The Raven
I actually went to the cinema to watch the Help, so when it was fully booked, The Raven was a slightly half-hearted back-up plan. essentially it's a film about Edgar Allan Poe hunting down a serial killer. I fele slightly uncomfortable with films that insist on butchering the legacies of famous people, so I was sceptical to say the least. Despite being slammed by the critics, I actually enjoyed it. Autobiographically it's no doubt a load of tosh, but for pure entertainment value - go see it.
Marley
A documentary about Bob Marley's life, told by the people who knew him best. Witty, poignant, disturbing, intriguing. I love Bob Marley's music, but knew very little about his life, his passions, his motivations and his frailties. Sprinkled with some of his best-loved music, any Marley fan is bound to find this documentary endearing.
The Dictator
Sacha Baron Cohen's latest take on society, playing a Middle Eastern dictator. I'm sad to say I just didn't get it. Elements of the film were witty enough, but nowhere near the genius of Borat. It just felt a bit try-hard, with many of the jokes lost on the audience as simply not funny. Shame really.
Albert Nobbs
The story of a 'man' living in 19th Century Ireland, trapped in a prison of his own making. I absolutely loved it. So poignant, tragic and beautifully acted. My heart bled for Albert Nobbs - whose quiet reserve shields an unbearable loneliness.
Moonrise Kingdom
The story of a young cub scout who runs away with a troubled girl, and the rescue operation that ensues. Being a staunch Wes Anderson fan, I went into this film knowing it would be a winner. Indeed it was, with all its colour, quirk and dry eccentricity. Another delight to match The Royal Tenenbaums, Rushmore and Life Aquatic.
A Royal Affair
I knew nothing of this Danish film before entering the cinema, and was fascinated with the result. An incredible history of King Christian VII, who suffers from severe mental illness and torments his young English Bride. Beautifully acted.
Snow White and the Huntsman
A re-make of the Grimms fairy tale, I've heard mixed reviews about this film. I found it deliciously dark, with incredible special effects (when the queen hauls herself out of the tar - mesmorising). Charlize Theron steals the show. A true exploration of the dark side of magic.
I felt the same way about The Dictator. I thought Borat was slightly innovative and clever and it got progressively worse all the way down to The Dictator. The jokes were obvious. :-/
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you liked Moonrise Kingdom. I'm excited to see that. :-)