So... I guess the first thing I should say is my it has been a long time! Once again I failed to keep up my New Year's resolution, and I think it's safe to say that those Orry-Kelly reviews will likely never be written.
But that doesn't mean I haven't been busy watching other films. I've been doing a challenge called 52 Films by Women, where basically once a week you're meant to watch at least one film directed/written/produced by women. For more info, you can check out this link.
So far, I've seen 26 films, so I'm a little behind. I have seen some truly terrific films through this challenge, and some not so great ones. But anyway, here are the first 26 films by women that I have seen this year, ranked from worst to best. Enjoy!
26. Breaking the Girls (2012) dir. Jamie Babbit
25. The Wedding Party (2010) dir. Amanda Jane
24. The Quiet (2005) dir. Jamie Babbit
23. The Falling (2014) dir. Carol Morley
22. John Tucker Must Die (2006) dir. Betty Thomas
21. The Mirror Has Two Faces (1996) dir. Barbra Streisand
20. The Slumber Party Massacre (1982) dir. Amy Holden Jones
19. Looking for Grace (2015) dir. Sue Brooks
18. Corrina Corrina (1994) dir. Jessie Nelson
17. Take the Lead (2006) dir. Liz Friedlander
16. The To Do List (2013) dir. Maggie Carey
15. Women He's Undressed (2015) dir. Gillian Armstrong
14. Beautiful (2000) dir. Sally Field
13. Money Monster (2016) dir. Jodie Foster
12. Every Secret Thing (2014) dir. Amy Berg
11. Desperately Seeking Susan (1985) dir. Susan Seidelman
10. Eve's Bayou (1997) dir. Kasi Lemmons
9. Graceful Girls (2015) dir. Olivia Peniston-Bird
8. Julie and Julia (2009) dir. Nora Ephron
7. The Bling Ring (2013) dir. Sofia Coppola
6. Near Dark (1987) dir. Kathryn Bigelow
5. Clueless (1995) dir. Amy Heckerling
4. Awakenings (1990) dir. Penny Marshall
3. Since Otar Left (2003) dir. Julie Bertuccelli
2. Love Serenade (1996) dir. Shirley Barrett
1. The Hedgehog (2009) dir. Mona Achache
As you can see, most of them are from the US. In the second half of the year I hope to expand to the other parts of the world. But I'm definitely enjoying myself so far. I'll be seeing a couple of female directed films at MIFF this year, and I've discovered that my library is better stocked in films than I thought.
I hope this was interesting. Sorry it's quite literally a list. If you have any suggestions for films I should watch, please let me know. Well, hopefully I'll get another blog out sooner than last time, but no promises. You know I always break them. Until next time, readers.
Saturday 16 July 2016
Saturday 13 February 2016
Top 10 Favourite Vampire Movies
So, I was watching Near Dark the other night, and I decided to make a list of my favourite vampire movies. At least, the ones I've seen so far. There are about ten hundred or so more films that I eventually want to see, but I thought it would be interesting to figure out my favourites at the moment. I would have watched them for this list, but honestly most of them are foreign art-house films (of course) and I really hard to get a hold of. So, this will just have to do for now!
Please keep in mind that these are favourites. The films on this list are ones that I enjoy watching for whatever reason, but it doesn't mean that everyone will like them or even that they would be considered good. But when it comes to favourites, I don't care about a film being 'good'. I care more about a film entertaining me, which might explain some of the weird choices on this list. Anyway, let's get on with it! Oh, and spoilers! Potentially!
10. The Twins Effect
Remember when films that featured pop stars weren't vapid documentaries, and they actually had plots and ridiculous characters? Those were the days! This film is just pure silly fun, featuring Cantopop duo Twins as a pair of vampire hunting bad-asses who have to stop an evil vampire duke from taking over the world! Kung-fu plus vampires, I mean what more could you want. The fact that Jackie Chan has a cameo makes this even more awesome. There are some really fun sequences in this film, including a part where a vampire tries to steal blood from a hospital and a really good opening fight scene. If you're up for a bit of fun, and don't mind a film that's light on the vampire lore but heavy on the comedy then I would definitely recommend this!
9. From Dusk till Dawn
This film is just crazy. Like, bat-shit insane! It starts off like a typical Tarantino crime film, but then suddenly, vampires! Because why not. A lot of people get turned off by the sudden turn this film takes, but I really like it! It's so out there that I can't really hate it. I also really like the gore effects, and the transformations as well, it's not your typical blood and guts. More like mucus and vomit. The first part of film is also a really slick crime thriller with Tarantino's trademark dialogue, and his performance in the film isn't as terrible as he usually is. It also helps that Harvey Keitel, George Clooney, and Juliette Lewis each give excellent performances. A cult favourite for a reason, it's one that I like to watch every now and then for fun.
8. Vamps
This film does a lot of things right that people just don't realise. Two awesome female characters played excellently by Alicia Silverstone and Krysten Ritter, vampires who have to deal with time passing while they stay the same and how they deal with that existential crisis, really hilarious moments that incorporate vampire lore, Sigourney Weaver chewy the scenery with such deliciousness! Despite what the trailers tell you, the film is not about two shallow party girl vampires, it's actually about how vampires have to deal with the modern world and all the problems they face. It's surprisingly deep, for a horror comedy and if anyone has written it off I would encourage you to give it a proper look! The jokes are funny, the vampire lore is strong, and the characters are excellent!
7. Night Watch
I was a little hesitant to put this on the list, since it's not entirely about vampires. But they do play an important role in the plot of the film, and the filmmakers do some interesting things with the vampire lore. Now, if you've seen Night Watch, then you know how complicated a film it is and I don't think that I have enough time to go into detail. Basically, the Night Watch are the good guys and they have to make sure that malevolent beings don't disrupt the truce between good and evil. Vampires include those beings. There are some really cool weapons used against the vampires, like a flash light that uses UV light to shine in their faces, and they use blood to find where the vampires are. And the vampires themselves are really interesting, they break like porcelain when they are defeated, and they have these really cool systems in place to find and store blood. While it's not an entire film about vampires, it is definitely one to watch for a different take on vampires.
6. Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter
Yes, I know. This is a major CGI fest, that has a really silly premise. But that's only one way of looking at it. I prefer to look at it as B movie blockbuster that managed to get a mainstream release, with some awesome set pieces, a premise it takes just seriously enough with actors whose tongues are firmly in their cheeks. And it has Rufus Sewell as the villain. How was I not going to love this film! I have done a full blog post about this, but basically, I think this is a really underrated film. People didn't respond well to it because they were expecting campy, and instead got action! I mean, yes the CGI is a little intrusive, but not so much that it impinges on my enjoyment. I just love how such a silly film takes itself so seriously yet still turns out fun and entertaining!
5. Brides of Dracula
This wouldn't be a list about vampires without at least one Hammer film on it! This is the first Hammer movie I ever saw, and consequently the first film I saw with Peter Cushing as Van Helsing. So it holds a very special place in my heart. Peter Cushing is such a bad-ass in this, that it kinda makes up for the lacklustre Dracula replacement. I do like how the film starts, and I love the main female character, Marianne Danielle (Yvonne Monlaur). It's a film I watch when I want the opulent atmosphere and fantastical sets, that may not be historically accurate but they do look amazing! I have seen more Hammer films, some good, some not so good, but this will always be one of my favourite vampire films from Hammer, even though Christopher Lee sadly isn't in it.
4. Only Lovers Left Alive
Again, another film that deals with how vampires deal with the modern world, and how they use modern technology to survive and entertain themselves. But instead of finding any joy in what they do, these vampires are instead becoming apathetic at how humanity has changed, and how the present might not be as satisfying as the past. At least, that's what it means to me. This is also the first time Tom Hiddleston has really impressed me, maybe it's because he's starring with such acting royalty as Tilda Swinton as his lover and John Hurt as a vampiric Christopher Marlowe. What is also impressive is the fact that I don't think the word vampire is actually said once during the film, which is quite a feat. The music is also excellent, and one of the few soundtracks that I listen to frequently by itself. A little more arty yes, but an excellent commentary on how isolated vampires have to become in order to survive, and how the outside world is viewed from their perspective.
3. Fright Night (both versions)
And now we're back to good old horror comedy! Fright Night is one of those films from the 80s that mixes together the perfect amount of cheese and actual horror. It's a good premise (what would happen if a vampire moved next door?) and in the original 80s version it plays out a little more unexpectedly than what you would first imagine. Our hero, Charlie (William Ragsdale) isn't a popular jock who gets his friends together to defeat the bad guy. He's a nerd who no one believes, and the only help he does get is from an Elvira type TV presenter played hilariously by Roddy McDowall. I still find it surprising how early on we find out that Jerry (Chris Sarandon) is a vampire, but it does make a nice change from the typical "are they/aren't they" story line. Things are changed to be a little more predictable in the remake, but I'm kinda glad about that. It's nice to see that they did decide to change things, like the setting, and the swapping Charlie with Ed a little bit, rather than just rehashing the original. Both films have their silly moments, and both films have their darker moments. And believe me, both of them make excellent films to watch late at night surrounded by friends!
2. The Lost Boys
Hands down, one of my favourite Halloween films of all time! I always try and watch this during at least some point in October. I dunno, there's something about 80s vampires that I just love! Maybe it's the cheese factor, maybe it's just the ridiculous fashion. The Lost Boys again is able to blend comedy and horror together really well. I also really like the characters, especially Edward Hermann as the most unlikely vampire leader. Kiefer Sutherland is electric in this film, and it's arguably his best role. Jason Patric and Corey Haim are believable as brothers Michael and Sam, and have a really good rapport with each other. Which makes the scenes where Michael tries not to kill Sam when he's hungry really tense. Another good thing about the film is the plot. When I first saw this, after the first ten minutes or so, I had no idea where the film was going to go next. And the ending! One of the greatest end lines of any films! I love it. This is a classic for a reason, if you haven't seen it yet, I would definitely recommend that you do!
1. What We Do in the Shadows
This film gives me everything I could want from a vampire movie. Horror. Check! Comedy. Check! Gore. Check! Awesome characters. Check! Looking at how aging vampires react to the modern world. Check! Analysing the traditional vampire lore and how restrictive it is. Check! A new way to tell a story through the use of mockumentary. Check! A scene with a funny dance. Check! This film is as near to perfect as a film can get. Written and directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, What We Do in the Shadows is one of the most creative horror films to come out in years. It doesn't rely on the usual plot conventions you get in horror films, and instead focuses on character rather than story. That might explain why the mockumentary format works so well for this film. I just love it to pieces! And now that we are done, I might just go and watch it again.
So, there you have it. I know, my film tastes are terrible. But anyway, let me know what your favourite vampire films are! I'm sure I left out a ton of movies that people were expecting, and it's probably because I just haven't seen them yet. Anyway, until next time readers, keep your powder dry.
Please keep in mind that these are favourites. The films on this list are ones that I enjoy watching for whatever reason, but it doesn't mean that everyone will like them or even that they would be considered good. But when it comes to favourites, I don't care about a film being 'good'. I care more about a film entertaining me, which might explain some of the weird choices on this list. Anyway, let's get on with it! Oh, and spoilers! Potentially!
10. The Twins Effect
Remember when films that featured pop stars weren't vapid documentaries, and they actually had plots and ridiculous characters? Those were the days! This film is just pure silly fun, featuring Cantopop duo Twins as a pair of vampire hunting bad-asses who have to stop an evil vampire duke from taking over the world! Kung-fu plus vampires, I mean what more could you want. The fact that Jackie Chan has a cameo makes this even more awesome. There are some really fun sequences in this film, including a part where a vampire tries to steal blood from a hospital and a really good opening fight scene. If you're up for a bit of fun, and don't mind a film that's light on the vampire lore but heavy on the comedy then I would definitely recommend this!
9. From Dusk till Dawn
This film is just crazy. Like, bat-shit insane! It starts off like a typical Tarantino crime film, but then suddenly, vampires! Because why not. A lot of people get turned off by the sudden turn this film takes, but I really like it! It's so out there that I can't really hate it. I also really like the gore effects, and the transformations as well, it's not your typical blood and guts. More like mucus and vomit. The first part of film is also a really slick crime thriller with Tarantino's trademark dialogue, and his performance in the film isn't as terrible as he usually is. It also helps that Harvey Keitel, George Clooney, and Juliette Lewis each give excellent performances. A cult favourite for a reason, it's one that I like to watch every now and then for fun.
8. Vamps
This film does a lot of things right that people just don't realise. Two awesome female characters played excellently by Alicia Silverstone and Krysten Ritter, vampires who have to deal with time passing while they stay the same and how they deal with that existential crisis, really hilarious moments that incorporate vampire lore, Sigourney Weaver chewy the scenery with such deliciousness! Despite what the trailers tell you, the film is not about two shallow party girl vampires, it's actually about how vampires have to deal with the modern world and all the problems they face. It's surprisingly deep, for a horror comedy and if anyone has written it off I would encourage you to give it a proper look! The jokes are funny, the vampire lore is strong, and the characters are excellent!
7. Night Watch
I was a little hesitant to put this on the list, since it's not entirely about vampires. But they do play an important role in the plot of the film, and the filmmakers do some interesting things with the vampire lore. Now, if you've seen Night Watch, then you know how complicated a film it is and I don't think that I have enough time to go into detail. Basically, the Night Watch are the good guys and they have to make sure that malevolent beings don't disrupt the truce between good and evil. Vampires include those beings. There are some really cool weapons used against the vampires, like a flash light that uses UV light to shine in their faces, and they use blood to find where the vampires are. And the vampires themselves are really interesting, they break like porcelain when they are defeated, and they have these really cool systems in place to find and store blood. While it's not an entire film about vampires, it is definitely one to watch for a different take on vampires.
6. Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter
Yes, I know. This is a major CGI fest, that has a really silly premise. But that's only one way of looking at it. I prefer to look at it as B movie blockbuster that managed to get a mainstream release, with some awesome set pieces, a premise it takes just seriously enough with actors whose tongues are firmly in their cheeks. And it has Rufus Sewell as the villain. How was I not going to love this film! I have done a full blog post about this, but basically, I think this is a really underrated film. People didn't respond well to it because they were expecting campy, and instead got action! I mean, yes the CGI is a little intrusive, but not so much that it impinges on my enjoyment. I just love how such a silly film takes itself so seriously yet still turns out fun and entertaining!
5. Brides of Dracula
This wouldn't be a list about vampires without at least one Hammer film on it! This is the first Hammer movie I ever saw, and consequently the first film I saw with Peter Cushing as Van Helsing. So it holds a very special place in my heart. Peter Cushing is such a bad-ass in this, that it kinda makes up for the lacklustre Dracula replacement. I do like how the film starts, and I love the main female character, Marianne Danielle (Yvonne Monlaur). It's a film I watch when I want the opulent atmosphere and fantastical sets, that may not be historically accurate but they do look amazing! I have seen more Hammer films, some good, some not so good, but this will always be one of my favourite vampire films from Hammer, even though Christopher Lee sadly isn't in it.
4. Only Lovers Left Alive
Again, another film that deals with how vampires deal with the modern world, and how they use modern technology to survive and entertain themselves. But instead of finding any joy in what they do, these vampires are instead becoming apathetic at how humanity has changed, and how the present might not be as satisfying as the past. At least, that's what it means to me. This is also the first time Tom Hiddleston has really impressed me, maybe it's because he's starring with such acting royalty as Tilda Swinton as his lover and John Hurt as a vampiric Christopher Marlowe. What is also impressive is the fact that I don't think the word vampire is actually said once during the film, which is quite a feat. The music is also excellent, and one of the few soundtracks that I listen to frequently by itself. A little more arty yes, but an excellent commentary on how isolated vampires have to become in order to survive, and how the outside world is viewed from their perspective.
3. Fright Night (both versions)
And now we're back to good old horror comedy! Fright Night is one of those films from the 80s that mixes together the perfect amount of cheese and actual horror. It's a good premise (what would happen if a vampire moved next door?) and in the original 80s version it plays out a little more unexpectedly than what you would first imagine. Our hero, Charlie (William Ragsdale) isn't a popular jock who gets his friends together to defeat the bad guy. He's a nerd who no one believes, and the only help he does get is from an Elvira type TV presenter played hilariously by Roddy McDowall. I still find it surprising how early on we find out that Jerry (Chris Sarandon) is a vampire, but it does make a nice change from the typical "are they/aren't they" story line. Things are changed to be a little more predictable in the remake, but I'm kinda glad about that. It's nice to see that they did decide to change things, like the setting, and the swapping Charlie with Ed a little bit, rather than just rehashing the original. Both films have their silly moments, and both films have their darker moments. And believe me, both of them make excellent films to watch late at night surrounded by friends!
2. The Lost Boys
Hands down, one of my favourite Halloween films of all time! I always try and watch this during at least some point in October. I dunno, there's something about 80s vampires that I just love! Maybe it's the cheese factor, maybe it's just the ridiculous fashion. The Lost Boys again is able to blend comedy and horror together really well. I also really like the characters, especially Edward Hermann as the most unlikely vampire leader. Kiefer Sutherland is electric in this film, and it's arguably his best role. Jason Patric and Corey Haim are believable as brothers Michael and Sam, and have a really good rapport with each other. Which makes the scenes where Michael tries not to kill Sam when he's hungry really tense. Another good thing about the film is the plot. When I first saw this, after the first ten minutes or so, I had no idea where the film was going to go next. And the ending! One of the greatest end lines of any films! I love it. This is a classic for a reason, if you haven't seen it yet, I would definitely recommend that you do!
1. What We Do in the Shadows
This film gives me everything I could want from a vampire movie. Horror. Check! Comedy. Check! Gore. Check! Awesome characters. Check! Looking at how aging vampires react to the modern world. Check! Analysing the traditional vampire lore and how restrictive it is. Check! A new way to tell a story through the use of mockumentary. Check! A scene with a funny dance. Check! This film is as near to perfect as a film can get. Written and directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, What We Do in the Shadows is one of the most creative horror films to come out in years. It doesn't rely on the usual plot conventions you get in horror films, and instead focuses on character rather than story. That might explain why the mockumentary format works so well for this film. I just love it to pieces! And now that we are done, I might just go and watch it again.
So, there you have it. I know, my film tastes are terrible. But anyway, let me know what your favourite vampire films are! I'm sure I left out a ton of movies that people were expecting, and it's probably because I just haven't seen them yet. Anyway, until next time readers, keep your powder dry.
Sunday 7 February 2016
Women He's Undressed
So... we're off to a great start. Sticking to my New Year's resolution is going to be a little tougher than I thought it would be. Still, better late than never. This was one of the first films I saw this year, and is certainly one of the more interesting documentaries I've seen. It using some different techniques to tell the story of Orry-Kelly, possibly Australia's most successful costume designer, working on over 300 films, including Some Like It Hot, Jezebel, Gold Diggers of 1933, and Gypsy. I'm still kinda surprised that he wasn't more well-known before this film came out. Australia has a habit of coveting famous people, and worshiping them as home grown.
The big selling point of this film is that Kelly died with a secret that he had written in his lost memoirs, and that it is only just being disclosed to the world. The problem with this is that if you know anything about Hayes era Hollywood, you can kinda guess what the secret might be. Yep, Orry-Kelly had an affair with his roommate from New York, named Archie Leach, before he moved to Hollywood and became... someone else. I don't want to give it away in case anyone doesn't know who it is. In all honesty, this whole secret thing is the weakest part of the film. It was just too obvious for me, and I thought there were more interesting aspects of Kelly's life that could have been explored more than the film did.
My favourite part of the film was when it actually talked about the films Kelly designed, and his relationship with the actresses he worked with. There were a lot of interviews with people who worked with Kelly and critics of his costumes and films (including Leonard Maltin!). There was a lot of interesting analyses of how his costumes shaped the films. This might be just because I'm a film student and I love close analysis, but I loved those interviews, and I wish there had been more of tha in the documentary. I also wish they had put subtitles at the bottom of the screen to show which clips were from which film, cause I got a little lost here and there.
Another thing that I really liked about the film was how they incorporated reenactments of Kelly's life using passages from his memoir. Actor Darren Gilshenan portrayed Kelly in these segments, and he does a really good job at bringing Kelly's own words to life. It was obviously shot on a sound stage, but that adds to the charm of these moments, and makes the film stand out from other documentaries that use flashback reenactments. It feels like you are getting the backstage story of his life and it added a lot to the film. I also liked the boat motif, and how it seemed to show Kelly adrift in his own life, and not fully knowing where he was going, that was really well done.
The documentary as a whole is a really interesting insight into someone that Australia has forgotten. And I think that after this film, Australia will reclaim Orry-Kelly as one of their own. But that being said, there were a few moments in the film that just seemed a little amateurish. There could have been more overlay, there could have been more insight into his costumes at certain times in his life, and there could have been less focus on his big secret reveal that wasn't very revealing. And why weren't there subtitles! It was a four star film, but there wasn't anything wowing me into giving it five stars.
But I would still very much recommend it! It goes in depth into the life of someone who isn't well known, which makes it stand out. It also presents it's story in an interesting way visually, and while I do have complaints, they are more nitpicks than anything else. So if you are interested, why not try and catch it at Acmi, where I believe it is showing for one more week. Or otherwise, I think it is also out on DVD.
And now, because why not, I present a list of the Orry-Kelly costumed films that I want to watch and review. They won't be coming out all at once, because I do have some other ideas for things I would like to review and lists I would like to make. But anyway, here they are, in no particular order:
- Some Like It Hot
- Gold Diggers of 1935
- Jezebel
- Sunday in New York
- Irma la Douce
- The Bride Came COD
- Now Voyager
- Too Much Too Soon
- The Dolly Sisters
- Gypsy
Friday 29 January 2016
Top 15 Films of 2015 (Part 3)
I know, I know. Late again! I have been sick this week, the sort of sick that makes your brain go fuzzy. But here I am, ready to finally release the last part of my list. If you're still with me, thanks!
Also, this is my 100th blog! Hooray for me! I can't be bothered do a proper celebratory thing, I have other things I want to talk about! Let's get on with it.
5. A Royal Night Out
This was probably the most historically inaccurate film I saw this year! But it more than justified it's inaccuracies with the story that it wanted to tell. A Royal Night Out follows the young princesses Elizabeth and Margaret as they go out to celebrate peace finally coming at the end of WW2. It's a very simple premise, but the film uses this idea to explore not only how the royal family were affected by the war, but also how the British public were affected, and the relationship between the two. It's a good exploration of British wartime mentality, whilst also being a critique on how the war infected every part of British life. And that's saying quite a lot for a film that also acts as a fish out of water comedy for some of Margaret's escapades. It's a fun film, that explores a part of modern history I'm particularly interested in, and while the story may not be even remotely accurate, the emotions that are explored about the end of WW2 certainly are.
4. Mad Max Fury Road
This film was epic! The chase scenes, the fight scenes, the cinematography, the characters! Everything was incredible! It's also so refreshing to see an action film were there are almost an equal amount of male and female roles, and also just to see an action film nominated for Best Picture. The whole internet has also talked about this film pretty much non-stop since this film came out, which is awesome (despite some comments not being that nice). I don't really know what else to add, other than this is just a fun and epic film to watch, and I really hope it wins at the Oscars this year!
3. Spy
I was not impressed when I first saw the trailer for this film, but being a big Miranda Hart fan I went to see it. Maybe it was because I had such low expectations, but this was the funniest film I saw all year. So funny in fact, that I saw it twice! I was so blown away by this film. All the actors were hilarious, and clearly having so much fun. Especially Jason Statham, who was playing up his thug persona, and Rose Byrne, who I've never seen so animated in a film before! Melissa McCarthy and Miranda Hart worked excellently off each other, and I really like that this was also an action film that prominently featured female characters who supported each other throughout the film. It was such a fun film, and my biggest laugh of the year!
2. Carol
This film is so beautiful! Every second of it could be framed and put on your wall. It's so awesome to see a lesbian romance filmed in such a gorgeous way. Of course, it's just nice to see such a mainstream lesbian romance for once. The way the story unfolds is almost flawless, you get swept up immediately in the love affair between Cate Blanchett's and Rooney Mara's characters, and the ending is perfect! We need more films like this. Films that are shot in a beautiful style that harks back to the 50s. Films with characters that break your heart. Films with acting that blow your mind. Films that revolve around romance, but are still intelligent and heart-warming. I saw this film on New Years Eve, and it was the best possible way to bring the new year in!
1. Phoenix
I'm not going to lie. I spent a long time puzzling over what film was going to be number one. But after looking over all of the ones that I'd seen, I realised that it had to be Phoenix. There wasn't another film that managed to homage old Hollywood dramas while also being completely original. No other film managed to have acting that was so naturalistic you didn't even know it was acting. No other film managed to keep me guessing right up until the gut punching ending. It's another film that deals with the immediate aftermath of WW2, but instead set in war torn Berlin. I don't really want to give any information about the plot, since it's better if you go in not knowing what happens, but I will say that it is a film that deals with how people managed to adjust back into some semblance of normal life. It also deals with how concentration camp survivors came back to find that everything they had known was gone. I can't really put into words how good this film was. It builds up slowly and brilliantly to an ending that leaves you reeling and also wanting more. This was the only film of the year where people actually clapped as the end credits started to roll. I hope more people go and see it, including myself again, and I hope they get as much out of it as I did.
I don't really know how to end this. That was 2015 for me in terms of films. Hopefully, when I've stopped being sick, I will be going to see a few more films this year than last year. But we'll see. I think my madcap days of going to see every possible film out have left me at last. Anyway, I hope you enjoy the list and feel free to disagree with me as much as you want. Until next time readers, keep your powder dry!
Also, this is my 100th blog! Hooray for me! I can't be bothered do a proper celebratory thing, I have other things I want to talk about! Let's get on with it.
5. A Royal Night Out
This was probably the most historically inaccurate film I saw this year! But it more than justified it's inaccuracies with the story that it wanted to tell. A Royal Night Out follows the young princesses Elizabeth and Margaret as they go out to celebrate peace finally coming at the end of WW2. It's a very simple premise, but the film uses this idea to explore not only how the royal family were affected by the war, but also how the British public were affected, and the relationship between the two. It's a good exploration of British wartime mentality, whilst also being a critique on how the war infected every part of British life. And that's saying quite a lot for a film that also acts as a fish out of water comedy for some of Margaret's escapades. It's a fun film, that explores a part of modern history I'm particularly interested in, and while the story may not be even remotely accurate, the emotions that are explored about the end of WW2 certainly are.
4. Mad Max Fury Road
This film was epic! The chase scenes, the fight scenes, the cinematography, the characters! Everything was incredible! It's also so refreshing to see an action film were there are almost an equal amount of male and female roles, and also just to see an action film nominated for Best Picture. The whole internet has also talked about this film pretty much non-stop since this film came out, which is awesome (despite some comments not being that nice). I don't really know what else to add, other than this is just a fun and epic film to watch, and I really hope it wins at the Oscars this year!
3. Spy
I was not impressed when I first saw the trailer for this film, but being a big Miranda Hart fan I went to see it. Maybe it was because I had such low expectations, but this was the funniest film I saw all year. So funny in fact, that I saw it twice! I was so blown away by this film. All the actors were hilarious, and clearly having so much fun. Especially Jason Statham, who was playing up his thug persona, and Rose Byrne, who I've never seen so animated in a film before! Melissa McCarthy and Miranda Hart worked excellently off each other, and I really like that this was also an action film that prominently featured female characters who supported each other throughout the film. It was such a fun film, and my biggest laugh of the year!
2. Carol
This film is so beautiful! Every second of it could be framed and put on your wall. It's so awesome to see a lesbian romance filmed in such a gorgeous way. Of course, it's just nice to see such a mainstream lesbian romance for once. The way the story unfolds is almost flawless, you get swept up immediately in the love affair between Cate Blanchett's and Rooney Mara's characters, and the ending is perfect! We need more films like this. Films that are shot in a beautiful style that harks back to the 50s. Films with characters that break your heart. Films with acting that blow your mind. Films that revolve around romance, but are still intelligent and heart-warming. I saw this film on New Years Eve, and it was the best possible way to bring the new year in!
1. Phoenix
I'm not going to lie. I spent a long time puzzling over what film was going to be number one. But after looking over all of the ones that I'd seen, I realised that it had to be Phoenix. There wasn't another film that managed to homage old Hollywood dramas while also being completely original. No other film managed to have acting that was so naturalistic you didn't even know it was acting. No other film managed to keep me guessing right up until the gut punching ending. It's another film that deals with the immediate aftermath of WW2, but instead set in war torn Berlin. I don't really want to give any information about the plot, since it's better if you go in not knowing what happens, but I will say that it is a film that deals with how people managed to adjust back into some semblance of normal life. It also deals with how concentration camp survivors came back to find that everything they had known was gone. I can't really put into words how good this film was. It builds up slowly and brilliantly to an ending that leaves you reeling and also wanting more. This was the only film of the year where people actually clapped as the end credits started to roll. I hope more people go and see it, including myself again, and I hope they get as much out of it as I did.
I don't really know how to end this. That was 2015 for me in terms of films. Hopefully, when I've stopped being sick, I will be going to see a few more films this year than last year. But we'll see. I think my madcap days of going to see every possible film out have left me at last. Anyway, I hope you enjoy the list and feel free to disagree with me as much as you want. Until next time readers, keep your powder dry!
Friday 22 January 2016
Top 15 Films of 2015 (Part 2)
Well, I did have every intention of getting this out earlier, but some personal shit got in the way and I ended up lying on the sofa crying for the past two days. Not that that's important, just thought you should know.
Anyway, let's get on with part 2!
10. Birdman
I think Michael Keaton became one of my favourite actors because of this film. His performance is excellent, as a B-movie actor who is trying to reclaim lost fame. But then everyone is this film is really excellent. Of course, the way it's shot is also interesting, and it helps highlight the backstage politics of the theatre while also seamlessly moving from scene to scene. But what I really like about this film is the many different ways in which it can be read and analysed, and I am so happy that such a strange film became Best Picture at last years Oscar's, especially against such high quality competition.
9. Love & Mercy
I don't think many people saw this film, which is a shame cause it's so good! Even if you're not the biggest fan of the Beach Boys, Love & Mercy is able to tell it's story without alienating it's audience. I also really like the way this film is structured, and how it talks about two periods of great importance in Brian Wilson's life, the creation of the Pet Sounds album in the 60s and his persecution under Eugene Landy in the 80s. Paul Dano and John Cusack both give fantastic performances of a vulnerable man pushed to breaking point, with Paul Giamatti and Elizabeth Banks giving excellent supporting roles. As a biopic for one of musics greatest genius', you can't get any better than this.
8. The Bélier Family
So, fun story. I thought I'd missed this film, because the release date changed from April to Boxing Day down in Australia. I'm so glad I didn't! This is just a fun feel good film, that despite it's flaws, made me laugh and cry. Focusing on a teenage girl who is the only one of her family who isn't deaf, this coming of age story is a little weird in it's premise and a little heavy handed in it's execution, but I just loved it all the same. I think this has a lot to do with Louane Emera as Paula, a girl who is reluctant to leave her family and pursue a career in singing. There's something so awkward and un-Hollywood about her performance that it makes it feel real. And you know what, sometimes you just need a feel good film with some good singing.
7. Amy
Knowing what happened to Amy Winehouse only makes this documentary all the more heartbreaking. Because it could all have been prevented if she had the right support system. This was an interesting documentary, not only in what it told about Winehouse, but also how it was put together. I know that previously the director had made Senna using the same technique of solely using overlay and archival footage while interviews where played, but I haven't seen that. Yet. I also get the criticisms that this film garnered about how it focused on Amy's drug and alcohol abuse rather than her music, but I think that by knowing the extent of that abuse it makes her music now all the more poignant. By showing us what happened to Amy, we better understand her and her music, and how this tragedy came to be.
6. 99 Homes
Another film that is vastly underrated and more people need to see, about a man so desperate to save his family home that he will do anything to make money, even if it means working with the man who evicted him in the first place. I talk a lot about acting in these little synopsis', but I'm gonna stick my head and say right hear that the acting in 99 Homes is the most realistic that you will see all year. The fact that Andrew Garfield was not nominated for an Oscar is criminal. And this coming from someone who hadn't really been impressed by Garfield until seeing this film. Coming from a director who isn't afraid to show how reality destroys the American Dream, 99 Homes will have you on the edge of your seat as you watch our protagonist sink further and further. Michael Shannon is also great, and I am so excited to see him in Elvis and Nixon which will hopefully come out later this year. One of the best underrated films of the last year!
So, this part was kinda dominated by films about music. Believe me, I didn't plan that at all! Anyway, assuming nothing unforeseen happens (again!), I will get the final part out as soon as possible! Until next time readers, keep your powder dry.
Anyway, let's get on with part 2!
10. Birdman
I think Michael Keaton became one of my favourite actors because of this film. His performance is excellent, as a B-movie actor who is trying to reclaim lost fame. But then everyone is this film is really excellent. Of course, the way it's shot is also interesting, and it helps highlight the backstage politics of the theatre while also seamlessly moving from scene to scene. But what I really like about this film is the many different ways in which it can be read and analysed, and I am so happy that such a strange film became Best Picture at last years Oscar's, especially against such high quality competition.
9. Love & Mercy
I don't think many people saw this film, which is a shame cause it's so good! Even if you're not the biggest fan of the Beach Boys, Love & Mercy is able to tell it's story without alienating it's audience. I also really like the way this film is structured, and how it talks about two periods of great importance in Brian Wilson's life, the creation of the Pet Sounds album in the 60s and his persecution under Eugene Landy in the 80s. Paul Dano and John Cusack both give fantastic performances of a vulnerable man pushed to breaking point, with Paul Giamatti and Elizabeth Banks giving excellent supporting roles. As a biopic for one of musics greatest genius', you can't get any better than this.
8. The Bélier Family
So, fun story. I thought I'd missed this film, because the release date changed from April to Boxing Day down in Australia. I'm so glad I didn't! This is just a fun feel good film, that despite it's flaws, made me laugh and cry. Focusing on a teenage girl who is the only one of her family who isn't deaf, this coming of age story is a little weird in it's premise and a little heavy handed in it's execution, but I just loved it all the same. I think this has a lot to do with Louane Emera as Paula, a girl who is reluctant to leave her family and pursue a career in singing. There's something so awkward and un-Hollywood about her performance that it makes it feel real. And you know what, sometimes you just need a feel good film with some good singing.
7. Amy
Knowing what happened to Amy Winehouse only makes this documentary all the more heartbreaking. Because it could all have been prevented if she had the right support system. This was an interesting documentary, not only in what it told about Winehouse, but also how it was put together. I know that previously the director had made Senna using the same technique of solely using overlay and archival footage while interviews where played, but I haven't seen that. Yet. I also get the criticisms that this film garnered about how it focused on Amy's drug and alcohol abuse rather than her music, but I think that by knowing the extent of that abuse it makes her music now all the more poignant. By showing us what happened to Amy, we better understand her and her music, and how this tragedy came to be.
6. 99 Homes
Another film that is vastly underrated and more people need to see, about a man so desperate to save his family home that he will do anything to make money, even if it means working with the man who evicted him in the first place. I talk a lot about acting in these little synopsis', but I'm gonna stick my head and say right hear that the acting in 99 Homes is the most realistic that you will see all year. The fact that Andrew Garfield was not nominated for an Oscar is criminal. And this coming from someone who hadn't really been impressed by Garfield until seeing this film. Coming from a director who isn't afraid to show how reality destroys the American Dream, 99 Homes will have you on the edge of your seat as you watch our protagonist sink further and further. Michael Shannon is also great, and I am so excited to see him in Elvis and Nixon which will hopefully come out later this year. One of the best underrated films of the last year!
So, this part was kinda dominated by films about music. Believe me, I didn't plan that at all! Anyway, assuming nothing unforeseen happens (again!), I will get the final part out as soon as possible! Until next time readers, keep your powder dry.
Tuesday 19 January 2016
Top 15 Films of 2015 (Part 1)
At last! I would've started this list earlier, but I went on a camp this past weekend and I have only just recovered. Never again, I hate tents. Anyway, welcome to part one of my favourite 15 films of last year! This is a very weird list, but I kinda like that. There are some films that people may not have heard of, some massive blockbusters, and some that might just be mediocre to others. But these are the films that have stayed with me throughout 2015, either because I enjoyed watching them so much or because I haven't been able to get them out of my head.
Just a word of warning before we start though. 2015 was a pretty good year for films. When I first started putting this list together, there were over 30 films on it. So, I had to cut back a lot. The films that didn't make the final list are still excellent films, but either I didn't connect with them as I did the actual films on this list, or I didn't think they were as good. But I do want to mention them briefly. So, the films that didn't make this list are The Imitation Game, Still Alice, Mr Holmes, Iris, Miss You Already, Legend, Spectre, and Star Wars: The Force Awakens. All of them excellent films, and I would recommend all of them!
Anyway, on with the list!
15. London Road
This film has haunted me from the moment I saw it. It's beautifully shot, wonderfully acted, and is probably the most original musical in the past five years. This is about the Ipswich Ripper murders from 2006, but instead of being about the murderer or the victims, it instead focuses on the inhabitants of the eponymous street where the killings took place. I think what I really like about this film, though, is the music. The writers interviewed the people of London Road, and then used those interviews to create the songs. And not just the lyrics. The melody was created through the speech patterns and intonations of the residents. Just to put it into perspective, the music in this film is harder to sing than Sondheim. The cast is excellent, led by the wonderful Olivia Colman, and featuring a cameo from Tom Hardy. If you're interested in something a little weird, but still full of character, then I would definitely recommend this. And the music, which is so hard to grasp onto, will somehow stay in your head and rest there, like it has mine.
14. Wild
Again, another film that haunted me but for different reasons. This time, it was mainly for the acting. Reese Witherspoon is one of my favourite actresses, and this is one of her greatest performances. The struggles that she goes through feel so raw, so real, that you really get swept up in the emotional journey that her character, Cheryl Strayed, goes through. The landscape is also beautiful, with excellent cinematography. And the music was also perfect for every scene, and considering I saw this in February last year and can still remember that, that's pretty impressive for a film. Maybe it's just because this reminded me so much of The Way, or maybe it's just because I like films about long treks through the wilderness. For whatever reason, this film has stuck with me, and I cannot wait to watch it again.
13. The Dressmaker
The last 15 minutes of this film are what pushed this onto the list. It is the second best ending of the year. It also helps that I saw this film twice, and found that most of the plot holes I noticed the first time round melted away during the second viewing. I love it when a film can surprise you with every repeated viewing! Kate Winslet is superb, and watching her and Judy Davis act it out on the big screen together was one of the greatest things I saw this year. Do I even need to mention the clothes? Seriously though, I want all the dresses in this film! (well, almost all!) But I think the greatest achievement is how this film twists and turns, you never know what's going to happen next. And I do think that Tilly Dunnage is one of my favourite characters of the year!
12. Kingsman: The Secret Service
Just a word of warning before we start though. 2015 was a pretty good year for films. When I first started putting this list together, there were over 30 films on it. So, I had to cut back a lot. The films that didn't make the final list are still excellent films, but either I didn't connect with them as I did the actual films on this list, or I didn't think they were as good. But I do want to mention them briefly. So, the films that didn't make this list are The Imitation Game, Still Alice, Mr Holmes, Iris, Miss You Already, Legend, Spectre, and Star Wars: The Force Awakens. All of them excellent films, and I would recommend all of them!
Anyway, on with the list!
15. London Road
This film has haunted me from the moment I saw it. It's beautifully shot, wonderfully acted, and is probably the most original musical in the past five years. This is about the Ipswich Ripper murders from 2006, but instead of being about the murderer or the victims, it instead focuses on the inhabitants of the eponymous street where the killings took place. I think what I really like about this film, though, is the music. The writers interviewed the people of London Road, and then used those interviews to create the songs. And not just the lyrics. The melody was created through the speech patterns and intonations of the residents. Just to put it into perspective, the music in this film is harder to sing than Sondheim. The cast is excellent, led by the wonderful Olivia Colman, and featuring a cameo from Tom Hardy. If you're interested in something a little weird, but still full of character, then I would definitely recommend this. And the music, which is so hard to grasp onto, will somehow stay in your head and rest there, like it has mine.
14. Wild
Again, another film that haunted me but for different reasons. This time, it was mainly for the acting. Reese Witherspoon is one of my favourite actresses, and this is one of her greatest performances. The struggles that she goes through feel so raw, so real, that you really get swept up in the emotional journey that her character, Cheryl Strayed, goes through. The landscape is also beautiful, with excellent cinematography. And the music was also perfect for every scene, and considering I saw this in February last year and can still remember that, that's pretty impressive for a film. Maybe it's just because this reminded me so much of The Way, or maybe it's just because I like films about long treks through the wilderness. For whatever reason, this film has stuck with me, and I cannot wait to watch it again.
13. The Dressmaker
The last 15 minutes of this film are what pushed this onto the list. It is the second best ending of the year. It also helps that I saw this film twice, and found that most of the plot holes I noticed the first time round melted away during the second viewing. I love it when a film can surprise you with every repeated viewing! Kate Winslet is superb, and watching her and Judy Davis act it out on the big screen together was one of the greatest things I saw this year. Do I even need to mention the clothes? Seriously though, I want all the dresses in this film! (well, almost all!) But I think the greatest achievement is how this film twists and turns, you never know what's going to happen next. And I do think that Tilly Dunnage is one of my favourite characters of the year!
12. Kingsman: The Secret Service
I swear, action films are getting better! This was another film I saw twice, and again, got better the more times I watched it. But I still have the feeling of complete and utter shock that came when I first saw this film. The plot of this movie is insane, and you never know what is going to get thrown at you next. But if I could sum up this movie in one word, it would be cool. You've got Colin Firth as a gentleman spy. Cool. Samuel L. Jackson as a villain that is not one note. Cool. Kick-ass female characters (and I mean all the female characters, even the Princess). Fucking cool! The fight scenes were so slick, the acting was excellent. And it introduced the world to Taron Egerton, who I think is going to be the new big thing after this, Legend, and Eddie the Eagle which is coming out later this year. This film is not for the faint hearted. It will shock you, but it will also make you laugh, and gasp, and have fun! And what more could ask.
11. Suffragette
Can we take a moment to appreciate that this film was directed, produced, and written by women. And now can we take a moment to be completely enraged that it took until 2015 for their to be a mainstream film about the Suffragette movement! I know there are criticisms against this film, that it focuses on a fictional character, that it is racially insensitive. I get those criticisms and why they are valid, but that didn't affect my enjoyment of this film. It doesn't shy away from the terrible things that happened to the women of the Suffragette movement, from what they endured at home, at work, in the prisons they were sent to. I do think this an important film, that focuses on a specific time and place and people, and the acting is excellent. I think it succeeds in telling its story, and in spreading a message that unfortunately is still very prevalent in today's society. Maybe now we can have a biopic about the Pankhurst's led by Queen Meryl herself!
Wow, that got deep really quickly. Anyway, part one is over. I hope you can join for part two, which I hope to get up either tomorrow or Friday. Until next time, readers, keep your powder dry.
Tuesday 12 January 2016
Worst Films of 2015
I hope that everyone is keeping cool on this ridiculously hot day. I thought that since I'm already annoyed by the heat, today might be a good day to get this list out of the way. And maybe my ranting will give someone a little chuckle while we try to survive this heat wave.
So, I did not see that many films last years mainly due to time constraints and personal shit going on in my life. Because of that, I was pretty selective about what I went to see. That's why there are only four films on this list. But it also means that the films that are on this list really pissed me off. Like these films aren't just bad, these films offended me on a deep personal level! I'll get into more detail with every film, and I'll try not to get too emotional. I'm not making any promises though.
4. Paper Planes
I love Aussie films. I will always try and go see them in the cinemas, because I want to support the Australian Film Industry. This film, though. Nothing could be gained by watching this film that you couldn't get from the trailer. The acting was phoned in from David Wenham and Sam Worthington, the plot was cliched as hell, and I felt nothing while watching it. It was just boring! And when you see so many excellent films, during a year, being boring is the worst thing you could be.
3. Pan
So, I did do a full review of this film where I said that I was undecided about whether or not I thought this film was good. I guess you can figure out how I made my mind up. If you want to know about my thoughts, then you can read my review here. But the reason it ended up on this list is because after thinking about it, I feel like this film just has no respect for the source material. And this is coming from someone who will defend the Tim Burton Alice in Wonderland and the Maleficent movie. This film was just confused, in the worst way possible. I haven't even begun to write about the weirdly racist casting that happened, and it hurts my mind to even think about it. At least Tim Burton was just a little too enthusiastic in his adaptation!
2. Pitch Perfect 2
Dear Hollywood. When you create a musical comedy and want to make a sequel, I suggest that you actually put some musical numbers in it. It's also a good idea to not change characters personalities without any real reason, and why would add new characters when there are some that we haven't had the chance to get to know yet? While some people might disagree, it's generally not a good idea to make your villains more interesting and funny than the protagonists, it makes the audience want to root for the bad guys. And speaking of comedy, crude humour is very hard to make universally funny. Maybe you should study up on it before attempting it again. But most of all, Hollywood, you do not create one of the best and most positive plus size character since Tracy Turnblad only to fat shame her within the first five minutes of your shit pile of a sequel!
1. Knight of Cups
I doubt anyone has heard of this film, let alone seen it. Why would I put this indie art-house, Terence Malick film as the worst film I saw this year? Because to me this was the biggest waste of time of the year! After I left the cinema, it felt like I had wasted 2 hours of my life. This film was a boring mess. Things happened seemingly at random, and I can usually get behind that. But the film had this narration that was trying to be deep and meaningful, but none of it sunk in. It just washed over me in blur of boredom. Not even Christian Bale knew what was going on. And you can tell. So, for putting me almost to sleep, and making me wish that I hadn't wasted my time with this messy pile of pretentious waffle.
So, there we are. Not many bad films this year. And if people are wondering why Jupiter Ascending isn't on this list, let's just say it didn't make me as mad as these films did!
So, I did not see that many films last years mainly due to time constraints and personal shit going on in my life. Because of that, I was pretty selective about what I went to see. That's why there are only four films on this list. But it also means that the films that are on this list really pissed me off. Like these films aren't just bad, these films offended me on a deep personal level! I'll get into more detail with every film, and I'll try not to get too emotional. I'm not making any promises though.
4. Paper Planes
I love Aussie films. I will always try and go see them in the cinemas, because I want to support the Australian Film Industry. This film, though. Nothing could be gained by watching this film that you couldn't get from the trailer. The acting was phoned in from David Wenham and Sam Worthington, the plot was cliched as hell, and I felt nothing while watching it. It was just boring! And when you see so many excellent films, during a year, being boring is the worst thing you could be.
3. Pan
So, I did do a full review of this film where I said that I was undecided about whether or not I thought this film was good. I guess you can figure out how I made my mind up. If you want to know about my thoughts, then you can read my review here. But the reason it ended up on this list is because after thinking about it, I feel like this film just has no respect for the source material. And this is coming from someone who will defend the Tim Burton Alice in Wonderland and the Maleficent movie. This film was just confused, in the worst way possible. I haven't even begun to write about the weirdly racist casting that happened, and it hurts my mind to even think about it. At least Tim Burton was just a little too enthusiastic in his adaptation!
2. Pitch Perfect 2
Dear Hollywood. When you create a musical comedy and want to make a sequel, I suggest that you actually put some musical numbers in it. It's also a good idea to not change characters personalities without any real reason, and why would add new characters when there are some that we haven't had the chance to get to know yet? While some people might disagree, it's generally not a good idea to make your villains more interesting and funny than the protagonists, it makes the audience want to root for the bad guys. And speaking of comedy, crude humour is very hard to make universally funny. Maybe you should study up on it before attempting it again. But most of all, Hollywood, you do not create one of the best and most positive plus size character since Tracy Turnblad only to fat shame her within the first five minutes of your shit pile of a sequel!
1. Knight of Cups
I doubt anyone has heard of this film, let alone seen it. Why would I put this indie art-house, Terence Malick film as the worst film I saw this year? Because to me this was the biggest waste of time of the year! After I left the cinema, it felt like I had wasted 2 hours of my life. This film was a boring mess. Things happened seemingly at random, and I can usually get behind that. But the film had this narration that was trying to be deep and meaningful, but none of it sunk in. It just washed over me in blur of boredom. Not even Christian Bale knew what was going on. And you can tell. So, for putting me almost to sleep, and making me wish that I hadn't wasted my time with this messy pile of pretentious waffle.
So, there we are. Not many bad films this year. And if people are wondering why Jupiter Ascending isn't on this list, let's just say it didn't make me as mad as these films did!
Tuesday 5 January 2016
Best Kids Films of 2015
2015 was an excellent year for children's/family films. Almost all of the ones that I saw were excellent in one way or another. A lot of the time I find that a lot more effort is put into big blockbuster kids film than adult films, and I thought I would start this month of lists by talking about some of my favourite kids films that came out last year!
I know in my previous blog I said that there would be five films on this books, but there were six films that stood out, so I just thought I'd do six. Anyway, let's begin!
6. Cinderella
This was such a beautiful film! The costumes, the setting, the music. All so pretty! The acting was also pretty good, with Cate Blanchett chewing scenery with gusto and being deliciously evil to Lily James' hopeful innocence. It is really hard to adapt something like Cinderella, given that there had been so many other adaptations that people know and love. But I think the writers came up with something stands up well on its own, while also paying homage to the Disney version of the story as well.
5. Inside Out
I think I admire the idea of this film better than the execution. There are some problems with the pacing and plot, but I can overlook them for what this film is trying to do. This film is telling children that it's okay to be sad, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed by change. And I think that makes this the most admirable film to come out this year. I also really like the characters, especially Sadness, and I really like how imaginative the world in Riley's head was. There was a lot of thought put into this film, and it shows. The animation is also so beautiful, making it one of Pixar's best films to date.
4. Bill
Horrible Histories does Shakespeare. Does anything else need to be said? This film is just pure fun, from start to finish! The plot follows young Bill (Matthew Baynton) as he tries to make it big in first Stratford-upon-Avon and then London. It also follows the attempts of Philip II of Spain (Ben Willbond) to assassinate Queen Elizabeth (Helen McCrory) and take over the English throne. So much silly stuff is in this film, it's ridiculous. The cast of the Horrible Histories TV show do an excellent job of adapting their humour to a feature length story, and Helen McCrory as Queen Elizabeth is brilliantly batty! It's also the only film about Shakespeare I've seen that actually has Anne Hathaway as a character, which is awesome and needs to happen more.
3. Oddball
One of he best reviews I read for this film said that the only thing bad about it was that there was too much Shane Jacobson and not enough of the cute dog and penguins. I almost agree, but then again, everyone could use more penguins in their life. I adore this film, because you can tell while watching it that the subject matter was very close to the filmmakers heart. We haven't had a really good animal movie in a long time, and this more than makes up for it. Again, there is some excellent acting from some familiar Aussie faces, like Sarah Snook, Deborah Mailman, and Frank Woodley. Alan Tudyk is exceptional, like always, and the story is simple, but heartfelt. A lot of love went into this film, and you can feel it in every scene.
2. The Book of Life
An animated children's film about the Day of the Dead festival. Why has this not happened before? I love the animation of this film where everyone looks like puppets. I love the music, that includes new songs from Us the Duo and Radiohead covers. I love the plot and how it makes fun of stereotypical kids films tropes, I love the characters and how they feel like real people who make mistakes all the time. I just love this film to death. This film doesn't talk down to kids about deep subject matters, and it isn't afraid to show that sometimes you have to work hard and stick to your own instincts if you want to be a hero. I hope more people see this film, and more people love it as much as I do.
1. Shaun the Sheep Movie
So, when I first heard that this film was coming out, I was a little skeptical. I mean, it's a film based on a five minute TV series, that was a spin off of the original Wallace and Gromit short films. I thought that this was going to be mediocre at best. I was wrong. One of the things I was worried about was whether or not the animals were going to speak and spoil all the humour of the TV series. They didn't speak. In fact, no one really spoke in this film. It's pretty much a silent film, which is really brave in this day and age where exposition rules Hollywood films with an iron fist. I was also scared the jokes were going to get old really quickly, but they didn't. The jokes moved with the plot, and nothing really felt forced or awkward. This film is exceptional. The animation is awesome, the music is really good. The plot, while simple, makes sense in this world. If you haven't seen this film, give it a chance. You might just love it as much as I did.
So, that's the first of the lists done. I'll probably be getting up the worst films list by next week at the latest. I'm still working out the order for my best films list. This year is actually quite hard to rank, and I've already had to leave off a couple of the more popular films that people are expecting. But I'll talk more about that when I finally come to putting the list up.
As always, thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed this little list, I definitely enjoyed putting it together. Until next time, readers.
I know in my previous blog I said that there would be five films on this books, but there were six films that stood out, so I just thought I'd do six. Anyway, let's begin!
6. Cinderella
This was such a beautiful film! The costumes, the setting, the music. All so pretty! The acting was also pretty good, with Cate Blanchett chewing scenery with gusto and being deliciously evil to Lily James' hopeful innocence. It is really hard to adapt something like Cinderella, given that there had been so many other adaptations that people know and love. But I think the writers came up with something stands up well on its own, while also paying homage to the Disney version of the story as well.
5. Inside Out
I think I admire the idea of this film better than the execution. There are some problems with the pacing and plot, but I can overlook them for what this film is trying to do. This film is telling children that it's okay to be sad, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed by change. And I think that makes this the most admirable film to come out this year. I also really like the characters, especially Sadness, and I really like how imaginative the world in Riley's head was. There was a lot of thought put into this film, and it shows. The animation is also so beautiful, making it one of Pixar's best films to date.
4. Bill
Horrible Histories does Shakespeare. Does anything else need to be said? This film is just pure fun, from start to finish! The plot follows young Bill (Matthew Baynton) as he tries to make it big in first Stratford-upon-Avon and then London. It also follows the attempts of Philip II of Spain (Ben Willbond) to assassinate Queen Elizabeth (Helen McCrory) and take over the English throne. So much silly stuff is in this film, it's ridiculous. The cast of the Horrible Histories TV show do an excellent job of adapting their humour to a feature length story, and Helen McCrory as Queen Elizabeth is brilliantly batty! It's also the only film about Shakespeare I've seen that actually has Anne Hathaway as a character, which is awesome and needs to happen more.
3. Oddball
One of he best reviews I read for this film said that the only thing bad about it was that there was too much Shane Jacobson and not enough of the cute dog and penguins. I almost agree, but then again, everyone could use more penguins in their life. I adore this film, because you can tell while watching it that the subject matter was very close to the filmmakers heart. We haven't had a really good animal movie in a long time, and this more than makes up for it. Again, there is some excellent acting from some familiar Aussie faces, like Sarah Snook, Deborah Mailman, and Frank Woodley. Alan Tudyk is exceptional, like always, and the story is simple, but heartfelt. A lot of love went into this film, and you can feel it in every scene.
2. The Book of Life
An animated children's film about the Day of the Dead festival. Why has this not happened before? I love the animation of this film where everyone looks like puppets. I love the music, that includes new songs from Us the Duo and Radiohead covers. I love the plot and how it makes fun of stereotypical kids films tropes, I love the characters and how they feel like real people who make mistakes all the time. I just love this film to death. This film doesn't talk down to kids about deep subject matters, and it isn't afraid to show that sometimes you have to work hard and stick to your own instincts if you want to be a hero. I hope more people see this film, and more people love it as much as I do.
1. Shaun the Sheep Movie
So, when I first heard that this film was coming out, I was a little skeptical. I mean, it's a film based on a five minute TV series, that was a spin off of the original Wallace and Gromit short films. I thought that this was going to be mediocre at best. I was wrong. One of the things I was worried about was whether or not the animals were going to speak and spoil all the humour of the TV series. They didn't speak. In fact, no one really spoke in this film. It's pretty much a silent film, which is really brave in this day and age where exposition rules Hollywood films with an iron fist. I was also scared the jokes were going to get old really quickly, but they didn't. The jokes moved with the plot, and nothing really felt forced or awkward. This film is exceptional. The animation is awesome, the music is really good. The plot, while simple, makes sense in this world. If you haven't seen this film, give it a chance. You might just love it as much as I did.
So, that's the first of the lists done. I'll probably be getting up the worst films list by next week at the latest. I'm still working out the order for my best films list. This year is actually quite hard to rank, and I've already had to leave off a couple of the more popular films that people are expecting. But I'll talk more about that when I finally come to putting the list up.
As always, thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed this little list, I definitely enjoyed putting it together. Until next time, readers.
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