Thursday, February 10, 2011

The King's Speech

George VI never wanted to be King of England, but when his brother, Edward, forfeited the crown by marrying an American divorcee, George was forced to lead the nation. Unfortunately for George, he had a debilitating stutter that prevented him from speaking fluently. Given that he needed to inspire an uprising against Hitler, his stutter became a major impediment.

It was George’s wife, Elizabeth, who introduced him to a crazy Aussie speech therapist, who ultimately saved the day in more ways than one. While this might not sound like the most riveting story, the director of the film has poured so much heart into it that the result is compelling. On top of this, Colin Firth’s portrayal of George is flawless and inspiring and will almost certainly win him the Best Actor Oscar this year. If you’re looking for stellar acting and a good human drama, book now!

Rating: 4 outta 5.

Morning Glory

Rachel McAdams plays Becky, a young, energetic TV producer who’s been given the responsibility of reviving a dying morning show. Against everyone’s advice, she hires the cranky Mike (Harrison Ford) to partner with the seasoned host Colleen (Diane Keaton), and all hell breaks loose. Determined to make it work, however, Becky throws herself into the challenge and, well, you can pretty much guess what happens in the end.

While the plot sounds a bit lame, the film is made really fun by McAdams and, surprisingly, a more endearing Ford. I could think of worse ways to spend an afternoon.

Rating: 3 outta 5

Jane's Journey

Jane Goodall is one of the world’s foremost environmental and animal activists. At the age of 76 she still dedicates about 300 days a year to raising awareness and inspiring people to look after the planet and all its creatures. This documentary gives us a look into her incredible life and is testament to the idea that one person can change the world.

Take your blinders off, climb out of your bubble of denial and take your whole family to see this.

Rating: 5 outta 5.

Warrior's Way

This movie, which pitches cowboys against ninjas, might think it’s achieving the slick stylisation of Tarantino or Rodriguez, but it comes nowhere close. A few cool effects cannot save a bad script and poor acting, people! And on that note, what the hell is Kate Bosworth doing starring in this sub-standard offering? Urgh. I hate it when I feel like I’ve just wasted two hours of my life…

Rating: 2 outta 5.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Black Swan

This movie has everything going for it. Firstly it’s directed by the brilliant Darren Aronofsky of The Wrestler and Requiem for a Dream fame. Secondly it’s a dark, psychologically arresting story that leaves you questioning your reality. Thirdly Natalie Portman plays the lead with such intensity that it’s no surprise she’s the forerunner in the Best Actress Oscar race.

Forget the fact that it is centred around the Swan Lake ballet. Don’t let your boyfriend or husband use this as an excuse not to see it. This is why I love awards season: bloody brilliant movies!

Rating: 5 outta 5.

Fair Game

Based on actual facts in the USA’s very recent history, this film pulls no punches when it comes to incriminating the Bush administration and revealing the lies surrounding the “discovery” of weapons of mass destruction.

Based on the story of a couple that both worked in government, we get yet another look at the corruption, cover-ups and scapegoating that ultimately justified the declaration of war. This is one of those films that is jam packed with fascinating info and shocking revelations; whether you believe them or not is up to you. Either way, it makes for great watching.

Rating: 4 outta 5.

The Green Hornet

Wow. Just when you think that not another superhero movie could possibly be made ever again, whoops, there it is. It’s obvious that some are better than others, and that just because ordinary people can suddenly shoot razor blades from their fingertips does not automatically make them movie-worthy.

Despite having Seth Rogan at the helm of this movie it still falls flat. Quite simply it’s frivolous, silly and at times rather boring. Sure, people will laugh every now and then at the shenanigans but only because they’ll feel obliged to after paying 50 bucks to see it.

Rating: 2 outta 5.