Just Go With It

Certificate: 12A
Running Time: 117 minutes
Director: Dennis Dugan


Starring Adam Sandler as Danny Maccabee, a plastic surgeon intent on never falling in love. But when he meets the girl of his dreams, he has to enlist the help of his assistant, Katherine (played by Jennifer Aniston) to pretend to be his ex wife in order to cover up a lie. I thought the movie would probably lack substance, as have most of Sandler's more recent movies, but it went back to 90's Sandler with it's quick wit, one liners and a solid, original plot. A large part of the movie was set in Hawaii - which always makes a great location for romantic scenes. One of the best - and most original - romantic comedies I've seen in a long time.


Rating: ****

The Fighter

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 116 minutes

Director: David O. Russell

Based on the true story of "Irish" Micky Ward, a small town boxer living in the shadow of his once promising brother, Dickie. Now addicted to crack after a humiliating defeat in the ring, Dickie begins training his younger brother for the career he could have had. The Fighter is a strong depiction starring Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams and Melissa Leo. A worthwhile watch, with acting standard really setting the bar. Melissa Leo and Christian Bale really did deserve those Oscars. Overall, a film made rather well, in a creative, documentary-style.

Rating: ****

True Grit

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 110 minutes

Directors: Ethan Coen and Joel Coen

Jeff Bridges and Matt Damon star, along with newcomer Hailee Steinfeld about a daughter’s quest for justice and revenge. Set in the old West, a man is robbed and killed by a sought after criminal. On a bid to avenge her father, Mattie Ross (Steinfeld) goes about hiring a Marshall (Bridges) to capture the brutal man in question. The film based on a tale by Charles Portis, was depicted well. The acting was of a high standard, and the set and special effects were also of good quality. I assure you that it won’t disappoint. But with the Cohen Brothers and Steven Spielberg behind it’s making, you should expect no less.

Rating: ****

127 Hours

Certificate: 15

Running Time: 94 minutes

Director: Danny Boyle

James Franco stars in this epic film brought to us by the amazing Danny Boyle(who brought us the likes of Slumdog Millionaire and 28 Days Later), based around the true story of a man, literally, trapped between a rock and a hard place. The film was well made, and some of the effects were brilliant. James Franco did well considering he had to pull off a one-man show. As usual, praise to Danny Boyle, who won’t bring us anything less than great. Well worth the watch, as long as you aren’t someone who cringes easily. Definitely one of the top films of the year so far, but just misses out being on par with the likes of Black Swan and The King’s Speech. 

Rating: ****

The Blind Side

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 129 minutes

Director: John Lee Hancock

Quinton Aaron stars as Michael Oher, a teen from the american slums waiting for an opportunity in life. That lifeline comes in the shape of Leigh Anne Tuohy (Sandra Bullock), a wealthy housewife who welcomes him into her home. Michael Oher learns the true meaning of family, happiness and american football. Based on the true story of the football star, this heartwarming tale shows that it only takes one person to change someone’s life. Sandra Bullock deserved the Academy Award that she was given. I would certainly recommend this film.

Rating: ****

Salt

Certificate: 12A

Running Time: 100 minutes

Director: Phillip Noyce

Angelina Jolie is Evelyn Salt, one of the best CIA agents in America. But after she is accused of being a Russian spy, she goes on the run from her respected colleagues. Through all of the action, we also learn vital information about her past. Is she really working as a spy, or is she just simply being set up? Great acting, as per usual, from the bold and beautiful Angelina, who is said to have done all of her own stunts. This epic movie reportedly was originally scripted for Tom Cruise as the title role, then rewritten for Jolie when he backed out. Overall, a pretty good film.

Rating: ****