Films: 127 Hours (2010)

Dir: Danny Boyle

Cast: James Franco

Who doesn't love a movie based on the real life story of a triumph of the human spirit over adversity? Remember the Titans, Freedom Writers, Chariots of Fire. They're all great. Now, for me, 127 Hours joins that esteemed hall of fame.

Franco is joined by a handful of other actors throughout the film, though none gets more than a few moments of screen time. After all, the majority of the film is spent in one place - with Franco's character, Aron Ralston, wedged between boulders in a Utah canyon. Despite this, the film does not become boring or 'samey'. Under Boyle's direction, Franco is charismatic, likeable, and completely three dimensional. He goes through the full gamut of emotions from anger, to sadness, disbelief and deep regret.

Now, those who know about the story will of course know how Aron Ralston eventually freed himself and returned to civilization. It is not pretty, but it really happened, and Boyle pulls no punches. So, though graphic, it certainly conveys Ralston's desperation to survive and willingness to do so at any cost.

My rating: **** 4/5 stars

Recommendation: If you liked Tom Hanks in Cast Away, or Colin Farrell in Phone Booth then you'll love this!

For Aron Ralston's own story go to his blog here.

Films: The Eagle (2011)

Dir: Kevin McDonald
Cast: Channing Tatum, Jamie Bell, Donald Sutherland

It's a swords and sandals road movie. Of course!

In a nutshell, this film is about the treacherous journey which two young enemies undergo in order to regain lost honour. The men must cross Hadrian's Wall into the unknown and unforgiving northern territories of Britain in search of the lost golden eagle standard of Rome.

What I loved about this film was that it didn't try to be Gladiator, 300 or Ben Hur. Yes, there are some incredibly intense and 'epic' battle scenes. And yes, the guys all run around in skirts and sandals. But at it's core, this film is about the relationship between the two protagonists and it is wonderfully applicable and contemporary.

Tatum and Bell are two incredibly talented young actors and they hold your attention for the entire film. Their relationship is gripping, tense, uncertain and eventually very heartwarming. They both deliver incredible combat sequences as well as poignant emotional moments perfectly. And, lets face it, they both look great on screen too! Accompanied by some breathtaking landscapes, and a smattering of kooky characters speaking rustic languages, the film has a a great authenticity about it. McDonald made a conscious decision to limit the use of CGI and I think it really paid off.

My rating: **** 4/5 stars
Recommendation: A gripping and heart-felt movie about respect, honour and friendship, that takes itself a little too seriously at times, but just about gets away with it.

Films: Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)

I am getting pretty excited about the release of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy in the UK on September 16th. And I'll tell you why...

Cast:
Gary Oldman
Mark Strong
Tom Hardy
Benedict Cumberbatch
Colin Firth
Ciaran Hinds
John Hurt

THAT'S why! Great big British acting brilliance! There is quite literally nothing wrong with that cast. And if you don't know who they are, shame on you. Google them all this instant!

Here's the trailer for you to enjoy...
TinkerTailerSoldierSpy (YouTube link)

films: Remember Me

Quick catch up blog for y'all..
1. Yep, i'm still still an avid film watcher and part time insomniac.

2. I have just watched Remember Me, and would like to say on record, wow.

Okay, if im completely honest, my only interest in this film originally came out of a desire to catch Twilight heartthrob, Pattinson, not being able to act. Well, i couldn't have been wronger! This film was a total revelation for me. He is charismatic, sincere, natural and effortlessly charming (even when he's terrifying 10 year old school girls!).
On first appearances this film seems like an over analysed piece of self indulgence. However, in reality, it is gritty, painful and unsuspected. The cast of actors is well chosen; natural and likeable. The story builds to a climax which had me literally gasping in shock. Infact, it is so brave an ending that the film almost cannot carry it and, sort of, fizzles out in a sequence of short poignant scenes.
That aside, this is a deeply real and saddening story acted and executed expertly.
British boy Robert can be pleased as punch that there is life after vampirism.

My rating: **** 4/5 stars
Recommendation: Give it a chance - not too much pouting to be seen!

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