Stardust

Tags

2000's, Adventure, Charlie Cox, Claire Danes, Fantasy, Ian McKellen, Jason Flemyng, Mark Heap, Mark Strong, Matthew Vaughn, Michelle Pfeiffer, Peter O’Toole, Ricky Gervais, Robert De Niro, Sienna Miller, Stardust

Based on the novel by Neil Gaiman, Stardust is a lavish fantasy of tongue in cheek humour, surprising darkness and a feeling of adventure that can’t be denied. Boasting a game cast and some dazzling scenery/visuals, it’s hard not to be swept up in this movie. 

A rural England town known as Wall is bordered by a giant wall that divides it from the magical kingdom of Stormhold. No one is supposed to go through the portal in the wall and it’s guarded by a man who refuses entry, though one man did and met a beautiful woman who he had a passionate romance with. Nine months later, his son is brought to his doorstep with no sign of the mother. The boy grows up into Tristan Thorn(Charlie Cox), a good-hearted but clumsy man who has a big crush on local beauty Victoria( Sienna Miller). The problem is his love for her is unrequited and Victoria is a selfish and vain woman who enjoys stringing others along. Tristan remains undaunted in his attempts to woo her and this is where things get interesting. In the Kingdom of Stormhold, the old King( Peter O’Toole) is dying and he hasn’t appointed a successor out of his sons. Usually, it’s the last man standing who takes the crown but the King decides to freshen things up a bit. He decrees that the first of his three remaining sons who retrieves his ruby will be crowned. The King throws it into the sky where it hits a falling star. The star is seen by Tristan and Victoria, and the capricious Victoria asks Tristan to retrieve the star to prove his devotion before a deadline. If he succeeds in retrieving the star, Victoria will accept his hand in marriage. Bowled over by her, Tristan naturally accepts the challenge. Little does Tristan realise how far reaching and eventful his quest will be. The biggest surpise is once he passes The Wall, he discovers that the star has taken the form of Yvaine( Claire Danes). She might be a radiant beauty but her personality is feisty and she immediately clashes with Tristan. Both begin to warm up to the other as forces of greed and desperation chase them. The remaining and power hungry princes Septimus( Mark Strong), Tertius( Mark Heap) and Primus( Jason Flemyng)are in hot pursuit, followed by an amusing Greek chorus of deceased siblings. Most evil and menacing of all are witch Lamia(Michelle Pfeiffer) and her siblings, who are fixated on gaining eternal youth of which the star can provide. Lamia in particular is a ruthless being of great power and cunning, who is not to be tricked with once she sets her sights on something. Tristan is thrust into a dangerous adventure to save and get back to The Wall before Victoria’s deadline. But in between dodging death and mischief, Tristan starts to see that maybe Victoria isn’t the girl for him as he develops feelings for Yvaine along the way. 

Matthew Vaughn is on hand for entertaining and dazzling direction, with oodles of style and adventure. He’s a director who knows how to keep a story spinning and very exciting, most evidenced once the breathtaking fantasy elements begin. The script is very successful at placing us in the fantasy adventure of the piece while retaining a certain sense of off the wall sheen. Stardust boats a sense of infectious craziness and off kilter magic that marks it out as something different in the fantasy genre. For while it’s very amusing and playfully silly, these are balanced with some rather creepy and sinister moments that are not quite what you expect but add to the overall appeal of Stardust. It is for my money, a film that will appeal across the generations of viewers that see it. With its humour, romance, darkness and thrills, it’s a true delight of a film that transports you into a zany world for two hours. Oh the humour scale, there are a lot of knowing winks to the audience and some fairly naughty jokes that grown ups watching can appreciate. The locations are breathtaking with mountains, hills and that romantic feeling of a hero’s journey on full display for the viewer. The magic is rendered with fun and panache in the effects department, ensuring a film that’s lovely to look and have a good time with. The only flaw I can find is that there is often so much going on that you can lose focus on the events happening. I mean I like when there are various parts to a story, but there are moments when Stardust overdoes it a bit. I’m grateful however that this is the only niggle I have because the rest of this fantasy make up for it. When the three stories gel, Stardust really hits great heights of intrigue and fantastical fun. The score from Ilan Eshkeri matches the heart, romance and adventure of the film and is pretty beautiful/magical in parts too. And Take That provide the irresistibly catchy “Rule the World” to Stardust, which is hard to get out of your head once your eyes have heard it.

A sensational cast is on hand and all up for a fantastic time. In the lead, Charlie Cox is ideally suited for the main hero thrust into the biggest adventure his life has experienced. Cox is fresh faced, personable and full of charm which goes a long way in playing the hero of our narrative and endearing him to us. Claire Danes has an ethereal glow that aids her in playing the personified star Yvaine, while infusing her with a temperamental personality that softens beautifully once her and Tristan get to know each other . Yvaine be the character everyone is after but she is dar from a simpering victim which is fully embodied by a radiant and bristling Danes. The pair have a very entertaining chemistry that sizzles and enthrals. Standing out and having an obvious ball is Michelle Pfeiffer, who longtime readers know is one of my favourite actresses. She’s relishing playing the lead witch hellbent on getting her youth back and doing it in despicably, delicious fashion. Pfeiffer hits the evil and seductive notes wonderfully, while embracing an eye rolling layer of comedy. It’s a great performance from Michelle Pfeiffer who proves to be a dastardly adversary for our hero but one who’s having a full on blast and savouring this opportunity to play bad to the bone. Robert De Niro has some great comic moments as a space pirate, which finds him playing against his usual image of macho and forceful tough guy. Jason Flemyng and Mark Heap are two of the greedy brothers after the star, though it’s the reliable Mark Strong, on sneering form, who stands out the most as the ruthless brother desperate to be king. I’m not the biggest fan of Ricky Gervais but he’s passable enough as a wheeler dealer. Sienna Miller is effective in her small role as the girl who knows the power of her looks and how to use them to her advantage, which inevitable sets the story in focus. Peter O’Toole contributes an entertaining cameo as the king who sets in motion the quest everyone ends up on before he dies. And on narration duties is Ian McKellen, whose iconic and distinctive voice is richly used. 

So while it is occasionally overstuffed with too many ideas and story, Stardust remains a delightfully different fantasy film with quite a bit going for it. 

Scandal

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1980's, Based on a true story, Bridget Fonda, Britt Ekland, Drama, Ian McKellen, Jeroen Krabbé, Joanne Whalley-Kilmer, John Hurt, Michael Caton-Jones, Scandal

A dramatisation of the Profumo Scandal of the early 60’s, Scandal is a stylish and well acted evocation of the time and excellently focuses on the nature of guilt and a powder keg situation and who suffers and rises as a result of it.

In 1959, society osteopath and charming man Stephen Ward( John Hurt) meets the beautiful young showgirl by the name of Christine Keeler(Joanne Whalley-Kilmer). Immediately entranced, he asks her to live with him and she accepts. Their relationship is mainly platonic as he schools her in the art of moving in higher circles to which he aspires. After a makeover, Christine is ready for the future as Ward introduces her to wealthy gentlemen who she can spend the night with. Joining her is the saucy and fun loving fellow showgirl Mandy Rice-Davies(Bridget Fonda), who goes along with the fun of the time and enjoys the attention. At first, the girls are in it for the fun and Stephen is their sponsor as they share the beds of powerful men and he hears details. Keeler in particular is between the sheets with most notably Minister of War, John Profumo( Ian McKellen) and alleged spy Eugene Ivanov( Jeroen Krabbé) . An inevitable fallout begins when Christine feels used by the whole situation and you can see that Ward is realising he is out of his depth. Scandal engulfs everyone when an angry and dejected Christine sells the story to the papers, setting off a tragic set of events that brings down the Conservative Government and embarrasses the Establishment in the early 1960’s.

Michael Caton-Jones has the right feel for the time where you can sense that times were for the changing and the Sexual Revolution was about to explode. We also get insights into the people behind the headlines and a bit of insight into this revealing affair that captured everyone. Parts of the film drag on occasion and can get a bit dull, but the dark second half more than makes up for any langurs. I would have liked to have seen some characters a little more such as Profumo and , but when they were on screen they were good to view. A tiny bit of expansion is what I wanted just a bit more of, though I understand that the story was mainly focused on Ward. Although it deals with affairs and sexual encounters, Scandal isn’t overtly sleazy. Yes there is nudity and some unusual activity going on, but it doesn’t feel cheap and exploitative because of this immensely watchable true story that was quite the event in its day and shook things up on a massive scale. Plus, I think it skewers the whole myth of those higher up in society being above others in terms of decency, when in fact they are just as bad as anyone else. And who can forget the allure of Christine and Mandy getting ready for a night out; eyeliner going on and stockings being applied, to the sound of ‘Apache’? On a visual level, the glamour and chance of new promise that started with the 60’s is rendered beautifully.

The ever excellent John Hurt turns in one of his most underrated performances as the eventual scapegoat in the spiralling situation. While Ward was no angel, he was used as whipping boy and discarded by the friends in high society who themselves were far from lily white. John Hurt masterfully plays to the flaws of this charming man, but finds sympathy to his eventual fate that befell Ward, who paid for his attempts to move in the right circles. It’s a hard act to pull off, but Hurt does it with considerable skill in finding the lonely heart of a man undone by his actions and given the lions share of blame. Joanne Whalley-Kilmer project a feeling of naive innocence to start and then progress to unearth a sexy and alluring confidence. Whalley-Kilmer is a sensual presence on screen with her dark hair and doe eyes shining. Her biggest triumph is the mystery she encapsulates when playing Keeler; sometimes you are unsure of what she is thinking or likely to do. Through subtle flashes, we view a young woman at the centre of controversy and reacting in all sorts of ways to it.

A wonderfully and impeccably cast Bridget Fonda is a high point; clearly savouring her role as the sexy Mandy with whom Christine finds herself friends with. She’s got the confidence, razor sharp wit and slinky glamour that is superbly put to great use. It’s her who gets the humour and good lines in Scandal and makes the most of them. Although I would have liked to have seen more of him, Ian McKellen is reliably good as Profumo, showing a man paying for his desires and jeopardising everything he’s worked for in return for the company of a beautiful young woman. The same can be said of Jeroen Krabbé, though it’s Mckellen who emerges as the most interesting of the two. A sexy supporting part is afforded to Britt Ekland, who is a stunning beauty and makes the most of her short time on screen.

A well directed and well cast look at The Profumo Affair, Scandal is intriguing and inviting in its exploration of culpability and Parliamentary ruin.

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

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2010's, Aidan Turner, Benedict Cumberbatch, Billy Connolly, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, Dean O'Gorman, Evangeline Lilly, Fantasy, Hugo Weaving, Ian Holm, Ian McKellen, Ken Stott, Lee Pace, Luke Evans, Martin Freeman, Orlando Bloom, Peter Jackson, Richard Armitage, The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

Film Title

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

Director

Peter Jackson

Starring

• Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins
• Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield
• Ian McKellen as Gandalf
• Orlando Bloom as Legolas
• Evangeline Lilly as Tauriel
• Lee Pace as Thranduil
• Luke Evans as Bard
• Aidan Turner as Kíli
• Dean O’Gorman as Fíli
• Ken Stott as Balin
• Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug
• Billy Connolly as Dáin
• Hugo Weaving as Elrond
• Christopher Lee as Saruman
• Ian Holm as Old Bilbo
• Cate Blanchett as Galadriel

As the concluding part of The Hobbit trilogy, The Battle of the Five Armies is a successful last chapter and in my view the best of the Hobbit movies. Exciting, tense yet human in many ways, it’s a rousing finale that definitely captures the attention.

We begin this final slice of Middle Earth adventure were the last one left off. Having reaching the Lonely Mountain, Bilbo and the dwarf crew accidentally woke the vicious dragon Smaug from slumber. The fire-breathing creature leafs the confines of the kingdom and angrily heads to the adjoining Laketown, which he sets about destroying. What is left of the people flee the desolated town, but Bard sets about ridding the place of Smaug and succeeds by firing a makeshift arrow that ultimately kills the dragon. Yet even though Smaug is gone, there is still unrest and panic as the people look to the dwarves for help because of a promise made by Thorin to share in some of the gold within the mountain. The Woodland Elves, lead by the ruthless Thranduil, also have business with the dwarves as there is a collection of jewels he wishes to acquire. But Thorin is in no mind to listen Ashe slowly succumbs to dragon sickness, which clouds his judgement and eats himself up with greed. Bilbo begins to see how this is going to be a tough time as Thranduil declares war along with men on the dwarves for going back on their promise. Plans for war among them are quickly questioned when Gandalf returns after discovering that the spirit of the dark lord Sauron has returned and that an Orc army is heading their way. It is then left to the elves, dwarves and men to decide whether to unite or be divided. They’ll have to make a choice soon as word, thanks to elves Legolas and Tauriel filters through that it isn’t just one army of orcs, but two that are heading to spread darkness across Middle Earth. For Bilbo and the others, it is time to face the ultimate battle of their lives.

What is immediately striking about The Battle of the Five Armies is the efficient running time. Often with last parts of trilogies or Film series, there is a temptation to make things very long-winded and drawn out. Thankfully, Peter Jackson and his stunning direction keep events ticking over nicely and wrap things up with style, not allowing any loose ends or flab to drag the movie down into boredom. On a visual level and an excitement one, The Battle of the Five Armies is the best of the Hobbit movies. The battles are orchestrated with such precision and depth that gives it something else that the other two movies lack, which is a heart. Emotions run very high and the movie alternates between fun, tense and tragic in the space of mere minutes, which is excellent. And thank goodness for the decision to use CGI wisely and not overindulge in it. Set pieces are of a particularly high standard, with special mention to Smaug destroying Laketown and the two battles that form the backbone of the movie. It’s fantasy with a sense of emotion and passion that comes off remarkably well thanks to the wonderful direction and imagery. I liked how the films wrapped up the saga of Middle Earth and helped events come full circle in the end. A thundering Howard Shore score is the perfect sonic companion to the film, peaking with epic scope and emotional heights.

Martin Freeman has really grown into the role of Bilbo and is once again excellent in an understated way. He never overplays his scenes, instead relying on subtlety to show us the brave heart and occasional wrestling with conscience that he must endure. As good as Freeman is, this movie belongs to Richard Armitage. Portraying Thorin as blinded by his sickness and full of tragic greed, he brings out the fact that he is a good king underneath it all and it is really good when he snaps out of his sickness and leads his crew into battle with inspiration. Ian McKellen is reliably wonderful as the powerful and sagacious Gandalf, who knows of the dark tide beginning to turn. Orlando Bloom imbues Legolas with a gracefulness that belies his capacity for battle and stands him in good stead when he takes part. Evangeline Lilly is tough yet very luminous Tauriel, whose heart belongs to Kíli and who can more than handle herself when confronted with the violence unleashed on Middle Earth. I liked how Lee Pace as Thranduil, remote king of the elves expanded upon his character to show why he is so cold and unfeeling towards others. Luke Evans has that every man quality about him that makes him the voice of the people portraying the proud Bard, while Aidan Turner is touching as the stout-hearted dwarf Kíli. Dean O’Gorman and Ken Stott flesh out the parts of two of the more prominent members of Thorin’s company. Benedict Cumberbatch utilizes his commanding voice to give life to the fierce and very dangerous Smaug, whose opening attack on Laketown is a killer set piece. Some comic relief comes from Billy Connolly as Dáin,Thorin’s irascible cousin who comes to his aid in the epic battle sweeping the lands. Cameos come from Hugo Weaving, Christopher Lee, Ian Holm and Cate Blanchett and suffice to say, they’re all very good as characters we are familiar with within the landscapes of the movies. Plus they all take part in an exhilarating conflict with the forces of Sauron which is a very good part of the movie.

With emotional heft and magical prowess, The Battle of the Five Armies is a well crafted last entry to the saga that is wholly satisfying from beginning to end.

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

Tags

2010's, Aidan Turner, Benedict Cumberbatch, Dean O'Gorman, Evangeline Lilly, Fantasy, Ian McKellen, James Nesbitt, Ken Stott, Lee Pace, Luke Evans, Martin Freeman, Orlando Bloom, Peter Jackson, Richard Armitage, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

Film Title

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

Director

Peter Jackson

Starring

• Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins
• Ian McKellen as Gandalf
• Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield
• Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug
• Evangeline Lilly as Tauriel
• Luke Evans as Bard
• James Nesbitt as Bofur
• Ken Stott as Balin
• Aidan Turner as Kíli
• Dean O’Gorman as Fíli
• Lee Pace as Thranduil
• Orlando Bloom as Legolas

The Desolation of Smaug presents the second entry into the Hobbit trilogy and it emerges as a much more confident and enjoyable film than An Unexpected Journey thanks to some cracking visuals, good cast and a genuine sense of tense excitement running through it. If it is fantasy and adventure you crave, The Desolation of Smaug is the answer.

We catch up with Bilbo, Thorin, Gandalf and the band of dwarves as they flee from by the vicious orcs. They find refuge in the home of a skin changer Beorn, before moving on in their journey to reclaim The Lonely Mountain from fire-breathing dragon Smaug. Gandalf for a while leaves the group as he tries to find out more about a brewing sense of evil elsewhere in Middle Earth. Continuing on, the more confident Bilbo comes to see that the ring he found in the goblin cave may be able to help in some ways but also corrupt in others that he can’t possibly imagine. Coming across the woodland elves, headed by the cold Thranduil and also consisting of his son Legolas and Tauriel, a she elf with a fierce sense of defiance, they are captured and questioned on the nature of their quest. Thranduil offers Thorin a deal, but the vengeful and headstrong dwarf king who resents the elves refuses it. After escaping the woods, the company travel far and wide, encountering various creatures such as enormous spiders, before eventually being smuggled into Lake Town by the mysterious Bard. A growing sense of immense danger begins to linger as they get ever closer to the mountain and the task at hand becomes perilous in every single way as war starts to brew. When they reach the mountain, it is no simple task of reclaiming the kingdom and there is no way that the cunning Smaug is going to let his iron grip of the place go to anyone. Can Bilbo and the dwarves reclaim what is theirs before all hell breaks loose?

Straight off the bat, The Desolation of Smaug has an immediacy that thrusts you into the adventure at hand and flows very well, unlike the predecessor that took a while to get going. Peter Jackson wonderfully constructs this tale of dangerous peril and determined quests to spectacular fashion and meticulous skill. Nervous tension is generated in some thrilling set pieces that really make you jump at times and wonder how the group is going to hack their way out of oncoming trouble. Arresting locations are a plenty, filled with beauty and The pace is well-handled and only drags on the rare occasion, making the film all the more enjoyable as we are swept into a world of fantasy. And thankfully there isn’t an overuse of CGI, which seemed to be the case during the first installment. Out of the effects used to create the creatures of Middle Earth, Smaug is one of the most majestic and technically well designed ones that really lingers in the memory for its visual power. Swathed in gold treasures, massive in movements and enormous in size, he is a dragon you won’t forget. A stirring score from Howard Shore further propels the film into magical enchantment and otherworldly brilliance.

Martin Freeman impresses once more as Bilbo, who has grown into a stronger character than before. I liked the way he portrayed Bilbo’s fascination with the ring and the way he sees that it does have a side to it that is very dark and powerful. He also nails the curiosity and humour of Bilbo very well. Ian McKellen may have had less scree time in this movie, but he still owns the part of Gandalf through his clear professionalism and dedication to the character. Richard Armitage gives Thorin a hotheaded temper, somewhat self-centered goal but also a certain desperation to take back his home that really fleshes out the character of Thorin. Making a huge impact on the film is Benedict Cumberbatch, who supplies the voice for the almighty Smaug. Letting his voice boom and echo, he lends the creature a fear-inducing quality and sense of dark things to come. The beautiful Evangeline Lilly makes her mark on the series portraying the elf Tauriel, who is a dab hand at doing battle with enemies and not one for following the rules of her king. I liked her character and thought that the attraction between her and Kíli was a nice touch, adding depth to both characters and making Aidan Turner’s Kíli even more likable. Luke Evans made for great casting as the mysterious Bard, who knows a lot more about the quest and the history of it that he lets on to the travelling adventurers. James Nesbitt, Ken Stott and Luke O’Gorman continue to shine as the dwarves that stand out of the group. Lee Pace, with his fixed gaze and authoritative demeanor, is excellent as the elf king Thranduil who isn’t really interested in helping anyone and just wants to sit in his ivory tower away from trouble. It was a good touch bringing skilled archer Legolas back and Orlando Bloom is great as he was in the Lord of the Rings movies.

The Desolation of Smaug is a definite step up from An Unexpected Journey and leaves us wanting more and excited for the final chapter.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Tags

2010's, Aidan Turner, Andy Serkis, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, Dean O'Gorman, Elijah Wood, Fantasy, Hugo Weaving, Ian Holm, Ian McKellen, James Nesbitt, Ken Stott, Martin Freeman, Peter Jackson, Richard Armitage, Sylvester McCoy, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Film Title

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Director

Peter Jackson

Starring

• Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins
• Ian McKellen as Gandalf
• Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield
• James Nesbitt as Bofur
• Ken Stott as Balin
• Aidan Turner as Kíli
• Dean O’Gorman as Fíli
• Sylvester McCoy as Radagast
• Cate Blanchett as Galadriel
• Hugo Weaving as Elrond
• Andy Serkis as Gollum
• Christopher Lee as Saruman
• Ian Holm as Older Bilbo
• Elijah Wood as Frodo

Peter Jackson takes us back to Middle Earth after directing the hugely successful and critically praised Lord of the Rings trilogy for another adventure. And while it doesn’t quite live up to the sheer majesty of the Lord of the Rings, An Unexpected Journey is still a welcome return to the magical world of fantasy and adventure that takes us back to the beginning to bring the other stories full circle.

Returning to the bucolic Shire region of the vast lands of Middle Earth, we are introduced to a young Bilbo Baggins. He is an organised Hobbit who never wants any trouble to speak of and goes about his life as peacefully as he can. This doesn’t go exactly to plan when the wise wizard Gandalf turns up on his doorstep with an offer of adventure and peril. Gandalf tries to convince Bilbo to help Thorin Oakenshield, a king of the dwarves whose homeland, mainly the Lonely Mountain is inhabited by the fierce dragon Smaug, that closely guards their gold. Along with twelve dwarves for company as well as Gandalf, Thorin plans to reclaim what is his by birth. Bilbo is very reluctant to join this dangerous quest even though Gandalf believes in him, but ultimately changes his mind and travels with the company over Middle Earth. Yet this journey is going to be far from easy with the likes of orcs, wargs, goblins, shadowy figures and the creature Gollum haunting every step of the way as caves, dales and kingdoms come into view. As the journey continues and the band of heroes are further aided by elves(much to the chagrin of Thorin, who resents them for leaving his kingdom to fall when he believes they could have been of aid), Bilbo begins to discover a courage and strength within himself that he never knew was there as the group travels through peril and turmoil.

I’ll start this analysis of the movie with what didn’t work for me as it was in some parts a flawed movie. I’ll be sure to move on to the numerous positives once I’ve spoken of the negatives. Firstly, I found the pace of the film to be an issue, especially with the first half that really took a while to get going. I get that it is an epic film, but for the beginning it felt like a long slog. Thankfully, once the quest was underway, the pace picked up and it started to flow smoothly again. I think this issue of the movie taking a while to get going stems from the decision to split one book into three adaptations and this one being the first. Hopefully, with the next two the story can run smoother. As much as I don’t mind CGI(I mean it’s a fantasy film so it’s got to have some in it), An Unexpected Journey overuses it and it sometimes takes you out of the film, unlike with Lord of the Rings which did use CGI, but made it seamless and not excessive. That’s not to say some of the effects aren’t good,it just feels a bit too much for my liking. And the final negative is that while the ensemble cast is great, when it comes to the dwarves their personalities seem to merge because there is so many of them. Only Thorin and a few others are really given distinct characteristics and things to do.

Moving on, we have the positives of An Unexpected Journey of which there are many. Peter Jackson is back and knows exactly how to capture the attention with his eye for stunning detail. Once more, the locations are out of this world in their glorious splendour, capturing a sense of adventure and expansive mythology that is hard to shake. There’s something very thrilling and comforting about returning to some of the locations and also reinstating many well-known characters that Rings fans will be familiar with, as well as introducing other ones that take on significance as the story goes on. And when An Unexpected Journey hits its stride in terms of the pace, the results are stunning to behold as Bilbo joins the band of dwarves on their dangerous quest. Some astounding set pieces are shown throughout this movie, from the cave of Goblins to the chase from the wargs which are both highlights. Howard Shore, who is one of my favourite composers, contributes a wonderfully exciting and dynamic score that brings a brimming sense of fun and danger.

As the hobbit of the title, Martin Freeman is a joy to watch as Bilbo. Starting out as rigid and not in the least bit interested in adventure, he amusingly and professionally charts Bilbo’s transformation into a spirited member of the team and one with depths he didn’t know were there. The ever impressive Ian McKellen is also on fine form as the extremely wise and mighty wizard Gandalf, returning to the Middle Earth movies. Exuding sagacious behaviour, inspiring confidence and a little twinkle in his eye, McKellen is nothing short of wonderful. I was really pleased with the performance from Richard Armitage as the vengeful dwarf king Thorin. He plays him exceedingly well with the right mix of stubborn pride, anger and ferocity all needed for the character. From the many dwarves involved in the film, James Nesbitt, Ken Stott, Aidan Turner and Dean O’Gorman stand out with their quirky idiosyncrasies and abundance of charm. Sylvester McCoy plays the part of the unusual wizard Radagast, who is at one with nature and takes care of it whenever it is under threat. McCoy imbues the part with a strange sense of humour and eccentric tics that allow him to steal many scenes along the way. Returning once more are Cate Blanchett and Hugo Weaving as the elves Galadriel and Elrond. These two once again bring effortless poise, grace and stunning wisdom to these ethereal beings. The highly talented Andy Serkis also returns as the demented and suffering creature Gollum. With the right blend of believable CGI and the unusual delivery from Serkis, Gollum comes alive once more with frightening intensity and a sense of sheer torment that everyone knows the cause of. Christopher Lee is imperious as ever playing Saruman, who feels that the journey could well be in vain and that it is a foolish undertaking. The two cameos from Ian Holm as older Bilbo and Elijah Wood as Frodo are a very nice touch.

There are flaws along the way, mainly from the slow beginning that stretches the plot a bit thin and an overload of CGI, but The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is a more the welcome return back to a world of magic and wonder. I mean any journey back to the immersive lands of Middle Earth is better than no journey at all, isn’t it?

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Tags

2000's, Andy Serkis, Bernard Hill, Billy Boyd, Cate Blanchett, David Wenham, Dominic Monaghan, Elijah Wood, Epic, Fantasy, Hugo Weaving, Ian McKellen, John Noble, John Rhys-Davies, Karl Urban, Liv Tyler, Miranda Otto, Orlando Bloom, Peter Jackson, Sean Astin, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Viggo Mortensen

Film Title

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Director

Peter Jackson

Starring

• Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins
• Ian McKellen as Gandalf
• Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn
• Sean Astin as Samwise “Sam” Gamgee
• Andy Serkis as Gollum
• John Rhys-Davies as Gimli
• Orlando Bloom as Legolas
• Liv Tyler as Arwen
• Miranda Otto as Éowyn
• Billy Boyd as Pippin
• Dominic Monaghan as Merry
• Bernard Hill as Théoden
• Cate Blanchett as Galadriel
• Hugo Weaving as Elrond
• David Wenham as Faramir
• John Noble as Denethor
• Karl Urban as Éomer

Rounding out my marathon of the Lord of the Rings trilogy is the grand and unbeatable Return of the King. It has been great reviewing these outstanding films and I hope that the other bloggers have enjoyed it as well. Winner of a staggering 11 Oscars, including Best Picture, Peter Jackson once again creates a film of such beautiful and emotional scope. Focusing on Frodo as he reaches Mount Doom, Aragorn’s taking of kingship and earth shattering battles, Return of the King is a fantasy epic of the highest order that is certain to blow you away.

Frodo continues his quest to destroy the ring with Sam and the ever changeable Gollum, whose desire for the ring is growing more dangerous by the day. Day by day, Gollum conspires to drive the two friends apart in order to gain access to the ring. Meanwhile Aragorn claims the throne of Gondor and begins to raise an army of the dead to fight against the forces of Sauron that are quickly taking control over Middle Earth. Aided by friends, the time has come for Aragorn to fight and Frodo to prosper as he nears the end of his quest. Prepare for the epic spectacle of Return of the King, it will most certainly take your breath away.

If I could describe The Return of the King in one word it would be spellbinding. From absolutely stunning locations to fierce battles and the perils of various creatures, Peter Jackson never loses out attention for a single minute. He deservedly won the Best Director Oscar for his awe-inspiring and deft direction. By the end of the film, you feel so close to these characters and feel as if you’ve been on the epic journey with them right until the end. The smart screenplay is mainly the reason for this as the film nears its end, we get to see the impact the ring has on each of the characters within the narrative. As in the other films, the score is an evocative and dramatic listen that soars with emotional dexterity. While watching the film, I really didn’t want it end as it was just so involving for me. Moments in this film will forever be indelible in my mind. Some of these are Arwen’s vision of the future that persuades her to wait for Aragorn and armies rising just before battle as Aragorn, tears in his eyes utters “For Frodo”. As he says these words you understand the loyalty and friendship that is shared and the power of it.

The ensemble cast is a richly talented who have created indelible characters. Elijah Wood continues to impress as the stout-hearted Frodo, who is nearing the end of the journey whilst overcoming many obstacles. Ian McKellen is another highlight as Gandalf, while Viggo Mortensen gives one of the strongest performances as the returned king Aragorn. Sean Astin is still impressive as the good friend Sam, who has helped bring Frodo this far with his own will and determination. The scene of Frodo and Sam comforting one another, their faces dirty, their eyes red from crying but their spirits still strong, is an undeniably moving moment in a trilogy of memorable scenes. Andy Serkis is amazing as the demented Gollum, now almost completely consumed with the power of the ring and poisoning Frodo against those closest. With the power of CGI and Serkis embodying Gollum’s wiry movements to unnatural fashion, Gollum is a memorable masterwork.

Fleshing out the other members fighting with Aragorn are the reliable John Rhys-Davies and Orlando Bloom as Gimli and Legolas. Liv Tyler is moving as Arwen, who has renounced her immortality as a means of staying with her one true love Aragorn. Miranda Otto has an expanded role as Éowyn, here showing the mental and physical strength to fight in battle. Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan are still as plucky as ever as Pippin and Merry. Bernard Hill is very good as the brave King Théoden, while Cate Blanchett radiates ethereal beauty and deep wisdom as the elf Galadriel. Hugo Weaving and David Wenham reappear successfully as Elrond and Faramir. John Noble provides the interesting character of Denethor, a stand in ruler who is weak-willed and snake-like. Karl Urban rounds out the cast as the knight Éomer.

Stunningly mounted, emotionally gripping and all round magical, The Return of the King is all you could ask for in a fantasy movie and more.

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers

Tags

2000's, Andy Serkis, Bernard Hill, Billy Boyd, Brad Dourif, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, David Wenham, Dominic Monaghan, Elijah Wood, Epic, Fantasy, Hugo Weaving, Ian McKellen, John Rhys-Davies, Karl Urban, Liv Tyler, Miranda Otto, Orlando Bloom, Peter Jackson, Sean Astin, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, Viggo Mortensen

Film Title

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers

Director

Peter Jackson

Starring

• Elijah Wood as Frodo
• Ian McKellen as Gandalf
• Sean Astin as Samwise “Sam” Gamgee
• Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn
• Andy Serkis as Gollum
• Liv Tyler as Arwen
• Billy Boyd as Pippin
• Dominic Monaghan as Merry
• Miranda Otto as Éowyn
• Orlando Bloom as Legolas
• David Wenham as Faramir
• John Rhys-Davies as Gimli
• Billy Boyd as Pippin
• Dominic Monaghan as Merry
• Bernard Hill as Théoden
• Cate Blanchett as Galadriel
• Christopher Lee as Saruman
• Hugo Weaving as Elrond
• Karl Urban as Éomer
• Brad Dourif as Gríma Wormtongue

Now for the second entry into my Lord of the Rings marathon. Picking up where Fellowship of the Ring left off, The Two Towers is a superb continuation to this engaging trilogy that balances great characters, mythology and some of the best battle scenes ever put on film. Darker than its predecessor, Two Towers is just as good as the first and introduces us to more engaging characters who populate the lands of Middle Earth. If this doesn’t get you excited for the final concluding entry in the trilogy, I don’t know what will.

With the Fellowship now fractured and Gandalf sacrificing himself in the mines, the various factions that remain continue travelling. In one segment, Frodo and Sam continue the perilous journey to destroy the evil ring and are joined by Gollum, the ring’s former owner whose life was tortured by his desire to the ring and the inability to resist taking it. Gollum knows the way to Mordor, but Sam distrusts him and warns Frodo about what Gollum may do. In another strand; Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas travel to Rohan which is about to come under attack from the forces of Sauron. Along the way, they encounter an old ally. A now reborn and stronger Gandalf who aids them in bringing the king of Rohan,  Théoden out from under the spell cast by Gríma Wormtongue, one of Saruman the dark wizard’s workers. And in the other segment, Merry and Pippin flee after being captured by orcs into the forest where Treebeard, an ent who listens to them and journey’s on. Busting apart the common idea that the middle film of a series is the weakest, The Two Towers contains gorgeous locations, breathtaking scope and the all round magical feeling of a fantasy quest you will never want to leave.

Peter Jackson again fashions a fantasy epic of staggering proportions with this entry. Having three separate story strands could have been a risky move, but in this case it pays off handsomely as we watch not just one journey, but three. This entry also focuses more on Aragorn as a character and his emergence as a skilled warrior who may finally have to reclaim his right to the throne in the future. As is to be expected from an epic like this, the locations are spectacularly captured in long panning shots as mountains, dales and volcanos come into view.You watch scenes like this and really understand the unparalleled power and splendour that Jackson has brought to the screen. Peter Jackson handsomely combines action with an emotionally involving hero’s journey to overcome the forces of evil whilst battling against the many foes along the way. The Battle at Helm’s Deep is in my book one of the best battle sequences recorded on film, the sheer scope and meticulous craft on display is so mesmerizing as Aragorn leads men against the orcs and other forces of darkness.

Once again, the vast ensemble cast delivers, with newer additions adding impact along the way. Elijah Wood successfully continues his role as Frodo, here showing the burden that has been put on him and how he attempts to remain resilient to the dominating force of the ring. Ian McKellen shines as the resurrected Gandalf, who is as wise and powerful as he ever was. The scene when he appears to Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas in a vast array of light is a stunning sight to behold. Sam Astin continues to impress as loyal Sam, in this film it is Sam who really anchors it and functions as the narrative’s heart as we watch his friendship tested but never loses faith in his friend. Viggo Mortensen  is given more of a fleshed out character here, this further adds to the interesting dimensions of his character of Aragorn. He is strong, hopeful and above all a brave character, embodied by Mortensen with outstanding skill.

It is Andy Serkis who makes the biggest impact in the film. His fluid and strange movements combined with amazing CGI create the character of Gollum, the one who once owned the ring that has poisoned his mind forever. Gollum is an interesting character in that sometimes you feel utter revulsion for him, whereas on the other hand he is sympathetic as you see how the powerful ring of the title has shattered his sanity. Liv Tyler continues her luminous portrayal of Arwen, Aragorn’s elf lover who has now left her immortality much to the chagrin of her father. There is a beautiful scene in which Elrond predicts a melancholy for her and Arwen begins to cry. Instead of giving up on her love she replies “There is still hope” in a sincere and emotion filled voice, as the tears run down her pale face. Miranda Otto is beautiful and strong as the king’s niece Éowyn, who falls for Aragorn along the way. David Wenham plays Faramir, brother of the late Boromir, whose path crosses with Frodo’s. Orlando Bloom and John Rhys-Davies are on form as Legolas and Gimli, their characters adding a certain amount of banter to the proceedings.  Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan are as good as before as Pippin and Merry, who evade capture by hiding in the woods. Bernard Hill is suitably imperial as Théoden, the king given his life back by Gandalf after being a zombie for Sauron. In a small but memorable role, Cate Blanchett reappears as the wise Galadriel, who predicts what may happen if the war comes into fruition. Christopher Lee is villainy personified as the fallen Saruman, now heading a war against mankind. Hugo Weaving is stately and wise as the elf lord Elrond, while Karl Urban is a success as the exiled heir and Brad Dourif a slimy presence as a force of evil.

A stunningly mounted second entry into an exciting and emotionally involving saga, The Two Towers is not to be missed by anyone.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

Tags

2000's, Billy Boyd, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, Dominic Monaghan, Elijah Wood, Epic, Fantasy, Hugo Weaving, Ian Holm, Ian McKellen, John Rhys-Davies, Liv Tyler, Orlando Bloom, Peter Jackson, Sean Astin, Sean Bean, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, Viggo Mortensen

Film Title

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

Director

Peter Jackson

Starring

• Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins
• Ian McKellen as Gandalf
• Sean Astin as Samwise “Sam” Gamgee
• Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn
• Liv Tyler as Arwen
• Cate Blanchett as Galadriel
• John Rhys-Davies as Gimli
• Billy Boyd as Pippin
• Dominic Monaghan as Merry
• Christopher Lee as Saruman
• Orlando Bloom as Legolas
• Hugo Weaving as Elrond
• Sean Bean as Boromir
• Ian Holm as Bilbo Baggins

The other day, I was rooting through my DVD collection when I came across The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. It has been an age since I last saw the films and so along with my brother I sat down and watched the films in one go. To say the experience was epic is an understatement. To start my reviews of the trilogy is The Fellowship of the Ring.

Many said it was unfilmable but Peter Jackson sure proved them wrong. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings is the absorbing, stunningly executed and all round epic first entry into the trilogy. Fantasy has rarely looked this amazing and majestic onscreen and I may just run out of adjectives to describe the sheer scope and beauty of the film. Anyway enough of my rambling, onto the review.

Set in the vast lands of Middle Earth, Fellowship follows the tale of Frodo Baggins, a young hobbit living peacefully in the Shire who is entrusted with a dangerous task. His uncle Bilbo is leaving the Shire to live with the elves of Rivendell. He leaves Frodo a ring, yet this is no ordinary ring. It is the ring of power, forged centuries ago by the dark lord Sauron. There were originally other rings forged given to the different races of Middle Earth. Bound in the ring is the power to dominate the other bearers of rings and succumb to the rings dark trappings. Sauron was believed dead but his presence has survived and is now intent on retrieving the ring. Upon hearing of the ring, Bilbo’s old friend, the wise wizard Gandalf instructs Frodo to flee the Shire as the forces of darkness will soon come looking for him. Aiding Frodo is his loyal best friend Sam and two others hobbits named Merry and Pippin. Later he is joined by a mysterious ranger Aragorn who has a claim to a throne, archer and elf Legolas, dwarf Gimli and warrior Boromir. The future of Middle Earth is at peril because of the ring and only by destroying it can the danger it brings be erased. And so Frodo sets off with the others, known as the Fellowship, on a perilous journey to destroy the evil ring before it falls into the wrong hands. Prepare for a handsomely mounted fantasy tale of bravery, kinship and a dangerous quest filled with uncertainty directed with dedication and visual splendour by Peter Jackson.

The first thing to praise in Fellowship is the New Zealand locations that make up the vast lands of Middle Earth. Mountains, woodlands and vast fields appear breathtaking and we as an audience are sucked into the arduous journey that Frodo must take. The intelligent screenplay gives us a thrilling fantasy adventure with characters we can root for and features some amazing fight scenes against the dark forces that terrorise Middle Earth. We become immersed in the various legends that abound and the various people who make up the lands. Also, we get see the friendships of the main characters, embodied by the loyal and sincere Sam who would do anything for his best friend Frodo.

Sonically, Fellowship is a marvel. From the high-pitched screech of the Nazgul, wraith like beings attempting to return the ring to the dark lord to the evocative and splendid score by Howard Shore, it really is amazing to say the least. Special effects are of the highest order, creating menacing beings such as the vicious orcs and a particularly memorable cave troll. The many fight scenes are executed to excellent standards, especially when the Fellowship face the orcs. Fellowship of the Ring is a film of many memorable moments it really is hard to choose just a few to mention. Highlights for me are the chase of Arwen, a beautiful she elf who risks her life to save Frodo from death, by the evil Nazgul through woodlands, the Fellowship battling orcs in a catacomb and the kissing of Frodo’s forehead for good luck by Galadriel, a wise elf of immense power and wisdom.

But the biggest impact on the film is made by the supremely talented cast assembled to flesh out the various beings of this fantasy tale. Heading this is the ideal casting of Elijah Wood as Frodo, the one who the task weighs heavily upon. Wood embodies the initially frightened realisation of his task and later his bravery that will lead him on his way. Ian McKellen is excellent as the wizard Gandalf, showing us the wise man with immense power who is an invaluable ally on the quest. As the loyal, stout-hearted Sam, Sean Astin is perfectly cast as he is one of the driving forces behind Frodo. Without Sam’s wisdom and pluck, Frodo’s journey would not have been as interesting. Viggo Mortensen is suitably heroic as the skilled ranger Aragorn, while Liv Tyler is earnest and beautiful as Arwen, the elf who he has fallen in love with. Their relationship is beautifully observed as we watch the conflicted desires of both as Arwen questions whether to give up her immortality for love, her line ” I would rather share one lifetime with you than face all the Ages of this world alone” is haunting. Cate Blanchett is suitably ethereal and full of intelligence as Galadriel, the presence of her engaging voice in the prologue of the ring’s journey is a stroke of genius.  John Rhys-Davies provides some comic relief as the belligerent dwarf Gimli, further adding to this humour is Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan as the mischievous Pippin and Merry.  Christopher Lee is gleefully evil as the wizard who has turned to the dark side. Orlando Bloom makes for a skilled ally of Legolas, an elf with a talent for archery. Hugo Weaving exudes respectability as Elrond, lord of the elves while Sean Bean makes a deep impression as Boromir. In the small but pivotal role of Bilbo, the one who found the ring, Ian Holm shines.

Crafted with meticulous and faithful detail by Peter Jackson, Fellowship of the Ring is a fantasy film to treasure for its engaging storyline, glorious scenery and its ability to transport us into a world of magic, danger and hope.

X-Men: The Last Stand

Tags

2000's, Aaron Stanford, Action, Anna Paquin, Ben Foster, Brett Ratner, Daniel Cudmore, Ellen Page, Famke Janssen, Fantasy, Halle Berry, Hugh Jackman, Ian McKellen, James Marsden, Kelsey Grammer, Patrick Stewart, Rebecca Romijn, Shawn Ashmore, Vinnie Jones, X-Men: The Last Stand

Film Title

X-Men: The Last Stand

Director

Brett Ratner

Starring

• Hugh Jackman as Logan/Wolverine
• Halle Berry as Ororo Munroe/Storm
• Ian McKellen as Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto
• Patrick Stewart as Professor X
• Famke Janssen as Jean Grey/Phoenix
• Anna Paquin as Marie/Rogue
• Kelsey Grammer as Hank McCoy/Beast
• James Marsden as Scott Summers/Cyclops
• Rebecca Romijn as Mystique
• Shawn Ashmore as Bobby Drake/Iceman
• Aaron Stanford as John Allerdyce/Pyro
• Ellen Page as Kitty Pryde/Shadowcat
• Vinnie Jones as Cain Marko/Juggernaut
• Daniel Cudmore as Peter Rasputin/Colossus
• Ben Foster as Warren Worthington III/Angel

Taking over the reins of directing from Bryan Singer, Brett Ratner directs this third entry in the X-Men series. X-Men: The Last Stand is by the weakest in the series, though it still delivers in some departments. It may focus too much on the action side of the film rather than the deep themes of Singer’s ventures, but many members of the cast more than make up for this quibble in this flawed but still watchable entry into the series.

When a pharmaceutical company called Worthington Labs announces it has developed a cure for mutants that will permanently erase their powers, anarchy and much discussion ensues.  Professor X still speaks of tolerance between mutants and humans, but there are many who disagree. Magneto on the other hand takes it upon himself to wage a war against humans after hearing of the cure. He raises an army of renegade mutants to assist him in his quest. The X-Men become involved in this ultimate power struggle, but find that a former ally has awakened. Jean Grey, who sacrificed her life  for the team in the last movie, has risen from her watery grave, but not as she once was. Professor X informs Wolverine and Storm that he visited Jean as a child and saw the immense power she had and how it could be used for evil. He formed boundaries for Jean to suppress this, thereby creating a split personality known as ‘The Phoenix’, which has now almost completely taken over Jean. With anger rising and the threat of war brewing, the X-Men, including new recruits Kitty Pryde/Shadowcat and Peter Rasputin/Colossus, attempt to stop this impending war before tragedy strikes as Jean joins forces with Magneto’s army. With the battle lines drawn, who will prosper and who will perish as war draws closer?

Whilst the first two movies balanced action with the deep dramatic themes, The Last Stand stumbles on this front by focusing on the action too much. Yes, the plot revolving around the cure is interesting in the beginning, but it soon becomes just another strand of the story. Ratner tries his best, but can’t quite keep the multiple storylines all ticking over with the skill of Bryan Singer. Some of the action scenes are very good by the way, but not backed up enough in terms of plot development.

On the more positive side, many of the cast members turn in great performances. Hugh Jackman still rocks as Wolverine, we also get to see him grapple with his personal feelings as he comes to realise that Jean, the woman he has always loved, is no longer the same. Halle Berry turns in her best performance of the series as we witness Storm’s anger at the supposed cure, her fierce and protective side emerges as a result of this and she most certainly kicks ass when she needs to. Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart are suitably stately as the former allies, who still respect one another despite their differences on the subject of mutant acceptance. Famke Janssen is terrifyingly good as the resurrected Jean, her many instances of her personality and powers switching is exceptionally done. Anna Paquin is unfortunately not given a big role and is only really there as one of the only mutants who wants to remove their power. Kelsey Grammer is great as Hank/Beast, a former student of Professor X who resembles a blue creature ,is super strong  and also has a place within the political realm of mutants. Grammer adds some much-needed humour into the narrative with his role. On the woefully underused side are James Marsden and Rebecca Romijn as Cyclops and Mystique; Cyclops only functions to meet an ambiguous fate at the hands of Jean and Mystique is only used as a mutant who sacrifices her powers and pays the consequences for her actions. Shawn Ashmore and Aaron Stanford continue to impress as opposing forces Iceman and Pyro who used to be good friends. Their battle with each other adds a personal quality to the story. Ellen Page is suitably spunky and quick-witted as Kitty, who has the ability to phase through objects. Vinnie Jones contributes his usual tough guy act as the hulking Juggernaut. Daniel Cudmore plays the super strong metal man Colossus who comes in pretty handy in combat and Ben Foster is great as Angel, a young man who has a giant wingspan and whose father created the cure.

Many of the effects are very well done and the score is evocative as well as thrilling. All of this adds up to a flawed but still watchable experience.

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.