BITE DOWN ON THIS
THE COFFEE TABLE
Release: 2022
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 91 mins
Some movies stick with you in an unshakable way, and The Coffee Table certainly does that; for all the wrong reasons. This disturbing, Spanish language, black-comedy delivers the darkest humour you'll find in any movie anywhere, and it packs such a punch that you'll be left gobsmacked and potentially traumatised if you make it to the final credits.
New parents Jesus and Maria decide to purchase a coffee table; an unbreakable wonder that will change their lives forever.
This is a superbly acted film, which is probably why it has so much impact. However, the storyline is definitely not for the faint hearted and I feel that it is only fair to warn potential viewers that this movie had a phenomenal amount of walk outs at the cinema and does tend to trigger and upset many people, so go in expecting to be horrified, 'cause it's a hell of a ride!
FINAL SAY: This glass is unbreakable, so your table will last forever.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release: 2022
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 91 mins
Some movies stick with you in an unshakable way, and The Coffee Table certainly does that; for all the wrong reasons. This disturbing, Spanish language, black-comedy delivers the darkest humour you'll find in any movie anywhere, and it packs such a punch that you'll be left gobsmacked and potentially traumatised if you make it to the final credits.
New parents Jesus and Maria decide to purchase a coffee table; an unbreakable wonder that will change their lives forever.
This is a superbly acted film, which is probably why it has so much impact. However, the storyline is definitely not for the faint hearted and I feel that it is only fair to warn potential viewers that this movie had a phenomenal amount of walk outs at the cinema and does tend to trigger and upset many people, so go in expecting to be horrified, 'cause it's a hell of a ride!
FINAL SAY: This glass is unbreakable, so your table will last forever.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
WILDCAT
Release: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running time: 106 mins
A compelling and touching documentary film about an animal rescue team that are based in the remote Amazon jungle of Peru. Directed by Trevor Frost and Melissa Lesh, Wildcat delivers an affecting testament to the incredible healing power that animals can have upon traumatised humans.
Harry Turner is a British War veteran that has returned from Afghanistan with severe post trauma. Between self harming and bouts of depression, Harry sees little purpose in life, that is until he meets American wildlife biologist Samantha Zwicker and joins her in the Amazon jungle at a wildlife rescue base. The pair form a close bond in the wild as they attempt to rescue all manner of native creatures from poachers. And then one day, the couple are given a baby ocelot that was found inside of a felled tree trunk, and their lives become changed forever.
Between the remarkable animal footage, the gorgeous relationships that are forged between the struggling creatures and their human rescuers and the sensitive and emotional roller-coaster that these two damaged people deal with daily, this film will get to you. I cried more than once whilst I watched this, it's intelligent and emotional in all the best ways.
FINAL SAY: Do we save the animals or do they save us?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release: 2022
Rating: MA 15+
Running time: 106 mins
A compelling and touching documentary film about an animal rescue team that are based in the remote Amazon jungle of Peru. Directed by Trevor Frost and Melissa Lesh, Wildcat delivers an affecting testament to the incredible healing power that animals can have upon traumatised humans.
Harry Turner is a British War veteran that has returned from Afghanistan with severe post trauma. Between self harming and bouts of depression, Harry sees little purpose in life, that is until he meets American wildlife biologist Samantha Zwicker and joins her in the Amazon jungle at a wildlife rescue base. The pair form a close bond in the wild as they attempt to rescue all manner of native creatures from poachers. And then one day, the couple are given a baby ocelot that was found inside of a felled tree trunk, and their lives become changed forever.
Between the remarkable animal footage, the gorgeous relationships that are forged between the struggling creatures and their human rescuers and the sensitive and emotional roller-coaster that these two damaged people deal with daily, this film will get to you. I cried more than once whilst I watched this, it's intelligent and emotional in all the best ways.
FINAL SAY: Do we save the animals or do they save us?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
BLONDE
Release Date: 2022
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 166 mins
Marilyn Monroe is famous for her bombshell persona and her intoxicating, glossy-lipped smiles, but behind the veil, we all know that Norma Jean was actually a very sad woman with a haunted and traumatic past. Blonde is certainly not like any other story about Marilyn Monroe that we have seen in the past, this is a gritty, fictionalised, retell of her life and career that completely polarized critics with its graphic and shocking depictions of the Hollywood starlet and glamourous icon in dreadful and dehumanising situations.
Written and directed by Andrew Dominik and based on the novel of the same name by Joyce Carol Oates, Blonde hits so hard that it's no wonder the critics saw stars. This is not a pleasant watch, it's a controversial romp into the tragic demise of a very beautiful woman. The story here is nothing new, we know all too well that Hollywood chews up young and attractive individuals and then spits them back out, however teamed with her desperately sad upbringing and clearly vulnerable and unstable mental wellness, this is tough going from the heart-breaking beginning to the depressingly lonely end.
Ana de Armas is a powerhouse as Norma Jean, delivering buckets of beauty and a bewildering level of emotion to the role. She is well supported by Adrien Brody, Bobby Cannavale and Julianne Nicholson but manages to eclipse them all with her amazing portrayal.
The soundtrack, which was composed and performed by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis is perfectly haunting, and the blend of real life footage of Marilyn Monroe speckled throughout also adds greatly to the impact of the film. I found this deeply effecting and having actually seen some newly released private photographs of Marilyn Monroe at an exhibition, I can honestly say that she did always look distressingly sad in those private shots.
FINAL SAY: Anyway, isn't all love based on delusion?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2022
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 166 mins
Marilyn Monroe is famous for her bombshell persona and her intoxicating, glossy-lipped smiles, but behind the veil, we all know that Norma Jean was actually a very sad woman with a haunted and traumatic past. Blonde is certainly not like any other story about Marilyn Monroe that we have seen in the past, this is a gritty, fictionalised, retell of her life and career that completely polarized critics with its graphic and shocking depictions of the Hollywood starlet and glamourous icon in dreadful and dehumanising situations.
Written and directed by Andrew Dominik and based on the novel of the same name by Joyce Carol Oates, Blonde hits so hard that it's no wonder the critics saw stars. This is not a pleasant watch, it's a controversial romp into the tragic demise of a very beautiful woman. The story here is nothing new, we know all too well that Hollywood chews up young and attractive individuals and then spits them back out, however teamed with her desperately sad upbringing and clearly vulnerable and unstable mental wellness, this is tough going from the heart-breaking beginning to the depressingly lonely end.
Ana de Armas is a powerhouse as Norma Jean, delivering buckets of beauty and a bewildering level of emotion to the role. She is well supported by Adrien Brody, Bobby Cannavale and Julianne Nicholson but manages to eclipse them all with her amazing portrayal.
The soundtrack, which was composed and performed by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis is perfectly haunting, and the blend of real life footage of Marilyn Monroe speckled throughout also adds greatly to the impact of the film. I found this deeply effecting and having actually seen some newly released private photographs of Marilyn Monroe at an exhibition, I can honestly say that she did always look distressingly sad in those private shots.
FINAL SAY: Anyway, isn't all love based on delusion?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
NITRAM
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 112 mins
An Australian biographical, psychological drama directed by Justin Kurzel from a screenplay by Shaun Grant that really drives home the need for better support around people with intellectual disabilities and anti-social behaviours. I found this movie very affecting for several reasons, and although the material is of a sensitive nature, I do believe that this is a story that needs to be told and deserves to be heard.
Nitram (Martin spelled backwards) is a young man who is struggling with his disability and his sense of belonging in society. He is disgruntled at home with his parents when he meets eccentric Helen, a retired actress and wealthy heiress and the two soon form a close bond. However, after a fatal car accident Nitram again finds himself alone, and although wealthy after inheriting all of Helen's fortune, he quickly spirals out of control and becomes obsessed with dangerous and harmful obsessions.
This film essentially documents the events that lead up to the horrific 1996 Port Arthur massacre in Tasmania. Nitram attempts to help us understand why and how the atrocity occurred. It isn't a pleasant watch, it does tackle some raw subject matter and is certainly going to feel triggering for people close to this experience. Do I think that it is disrespectful to the victims of that massacre? No I don't. I think that it illustrates just how vital it is for people with intellectual disabilities to be supported and guided through difficult times so that this type of thing doesn't happen again. I think that Nitram highlights a failing on society for not reporting or flagging disturbing behaviours in the early stages before they amplify and also why Australia needed to tighten their gun laws, which thankfully they did.
Caleb Landry Jones does an incredible job of portraying the disturbed nature of Nitram and Essie Davis, who always shines on screen is terrific as the kooky Tattersall's heiress Helen. Judy Davis and Anthony LaPaglia deliver as Nitram's exhausted parents and the acting cannot be faulted at any point.
Overall, there's no denying that this is not an easy or calming film, but it is definitely food for thought.
FINAL SAY: Senseless deaths
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 112 mins
An Australian biographical, psychological drama directed by Justin Kurzel from a screenplay by Shaun Grant that really drives home the need for better support around people with intellectual disabilities and anti-social behaviours. I found this movie very affecting for several reasons, and although the material is of a sensitive nature, I do believe that this is a story that needs to be told and deserves to be heard.
Nitram (Martin spelled backwards) is a young man who is struggling with his disability and his sense of belonging in society. He is disgruntled at home with his parents when he meets eccentric Helen, a retired actress and wealthy heiress and the two soon form a close bond. However, after a fatal car accident Nitram again finds himself alone, and although wealthy after inheriting all of Helen's fortune, he quickly spirals out of control and becomes obsessed with dangerous and harmful obsessions.
This film essentially documents the events that lead up to the horrific 1996 Port Arthur massacre in Tasmania. Nitram attempts to help us understand why and how the atrocity occurred. It isn't a pleasant watch, it does tackle some raw subject matter and is certainly going to feel triggering for people close to this experience. Do I think that it is disrespectful to the victims of that massacre? No I don't. I think that it illustrates just how vital it is for people with intellectual disabilities to be supported and guided through difficult times so that this type of thing doesn't happen again. I think that Nitram highlights a failing on society for not reporting or flagging disturbing behaviours in the early stages before they amplify and also why Australia needed to tighten their gun laws, which thankfully they did.
Caleb Landry Jones does an incredible job of portraying the disturbed nature of Nitram and Essie Davis, who always shines on screen is terrific as the kooky Tattersall's heiress Helen. Judy Davis and Anthony LaPaglia deliver as Nitram's exhausted parents and the acting cannot be faulted at any point.
Overall, there's no denying that this is not an easy or calming film, but it is definitely food for thought.
FINAL SAY: Senseless deaths
4 Chilli Peppers
TITANE
Release Date: 2021
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 108 mins
A French language film written and directed by Julia Ducournau that got tongues wagging, not just because it won the 2021 Palme d'Or award at the Cannes Film Festival, but also for its intense, jaw dropping concepts and striking imagery.
Alexia, a dancer with a metal plate in her head due to a childhood accident, has an unusual affinity with cars. She also has an affinity to killing and does so ruthlessly. However, after a sexual encounter with a vehicle (yep, you read that right, a car) she finds herself pregnant and on the run from the law. Alexia decides to take on the persona of a child that went missing a decade ago in an attempt to go into hiding. The lost boy's father Vincent, a lonely fire captain, is also desperate for a new beginning and he takes Alexia in and allows her to charade as his son.
This is a seriously provocative and original film. However, it is also not an easy watch by any stretch. There is a lot of graphic body horror and some deeply disturbing depictions that some people may find too much. However, for all of its ugliness, Titane is really about desperate, lost people that genuinely crave love and meaningful relationships, which makes it equal parts distressing and emotional.
Agathe Rousselle is giving everything here as Alexia and spends much of the movie involved in awkward, weird and revolting interludes. Vincent Lindon brings the term 'damaged' to new light with his misogynistic firefighter crew antics and desperate need to hold back the ravages of time on his body.
There's a lot to like and also a lot not to like in Titane. I suggest that you see it for yourself and be the judge.
FINAL SAY: It's very solid. It's titanium.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2021
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 108 mins
A French language film written and directed by Julia Ducournau that got tongues wagging, not just because it won the 2021 Palme d'Or award at the Cannes Film Festival, but also for its intense, jaw dropping concepts and striking imagery.
Alexia, a dancer with a metal plate in her head due to a childhood accident, has an unusual affinity with cars. She also has an affinity to killing and does so ruthlessly. However, after a sexual encounter with a vehicle (yep, you read that right, a car) she finds herself pregnant and on the run from the law. Alexia decides to take on the persona of a child that went missing a decade ago in an attempt to go into hiding. The lost boy's father Vincent, a lonely fire captain, is also desperate for a new beginning and he takes Alexia in and allows her to charade as his son.
This is a seriously provocative and original film. However, it is also not an easy watch by any stretch. There is a lot of graphic body horror and some deeply disturbing depictions that some people may find too much. However, for all of its ugliness, Titane is really about desperate, lost people that genuinely crave love and meaningful relationships, which makes it equal parts distressing and emotional.
Agathe Rousselle is giving everything here as Alexia and spends much of the movie involved in awkward, weird and revolting interludes. Vincent Lindon brings the term 'damaged' to new light with his misogynistic firefighter crew antics and desperate need to hold back the ravages of time on his body.
There's a lot to like and also a lot not to like in Titane. I suggest that you see it for yourself and be the judge.
FINAL SAY: It's very solid. It's titanium.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
AMERICAN MURDER: THE FAMILY NEXT DOOR
Release Date: 2020
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 82 mins
I don't often get into crime documentaries, however this one in particular not only held my attention but stayed with me long after the credits had rolled. From extensive evidence and archival footage including social media posts, law enforcement recordings, text messages and home video footage that depict the events as they occurred, we gain a grisly and disturbingly accurate recount of what actually took place in the Watts family home in Colorado in 2018.
A close friend of Shannon Watts becomes distressed when she doesn't return her messages and unwittingly starts the wheels in motion for an investigation that sends headlines around the globe.
The less you know about this story before you see it, the better. I was genuinely horrified and bewildered about this crime and it still gives me the shivers when I think about it now. Seeing is believing!
FINAL SAY: Sometimes people are just not who they appear to be.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2020
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 82 mins
I don't often get into crime documentaries, however this one in particular not only held my attention but stayed with me long after the credits had rolled. From extensive evidence and archival footage including social media posts, law enforcement recordings, text messages and home video footage that depict the events as they occurred, we gain a grisly and disturbingly accurate recount of what actually took place in the Watts family home in Colorado in 2018.
A close friend of Shannon Watts becomes distressed when she doesn't return her messages and unwittingly starts the wheels in motion for an investigation that sends headlines around the globe.
The less you know about this story before you see it, the better. I was genuinely horrified and bewildered about this crime and it still gives me the shivers when I think about it now. Seeing is believing!
FINAL SAY: Sometimes people are just not who they appear to be.
3 Chilli Peppers
SWALLOW
Release Date: 2020
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 94 mins
An unforgettably affecting independent psychological film that was written and directed by Carlo Mirabella-Davis. Swallow seeks to explore a very real affliction called pica, a psychological disorder that compels sufferers to consume indigestible objects.
Beautiful and passive Hunter has just married a wealthy CEO and her new life affords her the luxury of not having to work, lots of free time and extra money at her disposal. However, after swallowing a marble one day, Hunter feels exhilarated and begins to consume more and more inedible objects, eventually putting her life and that of her unborn child in danger.
Be warned, this movie is really hard to watch at times. Between the main characters obsession with swallowing harmful objects and the appalling treatment and lack of emotional support that she receives from the people around her, this film just goes from bad to worse.
Haley Bennett's performance of Hunter is Oscar nomination worthy and she projects the immaculately groomed 'Stepford wife' persona hiding a deep secret so well that it is downright eerie. Swallow certainly provides us with a glimpse into the strange and disturbing world of pica sufferers and will be a film that I won't ever forget seeing.
FINAL SAY: Are you happy, or are you pretending to be happy?
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2020
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 94 mins
An unforgettably affecting independent psychological film that was written and directed by Carlo Mirabella-Davis. Swallow seeks to explore a very real affliction called pica, a psychological disorder that compels sufferers to consume indigestible objects.
Beautiful and passive Hunter has just married a wealthy CEO and her new life affords her the luxury of not having to work, lots of free time and extra money at her disposal. However, after swallowing a marble one day, Hunter feels exhilarated and begins to consume more and more inedible objects, eventually putting her life and that of her unborn child in danger.
Be warned, this movie is really hard to watch at times. Between the main characters obsession with swallowing harmful objects and the appalling treatment and lack of emotional support that she receives from the people around her, this film just goes from bad to worse.
Haley Bennett's performance of Hunter is Oscar nomination worthy and she projects the immaculately groomed 'Stepford wife' persona hiding a deep secret so well that it is downright eerie. Swallow certainly provides us with a glimpse into the strange and disturbing world of pica sufferers and will be a film that I won't ever forget seeing.
FINAL SAY: Are you happy, or are you pretending to be happy?
3 Chilli Peppers
RENT-A-PAL
Release Date: 2020
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 89 mins
An Indy thriller, written and directed by Jon Stevenson, that delves into the world of isolation, family responsibility and mental illness is original and disturbing ways.
David is a middled aged bachelor who is looking for love through a video dating service. However, finding love is hard when you are also a full time career for an irritable mother that is suffering from dementia. In his pursuits David stumbles upon a video entitled Rent-A- Pal that features a host named Andy who simulates conversation and interaction through the video, providing a friend and a confident for David.
The retro format, the acting and the unforeseeable outcomes are all terrific here; in short, this is a well written and thought provoking slow burner that has enough awkward interactions and brutal behaviours to earn its place on my gritty list.
FINAL SAY: I've been waiting for this moment for what feels like forever.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2020
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 89 mins
An Indy thriller, written and directed by Jon Stevenson, that delves into the world of isolation, family responsibility and mental illness is original and disturbing ways.
David is a middled aged bachelor who is looking for love through a video dating service. However, finding love is hard when you are also a full time career for an irritable mother that is suffering from dementia. In his pursuits David stumbles upon a video entitled Rent-A- Pal that features a host named Andy who simulates conversation and interaction through the video, providing a friend and a confident for David.
The retro format, the acting and the unforeseeable outcomes are all terrific here; in short, this is a well written and thought provoking slow burner that has enough awkward interactions and brutal behaviours to earn its place on my gritty list.
FINAL SAY: I've been waiting for this moment for what feels like forever.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
HAIL SATAN?
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 95 mins
An American documentary film about The Satanic Temple, outlining its origins and grassroots political activism. Directed by Penny Lane, this documentary highlights the efforts of the Satanic movement in their attempts to preserve the separation of church and state against the privilege of the Christian right.
Through a series of public demonstrations designed to advocate for religious freedom, The Satanic Temple push their mostly unwelcomed agenda and force many Americans to address the clearly corrupt authority of Christianity within their country. Lead my their enigmatic co-founder and spokesperson Lucien Greaves, this group of misunderstood outsiders band together and use their wit, charm and mischievous nature's to speak the truth, managing to ruffle more than a few feathers along the way.
This is a great documentary that will challenge your preconceived ideas about both the Satanic movement and the Christian faith movement as well. And although you may not necessarily agree with all of the unorthodox demonstration methods of The Satanic Temple, you will not be able to deny their intelligent, witty and mostly entertaining advocacies for justice and equality.
FINAL SAY: In the fight for justice, the devil's work is never done.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 95 mins
An American documentary film about The Satanic Temple, outlining its origins and grassroots political activism. Directed by Penny Lane, this documentary highlights the efforts of the Satanic movement in their attempts to preserve the separation of church and state against the privilege of the Christian right.
Through a series of public demonstrations designed to advocate for religious freedom, The Satanic Temple push their mostly unwelcomed agenda and force many Americans to address the clearly corrupt authority of Christianity within their country. Lead my their enigmatic co-founder and spokesperson Lucien Greaves, this group of misunderstood outsiders band together and use their wit, charm and mischievous nature's to speak the truth, managing to ruffle more than a few feathers along the way.
This is a great documentary that will challenge your preconceived ideas about both the Satanic movement and the Christian faith movement as well. And although you may not necessarily agree with all of the unorthodox demonstration methods of The Satanic Temple, you will not be able to deny their intelligent, witty and mostly entertaining advocacies for justice and equality.
FINAL SAY: In the fight for justice, the devil's work is never done.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
FOR SAMA
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 100 mins
A deeply affecting Arabic documentary film, produced and narrated by Waad Al-Kateab who also co-directed with Edward Watts. For Sama made history when it was nominated in four categories at the BAFTA awards, making the most nominated documentary ever; and it was also nominated for an Academy Award as well. And when you watch this movie, it is easy to see why it garnered such attention. This is not a documentary for the faint hearted, it's graphic, raw and real and depicts the attacks on Aleppo from the frontlines within.
In 2011, Waad Al-Kateab was enjoying a fresh start at the University of Aleppo, Syria when the civil war began. Waad swiftly finds herself behind a camera, documenting the experiences around her, proving that even in the most war torn parts of the world there is love to be found. Through her partner Hamza, a doctor in a world without hope and her young child Sama, for whom she narrates the story of their experiences, Waad finds the strength to endure amidst the bombs and the bloodshed.
Terrifying and hopeful all at once, For Sama is an unmissable slice of story-telling from a young female activist on the inside. This is a heartfelt slice of journalism that should not be missed, but I feel that you should be fairly warned that some of the footage of the injured, dead and dying civilians within the hospitals that Waad films could be triggering for some people and aren't easy to witness for anyone. Go in strong because For Sama is a rough, unforgettable and harrowing ride.
FINAL SAY: But what a life I've brought you into. You didn't choose this. Will you ever forgive me?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 100 mins
A deeply affecting Arabic documentary film, produced and narrated by Waad Al-Kateab who also co-directed with Edward Watts. For Sama made history when it was nominated in four categories at the BAFTA awards, making the most nominated documentary ever; and it was also nominated for an Academy Award as well. And when you watch this movie, it is easy to see why it garnered such attention. This is not a documentary for the faint hearted, it's graphic, raw and real and depicts the attacks on Aleppo from the frontlines within.
In 2011, Waad Al-Kateab was enjoying a fresh start at the University of Aleppo, Syria when the civil war began. Waad swiftly finds herself behind a camera, documenting the experiences around her, proving that even in the most war torn parts of the world there is love to be found. Through her partner Hamza, a doctor in a world without hope and her young child Sama, for whom she narrates the story of their experiences, Waad finds the strength to endure amidst the bombs and the bloodshed.
Terrifying and hopeful all at once, For Sama is an unmissable slice of story-telling from a young female activist on the inside. This is a heartfelt slice of journalism that should not be missed, but I feel that you should be fairly warned that some of the footage of the injured, dead and dying civilians within the hospitals that Waad films could be triggering for some people and aren't easy to witness for anyone. Go in strong because For Sama is a rough, unforgettable and harrowing ride.
FINAL SAY: But what a life I've brought you into. You didn't choose this. Will you ever forgive me?
4 Chilli Peppers
MYSTIFY: MICHAEL HUTCHENCE
Release Date: 2019
Rating: M
Running Time: 108 mins
If you were ever a fan of INXS and was shocked by the news of Michael Hutchence's death in 1997, then you really need to see this documentary. Written and directed by Richard Lowenstein, the film relies mainly on archive footage, outtakes and private home video and audio commentary to illustrate the life of musician, actor and lead singer of INXS, Michael Hutchence.
This is both engrossing and interesting storytelling that outlines all of the major influences, relationships and achievements that Hutchence experienced during his brief and often troubled life. Clearly he was always a very charismatic and engaging individual, even in his early years, however beneath that Dionysian sexiness and confident exterior he was actually a very complex, fractured and sensitive individual.
Mystify: Michael Hutchence is an emotional and beautiful ode to a man that left his mark on the music industry and the world at large and is an unmissable watch for INXS fans.
FINAL SAY: Don't ask me, what you know is true.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2019
Rating: M
Running Time: 108 mins
If you were ever a fan of INXS and was shocked by the news of Michael Hutchence's death in 1997, then you really need to see this documentary. Written and directed by Richard Lowenstein, the film relies mainly on archive footage, outtakes and private home video and audio commentary to illustrate the life of musician, actor and lead singer of INXS, Michael Hutchence.
This is both engrossing and interesting storytelling that outlines all of the major influences, relationships and achievements that Hutchence experienced during his brief and often troubled life. Clearly he was always a very charismatic and engaging individual, even in his early years, however beneath that Dionysian sexiness and confident exterior he was actually a very complex, fractured and sensitive individual.
Mystify: Michael Hutchence is an emotional and beautiful ode to a man that left his mark on the music industry and the world at large and is an unmissable watch for INXS fans.
FINAL SAY: Don't ask me, what you know is true.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE NIGHTINGALE
Release Date: 2018
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 136 mins
A gritty period drama, written, directed and co-produced by Jennifer Kent, that delivers with such intensity that many people actually walked out of the theatre during its initial screenings due to the graphic and disturbing nature of the movie.
Set in 1825 Tasmania, the film brutally depicts the horrific treatment of both convicts and indigenous Australians during the early British colonisation of Australia. Jennifer Kent clearly did a lot of research into the history of Australian convicts and also the Aboriginal people of Tasmania before making this film and it shows; because this film feels so deftly honest and authentic in its storytelling.
The language spoken by the Aboriginals in this film is Palawa Kani, which is nearly extinct and The Nightingale marks the first time that it has ever been spoken in a mainstream movie. Filmed on location in the Tasmanian bush, the harsh and unforgiving landscapes further add to the sense of impending dread and danger - which seems to be the main theme of this deeply affecting story.
Clare Carroll, a young Irish convict, mother and wife, works as a servant for the British army. With the voice of a nightingale she draws attention from the Lieutenant who begins to viciously mistreat her. Her husband desperately tries to gain her freedom but only exacerbates the issue and what follows is an evening of complete horror. Clare, determined to make her wrongdoers accountable for their savagery, hires an Aboriginal tracker named Billy and sets off to exact her revenge.
Heartbreaking, shocking, harrowing and desperately confronting, The Nightingale is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled. This is a tough but powerful watch that is strengthen by extremely convincing performances from Aisling Franciosi as The Nightingale/ Clare, Baykali Ganambarr as the gorgeous tracker Billy and Sam Claflin as the unflinchingly cruel Lieutenant Hawkins.
If you have the strength to watch the truly ugly side of British colonisation, then this is an unmissable watch.
FINAL SAY: I'm still here you white bastards! I'm not going anywhere! I'm home!
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 136 mins
A gritty period drama, written, directed and co-produced by Jennifer Kent, that delivers with such intensity that many people actually walked out of the theatre during its initial screenings due to the graphic and disturbing nature of the movie.
Set in 1825 Tasmania, the film brutally depicts the horrific treatment of both convicts and indigenous Australians during the early British colonisation of Australia. Jennifer Kent clearly did a lot of research into the history of Australian convicts and also the Aboriginal people of Tasmania before making this film and it shows; because this film feels so deftly honest and authentic in its storytelling.
The language spoken by the Aboriginals in this film is Palawa Kani, which is nearly extinct and The Nightingale marks the first time that it has ever been spoken in a mainstream movie. Filmed on location in the Tasmanian bush, the harsh and unforgiving landscapes further add to the sense of impending dread and danger - which seems to be the main theme of this deeply affecting story.
Clare Carroll, a young Irish convict, mother and wife, works as a servant for the British army. With the voice of a nightingale she draws attention from the Lieutenant who begins to viciously mistreat her. Her husband desperately tries to gain her freedom but only exacerbates the issue and what follows is an evening of complete horror. Clare, determined to make her wrongdoers accountable for their savagery, hires an Aboriginal tracker named Billy and sets off to exact her revenge.
Heartbreaking, shocking, harrowing and desperately confronting, The Nightingale is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled. This is a tough but powerful watch that is strengthen by extremely convincing performances from Aisling Franciosi as The Nightingale/ Clare, Baykali Ganambarr as the gorgeous tracker Billy and Sam Claflin as the unflinchingly cruel Lieutenant Hawkins.
If you have the strength to watch the truly ugly side of British colonisation, then this is an unmissable watch.
FINAL SAY: I'm still here you white bastards! I'm not going anywhere! I'm home!
4 Chilli Peppers
THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 132 mins
Produced and directed by Peter Jackson, this documentary film was created using original footage of World War 1 that was accessed through the Imperial War Museum archives. Previously unseen footage that was over 100 year old when this film was released has been restored and colourized using modern production techniques and the overall effect is staggeringly good.
Audio containing interviews with the actual British servicemen has been overlaid, along with voice acting and sound effects to bring the actual events to a frightening realization. The impact of this documentary is deeply harrowing and affecting, no war movie has ever felt this immersive or atmospheric for me, and I have a newfound respect for the lads that endured the unbelievable extremities of the trenches and yet still manage to demonstrate the most admirable camaraderie and bravery through it all.
The crew involved in working on this film reviewed 600 hours of interviews from 200 veterans and 100 hours of original film footage to create this movie, and it is an absolutely unmissable slice of history.
FINAL SAY: They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 132 mins
Produced and directed by Peter Jackson, this documentary film was created using original footage of World War 1 that was accessed through the Imperial War Museum archives. Previously unseen footage that was over 100 year old when this film was released has been restored and colourized using modern production techniques and the overall effect is staggeringly good.
Audio containing interviews with the actual British servicemen has been overlaid, along with voice acting and sound effects to bring the actual events to a frightening realization. The impact of this documentary is deeply harrowing and affecting, no war movie has ever felt this immersive or atmospheric for me, and I have a newfound respect for the lads that endured the unbelievable extremities of the trenches and yet still manage to demonstrate the most admirable camaraderie and bravery through it all.
The crew involved in working on this film reviewed 600 hours of interviews from 200 veterans and 100 hours of original film footage to create this movie, and it is an absolutely unmissable slice of history.
FINAL SAY: They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
FREE SOLO
Release Date: 2018
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
Let me start by saying that you do not need to be interested in rock climbing to enjoy this film. Not only did I not even know what the term 'free solo' meant prior to watching this film, I was also utterly engrossed and practically nauseated by most of the death defying scenes of free solo climbing in this documentary.
Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, this in depth documentary profiles the endeavours of Alex Honnold, a free solo (rope and harness free) climber, in his quest to climb El Capitan in June 2017. With just the strength of his fingers and toes for gripping and his incredible levels of endurance and core fitness, Honnold performs a free solo climb up what appears to be a sheer mountain surface that will leave you utterly awed and totally rattled.
I literally had my hands over my eyes for parts of this film, it is just terrifying. I don't know if Alex Honnold is part Spiderman or part insane, maybe he is both; but this documentary, which won Best Documentary Feature at the 91st Academy Awards, is definitely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: I work through the fear until it's just not scary anymore.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
Let me start by saying that you do not need to be interested in rock climbing to enjoy this film. Not only did I not even know what the term 'free solo' meant prior to watching this film, I was also utterly engrossed and practically nauseated by most of the death defying scenes of free solo climbing in this documentary.
Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, this in depth documentary profiles the endeavours of Alex Honnold, a free solo (rope and harness free) climber, in his quest to climb El Capitan in June 2017. With just the strength of his fingers and toes for gripping and his incredible levels of endurance and core fitness, Honnold performs a free solo climb up what appears to be a sheer mountain surface that will leave you utterly awed and totally rattled.
I literally had my hands over my eyes for parts of this film, it is just terrifying. I don't know if Alex Honnold is part Spiderman or part insane, maybe he is both; but this documentary, which won Best Documentary Feature at the 91st Academy Awards, is definitely worth a look.
FINAL SAY: I work through the fear until it's just not scary anymore.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
JOHN LEGUIZAMO'S LATIN HISTORY FOR MORONS
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 90 mins
Colombian-American actor John Leguizamo brings his one man Broadway show to Netflix in this unmissable documentary about Latino history. Latin History for Morons earned a 2018 Tony Award nomination for Best Play on Broadway and is easily the most interesting chalk and talk history lesson that you will ever sit through.
When John's son falls victim to a white bully at a Manhattan private school for being Latino, John delves into his own history to try and identify the reasons for America's whitewashed historical recount and the hidden heros that have been sadly overlooked.
The excruciatingly violent past of the indigenous people of America and South America is delivered here in an informative and effervescent way by Leguizamo who manages to illustrate all of the ugliness with a good speckle of humour and an engaging flair. However underneath it all, this is a harrowing tale about all of the native people that were slain and driven from their homes over the past 3000 years and the impact that is still being felt today as a consequence of that.
Everyone needs to see this, it is a powerful and thought provoking watch that offers a great overview into Hispanic culture for people (or morons like me) that don't know a lot about the topic.
FINAL SAY: Violence is the lowest form of communication.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 90 mins
Colombian-American actor John Leguizamo brings his one man Broadway show to Netflix in this unmissable documentary about Latino history. Latin History for Morons earned a 2018 Tony Award nomination for Best Play on Broadway and is easily the most interesting chalk and talk history lesson that you will ever sit through.
When John's son falls victim to a white bully at a Manhattan private school for being Latino, John delves into his own history to try and identify the reasons for America's whitewashed historical recount and the hidden heros that have been sadly overlooked.
The excruciatingly violent past of the indigenous people of America and South America is delivered here in an informative and effervescent way by Leguizamo who manages to illustrate all of the ugliness with a good speckle of humour and an engaging flair. However underneath it all, this is a harrowing tale about all of the native people that were slain and driven from their homes over the past 3000 years and the impact that is still being felt today as a consequence of that.
Everyone needs to see this, it is a powerful and thought provoking watch that offers a great overview into Hispanic culture for people (or morons like me) that don't know a lot about the topic.
FINAL SAY: Violence is the lowest form of communication.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE TALE
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 114 mins
An American drama written and directed by Jennifer Fox and based on her memoirs about her own childhood sexual abuse and how it affected her relationships later in life. After premiering at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival, The Tale went straight to television and aired on HBO in May, 2018.
Jennifer, now a successful adult, receives an alarming call from her mother who has just discovered an essay that Jennifer wrote when she was 13. The essay outlines an illicit and inappropriate relationship that she had with two adults from her childhood. Keen to uncover the truth herself, Jennifer delves back into her past and the murky events surrounding the summer that she spent at an intensive horse riding camp with her enigmatic teacher Mrs G and their professional coach Bill.
The Tale tackles a challenging, ugly and sensitive subject with a lot of grace and realism, and for that reason it is tremendously powerful and utterly disturbing at the same time. Laura Dern is incredible as adult Jennifer and Isabelle Nelisse gives a striking and memorable performance as 13 year old Jennifer. They are well supported by John Heard, Ellen Burstyn, Francis Conroy and Elizabeth Debicki who all deliver perfectly on this sickening tale of lost innocence and child exploitation.
FINAL SAY: When I was a child, I was obsessed with changing myself.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 114 mins
An American drama written and directed by Jennifer Fox and based on her memoirs about her own childhood sexual abuse and how it affected her relationships later in life. After premiering at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival, The Tale went straight to television and aired on HBO in May, 2018.
Jennifer, now a successful adult, receives an alarming call from her mother who has just discovered an essay that Jennifer wrote when she was 13. The essay outlines an illicit and inappropriate relationship that she had with two adults from her childhood. Keen to uncover the truth herself, Jennifer delves back into her past and the murky events surrounding the summer that she spent at an intensive horse riding camp with her enigmatic teacher Mrs G and their professional coach Bill.
The Tale tackles a challenging, ugly and sensitive subject with a lot of grace and realism, and for that reason it is tremendously powerful and utterly disturbing at the same time. Laura Dern is incredible as adult Jennifer and Isabelle Nelisse gives a striking and memorable performance as 13 year old Jennifer. They are well supported by John Heard, Ellen Burstyn, Francis Conroy and Elizabeth Debicki who all deliver perfectly on this sickening tale of lost innocence and child exploitation.
FINAL SAY: When I was a child, I was obsessed with changing myself.
4 Chilli Peppers
THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS
Release Date: 2018
Rating: PG
Running Time: 97 mins
A 'truth is stranger than fiction' documentary that examines a set of American identical triplets who were separated at birth and then found each other 19 years later. Directed by Tim Wardie and starring many of the actual people involved in this odd and intriguing story.
David, Eddy and Bobby were born to a teenage single mother in 1961, and were then adopted out to three different families, none of which knew of each others existence. 19 years later and completely by chance, the boys found each other, and together discover the secrets and strange circumstances that created the lives that they had lived before they met each other.
This documentary gets more and more interesting as it unravels, and trust me when I say that there is more than meets the eye to this story. Touching, surreal and genuinely surprising, this is a fascinating tale that will leave you wanting to know more, in fact I wouldn't be surprised if there was a follow up to this documentary sometime in the future.
FINAL SAY: I'm telling it and it's true, every word of it.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2018
Rating: PG
Running Time: 97 mins
A 'truth is stranger than fiction' documentary that examines a set of American identical triplets who were separated at birth and then found each other 19 years later. Directed by Tim Wardie and starring many of the actual people involved in this odd and intriguing story.
David, Eddy and Bobby were born to a teenage single mother in 1961, and were then adopted out to three different families, none of which knew of each others existence. 19 years later and completely by chance, the boys found each other, and together discover the secrets and strange circumstances that created the lives that they had lived before they met each other.
This documentary gets more and more interesting as it unravels, and trust me when I say that there is more than meets the eye to this story. Touching, surreal and genuinely surprising, this is a fascinating tale that will leave you wanting to know more, in fact I wouldn't be surprised if there was a follow up to this documentary sometime in the future.
FINAL SAY: I'm telling it and it's true, every word of it.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
PIN CUSHION
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 82 mins
When odd Iona and her hunchback mother Lyn relocate to a new town, they are both optimistic for a fresh start and hoping to integrate into their new community and make new friends. Unfortunately, their naivety about just how vicious, exclusive and unpleasant bored suburban housewives and attention seeking teenagers can be, causes them to crumble.
Written and directed by Deborah Haywood, Pin Cushion completely assaults your senses with it's onslaught of awkward coming of age interludes, cruel and manipulative behaviours and it's agonisingly emotional struggle for acceptance. Joanna Scanlan is amazing as the well meaning social pariah Lyn, and Lily Newmark is perfectly awkward as the 'desperate to be liked' teenager Iona.
This is truly heart-breaking stuff and at times it is quite hard to watch. Pin Cushion openly explores the many facets of a mother-daughter relationship within a single parent dynamic and explores issues of loneliness, isolation, bullying and co-dependence in ways that cannot be ignored.
FINAL SAY: It's not just children that can bullied in relentlessly cruel ways.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 82 mins
When odd Iona and her hunchback mother Lyn relocate to a new town, they are both optimistic for a fresh start and hoping to integrate into their new community and make new friends. Unfortunately, their naivety about just how vicious, exclusive and unpleasant bored suburban housewives and attention seeking teenagers can be, causes them to crumble.
Written and directed by Deborah Haywood, Pin Cushion completely assaults your senses with it's onslaught of awkward coming of age interludes, cruel and manipulative behaviours and it's agonisingly emotional struggle for acceptance. Joanna Scanlan is amazing as the well meaning social pariah Lyn, and Lily Newmark is perfectly awkward as the 'desperate to be liked' teenager Iona.
This is truly heart-breaking stuff and at times it is quite hard to watch. Pin Cushion openly explores the many facets of a mother-daughter relationship within a single parent dynamic and explores issues of loneliness, isolation, bullying and co-dependence in ways that cannot be ignored.
FINAL SAY: It's not just children that can bullied in relentlessly cruel ways.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
MOTHER!
Release Date: 2017
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 121 mins
We all know that director Darren Aronofsky likes to push people to the brink of their comfort zone, so I wasn't expecting an easy ride from this movie in any way, shape or form. And it was just as well that I wasn't, because Mother! is clearly going to be the most controversial and talked about film of the year. With its intense biblical allegories, disturbing depictions of violence and mind bending storyline, this is not a movie for the faint hearted; but for people that like to be challenged by the movies that they watch, this is nothing short of a masterpiece.
He (Javier Bardem) and Mother (Jennifer Lawrence) share a secluded country house. He is an author with writer's block and Mother busies herself with home renovations. One day Man turns up, closely followed by his wife Woman and things start to get out of hand very quickly. As the serenity of their home is compromised, He and Mother conceive a child and He writes a book that changes the world forever.
The last hour of this movie is so visceral and intense that I found myself having both an emotional and a physical response to its content. I doubt that anyone that sees this film will not feel affected by its content, which although at times is intensely vicious, it is also a true work of vision. Mother! will most definitely divide audiences, that much was evident from the immediate responses that I heard in the cinema on the day that I saw it. The film engrossed some, enraging others and completely flew over the heads of some as well, but everyone certainly had an intense response to it one way or another.
I loved it, the acting was absolutely faultless; Jennifer Lawrence acted her heart out and deserves an Oscar nomination for her stirring and deeply committed effort to the role of Mother. The storyline is intriguing, original and intensely gripping, and the cinematography is just terrific. This is another feather in Aronofsky's writer/director hat as far as I am concerned, and I know that I will be talking about this film for many years to come.
FINAL SAY: I am I. And you? You are home.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 121 mins
We all know that director Darren Aronofsky likes to push people to the brink of their comfort zone, so I wasn't expecting an easy ride from this movie in any way, shape or form. And it was just as well that I wasn't, because Mother! is clearly going to be the most controversial and talked about film of the year. With its intense biblical allegories, disturbing depictions of violence and mind bending storyline, this is not a movie for the faint hearted; but for people that like to be challenged by the movies that they watch, this is nothing short of a masterpiece.
He (Javier Bardem) and Mother (Jennifer Lawrence) share a secluded country house. He is an author with writer's block and Mother busies herself with home renovations. One day Man turns up, closely followed by his wife Woman and things start to get out of hand very quickly. As the serenity of their home is compromised, He and Mother conceive a child and He writes a book that changes the world forever.
The last hour of this movie is so visceral and intense that I found myself having both an emotional and a physical response to its content. I doubt that anyone that sees this film will not feel affected by its content, which although at times is intensely vicious, it is also a true work of vision. Mother! will most definitely divide audiences, that much was evident from the immediate responses that I heard in the cinema on the day that I saw it. The film engrossed some, enraging others and completely flew over the heads of some as well, but everyone certainly had an intense response to it one way or another.
I loved it, the acting was absolutely faultless; Jennifer Lawrence acted her heart out and deserves an Oscar nomination for her stirring and deeply committed effort to the role of Mother. The storyline is intriguing, original and intensely gripping, and the cinematography is just terrific. This is another feather in Aronofsky's writer/director hat as far as I am concerned, and I know that I will be talking about this film for many years to come.
FINAL SAY: I am I. And you? You are home.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
FIRST THEY KILLED MY FATHER
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 136 mins
An historical and biographical movie, directed by Angelina Jolie and based on the memoirs of Loung Ung, a survivor of the Khmer Rouge communist regime that invaded Cambodia in 1975. This touching and harrowing tale screened at the Telluride Film Festival and the Toronto Film Festival and aired worldwide on Netflix in 2017.
When the hostile Khmer Rouge forces invade Cambodia in 1975, Loung Ung (Sareum Srey Moch) and her family are forced into hard labour at a refugee camp. Whilst there, they are stripped of their individuality, dignity and human rights and Loung's father is executed by the soldiers. After being subjected to intense political propaganda, violence and starvation, Loung's mother reluctantly sends her children away from the camp in the hope that they will find salvation elsewhere.
This is an affecting retell of a grizzly historical atrocity. Sareum Srey Moch is just incredible as Loung Ung, and the entire cast is delivering believable and committed performances. The sensitive subject material has been presented with much empathy and skill by Jolie, showcasing her ability as a director with strong creative abilities and an eye for quality cinematography.
FINAL SAY: It's better to make a mistake and kill an innocent person than to leave an enemy alive.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 136 mins
An historical and biographical movie, directed by Angelina Jolie and based on the memoirs of Loung Ung, a survivor of the Khmer Rouge communist regime that invaded Cambodia in 1975. This touching and harrowing tale screened at the Telluride Film Festival and the Toronto Film Festival and aired worldwide on Netflix in 2017.
When the hostile Khmer Rouge forces invade Cambodia in 1975, Loung Ung (Sareum Srey Moch) and her family are forced into hard labour at a refugee camp. Whilst there, they are stripped of their individuality, dignity and human rights and Loung's father is executed by the soldiers. After being subjected to intense political propaganda, violence and starvation, Loung's mother reluctantly sends her children away from the camp in the hope that they will find salvation elsewhere.
This is an affecting retell of a grizzly historical atrocity. Sareum Srey Moch is just incredible as Loung Ung, and the entire cast is delivering believable and committed performances. The sensitive subject material has been presented with much empathy and skill by Jolie, showcasing her ability as a director with strong creative abilities and an eye for quality cinematography.
FINAL SAY: It's better to make a mistake and kill an innocent person than to leave an enemy alive.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
CHASING CORAL
Release Date: 2017
Rating: PG
Running Time: 93 mins
A documentary film directed by Jeff Orlowski, produced by Exposure Labs and globally released on Netflix in 2017, Chasing Coral delivers a sobering and heartfelt message to the world about the very real impact that global warming is having on coral reefs around the world.
Divers, photographers and scientists set out an ocean adventure to discover why the world's most magnificent reefs are dying and whether we can reverse the coral bleaching problem that is killing reef life so rapidly around the globe.
This is a truly heart breaking watch as experts and scientists valiantly attempt to deliver a grim truth to a world that not only doesn't want to hear it, but isn't really willing to do anything about it either. I actually got very teary when I saw the revealing before and after shots of the damage that has occurred already to our natural global treasures, it is just devastating to behold. However, the message is also vitally important and awareness is the only way that any of this is ever going to change and for that reason I feel like everyone has a duty to see this documentary and to really start to think about their global footprint in more ethical and actioning ways.
FINAL SAY: They say it's one of the rarest events in nature happening and everyone's just oblivious to it.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: PG
Running Time: 93 mins
A documentary film directed by Jeff Orlowski, produced by Exposure Labs and globally released on Netflix in 2017, Chasing Coral delivers a sobering and heartfelt message to the world about the very real impact that global warming is having on coral reefs around the world.
Divers, photographers and scientists set out an ocean adventure to discover why the world's most magnificent reefs are dying and whether we can reverse the coral bleaching problem that is killing reef life so rapidly around the globe.
This is a truly heart breaking watch as experts and scientists valiantly attempt to deliver a grim truth to a world that not only doesn't want to hear it, but isn't really willing to do anything about it either. I actually got very teary when I saw the revealing before and after shots of the damage that has occurred already to our natural global treasures, it is just devastating to behold. However, the message is also vitally important and awareness is the only way that any of this is ever going to change and for that reason I feel like everyone has a duty to see this documentary and to really start to think about their global footprint in more ethical and actioning ways.
FINAL SAY: They say it's one of the rarest events in nature happening and everyone's just oblivious to it.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 90 mins
A gritty psychological thriller written and directed by Lynne Ramsay and based on the novella of the same name by Jonathan Ames. You Were Never Really Here delivers a tense 90 minute ride of violence and trauma that is not easy to shake off. Joaquin Phoenix won the 2017 Cannes Film Festival Best Actor award and director Lynne Ramsay also deservingly won Best Screenplay.
A traumatized man named Joe is a gun for hire, specialising in rescuing and recovering trafficked girls. He also cares for his elderly mother and suffers from horrific post traumatic flashbacks that stem from his difficult childhood and brutal military past.
The hits just keep on coming in this seriously stark movie and things just go from dark to grim as we traverse the seedy world that spawns Joe's assignments. It's not an easy ride, but it is all told in the most uncompromising and unique way.
Phoenix is again demonstrating just how much of a chameleon and master actor he is through his utterly disturbing and unforgettable portrayal of Joe.
Expect this film to stick with you for a while. It's the terrible reality of it all that makes it so genuinely unshakable.
FINAL SAY: I want you to hurt them.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 90 mins
A gritty psychological thriller written and directed by Lynne Ramsay and based on the novella of the same name by Jonathan Ames. You Were Never Really Here delivers a tense 90 minute ride of violence and trauma that is not easy to shake off. Joaquin Phoenix won the 2017 Cannes Film Festival Best Actor award and director Lynne Ramsay also deservingly won Best Screenplay.
A traumatized man named Joe is a gun for hire, specialising in rescuing and recovering trafficked girls. He also cares for his elderly mother and suffers from horrific post traumatic flashbacks that stem from his difficult childhood and brutal military past.
The hits just keep on coming in this seriously stark movie and things just go from dark to grim as we traverse the seedy world that spawns Joe's assignments. It's not an easy ride, but it is all told in the most uncompromising and unique way.
Phoenix is again demonstrating just how much of a chameleon and master actor he is through his utterly disturbing and unforgettable portrayal of Joe.
Expect this film to stick with you for a while. It's the terrible reality of it all that makes it so genuinely unshakable.
FINAL SAY: I want you to hurt them.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
GAGA: FIVE FOOT TWO
Release Date: 2017
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
A cinema verite, Netflix Original documentary, outlining a year in the life of singer/songwriter Lady Gaga. By documenting the main events of her life whilst in production of her fifth album Joanne, we get an intimate peek into who Lady Gaga is as a person and a performer through her relationships both on and off the stage.
There is no doubt that Lady Gaga has managed to push the envelope at every turn of her career, and this is certainly no exception. At times she appears vulnerable and sheds many tears during the course of the film over her physical pains, insecurities and her family's history. And then at other times she comes across like a hurricane of energy, calling all the shots and behaving like a control freak and an ego-maniac.
She is clearly capable of holding her own and wrangling many tasks at one time, but she constantly appears to be moving around with an entourage of people by her side and she is literally never alone in front of the camera during the movie. I think that made it hard to tell, even from this expose of her life, who she really is when the cameras are not rolling and the audience has been removed.
Love her or hate her, this is definitely an interesting viewing. Although I still don't feel any closer to knowing who 'the real' Lady Gaga really is, I cannot deny that she is a talented powerhouse who will no doubt continue to be influential in both the music and fashion industry for many years to come.
FINAL SAY: A Perfect Illusion
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
A cinema verite, Netflix Original documentary, outlining a year in the life of singer/songwriter Lady Gaga. By documenting the main events of her life whilst in production of her fifth album Joanne, we get an intimate peek into who Lady Gaga is as a person and a performer through her relationships both on and off the stage.
There is no doubt that Lady Gaga has managed to push the envelope at every turn of her career, and this is certainly no exception. At times she appears vulnerable and sheds many tears during the course of the film over her physical pains, insecurities and her family's history. And then at other times she comes across like a hurricane of energy, calling all the shots and behaving like a control freak and an ego-maniac.
She is clearly capable of holding her own and wrangling many tasks at one time, but she constantly appears to be moving around with an entourage of people by her side and she is literally never alone in front of the camera during the movie. I think that made it hard to tell, even from this expose of her life, who she really is when the cameras are not rolling and the audience has been removed.
Love her or hate her, this is definitely an interesting viewing. Although I still don't feel any closer to knowing who 'the real' Lady Gaga really is, I cannot deny that she is a talented powerhouse who will no doubt continue to be influential in both the music and fashion industry for many years to come.
FINAL SAY: A Perfect Illusion
3 Chilli Peppers
ON YOGA: THE ARCHITECTURE OF PEACE
Release Date: 2017
Rating: M
Running Time: 97 mins
A documentary from director Heitor Dhalia that follows the experiences of American photographer Michael O'Neill as he photographs and interviews the great Yoga Masters of India, Tibet and New York.
This is one of the most beautifully realised and spiritually inspiring movies that I have ever seen. If you aren't already doing yoga, this movie will make you want to go and join the nearest ashram immediately! The magical soundtrack, the sage advise, the inspiring yogi masters turning themselves into pretzels, what's not to like?
To be fair, I am a fan of both yoga and photography so I am probably deeply biased in my love for this movie, but I don't care, I was into it completely. This movie was somewhat of an experience for me, and although it's not going to spin everyone's tyres, I really think that the terrific interviews with the older yoga practitioners are definitely worthy of everyone's attention.
FINAL SAY: Namaste.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2017
Rating: M
Running Time: 97 mins
A documentary from director Heitor Dhalia that follows the experiences of American photographer Michael O'Neill as he photographs and interviews the great Yoga Masters of India, Tibet and New York.
This is one of the most beautifully realised and spiritually inspiring movies that I have ever seen. If you aren't already doing yoga, this movie will make you want to go and join the nearest ashram immediately! The magical soundtrack, the sage advise, the inspiring yogi masters turning themselves into pretzels, what's not to like?
To be fair, I am a fan of both yoga and photography so I am probably deeply biased in my love for this movie, but I don't care, I was into it completely. This movie was somewhat of an experience for me, and although it's not going to spin everyone's tyres, I really think that the terrific interviews with the older yoga practitioners are definitely worthy of everyone's attention.
FINAL SAY: Namaste.
4 Chilli Peppers
THE WHITE HELMETS
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 40 mins
Directed by Academy Award nominated director Orlando von Einsiedel and produced by Joanna Natasegara, this Netflix original short documentary will completely move and inspire you.
Set between Aleppo, Syria and Turkey; volunteer rescuers known as 'The White Helmets' attempt to save lives and rescue trapped civilians from the destroyed remains of bombed buildings. Whilst the war rages on around them, these hopeful souls push on under the most difficult conditions and also deal with constant concerns about the welfare of their own families when they are away for mandatory training.
This harrowing snapshot of what life is like for ordinary Syrians is incredibly sobering. This film will shock you, both visually and emotionally, but the endurance of the human spirit is the overriding message here, and it is impossible to ignore. Everyone should see this film, even if they don't fully understand the context of the conflicts in Syria, because they will certainly understand the need for incredible people like 'The White Helmets.'
FINAL SAY: To save a life is to save all of humanity.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 40 mins
Directed by Academy Award nominated director Orlando von Einsiedel and produced by Joanna Natasegara, this Netflix original short documentary will completely move and inspire you.
Set between Aleppo, Syria and Turkey; volunteer rescuers known as 'The White Helmets' attempt to save lives and rescue trapped civilians from the destroyed remains of bombed buildings. Whilst the war rages on around them, these hopeful souls push on under the most difficult conditions and also deal with constant concerns about the welfare of their own families when they are away for mandatory training.
This harrowing snapshot of what life is like for ordinary Syrians is incredibly sobering. This film will shock you, both visually and emotionally, but the endurance of the human spirit is the overriding message here, and it is impossible to ignore. Everyone should see this film, even if they don't fully understand the context of the conflicts in Syria, because they will certainly understand the need for incredible people like 'The White Helmets.'
FINAL SAY: To save a life is to save all of humanity.
4 Chilli Peppers
KING JACK
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 80 minutes
This may be one of the most savage coming of age stories that I have ever encountered, and it took me a few days to fully digesting its contents. With it's graphic depictions of sadistic and relentless bullying, this film couldn't be placed on any other list than gritty. However, underneath it's bleak exterior, King Jack is also a hopeful tale about finding courage and strength in the face of great adversity.
Jack (Charlie Plummer) is regularly bullied by older teen Shane (Danny Flaherty) - a boy with a relentless appetite for torture. When his little cousin Ben (Cory Nichols) comes to stay, Jack finds himself torn between his obligations and his fears.
Above all else, this film feels authentic; the convincing child actors, the crappy backwash town and the storyline are all completely believable. In only 80 minutes King Jack manages to set up a story that will capture you and establish characters that will engage you, which some movies struggle to do in three hours.
FINAL SAY: You're not my friend, so don't try to act like it.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 80 minutes
This may be one of the most savage coming of age stories that I have ever encountered, and it took me a few days to fully digesting its contents. With it's graphic depictions of sadistic and relentless bullying, this film couldn't be placed on any other list than gritty. However, underneath it's bleak exterior, King Jack is also a hopeful tale about finding courage and strength in the face of great adversity.
Jack (Charlie Plummer) is regularly bullied by older teen Shane (Danny Flaherty) - a boy with a relentless appetite for torture. When his little cousin Ben (Cory Nichols) comes to stay, Jack finds himself torn between his obligations and his fears.
Above all else, this film feels authentic; the convincing child actors, the crappy backwash town and the storyline are all completely believable. In only 80 minutes King Jack manages to set up a story that will capture you and establish characters that will engage you, which some movies struggle to do in three hours.
FINAL SAY: You're not my friend, so don't try to act like it.
3 Chilli Peppers
I, DANIEL BLAKE
Release Date: 2016
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
A British drama, directed by Ken Loach and written by Paul Laverty, that outlines the struggles faced by people that are denied employment and support allowances by the government. I, Daniel Blake received both praise and criticism from politicians for what they claimed was an unfair portrayal of the staff working at Jobcentre. However, in spite of that, the film was received extremely well by both the public and the critics, and went onto win the Palme d'Or at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival.
Widower Daniel Blake suffers a heart attack on the job and is declared unfit for work by his cardiologist. After a routine work capability assessment by Jobcentre, he is deemed fit for work and is denied a support allowance. Daniel demands an appeal of his case, and as a consequence must live without support. He befriends a single mother that is also having a tough time and they bond through their mutual hardships.
This movie is so confronting, so harrowing and yet also, so very hopeful in many ways. The character of Daniel, played by Dave Johns, is just magnificent and really speaks with the voice of the downtrodden and disrespected. Hayley Squires is a powerhouse as single mother Katie, embodying all of the desperation and determination of her situation with a believeablitiy and likability that just shines.
This is a movie for the people and about the people; and it's an eye opening look at a system with many, many flaws.
FINAL SAY: I'm just really hungry.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
A British drama, directed by Ken Loach and written by Paul Laverty, that outlines the struggles faced by people that are denied employment and support allowances by the government. I, Daniel Blake received both praise and criticism from politicians for what they claimed was an unfair portrayal of the staff working at Jobcentre. However, in spite of that, the film was received extremely well by both the public and the critics, and went onto win the Palme d'Or at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival.
Widower Daniel Blake suffers a heart attack on the job and is declared unfit for work by his cardiologist. After a routine work capability assessment by Jobcentre, he is deemed fit for work and is denied a support allowance. Daniel demands an appeal of his case, and as a consequence must live without support. He befriends a single mother that is also having a tough time and they bond through their mutual hardships.
This movie is so confronting, so harrowing and yet also, so very hopeful in many ways. The character of Daniel, played by Dave Johns, is just magnificent and really speaks with the voice of the downtrodden and disrespected. Hayley Squires is a powerhouse as single mother Katie, embodying all of the desperation and determination of her situation with a believeablitiy and likability that just shines.
This is a movie for the people and about the people; and it's an eye opening look at a system with many, many flaws.
FINAL SAY: I'm just really hungry.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
HOTEL COOLGARDIE
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 83 mins
This confronting and at times distressing documentary from director Pete Gleeson focuses on an outback bar called Hotel Coolgardie, a pub situated between Australia's most remote city and it's largest gold mine. It is also a pub where the majority of the patronage are made up of desperate, disillusioned and mostly roughneck blokes, many of whom work the local mines.
Fresh off the plane from Finland, backpackers Lina and Steph undertake a three month consignment to work behind the bar at the Hotel Coolgardie to earn some fast cash. Unbeknownst to them, their arrival in town signals the locals to the arrival of some 'fresh meat' and the girls must continually fend off relentless advances from the booze-addled patrons whilst also dealing with their rude and demanding new boss.
This documentary is so affecting, I felt physically unsettled, uncomfortable and afraid for the poor Finnish girls welfare for the entire duration. What we are seeing here is an unflinching portrayal of a masculine and dark side of Australia that I thought had died a thankful death years ago, but apparently it hasn't. And as you watch these poor women get rotated out every few months for another batch of attractive and completely unaware backpackers, it's just heartbreaking stuff to behold. As a woman, this Australian documentary made me feel deeply ashamed and sickened.
FINAL SAY: Toxic masculinity and small town alcoholics.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2016
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 83 mins
This confronting and at times distressing documentary from director Pete Gleeson focuses on an outback bar called Hotel Coolgardie, a pub situated between Australia's most remote city and it's largest gold mine. It is also a pub where the majority of the patronage are made up of desperate, disillusioned and mostly roughneck blokes, many of whom work the local mines.
Fresh off the plane from Finland, backpackers Lina and Steph undertake a three month consignment to work behind the bar at the Hotel Coolgardie to earn some fast cash. Unbeknownst to them, their arrival in town signals the locals to the arrival of some 'fresh meat' and the girls must continually fend off relentless advances from the booze-addled patrons whilst also dealing with their rude and demanding new boss.
This documentary is so affecting, I felt physically unsettled, uncomfortable and afraid for the poor Finnish girls welfare for the entire duration. What we are seeing here is an unflinching portrayal of a masculine and dark side of Australia that I thought had died a thankful death years ago, but apparently it hasn't. And as you watch these poor women get rotated out every few months for another batch of attractive and completely unaware backpackers, it's just heartbreaking stuff to behold. As a woman, this Australian documentary made me feel deeply ashamed and sickened.
FINAL SAY: Toxic masculinity and small town alcoholics.
4 Chilli Peppers
ROOM
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 118 mins
Although this film is truly outstanding, it is not a movie that anyone can honestly say that they enjoyed. It's harrowing, there is no other way to put it, this is a genuinely challenging topic that will make you feel uneasy and emotional.
5 Year old Jack (Jacob Tremblay) and his mother Joy (Brie Larson) are being held prisoner by an abductor that they know only as Old Nick, in a confined and secret space that they call 'Room'. A risky, yet worthwhile, opportunity arises for Joy to get Jack out of 'Room', and as a consequence, the two suddenly find themselves rescued and free. However, the road to recovery, and the discovery of the real world that Jack has never experienced, presents a new and different set of challenges.
Larson and Tremblay present an incredibly convincing and deeply touching relationship throughout the movie, their unshakable mother-son bond really forms the foundation for everything else in the movie to hang off. There are some intensely gripping scenes and a good measure of believable tension that adds greatly to this hugely affecting story.
Even though this movie had an ultimately happy conclusion, it just left me wondering about how many other women there are, still out there, hidden away and suffering this form of abuse and torture....right now....and that thought is just so very unsettling.
FINAL SAY: It can't really be 'room' if door's open.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 118 mins
Although this film is truly outstanding, it is not a movie that anyone can honestly say that they enjoyed. It's harrowing, there is no other way to put it, this is a genuinely challenging topic that will make you feel uneasy and emotional.
5 Year old Jack (Jacob Tremblay) and his mother Joy (Brie Larson) are being held prisoner by an abductor that they know only as Old Nick, in a confined and secret space that they call 'Room'. A risky, yet worthwhile, opportunity arises for Joy to get Jack out of 'Room', and as a consequence, the two suddenly find themselves rescued and free. However, the road to recovery, and the discovery of the real world that Jack has never experienced, presents a new and different set of challenges.
Larson and Tremblay present an incredibly convincing and deeply touching relationship throughout the movie, their unshakable mother-son bond really forms the foundation for everything else in the movie to hang off. There are some intensely gripping scenes and a good measure of believable tension that adds greatly to this hugely affecting story.
Even though this movie had an ultimately happy conclusion, it just left me wondering about how many other women there are, still out there, hidden away and suffering this form of abuse and torture....right now....and that thought is just so very unsettling.
FINAL SAY: It can't really be 'room' if door's open.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
AMY
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 122 mins
A British documentary outlining the life and death of iconic singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse. Thoughtfully directed by Asif Kapadia, Amy is a collection of interviews with people that were intimately involved with her, private photographs and previously unseen archival film footage, played in chronological order to give us a detailed portrait of who Amy Winehouse really was.
Despite her incredible talent and the commercial success of her two albums Frank and Back to Black, Amy was a troubled and tortured person, plagued with bad relationships, mental health issues, bulimia and drug and alcohol addiction. Buckling under the pressure of the media, her personal demons and also succumbing to her many addictions, Amy's life sadly ended in 2011 when she died of alcohol poisoning at the tender age of 27.
This is a really sad documentary, it seemed clear from the beginning that Amy was never cut out for the big time, and lacked the emotional support that she so dearly needed in her life. Her role models and infatuations always appeared to be for people that lacked any sort of moral compass, and she appears to be the gravy boat that seemed to keep everyone else afloat whilst she sunk further and further down into the mire of her addictions. This movie left me feeling a bit depressed that someone could be at the front of so much media hype, and yet still be completely invisible in so many ways. Not a heartwarming story in any way, shape or form.
FINAL SAY: I do suffer from depression I suppose. Which isn't that unusual, a lot of people do.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 122 mins
A British documentary outlining the life and death of iconic singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse. Thoughtfully directed by Asif Kapadia, Amy is a collection of interviews with people that were intimately involved with her, private photographs and previously unseen archival film footage, played in chronological order to give us a detailed portrait of who Amy Winehouse really was.
Despite her incredible talent and the commercial success of her two albums Frank and Back to Black, Amy was a troubled and tortured person, plagued with bad relationships, mental health issues, bulimia and drug and alcohol addiction. Buckling under the pressure of the media, her personal demons and also succumbing to her many addictions, Amy's life sadly ended in 2011 when she died of alcohol poisoning at the tender age of 27.
This is a really sad documentary, it seemed clear from the beginning that Amy was never cut out for the big time, and lacked the emotional support that she so dearly needed in her life. Her role models and infatuations always appeared to be for people that lacked any sort of moral compass, and she appears to be the gravy boat that seemed to keep everyone else afloat whilst she sunk further and further down into the mire of her addictions. This movie left me feeling a bit depressed that someone could be at the front of so much media hype, and yet still be completely invisible in so many ways. Not a heartwarming story in any way, shape or form.
FINAL SAY: I do suffer from depression I suppose. Which isn't that unusual, a lot of people do.
4 Chilli Peppers
BEASTS OF NO NATION
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 137 mins
A gritty war drama written, co-produced and directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga who also acted as his own cinematographer during filming. Based on the novel of the same name by Uzodinma Iweala, Beasts of No Nation comes on strong with it's striking and horrific depiction of a young boy who becomes a ruthless child soldier.
Young Agu's Ghanaian village is torn apart when rebel and government forces begin fighting in the streets. His mother and sister flee for safety, his father and brother are murdered and Agu escapes capture by hiding in the jungle. He is found by a ruthless militia group that operate under a vicious commander (Idris Elba) and after undergoing a brutal initiation process he becomes a fully-fledged member and begins his transformation from boy to soldier.
This is a sobering and uncompromising look at the human cost of war and the exploitation of the innocent and desperate. Idris Elba deservingly won a SAG award for his unforgettable and disturbingly good portrayal of the opportunistic sadist commander, and I am genuinely confused about why he didn't get an Oscar nomination that year as well. All of the child performances are amazingly good, especially Abraham Nii Attah who portrays Agu's transformation perfectly and was awarded the Marcello Mastroianni Award for Best Young Actor at the 72nd Venice International Film Festival.
Beasts of No Nation is by no means an easy watch, but it is most definitely a worthy one.
FINAL SAY: I saw terrible things....and I did terrible things.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 137 mins
A gritty war drama written, co-produced and directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga who also acted as his own cinematographer during filming. Based on the novel of the same name by Uzodinma Iweala, Beasts of No Nation comes on strong with it's striking and horrific depiction of a young boy who becomes a ruthless child soldier.
Young Agu's Ghanaian village is torn apart when rebel and government forces begin fighting in the streets. His mother and sister flee for safety, his father and brother are murdered and Agu escapes capture by hiding in the jungle. He is found by a ruthless militia group that operate under a vicious commander (Idris Elba) and after undergoing a brutal initiation process he becomes a fully-fledged member and begins his transformation from boy to soldier.
This is a sobering and uncompromising look at the human cost of war and the exploitation of the innocent and desperate. Idris Elba deservingly won a SAG award for his unforgettable and disturbingly good portrayal of the opportunistic sadist commander, and I am genuinely confused about why he didn't get an Oscar nomination that year as well. All of the child performances are amazingly good, especially Abraham Nii Attah who portrays Agu's transformation perfectly and was awarded the Marcello Mastroianni Award for Best Young Actor at the 72nd Venice International Film Festival.
Beasts of No Nation is by no means an easy watch, but it is most definitely a worthy one.
FINAL SAY: I saw terrible things....and I did terrible things.
4 Chilli Peppers
BE MY CAT: A FILM FOR ANNE
Release Date: 2015
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 87 mins
A Romanian found footage psychological thriller that was written, directed and starred in by Adrian Tofei, who plays himself in this movie. I was so shocked and convinced by the way that this film plays out that I had to go onto Google just to see if it was real, which thankfully it is not. However, its gritty and raw depiction of an obsessed man on a killing spree is certainly affecting in all the wrong ways.
Adrian is an aspiring Romanian film maker who is obsessed with the Hollywood actress Anne Hathaway. After seeing her play Catwoman in The Dark Knight Rises, Adrian will stop at nothing to get Anne to appear in a movie that he has written and designed specifically for her. He makes a plea to her through a video, which showcases him using three local actresses to shoot demo scenes that are nothing short of shocking.
A hidden gem and a meta movie like no other, Adrian's portrayal of a lovestruck, Hollywood obsessed stalker is so good that you will be utterly creeped out by his manner and behaviour. This is a shock watch that blurs the lines between reality and fiction and trust me when I say that you will not forget seeing this movie.
FINAL SAY: I will change the world with you Anne!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 87 mins
A Romanian found footage psychological thriller that was written, directed and starred in by Adrian Tofei, who plays himself in this movie. I was so shocked and convinced by the way that this film plays out that I had to go onto Google just to see if it was real, which thankfully it is not. However, its gritty and raw depiction of an obsessed man on a killing spree is certainly affecting in all the wrong ways.
Adrian is an aspiring Romanian film maker who is obsessed with the Hollywood actress Anne Hathaway. After seeing her play Catwoman in The Dark Knight Rises, Adrian will stop at nothing to get Anne to appear in a movie that he has written and designed specifically for her. He makes a plea to her through a video, which showcases him using three local actresses to shoot demo scenes that are nothing short of shocking.
A hidden gem and a meta movie like no other, Adrian's portrayal of a lovestruck, Hollywood obsessed stalker is so good that you will be utterly creeped out by his manner and behaviour. This is a shock watch that blurs the lines between reality and fiction and trust me when I say that you will not forget seeing this movie.
FINAL SAY: I will change the world with you Anne!
3 Chilli Peppers
STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 167 mins
A powerful biopic about the rise and fall of the groundbreaking 1980's band N.W.A. Based on factual events, we follow the lives of Ice Cube, Dr Dre, Eazy-E, DJ Yella and MC Ren as they navigate their way from the ghettos of Compton to the spotlights of fame and fortune.
O'Shea Jackson Jr, Ice Cube's real life son, does a dazzling job of portraying his father in his younger years. I was blown away by how much of a dead ringer he is for his father, embodying the role perfectly and demonstrating his own talent. Notable performances were also given by Corey Hawkins as Dr Dre, Jason Mitchell as Eazy-E and Paul Giamatti as Jerry Heller, their questionable music and business manager.
There are more than a few unpleasant characters and interludes going on in this film, especially those involving the clearly discriminatory law enforcement and some of the less savory Compton hoods, but in general this film made me pleased to see a group of nobodies rise up against the odds and make not only a name for themselves, but an ongoing legacy.
FINAL SAY: Fuck the Police!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 167 mins
A powerful biopic about the rise and fall of the groundbreaking 1980's band N.W.A. Based on factual events, we follow the lives of Ice Cube, Dr Dre, Eazy-E, DJ Yella and MC Ren as they navigate their way from the ghettos of Compton to the spotlights of fame and fortune.
O'Shea Jackson Jr, Ice Cube's real life son, does a dazzling job of portraying his father in his younger years. I was blown away by how much of a dead ringer he is for his father, embodying the role perfectly and demonstrating his own talent. Notable performances were also given by Corey Hawkins as Dr Dre, Jason Mitchell as Eazy-E and Paul Giamatti as Jerry Heller, their questionable music and business manager.
There are more than a few unpleasant characters and interludes going on in this film, especially those involving the clearly discriminatory law enforcement and some of the less savory Compton hoods, but in general this film made me pleased to see a group of nobodies rise up against the odds and make not only a name for themselves, but an ongoing legacy.
FINAL SAY: Fuck the Police!
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE MASK YOU LIVE IN
Release Date: 2015
Rating: M
Running Time: 97 mins
Unfairly slammed by critics for being anti-feminist, which in my mind is a load of bullshit, this interesting and at times moving documentary discusses the ways in which males are raised in society today. Written, directed and produced by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, The Mask You Live In premiered at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival and explores what Newsom perceives to be harmful notions about masculinity in American Culture.
Does today's narrow view on masculinity harm males as they are growing up? By examining the lives of various boys and men, this documentary attempts to uncover some of the reasons behind male behaviour in America.
I watched this documentary with my teenage son and he was extremely moved by the content and said that he felt that some of the issues raised in the movie were quite relatable. I can see why some people would think that this documentary is 'preachy' but there is a real message here about gender stereotyping and the pressures that are placed upon men to be strong and dependable, that cannot, and should not, be ignored. This documentary is not seeking to excuse poor male behaviour, but rather unearth it, so that we can prevent problems from occurring in the future.
This documentary should be watched in more high schools, not just in America but across the globe.
FINAL SAY: Seeing the behaviours and trying to understand them is not excusing them.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: M
Running Time: 97 mins
Unfairly slammed by critics for being anti-feminist, which in my mind is a load of bullshit, this interesting and at times moving documentary discusses the ways in which males are raised in society today. Written, directed and produced by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, The Mask You Live In premiered at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival and explores what Newsom perceives to be harmful notions about masculinity in American Culture.
Does today's narrow view on masculinity harm males as they are growing up? By examining the lives of various boys and men, this documentary attempts to uncover some of the reasons behind male behaviour in America.
I watched this documentary with my teenage son and he was extremely moved by the content and said that he felt that some of the issues raised in the movie were quite relatable. I can see why some people would think that this documentary is 'preachy' but there is a real message here about gender stereotyping and the pressures that are placed upon men to be strong and dependable, that cannot, and should not, be ignored. This documentary is not seeking to excuse poor male behaviour, but rather unearth it, so that we can prevent problems from occurring in the future.
This documentary should be watched in more high schools, not just in America but across the globe.
FINAL SAY: Seeing the behaviours and trying to understand them is not excusing them.
3 Chilli Peppers
TANGERINE
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 88 mins
There are no bright lights and glitzy apartments happening in this part of Tinseltown, that's for sure. Directed by Sean Baker, this indie film covers some truly controversial material from pimps, prostitutes and drugs to gender roles and secret homosexuality, nothing is held back here and that is what makes this film so good. The raw energy comes on strong with lots of seedy environments, damaged characters and concerning narrative twists, making the overall effect utterly unpredictable.
Fresh out of jail transgender prostitute Sin-Dee hears that her pimp boyfriend Chester has been getting it on with a real-fish (real girl) named Dinah whilst she was incarcerated. Determine to get her retribution, Sin-Dee sets out on Christmas Eve to find Dinah and Chester and confront them both about their affair.
Hard hitting, realistic and riveting, this movie treads a fine line between humour and heartache, balancing on a razors edge and moving at a dizzying pace, its an eye opening watch that shouldn't be missed.
FINAL SAY: Out here, it is all about our hustle.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2015
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 88 mins
There are no bright lights and glitzy apartments happening in this part of Tinseltown, that's for sure. Directed by Sean Baker, this indie film covers some truly controversial material from pimps, prostitutes and drugs to gender roles and secret homosexuality, nothing is held back here and that is what makes this film so good. The raw energy comes on strong with lots of seedy environments, damaged characters and concerning narrative twists, making the overall effect utterly unpredictable.
Fresh out of jail transgender prostitute Sin-Dee hears that her pimp boyfriend Chester has been getting it on with a real-fish (real girl) named Dinah whilst she was incarcerated. Determine to get her retribution, Sin-Dee sets out on Christmas Eve to find Dinah and Chester and confront them both about their affair.
Hard hitting, realistic and riveting, this movie treads a fine line between humour and heartache, balancing on a razors edge and moving at a dizzying pace, its an eye opening watch that shouldn't be missed.
FINAL SAY: Out here, it is all about our hustle.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THAT SUGAR FILM
Release Date: 2014
Rating: PG
Running Time: 90 mins
If you get nothing from this film apart from a larger awareness about all of the hidden sugars that you are consuming, then it is worth a look. In the same vein as Supersize Me, Australian actor Damon Gameau undertakes a radical change in his diet and consumes an obscene amount of sugar to demonstrate the evils of a high sugar intake and the effects that it has on the body.
This is hardly original or life changing information, but it is interestingly and entertainingly presented. Everyone knows that sugar is bad for you, it's kind of a no brainer, but knowing about the amount that is concealed in seemingly 'healthy' foods is certainly information that a lot more people do need to know about. That is really driven home here, proving that it's not the 'amount' of calories that you consume so much as the 'type' of calories that you consume, that are making you fat and unhealthy.
FINAL SAY: Stay clear of the fizzy drinks and cereals forever.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: PG
Running Time: 90 mins
If you get nothing from this film apart from a larger awareness about all of the hidden sugars that you are consuming, then it is worth a look. In the same vein as Supersize Me, Australian actor Damon Gameau undertakes a radical change in his diet and consumes an obscene amount of sugar to demonstrate the evils of a high sugar intake and the effects that it has on the body.
This is hardly original or life changing information, but it is interestingly and entertainingly presented. Everyone knows that sugar is bad for you, it's kind of a no brainer, but knowing about the amount that is concealed in seemingly 'healthy' foods is certainly information that a lot more people do need to know about. That is really driven home here, proving that it's not the 'amount' of calories that you consume so much as the 'type' of calories that you consume, that are making you fat and unhealthy.
FINAL SAY: Stay clear of the fizzy drinks and cereals forever.
3 Chilli Peppers
VIRUNGA
Release Date: 2014
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
A British documentary film directed by Orlando von Einsiedel that focuses on the conservation work of park rangers within the Congo's Virunga National Park. Steeped in political and economic conflict, this controversial and heart wrenching tale was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a few brave souls continually put their lives on the line at the Virunga National Park to try and protect the world's last natural mountain gorillas from extinction. With threats coming from war, poaching and the continual threat of oil exploration, they have their work cut out for them.
The story centres around the lives of four individuals, gorilla caregiver Andre Bauma, central sector warden Rodrigue Mugaruka Katembo, chief warden Emmanuel do Merode and French investigative journalist Melanie Gouby as together they try to expose the internal and external corruptions and also protect the welfare of these beautiful creatures.
Tough going at times, but also completely inspiring in so many ways. The gorillas are, as you would imagine, complete scene stealers and the landscapes (when they aren't being used as a war zone) are utterly magical.
Virunga is a very sobering look at a wildlife and conservation issue that is, as yet, still far from solved.
FINAL SAY: You must justify why you are on this earth.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
A British documentary film directed by Orlando von Einsiedel that focuses on the conservation work of park rangers within the Congo's Virunga National Park. Steeped in political and economic conflict, this controversial and heart wrenching tale was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a few brave souls continually put their lives on the line at the Virunga National Park to try and protect the world's last natural mountain gorillas from extinction. With threats coming from war, poaching and the continual threat of oil exploration, they have their work cut out for them.
The story centres around the lives of four individuals, gorilla caregiver Andre Bauma, central sector warden Rodrigue Mugaruka Katembo, chief warden Emmanuel do Merode and French investigative journalist Melanie Gouby as together they try to expose the internal and external corruptions and also protect the welfare of these beautiful creatures.
Tough going at times, but also completely inspiring in so many ways. The gorillas are, as you would imagine, complete scene stealers and the landscapes (when they aren't being used as a war zone) are utterly magical.
Virunga is a very sobering look at a wildlife and conservation issue that is, as yet, still far from solved.
FINAL SAY: You must justify why you are on this earth.
4 Chilli Peppers
GLASSLAND
Release Date: 2014
Rating: M
Running Time: 93 mins
An intimate Irish drama, written and directed by Gerard Barrett, that tells an emotional and enduring tale of one young man's love for his alcoholic mother. Both grim and deeply compassionate, this movie drags alcoholism kicking and screaming into the light as we are thrust into the troubling world of the main protagonists.
A struggling taxi driver (Jack Reynor) desperately tries to get his reckless and alcoholic mother (Toni Collette) to agree to rehabilitation before it is too late.
The two lead roles are played out perfectly by Reynor and Collette, and both are desperately convincing in their personal plights and ongoing struggles together. This movie packs a huge emotional punch, and it left me feeling tremendously sad and slightly exhausted when it was over.
FINAL SAY: Tainted Love
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2014
Rating: M
Running Time: 93 mins
An intimate Irish drama, written and directed by Gerard Barrett, that tells an emotional and enduring tale of one young man's love for his alcoholic mother. Both grim and deeply compassionate, this movie drags alcoholism kicking and screaming into the light as we are thrust into the troubling world of the main protagonists.
A struggling taxi driver (Jack Reynor) desperately tries to get his reckless and alcoholic mother (Toni Collette) to agree to rehabilitation before it is too late.
The two lead roles are played out perfectly by Reynor and Collette, and both are desperately convincing in their personal plights and ongoing struggles together. This movie packs a huge emotional punch, and it left me feeling tremendously sad and slightly exhausted when it was over.
FINAL SAY: Tainted Love
3 Chilli Peppers
NYMPHOMANIAC VOLUME 1 AND 2
Release Date: 2013 and 2014
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 241 mins (cut version)
Directed by Lars von Trier, and the third and final instalment in his unofficially titled 'Depression Trilogy,' Nymphomaniac is certainly not intended to be viewed by the faint-hearted. Having seen the cut version myself, I can only imagine what might be on the extra 84 minutes of footage that is on the director's cut, but trust me when I say that you will get the picture without that extra length. Nymphomaniac had more graphic sex than any other movie that I have seen before, excluding porn, so if you can't handle seeing full penetration scenes and oral sex, than you really shouldn't bother with this.
A nymphomaniac named Joe (Charlotte Gainsbourg) recounts the events of her erotic past through a series of eight chapters to a stranger (Stellan Skarsgard) that finds her beaten and left for dead on the street.
More than just a story about sexuality, Nymphomaniac also delves into scientific, theoretical and religious discussion, which I enjoyed intensely. There was something intriguing and almost hypnotic about Joe's recount that I found riveting, and although some of the sex scenes were a tad confronting, there was a worthy story line stringing it all together. I know that real pornographic actors were used in the filming of Nymphomaniac, but in some of those scenes it genuinely looked like Gainsbourg was really going there, proving that she is one gutsy and dedicated actor.
Nymphomaniac is certainly not my favourite von Trier effort, and the first instalment is clearly stronger than the second, but in spite of it's shortcomings, I believe that it is still a worthy watch.
FINAL SAY: For me, love was just lust with jealousy added.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013 and 2014
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 241 mins (cut version)
Directed by Lars von Trier, and the third and final instalment in his unofficially titled 'Depression Trilogy,' Nymphomaniac is certainly not intended to be viewed by the faint-hearted. Having seen the cut version myself, I can only imagine what might be on the extra 84 minutes of footage that is on the director's cut, but trust me when I say that you will get the picture without that extra length. Nymphomaniac had more graphic sex than any other movie that I have seen before, excluding porn, so if you can't handle seeing full penetration scenes and oral sex, than you really shouldn't bother with this.
A nymphomaniac named Joe (Charlotte Gainsbourg) recounts the events of her erotic past through a series of eight chapters to a stranger (Stellan Skarsgard) that finds her beaten and left for dead on the street.
More than just a story about sexuality, Nymphomaniac also delves into scientific, theoretical and religious discussion, which I enjoyed intensely. There was something intriguing and almost hypnotic about Joe's recount that I found riveting, and although some of the sex scenes were a tad confronting, there was a worthy story line stringing it all together. I know that real pornographic actors were used in the filming of Nymphomaniac, but in some of those scenes it genuinely looked like Gainsbourg was really going there, proving that she is one gutsy and dedicated actor.
Nymphomaniac is certainly not my favourite von Trier effort, and the first instalment is clearly stronger than the second, but in spite of it's shortcomings, I believe that it is still a worthy watch.
FINAL SAY: For me, love was just lust with jealousy added.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
BLUE RUIN
Release Date: 2013
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 90 mins
This low budget independent movie is a stripped down revenge thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Directed by Jeremy Saulnier, Blue Ruin won the FIPRESCI International Critics Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and has received widely positive reviews since it's release.
When vagrant drifter Dwight learns that his parents killer is about to be released from jail, he returns to his hometown and his estranged family to exact his revenge.
This is gritty and suspenseful viewing, simply shot and not bogged down with unnecessary dialogue and back story, Blue Ruin proves that you don't need all of the bells and whistles to produce something intensely gripping and atmospheric.
FINAL SAY: I'd forgive you if you were crazy, but you're not. You're weak.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 90 mins
This low budget independent movie is a stripped down revenge thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Directed by Jeremy Saulnier, Blue Ruin won the FIPRESCI International Critics Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and has received widely positive reviews since it's release.
When vagrant drifter Dwight learns that his parents killer is about to be released from jail, he returns to his hometown and his estranged family to exact his revenge.
This is gritty and suspenseful viewing, simply shot and not bogged down with unnecessary dialogue and back story, Blue Ruin proves that you don't need all of the bells and whistles to produce something intensely gripping and atmospheric.
FINAL SAY: I'd forgive you if you were crazy, but you're not. You're weak.
3 Chilli Peppers
BLACKFISH
Release Date: 2013
Rating: M
Running Time: 83 mins
If you weren't already sceptical about businesses that make tonnes of money out of animals being used as side-shows, Blackfish is going to convert you into a full blown hater of any corporation that keeps animals captive for the entertainment of humans. By telling the story of Tilikum, an orca that was stolen from its mother and held captive by SeaWorld, this documentary film offers a first hand look at just how barbaric, cruel and consequential the terrible choices of greedy corporations are for everyone involved.
After being captured in the 80's off the coast of Iceland and then continuously harassed by other orcas and kept in inappropriate enclosures, poor beaten down Tilikum, a massive male killer whale, eventually snaps and claims the life of a trainer.
This is a seriously tough watch, I was so uncomfortable with the dreadful treatment of the orcas in this film that I felt physically sick and vowed never again to give my money to any company that profits from the capture of wild animals. A sad, important and utterly unforgettable watch, Blackfish is powerful and haunting; and it delivers an important message to the public about the realities behind some of these so called 'family' businesses. An absolute must-see documentary that shouldn't be missed.
FINAL SAY: They're an animal that possesses great spiritual power and they're not to be meddled with.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: M
Running Time: 83 mins
If you weren't already sceptical about businesses that make tonnes of money out of animals being used as side-shows, Blackfish is going to convert you into a full blown hater of any corporation that keeps animals captive for the entertainment of humans. By telling the story of Tilikum, an orca that was stolen from its mother and held captive by SeaWorld, this documentary film offers a first hand look at just how barbaric, cruel and consequential the terrible choices of greedy corporations are for everyone involved.
After being captured in the 80's off the coast of Iceland and then continuously harassed by other orcas and kept in inappropriate enclosures, poor beaten down Tilikum, a massive male killer whale, eventually snaps and claims the life of a trainer.
This is a seriously tough watch, I was so uncomfortable with the dreadful treatment of the orcas in this film that I felt physically sick and vowed never again to give my money to any company that profits from the capture of wild animals. A sad, important and utterly unforgettable watch, Blackfish is powerful and haunting; and it delivers an important message to the public about the realities behind some of these so called 'family' businesses. An absolute must-see documentary that shouldn't be missed.
FINAL SAY: They're an animal that possesses great spiritual power and they're not to be meddled with.
4 Chilli Peppers
CHEAP THRILLS
Release Date: 2013
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 89 mins
A short romp into the worlds of two types of people, people with too much money and people with none. Matching the dark build and grim effect of a decent Twilight Zone tale, this black comedy takes so many dark turns that it really fails to deliver any kind of humour whatsoever, but comes out on top with it's disturbing study of desperate and depraved individuals.
Old, broke buddies Craig and Vince reunite after a five year hiatus, at a seedy bar. They are coerced into having a drink with an unusual couple; wildman Colin and his young, beautiful, but clearly disengaged wife, Violet. After establishing that money is no object to them, the couple begin to pit bets, raising the rewards and the challenges as the night progresses.
Held together by some terrific casting, in particular Pat Healy as Craig, this is a nasty and yet completely engaging film. The strong social commentary and moral conundrum add to the tension and raise this film out of the realms of gore porn, and although it isn't pretty, it is worth a look.
FINAL SAY: How low can you go?
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 89 mins
A short romp into the worlds of two types of people, people with too much money and people with none. Matching the dark build and grim effect of a decent Twilight Zone tale, this black comedy takes so many dark turns that it really fails to deliver any kind of humour whatsoever, but comes out on top with it's disturbing study of desperate and depraved individuals.
Old, broke buddies Craig and Vince reunite after a five year hiatus, at a seedy bar. They are coerced into having a drink with an unusual couple; wildman Colin and his young, beautiful, but clearly disengaged wife, Violet. After establishing that money is no object to them, the couple begin to pit bets, raising the rewards and the challenges as the night progresses.
Held together by some terrific casting, in particular Pat Healy as Craig, this is a nasty and yet completely engaging film. The strong social commentary and moral conundrum add to the tension and raise this film out of the realms of gore porn, and although it isn't pretty, it is worth a look.
FINAL SAY: How low can you go?
3 Chilli Peppers
THE WEIGHT OF ELEPHANTS
Release Date: 2013
Rating: M
Running Time: 83 mins
Perhaps they should have called this film 'the weight of your eyelids after you cry your heart out', because I really felt overwhelmed by this film and had a teary moment more than once whilst I was watching it. Adapted from Sonya Hartnett's coming of age novel Of A Boy and directed by Daniel Borgman, this Danish-New Zealand co-production is as beautifully touching as it is desperately grim.
Eleven year old Adrian's life is a gauntlet of difficulties. The kids at school bully him, his mother abandoned him and the uncle that he lives with is mentally unwell. Then Adrian meets Nicole, a mysterious and rebellious ten year old girl, that has troubles of her own.
This is one of the saddest coming of age tales that I have ever encountered, which is why I felt compelled to put it on my gritty list. The cinematography here is overwhelmingly good, the details are just impeccable, which makes the overall feel of the film deeply affecting. Young Demos Murphy is tremendously good as Adrian, offering such a realistic depiction of a torn pre-teen that I was instantly roped into the story.
FINAL SAY: Visually beautiful but hellish on the tear ducts.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2013
Rating: M
Running Time: 83 mins
Perhaps they should have called this film 'the weight of your eyelids after you cry your heart out', because I really felt overwhelmed by this film and had a teary moment more than once whilst I was watching it. Adapted from Sonya Hartnett's coming of age novel Of A Boy and directed by Daniel Borgman, this Danish-New Zealand co-production is as beautifully touching as it is desperately grim.
Eleven year old Adrian's life is a gauntlet of difficulties. The kids at school bully him, his mother abandoned him and the uncle that he lives with is mentally unwell. Then Adrian meets Nicole, a mysterious and rebellious ten year old girl, that has troubles of her own.
This is one of the saddest coming of age tales that I have ever encountered, which is why I felt compelled to put it on my gritty list. The cinematography here is overwhelmingly good, the details are just impeccable, which makes the overall feel of the film deeply affecting. Young Demos Murphy is tremendously good as Adrian, offering such a realistic depiction of a torn pre-teen that I was instantly roped into the story.
FINAL SAY: Visually beautiful but hellish on the tear ducts.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE IMPOSTER
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 99 mins
A British-American documentary about the 1997 case of the French trickster Frederic Bourdin, who impersonated Nicholas Barclay, a Texas teenager that disappeared from his home town at the age of 13 in 1994. Directed by Bart Layton, the documentary includes interviews with Bourdin himself, the family of Nicholas Barclay, the investigators that were working on the case, as well as dramatic reenacted sequences.
The film won the Grand Jury's Knight Documentary Competition at the Miami International Film Festival and was also nominated for a Grand Jury World Cinema award at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival. The Imposter was critically acclaimed for it's unnerving portrayal of a clearly deranged and manipulative individual, and his shockingly relentless attempts to pose as other people.
This story is so disturbing and so utterly unbelievable, you won't be able to get your head around what has actually taken place, I was riveted and horrified; and I still had so many questions rolling through my mind well after the film ended, this is truly thought provoking material.
FINAL SAY: Truth is stranger than fiction.
3 Chilli peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 99 mins
A British-American documentary about the 1997 case of the French trickster Frederic Bourdin, who impersonated Nicholas Barclay, a Texas teenager that disappeared from his home town at the age of 13 in 1994. Directed by Bart Layton, the documentary includes interviews with Bourdin himself, the family of Nicholas Barclay, the investigators that were working on the case, as well as dramatic reenacted sequences.
The film won the Grand Jury's Knight Documentary Competition at the Miami International Film Festival and was also nominated for a Grand Jury World Cinema award at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival. The Imposter was critically acclaimed for it's unnerving portrayal of a clearly deranged and manipulative individual, and his shockingly relentless attempts to pose as other people.
This story is so disturbing and so utterly unbelievable, you won't be able to get your head around what has actually taken place, I was riveted and horrified; and I still had so many questions rolling through my mind well after the film ended, this is truly thought provoking material.
FINAL SAY: Truth is stranger than fiction.
3 Chilli peppers
THE IMPOSSIBLE
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 114 mins
Real life tragedy and disaster movies are always a hard watch for me, I find them so much more disturbing and harrowing than any horror movie and I usually spend half of the film with a tissue in my hand sobbing on and off and the other half shouting things out at the actors on screen like I can actually make an impact on the outcomes of the already played out storyline. And so was the case with The Impossible, lots of sobbing and lots of shouting at the screen for the duration.
The Impossible is based on a recount from the Belon family of five, who were on vacation in Thailand when the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami hit the coastline right where their holiday resort was located.
Directed by J. A. Bayona and written by Sergio G. Sanchez, this movie successfully builds tension and fear in an immersive and terrifying way. Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor and Tom Holland take on the lead roles with a lot of commitment and their distraught behaviours and genuine anguish really translates well here.
As far as disaster movies go, this is definitely one of best that I have ever seen, but I'm pretty sure that it would've had a detrimental impact on tourism to Phuket, Thailand for a while after its release; it certainly turned me off a coastal holiday for a while that's for sure.
FINAL SAY: It's a beautiful mystery, isn't it?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2012
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 114 mins
Real life tragedy and disaster movies are always a hard watch for me, I find them so much more disturbing and harrowing than any horror movie and I usually spend half of the film with a tissue in my hand sobbing on and off and the other half shouting things out at the actors on screen like I can actually make an impact on the outcomes of the already played out storyline. And so was the case with The Impossible, lots of sobbing and lots of shouting at the screen for the duration.
The Impossible is based on a recount from the Belon family of five, who were on vacation in Thailand when the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami hit the coastline right where their holiday resort was located.
Directed by J. A. Bayona and written by Sergio G. Sanchez, this movie successfully builds tension and fear in an immersive and terrifying way. Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor and Tom Holland take on the lead roles with a lot of commitment and their distraught behaviours and genuine anguish really translates well here.
As far as disaster movies go, this is definitely one of best that I have ever seen, but I'm pretty sure that it would've had a detrimental impact on tourism to Phuket, Thailand for a while after its release; it certainly turned me off a coastal holiday for a while that's for sure.
FINAL SAY: It's a beautiful mystery, isn't it?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
TYRANNOSAUR
Release Date: 2011
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 92 mins
Here's a movie that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled. Written and directed by Paddy Considine, a first time director, that took home the The World Cinema Award for Directing at the Sundance Film Festival and the BAFTA for outstanding debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer on the steam of this incredible film.
Joseph (Peter Mullan) is a volatile man, filled with explosive rage and aggression that is driving him mad. He meets Hannah (Olivia Colman) a kind, yet deeply troubled religious woman that runs the local charity shop. An unlikely relationship develops between the two as they find a form of redemption and salvation in each other, and some respite from their troubled lives.
Mullan and Colman are absolutely amazing here, both gaining a lot of attention and accolades for their stirring and emotionally charged performances. This film will leave you reeling with it's harrowing depiction of domestic violence and abuse filled interludes, there is nothing feel good about this movie at all. I felt like I wanted to cry, even when the characters weren't engaging in anything but a simple conversation and a pint of lager. This is stark and depressing cinema from start to end, but it is also exceptionally well done and for that reason, it is unmissable.
FINAL SAY: I wanted it to soak into me, and brighten me up.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 92 mins
Here's a movie that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled. Written and directed by Paddy Considine, a first time director, that took home the The World Cinema Award for Directing at the Sundance Film Festival and the BAFTA for outstanding debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer on the steam of this incredible film.
Joseph (Peter Mullan) is a volatile man, filled with explosive rage and aggression that is driving him mad. He meets Hannah (Olivia Colman) a kind, yet deeply troubled religious woman that runs the local charity shop. An unlikely relationship develops between the two as they find a form of redemption and salvation in each other, and some respite from their troubled lives.
Mullan and Colman are absolutely amazing here, both gaining a lot of attention and accolades for their stirring and emotionally charged performances. This film will leave you reeling with it's harrowing depiction of domestic violence and abuse filled interludes, there is nothing feel good about this movie at all. I felt like I wanted to cry, even when the characters weren't engaging in anything but a simple conversation and a pint of lager. This is stark and depressing cinema from start to end, but it is also exceptionally well done and for that reason, it is unmissable.
FINAL SAY: I wanted it to soak into me, and brighten me up.
4 Chilli Peppers
BULLY
Release Date: 2011
Rating: M
Running Time: 98 mins
This documentary is a must see for everyone, but essential viewing for anyone that works with children or has children of their own. It's thought provoking material about a problem that we as all too often turn a blind eye to.
This year over 13 million kids will be bullied at school, online, on the bus, at home, on their phones and in the streets of their towns. BULLY is the first feature length documentary to show how we have all been affected by bullying, whether we've been victims, perpetrators or silent witnesses.
This documentary really highlights all of the problems out there; but unfortunately doesn't deliver any real solutions aside of making us all more aware, so you're just left feeling pretty helpless and sad in the end.
FINAL SAY: It's a lot tougher for kids than we may think.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: M
Running Time: 98 mins
This documentary is a must see for everyone, but essential viewing for anyone that works with children or has children of their own. It's thought provoking material about a problem that we as all too often turn a blind eye to.
This year over 13 million kids will be bullied at school, online, on the bus, at home, on their phones and in the streets of their towns. BULLY is the first feature length documentary to show how we have all been affected by bullying, whether we've been victims, perpetrators or silent witnesses.
This documentary really highlights all of the problems out there; but unfortunately doesn't deliver any real solutions aside of making us all more aware, so you're just left feeling pretty helpless and sad in the end.
FINAL SAY: It's a lot tougher for kids than we may think.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE DIVIDE
Release Date: 2011
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 112 mins
After an apocalyptic event, a group of nine strangers find themselves stranded in a bunker-like basement in New York city. As the supplies begin to dwindle, the desperation and despair increases, and soon they begin to turn on each other.
Directed by French filmmaker Xavier Gens, The Divide was unfairly slammed by critics. I completely disagree with the bad wrap that this film received, I found it darkly disturbing in it's portrayal of the so called 'lucky' survivors, that are rapidly reduced to the desperate behaviours of filthy animals and disgraceful opportunists.
Milo Ventimiglia's descent from regular guy 'Josh' to that of a Lord of the Flies-style dark overlord was chilling, as was Michael Eklund's twisted portrayal of Bobby, a man whose sexual depravities and sordid ideas seem to have no limits. The darkness of the basement environment really adds to the overall claustrophobic feeling of the film and really compounds the idea of a man-made hell-hole.
This is quite a gritty watch, as all post-apocalyptic films are, but there are a lot of unpleasant events that take place in the bunker, that may be too much for some people to handle.
FINAL SAY: It's the end of the world, and you're stuck in a bunker with all of the douche-bags.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 112 mins
After an apocalyptic event, a group of nine strangers find themselves stranded in a bunker-like basement in New York city. As the supplies begin to dwindle, the desperation and despair increases, and soon they begin to turn on each other.
Directed by French filmmaker Xavier Gens, The Divide was unfairly slammed by critics. I completely disagree with the bad wrap that this film received, I found it darkly disturbing in it's portrayal of the so called 'lucky' survivors, that are rapidly reduced to the desperate behaviours of filthy animals and disgraceful opportunists.
Milo Ventimiglia's descent from regular guy 'Josh' to that of a Lord of the Flies-style dark overlord was chilling, as was Michael Eklund's twisted portrayal of Bobby, a man whose sexual depravities and sordid ideas seem to have no limits. The darkness of the basement environment really adds to the overall claustrophobic feeling of the film and really compounds the idea of a man-made hell-hole.
This is quite a gritty watch, as all post-apocalyptic films are, but there are a lot of unpleasant events that take place in the bunker, that may be too much for some people to handle.
FINAL SAY: It's the end of the world, and you're stuck in a bunker with all of the douche-bags.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
SHAME
Release Date: 2011
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 101 mins
Michael Fassbender brilliantly portrays a sex addict with a relentless appetite and a fastidious lifestyle that acts as the perfect veil for his sickness. His damaged sister (Carey Mulligan) turns up to stay for an unknown length of time and it throws his entire life into turmoil as he has to deal with the realities of who he is and the black clouds of the past all at one once.
It's a dark and brilliantly acted movie that will keep you riveted and also revolted; heavy stuff.
FINAL SAY: Shame, shame I know your name!
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 101 mins
Michael Fassbender brilliantly portrays a sex addict with a relentless appetite and a fastidious lifestyle that acts as the perfect veil for his sickness. His damaged sister (Carey Mulligan) turns up to stay for an unknown length of time and it throws his entire life into turmoil as he has to deal with the realities of who he is and the black clouds of the past all at one once.
It's a dark and brilliantly acted movie that will keep you riveted and also revolted; heavy stuff.
FINAL SAY: Shame, shame I know your name!
4.5 Chilli Peppers
SNOWTOWN
Release Date: 2011
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 119 mins
Also known as The Snowtown Murders, this Australian film directed by Justin Kurzel, is based on the true story of the Snowtown murders that occurred in South Australia between August 1992 and May 1999.
16 year old Jamie lives an impoverished urban life with no future prospects. His mother starts dating a charismatic and influential man named John, that takes Jamie under his wing and grooms him to assist with his murderous plans. Between them, they kill eight people in total, and store their remains in barrels in an unused bank vault in Snowtown; a murder spree that is still considered to be one of most grizzly series of homicides in Australian history.
This is bleak and brutal viewing, presented in a gritty and realistic way, and it is certainly a difficult movie to get through. Daniel Henshall is tremendously frightening as John Bunting and Lucas Pittaway is reminiscent of a young Heath Ledger, delivering a powerful and deeply upsetting performance of a desperate and confused teenager. Prepare to be unsettled, this is not something to you would want to watch after a heavy day.
FINAL SAY: When are you gonna grow some balls, mate?
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 119 mins
Also known as The Snowtown Murders, this Australian film directed by Justin Kurzel, is based on the true story of the Snowtown murders that occurred in South Australia between August 1992 and May 1999.
16 year old Jamie lives an impoverished urban life with no future prospects. His mother starts dating a charismatic and influential man named John, that takes Jamie under his wing and grooms him to assist with his murderous plans. Between them, they kill eight people in total, and store their remains in barrels in an unused bank vault in Snowtown; a murder spree that is still considered to be one of most grizzly series of homicides in Australian history.
This is bleak and brutal viewing, presented in a gritty and realistic way, and it is certainly a difficult movie to get through. Daniel Henshall is tremendously frightening as John Bunting and Lucas Pittaway is reminiscent of a young Heath Ledger, delivering a powerful and deeply upsetting performance of a desperate and confused teenager. Prepare to be unsettled, this is not something to you would want to watch after a heavy day.
FINAL SAY: When are you gonna grow some balls, mate?
3 Chilli Peppers
INTO THE ABYSS
Release Date: 2011
Rating: M
Running Time: 107 mins
A real life crime documentary that is brimming with insight and moral conundrum. Skillfully and thoughtfully directed by Werner Herzog, the film explores the outcomes and consequences of a triple homicide that occurred in Conroe, Texas in 2001.
The story is centred on the lives of the two young men that were convicted of the brutal murders. Michael Perry is on Death Row, only eight days short of his execution when Herzog interviews him, and his accomplice Jason Burkett is serving a forty year sentence. The boys murdered their victims simply because they wanted to drive their red Camaro.
Through a series of interviews and in-depth conversations with the perpetrators, the police, the key witnesses, the families of the victims and even the death row executioners and priests, we get a startlingly honest account of the impact that these types of senseless crimes have on communities, and the ripple effects that are felt long after the fact.
Herzog has stated that he is against the death penalty, but he does not present his material in a biased or compromised fashion. He doesn't sensationalize or express his opinions here, he merely opens the doors of conversation through his factual, calm and understanding questioning, in an attempt to get the heart of the real issue: Why do people kill? And is the taking of another life a remedy for killing?
Although there a few glimmers of hope to be had along the way, for the most part this is a sad and deeply affecting story that will leave you thinking about its content and the lives of the people that were directly involved with what occurred.
FINAL SAY: How are you going to live your dash?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2011
Rating: M
Running Time: 107 mins
A real life crime documentary that is brimming with insight and moral conundrum. Skillfully and thoughtfully directed by Werner Herzog, the film explores the outcomes and consequences of a triple homicide that occurred in Conroe, Texas in 2001.
The story is centred on the lives of the two young men that were convicted of the brutal murders. Michael Perry is on Death Row, only eight days short of his execution when Herzog interviews him, and his accomplice Jason Burkett is serving a forty year sentence. The boys murdered their victims simply because they wanted to drive their red Camaro.
Through a series of interviews and in-depth conversations with the perpetrators, the police, the key witnesses, the families of the victims and even the death row executioners and priests, we get a startlingly honest account of the impact that these types of senseless crimes have on communities, and the ripple effects that are felt long after the fact.
Herzog has stated that he is against the death penalty, but he does not present his material in a biased or compromised fashion. He doesn't sensationalize or express his opinions here, he merely opens the doors of conversation through his factual, calm and understanding questioning, in an attempt to get the heart of the real issue: Why do people kill? And is the taking of another life a remedy for killing?
Although there a few glimmers of hope to be had along the way, for the most part this is a sad and deeply affecting story that will leave you thinking about its content and the lives of the people that were directly involved with what occurred.
FINAL SAY: How are you going to live your dash?
4 Chilli Peppers
ANIMAL KINGDOM
Release Date: 2010
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 113 mins
A gritty Australian crime drama inspired by the real life Pettingill family of Melbourne, Australia; who in 1991 saw the acquittal of brothers Victor Pierce and Trevor Pettingill and two other accomplices, in the 1981 murder of two Victorian police officers. After premiering at the 26th Sundance Film Festival in 2010, Animal Kingdom went on to win 36 awards, including an Academy Award for Jacki Weaver for Best Supporting Actress.
Janine "Smurf" Cody (Weaver) is the matriarch of a Melbourne crime family, she takes in her grandson "J"after his mother dies from a heroin overdose and he soon joins ranks with the other criminal minds in her family, which includes "Baz" (Joel Edgerton) a specialist in arm robbery, Craig (Sullivan Stapleton) a drug dealer, Darren (Luke Ford) the follower and "Pope" (Ben Mendelsohn) who is currently in hiding from the police. Things go from bad to worse rapidly, as family alliances are tested and characters lose all sense of moral ground.
This film was so creepy, it really unnerved me, especially Jacki Weaver's portrayal of the most manipulative mother to grace the screen "Smurf." I also struggled greatly with Ben Mendelsohn's character "Pope" who was so unpredictable and volatile that I was afraid for everyone that went near him. The acting here is superb, and the tension is on high, but the thing that really stuck with me the most about this film was the fact that it was based on real events and a real family, which makes it just terrifying.
FINAL SAY: It's a crazy fucking world.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2010
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 113 mins
A gritty Australian crime drama inspired by the real life Pettingill family of Melbourne, Australia; who in 1991 saw the acquittal of brothers Victor Pierce and Trevor Pettingill and two other accomplices, in the 1981 murder of two Victorian police officers. After premiering at the 26th Sundance Film Festival in 2010, Animal Kingdom went on to win 36 awards, including an Academy Award for Jacki Weaver for Best Supporting Actress.
Janine "Smurf" Cody (Weaver) is the matriarch of a Melbourne crime family, she takes in her grandson "J"after his mother dies from a heroin overdose and he soon joins ranks with the other criminal minds in her family, which includes "Baz" (Joel Edgerton) a specialist in arm robbery, Craig (Sullivan Stapleton) a drug dealer, Darren (Luke Ford) the follower and "Pope" (Ben Mendelsohn) who is currently in hiding from the police. Things go from bad to worse rapidly, as family alliances are tested and characters lose all sense of moral ground.
This film was so creepy, it really unnerved me, especially Jacki Weaver's portrayal of the most manipulative mother to grace the screen "Smurf." I also struggled greatly with Ben Mendelsohn's character "Pope" who was so unpredictable and volatile that I was afraid for everyone that went near him. The acting here is superb, and the tension is on high, but the thing that really stuck with me the most about this film was the fact that it was based on real events and a real family, which makes it just terrifying.
FINAL SAY: It's a crazy fucking world.
4 Chilli Peppers
KIDNAPPED
Release Date: 2010
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 85 mins
This movie would easily be the most disturbing home invasion film that I have ever seen. Directed by Miguel Angel Vivas, this Spanish thriller is a graphic and violent watch, that is clearly intending to stun and shock it's audience. Apparently there is a dubbed version of this floating around, but from what I have heard, it is just awful, so if you are going to take this one on, watch the subtitled version.
A wealthy man, his wife and teenage daughter have just moved into a luxurious and grand new home. Unbeknownst to them, their movers are actually staking out their home and return later on that evening to hold the family hostage. Their intention is to hold the mother and daughter for ransom, in an attempt to force the father to drain all of his accounts. However, some of the thieves are more haphazard than others, and things get very messy.
When I say messy, I mean very messy. There is a lot of graphic and brutal violence going on in this film, the blood flows thick and fast, and there is even a rape scene to add further insult to injury. But what this film does have going for it, is that it is believable. Most of the shots are long, and have been taken using hand-held cameras, the events play out in real time and the overall effect is claustrophobic and terrifying. It is not one for the faint-hearted that's for sure, and if you have ever had nightmares about a hostile home invasion, then you should avoid this altogether, or you may never sleep again.
FINAL SAY: Ruthlessly brutal home invasion.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2010
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 85 mins
This movie would easily be the most disturbing home invasion film that I have ever seen. Directed by Miguel Angel Vivas, this Spanish thriller is a graphic and violent watch, that is clearly intending to stun and shock it's audience. Apparently there is a dubbed version of this floating around, but from what I have heard, it is just awful, so if you are going to take this one on, watch the subtitled version.
A wealthy man, his wife and teenage daughter have just moved into a luxurious and grand new home. Unbeknownst to them, their movers are actually staking out their home and return later on that evening to hold the family hostage. Their intention is to hold the mother and daughter for ransom, in an attempt to force the father to drain all of his accounts. However, some of the thieves are more haphazard than others, and things get very messy.
When I say messy, I mean very messy. There is a lot of graphic and brutal violence going on in this film, the blood flows thick and fast, and there is even a rape scene to add further insult to injury. But what this film does have going for it, is that it is believable. Most of the shots are long, and have been taken using hand-held cameras, the events play out in real time and the overall effect is claustrophobic and terrifying. It is not one for the faint-hearted that's for sure, and if you have ever had nightmares about a hostile home invasion, then you should avoid this altogether, or you may never sleep again.
FINAL SAY: Ruthlessly brutal home invasion.
3 Chilli Peppers
EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP
Release Date: 2010
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 87 mins
A documentary film by street artist Banksy that tells the story of Thierry Guetta, a French immigrant with an obsession for street art and constantly filming his surroundings with a hand held camera. Through a series of interludes with modern underground street artists, Guetta manages to reinvent himself as 'Mr Brainwash' and launch one of the most successful and talked about art shows of modern time.
There was a great deal of controversy about how authentic this documentary was, but the whole 'possible hoax' idea really only added to it's overall popularity and interest.
The film contains footage of Banksy, Shepard Fairey, Invader and many of the most infamous graffiti artists at work, which is interesting in its own right without Guetta's input. Whether Guetta is really an artist or not remains to be seen, and in the ending montage Guetta insists that time will tell whether he is a real artist or not. Watch it for yourself and you be the judge.
FINAL SAY: I used to encourage everyone I knew to make art; I don't do that so much anymore.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2010
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 87 mins
A documentary film by street artist Banksy that tells the story of Thierry Guetta, a French immigrant with an obsession for street art and constantly filming his surroundings with a hand held camera. Through a series of interludes with modern underground street artists, Guetta manages to reinvent himself as 'Mr Brainwash' and launch one of the most successful and talked about art shows of modern time.
There was a great deal of controversy about how authentic this documentary was, but the whole 'possible hoax' idea really only added to it's overall popularity and interest.
The film contains footage of Banksy, Shepard Fairey, Invader and many of the most infamous graffiti artists at work, which is interesting in its own right without Guetta's input. Whether Guetta is really an artist or not remains to be seen, and in the ending montage Guetta insists that time will tell whether he is a real artist or not. Watch it for yourself and you be the judge.
FINAL SAY: I used to encourage everyone I knew to make art; I don't do that so much anymore.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE ROAD
Release Date: 2009
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 111 mins
Based on the Cormac McCarthy novel of the same name, this movie takes bleakness to new levels. In a post-apocalyptic landscape that has been decimated by an unspecified cataclysmic event, we follow a father and son as they travel across a barren landscape together heading towards the ocean.
The pair, united in despair and grief, spend their days scavenging for food and fighting to survive in a world filled with ash, devoid of living creature and vegetation and ravaged by cannibalistic humans. There is such a deep and dark desperation and emotionally shattering starkness to this film that you will just feel utterly exhausted after you've watched it.
Viggo Mortensen is just stellar as the ailing father, and Kodi Smit-McPhee is darling as the dependent son trying to make sense of a senseless world. Get your tissue box at the ready before you view this one.
FINAL SAY: Harrowing from start to end.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2009
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 111 mins
Based on the Cormac McCarthy novel of the same name, this movie takes bleakness to new levels. In a post-apocalyptic landscape that has been decimated by an unspecified cataclysmic event, we follow a father and son as they travel across a barren landscape together heading towards the ocean.
The pair, united in despair and grief, spend their days scavenging for food and fighting to survive in a world filled with ash, devoid of living creature and vegetation and ravaged by cannibalistic humans. There is such a deep and dark desperation and emotionally shattering starkness to this film that you will just feel utterly exhausted after you've watched it.
Viggo Mortensen is just stellar as the ailing father, and Kodi Smit-McPhee is darling as the dependent son trying to make sense of a senseless world. Get your tissue box at the ready before you view this one.
FINAL SAY: Harrowing from start to end.
4 Chilli Peppers
ANTICHRIST
Release Date: 2009
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 108 mins
After their son dies in an accident whilst the couple are having sex, the two characters, simply called 'He and She', fall into a deep grief. 'She' cannot move on with her grief and seeks medical help, but her husband, a therapist, insists on dealing with her trauma himself. The two retreat to an abandon holiday cabin in the woods called Eden, where the husband sets upon on a series of psychotherapy experiments, with terrible outcomes.
Although this movie has been called an experimental horror, I would say that it is more horrific than horror. Director and writer Lars von Trier did draw inspiration from horror, but he also drew inspiration from a documentary that he saw about European forests, where these places of romance and peace were portrayed as places of great suffering and pain as the different species tried to kill and eat each other.
The story plays out in a series of six chapters, a prologue, four chapters (Grief, Pain, Despair and The Three Beggars) and an epilogue. As the movie progresses, the characters spiral further down into their own hell and succumb to a series of increasingly violent and sadomasochist acts. Antichrist is also speckled with disturbing hallucinations and visions of animals that appear to be possessed or unnatural, which adds another esoteric and creepy layer to the already hugely intensified script.
This is an uncomfortable film, it certainly isn't easy to watch people mutilating themselves and each other, and I really wouldn't recommended this film to people with a sensitive disposition. Some scenes are shockingly graphic, and the entire script is essentially an extremely dark composition of mental illness and despair, which is never going to appeal to the masses. But if you have the stomach for it, it is a movie that you will never forget.
FINAL SAY: Chaos reigns.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2009
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 108 mins
After their son dies in an accident whilst the couple are having sex, the two characters, simply called 'He and She', fall into a deep grief. 'She' cannot move on with her grief and seeks medical help, but her husband, a therapist, insists on dealing with her trauma himself. The two retreat to an abandon holiday cabin in the woods called Eden, where the husband sets upon on a series of psychotherapy experiments, with terrible outcomes.
Although this movie has been called an experimental horror, I would say that it is more horrific than horror. Director and writer Lars von Trier did draw inspiration from horror, but he also drew inspiration from a documentary that he saw about European forests, where these places of romance and peace were portrayed as places of great suffering and pain as the different species tried to kill and eat each other.
The story plays out in a series of six chapters, a prologue, four chapters (Grief, Pain, Despair and The Three Beggars) and an epilogue. As the movie progresses, the characters spiral further down into their own hell and succumb to a series of increasingly violent and sadomasochist acts. Antichrist is also speckled with disturbing hallucinations and visions of animals that appear to be possessed or unnatural, which adds another esoteric and creepy layer to the already hugely intensified script.
This is an uncomfortable film, it certainly isn't easy to watch people mutilating themselves and each other, and I really wouldn't recommended this film to people with a sensitive disposition. Some scenes are shockingly graphic, and the entire script is essentially an extremely dark composition of mental illness and despair, which is never going to appeal to the masses. But if you have the stomach for it, it is a movie that you will never forget.
FINAL SAY: Chaos reigns.
3 Chilli Peppers
ENTER THE VOID
Release Date: 2009
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 161 mins
Another challenging offering from director Gaspar Noe, who he himself dubbed the film a "psychedelic melodrama."And indeed, it is very psychedelic with out-of-body experiences and seedy interludes at every turn.
Set in Tokyo's nasty underbelly, we see life through the eyes of Oscar, a drug addict and his sister Linda, a stripper. By engaging in out-of-body interludes and childhood flashbacks, we get a sense of Oscar's drug fueled hallucinations and a glimpse at a possible afterlife.
This is an unusually shot piece of cinema, with intense bright colours and unique camera angles, adding to the overall strangeness of the movie. Don't expect an easy ride out of this, it is a Gaspar Noe film, so you won't be comfortable. There is actually a lot to not like going on during this almost three hour onslaught, but there is also something hypnotically spectacular playing out here as well, which is why I put it on my lists.
FINAL SAY: We promised to never leave each other.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2009
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 161 mins
Another challenging offering from director Gaspar Noe, who he himself dubbed the film a "psychedelic melodrama."And indeed, it is very psychedelic with out-of-body experiences and seedy interludes at every turn.
Set in Tokyo's nasty underbelly, we see life through the eyes of Oscar, a drug addict and his sister Linda, a stripper. By engaging in out-of-body interludes and childhood flashbacks, we get a sense of Oscar's drug fueled hallucinations and a glimpse at a possible afterlife.
This is an unusually shot piece of cinema, with intense bright colours and unique camera angles, adding to the overall strangeness of the movie. Don't expect an easy ride out of this, it is a Gaspar Noe film, so you won't be comfortable. There is actually a lot to not like going on during this almost three hour onslaught, but there is also something hypnotically spectacular playing out here as well, which is why I put it on my lists.
FINAL SAY: We promised to never leave each other.
3 Chilli Peppers
FISHTANK
Release Date: 2009
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 123 mins
This British drama, written and directed by Andrea Arnold won the Jury Prize at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival and also the BAFTA for Best British Film, and so many people still haven't seen it. Perhaps it is the gritty realness of the movie that people can't handle, but I thought that Fishtank was way up there when it comes to challenging, lower class chaos stories.
Mia is a socially isolated and volatile fifteen year old, living with her party-girl mother and younger sister Tyler, Mia's only passion is her break-dancing obsession. When her mother starts to date Connor, the handsome opportunist, Mia finds herself entangled in a very adult world, with only her teenage intellect and emotions to support her.
A tightly wound and awkwardly honest movie, Fishtank is harrowing in it's depiction of neglect and abuse. Michael Fassbender is exceptionally good as the conniving character Connor, and Katie Jarvis is a powerhouse as Mia. Apparently Jarvis was actually discovered by Arnold when she was spotted at a train station arguing with her boyfriend, Jarvis really does come from a housing estate like the one in Fishtank and she conceived her first child at only 16, so it is not surprising that there is such a raw and realistic nature to her performance.
FINAL SAY: You need sortin' out, you do.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2009
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 123 mins
This British drama, written and directed by Andrea Arnold won the Jury Prize at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival and also the BAFTA for Best British Film, and so many people still haven't seen it. Perhaps it is the gritty realness of the movie that people can't handle, but I thought that Fishtank was way up there when it comes to challenging, lower class chaos stories.
Mia is a socially isolated and volatile fifteen year old, living with her party-girl mother and younger sister Tyler, Mia's only passion is her break-dancing obsession. When her mother starts to date Connor, the handsome opportunist, Mia finds herself entangled in a very adult world, with only her teenage intellect and emotions to support her.
A tightly wound and awkwardly honest movie, Fishtank is harrowing in it's depiction of neglect and abuse. Michael Fassbender is exceptionally good as the conniving character Connor, and Katie Jarvis is a powerhouse as Mia. Apparently Jarvis was actually discovered by Arnold when she was spotted at a train station arguing with her boyfriend, Jarvis really does come from a housing estate like the one in Fishtank and she conceived her first child at only 16, so it is not surprising that there is such a raw and realistic nature to her performance.
FINAL SAY: You need sortin' out, you do.
4 Chilli Peppers
DOGTOOTH
Release Date: 2009
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 94 mins
Here's a movie that is set to slap you down and steal your lunch. Based around the lives of three adolescents being raised by their incredibly screwed up parents that feed their children on bullshit in order to keep them under their control, completely subservient and submissive.
The poor trio are forced to listen to homemade recordings about what the outside world is like, leaving them in a state of constant terror. No-one can leave the confines of the household estate until their dogtooth (canine tooth) falls out, which is clearly an impossibility....or is it?
Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, this Greek film was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 83rd Academy Awards and has been messing with people's heads ever since; I guarantee that you won't forget this one in a hurry.
FINAL SAY: Rough going all the way.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2009
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 94 mins
Here's a movie that is set to slap you down and steal your lunch. Based around the lives of three adolescents being raised by their incredibly screwed up parents that feed their children on bullshit in order to keep them under their control, completely subservient and submissive.
The poor trio are forced to listen to homemade recordings about what the outside world is like, leaving them in a state of constant terror. No-one can leave the confines of the household estate until their dogtooth (canine tooth) falls out, which is clearly an impossibility....or is it?
Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, this Greek film was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 83rd Academy Awards and has been messing with people's heads ever since; I guarantee that you won't forget this one in a hurry.
FINAL SAY: Rough going all the way.
4 Chilli Peppers
SAMSON AND DELILAH
Release Date: 2009
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 97 mins
Filmed in and around Alice Spring, Australia; this is the most harrowing love story of all time. Forget Romeo and Juliet, Samson and Delilah takes tragedy to new and disturbing levels as we watch a young indigenous couple go through hell together as they endeavour to escape their difficult lives in the outback. Directed by Warwick Thornton, Samson and Delilah won the Camera d'Or (Golden Camera Award) for Best First Feature Film at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival.
Two fourteen year old indigenous Australians are having a rough time in their hometown. They steal a car and try to escape to the city for a better life, but find only further heartbreak and despair.
This movie is tough going. Rife with drug addiction, rape and horrific discrimination, this film made me feel guilty to be a white Australian, and certainly gave me a lot more insight into the lives of young indigenous people in central Australia. The two main actors (Rowan McNamara and Marissa Gibson) both make their onscreen debut here and do a convincing and brilliant job of their roles. There is hardly any dialogue to be found, and what little there is, is mainly spoken in indigenous dialect, but this film rises well above any language barriers and speaks volumes about the terrible state of things for these poor exploited and beaten down people. Every Australian needs to see this film.
FINAL SAY: Is there a place for us?
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2009
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 97 mins
Filmed in and around Alice Spring, Australia; this is the most harrowing love story of all time. Forget Romeo and Juliet, Samson and Delilah takes tragedy to new and disturbing levels as we watch a young indigenous couple go through hell together as they endeavour to escape their difficult lives in the outback. Directed by Warwick Thornton, Samson and Delilah won the Camera d'Or (Golden Camera Award) for Best First Feature Film at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival.
Two fourteen year old indigenous Australians are having a rough time in their hometown. They steal a car and try to escape to the city for a better life, but find only further heartbreak and despair.
This movie is tough going. Rife with drug addiction, rape and horrific discrimination, this film made me feel guilty to be a white Australian, and certainly gave me a lot more insight into the lives of young indigenous people in central Australia. The two main actors (Rowan McNamara and Marissa Gibson) both make their onscreen debut here and do a convincing and brilliant job of their roles. There is hardly any dialogue to be found, and what little there is, is mainly spoken in indigenous dialect, but this film rises well above any language barriers and speaks volumes about the terrible state of things for these poor exploited and beaten down people. Every Australian needs to see this film.
FINAL SAY: Is there a place for us?
4 Chilli Peppers
HUNGER
Release Date: 2008
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 96 mins
Directed by Steve McQueen, this historical film documents the events surrounding the 1981 Irish hunger strike that occurred when Republican prisoners tried to regain their political status after it was revoked by the British Government in 1976. Hunger premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2008 where it received the prestigious Camera d'Or award.
Through a disturbing recount of Bobby Sands (Michael Fassbender) time at the Maze Prison, we get a first hand look at the appalling conditions that these men endured to stand up for what they believed in. Following the 'blanket' and 'no wash' protest, the prisoners step up their demands for recognition as political prisoners by staging a hunger strike; Bobby Sands was the first of those men to die of starvation after 66 days without food.
Hunger is truly gritty viewing, the treatment of the prisoners is unbelievably awful and the constant torment will take a toll on many viewers. Fassbender committed heart and soul to the role of Sands, allowing himself to waste away in front of the camera, which is so heartbreakingly difficult to watch. Tough going all the way, but a story worth hearing.
FINAL SAY: I have my belief, and in all its simplicity that is the most powerful thing.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2008
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 96 mins
Directed by Steve McQueen, this historical film documents the events surrounding the 1981 Irish hunger strike that occurred when Republican prisoners tried to regain their political status after it was revoked by the British Government in 1976. Hunger premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2008 where it received the prestigious Camera d'Or award.
Through a disturbing recount of Bobby Sands (Michael Fassbender) time at the Maze Prison, we get a first hand look at the appalling conditions that these men endured to stand up for what they believed in. Following the 'blanket' and 'no wash' protest, the prisoners step up their demands for recognition as political prisoners by staging a hunger strike; Bobby Sands was the first of those men to die of starvation after 66 days without food.
Hunger is truly gritty viewing, the treatment of the prisoners is unbelievably awful and the constant torment will take a toll on many viewers. Fassbender committed heart and soul to the role of Sands, allowing himself to waste away in front of the camera, which is so heartbreakingly difficult to watch. Tough going all the way, but a story worth hearing.
FINAL SAY: I have my belief, and in all its simplicity that is the most powerful thing.
4 Chilli Peppers
BLINDNESS
Release Date: 2008
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 121 mins
Unfairly smacked down by critics, this adaptation of the novel of the same name by Jose Saramago, gives us a gritty look at how the world may work if everyone was just suddenly stricken with blindness. Heavyweights like Julianne Moore, Mark Ruffalo and Gael Garcia Bernal certainly help to bolster this rather grim tale that comes on hard with it's bleak depiction of a world in crisis.
A widespread epidemic of inexplicable and sudden blindness known as the "white sickness" leaves an unspecified city in utter turmoil. Fear and panic takes over, and the city decides to quarantine the infected in an attempt to contain the virus. Before long, the quarantine becomes over-run and under-resourced, leading to immoral and irrational behaviours. One woman, that still has her sight in a completely blind world, attempts to help some of the people around her.
Blindness almost felt like a study of social degradation to me, I wanted to believe that the behaviours that I was seeing were highly unlikely in those circumstances, but in truth I couldn't, which is why I found it to be such a rough ride. There is also quite a lot of violence and even rape in this film, so at times it can be confronting and uncomfortable to watch.
FINAL SAY: The only thing more terrifying than blindness is being the only one who can see.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2008
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 121 mins
Unfairly smacked down by critics, this adaptation of the novel of the same name by Jose Saramago, gives us a gritty look at how the world may work if everyone was just suddenly stricken with blindness. Heavyweights like Julianne Moore, Mark Ruffalo and Gael Garcia Bernal certainly help to bolster this rather grim tale that comes on hard with it's bleak depiction of a world in crisis.
A widespread epidemic of inexplicable and sudden blindness known as the "white sickness" leaves an unspecified city in utter turmoil. Fear and panic takes over, and the city decides to quarantine the infected in an attempt to contain the virus. Before long, the quarantine becomes over-run and under-resourced, leading to immoral and irrational behaviours. One woman, that still has her sight in a completely blind world, attempts to help some of the people around her.
Blindness almost felt like a study of social degradation to me, I wanted to believe that the behaviours that I was seeing were highly unlikely in those circumstances, but in truth I couldn't, which is why I found it to be such a rough ride. There is also quite a lot of violence and even rape in this film, so at times it can be confronting and uncomfortable to watch.
FINAL SAY: The only thing more terrifying than blindness is being the only one who can see.
3 Chilli Peppers
DEAR ZACHARY: A LETTER TO A SON ABOUT HIS FATHER
Release Date: 2008
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 95 mins
This documentary is so completely harrowing and yet also incredibly inspiring. I was either crying like a baby from shock and horror or weeping with admiration and a restored faith in humanity throughout most of the movie, needless to say, have your box of tissues at the ready before you watch this and prepare to feel emotionally exhausted when it ends.
After Andrew Bagby is murdered under suspicious circumstances, everyone is shocked to learn that the main suspect, his former girlfriend, is now expecting his baby. One of Andrew's close friends, Kurt Kuenne, begins to create a documentary about Andrew's life, so that his soon-to-be-born son will understand just how much Andrew had meant to so many people.
As the documentary progresses, there are many unexpected twists and turns that occur along the way, making this a compelling, upsetting and challenging watch with a tale that defies reality and human endurance.
The full documentary can be found on YouTube and viewed for free.
FINAL SAY: I'll go back in time and stop you from dying.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2008
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 95 mins
This documentary is so completely harrowing and yet also incredibly inspiring. I was either crying like a baby from shock and horror or weeping with admiration and a restored faith in humanity throughout most of the movie, needless to say, have your box of tissues at the ready before you watch this and prepare to feel emotionally exhausted when it ends.
After Andrew Bagby is murdered under suspicious circumstances, everyone is shocked to learn that the main suspect, his former girlfriend, is now expecting his baby. One of Andrew's close friends, Kurt Kuenne, begins to create a documentary about Andrew's life, so that his soon-to-be-born son will understand just how much Andrew had meant to so many people.
As the documentary progresses, there are many unexpected twists and turns that occur along the way, making this a compelling, upsetting and challenging watch with a tale that defies reality and human endurance.
The full documentary can be found on YouTube and viewed for free.
FINAL SAY: I'll go back in time and stop you from dying.
4 Chilli Peppers
EDEN LAKE
Release Date: 2008
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 91 mins
This grimly affecting British shocker gave me a bit of post traumatic 'viewing' stress, if there is such a thing. I found myself thinking about the story for days after I watched it; digesting all of the events that occurred during the movie's short duration and feeling really unsettled by all that I had just witnessed; in short - this is not a nice movie.
A couple head out of the city for a romantic and relaxing camping trip to an abandoned quarry known as Eden Lake. Their serenity is quickly destroyed by a group of delinquent teenagers.
Things in this film escalate quickly, and they don't let up, not for one minute. This is unflinchingly ruthless cinema that never seems to cross the line into the unbelievable, which is probably why it is so relentlessly upsetting and affecting after the fact.
Disturbing but not erring on the side of gore porn, this film provokes genuine after-thought and will probably put couples off camping in remote areas for years to come.
FINAL SAY: Follow the blood!
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2008
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 91 mins
This grimly affecting British shocker gave me a bit of post traumatic 'viewing' stress, if there is such a thing. I found myself thinking about the story for days after I watched it; digesting all of the events that occurred during the movie's short duration and feeling really unsettled by all that I had just witnessed; in short - this is not a nice movie.
A couple head out of the city for a romantic and relaxing camping trip to an abandoned quarry known as Eden Lake. Their serenity is quickly destroyed by a group of delinquent teenagers.
Things in this film escalate quickly, and they don't let up, not for one minute. This is unflinchingly ruthless cinema that never seems to cross the line into the unbelievable, which is probably why it is so relentlessly upsetting and affecting after the fact.
Disturbing but not erring on the side of gore porn, this film provokes genuine after-thought and will probably put couples off camping in remote areas for years to come.
FINAL SAY: Follow the blood!
3 Chilli Peppers
THE POUGHKEEPSIE TAPES
Release Date: 2007
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 81 mins
A gritty American mockumentary film, written and directed by John Erick Dowdle that will leave you with an unsettled feeling well after the credits have rolled. I was riveted and sickened by this movie, which plays out with such an authentic and realistic tone that it was easy to see why so many people believed that this was an actual documentary about an unknown serial killer. In truth, Dowdle has admitted that the character of the Poughkeepsie tape killer is not real, but was based on a composition of actual serial killers, abductors and rapists, which certainly makes for some shocking viewing.
New York murder investigators uncover a cache of hundreds of tapes in the abandoned house of a unknown serial killer. The tapes contain footage of the killer's deranged and disturbing acts of cruelty that he inflicted upon his many victims, which investigators immediately begin to trawl through in attempt to discover his identity. In doing so, they uncover the full extent of the horrors that this vicious and disturbed faceless killer orchestrated.
This is a creepy, brutal and unnerving viewing. The footage on the tapes is grim to say the least, and the sense of impending dread and doom made me feel physically sick at some points. I did go and lock my back door after I watched this movie, it's definitely a film that is going to leave a mark on you, and at the very least make you more cautious about seemingly 'well meaning' strangers in the future.
FINAL SAY: Your name is....slave. What is your name?
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2007
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 81 mins
A gritty American mockumentary film, written and directed by John Erick Dowdle that will leave you with an unsettled feeling well after the credits have rolled. I was riveted and sickened by this movie, which plays out with such an authentic and realistic tone that it was easy to see why so many people believed that this was an actual documentary about an unknown serial killer. In truth, Dowdle has admitted that the character of the Poughkeepsie tape killer is not real, but was based on a composition of actual serial killers, abductors and rapists, which certainly makes for some shocking viewing.
New York murder investigators uncover a cache of hundreds of tapes in the abandoned house of a unknown serial killer. The tapes contain footage of the killer's deranged and disturbing acts of cruelty that he inflicted upon his many victims, which investigators immediately begin to trawl through in attempt to discover his identity. In doing so, they uncover the full extent of the horrors that this vicious and disturbed faceless killer orchestrated.
This is a creepy, brutal and unnerving viewing. The footage on the tapes is grim to say the least, and the sense of impending dread and doom made me feel physically sick at some points. I did go and lock my back door after I watched this movie, it's definitely a film that is going to leave a mark on you, and at the very least make you more cautious about seemingly 'well meaning' strangers in the future.
FINAL SAY: Your name is....slave. What is your name?
3 Chilli Peppers
SICKO
Release Date: 2007
Rating: PG
Running Time: 123 mins
Sicko is another hard hitting Michael Moore documentary that investigates the health care industry in the United States with a focus on private health insurance and the pharmaceutical industry. Made on a budget of $9 million dollars and grossing $24.5 million in the U.S. alone, Sicko became the must see documentary of 2007 and received a 17 minute standing ovation when it premiered at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival.
With a ranking of only 37 out of 131 for their health care system, it is clear that the U.S. is doing something wrong for a first world country. With almost 50 million Americans uninsured and much of the remainder victims to health care fraud and ridiculous red tape, it is hardly surprising to find that the truly sick and hopeless are not getting the medical attention or medications that they require, because they simply cannot afford it.
By comparing the U.S. system with the not-for-profit based health care systems in Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Cuba we get a first hand look at the changes that America would need to adopt to if they are ever going to fix their dreadful health care problems.
As usual Michael Moore does little to bolster the already marred reputation of America when it comes to the way that they treat their own residents, making me glad that I don't live there and feeling dreadful for the poor unhealthy people that are having to work a second job just to pay for their medications and operations. Thought provoking and also terribly sad, Sicko really lifts the lid on what could be considered one of the most inhumane ways to make money - through the sick and the injured.
FINAL SAY: An educated, healthy and confident nation is harder to govern.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2007
Rating: PG
Running Time: 123 mins
Sicko is another hard hitting Michael Moore documentary that investigates the health care industry in the United States with a focus on private health insurance and the pharmaceutical industry. Made on a budget of $9 million dollars and grossing $24.5 million in the U.S. alone, Sicko became the must see documentary of 2007 and received a 17 minute standing ovation when it premiered at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival.
With a ranking of only 37 out of 131 for their health care system, it is clear that the U.S. is doing something wrong for a first world country. With almost 50 million Americans uninsured and much of the remainder victims to health care fraud and ridiculous red tape, it is hardly surprising to find that the truly sick and hopeless are not getting the medical attention or medications that they require, because they simply cannot afford it.
By comparing the U.S. system with the not-for-profit based health care systems in Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Cuba we get a first hand look at the changes that America would need to adopt to if they are ever going to fix their dreadful health care problems.
As usual Michael Moore does little to bolster the already marred reputation of America when it comes to the way that they treat their own residents, making me glad that I don't live there and feeling dreadful for the poor unhealthy people that are having to work a second job just to pay for their medications and operations. Thought provoking and also terribly sad, Sicko really lifts the lid on what could be considered one of the most inhumane ways to make money - through the sick and the injured.
FINAL SAY: An educated, healthy and confident nation is harder to govern.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
FUNNY GAMES
Release Date: 2007
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 111 mins
Michael Haneke's english language remake of Funny Games is anything but funny. Having seen the original German version as well, I can tell you that there is very little difference and either version will have the same disturbing effect on its viewers.
A family are enjoying a holiday by the lake, only to be held hostage by a couple of young, white glove wearing and highly articulate psychopathic men. These sadistic serial killers are on a torture rampage of the entire neighbourhood and there seems to be no limits to their levels of sickness.
Naomi Watts delivers a realistic depiction of a terrified mother and Tim Roth is strong as the over compliant father figure. However, it is Michael Pitt that steals the limelight and launches his career with his demented portrayal of Paul. This is not the sort of movie you want to watch before you pack up the family and head to some quiet retreat for a break. Sick and twisted behaviours indeed.
FINAL SAY: So very unfunny.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2007
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 111 mins
Michael Haneke's english language remake of Funny Games is anything but funny. Having seen the original German version as well, I can tell you that there is very little difference and either version will have the same disturbing effect on its viewers.
A family are enjoying a holiday by the lake, only to be held hostage by a couple of young, white glove wearing and highly articulate psychopathic men. These sadistic serial killers are on a torture rampage of the entire neighbourhood and there seems to be no limits to their levels of sickness.
Naomi Watts delivers a realistic depiction of a terrified mother and Tim Roth is strong as the over compliant father figure. However, it is Michael Pitt that steals the limelight and launches his career with his demented portrayal of Paul. This is not the sort of movie you want to watch before you pack up the family and head to some quiet retreat for a break. Sick and twisted behaviours indeed.
FINAL SAY: So very unfunny.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND
Release Date: 2006
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 121 mins
Based on Giles Foden's novel of the same name, The Last King of Scotland tells the fictional story of Nicholas Garrigan, a Scottish doctor who travels to Uganda in the 1970's and becomes the personal physician of president Idi Amin. The film is based on the events of Amin's rule, and Forest Whitaker won the Best Actor Oscar for his outstanding performance of the real life megalomaniac dictator.
Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy) is a Scottish doctor that becomes entangled with one of the world's most barbaric figure heads: Idi Amin. Impressed by Garrigan, Idi makes him his personal physician and confidante, which at first seems like an impressive and flattering title. However, it is not long before Garrigan becomes aware of Idi's savagery and he attempts to remove himself from Idi's company and Uganda.
I was really horrified by this movie, and although it is steeped in fiction, it is based on actual events that occurred during Amin's reign of terror, and it is tremendously unsettling. Forest Whitaker is frighteningly good as Amin, his smiling menace is certainly unnerving; and McAvoy is fabulous along side of him. There are some pretty gruesome scenes to endure throughout, and I know that the film had a disturbing effect on me, so it's probably not for the faint hearted.
FINAL SAY: Your work is not finished here yet.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2006
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 121 mins
Based on Giles Foden's novel of the same name, The Last King of Scotland tells the fictional story of Nicholas Garrigan, a Scottish doctor who travels to Uganda in the 1970's and becomes the personal physician of president Idi Amin. The film is based on the events of Amin's rule, and Forest Whitaker won the Best Actor Oscar for his outstanding performance of the real life megalomaniac dictator.
Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy) is a Scottish doctor that becomes entangled with one of the world's most barbaric figure heads: Idi Amin. Impressed by Garrigan, Idi makes him his personal physician and confidante, which at first seems like an impressive and flattering title. However, it is not long before Garrigan becomes aware of Idi's savagery and he attempts to remove himself from Idi's company and Uganda.
I was really horrified by this movie, and although it is steeped in fiction, it is based on actual events that occurred during Amin's reign of terror, and it is tremendously unsettling. Forest Whitaker is frighteningly good as Amin, his smiling menace is certainly unnerving; and McAvoy is fabulous along side of him. There are some pretty gruesome scenes to endure throughout, and I know that the film had a disturbing effect on me, so it's probably not for the faint hearted.
FINAL SAY: Your work is not finished here yet.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH
Release Date: 2006
Rating: PG
Running Time: 96 mins
A documentary based on former United States Vice President Al Gore's campaign to educate citizens about the realities of global warming. After premiering at the Sundance Film Festival, the documentary became a huge success and even won two Academy Awards, one for Best Documentary Feature.
With our planet's grim future cast into the light through a series of disturbing slides and statistics, An Inconvenient Truth seeks to educate and inform about the effects of Global warming on a universal level. By seeing the negative impact that we have orchestrated ourselves, we get a first hand look at the terrible state that we have left the world in, and it is bleak to say the least. The documentary has since been credited with raising international awareness and re-energising the environmental movement.
This documentary really is rife with depressing and inconvenient truths, but they are truths that everyone should be aware of. An unpleasant but absolutely essential viewing for the good of our planet's future.
FINAL SAY: Awareness is key.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Note: An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power was released in 2017 and follows up a decade on from An Inconvenient Truth. It is just as relevant, important and worthy of watching as the first instalment and should also not be missed.
Release Date: 2006
Rating: PG
Running Time: 96 mins
A documentary based on former United States Vice President Al Gore's campaign to educate citizens about the realities of global warming. After premiering at the Sundance Film Festival, the documentary became a huge success and even won two Academy Awards, one for Best Documentary Feature.
With our planet's grim future cast into the light through a series of disturbing slides and statistics, An Inconvenient Truth seeks to educate and inform about the effects of Global warming on a universal level. By seeing the negative impact that we have orchestrated ourselves, we get a first hand look at the terrible state that we have left the world in, and it is bleak to say the least. The documentary has since been credited with raising international awareness and re-energising the environmental movement.
This documentary really is rife with depressing and inconvenient truths, but they are truths that everyone should be aware of. An unpleasant but absolutely essential viewing for the good of our planet's future.
FINAL SAY: Awareness is key.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Note: An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power was released in 2017 and follows up a decade on from An Inconvenient Truth. It is just as relevant, important and worthy of watching as the first instalment and should also not be missed.
LITTLE FISH
Release Date: 2005
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 113 mins
A gritty Australian drama directed by Rowan Woods and written Jacquelin Perske, Little Fish gets under your skin with its incredibly believable cast whom deliver all of the downtrodden characters and events with staggering affect.
Tracy is trying to get on with her life. She's been clean for four years and runs the local video store. However when her ex-boyfriend returns and the man that she lives with Lionel, begin to rely on her for drug related activities, her sobriety soon becomes tested.
As I said earlier, it is the intense performances that make this film so good; it is a riveting, albeit unnerving and upsetting watch. Hugo Weaving and Cate Blanchett are totally stripped back and delivering with raw intensity here and they are very well supported by Sam Neill, Noni Hazlehurst, Dustin Nguyen and Martin Henderson.
It's a hard going watch, and although there are many covers of the Cold Chisel classic tune Flame Trees speckled throughout the movie, have your tissues on hand for both Sarah Blasko's version and the one sung by The Scared Heart School Choir, very stirring stuff.
FINAL SAY: The past is right here. It's right here.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2005
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 113 mins
A gritty Australian drama directed by Rowan Woods and written Jacquelin Perske, Little Fish gets under your skin with its incredibly believable cast whom deliver all of the downtrodden characters and events with staggering affect.
Tracy is trying to get on with her life. She's been clean for four years and runs the local video store. However when her ex-boyfriend returns and the man that she lives with Lionel, begin to rely on her for drug related activities, her sobriety soon becomes tested.
As I said earlier, it is the intense performances that make this film so good; it is a riveting, albeit unnerving and upsetting watch. Hugo Weaving and Cate Blanchett are totally stripped back and delivering with raw intensity here and they are very well supported by Sam Neill, Noni Hazlehurst, Dustin Nguyen and Martin Henderson.
It's a hard going watch, and although there are many covers of the Cold Chisel classic tune Flame Trees speckled throughout the movie, have your tissues on hand for both Sarah Blasko's version and the one sung by The Scared Heart School Choir, very stirring stuff.
FINAL SAY: The past is right here. It's right here.
3 Chilli Peppers
GRIZZLY MAN
Release Date: 2005
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 103 mins
A documentary film from German director Werner Herzog that chronicles the life and death of bear enthusiast Timothy Treadwell. The documentary features some of Treadwell's own footage of his encounters with grizzly bears as well as interviews with people that knew him and of his involvement with the bears.
Timothy Treadwell spent 13 summers in Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska, developing what he believed to be a relationship built on trust with the wild grizzly bears of that area. Despite several warnings from park officials, Treadwell and his girlfriend Amie Huguenard take up residence with the bears for an unusually lengthy stay in 2003, which leads to their horrific death by bear attack.
Herzog used sequences in the movie that he extracted from over 100 hours of footage of Treadwell with the bears to showcase the relationship that he had with them. The movie is put together with all points of view considered, making it a thoughtful and interesting watch. As an outsider, it seemed glaringly obvious that Treadwell's decision to stay until October, when the bears were in pre-hibernation mode and extremely aggressive about the ways in which they find food, was going to be a bad choice for him and his girlfriend, but it is always easier to see things when you are standing on the outside.
FINAL SAY: I will die for these animals.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2005
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 103 mins
A documentary film from German director Werner Herzog that chronicles the life and death of bear enthusiast Timothy Treadwell. The documentary features some of Treadwell's own footage of his encounters with grizzly bears as well as interviews with people that knew him and of his involvement with the bears.
Timothy Treadwell spent 13 summers in Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska, developing what he believed to be a relationship built on trust with the wild grizzly bears of that area. Despite several warnings from park officials, Treadwell and his girlfriend Amie Huguenard take up residence with the bears for an unusually lengthy stay in 2003, which leads to their horrific death by bear attack.
Herzog used sequences in the movie that he extracted from over 100 hours of footage of Treadwell with the bears to showcase the relationship that he had with them. The movie is put together with all points of view considered, making it a thoughtful and interesting watch. As an outsider, it seemed glaringly obvious that Treadwell's decision to stay until October, when the bears were in pre-hibernation mode and extremely aggressive about the ways in which they find food, was going to be a bad choice for him and his girlfriend, but it is always easier to see things when you are standing on the outside.
FINAL SAY: I will die for these animals.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
HARD CANDY
Release Date: 2005
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 104 mins
A break out first film for director David Slade, and some very controversial material to sink your teeth into.
Hard Candy tells the story of a 14 year old named Hayley (Ellen Page), a girl whose maturity certainly betrays her age. She agrees to meet thirty-something photographer Jeff (Patrick Wilson) after befriending him in an online chat room. Jeff is clearly a child predator that trawls chat rooms for potential prey, but when he brings Hayley back to his apartment to close in for the kill, he soon realises that his victim has other things in mind.
An extremely engrossing watch and some excellent acting from Page and Wilson; but be warned, the content is dark, the tension is rife and most of the horrors are left to your imagination - which for some people can be even more disturbing.
FINAL SAY: Your conversational skills are really deteriorating as the day goes on.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2005
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 104 mins
A break out first film for director David Slade, and some very controversial material to sink your teeth into.
Hard Candy tells the story of a 14 year old named Hayley (Ellen Page), a girl whose maturity certainly betrays her age. She agrees to meet thirty-something photographer Jeff (Patrick Wilson) after befriending him in an online chat room. Jeff is clearly a child predator that trawls chat rooms for potential prey, but when he brings Hayley back to his apartment to close in for the kill, he soon realises that his victim has other things in mind.
An extremely engrossing watch and some excellent acting from Page and Wilson; but be warned, the content is dark, the tension is rife and most of the horrors are left to your imagination - which for some people can be even more disturbing.
FINAL SAY: Your conversational skills are really deteriorating as the day goes on.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
MYSTERIOUS SKIN
Release Date: 2004
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 105 mins
I still get chills when I think about this film, I found myself a bit shell shocked after watching it because it is such a thought provoking and bold movie about child abuse. This is definitely not one for the squeamish, it is really hard going and deeply confronting, but it loudly voices the ongoing damage that pedophiles leave upon their victims, which we rarely focus upon as a society, so it is definitely a worthy, albeit difficult, viewing.
Two pre-adolescent boys that were sexually abused by their baseball coach are still feeling the repercussions in their young adult lives. One boy has become a reckless and sexually promiscuous prostitute, and the other has retreated into a fantasy world where he believes that he was abducted by aliens.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bradly Corbet are just incredible in this, giving intense and harrowing depth to their severely damaged characters. Mysterious Skin is a movie that will stay with you long after after the credits have rolled, if you can get that far.
FINAL SAY: Rise like two angels into the night and magically....disappear.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 105 mins
I still get chills when I think about this film, I found myself a bit shell shocked after watching it because it is such a thought provoking and bold movie about child abuse. This is definitely not one for the squeamish, it is really hard going and deeply confronting, but it loudly voices the ongoing damage that pedophiles leave upon their victims, which we rarely focus upon as a society, so it is definitely a worthy, albeit difficult, viewing.
Two pre-adolescent boys that were sexually abused by their baseball coach are still feeling the repercussions in their young adult lives. One boy has become a reckless and sexually promiscuous prostitute, and the other has retreated into a fantasy world where he believes that he was abducted by aliens.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bradly Corbet are just incredible in this, giving intense and harrowing depth to their severely damaged characters. Mysterious Skin is a movie that will stay with you long after after the credits have rolled, if you can get that far.
FINAL SAY: Rise like two angels into the night and magically....disappear.
4 Chilli Peppers
JOHN SAFRAN VS GOD
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 200 mins
I have always been a huge John Safran fan, and even though I know that this documentary is more of a TV series than a movie, I think that it is well worth hunting down and seeing on DVD, so I am making an exception. I myself have always been fascinated with the cultures, traditions and religions that are practiced around the world, and Safran takes us on a tour of those very things in this eight part series.
Safran, an Australian Jewish man, delves into well known and more esoteric practises in his pursuit to find God, or at least the meaning of God. His tongue in cheek style of 'travelogue' journalism takes him around the globe on various odd, and sometimes disturbing adventures, as he engages all manner of devout religious followers.
This style of documentary is not going to appeal to everyone's sensitivities, especially since Safran is quite insensitive as he tries to add humour to everything that he does, but it is truly riveting to watch. Make sure that you watch the extras on the DVD version to get the full story behind the final episode when John himself undergoes an exorcism, intriguing stuff!
FINAL SAY: Until next time, go to hell.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 200 mins
I have always been a huge John Safran fan, and even though I know that this documentary is more of a TV series than a movie, I think that it is well worth hunting down and seeing on DVD, so I am making an exception. I myself have always been fascinated with the cultures, traditions and religions that are practiced around the world, and Safran takes us on a tour of those very things in this eight part series.
Safran, an Australian Jewish man, delves into well known and more esoteric practises in his pursuit to find God, or at least the meaning of God. His tongue in cheek style of 'travelogue' journalism takes him around the globe on various odd, and sometimes disturbing adventures, as he engages all manner of devout religious followers.
This style of documentary is not going to appeal to everyone's sensitivities, especially since Safran is quite insensitive as he tries to add humour to everything that he does, but it is truly riveting to watch. Make sure that you watch the extras on the DVD version to get the full story behind the final episode when John himself undergoes an exorcism, intriguing stuff!
FINAL SAY: Until next time, go to hell.
4 Chilli Peppers
BIRTH
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 100 mins
Directed by Jonathon Glazer, better known for Sexy Beast and more recently, Under the Skin. This movie generated a lot of controversy since it involves a 'love interest' relationship between an adult woman and a 10 year boy. I did not see this film as exploitative at all, although I can see why some people may see certain scenes as potentially salacious, however, I don't believe that was the directors intent.
10 years after the sudden death of her beloved husband, Anna (Nicole Kidman) is ready to move on and re-marry. At her engagement party, she encounters an unusual 10 year old boy who claims to be the reincarnation of her husband and warns her not to re-marry. The boy has extraordinary knowledge about her dead husband and Anna starts to believe that he may be telling the truth.
This film delves deeply into the incredible bonds that we have with certain people in our lives, and how we are willing to entertain any idea that will return them to us after they have gone. The premise is controversial, but the story is played out tastefully, and even you will begin to believe that Anna's husband is really back again.
This is a dark and at times distressing movie, there are lots of feelings to be wrestled with, and a lot of unanswered questions to contemplate after the credits have rolled. Not an easy watch, but a really worthy one.
FINAL SAY: How do you know what you know?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 100 mins
Directed by Jonathon Glazer, better known for Sexy Beast and more recently, Under the Skin. This movie generated a lot of controversy since it involves a 'love interest' relationship between an adult woman and a 10 year boy. I did not see this film as exploitative at all, although I can see why some people may see certain scenes as potentially salacious, however, I don't believe that was the directors intent.
10 years after the sudden death of her beloved husband, Anna (Nicole Kidman) is ready to move on and re-marry. At her engagement party, she encounters an unusual 10 year old boy who claims to be the reincarnation of her husband and warns her not to re-marry. The boy has extraordinary knowledge about her dead husband and Anna starts to believe that he may be telling the truth.
This film delves deeply into the incredible bonds that we have with certain people in our lives, and how we are willing to entertain any idea that will return them to us after they have gone. The premise is controversial, but the story is played out tastefully, and even you will begin to believe that Anna's husband is really back again.
This is a dark and at times distressing movie, there are lots of feelings to be wrestled with, and a lot of unanswered questions to contemplate after the credits have rolled. Not an easy watch, but a really worthy one.
FINAL SAY: How do you know what you know?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
SUPER SIZE ME
Release Date: 2004
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
Here's a way to get yourself sworn off McDonald's for the rest of your life. This controversial documentary records a month of solid junk food eating for Morgan Spurlock as he personally puts his health on the line to demonstrate the pitfalls of eating from fast food outlets.
Clearly this is an extreme way of getting across an anti fast food message, but it is riveting watching nonetheless. There is nothing truly scientific going on here, we all know that if you eat nothing but McDonald's for a month you're going to feel like crap. But Morgan's month is closely monitored by a dietitian, a practitioner, a gastroenterologist and a cardiologist, which makes the rapid demise of his health all the more prevalent and alarming.
This documentary will leave you feeling sick to your stomach and trust me when I say that you won't be going to the drive-through window for a while after seeing it.
FINAL SAY: No, I don't want fries with that!
3 Chilli Peppers
Note: Super Size Me 2: Holy Chicken! (2017) sees Morgan Spurlock opening his own fast food chicken restaurant in an attempt to explore whether fast food is actually as healthy as it now claims to be. What he discovers is not only an exploitation of the consumers belief in what they are eating, but also an exploitation of chickens and the farmers that raise them for the fast food industry. I actually enjoyed this instalment more than the first Super Size Me and found it overall a lot more alarming as well. It's a solid 3.5 Chilli Peppers documentary.
Release Date: 2004
Rating: M
Running Time: 100 mins
Here's a way to get yourself sworn off McDonald's for the rest of your life. This controversial documentary records a month of solid junk food eating for Morgan Spurlock as he personally puts his health on the line to demonstrate the pitfalls of eating from fast food outlets.
Clearly this is an extreme way of getting across an anti fast food message, but it is riveting watching nonetheless. There is nothing truly scientific going on here, we all know that if you eat nothing but McDonald's for a month you're going to feel like crap. But Morgan's month is closely monitored by a dietitian, a practitioner, a gastroenterologist and a cardiologist, which makes the rapid demise of his health all the more prevalent and alarming.
This documentary will leave you feeling sick to your stomach and trust me when I say that you won't be going to the drive-through window for a while after seeing it.
FINAL SAY: No, I don't want fries with that!
3 Chilli Peppers
Note: Super Size Me 2: Holy Chicken! (2017) sees Morgan Spurlock opening his own fast food chicken restaurant in an attempt to explore whether fast food is actually as healthy as it now claims to be. What he discovers is not only an exploitation of the consumers belief in what they are eating, but also an exploitation of chickens and the farmers that raise them for the fast food industry. I actually enjoyed this instalment more than the first Super Size Me and found it overall a lot more alarming as well. It's a solid 3.5 Chilli Peppers documentary.
BORN INTO BROTHELS
Release Date: 2004
Rating: M
Running Time: 85 mins
Hopeful and heartbreaking all at once, Born into Brothels is a must see documentary about the children of prostitutes in Sonagachi, Kolkata's red light district. Winner of the 2004 Academy Award for Best Documentary, this movie has gone onto great acclaim and notoriety, the ripples of which are still causing effect today.
A documentary photographer named Briski moves into an Indian red light district in order to properly photograph and understand the prostitutes of the area. She befriend the women's children and teaches them about photography composition and then arms them with cameras of their own. What the children capture is both haunting and beautiful, and together they strive to raise enough money and interest to improve their very difficult lives.
Since the making of Born into Brothels, Briski has started a non-profit organization to continue to improve the lives of underprivileged children in India and also other countries around the world, named Kids with Cameras.
The children in this documentary are absolutely remarkable with their cheeky and resilient dispositions, they really are the heart and soul of this incredible story. It is films like this that really bring the hidden problems of the world out into the light, and that is why they are so very important indeed.
FINAL SAY: There is nothing called hope in my future.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: M
Running Time: 85 mins
Hopeful and heartbreaking all at once, Born into Brothels is a must see documentary about the children of prostitutes in Sonagachi, Kolkata's red light district. Winner of the 2004 Academy Award for Best Documentary, this movie has gone onto great acclaim and notoriety, the ripples of which are still causing effect today.
A documentary photographer named Briski moves into an Indian red light district in order to properly photograph and understand the prostitutes of the area. She befriend the women's children and teaches them about photography composition and then arms them with cameras of their own. What the children capture is both haunting and beautiful, and together they strive to raise enough money and interest to improve their very difficult lives.
Since the making of Born into Brothels, Briski has started a non-profit organization to continue to improve the lives of underprivileged children in India and also other countries around the world, named Kids with Cameras.
The children in this documentary are absolutely remarkable with their cheeky and resilient dispositions, they really are the heart and soul of this incredible story. It is films like this that really bring the hidden problems of the world out into the light, and that is why they are so very important indeed.
FINAL SAY: There is nothing called hope in my future.
4 Chilli Peppers
WHAT THE #$*! DO WE (K)NOW!?
Release Date: 2004
Rating: M
Running Time: 109 mins
A documentary style film that combines interviews, computer generated graphics and an ongoing narrative to discuss the possibility of a spiritual connection between quantum physics and consciousness. Directed and funded by William Arntz, with the assistance of fellow Ramtha's School of Enlightenment students Betsy Chasse and Mark Vicente, this low-budget independent movie was criticized for misrepresenting science and containing pseudoscience. It has been described as a case of 'quantum mysticism', however, many of the interviewees and subjects are professional scientists in the field of physics, chemistry and engineering, so it is certainly not without merit.
The story follows a photographer as she encounters emotional and existential hurdles in her life. These experience build the foundations upon which all of the discussion regarding quantum physics and consciousness are developed.
Truth or theory? Who cares, I loved this film, it got my brain buzzing! I was riveted and also perplexed by some of the science that was being thrown at me, and whether you think it's a load of malarkey or not is really up to you, but it is definitely worth a look so that you can decide for yourself.
FINAL SAY: Ponder that for a while.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2004
Rating: M
Running Time: 109 mins
A documentary style film that combines interviews, computer generated graphics and an ongoing narrative to discuss the possibility of a spiritual connection between quantum physics and consciousness. Directed and funded by William Arntz, with the assistance of fellow Ramtha's School of Enlightenment students Betsy Chasse and Mark Vicente, this low-budget independent movie was criticized for misrepresenting science and containing pseudoscience. It has been described as a case of 'quantum mysticism', however, many of the interviewees and subjects are professional scientists in the field of physics, chemistry and engineering, so it is certainly not without merit.
The story follows a photographer as she encounters emotional and existential hurdles in her life. These experience build the foundations upon which all of the discussion regarding quantum physics and consciousness are developed.
Truth or theory? Who cares, I loved this film, it got my brain buzzing! I was riveted and also perplexed by some of the science that was being thrown at me, and whether you think it's a load of malarkey or not is really up to you, but it is definitely worth a look so that you can decide for yourself.
FINAL SAY: Ponder that for a while.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
TOUCHING THE VOID
Release Date: 2003
Rating: M
Running Time: 106 mins
Based on the book of the same name by Joe Simpson, Touching the Void outlines Simpson and Yates disastrous attempt to climb Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes in 1985. Listed by the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) as one of the greatest documentaries of all time, and winner of The Best British Film Award at the BAFTAs in 2004, Touching the Void has become a must see documentary for it's incredible depiction of human endurance and determination.
In the mid 1980's two climbers attempt a treacherous and dangerous climb to the summit of Siula Grande in Peru, a feat that had previously never been achieve by anyone. After reaching the summit, things go from bad to worse as the men find themselves having to make life and death choices in a fight for survival.
This is a truly awe-inspiring semi-documentary film, director Kevin MacDonald has done a fabulous job of retelling this unbelievable tale that will have you shifting in your chair and biting your nails down to the stubs with concern. The conditions are beyond belief, at times breathtakingly beautiful and moments later terrifying; but it is the incredible story of friendship and the human spirit that will stick with you the most.
FINAL SAY: Bloody hell....I'm gonna die to Boney M.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2003
Rating: M
Running Time: 106 mins
Based on the book of the same name by Joe Simpson, Touching the Void outlines Simpson and Yates disastrous attempt to climb Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes in 1985. Listed by the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) as one of the greatest documentaries of all time, and winner of The Best British Film Award at the BAFTAs in 2004, Touching the Void has become a must see documentary for it's incredible depiction of human endurance and determination.
In the mid 1980's two climbers attempt a treacherous and dangerous climb to the summit of Siula Grande in Peru, a feat that had previously never been achieve by anyone. After reaching the summit, things go from bad to worse as the men find themselves having to make life and death choices in a fight for survival.
This is a truly awe-inspiring semi-documentary film, director Kevin MacDonald has done a fabulous job of retelling this unbelievable tale that will have you shifting in your chair and biting your nails down to the stubs with concern. The conditions are beyond belief, at times breathtakingly beautiful and moments later terrifying; but it is the incredible story of friendship and the human spirit that will stick with you the most.
FINAL SAY: Bloody hell....I'm gonna die to Boney M.
4 Chilli Peppers
21 GRAMS
Release Date: 2003
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 124 mins
The second instalment in Alejandro González Iñárritu Trilogy of Death, which was preceeded by Amores Perros and followed by Babel, both of which also appear on my review lists. 21 Grams interweaves several plot lines and does not run in linear order, the three main characters all have past, present and future stories running throughout, which viewers may find difficult to follow, but this film is worth the effort.
The story revolves around the lives of three people that are affected by a tragic automobile accident. A terminally ill mathematician (Sean Penn), a grief stricken mother (Naomi Watts) and a born-again christian and ex-con (Benicio del Toro).
Just like all of the movies in the Trilogy of Death, there is a sense of many people being affected by one terrible event, making us consider the ripple effects that our actions have on a larger scale. This is a stylish drama, with some of the most haunting acting that I have ever seen, I didn't just cry once during this movie, I cried a number of times because the performances were so stirring and story line so deeply touching. I recall feeling exhausted at the end of this movie, it's a tough one for sure.
FINAL SAY: They say we all lose 21 grams....who will be next?
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2003
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 124 mins
The second instalment in Alejandro González Iñárritu Trilogy of Death, which was preceeded by Amores Perros and followed by Babel, both of which also appear on my review lists. 21 Grams interweaves several plot lines and does not run in linear order, the three main characters all have past, present and future stories running throughout, which viewers may find difficult to follow, but this film is worth the effort.
The story revolves around the lives of three people that are affected by a tragic automobile accident. A terminally ill mathematician (Sean Penn), a grief stricken mother (Naomi Watts) and a born-again christian and ex-con (Benicio del Toro).
Just like all of the movies in the Trilogy of Death, there is a sense of many people being affected by one terrible event, making us consider the ripple effects that our actions have on a larger scale. This is a stylish drama, with some of the most haunting acting that I have ever seen, I didn't just cry once during this movie, I cried a number of times because the performances were so stirring and story line so deeply touching. I recall feeling exhausted at the end of this movie, it's a tough one for sure.
FINAL SAY: They say we all lose 21 grams....who will be next?
4.5 Chilli Peppers
OLDBOY (OLDEUBOI)
Release Date: 2003
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
This gritty South Korean tale comes to us from director Chan-Wook Park. In recent years the film was remade in an English version, but this original subtitled version will always be my favourite of the two.
An average guy finds himself abducted and held prisoner in a room for 15 long years, without any explanation or understanding of why this happened, and never meeting his capture. He then becomes even more confused when he is just released one day, given clothing and set out into the streets a free man. What happens from this point, well I don't want to spoil anything, but things get mighty freaky.
This an ultra-violent movie with an intriguing story line that will gross out a lot of viewers, but if you're up to the challenge, it's a worthy view.
FINAL SAY: Slap down ending.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2003
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
This gritty South Korean tale comes to us from director Chan-Wook Park. In recent years the film was remade in an English version, but this original subtitled version will always be my favourite of the two.
An average guy finds himself abducted and held prisoner in a room for 15 long years, without any explanation or understanding of why this happened, and never meeting his capture. He then becomes even more confused when he is just released one day, given clothing and set out into the streets a free man. What happens from this point, well I don't want to spoil anything, but things get mighty freaky.
This an ultra-violent movie with an intriguing story line that will gross out a lot of viewers, but if you're up to the challenge, it's a worthy view.
FINAL SAY: Slap down ending.
4 Chilli Peppers
IRREVERSIBLE
Release Date: 2002
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 97 mins
Every now and again I watch a movie that has a profoundly disturbing affect on me, Irreversible definitely falls into that category. Be warned, this film is not for the fainthearted at all, it is incredibly graphic and completely revolting. Director Gaspar Noe pushes his viewers to new heights when it comes to discomfort levels, and all of his movies have left their mark on me, although this one left the most lasting impression.
Irreversible plays backwards, literally. You start at the end, even the credits roll at the beginning of the film. We watch the events of one traumatic evening in Paris unfold in reverse-chronological order; retelling the brutal rape and beating of the beautiful Alex and the actions of her revenge filled boyfriend Marcus; played by real life couple at that time, Monica Bellucci and Vincent Cassel.
The background noise in the first 30 minutes of this film runs with a hidden frequency of 28Hz which is almost inaudible. In humans it creates nausea and vertigo, which adds to the extremely unsettling effect of this movie. Three people actually fainted during its showing at the Cannes Film Festival in 2002, and it is still the most walked out of movie of all time.
Don't have a big dinner before you watch it, and don't expect an easy ride because this is really horrid stuff. Love it or hate it, you will never forget it.
FINAL SAY: Can't unsee that shit.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2002
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 97 mins
Every now and again I watch a movie that has a profoundly disturbing affect on me, Irreversible definitely falls into that category. Be warned, this film is not for the fainthearted at all, it is incredibly graphic and completely revolting. Director Gaspar Noe pushes his viewers to new heights when it comes to discomfort levels, and all of his movies have left their mark on me, although this one left the most lasting impression.
Irreversible plays backwards, literally. You start at the end, even the credits roll at the beginning of the film. We watch the events of one traumatic evening in Paris unfold in reverse-chronological order; retelling the brutal rape and beating of the beautiful Alex and the actions of her revenge filled boyfriend Marcus; played by real life couple at that time, Monica Bellucci and Vincent Cassel.
The background noise in the first 30 minutes of this film runs with a hidden frequency of 28Hz which is almost inaudible. In humans it creates nausea and vertigo, which adds to the extremely unsettling effect of this movie. Three people actually fainted during its showing at the Cannes Film Festival in 2002, and it is still the most walked out of movie of all time.
Don't have a big dinner before you watch it, and don't expect an easy ride because this is really horrid stuff. Love it or hate it, you will never forget it.
FINAL SAY: Can't unsee that shit.
4 Chilli Peppers
BOWLING FOR COLUMBINE
Release Date: 2002
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
After taking out the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, the Independent Spirit Award for Best Documentary Feature and a special 55th Anniversary prize at Cannes; Michael Moore, the writer, producer and director of Bowling for Columbine, soon became a household name for his ability to ruffle feathers and say the things that no-one else was willing to say about gun laws in the US. Some might say that this political documentary made Moore as unpopular as popular, there were lots of hate rumours circulating that accused Moore of trying to discredit his nation and hating America. Proving that if you are going to be controversial, you are going to make enemies, even when you're right.
Moore explores the circumstances that lead to the 1999 Columbine High School massacre and, more broadly, the proliferation of guns and the homicide rate in America. With his provocative interviewing style, he manages to get up in everyone's face about it, pissing off big names like Charlton Heston and interviewing popular and controversial performers like Marilyn Manson and Matt Stone about their thoughts, since guns have affected them personally.
This is a really well put together documentary. Moore has done his homework, he is willing to upset people and get doors slammed in his face to get his point across, and he has presented it all in an interesting and meaningful way. The world already knows that America is still in the dark ages with their gun laws, but it is good to see a local highlight that for us.
FINAL SAY: If more guns make people safer, then America would be one of the safest countries in the world.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2002
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 120 mins
After taking out the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, the Independent Spirit Award for Best Documentary Feature and a special 55th Anniversary prize at Cannes; Michael Moore, the writer, producer and director of Bowling for Columbine, soon became a household name for his ability to ruffle feathers and say the things that no-one else was willing to say about gun laws in the US. Some might say that this political documentary made Moore as unpopular as popular, there were lots of hate rumours circulating that accused Moore of trying to discredit his nation and hating America. Proving that if you are going to be controversial, you are going to make enemies, even when you're right.
Moore explores the circumstances that lead to the 1999 Columbine High School massacre and, more broadly, the proliferation of guns and the homicide rate in America. With his provocative interviewing style, he manages to get up in everyone's face about it, pissing off big names like Charlton Heston and interviewing popular and controversial performers like Marilyn Manson and Matt Stone about their thoughts, since guns have affected them personally.
This is a really well put together documentary. Moore has done his homework, he is willing to upset people and get doors slammed in his face to get his point across, and he has presented it all in an interesting and meaningful way. The world already knows that America is still in the dark ages with their gun laws, but it is good to see a local highlight that for us.
FINAL SAY: If more guns make people safer, then America would be one of the safest countries in the world.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
THE HOLE
Release Date: 2001
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 102 mins
Lock a few horny teens up in a hole for a 18 days with limited resources and let's see what happens. The Hole is no staggering feat of cinema by anyone's estimation, but it is a pretty horrid tale about the lengths that some teens will go to get what they want.
Based on the novel After the Hole by Guy Burt, we follow four teens as they venture into a sealed underground hole that appears to be some sort of old bomb shelter. A friend was supposed to return after the weekend to let them out, but when he fails to arrive, the stark reality that they are trapped starts to sink in. Close to three weeks later, a sole survivor is found, but what really happened in hole?
Keira Knightley makes her debut here, Thora Birch was fresh out of American Beauty and a young Desmond Harrington rounds out the bill. No accolades for anyone here, but it kept me watching and it has a couple of good twists too.
FINAL SAY: What could go wrong in a hole that's locked on the outside?
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2001
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 102 mins
Lock a few horny teens up in a hole for a 18 days with limited resources and let's see what happens. The Hole is no staggering feat of cinema by anyone's estimation, but it is a pretty horrid tale about the lengths that some teens will go to get what they want.
Based on the novel After the Hole by Guy Burt, we follow four teens as they venture into a sealed underground hole that appears to be some sort of old bomb shelter. A friend was supposed to return after the weekend to let them out, but when he fails to arrive, the stark reality that they are trapped starts to sink in. Close to three weeks later, a sole survivor is found, but what really happened in hole?
Keira Knightley makes her debut here, Thora Birch was fresh out of American Beauty and a young Desmond Harrington rounds out the bill. No accolades for anyone here, but it kept me watching and it has a couple of good twists too.
FINAL SAY: What could go wrong in a hole that's locked on the outside?
3 Chilli Peppers
AMORES PERROS (LOVE'S A BITCH)
Release Date: 2000
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 154 mins
A Mexican drama-thriller, directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu and written by Guillermo Arriaga, with three overlapping stories all taking place in Mexico City and clearly covering the three economic classes that exist within the city. Amores Perros won a BAFTA for Best Film Not in the English Language and also won the Critic's Week Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 2000.
A horrific car accident sees the worlds of three people, that would never have met otherwise, collide with drastic consequences. Octavio (Gael Garcia Bernal) is trying to raise money through dog fighting to run away with his sister-in-law, Valeria (Goya Toledo) is a successful model living a luxurious life and El Chivo (Emilio Echevarria) is a homeless man that cares for stray dogs. Their lives will be forever changed by this chance encounter.
All three character stories have dogs in them, highlighting the films theme of loyalty; but there is also a great deal of darkness to this film that demonstrates the 'dog eat dog' mentality of life in it's cruelest form. This is grimy and unpleasant cinema in many ways, but like the other two movies in González Iñárritu's "Trilogy of Death" series, (21 Grams and Babel) it is really more about the impact that single actions can have on the lives of others than anything else. No matter how you view it, Amores Perros is a fabulous and intense watch that shouldn't be missed.
FINAL SAY: It could be the last day of your life.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 154 mins
A Mexican drama-thriller, directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu and written by Guillermo Arriaga, with three overlapping stories all taking place in Mexico City and clearly covering the three economic classes that exist within the city. Amores Perros won a BAFTA for Best Film Not in the English Language and also won the Critic's Week Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 2000.
A horrific car accident sees the worlds of three people, that would never have met otherwise, collide with drastic consequences. Octavio (Gael Garcia Bernal) is trying to raise money through dog fighting to run away with his sister-in-law, Valeria (Goya Toledo) is a successful model living a luxurious life and El Chivo (Emilio Echevarria) is a homeless man that cares for stray dogs. Their lives will be forever changed by this chance encounter.
All three character stories have dogs in them, highlighting the films theme of loyalty; but there is also a great deal of darkness to this film that demonstrates the 'dog eat dog' mentality of life in it's cruelest form. This is grimy and unpleasant cinema in many ways, but like the other two movies in González Iñárritu's "Trilogy of Death" series, (21 Grams and Babel) it is really more about the impact that single actions can have on the lives of others than anything else. No matter how you view it, Amores Perros is a fabulous and intense watch that shouldn't be missed.
FINAL SAY: It could be the last day of your life.
4 Chilli Peppers
DANCER IN THE DARK
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 140 mins
This film really had a profound effect on me, I recall feeling physically exhausted when it ended. Directed by Lars von Trier, this Danish musical drama stars Bjork as the lead actress; showcasing her incredible talent since she was also given the responsibility for the movie's amazing soundtrack. Dancer in the Dark is the third film in Von Trier's 'Golden Heart Trilogy' and was met with standing ovations when it aired at the 2000 Cannes Film Festival and was also awarded the Palme d'Or.
Innocent and hard working Czech immigrant Selma is going blind. She has a genetic disorder that she has passed along to her son Gene, and she is saving all of her money from her low paying jobs to get him the operation that he will need to save his sight. Selma escapes the harsh realities of her life by losing herself in music, however when a desperate neighbour takes advantage of her and falsely accuses her of stealing, things take a dramatic and terrible turn for the worse.
Lars von Trier has a real knack for destroying things that are beautiful that is both hypnotic and disturbing, and with the movie being set in 1960's Washington State, it does feel like another Trier stab at those 'awful' American's.
All of that aside, this is still great movie making. It is not an easy watch, it's depressing in every way. The characters are mostly cruel and the outcome is just plain shocking. It is tough going but worth the effort.
FINAL SAY: In a musical, nothing dreadful ever happens.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 140 mins
This film really had a profound effect on me, I recall feeling physically exhausted when it ended. Directed by Lars von Trier, this Danish musical drama stars Bjork as the lead actress; showcasing her incredible talent since she was also given the responsibility for the movie's amazing soundtrack. Dancer in the Dark is the third film in Von Trier's 'Golden Heart Trilogy' and was met with standing ovations when it aired at the 2000 Cannes Film Festival and was also awarded the Palme d'Or.
Innocent and hard working Czech immigrant Selma is going blind. She has a genetic disorder that she has passed along to her son Gene, and she is saving all of her money from her low paying jobs to get him the operation that he will need to save his sight. Selma escapes the harsh realities of her life by losing herself in music, however when a desperate neighbour takes advantage of her and falsely accuses her of stealing, things take a dramatic and terrible turn for the worse.
Lars von Trier has a real knack for destroying things that are beautiful that is both hypnotic and disturbing, and with the movie being set in 1960's Washington State, it does feel like another Trier stab at those 'awful' American's.
All of that aside, this is still great movie making. It is not an easy watch, it's depressing in every way. The characters are mostly cruel and the outcome is just plain shocking. It is tough going but worth the effort.
FINAL SAY: In a musical, nothing dreadful ever happens.
4 Chilli Peppers
REQUIEM FOR A DREAM
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 101 mins
If this film doesn't put you off drugs for the rest of your life then nothing will. This is an intense and gritty psychological drama based on the novel of the same name by Hubert Selby Jr. Thoughtfully directed by Darren Aronofsky, this is a tale that depicts different forms of drug addiction in a deeply disturbing and haunting way.
Centred on the demise of four characters, we watch as they fall deeper into a stimulant induced psychosis that has them all imprisoned. Each one suffers from a variation of depression and hopelessness, lost in their own bleak and stark delusions.
The acting here is fabulous. Ellen Burstyn was nominated for a Best Actress Academy Award for her incredible portrayal of Sara Goldfarb, an elderly widow that will go to any lengths to regain her youthful figure. Jared Leto and Jennifer Connelly are fabulous as the heroin addicted lovers Harry and Marion; and even Marlon Wayans rises to the occasion as Tyrone C. Love, a youth trying to rise above his low-socio economic background.
Not everyone will have the stomach for this movie, it's a pretty rough ride and it has been a movie that has always sprung to my mind when people mention movies that disturbed them.
FINAL SAY: The ugliest portrayal of addiction.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 2000
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 101 mins
If this film doesn't put you off drugs for the rest of your life then nothing will. This is an intense and gritty psychological drama based on the novel of the same name by Hubert Selby Jr. Thoughtfully directed by Darren Aronofsky, this is a tale that depicts different forms of drug addiction in a deeply disturbing and haunting way.
Centred on the demise of four characters, we watch as they fall deeper into a stimulant induced psychosis that has them all imprisoned. Each one suffers from a variation of depression and hopelessness, lost in their own bleak and stark delusions.
The acting here is fabulous. Ellen Burstyn was nominated for a Best Actress Academy Award for her incredible portrayal of Sara Goldfarb, an elderly widow that will go to any lengths to regain her youthful figure. Jared Leto and Jennifer Connelly are fabulous as the heroin addicted lovers Harry and Marion; and even Marlon Wayans rises to the occasion as Tyrone C. Love, a youth trying to rise above his low-socio economic background.
Not everyone will have the stomach for this movie, it's a pretty rough ride and it has been a movie that has always sprung to my mind when people mention movies that disturbed them.
FINAL SAY: The ugliest portrayal of addiction.
4 Chilli Peppers
BOYS DON'T CRY
Release Date: 1999
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 118 mins
A dramatisation of the real life story of Brandon Teena, a young trans man that moves to Nebraska to reinvent himself, only to be beaten, raped and murdered by his male acquaintances when they discovered that he is really a woman.
Hilary Swank won an Oscar for Best Actress for her powerful portrayal of Teena, and Chloe Sevigny was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Lana, Brandon's beloved girlfriend. The acting in this film is amazing, but at the end of the day this is a gut wrenchingly sad and disturbing movie that will leave you feeling sick to your stomach that people can be so insanely cruel.
FINAL SAY: You will cry.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1999
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 118 mins
A dramatisation of the real life story of Brandon Teena, a young trans man that moves to Nebraska to reinvent himself, only to be beaten, raped and murdered by his male acquaintances when they discovered that he is really a woman.
Hilary Swank won an Oscar for Best Actress for her powerful portrayal of Teena, and Chloe Sevigny was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Lana, Brandon's beloved girlfriend. The acting in this film is amazing, but at the end of the day this is a gut wrenchingly sad and disturbing movie that will leave you feeling sick to your stomach that people can be so insanely cruel.
FINAL SAY: You will cry.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE BOYS
Release Date: 1998
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 86 mins
This Australian drama really chilled me to the bone. Maybe it was because it was an Australian story and therefore more relatable, but I do remember feeling quite sickened and grimly affected by this movie.
The story is centred on Brett Sprague, a violent criminal that returns to his home in the rough western suburbs of Sydney after a stint in jail. Brett works hard to re-establish himself as the 'top dog' in his home, sparking animosities and setting the wheels in motion for a most heinous crime.
David Wenham, Toni Collette, John Polson and Anthony Hayes all deliver performances that stirred the attentions of the Australian Film Institute and both Polson and Collette won AFI awards for their efforts.
The Boys was an underrated and generally overlooked film when it was released, but if you can handle watching terrible people doing horrid things then it is worth seeking this out, because it is a truly intense, unforgettable and compelling watch.
FINAL SAY: We're all Gods in our own world.
3.5 Chilli peppers
Release Date: 1998
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 86 mins
This Australian drama really chilled me to the bone. Maybe it was because it was an Australian story and therefore more relatable, but I do remember feeling quite sickened and grimly affected by this movie.
The story is centred on Brett Sprague, a violent criminal that returns to his home in the rough western suburbs of Sydney after a stint in jail. Brett works hard to re-establish himself as the 'top dog' in his home, sparking animosities and setting the wheels in motion for a most heinous crime.
David Wenham, Toni Collette, John Polson and Anthony Hayes all deliver performances that stirred the attentions of the Australian Film Institute and both Polson and Collette won AFI awards for their efforts.
The Boys was an underrated and generally overlooked film when it was released, but if you can handle watching terrible people doing horrid things then it is worth seeking this out, because it is a truly intense, unforgettable and compelling watch.
FINAL SAY: We're all Gods in our own world.
3.5 Chilli peppers
HAPPINESS
Release Date: 1998
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 134 mins
If you are looking for shiny happy people, then please don't look here! Written and directed by Todd Solondz, the story portrays the lives of three sisters and the people that surround them. Happiness was highly controversial for its use of heavy sexual themes, particularly its portrayal of pedophilia, and it is true, the depraved and immoral behaviours here will distress you, but the most distressing thing about this film is that's it is so sadly realistic.
Through three intertwining tales, we meet three sisters struggling with the realities of their lives. Trish, the eldest, is happily married to a psychiatrist and has three children, however unbeknownst to her, her husband also happens to be a rapist and a pedophile. The middle sister Helen, is a successful author who lives a charmed life, but still feels completely unloved and unfulfilled. And then there is Joy, the youngest and most directionless of the sisters, who takes a job at an immigrant-education centre and sparks up a relationship with one of her Russian students.
Does anyone get what they want in this movie? No, most definitely no. However, within the bizarre, stirring and pained places of unfulfillment there is a real clarity to be found here, and I cannot deny that even though I was shocked and horrified at times, I found this film intelligent and extremely interesting. One of the best fly on the wall movies that I have ever seen, just be prepared to feel uncomfortable.
FINAL SAY: I'm not laughing at you, I'm laughing with you.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1998
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 134 mins
If you are looking for shiny happy people, then please don't look here! Written and directed by Todd Solondz, the story portrays the lives of three sisters and the people that surround them. Happiness was highly controversial for its use of heavy sexual themes, particularly its portrayal of pedophilia, and it is true, the depraved and immoral behaviours here will distress you, but the most distressing thing about this film is that's it is so sadly realistic.
Through three intertwining tales, we meet three sisters struggling with the realities of their lives. Trish, the eldest, is happily married to a psychiatrist and has three children, however unbeknownst to her, her husband also happens to be a rapist and a pedophile. The middle sister Helen, is a successful author who lives a charmed life, but still feels completely unloved and unfulfilled. And then there is Joy, the youngest and most directionless of the sisters, who takes a job at an immigrant-education centre and sparks up a relationship with one of her Russian students.
Does anyone get what they want in this movie? No, most definitely no. However, within the bizarre, stirring and pained places of unfulfillment there is a real clarity to be found here, and I cannot deny that even though I was shocked and horrified at times, I found this film intelligent and extremely interesting. One of the best fly on the wall movies that I have ever seen, just be prepared to feel uncomfortable.
FINAL SAY: I'm not laughing at you, I'm laughing with you.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
AMERICAN HISTORY X
Release Date: 1998
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 119 mins
Nasty is a word that comes to mind when I think about this movie, there are some seriously nasty and unsettling things going on in this film. Essentially, American History X is setting out to explain how racism and hate is cultivated over generations and through environmental exposure, and it does this by demonstrating just how disturbing and vile those behaviours are.
Brutal Neo-Nazi Derek Vinyard (Edward Norton) returns home after serving a three year sentence for the horrific murders of two black men that tried to steal his truck. However, jail has changed Derek, and he now has a new outlook on life and the choices that he made in the past. Unfortunately, his younger brother Danny (Edward Furlong) is now caught up in the same racist propaganda that he was, and Derek becomes determined to stop him from going down the same bad path that he went down.
Edward Norton is absolutely amazing as Derek, ripped to unrecognizable proportions and so convincingly scary and full of rage that he earned himself an Oscar nomination for Best Actor in a Lead Role. Edward Furlong is equally good here, and together they make convincing siblings, both leaving their mark on a film that will undoubtedly leave a mark on you too.
FINAL SAY: The hideous face of racism.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1998
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 119 mins
Nasty is a word that comes to mind when I think about this movie, there are some seriously nasty and unsettling things going on in this film. Essentially, American History X is setting out to explain how racism and hate is cultivated over generations and through environmental exposure, and it does this by demonstrating just how disturbing and vile those behaviours are.
Brutal Neo-Nazi Derek Vinyard (Edward Norton) returns home after serving a three year sentence for the horrific murders of two black men that tried to steal his truck. However, jail has changed Derek, and he now has a new outlook on life and the choices that he made in the past. Unfortunately, his younger brother Danny (Edward Furlong) is now caught up in the same racist propaganda that he was, and Derek becomes determined to stop him from going down the same bad path that he went down.
Edward Norton is absolutely amazing as Derek, ripped to unrecognizable proportions and so convincingly scary and full of rage that he earned himself an Oscar nomination for Best Actor in a Lead Role. Edward Furlong is equally good here, and together they make convincing siblings, both leaving their mark on a film that will undoubtedly leave a mark on you too.
FINAL SAY: The hideous face of racism.
4 Chilli Peppers
GUMMO
Release Date: 1997
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 89 mins
Harmony Korine hits a high note in this portrayal of life in a tornado stricken town in Ohio. Bleak would be an understatement to describe the goings on; the locals appear to hopelessly wander their deserted landscape just trying to fulfill their boring existences.
Teenager Solomon and his friend Tummler have nothing but time to kill, so they fill their days with sniffing glue, killing cats and generally engaging in a series of unpleasant events that just amplifies the hopelessness of their lives.
This is real freak show of eccentric and generally filthy individuals which will leave you feeling unsettled from its depictions of depravity and squalor.
FINAL SAY: Life is great. Without it, you'd be dead.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1997
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 89 mins
Harmony Korine hits a high note in this portrayal of life in a tornado stricken town in Ohio. Bleak would be an understatement to describe the goings on; the locals appear to hopelessly wander their deserted landscape just trying to fulfill their boring existences.
Teenager Solomon and his friend Tummler have nothing but time to kill, so they fill their days with sniffing glue, killing cats and generally engaging in a series of unpleasant events that just amplifies the hopelessness of their lives.
This is real freak show of eccentric and generally filthy individuals which will leave you feeling unsettled from its depictions of depravity and squalor.
FINAL SAY: Life is great. Without it, you'd be dead.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
LOLITA
Release Date: 1997
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 137 mins
This is one of those very rare times that I actually preferred the remake to the original version. The original version was made in 1962 and was directed by Stanley Kubrick, but it was not nearly as faithful to the Vladimir Nabokov novel as this 1997 version directed by Adrian Lyne. This movie was shrouded with much controversy due it's heavy themes of pedophilia and sexual exploration at a young age, however in the melee of distaste, I think that a lot of people missed the point of the film, and the fact that the unlikable and unpleasant characters are eventually destroyed by their behaviours, which seems like a pretty moral outcome to me.
Humbert Humbert, (Jeremy Irons) a professor of French literature, takes up a teaching position in New Hampshire. He rents a room from a widow named Charlotte (Melanie Griffith) and becomes infatuated with her teenage daughter Dolores (Dominique Swain). Dolores forms a flirtatious relationship with Humbert, who he has nicknamed Lolita, playing up to his obvious desired for her. However, after Charlotte finds Humbert's diary and learns of his lecherous intentions with her daughter, things rapidly spin out of hand.
Jeremy Irons and Dominique Swain are tremendously good here, shining brightly amidst a very uncomfortable story line that has more than it's fair share of shady and unscrupulous characters. The 1940's Americana stylizing of the movie is second to none, and the era has been captured perfectly, from the costuming to the soundtrack, the visual appeal of Lolita is excellent, but you may not have the stomach for the perversity of the characters.
FINAL SAY: I would still go mad with tenderness at the mere sight of her face.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1997
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 137 mins
This is one of those very rare times that I actually preferred the remake to the original version. The original version was made in 1962 and was directed by Stanley Kubrick, but it was not nearly as faithful to the Vladimir Nabokov novel as this 1997 version directed by Adrian Lyne. This movie was shrouded with much controversy due it's heavy themes of pedophilia and sexual exploration at a young age, however in the melee of distaste, I think that a lot of people missed the point of the film, and the fact that the unlikable and unpleasant characters are eventually destroyed by their behaviours, which seems like a pretty moral outcome to me.
Humbert Humbert, (Jeremy Irons) a professor of French literature, takes up a teaching position in New Hampshire. He rents a room from a widow named Charlotte (Melanie Griffith) and becomes infatuated with her teenage daughter Dolores (Dominique Swain). Dolores forms a flirtatious relationship with Humbert, who he has nicknamed Lolita, playing up to his obvious desired for her. However, after Charlotte finds Humbert's diary and learns of his lecherous intentions with her daughter, things rapidly spin out of hand.
Jeremy Irons and Dominique Swain are tremendously good here, shining brightly amidst a very uncomfortable story line that has more than it's fair share of shady and unscrupulous characters. The 1940's Americana stylizing of the movie is second to none, and the era has been captured perfectly, from the costuming to the soundtrack, the visual appeal of Lolita is excellent, but you may not have the stomach for the perversity of the characters.
FINAL SAY: I would still go mad with tenderness at the mere sight of her face.
3 Chilli Peppers
BOOGIE NIGHTS
Release Date: 1997
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 155 mins
Written, produced and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, Boogie Nights chronicles the rise of an unknown through the Golden Age of Porn in the 1970's. The movie was made as an expansion to Anderson's mockumentary short film The Dirk Diggler Story, and won Burt Reynolds a Best Supporting Actor Golden Globe Award.
In 1977, Eddie Adams (Mark Wahlberg) who works as a dishwasher at the Resenda nightclub, is discovered by porn director Jack Horner (Burt Reynolds). Adams changes his name to Dirk Diggler and begins a successful career starring in action-themed porn movies. He begins to live the carefree lifestyle of a porn star during the 70's disco era, which involves lots of drugs and sex, but things get progressively messier and desperate as the money starts to run out.
Boogie Nights really exposes the seedy underbelly of the porn industry, the actors are generally sad and disenchanted in their personal lives and there is an underlying feeling of sexual boredom about the movie. Mark Wahlberg does a fabulous job of portraying Diggler, with his enormous appendage and equally inflated ego, and he is very well supported by Julianne Moore, William H. Macy, John C. Reilly and Heather Graham.
It's depiction of the 70's disc era is impeccably good, with great attention being given to the costuming and soundtrack choices. Overall this is a challenging and often ugly movie that isn't going to appeal to everyone tastes, but it is the best movie about the seedy 70's porn industry that I have seen to date.
FINAL SAY: I'm a big, bright, shining star.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1997
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 155 mins
Written, produced and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, Boogie Nights chronicles the rise of an unknown through the Golden Age of Porn in the 1970's. The movie was made as an expansion to Anderson's mockumentary short film The Dirk Diggler Story, and won Burt Reynolds a Best Supporting Actor Golden Globe Award.
In 1977, Eddie Adams (Mark Wahlberg) who works as a dishwasher at the Resenda nightclub, is discovered by porn director Jack Horner (Burt Reynolds). Adams changes his name to Dirk Diggler and begins a successful career starring in action-themed porn movies. He begins to live the carefree lifestyle of a porn star during the 70's disco era, which involves lots of drugs and sex, but things get progressively messier and desperate as the money starts to run out.
Boogie Nights really exposes the seedy underbelly of the porn industry, the actors are generally sad and disenchanted in their personal lives and there is an underlying feeling of sexual boredom about the movie. Mark Wahlberg does a fabulous job of portraying Diggler, with his enormous appendage and equally inflated ego, and he is very well supported by Julianne Moore, William H. Macy, John C. Reilly and Heather Graham.
It's depiction of the 70's disc era is impeccably good, with great attention being given to the costuming and soundtrack choices. Overall this is a challenging and often ugly movie that isn't going to appeal to everyone tastes, but it is the best movie about the seedy 70's porn industry that I have seen to date.
FINAL SAY: I'm a big, bright, shining star.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
TRAINSPOTTING
Release Date: 1996
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 94 mins
Based on the Irvine Welsh novel of the same name and directed by Danny Boyle, this gritty dark comedy/drama follows the struggles of a group of heroin addicts during the late 1980's economically depressed area of Edinburgh. The film had an immediate impact on popular culture and gained a cult following due it's mixture of music and wildly perverse events that created it's own ravey-hypnotic style.
Heroin addict Renton (Ewan McGregor) just goes from one bad idea to the next in an attempt to feed his growing appetite for drugs. His friends Sick Boy, Begbie, Spud and Tommy are all just as haphazard as he is, so Renton attempts to get clean and get on with his life. However, he finds that leaving the drug scene and his friends behind is not going to be an easy task.
Beyond drug addiction, Trainspotting is also exploring other themes like urban poverty and the squalor surrounding the 'culturally rich' area of Edinburgh. It is a grimy and unsettling romp through the world of addiction, filled with youthful energy and seething in a pit of it's own filth, Trainspotting is a dark ride that is dynamic and disturbing in equal measures.
FINAL SAY: Choose Life.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1996
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 94 mins
Based on the Irvine Welsh novel of the same name and directed by Danny Boyle, this gritty dark comedy/drama follows the struggles of a group of heroin addicts during the late 1980's economically depressed area of Edinburgh. The film had an immediate impact on popular culture and gained a cult following due it's mixture of music and wildly perverse events that created it's own ravey-hypnotic style.
Heroin addict Renton (Ewan McGregor) just goes from one bad idea to the next in an attempt to feed his growing appetite for drugs. His friends Sick Boy, Begbie, Spud and Tommy are all just as haphazard as he is, so Renton attempts to get clean and get on with his life. However, he finds that leaving the drug scene and his friends behind is not going to be an easy task.
Beyond drug addiction, Trainspotting is also exploring other themes like urban poverty and the squalor surrounding the 'culturally rich' area of Edinburgh. It is a grimy and unsettling romp through the world of addiction, filled with youthful energy and seething in a pit of it's own filth, Trainspotting is a dark ride that is dynamic and disturbing in equal measures.
FINAL SAY: Choose Life.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
FREEWAY
Release Date: 1996
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 97 mins
A dark and disturbing film loosely based on the fairy-tale Little Red Riding Hood, Freeway is a hard hitting satire with a fast pace and a lot of very deranged characters.
Illiterate delinquent Vanessa (Reese Witherspoon) is on the run after her mother is arrested, she is heading to her grandmothers house when she encounters Bob Wolverton (Kiefer Sutherland). Bob is a charming and hospitable man, who also happens to be a sadistic serial killer and pedophile.
Just like the fairy tale, Vanessa with her red hair and confident attitude spends the duration of the movie trying to outwit Bob, the big bad wolf. There are a lot of deeply sinister behaviours being portrayed here, it's a gory, shocking and mostly unpleasant watch, but Witherspoon and Sutherland are both terrific, and if you can handle your fairy tales speckled with prostitution, drug use and sickos then you will get a lot out of it too.
FINAL SAY: Look who got beaten with the ugly stick.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1996
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 97 mins
A dark and disturbing film loosely based on the fairy-tale Little Red Riding Hood, Freeway is a hard hitting satire with a fast pace and a lot of very deranged characters.
Illiterate delinquent Vanessa (Reese Witherspoon) is on the run after her mother is arrested, she is heading to her grandmothers house when she encounters Bob Wolverton (Kiefer Sutherland). Bob is a charming and hospitable man, who also happens to be a sadistic serial killer and pedophile.
Just like the fairy tale, Vanessa with her red hair and confident attitude spends the duration of the movie trying to outwit Bob, the big bad wolf. There are a lot of deeply sinister behaviours being portrayed here, it's a gory, shocking and mostly unpleasant watch, but Witherspoon and Sutherland are both terrific, and if you can handle your fairy tales speckled with prostitution, drug use and sickos then you will get a lot out of it too.
FINAL SAY: Look who got beaten with the ugly stick.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
LEAVING LAS VEGAS
Release Date: 1995
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 111 mins
Directed by Mike Figgis, Leaving Las Vegas delivers something completely despairing, deeply touching and absolutely unforgettable. Nicolas Cage deservingly won the Best Actor Award at the 1996 Academy Awards for his striking portrayal of Ben, a man in the final stages of a complete breakdown, and Elizabeth Shue, although nominated didn't win the Best Actress Award; however, she is every bit as good as Cage here and demonstrates strong and previously unseen acting talent in her portrayal of Sera.
Under the bright lights of Las Vegas, Ben, a wayward alcoholic meets Sera, a deeply damaged prostitute. Together they discover mutual acceptance and find that they complete each other in the most unlikely of ways.
Probably the saddest and most disturbing romance movie that has ever been made, Leaving Las Vegas is certainly a tale of tragedy. From the opening scenes it is apparent that the outcomes are going to be grim, but the character development is second to none, the acting is first class and just like watching a slow motion car crash, it is impossible to turn away from.
FINAL SAY: You can never, never ask me to stop drinking.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1995
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 111 mins
Directed by Mike Figgis, Leaving Las Vegas delivers something completely despairing, deeply touching and absolutely unforgettable. Nicolas Cage deservingly won the Best Actor Award at the 1996 Academy Awards for his striking portrayal of Ben, a man in the final stages of a complete breakdown, and Elizabeth Shue, although nominated didn't win the Best Actress Award; however, she is every bit as good as Cage here and demonstrates strong and previously unseen acting talent in her portrayal of Sera.
Under the bright lights of Las Vegas, Ben, a wayward alcoholic meets Sera, a deeply damaged prostitute. Together they discover mutual acceptance and find that they complete each other in the most unlikely of ways.
Probably the saddest and most disturbing romance movie that has ever been made, Leaving Las Vegas is certainly a tale of tragedy. From the opening scenes it is apparent that the outcomes are going to be grim, but the character development is second to none, the acting is first class and just like watching a slow motion car crash, it is impossible to turn away from.
FINAL SAY: You can never, never ask me to stop drinking.
4 Chilli Peppers
SE7EN
Release Date: 1995
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 127 mins
If you're into mystery/crime drama and can handle a few graphic murder scenes, then you will probably get a lot out of Se7en. Stylishly delivered by David Fincher, this film received a lot of commercial success at the box offices internationally, and had tongues wagging when it was released in 1995.
Newly transferred detective Mills (Brad Pitt) teams up with ready-to-retire veteran Somerset (Morgan Freeman) to try and track down a sadistic serial killer that is murdering his victims in correspondence to the seven deadly sins of gluttony, greed, sloth, wrath, pride, lust and envy.
There is a dark and broody undertone to this movie that is hard to ignore, Fincher has clearly gone to a seedy, violent and quite depressing place here. He has highlighted the moral decay of humanity with an overcasting shadow effect called bleach bypass that sustains all of the silver in a film stock, creating a deepened-darkening effect. It works, the film is as unsettling in premise as it is visually. If serial killer films upset you, then you should probably give this one a miss.
FINAL SAY: What's in the box?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1995
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 127 mins
If you're into mystery/crime drama and can handle a few graphic murder scenes, then you will probably get a lot out of Se7en. Stylishly delivered by David Fincher, this film received a lot of commercial success at the box offices internationally, and had tongues wagging when it was released in 1995.
Newly transferred detective Mills (Brad Pitt) teams up with ready-to-retire veteran Somerset (Morgan Freeman) to try and track down a sadistic serial killer that is murdering his victims in correspondence to the seven deadly sins of gluttony, greed, sloth, wrath, pride, lust and envy.
There is a dark and broody undertone to this movie that is hard to ignore, Fincher has clearly gone to a seedy, violent and quite depressing place here. He has highlighted the moral decay of humanity with an overcasting shadow effect called bleach bypass that sustains all of the silver in a film stock, creating a deepened-darkening effect. It works, the film is as unsettling in premise as it is visually. If serial killer films upset you, then you should probably give this one a miss.
FINAL SAY: What's in the box?
3.5 Chilli Peppers
DEAD MAN WALKING
Release Date: 1995
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 122 mins
An American crime-drama, co-produced and directed by Tim Robbins who adapted the screenplay from the non-fiction book of the same name by Sister Helen Prejean C.S.J. This is an intelligent and genuinely devastating movie that explores the realities of corporal punishment in modern society. I recall thinking about this film for a long time after the credits had rolled; this is a deeply affecting tale.
A nun (Susan Sarandon) is called upon to offer comfort to a convicted murderer (Sean Penn) on death row. As their relationship develops, the nun wrestles with her feelings as she comes to understand the hardships of the murdered girl's family and also those of the killer awaiting execution.
Sarandon and Penn are absolutely magnificent together, delivering harrowing and heartfelt performances. Susan Sarandon won an Oscar for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her considerable efforts, and Sean Penn won a Silver Berlin Bear Award, for portraying a character that will have you so completely appalled but also so deeply disturbed about his upcoming execution. This is high tension, emotionally challenging, gritty material, don't expect to not be affected.
FINAL SAY: I just don't see the sense of killing people to say that killing people's is wrong.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1995
Rating: MA 15+
Running Time: 122 mins
An American crime-drama, co-produced and directed by Tim Robbins who adapted the screenplay from the non-fiction book of the same name by Sister Helen Prejean C.S.J. This is an intelligent and genuinely devastating movie that explores the realities of corporal punishment in modern society. I recall thinking about this film for a long time after the credits had rolled; this is a deeply affecting tale.
A nun (Susan Sarandon) is called upon to offer comfort to a convicted murderer (Sean Penn) on death row. As their relationship develops, the nun wrestles with her feelings as she comes to understand the hardships of the murdered girl's family and also those of the killer awaiting execution.
Sarandon and Penn are absolutely magnificent together, delivering harrowing and heartfelt performances. Susan Sarandon won an Oscar for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her considerable efforts, and Sean Penn won a Silver Berlin Bear Award, for portraying a character that will have you so completely appalled but also so deeply disturbed about his upcoming execution. This is high tension, emotionally challenging, gritty material, don't expect to not be affected.
FINAL SAY: I just don't see the sense of killing people to say that killing people's is wrong.
4.5 Chilli Peppers
METAL SKIN
Release Date: 1994
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 115 mins
This little known, low-budget movie was shot in the Melbourne suburb of Altona and follows the lives of four adolescents struggling with their bleak existences in a blue collar world.
Young petrol-head and painfully shy misfit Joe (Aden Young) befriends a reckless womanizer named Dazey (Ben Mendelsohn). Dazey's girlfriend (Nadine Gardner) has been severely injured by a car fire, caused by Dazy himself and is struggling to come to terms with her altered appearance and concerns over Dazey's fidelity. Meanwhile, Savina (Tara Morice) uses Joe's friendship with Dazey as a way to get closer to her crush, practising witchcraft and deceit with great neglect. When the character's true motivations are revealed, things take a violent and tragic turn for the worse.
There are some serious issues being tackled here, like mental illness, destructive esoteric practises, self awareness, rage and the need for speed. It's a gritty, nasty and mostly disturbing story that left me feeling really sad.
FINAL SAY: Totally out of control.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1994
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 115 mins
This little known, low-budget movie was shot in the Melbourne suburb of Altona and follows the lives of four adolescents struggling with their bleak existences in a blue collar world.
Young petrol-head and painfully shy misfit Joe (Aden Young) befriends a reckless womanizer named Dazey (Ben Mendelsohn). Dazey's girlfriend (Nadine Gardner) has been severely injured by a car fire, caused by Dazy himself and is struggling to come to terms with her altered appearance and concerns over Dazey's fidelity. Meanwhile, Savina (Tara Morice) uses Joe's friendship with Dazey as a way to get closer to her crush, practising witchcraft and deceit with great neglect. When the character's true motivations are revealed, things take a violent and tragic turn for the worse.
There are some serious issues being tackled here, like mental illness, destructive esoteric practises, self awareness, rage and the need for speed. It's a gritty, nasty and mostly disturbing story that left me feeling really sad.
FINAL SAY: Totally out of control.
3 Chilli Peppers
ONCE WERE WARRIORS
Release Date: 1994
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 102 mins
There is nothing fuzzy and feel good going on in this movie. Set in Auckland New Zealand, Once Were Warriors tells the disturbing story of life for the Heke family. Domestic violence, sexual abuse and substance abuse are all on the table in this graphic and bold depiction of a low socioeconomic family struggling to hold it together under extreme adversity.
At the centre of the drama is Jake 'The Muss', scarily portrayed by Temuera Morrison. Jake is an abusive drunkard seemingly determined to tear his family apart and keep his tortured wife Beth from reconnecting with her beloved Maori ancestry.
This is harrowing and utterly gut wrenching viewing that will make even the strongest viewers uncomfortable, confronting stuff.
FINAL SAY: A family in serious crisis.
4 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1994
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 102 mins
There is nothing fuzzy and feel good going on in this movie. Set in Auckland New Zealand, Once Were Warriors tells the disturbing story of life for the Heke family. Domestic violence, sexual abuse and substance abuse are all on the table in this graphic and bold depiction of a low socioeconomic family struggling to hold it together under extreme adversity.
At the centre of the drama is Jake 'The Muss', scarily portrayed by Temuera Morrison. Jake is an abusive drunkard seemingly determined to tear his family apart and keep his tortured wife Beth from reconnecting with her beloved Maori ancestry.
This is harrowing and utterly gut wrenching viewing that will make even the strongest viewers uncomfortable, confronting stuff.
FINAL SAY: A family in serious crisis.
4 Chilli Peppers
ROMPER STOMPER
Release Date: 1992
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 94 mins
An Australian drama written and directed by Geoffrey Wright. Set in the blue collar suburbs of Melbourne, the movie tells the story of the exploits and downfall of a neo-Nazi group.
Hando (Russell Crowe) and Davey (Daniel Pollock) are thug racists and leaders of a neo-Nazi movement. They spend their free time terrorizing and attacking local Asian communities, and end up on the run after they take a beating from a group of Vietnamese pub owners. Hando and Andy take junkie Gabe (Jacqueline McKenzie) with them because she has hatched a plan to rob her affluent parents home, however Gabe's presence causes great tension between the two men.
This film was made long before Russell Crowe was a household name, and he absolutely amazing here; all talent and no ego. The movie received generally mixed reviews, and has been compared to Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange for it's violent depictions of immoral youth.
Romper Stomper is a convincing glimpse into a deranged subculture, the racism and raw edged violence are confronting, but this film never intended to comfort anyone, it's main aim is distress, which it does very well.
FINAL SAY: You enjoy being cannon fodder for the system?
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1992
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 94 mins
An Australian drama written and directed by Geoffrey Wright. Set in the blue collar suburbs of Melbourne, the movie tells the story of the exploits and downfall of a neo-Nazi group.
Hando (Russell Crowe) and Davey (Daniel Pollock) are thug racists and leaders of a neo-Nazi movement. They spend their free time terrorizing and attacking local Asian communities, and end up on the run after they take a beating from a group of Vietnamese pub owners. Hando and Andy take junkie Gabe (Jacqueline McKenzie) with them because she has hatched a plan to rob her affluent parents home, however Gabe's presence causes great tension between the two men.
This film was made long before Russell Crowe was a household name, and he absolutely amazing here; all talent and no ego. The movie received generally mixed reviews, and has been compared to Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange for it's violent depictions of immoral youth.
Romper Stomper is a convincing glimpse into a deranged subculture, the racism and raw edged violence are confronting, but this film never intended to comfort anyone, it's main aim is distress, which it does very well.
FINAL SAY: You enjoy being cannon fodder for the system?
3 Chilli Peppers
PARIS IS BURNING
Release Date: 1990
Rating: M
Running Time: 71 mins
Ever wondered where Madonna got her idea for Vogue? And where RuPaul got his 'fierce' drag competition ideas? Well look no further, because Paris is Burning will answer all those questions and more.
An American documentary, directed by Jennie Livingston, that chronicles the drag ball culture of the mid to late 80's in New York City and the African-American, Latino, gay and transgender communities involved. This invaluable documentary shines a spotlight on the Golden Age of New York City drag balls and offers a thoughtful exploration of race, class, gender and sexuality in America during the 80's.
Elaborately structured drag ball competitions offer contestants the opportunity to 'walk' and be judged on their 'realness' by prominent members of the scene who have established 'houses' that serve as intentional families, social groups and performance teams.
Through a series of ball footage reels and interviews with prominent members, we gain an intimate and insightful understanding of the struggles, strengths, pride and humour that exists within this colourful subculture.
This is an intelligent, at times troubling, but also desperately hopeful piece that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.
FINAL SAY: It is so obvious that if you have captured the great white way of living, or looking, or dressing, or speaking - you is a marvel.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1990
Rating: M
Running Time: 71 mins
Ever wondered where Madonna got her idea for Vogue? And where RuPaul got his 'fierce' drag competition ideas? Well look no further, because Paris is Burning will answer all those questions and more.
An American documentary, directed by Jennie Livingston, that chronicles the drag ball culture of the mid to late 80's in New York City and the African-American, Latino, gay and transgender communities involved. This invaluable documentary shines a spotlight on the Golden Age of New York City drag balls and offers a thoughtful exploration of race, class, gender and sexuality in America during the 80's.
Elaborately structured drag ball competitions offer contestants the opportunity to 'walk' and be judged on their 'realness' by prominent members of the scene who have established 'houses' that serve as intentional families, social groups and performance teams.
Through a series of ball footage reels and interviews with prominent members, we gain an intimate and insightful understanding of the struggles, strengths, pride and humour that exists within this colourful subculture.
This is an intelligent, at times troubling, but also desperately hopeful piece that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.
FINAL SAY: It is so obvious that if you have captured the great white way of living, or looking, or dressing, or speaking - you is a marvel.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
THE ACCUSED
Release Date: 1988
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 111 mins
A controversial film for its time, The Accused is loosely based on a real-life gang rape that occurred at Big Dan's Bar in Massachusetts in 1983. Jonathan Kaplan was the first director to take on a movie that dealt with rape in such a direct manner, and his film has since forged the way for many other films and programs to be made on the subject.
After a fight with her boyfriend, a drunk Sarah Tobias has an ordeal that will change her life forever. Sarah is brutally raped by three men in a bar whilst other people watch and cheer on. In order for Sarah's assailants and onlookers to receive their proper punishment, she must take the stand and recount the horrific events of that terrible evening.
Jodie Foster acts her heart out and rightfully earned herself an Academy Award for Best Actress, making The Accused one of the only films to take out that award with no other nominations in any other category.
FINAL SAY: Hard to watch.
3 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1988
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 111 mins
A controversial film for its time, The Accused is loosely based on a real-life gang rape that occurred at Big Dan's Bar in Massachusetts in 1983. Jonathan Kaplan was the first director to take on a movie that dealt with rape in such a direct manner, and his film has since forged the way for many other films and programs to be made on the subject.
After a fight with her boyfriend, a drunk Sarah Tobias has an ordeal that will change her life forever. Sarah is brutally raped by three men in a bar whilst other people watch and cheer on. In order for Sarah's assailants and onlookers to receive their proper punishment, she must take the stand and recount the horrific events of that terrible evening.
Jodie Foster acts her heart out and rightfully earned herself an Academy Award for Best Actress, making The Accused one of the only films to take out that award with no other nominations in any other category.
FINAL SAY: Hard to watch.
3 Chilli Peppers
THE ELEPHANT MAN
Release Date: 1980
Rating: PG
Running Time: 123 mins
I recall the first time that I ever saw this movie. I was quite young at the time, and the sight of The Elephant Man totally freaked me out, but I persisted with the story line even though the sight of John Merrick was distressing to me. I honestly believe that this was the first movie that ever made me challenge my instincts of repulsion to look deeper; in short, this film had a truly profound affect on me and the way that I viewed the world.
Based on Fredrick Treve's The Elephant Man and Other Reminiscences and Ashley Montagu's The Elephant Man: A Study in Human Dignity and directed by David Lynch, this harrowing and compassionate tale will most certainly have you reaching for the tissue box with it's heartbreaking drama.
John Merrick (John Hurt), a 19th century Londoner, was born with hideous disfigurements. Treated like a sideshow freak and nicknamed The Elephant Man, Merrick struggles to be seen as anything more than a monster, in spite of his intelligence and gentle nature. Dr. Frederick Treves (Anthony Hopkins) rescues Merrick from a carnival show and attempts to give him a life with dignity.
Hurt and Hopkins are just amazing, delivering quality performances and telling an incredible tale that transforms feelings of fear into feelings of tenderness and empathy. The moody black and white adds to the bleak and stark reality of a movie that is essentially about a man that is trapped within the confines of his own hideous prison of a body.
FINAL SAY: I am not an animal!
4.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1980
Rating: PG
Running Time: 123 mins
I recall the first time that I ever saw this movie. I was quite young at the time, and the sight of The Elephant Man totally freaked me out, but I persisted with the story line even though the sight of John Merrick was distressing to me. I honestly believe that this was the first movie that ever made me challenge my instincts of repulsion to look deeper; in short, this film had a truly profound affect on me and the way that I viewed the world.
Based on Fredrick Treve's The Elephant Man and Other Reminiscences and Ashley Montagu's The Elephant Man: A Study in Human Dignity and directed by David Lynch, this harrowing and compassionate tale will most certainly have you reaching for the tissue box with it's heartbreaking drama.
John Merrick (John Hurt), a 19th century Londoner, was born with hideous disfigurements. Treated like a sideshow freak and nicknamed The Elephant Man, Merrick struggles to be seen as anything more than a monster, in spite of his intelligence and gentle nature. Dr. Frederick Treves (Anthony Hopkins) rescues Merrick from a carnival show and attempts to give him a life with dignity.
Hurt and Hopkins are just amazing, delivering quality performances and telling an incredible tale that transforms feelings of fear into feelings of tenderness and empathy. The moody black and white adds to the bleak and stark reality of a movie that is essentially about a man that is trapped within the confines of his own hideous prison of a body.
FINAL SAY: I am not an animal!
4.5 Chilli Peppers
MIDNIGHT EXPRESS
Release Date: 1978
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 121 mins
A prison drama film directed by Alan Parker and adapted by Oliver Stone from Billy Hayes's 1977 memoir of the same name. Midnight Express had everyone's tongue wagging with its grim depictions of Turkish jails and the very real consequences of being caught smuggling drugs. It was nominated for four Academy Awards and won two of them, and it also won six Golden Globe Awards and three BAFTA's.
Whilst on vacation in Istanbul, Turkey, a young college student named Billy Hayes decides to strap 2 kgs of hashish to his chest and pass through an airport terminal. After being frisked, Billy finds himself on a one-way road to Turkish prison for 30 years, where the treatment from the other inmates and the sadism from the guards are both terrifying and dangerous.
If this film doesn't put you off drug smuggling, then nothing ever will! And even though Billy was clearly a total fuckwit for strapping that hash to himself in the first place, watching him endure the metal and physical hardships of the Turkey prison system are pretty hard to watch.
Brad Davis does a great job of portraying young Billy and he is well supported by Irene Miracle, John Hurt, Randy Quaid and Bo Hopkin who all deliver realistic and well fleshed out roles. It's not an easy watch by any stretch of the imagination, but you wouldn't ever expect an easy ride from a jail drama, especially not one with a drug sentencing.
FINAL SAY: Catch the midnight express.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1978
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 121 mins
A prison drama film directed by Alan Parker and adapted by Oliver Stone from Billy Hayes's 1977 memoir of the same name. Midnight Express had everyone's tongue wagging with its grim depictions of Turkish jails and the very real consequences of being caught smuggling drugs. It was nominated for four Academy Awards and won two of them, and it also won six Golden Globe Awards and three BAFTA's.
Whilst on vacation in Istanbul, Turkey, a young college student named Billy Hayes decides to strap 2 kgs of hashish to his chest and pass through an airport terminal. After being frisked, Billy finds himself on a one-way road to Turkish prison for 30 years, where the treatment from the other inmates and the sadism from the guards are both terrifying and dangerous.
If this film doesn't put you off drug smuggling, then nothing ever will! And even though Billy was clearly a total fuckwit for strapping that hash to himself in the first place, watching him endure the metal and physical hardships of the Turkey prison system are pretty hard to watch.
Brad Davis does a great job of portraying young Billy and he is well supported by Irene Miracle, John Hurt, Randy Quaid and Bo Hopkin who all deliver realistic and well fleshed out roles. It's not an easy watch by any stretch of the imagination, but you wouldn't ever expect an easy ride from a jail drama, especially not one with a drug sentencing.
FINAL SAY: Catch the midnight express.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
DELIVERANCE
Release Date: 1972
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 110 mins
Based on the 1970 novel of the same name by American author James Dickey, Deliverance received wide acclaim as a landmark picture, not just for it's dueling banjos and dangerous trip into an unknown wilderness, but mostly due its notorious male rape scene. In 2008, Deliverance was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically or aesthetically significant."
Four friends head out for a weekend of rafting and camping along the Cahulawassee River of Georgia. The locals are anything but welcoming, and the men find themselves stalked and eventually viciously attacked by a group of redneck thugs. The men's trip rapidly becomes a fight for survival as they attempt to get back to civilization.
An very young Jon Voight and Burt Reynolds form half of the group, rounded out by Ned Beatty and Ronny Cox - both making their debut into acting. It's an unpleasant watch and I'm pretty sure that it would've put men off camping in the woods for many years after its release.
FINAL SAY: I bet you can squeal like a pig.
3.5 Chilli Peppers
Release Date: 1972
Rating: R 18+
Running Time: 110 mins
Based on the 1970 novel of the same name by American author James Dickey, Deliverance received wide acclaim as a landmark picture, not just for it's dueling banjos and dangerous trip into an unknown wilderness, but mostly due its notorious male rape scene. In 2008, Deliverance was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically or aesthetically significant."
Four friends head out for a weekend of rafting and camping along the Cahulawassee River of Georgia. The locals are anything but welcoming, and the men find themselves stalked and eventually viciously attacked by a group of redneck thugs. The men's trip rapidly becomes a fight for survival as they attempt to get back to civilization.
An very young Jon Voight and Burt Reynolds form half of the group, rounded out by Ned Beatty and Ronny Cox - both making their debut into acting. It's an unpleasant watch and I'm pretty sure that it would've put men off camping in the woods for many years after its release.
FINAL SAY: I bet you can squeal like a pig.
3.5 Chilli Peppers