IT'S JUST SO COMPLEX
DREAM SCENARIO
Release Date: 2023
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 102 mins
An American fantasy-comedy film written and directed by Kristoffer Borgli that delivers something that is so bizarre, so funny and yet so disturbing in equal measure, and yet it still works completely as well. Nicholas Cage again delivers all of the talent that everyone knows that he has but for perplexing reasons does not always deliver upon; and here he shines brightly and carries the entire film to new levels of humour and discomfort in ways that only Nicholas Cage could.
Paul is a mild manner biology professor that no-one really pays much attention to, that is until he starts to turn up in people's dreams. Paul is rocketed into fame by his ability to be 'inside' everyone's head, but when dreams turn into nightmares, people start to see Paul in a whole new way.
There is something deeply sinister about the storyline in Dream Scenario as it unfolds, leaving the viewer, just like the main protagonist, reeling at the fickle changes of desirable pop culture and the swift retribution of cancel culture. It's certainly a surreal journey into the possibilities of futuristic dream intervention; which in itself is a frighteningly possible scenario to imagine.
FINAL SAY: Trauma is trending these days.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2023
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 102 mins
An American fantasy-comedy film written and directed by Kristoffer Borgli that delivers something that is so bizarre, so funny and yet so disturbing in equal measure, and yet it still works completely as well. Nicholas Cage again delivers all of the talent that everyone knows that he has but for perplexing reasons does not always deliver upon; and here he shines brightly and carries the entire film to new levels of humour and discomfort in ways that only Nicholas Cage could.
Paul is a mild manner biology professor that no-one really pays much attention to, that is until he starts to turn up in people's dreams. Paul is rocketed into fame by his ability to be 'inside' everyone's head, but when dreams turn into nightmares, people start to see Paul in a whole new way.
There is something deeply sinister about the storyline in Dream Scenario as it unfolds, leaving the viewer, just like the main protagonist, reeling at the fickle changes of desirable pop culture and the swift retribution of cancel culture. It's certainly a surreal journey into the possibilities of futuristic dream intervention; which in itself is a frighteningly possible scenario to imagine.
FINAL SAY: Trauma is trending these days.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
SOCIETY OF THE SNOW
Release Date: 2023
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 144 mins
A Spanish survival thriller from director J. A. Bayona centred around the real life Uruguayan 1972 Andes flight disaster. An adaptation of Pablo Vierci's novel of the same name, Society Of The Snow delivers a powerful and emotional story about human endurance, resilience against the odds and survival in the harshest environments.
It's 1972, and the Uruguayan Air Force flight 571, chartered to transport a rugby team to Santiago Chile, crash lands in the heart of the Andes. The crash kills more than half of the passengers and leaves the survivors in a fight for survival in one of the most hostile and unforgiving places on the planet.
Knowing that this is a true story makes this movie all the more challenging to watch as you witness the poor survivors struggling, not only to survive, but to navigate the continual moral conundrums that their unfortunate situation creates. This is an amazing watch, and the attention to detail is just incredible, which is evident when you see the actual photos from the real incident at the end of the movie.
The cast here is also really solid with excellent performances from Enzo Vogrincic, Agustin Pardella and Matias Recalt to name but a few. Released by Netflix, there is an option to watch a dubbed version of this if you struggle with subtitles.
FINAL SAY: There is no greater love than that which gives one's life for one's friends.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2023
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 144 mins
A Spanish survival thriller from director J. A. Bayona centred around the real life Uruguayan 1972 Andes flight disaster. An adaptation of Pablo Vierci's novel of the same name, Society Of The Snow delivers a powerful and emotional story about human endurance, resilience against the odds and survival in the harshest environments.
It's 1972, and the Uruguayan Air Force flight 571, chartered to transport a rugby team to Santiago Chile, crash lands in the heart of the Andes. The crash kills more than half of the passengers and leaves the survivors in a fight for survival in one of the most hostile and unforgiving places on the planet.
Knowing that this is a true story makes this movie all the more challenging to watch as you witness the poor survivors struggling, not only to survive, but to navigate the continual moral conundrums that their unfortunate situation creates. This is an amazing watch, and the attention to detail is just incredible, which is evident when you see the actual photos from the real incident at the end of the movie.
The cast here is also really solid with excellent performances from Enzo Vogrincic, Agustin Pardella and Matias Recalt to name but a few. Released by Netflix, there is an option to watch a dubbed version of this if you struggle with subtitles.
FINAL SAY: There is no greater love than that which gives one's life for one's friends.
4 Chilli Peppers
POOR THINGS
Release Date: 2023
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 142 mins
If you are looking for something completely out of the box and utterly unique then look no further, Poor Things delivers on all counts. Brilliantly fantastical, artistically designed and continually teetering on the verge of being absolutely bonkers, this latest offering from visionary director Yorgos Lanthimos is not only his best work, but for me, is one of the best movies of 2023. And after garnering lots of attention for it's salacious behaviours and just as many accolades for it's terrific performances and original story-telling, Poor Things quickly became the must see movie of the year.
Dr. Godwin Baxter, a Frankenstein-eque surgeon, discovers the beautiful, pregnant but unfortunately dead body of a young woman by the edge of a London river. He decides to transplant the brain of her still alive but unborn baby into her adult body and re-animate her, creating 'Bella' a child-like adult in search of delicious and daring experiences.
This is a wildly original romp into madness and hilarity with Emma Stone delivering at her best as Bella, Mark Ruffalo amusing completely as the lecherous deviant Duncan Wedderburn and Willem Dafoe bringing hideous-genius to life as Dr Godwin Baxter. However underneath all of the hilarity is a story that delivers like a modern day fairy-tale of self discovery, enlightenment and deliverance that is both playful and contemplative.
The fantasy design and costumes are strikingly good, the details are just amazing, from start to end. I am fairly sure that this is a film that people are going to talk about for years to come, and one that is destined to become a cult classic. For me, Poor Things hits all the right notes in all the right order, and I couldn't help but applaud it and award it a Hall of Fame - 5 Chilli Peppers of greatness.
FINAL SAY: I have adventured it and found nothing but sugar and violence.
5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2023
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 142 mins
If you are looking for something completely out of the box and utterly unique then look no further, Poor Things delivers on all counts. Brilliantly fantastical, artistically designed and continually teetering on the verge of being absolutely bonkers, this latest offering from visionary director Yorgos Lanthimos is not only his best work, but for me, is one of the best movies of 2023. And after garnering lots of attention for it's salacious behaviours and just as many accolades for it's terrific performances and original story-telling, Poor Things quickly became the must see movie of the year.
Dr. Godwin Baxter, a Frankenstein-eque surgeon, discovers the beautiful, pregnant but unfortunately dead body of a young woman by the edge of a London river. He decides to transplant the brain of her still alive but unborn baby into her adult body and re-animate her, creating 'Bella' a child-like adult in search of delicious and daring experiences.
This is a wildly original romp into madness and hilarity with Emma Stone delivering at her best as Bella, Mark Ruffalo amusing completely as the lecherous deviant Duncan Wedderburn and Willem Dafoe bringing hideous-genius to life as Dr Godwin Baxter. However underneath all of the hilarity is a story that delivers like a modern day fairy-tale of self discovery, enlightenment and deliverance that is both playful and contemplative.
The fantasy design and costumes are strikingly good, the details are just amazing, from start to end. I am fairly sure that this is a film that people are going to talk about for years to come, and one that is destined to become a cult classic. For me, Poor Things hits all the right notes in all the right order, and I couldn't help but applaud it and award it a Hall of Fame - 5 Chilli Peppers of greatness.
FINAL SAY: I have adventured it and found nothing but sugar and violence.
5 Chilli Peppers
YOU WON'T BE ALONE
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 108 mins
A dark Macedonian drama, written and directed by Goran Stolevski, an Australian- Macedonian debut director; and what a debut this is! Stunningly thoughtful and heartbreakingly human, You Won't Be Alone delivers a mesmerising and haunting dark fantasy that stays with you long after the credits have rolled.
In 19th century Macedonia, Maria a "Wolf-Eateress" or witch, marks a newborn baby named Nevena, setting into motion the girl's destiny to become a witch herself. As a witch, Nevena discovers that she can take on the features of others, both human and animal, and by doing so, she can experience alternate lives hidden within the skin of others.
This is deeply provocative and contemplating cinema, strikingly beautiful and extremely original in both storytelling and visual delivery. Prepare to feel - a lot! One moment I was revolted, the next entranced, and then the next moment I was overcome with a great sadness, this film is a powerhouse of emotion and it is a film that I know I will never forget.
The cast here is just terrific, with notable efforts from Noomi Rapace, Alice Englert, Carloto Cotta and Anamaria Marinca as the very creepy Old Maid Maria, and the overall effect has to be seen to be understood. Make time to see this hidden gem, it is astounding.
FINAL SAY: It's a wicked thing this world.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 108 mins
A dark Macedonian drama, written and directed by Goran Stolevski, an Australian- Macedonian debut director; and what a debut this is! Stunningly thoughtful and heartbreakingly human, You Won't Be Alone delivers a mesmerising and haunting dark fantasy that stays with you long after the credits have rolled.
In 19th century Macedonia, Maria a "Wolf-Eateress" or witch, marks a newborn baby named Nevena, setting into motion the girl's destiny to become a witch herself. As a witch, Nevena discovers that she can take on the features of others, both human and animal, and by doing so, she can experience alternate lives hidden within the skin of others.
This is deeply provocative and contemplating cinema, strikingly beautiful and extremely original in both storytelling and visual delivery. Prepare to feel - a lot! One moment I was revolted, the next entranced, and then the next moment I was overcome with a great sadness, this film is a powerhouse of emotion and it is a film that I know I will never forget.
The cast here is just terrific, with notable efforts from Noomi Rapace, Alice Englert, Carloto Cotta and Anamaria Marinca as the very creepy Old Maid Maria, and the overall effect has to be seen to be understood. Make time to see this hidden gem, it is astounding.
FINAL SAY: It's a wicked thing this world.
4 Chilli Peppers
RRR (RISE, ROAR, REVOLT)
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 187 mins
An Indian Telugu-language epic action-drama directed by S. S. Rajamouli. This is a movie that defies all explanation and exceeds with it's extreme excessiveness, there is honestly nothing else like it! This is a film that has it all; action, adventure, drama, intrigue, betrayal, comedy, a love story, a bromance and just when you think you've seen it all, they throw in a musical number as well!
The story centres around two real-life Indian revolutionaries, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheen, exploring their fictional friendship and their fight against the British Raj. Set in the 1920's the plot investigates the undocumented period in their lives when both of the revolutionaries chose to go into obscurity before they began to fight for their country.
This movie is high level entertainment from start to end, it's totally over the top in every way and it works. It is quite long but it is a saga and it is completely captivating at every turn. The street scenes are intensely bustling, the sets are elaborate and extravagant, the CGI is insanely good and the music is bold and magnificent. At the 2023 Golden Globes RRR won the Best Original Score for "Naatu Naatu" making it the first Indian and Asian song to ever receive the award.
This is the kind of film that you just strap in and have a terrific time watching.
FINAL SAY: Your friendship is more valuable than this life.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 187 mins
An Indian Telugu-language epic action-drama directed by S. S. Rajamouli. This is a movie that defies all explanation and exceeds with it's extreme excessiveness, there is honestly nothing else like it! This is a film that has it all; action, adventure, drama, intrigue, betrayal, comedy, a love story, a bromance and just when you think you've seen it all, they throw in a musical number as well!
The story centres around two real-life Indian revolutionaries, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheen, exploring their fictional friendship and their fight against the British Raj. Set in the 1920's the plot investigates the undocumented period in their lives when both of the revolutionaries chose to go into obscurity before they began to fight for their country.
This movie is high level entertainment from start to end, it's totally over the top in every way and it works. It is quite long but it is a saga and it is completely captivating at every turn. The street scenes are intensely bustling, the sets are elaborate and extravagant, the CGI is insanely good and the music is bold and magnificent. At the 2023 Golden Globes RRR won the Best Original Score for "Naatu Naatu" making it the first Indian and Asian song to ever receive the award.
This is the kind of film that you just strap in and have a terrific time watching.
FINAL SAY: Your friendship is more valuable than this life.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
ELVIS
Release Date: 2022
Rating: M
Running Time: 159 mins
A biographical and musical tale about the life of iconic rock star Elvis Presley. Directed by Baz Luhrmann, who co-wrote the screenplay with Sam Bromell, Craig Pearce and Jeremy Doner, Elvis delivers all of the dazzle and pizzazz that we have come to love about Luhrmann's style and the entire film is greatly supported by Austin Butler's outstanding portrayal of the legend himself, Elvis Presley.
Narrated through the eyes of his long time manager Colonel Tom Parker, we see Elvis's rise from his poverty stricken southern childhood to his desperately sad and final performances in Las Vegas prior to his premature death at only 42 years of age.
All of the ups and downs and the trials and triumphs are explored as we traverse the landscape of Elvis's short life which is brought to life in a truly spectacular and respectful fashion. I feel like I learned a lot about 'The King of Rock and Roll' through this film and a lot of what I learned did make me feel quite sad. In essence this really is a tragic tale that is genuinely moving and also deeply touching.
Austin Butler has set himself up for a nod at the Oscar's this year with his amazing effort here and he is very well supported by Tom Hanks as the Colonel and young Aussie actress Olivia DeJonge as Priscilla. Overall, the music and costumes are incredible and like all Luhrmann efforts, they are always best seen on the big screen if you can. For an almost three hour film, there wasn't a dull moment, which is an achievement in itself!
FINAL SAY: Wise men say, only fools rush in.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2022
Rating: M
Running Time: 159 mins
A biographical and musical tale about the life of iconic rock star Elvis Presley. Directed by Baz Luhrmann, who co-wrote the screenplay with Sam Bromell, Craig Pearce and Jeremy Doner, Elvis delivers all of the dazzle and pizzazz that we have come to love about Luhrmann's style and the entire film is greatly supported by Austin Butler's outstanding portrayal of the legend himself, Elvis Presley.
Narrated through the eyes of his long time manager Colonel Tom Parker, we see Elvis's rise from his poverty stricken southern childhood to his desperately sad and final performances in Las Vegas prior to his premature death at only 42 years of age.
All of the ups and downs and the trials and triumphs are explored as we traverse the landscape of Elvis's short life which is brought to life in a truly spectacular and respectful fashion. I feel like I learned a lot about 'The King of Rock and Roll' through this film and a lot of what I learned did make me feel quite sad. In essence this really is a tragic tale that is genuinely moving and also deeply touching.
Austin Butler has set himself up for a nod at the Oscar's this year with his amazing effort here and he is very well supported by Tom Hanks as the Colonel and young Aussie actress Olivia DeJonge as Priscilla. Overall, the music and costumes are incredible and like all Luhrmann efforts, they are always best seen on the big screen if you can. For an almost three hour film, there wasn't a dull moment, which is an achievement in itself!
FINAL SAY: Wise men say, only fools rush in.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 139 mins
Spanning multiverses and traversing multiple genres including black comedy, fantasy, martial arts, science fiction and even animation, Everything Everywhere All At Once is a hectic and action packed viewing experience that is pretty hard to define. Written and directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert (collectively known as the "Daniels") together deliver a unique and at times insanely imaginative film that has to be seen to be truly understood.
Evelyn, a Chinese laundromat owner that is struggling to connect with her current relationships, discovers that she alone can save the world by jumping into other existing universes and exploring the different lives that she has lived.
This is easily the most creative and original exploration of complex and enduring relationships that I have ever experienced and for that reason, I really enjoyed it. However, it must be said that sometimes this film is overly convoluted and utterly ridiculous, but in general it just adds to the charm of the story, which is essentially all about compassion, loyalty and deeper understanding.
The cast is just terrific, especially Michelle Yeoh who masterfully demonstrates her abilities as both an excellent actress and a kick arse martial arts expert. Also, it was so enjoyable to see Ke Huy Quan on screen again, I don't think I've seen him since The Goonies and Indiana Jones days, and he is really likable as Evelyn's husband Waymond; and Jamie Lee Curtis and Stephanie Hsu also deserve a nod here for their fine efforts.
Overall, this is a completely wacky ride but if you go in with an open-mind, you'll have a good time.
FINAL SAY: I got bored one day and put everything on a bagel.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 139 mins
Spanning multiverses and traversing multiple genres including black comedy, fantasy, martial arts, science fiction and even animation, Everything Everywhere All At Once is a hectic and action packed viewing experience that is pretty hard to define. Written and directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert (collectively known as the "Daniels") together deliver a unique and at times insanely imaginative film that has to be seen to be truly understood.
Evelyn, a Chinese laundromat owner that is struggling to connect with her current relationships, discovers that she alone can save the world by jumping into other existing universes and exploring the different lives that she has lived.
This is easily the most creative and original exploration of complex and enduring relationships that I have ever experienced and for that reason, I really enjoyed it. However, it must be said that sometimes this film is overly convoluted and utterly ridiculous, but in general it just adds to the charm of the story, which is essentially all about compassion, loyalty and deeper understanding.
The cast is just terrific, especially Michelle Yeoh who masterfully demonstrates her abilities as both an excellent actress and a kick arse martial arts expert. Also, it was so enjoyable to see Ke Huy Quan on screen again, I don't think I've seen him since The Goonies and Indiana Jones days, and he is really likable as Evelyn's husband Waymond; and Jamie Lee Curtis and Stephanie Hsu also deserve a nod here for their fine efforts.
Overall, this is a completely wacky ride but if you go in with an open-mind, you'll have a good time.
FINAL SAY: I got bored one day and put everything on a bagel.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE FIVE DEVILS
Release: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 103 mins
A French fantasy-thriller film directed by Léa Mysuis, who co-wrote the screenplay with Paul Guilhaume; The Five Devils delivers something unexpectedly unique and deeply mesmerising. This slow burn offering may not be to everyone's tastes, but I found it engrossing and wickedly clever.
Young Vicky has a magical gift, she can smell and reproduce any scent and she collects them in various jars in her room. When her father's sister, who has recently been released from prison comes to visit, she triggers another ability in Vicky that has implications for them all.
With magical undertones and hidden family complications a plenty, this is a complex film that reveals itself gently, but ultimately delivers a full and fulfilling ending that many will be seeking. The acting is seriously on point with a consistently excellent cast but one cannot overlook the stellar efforts of Sally Dramé, as the coolest little witch you could ever imagine! The Five Devils is, without a doubt, an intriguing, distressing and enjoyable watch.
FINAL SAY: Can you smell me?
3 Chilli Peppers
Release: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 103 mins
A French fantasy-thriller film directed by Léa Mysuis, who co-wrote the screenplay with Paul Guilhaume; The Five Devils delivers something unexpectedly unique and deeply mesmerising. This slow burn offering may not be to everyone's tastes, but I found it engrossing and wickedly clever.
Young Vicky has a magical gift, she can smell and reproduce any scent and she collects them in various jars in her room. When her father's sister, who has recently been released from prison comes to visit, she triggers another ability in Vicky that has implications for them all.
With magical undertones and hidden family complications a plenty, this is a complex film that reveals itself gently, but ultimately delivers a full and fulfilling ending that many will be seeking. The acting is seriously on point with a consistently excellent cast but one cannot overlook the stellar efforts of Sally Dramé, as the coolest little witch you could ever imagine! The Five Devils is, without a doubt, an intriguing, distressing and enjoyable watch.
FINAL SAY: Can you smell me?
3 Chilli Peppers
THE WORST PERSON IN THE WORLD
Release: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 126 mins
A Norwegian romantic-comedy directed by Joachim Trier that gained great acclaim after premiering at the Cannes Film Festival in 2021. I really enjoyed both the complexities and the honest simplicity of this film. The lead character of Julie (played by Renate Reinsve) gives great depth to the 'messy woman' trope and makes this story endearing, captivating and delightful in an effortless way.
Over four years we are witness to the life of Julie; a haphazard 20-something, trying to navigate the pitfalls and joys of love and it's many complications.
The acting here is first class and the relationships feel genuine and unforced. There is a lot of onscreen chemistry between the actors in general and the way that the relationship between Elvind (Herbert Nordrum) and Julie unfolds is almost magical. The ache of new love is captured perfectly and the loyalty of old love is delivered sensitively here and for that reason, I adored it completely.
FINAL SAY: You were the most important relationship in my life.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 126 mins
A Norwegian romantic-comedy directed by Joachim Trier that gained great acclaim after premiering at the Cannes Film Festival in 2021. I really enjoyed both the complexities and the honest simplicity of this film. The lead character of Julie (played by Renate Reinsve) gives great depth to the 'messy woman' trope and makes this story endearing, captivating and delightful in an effortless way.
Over four years we are witness to the life of Julie; a haphazard 20-something, trying to navigate the pitfalls and joys of love and it's many complications.
The acting here is first class and the relationships feel genuine and unforced. There is a lot of onscreen chemistry between the actors in general and the way that the relationship between Elvind (Herbert Nordrum) and Julie unfolds is almost magical. The ache of new love is captured perfectly and the loyalty of old love is delivered sensitively here and for that reason, I adored it completely.
FINAL SAY: You were the most important relationship in my life.
4 Chilli Peppers
PAUL DOOD'S DEADLY LUNCH BREAK
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 95 mins
This off beat British indie comedy from director Nick Gillespie really seemed to divide audiences, but I was hooked from the ten minute mark. If you like quirky feel good films, with a generous splash of gore then this movie is really going to appeal to you as well.
Paul Dood is a middle aged man, still living with his elderly mother who dreams of becoming an internet star. He pours all of his energy into one audition, that ends up going horribly wrong and costs his mother her life. Distraught and devastated, Paul sets out on his lunch break to exact revenge on the people that mistreated him and his mother on the day of the audition; live streaming everything as he goes.
What ensues is hilarity and ridiculousness to the umpteenth degree, and I found it comical and highly enjoyable in spite of the mixed and often harsh reviews that it received. An all star British cast including Alice Lowry, Steve Oram, Kris Marshall and Johnny Vegas add some clout to the tale, but essentially all the glory goes to Tom Metten, who portrays Paul Dood with an endearing and likeable awkwardness that is impossible to ignore.
Paul Dodd's Deadly Lunch Break may not be for everyone, but it is definitely for lovers of silly hijinks and fuzzy feel good films.
FINAL SAY: Together in electric dreams.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 95 mins
This off beat British indie comedy from director Nick Gillespie really seemed to divide audiences, but I was hooked from the ten minute mark. If you like quirky feel good films, with a generous splash of gore then this movie is really going to appeal to you as well.
Paul Dood is a middle aged man, still living with his elderly mother who dreams of becoming an internet star. He pours all of his energy into one audition, that ends up going horribly wrong and costs his mother her life. Distraught and devastated, Paul sets out on his lunch break to exact revenge on the people that mistreated him and his mother on the day of the audition; live streaming everything as he goes.
What ensues is hilarity and ridiculousness to the umpteenth degree, and I found it comical and highly enjoyable in spite of the mixed and often harsh reviews that it received. An all star British cast including Alice Lowry, Steve Oram, Kris Marshall and Johnny Vegas add some clout to the tale, but essentially all the glory goes to Tom Metten, who portrays Paul Dood with an endearing and likeable awkwardness that is impossible to ignore.
Paul Dodd's Deadly Lunch Break may not be for everyone, but it is definitely for lovers of silly hijinks and fuzzy feel good films.
FINAL SAY: Together in electric dreams.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
FLEE
Release Date: 2021
Rating: M
Running Time: 90 mins
A Danish adult-animation documentary film directed by Jonas Poher Rasmussen that received unanimous acclaim from film festivals and critics alike for its excellent animation, story, thematic content, subject matter and LGBT representation. And there is certainly no denying that Flee is deeply and profoundly affecting from start to end.
A man under the alias of Amin Nawabi recounts the trauma and terror of his hidden past which included fleeing from his home country of Afghanistan to Denmark.
Through gripping, candid and distressing storytelling, we come to view a plight that is practically incomprehensible to most westerners. Flee is essentially a survival story about one man trying to make sense of his shattered past and traumatic experiences in order to embrace the man that he is today.
I saw the English language dubbed version which has Riz Ahmed and Nikolai Coster- Waldau performing as the narrators, and I would definitely recommend this version to English speaking viewers. The film also contains archival film footage of actual events in Afghanistan around the time that Amin fled, and this really adds to the overall impact of this powerful and unforgettable film.
It's definitely not a pleasant story but it is certainly one that needs to be heard by everyone.
FINAL SAY: We have no idea what's going to happen to us.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: M
Running Time: 90 mins
A Danish adult-animation documentary film directed by Jonas Poher Rasmussen that received unanimous acclaim from film festivals and critics alike for its excellent animation, story, thematic content, subject matter and LGBT representation. And there is certainly no denying that Flee is deeply and profoundly affecting from start to end.
A man under the alias of Amin Nawabi recounts the trauma and terror of his hidden past which included fleeing from his home country of Afghanistan to Denmark.
Through gripping, candid and distressing storytelling, we come to view a plight that is practically incomprehensible to most westerners. Flee is essentially a survival story about one man trying to make sense of his shattered past and traumatic experiences in order to embrace the man that he is today.
I saw the English language dubbed version which has Riz Ahmed and Nikolai Coster- Waldau performing as the narrators, and I would definitely recommend this version to English speaking viewers. The film also contains archival film footage of actual events in Afghanistan around the time that Amin fled, and this really adds to the overall impact of this powerful and unforgettable film.
It's definitely not a pleasant story but it is certainly one that needs to be heard by everyone.
FINAL SAY: We have no idea what's going to happen to us.
4 Chilli Peppers
DELICIOUS
Release Date: 2021
Rating: M
Running Time: 112 mins
A delightful French language film from director Eric Besnard that will set your senses on fire and, if you watch it on an empty stomach, will leave you hungry for more. Although Delicious is very loosely based on true events and historical occurrences of the time, you'll forgive its clearly exaggerated liberties and claims because, like me, you'll undoubtedly get swept away in the sheer joy and beauty of the film.
Set in 1789, just before the French Revolution, a talented chef who has been cast aside by his pompous aristocratic master starts his own food adventures in the countryside of France. With the help of a mysterious woman named Louise and some local country folk, he frees himself from being a servant and kick starts the first ever French restaurant.
Gregory Gadebois and Isabelle Carre are terrific in the two lead roles and the whole movie looks incredible from start to end. The food is utterly sumptuous, the characters are genuinely interesting and passionate, the costumes and scenes are delightful and the storyline is charmingly intoxicating.
FINAL SAY: And what do you call this dish?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: M
Running Time: 112 mins
A delightful French language film from director Eric Besnard that will set your senses on fire and, if you watch it on an empty stomach, will leave you hungry for more. Although Delicious is very loosely based on true events and historical occurrences of the time, you'll forgive its clearly exaggerated liberties and claims because, like me, you'll undoubtedly get swept away in the sheer joy and beauty of the film.
Set in 1789, just before the French Revolution, a talented chef who has been cast aside by his pompous aristocratic master starts his own food adventures in the countryside of France. With the help of a mysterious woman named Louise and some local country folk, he frees himself from being a servant and kick starts the first ever French restaurant.
Gregory Gadebois and Isabelle Carre are terrific in the two lead roles and the whole movie looks incredible from start to end. The food is utterly sumptuous, the characters are genuinely interesting and passionate, the costumes and scenes are delightful and the storyline is charmingly intoxicating.
FINAL SAY: And what do you call this dish?
4 Chilli Peppers
WEST SIDE STORY
Release Date: 2021
Rating: M
Running Time: 156 mins
If you still haven't gotten around to seeing the classic musical West Side Story yet, then this latest adaption from Steven Spielberg is a terrific place to start. The second feature length adaptation of the 1957 stage musical of the same name, this version has been lovingly rebooted and features musical composition by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics from Stephen Sondheim. It also boasts the most glorious and colourful costuming, a strong cast of talented young actors and enough singing and dancing to sate any musical lovers needs.
The Jets and the Sharks are rival gangs living in Manhattan's Upper West Side. In the middle of their race war, love unexpectedly blooms between Maria, the head Shark's sister and Tony, a Jet and an ex-convict. However, their love struggles to find its footing amidst the hate crimes and racism that surround them both continually.
Spielberg has delivered something completely loyal to the original script here, but also compassionate to the contemporary world. This sweeping saga of doomed love in a desperate and dangerous place never seems to get old and it is delivered at such an intense and engrossing pace that you barely have time to come up for air before the credits are rolling.
The cast are truly incredible here showing triple threat talent and energy beyond belief. Rachel Zegler who plays Maria won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress - Motion Picture Comedy or Musical and Ariana DeBose steals the show with her stunning portrayal of Anita.
I'm not a huge fan of musicals, but West Side Story is definitely not to be missed.
FINAL SAY: There's a place for us, somewhere a place for us.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: M
Running Time: 156 mins
If you still haven't gotten around to seeing the classic musical West Side Story yet, then this latest adaption from Steven Spielberg is a terrific place to start. The second feature length adaptation of the 1957 stage musical of the same name, this version has been lovingly rebooted and features musical composition by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics from Stephen Sondheim. It also boasts the most glorious and colourful costuming, a strong cast of talented young actors and enough singing and dancing to sate any musical lovers needs.
The Jets and the Sharks are rival gangs living in Manhattan's Upper West Side. In the middle of their race war, love unexpectedly blooms between Maria, the head Shark's sister and Tony, a Jet and an ex-convict. However, their love struggles to find its footing amidst the hate crimes and racism that surround them both continually.
Spielberg has delivered something completely loyal to the original script here, but also compassionate to the contemporary world. This sweeping saga of doomed love in a desperate and dangerous place never seems to get old and it is delivered at such an intense and engrossing pace that you barely have time to come up for air before the credits are rolling.
The cast are truly incredible here showing triple threat talent and energy beyond belief. Rachel Zegler who plays Maria won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress - Motion Picture Comedy or Musical and Ariana DeBose steals the show with her stunning portrayal of Anita.
I'm not a huge fan of musicals, but West Side Story is definitely not to be missed.
FINAL SAY: There's a place for us, somewhere a place for us.
4 Chilli Peppers
ANNETTE
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 139 mins
French director Leos Carax delivers his first English language film and what a unique and mesmerizing film it is. Annette is essentially an art house musical with music and storyline written by Roan Mael and Russell Mael from the quirky American pop duo Sparks, and believe me when I say that Annette is anything but typical.
A provocative stand up comedian called Henry falls in love with a world famous soprano called Anne and before long the two welcome their darling daughter Annette into the world. Annette proves to be an infant like no other, with the voice of an angel and the ability to fly, she is destined to become another big star, but can Henry's temper and Anne's straining relationship with him bear the weight of another star?
The music and storyline here are equal parts whimsical and haunting, making this rock opera pretty unforgettable. Team that with the incredible acting chops of Adam Driver and Marion Cotillard and then add in the fact that the role of Annette is played by a puppet not an actual child for most of the movie; and what you get is a heady recipe for something that is so strange, so unusual and yet so affecting that you wont be able to stop thinking about it after the fact.
Annette is easily one of the most original films of 2021 and it is definitely worth a viewing.
FINAL SAY: We love each other so much.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 139 mins
French director Leos Carax delivers his first English language film and what a unique and mesmerizing film it is. Annette is essentially an art house musical with music and storyline written by Roan Mael and Russell Mael from the quirky American pop duo Sparks, and believe me when I say that Annette is anything but typical.
A provocative stand up comedian called Henry falls in love with a world famous soprano called Anne and before long the two welcome their darling daughter Annette into the world. Annette proves to be an infant like no other, with the voice of an angel and the ability to fly, she is destined to become another big star, but can Henry's temper and Anne's straining relationship with him bear the weight of another star?
The music and storyline here are equal parts whimsical and haunting, making this rock opera pretty unforgettable. Team that with the incredible acting chops of Adam Driver and Marion Cotillard and then add in the fact that the role of Annette is played by a puppet not an actual child for most of the movie; and what you get is a heady recipe for something that is so strange, so unusual and yet so affecting that you wont be able to stop thinking about it after the fact.
Annette is easily one of the most original films of 2021 and it is definitely worth a viewing.
FINAL SAY: We love each other so much.
4 Chilli Peppers
ANOTHER ROUND
Release Date: 2020
Rating: M
Running Time: 117 mins
A Danish film originally entitled Druk or "binge drinking" that was directed by Thomas Vinterberg and premiered at the Toronto Film Festival. Another Round went on to great acclaim; winning the Best International Feature Film at the 93rd Academy Awards and then two BAFTA's in 2021.
Another Round cleverly uses a mixture of dark humour and drama to address sensitive topics like alcoholism, mid-life crisis and pressure in the workplace to create a thought provoking and affecting dialogue.
Four teachers undertake an experiment to test the Finn Skårderud theory that human's are born with a blood alcohol content (BAC) that is 0.05 deficient. By imbibing just enough alcohol to maintain a 0.05 BAC reading, as long as they don't drink after 8pm and abstain altogether on the weekends, the four friends make a pact to see how this experiment will affect their lives.
As you would imagine, getting partially drunk at work on the daily is challenging, especially when you are a teacher and the results are somewhat amusing but also quite disturbing.
Mads Mikkelsen delivers another solid performance in the lead role and he is very well supported by the Thomas Bo Larsen, Lars Ranthe and Magnus Millang as the drunken brotherhood. This film says a lot about our social attitudes towards drinking, our tolerance and acceptance of it as a readily available and social stimulant and just how easily excessive drinking can destroy lives and relationships. Another Round is truly food for thought and it really made me reassess the way that I approach alcohol in my everyday life.
FINAL SAY: We're not alcoholics. We decide when we want to drink. An alcoholic can't help himself.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2020
Rating: M
Running Time: 117 mins
A Danish film originally entitled Druk or "binge drinking" that was directed by Thomas Vinterberg and premiered at the Toronto Film Festival. Another Round went on to great acclaim; winning the Best International Feature Film at the 93rd Academy Awards and then two BAFTA's in 2021.
Another Round cleverly uses a mixture of dark humour and drama to address sensitive topics like alcoholism, mid-life crisis and pressure in the workplace to create a thought provoking and affecting dialogue.
Four teachers undertake an experiment to test the Finn Skårderud theory that human's are born with a blood alcohol content (BAC) that is 0.05 deficient. By imbibing just enough alcohol to maintain a 0.05 BAC reading, as long as they don't drink after 8pm and abstain altogether on the weekends, the four friends make a pact to see how this experiment will affect their lives.
As you would imagine, getting partially drunk at work on the daily is challenging, especially when you are a teacher and the results are somewhat amusing but also quite disturbing.
Mads Mikkelsen delivers another solid performance in the lead role and he is very well supported by the Thomas Bo Larsen, Lars Ranthe and Magnus Millang as the drunken brotherhood. This film says a lot about our social attitudes towards drinking, our tolerance and acceptance of it as a readily available and social stimulant and just how easily excessive drinking can destroy lives and relationships. Another Round is truly food for thought and it really made me reassess the way that I approach alcohol in my everyday life.
FINAL SAY: We're not alcoholics. We decide when we want to drink. An alcoholic can't help himself.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE PLATFORM
Release Date: 2020
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 94 mins
The Platform is a Spanish science fiction thriller, directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia that was released on Netflix during the early stages of the COVID -19 outbreak of 2020, which due to isolation restrictions gave it a widespread audience and surging popularity.
Set in a high rise tower style prison, the residents are periodically rotated between an unknown amount of floors. From the top level, food is send down daily on a platform which is overflowing with all kinds of delicacies. As the platform descends, the food gets more and more scarce and eventually on the lowest levels there is nothing left at all, which forces the prisoners to resort to extreme measures to survive.
The film itself is uncomfortably intriguing with its many twists and turns, and although they have added some crowd pleasing low comedy to alleviate the tone slightly, at the heart of it The Platform is a deeply sadistic film that speaks loudly to the greed and opportunistic behaviours of mankind with violent and upsetting outcomes.
FINAL SAY: How many levels are there?
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2020
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 94 mins
The Platform is a Spanish science fiction thriller, directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia that was released on Netflix during the early stages of the COVID -19 outbreak of 2020, which due to isolation restrictions gave it a widespread audience and surging popularity.
Set in a high rise tower style prison, the residents are periodically rotated between an unknown amount of floors. From the top level, food is send down daily on a platform which is overflowing with all kinds of delicacies. As the platform descends, the food gets more and more scarce and eventually on the lowest levels there is nothing left at all, which forces the prisoners to resort to extreme measures to survive.
The film itself is uncomfortably intriguing with its many twists and turns, and although they have added some crowd pleasing low comedy to alleviate the tone slightly, at the heart of it The Platform is a deeply sadistic film that speaks loudly to the greed and opportunistic behaviours of mankind with violent and upsetting outcomes.
FINAL SAY: How many levels are there?
3 Chilli Peppers
BLACK IS KING
Release Date: 2020
Rating: M
Running Time: 85 mins
There is no disputing that Beyoncé is not everyone's cup of tea, but after Lemonade I was more than willing to have a look at Black is King and I was definitely not disappointed.
A musical and visual album that was directed, written and produced by Beyoncé herself, the film serves as a visual companion to the 2019 album The Lion King: The Gift, a tie-in album curated by Beyoncé for The Lion King.
The story revolves around a young African prince that is exiled from his kingdom after his father passes away. When he becomes a man, he embarks on a journey to discover his true identity and purpose. He is protected and guided by his ancestors and eventually reclaims his rightful place upon the throne again.
The music, dances, costumes, themes and sets are all simply divine and the overall experience is a complete transcendence into sight, sound and spirit. There is a lot to love here, and if like me you are a fan of artistic expression and creativity, you will love this as well.
FINAL SAY: Find Your Way
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2020
Rating: M
Running Time: 85 mins
There is no disputing that Beyoncé is not everyone's cup of tea, but after Lemonade I was more than willing to have a look at Black is King and I was definitely not disappointed.
A musical and visual album that was directed, written and produced by Beyoncé herself, the film serves as a visual companion to the 2019 album The Lion King: The Gift, a tie-in album curated by Beyoncé for The Lion King.
The story revolves around a young African prince that is exiled from his kingdom after his father passes away. When he becomes a man, he embarks on a journey to discover his true identity and purpose. He is protected and guided by his ancestors and eventually reclaims his rightful place upon the throne again.
The music, dances, costumes, themes and sets are all simply divine and the overall experience is a complete transcendence into sight, sound and spirit. There is a lot to love here, and if like me you are a fan of artistic expression and creativity, you will love this as well.
FINAL SAY: Find Your Way
4 Chilli Peppers
THE CALL
Release Date: 2020
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 112 mins
A South Korean psychological thriller that has more twists and turns than a race car track. Directed by Lee Chung-hyun and based on the British and Puerto Rican film The Caller; The Call was released on Netflix streaming globally in November 2020 and may have been overlooked due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Two women who are inhabiting the same house in different times (the past and the present) find their lives overlapping when a phone call connects them. Realising that there is potential to alter outcomes in the future, the women hatch a plan but soon discover that they have set the ball rolling on other occurrences with more dire consequences.
The storyline here is actually pretty damn clever, I am surprised that this film didn't gain more attention to be honest. The scenes that occur after the credits start to roll are pretty silly and actually detract from the film's impact overall, so don't feel compelled to watch them , in fact avoid them if you can! Other than that, The Call is a solid thriller and a worthy watch.
FINAL SAY: You're going to die tonight.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2020
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 112 mins
A South Korean psychological thriller that has more twists and turns than a race car track. Directed by Lee Chung-hyun and based on the British and Puerto Rican film The Caller; The Call was released on Netflix streaming globally in November 2020 and may have been overlooked due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Two women who are inhabiting the same house in different times (the past and the present) find their lives overlapping when a phone call connects them. Realising that there is potential to alter outcomes in the future, the women hatch a plan but soon discover that they have set the ball rolling on other occurrences with more dire consequences.
The storyline here is actually pretty damn clever, I am surprised that this film didn't gain more attention to be honest. The scenes that occur after the credits start to roll are pretty silly and actually detract from the film's impact overall, so don't feel compelled to watch them , in fact avoid them if you can! Other than that, The Call is a solid thriller and a worthy watch.
FINAL SAY: You're going to die tonight.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE LIGHTHOUSE
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 110 mins
A psychological thriller, directed and produced by Robert Eggers, who co-wrote the screenplay with his brother Max Eggers. Shot in black and white and delivered in a nearly square 1.19:1 ratio, The Lighthouse is a deeply affecting and sinister watch that blurs the lines between horror, art house, mythology and edge of your seat thriller.
Ephraim Winslow (Robert Pattinson) undertakes a four week contract as a lighthouse keeper on an isolated island off the coast of New England under the guidance of veteran 'wickie' Thomas Wake (Willem Dafoe). As the days stretch into weeks the men succumb to the madness of isolation, the intolerably cruel conditions and the often erratic and irritable behaviours of one another.
Pattinson and Dafoe are absolutely brilliant here, delivering Oscar worthy, powerhouse performances and going to incredible lengths to create something that is so unforgettably dark and unsettling that I found myself thinking about it for days after.
Steeped in superstition and folklore, the story takes some unexpected turns as it delves into some seriously controversial territory like loneliness, alcoholism, toxic masculinity and hidden identity. The Lighthouse is undoubtedly the most unforgettable movie of the year and will definitely be shocking audiences for many years to come.
FINAL SAY: Let Neptune strike ye Dead, Winslow!
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 110 mins
A psychological thriller, directed and produced by Robert Eggers, who co-wrote the screenplay with his brother Max Eggers. Shot in black and white and delivered in a nearly square 1.19:1 ratio, The Lighthouse is a deeply affecting and sinister watch that blurs the lines between horror, art house, mythology and edge of your seat thriller.
Ephraim Winslow (Robert Pattinson) undertakes a four week contract as a lighthouse keeper on an isolated island off the coast of New England under the guidance of veteran 'wickie' Thomas Wake (Willem Dafoe). As the days stretch into weeks the men succumb to the madness of isolation, the intolerably cruel conditions and the often erratic and irritable behaviours of one another.
Pattinson and Dafoe are absolutely brilliant here, delivering Oscar worthy, powerhouse performances and going to incredible lengths to create something that is so unforgettably dark and unsettling that I found myself thinking about it for days after.
Steeped in superstition and folklore, the story takes some unexpected turns as it delves into some seriously controversial territory like loneliness, alcoholism, toxic masculinity and hidden identity. The Lighthouse is undoubtedly the most unforgettable movie of the year and will definitely be shocking audiences for many years to come.
FINAL SAY: Let Neptune strike ye Dead, Winslow!
4 Chilli Peppers
ROCKETMAN
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 121 mins
A musical biography film directed by Dexter Fletcher and written by Lee Hall and based on the life of singer/ songwriter Elton John. Rocketman received huge critical acclaim and a number of awards largely due to Taron Egerton's incredible portrayal of John, but also for the unique and creative use of music, costume design and engaging choreography.
At an addiction rehabilitation session, Elton John recounts the events of his life from childhood to present day. Through a series of musical numbers Elton recalls his troubling childhood, his rise to fame, his struggles with addiction, his relationship to best friend Bernie Taupin and his often traumatic love life.
Taron Egerton is dynamite as Elton John, delivering a powerhouse and mesmerising performance. The entire film feels fresh and original in structure and delivery, which is why I felt like it was more art house than drama, but to be clear there is plenty of drama going on here. The music is hypnotically good and it was almost impossible to not sing along with some of the numbers as I watched.
Like all good musical tributes you're left with a sense of just how much great music Elton John has delivered to the world. However I also found this film quite sad because it so clearly highlights how no amount of fame or money can ever fill some very deep holes that some performers seem to harbour inside of themselves, and Elton John's story certain demonstrates that.
FINAL SAY: You've got to kill the person you were born to be in order to become the person you want to be.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 121 mins
A musical biography film directed by Dexter Fletcher and written by Lee Hall and based on the life of singer/ songwriter Elton John. Rocketman received huge critical acclaim and a number of awards largely due to Taron Egerton's incredible portrayal of John, but also for the unique and creative use of music, costume design and engaging choreography.
At an addiction rehabilitation session, Elton John recounts the events of his life from childhood to present day. Through a series of musical numbers Elton recalls his troubling childhood, his rise to fame, his struggles with addiction, his relationship to best friend Bernie Taupin and his often traumatic love life.
Taron Egerton is dynamite as Elton John, delivering a powerhouse and mesmerising performance. The entire film feels fresh and original in structure and delivery, which is why I felt like it was more art house than drama, but to be clear there is plenty of drama going on here. The music is hypnotically good and it was almost impossible to not sing along with some of the numbers as I watched.
Like all good musical tributes you're left with a sense of just how much great music Elton John has delivered to the world. However I also found this film quite sad because it so clearly highlights how no amount of fame or money can ever fill some very deep holes that some performers seem to harbour inside of themselves, and Elton John's story certain demonstrates that.
FINAL SAY: You've got to kill the person you were born to be in order to become the person you want to be.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
PARASITE
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 132 mins
A South Korean black comedy thriller, written and directed by Bong Joon-ho, Parasite is destined to become a modern cult classic with its unique and original style and engrossing storyline.
It swept the field at the 92nd Academy Awards, winning four Oscars and becoming the first film to ever win both the Best Picture and Best International Feature Film cateogories. At the 77th Golden Globe Awards Parasite also won the Best Foreign Language Film award and became the first non-English film to ever win the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. Talk about buzz! This film had everyone talking and soon become the must see film of 2019.
In South Korea, the dirt poor Kim family are struggling to hold down low-paying temporary jobs and make ends meet. When their son begins tutoring for an extremely wealthy family, the Kim family seizes an opportunity to exploit them by integrating themselves into their lives through insidious and underhanded means.
What a watch! Parasite is absolutely riveting from start to end with its devious entanglements and dreadfully behaved characters. The cast are flawless here, delivering a tight, sharp and sophisticated script to perfection. Special mention must go to Kang-ho Song for his stellar depiction of Kim Ki-taek, the Kim family patriarch that has taught his family how to survive in the most unscrupulous of ways.
However, that being said, it is not just the storyline and cast that carry this film to great heights, because every detail of the cinematography here is stunning as well; at times the imagery was so strong that it literally took my breath away. Parasite is one of the best foreign language films that I have ever seen, and it's definitely a movie that no-one should miss.
FINAL SAY: They are nice because they are rich.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 132 mins
A South Korean black comedy thriller, written and directed by Bong Joon-ho, Parasite is destined to become a modern cult classic with its unique and original style and engrossing storyline.
It swept the field at the 92nd Academy Awards, winning four Oscars and becoming the first film to ever win both the Best Picture and Best International Feature Film cateogories. At the 77th Golden Globe Awards Parasite also won the Best Foreign Language Film award and became the first non-English film to ever win the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. Talk about buzz! This film had everyone talking and soon become the must see film of 2019.
In South Korea, the dirt poor Kim family are struggling to hold down low-paying temporary jobs and make ends meet. When their son begins tutoring for an extremely wealthy family, the Kim family seizes an opportunity to exploit them by integrating themselves into their lives through insidious and underhanded means.
What a watch! Parasite is absolutely riveting from start to end with its devious entanglements and dreadfully behaved characters. The cast are flawless here, delivering a tight, sharp and sophisticated script to perfection. Special mention must go to Kang-ho Song for his stellar depiction of Kim Ki-taek, the Kim family patriarch that has taught his family how to survive in the most unscrupulous of ways.
However, that being said, it is not just the storyline and cast that carry this film to great heights, because every detail of the cinematography here is stunning as well; at times the imagery was so strong that it literally took my breath away. Parasite is one of the best foreign language films that I have ever seen, and it's definitely a movie that no-one should miss.
FINAL SAY: They are nice because they are rich.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
DEERSKIN
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 77 mins
A French black comedy written and directed by Quentin Dupieux that is both amusing and disturbing in equal measure.
George purchases a second-hand deerskin jacket which he instantly becomes deeply obsessed with, believing that it desires to be the only jacket in the world. He instills himself into a small village, charading as a film maker and sets about making his jacket's dream a reality.
Jean Dujardin is the real strength behind this storyline, delivering George's creepy energy with a deranged believability at every turn; making his performance utterly riveting. He is also strongly supported by Adele Haenel who portrays a waitress/ film editor wannabe. The entire film is utterly implausible and yet exceptionally unique and quirky in every way. The humour may not be to everyone's taste, but at only 77mins running time, Deerskin is a worthy watch.
FINAL SAY: Killer style.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 77 mins
A French black comedy written and directed by Quentin Dupieux that is both amusing and disturbing in equal measure.
George purchases a second-hand deerskin jacket which he instantly becomes deeply obsessed with, believing that it desires to be the only jacket in the world. He instills himself into a small village, charading as a film maker and sets about making his jacket's dream a reality.
Jean Dujardin is the real strength behind this storyline, delivering George's creepy energy with a deranged believability at every turn; making his performance utterly riveting. He is also strongly supported by Adele Haenel who portrays a waitress/ film editor wannabe. The entire film is utterly implausible and yet exceptionally unique and quirky in every way. The humour may not be to everyone's taste, but at only 77mins running time, Deerskin is a worthy watch.
FINAL SAY: Killer style.
3 Chilli Peppers
SHADOW
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 116 mins
A Chinese period drama directed by Zhang Yimou, better known for his work on House of Flying Daggers and Hero. This latest offering is a visual feast for the eyes that was inspired by Chinese ink brush paintings and the tai chi 'yin-yang' symbol. With a primarily gray scale and charcoal palette, the moody, inky scenes are only broken by small bursts of skin tone, blood splatter and candle flame; making it a truly gorgeous film to behold.
An injured and cunning military commander creates a 'shadow' or lookalike of himself that will offer him a chance to exact his revenge upon his old rivals and steal the throne from the current young and incompetent king.
Clever, engaging, fast paced and extremely pleasant to watch, Shadow packs a punch with its twists and turns and incredibly beautiful fighting sequences. This is definitely one of the best wuxia movies to have been made in a long while that visually stands in complete contrast to Yimou's previously brightly coloured offerings. It's an unmissable slice of Chinese cinema.
FINAL SAY: Some things don't have a right or wrong, what's done is done.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 116 mins
A Chinese period drama directed by Zhang Yimou, better known for his work on House of Flying Daggers and Hero. This latest offering is a visual feast for the eyes that was inspired by Chinese ink brush paintings and the tai chi 'yin-yang' symbol. With a primarily gray scale and charcoal palette, the moody, inky scenes are only broken by small bursts of skin tone, blood splatter and candle flame; making it a truly gorgeous film to behold.
An injured and cunning military commander creates a 'shadow' or lookalike of himself that will offer him a chance to exact his revenge upon his old rivals and steal the throne from the current young and incompetent king.
Clever, engaging, fast paced and extremely pleasant to watch, Shadow packs a punch with its twists and turns and incredibly beautiful fighting sequences. This is definitely one of the best wuxia movies to have been made in a long while that visually stands in complete contrast to Yimou's previously brightly coloured offerings. It's an unmissable slice of Chinese cinema.
FINAL SAY: Some things don't have a right or wrong, what's done is done.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
SORRY TO BOTHER YOU
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 112 mins
An art house fantasy movie that is pretty much in a league of its own, with its jet black comedy style and science fiction alternate reality setting, Sorry to Bother You is destined to become a cult classic in years to come. Written and directed by Boots Riley in his directorial debut, this film is completely unique, fresh and original in every way.
Cassius Green is struggling to get on his feet when he lands a job as a telemarketer for RegalView. After successfully mastering his 'white voice' he gains a promotion and becomes an elite Power Caller. Suddenly Cassius is flush with funds but the higher up the corporate ladder that he climbs, the faster he begins to understand how corrupt and immoral his line of business really is.
It's perfect blend of sharp satire, political hypocrisy and social exploitation makes this film truly unforgettable, I was literally still thinking about it for days after I saw it. The casting is perfect; Lakeith Stanfield is genuinely excellent as Cassius Green, with Tessa Thompson, Steven Yeun, Armie Hammer and Danny Glover providing noteworthy support throughout. If you are looking for something different and a little left of centre then Sorry to Bother You will not disappoint.
FINAL SAY: If you beautiful perversions don't shut the fuck up, I'll turn you into glue!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 112 mins
An art house fantasy movie that is pretty much in a league of its own, with its jet black comedy style and science fiction alternate reality setting, Sorry to Bother You is destined to become a cult classic in years to come. Written and directed by Boots Riley in his directorial debut, this film is completely unique, fresh and original in every way.
Cassius Green is struggling to get on his feet when he lands a job as a telemarketer for RegalView. After successfully mastering his 'white voice' he gains a promotion and becomes an elite Power Caller. Suddenly Cassius is flush with funds but the higher up the corporate ladder that he climbs, the faster he begins to understand how corrupt and immoral his line of business really is.
It's perfect blend of sharp satire, political hypocrisy and social exploitation makes this film truly unforgettable, I was literally still thinking about it for days after I saw it. The casting is perfect; Lakeith Stanfield is genuinely excellent as Cassius Green, with Tessa Thompson, Steven Yeun, Armie Hammer and Danny Glover providing noteworthy support throughout. If you are looking for something different and a little left of centre then Sorry to Bother You will not disappoint.
FINAL SAY: If you beautiful perversions don't shut the fuck up, I'll turn you into glue!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
ROMA
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 135 mins
A semi-biographical drama that was written, co-produced, co-edited and directed by Alfonso Cuarón who based the film on his personal experiences growing up in Mexico City. ROMA won the coveted Golden Lion award at the 75th Venice International Film Festival where it had its world premiere, and has since received unanimous praise, critical acclaim and many other award nominations.
Set during the 1970's, we follow the daily experiences of Cleo, a young Mexican maid and nanny. Cleo works for Sofia and Antonio (a couple whose relationship is clearly in peril) in their home in Colonia Roma, a suburb of Mexico City. She loving cares their four children and Sofia's elderly mother; sharing their lives, their triumphs and their hardships as together they navigate the turbulent and politically charged environment that they are living in.
This film is so beautiful to watch, shot in moody black and white and full of lingering contemplative scenes, this is a film for true movie lovers and I adored it. Everything feels completely genuine and although this is just a movie about everyday people doing everyday things, it is absolutely engrossing and deeply affecting in every way.
Yalitza Aparicio is wonderful as Cleo and she is richly supported by a strong and capable cast here. I expect to hear a lot of Oscar and Golden Globe Award buzz around this film, and every bit of it would be deserved. This would be one of my favourite movies of the year and it should not be missed!
FINAL SAY: We are alone. No matter what they tell you, we women are always alone.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 135 mins
A semi-biographical drama that was written, co-produced, co-edited and directed by Alfonso Cuarón who based the film on his personal experiences growing up in Mexico City. ROMA won the coveted Golden Lion award at the 75th Venice International Film Festival where it had its world premiere, and has since received unanimous praise, critical acclaim and many other award nominations.
Set during the 1970's, we follow the daily experiences of Cleo, a young Mexican maid and nanny. Cleo works for Sofia and Antonio (a couple whose relationship is clearly in peril) in their home in Colonia Roma, a suburb of Mexico City. She loving cares their four children and Sofia's elderly mother; sharing their lives, their triumphs and their hardships as together they navigate the turbulent and politically charged environment that they are living in.
This film is so beautiful to watch, shot in moody black and white and full of lingering contemplative scenes, this is a film for true movie lovers and I adored it. Everything feels completely genuine and although this is just a movie about everyday people doing everyday things, it is absolutely engrossing and deeply affecting in every way.
Yalitza Aparicio is wonderful as Cleo and she is richly supported by a strong and capable cast here. I expect to hear a lot of Oscar and Golden Globe Award buzz around this film, and every bit of it would be deserved. This would be one of my favourite movies of the year and it should not be missed!
FINAL SAY: We are alone. No matter what they tell you, we women are always alone.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
THE BALLAD OF BUSTER SCRUGGS
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 133 mins
You can always rely on Joel and Ethan Coen to deliver something fresh, fun and unique and The Ballad of Buster Scruggs is certainly no exception. With its striking cinematography, rich characters, gorgeous landscapes and smart, engaging dialogue, this movie delivers on so many levels. After premiering at the 75th Venice International Film festival where it won the Golden Osella Award for Best Screenplay, it was released on Netflix after a limited theatrical run.
In six short stories, each in a different setting and based on the tales of the American Frontier; we are introduced to a bevy of colourful characters and their often 'hard luck' trials. The movie begins with the short tale of Buster Scruggs, the singing cowboy, and from there we are taken on a journey to every corner of the Old West in a series of interesting, amusing and unusual stories that include a crusty old gold prospector, a travelling sideshow, a gunslinger, some native American Indians, a couple of lonely settlers and a group of stagecoach travelers.
The cast is a literal who's who of Hollywood with James Franco, Liam Neeson, Zoe Kazan, Tom Waits, Brendan Gleeson and Tim Blake Nelson taking up significant leads, and everyone is delivering perfectly. This is smart and sophisticated storytelling that shouldn't be missed, especially if you love Westerns as much as I do.
FINAL SAY: Sir, it seems that you're a no better judge of human beings than you are a specimen of one.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 133 mins
You can always rely on Joel and Ethan Coen to deliver something fresh, fun and unique and The Ballad of Buster Scruggs is certainly no exception. With its striking cinematography, rich characters, gorgeous landscapes and smart, engaging dialogue, this movie delivers on so many levels. After premiering at the 75th Venice International Film festival where it won the Golden Osella Award for Best Screenplay, it was released on Netflix after a limited theatrical run.
In six short stories, each in a different setting and based on the tales of the American Frontier; we are introduced to a bevy of colourful characters and their often 'hard luck' trials. The movie begins with the short tale of Buster Scruggs, the singing cowboy, and from there we are taken on a journey to every corner of the Old West in a series of interesting, amusing and unusual stories that include a crusty old gold prospector, a travelling sideshow, a gunslinger, some native American Indians, a couple of lonely settlers and a group of stagecoach travelers.
The cast is a literal who's who of Hollywood with James Franco, Liam Neeson, Zoe Kazan, Tom Waits, Brendan Gleeson and Tim Blake Nelson taking up significant leads, and everyone is delivering perfectly. This is smart and sophisticated storytelling that shouldn't be missed, especially if you love Westerns as much as I do.
FINAL SAY: Sir, it seems that you're a no better judge of human beings than you are a specimen of one.
4 Chilli Peppers
DON'T WORRY, HE WON'T GET FAR ON FOOT
Release Date: 2018
Rating: M
Running Time: 114 mins
An art house, comedy-drama directed by Gus Van Sant and based upon the memoir of the same name by John Callahan; Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far On Foot was an unexpectedly inspiring and enjoyable watch. This film left me with a delightfully warm and life affirming feeling, and it also delivered some of the strongest performances of the year as well.
Alcoholic cartoonist John Callahan (Joaquin Phoenix) becomes a paraplegic after a drunken car accident. Now Callahan has to try and discover new meaning and purpose in his life as an artist, an alcoholic and a paraplegic.
It's the genuine and heartfelt way that this film is delivered that sticks with you. The cast are so good and so believable and the onscreen relationships feel plausible and committed. Joaquin Phoenix is a powerhouse here and he is extremely well supported by Jonah Hill, Rooney Mara and Jack Black. In fact Jonah Hill's performance is so amazing that he virtually eclipses Phoenix whenever they are onscreen together, that man can seriously deliver tenderness and compassion!
I just loved this film. I loved the hopefulness, the humanity and the life affirming conversations and considerations that occurred throughout. It's a delightful story that is definitely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: It is hard teaching people faith.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: M
Running Time: 114 mins
An art house, comedy-drama directed by Gus Van Sant and based upon the memoir of the same name by John Callahan; Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far On Foot was an unexpectedly inspiring and enjoyable watch. This film left me with a delightfully warm and life affirming feeling, and it also delivered some of the strongest performances of the year as well.
Alcoholic cartoonist John Callahan (Joaquin Phoenix) becomes a paraplegic after a drunken car accident. Now Callahan has to try and discover new meaning and purpose in his life as an artist, an alcoholic and a paraplegic.
It's the genuine and heartfelt way that this film is delivered that sticks with you. The cast are so good and so believable and the onscreen relationships feel plausible and committed. Joaquin Phoenix is a powerhouse here and he is extremely well supported by Jonah Hill, Rooney Mara and Jack Black. In fact Jonah Hill's performance is so amazing that he virtually eclipses Phoenix whenever they are onscreen together, that man can seriously deliver tenderness and compassion!
I just loved this film. I loved the hopefulness, the humanity and the life affirming conversations and considerations that occurred throughout. It's a delightful story that is definitely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: It is hard teaching people faith.
4 Chilli Peppers
NOTHING TO HIDE
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 90 mins
A French comedy/ drama directed by Fred Cavaye and adapted from the 2016 Italian film Perfect Strangers by Paolo Genovese. I myself have not seen the original, but apparently they are practically identical so if you have already seen Perfect Strangers you might want to give Nothing to Hide a miss.
Several friends at a dinner party decide to play a revealing game in the name of transparency. Everyone places their mobile phones on the table face up and agree to make all texts, messages and calls received completely public in an attempt to prove that they have nothing to hide from each other.
As the secrets and motivations of the characters start to spill out, the story gets more convoluted and a lot more interesting as well, and although this is hardly riveting or very believable viewing, it is definitely engaging and the cast to do a tremendously good job of playing out their roles with conviction and sincerity.
At only 90 minutes in length, Nothing to Hide offers is a short and sweet 'fly on the wall' romp into the lives of others that has an unusual and unforeseeable twist right at the end, that I am still not sure if I really liked to be honest.
FINAL SAY: If I show you mine, you show me yours.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 90 mins
A French comedy/ drama directed by Fred Cavaye and adapted from the 2016 Italian film Perfect Strangers by Paolo Genovese. I myself have not seen the original, but apparently they are practically identical so if you have already seen Perfect Strangers you might want to give Nothing to Hide a miss.
Several friends at a dinner party decide to play a revealing game in the name of transparency. Everyone places their mobile phones on the table face up and agree to make all texts, messages and calls received completely public in an attempt to prove that they have nothing to hide from each other.
As the secrets and motivations of the characters start to spill out, the story gets more convoluted and a lot more interesting as well, and although this is hardly riveting or very believable viewing, it is definitely engaging and the cast to do a tremendously good job of playing out their roles with conviction and sincerity.
At only 90 minutes in length, Nothing to Hide offers is a short and sweet 'fly on the wall' romp into the lives of others that has an unusual and unforeseeable twist right at the end, that I am still not sure if I really liked to be honest.
FINAL SAY: If I show you mine, you show me yours.
3 Chilli Peppers
BURNING
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 158 mins
A Korean psychological thriller co-written, co- produced and directed by Lee Chang-dong. Based on the short story "Barn Burning" by Haruki Murakami, this movie subtly twists and turns around itself, winding faster and faster all the way to the end of the film, delivering one of the most riveting and ambiguous narratives that I have seen in very long time.
Jong-su falls for his childhood friend Hae-mi and the two start an intimate relationship. Hae-mi leaves for Africa and asks Jong-su to care for her mysteriously elusive cat in her absence. When Hae-mi returns she has a new man in her life, a wealthy and unusual character called Ben.
If you are looking for some contemplation, then look no further because Burning provides ponderous interludes in bucket loads. The cast are amazing, with Ah-In Yoo and Jong-seo Jun delivering equally strong and captivating performances, however it was Steven Yeun's eerie portrayal of Ben that had me most intrigued.
You may have some unfulfilled questions when the film reaches its end, depending on how you interpret the material; or like me, you might feel like it all came together perfectly. And I think that is actually the biggest charm of this film - its just so open to interpretation.
FINAL SAY: They are called the great hungry.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 158 mins
A Korean psychological thriller co-written, co- produced and directed by Lee Chang-dong. Based on the short story "Barn Burning" by Haruki Murakami, this movie subtly twists and turns around itself, winding faster and faster all the way to the end of the film, delivering one of the most riveting and ambiguous narratives that I have seen in very long time.
Jong-su falls for his childhood friend Hae-mi and the two start an intimate relationship. Hae-mi leaves for Africa and asks Jong-su to care for her mysteriously elusive cat in her absence. When Hae-mi returns she has a new man in her life, a wealthy and unusual character called Ben.
If you are looking for some contemplation, then look no further because Burning provides ponderous interludes in bucket loads. The cast are amazing, with Ah-In Yoo and Jong-seo Jun delivering equally strong and captivating performances, however it was Steven Yeun's eerie portrayal of Ben that had me most intrigued.
You may have some unfulfilled questions when the film reaches its end, depending on how you interpret the material; or like me, you might feel like it all came together perfectly. And I think that is actually the biggest charm of this film - its just so open to interpretation.
FINAL SAY: They are called the great hungry.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE GREATEST SHOWMAN
Release Date: 2017
Rating: PG
Running Time: 105 mins
An old school musical that feels so much like a stage production that you will need to fight the urge to applaud after some of the musical numbers. Clearly inspired by previous musical extravaganzas like Moulin Rouge, director Michael Gracey exchanges the gothic and steampunk appeal of Luhrmann for something that is brighter, more polished and definitely more appealing to a wider audience, especially lovers of pop music, through The Greatest Showman.
From humble beginnings, ambitious showman P.T. Barnum (Hugh Jackman) manages to find fame and fortune by developing his own unique style of entertainment that showcases the talents of freaks and outcasts.
I had a really good time watching this movie, it is undeniably entertaining and exceptionally well presented. Like most musicals, the storyline is thin, extremely thin in this case and also historically inaccurate with it's warm, fuzzy depiction of Barnum's freak show; however, if you can put that aside and just allow yourself to get lost in the glitz and glamour of it all then you should also enjoy the experience. There's a bit of everything going on, and loads of romance for those of you that are looking for a little love action, and aside of its historical flaws, the message being sent here about acceptance and inclusion is delivered well.
Hugh Jackman is dazzling as Barnum, Zac Efron shows why he can do musicals well as Phillip Carlyle, Rebecca Ferguson, Michelle Williams and Zendaya demonstrate new levels of onscreen beauty and Keala Settle who plays Lettie - The Bearded Lady who absolutely steals the show with her incredible performance and singing prowess - shivers people - literally shivers for me.
FINAL SAY: No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: PG
Running Time: 105 mins
An old school musical that feels so much like a stage production that you will need to fight the urge to applaud after some of the musical numbers. Clearly inspired by previous musical extravaganzas like Moulin Rouge, director Michael Gracey exchanges the gothic and steampunk appeal of Luhrmann for something that is brighter, more polished and definitely more appealing to a wider audience, especially lovers of pop music, through The Greatest Showman.
From humble beginnings, ambitious showman P.T. Barnum (Hugh Jackman) manages to find fame and fortune by developing his own unique style of entertainment that showcases the talents of freaks and outcasts.
I had a really good time watching this movie, it is undeniably entertaining and exceptionally well presented. Like most musicals, the storyline is thin, extremely thin in this case and also historically inaccurate with it's warm, fuzzy depiction of Barnum's freak show; however, if you can put that aside and just allow yourself to get lost in the glitz and glamour of it all then you should also enjoy the experience. There's a bit of everything going on, and loads of romance for those of you that are looking for a little love action, and aside of its historical flaws, the message being sent here about acceptance and inclusion is delivered well.
Hugh Jackman is dazzling as Barnum, Zac Efron shows why he can do musicals well as Phillip Carlyle, Rebecca Ferguson, Michelle Williams and Zendaya demonstrate new levels of onscreen beauty and Keala Settle who plays Lettie - The Bearded Lady who absolutely steals the show with her incredible performance and singing prowess - shivers people - literally shivers for me.
FINAL SAY: No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE KILLING OF A SACRED DEER
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 125 mins
A psychological thriller, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and based on the ancient Greek play Iphigenia at Aulis by Euripides. Like all Lanthimos movies, you never walk away without feeling slightly scathed by what you have just seen, and The Killing of a Sacred Deer is certainly no exception to that rule.
Steven Murphy is a successful heart surgeon that appears to have it all. However, when a former patient's son, that he has taken under his wing, becomes malicious and vengeful towards his family, things take a very sudden turn for the worse.
The storyline just gets curiouser and curiouser as it progresses and a lot of the behaviours are odd and deeply disturbing to say the least, but that is what makes this film so compellingly different from other thrillers. In a weird kind of way, this movie is also extremely hypnotic, and it is just overflowing with metaphors and unanswered questions.
Nicole Kidman, Colin Farrell and Barry Keoghan are disturbingly good here, and their solid performances are definitely one of the film's major strengths.
FINAL SAY: If you dig a hole in the yard, better make it a big one.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 125 mins
A psychological thriller, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and based on the ancient Greek play Iphigenia at Aulis by Euripides. Like all Lanthimos movies, you never walk away without feeling slightly scathed by what you have just seen, and The Killing of a Sacred Deer is certainly no exception to that rule.
Steven Murphy is a successful heart surgeon that appears to have it all. However, when a former patient's son, that he has taken under his wing, becomes malicious and vengeful towards his family, things take a very sudden turn for the worse.
The storyline just gets curiouser and curiouser as it progresses and a lot of the behaviours are odd and deeply disturbing to say the least, but that is what makes this film so compellingly different from other thrillers. In a weird kind of way, this movie is also extremely hypnotic, and it is just overflowing with metaphors and unanswered questions.
Nicole Kidman, Colin Farrell and Barry Keoghan are disturbingly good here, and their solid performances are definitely one of the film's major strengths.
FINAL SAY: If you dig a hole in the yard, better make it a big one.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
PATTI CAKE$
Release Date: 2017
Rating: M
Running Time: 109 mins
A musical drama directed by Geremy Jasper that screened in the US Dramatic Competition section of the 2017 Sundance Film Festival. Patti Cake$ throws some new light onto what is essentially an underdog storyline, which is made all the more enjoyable through the rap music that brings them all together.
Patricia Dombrowski is an overweight white woman from New Jersey who is seeking fame and fortune in the rap industry. She is both torn down and raised higher by the various relationships that she has in her life and must rely on her own tenacity to push passed her haters.
It is the group of downtrodden misfits and their passion for rap music that raises this movie out of the realms of mediocrity. Danielle Macdonald is a tour de force as Patti and brings so much determination and gusto to her character that you just can't stop rooting for the underdog and getting caught up in all of the hopeful dreaming.
Patti Cake$ is certainly not a life changer, but it is an enjoyable, warm and inspiring watch.
FINAL SAY: Act your age. Act your race.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: M
Running Time: 109 mins
A musical drama directed by Geremy Jasper that screened in the US Dramatic Competition section of the 2017 Sundance Film Festival. Patti Cake$ throws some new light onto what is essentially an underdog storyline, which is made all the more enjoyable through the rap music that brings them all together.
Patricia Dombrowski is an overweight white woman from New Jersey who is seeking fame and fortune in the rap industry. She is both torn down and raised higher by the various relationships that she has in her life and must rely on her own tenacity to push passed her haters.
It is the group of downtrodden misfits and their passion for rap music that raises this movie out of the realms of mediocrity. Danielle Macdonald is a tour de force as Patti and brings so much determination and gusto to her character that you just can't stop rooting for the underdog and getting caught up in all of the hopeful dreaming.
Patti Cake$ is certainly not a life changer, but it is an enjoyable, warm and inspiring watch.
FINAL SAY: Act your age. Act your race.
3 Chilli Peppers
A GHOST STORY
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 87 minutes
No, this movie should not be in the horror section, in fact it would be far more at home on a romance list than a horror list. Thoughtfully directed by David Lowery, this melancholic look at the afterlife seriously touched my heart with its tale of love and loss.
The lives of a young couple are turned upside down when one of them is killed in a car accident. Things become more complicated when the deceased becomes a ghost, a literal one that walks around under a bedsheet. Unfortunately, he is invisible to everyone and becomes eternally stuck; sadly watching on as his beloved struggles and eventually moves on with her life.
Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara deliver perfectly, offering us a realistic and heart-wrenching depiction of bereavement from two perspectives, not easy to pull off under a bedsheet that's for sure.
The cinematography of this film really struck me, it is shot in 4 x 3 aspect with rounded edges, which makes it feel so retro, it's almost like watching a home movie. The visual scenes linger for much longer than you would expect them to, and it always feels, like the characters, that we are also poised in each moment. The entire film actually feels like it is just 'hanging' somewhere, like it is completely lost somewhere in time and space and it just works so well.
Not at all a conventional ghost story, but definitely a must see movie experience that will have you reaching for the tissue box and sitting in quiet contemplation as the credits are rolling. This is truly unforgettable and deeply moving material.
FINAL SAY: They're just things I wanted to remember so that if I ever wanted to go back, there'd be a piece of me there waiting.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 87 minutes
No, this movie should not be in the horror section, in fact it would be far more at home on a romance list than a horror list. Thoughtfully directed by David Lowery, this melancholic look at the afterlife seriously touched my heart with its tale of love and loss.
The lives of a young couple are turned upside down when one of them is killed in a car accident. Things become more complicated when the deceased becomes a ghost, a literal one that walks around under a bedsheet. Unfortunately, he is invisible to everyone and becomes eternally stuck; sadly watching on as his beloved struggles and eventually moves on with her life.
Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara deliver perfectly, offering us a realistic and heart-wrenching depiction of bereavement from two perspectives, not easy to pull off under a bedsheet that's for sure.
The cinematography of this film really struck me, it is shot in 4 x 3 aspect with rounded edges, which makes it feel so retro, it's almost like watching a home movie. The visual scenes linger for much longer than you would expect them to, and it always feels, like the characters, that we are also poised in each moment. The entire film actually feels like it is just 'hanging' somewhere, like it is completely lost somewhere in time and space and it just works so well.
Not at all a conventional ghost story, but definitely a must see movie experience that will have you reaching for the tissue box and sitting in quiet contemplation as the credits are rolling. This is truly unforgettable and deeply moving material.
FINAL SAY: They're just things I wanted to remember so that if I ever wanted to go back, there'd be a piece of me there waiting.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
DAVE MADE A MAZE
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 80 mins
And now for something completely different! If you are looking for a bizarrely inventive movie and a completely, uh, well.... 'in the box' viewing experience, then this movie is for you. Cardboard creations, paper puppets and the most kick arse papercraft labyrinth that you could imagine, all work together to produce what could easily be one of the most original movies of the year.
While his girlfriend is out of town, Dave, a frustrated artist, builds a cardboard maze in their living room. However, the maze is far bigger than it seems from the outside and Dave soon finds himself lost within the walls of his ever-changing cardboard creation. His girlfriend Annie and a few unusual pals attempt a rescue mission to save Dave from the confines of his self made labyrinth and the terrifying minotaur that dwells within.
The storyline and character development is pretty thin on the ground here, but who cares? The creativity of this film deserves three chili peppers on its own. This movie is literally a recycling dream made flesh; all of the cardboard that was used for set design was sourced from apparel factories and recycle dumpsters, where it all ended up again after filming ended. This is an 80 minute art project gone rogue and I loved it!
FINAL SAY: Cardboard forts and paper crafting run amok!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 80 mins
And now for something completely different! If you are looking for a bizarrely inventive movie and a completely, uh, well.... 'in the box' viewing experience, then this movie is for you. Cardboard creations, paper puppets and the most kick arse papercraft labyrinth that you could imagine, all work together to produce what could easily be one of the most original movies of the year.
While his girlfriend is out of town, Dave, a frustrated artist, builds a cardboard maze in their living room. However, the maze is far bigger than it seems from the outside and Dave soon finds himself lost within the walls of his ever-changing cardboard creation. His girlfriend Annie and a few unusual pals attempt a rescue mission to save Dave from the confines of his self made labyrinth and the terrifying minotaur that dwells within.
The storyline and character development is pretty thin on the ground here, but who cares? The creativity of this film deserves three chili peppers on its own. This movie is literally a recycling dream made flesh; all of the cardboard that was used for set design was sourced from apparel factories and recycle dumpsters, where it all ended up again after filming ended. This is an 80 minute art project gone rogue and I loved it!
FINAL SAY: Cardboard forts and paper crafting run amok!
3 Chilli Peppers
THE BEGUILED
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 94 mins
Sofia Coppola delivers the ultimate American Southern gothic with her adaptation of the novel of the same name by Thomas P. Cullinan. Originally made in 1971 by director Don Siegel, Coppola offers a more restrained and beautifully realised interpretation that will either hypnotise or frustrate viewers with it's incredibly slow burning tensions.
During the American Civil War, a young girl happens across John McBurney, a wounded corporal in the Union Army. The girl brings the soldier back to the Farnsworth homestead that is currently inhabited only by women and girls. The corporal quickly becomes an object of great interest and affection amongst the women, which in turn leads to great turmoil within the family home.
The acting here is just terrific with perfectly delivered performances from Nicole Kidman, Kirsten Dunst, Colin Farrell and Elle Fanning. Like all of Sofia Coppola's films, there is a lushness and beauty to this film that makes it seem completely ethereal and otherworldly, even though the things that are happening are quite everyday and the characters are at times mundane. Overall, I thought it was a fascinating character study and an enjoyable slice of melodramatic cinema.
FINAL SAY: We can show 'em some really Southern hospitality.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 94 mins
Sofia Coppola delivers the ultimate American Southern gothic with her adaptation of the novel of the same name by Thomas P. Cullinan. Originally made in 1971 by director Don Siegel, Coppola offers a more restrained and beautifully realised interpretation that will either hypnotise or frustrate viewers with it's incredibly slow burning tensions.
During the American Civil War, a young girl happens across John McBurney, a wounded corporal in the Union Army. The girl brings the soldier back to the Farnsworth homestead that is currently inhabited only by women and girls. The corporal quickly becomes an object of great interest and affection amongst the women, which in turn leads to great turmoil within the family home.
The acting here is just terrific with perfectly delivered performances from Nicole Kidman, Kirsten Dunst, Colin Farrell and Elle Fanning. Like all of Sofia Coppola's films, there is a lushness and beauty to this film that makes it seem completely ethereal and otherworldly, even though the things that are happening are quite everyday and the characters are at times mundane. Overall, I thought it was a fascinating character study and an enjoyable slice of melodramatic cinema.
FINAL SAY: We can show 'em some really Southern hospitality.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE TUNNEL
Release Date: 2016
Rating: M
Running Time: 126 mins
A South Korean survival drama written and directed by Kim Seong-hun that packs a lot of punch as far as disaster movies go. With a genuinely interesting and plausible storyline, The Tunnel gripped me with its unexpectedly moving and emotional performances.
A man becomes trapped when a poorly constructed tunnel collapses as he is driving through it. With diminishing resources and little sign of a swift rescue, he must fight for his life in the dark, dangerous and cramped conditions.
Jung-woo Ha and Doona Bae bring a lot of heart to this tale as the suffering married couple that are longing to see each other and praying for the best, and Dal-su Oh is stellar in his role of the persistent rescue worker.
Do not confuse this South Korean hidden gem with the dreadful 2011 found footage Australian film that has the same name or you will be extremely disappointed.
FINAL SAY: When everything collapses, only hope remains.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: M
Running Time: 126 mins
A South Korean survival drama written and directed by Kim Seong-hun that packs a lot of punch as far as disaster movies go. With a genuinely interesting and plausible storyline, The Tunnel gripped me with its unexpectedly moving and emotional performances.
A man becomes trapped when a poorly constructed tunnel collapses as he is driving through it. With diminishing resources and little sign of a swift rescue, he must fight for his life in the dark, dangerous and cramped conditions.
Jung-woo Ha and Doona Bae bring a lot of heart to this tale as the suffering married couple that are longing to see each other and praying for the best, and Dal-su Oh is stellar in his role of the persistent rescue worker.
Do not confuse this South Korean hidden gem with the dreadful 2011 found footage Australian film that has the same name or you will be extremely disappointed.
FINAL SAY: When everything collapses, only hope remains.
4 Chilli Peppers
SWISS ARMY MAN
Release Date: 2016
Rating: M
Running Time: 97 mins
Anyone that is on the lookout for something completely unique and different, needs to see this movie. From the writer/ director team of Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, comes a tale that transcends all regular barriers and genre platforms and defies the audience to even attempt to make sense of what is going on.
Hank (Paul Dano) is a desperate man. He is stranded on a deserted island and ready to take his own life when a farting corpse (Daniel Radcliffe) washes up on the beach and interrupts him. Hank discovers that the corpse has many unique uses, so he names him Manny and sets off in search of civilization with his new found friend.
In truth, I don't think that this film is demanding to be understood, and there is something really enjoyable about that. Even though there are some truly endearing and revealing moments happening regularly throughout the film, it is the enduring refusal to reveal its true purpose that made it so enjoyable for me.
Dano and Radcliffe would've had some seriously big laughs during the making of this film. I can't believe that they managed to keep a straight face throughout a number of different scenes, and the onscreen humour is certainly as uncomfortable as it is funny.
FINAL SAY: I'm just a scared, ugly, useless person.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: M
Running Time: 97 mins
Anyone that is on the lookout for something completely unique and different, needs to see this movie. From the writer/ director team of Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, comes a tale that transcends all regular barriers and genre platforms and defies the audience to even attempt to make sense of what is going on.
Hank (Paul Dano) is a desperate man. He is stranded on a deserted island and ready to take his own life when a farting corpse (Daniel Radcliffe) washes up on the beach and interrupts him. Hank discovers that the corpse has many unique uses, so he names him Manny and sets off in search of civilization with his new found friend.
In truth, I don't think that this film is demanding to be understood, and there is something really enjoyable about that. Even though there are some truly endearing and revealing moments happening regularly throughout the film, it is the enduring refusal to reveal its true purpose that made it so enjoyable for me.
Dano and Radcliffe would've had some seriously big laughs during the making of this film. I can't believe that they managed to keep a straight face throughout a number of different scenes, and the onscreen humour is certainly as uncomfortable as it is funny.
FINAL SAY: I'm just a scared, ugly, useless person.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE LOVE WITCH
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 120 mins
An art house comedy/horror that was written, edited, directed, produced and scored by Anna Biller, an independent feminist American filmmaker who consciously explores feminist themes throughout her work. The Love Witch offers a playful and colourful homage to the 1960's and Technicolour Hammer Horror films whilst probing into contemporary gender roles and stereotypes.
A beautiful young witch named Elaine is looking for a new start in life after the death of her husband. Elaine attempts to use spells and magic in an attempt to find a new suitor, and although she succeeds at getting men to fall in love with her, the long term results are disastrous.
From the dramatic eye make up to the lurid bright-red fake blood effects, The Love Witch is a throwback masterpiece. Amusing and at times visually stunning, this film isn't subtle in any way and although it is slow, it still delivers in so many unique ways. Samantha Robinson is terrific as Elaine, bringing loads of feminine energy and rocking all that swinging '60s fashion with big charm and allure. Jeffrey Vincent Parise also does great job of Wayne, the first man to fall under Elaine's spell and that psychedelic sex scene is utterly unforgettable!
FINAL SAY: Men are like children. They're very easy to please as long as we give them what they want.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 120 mins
An art house comedy/horror that was written, edited, directed, produced and scored by Anna Biller, an independent feminist American filmmaker who consciously explores feminist themes throughout her work. The Love Witch offers a playful and colourful homage to the 1960's and Technicolour Hammer Horror films whilst probing into contemporary gender roles and stereotypes.
A beautiful young witch named Elaine is looking for a new start in life after the death of her husband. Elaine attempts to use spells and magic in an attempt to find a new suitor, and although she succeeds at getting men to fall in love with her, the long term results are disastrous.
From the dramatic eye make up to the lurid bright-red fake blood effects, The Love Witch is a throwback masterpiece. Amusing and at times visually stunning, this film isn't subtle in any way and although it is slow, it still delivers in so many unique ways. Samantha Robinson is terrific as Elaine, bringing loads of feminine energy and rocking all that swinging '60s fashion with big charm and allure. Jeffrey Vincent Parise also does great job of Wayne, the first man to fall under Elaine's spell and that psychedelic sex scene is utterly unforgettable!
FINAL SAY: Men are like children. They're very easy to please as long as we give them what they want.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
DEVIL'S BRIDE
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 110 mins
A Scandinavian historical drama, written and directed by Saara Cantell, that outlines the real events of the witch hunts that took place on Aland Island (Finland) in the 1600's. I did contemplate putting this on to my gritty list, because it was pretty hard going in places. Let's be honest, no-one enjoys seeing innocent women being tortured and persecuted, but this is most definitely a story that deserves to be told.
The year is 1666, and young apprentice midwife and herb-healer Anna has her life turned upside down when she falls in love with a married man. Around the same time, a witch-hunting judge arrives in town carrying a copy of The Witches Hammer and with the support of the local church, begins to 'cleanse' the small village of its witch population.
This is a harrowing and heartfelt depiction of the fear and intimidation methods that were used to elicit confessions and enforce the execution of innocent women. I am glad that this film had a female director, because there is an undeniable sisterhood and female kinship underpinning this movie that makes it all the more moving and relatable.
The sweeping landscapes, historical sets, costuming and design are all terrific, and the cast deliver really well for a group of virtual unknowns, especially Tuulia Eloranta who plays the main character Anna with a believable beauty and naivety.
FINAL SAY: Vicious Scandinavian witch trials.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 110 mins
A Scandinavian historical drama, written and directed by Saara Cantell, that outlines the real events of the witch hunts that took place on Aland Island (Finland) in the 1600's. I did contemplate putting this on to my gritty list, because it was pretty hard going in places. Let's be honest, no-one enjoys seeing innocent women being tortured and persecuted, but this is most definitely a story that deserves to be told.
The year is 1666, and young apprentice midwife and herb-healer Anna has her life turned upside down when she falls in love with a married man. Around the same time, a witch-hunting judge arrives in town carrying a copy of The Witches Hammer and with the support of the local church, begins to 'cleanse' the small village of its witch population.
This is a harrowing and heartfelt depiction of the fear and intimidation methods that were used to elicit confessions and enforce the execution of innocent women. I am glad that this film had a female director, because there is an undeniable sisterhood and female kinship underpinning this movie that makes it all the more moving and relatable.
The sweeping landscapes, historical sets, costuming and design are all terrific, and the cast deliver really well for a group of virtual unknowns, especially Tuulia Eloranta who plays the main character Anna with a believable beauty and naivety.
FINAL SAY: Vicious Scandinavian witch trials.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE LOBSTER
Release Date: 2016
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 119 mins
Set in a dystopian future where single people must find a partner within 45 days or be transformed into an animal, The Lobster delivers something poignant and unique that is so unashamedly lacking in sentimentality that it will probably leave some audiences quite shell shocked. Directed and semi-written by Yorgos Lanthimos, better known for his work on Dogtooth, The Lobster won the Jury Prize at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival, and has intrigued audiences with it's non-conventional approach to relationship material.
David (Colin Farrell) arrives at a mysterious hotel for a 45 day stay. In that time he must fall in love or be transformed into a lobster; the animal that he has chosen to become if he fails. When the prospect of potential love begins to look grim, Dave escapes the hotel and flees into the forest to join a renegade group of loners. It is in the woods that Dave encounters a short sighted woman (Rachel Weisz) that changes his life.
The tremendous cast do a fantastic job here of delivering something that is both humorous and yet also very deeply upsetting. Notable support is offered by Ben Whishaw, Lea Seydoux, John C. Reilly and Olivia Coleman, but it is Farrell and Weisz that really bring this gem into the sunshine.
If you like originality and can handle things that stray far from centre, then you too will enjoy this strange and completely compelling tale.
FINAL SAY: It's no coincidence that the targets are shaped like single people and not couples.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 119 mins
Set in a dystopian future where single people must find a partner within 45 days or be transformed into an animal, The Lobster delivers something poignant and unique that is so unashamedly lacking in sentimentality that it will probably leave some audiences quite shell shocked. Directed and semi-written by Yorgos Lanthimos, better known for his work on Dogtooth, The Lobster won the Jury Prize at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival, and has intrigued audiences with it's non-conventional approach to relationship material.
David (Colin Farrell) arrives at a mysterious hotel for a 45 day stay. In that time he must fall in love or be transformed into a lobster; the animal that he has chosen to become if he fails. When the prospect of potential love begins to look grim, Dave escapes the hotel and flees into the forest to join a renegade group of loners. It is in the woods that Dave encounters a short sighted woman (Rachel Weisz) that changes his life.
The tremendous cast do a fantastic job here of delivering something that is both humorous and yet also very deeply upsetting. Notable support is offered by Ben Whishaw, Lea Seydoux, John C. Reilly and Olivia Coleman, but it is Farrell and Weisz that really bring this gem into the sunshine.
If you like originality and can handle things that stray far from centre, then you too will enjoy this strange and completely compelling tale.
FINAL SAY: It's no coincidence that the targets are shaped like single people and not couples.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE MERMAID
Release Date: 2016
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
A completely unique Chinese fantasy/comedy/romance. The Mermaid broke numerous box office records upon its release, and became the highest grossing Chinese film of all time. Directed, co-written and co-produced by Stephen Chow, this left of centre movie comes on strong with its quirky humour, intense visual effects and 'environmentally concerned' undertones.
A mermaid has been assigned the mission of assassinating a playboy businessman who is threatening the natural habitat of her kind. Things get complicated when her target falls in love with her.
What can I say? This film needs to be seen to be believed really, it's like nothing that I have ever seen before, and even though it is riddled with weird Chinese humour and unusual behaviours, there is definitely something charming and intensely likeable about it. Watch it with your sense of humour tuned to high frequency.
FINAL SAY: Delicious roast chickens and freshly fried octopus.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
A completely unique Chinese fantasy/comedy/romance. The Mermaid broke numerous box office records upon its release, and became the highest grossing Chinese film of all time. Directed, co-written and co-produced by Stephen Chow, this left of centre movie comes on strong with its quirky humour, intense visual effects and 'environmentally concerned' undertones.
A mermaid has been assigned the mission of assassinating a playboy businessman who is threatening the natural habitat of her kind. Things get complicated when her target falls in love with her.
What can I say? This film needs to be seen to be believed really, it's like nothing that I have ever seen before, and even though it is riddled with weird Chinese humour and unusual behaviours, there is definitely something charming and intensely likeable about it. Watch it with your sense of humour tuned to high frequency.
FINAL SAY: Delicious roast chickens and freshly fried octopus.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE YOUNG OFFENDERS
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 83 mins
An Irish crime/comedy that was written, directed and co-produced by Peter Foott. The Young Offenders delivers a sweet and infectiously enjoyable bromance, shot along the Wild Atlantic Way of Cork.
Two haphazard and wayward teenagers set out on stolen bicycles for a road trip that will change their lives forever. They plan to seize a bale of cocaine that has fallen off a drug trafficking boat that is rumoured to be capsized off the coast of County Cook.
Best friends Conor (Alex Murphy) and Jock (Chris Walley) are a pretty entertaining couple, they're literally a modern day version of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn, making this film amusing and also at times quite heart warming. This is a fun watch that was actually inspired by the real life seizure of 1.5 tonnes of cocaine off the Irish coast in 2007, and at just over 80 mins running time, it's a fabulous short viewing choice.
FINAL SAY: If I was looking for stuff, stuff would be found.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 83 mins
An Irish crime/comedy that was written, directed and co-produced by Peter Foott. The Young Offenders delivers a sweet and infectiously enjoyable bromance, shot along the Wild Atlantic Way of Cork.
Two haphazard and wayward teenagers set out on stolen bicycles for a road trip that will change their lives forever. They plan to seize a bale of cocaine that has fallen off a drug trafficking boat that is rumoured to be capsized off the coast of County Cook.
Best friends Conor (Alex Murphy) and Jock (Chris Walley) are a pretty entertaining couple, they're literally a modern day version of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn, making this film amusing and also at times quite heart warming. This is a fun watch that was actually inspired by the real life seizure of 1.5 tonnes of cocaine off the Irish coast in 2007, and at just over 80 mins running time, it's a fabulous short viewing choice.
FINAL SAY: If I was looking for stuff, stuff would be found.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
LEMONADE
Release Date: 2016
Rating: M
Running Time: 65 mins
More of a visual album than an actual movie, Beyoncé's Lemonade has been dubbed a revolutionary vision of Black feminism; and it left me in deep admiration for this powerful performer.
Divided into eleven chapter, titles "Intuition", "Denial", "Anger", "Apathy", "Emptiness", "Accountability", "Reformation", "Hope" and "Redemption" the film uses poetry and prose written by British-Somali poet Warsan Shire as well as Beyoncé's music to serve as a visual accompaniment to her 2016 album also entitled Lemonade.
Moving, powerful and deeply affecting, Lemonade delivers a jolt of energy and a sucker punch to the face. Miriam Bale for Billboard called Lemonade a film that is made by black women, stars black women and is for black woman, but trust me when I say that this is film is extremely enjoyable for all audiences and celebrates diversity and feminism in beautiful and magical ways that all women can embrace and relate to.
This film changed the way that I saw Beyoncé forever and made me love her music all the more, it's a must see film for women everywhere.
FINAL SAY: You betta call Becky with the good hair!
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: M
Running Time: 65 mins
More of a visual album than an actual movie, Beyoncé's Lemonade has been dubbed a revolutionary vision of Black feminism; and it left me in deep admiration for this powerful performer.
Divided into eleven chapter, titles "Intuition", "Denial", "Anger", "Apathy", "Emptiness", "Accountability", "Reformation", "Hope" and "Redemption" the film uses poetry and prose written by British-Somali poet Warsan Shire as well as Beyoncé's music to serve as a visual accompaniment to her 2016 album also entitled Lemonade.
Moving, powerful and deeply affecting, Lemonade delivers a jolt of energy and a sucker punch to the face. Miriam Bale for Billboard called Lemonade a film that is made by black women, stars black women and is for black woman, but trust me when I say that this is film is extremely enjoyable for all audiences and celebrates diversity and feminism in beautiful and magical ways that all women can embrace and relate to.
This film changed the way that I saw Beyoncé forever and made me love her music all the more, it's a must see film for women everywhere.
FINAL SAY: You betta call Becky with the good hair!
4 Chilli Peppers
THE CROW'S EGG
Release Date: 2015
Rating: PG
Running Time: 109 mins
An Indian Tamil-language comedy-drama film written, directed and filmed by M. Manikandan. Premiering at the 39th Toronto Film Festival, The Crow's Egg amused and touched audiences with its tale of brotherhood in the slums of Chennai, India.
Two resourceful brothers that live with their mother and grandmother in the slums, hatch a money making scheme that will enable them to have their very first taste of pizza from the new pizza chain that has just opened up near their home.
The children actors - J. Vignesh and V. Ramesh, are so delightfully mischievous and resourceful, they really made this movie an absolute joy to watch. This is one of those films that really puts into perspective the extreme hardships of the people that are living in the slums of India. When you have to work for a month just to afford a fast food pizza, things are really very tough indeed.
FINAL SAY: Desperate for the pizza dream.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: PG
Running Time: 109 mins
An Indian Tamil-language comedy-drama film written, directed and filmed by M. Manikandan. Premiering at the 39th Toronto Film Festival, The Crow's Egg amused and touched audiences with its tale of brotherhood in the slums of Chennai, India.
Two resourceful brothers that live with their mother and grandmother in the slums, hatch a money making scheme that will enable them to have their very first taste of pizza from the new pizza chain that has just opened up near their home.
The children actors - J. Vignesh and V. Ramesh, are so delightfully mischievous and resourceful, they really made this movie an absolute joy to watch. This is one of those films that really puts into perspective the extreme hardships of the people that are living in the slums of India. When you have to work for a month just to afford a fast food pizza, things are really very tough indeed.
FINAL SAY: Desperate for the pizza dream.
3 Chilli Peppers
TEHRAN TAXI
Release Date: 2015
Rating: M
Running Time: 82 mins
Director Jafar Panahi takes front of stage as an unassuming taxi driver in this revealing Iranian docufiction film. Winner of The Golden Bear Award at the 65th Berlin International Film Festival, Tehran Taxi (often known simply as Taxi) offers viewers a glimpse into the lives of the Tehran locals as they confide their thoughts to Panahi within the confines of the taxi.
Panahi's movies have always caused controversy due to their humanistic perspective of life in Iran, which often focuses on the hardhips of children, the impoverish and women. The controversy surrounding the content of his films and his years of conflict with the Iranian Government saw Panahir arrested in 2010, given a six-year jail sentence and a 20 year ban from film making. Whilst awaiting an appeal on the outcome, Panahi made the movie This is Not a Film, which in spite of the ramifications of his arrest, the film was smuggled out of Iran on a flash drive that was hidden inside a cake, and went on to be shown at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival. Panahi's commitment to his craft and passion to expose the realities of Iranian life has been an inspiration to millions.
Tehran Taxi also felt very bold to me, and unlikeThis is Not a Film and Closed Curtain which were filmed in extreme secrecy, this has an edge of 'in-your-face' attitude that really appealed to me. Although at times Tehran Taxi is terrifically amusing, there is clearly another underlying message being delivered here about the social injustices that continue to exist in Iran today, making this a film that must be admired for both its bravery and its creativity.
FINAL SAY: You have to look elsewhere, you have to find it for yourself.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: M
Running Time: 82 mins
Director Jafar Panahi takes front of stage as an unassuming taxi driver in this revealing Iranian docufiction film. Winner of The Golden Bear Award at the 65th Berlin International Film Festival, Tehran Taxi (often known simply as Taxi) offers viewers a glimpse into the lives of the Tehran locals as they confide their thoughts to Panahi within the confines of the taxi.
Panahi's movies have always caused controversy due to their humanistic perspective of life in Iran, which often focuses on the hardhips of children, the impoverish and women. The controversy surrounding the content of his films and his years of conflict with the Iranian Government saw Panahir arrested in 2010, given a six-year jail sentence and a 20 year ban from film making. Whilst awaiting an appeal on the outcome, Panahi made the movie This is Not a Film, which in spite of the ramifications of his arrest, the film was smuggled out of Iran on a flash drive that was hidden inside a cake, and went on to be shown at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival. Panahi's commitment to his craft and passion to expose the realities of Iranian life has been an inspiration to millions.
Tehran Taxi also felt very bold to me, and unlikeThis is Not a Film and Closed Curtain which were filmed in extreme secrecy, this has an edge of 'in-your-face' attitude that really appealed to me. Although at times Tehran Taxi is terrifically amusing, there is clearly another underlying message being delivered here about the social injustices that continue to exist in Iran today, making this a film that must be admired for both its bravery and its creativity.
FINAL SAY: You have to look elsewhere, you have to find it for yourself.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE BRAND NEW TESTAMENT
Release Date: 2015
Rating: M
Running Time: 114 mins
A French language fantasy/comedy written, produced and directed by Jaco Van Dormael that delivers new levels of quirk and curiosity to the idea of divine intervention.
God is alive. Trouble is, he's an asshole living in Brussels and he's clearly doing a crappy job of managing humanity. His young daughter Ea decides that she could do a much better job than her father and heads out into the world to find six new disciples to help her write a new and improved testament.
Young Pili Groyne is a delight as the headstrong daughter of God - Ea; I feel like we may be seeing a lot of more of her in the future. I also enjoyed seeing Catherine Deneuve back on screen again as the intensely interesting, gorilla loving character, Martine. To be honest all of the characters in this film were terrifically original and intriguing, I was deeply amused.
I really liked this movie, there was something so beautiful, fresh and playful about it that I thoroughly enjoyed. It is one of the most inventive movies that I have seen in a while, and for lovers of quirk, it is a definite must see.
FINAL SAY: Life is like a skating rink, a lot of people fall.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: M
Running Time: 114 mins
A French language fantasy/comedy written, produced and directed by Jaco Van Dormael that delivers new levels of quirk and curiosity to the idea of divine intervention.
God is alive. Trouble is, he's an asshole living in Brussels and he's clearly doing a crappy job of managing humanity. His young daughter Ea decides that she could do a much better job than her father and heads out into the world to find six new disciples to help her write a new and improved testament.
Young Pili Groyne is a delight as the headstrong daughter of God - Ea; I feel like we may be seeing a lot of more of her in the future. I also enjoyed seeing Catherine Deneuve back on screen again as the intensely interesting, gorilla loving character, Martine. To be honest all of the characters in this film were terrifically original and intriguing, I was deeply amused.
I really liked this movie, there was something so beautiful, fresh and playful about it that I thoroughly enjoyed. It is one of the most inventive movies that I have seen in a while, and for lovers of quirk, it is a definite must see.
FINAL SAY: Life is like a skating rink, a lot of people fall.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
20,000 DAYS ON EARTH
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 97 mins
A fictitious depiction of a day in the life of musician Nick Cave. Co-written by Iain Forsyth, Jane Pollard and Nick Cave himself, we get an intimate view of the world through this eccentric and poetic performer as he celebrates his 20,000th day on the planet.
If you are not yet a Nick Cave fan, this film will probably make you one; and for those that already adore him, well you are in for a treat. I myself knew very little about Nick Cave before watching this film, and found myself quickly understanding what it was about him that mesmerizes and captivates audiences.
The film focuses on Nick's artistic processes as a performer and brings together all of the elements of his life and experiences in a disarmingly self-aware and almost mythological fashion. He is clearly a sensitive, reflective and highly intelligent individual with talents that span across many fields of artistry, but what struck me most about Nick was his dark, broody and ever evolving thought processes, that never really seem to cease. Some may see this film as self indulgent, but anyone that is spending that much time on their craft deserves to have a film made about them, and this is a truly interesting movie about a very intriguing man.
FINAL SAY: In the end, I am not interested in that which I fully understand.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 97 mins
A fictitious depiction of a day in the life of musician Nick Cave. Co-written by Iain Forsyth, Jane Pollard and Nick Cave himself, we get an intimate view of the world through this eccentric and poetic performer as he celebrates his 20,000th day on the planet.
If you are not yet a Nick Cave fan, this film will probably make you one; and for those that already adore him, well you are in for a treat. I myself knew very little about Nick Cave before watching this film, and found myself quickly understanding what it was about him that mesmerizes and captivates audiences.
The film focuses on Nick's artistic processes as a performer and brings together all of the elements of his life and experiences in a disarmingly self-aware and almost mythological fashion. He is clearly a sensitive, reflective and highly intelligent individual with talents that span across many fields of artistry, but what struck me most about Nick was his dark, broody and ever evolving thought processes, that never really seem to cease. Some may see this film as self indulgent, but anyone that is spending that much time on their craft deserves to have a film made about them, and this is a truly interesting movie about a very intriguing man.
FINAL SAY: In the end, I am not interested in that which I fully understand.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
WILD TALES
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 121 mins
A Spanish language black-comedy anthology film, also called Relatos Salvajes; that was written and directed by Argentine filmmaker Damian Szifron. The movie is composed of six standalone shorts with the common theme of catharsis, violence and vengeance. Four of the six stories were actually based on Szifron's real life experiences and were all planned either as thrillers or dramas, but I have to say that I really enjoyed the black comedy interpretation of these stories and laughed out loud many times when I watched this movie.
The six short stories are as follows:
Pasternak which is all about a plane ride.
The Rats which is about revenge.
The Strongest which is centred on road rage.
Little Bomb which unpacks frustration and control.
The Proposal which covers responsibility and guilt.
'Til Death Do Us Part which exposes infidelity.
All of the tales have a moral conundrum and they are all very entertaining. The ensemble cast is a collection of highly appraised Spanish actors with Oscar Martinez, Ricardo Darin, Leonardo Sbaraglia, Erica Rivas and Rita Cortese making appearances to name but a few. I have absolutely no doubt that Wild Tales will become a cult classic in years to come, watch it with an open mind and a sense of adventure!
FINAL SAY: Now, go screw yourself!
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 121 mins
A Spanish language black-comedy anthology film, also called Relatos Salvajes; that was written and directed by Argentine filmmaker Damian Szifron. The movie is composed of six standalone shorts with the common theme of catharsis, violence and vengeance. Four of the six stories were actually based on Szifron's real life experiences and were all planned either as thrillers or dramas, but I have to say that I really enjoyed the black comedy interpretation of these stories and laughed out loud many times when I watched this movie.
The six short stories are as follows:
Pasternak which is all about a plane ride.
The Rats which is about revenge.
The Strongest which is centred on road rage.
Little Bomb which unpacks frustration and control.
The Proposal which covers responsibility and guilt.
'Til Death Do Us Part which exposes infidelity.
All of the tales have a moral conundrum and they are all very entertaining. The ensemble cast is a collection of highly appraised Spanish actors with Oscar Martinez, Ricardo Darin, Leonardo Sbaraglia, Erica Rivas and Rita Cortese making appearances to name but a few. I have absolutely no doubt that Wild Tales will become a cult classic in years to come, watch it with an open mind and a sense of adventure!
FINAL SAY: Now, go screw yourself!
4 Chilli Peppers
BOYHOOD
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 165 mins
A quintessential coming of age story, outlining one boy's life journey from age 6 to 18. Linklater spent 12 years putting this movie together, using the same entire cast to give more depth and meaning to every era of Mason's development.
Mason (Ellar Coltrane) doesn't have the most interesting or exciting life, he is just a normal boy growing up and meeting challenges day to day. But this is not a film that seeks to delve too deeply, but rather skate it's viewers across the surface of the everyday and often mundane events and pitfalls that just occur along the path to finding ourselves.
The time periods are like a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The clothing, the hairstyles, the major events, the gaming choices and the soundtrack all tell a story and perfectly help capture each moment in time.
Patricia Arquette and Ethan Hawke are fabulous as Mason's parents; constantly changing, ebbing and flowing along side of their children as they too develop their own lives and circumstances. Richard Linklater's own daughter Lorelei Linklater does a great job of her role as Samantha, Mason's older sister.
This movie is set to become a modern classic, not just because it's breaking new ground in movie making but also because it is has so much going on that could be explored in much greater depth.
FINAL SAY: You only get to grow up once.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 165 mins
A quintessential coming of age story, outlining one boy's life journey from age 6 to 18. Linklater spent 12 years putting this movie together, using the same entire cast to give more depth and meaning to every era of Mason's development.
Mason (Ellar Coltrane) doesn't have the most interesting or exciting life, he is just a normal boy growing up and meeting challenges day to day. But this is not a film that seeks to delve too deeply, but rather skate it's viewers across the surface of the everyday and often mundane events and pitfalls that just occur along the path to finding ourselves.
The time periods are like a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The clothing, the hairstyles, the major events, the gaming choices and the soundtrack all tell a story and perfectly help capture each moment in time.
Patricia Arquette and Ethan Hawke are fabulous as Mason's parents; constantly changing, ebbing and flowing along side of their children as they too develop their own lives and circumstances. Richard Linklater's own daughter Lorelei Linklater does a great job of her role as Samantha, Mason's older sister.
This movie is set to become a modern classic, not just because it's breaking new ground in movie making but also because it is has so much going on that could be explored in much greater depth.
FINAL SAY: You only get to grow up once.
4 Chilli Peppers
CALVARY
Release Date: 2014
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 102 mins
An Irish drama, written and directed by John Michael McDonagh, Calvary plays out a bit like a murder-mystery, in a very high brow way. Full of intense beauty, dark humour and extreme ugliness, I found myself captivated and repulsed by the intensely unlikable characters and the magical Irish landscapes.
Father James (Brendan Gleeson) is a good and grounded catholic priest in a small coastal Irish town. One of the members of the parish comes to confession to warn Father James that due to the abuse that he suffered as a child at the hands of the church, he plans to seek his revenge by killing the priest in just over a weeks time. Father James has his suspicions about who is planning to kill him, but the struggles of the rest of his community and his family continue to draw all of his attentions away from the real problem at hand.
Brendan Gleeson is tremendously good as Father James, portraying a priest with an insurmountable amount of challenges with good humour and genuine sensitivity. This is really profound and powerful viewing, and a fabulous ensemble cast brings it all home perfectly making Calvary a fabulous slice of drama and intrigue.
FINAL SAY: It's just that you have no integrity. And that's the worst thing that I could say about anybody.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 102 mins
An Irish drama, written and directed by John Michael McDonagh, Calvary plays out a bit like a murder-mystery, in a very high brow way. Full of intense beauty, dark humour and extreme ugliness, I found myself captivated and repulsed by the intensely unlikable characters and the magical Irish landscapes.
Father James (Brendan Gleeson) is a good and grounded catholic priest in a small coastal Irish town. One of the members of the parish comes to confession to warn Father James that due to the abuse that he suffered as a child at the hands of the church, he plans to seek his revenge by killing the priest in just over a weeks time. Father James has his suspicions about who is planning to kill him, but the struggles of the rest of his community and his family continue to draw all of his attentions away from the real problem at hand.
Brendan Gleeson is tremendously good as Father James, portraying a priest with an insurmountable amount of challenges with good humour and genuine sensitivity. This is really profound and powerful viewing, and a fabulous ensemble cast brings it all home perfectly making Calvary a fabulous slice of drama and intrigue.
FINAL SAY: It's just that you have no integrity. And that's the worst thing that I could say about anybody.
4 Chilli Peppers
FRANK
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 95 mins
Directed by Lenny Abrahamson, Frank is a fictional tale loosely based on character of Frank Sidebottom. Frank was the comic persona of real life musician Chris Sievey who was rumoured to have given financial backing to the film before his death. The film has received generally positive acclaim for it's mostly unusual, whimsical and quirky nature, all of which are in plentiful measures here.
After a chance meeting, wannabe musician Jon, agrees to play keyboard for an eccentric pop band led by a mysterious and papier mache head wearing singer called Frank. Desperate to be embraced by this new collection of unusual individuals, Jon agrees to join them on trip to record an album, quickly realizing that he has bitten off more than he can chew.
Michael Fassbender is epic as Frank, a character whose insane and mostly absurd behaviours somehow make him endearing. Domhnall Gleeson does a terrific job of portraying Jon, the square peg in a round hole and Maggie Gyllenhaal is nutty as a well made fruitcake as quirky Clara.
This is pretty weird stuff, the characters are completely unpredictable and generally non-compliant to societal norms in every way. Expect the unexpected and watch it with a very open mind.
FINAL SAY: Secure the galactic perimetres.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 95 mins
Directed by Lenny Abrahamson, Frank is a fictional tale loosely based on character of Frank Sidebottom. Frank was the comic persona of real life musician Chris Sievey who was rumoured to have given financial backing to the film before his death. The film has received generally positive acclaim for it's mostly unusual, whimsical and quirky nature, all of which are in plentiful measures here.
After a chance meeting, wannabe musician Jon, agrees to play keyboard for an eccentric pop band led by a mysterious and papier mache head wearing singer called Frank. Desperate to be embraced by this new collection of unusual individuals, Jon agrees to join them on trip to record an album, quickly realizing that he has bitten off more than he can chew.
Michael Fassbender is epic as Frank, a character whose insane and mostly absurd behaviours somehow make him endearing. Domhnall Gleeson does a terrific job of portraying Jon, the square peg in a round hole and Maggie Gyllenhaal is nutty as a well made fruitcake as quirky Clara.
This is pretty weird stuff, the characters are completely unpredictable and generally non-compliant to societal norms in every way. Expect the unexpected and watch it with a very open mind.
FINAL SAY: Secure the galactic perimetres.
3 Chilli Peppers
A GIRL WALKS HOME ALONE AT NIGHT
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 101 mins
The first Iranian vampire Western, directed by Iranian-American director, screenwriter, producer and actor Ana Lily Amirpour. Making it's debut at the Sundance Film Festival in 2014, A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night received largely positive reviews for it's slick and beautifully moody portrayal of the life of a lone vampire. Shot in brilliant black and white, this noir feature is destined to become a cult classic.
In an Iranian ghost town called Bad City, the desperate and destitute locals are completely unaware of the lonesome skateboarding vampire that stalks the streets at night, preying upon men that mistreat women.
This is a visual masterpiece, the cinematography is reminiscent of a dark graphic novel with its stark, bold contrasts. Every shot seems to have been painstakingly composed, and the music really adds another layer of intrigue to this 'style over substance' movie. Definitely unique and eerily atmospheric, A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night is a memorable and worthy watch.
FINAL SAY: I could pluck out your eyeballs and feed them to the dogs.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 101 mins
The first Iranian vampire Western, directed by Iranian-American director, screenwriter, producer and actor Ana Lily Amirpour. Making it's debut at the Sundance Film Festival in 2014, A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night received largely positive reviews for it's slick and beautifully moody portrayal of the life of a lone vampire. Shot in brilliant black and white, this noir feature is destined to become a cult classic.
In an Iranian ghost town called Bad City, the desperate and destitute locals are completely unaware of the lonesome skateboarding vampire that stalks the streets at night, preying upon men that mistreat women.
This is a visual masterpiece, the cinematography is reminiscent of a dark graphic novel with its stark, bold contrasts. Every shot seems to have been painstakingly composed, and the music really adds another layer of intrigue to this 'style over substance' movie. Definitely unique and eerily atmospheric, A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night is a memorable and worthy watch.
FINAL SAY: I could pluck out your eyeballs and feed them to the dogs.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE HUNDRED-YEAR-OLD MAN WHO CLIMBED OUT OF THE WINDOW AND DISAPPEARED
Release Date: 2013
Rating: M
Running Time: 114 mins
Based on the novel of the same name by Jonas Jonasson and directed by Felix Herngren, this Swedish comedy became the third highest grossing Swedish film of all time and was nominated for a Best Makeup and Hair-styling Award at the 88th Academy Awards.
100 year old Allan Karlsson (Robert Gustafsson) is tired of his life at the retirement home, so he simply climbs out the window and embarks on a most unexpected journey. As Allan's adventures progress, we are given a detailed recollection of his long and colourful life through a series of flashbacks.
This is an extremely fun and entertaining watch, Allan's indifference to the intense things that are happening around him is quite hysterical. In a Forrest Gump like fashion, his life experiences are interesting, historically significant and absolutely extraordinary. It's a seriously wacky ride from start to end, have fun with it.
FINAL SAY: If you want to kill me, you'd better hurry, because I'm 100 years old.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Note: There is a second instalment of this film, which was released in 2016, called The 101- Year-Old-Man Who Skipped Out On the Bill and Disappeared, which does follow on from the first movie but is not nearly as good as the first effort and only rated a rather tepid 2.5 Chilli Peppers from me. I would recommend skipping it entirely.
Release Date: 2013
Rating: M
Running Time: 114 mins
Based on the novel of the same name by Jonas Jonasson and directed by Felix Herngren, this Swedish comedy became the third highest grossing Swedish film of all time and was nominated for a Best Makeup and Hair-styling Award at the 88th Academy Awards.
100 year old Allan Karlsson (Robert Gustafsson) is tired of his life at the retirement home, so he simply climbs out the window and embarks on a most unexpected journey. As Allan's adventures progress, we are given a detailed recollection of his long and colourful life through a series of flashbacks.
This is an extremely fun and entertaining watch, Allan's indifference to the intense things that are happening around him is quite hysterical. In a Forrest Gump like fashion, his life experiences are interesting, historically significant and absolutely extraordinary. It's a seriously wacky ride from start to end, have fun with it.
FINAL SAY: If you want to kill me, you'd better hurry, because I'm 100 years old.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Note: There is a second instalment of this film, which was released in 2016, called The 101- Year-Old-Man Who Skipped Out On the Bill and Disappeared, which does follow on from the first movie but is not nearly as good as the first effort and only rated a rather tepid 2.5 Chilli Peppers from me. I would recommend skipping it entirely.
STOKER
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 99 mins
Let me just say, that I absolutely loved this movie. Written by Wentworth Miller and directed by South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook, this was the last film to be produced by Tony Scott, who passed away after production. Strongly influenced by Hitchcock themes, Stoker showcases the best use of dark and atmospheric imagery intertwined with a riveting narrative to play out like a gothic mystery that is guaranteed to keep you enthralled until the very last moments.
India Stoker (Mia Wasikowska) is left alone with her rather unstable mother Evelyn (Nicole Kidman) after her father is killed in a tragic accident. However, when her charismatic and virtually unknown Uncle Charlie (Matthew Goode) moves in with them, India finds herself inexplicably drawn to his mysterious and increasingly suspicious behaviours.
Highly stylized in every sense, this is a beautiful and mostly melancholic movie that has an almost dream like quality to it. The tensions in Stoker run so high that they are positively palpable, I was just spellbound from start to end; the extreme close-ups, visceral music and stark imagery, I couldn't get this film out of my mind for days after. The acting here is exceptional, and it really galvanized Wasikowska's ability for me, definitely making her 'the actress to watch' from that point on.
FINAL SAY: We don't need to be friends, we're family.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 99 mins
Let me just say, that I absolutely loved this movie. Written by Wentworth Miller and directed by South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook, this was the last film to be produced by Tony Scott, who passed away after production. Strongly influenced by Hitchcock themes, Stoker showcases the best use of dark and atmospheric imagery intertwined with a riveting narrative to play out like a gothic mystery that is guaranteed to keep you enthralled until the very last moments.
India Stoker (Mia Wasikowska) is left alone with her rather unstable mother Evelyn (Nicole Kidman) after her father is killed in a tragic accident. However, when her charismatic and virtually unknown Uncle Charlie (Matthew Goode) moves in with them, India finds herself inexplicably drawn to his mysterious and increasingly suspicious behaviours.
Highly stylized in every sense, this is a beautiful and mostly melancholic movie that has an almost dream like quality to it. The tensions in Stoker run so high that they are positively palpable, I was just spellbound from start to end; the extreme close-ups, visceral music and stark imagery, I couldn't get this film out of my mind for days after. The acting here is exceptional, and it really galvanized Wasikowska's ability for me, definitely making her 'the actress to watch' from that point on.
FINAL SAY: We don't need to be friends, we're family.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 123 mins
A modern vampire tale that belongs on an art house list and not a horror list, because there is really no horror to speak of. Written and directed by Jim Jaramusch and filmed across several locations including Detroit, Tangier, Hamburg and Cologne; Only Lovers Left Alive is exclusively shot at night - due to the vampire issue, and it translates with a mesmerizingly poetic and nocturnal ambiance.
Adam (Tom Hiddleston) and Eve (Tilda Swinton) are centuries old lovers and vampires. Living in the 21st century has made them far more careful and evolved about the ways that they source their blood, but when Eve's reckless vampire sister Ava (Mia Wasikowska) comes to stay, their harmony and their methods are put to the test.
Swinton and Hiddleston shine with a calm cool that we would expect from modern day vampires, and their 'eternal love' for each other was translated perfectly. This is a slick and stylish vampire movie that doesn't rely on horror or cliches to get across it's story.
FINAL SAY: The mutual jeopardy makes me feel safer.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 123 mins
A modern vampire tale that belongs on an art house list and not a horror list, because there is really no horror to speak of. Written and directed by Jim Jaramusch and filmed across several locations including Detroit, Tangier, Hamburg and Cologne; Only Lovers Left Alive is exclusively shot at night - due to the vampire issue, and it translates with a mesmerizingly poetic and nocturnal ambiance.
Adam (Tom Hiddleston) and Eve (Tilda Swinton) are centuries old lovers and vampires. Living in the 21st century has made them far more careful and evolved about the ways that they source their blood, but when Eve's reckless vampire sister Ava (Mia Wasikowska) comes to stay, their harmony and their methods are put to the test.
Swinton and Hiddleston shine with a calm cool that we would expect from modern day vampires, and their 'eternal love' for each other was translated perfectly. This is a slick and stylish vampire movie that doesn't rely on horror or cliches to get across it's story.
FINAL SAY: The mutual jeopardy makes me feel safer.
4 Chilli Peppers
JOURNEY TO THE WEST: CONQUERING THE DEMONS
Release Date: 2013
Rating: M
Running Time: 110 mins
A Chinese language, fantasy, comedy film that was co-written, co- directed and produced Stephen Chow. A loose comedic re-interpretation of the famous Chinese literary classic novel Journey to the West, this sweet and silly tale delivers just the right balance of fantasy and action to make it a real winner.
An aspiring Buddhist monk attempts to protect a fishing village from three vicious demons. His misadventures lead him to team up with an amorous female demon hunter named Miss Duan, and eventually the two must unite to battle the legendary Monkey King.
When you're combining ancient tales of Chinese mythology with Stephen Chow's zany and original style of storytelling, you know that you just can't go wrong. Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons is left of centre, highly entertaining, fast paced and extremely funny. In short - it's an unmissable Chinese treat, and a perfect viewing choice for a Lunar New Year celebration.
FINAL SAY: This is straight up bananas!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: M
Running Time: 110 mins
A Chinese language, fantasy, comedy film that was co-written, co- directed and produced Stephen Chow. A loose comedic re-interpretation of the famous Chinese literary classic novel Journey to the West, this sweet and silly tale delivers just the right balance of fantasy and action to make it a real winner.
An aspiring Buddhist monk attempts to protect a fishing village from three vicious demons. His misadventures lead him to team up with an amorous female demon hunter named Miss Duan, and eventually the two must unite to battle the legendary Monkey King.
When you're combining ancient tales of Chinese mythology with Stephen Chow's zany and original style of storytelling, you know that you just can't go wrong. Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons is left of centre, highly entertaining, fast paced and extremely funny. In short - it's an unmissable Chinese treat, and a perfect viewing choice for a Lunar New Year celebration.
FINAL SAY: This is straight up bananas!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE GREAT BEAUTY (LA GRANDE BELLEZZA)
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 142 mins
An Italian art drama co-written and directed by Paolo Sorrentino and filmed exclusively in Rome. After premiering at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival, The Great Beauty went on to win the Best Foreign Language Film at the 86th Academy Awards and also at the BAFTAs.
When socialite and 'Party King' Jep Gambardella turns 65, he begins to reflect on the meaning of his life. Through a series of eccentric, romantic and artistic interludes throughout Rome, Jep attempts to define what benefit he has gained from his opulent and privileged lifestyle.
This movie is a powerhouse of pure pleasure. The music, the streetscapes, the cinematography and the dialogue are all married together to create something altogether ravishing, meditative and somewhat otherworldly. In many ways The Great Beauty is a story about one man's love affair with Rome, with life, with finding reason and with beauty in all of its forms.
I found it completely mesmerising and intensely satisfying. This is nothing short of a masterpiece and it is an unmissable slice of cinematic brilliance.
FINAL SAY: We're all on the brink of despair.
5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 142 mins
An Italian art drama co-written and directed by Paolo Sorrentino and filmed exclusively in Rome. After premiering at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival, The Great Beauty went on to win the Best Foreign Language Film at the 86th Academy Awards and also at the BAFTAs.
When socialite and 'Party King' Jep Gambardella turns 65, he begins to reflect on the meaning of his life. Through a series of eccentric, romantic and artistic interludes throughout Rome, Jep attempts to define what benefit he has gained from his opulent and privileged lifestyle.
This movie is a powerhouse of pure pleasure. The music, the streetscapes, the cinematography and the dialogue are all married together to create something altogether ravishing, meditative and somewhat otherworldly. In many ways The Great Beauty is a story about one man's love affair with Rome, with life, with finding reason and with beauty in all of its forms.
I found it completely mesmerising and intensely satisfying. This is nothing short of a masterpiece and it is an unmissable slice of cinematic brilliance.
FINAL SAY: We're all on the brink of despair.
5 Chilli Peppers
SIGHTSEERS
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 88 mins
Directed by Ben Wheatley, this offbeat black-comedy grabbed me from the very beginning with it's mix of unusual and yet everyday characters; making me immediately intrigued about where the movie was heading, and pleasantly surprised by the results.
New couple Chris and Tina are heading out on a road-trip holiday in Chris' caravan, much to the disgust of Tina's unlikable mother. Before long, Chris shows his true colours and murderous nature when he accidentally runs over a litter-bug that he engaged earlier, and shows no remorse for his actions. From that point on, a murderous rampage begins across the British countryside, with the couple escalating their disturbing behaviours as they travel.
Think of the two nerdiest versions of Mickey and Mallory from Natural Born Killers that you can imagine and you will be arriving at the right wheelhouse of thought. This film has such a strange compilation of marvelous scenery, hideously immoral behaviour and jet-black humour that it is quite difficult to pin down to just one genre, Sightseers really is in a league of it's own, a very good league of it's own.
FINAL SAY: This is not my vagina!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 88 mins
Directed by Ben Wheatley, this offbeat black-comedy grabbed me from the very beginning with it's mix of unusual and yet everyday characters; making me immediately intrigued about where the movie was heading, and pleasantly surprised by the results.
New couple Chris and Tina are heading out on a road-trip holiday in Chris' caravan, much to the disgust of Tina's unlikable mother. Before long, Chris shows his true colours and murderous nature when he accidentally runs over a litter-bug that he engaged earlier, and shows no remorse for his actions. From that point on, a murderous rampage begins across the British countryside, with the couple escalating their disturbing behaviours as they travel.
Think of the two nerdiest versions of Mickey and Mallory from Natural Born Killers that you can imagine and you will be arriving at the right wheelhouse of thought. This film has such a strange compilation of marvelous scenery, hideously immoral behaviour and jet-black humour that it is quite difficult to pin down to just one genre, Sightseers really is in a league of it's own, a very good league of it's own.
FINAL SAY: This is not my vagina!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
SISTER
Release Date: 2012
Rating: M
Running Time: 97 mins
This movie gained lots of attention when it was released, winning the Silver Bear award at the Berlin Film Festival and being nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Film. It is a French language film, set at the base of the Swiss Alps and showcasing some of the most majestic and beautiful landscapes.
We follow the life of twelve year old Simon who is supporting his wayward sister by stealing from wealthy skiers on the mountain. Simon takes on all of the responsibilities for his sister and is forced into the role of the adult; but he soon realizes that there is still a child inside of him that needs to be loved.
Kacey Mottet Klein is incredible as Simon, easily one of the saddest child roles of recent times; and Lea Seydoux (best known for Blue is the Warmest Color) portrays all of the patchiness of Louise perfectly. Really confronting and utterly heart wrenching, it is impossible to not feel for both of the characters as they struggle to define themselves in the face of adversity.
FINAL SAY: Everyone is just a product.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: M
Running Time: 97 mins
This movie gained lots of attention when it was released, winning the Silver Bear award at the Berlin Film Festival and being nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Film. It is a French language film, set at the base of the Swiss Alps and showcasing some of the most majestic and beautiful landscapes.
We follow the life of twelve year old Simon who is supporting his wayward sister by stealing from wealthy skiers on the mountain. Simon takes on all of the responsibilities for his sister and is forced into the role of the adult; but he soon realizes that there is still a child inside of him that needs to be loved.
Kacey Mottet Klein is incredible as Simon, easily one of the saddest child roles of recent times; and Lea Seydoux (best known for Blue is the Warmest Color) portrays all of the patchiness of Louise perfectly. Really confronting and utterly heart wrenching, it is impossible to not feel for both of the characters as they struggle to define themselves in the face of adversity.
FINAL SAY: Everyone is just a product.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
FRANCES HA
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running: 86 mins
You aren't going to really like anyone all that much in this movie. You aren't going to be blown away with a rich and intriguing story line. And you aren't going to be changed emotionally by seeing this movie; and that is because this film is not setting out to do those things.
Frances Ha is a movie about the unbearable lightness of being, about everyday people - most of whom are pretty annoying and self involved. It's about the shitty everyday stuff that happens, mostly of little consequence and mostly in transition, but completely unavoidable in life and also part of the rich tapestry that gives life real meaning.
We follow Frances (Greta Gerwig) as she flows through relationships, friendships, employment and homelessness as she tries to establish a career and a life for herself in New York as a dancer. Frances is impulsive, honest and dreamy in her approach to life and her story offers a fresh perspective on the nothingness that is living.
Shot in a broody black and white and sensitively directed by Noah Baumbach, I think a lot of people will sadly overlook this film which would be a damn shame because it's message is so unique.
FINAL SAY: I like things that look like mistakes.
3 Chilli peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running: 86 mins
You aren't going to really like anyone all that much in this movie. You aren't going to be blown away with a rich and intriguing story line. And you aren't going to be changed emotionally by seeing this movie; and that is because this film is not setting out to do those things.
Frances Ha is a movie about the unbearable lightness of being, about everyday people - most of whom are pretty annoying and self involved. It's about the shitty everyday stuff that happens, mostly of little consequence and mostly in transition, but completely unavoidable in life and also part of the rich tapestry that gives life real meaning.
We follow Frances (Greta Gerwig) as she flows through relationships, friendships, employment and homelessness as she tries to establish a career and a life for herself in New York as a dancer. Frances is impulsive, honest and dreamy in her approach to life and her story offers a fresh perspective on the nothingness that is living.
Shot in a broody black and white and sensitively directed by Noah Baumbach, I think a lot of people will sadly overlook this film which would be a damn shame because it's message is so unique.
FINAL SAY: I like things that look like mistakes.
3 Chilli peppers
BLANCANIEVES
Release Date: 2012
Rating: M
Running Time: 104 mins
Director Pablo Berger brings together all of the beauty of silent film and stunning cinematography in this visual delight Blancanieves. Filmed in moody black and white, this is an original and interesting twist on the Grim Brothers fairy tale Snow White.
Set in 1920's Spain, we follow the unfortunate life of Carmen as she goes through a series of adventures, mostly harrowing, which ultimately lead her to fulfill her destiny and follow in her bullfighting father's footsteps.
The evil step mother takes on a ghoulish and even more sinister role, portrayed perfectly by Maribel Verdu; the dwarves are an adorable mish-mash of theatrical bull fighters and Carmen's father is given great depth by Daniel Gimenez Cacho.
This is an artful and beautifully executed piece in every way, a visual masterpiece and one to put on your must see list.
FINAL SAY: Silent beauty.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: M
Running Time: 104 mins
Director Pablo Berger brings together all of the beauty of silent film and stunning cinematography in this visual delight Blancanieves. Filmed in moody black and white, this is an original and interesting twist on the Grim Brothers fairy tale Snow White.
Set in 1920's Spain, we follow the unfortunate life of Carmen as she goes through a series of adventures, mostly harrowing, which ultimately lead her to fulfill her destiny and follow in her bullfighting father's footsteps.
The evil step mother takes on a ghoulish and even more sinister role, portrayed perfectly by Maribel Verdu; the dwarves are an adorable mish-mash of theatrical bull fighters and Carmen's father is given great depth by Daniel Gimenez Cacho.
This is an artful and beautifully executed piece in every way, a visual masterpiece and one to put on your must see list.
FINAL SAY: Silent beauty.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED
Release Date: 2012
Rating: M
Running Time: 86 mins
An indie film like no other, Safety Not Guaranteed threw me off guard with its quirky and simplistic intrigue. Directed by Colin Trevorrow, this movie was inspired by a gag classified ad that ran in Blackwood Home Magazine in 1997.
Three young magazine employees head out on a very strange assignment to interview a mysterious man who placed a classified advertisement seeking a companion to time travel with.
Aubrey Plaza and Mark Duplass really make this movie work with their incredible delivery. Mark Duplass always manages to deliver weird so well and Plaza's disinterested demeanour is what has made her a household name, together they are fabulous here. Jake Johnsson and Karan Soni also offer terrific support, and without even meaning to, you will find yourself getting swept along with this nutty plot and its crazy characters as the movie progresses.
Overall, it's quite good fun.
FINAL SAY: This is not a joke. You'll get paid after we get back. Must bring your own weapons.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: M
Running Time: 86 mins
An indie film like no other, Safety Not Guaranteed threw me off guard with its quirky and simplistic intrigue. Directed by Colin Trevorrow, this movie was inspired by a gag classified ad that ran in Blackwood Home Magazine in 1997.
Three young magazine employees head out on a very strange assignment to interview a mysterious man who placed a classified advertisement seeking a companion to time travel with.
Aubrey Plaza and Mark Duplass really make this movie work with their incredible delivery. Mark Duplass always manages to deliver weird so well and Plaza's disinterested demeanour is what has made her a household name, together they are fabulous here. Jake Johnsson and Karan Soni also offer terrific support, and without even meaning to, you will find yourself getting swept along with this nutty plot and its crazy characters as the movie progresses.
Overall, it's quite good fun.
FINAL SAY: This is not a joke. You'll get paid after we get back. Must bring your own weapons.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE ANGEL'S SHARE
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 101 mins
The Angel's Share is a sweet Scottish drama, directed by Ken Loach, telling the story of a Glaswegian thug who decides that he wants to turn his life around after he becomes a father. The movie gains it's title from the portion of a whiskey's volume that is lost due to evaporation during the aging process in oak barrels, which I thought was an apt and clever title.
Four friends who are performing community service for their crimes, become interested in whiskey after touring a distillery. Robbie (Paul Brannigan) sees an opportunity to change his thug life and become a proper father to his newborn son.
From very dark beginnings, this movie takes a welcomed turn to a brighter and more hopeful story line. I was personally fascinated with the whiskey tastings and tours, being a huge fan of whiskey myself, and although the Scottish accents are at times extremely heavy and tricky to decipher, this movie is a shiny little gem, lost amid the big names, but very deserving of your time.
FINAL SAY: One to keep, one to sell and one to drink with my friends.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 101 mins
The Angel's Share is a sweet Scottish drama, directed by Ken Loach, telling the story of a Glaswegian thug who decides that he wants to turn his life around after he becomes a father. The movie gains it's title from the portion of a whiskey's volume that is lost due to evaporation during the aging process in oak barrels, which I thought was an apt and clever title.
Four friends who are performing community service for their crimes, become interested in whiskey after touring a distillery. Robbie (Paul Brannigan) sees an opportunity to change his thug life and become a proper father to his newborn son.
From very dark beginnings, this movie takes a welcomed turn to a brighter and more hopeful story line. I was personally fascinated with the whiskey tastings and tours, being a huge fan of whiskey myself, and although the Scottish accents are at times extremely heavy and tricky to decipher, this movie is a shiny little gem, lost amid the big names, but very deserving of your time.
FINAL SAY: One to keep, one to sell and one to drink with my friends.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
WADJDA
Release Date: 2012
Rating: PG
Running Time: 98 mins
This is the first feature length movie that has been shot entirely in Saudi Arabia, and the first feature length film to have ever been made by a female Saudi director - Haifaa al-Mansour. Wadjda won numerous awards at international film festivals and was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 86th Academy Awards and the BAFTA Awards.
The story revolves around Wadjda, an 11 year old Saudi girl who dreams of owning her own bicycle. But riding bikes is frowned upon for girls, and her mother is constantly distracted by her husband who is planning to take a second wife, so Wadjda plans to win the money for herself by competing in a Quran recital competition.
This is a beautiful story about the power of the human spirit. Through the eyes of the director we also get small glimpses of the everyday hardships that the women in Saudi Arabia face on a day to day basis; presented in a matter of fact and non judgmental way that works incredibly well.
If only there were more determined girls like Wadjda in Saudi Arabia then maybe there would be more freedoms and less limitations for the women, and this movie beautifully illustrates how something as simple as a bicycle can be so empowering.
FINAL SAY: I will get a bike, and then I will beat you in a race.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: PG
Running Time: 98 mins
This is the first feature length movie that has been shot entirely in Saudi Arabia, and the first feature length film to have ever been made by a female Saudi director - Haifaa al-Mansour. Wadjda won numerous awards at international film festivals and was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 86th Academy Awards and the BAFTA Awards.
The story revolves around Wadjda, an 11 year old Saudi girl who dreams of owning her own bicycle. But riding bikes is frowned upon for girls, and her mother is constantly distracted by her husband who is planning to take a second wife, so Wadjda plans to win the money for herself by competing in a Quran recital competition.
This is a beautiful story about the power of the human spirit. Through the eyes of the director we also get small glimpses of the everyday hardships that the women in Saudi Arabia face on a day to day basis; presented in a matter of fact and non judgmental way that works incredibly well.
If only there were more determined girls like Wadjda in Saudi Arabia then maybe there would be more freedoms and less limitations for the women, and this movie beautifully illustrates how something as simple as a bicycle can be so empowering.
FINAL SAY: I will get a bike, and then I will beat you in a race.
3 Chilli Peppers
INTOUCHABLES
Release Date: 2011
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 112 mins
This French drama-comedy directed by Olivier Nakache and Eric Toledano became the second biggest box office success in France, and soon made it's way into the hearts of millions across the globe for its powerful story about friendship.
Phillipe is a wealthy, intellectual and unhappy quadriplegic that is looking for a carer. He happens across the charismatic and street smart Driss in an interview and decides to give him a chance. After a short trial period, Phillipe and Driss become fast friends and Driss teaches Phillipe that there are still things in this world worth living for.
I think that the reason that people loved this movie so much was because it gave the audience permission to laugh with, not at, people with disabilities and see there lives in a new and intimate light. I liked the banter and antics between the two protagonists as they engaged in their newly found bromance, the interactions felt unforced and quite natural.
I enjoyed this movie immensely, it's really touching and humorous stuff.
FINAL SAY: We listened to your classics, now it's time to listen to mine.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 112 mins
This French drama-comedy directed by Olivier Nakache and Eric Toledano became the second biggest box office success in France, and soon made it's way into the hearts of millions across the globe for its powerful story about friendship.
Phillipe is a wealthy, intellectual and unhappy quadriplegic that is looking for a carer. He happens across the charismatic and street smart Driss in an interview and decides to give him a chance. After a short trial period, Phillipe and Driss become fast friends and Driss teaches Phillipe that there are still things in this world worth living for.
I think that the reason that people loved this movie so much was because it gave the audience permission to laugh with, not at, people with disabilities and see there lives in a new and intimate light. I liked the banter and antics between the two protagonists as they engaged in their newly found bromance, the interactions felt unforced and quite natural.
I enjoyed this movie immensely, it's really touching and humorous stuff.
FINAL SAY: We listened to your classics, now it's time to listen to mine.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
CARNAGE
Release Date: 2011
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 80 mins
When two sets of parents meet in a Brooklyn apartment to discuss the fight that their eleven year old boys had in the park, things go from civilized to downright manic rapidly.
Directed by Roman Polanski, this black-comedy is based on the Tony Award winning play God of Carnage by French playwright Yasmina Reza. A stellar cast that includes Jodie Foster, Kate Winslet, Christoph Waltz and John C. Reilly really bring together all of the ugliness and viciousness of couples with children, played out in real time.
No stone is left unturned as these four adults go head to head with each other with increasing levels of ferocity; displaying more childish behaviours than the children that they are meant to be discussing. All is stripped bare in this interesting and at times hilarious character study.
FINAL SAY: Keep on stroking your ego. It's beautiful.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 80 mins
When two sets of parents meet in a Brooklyn apartment to discuss the fight that their eleven year old boys had in the park, things go from civilized to downright manic rapidly.
Directed by Roman Polanski, this black-comedy is based on the Tony Award winning play God of Carnage by French playwright Yasmina Reza. A stellar cast that includes Jodie Foster, Kate Winslet, Christoph Waltz and John C. Reilly really bring together all of the ugliness and viciousness of couples with children, played out in real time.
No stone is left unturned as these four adults go head to head with each other with increasing levels of ferocity; displaying more childish behaviours than the children that they are meant to be discussing. All is stripped bare in this interesting and at times hilarious character study.
FINAL SAY: Keep on stroking your ego. It's beautiful.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE ARTIST
Release Date: 2011
Rating: PG
Running Time: 100 mins
A silent black and white film may seem like a step backwards for some viewers, but this movie is an extraordinary cinematic experience, not just another movie at all. Although this is an age old tale of the apprentice overtaking the craftsman; it has been juiced up with twists of romance and dark demise to keep viewers engaged.
Set in 1927 we see George Valentin - King of the Silent Screen, entertaining audiences and falling for starlet wannabe Peppy. But as silent film falls to the rise of talking movies, George struggles to find work and a reason to go on with life when Peppy soon rises to fame upon the ashes of his own ruined career.
Jean Dujardin is outstanding as George, portraying his downward spiral perfectly and really adding great depth to George with his extremely emotive face. The Artist is riveting and darkly beautiful to watch; a definite winner in my books.
FINAL SAY: Silence is golden.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: PG
Running Time: 100 mins
A silent black and white film may seem like a step backwards for some viewers, but this movie is an extraordinary cinematic experience, not just another movie at all. Although this is an age old tale of the apprentice overtaking the craftsman; it has been juiced up with twists of romance and dark demise to keep viewers engaged.
Set in 1927 we see George Valentin - King of the Silent Screen, entertaining audiences and falling for starlet wannabe Peppy. But as silent film falls to the rise of talking movies, George struggles to find work and a reason to go on with life when Peppy soon rises to fame upon the ashes of his own ruined career.
Jean Dujardin is outstanding as George, portraying his downward spiral perfectly and really adding great depth to George with his extremely emotive face. The Artist is riveting and darkly beautiful to watch; a definite winner in my books.
FINAL SAY: Silence is golden.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE SKIN I LIVE IN
Release Date: 2011
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 120 mins
A Spanish psychological thriller, written and directed by Pedro Almodóvar. Almodóvar has described the film as "a horror story without screams or frights" which is an accurate description. Although The Skin I Live In can't really be regarded as horror, there are certainly plenty of horrific goings on that will seriously mess with your head.
A regarded plastic surgeon that is plagued by misfortune, creates a wonderful new type of skin that is impervious to damage. His human guinea pig and private obsession is a woman named Vera, a mysterious beauty that resides as a prisoner in his house.
Antonio Banderas does a brilliant job of portraying the Dr. Frankenstein like surgeon Ledgard, and Elena Anaya is painfully beautiful as his subject, Vera. This movie has all of the elements of a great psychological thriller; devious plot twists, intensely interesting and esoteric characters and plenty of back story. However, because it crosses so many lines it also induces disgust and revulsion, albeit in the most stylish fashion, and for that reason it will not be to everyone's liking. If you can handle the kink levels turned up to high pitch, then you should enjoy the ride.
FINAL SAY: I breathe. I breathe. I breathe.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 120 mins
A Spanish psychological thriller, written and directed by Pedro Almodóvar. Almodóvar has described the film as "a horror story without screams or frights" which is an accurate description. Although The Skin I Live In can't really be regarded as horror, there are certainly plenty of horrific goings on that will seriously mess with your head.
A regarded plastic surgeon that is plagued by misfortune, creates a wonderful new type of skin that is impervious to damage. His human guinea pig and private obsession is a woman named Vera, a mysterious beauty that resides as a prisoner in his house.
Antonio Banderas does a brilliant job of portraying the Dr. Frankenstein like surgeon Ledgard, and Elena Anaya is painfully beautiful as his subject, Vera. This movie has all of the elements of a great psychological thriller; devious plot twists, intensely interesting and esoteric characters and plenty of back story. However, because it crosses so many lines it also induces disgust and revulsion, albeit in the most stylish fashion, and for that reason it will not be to everyone's liking. If you can handle the kink levels turned up to high pitch, then you should enjoy the ride.
FINAL SAY: I breathe. I breathe. I breathe.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE GIANTS
Release Date: 2011
Rating: M
Running Time: 84 mins
A french language film that beautifully illustrates the pitfalls of coming of age without any adult supervision. Set against the sprawling landscape of a lush Belgian countryside, this is a movie of true contrasts. Among the gorgeous landscape are some of the most decrepit homesteads imaginable; perfectly mirroring the contrasting emotions and characters that are scattered throughout this film.
Teenage brothers Zak and Seth are left to fend for themselves over the summer by their neglectful mother. They befriend a teen named Danny that has unfortunate ties to local drug dealer through his abusive older brother. Without any adult supervision, the boys start to make decisions that they clearly aren't ready for.
This is a perfectly realized coming of age tale that really showcases all of the wild abandon of teenagers, but also the desperate need for adult appreciation, approval and acceptance. It is actually quite heart breaking at times, and I certainly felt quite moved by the fantastic child actors and their passionate portrayals.
FINAL SAY: Lose yourself down river.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: M
Running Time: 84 mins
A french language film that beautifully illustrates the pitfalls of coming of age without any adult supervision. Set against the sprawling landscape of a lush Belgian countryside, this is a movie of true contrasts. Among the gorgeous landscape are some of the most decrepit homesteads imaginable; perfectly mirroring the contrasting emotions and characters that are scattered throughout this film.
Teenage brothers Zak and Seth are left to fend for themselves over the summer by their neglectful mother. They befriend a teen named Danny that has unfortunate ties to local drug dealer through his abusive older brother. Without any adult supervision, the boys start to make decisions that they clearly aren't ready for.
This is a perfectly realized coming of age tale that really showcases all of the wild abandon of teenagers, but also the desperate need for adult appreciation, approval and acceptance. It is actually quite heart breaking at times, and I certainly felt quite moved by the fantastic child actors and their passionate portrayals.
FINAL SAY: Lose yourself down river.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
BOY
Release Date: 2010
Rating: M
Running Time: 87 mins
Written and directed by Taika Waititi, Boy is a New Zealand coming-of-age comedy-drama, nominated for a Grand Jury Prize at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival, it went on to become the highest grossing New Zealand film of all time at the local box office. With it's quirky style of comedy and darling child actors, Boy is sure to win a place in your heart.
It's 1984 and eleven year old Boy, who is a devout Michael Jackson fan, is looking forward to the opportunity to get his know his estranged father. However, his father who has the parenting abilities of an unruly teenager, has only returned to searched for a bag of money that he buried on the home property some years ago.
This film has been cast brilliantly, James Rolleston is perfectly cast as the colourful and imaginative character Boy, and Waititi does a fabulous job of being an irresponsible and pathetic role model for his two adoring sons. As much as I laughed, I cringed, because this is not only funny, but also truly poignant, touching and deeply moving cinema, delivered in a refreshingly new and artistic way.
FINAL SAY: Wanna see some Michael Jackson dance moves?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2010
Rating: M
Running Time: 87 mins
Written and directed by Taika Waititi, Boy is a New Zealand coming-of-age comedy-drama, nominated for a Grand Jury Prize at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival, it went on to become the highest grossing New Zealand film of all time at the local box office. With it's quirky style of comedy and darling child actors, Boy is sure to win a place in your heart.
It's 1984 and eleven year old Boy, who is a devout Michael Jackson fan, is looking forward to the opportunity to get his know his estranged father. However, his father who has the parenting abilities of an unruly teenager, has only returned to searched for a bag of money that he buried on the home property some years ago.
This film has been cast brilliantly, James Rolleston is perfectly cast as the colourful and imaginative character Boy, and Waititi does a fabulous job of being an irresponsible and pathetic role model for his two adoring sons. As much as I laughed, I cringed, because this is not only funny, but also truly poignant, touching and deeply moving cinema, delivered in a refreshingly new and artistic way.
FINAL SAY: Wanna see some Michael Jackson dance moves?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
SOMEWHERE
Release Date: 2010
Rating: M
Running Time: 97 mins
Another thoughtfully written and directed movie from Sofia Coppola, galvanizing her ability and her eye for quality cinema that explores relationships in new and yet more realistic ways. Somewhere won the Golden Lion Award at the 67th Venice Film Awards for Best Picture and explores a father-daughter relationship within the circuit of the rich and famous.
Eleven year old Cleo (Elle Fanning) is staying with her father Johnny (Stephen Dorff)at the Chateau Marmont for a while. But Johnny is suffering from an existential crisis, where in spite of his money, fame and ability to indulge in whatever takes his fancy, he still feels even more unfulfilled and detached.
This is easily the best that I have ever seen from Stephen Dorff, and Elle Fanning just shines as the aware and charming child figure, clearly portraying a more grounded and enigmatic personality than her father. Somewhere is pure character study, there isn't much of a story going on, just a series of events and interludes, but that was one of the things that I enjoyed most about the movie, it had a realistic edge to it.
FINAL SAY: Life isn't always going somewhere, sometimes it goes nowhere at all.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2010
Rating: M
Running Time: 97 mins
Another thoughtfully written and directed movie from Sofia Coppola, galvanizing her ability and her eye for quality cinema that explores relationships in new and yet more realistic ways. Somewhere won the Golden Lion Award at the 67th Venice Film Awards for Best Picture and explores a father-daughter relationship within the circuit of the rich and famous.
Eleven year old Cleo (Elle Fanning) is staying with her father Johnny (Stephen Dorff)at the Chateau Marmont for a while. But Johnny is suffering from an existential crisis, where in spite of his money, fame and ability to indulge in whatever takes his fancy, he still feels even more unfulfilled and detached.
This is easily the best that I have ever seen from Stephen Dorff, and Elle Fanning just shines as the aware and charming child figure, clearly portraying a more grounded and enigmatic personality than her father. Somewhere is pure character study, there isn't much of a story going on, just a series of events and interludes, but that was one of the things that I enjoyed most about the movie, it had a realistic edge to it.
FINAL SAY: Life isn't always going somewhere, sometimes it goes nowhere at all.
4 Chilli Peppers
MARY AND MAX
Release Date: 2009
Rating: M
Running Time: 94 mins
A beautifully composed and lovingly crafted Australian, stop motion animation, written and directed by Adam Elliot. This is one of those films that sticks with you, because it is both wonderful and harrowing in so many ways. The film deals with a range of different themes including Asperger's Syndrome, childhood neglect, depression and anxiety; tying them altogether in a tale about an unlikely and enduring friendship.
Mary Daisy Dinkle is a lonely and neglected eight year old from Mount Waverley, Australia. Daisy is desperate for a friend, so she randomly chooses the name Max Horowitz from a telephone book and writes him a letter asking if he would like to be her pen pal. Max is an obese, autistic, 44 year old man that is both challenged and engaged by Daisy's letter, and a life long pen friendship begins.
Philip Seymour Hoffman, Toni Colette, Eric Bana and Barry Humphries all lend their voices to the cause, and the overall effect is brilliantly affecting. This film deserved far more attention than it received, so if you haven't seen it yet yourself, then I suggest you do soon.
FINAL SAY: You are my best friend, you are my only friend.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2009
Rating: M
Running Time: 94 mins
A beautifully composed and lovingly crafted Australian, stop motion animation, written and directed by Adam Elliot. This is one of those films that sticks with you, because it is both wonderful and harrowing in so many ways. The film deals with a range of different themes including Asperger's Syndrome, childhood neglect, depression and anxiety; tying them altogether in a tale about an unlikely and enduring friendship.
Mary Daisy Dinkle is a lonely and neglected eight year old from Mount Waverley, Australia. Daisy is desperate for a friend, so she randomly chooses the name Max Horowitz from a telephone book and writes him a letter asking if he would like to be her pen pal. Max is an obese, autistic, 44 year old man that is both challenged and engaged by Daisy's letter, and a life long pen friendship begins.
Philip Seymour Hoffman, Toni Colette, Eric Bana and Barry Humphries all lend their voices to the cause, and the overall effect is brilliantly affecting. This film deserved far more attention than it received, so if you haven't seen it yet yourself, then I suggest you do soon.
FINAL SAY: You are my best friend, you are my only friend.
4 Chilli Peppers
BRONSON
Release Date: 2008
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 92 mins
A fictionalised biographical drama co-written and directed by Nicholas Winding Refn that blurs the lines between humour and horror with it's fast paced, slick and psychological style.
Outlining the life of notorious prisoner Michael Gordon Peterson, aka Bronson; who has spent almost his entire adult life behind bars and most of that in solitary confinement.
Tom Hardy is jaw-dropping as Bronson, this is easily the best that I have seen from him and the role truly galvanized his abilities as an actor. The insane facial expressions, the tremendous demonstrations of brute force and the sense of impending doom will entertain and disturb you from start to end.
FINAL SAY: You shouldn't mess with boys that are bigger than you.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2008
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 92 mins
A fictionalised biographical drama co-written and directed by Nicholas Winding Refn that blurs the lines between humour and horror with it's fast paced, slick and psychological style.
Outlining the life of notorious prisoner Michael Gordon Peterson, aka Bronson; who has spent almost his entire adult life behind bars and most of that in solitary confinement.
Tom Hardy is jaw-dropping as Bronson, this is easily the best that I have seen from him and the role truly galvanized his abilities as an actor. The insane facial expressions, the tremendous demonstrations of brute force and the sense of impending doom will entertain and disturb you from start to end.
FINAL SAY: You shouldn't mess with boys that are bigger than you.
4 Chilli Peppers
DEPARTURES
Release Date: 2008
Rating: M
Running Time: 130 mins
A Japanese drama directed by Yojiro Takita and, in 2009, the first Japanese production to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, Departures is a beautiful film in every respect. With it's touching depictions of relationships and the struggles we have to accept death as an inevitable part of life, Departures is both a meditation and celebration of the transience and beauty of life.
Young cellist Daigo moves himself and his young wife back to his home town after he loses his job in Tokyo when his orchestra disbands. Disillusioned and desperate for work, Daigo applies for a job at a firm called NK Agent Office that claims to assist departures. Thinking that he will be working in travel, Daigo applies and is bewildered when he learns that NK actually deals with the dead, specifically with preparing bodies for cremation in a ceremony called encoffinment. As the months pass, Daigo find that he has a natural skill for the role, much to everyone's horror, and that the job allows him to reconnect with his past and renew his respect for the life that he has been given.
Touching is an understatement, this movie will move you so deeply that you may find yourself crying more than once throughout the film, and although the topic of death may seem sombre, this film is actually incredibly uplifting and extremely life affirming. It's a delightful ride from start to end, make sure you don't miss this one.
FINAL SAY: Fate brought you here.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2008
Rating: M
Running Time: 130 mins
A Japanese drama directed by Yojiro Takita and, in 2009, the first Japanese production to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, Departures is a beautiful film in every respect. With it's touching depictions of relationships and the struggles we have to accept death as an inevitable part of life, Departures is both a meditation and celebration of the transience and beauty of life.
Young cellist Daigo moves himself and his young wife back to his home town after he loses his job in Tokyo when his orchestra disbands. Disillusioned and desperate for work, Daigo applies for a job at a firm called NK Agent Office that claims to assist departures. Thinking that he will be working in travel, Daigo applies and is bewildered when he learns that NK actually deals with the dead, specifically with preparing bodies for cremation in a ceremony called encoffinment. As the months pass, Daigo find that he has a natural skill for the role, much to everyone's horror, and that the job allows him to reconnect with his past and renew his respect for the life that he has been given.
Touching is an understatement, this movie will move you so deeply that you may find yourself crying more than once throughout the film, and although the topic of death may seem sombre, this film is actually incredibly uplifting and extremely life affirming. It's a delightful ride from start to end, make sure you don't miss this one.
FINAL SAY: Fate brought you here.
4 Chilli Peppers
SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET
Release Date: 2007
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 116 mins
My favourite of all Tim Burton's offerings, and a spectacular Gothic-horror musical of epic proportions. Adapted from the Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler's Tony award winning musical of the same name, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street was met with unanimously positive reviews and enjoyed over 30 awards for it's dynamic and dark style.
This Victorian melodrama tells the tale of Sweeney Todd (Johnny Depp), an English barber that returns to London to seek his revenge upon the evil Judge Turpin (Alan Rickman). His lust for vengeance turns him quite mad and he ends up becoming a serial killer, systematically slitting the throats of all that come in for a shave with his straight razors. His accomplice, Mrs Lovett (Helena Bonham-Carter) aids him in the disposal of the corpses, by mincing them up, putting them into pies and selling them to the public of London.
This is a masterful tale of macabre and madness, as beautifully haunting as it is terribly disturbing. The cast are absolutely sensational, singing and acting their hearts out. The sets are bleak and morbidly depressing, a perfect setting for such a truly horrible tale, and the music is incredible. I can't say a bad thing about this film, I absolutely loved it, and as long you aren't too squeamish, you will too.
FINAL SAY: Best pies in all of London.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2007
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 116 mins
My favourite of all Tim Burton's offerings, and a spectacular Gothic-horror musical of epic proportions. Adapted from the Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler's Tony award winning musical of the same name, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street was met with unanimously positive reviews and enjoyed over 30 awards for it's dynamic and dark style.
This Victorian melodrama tells the tale of Sweeney Todd (Johnny Depp), an English barber that returns to London to seek his revenge upon the evil Judge Turpin (Alan Rickman). His lust for vengeance turns him quite mad and he ends up becoming a serial killer, systematically slitting the throats of all that come in for a shave with his straight razors. His accomplice, Mrs Lovett (Helena Bonham-Carter) aids him in the disposal of the corpses, by mincing them up, putting them into pies and selling them to the public of London.
This is a masterful tale of macabre and madness, as beautifully haunting as it is terribly disturbing. The cast are absolutely sensational, singing and acting their hearts out. The sets are bleak and morbidly depressing, a perfect setting for such a truly horrible tale, and the music is incredible. I can't say a bad thing about this film, I absolutely loved it, and as long you aren't too squeamish, you will too.
FINAL SAY: Best pies in all of London.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
PERSEPOLIS
Release Date: 2007
Rating: M
Running Time: 96 mins
An Iranian-French-American animated movie based on Marjane Satrapi's autobiographical graphic novel of the same name. After tying for the Jury Prize at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival, writer and director Marjane Satrapi said in her acceptance speech "Although this film is universal, I wish to dedicate the prize to all Iranians." Satrapi's story reached a wide audience, educating the masses about the Iranian revolution, touching people's hearts and creating waves of controversy as well.
Persepolis is essentially a coming of age story about an outspoken and unique Iranian girl named Marjane. Marjane grows up amidst the Islamic revolution and is eventually sent away by her family to make a better life for herself in Vienna.
Produced in moody black and white, and delivered with highly stylized visual flair, this film works on so many levels. Marjane is really no different than any other teenager trying to find their way in the world, she just happens to have seen a lot more brutality and inequality in her time. This is certainly no fairy tale, but it is hopeful, and there is a great deal of clarity to be gleaned about the realities of the Islamic revolution from this beautifully presented political drama.
FINAL SAY: Never forget who you are and where you're from.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2007
Rating: M
Running Time: 96 mins
An Iranian-French-American animated movie based on Marjane Satrapi's autobiographical graphic novel of the same name. After tying for the Jury Prize at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival, writer and director Marjane Satrapi said in her acceptance speech "Although this film is universal, I wish to dedicate the prize to all Iranians." Satrapi's story reached a wide audience, educating the masses about the Iranian revolution, touching people's hearts and creating waves of controversy as well.
Persepolis is essentially a coming of age story about an outspoken and unique Iranian girl named Marjane. Marjane grows up amidst the Islamic revolution and is eventually sent away by her family to make a better life for herself in Vienna.
Produced in moody black and white, and delivered with highly stylized visual flair, this film works on so many levels. Marjane is really no different than any other teenager trying to find their way in the world, she just happens to have seen a lot more brutality and inequality in her time. This is certainly no fairy tale, but it is hopeful, and there is a great deal of clarity to be gleaned about the realities of the Islamic revolution from this beautifully presented political drama.
FINAL SAY: Never forget who you are and where you're from.
4 Chilli Peppers
LARS AND THE REAL GIRL
Release Date: 2007
Rating: PG
Running Time: 106 mins
Painfully shy Lars (Ryan Gosling) finds it very difficult to make friends or get a date in his small town. He surprises everyone when he announces that he has met a girl online and she is coming to meet him soon. His delighted family and friends are truly shocked when Lars' new girlfriend turns out to be a life sized plastic woman, that he names Bianca and forms a meaningful relationship with.
Written by Nancy Oliver and directed by Craig Gillespie, this a sweet, quirky and completely socially awkward film that really won a place in my heart. The way that Lars and Bianca's relationship has a profound effect on the entire town is fabulous, there is sense of sincerity and purity to this film that really reaches out and touches you.
Ryan Gosling is at his absolute best, completely unrecognisable as the well meaning wierdo Lars, showcasing some true range and genuine ability as an actor.
FINAL SAY: They're not real, so they'll last forever.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2007
Rating: PG
Running Time: 106 mins
Painfully shy Lars (Ryan Gosling) finds it very difficult to make friends or get a date in his small town. He surprises everyone when he announces that he has met a girl online and she is coming to meet him soon. His delighted family and friends are truly shocked when Lars' new girlfriend turns out to be a life sized plastic woman, that he names Bianca and forms a meaningful relationship with.
Written by Nancy Oliver and directed by Craig Gillespie, this a sweet, quirky and completely socially awkward film that really won a place in my heart. The way that Lars and Bianca's relationship has a profound effect on the entire town is fabulous, there is sense of sincerity and purity to this film that really reaches out and touches you.
Ryan Gosling is at his absolute best, completely unrecognisable as the well meaning wierdo Lars, showcasing some true range and genuine ability as an actor.
FINAL SAY: They're not real, so they'll last forever.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE KITE RUNNER
Release Date: 2007
Rating: M
Running Time: 128 mins
Based on the novel by Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner tells the story of Amir, a wealthy boy being raised in Kabul by his widowed and influential father. His childhood best friend Hassan is the son of their Hazara servant Ali, but this makes little difference to the strength of their friendship. After a particularly successful kite flying competition, Hassan goes out to kite run for Amir, and is attacked by a group of local thugs. Amir witnesses the attack and cannot deal with the guilt of doing nothing, and ends up abandoning his friend. Years later, Amir who is now an American citizen, is called on by his old servant Ali to learn the truths of his childhood and to set things right.
I really enjoyed the historical and political significance of this film, which outlined the fall the Afghanistan Monarchy to Russia and eventually the atrocities of the Taliban reign of intimidation and destruction within the country. The child actors (Ahmad Khan Mahmoodzada and Zekeria Ebrahimi) were good, and the scenes of the boys early lives were easily my favourite of the film. My only problem with the movie was that it reeked of ridiculous unlikely-hoods and somewhat pointless sentimentality, giving the whole thing a rather fabricated and forced feeling, which was really disappointing because this story had the potential to be fantastic. None-the-less, I was still engaged up until the end, and I did get a lot of enjoyment from the sweetness of their friendship.
FINAL SAY: For you, a thousand times over.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2007
Rating: M
Running Time: 128 mins
Based on the novel by Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner tells the story of Amir, a wealthy boy being raised in Kabul by his widowed and influential father. His childhood best friend Hassan is the son of their Hazara servant Ali, but this makes little difference to the strength of their friendship. After a particularly successful kite flying competition, Hassan goes out to kite run for Amir, and is attacked by a group of local thugs. Amir witnesses the attack and cannot deal with the guilt of doing nothing, and ends up abandoning his friend. Years later, Amir who is now an American citizen, is called on by his old servant Ali to learn the truths of his childhood and to set things right.
I really enjoyed the historical and political significance of this film, which outlined the fall the Afghanistan Monarchy to Russia and eventually the atrocities of the Taliban reign of intimidation and destruction within the country. The child actors (Ahmad Khan Mahmoodzada and Zekeria Ebrahimi) were good, and the scenes of the boys early lives were easily my favourite of the film. My only problem with the movie was that it reeked of ridiculous unlikely-hoods and somewhat pointless sentimentality, giving the whole thing a rather fabricated and forced feeling, which was really disappointing because this story had the potential to be fantastic. None-the-less, I was still engaged up until the end, and I did get a lot of enjoyment from the sweetness of their friendship.
FINAL SAY: For you, a thousand times over.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
ONCE
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 85 mins
An Irish musical written and directed by John Carney that is certain to tug at the heartstrings of anyone that watches it. This completely naturalistic drama stars real life musicians Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova and was shot on a shoestring budget. Once went on to win the 2007 Independent Spirit Award for Best Foreign Film and the song "Falling Slowly" won the 2007 Academy Award for Best Original Song.
A vacuum repairman with dreams of becoming a professional musician, meets a talented Czech pianist and single mother when he is busking on the streets. Together they collaborate and record songs that tell the stories of their own troubled love lives.
This movie is straight up darling, I loved it. I was so touched by the songs and interactions between the two main characters and I especially loved that there was absolutely nothing polished or forced about it.
FINAL SAY: I listen.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 85 mins
An Irish musical written and directed by John Carney that is certain to tug at the heartstrings of anyone that watches it. This completely naturalistic drama stars real life musicians Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova and was shot on a shoestring budget. Once went on to win the 2007 Independent Spirit Award for Best Foreign Film and the song "Falling Slowly" won the 2007 Academy Award for Best Original Song.
A vacuum repairman with dreams of becoming a professional musician, meets a talented Czech pianist and single mother when he is busking on the streets. Together they collaborate and record songs that tell the stories of their own troubled love lives.
This movie is straight up darling, I loved it. I was so touched by the songs and interactions between the two main characters and I especially loved that there was absolutely nothing polished or forced about it.
FINAL SAY: I listen.
4 Chilli Peppers
RUNNING WITH SCISSORS
Release Date: 2006
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 116 mins
Based on the 2002 memoir of American writer Augusten Burroughs, this incredibly deranged tale tells of Augusten's bizarre childhood and the trials that he faced being raised by his chain smoking, prescription drug addicted, aspiring poet mother Deirdre Burroughs.
After Augusten's drunkard father leaves the family home things go from weird to weirder in fast succession, in fact the events in this film are so weird that they defy reality completely. From the eccentric psychiatrist Dr Finch and his insanely dysfunctional family to the rantings of Augusten's clearly unhinged mother, it's difficult to believe that anyone could come out the other end with enough coherence to write their memoir. Exaggerated truth or mainly fiction? Hard to tell but it is entertaining viewing.
Annette Benning is beyond fabulous as Deirdre Burroughs and Brian Cox is stellar as Dr Finch, but a strong supporting cast in the form of Joseph Fiennes, Evan Rachel Wood, Gwyneth Paltrow and Alec Baldwin really round out the utter insanity of it all.
FINAL SAY: Look out for the masterbatorium!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 116 mins
Based on the 2002 memoir of American writer Augusten Burroughs, this incredibly deranged tale tells of Augusten's bizarre childhood and the trials that he faced being raised by his chain smoking, prescription drug addicted, aspiring poet mother Deirdre Burroughs.
After Augusten's drunkard father leaves the family home things go from weird to weirder in fast succession, in fact the events in this film are so weird that they defy reality completely. From the eccentric psychiatrist Dr Finch and his insanely dysfunctional family to the rantings of Augusten's clearly unhinged mother, it's difficult to believe that anyone could come out the other end with enough coherence to write their memoir. Exaggerated truth or mainly fiction? Hard to tell but it is entertaining viewing.
Annette Benning is beyond fabulous as Deirdre Burroughs and Brian Cox is stellar as Dr Finch, but a strong supporting cast in the form of Joseph Fiennes, Evan Rachel Wood, Gwyneth Paltrow and Alec Baldwin really round out the utter insanity of it all.
FINAL SAY: Look out for the masterbatorium!
3 Chilli Peppers
MARIE ANTOINETTE
Release Date: 2006
Rating: M
Running Time: 123 mins
Written and directed by Sofia Coppola, this period drama is based on the life and times of Marie Antoinette, leading up to the French Revolution. It won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design, and gained a lot of attention for it's funky new wave soundtrack and lavish imagery.
An Austrian teenager (Kirsten Dunst) must leave her home to embark on an arranged marriage to the Dauphin (Jason Schwartzman) of France. She goes on to become the Queen of France, and a symbol of extreme extravagance during the 18th century. She meets her demise during the French Revolution of 1789, when she is stripped of her title, imprisoned and finally beheaded by her own subjects.
This is a decadent romp, illustriously realised and slathered with lush finery beyond all compare. Visually this is a real delight, Dunst plays her role of the young Queen with great energy and a confectionery-like beauty; perfectly portraying a woman that had the world at her feet, but was desperately lonely. The back drop of Versailles just adds another layer of icing to an already insanely over-decorated cake, and the overall polish is a pastel goth's dream. I especially enjoyed the mixture of historical story and modern music, which I thought was a clever and somewhat whimsical addition.
FINAL SAY: Let them eat cake.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: M
Running Time: 123 mins
Written and directed by Sofia Coppola, this period drama is based on the life and times of Marie Antoinette, leading up to the French Revolution. It won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design, and gained a lot of attention for it's funky new wave soundtrack and lavish imagery.
An Austrian teenager (Kirsten Dunst) must leave her home to embark on an arranged marriage to the Dauphin (Jason Schwartzman) of France. She goes on to become the Queen of France, and a symbol of extreme extravagance during the 18th century. She meets her demise during the French Revolution of 1789, when she is stripped of her title, imprisoned and finally beheaded by her own subjects.
This is a decadent romp, illustriously realised and slathered with lush finery beyond all compare. Visually this is a real delight, Dunst plays her role of the young Queen with great energy and a confectionery-like beauty; perfectly portraying a woman that had the world at her feet, but was desperately lonely. The back drop of Versailles just adds another layer of icing to an already insanely over-decorated cake, and the overall polish is a pastel goth's dream. I especially enjoyed the mixture of historical story and modern music, which I thought was a clever and somewhat whimsical addition.
FINAL SAY: Let them eat cake.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
AFTER THE WEDDING
Release Date: 2006
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
A Danish- Swedish drama directed by Susan Bier that was just pipped at the post for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006 by The Lives of Others. However, please don't let that dissuade you from seeing this, it's an absolute gem of a film that went in so many different directions; most of which I did not anticipate or expect at all.
Jacob Peterson manages an Indian orphanage and the offer of a potential donation of a large sum of money to aid the orphanage is dangled in front of Jacob. However, the CEO of the Danish Corporation offering the donation demands that he must meet Jacob in person, forcing him to leave India and a small child Pramod that he has raised since birth. The trip to Copenhagen delivers far more than a donation and changes Jacob's life forever.
This film is exquisitely and elegantly executed; the writing, acting and casting is on point, and the storyline, as I mentioned earlier, contains many unforeseen twists and for that reason, it delivers something original and fresh. Mads Mikkelsen shines as Jacob and Rolf Lassgard is amazing as the corporate fat cat CEO Jorgen Hansson. Expect the unexpected and enjoy the ride, this is a deeply affecting and intensely human film.
FINAL SAY: Time is precious.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
A Danish- Swedish drama directed by Susan Bier that was just pipped at the post for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006 by The Lives of Others. However, please don't let that dissuade you from seeing this, it's an absolute gem of a film that went in so many different directions; most of which I did not anticipate or expect at all.
Jacob Peterson manages an Indian orphanage and the offer of a potential donation of a large sum of money to aid the orphanage is dangled in front of Jacob. However, the CEO of the Danish Corporation offering the donation demands that he must meet Jacob in person, forcing him to leave India and a small child Pramod that he has raised since birth. The trip to Copenhagen delivers far more than a donation and changes Jacob's life forever.
This film is exquisitely and elegantly executed; the writing, acting and casting is on point, and the storyline, as I mentioned earlier, contains many unforeseen twists and for that reason, it delivers something original and fresh. Mads Mikkelsen shines as Jacob and Rolf Lassgard is amazing as the corporate fat cat CEO Jorgen Hansson. Expect the unexpected and enjoy the ride, this is a deeply affecting and intensely human film.
FINAL SAY: Time is precious.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
BUG
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 102 mins
This movie was nothing like I expected, I was thinking sci-fi, maybe horror, but what I got was a very stylized drama/ thriller. Directed by William Friedkin, known best for his work on The Exorcist, this is a strange journey into the minds and unusual behaviours of two obviously disturbed and damaged individuals.
Agnes is a loner that is just getting by after the disappearance of her son, she meets a strange drifter called Peter and the two connect. Things are looking up for Agnes, that is until the bugs arrive.
Ashley Judd is fabulous as Agnes, this would have to be the best that I have seen from her; and Michael Shannon is the epitome of disturbing in every way, and together they are riveting!
I'm not going to write anymore about this movie because it is one of those 'the less you know about it, the better it is' type of films.
FINAL SAY: What's bugging you?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 102 mins
This movie was nothing like I expected, I was thinking sci-fi, maybe horror, but what I got was a very stylized drama/ thriller. Directed by William Friedkin, known best for his work on The Exorcist, this is a strange journey into the minds and unusual behaviours of two obviously disturbed and damaged individuals.
Agnes is a loner that is just getting by after the disappearance of her son, she meets a strange drifter called Peter and the two connect. Things are looking up for Agnes, that is until the bugs arrive.
Ashley Judd is fabulous as Agnes, this would have to be the best that I have seen from her; and Michael Shannon is the epitome of disturbing in every way, and together they are riveting!
I'm not going to write anymore about this movie because it is one of those 'the less you know about it, the better it is' type of films.
FINAL SAY: What's bugging you?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
TSOTSI
Release Date: 2005
Rating: M
Running Time: 94 mins
Adapted from the novel of the same name by Andy Fugard, this South African/UK co-production, directed by Gavin Hood, gained lots of critical acclaim for it's powerful performances and realistic portrayal of a slum in Johannesburg. After winning the 2005 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, Tsotsi quickly became a must see crime drama.
Tsotsi is a young street thug that heads a small gang of wayward teenagers. After a series of violent gang attacks, Tsotsi hijacks a car and ends up getting a lot more than he had bargained for.
This is a really well presented movie that offers a realistic depiction of the subculture of black Johannesburg criminals. The character of Tsotsi is disturbingly well portrayed by Presley Chweneyagae, whose cold and unemotional stare is completely unnerving to behold. The soundtrack really adds a lot of atmosphere and heart to the overall vibe of the story, which is generally not a very pleasant tale. It is true that at times Tsotsi is upsetting and perhaps even distressing, but it is not too heavy handed or unnecessarily violent, which makes it feel unforced and genuine in its approach.
FINAL SAY: What kind of bastard would break a dogs back?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2005
Rating: M
Running Time: 94 mins
Adapted from the novel of the same name by Andy Fugard, this South African/UK co-production, directed by Gavin Hood, gained lots of critical acclaim for it's powerful performances and realistic portrayal of a slum in Johannesburg. After winning the 2005 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, Tsotsi quickly became a must see crime drama.
Tsotsi is a young street thug that heads a small gang of wayward teenagers. After a series of violent gang attacks, Tsotsi hijacks a car and ends up getting a lot more than he had bargained for.
This is a really well presented movie that offers a realistic depiction of the subculture of black Johannesburg criminals. The character of Tsotsi is disturbingly well portrayed by Presley Chweneyagae, whose cold and unemotional stare is completely unnerving to behold. The soundtrack really adds a lot of atmosphere and heart to the overall vibe of the story, which is generally not a very pleasant tale. It is true that at times Tsotsi is upsetting and perhaps even distressing, but it is not too heavy handed or unnecessarily violent, which makes it feel unforced and genuine in its approach.
FINAL SAY: What kind of bastard would break a dogs back?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
ME AND YOU AND EVERYONE WE KNOW
Release Date: 2005
Rating: R 18+
Running Time 91 mins
Miranda July's first offering is a break-out sensation, this is a film with real depth and a raw honesty that is generally missing from cinema. This is not a movie for people that like things to be glossy, this is a brave movie that touches on some heavier concepts involving loneliness, estrangement and gratification.
But, it is also a funny, touchy and albeit quirky tale about a lonely shoe salesman and an eccentric artist that are struggling to find their way in the world and into each other's lives. The children in this film are comic relief as they struggle through the real agonies and awkwardness of separation and self discovery, and the adults are likable in their hopeless loneliness. You will have a reaction to this film, one way or another, that much is certain.
Me and You and Everyone We Know won the Camera D'Or for best first feature and is definitely deserving of your time as well.
FINAL SAY: Back and forth forever.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2005
Rating: R 18+
Running Time 91 mins
Miranda July's first offering is a break-out sensation, this is a film with real depth and a raw honesty that is generally missing from cinema. This is not a movie for people that like things to be glossy, this is a brave movie that touches on some heavier concepts involving loneliness, estrangement and gratification.
But, it is also a funny, touchy and albeit quirky tale about a lonely shoe salesman and an eccentric artist that are struggling to find their way in the world and into each other's lives. The children in this film are comic relief as they struggle through the real agonies and awkwardness of separation and self discovery, and the adults are likable in their hopeless loneliness. You will have a reaction to this film, one way or another, that much is certain.
Me and You and Everyone We Know won the Camera D'Or for best first feature and is definitely deserving of your time as well.
FINAL SAY: Back and forth forever.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
C.R.A.Z.Y
Release Date: 2005
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 127 mins
Directed by Jean-Marc Vallee, this French language film from Quebec, Canada, tells the story of Zac, a young gay man struggling through the homophobic 1960's and 1970's. C.R.A.Z.Y was so well received that it clocks a massive 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, and is on the top ten list of Best Canadian Films of All time.
Much to his father horror, Zachary was born 'different' to his four other brothers. In order to keep his conservative family happy, Zac hides his sexuality and tries to adopt a lifestyle that he believes they will approve of, but it is not easy to live out a lie, and Zac must eventually allow himself to become who he truly is, regardless of the consequences.
This is a touching, colourful and beautifully constructed coming of age tale. The period of the 60's and 70's is truly brought to life here, and so are the prejudices and fears that surrounded gay lifestyles during that time. I really enjoyed this film, I thought that the behaviours of the characters were really believable and I don't know why we have seen more from Marc-Andre Grondin, who was utterly amazing as Zachary. And what a killer of a soundtrack, overall really very good indeed.
FINAL SAY: I want to be like everyone else.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2005
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 127 mins
Directed by Jean-Marc Vallee, this French language film from Quebec, Canada, tells the story of Zac, a young gay man struggling through the homophobic 1960's and 1970's. C.R.A.Z.Y was so well received that it clocks a massive 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, and is on the top ten list of Best Canadian Films of All time.
Much to his father horror, Zachary was born 'different' to his four other brothers. In order to keep his conservative family happy, Zac hides his sexuality and tries to adopt a lifestyle that he believes they will approve of, but it is not easy to live out a lie, and Zac must eventually allow himself to become who he truly is, regardless of the consequences.
This is a touching, colourful and beautifully constructed coming of age tale. The period of the 60's and 70's is truly brought to life here, and so are the prejudices and fears that surrounded gay lifestyles during that time. I really enjoyed this film, I thought that the behaviours of the characters were really believable and I don't know why we have seen more from Marc-Andre Grondin, who was utterly amazing as Zachary. And what a killer of a soundtrack, overall really very good indeed.
FINAL SAY: I want to be like everyone else.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE SQUID AND THE WHALE
Release Date: 2005
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 81 mins
Based on the true childhood experiences of writer and director Noah Baumbach and his little brother, The Squid and the Whale is an exposing tale of two boys dealing with their parents divorce and their own coming of age in Brooklyn in the 1980's.
Bernard and Joan Berkman cannot sustain their marriage and decide to divorce and share the custody of the boys equally. This decision seriously upsets the status quo of the family, and seemingly intelligent professionals and grounded children soon become irrational, dangerous, ruthless and attention seeking.
Jesse Eisenberg does a good job of portraying the awkward essence of Walt Bergman, and Jeff Daniels and Laura Linney are brilliant as the exhausted and torn divorcees. But it is young Owen Kline (son of Kevin Kline) who steals the show with his visceral portrayal of Frank Berkman, a child that is clearly struggling with his new and strange circumstances.
This is a short and yet incredibly poignant movie that speaks volumes about the implications of separation and deeper matters of the heart.
FINAL SAY: No one is unaffected by divorce.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2005
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 81 mins
Based on the true childhood experiences of writer and director Noah Baumbach and his little brother, The Squid and the Whale is an exposing tale of two boys dealing with their parents divorce and their own coming of age in Brooklyn in the 1980's.
Bernard and Joan Berkman cannot sustain their marriage and decide to divorce and share the custody of the boys equally. This decision seriously upsets the status quo of the family, and seemingly intelligent professionals and grounded children soon become irrational, dangerous, ruthless and attention seeking.
Jesse Eisenberg does a good job of portraying the awkward essence of Walt Bergman, and Jeff Daniels and Laura Linney are brilliant as the exhausted and torn divorcees. But it is young Owen Kline (son of Kevin Kline) who steals the show with his visceral portrayal of Frank Berkman, a child that is clearly struggling with his new and strange circumstances.
This is a short and yet incredibly poignant movie that speaks volumes about the implications of separation and deeper matters of the heart.
FINAL SAY: No one is unaffected by divorce.
4 Chilli Peppers
DOWNFALL
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 156 mins
All movies about Nazi Germany are hard going, and for that reason I was tempted to put this film onto my gritty list, or even my war list, but given the nature of this movie, I felt that it was best left in the foreign film section.
Nominated for a Best Foreign Language Academy Award in 2004, Downfall depicts the final 10 days of Adolf Hitler's rule over Nazi Germany in 1945. Directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel and written and produced by Bernd Eichinger, the movie is based on several historical recounts of that actual period in time, and it is engrossing in the most disturbing ways.
Most of the movie is set within the Berlin bunkers, as we watch Hitler's downfall and horror as he realises that he has lost the war, and also the loyalties of many of his trusted advisors and associates.
I felt absolutely no sympathy for Hitler or the Nazi's as I watched this movie, in fact I felt a sense of genuine pleasure to see that their final days were so incredibly stressful and confrontational. Bruno Ganz is unbelievably good in the role of Adolf Hitler, portraying both the influential and charismatic side of Hitler's personality as well as the unhinged madman with equal accuracy and fervor.
Watching a monster like Hitler squirm around in the bunkers for over two and a half hours isn't going to be to everyone's taste, but this is a movie that most definitely needs to be seen. Not only for its illuminating and detailed account and its incredible acting, but mostly because seeing someone so powerfully infamous and deeply detestable being utterly degraded and reduced to the standards of a mere mortal, is really very satisfying indeed.
FINAL SAY: Bullseye!
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 156 mins
All movies about Nazi Germany are hard going, and for that reason I was tempted to put this film onto my gritty list, or even my war list, but given the nature of this movie, I felt that it was best left in the foreign film section.
Nominated for a Best Foreign Language Academy Award in 2004, Downfall depicts the final 10 days of Adolf Hitler's rule over Nazi Germany in 1945. Directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel and written and produced by Bernd Eichinger, the movie is based on several historical recounts of that actual period in time, and it is engrossing in the most disturbing ways.
Most of the movie is set within the Berlin bunkers, as we watch Hitler's downfall and horror as he realises that he has lost the war, and also the loyalties of many of his trusted advisors and associates.
I felt absolutely no sympathy for Hitler or the Nazi's as I watched this movie, in fact I felt a sense of genuine pleasure to see that their final days were so incredibly stressful and confrontational. Bruno Ganz is unbelievably good in the role of Adolf Hitler, portraying both the influential and charismatic side of Hitler's personality as well as the unhinged madman with equal accuracy and fervor.
Watching a monster like Hitler squirm around in the bunkers for over two and a half hours isn't going to be to everyone's taste, but this is a movie that most definitely needs to be seen. Not only for its illuminating and detailed account and its incredible acting, but mostly because seeing someone so powerfully infamous and deeply detestable being utterly degraded and reduced to the standards of a mere mortal, is really very satisfying indeed.
FINAL SAY: Bullseye!
4 Chilli Peppers
KUNG FU HUSTLE
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 98 mins
A Hong Kong- Chinese Kung Fu action-comedy film, directed, co-produced and co-written by Stephen Chow. With a unique blend of comedy, special effects and martial arts, Kung Fu Hustle was destined to become a cult classic. When it comes to left of centre movie making, this is about as far left as one can get, but it is brilliantly so. Highly entertaining, supremely energetic and completely original, this film takes viewers on a very wacky ride indeed.
Shanghai in the 1930's is not a safe place to live. The Deadly Axe Gang ruthlessly control the city, with the slums of Pig Sty Alley providing the only safe refuge in town due to the fact that there is nothing of interest or wealth there. However, when a wannabe gangster accidentally brings the threat of the Axe Gang to the slums, a few hidden martial arts masters must reveal themselves in an attempt to restore order.
Chow was definitely having a lot of fun with this script and gives quite a few obvious nods to some of his favourite movies and directors along the way. The references come thick and fast, covering everything from The Shining to The Godfather, there are some real chestnuts to be found here for movie lovers, so keep your ears and eyes peeled!
FINAL SAY: What is the name of your technique?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 98 mins
A Hong Kong- Chinese Kung Fu action-comedy film, directed, co-produced and co-written by Stephen Chow. With a unique blend of comedy, special effects and martial arts, Kung Fu Hustle was destined to become a cult classic. When it comes to left of centre movie making, this is about as far left as one can get, but it is brilliantly so. Highly entertaining, supremely energetic and completely original, this film takes viewers on a very wacky ride indeed.
Shanghai in the 1930's is not a safe place to live. The Deadly Axe Gang ruthlessly control the city, with the slums of Pig Sty Alley providing the only safe refuge in town due to the fact that there is nothing of interest or wealth there. However, when a wannabe gangster accidentally brings the threat of the Axe Gang to the slums, a few hidden martial arts masters must reveal themselves in an attempt to restore order.
Chow was definitely having a lot of fun with this script and gives quite a few obvious nods to some of his favourite movies and directors along the way. The references come thick and fast, covering everything from The Shining to The Godfather, there are some real chestnuts to be found here for movie lovers, so keep your ears and eyes peeled!
FINAL SAY: What is the name of your technique?
4 Chilli Peppers
HOUSE OF FLYING DAGGERS
Release Date: 2004
Rating: M
Running Time: 118 mins
A magical glimpse of history and a spectacular visual feast from director Yimou Zhang. This film delivers a delightful mix of drama, fantasy -action, adventure and romance, making it a must see for fans of martial arts movies, especially if you like a decent story line along side your action.
Set during the reign of the Tang Dynasty in China, an underground rebel organization called 'The House of the Flying Daggers' has formed to oppose the corrupt government. Two government officials are assigned the task of capturing an exotic blind member of The Daggers, and through gaining her trust, discover the whereabouts of The Daggers secret lair.
The cast are all ridiculously good looking in this; Takeshi Kaneshiro, Andy Lau and Ziyi Zhang have all been endowed with insanely unfair genetics, all managing to look like their about to step onto the next Benetton shoot even when they are being tortured or stabbed.
Lots of plot twists and intrigue to be had here, but it is the amazing colour explosions, exquisite costumes and eye popping landscapes that really make this film a winner.
FINAL SAY: To be free like the wind.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: M
Running Time: 118 mins
A magical glimpse of history and a spectacular visual feast from director Yimou Zhang. This film delivers a delightful mix of drama, fantasy -action, adventure and romance, making it a must see for fans of martial arts movies, especially if you like a decent story line along side your action.
Set during the reign of the Tang Dynasty in China, an underground rebel organization called 'The House of the Flying Daggers' has formed to oppose the corrupt government. Two government officials are assigned the task of capturing an exotic blind member of The Daggers, and through gaining her trust, discover the whereabouts of The Daggers secret lair.
The cast are all ridiculously good looking in this; Takeshi Kaneshiro, Andy Lau and Ziyi Zhang have all been endowed with insanely unfair genetics, all managing to look like their about to step onto the next Benetton shoot even when they are being tortured or stabbed.
Lots of plot twists and intrigue to be had here, but it is the amazing colour explosions, exquisite costumes and eye popping landscapes that really make this film a winner.
FINAL SAY: To be free like the wind.
3 Chilli Peppers
CASSHERN
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 142 mins
This science fiction film is based on the 1973 Japanese anime of the same name. It is a moody and somewhat disturbing tale about a bleak future with a clearly different history than the one we have in reality.
The Earth has been ravaged and in the aftermath of war the government seeks power and control through neo-cell treatments that enhance human abilities. However after an accident in the laboratories, a race of mutants are unleashed and only the invincible warrior Casshern can stand against them.
The story line is clearly lacking here, but the movie has such a huge visual impact that it worth sitting through the almost 2.5 hours to see just how lovely the cinematography is.
FINAL SAY: Visually delightful with a very average storyline.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 142 mins
This science fiction film is based on the 1973 Japanese anime of the same name. It is a moody and somewhat disturbing tale about a bleak future with a clearly different history than the one we have in reality.
The Earth has been ravaged and in the aftermath of war the government seeks power and control through neo-cell treatments that enhance human abilities. However after an accident in the laboratories, a race of mutants are unleashed and only the invincible warrior Casshern can stand against them.
The story line is clearly lacking here, but the movie has such a huge visual impact that it worth sitting through the almost 2.5 hours to see just how lovely the cinematography is.
FINAL SAY: Visually delightful with a very average storyline.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE MOTORCYCLE DIARIES
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 126 mins
A Spanish biopic about the journey and written memoir of 23 year old Ernesto Guevara, who would several years later become internationally known as the iconic Marxist guerrilla commander and revolutionist, Che Guevara. Directed by Brazilian director Walter Salles and written by Puerto Rican playwright Jose Rivera, The Motorcycle Diaries won several awards and received a standing ovation at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival.
The film follows Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado as they travel, mostly by motorbike, across South America in the 1950's. Guevara finds himself touched by the hardships of the impoverish locals and appalled by the social injustices that they face. These encounters stir the beginnings of Guevara's radicalization that would later see him launch an armed revolution against the continent's economic inequalities.
This film is a genuinely interesting portrayal of the Latin American identity, and it is a fabulous insight into the early experiences that shaped Guevara into the powerful figurehead that he became. Gael Garcia Bernal is fabulous as young Guevara and Rodrigo de la Serna, who is actually a second cousin to the real Guevara, is also very good as Granado; and although their relationships aren't necessarily enhanced by this road trip movie, their experiences are shared and poignant.
FINAL SAY: I am not me any more. At least I'm not the same me as I was.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 126 mins
A Spanish biopic about the journey and written memoir of 23 year old Ernesto Guevara, who would several years later become internationally known as the iconic Marxist guerrilla commander and revolutionist, Che Guevara. Directed by Brazilian director Walter Salles and written by Puerto Rican playwright Jose Rivera, The Motorcycle Diaries won several awards and received a standing ovation at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival.
The film follows Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado as they travel, mostly by motorbike, across South America in the 1950's. Guevara finds himself touched by the hardships of the impoverish locals and appalled by the social injustices that they face. These encounters stir the beginnings of Guevara's radicalization that would later see him launch an armed revolution against the continent's economic inequalities.
This film is a genuinely interesting portrayal of the Latin American identity, and it is a fabulous insight into the early experiences that shaped Guevara into the powerful figurehead that he became. Gael Garcia Bernal is fabulous as young Guevara and Rodrigo de la Serna, who is actually a second cousin to the real Guevara, is also very good as Granado; and although their relationships aren't necessarily enhanced by this road trip movie, their experiences are shared and poignant.
FINAL SAY: I am not me any more. At least I'm not the same me as I was.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE MACHINIST
Release Date: 2004
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 101 mins
An English language, Spanish psychological thriller, directed by Brad Anderson and written by Scott Kosar. This was the film that proved Christian Bale's unbelievable commitment to his roles, when he shed an incredible 28 kilograms, living on an apple, a coffee and water for four months prior to filming to portray his character Trevor Reznik with more conviction.
Trevor Reznik is a machinist and an insomniac. His lack of sleep and routine has made him painfully emaciated and less than attentive on the job. His revolted co-workers turn against him after he is involved in an accident that leaves a his co-worker armless. Trevor believes that it was co-worker 'Ivan' that caused his distraction and the accident, but no-one has ever heard of Ivan and there are no records of his existence; and so begins a series of strange and unsettling events in the life of Trevor.
This is quite a challenging watch, the general tone and colour saturation of the film render it bleak and grimy, making everything feel menacing. The events that unfold for Trevor are far from joyful, as he tries to make sense of his addled thoughts and the things that are occurring around him. It also becomes increasingly difficult for the viewer to assess reality from fantasy, as they join him on his terrible downward spiral.
FINAL SAY: I just want to sleep.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 101 mins
An English language, Spanish psychological thriller, directed by Brad Anderson and written by Scott Kosar. This was the film that proved Christian Bale's unbelievable commitment to his roles, when he shed an incredible 28 kilograms, living on an apple, a coffee and water for four months prior to filming to portray his character Trevor Reznik with more conviction.
Trevor Reznik is a machinist and an insomniac. His lack of sleep and routine has made him painfully emaciated and less than attentive on the job. His revolted co-workers turn against him after he is involved in an accident that leaves a his co-worker armless. Trevor believes that it was co-worker 'Ivan' that caused his distraction and the accident, but no-one has ever heard of Ivan and there are no records of his existence; and so begins a series of strange and unsettling events in the life of Trevor.
This is quite a challenging watch, the general tone and colour saturation of the film render it bleak and grimy, making everything feel menacing. The events that unfold for Trevor are far from joyful, as he tries to make sense of his addled thoughts and the things that are occurring around him. It also becomes increasingly difficult for the viewer to assess reality from fantasy, as they join him on his terrible downward spiral.
FINAL SAY: I just want to sleep.
4 Chilli Peppers
I HEART HUCKABEES
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 107 mins
Albert (Jason Schwartzman) is an environmentalist that hires two Existential Detectives (Dustin Hoffman and Lily Tomlin) to try and sort out the coincidences that are occurring in his life. The detectives insist on spying on Albert's every move and bestowing their unusual blend of life philosophy upon him, as they uncover an old sinister rivalry that has escaped Albert's attention.
Actually, there is really a lot more going on in this film than I have mentioned, but it is just too odd to describe without giving away all of the interesting plot twists and characters. Essentially, this is a philosophical comedy that won't leave you rolling in the isles, but will tickle your funny bone with it's clever script and witty, offbeat style.
The cast is exceptionally strong, boasting the likes of Jude Law, Naomi Watts, Mark Wahlberg, Dustin Hoffman, Lily Tomlin and Jason Schwartzman, and they are all on point with the delivery of their less-than-usual characters. If you are in the mood something completely off the wall, then I highly recommend a watch.
FINAL SAY: Nobody sits like this rock sits. You rock, rock.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 107 mins
Albert (Jason Schwartzman) is an environmentalist that hires two Existential Detectives (Dustin Hoffman and Lily Tomlin) to try and sort out the coincidences that are occurring in his life. The detectives insist on spying on Albert's every move and bestowing their unusual blend of life philosophy upon him, as they uncover an old sinister rivalry that has escaped Albert's attention.
Actually, there is really a lot more going on in this film than I have mentioned, but it is just too odd to describe without giving away all of the interesting plot twists and characters. Essentially, this is a philosophical comedy that won't leave you rolling in the isles, but will tickle your funny bone with it's clever script and witty, offbeat style.
The cast is exceptionally strong, boasting the likes of Jude Law, Naomi Watts, Mark Wahlberg, Dustin Hoffman, Lily Tomlin and Jason Schwartzman, and they are all on point with the delivery of their less-than-usual characters. If you are in the mood something completely off the wall, then I highly recommend a watch.
FINAL SAY: Nobody sits like this rock sits. You rock, rock.
3 Chilli Peppers
BIG FISH
Release Date: 2003
Rating: PG
Running Time: 125 mins
This would have to be one of my favourite Tim Burton films of all time. This film is definitely dipping its foot in the pool of fantasy, but it has it roots firmly attached to drama. It is actually a beautiful combination of all genres, and it is a marvellous story to be entertained by.
A young man (Billy Crudup) sits by his father's bed as he is dying listening to him recall events from his life. His father, Ed Bloom is a master storyteller and admits that he embellishes the truth to keep his audience captivated. The result is a rich visual experience full of delight and wonder. The story twists and turns in magical and unexpected ways as the man tries to uncover the real truth of his father's life.
This movie is such a delight, it's like a modern fairytale complete with fantasy characters and strange happenings. Ewan McGregor is charming as the young Ed Bloom and Helena Bonham Carter picks up her multi- character hat and appears as different people throughout. The cast is strong with Jessica Lange, Steve Buscemi and Marion Cotillard picking up the bit roles to name but a few. It's crazy and colourful and utterly unmissable, a great movie for the whole family.
FINAL SAY: There are some fish that just cannot be caught.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2003
Rating: PG
Running Time: 125 mins
This would have to be one of my favourite Tim Burton films of all time. This film is definitely dipping its foot in the pool of fantasy, but it has it roots firmly attached to drama. It is actually a beautiful combination of all genres, and it is a marvellous story to be entertained by.
A young man (Billy Crudup) sits by his father's bed as he is dying listening to him recall events from his life. His father, Ed Bloom is a master storyteller and admits that he embellishes the truth to keep his audience captivated. The result is a rich visual experience full of delight and wonder. The story twists and turns in magical and unexpected ways as the man tries to uncover the real truth of his father's life.
This movie is such a delight, it's like a modern fairytale complete with fantasy characters and strange happenings. Ewan McGregor is charming as the young Ed Bloom and Helena Bonham Carter picks up her multi- character hat and appears as different people throughout. The cast is strong with Jessica Lange, Steve Buscemi and Marion Cotillard picking up the bit roles to name but a few. It's crazy and colourful and utterly unmissable, a great movie for the whole family.
FINAL SAY: There are some fish that just cannot be caught.
4 Chilli Peppers
DOGVILLE
Release Date: 2003
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 138 mins
Lars Von Trier galvanized his talent in this brilliant piece of filmmaking set in 9 acts and entirely filmed on just one set. Dogville is unlike any movie that I have seen before and not just because the story is utterly compelling and the acting is incredibly superior, but because it is a unique exploration of the dark, the beautiful and the perverse all tossed into one tiny basket.
When beautiful Grace (Nicole Kidman) arrives in lonely Dogville on the run from the mob, a local named Tom (Paul Bettany) feels compelled to enlist the help of the town to assist with hiding Grace from her foes. But Dogville is a town set in its ways and things unfold in the most unexpected of ways.
The cast are literally acting their hearts out here, they have to, the sets are drawn on the ground in white paint. This is the absolute best that I have seen Nicole Kidman and she rarely does anything poorly. Lauren Bacall, James Caan, Patricia Clarkson and Philip Baker Hall all make their mark here, and the entire story is narrated perfectly by John Hurt.
I was so impressed with this movie that I have debated on putting it into the Hall of Fame, it is utterly brilliant!
FINAL SAY: Dogs can be taught a great many things, but not if we forgive them every time they obey their own nature.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2003
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 138 mins
Lars Von Trier galvanized his talent in this brilliant piece of filmmaking set in 9 acts and entirely filmed on just one set. Dogville is unlike any movie that I have seen before and not just because the story is utterly compelling and the acting is incredibly superior, but because it is a unique exploration of the dark, the beautiful and the perverse all tossed into one tiny basket.
When beautiful Grace (Nicole Kidman) arrives in lonely Dogville on the run from the mob, a local named Tom (Paul Bettany) feels compelled to enlist the help of the town to assist with hiding Grace from her foes. But Dogville is a town set in its ways and things unfold in the most unexpected of ways.
The cast are literally acting their hearts out here, they have to, the sets are drawn on the ground in white paint. This is the absolute best that I have seen Nicole Kidman and she rarely does anything poorly. Lauren Bacall, James Caan, Patricia Clarkson and Philip Baker Hall all make their mark here, and the entire story is narrated perfectly by John Hurt.
I was so impressed with this movie that I have debated on putting it into the Hall of Fame, it is utterly brilliant!
FINAL SAY: Dogs can be taught a great many things, but not if we forgive them every time they obey their own nature.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
WHALE RIDER
Release Date: 2002
Rating: PG
Running Time: 101 mins
At the tender age of 13, actress Keisha Castle-Hughes became one of the youngest actresses to be nominated for an Academy Award due to the strength of her incredible performance in Whale Rider. Awarded the AGF People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival and the World Cinema Award at the Sundance Film Festival, this New Zealand-German movie collaboration, based on the novel of the same name by Witi Ihimaera, shot to the top of everyone's must see list in 2002.
When the next male in line for chiefdom in a local Maori tribe passes away in child birth, it is his twin sister Pai who survives and believes that she is the next chosen descendant. However, her traditional and steadfast grandfather Koro refuses to let Pai train for the honour, based on the fact that she is a female, and the chiefdom has always been reserved for males. Pai must go against her grandfathers wishes to fulfill her destiny and birthright, to become the Whale Rider.
Whale Rider was quite a controversial film because of its focus on female equality and cultural tradition. The tension is palpable in this movie, some of the scenes are utterly heart breaking. This is sensitive and beautiful film making with a truly interesting story line, just make sure you have your tissue box at the ready.
FINAL SAY: In the old days, the land felt a great emptiness. It was waiting, waiting to be filled up. Waiting for someone to love it. Waiting for a leader. And he came on the back of a whale.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2002
Rating: PG
Running Time: 101 mins
At the tender age of 13, actress Keisha Castle-Hughes became one of the youngest actresses to be nominated for an Academy Award due to the strength of her incredible performance in Whale Rider. Awarded the AGF People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival and the World Cinema Award at the Sundance Film Festival, this New Zealand-German movie collaboration, based on the novel of the same name by Witi Ihimaera, shot to the top of everyone's must see list in 2002.
When the next male in line for chiefdom in a local Maori tribe passes away in child birth, it is his twin sister Pai who survives and believes that she is the next chosen descendant. However, her traditional and steadfast grandfather Koro refuses to let Pai train for the honour, based on the fact that she is a female, and the chiefdom has always been reserved for males. Pai must go against her grandfathers wishes to fulfill her destiny and birthright, to become the Whale Rider.
Whale Rider was quite a controversial film because of its focus on female equality and cultural tradition. The tension is palpable in this movie, some of the scenes are utterly heart breaking. This is sensitive and beautiful film making with a truly interesting story line, just make sure you have your tissue box at the ready.
FINAL SAY: In the old days, the land felt a great emptiness. It was waiting, waiting to be filled up. Waiting for someone to love it. Waiting for a leader. And he came on the back of a whale.
4 Chilli Peppers
HERO
Release Date: 2002
Rating: M
Running Time: 99 mins
Be careful if you are looking to hire this film, there are a few movies with this title around these days, so make sure you get the Chinese language, Jet Li movie. Directed by Zhang Yimou, this Chinese wuxia movie is based on the story of Jing Ke's assassination attempt on the King of Qin in 227 BC.
Jet Li plays Nameless, a warrior who has come before the King of Qin to recount how he slay the three assassins Long Sky, Flying Snow and Broken Sword whom had previously attempted to assassinate the King.
This is a visually beautiful martial arts movie, steeped in Chinese tradition and perfectly showcasing the defining fighting styles. The sets and costumes are magical and mesmerizing, and even if you aren't a fan of martial arts you will still get a lot of out the sheer beauty, design and choreography of the film, which is perfectly paced and magnificently presented.
FINAL SAY: In any war there are heroes on both sides.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2002
Rating: M
Running Time: 99 mins
Be careful if you are looking to hire this film, there are a few movies with this title around these days, so make sure you get the Chinese language, Jet Li movie. Directed by Zhang Yimou, this Chinese wuxia movie is based on the story of Jing Ke's assassination attempt on the King of Qin in 227 BC.
Jet Li plays Nameless, a warrior who has come before the King of Qin to recount how he slay the three assassins Long Sky, Flying Snow and Broken Sword whom had previously attempted to assassinate the King.
This is a visually beautiful martial arts movie, steeped in Chinese tradition and perfectly showcasing the defining fighting styles. The sets and costumes are magical and mesmerizing, and even if you aren't a fan of martial arts you will still get a lot of out the sheer beauty, design and choreography of the film, which is perfectly paced and magnificently presented.
FINAL SAY: In any war there are heroes on both sides.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
CITY OF GOD (CIDADE DE DEUS)
Release Date: 2002
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 130 minutes
A Brazilian crime drama directed by Fernando Meirelles and based on the 1997 novel of the same name by Paulo Lins. The movie loosely covers real life events surrounding infamous crime and drug lords from the area called Cidade de Deus, a suburb of Rio de Janeiro. City of God also depicts the growth of organized crime within that area over the 20 year period between the 1960's and 1980's.
In the poverty stricken slums of Cidade De Deus, the children grow up fast and they grow up tough. Rocket, a budding photographer just wants to be able to afford a decent camera and lose his virginity, whilst ruthless Li'l Ze is determined to rule the streets and become the most notorious drug lord in his town. Their lives become entangled as they make their way to adulthood.
This is such a sad and desperate tale. Like all coming of age stories, at times it is deeply amusing, but for the most part I found it shocking and tremendously affecting. My heart ached for the hopelessness of the characters, especially the noble few that were actually attempting to change their own fates. The lack of respect for human life was one of the hardest things to cope with in this film, and although it was revered by critics I actually found the film exceedingly nasty in many ways. Gangster films are certainly not known for their feel good depictions, but when the gangsters are children and it's all based on real events, it just makes it all the more grim.
FINAL SAY: You need more than guts to be a good gangster. You need ideas.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2002
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 130 minutes
A Brazilian crime drama directed by Fernando Meirelles and based on the 1997 novel of the same name by Paulo Lins. The movie loosely covers real life events surrounding infamous crime and drug lords from the area called Cidade de Deus, a suburb of Rio de Janeiro. City of God also depicts the growth of organized crime within that area over the 20 year period between the 1960's and 1980's.
In the poverty stricken slums of Cidade De Deus, the children grow up fast and they grow up tough. Rocket, a budding photographer just wants to be able to afford a decent camera and lose his virginity, whilst ruthless Li'l Ze is determined to rule the streets and become the most notorious drug lord in his town. Their lives become entangled as they make their way to adulthood.
This is such a sad and desperate tale. Like all coming of age stories, at times it is deeply amusing, but for the most part I found it shocking and tremendously affecting. My heart ached for the hopelessness of the characters, especially the noble few that were actually attempting to change their own fates. The lack of respect for human life was one of the hardest things to cope with in this film, and although it was revered by critics I actually found the film exceedingly nasty in many ways. Gangster films are certainly not known for their feel good depictions, but when the gangsters are children and it's all based on real events, it just makes it all the more grim.
FINAL SAY: You need more than guts to be a good gangster. You need ideas.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
REAL WOMEN HAVE CURVES
Release Date: 2002
Rating: M
Running Time: 90 mins
This was the movie that launched America Ferrera (aka Ugly Betty) into stardom. When it debuted at the Sundance Film Festival in 2002 it won the Audience Award and the screenplay won the Humanitas Prize, galvanizing the need for real cinema about real women.
This is the story of Ana, a beautiful and curvaceous Mexican-American on the verge of adulthood. After gaining a scholarship to Columbia University, Ana must choose between her mainstream ambitions and her cultural heritage in this exploration of tradition versus breaking new ground.
There are loads of interesting interactions between strong women in this film, and it is a fascinating study of the working class Mexican- American female culture in America.
FINAL SAY: Real women embrace curves, flaws and opportunities.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2002
Rating: M
Running Time: 90 mins
This was the movie that launched America Ferrera (aka Ugly Betty) into stardom. When it debuted at the Sundance Film Festival in 2002 it won the Audience Award and the screenplay won the Humanitas Prize, galvanizing the need for real cinema about real women.
This is the story of Ana, a beautiful and curvaceous Mexican-American on the verge of adulthood. After gaining a scholarship to Columbia University, Ana must choose between her mainstream ambitions and her cultural heritage in this exploration of tradition versus breaking new ground.
There are loads of interesting interactions between strong women in this film, and it is a fascinating study of the working class Mexican- American female culture in America.
FINAL SAY: Real women embrace curves, flaws and opportunities.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
ADAPTATION
Release Date: 2002
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 114 mins
Written by Charlie Kaufman and directed by Spike Jonze, this art house adaptation of Susan Orlean's non-fiction book The Orchid Thief had me glued to my chair with interest. Adaptation could possibly be one of the most unconventional movies that I have ever seen; the script is brilliantly clever and the cast boasts a huge ensemble of Hollywood's finest.
Charlie Kaufman (Nicolas Cage) is hired to write a screenplay for The Orchid Thief by Susan Orlean (Meryl Streep). Kaufman's depression and self-loathing see him procrastinating the project and quietly becoming obsessed with Orlean's relationship with the actual orchard thief, Laroche. Kaufman's twin brother Donald steps in and forces him to meet up with Orlean in an attempt to aid his writer's block which sets into motion a series of catastrophic events.
As with all things Kaufman, this is a unique film that takes some unpredictable and highly unlikely plot twists, but all things considered, I really had a lot of fun with it. I adored Chris Cooper's portrayal of Laroche, a man that has equal amounts of ugliness and profound insight, and this is certainly one the better things that Nicolas Cage has engaged in by a long mile.
FINAL SAY: When you spot your flower, you can't let anything get in your way.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2002
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 114 mins
Written by Charlie Kaufman and directed by Spike Jonze, this art house adaptation of Susan Orlean's non-fiction book The Orchid Thief had me glued to my chair with interest. Adaptation could possibly be one of the most unconventional movies that I have ever seen; the script is brilliantly clever and the cast boasts a huge ensemble of Hollywood's finest.
Charlie Kaufman (Nicolas Cage) is hired to write a screenplay for The Orchid Thief by Susan Orlean (Meryl Streep). Kaufman's depression and self-loathing see him procrastinating the project and quietly becoming obsessed with Orlean's relationship with the actual orchard thief, Laroche. Kaufman's twin brother Donald steps in and forces him to meet up with Orlean in an attempt to aid his writer's block which sets into motion a series of catastrophic events.
As with all things Kaufman, this is a unique film that takes some unpredictable and highly unlikely plot twists, but all things considered, I really had a lot of fun with it. I adored Chris Cooper's portrayal of Laroche, a man that has equal amounts of ugliness and profound insight, and this is certainly one the better things that Nicolas Cage has engaged in by a long mile.
FINAL SAY: When you spot your flower, you can't let anything get in your way.
4 Chilli Peppers
AMELIE
Release Date: 2001
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 122 mins
It's all things cutesy and Parisian in overload in this whimsical depiction of a contemporary life in Montmartre by French director Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Universally adored, Amelie won the hearts of viewers worldwide and won Best Film at the European Film Awards, four Cesar Awards and two BAFTA Awards; quickly making Audrey Tautou a household name and everyone's favourite French personality.
Shy waitress Amelie Poulain, whose childhood was repressed by an overprotective father, amuses herself with simple life pleasures. However, she is fascinated by the lives of others, and secretly goes about mending hearts and making dreams a reality through a variety of random acts of kindness. When Amelie meets Nino by chance, she is instantly infatuated and gets creative about the best way to win his heart.
This is a magical romance tale, set against the beautiful Parisian streets, it encompasses everything wonderful about French lifestyles and the kindness of strangers. I loved it! I fell in love with Amelie and I know you will too, it's a darling little tale.
FINAL SAY: These are hard times for dreamers.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2001
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 122 mins
It's all things cutesy and Parisian in overload in this whimsical depiction of a contemporary life in Montmartre by French director Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Universally adored, Amelie won the hearts of viewers worldwide and won Best Film at the European Film Awards, four Cesar Awards and two BAFTA Awards; quickly making Audrey Tautou a household name and everyone's favourite French personality.
Shy waitress Amelie Poulain, whose childhood was repressed by an overprotective father, amuses herself with simple life pleasures. However, she is fascinated by the lives of others, and secretly goes about mending hearts and making dreams a reality through a variety of random acts of kindness. When Amelie meets Nino by chance, she is instantly infatuated and gets creative about the best way to win his heart.
This is a magical romance tale, set against the beautiful Parisian streets, it encompasses everything wonderful about French lifestyles and the kindness of strangers. I loved it! I fell in love with Amelie and I know you will too, it's a darling little tale.
FINAL SAY: These are hard times for dreamers.
4 Chilli Peppers
MOULIN ROUGE!
Release Date: 2001
Rating: M
Running Time: 127 mins
Easily my favourite of the Baz Luhrmann efforts and his final instalment in The Red Curtain Trilogy; Moulin Rouge! is an extravagant spectacular that generally received a love it or hate it reaction from it's viewers. At the Academy Awards it won the Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design awards, it fared better at the BAFTAs and swept away many of the Australian Film Institute Awards and whether you yourself love it or not, it does have a magical and highly entertaining quality that simply cannot be ignored.
Set in Montmartre, Paris, in 1900, a young British writer falls madly in love with a terminally ill performer and courtesan at the seedy and yet spectacular cabaret hall - The Moulin Rouge. But Christian and Satine's love is fraught with barriers and difficulties, making this story an epic saga and a very exciting musical.
The music compilations are a work of genius and are really the strength of this film in my opinion. There's everything from Queen and David Bowie to Madonna and Nirvana, all mashed together in a unique and fantastic way. Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor do a great job of their musically demanding roles and compliment each other well on screen. Like all things Luhrmann, it's lush and utterly over the top, but I really enjoyed it and think that it is a must see movie when it comes to romance and musicals.
FINAL SAY: The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2001
Rating: M
Running Time: 127 mins
Easily my favourite of the Baz Luhrmann efforts and his final instalment in The Red Curtain Trilogy; Moulin Rouge! is an extravagant spectacular that generally received a love it or hate it reaction from it's viewers. At the Academy Awards it won the Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design awards, it fared better at the BAFTAs and swept away many of the Australian Film Institute Awards and whether you yourself love it or not, it does have a magical and highly entertaining quality that simply cannot be ignored.
Set in Montmartre, Paris, in 1900, a young British writer falls madly in love with a terminally ill performer and courtesan at the seedy and yet spectacular cabaret hall - The Moulin Rouge. But Christian and Satine's love is fraught with barriers and difficulties, making this story an epic saga and a very exciting musical.
The music compilations are a work of genius and are really the strength of this film in my opinion. There's everything from Queen and David Bowie to Madonna and Nirvana, all mashed together in a unique and fantastic way. Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor do a great job of their musically demanding roles and compliment each other well on screen. Like all things Luhrmann, it's lush and utterly over the top, but I really enjoyed it and think that it is a must see movie when it comes to romance and musicals.
FINAL SAY: The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.
4 Chilli Peppers
Y TU MAMA TAMBIEN
Release Date: 2001
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 106 mins
A Mexican drama, when translated means And Your Mother Too, that is essentially a coming-of-age road trip movie. Directed by Alfonso Cuaron and co-written with his brother, this film was widely recognized for it's explicit depiction of sex and drug use, which caused complications when it came to the film's rating certificate in various countries. The film was nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Academy Awards as well as Best Foreign Language Film at the Golden Globes in 2002.
Two seventeen year old boys, Julio and Tenoch, embark on a cross-country road trip with a sexually adventurous older woman that leads to an exploration of their lives, their friendship and the world around them.
With tonnes of raw teenage sexual energy and bold political undertones, this film has a voice. Maribel Verdu, Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna all add a lot of punch to the overall effect of the movie, which will keep you engrossed with it's amazing character study that feels completely unforced and sincere.
FINAL SAY: Life is like the foam of the sea. You must dive into it.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2001
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 106 mins
A Mexican drama, when translated means And Your Mother Too, that is essentially a coming-of-age road trip movie. Directed by Alfonso Cuaron and co-written with his brother, this film was widely recognized for it's explicit depiction of sex and drug use, which caused complications when it came to the film's rating certificate in various countries. The film was nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Academy Awards as well as Best Foreign Language Film at the Golden Globes in 2002.
Two seventeen year old boys, Julio and Tenoch, embark on a cross-country road trip with a sexually adventurous older woman that leads to an exploration of their lives, their friendship and the world around them.
With tonnes of raw teenage sexual energy and bold political undertones, this film has a voice. Maribel Verdu, Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna all add a lot of punch to the overall effect of the movie, which will keep you engrossed with it's amazing character study that feels completely unforced and sincere.
FINAL SAY: Life is like the foam of the sea. You must dive into it.
3 Chilli Peppers
WAKING LIFE
Release Date: 2001
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 101 mins
Richard Linklater takes us into the odd and unpredictable world of dreams in this exciting animation/live role film that explores not just dreaming, but also about the philosophies of life itself.
Waking Life follows one man through a series of dreams in he attempts to discern the difference between real life and the fabric of his dreams. As he dreams, he meets various characters that share their own opinions about conscious reality, subconscious reality, life, death and the deeper mysteries that lie within us all.
This movie probes its viewers to think about what their dreams are trying to tell them, it really is a movie for the thinkers, the ponderers and especially the dreamers.
FINAL SAY: Hey, are you a dreamer?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2001
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 101 mins
Richard Linklater takes us into the odd and unpredictable world of dreams in this exciting animation/live role film that explores not just dreaming, but also about the philosophies of life itself.
Waking Life follows one man through a series of dreams in he attempts to discern the difference between real life and the fabric of his dreams. As he dreams, he meets various characters that share their own opinions about conscious reality, subconscious reality, life, death and the deeper mysteries that lie within us all.
This movie probes its viewers to think about what their dreams are trying to tell them, it really is a movie for the thinkers, the ponderers and especially the dreamers.
FINAL SAY: Hey, are you a dreamer?
4 Chilli Peppers
MULHOLLAND DRIVE
Release Date: 2001
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 147 mins
It's David Lynch on overload in this extravaganza of the weird and inexplicable. This is probably Lynch's most notable and yet utterly confusing piece of work, but like all Lynch movies, you need to watch it with an open mind and a willingness to get lost in the complexities of characters, behaviours and occurrences.
A woman survives a double near death experience, only to find that she has amnesia. She hooks up with a wannabe starlet in Hollywood and the two attempt to unravel the truth of her past. However, their attempts only lead them further and further into a series of psychotic illusions that involve a mysterious blue box, a director named Kesher and a very strange night club called Silencio.
Between the cowboy, the terrifying hobo, the dwarf in the wheelchair and the myriad of other creepy characters, this is intense and confusing viewing. However, it is so well acted and unusually directed that it leaves you with an intensely insidious feeling, like you have just witnessed something taboo and perverse. Clearly, Lynch achieves all that he set out to do, which was to get a reaction out of his audience.
Naomi Watts is brilliant as the Betty/Diane characters, really demonstrating her range and ability as a young and upcoming actress at that time, obviously her roles would have been genuinely demanding given the extreme complexity of the characters.
This is not a movie that everyone will like, but I don't think Lynch makes movies for people to like, he makes his vision and the audience can simply take it or leave it, making him a true visionary and revolutionist in the filmmaking industry.
FINAL SAY: It'll be just like the movies. Pretending to be someone else.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2001
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 147 mins
It's David Lynch on overload in this extravaganza of the weird and inexplicable. This is probably Lynch's most notable and yet utterly confusing piece of work, but like all Lynch movies, you need to watch it with an open mind and a willingness to get lost in the complexities of characters, behaviours and occurrences.
A woman survives a double near death experience, only to find that she has amnesia. She hooks up with a wannabe starlet in Hollywood and the two attempt to unravel the truth of her past. However, their attempts only lead them further and further into a series of psychotic illusions that involve a mysterious blue box, a director named Kesher and a very strange night club called Silencio.
Between the cowboy, the terrifying hobo, the dwarf in the wheelchair and the myriad of other creepy characters, this is intense and confusing viewing. However, it is so well acted and unusually directed that it leaves you with an intensely insidious feeling, like you have just witnessed something taboo and perverse. Clearly, Lynch achieves all that he set out to do, which was to get a reaction out of his audience.
Naomi Watts is brilliant as the Betty/Diane characters, really demonstrating her range and ability as a young and upcoming actress at that time, obviously her roles would have been genuinely demanding given the extreme complexity of the characters.
This is not a movie that everyone will like, but I don't think Lynch makes movies for people to like, he makes his vision and the audience can simply take it or leave it, making him a true visionary and revolutionist in the filmmaking industry.
FINAL SAY: It'll be just like the movies. Pretending to be someone else.
3 Chilli Peppers
HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH
Release Date: 2001
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 95 mins
If you are in the mood for something completely different with a lot of awesome music then you are going to love Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Dare I say it, but I liked this a lot more than The Rocky Horror Picture Show, I think that the story line and the music were far superior, and when it comes to trans-sexual men, Hedwig wins hands down. With his incredible glam costuming and svelte figure, Hedwig looks like the love child of Juliette Lewis and Rachel Griffiths and sings his heart out to tell his mostly tragic tale of self discovery.
Hedwig, born Hansel in Communist East Berlin, always dreamed of being a rock star. However, to escape Berlin and find liberation he must leave a part of himself behind - a few inches of himself actually, and he soon finds that he is stranded in Kansas with a broken heart and after his botched sex change, an 'angry inch'. Hedwig falls for a religious boy named Tommy Gnosis and shares all of his music with him, only to have Tommy steal his material and rise to fame. Refusing defeat, Hedwig and his band The Angry Inch play music at run down restaurants to seek some recognition, but Hedwig must first reconcile with his missing other half in order to feel at peace again.
This film has a lot of emotional poignancy; John Cameron Mitchell is epic as the beautiful and hard rocking heroine Hedwig and a very young Michael Pitt fleshes out the role of Tommy with convincing and confused teen energy. This is unlike anything else that I have seen, but it rocks hard and I was riveted from start to end.
FINAL SAY: The origins of love.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2001
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 95 mins
If you are in the mood for something completely different with a lot of awesome music then you are going to love Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Dare I say it, but I liked this a lot more than The Rocky Horror Picture Show, I think that the story line and the music were far superior, and when it comes to trans-sexual men, Hedwig wins hands down. With his incredible glam costuming and svelte figure, Hedwig looks like the love child of Juliette Lewis and Rachel Griffiths and sings his heart out to tell his mostly tragic tale of self discovery.
Hedwig, born Hansel in Communist East Berlin, always dreamed of being a rock star. However, to escape Berlin and find liberation he must leave a part of himself behind - a few inches of himself actually, and he soon finds that he is stranded in Kansas with a broken heart and after his botched sex change, an 'angry inch'. Hedwig falls for a religious boy named Tommy Gnosis and shares all of his music with him, only to have Tommy steal his material and rise to fame. Refusing defeat, Hedwig and his band The Angry Inch play music at run down restaurants to seek some recognition, but Hedwig must first reconcile with his missing other half in order to feel at peace again.
This film has a lot of emotional poignancy; John Cameron Mitchell is epic as the beautiful and hard rocking heroine Hedwig and a very young Michael Pitt fleshes out the role of Tommy with convincing and confused teen energy. This is unlike anything else that I have seen, but it rocks hard and I was riveted from start to end.
FINAL SAY: The origins of love.
3 Chilli Peppers
BREAD AND TULIPS
Release Date: 2000
Rating: PG 13
Running Time: 114 mins
An Italian romantic comedy directed by Silvio Soldini that delivers a perfect hit of hopeful joy and renewed self discovery that is both refreshing and entertaining to watch.
Rosalba starts to see the realities of her marriage when her husband leaves her behind whilst on a family holiday. Tired of her routine as a housewife and under appreciated mother, Rosalba embarks on a trip to finally see Venice and experience a new way of being.
Bread and Tulips is a lot like Shirley Valentine in premise but it contained a lot more heartfelt interactions, way less sarcasm and a lot less sex. Rosalba's charming character is just impossible to not fall in love with and she is perfectly portrayed by the always lovely Lucia Maglietta. The casting here is truly great, and I especially enjoyed Bruno Ganz as Fernando, Marina Massironi as Gazia and Guiseppe Battiston as the hilarious plumber come private detective, Costantino.
This is a terrific slice of Italian cinema and a heart-warming tale that shouldn't be missed.
FINAL SAY: I felt my phoenix rise from the ashes.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: PG 13
Running Time: 114 mins
An Italian romantic comedy directed by Silvio Soldini that delivers a perfect hit of hopeful joy and renewed self discovery that is both refreshing and entertaining to watch.
Rosalba starts to see the realities of her marriage when her husband leaves her behind whilst on a family holiday. Tired of her routine as a housewife and under appreciated mother, Rosalba embarks on a trip to finally see Venice and experience a new way of being.
Bread and Tulips is a lot like Shirley Valentine in premise but it contained a lot more heartfelt interactions, way less sarcasm and a lot less sex. Rosalba's charming character is just impossible to not fall in love with and she is perfectly portrayed by the always lovely Lucia Maglietta. The casting here is truly great, and I especially enjoyed Bruno Ganz as Fernando, Marina Massironi as Gazia and Guiseppe Battiston as the hilarious plumber come private detective, Costantino.
This is a terrific slice of Italian cinema and a heart-warming tale that shouldn't be missed.
FINAL SAY: I felt my phoenix rise from the ashes.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
CROUCHING TIGER HIDDEN DRAGON
Release Date: 2000
Rating: M
Running Time: 120 mins
An American-Chinese-Hong Kong-Taiwanese co-production, directed by Ang Lee and based on the fourth novel of the Chinese Crane Iron Pentalogy by Wang Dulu. Created on a budget of $17 million, the film went on to become an international success, grossing over $213 million and winning the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, four BAFTA'S and two Golden Globes.
Set in 19th Century Qing Dynasty China, an accomplished Wudang swordsman (Chow Yun-Fat) intends to give up his warrior life and entrusts his sword - the Green Destiny, to Yu Shu Lien, a woman that he has a fondness for. He asks that she transports the sword to Beijing, to pass it along to a friend of theirs, however, before Yu can deliver the sword, it is stolen by a mysterious thief and an action-packed chase begins.
This is a crowd pleasing martial arts film, there is a good mix of action, clever storytelling, romance and magic. It's a visual feast for the eyes with beautiful backdrops and landscapes, and loads of mythical choreographed martial arts fights scenes that defy gravity and reality. You don't need to like martial arts to love this movie, it's covering a lot of bases and there is something here for everyone's tastes, it's an epic like no other.
FINAL SAY: Because of your love, I will never be a lonely spirit.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: M
Running Time: 120 mins
An American-Chinese-Hong Kong-Taiwanese co-production, directed by Ang Lee and based on the fourth novel of the Chinese Crane Iron Pentalogy by Wang Dulu. Created on a budget of $17 million, the film went on to become an international success, grossing over $213 million and winning the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, four BAFTA'S and two Golden Globes.
Set in 19th Century Qing Dynasty China, an accomplished Wudang swordsman (Chow Yun-Fat) intends to give up his warrior life and entrusts his sword - the Green Destiny, to Yu Shu Lien, a woman that he has a fondness for. He asks that she transports the sword to Beijing, to pass it along to a friend of theirs, however, before Yu can deliver the sword, it is stolen by a mysterious thief and an action-packed chase begins.
This is a crowd pleasing martial arts film, there is a good mix of action, clever storytelling, romance and magic. It's a visual feast for the eyes with beautiful backdrops and landscapes, and loads of mythical choreographed martial arts fights scenes that defy gravity and reality. You don't need to like martial arts to love this movie, it's covering a lot of bases and there is something here for everyone's tastes, it's an epic like no other.
FINAL SAY: Because of your love, I will never be a lonely spirit.
4 Chilli Peppers
IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE
Release Date: 2000
Rating: PG
Running Time: 98 mins
This is a love story for adults, a film about being completely aware of your feelings but being adult enough to not have to act on every impulse. This is one of the most hypnotic and beautifully detailed movies that I have seen in a long time, from the gorgeous costuming to the dramatic city streetscapes, I just adored the flow and lush tone of this film.
Set in 1962, two lonely neighbours form a strong bond when they realise that both of their spouses are being unfaithful. They vow to keep their relationship platonic, because they do not wish to perpetuate the disrespect that their spouses have shown them.
A Chinese language film, made in Hong Kong and directed by Wong Kar-wai, In The Mood For Love in it's original Chinese title means "the age of blossoms" or "the flowery years" which is a Chinese metaphor for the fleeting time of youth, beauty and love, which should give you some idea about the romantic nature of this film. The movie premiered at the 2000 Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for the Palme d'Or, it has since gone to be regarded as one of the best romance movies to have ever been made.
FINAL SAY: He remembers those vanished years.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: PG
Running Time: 98 mins
This is a love story for adults, a film about being completely aware of your feelings but being adult enough to not have to act on every impulse. This is one of the most hypnotic and beautifully detailed movies that I have seen in a long time, from the gorgeous costuming to the dramatic city streetscapes, I just adored the flow and lush tone of this film.
Set in 1962, two lonely neighbours form a strong bond when they realise that both of their spouses are being unfaithful. They vow to keep their relationship platonic, because they do not wish to perpetuate the disrespect that their spouses have shown them.
A Chinese language film, made in Hong Kong and directed by Wong Kar-wai, In The Mood For Love in it's original Chinese title means "the age of blossoms" or "the flowery years" which is a Chinese metaphor for the fleeting time of youth, beauty and love, which should give you some idea about the romantic nature of this film. The movie premiered at the 2000 Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for the Palme d'Or, it has since gone to be regarded as one of the best romance movies to have ever been made.
FINAL SAY: He remembers those vanished years.
4 Chilli Peppers
QUILLS
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 124 mins
Inspired by the life and work of the controversial author and philosopher the Marquis de Sade; this period film directed by Philip Kaufman, was cited by historians as factually inaccurate. However, the filmmakers and writers of Quills said they were not trying to make a biography, they were attempting to explore matters concerning censorship, mental illness and religion during the early 1800's.
Whilst imprisoned at the Charanton Insane Asylum for unmentionable acts, the Marquis de Sade (Geoffrey Rush) befriends a beautiful laundress named Madeline (Kate Winslet) and a young man of the cloth, The Abbe de Coulmier (Joaquin Phoenix). However, after it is discovered that Madeline has been assisting the Marquis to secretly publish his latest works of erotica, the Emperor Napoleon seeks to enlist Dr. Royer-Collard to oversee the asylum, a man famed for his torturous punishments.
As with all things Marquis de Sade related, you can expect debauchery and highly sexualised content, but there is a lot more going on here than just the pornographic rantings of a so-called madman. There is a great deal of emotional entanglement involved in this beautiful script for you to consider and with a stellar ensemble cast, it delivers in a beautiful and haunting way.
FINAL SAY: So come...I dare you....turn the page...
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 124 mins
Inspired by the life and work of the controversial author and philosopher the Marquis de Sade; this period film directed by Philip Kaufman, was cited by historians as factually inaccurate. However, the filmmakers and writers of Quills said they were not trying to make a biography, they were attempting to explore matters concerning censorship, mental illness and religion during the early 1800's.
Whilst imprisoned at the Charanton Insane Asylum for unmentionable acts, the Marquis de Sade (Geoffrey Rush) befriends a beautiful laundress named Madeline (Kate Winslet) and a young man of the cloth, The Abbe de Coulmier (Joaquin Phoenix). However, after it is discovered that Madeline has been assisting the Marquis to secretly publish his latest works of erotica, the Emperor Napoleon seeks to enlist Dr. Royer-Collard to oversee the asylum, a man famed for his torturous punishments.
As with all things Marquis de Sade related, you can expect debauchery and highly sexualised content, but there is a lot more going on here than just the pornographic rantings of a so-called madman. There is a great deal of emotional entanglement involved in this beautiful script for you to consider and with a stellar ensemble cast, it delivers in a beautiful and haunting way.
FINAL SAY: So come...I dare you....turn the page...
4 Chilli Peppers
THE VIRGIN SUICIDES
Release Date: 1999
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 97 mins
An American drama written and directed by Sofia Coppola and produced by her father, Francis Ford Coppola. Based on the novel of the same name by Jeffrey Eugenides, the film tells of the events surrounding the mysterious and brief lives of five sisters growing up in middle class Detroit during the 1970's.
Five beautiful teenage sisters struggle to find their freedom and identities, which are continuously being stifled by their strict and religious parents. A group of local boys become obsessed with the girls, desperately trying to get closer to them and to share in their plight.
This was Sofia Coppola's first feature length directorial movie, and it really launched her career into overdrive. The Virgin Suicides also launched the careers of several young and upcoming actors, most notably Kirsten Dunst, for her stirring performance of Lux Lisbon; the most rebellious of the Lisbon girls.
The melancholic tone and images of idle beauty and unfulfilled teen experiences is what really stuck with me about this film. It's a sad tale, filled with wasted dreams and backed by a fabulously moody soundtrack, making the overall effect haunting and genuinely unforgettable.
FINAL SAY: Our job was merely to create the noise that seemed to fascinate them.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1999
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 97 mins
An American drama written and directed by Sofia Coppola and produced by her father, Francis Ford Coppola. Based on the novel of the same name by Jeffrey Eugenides, the film tells of the events surrounding the mysterious and brief lives of five sisters growing up in middle class Detroit during the 1970's.
Five beautiful teenage sisters struggle to find their freedom and identities, which are continuously being stifled by their strict and religious parents. A group of local boys become obsessed with the girls, desperately trying to get closer to them and to share in their plight.
This was Sofia Coppola's first feature length directorial movie, and it really launched her career into overdrive. The Virgin Suicides also launched the careers of several young and upcoming actors, most notably Kirsten Dunst, for her stirring performance of Lux Lisbon; the most rebellious of the Lisbon girls.
The melancholic tone and images of idle beauty and unfulfilled teen experiences is what really stuck with me about this film. It's a sad tale, filled with wasted dreams and backed by a fabulously moody soundtrack, making the overall effect haunting and genuinely unforgettable.
FINAL SAY: Our job was merely to create the noise that seemed to fascinate them.
4 Chilli Peppers
BEING JOHN MALKOVICH
Release Date: 1999
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 112 mins
Director Spike Jonze and writer Charlie Kaufman hit a sweet and extremely quirky note with Being John Malkovich. This is a movie for anyone that has wanted to experience what it would be like to be in someone else's shoes, or in this case - their mind.
Craig Schwartz (John Cusack) discovers a portal behind a filing cabinet at work that leads to the mind of John Malkovich. Craig finds that he can observe and sense everything that Malkovich is doing, for only a short period before he is ejected and dropped into a ditch near a New Jersey turnpike. Hoping that he can win the attractions of his co-worker Maxine (Catherine Keener) he shares the portal, which proves to be a big mistake when lots of other people begin to be John Malkovich and things rapidly go from odd to even weirder!
The cast is fabulous in this, I am not a fan of Cameron Diaz, but even she was tolerable. Being John Malkovich is a seriously weird and surprising watch with loads or originality and utterly unpredictable outcomes, it's a worthy watch for sure.
FINAL SAY: Meet you in Malkovich in one hour.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1999
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 112 mins
Director Spike Jonze and writer Charlie Kaufman hit a sweet and extremely quirky note with Being John Malkovich. This is a movie for anyone that has wanted to experience what it would be like to be in someone else's shoes, or in this case - their mind.
Craig Schwartz (John Cusack) discovers a portal behind a filing cabinet at work that leads to the mind of John Malkovich. Craig finds that he can observe and sense everything that Malkovich is doing, for only a short period before he is ejected and dropped into a ditch near a New Jersey turnpike. Hoping that he can win the attractions of his co-worker Maxine (Catherine Keener) he shares the portal, which proves to be a big mistake when lots of other people begin to be John Malkovich and things rapidly go from odd to even weirder!
The cast is fabulous in this, I am not a fan of Cameron Diaz, but even she was tolerable. Being John Malkovich is a seriously weird and surprising watch with loads or originality and utterly unpredictable outcomes, it's a worthy watch for sure.
FINAL SAY: Meet you in Malkovich in one hour.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS
Release Date: 1998
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 118 mins
Adapted from Hunter S. Thompson's novel by the same name, this avant-garde road trip movie is certainly like nothing else that I have ever seen before. This film polarized audiences and nose dived at the box office, only to resurrect itself from the ashes and develop a cult following after it's DVD release.
A weirdo journalist (Johnny Depp) and a clearly psychopathic lawyer (Benicio Del Toro) travel cross country to Las Vegas, indulging in a multitude of psychedelic drugs along the way as they search for the "American Dream."
Don't expect to understand what is going most of the time, the characters don't have any idea themselves, you just have to go along for the ride, which is one part black comedy, one part utter confusion and one part deeply disturbing. Depp and Del Toro have never been so hideous and unappealing, they are just revolting in every way here, really adding to the overall vulgarity level of the movie.
With the use of a Google computer vision program called DeepDream, some of the hallucination scenes get mighty trippy, and I know that I am not going to forget that lizard scene any time soon.
FINAL SAY: Let's get down to the brass tacks, how much for the ape?
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1998
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 118 mins
Adapted from Hunter S. Thompson's novel by the same name, this avant-garde road trip movie is certainly like nothing else that I have ever seen before. This film polarized audiences and nose dived at the box office, only to resurrect itself from the ashes and develop a cult following after it's DVD release.
A weirdo journalist (Johnny Depp) and a clearly psychopathic lawyer (Benicio Del Toro) travel cross country to Las Vegas, indulging in a multitude of psychedelic drugs along the way as they search for the "American Dream."
Don't expect to understand what is going most of the time, the characters don't have any idea themselves, you just have to go along for the ride, which is one part black comedy, one part utter confusion and one part deeply disturbing. Depp and Del Toro have never been so hideous and unappealing, they are just revolting in every way here, really adding to the overall vulgarity level of the movie.
With the use of a Google computer vision program called DeepDream, some of the hallucination scenes get mighty trippy, and I know that I am not going to forget that lizard scene any time soon.
FINAL SAY: Let's get down to the brass tacks, how much for the ape?
3 Chilli Peppers
PI
Release Date: 1998
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 84 mins
Darren Aronofsky's first full length feature film earned him a Directing Award at the 1998 Sundance Film Festival, the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Screenplay and the Gotham Open Palm Award. Filmed in high contrast black and white, Pi is an eerie, compelling and intense journey into the mind of an obsessed mathematician.
Mathematical genius Max Cohen suffers from debilitating headaches and intense delusional visions, for which he is heavily self medicating. By using his super home built computer, Max holes up for days in his tiny and insanely claustrophobic apartment in an attempt to unlock a secret number which he believes to be the key to unlocking all universal patterns and maybe even the key to existence itself.
This is a dark romp, with religious and economic undertones. Sean Gullette is hauntingly damaged and utterly compelling as Max, and I really enjoyed Mark Margolis' character Sol, who was Max's only voice of reason.
FINAL SAY: Mathematics is the language of nature.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1998
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 84 mins
Darren Aronofsky's first full length feature film earned him a Directing Award at the 1998 Sundance Film Festival, the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Screenplay and the Gotham Open Palm Award. Filmed in high contrast black and white, Pi is an eerie, compelling and intense journey into the mind of an obsessed mathematician.
Mathematical genius Max Cohen suffers from debilitating headaches and intense delusional visions, for which he is heavily self medicating. By using his super home built computer, Max holes up for days in his tiny and insanely claustrophobic apartment in an attempt to unlock a secret number which he believes to be the key to unlocking all universal patterns and maybe even the key to existence itself.
This is a dark romp, with religious and economic undertones. Sean Gullette is hauntingly damaged and utterly compelling as Max, and I really enjoyed Mark Margolis' character Sol, who was Max's only voice of reason.
FINAL SAY: Mathematics is the language of nature.
3 Chilli Peppers
RUN LOLA RUN
Release Date: 1998
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 80 mins
Written and directed by Tom Tykwer, this German thriller is a visually and conceptually impressive body of work. Run Lola Run won an enormous array of awards upon its release including the Sundance Film Festival World Movie Award, mostly due to its unique story line and interesting film-making qualities.
Lola (Franka Potente) receives a phone call from her boyfriend Manni, he has misplaced a bag carrying $100,000 dollars on a train that belongs to a gangster. Manni must recover the money by noon, which has been picked up by a homeless man, or else he will be killed. This only leaves Lola 20 short minutes to save her boyfriend.
The movie plays out like a choose your own adventure story, Lola relives her 20 minute ordeal three times, each time making different choices that lead her to different outcomes. This is clever and very cool film making, the movie darts around using different techniques including animation, black and white, slow and fast motion and amazing stills. The soundtrack is dynamic and for only 80 minutes running time, there is a lot packed in here, making it a tight and tense watch.
FINAL SAY: But in the end, isn't it always the same question? And always the same answer?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1998
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 80 mins
Written and directed by Tom Tykwer, this German thriller is a visually and conceptually impressive body of work. Run Lola Run won an enormous array of awards upon its release including the Sundance Film Festival World Movie Award, mostly due to its unique story line and interesting film-making qualities.
Lola (Franka Potente) receives a phone call from her boyfriend Manni, he has misplaced a bag carrying $100,000 dollars on a train that belongs to a gangster. Manni must recover the money by noon, which has been picked up by a homeless man, or else he will be killed. This only leaves Lola 20 short minutes to save her boyfriend.
The movie plays out like a choose your own adventure story, Lola relives her 20 minute ordeal three times, each time making different choices that lead her to different outcomes. This is clever and very cool film making, the movie darts around using different techniques including animation, black and white, slow and fast motion and amazing stills. The soundtrack is dynamic and for only 80 minutes running time, there is a lot packed in here, making it a tight and tense watch.
FINAL SAY: But in the end, isn't it always the same question? And always the same answer?
4 Chilli Peppers
DEADMAN
Release Date: 1995
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 115 mins
An American Western, written and directed by Jim Jarmusch and shot in broody black and white. This film was dubbed a 'Psychedelic Western" by Jarmusch himself and includes many surreal elements from the Western genre; some consider this film be the quintessential postmodern Western, and it has acquired a cult status as a result.
In the second half of the 19th century, an accountant named William Blake (Johnny Depp) encounters an unusual Native American called 'Nobody'. Nobody believes that Blake is actually a dead man and together they embark on a dangerous journey through the western frontier of America that has both physical and spiritual connotations.
This is intriguing viewing, Depp's transformation from mild mannered pen pusher to ruthless, hunted outlaw is fascinating to watch, and he plays his part with great energy and humour. I adored Gary Farmer's portrayal of Nobody, everything he says falls somewhere between ridiculous and ingeniously esoteric. This is a thinking man's western, often dark, sometimes comical and also poetically interesting in every way.
FINAL SAY: The eagle never lost so much time as when he submitted to learn from the crow.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1995
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 115 mins
An American Western, written and directed by Jim Jarmusch and shot in broody black and white. This film was dubbed a 'Psychedelic Western" by Jarmusch himself and includes many surreal elements from the Western genre; some consider this film be the quintessential postmodern Western, and it has acquired a cult status as a result.
In the second half of the 19th century, an accountant named William Blake (Johnny Depp) encounters an unusual Native American called 'Nobody'. Nobody believes that Blake is actually a dead man and together they embark on a dangerous journey through the western frontier of America that has both physical and spiritual connotations.
This is intriguing viewing, Depp's transformation from mild mannered pen pusher to ruthless, hunted outlaw is fascinating to watch, and he plays his part with great energy and humour. I adored Gary Farmer's portrayal of Nobody, everything he says falls somewhere between ridiculous and ingeniously esoteric. This is a thinking man's western, often dark, sometimes comical and also poetically interesting in every way.
FINAL SAY: The eagle never lost so much time as when he submitted to learn from the crow.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
NATURAL BORN KILLERS
Release Date: 1994
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 118 mins
Oliver Stone collaborates with the likes of Quentin Tarantino to make a movie that is set to get a reaction from everyone that watches it, one way or another. This movie is most certainly a visual and sensory overload, snapping from different camera styles, colour saturations and even animations, which adds to the frenetic and somewhat psychedelic tone of the film.
We follow the damaged couple Mickey and Mallory, as they travel across America on a bloody killing spree. As they move from place to place culling everyone in their path, they build a cult following and become glorified by the media.
This film is clearly having a stab at mass media's fascination with gore and violence, and our anti-hero lovers are portrayed as virtually emotionless sociopaths leaving only one person alive after each rampage to tell their tale.
Woody Harrelson and Juliette Lewis do a great job of behaving like they are genuinely unhinged, and their onscreen chemistry is convincingly strong. Credits must go to Robert Downey Jr and Tommy Lee Jones, who both give loads of ham to their awful, cheesy characters.
FINAL SAY: Naturally born bad.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1994
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 118 mins
Oliver Stone collaborates with the likes of Quentin Tarantino to make a movie that is set to get a reaction from everyone that watches it, one way or another. This movie is most certainly a visual and sensory overload, snapping from different camera styles, colour saturations and even animations, which adds to the frenetic and somewhat psychedelic tone of the film.
We follow the damaged couple Mickey and Mallory, as they travel across America on a bloody killing spree. As they move from place to place culling everyone in their path, they build a cult following and become glorified by the media.
This film is clearly having a stab at mass media's fascination with gore and violence, and our anti-hero lovers are portrayed as virtually emotionless sociopaths leaving only one person alive after each rampage to tell their tale.
Woody Harrelson and Juliette Lewis do a great job of behaving like they are genuinely unhinged, and their onscreen chemistry is convincingly strong. Credits must go to Robert Downey Jr and Tommy Lee Jones, who both give loads of ham to their awful, cheesy characters.
FINAL SAY: Naturally born bad.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE
Release Date: 1992
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 105 mins
Played out like the retelling of an old family legend, Like Water for Chocolate is based on the popular novel by Laura Esquivel and has become one of the highest grossing Spanish language films of all time. The term "Like Water for Chocolate" is common place in Mexico, and basically means that someone is boiling over with sexual desire, and there are certainly a lot of emotions on the boil in this movie.
Narrated by the main character Tita's niece, we learn of how Aunty Tita produced culinary miracles in her kitchen. Tita has the power to pour her heart and soul into her cooking, making dishes that can delight or depress, depending on her mood when she makes them. Set on 1910, Tita and Pedro are madly in love, but Tita's mother vehemently forbids that they should marry, and thus begins a lifetime of longing and unrequited love.
This is a magical movie, demonstrating a Mexican love for good food and all things of a passionate nature. It's an epic and grand love story that will have you laughing and crying along with Tita as she works through all of her emotions in the kitchen.
FINAL SAY: All things hot, spicy and delicious.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1992
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 105 mins
Played out like the retelling of an old family legend, Like Water for Chocolate is based on the popular novel by Laura Esquivel and has become one of the highest grossing Spanish language films of all time. The term "Like Water for Chocolate" is common place in Mexico, and basically means that someone is boiling over with sexual desire, and there are certainly a lot of emotions on the boil in this movie.
Narrated by the main character Tita's niece, we learn of how Aunty Tita produced culinary miracles in her kitchen. Tita has the power to pour her heart and soul into her cooking, making dishes that can delight or depress, depending on her mood when she makes them. Set on 1910, Tita and Pedro are madly in love, but Tita's mother vehemently forbids that they should marry, and thus begins a lifetime of longing and unrequited love.
This is a magical movie, demonstrating a Mexican love for good food and all things of a passionate nature. It's an epic and grand love story that will have you laughing and crying along with Tita as she works through all of her emotions in the kitchen.
FINAL SAY: All things hot, spicy and delicious.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
BARAKA & SAMSARA
Release Dates: 1992 and 2011
Rating: PG
Running Time: 96 mins and 102 mins
I think that it would be unfair to call these movies, or even documentaries, because they are neither of those things. They are a collection of short pieces of film and photography mapping the human condition, life on planet earth and spirituality from all over the globe.
There are no spoken words, only sounds and music, and sometimes there is no sound at all. We often have no idea where on earth things are being shot because the emphasis is on the experience - the what not the where.
The impact is beautiful, tragic, touching, breathtaking, disturbing and enchanting all at once, utterly unmissable cinema and a must see for everyone. Utterly superb, see the world as you have never seen it before.
FINAL SAY: Two experiences not two movies.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Dates: 1992 and 2011
Rating: PG
Running Time: 96 mins and 102 mins
I think that it would be unfair to call these movies, or even documentaries, because they are neither of those things. They are a collection of short pieces of film and photography mapping the human condition, life on planet earth and spirituality from all over the globe.
There are no spoken words, only sounds and music, and sometimes there is no sound at all. We often have no idea where on earth things are being shot because the emphasis is on the experience - the what not the where.
The impact is beautiful, tragic, touching, breathtaking, disturbing and enchanting all at once, utterly unmissable cinema and a must see for everyone. Utterly superb, see the world as you have never seen it before.
FINAL SAY: Two experiences not two movies.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
THE DOORS
Release Date: 1991
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 140 mins
Being a huge fan of The Doors is probably the reason that this film made my list, the soundtrack alone is pure gold. Directed by Oliver Stone, the film follows the events surrounding Jim Morrison, the larger-than-life lead singer of the 60's-70's band The Doors.
The movie depicts the band's rise to fame, with Jim Morrison's character placed under the microscope. Not only do we get a sense of his artistic and free-loving hippie ways, but we witness his relentless alcoholism, interest in the spiritual planes, obsession with drugs and growing fascination with death.
Val Kilmer delivers a powerhouse performance as Jim Morrison, and this is easily the best thing that I have seen him deliver to date. Meg Ryan is fine as Jim's long suffering girlfriend Pamela, and the overall cast do a decent job of getting across the frenetic, psychedelic and so often messy lifestyles that they lived as rock stars.
Due to the film's innacurate depictions of Morrison, the band, his close friends and his family did not approve of the film, so if you are chasing a more factual account of Morrison's life then you should probably see the documentary When You're a Stranger, which has original footage and factual information in regards to the band and Jim Morrison's death in 1971.
FINAL SAY: I am the Lizard King!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1991
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 140 mins
Being a huge fan of The Doors is probably the reason that this film made my list, the soundtrack alone is pure gold. Directed by Oliver Stone, the film follows the events surrounding Jim Morrison, the larger-than-life lead singer of the 60's-70's band The Doors.
The movie depicts the band's rise to fame, with Jim Morrison's character placed under the microscope. Not only do we get a sense of his artistic and free-loving hippie ways, but we witness his relentless alcoholism, interest in the spiritual planes, obsession with drugs and growing fascination with death.
Val Kilmer delivers a powerhouse performance as Jim Morrison, and this is easily the best thing that I have seen him deliver to date. Meg Ryan is fine as Jim's long suffering girlfriend Pamela, and the overall cast do a decent job of getting across the frenetic, psychedelic and so often messy lifestyles that they lived as rock stars.
Due to the film's innacurate depictions of Morrison, the band, his close friends and his family did not approve of the film, so if you are chasing a more factual account of Morrison's life then you should probably see the documentary When You're a Stranger, which has original footage and factual information in regards to the band and Jim Morrison's death in 1971.
FINAL SAY: I am the Lizard King!
3 Chilli Peppers
DELICATESSEN
Release Date: 1991
Rating: M
Running Time: 99 mins
A French language, fantasy, arthouse movie directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro that rapidly gained a cult following due to its zany storyline, colourful characters and unique point of view.
In a post apocalyptic future, a former circus performer named Louison takes up residence as a handyman at the local delicatessen/hotel. Unbeknownst to him, the butcher/landlord is regularly slaughtering his employees and selling them to the lodgers of his shady residency as meat. When Louison falls in love with the landlord's daughter, he finds himself on the chopping block very quickly indeed.
This is black humour at its blackest, delivered in a bizarre and brilliant way. This film is so visually pleasing and at times so utterly charming that it is very easy to see why it gained so much attention when it was released, it really is an original even by today's standards.
FINAL SAY: This is a job for the Australian!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1991
Rating: M
Running Time: 99 mins
A French language, fantasy, arthouse movie directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro that rapidly gained a cult following due to its zany storyline, colourful characters and unique point of view.
In a post apocalyptic future, a former circus performer named Louison takes up residence as a handyman at the local delicatessen/hotel. Unbeknownst to him, the butcher/landlord is regularly slaughtering his employees and selling them to the lodgers of his shady residency as meat. When Louison falls in love with the landlord's daughter, he finds himself on the chopping block very quickly indeed.
This is black humour at its blackest, delivered in a bizarre and brilliant way. This film is so visually pleasing and at times so utterly charming that it is very easy to see why it gained so much attention when it was released, it really is an original even by today's standards.
FINAL SAY: This is a job for the Australian!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
CRY BABY
Release Date: 1990
Rating: M
Running Time: 85 mins
A musical romance written and directed by John Waters, that is an ode to the 1950's rebel genre. A nod to a time when rock and roll music, motorcycles and leather jackets were outraging parents and setting teenage girl's hearts on fire.
Set in 1954, in Baltimore, a subculture group called the "drapes" is constantly rubbing the "squares" up the wrong way, especially when their notorious and rebellious leader "Cry Baby" Wade Walker hooks up with one of the nicest girls in town, Allison.
Johnny Depp is perfectly cast here as Cry Baby, hamming it up and playing the role of the handsome 'bad boy' juvenile delinquent with a lot of humour. And although this is just another 'why do good girls like bad boys?' love story; it is fun, fresh and quirky in the way that only John Waters movies can be.
Keep your eyes peeled for all of the cameos that pop their heads up along the way here, including Iggy Pop and even Traci Lords. This film is so odd that it actually works; don't take it seriously, just sit back and enjoy the music and the fabulous rockabilly fashions that have made this film into the cult classic that it is today.
FINAL SAY: I'm so tired of being good.
3 Chilli peppers
Release Date: 1990
Rating: M
Running Time: 85 mins
A musical romance written and directed by John Waters, that is an ode to the 1950's rebel genre. A nod to a time when rock and roll music, motorcycles and leather jackets were outraging parents and setting teenage girl's hearts on fire.
Set in 1954, in Baltimore, a subculture group called the "drapes" is constantly rubbing the "squares" up the wrong way, especially when their notorious and rebellious leader "Cry Baby" Wade Walker hooks up with one of the nicest girls in town, Allison.
Johnny Depp is perfectly cast here as Cry Baby, hamming it up and playing the role of the handsome 'bad boy' juvenile delinquent with a lot of humour. And although this is just another 'why do good girls like bad boys?' love story; it is fun, fresh and quirky in the way that only John Waters movies can be.
Keep your eyes peeled for all of the cameos that pop their heads up along the way here, including Iggy Pop and even Traci Lords. This film is so odd that it actually works; don't take it seriously, just sit back and enjoy the music and the fabulous rockabilly fashions that have made this film into the cult classic that it is today.
FINAL SAY: I'm so tired of being good.
3 Chilli peppers
WILD AT HEART
Release Date: 1990
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 125 mins
An American crime thriller written and directed by David Lynch, and based on the 1989 Barry Gifford novel of the same name. This film is essentially a road trip movie with some strange references to The Wizard of Oz. Wild at Heart was awarded the Palme d'Or at the 1990 Cannes Film Festival and although it received mostly negative critical review, it went on to become a cult classic.
When Sailor (Nicolas Cage) is released from jail, his sexy girlfriend Lula (Laura Dern) is there to collect him and hand him his snakeskin jacket. But Lula's psychopathic mother (Diane Ladd) goes insane with the idea of them being together and hires a killer to track them down. Lula and Sailor set out for California, having copious amounts of sex and meeting a series of weirdos along the way.
The goings on and the characters are so extreme in this that it makes the whole film feel surreal, something that Lynch is incredibly good at. The cast is fabulous overall, my favourite being Willem Dafoe's creepy portrayal of Bobby Peru, the biggest scumbag to ever grace the screen. It's an odd and often violently unsettling watch, but you wouldn't expect anything else from a Lynch movie.
FINAL SAY: The whole world is wild at heart, and weird on the top.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1990
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 125 mins
An American crime thriller written and directed by David Lynch, and based on the 1989 Barry Gifford novel of the same name. This film is essentially a road trip movie with some strange references to The Wizard of Oz. Wild at Heart was awarded the Palme d'Or at the 1990 Cannes Film Festival and although it received mostly negative critical review, it went on to become a cult classic.
When Sailor (Nicolas Cage) is released from jail, his sexy girlfriend Lula (Laura Dern) is there to collect him and hand him his snakeskin jacket. But Lula's psychopathic mother (Diane Ladd) goes insane with the idea of them being together and hires a killer to track them down. Lula and Sailor set out for California, having copious amounts of sex and meeting a series of weirdos along the way.
The goings on and the characters are so extreme in this that it makes the whole film feel surreal, something that Lynch is incredibly good at. The cast is fabulous overall, my favourite being Willem Dafoe's creepy portrayal of Bobby Peru, the biggest scumbag to ever grace the screen. It's an odd and often violently unsettling watch, but you wouldn't expect anything else from a Lynch movie.
FINAL SAY: The whole world is wild at heart, and weird on the top.
3 Chilli Peppers
LA FEMME NIKITA
Release Date: 1990
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 117 mins
A smart, sexy, tough-love tale about a woman that is transformed from a violent street hood into a ruthless assassin. In a modern adaption of Pygmalion, director Luc Besson creates a symphony of violence and romance with this French language film that perfectly portrays a bitter-sweet transformation process.
Streetwise Nikita (Anne Parillaud) finds herself in jail after shooting a police officer. She is given the chance to escape execution if she agrees to be trained as a covert government assassin, a role that will change her as a person and also as a woman. Her moral compass becomes tested when she falls in love; which unleashes a softer side of herself, and compromises her ability to deliver on her job.
There is a great sense of female empowerment and self discovery in this film which I thoroughly enjoyed. I really love that Luc Besson often has transcending heroines in his movies, it is always refreshing to see directors that are willing to take on less conventional story lines, because they are so valuable and yet so under-developed.
Anne Parillaud is a sexy power-house as Nikita, playing her role with great conviction both physically and emotionally, and really giving this film it's undeniably strong heartbeat.
FINAL SAY: There are two things that are infinite: femininity and the means to take advantage of it.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1990
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 117 mins
A smart, sexy, tough-love tale about a woman that is transformed from a violent street hood into a ruthless assassin. In a modern adaption of Pygmalion, director Luc Besson creates a symphony of violence and romance with this French language film that perfectly portrays a bitter-sweet transformation process.
Streetwise Nikita (Anne Parillaud) finds herself in jail after shooting a police officer. She is given the chance to escape execution if she agrees to be trained as a covert government assassin, a role that will change her as a person and also as a woman. Her moral compass becomes tested when she falls in love; which unleashes a softer side of herself, and compromises her ability to deliver on her job.
There is a great sense of female empowerment and self discovery in this film which I thoroughly enjoyed. I really love that Luc Besson often has transcending heroines in his movies, it is always refreshing to see directors that are willing to take on less conventional story lines, because they are so valuable and yet so under-developed.
Anne Parillaud is a sexy power-house as Nikita, playing her role with great conviction both physically and emotionally, and really giving this film it's undeniably strong heartbeat.
FINAL SAY: There are two things that are infinite: femininity and the means to take advantage of it.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE BIG BLUE (LE GRAND BLEU)
Release Date: 1988
Rating: PG
Running Time: 168 mins
This movie really fascinated me. Directed by Luc Besson, this French language film is a fictionalised recount of the lives of two contemporary champion free divers: Jacques Mayol and Enzo Maiorca. There is a mystical and incredibly beautiful element to the film that is both visually and emotionally pleasing; filmed in stunning exotic locations across the globe including the French Antibes, the Greek Islands, Peru and Taormina in Sicily, it is easy to see why The Big Blue went onto become a cult classic.
Jacques (Jean-Marc Barr) and Enzo (Jean Reno) have known each other since childhood, sharing the same passion for freediving. As adults, Jacques has an almost dolphin like ability to stay under the water for unprecedented lengths of time, and Enzo has since gone on to become the freediving world champion. Eventually the two men meet up again to determine who really is the best free diver, with both men pushing themselves into extremely dangerous territory.
Jean-Marc Barr is insanely beautiful as the mystical character Jacques, Jean Reno is excellent as Enzo and Rosanna Arquette does a decent job of portraying Jean-Marc's fictionalised girlfriend Johana, but her role essentially feels like it was just created to add more punch to the possibility of Jacques being more than just human.
This is a visual feast for your eyes, the underwater cinematography is utterly captivating and the sound of the sea will stay with you for days after. Let the ocean sweep you away, watch it in the dark on a big screen, and delight!
FINAL SAY: You go down to the bottom of the sea, where the water isn't even blue anymore, where the sky is only a memory, and you float there, in the silence.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1988
Rating: PG
Running Time: 168 mins
This movie really fascinated me. Directed by Luc Besson, this French language film is a fictionalised recount of the lives of two contemporary champion free divers: Jacques Mayol and Enzo Maiorca. There is a mystical and incredibly beautiful element to the film that is both visually and emotionally pleasing; filmed in stunning exotic locations across the globe including the French Antibes, the Greek Islands, Peru and Taormina in Sicily, it is easy to see why The Big Blue went onto become a cult classic.
Jacques (Jean-Marc Barr) and Enzo (Jean Reno) have known each other since childhood, sharing the same passion for freediving. As adults, Jacques has an almost dolphin like ability to stay under the water for unprecedented lengths of time, and Enzo has since gone on to become the freediving world champion. Eventually the two men meet up again to determine who really is the best free diver, with both men pushing themselves into extremely dangerous territory.
Jean-Marc Barr is insanely beautiful as the mystical character Jacques, Jean Reno is excellent as Enzo and Rosanna Arquette does a decent job of portraying Jean-Marc's fictionalised girlfriend Johana, but her role essentially feels like it was just created to add more punch to the possibility of Jacques being more than just human.
This is a visual feast for your eyes, the underwater cinematography is utterly captivating and the sound of the sea will stay with you for days after. Let the ocean sweep you away, watch it in the dark on a big screen, and delight!
FINAL SAY: You go down to the bottom of the sea, where the water isn't even blue anymore, where the sky is only a memory, and you float there, in the silence.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE LAST TEMPTATION OF CHRIST
Release Date: 1988
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 164 mins
Based on the controversial 1953 novel of the same name by Nikos Kazantzakis and directed by Martin Scorsese, The Last Temptation of Christ ruffled more than a few Christian feathers with it's unique depiction of the life of Jesus Christ. In the movie, Christ sees himself struggling with temptations of the human condition, from fear and doubt to reluctance and lust. This is a story that is clearly removed from the traditional teachings of the Gospel and commonly accepted biblical portrayals of Christ's life, but certainly not a less worthy version in my view.
We follow Jesus of Nazareth from his humble beginnings as a carpenter in Roman-occupied Judea until the end of his life when he is crucified and meets his final temptation.
I think that the depictions of Jesus' sexual relationship with the prostitute Mary Magdalene, and the imagery of the devil may have been the main force behind a lot of the controversy surrounding the movie. I however, thought that this was a tastefully put together body of work, and a beautifully spiritual retelling of Jesus' life.
The cast is amazing; Willem Dafoe is astounding as Jesus Christ, Harvey Keitel is fabulous as Judas and Barbara Hershey is superb as Mary Magdalene. The soundtrack, composed by Peter Gabriel, is hauntingly beautiful and was nominated for both a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award for Best Original Score in a Motion Picture. In 1990, the soundtrack won a Grammy for Best New Age Album.
If you are hypersensitive about the Gospels, then you probably aren't going to hire a film like this anyway, but if you are open minded to hearing stories about the life of Christ, then I highly recommend that you take the time to see this movie.
FINAL SAY: If I was a woodcutter, I'd cut. If I was a fire, I'd burn. But I'm a heart and I love. That's the only thing that I can do.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1988
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 164 mins
Based on the controversial 1953 novel of the same name by Nikos Kazantzakis and directed by Martin Scorsese, The Last Temptation of Christ ruffled more than a few Christian feathers with it's unique depiction of the life of Jesus Christ. In the movie, Christ sees himself struggling with temptations of the human condition, from fear and doubt to reluctance and lust. This is a story that is clearly removed from the traditional teachings of the Gospel and commonly accepted biblical portrayals of Christ's life, but certainly not a less worthy version in my view.
We follow Jesus of Nazareth from his humble beginnings as a carpenter in Roman-occupied Judea until the end of his life when he is crucified and meets his final temptation.
I think that the depictions of Jesus' sexual relationship with the prostitute Mary Magdalene, and the imagery of the devil may have been the main force behind a lot of the controversy surrounding the movie. I however, thought that this was a tastefully put together body of work, and a beautifully spiritual retelling of Jesus' life.
The cast is amazing; Willem Dafoe is astounding as Jesus Christ, Harvey Keitel is fabulous as Judas and Barbara Hershey is superb as Mary Magdalene. The soundtrack, composed by Peter Gabriel, is hauntingly beautiful and was nominated for both a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award for Best Original Score in a Motion Picture. In 1990, the soundtrack won a Grammy for Best New Age Album.
If you are hypersensitive about the Gospels, then you probably aren't going to hire a film like this anyway, but if you are open minded to hearing stories about the life of Christ, then I highly recommend that you take the time to see this movie.
FINAL SAY: If I was a woodcutter, I'd cut. If I was a fire, I'd burn. But I'm a heart and I love. That's the only thing that I can do.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
AKIRA
Release Date: 1988
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 124 mins
This Japanese animated post-apocalyptic action film is widely considered to be one of the best science fiction animation films of all time. Directed by Katsuhiro Ohtomo who also wrote the film with Izo Hashimoto, Akira was pivotal in launching the Japanese cyberpunk subgenre and had a massive impact on popular culture worldwide, paving the way for the growth of anime and Japanese pop culture in the Western world.
It is 2019, 31 years after the nuking of Tokyo and another threat is looming. After a secret military project goes wrong, a rogue biker gang member discovers that he has been altered and is unable to manage the extraordinary changes that are happening to him. A few brave teenagers and a group of child psychics attempt to stop the threat and restore order to the already torn down city.
Akira is a dark and violent offering that is both visually pleasing and dazzlingly original in it's presentation. The age of this movie has not affected its impact at all and although it is insanely convoluted and incredibly strange, it is also a visionary work of art that deserves at least one viewing in everyone's lifetime.
FINAL SAY: There must be a future that we can choose for ourselves.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1988
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 124 mins
This Japanese animated post-apocalyptic action film is widely considered to be one of the best science fiction animation films of all time. Directed by Katsuhiro Ohtomo who also wrote the film with Izo Hashimoto, Akira was pivotal in launching the Japanese cyberpunk subgenre and had a massive impact on popular culture worldwide, paving the way for the growth of anime and Japanese pop culture in the Western world.
It is 2019, 31 years after the nuking of Tokyo and another threat is looming. After a secret military project goes wrong, a rogue biker gang member discovers that he has been altered and is unable to manage the extraordinary changes that are happening to him. A few brave teenagers and a group of child psychics attempt to stop the threat and restore order to the already torn down city.
Akira is a dark and violent offering that is both visually pleasing and dazzlingly original in it's presentation. The age of this movie has not affected its impact at all and although it is insanely convoluted and incredibly strange, it is also a visionary work of art that deserves at least one viewing in everyone's lifetime.
FINAL SAY: There must be a future that we can choose for ourselves.
4 Chilli Peppers
CINEMA PARADISO
Release Date: 1988
Rating: M
Running Time: 155 mins
Nuovo Cinema Paradiso (translating as New Paradise Cinema) is an Italian drama written and directed by Giuseppe Tornatore. Cinema Paradiso has been credited with reviving Italy's film industry and was awarded the Best Foreign Film Academy Award in 1989. It has gone on to huge critical acclaim and was listed #27 in Empire magazines 100 Best Films of World Cinema in 2010.
A famous film director - Salvatore Toto Di Vita, recalls the events of his childhood when Alfredo, a dear old friend that he made through the Cinema Paradiso, passes away. It was through Alfredo the projectionist, that Toto began his love of cinema and he feels compelled to return to his home town of Sicily for the funeral. However, after 30 years of absence, things have changed and there are still some important secrets that have not yet been revealed.
This is a must see classic movie, an epic and a fine example of great movie making. It really highlights the wonder of escaping your less fortunate realities to lose yourself in cinema, and for that reason it spoke volumes to me. I loved it from start to end, especially the end, but I'm not going to spoil that for anyone - see it for yourself.
FINAL SAY: Life isn't like it is in the movies. Life.... is much harder.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1988
Rating: M
Running Time: 155 mins
Nuovo Cinema Paradiso (translating as New Paradise Cinema) is an Italian drama written and directed by Giuseppe Tornatore. Cinema Paradiso has been credited with reviving Italy's film industry and was awarded the Best Foreign Film Academy Award in 1989. It has gone on to huge critical acclaim and was listed #27 in Empire magazines 100 Best Films of World Cinema in 2010.
A famous film director - Salvatore Toto Di Vita, recalls the events of his childhood when Alfredo, a dear old friend that he made through the Cinema Paradiso, passes away. It was through Alfredo the projectionist, that Toto began his love of cinema and he feels compelled to return to his home town of Sicily for the funeral. However, after 30 years of absence, things have changed and there are still some important secrets that have not yet been revealed.
This is a must see classic movie, an epic and a fine example of great movie making. It really highlights the wonder of escaping your less fortunate realities to lose yourself in cinema, and for that reason it spoke volumes to me. I loved it from start to end, especially the end, but I'm not going to spoil that for anyone - see it for yourself.
FINAL SAY: Life isn't like it is in the movies. Life.... is much harder.
4 Chilli Peppers
BABETTE'S FEAST
Release Date: 1987
Rating: G
Running Time: 103 mins
A Danish drama film directed by Gabriel Axel and the first Danish film to win an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film. Steeped in charm and delivered with a melancholic undertone, Babette's Feast is a timeless Scandinavian film that explores relationships, passions and devotion.
In the late 19th century, two pious sisters in a Danish village have their lives changed forever when they take in a French refugee called Babette. Babette, who works for the sisters as a servant, comes into a large sum of money and wants to repay the sisters for their generosity by cooking a feast for them and their friends. But this is no ordinary feast, and the strictly religious community is about to experience something new and transformative.
This film nourishes the senses completely, it is delightful and profound and utterly unforgettable. Stephanie Audran is mesmerising as Babette and the entire experience of this film is genuinely moving and lovely. Babette's Feast is a film that should not be missed.
FINAL SAY: An artist is never poor.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1987
Rating: G
Running Time: 103 mins
A Danish drama film directed by Gabriel Axel and the first Danish film to win an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film. Steeped in charm and delivered with a melancholic undertone, Babette's Feast is a timeless Scandinavian film that explores relationships, passions and devotion.
In the late 19th century, two pious sisters in a Danish village have their lives changed forever when they take in a French refugee called Babette. Babette, who works for the sisters as a servant, comes into a large sum of money and wants to repay the sisters for their generosity by cooking a feast for them and their friends. But this is no ordinary feast, and the strictly religious community is about to experience something new and transformative.
This film nourishes the senses completely, it is delightful and profound and utterly unforgettable. Stephanie Audran is mesmerising as Babette and the entire experience of this film is genuinely moving and lovely. Babette's Feast is a film that should not be missed.
FINAL SAY: An artist is never poor.
4 Chilli Peppers
JEAN DE FLORETTE
MANON DES SOURCES
(JEAN DE FLORETTE PT 2)
Release Dates: 1986
Rating: PG
Running Times: 120 mins and 113 mins
Two epic French period dramas, based on the novels by Marcel Pagnol, and set in rural Province where the land means everything to its people. Lovingly directed by Claude Berri, these are fabulously enjoyable movies, with a great mix of wonderful and terrible characters.
The first instalment tells the story of Jean de Florette (Gerard Depardieu), a book-smart hunchback that inherits a farming estate from his mother and attempts to farm it against the elements and his scheming neighbours. The second instalment tells the story of Jean de Florette's daughter, Manon (Emmanuelle Beart), a beautiful wild girl that sets about exposing the truth behind her father's demise and the role that the locals played in his death.
The best thing about these films is the authenticity, there is nothing frilly or fancy going on, this is just a realistic depiction of rural life in a simple country village. The stunningly beautiful French landscapes will leave you longing for a holiday and craving the summer, and the characters (well, some of them) will have you enchanted with their longings and desires for the simple things in life. There are some particularly unscrupulous characters to boo at along the way, and essentially this is a tragic story about greed and revenge more than anything else, but it is also a fine depiction of human behaviour at it's best and it's worst.
FINAL SAY: When you live on a farm, water is life.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
MANON DES SOURCES
(JEAN DE FLORETTE PT 2)
Release Dates: 1986
Rating: PG
Running Times: 120 mins and 113 mins
Two epic French period dramas, based on the novels by Marcel Pagnol, and set in rural Province where the land means everything to its people. Lovingly directed by Claude Berri, these are fabulously enjoyable movies, with a great mix of wonderful and terrible characters.
The first instalment tells the story of Jean de Florette (Gerard Depardieu), a book-smart hunchback that inherits a farming estate from his mother and attempts to farm it against the elements and his scheming neighbours. The second instalment tells the story of Jean de Florette's daughter, Manon (Emmanuelle Beart), a beautiful wild girl that sets about exposing the truth behind her father's demise and the role that the locals played in his death.
The best thing about these films is the authenticity, there is nothing frilly or fancy going on, this is just a realistic depiction of rural life in a simple country village. The stunningly beautiful French landscapes will leave you longing for a holiday and craving the summer, and the characters (well, some of them) will have you enchanted with their longings and desires for the simple things in life. There are some particularly unscrupulous characters to boo at along the way, and essentially this is a tragic story about greed and revenge more than anything else, but it is also a fine depiction of human behaviour at it's best and it's worst.
FINAL SAY: When you live on a farm, water is life.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
BETTY BLUE
Release Date: 1986
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
This French language film by director Jean-Jacques Beineix verges into the realms of gritty with it's disturbing portrayal of mental illness.
A handyman and maintenance guy named Zorg lives a quiet and peaceful existence; until he meets Betty. Betty is sexy, wild and utterly unpredictable and Zorg becomes fascinated with her. But the more time that Zorg that spends with Betty, the quicker that he realizes that she is actually insane and totally out of control.
Beatrice Dalle is hauntingly beautiful and disturbed as Betty; and in short this movie will leave you feeling a bit battered after the effect. Not a pretty ride.
FINAL SAY: The forecast was for storms.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1986
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
This French language film by director Jean-Jacques Beineix verges into the realms of gritty with it's disturbing portrayal of mental illness.
A handyman and maintenance guy named Zorg lives a quiet and peaceful existence; until he meets Betty. Betty is sexy, wild and utterly unpredictable and Zorg becomes fascinated with her. But the more time that Zorg that spends with Betty, the quicker that he realizes that she is actually insane and totally out of control.
Beatrice Dalle is hauntingly beautiful and disturbed as Betty; and in short this movie will leave you feeling a bit battered after the effect. Not a pretty ride.
FINAL SAY: The forecast was for storms.
3 Chilli Peppers
BLUE VELVET
Release Date: 1986
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
A gripping neo-noir thriller that was written and directed by David Lynch and blends together all of the disturbing twists of a psychological horror with an arthouse-noir mystique. Although at times deeply shocking, which is often the case with Lynch films, Blue Velvet also delivers something so unique and art like that it really needs to be seen to be believed.
When his father suffers a near fatal stroke, Jeffrey Beaumont returns home to North Carolina. Walking home from the hospital he discovers a severed human ear, which eventually leads Jeffrey becoming entangled in the life of Dorothy, a complicated singer at a club called Blue Velvet.
There are more weird twists than a raspberry liquorice strap and more strange interludes than most people seemed to be able to handle since this film divided audiences and critics alike. Yes it's salacious, yes it's violent but it is also ponderous, vulnerable, emotional and deeply memorable. And in spite of its serious oddness, Kyle McLachlan, Isabella Rossellini, Laura Dern and Dennis Hopper are all at their best here delivering what I would call a noir cult classic that is worthy of at least one viewing in everyone's lifetime.
FINAL SAY: The candy-coloured clown they call the Sandman.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1986
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
A gripping neo-noir thriller that was written and directed by David Lynch and blends together all of the disturbing twists of a psychological horror with an arthouse-noir mystique. Although at times deeply shocking, which is often the case with Lynch films, Blue Velvet also delivers something so unique and art like that it really needs to be seen to be believed.
When his father suffers a near fatal stroke, Jeffrey Beaumont returns home to North Carolina. Walking home from the hospital he discovers a severed human ear, which eventually leads Jeffrey becoming entangled in the life of Dorothy, a complicated singer at a club called Blue Velvet.
There are more weird twists than a raspberry liquorice strap and more strange interludes than most people seemed to be able to handle since this film divided audiences and critics alike. Yes it's salacious, yes it's violent but it is also ponderous, vulnerable, emotional and deeply memorable. And in spite of its serious oddness, Kyle McLachlan, Isabella Rossellini, Laura Dern and Dennis Hopper are all at their best here delivering what I would call a noir cult classic that is worthy of at least one viewing in everyone's lifetime.
FINAL SAY: The candy-coloured clown they call the Sandman.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
PINK FLOYD - THE WALL
Release Date: 1982
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 95 mins
A mixture of live action visuals speckled with various styles of animation, Pink Floyd - The Wall delivers an assault to the senses with its extraordinary surrealist soundtrack and controversial and political storyline. The movie delves head first into some emotionally and challenging territory by exploring themes of rejection, depression, oppression and exploitation, in startling and creative ways.
Rock star Pink is driven to madness by the pressures of his stardom and the traumatic events of his life. In order to survive he constructs an emotional and mental wall around himself, which leaves him numb and seeking escape.
Pink Floyd - The Wall is truly timeless, I've seen it at least once every decade since I was 15 and every time that I see it, I experience the material in a new way, and I can assure you that the message that it delivers is no less affecting now than it was in the '80s.
A very young Bob Geldof plays Pink with a convincing level of mania and the entire experience is unforgettably affecting and also disturbing in the most psychedelic ways; it's a definite must see movie experience that you won't forget in a hurry.
FINAL SAY: I have become comfortably numb.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1982
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 95 mins
A mixture of live action visuals speckled with various styles of animation, Pink Floyd - The Wall delivers an assault to the senses with its extraordinary surrealist soundtrack and controversial and political storyline. The movie delves head first into some emotionally and challenging territory by exploring themes of rejection, depression, oppression and exploitation, in startling and creative ways.
Rock star Pink is driven to madness by the pressures of his stardom and the traumatic events of his life. In order to survive he constructs an emotional and mental wall around himself, which leaves him numb and seeking escape.
Pink Floyd - The Wall is truly timeless, I've seen it at least once every decade since I was 15 and every time that I see it, I experience the material in a new way, and I can assure you that the message that it delivers is no less affecting now than it was in the '80s.
A very young Bob Geldof plays Pink with a convincing level of mania and the entire experience is unforgettably affecting and also disturbing in the most psychedelic ways; it's a definite must see movie experience that you won't forget in a hurry.
FINAL SAY: I have become comfortably numb.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE BLUES BROTHERS
Release Date: 1980
Rating: M
Running Time: 133 mins
An American musical comedy directed by John Landis that has since become a cult classic. In 2020, The Blues Brothers was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically or aesthetically significant."
Jake Blues is finally reunited with his brother Elwood after being released from prison. However, the brothers soon discover that the catholic home they were raised in is about to be closed. Determined to save it, they plan to throw a huge benefit concert. But first, they have to get the old band back together and embark on a wild, police chasing, road trip to make that happen.
Originally a skit on Saturday Night Live, The Blues Brothers is a virtual who's who of Blues and Soul music and features musical performances from James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles and John Lee Hooker to name but a few. And if you don't get a lot out of the storyline here, that's okay; the energetic and lively soundtrack makes this worth seeing on its own.
John Belushi is at his absolute best here and even Dan Aykroyd, whom I am not a big of, manages to impress. Sure it's utterly implausible and deeply silly and makes very little sense at all, but it does rock very hard, and for that reason, it's definitely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: We're on a mission from God.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1980
Rating: M
Running Time: 133 mins
An American musical comedy directed by John Landis that has since become a cult classic. In 2020, The Blues Brothers was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically or aesthetically significant."
Jake Blues is finally reunited with his brother Elwood after being released from prison. However, the brothers soon discover that the catholic home they were raised in is about to be closed. Determined to save it, they plan to throw a huge benefit concert. But first, they have to get the old band back together and embark on a wild, police chasing, road trip to make that happen.
Originally a skit on Saturday Night Live, The Blues Brothers is a virtual who's who of Blues and Soul music and features musical performances from James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles and John Lee Hooker to name but a few. And if you don't get a lot out of the storyline here, that's okay; the energetic and lively soundtrack makes this worth seeing on its own.
John Belushi is at his absolute best here and even Dan Aykroyd, whom I am not a big of, manages to impress. Sure it's utterly implausible and deeply silly and makes very little sense at all, but it does rock very hard, and for that reason, it's definitely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: We're on a mission from God.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE WAGES OF FEAR
Release Date: 1953
Rating: M
Running Time: 131 mins
It's gripping suspense and nail biting drama all the way with this French language film from director Henri-Georges Clouzot. Set in a backwater town in Latin America, this film has plenty to say about about the desperate and dangerous conditions of the times, both politically and socially, and plays out with incredible suspense. Together with Diabolique, The Wages of Fear earned Clouzot a reputation as a French- Hitchcock.
Four men, desperate to earn a wage, undertake a suicide mission to transport two truck loads of nitroglycerin across insanely treacherous terrain for The Southern Oil Company.
It's one challenge after another as the men push themselves physically and mentally to deliver the pay load, all of them succumbing in one way or another to the pressure. This is certainly a high tension thriller that continues to turn the screws right to the end, it's truly riveting material.
FINAL SAY: When I was a kid, I used to see men go off on this kind of job...and not come back.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1953
Rating: M
Running Time: 131 mins
It's gripping suspense and nail biting drama all the way with this French language film from director Henri-Georges Clouzot. Set in a backwater town in Latin America, this film has plenty to say about about the desperate and dangerous conditions of the times, both politically and socially, and plays out with incredible suspense. Together with Diabolique, The Wages of Fear earned Clouzot a reputation as a French- Hitchcock.
Four men, desperate to earn a wage, undertake a suicide mission to transport two truck loads of nitroglycerin across insanely treacherous terrain for The Southern Oil Company.
It's one challenge after another as the men push themselves physically and mentally to deliver the pay load, all of them succumbing in one way or another to the pressure. This is certainly a high tension thriller that continues to turn the screws right to the end, it's truly riveting material.
FINAL SAY: When I was a kid, I used to see men go off on this kind of job...and not come back.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE BICYCLE THIEF
Release Date: 1949
Rating: PG
Running Time: 93 mins
This must see Italian neorealist movie directed by Vittorio De Sica is a masterpiece of cinema that speaks volumes about the human condition in Rome post World War II. The Bicycle Thief has received a swag of awards since its release some 65+ years ago, and it was ranked #4 in Empire magazines "The 100 Best Films of World Cinema" in 2010.
During the depression of Post-WWII, Ricci has found himself a job that will help him to support his wife, son and baby. However, when Ricci's bicycle is stolen he faces the grim possibility of life without a job again and this desperation leads him to desperate measures.
This is heart wrenching stuff, set amid the clearly war torn backdrop of Post War Rome. The performances are passionate, emotional and deeply stirring; it's an altogether moving experience that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.
FINAL SAY: You live and you suffer.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1949
Rating: PG
Running Time: 93 mins
This must see Italian neorealist movie directed by Vittorio De Sica is a masterpiece of cinema that speaks volumes about the human condition in Rome post World War II. The Bicycle Thief has received a swag of awards since its release some 65+ years ago, and it was ranked #4 in Empire magazines "The 100 Best Films of World Cinema" in 2010.
During the depression of Post-WWII, Ricci has found himself a job that will help him to support his wife, son and baby. However, when Ricci's bicycle is stolen he faces the grim possibility of life without a job again and this desperation leads him to desperate measures.
This is heart wrenching stuff, set amid the clearly war torn backdrop of Post War Rome. The performances are passionate, emotional and deeply stirring; it's an altogether moving experience that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.
FINAL SAY: You live and you suffer.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
THE CABINET OF DR. CALIGARI
Release Date: 1920
Rating: PG
Running Time: 67 mins
Considered the quintessential work of German Expressionist cinema, this classic silent movie is arguably the first horror film to have ever been made, and although it may not have the same clout that it had back in it's day, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari still has punch when it comes to unnerving its audience.
A man retells his horrifying experiences after meeting Dr. Caligari at a town fair. Dr Caligari has a cabinet that contains a creepy somnambulisat that can predict the future, but Dr. Caligari's arrival has also brought about a series of grisly murders to the town.
There is a stark and twisted visual style to this movie that is absolutely amazing. Sets are askew, landscapes are jagged and the characters are all ghostly white with big black eyes. It is easy to see where Tim Burton may have gotten inspiration, because the odd angles and oblique lines are uncannily similar.
Since you can watch the entire movie on YouTube for free these days, there is no excuse for not having seen this masterpiece of German cinema. I think it is a movie that everyone should make an effort to see for its vision and uniqueness, there really is nothing else like it.
FINAL SAY: Dr. Caligari, you are one twisted sicko!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1920
Rating: PG
Running Time: 67 mins
Considered the quintessential work of German Expressionist cinema, this classic silent movie is arguably the first horror film to have ever been made, and although it may not have the same clout that it had back in it's day, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari still has punch when it comes to unnerving its audience.
A man retells his horrifying experiences after meeting Dr. Caligari at a town fair. Dr Caligari has a cabinet that contains a creepy somnambulisat that can predict the future, but Dr. Caligari's arrival has also brought about a series of grisly murders to the town.
There is a stark and twisted visual style to this movie that is absolutely amazing. Sets are askew, landscapes are jagged and the characters are all ghostly white with big black eyes. It is easy to see where Tim Burton may have gotten inspiration, because the odd angles and oblique lines are uncannily similar.
Since you can watch the entire movie on YouTube for free these days, there is no excuse for not having seen this masterpiece of German cinema. I think it is a movie that everyone should make an effort to see for its vision and uniqueness, there really is nothing else like it.
FINAL SAY: Dr. Caligari, you are one twisted sicko!
3.5 Chilli Peppers