Review: Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Part 2

In the two weeks that Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part 2 has hit the cinemas, worldwide it as accumulated over $900 million, knocking off Avatar from its 18-day record. Whilst the first installment of the series (The Philosophers Stone.) still remains one of the the highest grossing films of all time, the last one has broken records everywhere. Although I know the time has passed for reviews, I have finally been to see the blockbuster (family ritual, you understand) and I have a lot to say about the action filled finale.

The film kicks off where it ended in the previous film, Harry, Ron and Hermione are still hunting horcruxes around the country, Voldemorte has found the elder wand and The Dark Lord's minions are running rampant. Harry's journey takes him finally to Hogwarts where war is breaking lose as students risks their lifes to save the school they know and love. Harry must face Voldemort in battle and as secrets come to head, the showdown is full of twists and turns.

Now, whilst the first part had much talking and explaining, the second and final part boasts amazing action sequences that will keep your heart racing. From the brilliant fights within Fringrotts to the emotional war in Hogwarts, the special effects (the dragon flying over London is especially fantastic,) keep you on the edge of your seat.

And for the Harry Potter book fans, the film doesn't disappoint in being true to the book, following the over complicated story line without interest faning, revelations are suprising for does who do not know the books yet beautiful and haunting for those who do. As one character comes forth truly in a surprise twist, we learn about courage  in the spectacular finish.

A certain hightlight in the film, for me, are other characters rising to the occasion. Neville Longbottom (played wonderful by Matt) sees a new characteristic to an idiot character who was usually used for laughs. As the other tortured boy (his parents were tortured by Bellatrix Lestrange,) takes bravery to a new level, Neville is definitely a new favourite within the movie series.

The rise in acting is genius as well fFrom theover acting children they once were, the main stars have certainly used techniques without looking like fools. From the hilarious comedic relief of Rupert Grint's Ron to Daniel Radcliffe highly emotive scenes, it is clear that they have a grand future ahead in acting. And don't forget the older actors who still delight as fantastic support from Helen Boham Carter playing a child playing her character to Alan Rickmans' Snape and his evil reign.

But there are moments washed over that sadly should not be missed from the book. For example, many deaths that are poignant within the book are quickly done and over with in the film leaving the audience miffed that some of their other favourite characters die and then it is quickly over. Also, with many parts of the film franchise missed from the other films, it is confusing to see them ended so detailed in the finale (Tonk's and Lupin's son as not only was the relationship brushed over but all of a sudden they have a son?)

Also, the scene at the end, and I felt this about the book, is contrieved and unneeded as we flash forward 19 years later to see ridiculously "aged" characters.

But the mistakes are few and far between; for a Harry Potter fan, whether your films, books or both, Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Part 2 ticks all the right boxes. A high octane film with a strong heartbeat pulsating throughout, the finale brings shock, intrigue, love and just a few tears to the ending of a phenomenom.

4/5
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Film News: The Avengers

You know, I think I am being spoiled a bit over recent weeks with all this superhero m'larky and I'm like a kid at Christmas with the brand new Avengers teaser that has just hit the screens courtesy of Captain America..

Don't know a bit about The Avengers? Ok, I'll tell you and I dont mean that series with the guy in the bowler hat, no no, I'm talking about Marvel's answer to the Justice League;  a collection of kick-ass heroes as they battle with S.H.E.I.L.D to save the universe against a bunch of bad ass super-villians. With heroes such as Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, Loki and Nick Fury in the collection the new film (released next year) is set to be amazing (that paragraph was really hard to right with out fist pumping and swearing out of joy.)

Before I show you this clip, I'll let you know, if you haven't seen Captain America yet it gives away the ending (as it follows on from it.) So you have been warned, don't watch if you dont want to know.

Ok.
Enjoy.

HELL YEAH!

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Film News: Star Trek 2

The current amount of sequels that are going to hit our screens this year, it is no surprise that  JJ Abrams is confirmed to direct Star Trek film, the following the 2009 smash hit Star Trek. There had been speculation as to whether the director would take the reigns of the sequel due to producing Super 8 (the brand new alien film that looks totally scary and awesome.)

And although the original plan date was June 2012, the heads to be at Paramount has pushed it back for the release of GI Joe: The Retaliation of which wins the "we didn't ask for the original so why give us a sequel" award (previous winners include The Lost Boys and Ghost Rider.)

While no information on what Star Trek 2 will be about, we do know that all the Trekky favourites have been signed up including Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto and Simon Pegg. Filming is set to kick off next January and the film is to burst into our cinemas late 2012 or early 2013.

Set to stun, Jim.

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Film News: "The Hangover" Writers Expand Horizons

Although they had nothing to do with the horrendous sequel, The Hangover original writers Jon Lucas and Scott Moore pen yet another buddy drinking film with 21 And Over.

The film revolves around a young medical student who is unwillingly convinced to have one beer just before a big interview for school. However, a phenomenon that we all are aware of, just one drink doesn't end there and it's not long before the night escalates til a series of misadventures and debauchery that none will forget. Cast of this "one drink is never enough" film include Miles Taylor, Skylar Austin and Sarah Wright (It's ok if you don't know who they are, they are new players from films such as Taking Woodstock and Twilight.)

If you are excited about this news, then you may have to wait; filming wont take place til next year but if you want more Lucas/Moore films then The Change Up (a comedy about body swopping) featuring Ryan Reynolds and Jason Bateman hit the cinemas soon.    

For all your bro needs.

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Films To Go See This Week

A huge big block buster hits our screens this week and having already kicked ass in America, we are all excited for The First Avenger to come bursting into our lives. So what film releases are coming out as well? Something to take your kids to? Your first date? Or something totally awesome. 

Captain America: The First Avenger. 

With news of all these superheroes invading our cinemas, the first and most famous one comes out this week and is really the must see Marvel Movie of this summer. Captain America: The First Avenger tells the story of Steve Rogers, a weak and unimpressive man who is deemed unfit for military service during World War 2. Instead, Steve volunteers for a new experiment that causes him to go from weedy to Captain America, a superhero to protect America ideals. 

An action packed movie with brilliant effects and with The Avengers movie coming out next year, we are all excited to see the man who started it all. 

Horrid Henry. 

Children's favourite terror since Dennis the Menace has his own movie and instead of cartoon, it is live action so we get to see actors such as Richard E. Grant, Matthew Horne and Angelica Houston play hilarious roles. The film revolves around Henry, a mischievous boy who would much rather play pranks with his Purple Hand Gang than clean his room or do his homework. A series events, however, cause Henry to team up with his worst enemies (Perfect Peter and Moody Susan,) to save the school that he has always protested to hate. 

Grab your kids, little brother or sister and take them to a gooey and hilarious fest for (most of) the family. 

Zookeeper. 

(AN: I almost dont want to tell you that this is a film for you to go to see. I guess its one of the other big ones being released but I feel like it should come out with a warning. Only go see this film if your friends have no classy humor or there wasn't anything else to watch and your date is so drunk she wont care.)

Zookeeper is a film staring Kevin James as a loveable but loveless zookeeper. When Kate comes into the picture the animals of the zoo decide to break their silence in order to help guide him to true love and happiness; all while trying to stop him get a more illustrious job. 

With whacky characters and slapstick comedy, Zookeeper is perfect for romance and hilarity. 

(You know what, just go and see Harry Potter again.)

Other films to hit the UK blockbuster is heartbreaking Poetry and the dramtaic A Better Life 

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TV News: Stars Stay On In Glee

In recent news, the internet was awash with rumors that Lea Michelle, Corey Monteith and Chris Colfer will be written out of Glee during the fourth season due to their ever aging causing the show to become unrealistic. Well, more unrealistic than it is at the moment.

However, at Comic Con this weekend, producers announced that this was all hogwash and the stars will return despite their characters graduating in season 3. Bradley Falchuck, co-creator and writer, stated that "when you have someone like Lea Michelle on a contract you don't get rid of her."

So even though their characters will not be attending McKinley High School, we will still have them returning and wailing about their problems through the medium of song. As College attendees, we could see Finn moan about drug experiment in a powerful slow rendition of "Because I Got High." We'll watch as Rachel fails audition after audition, inevitable joins an emo/indie band and covers  "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now." And it will be inevitable that Artie will rap, "I Love College" after waking up in a police station and then proceeding to get kick out of college. It could be like Glee meets Skins.

No no no, not the American version.

That's better.


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Film News: Wolf Creek 2

Talking about sequels, Wolf Creek is back and be prepared to be scared witless by Mick Taylor, the psychopathic bushman of the Australian Outback as the writer and director Greg McLean has finally created a worthy script for a sequel. John Jarett will be back as Taylor in fearsome Wolf Creek. 

If you don't remember the previous outing, backpackers around Australia when there car breaks down. Stranded, they foolishly accept help from Mick Taylor who offers to fix there car. What they find is that you cant trust strangers and a gory, frightening series of torturous events falls upon the friends. 

 McLean  and producer Matt Hearn wont give anything away about the details of the sequel but they do promise it to be "scarier, bigger and better" than the first and filming with Jarett will begin early next year. They will be hunting for victims and the film is set to hit our screens 2013. 

Oh wait, did you just feel that shiver down your spine?

No, just me?

Excuse me, I have to change my underwear

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Film News: Ghost Rider 2

Exciting news, pictures of the much anticipated Ghost Rider: Spirit Of Vengeance has hit the internet and magazines and fans are clawing there way to get a sneak peak at them.. 

The story follows Johnny Blaze (Nicolas Cage) who exiled himself to Europe because of a tad little problem of turning all flame-y. Of course, keeping your head down low doesn't last long for Blaze as he is called upon to stop the Devil from completing a ritual that will make give him a complete human form. Blaze must release his fury to stop these events from happening. 

The brill- I mean, the wonde- I-. Okay I can't keep it up, I am trying to write a non biased blog about a Nicolas Cage film but the whole of my body is screaming no. Because despite the fact that the original Ghost Rider film was beyond the levels of terrible and created a whole new genre of awfulness, producers and Cage thought it a perfect franchise to flog. So now next year, somewhere between The Amazing Spider-Man and The Dark Knight Rises, we have Ghost Rider: Spirit OF Vengeance sliced in. Perhaps, Hollywood wanted a break to the monotony of awesome movies.

Who knows? 

All I do know is that this is the worst news to hit my years since the style of "remake" was invented. 

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Film News: Captain America Kicks Ass!

Captain America. is set to hit cinemas in the UK this Friday and though he is the last to arrive, he is the biggest and most famous of the superhero clan. The First Avenger on opening weekend has done better than the previous movies and has already raked in $65.8 million, edging out Thor's movie ever so slightly.

Captain America has also knocked Harry Potter out of the number one spot in America despite Harry Potter already making $200 million worldwide. Hopefully, this plan will roll over in the UK release this weekend. Honestly, I'm not to sure it will translate well over here. While there are many over here who love the comics and Captain America, I think a lot of us will find it contrived American propaganda (America builds superhero to beat the Nazi's?)

Honestly, I believe it looks great and it will be amazing. And that has nothing to do with Chris Evans.

Nothing.

Well, maybe a little...

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Comic Con: Paranormal Activity 3

Yes, it's that time of the year where we must run behind our sofas, jump into the arms of a loved one and practically cry our eyes out as the new trailer for Paranormal Activity 3.

Anyone else jump? Or is anyone else sorely regretting doing "Bloody Mary" as a kid?  

Paranormal Activity 3 is the prequel to the previous films and tells the story of the childhood of Katie and Kristi, the untouched upon story mentioned in the others. What exactly happened? Why had these events transpire? What demon drove them to insanity and followed them to adulthood?

The film is set to be a thrill fest and after this trailer, it is certain that I will never ever look in a mirror in the dark again. 

Gah

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Film News: Seth Rogen and........Zac Efron?

Yes, possible the greatest weirdest news to hit my ears today that two of the most unlikely stars have signed up fora  film together.Seth Rogen and Zac Efron are set to star in a comedy together which was pitched by Funny People's Andrew Cohen and Brendon O'Brian. Though it is still shrouded in mystery and both stars are filming or releasing other films (Rogen has My Mother's Curse and 50/50 . Efron New Years Eve and The Lucky One.)

There's not much to go on about the film but I hear it is supposed to test the actors limits and try something they have never done before.

Seth Rogen will be playing an average slobby Joe Schmuck

Whilst Zac Efron will be playing a popular frat boy.

Huh.

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Apologies About Comic Con

 This weekend San Diego played host to America's annual Comic Con and the city was plagued with hundreds of thousands of fans waiting to get a sneak peak of the latest films to be outed. Stars from the likes of the Twilight Saga to the brand new The Amazing Super-Man cast attended and films such as Snow White and The Huntsmen, Charlies Angels and The Darkest Hour all premiered trailers or sneak peaks for the thousands of nerds.

I'm going to keep this short and sweet. Though much film news was released over the weekend including rumors of Rhys Ifans staring in Bond to the revealing of a fourth Jurassic Park, I feel that because I wasn't there to experience it, I can't safely report news that millions of people who were there can. Also, I am sure it is something that you need to be there for and as this site is relatively new, a trip to America is far far out of my budget.

So instead of looking more of a fool than I do for not being there, I'll give you some great websites if you want to find out more and I'll blog the best I can about film news coming out this year unto the next year as I receive it.

News can be found here and here

I'm sorry about this mess.

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I Think You Should See: A Tale Of Two Sisters

There is something special about the Tartan Asia Extreme films and whether it is from the brilliant Battle Royale to the weird and wonderful Itchi the Killer, they have always set the bar in horror cinema. However, for me, there is one film that stands out above the rest; A Tale Of Two Sisters.

This 2003 South Korean based on Korean Folklore follows Su-mi and Su-yeon, sisters who come back home after a spell in a mental institute following the death of their mother. Greeted warmly by their father and taken home, the girls soon discover that home may not be how they remember and strange things around the house begin to happen. Doors coming alive, footsteps on the stairs and strange apparitions soon appear. Something is happening, but what? Could the girls be slowly becoming unstable mentally? Is the step mother playing cruel tricks? Or is there a supernatural presence in the house? The truth is more sinister than expected.

First of all, A Tale Of Two Sisters is visually astounding. The stylish shots of the views around the tiny house , the lake, the decorated home and flash back scenes create a breathtaking set for the Instead of opting for cheesy fun thrills, director Kim-Ji Woon artfully brings beauty that many other films of this nature can only dream of. And with that beauty, the contrast of the terrifying events makes it even more scary as you are lulled peacefully into a false sense of security.

The thrills work too; from downright jumpiness to creepy characters that plague the house. Your heart wont stop raising throughout as you try to fathom the truth as it leads up to a finale that, though it has been used many times before, you will be pleasantly surprised. And whilst the explanation works, there are some unexplained moments that will plague and haunt you for a very long time.

The acting is brilliant too from such young stars Im Soo Jung and Moon Geun Young who convey a strong yet damaged relationship between two loving sisters and as they battle against the evil around them, the stars bring a depth and maturity that there adult counterparts seem to drift into the background despite being excellent themselves.

As I have said before, no film is without its fault but honestly, it is hard to find one in A Tale Of Two Sisters.  The father is under-used despite the anguish he must have and his character is barely explored to all its might. Though, as mentioned, the ending has been used countless times before, it still works wonderfully and the way it is revealed is simply genius. I suppose as well, if you aren't a fan of them,  the subtitling may be a problem and ruin this atmospheric film.

Overall, A Tale Of Two Sister's is a stand out film and a sensational independent film. The twists and turns create shocks and scares that will be the perfect for that horror movie night in. Just make sure you get this film and you don't get The Uninvited (the shocking American remake of the film.) Otherwise, I will eat you. And you just don't want that.

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Film News: Is It A Bird?

First of we have Batman a gritty darker telling of the superhero as he rises to fame (or infamy.) Secondly, the new Spider-Man with Andrew Garfield is set to hit our screens with more deeper tale. And then we have Captain America released in the UK next week (I will blog blog blog about that,) Iron Man 3 in the works, THE AVENGERS!!! and so much more that I think I just came down with a case of nerd.. Now, are we missing someone? How about the most famous superhero of all time. An All American Crime Fighting Machine!!!!! 

Ah yes Superman, (this blog had a point) and news is revealed this week that another Superman movie is in the works. However, its release date has been pushed pack to 2013!? Hmm, is this due to the epic amount of blockbusters coming out 2012? Maybe. 

The film "Man Of Steel" is set to star Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Diane Lane and Kevin Costner to name but a few. Directed by Zack Snyder and Produced by Christopher Nolan, this though delayed may be something we are all looking forward. Are you excited?

Hmmm, maybe.

I just can't help feeling that Superman is overrated, overdone and maybe, well, over.

We'll see. Without much to ride on we will hold out bated breathes. 

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Film News: More Emma Stone! (Crazy Stupid Love)

Ok so this entry isn't entirely based upon Emma Stone but instead the release of trailers for romantic comedy Crazy Stupid Love in the UK. The film is based around Hal, a husband who thinks he has it all until his wife announces she wants a divorce. With the whole world beginning to crash around him, Hal must find his way in the world as a single man with the little help of a professional bachelor Jacob.

The film boasts an impressive cast with the ever genius that is Steve Carrell, Julianne Moore and Ryan Gosling.

I'll admit, the trailer looks decent with the exception of the entirely misplaced Muse song half way through and the fact that no girl on this sweet green earth is going to believe Gosling as a chauvinistic pig without screaming "Why Noah? Why?" I have to say that it may be impressive. Instead of just single versus single, there is the element of old love, true love and soul mates.

With all these actresses from the indie comedies coming into our more mainstream movies (Mary Elizabeth Winstead and of course, Ellen Page) it looks like we are in for a treat. Certainly in this trailer, Emma Stone is the definite highlight. Of course, I'm not letting my love for her make me biased or anything.

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Musical Movie Moments

There is no denying that music is a pivotal ingredient to any film. With the slightest key change or an up-roaring crescendo, your emotions can change instantly. Keeping that in mind, in aregular segment, I want to explore the musical moments within a film. I'll try my hardest to keep away from musicals and aim for moments where the main characters aren't bursting into songs. What I wont promise is no Disney songs, I'm sorry but you have to admit, sometimes Disney rules.

For this week, I thought I'd focus on some of my personal favourites (though I do have more) that you wouldn't expect and will progress to more well known moments (so don't protest too much.)

The Blower's Daughter by Damien Rice - Closer.

This song is so hauntingly beautiful that you can feel goosebumps and tears swell up at the first note.. A heartbreaking song about lost and broken love it is the most apt song to play throughout Closer. If you haven't seen Closer, I urge you to do; a film that so neatly weaves betrayal and anguish that this shattered vocal fits perfectly. In the final scenes with Alice and Dan, the song builds to the point where you can nearly feel the hurt. Stunning.

My Little Box by Gabriel Mann - Ghost Ship

Yes, yes I will put my hands up and admit it. I love rubbish horror/ghost stories and this one is particularly my favourite. While I believe it to be seriously underrated, many of you will be scoffing (scoffing I say!) at this choice. Ghost Ship is one of those films that I will still watch repeatedly and this songs appears in the revealing secrets of the movie. It is heavy and ripe with creepiness as we watch the tale unravel to a twist that even M. Night Shyamalan would be having wet dreams over. The whisper mutters lyrics eerily similar to the situation on screen and the shift from crawling drums and synths to heavy beats makes it click. 

A little fun fact you probably don't want to know about me; this song is what made me start writing. 

So Close by John McLaughlin - Enchanted.

I've cheated a little bit here. While the whole song is performed by said artist, one of the main characters (Robert) does sing it softly to Giselle. And he does it aptly because if you love someone you sing them songs with lyrics meant just for you! The scene in which this song appears makes you swoon and as you see the dawning realization as Giselle falls so rapidly in love and sadness as moments later it is taken away from her, the timing of the song nearly has you in tears. It's truly enchanting (see what I did there?)

Time After Time by Cyndi Lauper - Romy and Michelles High School Reunion. 

Have you ever watched this film? No? You need it in your life, what I feel to be a far underrated comedy has one of my favourite funny moments in it of all time and it is synchronised perfectly to this song. After a horrendous reunion, the falling out of best friends and an inexplicable dream sequence, this sweet dance between Romy, Michelle and Sandy's threeway on the dance floor is a touching scene that gets as many laughs as it does hearts a-warming.


God Bless The Child by Billie Holiday - Schindler's List. 

A film that is deals with a tragedy as big as the Holocaust is one that must tread carefully with music. While most of the film is classical or music of the era and settings, this song sweeps in so discreetly you wont notice it much but feel it's presence. The is a harrowing essence to Holiday's vocal that chime in this still moment as Schindler watches over the Krakow Ghetto's after one act of violence yet before another. Here, the song crawls down your back as you know, the alluded peacefulness is just for the minute. It is truly outstanding as it is chilling.

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Films To Go See This Week.

Since the release of Harry Potter dominating the silver screen last week, lets have a look at films that are coming out this week that might persuade you to leave your houses, grab some friends and head on down to your favourite cinema.

Cars 2 

Disney's Cars 2 is the amazing new sequel to Cars, a journey of race car Lightening McQueen (Owen Wilson) who find theres more to life than fame with his best friend Mater (Larry the Cable Guy.) Cars 2 sees a the two travel across the globe in a fantastic race to countries such as England, Italy and Japan to find the Worlds Fastest Car. Along the ride, whilst battling ego centric Francesco, Mater is confused for an American spy and British Intellegence Fin McMissle (Micheal McCain) and Holly Shiftwell enroll him to help there mission.

Sure to be better than the previous film, Cars 2 is a fun family action packed film for all ages.

Horrible Bosses

Ever worked underneath a slave driver? How about a manager who constantly uses for sex? Then Horrible Bosses is for you. The film shows three friends, Nick, Kenny and Kurt all conspire to dispose of their bosses who are not making there life miserable but are standing away of their careers and happiness.

This comedy stars big names such as Jason Bateman, Keven Spacey and Jennifer Aniston that is sure to be hilarious and intriguing.

Beginners 

Beginners staring Christopher Plummer and Ewan McGregor is The film is based on the true life coming out of the director Mike Mill's father, five years before his death. It tells the tale of Oliver, a young man who is rocked by the revelations of his father Hal who not only has terminal cancer but has a secret male lover.

An American Comedy Drama that not only will provide laughs but tug at your heartstrings.

Other films include The Violent Kind and Singham

Whatever film you go see this week, I hope it is enjoyable and let me know what you thought.

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Film News: Spider Man Trailer

Surely by now you are getting a glimpse about how much I love my comics and superheroes. On that note, there is a battle of Marvel and DC, a war between gritty reboots and one one can rise above the other become the ultimate film franchise. The war between Batman and Spider-man (My money? Goddamn Batman.)

Since the release of The Dark Knight Rises trailer (despite the fact they haven't finished filming yet), The Amazing Spider-Man releases it's own theatrical trailer.

...........Erm is it too late to change my bet?

The new gritty film seems, from this eye opening trailer, to take the previous films, squash them into tiny little pieces, mix them with darkness and back story and then add them to a protein shake so they can bulk up and kick ass.

With a stellar cast of Andrew Garfield as Spider-Man, Emma Stone as Gwen Stacey and  Rhys Ifans as The Lizard (there was a small glimpse,) I think we can all sleep soundly and forget that Spider-Man 3 ever existed.

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Film News: Ruining Childhoods

Whats worse than Hollywood's intent on ruin classic films in poorly planned remakes? Taking once loved childhood cartoons and making them films. Children's channel, Nickelodean, had recently done a live action movie of The Fairly Odd Parents (The Fairly Odd Movie: Grow Up! Timmy Turner) that has already been aired in America and stars Drake & Josh's Drake Bell. Even with original voice of Cosmo and Wanda (Darran Norris and Susan Blankslee,) there is nothing that could make me not hit my head against the wall about this horrendous re-boot.

Up in the Hollywood rumor mill, there is a plan to create a movie from the popular cartoon Captain Planet. Cartoon Network have contacted producer Don Murphy (Transformers) to translate the blue skinned hero and his Planeteers to the silver screen. Whether this is a feeble attempt to sell a bucket loads of merchandise of Captain Planets message of saving the environment is much needed in this day and age it is unknown.

What I do know, is that my inner child is screaming "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO"

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Film News: I'm A Shoddily Planned Remake,

Now as you may know already, I am completely against remakes of classic films. It is just proof that Hollywood is running out of ideas (or not looking in the right places for them,) and the only way they can bring the big bucks in is to create a "new" version of a film we all know and love to bring it to a younger audience. The re-make is always awful and strips away anything that we loved about the original. Its a new Hollywood trait that needs to be stopped.

The new classic that Hollywood is planning to ruin is Spartacus! The classic bloody, gory rise of the powerful Spartacus in said film that boasts one of the most iconic scenes of all time. (In case you weren't sure, the incredible moment where Kirk Douglas goes to give himself up and then bam! everyone gets up with him shouting "I'm Spartacus.")

300 co writer Micheal Gordon has pitched the idea to create a fresh take on the film and a closer look at the man's historical background. However, there will be a main focus of his battle against the Roman Army...

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Film News: The Thing 2011

This week a trailer for The Thing prequel/remake was released starring Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Romona Flowers from Scott Pilgrim) and Jon Edgerton. The plot follows the similar eery one as the first 1982 classic. In an Antarctic research plant, an alien ship is discovered filmed with all sorts of creepy crawly nasty's to royally mess up your day (and then imitate you after). Here's the trailer.

Now here is my problem with Hollywood bosses remaking classics such as The Thing; the reason they are classics is because people will still watch even with the shoddy film shots and special effects (in comparison with our new technicological advances.) That's why they are called "classics" and not "that film we watched once a while back but the quality was poor, I wish someone remade it.)

The original The Thing's monsters were puppets and whilst I have no doubt that CGI could cause a heathen of  horrendous creatures on screen, there was kind of a beauty in the "OH MY GOD WHAT THE HELL IS THAT.... ITS EYES ARE BURNING THROUGH MY SCREEN AH THE HORROR THE HORROR," Aliens. (Warning: picture coming up)

See,

Sweet dreams guys.

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Film and TV News: Ron Howard Denied!

Oh dear, it all seems to have gone belly up for Ron Howard, the director of films such as The Da Vinci Code and A Beautiful Mind. The big dogs at Universal have denied his plan to film The Dark Tower, a book trilogy by Stephen King that consists of a hefty 7 Books, citing that they were only willingly to film one film to "test waters." Unfortunately, one film was not enough for Howard and his team (producer Brian Gazer and writer Akiva Goldsman,) the plan was to film a series of film and a TV series that linked them all together.

Wow, I can kinda see why bosses chose to deny the jigsaw puzzle that was Howard's plan.

Maybe scale it down next time.

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Film News: The Dark Knight Rises Trailer

So it's finally here without the grainy shady filming of a Harry Potter fan catching a sneak glimpse. Studios have finally released the trailer for The Dark Knight without it being completely filmed yet (filming is still taking place at Greenwich, UK)

There is not a lot to mention about this as I am far too giddy to write; Batman is on the run for the events that took place in The Dark Knight and Bruce must battle inner demons as a new villain rises against him.

Just check out the trailer.

It. is. awesome.

See, awesome.

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Show Vs Film: The Phantom Of The Opera

In 1986, a young Andrew Lloyd Webber created a phenomenal musical; The Phantom Of The Opera. The story centres on Christine, a budding young Opera star who lures the admiration of childhood sweetheart  Raoul and a mysterious figure who haunts the Opera house. Battling between the innocence of good and the passion of evil, Christine must decide her fate and whom she gives her heart to. The Phantom of The Opera is the longest running Broadway musical and the second longest running West End Musical (behind Les Miserable.)

In 2004 Webber and Joel Schumacher translated the show from the stage to the big screen and cast Emmy Rossum as Christine, Gerald Butler as Phantom and Patrick Wilson as Raoul. Starring other big names such as Miranda Richardson and Simon Callow (AN: If you don't know who either of them are, shame on you,) and with a few tweaks here and there set about bringing Phantom to a younger audience. Or those who previously couldn't afford tickets.

After growing up listening to my Nan's tapes of the tape and having seen the film a billion times over, I recently treated myself and a friend to watching the show.

But a lot of questions come to mind; does film have advantage over the stage? Does the original show hold the cards?

There's the only one way to find out...

FIGHT....

Well, no, but a compare and contrast post will do (so technically a fight.)

Sets

This is a difficult one to start with each have their own playground to recreate the famous Paris Opera House that has a vast number of crevices rooms and an underground lake. In the film, set designers managed successfully to create a scale model and many of the poetic rooms that are held within the grand building. But, a big but, a lot of the scenery and  views were in putted with a lot of CGI. The show however, manages to recreate the inner labyrinth of the Opera house an a small smaller stage, with a stunning rooftop seen in "All I Ask Of You" a clearly painstakingly painted backdrop of Paris and it is beautiful.

But as previously stated, the stage is small and this have limitations. The fact the designers in the film had created a scale model of the Opera house is a lot of hard work and and despite CGI advantage, deserves the accolade.

The Special Effects 

"The Phantom is a genius; her is a composer, an architect, a magician, a genius." As Madame Giry states in the film, The Phantom knows tricks and how to play them to his bidding. In the film, the Phantom can call upon candles and gold men to his will, appear magically in mirrors without, scare Raoul with mirrors and disappear (....down a trap door that we can see.) In the show, The Phantom does all this and then some; he appears out of thin air more than once, creates fire bolts out of nowhere, causes a chandelier trick and disappears without anyone seeing a trap door.

The winner of this round has to be the show because if you aren't working on the show or a magician, you'll be left spell-bound by staging of the Phantoms shows...

Costumes

A long with the brilliant sets and special effects, the Victorian age costumes are wonderful in both the show and the film. From the Rome-esque red and green of the Hannibal musical to the dark deep passion of Don Juan Triumphant, the costumes follow the same vein and don't tread to far from each other. However, there are many differences and fantastic exceptions. In the show, the Phantoms "Masquerade" attire is full on scary and creepy and in the film, Christine's "Think of Me" is simply delightful.

In this arena, though, I think the film trumps by making Christine's costume a mixture of innocence and passion without making her a caricature.

Singing and Acting.

With the singing and acting, I'm going straight into this one, there is no way a film that can digitally enhance and repeatedly record a scene or song if someone makes a mistake can top a show that is live, mistakes and all. Rossum and Wilson do have fantastic vocals especially in "All I Ask Of You," and even Butler has moments where his voice can sound o.k. (instead of sounding like someone you foolishly cheered at karaoke and now auditioning for X Factor.)  But in the show that I went to see, professional theatre greats such as Sofia Escobar and John Owen-Jones (Christine and the Phantom) belt out their songs with rare wavering and causing goosebumps and a standing ovations. The acting in both films is on top form as well despite both having accents that go from American, French, English, Italian and god knows  in just one character (and many of them.)

Of course, the film does have moments of singing above the show; in songs that mean characters have to sing different parts, in the show it can become cluttered but sound engineers in the film can pick out important lines and layer them in so they don't drown. But its the show that races past the film for sheer brilliance.

Overall.... 

The visuals and designs are definitely a high point in the film but since its released has been subject to many negative reviews and feedback due to the direction and poor casting choices (*cough*Butler*cough*.) There is heart and passion in both but the show takes the prize. The film is a great start if you want to get into the show but don't have the cash to fork out for seats (despite, special discounts you can get for top seats.) The show, however, strikes chords in all of us. The superior singing and incredible special effects means the show wins completely.

A haunting spectacle for all of us to see..

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TV and Film News: Glee

For those of us who didn't see Glee in their concert tours (or well, couldn't afford to shell out the ridiculous concert prices) are spared as the first trailer for the Glee 3D Concert are released. Check it out.

In the tradition of concert films such as Justin Beiber's Never Say Never (wow, never thought I'd mention that on this site) and JLS' Eyes Wide Shut (Or that,) Glee 3D has all of our favourite stars of the musical hit performing are favourite songs from Slave 4 U to the classic Don't Stop Believing.

And although live shows are a testament of singers, surely instead of said 3D showing of the concert perhaps an actual Glee film would work best for fans; one where its after high school and their dreams of singing on a Broadway show are crushed by the 1000th meal they've asked to super-size.

In other Glee news, stars Lea Michelle, Corey Monteith and Chris Colfer are going to be written out of the show after the final 3rd series. This is said to be due to the "realism" the show offers and it would be "unrealistic" to keep them in high-school as they have to graduate some time. So will a 4th series happen without our favourite stars? Will they cast new budding Gleeks?

Due to rating drops and an anti-climatic story-line, one is not hopeful that a 4th will happen.

Prove me wrong, Glee.

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Film News: Judge Dredd Pic.

New pic of Judge Dredd has been released with Karl Urban taking the role. Now, the previous hilarious attempt at making this film starring Sylvester Stallone means this film has to be anything but bad and judging by this new picture, the film makers Liongate are attempting a gritty make of the classic comic. Huzzah!



The plot of Judge Dredd (a comic set in 2000 AD) is a civilization run by Judges who patrol the streets weeding out crime as it runs rampant along the streets. In order to rid the streets of this crime plague, Judges are allowed to execute at will. However, in one of the most vilest blocks, Dredd and his assisstant Anderson get trapped in a seige and all bloody hell takes place.

The exciting venture is also set to star Olivia Thirlby and Lena Headly.

The film is planned on an early next year released.

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Film News: The Brothers Grimm: Snow White

A live action version of The Brothers Grim classic tale Snow White (no, not the Disney Cartoon version) is being made. The film is set to star Julia Roberts as the evil Queen who marries Snow's Dad (played by Sean Bean.) We all know the story but the Queen is angry more with Snow (Lily Collins) who is vying (unknowingly) for the position of The Fairest One of All and the Queen orders the murder of  Snow. Instead, Snow is spared by seven dwarfs and fights back for her country and Prince..

Of course this film is going to be a lot darker than Disney's famous hit and actors also on board are Nathan Lane and Sean Bean.

I'm half expecting a Tim Burton esque ride...

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Something Borrowed, Something New: A "Bridesmaids" Review

Films specifically aimed at women don't fair well against our femininity. Clearly, according to many writers, our main objective is to find love with an ever handsome and ever romantic man, sigh. Even in movies that are solely written, starring and directed by Women (A.K.A The Women,) each main character is a pulled by a puppet master, who is a man. Bridesmaids is a film that is, according to most, a film to change all that with an apparent gross out hilarious chick flick film.

Annie (Kristen Wiig)  is a 30 something woman who has hit desperate times; she is caught between one night stands with her "lover," she is living with atrocious flatmates, her Bakery went out of business and she is working miserably in a jeweler's spurning off  any couple who comes to buy from her. Her only light is that she has her best friend, Lillian (the fantastic Maya Rudolph) whom they've known since school. However, Lillian is getting married and Annie, as maid of honor, has a lot of contemplate as well as wrangle a mismatch bunch of Bridesmaids especially Helen (Rose Byrne) who is vying not just for maid of honor but the best friend spot. In between meeting cute Irish Police Officer (Chris O'Dowd) and her rapidly disappearing self esteem, Annie must find her place and claw back her life.

Bridesmaids is, on the whole, a great film. Instead of Annie desperately hoping for a man, it is friendship that is craved for here and as Annie feels that she is losing grip on her and Lillian's relationship, the intense rivalry between new gal Helen is throttled straight into ploys and plots. With a fantastic cast including brilliant support from Melinda McCarthy (Sookie from Gilmore Girls) and Mad Men's John Hamm, the emotional fragility of Wiig's Annie and the stellar characters going along for her ride give this move sentiment and heart.

And it is Wiig who is truly the star of the movie having written the screenplay. There is wit and the jokes are very funny whether it is sly insults passed politely between sparring Helen or Annie, married life breakdowns with Rita and Becca, or the hilarious incident at a Wedding dress boutique (one of the more gross out scenes), there are many laughs to be had from Bridesmaids. But also there is a realistic tone, the girls aren't slugging it out in elaborate cat fights but trying secretly to undercut the over woman. The film is wonderfully written with charm and realism that we girls have all felt when losing a friend.

However, the film builds up with too many scenario's between Annie, Helen and Lillian that the ending and conclusion end quickly or doesn't seem to really end. In fact, apart from a few obvious cliche happy chick flick ending, the films ends quite depressingly. Annie still hasn't got a job, she is still living with unwanted housemates, she still had a failing business and now her best friend is married and off to live miles away in Chicago.  Also some plots go way under the radar as with the other bit Bridesmaids such as the relationship between the newly met Rita and Becca and Meghan (McCarthy)'s romance. There are many question that aren't answered.

The film is hefty at two longs and the scenes that are funny can drag on to the point where they run on too long and become a bit tedious. There is a lot that can be cut from this film; losing most of the tiresome content at still keeping it breathing with plot and fresh originality.

A lot of people have complained about Bridesmaids for it's gross out comedy and for the most part, they needn't worry - there isn't a lot of it and women have those moments too! Other than that Bridesmaids should be hailed and celebrated. For once, Annie isn't all about the man but about how you can unintentionally ruin someones biggest moments or let a friendship slip through your fingers. And that is the beautiful icing on the cake.

3.5/5

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