Skyfall ★★★★½

NOBODY DOES IT BETTER

Australia: 22nd November, 2012; USA 9th November UK 26th October

Other Countries: Release Dates
 

 

My poor husband suffered terribly after watching Skyfall. He doesn’t normally eat popcorn as his stomach is not a fan but a kindly friend gave us a huge bucket. So by the time the initial chase sequence was over and the iconic opening credits montage had begun, he’d scoffed half the bucket. Supposedly, he was so engrossed and heady from the action he didn’t know what he was doing.

A small price to pay one would say in the viewing of what may, according to the fans, or may not be, according to some critics, the greatest Bond film yet. Pulling in $60 million in seven days in the UK, it has just beaten out the previous record-holder, ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2’. This year being the 50^th anniversary of the Bond films, and Skyfall the twenty-third in the series, the makers wanted to bring all the key Bond elements together to make the longest-running film franchise in history as exciting today as it was in 1962.

So we have the breathtaking opening chase scene—best watched away from the popcorn bucket—the gorgeous women, the impossible escapes, the menacing villain and the suave sophistication that is only James Bond. Interestingly enough, the screen-writing team of Neal Purvis and Robert Wade, veterans of Bond films, along with Academy Award®-winner John Logan must have decided that technology is so yesterday. It’s a bold move that Bond is not delivered his usual gadgetry but simply supplied with a gun and a ‘radio’ via his new young upstart Quartermaster Q (Ben Whishaw).
 

Despair not as the film sets out to prove that a Bond film’s greatness requires only James Bond, a nemesis and action. In fact we are reminded throughout that he may be older, less fit, battle-scarred and possibly redundant, yet with his experience nobody does it better.

After the opening chase where things go terribly wrong, Bond (Daniel Craig) is presumed dead. Even worse, he and fellow agent Eve (Naomie Harris) have allowed key information to fall into enemy hands. She is relegated to a desk job and James takes a secret break. When an unknown terrorist wreaks random havoc by bombing MI6, releasing secret agents identities on the internet, and targeting M (Judi Dench) with threatening messages, Bond returns. M’s career is also in danger from Gareth Mallory (Ralph Fiennes) who is sent in to manage her out of her job.
 

 

Bond tracks the terrorist to Shanghai and the action is paused for an interlude with the stunning Sévérine (Bérénice Marlohe) wearing a dress to die for. She is the girlfriend of Silva (Javier Bardem), the mastermind behind the attacks and the unstoppable techno savvy villain out to seek revenge.

But a Bond film is all about the action and breathtaking stunts. Javier Bardem describes watching Craig take on the role: “There is some physicality to my role but of course mine compared to Daniel’s was nothing. And he does the action scenes so easily. From the outside, watching him, I was thinking, ‘If I were you, I wouldn’t be doing that!’” Bardem laughs.

Stunt Coordinator Gary Powell, appreciates the advance in digital technology and computer graphics, but prefers Bond action to be real. He says, “Though the opening sequence lasts only twelve minutes on screen, it took three months of rehearsals and two months of filming to produce. Standing on top of a train, travelling at 50 kilometers per hour, fighting with Ola Rapace going over a bridge, was probably a stand out moment.”

The humour and wit is back, as well as an iconic car—which had the audience applauding. If there was ever a movie to see in the cinema it is ‘Skyfall’. You don’t hit fifty looking this good by resting on your laurels. Buckle up, put the popcorn under the seat until you feel it’s safe—you’ll know when—and join the world in their love affair with this iconic character who still has what it takes to kill and thrill.

 

 

What is your favourite Bond film and favourite theme song? 

 

 

Official Site  http://www.jamesbondskyfall.com.au/site/

 

 

 

 

Weekly Review Round Up 16th November 2012

THIS WEEK'S PREVIEWS

What should you spend your precious dollars on when visiting the cinema? What needs popcorn to enjoy?  And what needs waiting until DVD?

If you have seen any of these or want to see them and have a comment please feel free to share. We love hearing from our readers.

 

Robot & Frank ★★★★

(My movie Pick of the week)

Opens in Australia: 15^th November 2012

Other Countries: Release Information

 

OUR THOUGHTS

This film is divine.  And I know the robot doesn’t look hi-tech but that is the charm of the film.  Christopher D. Ford’s screenplay and Jake Schreier direction are simple but powerful.  First and foremost it’s a great story with wonderful humour and I could kiss Frank Langella for being so wonderful ( I know he is always wonderful).  I expected to like this but not love it the way I did. The whole family enjoyed it as well.  As the cranky husband—he’s cranky cause he’s dragged to so many previews—said on the way out, ‘That’s all you want from a movie, a good story that makes you laugh, makes you think and entertains you for a couple of hours.’ Touché, to that I say.   

STUDIO BLURB

Set in the near future, Frank, a retired cat burglar, has two grown kids who are concerned he can no longer live alone. They are tempted to place him in a nursing home until Frank's son chooses a different option: against the old man's wishes, he buys Frank a walking, talking humanoid robot programmed to improve his physical and mental health. What follows is an often hilarious and somewhat heartbreaking story about finding friends and family in the most unexpected places. -- (C) Samuel Goldwyn

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 ★^½

Opens in Australia: 15^th November 2012

Other Countries: Release Information

OUR THOUGHTS

First up, I just want to say please if you are a Twihard go and see this. It has everything that you love about the books and films; the Lautner shirtless shots, Bella and Edward groping each other, montages with a music track and a not too awful fight scene. We need you to go in droves and fill the coffers of the film studio so they can continue to make movies that are not so mainstream.

However, for those who appreciate the art of cinema this is one of the worst things I have ever seen. It felt like a bunch of film students had got together and made an assignment video on their iPads. Since Director Bill Condon has made some fabulous films in the past I can only think there were too many fingers in the pie. The long, lingering soap-opera shots& the deathly slow pace, along with Michael Sheen’s bizarre performance as leader of the Voltari gave it a real amateur hour feel. I know every reviewer is breathing a sigh of relief that it is finally over but you do know that Stephenie Meyer’s wrote another side-story book about a Twilight character entitled, ‘The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner’, don’t you? So, how long before the studio decides they need another coffer boost. I say, 2014, after The Host next year. Anyone want to make a bet?

STUDIO BLURB

The astonishing conclusion to the series, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 2, illuminates the secrets and mysteries of this spellbinding romantic epic that has entranced millions. -- (C) Official Site

Two Days in New York ★★^½

Opens in Australia: 22^nd November 2012

Other Countries: Release Information

OUR THOUGHTS

I don’t understand why they made this movie.  It just doesn’t have much going on.  There is so much to play with in a story with cross-cultural and language misunderstandings that it could have been really funny.  But it’s only a little bit funny and mostly blah.  Chris Rock’s monologues are not that amusing even though he is quite a funny guy.  It’s a poor effort at a Woody Allen style of comedy and commentary but I would rather re-watch HANNAH AND HER SISTERS instead of sitting through this.  Nothing new here so I wouldn’t bother with this one, even on DVD.   

STUDIO BLURB

Hip talk-radio host and journalist Mingus (Chris Rock) and his French photographer girlfriend, Marion (Julie Delpy), live cozily in a New York apartment with their cat and two young children from previous relationships. But when Marion's jolly father (played by Delpy's real-life dad, Albert Delpy), her oversexed sister, and her sister's outrageous boyfriend unceremoniously descend upon them for an overseas visit, it initiates two unforgettable days of family mayhem. The visitors push every button in the couple's relationship, truly putting it to the test. How will the couple fare. . . when the French come to New York? -- (C) Magnolia

What have you seen this week? Did you find our comments helpful or do you disagree? Share your thoughts with us.

Disney's Oz The Great and Powerful Trailer

Australia: 7th March 2013; USA 8th March 2013 UK 8th March 2013

Other Countries: Release Dates

After watching this trailer I am not sure I can wait until March 2013.  It looks amazing.

 

 

 

         Disney’s fantastical adventure Oz The Great and Powerful, directed by Sam Raimi, imagines the origins of L. Frank Baum’s beloved wizard character. When Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a small-time circus magician with dubious ethics, is hurled away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot—fame and fortune are his for the taking—that is until he meets three witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz) and Glinda (Michelle Williams), who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone’s been expecting.
         Reluctantly drawn into the epic problems facing the Land of Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it is too late. Putting his magical arts to use through illusion, ingenuity—and even a bit of wizardry—Oscar transforms himself not only into the great and powerful wizard but into a better man as well.

 Discover the Land of Oz here

Only at the Movies in Australia MARCH 7, 2013
 

Killing Them Softly ★ ★ ★ ★

It's a Hard Business

 

Australia: 11th October, 2012; USA 30th November UK 21st September

Other Countries: Release Dates

There is nothing soft about the way people die in KILLING THEM SOFTLY.  In the same vein as the recent SEVEN PSYCHOPATHS, and cult classic PULP FICTION, if you are squeamish with on-screen blood and brutal killings then you may want to drag out THE GODFATHER instead—which seems so terribly mild these days.

In fact, it seems the violence in films has increased dramatically in the past few years and you can’t help wondering if it is art reflecting life or vice versa.  How can a violent assault on a racketeer, or killing after killing of not so innocent victims be entertaining even enlightening? 
Yet, KILLING THEM SOFTLY, written for the screen and directed by Andrew Dominik, certainly gives you an insight into the notion that even the bad guys are taking a hit (excuse the  pun) as a result of the economic downturn.

Based on the George V. Higgins novel, ‘Cogan’s Trade’, we enter the world of underworld enforcer Jackie Cogan (Brad Pitt).  He’s the go-to guy when you want somebody taught a “life” lesson or removed from the playing field.

Markie Trattman (Ray Liotta) has the misfortune of having his mob poker game robbed by two of the dumbest thieves you will ever meet Frankie (Scoot McNairy) and Russell (Ben Mendelsohn).  Imagine that, for gloves for the heist, Russell brings over-sized bright yellow washing up numbers.  Yep, say no more.  And most of the time they are either stoned, drunk or bringing themselves into harm’s way from sheer stupidity. 

The Mob is clearly a professional corporation, with Richard Jenkins (the driver) as the messenger, who brings in Jackie to investigate the robbery and dispense justice.  He in turn brings in Mickey (James Gandolfini) an esteemed hit-man.  It’s a cat and mouse game with the very cool Jackie becoming increasingly frustrated with the idiocy of hit-men, the mob and the ignorant heist guys.

It’s funny and gritty, and although a little unwieldy in parts, the corporate suffering financial constraints concept—albeit the mob—and the cool manner in which Cogan runs his enforcer business—as if he is delivering newspapers instead of death—makes a riveting story.

 

 

 

Weekly Film Review Round Up 9th November 2012

THIS WEEK'S PREVIEWS

What should you spend your precious dollars on when visiting the cinema? What needs popcorn to enjoy?  And what needs waiting until DVD?

If you have seen any of these or want to see them and have a comment please feel free to share. We love hearing from our readers.

 

The Sessions ★★★★^1/2  (My movie Pick of the week)

 

Opens in Australia: 8^th November 2012

Other Countries: Release Information

OUR THOUGHTS

‘Give me a moment,’ I said to my husband as the end credits rolled.  I couldn’t stop sobbing.  Yep that was me blubbering like a baby in the fifth row.  It’s not a movie that sounds remotely interesting.  In fact, a guy in an iron lung having sex with a sex therapist, whilst sharing the details with his priest, sounds exactly what you don’t need to see or read or hear about.  BUT, you should see this film.  It’s beautiful, poignant and, dare I say it, the performances are Oscar worthy.  Helen Hunt gives the bravest performance of her life and though she’s not my fave actress her style really suits this story. It’s about love and what that means.  And though many films attempt to frame that thought, this one actually nails it. 

STUDIO BLURB

Based on the poignantly optimistic autobiographical writings of California-based journalist and poet Mark O'Brien, The Sessions tells the story of a man confined to an iron lung who is determined - at age 38 - to lose his virginity. With the help of his therapists and the guidance of his priest, he sets out to make his dream a reality. -- (C) Fox Searchlight

 

Seven Psychopaths ★★★★

Opens in Australia: 8^th November 2012

Other Countries: Release Information

OUR THOUGHTS

You shouldn’t laugh in this film.  It’s violent, the language is foul and the characters, well, they’re, ah… psychopaths. So you also shouldn’t care about them.  But you do.   Just as you guffawed at the violent & anti-social behaviour in  Pulp Fiction, Kill Bill and Machete, Seven Psychopaths will have you laughing out loud at the superb lines and ridiculous antics of these outrageous characters.  Christopher Walken's and Sam Rockwell's performances simply make the film.  This comedy is blacker than black with no shades of grey.  If you squirm at the sight of blood, avoid.

STUDIO BLURB

Marty (Farrell) is a struggling writer who dreams of finishing his screenplay, "Seven Psychopaths". Billy (Rockwell) is Marty's best friend, an unemployed actor and part time dog thief, who wants to help Marty by any means necessary. All he needs is a little focus and inspiration. Hans (Walken) is Billy's partner in crime. A religious man with a violent past. Charlie (Harrelson) is the psychopathetic gangster whose beloved dog, Billy and Hans have just stolen. Charlie's unpredictable, extremely violent and wouldn't think twice about killing anyone or anything associated with the theft. Marty is going to get all the focus and inspiration he needs, just as long as he lives to tell the tale. -- (C) Official Site

Killing Them Softly ★★★^½

Opens in Australia: 11^th October 2012

Other Countries: Release Information

OUR THOUGHTS

In the same vein as SEVEN PSYCHOPATHS, this one is funny and nasty but more character driven and thoughtful.  Brad Pitt, as always, delivers a perfect performance. Good looking, talented and with a gorgeous wife, he certainly never seems to put a foot wrong.  I’ve missed James Gandolfini, since the end of Sopranos, so it was a joy to see him back on screen as a broken down gangster assassin who can’t get his act together.  It’s a little overlong in the set up and a few scenes probably overstayed their welcome but still a pleasure to watch (if you can call watching multiple homicides and bashings a pleasure).

STUDIO BLURB

Three dumb guys who think they're smart rob a Mob protected card game, causing the local criminal economy to collapse. Brad Pitt plays the enforcer hired to track them down and restore order. Killing Them Softly also features Richard Jenkins, James Gandolfini, Ray Liotta, Scoot McNairy, Ben Mendelsohn, and Vincent Curatola. Max Casella, Trevor Long, Slaine and Sam Shepard also make appearances. -- (C) Weinstein

End of Watch ★★★

Opens in Australia: 1^st November 2012

Other Countries: Release Information

OUR THOUGHTS

Big warning on this:  It uses very shaky hand-held cameras like all these FOUND FOOTAGE films.  In this case, there is the added extreme of particularly horrific violence.  One audience member in the row behind (but thank goodness about ten seats along) was violently ill.  It may have been the camerawork or they might have arrived feeling a tad greenish.  All I know is that it was one of the most unusual screenings I’ve ever attended whilst we pondered the fate of the sick patron.  Another warning:  The language is beyond disgusting.  These Mexican street gangs are scary folk and their vocabulary is limited to four letter expletives in every second word.  Not a date film girls, and a little bit of a dull start but it certainly makes you appreciate the tough job of police in certain areas of L.A. 

STUDIO BLURB

From the writer of Training Day, End of Watch is a riveting action thriller that puts audiences at the center of the chase like never before. Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Peña star as young LA police officers who discover a secret that makes them the target of the country's most dangerous drug cartel. -- (C) Open Road

Bachelorette ★★^½

Opens in Australia: 1^st November 2012

Other Countries: Release Information

OUR THOUGHTS

This isn’t bad but it isn’t great.  It’s not BRIDESMAIDS but it’s trying so hard to be, that it hurts.  The first half is funny and the concept should work but the characters aren’t positive if they are good, bad or ugly.  Kirsten Dunst has never looked worse and I’m not sure if Rebel Wilson is as funny with an American accent.  It’s definitely a chick flick, so leave the boyfriend/hubby at home and have a glass of wine beforehand (just one cause you don't want to end up like the characters). It may put you in the right mood.  And again, who do I complain to about the pointless foul language, people? Just because it worked in BRIDESMAIDS doesn’t mean gutter talk is a given in making a hit comedy. (Why not just try writing wit ala Katherine Hepburn)  Half a star off too because I’m sick of the “F” word in film—its lost its meaning. 

STUDIO BLURB

On the night before an old friend's wedding, three frisky bridesmaids go searching for a little fun but find much more than they bargained for. With lovely Becky (Rebel Wilson) set to marry her handsome sweetheart, Dale (Hayes MacArthur), the remaining members of her high school clique reunite for one last bachelorette bacchanal in the Big Apple. Regan (Kirsten Dunst) is an overachieving, ueber-Maid of Honor who's secretly smarting over the fact that she's not the first to marry, while Gena (Lizzy Caplan) is a whip-smart sarcastic who's actually a closet romantic, and Katie (Isla Fisher) is a ditzy beauty who loves the good life. But when Becky insists on keeping the bachelorette party tame, the women proceed with an after-hours celebration of their own. -- (C) Official Site

 

The Master ★★

Opens in Australia: 8^th November 2012

Other Countries: Release Information

OUR THOUGHTS 

There was a buzz about, before ‘The Master’ preview screening.  It’s being touted as an Oscar contender.  Yes, the acting is superb, although, as good as Joaquin Phoenix is, his mumbling meant a lot of what he said was incoherent.  Phillip Seymour Hoffman is a standout as the slimy L. Ron Hubbard type but its not enough to make it an interesting film. There seemed to be a good deal of provocative sexual behaviour that we probably didn’t need to see (imagine that it could also have been called “The Master-bate”).  The Director, Paul Thomas Anderson, seemed uncertain that his audience got the message so he beat us over the head on every point, which makes for a slow and overlong experience.  I think there is a fascinating tale to be told about religions that are akin to cults, ala Scientology, but this isn’t it. 

STUDIO BLURB

A striking portrait of drifters and seekers in post World War II America, Paul Thomas Anderson's The Master unfolds the journey of a Naval veteran (Joaquin Phoenix) who arrives home from war unsettled and uncertain of his future - until he is tantalized by The Cause (insert the religion that Tom Cruise and John Travolta practices) and its charismatic leader (Philip Seymour Hoffman).

 

What have you seen this week? Did you find our comments helpful or do you disagree? Share your thoughts with us.