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
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Monday, October 30, 2006
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 ???
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.
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.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
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.
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!
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!
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
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.
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.
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.
Monday, October 23, 2006
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
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.
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.
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.
Friday, October 13, 2006
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!).
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!).
Thursday, October 12, 2006
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
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?
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?
Friday, October 06, 2006
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??
“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??
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
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
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
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