Erin Brockovich

Tags

2000's, Aaron Eckhart, Albert Finney, Based on a true story, Drama, Erin Brockovich, Julia Roberts, Marg Helgenberger, Steven Soderbergh

Film Title

Erin Brockovich

Director

Steven Soderbergh

Starring

• Julia Roberts as Erin Brockovich
• Albert Finney as Ed Masry
• Aaron Eckhart as George
• Marg Helgenberger as Donna Jensen

Based on a true story, Erin Brockovich is a warm and uplifting crowd pleaser that doesn’t feel mawkish for a second. Bolstered by the Oscar-winning performance of Julia Roberts and competently directed by Steven Soderbergh, Erin Brockovich makes for emotionally involving and compulsive viewing of the underdog taking on the hierarchy of corruption.

Erin Brockovich is an unemployed single mother of three young children, who has recently been injured in a road accident. Her lawyer, the wise Ed Masry, hopes to win the case in suing the doctor who caused the crash. Erin’s brassy behaviour and use of profane language does little to endear her to the court and she loses the case. At the end of her tether struggling to provide for her family, she talks her way into a job at Ed’s law firm. An unconventional presence among straight-laced staff, Erin’s take no prisoners attitude and revealing wardrobe constantly test Ed’s patience. Whilst looking through the real-estate files of Pacific Gas and Electric who are planning to purchase the house of a woman in Hinkley, California  she finds medical records and blood samples. Curious, she checks out the intriguing oddity. Speaking to Donna, the woman whose file she found it in, she discovers the unusual correspondence between the company and the family’s in the area. Plus, many of the residents in the area have become sick with various and dangerous medical conditions. Continuing to dig up details in the complicated but little-known case, Erin unearths a cover up as the company has been poisoning the water supply within the area. Erin pursues the case, revealing the warmth behind her streetwise exterior, and begins to form a case against Pacific Gas and Electric in order to help the community. Prepare for a funny, dramatic and moving take on the David and Goliath story as the excellent direction of Steven Soderbergh,a witty yet insightful script and strong performances from Roberts and Finney add to the overall charm and emotionally drive of  Erin Brockovich.

The screenplay for this movie manages to balance humour and pathos in equal measure, and although you may guess the outcome, still keeps you wondering whether Erin’s case will win.  It also manages to flesh out the interesting investigation of the cover-up and how Erin’s good heart and brash demeanor aid her in her quest for justice. Steven Soderbergh’s direction gives the piece a naturalness that allows the actors to embody their roles effectively whilst also giving us a touching story of an unconventional woman using her smarts and big heart to help others.  The cinematography captures a hazy glow of California as Erin works her way towards answers. The actors in the cast are all convincing in their roles. Julia Roberts delivers a strong, Oscar-winning performance as the eponymous Erin. Roberts embodies the tough, brassy attitude, foul mouth, heart of gold and a deep empathy to give us a woman who will stop at nothing when it comes to the case. It really is a joy to watch this tenacious character prove her intelligence and strength in the face of corporate big wigs trying to avoid a lawsuit. She is ably supported by Albert Finney as Ed, who is initially unsure about Erin but comes to see the intelligence and caring side that have long been underestimated in Erin. Finney has an excellent camaraderie with Roberts, as we watch two stark opposites learn to respect one another. Aaron Eckhart manages to create an interesting character in the role of George, a biker who takes a shine to Erin but begins to worry when the case begins to overtake her. Marg Helgenberger shines in a touching role as a woman who has suffered with illness because of the cover-up.

Emotionally rich, involving and well-performed, Erin Brockovich provides laughs, cries and above all praise.

X2: X-Men United

Tags

2000's, Aaron Stanford, Action, Alan Cumming, Anna Paquin, Brian Cox, Bryan Singer, Famke Janssen, Fantasy, Halle Berry, Hugh Jackman, Ian McKellen, James Marsden, Kelly Hu, Patrick Stewart, Rebecca Romijn-Stamos, Shawn Ashmore, X2: X-Men United

Film Title

X2: X-Men United

Director

Bryan Singer

Starring

• Patrick Stewart as Professor X
• Hugh Jackman as Logan/Wolverine
• Ian McKellen as Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto
• Halle Berry as Ororo Munroe/Storm
• Famke Janssen as Jean Grey
• James Marsden as Scott Summers/Cyclops
• Anna Paquin as Marie/Rogue
• Rebecca Romijn-Stamos as Mystique
• Brian Cox as Colonel William Stryker
• Alan Cumming as Kurt Wagner/Nightcrawler
• Aaron Stanford as John Allerdyce/Pyro
• Shawn Ashmore as Bobby Drake/Iceman
• Kelly Hu as Lady Deathstrike

Following on from the groundwork of the first movie, X2: X-Men United is to many including me, a better film than the first. We get more action, character development and an exciting storyline. The first one is a great movie, but for me X2 is a film I hold in higher regard because of its breathless action, special effects and high calibre cast.

After an attempt on the president’s life by a mutant, the prejudice between humans and mutants continues to grow. Professor X initially wonders whether his old friend and now adversary Magneto had anything to do with it. Meanwhile, Wolverine is trying to piece together the pieces of his past but finding it increasingly hard to find answers. Professor X and Cyclops visit Magneto in his prison to find out what he knows, while Jean Grey and Storm track down the mutant who made an attempt on the president’s life. Wolverine is left to watch over the students whilst all of this is going on. The intelligent Professor X soon discovers that it wasn’t Magneto who orchestrated the attack, but the mysterious and sadistic Colonel Stryker, who later captures the Professor and Cyclops and holds the key to Wolverine’s past. Stryker plans to use him to locate the powerful Cerebro, which will enable him to find every mutant in the world and kill them. He sends his forces to Xavier’s academy where they capture several students, many of the others including Rogue, her new boyfriend Bobby/Iceman and John/Pyro manage to escape with Wolverine. After discovering the mutant who attempted to kill the president, his name is Nightcrawler and he can teleport, Storm and Jean realise he was brainwashed to do it by Stryker. The X-Men reluctantly team up with Magneto and his partner the shapeshifter Mystique to bring down Stryker’s plan of mutant extermination.

Whereas in the first movie, Bryan Singer established the characters, certain ones were not given enough screen time. He more than makes up for this with X2, by expanding character arcs and introducing new characters. One thing that is enjoyable about the film is the way it manages to keep our interest by cross-cutting between the different factions of the team as they discover Stryker’s nefarious plan. This clearly shows the breathless scope of Singer’s film as he manages to balance this character development with stunning set pieces and revelations. The script is excellent again, this time focusing on the theme of mutant acceptance into the world and how Professor X peacefully yet forcefully tries to push this idea. It is also interesting to watch Magneto and his band of mutants join forces with the X-Men, as the goals for both are different but in this time of uncertainty they are very much united in bringing the sadistic Stryker down.

The cast of the film is high calibre to say the least. Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen both shine as the strong adversary’s with wit and intelligence. Hugh Jackman continues his role of Wolverine with charm and aggression.  Halle Berry is given a lot more to do as Storm and nails the role with a determination and sexy kick ass attitude. Famke Janssen grows in power as Jean, making her a character you really don’t want to mess with. Unfortunately, James Marsden is given little to do as Cyclops in this movie. On the other hand, Anna Paquin continues to impress as Rogue, portraying her angst and frustration as she begins a relationship but can’t physically connect. Brian Cox is a splendidly evil villain in this and is relishes the despicable nature of his character with glee. Rebecca Romijn-Stamos continues to slink across the screen with a sexy yet dangerous appeal as Mystique. Alan Cumming manages to elicit sympathy for the character of Nightcrawler, showing how he isn’t as bad as people have made him out to be and how he is a god-fearing person. New to the X-Men universe are Aaron Stanford as the fire controlling Pyro and Shawn Ashmore as the Iceman. The two are excellently cast, with Iceman’s revelation to his parents that he is a mutant a particularly moving moment and Pyro considering defecting Magneto’s band of mutants an interesting choice.  Rounding out the cast is Kelly Hu, who provides silent but lethal menace as the claw wielding Lady Deathstrike. Her battle with Wolverine is an action-packed set piece that barely pauses for breath.

Directed with precision by Bryan Singer, X2 emerges as an action-packed follow-up to X-Men that more than capably stands on its own two feet as a great movie.

X-Men

Tags

2000's, Action, Anna Paquin, Bruce Davison, Bryan Singer, Famke Janssen, Fantasy, Halle Berry, Hugh Jackman, Ian McKellen, James Marsden, Patrick Stewart, Ray Park, Rebecca Romijn-Stamos, Tyler Mane, X-Men

Film Title

X-Men

Director

Bryan Singer

Starring

• Patrick Stewart as Professor X
• Hugh Jackman as Logan/Wolverine
• Ian McKellen as Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto
• Famke Janssen as Jean Grey
• James Marsden as Scott Summers/Cyclops
• Halle Berry as Ororo Munroe/Storm
• Anna Paquin as Marie/Rogue
• Rebecca Romijn-Stamos as Mystique
• Tyler Mane as Sabretooth
• Bruce Davison as Senator Kelly
• Ray Park as Toad

Based on the iconic comics and boasting some stunning effects, X-Men is often considered the film that helped reboot the superhero film genre in 2000 after a number of underwhelming efforts in the 90’s. Strong on both characters and action, X-Men is that rare thing: an action movie with an intelligent and interesting subtext of intolerance.

In the not too distant future, many humans have evolved into mutants, who possess unique powers. In a world of prejudice and fear, many of these mutants have been met with hostility by others. The film begins at a summit in which political figures are discussing the possibility of a “Mutant Registration Act” which would make all mutant declare their powers publicly. The leader of this is Senator Kelly, who has a deep fear of mutants. Present at the summit are Professor Charles Xavier, a highly powerful telepathic mutant and his old friend and now enemy, Magneto, who has the power to control electromagnetic fields to dangerous effects. Although enemies, they still have a certain amount of respect for one another. They discuss the idea of mutant co-existing with humans, but Magneto warns of the danger and hints at how he will take his plans into action.  Meanwhile, a young girl known as Rogue has run away from home after discovering she has the power to drain others of their energy, thus rendering physical contact almost impossible. Along the way she meets Logan, also known as Wolverine, who has rapid healing power and has claws that emerge from his knuckles when he is angry. After giving her a ride, they are attacked by one of Magneto’s henchman Sabretooth. Lucky for them, they are rescued by Storm and Cyclops. Taken to Xavier’s school for the gifted, they are provided with a safe haven from the prejudice of the outside world. Professor X watches over the school and attempts to educate the children who come there that they are gifted rather than evil or sick as the outside world has branded them. Other mutants include Jean Gray, a doctor with telekinesis; Cyclops who emits a strong force from his eyes and Storm, who can manipulate the weather.  Professor X is worried about what Magneto will do because of his attitude towards humans; X believes in living harmoniously with humans whereas Magneto believes mutants have a greater power. Joining the X-Men team, Wolverine and Rogue along with the others attempt to find out what Magneto plans to do before the power struggle swings into motion. Magneto is not alone, however and is aided by a group of dangerous mutants. This includes Mystique, a highly skilled shapeshifter; Sabretooth; blessed with menacing strength and senses, and Toad, who is a menacing and slimy presence.

The first thing to notice about Bryan Singer’s movie is the screenplay. It excellently balances some excellent fight scenes with the presence of mutants becoming a metaphor for people suffering prejudice because they are deemed different by society. This makes the film relatable as well as immensely enjoyable. Many of the effects are stunning to witness, especially when it comes to showcasing each of the characters powers. Unusually for an action/fantasy, the characters are expanded and we get a genuine idea of what they go through as the narrative progresses. The music also adds to the action-packed atmosphere that pervades X-Men. One flaw could be that the pacing goes a little off in the later half of the film, but for the main part, X-Men certainly delivers the action/fantasy goods with more intelligence than most.

The cast assembled is what you could call top draw, with the actors carefully embodying these characters. Hugh Jackman is the standout as the aggressive, laconic and highly charismatic Wolverine, he really gets some great one-liners and his father-daughter relationship with the troubled Rogue manages to show a softer side. Patrick Stewart is exceptional as the wise and very powerful Professor X, who has some excellent some opposite Ian McKellen. Ian McKellen plays Magneto with a villainous glee that masks a past of suffering at the hands of others. The sexy Famke Janssen provides appeal as the telekinetic Jean, who takes a shine to Wolverine. James Marsden is a sullen presence as the second in command Cyclops, who clashes with Wolverine at various times. Halle Berry manages to ooze a quiet intensity as the weather controlling Storm, she may not be given much to do but Halle Berry manages to make Storm memorable. Anna Paquin delves into the alienation of Rogue that makes her a relatable character to audience as we feel her pain at not being able to come into physical contact with anyone without endangering them. Fleshing out the villains are Rebecca Romijn-Stamos as the slinky Mystique, Tyler Mane as the vicious Sabretooth and Ray Park as the creepy Toad. And not forgetting Bruce Davison as the powerful senator, hell-bent on exposing mutants who comes to see what it is really like after an incident with Magneto.

Bryan Singer stunningly combines interesting characters, an allegory on prejudice and some amazing effects to fashion the outstanding X-Men.

The Haunting

Tags

1960's, Claire Bloom, Horror, Julie Harris, Psychological Horror, Richard Johnson, Robert Wise, Russ Tamblyn, Supernatural Horror, The Haunting

Film Title

The Haunting

Director

Robert Wise

Starring

• Julie Harris as Eleanor
• Claire Bloom as Theo
• Richard Johnson as Dr. John Markway
• Russ Tamblyn as Luke Sannerson

The Haunting has been called one of the most unsettling, psychological horror films ever made. And after viewing it I can wholeheartedly agree with that statement. Chilling, eerie and above all scary, The Haunting is a fine example of what you can do with a horror movie without using blood and gore. Focusing on characters and the ultimate nature of fear, it still provides spine-chilling for those who watch it. A word of warning, Don’t watch this one alone!

Hill House is a famous old house in a remote part of New England that was built ninety odd years ago. The history of Hill House is littered with shocking events, with the mysterious deaths of at least four women occurring over the years. The house has now passed to an elderly woman named Mrs. Sannerson. Dr. John Markway is a scientist with an interest in the supernatural and upon learning about Hill House’s chilling past, inquires about conducting an investigation of the place. Assisting him is Eleanor, a meek woman who recently lost her mother to illness, Theo; a stylish and eccentric medium( who it is strongly implied has feelings for Eleanor) and Luke, the skeptical nephew of Mrs. Sannerson who stands to inherit the house. They all arrive at the house and quickly get to know one another. At first nothing happens, but little by little the creepy surrounding take hold. Loud banging is heard in the night. A child screaming echoes round the walls. A chill drifts through the air. This throws our characters into a tailspin as they attempt to understand the source of terror. All the while, the meek Eleanor begins to mentally crumble as the realm of the supernatural begins to take hold and the patient evil of Hill House unleashes itself upon the quartet, in particular Eleanor. Prepare for shocks galore, unseen terror and terrifying consequences as The Haunting takes hold and refuses to let go.

The first thing to praise in The Haunting is the overall visual style that plunges the viewer deep into the psychological terror that is brought on whilst the characters are in Hill House. Robert Wise utilises distorted angles, fish eyes lenses and unusual tracking shots. All of this further adds to the sheer scariness of the material. Also, keeping the source of terror unseen lets the audience make up for their own mind what is really haunting the house. This is the kind of horror movie I enjoy, with hardly any bloodshed but scares a plenty. The Haunting burrows deep into the mind and it will be weeks before you will not have to look over your shoulder to see if someone is there. Chilling sequences abound such as when Eleanor hears loud banging and believes she is holding Theo’s hand. When she switches the light on, someone has clearly been holding her hand but it isn’t Theo. Eleanor’s mental state beginning to decline is expertly conveyed through an internal monologue. Hearing her thoughts as she attempts to stay sane is frightening and highly effective to watch. The score for The Haunting contributes a Gothic atmosphere to the proceedings and the use of extended silences and sudden noises is terror personified.

Unusually for a horror film, the characters are integral and establishing their personalities is a crucial part to The Haunting. The relatively small cast all create interesting characters. Julie Harris makes the biggest impact with her performance as Eleanor, we see the terror, uncertainty and inner suffering as she comes to believe the house is after her. A lot of the horror in the picture is captured through her terrified eyes. Claire Bloom contributes a mysterious and eccentric quality to the character of the clairvoyant Theo. The fact that Theo is implied to be a lesbian adds an interesting dimension to the story as we see her jealousy at the affection between Markway and Eleanor and we see the shy Eleanor becoming more conflicted with her emotions as a result of this. The Haunting, released in the 60’s when talk of lesbianism was taboo, shows itself as being quite daring for the inclusion of Theo’s character. Richard Johnson is suitably intense as the one who sets up the investigation. Russ Tamblyn, as the skeptical nephew who comes to see the horror of the house he will one day inherit, adds a youthful, non-believing quality that soon withers as the evil of the house encroaches.

In the run up to Halloween, The Haunting is a film you should watch. Prepare for terror, ambiguity and things that go bump in the night as The Haunting weaves its chilling spell upon you.

Monster’s Ball

Tags

2000's, Billy Bob Thornton, Drama, Halle Berry, Heath Ledger, Marc Forster, Monster's Ball, Peter Boyle, Sean Combs

Film Title

Monster’s Ball

Director

Marc Forster

Starring

• Billy Bob Thornton as Hank Grotowski
• Halle Berry as Leticia Musgrove
• Heath Ledger as Sonny Grotowski
• Peter Boyle as Buck Grotowski
• Sean Combs as Lawrence Musgrove

Monster’s Ball is a compelling story of family, redemption and grief in the South. Anchored by the performances of Billy Bob Thornton and an Oscar-winning Halle Berry, it focuses on the slow personal bond emerges between two very different characters as they navigate their way through tragedy. It may be tough to watch at times, but the performances and the sensitive script make Monster’s Ball worth viewing.

Hank Grotowski is an embittered corrections officer in the Georgia State Prison. Sonny, Hank’s son, also has the same job as his father. Their personal lives are bleak with Hank having a deep hatred of Sonny and living with Hank’s racist father Buck, who although failing in his health, still rules the house with an iron will. At the moment, they are to undersea the execution of Lawrence Musgrove, a convicted murderer with a talent for drawing. Whereas Hank doesn’t get involved personally with Lawrence, the more understanding Sonny sees the good in him. When they are to execute Lawrence, the proceedings really get to Sonny who vomits and can’t go through with it. After Lawrence is electrocuted, Hank berates Sonny for his weakness. Meanwhile, over the years, Lawrence’s wife Leticia has visited with his son. Leticia is tired of coming to the place and is failing to keep her house running, whilst raising her young son all by herself. Later on, when tragedy strikes for both Hank and Leticia, they are suddenly thrust together and slowly form an unlikely but powerful bond with each other as they attempt to heal the deep wounds of loss. Against this backdrop of grief, Hank and Leticia are able to connect with each other and finally open up about their personal demons. Cue for intense acting, high drama and a sensitive relationship that emerges between these two flawed and human characters.

For the first half hour or so, I was initially unsure of Monster’s Ball. The slow pacing felt like it would be an arduous journey, but then I realised the purpose of this was to build on the complexities of these characters and I began to see the good in the picture. Although very bleak at times, there is still that glimmer of hope between the characters that saves Monster’s Ball from sliding into constant misery. Once the film hits its stride, boy does it soar to dramatic heights. The tough but also very sensitive screenplay shows us wounded characters in need of someone to open up to and care for them and manages to tackle issues of racism and bigotry. Although racism does play a part in the film( prominently in the case of Hank’s father), it isn’t the main theme of the piece but the way it is shown is still powerful written. The main theme is the gradual connection of two souls understanding what the other is going through. We subtly gain insights into Hank and Leticia’s characters and how each one of them changes the other in the process of their relationship. At times Marc Forster’s directing style is at odds with the narrative, but for the most part he fashions a powerful film about the complexities of the heart and the way people just need someone to listen to in a time of sorrow.

The biggest asset to Monster’s Ball has definitely got to be the talented cast. As the embittered Hank, Billy Bob Thornton manages to convey a deep sadness and a certain amount of hope as his worldview changes and he resents his father’s opinions. The real standout performance is Halle Berry, who collected a well-deserved Oscar for her role. She conveys so much of Leticia’s emotions, from her grief, vulnerability and tired pain to her gradually deep understanding of Hank. There is one particular moment that I will always remember of Berry’s performance. In it, the camera focuses on her face and you see the various emotions almost simultaneously flash across it. It is an outstanding moment that showcases Halle Berry’s range as an actress. Even though many remember the pivotal love scene between Hank and Leticia, it is not there just to be sexy, it is there to showcase the connection between the two as they open up the deep emotional scars that lie beneath the surface. In the supporting cast, Heath Ledger shines with his brief appearance as the hated Sonny, who desperately wants a connection with his distant father but unfortunately never gets it. Peter Boyle is a surly presence as the ailing but angry racist who begins to push Hank to breaking point as he berates him over his choices. In the role of Lawrence, Sean Combs excellently plays the catalyst of the story with a great amount of sensitivity.

Difficult to watch at times due to some unpleasant violence and the flawed yet very realistic characters, Monster’s Ball is worth watching as a powerful study of grief, human connection and redemption. Aided by two powerful performances, Monster’s Ball is compelling and equally dramatic.

A Mighty Heart

Tags

2000's, A Mighty Heart, Angelina Jolie, Archie Panjabi, Based on a true story, Dan Futterman, Daniel Pearl, Denis O'Hare, Drama, Irrfan Khan, Mariane Pearl, Michael Winterbottom, Will Patton

Film Title

A Mighty Heart

Director

Michael Winterbottom

Starring

• Angelina Jolie as Mariane Pearl
• Dan Futterman as Daniel Pearl
• Archie Panjabi as Asra Nomani
• Irrfan Khan as Captain Zubair Mahmood
• Will Patton as Randall Bennett
• Denis O’Hare as John Bussey

Based on the true story of Daniel Pearl, a Wall Street Journal reporter who was kidnapped and eventually killed by terrorists in Karachi in 2002, A Mighty Heart focuses on the attempts of his pregnant wife Mariane to secure his release. Directed with a documentary feel by Michael Winterbottom and boasting a powerful performance by Angelina Jolie, A Mighty  Heart is a gripping, tense and poignant account of a woman trying to remain strong in the face of unimaginable shock. 

The year is 2002, Daniel Pearl and his wife Mariane, who is also a journalist arrive in Karachi, Pakistan. Daniel is investigating a link to Al-Qaeda and is to meet a powerful sheikh for an interview. It is on the way to this interview that he is kidnapped. When Daniel doesn’t return home, Mariane begins an investigation to find him. Helping her in this tense and desperate investigation are Asra, a co-worker of Daniel’s, a Pakistani security Captain Zubair Mahmood, American agent Randall Bennett and John Bussey, a writer at the Wall Street Journal. Throughout the subsequent investigation, we see how Mariane held on to hope that Daniel would be found and focuses on the inner strength of this woman facing unbearable circumstances. Well-performed and evocatively scored, A Mighty Heart emerges as a searing drama that never sugar-coats or exploits  the true story, but instead lets us see the efforts that went into trying to secure Daniel’s release and the unwavering courage of Mariane.

Visually, A Mighty Heart drives to the hard of its subject matter by use of hand-held camerawork and rapid editing. Through this, we as an audience, are thrust into the whirlwind of confusion and uncertainty that engulfs the case and witness as Daniel’s release is attempted by various parties. Although we know the outcome of the story, the film is still unbearably tense as we see the various parts of the against the clock investigation.  The overall documentary style of filmmaking adds to the intimacy of the story of Mariane’s courage and shows us the many grim realities of Daniel’s kidnapping.The bustling and winding streets of Karachi become a metaphor for the twisting case and the hardship faced by Mariane as she attempts to remain strong in the face of adversity. Sonically, the movie features an evocative score of Middle Eastern percussion and voices to highlight the setting.

In terms of acting in the picture, everyone delivers. Out of the supporting cast Archie Panjabi and Irrfan Khan are solid as a journalist friend and the security chief attempting to obtain Daniel’s rescue. Will Patton and Denis O’Hare also perform admirably as two other members of this tense investigation. Dan Futterman in the pivotal role of Daniel Pearl is exceptionally cast and credible. But the acting honors in A Mighty Heart have to go to Angelina Jolie. She inhabits the character of Mariane with a subtle intelligence, passion and quiet power. For those who only think of Jolie as a kick-ass babe, watch this movie and witness her moving delivery of a strong woman in a time of unimaginable pain. Even when Jolie isn’t saying anything, she radiates emotion as her hope never dies and her spirit remains strong. For my money, this is one of Angelina Jolie’s best performances in her career. Michael Winterbottom with a documentary style immediacy that shows us the amount of work that went into the case and how it impacted on those closest to Daniel Pearl.

Evocative, tense and searing, A Mighty Heart is an excellent film. Whether seen as a thriller or a drama/biopic, it works either way. Boasting an all round great cast, headed by the powerfully moving performance of Angelina Jolie, it is a true testament to one woman’s strength in the face of the horror around her.

Easy A

Tags

2010's, Aly Michalka, Amanda Bynes, Comedy, Dan Byrd, Easy A, Emma Stone, Lisa Kudrow, Malcolm McDowell, Patricia Clarkson, Penn Badgley, Stanley Tucci, Thomas Haden Church, Will Gluck

Film Title

Easy A

Director

Will Gluck

Starring

• Emma Stone as Olive Penderghast
• Penn Badgley as Woodchuck Todd
• Amanda Bynes as Marianne Bryant
• Thomas Haden Church as Mr. Griffith
• Lisa Kudrow as Mrs. Griffith
• Aly Michalka as Rhiannon
• Dan Byrd as Brandon
• Patricia Clarkson as Rosemary Penderghast
• Stanley Tucci as Dill Penderghast
• Malcolm McDowell as Principal Gibbons

Funny, insightful and above all relatable, Easy A examines in comedic fashion that effects that a few little white lies can have on you and your reputation in the puzzling jungle known as high school. Headed by the excellent Emma Stone, Easy A is well above the average teen comedy and is one of the best I’ve seen in my recent memory, mainly because of its razor-sharp script and funny reworking of The Scarlet Letter.

Olive Penderghast is an average high school girl, who while not the most popular girl in school is not the most unpopular either. In order to get out of a camping trip with her best friend Rhiannon, Olive lies and says she lost her virginity having a passionate weekend with a boy. Unfortunately, Marianne, the zealously religious girl, begins to spread the rumour around the school and soon Olive has a reputation as the school tart. Now everyone is gossiping about her alleged personal life whereas before no one really took notice of her, she confides in another friend Brandon, who has recently come out as gay. Suffering bullying at the hands of the other students, he begs Olive to pretend she slept with him. Out of kindness, Olive agrees and when this rumour gets around she embraces the title as a harlot. Funnily enough, her reputation begins to mirror The Scarlet Letter, a book she has recently been studying in English class. But after a while, she begins to see that the reputation has gotten out of hand and is impacting on her relationships with those around her. She decides that maybe it is time she revealed the truth. But will anyone believe her?

The first thing to note in Will Gluck’s movie is the remarkable script it has. Delving into the thorny thicket of teenage gossip and anxiety, it crafts a relatable yet still funny look at the machinations of social standing that occur in high school. Laughs and equal amounts of drama occur, with the cast ably handling both with aplomb. References to John Hughes movies and classic 80’s films abound and will certainly raise a smile from many, including one scene that re-enacts both Say Nothing and The Breakfast Club.The eclectic soundtrack assembled accompanies much of the film, and provides many laughs along the way. A highlight for me has to be Olive singing “Pocketful of Sunshine” for almost the whole weekend, I really couldn’t stop laughing after viewing this scene.

Emma Stone is smart, sexy and touching as Olive, who finds herself branded the Hester Prynne of her school after that little white lie became public knowledge. She excellently captures the caring side of her and the willingness to help others, whilst also showing a charismatic sense of humour when people turn on her. Olive is a character who many can identify with and much of this adds to the success of Easy A. Penn Badgley of Gossip Girl film makes his role as the boy who sees through the lies and manages to woo Olive, more interesting than it could have been. As the zealous Marianne, Amanda Bynes is particularly good, her scenes with Stone providing many comedic highlights. One being Marianne telling Olive that a higher power won’t approve of her depraved behaviour. Olive’s witty reply “Tom Cruise” will have you laughing for ages. Thomas Haden Church and Lisa Kudrow in supporting roles perform very well as married teachers. Dan Byrd as Brandon earns sympathy as the much bullied Brandon who Olive helps out. Aly Michalka is a cheeky presence as the bossy Rhiannon. And rounding out the cast are Patricia Clarkson and Stanley Tucci as Olive’s super groovy parents, who steal every scene in which they appear. Look out for Malcolm McDowell in a humorous cameo as the principal.

What could have been another clichéd teen movie becomes something much greater in the form of Easy A. If it’s a teen movie that probes into many issues facing youths on a daily basis and a fine cast fleshing out the eccentric roles of this modern take on The Scarlet Letter, Easy A may be the film you’ve been searching for.

Hellraiser

Tags

1980's, Andrew Robinson, Ashley Laurence, Cenobites, Clare Higgins, Clive Barker, Doug Bradley, Hellraiser, Horror, Oliver Smith, Pinhead, Sean Chapman

Film Title

Hellraiser

Director

Clive Barker

Starring

• Andrew Robinson as Larry Cotton
• Clare Higgins as Julia Cotton
• Ashley Laurence as Kirsty Cotton
• Sean Chapman as Frank Cotton
• Oliver Smith as Frank the Monster
• Doug Bradley as Pinhead

Directed by Clive Barker from his own novella, Hellraiser unleashes a chilling, perverse and gruesome spell upon you that still holds up today. Focusing on the consequences of opening a mysterious puzzle box, it makes for ambient, blood-soaked and above all creepy viewing for horror hounds everywhere.If it’s 80’s horror you’re craving, you won’t go wrong with Hellraiser.

In the chilling opening, Frank Cotton, a sexual adventurer purchases a mysterious puzzle box in an unnamed country. In the attic of his London house, surrounded by candles, Frank manages to solve the puzzle. Unfortunately for him, he is then torn apart by hooks. Years later, Frank’s brother Larry and his wife Julia move into the old house, believing that Frank is on the run in some remote corner of the globe. Larry’s daughter from a previous marriage, Kirsty, later comes to visit her father and stepmother.  Whilst moving some of the furniture into the house, Larry cuts his hand on a rusty nail near the foreboding attic. The blood seeps through the floorboards and what remains of Frank’s body begins to regenerate. Julia, clearly unhappy in her marriage, encounters the monster form of Frank, later on that day. It is revealed that Julia once had a torrid affair with Frank and still has a burning desire for him. Frank convinces her to bring men to the house, kill them and let him drink the blood, in the hope that it will regenerate him back to a human state.  Matters are complicated as Frank explains how the box opens a door to another dimension that houses beings known as Cenobites; black garbed demons with an interesting look at the dangerous boundaries between pleasure and excruciating pain. Frank needs to regenerate before the Cenobites realise he has escaped their clutches. As the blood begins spilling and the bodies begin to pile up,Kirsty becomes suspicious of her stepmother’s actions and later stumbles into the perverse plan involving Frank, Julia and the Cenobites. Prepare for startling effects, a gothic and strangely romantic score and some chilling villains as Hellraiser unearths, like the Cenobites, this frightening tale of a perverse love, sadomasochistic designs and blood-spilling terror.

Adapting from his own novella, Clive Barker captures the darkly sexual undercurrent of the tale and manages to both use gore effectively and draw out the character’s motivations. He nails the haunting visuals, making creepy use of melancholy blue for the attic and his use of sonic trickery to give it a whispered chill. He also creates memorable characters in the Cenobites, the most memorable being the aptly named Pinhead. Although they are seen as the antagonists of the piece and they are spine-chilling to say the least, they can actually be reasoned with as they explain they are “Angels to some, demons to others”. If anything the main antagonists are Frank and Julia, as they harvest the blood so Frank can become human again. The make up department deserves particular praise for the look of the demonic Cenobites and for the gory scene in which Frank’s  remains regenerate that will most certainly have the audience squirming in their seats.  The score provided adds extra chills and highlights the strangely perverse love that is apparent between Frank and Julia. 

On the acting front, the cast assembled perform admirably well. Andrew Robinson nails the role of the husband who doesn’t realise his wife’s dangerous and horrific actions. Clare Higgins manages to make Julia sexy, scary and cold as she plumbs to the depths harvesting humans for the love of her life. As Frank in human form, Sean Chapman oozes oily charm as we watch how his hedonistic actions opened the door to unimaginable hell. In the closest thing we have to a heroine, Ashley Laurence effectively portrays the spunky Kirsty who quite literally stumbles into the hellish universe that Frank has brought upon everyone. She makes a great Final Girl and slowly grows from suspicious to defensive as she tries to reverse the puzzle process. Oliver Smith, as the monster version of Frank is a scary creation; selfish, obsessed and oddly passionate.The most memorable characters have got to be the journeying Cenobites, who really do leave a lasting impression. And as they are not pure evil, you get an interesting confrontation between them and Kirsty, who manages to save herself from returning to their hellish domain. Pinhead, the leader(excellently played by Doug Bradley), gets all the best lines, “We’ll tear your soul apart” and “No tears, it’s a waste of good suffering” being the best.

Hellraiser makes for imaginative, gory and adult viewing with its strange mix of sadistic imagery, haunting music, creepy love story and resilient heroine. It is a horror that still holds up well today and is a great example of balancing gore with an interesting story. Well-performed, ambient and terrifying will all be words that will appear to you if you do see Hellraiser.