Sorry, no new posts this week

I've been a little occupied by the arrival of my new baby son shortly before Christmas! But check back in a few days for my New Year update.

WOIM

Night at the Museum (PG)

What’s it about?
Dreamer Larry (Ben Stiller) needs a job, any job so that he can keep on having access to see his son. Only he didn’t bargain on duties as a security guard on the graveyard shift at the local Museum of Natural History, literally being so lively.

Highs n lows
This is a great kids movie, with laughs a plenty for little and big kids alike. Well-known comedians such as Ben stiller, Dick Van Dyke, Mickey Rooney, Robin Williams, Ricky Gervais both captivate and keep the action moving.

Scenes to watch out for:
*The monkey slapping scene (after the Bacardi ad you might think this one’s been done to death – think again)
*T-Rex playing fetch, you’ll never look at the skeleton in the Natural History Museum in the same way again

Is it any good?
4 out of 5 - out in time for Christmas, so take the kids they’ll love it.

Islamic rape law quashed by Pakistan

In a landmark step forward for the rights of women in Pakistan, rape has been taken out of the sphere of religious law and put under the penal code as part of an amendment to the country's controversial rape statute, making it easier to try sexual assault cases.

This change has come about as a result of a 4 Year fight by Mukhtar Mai who instead of keeping silent in shame, fought and won her case against neighbours who gang raped her on the orders of a council of elders in June 2002, as punishment for the alleged dishonourable conduct of her then 12 year old brother. In the past rape was dealt with under Sharia law, where a rape victim could be prosecuted for adultery unless 4 male witnesses could testify to her ordeal.

The case sparked international outrage when it first came to light and has made Mukhtar Mai an international figure. Mukhtar has used her compensation to open a school in her village in the hope of changing attitudes, as she says “I believe education is the key to ending the cruelty I see around me every day".

Her story In the Name of Honour is to be published in February 2007.

Déjà vu (12A)

What’s it about?
ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms) agent investigates a terrorist bomb explosion using a 4 day window into the past.

Highs n lows
Some I know have been a bit critical about this new offering from Director Tony Scott, but you know what, I liked it. Okay you have to suspend belief, especially when it comes to the time travel part, but it’s a clever storyline following several time perspectives at once, with the action revealing just enough in each scene to keep you captivated. Denzel we know is used to playing cops, and doesn’t let us down as Carlin, and there’s enough explosives and special effects to keep the action junkies happy.

Is it plausible? Well, you’ve got to dream it first, ask Trekkie fans where the idea for the ipod came from …..

Is it any good?
3 out of 5. Out 15 Dec

The Birds and other stories – daphne du maurier

What’s it about?
Compendium of short stories starting with the Birds, the story which inspired Alfred Hitchcock’s chilling film of the same name. where after a harsh Winter birds start attacking humans. Other short stories are: Monte Verita, The Apple Tree, The Little Photographer, Kiss Me Again Stranger, and The Old Man.

Book vs film
A great idea and I can see why it appealed to Hitchcock. Being a short story there’s only so much that can go in, and in this case I’ve got to go for the film which is a lot meatier and scarier (although the characters aren’t the same). A classic Hitchcock horror, great in its day, but not of the ilk of other similar offerings like Psycho or Cujo for suspense.

As it’s only a few pages long I’d read the story out of interest. It has Du Maurier’s absorbingly evocative description and great character development. Combined with the slow but steady pace, the successful build up of tension climaxes in what for me was an unsatisfying ambiguous ending.

The rest of the stories are in a similar vein, a Twilight Zoneian mix of dark, supernatural tales. She is for good reason a classic writer and I wasn’t disappointed by the quality of the writing - highly atmospheric, and absorbing with well-rounded protagonists whose heads you literally climb into. However, as a group I ended up feeling the tales were a little too formulaic and I admit got a bit bored with the unfailingly steady pace of each story. I guess I’ve been spoilt with more modern writing which also relies on other techniques, like changes in pace and view point to keep a story moving.

For all that a quality read if you like something a little sinister.

Is it any good?
3 out of 5 for the book overall.

More controversy for OJ

So OJ Simpson’s back in the news and Rupert Murdoch’s fortunes have taken a bit of a dip courtesy of OJ’s new book ‘If I did it’ which was supposed to be released in the states before Christmas. Billed as a hypothetical story about how OJ would have committed the crime, if he had done it, it has been judged of poor taste by the American public. So much for innocent when proven not guilty.

The fierce media and bookshop backlash forced Murdoch to cancel the publication, interviews, and pulp stock. So I wouldn’t hold our breath waiting for copies to wing their way to the UK via Rupert Murdoch’s HarperCollins publishing arm.

As for OJ – he’s still got his fee and his face is back in the papers, I wonder if he sees the whole debacle as such a bad thing??

Hard Candy (18)

What’s it about?
School girl goes after internet paedophile to avenge a fellow student’s death.

Highs n lows
You’ll have to make an effort to stick with this one, it’s very slow to build to a climax and didn’t keep me gripped throughout. Told in short sections that take you from one unpalatable truth to another, climaxing in a hard line ending. This isn’t a blood soaked action packed movie, more disturbing suspense that relies on an intelligent script and character led development. If you are looking for a dose of gratuitous violence, forget it, but use your imagination and you get enough from the characters’ detailed descriptions of what they are doing to have you cringing without seeing so much as a knife.

Both lead characters Ellen Page (Haley) and Patrick Wilson (Jeff) come across as twisted as each other – no matter the rights and wrongs of their motives. Page is suitably sweet and chilling as the vigilante Hayley Stark, and Wilson is extremely convincing as her rational persuasive victim Jeff Kohlver. Your loyalties to the characters will be left in the balance until the end.

This will raise serious questions about the rights and wrongs of vigilanteism, corporal punishment, and underage sex. Personally I can’t condone the actions of either of the main characters, but watch it with friends – it’s sure to start a debate.

Is it any good?
3 out of 5 – moderate violence

Atomised – michel houllebecq

What’s it about?
Two half brothers’ lives, loves and hang-ups. Michel the withdrawn intellectual, and Bruno a sex obsessed loner, live totally separate lives that connect fleetingly at times of crisis in this dull chronicle of their lives.

Highs n lows
There’s been a lot of fuss about this winner of the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award, and having read it I have to ask WHY?!! Perhaps it’s because I’m not a man, or an Oxford graduate, but this disconnected chopping and changing between the lives of these two very unhappy and completely uninteresting characters left me cold.

To be fair though, I have to say this is exceptionally well written with some graphic and un-PC treatment of some taboo subjects including school bullying, sexual liberation and child abuse. If you’re interested in the above or lean towards the highbrow, the often gloomy musings about anything from anthropology to the problem pages of girls’ magazines also included in this compilation might keep you going.

Is it any good?
2 out of 5 – great bedtime reading; if you’re having trouble sleeping.

The Prestige (12A)

What’s it about?
Do you believe in magic? You might not after watching this taut, moody drama. Two magicians fight it out to be the master of illusion, after one ‘accidentally’ causes the death of the other’s wife, sparking a bitter lifelong rivalry with tragic consequences.

Highs n lows
This dark look at the art of stage magic and the extremes of human failings, is made even moodier by the turn of the century London setting, and exceptionally believable performances by Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale as the obsessive tricksters Robert and Alfred. Michael Caine is excellent as the stalwart props man Cutter who tries to keep their rivalry at bay, whilst the plot leaves you guessing as it reels you in to its dark web and spits you out at the end stunned.

Perhaps deliberately like life, the ending is quite unsatisfying. I don’t like to think I’ve bought into the Hollywood practice of neat happy endings, but this felt too tragic and unfair for me – but then maybe that’s because I doubt I’d be prepared to pay that kind of price for the Prestige…

Is it any good?
3 out of 5

Casino Royale (12A)

What’s it about?
007 takes on the head of a money laundering operation that funds terrorist organisations.

Highs n lows
I used to love James Bond movies when I was a kid, until the clichéd male chauvinism began to grate just too much. So I wasn’t overly enthusiastic at the thought of yet another remake of the old formula – particularly at 2 and a half hours worth! So I was hugely surprised by how good this was. Despite the fact that this is based on Ian Fleming’s first bond novel from 1953, this is James Bond for the Noughties. Taking us back 20 odd episodes to Bond’s early career, Daniel Craig’s 007 is raw, emotionally complex, dare I say it almost ‘new man’. Ladies be prepared for a nice eyeful when he flashes the flesh, fellas whilst the ladies aren’t typically Voguesque, they are definitely sexy (but clothed!)

I won’t give the plot away but this has got more twists and turns in it than a rattlesnake. Watch out for the amazing Parkour (Free Running) chase at the start with non other than Sebastien Foucan co-creator of the discipline. Add to that, a few well-placed twists on Bond clichés, a brilliant performance from Dame Judi Dench in her 5th incarnation as M, and you’ve got a slick, fast paced and action packed film to be shaken by.

Is it any good?
4 out of 5 – the 2 and a half hours will fly by!

Falling (Fallen)

What’s it about?
5 women meet up at an old teacher’s funeral, and proceed to fiercely relive their youth before, with the help of a lot of alcohol and a little tiredness, secrets old and new start to slip out.

Highs n lows
A story of shattered dreams and reawakened friendships this is a thorough fly on the wall account of a moment in these women’s lives. Effectively exposing the complexity of the lives that women live today, I was a disappointed by the lack of a sense of closure in this detailed character expose. I had high hopes of something uplifting, moving or even funny, but other than rekindling their friendships and exposing a few untruths there’s no real plot to this 88 minute showcase.

Is it any good?
3 out of 5 – Austrian film, in German with English subtitles.

Sixty Six

What’s it about?
Bernie’s coming up to his Bar Mitzvah, the moment when suddenly he moves from ignored geek to the centre of attention – that is until he finds out that England is playing in the World Cup final that same day.

Highs n lows
Premiered as part of this year’s UK Jewish film festival this is a poignant and very realistic portrayal of sixties England. Footy fans will love the original footage of the England games, and I know there’s plenty of in jokes – which as a non Jew passed me by. Helena Bonham Carter and Eddie Marsan form part of the extended cast of family and friends representing the same odd, annoying but also curiously loved family members which many of us will (probably) soon be facing around the Christmas dinner table.

Is it any good?
3 out of 5 - A nostalgic but comic tale of a boy coming to terms with what it is to be a man – accepting others and oneself for who they are and loving them just the same. Based on the real life experience of director Paul Weiland.

Venus

What’s it about?
Jodie Whitaker and Peter O’Toole steal the show in this Britflik about the sometimes uncomfortably close relationship that a fading actor develops with the young niece of his best friend Ian (Leslie Phillips).

Highs n lows
Whitaker is perfect as the naïve, self-centred and headstrong teen, who is slowly charmed by O’Toole’s interest in her and kindness. Her character matures naturally as their relationship goes from a quid pro quo to genuine affection which sees her finally putting someone else before herself and learning to deal with the consequences of her actions.

O’Toole and Phillips play off each other brilliantly as two old codgers who refuse to let age beat them – sucking the last out of life in the same way as the pills they swallow like sweets, swearing for England and getting one last dance out of life before checking out time.

Is it any good?
4 out of 5 – engaging tragi-comic look at growing up and aging. Word to the wise, the film contains mild sexual scenes which some might find uncomfortable.

Princess

What’s it about?
Director Anders Morgenthaler transfixes us with a tale of naivety, religion, revenge and the porn industry. Orphaned as a teenager Christina is inadvertently dragged into the porn film industry by her boyfriend Charlie and Brother August. After her taste of ‘fame’ as the Princess, August can’t persuade her to stop. Transfixed by guilt and growing anger after her death, he starts on a terrible campaign to rid the world of the Princess materials and get revenge for his young niece Mia.

Highs n lows
This is an unusual and highly charged look into the world of pornography, and the impact it might have on the families of porn stars. In an unusual and successful mixing of two media, the characters’ back stories are told using grainy film footage, whilst current events unfold in anime inspired animation which somehow serves to lesson the impact of both the violence and evidence of child abuse shown - although it is no less shocking. Anime fans will want to know that the animation is made the most of in the violent scenes, which probably would have been too much to take had they been in real life footage, particularly as August is meant to be a priest.

Asked to say a few words before the start of the film Morgenthaler, said he wanted to make “a fairytale on top of social realism.” He’s definitely succeeded – you’ll need to see the film to understand what he means.

Is it any good?
4 out of 5. No matter what your views on the issues explored by this film, you’ll find it both gripping, shocking, and a real talking point. In Danish with English subtitles.

The Emperor’s Babe – bernadine evaristo

October being Black History Month I couldn’t let the month go by without reviewing something fantastically different, written by a black woman about a black woman who could well be living in modern times.

What’s it about?
Zuleika, black Roman in Londinium AD211. A feisty and daring child bride from an immigrant family made good, she marries into high society. Watched closely by the servants whilst her husband is away, she hatches a plan with best friend Alba to escape her gilded cage and add some spice to her life.

Highs n lows
A novel in verse, this takes you effortlessly through the slums of Londinium to the debauchery of highest Roman society. An idea spawned by Evaristo’s stint as a writer in residence at the Museum of London, she vividly evokes Roman London, keeping the action going in the fewest of words. Cleverly mixing old Latin and modern slang so that everything feels familiar – ever heard of an Armani toga or the band Nu Vox with drummer Puff Daddy Fabius? You’ll find it a funny, sexy and moving quick read.

Is it any good?
5 out of 5 – excellent read. Even if poetry’s not your thing, don’t be put off, you’ll enjoy every word

BFI Surprise Film

I unfortunately didn’t get in to see BFI’s Surprise film this weekend, but was slightly disappointed to learn that it’s something coming out in 2 weeks time – The Prestige.
I’m not knocking the film but given the hype and the high standard of most of this year’s BFI’s offerings this year, I had hoped for something more than just an advance preview of what is not a bad film …. (Watch out for my review later this week). But then maybe I’m just bitter that I didn’t get in! I’ll leave it to those who did to tell me whether it was worth queuing to see this film a few days in advance or whether they too had hoped for something a bit more special ???

Something New (PG)

What’s it about?
Not a BFI offering but something quite daring from the US, which takes the age-old story of race preference and turns it on its head. Kenya is a Black American High flyer brought up in a family with high expectations of their children. She also has a list of things she doesn’t do that includes bugs, anything red and, white men. Until that is she’s set up on a blind date with landscaper and architect Brian who is everything she thinks she doesn’t want in an ideal partner, including being white. However spending time with him whilst he landscapes her own garden, she is forced to re-evaluate her own expectations and opinion on matters of the heart.

Highs n lows
This is meant to be a humorous look at the challenges of mixed relationships with the moral being that love has no colour bar ad we shouldn’t judge people by it. Unfortunately an idea that could have worked well tried too hard to get its point across. You have a script which veers between two extremes, hard hitting at times, even being brave enough to talk about things like the ‘black tax’ and hair extensions for example, which sits uneasily with the attempts at humour that follow all to quickly behind. It’s all topped by such a sugary sentimental coating that I doubt it will be taken seriously by those who need to hear its message.

Is it any good?
3 out of 5 – nice to watch if you are in the mood for a bit of romance, and can overlook the Americanness of it all.

Fast Food Nation (15)

What’s it about?
I knew there was a reason I wasn’t a fan of burgers. We’ve had Supersize Me which focused on the health effects of fast food, now we get a graphic look at the other side of the chain. Corporate USA, through the eyes of four exploited immigrant workers in the production factory, the new Marketing Director sent down to investigate rumours of contaminated meat, and a young student turned eco activist trying vainly to save the animals.

Highs n lows
Filmed in short vignettes of key parts in each character’s life, this film successfully throws light on the huge corporate and unhappy human chain that depends on the fast food industry, in a thought provoking and real way. Linklater’s (Before Sunset) direction and Thomas’s (The Last Emperor) production offers no judgements, but doesn’t pull any punches either, leaving you to make your own mind up about where you buy your next meal from.

Word of warning, if you cant’ take seeing animals slaughtered or bloody accidents you might not want to watch this.

Is it any good?
5 out of 5 – you won’t look at a burger in the same way again .If you want to find out more, check out Eric Schlosser’s bestseller of the same name. This film, though fictional, was based on it, and you’ll get the real life stories instead of this fictionalised version.

Still Fighting!!

31 years on from the first Sex Discrimination Act can you believe that women are still fighting for equal treatment in the workplace. It seems you’re not even safe at the top of the ladder or across the water. Latest victim Kim Osario former Editor in Chief of The Source, and first woman to hold the position, successfully sued the magazine and its founders for sexual harassment and gender discrimination. She was awarded a $15.5 million (£8 218 418) judgement on Monday (Oct 23).

Osario’s lawyer Kenneth Thompson summed up well when he said “This verdict shows that all women must be treated with dignity and respect, no matter what industry they work in.”

Way to go girl!

Forest Whitaker Screen Talk

Forest Whitaker is well known to many of us from numerous highly regarded films like the Color of Money, Platoon, Bird, A Rage in Harlem, The Crying Game, Panic Room, and most recently in the TV series The Shield, so it was a pleasure to have the rare opportunity to find out more about the man behind the various roles at the first of BFI’s screen talks.

In an hour and a half of one on one talk, I wasn’t disappointed. Genuine and still humble despite all the awards he has won, he still has a healthy respect for directors he’s worked with like Clint Eastwood, and it was good to hear that his main aim is to grow as a person through his acting (rather than watching the Dollars). Even now the man is all about perfection, he is one for always digging deep to see how much more he can give to a role. If he had one, his motto would be ‘feel the fear but do it anyway’ – a leaf we can all take from his book.

The Last King of Scotland

What’s it about?
Nicholas (James McAvoy) newly qualified Dr and proud Scotsman is out for a good time, anything rather than share his Dad’s practice seeing to old ladies with blue rinses. He’s off to Uganda for fun, excitement and a taste of something different. It’s 1970, just in time for Idi Amin’s coup of the Obote government. A stroke of luck sees him called to treat the new President whose arm is sprained after a car accident and soon he’s off to Kampala, living the high life, the President’s personal physician, trusted adviser, and fierce supporter. Until a chance word with the ‘boss’ gets blood on his hands and his eyes are opened to the true nature of Amin’s Uganda, rocked by violent retribution against anyone who the President feels has betrayed him.

Highs n lows
I left the theatre numb at the sheer cruelty and capacity for duplicity of this dictator – capable of sliding from enigmatic and sympathetic man to brutal murderer in the blink of any eye.

Deservedly chosen as this year’s BFI London Film Festival’s opening Gala screening, Forest Whitaker is amazing in his portrayal of the paranoid despot. Yet again demonstrating why he’s come to be respected by so many in the film industry. Shot in Britain and Uganda, Director Kevin MacDonald uses many locals in the production which credibly captures the mood of the country. Interestingly he doesn’t rely on violent scenes to get the point across, if anything most of the footage is of joyous crowd scenes and lavish parties. It’s the hints dropped through tense conversations at key points in a well-crafted and pacy script, combined with just a couple of graphic shots and photos that tell you what’s really going on. Here’s a tip if you need a bit of warning about who Amin’s next victim will be – watch for the over the top ‘ false happy faces’ amongst Amin’s inner circle – they’re so bad, and such a giveaway I’m wondering if they got together to practice. But apart from them, I’ll be amazed if you’re not riveted for the 2 hours of this film.

Is it any good?
5 out of 5 – a must see. The film is based on a novel by Giles Foden. With a film this powerful, I for one am adding it to my reading list.

The Boss of it All

What’s it about?
If I had to sum this film up in one word I’d call it ‘pants’, ‘wack’, or just plain bad – if you get my meaning. But to be fair on those of you who want to make their own minds up this is an absurd comedy about a boss of an IT firm who exploits his employees shamelessly but is so afraid to ruin his ‘well-loved cuddly bear’ image at the firm that he blames all the employee unfriendly policies on the ‘Boss of it all’. This works well until he decides to sell up to an Icelander who refuses to deal with anyone but the top man, so he is forced to hire Kristoff (Jens Albinus) - an out of work actor to play the role. However complications arise when Kristoff decides he doesn’t want to share the limelight.

Highs n lows
This film was made using a new technique called Animotronix, which basically means a computer selects the shots that are finally used. The result is extremely poor continuity, with people just disappearing mid scene and distractingly jerky cuts. Now not being one to stand in the way of new developments, I could forgive this if the plot was top notch – but it isn’t. The script’s far too long for the content and situations too painfully drawn out for them to be even slightly funny. So how about the acting? Wooden. Are there any plus points? Yes, the film’s in Danish with English subtitles, half of which you can’t read because they’re the same colour as the set background – but don’t worry you won’t be missing much.

Is it any good?
1 out of 5 – the humour didn’t successfully translate across borders this time

No. 2

I was disappointed by this Air New Zealand Gala offering – but then maybe I’d been spoilt as I’d just come out from an earlier screening of the Last King of Scotland – a hard candle to beat.

What’s it about?
Nana Maria wants a party, not just any old party, a Fijian feast with all her grand children so she can name her successor. And her grand children must make it all happen in less than 24 hours. Cue the infighting and resurrection of old wounds as a pig is killed, trees are felled and old family issues are finally put aside to make it all happen for Nana, the family’s matriarch.

Highs n lows
A little sentimental and not at all riveting, this is nothing more than a sweeping peak into the lives of three generations of a once immigrant but now thoroughly New Zealander family. Filmed realistically in just a couple of locations.

Is it any good?
3 out of 5 – not bad to while away an hour and a half with if you’ve nothing better to do.

Oliver Twist (1948)

What’s it about?
The old saying ‘originals are the best’ says it all for this restoration of the 1948 version of the film from the BFI National archive.

From the off the scene is set, skeletal branches, crows in the distance, clatter of thunder and torrential rain – you know no good’s going to come to the pregnant woman hammering on the Parish Workhouse doors.

I have to say the David Lean Foundation’s money was put to good use, it’s as if you are watching the picture as it must have been at its original release – crystal clear sound and sharp edged imagery gives us another chance to appreciate classic acting from Alec Guinness’ self-serving thug Fagin to the comical antics of Mr Bumble and his lady wife.

Book or film?
This sticks as close to Dickens’ text as you’ll find in any film adaptation with the added advantage of not having to wade through pages of florid 19th Century text which like me I know many find a turn off these days. You’re carried through the major episodes of Twist’s first 10 years of life at a gallop, through 3 ‘professions’ and dodging jail as circumstances combine to wrong foot all those conspiring to rob him of his birthright. But unlike the various terrible musical versions there have been since, it also conveys some of the depressing grimness and squalor of living conditions of the time that Dickens was so good at describing in his book. However due to the nature of the medium, the complexity and depth of many of the characters are only hinted at in the film; and you’ll need to ignore the odd anomaly of Twist’s distinctly plumby accent against his contemporaries’ raw cockney.

Good quotes:
Prosecutor: ‘The law assumes the lady of the house acts under the master’s direction’
Mr Bumble: ‘If the law assumes that, then the law is an ass’

Is it any good?
4 out of 5 . If classic literature isn’t to your taste this is a first class alternative.

Film, Film, Film!

Phew what a week! What with last week being the opening o the BFI London Film Festival, I’ve not had time to put pen to paper (so to speak). If you’ve not managed to get down there yet, check back here for a quick write up of some of the early gems and howlers they have in store.

The Devil Wears Prada (PG)

I was at a celebratory birthday meal the other day and one of the guests was telling me how his ex had used her position at the Inland Revenue to have him investigated – he ended up paying back £10,000 to the taxman. Talk about hell hath no fury! But you might think that’s nothing after watching this tale about the job from hell.

What’s it about?
Andy (Anne Hathaway), serious, wannabe journalist, without a fashionable bone in her body, is looking for a job to pay the rent. She lands the job that ‘hundreds of girls would die for’ and which almost kills her life in the process. Determined not to be changed by the fashion industry it’s soon stilettos at dawn as she struggles to out do First Assistant Emily (Emily Blunt) to win the favour of impossibly fickle and ruthless editor of Runway Magazine Amanda Priestley (Meryl Streep).

This Hollywood swipe at the senseless bitching and preening of the fashion industry is a real treat. Streep’s fantastic as the demanding Priestley, bringing just the right touch of rudeness and icy poise to every encounter, striking fear into her employees even when visibly in meltdown at the breakup of yet another marriage. Prickly sidekicks Blunt and Stanley Tucci (as Nigel – Runway Magazine’s fashion editor) perfectly incarnate the misplaced optimism and eternal disappointment of a dog eats dog industry, where you’re only as good as your last commission. Both are great fall guys to Hathaway’s unremarkable performance as the ugly duckling turned swan.

Great quotes:
“Find me that piece of paper I had in my hand yesterday morning.”
“Don’t be ridiculous, everybody wants to be us”

Is it any good?
4 out of 5 – Definitely worth a watch - this managed to suck me in even though I was shattered and suffering from a bad case of heartburn (all you pregnant women out there will know what a feat that is!).

Plaudits for Black British talent at Screen Nation Awards

Mona Hammond ‘the godmother of black British actors’ rose to a well deserved standing ovation as she went up to receive a the Edric Connor Inspiration award (Screen Nation’s highest UK honour) at last night’s Screen Nation award ceremony. Familiar to us all from TV roles in family favourites such as Desmonds (1990-94), Eastenders (1994 – 97) she’s also had her share of moments on the big screen (Kinky Boots, Manderlay) and on stage (King Lear, Romeo and Juliet) to name a few. From comedy to serious drama her talent has taken her a long way from her first acting role in Jamaica in 1952 and she is an inspiration to us all.

Other black female talent recognised last night were:

Thandie Newton (Crash) - best female performance in film
Loretta Devine (Crash) - Female Screen Personality Film / TV
Kara Miller (writer/director) – Emerging Talent

Screen nation awards celebrates excellence and diversity in TV and film.

Help with Accessory Obsession

Shoes, handbags, jewellery, clothes, cuddly toys … I don’t think I know one woman who hasn’t got ‘a thing’ with one or other of the above. My personal ‘thing’ is shoes – particularly the impossibly high, strappy, impractical sandal which I might not be able to stand up in for more than an hour – but do they look gorgeous!! Unfortunately weather and swollen feet are conspiring against me so much these days that I’ve had to start avoiding shoe shops for fear of going into a serious depression.

But lately I’ve discovered light at the end of the tunnel. Wandering through Mothercare the other day I couldn’t help noticing these gorgeous baby outfits positioned enticingly right by the entrance. Soooo cute. I’m worried I’ve another ‘thing’ developing. It’s got to be genetic or maybe something that is ingrained from an early age by society through TV, magazines, fashion ads. I’m the most level-headed person I know and even I’m not immune.

Am I crazy to think this ?? Or has someone out there found a way to avoid being bitten by the bug?

At your level?

I was surprised to read this the other day:

“The terrible predicament of a beautiful girl is that only an experienced womaniser, someone cynical and without scruple, feels that he is up to the challenge. More often than not, she will lose her virginity to some filthy lowlife in what can prove to be the first step in an irrevocable decline.”

Now this was written quite recently by a man, and being a woman I can’t say much, but my gut tells me that surely there’s got to be more to it than this – or does the old saying about men feeling that they can’t approach a woman who is ‘not at their level’ still hold true??

And how about us ladies, I know there can be a bit of jealousy going on out there from time to time, but do you reckon that’s what all the good looking sisters deserve??

Click (12A)

What’s it about?
Ever felt like fast forwarding through the most tedious parts of your life? In this hilarious comedy, ambitious family man Michael (Adam Sandler) gets a Tivo style remote control that lets him do just that. No more arguments with the wife, speed through foreplay, turn the dog’s barking down, slap the boss about without him knowing, fast forward to your promotion – what’s the harm, right? Well, Mike soon finds that like everything that’s easy in life, there’s a price to pay.

A pacy tightly written script showcases the talents of a cast of family favourites, headed up by American comic Sandler, who is offset perfectly by Christopher Walken’s deadpan angel advisor Morty. You’ll recognise parents Ted and Trudy Newman – Henry Winkler and Julie Kavner - from cult shows like Happy Days (yep I’m showing my age now) and a certain Simpson-like gravely voice. Even David Hasselhoff gets to show he’s more than a bod in tight swim trunks, revelling in playing selfish boss Ammer. Finally, worth a mention is a new comer to the big screen, the stuffed yellow duck that puts in a very active and unforgettable performance.

The laughs aren’t without a serious edge, there’s a strong morality tale to the script, which clearly exposes the pitfalls of putting work before family, but the balance between light hearted and serious lessons is just right and the film definitely doesn’t go for a heavy ‘schmaltz’ factor.

Is it any good?
A rib tickling 4 out of 5

Waiting to Exhale

What's it about?

Classic favourite (for us ladies that is) this isn’t such a male basher as the film would have you believe. Based on Terry McMillan’s 1992 best-seller, it’s a statement about modern times.

The plot centres on four black American women dealing with life’s ups and downs with the help of their friends – how they work it through, keep things together and resolve their problems, of which men are partly the cause in some cases, and in others they are part solution.

Robin’s (played by Lela Rochon in the film) – looking for the right man
Gloria’s (Loretta Devine) – a single mum afraid to commit again
Savannah’s (Whitney Houston) – a career girl dealing with a boss who takes credit for her work and an invalid mother
Bernadine’s (Angela Bassett) - locked in a divorce with a deceitful husband

The film was Forest Whitaker’s first go at directing a full length film so I’m surprised that he took the male bashing route. It definitely got the slick, perfectly made up, Hollywood treatment, and on the plus side provided a rare opportunity to see four black women on the big screen in leading roles. Not to mention a great sound track. This rightly did well at the box office but you only get a taste of the complexity of the book

Is it any good?
A tough one to call – an even 4 out of 5 for both book and screen. A definite feel good look for the ‘better half’

A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian – marina lewycka

What’s it about?
Family feuding on a grand scale is the subject of this recent and Orange Prize shortlisted novel. Round 1 – Tractors have very little to do with it as two sisters fight it out go get one over each other, for their eventual inheritance and their father’s love. Round 2 – in the away corner sits busty, bottle-blonde Valentina, sophisticated gold digger who is hiding behind a very thin and battered maternal cloak.

Although billed as a comedy my ribs were barely tickled as I read my way through this, although it’s still not a bad read. It’s actually a perceptive portrait of a family’s fragile relationships thrown into strong relief, as old wounds are torn open when two sisters Vera and Nadezhda are forced to work together against a common enemy who marries their aging father in a bid to take everything he has.

Although there’s a definite fiery female bias, all the characters are tightly drawn, developing naturally with the storyline into a multifaceted whole. You start out hating Valentina, but as you hear about her circumstances you start to ask yourself how right are you to judge so harshly? Whilst you can easily sympathise with Nikolai (Vera and Nadezhda’s father) as he shrivels slowly to a pale shadow of his former sprightly self – he still remains a letch to the end, and you’re going to come to a point where you think won’t he ever learn?

Tractors are mentioned as part of Nikolai’s book, of which we get pages of extracts. At first sight, they seem unnecessary, but are in fact an alternative attempt at character exposition, as they serve to illustrate the old man’s state of mind (not sure if I’d encourage a repeat of that idea).

Is it any good?
At 3 out of 5, worth a read

Love those curves

I applauded when I heard that Madrid’s Mayor banned ‘stick thin’ models (ie those with a BMI of less than 14 (!!) – you know, the one lettuce leaf a day gals) from their fashion week. Now Lakeside’s (massive retail park) done the same thing, banning them from its shows. I’m sensing a welcome new trend here. Now fashion city’s waking up to the appeal of curves, let’s hope more of us ladies are going to start loving those love handles ….

Pregnant pause (part 2)

What a historic day! Hallelujah, praise the Lord! It’s happened at last, a man (black guy no less) offered me his seat on the tube this morning! Bless you bro.

Day of the Triffids

What’s it about?

After seeing the various film and TV versions, I was surprised how good this tale about a world taken over by giant killer plants, that stalk living prey – humans included, was.

This classic was done little justice by the 1981 TV mini series and even less so by the cheesy 1962 horror film effort.

Written as pure science fiction (not horror) in 1951, John Wyndham’s novel is still a gripping, suspenseful read. It paints a vivid picture of a quieter but still recognisable London, following an unlikely scientist and society girl couple in a race for survival, as civilization disintegrates around them.

Refreshingly, the heroine is more tough totty (for her time) rather than the screaming idiot that’s portrayed on celluloid. The dialogue may be a little old fashioned along with some of the characters’ manners and dress, but this comes across as quaint more than irritating and just adds to the authenticity of the book.

My one criticism would be the lack of clues about the nature of the mysterious disease that is also killing many of the survivors (– or did I miss something??).

Is it any good?

I’d give it 4 out of 5, this is definitely one to read not watch. The book’s slim line size also makes it great for tube reading.

The Queen (12A)

What’s it about?

Those of us around at the time watched the story of Princess Diana’s death through the eyes of the media. This film tells the story through the eyes of the royal family.

Helen Mirren puts in an excellent performance as HRH Queen Elizabeth II, faithfully portraying a woman who doesn’t put her feelings on show, and whose way of life is “Duty first self second” yet still manages to inject a great deal of feeling into her performance.

Use of actual footage from the week of Diana’s funeral will either bring it all flooding back or make those extraordinary scenes are reality for you if you weren’t around at the time.

There’s a healthy undercurrent of cynicism about the media and the way people in the public eye have to ‘play their game’ to survive, subtly underlined by some prophetic lines:

Tony Blair in response to a call from Gordon “tell him to wait”
The Queen to Tony Blair re what it’s like to be hated “It’ll happen to you one day”

Is it any good?

All in all, I’d give it 3 out of 5. Not one for those into blood soaked action, but worth a look if you’re curious about the behind the scenes of Diana’s death, or who like to watch the power play of the media and politics in action.

Bridget Jones

I don’t usually rant (For those who've just read my previous posting - rant over, promise) , but I think something’s come over me since I finally got through reading Bridget Jones’ Diary – yes the original (I know I’m several years late!) But I loved the film and going on the usual premise that the book is always better, I dived in … what a disappointment!!

Where was the depth of character, the jokes, what was this crazy far fetched plot???!!! Grrr (to coin a Bridget term). Yes I know this book has gained a huge following over the years but I’m happy to be in the minority and say, as a thirty something single for many years I couldn’t relate to this self absorbed tale of drink sodden martyrdom.

Am I the only one? Someone out there please reassure me!!

Pregnant Pause

This is nothing to do with film or books – but tell me why is it that only women are willing to give up their seats for pregnant women using public transport? The number of furtive looks and slight frowns that I’ve had directed my way, which slide quickly away as soon as I turn my head in their vague direction since I’ve begun to show

You can just see them thinking, hmm she’s pregnant, she might want a seat, but I’m comfy/had a long day/waited ages for this one (whatever the excuse), should I offer her mine? Maybe someone else will….??

Well actually 9 times out of 10 THEY WON’T! Can I encourage all men out there to dig deep into some old fashioned chivalry and offer yours – you might even get a thank you but no thank you, and if not at least you’ll get that warm glow of doing something for someone else.

BFI London Film Festival

Went along with that journo, all round good guy, tell it like it is, film addict michael morgan to the launch of the 50th London film festival this am and what a treat it was. As well as being spoilt by coffee and danishes on arrival were also treated to some great trailers, wow its gonna be a great festival...