Scott Pilgrim Vs The World: Movie Review
Scott Pilgrim vs The World
Rating: 9/10
Cast: Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Brandon Routh,
Jason Schwartzman, Kieran Culkin, Anna Kendrick
Director: Edgar Wright
I've always believed (and secretly hoped) that the Geek would inherit the
Earth.
And man, after this I'm not disappointed or giving up on that hope at
all.
Based on the comic book series of the same name, Michael Cera stars as Scott
Pilgrim, a slightly loserish 22-year-old who's directionless and a bit aimless
and devastated after splitting from (read: dumped by) his girlfriend a year
ago.
So when he meets Ramona Flowers, a hipster girl (Winstead), he's desperate to
win her heart.
However, what Scott doesn't realise is that this girl comes with some serious
baggage - seven exes who will kill Scott rather than let him steal her
heart.
Throw into that mix the fact Scott's band Sex Bob-omb are competing for a
contract and the boy's certainly got a lot to deal with.
The tone is set right at the beginning of this film with the Universal logo
being given an 80s style gaming makeover, Scott Pilgrim wears its geek openly
and proudly on its sleeve.
Cera is pitch perfect as the main character with his deadpanning delivery and
timing, he's instantly engaging and incredibly amusing (although some may argue
he's not stretching his career by playing a variant of every other role he's
ever done) and will win you over, not just with the impressive fight scenes (you
would really never peg him as an action hero).
All of the cast are great in this - Winstead brings warmth to her role as
Flowers and Routh, Schwartzmann and Chris Evans really deliver as part of the
evil ex brigade. But it's the initial Bollywood style fight of Satya Bhabha's
Matthew Patel which is just genius. Credit also needs to go to Kieran Culkin as
Pilgrim's wiseass room mate.
Eschewing pop culture references left right and centre, this comic book
gaming crossover is a real treat from Edgar Wright (the genius who was part of
the Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz UK comedies). It's hard to describe exactly
how it takes the worlds of both the comics and 80s style fight games and brings
them to life.
But with pop up style subtitles cropping up on screen, laugh out loud funny
moments, Batman style fight scenes (Thwok and Kroww spring up during the scraps
and you almost expect a Kazam and Adam West to show up) and frenetic cutting
back and forth, it really is like a comic book has been brought vividly to life
on the big screen.
Oh and the moment the Vegan police show up is just brilliant.
Once again, Edgar Wright's demonstrated why he's one of the coolest, most
inventive and visionary directors in the business - the energy which is
liberally sprinkled all over this film stops it ever hitting a lull.
Scott Pilgrim is effortlessly cool and endlessly entertaining - go, get your
geek on.
Friday, 13 August 2010
The Collector: Movie Review
The Collector: Movie Review
The Collector
Ratng: 5/10
Cast: Josh Stewart, Andrea Roth, Madeline Zima, Michael Reilly Burke
Director: Marcus Dunstan
In this latest torture porn horror flick, Stewart is a former con man turned handyman Arkin who's spent the long months working at a swanky country home owned by the wealthy Chase family.
However, when Arkin hears his ex-wife's only got a few hours to pay off some debts, he decides to rob the Chase household and make sure she's safe.
But he comes unstuck when he heads to the home and finds the owner and wife chained up and bloodied - it appears someone else has already got designs on the home - and the family.
Not a film for the faint hearted, this moody and sadistic film is from one of the minds involved in the Saw franchise - that alone should be enough to tell you what's on the cards&.limbs being sliced, traps around a home and an unhealthy obsession with gore.
Sure, there's not much sense in a film like this (how did the wacko find the time to set so many traps around the house in just a few hours....does he have a group of helpers to call on?) but with The Collector, you're not there for the deep productive narrative. Stewart is fine as the hunter turned hunted who finds traps within traps as he tries to flee from the nightmare.
The Collector is adequately made, extremely well lit and quite horrific piece of film at times - it's evocatively tense and may well see you watching from behind your fingers. Granted it's not the nicest of films - but for those who want to have their fill of blood and gore, it's going to score quite a few points.
I'm not 100% sure why films like this continue to be made - each one tries to outdo its previous franchise entrant or competitor in terms of devious traps and kills but still there's clearly an audience out there for these types of films.
There's also the ending which sees it being set up for a sequel...maybe Jigsaw's now got himself some serious competition.
The Collector
Ratng: 5/10
Cast: Josh Stewart, Andrea Roth, Madeline Zima, Michael Reilly Burke
Director: Marcus Dunstan
In this latest torture porn horror flick, Stewart is a former con man turned handyman Arkin who's spent the long months working at a swanky country home owned by the wealthy Chase family.
However, when Arkin hears his ex-wife's only got a few hours to pay off some debts, he decides to rob the Chase household and make sure she's safe.
But he comes unstuck when he heads to the home and finds the owner and wife chained up and bloodied - it appears someone else has already got designs on the home - and the family.
Not a film for the faint hearted, this moody and sadistic film is from one of the minds involved in the Saw franchise - that alone should be enough to tell you what's on the cards&.limbs being sliced, traps around a home and an unhealthy obsession with gore.
Sure, there's not much sense in a film like this (how did the wacko find the time to set so many traps around the house in just a few hours....does he have a group of helpers to call on?) but with The Collector, you're not there for the deep productive narrative. Stewart is fine as the hunter turned hunted who finds traps within traps as he tries to flee from the nightmare.
The Collector is adequately made, extremely well lit and quite horrific piece of film at times - it's evocatively tense and may well see you watching from behind your fingers. Granted it's not the nicest of films - but for those who want to have their fill of blood and gore, it's going to score quite a few points.
I'm not 100% sure why films like this continue to be made - each one tries to outdo its previous franchise entrant or competitor in terms of devious traps and kills but still there's clearly an audience out there for these types of films.
There's also the ending which sees it being set up for a sequel...maybe Jigsaw's now got himself some serious competition.
Dr Who: S5 Vol 1: DVD Review
Dr Who: S5 Vol 1: DVD Review
Doctor Who: S5 Vol 1
Rating: PG
Released by BBC and Roadshow Home Entertainment
When David Tennant announced he was stepping down, there were fears that would be the end of the revamped Dr Who - but as ever, with this show, reinvention keeps it fresh.
Further consternation was caused when it was revealed the youngest ever actor Matt Smith would be taking on the role.
So to say there was a lot riding on the new series - along with new head writer Steven Moffat was an understatement.
But what a start to the new series - this volume collects together the opening trio of adventures for the 11th Doctor and his new companion Amy Pond.
The Eleventh Hour which introduces Matt Smith is the best of them - a thrilling rollicking ride which shows why Matt was born to play the role - with a spot on performance and a commanding presence from the off, it's easy to see why he was picked.
Sadly The Beast Below and Victory of the Daleks suffer in comparison to the opening adventure - the latter with its reinvention of the Daleks as multi coloured eye sores - there's nothing wrong with these tales but they don't sparkle as well as the Eleventh Hour.
Although Karen Gillan does well as the new companion and is at times, a bit wide eyed, it's a winning partnership and with hints of a season wide story arc, there's plenty of intrigue ahead.
Extras: The Monster files - a series of specially shot looks at the baddies of this adventures finally lift these releases simply out of the vanilla status.
Rating: 7/10
Doctor Who: S5 Vol 1
Rating: PG
Released by BBC and Roadshow Home Entertainment
When David Tennant announced he was stepping down, there were fears that would be the end of the revamped Dr Who - but as ever, with this show, reinvention keeps it fresh.
Further consternation was caused when it was revealed the youngest ever actor Matt Smith would be taking on the role.
So to say there was a lot riding on the new series - along with new head writer Steven Moffat was an understatement.
But what a start to the new series - this volume collects together the opening trio of adventures for the 11th Doctor and his new companion Amy Pond.
The Eleventh Hour which introduces Matt Smith is the best of them - a thrilling rollicking ride which shows why Matt was born to play the role - with a spot on performance and a commanding presence from the off, it's easy to see why he was picked.
Sadly The Beast Below and Victory of the Daleks suffer in comparison to the opening adventure - the latter with its reinvention of the Daleks as multi coloured eye sores - there's nothing wrong with these tales but they don't sparkle as well as the Eleventh Hour.
Although Karen Gillan does well as the new companion and is at times, a bit wide eyed, it's a winning partnership and with hints of a season wide story arc, there's plenty of intrigue ahead.
Extras: The Monster files - a series of specially shot looks at the baddies of this adventures finally lift these releases simply out of the vanilla status.
Rating: 7/10
Grand Designs Series Six: DVD Review
Grand Designs Series Six: DVD Review
Grand Designs Series Six
Rating: PG
Released by Roadshow Home Entertainment
Kevin McCloud once again returns in the show which never ceases to amaze would be home dreamers.
The formula of the show is a simple one - Kevin follows the ups and downs of the ambitious couples who have a vision for a property. And every time, the couples face some kind of obstacle in their quest for home perfection.
In these six episodes, there's a mix of development dreams - from the gothic to the futuristic, each one of them remains an intriguing look into what people can do - and why they do it.
However, it's due to McCloud that this show remains such a success - with his easy going and non intrusive technique, he really allows you to see all aspects of the build and confides his fears for what's planned.
Grand Designs remains a popular show and while there's an initial disappointment that this is such a short series, for fans (and dreamers alike) there's plenty to enjoy here.
Rating: 7/10
Grand Designs Series Six
Rating: PG
Released by Roadshow Home Entertainment
Kevin McCloud once again returns in the show which never ceases to amaze would be home dreamers.
The formula of the show is a simple one - Kevin follows the ups and downs of the ambitious couples who have a vision for a property. And every time, the couples face some kind of obstacle in their quest for home perfection.
In these six episodes, there's a mix of development dreams - from the gothic to the futuristic, each one of them remains an intriguing look into what people can do - and why they do it.
However, it's due to McCloud that this show remains such a success - with his easy going and non intrusive technique, he really allows you to see all aspects of the build and confides his fears for what's planned.
Grand Designs remains a popular show and while there's an initial disappointment that this is such a short series, for fans (and dreamers alike) there's plenty to enjoy here.
Rating: 7/10
Thursday, 12 August 2010
Dream Home: Movie Review
Dream Home: Movie Review
Dream Home
Rating: 6/10
Cast: Josie Ho, Eason Chan
Director: Pang Ho Cheung
For those who thought owning a home was a killer, then this film takes that to the logical extreme.
Also part of the Incredibly Strange section of the New Zealand International Film Festival this year and now screening as part of the Hong Kong film Festival, Dream Home is the story of Ho's Cheng Lai-Sheung, who's desperate to own a prime piece of housing in downtown Hong Kong.
But with financial worries and an ever increasing possibility of a recession, Lai-Sheung's dream is fast becoming a thing of the past - so she does what any (ir)rational person would do when facing a reality they can't cope with...she goes on a killing spree to get what she wants.
Dream Home is a film chocked full of sex and gore and uncomfortable shocks here and there. It's not a bad taste film by any stretch of the imagination but is one that you may want to leave your inhibitions at the door to.
Effectively played by all involved, it's quite the tense horror as Lai-Sheung sets about ensuring she can secure the dream home she's always wanted in life - and will stop at nothing to secure. That said, there's also a dark vein of humour pulsing throughout in places.
It's a stylishly s(l)ick piece of cinema which will unsettle in places and will satiate those who like a bit of a blood and guts cinema at the end of a long week - with the fact it says it's based on a true story, there will be some who'll question if property is really worth going that far for.
Dream Home
Rating: 6/10
Cast: Josie Ho, Eason Chan
Director: Pang Ho Cheung
For those who thought owning a home was a killer, then this film takes that to the logical extreme.
Also part of the Incredibly Strange section of the New Zealand International Film Festival this year and now screening as part of the Hong Kong film Festival, Dream Home is the story of Ho's Cheng Lai-Sheung, who's desperate to own a prime piece of housing in downtown Hong Kong.
But with financial worries and an ever increasing possibility of a recession, Lai-Sheung's dream is fast becoming a thing of the past - so she does what any (ir)rational person would do when facing a reality they can't cope with...she goes on a killing spree to get what she wants.
Dream Home is a film chocked full of sex and gore and uncomfortable shocks here and there. It's not a bad taste film by any stretch of the imagination but is one that you may want to leave your inhibitions at the door to.
Effectively played by all involved, it's quite the tense horror as Lai-Sheung sets about ensuring she can secure the dream home she's always wanted in life - and will stop at nothing to secure. That said, there's also a dark vein of humour pulsing throughout in places.
It's a stylishly s(l)ick piece of cinema which will unsettle in places and will satiate those who like a bit of a blood and guts cinema at the end of a long week - with the fact it says it's based on a true story, there will be some who'll question if property is really worth going that far for.
Herb and Dorothy: DVD Review
Herb and Dorothy: DVD Review
Herb And Dorothy
Rating: G
Released by Madman Entertainment
If you like art you'll love this.
Herb and Dorothy is the tale of two art lovers in New York who shaped a generation and managed to amass one of the most encompassing contemporary art collections.
Cameras follow the Vogels as we see them tour gallery openings, attend launches of artists and talk to the artists whom the Vogels championed and believed in right from the get go. We also trace their history of meeting, their courtship - and family's reaction to their collection which began to take over their Manhattan apartment.
It's an interesting tale as it traces their interest in conceptual and minimalist art - and shows how passion can eclipse anything else.
The pair are likeable and lovable - and you'll be seriously impressed with Herb's eye for what makes or breaks a collection. But what truly emerges is a couple whose love for each other and whose shared passion has created such an amazing collection and insight into how a movement began.
Although it has to be admitted for those who're not in the know about art, you probably won't change your mind - although listening to the various artists talk about how the Vogel's love for their work made such a difference, you'll be glad someone knows how to champion a cause very early on.
Extras: Trailer and deleted scenes make up the package - but there's very little else to say or add from what's on the screen.
Rating: 6/10
Herb And Dorothy
Rating: G
Released by Madman Entertainment
If you like art you'll love this.
Herb and Dorothy is the tale of two art lovers in New York who shaped a generation and managed to amass one of the most encompassing contemporary art collections.
Cameras follow the Vogels as we see them tour gallery openings, attend launches of artists and talk to the artists whom the Vogels championed and believed in right from the get go. We also trace their history of meeting, their courtship - and family's reaction to their collection which began to take over their Manhattan apartment.
It's an interesting tale as it traces their interest in conceptual and minimalist art - and shows how passion can eclipse anything else.
The pair are likeable and lovable - and you'll be seriously impressed with Herb's eye for what makes or breaks a collection. But what truly emerges is a couple whose love for each other and whose shared passion has created such an amazing collection and insight into how a movement began.
Although it has to be admitted for those who're not in the know about art, you probably won't change your mind - although listening to the various artists talk about how the Vogel's love for their work made such a difference, you'll be glad someone knows how to champion a cause very early on.
Extras: Trailer and deleted scenes make up the package - but there's very little else to say or add from what's on the screen.
Rating: 6/10
Dr Who: Space Museum/Chase DVD Review
Dr Who: Space Museum/Chase DVD Review
Dr Who - The Space Museum/ The Chase
Rating: PG
Released by BBC and Roadshow Home Entertainment
It's back to 1965 and the very first Doctor in this double release set which continues to see Classic Dr Who released on DVD.
In The Space Museum,a vast museum of relics - along with their own future selves - causes problems for the TARDIS crew and in The Chase, the Daleks once again return as they chase the time travellers through the vortex and stop at nothing in trying to exterminate their enemies.
How much you'll appreciate these releases depends on how much of a Who fan you are - and how far you're willing to suspend disbelief. With 60s Who, it's about forgetting we have great technology these days which brings the stories to life with effects - in "those days" it was about having this original show on TV the likes of which had never been seen before. Sure it's slightly slow and not as pacy as you'd like - but it's as inventive and imaginative as ever.
Extras: A great bunch once again off set any minor niggles with this release - a look at the departure of characters Barbara and Ian, a look at the appeal of the Daleks and a tribute to William Hartnell are just three of the plethora of features on the set.
Rating: 6/10
Dr Who - The Space Museum/ The Chase
Rating: PG
Released by BBC and Roadshow Home Entertainment
It's back to 1965 and the very first Doctor in this double release set which continues to see Classic Dr Who released on DVD.
In The Space Museum,a vast museum of relics - along with their own future selves - causes problems for the TARDIS crew and in The Chase, the Daleks once again return as they chase the time travellers through the vortex and stop at nothing in trying to exterminate their enemies.
How much you'll appreciate these releases depends on how much of a Who fan you are - and how far you're willing to suspend disbelief. With 60s Who, it's about forgetting we have great technology these days which brings the stories to life with effects - in "those days" it was about having this original show on TV the likes of which had never been seen before. Sure it's slightly slow and not as pacy as you'd like - but it's as inventive and imaginative as ever.
Extras: A great bunch once again off set any minor niggles with this release - a look at the departure of characters Barbara and Ian, a look at the appeal of the Daleks and a tribute to William Hartnell are just three of the plethora of features on the set.
Rating: 6/10
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