LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
CIVIL WAR
Release Date: 2024
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 109 mins
A dystopian thriller, written and directed by Alex Garland, that delivered an unexpectedly enjoyable and action packed tale about a team of journalists caught in a fictionalised America in the midst of a Civil War.
A rag tag team of photographic journalists attempt to race across America to reach the President of the United States for a final interview at the White House, before the rebel factions take over.
I really liked that the movie didn't try to explain itself or any of the reasons for Civil War, it just dove straight into the cross country gauntlet and the incredible, harrowing and dangerous situations that the journalists found themselves in.
Kirsten Dunst is fantastic as Lee Smith, a renown war photographer and Cailee Spaeny delivers perfectly as the young aspiring photographer Jessie. Nick Offerman appears as the president and Jessie Plemons makes a cameo as a douchbag soldier.
Overall, this is affecting and intense viewing with an excellent mix of action, credible acting and plausible story telling. Civil War is definitely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: Don't expect to sleep. That way, if you do, it's a nice surprise.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2024
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 109 mins
A dystopian thriller, written and directed by Alex Garland, that delivered an unexpectedly enjoyable and action packed tale about a team of journalists caught in a fictionalised America in the midst of a Civil War.
A rag tag team of photographic journalists attempt to race across America to reach the President of the United States for a final interview at the White House, before the rebel factions take over.
I really liked that the movie didn't try to explain itself or any of the reasons for Civil War, it just dove straight into the cross country gauntlet and the incredible, harrowing and dangerous situations that the journalists found themselves in.
Kirsten Dunst is fantastic as Lee Smith, a renown war photographer and Cailee Spaeny delivers perfectly as the young aspiring photographer Jessie. Nick Offerman appears as the president and Jessie Plemons makes a cameo as a douchbag soldier.
Overall, this is affecting and intense viewing with an excellent mix of action, credible acting and plausible story telling. Civil War is definitely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: Don't expect to sleep. That way, if you do, it's a nice surprise.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
FURIOSA: A MAD MAX SAGA
Release Date: 2024
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 158 mins
The fifth instalment in the Mad Max franchise that is neither the best offering nor the worst. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga does however offer another post-apocalyptic adventure into the violent and ruthless wastelands of Australia. And although I didn't enjoy it quite as much as Mad Max: Fury Road, I did think that it was another fun, high-speed action offering that is worthy of your time.
Lead by the Warlord Dementus, a biker horde stumble across a young girl named Furiosa whilst they are looting 'The Green Place' (one of the last remaining areas in the wastelands that is still abundant with water and agriculture). Eager to please their leader, the bikers steal Furiosa and take her to Dementus who claims her as his daughter; but only after he brutally murders her mother in front of her. As Furiosa grows, she establishes an esteemed foot-hold within the Citadel walls of Immortan Joe, vowing to one day return to The Green Place and strike revenge on Dementus.
You don't go and see a George Miller 'Mad Max' movie because you are looking for a sophisticated slice of civilised cinema, you go for the high octane, uber violent, gasoline guzzling, apocalyptic carry on; and on that front there is plenty to like about this film. One certainly cannot deny that Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth are brilliant as Furiosa and Dementus, carrying the story to much greater heights with their combined efforts.
So, if you are looking for a couple of hours of action that has tonnes of sand, loads of violence, some souped up rigs and a couple of unforgettably evil super villains, then you will love what Furiosa is delivering.
FINAL SAY: Where are you going, so full of hope? There is no hope!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2024
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 158 mins
The fifth instalment in the Mad Max franchise that is neither the best offering nor the worst. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga does however offer another post-apocalyptic adventure into the violent and ruthless wastelands of Australia. And although I didn't enjoy it quite as much as Mad Max: Fury Road, I did think that it was another fun, high-speed action offering that is worthy of your time.
Lead by the Warlord Dementus, a biker horde stumble across a young girl named Furiosa whilst they are looting 'The Green Place' (one of the last remaining areas in the wastelands that is still abundant with water and agriculture). Eager to please their leader, the bikers steal Furiosa and take her to Dementus who claims her as his daughter; but only after he brutally murders her mother in front of her. As Furiosa grows, she establishes an esteemed foot-hold within the Citadel walls of Immortan Joe, vowing to one day return to The Green Place and strike revenge on Dementus.
You don't go and see a George Miller 'Mad Max' movie because you are looking for a sophisticated slice of civilised cinema, you go for the high octane, uber violent, gasoline guzzling, apocalyptic carry on; and on that front there is plenty to like about this film. One certainly cannot deny that Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth are brilliant as Furiosa and Dementus, carrying the story to much greater heights with their combined efforts.
So, if you are looking for a couple of hours of action that has tonnes of sand, loads of violence, some souped up rigs and a couple of unforgettably evil super villains, then you will love what Furiosa is delivering.
FINAL SAY: Where are you going, so full of hope? There is no hope!
3 Chilli Peppers
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
Release Date: 2023
Rating: M
Running Time: 105 mins
A Polish language, historical drama written and directed by Jonathon Glazer that is loosely based on the 2014 novel of the same name by Martin Amis. The Zone of Interest offers a unique and disturbing look into the life of a Nazi commandant and his family who reside in a home that is situated alongside of the Auschwitz concentration camp in 1943.
Rudolf Hoss and his wife Hedwig are happily raising their five children in a seemingly idyllic home, however, even the highest of fences cannot disguise the ugliness that lies just outside of their own backyard. As Hoss goes about his business as a commandant for the Auschwitz concentration camp next door, Hedwig gardens, oversees the running of the house (with her many servants) and enjoys the treasures that the Jewish prisoners leave behind. The family are seemingly unruffled by the gunshots, shouting, trains and furnaces that are constantly apparent just beyond the boundaries of their home.
It's the things that you don't see but know are going on that are the most affecting in this film. Watching people go about their everyday lives and chatting about the mundane whilst unspeakable horror is occurring just next door is so deeply unsettling. The sound design here is genius, constantly gnawing in the background of every shot like an ominous black cloud that you cannot ignore. And the actors are just incredible, with Sandra Huller and Cristian Friedel offering eerily cold portrayals of a young Nazi couple dutifully carrying out orders with little to no consideration of the human life at stake.
Not an easy watch, but probably one of the most important Holocaust films to have been made since Schindler's List.
FINAL SAY: The life we enjoy is very much worth the sacrifice.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2023
Rating: M
Running Time: 105 mins
A Polish language, historical drama written and directed by Jonathon Glazer that is loosely based on the 2014 novel of the same name by Martin Amis. The Zone of Interest offers a unique and disturbing look into the life of a Nazi commandant and his family who reside in a home that is situated alongside of the Auschwitz concentration camp in 1943.
Rudolf Hoss and his wife Hedwig are happily raising their five children in a seemingly idyllic home, however, even the highest of fences cannot disguise the ugliness that lies just outside of their own backyard. As Hoss goes about his business as a commandant for the Auschwitz concentration camp next door, Hedwig gardens, oversees the running of the house (with her many servants) and enjoys the treasures that the Jewish prisoners leave behind. The family are seemingly unruffled by the gunshots, shouting, trains and furnaces that are constantly apparent just beyond the boundaries of their home.
It's the things that you don't see but know are going on that are the most affecting in this film. Watching people go about their everyday lives and chatting about the mundane whilst unspeakable horror is occurring just next door is so deeply unsettling. The sound design here is genius, constantly gnawing in the background of every shot like an ominous black cloud that you cannot ignore. And the actors are just incredible, with Sandra Huller and Cristian Friedel offering eerily cold portrayals of a young Nazi couple dutifully carrying out orders with little to no consideration of the human life at stake.
Not an easy watch, but probably one of the most important Holocaust films to have been made since Schindler's List.
FINAL SAY: The life we enjoy is very much worth the sacrifice.
4 Chilli Peppers
BLOOD AND GOLD
Release Date: 2023
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 98 mins
The Nazi's are terrorising another small village in this gory German language war film. Directed by Peter Thorwarth and distributed by Netflix, Blood and Gold comes on hard with explosive, fast paced chaos and violence that delivers a satisfying romp into the days belonging to the end of the second world war.
A group of blood thirsty Nazi's arrive in a small town searching for some hidden Jewish gold. When they start to slay the towns folk, it is up to a German deserter and a local woman to take a stand against their tyranny.
There are some great kills in this action packed movie, I mean who doesn't want to see some Nazi scum getting their comeuppances? Sure, it's not that ground breaking or original, but it does have an interesting enough storyline and it moves at a head spinning pace. The acting is also solid, with Marie Hacke and Robert Maaser shining as 'the army of good' and Alexander Scheer and Florian Schmidtke delivering convincingly devious Nazi behaviours as the 'heads of team evil'.
If you are looking for a quick, blood-soaked action thriller then look no further; this is what you are searching for.
FINAL SAY: I want him alive!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2023
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 98 mins
The Nazi's are terrorising another small village in this gory German language war film. Directed by Peter Thorwarth and distributed by Netflix, Blood and Gold comes on hard with explosive, fast paced chaos and violence that delivers a satisfying romp into the days belonging to the end of the second world war.
A group of blood thirsty Nazi's arrive in a small town searching for some hidden Jewish gold. When they start to slay the towns folk, it is up to a German deserter and a local woman to take a stand against their tyranny.
There are some great kills in this action packed movie, I mean who doesn't want to see some Nazi scum getting their comeuppances? Sure, it's not that ground breaking or original, but it does have an interesting enough storyline and it moves at a head spinning pace. The acting is also solid, with Marie Hacke and Robert Maaser shining as 'the army of good' and Alexander Scheer and Florian Schmidtke delivering convincingly devious Nazi behaviours as the 'heads of team evil'.
If you are looking for a quick, blood-soaked action thriller then look no further; this is what you are searching for.
FINAL SAY: I want him alive!
3 Chilli Peppers
THE KILLER
Release Date: 2023
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 118 mins
An action/crime thriller, directed by David Fincher and based on the French graphic novel series of the same title by Alexis 'Matz' Nolent, The Killer delivers a stylish and intriguing tale that is undeniably enjoyable.
After a hitman accidentally takes out the wrong target, he discovers that his blunder has almost cost his girlfriend her life. In retaliation, he goes on a vengeful killing spree, hellbent on eliminating anyone involved in her attack.
Michael Fassbender is dazzling as the unnamed, cooler than a cucumber, assassin and gives one of his best performances to date here. Like all Fincher films, the actions is exceptional, the acting is outstanding and the scenes are both seedy and beautifully orchestrated. Overall, this is a great watch that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
FINAL SAY: My process is purely logistical, narrowly focused by design.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2023
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 118 mins
An action/crime thriller, directed by David Fincher and based on the French graphic novel series of the same title by Alexis 'Matz' Nolent, The Killer delivers a stylish and intriguing tale that is undeniably enjoyable.
After a hitman accidentally takes out the wrong target, he discovers that his blunder has almost cost his girlfriend her life. In retaliation, he goes on a vengeful killing spree, hellbent on eliminating anyone involved in her attack.
Michael Fassbender is dazzling as the unnamed, cooler than a cucumber, assassin and gives one of his best performances to date here. Like all Fincher films, the actions is exceptional, the acting is outstanding and the scenes are both seedy and beautifully orchestrated. Overall, this is a great watch that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
FINAL SAY: My process is purely logistical, narrowly focused by design.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
SISU
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 91 mins
A brutal action thriller, written and directed by Jalmari Helander, and set in Finnish Lapland during World War II. With very little dialogue and a cast of Nordic unknowns, Sisu delivers something unique and unforgettable, albeit blood soaked and intensely violent.
It's 1944 and a solitary miner has struck it rich on the goldfields. Heading to a nearby town to cash in his yield, he encounters a groups of SS soldiers travelling in the opposite direction and has the misfortune of gaining their attentions.
The storyline is certainly thin on the ground here and at times it is also downright ridiculous; but Jorma Tommila carries this film to greater heights with his quiet and intense portrayal of Koshchel, the 'immortal' one-man death squad. He is easily the most die hard mo-fo to grace the screen in years. Watch it with an open mind, and just enjoy the ride.
FINAL SAY: We might have a problem!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 91 mins
A brutal action thriller, written and directed by Jalmari Helander, and set in Finnish Lapland during World War II. With very little dialogue and a cast of Nordic unknowns, Sisu delivers something unique and unforgettable, albeit blood soaked and intensely violent.
It's 1944 and a solitary miner has struck it rich on the goldfields. Heading to a nearby town to cash in his yield, he encounters a groups of SS soldiers travelling in the opposite direction and has the misfortune of gaining their attentions.
The storyline is certainly thin on the ground here and at times it is also downright ridiculous; but Jorma Tommila carries this film to greater heights with his quiet and intense portrayal of Koshchel, the 'immortal' one-man death squad. He is easily the most die hard mo-fo to grace the screen in years. Watch it with an open mind, and just enjoy the ride.
FINAL SAY: We might have a problem!
3 Chilli Peppers
ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 142 mins
An epic, German language, anti-war film based on the 1929 novel of the same name by Erich Maria Remarque. Directed by Edward Berger, this timeless retell of the classic 1930's adaptation packs a punch, both visually and emotionally, with its scathing critique of the idea of nationalism, control and power.
Three idealistic German soldiers head off to war in the spring of 1917. As they experience the realities and the traumas of war, their lives are shattered by the realisation that there are no heroes in war, only survivors.
All Quiet on the Western Front is a stand out war movie. It touches upon the desperation, the loneliness and the unrelenting chaos of war in the most unflinching ways. You will squirm, you will feel shocked and horrified and if you're anything like me you will probably cry a little too. There are a lot of big concepts and big emotions being dealt with here so don't expect an easy ride.
Felix Kammerer is incredible as Paul Baumer, the naïve German soldier that transitions from boy to killing machine in space of 2 hours. Kammerer convincingly delivers one of the most harrowing and disturbing roles of the year with startling believability.
All Quiet on the Western Front is easily one of my favourite movies of 2022.
FINAL SAY: What is a soldier without war?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 142 mins
An epic, German language, anti-war film based on the 1929 novel of the same name by Erich Maria Remarque. Directed by Edward Berger, this timeless retell of the classic 1930's adaptation packs a punch, both visually and emotionally, with its scathing critique of the idea of nationalism, control and power.
Three idealistic German soldiers head off to war in the spring of 1917. As they experience the realities and the traumas of war, their lives are shattered by the realisation that there are no heroes in war, only survivors.
All Quiet on the Western Front is a stand out war movie. It touches upon the desperation, the loneliness and the unrelenting chaos of war in the most unflinching ways. You will squirm, you will feel shocked and horrified and if you're anything like me you will probably cry a little too. There are a lot of big concepts and big emotions being dealt with here so don't expect an easy ride.
Felix Kammerer is incredible as Paul Baumer, the naïve German soldier that transitions from boy to killing machine in space of 2 hours. Kammerer convincingly delivers one of the most harrowing and disturbing roles of the year with startling believability.
All Quiet on the Western Front is easily one of my favourite movies of 2022.
FINAL SAY: What is a soldier without war?
4 Chilli Peppers
THE NORTHMAN
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 137 mins
An epic historical action-drama directed by Robert Eggers and based on the legend of Amieth; the Scandinavian tale that inspired William Shakespeare to write his famous tragedy Hamlet.
After witnessing the brutal slaying of his father as a boy, the young Viking Prince Amieth leaves him homeland and embarks on a quest, vowing to return one day to avenge his father and save his oppressed mother.
The violence warnings and buzz around this film made me believe that I was going to be seeing a vicious Viking bloodbath that I wouldn't be able to 'unsee' after the effect. And although yes, at times this film is clearly violent, given the subject material I actually thought that it was quite restrained in its delivery of the brutal time that it portrays without relying heavily on crass or unnecessary scenes of bloodshed.
What it does have in buckets is quality acting, incredible scenery and a haunting atmospheric soundtrack. Alexander Skarsgård is perfectly cast as Amieth, looking very comfortable and buff as hell portraying the fierce Viking prince. Nicole Kidman who plays his mother is the best that she has been in years and they are both very well supported with excellent acting from Ethan Hawke, William Dafoe and Anya Taylor-Joy.
It was great to see Bjork onscreen again as the Seeress and Ineta Sliuzaite as the Valkyrie, and although their total screen time was short, their presence was impossible to ignore.
FINAL SAY: I will avenge you, Father! I will save you, Mother! I will kill you, Fjölnir!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 137 mins
An epic historical action-drama directed by Robert Eggers and based on the legend of Amieth; the Scandinavian tale that inspired William Shakespeare to write his famous tragedy Hamlet.
After witnessing the brutal slaying of his father as a boy, the young Viking Prince Amieth leaves him homeland and embarks on a quest, vowing to return one day to avenge his father and save his oppressed mother.
The violence warnings and buzz around this film made me believe that I was going to be seeing a vicious Viking bloodbath that I wouldn't be able to 'unsee' after the effect. And although yes, at times this film is clearly violent, given the subject material I actually thought that it was quite restrained in its delivery of the brutal time that it portrays without relying heavily on crass or unnecessary scenes of bloodshed.
What it does have in buckets is quality acting, incredible scenery and a haunting atmospheric soundtrack. Alexander Skarsgård is perfectly cast as Amieth, looking very comfortable and buff as hell portraying the fierce Viking prince. Nicole Kidman who plays his mother is the best that she has been in years and they are both very well supported with excellent acting from Ethan Hawke, William Dafoe and Anya Taylor-Joy.
It was great to see Bjork onscreen again as the Seeress and Ineta Sliuzaite as the Valkyrie, and although their total screen time was short, their presence was impossible to ignore.
FINAL SAY: I will avenge you, Father! I will save you, Mother! I will kill you, Fjölnir!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE LAST DUEL
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 152 mins
An historical drama directed by Ridley Scott from a screenplay by Nicole Holofcener, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon that was based on the 2004 book The Last Duel: A True Story of Trial by Combat in Medieval France by Eric Jager. The Last Duel presents lavishly with high quality production value, good attention to historical detail and an interesting true story that had be glued to my seat right to the very end.
In medieval France, a knight named Sir Jean de Carrouges (Matt Damon) must challenge his former friend, squire Jacques Le Gris (Adam Driver) to a judicial duel after Jean's wife, Marguerite (Jodie Comer) accuses Jacques of raping her.
The story is revealed in three parts, one for each of the main three characters, offering perspective, interpretation and enhanced character development.
Driver and Comer are truly dazzling here, but it is Matt Damon who steals every scene that he is in, delivering something that is very unlike his previous acting efforts and doing it extremely well.
Historical dramas can be a bit hit and miss for me, but The Last Duel has just the right mix of action, intrigue and medieval madness to make it a winner in my books.
FINAL SAY: I say before all of you, I spoke the truth!
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 152 mins
An historical drama directed by Ridley Scott from a screenplay by Nicole Holofcener, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon that was based on the 2004 book The Last Duel: A True Story of Trial by Combat in Medieval France by Eric Jager. The Last Duel presents lavishly with high quality production value, good attention to historical detail and an interesting true story that had be glued to my seat right to the very end.
In medieval France, a knight named Sir Jean de Carrouges (Matt Damon) must challenge his former friend, squire Jacques Le Gris (Adam Driver) to a judicial duel after Jean's wife, Marguerite (Jodie Comer) accuses Jacques of raping her.
The story is revealed in three parts, one for each of the main three characters, offering perspective, interpretation and enhanced character development.
Driver and Comer are truly dazzling here, but it is Matt Damon who steals every scene that he is in, delivering something that is very unlike his previous acting efforts and doing it extremely well.
Historical dramas can be a bit hit and miss for me, but The Last Duel has just the right mix of action, intrigue and medieval madness to make it a winner in my books.
FINAL SAY: I say before all of you, I spoke the truth!
4 Chilli Peppers
ARMY OF THIEVES
Release Date: 2021
Rating: M
Running Time: 131 mins
A heist comedy/ action film, released on Netflix and directed by Matthias Schweighöfer from a screenplay by Shay Hatten. This film is actually the prequel to the 2021 zombie horror film Army of the Dead that was directed by Zack Snyder and for me, was far more interesting in every way.
Sebastian cracks safes in his spare time and posts YouTube clips about safes that no-one ever watches. That is until he receives a message about a safecracking competition which eventually leads him to meet the four people who will become his team in a series of dangerous and complicated bank heists.
I really wish that I had seen this film before I saw Army of the Dead, because I genuinely think that they would've played out better that way. If you haven't yet seen Army of the Dead, then I recommend that you watch this film first.
The characters are great but for a heist film, there does appear to be a shortage of key players and I did think that the majority of the team of five all could've used a little more screen time and development. However, it is very clear that this is essentially Matthias Schweighöfer's film through and through, since he not only directs but also plays the lead role of Sebastian as well, proving that he has presence both behind and in front of the camera. What this does mean is that his character is the only one that really feels fully fleshed out and this may bother some viewers but didn't worry me.
Army of Thieves is not exactly fresh or distinct when it comes to bank heist films but it does move fast, is very light on the zombies compared to it's predecessor (which horror haters will appreciate) and it has some of the most delightfully interesting safe mechanism scenes and stories, which may seem cheesy to some, but I actually really enjoyed.
Not a game changer but a bit of fun.
FINAL SAY: It's not just about the money, Brad. It's about the quest.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: M
Running Time: 131 mins
A heist comedy/ action film, released on Netflix and directed by Matthias Schweighöfer from a screenplay by Shay Hatten. This film is actually the prequel to the 2021 zombie horror film Army of the Dead that was directed by Zack Snyder and for me, was far more interesting in every way.
Sebastian cracks safes in his spare time and posts YouTube clips about safes that no-one ever watches. That is until he receives a message about a safecracking competition which eventually leads him to meet the four people who will become his team in a series of dangerous and complicated bank heists.
I really wish that I had seen this film before I saw Army of the Dead, because I genuinely think that they would've played out better that way. If you haven't yet seen Army of the Dead, then I recommend that you watch this film first.
The characters are great but for a heist film, there does appear to be a shortage of key players and I did think that the majority of the team of five all could've used a little more screen time and development. However, it is very clear that this is essentially Matthias Schweighöfer's film through and through, since he not only directs but also plays the lead role of Sebastian as well, proving that he has presence both behind and in front of the camera. What this does mean is that his character is the only one that really feels fully fleshed out and this may bother some viewers but didn't worry me.
Army of Thieves is not exactly fresh or distinct when it comes to bank heist films but it does move fast, is very light on the zombies compared to it's predecessor (which horror haters will appreciate) and it has some of the most delightfully interesting safe mechanism scenes and stories, which may seem cheesy to some, but I actually really enjoyed.
Not a game changer but a bit of fun.
FINAL SAY: It's not just about the money, Brad. It's about the quest.
3 Chilli Peppers
NOBODY
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 92 mins
An American action thriller directed by Ilya Naishuller and written by Derek Kolstad that delivers a short, sharp, action packed punch to the senses. It may not be breaking any new ground when it comes to storyline but it does deliver an enjoyable, violent romp that is strengthened greatly by Bob Odenkirk's fabulous delivery.
When seemingly average family man Hutch Mansell's house is broken to by a couple of armed thugs, he is happy to let them leave peacefully to preserve the wellbeing of his family. However, what the thieves don't know, is who Hutch Mansell really is and how their actions have now ignited a violent chain of events that no-one could have predicted.
The cast throughout is solid, with Connie Nielsen, Christopher Lloyd and Michael Ironside all delivering strong supports but this film is 100% Bob Odenkirk's and he plays Hutch Mansell with such a calm, cool disposition that he gives John Wick a run for his money. I had a lot of fun watching this, it's fast and it's amusing and it is just the right length for an action thriller.
FINAL SAY: Give me the goddamn kitty cat bracelet, motherfucker!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 92 mins
An American action thriller directed by Ilya Naishuller and written by Derek Kolstad that delivers a short, sharp, action packed punch to the senses. It may not be breaking any new ground when it comes to storyline but it does deliver an enjoyable, violent romp that is strengthened greatly by Bob Odenkirk's fabulous delivery.
When seemingly average family man Hutch Mansell's house is broken to by a couple of armed thugs, he is happy to let them leave peacefully to preserve the wellbeing of his family. However, what the thieves don't know, is who Hutch Mansell really is and how their actions have now ignited a violent chain of events that no-one could have predicted.
The cast throughout is solid, with Connie Nielsen, Christopher Lloyd and Michael Ironside all delivering strong supports but this film is 100% Bob Odenkirk's and he plays Hutch Mansell with such a calm, cool disposition that he gives John Wick a run for his money. I had a lot of fun watching this, it's fast and it's amusing and it is just the right length for an action thriller.
FINAL SAY: Give me the goddamn kitty cat bracelet, motherfucker!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 113 mins
An American crime thriller that was written, produced and directed by Emerald Fennell in her feature directorial debut. This boldly provocative thriller received generally favourable critical acclaim for it's dynamic writing and Carey Mulligan's committed and strong portrayal of a woman that has been wronged.
Cassie Thomas (Mulligan) is exacting her revenge upon the people that were involved in a vicious attack on her best friend and she is also taking down a few other douche bags along the way.
It's the terrific mix of dark humour and appallingly abhorrent assholes getting their comeuppances that makes this film so great. Mulligan is at her absolute best here as Cassie, a character that has tenacity and personality in bucket loads and it was just so fantastic to see a female delivering some kick arse vengeance in such colourful and unique ways.
The supporting cast are also strong here with Bo Burnham, Alison Brie, Laverne Cox and Clancy Brown all rounding out the story and making it something genuinely memorable and deeply affecting.
FINAL SAY: Can you guess what every woman's worst nightmare is?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 113 mins
An American crime thriller that was written, produced and directed by Emerald Fennell in her feature directorial debut. This boldly provocative thriller received generally favourable critical acclaim for it's dynamic writing and Carey Mulligan's committed and strong portrayal of a woman that has been wronged.
Cassie Thomas (Mulligan) is exacting her revenge upon the people that were involved in a vicious attack on her best friend and she is also taking down a few other douche bags along the way.
It's the terrific mix of dark humour and appallingly abhorrent assholes getting their comeuppances that makes this film so great. Mulligan is at her absolute best here as Cassie, a character that has tenacity and personality in bucket loads and it was just so fantastic to see a female delivering some kick arse vengeance in such colourful and unique ways.
The supporting cast are also strong here with Bo Burnham, Alison Brie, Laverne Cox and Clancy Brown all rounding out the story and making it something genuinely memorable and deeply affecting.
FINAL SAY: Can you guess what every woman's worst nightmare is?
4 Chilli Peppers
THE SURVIVOR
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 129 mins
A biographical drama film directed by Barry Levinson about a real-life survivor of the Auschwitz concentration camp. With harrowing depictions of the atrocities of war and a genuinely distressing story about the life of Harry Haft, a Jewish prisoner who is forced to box against his fellow inmates to survive, The Survivor is an unforgettable watch.
After being sent to Auschwitz, Harry Haft is forced to perform gladiatorial boxing spectacles for the entertainment of the German soldiers. Driven by the possibility of one day being re-united with the woman that he loves and was separated from because of the war, Harry endures unspeakable torment and goes on after the war to pursue a career as a professional boxer.
Based on the book, Harry Haft: Survivor of Auschwitz, Challenger of Rocky Marciano, this is a deeply affecting tale has an incredible performance from Ben Foster who play Harry Haft in a seriously striking and commanding way. I cried a couple of times whilst I watched this, both because of the unbearable suffering but also for the amazing spirit and hope of the main characters.
FINAL SAY: Are you the hammer or the anvil?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 129 mins
A biographical drama film directed by Barry Levinson about a real-life survivor of the Auschwitz concentration camp. With harrowing depictions of the atrocities of war and a genuinely distressing story about the life of Harry Haft, a Jewish prisoner who is forced to box against his fellow inmates to survive, The Survivor is an unforgettable watch.
After being sent to Auschwitz, Harry Haft is forced to perform gladiatorial boxing spectacles for the entertainment of the German soldiers. Driven by the possibility of one day being re-united with the woman that he loves and was separated from because of the war, Harry endures unspeakable torment and goes on after the war to pursue a career as a professional boxer.
Based on the book, Harry Haft: Survivor of Auschwitz, Challenger of Rocky Marciano, this is a deeply affecting tale has an incredible performance from Ben Foster who play Harry Haft in a seriously striking and commanding way. I cried a couple of times whilst I watched this, both because of the unbearable suffering but also for the amazing spirit and hope of the main characters.
FINAL SAY: Are you the hammer or the anvil?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
ENOLA HOLMES
Release Date: 2020
Rating: M
Running Time: 123 mins
A crime/mystery period film based on the first book in the series of the same name by Nancy Springer which focuses on the adventures of Enola Holmes, teenage sister of already famous crime investigator Sherlock Holmes. Enola Holmes was distributed by Netflix streaming services when they acquired the rights for distribution from Warner Bros. because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Raised to be carefree and headstrong by her free spirited mother, teenager Enola Holmes becomes distressed when her mother goes missing in the middle of the night without explanation. An attempt to enlist the help of her two older brothers Sherlock and Mycroft proves disastrous, so Enola takes matters into her own hands and sets off to discover what happened to her mother for herself.
I cannot deny that Millie Bobby Brown breathes some much needed fresh air into Baker Street with her effervescent and energic portrayal of Enola and she is definitely what makes this movie so delightful and enjoyable. She is however extremely well supported by Henry Cavill as Sherlock, Sam Claflin as Mycroft and Helena Bonham Carter as the mother of them all Eudoria Holmes.
There is an infectious and intoxicating teenage energy to this movie that I really loved and I do hope that we will get to see further instalments of this series in the future.
FINAL SAY: Sometimes you must dangle your feet in the water in order to attract the sharks.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2020
Rating: M
Running Time: 123 mins
A crime/mystery period film based on the first book in the series of the same name by Nancy Springer which focuses on the adventures of Enola Holmes, teenage sister of already famous crime investigator Sherlock Holmes. Enola Holmes was distributed by Netflix streaming services when they acquired the rights for distribution from Warner Bros. because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Raised to be carefree and headstrong by her free spirited mother, teenager Enola Holmes becomes distressed when her mother goes missing in the middle of the night without explanation. An attempt to enlist the help of her two older brothers Sherlock and Mycroft proves disastrous, so Enola takes matters into her own hands and sets off to discover what happened to her mother for herself.
I cannot deny that Millie Bobby Brown breathes some much needed fresh air into Baker Street with her effervescent and energic portrayal of Enola and she is definitely what makes this movie so delightful and enjoyable. She is however extremely well supported by Henry Cavill as Sherlock, Sam Claflin as Mycroft and Helena Bonham Carter as the mother of them all Eudoria Holmes.
There is an infectious and intoxicating teenage energy to this movie that I really loved and I do hope that we will get to see further instalments of this series in the future.
FINAL SAY: Sometimes you must dangle your feet in the water in order to attract the sharks.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
DA 5 BLOODS
Release Date: 2020
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 156 mins
An American war drama, co-written, directed and co-produced by Spike Lee and released on Netflix. Da 5 Bloods created a great deal of buzz and critic acclaim for it's direction, storyline, themes, cinematography and also for Delroy Lindo's explosive performance.
Four aging Vietnam war veterans return to Vietnam in search of the remains of their fallen squad leader - Stormin' Norman Earl Holloway. 'The Bloods' as they dubbed themselves are also hoping to recover a substantial gold treasure that they buried while they were stationed in Vietnam, which had been lost due to a Napalm strike.
There is a lot going on here, many would say too much and that's because Da 5 Bloods is not just a war film, it's also a friendship film, a father-son relationship film, a social and political film, an intellectual film and a history lesson all rolled into one. So yes, there may well be too many ideas being tossed around here but I still really enjoyed it.
The acting is really solid, the pace is fast and the tone is definitely original. At times the movie doesn't appear to take itself seriously at all and then other times it takes itself way too seriously and maybe that's what I liked about it because if nothing else, it's at least thought provoking.
FINAL SAY: After you've been in a war, you understand it never really ends.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2020
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 156 mins
An American war drama, co-written, directed and co-produced by Spike Lee and released on Netflix. Da 5 Bloods created a great deal of buzz and critic acclaim for it's direction, storyline, themes, cinematography and also for Delroy Lindo's explosive performance.
Four aging Vietnam war veterans return to Vietnam in search of the remains of their fallen squad leader - Stormin' Norman Earl Holloway. 'The Bloods' as they dubbed themselves are also hoping to recover a substantial gold treasure that they buried while they were stationed in Vietnam, which had been lost due to a Napalm strike.
There is a lot going on here, many would say too much and that's because Da 5 Bloods is not just a war film, it's also a friendship film, a father-son relationship film, a social and political film, an intellectual film and a history lesson all rolled into one. So yes, there may well be too many ideas being tossed around here but I still really enjoyed it.
The acting is really solid, the pace is fast and the tone is definitely original. At times the movie doesn't appear to take itself seriously at all and then other times it takes itself way too seriously and maybe that's what I liked about it because if nothing else, it's at least thought provoking.
FINAL SAY: After you've been in a war, you understand it never really ends.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
DEADWOOD: THE MOVIE
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 110 mins
Fans of the original Deadwood television series will rejoice over this film because the original ensemble cast is finally back together again as the residents of Deadwood gather to commemorate Dakota's statehood in 1889. Directed by Daniel Minahan and written by David Milch for HBO, this long awaited western gem delivers some satisfying closure for fans without compromising on the excellence that we have all come to expect from the television series.
Some fifteen years on from where the original series left off, we return again to Deadwood, an American town steeped in corruption, secrets and unscrupulous characters. The characters may have gotten older but some things still haven't changed as the residents continue to struggle with George Hearst's devious and strong armed attempts to take over the land and control of Deadwood.
This film was clearly made for the fans and although it is heavily steeped in sentimentality, I still loved it. Timothy Olyphant and Ian McShane deliver powerhouse performances that are consistent and plausible to the previous character developments, and as far as closure goes, this movie is second to none. Deadwood: The Movie is visually and emotionally satisfying in every way and a perfect farewell to the residents of Deadwood.
FINAL SAY: We're all of us haunted by our own fucking thoughts.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 110 mins
Fans of the original Deadwood television series will rejoice over this film because the original ensemble cast is finally back together again as the residents of Deadwood gather to commemorate Dakota's statehood in 1889. Directed by Daniel Minahan and written by David Milch for HBO, this long awaited western gem delivers some satisfying closure for fans without compromising on the excellence that we have all come to expect from the television series.
Some fifteen years on from where the original series left off, we return again to Deadwood, an American town steeped in corruption, secrets and unscrupulous characters. The characters may have gotten older but some things still haven't changed as the residents continue to struggle with George Hearst's devious and strong armed attempts to take over the land and control of Deadwood.
This film was clearly made for the fans and although it is heavily steeped in sentimentality, I still loved it. Timothy Olyphant and Ian McShane deliver powerhouse performances that are consistent and plausible to the previous character developments, and as far as closure goes, this movie is second to none. Deadwood: The Movie is visually and emotionally satisfying in every way and a perfect farewell to the residents of Deadwood.
FINAL SAY: We're all of us haunted by our own fucking thoughts.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE GENTLEMEN
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 113 mins
Director Guy Ritchie goes back to his gangster movie roots with his latest offering The Gentlemen. In true cockney screwball fashion, we again find ourselves thrown into the underworld of British crime with tonnes of seedy, colourful characters and another deeply convoluted and looping storyline.
Mickey Pearson is a well known American marijuana kingpin in England who is looking to sell his cannabis empire for a handsome price. However a variety of rich, influential and shady characters are attempting to undermine him behind his back in an attempt to bring down the cost of his business.
Although amusing, I don't think that this is as good as Ritchie's early gangster offerings like Snatch or Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, but it is still a completely fun and entertaining watch. Hugh Grant, Colin Farrell, Charlie Hunnam, Henry Golding and Matthew McConaughey are genuinely great here and definitely elevate the script with their razor sharp delivery of their seriously flawed and exaggerated characters.
As far as fast paced, cockney crime-comedies go, this is a really enjoyable watch and a must see for Guy Ritchie fans that have been waiting for him to deliver another quality gangster movie.
FINAL SAY: If you wish to be The King of the jungle, it's not enough to act like a king. You must be The King.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 113 mins
Director Guy Ritchie goes back to his gangster movie roots with his latest offering The Gentlemen. In true cockney screwball fashion, we again find ourselves thrown into the underworld of British crime with tonnes of seedy, colourful characters and another deeply convoluted and looping storyline.
Mickey Pearson is a well known American marijuana kingpin in England who is looking to sell his cannabis empire for a handsome price. However a variety of rich, influential and shady characters are attempting to undermine him behind his back in an attempt to bring down the cost of his business.
Although amusing, I don't think that this is as good as Ritchie's early gangster offerings like Snatch or Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, but it is still a completely fun and entertaining watch. Hugh Grant, Colin Farrell, Charlie Hunnam, Henry Golding and Matthew McConaughey are genuinely great here and definitely elevate the script with their razor sharp delivery of their seriously flawed and exaggerated characters.
As far as fast paced, cockney crime-comedies go, this is a really enjoyable watch and a must see for Guy Ritchie fans that have been waiting for him to deliver another quality gangster movie.
FINAL SAY: If you wish to be The King of the jungle, it's not enough to act like a king. You must be The King.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
UNCUT GEMS
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 135 mins
Another excellent crime drama from Josh and Benny Safdie, who again co-wrote the screenplay with Ronald Bronstein. Uncut Gems offers an intense and gritty energy that we can now safely associate with Safdie directed films, and Adam Sandler who plays the lead role of Howard Ratner is at his absolute best here in what can only be described as a tight, seedy exploration of a very grimy character.
Howard Ratner is a Jewish jewellery dealer with a gambling addiction. He comes into possession of a rare uncut black opal that he believes will be the answer to his many and varied problems, but the gem proves to be much more than just a solution to Howard's already overly complicated world.
Fast paced and at times exhausting to watch, the life of Howard Ratner is an unholy mess and a complex tangle of poorly made deals and crappy life choices, and it is absolutely riveting. As I watched Uncut Gems I felt like I had no way of predicting how the film was going to end due to the sheer amount of separate threads that interweave themselves into the tale as we follow Howard on his journey. This is what good crime thrillers should look and feel like, and now I can't wait to see more Safdie directed movies in the future.
FINAL SAY: That's a million-dollar opal that you're holding. Straight from the Ethiopian Jewish tribe.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 135 mins
Another excellent crime drama from Josh and Benny Safdie, who again co-wrote the screenplay with Ronald Bronstein. Uncut Gems offers an intense and gritty energy that we can now safely associate with Safdie directed films, and Adam Sandler who plays the lead role of Howard Ratner is at his absolute best here in what can only be described as a tight, seedy exploration of a very grimy character.
Howard Ratner is a Jewish jewellery dealer with a gambling addiction. He comes into possession of a rare uncut black opal that he believes will be the answer to his many and varied problems, but the gem proves to be much more than just a solution to Howard's already overly complicated world.
Fast paced and at times exhausting to watch, the life of Howard Ratner is an unholy mess and a complex tangle of poorly made deals and crappy life choices, and it is absolutely riveting. As I watched Uncut Gems I felt like I had no way of predicting how the film was going to end due to the sheer amount of separate threads that interweave themselves into the tale as we follow Howard on his journey. This is what good crime thrillers should look and feel like, and now I can't wait to see more Safdie directed movies in the future.
FINAL SAY: That's a million-dollar opal that you're holding. Straight from the Ethiopian Jewish tribe.
4 Chilli Peppers
1917
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 119 mins
A war epic; directed, co-written and produced by Sam Mendes, and easily his most prolific and immersive movie thus far. 1917 received great acclaim and praise for its impressive technical achievements and intensely realistic depictions of trench warfare during World War I.
In April 1917, two young British soldiers, Blake and Schofield, are sent on a mission to hand-deliver a message to the Second battalion of the Devonshire Regiment. The order calls for the men to stand down with their planned attack on the Germans. To go through with the attack would cost the lives of 1,600 men, including Blake's brother Joseph, so their timely arrival is imperative, but the journey through enemy territory to deliver that message is fraught with danger and peril.
Atmospheric is an understatement here, this film is an experience, a fully immersive experience that will leave you breathless from beginning to end. George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman are fantastic as the two soldiers who have been thrown together on what can only be described, upon first look, as a suicide mission. Their bravery and loyalty throughout the film is both inspiring and so deeply moving, I actually cried a couple of times when I saw this at the cinema. And considering that the camera stays with the two soldiers from the very first frame to the last, as if unfolding in one long take, you feel like you are actually right along side of them, on this very treacherous ride, all of the way to the very end.
1917 is staggeringly good and completely unmissable, and probably the best war movie that I have ever seen.
FINAL SAY: Down to Gehenna or up to the throne...he travels fastest who travels alone.
5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 119 mins
A war epic; directed, co-written and produced by Sam Mendes, and easily his most prolific and immersive movie thus far. 1917 received great acclaim and praise for its impressive technical achievements and intensely realistic depictions of trench warfare during World War I.
In April 1917, two young British soldiers, Blake and Schofield, are sent on a mission to hand-deliver a message to the Second battalion of the Devonshire Regiment. The order calls for the men to stand down with their planned attack on the Germans. To go through with the attack would cost the lives of 1,600 men, including Blake's brother Joseph, so their timely arrival is imperative, but the journey through enemy territory to deliver that message is fraught with danger and peril.
Atmospheric is an understatement here, this film is an experience, a fully immersive experience that will leave you breathless from beginning to end. George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman are fantastic as the two soldiers who have been thrown together on what can only be described, upon first look, as a suicide mission. Their bravery and loyalty throughout the film is both inspiring and so deeply moving, I actually cried a couple of times when I saw this at the cinema. And considering that the camera stays with the two soldiers from the very first frame to the last, as if unfolding in one long take, you feel like you are actually right along side of them, on this very treacherous ride, all of the way to the very end.
1917 is staggeringly good and completely unmissable, and probably the best war movie that I have ever seen.
FINAL SAY: Down to Gehenna or up to the throne...he travels fastest who travels alone.
5 Chilli Peppers
THE IRISHMAN
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 210 mins
An epic crime drama directed and produced by Martin Scorsese and written by Steven Zaillian who based it on the 2004 book I Heard You Paint Houses by Charlie Brandt. The Irishman was the movie that Scorsese was always going to make, well at least that's how it felt to me. It is a complete nod to all of his previous gangster movies and yet, it delivers something deeply contemplative, reflective and far more refined by portraying the gangsters in their twilight years.
Frank Sheeran, a once humble hard working truck driver becomes a hitman for Russell Bufalino and his associated crime family. Frank recalls and reflects on his gangster exploits and relationship with the powerful and influential figurehead Jimmy Hoffa.
Drenched with accolades and acclaim for it's creative storytelling, amazing de-aging digital effects and powerhouse cast, The Irishman gained lots of attention and swiftly became the 'must see' movie of 2019.
Robert De Niro is exceptionally good as Sheeran and Al Pacino is virtually unrecognisable and completely on point as Jimmy Hoffa, but honestly, I felt that Joe Pesci completely stole the show here. Pesci gives one of the best and most engaging performance of his career as Russell Bufalino, proving that the toughest of tough guys can definitely come in small and very formidable packages.
I am anticipating a lot of Oscar buzz around this film, and although it wasn't my favourite Scorsese offering, it's undeniably a mighty fine piece of cinema.
FINAL SAY: What kind of man makes a call like that?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 210 mins
An epic crime drama directed and produced by Martin Scorsese and written by Steven Zaillian who based it on the 2004 book I Heard You Paint Houses by Charlie Brandt. The Irishman was the movie that Scorsese was always going to make, well at least that's how it felt to me. It is a complete nod to all of his previous gangster movies and yet, it delivers something deeply contemplative, reflective and far more refined by portraying the gangsters in their twilight years.
Frank Sheeran, a once humble hard working truck driver becomes a hitman for Russell Bufalino and his associated crime family. Frank recalls and reflects on his gangster exploits and relationship with the powerful and influential figurehead Jimmy Hoffa.
Drenched with accolades and acclaim for it's creative storytelling, amazing de-aging digital effects and powerhouse cast, The Irishman gained lots of attention and swiftly became the 'must see' movie of 2019.
Robert De Niro is exceptionally good as Sheeran and Al Pacino is virtually unrecognisable and completely on point as Jimmy Hoffa, but honestly, I felt that Joe Pesci completely stole the show here. Pesci gives one of the best and most engaging performance of his career as Russell Bufalino, proving that the toughest of tough guys can definitely come in small and very formidable packages.
I am anticipating a lot of Oscar buzz around this film, and although it wasn't my favourite Scorsese offering, it's undeniably a mighty fine piece of cinema.
FINAL SAY: What kind of man makes a call like that?
4 Chilli Peppers
THE KING
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA
Running Time: 140 mins
Every now and then a movie comes along that you really believe should have gotten a lot more attention than it did; The King is one of those films for me. Perfectly realised and beautifully acted, this biography/ war/ historical drama directed by David Michôd had me completely gripped for the duration.
Hal, a wayward prince who is heir to the English throne reluctantly becomes the next King when his father passes away. Crowned King Henry V, young Hal must navigate the pitfall, politics and responsibilities that come with his new title, all the while trying to discern whom he can completely trust within his own castle walls.
Seriously, when is Timothée Chalamet going to get an Oscar? He is so talented and has such a riveting onscreen presence; it is surely only a matter of time. Joel Edgerton, who co-wrote the movie with Michôd, is also excellent here as Falstaff, the King's long term friend and ally, and Robert Patterson also shines as the snooty French Dauphin.
This is a stylish, interesting and at times intense watch that shines a light on the realities and brutalities of early power battles and the heavy burden felt by the crown.
FINAL SAY: A King has no friends. Only followers and foe.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA
Running Time: 140 mins
Every now and then a movie comes along that you really believe should have gotten a lot more attention than it did; The King is one of those films for me. Perfectly realised and beautifully acted, this biography/ war/ historical drama directed by David Michôd had me completely gripped for the duration.
Hal, a wayward prince who is heir to the English throne reluctantly becomes the next King when his father passes away. Crowned King Henry V, young Hal must navigate the pitfall, politics and responsibilities that come with his new title, all the while trying to discern whom he can completely trust within his own castle walls.
Seriously, when is Timothée Chalamet going to get an Oscar? He is so talented and has such a riveting onscreen presence; it is surely only a matter of time. Joel Edgerton, who co-wrote the movie with Michôd, is also excellent here as Falstaff, the King's long term friend and ally, and Robert Patterson also shines as the snooty French Dauphin.
This is a stylish, interesting and at times intense watch that shines a light on the realities and brutalities of early power battles and the heavy burden felt by the crown.
FINAL SAY: A King has no friends. Only followers and foe.
4 Chilli Peppers
KNIVES OUT
Release Date: 2019
Rating: M
Running Time: 130 mins
An American murder mystery film; written, produced and directed by Rian Johnson. Knives out delivers a modern take on the classic whodunnit style of crime movies, and with all of the intrigue of an Agatha Christie tale and twice as much wit as any Hercule Poirot mystery, it's a winner on so many levels.
Wealthy crime novelist Harlan Thrombey invites his family around to celebrate his 85th birthday, and then turns up dead the very next morning. Detective Benoit Blanc arrives on the scene to investigate the death and determine whether there has been any foul play. However, the further that he investigates, the quicker that he discovers how deceitful and manipulative the Thrombey family actually are.
The stellar ensemble cast are simply flawless here and delivering on all notes. Christopher Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Toni Collette, Lakeith Stanfield and Christopher Plummer all shine in their various roles and really add extra levity to this very clever and genuinely interesting script. Daniel Craig is absolutely hilarious as private detective Blanc; his perfectly raised brows, southern drawl and pouty disposition really amused me throughout, and he does appear to be enjoying himself in this role. Ana de Armas brings a fresh face to this cast of heavy weights and she stand up well amidst them all as Harlan's beautiful nurse Marta.
This is such a crowd pleasing throwback to murder mysteries of days gone by and just a total pleasure to watch from start to end.
FINAL SAY: I suspect foul play. I have eliminated no suspects.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Note: The 2022 release Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery reboots our favourite Southern detective Benoit Blanc for a brand new mystery and it is every bit as good (dare I say better?) than the first offering. With an incredible ensemble cast and a sharp new script, Glass Onion delivers a highly entertaining mystery watch that shouldn't be missed.
Release Date: 2019
Rating: M
Running Time: 130 mins
An American murder mystery film; written, produced and directed by Rian Johnson. Knives out delivers a modern take on the classic whodunnit style of crime movies, and with all of the intrigue of an Agatha Christie tale and twice as much wit as any Hercule Poirot mystery, it's a winner on so many levels.
Wealthy crime novelist Harlan Thrombey invites his family around to celebrate his 85th birthday, and then turns up dead the very next morning. Detective Benoit Blanc arrives on the scene to investigate the death and determine whether there has been any foul play. However, the further that he investigates, the quicker that he discovers how deceitful and manipulative the Thrombey family actually are.
The stellar ensemble cast are simply flawless here and delivering on all notes. Christopher Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Toni Collette, Lakeith Stanfield and Christopher Plummer all shine in their various roles and really add extra levity to this very clever and genuinely interesting script. Daniel Craig is absolutely hilarious as private detective Blanc; his perfectly raised brows, southern drawl and pouty disposition really amused me throughout, and he does appear to be enjoying himself in this role. Ana de Armas brings a fresh face to this cast of heavy weights and she stand up well amidst them all as Harlan's beautiful nurse Marta.
This is such a crowd pleasing throwback to murder mysteries of days gone by and just a total pleasure to watch from start to end.
FINAL SAY: I suspect foul play. I have eliminated no suspects.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Note: The 2022 release Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery reboots our favourite Southern detective Benoit Blanc for a brand new mystery and it is every bit as good (dare I say better?) than the first offering. With an incredible ensemble cast and a sharp new script, Glass Onion delivers a highly entertaining mystery watch that shouldn't be missed.
EL CAMINO: A BREAKING BAD MOVIE
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 124 mins
A crime thriller that serves as an epilogue to the juggernaut television series Breaking Bad, and a genuine treat for fans of the TV series that concluded in 2013. Written, directed and produced by Vince Gilligan, who also created the television series, the movie serves to deepen our understanding of what happened to Jesse Pinkman around the events that immediately followed the series finale.
Through several flashbacks of Jesse Pinkman's life in captivity as a meth cook for the Brotherhood, we come to understand how he eventually escaped and what occurred after he gained his freedom that allowed him to invent a new life for himself.
I really enjoyed the return to the Breaking Bad world that El Camino offered, and Aaron Paul who was always a favourite of mine in the series is still just as entertaining as Pinkman this time around.
I'd be lying if I said that this was essential viewing, but for fans of the TV series, it's pretty much unmissable and delivers a sharp modern crime/western that will completely satisfy.
FINAL SAY: You didn't have to wait your whole life to do something special.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 124 mins
A crime thriller that serves as an epilogue to the juggernaut television series Breaking Bad, and a genuine treat for fans of the TV series that concluded in 2013. Written, directed and produced by Vince Gilligan, who also created the television series, the movie serves to deepen our understanding of what happened to Jesse Pinkman around the events that immediately followed the series finale.
Through several flashbacks of Jesse Pinkman's life in captivity as a meth cook for the Brotherhood, we come to understand how he eventually escaped and what occurred after he gained his freedom that allowed him to invent a new life for himself.
I really enjoyed the return to the Breaking Bad world that El Camino offered, and Aaron Paul who was always a favourite of mine in the series is still just as entertaining as Pinkman this time around.
I'd be lying if I said that this was essential viewing, but for fans of the TV series, it's pretty much unmissable and delivers a sharp modern crime/western that will completely satisfy.
FINAL SAY: You didn't have to wait your whole life to do something special.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 161 mins
A crime/ drama and at times an exceptionally dark comedy, Once Upon a Time In Hollywood is Quentin Tarantino's brilliantly executed homage to the end of The Golden Age of Hollywood. With a massive ensemble cast and multiple storylines, this is a fairy tale retell of the days surrounding the brutal Sharon Tate murders by the Manson cult that occurred in 1969. Unlike other Tarantino movies, this film demonstrates more restraint around the levels of on screen graphic gore and violence...well...mostly, there are still some intense graphic scenes to experience here, but it is Tarantino and we have all come to expect some shock violence from his films.
Fading Western television star Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his best friend and stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) encounter colourful and controversial characters as they try to maneuver Dalton out of Hollywood 'Has-Been' oblivion and back into the limelight with the help of spaghetti westerns and Hollywood opportunities.
No late '60's stone goes unturned here, with everything from The Playboy Mansion and Roman Polanski to Bruce Lee and Charles Manson getting a look in. And it all mishmashes together into one terrifically enjoyable old pop culture tribute that I completely adored. I was riveted for the duration and grateful to see something so refreshingly new at the cinema again.
DiCaprio and Pitt are not only on their A game but they are having a lot of fun with this already witty script. The cast is absolutely massive; Tarantino has again used Zoe Bell and Kurt Russell well, but has also added some fresh new faces to his cast list with notable performances from Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate, Lena Dunham as Gypsy, Dakota Fanning as Squeaky Fromme, Bruce Dern as George Spahn and stealing some hard to grab attention from everyone else was newcomer Julia Butters playing the wise western star child Trudi.
This is not my favourite Tarantino offering, but I cannot deny that it is one of his best, and it is definitely the best thing that I have seen at the cinema so far this year.
FINAL SAY: It's official, old buddy. I'm a has-been.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 161 mins
A crime/ drama and at times an exceptionally dark comedy, Once Upon a Time In Hollywood is Quentin Tarantino's brilliantly executed homage to the end of The Golden Age of Hollywood. With a massive ensemble cast and multiple storylines, this is a fairy tale retell of the days surrounding the brutal Sharon Tate murders by the Manson cult that occurred in 1969. Unlike other Tarantino movies, this film demonstrates more restraint around the levels of on screen graphic gore and violence...well...mostly, there are still some intense graphic scenes to experience here, but it is Tarantino and we have all come to expect some shock violence from his films.
Fading Western television star Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his best friend and stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) encounter colourful and controversial characters as they try to maneuver Dalton out of Hollywood 'Has-Been' oblivion and back into the limelight with the help of spaghetti westerns and Hollywood opportunities.
No late '60's stone goes unturned here, with everything from The Playboy Mansion and Roman Polanski to Bruce Lee and Charles Manson getting a look in. And it all mishmashes together into one terrifically enjoyable old pop culture tribute that I completely adored. I was riveted for the duration and grateful to see something so refreshingly new at the cinema again.
DiCaprio and Pitt are not only on their A game but they are having a lot of fun with this already witty script. The cast is absolutely massive; Tarantino has again used Zoe Bell and Kurt Russell well, but has also added some fresh new faces to his cast list with notable performances from Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate, Lena Dunham as Gypsy, Dakota Fanning as Squeaky Fromme, Bruce Dern as George Spahn and stealing some hard to grab attention from everyone else was newcomer Julia Butters playing the wise western star child Trudi.
This is not my favourite Tarantino offering, but I cannot deny that it is one of his best, and it is definitely the best thing that I have seen at the cinema so far this year.
FINAL SAY: It's official, old buddy. I'm a has-been.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
DANGER CLOSE: THE BATTLE OF LONG TAN
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 118 mins
An Australian war film, directed by Kriv Stenders, about the Battle of Long Tan during the Vietnam War. With the odds stacked greatly against the ANZAC soldiers, this film plays out more like a survival film than a battle and certainly demonstrates the courage and camaraderie that the ANZAC's have since become known for.
It's 1966 and in a dense rubber plantation called Long Tan in Vietnam, 108 young and relatively inexperienced Australian and New Zealand soldiers fight for their lives against 2,500 Nth Vietnamese and Viet Cong soldiers.
There's no denying that this true life tale will have you dodging bullets and rooting for the underdog throughout, and what it lacks in storyline it certainly makes up for in heart and determination. Travis Fimmel delivers well as Major Harry Smith and he is well supported by a pretty tight and reasonably convincing Aussie and New Zealand cast.
Not all war stories deserve a movie to be made about them but The Battle of Long Tan most certainly does, and I am really glad that I had the opportunity to understand the plight of the men that lost their lives at Long Tan from seeing this film.
FINAL SAY: There's a thousand ways to die in a war zone.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 118 mins
An Australian war film, directed by Kriv Stenders, about the Battle of Long Tan during the Vietnam War. With the odds stacked greatly against the ANZAC soldiers, this film plays out more like a survival film than a battle and certainly demonstrates the courage and camaraderie that the ANZAC's have since become known for.
It's 1966 and in a dense rubber plantation called Long Tan in Vietnam, 108 young and relatively inexperienced Australian and New Zealand soldiers fight for their lives against 2,500 Nth Vietnamese and Viet Cong soldiers.
There's no denying that this true life tale will have you dodging bullets and rooting for the underdog throughout, and what it lacks in storyline it certainly makes up for in heart and determination. Travis Fimmel delivers well as Major Harry Smith and he is well supported by a pretty tight and reasonably convincing Aussie and New Zealand cast.
Not all war stories deserve a movie to be made about them but The Battle of Long Tan most certainly does, and I am really glad that I had the opportunity to understand the plight of the men that lost their lives at Long Tan from seeing this film.
FINAL SAY: There's a thousand ways to die in a war zone.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
AMERICAN ANIMALS
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 117 mins
Based on the real life library heist at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky in 2004, this film switches between dramatisations of the actual event and interviews with the real people being portrayed, which generates a really interesting and ingenious perspective on this tangled and complex tale about four small time criminals out to make a quick buck.
Art student Spencer and rebellious athletic scholarship student Warren hatch a 'get rich quick' plan that involves heisting two very valuable editions of John James Audubon's The Birds of America from the rare book section of the Transylvania University library. They enlist the help of their childhood friend Erik to assist with logistics and rich kid Chas to act as the getaway driver, and together they attempt a million dollar heist in broad daylight.
This is one of those 'truth is stranger than fiction' tales, where you just cannot understand how these not really bad boys allowed themselves to get swept up in something that is so very bad and insanely stupid. The cast is magnificent and completely on point here, with exceptionally strong performances from the always enigmatic Evan Peters, the strangely hypnotic Barry Keoghan and the most reputable Ann Dowd.
Watching American Animals is a bit like watching a car crash in slow motion, you know it isn't going to end well but you just can't look away! It's genuinely intriguing and cringe worthy viewing.
FINAL SAY: In reality, those things... don't matter. And you're not special.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 117 mins
Based on the real life library heist at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky in 2004, this film switches between dramatisations of the actual event and interviews with the real people being portrayed, which generates a really interesting and ingenious perspective on this tangled and complex tale about four small time criminals out to make a quick buck.
Art student Spencer and rebellious athletic scholarship student Warren hatch a 'get rich quick' plan that involves heisting two very valuable editions of John James Audubon's The Birds of America from the rare book section of the Transylvania University library. They enlist the help of their childhood friend Erik to assist with logistics and rich kid Chas to act as the getaway driver, and together they attempt a million dollar heist in broad daylight.
This is one of those 'truth is stranger than fiction' tales, where you just cannot understand how these not really bad boys allowed themselves to get swept up in something that is so very bad and insanely stupid. The cast is magnificent and completely on point here, with exceptionally strong performances from the always enigmatic Evan Peters, the strangely hypnotic Barry Keoghan and the most reputable Ann Dowd.
Watching American Animals is a bit like watching a car crash in slow motion, you know it isn't going to end well but you just can't look away! It's genuinely intriguing and cringe worthy viewing.
FINAL SAY: In reality, those things... don't matter. And you're not special.
4 Chilli Peppers
SEARCHING
Release Date: 2018
Rating: M
Running Time: 102 mins
An American crime thriller, directed by Aneesh Chaganty, that has been shot from the point-of-view of smartphones and computer screens. Searching brings a welcomed new perspective to the crime and investigation genre through innovative and realistic avenues that I believe will appeal to a wide audience.
When David Kim's (David Cho) 16 year old daughter goes missing he uses his knowledge of the internet, technology and social media as a means to track her down.
It's been a while since I've seen a movie with this many twists and turns, and the ongoing dilemmas certainly do keep you on the edge of your seat right up to the end reveal. Yes, I said the end reveal, there are no loose ends to wrangle with here, all questions are answered, which will make this film even more appealing to the general public.
David Cho really has a knack for being convincingly concerned onscreen and he plays the traumatized father with a deeply believable conviction; equally Debra Messing is great as Detective Vick and it was pleasing to see her in a big screen feature.
For a crime thriller, this is a solid watch that is definitely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: I didn't know her. I didn't know my daughter.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: M
Running Time: 102 mins
An American crime thriller, directed by Aneesh Chaganty, that has been shot from the point-of-view of smartphones and computer screens. Searching brings a welcomed new perspective to the crime and investigation genre through innovative and realistic avenues that I believe will appeal to a wide audience.
When David Kim's (David Cho) 16 year old daughter goes missing he uses his knowledge of the internet, technology and social media as a means to track her down.
It's been a while since I've seen a movie with this many twists and turns, and the ongoing dilemmas certainly do keep you on the edge of your seat right up to the end reveal. Yes, I said the end reveal, there are no loose ends to wrangle with here, all questions are answered, which will make this film even more appealing to the general public.
David Cho really has a knack for being convincingly concerned onscreen and he plays the traumatized father with a deeply believable conviction; equally Debra Messing is great as Detective Vick and it was pleasing to see her in a big screen feature.
For a crime thriller, this is a solid watch that is definitely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: I didn't know her. I didn't know my daughter.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
OCEAN'S 8
Release Date: 2018
Rating: M
Running Time: 111 mins
A spin-off of Steven Soderbergh's Ocean's trilogy and proof that women can do heist comedies just as well as the men can. Ocean's 8 is directed by Gary Ross and written by Ross and Olivia Milch and offers viewers an easy 'feel good' ride with an entertaining all star cast.
Debbie Ocean, younger sister of the late Danny Ocean, gets paroled and plans a once in a lifetime heist that involves stealing a $150 million dollar Cartier necklace. To pull it all off, Debbie will require the assistance of a team of eight female criminals.
The cast in this is just dynamite and the onscreen chemistry of the lead actresses is what really carries this film. Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Rihanna, Awkwafina and Helena Bonham Carter join forces perfectly as the eight criminal masterminds, and although the storyline fails to brings anything new to the table, I still thought that Ocean's 8 was a more than watchable 'chick flick' experience.
FINAL SAY: You would've loved it.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: M
Running Time: 111 mins
A spin-off of Steven Soderbergh's Ocean's trilogy and proof that women can do heist comedies just as well as the men can. Ocean's 8 is directed by Gary Ross and written by Ross and Olivia Milch and offers viewers an easy 'feel good' ride with an entertaining all star cast.
Debbie Ocean, younger sister of the late Danny Ocean, gets paroled and plans a once in a lifetime heist that involves stealing a $150 million dollar Cartier necklace. To pull it all off, Debbie will require the assistance of a team of eight female criminals.
The cast in this is just dynamite and the onscreen chemistry of the lead actresses is what really carries this film. Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Rihanna, Awkwafina and Helena Bonham Carter join forces perfectly as the eight criminal masterminds, and although the storyline fails to brings anything new to the table, I still thought that Ocean's 8 was a more than watchable 'chick flick' experience.
FINAL SAY: You would've loved it.
3 Chilli Peppers
GOOD TIME
Release Date: 2017
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 101 mins
A crime drama directed by Ben and Josh Safdie and written by Josh Safdie and Ronald Bronstein that was nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. Good Time is a visually unique and gritty ride that pushes the boundaries of love and commitment.
Connie (Robert Pattinson) and his intellectually disabled brother Nick (Ben Safdie) find themselves on the run after their attempt at a bank robbery goes terribly wrong. After Nick is arrested, Connie desperately tries to gather enough collateral to bail him out, which becomes one long night filled with nightmarish complications.
This is Robert Pattinson's movie all the way, he is tremendously good as the devoted and desperate brother Connie, showing us more acting chops than the Twilight series ever allowed him to demonstrate. Ben Safdie and Jennifer Jason Leigh also bring strength to this tightly wound script, but Pattinson just outshines everyone with his powerhouse effort.
The soundtrack and cinematography are really interesting and engaging, and although Good Time seems to be teetering on the edge of gritty and art house, it never loses sight of it's clear message about loyalty and love.
FINAL SAY: I think something very important is happening and it's deeply connected to my purpose.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 101 mins
A crime drama directed by Ben and Josh Safdie and written by Josh Safdie and Ronald Bronstein that was nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. Good Time is a visually unique and gritty ride that pushes the boundaries of love and commitment.
Connie (Robert Pattinson) and his intellectually disabled brother Nick (Ben Safdie) find themselves on the run after their attempt at a bank robbery goes terribly wrong. After Nick is arrested, Connie desperately tries to gather enough collateral to bail him out, which becomes one long night filled with nightmarish complications.
This is Robert Pattinson's movie all the way, he is tremendously good as the devoted and desperate brother Connie, showing us more acting chops than the Twilight series ever allowed him to demonstrate. Ben Safdie and Jennifer Jason Leigh also bring strength to this tightly wound script, but Pattinson just outshines everyone with his powerhouse effort.
The soundtrack and cinematography are really interesting and engaging, and although Good Time seems to be teetering on the edge of gritty and art house, it never loses sight of it's clear message about loyalty and love.
FINAL SAY: I think something very important is happening and it's deeply connected to my purpose.
4 Chilli Peppers
LOGAN LUCKY
Release Date: 2017
Rating: M
Running Time: 118 mins
A heist comedy directed by Steven Soderbergh and based on a screenplay by newcomer Rebecca Blunt. Soderbergh came out of retirement to direct this film and it delivers with much of the same charm that the 'Ocean's' trilogy franchise had, only in my opinion, it's better in every way. No gloss, glamour or flashy lights to be found here, just good old roughneck families from the South with big hearts and brains when it matters.
Jimmy Logan (Channing Tatum), his one armed brother Clyde Logan (Adam Driver) and their sister Mellie Logan (Riley Keough) plan to rob the Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina. With some help from demolition expert Joe Bang (Daniel Craig) and his two brothers this could be the heist of a lifetime.
This is really sweet and also very smart storytelling, the characters are funny without being exaggerated or offensive and the entire movie has a realness to it that cannot be denied. The acting here is just so great, Tatum and Driver are terrific together and Daniel Craig is the most enjoyable that he has been since Casino Royale.
FINAL SAY: Is it twenty or is it thirty? We are dealing with science here!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: M
Running Time: 118 mins
A heist comedy directed by Steven Soderbergh and based on a screenplay by newcomer Rebecca Blunt. Soderbergh came out of retirement to direct this film and it delivers with much of the same charm that the 'Ocean's' trilogy franchise had, only in my opinion, it's better in every way. No gloss, glamour or flashy lights to be found here, just good old roughneck families from the South with big hearts and brains when it matters.
Jimmy Logan (Channing Tatum), his one armed brother Clyde Logan (Adam Driver) and their sister Mellie Logan (Riley Keough) plan to rob the Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina. With some help from demolition expert Joe Bang (Daniel Craig) and his two brothers this could be the heist of a lifetime.
This is really sweet and also very smart storytelling, the characters are funny without being exaggerated or offensive and the entire movie has a realness to it that cannot be denied. The acting here is just so great, Tatum and Driver are terrific together and Daniel Craig is the most enjoyable that he has been since Casino Royale.
FINAL SAY: Is it twenty or is it thirty? We are dealing with science here!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
BABY DRIVER
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 113 mins
A slick and fast paced action-crime, written and directed by Edgar Wright - better known for his work on the Three Flavours Cornetto Film Trilogy. After receiving massive critical acclaim, Baby Driver more than tripled it's production expenses and quickly became a cult hit and must see movie of 2017.
Getaway driver Baby (Ansel Elgort) uses music to drown out the internal buzzing that has occurred in his ears ever since he was involved in an accident that also claimed the life of his beloved mother. He is the best getaway driver in the business, which becomes his downfall when a conniving crime boss (Kevin Spacey) begins to think of Baby as his lucky charm.
A killer soundtrack, a tremendous cast and enough action scenes to thrill any diehard action fan, Baby Driver has certainly got a lot going for it. The car chase scenes are just phenomenal and the overall pace and tone of the movie is super exciting. Jon Hamm is the best that I have seen him since Mad Men as Buddy, Eiza Gonzalez brings sexy back to crime as Darling, Jamie Foxx seems to be playing a version of his own real personality as Bats and Lily James is impossibly beautiful as the Lynch-like damsel Debora. However, they are all outshined by Ansel Elgort's seemingly effortless portrayal of Baby, the cooler than cool getaway driver with a boy next door charm.
This is fresh movie making, think The Fast and the Furious with an art house feel; loads of thrills and spills but an edge of style and sophistication that leaves other car based crime-action movies behind in the rear view mirror.
FINAL SAY: The song's over, but you still have to face the music.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 113 mins
A slick and fast paced action-crime, written and directed by Edgar Wright - better known for his work on the Three Flavours Cornetto Film Trilogy. After receiving massive critical acclaim, Baby Driver more than tripled it's production expenses and quickly became a cult hit and must see movie of 2017.
Getaway driver Baby (Ansel Elgort) uses music to drown out the internal buzzing that has occurred in his ears ever since he was involved in an accident that also claimed the life of his beloved mother. He is the best getaway driver in the business, which becomes his downfall when a conniving crime boss (Kevin Spacey) begins to think of Baby as his lucky charm.
A killer soundtrack, a tremendous cast and enough action scenes to thrill any diehard action fan, Baby Driver has certainly got a lot going for it. The car chase scenes are just phenomenal and the overall pace and tone of the movie is super exciting. Jon Hamm is the best that I have seen him since Mad Men as Buddy, Eiza Gonzalez brings sexy back to crime as Darling, Jamie Foxx seems to be playing a version of his own real personality as Bats and Lily James is impossibly beautiful as the Lynch-like damsel Debora. However, they are all outshined by Ansel Elgort's seemingly effortless portrayal of Baby, the cooler than cool getaway driver with a boy next door charm.
This is fresh movie making, think The Fast and the Furious with an art house feel; loads of thrills and spills but an edge of style and sophistication that leaves other car based crime-action movies behind in the rear view mirror.
FINAL SAY: The song's over, but you still have to face the music.
4 Chilli Peppers
DUNKIRK
Release Date: 2017
Rating: M
Running Time: 120 mins
Written, co-produced and directed by Christopher Nolan, this Second World War film portrays the intense and difficult evacuation of troops from Dunkirk in 1940 from three separate perspectives, the land, the sea and the air. This may well be the best movie that Nolan has ever made, which is saying something considering his extensive body of work; but Dunkirk rises well above many other war movies with it's heavy suspense, incredible cinematography and muted dialogue.
After the invasion of France by Nazi Germany, allied forces retreat to the seaside of Dunkirk and await evacuation. But as the precious minutes pass by and the enemy relentlessly closes in, any hope of rescue or salvation begins to look bleak.
A cracker of a cast that includes Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy, Kenneth Branagh and newcomer Fionn Whitehead deliver perfectly. This is not a movie that will be remembered for its intense character development, since there is hardly any dialogue, but trust me when I say that that is one of the best things about this film.
This movie really does a tremendous job of putting you right in the middle of the action, you literally feel like you are right up alongside of the soldiers as they endure what appears to be an unending amount of terrifying and catastrophic situations. What I particularly enjoyed was the lack of blood, guts and profanity; don't get me wrong I'm no prude when it comes to those things, but it is just so refreshing to see a war movie that doesn't feel like it needs to go to those places in order to tell a terrifically atmospheric and genuinely harrowing war tale. There is something beautifully restrained and dignified about Dunkirk that I have not seen in the war genre before, and it was most certainly a welcome change for me.
FINAL SAY: You can practically see it from here.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: M
Running Time: 120 mins
Written, co-produced and directed by Christopher Nolan, this Second World War film portrays the intense and difficult evacuation of troops from Dunkirk in 1940 from three separate perspectives, the land, the sea and the air. This may well be the best movie that Nolan has ever made, which is saying something considering his extensive body of work; but Dunkirk rises well above many other war movies with it's heavy suspense, incredible cinematography and muted dialogue.
After the invasion of France by Nazi Germany, allied forces retreat to the seaside of Dunkirk and await evacuation. But as the precious minutes pass by and the enemy relentlessly closes in, any hope of rescue or salvation begins to look bleak.
A cracker of a cast that includes Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy, Kenneth Branagh and newcomer Fionn Whitehead deliver perfectly. This is not a movie that will be remembered for its intense character development, since there is hardly any dialogue, but trust me when I say that that is one of the best things about this film.
This movie really does a tremendous job of putting you right in the middle of the action, you literally feel like you are right up alongside of the soldiers as they endure what appears to be an unending amount of terrifying and catastrophic situations. What I particularly enjoyed was the lack of blood, guts and profanity; don't get me wrong I'm no prude when it comes to those things, but it is just so refreshing to see a war movie that doesn't feel like it needs to go to those places in order to tell a terrifically atmospheric and genuinely harrowing war tale. There is something beautifully restrained and dignified about Dunkirk that I have not seen in the war genre before, and it was most certainly a welcome change for me.
FINAL SAY: You can practically see it from here.
4 Chilli Peppers
I DON'T FEEL AT HOME IN THIS WORLD ANYMORE
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 96 mins
A unique crime drama that has it's quirk levels turned up to high volume; I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore both surprised and impressed me with it's fresh script and interesting characters. Written and directed by Macon Blair (better known for his mesmerising role in the gritty thriller Blue Ruin), the movie premiered at the Sundance Film Festival where it won the Grand Jury Prize, and was later released by Netflix.
Ruth, a slightly awkward nursing assistant, is horrified to find that her home has been broken into. Her medication, laptop and grandmother's silverware have been taken and the authorities don't seem to be very concerned. When an opportunity arises for some vigilante justice, Ruth enlists the help of a rather odd neighbour to help her recover her stolen goods.
I just adore Melanie Lynskey, she's a terrific actress and an untapped resource as far as I am concerned. She is just brilliant here as the downtrodden character Ruth; perfectly ditzy and ballsy at the same time. Elijah Wood is also fabulous as Tony, adding a lot of entertainment value to the overall feel of the film. I love that Wood is so willing to take on less conventional roles; I haven't found him this enjoyable since Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency.
FINAL SAY: It's not your lawn tiger!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 96 mins
A unique crime drama that has it's quirk levels turned up to high volume; I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore both surprised and impressed me with it's fresh script and interesting characters. Written and directed by Macon Blair (better known for his mesmerising role in the gritty thriller Blue Ruin), the movie premiered at the Sundance Film Festival where it won the Grand Jury Prize, and was later released by Netflix.
Ruth, a slightly awkward nursing assistant, is horrified to find that her home has been broken into. Her medication, laptop and grandmother's silverware have been taken and the authorities don't seem to be very concerned. When an opportunity arises for some vigilante justice, Ruth enlists the help of a rather odd neighbour to help her recover her stolen goods.
I just adore Melanie Lynskey, she's a terrific actress and an untapped resource as far as I am concerned. She is just brilliant here as the downtrodden character Ruth; perfectly ditzy and ballsy at the same time. Elijah Wood is also fabulous as Tony, adding a lot of entertainment value to the overall feel of the film. I love that Wood is so willing to take on less conventional roles; I haven't found him this enjoyable since Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency.
FINAL SAY: It's not your lawn tiger!
3 Chilli Peppers
HACKSAW RIDGE
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 139 mins
Not since Saving Private Ryan has there been so much graphic bloodshed depicted on the battlefields, but what this movie does have that Saving Private Ryan failed to deliver is a lot more heart and an extraordinary true story about a real life war hero. Written by Andrew Knight and directed by Mel Gibson, Hacksaw Ridge plays out like an old school war movie from days gone by. I felt like I was watching something that could've been made in the 1970's with much better effects, and I found that aspect extremely pleasing.
Desmond Doss enlists in the army during the outbreak of WWII. Being a conscientious objector (C.O.) and a Seventh-day Adventist, Doss refuses his right to carry or use firearms during war, and choses to be unarmed medic during his call of duty in the the Battle of Okinawa. His heroic efforts at Hacksaw Ridge made him the first C.O. to receive a Medal of Honour.
This is a war story that deserves to be heard, and even though Doss was clearly motivated by his religious ideals, the film doesn't feel preachy or heavy handed in that way. Andrew Garfield shines as Doss, giving the best performance of his career thus far and earning himself a Best Actor nomination at the 89th Academy Awards. The supporting actors are all excellent, with notable performance from Vince Vaughn, Sam Worthington and Hugo Weaving.
It is rare for a biographical war hero film to not feel like it is glorifying war in some way, but I didn't get that from this film at all. Gibson has done a fine job of telling Doss's story with dignity and passion, minus all of the bravado which, if the end testaments from Doss and his war friends are anything to go by, is exactly the way that Doss would've wanted it to be told.
FINAL SAY: Help me get one more.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 139 mins
Not since Saving Private Ryan has there been so much graphic bloodshed depicted on the battlefields, but what this movie does have that Saving Private Ryan failed to deliver is a lot more heart and an extraordinary true story about a real life war hero. Written by Andrew Knight and directed by Mel Gibson, Hacksaw Ridge plays out like an old school war movie from days gone by. I felt like I was watching something that could've been made in the 1970's with much better effects, and I found that aspect extremely pleasing.
Desmond Doss enlists in the army during the outbreak of WWII. Being a conscientious objector (C.O.) and a Seventh-day Adventist, Doss refuses his right to carry or use firearms during war, and choses to be unarmed medic during his call of duty in the the Battle of Okinawa. His heroic efforts at Hacksaw Ridge made him the first C.O. to receive a Medal of Honour.
This is a war story that deserves to be heard, and even though Doss was clearly motivated by his religious ideals, the film doesn't feel preachy or heavy handed in that way. Andrew Garfield shines as Doss, giving the best performance of his career thus far and earning himself a Best Actor nomination at the 89th Academy Awards. The supporting actors are all excellent, with notable performance from Vince Vaughn, Sam Worthington and Hugo Weaving.
It is rare for a biographical war hero film to not feel like it is glorifying war in some way, but I didn't get that from this film at all. Gibson has done a fine job of telling Doss's story with dignity and passion, minus all of the bravado which, if the end testaments from Doss and his war friends are anything to go by, is exactly the way that Doss would've wanted it to be told.
FINAL SAY: Help me get one more.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE BAD BATCH
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 118 mins
Unfairly slammed by critics, this dystopian action/art house movie, written and directed by Ana Lily Amirpour offers viewers a disturbing glimpse into an outcast landscape that is rife with cult leaders, cannibals and completely lost souls; which I found genuinely entertaining. Selected to compete in both the Golden Lion and 73rd Venice International Film Festival, The Bad Batch won the Special Jury Prize, which for me proves that the critics were wrong about this one.
Arlen has just been declared one of 'The Bad Batch' which means that she has been exiled from society and must now try to survive in a dry and dangerous landscape. The only apparent salvation from the cannibals that scour the desert for human meat is an outpost called Comfort that claims to take in anyone seeking shelter. However, Arlen soon learns that no place is truly safe in this dystopian wasteland.
The ensemble cast here is amazing, with Jason Momoa, Giovanni Ribisi, Keanu Reeves and an almost unrecognisable Jim Carrey all offering strong and engaging presence. Suki Waterhouse delivers well as Arlen, the young and determined spirit who sits at the heart of this strange and unusual tale, and the entire experience is weird and unforgettable.
Don't be swayed by the critics, The Bad Batch is worth a look.
FINAL SAY: It's time to wake up, it's time to find the dream.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 118 mins
Unfairly slammed by critics, this dystopian action/art house movie, written and directed by Ana Lily Amirpour offers viewers a disturbing glimpse into an outcast landscape that is rife with cult leaders, cannibals and completely lost souls; which I found genuinely entertaining. Selected to compete in both the Golden Lion and 73rd Venice International Film Festival, The Bad Batch won the Special Jury Prize, which for me proves that the critics were wrong about this one.
Arlen has just been declared one of 'The Bad Batch' which means that she has been exiled from society and must now try to survive in a dry and dangerous landscape. The only apparent salvation from the cannibals that scour the desert for human meat is an outpost called Comfort that claims to take in anyone seeking shelter. However, Arlen soon learns that no place is truly safe in this dystopian wasteland.
The ensemble cast here is amazing, with Jason Momoa, Giovanni Ribisi, Keanu Reeves and an almost unrecognisable Jim Carrey all offering strong and engaging presence. Suki Waterhouse delivers well as Arlen, the young and determined spirit who sits at the heart of this strange and unusual tale, and the entire experience is weird and unforgettable.
Don't be swayed by the critics, The Bad Batch is worth a look.
FINAL SAY: It's time to wake up, it's time to find the dream.
3 Chilli Peppers
AMERICAN ULTRA
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 96 mins
An action-comedy written by Max Landis and directed by Nima Nourizadeh, American Ultra is a bit of a wacky ride from start to end. So much of a wacky ride that I was tempted to place into the art house section. The thing that stopped me from doing that was its completely linear plot, which travels from A to B directly; oh and also, it has tons of guns and action in it - so yeah, action won out.
A small town pothead named Mike (Jesse Eisenberg) and his long term girlfriend Phoebe (Kristen Stewart) have their lives turned upside down when they discover that Mike is actually a lethal killing machine that has been dormant for years until recently being reactivated by a CIA agent.
The idea of Jesse Eisenberg as a lethal killing machine was certainly a stretch for me, but I think that was purposefully done to add humour to the storyline here, I'm just not sure that it worked that well. The rest of the cast was actually pretty good, Kristen Stewart is always reliably good, and the support cast boasts the likes of John Leguizamo, Connie Britton, Topher Grace and Bill Pullman.
Even though this is hardly high quality viewing, it is undeniably different and oddly entertaining, so overall I think that it is more than worthy of the 96 minutes of time that it takes to watch it.
FINAL SAY: Something very weird is happening to me, I keep killing people!
3 Chilli peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 96 mins
An action-comedy written by Max Landis and directed by Nima Nourizadeh, American Ultra is a bit of a wacky ride from start to end. So much of a wacky ride that I was tempted to place into the art house section. The thing that stopped me from doing that was its completely linear plot, which travels from A to B directly; oh and also, it has tons of guns and action in it - so yeah, action won out.
A small town pothead named Mike (Jesse Eisenberg) and his long term girlfriend Phoebe (Kristen Stewart) have their lives turned upside down when they discover that Mike is actually a lethal killing machine that has been dormant for years until recently being reactivated by a CIA agent.
The idea of Jesse Eisenberg as a lethal killing machine was certainly a stretch for me, but I think that was purposefully done to add humour to the storyline here, I'm just not sure that it worked that well. The rest of the cast was actually pretty good, Kristen Stewart is always reliably good, and the support cast boasts the likes of John Leguizamo, Connie Britton, Topher Grace and Bill Pullman.
Even though this is hardly high quality viewing, it is undeniably different and oddly entertaining, so overall I think that it is more than worthy of the 96 minutes of time that it takes to watch it.
FINAL SAY: Something very weird is happening to me, I keep killing people!
3 Chilli peppers
SICARIO
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 121 mins
A crime thriller directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Taylor Sheridan that boasts an all star ensemble cast and a tightly wound storyline that earned it several Academy and BAFTA award nominations.
FBI agent Kate Macer (Emily Blunt) is enlisted by an elite government task force overseen by Matt Graver (Josh Brolin) to assist with bringing down the leader of a powerful and brutal Mexican drug cartel. Matt's secretive partner Alejandro Gillick (Benicio del Toro) appears to have a personal investment in finding the elusive leader which forces Macer outside of her professional boundaries.
This is an intense and intelligent action movie about the ongoing brutality of drug wars with some incredible cinematography and a genuinely believable storyline. Blunt and Brolin are tremendously good here, but without a doubt, it is Benicio del Toro who steals all of the glory with his exceptionally driven and intimidating portrayal of Gillick. Sicario is definitely a crime thriller must see movie.
FINAL SAY: This is the land of wolves now.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 121 mins
A crime thriller directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Taylor Sheridan that boasts an all star ensemble cast and a tightly wound storyline that earned it several Academy and BAFTA award nominations.
FBI agent Kate Macer (Emily Blunt) is enlisted by an elite government task force overseen by Matt Graver (Josh Brolin) to assist with bringing down the leader of a powerful and brutal Mexican drug cartel. Matt's secretive partner Alejandro Gillick (Benicio del Toro) appears to have a personal investment in finding the elusive leader which forces Macer outside of her professional boundaries.
This is an intense and intelligent action movie about the ongoing brutality of drug wars with some incredible cinematography and a genuinely believable storyline. Blunt and Brolin are tremendously good here, but without a doubt, it is Benicio del Toro who steals all of the glory with his exceptionally driven and intimidating portrayal of Gillick. Sicario is definitely a crime thriller must see movie.
FINAL SAY: This is the land of wolves now.
4 Chilli Peppers
MAD MAX: FURY ROAD
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 120 mins
Being a fan of the original Mad Max movie, which I have already reviewed on my Sci-Fi list, I was keen to see the remake, also directed by George Miller. I realised after about twenty minutes in, that this version could not be placed on any other list but action. And what action it is! Full throttle, high octane, heart thumping, non-stop action every second of the way.
In this version, we are still in a dystopian post apocalyptic landscape, where oil and water are highly sought after resources; but the need for healthy children and viable baby makers is equally as important. When tyrannical warlord Immortan Joe has his five beautiful wives stolen by the warrior Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron), he's out for blood. Max (Tom Hardy) a loner and former captive, forms an alliance with Furiosa and together they try to save the doomed brides and outrun Immortan and his army of crazies in a fortified War Rig across the barren and dangerous landscape.
Theron and Hardy are fantastic together, relying heavily on their ability to act tough and ruthless, because this film is certainly not heavy on the dialogue. But who needs dialogue when you have that much action going on? If you are looking for something thrilling and easy to watch, look no further, the new Mad Max is a hell of a ride!
FINAL SAY: Kaboom!
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 120 mins
Being a fan of the original Mad Max movie, which I have already reviewed on my Sci-Fi list, I was keen to see the remake, also directed by George Miller. I realised after about twenty minutes in, that this version could not be placed on any other list but action. And what action it is! Full throttle, high octane, heart thumping, non-stop action every second of the way.
In this version, we are still in a dystopian post apocalyptic landscape, where oil and water are highly sought after resources; but the need for healthy children and viable baby makers is equally as important. When tyrannical warlord Immortan Joe has his five beautiful wives stolen by the warrior Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron), he's out for blood. Max (Tom Hardy) a loner and former captive, forms an alliance with Furiosa and together they try to save the doomed brides and outrun Immortan and his army of crazies in a fortified War Rig across the barren and dangerous landscape.
Theron and Hardy are fantastic together, relying heavily on their ability to act tough and ruthless, because this film is certainly not heavy on the dialogue. But who needs dialogue when you have that much action going on? If you are looking for something thrilling and easy to watch, look no further, the new Mad Max is a hell of a ride!
FINAL SAY: Kaboom!
4.5 Chilli Peppers
SON OF SAUL
Release Date: 2015
Rating: M
Running Time: 107 mins
This Hungarian historical drama hits so hard that it almost landed on my gritty list. Directed by László Nemes in his feature directorial debut, and co-written by Nemes and Clare Royer, Son of Saul nabbed the Best Foreign Language Award at the 88th Academy Awards and rocked everyone's sensitivities with its grim portrayal of the living hell inside a Nazi concentration camp.
Set in the Auschwitz concentration camp during World War II, we follow a day in the life of Saul Ausländer, a Hungarian member of the Sonderkommando - a special work unit made up of Nazi death camp prisoners. Saul is forced, by threat of his own life, to aid in the disposal of gas chamber victims.
Grim is an understatement, this film is unforgettably despairing and disturbing. We all know about the atrocities of the concentration camps of the second World War, but when you are faced with devastating realities that are portrayed in Son of Saul, its hard to unsee the monstrous horror and depravity.
Powerfully acted and deeply affecting, Son of Saul is an unforgettable tale and definitely a movie that matters.
FINAL SAY: We are dead already.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: M
Running Time: 107 mins
This Hungarian historical drama hits so hard that it almost landed on my gritty list. Directed by László Nemes in his feature directorial debut, and co-written by Nemes and Clare Royer, Son of Saul nabbed the Best Foreign Language Award at the 88th Academy Awards and rocked everyone's sensitivities with its grim portrayal of the living hell inside a Nazi concentration camp.
Set in the Auschwitz concentration camp during World War II, we follow a day in the life of Saul Ausländer, a Hungarian member of the Sonderkommando - a special work unit made up of Nazi death camp prisoners. Saul is forced, by threat of his own life, to aid in the disposal of gas chamber victims.
Grim is an understatement, this film is unforgettably despairing and disturbing. We all know about the atrocities of the concentration camps of the second World War, but when you are faced with devastating realities that are portrayed in Son of Saul, its hard to unsee the monstrous horror and depravity.
Powerfully acted and deeply affecting, Son of Saul is an unforgettable tale and definitely a movie that matters.
FINAL SAY: We are dead already.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE HATEFUL EIGHT
Release Date: 2015
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 187 mins
This Tarantino offering plays out more like a "Who-Done-It " murder mystery than an action movie, so it was hardly surprising that die hard fans of the director's previous works weren't as entranced by this new material. I however felt that The Hateful Eight, although most certainly less accessible than Tarantino's previous repertoire, was nothing short of brilliant. Part western, part mystery, part drama, it is difficult to know exactly where this film fits in terms of genre, but there is still plenty of crime, so that part was a no-brainer.
Set in Wyoming during a particularly harsh winter, a bounty hunter (Kurt Russell) is travelling to the town of Red Rock to deliver his latest captive Daisy Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh) to the hangman. Along the way, they collect two passengers and end up having to take refuge at Minnie's Haberdashery when a fierce blizzard makes their travels too dangerous. At the Haberdashery they encounter four more men, also claiming to be waiting out the storm, but as the hours progress, it becomes clear that not everyone is really who they are claiming to be.
The fact that the majority of this film happens within the small confines of one room means that the script needed to be tight and engaging, which it is, very engaging in fact. Without a doubt, Tarantino's collection of tried and true 'villain' actors do a marvelous job of keeping the story afloat and delivering faultlessly for the duration. Samuel L.Jackson, Kurt Russell, Tim Roth, Michael Madsen and Bruce Dern demonstrate that they still definitely have what it takes, and with the help of Jennifer Jason Leigh, Walton Goggins, Demian Bichir and James Parker the intriguing story line plays out with style. Don't expect this to be like Tarantino's other movies, because it's not. Quentin Tarantino is certainly still evolving as a director, and each movie that he makes is a testimony to that. I for one can't wait to see what he does next!
FINAL SAY: You only need to hang mean bastards, but mean bastards you need to hang.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 187 mins
This Tarantino offering plays out more like a "Who-Done-It " murder mystery than an action movie, so it was hardly surprising that die hard fans of the director's previous works weren't as entranced by this new material. I however felt that The Hateful Eight, although most certainly less accessible than Tarantino's previous repertoire, was nothing short of brilliant. Part western, part mystery, part drama, it is difficult to know exactly where this film fits in terms of genre, but there is still plenty of crime, so that part was a no-brainer.
Set in Wyoming during a particularly harsh winter, a bounty hunter (Kurt Russell) is travelling to the town of Red Rock to deliver his latest captive Daisy Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh) to the hangman. Along the way, they collect two passengers and end up having to take refuge at Minnie's Haberdashery when a fierce blizzard makes their travels too dangerous. At the Haberdashery they encounter four more men, also claiming to be waiting out the storm, but as the hours progress, it becomes clear that not everyone is really who they are claiming to be.
The fact that the majority of this film happens within the small confines of one room means that the script needed to be tight and engaging, which it is, very engaging in fact. Without a doubt, Tarantino's collection of tried and true 'villain' actors do a marvelous job of keeping the story afloat and delivering faultlessly for the duration. Samuel L.Jackson, Kurt Russell, Tim Roth, Michael Madsen and Bruce Dern demonstrate that they still definitely have what it takes, and with the help of Jennifer Jason Leigh, Walton Goggins, Demian Bichir and James Parker the intriguing story line plays out with style. Don't expect this to be like Tarantino's other movies, because it's not. Quentin Tarantino is certainly still evolving as a director, and each movie that he makes is a testimony to that. I for one can't wait to see what he does next!
FINAL SAY: You only need to hang mean bastards, but mean bastards you need to hang.
4 Chilli Peppers
NOAH
Release Date: 2014
Rating: M
Running Time: 138 mins
I won't lie, it was the lure of Darren Aronofsky that got me here, not the thought of a good bible story or Russell Crowe. And I have to say that I was really impressed with both the quality and the tastefulness in which this story was handled.
You do not need to be religious to enjoy this movie. It is not bible bashing or trying to convert the viewer in any way, so don't let pre-conceptions hold back from a viewing. I seriously doubt that you need me to run you down on the storyline here, but for those of you that have just landed on planet Earth, it's about a man named Noah saving two of every creature in the world from an apocalyptic flood in a giant boat that he builds because his creator told him to do it.
Sounds like a good myth? Well it is, and it translates beautifully as one. Aronofsky has been both religiously sensitive and exceptionally clever in his portray of very early man. The thought that has clearly gone into the design of the animals, the execution of the angels and the ideal of a creator is quite amazing. This movie translates very well.
Russell Crowe is the most enjoyable I've seen him since Gladiator, Jennifer Connolly makes a convincing wife and Emma Watson and Logan Lerman add merit as the next generation of Seth.
FINAL SAY: A wonderful mythical retelling.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: M
Running Time: 138 mins
I won't lie, it was the lure of Darren Aronofsky that got me here, not the thought of a good bible story or Russell Crowe. And I have to say that I was really impressed with both the quality and the tastefulness in which this story was handled.
You do not need to be religious to enjoy this movie. It is not bible bashing or trying to convert the viewer in any way, so don't let pre-conceptions hold back from a viewing. I seriously doubt that you need me to run you down on the storyline here, but for those of you that have just landed on planet Earth, it's about a man named Noah saving two of every creature in the world from an apocalyptic flood in a giant boat that he builds because his creator told him to do it.
Sounds like a good myth? Well it is, and it translates beautifully as one. Aronofsky has been both religiously sensitive and exceptionally clever in his portray of very early man. The thought that has clearly gone into the design of the animals, the execution of the angels and the ideal of a creator is quite amazing. This movie translates very well.
Russell Crowe is the most enjoyable I've seen him since Gladiator, Jennifer Connolly makes a convincing wife and Emma Watson and Logan Lerman add merit as the next generation of Seth.
FINAL SAY: A wonderful mythical retelling.
3 Chilli Peppers
KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 129 mins
An action crime movie that is smart, stylish and above all else, loads of good fun. Directed by Matthew Vaughn, this is the most enjoyable spy movie that I have encountered in a long time, with it's cheeky black humour and stylized action sequences, Kingsman offers a far more dignified, humorous and refined version of the British spy genre than the Austin Powers comedy franchise ever did.
The Kingsman, a British secret spy agency is looking to recruit some new spies into their organisation. Gary 'Eggsy' Unwin, a talented young thug finds himself competing against other elite young hopefuls for a spot in the ranks of The Kingman.
Terrific performances from Samuel L. Jackson, Mark Strong, Taron Egerton, Michael Caine and Sofia Boutella really elevate this film to higher standards. Colin Firth is the most charismatic and entertaining that he has been in his entire acting career; honestly, who knew that he could perform 'action hero' so well?
Overall, this movie is just really good fun, I had a really good time watching it and found the action sequences extremely original and exciting, absolutely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: Manners maketh man.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Note: The 2017 instalment, Kingsman: The Golden Circle was not quite as spicy as its predecessor, but still earned a respectable 3 Chilli Peppers from me.
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 129 mins
An action crime movie that is smart, stylish and above all else, loads of good fun. Directed by Matthew Vaughn, this is the most enjoyable spy movie that I have encountered in a long time, with it's cheeky black humour and stylized action sequences, Kingsman offers a far more dignified, humorous and refined version of the British spy genre than the Austin Powers comedy franchise ever did.
The Kingsman, a British secret spy agency is looking to recruit some new spies into their organisation. Gary 'Eggsy' Unwin, a talented young thug finds himself competing against other elite young hopefuls for a spot in the ranks of The Kingman.
Terrific performances from Samuel L. Jackson, Mark Strong, Taron Egerton, Michael Caine and Sofia Boutella really elevate this film to higher standards. Colin Firth is the most charismatic and entertaining that he has been in his entire acting career; honestly, who knew that he could perform 'action hero' so well?
Overall, this movie is just really good fun, I had a really good time watching it and found the action sequences extremely original and exciting, absolutely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: Manners maketh man.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Note: The 2017 instalment, Kingsman: The Golden Circle was not quite as spicy as its predecessor, but still earned a respectable 3 Chilli Peppers from me.
HERCULES
Release Date: 2014
Rating: M
Running Time: 98 mins
Okay, to be fair, my love of all things 'Ancient Greek' may have helped this one along a bit. Brett Ratner, mostly known for his Horrible Bosses movies, has managed to pull off a fun and entertaining mythological-action movie. This Hercules film is attempting to reveal the story behind 'Hercules the man', not 'Hercules the Demigod'.
Having already endured his 12 labours (I kind of wished we had seen more of that action) Hercules and his band of warriors attempt to free the city of Thrace from a tyrannical warlord that is massacring villages and is also rumoured to have an army of centaurs at his disposal.
Dwayne Johnson does a decent job of Hercules, but it was Ian McShane's Amphiaraus and Rufus Sewell's Autolycus that stole the show for me. If you know your Greek Mythology, there are a lot of laughs to be had here.
FINAL SAY: Any man can be a hero, he just has to believe that he is one.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: M
Running Time: 98 mins
Okay, to be fair, my love of all things 'Ancient Greek' may have helped this one along a bit. Brett Ratner, mostly known for his Horrible Bosses movies, has managed to pull off a fun and entertaining mythological-action movie. This Hercules film is attempting to reveal the story behind 'Hercules the man', not 'Hercules the Demigod'.
Having already endured his 12 labours (I kind of wished we had seen more of that action) Hercules and his band of warriors attempt to free the city of Thrace from a tyrannical warlord that is massacring villages and is also rumoured to have an army of centaurs at his disposal.
Dwayne Johnson does a decent job of Hercules, but it was Ian McShane's Amphiaraus and Rufus Sewell's Autolycus that stole the show for me. If you know your Greek Mythology, there are a lot of laughs to be had here.
FINAL SAY: Any man can be a hero, he just has to believe that he is one.
3 Chilli Peppers
AMERICAN SNIPER
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 133 mins
Based on the memoirs of U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle entitled American Sniper:The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History, the film follows Kyle through four tours in the Iraq War. Kyle became the deadliest marksman in the U.S. due to the 255 kills that he made during his tours, 160 of which were officially confirmed by the Department of Defense.
American Sniper closely follows Kyle's struggles as he rises to a heroes status on the back of war killings, whilst still trying to hold onto his marriage and be a decent father. Raised in a strict household, Kyle established deeply ingrained ideals about 'tending the flock' early on in life, which transferred later in life to his unfailing sense of responsibility to his comrades and country.
But this movie is not just glorifying the heroes of war, Clint Eastwood has taken great care with the direction and we do get a sense of the confusion and uncertainty of the soldiers during their time in service. There is also a very clear message being sent here about the way that veterans are so greatly overlooked after their tour has ended, and the almost ironic ending is certainly testament to that.
Bradley Cooper is bringing his best and does a fabulous job of portraying a man that is intense, confident and yet completely vulnerable. Sienna Miller is fine as Kyle's long suffering wife, but I do wish that were more scenes where she didn't just cry and beg him to stay because I am sure that there would've have been more facets to her personality than that.
Overall, I found the movie interesting and I felt that there was enough moral conflict to make it steer away from the glorification of soldiers that are eradicating 'evil' in the world, to get to the root of what is wrong about war.
FINAL SAY: God, country, family, right?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 133 mins
Based on the memoirs of U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle entitled American Sniper:The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History, the film follows Kyle through four tours in the Iraq War. Kyle became the deadliest marksman in the U.S. due to the 255 kills that he made during his tours, 160 of which were officially confirmed by the Department of Defense.
American Sniper closely follows Kyle's struggles as he rises to a heroes status on the back of war killings, whilst still trying to hold onto his marriage and be a decent father. Raised in a strict household, Kyle established deeply ingrained ideals about 'tending the flock' early on in life, which transferred later in life to his unfailing sense of responsibility to his comrades and country.
But this movie is not just glorifying the heroes of war, Clint Eastwood has taken great care with the direction and we do get a sense of the confusion and uncertainty of the soldiers during their time in service. There is also a very clear message being sent here about the way that veterans are so greatly overlooked after their tour has ended, and the almost ironic ending is certainly testament to that.
Bradley Cooper is bringing his best and does a fabulous job of portraying a man that is intense, confident and yet completely vulnerable. Sienna Miller is fine as Kyle's long suffering wife, but I do wish that were more scenes where she didn't just cry and beg him to stay because I am sure that there would've have been more facets to her personality than that.
Overall, I found the movie interesting and I felt that there was enough moral conflict to make it steer away from the glorification of soldiers that are eradicating 'evil' in the world, to get to the root of what is wrong about war.
FINAL SAY: God, country, family, right?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
NIGHTCRAWLER
Release Date: 2014
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 117 mins
Just how far is the media willing to go in order to get cutting edge stories to us? Well it appears that there are no limits when we view it through the eyes of Louis "Lou" Bloom, a thief and sociopath that is willing to go way out on a limb to get the grittiest and most controversial stories to the press: first time, every time.
Jake Gyllenhaal brings an air of creepy determination to his role that could be compared to De Niro's crazy character Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver; he is really bringing his best here, and this film would not have been as successful without him. In essence, Nightcrawler is as much about the warped mind of Lou Bloom as it is about the media's willingness to stoop to disturbing levels to get their story, and it is a riveting and at times unpleasant watch.
Filmed mostly at night, the neo-noir atmosphere is sleek and seductive. Nightcrawler is a fabulous modern crime drama, full of exploitation and dark devious characters making it utterly compelling for all the wrong reasons, which just magnifies it's already upsetting message about audiences thirsting for news of a certain caliber.
FINAL SAY: Do you know what fear stands for? False Evidence Appearing Real.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 117 mins
Just how far is the media willing to go in order to get cutting edge stories to us? Well it appears that there are no limits when we view it through the eyes of Louis "Lou" Bloom, a thief and sociopath that is willing to go way out on a limb to get the grittiest and most controversial stories to the press: first time, every time.
Jake Gyllenhaal brings an air of creepy determination to his role that could be compared to De Niro's crazy character Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver; he is really bringing his best here, and this film would not have been as successful without him. In essence, Nightcrawler is as much about the warped mind of Lou Bloom as it is about the media's willingness to stoop to disturbing levels to get their story, and it is a riveting and at times unpleasant watch.
Filmed mostly at night, the neo-noir atmosphere is sleek and seductive. Nightcrawler is a fabulous modern crime drama, full of exploitation and dark devious characters making it utterly compelling for all the wrong reasons, which just magnifies it's already upsetting message about audiences thirsting for news of a certain caliber.
FINAL SAY: Do you know what fear stands for? False Evidence Appearing Real.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE RAID: REDEMPTION and THE RAID 2
Release Date: 2011 and 2014
Rating: MA 15+ and R 18+
Running Time: 251 mins total
If it is action that you're looking for, then look no further, these high paced, Indonesian martial arts, crime-drama movies have scenes that move so fast you won't be able to believe that it has been shot in real time.
Filmed in Jakarta and showcasing the brutal Indonesian fighting style of Pencak Silat, The Raid: Redemption and The Raid 2 are relentlessly violent but also breathtakingly edgy and unforgettable.
The Raid: Redemption centres on a police raid at a concrete fortress apartment building in an attempt to arrest a crime lord named Tama Riyadi. Many rival gangs have attempted to take over the building before and failed, which means that this mission is extremely dangerous, especially for the mostly rookie 20 strong squad that have been assigned the impossible task.
The Raid 2 is centred on a rookie cop (a survivor from the first raid effort) that has been thrown into a world of corruption when he goes undercover to infiltrate the underbelly of the city and expose the corrupt police behind it all.
These films are a power house of gore, the fight scenes are spattered with blood and guts, and the fighting style is so amazing that you just won't be able to get your head around what you are seeing. I haven't seen anything like these films before, they are so fast and intense that I barely had time to absorb everything that was going on.
These films would have to be some of the grittiest and yet completely extravagant action movies of all time, but don't just take my word for it, see them for yourself if you have the stomach for it.
FINAL SAY: No...I'm done.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011 and 2014
Rating: MA 15+ and R 18+
Running Time: 251 mins total
If it is action that you're looking for, then look no further, these high paced, Indonesian martial arts, crime-drama movies have scenes that move so fast you won't be able to believe that it has been shot in real time.
Filmed in Jakarta and showcasing the brutal Indonesian fighting style of Pencak Silat, The Raid: Redemption and The Raid 2 are relentlessly violent but also breathtakingly edgy and unforgettable.
The Raid: Redemption centres on a police raid at a concrete fortress apartment building in an attempt to arrest a crime lord named Tama Riyadi. Many rival gangs have attempted to take over the building before and failed, which means that this mission is extremely dangerous, especially for the mostly rookie 20 strong squad that have been assigned the impossible task.
The Raid 2 is centred on a rookie cop (a survivor from the first raid effort) that has been thrown into a world of corruption when he goes undercover to infiltrate the underbelly of the city and expose the corrupt police behind it all.
These films are a power house of gore, the fight scenes are spattered with blood and guts, and the fighting style is so amazing that you just won't be able to get your head around what you are seeing. I haven't seen anything like these films before, they are so fast and intense that I barely had time to absorb everything that was going on.
These films would have to be some of the grittiest and yet completely extravagant action movies of all time, but don't just take my word for it, see them for yourself if you have the stomach for it.
FINAL SAY: No...I'm done.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE WOLF OF WALL STREET
Release Date: 2014
Rated: R 18+
Running time: 179 min
This movie came to me at the end of it's huge hype, it was on DVD by the time I engaged it, so I had already heard about the orgies, the cocaine snorting antics and the scandalized debauchery through default. Maybe I have become somewhat desensitized over the years, but I really didn't find this movie that shocking. It's a Scorsese film, it's inevitably going to be about opportunistic scum bags making their way through life by ripping off the naive and less corrupt, that much goes without saying. Is it Hall of Fame awesome? No not that awesome, and for most probably a half hour too long. The length wasn't an issue for me, but in fairness it rarely is.
Leo does a great job portraying all of the lunacy and frenetic appetites of 'The Wolf' but in the end it was Jonah Hill's epic portrayal of his loyal and tragic cousin-humping sidekick that stole the show for me.
Extremely noteworthy performances from Joanna Lumley, Matthew McConaughey and upcoming Aussie actress Margot Robbie who just shines as the all too beautiful Naomi Lapaglia. Overall a worthy waste of almost 3 hours of my life.
FINAL SAY: Worth the time but not life changing.
3.5 Chilli peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rated: R 18+
Running time: 179 min
This movie came to me at the end of it's huge hype, it was on DVD by the time I engaged it, so I had already heard about the orgies, the cocaine snorting antics and the scandalized debauchery through default. Maybe I have become somewhat desensitized over the years, but I really didn't find this movie that shocking. It's a Scorsese film, it's inevitably going to be about opportunistic scum bags making their way through life by ripping off the naive and less corrupt, that much goes without saying. Is it Hall of Fame awesome? No not that awesome, and for most probably a half hour too long. The length wasn't an issue for me, but in fairness it rarely is.
Leo does a great job portraying all of the lunacy and frenetic appetites of 'The Wolf' but in the end it was Jonah Hill's epic portrayal of his loyal and tragic cousin-humping sidekick that stole the show for me.
Extremely noteworthy performances from Joanna Lumley, Matthew McConaughey and upcoming Aussie actress Margot Robbie who just shines as the all too beautiful Naomi Lapaglia. Overall a worthy waste of almost 3 hours of my life.
FINAL SAY: Worth the time but not life changing.
3.5 Chilli peppers
JOHN WICK
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 101 mins
A slick action-crime film directed by Chad Stahelski, in his directorial debut and written by Derek Kolstad. John Wick delivers a fast paced, action packed ride with intense fight scenes that rival Hong Kong action movies. I was pleasantly and unexpectedly entertained by this movie with it's neo-noir vibe and smooth talking hitman with a soft heart, it is undeniably enjoyable.
When the puppy that his recently deceased wife left for him to assist with his grief is killed and his beloved Mustang is stolen, ex-hitman John Wick comes out of retirement to exact his revenge.
No big surprises with the storyline here, it all plays out in a pretty predictable and linear fashion, but the real strength of this movie is the impeccable cast and intense action sequences. Ian McShane, Willem Dafoe, Michael Nyqvist, Alfie Allen and John Leguizamo all join the ranks, but they are completely eclipsed by Keanu Reeves, who hasn't delivered anything this sexy and cool since The Matrix.
FINAL SAY: He was the one that you sent to kill the fucking Boogeyman.
4 Chilli Peppers
Note: John Wick: Chapter 2 released in 2017, John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum released 2019 and John Wick: Chapter 4 released in 2023 continue to deliver even more high quality, fast paced, worldwide action and are equally as good (dare I say even better?) as the first John Wick offering. As far as action series go, the John Wick series is second to none. Every instalment has manged to up the quality of the cinematography and the choreography of the action sequences, and personally I just cannot get enough of that gorgeous John Wick!
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 101 mins
A slick action-crime film directed by Chad Stahelski, in his directorial debut and written by Derek Kolstad. John Wick delivers a fast paced, action packed ride with intense fight scenes that rival Hong Kong action movies. I was pleasantly and unexpectedly entertained by this movie with it's neo-noir vibe and smooth talking hitman with a soft heart, it is undeniably enjoyable.
When the puppy that his recently deceased wife left for him to assist with his grief is killed and his beloved Mustang is stolen, ex-hitman John Wick comes out of retirement to exact his revenge.
No big surprises with the storyline here, it all plays out in a pretty predictable and linear fashion, but the real strength of this movie is the impeccable cast and intense action sequences. Ian McShane, Willem Dafoe, Michael Nyqvist, Alfie Allen and John Leguizamo all join the ranks, but they are completely eclipsed by Keanu Reeves, who hasn't delivered anything this sexy and cool since The Matrix.
FINAL SAY: He was the one that you sent to kill the fucking Boogeyman.
4 Chilli Peppers
Note: John Wick: Chapter 2 released in 2017, John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum released 2019 and John Wick: Chapter 4 released in 2023 continue to deliver even more high quality, fast paced, worldwide action and are equally as good (dare I say even better?) as the first John Wick offering. As far as action series go, the John Wick series is second to none. Every instalment has manged to up the quality of the cinematography and the choreography of the action sequences, and personally I just cannot get enough of that gorgeous John Wick!
PRISONERS
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 153 mins
A gripping and genuinely intriguing crime thriller from director Denis Villeneuve that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With a strong ensemble cast and an absorbing and often quite disturbing storyline, Prisoners is easily one of the best crime thrillers that I have seen in some time.
When two young girls are abducted from a quiet neighbourhood in Pennsylvania, a massive search begins. After the police release their only suspect in the case so far, one of the disgruntled fathers of the missing girls decides to take matters into his own hands.
Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis, Terrence Howard, Maria Bello and Paul Dano all bring arresting performances to this exceptionally compelling and upsetting tale. I cannot deny that I was glued to my seat for the duration and really enjoyed all of the twists and turns as the story unfolded, Prisoners is definitely worth a watch.
FINAL SAY: Pray for the best, but prepare for the worst.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 153 mins
A gripping and genuinely intriguing crime thriller from director Denis Villeneuve that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With a strong ensemble cast and an absorbing and often quite disturbing storyline, Prisoners is easily one of the best crime thrillers that I have seen in some time.
When two young girls are abducted from a quiet neighbourhood in Pennsylvania, a massive search begins. After the police release their only suspect in the case so far, one of the disgruntled fathers of the missing girls decides to take matters into his own hands.
Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis, Terrence Howard, Maria Bello and Paul Dano all bring arresting performances to this exceptionally compelling and upsetting tale. I cannot deny that I was glued to my seat for the duration and really enjoyed all of the twists and turns as the story unfolded, Prisoners is definitely worth a watch.
FINAL SAY: Pray for the best, but prepare for the worst.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE LONE RANGER
Release Date: 2013
Rating: M
Running Time: 149 mins
An action-western directed by Gore Verbinski, and based on the 1933 radio series of the same name that outlined the adventures of a masked former Texas Ranger who fought outlaws in the Old West with his native American friend Tonto.
In this modern adaptation, Tonto (Johnny Depp) recounts the untold tales that transformed John Reid (Armie Hammer), a former man of the law, into the legend of justice that he has become.
In all honesty, this film should have been about an hour shorter than it was, there is just too much going on and most of it felt unnecessary. The reason that I still put The Lone Ranger on my list is because it is really well done, and beautifully realised in every way. Johnny Depp is exceptionally good as Tonto, pretty much stealing all of the limelight from Armie Hammer, who is also very good; and the humour and action are truly great, overall it's a very good movie. It just felt too drawn out and if only it was shorter, I think it would've been better received by critics and audiences alike. Not a life changer, but a great modern adaptation of a classic tale.
FINAL SAY: Hi ho Silver, away!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: M
Running Time: 149 mins
An action-western directed by Gore Verbinski, and based on the 1933 radio series of the same name that outlined the adventures of a masked former Texas Ranger who fought outlaws in the Old West with his native American friend Tonto.
In this modern adaptation, Tonto (Johnny Depp) recounts the untold tales that transformed John Reid (Armie Hammer), a former man of the law, into the legend of justice that he has become.
In all honesty, this film should have been about an hour shorter than it was, there is just too much going on and most of it felt unnecessary. The reason that I still put The Lone Ranger on my list is because it is really well done, and beautifully realised in every way. Johnny Depp is exceptionally good as Tonto, pretty much stealing all of the limelight from Armie Hammer, who is also very good; and the humour and action are truly great, overall it's a very good movie. It just felt too drawn out and if only it was shorter, I think it would've been better received by critics and audiences alike. Not a life changer, but a great modern adaptation of a classic tale.
FINAL SAY: Hi ho Silver, away!
3 Chilli Peppers
AMERICAN HUSTLE
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 138 mins
Directed by David Russell, this 70's crime romp based on an actual FBI undercover investigation, is a magnificent mix of madness, comedy and deception. Rife with flamboyantly dressed criminals and speckled with fabulous '70's hits, this movie is a winner from start to end, mostly due to the faultless delivery of its strong and capable cast.
Irving Rosenfeld (Christian Bale) and his seductive scamming partner (Amy Adams) are forced to assist an arrogant FBI agent (Bradley Cooper) with his plans to expose a group of New Jersey power-brokers and the mafia through the corrupt connections of Mayor Carmine Polito (Jeremy Renner).
Basically it's con-artists, criminals and Feds uncomfortably rubbing shoulders, and it's not a pretty sight. Bale, Renner and Cooper have fully committed to their hideously funny roles and Adams and Lawrence are bringing their best in every respect. This may be the most fun that I have had with a crime drama in a very long time, it's unmissable.
FINAL SAY: You're nothing to me until you're everything.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 138 mins
Directed by David Russell, this 70's crime romp based on an actual FBI undercover investigation, is a magnificent mix of madness, comedy and deception. Rife with flamboyantly dressed criminals and speckled with fabulous '70's hits, this movie is a winner from start to end, mostly due to the faultless delivery of its strong and capable cast.
Irving Rosenfeld (Christian Bale) and his seductive scamming partner (Amy Adams) are forced to assist an arrogant FBI agent (Bradley Cooper) with his plans to expose a group of New Jersey power-brokers and the mafia through the corrupt connections of Mayor Carmine Polito (Jeremy Renner).
Basically it's con-artists, criminals and Feds uncomfortably rubbing shoulders, and it's not a pretty sight. Bale, Renner and Cooper have fully committed to their hideously funny roles and Adams and Lawrence are bringing their best in every respect. This may be the most fun that I have had with a crime drama in a very long time, it's unmissable.
FINAL SAY: You're nothing to me until you're everything.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
HOW I LIVE NOW
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 101 mins
A romance film set within an apocalyptic war zone is the best way that I can summarise How I Live Now. Based on the novel of the same name by Meg Rosoff and directed by Kevin MacDonald, this film offers a glimpse into the possible effects that war might have on a group of children and adolescents that live in the British countryside.
Daisy, a maladjusted American teen is sent to the English countryside for the Summer to stay with her Aunt and three cousins. The last thing that Daisy expects to find is love, but love springs up between her and her eldest cousin Eddie just before a nuclear bomb is detonated in London and everything around the children's live changes in a heartbeat.
Most apocalyptic films are based in cities, so it was refreshing to see this sub-genre delivered in a different setting, equally I also found the youthful perspective original and interesting as well; what would coming of age in a war zone look like?
Saoirse Ronan and George MacKay received great praise for their lead roles here as the love struck teens Daisy and Eddie. To be honest, I found the transformations and behaviours of all the child actors to be quite plausible and convincing throughout, with notable performances from Tom Holland and Harley Bird as well.
It's a bitter sweet tale that is both tender and damaging, and it's definitely a good film for teenagers to see.
FINAL SAY: If the world doesn't end I wanna be here at home, with you.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 101 mins
A romance film set within an apocalyptic war zone is the best way that I can summarise How I Live Now. Based on the novel of the same name by Meg Rosoff and directed by Kevin MacDonald, this film offers a glimpse into the possible effects that war might have on a group of children and adolescents that live in the British countryside.
Daisy, a maladjusted American teen is sent to the English countryside for the Summer to stay with her Aunt and three cousins. The last thing that Daisy expects to find is love, but love springs up between her and her eldest cousin Eddie just before a nuclear bomb is detonated in London and everything around the children's live changes in a heartbeat.
Most apocalyptic films are based in cities, so it was refreshing to see this sub-genre delivered in a different setting, equally I also found the youthful perspective original and interesting as well; what would coming of age in a war zone look like?
Saoirse Ronan and George MacKay received great praise for their lead roles here as the love struck teens Daisy and Eddie. To be honest, I found the transformations and behaviours of all the child actors to be quite plausible and convincing throughout, with notable performances from Tom Holland and Harley Bird as well.
It's a bitter sweet tale that is both tender and damaging, and it's definitely a good film for teenagers to see.
FINAL SAY: If the world doesn't end I wanna be here at home, with you.
3 Chilli Peppers
END OF WATCH
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA
Running Time: 109 mins
An American crime thriller written and directed by David Ayer that focuses on the buddy cop genre, but delivers it in a fresh and authentic way. After premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, the film continued to receive accolades for it's realistic depiction of life on the streets for law enforcement officers in the LAPD and was eventually nominated for two Independent Spirit Awards.
Brian Taylor (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Miguel Zavala (Michael Pena) are close friends and partners in the Newton Division of the the Los Angeles Police Department. They begin to record their day-to-day encounters through small point of view cameras, which reveals their strong friendship and commitment to each other and also the horrors that they encounter on the streets everyday.
This is genuinely compelling and at times disturbing viewing. Gyllenhaal and Pena are fully committed to their roles, delivering powerful and believable sincerity to this gritty and intense police drama. I believe that End of Watch is an absolute must see for fans of crime drama.
FINAL SAY: I hope they enjoy our police service!
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA
Running Time: 109 mins
An American crime thriller written and directed by David Ayer that focuses on the buddy cop genre, but delivers it in a fresh and authentic way. After premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, the film continued to receive accolades for it's realistic depiction of life on the streets for law enforcement officers in the LAPD and was eventually nominated for two Independent Spirit Awards.
Brian Taylor (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Miguel Zavala (Michael Pena) are close friends and partners in the Newton Division of the the Los Angeles Police Department. They begin to record their day-to-day encounters through small point of view cameras, which reveals their strong friendship and commitment to each other and also the horrors that they encounter on the streets everyday.
This is genuinely compelling and at times disturbing viewing. Gyllenhaal and Pena are fully committed to their roles, delivering powerful and believable sincerity to this gritty and intense police drama. I believe that End of Watch is an absolute must see for fans of crime drama.
FINAL SAY: I hope they enjoy our police service!
4 Chilli Peppers
THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 140 mins
An incredibly talented cast deliver a thought provoking and powerful story; Bradley Cooper, Ryan Gosling, Rose Byrne, Eva Mendes, Ray Liotta, Ben Mendelsohn....the list just goes on and on, and they are all bringing strong and convincing depth to their characters. Director and writer Derek Cianfrance (better know for Blue Valentine) does a fantastic job of giving us an intimate view of the struggles and obligations created by fatherhood and family bonds that can push men into making poor decisions.
The story is centred on the lives of a thief and a policeman that are brought together through a fateful incident that has a rippling effect on both of their lives, and also on the lives of their families for many years to come. Spanning across two generations and demonstrated with a melancholic tone, The Place Beyond the Pines will keep you thinking from start to end with it's original script and sensitive portrayals.
FINAL SAY: One moment can change more than just your life.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 140 mins
An incredibly talented cast deliver a thought provoking and powerful story; Bradley Cooper, Ryan Gosling, Rose Byrne, Eva Mendes, Ray Liotta, Ben Mendelsohn....the list just goes on and on, and they are all bringing strong and convincing depth to their characters. Director and writer Derek Cianfrance (better know for Blue Valentine) does a fantastic job of giving us an intimate view of the struggles and obligations created by fatherhood and family bonds that can push men into making poor decisions.
The story is centred on the lives of a thief and a policeman that are brought together through a fateful incident that has a rippling effect on both of their lives, and also on the lives of their families for many years to come. Spanning across two generations and demonstrated with a melancholic tone, The Place Beyond the Pines will keep you thinking from start to end with it's original script and sensitive portrayals.
FINAL SAY: One moment can change more than just your life.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
DJANGO UNCHAINED
Release Date: 2012
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 165 mins
Quentin Tarantino continues to flex his directing muscles and demonstrate his growing maturity and keen eye for detail with Django Unchained. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, it was witty, interesting, fast paced and above all fresh, which is something that we have all confidently come to expect from Tarantino. Django Unchained was nominated for five Academy Awards, winning Best Supporting Actor for Christoph Waltz and Best original Screenplay for Tarantino; both of whom also won the Golden Globe and BAFTA for the same categories.
Set in the Old West, during the antebellum era of the Deep South, the film follows the life of Django (Jamie Foxx), a black slave and Dr. King Schultz (Waltz), an English-speaking German bounty hunter disguised as a traveling dentist. Schultz buys Django and frees him in exchange for his assistance in collecting a bounty on three outlaws. Django agrees, as long as he is offered the chance to track down his enslaved wife who is being terribly mistreated by a brutal plantation owner named Calvin J. Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio).
There is so much going on and so many brilliant performances it is difficult to know where to begin, and as with all Tarantino movies it has just as much dark humour as blood spatter effects. The cast is an amazing and reputable ensemble of quality actors, but my favourite was easily Waltz's portrayal of Dr. King Schultz whom I just straight up adored. This is the most stylized spaghetti western that you are ever going to encounter, and is definitely one to put on your must see list.
FINAL SAY: You silver tongued devil, you.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 165 mins
Quentin Tarantino continues to flex his directing muscles and demonstrate his growing maturity and keen eye for detail with Django Unchained. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, it was witty, interesting, fast paced and above all fresh, which is something that we have all confidently come to expect from Tarantino. Django Unchained was nominated for five Academy Awards, winning Best Supporting Actor for Christoph Waltz and Best original Screenplay for Tarantino; both of whom also won the Golden Globe and BAFTA for the same categories.
Set in the Old West, during the antebellum era of the Deep South, the film follows the life of Django (Jamie Foxx), a black slave and Dr. King Schultz (Waltz), an English-speaking German bounty hunter disguised as a traveling dentist. Schultz buys Django and frees him in exchange for his assistance in collecting a bounty on three outlaws. Django agrees, as long as he is offered the chance to track down his enslaved wife who is being terribly mistreated by a brutal plantation owner named Calvin J. Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio).
There is so much going on and so many brilliant performances it is difficult to know where to begin, and as with all Tarantino movies it has just as much dark humour as blood spatter effects. The cast is an amazing and reputable ensemble of quality actors, but my favourite was easily Waltz's portrayal of Dr. King Schultz whom I just straight up adored. This is the most stylized spaghetti western that you are ever going to encounter, and is definitely one to put on your must see list.
FINAL SAY: You silver tongued devil, you.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
ZERO DARK THIRTY
Release date: 2012
Rating: R 18+
Running time: 157 mins
I learnt a lot about the events surrounding the hunt for Osama Bin Laden from this movie. The lengths that the government went to were incredibly intense and are all well portrayed in this honest account of the decade-long hunt for the leader of the terrorist group - al-Qaeda.
Jessica Chastain plays Maya, a CIA operative whose determination and single-mindedness leads her to the whereabouts of Osama Bin Laden, with the help of a Navy SEAL team they close in for the kill.
Most of the film is spent in various forms of investigation and brutal interrogations, chopping around from one place to another. But the final thirty minutes of the movie bring it all together in a documentary style that suggests that you're actually watching this unfold, it's edge of your seat suspenseful.
FINAL SAY: Not a lighthearted romp, but certainly a story worth hearing.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release date: 2012
Rating: R 18+
Running time: 157 mins
I learnt a lot about the events surrounding the hunt for Osama Bin Laden from this movie. The lengths that the government went to were incredibly intense and are all well portrayed in this honest account of the decade-long hunt for the leader of the terrorist group - al-Qaeda.
Jessica Chastain plays Maya, a CIA operative whose determination and single-mindedness leads her to the whereabouts of Osama Bin Laden, with the help of a Navy SEAL team they close in for the kill.
Most of the film is spent in various forms of investigation and brutal interrogations, chopping around from one place to another. But the final thirty minutes of the movie bring it all together in a documentary style that suggests that you're actually watching this unfold, it's edge of your seat suspenseful.
FINAL SAY: Not a lighthearted romp, but certainly a story worth hearing.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
DRIVE
Release Date: 2011
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 100 mins
A neo-noir arthouse action movie, adapted from the 2005 novel by James Sallis of the same name. This slow burner is unlike any other action movie you will find on the list; but it is gripping, gritty and utterly mesmerizing with it's clever use of music and seedy atmospheres that really builds the tension levels. At the 2011 Cannes Film Festival Drive received a standing ovation, and was also nominated for Best Film at the 2012 BAFTAs.
An unnamed stunt driver (Ryan Gosling) hires himself as a getaway driver in the evenings. He becomes romantically involved with his neighbour Irene (Carey Mulligan), but the return of her ex-con husband presents more problems for them than they could have ever predicted.
The emphasis here is clearly on character development, so this movie is really 'thinking man's' action at it's best. Not for everyone, but I was utterly entranced.
FINAL SAY: Hey, you want a toothpick?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 100 mins
A neo-noir arthouse action movie, adapted from the 2005 novel by James Sallis of the same name. This slow burner is unlike any other action movie you will find on the list; but it is gripping, gritty and utterly mesmerizing with it's clever use of music and seedy atmospheres that really builds the tension levels. At the 2011 Cannes Film Festival Drive received a standing ovation, and was also nominated for Best Film at the 2012 BAFTAs.
An unnamed stunt driver (Ryan Gosling) hires himself as a getaway driver in the evenings. He becomes romantically involved with his neighbour Irene (Carey Mulligan), but the return of her ex-con husband presents more problems for them than they could have ever predicted.
The emphasis here is clearly on character development, so this movie is really 'thinking man's' action at it's best. Not for everyone, but I was utterly entranced.
FINAL SAY: Hey, you want a toothpick?
4 Chilli Peppers
BLACK DEATH
Release Date: 2010
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 102 mins
A German-British action film directed by Christopher Smith and adapted from an original screenplay by Dario Poloni about a bunch of bad-ass medieval guys on a mission from God. Steeped in religious fundamentalism and superstition, Black Death delivers an intriguing story line and a plausibly disturbing ending.
In the year 1348, most of England has been ravaged by the bubonic-plague except for one small remote village. Superstition takes hold and word gets around that a necromancer has taken over this spared village and must be brought before the clergy for questioning. A group of seasoned and devout Christian soldiers, led by an envoy for the bishop enlist the support of a local monk to assist them across the marshlands to the mysterious plague-less town.
The gore is set to stun on this film, and it probably needs to be because the 12th century was a gruesome and dangerous time to be alive. The pagan folk and the Christians really go to war here and its dirty, bloody and intensely violent to watch but also interesting and at its core quite plausible given the deeply superstitious time period that it is depicting.
The strong cast deliver well and really lift this movie with notable performances from Sean Bean, Eddie Redmayne and Carice van Houten, whom I have never seen outside of The Game of Thrones world before.
If you are looking for something grimy, action packed and medieval then look no further, you'll love what Black Death is delivering.
FINAL SAY: I am Death! Vengeance is mine! God's fury rains down on you!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2010
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 102 mins
A German-British action film directed by Christopher Smith and adapted from an original screenplay by Dario Poloni about a bunch of bad-ass medieval guys on a mission from God. Steeped in religious fundamentalism and superstition, Black Death delivers an intriguing story line and a plausibly disturbing ending.
In the year 1348, most of England has been ravaged by the bubonic-plague except for one small remote village. Superstition takes hold and word gets around that a necromancer has taken over this spared village and must be brought before the clergy for questioning. A group of seasoned and devout Christian soldiers, led by an envoy for the bishop enlist the support of a local monk to assist them across the marshlands to the mysterious plague-less town.
The gore is set to stun on this film, and it probably needs to be because the 12th century was a gruesome and dangerous time to be alive. The pagan folk and the Christians really go to war here and its dirty, bloody and intensely violent to watch but also interesting and at its core quite plausible given the deeply superstitious time period that it is depicting.
The strong cast deliver well and really lift this movie with notable performances from Sean Bean, Eddie Redmayne and Carice van Houten, whom I have never seen outside of The Game of Thrones world before.
If you are looking for something grimy, action packed and medieval then look no further, you'll love what Black Death is delivering.
FINAL SAY: I am Death! Vengeance is mine! God's fury rains down on you!
3 Chilli Peppers
INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS
Release Date: 2009
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 153 mins
Once Upon a Time....in Nazi-Occupied France; a plan to assassinate Nazi leaders by a group of Jewish U.S. soldiers coincides with a theatre owner's vengeful plans for the same.
A Tarantino powerhouse of cinema! His very best offering to date, and proof to us all that he has seriously evolved as a director. This is mature and well thought out, as funny as it is violent; and it just makes for really exciting viewing.
The characters are insanely over the top, as we've come to expect from Tarantino, and every bit as blood-thirsty; but there is also a level of 'not taking itself too seriously' about this movie that makes it really fun to watch.
Christoph Waltz is incredible as Col. Hans Landa - aka The Jew Hunter; making the mere drinking of a cup of milk horrifyingly threatening. Brad Pitt does a great job as the leader of the Basterds, Eli Roth is every bit the creepy 'batter up' as The Bear Jew and Melanie Laurent is a convincing Shosanna. Notable supports from Diane Kruger and Michael Fassbender rounds the cast out well. Step back to 1941 for a fresh perspective on World War 2, you wont be disappointed.
FINAL SAY: This is the face of Jewish vengeance!
5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2009
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 153 mins
Once Upon a Time....in Nazi-Occupied France; a plan to assassinate Nazi leaders by a group of Jewish U.S. soldiers coincides with a theatre owner's vengeful plans for the same.
A Tarantino powerhouse of cinema! His very best offering to date, and proof to us all that he has seriously evolved as a director. This is mature and well thought out, as funny as it is violent; and it just makes for really exciting viewing.
The characters are insanely over the top, as we've come to expect from Tarantino, and every bit as blood-thirsty; but there is also a level of 'not taking itself too seriously' about this movie that makes it really fun to watch.
Christoph Waltz is incredible as Col. Hans Landa - aka The Jew Hunter; making the mere drinking of a cup of milk horrifyingly threatening. Brad Pitt does a great job as the leader of the Basterds, Eli Roth is every bit the creepy 'batter up' as The Bear Jew and Melanie Laurent is a convincing Shosanna. Notable supports from Diane Kruger and Michael Fassbender rounds the cast out well. Step back to 1941 for a fresh perspective on World War 2, you wont be disappointed.
FINAL SAY: This is the face of Jewish vengeance!
5 Chilli Peppers
THE BOY IN THE STRIPED PYJAMAS
Release Date: 2008
Rating: PG
Running Time: 94 mins
A deeply touching period drama based on the novel of the same name by Irish writer John Boyne. Directed by Mark Herman, this Holocaust drama explores the horrors of a World War II Nazi extermination camp through the eyes of two young boys.
8 year old Bruno's family relocate to the country after his father receives a secret promotion - to become the commandant at a concentration camp. Bruno and his sister Gretel are strictly told to remain within the confines of their property; they receive tuition lessons from Herr Liszt who pushes a clear agenda of antisemitism and nationalist propaganda to the children. Gretel becomes increasingly fanatical in her support of the Third Reich, but Bruno just wants someone to play with. After straying beyond their property one day, he comes across a boy his own age named Schmuel, who is also restricted to the confines of his yard, often asks for food and mysteriously always wears striped pyjamas. The two become friends against the odds, both too young to understand the magnitude of what is going on around them.
This is an affecting film, and even though it isn't a terribly plausible story line, it is an interesting story line, and one that you should probably have your tissues at the ready for.
FINAL SAY: That's to stop the animals getting out, isn't it?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2008
Rating: PG
Running Time: 94 mins
A deeply touching period drama based on the novel of the same name by Irish writer John Boyne. Directed by Mark Herman, this Holocaust drama explores the horrors of a World War II Nazi extermination camp through the eyes of two young boys.
8 year old Bruno's family relocate to the country after his father receives a secret promotion - to become the commandant at a concentration camp. Bruno and his sister Gretel are strictly told to remain within the confines of their property; they receive tuition lessons from Herr Liszt who pushes a clear agenda of antisemitism and nationalist propaganda to the children. Gretel becomes increasingly fanatical in her support of the Third Reich, but Bruno just wants someone to play with. After straying beyond their property one day, he comes across a boy his own age named Schmuel, who is also restricted to the confines of his yard, often asks for food and mysteriously always wears striped pyjamas. The two become friends against the odds, both too young to understand the magnitude of what is going on around them.
This is an affecting film, and even though it isn't a terribly plausible story line, it is an interesting story line, and one that you should probably have your tissues at the ready for.
FINAL SAY: That's to stop the animals getting out, isn't it?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE HURT LOCKER
Release Date: 2008
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 131 mins
An American war drama about a three-man Explosive Ordnance Disposal (bomb disposal) team during the Iraq War. Produced and directed by Kathryn Bigelow, who also directed Zero Dark Thirty, The Hurt Locker took out six Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director, making Bigelow the first female to have won that award.
When Sergeant First Class James (Jeremy Renner) takes over an elite team of soldiers whose sole job is to disarm bombs in the heat of combat; none of them are prepared for his maverick ways of dealing with life threatening situations.
This is a tense and masterful cinematic experience, giving us a realistic and frightening view of the unnerving job that these types of experts endure on a daily basis. Jeremy Renner is incredible as the adrenaline junkie sergeant, a role that made him a household name and launched his career to the A list. There aren't a lot of must see war movies around, but this is definitely one that you shouldn't miss.
FINAL SAY: The rush of battle is often a potent and lethal addiction, for war is a drug.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2008
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 131 mins
An American war drama about a three-man Explosive Ordnance Disposal (bomb disposal) team during the Iraq War. Produced and directed by Kathryn Bigelow, who also directed Zero Dark Thirty, The Hurt Locker took out six Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director, making Bigelow the first female to have won that award.
When Sergeant First Class James (Jeremy Renner) takes over an elite team of soldiers whose sole job is to disarm bombs in the heat of combat; none of them are prepared for his maverick ways of dealing with life threatening situations.
This is a tense and masterful cinematic experience, giving us a realistic and frightening view of the unnerving job that these types of experts endure on a daily basis. Jeremy Renner is incredible as the adrenaline junkie sergeant, a role that made him a household name and launched his career to the A list. There aren't a lot of must see war movies around, but this is definitely one that you shouldn't miss.
FINAL SAY: The rush of battle is often a potent and lethal addiction, for war is a drug.
4 Chilli Peppers
DEATH PROOF
Release Date: 2007
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 114 mins
Easily the best of the Grindhouse offerings, this is a slice of retro brilliance from Tarantino. The unconventional techniques used in this film will transport you straight back the 1970's with it's rough cutaways and gritty film quality. The costumes and soundtrack add greatly to the general vibe of the movie, giving it an all around unsettling polish that works perfectly.
The story follows the events of two separate groups of girls as they are pursued by the psychopathic Stuntman Mike, portrayed with a creepy cool by Kurt Russell. Russell does a stellar job in this clear come back role, bringing all of the maniacal behaviours of Mike to reality in a gripping and hypnotic fashion.
The movie is teaming with sexy starlets, it wouldn't be Grindhouse if it wasn't, but it also has a wonderful 'power to the women' element that should not be overlooked. Stunt woman Zoe Bell will impress every man in the audience with her game of "Ship's Mast" and Vanessa Ferlito will have them shifting in their seats with her lap dance to The Coasters Down in Mexico.
FINAL SAY: Butterfly. The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2007
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 114 mins
Easily the best of the Grindhouse offerings, this is a slice of retro brilliance from Tarantino. The unconventional techniques used in this film will transport you straight back the 1970's with it's rough cutaways and gritty film quality. The costumes and soundtrack add greatly to the general vibe of the movie, giving it an all around unsettling polish that works perfectly.
The story follows the events of two separate groups of girls as they are pursued by the psychopathic Stuntman Mike, portrayed with a creepy cool by Kurt Russell. Russell does a stellar job in this clear come back role, bringing all of the maniacal behaviours of Mike to reality in a gripping and hypnotic fashion.
The movie is teaming with sexy starlets, it wouldn't be Grindhouse if it wasn't, but it also has a wonderful 'power to the women' element that should not be overlooked. Stunt woman Zoe Bell will impress every man in the audience with her game of "Ship's Mast" and Vanessa Ferlito will have them shifting in their seats with her lap dance to The Coasters Down in Mexico.
FINAL SAY: Butterfly. The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD
Release Date: 2007
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 160 mins
A western drama, written and directed by Andrew Dominik and adapted from Ron Hansen's 1983 novel of the same name, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is quite an undertaking at just under 3 hours duration. However, movie length has never been an issue for me, and when the quality and intensity are as good as this, I rather like the added length, it can be a lot like savoring a good whiskey or smoking a decent cigar, there is no need to rush things.
The story outlines the starstruck endeavors of Robert Ford (Casey Affleck) as he desperately attempts to get closer to Jesse James (Brad Pitt). Through his brother Charley (Sam Rockwell), Ford manages to infiltrate the gang, and all of the gang members quickly realise that he is infatuated with James, even Jesse himself seems keenly aware, and thus begins the most oddly hypnotic and utterly mesmerizing dance of death that has been made to date, all set against the back drop of vast western horizons with tough guys perched on horses.
I must say I loved this movie, I thought that the performances were incredible. No-one is faltering here, everyone is solid and I suppose that they cannot afford to be anything else since there is a real 'under the microscope' feel to this film that only decent actors could fulfill. It is an intense slow burner that was never created for mass appeal, but if you can afford to sit with this, then it is well worth your time.
FINAL SAY: Do you want to be like me, or do you want to be me?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2007
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 160 mins
A western drama, written and directed by Andrew Dominik and adapted from Ron Hansen's 1983 novel of the same name, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is quite an undertaking at just under 3 hours duration. However, movie length has never been an issue for me, and when the quality and intensity are as good as this, I rather like the added length, it can be a lot like savoring a good whiskey or smoking a decent cigar, there is no need to rush things.
The story outlines the starstruck endeavors of Robert Ford (Casey Affleck) as he desperately attempts to get closer to Jesse James (Brad Pitt). Through his brother Charley (Sam Rockwell), Ford manages to infiltrate the gang, and all of the gang members quickly realise that he is infatuated with James, even Jesse himself seems keenly aware, and thus begins the most oddly hypnotic and utterly mesmerizing dance of death that has been made to date, all set against the back drop of vast western horizons with tough guys perched on horses.
I must say I loved this movie, I thought that the performances were incredible. No-one is faltering here, everyone is solid and I suppose that they cannot afford to be anything else since there is a real 'under the microscope' feel to this film that only decent actors could fulfill. It is an intense slow burner that was never created for mass appeal, but if you can afford to sit with this, then it is well worth your time.
FINAL SAY: Do you want to be like me, or do you want to be me?
4 Chilli Peppers
NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN
Release Date: 2007
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 122 mins
Ethan and Joel Cohen rise to the highest of heights with this gripping and intense western-crime drama. Based on the novel by Cormac McCarthy (author of The Road), this is a frighteningly bleak movie. Filmed mostly in the desert and having virtually no soundtrack, apart from a mere 16 mins total of ambient music, this film creates a haunting atmosphere that will have you entranced.
A hunter (Josh Brolin) stumbles upon two million dollars in cash - the remnants of a drug deal gone sour; which he takes. A creepy hired hit-man named Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem) is looking to recover the money, however Anton also happens to be a pretty twisted psychopath, which makes things a little more complicated. Add in a Sheriff (Tommy Lee Jones) that is trying to find both men, and you have yourself an excellent cat and mouse movie full of plot twists and intrigue.
Javier Bardem is so evil in this movie, it's terrifying. Every time he is on screen you just know its going to be bad, but you are never sure of how far he will take it. Brolin and Lee Jones are equally fabulous; and Woody Harrelson is genuinely good in his small but significant role as Carson Wells.
FINAL SAY: What's the most you ever lost on a coin toss?
5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2007
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 122 mins
Ethan and Joel Cohen rise to the highest of heights with this gripping and intense western-crime drama. Based on the novel by Cormac McCarthy (author of The Road), this is a frighteningly bleak movie. Filmed mostly in the desert and having virtually no soundtrack, apart from a mere 16 mins total of ambient music, this film creates a haunting atmosphere that will have you entranced.
A hunter (Josh Brolin) stumbles upon two million dollars in cash - the remnants of a drug deal gone sour; which he takes. A creepy hired hit-man named Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem) is looking to recover the money, however Anton also happens to be a pretty twisted psychopath, which makes things a little more complicated. Add in a Sheriff (Tommy Lee Jones) that is trying to find both men, and you have yourself an excellent cat and mouse movie full of plot twists and intrigue.
Javier Bardem is so evil in this movie, it's terrifying. Every time he is on screen you just know its going to be bad, but you are never sure of how far he will take it. Brolin and Lee Jones are equally fabulous; and Woody Harrelson is genuinely good in his small but significant role as Carson Wells.
FINAL SAY: What's the most you ever lost on a coin toss?
5 Chilli Peppers
BABEL
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 143 mins
This film has four seemingly unrelated stories running along side of one another, however as the movie advances, the stories become interlocked and connected, telling one complete tale.
Everything begins with one bullet. A bullet that is fired at a bus tour group, travelling through Morocco. The implications from this bullet are so vast that the ripples carry out across the globe, affecting people in America, Mexico and Japan.
This is a spellbinding crime-drama, with multifaceted story lines and passionate performances. The cast is utterly massive, the different locations are stunning and the entire movie will have you shifting in your seat from emotional overload.
Cate Blanchett and Brad Pitt rise to the occasion, making an extremely convincing couple; and Gael Garcia Bernal is as strong as ever in his Mexican douchebag role. There is lot going on in this movie, and its complexity is what makes it so damn good.
FINAL SAY: Tragedy is universal.
5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 143 mins
This film has four seemingly unrelated stories running along side of one another, however as the movie advances, the stories become interlocked and connected, telling one complete tale.
Everything begins with one bullet. A bullet that is fired at a bus tour group, travelling through Morocco. The implications from this bullet are so vast that the ripples carry out across the globe, affecting people in America, Mexico and Japan.
This is a spellbinding crime-drama, with multifaceted story lines and passionate performances. The cast is utterly massive, the different locations are stunning and the entire movie will have you shifting in your seat from emotional overload.
Cate Blanchett and Brad Pitt rise to the occasion, making an extremely convincing couple; and Gael Garcia Bernal is as strong as ever in his Mexican douchebag role. There is lot going on in this movie, and its complexity is what makes it so damn good.
FINAL SAY: Tragedy is universal.
5 Chilli Peppers
CHILDREN OF MEN
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 109 mins
Based on P.D. James' novel of the same name and directed by Alfonso Cuaron, this science fiction thriller has the perfect mix of edge of your seat action blended with an intensely thought-provoking script.
Set in 2027, humanity hangs on the brink of extinction after two decades of infertility. A formidable warden oversees Britain in an attempt to restore order to the chaotic state of affairs, and rising problems with illegal immigration. However, the discovery of a pregnant woman threatens his status, but holds great hope for the salvation of humanity. A desperate journey ensues as a former activist and a band of willing supporters attempts to get the woman to sanctuary to give birth to her child.
This is high quality viewing, the dystopian future is believable and the tension is rife. This would be the best pursuit film that I have ever seen, the action is impeccably played out and the events unfold with an intense reality that is gripping to the very last moments. A stellar cast, that includes Julianne Moore, Clive Owen, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Michael Caine, are bringing their absolute best and the acting is faultless.
I was completely riveted and deeply moved by this film, it is a definite must see. If you haven't seen it yet, make the time, it's utterly amazing.
FINAL SAY: Protect Kee!
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 109 mins
Based on P.D. James' novel of the same name and directed by Alfonso Cuaron, this science fiction thriller has the perfect mix of edge of your seat action blended with an intensely thought-provoking script.
Set in 2027, humanity hangs on the brink of extinction after two decades of infertility. A formidable warden oversees Britain in an attempt to restore order to the chaotic state of affairs, and rising problems with illegal immigration. However, the discovery of a pregnant woman threatens his status, but holds great hope for the salvation of humanity. A desperate journey ensues as a former activist and a band of willing supporters attempts to get the woman to sanctuary to give birth to her child.
This is high quality viewing, the dystopian future is believable and the tension is rife. This would be the best pursuit film that I have ever seen, the action is impeccably played out and the events unfold with an intense reality that is gripping to the very last moments. A stellar cast, that includes Julianne Moore, Clive Owen, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Michael Caine, are bringing their absolute best and the acting is faultless.
I was completely riveted and deeply moved by this film, it is a definite must see. If you haven't seen it yet, make the time, it's utterly amazing.
FINAL SAY: Protect Kee!
4.5 Chilli Peppers
BLOOD DIAMOND
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 143 mins
A political war thriller directed by Edward Zwick. This movie derives it's title name from the diamonds that have been mined in war zones and sold to finance rebel conflict efforts, which in turn profits warlords and diamond companies around the world. Although the film plays out in an almost formulaic way, it still delivers completely. The action scenes are thrilling, the danger is believable, the atrocities of the civil war are disturbing and the overall message being sent out will hopefully make people think twice before they go out and purchase a big fat rock to stick on their finger.
It is 1999 in Sierra-Leone, a country torn apart by political unrest and Civil War. Fisherman Solomon Vandy's (Djimon Hounsou) village is invaded by rebels who kidnap him and force him to work in their mines. Soon after, Solomon stumbles upon a huge pink diamond which he hides, however the rebels are attacked and Solomon ends up in jail before he can reclaim the stone. In jail Solomon meets a mercenary smuggler named Archer (Leonardo DiCaprio) and together the two men set out on a dangerous quest to recover the hidden diamond, a journey that can save Solomon's enslaved family and give Archer the second chance that he needs.
Hounsou and DiCaprio are sensational from start to end here, really embodying all of the desperation and heartache that this intensely harrowing tale delivers. DiCaprio's accent is (contrary to all the haters) very well done, and there is an undeniably powerful narrative being addressed that will touch even the hardest of hearts.
FINAL SAY: You will come home with me and be my son again.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 143 mins
A political war thriller directed by Edward Zwick. This movie derives it's title name from the diamonds that have been mined in war zones and sold to finance rebel conflict efforts, which in turn profits warlords and diamond companies around the world. Although the film plays out in an almost formulaic way, it still delivers completely. The action scenes are thrilling, the danger is believable, the atrocities of the civil war are disturbing and the overall message being sent out will hopefully make people think twice before they go out and purchase a big fat rock to stick on their finger.
It is 1999 in Sierra-Leone, a country torn apart by political unrest and Civil War. Fisherman Solomon Vandy's (Djimon Hounsou) village is invaded by rebels who kidnap him and force him to work in their mines. Soon after, Solomon stumbles upon a huge pink diamond which he hides, however the rebels are attacked and Solomon ends up in jail before he can reclaim the stone. In jail Solomon meets a mercenary smuggler named Archer (Leonardo DiCaprio) and together the two men set out on a dangerous quest to recover the hidden diamond, a journey that can save Solomon's enslaved family and give Archer the second chance that he needs.
Hounsou and DiCaprio are sensational from start to end here, really embodying all of the desperation and heartache that this intensely harrowing tale delivers. DiCaprio's accent is (contrary to all the haters) very well done, and there is an undeniably powerful narrative being addressed that will touch even the hardest of hearts.
FINAL SAY: You will come home with me and be my son again.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
300
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 117 mins
Zack Snyder brings a visual feast of man flesh and stylized gore to the big screen with 300. Based on the story of the fierce 300 Spartan warriors that held back the Persian army at Thermopylae in 480 B.C. this movie is a visually lush extravaganza.
If you don't like blood then this is not for you. The blood flows thick and fast, as the ruthless 300 take to the battlefields looking for a way to die with honour, as they are bred to do. The cinematography is shot mainly in black, white, sepia and red adding beautifully to the stark drama and overall feel of the film.
Gerard Butler is at his best as the brave and loyal leader King Leonidas, Michael Fassbender is ridiculously divine as Stelios and Rodrigo Santoro is unrecognisable as the God-like Xerxes. This is a sensational feast for the eyes and an excellent retelling of an interesting slice of Grecian history. Gore at it's bloody finest!
FINAL SAY: THIS IS SPARTA!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 117 mins
Zack Snyder brings a visual feast of man flesh and stylized gore to the big screen with 300. Based on the story of the fierce 300 Spartan warriors that held back the Persian army at Thermopylae in 480 B.C. this movie is a visually lush extravaganza.
If you don't like blood then this is not for you. The blood flows thick and fast, as the ruthless 300 take to the battlefields looking for a way to die with honour, as they are bred to do. The cinematography is shot mainly in black, white, sepia and red adding beautifully to the stark drama and overall feel of the film.
Gerard Butler is at his best as the brave and loyal leader King Leonidas, Michael Fassbender is ridiculously divine as Stelios and Rodrigo Santoro is unrecognisable as the God-like Xerxes. This is a sensational feast for the eyes and an excellent retelling of an interesting slice of Grecian history. Gore at it's bloody finest!
FINAL SAY: THIS IS SPARTA!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
APOCALYPTO
Release Date: 2006
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 139 mins
If you're in the mood for some fast paced, high energy, violence driven action, then this is the movie for you! Mel Gibson skillfully presents all of the beauty and terror of a declining Mayan Kingdom with a heart thumping action movie that is set to unnerve and disturb.
When young Jaguar Paw is captured and his tribe ravaged, he faces the grim prospect of being sold into slavery or sacrificed to the Mayan Gods. But Jaguar Paw has a young family waiting for him and he is not willing to go down without a fight.
The atmosphere is thick in this movie, the atrocities and hardships are acute and the gore is set to stun. But this is such a truly interesting story and a fascinating depiction of tribal life that you can't help being riveted from start to end.
The Mayan costuming and sets are utterly amazing and really added to the visual appeal, but it's the skillful and cardio-savvy natives that are stealing all the glory here.
FINAL SAY: Ancient brutality.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 139 mins
If you're in the mood for some fast paced, high energy, violence driven action, then this is the movie for you! Mel Gibson skillfully presents all of the beauty and terror of a declining Mayan Kingdom with a heart thumping action movie that is set to unnerve and disturb.
When young Jaguar Paw is captured and his tribe ravaged, he faces the grim prospect of being sold into slavery or sacrificed to the Mayan Gods. But Jaguar Paw has a young family waiting for him and he is not willing to go down without a fight.
The atmosphere is thick in this movie, the atrocities and hardships are acute and the gore is set to stun. But this is such a truly interesting story and a fascinating depiction of tribal life that you can't help being riveted from start to end.
The Mayan costuming and sets are utterly amazing and really added to the visual appeal, but it's the skillful and cardio-savvy natives that are stealing all the glory here.
FINAL SAY: Ancient brutality.
4 Chilli Peppers
CASINO ROYALE
Release Date: 2006
Rating: M
Running Time: 144 mins
Martin Campbell has completely resurrected the James Bond series from the ashes; Agent 007 is back and finally being portrayed in the truest interpretation I have ever seen. This movie oozes style and sophistication, it is fast paced, energetic and beautifully shot in every respect.
It's a die hard Bond fan's wet dream, and probably many women's too with Daniel Craig fleshing out his role with tonnes of manly charisma and just enough ruggedness to make the ladies swoon. He's a mans man and ladies man, just as Bond should be.
In Casino Royale we see Bond attempting to take down a weapons dealer in a high stakes game of poker, but in true Bond style, things are never as they seem and we find ourselves riding out the plot twists and all of the espionage that makes these stories so thrilling.
Eva Green is stunningly beautiful as Bond's love interest and Judy Dench makes a mighty fine M. This installment was so superior in every way that the following efforts just couldn't shine so brightly in my opinion, it is sophisticated cinema at its best.
FINAL SAY: Aces are high.
5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: M
Running Time: 144 mins
Martin Campbell has completely resurrected the James Bond series from the ashes; Agent 007 is back and finally being portrayed in the truest interpretation I have ever seen. This movie oozes style and sophistication, it is fast paced, energetic and beautifully shot in every respect.
It's a die hard Bond fan's wet dream, and probably many women's too with Daniel Craig fleshing out his role with tonnes of manly charisma and just enough ruggedness to make the ladies swoon. He's a mans man and ladies man, just as Bond should be.
In Casino Royale we see Bond attempting to take down a weapons dealer in a high stakes game of poker, but in true Bond style, things are never as they seem and we find ourselves riding out the plot twists and all of the espionage that makes these stories so thrilling.
Eva Green is stunningly beautiful as Bond's love interest and Judy Dench makes a mighty fine M. This installment was so superior in every way that the following efforts just couldn't shine so brightly in my opinion, it is sophisticated cinema at its best.
FINAL SAY: Aces are high.
5 Chilli Peppers
LORD OF WAR
Release Date: 2005
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 122 mins
A crime-war drama; written, produced and directed by Andrew Niccol, Lord of War was officially endorsed by the human rights group Amnesty International for highlighting arms trafficking by the international arms industry.
The story revolves around Yuri Orlov (Nicholas Cage) an opportunist who rises from small-time gun distributor to become an international arms dealer. By following his experiences both on and off and the job, we get a disturbing portrait of a man with extremely questionable morals and a relentless lust for power.
This is the best that I have seen from Nicholas Cage, his performance as Yuri Orlov is powerful and convincing, and I really liked his narration as well. Admittedly, he is extremely well supported by Jared Leto and Ethan Hawke who also give flawless performances; and the combination of these three actors is truly riveting.
Overall, this is a stylish and substantial look at the corrupt world of arms dealing during the 80's and 90's that definitely warrants a viewing.
FINAL SAY: There are two types of tragedies in life. One is not getting what you want, the other is getting it.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2005
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 122 mins
A crime-war drama; written, produced and directed by Andrew Niccol, Lord of War was officially endorsed by the human rights group Amnesty International for highlighting arms trafficking by the international arms industry.
The story revolves around Yuri Orlov (Nicholas Cage) an opportunist who rises from small-time gun distributor to become an international arms dealer. By following his experiences both on and off and the job, we get a disturbing portrait of a man with extremely questionable morals and a relentless lust for power.
This is the best that I have seen from Nicholas Cage, his performance as Yuri Orlov is powerful and convincing, and I really liked his narration as well. Admittedly, he is extremely well supported by Jared Leto and Ethan Hawke who also give flawless performances; and the combination of these three actors is truly riveting.
Overall, this is a stylish and substantial look at the corrupt world of arms dealing during the 80's and 90's that definitely warrants a viewing.
FINAL SAY: There are two types of tragedies in life. One is not getting what you want, the other is getting it.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
SIN CITY
Release Date: 2005
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 124 mins
If you like neo-noir action thrillers than this movie is for you. Directed by Robert Rodriguez, Quentin Tarantino and Frank Miller, and based on Frank Miller's graphic novel series Sin City, this is a rich and beautifully realised depiction of an American city called Basin City that's teaming with gun-toting sexy broads, boozy renegades and gutsy mercenaries. Shot with a unique colour processing fashion which renders most of the film in black and white, apart from some select items that are starkly retained to full colour to add a pop of contrast and effect. This effect was greatly received by critics and landed Sin City a Technical Grand Prize at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival for it's visual shaping.
The story follows three interweaving story lines. One story focuses on a muscular tough guy searching for the person responsible for killing his beloved Goldie. Another story tells a tale about a man that is fed up with the corrupt law enforcement in the city and decides to take matters into his own hands, and another story focuses on a cop that is willing to risk his life to protect a girl from a deformed pedophile.
The cast is slick and stellar, including Bruce Willis, Clive Owen, Rosario Dawson, Jessica Alba and Benicio Del Toro, to name but a few, but it was Mickey Rourke's portrayal of bullet proof Marv that stole all the limelight here, a role that clearly resurrected his career from the ashes.
This is not like anything I have seen before, it's grimy and nasty and yet so intensely beautiful at the same time. The second instalment released in 2014, Sin City - A Dame to Kill For just couldn't maintain the brilliance of the first, skip it and just enjoy the first one for of its visual pleasures and disturbing behaviours.
FINAL SAY: The most beautifully stylized graphic novel ever.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2005
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 124 mins
If you like neo-noir action thrillers than this movie is for you. Directed by Robert Rodriguez, Quentin Tarantino and Frank Miller, and based on Frank Miller's graphic novel series Sin City, this is a rich and beautifully realised depiction of an American city called Basin City that's teaming with gun-toting sexy broads, boozy renegades and gutsy mercenaries. Shot with a unique colour processing fashion which renders most of the film in black and white, apart from some select items that are starkly retained to full colour to add a pop of contrast and effect. This effect was greatly received by critics and landed Sin City a Technical Grand Prize at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival for it's visual shaping.
The story follows three interweaving story lines. One story focuses on a muscular tough guy searching for the person responsible for killing his beloved Goldie. Another story tells a tale about a man that is fed up with the corrupt law enforcement in the city and decides to take matters into his own hands, and another story focuses on a cop that is willing to risk his life to protect a girl from a deformed pedophile.
The cast is slick and stellar, including Bruce Willis, Clive Owen, Rosario Dawson, Jessica Alba and Benicio Del Toro, to name but a few, but it was Mickey Rourke's portrayal of bullet proof Marv that stole all the limelight here, a role that clearly resurrected his career from the ashes.
This is not like anything I have seen before, it's grimy and nasty and yet so intensely beautiful at the same time. The second instalment released in 2014, Sin City - A Dame to Kill For just couldn't maintain the brilliance of the first, skip it and just enjoy the first one for of its visual pleasures and disturbing behaviours.
FINAL SAY: The most beautifully stylized graphic novel ever.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
KILL BILL VOL 1 & 2
Release Dates: 2003 and 2004
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 248 mins total
A two part martial arts film written and directed by the king of gore based action films, Quentin Tarantino. Initially set for a single theatrical release, the movie was divided into two films due to its run time of over four hours. Both Kill Bill volumes received a massive cult following and were universally appreciated for their highly stylized approach to violence and revenge.
A former assassin, simply known as 'the bride' (Uma Thurman) seeks her revenge on her former colleagues and their notorious leader Bill (David Carradine) after they attempt to kill her and her unborn child.
This is the finest mixture of uber cool and ultra crazy characters to ever have been brought together; this is clearly a Tarantino homage to classic Kung Fu movies and 60's and 70's splatter based gore-porn. But it works, it really works; it's entertaining, interesting, well cast, artistically thoughtful and visually pleasing.
A lot of people thought that the second movie was not as good as the first, which I completely disagree with, and although the tone does change, the second movie doesn't lose its momentum or vision. These are must see movies for serious action film lovers.
FINAL SAY: You and I have unfinished business.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Dates: 2003 and 2004
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 248 mins total
A two part martial arts film written and directed by the king of gore based action films, Quentin Tarantino. Initially set for a single theatrical release, the movie was divided into two films due to its run time of over four hours. Both Kill Bill volumes received a massive cult following and were universally appreciated for their highly stylized approach to violence and revenge.
A former assassin, simply known as 'the bride' (Uma Thurman) seeks her revenge on her former colleagues and their notorious leader Bill (David Carradine) after they attempt to kill her and her unborn child.
This is the finest mixture of uber cool and ultra crazy characters to ever have been brought together; this is clearly a Tarantino homage to classic Kung Fu movies and 60's and 70's splatter based gore-porn. But it works, it really works; it's entertaining, interesting, well cast, artistically thoughtful and visually pleasing.
A lot of people thought that the second movie was not as good as the first, which I completely disagree with, and although the tone does change, the second movie doesn't lose its momentum or vision. These are must see movies for serious action film lovers.
FINAL SAY: You and I have unfinished business.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
THE PIANIST
Release Date: 2002
Rating: R 18 +
Running Time: 150 mins
Directed by Roman Polanski, this historical autobiography is based on the real life memoirs of Polish-Jewish pianist and composer Wladyslaw Szpilman. Adrien Brody deservingly won Best Actor at the 75th Academy Awards for his stirring depiction of Szpilman and Polanski slammed both the BAFTA and the Academy Award for Best Director, and the movie also took out the Palme d'Or award in the same year.
Set between 1939 and 1945 in Warsaw during WWII, we witness the harrowing events surrounding Wladyslaw Szpilman's fight for survival as he hides among the rubble and ruin of the Warsaw ghettos, trying to keep himself concealed and away from the concentration prisoner camps.
Watching Szpilman (Brody) literally wilt as the movie progresses is hard going and the events that occur are cruel and stark. But this doesn't feel fabricated or exaggerated in any way, this movie is not about heroism it's about survival and it plays out beautifully. I think that this is one of the most detailed and shocking accounts of the treatment of Jewish people by the Nazis that has ever been made to date. The music and atmosphere is palpable, making The Pianist the most touching and realistic account of the holocaust that you will ever encounter; a definite must see movie.
FINAL SAY: They all want to be better Nazis than Hitler.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2002
Rating: R 18 +
Running Time: 150 mins
Directed by Roman Polanski, this historical autobiography is based on the real life memoirs of Polish-Jewish pianist and composer Wladyslaw Szpilman. Adrien Brody deservingly won Best Actor at the 75th Academy Awards for his stirring depiction of Szpilman and Polanski slammed both the BAFTA and the Academy Award for Best Director, and the movie also took out the Palme d'Or award in the same year.
Set between 1939 and 1945 in Warsaw during WWII, we witness the harrowing events surrounding Wladyslaw Szpilman's fight for survival as he hides among the rubble and ruin of the Warsaw ghettos, trying to keep himself concealed and away from the concentration prisoner camps.
Watching Szpilman (Brody) literally wilt as the movie progresses is hard going and the events that occur are cruel and stark. But this doesn't feel fabricated or exaggerated in any way, this movie is not about heroism it's about survival and it plays out beautifully. I think that this is one of the most detailed and shocking accounts of the treatment of Jewish people by the Nazis that has ever been made to date. The music and atmosphere is palpable, making The Pianist the most touching and realistic account of the holocaust that you will ever encounter; a definite must see movie.
FINAL SAY: They all want to be better Nazis than Hitler.
4 Chilli Peppers
BLOW
Release Date: 2001
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 124 mins
Based on the real life stories of George Jung, Pablo Escobar, Carlos Lehder Rivas and the Medellin Cartel, Blow was adapted from Bruce Porter's 1993 book entitled Blow: How a Small Town Boy Made $100 Million with the Medellin Cocaine Cartel and Lost It All.
We follow Jung (Johnny Depp) from his humble beginnings in the 1970's, as he transforms his life and becomes the world's premiere importer of cocaine from Colombia into the United States, witnessing the extreme high and lows that occurred along the way.
Johnny Depp and Penelope Cruz really made this movie for me, they were horrifically good as a junkie couple and the dramatics of their relationship was what kept me watching. Because this is a true story, it has a little more punch than your average drug retell movie, and was overall a lot more informative about cocaine and the Colombian drug cartel.
FINAL SAY: It was the greatest feeling I ever had. Followed abruptly by the worst feeling I ever had.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2001
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 124 mins
Based on the real life stories of George Jung, Pablo Escobar, Carlos Lehder Rivas and the Medellin Cartel, Blow was adapted from Bruce Porter's 1993 book entitled Blow: How a Small Town Boy Made $100 Million with the Medellin Cocaine Cartel and Lost It All.
We follow Jung (Johnny Depp) from his humble beginnings in the 1970's, as he transforms his life and becomes the world's premiere importer of cocaine from Colombia into the United States, witnessing the extreme high and lows that occurred along the way.
Johnny Depp and Penelope Cruz really made this movie for me, they were horrifically good as a junkie couple and the dramatics of their relationship was what kept me watching. Because this is a true story, it has a little more punch than your average drug retell movie, and was overall a lot more informative about cocaine and the Colombian drug cartel.
FINAL SAY: It was the greatest feeling I ever had. Followed abruptly by the worst feeling I ever had.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
MEMENTO
Release Date: 2000
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 113 mins
An American neo-noir psychological thriller directed by Christopher Nolan. Memento gained a lot of critical attention for its non-linear narrative, the movie actually runs with two different narratives, played out simultaneously, one in black and white which is shown in chronological order and the other in colour which plays in reverse order, both sequences meet at the end to produce one cohesive narrative, and the effect is quite brilliant.
Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce) suffers from anterograde amnesia and is unable to store memories. Each day Shelby must try to piece together his life whilst he tries to track down the men that murdered his wife, using only a few Polaroids, tattoos that he has marked himself with and some notes that he has compiled.
This is a fascinating drama, it's like trying to put together a puzzle or solve a very tricky riddle, and for that reason, it is really a one time only kind of movie, once you know - you know. One of the best examples of memory loss, paranoia and warped perception melded with grief that has ever been made, definitely a must see movie.
FINAL SAY: If we can't make memories, we can't heal.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 113 mins
An American neo-noir psychological thriller directed by Christopher Nolan. Memento gained a lot of critical attention for its non-linear narrative, the movie actually runs with two different narratives, played out simultaneously, one in black and white which is shown in chronological order and the other in colour which plays in reverse order, both sequences meet at the end to produce one cohesive narrative, and the effect is quite brilliant.
Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce) suffers from anterograde amnesia and is unable to store memories. Each day Shelby must try to piece together his life whilst he tries to track down the men that murdered his wife, using only a few Polaroids, tattoos that he has marked himself with and some notes that he has compiled.
This is a fascinating drama, it's like trying to put together a puzzle or solve a very tricky riddle, and for that reason, it is really a one time only kind of movie, once you know - you know. One of the best examples of memory loss, paranoia and warped perception melded with grief that has ever been made, definitely a must see movie.
FINAL SAY: If we can't make memories, we can't heal.
4 Chilli Peppers
SNATCH
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 102 mins
Before Guy Ritchie sold his soul (and integrity) and married Madonna; he was making really great movies like this one. Following in the success of Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, we are again thrown into a world of British thuggery and small time gangsters in Snatch.
Turkish (Jason Statham) and his best friend Tommy get pulled into organizing a fight for the psychotic gangster Brick Top. When the fight goes wrong, the boys soon become involved with the Pikeys and Mikey (Brad Pitt) who just wants a caravan for his ma. Now throw in some British thugs, a bullet-dodging Russian hit-man, a Jewish jewel thief with four fingers, some amateur robbers with a hungry dog and a priceless stolen diamond; and you've got the makings of one giant fuck-up.
Yep, it's bloody complicated and hysterically funny to watch the dramatics unfold. This is clever story telling, lots of action and a heap of things happening simultaneously. Not hard to follow, but you do need to pay attention or you'll miss all of the little loops and cross overs as the different plot lines collide.
FINAL SAY: Five minutes, Turkish.
5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 102 mins
Before Guy Ritchie sold his soul (and integrity) and married Madonna; he was making really great movies like this one. Following in the success of Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, we are again thrown into a world of British thuggery and small time gangsters in Snatch.
Turkish (Jason Statham) and his best friend Tommy get pulled into organizing a fight for the psychotic gangster Brick Top. When the fight goes wrong, the boys soon become involved with the Pikeys and Mikey (Brad Pitt) who just wants a caravan for his ma. Now throw in some British thugs, a bullet-dodging Russian hit-man, a Jewish jewel thief with four fingers, some amateur robbers with a hungry dog and a priceless stolen diamond; and you've got the makings of one giant fuck-up.
Yep, it's bloody complicated and hysterically funny to watch the dramatics unfold. This is clever story telling, lots of action and a heap of things happening simultaneously. Not hard to follow, but you do need to pay attention or you'll miss all of the little loops and cross overs as the different plot lines collide.
FINAL SAY: Five minutes, Turkish.
5 Chilli Peppers
GLADIATOR
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 155 mins
There is no denying it, this is Russell Crowe's finest hour. Turns out that an Aussie can make a somewhat convincing Roman general in a period drama, who would have thought it? But it is the truth, Ridley Scott's epic depiction of the savage and bloodthirsty time of the Romans around AD 180 is extremely exciting and action packed, and a definite must see for fans of gore based action.
The story centres on the Roman general Maximus who gets caught up in a power struggle after he is made heir to the throne over the Emperor's own son. The results are devastating; Maximus is stripped of his rank, loses his family and eventually his freedom. After being sold into slavery he eventually becomes a gladiator, driven by the possibility that he will be able to meet his tormentor face to face one more time.
Gladiator swept the 73rd Academy Awards taking out Best Picture and Best Actor in a lead role (for Russell Crowe) which very rarely ever happens any more. It was also a smash at the BAFTAs and the Golden Globes, and has had huge worldwide critical acclaim, surely I have convinced you to see it by now?
FINAL SAY: What we do in life...echoes in eternity.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 155 mins
There is no denying it, this is Russell Crowe's finest hour. Turns out that an Aussie can make a somewhat convincing Roman general in a period drama, who would have thought it? But it is the truth, Ridley Scott's epic depiction of the savage and bloodthirsty time of the Romans around AD 180 is extremely exciting and action packed, and a definite must see for fans of gore based action.
The story centres on the Roman general Maximus who gets caught up in a power struggle after he is made heir to the throne over the Emperor's own son. The results are devastating; Maximus is stripped of his rank, loses his family and eventually his freedom. After being sold into slavery he eventually becomes a gladiator, driven by the possibility that he will be able to meet his tormentor face to face one more time.
Gladiator swept the 73rd Academy Awards taking out Best Picture and Best Actor in a lead role (for Russell Crowe) which very rarely ever happens any more. It was also a smash at the BAFTAs and the Golden Globes, and has had huge worldwide critical acclaim, surely I have convinced you to see it by now?
FINAL SAY: What we do in life...echoes in eternity.
4 Chilli Peppers
SEXY BEAST
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 89 mins
A British-Spanish crime drama and a spectacular directing debut from Jonathon Glazer, who went onto direct Birth and Under the Skin, both of which I also have on my genre lists because they are brilliant. This tale about Cockney, ill-tempered gangsters completely reeled me in. I was shocked to see Ben Kingsley playing such a convincing villain, we've all seen Ray Winston being bad before, but Kingsley? New ground indeed.
An ex-con and retired safe-cracking gangster (Winstone) is forcibly coerced away from his idyllic villa and adoring wife to perform one last job for a brutal gangster named Don Logan (Kinglsey).
Why Ben Kinglsey didn't get an Oscar for his performance here is beyond me, this role was so unashamedly ruthless and he carried it off with 100% conviction, completely altering my view of him as an actor forever after. This is a crude and intense crime drama, and for that reason it may not be to everyone's tastes, but for those of you that can handle a little more 'R' in your 'R' rated movies, don't miss this one.
FINAL SAY: I won't let you be happy, why should I?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 89 mins
A British-Spanish crime drama and a spectacular directing debut from Jonathon Glazer, who went onto direct Birth and Under the Skin, both of which I also have on my genre lists because they are brilliant. This tale about Cockney, ill-tempered gangsters completely reeled me in. I was shocked to see Ben Kingsley playing such a convincing villain, we've all seen Ray Winston being bad before, but Kingsley? New ground indeed.
An ex-con and retired safe-cracking gangster (Winstone) is forcibly coerced away from his idyllic villa and adoring wife to perform one last job for a brutal gangster named Don Logan (Kinglsey).
Why Ben Kinglsey didn't get an Oscar for his performance here is beyond me, this role was so unashamedly ruthless and he carried it off with 100% conviction, completely altering my view of him as an actor forever after. This is a crude and intense crime drama, and for that reason it may not be to everyone's tastes, but for those of you that can handle a little more 'R' in your 'R' rated movies, don't miss this one.
FINAL SAY: I won't let you be happy, why should I?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
BATTLE ROYALE
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 114 mins
Long before The Hunger Games were even heard of, kids were being pitted against each other for blood sports in Battle Royale. A Japanese action thriller based on the novel by Koushun Takami and directed by Kinji Fukasaku, Battle Royale aroused both domestic and international controversy due to it's contents and theme, which was viewed by members of the Japanese parliament as 'crude and tasteless.'
A group of Japanese middle school students are taken out on a field trip, only to be gassed, fitted with electronic collars and sent to briefing room on a remote island. They soon discover that they have been selected to participate in the annual Battle Royale under the BR Act, which means that they have three days to kill each other until only one winner remains. The collars serve to kill uncooperative students or those that stumble into the 'danger' zones. With only a ration pack and a randomly chosen weapon, that can range from a firearm to a saucepan lid, the confused fifteen year old students begin their forced slaying of each other.
In spite of all of the controversy surrounding the film, it has been highly acclaimed by critics in the Western World, with comparisons being made to Lord of the Flies and A Clockwork Orange. Love it or hate it, Battle Royale is a provocative masterpiece of mayhem and is definitely worthy of at least one viewing in everyone's lifetime.
FINAL SAY: Life is a game. So fight for survival and see if you're worth it.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 114 mins
Long before The Hunger Games were even heard of, kids were being pitted against each other for blood sports in Battle Royale. A Japanese action thriller based on the novel by Koushun Takami and directed by Kinji Fukasaku, Battle Royale aroused both domestic and international controversy due to it's contents and theme, which was viewed by members of the Japanese parliament as 'crude and tasteless.'
A group of Japanese middle school students are taken out on a field trip, only to be gassed, fitted with electronic collars and sent to briefing room on a remote island. They soon discover that they have been selected to participate in the annual Battle Royale under the BR Act, which means that they have three days to kill each other until only one winner remains. The collars serve to kill uncooperative students or those that stumble into the 'danger' zones. With only a ration pack and a randomly chosen weapon, that can range from a firearm to a saucepan lid, the confused fifteen year old students begin their forced slaying of each other.
In spite of all of the controversy surrounding the film, it has been highly acclaimed by critics in the Western World, with comparisons being made to Lord of the Flies and A Clockwork Orange. Love it or hate it, Battle Royale is a provocative masterpiece of mayhem and is definitely worthy of at least one viewing in everyone's lifetime.
FINAL SAY: Life is a game. So fight for survival and see if you're worth it.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
TWO HANDS
Release Date: 1999
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 103 mins
This Australian crime film, written and directed by Gregor Jordan won the Australian Film Institute Award for Best Film in 1998, one year before it's actual release. It received excellent critic acclaim, and soon became known as the "Australian Goodfellas." Two Hands is a fast paced, slick Aussie tale full of corruption and thievery.
Street wise Jimmy (Heath Ledger) finds himself on the run due to a large and 'missing' debt that he owes to Pando (Bryan Brown). Pando is a well known, brutal and unforgiving local gangster. The missing loot is found by two street kids that set off on a shopping spree, and the wheels are set into motion for some very unpleasant encounters.
Ledger and Brown are as fabulous as they always are here, and with a delightfully young and fresh faced Rose Byrne rounding out the bill, it's a great watch all round.
FINAL SAY: Never leave large amounts of cash unattended!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1999
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 103 mins
This Australian crime film, written and directed by Gregor Jordan won the Australian Film Institute Award for Best Film in 1998, one year before it's actual release. It received excellent critic acclaim, and soon became known as the "Australian Goodfellas." Two Hands is a fast paced, slick Aussie tale full of corruption and thievery.
Street wise Jimmy (Heath Ledger) finds himself on the run due to a large and 'missing' debt that he owes to Pando (Bryan Brown). Pando is a well known, brutal and unforgiving local gangster. The missing loot is found by two street kids that set off on a shopping spree, and the wheels are set into motion for some very unpleasant encounters.
Ledger and Brown are as fabulous as they always are here, and with a delightfully young and fresh faced Rose Byrne rounding out the bill, it's a great watch all round.
FINAL SAY: Never leave large amounts of cash unattended!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE BOONDOCK SAINTS
Release Date: 1999
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 108 mins
Slammed by critics, this American crime film written and directed by Troy Duffy, went on to become a cult classic grossing almost $50 million in video sales. And despite it's tepid reviews, I really enjoyed the ridiculous goings on and insane mix of characters.
Irish Catholic fraternal twins Connor and Murphy MacManus experience a run in with the Russian Mafia. Inspired by their faith, they seek to cleanse their hometown of said gangsters with their own style of vigilante justice. However, an eccentric FBI agent is following their every move and plans to stop their killing spree and put an end to their folk hero status once and for all.
A very young Sean Patrick Flanery and Norman Reedus play the twin brothers, but it's Willem Dafoe's incredibly wacky portrayal of deranged FBI agent Paul Smecker that really gives this movie it's punch.
It's a holy hot mess from start to end, but it's a really fun ride.
FINAL SAY: For thine is the kingdom, and the power and the glory, now and forever. Amen.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1999
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 108 mins
Slammed by critics, this American crime film written and directed by Troy Duffy, went on to become a cult classic grossing almost $50 million in video sales. And despite it's tepid reviews, I really enjoyed the ridiculous goings on and insane mix of characters.
Irish Catholic fraternal twins Connor and Murphy MacManus experience a run in with the Russian Mafia. Inspired by their faith, they seek to cleanse their hometown of said gangsters with their own style of vigilante justice. However, an eccentric FBI agent is following their every move and plans to stop their killing spree and put an end to their folk hero status once and for all.
A very young Sean Patrick Flanery and Norman Reedus play the twin brothers, but it's Willem Dafoe's incredibly wacky portrayal of deranged FBI agent Paul Smecker that really gives this movie it's punch.
It's a holy hot mess from start to end, but it's a really fun ride.
FINAL SAY: For thine is the kingdom, and the power and the glory, now and forever. Amen.
3 Chilli Peppers
FIGHT CLUB
Release date: 1999
Rating: MA 15+
Running time: 140 minutes
This is a love it or hate it kind of a movie, most people have a reaction for either good or bad about this film which makes it a success in my mind. They say that art should disturb the calm and calm the disturbed so maybe this film acts a little like art. Be assured that this film will keep you watching and probably wondering what the hell is up with the main characters throughout its duration.
Without giving away too much, it's about soap and fighting, lots of fighting...but I can't talk about that.
Brad Pitt is amazing as the seedy Tyler Durden, Helena Bonham Carter is her usual dark and disturbed persona and Ed Norton rounds out the trilogy of talent nicely. Strong back up performances from Jared Leto and Meatloaf's man boobs.
FINAL SAY: Get recruited into fight club if you haven't already.
4 Chilli peppers
Release date: 1999
Rating: MA 15+
Running time: 140 minutes
This is a love it or hate it kind of a movie, most people have a reaction for either good or bad about this film which makes it a success in my mind. They say that art should disturb the calm and calm the disturbed so maybe this film acts a little like art. Be assured that this film will keep you watching and probably wondering what the hell is up with the main characters throughout its duration.
Without giving away too much, it's about soap and fighting, lots of fighting...but I can't talk about that.
Brad Pitt is amazing as the seedy Tyler Durden, Helena Bonham Carter is her usual dark and disturbed persona and Ed Norton rounds out the trilogy of talent nicely. Strong back up performances from Jared Leto and Meatloaf's man boobs.
FINAL SAY: Get recruited into fight club if you haven't already.
4 Chilli peppers
THE THIN RED LINE
Release Date: 1998
Rating: M
Running Time: 170 mins
Terrence Malick came out of a twenty year hiatus to direct this incredible war epic based on James Jone's 1962 autobiographical novel of the same name, which focuses on the conflict at Guadalcanal during the second World War. With a huge ensemble cast the movie almost doubled it's production expense at the box office, was nominated for seven academy awards and is ranked as Martin Scorsese's second favourite movie of all time. The Thin Red Line is now considered to be one of the greatest contemporary war films to have ever been made.
A group of soldiers is brought in to assist the marines with the battle of Guadalcanal, which will strongly influence the Japanese advance into the Pacific Theatre. The horrors of war bond the exhausted men as they fight to survive against the odds.
This is a poignant and engrossing war movie, that was unfortunately released at the same time as Saving Private Ryan which did far better at the box office, but in my opinion, seriously pales in comparison.
The cast are tremendous, with Jim Caviezel, Sean Penn and Nick Nolte leading a virtual who's who of actors through a touching and memorable movie. You really get a sense of the helplessness of the soldiers here, the message being sent about ordinary men being sent to fight for things that they don't even fully comprehend is driven home, and the overall effect is haunting and thought provoking.
FINAL SAY: War don't ennoble men. It turns them into dogs...poisons the soul.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1998
Rating: M
Running Time: 170 mins
Terrence Malick came out of a twenty year hiatus to direct this incredible war epic based on James Jone's 1962 autobiographical novel of the same name, which focuses on the conflict at Guadalcanal during the second World War. With a huge ensemble cast the movie almost doubled it's production expense at the box office, was nominated for seven academy awards and is ranked as Martin Scorsese's second favourite movie of all time. The Thin Red Line is now considered to be one of the greatest contemporary war films to have ever been made.
A group of soldiers is brought in to assist the marines with the battle of Guadalcanal, which will strongly influence the Japanese advance into the Pacific Theatre. The horrors of war bond the exhausted men as they fight to survive against the odds.
This is a poignant and engrossing war movie, that was unfortunately released at the same time as Saving Private Ryan which did far better at the box office, but in my opinion, seriously pales in comparison.
The cast are tremendous, with Jim Caviezel, Sean Penn and Nick Nolte leading a virtual who's who of actors through a touching and memorable movie. You really get a sense of the helplessness of the soldiers here, the message being sent about ordinary men being sent to fight for things that they don't even fully comprehend is driven home, and the overall effect is haunting and thought provoking.
FINAL SAY: War don't ennoble men. It turns them into dogs...poisons the soul.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
VERY BAD THINGS
Release Date: 1998
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 100 mins
The very aptly named movie Very Bad Things, is truly very bad indeed. This movie was pretty much universally hated for it's unnecessarily vicious and at times sexist, racist and vulgar attempts at humour, and I am loathe to admit that I thought that it was enjoyable in a savage kind of a way. All of the characters are complete assholes, there is no-one to like, and I think that is the whole point of the film, you won't support any of the cruel behaviours being portrayed here, but you will have a reaction one way or another to this incredibly scathing satire.
A group of morally challenged men go to Vegas for a bachelor party, and things get way out of hand when a prostitute is killed. The men go from poor choices to rotten ones in rapid succession, as they try to cover up the events of that fateful night.
The cast is strong, with Jon Favreau, Christian Slater, Jeremy Piven and Cameron Diaz all showing us just how low people will go to get what they want and to cover their own tracks. The only positive in the film, is that all of the nasty assholes certainly get a good measure of their own come-uppences, but not before a lot of blood gets spilled along the way.
FINAL SAY: Cruel and nasty behaviours.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1998
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 100 mins
The very aptly named movie Very Bad Things, is truly very bad indeed. This movie was pretty much universally hated for it's unnecessarily vicious and at times sexist, racist and vulgar attempts at humour, and I am loathe to admit that I thought that it was enjoyable in a savage kind of a way. All of the characters are complete assholes, there is no-one to like, and I think that is the whole point of the film, you won't support any of the cruel behaviours being portrayed here, but you will have a reaction one way or another to this incredibly scathing satire.
A group of morally challenged men go to Vegas for a bachelor party, and things get way out of hand when a prostitute is killed. The men go from poor choices to rotten ones in rapid succession, as they try to cover up the events of that fateful night.
The cast is strong, with Jon Favreau, Christian Slater, Jeremy Piven and Cameron Diaz all showing us just how low people will go to get what they want and to cover their own tracks. The only positive in the film, is that all of the nasty assholes certainly get a good measure of their own come-uppences, but not before a lot of blood gets spilled along the way.
FINAL SAY: Cruel and nasty behaviours.
3 Chilli Peppers
LOCK, STOCK AND TWO SMOKING BARRELS
Release Date: 1998
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 107 mins
Guy Ritchie's first full-length movie feature, which he penned and directed, introducing us to the underworld of British crime and kicking off the careers of Jason Statham and former Welsh football player Vinnie Jones. Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels received favourable reviews, quickly gaining a cult following and receiving a nomination for a British Film Award, and it is easy to see why, this is a hilarious and thoroughly enjoyable movie, that should be on everyone's must see list.
When a group of small time British crooks send their card shark mate Eddie into a notorious card game against the crime lord Hatchet Harry, there's no way that they can lose. But, of course, they do, and find themselves in way over their heads, and trying to come up with the $800,000 that they need to get out of it all, is not an easy task.
All of the violence of a Tarantino film, peppered with sharp wit and Cockney cheek, this film is a winner. Guy Ritchie has made this work in what feels like a slap dash manner, which gives the whole seedy nightmare a real edge and a very cool vibe. Expect to have a lot of fun with this film, it's not demanding to be taken seriously, this is one to just sit back and enjoy.
FINAL SAY: Bad breath, colourful language, feather duster....what do you think they're gonna be armed with?
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1998
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 107 mins
Guy Ritchie's first full-length movie feature, which he penned and directed, introducing us to the underworld of British crime and kicking off the careers of Jason Statham and former Welsh football player Vinnie Jones. Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels received favourable reviews, quickly gaining a cult following and receiving a nomination for a British Film Award, and it is easy to see why, this is a hilarious and thoroughly enjoyable movie, that should be on everyone's must see list.
When a group of small time British crooks send their card shark mate Eddie into a notorious card game against the crime lord Hatchet Harry, there's no way that they can lose. But, of course, they do, and find themselves in way over their heads, and trying to come up with the $800,000 that they need to get out of it all, is not an easy task.
All of the violence of a Tarantino film, peppered with sharp wit and Cockney cheek, this film is a winner. Guy Ritchie has made this work in what feels like a slap dash manner, which gives the whole seedy nightmare a real edge and a very cool vibe. Expect to have a lot of fun with this film, it's not demanding to be taken seriously, this is one to just sit back and enjoy.
FINAL SAY: Bad breath, colourful language, feather duster....what do you think they're gonna be armed with?
4.5 Chilli Peppers
SAVING PRIVATE RYAN
Release Date: 1998
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 170 mins
The least sentimental Steven Spielberg movie of all time, and one of the most graphic and violent depictions of World War II. This epic war drama, written by Robert Rodat has one of the most intense opening 27 minutes of any war movie, which includes a graphic depiction of the Omaha Beach assault during the Normandy Landings of 1944. Saving Private Ryan gained a lot of critical acclaim, dominated at the box office and won five of the 11 Academy Awards that it was nominated for, proving that movie goers were in no way tiring of epic war movies.
Three days after D-Day, a team of United States Army Rangers are sent on a dangerous mission into enemy territory in search of a paratrooper named James Francis Ryan. He is the last-surviving brother of four servicemen, and the government wants him delivered home safely.
Saving Private Ryan has been credited for its realistic portrayal of World War II combat, and there is no denying that the battle scenes depicted in this film are completely unflinching and for that reason deeply affecting. The film's use of desaturated colouring, hand-held cameras, tight angles and nail bitingly intense scenes have influenced many subsequent war movies and games.
Tom Hanks is at his absolute best as Captain John H. Miller- the dedicated leader who is operating well outside of his comfort zone, and he is well supported by a massive and talented ensemble cast that includes Tom Sizemore, Matt Damon, Edward Burns, Barry Pepper, Vin Diesel, Giovanni Ribisi, Bryan Cranston and Paul Giamatti. If war movies are your thing, then this is definitely a must see, and even though the storyline is thin, the acting and character development more than make up for that.
FINAL SAY: Tell me I'm a good man.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1998
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 170 mins
The least sentimental Steven Spielberg movie of all time, and one of the most graphic and violent depictions of World War II. This epic war drama, written by Robert Rodat has one of the most intense opening 27 minutes of any war movie, which includes a graphic depiction of the Omaha Beach assault during the Normandy Landings of 1944. Saving Private Ryan gained a lot of critical acclaim, dominated at the box office and won five of the 11 Academy Awards that it was nominated for, proving that movie goers were in no way tiring of epic war movies.
Three days after D-Day, a team of United States Army Rangers are sent on a dangerous mission into enemy territory in search of a paratrooper named James Francis Ryan. He is the last-surviving brother of four servicemen, and the government wants him delivered home safely.
Saving Private Ryan has been credited for its realistic portrayal of World War II combat, and there is no denying that the battle scenes depicted in this film are completely unflinching and for that reason deeply affecting. The film's use of desaturated colouring, hand-held cameras, tight angles and nail bitingly intense scenes have influenced many subsequent war movies and games.
Tom Hanks is at his absolute best as Captain John H. Miller- the dedicated leader who is operating well outside of his comfort zone, and he is well supported by a massive and talented ensemble cast that includes Tom Sizemore, Matt Damon, Edward Burns, Barry Pepper, Vin Diesel, Giovanni Ribisi, Bryan Cranston and Paul Giamatti. If war movies are your thing, then this is definitely a must see, and even though the storyline is thin, the acting and character development more than make up for that.
FINAL SAY: Tell me I'm a good man.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL
Release Date: 1997
Rating: M
Running Time: 116 mins
A period tragicomic drama directed by and starring Roberto Benigni, who shot to fame after he won the Academy Award for Best Actor, Best Original Dramatic Score and Best Foreign Language Film at the 71st Academy Awards.
Set in the 1930's, Life is Beautiful tells the story of a playful Jewish Italian book shop owner named Guido that has his life turned upside down when he and his son become victims of the Holocaust. With his own blend of humour and imagination, Guido attempts to protect his son from the real horrors of the Nazi Concentration Camp.
Part of the idea for the movie came from Benigni's own family history, as his own father survived a three year term at Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, so this was a very personal body of work. Benigni himself is just fabulous as Guido, bringing charisma and ingenuity to his character that translates beautifully. I adored this film, it made it me laugh and it also made me cry. I didn't think that it was an insensitive holocaust movie, as some people believed it to be, but rather a hopeful and endearing piece that speaks volumes about endurance and creativity.
FINAL SAY: Buon Giorno, Principessa!
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1997
Rating: M
Running Time: 116 mins
A period tragicomic drama directed by and starring Roberto Benigni, who shot to fame after he won the Academy Award for Best Actor, Best Original Dramatic Score and Best Foreign Language Film at the 71st Academy Awards.
Set in the 1930's, Life is Beautiful tells the story of a playful Jewish Italian book shop owner named Guido that has his life turned upside down when he and his son become victims of the Holocaust. With his own blend of humour and imagination, Guido attempts to protect his son from the real horrors of the Nazi Concentration Camp.
Part of the idea for the movie came from Benigni's own family history, as his own father survived a three year term at Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, so this was a very personal body of work. Benigni himself is just fabulous as Guido, bringing charisma and ingenuity to his character that translates beautifully. I adored this film, it made it me laugh and it also made me cry. I didn't think that it was an insensitive holocaust movie, as some people believed it to be, but rather a hopeful and endearing piece that speaks volumes about endurance and creativity.
FINAL SAY: Buon Giorno, Principessa!
4 Chilli Peppers
A TIME TO KILL
Release Date: 1996
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 149 mins
An absorbing courtroom crime-drama based on John Grisham's 1989 novel of the same name. A Time to Kill tells a grisly story that is haunting, heart-breaking and fraught with deep racial tensions. The film was steeped in much controversy due its violent behaviours, heavy handed justice and vigilante undertones; however I think that it was one of the better and more engrossing Grisham novel screen adaptations.
Set in a small Southern town, a 10 year old African American girl is brutally raped and left for dead by two local white men. Fearing that the two perpetrators will walk free, the girl's father exacts his own revenge which in turn sparks massive racial unrest and he soon finds himself fighting for his life as he faces a potential death sentence.
This is some of the strongest and most powerful work that I have seen from Samuel L. Jackson. He plays the girls father Carl Lee Hailey with such a convincing energy that it is palpable. He is also well supported by a treasure trove of excellent actors that includes Mathew McConaughey, Sandra Bullock, Kevin Spacey, Ashely Judd, Donald Sutherland and Kiefer Sutherland who are not only all perfectly cast here but really elevate the story with their convincing performances.
FINAL SAY: When you look at me, you don't see a man, you see a black man.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1996
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 149 mins
An absorbing courtroom crime-drama based on John Grisham's 1989 novel of the same name. A Time to Kill tells a grisly story that is haunting, heart-breaking and fraught with deep racial tensions. The film was steeped in much controversy due its violent behaviours, heavy handed justice and vigilante undertones; however I think that it was one of the better and more engrossing Grisham novel screen adaptations.
Set in a small Southern town, a 10 year old African American girl is brutally raped and left for dead by two local white men. Fearing that the two perpetrators will walk free, the girl's father exacts his own revenge which in turn sparks massive racial unrest and he soon finds himself fighting for his life as he faces a potential death sentence.
This is some of the strongest and most powerful work that I have seen from Samuel L. Jackson. He plays the girls father Carl Lee Hailey with such a convincing energy that it is palpable. He is also well supported by a treasure trove of excellent actors that includes Mathew McConaughey, Sandra Bullock, Kevin Spacey, Ashely Judd, Donald Sutherland and Kiefer Sutherland who are not only all perfectly cast here but really elevate the story with their convincing performances.
FINAL SAY: When you look at me, you don't see a man, you see a black man.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
FARGO
Release Date: 1996
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 98 mins
Written, produced, edited and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, Fargo premiered at the 1996 Cannes Film Festival and went on to become a massive critical and commercial success. This was the movie that really made the Coen brothers a household name. Frances McDormand snatched the Best Actress Award for her portrayal of a Minnesotan Police Chief and the Coen's won a Best Writing Academy Award for Original Screenplay.
Based on actual events, the story centres on the investigation of a roadside homicide. This incident leads investigating officer Marge Gunderson (McDormand) to uncover that behind it all is a struggling car salesman who'd hired two thugs to kidnap his wife, so that he could extort his wealthy father-in-law.
Things just go from bad to worse as the story progresses, stretching our ability to believe that any of the haphazard activities depicted could have actually taken place in the real world at any time. A marvelously strong cast including Steve Buscemi, William H. Macy and Peter Stormare really bring this story together perfectly, making it an entertaining, offbeat and often grisly crime drama that is a definite must see.
FINAL SAY: Oh he was a little guy, kinda funny lookin'.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1996
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 98 mins
Written, produced, edited and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, Fargo premiered at the 1996 Cannes Film Festival and went on to become a massive critical and commercial success. This was the movie that really made the Coen brothers a household name. Frances McDormand snatched the Best Actress Award for her portrayal of a Minnesotan Police Chief and the Coen's won a Best Writing Academy Award for Original Screenplay.
Based on actual events, the story centres on the investigation of a roadside homicide. This incident leads investigating officer Marge Gunderson (McDormand) to uncover that behind it all is a struggling car salesman who'd hired two thugs to kidnap his wife, so that he could extort his wealthy father-in-law.
Things just go from bad to worse as the story progresses, stretching our ability to believe that any of the haphazard activities depicted could have actually taken place in the real world at any time. A marvelously strong cast including Steve Buscemi, William H. Macy and Peter Stormare really bring this story together perfectly, making it an entertaining, offbeat and often grisly crime drama that is a definite must see.
FINAL SAY: Oh he was a little guy, kinda funny lookin'.
4 Chilli Peppers
CASINO
Release Date: 1995
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 178 mins
If you haven't already seen this movie, you need to remedy that as soon as you can. Martin Scorsese's Casino is a piece of cinematic brilliance that I believe was his most ambitious, and easily his most underrated, body of work to date.
Spanning three decades, Casino chronicles the true story of a faction of the mob that ran the Las Vegas casinos.
We get to see all of the greed, scandal and dirty tactics that went on behind the scenes at the casinos, but we also bear witness to all of the revolting dramatics that occurred in their obviously strained private lives.
This is a complex movie showcasing the absolute best of Robert De Niro as smooth talking Sam "Ace" Rothstein. This was a role De Niro was born to play, and he does it perfectly. Sharon Stone deserved the Oscar for her flawless portrayal of Ginger, and Joe Pesci is terrifyingly psychotic as Nicky Santoro.
FINAL SAY: Take the gamble.
5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1995
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 178 mins
If you haven't already seen this movie, you need to remedy that as soon as you can. Martin Scorsese's Casino is a piece of cinematic brilliance that I believe was his most ambitious, and easily his most underrated, body of work to date.
Spanning three decades, Casino chronicles the true story of a faction of the mob that ran the Las Vegas casinos.
We get to see all of the greed, scandal and dirty tactics that went on behind the scenes at the casinos, but we also bear witness to all of the revolting dramatics that occurred in their obviously strained private lives.
This is a complex movie showcasing the absolute best of Robert De Niro as smooth talking Sam "Ace" Rothstein. This was a role De Niro was born to play, and he does it perfectly. Sharon Stone deserved the Oscar for her flawless portrayal of Ginger, and Joe Pesci is terrifyingly psychotic as Nicky Santoro.
FINAL SAY: Take the gamble.
5 Chilli Peppers
BRAVEHEART
Release Date: 1995
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 178 mins
An epic historical and medieval war drama directed by Mel Gibson and based on Blind Harry's 15th century poem The Actes and Diedis of the Illustre and Vallyeant Campioun Schir William Wallace. Braveheart was nominated for a whopping ten Oscars at the 68th Academy Awards and won five of them, including Best Picture and Best Director.
Braveheart tells the legendary tale of William Wallace, a Scottish warrior who rallied against the English Monarch during the thirteenth century, and became a renown hero.
This movie did wonders for Scottish tourism, and had fans all around the world suddenly showing an interest in medieval history and swordsmanship. Mel Gibson is just tremendous as William Wallace, adding passion and strength to the legend of Wallace's name and proving that he is a serious talent by both acting in and directing the movie. It's such a shame that he went so wrong down the track when he had such favourable beginnings.
The landscapes in Braveheart are simply stunning, the battle scenes are grimy and brutal and the sentiments and bagpipes are on high alert. Overall, this is an awesome action movie and a sweeping saga all rolled into one, and I cannot deny that I thoroughly enjoyed it.
FINAL SAY: Tell our enemies that they may take our lives, but they'll never take our FREEDOM!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1995
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 178 mins
An epic historical and medieval war drama directed by Mel Gibson and based on Blind Harry's 15th century poem The Actes and Diedis of the Illustre and Vallyeant Campioun Schir William Wallace. Braveheart was nominated for a whopping ten Oscars at the 68th Academy Awards and won five of them, including Best Picture and Best Director.
Braveheart tells the legendary tale of William Wallace, a Scottish warrior who rallied against the English Monarch during the thirteenth century, and became a renown hero.
This movie did wonders for Scottish tourism, and had fans all around the world suddenly showing an interest in medieval history and swordsmanship. Mel Gibson is just tremendous as William Wallace, adding passion and strength to the legend of Wallace's name and proving that he is a serious talent by both acting in and directing the movie. It's such a shame that he went so wrong down the track when he had such favourable beginnings.
The landscapes in Braveheart are simply stunning, the battle scenes are grimy and brutal and the sentiments and bagpipes are on high alert. Overall, this is an awesome action movie and a sweeping saga all rolled into one, and I cannot deny that I thoroughly enjoyed it.
FINAL SAY: Tell our enemies that they may take our lives, but they'll never take our FREEDOM!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE USUAL SUSPECTS
Release Date: 1995
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 106 mins
Arguably Bryan Singer's best directing and Christopher McQuarrie's best piece of writing; this crime-thriller will have you on the edge of your seat from start to end.
Roger 'Verbal' Kint, one of the only survivors of a massacre that occurred on board a ship, recounts under interrogation the events that began when five criminals met up in a seemingly random police lineup. However, all roads appear to lead the enigmatic and highly evasive criminal-mastermind Keyser Soze, but no-one knows who Keyser is or if he really even exists.
This is high quality viewing, interesting and entertaining. The 'line up' is tremendously strong, including Gabriel Byrne, Kevin Spacey, Benicio del Toro, Stephen Baldwin, Pete Postlewaite, Kevin Pollack and Chazz Palminteri; and the way that they bounce off each other onscreen is a delight!
Clever and intriguing, a definite must see.
FINAL SAY: Who is Keyser Soze?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1995
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 106 mins
Arguably Bryan Singer's best directing and Christopher McQuarrie's best piece of writing; this crime-thriller will have you on the edge of your seat from start to end.
Roger 'Verbal' Kint, one of the only survivors of a massacre that occurred on board a ship, recounts under interrogation the events that began when five criminals met up in a seemingly random police lineup. However, all roads appear to lead the enigmatic and highly evasive criminal-mastermind Keyser Soze, but no-one knows who Keyser is or if he really even exists.
This is high quality viewing, interesting and entertaining. The 'line up' is tremendously strong, including Gabriel Byrne, Kevin Spacey, Benicio del Toro, Stephen Baldwin, Pete Postlewaite, Kevin Pollack and Chazz Palminteri; and the way that they bounce off each other onscreen is a delight!
Clever and intriguing, a definite must see.
FINAL SAY: Who is Keyser Soze?
4 Chilli Peppers
PULP FICTION
Release Date: 1994
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 154 mins
This black-comedy/action film directed by Quentin Tarantino won major acclaim at the box office and became an instant cult classic. It was nominated for a Best Picture Oscar and won the 1994 Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, it resurrected John Travolta's career and galvanized Tarantino's abilities as a talented director.
This stylized "neo-noir" film connects four intersecting storylines involving a Los Angeles mobster, some small-time crooks, two psychopathic hit men, an aging boxer, a drug snorting gangsters wife, a gimp and a very mysterious briefcase. Yep, it really has got it all, and a stellar ensemble cast to bring it all together including Samuel Jackson, Bruce Willis, Uma Thurman, Tim Roth and Harvey Keitel to name but a few.
This type of gore driven, uber-violent action may not be for everyone, but I just loved this movie from start to end. It's a fun watch with a kick-arse soundtrack and loads going on to keep you entertained.
FINAL SAY: Just because you are a character doesn't mean you have character.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1994
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 154 mins
This black-comedy/action film directed by Quentin Tarantino won major acclaim at the box office and became an instant cult classic. It was nominated for a Best Picture Oscar and won the 1994 Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, it resurrected John Travolta's career and galvanized Tarantino's abilities as a talented director.
This stylized "neo-noir" film connects four intersecting storylines involving a Los Angeles mobster, some small-time crooks, two psychopathic hit men, an aging boxer, a drug snorting gangsters wife, a gimp and a very mysterious briefcase. Yep, it really has got it all, and a stellar ensemble cast to bring it all together including Samuel Jackson, Bruce Willis, Uma Thurman, Tim Roth and Harvey Keitel to name but a few.
This type of gore driven, uber-violent action may not be for everyone, but I just loved this movie from start to end. It's a fun watch with a kick-arse soundtrack and loads going on to keep you entertained.
FINAL SAY: Just because you are a character doesn't mean you have character.
4 Chilli Peppers
LEON: THE PROFESSIONAL
Release Date: 1994
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 110 mins
Written and directed by Luc Besson, this French crime-action thriller has gone on to receive a cult following, quite possibly because of Jean Reno's calm and ultra cool portrayal of a hitman with a sensitive side.
A very young Natalie Portman plays 12 year old Mathilda, a girl that has been exposed to a corrupt and sordid life because of her abusive drug dealing father. When her family are killed in a raid by corrupt DEA agents, Mathilda takes refuge in a nearby apartment that is owned by a quiet and secretive gentleman named Leon. Leon, who reluctantly takes the girl under his wing, turns out to be a professional hitman, and he allows Mathilda to become his protegee in exchange for housekeeping.
This was Portman's breakout role, and she is absolutely amazing as Mathilda. Gary Oldman is also strong here, playing his role of the psychotic agent Stansfield with a disturbing conviction. But it is Jean Reno that steals all the limelight as Leon, the hitman that oozes calculated and yet solemn self control.
This is a violent and intense movie that had a lasting impression on me, it is delivered with a high level of energy and intensity that makes it easy to see why it went onto become a cult classic.
FINAL SAY: Revenge is not a good thing, it's better to forget.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1994
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 110 mins
Written and directed by Luc Besson, this French crime-action thriller has gone on to receive a cult following, quite possibly because of Jean Reno's calm and ultra cool portrayal of a hitman with a sensitive side.
A very young Natalie Portman plays 12 year old Mathilda, a girl that has been exposed to a corrupt and sordid life because of her abusive drug dealing father. When her family are killed in a raid by corrupt DEA agents, Mathilda takes refuge in a nearby apartment that is owned by a quiet and secretive gentleman named Leon. Leon, who reluctantly takes the girl under his wing, turns out to be a professional hitman, and he allows Mathilda to become his protegee in exchange for housekeeping.
This was Portman's breakout role, and she is absolutely amazing as Mathilda. Gary Oldman is also strong here, playing his role of the psychotic agent Stansfield with a disturbing conviction. But it is Jean Reno that steals all the limelight as Leon, the hitman that oozes calculated and yet solemn self control.
This is a violent and intense movie that had a lasting impression on me, it is delivered with a high level of energy and intensity that makes it easy to see why it went onto become a cult classic.
FINAL SAY: Revenge is not a good thing, it's better to forget.
4 Chilli Peppers
TRUE ROMANCE
Release Date: 1993
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
A dark romance, action-crime movie directed by Tony Scott and written by Quentin Tarantino. Things just go from bad to worse in this rather unlikely tale about a call girl and an Elvis fanatic. There is a lot going on here, so the pace is fast and like all Tarantino scripts, the violence is in overdrive.
When Clarence (Christian Slater) marries Alabama (Patricia Arquette), he gets more than he bargained for. In an attempt to free her from her extremely unpleasant pimp Drexel (Gary Oldman), Clarence ends up killing him and accidentally stealing a bag full of drugs. He and Alabama attempt to sell the drugs, but the drugs were never Drexel's in the first place, and the real owners are now on the hunt for the two newlyweds and their missing drugs.
Who isn't in this film? It's a literal who's who of Hollywood big name actors, all delivering a sharp and edgy story line that is as amusing as it is disturbing. It's True Romance alright, no-one in their right minds would go for it otherwise.
FINAL SAY: It's better to have a gun and not need it, than to need a gun and not have it.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1993
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
A dark romance, action-crime movie directed by Tony Scott and written by Quentin Tarantino. Things just go from bad to worse in this rather unlikely tale about a call girl and an Elvis fanatic. There is a lot going on here, so the pace is fast and like all Tarantino scripts, the violence is in overdrive.
When Clarence (Christian Slater) marries Alabama (Patricia Arquette), he gets more than he bargained for. In an attempt to free her from her extremely unpleasant pimp Drexel (Gary Oldman), Clarence ends up killing him and accidentally stealing a bag full of drugs. He and Alabama attempt to sell the drugs, but the drugs were never Drexel's in the first place, and the real owners are now on the hunt for the two newlyweds and their missing drugs.
Who isn't in this film? It's a literal who's who of Hollywood big name actors, all delivering a sharp and edgy story line that is as amusing as it is disturbing. It's True Romance alright, no-one in their right minds would go for it otherwise.
FINAL SAY: It's better to have a gun and not need it, than to need a gun and not have it.
3 Chilli Peppers
KILLING ZOE
Release Date: 1993
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 93 mins
This French-American crime film was written and directed by Roger Avary, and co-produced by Quentin Tarantino. This was Avary's debut to feature filmmaking, and he won the Best Film and Critics Award at the 1994 Mystfest awards for his efforts.
The story revolves around an accomplished safe cracker named Zed (Eric Stoltz) that arrives in Paris to perform a bank heist. Upon his arrival he hooks up with a beautiful French girl named Zoe (Julie Delpy) and after a night of passion the two part ways, however unbeknownst to Zed, Zoe is actually a teller at the bank that they about to rob.
This was a pretty under-appreciated movie when it came out, and a lot of people still haven't seen it, which I think is a shame because it is actually extremely intense. If you are a fan of blood drenched, slick and smartly stylized movies, then odds are that you will love it, it's not just another heist movie, it's a true Generation X cult classic and deserves to be seen.
FINAL SAY: I'll show you a real Paris.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1993
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 93 mins
This French-American crime film was written and directed by Roger Avary, and co-produced by Quentin Tarantino. This was Avary's debut to feature filmmaking, and he won the Best Film and Critics Award at the 1994 Mystfest awards for his efforts.
The story revolves around an accomplished safe cracker named Zed (Eric Stoltz) that arrives in Paris to perform a bank heist. Upon his arrival he hooks up with a beautiful French girl named Zoe (Julie Delpy) and after a night of passion the two part ways, however unbeknownst to Zed, Zoe is actually a teller at the bank that they about to rob.
This was a pretty under-appreciated movie when it came out, and a lot of people still haven't seen it, which I think is a shame because it is actually extremely intense. If you are a fan of blood drenched, slick and smartly stylized movies, then odds are that you will love it, it's not just another heist movie, it's a true Generation X cult classic and deserves to be seen.
FINAL SAY: I'll show you a real Paris.
3 Chilli Peppers
SCHINDLER'S LIST
Release Date: 1993
Rating: M
Running Time: 195 mins
I recall that this movie had a really profound effect on me when it was released, I was 19 at the time, and I think that it was probably my first encounter with a feature length Holocaust movie, and it is certainly one that I won't forget in a hurry. Scripted by Steven Zaillian and directed by Steven Spielberg, the story is based on the novel Schindler's Ark by Australian novelist Thomas Keneally and outlines the life of Oskar Schindler, a real life German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand, mostly Polish-Jewish refugees during WWII, by employing them to work in his factories.
Filmed in stark black and white, and approached by Spielberg like a documentary, this timeless movie went on to win a whopping seven Academy Awards and earn over $320 million in cinemas worldwide. It is often listed among the greatest films ever made, and when it comes to the cultural and historical significance of this movie, you are going to be hard strapped to find better.
This is a beautifully acted, sensitively delivered and visually brilliant piece of cinema, according to the actual survivors of the Holocaust, the accuracy of the movie is astounding. With it's incredibly harrowing story and it's thoughtfully placed symbolism, Schindler's List is an unforgettable epic of our time.
FINAL SAY: Power is when we have every justification to kill, and we don't.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1993
Rating: M
Running Time: 195 mins
I recall that this movie had a really profound effect on me when it was released, I was 19 at the time, and I think that it was probably my first encounter with a feature length Holocaust movie, and it is certainly one that I won't forget in a hurry. Scripted by Steven Zaillian and directed by Steven Spielberg, the story is based on the novel Schindler's Ark by Australian novelist Thomas Keneally and outlines the life of Oskar Schindler, a real life German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand, mostly Polish-Jewish refugees during WWII, by employing them to work in his factories.
Filmed in stark black and white, and approached by Spielberg like a documentary, this timeless movie went on to win a whopping seven Academy Awards and earn over $320 million in cinemas worldwide. It is often listed among the greatest films ever made, and when it comes to the cultural and historical significance of this movie, you are going to be hard strapped to find better.
This is a beautifully acted, sensitively delivered and visually brilliant piece of cinema, according to the actual survivors of the Holocaust, the accuracy of the movie is astounding. With it's incredibly harrowing story and it's thoughtfully placed symbolism, Schindler's List is an unforgettable epic of our time.
FINAL SAY: Power is when we have every justification to kill, and we don't.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
RESERVOIR DOGS
Release Date: 1992
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 99 mins
Quentin Tarantino's first feature length movie and the beginning of his long relationship with gore based action movies. Reservoir Dogs first premiered at The Sundance Film Festival in 1992 and fastly became the festivals most talked about movie, it was subsequently picked up for distribution by Miramax Films. It has since gone on to be recognised as one of the most successful independent films of all time.
A group of thieves assemble to perform a well orchestrated diamond heist. However, things go sour during the heist when it becomes apparent that one of the group is an informant. The men rapidly begin to turn on each other in an attempt to weed out the snitch.
A stellar all star cast and a kick arse soundtrack really add meat to the bones of this film, and although it is a violently unnerving movie that many people have walked out of due to its graphic content, it does exactly what Tarantino set out for it do, which is to have an affect on its audience.
FINAL SAY: For all I know, you're the rat!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1992
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 99 mins
Quentin Tarantino's first feature length movie and the beginning of his long relationship with gore based action movies. Reservoir Dogs first premiered at The Sundance Film Festival in 1992 and fastly became the festivals most talked about movie, it was subsequently picked up for distribution by Miramax Films. It has since gone on to be recognised as one of the most successful independent films of all time.
A group of thieves assemble to perform a well orchestrated diamond heist. However, things go sour during the heist when it becomes apparent that one of the group is an informant. The men rapidly begin to turn on each other in an attempt to weed out the snitch.
A stellar all star cast and a kick arse soundtrack really add meat to the bones of this film, and although it is a violently unnerving movie that many people have walked out of due to its graphic content, it does exactly what Tarantino set out for it do, which is to have an affect on its audience.
FINAL SAY: For all I know, you're the rat!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
UNFORGIVEN
Release Date: 1992
Rating: M
Running Time: 131 mins
An American western, directed and produced by Clint Eastwood, who also starred in the lead role. Unforgiven swept the Oscars in 1992, taking out the Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor and Best Film Editing Awards and began what would be a string of highly successful films for Clint Eastwood.
Set in Big Whiskey, Wyoming in 1880, we witness two reckless cowboys, Quick Mike and Davey Boy, disfiguring a prostitute for laughing at them. After being let off with nothing more than a slap on the wrists, the prostitutes rise up against the law and offer a thousand dollar reward to anyone that is willing to kill the two cowboys for their crime. Two groups of gunfighters, one led by an aging former bandit called William Munny (Clint Eastwood) rise to the challenge, and find themselves at odds with each other and the law in their pursuit of the reward.
This is a violent depiction of the Old West, with great attention being given to the importance of reputation and heroism when it came to being a successful gunslinger, back in the day. Clint Eastwood is fabulous in what he himself called his final western, and boy he sure goes out in style here. This is one of the best westerns to have graced the big screen in many a year, and shouldn't be missed.
FINAL SAY: It's a hell of a thing, killin' a man.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1992
Rating: M
Running Time: 131 mins
An American western, directed and produced by Clint Eastwood, who also starred in the lead role. Unforgiven swept the Oscars in 1992, taking out the Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor and Best Film Editing Awards and began what would be a string of highly successful films for Clint Eastwood.
Set in Big Whiskey, Wyoming in 1880, we witness two reckless cowboys, Quick Mike and Davey Boy, disfiguring a prostitute for laughing at them. After being let off with nothing more than a slap on the wrists, the prostitutes rise up against the law and offer a thousand dollar reward to anyone that is willing to kill the two cowboys for their crime. Two groups of gunfighters, one led by an aging former bandit called William Munny (Clint Eastwood) rise to the challenge, and find themselves at odds with each other and the law in their pursuit of the reward.
This is a violent depiction of the Old West, with great attention being given to the importance of reputation and heroism when it came to being a successful gunslinger, back in the day. Clint Eastwood is fabulous in what he himself called his final western, and boy he sure goes out in style here. This is one of the best westerns to have graced the big screen in many a year, and shouldn't be missed.
FINAL SAY: It's a hell of a thing, killin' a man.
4 Chilli Peppers
BOYZ N THE HOOD
Release Date: 1991
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 127 mins
A ghetto/ coming-of-age crime drama, written and directed by John Singleton, who became the first African-American to be nominated for the Best Director Award at the 64th Academy Awards. After also being nominated for Best Original Screenplay, the movie swiftly gained attention and was praised for it's powerful character portrayals and moving story line. In 2002, The United States Library of Congress deemed Boyz n the Hood "culturally significant" and selected it for preservation in the National Film Registry.
Tre (Cuba Gooding Jr.) tries to make the best of things when he is sent to live with his tough but well meaning father (Laurence Fishburne) in South Central Los Angeles. However, in spite of his good values and devout girlfriend, Tre finds himself dragged into the corrupt lifestyle of his area because of his friends Doughboy (Ice Cube) and Ricky (Morris Chestnut).
Well acted and brimming with the problems faced by black communities, this film does come on heavy handed. The message being sent here is delivered very loudly, but in spite of its excesses, there is a powerful and stirring story here that most certainly deserves to be heard.
FINAL SAY: Can't afford to be afraid of our own people anymore, man.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1991
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 127 mins
A ghetto/ coming-of-age crime drama, written and directed by John Singleton, who became the first African-American to be nominated for the Best Director Award at the 64th Academy Awards. After also being nominated for Best Original Screenplay, the movie swiftly gained attention and was praised for it's powerful character portrayals and moving story line. In 2002, The United States Library of Congress deemed Boyz n the Hood "culturally significant" and selected it for preservation in the National Film Registry.
Tre (Cuba Gooding Jr.) tries to make the best of things when he is sent to live with his tough but well meaning father (Laurence Fishburne) in South Central Los Angeles. However, in spite of his good values and devout girlfriend, Tre finds himself dragged into the corrupt lifestyle of his area because of his friends Doughboy (Ice Cube) and Ricky (Morris Chestnut).
Well acted and brimming with the problems faced by black communities, this film does come on heavy handed. The message being sent here is delivered very loudly, but in spite of its excesses, there is a powerful and stirring story here that most certainly deserves to be heard.
FINAL SAY: Can't afford to be afraid of our own people anymore, man.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
GOODFELLAS
Release Date: 1990
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 146 mins
An American biographical crime movie, adapted from the 1986 non-fiction book Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi. Directed by Martin Scorsese and featuring a knock out cast that includes Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci and Ray Liotta, this movie was bound for glory from the get go. After almost doubling it's budget at the box office and receiving six Oscar nominations, it is no surprise to know that Goodfellas is now regarded as one of the best films of all time. It has been deemed "culturally, historically and aesthetically significant" and was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Untied States Library of Congress.
Henry Hill, a half Irish- half Italian New York gangster, works his way up through the mob hierarchy with his two friends over a thirty year span.
This movie is arguably the high point in Martin Scorsese's career, and even if you don't enjoy gangster movies, it is difficult to not get completely dragged into this saga. The performances are flawless, the story is interesting - made even more intriguing by the fact that it is based on real events, and when it comes to mafia movies, this was the first film to rise anywhere close to Coppola's greatness in a very long time. It's unmissable stuff.
FINAL SAY: Not very good fellas at all.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1990
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 146 mins
An American biographical crime movie, adapted from the 1986 non-fiction book Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi. Directed by Martin Scorsese and featuring a knock out cast that includes Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci and Ray Liotta, this movie was bound for glory from the get go. After almost doubling it's budget at the box office and receiving six Oscar nominations, it is no surprise to know that Goodfellas is now regarded as one of the best films of all time. It has been deemed "culturally, historically and aesthetically significant" and was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Untied States Library of Congress.
Henry Hill, a half Irish- half Italian New York gangster, works his way up through the mob hierarchy with his two friends over a thirty year span.
This movie is arguably the high point in Martin Scorsese's career, and even if you don't enjoy gangster movies, it is difficult to not get completely dragged into this saga. The performances are flawless, the story is interesting - made even more intriguing by the fact that it is based on real events, and when it comes to mafia movies, this was the first film to rise anywhere close to Coppola's greatness in a very long time. It's unmissable stuff.
FINAL SAY: Not very good fellas at all.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
GLORY
Release Date: 1989
Rating: M
Running Time: 124 mins
Directed by Edward Zwick, this American war movie will move you completely with it's touching tale of human endurance and the struggle for equality.
Glory was nominated for five Academy Awards and deservingly won three of them, including one for Denzel Washington for Best Supporting Actor for his stirring portrayal of Silas Trip.
The 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry was one of the first military units of the Union Army during the American Civil War to consist entirely of African-American men, except for it's officers. Under the command of Colonel Shaw, the regiment not only bravely fought at the Second Battle of Fort Wagner but also endured extreme racism, prejudice and hardship along the way.
Glory is a 'based on a true story' film that you won't forget any time soon and it is easily one of the best civil war films to have ever been made. The cast is exceptional, particularly Denzel Washington who gives the best performance of his career to date in my opinion. He is exceptionally well supported by Matthew Broderick and Morgan Freeman, and the entire experience is emotional and unforgettable. A definite must see movie for fans of historical American war cinema, and even those who aren't.
FINAL SAY: If you men will take no pay, then none of us will.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1989
Rating: M
Running Time: 124 mins
Directed by Edward Zwick, this American war movie will move you completely with it's touching tale of human endurance and the struggle for equality.
Glory was nominated for five Academy Awards and deservingly won three of them, including one for Denzel Washington for Best Supporting Actor for his stirring portrayal of Silas Trip.
The 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry was one of the first military units of the Union Army during the American Civil War to consist entirely of African-American men, except for it's officers. Under the command of Colonel Shaw, the regiment not only bravely fought at the Second Battle of Fort Wagner but also endured extreme racism, prejudice and hardship along the way.
Glory is a 'based on a true story' film that you won't forget any time soon and it is easily one of the best civil war films to have ever been made. The cast is exceptional, particularly Denzel Washington who gives the best performance of his career to date in my opinion. He is exceptionally well supported by Matthew Broderick and Morgan Freeman, and the entire experience is emotional and unforgettable. A definite must see movie for fans of historical American war cinema, and even those who aren't.
FINAL SAY: If you men will take no pay, then none of us will.
4 Chilli Peppers
FULL METAL JACKET
Release Date: 1987
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 116 mins
Directed and produced by Stanley Kubrick and based on Hasford's 1979 novel The Short-Timers, Full Metal Jacket really seemed to polarize audiences when it was released. It has been praised as the precision of Kubrick's film-making, and it has also been considered too muddled in it's moral message, so you may love it or hate, personally I really liked it, and although I don't consider it to be the quintessential Kubrick experience, it certainly has merit.
A two-part movie that follows the lives of a group of young men as they undergo Marine Corp basic training and are then shipped off to the Vietnam War. The first half of the movie follows J.T. 'Joker' Davis (Matthew Modine) as he endures the hardships of his training under the brutal eye of Gny. Sgt. Hartman (R. Lee Ermey) and witnesses the cruel torment of a recruit named Leonard 'Gomer Pyle' Lawrence (Vincent D'Onofrio). In the second half Davis goes to War working as a combat journalist, a job that requires him to record the horrors during the Tet offensive.
I clearly recall seeing this movie for the first time when I was around 15, and I remember it having a profoundly shocking effect on me. D'Onofrio is incredible here, he clearly put his heart and soul into his character and put on so much weight to play his role, that he still holds the record for putting on the most weight for an acting part.
This is definitely a grimy watch, and I did tangle with placing it on my gritty list, but it was too much war to go anywhere else, just be prepared to feel unsettled.
FINAL SAY: The dead only know one thing: it is better to be alive.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1987
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 116 mins
Directed and produced by Stanley Kubrick and based on Hasford's 1979 novel The Short-Timers, Full Metal Jacket really seemed to polarize audiences when it was released. It has been praised as the precision of Kubrick's film-making, and it has also been considered too muddled in it's moral message, so you may love it or hate, personally I really liked it, and although I don't consider it to be the quintessential Kubrick experience, it certainly has merit.
A two-part movie that follows the lives of a group of young men as they undergo Marine Corp basic training and are then shipped off to the Vietnam War. The first half of the movie follows J.T. 'Joker' Davis (Matthew Modine) as he endures the hardships of his training under the brutal eye of Gny. Sgt. Hartman (R. Lee Ermey) and witnesses the cruel torment of a recruit named Leonard 'Gomer Pyle' Lawrence (Vincent D'Onofrio). In the second half Davis goes to War working as a combat journalist, a job that requires him to record the horrors during the Tet offensive.
I clearly recall seeing this movie for the first time when I was around 15, and I remember it having a profoundly shocking effect on me. D'Onofrio is incredible here, he clearly put his heart and soul into his character and put on so much weight to play his role, that he still holds the record for putting on the most weight for an acting part.
This is definitely a grimy watch, and I did tangle with placing it on my gritty list, but it was too much war to go anywhere else, just be prepared to feel unsettled.
FINAL SAY: The dead only know one thing: it is better to be alive.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
PLATOON
Release Date: 1986
Rating: M
Running Time: 120 mins
Directed by Oliver Stone, and based on his own personal experiences of war, this gritty and emotional journey into the lives of a platoon of American soldiers in the Vietnam War won the 1987 Oscar for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Sound and Best Film Editing, and rapidly became the must see movie of that year.
Chris Taylor (Charlie Sheen), a college drop out enlists in the U.S. Army and volunteers for combat duty in Vietnam. Once there, Chris realizes the utter chaos of War and the shattering consequences that come with it.
Platoon has long been considered one of the best and most realistic depictions of the Vietnam War, and the horrors of War are fully explored here; the drug use, the blood shed, the rape and the senseless slaying of innocents are all brought to full light. The cast is tremendous, with Willem Dafoe making himself a household name, Tom Berenger bringing his best, Johnny Depp making his debut and Charlie Sheen showing us why he got all that fame that turned him into into such a colossal waste-head.
This movie does feel personal, and I think that is what gives it such an edge, it is also visually stunning, and gives viewers a believable taste of what the terror of the Vietnam War was like.
FINAL SAY: Hell is the impossibility of reason.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1986
Rating: M
Running Time: 120 mins
Directed by Oliver Stone, and based on his own personal experiences of war, this gritty and emotional journey into the lives of a platoon of American soldiers in the Vietnam War won the 1987 Oscar for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Sound and Best Film Editing, and rapidly became the must see movie of that year.
Chris Taylor (Charlie Sheen), a college drop out enlists in the U.S. Army and volunteers for combat duty in Vietnam. Once there, Chris realizes the utter chaos of War and the shattering consequences that come with it.
Platoon has long been considered one of the best and most realistic depictions of the Vietnam War, and the horrors of War are fully explored here; the drug use, the blood shed, the rape and the senseless slaying of innocents are all brought to full light. The cast is tremendous, with Willem Dafoe making himself a household name, Tom Berenger bringing his best, Johnny Depp making his debut and Charlie Sheen showing us why he got all that fame that turned him into into such a colossal waste-head.
This movie does feel personal, and I think that is what gives it such an edge, it is also visually stunning, and gives viewers a believable taste of what the terror of the Vietnam War was like.
FINAL SAY: Hell is the impossibility of reason.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
BLOOD SIMPLE
Release Date: 1984
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 97 mins
A debut directorial effort from Ethan and Joel Coen, and a mighty fine psychological crime thriller. The term 'blood simple' derives from the Dashiell Hammett novel Red Harvest, and describes the addled, fearful mindset of people after prolonged immersion in violent situations, which perfectly sums up the mood of this film.
A private eye/ hitman is employed by a Texan Bar owner to 'take out' his unfaithful wife and her lover, but things become far more complicated when the hitman decides to do some dirty double crossing of his own.
This is a fantastically gripping, seedy and intriguing watch. Some fairly demented interludes occur, and although this isn't exactly an action packed movie, it is a violent one, with the blood flowing thick and fast.
A very young Frances McDormand does a superb job in her role of the unfaithful spouse, not only winning over two hearts on screen, but also marrying Joel Coen in real life that very same year.
FINAL SAY: He was alive when I buried him.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1984
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 97 mins
A debut directorial effort from Ethan and Joel Coen, and a mighty fine psychological crime thriller. The term 'blood simple' derives from the Dashiell Hammett novel Red Harvest, and describes the addled, fearful mindset of people after prolonged immersion in violent situations, which perfectly sums up the mood of this film.
A private eye/ hitman is employed by a Texan Bar owner to 'take out' his unfaithful wife and her lover, but things become far more complicated when the hitman decides to do some dirty double crossing of his own.
This is a fantastically gripping, seedy and intriguing watch. Some fairly demented interludes occur, and although this isn't exactly an action packed movie, it is a violent one, with the blood flowing thick and fast.
A very young Frances McDormand does a superb job in her role of the unfaithful spouse, not only winning over two hearts on screen, but also marrying Joel Coen in real life that very same year.
FINAL SAY: He was alive when I buried him.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
SCARFACE
Release Date: 1983
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 170 mins
Directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone, this ultra-violent American crime drama tells the story of a Cuban refugee named Tony Montana, who arrives in Miami during the 1980's with nothing to his name and rises to become a powerful drug kingpin.
Upon it's release, the critics slammed Scarface, describing it as an 'empty and overblown B grade movie,' it has since gone onto become a huge cult classic, gracing many must see movie lists and proving that it was well ahead of its time.
This is a role that Al Pacino was meant to play, and he just shines as the evil and narcissistic power-monger Montana, giving clout and credibility to the overall impact of the film. Michelle Pfeiffer is also very good as Montana's love interest and trophy wife, flexing her acting ability and looking believably bored throughout.
I actually really enjoyed this film with all of its seedy interludes and ridiculously violent behaviours. If you are going to watch a De Palma film like Scarface, that is about a ruthless drug dealer and that also has a very clear R rating, then I think that you are prepared to see thug-life behaviour. In the end, I wasn't shocked by the violence, but more revolted by the bleak and mostly unhappy portrayal of the life of an insane drug kingpin.
FINAL SAY: Say hello to my little friend!
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1983
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 170 mins
Directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone, this ultra-violent American crime drama tells the story of a Cuban refugee named Tony Montana, who arrives in Miami during the 1980's with nothing to his name and rises to become a powerful drug kingpin.
Upon it's release, the critics slammed Scarface, describing it as an 'empty and overblown B grade movie,' it has since gone onto become a huge cult classic, gracing many must see movie lists and proving that it was well ahead of its time.
This is a role that Al Pacino was meant to play, and he just shines as the evil and narcissistic power-monger Montana, giving clout and credibility to the overall impact of the film. Michelle Pfeiffer is also very good as Montana's love interest and trophy wife, flexing her acting ability and looking believably bored throughout.
I actually really enjoyed this film with all of its seedy interludes and ridiculously violent behaviours. If you are going to watch a De Palma film like Scarface, that is about a ruthless drug dealer and that also has a very clear R rating, then I think that you are prepared to see thug-life behaviour. In the end, I wasn't shocked by the violence, but more revolted by the bleak and mostly unhappy portrayal of the life of an insane drug kingpin.
FINAL SAY: Say hello to my little friend!
4 Chilli Peppers
ESCAPE FROM NEW YORK
Release Date: 1981
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 99 mins
Set in the near future, which was 1997 when this was made, the US has become so incredibly out of control and crime ridden that Manhattan Island in New York has been converted into a maximum security prison. The president has been captured by the prisoners on the island after an air crash, so they send in an ex soldier named Snake Plissken (Kurt Russell) and give him 22 hours to recover him.
This is probably one of John Carpenters better movies, it has a plausibly grimy atmosphere and a believably bleek futuristic setting. Sure it's effects have aged, but as far as action goes, its a solid movie, and considering its modest budget, it was always destined to become a cult classic.
FINAL SAY: Once you go in, you don't come out.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1981
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 99 mins
Set in the near future, which was 1997 when this was made, the US has become so incredibly out of control and crime ridden that Manhattan Island in New York has been converted into a maximum security prison. The president has been captured by the prisoners on the island after an air crash, so they send in an ex soldier named Snake Plissken (Kurt Russell) and give him 22 hours to recover him.
This is probably one of John Carpenters better movies, it has a plausibly grimy atmosphere and a believably bleek futuristic setting. Sure it's effects have aged, but as far as action goes, its a solid movie, and considering its modest budget, it was always destined to become a cult classic.
FINAL SAY: Once you go in, you don't come out.
3 Chilli Peppers
RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK
INDIANA JONES AND THE TEMPLE OF DOOM
INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE
INDIANA JONES AND KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL
INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY
Release Date: 1981, 1984, 1989, 2008 AND 2023
Rating: M
Running Time: 624 mins total
Action and adventure abound with these five entertaining and incredibly fun Indiana Jones movies. Created by Star Wars great George Lucas and directed by Steven Spielberg, each story is set across different time periods and closely follows the adventures and explorations of archaeologist Dr. Henry Walton "Indiana" Jones.
The first movie sees Indy searching for the Lost Ark of the Covenant and fighting against the Nazis, the second instalment is set in India and involves a search for some mystical stones, the third sees Indy team up with his dad to find the Holy Grail, in the fourth instalment Indy meets his son and takes us on a science fiction search for an 'otherworldly' artifact called the Crystal Skull and in the last instalment Indiana is racing against time to retrieve a legendary dial that can change the course of history.
These movies are superb, they encapsulate everything good about action and adventure in a family friendly way. Harrison Ford is at his best as Indiana, his trademark hat, whip and fear of snakes are played out in each movie and Ford does a good job of being just enough tough guy and intellectual in equal measure. Sure he's a shitty archaeologist, generally destroying every tomb he engages, but he takes on all of his challenges with such a dynamic energy that his character's charms are utterly infectious. Sean Connery is a good addition as Indy's dad and Shia LaBeouf was a wise choice for Indy's son. Karen Allen's character Marion is easily my favourite of all of Indy's love interests throughout the series, being both beautiful and ballsy and also sweetly clueless at times. The overall cast is immense and consistently strong, as is the fast paced action and intriguing storylines, these are a real winner.
FINAL SAY: Professor of Archaeology, expert on the occult and obtainer of rare antiquities.
4 Chilli Peppers
INDIANA JONES AND THE TEMPLE OF DOOM
INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE
INDIANA JONES AND KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL
INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY
Release Date: 1981, 1984, 1989, 2008 AND 2023
Rating: M
Running Time: 624 mins total
Action and adventure abound with these five entertaining and incredibly fun Indiana Jones movies. Created by Star Wars great George Lucas and directed by Steven Spielberg, each story is set across different time periods and closely follows the adventures and explorations of archaeologist Dr. Henry Walton "Indiana" Jones.
The first movie sees Indy searching for the Lost Ark of the Covenant and fighting against the Nazis, the second instalment is set in India and involves a search for some mystical stones, the third sees Indy team up with his dad to find the Holy Grail, in the fourth instalment Indy meets his son and takes us on a science fiction search for an 'otherworldly' artifact called the Crystal Skull and in the last instalment Indiana is racing against time to retrieve a legendary dial that can change the course of history.
These movies are superb, they encapsulate everything good about action and adventure in a family friendly way. Harrison Ford is at his best as Indiana, his trademark hat, whip and fear of snakes are played out in each movie and Ford does a good job of being just enough tough guy and intellectual in equal measure. Sure he's a shitty archaeologist, generally destroying every tomb he engages, but he takes on all of his challenges with such a dynamic energy that his character's charms are utterly infectious. Sean Connery is a good addition as Indy's dad and Shia LaBeouf was a wise choice for Indy's son. Karen Allen's character Marion is easily my favourite of all of Indy's love interests throughout the series, being both beautiful and ballsy and also sweetly clueless at times. The overall cast is immense and consistently strong, as is the fast paced action and intriguing storylines, these are a real winner.
FINAL SAY: Professor of Archaeology, expert on the occult and obtainer of rare antiquities.
4 Chilli Peppers
APOCALYPSE NOW - REDUX
Release Date: 1979
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 210 mins
Shrouded in controversy during it's filming, this ground-breaking masterpiece offering from Francis Ford Coppola provides some extremely provocative viewing. This "Redux" version literally means "returned" from exile- but what it really means is that it has been expanded and remastered from the original version, adding considerable length but also spectacular detail to the overall effect.
Nominated for eight Academy Awards, and confusingly only winning two, but winning the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, Apocalypse Now is rife with surreal imagery and symbolism that details the horror, violence, confusion and madness of the Vietnam War.
US Army assassin Benjamin Willard (Martin Sheen) has been assigned the job of terminating a dangerous and deranged renegade named Colonel Kurtz (Marlon Brando) who has gone rogue and become a Warlord deep within the jungles of Cambodia.
Apocalypse Now is a work of great vision, and is arguably considered to be one of the best Vietnam War movies to have ever been made. The acting here is undoubtedly superb and the budget must have been massive, because no stone has been left unturned when it comes to authenticity and atmosphere. This is one film that will continue to haunt and shock viewers for generations, and it is most certainly deserving of the incredible time that it takes to watch it and then properly absorb it.
FINAL SAY: Terminate with extreme prejudice.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1979
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 210 mins
Shrouded in controversy during it's filming, this ground-breaking masterpiece offering from Francis Ford Coppola provides some extremely provocative viewing. This "Redux" version literally means "returned" from exile- but what it really means is that it has been expanded and remastered from the original version, adding considerable length but also spectacular detail to the overall effect.
Nominated for eight Academy Awards, and confusingly only winning two, but winning the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, Apocalypse Now is rife with surreal imagery and symbolism that details the horror, violence, confusion and madness of the Vietnam War.
US Army assassin Benjamin Willard (Martin Sheen) has been assigned the job of terminating a dangerous and deranged renegade named Colonel Kurtz (Marlon Brando) who has gone rogue and become a Warlord deep within the jungles of Cambodia.
Apocalypse Now is a work of great vision, and is arguably considered to be one of the best Vietnam War movies to have ever been made. The acting here is undoubtedly superb and the budget must have been massive, because no stone has been left unturned when it comes to authenticity and atmosphere. This is one film that will continue to haunt and shock viewers for generations, and it is most certainly deserving of the incredible time that it takes to watch it and then properly absorb it.
FINAL SAY: Terminate with extreme prejudice.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
THE DEER HUNTER
Release Date: 1978
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 183 mins
Having only viewed this movie for the first time recently, I was really impressed with the fact that none of the drama has lost it's oomph. With a stellar ensemble cast, boasting the likes of Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken and Meryl Streep, how could this movie not pack a wallop?
Directed by Michael Cimino, this is a powerful and compelling look at the effects that the Vietnam War had on the lives of three blue collar workers from a small industrial town in Pennsylvania. Nominated for nine Academy Awards and winner of five, including Best Picture, The Deer Hunter swiftly became a must see movie for fans of quality war drama.
Robert De Niro and Christopher Walken are delivering on an epic level, covering gritty and controversial material with real conviction and deeply moving portrayals. Although it could be viewed as overly sentimental, the storyline and characters carry any minor flaws in this film onto greater heights; making it one of the most meaningful and poignant war dramas to have ever been made.
FINAL SAY: We gotta play with more bullets.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1978
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 183 mins
Having only viewed this movie for the first time recently, I was really impressed with the fact that none of the drama has lost it's oomph. With a stellar ensemble cast, boasting the likes of Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken and Meryl Streep, how could this movie not pack a wallop?
Directed by Michael Cimino, this is a powerful and compelling look at the effects that the Vietnam War had on the lives of three blue collar workers from a small industrial town in Pennsylvania. Nominated for nine Academy Awards and winner of five, including Best Picture, The Deer Hunter swiftly became a must see movie for fans of quality war drama.
Robert De Niro and Christopher Walken are delivering on an epic level, covering gritty and controversial material with real conviction and deeply moving portrayals. Although it could be viewed as overly sentimental, the storyline and characters carry any minor flaws in this film onto greater heights; making it one of the most meaningful and poignant war dramas to have ever been made.
FINAL SAY: We gotta play with more bullets.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE OUTLAW JOSEY WALES
Release Date: 1976
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 135 mins
This movie always makes me think of my father, whom I watched this film with on many occasions as a teenager. After a recent re-watch, my memories of The Outlaw Josey Wales being a brilliant western were truly galvanized because it still delivers completely.
Directed by Clint Eastwood, who also stars in the lead role of Josey Wales, the film is an adaption of the novel The Rebel Outlaw: Josey Wales by Forrest Carter and in 1996 it was selected for preservation by the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress for being deemed "culturally, historically and aesthetically significant."
Josey Wales, a Missouri farmer, has his family brutally murdered by Union militants during the civil war. Driven to revenge, Wales joins a Confederate guerrilla band and fights in the civil war. After the war ends, all of the fighters except Wales surrender to Union officers and are massacred. Wales becomes an outlaw and is pursued by bounty hunters and the same Union soldiers that murdered his family.
The cast here is strong, with particularly noteworthy performance from Chief Dan George, Geraldine Keams and Will Sampson as the stoic chief Ten Bears, but this is Eastwood's movie all the way and he is astonishingly engaging as Wales.
As far as westerns go, The Outlaw Josey Wales is a hard one to top and it will always be one of my personal favourites.
FINAL SAY: Dyin' ain't much of a living boy.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1976
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 135 mins
This movie always makes me think of my father, whom I watched this film with on many occasions as a teenager. After a recent re-watch, my memories of The Outlaw Josey Wales being a brilliant western were truly galvanized because it still delivers completely.
Directed by Clint Eastwood, who also stars in the lead role of Josey Wales, the film is an adaption of the novel The Rebel Outlaw: Josey Wales by Forrest Carter and in 1996 it was selected for preservation by the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress for being deemed "culturally, historically and aesthetically significant."
Josey Wales, a Missouri farmer, has his family brutally murdered by Union militants during the civil war. Driven to revenge, Wales joins a Confederate guerrilla band and fights in the civil war. After the war ends, all of the fighters except Wales surrender to Union officers and are massacred. Wales becomes an outlaw and is pursued by bounty hunters and the same Union soldiers that murdered his family.
The cast here is strong, with particularly noteworthy performance from Chief Dan George, Geraldine Keams and Will Sampson as the stoic chief Ten Bears, but this is Eastwood's movie all the way and he is astonishingly engaging as Wales.
As far as westerns go, The Outlaw Josey Wales is a hard one to top and it will always be one of my personal favourites.
FINAL SAY: Dyin' ain't much of a living boy.
4 Chilli Peppers
TAXI DRIVER
Release Date: 1976
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 113 mins
Directed by Martin Scorese and written by Paul Schrader, this movie explores the psychological madness of a lonely night cab driver and war veteran, working in New York City. Nominated for four Academy Awards and winner of 27 other accolades, Taxi Driver has become a must see movie for lovers of challenging and intense cinematic experiences.
Travis Bickle (Robert De Niro) is an insomniac and night-time cab driver. He is desperate, and yet unable to make a meaningful connection with anyone, and his attempts to connect with others fail dismally. His lonely night journeys through the seedy underbelly of the city only fuel and feed his isolation, disgust and seething violent tendencies, eventually manifesting into madness and chaos.
Taxi Driver was a milestone in the careers of Scorsese and De Niro, showcasing their incredible talents and galvanizing their abilities in cinema. Although Taxi Driver is clearly underpinned by the psychotic behaviours of Bickle, it is also a richly humanistic story about the disturbing effects of urban alienation, especially when combined with other external factors - which essentially creates 'the perfect storm' scenario.
The acting is second to none, and De Niro is more than well supported by the likes of Cybill Shepherd, Harvey Keitel, Peter Boyle, Albert Brooks and a very young Jodi Foster. When it comes to intense, quality drama, Taxi Driver is certainly hard to beat.
FINAL SAY: You talkin' to me?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1976
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 113 mins
Directed by Martin Scorese and written by Paul Schrader, this movie explores the psychological madness of a lonely night cab driver and war veteran, working in New York City. Nominated for four Academy Awards and winner of 27 other accolades, Taxi Driver has become a must see movie for lovers of challenging and intense cinematic experiences.
Travis Bickle (Robert De Niro) is an insomniac and night-time cab driver. He is desperate, and yet unable to make a meaningful connection with anyone, and his attempts to connect with others fail dismally. His lonely night journeys through the seedy underbelly of the city only fuel and feed his isolation, disgust and seething violent tendencies, eventually manifesting into madness and chaos.
Taxi Driver was a milestone in the careers of Scorsese and De Niro, showcasing their incredible talents and galvanizing their abilities in cinema. Although Taxi Driver is clearly underpinned by the psychotic behaviours of Bickle, it is also a richly humanistic story about the disturbing effects of urban alienation, especially when combined with other external factors - which essentially creates 'the perfect storm' scenario.
The acting is second to none, and De Niro is more than well supported by the likes of Cybill Shepherd, Harvey Keitel, Peter Boyle, Albert Brooks and a very young Jodi Foster. When it comes to intense, quality drama, Taxi Driver is certainly hard to beat.
FINAL SAY: You talkin' to me?
4 Chilli Peppers
THE GODFATHER 1 & 2
Release Date: 1972 and 1974
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 375 mins total
People may hate me for putting these two giants together into one review, but I think that they are quite possibly the best sequel movies that I have ever seen in my life. Rarely does a second instalment eclipse an already incredible first movie, but here is the proof - The Godfather 1 and 2.
Completely complimentary to each other and both brilliantly directed by Francis Ford Coppola, they have gone down in history as the best crime dramas to grace the screen. The Godfather won the Best Picture Oscar and Marlon Brando won the Best Leading Actor Oscar for his incredible performance of Don Vito Corleone. The Godfather 2 went on to take out a further six Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screen Writing and Best Supporting Actor for Robert De Niro.
The Godfather tells the story of an aging crime head that is looking to hand on his position to his reluctant son. A series of rather unpleasant events occur when the well known crime families start to war between themselves, exacting their own violent and vigilante justice in disturbingly blood thirsty ways.
The Godfather 2 is centred on the early life and times of Vito Corleone, taking us back to New York in the 1920's and also following his son's attempts to expand the family business into Las Vegas, Hollywood and Cuba during the 1950's.
It's a treasure trove of the finest actors, doing the very worst things. Through these movies, we see that there really is no stronger bond than 'the family' and although there are a lot of characters to dislike, there is also a lot of emotion and intense obligation that is hugely magnified by the mostly unforgiving Mafia powers. These movies are unmissable dramas, they are masterpieces and should be on everyone's must see lists.
FINAL SAY: I put horses heads in people's bed, 'cos I am the mob.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1972 and 1974
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 375 mins total
People may hate me for putting these two giants together into one review, but I think that they are quite possibly the best sequel movies that I have ever seen in my life. Rarely does a second instalment eclipse an already incredible first movie, but here is the proof - The Godfather 1 and 2.
Completely complimentary to each other and both brilliantly directed by Francis Ford Coppola, they have gone down in history as the best crime dramas to grace the screen. The Godfather won the Best Picture Oscar and Marlon Brando won the Best Leading Actor Oscar for his incredible performance of Don Vito Corleone. The Godfather 2 went on to take out a further six Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screen Writing and Best Supporting Actor for Robert De Niro.
The Godfather tells the story of an aging crime head that is looking to hand on his position to his reluctant son. A series of rather unpleasant events occur when the well known crime families start to war between themselves, exacting their own violent and vigilante justice in disturbingly blood thirsty ways.
The Godfather 2 is centred on the early life and times of Vito Corleone, taking us back to New York in the 1920's and also following his son's attempts to expand the family business into Las Vegas, Hollywood and Cuba during the 1950's.
It's a treasure trove of the finest actors, doing the very worst things. Through these movies, we see that there really is no stronger bond than 'the family' and although there are a lot of characters to dislike, there is also a lot of emotion and intense obligation that is hugely magnified by the mostly unforgiving Mafia powers. These movies are unmissable dramas, they are masterpieces and should be on everyone's must see lists.
FINAL SAY: I put horses heads in people's bed, 'cos I am the mob.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
SEVEN SAMURAI
Release Date: 1954
Rating: PG
Running Time: 207 mins
A Japanese action- adventure film co-written, edited and directed by Akira Kurosawa. Seven Samurai has truly stood the test of time and is still regarded as one of the most highly influential, remade, reworked and referenced films in cinema. I must admit that I felt completely bound to see this film because it kept turning up on so many people's must see lists, I knew that I must have been missing something important, and I was because this is an amazing period action movie, that deserves at least one viewing in everyone's life time.
Set in 1586 during the Warring States Period of Japan, a village of local farmers hire seven ronin (masterless samurai) to combat a group of thieving bandits that have been ravaging their crops and terrorizing their families for years.
Seven Samurai is not reliant on gore or effects to depict it's action scenes, there is a real sense of cavalry and style being used here that really enhances the overall effect of the film. As one of the only movies on Rotten Tomatoes to get a full 100% certified fresh rating, this film has just the right mix of everything to keep you interested and engaged, and at over three hours running time, that's really saying something!
FINAL SAY: Danger always strikes when everything seems fine.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1954
Rating: PG
Running Time: 207 mins
A Japanese action- adventure film co-written, edited and directed by Akira Kurosawa. Seven Samurai has truly stood the test of time and is still regarded as one of the most highly influential, remade, reworked and referenced films in cinema. I must admit that I felt completely bound to see this film because it kept turning up on so many people's must see lists, I knew that I must have been missing something important, and I was because this is an amazing period action movie, that deserves at least one viewing in everyone's life time.
Set in 1586 during the Warring States Period of Japan, a village of local farmers hire seven ronin (masterless samurai) to combat a group of thieving bandits that have been ravaging their crops and terrorizing their families for years.
Seven Samurai is not reliant on gore or effects to depict it's action scenes, there is a real sense of cavalry and style being used here that really enhances the overall effect of the film. As one of the only movies on Rotten Tomatoes to get a full 100% certified fresh rating, this film has just the right mix of everything to keep you interested and engaged, and at over three hours running time, that's really saying something!
FINAL SAY: Danger always strikes when everything seems fine.
4.5 Chilli Peppers