Clive Plasma: Movie Reviews [Archive] - Page 2 (2025)

Simon

February 26th, 2014, 6:48 AM

El Capitano Gatisto

February 26th, 2014, 6:49 AM

Simon

February 26th, 2014, 6:51 AM

The Rogerer

February 26th, 2014, 6:59 AM

Ringo

February 26th, 2014, 7:00 AM

Simon

February 26th, 2014, 7:04 AM

Mik

February 26th, 2014, 1:21 PM

Simon

February 26th, 2014, 2:01 PM

Mik

February 26th, 2014, 4:29 PM

Simon

February 26th, 2014, 6:59 PM

Clive Plasma

March 2nd, 2014, 11:29 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/6fa8e39274f8cb2201a0b97acd7804ba/tumblr_n1tewzNEfm1tp1soio1_500.jpg

60) Coriolanus (2011)

A banished hero of Rome allies with a sworn enemy to take his revenge on the city.

5/10 - This modern take on the Shakespearean play of the same name failed to tick the right boxes for me. It seemed cluttered, overacted and dragged out far too long. The only exemption was Vanessa Redgrave, who excelled in each scene she was in. The dialogue was not a factor for me in scoring this either. While it was in it’s original ‘Shakespearean language’ and at times it was hard to understand, it was quite simple to join the dots. It’s worth a watch if you’re into modern adaptations, have read or seen the play, or enjoy War movies. But overall, it just was not for me.

Clive Plasma

March 2nd, 2014, 3:34 PM

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61) Any Given Sunday (1999)

A behind the scenes look at the life and death struggles of modern day gladiators and those who lead them.

7/10 - What an odd synopsis. Call it what it is, it’s a sports movie about an aging Al Pacino who is trying to break a losing streak, while balancing the stress of on and off-field politics. With a good cast, an eclectic soundtrack and about every single camera effect you could get your hands on in 1999 it makes for a fun movie. It does a sound job of depicting the personal challenges everyone faces, as we get a glimpse into what drives the players to put themselves in harms way, and how money can cloud both the managements and players better judgement.

Clichéd and over the top, but a satisfying watch.

Canuck

March 2nd, 2014, 3:54 PM

Simon

March 2nd, 2014, 7:17 PM

Clive Plasma

March 3rd, 2014, 8:00 AM

Probably one of the most motivational speeches in that.

I love a good movie speech.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/1f13bf19159da0cb504827f3ce1509fa/tumblr_n1uyx2ko2C1tp1soio1_500.jpg

62) Stone (2010)

A convicted arsonist looks to manipulate a parole officer into a plan to secure his parole by placing his beautiful wife in the lawman’s path.

6/10 - I was pleasantly surprised by this movie. It is shrouded in negative reviews but I was compelled to watch it based on the cast alone. Ed Norton plays the desperate convict extremely well, with an accent that did not detract from a fine performance. De Niro is the Parole officer, a job in which he gets to judge to fate of others, but he has no-one there to judge him and his inner demons. Finally, Milla Jovovich embraces the slightly disturbing but equally desperate wife of Nortons character, and gives an unnerving display.

It was a slow paced film, a thriller without the thrill you could say. The tight cast and individual performances carry this film through to the end, but in terms of a compelling, conniving and action packed story-line viewers expected based on the marketing of the film, I can understand some level of disappointment.

Clive Plasma

March 3rd, 2014, 6:56 PM

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63) A Bittersweet life (2005)

Things go wrong for a high ranking mobster when he doesn’t proceed by his boss’s orders.

8/10 - Inspired by Scarface, compared to Tarentino and holding an impressive 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, this bloody and brutal mob story brought to you by Kim Jee-Woon ('Tale of two Sisters', 'The Quiet Family', ‘I Saw The Devil’) is as violent as they come.

It is acted and choreographed superbly, with a simple story to tell, where an enforcers decision to do what he believes is right is challenged by a hierarchy of egos and vengeance. It is effective, realistic and gripping, and yet another fine example of South Korean cinema.

Seanny One Ball

March 4th, 2014, 5:25 PM

Clive Plasma

March 4th, 2014, 7:21 PM

I do love Tartan video, they release some ballsy stuff. Bundy was a favourite.

Bundy, if you're referring to the 2002 film, was one of the most fucked up films I saw as a kid. 13 years old, grabbed it on a whim from the 'rental store' and watched it knowing nothing about it. Immediately looked it up to see how true it was, I was astounded that someone had a) made a film about this bloke and b) that he actually did the things they said he did. It's such an accurate portrayal of one of the most messed up people ever to grace this planet.

Seanny One Ball

March 5th, 2014, 3:33 PM

Donald

March 5th, 2014, 4:39 PM

Seanny One Ball

March 5th, 2014, 6:09 PM

Seanny One Ball

March 5th, 2014, 6:09 PM

Clive Plasma

March 5th, 2014, 8:31 PM

Clive Plasma

March 5th, 2014, 8:35 PM

Sort of NSFW Poster
https://31.media.tumblr.com/c3c6ca422995267d2f07b8c514d44131/tumblr_n1znv16nUa1tp1soio1_500.jpg

64) Nymphomaniac: Volume I (2013)

A self-diagnosed nymphomaniac recounts her erotic experiences to the man who saved her after a beating.

9/10 - Controversial, funny, absurd and interesting. I’m genuinely puzzled as to where the claim that this film is boring comes from? The 2 or so hours flew by and at the end I could not wait for Volume II to start. Aside from Shia LaBeoufs accent in which he portrayed a sort of cockney South African, it was pretty flawless. The gratuitous nudity that you come to expect from the adverts was not as frequent as anticipated, but once it graced your screen Von Trier did not hold back. It was used effectively and became ‘normal’ as Stacy Martin carried out the sexual explorations of the Nymphomaniacs younger years, interspersed with some fond family memories and dry dialogue with her ‘rescuer’ played brilliantly by Stellan Skarsgård. But where does it go from here? Volume I only covers half of the Nymphos life…

Another sort of NSFW poster...

https://24.media.tumblr.com/80e827b62afc0c5b8b25d250002cb2e7/tumblr_n1znv16nUa1tp1soio2_500.jpg

65) Nymphomaniac: Volume II (2013)

The continuation of Joe’s sexually dictated life delves into the darker aspects of her adult life and what led to her being in Seligman’s care.

7/10 - Volume I is great on it’s own, but does leave you with a half finished story. You are inclined to see it through because the first one is not that bad. It was actually quite funny and the nudity was all in good taste (most of the time).

Volume II by contrast is bleak and hard to watch. It is so far the opposite of Volume I it gives off an almost Requiem for a Dream vibe, as it spirals into these darker aspects. I could go into more detail, but one thing that irks me are reviews that essentially describe the plot and there’s a difference between describing the plot, and the film itself. With that being said, most of Volume II’s appeal sits within shock value, and if you can see this through to the end, you will not be disappointed.

Bottom line, ignore the negative reviews calling this ‘glorified porn’, that it’s boring and that it should be x-rated. See it for yourself. Make up your own mind. I loved it. Unless of course you are offended by the sight of tits, penises, vaginas, blood, semen, violence and fully penetrative sex - then this won’t be for you. Ignore all of the above.

Clive Plasma

March 9th, 2014, 7:18 PM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/d3ff4fecaaa1224861b1dacc87cece1d/tumblr_n26zdaRY2n1tp1soio1_500.jpg

66) Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2004)

A documentary about the Enron corporation, its faulty and corrupt business practices, and how they led to its fall.

8/10 - Absolutely staggering that something like this was able to take place. This documentary is certainly worth watching, even if business and finance are not what you would go to first when choosing a documentary to watch. It’s easy to follow, well presented and tells a compelling story.

Clive Plasma

March 10th, 2014, 8:42 AM

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67) Too Big To Fail (2011)

Chronicles the financial meltdown of 2008 and centers on Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson.

6/10 - A concise look at the economic crisis in 2008. It was actually quite in depth, but from a personal standpoint it raises more questions than answers. Fundamentally, I can’t understand how they can afford to bail out large corporations like that? A ridiculous amount of money was spent on Wall St, and from the little blurb at the end is seemed like very few either learned their lesson or actually used the cash wisely.

Otherwise, it was relatively easy to watch. William Hurt, James Woods and Paul Giamatti were all excellent, and carried the movie for the most part. It was nothing special, but worth a watch.

Clive Plasma

March 10th, 2014, 7:44 PM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/1fe52d36db2547c1be46a947f1c6492e/tumblr_n28v6puQgF1tp1soio1_500.jpg
68) Craigslist Joe (2012)

In a time when America’s economy was crumbling and sense of community was in question, one guy left everything behind to see if he could survive solely on the support and goodwill of the 21st century’s new town square: Craigslist.

6/10 - Joe Garner, associate producer for The Hangovers and Due Date, decides it would be a good idea to live off the goodwill of others for a month using Craigslist. It’s an interesting challenge, but the outcomes strike me as being all to convenient. For starters there’s the general notion, that people would be more inclined to help a brutha out if he has a cameraman following him everywhere he goes. Secondly, the day-by-day happenings get skipped through quite quickly when we’re lead to believe he’s on a roll. What’s to say he didn’t kip in a hotel one night? Finally, a lot of the people he meets have their own IMDB pages with multiple appearances elsewhere - were these meetings purely coincidental considering he is in the film industry?

Fabricated or not, it makes for good viewing. Just take what you’re watching with a pinch of salt.

Clive Plasma

March 11th, 2014, 4:56 AM

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69) Welcome To The Punch (2013)

Ex-criminal Jacob Sternwood is forced to return to London when his son is involved in a heist gone wrong. This gives his nemesis, detective Max Lewinsky, one last chance to catch the man he’s always been after.

3/10 - I wanted something mindless to watch, and I think I got more than I bargained for. An empty action movie with gunfight after gunfight that was all over the place. I have nothing more to say on it. Not worth watching.

Slare

March 11th, 2014, 9:56 AM

Gary J

March 11th, 2014, 3:44 PM

MikeHunt

March 11th, 2014, 3:55 PM

Gary J

March 11th, 2014, 4:19 PM

MikeHunt

March 11th, 2014, 4:24 PM

Gary J

March 11th, 2014, 4:38 PM

MikeHunt

March 11th, 2014, 4:42 PM

Clive Plasma

March 12th, 2014, 4:31 AM

I haven't seen Filth yet. It's down there as one to watch, maybe I should give it a miss.

Going to go and see Grand Budapest Hotel and Under The Skin this week. Some great releases along with Starred Up and The Double too.

This is the one I'm most looking forward to...

Starred Up:A troubled and explosively violent teenager is transferred to adult prison where he finally meets his match - a man who also happens to be his father.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zE4ziBfu0JA

Stars Jack O'Connell from Eden Lake, Harry Brown, This is England and Skins. Did amazingly well on the festival circuit too.

MikeHunt

March 12th, 2014, 4:46 AM

Alf

March 12th, 2014, 5:21 AM

MikeHunt

March 12th, 2014, 5:35 AM

Mik

March 12th, 2014, 5:49 AM

He really seems to be shaping up to be. He also stars in the Angelina Jolie directed film that looks like one of the favourites for next year's Oscars already, Roger Deakins cinematography and the Coen brothers script. Unfortunately he seems to be an absolute tool anytime I've ever seen him interviewed, so I'm hoping that is changing as he's getting older/getting bigger roles. Starred Up I couldnt decide whether it looked Scum Great or Noel Clarke/Nick Love terrible, it sounds like its more the former than the latter though.

I loved Philomena, liked Filth and thought that Welcome to the Punch was good looking fluff for what it was. I thoroughly enjoyed The Grand Budapest Hotel, Ralph Fiennes is fantastic and I'm also greatly anticipating The Double. The reviews look excellent and I loved Ayoade's debut film Submarine.

Clive Plasma

March 12th, 2014, 6:19 AM

Mik

March 12th, 2014, 8:01 AM

Clive Plasma

March 12th, 2014, 7:27 PM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/5761dcfa2c0d889b744dad10dceda733/tumblr_n2cjqcsO3E1tp1soio1_500.jpg

70) Revanche (2008)

Ex-con Alex plans to flee to the South with his girl after a robbery. But something terrible happens and revenge seems inevitable.

8/10 - This is the second Austrian film I’ve watched on this challenge after Michael (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/75719360475/39-michael-2011-five-months-in-the-life-of-a), and I’m glad to report this slow-paced thriller is substantially easier to digest. And much like The Silence (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72984763984/18-the-silence-2010-das-letzte-schweigen) (German), the cinematography was fantastic. A great example of European cinema. It’s restrained and unpredictable, not your typical cat & mouse thriller. It spends more time intimately developing the characters, and lets the story-line unfold naturally and gradually, rather than deliver a huge predictable twist right at the end. Highly recommended.

Clive Plasma

March 12th, 2014, 7:42 PM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/1eaa44116b0d7fa0de0bce1f37a0d8ce/tumblr_n2ckgjLRQq1tp1soio1_500.jpg

71) The Son of No One (2011)

A young cop is assigned to a precinct in the working class neighborhood where he grew up, and an old secret threatens to destroy his life and his family.

3/10 - I don’t think they even knew where they were going with this movie. The plot was about as thin as Channing Tatums mustache, which just looked ridiculous. As was the film. Just chopping and changing between the past where Tatum was a small lad in a bad place, to the present where he’s a big lad being shouted at by Katie Holmes and Ray Liotta, all the time. Poor guy.

It’s hard to feel anything else for this movie because while the acting wasn’t that bad, none of the characters were even bought into the story. At least 3 of them repeatedly said, “I don’t care” when referring to this ‘secret’. But if nobody cares, then why should we? It was all over the place, over edited and trying overly hard to be as good as The Departed.

Not even close.

Seanny One Ball

March 15th, 2014, 3:14 PM

Clive Plasma

March 16th, 2014, 5:00 AM

Clive Plasma

March 16th, 2014, 5:48 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/617067b08761e69db91e7a3f8e9b9b7f/tumblr_n2ivpjVHbu1tp1soio1_500.jpg

72) Man On Wire (2008)

A look at tightrope walker Philippe Petit’s daring, but illegal, high-wire routine performed between New York City’s World Trade Center’s twin towers in 1974, what some consider, “the artistic crime of the century.”

8/10 - Excellent fun to watch. Philippe is such an animated storyteller it is hard not to be drawn into the intensity of the situation, even though the outcome is known. The archive footage and photographs are unbelievable to see, and more so considering that the towers are no longer around. Worth a watch, and the book of the same name is just as good.

Seanny One Ball

March 16th, 2014, 6:55 AM

Clive Plasma

March 17th, 2014, 8:45 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/6b7f3e715fd7a9a699f7e84493f6d61a/tumblr_n2kze5psy81tp1soio1_500.jpg

73) The Beat That My Heart Skipped (2005) [De Battre mon Coeur s’est Arrêté]

Will Thomas still lead a life of crime and cruelty, just like his thuggish father, or will he pursue his dream of becoming a pianist?

8/10 - 2005 Bafta Award winner ‘The Beat The My Heart Skipped' is a gritty and realistic portrayal of man caught between two worlds: one fueled by a hapless devotion to his father, and the other a passion of piano. Romain Duris's performance is gripping and powerful, in particular his scenes with his Piano tutor played by the instantly likable Linh-Dan Pham. Stylish, well directed and extremely enjoyable. Highly recommended.

BBF

March 17th, 2014, 9:18 AM

Can I make a recommendation, Clive? Either on the list on your first post or on the blog can you put your ratings out of 10 at all? I'm using your list as a guide to watch new stuff but have to find the post to see what you thought.

Entirely selfish and lazy but it'd be massively helpful to just see what you gave a certain film without having to find the post.

Clive Plasma

March 17th, 2014, 10:02 AM

Can I make a recommendation, Clive? Either on the list on your first post or on the blog can you put your ratings out of 10 at all? I'm using your list as a guide to watch new stuff but have to find the post to see what you thought.

Entirely selfish and lazy but it'd be massively helpful to just see what you gave a certain film without having to find the post.

It's a good idea, but I can't be arsed right now. If you go to my watchlist on my blog, there's links to each 'review' with the scores...

http://film2014.tumblr.com/watchlist

Hope that helps?

Out of interest, which ones have you watched so far and what did you think of them?

Clive Plasma

March 18th, 2014, 8:47 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/5fb4794a19b3ca7af2fbafd5ab34fcc5/tumblr_n2mu606YIt1tp1soio1_500.jpg

74) The Selfish Giant (2013)

A contemporary fable about two scrappy 13-year-old working-class friends in the UK who seek fortune by getting involved with a local scrap dealer and criminal, leading to tragic consequences.

9/10 - A powerful, understated and somewhat dark film portraying what I can only imagine is an accurate depiction of poor, barely working class, northern England. The constant theme of exclusion, whether it be from school or the scrap yard, social circles or family, makes for upsetting viewing, as the main actors Conner Chapman (Arbor) and Shaun Thomas’s (Swifty) friendship is put through various trials and tribulations. They give excellent performances considering this is their first role on screen, and it gives a sense of realism that reflects a documentary style, making the film appear even more honest and sad.

Simon

March 18th, 2014, 8:50 AM

Clive Plasma

March 18th, 2014, 8:51 AM

Ringo

March 18th, 2014, 8:54 AM

Clive Plasma

March 18th, 2014, 9:15 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/34de525438a274a565087136dbffb42e/tumblr_n2mvh00ZiY1tp1soio1_500.jpg

75) 3 Backyards (2010)

The story of three people from the same suburban town during the course of one curious autumn day.

5/10 - It was slightly underwhelming. I expected a lot more as there was considerable hype around this when it was first released. With an eerie score and near perfect cinematography, it was the story-line itself that let the film down. It’s often the case with these intertwining story-line films, as it is hard to draw a concrete resolution with so much going on. It’s either to simple or to complicated. With this film at 80 minutes or so, it went for the simple approach which meant it omitted a level of detail required to make sense of it all. A more in depth exploration of the route cause of the inner angst that each character possessed, rather than being thrown right into it, would have made the film more relatable.

Instead, we are left wondering. Which in some cases is good. It’s important not to be spoonfed every single film you watch, but with little character development to draw me in, I found my mind wandering.

Mik

March 18th, 2014, 10:10 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/5fb4794a19b3ca7af2fbafd5ab34fcc5/tumblr_n2mu606YIt1tp1soio1_500.jpg

74) The Selfish Giant (2013)

A contemporary fable about two scrappy 13-year-old working-class friends in the UK who seek fortune by getting involved with a local scrap dealer and criminal, leading to tragic consequences.

9/10 - A powerful, understated and somewhat dark film portraying what I can only imagine is an accurate depiction of poor, barely working class, northern England. The constant theme of exclusion, whether it be from school or the scrap yard, social circles or family, makes for upsetting viewing, as the main actors Conner Chapman (Arbor) and Shaun Thomas’s (Swifty) friendship is put through various trials and tribulations. They give excellent performances considering this is their first role on screen, and it gives a sense of realism that reflects a documentary style, making the film appear even more honest and sad.

Tried to get to the cinema to see this, but none around me were showing, so tried to get it digital download...couldnt do that either. Frustrating for such an apparently good little film to be so hard to get hold of. I've got a copy now though and cant wait to watch it.

Seanny One Ball

March 18th, 2014, 5:51 PM

Mik

March 19th, 2014, 6:18 AM

Simon

March 19th, 2014, 6:49 AM

Fair enough if you don't like it but I hardly think liking pretentious stuff is 'typical' of me. If anything I'm the opposite - I freely admit to being a bit of a philistine, unable to really get to grips with a lot of movies that are odd or unconventional, even when they're highly thought of. And also...it's not a pretentious film at all. It's a simple story. Again, if you don't like it fair enough, but your assessment is just bollocks really.

Seanny, please explain your justification for saying that A) the film is pretentious, and B) I have a history of being pretentious. Is it just you being a dimwit or is there actually some reasoning behind what you're saying?

MikeHunt

March 19th, 2014, 7:37 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/5fb4794a19b3ca7af2fbafd5ab34fcc5/tumblr_n2mu606YIt1tp1soio1_500.jpg

74) The Selfish Giant (2013)

A contemporary fable about two scrappy 13-year-old working-class friends in the UK who seek fortune by getting involved with a local scrap dealer and criminal, leading to tragic consequences.

9/10 - A powerful, understated and somewhat dark film portraying what I can only imagine is an accurate depiction of poor, barely working class, northern England. The constant theme of exclusion, whether it be from school or the scrap yard, social circles or family, makes for upsetting viewing, as the main actors Conner Chapman (Arbor) and Shaun Thomas’s (Swifty) friendship is put through various trials and tribulations. They give excellent performances considering this is their first role on screen, and it gives a sense of realism that reflects a documentary style, making the film appear even more honest and sad.

Watched this a couple of weeks ago. Absolutely amazing movie, tragic tale and excellently acted.

Clive Plasma

March 19th, 2014, 7:48 AM

Seanny, please explain your justification for saying that A) the film is pretentious, and B) I have a history of being pretentious. Is it just you being a dimwit or is there actually some reasoning behind what you're saying?

Want me to make a thread about it for you? We'll put it to a vote...

Mik

March 19th, 2014, 7:51 AM

Fair enough if you don't like it but I hardly think liking pretentious stuff is 'typical' of me. If anything I'm the opposite - I freely admit to being a bit of a philistine, unable to really get to grips with a lot of movies that are odd or unconventional, even when they're highly thought of. And also...it's not a pretentious film at all. It's a simple story. Again, if you don't like it fair enough, but your assessment is just bollocks really.

Seanny, please explain your justification for saying that A) the film is pretentious, and B) I have a history of being pretentious. Is it just you being a dimwit or is there actually some reasoning behind what you're saying?

I've got to say, although I heard the film was crap. I heard that it was poor because it was quite lightweight compared to something like The Selfish Giant, which is supposed to be more deep and meaningful. So the pretentious tab doesnt really work rather that you are more, as you have said, a bit of a philistine.

Simon

March 19th, 2014, 7:52 AM

Simon

March 19th, 2014, 7:53 AM

I've got to say, although I heard the film was crap. I heard that it was poor because it was quite lightweight compared to something like The Selfish Giant, which is supposed to be more deep and meaningful. So the pretentious tab doesnt really work rather that you are more, as you have said, a bit of a philistine.

Yeah exactly. I am happy to accept that someone wouldn't like it on that basis, and fully accept that I am a bit of a philistine, although it is something I am actively trying to improve on. Which I guess makes me less a philistine, which to me is someone who revels in being uncultured, and more just a thicko who wants to be cultured but struggles to manage it :D

Clive Plasma

March 19th, 2014, 9:32 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/91abdd90545f73cb687492aa2a052f50/tumblr_n2oqwiFjby1tp1soio1_500.jpg

76) Being Elmo (2011)

The Muppet Elmo is one of the most beloved characters among children across the globe. Meet the unlikely man behind the puppet - the heart and soul of Elmo - Kevin Clash.

8/10 - Very uplifting documentary showcasing Kevin’s drive and determination to achieve his dreams. The product of those dreams being the much loved Elmo character. Kevin seems like a genuinely decent person, and while I kind of expected some sort of dark secrets being uncovered about either Jim Henson or Kevin, you’re not given them whether they exist or not and are instead left with an overwhelming good feeling. Which is exactly what Elmo wants you to feel.

Alf

March 19th, 2014, 10:30 AM

Clive Plasma

March 19th, 2014, 10:35 AM

Seanny One Ball

March 19th, 2014, 3:37 PM

Clive Plasma

March 19th, 2014, 8:08 PM

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77) Under The Skin (2014)

An alien seductress preys upon hitchhikers in Scotland.

4/10 - The trailer (and Scarlett Johansson) drew me into this film - it looked mysterious, intense, haunting and weird. It was none of those things. It has become a dividing film among critics, but I feel that this film is one of those where the most pretentious of film lovers will rejoice. No plot, dialogue, meaning, or acting for that matter, it leaves you to fill in all of gaps. Of which there are lots.

There’s no wrong answer, because there isn’t an answer. Plenty of theories to explore, as film goers clutch at straws to try and comprehend where the last hour and half of their lives went. Expect this to be referred to as a “tour de force in avant garde”, or something else equally annoying. The meanings of this film were so drawn out and tenuous it got under my skin. If that was the aim of the film? Congratulations.

A collective sigh was audible from the audience in the cinema after this film. Whether it was people eager to leave, or people frustrated that they'd just spent money on this, or annoyed that they didn't get to see Scarlett Johansson naked anymore, everyone left disgruntled.

With all of that said, it had it's moments. The 'hidden' camera interactions with Scarlett and the Glasgow locals made for intriguing viewing, the vacant eyes of Scarlett throughout the film was at times chilling (in particular the scene on the beach) and the standout score to the film by Mica Levi was crucial to keeping the slight momentum it had, and therefore my interest to see it through to the end.

But all of those points could not save it from being just ‘OK’. Maybe Sci-fi fans will appreciate it more, but it was not for me.

Seanny One Ball

March 20th, 2014, 9:49 AM

The Rogerer

March 20th, 2014, 9:56 AM

Clive Plasma

March 20th, 2014, 9:57 AM

It was a big fat pile of nothing. I've thought about it more and more, and I can make sense of it a bit more, but it still doesn't change my rating.

You can picture people coming out of the cinema, sitting in a coffee shop, saying some sort of bullshit like, "Yeah but isn't it weird how the more human the alien became the less human the others became? What a homologous view on our modern existence. If you really think about it, the alien is all of us? And y'know when there wasn't any dialogue, wasn't that strange? I mean, maybe the reason that there's no dialogue is because it was a representation and a subtle dig at modern day storytellers using too many words?"... Absolute nonsense.

Naked Scarlett is dreamy though, and she was excellent in the film. I just didn't cream over the film like a lot of the critics have.

Mik

March 20th, 2014, 10:08 AM

Clive Plasma

March 20th, 2014, 10:14 AM

Seanny One Ball

March 20th, 2014, 10:17 AM

She's NAKED!?

I need to get on this, respect for getting her diddies out while they're still firm.

Clive Plasma

March 20th, 2014, 10:36 AM

Yeah, it's not worth the ticket fee to see it. I'd wait for a stream or something.

77 films down on day 79. Hopefully get back ahead of the curve this weekend.

So much TV stacking up to watch though. Going to be hard to keep this going I reckon.

The Rogerer

March 20th, 2014, 11:01 AM

Simon

March 20th, 2014, 11:05 AM

You've really sold that film to Simon Clive.

Ah so you read what I said, but conveniently ignored it. How unexpected.

Clive Plasma

March 20th, 2014, 11:42 AM

Actual baps out? Because that has been the holy grail of cinema for the last 10 years. She finally cashed in her Money in the Bank?

Actual baps out. There's pictures online.

The Rogerer

March 20th, 2014, 12:26 PM

Seanny One Ball

March 20th, 2014, 1:02 PM

Ah so you read what I said, but conveniently ignored it. How unexpected.

Read back you twit. I replied.

Clive Plasma

March 20th, 2014, 7:21 PM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/db2fd8d5558ce000ff5e8a23ff93b39f/tumblr_n2rcuy7KGv1tp1soio1_500.jpg

78) The Bling Ring (2013)

Inspired by actual events, a group of fame-obsessed teenagers use the internet to track celebrities’ whereabouts in order to rob their homes.

1/10 - Irritating tripe. Avoid at all costs.

firewall

March 21st, 2014, 7:06 PM

The_Mike

March 21st, 2014, 7:15 PM

Clive Plasma

March 23rd, 2014, 9:55 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/95d3449e27402f67dcaecdf47a799220/tumblr_n2w6m8EmPI1tp1soio1_500.jpg

79) Snowpiercer (2013)

In a future where a failed global-warming experiment kills off most life on the planet, a class system evolves aboard the Snowpiercer, a train that travels around the globe via a perpetual-motion engine.

9/10 - From the excellent directive mind of Joon-ho Bong (The Host, Mother, Memories of Murder), we get a captivating, violent and exciting film that while it has its flaws, is ultimately an incredible piece of film. Great cast with standout performances from Tilda Swinton and Chris Evans, a compelling narrative with enough of the bizarre surrealism, knife fights and bleak hopelessness you would come to expect in this English Language, South Korean directed, futuristic Sci-fi thriller. Sit back. Enjoy the ride. It’s fantastic.

Clive Plasma

March 23rd, 2014, 6:59 PM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/b3e99f7555123e53286d55bf2e771eae/tumblr_n2wvs7NO4b1tp1soio1_500.jpg

80) Starred Up (2013)

A troubled and explosively violent teenager is transferred to adult prison where he finally meets his match - a man who also happens to be his father.

9/10 - A near flawless prison drama with an outstanding lead performance by Jack O’Connell. Violent, graphic, brutally honest and unnervingly funny at times, it grabs you by the scruff of the neck, drags you into the showers and beats you to a pulp until the film is over. Sure, it is full of clichés, but it doesn’t matter when they are played out this well. Rupert Friend and Ben Mendelsohn surpass expectation too, but it is worth reiterating just how good O’Connell’s utterly convincing performance is.

One of the must-see films of the year so far.

Alf

March 23rd, 2014, 7:49 PM

How good is the "door opens, balaclavas" extended sequence in snowpiecer?

Swindon bosses it.

Clive Plasma

March 25th, 2014, 8:59 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/cafe38479a798c8debac0a5e6810217e/tumblr_n2zt1vf68X1tp1soio1_500.jpg

81) Friend (2001) [Original Title: Chin-gu]

Despite their different family backgrounds, four friends grew up together in the wearisome years of the 70s. But as time goes by, each of them takes a different life path. Slowly life takes difficult turns where friends become rivals in the crime world.

7/10 - A solid gangster film that sort of loses it’s way in the middle as the plot jumps about from decade to decade. Plenty of names to remember, allegiances to track and appearance changes to factor in, it would definitely benefit from a second viewing. Certainly not my favourite Korean movie, but has enough of the standard revenge, betrayal, friendship and violence that makes it worth checking out nonetheless.

Seanny One Ball

March 25th, 2014, 9:52 AM

Clive I would like to suggest another South Korean film for you called Poetry.
I saw it a couple of years ago and it was heavy stuff, I think you'd like it going by some of the films you've included in this list.

I dunno what it is with the Koreans but South Korean cinema is blowing almost everything else out of the water these days.

Beefy

March 25th, 2014, 10:11 AM

I love this thread. Wish I'd thought of it although I almost certainly wouldn't have stuck with it. Might see if I can do a blog or something.

Are you taking recommendations still Clive?

Clive Plasma

March 25th, 2014, 10:28 AM

Clive I would like to suggest another South Korean film for you called Poetry.
I saw it a couple of years ago and it was heavy stuff, I think you'd like it going by some of the films you've included in this list.

I dunno what it is with the Koreans but South Korean cinema is blowing almost everything else out of the water these days.

I agree. I was lucky enough to go to the South Korean Film Festival Premiere last year in London, and managed to go to about 3 other showings too. I love their revenge / thriller genre - Man from Nowhere, A Bittersweet Life, The Yellow Sea, I Saw The Devil, Hide & Seek, The Chaser, Friend, Oldboy - and they're just the ones I've seen. Still got to many more to watch.

I love this thread. Wish I'd thought of it although I almost certainly wouldn't have stuck with it. Might see if I can do a blog or something.

Are you taking recommendations still Clive?

Always. Fire em over.

Ringo

March 25th, 2014, 10:33 AM

Seanny One Ball

March 25th, 2014, 3:13 PM

Simmo Fortyone

March 25th, 2014, 5:47 PM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/95d3449e27402f67dcaecdf47a799220/tumblr_n2w6m8EmPI1tp1soio1_500.jpg

79) Snowpiercer (2013)

In a future where a failed global-warming experiment kills off most life on the planet, a class system evolves aboard the Snowpiercer, a train that travels around the globe via a perpetual-motion engine.

9/10 - From the excellent directive mind of Joon-ho Bong (The Host, Mother, Memories of Murder), we get a captivating, violent and exciting film that while it has its flaws, is ultimately an incredible piece of film. Great cast with standout performances from Tilda Swinton and Chris Evans, a compelling narrative with enough of the bizarre surrealism, knife fights and bleak hopelessness you would come to expect in this English Language, South Korean directed, futuristic Sci-fi thriller. Sit back. Enjoy the ride. It’s fantastic.
I'm always fascinated by movies with a dystopian setting. I'll check this one out :yes:

Mik

March 26th, 2014, 7:37 AM

I love this thread.

I do have to echo that, please keep it up.

Clive Plasma

March 26th, 2014, 8:04 AM

I reckon I'm going to fall behind this week. Team Social tonight, gig on Friday, flat viewings Saturday, Mothers day on Sunday.

That's at least a 10 film block I'm going to miss.

I feel a sick day coming on...

Clive Plasma

March 30th, 2014, 5:50 PM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/e594eda968f8c4965e5f18bdd3609115/tumblr_n39qkpVR1B1tp1soio1_500.jpg

82) Silver Linings Playbook (2013)

After a stint in a mental institution, former teacher Pat Solitano moves back in with his parents and tries to reconcile with his ex-wife. Things get more challenging when Pat meets Tiffany, a mysterious girl with problems of her own.

7/10 - Not much to say on this one, other than it was exactly as expected. A funny, off-beat and unique ‘romcom’ that was so far removed from the played out stereotypes you come to expect from this genre. It was refreshing and entertaining throughout, albeit with the exception of the very predictable last act.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/6a521be21625378e9749dbb578df967e/tumblr_n39r8mmljr1tp1soio1_500.jpg

83) Bad Words (2014)

A spelling bee loser sets out to exact revenge by finding a loophole and attempting to win as an adult.

6/10 - It’s an interesting role for Bateman who is remembered for the nice, rational thinking Michael Bluth, as he now takes on the role of a racist, nasty, emotionally angry, foul mouthed prick. Yet, with all of that said, you find yourself rooting for him at times with no real knowledge for the most part as to why he is the way he is, and why he’s doing what he’s doing. Frustratingly, even with the ‘big reveal’, it didn’t really answer why he was that much of a racist dick.

It’s cheap, obnoxious, invariably offensive laughs, and certainly not as clever as you could have hoped, but Bateman’s “Bad Words” is certainly better than some of the other rubbish he’s been roped into putting out since finishing Arrested Development.

It's worth leaving the trailer up for Bad Words...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXoZCAVTzEQ

Clive Plasma

April 2nd, 2014, 3:05 PM

Sundance London
https://31.media.tumblr.com/621b98482ce18df2f6a84010b2aa4afe/tumblr_n3f3iry4o61tp1soio1_500.jpg
https://24.media.tumblr.com/363cbf429cb9e0549fdf2d4a277f19c0/tumblr_n3f3iry4o61tp1soio3_500.jpg
https://31.media.tumblr.com/2384dcb8ba7e01794968d3fbd3f2adb3/tumblr_n3f3iry4o61tp1soio2_r1_500.jpg

Booked a film for each day of the festival. Managed to get tickets for the European Premiere of The Trip to Italy, the romcom parody starring Amy Poehler & Paul Rudd, They Came Together, and the highly rated revenge thriller, Blue Ruin. Can’t wait.

Clive Plasma

April 2nd, 2014, 6:04 PM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/f848cf458ca045e42b3792690adfd62e/tumblr_n3fbakkDT01tp1soio1_500.jpg
84) Hud (1963)

Hud is the story of the title character - a young Texas rancher named Hud Bannon (Paul Newman), the son of moral patriarch, law-abiding cattleman Homer Bannon (Melvyn Douglas) in Texas.

7/10 - A bleak, impeccably shot and well acted film. It felt very authentic, not that I know much about Texas ranch life in the 1960s, but the raw emotion pouring out of Paul Newmans character, the issues faced by those on the ranch and the sheer likability of Patricia Neals character all made for an endearing film.

Thanks SOB for the suggestion.

https://24.media.tumblr.com/40daf77a158de18906192ab4ff900e9a/tumblr_n3fbv5DUeG1tp1soio1_500.jpg

85) Confessions (2010) (Original title: Kokuhaku)

A psychological thriller of a grieving mother turned cold-blooded avenger with a twisty master plan to pay back those who were responsible for her daughter’s death.

7/10 - The first act was unbelievable, and manages to create such an incredible amount of tension that had it carried on in the same way it would have been on for a perfect score. Instead, we’re challenged to follow a strange narrative whereby some of the stories overlap, some don’t, and all chop and change between past, present and future. Even so, it is stylishly done and provides a different slant on the usual stabfests you come to expect when you see the words “korean thriller”.

Not what I expected, but a good film nonetheless.

Mik

April 3rd, 2014, 4:59 AM

Clive Plasma

April 3rd, 2014, 5:09 AM

Love Hud. One of Newman's best. God I love that man.

I've seen Cool Hand Luke, and loved it. Any others of his to recommend?

Mik

April 3rd, 2014, 5:18 AM

Cool Hand Luke is possibly my all time favourite film.

Oh yes, The Hustler is great. The Sting and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid are both excellent. The Sting is probably pretty close to a perfect movie as far as I'm concerned. The Verdict is a great older Newman performance. Then add on The Towering Inferno and I think you've got your essential Newman there.

Clive Plasma

April 4th, 2014, 4:09 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/2e2d2929395a394549459032669c4872/tumblr_n3hylyXV8L1tp1soio1_500.jpg

86) Rushmore (1998)

The king of Rushmore prep school is put on academic probation.

8/10 - This is only the second Wes Anderson film I’ve seen, but drawn in by the direction and quirkiness of Royal Tenenbaums, I had always looked forward to watching Rushmore. An enjoyable comedy, with a near perfect soundtrack, starring a young Jason Schwartzman as a odd adolescent with good intentions spurred on by his love for his school and the 1st grade teacher played by Olivia Williams. Both of which play excellently well off Bill Murray, the miserable millionaire, who acts out each scene with a certain dreariness and nonchalance that makes his character, for me, the highlight of the film. Overall, it captures the innocence of teenage frustrations perfectly, a combination of bleakness and excitability, much like school life.

Seanny One Ball

April 4th, 2014, 9:57 AM

I've seen Cool Hand Luke, and loved it. Any others of his to recommend?

Cool Hand Luke is possibly my all time favourite film.

Oh yes, The Hustler is great. The Sting and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid are both excellent. The Sting is probably pretty close to a perfect movie as far as I'm concerned. The Verdict is a great older Newman performance. Then add on The Towering Inferno and I think you've got your essential Newman there.

I also recommended Hombre to Clive which I believe he has on his list, have you ever seen it?
If you haven't you really need to get on that Mik, it's Newman all over.

Clive I'm glad you enjoyed Hud, it was an intensely morose performance from Newman but Melvyn Douglas and Patricia Neal really amped the feeling up.
On a sidenote the guy that plays Lonnie died about ten years after the film, that depressed the shit out of me.

Clive Plasma

April 4th, 2014, 10:42 AM

On a sidenote the guy that plays Lonnie died about ten years after the film, that depressed the shit out of me.

Ironic that he died in a car accident, when his brother in the film died in the same vein.

Seanny One Ball

April 4th, 2014, 10:50 AM

Clive Plasma

April 4th, 2014, 10:56 AM

Ah yes. My mistake. I think he was his Dad.

I'm falling behind with this. I don't think the 365 is achievable right now. I'm about 8 behind, and I'm going to lose another 3 days this weekend. Brutal. Still an enjoyable project though.

Seanny One Ball

April 4th, 2014, 11:01 AM

The Rogerer

April 4th, 2014, 11:32 AM

Seanny One Ball

April 4th, 2014, 11:37 AM

Clive Plasma

April 4th, 2014, 11:52 AM

Seanny One Ball

April 4th, 2014, 12:01 PM

Not if the short film is ace though.

I saw one a couple of years ago about this brother and sister living on farmland and the brother brings a dead body back to the house to give to the sister to look after as if he's alive.
Then a propeller nearly falls on him. Shit was wild.

Clive Plasma

April 4th, 2014, 12:29 PM

I loved the short film called "The Lost Thing"...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1YG7ZXfC6g

Seanny One Ball

April 4th, 2014, 12:33 PM

Sweet I'll give that a go at work when I'm bored sometime ;)

Still need to get some more South Korean films.

Mik

April 5th, 2014, 5:52 AM

Clive Plasma

April 5th, 2014, 6:30 AM

Still need to get some more South Korean films.

I have these South Korean ones lined up - Mother, Coldfish, Memories of Murder, The Quiet Family, The Five, The Terror (Live)...

Seanny One Ball

April 5th, 2014, 2:36 PM

Clive Plasma

April 6th, 2014, 3:34 AM

Mik

April 6th, 2014, 6:23 AM

Seanny One Ball

April 6th, 2014, 7:15 AM

Mik

April 6th, 2014, 7:22 AM

Clive Plasma

April 6th, 2014, 7:26 AM

I don't even know what happened. The beginning was good, the end was good, partly funny, but all the shit in the middle was just nonsensical rubbish.

I'd been drinking all day, so it's probably fair to say that I wasn't of a sound state of mind when trying to piece it all together, but even still, it wasn't for me.

Clive Plasma

April 6th, 2014, 7:40 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/835cc393fbf29ceda64b1056e1140d62/tumblr_n3lxn6jboM1tp1soio1_500.jpg

87) Filth (2013)

A bipolar, bigoted junkie cop manipulates and hallucinates his way through the festive season in a bid to secure promotion and win back his wife and daughter.

4/10 - I really wanted to like this movie, but just didn’t. It started out with a simple enough premise, and had the laughs to go along with it, but somewhere in the middle the laughs stopped. There was nothing. Just bizarre, nonsensical, over-acted, try hard rubbish that made it near impossible to follow.

A caveat to this is that I had been at a beer festival all day, and perhaps watching this film when my ability to interpret pretty much anything is significantly reduced, meant that the score and review I’ve given it could be perceived as harsh. It’s one of those polarising films, and while I was not of entirely sound mind, I was sober enough to know which side I was on. Oh well. Onto the next one.

Alf

April 6th, 2014, 8:22 AM

I thought the first half was like a movie out of place in time. It should have been released 15 years ago. I thought the 2nd half was much better (apart from the end) with an absolutely incredible performance from McAvoy. The bit where he breaks down on the stair well. Blimey.

Poots is delicious.

Seanny One Ball

April 6th, 2014, 8:46 AM

Mik

April 6th, 2014, 9:44 AM

Clive Plasma

April 9th, 2014, 12:26 PM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/53d62c523c6fde4c0f8afa7195abbd62/tumblr_n3ruwokro51tp1soio1_500.jpg

88) Forks Over Knives (2011)

Examines the profound claim that most, if not all, of the degenerative diseases that afflict us can be controlled, or even reversed, by rejecting our present menu of animal-based and processed foods.

5/10 - A load of Vegan Propaganda, but an interesting discussion point nonetheless. It’s a discussion that could be more suitable to Americans than anyone else, since the implications of having to pay for the Diabetic medications and the health issues facing America as a nation are far worse than anywhere else in the western world.

Forks Over Knives puts forward the argument that you should not eat any meat or any dairy. It uses “science” (rats being forcefed protein, Nazi food rations and selective evidence) to illustrate that an increase in these food groups leads to an increase in the risk of some of the worst diseases out there. They follow individuals as they adopt this diet, most of which are overweight and on an obscene amount of medication, all of whom manage to lose weight and get off the medication. Who’d have thought that cutting out fatty foods, eating less, and not taking drugs would reduce weight and side effects.

There are a number of websites out there that aim to debunk a lot of this. The most comprehensive was this (http://anthonycolpo.com/forks-over-knives-the-latest-vegan-nonsense-dissected-debunked-and-destroyed/) from Anthony Colpo, where he draws on his own take on the Chinese research shown in the film, and Denise Minger (http://rawfoodsos.com/2011/09/22/forks-over-knives-is-the-science-legit-a-review-and-critique/)'s extensive take on the documentary itself. As with any documentary you have to consider the alternate agenda they are putting forward, but this was just too Anti-Meat for it to ever be totally convincing.

There are elements you can use, but most of us already know it. Don’t adopt a strictly Vegan diet off the back of this, it looks thoroughly miserable, just eat less crappy foods.

"Eat to live, not live to eat"… I’d rather die if it meant eating nothing but leaves.

Clive Plasma

April 11th, 2014, 4:21 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/71b50a9c5634860696a45fa5158b8d2f/tumblr_n3uwgkCD701tp1soio1_500.jpg

89) Good Night, and Good Luck (2005)

Broadcast journalist Edward R. Murrow looks to bring down Senator Joseph McCarthy.

8/10 - A fantastic, intelligent film addressing not only the role of the media back then, but could be served as a parallel for the role of the media now. The straight talking, seriousness of the film is carried along by the strong cast, in particular, David Strathairn, whose portrayal of Edward Murrow is near perfect. Anyone interested in McCarthyism, Journalism or general 1950’s nostalgia should watch this film - you won’t be disappointed.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/5c2831c2ac45af8d573fdad7aa8d434c/tumblr_n3uxseh0Hf1tp1soio1_500.jpg

90) 36th Precinct (2004) 36 Quai des Orfèvres (original title)

The film takes place in Paris, where two cops are competing for the vacant seat of chief of the Paris Criminal police while involved in a search for a gang of violent thieves. The film is directed by Olivier Marchal, a former police officer who spent 12 years in the French police. The story is loosely inspired from real events which occurred during the 1980s in France (see the gang des postiches arrest). The film was nominated for eight César Awards.

9/10 - An intense cop thriller that trudges on without any of the cheesiness you would expect from a cop movie, and without any ridiculous action sequences that are usually slotted in there to pick up the pace. However, what it does have is depth and realism, as we follow the two anti-heroes (one more of a hero than the other) waging a war not only against the criminals in the city, but against each other. It’s captivating viewing, brilliantly acted with an impeccable score, and it rises to the top of a somewhat saturated genre.

Clive Plasma

April 15th, 2014, 8:07 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/a054d45f2bb43bf5683a39947afa0db6/tumblr_n42m94N9Ky1tp1soio1_500.jpg

91) The Informant (2009)

The U.S. government decides to go after an agro-business giant with a price-fixing accusation, based on the evidence submitted by their star witness, vice president-turned-informant Mark Whitacre.

8/10 - I’m always slightly skeptical of the ‘based on a true story’ films, due to the sheer sensationalism or artistic licence they incorporate in order to get bums on seats, but this one did not disappoint. Matt Damon plays the unhinged character of Mark Whitacre in this funny, weird and interesting film that combines the inner ramblings and the ‘dumb’ persona of the lead to comedic effect. So much so, you almost forget that this is a real story, with real people and real money. Not all that funny anymore…

https://24.media.tumblr.com/62a6c75ef416d3dcf0a2b5d433f7722f/tumblr_n42mwy3U0m1tp1soio1_500.jpg

92) Rust and Bone (2012) (Original Title: De rouille et d’os)

Put in charge of his young son, Alain leaves Belgium for Antibes to live with his sister and her husband as a family. Alain’s bond with Stephanie, a killer whale trainer, grows deeper after Stephanie suffers a horrible accident.

9/10 - From the brilliant directorial mind of Jacques Audiard (A Prophet, The Beat That My Heart Skipped), Rust and Bone is an incredible piece of cinema. A mature tale of love, loneliness and family as we are led through a series of unpredictable events that forces the characters to confront their troubles. We are made to empathise with them, and what on paper appears to be quite a brutal and traumatic journey, is also much like his films before this, a pleasant and intriguing drama. Highly recommended.

Slare

April 15th, 2014, 11:51 AM

Clive Plasma

April 22nd, 2014, 4:50 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/5c9caa82c02d23c73ed0238bfded2c36/tumblr_n4fcbeghCN1tp1soio1_500.jpg

93) Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

An urbane fox cannot resist returning to his farm raiding ways and then must help his community survive the farmers’ retaliation.

7/10 - Odd, deadpan and visually captivating. A very entertaining movie. This is not your ordinary kids movie, it had an emotional and philosophical depth that although not ‘ordinary’, was expected and welcomed from the mind of Wes Anderson.

Beefy

April 22nd, 2014, 5:11 AM

Alf

April 22nd, 2014, 5:23 AM

Clive Plasma

April 22nd, 2014, 5:29 AM

I love the Wolf bit.

Yeah, probably my favourite part of the film.

Clive Plasma

April 22nd, 2014, 11:52 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/062f4c59c86510a24650e9fdd1d7d74b/tumblr_n4fw1cLPvh1tp1soio1_500.jpg

94) Love Liza (2002)

Following the unexplained suicide of his wife Liza, a web designer turns to gasoline fumes and remote-control airplanes while avoiding an inevitable conflict with his mother-in-law.

6/10 - Pitched as a ‘Tragicomedy’, the film leans more towards tragedy than comedy. There are brief moments of dark comedy among the depressing tediousness, but above all is a monotonous tale of loneliness, grief and escapism. Taking into account the little information we are given, and the lack of character development, it is hard to imagine any one else delivering a performance like Hoffman did to the extent that he alone made this film bearable

Seanny One Ball

April 22nd, 2014, 7:31 PM

Fantastic Mr Fox was my favourite book as a kid.

Georges Marvellous Medicine.

I poured a bottle of Tobasco in my sisters eye because of that.

Clive Plasma

April 23rd, 2014, 4:51 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/06dc104af15f8b67d01c26bab13ac445/tumblr_n4h71unTy11tp1soio1_500.jpg

95) Mistaken for Strangers (2014)

Tom Berninger chronicles his time spent on the road as a member of the tour crew for The National, the rock & roll band fronted by his brother, Matt. Hailed by Michael Moore as “one of the best documentaries about a band that I’ve ever seen” and by Pitchfork as “the funniest, most meta music movie since Spinal Tap”.

9/10 - I really didn’t expect this. All I knew about this was that the documentary was about The National, and it was receiving widespread acclaim. As a fan, I was naturally intrigued. What quickly becomes apparent is that instead of your standard band based documentary, we’re presented with a much different perspective.

It’s a documentary shot unintentionally in the style of a home movie, which shifts focus from the band, on to an awkwardly funny, at times cringe-worthy, sibling rivalry. The key to it’s success here is that it’s film maker; the scruffy, underachieving, metalhead brother who still lives with his parents, just wants the same level of fame that Matt has. On tour, he has good intentions, but it’s mixed with his lackadaisical attitude which ultimately has a knock-on effect on those on the tour with him. Heightened by his documentary ‘style’ of questioning ("Do you take your wallets on stage?"), it is just bewildering and heartwarming at the same time as you really see him try to succeed.

An excellent documentary, and you don’t have to be a fan of The National to enjoy this.

McBain

April 23rd, 2014, 5:13 AM

Maaaaan, hadn't heard about this.

Can't wait to check it out. :hyper:

Clive Plasma

April 23rd, 2014, 4:49 PM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/2951d5b77e44c1a52ba05a8ae15e328d/tumblr_n4i47uTUJE1tp1soio1_r1_500.jpg

96) The Den (2014)

A young woman studying the habits of webcam chat users from the apparent safety of her apartment witnesses a brutal murder online and is quickly immersed in a nightmare in which she and her loved ones are targeted for the same grisly fate as the first victim.

7/10 - I very rarely watch horror films. Not because I don’t want to, but because they all follow the same tried and tested format and I’m tired of them. You know what’s coming as the victim does the opposite of whatever rational thought would be, and it all ends with someone getting out safely to set it up for a sequel and possibly more.

This film interested me because I had recently read an article about a guy who witnessed his girlfriends murder on webcam (http://www.torontosun.com/2014/03/28/ex-boyfriend-to-take-stand-in-webcam-murder-trial), and while the trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9R8L6D7nnxo) doesn’t give much away, both did enough to creep me out and put aside my hatred of the current state of horror films to give this a watch.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8BaGJ843vAY/UzgOM7E-WkI/AAAAAAAAGn8/koTeHFgo4RU/s1600/The-Den-Official-Trailer-2014-Melanie-Papalia-Horror-Mov-1024x576.png
I was very surprised at how good this film was. It has room for improvement, but needless to say I was fairly spooked throughout. The film is uniquely shot, shown always from the POV of a desktop screen, laptop camera or phone camera, as we see windows open and closing, flickering between different devices creating this impending lack of control. Starting out with the familiarity of the idiocy of some of the people on the internet, we are lured into this environment in an almost jovial manner only to have the rug pulled from beneath us. Cleverly edited, with a few cheap ‘jumpy’ moments spliced with moments of violence, it doesn’t rely on one type of ‘scare’ to get you. It’s not a constant “He’s behind you” film either. Far from it. It’s not excessive, it’s simple and effective and for all its flaws, the final scene alone made me realise why I used to love horror films.

Clive Plasma

April 26th, 2014, 6:40 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/6b427b10cd4fdbf31e6408429d35fe39/tumblr_n4mw8aWUiT1tp1soio1_500.jpg
97) The Trip To Italy (2014)

Two men, six meals in six different places on a road trip around Italy. Liguria, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi and ending in Capri.

8/10 - First film I’ve been to see at the Sundance Festival in London, and I was not disappointed. I deliberately avoided the TV series that has been showing on BBC over the past few weeks, to keep the condensed film version of the series a complete surprise. As was the case with the first one, I am sure that there are certain moments were cut that were comedic gold, but nevertheless the film lived up to expectations.

Interesting character shift for Brydon and Coogan when compared to the last one, it felt like Brydon carried the film with his irritating behaviour as Steve was more subdued trying to pass off this subdued ‘changed man’ persona. It had the usual impressions, ramblings, subtle jibes that we come to expect from The Trip. It felt like a lot of repetition, but for some reason it doesn’t get tiresome. The more they do the impressions and the digs at each other, even if they are the same ones, they get funnier. In a interview with Rob Brydon he said that was deliberate (http://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/entertainment/articles/2014-04/05/the-trip-to-italy-bbc-rob-brydon-interview), it’s just what you do when you go on holiday with mates. Same chat, different place.

I can’t wait to watch the series now to see what they cut out. Good film.

Clive Plasma

April 30th, 2014, 3:55 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/90fcaed0657f0bb2f940fc06cdea751e/tumblr_n4u39g4rTd1tp1soio1_500.jpg

98) They Came Together (2014)

They Came Together from director David Wain puts a classic spin on the romantic comedies of recent years past, with Paul Rudd and Amy Poehler as two polar opposites who grow to love each other in grand tradition

8/10 - To clarify, this is not a romcom. It is a parody of the genre, and a funny one at that. It’s weird, because it’s getting panned by a fair few reviewers and they’re likening it to the ‘Scary Movie’ style of humour. David Wain himself said that he didn’t want it to become a play by play of predictable movie spoofs, and while as Buzzfeed (http://www.buzzfeed.com/jarettwieselman/is-amy-poehler-paul-rudds-new-rom-com-the-most-star-studded)points out it does reference a lot of romcoms in one way shape or form, it comes across much more like a Naked Gun style of parody where it plays on an entire genre. Just enjoy it for what it is - dumb, silly and funny.

It is also worth noting that most audiences are so accustomed to nonsensical romcoms that in the initial screenings it wasn’t clear that it was a parody. David Wain said that later in the editing process they then had to add in a narrative aspect whereby it’s a story being told at the dinner table to friends. Quite how a french waiter described as “having a pole up his ass” and then literally having a pole up his ass can be taken seriously, I will never know.

Highly recommended, great cast - hits theatres and VOD on June 27th.

Clive Plasma

April 30th, 2014, 5:37 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/a0b04097f922cb771744f37d77ceda40/tumblr_n4u6wlKxpA1tp1soio1_r2_500.jpg

99) Blue Ruin (2014)

A mysterious outsider’s quiet life is turned upside down when he returns to his childhood home to carry out an act of vengeance. Proving himself an amateur assassin, he winds up in a brutal fight to protect his estranged family.

9/10 - Off the back of winning the International Critics Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, I got the chance to see Blue Ruin as my final film at the Sundance Film Festival in London. “Revenge Thriller” is a term I associate with some of the best Korean movies I’ve seen, and Taken, but those always include something “special” - Ex-military, captured for years, long choreographed fight scenes etc. This film has none of that.

It is an honest but brutal portrayal of deep-seated emotional revenge. Dark and subdued, it manages to maintain a slow build of tension and violence as it splices with the occasional pieces of humour. The “special” aspect in this film, isn’t any one storyline characteristic, but the film itself. It’s director Jeremy Saulnier who began a career making corporate videos and adverts has found his calling. This is an incredible piece of work.

Available on VOD now and in UK cinemas this weekend.

Clive Plasma

April 30th, 2014, 12:23 PM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/9af453a6d2e436d3ec30a9f76d91c492/tumblr_n4uqt034UU1tp1soio1_500.jpg

100) Le Donk & Scor-zay-zee (2009)

Rock roadie, Le Donk, has lived, loved and learned. Along the way, he’s lost a classy girlfriend but gained a sidekick, Scorz-Ayz-Ee. He sets out to make Scorz a star with a little help from the Artic Monkeys.

5/10 - As much as I like Shane Meadows and Paddy Considine, this film did very little for me. It had it’s moments, but it felt like a slog and wasn’t quite the ‘mockumentary’ I expected it to be. Considine’s character was so unconvincing, even for the sake of exaggerated comedy. I guess I just expected more.

MikeHunt

April 30th, 2014, 12:39 PM

Yup I went expecting great things with le donk yet was massively let down as it's a steaming pile of shite.

5/10, is generous.

Clive Plasma

April 30th, 2014, 1:37 PM

Mik

May 5th, 2014, 2:06 PM

Clive Plasma

May 5th, 2014, 2:31 PM

Nice one. It's a great film. More people should check it out if they can, worth going to the cinema for too.

I'm quite far behind on this now (about 24), but it's still doable. Just got a lot on my plate at the moment.

Also, just went to Barcelona this weekend, and with the weather improving here in the UK I doubt I will spend much time inside. We’ll see how it pans out. Anyway, maybe some kind of summary is in order.

Top 10 Films out of the 1 - 100

1. Wolf of Wall Street
2. 12 Years A Slave
3. Short Term 12
4. Dear Zachary
5. Blue Ruin
6. Starred Up
7. Selfish Giant
8. Nyphomaniac Vol. I
9. Moneyball
10. Mistaken for Strangers

Going to try and blitz through 2 more tonight. Then found a few lists online about top films under 80 minutes or so. Some really interesting choices here (http://www.andsoitbeginsfilms.com/2012/03/15-great-movies-under-85-minutes.html) and here (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-farr/short-but-sweet-the-ten-b_b_1855833.html), and looking at the comments sections too, there's a lot of films I'm quite keen to see now.

Clive Plasma

May 6th, 2014, 9:11 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/289f852db0f724d42d6e6748ffa86301/tumblr_n55kvlZN4Q1tp1soio1_500.jpg

101) The Lego Movie (2014)

An ordinary Lego construction worker, thought to be the prophesied ‘Special’, is recruited to join a quest to stop an evil tyrant from gluing the Lego universe into eternal stasis.

8/10 - A pleasant tale about imagination and uniqueness, it is what most are referring to as “this generations Toy Story”, and while it isn’t as consistently good as the original Toy Story, it is an excellent movie in it’s own right. It’s funny, quick witted and highly entertaining. Visually impressive, fast paced with a great cast, and more than enough for both adults and children to enjoy.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/fa6af725541009e998bc4514cae46330/tumblr_n55lryiANO1tp1soio1_500.jpg

102) Election (2005) Original Title: Hak se wui

Rival gang leaders are locked in a struggle to become the new chairman of Hong Kong’s Triad society.

9/10 - Described by Tarantino as “The best film of the year (2005)”, this Hong Kong gangster epic does not disappoint. An excellent portrayal of family feuds, triad traditions and the bloody crime world that supports it all. It is intense, violent and realistic, and if this is anything to go by, I cannot wait to watch the critically acclaimed sequel Election 2 (Triad Election) next.

Simon

May 6th, 2014, 10:04 AM

I finally saw The Lego Movie after wanting to see it for ages...I was worried after all the hype that I'd be disappointed but it was great. Incredibly inventive, fast-paced and managed ot keep you guessing while maintaining a logical storyline. I loved it.

EDIT: Also, there's a joke about a Japanese film called Election and their pronunciation of it, but I think we can all agree that we should just move past it.

Clive Plasma

May 6th, 2014, 6:47 PM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/3ee89ea2d319dc178c19ae067f5bd6b9/tumblr_n56c34BYPK1tp1soio1_500.jpg

103) Deadfall (2012)

A thriller that follows two siblings who decide to fend for themselves in the wake of a botched casino heist, and their unlikely reunion during another family’s Thanksgiving celebration.

4/10 - A boring, poorly written, unnecessarily violent, ‘mystery thriller’ without any of the mystery or thrill you would come to expect. The cast, in particular Eric Bana, did the best with what they were given, but even that couldn’t save it from it’s thin plot and awful characters.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/5a9597530ad23a8b15e548a3083ff080/tumblr_n56civ8Bgu1tp1soio1_500.jpg

104) Columbiana (2011)

A young woman, after witnessing her parents’ murder as a child in Bogota, grows up to be a stone-cold assassin.

6/10 - If you like improbable, predictable, unrealistic, convenient action movies, then this is one for you. It’s far from boring, Zoe Saldana looks incredible throughout and while some of the action sequences (specifically the hand to hand combat scenes) appear to be a bit hastily put together, it still manages to come across as quite a well accomplished film.

Ringo

May 10th, 2014, 3:59 PM

Top 10 Films out of the 1 - 100

1. Wolf of Wall Street
2. 12 Years A Slave
3. Short Term 12
4. Dear Zachary
5. Blue Ruin
6. Starred Up
7. Selfish Giant
8. Nyphomaniac Vol. I
9. Moneyball
10. Mistaken for Strangers

Nice list. I've seen seven of those (not 6, 8 or 10 yet) and liked them all a lot. Need to get around to Nymphomaniac soon.

The Rogerer

May 10th, 2014, 6:38 PM

Mik

May 10th, 2014, 6:55 PM

Kdestiny

May 10th, 2014, 7:40 PM

Clive Plasma

May 12th, 2014, 8:03 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/ecc37ade3df8c4603d4950eebfd5ad12/tumblr_n5gm7zQrHb1tp1soio1_500.jpg

105) Joe (2014)

An ex-con, who is the unlikeliest of role models, meets a 15-year-old boy and is faced with the choice of redemption or ruin.

8/10 - A solid return to form from Nicholas Cage, and a great supporting role from Tye Sheridan too. It was a gripping, slightly uneasy but an expertly acted drama. I can’t remember the last time I enjoyed a Nicholas Cage film as much as this one. Highly recommended.

https://24.media.tumblr.com/492014e13e9fe0936a0261f05a66bc95/tumblr_n5gmqqrOnU1tp1soio1_500.jpg

106) Drinking Buddies (2013)

Luke and Kate are coworkers at a brewery who spend their nights drinking and flirting heavily. One weekend away together with their significant others proves who really belongs together and who doesn’t.

7/10 - It’s a misleading premise, but a welcomed one. You see the poster and the cast, and I assumed it was some sort of Hangover styled romcom. Far from it. Instead we have a realistic portrayal of the classic scenario of being mates with someone from the opposite sex, but also being in a relationship, where people ask themselves the question - is the grass greener on the other side? It’s not ‘laugh out loud’ funny, it’s barely even a comedy, but it is an interesting watch.

Simon

May 12th, 2014, 8:10 AM

I thought Drinking Buddies was pretty dull. Olivia Wilde is great though.

Anna Kendrick is great in everything she's in as well actually.

Clive Plasma

May 12th, 2014, 8:18 AM

Clive Plasma

May 12th, 2014, 12:31 PM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/8c0b9ba29b278f3dcb00e56613cc0e99/tumblr_n5gz2yO1Sq1tp1soio1_500.jpg

107) Enemy (2014)

A man seeks out his exact look-alike after spotting him in a movie.

9/10 - Based on José Saramago’s 2002 novel “The Double”, we see the pairing of Denis Villeneuve and Jake Gyllenhaal shot before, but released after, their highly successful film “Prisoners”. It’s difficult to describe this film without giving too much away, and one of the great things about this film is that it leaves it entirely open to your own interpretation, as there have been no comments made from Villeneuve as to what the ending means.

It is dark and odd, shot in this musky yellow hue and while you sit there trying to figure out what is happening, the clues as to what is going on can pass you by. Multiple watches of this could be required, and no doubt as soon as you find the answer to one question, another question will appear.

Gyllenhaal is fantastic, the story is intriguing and the score is tweaky and unsettling. The final image is horrible. Highly recommended and one of the most interesting films I’ve watched on this challenge.

My interpretation and spoilers below;

My interpretation of it is that Gyllenhaal's character(s) are the same person. The spiders represent the web of lies he has made, and he is genuinely that delusional that he believes he has an identical 'body double'. There are some really clever moments pointing to the ongoing theme of this 'web', such as the smash on the car screen or the wires overhead, but above all else he is man repressed by repetition, and has a web of lies so deep that even he has managed convince himself of his doubles existence.

Kdestiny

May 12th, 2014, 1:07 PM

Mik

May 12th, 2014, 2:41 PM

Clive Plasma

May 12th, 2014, 3:03 PM

Clive Plasma

May 14th, 2014, 5:13 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/1b7110c1b67f103669f1dd5479b8b5d2/tumblr_n5k2f2HCwS1tp1soio1_500.jpg

108) The Queen of Versailles (2012)

A documentary that follows a billionaire couple as they begin construction on a mansion inspired by Versailles. During the next two years, their empire, fueled by the real estate bubble and cheap money, falters due to the economic crisis.

6/10 - It was alright. What was interesting wasn’t the personal story about how they met which felt more like a Desperate Housewives of *insert state* episode, but how David Segel made his money and how the family went into complete meltdown once it was gone.

I hate the thought of a timeshare; based on what I saw in this, combined with King of the Hill (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1c_LGdxJnc) and that South Park 'Ass-pen' episode (http://www.southparkstudios.com/clips/153326/timeshare-conspiracy), the billions Segel made by swindling innocent people in his timeshare business only made his eventual financial collapse all the more entertaining. Combine this with the fact that they have 8 kids, they had to lose all their staff (which included 10-15 nannys), which resulted in a complete lack of order, dogs shitting all over the house, mess everywhere and culminates in their pathetic attempts at trying to “scrape” together millions to finish off this monstrosity, I didn’t feel sorry for them at all.

I felt sorry for the people who got swindled and the staff who got fired. I’m not entirely sure what the point of this documentary was, but I’m assuming it certainly wasn’t that. They even tried to get defamation damages out of the filmmakers after the documentary was aired - maybe they realised how ridiculous they all looked.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/863e8389511d5439a3ea4eff24ec1695/tumblr_n5k34bPenX1tp1soio1_500.jpg

109) The Summit (2012)

The story of the deadliest day on the world’s most dangerous mountain, when 11 climbers mysteriously perished on K2.

7/10 - Not sure why this won an Editing prize at Sundance, because for me that was it’s biggest flaw. Chopping and changing between chronological approaches, to recreations, back to the beginning again - it made very little sense to edit it this way.

Other than that, The Summit is exactly what you expect it to be. A classic tale of Man vs Nature whereby Nature wins. No matter what preparations are made, one wrong move will seal your fate. It is well researched and goes into significant detail both regards to the mountain itself and the climbers on it. Visually stunning too, but that is marred by the tragedy the documentary sets out to explore.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/7af05eb17700964d861857d43faa26fe/tumblr_n5k43p9xy31tp1soio1_500.jpg

110) Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)

A documentary on 85-year-old sushi master Jiro Ono, his business in the Ginza Tokio Subway station, and his relationship with his son and eventual heir, Yoshikazu.

8/10 - Simple and effective. There is no narrative, no big reveal, no twists, no key political message (although it does touch upon overfishing)… it just a great portrayal of Jiro and his work. Excellent musical score to accompany it, as for extended periods you are left to just watch Jiro and his team at work, with no commentary. An educating, interesting and hunger inducing documentary. Highly recommended.

Alf

May 14th, 2014, 5:24 AM

I found Jiro excruciatingly boring.

You need to go see Next Goal Wins.

Mik

May 14th, 2014, 5:34 AM

Clive Plasma

May 14th, 2014, 5:35 AM

I found Jiro excruciatingly boring.

You need to go see Next Goal Wins.

I can see why you would.

That's showing at a few places near me, I'll try and see it this weekend.

Off sick at the moment, so hoping to catch up on that deficit of the 365.

Clive Plasma

May 14th, 2014, 5:38 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_S4C2nQZlSA

Looks brilliant.

Ringo

May 14th, 2014, 6:14 AM

Clive Plasma

May 15th, 2014, 9:13 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/5cab2a0deb10c8bb07dd5a7d2ec2a1d8/tumblr_n5m8nxGOmB1tp1soio1_500.jpg

111) Bad Ass 2: Bad Asses (2014)

Frank Vega teams up with grumpy old agoraphobic Bernie Pope to kick ass and clean up the streets of L.A.

4/10 - It was exactly as expected - corny, predictable and almost identical to the first movie.

https://24.media.tumblr.com/e8e05aaeb3110fdabaedd72ade01f0c8/tumblr_n5m97f5xtq1tp1soio1_500.jpg

112) Monsters University (2013)

A look at the relationship between Mike and Sulley during their days at Monsters University — when they weren’t necessarily the best of friends.

7/10 - Some might consider this to be an unnecessary prequel, but it is an entertaining one at that. Hard to believe that it was 12 years ago that the original was made. Even now when we know what to expect, it is so bafflingly creative that you can’t help but sit in awe at how far animation has come, as you see the sheer variety of monsters come and go across your screen. Very funny script for both adults and children but a slightly sappy message behind the whole film - is that to do with the Disney acquisition? I doubt it. Overall - It’s good, not great, but worth a watch if you liked the original.

https://24.media.tumblr.com/b4407fd7809fa234e564af548577a52e/tumblr_n5m9luWplp1tp1soio1_500.jpg

113) Red 2 (2013)

Retired C.I.A. agent Frank Moses reunites his unlikely team of elite operatives for a global quest to track down a missing portable nuclear device.

5/10 - Same as the first one, only less fun. There was more violence and explosions if that’s your thing? There was also the welcomed inclusion of Byung-hun Lee who injected a bit of class to the proceedings with his fight scenes, otherwise it just bumbled about from scene to scene with everyone somehow getting out alive each time. I know that’s usually the point, but it was just so generic and long (100+ minutes) to hold my attention.

Alf

May 15th, 2014, 10:27 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_S4C2nQZlSA

Looks brilliant.

I went to see it last night. I don't want to say too much about it. But definitely go see it.

It's incredibly well shot and constructed for a documentary that was filmed over 6 months.

Clive Plasma

May 15th, 2014, 5:13 PM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/5eb5794f4c178017d5669f8778a3e21c/tumblr_n5mizfXggk1tp1soio1_500.jpg

114) Outrage (2010) "Autoreiji" (original title)

The boss of a major crime syndicate orders his lieutenant to bring a rogue gang of drug traffickers in line, a job that gets passed on to his long-suffering subordinate.

7/10 - A grizzly tale of Yakuza violence that ultimately falls short of being brilliant. As hit after hit is placed on one another, you lose track of who is out to get who. Without an emotional undertone to cross these brutalities over into crimes with meaning, the crimes become watered down in an all out war which doesn’t really seem to have an end in sight. It wasn’t a bad movie; it was stylish, well written, well acted (for the most part) and definitely captured the essence of disorder when internal wars begin in gangs - but without that meaning behind it all, it all felt a bit pointless.

Clive Plasma

May 18th, 2014, 7:42 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/fa2c5e8ea909778dec6640ef947c1816/tumblr_n5rpsk6vm91tp1soio1_500.jpg

115) Mr. Peabody & Sherman (2014)

The time-travelling adventures of an advanced canine and his adopted son, as they endeavor to fix a time rift they created.

6/10 - A fast paced adventure spliced with toilet humour, puns, innuendos and historical references that despite trying to be somewhat educational, the younger audiences won’t ‘get’. The animation felt clunky, comparable to watching a video segment on a Playstation 2 game, and the voices although supplied by a great cast really began to grate on me by the end. Plenty to enjoy in this one, but when you compare this to the other Dreamworks pictures of recent years like Megamind and Kung Fu Panda, it falls short of expectation.

Clive Plasma

May 19th, 2014, 2:48 PM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/9739f22349669c6f103d4e34ff3b0bd3/tumblr_n5u3mw9hAa1tp1soio1_500.jpg

116) Upstream Color (2013)

A man and woman are drawn together, entangled in the life cycle of an ageless organism. Identity becomes an illusion as they struggle to assemble the loose fragments of wrecked lives.

9/10 - From the creative mind of Shane Carruth who brought us the excellent Primer, Upstream Colour is another adventure off into hypnotic abstract weirdness. Understandably this film divided opinion, people that don’t like it fall into a category of being “too stupid to understand it” and those that did are accused of being indie-film loving hipsters. It won’t please everyone, but if you wait until the end of the film before making a judgement of “this is shit”, because once the puzzle is pieced together, the film is something oddly incredible.

Alf

May 19th, 2014, 3:00 PM

I saw Frank today and it was bloody ruddy brilliant.

The end has really haunted me.

Clive Plasma

May 20th, 2014, 7:51 PM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/bcb540211e84e7da52925bb63350742c/tumblr_n5wb0jSXAO1tp1soio1_500.jpg

117) Cold Comes The Night (2013)

A struggling motel owner and her daughter are taken hostage by a nearly blind career criminal to be his eyes as he attempts to retrieve his cash package from a crooked cop.

4/10 - Low budget, B-Movie Thriller that despite some solid performances felt bland and tedious. Fans of Breaking Bad hoping to get some sort of a Walter White fix out of Cranstons casting will be left disappointed, as he plays less of the intimidating genius we know and love, and more of a blind, semi-illiterate, Polish man with an accent that’s almost laughable.

https://24.media.tumblr.com/11d88b0fc11de0f458337aa59d99a26e/tumblr_n5wcric3Zh1tp1soio1_500.jpg

118) Crime After Crime (2011)

A documentary film directed by Yoav Potash about the case of Deborah Peagler, an incarcerated victim of domestic violence whose case was taken up by pro bono attorneys through The California Habeas Project.

8/10 - There is something deeply fascinating and yet horribly disturbing about wrongful imprisonment documentaries. Much like the documentaries “West of Memphis” and “The Central Park Five”, we follow the hopeful journey to freedom of the accused, constantly wondering how on earth their conviction was made in the first place. Unlike the two mentioned before, the resulting verdict for women in a similar situation to Deborah, was not all that uncommon which makes Deborahs case even more frustrating to watch when the facts are as clear as they are. The documentary, although substandard in it’s presentation style, did manage to convey the story as balanced as possible. However, it is understandably hard to present both sides, when one side doesn’t want to speak to you, wants to keep a woman in prison for defending herself and the evidence gathered clearly undermines anything they would say in their defense. This documentary, much like many others in the same vein, is much more than a political statement or an awareness for a campaign, it is a straight-forward, anger-inducing, personal tale spanning too many years.

Above all else, it is an important story that needed to be told. Highly recommended.

Mik

May 21st, 2014, 5:06 AM

I saw Frank today and it was bloody ruddy brilliant.

The end has really haunted me.

What you posting about it in here for then you dork?

Alf

May 21st, 2014, 5:27 AM

McBain

May 21st, 2014, 5:28 AM

McBain

May 22nd, 2014, 11:18 AM

https://24.media.tumblr.com/8c0b9ba29b278f3dcb00e56613cc0e99/tumblr_n5gz2yO1Sq1tp1soio1_500.jpg

107) Enemy (2014)

A man seeks out his exact look-alike after spotting him in a movie.

9/10 - Based on José Saramago’s 2002 novel “The Double”, we see the pairing of Denis Villeneuve and Jake Gyllenhaal shot before, but released after, their highly successful film “Prisoners”. It’s difficult to describe this film without giving too much away, and one of the great things about this film is that it leaves it entirely open to your own interpretation, as there have been no comments made from Villeneuve as to what the ending means.

It is dark and odd, shot in this musky yellow hue and while you sit there trying to figure out what is happening, the clues as to what is going on can pass you by. Multiple watches of this could be required, and no doubt as soon as you find the answer to one question, another question will appear.

Gyllenhaal is fantastic, the story is intriguing and the score is tweaky and unsettling. The final image is horrible. Highly recommended and one of the most interesting films I’ve watched on this challenge.

My interpretation and spoilers below;

My interpretation of it is that Gyllenhaal's character(s) are the same person. The spiders represent the web of lies he has made, and he is genuinely that delusional that he believes he has an identical 'body double'. There are some really clever moments pointing to the ongoing theme of this 'web', such as the smash on the car screen or the wires overhead, but above all else he is man repressed by repetition, and has a web of lies so deep that even he has managed convince himself of his doubles existence.

Holy shit just watched this. Gripping stuff.

Clive Plasma

May 23rd, 2014, 5:11 AM

Holy shit just watched this. Gripping stuff.

What's your interpretation of it?

McBain

May 23rd, 2014, 5:38 AM

Same as yours.

And that the scenes aren't in order.

Canuck

May 23rd, 2014, 8:24 AM

I'd take your explanation, but there's a few things that kind of don't fit...

Why would the girl notice the ring mark?

The wife's reaction to seeing the professor is a bit weird. The fact that she kept her distance and genuinely looked intrigued sort of hints that she doesn't think it's her husband. Then her crying and telling him he knows what's going on sort of fits though, so i'm not sure what I think of that.

This is a film that could do with it's own thread if it's getting a bit of interest on here.

Seanny One Ball

May 31st, 2014, 2:31 PM

Clive Plasma

June 5th, 2014, 3:57 AM

Clive Plasma

June 10th, 2014, 6:13 PM

I’ll keep these brief as I don’t have the time to go through the backlog. Here’s what I’ve watched while I didn’t have the internet.

119) L’appartement (1996)

With a plot more tangled than a spider’s broken web, this French drama follows the romantic obsession of Max (Vincent Cassel), a young corporate hotshot who leaves his successful new world behind to search for his elusive lost love Lisa (Monica Bellucci).

8/10 - Clever French film, almost a sort of romantic thriller. Plenty of twists. Very enjoyable.

120) The Double (2013)

A clerk in a government agency finds his unenviable life takes a turn for the horrific with the arrival of a new co-worker who is both his exact physical double and his opposite - confident, charismatic and seductive with women. 9/10 - Brilliant piece of film, and despite all the ridiculous interpretations, it really isn’t that difficult to follow. Eerie and unsettling, less funny than expected, but above all it was a surreal trip and loved it.

121) Wrong Cops (2013)

A group of bad cops look to dispose of a body that one of them accidentally shot.

4/10 - I like the weird world of Quentin Depieux, but Wrong Cops just didn’t do it for me.

122) Cyrus (2010)

A divorced guy meets the woman of his dreams. Then he meets her son.

7/10 - Standard, funny yet predictable Duplass film, but elevated with a great cast.

123) Ballast (2008)

A drama set in the Mississippi delta, where one man’s suicide affects three people’s lives. 7/10

Minimalist and subdued, this gritty indie film is not going to please everyone. I liked it, just clearly not as much as the critics did.

124) The Hunt (2013)

A teacher lives a lonely life, all the while struggling over his son’s custody. His life slowly gets better as he finds love and receives good news from his son, but his new luck is about to be brutally shattered by an innocent little lie.

9/10 - Absolutely brilliant film. Cannot recommend this enough. It is no wonder that Mads Mikkelsen won Best Actor at Cannes in 2012 for his portrayal of the teacher. A truly emotive performance and one that will stick with me for a while.

125) Mission to Lars (2012)

Kate and Will Spicer’s brother, Tom, has Fragile X Syndrome, the most common form of inherited learning disability. He is also a massive fan of Lars Ulrich from Metallica. They made a promise to Tom that they would get him to meet Lars. Tom’s dream is their promise. Together they went on a Mission to Lars.

7/10 - A worthwhile documentary, and a good insight into the challenges a family can face when someone has Fragile X Syndrome, or a similar condition.

MikeHunt

June 10th, 2014, 6:16 PM

Clive Plasma

June 20th, 2014, 10:08 AM

https://38.media.tumblr.com/453233817b211be95106417543ade47a/tumblr_n7h0kgIdvG1tp1soio1_500.jpg

126) Hellion (2014)

When motocross and heavy metal obsessed thirteen-year-old Jacob’s increasing delinquent behavior forces CPS to place his little brother, Wes, with his aunt, Jacob and his emotionally absent father, Hollis, must finally take responsibility for their actions and for each other in order to bring Wes home.

7/10 - A slow burning, generic indie film starring Aaron Paul. Pretty much sums it up. I liked it, it has a real sense of unease to it, but it did seem a tad predictable.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/a47bb9379db8ac77db6682cfdbd616b8/tumblr_n7h11kksqU1tp1soio1_500.jpg

127) Dredd (2012)

In a violent, futuristic city where the police have the authority to act as judge, jury and executioner, a cop teams with a trainee to take down a gang that deals the reality-altering drug, SLO-MO

8/10 - A ridiculously violent action movie - splattered brains and slow motion bullets through faces. Everything that I expected from the film and more. Not sure if I’d re-watch it in 3D, there were some good moments that perhaps could have benefited from it but overall the 2D was gruesome enough.

Mik

June 21st, 2014, 7:55 AM

Pete Cash

June 23rd, 2014, 1:22 AM

Yeah it's pretty awesome. It's one of the best action films I've seen in ages.

I'm stealing this idea Clive. I'm not going to post about it but I've fallen out of touch with culture a bit because I've got such a short attention span now days. I'm starting small with fairly short movies and books I can knock over fairly quickly

Clive Plasma

June 23rd, 2014, 3:40 AM

Awesome. Keep a list at least, send us any recommendations of films you like.

I've worked out that if I watch 2 films a day on 120 separate occasions over the remainder of the year, I'll be OK for this challenge.

I watched 4 more films last night, so I'll post them up in a bit.

VHS

June 23rd, 2014, 12:17 PM

Clive Plasma

June 23rd, 2014, 4:44 PM

https://38.media.tumblr.com/6387de0ed40045b2f56ae52523434415/tumblr_n7h37v29Xe1tp1soio1_500.jpg

128) The Great Gatsby (2013)

A Midwestern war veteran finds himself drawn to the past and lifestyle of his millionaire neighbor.

6/10 - Good film, but I wasn’t a fan of the soundtrack. I don’t want to hear horrible Brostep and modern music over 1920’s America. I know that there was a point to it, as Wikipedia points out, “Baz uses the movie’s music not as a background, but instead prominently in the foreground, which takes on a character of its own”, but I didn’t think it went at all. After the first 25 minutes had passed, and the modern music subsided, it was a lot more tolerable. Di Caprio was brilliant as per usual, but the whole film could have done with being toned down a little. It felt rushed, and over the top, and therefore difficult to fully enjoy.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/9723b777956fbf29a6ae1746e84881c5/tumblr_n7n1o6xFL21tp1soio1_500.jpg

129) Non-Stop (2014)

An air marshal springs into action during a transatlantic flight after receiving a series of text messages that put his fellow passengers at risk unless the airline transfers $150 million into an off-shore account

5/10 - Standard Liam Neeson - something goes wrong, he’s suspected of doing the wrong, manages to annoy everyone in the process. The big twist made no sense, and the overall plot was poor. Unlike Taken where there is enough action to keep you hooked, this taking place in a plane is anything but that, with the major events consisting of a smoke in the toilet and people foaming at the mouth. It was watchable, but average,

https://31.media.tumblr.com/ddbb3c2acc7fd5523e56e4b8e47dbf9e/tumblr_n7n25rO40l1tp1soio1_500.jpg

130) 3 Days To Kill (2014)

A dying CIA agent trying to reconnect with his estranged daughter is offered an experimental drug that could save his life in exchange for one last assignment.

4/10 - A poor mans Taken, only the girl never gets taken. It’s an action movie with family values, which is far too long but somehow funny in places. It doesn’t know whether it’s coming or going. If you’re looking for a daft film to watch to waste time, then this is the one for you. Minimal attention required, and it has Amber Heard… which is always a bonus.

https://38.media.tumblr.com/5e49f9df5bee3ca00d48413d11daed6e/tumblr_n7n2h6562z1tp1soio1_500.jpg

131) The Raid 2 (2014)

Only a short time after the first raid, Rama goes undercover with the thugs of Jakarta and plans to bring down the syndicate and uncover the corruption within his police force.

10/10 - Easily one of the most exciting movies I have ever watched. It had all the violence and jaw dropping choreography of the first movie and then some, combined with the storyline reminiscent of a Japanese Yakuza film much like the work of Takeshi Kitano. It is rare you get such an improvement from a sequel, and what the first one lacked in terms of dialogue and substance, this one over-delivered. It’s only the third film I’ve given a 10/10 review on during this challenge, and fully deserving of it. Absolutely incredible viewing.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/25f0065e9aabf8a1b8c1fe6e9d2bef02/tumblr_n7n2taxxUp1tp1soio1_500.jpg

132) Ping Pong Summer (2014)

A family vacation during the summer of 1985 changes everything for a teenage boy obsessed with ping pong.

5/10 - Good, not great. The jokes misfire, and the entire parody of a 1980’s underdog story was parodied much better by South Park and their ‘Asspen' episode. It's hard to drop the comparison if you've seen that episode, because South Park covers more in their 20 minutes than this film does in 90. If you’re looking for nostalgia, or enjoy watching awkward teenage angst play out in a neon landscape to 80’s electro, then this one is for you.

Mik

June 23rd, 2014, 5:28 PM

Donald

June 23rd, 2014, 5:31 PM

Clive Plasma

June 23rd, 2014, 5:46 PM

The Raid 2 would never get a full rating from me because it is obscenely long. Could've comfortably chopped 20 minutes off, despite it still being great nevertheless.

That thought did cross my mind, but much like the criticisms aimed at Wolf of Wall Street for its length, I don't see it as a bad thing if I'm enjoying it. Happily could have watched more of it if it were longer.

I thought 3 Days To Kill was excellent, but then again I went into it knowing absolutely nothing about it other than Kevin Costner starred in it. I think that made the movie much more enjoyable than if I had known about the plot. Solid 7/10 from me.

It was excellent and got a 7/10? I don't rate Kevin Costner tbh, and thought the plot was so weak and I knew nothing about it going into it. Typical for its genre, playing the standard old man beating up young people gimmick to death.

Clive Plasma

June 26th, 2014, 10:54 AM

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133) Rob The Mob (2014)

A Queens couple who specialize in robbing mafia social clubs stumble upon a score bigger than they could ever imagine, becoming targets of both the mob and the FBI in the process.

7/10 - A sort of half way point between a mafia caper and romantic drama, with a underlying comedic element that provides enough of a fresh perspective on the mafia genre to keep you entertained. Good film.

Clive Plasma

June 27th, 2014, 8:15 AM

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134) The Pretty One (2014)

A tragedy presents Laurel with the chance to reinvent herself as her idolized twin sister, Audrey. As she eases into the life she has always wanted, she must decide between continuing the lie or revealing herself as the perfect fraud.

5/10 - A tolerable non-traditional romcom, albeit with a slightly creepy premise. It teeters between quirky, mumbly humour and attempted emotional sympathy, but as a result never really finds it’s footing. Jake Johnson plays a very similar role to his one in Drinking Buddies; that effortlessly nice, does no harm, bearded ‘dude’. Zoe Kazan is not too shabby either as the odd, cliched and awkward twin. Worth a watch, but don’t expect too much.

Clive Plasma

July 15th, 2014, 6:07 AM

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135) Sin City (2005)

A film that explores the dark and miserable town, Basin City, and tells the story of three different people, all caught up in violent corruption.

6/10 - Visually incredible, like nothing I have seen before. But overall I found it lacked any substance. It didn’t seem to click with me, and for all it’s artistic merit, it felt like it relied on that too much and as a result the stories suffered. Mickey Rourke and Clive Owens parts were easily the highlights of the film, but other than that it was a bit of a disappointment for a film that received so much hype.

https://38.media.tumblr.com/61998090181f49b400378c558a8262f0/tumblr_n8qyo4e0D81tp1soio1_500.jpg

136) The House I Live In (2012)

From the dealer to the narcotics officer, the inmate to the federal judge, a penetrating look inside America’s criminal justice system, revealing the profound human rights implications of U.S. drug policy.

9/10 - There’s something strangely interesting about the American Legal system. Whether it’s wrongful imprisonment, mandatory minimum sentences, baffling oversights of vital evidence, corruption or drug policy - it’s just fantastic viewing when presented right, and a huge shame that in reality the US is no closer to sorting any of this out even with the legalisation of weed. Compelling, highly detailed documentary. This ticks all the boxes.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/825a4402f7fe374f64beda868e8fa2a0/tumblr_n8qz76Nj0H1tp1soio1_500.jpg

137) The Short Game (2013)

The Short Game follows the lives of eight of the best 7-year old golfers in the world as they train for and compete in the World Championships of Junior Golf.

7/10 - A very fun documentary that plays out more like a movie. You don't need to like golf to like this film, but whether or not you can stand kids will dictate whether you like this film or not. Some kids appear humble, some kids appear snobby, some parents are as forceful and emotive as you would expect, but above all else they all genuinely love golf and that's the main thing. It made it exciting to watch as you didn't find yourself feeling sorry for the kids - they put themselves in the competition through choice and accepted whatever came with it, for the love of the game. Very well put together and worth a watch.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/25cec8c37179015ad9f90f74fd0d8d3d/tumblr_n8qzxnYMIF1tp1soio1_500.jpg

138) Premature (2014)

A high school senior has to re-live losing his virginity over and over again until he gets it right.

6/10 - A silly, crude, and slightly funny comedy where jizz triggered time travel results in an awkward and predictable storyline. Like a tolerable American Pie. Worth a watch if you're looking for something easy to watch. It has it's moments but never really hits home.

Beer-Belly

July 16th, 2014, 1:38 AM

VHS

July 16th, 2014, 2:23 AM

Clive Plasma

July 16th, 2014, 3:54 AM

The House I Live In should be required viewing for every American. The war on drugs is an atrocious waste of life and money.

Some of the statistics are absolutely insane. 5% of the worlds population, but 25% of the worlds prisoners? Over a trillion dollars spent on the war on drugs, and yet they're better, purer and more accessible than ever before? The insight of David Simon (The Wire) was excellent too.

Clive! I highly recommend the German film "The Robber". I think you'll really dig it.

Nice one. Will check it out for sure. There's some cheap copies on Amazon.

Seanny One Ball

July 16th, 2014, 1:35 PM

Clive Plasma

July 16th, 2014, 4:37 PM

I have to disagree with your rating on Sin City mate, Sin City is a solid 8/10 film.
In fact the first time I saw it I'd probably have rated it a 10 just for Alexis Bledel's ass.

Each to their own mate. It's called having an opinion! It just didn't float my boat. I just expected more from it, and at the same time it wasn't at all what I expected...

https://33.media.tumblr.com/3800633bd003f0261faee4c0f441220c/tumblr_n8tnu4ykD41tp1soio1_500.jpg

139) L’Immortelle (1963)

A sad man meets a beautiful, secretive woman who may or may not be involved in some conspiracy ring dealing in kidnapped women used as prostitutes.

7/10 - This film is strange. It creates a dreamlike state, as the camera pans about slowly, and those on screen appear intermittently, together they distort the narrative to a point of near confusion. It’s not an easy watch. On a basic level, the film is about lust. Chasing after the female throughout, wanting what you want at all costs, but the acting is so deliberately and frustratingly rigid, the application required from the viewer to watch this film is significant compared to a ‘normal’ film.

The film is an interesting exploration and a welcome introduction to Alain Robbe-Grillet’s early work, a valuable piece of cinema and worth a watch if you’re into that Avant-Garde/Art-House type of film.

Clive Plasma

July 17th, 2014, 3:44 AM

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140) The Angriest Man in Brooklyn (2014)

A curmudgeonly man is mistakenly told that he has 90 minutes to live by his doctor and promptly sets out to reconcile with his wife, brother and friends in the short time he believes he has left.

2/10 - A good cast, wasted in standard clichéd roles, where the highlight of the film is Mila Kunis being f*cked by Louis CK. Every scene is awkward, and the entire film lacks any form of momentum. It had some moments, but most of those moments were ruined by forced yelling and screaming, I really struggle to find anything positive to say about this film.

Clive Plasma

July 20th, 2014, 6:24 PM

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141) Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002)

A recently laid off factory worker kidnaps his former boss’ daughter, hoping to use the ransom money to pay for his sister’s kidney transplant.

8/10 - Difficult to believe that I’ve only just got around to watching the first of the Vengeance trilogy by Chan-wook Park, especially considering how highly I rate Oldboy. Although no link to Oldboy other than the theme itself, at times you do notice certain similarities; the style, the violence, the twists and the turns it takes, the near perfect acting, the concept. So much to like about it, but it does go a bit overboard at times. The gore isn’t the issue, there’s hardly any of it by Korean standards, but it just comes off a little cheap and lacked that subtlety that Oldboy has.

https://38.media.tumblr.com/1b63c842c3ffad575f774adb9477355a/tumblr_n9177nPAem1tp1soio1_500.jpg

142) Noah (2014)

A man is chosen by his world’s creator to undertake a momentous mission before an apocalyptic flood cleanses the world.

6/10 - This was not at all what I expected. It was so far removed from the bible version. I didn’t expect to see Ray Winstone in it. It was pretty bleak and troubled in places, I expected a watered down affair of inspirational bullshit. The visual effects of the animals wasn’t as realistic as what I thought it would be either, but some of the dream sequences and storyboard moments when Noah delivers various monologues, were really very good. I wouldn’t be in a hurry to recommend it, but at the same time I didn’t think it was a bad film.

https://33.media.tumblr.com/bd93d10d7eee63bf6425e1c933e0a162/tumblr_n917flwwLf1tp1soio1_500.jpg

143) Brooklyn’s Finest (2009)

Three unconnected Brooklyn cops wind up at the same deadly location after enduring vastly different career paths.

6/10 - Standard cop drama from the guy that brought us Training Day. Good performances from all 3 main actors, but the storyline was just too predictable. And at 2 hours long, it was a bit of a slog.

Clive Plasma

July 22nd, 2014, 4:09 PM

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144) Muppets Most Wanted (2014)

While on a grand world tour, The Muppets find themselves wrapped into an European jewel-heist caper headed by a Kermit the Frog look-alike and his dastardly sidekick.

7/10 - What a pleasant surprise. Tina Fey, Ty Burrell, Ricky Gervais and The Muppets. Way better than the last one they did, much more humour for adults, less musical numbers and just a really entertaining film throughout.

Seanny One Ball

July 22nd, 2014, 6:34 PM

I am all about the opinions that is why I said "disagree" not "you're wrong" ;)

Also you have put a tiny spoiler (or is it an enticer for some folk?) in your Angriest Man In Brooklyn review.

Clive Plasma

July 22nd, 2014, 6:53 PM

I am all about the opinions that is why I said "disagree" not "you're wrong" ;)

Also you have put a tiny spoiler (or is it an enticer for some folk?) in your Angriest Man In Brooklyn review.

It's not a spoiler really. Louie is in it for all of 10 seconds. Just... don't watch it. It's not very good.

Seanny One Ball

July 22nd, 2014, 7:05 PM

Aye I've seen better spoilers in trailers. Usually comedy ones.

Seen "Killer Joe" Clive?

Clive Plasma

July 22nd, 2014, 7:22 PM

That the one where he facefucks the girl with the chicken drumstick?

Such a good film.

Donald

July 22nd, 2014, 7:32 PM

Seanny One Ball

July 22nd, 2014, 8:00 PM

Beer-Belly

July 22nd, 2014, 8:40 PM

Killer Joe is great.

Speaking of William Friedkin, I picked up the recently remastered Sorcerer on Blu-ray and really enjoyed it. The tension is off the charts at times.

Clive Plasma

July 23rd, 2014, 4:07 AM

Speaking of William Friedkin, I picked up the recently remastered Sorcerer on Blu-ray and really enjoyed it. The tension is off the charts at times.

I've been meaning to watch that for a while.

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145) Lovelace (2013)

The story of Linda Lovelace, who is used and abused by the porn industry at the behest of her coercive husband, before taking control of her life.

5/10 - Another middle of the road film for me. Just seem to be picking 'alright' ones to watch. While this was a story that needed to be told, it seemed to lack any real emotion until right at the end of the film. For a film that was supposed to be about domestic abuse and the horrible innards of the porn industry in relation to Linda Boremans 'career', it did very little to explore her actual emotional hell. It just didn't have the edge that it needed to really attack the true story, and because it just floated from scene to scene casually it almost seemed that the filmmakers were being nonchalant about the entire thing. Which is exactly the opposite effect you should feel when watching this.

Good acting, very average film.

Clive Plasma

July 24th, 2014, 5:03 AM

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146) A Hiacking (2012) "Kapringen" (original title)
The crew of a Danish cargo ship is hijacked by Somali pirates who proceed to engage in escalating negotiations with authorities in Copenhagen.

9/10 - Firstly, subtitle-phobes, don’t be put off by it being in Danish, because about 75% of the film is actually in English. Secondly, this is nothing like Captain Phillips. It’s not better or worse, it’s just completely different. This is a meticulous, tense and gripping exercise in suspenseful film-making deeply rooted in realism, not sensationalism. It’s a subdued film, that not only exposes you to the claustrophobic atmosphere of the hostage situation, but also follows the tactful negotiations with the CEO of the shipping company. It’s a drawn out, emotionally draining and bleak thriller. Highly recommended.

Seanny One Ball

July 24th, 2014, 8:13 AM

Mik

July 25th, 2014, 2:31 PM

Seanny One Ball

July 25th, 2014, 2:44 PM

VHS

July 25th, 2014, 2:58 PM

Blue Ruin.

Man living in his car finds out the man that murdered his parents has been released from prison. All I'm going to say. Highly recommend. :yes:

Mik

July 25th, 2014, 3:35 PM

Clive Plasma

July 28th, 2014, 6:52 AM

Blue Ruin.

Man living in his car finds out the man that murdered his parents has been released from prison. All I'm going to say. Highly recommend. :yes:

Yep. That was my 99th film this year, saw it at Sundance. Great film.

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147) How To Be A Man (2014)

When former comedian Mark McCarthy is faced with a rare form of cancer, he hires a young, impressionable cameraman to document his crude and comical lessons on what it means to be a man for his unborn son.

6/10 - Worth a watch if you like Gavin McInnes and his brash, controversial and unfiltered brand of comedy. The loud implosion of the main character is similar to that of the It’s Always Sunny guys, as he clings on to this loose reason to try and justify the absurdity he has conjured up, with little or no regard for the repercussions or ‘collateral damage’. It’s easy to be offended by this though, but everything is offensive to someone nowadays, however this film has a higher chance of doing it than most. There will be cries of ‘misogyny’ and how it’s nothing more than fart jokes and objectification, but it if you don’t take it too seriously you can have a lot of fun with this movie.

Available on Netflix now.

Clive Plasma

July 28th, 2014, 9:26 AM

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148) The Battered Bastards of Baseball (2014)

A documentary on the legendary Portland Mavericks, an independent baseball team founded by actor Bing Russell that rocked the minor leagues in the 1970s.

7/10 - Very solid underdog documentary from Netflix here, and you don’t even have to like Baseball to enjoy it. There’s something very entertaining about a bunch of beer swilling, unkempt baseball players who end up sticking it to the big leagues, not to mention that camaraderie and community feel that was instilled in Portland as a result. So many stories make up this much bigger story, but bottom line is, they just wanted to play Baseball, and it’s incredible how much came out of this little venture.

Simon

July 28th, 2014, 9:53 AM

Clive Plasma

July 28th, 2014, 10:31 AM

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149) Ajami (2009)

Ajami is the religiously mixed community of Muslims and Christians in Tel Aviv. These are five stories about the everyday life in Ajami.

9/10 - Incredible film, that was not only well acted but impeccably directed. It feels so authentic and raw, a similar feel to the way City of God or Gomorrah was executed. The plot was intricate but not confusing, a few ‘Crash’-like overlaps between chapters, as the timeline jumps about between past and present, but nothing that felt out of place. Overall, it was a powerful film that addresses personal problems as part of a much larger problem, and is probably quite timely given what’s going on in the ‘real world’; certainly anyone with a hint of an interest with what is happening in Gaza should consider this as essential viewing.

Clive Plasma

July 29th, 2014, 4:19 AM

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150) The Motivation (2013)

Eight of the world’s best pro-skateboarders prepare for the upcoming Street League Championship in NYC. Each equally talented, they all must overcome unique challenges - family pressures, injuries, money, fame and their own internal struggles - for a chance to win $200,000 and the title of best street-skateboarder in the world.

7/10 - Another sports documentary recommended to me by Netflix, and it did not disappoint. Showing a detailed look at the lives of the skateboarders and the training each of them endures in order to compete was definitely eye opening, especially with the likes of Ryan Sheckler who I haven’t seen skate for many years. Also, it was good to see Rob Dyrdek outside of ‘Ridiculousness’, which is just a poor mans Tosh.0 - turns out Rob is actually a really good guy, and the amount of money and effort he pours into this competition each year is admirable.

You don’t have to be a fan of Skateboarding to enjoy this, there’s enough outside of it to rope everyone in. Great documentary and they’re making a second one too which is good news. Available on Netflix now.

Seanny One Ball

July 29th, 2014, 5:14 PM

Mik

July 30th, 2014, 4:38 AM

Simon

July 30th, 2014, 10:30 AM

It's true. I've made this observation before, baseball and boxing seem to be the only sports that truly successfully transition into sports regularly. No idea why. Boxing even more so out of the two of them.

I don't know how this translates to rounders but with boxing it might be because a classic boxing match can mirror a film quite well, with clear heroes and villains, a recognisable narrative within the match and, with knockouts, an explosive ending with an unarguable finality about it. It's much more difficult to create a believable Hollywood narrative from team sports where there are so many variables that a clear-cut good and evil narrative would seem over-the-top and ridiculous. Just a theory.

Clive Plasma

August 4th, 2014, 5:45 AM

https://33.media.tumblr.com/c930a52bedcfcc86ffc916a583209648/tumblr_n9rvty2e9z1tp1soio1_500.jpg

151) Warm Bodies (2013)

After a highly unusual zombie saves a still-living girl from an attack, the two form a relationship that sets in motion events that might transform the entire lifeless world.

6/10 - The comedy is infrequent, it's certainly not on par with Shaun of the Dead, the gore is not at the level you come to expect for Zombie movies, and the storyline is fairly weak. Yet, it's a really entertaining film. It's well acted, the soundtrack is great and ending is enough to make up for a lot of it's flaws.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/bd9a6c263e846cacf9a05964017bf3ce/tumblr_n9ry0pUxMS1tp1soio1_500.png

152) Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

Steve Rogers struggles to embrace his role in the modern world and battles a new threat from old history: the Soviet agent known as the Winter Soldier.

8/10 - This is such a slick movie. While it does ultimately end in a mess of CGI, what gets you to that point is an intriguing story-line with some incredibly detailed actions scenes. It is credit to the genre. Whether or not you buy the whole 'timely social commentary' angle, there is something undeniably very real about this film - this is more evident in the first half than the second, but this paranoia infused action movie exceeded my expectations. Also, make sure you watch the two end credit scenes.

https://38.media.tumblr.com/8e6df9237f7b80bfc36a6ddb0a0b9289/tumblr_n9s4cvnViu1tp1soio1_500.jpg

153) Don Jon (2013)

A New Jersey guy dedicated to his family, friends, and church, develops unrealistic expectations from watching porn and works to find happiness and intimacy with his potential true love.

7/10 - An impressive and bold directorial debut from Gordon-Levitt, backed by a great cast (in particular Julianne Moore) who all play off each other brilliantly. Between Johansson, Levitt, Danza and Headly, they each embody their exaggerated satirical characters perfectly, put Moore in as the seemingly normal person and you strike a good if not great balance. But for me the film fell short when it tried to put a heartfelt message in among the shouting, it didn't fall in line with the tone of the film and although well intended, came across as a predictable cop out. I won't spoil the ending for obvious reasons, but for me it was a small blip in what was a thoroughly entertaining film.

Also, updated the front page with links to each of the reviews directly onto the blog:

1. Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72338923393/1-mandela-long-walk-to-freedom-2013-8-10)
2. Prisoners (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72339227992/2-prisoners-2013-9-10-fantastic-film)
3. American Hustle (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72339740031/3-american-hustle-2013-7-10-not-sure-why-its)
4. Fish Tank (2009) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72339996742/4-fish-tank-2009-7-10-gritty-british-drama)
5. Rush (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72340281725/5-rush-2013-9-10-brilliant-film-excellent)
6. Bad Grandpa (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72340565215/6-bad-grandpa-2013-6-10-the-great-thing)
7. Lone Survivor (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72356378684/7-lone-survivor-2013-8-10-intense-war-film)
8. The Secret In Their Eyes (2009) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72382132051/8-the-secret-in-their-eyes-2009-el-secreto-de)
9. The Flu (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72485688816/9-flu-2013-gamgi-original-title-7-10)
10. Dogtooth (2009) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72587832373/10-dogtooth-2009-7-10-strange-eerie)
11. Wake in Fright (1973) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72648005644/11-wake-in-fright-1973-8-10-described-by-my)
12. Buena Vista Social Clu (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72703861988/12-buena-vista-social-club-1999-7-10-a-group)b (1999) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72703861988/12-buena-vista-social-club-1999-7-10-a-group)
13. Sherrybaby (2006) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72715754852/13-sherrybaby-2006-7-10-interesting-and)
14. Red, White & Blue (2010) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72795780847/14-red-white-blue-2010-5-10-someone)
15. The Chaser (2008) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72812104237/15-the-chaser-2008-8-10-a-simple-yet)
16. 12 Years A Slave (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72915320594/16-12-years-a-slave-2013-10-10-absolutely)
17. King of Kong (2007) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72964354222/17-king-of-kong-a-fistful-of-quarters-2008)
18. The Silence (2010) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/72984763984/18-the-silence-2010-das-letzte-schweigen)
19. All Is Lost (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73190742292/19-all-is-lost-2013-8-10-powerful)
20. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73251232217/20-the-wolf-of-wall-street-2013-10-10-find)
21. Romper Stomper (1992) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73345071076/21-romper-stomper-1992-7-10-described-as-the)
22. Captain Phillips (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73497785945/22-captain-phillips-2013-8-10-best-nautical)
23. The Squid and the Whale (2005) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73498092361/23-the-squid-and-the-whale-2005-7-10-an)
24. A Band Called Death (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73755346100/24-a-band-called-death-2012-8-10-interesting)
25. Wrong (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73770483743/25-wrong-2012-6-10-another-weird-film-by)
26. Kenny (2006) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73821351147/26-kenny-2006-7-10-very-funny-australian)
27. Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs 2 (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73837400815/27-cloudy-with-a-chance-of-meatballs-2-2013)
28. There Will Be Blood (2007) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73856355198/28-there-will-be-blood-2007-9-10-fantastic)
29. Iron Man 3 (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73881559205/29-iron-man-3-2013-6-10-it-was-alright-it)
30. Cell 211 (2009) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/73988504886/30-cell-211-2009-celda-211-original-title)
31. Greetings from Tim Buckley (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/74295895797/31-greetings-from-tim-buckley-2012-6-10-this)
32. Half Nelson (2006) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/74539070221/32-half-nelson-2006-8-10-solid-performance)
33. The Man From Nowhere (2010) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/74634163627/33-the-man-from-nowhere-2010-a-quiet-pawnshop)
34. A Place At The Table (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/74749601522/34-a-place-at-the-table-2012-a-documentary)
35. Monster (2003) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/74767869186/35-monster-2003-based-on-the-life-of-aileen)
36. Despicable Me 2 (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/74857494406/36-despicable-me-2-2013-gru-is-recruited-by)
37. Shotgun Stories (2007) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/75521831486/37-shotgun-stories-2007-shotgun-stories-tracks)
38. Enough Said (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/75676336608/38-enough-said-2013-no-plot-synopsis-do-not)
39. Michael (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/75719360475/39-michael-2011-five-months-in-the-life-of-a)
40. Short Term 12 (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76116007223/40-short-term-12-2013-a-20-something)
41. The Untouchables (1987) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76127137172/41-the-untouchables-1987-federal-agent-eliot)
42. Dear Zachary (2008) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76145695991/42-dear-zachary-a-letter-to-a-son-about-his)
43. Gomorrah (2008) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76260570527/43-gomorrah-2008-an-inside-look-at-italys)
44. Skeletons (2010) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76356039905/44-skeletons-2010-two-exorcists-literally)
45. Parkland (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76838342047/45-parkland-2013-a-recounting-of-the-chaotic)
46. Mystery Road (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76841173320/46-mystery-road-2013-an-indigenous-detective)
47. How To Die In Oregon (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76841179408/47-how-to-die-in-oregon-2011-in-1994-oregon)
48. The Avengers (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76841187080/48-the-avengers-2012-nick-fury-of-s-h-i-e-l-d)
49. Balibo (2008) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76841192329/49-balibo-2009-war-correspondent-roger-east)
50. Taxidermia (2007) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/76998084378/50-taxidermia-2007-three-generations-of-men)
51. The Great Buck Howard (2008) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/77112847967/51-the-great-buck-howard-2008-a-young-man)
52. The Armstrong Lie (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/77363956979/52-the-armstrong-lie-2013-a-documentary)
53. Moneyball (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/77463365444/53-moneyball-2011-oakland-as-general-manager)
54. A Better life (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/77464312942/54-a-better-life-2011-a-gardener-in-east-l-a)
55. Homefront (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/77602889492/55-homefront-2013-a-former-dea-agent-moves-his)
56. White House Down (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/77626782340/56-white-house-down-2013-while-on-a-tour-of)
57. Snitch (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/77645639453/57-snitch-2013-a-father-goes-undercover-for)
58. Intacto (2008) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/77791984581/58-intacto-2001-intacto-is-a-2001-spanish)
59. One Hundred Mornings (2009) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/77847646869/59-one-hundred-mornings-2009-set-in-a-world)
60. Coriolanus (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/78324637021/60-coriolanus-2011-a-banished-hero-of-rome)
61. Any Given Sunday (1999) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/78348331977/61-any-given-sunday-1999-a-behind-the-scenes)
62. Stone (2010) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/78431289343/62-stone-2010-a-convicted-arsonist-looks-to)
63. A Bittersweet Life (2005) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/78483219525/63-a-bittersweet-life-2005-things-go-wrong-for)
64. Nymphomaniac - Volume 1 (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/78697066181/64-nymphomaniac-volume-i-2013-a)
65. Nymphomaniac - Volume 2 (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/78697066181/64-nymphomaniac-volume-i-2013-a)
66. Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2004) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/79106420685/66-enron-the-smartest-guys-in-the-room-2004-a)
67. Too Big To Fail (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/79159921185/67-too-big-to-fail-2011-chronicles-the)
68. Craigslist Joe (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/79209703253/68-craigslist-joe-2012-in-a-time-when)
69. Welcome To The Punch (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/79250272683/69-welcome-to-the-punch-2013-ex-criminal-jacob)
70. Revanche (2008) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/79404632064/70-revanche-2008-ex-con-alex-plans-to-flee-to)
71. Son of No One (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/79406087411/71-the-son-of-no-one-2011-a-young-cop-is)
72. Man on Wire (2008) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/79744758604/72-man-on-wire-2008-a-look-at-tightrope-walker)
73. The Beat That My Heart Skipped (2005) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/79863905779/73-the-beat-that-my-heart-skipped-2005-de)
74. The Selfish Giant (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/79964645993/74-the-selfish-giant-2013-a-contemporary-fable)
75. 3 Backyards (2010) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/79965949069/75-3-backyards-2010-the-story-of-three-people)
76. Being Elmo (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/80064596706/76-being-elmo-2011-the-muppet-elmo-is-one-of)
77. Under The Skin (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/80114881501/77-under-the-skin-2014-an-alien-seductress)
78. The Bling Ring (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/80207481581/78-the-bling-ring-2013-inspired-by-actual)
79. Snowpiercer (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/80464191084/79-snowpiercer-2013-in-a-future-where-a-failed)
80. Starred Up (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/80516645832/80-starred-up-2013-a-troubled-and-explosively)
81. Friend (2001) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/80672772506/81-friend-2001-original-title-chin-gu)
82. Silver Linings Playbook (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/81223381319/82-silver-linings-playbook-2013-after-a-stint)
83. Bad Words (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/81224794767/83-bad-words-2014-a-spelling-bee-loser-sets)
84. Hud (1963) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/81522843024/84-hud-1963-hud-is-the-story-of-the-title)
85. Confessions (2010) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/81523951795/85-confessions-2010-original-title-kokuhaku)
86. Rushmore (1998) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/81664189969/86-rushmore-1998-the-king-of-rushmore-prep)
87. Filth (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/81873049928/87-filth-2013-a-bipolar-bigoted-junkie-cop)
88. Forks Over Knives (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/82202080425/88-forks-over-knives-2011-examines-the)
89. Good Night, and Good Luck (2005) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/82368236866/89-good-night-and-good-luck-2005-broadcast)
90. 36th Precinct (2004) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/82369216762/90-36th-precinct-2004-36-quai-des-orfevres)
91. The Informant (2009) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/82782538647/91-the-informant-2009-the-u-s-government)
92. Rust and Bone (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/82783264221/92-rust-and-bone-2012-original-title-de)
93. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/83500465932/93-fantastic-mr-fox-2009-an-urbane-fox-cannot)
94. Love Liza (2002) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/83524162003/94-love-liza-2002-following-the-unexplained)
95. Mistaken for Strangers (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/83603839794/95-mistaken-for-strangers-2014-tom-berninger)
96. The Den (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/83648079371/96-the-den-2014-a-young-woman-studying-the)
97. The Trip To Italy (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/83902394231/97-the-trip-to-italy-2014-two-men-six-meals)
98. They Came Together (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/84306806976/98-they-came-together-2014-they-came-together)
99. Blue Ruin (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/84309361096/99-blue-ruin-2014-a-mysterious-outsiders)
100. Le Donk & Scor-zay-zee (2009) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/84330985996/100-le-donk-scor-zay-zee-2009-rock-roadie)
101. The Lego Movie (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/84918844296/101-the-lego-movie-2014-an-ordinary-lego)
102. Election (2005) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/84919845596/102-election-2005-original-title-hak-se-wui)
103. Deadfall (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/84962690486/103-deadfall-2012-a-thriller-that-follows-two)
104. Columbiana (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/84963517731/104-columbiana-2011-a-young-woman-after)
105. Joe (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/85517994461/105-joe-2014-an-ex-con-who-is-the-unlikeliest)
106. Drinking Buddies (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/85518529741/106-drinking-buddies-2013-luke-and-kate-are)
107. Enemy (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/85534312376/107-enemy-2014-a-man-seeks-out-his-exact)
108. The Queen of Versailles (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/85706862576/108-the-queen-of-versailles-2012-a-documentary)
109. The Summit (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/85707338571/109-the-summit-2012-the-story-of-the-deadliest)
110. Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/85707994156/110-jiro-dreams-of-sushi-2011-a-documentary-on)
111. Bad Ass 2: Bad Asses (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/85813577916/111-bad-ass-2-bad-asses-2014-frank-vega-teams)
112. Monsters University (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/85814181416/112-monsters-university-2013-a-look-at-the)
113. Red 2 (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/85814651926/113-red-2-2013-retired-c-i-a-agent-frank)
114. Outrage (2010) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/85827395901/114-outrage-2010-autoreiji-original-title)
115. Mr. Peabody & Sherman (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/86098532426/115-mr-peabody-sherman-2014-the)
116. Upstream Color (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/86229521671/116-upstream-color-2013-a-man-and-woman-are)
117. Cold Comes The Night (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/86350547911/117-cold-comes-the-night-2013-a-struggling)
118. Crime After Crime (2011) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/86353703426/118-crime-after-crime-2011-a-documentary-film)
119. L’appartement (1996) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/88412506391/ill-keep-these-brief-as-i-dont-have-the-time-to)
120. The Double (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/88412506391/ill-keep-these-brief-as-i-dont-have-the-time-to)
121. Wrong Cops (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/88412506391/ill-keep-these-brief-as-i-dont-have-the-time-to)
122. Cyrus (2010) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/88412506391/ill-keep-these-brief-as-i-dont-have-the-time-to)
123. Ballast (2008) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/88412506391/ill-keep-these-brief-as-i-dont-have-the-time-to)
124. The Hunt (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/88412506391/ill-keep-these-brief-as-i-dont-have-the-time-to)
125. Mission to Lars (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/88412506391/ill-keep-these-brief-as-i-dont-have-the-time-to)
126. Hellion (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/89360315311/126-hellion-2014-when-motocross-and-heavy)
127. Dredd (2012) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/89360922306/127-dredd-2012-in-a-violent-futuristic-city)
128. The Great Gatsby (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/89363973456/128-the-great-gatsby-2013-a-midwestern-war)
129. Non-Stop (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/89684864271/129-non-stop-2014-an-air-marshal-springs-into)
130. 3 Days To Kill (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/89685776451/130-3-days-to-kill-2014-a-dying-cia-agent)
131. The Raid 2 (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/89686391576/131-the-raid-2-2014-only-a-short-time-after)
132. Ping Pong Summer (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/89687040186/132-ping-pong-summer-2014-a-family-vacation)
133. Rob The Mob (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/89964642016/133-rob-the-mob-2014-a-queens-couple-who)
134. The Pretty One (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/90051819916/134-the-pretty-one-2014-a-tragedy-presents)
135. Sin City (2005) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/91141425531/135-sin-city-2005-a-film-that-explores-the)
136. The House I Live In (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/91836022641/136-the-house-i-live-in-2012-from-the-dealer)
137. The Short Game (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/91866162095/137-the-short-game-2013-the-short-game-follows)
138. Premature (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/91872282793/138-premature-2014-a-high-school-senior-has-to)
139. L’Immortelle (1963) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/91978495826/139-limmortelle-1963-a-sad-man-meets-a)
140. The Angriest Man In Brooklyn (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/92032103351/140-the-angriest-man-in-brooklyn-2014-a)
141. Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002 (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/92366537056/141-sympathy-for-mr-vengeance-2002-a-recently))
142. Noah (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/92369008131/142-noah-2014-a-man-is-chosen-by-his-worlds)
143. Brooklyn’s Finest (2009) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/92369411526/143-brooklyns-finest-2009-three-unconnected)
144. Muppets Most Wanted (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/92559428551/144-muppets-most-wanted-2014-while-on-a-grand)
145. Lovelace (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/92616425131/145-lovelace-2013-the-story-of-linda-lovelace)
146. A Hijacking (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/92717151361/146-a-hiacking-2012-kapringen-original)
147. How To Be A Man (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/93102396491/147-how-to-be-a-man-2014-when-former-comedian)
148. The Battered Bastards of Baseball (2014) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/93109419561/148-the-battered-bastards-of-baseball-2014-a)
149. Ajami (2009) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/93113028051/149-ajami-2009-ajami-is-the-religiously-mixed)
150. The Motivation (2013) (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/93195485701/150-the-motivation-2013-eight-of-the-worlds)

Clive Plasma

August 6th, 2014, 5:15 AM

https://33.media.tumblr.com/db072120c390c7465e860ea50ff009a6/tumblr_n9vo3qLHgY1tp1soio1_500.png

154) Locke (2013)

Ivan Locke, a dedicated family man and successful construction manager, receives a phone call on the eve of the biggest challenge of his career that sets in motion a series of events that threaten his careful cultivated existence.

8/10 - Simple, highly effective and very intimate. We are presented with Tom Hardy giving another incredible performance for a solid 90 minutes, trapped in his car, making lots of phone calls to try and sort his life out - and it’s brilliant. Perhaps too minimal for some, and a lot of the outcomes are left for you to decide, but it’s suspenseful and emotional enough to warrant keeping your interest. Highly recommended.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/99f8ee7e600c2e2a319c521e9a1539fe/tumblr_n9vocup8mh1tp1soio1_500.jpg

155) El Bulli: Cooking In Progress (2011)

For six months of the year, renowned Spanish chef Ferran Adrià closes his restaurant El Bulli and works with his culinary team to prepare the menu for the next season. An elegant, detailed study of food as avant-garde art, EL BULLI: COOKING IN PROGRESS is a tasty peek at some of the world’s most innovative and exciting cooking; as Adrià himself puts it, “the more bewilderment, the better!”

2/10 - Boring. Tedious. Loveless. No story. Just weird food and an emotionless chef tasting each dish.

Clive Plasma

August 12th, 2014, 7:30 AM

https://38.media.tumblr.com/d6855901c92e852c1857a3ee1aaa99c6/tumblr_na6tff5J2x1tp1soio1_500.jpg

156) The Man With The Iron Fists (2012)

On the hunt for a fabled treasure of gold, a band of warriors, assassins, and a rogue British soldier descend upon a village in feudal China, where a humble blacksmith looks to defend himself and his fellow villagers

2/10 - A self indulgent film about a man with Iron Fists, who is barely in it, can hardly act and has to fight a weird combination of a metal version of The Thing played by Dave Batista while Russell Crowe fumbles about in a brothel for the most part. I’d have rather watched a film about the man with iron shits. At least that might have been somewhat entertaining.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/763be51884fc443af60c72eb6d5ad3d3/tumblr_na6tpfaqL11tp1soio1_500.jpg

157) Night Catches Us (2010)

In 1976, complex political and emotional forces are set in motion when a young man returns to the race-torn Philadelphia neighborhood where he came of age during the Black Power movement.

7/10 - Not too brash or sensationalised, it comes across as a very serious film about a difficult time in the post-Black Panther era. Strong performances from Kerry Washington and Anthony Mackie carry the film through, alongside an excellent soundtrack by The Roots. Impressive debut by Tanya Hamilton who surprisingly hasn't done anything since.

https://38.media.tumblr.com/c2c2e805fb207b89993760cd03edfce8/tumblr_na6vrifKrd1tp1soio1_500.jpg

158) Primal Fear (1996)

An altar boy is accused of murdering a priest, and the truth is buried several layers deep.

8/10 - Ed Nortons big screen debut is as good as they come. Primal Fear is everything you want from a crime thriller and more as it twists and turns through a thin and predictable plot, but that is neither here nor there as the on screen presence of Norton and Laura Linney (not so much Richard Gere) is what really holds this film together. Norton as we know went on to do Fight Club and American History X shortly after this, which is a testament to his performance here, and the director Gregory Hoblit also making his film debut went on to direct the excellent Fracture (Hopkins & Gosling). If you're a fan of any of the above films, or simply want to see Norton steal the show, then this is definitely worth a watch.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/a346f92171cb5498a8408036b05bb773/tumblr_na6whwOMcn1tp1soio1_500.jpg

159) Restrepo (2010)

A year with one platoon in the deadliest valley in Afghanistan.

8/10 - A very intimate look at a US deployment in one of the most dangerous areas of Afghanistan, but without a narrative it is just that. Although I guess that was point of it, because in reality there really was no narrative to it. No compelling storyline. It was a mess of individual events that were never all that positive. Some of the scenes are harrowing, showing the emotional breakdown of those involved in such a raw way is intensely powerful. It's hell on earth, it's scary and there is no happy ending.

https://33.media.tumblr.com/4bf5c0768cf771d43c78ae429e12f970/tumblr_na6wk56wcA1tp1soio1_500.jpg

160) The Watch (2012)

Four men who form a neighborhood watch group as a way to get out of their day-to-day family routines find themselves defending the Earth from an alien invasion.

5/10 - This was one of those films where you sit back half way through and say, "now who thought this would be a good idea?". On paper, this movie should not have failed, but along with the introduction of aliens the entire film lost it's way. There are a few laughs dotted about, just enough to keep my interest, but it didn't achieve much else.

https://38.media.tumblr.com/9d671d79c211e9a91d27bb45caf374e8/tumblr_na6xfvhU8p1tp1soio1_500.jpg

161) Babel (2006)

Tragedy strikes a married couple on vacation in the Moroccan desert, touching off an interlocking story involving four different families.

8/10 - Director Alejandro González Iñárritu works his magic yet again much in the same vein as Amores Perros (2000) and 21 Grams (2003) in this intricate tale of fate and circumstance. Sure, it is essentially a play by play of his previous work; depressing, bleak, honest, but it is extremely well acted and although people will no doubt compare this style to Crash (2004), it's worth keeping in mind that his two prior works in this theme were created before Crash was made. It's not a competition, but to state that because he has used the same story telling device 3 times that it therefore lacks originality is ridiculous. Highly recommended.

Ringo

August 12th, 2014, 7:34 AM

Restrepo. :yes:

Man With The Iron Fists was so shit I turned it off half way through.

Not the biggest fan of Babel but it's solid. I prefer Perros and Grams.

Clive Plasma

August 12th, 2014, 12:25 PM

Restrepo. :yes:

Man With The Iron Fists was so shit I turned it off half way through.

Not the biggest fan of Babel but it's solid. I prefer Perros and Grams.

I was very tempted to turn it off after 5 minutes, it was dogshit. The only film I have done that with so far is Bourne Legacy, which just made zero sense.

Been busy though, just in the process of typing up my 2 cents on the ones I've watched. Laptop is fucked so reverting to what I have on Netflix, Xbox and DVDs.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/94ae13b1f8b32d80e1c6513d6d42819c/tumblr_na75yhBEZQ1tp1soio1_500.jpg

162) Beasts of the Southern Wild (2012)

Faced with both her hot-tempered father's fading health and melting ice-caps that flood her ramshackle bayou community and unleash ancient aurochs, six-year-old Hushpuppy must learn the ways of courage and love

9/10 - Strange, endearing and simply brilliant. Hard to believe that Quvenzhane Wallis who plays 6 year old Hushpuppy is just that, 6 years old. There is so much screen presence, so much energy, attitude and emotion for such a young actress that it leaves you speechless. Call it a 'coming of age' film, a 'tour de force', whatever other buzz phrases people use to describe this type of film, but you can't deny it's originality and how good this debut film is.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/1d5705a88a69d0781548602bfee4a611/tumblr_na7c3c3HCR1tp1soio1_500.jpg

163) The Wave (2008) "Die Welle" (Original title)

A high school teacher's unusual experiment to demonstrate to his students what life is like under a dictatorship spins horribly out of control when he forms a social unit with a life of its own.

6/10 - I don't think it's as thought provoking as it thinks it is, nor is it as cool or as polished as it wants to be, but it is by no means a bad film. I thought it would be creepier and more sinister than it was, but it wasn't a bad film. There are dubious performances from the cast, the typical 'hippie' girl, the outcast, the goths, the anarchists, all forming your stereotypical group of schoolkids, but despite all of that, it wasn't a bad film.

Typing this out I'm having a hard time explaining why I liked it, I just did, just maybe not as much as I had hoped I would. Intriguing, exciting, yet underwhelming.

Mik

August 12th, 2014, 12:34 PM

Seanny One Ball

August 13th, 2014, 2:38 PM

Ringo

August 13th, 2014, 2:41 PM

El Capitano Gatisto

August 13th, 2014, 3:07 PM

Clive Plasma

August 14th, 2014, 8:09 AM

https://33.media.tumblr.com/3bc2beda095e1ee3e111f7a953ed8f53/tumblr_naaoas6y0Z1tp1soio1_500.png

164) Premium Rush (2012)

In Manhattan, a bike messenger picks up an envelope that attracts the interest of a dirty cop, who pursues the cyclist throughout the city.

5/10 - This is about as exciting as you would expect it to be, but way more fun than I thought it would be. It’s corny, predictable and the plot is very thin, but an easy watch. Literally, a middle of the road movie.

https://33.media.tumblr.com/98f93c7326062a40f0ac442557713ca9/tumblr_naap3qHoDi1tp1soio1_500.jpg

165) Superheroes (2011)

A journey inside the world of real life caped crusaders. From all over America, these self-proclaimed crime fighters, don masks, homemade costumes and elaborate utility belts in an attempt to bring justice to evildoers everywhere.

4/10 - These guys seen as the real life “Kick Ass”, very rarely kick ass. It’s an interesting insight into the minds of these guys, but aside from treating an injury for someones foot, a 2 man candlelight vigil and taking the keys from a drunk driver, they do very little. Easy watch, passed the time, sort of funny, but very average.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/2c4b9cd063e548b48915464c914a4337/tumblr_naapp47dy31tp1soio1_500.jpg

166) The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)

The adventures of Gustave H, a legendary concierge at a famous hotel from the fictional Republic of Zubrowka between the first and second World Wars, and Zero Moustafa, the lobby boy who becomes his most trusted friend.

9/10 - When you watch as many films as I am trying to do in a year, it’s ones like this that truly stand out. A single performance by Ralph Fiennes is so good in this film, that it’s difficult to talk about anything else. Visually, it’s incredible. The typical dry wit you expect from Wes Anderson is there in abundance. It’s well polished, finely composed, superbly acted and the dense script is executed perfectly. I’d go as far as saying it is my favourite Anderson film to date, and whether you’re already a fan of Anderson or not, I highly recommend this film.

Clive Plasma

August 14th, 2014, 9:09 AM

Also worth noting that I haven't forgotten about your recommendations, I'll make an effort to plough through these in the next few weeks where possible;

Kings of Summer (Bert)
The Spectacular Now (Bert)
The Conjuring (Mike Hunt)
Holy Motors (Mike Hunt)
Lilya 4 Ever (ECG)
La Quottro Volte (ECG)
The Loved Ones (Mike Hunt)
Hombre (SOB)
Kind Hearts & Coronets (SOB)
Man Bites Dog (SOB)
Chasing Ghosts (Rogerer)
A Royal Affair (ECG)
The Broken Circle Breakdown (Simon)
A Face in the Crowd (Tainted Eclipse)
Good Vibrations (Ringo)
The Scouting Book For Boys (Simon)
Poetry (SOB)
The Hustler (Mik)
The Sting (Mike)
Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid (Mik)
Frank (Alf)
Bennys Video (SOB)
The Robber (VHS)
Behind The Candleabra (SOB)
Star Trek: Best of Both Worlds (McBain)
The Remains of the Day (DonaldPleasance)

MikeHunt

August 14th, 2014, 9:26 AM

Sancty

August 14th, 2014, 9:58 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/835cc393fbf29ceda64b1056e1140d62/tumblr_n3lxn6jboM1tp1soio1_500.jpg

87) Filth (2013)

A bipolar, bigoted junkie cop manipulates and hallucinates his way through the festive season in a bid to secure promotion and win back his wife and daughter.

4/10 - I really wanted to like this movie, but just didn’t. It started out with a simple enough premise, and had the laughs to go along with it, but somewhere in the middle the laughs stopped. There was nothing. Just bizarre, nonsensical, over-acted, try hard rubbish that made it near impossible to follow.

A caveat to this is that I had been at a beer festival all day, and perhaps watching this film when my ability to interpret pretty much anything is significantly reduced, meant that the score and review I’ve given it could be perceived as harsh. It’s one of those polarising films, and while I was not of entirely sound mind, I was sober enough to know which side I was on. Oh well. Onto the next one.

Thanks,

You saved me 2 hours of my life tonight. Netflix has been pushing this down my throat and I was about to swallow.

MikeHunt

August 14th, 2014, 11:35 AM

Seanny One Ball

August 14th, 2014, 2:45 PM

Mik

August 14th, 2014, 4:09 PM

Clive Plasma

August 18th, 2014, 7:00 AM

https://31.media.tumblr.com/87ae0226390cd45d0f4f3c37e90a015f/tumblr_nahzisfLz71tp1soio2_r1_500.jpg

167) The Expendables 3 (2014)

Barney augments his team with new blood for a personal battle: to take down Conrad Stonebanks, the Expendables co-founder and notorious arms trader who is hell bent on wiping out Barney and every single one of his associates.

5/10 - The first two films were a lot of fun. Lots of jokes and references to films they had done prior to the Expendables, but this one never really got off the ground. Without spoiling too much of it, the film is essentially broken into three parts. The Old Team, The New Team, and then the final scene where all hell breaks loose. The problem here is that I liked the film for the old team, writing them out and spending a large part of the film introducing the new team made the film feel watered down. Also, the watering down doesn’t just stop there. They applied for a lower film rating, so the violence is limited to explosions and punching, rather than the traditional Rambo-styled violence I knew and loved.

The final scene makes up for a lot of it’s flaws, Antonio Banderas single handedly had the films comedy elements nailed down, Kelsey Grammar injected a nice bit of understandable dialogue in-between all the grunting, and it’s still an all guns blazing fight fest that everyone expects. It’s just not as good as the others.

https://33.media.tumblr.com/1c78c28dc2c39a78cb8c327bd616ffdd/tumblr_nai145ybQW1tp1soio1_500.jpg

168) Mother (2009)

A mother desperately searches for the killer that framed her son for a girl's horrific murder.

9/10 - From the writer & director of the increasingly popular 'Snowpiercer (http://film2014.tumblr.com/post/80464191084/79-snowpiercer-2013-in-a-future-where-a-failed)', and the excellent monster movie 'The Host', is this creepy murder mystery thriller 'Mother' by Joon-ho Bong. This film does not fall into the standard Korean revenge template, resorting to an obscene usage of knives or brutal killings, but instead opts for unpredictability, beautiful cinematography and hits a deep emotional level that I haven't come across in South Korean cinema for a long time. It's simple, oddly funny in places but above all else it is captivating viewing. Highly recommended.

https://31.media.tumblr.com/0a1692b632d8b1d4f46380e87aeeef99/tumblr_naifwl2NIj1tp1soio1_500.jpg

169) Neighbors (2014) [Bad Neighbours out of the US]

A couple with a newborn baby face unexpected difficulties after they are forced to live next to a fraternity house.

7/10 - A lot funnier than I expected, and clearly a movie that will polarise opinion. Many people will hate it for it's dick and tit jokes, frat humour, occasional gross out moments and predictability. I didn't hate it or like it for those instances. I liked it for the moments of improvisation, the incessant ramblings of the likable duo of Seth Rogan and Rose Byrne, and just the general immaturity that this film explored.

If you're going to watch this film and get offended by the things I've listed above, I don't know why you would even begin to watch this film. The trailer, the plot, the poster and the cast pretty much explain the type of film you're going to get. If you expected anything else, you're even stupider than this film is.

Clive Plasma

August 19th, 2014, 12:23 PM

https://38.media.tumblr.com/8020d779bbcb4a426825538eedd3508b/tumblr_nakat1uU4i1tp1soio1_500.jpg

170) Ordinary Decent Criminal (2000)

Brilliant, flamboyant master criminal Michael Lynch is more interested in his image and his posterity than the actual profit from his ill-gotten gains.

3/10 - Not very good. Not good at all.

Donald

August 19th, 2014, 12:27 PM

Clive Plasma

August 19th, 2014, 2:12 PM

Kdestiny

August 19th, 2014, 2:20 PM

Just watched Enemy based on your review. Loved it.

Now I am watching Locke, looking forward to it.

Seanny One Ball

August 19th, 2014, 2:37 PM

Shocking seeing a bad Kevin Spacey film.

He's in a few stinkers, happens to the best of them. Look at Hopper and Kingsley