Tuesday, 13 June 2017

EA Play trailers

EA Play trailers


EA Play 2017 has been and gone - but here are some of the best game trailers from the 2017 event!

Besthesda Software E3 2017 announcements

Besthesda Software E3 2017 announcements


Here are Besthesda Software E3's 2017 announcements - and trailers for you to enjoy!

T2: Trainspotting: Blu Ray Review

T2: Trainspotting: Blu Ray Review


Cast: Ewan McGregor, Ewen Bremner, Jonny Lee Miller, Robert Carlyle, Kelly MacDonald
Director: Danny Boyle

"Nostalgia - that's why you're here."

A pertinently meta-line uttered in a casual fashion but, with a degree of bile from Jonny Lee Miller's Sick Boy to Ewan McGregor's Mark Renton, underpins a lot of T2: Trainspotting and runs through its narrative veins as strongly as the heroin injected by the gang way back in the 1990s.

If Trainspotting was the adrenaline-fuelled, high octane trip way back then, T2: Trainspotting is the comedown after the high, the joke that no-one's laughing at - a tacit admission that 20 years on, not everything is better and that regret is the only drug we all collectively share.


20 years later, after ripping off his friends Spud, Sick Boy and Begbie to the tune of 16 grand, Mark Renton returns to Edinburgh for reasons that are initially unclear.

With every one of the group's lives in tatters to varying degrees of acknowledgment (Spud's lost his family and is still on drugs, SickBoy's resorting to blackmailing sexual deviants in a brothel while being high on copious amounts of cocaine, and Begbie's been residing at Her Majesty's pleasure for 2 decades), Renton's return stirs up a simmering cauldron of regret, bitterness and perhaps most surprisingly, redemption.

But as the group's paths collectively collide once again, the sins of the past could overwhelm them all.

It's always going to be hard re-capturing the zeitgeist that the original Trainspotting encapsulated.

With the times of Blur, Oasis, Iggy Pop's Lust for Life and cool Britannia still ringing in your collective ears, Trainspotting was itself a defining cinematic experience, celebrating anti-heroes and presenting a truth about Britannia's underclasses that was scarcely seen.

Presenting drug-addled skeletal scum like Renton and making them look cool, and effortless as anti-heroes as well, the first film's despicable joie de vivre was unassailable and following it up was always going to be a hard task, no matter who was involved.


However, it's more than fair to say with a smattering of elements of Irvine Welsh's Porno, this emotionally inspired sequel hits a lot of the marks needed to ensure the trip is worth it again. T2: Trainspotting is a heady, stylistic romp into regret, friendship, betrayal, remorse and guilt.

It's also a mercilessly more mature and restrained piece of film-making from director Danny Boyle.

Robbed of the drug culture that so defined the group and the fact it's some 20 years later, there's a different dynamic at play here. Flashes of nostalgia and moments from the first film flit in between the bitterness that fuels this latest. Single notes of the tunes from the first film (Underworld's Born Slippy, that drum from Iggy Pop's Lust For Life) float in and out of the movie, seamlessly interweaving the film with the first.

And in some bravura touches, that shot of Renton mercilessly off his face and laughing after he hits the bonnet of a car is cleverly rendered again but in a less than salubrious sequence.

Flashes of the first film threaten, at times, to overwhelm Boyle's movie; almost as if you're being relentlessly teased with what made the first film so iconic and so memorable. But Boyle's smart enough to make these touches almost cameo-like and never once lets them swamp proceedings. Complete with freeze frames and a more reflexive and reflective take on proceedings, T2: Trainspotting is about the betrayal of youth and the failure of promise.

And all of his actors rise to the occasion as this reunion fires into life among the Edinburgh landmarks.


Notably though, it's Ewen Bremner's goggle-eyed tragedy-laced almost-idiot-savant Spud who rises from the ashes in the sequel as the film's surprising MVP.

His suicide attempt at the start and the subsequent imagery employed by Boyle to signify how far he's falling is as eye-popping as it is heart-breaking. But fear not, much like the worst toilet in Edinburgh and the dead baby in the first film, T2 doesn't scrimp away from the grim realities of desperate and disparate choices coming together.

In among the drug hints and past transgressions, there's another world that's come to the fore - the world of the Millennials, which is brutally skewered in an unnecessary (and dangerously close to pale imitation) update of Renton's original and oft-quoted Choose Life rant.

However, all up, T2: Trainspotting has an undeniable cinematic quality, an intoxicating mix and while the narrative doesn't, thankfully, have the frenetic pace of the first film (after all, nobody really wants a pale re-hash of what made the first so iconic), its rhythms and muted story say more than any sequel ever could.

Effortless dynamics between the quartet reflect real life friendships and with more than a casual hint of truisms in the dialogue, the film's spin on regret, squandered promises and past discrepancies comes vibrantly to life as the black humour bubbles away quietly in the background.
It may side-step criticisms that it doesn't find its own voice and lives distinctively in the shadow of the first film, but this companion piece movie cum sequel is much more than just the sum of its parts.

Older audiences, well versed in the first may get more than a nostalgic tinge from the past evocations, but T2: Trainspotting is a ride well worth boarding. Along with Boyle's eye for editing detail and the cast's easy-going chemistry that papers over some of the narrative weaknesses, it positively crackles and sizzles like any sequel worth its salt should do. 

Win WipEout: Omega Collection on PS4

Win WipEout: Omega Collection on PS4


A name synonymous with PlayStation®, WipEout® is the rapid combat racer that defies gravity and defines generations.

Known for its blistering speed, iconic music and pure multiplayer mayhem, WipEout has starred on every PlayStation format since 1995 – and is now set to rip through the air on PlayStation4 and PlayStation4 Pro.

 Featuring all the content from WipEout HD, Fury and 2048, WipEout™ Omega Collection packs in 26 circuits, 46 unique ships, a ton of game modes and a revamped soundtrack, featuring 28 hits from a mix of WipEout legends, like The Prodigy and The Chemical Brothers, through to unreleased tracks from breaking artists.

It’s time for WipEout veterans to come out of retirement and new pilots to make their debut.

  To win a copy of WipEout: Omega Collection all you have to do is enter simply email your details to this  address: darrensworldofentertainment@gmail.com or CLICK HERE NOW!

Include your name and address and title your email WIPEOUT!

Competition closes June 22nd

Good luck!


Win a double pass to see Rough Night

Win a double pass to see Rough Night




In Rough Night, an edgy R-rated comedy, five best friends from college (played by Scarlett Johansson, Kate McKinnon, Jillian Bell, Ilana Glazer, and Zoë Kravitz) reunite 10 years later for a wild bachelorette weekend in Miami. 

Their hard partying takes a hilariously dark turn when they accidentally kill a male stripper. 

Amidst the craziness of trying to cover it up, they're ultimately brought closer together when it matters most.

Rough Night is in cinemas June 15th

To celebrate the release, you can win a double pass to see Rough Night at the cinema!

To win a double pass to see ROUGH NIGHT all you have to do is enter simply email your details to this  address: darrensworldofentertainment@gmail.com or CLICK HERE NOW!

Include your name and address and title your email ROUGH!

Competition closes June 22nd

Good luck!


Sony E3 2017 Press conference live stream

Sony E3 2017 Press conference live stream


It's PlayStation's time to shine at E3 2017!

Watch the Sony PlayStation E3 2017 Press conference live stream below

And get ready for more on Days Gone By, Spider-Man, Crash Bandicoot N Sane Trilogy and maybe some more on the new God Of War....


Watch live video from PlayStation on www.twitch.tv You can also watch the press conference live on YouTube

Monday, 12 June 2017

Ubisoft E3 2017 press conference live stream

Ubisoft E3 2017 press conference live stream


A new Assassin's Creed is on the cards - but what else does Ubisoft have up its sleeve for E3 2017?

Stream the live Ubisoft E3 2017 press conference here


Watch live video from Ubisoft on www.twitch.tv

X Box One X unveiled at E3

X Box One X unveiled at E3


Xbox One X will be available in New Zealand for $749 NZD from November 7.
Xbox unveils historic E3 lineup with 42 new games including 22 with console exclusivity

LOS ANGELES — June 11, 2017 — Sunday marked a milestone Xbox E3 Briefing as Microsoft Corp. unveiled the world’s most powerful console, Xbox One X (formerly code-named “Project Scorpio”) and its largest and most diverse games lineup in E3 history. Broadcast for the first time in 4K UHD on Mixer, Xbox showcased a record 42 games in its briefing including 22 with console exclusivity from creators large and small

Coming to all Xbox One markets starting Nov. 7, Xbox One X will retail in New Zealand for $749 NZD.
Xbox One X was designed to be the best console to create and play games on, putting the greatest graphic fidelity in the hands of the world’s best game creators to create true 4K games. Head of Xbox Phil Spencer underscored that every game will play great across the Xbox One family, and Xbox One X also makes your existing library even better, with better textures, smoother framerates and faster load times.
“Xbox empowers game developers large and small to create different types of games for every type of player,” Spencer said. “Not only do we have the biggest cross-platform blockbusters on our platform, we’ve also scoured the world to bring our fans unique content from creative artists that capture the imagination.”

Xbox One is the only console system designed to play the best games of the past, present and future. The Xbox One games and accessories you already own are compatible with Xbox One X, so if you’re an Xbox gamer, chances are you already have a library of games that will look and play better on Xbox One X.


Introducing Xbox One X
Xbox One X was created to deliver uncompromised power, ultimate compatibility and design excellence. It’s both the most powerful and smallest console Xbox has ever built.

Xbox One X. Games play better on Xbox One X. The world’s most powerful console begins rolling out to all Xbox One markets starting on Nov. 7. With 40 percent more power than any other console, experience immersive true 4K gaming when paired with a 4K display, such as Samsung’s flagship QLED TV.  Xbox One X makes your existing library even better, with better textures, smoother framerates and faster load times, even on a 1080p TVXbox One X also offers the ultimate 4K entertainment package with 4K Ultra HD for Blu-ray X and streamed content, HDR support for gaming and video, and Dolby Atmos support. Xbox One X will join the Xbox One family of devices and coexist alongside Xbox One and Xbox One S, and all Xbox One games and accessories are compatible.

Empowering the world’s creators
Xbox empowers game developers around the world to create different types of games for every type of player. Showcasing a record 42 titles on its E3 stage including 22 with console exclusivity, Xbox debuted a wide range of titles from game creators large and small, all of which play better on Xbox One X:

“ANTHEM” (ELECTRONIC ARTS). “Anthem” is a shared-world action-RPG, where Freelancers challenge the wilds past the wall, exploring a vast world filled with savage beasts and ruthless marauders, but also teeming with amazing technology and forgotten treasures. Players will be able to join with their friends to unravel the world’s mysteries and defeat the forces plotting to conquer humanity. Throughout their journeys, players can outfit their Freelancers with powerful Javelin exosuits, each of which are equipped with unique weapons and abilities. Freelancers can customize their Javelin with gear they earn and craft throughout the adventure, and leave a lasting mark on the world.
“THE ARTFUL ESCAPE OF FRANCIS VENDETTI” (CONSOLE LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE). “The Artful Escape of Francis Vendetti” is a video game about great expectations, famous folk singers, lingering shadows, space gods, hallucinogens, individuality, reptile shops and wild imaginations. It’s an action, adventure, exploration, narrative-driven, musical-laser-light-battle kind of game and is the debut release from BEETHOVEN & DINOSAUR.
“ASHEN” (CONSOLE LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE). This action role-playing game is about a wanderer in search of a place to call home. There is no sun, and the only natural light comes from eruptions that cover the land in ash. This is a world where nothing lasts, no matter how tightly you cling to it. At its core, “Ashen” is about forging relationships. Players can guide those they trust to their camp — together, you might just stand a chance.
“ASSASSIN’S CREED ORIGINS” (UBISOFT – WORLD PREMIERE). Journey into Ancient Egypt, the most mysterious place in history, during a crucial period that will shape the world. Discover the secrets behind the Great Pyramids, forgotten myths, the last pharaohs, and the origin story of the Assassin’s Brotherhood. For the last four years, the team behind “Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag” has been crafting a new beginning for the franchise. Fight in a completely new way where you transition seamlessly between unique ranged and melee weapons, and take on multiple enemies at once. Choose your Assassin skills while exploring the full country of Ancient Egypt, engaging in multiple quests and gripping stories along a journey that will change civilization.
“BLACK DESERT” (CONSOLE LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE). “Black Desert” is a sandbox-oriented MMO featuring next-gen graphics, full-action combat and an immense, seamless world full of adventure and danger. Travel through the lands in search of treasure and adventure or become one of the top craftsmen in the land. Set up trade routes and breed horses or compete against other guilds in epic siege warfare.
“CODE VEIN” (BANDAI NAMCO ENTERTAINMENT AMERICA INC. – WORLD PREMIERE). A mysterious disaster has brought collapse to the world. Deep within the devastation lies an abandoned society for Revenants. Having lost their former memories, these Revenants must submit to their thirst for blood to retain their final shreds of humanity. Without blood, they would devolve into mad ghouls known as the Lost. These shells of former Revenants wander the land, deformed and deranged, slaves to their own bloodlust. Team up and embark on a journey to the ends of hell to unlock your past and escape your living nightmare in “CODE VEIN.”
“CRACKDOWN 3” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE). Starring Terry Crews as Commander Jaxon, “Crackdown 3” brings the boom with its worldwide campaign gameplay reveal, where players will stop crime as a superpowered Agent in a sandbox of mayhem and destruction. Developed by Microsoft Studios in collaboration with Sumo Digital and Reagent Games, “Crackdown 3” delivers four-person campaign co-op, as well as an all-new multiplayer mode2 where destruction is your ultimate weapon, powered by the Microsoft Cloud. Available worldwide on Nov. 7 as an Xbox Play Anywhere title alongside the launch of Xbox One X.
 “CUPHEAD” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE). Available (finally) beginning Sept. 28, 2017, as an Xbox Play Anywhere title, “Cuphead” is a classic run-and-gun action game heavily focused on boss battles. Inspired by cartoons of the 1930s, the visuals and audio are painstakingly created with the same techniques of the era, i.e., traditional hand-drawn cel animation, watercolor backgrounds and original jazz recordings. Play as Cuphead or Mugman (in single player or local co-op) as you traverse strange worlds, acquire new weapons, learn powerful supermoves and discover hidden secrets while you try to pay back your debt to the devil!
“THE DARWIN PROJECT” (CONSOLE LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE). “The Darwin Project” takes place in a dystopian post-apocalyptic landscape in the Northern Canadian Rockies. As preparation for an impending Ice Age, a new project, half science experiment, half live entertainment, is launched. It’s called “The Darwin Project,” and it challenges participants to survive the cold and fight to the death in a treacherous arena. “The Darwin Project” offers a competitive multiplayer third-person survival experience featuring at its core a new gameplay innovation: the manhunt. In his or her path to victory, a player must survive extreme environmental conditions, track opponents and set traps in order to win.
“DEEP ROCK GALACTIC” (CONSOLE LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE). In “Deep Rock Galactic,” join a team of badass space dwarves in this stylish co-op first-person shooter for one to four players. Fight, dig and explore your way through enormous procedurally generated cave systems, uncover the riches and make it out alive.
“DRAGON BALL FIGHTERZ (BANDAI NAMCO ENTERTAINMENT AMERICA INC. – WORLD PREMIERE). One of the world’s most famous and beloved anime franchises returns to its 2D fighting-game roots in “DRAGON BALL FighterZ” in early 2018. Developed by Arc System Works, one of the most celebrated developers of classic 2D fighting titles, the game delivers an explosive, action-packed experience that combines classic 2D fighting visuals with advanced graphics that look and feel as if they are ripped straight out of the DRAGON BALL anime series.
“FORZA MOTORSPORT 7” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE – WORLD PREMIERE). The best-selling racing franchise of this console generation3 returns with “Forza Motorsport 7.” Experience the danger and beauty of competitive racing at its limits with the most comprehensive automotive game ever made. Drivers will experience gorgeous true 4K graphics at 60 fps and true resolution in HDR within 30 famous environments, with race conditions that change each time you return to the track. Whether you’re a new player or a pro, collect over 700 Forzavista™ cars, including the new 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS cover car and the largest assortment of Ferraris, Porsches and Lamborghinis ever. The premier Xbox One X experience launches worldwide as an Xbox Play Anywhere title in October 2017.
 “THE LAST NIGHT” (CONSOLE LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE). Experience a two-dimensional cyberpunk open world, built with four unique districts each with distinct architecture, cultures and industries. Experience action and infiltration gameplay in the great tradition of cinematic platformers and travel between districts using taxis, ferries or monorail while trying to keep a low profile and remain undetected. Meet a diverse, inclusive cast of complex characters to interact with through meaningful, branching dialogue and enjoy varied gameplay such as driving down epic highways, flying drones and hacking droids to do your dirty work.
“LIFE IS STRANGE: BEFORE THE STORM” (SQUARE-ENIX – WORLD PREMIERE) “Life is Strange: Before the Storm” is a new three part standalone adventure set three years before the first game in the BAFTA award-winning franchise. “Life is Strange: Before the Storm” features Chloe Price, a 16 year-old rebel who forms an unlikely friendship with Rachel Amber, a beautiful and popular girl destined for success. When Rachel’s world is turned upside down by a family secret it takes their new found alliance to give each other the strength to overcome their demons.
“METRO EXODUS” (DEEP SILVER – WORLD PREMIERE) “Metro Exodus” is an epic, story-driven first person shooter from 4A Games that blends deadly combat and stealth with exploration and survival horror in one of the most immersive game worlds ever created. Flee the shattered ruins of dead Moscow and embark on an epic, continent-spanning journey across post-apocalyptic Russia in the greatest Metro adventure yet. Explore the Russian wilderness in vast, non-linear levels and follow a thrilling story-line inspired by the novels of Dmitry Glukhovsky that spans an entire year through spring, summer and autumn to the depths of nuclear winter.
“MIDDLE-EARTH: SHADOW OF WAR” (WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT). In “Middle-earth: Shadow of War,” players wield a new Ring of Power and confront the deadliest of enemies, including Sauron and his Nazgul, in a monumental battle for Middle-earth. This open-world Action RPG is brought to life through the expansion of the award-winning Nemesis System. The robust personalization from “Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor” is now applied to the entire world where the environments and characters are all shaped by player actions and decisions, creating a personal world unique to every gameplay experience. Available as an Xbox Play Anywhere title starting October 10.
“MINECRAFT” (UNIFICATION, BETTER TOGETHER UPDATE, SUPER DUPER GRAPHICS PACK). Mojang and Microsoft announced a new version of “Minecraft” that will bring the complete “Minecraft” experience to everyone on gaming consoles, mobile, VR and Windows 10 PCs this summer. The unification of “Minecraft” across platforms will transform the “Minecraft” experience everywhere from a game to a platform, providing simple access to massive community servers, community creations from the Minecraft Marketplace, Realms, dedicated servers and more. The team also announced the Super Duper Graphics Pack, a new optional upgrade for in-game visuals in stunning true 4K HDR.
“ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE – WORLD PREMIERE). From the creators of the multi-award-winning “Ori and the Blind Forest” comes the highly anticipated sequel, “Ori and the Will of the Wisps.” Embark on an all-new adventure to discover the mysteries beyond the forest of Nibel, uncover the hidden truths of those lost and unravel Ori’s true destiny.
“PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS” (CONSOLE LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE). “PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS” is a tactical, last-man-standing shooter being developed with community feedback where players must fight to locate weapons and supplies in a massive 8x8 km island to be the lone survivor.
“SEA OF THIEVES” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE). Developed by Rare, the legendary creators of Perfect Dark” and “Banjo-Kazooie,” “Sea of Thieves” is an immersive, shared-world adventure game filled with pirates, unexpected dangers and loot for the taking. Explore, fight and live the pirate life together in a unique co-op experience that combines the thrill of adventuring together with friends with the unpredictability of a shared ocean and its threats, both from other players and the world itself. Available worldwide as an Xbox Play Anywhere title in early 2018.
“STATE OF DECAY 2” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE). “State of Decay 2” is the ultimate zombie survival fantasy game, where you build a lasting community in an open world filled with hostile zombies, human enemies and the valuable gear necessary to keep your community alive. Play solo or invite up to three friends in multiplayer co-op to overcome challenges and survive as a group while defining your own unique story. Your choices shape the identity of your community, ensuring that no two stories are alike — and remember, once you lose a survivor, they’re gone forever thanks to the return of permadeath in “State of Decay 2.” Available worldwide as an Xbox Play Anywhere title in spring 2018.
“SUPER LUCKY’S TALE” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE – WORLD PREMIERE). Developed by Playful Corp., “Super Lucky’s Tale” is a delightful, playground platformer for all ages that follows Lucky, the ever-optimistic, energetic and lovable hero, on his quest to find his inner strength and help his sister rescue the Book of Ages. Along the way, encounter a hilarious supporting cast of friends and adversaries. Available worldwide on Nov. 7 as an Xbox Play Anywhere title alongside the launch of Xbox One X.
“TACOMA” (CONSOLE LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE). The second game from Fullbright, creators of the critically acclaimed “Gone Home,” “Tacoma” puts you in control of Amy Ferrier, an independent contractor sent to Lunar Transfer Station Tacoma to recover sensitive data. As she explores the station, she unearths why the previous crew of six have been evacuated, gathering clues to what exactly went wrong. Like “Gone Home,” it’s a game where you pull details of the narrative from the environment, both physical and digital. “Tacoma” is a story about people and relationships, even in the isolation of outer space. Available Aug. 2 on Xbox One and Windows 10.

Bethesda E3 2017 live stream

Bethesda E3 2017 live stream


BethesdaLand is open for E3 business today!

Check out the 2017 Bethesda E3 press conference below, for more details on a new Wolfenstein, the latest from the Elder Scrolls, Starfield and maybe the Evil Within 2....

Watch live video from Bethesda on www.twitch.tv

Truman: DVD Review

Truman: DVD Review


Released by Madman Home Ent

Bathed in a laconic humanity and blessed with a universal veracity, the friendship bond explored in Truman is touching to say the least.

It's the story of Julian (Ricardo Darin) and Tomas (Javier Camara)- long time best friends and who live in different countries. At the start, Tomas leaves Canada to go see Julian in Spain because of his friend's terminal diagnosis.


With just 4 days, Tomas' arrival stirs some life in stage actor Julian, who's dealing with the diagnosis....

Whereas the desire with films of this ilk is to dwell on the maudlin and drown in the mawkish, Truman's 4 day trip feels more truthful in its execution and consequently more uplifting because of its honesty. There are layered performances from the personable leads here, and both add to the film's sense of dignity and class throughout.

As the catalyst for the reconnection of the two friends simmers, the light that one fires up in the other is easy to understand.

While Julian wonders what will become of his pooch, the titular Truman, and tries to get him adopted, his friend offers the kind of support and the sturdy shoulder to rely on that many of us would hope for in a similar situation.

But as the tale plays out, the bond is evident and the general underplaying works wonders to engage with the duo. There's a playful dry humour running through but never at the expense of the protagonists or situation as it unfurls.


However, it's the empathy of the film and the natural low key performance of the actors within that proves to be the winning factor in Truman (even if Tomas' actions at the end make him a little reprehensible).

Truman offers a surprisingly successful low key buddy flick that resonates; it's a film that works the understated to great beneficial effect and its touching nature may stay with you long after the lights have gone up.

Sunday, 11 June 2017

Bethesda E3 press conference 2017

Bethesda E3 press conference 2017


It's E3 time again!

And here is the Bethesda E3 press conference 2017 for you to enjoy!


Watch live video from Bethesda on www.twitch.tv

XBox E3 2017 conference

XBox E3 2017 conference


It's E3 2017 time again and that means gamers everywhere are getting a little bit excited!

Xbox will also be at E3 and for the first time their briefing will be in 4K!

You can watch the E3 XBox 2017 live conference below:

Watch live video from Xbox on www.twitch.tv

I, Daniel Blake: DVD Review

I, Daniel Blake: DVD Review


Released by Sony Home Ent

That I Daniel Blake is book-ended with the voice of its titular hero is no shock.

But that its ending and beginning convey such a dichotomy of feelings is equally no surprise.

The Palme D'Or winner from Brit socialist director Ken Loach is riddled with his usual concerns and stylistic touches. This time tackling the failings of society from two singular viewpoints, Loach has once again exacerbated the increasing common human condition in a world where the state is failing those around them, and they in turn are losing their grip on humanity.

Dave Johns is the ordinary everyman widower and Newcastle resident Daniel Blake stuck in a swirling vortex of increasing lunatic bureaucracy, swimming against a tide of pencil pushers and call centre bound helpers who seem determined to break his spirit.


Set against a backdrop of a council estate where grey is the default colour setting, and recovering from a heart attack and facing the prospect of his benefit being stopped, Daniel finds he is out of touch with the world after spending umpteen years working as a carpenter.

Now faced with online forms, the incessant tide of red tape and a lack of human compassion, Blake's trip to a job centre sees him help a just-moved-to Tyneside Londoner Katie ( Hayley Squires) whose facing similar issues with benefits agencies.

A burgeoning friendship grows between the pair, but the forces of the world are conspiring against them - and despite rallying cries to each for support, this is a battle that only the state can appear to win.

Blessed with a quiet determination and a rallying fanfare for the common man and decency all round, I, Daniel Blake is a study of society teetering, albeit one that's peppered with Loach's masterful eye for humour in the absurdity of life.

Much like 2014 NZIFF entry Still Life with the wonderful Eddie Marsan, I, Daniel Blake presents a salutary look to the solitary man, doing the decent thing when the world around him conspires against him.


You'd have to be a complete Loach virgin to not know where the story is going, but its strength lies in its central performance; Johns is very much the man we all aspire to be. A good neighbour, a friend when in need and a thoroughly decent bloke, the gradual beating down of the man is the film's rallying cry and it's all the more tragic for it.

It would be easy to milk I Daniel Blake for easy wins, and Loach never takes that approach; the impending pathos of the situations as they unfold proffer unsettling parallels in the world we all currently find ourselves in. Granted, there's the protestor toward the end who unleashes a mouthful at the incumbent Tory UK government, but Loach's strength at this point is how incredibly restrained this tirade is - and how the audience would be baying for more as it plays out.

But the ultimate victory of I Daniel Blake is the central performances of the duo. Theirs is a relationship that basks in earnestness, that tries to weather the incoming storm and that provides a quiet poignancy as the denouement rumbles around.

Make no mistake though, this is a polemic of the common man through a prism of Loach - a warning and tribute of what a little dignity can achieve and a harkening back to a time when neighbours were to be treated with open arms, not viewed with suspicion and mistrust.
 

Wilbur The King In The Ring: Film Review

Wilbur The King In The Ring: Film Review


Director: J Ollie Lucks

Expanded out from its original Loading Docs short, Wilbur The King In The Ring's documentary has good intentions, and manages to showcase the good and the bad with equal aplomb.

Centring on overweight Wilbur McDougall, who's all positivity and self-effacing, the doco aims to capture life and a friendship that's been years in the making. When McDougall decides to undergo gastric band surgery as he's wrestled with his weight all of his life, his best friend decides to document the journey to ensure that it's captured for posterity.

However, it soon becomes clear that Lucks may have let the idea of a documentary and a certain direction for it cloud his judgement and perhaps, ultimately, his friendship.

If anything, Wilbur The King In The Ring is perhaps an inspirational piece for those who worry about their weight and their self-perception. McDougall's certainly got a self-deprecating way with words, which is captured by Lucks during the film's 2 year period, but it soon becomes clear that both the belligerence of the King wrestling persona and the reality of day-to-day Wilbur couldn't be more different.

But what Wilbur The King In The Ring reveals more of is the tests of friendship with Lucks' pursuit of an angle for the film causing a severe fracture in the friendship that's lasted more than a decade. It's here that the documentary becomes more interesting as the fly-on-the-wall approach captures something a little more mean-spirited than was perhaps intended.

Wilbur The King In The Ring really does become a health piece in the back half of its execution, but it also somewhat manages to feel a little padded out with less to say; there's a distinct feeling that perhaps there was more going on off camera than on, and the doco wobbles under the weight of what's left unsaid.

Thankfully though, with its magnetic subject and very down-to-earth portrayal of the psychology of obesity, Wilbur The King In The Ring manages to break free of its intentions to being a health showcase and becomes a fascinating study of control; of a director who wants to do one thing and of a subject who's having none of it.

Less rumble in the jungle and more tussle of the hearts and minds, it's an interesting observation into the psyche of a friendship - and because of this alone, it makes for a fascinating watch.

Telltale Games and Mojang Announce 'Minecraft: Story Mode - Season 2', Premiering July 11

Telltale Games and Mojang Announce 'Minecraft: Story Mode - Season 2', Premiering July 11

 
'Minecraft: Story Mode - Season 2' from Telltale Games and Mojang Premieres July 11 

  
The Cast and Characters Return for Five All-New Episodes of the Adventure Game Series Set in the Minecraft Universe

SAN RAFAEL, Calif., and STOCKHOLM, Sweden, June 7th, 2017 -- Award-winning developer and publisher of digital entertainment Telltale Games and world-renowned game developer Mojang today announced that Minecraft: Story Mode - Season 2 is in development and set to premiere with Episode 1: Hero in Residence for download starting July 11, 2017 on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC, Mac, iOS, and Android-based devices.
 
Minecraft: Story Mode - Season 2 continues Jesse's saga in a five-part, narrative-driven, episodic game series developed by Telltale in collaboration with Mojang and members of the Minecraft community. Though players' choices from the first season will carry over into season two, this new season will be accessible to both returning fans and newcomers alike. This second season will also include Telltale's unique multiplayer 'Crowd Play' feature, which allows friends and family to engage with the adventure together by helping to decide the direction of the story from any mobile device with an online connection.

Now that Jesse and the gang have vanquished the Wither Storm, saved the world, and become totally super famous heroes, life has gotten a bit more...complicated. With more responsibilities and less time for adventure, old friendships have started to fade -- at least until Jesse's hand gets stuck in a creepy gauntlet that belongs to an ancient underwater temple. Together with old pals and new comrades alike, Jesse embarks on a brand new journey filled with tough choices, good times, and at least one temperamental llama.


This season will feature voice work from Patton Oswalt, Catherine Taber, Ashley Johnson, and Scott Porter, as well as cameos from Stampy Cat, stacyplays, and other personalities from the Minecraft community on YouTube. Additional casting details for the season are yet to be announced.
 
Season one of Minecraft: Story Mode was met with widespread critical acclaim. Polygon declared the series "a grand adventure in the universe of Minecraft," while Wired UK said it "brilliantly channels its source material." Kotaku UK called it "a triumph." The Guardian said the series "will delight Minecraft veterans young and old alike," while GameSpot called it "a charming, winning adventure for both fans and newbies to the world of Minecraft."
 
Minecraft: Story Mode - Season 2 will be a standalone product separate from both the core Minecraft game and season one of Minecraft: Story Mode. Season two will be available for download on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC, Mac, iOS, and Android-based devices. A retail version on disc will become available this fall. The series is currently in development and has not yet been rated by the ESRB.
 
For more information on Telltale Games, visit the official website,follow @TelltaleGames on Twitter, and like Telltale on Facebook.
 
For more information on Mojang, visit the official website, follow @Mojang and@Minecraft on Twitter, and like Minecraft on Facebook.

GTA Online: Gunning Trailer

GTA Online: Gunning Trailer



The manufacture and distribution of illegal arms comes to Southern San Andreas next week on Tuesday June 13th (Wednesday June 14th ANZ) in Gunrunning, the latest GTA Online update for PS4, Xbox One and PC.
Fortify a subterranean bunker, decimate your enemies in a Mobile Operations Center, wreak havoc in a new fleet of Weaponized Vehicles, and make your mark on the SA arms trade. 


Project Cars 2: E3 trailer

Project Cars 2: E3 trailer



Project CARS 2 brings the adrenaline of motorsport to the BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Booth at E3
Street date: 22ND September 2017 worldwide

Slightly Mad Studios and Bandai Namco Entertainment today announce that Project CARS 2 is slated for a worldwide release on the 22nd September 2017.
The most anticipated racing game of the year will also be playable at the Bandai Namco Entertainment Booth at E3 with the first public demo featuring multi-class action showcasing the newly optimized handling as well as revamped gamepad controls, this on the heels of the E3 trailer that presents the game’s “sandbox” approach to the overhauled career mode.

Click here to view the trailer on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xQlrRpiyy64

MULTI-CLASS ACTION
Passion for motorsport is embodied in the fan-requested multi-class racing that allows drivers to compete in a field of multiple car classes which replicates the world’s most famous endurance racing championships, past and present. Whether its iconic cars from the golden age of sportscars, modern prototypes, or GT3, all classes of car can now race together in either single or championship mode as Project CARS 2 scores the driver’s position not just overall, but also in-class.
Capturing all the thrills of motorsport means drivers competing in any car, anytime, anywhere, off- and-online, against both in-class competitors and other classes too.
Feel the adrenaline rush as you close-in fast on a GT race car in the coldness of night at Le Mans in your Le Mans Prototype; scan your mirrors on a wet day at the Nürburgring as a Porsche 911 GT3 R monster bursts from the fog and cuts past your Renault Clio as if you were standing still. This is motorsport in Project CARS 2.
CAREER MODE SHOWCASED BY E3 SIZZLE TRAILER
Showcasing the open structure of the Project CARS franchise, the E3 Sizzle trailer presents the game’s “sandbox” approach to its career mode that allows drivers an open path to achieving their motorsport dreams. Drivers can begin their motorsport career in grassroots series such as karts and race their way to the very top echelons where many of the world’s most prestigious brands and cars await; or they can choose to begin in any motorsport discipline; or even go straight into one particular type of motorsport, and spend one or multiple seasons in that championship. With 9 motorsport disciplines to choose from, a racing career has never been more rewarding or challenging.
OPTIMIZED HANDLING
Project CARS 2 delivers an unparalleled racing experience for players of all skill levels. Bleeding-edge visuals, precise car physics, revamped confidence-inspiring gamepad controls combined with advanced and newly refined tire grip and slip physics that provide drivers with optimized control and feel  in all situations, and enhanced, realistic A.I. make Project CARS 2 the most immersive and technically-advanced racing simulation on the planet.

Project CARS 2 is rated PEGI 3. The game will be released Worldwide on September 22nd 2017 for the PlayStation 4 system, Xbox One, and PC. Find out more and keep up-to-date at the official Project CARS 2website: http://www.projectcarsgame.com/ To learn more about BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Europe’s other products please go to: http://www.bandainamcoent.com or follow us on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/BandaiNamcoEU or join the conversation at https://twitter.com/BandaiNamcoEU.   

 

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