Change Your Image
Jackie-Kennedy
Reviews
The Help (2011)
You is kind, You is smart, You is important.
You is kind. You is smart. You is important.
So says black maid Abilene to Mae Mobley, the small daughter of her wealthy white employers. As the little girl repeats the words back her one can't help but wonder if Abilene has ever had them said to her. Living in a world where a black man inhabits the White House is difficult to imagine a time when the same man could be arrested for refusing to give up his seat on the bus for a white person.
Set in Jacksonville, Mississippi in the 1960s this funny and poignant film, based the book by Kathryn Stockett, depicts a time, not so long ago, when a black maid couldn't use the same bathroom as her white employers, when black women raised white women's children but could not be trusted not to steal the silver and when telling the truth about your life as 'the help' was akin to signing your own death warrant.
Into this world of prejudice and secrecy comes Eugenia 'Skeeter' Phelan a recent college graduate with dreams of becoming a journalist. Skeeter has returned home to find that her beloved maid Constantine, who raised her, has seemingly left to go and live with her family in another state. On top of being devastated and confused by this Skeeter is also trying to pave a career for herself in New York. To do so she must convince the editor that she is a good writer. With this mind she happens upon a radical and potentially dangerous idea; to tell the story of the black maids of Jacksonville, from their point of view, enlisting Abilene, and her best friend Minnie, maid to the cruel Hilly to help her.
The three leads are perfectly cast. Viola Davis brings a quite sadness, tenderness and hidden strength to Abilene, Octavia Spencer perfectly portrays Minnie's brashness and loud mouth while also bringing out her caring side and vulnerability and Emma Stone shines as the bright and witty Skeeter, depicting perfectly her determination to change things and her confusion and sadness over the loss of her maid.
There are so many outstanding performances among the supporting cast in this film it seems unfair to single anyone out. However credit must be given where it is due and there are three performances' which really stuck with me. Bryce Dallas Howard, who I also thought of as decent but nothing special, really shines in the role of Hilly, the ultimate society queen bee and an out and out racist to boot. You really find yourself disgusted with her actions and attitude. Also a stand-out is Jessica Chastain as Ceila, town out cast and apparent man eater whose Marilyn Monrone-like facade, and pretty rose bushes, hide a tragic secret.
And while she has only three or four scenes, Cicely Tyson's scenes as Constantine, Skeeter's, much loved maid, are among the most touching and poignant in the film. Her final scene, in which we learn the true nature of her leaving the Phelan home, would break the hardest of hearts. Honourable mentions to Sissy Spacek as Hilly's slightly mad mother and Allison Janney as Skeeter's mother, a woman struggling with both a serious illness and her actions regarding Constantine.
The score and cinematography are amazing but it is the performances that make this film. It is touching and warm, poignant and sad, funny and uplifting. It is also important as a commentary on the dangerous judging people based on physical appearance and deals well with it's serious subject matter, allow the message to come across clearly without being too depressing or hard hitting.
All in all this is a must-see movie and one for the Oscars.
Band of Brothers (2001)
They depended on each other..and the world depended on them
Based on the best-selling book by the late Steven Ambrose and produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, this incredible series follows the men of Easy Company, an elite Paratrooper unit in the 101st Airborne from training for combat in Toccoa Georgia, through some of the toughest battles of World War II to the end of the war and after. Through these men we witness D-Day, Operation Market Garden and the Battle of the Bulge. We experience with them the horror of the Holocaust and the devastation of war-torn Europe.
Divided in to ten parts the series is true to Ambrose' book in every detail. The script and acting are flawless and done in such a way that one becomes attached to these young men and invested in them. You begin to experience the war with them. You cry when they cry, you laugh when they laugh, you are afraid when they are afraid. I couldn't possibly single out any one actor for praise because they are all so wonderful. From reading the book it is clear they have all done their homework and stay true to the personalities of the real men throughout.
Stand-out performances include Damian Lewis as Maj. Richard Winters, the best of Easy Company's many Commanding Officers. Lewis portrays a man with honour and dignity, who has his men's interests at heart at all times and is brave and selfless as well as loyal. Also worthy of mention is David "Ross from Friends" Schwimmer who plays Captain Herbert Sobel , Easy's most hated C.O. , a character so far removed from Ross Gellar it's hard to believe the same man can play such a different character. He perfectly portrays Sobels bully-boy personality and incompetence.
Other top notch performances include Rick Gomez as George Luz, the company Radio man and resident comedian who somehow manages to hold onto his sense of humour even in the toughest times, Donnie Walberg as Carwood Lipton, who effectively led the men through the Battle of the Bulge, Ron Livingston as Captain Lewis Nixon, Winter's closest friend and Easy's Intelligence Officer, who never fired a shot and Neal McDonough as 'Buck' Compton who was a brilliant soldier until he saw two of his best friends seriously wounded in Bastogne.
Honourable mentions to Michael Cudlitz( Sergeant 'Bull' Randleman), Eoin Bailey( Private David Webster), Shane Taylor ( 'Doc' Roe), James Madio ( Frank Preconte), Ross McCall ( Joe Liebgott) and Scott Grimes ( Don Malarkey).
Really though there are no bad performances in Band of Brothers. Prior to shooting the actors went through a two-week military boot camp as well as meeting with Easy veterans and conducting research and it all shows in the acting.
The episodes are beautifully and realistic shot from the beaches of Normandy to the Eagle's Nest. The score is haunting and fits the piece perfectly.
Perhaps the best part of the series is the interviews with the men of Easy themselves before each episode. Their memories are as vivid as if they were back fighting again.
If you are planning on watching a war drama make it this one!
Ashes to Ashes (2008)
Same old premise.....brand new story and all the better for it
If I was to give you one piece of advice regarding Ashes to Ashes it would be this; try to avoid the inevitable and don't compare it too much to Life on Mars. Easier said than done I know but I guarantee you the more you view it as a series in it's own right, as opposed to a third Life on Mars, the more you'll enjoy it. Yes the basic premise is the same but there are enough differences here to make this a successful and entertaining show in it's own right.
Ashes to Ashes takes our favorite non-PC DCI and his team-mates from the familiar nostalgia of 70s Manchester and propels him into the 80s in London. His new side-kick is Alex Drake, a modern day Police Physcologist who, as a result of being shot in the head during a hostage situation, finds herself back in 1981, the year in which her parents were killed.
So far so familiar. However what makes this series very different is the way in which Alex, unlike Sam Tyler in LoM, believes she understands whats going on because she has studied Sam's notes. This gives her a certain arrogance and self-assurance that may annoy some but which I found amusing.Keeley Hawses is perfect for the role giving just the right amount confidence with a little vulnerability thrown. Her angst at wanting to return to her daughter is palpable.
The Gene Hunt she meets is different too. As always Philip Glenister is on top form n as the Gene Genie but this time he has new dimensions to him. He's more subdued now and perhaps even a little vulnerable, having been through divorce, the loss of a colleague and transferal to a new city and living in a new era where is methods of policing are fast going out of fashion.But the old Gene is still there too and Phil still gets the pick of the one-liners.
We also get to see a more sensitive side to Gene in his relationship with Alex. The chemistry between the two is perfectly acted and palpable as they grow closer through the series.Phil and Keeley really gel together well and are perfectly matched.
Ray and Chris are as lovable as ever and Montserrat Lomabard, as new team member WPC 'Shaz' Granger is doing a great job and really fits in well with 'our boys'.
The 80s are very well represented between the choice of songs played throughout to the cars, clothes, hairstyles and even the inclusion the Royal Wedding. It'a all very authentic looking and really does take you back in time.
People are bound to complain about missing Sam Tyler/ John Simm and about Gene's new softer side and that Keeley isn't right etc but again, fan of LoM though I am, I suggest you try to view this program without preconceptions, with an open mind and remembering that nowhere did it ever say that this was simply a third Life on Mars. Rathers it's an extension of the series. The same premise but with new twists and turns. Characters have changed, new ones have been added, the era and social realities are different. But it's better for all that and is more interesting to watch than if were merely the same thing over again.
Rome (2005)
Rome Series 1......Gladiator has met it's match
Historical dramas,as a rule, are very hit and miss. While they can look stunning most will suffer from a lack of drama. And it will always be a challenge to bring to life the movers and shakers of history accurately. Just look and Troy and Alexander.While both were visually stunning they lacked depth(Alexander) and and historical accuracy(Troy).
So needless to say, as a student of Classics, when I heard about Rome for the first time I was unsure what to expect. Is it really possible to do justice accurately to the most colorful and action-packed period of Roman history? In a word YES. Rome is a perfect example of how do it right. It has something for everyone; Action,drama,suspense,humor,weepy bits,sex, romance, murder, violence, beautiful women and handsome men and historical accuracy for the most part anyway.
The story begins at a crucial period of Roman history, the conflict between Gnaeus Pompey Magnus ( Pompey the Great) and the most famous Roman of them all, Gaius Julius Caeser. The balance of power is shifting as Caeser, after his hugely successful campaign in Gaul is gaining popularity with the Plebs( ordinary people).
The tale is told through the eyes of two ordinary soldiers in Caeser's army, Centurian Lucius Vorenus and Legionnare Titus Pullo of the Thriteenth Legion. These two ordinary are thrust into the center of the conflict as Republic hangs in the balance, while dealing with their own personal issues. They come into contact with some of the biggest names of the day like Marc Antony, Caeser's right hand man and Gaius Octavian who will became Rome's first Emperor Augustus.
The series covers the beginnings of the conflict between Caeser and Pompey and continues up to the death of Caeser in the Senate House The performances are top notch. The stellar cast includes the wonderful Ciaran Hinds as Caeser, driven, proud and noble. Kenneth Cranham is on fine form as Pompey, Caeser's put upon former friend.
Special mention to James Purefoy as Antony. He brings to life the larger than life character you meet on the pages of Plutarch, rude,vulgar, selfish,brave, passionate, hilarious and it must be said impossibly handsome.
The tough ruthless Lucius Vorenus is played by Kevin McKidd in a role built for him. Ray Stevenson amazes as loyal lovable rogue Pullo. Other top performances include young Max Pirkis as Octavian. He clever, watchful and calculating, a shadow of what he is later to become.Kerry Condon as his sister Octavia and Polly Walker as his driven ambitious, often cruel Mother Atia are excellent.
On fine form also are Tobias Menzes as Brutus and Lindsay Duncan as Servilla. David Bamber as the famous Orator Cicero delivers one of his best performances yet. There is also a fine support cast including Indira Varmha as Vorenus' wife Niobe and Lee Boardman as the Horse-tamer Timon.
The sets are lush and almost fantastical but also realistic from the peace of the countryside to the hustle and bustle of the form and the grandeur of the Patrican homes. The sets are as authentic and historically correct as possible so that one really feels that one is there in Rome at this historical milestone.
Most of the larger events such as Caeser's death are as history tells us. Some artistic license has been taken. For example while Pullo and Vorenus are actual people their stories as told here are fictionalized as is the relationship between Antony and Atia. Nevertheless as a whole the piece is a top notch epic and worthy of all the praise it gets.Any fictionalized areas simply add to the story and help it flow.
This is how historical dramas should be done ; realistic and interesting with characters true to life and engaging, top notch script and fantastic acting.
Gladiator has met it's match.
The Island (2005)
The Island...thrilling, intelligent and thought-provoking
As we head towards the end of the first decade of the 21st Century it is worth taking a look back at the last say 100 years to see how far we've come. From a world without cures for even the most simple of diseases we are now finding ways of not just mending our bodies but actually replacing that damaged parts with new perfect organs or limbs. At the moment however it is only body parts, non-living items we are concerned with. We are still experimenting with idea of actually cloning a person. a human embryo. There are still issues of ethics to be dealt with. The Island then gives us fascinating, if a little unnerving insight, into what the future could hold for this new area of science and the hugely sensitive issue such developments could raise.
Set a little over 10 years into the future the film centers around an underground 'decontamination'facility run by the ruthless Dr.Merrik(Sean Bean on fine form as always). The inhabitants are a large ( and ever expanding) group of men and women who, the facility's staff would have them believe, the last survivors or a global contamination that makes living outside impossible. The 'survivors' are to are forced to remain underground living out their lives in a fairly routine way. The only way they can leave, so we are told, is by winning 'The Lottery' a draw which takes place weekly in which the lucky winners is allowed to leave and go to live on...you guessed it....The Island, the only uncontaminated place left on earth.
While most of the inhabitants, who are as a rule very simple people with simple lives, are happy to wait , one is becoming restless. Lincoln-6-Echo(Ewan McGregor) is convinced that something is not right, believes there is more going on than simply waiting to go to the Island and , despite Dr.Merrik's best efforts to convince him otherwise,decides to take the matter into his own hands, by doing the unthinkable, leaving the confines of the facility and going up top. In the process of doing so he learns the terrible truth.
The 'survivors' are in fact clones. In the time when this is set the rich have begun to follow a trend of paying to themselves cloned and what this facility provides are essentially insurance policies, whereby you pay a huge amount of money to have yourself cloned. This provides you with everything from new limbs and organs to a carrier for your baby.
As far as the customer is concerned, however, the clone remains in vegetative state for the duration of it's existence. And Merrik , since what he is doing breaks several laws and because of the huge profit he makes, intends to keep it that way.So when Lincoln and his friend Jordan-Two-Delta( Scarlett Johanssen)make a break for it and set out to find their donors and reveal the truth he will stop at nothing to prevent them from doing so.
This film has just about everything going for it. The cast is stellar. Ewan McGregor, it seems, can turn his hand to just about anything, be it a Jedi Master, a young Poet or a Clone. He portrays Lincoln's confusion and restlessness with ease as well as his fear when he learns the truth. Scarlett Johanssen has really been making her presence felt in Hollywood and this is no exception. As Jordan she is sweet and innocent but yet intelligent. Perfect. As I have a soft spot for Sean Bean I can't say a bad thing about him but he really plays the villain well. He is cold calculating and yet projects something else too...guilt perhaps or unsureness as to what he is doing? I'm not sure but it's there and I like it. A superb support cast of clones and facility personnel helps steer the film.
The actual premise of the film is highly original and very well maintained through-out. It is very believable because we are in a time where cloning is foremost among the issues being dealt with in Medicine circles as well as being debating for moral, ethical and other standpoints. It doesn't require a huge stretch of the imagination to imagine something similar to this occurring 10, 20 years down the line. It is a reality that we need to think about. We're not there yet but we are close.In this way it gets you thinking more than many movies can.
There as some thrilling chase scenes and intense emotional drama as Lincoln and Jordan begin to discover their human natures and come face to face with Lincoln's donor, Tom Lincoln, an adventurer type(also McGregor). All in all the film hits all the right spots and leaves an impression on you as it forces you to contemplate issues that effect us each individually and as a whole.
10/10 *****
The Black Dahlia (2006)
The Black Dahlia .............Nothing stays hidden forever.....
It amazes me how people claiming to be able to properly review a film can only say about The Black Dahlia "It was too confusing" or "I couldn't follow the plot". My view is that people were mislead by the title into assuming that the Black Dahlia murder itself was to be main focus, which any true McEllroy and De Palma fans will tell you is not and was not ever the case. These people then decided they weren't going to enjoy the film, zoned out and complained that it was hard to follow!! Well let me tell you if you like your films intelligent, dark, atmospheric and emotionally charged this is most definitely the one for you.
The plot of course centers on LAPD Officers Dwight 'Bucky' Bleichart( Josh Harnett) and Leland 'Lee' Blanchard( Aaron Eckhart) aka Mr.Ice and Mr.Fire respectively due to their boxing skills and the tale is told by Bucky ( in voice-overs) The film's backdrop is the horrific and now infamous murder rising star Elizabeth'Beth'Shortt( Mia Kershner) aka 'The Black Dahlia' whose disfigured mutilated remains were found in August 1947 by a woman walking her baby in downtown L.A. Our two protagonists are called in to investigate the crime which was so horrible that all the details were kept from the public.
While Lee and Bucky go all out to solve the heinous crime each is also dealing with his personal issues. Lee's growing obsession with the case threatens his relationship with his girlfriend Kay ( Scarlett Johanssen). Added to the strain is the eminent release of Bobby De Witt whom Lee had previously put behind bars for numerous crimes including some close to home. Bucky meanwhile finds himself entwined in a love-affair with wealthy if rebellious Madeline Linscott(Hilary Swank) who bears an uncanny resemblance to Beth Shortt, while also dealing with his feelings for Kay.
Special mention to Aaron Eckhart's pitiful obsessed yet tragic portrayal of Blanchard whose dedication to the case proves his undoing.
Josh Harnett is on top form as the narrator Bucky, the new recruit struggling with his feelings for Kay and Madeline while trying to keep his partner together. He portrays Bucky's struggles and angst perfectly.
Scarlett Johanssen is currently the sweetheart of Hollywood and it's easy to see why. Not only has she the beauty of all those old 40s sirens but she plays Kay with the skills of a woman twice her age. She is both headstrong and lost. The electricity between her and Bucky is palpable.
Hilary Swank is the mysterious heiress to whom Bucky is drawn. Her Madeline is a strong woman with a dark side to her and Hilary captures it perfectly.
Beth Shortt we get to know through interviews with acquaintances and screen test recordings featuring the beautiful Mia Kershner as the doomed 'Dahlia'. Mia portrays Beth as a lost frightened little girl who feels she has to sell herself to be. She is a beautiful and tragic figure. A perfect performance.
This is an intense atmospheric thriller that catches you from the word go and doesn't let you unhook yourself till the end credits. The performances are passionate and captivating.The 40s style Cinematography is beautiful and atmospheric with a Film Noir quality.
The story is full of side plots and twists to keep the viewer on his/her toes. While some may call it confusing and unwatchable I say you simply need to have enough of a brain to be able to think it through logically.
The 1940s style cinematography is beautiful and gives the film a dark atmospheric edge and the acting is superb. De Palma keeps faithful to McEllroy's excellent novel but gives the story an energy and intense emotional drive that can only be given on screen.
This is definitely a film I would recommend as a must-see to anyone who likes a good thriller.Remember that the 'Dahlia'herself is not the main focus of the film, since Ellroy's book was not focused solely on her. Rather she is the catalyst for the all the events following the murder.Just keep an open mind and rather than being put off by the focus of the story think it through logically and you won't have a problem understanding anything.
***** 10/10
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999)
Let's start at the very beginning.....................
Having wowed the world with his stunning trilogy charting the adventures of young Luke Skywalker and the fearsome Darth Vadar some 20 years ago the genius that is George Lucas has once again traveled back to that Galaxy far far away and taken us back in time to see how it all began. Because ultimately, as the man himself says, the Saga is not Luke's tale but that of his father.It is the tale of an idealistic, talented young boy was manipulated by and succumbed to forces much stronger than himself and was lead down a path that would ultimately lead to his own destruction.
However all that seems(but only seems) a lifetime away as The Phantom Menace opens. At the time in question the biggest worry for the Galactic Republic is the Trade Federation's boycott of the small planet of Naboo. The story begins as Chancellor Valoreum, leader of the Senate, sends two Jedi Knights, the wise if a little rebellious Master Qui-Gon Jin ( the incredible Liam Neeson) and his young Apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi(a wonderful performance by Ewan McGregor) to try and negotiate with Viceroy Nute Gunray of the Trade Federation on behalf on the Naboo and their leader the young Queen Amidala ( the beautiful and talented Natalie Portman) However the Viceroy has no intentions of negotiating and is in fact in the process of sending an Invasion Army to Naboo. As a result of this our two Jedi, after a daring escape from Gunray's ship and rescuing the now imprisoned Queen, find themselves on the run with Her Majesty, her servants and rather clumsy Gungan ( something between a lizard and a fish) called Jar-Jar Binks whom they rescued and by gungan law now own as a result.
It is as they attempt to transport the Queen to the city planet of Corscant to plead with the Senate for help, the ship gets damaged. Whether by a twist of Fate or destiny they land on a remote planet by the name of Tatooine and Master Qui-Gon goes in search of spares parts in the Space Port town of Mos Eisely accompanied by the Queen's young maid ( or is she?) by the name of Padme. They end up the shop of the Toydarian(almost like a large blue bee) scrap metal dealer Waldo. And it is here that somethings happens that will change all their lives forever. Because it is in Waldo's dingy store that they first meet the idealistic young slave boy Anakin Skywalker in whom Qui-Gon senses a Force stronger than any other.
After events ensue that result in Anakin being set free to train as a Jedi our weary travelers continue on to Corscant to rendezvous with Naboo Senator Palpadine(who may be more than meets the eye) but not before a mysterious being all in black attacks Qui-Gon and duels with him using, worryingly, a Lightsaber. Events have taken a more sinister turn because apart from the Jedi the only ones fight that way are the Sith, sort of the Anti-Jedi. But as far as the Jedi had been concerned the Sith had long since vanished.Could this have anything to do with the sudden invasion of Naboo? And which attacked Qui-Gon, the Apprentice or the Master? And most importantly who is the Master?
Although this film is not as a dark or as sinister as some of the others it is nonetheless a masterpiece. For where it lacks the sinister feel of the next few films it makes up for it in adventure and excitement. There is also a sense of anticipation as we meet characters who will play pivotal roles in the next two films. I particularly urge you to pay attention to Padme, Palpetine and of course young Anakin, who as we know is destined for greater powers than anyone in the period of the film could have imagined.
An all-star cast including new faces like Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman and young Jake Lloyd as Anakin join familiar faces like Anthony Daniels and Ian McDiarmuid to bring beautifully to life the many different and colorful inhabitants of George Lucas's Galaxy. The special effects are as always incredible from stunning space battles above the planet of Corscant ( an entire city covers the surface) to the beautiful haunting underwater Gungan city and the majestic senate house. John Williams fantastic scores captures the atmosphere perfectly.
This film is the beginning of the greatest Saga ever created and as such is a fitting start to a thrilling captivating tale. Like always George Lucas continues to surpass himself and others in his creative genius and incredible vision.
Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)
The rise of Darth Vadar ........a thrilling finale thats leaves you wanting more
Well folks this it. The beginning of the end.The one we've all been waiting for. Finally all will be revealed. In this, the final film of George Lucas stunning Saga, we finally learn the answer to the question that's been plaguing us for 20 years; How and why did Darth Vadar turn to the Dark side. And contrary to popular criticism George has yet scored another Home Run with this dramatic and thriller of young Anakin Skywalker's demise....and Darth Vadar's rise.
In Attack of the Clones we saw that Anakin had powers above and beyond the other Jedi. We also saw,in the wake of his Mother's death, that he is not afraid to use them. We began to see shadows of the cold calculating evil that would consume him as he mercilessly slaughtered an entire tribe of Sand People.Now in Revenge of the Sith George Lucas finally brings his fall from grace to a dramatic end as Anakin finally succumbs to the Dark Side with tragic consequences.
We pick up the tale with Anakin having been secretly married to Padme for some time. The Clone Wars are in full swing and tension is growing between the Jedi Order and Supreme Chancellor Palpatine who has remained in power for longer than he should and begun to show signs being turned by dark forces. The ever present threat from the unknown Sith Lord grows with each passing day.
Equally Anakin is becoming more and more disillusioned with the Jedi whom he feels do not recognize his true potential. As he grows farther apart those who were once his mentors, including Obi-Wan(of whose performance Sir Alec Guiness would be proud), he strikes up a friendship with Palpatine that will ultimately be his undoing and that of the Jedi and the Republic.
Things begin to go wrong when Anakin starts to get nightmares, similar to those he had of his Mother before her death, that seem to predict the death of the now pregnant Padme in childbirth.Desperate to save her from this fate Anakin is drawn farther and farther into the Dark Side as he learns the true identity of the Sith Lord. Now he faces a choice that will lead down a dark and dangerous path;to become a Sith Lord himself and in the process save his wife from certain death.
Poor Hayden Christenson has been run into the ground by critics who seem concerned only with ruining his career as they slug it out to see can insult him the most. However he needn't pay any heed to them as this is a stellar performance for the actor with perhaps the toughest role in the Saga; to bring humanness to Darth Vadar. And he does it with ease. He portrays perfectly Anakin's frustration with the Jedi and desperation to save Padme.Through his emotional performance is captured his confusion and disillusionment with his Master and his deep love for his wife . The scenes which chart his final demise and succumbing to the Dark Side are powerful and Hayden captures the tragic fall from grace of Anakin perfectly. If people would realize that the Vadar here is a different more human person the almost Mechanical villain of the original trilogy they would see that Hayden's performance is exactly as it should be; conflicted,frustrated and in great pain.
Special mention should also go to the wonderful Ian McDiarmuid as the sinister Chancellor Palpatine.Ian is one of the few actors carried through from the original trilogy here and his performance, as the earlier version of his character, The Emperor in the first episodes, is excellent especially as he is older now but playing a younger version of the original character.George Lucas should pat himself on the back for finding Ian those 20 odd years ago. His performances have been consistently good despite what critics may say.He is cold, calculating, cunning,manipulative and sinister in all the right proportions and truly gives you chills as he delivers his lines. There is one scene in particular at the Opera in which he is telling Anakin the legend of Darth Plagus the Wise of the Sith who was so powerful he could create life and more importantly prevent death. There is something chilling in the way he tells the story. You get shivers listening to him.You can see here shadows of what he will become in the future.
This is perhaps the most highly anticipated film of the entire Saga and George Lucas doesn't disappoint. From the thrilling open sequences of the aerial battle above Corscont to the final showdown between Anakin and Obi-Wan and of course the first appearance of the villain we've come to love the viewer is kept on the edge of his/her seat. Emotions run high throughout the film and the viewer struggles between pity, shock, horror, suspense and anticipation.The special effects are second to none from the Clone Troops march on the Jedi Temple to stunning final battle above the river of Lava between Anakin and Obi-Wan and the harrowing betrayal by their troops of the Jedi. The dramatic score completes the picture perfectly.
The battles are action-packed and many of the characters really come into their own as sides are taken, loyalties are divided and trusts are broken.As the saying goes Revenge is sweet and that of the Sith is brutal, swift and thrilling. It is a roller-coaster of fear, anger, bravery and sadness as Apprentice turns on Master, friends become enemies and the way is paved for the next generation to take up the battle. The clever ending leaves the viewer wanting to continue the adventure and watch on through the Saga even though we know where it will lead.
Lucas has created a thrilling, emotional, action-packed adventure with a real human edge that will delight and enthrall fans and newcomers alike. I bet he's laughing all the way to the bank!George you are a genius!
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
No beginning and no end........The plot darkens
This film, the second of George Lucas' incredible Saga, not only expands on the first and improves upon it in many ways but it also proves that a film can be a huge success without having a true beginning or end. Rather The Empire Strikes Back is but another chapter in the enduring tale begun by a New Hope.But it has enough witty dialog, amazing action sequences and brilliant new characters to make it a wonderful film in its own right as well.
We pick up the story on the remote island of Hoth where the Rebel Alliance has established a base beneath the snow. The Galatic Empire is hot on their tale as Darth Vadar continues his obsessive search for young Luke Skywalker, in whom he has sensed a strength beyond any he himself possesses. Luke meanwhile sets out on his own voyage to the swamps of Dagobah in search of the famed Jedi Master Yoda to train as a Jedi.
In order to help the story along Lucas introduces a range of new and interesting characters. A new villain emerges in the form of the cold hearted calculating Bounty Hunter Boba Fett hired by Vadar to find Skywalker. Fett has his own agenda too. He is being payed by Jabba the Hutt to capture Han Solo from whom Jabba is owed a dept. Another ally is also to be found in Lando Clarissian , smooth talking Administrator of Cloud City mining colony. A gambler, smuggler and old friend of Han he has entered into a tenuous deal with Vadar to protect his city but in the process must betray his old friend to the Empire.Perhaps the most iconic and best loved of all the characters is not a human at all but a small green puppet who likes talking backwards. Jedi Master Yoda is by far the most entertaining non-human character and is a perfect mix humor, mystery and wisdom
This film is much darker and action packed then the first with battles on Hoth and the desperate feeling from the Imperial Fleet of the Millennium Falcon. There is drama coming at you from all angles as Han Solo taken prisoner by Boba Fett in the most cruel manner and Vadar conspires to turn Luke to the Dark Side.We see a crueler, more selfish and sadistic side to Vader than before which adds to the tension.
Here also the ultimate man-to-man combat as Luke Skywalker comes face to face with Darth Vadar and learns in the process a terrible truth about his Father leading to perhaps the most famous quote in Cinematic history.There is also a little romance thrown into the mix as Han and Leia's relationship develops.
The Empire Strikes Back has some of the wittiest lines in the entire Saga. Such memorable quotes as " Laugh it up fuzzball!" and " He is clumsy as he is stupid" when heard in context show the skill of Lucas as scriptwriter. Special Effects beggar belief has giant four-legged walking robots are felled by fighter planes and Imperial Destroyers chase the Millennium Falcon across the Galaxy. Clearly this film is George and Co at full artistic strength.
For a film with no beginning and and no end The Empire Strikes Back is a masterpiece.It continues the Saga in a believable and captivating way and succeeds in leaving the audience gagging for more as we hope and pray Han will survive, will Luke not to give up on his path and be turned to the Dark Side and wonder how the rebels will recover from the blows dealt them by the Empire .
Star Wars (1977)
A Legend is Born.........
All folklore no matter where you come from as several basic tenants. You have the hero, the villain, the damsel in distress, , sidekicks, minions, guides, heroic battles, tragedies and victories. Good stories but hardly the stuff of a blockbusting movie. Or is it...? How on earth to take something as basic as a Good-vs-Evil Hero-vs-Villain story and make a movie that will capture imaginations? It can't be done can it? You just can't do it? Well yes actually you can. If you're George Lucas.
I was but a babe in arms when the incredible triumph that is the Star Wars Saga was wowing generations of movie-goers worldwide.But although I didn't experience it on the Big Screen I can honestly say I fully understand and appreciate Lucas genius today 20 years on.I can honestly say I have yet to see another Saga measure up to Star Wars in both its look and its content.
The premise of course the story of a young farm boy Luke Skywalker, wonderfully played by a young Mark Hamill who captures Luke's frustrations and desires perfectly.Young Luke seems destined to spend his life on his Uncle's farm on the remote planet of Tatooine doing chores but he dreams off more. He longs to be a pilot and see the universe. But that seems to be nothing more than a dream.
That is until a chance meeting with two droids called C3PO and R2D2 results in his befriending an old hermit by the name of Ben Kenobi( Sir Alec Guiness) changing his life forever. For the old Hermit is in fact a great Jedi warrior called Obi-Wan Kenobi and the droids carry a distress message from a Princess on a Star Ship under the captivity of the Galactic Empire and it's ruthless leader Darth Vadar. Now Luke will leave his home and begin an adventure he could only have dreamed of, make new friends and learn things about himself and his family that he never knew were possible.
Thus began one of the greatest movie adventures of all time and thus were created some of modern cinema's most memorable characters. All the folklore-type characters are present in Lucas masterpiece but he has managed to change and alter them enough to fit his incredible vision.
The Hero of course is young Luke. Spirited and dreamer, Luke is also fiercely brave and loyal and something of an adventurer. He is also desperate to learn more about his Father, about whom his Aunt and Uncle refuse to speak.Mark Hamil is top notch in the role.
The Damsel in distress is the Plucky Princess Leia , played with gusto by the then just 19 year old Carrie Fisher. Leia is the sender of the message that changes Luke's life. She is a member of a Rebel Alliance formed to oppose the mighty Galactic Empire and she was carrying the plans to the Empire's ultimate weapon , the dreaded Death Star to members of the her Alliance when the Imperial Fleet attacked her convoy.Little do either she or Luke know that they are connected by more than the droids.
Luke also acquires a side-kick in the form of the smart, selfish rouge Han Solo. Smuggler and skilled pilot Han also proves to be a useful ally and a firm friendship is formed between the seasoned Solo and the young idealistic Jedi-in-Training. Solo is played by the ever wonderful Harrison Ford who lends just the right amount of sarcastic selfishness to an essentially good lovable character.
Sir Alec Guiness is a cinematic legend and his wise old Jedi Knight is yet another fine performance from this seasoned veteran. Just mysterious enough to make you wonder just who he is and what he knows ( you learn more in EpV) he is also wise and a comfort to Luke ( and indeed the viewer) as he guides the young man ( and us) through his development as a Jedi and a man.
Star Wars also gave rise to perhaps one of cinema's most iconic and best loved Villains. His almost mechanical breathing and deep sinister voice ( courtesy of James Earl Jones) have made Darth Vadar the best loved of all villains and indeed the most feared. At this time he is in command of the Imperial Fleet and rules the Empire with an Iron fist. All in black with that fearsome mask he is the epitome of the Dark Side and is wonderfully brought to life by Earl-Jones and David Prowse who wears the suit.And of course as we see later on he is also one of the most human and pitiful characters in the Saga despite being more man then machine.He will become Luke's biggest threat but also his strongest connection, a connection Luke never dreamed he would find but the last he wants to have.
This was a new genre of film, Sci-Fi mixed with Fantasy and it worked a charm. The world was, and indeed still is, captivated, and its easy to see why. Its got action, suspense, romance, humor, danger and fear. And all this from Lucas twin interests in Space Travel and Folklore combined with a love for and real skill at making movies. The Saga, so wonderfully brought full circle with parts 1,2 and 3 recently , took off from the base so amazingly created in A New Hope and has gone from strength to strength ever since. This film is a wonder of modern film and I firmly believe it will stand the test of time.
Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983)
An excellent end to the greatest Saga ever created
I was but a babe in arms when George Lucas was wowing the world with his out of this world Saga chronicling the adventures of young Luke Skywalker and the notorious Darth Vadar but even today 20 years on I can appreciate the genius that is Lucas and the incredible imagination he's been blessed with. In A New Hope Lucas showed a new way to tell stories as he introduced us to such memorable characters as the plucky Princess Leia, the Rougish Han Solo and the spirited Luke Skywalker as well as that best loved of villains, the sinister Darth Vadar. In The Empire Strikes Back he went all out to show us Special Effects can add to a tale and managed to something no-one thought you could do on screen. He made a film with no specific end or beginning and it went down a treat. Return of the Jedi is a fitting end to a Saga that will stand the test of time.
When The Empire Srtikes Back ended with encasing of the lovable Rouge Han Solo in Carbonite to be delivered to Jabba the Hut and young Luke reeling from the discovery of a terrible truth about his Father we were left with the feeling that things were going from bad to worse. Vadar it seemed had won the day. How we asked could the rebels ever recover from this blow? In Lucas stunning and captivating final chapter we are kept on the edges of our seats from Han's daring rescue from Jabba's palace to the the final climactic battle on the Death Star between Luke and Vadar as Luke struggles between fulfilling his duties as a Jedi and rebel fighter and attempting to reawaken the good he believes is still in his Father's soul.
Old friends like the smooth talking Lando Calrissian and the ever lovable Chewbacca reunite for one final battle to end all battles as a new darker more dangerous enemy emerges in the form of the Emperor himself ( played by the brilliant Ian McDiarmiud.How he missed out on an Oscar is a mystery.) desperate to turn Luke to the Dark Side even if it means betraying his apprentice Darth Vadar.All in black with his red eyes,ghostly white disfigured face and sinister laugh he truly is a terrifying addition to the story and is the undisputed Master of the events that unfold. His new and improved Death Star spells disaster for the rebels but the brave group launch one last desperate attack to end the Empire's reign for good.
Lucas managed to incorporate three different stories at once and keep the action going so that the audience is riveted. We watch in excitement as Han and Leia attempt to bring down the shield around the Death Star from the forest Moon of Endor with the help of some adorable Ewoks ( who I really do not believe take from the movie at all. In fact I feel they provide a sort reprieve from the tension of the battles at and in the Death Star) and hindered by legions of Stormtroopers and Imperial Officers. We cheer on Lando and the other pilots as they take on the mighty Imperial Fleet and risk life and limb to fly into the Deatn Star to destroy it once and for all. And we watch with bated breath as Vadar and the Emperor attempt to turn Luke to the Dark Side while he in turn tries to turn his Father back.
But for me the most difficult and yet compelling battles is that going on inside Darth Vadar. For ROTJ is a battle of emotions and feelings. Vadar is caught between his loyalty to the Emporer and the Empire and his Fatherly inclinations to Luke. Never did I think that a mask could show emotion but some-how one can't but see the confusion and pain on Vadar's face during the final scenes as the Emporer turns on Luke. There is more depth and emotion to Vadar than I believed a villain, especially one more machine then man could have and that I think is what makes him so accessible. He is conflicted. The Apprentice as much as the Master. The Victim as much as the Villain. Without ruining the end too much Vadar's final scene is the most poignant and wonderful in the trilogy.
So in conclusion what can I say. George Lucas is the master of the Saga. Star Wars is the most compelling and engaging Sagas I've seen in a long time and I have yet to see another Saga rival it. Return of the Jedi has all the ingredients necessary to provide the ending Lucas masterpiece deserves. It's action, suspense, romance, tragedy, redemption, joy all rolled into one and it's memorable characters, wonderful special effects and catchy music make both a great movie in its own right and an ending that Lucas can be proud of.
The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
Lloyd Webber has hit the jackpot again
Poor Gerard Butler. He was public enemy number one before filming even began. No-one could accept that some-one who was not voice-trained and had never sung a note in his career could take on one of Musical Theater's most famous and emotionality charged parts. Could a 32 year old Scottish stage actor with no singing experience really step into Michael Crawford's sizable shoes? Answer? A great big YES! Gerard, although not a classically trained singer, has to his advantage a gravelly emotional voice that is perfect for the role of the tortured and lonely phantom. At six-foot three and being incredibly handsome he's quite an imposing screen presence. His Phantom is just the right mix of danger, passion, anger and loneliness.
One of Joel Schumacher's requirements was that he wanted a young cast particularly for the part of Christine. He believed that youth would help with the innocence of the story. No surprise then that the part of the beautiful heroine went to 16 year old Emmy Rossum. The young actress has a beautiful soft Soprano voice, having sung in Opera since the age of 9. She perfectly exhibits Christine's youth and innocence while clearly portraying her confusion and mixed up feelings. Sarah Brightman has a new rival. Her voice, thought not yet as powerful as Sarah's fits the bill to a tee.
In the play the character of Raoul is rather minor as ALW himself has said but for the film version he is brought more to the fore thanks to excellent acting and singing of the part of actor and lyric tenor Patrick Wilson. Wilson's Roaul is a handsome, sword-wielding, passionate hero type. His superb Tenor compliments Emmy's soft Soprano and Gerards gravelly voice perfectly. He is a strong agile actor and really gives Raoul a more human feel.
I'd love to say more about the lush sets , wonderful costumes and beautiful haunting music but sadly I'm running out of space. Suffice to say the spirit of Andrew Lloyd Webber's captivating play is very much kept alive but with everything on a bigger grander scale that the stage would allow. Fans will not be disappionted and newcommers will be captivated from the opening scene. And as for Gerard Butler? Well personally I think old Michael Crawford would be proud!
Thirteen Days (2000)
The mother of Political thrillers
As one with a long held interest in the life and times of JFK I had high hopes for this film. I am pleased to say I was not let down in any way. Thirteen Days is easily the best historical and political thriller to come about in a long time.
The film of course centers around the events of the two weeks Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. Through the eyes of Presidential aid Kenny O'Donnell, JFK himself and Bobby Kennedy it takes us through the Crisis from the moment the Missiles were spotted. It's real eye-opener because you can't believe how close we came to war.
Although Kevin Costner has received some flak for his New England accent I have to say that anyone who focuses in on trivial matters like that is missing the point of the film. O'Donnell serves as guide through the world of JFK and Ex-Comm. Costner's portrayal is a perfect mix of business like and friendship. Through his eyes we see the intimate workings of government and learn a thing or two about loyalties.
Personally though I think the movie belongs to Bruce Greenwood as JFK and Steven Culp as RFK. Greenwood, as the put upon President, is excellent. He looks the part (handsome and yet all business) and his accent is superb. He has Kennedy's various mannerisms and his habits of leaning a lot and sitting awkwardly to a tee. His JFK is shown as both a powerful leader and yet a vulnerable, exhausted and sick man.He carries the part like a true professional and I have yet to see a better Kennedy.
Poor Steven Culp tends to get overlooked as Bobby Kennedy but in fact this is one of his finest performances. Again he looks, speaks and acts the part to perfection. He is youthful and energetic but yet a top politician and business man. The closeness between Bobby and Jack is also wonderfully shown through little meaningful looks and glances between Culp and Greenwood.
The support cast are superb and the piece is historically accurate which is rare in film. There is suspense, action humor and strong remotion throughout. Hats off to a superb piece of film.
Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)
A beautiful engaging and entertaining tale of a mysterious world
Having read Arthur Golden's wonderful book and thoroughly enjoying it I came to the film with an understandably high expectation of what was in store. I am pleased to say I wasn't let down in any way. Rob Marshall has succeeded in bringing a mysterious and beautiful world to life and telling a story we can all relate to; a struggle to live your own life while embracing the rules and regulations that go with it.
To those who say a Chinese actress can't play a Japanese woman I say thats like suggesting Mel Gibson couldn't play a Scot or Cate Blanchett an Irish woman. Its absurd and untrue. Michelle, Ziyi and Li play three very different women but all put their hearts into it and it shows. I especially commend Li who cannot speak any English at all for her cruel yet very vulnerable Hatsumomo. She struck the right balance between the cruel selfish Geisha and the trapped lonely young woman underneath. Michelle's Mameha is every bit the mothering influence, the perfect Geisha, but she too has layers. She has a duty to do but she is woman and has feelings like everyone else. And then there's Ziyi; beautiful, accomplished and trapped a role she plays to perfection. Mother and Aunty are both hugely entertaining and very lovable.
The male half of the cast complete the picture. Ken Wantanabe's Chairman is exactly what's you'd expect kind, loyal and of course very handsome. Nobu is played to a tee by Kochi just the right combination of hard exterior and soft sensitive heart. The Baron is hard cruel but you see too why Mameha likes him.
The costumes are beautiful the scenery dazzles and the acting is superb. The story engages and captures you and picture draws you deep in to the Geisha's world. This a true masterpiece, a one of a kind movie.