Hitman...definitely a miss in my opinion.
Hitman is the 2007 film adaption by director Xavier Gens of the video game series about agent 47.
Agent 47 is a hitman (as you may have guessed from the title of the film) who finds himself caught up in a political conspiracy.
The main protagonist, played by Timothy Olyphant, is a lone character, befitting really of the role. However, Olyphant's performance doesn't quite make the grade, he does not portray a character that the audience can take to, which is what we usually expect of the leading role.
Whether the problem is his acting technique or the script, Olyphant just doesn't seem right for the role, despite his 'hard man' appearance.
There was at least one intertextual reference to the video games in the film, (there may have been more but, as I'm not a gamer I couldn't have picked up on them) and although there was an attempt at humour with this reference, it was slightly out of place with the serious tone of the film and it finds itself wasted on audience members who are not gamers.
The hitman's 'love interest' (if you can call it that) seemed rather pointless. While it made the hitman seem more human and also tried to add some light entertainment to the film, it just didn't work. Intimate scenes between Agent 47 and Nika felt awkward and the sub-plot they shared didn't seem to move with much pace, leaving it feeling fairly mediocre.
Perhaps what struck me most about the film was the lack of fire and excitement in the action scenes, it lacked 'edge of your seat' action. This could have been compensated for if the film was supposed to be more humorous, but alas that didn't seem to be the intent either.
With such a striking film title, one would expect many more explosions, brutal fights and bloody murders...there just wasn't enough violence to carry such a title.
So, would I recommend this to a friend? definitely not, unless they are an avid fan of the games, and even then, I would imagine they would be disappointed. On a lighter note...at least the film is only and hour and a half long!
Tuesday, 4 December 2007
Friday, 30 November 2007
King Biggins
Congratulations to King of the Jungle and star of I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of here, Christopher Biggins.
He was a late comer to the reality TV programme but, a deserved winner from the moment he stepped into the camp. He has kept the public and the other celebrities entertained from the second he arrived.
His final task, where he fearlessly ate Kangaroo penis, Kangaroo testicles, cockroahces and a number of other beastly jungle fancies, would have undoubtedly won him a huge number of votes.
Well done to the other celebrities for taking on the challenge and to 'J' for coming 3rd and Janice for taking 2nd place.
He was a late comer to the reality TV programme but, a deserved winner from the moment he stepped into the camp. He has kept the public and the other celebrities entertained from the second he arrived.
His final task, where he fearlessly ate Kangaroo penis, Kangaroo testicles, cockroahces and a number of other beastly jungle fancies, would have undoubtedly won him a huge number of votes.
Well done to the other celebrities for taking on the challenge and to 'J' for coming 3rd and Janice for taking 2nd place.
Sleuth
Perhaps one of the most unusual films I have ever seen. I spent the whole time in the cinema wondering if I was actually enjoying the story or whether I wanted to get up and leave.
Sleuth is a strange and interesting film directed by Kenneth Branagh and starring Michael Caine as Andrew Wyke and Jude Law as Milo Tindle. It is a remake of the 1972 film of the same name, also starring Michael Caine (as a different character).
It seems strangely awkward on the big screen with only two characters and very dramatic dialogue and it feels as though it would fit better on the stage, but somehow, bizarrely...it works as a movie.
Michael Caine and Jude Law have great on-screen chemistry, the personalities of their characters bounce off one another perfectly and their absurd banter and twisted game playing is gripping.
The plot is simple yet effective, there are no complicated twists and turns or interlinking story lines. It is purely about the power battle (so to speak) between two slightly unhinged men. As usual, their conflict is centered around a woman's affections.
Sleuth is full of jump cuts, reminding the audience that it is a movie that they are watching and not a stage production. These techniques add to the unnerving atmosphere being created by the characters.
Some of the camera angles used are fresh and innovative. One of the opening shots is a birds eye view as Andrew opens his front door to Milo, all that is visible of Andrew is his hand as he extends it to greet Milo. It is such an unusual shot that it really makes you sit up and take notice.
I wouldn't recommend Sleuth to those of you who are looking to get lost in a conventional Hollywood plot line, but if you're looking for something new and different or if you're interested in film techniques then go and see it now!
Friday, 5 October 2007
Trailer
A slight variant to my usual news-y/gossip posts but....
Everyone has to follow this link and see the new Sweeney Todd trailer!
Sweeney Todd at MovieWeb
The film is directed by Tim Burton and stars Johnny Depp (as Sweeney Todd), Helena Bonham Carter, Alan Rickman and many more.
It is due to be released on 21st December.
The trailer just seems incredible, very Burton-esque and very sinister. It seems that it will be an amazing movie!
I can't wait!!!
Everyone has to follow this link and see the new Sweeney Todd trailer!
Sweeney Todd at MovieWeb
The film is directed by Tim Burton and stars Johnny Depp (as Sweeney Todd), Helena Bonham Carter, Alan Rickman and many more.
It is due to be released on 21st December.
The trailer just seems incredible, very Burton-esque and very sinister. It seems that it will be an amazing movie!
I can't wait!!!
Tuesday, 2 October 2007
I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry
Another side-splitting comedy from Sandler's 'Happy Madison Productions', I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry is fresh, new and hilariously funny.
The film is an interesting tale of two straight fire-fighter friends, Chuck and Larry, who get married to protect Larry's pension benefits because as a single, widowed father of two, he is unable to name his kids as his beneficiaries.
The couple's marriage and civil partnership is challenged by the state as officials start to pry into their private life. This throws up a whole new set of obstacles as they try to prove their 'gayness' with entertaining consequences.
Adam Sandler and Kevin James have excellent on-screen chemistry and they make a strangely believable couple which means that the comedy keeps flowing. The film is definitely not short of laughs.
Sandler re-joins his old friends Allen covert and Steve Buscemi in this movie. I love his continuity in starring alongside these two in many of his films, it allows fans to feel 'in the know' as they recognise these returning faces.
I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry is definitely a film not to be missed. It's a fresh idea and is entertaining from start to finish.
Thursday, 27 September 2007
Wales To Lose Another Steel Works
Cardiff is set to lose it's East Moors steelworks in Splott.
CWL (Carrington Wire Limited) which makes wire products is set to close, competition from abroad is being blamed.
It is thought that 120 jobs will be lost because of the closure.
Efforts are being made to assist the workers who will be left jobless.
For the full story see BBC News Wales.
CWL (Carrington Wire Limited) which makes wire products is set to close, competition from abroad is being blamed.
It is thought that 120 jobs will be lost because of the closure.
Efforts are being made to assist the workers who will be left jobless.
For the full story see BBC News Wales.
David Emanuel and His Dog
Welsh born fashion designer, David Emanuel, who created the late Princess Diana's wedding dress, was spotted in Pets at Home last Saturday with his puppy.
The designer was seen in the Newport Rd store with his new Bichon Frise. He was busy spoiling the pup with treats, toys and essentials.
The visit came as quite a pleasant surprise to customers and staff in the store alike. Perhaps one of the last people you're expecting to see when you're stocking up on dog food and cat litter is a famous designer.
The designer was seen in the Newport Rd store with his new Bichon Frise. He was busy spoiling the pup with treats, toys and essentials.
The visit came as quite a pleasant surprise to customers and staff in the store alike. Perhaps one of the last people you're expecting to see when you're stocking up on dog food and cat litter is a famous designer.
Thursday, 20 September 2007
Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince
The next installment of the Harry Potter movies is currently in filming.
Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince which is set to be released on 21st November 2008 is being directed by David Yates, who was brought in to direct The Order of the Phoenix.
It is rumoured ( see Movieweb ) that Jim Broadbent (The Borrowers, Moulin Rouge, Gangs Of New York) has been cast as new character Horace Slughorn, who is the new potions teacher at Hogwarts.
Daniel Radcliffe has been re-cast as hero Harry Potter. He will be joined by Rupert Grint and Emma Watson who are returning as Ron and Hermione and Tom Felton who will be back as Draco Malfoy.
I'll keep you updated on casting...watch this space...
Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince which is set to be released on 21st November 2008 is being directed by David Yates, who was brought in to direct The Order of the Phoenix.
It is rumoured ( see Movieweb ) that Jim Broadbent (The Borrowers, Moulin Rouge, Gangs Of New York) has been cast as new character Horace Slughorn, who is the new potions teacher at Hogwarts.
Daniel Radcliffe has been re-cast as hero Harry Potter. He will be joined by Rupert Grint and Emma Watson who are returning as Ron and Hermione and Tom Felton who will be back as Draco Malfoy.
I'll keep you updated on casting...watch this space...
Monday, 17 September 2007
Ireland need to pull up their socks
After two Rugby World cup games, it is clear that Ireland are not playing to their strengths.
The Irish team struggled in their 32-17 win against Namibia in their opening game last week. Namibia should have been a 'walk in the park' for Ireland, having never before won a World Cup Game but, it wasn't so easy.
Their match against Georgia on Saturday was no better. Ireland scraped a 14-10 win.
There seems to be none of the Irish fire that I'm used to seeing when they play rugby. Their drives have lost their power and their ball handling seems to have deteriorated.
I'm praying for an Irish World Cup win but, the boys are really going to have to pull their socks up to keep that in their sights. As long as O' Driscoll continues to be fit to play, I have hope, but Ireland really need to start working more as a team.
The Irish team struggled in their 32-17 win against Namibia in their opening game last week. Namibia should have been a 'walk in the park' for Ireland, having never before won a World Cup Game but, it wasn't so easy.
Their match against Georgia on Saturday was no better. Ireland scraped a 14-10 win.
There seems to be none of the Irish fire that I'm used to seeing when they play rugby. Their drives have lost their power and their ball handling seems to have deteriorated.
I'm praying for an Irish World Cup win but, the boys are really going to have to pull their socks up to keep that in their sights. As long as O' Driscoll continues to be fit to play, I have hope, but Ireland really need to start working more as a team.
Friday, 10 August 2007
Celebrity Baby News
Baby spice, Emma Bunton, gave birth to her first child today.
The Spice girl had a baby boy called Beau at Londons private hospital.
Her partner Jade Jones has said that both mother and baby are doing fine.
....................................................................
It was announced yesterday that actress Helena Bonham Carter and Director Tim Burton are expecting their second child later this year.
The couple met while filming for Planet of the Apes and had their first son, Billy, three years ago.
The Spice girl had a baby boy called Beau at Londons private hospital.
Her partner Jade Jones has said that both mother and baby are doing fine.
....................................................................
It was announced yesterday that actress Helena Bonham Carter and Director Tim Burton are expecting their second child later this year.
The couple met while filming for Planet of the Apes and had their first son, Billy, three years ago.
Thursday, 9 August 2007
Dolphin Thought To Be Extinct
I was saddened to see on the news yesterday that a breed of freshwater dolphin is now thought to be extinct.
Yangtze River dolphins, which are only found in China, have been confirmed as the first extinction of a large vertebrae in over 50 years.
Researchers surveying the dolphins natural habitat have failed to gather any evidence of the species survival.
The extinction is being blamed on loss of habitat and human activity in the area.
Something has to be done before many of our other endangered species go the same way.
Baby Boy For Jack White
Congratulations to White Stripes frontman, Jack White, who has today announced the birth of his second child with wife Karen Elson.
The couple have called their new baby boy Henry Lee.
Their first child together, Scarlett Teresa is now 15 months old.
Jack is due to resume his White Stripes tour in early September.
The couple have called their new baby boy Henry Lee.
Their first child together, Scarlett Teresa is now 15 months old.
Jack is due to resume his White Stripes tour in early September.
No Deal For Viewers
The Phone-in operator for Deal or No Deal on Channel four has been fined £30,000.
The game show, which is hosted by Noel Edmonds, asks viewers to phone in to be in with a chance of winning one of three cash prizes. However, the show is pre-recorded so the prize money was already set.
The operator I-Touch have been accused of mis-leading viewers with this phone-in and of therefore leading them to believe that the programme was live.
This new incident follows the many recent accusations and investigations made about television phone-ins and competitions.
Get the full story at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/6938800.stm
The game show, which is hosted by Noel Edmonds, asks viewers to phone in to be in with a chance of winning one of three cash prizes. However, the show is pre-recorded so the prize money was already set.
The operator I-Touch have been accused of mis-leading viewers with this phone-in and of therefore leading them to believe that the programme was live.
This new incident follows the many recent accusations and investigations made about television phone-ins and competitions.
Get the full story at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/6938800.stm
Wednesday, 8 August 2007
Depp joins Sin City?
Rumour has it that Hollywood heart-throb Johnny Depp is signed up for the next installment of Sin City.
The script for Sin City 2 is supposedly complete and a brief plot has been outlined but, the start date for production has not been set.
Sin City 3 is also thought to be in pre-production but, nothing has been confirmed as number 2 is not fully in motion.
Many of the original cast will be back for the next installment and Johnny Depp, who is currently filming for the upcoming Sweeney Todd, is rumoured to be joining them.
Watch this space...
The script for Sin City 2 is supposedly complete and a brief plot has been outlined but, the start date for production has not been set.
Sin City 3 is also thought to be in pre-production but, nothing has been confirmed as number 2 is not fully in motion.
Many of the original cast will be back for the next installment and Johnny Depp, who is currently filming for the upcoming Sweeney Todd, is rumoured to be joining them.
Watch this space...
Monday, 6 August 2007
Evan 'elp us
Evan Almighty, the follow up to Bruce Almighty is a comical modern take on the biblical story of Noah and his Ark.After only being briefly introduced to Steve Carell in Bruce Almighty, his character Evan Baxter falls into the role of the main protagonist really well.
His character is much more likable in this follow up movie as we are introduced to his life.
The film is packed with adorable animal antics and humour as Evan tries to get to grips with the task God has given him. I take my hat off to the animal trainers.
Morgan Freeman returns as The Almighty and he is simply wonderful. He portrays a very lovable and fun character. His laugh is infectious.
The special effects in this film are really something, especially the flood near the end, it is flawless and well-shot.
I would recommend Evan Almighty to all comedy fans, it is definitely a big improvement on Bruce Almighty. A fun film for all of the family.
The film is packed with adorable animal antics and humour as Evan tries to get to grips with the task God has given him. I take my hat off to the animal trainers.
Morgan Freeman returns as The Almighty and he is simply wonderful. He portrays a very lovable and fun character. His laugh is infectious.
The special effects in this film are really something, especially the flood near the end, it is flawless and well-shot.
I would recommend Evan Almighty to all comedy fans, it is definitely a big improvement on Bruce Almighty. A fun film for all of the family.
Friday, 3 August 2007
Transformers
I went to see Transformers the other day, reluctantly I might add.
I walked into the cinema with apprehension, thinking that it really wouldn't be my thing.
Was I wrong? sadly not.
Although the film had a decent plot and some excellent special effects, I just couldn't get away from the fact that I really wasn't the intended demographic.
It seems to be Hollywood grasping at comic book straws once again, which for comic fans and for fans of the original toys, it's great but, for the rest of us...well we don't really get it.
I did enjoy how the 'good' transformers interacted with the main character and with each other and how they were machines with a lot of personality, this did create some humour now and again. I did find the transformations impressive but, overall it's not a film I would rush to buy on DVD.
I felt that it was too long for a Hollywood blockbuster and was majorly aimed at a blokey audience. So blokes, by all means go and enjoy it...but leave the ladies at home...or better still let them go to see Hairspray!
I walked into the cinema with apprehension, thinking that it really wouldn't be my thing.
Was I wrong? sadly not.
Although the film had a decent plot and some excellent special effects, I just couldn't get away from the fact that I really wasn't the intended demographic.
It seems to be Hollywood grasping at comic book straws once again, which for comic fans and for fans of the original toys, it's great but, for the rest of us...well we don't really get it.
I did enjoy how the 'good' transformers interacted with the main character and with each other and how they were machines with a lot of personality, this did create some humour now and again. I did find the transformations impressive but, overall it's not a film I would rush to buy on DVD.
I felt that it was too long for a Hollywood blockbuster and was majorly aimed at a blokey audience. So blokes, by all means go and enjoy it...but leave the ladies at home...or better still let them go to see Hairspray!
Spider Pig
Spider Pig...uh I mean...The Simpsons Movie is the newest adventure for the worlds most beloved family.
After receiving constant publicity and advertising, The Simpsons Movie was finally released in cinemas all over the UK last week. It was much anticipated by fans after following the series for 18 years.
The general idea of the movie is that Homer messes up once again (with fatal consequences) and has to rectify the situation, save Springfield and repair his relationship with his family.
The film is packed with hilarious moments and satire. Spider Pig will undoubtedly be a hit with audience members of all ages.
Grampa's church prediction is hilarious and Homer's piece to camera at the beginning of the film is really clever and witty.
The movie also shows a sensitive side to Bart that we don't usually see in the series as he forms a bond with none other than Flanders.
I would recommend The Simpsons Movie to everyone, definitely one of this summers 'must-See's'
As a final note: 'Spider Pig, Spider Pig, Does whatever a Spider Pig does...' sorry...couldn't resist...
After receiving constant publicity and advertising, The Simpsons Movie was finally released in cinemas all over the UK last week. It was much anticipated by fans after following the series for 18 years.
The general idea of the movie is that Homer messes up once again (with fatal consequences) and has to rectify the situation, save Springfield and repair his relationship with his family.
The film is packed with hilarious moments and satire. Spider Pig will undoubtedly be a hit with audience members of all ages.
Grampa's church prediction is hilarious and Homer's piece to camera at the beginning of the film is really clever and witty.
The movie also shows a sensitive side to Bart that we don't usually see in the series as he forms a bond with none other than Flanders.
I would recommend The Simpsons Movie to everyone, definitely one of this summers 'must-See's'
As a final note: 'Spider Pig, Spider Pig, Does whatever a Spider Pig does...' sorry...couldn't resist...
Disney worker
An electrical maintenance worker for Disney world Florida has been arrested on charges that he had been molesting a young girl for several years.
A spokesperson for Walt Disney said that the man has been given unpaid leave until the outcome of the charges are revealed. It has been confirmed that the alleged mollesting did not occur on Disney property with children staying at the resort.
Full story at http://www.thedisneyblog.com/tdb/2007/08/disneyworld-wor.html
I found this story on my google reader and thought it was interesting (for lack of a better word). It's a shame to see what our world is coming to where even a worker for a family orientated company like Disney has an alleged mollesting history.
A spokesperson for Walt Disney said that the man has been given unpaid leave until the outcome of the charges are revealed. It has been confirmed that the alleged mollesting did not occur on Disney property with children staying at the resort.
Full story at http://www.thedisneyblog.com/tdb/2007/08/disneyworld-wor.html
I found this story on my google reader and thought it was interesting (for lack of a better word). It's a shame to see what our world is coming to where even a worker for a family orientated company like Disney has an alleged mollesting history.
Welcome
Well hello there.
welcome to my blog.
I didn't want to narrow this down too much to one category despite how tempting that might be (*cough* movies *cough*) so instead I'm gonna leave this pretty open so it can appeal to more people.
Hope you like.
Any suggestions welcome.
Thanks muchly
Lianne
x
welcome to my blog.
I didn't want to narrow this down too much to one category despite how tempting that might be (*cough* movies *cough*) so instead I'm gonna leave this pretty open so it can appeal to more people.
Hope you like.
Any suggestions welcome.
Thanks muchly
Lianne
x
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