x+y (2014) film review

Year: 2014
Running Time: 111 minutes
Director: Morgan Matthews
Writer: James Graham
Cast: Asa Butterfield, Sally Hawkins, Rafe Spall, Eddie Marsan, Jo Yang

x + y opens in Australian cinemas on April 9 and is distributed by Pinnacle Films.

x+y is a film that has been needed for a long time with the increasing acknowledgement of social disorders in society, especially among younger people. It is an incredibly moving film as a result of the realistic examination of emotions involved in the relationships, especially that of mother and child. After a terrible accident claims the life of her husband, Julie (Sally Hawkins) is left by herself to raise her son, Nathan (Asa Butterfield). As Nathan struggles with severe social anxiety and the only thing he really understands is the language of mathematics, his mother finds it particularly hard to communicate with her son the way her husband used to and to get him to understand and feel the love for her that she does for him. When Nathan is accepted for the British team at the International Mathematics Olympiad, he travels to Taipei and learns lessons about others and himself that help him to see and understand the world in a way that helps him grow and become more comfortable in the world he lives in.

x+y is an incredibly important film for parents of children who demonstrate the same sort of qualities as Nathan. What sets x+y apart from other films which feature social problems in children and teenagers, is that this film looks at the way relationships are affected as a result of the problem rather than the difficulties of the mentality as a whole. There will be a great number of people out there who will find x+y an incredibly emotional experience as they will find the relationships in it so relatable, particularly that of Nathan and his mother. The struggles that Julie goes through trying to communicate with her son and show how much she loves him are both relatable and heartbreaking for any parent. Yet Nathan's evident inner struggle to try and understand a world that does not understand him is also heartbreaking and there will no doubt be those out there who will be able to relate to his character as well. x+y does not exaggerate Nathan's social awkwardness, nor does it exaggerate the strained relationship between he and his mother and this is what many will appreciate.

Yet it is the ending of the film that will throw many people and to be truthful really isn't highly realistic. However, the last ten minutes of  x+y is more of a representation of coming to an understanding between mother and child and moving forward. Never will one revelation in such a complex situation fix everything and make everything the perceived way it ought be, but a revolution such as the one we see here can bring about change. What takes place at the end of the film between Nathan and his mother is what many in a similar situation will identify with which is finding a middle ground where they both understand each other and communicate in a way which they both feel comfortable with. Whether one is troubled by the unrealistic finale or not, there is no denying that it is a finish that is indeed emotional and moving.

x+y has moments of exquisite cinematography, particularly during Nathan's time in Taipei. The film captures the atmosphere of the bustling Asian city in a way which allows the viewer to immerse themselves in the moment in a big way. The contrast between England and Taipei is wonderfully constructed with sounds and visuals bringing out the best in both worlds.

Asa Butterfield continues to impress as the troubled soul that is Nathan. His performance is completely natural with no exaggeration in a role which could so easily have been over-performed. It is the subtlety of his portrayal that is so powerful. Sally Hawkins also does exceptionally well as mother, Julie. As has been previously pointed out, her character is so incredibly relatable. Her struggle to remain calm as to not upset her son while he is unintentionally upsetting her is so devastatingly real and will move any mother. Butterfield and Hawkins work so well together in the pivotal relationship of the film and in such a unique way as it is the struggle in their bond that makes it so captivating. Rafe Spall is also very good and shows tremendous strength and versatility in his role as Nathan's teacher and mentor, Martin Humpheries.

x+y is a film that has been needed for a long time as it explores the struggle with emotion and communication between a misunderstood child and his parents. It is a film that is extremely moving and those in a similar situation will be so thankful for due to it's understanding of it's characters and their relationships.

8/10

Inherent Vice (2014) film review

Year: 2014
Running Time: 148 minutes
Director: Paul Thomas Anderson
Writers: Thomas Pynchon (novel), Paul Thomas Anderson (screenplay)
Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin, Owen Wilson, Katherne Waterston, Jena Malone, Reese Witherspoon, Joanna Newsom, Eric Roberts, Bencio Del Toro, Maya Rudolph
Inherent Vice is now showing in cinemas everywhere and is distributed in Australia by Roadshow Films.

Based on the novel of the same name by Thomas Pynchon, Inherent Vice is a wonderfully unique and nostalgic journey back to the very early days of the 1970's when Los Angeles was experiencing a change in identity. Larry "Doc" Sportello (Joaquin Phoenix) is a detective living the hippy lifestyle who the officials, including Lt. Det. Christian "Bigfoot" Bjornsen (Josh Brolin) ridicule and his friends rely on. When he is visited by ex-girlfriend, Shasta (Katherine Waterston), he becomes caught up in a web of illegal activities and cover ups in a world where everyone he meets is somehow connected. However, when Shasta goes missing, it all turns personal for Doc.

Paul Thomas Anderson's adaptation of Thomas Pynchon's novel is a fine one. Anyone who has read the book will find that the film mirrors the book in the best of ways and Anderson has overcome the features of the book that may have been problematic in the process of adaption with style. However, the novel "Inherent Vice" is one that has divided opinions which inevitably leads to the film being quite the same way. Many people enjoyed the novel for it's nostalgic and vivid imagery, but Pynchon's writing style and method of storytelling can be troublesome for others. Those who are troubled by the latter will find that the screenplay is much like the book and therefore will not understand the attraction that others feel to it as they will feel that there is too much going on with too many characters. The psychedelic drug fuelled and sexual nature of the film will also take away from the enjoyment of other viewers. Yet with an open mind, Inherent Vice is a lot of fun and rather hilarious. The script is incredibly witty with colourful dialogue and there are plenty of laugh out loud moments.

However, Inherent Vice lacks the thing that one has come to expect from an Anderson film as such and that is the presence of impressive cinematography with amazing visuals. The film is nostalgic and very atmospheric of the times, but the one thing that is missed in the film as opposed to the book is the love felt for the Los Angeles landscape. It feels as though an opportunity is missed in this respect, as Pynchon's book lovingly created these vivid pictures of Doc's home beside the sea. These lingering shots of the featured locations are missed, but the nostalgia is created by the costumes and production design which add to the overall atmosphere of the film. The soundtrack is also completely fitting for the year of 1970 and is unique in the way that it isn't a compilation of over played songs from that era.

While Inherent Vice provides a visually nostalgic imprint of Los Angeles in the year of 1970, it is also a snapshot of the times with a focus on a type of prejudice that was brand new. Throughout the film, the character of Doc is continuously ridiculed and insulted for being a hippy and living the lifestyle associated with being a hippy. The two girls of his life, Penny and Shasta were both once part of the hippy lifestyle, but they have both cleaned themselves up to seem more respectable in society and Penny in particular makes it no secret that she has conformed. This hippy hate in Los Angeles was the doing of Charles Manson and his band of followers known as The Manson Family. When the murders that shook Los Angeles were committed by this group of free spirits under Manson's spell, hippies were no longer seen as the innocent members of society they once were, but as sinister and a mark on society. Of course we see in Inherent Vice that this was not true of all hippies as there is nothing sinister about Doc and the movie does a fine job at demonstrating society's view on this sub-culture at this point in time.

The colourful characters and their wonderful dialogue are brought to life by way of perfect casting and fine performances. Joaquin Phoenix is truly brilliant as Doc Sportello. Phoenix brings a very natural comedic style to the role which is neither forced nor dull and it is a style which is perfect for the character. His character of Doc is incredibly likable and despite how much verbal abuse he receives throughout the film from almost everyone, remains so laid back (whether that be with some support) and harmless. It is a role which one can imagine Phoenix would have had a great deal of fun with as he is a real treat to watch.

Josh Brolin is also tremendously entertaining as tough talking cop, Bigfoot Bjornsen. Brolin's memorable character arguably gets some of the best lines in the film and is truly hilarious. Joanna Newsom, who's character Sortilege acts as narrator, does a wonderful job of holding her own in the film and is the personification of the typical carefree Californian girl of 1970. Benicio Del Toro and Owen Wilson are also very funny and entertaining.

Inherent Vice is not your average comedy and is completely unique. This uniqueness will be too quirky for some, but an open mind will lead to a rather fun experience at the hands of Paul Thomas Anderson.

7/10

The Theory of Everything (2014) film review

Year: 2014
Running Time: 123 minutes
Director: James Marsh
Writers: Jane Hawking (book "Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen"), Anthony McCarten (screenplay)
Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones, David Thewlis, Harry Lloyd, Christian McKay

The Theory of Everything is now showing in cinemas everywhere and is distributed in Australia by Universal Pictures.

The Theory of Everything is a fine, nostalgic piece of cinema which artistically incorporates in the most stylish and intriguing of ways the most important aspects of the life of it's subject, Stephen Hawking. Yet it is Eddie Redmayne's outstanding performance that remains at the forefront of all that is commendable about the film. Based on the memoir "Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen" by Jane Hawking, the film pays tribute to Hawking's (Redmayne) extraordinary achievements in the fields of physics and cosmology while also focusing largely on his marriage to Jane Wilde (Felicity Jones). When Stephen was diagnosed with a rare motor neurone disease and told he had only two years left to live, he and Jane embarked on a type of domestic life which neither had foreseen.

James Marsh's film is a rare form of biopic that reaches a point of equilibrium in it's storytelling, as it balances the story of Stephen Hawking's trials and achievements with that of he and Jane perfectly. Although the screenplay plays out a little slow on screen, it is gripping and moving as it is cleverly crafted and well written.

The film's biopic status can take away from the acknowledgement of an underlying theme which will resonate with many audience members and that is of a marriage progressing into a patient-carer relationship. Despite Stephen's public persona, the Hawking's marriage will no doubt be relatable for those who have experienced the hardships of a relationship like theirs and will prove an extremely emotional experience for them and also for those willing to open their minds as to what it would be like. One can only imagine how difficult it must be to be part of a relationship where one is not physically able to care for themselves and relies on the other to do so for them, and how emotionally, physically and psychologically draining it must be for the latter. This is perfectly represented in the film as one is prompted to understand this dynamic and feels great sympathy for both Stephen and Jane.

Visually, the film continues to pay tribute symbolically to Hawking through it's editing and cinematography. In many of the scenes, there is a visual emphasis on his feet and hands to emphasise his early motor skills and the progression into his ailment. There's also the focus on and close up shots of wheels at the beginning of the film (including the first scene in which Hawking is riding his bicycle) as they became a major part of his life, as well as the wondrous firework scene which can be interpreted to symbolise Hawking's academic theories. The film as a whole is rather nostalgic with wonderful costume and production design perfectly suited to the time period. The musical score by Johann Johannsson is also incredibly beautiful and moving which adds further emotion to Stephen and Jane's relationship.

There are some extraordinary performances in the world of film where it only takes a few minutes to know that this is a performance one will remember for a very long time and Eddie Redmayne's performance is one of those. From the very beginning of The Theory of Everything, Redmayne encompasses everything that Hawking is and has a great deal of character and character development. In what is a role that is extremely physical, he demonstrates tremendous skill by showing intense emotion while his facial expressions and other physical movements are restrained. Even with these restrictions, the chemistry he has throughout the film and the way it develops with Felicity Jones is superb. Jones is also wonderful and plays an extremely strong female character in her role as the wife who adopts a carer's role, but also tries to keep something of herself from before. She gives an extremely well rounded, inspiring and moving performance.

While it can be slightly slow in it's execution, The Theory of Everything is a film which is incredibly strong on reflection. It's main performances are without a doubt two of the strongest of the past year and is a beautiful tribute to an extraordinary human being.

8/10

Wild (2014) film review

 

Year: 2014
Running Time: 115 minutes
Director: Jean-Marc Vallee
Writers: Cheryl Strayed (memoir "Wild: From Lost to Found on The Pacific Crest Trail"), Nick Hornby (screenplay)
Cast: Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Thomas Sadoski, Keene McRae, Gaby Hoffman

Wild is now showing in cinemas everywhere and is distributed in Australia by 20th Century Fox.

Wild is one woman's soul searching journey through the American wilderness that many people will find themselves caring a great deal about due to it's relatability and the emotional connection one establishes with it's protagonist.  Based on the memoir "Wild: From Lost to Found on The Pacific Crest Trail", the film follows Cheryl Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) as she attempts to trek the 1,100 mile Pacific Crest Trail from California's Mexican border to the Canadian border. After her mother's death, Strayed's life spiralled into a self-destructive existence fuelled by dangerous addictions and a loss of self-worth. Her motivation behind her trek is to walk herself back to the person her mother believed she was and by doing so, forgive and make peace with herself.

Wild is the film that anybody who has ever stepped outside their daily life to truly find themselves will be able to relate to. The idea of walking away from life as you know it to find peace with yourself is a very 21st century mode of therapy. A soul searching journey requires us to leave our lives in one place and take ourselves somewhere where we are not effected by the white noise of past and present troubles to work through ourselves and reach a point of inner peace and clarity. While these journeys are relatable and touching, it is also the travel aspect of this mode of soul searching which audiences find so mesmerising. Film has the ability to take people away from the everyday, much like that of a holiday and while one is entertained and moved by Wild, they are also given the opportunity to travel to a lesser filmed and exquisite section of the United States.

Wild has the perfect balance of Cheryl Strayed's past and present which allows one to feel a true connection to the woman on a personal level and as well as a traveller. Flashbacks are used in order to show where Strayed has come from and to give a greater understanding as to why she does need to make her way on the Pacific Crest Trail to become the person her mother knew her to be and the person she is trying to find her way back to. Wild is a one woman film, as Reese Witherspoon as Cheryl Strayed is in every scene, yet there is never a lull as every part of the screenplay contributes in a meaningful way to her self forgiveness and to the audience's understanding.

The film is an absolute visual delight with beautiful cinematography and editing. The way in which the American wilderness is shot produces a calming effect for the audience which makes Strayed's journey feel all the more relatable as one feels the peace of she is coming to experience. It is a wonderful contrast to the hectic and erratic nature of the flashback scenes.

Reese Witherspoon gives her best performance in years as Cheryl Strayed, a woman who went through such a dramatic transformation in the years leading up to her trek that Witherspoon could be credited with playing several different characters in this one film. While she plays the role of Strayed with an incredible amount of conviction and raw emotion, the evidence of how physically demanding and strenuous the role was cannot be overlooked. Even though Witherspoon does not take on the whole trek the way Strayed did, the dramatizing of the events along the trail would be no walk in the park as they are still physically straining. Laura Dern is also brilliant as Strayed's mother, Bobbi. While in life she is clearly her daughter's shining light and inspiration, she is also that to the audience. Her optimism and peace with a world that has been cruel to her is infectious and she is a most lovable character.

While Wild can be confronting and graphic at particular moments throughout the film, it has an unexpected calming effect on it's audience. It does not attempt to over-glorify it's heroine in her journey which makes both Cheryl Strayed and the film extremely natural and relatable.

8/10

American Sniper (2014) film review

Year: 2014
Running Time: 132 minutes
Director: Clint Eastwood
Writers: Chris Kyle, Scott McEwen and Jim DeFelice (book), Jason Hall (screenplay)
Cast: Bradley Cooper, Sienna Miller, Luke Grimes

American Sniper opens in Australian cinemas on January 22 and is distributed by Roadshow Films. Now showing in the United States and United Kingdom.

Almost two years after his death, ex-United States Navy seal, Chris Kyle has been given a heroes tribute in Clint Eastwood's American Sniper. It is a tribute which is somewhat troublesome for individual audience members for varied reasons and although Bradley Cooper and Sienna Miller give fine performances, the film does not succeed in achieving the optimum combined level of captivation and enjoyment. The result is a film that will do very little for those who are unentertained by war films and will unsettle and distress others.

Texan born Navy seal Chris Kyle (Bradley Cooper) is recognised as the deadliest sniper in American history with over 160 confirmed kills and many more unconfirmed during his four tours to Iraq. His time as a seal saw him exposed to the evils of the world and his time in duty was as dramatic for him as it was for his wife, Taya (Sienna Miller) waiting for him at home. As distressing and deadly as the war is, Kyle finds himself not mentally able to leave it even when he is at home and safe with his family.

With American Sniper, Clint Eastwood has made a rather patriotic film about the man the Navy tagged "Legend", which like many biopics has been amplified for dramatic effect. It is a film which is problematic for various reasons and different people will relate to a different reason as to why they did not completely take to American Sniper. Firstly, the film wastes no time in establishing that one of it's motives is to create an incredibly tense atmosphere which will no doubt shock, unsettle and distress many audience members. The majority of the scenes which are used to demonstrate the evil and terrors of war are extremely confronting and often quite graphic, yet they are also not historically accurate and included in the film purely for dramatic effect and shock value. The problem with this is that it is not a welcomed suspense that is created and makes for an uncomfortable experience and considering these events (such as the first scene and The Butcher torture scenes) are not completely factual, there is no point for this.

What American Sniper lacks is a firm sense of balance. The film covers both Kyle's life on the battlefield and at home with his family so there is an understanding that Eastwood is trying to make a film about war that doesn't discriminate against those who are not typically fans of war films. However, the scenes in the Kyle household are not strong enough nor do they have enough time donated to them to ensure this. The scenes in Iraq are very well made with some incredible location shots and brilliant sound editing, but no matter how strong and tense they may be, do not entertain those who do not admire war films. Yet for those who do admire war films, it will almost feel as though the scenes in the United States take away from the action.

This all being said, one can still understand what the film is trying to do and say. This may be a biographical film about Chris Kyle, but it wants to be a film which any soldier and their family can relate to. As is shown with Kyle, the war doesn't end for the participant and their family when they return home. The horrors they have seen stay with them long after they have left and affect their everyday life. Many find the only way they can combat this torture is to go back on tour, much to the dismay of their families.  A husband going to war is a battle for any army wife, as it is a time of emotional torture filled with constant anxiety. Eastwood is trying to make American Sniper as relatable as possible for families who are directly effected by war and show that although Chris Kyle was tagged a hero and legend, his battles away from Iraq are much the same as anybody else's.

Bradley Cooper gives a flawless performance as the late Chris Kyle. In a performance which is also physically demanding, Cooper brings an incredibly human quality to the well known naval figure. He allows people to see his character as a human being who was not as cold-hearted as his occupation may suggest, but one that was emotionally and mentally effected by him actions. Cooper's performance is strong, controlled and quite wonderful. Sienna Miller is also very good and gives perhaps the best performance of her career thus far. Her Taya could be any army wife and the on screen chemistry between her and Cooper is perfect.

American Sniper is strong minded as it knows exactly what it is trying to achieve, yet is not executed strongly enough to achieve this. The film will strike a cord with any family member who has been personally effected by war, but is not a particularly enjoyable experience for those who cannot relate.

6/10

Into The Woods (2014) film review

Year: 2014
Running Time: 125 minutes
Director: Rob Marshall
Writers: Stephen Sondheim (musical), James Lapine (musical and screenplay)
Cast: Emily Blunt, James Corden, Anna Kendrick, Meryl Streep, Daniel Huttlestone, Lilla Crawford, Christine Baranski, Lucy Punch, Tammy Blanchard, Tracy Ullman, Johnny Depp, Chris Pine, Mackenzie Mauzy, Billy Magnussen

Into The Woods is now showing everywhere and is distributed by Walt Disney Pictures.

Disney's venture Into The Woods may not be the same feel good live action film the world is accustomed to seeing from the studio, but does not fail to entertain audiences, especially those who are fantasy and musical lovers. While Rob Marshall's film is a lot of fun with it's witty and enjoyable screenplay and musical numbers, it is also rather unexpectedly deep and metaphorical. The film does a great deal more than just impressively recreate some of the most loved fairytales and in doing so is pleasantly surprising in numerous ways.

A married couple who live and work in a bakery (Emily Blunt and James Corden) are desperate for children, but are unable to conceive. They are at a loss as to why this is until one day the Witch from next door (Meryl Streep) arrives and tells them that she placed a curse on the household long ago and to break the curse they must bring her all she desires. The baker and his wife set out into the woods to fetch the red cape from Red Riding Hood (Lilla Crawford), the hair as yellow as corn from Rapunzel (Mackenzie Mauzy), the glass slipper from Cinderella (Anna Kendrick) and the cow as white as milk from Jack (Daniel Huttlestone) for the Witch. When all is said and done, it looks as though everyone has had their wish fulfilled and will live happily ever after. However, that is not the way things work out for any of them as they all venture into the woods once again together.

Director Rob Marshall and writer of both screenplay and musical (which he co-wrote with Stephen Sondheim) James Lapine have done a fine job of adapting Into The Woods for the screen. This is what audiences must remember when judging Into The Woods. It is adapted from a stage musical and much of what can be said about the story good or bad relates more to the original musical than the adapted screenplay. One of the aspects of the film which reminds you that this is so is the notion that Into The Woods feels like two different films in one. The only reason it feels like that is because there are two acts in the stage musical and they are of completely different atmospheres. Because of this, people not familiar with the musical will feel as though the film is quite lengthy, which at barely over two hours this is hardly the case. The majority of the screenplay remains true to the original Into The Woods, yet several songs were abandoned for the film (while one song was added to the soundtrack) and the dark atmosphere slightly lifted so to make a more family friendly film.

Into The Woods knows it's target audience well. The film is well suited to lovers of fairytales and musicals, as those who do not appreciate musicals will not enjoy the fact that the majority of the storytelling is told through song. However, Into The Woods is saying a lot more to it's audience than is vocalised through the dialogue and lyrics. The overall theme is the universally acknowledged notion that there is realistically no such thing as a happily ever after. There is such thing as perfect for the time being, but no life or love is forever without some sort of complication. Fairytales install in children unrealistic expectations of the world, which is why the film reminds us that children are listening, so be careful what you tell them. The story takes fairytales to a place they are not traditionally taken to by asking the questions no one asks of them. Why did Cinderella really run from the man she loved? Was Rapunzel ever troubled by losing the woman who raised her? Is Prince Charming really the man he makes every one believe he is, or is he really just charming? The title of Into The Woods is literal, but also metaphorical as walking through life can be like walking through the woods in its unpredictability and terror.

The mash-up of the fairytales is very well done, but some stories are given a lot more love and attention than others. In particular the Rapunzel storyline doesn't have a great deal to offer and is almost non-existent in the second half of the film. However, it is understandable that at least one of the stories within the film was going to be limited as the film's running time needed to be kept in mind, especially considering this is a family film. Yet, the screenplay is extremely witty with brilliant dialogue and entertaining and enjoyable musical productions, especially the elegant "On The Steps of The Place" and hilarious "Agony". The production design is absolutely exquisite with very little CGI used and the film is very atmospheric as the woods are designed with an air of mystery and darkness that is felt by the audience.

Into The Woods boasts an impressive cast with performances that may surprise. Emily Blunt and James Corden work very well together on screen and their relationship is comedic in the most realistic of ways. Blunt appears in her first musical role and stuns with her beautiful singing voice. Anna Kendrick is certainly no stranger to musicals with her Broadway background and past roles in Camp and Pitch Perfect (as well as the upcoming sequel to the latter and The Last 5 Years), but truly shows her vocal range and is exquisite as Cinderella. She is incredibly likable and the most naturalistic Cinderella to grace the screen.

Meryl Streep does not disappoint as the Witch. She is full of character and shows another side to the Witch who lives in these fairytales, which is that of a Witch with a past that has shaped her. Chris Pine is a real surprise packet as Cinderella's Prince Charming. It is a completely different role for Pine and hearing him sing is surprising, but not a terrible experience at all. His performance is formed around a parody of fairytale princes and is really quite amusing. Young Daniel Huttlestone, who plays Jack, is also a standout with incredible acting ability and a lovely voice.

While there is a moral to most stories we tell our children, what Into The Woods has to say about life through the way the fairytales are told is a great deal more helpful and insightful. The film is surprising, but pleasing for many reasons, but won't delight those who don't enjoy musicals as much as those who do.

7.5/10

The Imitation Game (2014) film review

Year: 2014
Running Time: 114 minutes
Director: Morten Tyldum
Writers: Andrew Hodges (book), Graham Moore (screenplay)
Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Mark Strong, Matthew Goode, Charles Dance, Alex Lawther

The Imitation Game is now showing in Australian cinemas and is distributed by Roadshow Films. Now showing in the United States and United Kingdom.

With an incredibly strong cast and screenplay, The Imitation Game is an extremely solid and highly enjoyable film. Looking at the relatively recent discovery of how Alan Turing and his associates came to play a major part in ending World War II, it is Benedict Cumberbatch who is at the centre of the film and truly makes it a memorable experience with his incredible performance.

In 1939 Great Britain, war has just been declared and one of the country's greatest mathematical minds, Alan Turing (Benedict Cumberbatch) has just been employed by the government to help crack the code of the German's encryption device, Enigma. As Enigma's code resets each day, it is an extremely difficult talk and a race against time, but to break it would bring about the end of the war. A team of great minds are assembled alongside Alan to try to solve Enigma, including champion chess player, Hugh Alexander (Matthew Goode) and Joan Clarke (Keira Knightley). In order to do this, Alan builds his own machine to work against the Germans, a decision that is not made without criticism from those around him. However, if Alan can get the machine (which he has affectionately called Christopher) to crack Enigma's code, it would be the greatest weapon against the enemy and would once again bring peace to the world.

The story of Alan Turing is not only intriguing, but one which everyone should hear in order to understand that it wasn't the weapons on the battlefield that ultimately made a difference. Some of the greatest minds worked in top secret conditions to bring peace to the world. As this part of history was kept a government secret for over 50 years, this story has not been told on the screen before and brings a new understanding to the quest for peace in the war years. The Imitation Game is a truly unique experience for this reason and it's screenplay does the story of Alan Turing's life and most important achievement complete justice. As well as chronicling the war days, flashbacks to Alan's childhood are used to connect the viewer to and understand the character of Alan further. The screenplay is exceptionally well written and the dialogue very witty and surprisingly hilarious at times. As Alan Turing wasn't particularly sociable, he suffered from a lack of personal skills and his honesty and reactions to certain aspects of human behaviour and speech are highly amusing.

The film isn't continuously suspenseful, but rather has bursts of tension. These moments are actually quite eerie, as one can feel the tension of the characters on screen trying to work against time to solve the code and prevent the war continuing with thousands of lives being lost. They are connected to the war and although they are working far away from it, in the moments of silence at the end of the day you can somehow hear the sounds on the battlefield far away. The film is quite moving at times, but it is the story which is most powerful.

With the majority of The Imitation Game being set in 1939-1942, the film is incredibly nostalgic. The costumes and production design are perfect for the time period, but the attitudes captured are also time relevant. Being female, Joan is always the outsider of the group and although she is in fact a woman quite ahead of her time, the way everyone around her see's her is perfectly suited to the time period.

While the screenplay is brilliant, it is Benedict Cumberbatch that The Imitation Game will most be remembered for. Cumberbatch is absolutely brilliant as the quirky genius. He channels Turing wonderfully and gives an incredibly controlled performance. He delivers his comedic lines perfectly and is able to become likable to the viewer while behaving hostile, but he also plays the damaged Alan so well. It is a role which shows Cumberbatch's versatility as an actor as he shows the many sides of Alan with such conviction.

Although none of the other characters in the film are really given a great deal of background or development, the rest of the cast all have strong screen presences and work perfectly alongside Cumberbatch. Keira Knightley is wonderful as Joan Clarke in a performance which is also controlled and strong without being forced. Charles Dance, Mark Strong and Matthew Goode all have tremendous screen presence and also do very well.

The Imitation Game is a unique story which is not widely known, but one that should be. Benedict Cumberbatch proves his incredible versatility as an actor and ultimately carries the film to the success that it is.

8/10

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014) film review

Year: 2014
Running Time: 119 minutes
Director: Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu
Writers: Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, Nicolas Giacobone, Alexander Dinelaris and Armando Bo
Cast: Michael Keaton, Edward Norton, Emma Stone, Naomi Watts, Andrea Riseborough, Zach Galifianakis, Amy Ryan

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) will open in Australian cinemas on January 15 and is distributed by 20th Century Fox. Now showing in the United States and United Kingdom.

Michael Keaton playing an ex-superhero actor in Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) sounds like it could well be autobiographical. However, that it isn't and that's a beautiful thing. Birdman is a remarkable cinematic experience that showcases exquisite cinematography and editing, wonderful performances and a highly entertaining screenplay, which all show beyond doubt the filmmaking brilliance of director and co-writer Inarritu. Though the film is mostly bleak in it's outlook of life and love, it does have it's underlying uplifting themes hidden in it's black humour and slight surrealism.

Riggan Thomas (Michael Keaton), the film actor who's most memorable role is that of superhero Birdman, is trying to make his acting comeback on the stage by directing and starring in an adaptation of 'What We Talk About When We Talk About Love". He puts everything on the line for this play including his finances and reputation, but also his relationship with his daughter, Sam (Emma Stone) who is fresh out of rehab and acting as his PA. Riggon can't seem to catch a break on his stage with the actions of his erratic actors (especially the unpredictable latecomer Mike (Edward Norton)) and mishaps stopping the company from having a perfect run through before opening night and making Riggan believe that maybe he really is just Birdman.

Birdman is absolutely superb film making. The screenplay is incredibly detailed and unpredictable with colourful dialogue that is witty, hilarious and entertaining. Riggan's story treads the line between realism and surrealism which could make it hard for some to figure out, but is an unique method of ensuring the films unpredictability. Inarritu ensures that the characters of Broadway and their situations are realistic to those of the world theatre world, but has fun in letting anything go with Riggan and his Birdman alter ego. The relationship between Riggan and Birdman is a particularly interesting one. Like many actors who are typecast as a result of an iconic role they have played, Riggan is trying to be rid of the Birdman persona he is known by and the voice of the character who has become a part of him in his head. However, it would seem that Riggan cannot be separated from Birdman so the two are actually one in the same. What the film is saying here is that rather than be ashamed of the past, one needs to take the best of what the past gave you and believe that you are special for it and only then will others believe that you are special. Birdman does this in an extremely innovative, memorable and unexpected way.

Birdman's brilliance is not at all limited to it's screenplay. Inarritu's piece of cinematic art plays with the technical side of the form and makes the film visually captivating. The impression is given that Birdman is filmed in one shot, but it is the incredible use of sly editing which makes this possible. The camera produces what seems to be one long tracking shot, in which characters are followed by the camera to where the next scene takes place. This was extremely ambitious, but executed so well that it is genius. It feels as though the camera is a living being running after each of the characters and moving from side to side with haste as if listening to and watching characters address each other. The musical score is also unique with the large majority of it being primarily percussion and this fits right in with the Broadway atmosphere. Although the majority of the film is set inside the St James Theatre in New York City, when the characters step outside one can feel the cool city air and the bustle of being on the ground or the feeling of freedom being removed when looking down on Times Square.

With this role, Michael Keaton completely reinvents himself. No one ever doubted Keaton's ability as an actor, but with his portrayal of the desperate Riggan he undoubtedly gives the best performance of his career. It would have been expected for his character to be distraught about not being able to break free of his Birdman persona and although there are hints at this annoyance, this is not what his performance is about. It is about a man who is desperate in every area of his life and who's life keeps intercepting with the role he is playing on stage. Keaton has many shining moments and his Riggan is a character which the viewer truly cares about and connects with.

Emma Stone, like Keaton, gives the best performance of her career. She gives a controlled but evolving performance throughout the film, though she has one truly spectacular scene with Keaton filmed in close up in which her dialogue is brilliantly delivered but her expressions speaks louder than words. Edward Norton is also very good as Mike, an actor who relies greatly on the practise of method acting and struggles to understand who he is away from the stage as a result. Norton captures the notion of being confidant in not knowing who you are perfectly. Naomi Watts, Andrea Riseborough and Zach Galifinakis all also shine in their roles.

Birdman is a cinematic triumph in so many areas. Inarritu has not only brought out the very best in all of his actors, but has also created a fine piece of cinema artwork.

9/10

St. Vincent (2014) film review

Year: 2014
Running Time: 102 minutes
Director and Writer: Theodore Melfi
Cast: Bill Murray, Jaeden Lieberher, Melissa McCarthy, Naomi Watts, Scott Adsit, Chris O'Dowd

St. Vincent is now showing in Australian cinemas and is distributed by Roadshow Films.

Theodore Melfi's St. Vincent is a perfect example of how the right casting can create something truly special from a story which is not completely innovative. While the film is indeed well made, the story of Vincent and his neighbours is not overly creative and rather predictable. However, it is the characters which are extremely well developed and absolutely fascinating that are brought to life by wonderful performances that truly make the film a completely memorable experience.

When one has the misfortune of meeting Vincent (Bill Murray), it is obvious with his extreme brutal honesty, disregard for personal hygiene and aggressive outlook that he is not a people person. That becomes problematic when recently divorced Maggie (Melissa McCarthy) and her son, Oliver (Jaeden Lieberher) move in next door and Vincent offers to look after Oliver each day after school for a chosen fee. Oliver finds that he cannot change who Vincent is, but he sees past his tough front and understands who this man truly is.

While the screenplay is beautifully written and Theodore Melfi is a wonderful storyteller, it is not a revolutionary story with a great deal of originality. The story of a youngster befriending someone from an older generation and the two of them finding out how much they need each other is a film plot that seems to come around periodically and when it does always offers little unpredictability. It has become a story which can now only really work in a film if the screenplay is exceptionally strong and has intriguing characters which connect on an emotional level with audiences. St. Vincent is indeed one of these films. Melfi does a wonderful job at turning a story so often told before into a fresh cinematic experience with his wonderful direction in this character driven film.

 It is in this way that St. Vincent is a film which relies more on it's characters than it does it's story in order for it to work. Without the incredibly interesting and deep characters brought to life in brilliant performances by Murray, McCarthy and Watts, the film would feel rather ordinary and unmemorable. This is not to say that the film has only one good aspect, as this is not the case. It's soundtrack fits well with the tone of the film and the cinematography gives the audience the chance to really feel what it is like to be in the Brooklyn which the film is set in. There are some truly tender and emotional moments in the film, some of which are tragic and others completely heart warming. However, it are the characters and performances that allow one to forget how many times they have seen this story done in film before.

The casting of the four main characters in St. Vincent is perfect. Unlike many protagonists, Bill Murray ensures that Vincent wins no fans as the film opens. He is repulsive and repellent, which makes he and his story all the more intriguing. He never completely restores himself in the audience's eyes, yet he does produce moments which evoke sympathy and he is still enormously entertaining to watch as a result. Murray is excellent in the lead and gives an incredibly well rounded performance of a complex human being. He has wonderful on screen chemistry with young Jaeden Lieberher, who in his feature film debut does wonderfully. The way in which his character of Oliver develops throughout the film is incredibly portrayed by an actor of such a young age.

As the broken Maggie, Melissa McCarthy gives her best performance to date. From her first moments on screen as her and Oliver move into the house next door to Vincent, one feels her overwhelming sadness and pities her without even knowing the full scope of the situation her and Oliver have found themselves in. Maggie is McCarthy's most likable role in her career so far and shows her incredible dramatic ability. On the other hand, Naomi Watts as Vincent's pregnant Russian stripper girlfriend, Daka paddles into the unknown waters of comedy (if her role in the dud Movie 43 is neglected) and is an absolute delight. Although her character has some moments of distaste as Vincent does, the heavily pregnant lady of the night is larger than life in personality and Watts is a complete joy in this role.

St. Vincent is an example of starting with something that is neither overly interesting or special, and understanding what to do in order to make it special.

7.5/10

Top 10 Films of 2014

As we say goodbye to 2014, it is time to reflect on the films we have seen and reviewed in the past twelve months. In this film year, we have seen and reviewed many of 2014's new releases and from those films we have compiled our list of the top ten films of the year. Each of these films were completely thrilling to watch as they are all examples of incredible and inspired film making and are all highly recommended. Please note that the top ten are based on the films which were part of the 2014 Australian release schedule.

10. The Grand Budapest Hotel
Release Date- 10th April 2014

 Wes Anderson's latest piece of cinema, The Grand Budapest Hotel is absolutely nothing short of grand itself. There is so much to marvel at during a viewing of this quirky but brilliant film. So much that you feel as though you need to watch it again just in case you missed something the first time around, and this is no bad thing. The whole film is a beautiful piece of art thanks to it's amazing visuals, extraordinary cinematography, interesting characters and wonderful screenplay.

9. Once My Mother
Release Date- 24th July 2014

Once My Mother is an incredibly generous offering from Sophia Turkiewicz, who shares her mother's extraordinary story in an extremely effective way by combining her and her family's personal experience with history and using a beautifully personal form of narrative.  Turkiewicz's ode to her mother is exceptionally well made and is as heartbreaking and shocking as it is loving and inspiring. It is a rare experience that opens the doors of an incredible family history and invites all in to witness their pain and triumph.

8. Only Lovers Left Alive
Release Date- 17th April 2014

Jim Jarmusch's Only Lovers Left Alive is a beautifully entrancing film like no other. It attempts the complex task of marrying the traditional with the modern in it's creative take on a popular cultural phenomenon and due to Jarmusch's incredible direction and vision results in something truly elegant. While there have been no lack of creature of the night films in recent times, Only Lovers Left Alive is not only an unique interpretation of how they live in today's society, but also a love story which is wonderfully portrayed by Tilda Swinton and Tom Hiddleston.

7. Nightcrawler
Release Date- 27th November 2014

Intriguing and incredibly unique, Nightcrawler is a brilliant portrait of the modern world of crime journalism and of a memorable but disturbing character by the name of Lou Bloom. With its highly intelligent and well written screenplay, Dan Gilroy's film is incredibly unpredictable and suspenseful and captures the atmosphere of the crime climate of Los Angeles, but still manages to do so in a tasteful and captivating fashion. Jake Gyllenhaal gives an absolutely superb performance of one of the unsettling characters you find creeping around Los Angeles in the night. Nightcrawler is clearly one of the best, if not the best psychological thriller of the year.

6. Saving Mr Banks
Release Date- 9th January 2014

Saving Mr Banks is complete and utter joy. This joy doesn't just stem from the fact that it is a beautiful film, but also from the revelation that this film isn't just for Disney fanatics. It is a film for all to enjoy and appreciate. In Saving Mr Banks Disney has made their best live action film in years. While many were worried that this would be a Disney film about Disney which means that it could have well turned into primarily a major marketing tool for the empire. Even though there are plenty of Mickey Mouse references in the film, there is a great deal more emotion than one could have ever expected thanks to an impressive screenplay and some truly wonderful performances, especially by Emma Thompson. In the film, P.L. Travers accuses Walt Disney of wanting to give Mary Poppins the Disney treatment and making her twinkle, yet Saving Mr Banks relies very little on sugar coating when creating a truly wonderful film.

5. Boyhood
Release Date- 4th September 2014

Richard Linklater's Boyhood is a beautiful and ground-breaking piece of cinema that's power lies in the subtlety of life's most meaningful moments. Twelve years in the making, Linklater's masterpiece is the true definition of a coming of age film and is revolutionary in it's production. Boyhood is made with a huge amount of love for life and for the process of growing up without any use of exaggeration. Mason is more than a character in a film, he is a boy you form an attachment to and cherish the opportunity to watch grow up.

4. The Wolf of Wall Street
Release Date- 23rd January 2014

The Wolf of Wall Street is another amazing piece of work by the dynamic duo that is Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio. The story of the "Wolf" is intriguing and entertaining and keeps the viewer's undivided attention for the entirety of the film. The film is unexpectedly hilarious and pleasingly shocking at the same time, while also making you contemplate the ethics of the actions of Jordan Belfort. Leonardo DiCaprio is a force to be reckoned with in his fifth partnering with the great Martin Scorsese and the combination of these two proves once again to be a winner.

3. 12 Years A Slave
Release Date- 30th January 2014

!2 Years A Slave was without a doubt the most powerful feature film of the year. It has everything one would associate with a perfect film and Academy Award winner as it is completely unforgettable and immaculately made. As a result of it's perfect direction by Steve McQueen and incredible performances by all the actors involved as well as a wonderful adapted screenplay, the film is overwhelmingly emotionally powerful and honest in the most brutal way. It is a painful, but wonderful cinematic experience which consists of so many best achievements for the year in film.

2. The Immigrant
Release Date- 25th September 2014

James Gray's The Immigrant is a truly exquisite piece of work. Visually stunning and reminiscent of 1920's New York City, the tale of a woman's journey to a new and promising land which turns to disaster is extraordinarily tight knit and flows wonderfully without being clichéd or predictable. Marion Cotillard and Joaquin Phoenix are both superb as two strong characters with a great deal of complexity and depth. The Immigrant is as stunning on the surface as it is subtly complex.

1. Her
Release Date- 16th January 2014

 

Spike Jonze's Her is like no other. Cynical and thought provoking, yet incredibly sweet and romantic. Her is a scary reminder of how dependant we are becoming on technology and the future we are heading towards as a result of this dependence, yet it is also a reminder of how beautiful life is. A sweet but unconventional love story which see's Joaquin Phoenix give yet another incredible performance is a pleasure to behold on screen and is an absolute must see.

Big Hero 6 (2014) film review

Year: 2014
Running Time: 108  minutes
Directors: Don Hall and Chris Williams
Writers: Duncan Rouleau and Steven T. Seagle (based on the comic by), Don Hall and Jordan Roberts (story), Paul Briggs (head of story), Robert L. Baird, Daniel Gerson and Jordan Roberts (screenplay)
Cast: (voices)Ryan Potter, Scott Adist, Daniel Henney, James Cromwell, Jamie Chung, T.J. Miller, Damon Wayans Jr., Maya Rudolph

Big Hero 6 will be released in Australia on December 26 and is distributed by Walt Disney Studios. To be released in the United States on November 6 and the United Kingdom on January 30.

Big Hero 6 takes the infamous Walt Disney animation charm and marries it with the high paced superhero thrills of Marvel films to create an incredible piece of cinematic art. Don Hall and Chris Williams' film takes a unique direction for an animated film as it has a firm grasp on raw human emotion while existing in a heightened reality. Big Hero 6 introduces the world to the incredibly lovable and unlikely hero, Baymax who earns his place in the realm of the most memorable and beloved Disney animated characters.

In the bustling metropolis of San Fransokyo, budding bot-fighter Hiro (Ryan Potter) has to constantly be rescued from trouble by his sensible older brother, Tadashi (Daniel Henney), who is trying to convince his genius younger brother to use his intellect for something useful. When he takes Hiro to his research lab at San Fransokyo Institute of Technology, Hiro meets all Tadashi's friends as well as his idol, Professor Robert Callaghan (James Cromwell) and Tadashi's creation, Baymax (Scott Adsit), an inflatable health care companion robot. Hiro is then certain he must attend the same school as his older brother, but when a tragic accident takes place, Hiro's attention and goals shift to something far more vengeful.

One can only imagine that Disney must have had a feeling not unlike second album syndrome having to follow up the monster hit that was Frozen, which is now the highest grossing animated film of all time. However, as Disney has now made over 50 animated feature films and the studio is no stranger to the high expectations the public puts on their films, this would not be a notion they have not had to deal with before. Big Hero 6 will no doubt receive inevitable comparisons to Frozen due to it's incredible success, but it is a film vastly different from it's predecessor and incredibly comfortable in itself.

While Disney purchased Marvel Comics back in 2009, this is the first real evidence of this union as seen in feature film animation. The comic "Big Hero 6" by Duncan Rouleau and Steven T. Seagle was first published in 1998 with little fanfare. The film itself is more an adaptation of the comic as some of the characters and their situations are changed to allow for a larger audience and the creation of an original and relatable screenplay. Marvel superheroes are usually known for their superhuman powers which help them save the day and/or the world. The characters of Big Hero 6 may be animated, but the traits they possess are more realistic and relatable than those commonly associated with stereotypical superheroes. Along with their high level of intellect, all of the characters in the film who are part of group Hiro assembles to take on the mysterious masked villain do not have super powers as such, but instead take full advantage of their individual talents and do amazing things with them. Not one of them can take on the villain by themselves, but when they all come together they do amazing things. This is an inspirational thought for real life. There is nobody who can conquer the world by themselves, but when they are part of a group of people who share their talents, that is when change can be brought about. Nobody can be good at everything, but everyone has a talent for something and it's the ones who make the most of that talent that reach their true potential.

Big Hero 6 also looks at the way people handle grief and the stages which they go through. While Hiro's friends and Aunt Cass (voiced by Maya Rudolph) mourn in their own controlled way, Hiro retreats into himself for a time period before seeking revenge. In his heart he knows revenge won't bring his loved one back, but in his grief he somehow believes it will bring on a change of some sort. These are feelings many who have experienced the same sort of loss will be familiar with and while they would not have gone to the same lengths as Hiro, will understand his actions.

Big Hero 6 is a rather emotional journey for this reason, but also because of the depth of the friendship developed between Hiro and Baymax. Baymax comes to Hiro when he most needs him and is incredibly endearing and wonderfully lovable. He is a character so simple in appearance yet complex in creation. He is first and foremost a health care companion, but becomes the best friend Hiro could ask for which stems largely from his inbuilt compassion and wish to fix anything that may be wrong. Baymax gives the film some of it's most tender moments and also some of the most amusing moments, such as when his battery running low resembles tipsiness. For the character's simplicity in design, the connection one feels to him by the end of the film is outstanding.

The animation employed in Big Hero 6 is truly outstanding. The world of San Fransokyo in which Hiro and his friends exist in is truly brilliant and completely intriguing. San Fransokyo is the mash of San Francisco and Tokyo and contains features from both cities, including several recognisable landmarks and landscapes. When the film begins, the city looks remarkably like San Francisco from the bay views, but as it zooms in on the city it resembles more the busy streets of Tokyo. An incredible amount of detail has gone into every visual aspect of the film and every passer on the streets in the film has their own individual genetic make-up.

However, coming out of Big Hero 6 one has the feeling that the film would lose something on it's second viewing. Like all good superhero films, there is an excitement to the first viewing and a thrill which isn't enjoyed as much the second time around. It isn't the fact that the unpredictability is gone with a second viewing, but more that the emotional impact and intrigue and excitement associated with the story itself doesn't transcend into future viewings. Yet, the appreciation for what the film is trying to say remains.

Big Hero 6 represents a successful union between Disney and Marvel and has something for both young and old and male and female audiences. As is expected from Marvel films, it is well worth staying till the end of the credits.

8/10

Annie (2014) film review

Year: 2014
Running Time: 118 minutes
Director: Will Gluck
Writers: Harold Gray (comic "Little Orphan Annie"), Thomas Meehan (stage play book), Will Gluck and Aline Brosh McKenna (screenplay)
Cast: Quvenzhane Wallis, Jamie Foxx, Rose Byrne, Cameron Diaz, Bobby Cannavale, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, David Zayas

Annie opens in Australian cinemas on December 18 and is distributed by Roadshow Films. Opening in the United States on December 19 and the United Kingdom on December 26.

Bringing the beloved family musical Annie into 2014 is one of the few remakes of the year that actually makes sense. Although it is a film strictly for musical fans, Annie embraces it's new time period with an adapted story and screenplay that takes full advantage of it's shift in time period and still pays tribute to the original stage play and 1982 film. Although the music feels rather dated as a result of staying true to the original and in pure Annie fashion is as cheesy as can be, there is a wit and joy to the film that makes it entertaining and enjoyable for those who can handle breaking into song at the drop of a hat.

A child of the foster care system, Annie Bennett (Quvenzhane Wallis) lives in the care of the bitter and cynical Colleen Hannigan (Cameron Diaz), but never gives up hope that the parents who abandoned her when she was much younger will someday return for her. Her hard knock life experiences a major change in fortune when she is rescued by high flying businessman, William Stacks (Jamie Foxx) who is in the middle of a campaign to become mayor of New York. In a whirlwind turn of events, Stacks is advised by his campaign manager, Guy (Bobby Cannavale) to have Annie move in with him to give him a boost in the polls and it is then that Annie's life starts to turn into the fairy tale she always dreamed of.

Will Gluck's take on the traditional story about the orphan girl with flaming red curly hair is not as much a remake as it is an adaptation. While the basis between the original Annie and the 2014 film is technically the same, the screenplays are rather different due in large part to bringing Annie to the present day rather than revisiting her in the 1930's orphanage. The new screenplay is a reimagining of the traditional Annie and as a result does something which so many remakes/adaptations fail to do and that is to justify it's existence by bringing something new to the tale. At the same time, it also pays tribute to the past versions by featuring another Annie in Annie Bennett's classroom with bright red hair and naming Stack's opponent in the mayor election Harold Gray, the name of the man who wrote the original comic strip 'Little Orphan Annie".

Gluck's film is in the minority of adaptations that actually do this and even though the screenplay isn't particularly strong, it is still entertaining and is so particularly for younger audiences who will appreciate it's cheesy nature and tendency for over-exaggeration. Adults that come to expect this from the film will enjoy it more than those who are not fans of musicals that feature bursting into song mid-sentence, yet the film must be commended as it also makes fun of itself for doing this. The dialogue spoken by the characters at times is extremely witty with some very clever one liners and some of the scenarios they find themselves in are hilarious, such as Stacks and the mashed potato incident.

One of the reasons Annie has remained so loved over the years is because of the catchy and memorable songs. The new film reprises many of the songs in the original songbook including "Tomorrow", "Maybe", "It's A Hard Knock Life" and "Little Girls". Yet, unlike the screenplay, these songs feel rather dated in a modern film. Again, Gluck has tried hard to make sure his film pays respect to the original and this is sure to be one of the ways he has done this, but the mentioned songs would have benefit from a remastering to have a better fit in the film. There is the inclusion of original pieces of music, including the now Golden Globe nominated "Opportunity" performed by Wallis and written by Sia, which is a truly lovely song.

Quvenzhane Wallis does wonderfully as Annie Bennett. She is completely endearing, wonderfully charismatic and has the rare ability to appear so natural in the cheesiest of situations. Wallis also has a particularly beautiful singing voice. There is a great amount of on screen chemistry between her and Jamie Foxx that provides the film with warmth and emotion. Foxx does rather well and is likable and comical, but has moments where his character of Stacks starts to blend into his real life persona whether intended or not.

Rose Byrne is lovely and like Wallis and Foxx, completely likable and has great chemistry with Wallis. Cameron Diaz would have benefit greatly if she had toned her character of Colleen Hannigan down a few notches as she is so incredibly over the top that she becomes more forced than comical. However, she must be commended for taking the risk as she hasn't taken part and sung in a film musical until now and as exaggerated as her character may be, Diaz does look like she is having fun in the film.

The attraction one has to Annie will vary depending on their appreciation of musicals. However, it is a family film that will delight younger viewers and is a film that will make the conversion to DVD with success.

6/10

Best Christmas Songs From Movies

 

 

Once again, that time of the year is upon us. The holiday season is a joyous time for many of us as it means getting together with family and friends, the anticipation of Santa Claus making his way down the chimney and decorating your house with as many Christmas lights as it takes to see it from outer space. On the other hand, there are those who are not the biggest fans of the holiday season and one of the reasons for this is more than likely the guarantee that you will not be able to go anywhere without hearing another freaking Christmas carol.

 

As you are walking through the mall putting yourself through the torture that is Christmas shopping, there will always be a certain Christmas song will come on that will instantly make you think of the movie which it is featured in. You hear the song and into your mind comes the visual of an actor or group of actors singing and dancing to it in a particular film. There are some Christmas songs that just cannot be separated from the movie which they appear in and that really isn't a bad thing.

 

Here in no particular order are some of the most memorable Christmas songs from movies and the clips of those songs in their respective movies.

 

"White Christmas" from Holiday Inn (1942)

 

Bing Crosby's "White Christmas" is without a doubt the best Christmas song from a film of all time. The song has also been hailed by many as one of the best movie songs of all time and one of the best Christmas songs of all time, as well as being one of the only Christmas songs to have won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. The song originally appeared in Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn, but also appeared 12 years later in White Christmas which once again starred Crosby. "White Christmas" is a song you will no doubt hear dozens of times over Christmas and every time you hear it, you picture Crosby crooning.

"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" from Meet Me in St Louis (1944)



No doubt over the holiday season you will hear "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" countless times and there is no element of surprise anymore when it is the last song at a carols service. However, Judy Garland's original version as sung in Vincente Minnelli's Meet Me in St Louis will always be the greatest rendition and it is impossible for any other version to capture as much emotion as Garland singing to a young Margaret O'Brien. It is a song which is nowadays sung as a celebration, but in the film is a heartbreaking ballad sung to perfection by Garland and was also sung during war time in the same melancholy fashion.

"All I Want for Christmas is You" from Love, Actually (2003)



It is inevitable that when you hear the song "All I Want for Christmas is You", you are more than likely hearing the Mariah Carey hit the high notes. However, the sequence in Love, Actually when the love of young Sam's (Thomas Brodie-Sangster) life, Joanna (played by Olive Olson) sings "All I Want for Christmas is You" at the school's Christmas concert is what you will more than likely visualise. Olson was only eleven years old when she worked her way into Christmas movie song history and although being in the film a short time, she is the reason for one of the most memorable scenes in the film and her singing of the song made popular by Mariah Carey was flawless. It is such a joyous scene in the film that it is talked about so often around Christmas and when speaking of the film.

"Christmas Is All Around" from Love, Actually (2003)



OK, so this isn't actually a traditional Christmas song and there isn't as much a chance of hearing this on a Christmas mix as other songs on this list, but anyone who has seen Love, Actually will find themselves singing "Christmas Is All Around" at some point in time over the holiday season. Even when you hear "Love Is All Around", it is easy to suddenly break into the Billy Mack (as played by Bill Nighy) adapted version, which even he admits is "utter s**t". So bad that it is fantastic.

"Auld Lang Syne" from It's A Wonderful Life (1946)



Arguably the greatest Christmas movie of all time, Frank Capra's It's A Wonderful Life closes in spectacular fashion leaving not a dry eye in the house. As George Bailey (James Stewart) is helped and embraced by the town he has done so much for when he is in a time of need, all those who love him sing "Auld Lang Syne" to close the film in a rendition that is like no other. It is filled with jubilation and a feeling of togetherness that makes you want to throw you arms around those near you and sing.

"Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" from Home Alone (1990)


(Please note: no video is available of the scene the song is featured in)

When one hears "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree", Home Alone is the movie that comes to mind. One of Kevin McCallister's (Macaulay Culkin) clever methods of fooling the two criminals who have his house in their sights, is to stage a party to make them believe that his family haven't gone on holidays. "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" by Brenda Lee is playing as mannequins dance, chat and pace around behind the curtain giving the impression of a raging party and the song is the perfect Christmas party songs.


"Jingle Bell Rock" from Mean Girls (2004)



Despite the fact that the Plastics give a wildly inappropriate performance for the schools Winter Talent Show in Mean Girls, you can't help but picture Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Amanda Seyfried and Lacey Chabert doing their raunchy dance in their sexy Santa costumes whenever you hear "Jingle Bell Rock". While the dance moves done by the girls are not what many of us would dare to do in public (besides Amy Poehler's "mum" moves), they are easily memorised and rerun in your mind when hearing the song.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone!