A New York Winter's Tale

*
UK Release Date: February 21st 2014

A burglar falls for an heiress as she dies in his arms. When he learns that he has the gift of reincarnation, he sets out to save her. (www.imdb.com)

Director: Akiva Goldsman

Starring: Colin Farrell, Jessica Brown Findlay, Russell Crowe

A New York Winter's Tale is a mish-mash of sub-genres, but a mix that is neither interesting or understandable. Akiva Goldman's script is all over the place. The most that can be understood is that it's a love story. Throwing in miracles, a white horse that's actually a dog that's actually a guardian angel and Russell Crowe as an Irish demon hellbent on destroying blah (Farrell) and his love (Findlay) into the fray sounds as perplexing as it is watching it. It might be easier to read the film's synopsis somewhere before viewing because the film won't help you there. If anything it's aggravating to watch because it makes you feel stupid. Farrell and Findlay's chemistry make it a little bearable, but even then it'll take a miracle to make this film any better.

1/5  

Whiplash

*****
UK Release Date: January 16th 2015

A promising young drummer (Teller) enrolls at a cut-throat music conservatory where his dreams of greatness are mentored by an instructor (J.K Simmons) who will stop at nothing to realize a student's potential.

Director: Damien Chazelle

Starring: Miles Teller, J.K. Simmons, Melissa Benoist

January has barely closed its doors yet, but Whiplash is already vastly becoming one of the most intense, butt-clenching films of the year. No, scrap that, of the decade. The team behind this film, the editors, sound mixers, producers, cinematographers and the director have put their blood, sweat and tears into this film to show blood, sweat and tears and a raw side to music. Whiplash has a different kind of action, but it's just as intense (if not more) as the likes of Die Hard or Batman. Andrew (Teller) constantly vies to prove himself in front of notoriously strict jazz-musician and teacher Fletcher (Simmons). Heavy amounts of denial, intimidation and practice won't break his vision to become the best drummer there is. Teller pours hit heart and soul into his performance, giving every ounce of energy he has, making Andrew his most engaging and enigmatic character yet. Our attention, however, will always be focused on Simmons, who's electrifying and outright scary. Just imagine Fletcher as your teacher when you were this young! Best supporting actor in the frameworks. Fletcher pushes Andrew to the edge, and us to the edge, and the intensity is overbearing, but utterly gripping from start to finish. It's one of those films that you won't want to end and for the last section to go on for Miles. 

5/5

The Dictator

***
UK Release Date: May 16th 2012

The heroic story of a dictator who risks his life to ensure that democracy would never come to the country he so lovingly oppressed.

Director: Larry Charles (Borat, Bruno)

Starring: Sacha Baron Cohen, Anna Faris, Ben Kingsley, Jason Mantzoukas, John C. Reilly

The Dictator sees Sacha Baron Cohen in his first feature length movie stripped of its documentary style filming (Borat, Bruno) and made into a linear story that has its ups and downs. When it's great, it's absolutely hilarious, but the hilarities don't come as often as we'd like. Where Borat (and most of Bruno) relied on awkward humour and surprising the public, The Dictator gambles on improvisation. Mr. Cohen knows that his stint has come to an end. This time, he has grabbed our attention via a fictional leader (Aladeen) and a fictional country (Wadiya), and throwing some political issues into the mix. Aladeen is forced to make a trip to America to discuss Wadiya's nuclear program but ends up isolated and abandoned by those he deemed trustworthy. He needs the help of friends old and new to reinstate his importance. Anna Faris hits the spot with her helpful humanitarian and Ben Kingsley is a surprise to see, but Cohen hogs the limelight with his improv; some of the best bits are in the trailer and we're left with a lot of the hand-me-down of material. Still, it's entertaining enough to see it through to the end.

3/5

Birdman

*****
UK Release Date: January 1st 2015

A washed up actor, who once played an iconic superhero, battles his ego and attempts to recover his family, his career and himself in the days leading up to the opening of a Broadway play. (www.imdb.com)

Director: Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (21 Grams, Babel, Biutiful)

Starring: Micheal Keaton, Zach Galifianakis, Edward Norton, Andrea Riseborough, Amy Ryan, Emma Stone, Naomi Watts

How the mighty have fallen. At least that can be said for Michael Keaton and his altruistic, mess of a man Riggan. The opening scene sets up we need to know, and what kind of film it's going to be. He's meditating in his backstage dressing-room, and it's all-of-a clutter. The one point that cannot be unnoticed is the fact that he's levitating. Maybe he can, or maybe it's in his mind. Either way, our sense of belief is untouched. He can't escape the voice inside his head, the voice of the Birdman, his alter-ego, or the Superhero that made him a success. Now he's a washed up actor (sound familiar?) attempting to relive the dream through a new Broadway show of Raymond Carver’s What We Talk About When We Talk About Love. Keaton is in fine form here, an intrinsic part of a bigger picture. Birdman or The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance (its full title), is a wonderful experience to watch and almost be a part of. Gravity Director of Photography Emmanuel Lubezki seemingly glides us through one continuous shot, following Riggan for the most part, weaving through corridors, different backstage rooms, on stage, up to the roof and through Times Square. Lengthy takes have been stitched together, fooling out minds and our eyes. It's the best piece of art in film this side of the century. Director Inarritu manages to bring out the best in his cast, whether it's Zach Galifianakis in a serious role (hard to believe, but he pulls it off) or Edward Norton as an ostentatious Broadway star that's hired as a last minute replacement for the show. He becomes the talk of the preview shows, which berates Riggan to no end. It's a joke about Norton's acting career, and he embraces it. Emma Stone's daughter to Riggan has recently come out of rehab and hits a high note too. Birdman is odd, vibrant, funny, dramatic, serious and poignant. It has it all. The award ceremonies will be difficult this year, but Birdman has enough on display to be a cut above the rest.

5/5     

Into the Woods

***
UK Release Date: January 9th 2015

A witch tasks a childless baker and his wife with procuring magical items from classic fairy tales to reverse the curse put on their family tree.

Director: Rob Marshall (Chicago, Memoirs of a Geisha, Pirate of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides)

Starring: Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, James Corden, Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine, Daniel Huttlestone, Lilla Crawford, Johnny Depp, Billy Magnussen

Into the Woods is a pleasure to watch. It's oddly fanatical and inspiriting. A roster of A-list celebrities make up the fairytale characters we're all too familiar with, and a story has been made around them. It's charming and fun, with a song or fifty to enjoy or give you a headache depending on your taste for such things. The songs are catchy and sung beautifully, but there's no stopping for breath; one song flows pretty much into the other. The celebrities give all they've got not only in acting but singing as well. Some fair better than others; Johnny Depp is almost embarrassing but Blunt, Streep and Kendrick are a delight. Chris Pine and Billy Magnussen share a gold moment that'll stick above the rest. Fantasy lovers will find a lot to love here; the woods is foreboding and creepy, the creatures, characters and locations adding thick substance and a level of realism. There's plenty for the parents and kids to enjoy, but keep in mind, it's nearly two hours long, so the kid's attention may sway before the end.

3/5

Foxcatcher

****
UK Release Date: January 9th 2015

The greatest Olympic Wrestling Champion brother team joins Team Foxcatcher led by multimillionaire sponsor John E. du Pont as they train for the 1988 games in Seoul - a union that leads to unlikely circumstances. (www.imdb.com)

Director: Bennett Miller (Capote, Moneyball)

Starring: Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo, Sienna Miller

Foxcatcher, from the moment it opens its doors, is hard to watch. The pace is slow, and the camera lingers uncomfortably on shots for long periods of time. The acting, though, is remarkably compelling. Steve Carell's du Pont will keep your eyes glued to the screen at all times. He's an intricate man whose troubled past has shaped him into a very complex character. Carrell throws out the comedy for drama with a stunning performance that will never be forgotten. He uses money to buy happiness. He pretends, or believes (I don't think we can be sure, Carell's acting is of a certain magnitude that keeps us guessing) he's the head coach of the Foxcatcher olympic wrestling team and strives for the attention of its team members. Brothers Mark (Tatum) and David (Ruffalo) are the main two he seeks the approval and attention of. Mark falls under his spell, and becomes manipulated by his wise choice of words, but David sees that there's more to him than meets the eye. Actions speak volumes and the dialogue is minimal. Initially David and Mark's relationship is hard to judge, as the opening scene has them wrestling, and only wrestling. The grappling is mixed with respect and love for each other, something that du Pont later envies. Foxcatcher isn't an easy watch; you'll cringe, you'll feel awkward and you'll definitely leave feeling shocked.
 
4/5     

American Sniper

*****
UK Release Date: January 16th 2015

Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle's pinpoint accuracy saves countless lives on the battlefield and turns him into a legend. Back home to his wife and kids after four tours of duty, however, Chris finds that it is the war he can't leave behind.

Director: Clint Eastwood (Letter from Iwo Jima, Gran Torino, J. Edgar)

Starring: Bradley Cooper, Sienna Miller

Chris Kyle was an unsung hero until Clint Eastwood decided to pick up his story. I, like many others in the U.K., have never heard of the most lethal sniper in U.S. history, so coming from a neutral point of view,  American Sniper is a bold and courageous story that's both poetic and heartbreaking. It's not trying to be an act of discretion, nor is it intentionally righteous or patriotic. Chris Kyle (Cooper) serves four tours over a number of years, never feeling at odds with the burden on his shoulders, and only ever feeling truly at home when he's not at home.

Bradley Cooper has bulked himself up, in body and execution. This is by far his most genuine performance to date, blowing Silver Linings Playbook's Pat out of the water. He's calm and cool, from the moment his current girlfriend dumps him, to joining the SEALS, to wooing Taya (Miller), and finally, on all his tours. His orders are to take out those who threaten the lives of the American troops on the ground. No amount of killing phases him, whether it be men, women or children. At least that's what he says towards the end, but beneath the exterior is a huge mess. Whenever he's home from tours his mind is adrift, wondering how many lives he could be saving if he were still out there. 

Solid acting from both Cooper and Miller. They bring out Kyle's deep psychological burdens. Eastwood focuses on the man rather than the fame. Yes, Kyle does go from tour to tour fighting the good fight, but thankfully it's broken up with the difficulties he experiences with his wife and children. 

American Sniper is easily Eastwood's best work since the war double Flags of Our Fathers and Letter from Iwo Jima. He's comfortable with war films, engaging the audience to the point where they're hanging off their seats, always asking us how it would feel to be in their shoes. AS is meaningful, full of suspense and incredibly emotional. The narrow-minded will seek out meanings that aren't there, whilst you'll find a lot to love with an open one. 

5/5

In Bruges

****
UK Release Date: April 18th 2008

Guilt-stricken after a job gone wrong, hitman Ray and his partner await orders from their ruthless boss in Bruges, Belgium, the last place in the world Ray wants to be.

Director: Martin McDonagh (Seven Psychopaths)

Starring: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Ralph Fiennes

In Bruges is ironically funny. Very, very funny, for those with a sick sense of humour. It's highly entertaining in places where it shouldn't be. Ray (Farrell) and Ken (Gleeson), who are hitmen, are sent to Bruges after a job went terribly wrong. Here they must lay low until further instructions from their boss, Harry (Fiennes). 

On paper this sounds dull, but thankfully a simple story with a powerful script brings the characters to life. To explain more about the story would ruin it completely, so the less you know, the better it will be. This is easily one of Farrell's best performances, as if he was born to be a (bit of a) jerk, just like his character (sometimes) is. He thinks 'Bruges is a shithole', which is far from the case, as Director Martin McDonagh has the city look dazzling and enthralling at all times. Bruges is like its own character. From the opening credits, we are whisked off on a visual tour accompanied by Gleeson's passion for the city, and Farrell's moaning and moping. The characters are engaging because of their differences. Seeing Farrell judo chop a dwarf or punch a Canadian in the face and shout 'That's for John Lennon, you Yankee fuckin' cunt!' is a lot funnier than it should be. Fiennes comes in a little too late, but manages to adds flare and depth to this, crazy, fucked-up film. 

4/5

A Good Day to Die Hard

**
UK Release Date: February 14th 2013

John McClane travels to Russia to help out his seemingly wayward son, Jack, only to discover that Jack is a CIA operative working undercover, causing the father and son to team up against underworld forces.

Director: John Moore (Behind Enemy Lines, Flight of the Phoenix, Max Payne)

Starring: Bruce Willis, Jai Courtney, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Sebastian Koch

This preposterous film will always draw comparisons from Die Hard fans whether Director John Moore likes it or not. To call this a Die Hard film completely disrespects the original trilogy and even the fourth installment. If this was considered as a standalone film, with no relation to the Die Hard franchise (that's what it's turned in to) whatsoever, then A Good Day to Die Hard may gain a little recognition. Even the title doesn't make the slightest bit of sense, unless it's a good day for others to die hard, not McClane's. 

New York cop John McClane (Willis) has been stripped of everything that makes him a believable action hero. He's been taken from his own town and put in to the unknown, out of his (and our) comfort zone entirely. What was so interesting and gripping about the originals is their simplicity. One building, one day, a bunch of bad guys working under one hell of a villain. Sorry guys, there's no Hans Gruber, Simon Gruber or even a Thomas Gabriel in site. What we do have is a messy story, shoddy script, and a lead who keeps repeating 'I'm on vacation!, like he doesn't want to be there. What a drag. The only plus side is seeing McClane's selfless side. A touch of realism comes from the growing bond with his son (Courtney), but it can't make up for the chaos that surrounds them.  McClane still manages to survive the impossible, and a great chase scene is best action in the film.

2/5

Your Highness

**
UK Release Date: April 13th 2011

When Prince Fabious's bride is kidnapped, he goes on a quest to rescue her... accompanied by his lazy useless brother Thadeous.

Director: David Gordon Green (Pineapple Express, The Sitter, Joe)

Starring: Danny McBride, James Franco, Natalie Portman, Zooey Deschanel, Toby Jones, Damien Lewis, Charles Dance, Justin Theroux

There's a lot to like in Your Highness, but there's also a lot to be unimpressed with too. Being a fan of David Gordon Green's previous work usually helps, and liking the two main stars (Danny McBride and James Franco) would make it all the better. Love them or hate them, it's difficult to deny the effort they've put in; Prince Fabious (Franco) and his moronic brother Thadeous (McBride) set off on an quest to save Fabious's bride-to-be (Deschanel), who's been kidnapped by a ruthless wizard (Theroux). The art department look like they've had fun with this; every prop, setting and costume looks authentic to a tee, but our sense of disbelief is shattered by improvised dialogue and crass humour. Stoners will love it, but everyone else may feel a little cheated. The laughs are too few, especially when a horny minotaur and a perverted alien sound hilarious on paper. It's a huge wonder how they managed to get Natalie Portman on board.

2/5

Wild

****
UK Release Date: January 16th 2015

A chronicle of one woman's 1,100-mile solo hike undertaken as a way to recover from a recent catastrophe.

Director: Jean-Marc Vallee (The Young Victoria, Dallas Buyers Club)

Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Thomas Sadoski

Reese Witherspoon is captivating and truly magnetic in this wonderfully abstract tale of redemption and determination. Without her powerful presence, Wild would cripple under a fair to middling narrative. Embarking on an epic hike along the Pacific Crest Trail is no mean feat. It does, however, have an end to it, much to Cheryl's (Witherspoon) discretion, who has to face reality at some point. She embarks on a form of escapism, leaving the world and its problems behind. All her woes and troubles are gone but not forgotten, as we're opened up to her life through a series of flashbacks. Strayed's story (a made up name she gave herself) keeps us fixated at all times, whether its through her past (drug addiction, adultery, or her relationship with her mother) or present day, where she meets new people, good and bad, ends up stranded with nothing to eat or ultimately buckles under the weight and pressure of her journey.  Wild is an endearing test of human strength.

4/5

The Woman in Black: Angel of Death

***
UK Release Date: January 1st 2015

40 years after the first haunting at Eel Marsh House, a group of children evacuated from WWII London arrive, awakening the house's darkest inhabitant.

Director: Tom Harper

Starring: Phoebe Fox, Helen McCrory, Jeremy Irvine

The Woman in Black: Angel of Death is an honourable stab at a sequel that we never expected to see. How can they carry on from the ending of the first film? They can't, that's why it's set 40 odd years after Daniel Radcliffe's encounter with the woman in black. school teacher Eve (Fox), along with Headmistress Jean (McCrory) lead a group children to Eel Marsh House from the bombings in WW2. The irony. The ghost still lurks in the shadows, and a little too deeply. There's enough scares to keep AoD appealing but the story sticks too close to the original. It's not as creepy as the first, but the jumps more than make up for it. Angel of Death has got its advantages and disadvantages and sadly it'll always be compared to its predecessor. The age rating is higher and doesn't need to be (depending on your outlook of the first one). It's gorgeously shot, with the darkness devouring all. Something is hiding in every nook and cranny. The ghost coaxes the children to kill themselves. One by one they fall, their deaths as horrible as the next. Death is everywhere, and it's painfully quiet. None of this makes up for yet another shoddy ending. Director Tom Harper and scriptwriter Jon Croker have played it safe, sticking to first film's formula. There's no original ideas in this British horror, but it'll still give you a heck of a fright.

3/5

Paddington

*****
UK Release Date: November 28th 2014

A young Peruvian bear travels to London in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone at Paddington Station, he meets the kindly Brown family, who offer him a temporary haven.

Director: Paul King

Starring: Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Nicole Kidman, Ben Whishaw, Imelda Staunton, Michael Gambon, Peter Capaldi, Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent, Matt Lucas

Paddington Bear has been a lovable character from Michael Bond's books for over 50 years. 2014's Paddington is the first attempt at a live action film, and what a delight it is. Don't be too skeptical or discontent just yet; this bear has been rejuvenated and treated endearingly so a new generation of children can enjoy his antics once again.  The bear, from deepest, darkest Peru, equipped with his red hat and supply of marmalade, makes his journey to London to find a new home. He arrives at Paddington station, and meets the Brown family, who take him in temporarily so he can find the explorer who discovered his Aunt and Uncle long ago.

Paddington is uplifting, consistently funny and querky. The script is chock full of pleasantries and satires, with the littlest touch being the richest. Watch a painting of a tree in the Brown's house reflect the film's atmosphere or a lost and found sign above the lonely bear come in to focus. There's a lot to love; London looks fantastic and surprisingly clean. Jokes pop-up about cab drivers and the Underground, and as Paddington points out there's a place for everyone in this big city.

Colin Firth was originally on board to voice Paddington, but in hindsight, his voice doesn't match. It would be a bit odd this small, loving bear having a well-spoken, handsome voice. Thankfully those reigns were passed over to Ben Wishaw (Skyfall's Q), who's softly spoken, yet manages to bring out the best in the duffle coat hair-ball. Every actor plays their part; the Brown's are considerably heart-warming... even Hugh Bonneville who's over-protective head-of-the-house wants Padds gone from the get go. Kidman's taxidermist-come-villain Millicent wants his head on a plate, to add to her illustrious collection of stuffed animals. She looks and feels like she's plopped straight out of a Hitchcock film. Paddington broadcasts Britain's finest within Britain's brightest hotspot, or at least that's what we're led to believe, and by God, it make it so.

Verdict: Paddington is a magical spectacle, its visuals believable and poetic. A must see for the whole family.

5/5

Ride Along

**
UK Release Date: February 28th 2014

Security guard Ben must prove himself to his girlfriend's brother, top cop James. He rides along James on a 24-hour patrol of Atlanta.

Director: Tim Story (Taxi, Fantastic Four, Think Like a Man)

Starring: Kevin Hart, Ice Cube, Tika Sumpter, John Leguizamo, Bryan Callen, Laurence Fishburne

Ride Along follows the same Buddy-cop formula we know too well. Unfortunately, it has nothing new to offer on the table. Hard-ass cop James (Cube) brings brother-in-law-to-be Benv (Hart), a security guard who's about to join the police academy, on a ride along, to scare him away from the police and his sister, Angela (Sumpter). Opposites don't attract with Cube and Hart. They lack the flare seen in Rush Hour or Lethal Weapon. Cube has no idea he's in a comedy and zero moral fibre. Hart is hyperactive and outrageously annoying. His gaming expertise somehow gets them out of tricky situations. Someone needs to tell him that shouting everything he says isn't funny, and here in lies Ride Along's problem; it's clunky, and for the majority, boring. Even the supporting cast (Luguizamo and Fishburne especially) can't save us.

2/5

Taken 3

*
UK Release Date: January 8th 2015

Ex-government operative Bryan Mills is accused of a ruthless murder he never committed or witnessed. As he is tracked and pursued, Mills brings out his particular set of skills to find the true killer and clear his name.

Director: Olivier Megaton (Transporter 3, Colombiana, Taken 2)

Starring: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen, Forest Whitaker, Dougray Scott 

There was always a good chance that there would be a 3rd Taken after Taken 2 did shockingly well at the box office ($376m) considering its standard plot and lower age-rating. Surely it couldn't get any worse? Lo and behold, Taken 3 is an appalling ending to a pointless trilogy. Where to begin? The setup is slightly better than the second film; Bryan Mills (Neeson) is framed for a murder he did not commit. In fact, just like The Hangover 3 where there is no hangover, no one gets taken. Instead, Mills is on the run from the authorities for nearly 109 minutes. Suffocating under this complete nonsense is not what we bargained for. Let's put it into perspective: Taken has an 18 certificate, plenty of blood, violence and off-the-edge-of-your-seat action. Totally gripping from start to finish. Taken 2 was toned down with a 15 certificate and the action was still decent enough to watch. With Taken 3, we have a 12A certificate, almost a 'family friendly' film, with no blood and terrible action. Not once do you feel like Mills or his daughter Kim (Grace) are in any real danger. Taken was chock full of genius ideas, now we're watching Mills spike his own daughter's yogurt so they can talk in a toilet. Neeson may do all his own fighting scenes, but you can tell by the look on his face that he's too old for this shit. Steer clear of this as it will taint your viewing of the first film. At least Whitaker is here to keep small sections entertaining.

1/5    

The Dark Knight

*****
UK Release Date: July 24th 2008

When the menace known as the Joker wreaks havoc and chaos on the people of Gotham, the caped crusader must come to terms with one of the greatest psychological tests of his ability to fight injustice.

Director: Christopher Nolan (Memento, Batman Begins, The Prestige)

Starring: Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Michael Cane, Gary Oldman, Aaron Eckhart, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Morgan Freeman

Christoper Nolan, along with his brother and fellow scriptwriter Jonathan Nolan, bring out the best in their characters, no matter how much screen time they get. Batman Begins had Bruce Wayne (Bale) coming to terms with his past and battling inner demons. In The Dark Knight, Wayne wishes to hang up the gauntlets and pass the responsibility on to someone more respected, like Harvey Dent (Eckhart), Gotham's District Attorney, someone who doesn't have to hide behind a mask. 'The Batman' is bad for crime, but crime is hitting breaking point with the Joker (Ledger) around. He's a criminal like no other. Batman and the authorities are constantly one step behind him. The Dark Knight is Heath Ledger's moment of glory. His Joker differs from Jack Nicholson's, taking a psychologically disturbed and overly delirious approach. Bale and the rest are just as fascinating to watch. The Joker pushes Batman to his limits, provoking Wayne to give up and reveal himself. The Joker takes the best of what's good and makes it rot. Every scene is gorgeously shot, with most of them set at night. Gotham looks pretty, but it's shell is full of mayhem. 

5/5

The Theory of Everything

****
UK Release Date: January 1st 2015

A look at the relationship between the famous physicist Stephen Hawking and his wife.

Director: James Marsh (Shadow Dancer)

Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones, David Thewlis

The Theory of Everything is the first film to be released in the UK. There are many still to come, but none will have such endearing and powerful performances as Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones. This film is a roller-coaster of emotions. It depicts the story of Stephen (Redmayne) and Jane Hawking (Jones), from the moment they meet each other. Both are prim and proper, but their differences draw them together. They fall in love, but Stephen's gradual decline in health threatens their short relationship. Stephen his diagnosed with motor-neuron disease and told he only has two years to live. Watching Redmayne drop something or trip over his own feet, to relying on a walking stick, then two, and eventually a walking chair and loosing his voice, is absolutely gut-wrenching. Redmayne must've trained extensively to pull off his mannerisms and quirks so perfectly. Felicity Jones is just as stunning. Living with someone who's disease has lasted far longer than it should've takes plenty of patience and will power, not to mention dedication. Felicity portray all of this with her acting. You can't help but feel sympathetic when Stephen's health takes a turn for the worst. Eddie manages to express himself with just a smile or a twinkle of the eye. Absolutely superb. Felicity and Eddie will be hitting the 2015 award ceremonies by storm. The Theory of Everything is a must watch for those whose love perseveres.

4/5   

Joe

****
UK Release Date: July 25th 2014

An ex-con, who is the unlikeliest of role models, meets a 15-year-old boy and is faced with the choice of redemption or ruin.

Director: David Gordon Green (Pineapple Express, Your Highness, The Sitter)

Starring: Nicolas Cage, Tye Sheridan, Gary Poulter

Nicolas Cage has been in some shoddy films of late, The older he gets, the worse they same to be. Not with Joe. It's arguably his greatest performance since the late 90's. Joe (Cage) is an ex-convict who's solemn, cold but looking to stay out of trouble. . It changes when young Gary (Sheridan) starts working for him. Joe can't let Wade (Poulter), Gary's alcoholic father, ruin his life any longer. Joe can't stand idly by and see others get hurt if he knows he can do something about it. Joe is consistently formidable. Cage, Sheridan and Poulter are all outstanding. All three bring out the strongest of emotions; you can't help feeling sorry for Gary, you'll be egging Joe on and the anger will flow whenever Wade (a.k.a G-Daawg) is on screen. The story is strong, never dipping or rising in level, and southern America, in a mostly sunset drenched heat, looks warm but feels chilly thanks to the lively camerawork. A bit of a kick in the teeth under the circumstances. Joe is an uncomfortable, mesmerising watch.

4/5

Exodus: Gods and Kings

****
UK Release Date: December 26th 2014

The defiant leader Moses rises up against the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses, setting 600,000 slaves on a monumental journey of escape from Egypt and its terrifying cycle of deadly plagues.

Director: Ridley Scott (Prometheus, Blade Runner, Alien)

Starring: Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton, John Turturro, Aaron Paul, Maria Valverde, Sigourney Weaver, Ben Kingsley

Some will see Exodus: Gods and Kings as Ridley Scott's redemption after the 'love-it-or-hate-it' Prometheus in 2012. It contains the grandness and spectacle we like to see in an epic disaster/action movie, yet never amounts to more than a soft boil when we would love a full on explosion. There are morals to the biblical tale of Moses and the Hebrews. No matter the odds, there is room for hope. With a little belief, anything is possible. Christian Bale is Moses, cast out by his brother Ramses (played by Joel Edgerton, in very fine form) after finding out he's Hebrew, one of the very people he enslaves. Bale and Edgerton are sublime; the latter's act of evil will be his downfall (morals to be learned here) and the former's personal demons are akin to God, who takes the form of a young child. One plays with God, the other think he's God. The middle seciton of Exodus is wrought with the deadly plagues. These acts of God are benevolent to watch but also feels like watching a documentary. Characters sit back and relax whilst events unfold. Thankfully this two and a half hour film doesn't feel stretched because the acting is tough and the scenery is impeccable. The ending, however, may leave you with mixed emotions.

4/5

Wreck-It Ralph

*****
UK Release Date: February 8th 2013

A video game villain wants to be a hero and sets out to fulfill his dream, but his quest brings havoc to the whole arcade where he lives.

Director: Rich Moore

Starring: John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer, Jane Lynch, Alan Tudyk

Ralph (Reilly) is a bad guy, trying to be a good guy. In order for him to be accepted by his fellow game characters (from Fix-It Felix) he must claim a medal, or become the hero. His personal adventure takes us through the incredibly thought out world (Game Central Station is superb), where all the arcade games in a shop are linked together. He goes from his nasty pile of bricks to a Halo-esque (Heroes Duty) first person shooter to the cute and sickly sweet sugar rush. Both Heroes Duty and Sugar Rush are both made up; Rich Moore has added his own depth to Wreck-It Ralph, giving old and new generations plenty to get wet with excitement. It's definitely a Disney animation to be enjoyed by all. The old generation are given the upper hand due to the many game references. Ralph, Felix (McBrayer), HD's Calhoun (Lynch) and SR's glitchy Vanellope (Silverman) are all lovable charcters, giving us a taste of the well known and the introduced. Wreck-It Ralph escapes into Disney's comfort zone for a split second, but who cares? We know what to expect with a Walt Disney animation, that's why we watch it. Your eyes will be darting all over the place trying to spot every nerdy reference. Look out for Sonic, the Metal Gear Solid exclamation mark and Ryu and Ken having a beer, only to name a few. Plus, what better way is there to start the film than with Ralph attending a bad guy's anonymous group pouring his heart out?

5/5

Chef

****
UK Release Date: June 25th 2014

A chef who loses his restaurant job starts up a food truck in an effort to reclaim his creative promise, while piecing back together his estranged family.

Director: Jon Favreau (Elf, Iron Man, Cowboys & Aliens)

Starring: Jon Favreau, Sofia Vergara, John Leguizamo, Scarlett Johansson, Bobby Cannavale, Emjay Anthony

Chef is a delightful film directed and starring Jon Favreau that shows you that there's more to life than the day-to-day life. It's a feelgood film with plenty of taste and lots of flare. Plus it'll make you very, very hungry. Favreau's Carl Casper starts from the bottom and works his way to the top. He loses his job and has a troubled relationship with his son. Casper's remedies the situation by starting his own business providing food on-the-go whilst having Percy (Anthony) around him more. The actors impress; Favreau has us sympathetic whenever things go wrong for him (his inability to use Twitter and his son teaching him shows how different generations work). He's full of heart and soul. Passion drives him forward. Seeing him progress as a human being keeps the film ticking. Leguizamo, Vergara and young Emjay Anothony support Favreau in one of the best rainy-day films of the year.

4/5

Grudge Match

***
UK Release Date: January 24th 2014

A pair of aging boxing rivals are coaxed out of retirement to fight one final bout -- 30 years after their last match.

Director: Peter Segal (Get Smart, The Longest Yard, 50 First Dates)

Starring: Robert De Niro, Sylvester Stallone, Kevin Hart, Alan Arkin, Kim Basinger, Jon Bernthal

Neither Sylvester Stallone or Robert De Niro have anything to prove in Grudge Match. It's basically Rocky vs. Jake La Motta, except the lack of blood, sweat and tears. Instead, we're left with family turmoil, years of bitterness (mainly from De Niro's Billy 'The Kid' as his and 'Razor' Sharp's last fight ended in a draw) and mild drama. There's not many laughs to be found, but when they do come they are rewarding; Stallone and De Niro's first meeting is memorable, and thankfully the serious parts are too. Kevin Hart is annoying as usual, but Jon Bernthal brings quality when Grudge Match needs it most.

3/5

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

****

Date: December 12th 2014

Bilbo and Company are forced to engage in a war against an array of combatants and keep the terrifying Smaug from acquiring a kingdom of treasure and obliterating all of Middle-Earth.

Director: Peter Jackson (The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug)

Starring: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage, Luke Evans, Benedict Cumberbatch, Orlando Bloom, Evangeline Lilly, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, Hugo Weaving, James Nesbitt, Lee Pace, Billy Connolly

CONTAINS SPOILERS

Peter Jackson's last hurrah will admittedly ruffle a few feathers. Those familiar with the book will always stand bewildered at how he's managed to spread a 368 page book into almost 9 hours of film. Those who haven't read it may see The Battle of the Five Armies as a fitting conclusion to the Middle-Earth saga.

First and foremost calling it The Battle of the Five Armies over There and Back Again gives the third film basis and quality. It takes the best parts of The Two Towers and The Return of the King and supplies us with a grand showdown. As you may have already noticed, naming it as such means there's no room for Smaug the Magnificent. The Desolation of Smaug sees him at his best, but now he's at his worst, as he doesn't last longer than the opening credit.


It all happens a bit too quick for anyone's liking, seeing as though TDOS builds his character/monster up, creating a foreboding, terrifying menace, only for him to come crashing down. It's grand, but it should have lasted longer given the time the dragon has previously spent on screen.

Focus has now shifted towards an upcoming battle between Men, Elves, Dwarves and Orcs, orchestrated by the Orc Captain Azog and Thorin's greed. Armitage is the man with the magic. Today, is his day. Just like his father before him, Thorin is suffering with the dragon sickness. He trusts no one, believes that everyone is deceiving him and will not give up one drop of gold to those who think they have the right. Armitage wants the Arkenstone more than anything. He won't stop until this relic has been found.

Bilbo (Freeman) is the other sparkling jewel here. Again, it's less about individual characters and more about bonds, enemies and what's to come after (LOTR). Bilbo, just like he's done before, plays his part and stands as a strong figure amongst friends and foes.

There has to be chunk of improvisation if Peter Jackson is to pull off an impeccable ending, and he manages it, just about. All those who've read the book will know the majority of the ending is made up. Don't get me wrong, the results are the same but how PJ propels us to these results is what's different. It will solely depend on your taste. I've read the book several times and I still enjoyed the film. It was unexpected and very pleasant.

Many differences will be too much for some to digest. For example Tauriel (Lilly) and Kili's (Turner) romance, Beorn having all but three shots and the Dwarves still having little to say (or in Bombur's case, nothing at all). Tying up loose ends with the Nazgul and Sauron was a joy to watch, as The Battle of the Five Armies leads us up to Frodo's adventures, but you can't help feeling some of those missing pieces will be filled with the extended edition release.

Verdict: There's plenty to like for those who've never read the book, and plenty to dislike if you have. One thing's for certain, one thing we're very glad of, is TBOTFA ends swiftly, unlike TROTK.

4/5

Team America: World Police

****
UK Release Date: January 14th 2005

Popular Broadway actor Gary Johnston is recruited by the elite counter-terrorism organization Team America: World Police. As the world begins to crumble around him, he must battle with terrorists, celebrities and falling in love.

Director: Trey Parker

Starring: Trey Parker, Matt Stone

If you're familiar with Parker and Stone's work (South Park, Baseketball) then you know what you're in for with Team America: World Police. The animation is different this time round: no more cartoons or live action. Puppets (Thunder Birds style) are the new forte and what better way to mock politics and war than with propped-up, big-eyed, nonsensical figurines? 

By using puppets Trey Parker and Matt Stone make it fully aware that TA:WP is not to be taken seriously, even if their jokes rub people the wrong way. It starts strong, but fizzles a tad at the end when focus shifts from terrorists to celebrities. Team America are a patriotic bunch of fools who think they're help the world. Taking out terrorists in Paris and Cairo is not all they manage to achieve as they blow up the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Egyptian Temples in the process. They hire a stage actor to infiltrate terrorists, and crush the heart of the source.  

TA is as authentic as you can get... in a world of marionettes. There's only a single drop of CGI, the rest is cosmetics and synthetics. Whoever knew puppet sex and puppets puking their guts up could be so funny? What stops Parker and Stone's creation from being consistently great is their celebrity piss takes. Having the Film Actors Guild (made up) has its moments; Matt Damon's character has been quoted the best part of a decade now, but some of them are incomprehensible without captions showing their names. Sticking to political issues would've been better. As much as the FAG draw out some laughs, it's nothing compared to crude songs, real life cats attacking the team and puppet plastic surgery.  

Verdict: Team America: World Police is just as much a mockery on North Korea as it is the USA. No matter where you're from, try to keep an open mind. It isn't trying to offend.

4/5

St. Vincent

*****
UK Release Date: December 5th 2014

A young boy whose parents have just divorced finds an unlikely friend and mentor in the misanthropic, bawdy, hedonistic war veteran who lives next door.

Director: Theodore Melfi

Starring: Bill Murray, Melissa McCarthy, Naomi Watts, Chris O'Dowd, Terrence Howard, Jaeden Lieberher

Bill Murray is a gem. Vincent is a grumpy old man who has nothing nice to say about anyone. He drinks, he bets and he has his way with a lady of the night, but what makes him such a mean, selfish person? Our interest for him widens the moment he meets Oliver (young, up and coming talent Lieberher), the son of his new neighbour, Melissa McCarthy.

McCarthy's a single mother who spends most of her time nursing at the local hospital, so it becomes unfitting and cumbersome for Vincent (not to mention bad timing) to take duty as surrogate father. He's not the greatest role model, but Oliver and Vincent bond. They help each other in ways they never imagined.

Murray's performance is dazzling, making Vincent a likeable mess, even if he's repugnant for the majority of the film. There's an obvious light at the end of the tunnel as this comedy switches to drama. Vincent has more to show than his exterior makes out. St. Vincent descends into a mushy, watery eyed divinity that no one can resist.

There's some spectacular acting amongst the crowd. McCarthy is the best she's ever been with a toned down, sweetly empathetic role, Chris O'Dowd rewards us with wit and sarcasm and Watts' Russian philanderer is odd but plays ball well. These three, including Murray and Lieberher, make a soft story a stronger one. 

Verdict: St. Vincent is charming, funny and attractive, and it's all down to execution.

Horrible Bosses 2

***
UK Release Date: November 28th 2014

Dale, Kurt and Nick decide to start their own business but things don't go as planned because of a slick investor, prompting the trio to pull off a harebrained and misguided kidnapping scheme.

Director: Sean Anders (That's My Boy)

Starring: Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx, Chris Pine, Christoph Waltz, Kevin Spacey, Jonathan Banks

Horrible Bosses treated us to a bumbling trio that cave under pressure and get themselves into further trouble. But what a likeable, bumbling trio they are. Nick (Bateman), Kurt (Sudeikis) and Dale (Day) hate their bosses, a lot. Their idea to bump off their bosses to get themselves out of a rut are outrageous. This time round, the guys have toned down their plots and shenanigans by replacing murderous adventures with kidnapping ones. Don't be too disappointed though, as there are plenty of the same antics on show.

If anything there's a touch more squabbling going on, as we see from the very first scene. Nick, Kurt and Dale are on a morning T.V. show, advertising their new product, the 'Shower Buddy' ('I prefer the Shower Daddy' says Dale). It's as ill named as it sounds. The threesome are their own bosses now, so no more problems, right? Wrong.

Christoph Waltz's investment tycoon Bert Hanson takes a shine to their product, but backs out at the last minute, leaving Nick, Kurt and Dale in financial trouble. Their plan? To kidnap Hanson's arrogant, obnoxious son, Rex (Chris Pine). 

Waltz's horrible boss isn't as impressive as Aniston's sex-driven dentist, Spacey's maniacal businessman or Colin Farrell's drugged up scoundrel. He's underwritten, but so are the good guys. Dale blurts out the truth when he's under pressure, Nick tries to play the good Samaritan (just like he does in all his films) and Kurt's consistently inappropriate. Their characters never pass the development they got in the first film. Spacey and Aniston provide welcome cameos, with the latter of the two pushing her nymphomaniac trouble-maker to a whole new level. Chris Pine reaps rewards, with a twist that differs from the first involving his funny yet destructive character. Jamie Foxx's Motherfucker Jones is a little too familiar, but funny all the same.

Verdict: Not as good as the first, but contains plenty of assets from it that we loved so much. A gradual improvement rather than a consistent one.

3/5