Happy New Year :-)

I hope you all had an amazing christmas and are looking forward to 2011.

The start of a new year means one thing only in the world of film - awards ceremonies. The Golden Globes come up on the 16th January, the BAFTA awards on 13th February and the Oscars on 27th February, filling up the first quarter of our year with acting talent. I’m going to be writing lots about the awards ceremonies over the coming months, so I hope you’re ready!!

2011 also sees plenty of mouth-watering new film releases, such as Rabbit Hole, Love and Other Drugs and Tangled. I will be reviewing as many new releases as humanly possible, to spare you from films that suck and urge you to see films that are out of this world. If you’re into movies, this is the blog for you. Without further ado, here are the top 10 films I can’t wait to watch in 2011;

1. The King’s Speech
2. Chalet Girl
3. Captain America: The First Avenger
4. Biutiful
5. Black Swan
6. Rango
7. True Grit
8. 127 Hours
9. Thor
10. Restless

As excited as you all are about rushing down to the cinema (‘Orange Wednesdays’ I hear you cry!) enjoy the new year celebrations before you get re-glued to a cinema screen. Have a fun start to 2011, let’s make this year an incredible one. 

:-) thanks for reading :-) 

Merry Christmas All :-)

I just wanted to take this opportunity to wish you all a merry christmas. I’ll not be writing again until the new year, but then I’ll be back with more great reviews. So have fun, stay safe and enjoy last of 2010. :-)

Sherlock Holmes

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 128 minutes

Director: Guy Ritchie

It seemed to me very strange to cast an American actor (Robert Downing Jr) as this legendary British character, however, it is clear that Jude Law (the role of Watson) would not have pulled off the lead. Downing Jr did a pretty good job portraying Sherlock - the perfect dose of witty mixed in with cheeky. The whole plot was thrilling - action from beginning to end - and a lot of memorable scenes. I felt a tiny sense that something was missing as the end credits rolled, but actually rather enjoyed the whole thing. Money well spent I would say.

Rating: ****

He's Just Not That Into You

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 129 minutes

Director: Ken Kwapis

I managed to endure this film, and it wasn’t all bad, but I think I’d only credit it as being mediocre. The one thing it has going for it is a huge cast of recognizable faces; Scarlett Johansson, Bradley Cooper, Justin Long, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore and Jennifer Connelly. The plot wasn’t exactly the most original, and was almost confusing at times to work out who was interlinked with who. One of those films that you’ll think will be fabulous due to its all-star cast but ends up being a disappointment.

Rating: ***

Did you Hear About the Morgans?

Certificate: PG

Running Time: 103 minutes

Director: Marc Lawrence

Hugh Grant and Sarah Jessica Parker star in this well-made romantic comedy about an estranged couple who end up being relocated together after witnessing a murder. Some of the scene’s are slightly predictable and cliche, but if you want a light-hearted, feel-good movie, this is the one to watch. Grant and Parker had fabulous on-screen chemistry.

Rating: ****

Kick-Ass

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 117 minutes

Director: Matthew Vaughn

Starring Aaron Johnson (seen in Nowhere Boy) as the lead, Kick-Ass is about a regular kid who decides that you don’t have to be super to become a superhero. But there’s a big thing that distinguishes this from all those other superhero movies. Mainly that he generally gets his ass kicked, but also that it’s funny, not cliche in any way and was a very individual and unique storyline. Well worth a watch if you want a bit of action comedy. Aaron Johnson is definitely one to watch - he’s a talented, rising star.

Rating: ****

Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 96 minutes

Director: Woody Allen

The strangely depicted tale of two friends, who find a mutual love and desire for one man on a vacation in Barcelona. Starring Scarlett Johansson. Also starring Penelope Cruz as the ever-so-slightly-crazy ex-wife who comes back into the picture, causing mayhem. A very interesting and original plot, with high quality acting and a fantastic setting. Worth a watch, although you may find it hard to keep up with at times.

Rating: ****

How to Train Your Dragon

Certificate: PG

Running Time: 98 minutes

Directors: Dean DeBlois and Chris Sanders

An animated tale about a boy, his viking village, and obviously, dragons! The trailer made it seem as though it was really funny - but it didn’t make me laugh at all really. This is the only criticism, as the movie was still really great. I enjoyed watching it immensely and it’s a great family film. It’s nice to see an original idea, when there are so many new films out there that feel like the plot has been ‘borrowed’ from a previous film. 

Rating: ****

Shutter Island

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 138 minutes

Director: Martin Scorsese

Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio team up (again!) to create this psychological thriller set in 1954. DiCaprio plays a U.S. Marshall investigating the disappearance of a patient in a psychiatric unit on a isolated island. The whole plot takes a very sinister approach, and there is more than what meets the eye. However, it was slightly predictable and slightly confusing throughout. Average in all sense of the word. 

Rating: ***

Sex and the City 2

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 146 minutes

Director: Michael Patrick King

You should probably know by now the story, considering it was a TV show for six seasons, and a blockbuster debut - which was HUGE!! I was so excited to watch it and it didn’t disappoint. The cast that we all love were back in their element. More tremendously glamorous outfits. Set in the beautiful United Arab Emirates. The storyline was a great follow-on, and it was awesome to see Aiden “the one that got away” back in the mix. Lots of hilarity's, fun and frolics, and the one and only Carrie Bradshaw.

Rating: ****

The Hangover

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 100 minutes

Director: Todd Phillips

You’re typical what-happens-in-vegas-stays-in-vegas kind of movie. The morning after the night before, four blokes recall their wild stag night, leading to disastrous consequences after their crazy antics. Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis, Heather Graham and Mike Tyson all star. It was quite funny, but such a cliche film. Not overly unique, but worth a watch if you’re in the mood for it.

Rating: ***

Couple's Retreat

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 113 minutes

Director: Peter Billingsley

A romantic comedy about four couples who go on a therapeutic retreat in order to save their marriages. Fairly funny. Pretty good plot. Lots of eye candy if you’re into girls. Not much in the way of male eye candy. A beautiful setting. If you haven’t been on vacation in a while, this might make you drool. Anyone who has seen this will say it’s pretty good overall, but will probably tell you to just fast forward to the yoga scene for fits of giggles.

Rating: ***

Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief

Certificate: PG

Running Time: 118 minutes

Director: Chris Columbus

One word to sum up this film: AWFUL! It was as badly pulled off in all areas as ‘Eragon’, with below average acting, over the top special effects and overall was very long winded. One of the worst films I have ever had to sit through - thanks to my wonderful little brother. It took 2 hours of my time, so I refuse to spend another minute more with it present in my memory. Just don’t waste your time or money please people.

Rating: *

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 124 minutes

Director: David Slade

I love, love, LOVE every single novel in this series. Stephenie Meyer should be proud of her imagination and what she has accomplished. But I really don’t like the films. The acting is sub-standard, the effects verging on laughable and a lot of key moments have been dropped. I hate to think what they are going to do with the subsequent films. A movie for anyone who enjoys Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson or Taylor Lautner, aswell as anyone who wants to snigger at bad special effects. If you want my advice - read the books or watch ‘Vampires Suck’ instead. 

Rating: **

Alice in Wonderland

Certificate: PG

Running Time: 108 minutes

Director: Tim Burton

Based on the novel by Lewis Carroll, and the previous Disney animated adaption, Tim Burton puts his trusted duo (Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter) in the foreground of this epic picture. Major league actors; check. Grand special effects; check. Charisma, chemistry and suspense; check. I hoped this movie would be a superb adaptation, and it didn't disappoint.

Rating: ****

Paranormal Activity

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 86 minutes

Director: Oren Peli

The best thing about watching this film was that the cinema room was almost empty so I had space to put my feet up. Which, it turns out, is pretty handy when you want to fall asleep. A low budget film that somehow ended up making millions. I was more scared by the nachos I was served than I was of this movie! It made my friend jump about 4ft in the air, but it had no such effect on me or anyone else. I’m sure it’s pretty obvious to you already that there won’t be a review of the second film.

Rating: *

Shrek Forever After

Certificate: PG

Running Time: 93 minutes

Director: Mike Mitchell

The fourth depiction in the Shrek series. Better than the previous two, but of course, nowhere near as amusing as the original. Shrek (Mike Myers), Fiona (Cameron Diaz), Donkey (Eddie Murphy) and the rest of the fairy-tale crew (including voices by Antonio Banderas, Julie Andrews and John Cleese) are back, ready to give us a happy ending. But there’s no smooth sailing in the land of Far Far Away. Funny in places, but the story-lines are getting tired. Kids will enjoy, but I think Dreamworks have strung the pandemic of Shrek out for long enough.

Rating: ***

500 Days of Summer

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 95 minutes

Director: Marc Webb

To quote ‘Roses are Red, Violets are Blue... fuck you, whore!!!’ Sorry for those who disapprove of the language, but it had me almost peeing my pants with laughter for about 20 minutes and was used as a catchphrase for the following week! Joseph Gordon-Levitt is charmingly cute, as per usual. He plays Tom Hansen, a guy who just simply falls in love. But put the tissues away, this isn’t your average fairy-tale. A brilliant film - everything was pulled off to a high standard. Men and women alike will certainly enjoy it. Well done to the director, Marc Webb. Thank-you for creating this movie for our entertainment.

Rating: ****

Case 39

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 109 minutes

Director: Christian Alvart

A ‘horror’ film about a social worker (Renee Zellweger) who gets more than she bargained for when taking on a troubled, mistreated child into her family home. Predictable, melodramatic and downright stupid at times. I wouldn’t watch it again, and as the end credits rolled I thought to myself ‘well, that’s 2 hours of my life I’ll never get back’. My face was as unemotional as Renee Zellweger looking happy, surprised, shocked, angry, upset, ecstatic... you get my drift.

Rating: *

Ghost of Girlfriends Past

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 100 minutes

Director: Mark Waters

A typical cheesy, almost-romantic film starring Matthew McConaughey, where he plays his usual role of a selfish, arrogant smooth-talker. With a sideline plot to ‘A Christmas Carol’ and a beautiful co-star (Jennifer Garner), the film was average beyond your wildest dreams. Fine to view amongst friends on a boozy night in, or when curled up in bed with flu, but you won’t want to press play a second time.

Rating: ***

Four Lions

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 97 minutes

Director: Christopher Morris

I have to start by saying, if you’re the sort of person that is going to get offended easily then just don’t watch it in the first place. Many people have slated this film due to its comedic approach to suicide bombers, but people need to remember that it is only a film. And a pretty good one at that. Riz Ahmed is an up and coming British actor, who pulled off his role well. Christopher Morris took a big risk with this movie, but managed to pull through.

Rating: ***

The Joneses

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 96 minutes

Director: Derrick Borte

Starring Demi Moore and David Duchovny as ‘The Joneses’ - a couple who appear to have everything; a nice house in the suburbs, flashy sports cars, top of the range gadgets, and gorgeous, popular kids. If pulled off well, this film could have deceived people a bit more and kept viewers guessing until the end. In actual fact, I predicted the plot within 4 minutes of the opening credits. A unique and original film, pulled off badly. Fits alongside all other films you would categorize as C-list starring C-list actors. Sorry Demi.

Rating: **

Bad Lieutenant

Certificate: 18

Running Time: 122 minutes

Director: Werner Herzog

Nicolas Cage has made some really (and I mean REALLY) awful films in recent times, but is now back to doing what he does best. Dropping the cheesy lines and mediocre co-stars, he’s pulled off something worth watching. The film, in a nutshell, is about a good cop gone bad, who finds himself in all sorts of trouble. Drugs, sex and family problems all follow. Definitely not one for the kids. Also stars some really rather random reptiles. Quirky, cut throat and sinister. Welcome back Nic. 

Rating: ****

Vampires Suck

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 82 minutes

Directors: Jason Friedberg and Aaron Seltzer

The parody of a certain romantic vampire film that all the world is raving about. As far as parodies go, this is up with some of the best, alongside Scary Movie and Not Another Teen Movie. This film has all the traits of one of our usual guilty pleasures; bad acting, not-so-special effects and ultimately takes the biscuit. Quite a few laughs, but only a one-time watch as far as I’m concerned. So basically, rent, don’t buy. 

Rating: ***

Toy Story 3

Certificate: U

Running Time: 98 minutes 

Director: Lee Unkrich

The classic tale is back - better than the second film, and just as good as the first one! I was doubtful that this movie was going to capture the same kind of fun and spirit as the Toy Story films were intended, but I actually really enjoyed it. Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) and the rest of the crew reunite, joined by some new faces. As for Andy - he’s all grown up and off to college! If you’re a fan of the last two Toy Story epics, or just a Disney fan, you MUST see this film. Also, on the main menu, go into special features and have a watch of a short animation film called ‘Day and Night’. It’s rather amusing and the effects are suberb.

Rating: ****

Dear John

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 108 minutes

Director: Lasse Hallstrom

Channing Tatum and Amanda Seyfried join up to convey a romantic epic, originally a novel by Nicholas Sparks. John (Tatum) meets the girl of his dreams, Savannah (Seyfried) whilst on leave from his position in the army. They spent the most amazing (yet slightly cliched) summer together, before he must return to the frontline. Sounds predictable and slightly pathetic, but actually had some surprises up its sleeve (I don’t want to give the plot away) and came across well. This movie will capture your emotions. For romance lovers everywhere, please give it a watch.

Rating: ****

Get Him To The Greek

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 109 minutes

Director: Nicholas Stoller

I have to say, I usually dislike Russell Brand immensely - sorry to any fans out there, I know there are many of you. There’s just something about him that makes me think he is annoying, unfunny and a bit of a twat, if I’m honest. But watching this film, I must say, he has grown on me. The jokes were hilarious, the plot was quite genius, and the acting was actually pretty good. I laughed so hard it hurt at times, and I’ve been raving about it to all my friends since. Definitely worth watching, unless you’re the sort of person who gets offended easily - you have been warned! Russell Brand - I salute you!!!

Rating: ****

Drag Me To Hell

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 99 minutes

Director: Sam Raimi

I’m very into horror films, but this one was particularly disappointing. The whole storyline was weak and predictable. There wasn’t much suspense, and the acting was just bearable. A melodramatic film, even for a horror movie. I was looking forward to watching this at Halloween, and I managed to sit through the whole thing (just!), but I certainly wouldn’t recommend it, or watch it again.

Rating: *

4.3.2.1

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 117 minutes

Director: Noel Clarke and Mark Davis

Filled with rising stars from both the UK and America, 4.3.2.1 takes a unique approach on teen life as it follows the very different lives of four girls over three days. The drama never stops, and the plot is compelling. The whole movie runs smoothly, and there isn’t a dull moment. Featuring Emma Roberts, Ophelia Lovibond, Tamsin Egerton and Shanika Warren-Markland, the cast fulfilled their roles well. Overall, a great movie and I would definitely recommend it to all.

Rating: ****

Iron Man 2

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 124 minutes

Director: Jon Favreau

I think have a phobia of follow up films. Almost every film sequel I’ve ever watched, the second film always seems to be the worst. Never as many catchy lines and fresh ideas as the first film, and usually not so much big budget special effects as the third. This film was certainly no exception to that rule. Iron Man was such a huge favourite that we all knew it would be difficult to stay on par with, but this film kind of takes the biscuit. The best thing about it was an all star cast, the worst thing was pretty much everything else, including being very, very long. Amicably average. I’m sure the next one will be better.

Rating: ***

The Reader

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 124 minutes

Director: Stephen Daldry

This has quickly become a favourite of mine. The story of two very different individuals; Hanna Schmitz (Kate Winslet) and Michael Berg (David Kross, Ralph Fiennes), set in post World War Germany. Although Hanna is almost twice the age of this fifteen year old boy, they quickly, yet reluctantly become lovers for a summer. The tale unravels as years later, both become involved with a court case in different ways - thrusting them back into each other’s lives. A very well deserved Oscar for Kate Winslet. A captivating storyline to be enjoyed by all. 

Rating: *****

The A Team

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 117 minutes

Director: Joe Carnahan

A rather well pulled off remake of the classic that we all love. The casting was good, and the on screen chemistry between the cast made it seem more realistic. The script was rather dramatic - but for an A Team remake it had to be. The special effects also followed along those lines. Challenge any action film buff to say they didn’t enjoy it!

Rating: ****

The Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 123 minutes

Director: Terry Gilliam

Lots of very famous faces, including the late Heath Ledger, who really did go out with a bang in this film. Dr Parnassus is an old man who just can’t stop making deals with the devil. He owns a freaky traveling circus show, with Lily Cole starring as his daughter. They become involved in a mans’ life (Ledger) when they save him from a terrible death. The games are entertaining and the banter between Dr Parnassus and the Devil are amusing. Jude Law and Johnny Depp thrust into the mix, and the whole film becomes more and more exciting.

Rating: ****

Fish Tank

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 123 minutes

Director: Andrea Arnold

The first in a long list of films of recent that are national lottery funded and depict the harsh reality of British life. Fish Tank was kept short but busy, the film of a young girl living on a council estate with her mum and sister. She has ambitions to dance - but I assure you this is no Billy Elliot. The teens’ life is filled with mayhem when two men enter her life, one for the better and the other for the worse. The acting by Katie Jarvis was almost astounding and I’m sure she’ll go on to star in something much bigger and better in the future. The rest of the cast played their roles efficiently, however it was definitely a one-woman show.

Rating: ****

A Serious Man

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 106 minutes

Directors: Ethan Coen and Joel Coen

A simple tale; it is 1967, and Jewish-American Larry Gopnik has been kicked out by his wife. He knows his only foot in the door is to become a serious man. A few laughs. A truly misplaced ending. A depiction that, quite frankly, was the most mediocre I think I’ve ever seen. The acting was pretty good, so in a lot of respects it wasn’t half bad, but I don’t think I’ll be watching it again anytime soon.

Rating: ***

The Lovely Bones

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 136 minutes

Director: Peter Jackson

Based on the book by Alice Sebold, this is the tale of Susie Salmon, a young girl living in a small American town, who has to come to terms with vengeance and triumph from beyond the grave. As she watches her family struggle to emotionally overcome her traumatic death, her story begins to unravel, and we watch in the hope that her tainted memory will be laid to rest. The acting by all of the cast was well above average, and the script made for an interesting watch, however the story started off by throwing you in at the deep end - which wasn’t my cup of tea. Aswell as this, I found the plot a little predictable. 

Rating: ****

Broken Embraces

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 127 minutes

Director: Pedro Almodovar

Broken Embraces, starring Lluis Homar and Penelope Cruz, had twists and tricks around every turn. It depicts the tale of Harry Caine (Homar), a blind script writer reflecting on a pivotal moment in his life. It had all the wit and charm of a true story of lost love. Although all the acting was well pulled off, it must be said that Penelope Cruz was ultimately the star of the show. Overall a good watch, with it’s only real criticism being that it seemed like a long film to try and hold your attention to.

Rating: ***

Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs

Certificate: U

Running Time: 90 minutes

Directors: Phil Lord and Chris Miller

Funny aswell as fun. Family friendly. Magic and mayhem. The story of an aspiring inventor and his unknown little town. And best of all... giant food! The characters were great and you especially fall in love with the main character, Flint Lockwood. I would recommend the film to anyone as its a great way to pass the time, and you’ll finish the film with a big smile on your face.

Rating: ****

An Education

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 100 minutes

Director: Lone Scherfig

It’s difficult to know where to start on this film, as it was just wonderful. The whole cast were amazing at keeping the story together, and it captured my emotions in many ways. I’ve always been a fan of Nick Hornby, and although this was no rival of ‘About A Boy’, it is definitely one of his best. It was the classic tale of a young girl falling in love. Jane Austen with 1950’s clothes on. Romantic, cheeky and amazingly infectious.

Rating: ****

A Prophet

Certificate: 18

Running Time: 155 minutes

Director: Jacques Audiard

For a fairly violent film, it was witty, dramatic and filled with excitement. A prophet tells the story of petty criminal, Malik El Djebena, set in a modern day French prison, where upon his arrival, he becomes involved in mafia drug crime and is used as a high-flying, rebellious pawn. The main character, played by Tahar Rahim, was convincing, and the whole film was fueled with adrenaline. 

Rating: ****

Moon

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 97 minutes

Director: Duncan Jones

Set on a space base on the moon, astronaut Sam Bell has to come to terms with a three year stint away from his family, friends and the comfort of his own home. But things turn from bad to worse when it is unclear as to whether he is going mad, or if something much weirder is going on. Overall, the whole film made me kind of confused, and the plot didn’t support itself. It’s a real shame, as the base plot had the makings of becoming a well remembered classic, but it wasn’t pulled off. As a film that had so much positive media surrounding it, I felt let down. 

Rating: **

Crazy Heart

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 112 minutes

Director: Scott Cooper

The story of a has-been country singer, recognizing his twilight years are long gone. It was the remarkably unepic tale of how you can find love, life and laughter even in your later years. Maggie Gyllenhaal once again disappoints, but the acting from Jeff Bridges was solid and kept the story together. A very middle of the road film, fine to watch but not one you would necessarily go out and buy.

Rating: ***

Up In The Air

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 108 minutes

Director: Jason Reitman

Up In The Air can only be compared to a fairy tale, rather than real life, as it is one of those films whose main characters’ life just gets better and better every scene. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as it is nice to see some optimism in the world. The story of a man set in his ways, a man who thinks he is sure of himself and his life. But his life is turned upside down when two completely different women touch him in different ways - and more ways than one! The film is more of a light-hearted coming of age tale that has been pulled off rather well by both cast and crew alike. It won’t change your life but it won’t fail to entertain. 

Rating: ****

9

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 79 minutes

Director: Shane Acker

A disappointment from the usually brilliant Tim Burton. The animation never fails him, and for that he is lucky, or I would probably have announced it unrateable. The plot wasn’t thrilling, and was at times confusing. There were occasional seeps of epicness that I liked, but for such a short film it seemed like it took forever to watch, and it didn’t really grasp at the concept of magical entertainment.

Rating: **

Julie & Julia

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 123 minutes

Director: Nora Ephron

Julie Childs, a small town woman of leisure living in France during the 1950‘s, takes up cooking lessons and becomes a food extraordinaire. Julia, living in modern day U.S.A, decides to challenge herself for a blog, by cooking all of the recipes from a Julie Child’s cook book in a year. Although the pair clearly never meet, it’s great to see a bond between the two characters, and the interest and passion for food that they both share. Meryl Streep is just utterly charming.

Rating: ****

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 153 minutes

Director: David Yates

I’m sure there isn’t a soul in the world that hasn’t heard of Harry Potter, and as he enters his sixth year of Hogwarts school, we all expected that something magical would be going on. Harry finds a book, belonging to the unrevealed ‘half blood prince’ and it sets the basis of many hidden secrets coming to light. However, just like the last 2 books in the Harry Potter series, this film was boring, droning and almost to the point of pointless. Not much happens, and it seems as though it was just a string connecting the fifth film to the seventh. A major disappointment, and would only be enjoyed by those with bad taste in films, and Potter fanatics.

Rating: ***

Fantastic Mr Fox

Certificate: PG

Running Time: 87 minutes

Director: Wes Anderson

From iconic children’s book to witty family film, I feel Fantastic Mr Fox was worth the watch. The animated story of a fox and his beloved family, as they get themselves into a bit of trouble with the locals. George Clooney stars as the fox that everybody loves and laughs at, and his voice is perfect to pull off the cheeky banter and fun one-liners that make this film so great. The animation was quirky and fun, exactly what it should have been. Children and adults alike feel this couldn’t have been made much better. Roald Dahl would be proud.

Rating: ****

Avatar

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 162 minutes

Director: James Cameron

For such a huge budget film, James Cameron really did go all out. The plot is unique and entertaining, with grand special effects. A film that can be watched and loved by all, however, there seemed to be something missing and the film was far too long. Given all the hype surrounding this large-scale, silver screen phenomenon, it seemed to me as though the film build up was more exciting than the film itself. A good movie, but not as great as all the critics made out. 

Rating: ****

Inglorious Basterds

Certificate: 18

Running Time: 153 minutes

Director: Quentin Tarantino

Set in Nazi-controlled France during the second World War, a gang of cut-throat Jewish-American soldiers decide to take revenge by killing Germans, and plan ultimately to wipe out Hitler and the Third Reich. Quentin Tarantino did an extremely satisfactory job with this movie, as the plot was compelling to watch. The acting was successful by all, although you may find - like I did - that Brad Pitt’s accent in the movie can become somewhat irritating. I would definitely recommend this to a friend.

Rating: ****

In The Loop

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 106 minutes

Director: Armando Iannucci

An insight into the corrupt world of politics and media, so convincingly realistic that I thought several of the politicians were played by themselves. A slight disappointment as I really did believe it was going to be much more funny and witty than it actually was, but nevertheless I thought it was a good, solid film with an element of truth in it. Peter Capaldi is slowly becoming more and more annoying, and it seems like he can't be given a role unless it involves swearing through the minimum of an hour of the screen time.

Rating: ***

Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 115 minutes

Director: Mat Whitecross

The almost biographical story of Ian Drury and his punk band, The Blockheads, as they shoot to fame in the 1970’s. Andy Serkis captured the true essence of punk life, and shows Drury’s stuggles with fame, flings and fatherhood. A quirky depiction, to say the least, but also very hard hitting. Very glamourous in terms of punk and rock, although Serkis looked almost like a lost member of the circus in certain scenes. No regrets watching this movie, but not a box office smash. 

Rating: ***

The Hurt Locker

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 131 minutes

Director: Kathryn Bigelow

Almost every day since I’ve watched this film, I’ve wanted to watch it again. It was so moving watching the emotional turmoil of the characters, and I got an adrenaline rush just from watching bomb scenes. I’m so proud of Kathryn Bigelow, who truly deserved to win Best Director at the Oscars; the most major film she tackled head on and gave it exactly what it deserved. This war-based epic set around a bomb disposal squad in Iraq tells it like it is, and I fell in love with the film. Don't let this one go amiss.

Rating: *****

Coco Before Chanel

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 105 minutes

Director: Anne Fontaine

Before this film, I knew little about the woman that was Coco Chanel. After watching, I knew how she became to be such a big icon, but was saddened that the film did her an injustice. Although the acting skills by Audrey Tautou were better than good, the film didn’t appear to show much enthusiasm about the life and times of Ms Chanel. The costumes were the most brilliant and extravagant, and the set was always beautiful, however I somehow felt it should have captivated me much more than it did.

Rating: **

Coraline

Certificate: PG

Running Time: 96 minutes

Director: Henry Selick

The weird and the wonderful. Amazing animations. A solid plot. Coraline is great for all the family to enjoy. The plot is about a young girl - Coraline - who moves to a new neighborhood, befriending two old ladies (the legends that are Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders), a young lad named Wyborne, and a crazy Russian circus maestro - all to lead her into a parallel universe full of wonders. Funny, fabulous family entertainment.

Rating: ****

District 9

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 112 minutes

Director: Neill Blomkamp

District 9 is set in the slums of South Africa. The story begins by telling us about an alien life form, nicknamed ‘prawns’, that are now residing in the local area. The film becomes more epic when a big problem arises for a guy that is supposed to be dealing with the aliens does something incredibly stupid (I don’t want to give the film away). The whole film captivated my interest and I couldn’t stop laughing through most of it. Initially, I had never particularly been bothered about watching the film but I’m so glad I did. The South African cast, crew and storyline have supported themselves and eachother to create something worthwhile.

Rating: ****

Where The Wild Things Are

Certificate: PG

Running Time: 101 minutes

Director: Spike Jonze

As a child, I relished in the magic and mayhem of the legendary book that is 'Where The Wild Things Are', so naturally I was excited to see the story come to life on screen. However, although I can see that this film may meet the needs of the children of today that haven’t read the book, for myself it didn’t capture the true fun and spirit that it should have, and by the credits I was filled with disappointment. I can’t quite put my finger on what exactly was wrong with the film, but in my eyes I wouldn’t call it a major success. I would describe the adaptation to be a weird blend of costumes and voices, a plot that wasn’t given much attention and a film that overall is far too long to hold the attention of an adult, let alone a child.

Rating: **

Nine

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 118 minutes

Director: Rob Marshall

Nine first caught my attention for it's all star cast, including Nicole Kidman, Dame Judi Dench, Kate Hudson and Penelope Cruz, as well as featuring Fergie. The tale of an eccentric, Italian film director and script writer, Guido Contini (Daniel Day-Lewis) and the many women in his life, as he deals with personal and professional struggles. The film set was inspiring, with all the glitz and glamour you would expect of such a film, although I have to comment that the acting was far better than the mediocre singing from most of the cast. I love a good musical, and Judi Dench fulfilled the whole role. Penelope Cruz brought sexiness to sound, but Nicole Kidman sounded like she’d just remembered a song from her adaptation of Moulin Rouge and Kate Hudson sang the song that stuck in my head for days for all the wrong reasons. I’ve never been more sure about saying a film was O.K.

Rating: ***