RESULTS: OSCARS 2011 - THE WINNERS

BEST PICTURE - WINNER:            

THE KINGS SPEECH

BEST ACTOR - WINNER:

COLIN FIRTH - KINGS SPEECH

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR - WINNER:

CHRISTIAN BALE -  THE FIGHTER

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS - WINNER:

MELISSA LEO - THE FIGHTER

BEST ACTRESS - WINNER:

NATALIE PORTMAN - BLACK SWAN

BEST DIRECTOR - WINNER:

TOM HOOPER  - KINGS SPEECH

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY - WINNER:

INCEPTION - WALL PFISTER

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY - WINNER:

DAVID SEIDLER - THE KINGS SPEECH

BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY - WINNER:

AARON SORKIN - THE SOCIAL NETWORK

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM - WINNER:

TOY STORY 3

BEST SHORT FILM (ANIMATED) - WINNER:

THE LOST THING BY SHAUN TAN & ANDREW RAHERMANN

BEST ORIGINAL SONG - WINNER:

"WE BELONG TOGETHER" FROM TOY STORY 3

MUSIC & LYRIC BY RANDY NEWMAN

BEST FILM EDITING - WINNER:

THE SOCIAL NETWORK

ANGUS WALL & KIRK BAXTER

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS - WINNER:

INCEPTION

PAUL FRANKLIN , CHRIS CORBOUND, ANDREW LOCKLEY & PETER BEBB

BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE - WINNER:

INSIDE JOB

BEST SHORT FILM  (LIVE ACTION) - WINNER:

GOD OF LOVE BY LUKE MATHENY

BEST DOCUMENTARY (SHORT SUBJECT) - WINNER

STRANGERS NO MORE

BEST COSTUME DESIGN  - WINNER:

ALICE IN WONDERLAND BY COLLEEN ATWOOD

BEST MAKEUP - WINNER:

THE WOLFMAN BY RICK BAKER & DAVE ELSEY

BEST SOUND EDITING - WINNER:

INCEPTION BY RICHARD KING

BEST SOUND MIXING - WINNER:

INCEPTION BY LORA HIRSCBERG, GARY A. RIZZO & ED NOVICK

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE - WINNER:

THE SOCIAL NETWORK BY TRENT REZNOR & ATTICUS ROSS

BEST ART DIRECTION - WINNER:

ALICE IN WONDERLAND PRODUCTION DESIGN: ROBERT STROMBERG, SET DECORATION: KAREN O HARA

BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM - WINNER:

IN A BETTER WORLD - DENMARK

MOVIE REVIEW: THE RITE (15)

"I'VE SEEN SCARIER FILMS"

The Rite is a supernatural horror film Directed by Mikael Hafstrom (same guy that brought us 1408, 2007). This film is about an american seminary student who travels to Rome to take an exorcism course. Whilst there he goes in search to find his true calling. Its starring Anthony Hopkins, Colin Donoghue, Marta Gastini, Maria Grazia Cucinotta, Alice Braga, Ciara Hinds, Toby Jones & Chris Marquette.

This movie is based on a book by Matt Baglio called The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcism. 

SLIDER'S REVIEW:

The promises of the trailer did not dissapoint me its just not as raw as i thought it would be. it confused me early on because it starts off as this serious film about beliefs, exorcism, & the devil but then there were a scene that was clearly a Laugh Out Loud moment in the middle of an Exorcism 
(what a way to add to the suspense... not). 

This is meant to be a Horror movie (its even classed as that) but then theres not much of that going on, i found it to be more a Thriller (would have been better the other way round). I think the Writer/Director concentrated mainly on telling a good story and less on actually trying to scare its audience. For this film to get the recognition it deserves it would have to be more gritty and more suspenseful. Fans of this type of movie will enjoy it but others might switch off before it has a chance to engage. This film doesn't take it self too serious (but maybe it should have). I was not surprised that the last 30 minutes was when the storyline really got going but did like how it all turned out.

On a better note i thought The Cinematography was displayed beautifully. The camera made general things more interesting than they actually were. The shots of Rome & the Vatican also look great on screen.

After all these years Anthony Hopkins at his age (73) is still delivering great performances on the big screen as he does in this role as Father Lucas. He carries this film from the moment he's on screen to the end. The presence he gives on screen is very interesting to watch. Colin Donoghue's plays his Michael Kovak character well. He brings his own feel but does not connect as much as he should have. if only he didn't have a heavyweight like Hopkins alongside he would have shone more as his character developed. Strong cast.

#Overall: its a Decent film about Exorcism.

MY STAR RATINGS OUT OF 5:  2.5

ONE FAVORITE MOMENT IN THE FILM:

When Father Lucas (Hopkins) says: 

"Choosing not to believe in the devil wont protect you from him"

(if you loved another moment in the film, please feel free to tell us in the comments)

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MOVIE REVIEW: BIG MOMMA'S: LIKE FATHER LIKE SON (PG)

"CHEESE FEST"

Big Momma’s House 3: Like Father Like Son is a crime comedy film Directed by John Whitesell. (Same guy that brought us Big Momma House 2, 2006). This film is about an FBI agent Malcolm Turner and his stepson who go undercover at an all-girls performing arts school after Trent witnesses a murder. Its Starring Martin Lawrence, Brandon T Jackson, Jessica Lucas, Tony Curran & Faizon Love.

SLIDER’S REVIEW:

Watching this film I was thinking “This is Not Vintage Big Momma”. The film as a whole is mediocre, everything seems to have been done for the sake of it. Takeaway Big Momma add more girly scenes and they would have a chick flick (I don’t think that’s what they were going for). The jokes are not very funny and the baddies are not very good actors. It lacked entertainment and seemed played out. I’ve seen storylines like this countless amount of times. 

The best thing about this film is the attraction from Faizon to Big Momma. Half of the film doesn’t even feel like  what it’s meant to be… actually thinking back to it now all I can remember is a bunch of girls prancing around a performing arts school. I think they lost their more favoured target audience aswell because Big Momma 1 and 2 was more of a family movie whereas this 3rd one aims more at the teens. As for the production team I think they need to “up their game” if they are going be shooting more $35Million dollar projects. #Awful

Martin Lawrence does do his part as Malcolm Turner/Big Momma. He’s always been a good actor but haven’t said that he does try to bring some of his Bad Boys film antics to his movie which I don’t think quite worked (maybe he’s just getting old). The first time I ever came across Brandon T. Jackson was in Lottery Ticket (bow wow & ice cube film) I like his style of acting (can’t believe he’s 26 in real life). He plays Turner’s son Trent/Charmaine. He’s the kind of actor that looks naturally funny (all you have to do is hear him speak). I think the director should have used him more for the gags. The star of this show would have to be Kurtis Kool (Love) his character is the goofy janitor who like big women so his lust for Big Momma was funny to watch. Hayley (Lucas) is Trent’s love interest. I remember her from the TV show Melrose Place. I’m happy to see her on the big screen, I think she is a pretty good actress and I hope to see her more in movies to come.

#Overall: Big Momma 3 is an OK film to watch. - Nothing Special.

FACT: Jascha Washington was the original step son in Big Momma House 2 but turned down the role of Trent Pierce for this film. #WonderWhy?

MY STAR RATINGS OUT OF 5:  2

ONE FAVOURITE MOMENT IN THE FILM:

When the Faizon Love (Cool) says “My Name Is Curtis Cool & I Just Fried This Fool” #Classic

(if you loved another moment in the film, please feel free to tell us in the comments)

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MOVIE REVIEW: TRUE GRIT (15)

"BREAKOUT PERFORMANCES"

True Grit is a Western Film written and directed by The Cohen Brothers. (Same guys that brought us No Country for Old Men, 2007) This film is a remake of Charles Portis’s novel that was made into a film in 1969. It’s about a tough U.S Marshall helping a stubborn young girl track down her father’s murderer to bring him to justice. It’s starring Hailee Steinfeld, Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Josh Brolin & Barry Pepper.

SLIDER’S REVIEW:

When I heard the amount of awards this film was up for I was excited to watch it and see what the hype was all about. First I saw the trailer then the film and thought it was just a way of telling a story very well in a simple fashion, a way that the audience would be able to follow the plot as it went along. I found it entertaining to watch this mild paced story. The Cohen brothers made sure the film galloped on with the use of guns, horses, costumes, themed buildings interiors, funny swear words and strong accents. The film drives along in low gears then later picks up speed. It doesn’t have the full intensity that No Country for Old Men had but the production makes up for that as a whole. It’s the screenplay & cinematography that was enjoyable to watch.

The best thing about this film is the acting performances on show. First off I’m going to congratulate Hailee Steinfeld for her role as Mattie Ross. She pulls off such an outstanding performance that I hope she gets all the awards she’s nominated. She truly deserves it.  I liked this fresh faced energy she gave on screen. She was this young girl who was straight talking, focused and determined to do things her way (Her tone of voice did help). Watching her I forgot she was only 14 because she comes across much older. True Grit works because of her, she really stood out. Jeff Bridges plays the U.S Marshall Rueben J ‘Rooster’ Cogburn. We have all seen him in Iron Man & Crazy Heart so we all know what a brilliant actor he is. He takes his character and he gave it all it needed. As a supporting actor Matt Damon did surprise me because he surpassed my expectations as La Beouf. Every western film nowadays has to have Josh Brolin making an appearance. He’s just got the attributes for it. It must be easy for him now. From the work he put in on No Country for Old Men I wasn’t surprised to see him casted. He’s a Great actor.

#FACT: True Grit was nominated for 10 Academy Awards & 8 Bafta’s... Won 1 Bafta

MY STAR RATINGS OUT OF 5:  3.9

ONE FAVOURITE MOMENT IN THE FILM:

When Mattie (Steinfeld) manages to cross the river on her horse & LaBeouf (Damon) lets her know what he thought of it.

(if you loved another moment in the film, please feel free to tell us in the comments)

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MOVIE REVIEW: NEVER LET ME GO (12A)

"BEAUTIFUL"

SLIDER’S REVIEW:

Never Let Me Go is a British film that’s based on a Kazou Ishiguro’s Novel. Directed by Roman Romanek (same guy that brought us One Hour Photo, 2002) its starring Carey Mulligan, Keira Knightley, Andrew Garfield, Sally Hawkins, Charlotte Rampling, Nathalie Richard, Domhnall Gleeson & Andrea Riseborough.

Here’s another movie the British can be proud of. It’s basically about Love, Jealousy, Hope & The acceptance of Death. The drama on screen comes with a lot of sad & heart-breaking feelings. Even I didn’t think it was possible to put so much different types of emotion in one film.  It doesn’t let the audience into too much of the story leaving me in the dark and making me think.  The Screenplay and Cinematography is great to watch. Haven’t said that I found it hard to decide if I loved it or hated it. (Marmite moment). But after understanding the concept of the film I did like it because of the deep and meaningful concept.  It captures life from a different perspective. if the novel is as moving as this film then its a Must Watch. Films like this are for the majority but not everyone.

The performance of the actors and actress was simply amazing. I really liked Cathy’s (Mulligan) character. She plays a person that a lot of women can relate to when love is the topic. She is an amazing actress and really stood out. Ruth (Knightley) & Tommy (Garfield) both do a brilliant job in their roles. Their emotions look very genuine. The movie is very solemn and I know that’s exactly what they were going for.

This came out around Valentines but don’t be fooled into thinking you can take a girl to see this film for the 14^th of Feb.. It’s not exactly the “Seal The Deal” type of film. #JustSaying

MY STAR RATINGS OUT OF 5:  3.5

ONE FAVOURITE MOMENT IN THE FILM:

When Tommy (Garfield) get out the car after his disappointed news.

(if you loved another moment in the film, please feel free to tell us in the comments)

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MOVIE REVIEW: GNOMEO & JULIET (2D) (3D) (U)

"GNOME SIZED FAMILY FUN"

SLIDER'S REVIEW:

I'm sure we have all read or heard of William Shakespeare's play "Romeo & Juliet" right?. Well here is the computed animated version called Gnomeo & Juliet. This heartwarming adaptation is Directed by Kelly Asbury (same woman that brought us Shrek 2). This feature two garden gnomes who fall in forbidden love. The Couple are caught in the middle of a long feud between the Blue & Red Hatted Gnomes. With that burden the pair must find their happiness and avoid tragedy. Its stars James McAvoy, Emily Blunt, Michael Caine, Jason Statham, Maggie Smith, Patrick Stewart, Ashley Jensen, Matt Lucas, Stephen Merchant, Ozzy Osbourne & Jim Cummings. (line up for animated films always look a spectacle.)

Before i dissect this film i just want to add that i like the "Gnomeo" name... its clever wordplay. 

This Shakespeare inspired film was a treat to watch. From the characters to the storyline everything seemed to fall in place. It's a story that had a destination but it wasn't about the end it was all to do with the journey. The writers take their own spin on the story and makes it their own without spoiling the masterpiece. Its got comedy that i'm sure the little kids will love and will want to see again. its silly, its romantic and its jokes that has been done before in other movies but hey if it made me laugh it will do the same for you (hopefully). its the little things that make the movie come together. 

Hearing familiar voices of Caine, McAvoy, Blunt & Osbourne does bring the little creatures to life on screen. The 3D effect shows very well in this animation. The musical contribution from Elton John was also brilliant. You'll never look at Gnomes as these boring static creatures on the law ever again. Well done to the Starz Animation for producing this one.

It's simply 84 Minutes of Delightful Fun.

MY STAR RATINGS OUT OF 5:  4.5

 

ONE FAVORITE MOMENT IN THE FILM:

Don't have a specific moment but i really liked all the characters

(if you loved another moment in the film, please feel free to tell us in the comments) 

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MOVIE REVIEW: SANCTUM (3D) (15)

“POINTLESS”

SLIDER’S REVIEW:

Sanctum (3D) is an Action Adventure Drama Directed by Alister Grierson (From the Production team of Avatar, 2009) This movie is about an underwater cave diving team who experience life threatening scenarios when they go on a expedition to the unexplored and least accessible cave In the world. It’s starring Richard Roxburgh, Ioan Gruffudd, Rhys Wakefield & Alice Parkinson. James Cameron also tags along as the Executive Producer.

First off, my question is... What is James Cameron doing producing a film like this? From Avatar to Sanctum (just doesn't make sense) I couldn’t see the point of making this film. There is no message to take away apart from seeing what lengths a person will go when face to face with danger. Personally I think people who go and discover new caves in the world should be for the Discovery Channel and not the cinema in 3D. With a budget of $30 Million is this all they could come up with? Yes It’s a true story but why bother making it into a film. It’s so boring.

I thought a cave movie without monsters would be better but this wasn’t. Movies like this need the thrill of the chase and a great cast, sadly it had neither. The cave exploring team does look for a way out but there’s no real sense of urgency, there was too much stopping and starting. The script and dialogue is just awful. Best thing about the film was the Cinematography the shots of the ocean and deep caves looked amazing. I’m not sure if the 3D was needed but hey it’s there. Another film with a cliché ending.

The cast team for Sanctum had a Hit & Miss when they choose who to feature in this film. The leader of the pack Frank (Roxburgh) was a good enough frontman. He acted out his role well. He was believable because of his presence, expressions and voice. However Josh (Wakefield) who plays Franks son looked out of place. (I don’t think I have ever seen him in a film before) I think they should have given his role to someone else who had Frank’s features. Even I could tell he was a rookie actor. Then there’s Carl (Gruffudd) He plays one of the explorers who looks harmless but then turns into someone else when he is pushed to the limit. In the movie he himself calls his actions “a moment of madness.” I liked his character because he was the only highlights of the film. He’s the one that breaks the rules whilst everyone follows the leader. He does a great job in his role.  (Well done Mister Fantastic)

This is film that will be forgotten as soon as it leaves the cinema.

MY STAR RATINGS OUT OF 5:  2

ONE FAVOURITE MOMENT IN THE FILM:

Carl’s plead scene when he comes back after leaving Frank & Josh.

(If you loved another moment in the film, please feel free to tell us in the comments)

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MOVIE REVIEW: THE MECHANIC (15)

‘NOT BETTER THAN STATHAM'S

 TRANSPORTER FILMS’

SLIDER’S REVIEW:

 Jason Statham headlines this Action Thriller film. The Mechanic is a remake of the 1972 version. This 2011 version was Directed by Simon West. (Same guy that brought us Tomb Raider & Con Air). It’s also starring Ben Foster & Donald Sutherland. Statham is Arthur Bishop who is a professional assassin on a mission to find out who has killed his friend Harry. He reluctantly allows Harry’s son to accompany him in the fight for revenge.

Don’t you just hate that? When you watch a trailer for a film and it looks so exciting that you just want to head to the cinema but then only to watch it see its not as good as you thought it would be. It’s another version of The Transporter. The Mechanic exhibits gun shooting scenes & car chases that we have seen Stratham do before only this time he has brought along his trainee Steve and he's not dressed in a black suit. The fight scenes are bloody & limitedly entertaining. Funny enough it’s one of the few things they get right. Jason Stratham has the physical presence to bring us exciting fight scenes but the ones I watched were easily forgettable.

I don’t think they went in the right direction with the storyline. There’s not an ounce of originality, it starts off slow then tried to pick up but the storyline was already closed by half way through and I knew how it would end. The story doesn’t go deep enough. (I’ve seen these type of storylines many times before.)

Jason Statham does what he does best and that’s to look silent but be very deadly. His distinctive voice, heavy  build and constant sharp gaze is enough to intimidate any opponent. He is an action man so I won’t fault him on the script (I’m sure it was not his fault) He does a great job in this film as an actor. He is a very good actor. Steve McKenna (Foster) is the rookie that Arthur Bishop (Statham) carries along on his missions. I like Ben Foster as an actor especially in 30 Days of Night & 3:10 to Yuma. He brought his dark and edgy side to this role. His eyes and low but heavy voice gave his character what it needed.

This is a man’s film so lads if you like action then this is watchable.

#FACT: Charlie Bronson played the lead role in the original version of The Mechanic in 1972.

MY STAR RATINGS OUT OF 5:  3.5

ONE FAVOURITE MOMENT IN THE FILM:

Steve McKenna's fight with his first assignment.

(if you loved another moment in the film, please feel free to tell us in the comments)

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