time working as a taxi driver at night, watching porn movies at seedy cinemas during the day, or thinking about how the world, New York in particular, has deteriorated into a cesspool. He's a loner who has strong opinions about what is right and wrong with mankind. For him, the one bright spot in New York humanity is Betsy, a worker on the presidential nomination campaign of Senator Charles Palatine. He becomes obsessed with her. After an incident with her, he believes he has to do whatever he needs to to make the world a better place in his opinion. One of his priorities is to be the savior for Iris, a twelve-year-old runaway and prostitute who he believes wants out of the profession and under the thumb of her pimp and lover Matthew.

Taxi Driver is a rare watch because its one of those films that takes its time to process and allows you to think about what you are watching rather than throw everything at you at once. Firstly is the performance by Robert De Niro. His performance is very good and up there as one of his best. His early work is arguably some of his performances of his career before he starts phoning it in. We get a sense of a character who is sick of the life he lives and sets out to make some form of change in himself, as well as the society around him. Its a slow and physiological journey that he goes through and its great to watch as we see him in some way being transformed into something very threatening and dangerous. Jodie Foster is also very good in it and looks incredibly gritty and manipulated by his pimp. Horrible to watch, but great performance none the less.

The direction by Martin Scorsese is well done and cements himself as an upcoming and very skilled director. His skill with camera is really good and sets himself separately from other directors. He captures the grittiness of NYC perfectly during that time period.

Overall, Taxi Driver is a superb watch with some great camerawork, acting and a very entertaining experience from Martin Scorsese.

Rating - 97% - A

[Tyler1]

^ Excellent movie, though not as good as Raging Bull.

[HitchFan97]

I love and adore Taxi Driver. One of the greatest films I've ever seen.

[MovieMad16]

Scorsese really showcases in this film what he can do with so little. I haven't seen Raging Bull, but I really want to and hopefully will very soon.

[BestFlix]

Great reviews. Have read through a lot of the older ones you did. They are very good. I agree with most your ratings but we are all have different ideas of what is good and bad. Keep up the good work.

[MovieMad16]

thank you very much

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews... Inglourious Basterds

Quentin Tarantino has made some incredible films in his career. However, this one I am not so sure on.

In Nazi occupied France, young Jewish refugee Shosanna Dreyfus witnesses the slaughter of her family by Colonel Hans Landa. Narrowly escaping with her life, she plots her revenge several years later when German war hero Fredrick Zoller takes a rapid interest in her and arranges an illustrious movie premiere at the theater she now runs. With the promise of every major Nazi officer in attendance, the event catches the attention of the "Basterds", a group of Jewish-American guerilla soldiers led by the ruthless Lt. Aldo Raine. As the relentless executioners advance and the conspiring young girl's plans are set in motion, their paths will cross for a fateful evening that will shake the very annals of history.

This film to me was very disappointing. Firstly, the moments of dialogue were either too long or not very interesting at all. I never found Christoph Waltz performance at all intimidating, scary or awards worthy. A 2D character in my opinion with no edge and just witty lines to show for it. Brad Pitt's character was also not very interesting and was just there really for them to have an interesting or marketable hero to showcase for it. The only really interesting character was Melanie Laurent's character who was determined to get revenge on those who tried to kill her. Very interesting character played by a very talented and underrated actress.

All of it in the end was just not very interesting and it all came down to the plot and Tarantino trying in some way to be different. Overall, a disappointing flick with some good moments and some that just bored me to tears.

Rating - 61% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Forgetting Sarah Marshall

I never intended to sit down and watch this film, but after seeing Get Him To The Greek, I thought I might as well compare.

Peter is a composer and a likable sad sack who's devastated when his girlfriend of five years, Sarah Marshall, the star of a cheesy CSI-style crime show, dumps him. He weeps, he rails, he mopes. Finally, his step-brother Brian suggests Hawaii, so Peter heads for a resort on Oahu where, as he's checking in, he sees Sarah and her new beau, Aldous, a polymorphously perverse English rocker. The weeping and moping start again, until Peter is rescued by Rachel, a thoughtful hotel clerk who invites him to a luau and to hang out. Although he constantly runs into Sarah and Aldous, Peter starts to come alive again. Will Sarah realize what she's lost, and what about Rachel?

This film took me by surprise. There are a lot of funny scenes as well as interesting characters in this film that made me engage with the film properly. Jason Segel is very good as the lead as is Kristen Bell who I've always felt is a very underrated actress in Hollywood who deserves more meaty roles. The story is easy to follow and really creates some interesting comedic situations. Russell Brand is good in his role, despite it being very similar to his personality. You also have good supporting performances by Mila Kunis, Jonah Hill and Paul Rudd who are also good in their own way.

The film's location gives a very romantic and exotic feel to the film. It works and it makes the film more appealing. The music is also good the way Jason Segel's character is connected to it in some way. Jason also wrote the film and is definitely talented in his own way.

Overall, A very underrated film and deserves to be seen by many who like Jason Segel.

Rating - 81% - A-

[JayDee]

If I'm wanting people to look at my Movie Musings thread seems only fair that I keep up with the other reviewers. So started catching up with some of your reviews and amongst others I completely agree on The Muppets, Descendants, Rise of Planet of the Apes, There Will Be Blood and the wonderful little gem, Submarine.

[MovieMad16]

Thanks very much. I've been reading yours too and I'm enjoying your reviews and musings very much.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Avengers Assemble

Being hyped up since its conception in 2005, the groundwork being lead on the ground in 2008 and built up since. Now its out and this is my review.

Nick Fury is director of S.H.I.E.L.D, an international peace keeping agency. The agency is a who's who of Marvel Super Heroes, with Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Thor, Captain America, Hawkeye and Black Widow. When global security is threatened by Loki and his cohorts, Nick Fury and his team will need all their powers to save the world from disaster.

This was a film that really grew on me throughout the year. Also I haven't seen all of the Marvel Superhero films in this continuity (Just Thor & The Two Iron Man films), yet I understood all of what the characters were going through and the responsibility that was held on them. All of the superheroes have their own special ability that makes their role in the team worth while. The story is about the team working together and overcoming egos, feuds and traumas to take on a more terrifying ordeal.

There are many good performances in this film in particularly Robert Downey Jr who just completely embodies Tony Stark, physically and character wise. However to me the star of the show was Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow. For a brief moment of the film, we begin to see a vulnerable person who has emotions and feelings for other people and can be easily manipulated by the use of emotions. This is demonstrated by a scene with her and Loki, as well as Black Widow's battle with The Hulk. I am now hoping Marvel Studios are developing a Black Widow film.

Joss Whedon's direction is very good and combines the character arc, story arc and blockbuster element of the films and worlds and makes something really worth investing. The Special Effects are also well done and realistic enough for the story to work.

Overall, The Avengers is a fun film and will no doubt be a success. Summer 2012 has officially begun.

Rating - 94% - A

[JayDee]

Thanks very much. I've been reading yours too and I'm enjoying your reviews and musings very much.

Oh really? Thanks. Nice to hear. :yup: Unless people leave comments or rep (hint hint :p) I'm never really sure just how many people, and who, are checking in.

Summer 2012 has officially begun.


You sure about that? Here in Glasgow we had a high of 7° today, with extremely heavy hailstones on Tuesday. Where is this summer you speak of? :D

[MovieMad16]

Oh really? Thanks. Nice to hear. :yup: Unless people leave comments or rep (hint hint :p) I'm never really sure just how many people, and who, are checking in.



You sure about that? Here in Glasgow we had a high of 7° today, with extremely heavy hailstones on Tuesday. Where is this summer you speak of? :D

Didn't we have a summer spell not a few weeks back ? I also live in Glasgow or outside of it.

What I was really meaning Summer film season is beginning. Weather conditions are quite crap as it always the case with Scotland.

[JayDee]

Didn't we have a summer spell not a few weeks back ? I also live in Glasgow or outside of it.

What I was really meaning Summer film season is beginning. Weather conditions are quite crap as it always the case with Scotland.

Yeah it's been really weird. We had like the warmest March on record, and now we've had the wettest and one of the coldest Aprils.

And yeah I knew what you were talking about, just messing around. :D

[MovieMad16]

I thought Summer came really early with that nice sunny weather. Its been ok in my area, as it was nice and sunny today. So maybe its coming back. Who knows. We've always had crap weather.

[JayDee]

We've always had crap weather.

As Billy Connolly says there is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes. :D

[honeykid]

You sure about that? Here in Glasgow we had a high of 7° today, with extremely heavy hailstones on Tuesday. Where is this summer you speak of? :D
Don't complain. That'd be the best summer n3wt's ever seen. :D

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Simple Simon

A film which is very close to my heart because it deals with a theme which affects me and many others around the world. A truely underrated gem of a film.

When Sam's girlfriend breaks up with him he becomes depressed. To cheer him up, and get things back to normal, his socially awkward brother Simon (Skarsgård) decides to set out on a quest to find Sam a new, perfect, girlfriend. Struggling with his own Asperger Syndrome, the quest is more difficult than Simon first expected.

Watching this film, I began to really relate to the character Simon because i also suffer from Aspergers Syndrome, which can be a tricky condition to live with. Yet the characters deal with it very well. The acting and atmosphere of the story really works together, as it blends between comedy and drama and does so by putting you into the world of a character who very much see things very differently from other people. Simon is someone going about his business, and then ends up causing a huge dilemma that he intends to fix. And throughout the film, many events that you wouldn't expect any character to do, he does them.

The Acting is well done especially from the actor who portrays Simon, the aspergers kid. As someone who has it, I can safely say he did an exceptional job highlighting the issue. He does certain things that can be funny, but also sad as well as the audience would always laugh at certain scenes that were funny, but also kind of tragic because he doesn't really know how to react to certain things. He is very insecure and spends time inside a dustbin and pretends its a spaceship. His imagination and attention to detail is another clever trait that works for the character and lures in the audience, as well as it being another thing that Aspergers people have.

Overall, Its a must see film. Its original, well acted, a well crafted story and a film that tackles a very good issue people known little about.

Rating - 100% - A+

[nebbit]

Thanks for the review :yup: sounds like an interesting movie :yup:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Who Framed Roger Rabbit ?

An animated film which everyone loves and has high respect for, but my opinion is slightly different.

'Toon star Roger is worried that his wife Jessica is playing pattycake with someone else, so the studio hires detective Eddie Valiant to snoop on her. But the stakes are quickly raised when Marvin Acme is found dead and Roger is the prime suspect. Groundbreaking interaction between the live and animated characters, and lots of references to classic animation.

Who Framed Roger Rabbit is perhaps the only film to get Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny on the same film together at the same time. The film itself is an interesting take on a noir film with colour. You have a mystery and a situation in which two characters rely on each other to solve the mystery. It contains all the fun cliches you'd expect in a mystery film, with the additions of toons in the film. Its not in black and white, but you definitely feel the tone and mood on the screen despite it being colour.

Bob Hoskins is good in the role and really has a good history to invest in. The character of Roger Rabbit is goofy and Over the top, but likable and you do root for him throughout the film. The villain played by Christopher Lloyd is obviously a villain and it builds throughout the film with a very dark but funny climax.

My one problem though was that I was quite disappointing by the whole thing at the end. I think it was to do with overhype and how everyone I knew spoke with high praise for the film. But really, It felt flawed and at times slow.

Overall, Who Framed Roger Rabbit is funny and worth a watch. But in my eyes, its not as brilliant than everyone talks it up to.

Rating - 81% - A-

[nebbit]

I :love: This movie :yup:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Stepford Wives (2004)

I've always been fascinated with this story and so when I finally saw the film for this, I was quite excited.

Joanna Eberhart, a wildly succesful president of a TV Network, after a series of shocking events suffers a nervous breakdown and is moved by her milquetoast of a husband, Walter, from Manhattan to the chic, upper-class and very modern planned community of Stepford, Connecticut. Once there, she makes good friends with the ascerbic Bobbie Markowitz, a jewish writer who's also a recovering alcoholic. Together they find out, much to their growing stupor and-then horror, that all the housewives in town are strangely blissful, and somehow... doomed. What is going on behind the closed doors of the Stepford Men's Association and the Stepford Day Spa? Why is everything perfect here? Will it be too late for Joanna and Bobbie when they finally find out?

The film is good and tells a very unusual story about men controlling their wives and turning them into lifeless beings. In many ways, its men's secret fantasy. The film has its comedic moments, but the plot takes time to progress before it gets to the good bits, plus you sort of guess what is going to happen next, which doesn't excite me in anyway. However the performances are good, such as Nicole Kidman & Matthew Broderick, all bringing something to the table that makes the story that believeable.

Another problem is the ending. Its different from the book and original film which annoys me as it doesn't do the story any justice. But its new and interesting, just not as good as the original one.

Overall, The Stepford Wives remake is fun and quirky but does not have a long term impact or excitement.

Rating - 71% - B+

[The Rodent]

I found the same, fun, interesting concept, relatively well acted but felt shallow compared to the book.

Kind of like Spielberg with War Of The Worlds. They remade the original film, rather than making something that closer resembled the original source. It made Stepford Wives feel more of a hollow rewrite.

Nice review matey.

[MovieMad16]

I haven't seen The original WOTW. I've read the book and its very creepy and i just love the ending to it.

[The Rodent]

Stick with the book mate, if you've read the book you'll hate the films.

The 1952 film, though it's closer to the book than Spielberg's, it's still as bad as Spielberg's abomination.
Many call the original film a classic but, simply being made in 1952 doesn't make it a classic if it's complete pap.

Spielberg simply made a CGI laden alien invasion movie and slapped the WOTW title on it, he even had cameo appearances from the cast of the original film, that's how far removed it is from the source.

[MovieMad16]

I have seen the 2005 film.

[honeykid]

The original Stepford Wives is a classic. This remake was abhorent. While I can admit that there was little chance of me liking it anything like as much as I do the original, I did think there was a chance I might enjoy it. Then I saw the trailer and from that moment on, it was dead to me. I only saw this because a friend wanted to see it and paid, but even then I'd rather have not had gone.

[JayDee]

Not seen that version of Stepford Wives, but just by pure coincidence I just watched and posted a review for the original. Despite not seeing the remake I'm surprised to see a couple of positive views on it. Most of what I'd seen/heard about it were really nasty about it

[nebbit]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Stepford Wives (2004)

Overall, The Stepford Wives remake is fun and quirky but does not have a long term impact or excitement.

Rating - 71% - B+
:yup:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Every Little Step

I personally have never seen A Chorus Line, but this documentary was floating around on my Tivo, so I thought I would give it a watch. And here is my review.

Starting at midnight January 26, 1974, dancer and choreographer Michael Bennett held a twelve-hour taped get-together with twenty-two dancers talking about themselves, he not knowing exactly where it would lead. It would become the genesis for what has become one of the most influential Broadway musicals of all time, and a show which speaks to theatrical dancers' hearts: "A Chorus Line". In 2008, a Broadway revival of the show is being mounted, with many involved in the original production part of the creative team behind the revival. The issue for the revival's creative team is to make the show and the casting fresh, while respecting the original, where the characters, their stories and their related songs all came out of the 1974 dancers' stories, they who were cast in the original production. Although the names and the faces have changed from 1974, the dancers auditioning mirror many of the stories and issues faced by those original dancers.

This documentary focuses on the Broadway revival and the grueling process of getting it together. You see people who are desperate for their chance in the spotlight and will fight tooth and claw to get there, and you feel their exhaustion and pain as they struggle to get into the cast. For the people behind the scenes and making the decisions, the task is even more difficult. I don't know if this a regular thing or not, but it must be hell being in their shoes making these tough decisions and breaking people's hearts.

The film goes right into the heart of planning a musical and the highs and lows as well as the length of time it takes to get it perfect. Its a timeline documentary in which we see the show's production from beginning to end, and by the end, you feel like you have been on a long journey.

Overall, Every Little Step is a good documentary and shows what it takes to make a successful musical work and the hard work it endures. I do recommend it.

Rating - 76% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Bronson

Before Drive, there was Bronson...and this was Nick Weinding Refn's masterpiece.

In 1974, a hot-headed 19 year old named Michael Peterson decided he wanted to make a name for himself and so, with a homemade sawn-off shotgun and a head full of dreams he attempted to rob a post office. Swiftly apprehended and originally sentenced to 7 years in jail, Peterson has subsequently been behind bars for 34 years, 30 of which have been spent in solitary confinement. During that time, Michael Petersen, the boy, faded away and 'Charles Bronson,' his superstar alter ego, took center stage. Inside the mind of Bronson - a scathing indictment of celebrity culture.

This film is superb. I'll start with the cinematography which is very good. The lighting gives you that gritty feel that you are in a prison full of lowlifes and crazies. The makeup totally works and the camerawork is both unusual and creative. Then there are the performances. Tom Hardy is the star and its the film that really puts him on the map. Hardy certainly is talented and directors such as Nolan definitely used him in his films and I'm sure he has a hell of a career ahead of him.

The Direction of this film is fantastic and proves that Nick Weinding Refn has got exceptional talent which is later demonstrated on a massive scale with Drive and hopefully in the future, he could be the new Hot Shot On The Block. The Story of the film is an interesting one as its a true story and delves into the psychique of a man who enjoys violence. He is obviously mad and as the film continues, we see him slowly lose his mind and sense of intelligence as he turns into a fighting machine.

Overall, Bronson is a magnificent film and definitely one that got the talent of the crew and cast moved on to bigger heights. It excels in talent, imagery and story.

Rating - 100% - A+

[nebbit]

Great review :yup: I have wanted to see this movie for a while now :yup:

[The Rodent]

Agreed, nice review. Bronson is a top film and Hardy really nails the role. Surreal, funny and disturbing all at the same time Totally agree with the 100% too.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Fear & Loathing In Las Vegas

Johnny Depp has proven many times just how good and diverse of an actor he can be. This is one of the films that you could say he really tries his hardest to be incredibly different than his any other roles.

The big-screen version of Hunter S. Thompson's seminal psychedelic classic about his road trip across Western America as he and his large Samoan lawyer searched desperately for the "American dream"... they were helped in large part by the huge amount of drugs and alcohol kept in their convertible, The Red Shark.

This film is like one wild ride that doesn't seem to stop. Its not really a film with much of a plot, but a look at what happens when you take drugs to the ultimate level, and its demonstrated right here in this film. Johnny Depp plays a very wacky on the edge character in which you barely know about, aside from his relationship with several types of drugs. Yet the role is his to do whatever he wants with it and he creates a very incredible three dimensional character, that is both wacky yet interesting at the same time. I also really like the dialogue and I presume a lot of it was taken from the book. But where ever it came from, its very good and reads beautifully when you see it in printed form and it sounds incredible to have been witnessed.

Terry Gilliam's direction is like no others in the cinema world. Pure genius and he captures the hallucination and delusional side of the story brilliantly. There are several scenes I really like, from the dinosaur bar scene, from the scene in which Raoul hallucinates that the hotel is flooded. Both these scenes are great Gilliam scenes and truly give the film that weird feeling that only he can deliver.

Overall, Fear & Loathing is a real splendid watch which deserves to be seen. I had low hopes for this, but because of Depp's performance, the direction, the beautiful camerawork and editing, the film is one of Gilliam's best.

Rating - 99% - A

[honeykid]

I love this film. I'd also recommend reading the book. :yup:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...American Reunion

American Pie has always been a franchise you ever love or hate. If you take up the direct DVD films (In which I haven't seen), the films have been a success. So hopefully this film can achieve the same thing.

Over a decade has passed and the gang return to East Great Falls, Michigan, for the weekend. They will discover how their lives have developed as they gather for their high school reunion. How has life treated Michelle, Jim, Heather, Oz, Kevin, Vicky, Finch, Stifler, and Stifler's mom? In the summer of 1999, it was four boys on a quest to lose their virginity. Now Kara is a cute high school senior looking for the perfect guy to lose her virginity to.

This film contains some really great laughs and the traditional american pie humor that the franchise has carried for the past eight or so films. This film does that and there are some moments which really are laugh out loud funny, which comedies these days rarely do (In my case that is.). The highlight star of the film is of course Sean William Scott who is of course Stiffler. He perfectly gets back into the role and while nothing new is added, he is still great as always. There are some funny set pieces including Stiffler's reunion party which hilarity ensures.

The problems are that the dialogue can be clunky at points (As I recently discovered, has always been the case with American Pie), The characters tend to reflect too much on their past and it really adds nothing new to the series as its rather a reunion film. And while its still enjoyable, nothing is really progressed in terms of long term arc.

Overall, American Reunion is a fun and funny film and will satisfy fans of the series.

Rating - 80% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...New Moon

I recall reviewing the first Twilight film as a real terrible dull film. Well this film in many ways is a lot better...but still rubbish.

After Bella recovers from the vampire attack that almost claimed her life, she looks to celebrate her birthday with Edward and his family. However, a minor accident during the festivities results in Bella's blood being shed, a sight that proves too intense for the Cullens, who decide to leave the town of Forks, Washington for Bella and Edward's sake. Initially heartbroken, Bella finds a form of comfort in reckless living, as well as an even-closer friendship with Jacob Black. Danger in different forms awaits.

Here is the thing with this movie. Its not as boring as the first one, but still quite boring. In fact, this one is more camp and cheesy in many cases. Bella is more unlikable than she is in the first one mainly because she makes choices that are just flat out stupid. I wanted more Anna Kendrick and was dissapointed when I barely got enough scenes of her. However the character of Jacob unlike Edward is a real nice character and has a more interesting character arc than Edward. Edward comes across in the film at times as a bit of an arse and a prick. Jacob is a bit more relaxed and caring of Bella as she goes through her grief.

The Volturi are crap villains. Just really silly villains that Edward and the other characters could squash in a heartbeat. Voldermort in a flick of his wand would destroy him, completely. But they are built up as complete big bads and they aren't that intimidating or evil.

Overall, New Moon is not a massive improvement from Twilight, but an Improvement none the less. Its at least watchable and contains somewhat of an interesting story.

Rating - 35% - C

[nebbit]

Not a big fan of these movies :nope: Thanks for the review :)

[MovieMad16]

Neither was I, but New Moon is better than Twilight by a good stretch.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Moonrise Kingdom

I've never seen a Wes Anderson film before, but after seeing the trailer for this, my excitement was quickly buzzing for this. After seeing it, It was worth the hype. The film is Set on an island off the coast of New England in the 1960s, as a young boy and girl fall in love they are moved to run away together. Various factions of the town mobilize to search for them and the town is turned upside down -- which might not be such a bad thing.

First thing I love about this film is the camerawork. Its fantastic and really throws you in this quirky unusual world that Anderson is trying to establish. Secondly is the cinematography which adds a very 60s groovy feel to it. The costumes add to the color of the piece and the unusual music that Anderson himself picks out carefully clicks the film in motion.

The Acting is terrific and the star in my eyes is Newcomer Kara Hayward who plays Suzy. She's great and really adds depth to her character who is lonely and misunderstood. I liked the boy as well, but the girl in my eyes was more developed and rounded. In terms of adult stars, Jason Schwartzman and Edward Norton both stood out in their own terrific way as did Harvey Keitel. I also really liked Bob Balaban as the Narrator. Its a small role but quirky in its own way.

Overall, Moonrise Kingdom is a well put together film with quality camerawork, costume design, cinematography, acting and music. Its in my opinion the best film of the year so far.

Rating - 100% - A+

[Tyler1]

Thats just fantastic. Makes me want to watch this film. I suppose you've seen Rushmore as well?

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Prometheus

Ridley Scott returns to Sci Fi to prove to me and to many other audience members that he isn't an overrated director (Like I think so). So has he done it with Prometheus ?

A team of scientists journey through the universe on the spaceship "Prometheus" on a voyage to investigate Alien life forms. The team of scientists becomes stranded on an Alien world, and as they struggle to survive it becomes clear that the horrors they experience are not just a threat to themselves, but to all of mankind.

I really liked this film. Its a worthy prequel to Alien and introduces us to a whole different side of the Alien universe. First thing I like is the story. While it takes some aspects of Alien's story, It does however add its own twist to it and new ideas. I like the mythological sense to it, but yet wished for it to be more fleshed out as it was only teased and never delved into. Yet the location of the story does give you the sense that something has been forgotten and is about to be rediscovered once again.

I also really liked the characters in this film. Most of them are interesting and well acted. Michael Fassbender's character is mysterious and has a sense of subtle menace to him that you can't really pick up until later on. Noomi Repace is also very good as the female lead. Scott knows how to create a good female character, and while she's no Ellen Ripley, she certainly makes the film worth it.

"My one nagging problem with this film which prevents it from being perfect is that there is only surface and no depth. You get an entertaining story but there isn't much they discover, and it sort of prevents you from really finding out things that connect from Alien."

Overall, Prometheus is a well made film and should be seen by Scott fans and fans of Alien. However its flawed but never the less entertaining to see.

Rating - 94% - A

[MovieMad16]

Thats just fantastic. Makes me want to watch this film. I suppose you've seen Rushmore as well?

This was the first Wes Anderson film I saw. So No but I would like to in the near future.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Safe

Going into this film I wasn't expecting much. My dad was eager to see it where I wasn't bothered in the slightest. Despite my expectations, It turned out pretty well.

A former elite agent (Statham) takes on a two-tier mission: rescue a Chinese girl who has been abducted by the Triads, then use a highly desired safe combination to outwit the Russian Mafia, corrupt NYC officials, and the Triads themselves.

Its pretty basic. Statham beats people up and runs around a city shooting and killing. Nothing new. But never the less its a good film. The story makes you root for the characters and there is a growing connection between the little Japanese girl and Statham's character. The film contains some good action pieces and some brutal fight scenes. I won't complain about lack of depth or predictable plot, because you really see it for the spectacle and not the story.

Overall, Safe is a standard and fun Action flick that would be handy for a Saturday Night flick.

Rating - 73% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Following

Christopher Nolan right now is the director of the moment. He has made 1.8 Billion Dollars in the span of Four Years with Two films. Who knows how much he will make with The Dark Knight Rises. However lets go back to his first ever film before he reached the heights he did...Following.

An older man listens to Bill's story about being a callow writer who likes to follow strangers around around London, observing them. One day, a glib and self-confident man whom Bill has been following confronts him. He's Cobb, a burglar who takes Bill under his wing and shows him how to break and enter. They burgle a woman's flat; Bill gets intrigued with her (photographs are everywhere in her flat). He follows her and chats her up at a bar owned by her ex-boyfriend, a nasty piece of work who killed someone in her living room with a hammer. Soon Bill is volunteering to do her a favor, which involves a break-in. What does the older man know that Bill doesn't?

Made for so little money, Following is a well made film with strengths in plot and twists. It has a strong and pretty original plot with characters with original traits and personalities, in a bleak and realistic world which doesn't seem to have a sci fi or fantasy spin on it. You have very few characters in the story, yet they are compelling enough to hold your interest. Names aren't established either. You have the main character who is known as "The Young Man" who is embroiled in a trade of stealing from houses and selling it on the streets. He follows people for his employee Cobb (Remember that name ?). The plot however goes deeper and more complex, but brilliant at the same time.

The film is shot in black and white and gives a very noir feel to the film. Its a modern noir if you like and works best to the story. I hope more noir films are made in the future because its definitely a genre that can still lure in an audience. Overall, Following is a must see film for all Nolan fans as to get a taste of his early work. Its a great film noir well deserved to be seen.

Rating - 97% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...American Pie 2

The first American Pie film was good...but Personal taste, this is a lot better and more fun.

The whole gang are back and as close as ever. They decide to get even closer by spending the summer together at a beach house. They decide to hold the biggest party ever to be seen, even if the preparation doesn't always go to plan. Especially when Stifler, Finch and Jim become more close to each other than they ever want to be and when Jim mistakes super glue for lubricant.

The second American Pie in my ways has funnier humor and a better set up overall. We get to see the established characters in an independent area where they get to make their own decisions that impact them throughout the rest of the film. Stiffler is really the star of the film, but Jim has really the only character arc in which he has to prepare for Nadia returning to see him. Of course things don't pan out but it defies Jim as a better character by the end.

Some really stand out gags in the film too. The best one is the lesbian set piece which leads to hilarious moments which made me laugh out loud. The lubricant scene was also very funny and lead to some awkward yet good scenes.

Overall, American Pie 2 is a worthy sequel to check out. It can divide people, but I think its better than the first one.

Rating - 85% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Attack The Block

I didn't expect much from this film. The idea seemed too quirky and silly, but after seeing this, I have quite a new opinion on this film.

The basic story of the film is a bunch of teenagers in South London who live in a council flat, has to fight aliens within this flat to stay alive.

And on that basis, the film is entertaining enough to mount an audience and win over the majority of critics. Its original and offers a new approach to Sci Fi Action. The characters aren't really characters you normally get in sci fi films. They are out for their own gain at the start, but when faced with a really serious threat, you start to root for them more and hope that they survive.

The acting is very good. Some stand out newcomers that have promise especially John Boyega as the lead. Nick Frost plays a supporting character that adds much needed humor and continuity.

The effects both visual and practical are good. The aliens look unlike anything you've really seen on screen before. But they do have similarities with other monsters such as The Xenomorph from Alien and maybe Apes too.

Overall, Its a solid film that's worth seeing.

Rating - 81% - A-

[nebbit]

Thanks for the review :) I saw it a while ago and thought it was just ok :yup:

[MovieMad16]

Its flawed don't get me wrong, but I liked it more than I thought I would.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Ferris Bueller's Day Off

One of John Hughes's most acclaimed and beloved films. The film that pretty much made Matthew Broderick a house hold name. Does Ferris Bueller still have it in him ?

Ferris is a street-wise kid who knows all the tricks. Today he decides to take the day off school. When Ferris takes the day off, so must his best friends, Cameron and Sloane. Cameron is reluctantly persuaded to borrow his father's Ferrari, and together they hatch a plan to get Sloane out of class. Suspicious dean of students Ed Rooney knows all about Ferris, but can never catch him. Ferris' sister Jeanie is also frustrated that Ferris always gets away with his tricks and she doesn't. Furthermore, Ferris is an 'angel' in his parents eyes. It's Ferris' day off, he's out to enjoy himself, and he does!.

I truly loved this film. The premise was just so simple and yet so original at the same time. Ferris is likable enough for you to root for him yet despite the fact that he is doing something quite bad. Its how he speaks and the dialogue in general that make you like him and the fact that he plans ahead of things rather than think on the spot. Ferris also has a best friend played by Alan Ruck and a girlfriend played by Mia Sara. Both work well off of Matthew and the chemistry fits perfectly together. You root for them as friends and you want them to have fun whilst learning more about their friendship.

The Villain of the film is also classic in his own way. He hates Ferris and pretty much wants him to pay for having the freedom and independence to do what he wants. And so he goes on a quest to bring Ferris down, but it usually ends in disaster all because of Ferris's sister played by Jennifer Grey. There are so memorable moments in the film that make it more than just a John Hughes film.

I particularly love the final montage at the end with Ferris running back home. It has been parodied and referenced so many times that the scene itself has become a iconic piece of film. Its funny, well paced and fits perfectly as the climax of the film.

Overall, Ferris Bueller is a classic comedy film with an original premise, clever jokes, great acting and a fun film to enjoy.

Rating - 100% - A+

[The Rodent]

Top feel-good movie and a proper upbeat cast with Broderick, Sara and Ruck bouncing off each other.

Nice review, totally agree with your 100% too.

[JayDee]

Yeah got to go with Rodent on this. :yup: Love Ferris Bueller, one of the best pure feel-good movies out there. I think it will definitely be on my top 100 list next time after I forgot it previously.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Paris Je Taime

I've always wanted to see this film(s). Mainly because I liked the idea of short films with one overall theme or short films that tie over with another short film. Also Love is such an easy and diverse film to do, so there are so many different interpretations and ideas to execute on screen.

Paris, je t'aime is about the plurality of cinema in one mythic location: Paris, the City of Love. Twenty filmmakers have five minutes each; the audience must weaving a single narrative out of twenty moments. The 20 moments are fused by transitional interstitial sequences and also via the introduction and epilogue. Each transition begins with the last shot of the previous film and ends with the first shot of the following film, extending the enchantment and the emotion of the previous segment, preparing the audience for a surprise, and providing a cohesive atmosphere. There's a reappearing mysterious character who is a witness to the Parisian life. A common theme of Paris and love fuses all.

The short films are all good in their own certain way. They each show a form of love in very different ways. You have shorts from Gus Van Sant, The Coens, Alfonso Cuaron, Wes Craven & Alexander Payne as well as many others. My favorites are actually the ones by lesser known directors. The first is a romance between a young boy and a muslim girl which is simple and yet beautiful to watch it unfold and grow. Another one is directed by Isabel Coixet which is told entirely in narration, about a husband who stands by her dying wife but was prepared to leave her. The visuals in that film are very good and tell a powerful story of true love and trust. Another one directed by Nobuhiro Suwa about a mother grieving for her dead son with a weird cameo by William Dafoe. Sylvain Chomet also makes a quirky but wonderful short film about mime artists which just makes me smile really hard. Another moving short directed by Oliver Schmitz about a dying Nigerian man who falls in love with a paramedic. Elijah Wood also stars in a stylish short film about his character falling in love with a vampire. These are the short films I really admired and liked.

There were however a few short films that I felt were a miss for me. I'll start with the Coen Bros whose film is quirky and shot OTT. The idea is good and very interesting, but visually it was a bit all over the place. Alfonso Cuaron's short film is set up as one long continuous shot. Granted its interested and well shot, but the conversation isn't that interesting and the twist isn't really that exciting or shocking.

Overall, Paris Je Taime is a good anthology film that demonstrates many wonderful talents behind and in front of the camera. Its worth seeing.

Rating - 75% - B+

P.S. The Natalie Portman short is probably the best one despite not mentioning it in the review.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...New York, I Love You

The first film set in Paris was a solid anthology film. And so ones expectations were high when ready to watch this film. But does it live up to its predecessor ?

Ten vignettes in New York City: a pickpocket meets his match; a young Hasidic woman, on the eve of her marriage, reveals herself to an Indian businessman; a writer tries a pick-up line; an artist seeks a model; a composer needs to read; two women connect; a man takes a child to Central Park; lovers meet; a couple takes a walk on their anniversary; a kid goes to the prom with a girl in a wheelchair; a retired singer contemplates suicide. There are eight million stories in the naked city: these have been ten of them.

In all honesty, this film is very disappointing and not very good overall. You can't tell which short film is what as they cross over each other and it all becomes very confusing. Granted the acting is good in places, but sometimes underwhelming and not good at all. I won't go into an entire list of the shorts I liked or disliked, because most of them weren't that good anyway. But I'll talk about a few.

The best one out of them all was none other than Brett Ratner's short which was both very well directed and acted. It centers around a teenager with no prom date and so has to take out a girl in a wheelchair. There is a twist in the film, but I won't spoil it being its so brilliantly played out. Another one I also liked was the one with Orlando Bloom & Christina Ricci. Its sweet yet I didn't like Bloom's character at all in the film.

Overall, New York I Love You isn't as good as Paris but it still holds up to an extent. If you like Anthology films then this one is a must.

Rating - 57% - B-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Bullitt

I've been told by many film buffs that this film is a must see and one of the best films ever made. So with high Expectations, this is my review/thoughts on Bullitt.

Frank Bullitt is selected by Chalmers, a politician with ambition, to guard a Mafia informant. Bullitt's friend is shot and the witness is left at death's door by two hit men who seem to know exactly where the the witness was hiding. Bullitt begins a search for both the killer and the leak, but he must keep the witness alive long enough to make sure the killers return. Chalmers has no interest in the injured policeman or the killers, only in the hearings that will catapult him into the public eye and wants to shut down Bullitt's investigation.

This film is very good and for many reasons. The first is a well paced plot that works out well. Steve McQueen's character is a very interesting one who wants to do good rather than take the easy and greedy way out. Bullitt has a huge task on him which is almost impossible to achieve. Regardless, you do root for him as the story goes on. I also need to talk about the car chase in Bullitt which is what makes the film so infamous. Its a great car chase and really throws you properly into the story if you were not already hooked. I also really love the ending in the airport. Its a terrific ending.

Overall, Bullitt is underrated and deserves to be seen by many as soon as. Its a top recommendation.

Rating - 91% - A

[honeykid]

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Bullitt

I've been told by many film buffs that this film is a must see and one of the best films ever made.
Those people are full of crap.

[nebbit]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Bullitt


Overall, Bullitt is underrated and deserves to be seen by many as soon as. Its a top recommendation.

Rating - 91% - A
One of my favourites :yup: nice review :)

[MovieMad16]

Glad people liked my thoughts on Bullitt. Hopefully I'll see the film again in the near future.

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Australia

I'm not a huge fan of Baz Luhrmann, so I went into this with expectations of a mixed taste. So after the film ended, it seemed that nothing much had changed for me about Baz Luhrmann. And this film was proof of that.

In northern Australia at the beginning of World War II, an English aristocrat inherits a cattle station the size of Maryland. When English cattle barons plot to take her land, she reluctantly joins forces with a rough-hewn stock-man to drive 2,000 head of cattle across hundreds of miles of the country's most unforgiving land, only to still face the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by the Japanese forces that had attacked Pearl Harbor only months earlier.

This film has some good and bad qualities about it. The good is that I am glad to see a big budget film made in Australia by Australian talent. Jackman & Kidman have great chemistry and the romance is believable yet slightly cliche. Yet for this film, the cliche works very well. The locations are very much influenced by Gone With The Wind. The whole majority of the film owes somewhat of a debt to Gone With The Wind in terms of spectacle, atmosphere and cinematography to an extent.

The Bad parts are that in my eyes, The story goes on too long and can be quite weak in parts. The film's villain is in my eyes quite weak and not convincing as a character you really hate.

Overall, Australia is a good film but nothing spectacular or life changing to cinema. Baz is a director with talent and spectacle, but came off weak in storytelling. Do see it if your a passionate Aussie or like to see Hugh Jackman looking rough and hard.

Rating - 81% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Fish Tank

A low budget Brittish film which launched a Director into the mainstream...sort of. This is Fish Tank.

Mia, an aggressive fifteen-year-old girl, lives on an Essex estate with her tarty mother, Joanne, and precocious little sister Tyler. She has been thrown out of school and is awaiting admission to a referrals unit and spends her days aimlessly. She begins an uneasy friendship with Joanne's slick boyfriend, Connor, who encourages her one interest, dancing.

Comparing this to Andrea Arnold's Wuthering Heights, Fish Tank has some of the same qualities that Wuthering Heights had. Firstly is Andrea's use of sound and how it makes the film stand out. The second is the heavy use of realism which is golden to her films, especially with stories like this. You believe that this could be a real family in the world, that are poor and aren't a family that look out or care for one another. Mia played by Kate Jarvis is a character whilst flawed, you can tell wants to have a better life for herself. Then we are introduced to Michael Fassbender's character who is dating Mia's mum and you instantly come to like this character and the setup that he has entered in and how he can make it somewhat better.

The Camerawork is well done and again The sound in this film is fantastic. The story is believable and has a comfortable pace throughout. The Acting really works and carries the film to some extent.

Overall, Fish Tank is an underrated gem that deserves to be seen by many and its regarded as one of The best British Films of the decade.

Rating - 85% - A-

[nebbit]

Saw Fish Tank a while ago and really like it for its realism :yup: Thanks for the review :)

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Amazing Spider Man

The Reboot we can argue was too soon from Spidy 3, despite whatever state that film was in. But of course, everyone went to see it, including myself. Does it hold up to Raimi's films ?

Like most teenagers, Peter is trying to figure out who he is and how he got to be the person he is today. Peter is also finding his way with his first high school crush, Gwen Stacy, and together, they struggle with love, commitment, and secrets. As Peter discovers a mysterious briefcase that belonged to his father, he begins a quest to understand his parents' disappearance - leading him directly to Oscorp and the lab of Dr Curt Connors, his father's former partner. As Spider-Man is set on a collision course with Connors' alter-ego, The Lizard, Peter will make life-altering choices to use his powers and shape his destiny to become a hero.

This film is good in its own way and so many people are destined to compare this with the Spiderman film of 2002. Let's say what's better. Well, its more realistic and more dark world than the 2002 version was. You get a sense that in this New York City, there is actually danger lurking everywhere and anyone can be a victim. Andrew Garfield does a good job as Peter Parker and makes Spiderman his own in many ways. He's more closed up and keeps all of his pain inside him rather than sharing it with people. The highlight of the film to me was Emma Stone, who is great in everything she is in (So far) and in this film, there is no exception. Gwen Stacey is more interesting and more developed than Mary Jane in most cases. Rhys Ifans did well as The Lizard, despite the fact that the design of the Lizard I didn't like. I also really liked Martin Sheen as Uncle Ben.

The things I didn't like. Sally Field I didn't think was a strong Aunt May and just reminded me how good Rosemary Harris was in the role. I also didn't like the new design of the costume that much and felt there was too much blue on it. But that being said, Marc Webb made a good film despite studio interference.

Overall, The Amazing Spider Man is a solid reboot with good and bad qualities. Its a film worth seeing.

Rating - 85% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Mean Streets

Martin Scorsese's first film. And while it may not be his best, its still something to watch.

The future is set for Tony and Michael - owning a neighbour- hood bar and making deals in the mean streets of New York city's Little Italy. For Charlie, the future is less clearly defined. A small-time hood, he works for his uncle, making collections and reclaiming bad debts. He's probably too nice to succeed. In love with a woman his uncle disapproves of (because of her epilepsy) and a friend of her cousin, Johnny Boy, a near psychotic whose trouble-making threatens them all - he can't reconcile opposing values. A failed attempt to escape (to Brooklyn) moves them all a step closer to a bitter, almost preordained future.

This film is good, but unlike his later films, its not exactly a masterpiece. Firstly the characters enough are interesting and have an intriguing relationship with each other. Both are acted brilliantly by then newcomers Robert De Niro and Harvey Keitel. Both prove they are worth keeping an eye on with great performances and their ability to carry the story throughout the film. Amy Robinson is also very good and sort of makes her mark in the film too, even if its a very small one. However, most of the supporting cast aren't memorable to me.

The story also is kind of weak and it requires the two main characters to carry the story. Its more character driven than plot because it features a lot of conversations between De Niro & Keitel's characters as well as De Niro's situation. The Climax of the film is good and very dramatic but doesn't end entirely as you expect. I also like the camera work and the guellia film making style that Scorsese uses in his early works. Its cheap, but real at the same time.

Overall, Mean Streets is a solid debut. And while its no masterpiece, it proves that Scorsese at the time was a talent worth looking at.

Rating - 76% - B+

[Tyler1]

Thanks for the review! I didnt like Mean Streets as well. Probably going to give The Amazing Spiderman a miss because I wasn't a fan of the series anway.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Red Dragon

Could this be the only decent film Brett Ratner ever made ? A review of Red Dragon.

FBI Agent Will Graham has been called out of early retirement to catch a serial killer, known by authorities as "The Tooth Fairy". He asks for the help of his arch-nemesis, Dr. Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter, so that he can be able to catch "The Tooth Fairy" and bring him to justice. The only problem is that "The Tooth Fairy" is getting inside information about Graham and his family from none other than Dr. Lecter.

This film is very very good. It stands just below Silence Of The Lambs and tells a very well paced and plotted story. Will Graham is a different character than Clarence. He is more confident and more full of himself in many ways. Hannibal Lecter hates him as does Will, but they work together to stop The Tooth Fairy, a chilling serial killer played by Ralph Fiennes. Ralph is one of those actors who is so brilliant at doing villains, that he doesn't even need to try anymore. Anthony Hopkins is also brilliant as Dr. Lecter. Both menacing and funny at the same time. Edward Norton is also a terrific lead and holds the film well.

The Atmosphere of the film is very grim and realistic. You feel that this could happen anywhere to anyone. The situation is critical and the alert is high. Edward Norton's character is thrown into very exteme situations in which lives are on the line. However, also in this film we see some of the story through the eyes of Ralph Fiennes character which provides us a very interesting look at how serial killers act. Fiennes acts this part of the film brilliantly and just shows how good of an actor he really is.

Overall, Red Dragon is fantastic and arguably Brett Ratner's best film. Maybe his only good film.

Rating - 98% - A

[honeykid]

I'll say what I always say when I see this film mentioned. Go and find Manhunter. :yup:

[MovieMad16]

I haven't seen Manhunter yet, and I've been told mixed views on it. I'll see it one day.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Mars Attacks

Based off cards, Mars Attacks was one of Tim Burton's more "lighter" films shall we say.

It is a normal day for everyone, until the President of the United States announces Martians have been spotted circling Earth. The Martians land and a meeting is arranged, but not everything goes to plan, and the Martians seem to have other plans for Earth. Are they just misunderstood beings or do they really want to destroy all of humanity?

Mars Attacks is a fun funny film with an ensemble cast with character traits or titles. There is not many development in the film, but that isn't the goal here. The film overall is just having fun and telling a funny story. It involves CGI aliens which you could see in a B Sci Fi Movie as well as some funny cameos. The story works and you root for pretty much almost every character embroiled in the invasion. As the film goes on, the chaos builds, but its still funny to watch and you might not even care if the aliens win or not.

My one slight problem is that I remember it being so much better when it was younger, where as now watching it, It feels a lot more weaker.

Overall, Mars Attacks is a good film to watch. Funny effects, action scenes and acting, Its one to see on a Saturday night in.

Rating - 87% - A-

[The Rodent]

Mars Attacks is one of my favourites. Nice review.
I would have still rated it slightly higher though.

[nebbit]

Just didn't find Mars Attacks Funny :nope:

[The Rodent]

Awww... Nebs! I thought you had better taste :(


DAT DAT DAT DAT DAT DAT!!!!!

[honeykid]

Don't worry, nebs, neither did I.

[nebbit]

Awww... Nebs! I thought you had better taste :(


DAT DAT DAT DAT DAT DAT!!!!!
Just my sense of humour :yup: can be weird at times :yup:

[JayDee]

It certainly seems to be one of those films that really divides opinion. :yup: For the record I'm on the side of liking it. A large part of that is that so many actors I really like feature in it - Michael J Fox, Pierce Brosnan, Danny DeVito etc

[MovieMad16]

Thanks for your responces to my Mars Attacks review. I'm quite interested in the margin of opinion.

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Being Elmo: A Pupperteers Journey

I saw a handful of films at the Glasgow Film Festival as well as its youth section which I had a hand in co curating with several other people. I am very proud of this film because this was one I managed to put in as the closing gala of the youth section. It was a film that very much impressed.

The film traces Kevin Clash's rise from his modest beginnings in Baltimore to his current success as the man behind Elmo, one of the world's most recognizable and adored characters. Millions of children tune in daily to watch Elmo, yet when Kevin walks down the street he is not recognized. Pivotal to the film is the exploration of Jim Henson's meteoric rise, and Kevin's ultimate achievement of his goal to become part of the Henson family of puppeteers. In addition to puppeteering Elmo, Mr. Clash is arguably the creative force behind today's Sesame Street, producing, directing and traveling around the globe training other puppeteers. Includes interviews with Frank Oz, Rosie O'Donnell, Whoopi Goldberg, Carroll Spinney, Joan Ganz Cooney, Marty Robinson, Fran Brill, and Bill Barretta.

This is a very good documentary about someone with an unusual dream and his persuit to live it. Kevin Clash is a very interesting individual with a diverse talent of puppetry. It follows him from his early years to where he is now and tells the story of the people that got him there. We also see the amount of fans that love the character of Elmo, as well as other characters that weren't as popular. We also see are clips of Elmo's early years as well as other significant events on the Muppet calendar that Kevin Clash was apart of. The camera work is good and the use of music too as it sets up Kevin's position in the world and where he will be heading in the future.

Overall, Being Elmo is a solid documentary worth seeing if you can find it. Its the ultimate insight into one of America's best loved characters.

Rating - 93% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Dark Knight Rises

Going into this hoping that it wouldn't be better than The Dark Knight, seeing as that film is a classic in its own right. But never the less, I went in and granted I was not dissapointed at all.

Despite his tarnished reputation after the events of The Dark Knight, in which he took the rap for Dent's crimes, Batman feels compelled to intervene to assist the city and its police force which is struggling to cope with Bane's plans to destroy the city.

Before the film started, They showed a teaser trailer for the upcoming Man Of Steel. Honestly, I'm still on teetherhooks for that one. What it showed is Clark Kent as a young boy and then the final shot being An Extreme Wide Shot of Superman flying in the air. Just thought I share.

Anyway the film itself is epic. Truly the most epic of the three. Bruce Wayne is a broken man that is trying to run from the past, yet keep it by him at the same time. A whole host of new characters enter this universe with their own unique personalities. Christian Bale however gives a truly great performance as he always has as Bruce Wayne. I would love if The Academy recognized him for this performance as it is great. Michael Caine is also terrific as Alfred and probably the best he has been in a while. Anne Hathaway as Catwoman is fantastic and really gives the character a new spin. Yet she regains a lot of great qualities to the character, but adds something very new and fresh to it at the same time. Cillian Murphy does make a good return appearance playing a funny role.

Then there is Tom Hardy. Honestly, I thought he was better than The Joker. He was more intimidating, violent, a better backstory and more intelligent. I would love to put The Joker & Bane together to see who would win out of intelligence rather than violence. Hardy looked great in the role and proved a very worthy adversary to Batman.

Now this film isn't as good as The Dark Knight, but as good if not better than Batman Begins. Will it win Academy Awards ? I doubt it, but don't rule it out completely. I however want to talk about the ending because everyone wants to know how it ends. To me, it works and I do love the ending. Its a very Nolan ending, I'll say that (Without spoiling it).

Overall, The Dark Knight Rises is a great film with everyone you could want out of a superhero film. Strong plot, acting, stunts and cinematography. Its a recommend.

Rating - 99% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Richie Rich

I guess when the opportunity arose, I had to see this given The Nostalgia Critic's review of the film. So here is also my review of it.

The richest kid in the world, Richie Rich, has everything he wants, except companionship. While representing his father at a factory opening, he sees some kids playing baseball across the street. Richie wants to join in, but they don't want him around. When a plot to kill the Rich family is devised by Rich Industries' top executive, Laurence Van Dough, Richie must take over control of the company while searching for his lost parents with the help of some new friends.

This film is rather rubbish. There is just firstly no care for any of these characters whatsoever. You really just want the villain to win in some sneaky crude way just so the film can have some form of excitement. The main character is rubbish and has nothing you can really relate with him, apart from being rich which would only apply to rich people. There are some funny jokes, but not enough to keep the film level. None of the performances are memorable or perhaps that good. The only performance worth noting is perhaps John Larroquette's performance as the villain. Apart from that, nothing else or No One else in this film is interesting or captivating.

Because the character's aren't interesting, neither is the story. Its predictable and you sort of know where its going to go and what will happen because of the audience they intend to target, so there are no surprises sadly.

Overall, Richie Rich is a film you should miss unless extremely bored or bummed up. Its flat on characters, story and perhaps everything else about it.

Rating - 45% - C+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...How To Marry A Millionaire

A film I saw on TV and managed to stick with it till the end. Reading the premise, I had my hopes quite high for this film. That is until I saw the film.

Three New York models, Shatze, Pola and Loco set-up in an exclusive appartment with a plan: tired of cheap men and a lack of money they intend to use all their talents to trap and marry three millionaires. The trouble is that's it's not so easy to tell the rich men from the huxters and even when they can, is the money really worth it?

So the story is basic and is enjoying. You do like the characters and their world and what their goals are. The main problem is that its all too simple, and it never partically is funny. Its basically seeing the story with outdated humor that doesn't seem to work with today's audience. Never the less the acting and pacing of the story is good enough to work today and its never really a grim film. Its a happy film with twists that don't put the characters in sad or grim situations. And for me I enjoyed that. Its nice to see a film that doesn't really present a risk that won't damage the world or bring suffering to it in anyway.

Overall, How To Marry A Millionaire is a good film that deserves your attention.

Rating - 71% - B+

[nebbit]

I :love: this movie have forgotten how many times I have seen it :blush:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Citizen Kane

Widely regarded as The Greatest film of all time, Its time for me to review Citizen Kane.

A group of reporters who are trying to decipher the last word ever spoke by Charles Foster Kane, the millionaire newspaper tycoon: "Rosebud." The film begins with a news reel detailing Kane's life for the masses, and then from there, we are shown flashbacks from Kane's life. As the reporters investigate further, the viewers see a display of a fascinating man's rise to fame, and how he eventually fell off the "top of the world."

For a film so iconic and legendary in the film world, Citizen Kane is one of those films with your expectations really hit the scale. My expectations were high and after seeing this film, they were exceeded hugely. This film is a very well made film and tells a very interesting story about one man's rise and fall. Orson Welles gives a powerhouse performance that can rarely be topped. The character of Charles Foster Kane is a fascinating one and based off various real life figures. The camera shots were very new at the time and when reading the script, They had to be described very specifically for the crew to understand. I also like the pacing of the plot. It takes its time and doesn't rush too fast or drag too long. Its a perfect pace and keeps your interest throughout.

For a film that was so innovative of its time, I can see why many people look back and consider this an all time great. To me, its probably the grim story of it all. The fact that its based on a character that was never truly happy in his life and only had wealth to satisfy him. Its a sad thing to see but terrific cinema as well.

Overall, Citizen Kane is brilliant and a wonder to watch. If you have time, do use it to see this film.

Rating - 100% - A+

[nebbit]

Another great movie :yup:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace

If there was any film that I was going to get some sort of flack for liking, it would be this film. So before you read on, yes. I like this film.

The evil Trade Federation, led by Nute Gunray is planning to take over the peaceful world of Naboo. Jedi Knights Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi are sent to confront the leaders. But not everything goes to plan. The two Jedi escape, and along with their new Gungan friend, Jar Jar Binks head to Naboo to warn Queen Amidala, but droids have already started to capture Naboo and the Queen is not safe there. Eventually, they land on Tatooine, where they become friends with a young boy known as Anakin Skywalker. Qui-Gon is curious about the boy, and sees a bright future for him. The group must now find a way of getting to Coruscant and to finally solve this trade dispute, but there is someone else hiding in the shadows. Are the Sith really extinct? Is the Queen really who she says she is? And what's so special about this young boy?

So let me get the things I didn't like about the film out of the way first. Yes Jake Lloyd sucks in this film. Also, I hated the force explanation and some of the minor roles are badly acted too. No emotion in the lines and poor casting overall. However the things I liked.

I liked the story. Yeah, politics in the Star Wars world interests me. I like the fact that Obi Wan is a padawan learner in this one. I like Liam Nesson in the film and thinks he gives the best performance in the film. The stunt work is great, the special effects are great and the climax act in the film is on the edge of the seat stuff. It really works well.

I also didn't mind Jar Jar Binks as much. He is slightly annoying but not to the point of frustration. So yeah, I like this film. Can't wait for the hate and debate soon coming. I also really hate fans who tend to get so upset over this film to the point in which they make songs up about George Lucas raped childhoods and **** like that. Grow up. Its a film for christ sake.

Overall, Star Wars Episode I is a film I enjoy despite its flaws. If you haven't seen it, give it a watch.

Rating - 90% - A-

[The Rodent]

I liked Episode I when it came out. Saw it twice at the cinema, but over the years it's become a bit stale, and as I've grown older I've noticed the faults.
The midichlorians, Jar Jar, the Gungans, Jake Lloyd, Natalie Portman, it all adds up.

The finale lightsabre duel is awesome though. It's the first time we see what Jedi are really capable of.
It's enjoyable to an extent, but nothing great. I rated it 20% in my reviews.

In regards to the franchise, it's not the worse out of the 6 films, Episode II takes that trophy, I rated it just 5%.

[MovieMad16]

I liked Episode I when it came out. Saw it twice at the cinema, but over the years it's become a bit stale, and as I've grown older I've noticed the faults.
The midichlorians, Jar Jar, the Gungans, Jake Lloyd, Natalie Portman, it all adds up.

The finale lightsabre duel is awesome though. It's the first time we see what Jedi are really capable of.
It's enjoyable to an extent, but nothing great. I rated it 20% in my reviews.

In regards to the franchise, it's not the worse out of the 6 films, Episode II takes that trophy, I rated it just 5%.

I'll agree with you on the midichlorians, Jar Jar & Jake Lloyd. I didn't mind The Gungans and I thought Natalie Portman did well in the role. She was quite young when doing the role back in 1997.

The whole finale is fantastic. Really suspenseful and exciting stuff that no other franchise can do as well.

As for Episode II, well I'll talk about that in due time...

[nebbit]

Nice review but not a big fan of this one :nope:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Star Wars Episode II: Attack Of The Clones

The second in the ill fated prequel trilogy. Lets see if it holds up.

Ten years after the 'Phantom Menace' threatened the planet Naboo, Padmé Amidala is now a Senator representing her homeworld. A faction of political separatists, led by Count Dooku, attempts to assassinate her. There are not enough Jedi to defend the Republic against the threat, so Chancellor Palpatine enlists the aid of Jango Fett, who promises that his army of clones will handle the situation. Meanwhile, Obi-Wan Kenobi continues to train the young Jedi Anakin Skywalker, who fears that the Jedi code will forbid his growing romance with Amidala.

A lot of people argue and say this one is the worst of the prequels. But I think this stands as equal to the first. Firstly I like the romance build up despite the fact it can be rushed at some points and the dialogue in various scenes really doesn't work. But this romance really is crucial to the story and what it ultimately leads to is very interesting. I also really enjoy the fact that this film is building up to something horrifying or dark. Palpatine is gaining power in the galaxy and the world of Star Wars is fighting politically. With The Jedi, Padme and several others caught in the oncoming Clone Wars, the climax itself is a very entertaining one, but not quite as good as the first.

The things I didn't like were more or less the dialogue. Lucas can't really write good dialogue and it definitely shows. Also the comedy aspect with C3P0 and R2D2 wasn't really needed and killed the whole set piece in the factory.

Overall, Episode 2 was good fun and built a very intriguing bridge to the next film which would be the turning point of the saga.

Rating - 84% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Star Wars Episode III:Revenge Of The Sith

The final Star Wars film officially made in the saga. Does it hold up as a Dark picture ? Lets Review Episode III

It is three years after the Battle of Geonosis. Chancellor Palpatine has been kidnapped by General Grevious, the evil commander of the droid army and renegade Jedi Count Dooku. Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi and his former apprentice Anakin Skywalker comes to the rescue and Anakin kills Count Dooku and frees Chancellor Palpatine, but General Grevious escapes. On Coruscant, Anakin learns his secret wife, Padme Amidala is pregnant and Anakin begins having horrible nightmares of Padme dying giving birth. The Jedi Council assigns Anakin to spy on Chancellor Palpatine, as Anakin is forming a close friendship with the politician. As Obi-Wan and a platoon of clone troopers are sent to the planet Utapau to destroy General Grevious and put an end to the war. Anakin learns Chancellor Palpatine is the mysterious Sith Lord Darth Sidious and is the mastermind behind the war, and he converts Anakin to the Dark Side and Anakin becomes the evil Sith Lord known as Darth Vader, believing the powers of the Dark Side will save Padme from death. With Anakin turned to the Dark Side, could this mean the fall of the Republic and the end of the Jedi Order?

This film is a very dark and powerful film I'll admit. I really enjoyed the culmination of Palpatine's plan to rule the galaxy. Its absolutely fantastic and no one could ever had expected it. Ian McDiarmid is brilliant and is worthy of some sort of award recognition. Ewan Macgregor is also great as Obi Wan Kenobi. His role is full of emotion and wisdom as well as some nice humor too. Everyone else unfortunately doesn't really give anything stand out. Hayden Christensen is sadly decent, but a lot better than he was in Episode II. Natalie Portman was sadly disappointing, which is a shame because despite the corny dialogue, she was quite good in Episode II. Samuel L Jackson was ok, but in these films his role isn't that big or impressive.

I enjoy the atmosphere in this film a lot more than the previous ones. You sense a dark moody atmosphere in this one than you do in the others as things are more sad and serious in the universe. The CGI Effects are great, The Battle Scenes are well done and All Five Lightsaber battles are well done. The Anakin Obi Wan climax is on the edge of your seat stuff as well as The Yoda Palpatine Lightsaber fight.

Overall, Episode III is a good end to the saga and gives the Star Wars fans all the treats and desires they had been waiting for.

Rating - 85% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Lolita

After watching this film, I can happily say that this film could become ultimately one of my favourite films ever made. But is it the greatest film ?

Humbert Humbert, a divorced British professor of French literature, travels to small-town America for a teaching position. He allows himself to be swept into a relationship with Charlotte Haze, his widowed and sexually famished landlady, whom he marries in order that he might pursue the woman's 14-year-old flirtatious daughter, Lolita, with whom he has fallen hopelessly in love, but whose affections shall be thwarted by a devious trickster named Clare Quilty.

This film is amazing. Its one of those incredibly unmissable stories ever put on film. The characters are interesting, yet are flawed human beings overall. James Mason is a character driven by sexual desire and the fact that he loves Lolita, who is played fantastically by Sue Lyon in an amazing film performance. The character of Lolita is a very interesting. She behaves like a teenager, yet has this advantage from most teenagers in terms of beauty and intelligence. She is very beautiful and erotic at the same time. One scene with the feet taking off her shoes is just very very erotic and sexy.

The story itself is very much an Epic lite story. It takes place over a long amount of time and you feel that the characters have gone on a very long and life changing journey. I love also the performance by Peter Sellars which is very much similar to his performances coming up in Dr.Strangelove.

Overall, Lolita is an underrated classic with fantastic performances, cinematography and a story to hook you in from the start.

Rating - 100% - A+

[nebbit]

Just watched this again as I bought the blue ray Kubrick collection :yup:

[The Rodent]

Lolita's a very underrated movie. It was slammed when it was released and ok, it's controversial but definitely worth a high rating... I'd prob have it mid 90% region.
Nice review.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Manhatten

Being my first Woody Allen, I was expecting so many things from this film. So after watching it, there are a lot of things I want to discuss about not just this film, but about Woody Allen in general.

Isaac, 42, has divorced Jill. She is now living with another woman, Connie, and is writing a book in which she will reveal some very private points of their relationship. Isaac has a love affair with Tracy, 17, when he meets Mary, the mistress of his best friend Yale. Yale is already married to Emily.

There are so many things I like about this film. I will start off however with the setting. The way they shot and input New York into the story really works. I like how noirish and old fashioned it looks compared to how it looks now, and part of it is due to the fact that the film is shot in Black and White.

Then there is Woody Allen. He acts very well in this film and you do buy into his character and his situation. Many people might be put off with the idea that his character is dating a teenager, but there is something quite romantic about it. They have a connection and the teenage girl is interested in him and later falls in love with him. The actress Mariel Hemingway does a good job as does Meryl Streep and Diane Keaton as the other woman in Allen's life.

However I did have some issues with it. The story does tend to drag a bit and it leads to a bit of an anti climatic ending. But what works works really really well.

Overall, Manhatten is a very well made film and a good start to exploring Woody Allen's infamous filmography.

Rating - 94% - A

[honeykid]

Until he made Everyone Says I Love You, this was easily my favourite Allen film. I wish you well on your Allen odyssey. As a newcomer to Allen, you may not know that he really dislikes this film. In fact, he disliked it so much, that he offered to make another film, for free, if they agreed not to release Manhattan.

[MovieMad16]

I was aware of that yeah. I will go and see To Rome With Love when it comes out here in the UK in a few weeks. Plus he has Aspergers Syndrome, so there is something similar I can relate to.

[nebbit]

I didn't know Woody hated this movie :eek: I quite like it :goof:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Ghostbusters

A lot of hype when watching this film. Many people say its a comedy classic, but I have different opinions to share.

Three odd-ball scientists get kicked out of their cushy positions at a university in New York City where they studied the occult. They decide to set up shop in an old firehouse and become Ghostbusters, trapping pesky ghosts, spirits, haunts, and poltergeists for money. They wise-crack their way through the city, and stumble upon a gateway to another dimension, one which will release untold evil upon the city. The Ghostbusters are called on to save the Big Apple.

The film has a very entertaining premise which can draw in an audience. Bill Murray has a very different but unique screen prescience which works for this film. He is sarcastic yet likable. Dan Aykroyd & Harold Ramis are great supporting acts as well as the late introduction of Signourney Weaver, Ernie Hudson and Rick Moranis. Its a strong stellar cast that portray the world in a convincing way.

The story itself is very creative and well thought out, but at times, the story stops or drags along until we reach a crucial plot point. Also, not many of the jokes in my opinion are that funny to me and its mostly the story and Bill Murray that keep me interested in the rest of the film.

Some of the effects if not all of them are very good. The Ghost effects add a very creepy element to the story but don't get mixed up in the comedic element of things. The creation of The Marshmallow man at the end has become quite an iconic monster in film history, and I don't really find him scary, more in a way mouth watering.

Overall, Ghostbusters is a bit of a dissapointment for me. I didn't enjoy the film as much as It was hyped and I felt it was weak in several elements.

Rating - 71% - B+

[nebbit]

:up:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Gremlins

This is the first time I have seen this film and I've heard nothing but good things about it...so hopefully this will live up to the expectations.

Minature green monsters tear through the small town of Kingston Falls. Hijinks ensue as a mild-mannered bank teller releases these hideous loonies after gaining a new pet and violating two of three simple rules: No water (violated), no food after midnight (violated), and no bright light. Hilarious mayhem and destruction in a town straight out of Norman Rockwell. So, when your washing machine blows up or your TV goes on the fritz, before you call the repair man, turn on all the lights and look under all the beds. 'Cause you never can tell, there just might be a gremlin in your house.

The film itself has a very creative and original story to it. The Gremlin creatures are great villains who don't really want to take over the world at all. More like wanting to just have a huge party and to run riot on the city. The designs of the monsters are well done too. They are monstrous but also quite admirable too. The fun of the whole film is just watching them tear the city apart, and soon enough the main character has to then save the city with his love interest (Who I have to admit is very attractive.). There aren't really any stand out stars in this film, but the actors do perfectly fine in making us believe that they are in a terrifying ordeal.

Overall, Gremlins is an entertaining original Christmas film which combines scares and laughs in very clever scenarios.

Rating - 81% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Les Vacances De M Hulot

A film arguebly stated as a comedy classic as well as a silent film classic. But does it impress a modern fay young cinephile like myself ?

Monsieur Hulot goes on a holiday to a seaside resort, but accidents and misunderstandings follow him where ever he goes. The peace and quiet of the hotel guests don't last very long with Hulot around, because although his intensions are good, they always turn out catastrophically.

I'll start with what I liked. I enjoyed the atmosphere throughout the film and the way it presented itself to the viewer. I like the town and the resort that the main character stayed in during the film. It makes me want to drive to France and stay there, despite nothing to do. Despite being in French, I knew exactly what was going on and didn't have any problems keeping up with the story or the comedy.

The things I didn't like however outweigh the positive. The film is dead slow and takes a while to get to each plot point. Also the fact that the film is mostly silent, it does get dull after a while, and the music is the same piece played over and over again during cutaways which also gets repetitive and annoying after a while. I wished for more dialogue scenes and a clear idea of what was going on too.

Overall, Its not a terrible film but it is a little dated and could be a better film if the story was better written.

Rating - 73% - B+

[MovieMad16]

With The 50th Anniversay of James Bond today (Or yesterday by today's time of writing this post), I thought it would be a good idea to review all 22 Bond films before going into Skyfall on October 26th. So I start with the first.

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Dr No

The first ever Bond film released in cinemas in which it launched the star of Sean Connery to a worldwide audience as well as James Bond.

James Bond (007) is Britain's top agent and is on an exciting mission, to solve the mysterious murder of a fellow agent. The task sends him to Jamacia, where he joins forces with Quarrel and a loyal CIA agent, Felix Leiter. While dodging tarantulas, "fire breathing dragons" and a trio of assassins, known as the three blind mice. Bond meets up with the beautiful Honey Ryder and goes face to face with the evil Dr. No.

This film introduces the world of Bond for the first time and sets in motion various iconic symbols of Bond. The Gun Barrel Sequence & The Titles in general are good, but will in due course be clipped over the post by various other Bond films in the future. But it does get the mood of the story right from the early stages. We also get Bond's first scenes with Moneypenny & M which will be staples to the future films of the series, quickly establishing the type of relationships that Bond has with people in MI6. I also love the scene in which M demands that Bond trade guns to his infamous PPK pistol.

The Cars in this film aren't really that memorable or impressive. They're nice and fit the period easily but do not stand out as being iconic. I like the character of Quarrel played by John Kitzmiller as well as Felix, Bond's american counterpart who is played brilliantly by Jack Lord of Hawaii Five O fame (The Original). The Film is shot primarily round Jamaica and its beautiful to watch even 50 years later. The Cinematography is gorgeous and it makes you want to catch a plane and go there yourself.

There is only one real chase scene in the film and its not that good to be honest. Its mostly green screen and a stunt off the side of the road, but the great bit is that Sean gets a funny line at the end of it. The Villians are quite good but underdeveloped. Dr No is in many ways, a first draft of Blofield. He looks similar to him as well as the bionic hands add that element of super power to him, but ultimately he is just a dull villian with no purpose than to take over the world. The Henchmen aren't that good either.

Then there is the Bond Girl. She's pretty and of course has the infamous bikini shot in the film, but aside from that she isn't that well developed as a character nor stands out that well. The Humour is pretty good, but not as ferocious or full on as later bond films will be.

Another dissapointment was the end of the film. Its in many ways an anti climax and doesn't really end that well. Its rushed and sort of flies by very quickly.

But despite all the flaws, Overall Dr No is a superb watch and definitely the first film to recommend before watching the rest of the Bond films.

Rating - 99% - A

- I admire your luck, mister...
- Bond...James Bond

[The Rodent]

Loving it mate. Good catch!

Never been a Bond fan myself but liking the review!

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...To Rome With Love

I continue my Woody Allen quest with his latest release. And one that I think I'm going to enjoy talking about.

Set in the romantic city of Rome. The intertwining stories of a worker who wakes up to find himself a celebrity, an architect who takes a trip back to the street he lived on as a student, a young couple on their honeymoon, and a frustrated opera director who has a talent for discovering talented singers.

The stories themselves are very unique and stand out in different ways. The worker who becomes famous is very funny and amusing to watch. I remember cracking up at the trailer, and I pretty much did the same in the actual film as its a funny as well as honest look as someone embraces fame and learns how to deal with it. The story with Jesse Eisenberg, Alec Baldwin as well as Ellen Page is also a very clever one and it leaves the viewer up to decide what exactly is going on in the story. Baldwin's performance I think is both funny and poignant too. Eisenberg also has the potential to be a young Woody Allen in many ways too. Then there is the young couple story which I enjoyed, but I liked the character of Milly's side better than her husband Antonio with Penelope Cruz. She seemed like a sweet character who ends up getting embroiled into some sticky situations, where as Antonio's part is all to do with the idea that he wants to impress his family. Then there is Woody Allen's story which is a tad dissapointing but good to watch none the less. His story really in a way introduces the film and ends it in a way too.

The way Rome is shot is gorgeous and wonderful to watch too. You get a sense of normality as well as local culture rather than what americans or tourists think of Rome. It seems like a great place to live in too as there is so much to see and experience. Allen does a tremendous job at catching that as well as adding a little humour with his score too.

Overall, To Rome With Love is a little gem of a film that deserves more praise than it gets.

Rating - 85% - A-

[nebbit]

Nice review haven't read much about this movie :blush: must check it out :yup:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...From Russia With Love

We continue our James Bond Review season with the second installment of the franchise From Russia With Love.

James Bond 007 is on the search for a Russian decoding machine, known as Lektor. Bond needs to find this machine, before the evil SPECTRE organization discovers it first. Whilst being romantically linked with Russian girl, Tatiana Romanova, Bond sneaks his way around Istanbul, whilst each SPECTRE agent tries to pick him off, including the over powering Donald 'Red' Grant and ex-KGB agent Rosa Klebb who knows all the tricks in the books and even possesses an incredible poison tipped shoe!

We get our first ever Pre Title Sequence which is brief but never the less sets up the film's mood as well as what type of film we are going to be watching. As well as that, we are introduced to Desmond Llewelyn as the Second Q (Q was in Dr No by a different actor). He's not as comedic as he will be in future films, but we get the warmth and likeness that we are familiar with. We also see a brief return of Sylvia Trench in this film. Honestly, Sylvia should have been the Bond girl in this film compared to the actual Bond girl Romanova. The problem with her is that she's not a very interesting character and makes Sylvia Trench look a lot more better despite being on screen for over 2 minutes.

The Villians are a lot more sinister in this than Dr No. Out was the camp and in was a more dark story. The Villian is a blond assassin who is fixed on killing Bond. He is played by Robert Shaw in an excellent performance. There is also Rosa Klebb who is just incredibly sinister and wicked but brilliantly played Lotte Lenya. Two in my opinion, very underrated Bond villians.

The story in general goes in a different direction from Dr No. It puts more emphasis on the espionage side of it rather than the wacky 60s element of it. Its a more character driven, gritty story involving hidden identities, loyalty and murder. Yet its flawed and drags along a bit during the middle, but never the less an enjoying installment.

Overall, From Russia With Love is an entertaining follow up to Dr No, but isn't quite on that level of great bond films.

Rating - 85% - A-

- The mechanism is... Oh James, James... Will you make love to me all the time in England?
- Day and night. Go on about the mechanism.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Goldfinger

Continuing James Bond Season with another Bond Classic...Goldfinger.

Bond is back and his next mission takes him to Fort Knox, where Auric Goldfinger and his henchman are planning to raid Fort Knox and obliterate the world economy. To save the world once again, Bond will need to become friends with Goldfinger, dodge killer hats and avoid Goldfinger's personal pilot, the sexy Pussy Galore. She might not have feelings for Bond, but will 007 help her change her mind?

The Theme song element of Bond really comes in heavy in this film with Goldfinger being brilliantly sung by Shirley Bassey. Its a good song and helps set the mood of the film as do most Bond songs. The story itself is a mixture of camp and serious, but built more heavenly on the camp side of it. We are introduced to two excellent villians in the form of Goldfinger & Oddjob. Goldfinger is no villian that aspires to have world domination. His main goal is really to make money and nothing else. Oddjob is a deadly and powerful henchman who is loyal to Goldfinger. Both these villians are performed wonderfully and deserve to be remembered in the franchise for this long.

The Main bond girl is Pussy Galore. She has more personality than the other two do and has good chemistry with Bond too. But then there are The Masterson sisters who arguably are two of the most tragic characters in the history of James Bond. One is murdered in humiliating fashion, and the other in a brutal fashion, both by Oddjob. I would have loved to known their story and what led them to their deaths. We know a quarter of what happened, but not really any background to them. And I was so eager for more.

I also like the location of the film, taking place mostly in America. Its a beautiful setting which is very interesting and more local than most Bond films.

Overall, Goldfinger is an excellent entry in the franchise with so many memorable moments in the film which make it stand out.

Rating - 90% - A-

- You expect me to talk ?
- No Mr Bond, I expect you to die.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Thunderball

Continuing my James Bond season with another classic Bond film but for many different reasons...Thunderball

James Bond continues on his fourth mission, with his aim to recover two stolen warheads. They have been taken by the evil SPECTRE organisation. The world is held hostage and Bond heads to Nassau. Here, he meets the beautiful Domino and is forced into a thrilling confrontation with SPECTRE agent Emilio Largo, on board his boat, the Disco Volante. Will 007 prevent the killing of millions of innocent victims?

I really enjoyed this one. Its got a great plot which easily separates it from the previous bond films. I like the aquatic theme of the story which makes Thunderball stand out as a Bond film. The Story is more intriguing and mysterious than the other ones and puts Bond in a more dangerous situation.

The Villain is a dissapointment to me. He doesn't really have a personality and is more of a early draft version of Blofield given by his looks. His goal is disappointing and overall doesn't come off as memorable except for the eyepatch. However the Bond Girl is amazing. Firstly, she's beautiful and one of the most beautiful Bond girls in the entire franchise. And secondly she has a great backstory and a purpose in the film. I also like her name Domino. Really bouncy name that fits in the world of James Bond.

The Theme Song is arguably one of the best in James Bond. Tom Jones's voice is golden and works to set up the film as does most Theme Songs do. The Score in this film is also terrific, especially near the end of the film. The Film's climax underwater is amazing and brings real suspense and excitement near the end.

Overall, Thunderball is up there as one of the best Bond films. Great story, Bond Girl, Score and wonderful fun.

Rating - 95% - A

- What exactly do you do ?
- Oh, I travel... a sort of licensed troubleshooter.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...You Only Live Twice

Continuing The James Bond season with You Only Live Twice.

When an American space capsule is swallowed up by what they believe to be a Russian spaceship, World War 3 nearly breaks out. The British Government, however, suspect that other powers are at work as the space craft went down near Japan. S.P.E.C.T.R.E. is the force behind the theft, as James Bond discovers, but its motives are far from clear, and he must first find out where the captured space capsule is held before America and Russia initiate another world war.

The first thing I enjoyed about this entry was the location. Japan does well for a Bond location and really puts 007 in a new surrounding. I love the culture and The Japanese talent involved on and off screen very much. Other stuff I loved was the set design particular the lair at the climax of the film which I thought was really well done. Other stuff I loved was the story and the idea of Bond faking his death to get close to SPECTRE and of course the marvellous iconic performance of Donald Pleasence as Blofeld. A very creepy yet well done role which has really echoed over the decades.

The dissapointment would probably be The Bond girls. They're not that interesting and really don't serve no purpose to the film whatsoever. In fact they pretty much change The Bond Girl midway through the film and it makes barely a difference to the story.

Overall, You Only Live Twice is a good solid Bond Film with some unique moments as well as good perfromances.

Rating - 85% - A-

-James Bond. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Ernst Stavro Blofeld. They told me you were assassinated in Hong Kong.
-Yes, this is my second life.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...On Her Majesty's Secret Service

We are given a New Bond for a new film in The James Bond Season. On Her Majesty's Secret Service.

George Lazenby steps into the role of James Bond and is sent on his first mission. For help with Draco, he must becomes very close friends with her daughter, Tracy, and heads off to hunt down Ernst Stavro Blofeld one more time. This takes him to Switzerland, where he must pose as Sir Hilary Bray to find out the secret plan of Blofeld. The facility is covered with Blofeld's guards and well as his hench-woman, Irma Bunt. What has Blofeld got in mind this time? Bond keep up this act for much longer? and are ALL Bond girls safe?

On Her Majesty's Secret Service was a tricky one to review given the fact its a new bond in the show. But never the less, the film holds up. George Lazenby is pretty good as Bond, but alot of fans find it hard to eclipse The previous bond. He does well in the fight scenes, in fact better than well as they were quite brutal scenes to watch. Lazenby works better as his disguise than he does as Bond which is a very big problem which can be noticed.

The Bond Girl Tracey played by Diana Rigg is a very fascinating character. She has her own personality and stands on her own two feet rather than rely on Bond. The romance is also very good and one of the best in the series and Diana Rigg really does have some beautiful costumes in some scenes.

Terry Savalas does a different Blofeld to the previous one. He is more physically built and less creepy on screen. His assistant is also very good too and their plan is the most bizzare of the three. His performance isn't as memorable though as Donalds.

Overall, OHHSS is a strong Bond film with a good Story, good Bond girl and passable Bond. Lazenby does well in the role but one film was not enough.

Rating - 94% - A

- My apologies for the way you were brought here. I wasn't sure you'd accept a *formal* invitation.
- There's always something formal about the point of a pistol.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Diamonds Are Forever

We continue Bond Season with not only reviewing Diamonds Are Forever, but The last bond film to feature Sean Connery as 007 as well as his tenure in a whole.

James Bond's mission is to find out who has been smuggling diamonds, which are not re-appearing. He adopts another identity in the form of Peter Franks. He joins up with Tiffany Case, and acts as if he is smuggling the diamonds, but everyone is hungry for these diamonds. He also has to avoid Mr. Wint and Mr. Kidd, the dangerous couple who does not leave anyone in their way. Ernst Stavro Blofeld isn't out of the question. He may have changed his looks, but is he linked with the heist? And if he is, can Bond finally defeat his ultimate enemy.

There isn't really much good to say about this film. Its one of the weaker Bond films of the series. You have a story which really isn't that interesting or well structured. The worst Blofeld of the three and Sean Connery who shows his age quite terribly and with distraction. The Good things are that I liked the Bond Girl and the twist they implemented as well as the two assassins who are beyond creepy and one of the best villains in the entire series. Really will strike nightmares into your dreams.

Sean Connery really took the character of Bond and made it his own. He was charming, heroic, cold and knew how to woo the ladies. He laid the groundwork for Bond for the future adaptions to model after. Sean would later do Bond again in Never Say Never Again (Thunderball remake) and since then has been in semi retired. Never the less, to many people he IS James Bond.

Overall Diamonds Are Forever is a weak way to go out but never the less has some good moments in the film to enjoy.

Rating - 76% - B+

- Hi. I'm Plenty
- But Of course you are

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Live And Let Die

Be Prepared as Roger Moore's twelve year stint as James Bond begins with Live and Let Die.

Several British agents have been murdered and James Bond is sent to New Orleans, to investigate these mysterious deaths. Mr. Big comes to his knowledge, who is self-producing heroin. Along his journeys he meets Tee Hee who has a claw for a hand, Baron Samedi the voodoo master and Solitaire and her tarot cards. Bond must travel deep inside New Orleans, through marshy grass and on water as he completes his mission.

First thing to say is that I love the atmosphere and theme to this film. Its a different direction to most James Bond films in the past. The idea of Voodoo and The Cult being thrown into The James Bond world is unusual yet pretty scary at times. Positives of the film are firstly Roger Moore. He starts off very well as Bond. He comes off more posh and gentlemen like than Connery and really is a charmer more, yet retains that deadly sense to the character. The Bond villians in this are a bit cheesy but still very scary at points.

The Bond girl is interesting and her character is original, but comes off a bit unimpressive than previous Bond girls. That is to say she is well acted in the part. The story works for the film and the time period and of course the inclusion of JW Pepper is also terrific well done. I enjoyed his brief stint on the show. It may be a bit insulting and out of date now, but still worth a chuckle.

Overall, Live & Let Die is a strong start to Roger Moore's run and still holds up today.

Rating - 90% - A-

- Such A delicate touch
- Sheer magnetism darling

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Man With The Golden Gun

We next come across arguably one of the most underrated of the series. The Man With The Golden Gun.

Scaramanga is a hit-man who charges a million dollars per job. He becomes linked to the death of a scientist working on a powerful solar cell, and James Bond is called in to investigate. As he tracks down Scaramanga, he realises that he is highly respected by the killer, but will this prove to be an advantage in the final showdown?

The highlight of this film is really the villain. Christopher Lee is brilliant as Scaramnaga and really is the equal of Bond in so many ways. His skill with a gun is excellent and really puts Bond in some dangerous situations. The Henchman also is very interesting and crafty too. You wouldn't think a midget would be that scary but you'd be wrong. Also, I really love the Bond girl in this. Despite being ditzy and air headed, she's still a great character and worth the time to invest in.

We also see the return of JW Pepper in a very excellent car chase. My one problem is that I wanted to see more of him given that he is quite a funny character. The car chase they are involved in is pretty excellent especially with the stunt over the river.

Overall, The Man With The Golden Gun is another strong Bond film with a clever plot, good Bond girl & Villian and a good performance by Roger Moore.

Rating - 92% - A

-Who'd want to put a contract on me?
-Jealous husbands! Outraged chefs! Humiliated tailors! The list is endless!

[honeykid]

That's the second best Bond film, IMO. After The Spy Who Loved Me, of course.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Memento

Taking a break from reviewing Bond films to try something else. Christopher Nolan anyone ?

Memento chronicles two separate stories of Leonard, an ex-insurance investigator who can no longer build new memories, as he attempts to find the murderer of his wife, which is the last thing he remembers. One story line moves forward in time while the other tells the story backwards revealing more each time.

So much to talk about this film. I'll start with Guy Pearce and his character. Its a very mysterious role he plays and he does so very well. His acting is brilliant and with the combination of genius cinematography and great storytelling, his character is very memorable. The Script is well done and Nolan clearly threw his all into making this a film designed to change the game. He knows how to take the tools of story and craft something completely new and exciting and with Memento, he does exactly that. Based off a short story which sounds brilliant, Nolan really puts his stamp on the story and makes a film which is way ahead of its time.

Overall, Memento is an amazing piece of work which puts Nolan on the map and sets his career off for many films to come.

Rating - 100% - A+

[MovieMad16]

That's the second best Bond film, IMO. After The Spy Who Loved Me, of course.

I'll get to The Spy Who Loved Me next :D

[nebbit]

Not a big fan of Moore as Bond :nope:

[cinemaafficionado]

Not a big fan of Moore as Bond :nope:

We are on the same page nebs.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Spy Who Loved Me

Continuing James Bond Season with The Spy Who Loved Me.

James Bond is back again and his new mission is to find out how a Royal Navy Polaris submarine holding sixteen nuclear warheads simply disappears whilst on patrol. Bond joins Major Anya Amasova and takes on a a web-handed mastermind, known as Karl Stromberg, as well as his henchman Jaws, who has a mouthful of metal teeth. Bond must track down the location of the missing submarine before the warheads are fired.

So many things that are good about this film. Firstly is an interesting plot with two agents that are likable in their own ways. Anya is a terrific Bond girl with her own personality and charm to her that only Bond can match. Then there is arguably the most famous henchmen in the series Jaws. Such a chilling yet camp villian that is excellent to watch. The Main villain however is a dissapointment and is quite weak as well as his plan. It feels like a been there done that performance.

The relationship between Bond & Anya is interesting. Both characters are similar yet also quite different. She is someone who has suffered heartbreak at the cause of Bond and their relationship goes through twists and turns before reaching a good conclusion. This is also the first appearance Of Frederick Grey who is sort of like M but less meaningful.

Overall, The Spy Who Loved Me is a great film with a good plot, bond girl, henchmen as well as memorable scenes and quotes.

Rating - 94% - A

- Bond, What do you think your doing ?
- Keeping The British End up Sir.

[honeykid]

Glad you liked it, MM. Shame you rate Dr. No and Thunderball more, as they're the two worst Bond films I've seen. There again, I'm not a fan, so maybe what it is I don't like about Bond is a big part of what you do? Plus, they're both Connery. I hate Connery.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Killer Elite

My dad rented this film and so I thought I would give this a watch myself. Is Killer Elite an underrated success or an overrated piece of crap ? Time to find out.

Based on a true story, Killer Elite pits two of the worlds' most elite operatives - Danny, an ex-special ops agent (Jason Statham) and Hunter, his longtime mentor (Robert De Niro) - against the cunning leader of a secret military society ('Clive Owen' ). Covering the globe from Australia to Paris, London and the Middle East, Danny and Hunter are plunged into a highly dangerous game of cat and mouse - where the predators become the prey.

The film itself has a very enjoyable story. Statham is believable as the agent trying to save his partner. Statham always performs well in action films and this is no exception. Clive Owen also does a very good villain put in very difficult situations as well as being a cold brutal killer looking to defend himself from Statham's actions. De Niro's performance is also very good, but however is not in it very much and his role is very limited in the film.

The story is based on true events and is a very entertaining plot. The action sequences are well done and the car chases are very exciting and keep you pretty much on the edge of your seat. The problem is that its a standard action film with not much going for it other than the stars attached.

Overall, Killer Elite is a well made film but fails to stand out above any other Action films.

Rating - 70% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Moonraker

Continuing James Bond Season with the most outlandish of the series...Moonraker.

James Bond is back for another mission and this time, he is blasting off into space. A spaceship traveling through space is mysteriously hi-jacked and Bond must work quickly to find out who was behind it all. He starts with the rockets creators, Drax Industries and the man behind the organisation, Hugo Drax. On his journey he ends up meeting Dr. Holly Goodhead and encounters the metal-toothed Jaws once again.

The plot starts off ok, but does go rather over the top near the end, but in a way kind of dark seeing as the villain is set out to destroy all life on Earth. Its pretty dark but new at the same time. Roger Moore does a good enough job as Bond and the Bond Girl is good too. The villain while good does have its flaws, but is very much a psychopath with his own desire to destroy the world and rule it again after a fresh start. Jaws also returns and they play the comedic element more by bringing in a girlfriend for him.

The stunts are really minimum in this film as is the car chases. But never the less, the plot sucks you in and despite how chessy and over the top it is, its still great fun to watch and the climax sequence is actually quite thrilling.

Overall, Moonraker is a good entry for Bond, but does go slightly over the top with its plot and villain.

Rating - 81% - A-

- My God, what's Bond doing?
- I think he's attempting re-entry, sir.

[honeykid]

Silly film, but I've always loved that final line. :D

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Nancy Drew

Nancy Drew, one of America's most beloved literary heroes. She's had many screen adaptions over the years and this was the most recent one. Is it any good ?

Nancy Drew accompanies her father on a business trip to Los Angeles California. Nancy booked an abandoned house for them to stay in hiding the mystery of a movie star's murder from her father as a promise that she would stay out of trouble and be normal. Fitting into high school as a normal teen turns out to be harder than it sounds, for Nancy Drew. She soon befriends a younger boy and determines that the sleuthing world is where she belongs. While snooping through the attic, she finds a letter from the Hollywood star, Dehlia Draycott, written to someone named 'Z' which leads Nancy on a wild goose chase.

This film is OK but has a lot of problems and things I don't like about it. I'll start with the good stuff though. I like Emma Roberts as Nancy Drew. Granted she isn't perfect and at times a bit of a goody two shoes, but she does get the spirit of the character right as well as the ability to solve a mystery. The rest of the film is meh to me. The mystery is pretty interesting, but isn't dark enough to really grab my attention. It only gets good near the end. Nancy's friends are either bland or annoying and mostly they are both. I would have preferred someone as keen or more keen than Nancy to solve the case. Instead she is surrounded by people who are reluctant to face danger like her.

Overall, Nancy Drew is good for a Nancy Drew fan but a bit of a bore overall and isn't really for fans of detective mystery movies.

Rating - 55% - B-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...For Your Eyes Only

Continuing James Bond Season with the latest in The Roger Moore tenure...For Your Eyes Only.

After disposing of a familiar looking face, Bond is sent to recover a communication device, known as an ATAC, which went down with a British Spy ship as it sunk. Bond must hurry though, as the Russians are also out for this device. On his travels, he also meets Melina Havelock, whose parents were brutally murdered. Bond also encounters both Aristotle Kristatos and Milos Colombo. Each of them are accusing the other of having links with with the Russian's. Bond must team up with Melina, solve who the true ally is and find the ATAC before it's too late.

The story in this film is more grounded than Moonraker. Director John Glen opted for a more realistic take of Bond after the previous installment. The story is a bit more exotic and mysterious and focuses more on The Bond Girl's story. I really like the bond girl in this. She's very beautiful and has her own vendetta against the villain which makes it all the more interesting. The villian in this film however is a bit dissapointing. Shame because he is played by a fantastic actor in the form of Julian Glover. Glover is an amazing actor and its a shame that his villain didn't stand out like other ones.

The best sequence in For Your Eyes Only is by far the mountain sequence. Its an incredible sequence that kept me on the edge of my seat. Its a very gripping sequence and up there as one of the best Bond sequences.

Overall, For Your Eyes Only is a excellent change of direction for Bond and keeps the franchise fresh and exciting for new generations.

Rating - 85% - A-

- Forgive me Father, for I have sinned
- That's putting it mildly, 007

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Octopussy

Continuing James Bond Season (In a more rapid pace might I add) with Octopussy, Roger Moore's penultimate role as Bond.

James Bond's next mission sends him to the circus. A British agent was murdered and found holding onto a priceless Faberge egg. Kamal Kahn buys the egg at an auction, but Bond becomes suspicious when Kahn meets up with Russian General, Orlov. Bond soon finds out that Kahn's and Orlov's plan is to blow a nuclear device in an American Air Force Base. Bond teams up with a circus group, which are headed by the beautiful Octopussy, who is also close friend of Kahn. Will Bond be quick enough, before World War III begins?

This is a personal favourite of mine. I like the locations firstly as It adds a more exotic feel to Bond that we haven't seen before. The bond girl is excellent and underrated in my opinion. Very strong willed and independent and not afraid of any danger coming across her. The villains are also very good. Kamal Khan is excellently acted and a real adversary of Bond. Gobinda is also a very good henchmen and quite scary at points. The film's story is exciting enough to invest me further in and the climax really is thrilling with Bond on top of a plane in mid flight.

There isn't much negative about it. I enjoyed Q being a bit more involved in the story and the girl fighting group near the end was also very well done. The car chase also was pretty good. Not the best but not one to forget either.

Overall, Octopussy is an underrated gem of the Bond Franchise and works well with other Moore entries and is probably the best of Moore's entries. Don't skip this one.

Rating - 95% - A

- You seem to have this nasty habit of surviving.
- You know what they say about the fittest.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...A View To A Kill

Roger Moore's final outing at Bond is actually one of his best ones in A View To A Kill.

James Bond has one more mission. Bond returns from his travels in the USSR with a computer chip. This chip is capable of withstanding a nuclear electromagnetic pulse that would otherwise destroy a normal chip. The chip was created by Zorin Industries, and Bond heads off to investigate its owner, Max Zorin. Zorin may only seem like a innocent guilty man, but is really planning to set off an earthquake in San Andreas which will wipe out all of Silicon Valley. As well as Zorin, Bond must also tackle May Day and equally menacing companion of Zorin, whilst dragging Stacy Sutton along for the ride.

For Roger Moore's final film, there is a mixture of realism and cheese in the story, but its balanced pretty well. First thing that is good are the villains. Christopher Walkin is brilliant as Max Zorin and May Day is also a memorable Bond henchmen. Moore obviously shows his age in his film like Connery in Diamonds Are Forever. He does however do just well enough to make us still convinced that he is 007. The Bond girl however is quite disappointing. She doesn't stand out as well as other girls and comes off overall as really a waste of time.

The Stunt at the end on The bridge is well done and really intense. Bond could have easily died but if that happened, it would be a dark ending to the series. I also loved the fact that Zorin was so psychopathic in this film. He comes across really unhinged and terrifying in this film and remains one of Bond's best adversary's.

Overall, A View To A Kill is a good end to Moore's run as Bond and really sets up the next guy to come in and shake up the Franchise once more.

Rating - 85% - A-

- Where's the fire?
- In your rear end!

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Living Daylights

A new actor and a new take on James Bond begins in 1987 with The Living Daylights.

James Bond 007's mission is to firstly, organise the defection of a top Soviet general. When the general is re-captured, Bond heads off to find why an ally of General Koskov was sent to murder him. Bond's mission continues to take him to Afghanistan, where he must confront an arms dealer known as Brad Whitaker. Everything eventually reveals its self to Bond.

I'll start with what I don't like and that is the theme song. Probably the worst song ever to be in Bond. Its dull and does not fit the film whatsoever. The film however is very good and a strong debut for Timothy Dalton's Bond. What I like about Dalton is that he has a sense of edge and safety about him unlike the other Bonds. I trust him and know him more than the other Bonds. The Bond girl is also good. She's vulnerable and in a world she doesn't understand very well. The Villains on the other hand are just OK. They aren't as memorable or exciting as previous villains, but never the less are good villains to hold the film up with.

The story itself is also very new to the franchise. You have the idea of Bond joining forces with Arab rebels and fighting in the middle east. That itself is a cool idea and puts Bond in a new situation, which is exciting and intriguing. John Glen is still a very good director and continues to push his realistic style of Bond onto the audiences which does work, along with that pinch of camp which you can't really notice. I guess its because it was done in the 80s and now looking back looks a bit dated. But dated in a good way.

Overall, The Living Daylights is a good introductory to Dalton. He's a good Bond with a good story and strong supporting cast.

Rating - 87% - A-

- Exercise Control, 007 here. I'll report in an hour.
- Won't you join me?
- Better make that two.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Licence To Kill

Bond leaves the 80s in high style as Bond goes into a darker world with Licence To Kill.

James Bond is on possibly his most brutal mission yet. Bond's good friend, Felix Leiter, is left near to death, by drug baron Franz Sanchez. Bond sets off on the hunt for Sanchez, but not everyone is happy. MI6 does not feel Sanchez is their problem and strips Bond of his license to kill. Bond is now more dangerous than ever. Bond gains the aide of one of Leiter friends, known as Pam Bouvier and sneaks his way into the drug factories, which Sanchez owns. Will Bond be able to keep his identity secret, or will Sanchez see Bond's true intentions?

This film really is more edgier than previous other Bond films. With drugs thrown into the plot and a violent act on an established bond character, Bond really does go into darker places in this film. But its still very much a bond film in spirit. Dalton is still terrific and by far my favorite bond of the series. The Bond Villain is a more realistic villain and more grounded than other ones. Still very memorable and his henchmen played by Benecio Del Toro is very sinister and realistic. The bond girls are very good to my surprise. Carey Lowell as Pam is a strong and underrated bond girl who could be in many ways Bond's equal, or at least as tough as Bond. Talisa Soto as Lupe is also very good and eager to help overthrow the villain in this case.

What I love about this film is just really how 80s it all is. Techno music, Bloody and intence action sequences, excellent cinematography as well as 80s fashion to it too. It really brings Bond into the 80s if it hasn't already. Dalton is also a good part of Bond involving. Sadly this is his last film to my dissapointment. Its a shame because I reckon many fans would have loved to have seen a third Bond outing in 1991 or 1992 and maybe even a fourth before handing it over to Brosnam. Still that is just fantasy talk.

Overall, Licence To Kill is a very underrated and well done Bond film and is the last in a while as the franchise went on hiatus. But it would return, with a new look and a new attitude.

Rating - 94% - A

- This is no place for you, Q. Go home.
- Oh, don't be an idiot, 007. I know exactly what you're up to, and quite frankly, you're going to need my help. Remember, if it hadn't been for Q Branch, you'd have been dead long ago.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Lawless

Saw this film a while ago and now I think my thoughts are ready to be shown. Is it a good flick ?

The three Bondurant brothers run a bootlegging operation during the depression, up in the mountains of Franklin County, Virginia. Crooked Special Deputy Charles Rakes is after a share of the brothers' profits. Compounding their troubles, the local competition is elbowing in on their activities. Forrest's boisterous defiance and Cricket's knack for moonshine production help the brothers gain a local monopoly. When Forrest is wounded as tension with Rakes escalates, Jack, initially the timid one, must prove his worth against gangster Floyd Banner's mob, and we see him metamorphose into a cocky exhibitionist in his attempts to woo the off-limits preacher's daughter, Bertha.

This film is a solid period film. I really loved the casting in this film, in particular Tom Hardy who has just gone from strength to strength in his career and this film is another terrific performance for him. I doubt it will win awards, but it is still terrific and creates a likable but sadistic character none the less. Shia LaBoeuf I also think does a really good job as the main character, who has to make alot of sacrifices and tough decisions to ensure not just the survival of himself, but his business too. Guy Pearce also plays one of the best villains I have seen in a long time. Really sadistic and really cruel to several characters in the film and his performance really does work. Other great performances include Gary Oldman, Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Mia Wasikowska and Dane DeHaan who all make the film well performed.

I love the production design on the film as it does look like a very realistic town in the 1920s. Several sets really are brilliant and well designed. The cinematography also is stunning as well as the dialogue and camera angles. Its a very well produced film. It will admit however it can be slow at times but never the less isn't boring and still holds up well.

Overall, Lawless is a good flick that deserves to be seen and watched.

Rating - 81% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Sapphires

The Sapphires tells the story of four young indigenous women who become a singing group and tour across Vietnam to sing for troops during the Vietnam War. It’s an Australian film based on the 2005 stage play which was critically well received. And this film is set to follow in its path. Following a warm response in Cannes this year, the film has been released in several parts of the world including Australia. Now it has recently arrived in the UK and it’s a very well made film with a lot of heart and soul.

The performances to start off are very good. Chris O Dowd plays Dave, who discovers them in what would call a very intimidating situation and decides to form them as a band and get them a gig in Vietnam. O Dowd performs the role well and really gives the character likability as well as a few laughs. Deborah Mailman plays Gail, the oldest and leader of the three sisters who is a very domineering, but caring character to her younger sisters. Her younger sisters Julie & Cynthia (Played by Jessica Mauboy & Miranda Tapsell) see this as an opportunity for fame and a better life for what they have back at home. They are joined by cousin Kay (Shari Sebbens) in which there is a bit of bad blood between her and Gail which is brilliantly revealed during an intense flashback. Some supporting performances also make the film stand up well.

But what really give the film spirit are the music and the feel good factor it lets out. The songs are well performed and really capture the mood of the 60s. The third act of the film is also quite a moving and emotional piece in the film which sees the sisters in a scary situation and lets out their raw emotional which is very well performed. It also tackles the equal rights movement in Australia, but very vaguely unlike The Help. You get a mention of Martin Luther King briefly, and yet that is all that is needed to keep the story hooked and exciting as well as emotionally invested in what is going on.

To sum it up, The Sapphires is a real underrated gem this year with a feel good factor to it as well as the potential for some surprise awards nominations, most likely The Golden Globes or The Baftas.

Rating - 91% - A

[The Rodent]

Never been a fan of O'Dowd but might have to catch this one now. Thanks for the review matey!

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Master

If there is anyone right now in Cinema that has a perfect track record, it would be Paul Thomas Anderson. From Hard Eight to There Will Be Blood, his films have become modern masterpieces and have cemented him as one of Hollywood's most talented filmmakers alive today. Now, his new film The Master has arrived in the UK hoping to repeat the success and acclaim it has already received in America.

The story is focused on two characters. Joaquin Phoenix plays Freddie Quell, a broken shell of a man who comes across Lancaster Dodd played by Phillip Seymour Hoffman, who leads a religious movement known as "The Cause". Amy Adams plays Lancaster's wife and plays an important role that takes the story in an interesting direction. All three of these performances are awards worthy for many different reasons. Phoenix for just how psychotic, angry and broken he is, Hoffman for how powerful he comes across on screen as well as his grand majestic prescience throughout the film. And Adams comes across as subtle and sneaky, but not in an obvious way that most other characters do so.

Many people will leave this film with theories on what it was about and here is mine, which is quite surprising. Freddie Quell starts the film broken and sex obsessed and when he finds "The Cause", they lead him on a road of recovery in some way. I won't say if its complete recovery, but as the film progresses he becomes more stable and aware of his surroundings than he started off as. But on screen, "The Cause" does come across bizarre and somewhat alien like to the common day eyes. But at the end of the film, it left me wondering whether "The Cause" really intended to harm anyone, or whether it truly was looking to save lost souls from darkness. The Cinematography is impressive as well as the camera angles that help make this film original and suspenseful. The score also is excellent and Jonny Greenwood continues to prove himself over and over again with each new project he is given.

Overall, The Master is definitely a film that deserves to be seen. If you haven't seen any of Paul Thomas Anderson's work, you should firstly see this film and go back and watch some of his earlier material as the influences of Robert Altman & Stanley Kubrick are very easy to see, especially with films like Magnolia & There Will Be Blood.

Rating - 95% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Goldeneye

Continuing James Bond Season with Pierce Brosnan's first 007 film...Goldeneye.

When a deadly satellite weapon system falls into the wrong hands, only Agent 007 can save the world from certain disaster. Armed with his license to kill, Bond races to Russia in search of the stolen access codes for "Goldeneye," an awesome space weapon that can fire a devastating electromagnetic pulse toward Earth. But 007 is up against an enemy who anticipates his every move: a mastermind motivated by years of simmering hatred. Bond also squares off against Xenia Onatopp, an assassin who uses pleasure as her ultimate weapon.

I'll say this about Goldeneye. I remember this film being a lot better than seeing this years ago. Let me say the things I liked about it. Brosnan is still a terrific Bond and captures the charm and charisma of the character very well, but lacks the coldness and seriousness of Bond. But no matter as his performance is still terrific. You have pretty much Bond rebranded and redone all over with a fresh take. You have a new M in the form of Judi Dench who takes the role and does something fresh with it. You have an intriguing plot as well as villain in the form of Sean Bean who is excellent in the part.

The Bond Girl was pretty good too, but not as memorable as past ones. She lacked sex appeal in my opinion and its probably because she wore work very conservative dull clothing throughout the film until the third act, so that plays to the dissapointment. However, supporting characters are also pretty good including The Russian General. I liked his character, but remembered again him being a lot better in the past than he is now. He doesn't do much than I remember, but he is still well performed.

Overall, Goldeneye is a step in the right direction for James Bond as it powers into the 90s. Well acted, directed, written and is up there as a solid memorable bond film.

Rating - 94% - A

- You don't need the gun, Commander.
- Well, that depends on your definition of safe sex.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Golden Compass

Based off the popular book trilogy, His Dark Materials is finally adapted into a film series...but it never went well with American audiences.

It was no ordinary life for a young girl: living among scholars in the hallowed halls of Jordan College and tearing unsupervised through Oxford's motley streets on mad quests for adventure. But Lyra's greatest adventure would begin closer to home, the day she heard hushed talk of an extraordinary particle. Microscopic in size, the magical dust- discovered in the vast Arctic expanse of the North -was rumored to possess profound properties that could unite whole universes. But there were those who feared the particle and would stop at nothing to destroy it. Catapulted into the heart of a terrible struggle, Lyra was forced to seek aid from clans, 'gyptians, and formidable armored bears. And as she journeyed into unbelievable danger, she had not the faintest clue that she alone was destined to win, or to lose, this more-than-mortal battle...

The stuff that I liked first. I like the atmosphere and design of the world. Its different yet similar at the same time, so props to the art and production department who really put the effort in making something truly look magical on screen. Nicole Kidman is also very good as the villain and plays it very naturally. Daniel Craig is OK but isn't in the film as much which is a disappointinment. Dakota Blue Richards is also really good in one of her first roles. Its roles like this which should have made her a bigger star than she is, but she still pulls in a good performance.

The problem was obviously the reception the film had in America, which was a flop. As well as that, compared to reading the first book, they leave a lot of things out that fans were eager to see on screen. I possibly think Hollywood would go for a reboot in a decade or two time, but their is the religious element that may have been responsible for why the film did poorly in America.

Overall, The Golden Compass is a good effort at tackling a very complex and popular novel. Good acting and effects, but the story gets a bit naff at points.

Rating - 76% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Tiny Furniture

Before launching a "hit" in the form of HBO's Girls, Lena Dunham's only claim to fame was in this 2010 indie feature which definitely owns the name "indie". The film is About a recent college grad who returns home while she tries to figure out what to do with her life.

This isn't really a plot film, more of a character film in which we see the characters and their flaws that makes them human. Lena Dunham is very good in the lead in a film written and directed by her. I think this works best as an indie due to the fact that this is not a film targeted to everyone. There is no story and no hook to keep the audience interested. But never the less, its a realistic yet light hearted film about flawed people trying to find a new direction in life, and its done very well.

Overall, Tiny Furniture is a good indie recommended by me to you. (Sorry for the short review.)

Rating - 85% - A-

[nebbit]

Glad you liked The Sapphires :yup: I have seen it twice :up:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Silver Linings Playbook

For Jennifer Lawrence, this is a key film to boost her climbing popularity and significance in the Hollywood scene. For Bradley Cooper, this is a film to give him Oscar credential. And for David O Russell, this film mustn't have any negative headlines attached concerning his "behaviour" off camera.

What works about the film is the characters. Both are performed wonderfully by both Cooper & Lawrence, and both have traumas in their life that they are struggling to overcome. And so their relationship is key to the film's story from beginning to end. Robert De Niro's performance is also terrific and certainly boosts Oscar chances for Best Supporting Actor. Rarely does he give a really strong performance in his late career, but in this film he really does deliver. Most of the supporting cast really put in the extra effort in making the film even more realistic and touching.

O Russell's direction of the film is well done, and he does make the two characters very compelling and interesting characters to follow. Lawrence & Cooper also have great chemistry and play their characters well and convincing that they are mentally ill. There are a few terrifically funny scenes in the film, in particular a scene which starts off harmless, but turns into an unintentionally funny scene which involves Bradley Cooper going quite mental and Robert De Niro chasing a teenager across the street. It’s funny, but also quite sad to see Cooper's character losing it over something very simple and harmless.

Silver Linings Playbook is going to be the film to watch out for this awards season. What it’s strong at, will be a challenge to competition. But that being said, it could easily lose out to stronger films (The Master, Les Miserables and Zero Dark Thirty to name three) and fail to reach the impact that Harvey Weinstein wants the film to reach.

Rating - 91% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Tommorow Never Dies

We come now to one of my favorite James Bond films. One that has grown on me for years and years, and now stands at the top of the list for me.

Agent James Bond 007 is on a mission which includes a media tycoon, his former lover and a Chinese agent. Elliot Carver wants to complete his global media empire, but in order for this to work., he must achieve broadcasting rights in China. Carver wants to to start up World War III by starting a confrontation over British and Chinese waters. Bond gains the helping of Wai Lin on his quest to stop him, but how will Bond feel when he meets up with his former lover, who is know Carver's wife.

There are many reasons why TND rates so highly on the list. The first is the story. Its well paced and structured throughout the entire film and really kept me on the edge of my seat. The second thing is the villain. Johnathan Pryce plays the role perfectly. Mad yet intelligent enough to set his plan into motion. With the empire he already has at the start of the film, its clear that he could have succeeded in his plan to start another world war. As well as that, you have another terrific performance by Brosnan as well as two excellent and quite well developed Bond girls. Terri Hatcher is very good and a great tragic figure who is set up in a situation she really can't escape from, and then there is Michelle Yeoh who is pretty much Bond's equal in many ways.

You also have two excellent henchman played by Gotz Otto and Vincent Schiavelli who are chilling as well as menacing against Bond. There are excellent action sequences involved in several moments in the film. They are a little over the top, but still great fun to watch.

Overall, Tomorrow Never Dies is arguably my favorite Bond. It has everything I want in a Bond film and much more. Its a huge recommend.

Rating - 100% - A+

- I used to look in the papers every day for your obituary.
- Sorry to disappoint.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Cheaper By The Dozen (1950)

I had already seen the remake as a child (and loved it), and so the opportunity came to good not to miss the original and make a comparison.

"Cheaper By the Dozen", based on the real-life story of the Gilbreth family, follows them from Providence, Rhode Island, to Montclair, New Jersey, and details the amusing anecdotes found in large families. Frank Gilbreth, Sr., was a pioneer in the field of motion study, and often used his family as guinea pigs (with amusing and sometimes embarrassing results). He resisted popular culture,railing against his daughters' desires for bobbed hair and comsmetics.

For starters, this film is not as outlandish as the remake. Its a bit more safe and calm and tends to be less comedic. But there are things to like about it. The family are very loving and caring of each other, and are very sterotypical of a family you'd normally see in the 50s. But for a film in general, its not really a classic. The acting is mediocre at best, and you don't get invested in the characters as nearly as you want to.

Not much to say, but Overall its a ok movie.

Rating - 61% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The World Is Not Enough

Coming off a personal Bond favorite of mine, comes in many ways the first Bond film I probably ever saw.

James Bond is back. An oil tycoon is murdered in MI6 and Bond is sent to protect his daughter. Renard, who has a bullet lodged in his brain from a previous agent, is secretly planning the destruction of a pipeline. Bond gains a hand from a research scientist, Dr. Christmas Jones who witnesses the action which happens when Bond meets up with Renard, but Bond becomes suspicious about Elektra King, especially when Bond's boss, M goes missing. Bond must work quickly to prevent Renard from destroying Europe.

So much to say about this film that I really love. Firstly, the film to me feels very epic and grand. Bond goes around the world (Which isn't new) and has many amazing sequences that just look terrific on screen. The Plot goes at a great pace and keeps you wanting more every minute as well as keeping the twists tightly sealed. Performances are great. Brosnan is still brilliant as Bond and shows no signs of faulting on his performance. The Villain is another bonus. Robert Carlyle is very good as Renard and determined to cause havoc across the globe. Then there is Sophie Marceau as Elektra, a great Bond girl if I ever saw one. She has personality and the ability to charm even Bond. And then there is Denise Richards. We can all make the criticism that she is not believeable as a nuclear scientist, but to be fair she's a good Bond girl and has good chemistry with Brosnan on screen. As well as that, It is also the final film to have Desmond Llewelyn as Q who unfortunately died so after the film was finished. John Clesse however is a good successor to Desmond and does a good job in the role. You also have Robbie Coltrane back from his role in Goldeneye and is brilliant as always.

The action sequences are also fantastic in this film. The Ski case was suspenseful and the action scene in the warehouse area was also brilliantly done with the two helicopters.

Overall, The World Is Not Enough is a solid continuation from Tomorrow Never Dies and keeps Brosnan's run as Bond exciting and 90s.

Rating - 99% - A

- What business do you have with Elektra King?
- I thought it was *you* who was giving her the business.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Batman Returns

Tim Burton's 1989 Batman wasn't a good film for me. But hey, let's see if the sequel is any better.

Having defeated the Joker, Batman now faces the Penguin - a warped and deformed individual who is intent on being accepted into Gotham society. Crooked businessman Max Schreck is coerced into helping him become Mayor of Gotham and they both attempt to expose Batman in a different light. Earlier however, Selina Kyle, Max's secretary, is thrown from the top of a building and is transformed into Catwoman - a mysterious figure who has the same personality disorder as Batman. Batman must attempt to clear his name, all the time deciding just what must be done with the Catwoman.

Well the film like Batman doesn't really delivered. The pacing of the story is slow and dull and doesn't really splash out on screen as much as its meant to. Burton is a good director, but he does the same visual style over and over again, that it just becomes overkill. Michael Keaton is still a great Batman and sells the role well, but everyone else sort of falls flat in the role. Danny Devito overdoes it as The Penquin and Michelle Pfeiffer is sort of dry and silly as Catwoman. It also gets a little bit too dark near the end of the film, and questions whether the film is really suitable for younger audiences.

Overall, Batman Returns is a dissapointment and is one of Burton's weakest films.

Rating - 61% - B

[honeykid]

Wha? Batman Returns is great. It's the best Batman film that's been made.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Senna

This was a documentary recommend by a lot of people from a lot of different sources. So I finally got this last christmas and sat down to watch it recently. And man, what a film!

The story of the monumental life and tragic death of legendary Brazilian motor-racing Champion, Ayrton Senna. Spanning the decade from his arrival in Formula One in the mid 80's, the film follows Senna's struggles both on track against his nemesis, French World Champion Alain Prost, and off it, against the politics which infest the sport. Sublime, spiritual yet, on occasion, ruthless - Senna conquers and transcends Formula One to become a global superstar. Privately, he is humble, almost shy, and fiercely patriotic, donating millions to his native Brasil and contemplating a life beyond motor-racing. Yet he is struck down in his prime on the blackest weekend in the history of the sport, watched live on television by 300 million people. Years on he is revered in Formula One as the greatest motor racing driver of all time - and in Brasil as a Saint.

I watched the extended version of this documentary, and while it is longer, you do know a lot more about Senna in general. Formula 1 is something that I am vaguely interested in, but this Documentary really gave me an interesting and thrilling insight into the sport. Its dangerous and yet loved around the world by so many different cultures and countries. Senna was an interesting fellow who was a craft at the sport like no other. His passion and drive to succeed was something never truly matched before in Formula 1. I'm not fully knowledgeable about the sport to debate whether he truely was the greatest of all time, but the documentary does go into good detail and theory about why he should be the best. With a lot of archive footage and information about his early career to his unfortunate and tragic death, its very well made and gives itself a standard yet to be beat by other Documentary filmmakers.

Overall, Senna is a astounding piece of work that has to be seen about a very interesting figure in Motor Sports. I recommend this hugely.

Rating - 92% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Crash

Hyped by many as the best film of 2004 as well as winning the best picture oscar the following february, I had high expectations for this film. Did it deliver ?...Hell No!

Over a thirty-six hour period in Los Angeles, a handful of disparate people's lives intertwine as they deal with the tense race relations that belie life in the city. Among the players are: the Caucasian district attorney, who uses race as a political card; his Caucasian wife, who, having recently been carjacked by two black men, believes that her stereotypical views of non-whites is justified and cannot be considered racism; the two black carjackers who use their race both to their advantage and as an excuse; partnered Caucasian police constables, one who is a racist and uses his authority to harass non-whites, and the other who hates his partner because of those racist views, but who may have the same underlying values in his subconscious; a black film director and his black wife, who believes her husband doesn't support their black background enough, especially in light of an incident with the racist white cop; partnered police detectives and sometimes lovers, one Hispanic female and the other black male, the latter who is dealing with a drugged out mother that feels he isn't concerned enough about taking care of family; an East Asian man who is run over but who is hiding some valuable cargo in the back of his van; a Persian store owner, who feels he isn't getting satisfaction from American society when his store is robbed time and time again; and a Hispanic locksmith, who just wants to keep his family, especially his adolescent daughter, safe in a seemingly unsafe world.

So really where do I begin with this film ? Firstly, the whole ensemble genre in general in Film can only work if you have interesting characters as well as balancing the screen time with each actor you have. Crash accomplishes none of these things. None of the characters in general are that interesting and really fail to make the audience sympathize with them. You have a mixture of horrible to just plain stupid characters who are in these situations because of just how unpleasant they really are. Performances wise though, there are some good ones. Matt Dillon and Don Cheadle give some good performances as does Sandra Bullock. But the highlight of the film was Michael Pena who gave a real powerhouse of a performance in this film and really stood out above everyone else.

I think the film is generally overhyped in general, as really its not that good. I've seen better ensemble films with stronger themes. Hell even Valentines Day is a better film than Crash. Yeah, never thought you'd read that on the internet didn't you.

Overall, Crash is a dissapointment and fails to live up to its hypes other than some good performances.

Rating - 61% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Southland Tales

This is a film that really really divides people, and after seeing it I can understand why. But do I like Southland Tales or hate Southland Tales ?

Southland Tales is an ensemble piece set in the futuristic landscape of Los Angeles on July 4, 2008, as it stands on the brink of social, economic and environmental disaster. Boxer Santaros is an action star who's stricken with amnesia. His life intertwines with Krysta Now, an adult film star developing her own reality television project, and Ronald Taverner, a Hermosa Beach police officer who holds the key to a vast conspiracy.

I'll start with the good things about the film. I love the atmosphere of the film. Clearly this is the element of the film that divides the audience over whether this is good or bad. But I think its meant to be there. The atmosphere of the film makes the film look clustered, messy and all over the place, but really if you think about the story and the world of the film, then that is intentional and it fits completely. Performances are good too. I actually really like The Rock in this film. He does a pretty good job as does Sarah Michelle Geller and several other actors in the film.

However, here are the problems. The plot feels a bit muddled and silly at times. There is this awkward music sequence in which Justin Timberlake mimes to a Killers song. It has no place in the film and I'm still confused now as to why it was there. The Ending also tends to drag on and on without any sign of ending, and then decides to abruptly end leaving you even more fustrated.

So yeah, Overall Southland Tales divides audiences, but I liked it for what it is. Regardless of whether you feel or not feel like seeing this film, you should see it just to be on one side of the pond or the other.

Rating - 76% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Die Another Day

Pierce Brosnan's final Bond film as well as the one that grinded a change of gear in the 007 Franchise. But despite mainstream opinion of this film, I have a different opinion to this film. One that might surprise people.

Pierce Brosnan gives one last mission as James Bond. Starting off in North Korea, Bond is betrayed and captured. 14 months later, Bond is set free, but traded for Zao who was captured by MI6. When back in his world, Bond sets off to track down Zao. Bond gets caught up in yet another scheme which sends him to millionaire Gustav Graves. Another MI6 agent known as Miranda Frost is also posing as a friend of Graves. Bond is invited to a presentation held by Graves about a satellite found in space which can project a huge laser beam. Bond must stop this madman with a fellow American agent, known as Jinx. Whilst Bond tries to stop Graves and Zao, will he finally reveal who betrayed him?

Here are the things I like about this film. The first is the story. The Revenge angle in a Bond film isn't used much, so its nice to see it again even if it isn't as good as Licence To Kill. Never the less, its a good story that is executed well and sees Bond like before having to use his instincts rather than Gadgets and MI6 backup. Brosnan as usual acts his socks off in the role and bows out in true style. You also have Halle Berry in quite possibly the best Bond girl to bounce off Brosnan. They have great chemistry and both are interesting characters. The Villains are also good and really surprised me. Zao is a little bit over the top, but just a little bit.

There are a number of things I didn't like. For example, Bond recovers pretty quickly from being in captivity for 14 months. And then there is the invisible car which everyone slags off. Its not completely terrible, but it really wasn't needed.

But Overall, Die Another Day is underrated and is a solid end to Brosnan's run. But new directions were coming for James Bond and would really kick Bond into the 21st century.

Rating - 92% - A

[Brodinski]

Dude, you rate Die Another Day, Tomorrow Never Dies and The World Is Not Enough at about the same level as Senna. What gives? I liked Pierce Brosnan as Bond, but the only decent film in which he starred was Goldeneye.

[MovieMad16]

I disagree here. I grew up with these films though, so there is the bias where as Senna I only saw a few months ago. Great documentary, but Nostlagia beats well made documentary any day. :)

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...American Psycho

Christian Bale is a extraordinary actor with immense talent and skill in the acting world. Many have argued what his best performance so far has been, and many people seem to point to this film. And after seeing it, I couldn't disagree.

Patrick Bateman is handsome, well educated and intelligent. He is twenty-seven and living his own American dream. He works by day on Wall Street, earning a fortune to complement the one he was born with. At night he descends into madness, as he experiments with fear and violence.

Really, the strength of this film lies with Bale and his performance. Its an amazing multi layered performance that really lures you into his world with such intrigue and fear. His mindset is all over the place, and has these bizzare desires in his life that he is set to furfill, whatever the cost. The character of Patrick Bateman is a very complex one. He has murderous thoughts and commits various crimes over the course of the film, which make him more sick and dark throughout the story. Reese Witherspoon is also very good as Bateman's girlfriend, who is very oblivious to what her boyfriend is really like.

Some of the scenes in the film are very intense. Like when Bateman kills someone with an axe whilst playing Huey Lewis & The News as well as the final 10 minutes which are just brilliant to watch. It helps that we follow Bateman and not see it from anyone else's point of view, because its not until the end that you get the full picture of what Bateman has to go through every day.

Overall, American Psycho is a masterpiece in thriller film making. Brilliant acting, storytelling as well as an amazing twist.

Rating - 100% - A+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Punch Drunk Love

Continuing going through The Paul Thomas Anderson catalogue by watching another of his well appreciated films. It stars Adam Sandler and has him in a role that Sandler isn't usually known for, but is never the less impressive in. Adam Sandler plays Barry Egan, who is a small business owner with seven sisters whose abuse has kept him alone and unable to fall in love. When a harmonium and a mysterious woman enter his life, his romantic journey begins.

The film is Anderson's shortest film at just over 90 minutes, but yet like all of his other films contains a wonderful little charm about it. Adam Sandler does very well in this film, playing someone who feels like he has no control or direction in his life. You feel for him and want him to lead a more happy relaxing lifestyle. Then he meets Emily Watson's character, who has a very charming and likable personality and connects well with Sandler's character and creates a sweet romance. You then have future 24 star Mary Lynn Rajskub playing quite a similar character to Chloe O Brien, but the difference is that she is more in control of her life and domineering of Sandler's character. But never the less, still a good actress none the less.

Then there is Phillip Seymour Hoffman, in a small but good role in which he plays a conman trying to swindle Sandler out of some money. He does it all by not even talking to him in person, but yet is still a good role. The fact that this is the shortest of the PTA films, kind of makes sense as this sort of film cannot be a long 2-3 hour epic like Magnolia or There Will Be Blood. But never the less, the pacing is well done and a nice light hearted dramedy.

Overall, Punch Drunk Love is a solid film by PTA and features arguably Adam Sandler's best performance of his career as well as some gorgeous cinematography and a good story.

Rating - 84% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Peter Pan

Everyone must know the story of Peter Pan. Its a childhood classic with a great story to lure new generations in every time its told. In 2003, Peter Pan was once again adapted for the screen, but is it better than the Disney version ?

In stifling Edwardian London, Wendy Darling mesmerizes her brothers every night with bedtime tales of swordplay, swashbuckling, and the fearsome Captain Hook. But the children become the heroes of an even greater story, when Peter Pan flies into their nursery one night and leads them over moonlit rooftops through a galaxy of stars and to the lush jungles of Neverland. Wendy and her brothers join Peter and the Lost Boys in an exhilarating life--free of grown-up rules--while also facing the inevitable showdown with Hook and his bloodthirsty pirates.

So the things are like are quite easy. First is that I really like the cinematography and the way its shot. Its very magical and gives the impression that we are in another world. The Effects are great, as well as the lighting and colour of the whole picture. The second thing is the performance of Jason Issacs who is brilliant as Captain Hook and really makes the character his own. As well as that, the chemistry between Peter & Wendy (Played by Jeremy Sumpter & Rachel Hurd Wood) is fantastic and really genuine. You believe in the romance that can't happen and you believe that Wendy is a character that is maturing in the most immature of settings. Its always great character development with this story as well as Peter's reluctance to leave Neverland and grow up.

That being said, there are negatives to the story. I feel the plot dragged on a lot as well as the actor playing Peter Pan being quite creepy in several scenes. It lacked any suspense or thrills in the film.

Overall, Peter Pan is a solid take on the story and offers an alternative to the disney classic.

Rating - 71% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...End Of Watch

A film I didn't really have much enthusiasm to go and see. But my dad wanted to see it, so I thought "Why Not ?" and I'm glad I did because this film is terrific. The film tells the story of Two young officers who are marked for death after confiscating a small cache of money and firearms from the members of a notorious cartel, during a routine traffic stop.

The Officers are played by Jake Gyllenhall & Michael Pena and both have a fantastic relationship that is already established before the start of the film. Jake's character begins a romance with Anna Kendrick and its very realistic and also builds up very well. Michael Pena is already married and his wife is played by Natalie Martinez. The four characters are very well played and their chemistry shines on screen. But the other thing I really enjoy is the atmosphere. Its very realistic and believable for a film like this.

Another thing I really liked in the film was the cameras. They were used very differently but again very well and done with some form of realism. The handheld doesn't really make the film a mess in any way as its carefully done and you eventually forget about it in due time. Plus it makes the performances better to watch.

Overall, End Of Watch is a good film to watch and something I definitely recommend.

Rating - 85% - A-

[honeykid]

I believe that, no less than William Friedkin, called End Of Watch the best police thriller ever made. Quite a compliment from the director of The French Connection.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...A Clockwork Orange

Stanley Kubrick's films all stand out in various ways. However, there is one that too many fans stands out above all others for various reasons. The most is for the fact that Kubrick himself had this removed from UK Cinemas at the time of its release. And it was none other than A Clockwork Orange.

Protagonist Alex is an "ultraviolent" youth in futuristic Britain. As with all luck, his eventually runs out and he's arrested and convicted of murder and rape. While in prison, Alex learns of an experimental program in which convicts are programed to detest violence. If he goes through the program his sentence will be reduced and he will be back on the streets sooner than expected. But Alex's ordeals are far from over once he hits the mean streets of Britain that he had a hand in creating.

There are many good things to talk about in this film. First, I'll talk about how good Malcolm McDowell is in this film. What an incredible performance and quite possibly the best performance out of any Kubrick film. He is an incredibly dark and deadly character who enjoys the crimes he commits as well as the freedom he endures throughout the city. But once the government gets a hold of him, his character goes through a complete transformation and everything we like about this character is gone. Its a scary transformation and really messes him up psychologically, but Malcolm McDowell playing Alex is still fantastic on every level.

I also really love the production design of the film. Its very 70s but very gritty and lowlife as possible. It makes the world of this film a lost cause, and how anyone associated with this life has no hope of redemption. Kubrick does a terrific job as always at directing and really creates a world full of scum and villianly.

Overall, A Clockwork Orange is a masterpiece and a highlight of Kubrick's work and one that you must see.

Rating - 100% - A+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Triplets Of Belleville

A very well regarded piece of French Animation which is loved by a lot of film buffs. So why do I think its personally overrated ?

Madame Souza, an elderly woman, instills in her grandson Champion (for who she acts as his guardian) a love of cycling. As a young man, he does become a dedicated road racer with his grandmother as his trainer. During a mountainous leg of the Tour de France in which Champion is racing, he goes missing. Evidence points to him being kidnapped. Indeed, he and two of his competitors were kidnapped, the kidnappers who want to use the threesome's unique skills for nefarious purposes. With Champion's overweight and faithful pet dog Bruno at her side, Madame Souza goes looking for Champion. Their trek takes them overseas to the town of Belleville. Without any money, Madame Souza and Bruno are befriended and taken in by three eccentric elderly women, who were once the renowned jazz singing group The Triplets of Belleville. The triplets help Madame Souza and Bruno try to locate and rescue Champion.

Firstly, the animation is well done and very different from a lot of other animation young people are used to. However, what dissapoints the film for me is the story and just how uninteresting it is. There isn't much dialogue and visually, it can't hold the story that well. Plus, even at times the animation gets rather silly and over the top. I know its trying to be different, but it just becomes too different and unusual from other animation. The singing by the three sisters however is very good and really enjoyable. I would have really liked to have known more about them rather than the teenager and his grandmother.

Overall, Triplets Of Belleville is dissapointing, but may find a cult audience some way in some form.

Rating - 63% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Hot Shots: Part Deux

I haven't seen the first Hot Shots, but this was on TV and so I thought I would give it a watch. This is Hot Shots Part Deux.

Topper Harley is found working as an odd-job-man in a monastery. The CIA wants him to lead a rescue mission into Iraq, to rescue the last rescue team, who went in to rescue the last rescue team who... who went in to rescue hostages left behind after Desert Storm. The President is Tug Benson, who also likes to be in on the action. Basically, it's a send-up of all the big shoot-em-up Rambo/Robocop/T2/Commando-type movies.

So a lot of the films jokes are from films like Airplane which tends to throw comedy right out of the window and lets the writers do whatever can make the audience laugh. And unfortunately, this film tends to be quite dissapointing on the joke end. There are some funny jokes, but the problem is that they keep throwing one every second and it feels like overkill.

Charlie Sheen however is the real star of the film, out of a very starry cast. Sheen takes the role seriously, but does add some seriousness in some way. I enjoy the story too, which must have been a parody of another war film from the 80s or early 90s. Its fun to watch and it doesn't get dull anytime soon.

Overall, Hot Shots 2 is a fun film, but the comedy element goes over the top slightly. Give it a watch.

Rating - 66% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Raid

Many people were talking about this film massively, and now finally I've managed to see it. And believe me, its very very good.

In Jakarta, Indonesia, Lieutenant Wahyu organizes the invasion of an apartment building that is the safe house of the powerful and cruel drug lord Tama and his gang. The SWAT team breaks in the building but one lookout sees and warns the gangsters and the police force is trapped on the seventh floor. They learn that Lt. Wahyu has not informed his superiors about the operation. Now the police officers have to fight with limited ammunition against the armed and dangerous gangsters.

This film is a very entertaining and brutal action film. The clever element of it is the story is set in one location which is the tower block and sort of plays like a video game in some parts. You have the police battling to get to the very top like a survival horror video game. You know in particular about one character and his backstory and that is sort of the drive that we want to see his character succeed. Plus, he is a fantastic martial artist. I also have to give praise to another fantastic martial artist in the form of Yayan Ruhian who plays the henchman of the main villain. He is fantastic as a fighter as well as a sinister villain. The three way fight scene with him, the main hero and his brother is fantastic and arguably one of the best fight scenes I have ever seen in motion picture history. Its a must see for that alone.

But Overall, The Raid is a great fun action film that will be loved by fans of the genre as well as new fans who might want to take a look at something new.

Rating - 85% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Cat People (1942)

Its a cult horror classic with a lot of people. But to me, I wasn't so keen to watch this. But finally, I decided to give this a watch. And boy, I have to say, its quite dissapointing.

Irena Dubrovna, a beautiful and mysterious Serbian-born fashion artist living in New York City, falls in love with and marries average-Joe American Oliver Reed. Their marriage suffers though, as Irena believes that she suffers from an ancient curse- whenever emotionally aroused, she will turn into a panther and kill. Oliver thinks that is absurd and childish, so he sends her to psychiatrist Dr. Judd to cure her. Easier said than done...

There are a number of things I like about this film. Mainly, its the film's atmosphere. It really works for a black and white chiller and really puts you in a mood that something isn't quite right. The Acting is also pretty good and really is convincing for the story.

However, the problem is really down to the fact that the story isn't really that scary. Its more of a psychological thriller than a horror. The pacing is a bit dull and the ending is dissapointing. But at the time, it must have been a scary experience, but now like a lot of B&W films, they are very dated and lack a thrill for a modern audience.

Overall, Cat People is decent, but not that good of a film. Maybe another remake is in order.

Rating - 54% - B-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Re Reviews...Casino Royale

Continuing Bond Season now and it is time to re review the first Bond film I reviewed on this thread...Casino Royale.

James Bond goes on his first ever mission as a 00. Le Chiffre is a banker to the world's terrorists. He is participating in a poker game at Montenegro, where he must win back his money, in order to stay safe among the terrorist market. The boss of MI6, known simply as M sends Bond, along with Vesper Lynd to attend this game and prevent Le Chiffre from winning. Bond, using help from Felix Leiter, Mathis and having Vesper pose as his wife, enters the most important poker game in his already dangerous career. But if Bond defeats Le Chiffre, will he and Vesper Lynd remain safe?

So as it stands, Casino Royale is still a magnificent film to watch and arguebly one of the best if not the best Bond film made yet. The Cinematography is gorgeous, as well as the story being stronger than I thought before. The Acting is terrific and as I stand before, Daniel Craig is amazing as Bond and is the closest to how Fleming and the novel series depicted the character originally. Eva Green as Vesper is also very good. Judi Dench is a lot more sweary than she was before in the previous films, but I guess more realistic and stubborn as before. And of course, the villains are still really good, especially the silent but important Mr White.

So not much as to said, as Overall Casino Royale still holds up and is still a fantastic bond film.

Rating - 100% - A+

- It doesn't bother you? Killing all those people?
- Well I wouldn't be very good at my job if it did.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Three Muskerteers (1973)

After seeing and in many ways growing up watching the 1993 version of this story, I didn't think I would be use to any other adaption past or present of this story. But the 1973 version, is unfortunately not a good film in general.

The young D'Artagnan arrives in Paris with dreams of becoming a king's musketeer. He meets and quarrels with three men, Athos, Porthos, and Aramis, each of whom challenges him to a duel. D'Artagnan finds out they are musketeers and is invited to join them in their efforts to oppose Cardinal Richelieu, who wishes to increase his already considerable power over the king. D'Artagnan must also juggle affairs with the charming Constance Bonancieux and the passionate Lady De Winter, a secret agent for the cardinal.

This film is a major dissapointment. Its not a very compelling or interesting take on the story. The Acting is unmemorable and dull for most of the film. The story or in this case, the pacing of this story is rubbish and the entire production really of this film just doesn't work and makes the film look cheap and amateurish. There isn't much to remember as I was really bored throughout the entire film. There is so little to like that makes the 1993 version so much more memorable.

Overall, I might need to see this again one day. But as of now, Its not worth the time.

Rating - 41% - C+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Hotel For Dogs

Emma Roberts has had quite a successful career with a lot of good work under her work, but she has never been particularly break out. I've decided to watch one of her earlier works back a few years ago. Hotel For Dogs is a kids demographic film which seems to attract all the right people. But is it any good ?

Animals are strictly forbidden at Andi and her little brother Bruce's foster home. But for Friday, the adorable dog they secretly care for, they're ready to risk everything. They finally find him an ideal shelter, a huge abandoned hotel that Bruce transforms thanks to his engineering genius. In what has become an incredible paradise for dogs, Friday is soon joined by all kinds of furry friends, so many in fact that their barks alert the neighbors...and the local pound, who can't understand the disappearance of all the stray dogs. Andi and Bruce will have to call on all their friends and all their imagination to stop the hotel's secret from being discovered.

There are a lot of things are aren't very good about this film. Emma Roberts pulls in a convincing enough lead performance for a kids film, and really in many ways drives the film. Jake T Austin who plays the brother is also pretty good in the supporting role. Don Cheadle also does well, and that is really about it. The rest of the film is your standard children's film with pets involved. The plot is unrealistic, but fun at least and its convincing enough to manipulate young audiences emotions. But ultimately, its your standard Disney film that manages to entertain young audiences very well.

Overall, Hotel For Dogs doesn't stand out but its enjoyable for families who want something to pass the time.

Rating - 61% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Peter Jackson returns to the world that made his name. But by now, blockbusters making billions are a regular thing and every major studio in Hollywood is trying to make their copy of LOTR. So can it sustain popularity ?

Bilbo Baggins is swept into a quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor from the fearsome dragon Smaug. Approached out of the blue by the wizard Gandalf the Grey, Bilbo finds himself joining a company of thirteen dwarves led by the legendary warrior, Thorin Oakenshield. Their journey will take them into the Wild; through treacherous lands swarming with Goblins and Orcs, deadly Wargs and Giant Spiders, Shapeshifters and Sorcerers. Although their goal lies to the East and the wastelands of the Lonely Mountain first they must escape the goblin tunnels, where Bilbo meets the creature that will change his life forever ... Gollum. Here, alone with Gollum, on the shores of an underground lake, the unassuming Bilbo Baggins not only discovers depths of guile and courage that surprise even him, he also gains possession of Gollum's "precious" ring that holds unexpected and useful qualities ...

The Hobbit Part 1 is a film I really enjoyed. Returning to the world of Middle Earth is a plus all in itself. I love the visuals, the costumes and how the cinematography gives it that epic fantasy feel to the film. Jackson's direction is still very good when it comes to these type of films. The characters (While different) are excellent to watch and seeing the likes of Gandalf back on screen is quite nostalgic in many ways. Martin Freeman takes over as Bilbo Baggins and takes a lot of mannerisms that Ian Holm had as Bilbo, and yet incorporates his own take on him too. Then you have the dwarfs. The one problem with them is that they are hard to remember as there are so many of them on screen.

While many people complain its too long, I enjoyed the fact that it was just as long and epic as the LOTR films. Granted, I haven't read the book so I don't know how far into the book they have got into, but I reckon its pretty much half way through. Pacing is not a problem, unless you feel bored. The Visuals are excellent and the CGI is great, even almost ten years on after the
last LOTR film. You can tell where Del Toro's designs are and where Jackson's come in. It makes the film more dazzling and interesting.

Overall, The Hobbit Part 1 is a good start to the trilogy and satisfies fans and keeps the world of JRR Tolken alive and well.

Rating - 93% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Bean:The Ultimate Disaster Movie

Mr Bean is a british comedic icon in many ways. He is seen as a more modern Charlie Chaplin but with a childish mind. So back in 1997, The UK decided to take Mr Bean to the world and see the reaction globally. And the result was Bean the movie.

Bean works as a caretaker at Britain's formidable Royal National Gallery, and his bosses want to fire him because he sleeps at work all the time, but can't because the chairman of the gallery's board defends him. They send him to USA, to the small Los Angeles art gallery instead, where he'll have to officiate at the opening of the greatest US picture ever (called "Whistler's Mother").

First thing to say is that Rowan Atkinson is great in the role as always. He is very much the modern Chaplin with this character and the film does well in putting Bean in a new scenario with a lot of comedic opportunities. The american cast's reaction to Bean's antics are very funny and help make the film more fun to watch. The Plot also is very good too, and puts Bean in a very scary situation that threatens to ruin both Britain & America's reputation.Its a very comedic situation that pays off very well. The acting is good and the enjoyment value is high.

Overall, Bean is a good feature version of the successful tv series. Rowan Atkinson gives it his all and adds something new to the character as well as makes it an entertaining film.

Rating - 76% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Girl (TV Movie)

Alfred Hitchcock's reputation has always been guarded by loyal fans who adore his films and status as a iconic filmmaker. However, this film destines to challenge that with a story behind the scenes of one of Hitchcock's leading ladies, with an entirely different view of him.

When Grace Kelly retires from films to marry Prince Rainier Alfred Hitchcock looks for a similar blonde and finds her in TV model,the little known Tippi Hedren,who will star in his film adaptation of horror story 'The Birds'. Hitchcock is obsessed with Tippi sexually and,when she rebuffs his advances,sadistically puts her through five days of filming where she is attacked and injured by real birds. Hitchcock's wife Alma and his assistant Peggy are appalled but can do nothing. Tippi is resolved that she will not give in to Hitchcock despite the situation giving her nightmares. Hitchcock and Tippi make a second film,'Marnie'. Having admitted that Alma is the only woman he has ever had sex with and that he now finds her cold Hitchcock continues to pursue Tippi, bombarding her with phone calls declaring his love for her yet reminding her that he alone made her famous and she owes him...

Its not that I am defending Hitchcock, because really I do not know the story at all behind the making of these films. But there is a lot wrong with this TV movie. Firstly, the pacing of the plot is crap beyond belief. There is no suspense or thrills within the script and makes everything very stagey and unrealistic. The dialogue isn't very good and the acting is mismanaged. Toby Jones sounds very much like Hitchcock, but doesn't look like him at all, and is the wrong height as I recall Hitchcock was quite a tall man (On screen). Sienna Miller does ok as Tippi, but still isn't that impressive in the role.

No one can really give a strong explanation of what occurred behind the scenes, and whether Tippi is right or not about Hitchcock, a lot doesn't really match up in her story if you really analyze it properly.

Overall, The Girl is a mess and a poorly made production of what is a look at one of our most beloved directors.

Rating - 22% - C-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Camp Rock

I begin the first review of 2013 with a look at Demi Lovato's breakout role. Camp Rock.

"Camp Rock" centers on a teen girl who desperately wants to spend her summer at a prestigious rock camp, but can only attend if she works in the kitchen as one of the cooks. When she's overheard singing - but not seen -- by a teen pop star at the camp, he is completely taken and sets out to find the girl behind the beautiful voice. But first she must confront her fears, step out of the kitchen and into the spotlight.

I found this film to be quite enjoyable when watched closely. Demi Lovato gives us a good strong lead performance and she has a very disney look to her. She's attractive, but not to the point where its being overdone. She appears naturally beautiful and is believable in the role. The Jonas Bros are good, but don't appear in the film much and are just sort of there as staring credit only. Alison Stoner from Cheaper By The Dozen 1 & 2 is in this, and is her usual charming self in the supporting role. The main villian played by Meaghan Martin is good, and you do hate her at points in the film, but is very sterotypical and not very original. The songs are quite catchy and the film has a good feel to it as like a lot of Disney films.

Overall, Camp Rock is a good flick to watch and to sit back and enjoy, but would mostly appeal to a certain female demographic more so than males.

Rating - 70% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Wizard Of Oz

Everyone knows and loves the classic 1939 film The Wizard Of Oz. It was the standout film of the classic Hollywood era (To Mainstream audiences). So, I will now give you my thoughts and views on one of the most famous films ever made.

In this charming film based on the popular L. Frank Baum stories, Dorothy and her dog Toto are caught in a tornado's path and somehow end up in the land of Oz. Here she meets some memorable friends and foes in her journey to meet the Wizard of Oz who everyone says can help her return home and possibly grant her new friends their goals of a brain, heart and courage.

There are a lot of things to say positive about this film. For starters, the colour is very good, for what was a black and white era of Hollywood cinema. The colour helps make the world of Oz magical in many ways and through tones and styles, its pulled off very well. Judy Garland becomes an instant iconic star because of this film. Her look and performance alone make this film instantly watchable. The side characters are also very memorable, but they lack a real personality that Dorothy delivers so highly. And then there is The Wicked Witch, played perfectly by Margaret Hamilton. A lot of people may have seen Wicked already, and I bared that in mind (Despite not seeing it) when seeing The Wicked Witch.

The film itself is memorable for a lot of innovative things. The visual effects, cinematography and well thought out and imaginative story that was well written and performed. The Music too also stands out and made the film and especially the world of Oz, a very magical world and feeling.

Overall, The Wizard Of Oz is a classic to many but isn't personally a favorite of mine.

Rating - 85% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Ponyo

Japanese Anime is a form of animation so little seen. But this 2009 film really does showcase exactly how beautiful and popular an art form such as this can be.

The son of a sailor, 5-year old Sosuke lives a quiet life on an oceanside cliff with his mother Lisa. One fateful day, he finds a beautiful goldfish trapped in a bottle on the beach and upon rescuing her, names her Ponyo. But she is no ordinary goldfish. The daughter of a masterful wizard and a sea goddess, Ponyo uses her father's magic to transform herself into a young girl and quickly falls in love with Sosuke, but the use of such powerful sorcery causes a dangerous imbalance in the world. As the moon steadily draws nearer to the earth and Ponyo's father sends the ocean's mighty waves to find his daughter, the two children embark on an adventure of a lifetime to save the world and fulfill Ponyo's dreams of becoming human.

I really enjoyed this film and there are so many things positive to say about this film. The first is that the animation is very good and is up there with some of Miyazaki's best work. Some of the designs of the characters as well as the simplest of things like the drawing of a setting is very well done. However, part of me was dissapointed by the story. It wasn't really eventful and felt like it plodded along at a slow pace. The Voice acting however for the English version is good and its nice to recognize voices that are so obvious, and then try and figure out certain others. I always enjoy that with foreign films.

The ending however is a bit weak and one in which I got bored at. I won't say what happens but to me it was underwhelming and didn't make me go "WOW" at the end.

Overall, Ponyo is a good film and will really please many Anime fans across the world. Go see it if you haven't yet.

Rating - 73% - B+

[TheGirlWhoHadAllTheLuck x]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Girl (TV Movie)

Alfred Hitchcock's reputation has always been guarded by loyal fans who adore his films and status as a iconic filmmaker. However, this film destines to challenge that with a story behind the scenes of one of Hitchcock's leading ladies, with an entirely different view of him.

When Grace Kelly retires from films to marry Prince Rainier Alfred Hitchcock looks for a similar blonde and finds her in TV model,the little known Tippi Hedren,who will star in his film adaptation of horror story 'The Birds'. Hitchcock is obsessed with Tippi sexually and,when she rebuffs his advances,sadistically puts her through five days of filming where she is attacked and injured by real birds. Hitchcock's wife Alma and his assistant Peggy are appalled but can do nothing. Tippi is resolved that she will not give in to Hitchcock despite the situation giving her nightmares. Hitchcock and Tippi make a second film,'Marnie'. Having admitted that Alma is the only woman he has ever had sex with and that he now finds her cold Hitchcock continues to pursue Tippi, bombarding her with phone calls declaring his love for her yet reminding her that he alone made her famous and she owes him...

Its not that I am defending Hitchcock, because really I do not know the story at all behind the making of these films. But there is a lot wrong with this TV movie. Firstly, the pacing of the plot is crap beyond belief. There is no suspense or thrills within the script and makes everything very stagey and unrealistic. The dialogue isn't very good and the acting is mismanaged. Toby Jones sounds very much like Hitchcock, but doesn't look like him at all, and is the wrong height as I recall Hitchcock was quite a tall man (On screen). Sienna Miller does ok as Tippi, but still isn't that impressive in the role.

No one can really give a strong explanation of what occurred behind the scenes, and whether Tippi is right or not about Hitchcock, a lot doesn't really match up in her story if you really analyze it properly.

Overall, The Girl is a mess and a poorly made production of what is a look at one of our most beloved directors.

Rating - 22% - C-

I would have to disagree. Who cares that he is 'one of our most beloved directors'? I am certainly not equating him to a certain beloved presenter at the BBC who was later outed as a sexual predator- none of us know whether Hitchcock was really like this or not- but one can be a good director whilst being a cruel person (or a person with an element of cruelty).

The film may not have any 'thrills' but it is quietly disturbing and even quite heartbreaking to see Hitchcock consumed by a passion he could not control and his wife who quietly accepts it.

I think the acting's good all round and don't see your problem with the film, apart from the obvious negative portrayal of Hitchcock (although the portrayal is sympathetic).

[MovieMad16]

Hitchcock was a good director, one of the best in fact. But its really the fact that there isn't much evidence apart from Tippi's word that Hitchcock did these things. Not many people have backed up Tippi's story, and no one else has came out with a similar story to Tippi. Then again, It could be true, but its the lack of evidence that keeps people from really believing this story. Many people came out after Saville's death to admit what he was really like (Clever journalism from ITV too) which caused the massive wave of reveals from many other people too.

You see, I had this with a headache while I was watching this film, in which I can admit is not the best condition to be reviewing films. That being said, I still think its very stagey and the dialogue is very flat to me. Production design is good though, I'll give it that.

Toby Jones was good with the voice, but like I said, completely wrong for the party in everything else. I guess its a matter of difference of opinion.

I'm prepared to give it a second try one day. Like Inglorious Basterds. The only difference was I still hate IB.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Tom And Jerry:The Movie

Tom & Jerry is arguebly one of the most beloved cartoon duos of all time and has a wide fanbase around the world. So, I guess a lot of those fans will be encouraged to forget about this film...which if anything, tarnishes that wonderful legacy in some way.

The popular cartoon cat and mouse are thrown into a feature film. The story has the twosome trying to help an orphan girl who is being berated and exploited by a greedy guardian.

There isn't much good to say about this film. The first is that Tom & Jerry talk, which is a crime already in the T&J mythos. The second is the dull plot which is dated and unfunny or not very exciting either. Almost every side character they meet is either evil or useless, and the human female is dull and possess no character whatsoever. As I said, the story is easily boring and loses my interest multiple times. Plus, it has moments which are also quite weird and unnecessary too. Plus, the musical numbers that didn't need to be there whatsoever.

Overall, Tom & Jerry The Movie is a poor cash in of an established beloved cartoon short.

Rating - 34% - C

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Weekend

I must admit, this is the first film I've seen which contains LGBT themes. I dunno, I might have seen one before on film, but this is probably the one in which the focus is the film's main theme.

On a Friday night after a drunken house party with his straight mates, Russell heads out to a gay club, alone and on the pull. Just before closing time he picks up Glen but what's expected to be just a one-night stand becomes something else, something special. That weekend, in bars and in bedrooms, getting drunk and taking drugs, telling stories and having sex, the two men get to know each other. It is a brief encounter that will resonate throughout their lives. Weekend is both an honest and unapologetic love story between two guys and a film about the universal struggle for an authentic life in all its forms. It is about the search for identity and the importance of making a passionate commitment to your life.

I'll say some good things about the film. First is that it does a great job at playing a very realistic relationship and world for the main character. I hate this notion that all gay people are camp and full of egos. The film does a really good job at creating realistic gay characters and making the relationship between Russell & Glen very good and natural. Its well written and well performed, and doesn't play to sterotype which I'm very happy about.

However, the problem is that I didn't love this film as much as many people are praising it for. I would like to see more LGBT films in the future as I'm sure that this isn't the best one. But what I think Weekend has done - or it will do in the future - is give LGBT cinema a bigger platform to stand on in the world. Its very difficult to find films with gay themes in the shops or online these days, and so what I think Weekend has done is really be the first to showcase itself to a mainstream audience and get a positive mainstream reaction.

Overall, Weekend is a good film with a lot of strengths, but not something that will classify it as a classic.

Rating - 75% - B+

[TheGirlWhoHadAllTheLuck x]

Hitchcock was a good director, one of the best in fact. But its really the fact that there isn't much evidence apart from Tippi's word that Hitchcock did these things. Not many people have backed up Tippi's story, and no one else has came out with a similar story to Tippi. Then again, It could be true, but its the lack of evidence that keeps people from really believing this story.

It's quite a well-known urban myth though and yeah, I could see it as plausible. He wouldn't be the first or worst director to abuse his power a little and I don't know how many actors/actresses would say if he did do anything. After all, would you come out and say something against such a respected and beloved director?

I think it could be plausible that Hitchcock might have had an obsession with just one of his actresses. There's a few directors that have 'favourite' actors/actresses.

[TheGirlWhoHadAllTheLuck x]

There's been loads of films with gay themes, quite a few mainstream or at least highly acclaimed. Admittedly it makes it more 'acceptible' if the actors are straight:

My Beautiful Laundrette
A Single Man
Philadelphia
The Kids Are All Right

There's even the first film to use the term 'gay'- Victim, all the way back in the early 60's.

Less high profile are:
Maurice
Another Country
The Children's Hour
Tea and Sympathy (although the character argues that he isn't)
Little Ashes

Name any straight actor and you're bound to find a film in which they've played a gay character, even some choices which might be surprising.

Then we've got Derek Jarman's films.

[MovieMad16]

I picked up a film yesterday called Lost & Delirious with Piper Perabo. Hopefully will give that a watch soon.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Vanilla Sky

Cameron Crowe gives Tom Cruise a project unlike any he has had in his career. A film that for myself I never intended to see, until now.

David Aames takes all he has for granted; his wealth, his inherited publishing company, his good looks - his relationships. Especially his relationships. It catches up to him when a friend/sometimes sex-partner can't see their relationship the way he sees it. From that point, the movie takes a Lynchian twist that ultimately and literally pulls us into Aames' tortured psyche.

For what this was, this film turned out to be quite a surprise for me. I really was hooked into the story and it had me guessing right until the end. Tom Cruise's performance is a very good one and probably one of his most underrated of his career. Everyone else gave in their hand's worth like Cameron Diaz & Penelope Cruz, but to me it was Tom Cruise's character that was the most interesting and the one you wanted to know more about.

However, the pacing of the film tends to get a little slow after 1/3 of the film. Its distracting but not enough to make me stop watching. I was also quite confused with aspects of the plot and had to struggle to keep up with what was happening in general.

Overall, Vanilla Sky is a solid film and really shows a different side to Tom Cruise and gives Cameron Crowe another hit film on its hands.

Rating - 75% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Pitch Perfect

Anna Kendrick is fast becoming one of my favorite actresses at the moment. She has a lovely charm to her and shines in pretty much every role she gets. And this role may be her best yet.

The Barden Bellas are a collegiate, all-girls a cappella singing group thriving on female pop songs and their perfect looks. After a disastrous failing at last year's finals, they are forced to regroup. Among the new recruits is freshman Beca, an independent, aspiring DJ with no interest in the college life. But after she meets Jesse, from the rival all-male a cappella group, Beca has a new outlook and takes it upon herself to help the Bellas find their new look and sound and get back into the competition.

Pitch Perfect is one of those films in which I went in and I left with a huge smile on my face. I love the idea of A Cappella groups and how they can do fantastic versions of well established songs. Its a fun ride and Anna Kendrick has a phenomenal voice and really fits as the main character. I also really like the supporting cast, including Rebel Wilson and Adam Devane, who both play really memorable characters that have great comedic moments too. The Comedy in general is well done and appeals to a really young audience.

There aren't really any downsides to the film. Its my type of film because I fit the age group very well and it was a new side to the musical film that isn't done that much in cinema or media in general. It might have been predictable when glancing back, but I think if the payoff is done well, it doesn't matter.

Overall, Pitch Perfect is an underrated gem. The cast is colourful, songs brilliant and leaves you with a smile on your face that will take a while to get away.

Rating - 100% - A+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The House Bunny

A film I heard a bit about but wasn't so keen on seeing. Anna Faris is a good comedic actress, but is this one of her highlights ?

Finding family. Shelley Darlingson was raised in an orphanage, finally happy when she blossoms into a fox and moves into the Playboy Mansion. Unfortunately, she's summarily expelled on her 27th birthday(she's now too old). In desperation she takes a job as house mother for a sorority of misfits losing their house for lack of members. They have but a few months to find 30 pledges, or a sorority of mean girls will take over their place. Shelley figures that girls will pledge a house that boys find interesting, so she sets out to make the Zetas alluring, not act too smart, and host great parties. Can she succeed, and what about her own makeover? Sabotage is everywhere, plus it's hard to be one's self.

To sum up this film in one word: average. There isn't much to say other than what you would expect. Some jokes work and some don't. Emma Stone is good, Anna Faris is good and everyone else is just meh. Not much to say. The real problem with the girl is that its too predictable and not very exciting. I left afterwards not remembering much of what really happened. Its a sweet idea, but is not a very memorable film.

Overall, The House Bunny is not memorable and not entertaining that much either.

Rating - 54% - B-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Love Story

Arguebly one of the most famous films of the 1970s and one that is bathed with the world "classic". This is Love Story.

Harvard Law student Oliver Barrett IV and music student Jennifer Cavilleri share a chemistry they cannot deny - and a love they cannot ignore. Despite their opposite backgrounds, the young couple put their hearts on the line for each other. When they marry, Oliver's wealthy father threatens to disown him. Jenny tries to reconcile the Barrett men, but to no avail. Oliver and Jenny continue to build their life together. Relying only on each other, they believe love can fix anything. But fate has other plans. Soon, what began as a brutally honest friendship becomes the love story of their lives.

Here is what I liked. The first is the relationship. Its a great pairing and their personalities just glow when they are together. The acting and chemistry in general is beautiful and it evolves over time. Ryan O Neal is very good in the lead, but I really love Ali MacGraw as Jennifer who is just a wonderful character and brilliantly acted. Another thing I really enjoy is the complex relationship between Oliver IV and his father. Its a very hostile raw relationship that is kind of sad to watch. His father wants him to be very different to who he is now, but Oliver is determine to be who he wants to be.

I also think the film is a very sad film. I won't spoil it but the last act of the film is quite upsetting to watch. Despite the fact it was made over 40 years ago, it still holds up as a solid film.

Overall, Love Story is a film I recommend. You might see it in college or university, and if so do enjoy it as its a film that was very important in the 1970s and holds up even today.

Rating - 76% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Movie 43

It’s not often in Hollywood that films will get universally panned by the critics. You may get at least one or two a year, at the usual time of summer blockbuster season. But we’ve only past one month of 2013 (Wow already?) and the cinematic world has now bared witness to the first almighty stinker of the year in the form of Movie 43, an anthology comedy film with an all star ensemble cast participating in a series of “side splitting” shorts, all to fill a comfy 90 minute running time. So while every critic – professional or aspiring – pan the film like its some grotesque crime to cinema, I came out of the screening with a more positive mood to the film. Yes, I actually did harness some enjoyment out of this film. Amazing isn’t it.

To start with what I like should calm you a bit. Being a young adult male, I can confidently say that this film appeals directly to me with its raunchy humour and all star cast attached to the project. The humour works with several shorts, and did make me chuckle a number of times, even if some of it was very cringe worthy to watch. They have no connection to each other, and consist only of inappropriate sexual or toilet filled jokes in order to throw the target audience off their seats in waves of laughter and shock. To me, some worked and others didn’t. For example I thought the sketch with Liev Schreiber & Nicole Kidman was just perfect. It was funny, bizarre and written with a clear idea in mind that was executed very well. Another one, while inappropriate in its story, did have me cackling in the cinema. That was Chloe Grace Moretz’s sketch. The reaction of the two boys (One played by Kick Ass star Christopher Mintz-Plasse) is pretty much perfect of any young male in a situation like that. I also thoroughly enjoyed the superhero sketch, which was probably to my surprise, one of the most tamed of the sketches.

But what didn’t I like about it? Well like I said, the film relies on grotesque humour which is very much directed to one stereotypical target audience: young people. So that leaves adult audiences isolated with the fact that they won’t appreciate or even enjoy the humour the film offers, and create an unpleasant cinema experience for them. I think the film makers should have tried more broad styles of comedy in order to try and lure in older audiences. I appreciate the film makers attempt to try and do something edgy and alternative, but all it did was stir up a huge disgruntled film community and make little money at the box office. Given also it has laid out a selection of embarrassed A-list Hollywood movie stars, who will try and bury themselves in new scripts or projects to get the sour taste of Movie 43 out of their mouths. I bet also they would avoid ever talking about the film again, trying to at least attempt to erase it from their memory. Trust me; weirder things have happened in Hollywood.

To sum all, Movie 43 is an experience. Whether it’s a good or bad experience is entirely up to you. See it if you wish, but be prepared for a film that will leave you with a very weird feeling.

Rating - 61% - B

[nebbit]

Going to give Move 43 a miss till it comes out on DVD :yup:

[honeykid]

^^I'd give it a miss then, as well. Personally, I also intend to miss it on tv and any other opportunity or viewing that I'm offered.^^

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Stoker

Anyone ever watch Prison Break? If so, then you must recall the show’s marvellous main character Michael Scofield played by Wentworth Miller. Well after Prison Break met its rightly timed end, Wentworth went into screen writing as an alternative in Hollywood. And now, we see one of his scripts finally become a Hollywood film in the form of creepy Hitchcockian picture Stoker.

Directed by famous South Korean film-maker Park Chan-wook – in his first English language film might I add – Stoker tells the story of India (Mia Wasikowska), a withdrawn awkward teenager who lives with her relationship strained mother Evelyn (Nicole Kidman). The film starts with India’s father’s funeral, which opens the doors for Charlie Stoker (Matthew Goode) to arrive on the scene and befriend both Evelyn & India. However, with Charlie comes many secrets, and none of them are good ones.

The first thing to say about this film is that it’s a very slow build. It takes a while to really get into the story and figure out exactly who the characters are and their motivations. These characters are not perfect beings. Nicole Kidman’s character shows a lack of understanding to her daughter, as well as no direction of where she is meant to go following her husband’s death. India is an odd character with no friends, and no ordinary social life. Her hobby is hunting – which she was taught by her father – and is important to her character as well as the story. Charlie is one that doesn't take long to figure out, but takes a while to understand what is going on inside his head. And with these complex characters comes complex performances. Matthew Goode is the secret weapon in this film, delivering a cold, confused and calculating character with a desire to develop a unique relationship with India. Mia’s performance helps to make the character of India an intriguing one, with resemblance of a female Damian, yet with a glimmer of hope that she could be something better.

In terms of craft, the direction is very well done. Park’s direction is creative and vivid in imagination, consisting of stylish shots and angles, with the addition of Gothic tones and eerie visuals. It makes the film look very abandoned and dirty in terms of tone and mood. The cinematography is well crafted as is its editing and most especially, the sound. It’s very present in the film, and helps us understand one of India’s traits.

One nagging problem is again, it’s a slow building film that takes a while to get to a significant point in the film. You have a period before really an event in the film really packs a punch into the film and takes it into a new direction.

But Overall, Stoker is a solid put together picture with a strong script, direction and powerful performances that will most certainly give this a strong audience and maybe even the first contender in the 2014 awards season. That being said, don’t expect this a winner by any means.

Rating - 81% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Les Miserables

Its a story that has been beloved by so many generations, in so many different formats. The Musical has been the most appreciated in this generation, and so for director Tom Hooper, the task of translating that to a cinema audience would be a tough task. But did he achieve that ?

Based on the novel by Victor Hugo, 'Les Miserables' travels with prisoner-on-parole, 24601, Jean Valjean, as he runs from the ruthless Inspector Javert on a journey beyond the barricades, at the center of the June Rebellion. Meanwhile, the life of a working class girl with a child is at turning point as she turns to prostitution to pay money to the evil innkeeper and his wife who look after her child, Cosette. Valjean promises to take care of the child, eventually leads to a love triangle between Cosette, Marius who is a student of the rebellion, and Eponine, a girl of the streets. The people sing of their anger and Enjolras leads the students to fight upon the barricades.

The things I was skeptical of, would be that the gritty element of the film version would destroy the magic that the magical so wonderfully built. And while the film takes a more gritty version, it manages to successfully retain its magic with ease. I enjoyed the songs, and the overall pace of the story was slightly altered, but didn't harm the film in anyway whatsoever.

Performances wise, Hugh Jackman to me is the best of the bunch. He plays the best character, and ultimately gives the best performance. Anne Hathaway's turn is also a watch and makes the character of Fantine a very important character. Other noteworthy performances are Russell Crowe (**** it, he was good!), Eddie Redmayne, Samantha Barks and Sasha Baren Cohen.

I also enjoyed the direction of the film, costumes and the addition of the live singing which made the film more raw and edgy.

Overall, Les Miserables is a strong film and excellent adaptation of the musical, as well as introducing the film to a new audience.

Rating - 99% - A

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Place Beyond The Pines

Ryan Gosling’s ascent into Hollywood has been unusual compared to other ascents of his fellow co-stars. He started off in Disney’s The Mickey Mouse Club, before carving himself in independent pictures with stand out roles in The Notebook (2006), Blue Valentine (2010), Drive (2011) and now his latest starring role The Place Beyond The Pines (2013). But whilst his acclaim and fan base remains relevantly high, box office numbers have been disappointing in his recent trio of films. But can The Place Beyond The Pines be a film to change that?

The film’s plot focuses on the character of Luke Glanton (Gosling), a motorcycle stunt driver who works as part of a carnival. But following the revelation that he has a son with an ex girlfriend (Eva Mendes), he decides that he wishes to be apart of his life. But short of money, he opts to robbing banks to fund his son’s future. This ultimately leads him to cross paths with Officer Avery Cross (Bradley Cooper) who is determine to hunt him down and bring him to justice…

Having not seen Blue Valentine (yet), this was my first exposure to Derek Cianfrance as well as my first thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses he brings as a film-maker. The weaknesses are very few, as Cianfrance directs a fine quality script with a wonderfully rich and interweaving story about time, class society and family. The story’s pacing is flawless and lures you into what is already a complicated and harshly constructed world of crime, poverty and death. The characters are all well developed with their own distinctive personalities and goals. There’s also no real villain in this story, apart from what ultimately is life, and the decisions the characters make that ultimately makes them flawed people.

Ryan Gosling gives a strong performance for a character that is on the edge. When discovering he has a child, his life turns upside down, and is forced to commit bank robberies to contribute to his son’s life. The character of Luke Glanton is a sociable character, who while attains a shabby sleazy appearance, he is a good man at heart who wants to build a relationship with his son, and hopefully with his ex girlfriend Romina played divinely by Eva Mendes. Mendes’s role is supporting, but is key to the narrative and overall arc of the story. Then you have Bradley Cooper, who plays Avery Cross. Cross is a cop who is caught in a world full of corruption and greed within the police. Cooper captures the performance of a man who destine`s to do good in the community, in a pool of perfidious police officers who use the badge for their own greed. But as the story goes on, and Cross elevates through the ranks, the sins of his past begin to catch up on him in captivating circumstances. There is also a brilliant supporting performance by newcomer Dane DeHaan, who plays a very important role in the film’s third act, which brings the plot of the film full circle in tragic circumstances.

Another thing to praise is the camera direction of the film. Some wonderful angles are shown in the film which let the audience breath in the atmosphere which is both realistic, yet beautiful at the same time. The wide shots of the empty open road, with the pine trees surrounding it are just breathtaking stuff. The direction is also great in intense chase scenes when Glanton is escaping from a bank heist. It’s exciting, and through the intense camera-work, it’s shown via shaky quaking camera-work. I also appreciate the soundtrack, which has a mixture of perfect atmospheric music, combined with nostalgic country folk songs which capture in some sense, the nostalgia that the small town embodies.

To sum up, The Place Beyond The Pines is in many ways a cinematic odyssey. It’s a film full of power, emotion and realism. It contains strong performances, a breathtaking visual style as well as a strong long arc story with heavy present themes. It’s already for me the best film of the year so far.

Rating - 100% - A+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews... Banaz A Love Story

Banaz: A Love Story is a documentary about the honour killing of Banaz Mahmod, a young Kurdish woman forced into an abusive marriage, a hopeful love affair and the psychological fear months before her death. The documentary chronicles the story as well as interviews from Banaz’s sister as well as DCI Caroline Goode, the officer investigating the murder and hunting the killers.

Directed by Deeyah, the film is a real eye opener to an issue very little reported by the British media. It’s not a pleasant situation to watch, but it’s none the less an interesting film to watch and be educated in honour killings and how it’s an alarming issue in the UK. Despite the film’s short running time, it none the less gets everything it needs to out to the audience and creates a serious tone that will hook in intrigued audiences. The final montage showcases just how serious this issue is, with a montage consisting of victims of honour killings throughout the UK. It is not known how recent they have been since the film was made, but it perfectly captures the seriousness of the issue and the eagerness to tackle the issue in a capable and precise manner.

Not a long review, but the documentary in itself is worthwhile and deserves a watch. It’s a subject that deserves more attention overall in mainstream media, and hopefully this film can be the launching pad of it.

Rating - 75% - B+

[nebbit]

I remember reading about this :(

[MovieMad16]

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Been two months since my last review but I'm back.

Connor Macgregor Reviews...My Dinner With Andre

One film I've been trying to see for a long time. First caught my attention when Angry Alien parodied it in very funny fashion. Now, I finally caught a copy of a film and gave it a watch.

Wallace Shawn and Andre Gregory, apparently playing themselves, share their lives over the course of an evening meal at a restaurant. Gregory, a theater director from New York, is the more talkative of the pair. He relates to Shawn his tales of dropping out, travelling around the world, and experiencing the variety of ways people live, such as a monk who could balance his entire weight on his fingertips. Shawn listens avidly, but questions the value of Gregory's seeming abandonment of the pragmatic aspects of life.

The fact that this film is just one long conversation and yet is still gripping material, amazes me. I found the performances wonderful and real, even though the film is over 30 years old. I relate to the character of Wally, who is struggling for work, and feels very washed out and frustrated with life. The dinner with Andre is arguably one of the most fascinating and interesting conversations ever in cinema. They talk about a variety of subjects that is both baffling, yet intriguing to listen to. Andre talks wonderfully about his experiences around the world, as well as his own personal demons inside him. Both give strong performances and really flesh out their characters in great length.

The film is very dialogue heavy, so a lot is left to the imagination of what they say. Its set primarily in one setting, and without any cutaways to additional scenes. I like how intimate it is, and how its a film that doesn't feature much, but is about a lot of things. I came out of this film with such an admiration for it, and what message it was bringing to audiences. Its experimental, but not too experimental to alienate mainstream audiences. Its more a film for an academic audience, and one to discuss with other film fans.

Overall, My Dinner With Andre is a true unique film that stands as a rare unforgettable filmmaking experience.

Rating - 100% - A+

[nebbit]

Nice review :yup: this is a movie I really did enjoy :)

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Mad Money

This was always a film I quite fancied seeing, being drawn by the cast, and the original story attached to it. But does it live up to my expectations ?

Don and Bridget Cardigan's upper middle class lifestyle is threatened since Don, who has been out of work for a year, seems to have given up looking for a job, and housewife Bridget has been out of the workforce for most of her life. They are close to $300,000 in debt. Finding out this information, Bridget comes to the conclusion that she needs to get a job - any job - that at least provides them with some benefits. She reluctantly takes a job as a janitor at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Almost immediately, Bridget is enthralled with all the old worn out money that is being shredded. She comes up with a plan to get her old lifestyle back by stealing much of that money, which she believes is an easy job since the locks used on the money carts are standard equipment and as she notices that no one ever checks the garbage as she goes about her work. Her plan needs the cooperation of one person who works the shredder and one person who pushes the carts of money. The two people she co-opts are single mom Nina Brewster and diabetic, trailer living and constant music listening Jackie Truman. Jackie is easy to convince, but Nina is only convinced when Bridget brings it to her attention that the money would allow her to provide a better education to her two bright sons. Nina vows to kill Bridget if she ever loses her children because of this scheme. As the three woman progress with the plan, it is threatened by: the bank's head of security, a man named Glover, who believes it is impossible to steal money from the reserve; another security guard at the reserve named Barry who seems to be attracted to Nina; Jackie's working class husband Bob who is not used to having money; Don, a conservative man who can't understand being on the wrong side of the law; and Bridget herself who seems to be increasingly focused on getting more and more money with no end in sight, which seems to be diverging from the priorities of her two accomplices.

The film stars Katie Holmes, Queen Latifah & Diane Keaton as they play people with financial troubles, given a rare opportunity to make money. The characters aren't really that interesting, and are mostly driven by the plot's direction. The story itself isn't very exciting, and falls flat at its attempt to portray these characters as normal middle class characters. It all becomes very dull very fast, and doesn't really engage its audience with strong structure or dialogue. Its nothing to do with female characters, but more the situation they are in. A lot of the casting feels very much like stunt casting, just actresses/actors selected because they are recognisable.

Overall, Not a long review but Mad Money is a film that disappoints. Not very well written, or directed and lacks strong characters and story.

Rating - 71% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Not Another Happy Ending

2013 looks set to be a monumental year for Scottish film. Following the success of Pixar Animation’s Brave last year, various small funded Scottish films fast tracked their way into production, in the hopes to build on establishing a sizeable community of Scottish films being made in the country. This year’s Edinburgh International Film Festival has seen four exclusive Scottish films premièring to fresh eyes in the capital of the country, masquerading in a variety of different genres. You have a powerful drama about the slow decay of a Scottish village in the form of Blackbird, A mystery film focusing on one man’s lost memory in For Those In Peril, A Scottish documentary on a Californian rap duo in the form of The Great Hip Hop Hoax, and to round it all up, a Glaswegian romantic comedy, which has been chosen to be the closing gala of this year’s festival. That film is Not Another Happy Ending.

The film stars Scottish lass Karen Gillen, originating from Doctor Who fame, who plays struggling novelist Jane Lockhart, with a quirky personality, and a hipster fashion sense to add to her character. Lockhart succeeds in obtaining a publishing contract with French publisher Tom Duval (Stanley Webber), a stereotypical grumpy Frenchmen who is on hand to make her story better. But what Lockhart hands in, is not what is eventually unveiled to the public. Despite the novel’s success, Lockhart vows to write another novel in order to seek another publisher and be free of Duvall’s grip. But because of the novel’s success and her newly obtained boyfriend (Henry Ian Cusack), she develops writers block, and remains stuck on the final chapter. What soon follows is Duval’s constant attempts to get Lockhart to finish the book and out of his life, which leads him to go to extreme lengths to achieve this. But what actually happens may do the exact opposite altogether.

While not a completely strong film, Not Another Happy Ending has its heart in the right place, and maybe the right film to really kick-start various small films throughout the Scottish land, and provide the country with a real powerful voice by its own inhabitants. The film’s strength lies with an interesting story, and its widely talented cast, with a large majority already achieving success through other projects familiar to British audiences such as Skins, Lost & Doctor Who. The film’s cinematography contains a large unusual use of bright colours across the Glasgow area. Its bizarre to me, as I'm someone who has commuted to Glasgow a lot in my lifetime, and I've always seen it with more a sense of run-down, dirty bitterness, consumed by smoke and congestion. But the film paints over the unpleasant side of Glasgow, and gives the audience a more cultural and artistic view of the city, which works on screen very well.

That being said, the film does contain weak elements that prevents the film from being an all round success. The first is the film’s first act, which is very cluttered and sloppily put together. It contains dialogue which doesn't sound very realistic, and feels more like something you would read in a first draft of a script, rather than the official final draft. While it does have a strong cast, a chunk of the parts have very few screen time. Freya Mayor is a good example. She has a handful of scenes in the film, yet in all of them, she glows brighter than anyone else involved. It’s a talent I was disappointed to see featured so little in the film. Kate Dickie was another one too, given only a handful of scenes, and should really have been featured much more in the story. Another problem is the film’s influence. The film has been said by many to have been influenced by films of Woody Allen, Ken Loach and many other directors who attempt to create simplistic films with a sense of realism and relatable characters the audience can identify with. There’s not really much influence from Woody Allen in this film. In fact, it’s hard to pin point where its influences originate from, as it’s a film in a setting rarely used, as well as a story that’s pretty original and hard to predict where it’s going…for the most part.

But despite its criticisms, it’s a film that is bound to hit an audience. It’s bound to do well in Scotland, as well as the potential to hit well in the UK too. This is down to the popularity of Gillan, the supporting cast, and the sweetness that the film promotes through trailers and posters. The film’s success internationally is another story, but does have the right tools to do some form of business outside the shores of the UK. Whilst the film may not be a massively strong, but it none the less has its heart in the right place, with a powerfully likeable cast, colourful visuals, and a fresh portrait of Glaswegian life and its inner city culture that many people have gotten wrong for such a long time.

Rating - 76% - B+

[MovieMad16]

Just testing as I can't access my latest review I've typed up.

EDIT: Done now.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Breathe In

Drake Doremus continues to shine his rising star in the film world as he premiers his new film Breathe In at the Edinburgh International Film Festival 2013. Returning to the film is Felicity Jones, who co-stars alongside Guy Pierce in a intimate romance film chronicling the stories of two individuals as they begin a special connection. Pierce plays a music teacher, who aspires for greater things in his life other than teaching untalented teenagers the piano and other instruments, whilst Felicty Jones plays a young high school student, who arrives as part of an exchange programme from the UK. What follows is the formation of a special relationship between these two characters that threatens to tear Pierce’s on screen family apart.

Pierce plays Keith Reynolds, a music teacher who aspires for greater things in life. He disguises his dissatisfaction from his wife and daughter with ease, as he attends auditions for a chance at greater success. Pierce plays him strongly, as the character looks rough and quite rigid at the frustration at being stuck in a situation not to his liking, whilst his family are oblivious to what is occurring with him. Felicity Jones soon enters, playing Sophie, a gifted music student who arrives in Upstate New York as part of an exchange programme. For Sophie, it’s a chance to really find herself as it appears events back home have caused her to drift across the home to find herself. She’s lost, but doesn’t isolate herself, and does bond with the family and gets involved with their family life. Throughout the film, the bond between Keith & Sophie closes up, as they begin to share emotional moments and secrets with each other, which leads to very intense scenes throughout the film.

That’s really the film in a nutshell: intense. It’s a film powered by emotion and feelings, as well as characters becoming interlocked in personal battles with other people, as well as themselves. You believe in the relationships being formed, as well as how they react to finding about something, and what they do next to combat those feelings. In particular, a performance highlight comes from relevant newcomer Mackenzie Davies, who plays the daughter Lauren. She has a pretty realistic look and personality for a 21st century teen. Warm, confident and friendly, but could and will ultimately turn on you in a heartbeat. She’s portrayed wonderfully by Mackenzie, who is no doubt beginning her own path to stardom, as Drake did a handful of years ago.

As a filmmaker, Doremus has a real talent for camera work and cinematography. His films look and feel like indie films, ranging from handheld camera work, to cinematography really reflecting the film’s atmosphere, mood, and the emotions and feelings of the central characters featured in the scenes. He also uses music strongly, with memorable classical pieces which help again capture the mood and overall tone of the plot’s pacing. What’s unique about Doremus as a filmmaker is that he is able to juggle all these elements of a film really well, without having one of them slip up and ruin the film entirely.

To sum up, Breathe In continues Drake Doremus’s impressive string of strong independent films that not only tell powerful, captivating stories, but also showcase the possibilities and potentials that independent cinema can achieve, as well as the creativity that can be done on a low budget. With strong performances, packed with the impressive use of camera work and music, it’s a film with a real strong story to tell, added with convincing performances and another and strong A rated film on Drake’s resume.

Rating - 84% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Bling Ring

Very few film-makers can make five films and be widely known and appreciated for their originality, skill, and artistic integrity. It’s even rarer for that film-maker to be a descendant of a previous film-maker of past eras. But for Sofia Coppola, she is exactly that. A woman aided with the three most powerful tools a film-maker can have: a camera, a selection of fingers, and a brain screaming out to the world of how the world is seen through her eyes. Starting in 1999 with The Virgin Suicides, Coppola’s breakout film would soon follow with 2003’s Lost in Translation, before adding Marie Antoinette a handful of years later, before rounding up with 2010’s Somewhere. Now, its 2013 and Coppola has gone in an entire new direction with her latest flick The Bling Ring, one with a new attitude, approach, and atmosphere.

The film centres on the real life Hollywood burglaries and the people behind them. Rising stars Katie Chang and Israel Broussard star as Ringleaders of the group Rebecca & Marc, who both get embroiled in stealing from famous celebrity’s homes in LA. They are joined by other fame obsessed delinquents including Nikki, portrayed by Emma Watson. Elements of the film have been changed, such as the names of the real life culprits, as well as other details from the real life case. Kirsten Dunst & Paris Hilton have quick cameos in the film, with the adding fact that Coppola was given permission to shoot in Paris Hilton’s own house for several scenes in the film.

Whilst I don’t think this is Sofia’s strongest film of her filmography, it’s certainly a new direction for her. Instead of a low beat, melodramatic story about one character’s battle to fit into an alien world, the characters themselves feel very alien to the audience. Compared to the average cinematic audience, they live a life close to luxury, and constantly break rules to ensure that their status in life isn't threatened, or even pursue a greater status in the world around them. What makes this film convincing is the performances of the group. They act well enough for you to buy into the egotistical personalities as they swan around LA, day and night, with god knows what ideas swimming round in their minds.

When it comes to performances in this film, everyone will be talking about Emma Watson: good or bad. Her performance is the complete opposite compared to her previous line of work so far. Watson’s character is an all and out LA party girl, living the glamorous life and enjoying every minute of it. She’s bitchy, smart, outgoing, and when put in hot water, very manipulative when required. And Watson just owns each trait so well. She masters it so well that Hermione Granger becomes a distant memory for us film-goers very quickly. Leslie Mann also has a brilliant supporting performance as a mother engulfed in her own personal world, which gives the impression to audiences that she might be a bit mad.

As I said before though, this isn't Sofia’s strongest film in her filmography. The problem lies with the pacing. Compared to her previous films, the structure of the film tends to be a bit too fast, leaving little time to adjust to the character’s actions and the consequences around them. Plus I don’t find it particularly that powerful compared to her other films. In most of her films, Coppola manages to make you relate to her characters in some way or another. But with The Bling Ring, it’s a bit more difficult due to the main characters economic status and attitudes to life around them. And with the characters so spoilt and uptight, there is little time to really understand why they are doing these actions, and for us to sympathise with them in anyway.

To sum up, The Bling Ring is another strong film by Sofia Coppola, but not the strongest film she’s made. Whilst the film contains strong performances, snappy dialogue, and a bubbly techno pop soundtrack, the film’s pacing and overall themes don’t match as strongly to previous work. It’s still a film though that continues to grow her presence as a strong film making force in modern cinema, and provides Emma Watson with more evidence that she’s an actress with more to offer.

Rating - 85% - A-

[honeykid]

I'm a little interested in this, but you're the first person I've seen/heard say anything good about it. :D

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Midnight In Paris

Watching all of Woody Allen's films is becoming a very interesting experience. There is no doubt Allen is an icon of cinema, but yet his films range from fantastic to Fail with a capital F. However, one of his most recent films proves that Woody Allen, in a very elderly age, can still make imaginative films that capture a strong audience, and as always, lure in new ones.

Gil and Inez travel to Paris as a tag-along vacation on her parents' business trip. Gil is a successful Hollywood writer but is struggling on his first novel. He falls in love with the city and thinks they should move there after they get married, but Inez does not share his romantic notions of the city or the idea that the 1920s was the golden age. When Inez goes off dancing with her friends, Gil takes a walk at midnight and discovers what could be the ultimate source of inspiration for writing. Gil's daily walks at midnight in Paris could take him closer to the heart of the city but further from the woman he's about to marry.

What I love about this film is just how much it makes Paris such a magical place to be in, whether its day or night, past or present. Its a wonderful city that is full of mystery, beauty and passion all rolled into one. Owen Wilson pretty much plays Woody Allen, which is a common theme in his late movies. Never the less, he plays the role very well. Gil is charming, but slightly awkward too. He's frustrated with the direction of his life, and opts for a more relaxing romantic future. I enjoyed Rachel McAdams in this film too, as well as Michael Sheen too, who plays a very snobbish stuck up character. Whilst he's not a villain, he's not particular nice either.

This may also be one of Woody's most creative films. I love the idea of Gil travelling back in time to a more romantic time in Paris. Allen definitely captures the mood and style of the time, as well as the shock of World War I which was still embroiled in many of the people's minds during that time. There are a lot of cameos at this point, including a lovely one by Kathy Bates. Marion Cottilard also has a great part in the film, as a potential love interest of Gil, which plays out in very interesting circumstances.

Overall, Midnight In Paris stands as one of Woody Allen's best and more beautiful films. Its warm, nostlagic, full of imagination and wonder, and is one of the films that can easily lure in a new audience to Woody's work.

Rating - 100% - A+

[nebbit]

Nice review :yup: loved this movie :yup:

[Daniel M]

A great review, I watched this last week and like you I loved it, it really is one of those films where you can feel the magic like the director wants you to, I had so much love for Wilson's character, the Paris city and the delightful cameos of famous people :)

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Star Trek:Into Darkness

The first Star Trek film I really enjoyed (I'll review that eventually). So I was pretty excited for the second film to come out, despite the long anticipation for the flick. Well, after seeing it, my review is here to read.

When the crew of the Enterprise is called back home, they find an unstoppable force of terror from within their own organization has detonated the fleet and everything it stands for, leaving our world in a state of crisis. With a personal score to settle, Captain Kirk leads a manhunt to a war-zone world to capture a one man weapon of mass destruction. As our heroes are propelled into an epic chess game of life and death, love will be challenged, friendships will be torn apart, and sacrifices must be made for the only family Kirk has left: his crew.

The film overall is very exciting and is a real treat for general treckie fans. I found the story really intriguing and hooked me in very well. It takes aspects of a previous Star Trek fan, and does well into moulding its very own linear and universe out of it. Performances are very good, especially from Benedict Cumberbatch. The Film's PR is based mostly on him, so a lot of pressure was on him to deliver. And of course he was great, playing a very calculating character, with his own agenda and motive to achieve.

Whilst I did enjoy this film, I didn't think it was as good as the first Star Trek film. I guess it was just more of the surprise that we saw in the first film, that come the second, there was a lot more hype surrounding this one. But saying that, it does stand alone as its own flick, and the box office proves that.

Overall, Into Darkness is a solid sequel that stands out well and proceeds to take Star Trek into new exciting directions.

Rating - 84% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Scoop

Each Woody Allen I encounter, the more respect and admiration I have for the filmmaker. Making small budget films with huge imagination and intriguing plots. This in my opinion is one of his most underrated.

In the funeral of the famous British journalist Joe Strombel, his colleagues and friends recall how obstinate he was while seeking for a scoop. Meanwhile the deceased Joe discloses the identity of the tarot card serial killer of London. He cheats the Reaper and appears to the American student of journalism Sondra Pransky, who is on the stage in the middle of a magic show of the magician Sidney Waterman in London, and tells her that the murderer is the aristocrat Peter Lyman. Sondra drags Sid in her investigation, seeking for evidences that Peter is the killer. However, she falls in love with him and questions if Joe Strombel is right in his scoop.

When it comes to light hearted comedies, Allen really does hit them well. This is a film that left me with a real smile on my face, and didn't seem to take itself too seriously. I love Hugh Jackman in this film. He plays a very mysterious yet relaxing character, you know deep down is bad, but he's just too warm and loving to resist. Scarlett Johansson is also very good in this, playing a very geeky charming character. And also of course Woody Allen is very good in this, despite the fact he is playing the same character in every film: himself.

That being said, Its not one of Woody's greatest films. But its better than people give it credit for. I enjoyed the silliness of it, as well as the light hearted fun in keeping to grips with the mystery. I understand why people would get fustrated with this film though, but for what it is, its a really fun film from Allen, and to me one that will grow in appreciation as the years go on.

Overall, Scoop is one of my favourite Woody Allen films and one of his most underrated. Great script, charming acting, and a real crowdpleaser.

Rating - 85% - A-

[nebbit]

Nice review :yup: own and like this movie :)

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Match Point

Seeing as I recently saw Scoop, I felt it was right to watch Allen's previous film featuring Scarlett. Woody Allen opts for a new genre, rather than stick to what he does best. This is more drama heavy rather than light dramedy.

Chris Wilton is a former tennis pro, looking to find work as an instructor. He meets Tom Hewett, a well-off pretty boy. Tom's sister Chloe falls in love with Chris but Chris has his eyes on Tom's fiancée, the luscious Nola. Both Chris and Nola know it's wrong but what could be more right than love? Chris tries to juggle both women but at some point, he must choose between them.

This film is very different from most Woody Allen films I've seen. Instead of there being a light hearted atmosphere and tone, its much more serious and grey than anything I've seen before. I thought the characters were very realistic and seem to really blend in well with contemporary London. Performances were very strong, and the dialogue for the first time didn't feel like Woody Allen was writing himself, which he usually does in his films. Emily Mortimer is a highlight for me as she is one of those natural actresses that could walk down the street without being recognised. I like how naive she is about her husband's actions and whenever she gets some sort of suspicion, she just scrubs it off and thinks nothing of it. Scarlett Johansson is also very good in this film, playing a down on her luck actress with nothing achieved in her life. She's a nice character, with a lot of dreams and aspirations. But upon encountering Jonathan Rhys Meyers, she is embroiled in a web of lies and deceit that could only end badly for her.

The story is itself good, but falls apart near the end. I won't reveal the ending if you haven't seen it, but I felt it could have been done better and maybe more ambiguous than how it was originally done. It was so abrupt and quick too. We never had proper time to understand what was going on in Rhys Meyers head. There was that dream scene near the end, but it was too quick and never gave us a clear idea of what he was feeling.

Overall, Match Point is a good film, but not a great film. It contained strong performances, but a mixed plot that could have been better.

Rating - 80% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Percy Jackson & The Lighting Thief

This is seen by many to be a rip off to the Harry Potter franchise. But to me, I think it can stand out as its own without being picked upon too much.

When his lightning bolt is stolen, Zeus accuses Poseidon's son Percy Jackson and gives Poseidon's son fourteen days to return it, otherwise he will initiate a war amongst the gods. Meanwhile the teenager, Percy, who is dyslexic and has ADHD is visiting The Museum of Metropolitan of Art and is attacked by a Fury disguised in his teacher. His crippled best friend Grover reveals that Percy is a demigod and that he is his protector and his teacher Mr Brunner gives him a pen telling him that it is a powerful weapon. They go to Percy's house and together with his mother Sally they drive to the Camp Half-Blood. However Sally is attacked by a Minotaur and vanishes before Percy can help her. In the camp, Percy befriends the gorgeous Annabeth; when they are attacked by Hades who wants the lighting bolt for himself, Percy discovers that his mother is in the Underworld with Hades. Percy decides to travel on a dangerous quest to retrieve the lightning bolt and save his mother. Grover and Annabeth .

This film is enjoyable. While it is flawed and feels very lifeless at times, I came out much more happy with it than I originally thought. I enjoyed the effects in this film, as they managed to deliver a good atmosphere to the story. I thought the acting from the main three was well done, in particular from Alexandra Daddario who plays Annabeth. Logan Lerman as the lead was convincing enough and is a strong performer and possible future star in the Hollywood game. However the supporting performances didn't light me up that much. I felt they were acting mostly with dollar signs in their eyes, in particular Uma Thurman.

Overall, Percy Jackson is a solid kids film with a lot of promise, yet still needs time to develop its world and characters.

Rating - 70% - B

[nebbit]

Not a fan of the Lightening thief :nope:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Gangster Squad

From the director of Zombieland, comes a very different project all together. A period gangster film starring a host of the upcoming Hollywood IT crowd, as well as established stars with strong credits and acclaim behind them. But does Gangster Squad really live up to its strong cast ?

It's 1949 Los Angeles, and gangster Mickey Cohen has moved in, with the intention of controlling all criminal activity in the city. He has bought local judges and police, and no one is willing to cross him or testify against him. Everyone except Seargant John O'Mara, a former World War II soldier, whose goal is to settle with his family in a peaceful Los Angeles. Police Chief William Parker decides to form a special unit whose mission is to take down Cohen, and chooses O'Mara to lead the unit. O'Mara chooses 4 cops and asks another cop and vet, Jerry Wooters to join him but Wooters is not interested. But when he witnesses the murder of a young boy by Cohen's people, he joins them, and they decide to take apart Cohen's organization.

This film is very fun and enjoyable to say the least. The costumes are well designed, the cinematography well done, and all the acting in this film really does deliver. There's some debate on whether Sean Penn's performance was good or bad, but in my opinion, it was definitely fun to watch, and brought out some reaction from me, even though it was neither good or bad. I also found Emma Stone underwelming in this film for once, and she was one of the big reasons for me seeing this film.

I thought the script overall was quite weak. It was a good idea and based on a book, but felt very generic and had a "seen it all before" attitude to it. I didn't really see anything new in this film that I had seen in other crime films roughly in that early period. The film reminded me alot of Public Enemies in the set up and some of the car chases that took place.

Yet Overall, Gangster Squad is a solid flick with a rental all over it. It has a good plot, but nothing spectacular. But you should really see it for the cast and the creative production behind it.

Rating - 71% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Corman's World: Exploits Of A Hollywood Rebel

Roger Corman redefined cinema. Yet nobody never really knows his name. Not really anyway. This documentary is a great capture of one of the most busiest, most hard working filmmakers ever in the business.

Corman's influence is incredible. The amount of talent on and off the camera ranges throughout the years. Responsible for such icons such as Robert De Niro & Jack Nicholson, as well as giving established filmmakers their first break including Martin Scorsese, James Cameron & Ron Howard.

The film gives us a glimpse at his work, which ranges from many different genres, and tackles many incredible themes, that challenged american audiences, and almost lost him his entire career. Some of his films I'm really keen of getting a hold of and watching for myself. Hollywood Boulevard in particular stands out to me the most.

Overall, Corman's World is a great documentary about the history of one of America's most underrated talents. Its a film with a lot of great insight, guests and footage of some of B cinema's treasures.

Rating - 100% - A+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Twilight Saga:Eclipse

Its a franchise that has slowly began to won me over. But not in a these-are-masterpieces kind of way. More like I-admire-them-for-what-they-are flicks. Eclipse for what it is, is quite entertaining if you can bear with it.

Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger as Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob -- knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella is confronted with the most important decision of her life.

I for one think the story is quite entertaining. The idea of seeing the wolves and vampires form some sort of superteam and fight off the "bad" vampires was a nice fun story. Granted its poorly put together, as well as the fact there there's a subplot which goes nowhere, but none the less didn't keep me from strangling myself throughout this film.

The love triangle too was ok, and not as annoying as people make it out to be. Its acted decently and it pretty much drives the story. Plus, its kind of fan picking sides. I already know who I'd be rooting for.

Overall, Eclipse is the best out of a really cheesy bunch. That being said, I haven't seen the last two films yet, so maybe my opinion will change.

Rating - 61% - B

[honeykid]

I wouldn't call Corman underrated. He does what he does very well indeed, but anyone with even a sniff of low budget filmmaking knows of the man.

Neither would I say he's "responsible" for Nicholson or De Niro.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Song For Marion

I really love homegrown British films that showcase the nice light hearted side of the country, rather than just gritty crime films that are just very repetitive and cliche. Song For Marion is a step away from those films, and tells a rather interesting and nice relaxing story. But is the film any good?

"Song for Marion", a London-set comedic drama, is about shy, grumpy pensioner Arthur who is reluctantly inspired by his beloved wife Marion to join a highly unconventional local choir. At odds with his son James, it is left to charismatic choir director Elizabeth to try and persuade Arthur that he can learn to embrace life. Arthur must confront the undercurrents of his own grumbling persona as he embarks on a hilarious, life-affirming journey of musical self discovery.

The first thing I really like about this film is the cast. Its a very well recognised selection of actors. You have strong veterans/established talent such as Terrance Stamp and Christopher Eccleston, along with some of the newer British stars such as Gemma Arterton. They deliver in their roles very well, and help to create a very relaxing warm tone to the story. The story has its sad moments mixed in with his happy flow, but its a positive message that is stamped in the film, and focuses on themes such as friendship, love, as well as death and loneliness.

I thought Paul Andrew Williams did a good job with this film, in terms of the script and the direction. Its not the best British film ever made, but its not the worst or most annoying. It does demonstrate a strong emerging talent as well as the ability that light British films still have a place in British cinema.

Overall, Song For Marion is a nice film to rent out. If your a fan of British films with a strong heart, then this might be for you.

Rating - 75% - B+

[honeykid]

I really love homegrown British films that showcase the nice light hearted side of the country, rather than just gritty crime films that are just very repetitive and cliche.
I agree that the crime thrillers are often repetitive and cliche, but I find stuff like this just as often to be repetitive and cliche. Brassed Off, The Full Monty, Happy Go Lucky, Made In Dagenham, Billy Elliot, etc They're not bad or wrong, I just find it difficult to get excited about seeing these kinds of films. I'd like to see A Song For Marion. I'm sure it's a nice little film, but it's something I'd probably only see if it appeared in front of me.

Have you seen Quartet? They came out fairly close to each other and seem to be traveling along similar lines. I have it, but I've not seen it yet.

[MovieMad16]

Its easy to say the exact same thing to light hearted British films. Crime films though are just seen to be what British do best. But most are very much the same, and recently they have been very poorly done. You can bring more originality out of light hearted Brit flicks, as well as test out new genres. British crime films are more difficult to keep making original.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Waiting For Superman

I didn't really expect to have high hopes for this film. But upon seeing the trailer and buying the DVD, it was a film that was slowly building on me.

Filmmaker Davis Guggenheim reminds us that education "statistics" have names: Anthony, Francisco, Bianca, Daisy, and Emily, whose stories make up the engrossing foundation of WAITING FOR SUPERMAN. As he follows a handful of promising kids through a system that inhibits, rather than encourages, academic growth, Guggenheim undertakes an exhaustive review of public education, surveying "drop-out factories" and "academic sinkholes," methodically dissecting the system and its seemingly intractable problems.

This to me is one of the best documentaries I've ever seen in a long time. Its a real eye opener on how messed up the US education system really is. David captures multiple stories that are tangled in a mess of problems caused by other people, as well as capturing perfectly the class system that is engulfed inside the education system. Tragic real life stories are shown of hard working young children who deserve the best education possible, but certain situations prevent them otherwise.

Its a real emotion ride and well made and well told throughout. The contributors are informative and real, and feel like they genuinely are fighting a very difficult battle to help the next generation on their path to their dream career. Its also a film that resonates to me the importance of teachers and how valuable they are to society. You may not realise it when your younger, but once you grow up, especially when you become a parent, they will become crucial to your children's futures and may even inspire them.

Overall, Waiting For Superman is a wonderful documentary, but also very harrowing and real. There's very few happy moments, and when they occur, your just grateful that they happened at all.

Rating - 100% - A+

[honeykid]

Its easy to say the exact same thing to light hearted British films. Crime films though are just seen to be what British do best. But most are very much the same, and recently they have been very poorly done. You can bring more originality out of light hearted Brit flicks, as well as test out new genres. British crime films are more difficult to keep making original.
I agree with you and, for the most part, I'd rather watch the light-hearted British film, than the British crime film. I don't know that I agree that the light hearted can "bring more originality" though, unless you include the situation.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Husbands & Wives

With Woody Allen's latest film Blue Jasmine causing a lot of press around the world, I felt it was time to explore two more of Woody Allen's work which has had its own unique impact on me. The first of which is Woody Allen's most controversial work, and one in which the events behind the camera seem to cause the most drama.

When Jack and Sally announce that they're splitting up, this comes as a shock to their best friends Gabe and Judy. Maybe mostly because they also are drifting apart and are now being made aware of it. So while Jack and Sally try to go on and meet new people, the marriage of Gabe and Judy gets more and more strained, and they begin to find themselves being attracted to other people.

There's a lot of things I really like about this film, as well as a lot of things that make me dislike it too. But I'll start with what I like.

The first thing was the way it was shot. I loved the documentary feel of the film, and its raw way of shooting. Its very unusual for Allen, yet very new at the same time. There's rarely any cuts in his scenes, and when they are, they feel unfinished or incomplete. Like they've miss a huge chunk of the scene and land straight in a part which feels wrong. I also think the performances are well done too, particularly from Sydney Pollock who I feel never got his true recognition in the business.

What I didn't like is minimum, but none the less there. The film itself felt kind of dry, lacking any real creative juices that you usually see in other Allen films. The film lacks imagination and is just focused on characters with no magical plot that Allen is so well known for. New York City isn't magical in this film. In fact, its barely featured. You can just tell its NYC due to the locations and accents, as well as the attitudes of the characters.

Overall, Husbands & Wives is a good film, but not one of Allen's best. I do think its quite underrated compared to other films I've seen over the years. Give it a watch.

Rating - 84% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Good Night & Good Luck

One of those films recommended to me by a friend, as well as a fascination by anything George Clooney makes behind the camera.

In the early 1950's, the threat of Communism created an air of paranoia in the United States and exploiting those fears was Senator Joseph McCarthy of Wisconsin. However, CBS reporter Edward R. Murrow and his producer Fred W. Friendly decided to take a stand and challenge McCarthy and expose him for the fear monger he was. However, their actions took a great personal toll on both men, but they stood by their convictions and helped to bring down one of the most controversial senators in American history.

There are many things I really like about this film. Firstly is the black and white cinematography, which easily captures the 50s atmosphere its trying to create. I really love also the dialogue in this film. Its very real and very natural, and really builds personalities within the characters, even if they are real life people. Its a film that's very nostalgic with its time period, its costumes as is the story and language of the TV business in a long ago time. The performances are wonderful, especially from David Strathairn who I found incredibly convincing as Edward R Murrow. There are great supporting performances from Patricia Clarkson, Robert Downey Jr, George Clooney and many, and I mean many, others in this film.

The disadvantages are that its a very talky film, and will easily alienate young audiences, unless they really engage with the source material. The Black and White element may also alienate young audiences, who aren't interested in these films, or are just not used to them. This is a film targeted more at older audiences, with a specialist to fans of news and nostalgia.

Overall, Good Night & Good Luck is a very intriguing film about a certain point in American history where good and evil clashed, yet nobody knew which was which. It was a time of fear, paranoia and whispers, but a film about the truth, censorship, and self belief.

Rating - 87% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Only God Forgives

After seeing the fantastic Drive, me and my dad were eager to see the latest collaboration between Ryan Gosling and director Nicolas Winding Refn. The results were, in my opinion, pretty spectacular.

Bangkok. Ten years ago Julian killed a man and went on the run. Now he manages a Thai boxing club as a front for a drugs operation. Respected in the criminal underworld, deep inside, he feels empty. When Julian's brother murders an underage prostitute, the police call on retired cop Chang - the Angel of Vengeance. Chang allows the father to kill his daughter's murderer, then 'restores order' by chopping off the man's right hand. Julian's mother Crystal - the head of a powerful criminal organization - arrives in Bangkok to collect her son's body. She dispatches Julian to find his killers and 'raise hell'.

This film is a very bizarre entry for Refn. It reminds me of a Stanley Kubrick film, in which its very heavy on atmosphere, cinematography, and lighting. The story is very dark and bloody, with a lot of grimness and revenge at the centre of the tail, as well as the fact that there are no true good guys in this film. Its a film about the darkest of minds, as well as the most psychotic. Its a street war for control of many things. Gosling's performance is note worthy, as he delivers a cold merciless character, who is out of his depth, in a battle he cannot possibly win. Kristin Scott Thomas plays the mother of Gosling, and does a fantastic job in the process, playing a woman whose main goal is to seek vengeance for his other son's death. There's a really excellent performance from unknown actress Yayaying Rhatha Phongam, who like Gosling, is caught in the midst of a brutal war on the streets of Bangkok. But the star of the film goes to Vithaya Pansringarm. He plays what is meant to be the villain of the film. But really, I consider him the hero of the story. He's the one that gets screwed over, and understandingly, wants revenge on those who have wronged him. He does dark things don't get me wrong, but with a cause you really end up understanding. His performance is really done through facial expressions, and just how cold they are. Its powerful, and scary at the same time.

Overall, Only God Forgives is a film to be seen. Its an experience in many ways. One that will leave you with intriguing thoughts.

Rating - 100% - A+

[Mmmm Donuts]

Wow, I'm impressed that you loved Only God Forgives so much! Visually and auditorily, it's one of the best of the year, but will be overlooked at the Oscars, as usual.

Refn could have strengthened the plot a bit more imo, but like you said, it's an experience, not just a story.

But I did love so many scenes in this movie. One of the most memorable movies of the year.

Great review man, keep em coming!

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Blue Jasmine

Woody Allen's latest flick sees him go into a very familiar yet new area. Its a film that tries to combine comedy with a pinch of grit into his stories. And with Blue Jasmine, he does a good job in succeeding.

Cate Blanchett plays A New York socialite, deeply troubled and in denial, who arrives in San Francisco to impose upon her sister. With no money, she's forced to start again, as we go backwards to discover what led to her delicate downfall.

One of the strengths in this film is Blanchett herself. Such a brilliant performance for a really intriguing character. A woman who isn't really that likeable, and is too lazy to actually go out and earn her keep. She's spoiled and not really that bright, and so retreats to her adoptive sister to refuel. Sally Hawkins delivers a great supporting performance and does well in keeping up with Blanchett in certain scenes. More great supporting performances include; Louis CK, who plays a real douchebag of a character; Alec Baldwin, Jasmine's husband who is responsible for the good chunk of events that occur throughout the film; Bobby Cannavale, who plays Sally Hawkin's boyfriend; and Peter Sarsgaard, as a potential love interest for Jasmine.

What's different about this film, is that is shows the lower class for once. Allen rarely goes down this path, opting to show the wealthier side of humanity in his films. But for once, he shows a character's fall from grace, physiologically and financially. Its a new approach for Allen, yet one he gets across very well with his characters, particularly Jasmine.

Overall, Blue Jasmine is a strong film by Allen, with a powerful lead performance by Blanchett, Strong supporting performances and a intriguing story that will grasp audiences interest.

Rating - 84% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...All About Steve

Panned by literally every critic that saw it, All About Steve was the film that earned Sandra Bullock her very own Razzie award. So why do I like it so much?

Mary Horowitz writes crossword puzzles for the Sacramento Herald. She's loquacious to a fault. When kids at a career day make fun of her for being single, she accepts a blind date with Steve, the cameraman for a CNN-like news network. Within minutes she decides he's the man for her. He's quickly put off by her constant verbiage and over-the-top advances; he makes an off-hand remark about going on the road with her, and splits. She's moonstruck, writes a sappy crossword puzzle, loses her job, and decides to follow him as the news team crisscrosses the Southwest; Steve's team eggs her on. Then she falls in a mine shaft, and she and Steve become a story; is it a love story?

So your probably still in shock into the stunning confession of me liking this film. So you want to know why? Well, the primary reason is really Sandra Bullock and her character. Mary Horowitz is either a character you really love, or really hate. In this case I like her, due to the fact that there are so many traits that connect her with Aspergers Syndrome. Bullock's performance is cooky, but in a fun cooky rather than a nuts cooky. She's a character full of spirit and full of optimism who doesn't let anything negative tamper with her spirits. And I really respect that in a character, particularly with a woman. The male characters (And sadly the supporting) are all pretty dull, with the exception of Thomas Haden Church who does well as the unpleasant news reporter. Bradley Cooper sadly doesn't do much and just plays the standard love interest, with a somewhat personality.

I also like the humour to people's amazement. Its a mixture of black comedy and slapstick, but not over the top slapstick that makes you cringe inside. I think the reason many people hated this movie was probably the humour and how unbalanced it was, as well as maybe clunky dialogue. I'll defend it though with its strong funny female character, and the fact that it had good humour at points.

Overall, while it could have been a better movie, All About Steve is still something to check and to give credit at the right moments.

Rating - 61% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Chalet Girl

Chalet Girl was one of those British films you could tell put quantity over quality. It just looked that way given the advertising and posters. But either way, I ended up buying the DVD and watching the film. But was it any good?

Pretty tomboy Kim Matthews, 19, used to be a champion skateboarder - but now she's stuck in a dead end job trying to support her Dad. Opportunity comes knocking in the form of a catering job in the one of the most exclusive chalets in the Alps. At first, Kim's baffled by this bizarre new world of posh people, champagne and skiing - but then she discovers snowboarding, and the chance to win some much-needed prize money at the big end-of-season competition. But before she can become a champion again, Kim's going to have to dig deep to overcome her fears.

For what its worth, Chalet Girl is a good Brit flick. Its not a masterpiece, but its good enough to serve as a vehicle for Felicity Jones, as she's the most interesting thing in this film. She gives a convincing performance and makes this film her own. Ed Westwick is decent in it and its nice to see him in something new alongside Gossip Girl. Supporting performances aren't that memorable sadly, even Bill Nighy isn't really that good in it. The story is ok, but its what you expect for this sort of film. B rated and nothing else.

Overall, Chalet Girl is a nice rental, but nothing else really to make it stand out.

Rating - 64% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Cemetery Junction

Ricky Gervais has been one to win over a small audience. A smart well educated audience who understand his comedy. In 2010, he and Steven Merchant made what is in my opinion, his best work to date.

It's 1973 in Cemetery Junction, a Reading suburb. Three working class lads, best friends, are coming of age. Freddie wants to rise above his station, taking a job selling life insurance, wearing a suit and tie. Snork works at the railway station and wants a girlfriend some day. Bruce talks of leaving but seems on track to work at a factory, drink and fight, and become like his dad, in front of the telly with beer on hand; and he's trying the patience of the police officer who gets him out of jams. Freddie's job leads the lads toward a few small changes. He runs across a childhood friend, Julie, his boss's daughter who's engaged to the firm's top seller. Can the lads break out?

This is in my opinion one of the most underrated films I've ever seen. For starters, I love the take on the coming of age story. Its not overdone and its a very realistic take on it, with fleshed out identifiable characters you relate with. Christian Cooke is great in the lead, and has great chemistry with Felicity Jones. Felicity's character is full of hope and aspiration, which is being threatened by the culture that women led in the 70s during that era. Tom Hughes also does a real blinder of a performance which is both funny and tragic. Ricky Gervais & Ralph Fiennes both give great performances in what is considered small roles. But to me, the highlight performance goes to Steve Speirs, an actor I just absolutely adore and have seen pop up time and time again. He has such a great personality and one that you really want to see over and over again.

Despite the fact its such a downbeat film, it has a warm mood to it and you leave the film with such a smile on your face. Gervais & Merchant's screenplay and direction is terrific and you actually buy the fact that this is 70s rural England.

Overall, Cemetery Junction is a film I highly recommend you see as it has all the makings of a Cult British classic. Top notch performances, great story and well directed. Its a perfect score for me.

Rating - 100% - A+

[Daniel M]

Nice review, never seen anybody else really discuss the film although I have seen it a couple of times. My memory's not that good though, it has been a while since I did see it last, but I do remember liking it, definitely more so than The Invention of Lying which seems to get more praise.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Hannah & Her Sisters

Not long ago, I went and bought close to a dozen of Woody Allen films. So expect many more reviews of the marvel of movies himself. I now present you with my next review of his works. This is one of his most loved films, in terms of box office and acclaim.

During a Thanksgiving Day party we make acquaintance with a numerous and problematic family. The leading characters are three sisters: Lee, the woman of Frederick, an old misanthrope painter; Holly, who dreams of becoming a writer, or an actress, or who knows who...; Hannah, famous actress, beautiful, intelligent, good mother, good wife, good sister, in short perfect, the pivot of the family. The balance begins to break up when Hannah's husband, Elliot, falls in love with Lee, who leaves Frederick. Holly goes through a deep crisis and meets Mickey, the former husband of Hannah, a hypochondriac TV producer.

I enjoyed this film very much, yet I didn't love it as many film fanatics did. The first thing to say is that I really liked the ensemble involved. Many good characters to know and Woody Allen has written them all really really well. My favourite had to be Dianne West's character, whose going through life one mistake at a time, hoping that she can find some form of peace with her life. Michael Caine also does really well as Elliot and of course Woody Allen is very funny and quirky in this too.

I didn't feel however that this would be one of my favourite Woody Allen films. Its one that you admire really much, but there isn't a particular scene or moment that touches you as much as the various other Woody Allen films that he's made. Everything works, but it just doesn't to me have that magic that other of his films do.

Overall, Hannah & Her Sisters is a good solid film, but one in my opinion I rate highly on the list.

Rating - 75% - B+

[nebbit]

Nice review :yup: I am a big Woody Allen Fan :yup:

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Saving Mr Banks

I'll make a confession to you right now. Are you ready? Here it is...I haven't seen Mary Poppins. No really, I haven't. So going into this film, I went him with my mind wide open, without being a fan of the book nor film of Mary Poppins. When I left, I am eager now to see the Disney cinematic gem to give my view on it. All because of this film.

When Walt Disney's daughters begged him to make a movie of their favourite book, P.L. Travers' "Mary Poppins," he made them a promise - one that he didn't realize would take 20 years to keep. In his quest to obtain the rights, Walt comes up against a curmudgeonly, uncompromising writer who has absolutely no intention of letting her beloved magical nanny get mauled by the Hollywood machine. But, as the books stop selling and money grows short, Travers reluctantly agrees to go to Los Angeles to hear Disney's plans for the adaptation. For those two short weeks in 1961, Walt Disney pulls out all the stops. Armed with imaginative storyboards and chirpy songs from the talented Sherman brothers, Walt launches an all-out onslaught on P.L. Travers, but the prickly author doesn't budge. He soon begins to watch helplessly as Travers becomes increasingly immovable and the rights begin to move further away from his grasp.

First thing to say is that the performances in this film are golden. Emma Thompson captures perfectly the loneliness, bitterness and snobby personality of PL Travers. She is someone who looks down at the medium of cinema and is constantly in charge of the creative process, to see fit her true vision of what she wants the film to be. Tom Hanks is also good as Walt Disney. Not perfect, but good enough to buy into. The Supporting cast also deliver and give the film that little extra charm and nostalgia to it, making you really think your in 1960s LA.

Second thing is the flashbacks in Australia. There are real tearjearker moments which really made you feel sympathy for PL Travers and what she had gone through so young in her life. Colin Farrell was on high form for this film, playing a broken man trying to keep things all together. As well as special recognition going to Annie Rose Buckley for playing a young PL Travers when she was a young girl. A real stellar performance that makes her a bright young prospect for the future.

Overall, Saving Mr Banks I felt was a strong film that has heightened my interest in Mary Poppins and what Disney's final product has done to many generations. Maybe one day down the line, you'll see a Mary Poppins review sometime soon.

Rating - 94% - A

[honeykid]

I'd like to see this for the performances of Thompson and Hanks, which have been uniformly praised to the hilt. I know it doesn't matter with this film, but I really don't like Mary Poppins and that does count against this film. I'm not sure I'd go so far as to say I hate it, but I probably would if I saw it again, because I've not seen it for so many years.

Do you think you'll like it, MM? From what you know about it and your thought about similar films?

[Gideon58]

First, I have to say that I'm blown away by the fact that you have never seen MARY POPPINS...it is absolutely my favorite movie of all time, so it surprises me that you would even have any interest in seeing SAVING MR. BANKS and I'm impressed that you did. Loved your review of the film and made me even more anxious to see it. I have attached my review of MARY POPPINS:



After losing the role of Eliza in the film version of MY FAIR LADY, Julie Andrews got sweet revenge and an Oscar for her film debut in 1964's MARY POPPINS, a dazzling, enchanting family musical which was personally overseen by Walt Disney himself, who hand-picked Andrews for the title role.

Based on the books by P.L. Travers, this film centers around the Banks family of London 1912, whose most recent Nanny (Elsa Lanchester)has just quit after the children (Matthew Garber, Karen Dotrice)have run away again chasing an out of control kite.

George Banks (David Tomlinson)begins to advertise for a new Nanny when the children come to him with their own advertisement, which George dismisses, tears up, and throws in the fireplace. We then see the pieces of the children's advertisement float up the fireplace. Enter Mary Poppins (Andrews), the "practically perfect" who arrives to interview for the job with the children's advertisement in her hand, all taped together.

What follows are a wonderful series of adventures including a magical housecleaning of the nursery, a tea party on the ceiling, a country holiday in a sidewalk chalk drawing, and a dance session on the rooftops of London with about 100 chimney sweeps.

This is movie magic at its zenith, and it is just as entertaining now as it was 50 years ago. It is a definitely a family film, but there are lovely adult touches in the screenplay...I love the way it is implied that Mary and Bert (Dick Van Dyke), the chimney sweep/jack-of-all-trades, have met before this movie takes place but it is never really discussed. I also love the way Mary never admits to having any kind of magic powers and after each adventure tells the children it was all in their imagination.

This was the most memorable example of mixing live action with animation during the "Jolly Holiday" scene, which is absolutely delightful.

The sublime musical score includes "A Spoonful of Sugar", "Chim Chim Cheree" (which won the Oscar for Best Song), "Step in Time", and of course "Supercalifragilistiexpialidocious."

Andrews and Van Dyke are given solid support from Tomlinson and Glynis Johns as Mr. and Mrs. Banks, Hermione Baddeley as their maid, Reta Shaw as their cook, Ed Wynn as Uncle Albert, and Arthur Treacher as a Constable.


If you have never seen this film, or more importantly, if your kids have never seen it, go out and get the DVD today because this film continues to enchant generation after generation because it is the perfect family film.

[MovieMad16]

To Honeykid

I was never really that bothered about Mary Poppins until seeing Saving Mr Banks. I understand a lot of people liked it, but I never had the impression that it was so beloved by so many people. Now after seeing SMB and doing research on PL Travers, I'm eager to see the film and give my overall thoughts on it.

To Gideon58

Thanks for your review. It was a good read. Hopefully I'll be able to see the film soon and give a much needed review for the site.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

The second in the acclaimed and popular Hunger Games Series premièred to huge audiences last November. Seeing this on the first day of release, Its taken me a bit of time to come to a conclusion of whether I like it or not.

A year after winning the 74th Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen and her partner, Peeta Mellark must go on what is known as the Victor's Tour wherein they visit all the districts. But before leaving, Katniss is visited by President Snow who fears that Katniss defied him a year ago during the games when she chose to die with Peta. With both Katniss and Peeta declared the winners, it is fueling a possible uprising. He tells Katniss that while on tour she better try to make sure that she puts out the flames or else everyone she cares about will be in danger. But unfortunately she fails to do that. So Snow decides to enact what is known as the Quarter Quell, the right to make a change to the Hunger Games, which he is allowed to do every 25 years. He decides to hold an edition of the Hunger Games wherein previous winners will compete again. Their mentor Haymitch thinks their best chance to survive is form an alliance with some of the others. They decide to align themselves with Finnick and his partner, Mags. But Snow is secretly hoping Katniss will be killed.

There's a lot in this film that really works. The production really extends and shows you more of the fictional world invented by Suzanne Collins. Its a very grim environment, in which society is plagued by fear and authority in order for the most powerful to get what they want. Katniss in this film is seen as a figure of freedom, and many rally round her despite her reluctance to take that symbol on. Jennifer Lawrence's performance is very strong and she carries the film very well, along with a strong supporting cast such as Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Donald Sutherland.

The action scenes in the film are much more intense than the first, but also much more controlled and not as shaky as the first. The camera work on the first film was all over the place, and at points you couldn't even see what was going on. In this film, its easier to see as well as digest exactly what is going on on screen. The new additions to the series also work well, especially Jena Malone who plays Johanna Mason. She has a really funny entrance and is a really strong presence on screen.

Overall, Catching Fire is a strong sequel with advantages and disadvantages to its first edition. Its fun, frightening and fulfilling in many ways.

Rating - 85% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Sleeping Beauty

A small indie film that is very odd and surreal to sit through. Starring Emily Browning, Sleeping Beauty looks at sex, prostitution and class in a very new way.

Lucy is a university student who is working a number of jobs. She volunteers at a research lab, works at a coffee shop, and as a photocopy clerk in an office. She responds to an advertisement and embarks on an erotic freelance job in which she is required to sleep in bed alongside paying customers.

The film is a very bizarre film, looking deep into upper class sex work and what young women go through for the pleasure of others. Emily Browning gives a very strong, but cold performance of a young Australian student, struggling to earn her way. She ends up going into very dark and dangerous situations, all the while exposing herself to horny customers, much to her humiliation. The supporting cast are good too. Rachael Blake plays Clara, who is the pimp of Emily Browning's character. Not much is known about her, but her prescience feels very threatening and I think the fact that she is such a mystery to everyone around her, makes her much more fascinating a character.

With that though, there are a handful of problems. One would be that I never really cared for the character that Emily Browning kept visiting at the flat. Quite a pointless relationship that never played any part in the story. I also felt the film lacked music, and lacked any real emotion either. It was all very cold and motionless, with only the ending really being the emotional highpoint.

Overall, Sleeping Beauty has its flaws, but contains good ideas and visuals that should really be worth seeing.

Rating - 70% - B

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Alice

One of Woody Allen's least known films, made at the turn of the decade (89-90). Mia Farrow stars as an intriguing but predictable Woody Allen character, and the result is a somewhat solid film in Allen's filmography.

Alice Tate, mother of two, with a marriage of 16 years, finds herself falling for the handsome sax player, Joe. Stricken with a backache, she consults Dr. Yang, an oriental herbalist who realizes that her problems are not related to her back, but in her mind and heart. Dr. Yang's magical herbs give Alice wondrous powers, taking her out of well-established rut.

Mia Farrow in this film is the person who has to carry it for the most part. Her character is the most intriguing and watch able throughout the story. You root for her as well as scoff at her at the same time. While she has layers however, they aren't original and quite predictable. Other performances include Joe Mantegna, who does a solid job as Alice's love interest Joe, a sax player who lures Alice in. One character of concern is Dr. Yang played by Keye Luke. I kind of feel this is a character based purely on a stereotype, with no attempt by Allen to make this character original in anyway. Its very annoying, but not offputting. I enjoyed the story a lot, and while being basic, really was character driven and flowed at a very careful pace.

Overall, Alice is a strong film by Allen, but not one of his best. It has good strong performances, an easy story to follow and has an enjoyable feel to it.

Rating - 80% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Stand By The Closing Doors

Autism in cinema is a very tough and touchy subject to tackle. Many films in the past have tackled the subject with a more humorous, light hearted tone (Adam, Rain Man etc). But with Stand By The Closing Doors, director Sam Fleischner opts for a more gritty, realistic take on how a lower class family deals with autism, as well as a small amount of insight into the eyes and mind of an autistic teenager.

Stand By The Closing Doors focuses on a dysfunctional, struggling Mexican family, who are thrown into crisis when Ricky, their autistic son, goes on the subway by himself following an intense day at school, without alerting his family. This sends his mother Mariana into a state of panic and anger, taking it out on her daughter Carla for not looking after him properly, as well as her husband Ricardo for leaving her to raise their children single. As these three flawed family members pull together to search for a confused and somewhat frightened Ricky, they must confront their problems and seek a resolution if they have any hope of reuniting their family.

What I like about this film is how its made. It’s a very grounded film with a story based on somewhat true events. Director Sam Fleischner is a filmmaker with a small budget, but with big bold ideas that he manages to create on camera. He combines his serious handheld camera style with flashing moments of surreal David Lynch style sequences which give us some idea of what is inside the autistic mind of Ricky as he is lost within the tunnels of the New York Subway.

The family in the picture are very well realised, and are incredibly believable on screen. None of these characters are completely perfect, but you still sympathise with them when events take a wrong turn. I also like the idea of combing the real life events, (presidential elections, major storm, etc) and making it clash with the fictional plotline. It’s quite a nice idea, and it makes you believe that this was something that really happened, or could easily happen in real life. It also shows you the truly frightening aspect of what comes with dealing a youth with autism; presenting the challenges as they are, as well as the strain and anger of the other family members.

There are some things in the film that can be problematic. The biggest concern is the fact that the film was a little too grim at points, whether it’s the mother Marianna unfairly laying into her daughter and husband continually for Ricky’s disappearance, or the amount of public abuse Ricky receives following an embarrassing situation on the subway. Most films seen depicting aspergers syndrome or autism spectrum disorder have showcased a more lighter tone when it comes to tackling the entirety of aspergers syndrome and autism spectrum disorder. Films such as Adam, Rain Man or the Swedish film Simple Simon, have all showcased these mental disabilities in a lighter and comedic tone, as well as educating audiences on these types of disorders and what the people possessing them have to go through on a day to day basis. In this film, there’s no light relief moments whatsoever, and it doesn’t allow the audience to relate to Ricky whatsoever.

Stand By The Closing Doors is a film that looks at autism and its struggles in a very different tone than before. It focuses on the families emotions, the daily struggles they take on and taps into the mind of an autistic teenager and what he sees, hears and thinks. Its not a perfect film, as it comes off at times soulless and harsh to its audience, but it’s a more truthful and honest insight of autism than ever before in cinema.

Rating - 73% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Gravity

3D has struggled to be a staple in modern cinema. Ever since James Cameron's Avatar, filmmakers have struggled to match the wow factor in what that film delivered. But Gravity is set to be the film to rival Avatar's 3D, and perhaps even match it.

Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) is a brilliant medical engineer on her first shuttle mission, with veteran astronaut Matt Kowalsky (George Clooney) in command of his last flight before retiring. But on a seemingly routine spacewalk, disaster strikes. The shuttle is destroyed, leaving Stone and Kowalsky completely alone - tethered to nothing but each other and spiraling out into the blackness.

I will first talk about the strengths of this film, which is pretty obvious given the buzz: The 3D. Its pretty much spectacular in all counts. The detail perfect, the colours fantastic and how it works within the story is genius. Alfonso Cuaron directs a stunning 90 minute film that pushes what 3D can achieve in the film medium, whether people like it or not.

The downside is a poor story. While its not terrible, its just very plain and ordinary. I don't really care that much about the characters, and you definitely feel the 90 minutes go by. I think it would have benefited for a rewrite or two. I understand the running time was short given that so much money went into the effects and the fact the film took many years to make, but I just feel that the story could have had more work on it rather than the effects.

Overall, Gravity visually is a masterpiece, but story wise is an average space survival film.

Rating - 82% - A-

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...The Wolf Of Wall Street

Martin Scorsese is one of America's most prolific filmmakers, focusing on themes such as power, the abuse of power and the consequence of power. Bit power focused isn't it. Wish I could say The Wolf Of Wall Street was any different, but despite its focus on the only theme Scorsese seems to do well in, its a film with its own attitude and its own style.

In The Wolf of Wall Street DiCaprio plays Belfort, a Long Island penny stockbroker who served 36 months in prison for defrauding investors in a massive 1990s securities scam that involved widespread corruption on Wall Street and in the corporate banking world, including shoe designer Steve Madden.

The strengths of this film is the performances. DiCaprio is marvellous as Belfort, playing a despicable power hungry man who aims to get as much wealth and money as he possibly can, throwing everything that he can to succeed. Jonah Hill plays Donnie, Belfort's best friend and sidekick during this whole story. Hill's performance is also very good and does well with the material given, which he delivers mostly in a black comedy style of performance. Margot Robbie also shines in this film. The former neighbours star makes her prescience known with this first taste in Hollywood. She's sexy, spiky and very full of personality. She's also the only character that really matures throughout the whole film, starting off as a sex hungry woman who sees Belfort only as a way of getting to the top, to a woman with her own ambitions but her own frustrations in life too.

Scorsese directs very well too. One problem many audiences say about this film is the depiction of nudity and woman. I'll admit that its very bias towards men and the lifestyle of men in this period, but its not meant to be advertising its lifestyle. Its idea is to show that this attitude leads to self destruction and the downfall of an individual. I'll admit the nudity is a bit too forward, but only just.

Overall, The Wolf Of Wall Street is a terrific picture with a style, a personality, an attitude and a story to be told.

Rating - 100% - A+

[honeykid]

I don't understand this criticism of the length of Gravity. It's not the first time I've heard it, but it never becomes easier to understand. Gravity is a very small film writ large and with the latest CGI. There isn't anything more to the story and no amount of extra time would've put it there. You could've had an extra hour of quiet and allowed the audience to reflect on life's philosophies, but the film wasn't trying to do that. Also, that film probably wouldn't have made the money that Gravity has.

Lord knows I wasn't particularly impressed with the film or my experience while watching it, but to attack it on this point doesn't seem logical, to me.

[MovieMad16]

I wasn't criticising the length of the film, more the fact that the story just wasn't that original or ground breaking as many people have said. Avatar managed to have a more original story and world than Gravity did. I didn't mind it was 90 minutes, its just the content of those 90 minutes's only strength was its visuals.

[honeykid]

I see. Sorry, I thought you had a problem with the length/quality.

I haven't read much about it, as I don't about most films, however, I've not heard anyone say the film was original or groundbreaking in terms of story or storytelling. As I said, it's a tiny little film. You could put on a stage version of the film in a school hall and, for those who thought there was too much noise, be it talking or music, they may well prefer that.

BTW, I can't understand how you can say that Avatar has a "more original story". You can say it has more content or that more happens, but the unoriginality of the story of Avatar is well documented.

[MovieMad16]

Avatar was more original because in my eyes, there was more effort put in story wise, when it came to the world building and the character creation. Many can argue whether it was stronger effect wise or not.

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Under The Skin

Scottish films come around once a year if your lucky. But with one attached a huge star like Scarlett Johansson, its bound to raise bigger publicity than usual. So is Under The Skin destined to be a Scottish classic?

Under The Skin is adapted from Michel Faber's 2000 novel of the same name, about an alien sent to Earth by a rich corporation to prey on unwary hitch-hikers. The screenplay was written by Glazer and Walter Campbell. Scarlett Johansson stars as the alien arriving in Glasgow, to prey on Scottish males. There is also a mysterious motorbike rider who is there to assist Scarlett in her hunt.

There is a good chunk from this film to like. For starters, the film is visually stunning. Cinematographer Daniel Landin succeeds in shooting Scotland in both a gritty and gorgeous way. The gritty element comes in the cities such as Glasgow, with the dark wet streets at night, sitting next to quiet, calming woodland villages up in the north. With experimental shots of Scarlett's prey being held prisoner, it really gives Daniel Landin a lot to play with, and he succeeds with ease. Scarlett Johansson also does a highly convincing job playing the alien. She doesn't show her first impressions, but as the film unravels, she becomes slowly fascinated with the life of Planet Earth, as well as the body she inhabits. Scotland in general looks great on screen, and as someone who lives in Glasgow, there is a sense of oddness of seeing the city being filmed unknowingly as Scarlett drives - and sometimes walks the streets - through Glasgow. The improv scenes are hard to predict, but if you think carefully, you'll find them and they are very well done and realistic.

Despite my long praise, I do have issues with the film. I feel the director Jonathan Glazer tries too hard in this film to be Stanley Kubrick, with long shots of setting, or long close ups of the actors staring silently towards something. The 3rd act becomes slightly over long and sufferable, and in a way feels anti climatic with what happens. There is also very pointless nudity in this film, especially coming from Scarlett herself. As someone who is annoyed at roles for women based around their appearance, she takes a role which is purely based around her looks to ensnare the predatory like minds of alpha males to their death. Plus we also never get a reason why Scarlett's character is killing these people. Is it invasion? Are they studying them? Or something else. Is there some sub feminist message hidden within this film that everyone is missing? Maybe I'm analysing this too much.

Overall, Under The Skin is a good flick, albeit a flawed one. It contains good ideas, weird visuals but a story mismanaged and striped too thin.

Rating - 75% - B+

[MovieMad16]

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Connor Macgregor Reviews...Muppets Most Wanted

Big expectations were on the new Muppet sequel as soon as the last film received its much deserved praise. But can this film continue the acclaimed success established previously?

Flush with their revival's success, Kermit the Frog and his friends are approached by Dominic Badguy to go on a world tour. Unknown to them, this is all part of the sinister plan of Constantine, the world's most evil frog, to become the greatest thief of all time. After making sure that Kermit is jailed as himself, Constantine impersonates him to use the Muppets' tour as cover for his scheme. While Sam the Eagle and Inspector Jean Pierre Napoleon investigate, the Muppets find their boss seems strangely changed even as Kermit desperately attempts to escape to stop the impostor. Only when Walter, Fozzie and Animal realize the truth is there a chance to prevent Constantine from pulling off the crime of the century.

I came out this film massively dissapointed. This could easily be the worst Muppet film made in the series. I'll start with what I like. The musical numbers are just as good as the previous film. Well written, beautifully sung and add a sniff of personality to the flick. Some of the cameos work and the story connects well to the last film. The problems however are quite rapid. I thought the humour was flat and badly written, most of the cameos were utterly pointless and were only there to have a good guest list. The ending is quite cheesy and poorly put together, and I felt the script and story overall was more of a rough draft, as that of a final script ready for production.

Its unfortunate, but if you want to see it to entertain your children, by all means see it. It has some strong aspects to the film, but overall feels like a major dissapointment in the franchise.

Rating - 56% - B-