Hello All
I am about to go on holidays for 10 days and so this will be the last post for the year. I thought that I would use this post to look at great Christmas films that you and your family may want to enjoy over the Christmas/New Year season. In Australia the heat of the day usually requires people to move indoors and relax which allows for some quality movie time.
Our Christmas movie viewing would usually consist of at least one film that was sure to agitate my dad and have him pontificate about the injustices of the world. My mum called a halt to our bringing such films into the house after we brought home both Hotel Rwanda and The Insider one year as it was more than obvious we had done so purely for the purpose of having our dad entertain us with his longwinded speeches.
For those looking for more orthodox Christmas viewing, the following films are definitely worth a watch:
Bad Santa - Billy Bob Thornton is brilliant in this film. Time has not dented its appeal in anyway. Probably not one for small children.
Die Hard - one of the greatest action films of all time - if there is a big screen, it is definitely worth a watch.
It's a Wonderful Life - this is a beautiful classic that is generally shown on free to air around Christmas each year. Definitely worth a watch.
Scrooge - This version with Albert Finney is great viewing and is faithful to the Dickens novel, A Christmas Carol.
Scrooged - for the Bill Murray fans out there, this one is a good watch. It is a little dated now but he is great in this film.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas - this adaptation of the Dr Seuss book is really well done. Jim Carrey makes a great Grinch. A nice family film.
The Polar Express - this is a beautifully animated film and is very faithful to the book. It is a nice family film.
Love Actually - for those looking for a romantic Christmas film, this one is ok. Some nice performances.
The Nightmare Before Christmas - I enjoyed this animated film it is worth a watch. The story is a little kooky but it works.
Trading Places - A timeless comedy that also tends to make an appearance on free to air TV around this time of year. Quality cast, great script, wonderful viewing.
A Christmas Tale - this French film will appear to those who enjoy a quality family drama. It has a great cast and is quite realistic.
Black Christmas - for those that like horror/slasher movies, this one is worth a watch. Go for the original 1974 version over the 2006 remake. It is much scarier.
Eastern Promises - for those who like movies that operate on many levels, this David Cronenberg film is for you. It has a wonderful cast and is quite violent in parts and deserving of the R rating. That said, it is wonderful viewing.
Rare Exports - this Finnish film is a wonderful offbeat low budget watch. Without going into detail, all I will say is if you like offbeat films, this one is for you. Get your hands on a copy and watch it.
There are tons of other Christmas films out there but this is just a list to get you started. If there are any films that you like to watch at Christmas, let me know in the comments below.
I'll be back in 2014.
Tuesday 17 December 2013
Monday 16 December 2013
Shakespeare
Hello All
Today's post is about films that are either adaptations of Shakespeare's plays or Shakespeare's plays were the inspiration behind the film or screenplay.
Shakespearean plays adapted for the screen are revived every five or so years and are a great way to get younger generations to appreciate Shakespeare as a playwright. It appears that 2014 is going to see several of Shakespeare's plays brought back to life on the big screen and so I thought that I would use this post to look at certain versions that are worth viewing.
The Taming of the Shrew - this Franco Zeferelli adaptation of the play features Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Michael York. It is timeless and wonderful viewing. I have watched it many times and have enjoyed it each time.
10 Things I Hate About You - on the topic of the Shrew, this film is a modern take on the above mentioned play. It too is worth a watch. Great performances all round. Very entertaining and a great way to demonstrate how timeless Shakespeare is.
Hamlet - there are a couple of versions of Hamlet that I think are worth viewing. The first is the Kenneth Branagh version just because of the cast and the sets are wonderful.
Hamlet - the Michael Almereyda adaptation of the play also has a fairly strong cast and is a modern version of the play. What I like about this version is that Ethan Hawke is the right age to play Hamlet. Most versions of the film cast Hamlet as a much older man that he would have been in the actual play. It isn't quite as good as the Kenneth Branagh version but I believe it is worth a watch.
Rosencrantz & Guildenstein Are Dead - This adaptation of the Tom Stoppard play is wonderful and definitely worth a watch. Tim Roth, Gary Oldman and Richard Dreyfess are fantastic in their roles and it is as good now as it was when it was first released. Those familiar with Hamlet will truly enjoy this film.
Romeo + Juliet - I have included the Baz Luhrmann adaptation on the list because I think Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes are well cast in this film. The modernisation has dated somewhat since its release in 1996 but it is still great viewing.
West Side Story - the American gangland take on Romeo and Juliet is classic viewing. The music is wonderful and the cast are great in this film.
Tromeo and Juliet - for those that are looking for a truly unique take on Shakespeare, this one is for you. It won't be for everyone but I enjoyed it.
Much Ado About Nothing - Again, I have chosen the Kenneth Branagh version of this Shakespearean comedy. It is really well done. The cast and the setting are wonderful. Definitely worth a watch.
Richard III - I have chosen the Lawrence Olivier version of this play as the one that I think is worth watching. It has been remade since but I think Lawrence did a wonderful job at capturing the complexity of Richard's character. It is definitely worth viewing.
Macbeth - this 1971 Polanski version of Macbeth is really quite violent and while the music is now a little dated, the performances and direction are wonderful. It is engaging viewing.
The Merchant of Venice - this adaptation of the play has a wonderful cast. Al Pacino is a great Shylock, Jeremy Irons and Joseph Fiennes are also great. The location is also wonderful. Makes for good viewing but it is quite long.
Othello - I like this Oliver Parker version for the performance of Laurence Fishburn. It really is his movie and is definitely worth watching.
Othello - this version is a modern adaptation that I believe works and is also worth watching.
That's it for today. Do you have a favourite version of a Shakespearean play that isn't listed above? If so, please mention it in the comments below.
Today's post is about films that are either adaptations of Shakespeare's plays or Shakespeare's plays were the inspiration behind the film or screenplay.
Shakespearean plays adapted for the screen are revived every five or so years and are a great way to get younger generations to appreciate Shakespeare as a playwright. It appears that 2014 is going to see several of Shakespeare's plays brought back to life on the big screen and so I thought that I would use this post to look at certain versions that are worth viewing.
The Taming of the Shrew - this Franco Zeferelli adaptation of the play features Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Michael York. It is timeless and wonderful viewing. I have watched it many times and have enjoyed it each time.
10 Things I Hate About You - on the topic of the Shrew, this film is a modern take on the above mentioned play. It too is worth a watch. Great performances all round. Very entertaining and a great way to demonstrate how timeless Shakespeare is.
Hamlet - there are a couple of versions of Hamlet that I think are worth viewing. The first is the Kenneth Branagh version just because of the cast and the sets are wonderful.
Hamlet - the Michael Almereyda adaptation of the play also has a fairly strong cast and is a modern version of the play. What I like about this version is that Ethan Hawke is the right age to play Hamlet. Most versions of the film cast Hamlet as a much older man that he would have been in the actual play. It isn't quite as good as the Kenneth Branagh version but I believe it is worth a watch.
Rosencrantz & Guildenstein Are Dead - This adaptation of the Tom Stoppard play is wonderful and definitely worth a watch. Tim Roth, Gary Oldman and Richard Dreyfess are fantastic in their roles and it is as good now as it was when it was first released. Those familiar with Hamlet will truly enjoy this film.
Romeo + Juliet - I have included the Baz Luhrmann adaptation on the list because I think Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes are well cast in this film. The modernisation has dated somewhat since its release in 1996 but it is still great viewing.
West Side Story - the American gangland take on Romeo and Juliet is classic viewing. The music is wonderful and the cast are great in this film.
Tromeo and Juliet - for those that are looking for a truly unique take on Shakespeare, this one is for you. It won't be for everyone but I enjoyed it.
Much Ado About Nothing - Again, I have chosen the Kenneth Branagh version of this Shakespearean comedy. It is really well done. The cast and the setting are wonderful. Definitely worth a watch.
Richard III - I have chosen the Lawrence Olivier version of this play as the one that I think is worth watching. It has been remade since but I think Lawrence did a wonderful job at capturing the complexity of Richard's character. It is definitely worth viewing.
Macbeth - this 1971 Polanski version of Macbeth is really quite violent and while the music is now a little dated, the performances and direction are wonderful. It is engaging viewing.
The Merchant of Venice - this adaptation of the play has a wonderful cast. Al Pacino is a great Shylock, Jeremy Irons and Joseph Fiennes are also great. The location is also wonderful. Makes for good viewing but it is quite long.
Othello - I like this Oliver Parker version for the performance of Laurence Fishburn. It really is his movie and is definitely worth watching.
Othello - this version is a modern adaptation that I believe works and is also worth watching.
That's it for today. Do you have a favourite version of a Shakespearean play that isn't listed above? If so, please mention it in the comments below.
Sunday 15 December 2013
Drugs and Addiction
Hello All,
I hope you had a great weekend. Today's post is about movies that feature drug use and addiction. There are quite a number of good films that fit into this type. I don't want to include the Cheech and Chong style of film - they are really there own special breed. These are more movies that are anti-drug films or look at addiction as an issue. A few really good ones include:
Trainspotting - quite a good adaptation of the Irwin Welsh novel. Has a great soundtrack that works well in the film too.
Traffic - Steven Soderberg directs this wonderful ensemble cast. It really is a magnificent film.
Blow - Johnny Depp is magnificent in this film which is based on the life of George Jung.
The Man with the Golden Arm - this is an old Frank Sinatra film and is out of character for him but is definitely worth a watch.
Limitless - wonderful concept, brilliantly executed. I loved this film. Not really an anti-drug movie but I liked it so I am including it on the list.
Less than Zero - Being a child of the 80s I had to include this teen film starring a very young Robert Downy Jnr
Drugstore Cowboy - this is quite a realistic film that can be a bit of a challenge to watch. I enjoyed it. Matt Dillon is very good in this Gus Van Sant film.
The Panic in Needle Park - this is a depressing movie but worth watching for Pacino's performance. He is great in this film.
Requiem for a Dream - This film has wonderful performances all round. Again, it is a hard watch but worth it if you are up for a challenge.
Candy - this small Australian film features wonderful performances by Heath Ledger and Abbie Cornish. It is worth a watch but is quite an uncomfortable one to watch.
Little Fish - again, another Australian piece with a great cast. Cate Blanchett and Hugo Weaving in particular were very good in this film.
That's the list for today. Quite a short post. Do you have a favourite movie that is anti-drugs, if so, let me know in the comments below.
Thursday 12 December 2013
Trains
Today's post looks at movies that feature the train as being integral to the film. I love trains. What I love most about them when they do run on time is that you know how many stops there are between your departure and destination and roughly how long it should take to get there. With buses, there isn't as much certainty as to the travel time because of traffic and weather conditions.
That said, the following films feature trains and are, at least in my mind, worth a watch.
Murder on the Orient Express - the Agatha Christie movies are of a distinct type that I happen to enjoy. If you like Midsomer Murders and other such British murder mysteries, this film is for you. The cast are wonderful in the 1974 version.
Subway - this film is something of a cult classic. It has great action and is well worth a watch.
Source Code - I really enjoyed this movie. It is really well edited and a great watch.
The Polar Express - quite timely because Christmas is around the corner. This is a wonderful adaptation of a children's classic. Great family viewing.
Strangers on a Train - this Hitchcock film based on the Raymond Chandler novel of the same name has been referenced in numerous other television programs and films. It is definitely worth a watch.
Transsiberian - this is a wonderful suspense movie that deserves a higher rating than that given to it on imdb.
The Darjeeling Limited - this is a really wonderful film. The cast and the script work. Definitely worth a watch.
Unstoppable - pure popcorn entertainment. A good watch.
The Great Train Robbery - this film has a great cast and script. It really is a must see. Lots of fun to watch.
The Taking of Pelham One Two Three - my preference is for the 1974 version. The more recent ones don't work quite as well as this version. This film is an exciting thriller.
Before Sunrise - the first of the trilogy of films by Richard Linklater, this film is a wonderful romance movie for those that like dialogue pieces. Definitely worth a watch.
Speed - not technically a train movie, it does have a train section in it so I am including it in this post. That and it is one of my all-time favourite Keanu action films. Very easy to watch. Dennis Hopper rocks in this movie.
What about you? Do you have a favourite train movie? If so, let me know in the comments below.
That said, the following films feature trains and are, at least in my mind, worth a watch.
Murder on the Orient Express - the Agatha Christie movies are of a distinct type that I happen to enjoy. If you like Midsomer Murders and other such British murder mysteries, this film is for you. The cast are wonderful in the 1974 version.
Subway - this film is something of a cult classic. It has great action and is well worth a watch.
Source Code - I really enjoyed this movie. It is really well edited and a great watch.
The Polar Express - quite timely because Christmas is around the corner. This is a wonderful adaptation of a children's classic. Great family viewing.
Strangers on a Train - this Hitchcock film based on the Raymond Chandler novel of the same name has been referenced in numerous other television programs and films. It is definitely worth a watch.
Transsiberian - this is a wonderful suspense movie that deserves a higher rating than that given to it on imdb.
The Darjeeling Limited - this is a really wonderful film. The cast and the script work. Definitely worth a watch.
Unstoppable - pure popcorn entertainment. A good watch.
The Great Train Robbery - this film has a great cast and script. It really is a must see. Lots of fun to watch.
The Taking of Pelham One Two Three - my preference is for the 1974 version. The more recent ones don't work quite as well as this version. This film is an exciting thriller.
Before Sunrise - the first of the trilogy of films by Richard Linklater, this film is a wonderful romance movie for those that like dialogue pieces. Definitely worth a watch.
Speed - not technically a train movie, it does have a train section in it so I am including it in this post. That and it is one of my all-time favourite Keanu action films. Very easy to watch. Dennis Hopper rocks in this movie.
What about you? Do you have a favourite train movie? If so, let me know in the comments below.
Wednesday 11 December 2013
Australian Classics - Part One
Hello All, given I am heading to Australia for the Christmas break, I thought I would dedicate today's post to Australian films. As an Australian, I have watched several Australian films not only to support the Australian film industry, but because I genuinely enjoy watching them. I have listed below a few of my favourites. This is by no means a complete list because there are a lot of Australian films that I think are worth viewing.
Ten Canoes - I have a confession to make with regards to this film. I fell asleep in the last 10 minutes. The reason I fell asleep is that we had been renovating our house all day and went to the 9.30pm session of the film in the cinema. That said, it is a remarkable film and gives wonderful insight into the Aboriginal way of life.
The Castle - This is an Australian classic. Well worth a watch.
The Sapphires - it was the highest grossing Australian film of last year. Definitely worth a watch. Based on a true story.
Lantana - this is a wonderful Australian film. The performances by the cast are excellent.
Shine - the film that made Geoffrey Rush an international household name. Wonderful viewing.
Occasional Course Language - I love this film because it is set in the inner west of Sydney which is where I lived and worked for a while. It didn't do much at the box office but is a good film and an easy watch.
Gallipoli - I love Peter Weir movies and this one is a great one.
Red Dog - this is a fun Australian movie that has a great script - easy to watch.
The Year my Voice Broke - this is a beautiful coming of age movie as is its sequel, Flirting. Wonderful performances all round.
Muriel's Wedding - This film is a wonderful comedy. Well worth a watch.
Tomorrow, when the war began - this film has great performances from a young cast.
My Brilliant Career - this Gillian Armstrong film has held well over time. Still worth a watch.
The Man from Snowy River - this film is based on a poem by Banjo Paterson. It is beautiful to watch. Definitely one for those who have a big screen TV.
Oyster Farmer - this film is a wonderful little film. Definitely worth a watch.
The Heartbreak Kid - not to be confused with the Ben Stiller film. This is a heartwarming coming of age movie that spawned a TV series.
The Chant of Jimmy Blacksmith - this film is quite a confronting film to watch but is engaging viewing.
Australian Rules - this too is a confronting film. Wonderful performances all round and it makes for excellent viewing.
The Big Steal - this is a great easy film to watch.
Chopper - this is not an easy film to watch. It launched Eric Bana as a serious actor and out of his previous role as a comedian.
Strictly Ballroom - this is the film that made Baz Luhrmann a household name. It is a fun watch.
There are a lot of others that I could include on this list that I haven't and will save for a future list. Do you have a favourite Australian film? If so, list it below.
Ten Canoes - I have a confession to make with regards to this film. I fell asleep in the last 10 minutes. The reason I fell asleep is that we had been renovating our house all day and went to the 9.30pm session of the film in the cinema. That said, it is a remarkable film and gives wonderful insight into the Aboriginal way of life.
The Castle - This is an Australian classic. Well worth a watch.
The Sapphires - it was the highest grossing Australian film of last year. Definitely worth a watch. Based on a true story.
Lantana - this is a wonderful Australian film. The performances by the cast are excellent.
Shine - the film that made Geoffrey Rush an international household name. Wonderful viewing.
Occasional Course Language - I love this film because it is set in the inner west of Sydney which is where I lived and worked for a while. It didn't do much at the box office but is a good film and an easy watch.
Gallipoli - I love Peter Weir movies and this one is a great one.
Red Dog - this is a fun Australian movie that has a great script - easy to watch.
The Year my Voice Broke - this is a beautiful coming of age movie as is its sequel, Flirting. Wonderful performances all round.
Muriel's Wedding - This film is a wonderful comedy. Well worth a watch.
Tomorrow, when the war began - this film has great performances from a young cast.
My Brilliant Career - this Gillian Armstrong film has held well over time. Still worth a watch.
The Man from Snowy River - this film is based on a poem by Banjo Paterson. It is beautiful to watch. Definitely one for those who have a big screen TV.
Oyster Farmer - this film is a wonderful little film. Definitely worth a watch.
The Heartbreak Kid - not to be confused with the Ben Stiller film. This is a heartwarming coming of age movie that spawned a TV series.
The Chant of Jimmy Blacksmith - this film is quite a confronting film to watch but is engaging viewing.
Australian Rules - this too is a confronting film. Wonderful performances all round and it makes for excellent viewing.
The Big Steal - this is a great easy film to watch.
Chopper - this is not an easy film to watch. It launched Eric Bana as a serious actor and out of his previous role as a comedian.
Strictly Ballroom - this is the film that made Baz Luhrmann a household name. It is a fun watch.
There are a lot of others that I could include on this list that I haven't and will save for a future list. Do you have a favourite Australian film? If so, list it below.
Monday 9 December 2013
Spies
Hello All
Today's post is one for Spy movie enthusiasts. There are quite a number of great spy films out there. Including some of the James Bond films, as some James Bond's are better than others, ones that I think are worth watching include:
Casino Royale - this is our first glimpse of Daniel Craig as the new James Bond and he really doesn't disappoint. It is a great action/spy movie.
Moonraker
You Only Live Twice - Sean Connery was a great James Bond and there are several of his films that are worth viewing. I have included a couple of my favourites here. This being the first of them.
Goldfinger - for the Shirley Bassey soundtrack, and absolutely sexist named bond girls if nothing else. This film is a classic Sean Connery James.
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy - this is a great adaptation of the book by John Le Carre. Gary Oldman and Colin Firth are brilliant in this film
Spies Like Us - for those that like a bit of humour, this film is just a bit of fun. Dan Ackroyd and Chevy Chase are quite good. A good but not great light hearted film.
Three Days of the Condor - this Sydney Pollack film has stood the test of time well. Great performances, especially by Robert Redford. Engaging viewing.
The Manchurian Candidate - there was a remake of this film made in 2004 but my preference is for the original. The cast of the original led by Frank Sinatra worked really well together and the film is incredibly engaging.
True Lies - what makes this film is Jamie Lee Curtis and the dynamic having her character in the film. It is a lot of fun and makes for easy Friday night viewing.
Traitor - as I have mentioned in a previous post, you cannot go wrong with Don Cheadle. He and Guy Pearce are wonderful in this film.
Notorious - because I felt the list should include a Hitchcock movie. Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman are wonderful in this film.
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery - the first of these films is easily the best. Just a lot of fun.
The Lives of Others - this is a wonderful German Film. Deserving of all the awards it has won and definitely worth a watch.
The Quiet American - I am a big fan of Graeme Greene and this film is quite a good adaptation of his novel. It makes for engaging viewing.
Top Secret! - this is a fun movie. It doesn't take itself at all seriously and is engaging viewing because it doesn't. A fun watch.
That's it for the list today. Any spy movies that you think I should have included? Let me know in the comments below.
Today's post is one for Spy movie enthusiasts. There are quite a number of great spy films out there. Including some of the James Bond films, as some James Bond's are better than others, ones that I think are worth watching include:
Casino Royale - this is our first glimpse of Daniel Craig as the new James Bond and he really doesn't disappoint. It is a great action/spy movie.
Moonraker
You Only Live Twice - Sean Connery was a great James Bond and there are several of his films that are worth viewing. I have included a couple of my favourites here. This being the first of them.
Goldfinger - for the Shirley Bassey soundtrack, and absolutely sexist named bond girls if nothing else. This film is a classic Sean Connery James.
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy - this is a great adaptation of the book by John Le Carre. Gary Oldman and Colin Firth are brilliant in this film
Spies Like Us - for those that like a bit of humour, this film is just a bit of fun. Dan Ackroyd and Chevy Chase are quite good. A good but not great light hearted film.
Three Days of the Condor - this Sydney Pollack film has stood the test of time well. Great performances, especially by Robert Redford. Engaging viewing.
The Manchurian Candidate - there was a remake of this film made in 2004 but my preference is for the original. The cast of the original led by Frank Sinatra worked really well together and the film is incredibly engaging.
True Lies - what makes this film is Jamie Lee Curtis and the dynamic having her character in the film. It is a lot of fun and makes for easy Friday night viewing.
Traitor - as I have mentioned in a previous post, you cannot go wrong with Don Cheadle. He and Guy Pearce are wonderful in this film.
Notorious - because I felt the list should include a Hitchcock movie. Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman are wonderful in this film.
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery - the first of these films is easily the best. Just a lot of fun.
The Lives of Others - this is a wonderful German Film. Deserving of all the awards it has won and definitely worth a watch.
The Quiet American - I am a big fan of Graeme Greene and this film is quite a good adaptation of his novel. It makes for engaging viewing.
Top Secret! - this is a fun movie. It doesn't take itself at all seriously and is engaging viewing because it doesn't. A fun watch.
That's it for the list today. Any spy movies that you think I should have included? Let me know in the comments below.
Sunday 8 December 2013
Cars, Cars, Cars
Given the death of Paul Walker last week, I thought I would dedicate today's post to movies that feature cars. For those that are unfamiliar with Paul Walker, he shot to fame largely through The Fast and the Furious Franchise of films. The films are not high art or really high quality viewing but if you are after popcorn action and like car chases then The Fast and the Furious films will appeal to you.
Other films that have great car scenes are:
Bullitt - no list about cars should be without at least one Steve McQueen movie. This one is probably his most famous and is very easy viewing.
Days of Thunder - I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of Tom Cruise but while I was working in the video shop, this was a favourite film of a fellow employee and he would watch parts of it after 10pm on a Saturday night when the shop really quietened down. It is a good Tony Scott film, not his best work.
Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby - if you are after a fun laugh that is easy to watch, this film is for you. It is really a film that does not take itself seriously.
The Blues Brothers - this film was a flop when it was released but it has some quality old school car chases in it. Also has a wonderful soundtrack and is easy viewing.
The Matrix: Reloaded - I recommend watching the first one before watching the sequel because it will explain a lot of the story. That said, there are some great car scenes in this film.
Bad Boys II - one of the best car chases I have seen in a while. Definitely worth a watch. Fun viewing and if you have a big screen and surround sound, this film is excellent to watch.
The Chase - this fun Charlie Sheen movie has a great cast and a good script. It doesn't take itself seriously and if you are in the mood for light hearted entertainment, this one is for you.
Love the Beast - this Australian documentary is really made with car fanatics in mind but it really does appeal to a wider audience as the film transcends the subject matter. Highly engaging viewing.
The Great Race - this 1965 film has a great cast and makes for easy Saturday afternoon viewing. Just a light hearted comedy.
Vanishing Point - this is a great film from the 1970s. A real classic. Definitely worth a watch.
Cars - this is a great animated children's film that is fun for the whole family. Great cast, script and easy to watch.
The Italian Job - my preference is for the remake over the original but both versions are worth watching.
Tucker: The Man and His Dream - this film is based on a true story and is really well done. Engaging viewing.
The Cannonball Run - this is just a fun film. Please don't look for reality in this film or it will spoil your experience.
Mad Max - this Australian film is something of a cult classic that spawned no less than 2 sequels and gave George Miller a foot into Hollywood. It is fun viewing and features quite a young Mel Gibson.
The Transporter - this is Jason Statham doing what Jason Statham does well. If you like his character in either Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels or The Italian Job, chances are you will enjoy this film and its sequels.
The Bourne Supremacy - this is one rare occasion where I enjoyed the sequel more than the original although all three Matt Damon Bourne films are wonderful viewing. It has a great car scene and a wonderful cast.
Rush - despite poor reviews, this is quite a good film and definitely worth viewing if you like car movies and especially if you are a fan of F1.
That's it for today's post. Do you have a favourite car movie or think any of these films should not be on the list? If so, let me know in the comments below.
Other films that have great car scenes are:
Bullitt - no list about cars should be without at least one Steve McQueen movie. This one is probably his most famous and is very easy viewing.
Days of Thunder - I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of Tom Cruise but while I was working in the video shop, this was a favourite film of a fellow employee and he would watch parts of it after 10pm on a Saturday night when the shop really quietened down. It is a good Tony Scott film, not his best work.
Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby - if you are after a fun laugh that is easy to watch, this film is for you. It is really a film that does not take itself seriously.
The Blues Brothers - this film was a flop when it was released but it has some quality old school car chases in it. Also has a wonderful soundtrack and is easy viewing.
The Matrix: Reloaded - I recommend watching the first one before watching the sequel because it will explain a lot of the story. That said, there are some great car scenes in this film.
Bad Boys II - one of the best car chases I have seen in a while. Definitely worth a watch. Fun viewing and if you have a big screen and surround sound, this film is excellent to watch.
The Chase - this fun Charlie Sheen movie has a great cast and a good script. It doesn't take itself seriously and if you are in the mood for light hearted entertainment, this one is for you.
Love the Beast - this Australian documentary is really made with car fanatics in mind but it really does appeal to a wider audience as the film transcends the subject matter. Highly engaging viewing.
The Great Race - this 1965 film has a great cast and makes for easy Saturday afternoon viewing. Just a light hearted comedy.
Vanishing Point - this is a great film from the 1970s. A real classic. Definitely worth a watch.
Cars - this is a great animated children's film that is fun for the whole family. Great cast, script and easy to watch.
The Italian Job - my preference is for the remake over the original but both versions are worth watching.
Tucker: The Man and His Dream - this film is based on a true story and is really well done. Engaging viewing.
The Cannonball Run - this is just a fun film. Please don't look for reality in this film or it will spoil your experience.
Mad Max - this Australian film is something of a cult classic that spawned no less than 2 sequels and gave George Miller a foot into Hollywood. It is fun viewing and features quite a young Mel Gibson.
The Transporter - this is Jason Statham doing what Jason Statham does well. If you like his character in either Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels or The Italian Job, chances are you will enjoy this film and its sequels.
The Bourne Supremacy - this is one rare occasion where I enjoyed the sequel more than the original although all three Matt Damon Bourne films are wonderful viewing. It has a great car scene and a wonderful cast.
Rush - despite poor reviews, this is quite a good film and definitely worth viewing if you like car movies and especially if you are a fan of F1.
That's it for today's post. Do you have a favourite car movie or think any of these films should not be on the list? If so, let me know in the comments below.
Tuesday 3 December 2013
Gay
I was reading in the Sydney Morning Herald this morning that a couple of celebrities have admitted to being in same sex relationships while avoiding the term gay. I think that it is a shame in this day and age that people can't be honest about who they are without most of society shaming or thinking less of them based on their sexual preference.
Major case in point is Matt Bomer. The guy is quite honestly the devil's gift to women. I know I said that I wouldn't include anything from films but this portion didn't make it into Magic Mike and so I feel I am not breaking my rules by including it here. I am a big fan of the White Collar TV series and his character in it, Neal, is incredibly complex and Matt really nails his complexity that would have evolved from a troubled past. Season 5 hasn't hit the screens here in Asia as yet and I am looking forward to it.
Matt is openly gay and in a relationship that includes children. I think he is really a pioneer for creating a greater amount of tolerance in society because his children and their friends are going to grow up with this type of family as normal.
Enough about my opinions on the subject. Needless to say, today's post is about gay films that are worth watching and there are several, too many to include in one post. Starting with the more well known ones:
Brokeback Mountain - arguably one of the most stunning Ang Lee films ever made. The entire cast are wonderful in this film.
The Wedding Banquet - Another Ang Lee masterpiece. I really love this comedy. It is a great watch.
Philadelphia - this film really made me cry. Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington are wonderful in this film.
Milk - Sean Penn is a wonderful actor and really deserved the oscar for his performance in this Gus Van Sant Film.
Chasing Amy - This really is one of Kevin Smith's better films. The script and the acting are quite good. There are some really classic scenes worth watching in this film.
And the band played on - this film is incredibly well done and is great viewing.
Priest - this British film made me cry so much. It is so much more than a gay movie. Really engaging viewing and raises some really interesting questions. Great film for discussion.
Bound - a fun thriller that makes for easy viewing.
Swoon - this is a pretty good crime film. I admit that it won't appeal to everyone. The techniques used in the film can be quite confronting to the viewer and it is in black and white. I enjoyed it.]
The Adventures of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert - This is a great Australian film that spawned an equally successful stage musical. It is definitely worth watching.
The Sum of Us - I like this film. It is one of Russell Crowe's earlier works and he and Jack Thompson are great in this film. It has a great script, is very Australian and is a good watch.
Ma Vie En Rose - This Belgian film is excellent. It is great viewing and quite challenging for some people. Definitely worth watching.
Head On - this Australian film is quite confronting viewing. That said, the performances are excellent.
Happy Together - this Wong Kar Wai film is beautiful but challenging to watch. Really wonderful acting and of a very high standard.
That's it for today. Are there any that I should include on the list that I have missed, let me know.
Major case in point is Matt Bomer. The guy is quite honestly the devil's gift to women. I know I said that I wouldn't include anything from films but this portion didn't make it into Magic Mike and so I feel I am not breaking my rules by including it here. I am a big fan of the White Collar TV series and his character in it, Neal, is incredibly complex and Matt really nails his complexity that would have evolved from a troubled past. Season 5 hasn't hit the screens here in Asia as yet and I am looking forward to it.
Matt is openly gay and in a relationship that includes children. I think he is really a pioneer for creating a greater amount of tolerance in society because his children and their friends are going to grow up with this type of family as normal.
Enough about my opinions on the subject. Needless to say, today's post is about gay films that are worth watching and there are several, too many to include in one post. Starting with the more well known ones:
Brokeback Mountain - arguably one of the most stunning Ang Lee films ever made. The entire cast are wonderful in this film.
The Wedding Banquet - Another Ang Lee masterpiece. I really love this comedy. It is a great watch.
Philadelphia - this film really made me cry. Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington are wonderful in this film.
Milk - Sean Penn is a wonderful actor and really deserved the oscar for his performance in this Gus Van Sant Film.
Chasing Amy - This really is one of Kevin Smith's better films. The script and the acting are quite good. There are some really classic scenes worth watching in this film.
And the band played on - this film is incredibly well done and is great viewing.
Priest - this British film made me cry so much. It is so much more than a gay movie. Really engaging viewing and raises some really interesting questions. Great film for discussion.
Bound - a fun thriller that makes for easy viewing.
Swoon - this is a pretty good crime film. I admit that it won't appeal to everyone. The techniques used in the film can be quite confronting to the viewer and it is in black and white. I enjoyed it.]
The Adventures of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert - This is a great Australian film that spawned an equally successful stage musical. It is definitely worth watching.
The Sum of Us - I like this film. It is one of Russell Crowe's earlier works and he and Jack Thompson are great in this film. It has a great script, is very Australian and is a good watch.
Ma Vie En Rose - This Belgian film is excellent. It is great viewing and quite challenging for some people. Definitely worth watching.
Head On - this Australian film is quite confronting viewing. That said, the performances are excellent.
Happy Together - this Wong Kar Wai film is beautiful but challenging to watch. Really wonderful acting and of a very high standard.
That's it for today. Are there any that I should include on the list that I have missed, let me know.
Monday 2 December 2013
Clothes Horses
I was watching the History Channel last night and they are currently promoting a mini-series directed by Bruce Beresford called Bonnie and Clyde. What struck me about the commercial was the clothing that Bonnie was wearing and just how beautiful it was.
The promotions have inspired today's post which is about films that have great fashion in them and are worth viewing.
Barbarella - This Jane Fonda classic directed by Roger Vadim features some beautiful 1960s designer garb. The film itself is a lot of fun and not something that should be taken seriously.
Breakfast at Tiffany's - this Audrey Hepburn classic cemented the woman as a style icon. The clothes are just as wearable now as they were then.
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes - this Howard Hawks musical is a classic and is just as relevant now as it was at the time of its release in the 1950s. Truly a wonderful era of women's clothes.
The Cook, The Thief, His Wife & Her Lover - this Peter Greenaway film will not appeal to everyone. Jean Paul Gaultier did the costumes in the film and they are beautiful. I happened to enjoy this film.
The Fifth Element - again, Jean Paul Gaultier did the costumes in this film. It is a personal favourite of mine and is very easy to watch.
Pretty Woman - some of the fashion is a little dated now but this cute romantic comedy reignited Richard Gere's career and cemented Julia Roberts as an up and coming star.
Pret-A-Porter - this Robert Altman film is wonderful and seen in the right light is incredibly funny. The fashion in the film is beautiful and definitely worth seeing.
Priceless - this beautiful French comedy is a great watch, not just for the fashion. The acting, script and story are also wonderful.
The September Issue - no film list about fashion would be complete without this documentary. It is really well done and worth a watch.
Valentino: The Last Emperor - this one is really for the die hard fashion fans and won't appeal to everyone. It has some beautiful clothes throughout the film and gives some insight into the fashion industry.
The Devil Wears Prada - Anne Hathaway looks stunning in this film. Definitely features some wonderful clothes. Emily Blunt and Meryl Streep are also wonderful in this film. Very easy to watch.
The Great Gatsby - I was a little disappointed with this film by Baz Luhrmann - I thought he could have given the audience a little more credit and let the pictures tell the story more than he did. That said, the clothes in the film are wonderful and the film is watchable.
In the Mood for Love - this Hong Kong film by Wong Kar Wai is incredibly slow but it has some really beautiful Asian clothes in it. I enjoyed it but you have to be in the mood to watch something that takes its time to unfold.
Anna Karenina - This stylised film is worth a watch for the costumes and art direction alone. I am a big fan of the book and it is hard to fit everything in the book into the film. This really just takes one part of the book and runs with it. It is pretty good viewing.
Zoolander - this film is incredibly funny and some of the fashion in it is wonderful. The cast are really good and know how to play in the space so to speak. Great cameos throughout.
That's it for today's post. Are there any films that you like watching for the clothes worn by the actors?
The promotions have inspired today's post which is about films that have great fashion in them and are worth viewing.
Barbarella - This Jane Fonda classic directed by Roger Vadim features some beautiful 1960s designer garb. The film itself is a lot of fun and not something that should be taken seriously.
Breakfast at Tiffany's - this Audrey Hepburn classic cemented the woman as a style icon. The clothes are just as wearable now as they were then.
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes - this Howard Hawks musical is a classic and is just as relevant now as it was at the time of its release in the 1950s. Truly a wonderful era of women's clothes.
The Cook, The Thief, His Wife & Her Lover - this Peter Greenaway film will not appeal to everyone. Jean Paul Gaultier did the costumes in the film and they are beautiful. I happened to enjoy this film.
The Fifth Element - again, Jean Paul Gaultier did the costumes in this film. It is a personal favourite of mine and is very easy to watch.
Pretty Woman - some of the fashion is a little dated now but this cute romantic comedy reignited Richard Gere's career and cemented Julia Roberts as an up and coming star.
Pret-A-Porter - this Robert Altman film is wonderful and seen in the right light is incredibly funny. The fashion in the film is beautiful and definitely worth seeing.
Priceless - this beautiful French comedy is a great watch, not just for the fashion. The acting, script and story are also wonderful.
The September Issue - no film list about fashion would be complete without this documentary. It is really well done and worth a watch.
Valentino: The Last Emperor - this one is really for the die hard fashion fans and won't appeal to everyone. It has some beautiful clothes throughout the film and gives some insight into the fashion industry.
The Devil Wears Prada - Anne Hathaway looks stunning in this film. Definitely features some wonderful clothes. Emily Blunt and Meryl Streep are also wonderful in this film. Very easy to watch.
The Great Gatsby - I was a little disappointed with this film by Baz Luhrmann - I thought he could have given the audience a little more credit and let the pictures tell the story more than he did. That said, the clothes in the film are wonderful and the film is watchable.
In the Mood for Love - this Hong Kong film by Wong Kar Wai is incredibly slow but it has some really beautiful Asian clothes in it. I enjoyed it but you have to be in the mood to watch something that takes its time to unfold.
Anna Karenina - This stylised film is worth a watch for the costumes and art direction alone. I am a big fan of the book and it is hard to fit everything in the book into the film. This really just takes one part of the book and runs with it. It is pretty good viewing.
Zoolander - this film is incredibly funny and some of the fashion in it is wonderful. The cast are really good and know how to play in the space so to speak. Great cameos throughout.
That's it for today's post. Are there any films that you like watching for the clothes worn by the actors?
Sunday 1 December 2013
Westerns
Hello All. I hope you had a lovely weekend. Today's post is that of the Western. There are several wonderful Western's out there worth watching. Below are a few of my favourites.
Django Unchained - I wasn't sure whether I would include this as a "western" per se but I love the film so have included it anyway.
True Grit - the Cohen Brothers did a wonderful job with this film. It is definitely worth watching.
Ulzana's Raid - I watched this when I was at university and it breaks pretty much every rule of a western. That said, it is phenomenal viewing.
The Searchers - The first of a couple of John Wayne movies that I think are worth viewing.
Stagecoach - this old John Ford movie is a classic. The script and cast are wonderful. Also features John Wayne.
Unforgiven - It took me a while to get around to seeing this one. It is quite a long film. That said, the film is beautiful to watch.
The Good, The Bad and the Ugly - Two reasons to watch this film - the first is that it is directed by Sergio Leone - the king of the spaghetti western, the second is Clint Eastwood is great in this film.
Cat Ballou - I really enjoyed this musical western. Jane Fonda and Lee Marvin are wonderful in this light hearted film.
Blazing Saddles - while on the comedic bend, this movie is a fun watch.
Last of the Mohicans - I like this film because it is breaks with Western convention and Daniel Day Lewis is great in it. It is quite a long film but if you like long movies then give it a go.
Gunfight at the O.K Corral - while it is incredibly loosely based on a true story, the cast are wonderful in this film.
Little Big Man - this is quite a long film but well worth a watch. The performances are wonderful.
City Slickers - I had to include this because I like Billy Crystal and this film made me giggle. Jack Palance is wonderful in this film. He steals the show at times.
My Name is Nobody - this Sergio Leone film is a great watch. Very funny. Loved it.
That's it for today. Do you have a favourite Western that is not on the list, let me know.
Django Unchained - I wasn't sure whether I would include this as a "western" per se but I love the film so have included it anyway.
True Grit - the Cohen Brothers did a wonderful job with this film. It is definitely worth watching.
Ulzana's Raid - I watched this when I was at university and it breaks pretty much every rule of a western. That said, it is phenomenal viewing.
The Searchers - The first of a couple of John Wayne movies that I think are worth viewing.
Stagecoach - this old John Ford movie is a classic. The script and cast are wonderful. Also features John Wayne.
Unforgiven - It took me a while to get around to seeing this one. It is quite a long film. That said, the film is beautiful to watch.
The Good, The Bad and the Ugly - Two reasons to watch this film - the first is that it is directed by Sergio Leone - the king of the spaghetti western, the second is Clint Eastwood is great in this film.
Cat Ballou - I really enjoyed this musical western. Jane Fonda and Lee Marvin are wonderful in this light hearted film.
Blazing Saddles - while on the comedic bend, this movie is a fun watch.
Last of the Mohicans - I like this film because it is breaks with Western convention and Daniel Day Lewis is great in it. It is quite a long film but if you like long movies then give it a go.
Gunfight at the O.K Corral - while it is incredibly loosely based on a true story, the cast are wonderful in this film.
Little Big Man - this is quite a long film but well worth a watch. The performances are wonderful.
City Slickers - I had to include this because I like Billy Crystal and this film made me giggle. Jack Palance is wonderful in this film. He steals the show at times.
My Name is Nobody - this Sergio Leone film is a great watch. Very funny. Loved it.
That's it for today. Do you have a favourite Western that is not on the list, let me know.
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