Green Zone

Released: 12th March 2010
Starring: Matt Damon, Greg Kinnear, Jason Isaacs, Brendan Gleeson
Rating: 4.5/10



Green Zone is a highly political film based on the war in Iraq and the Americans' search for Weapons of Mass Destruction during the turmoil of Saddam Hussein's reign. It's not for everyone! The use of subtitles and military discussions throughout, make paying attention and really focussing key for the audience's understanding of plot.

Lack of a real star-studded main cast means that brightening such dull Middle Eastern scenery and complex topic is not achieved. Also, a slow start doesn't allow for any real excitement within the film and no real 'hook' is used to effectively engage the audience.

However, the real salvation of this film comes, unfortunately, 40minutes from the end as twists and turns are unveiled and new objectives for the protagonist Miller (Damon) become apparent. The political unrest reaches a high as the reasons for division and separation in the American party become known. The line between innocent characters and criminals become blurry as suspects from both nationalities represent each side, confusing the audience and who they should sympathise with. We are unusually positioned against the Americans who are deceitful throughout and unfeeling and reckless with their execution of the task - especially Isaac's character.

SPOILER ALERT!

Interestingly, the main twist, discovered by Damon at the end, is that the Americans manufactured false intelligence to hide the truth that their were no Weapons of Mass Destruction, in order to make a case for war in Iraq and to kill Hussein.

Summary:

- If you are politically intolerant, stay away!

- If the whole army thing really bores you, steer clear!

- The last 40 minutes almost (almost!) make it worth watching...

Snow White and the Huntsman

Released: 30th May 2012
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth, Charlize Theron, Sam Claflin, Ray Winstone
Rating: 7/10



Snow White and the Huntsman originates from the simple and well-known fairytale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. But this adaptation is far from the quaint and fairly light-hearted animated film we're used to. Sanders creates a highly intense film that kept my brow thoroughly furrowed throughout (trying saying that fast!) to accommodate the spectacular stunts and battle scenes in abundance.

Although Kristen Stewart struggles to convey a vast array of emotions and escape from the 'Bella' and Twilight stronghold, she is ultimately very believable as a girl of irrevocable beauty who inspires many to follow her on a quest to avenge her father and kill the Queen, consequently saving the whole ravaged kingdom. Furthermore, it appears Kristen instigates another love triangle that is for once, not a keen focus of the film and isn't actually emphasised or resolved at all.

Charlize Theron is brilliant as a twisted and maniacal Queen, her facial expressions and tone perfect in portraying the utter vanity and desperation of a woman hellbent on devouring the beauty of others (quite literally) in order to quench her ceaseless and conceited thirst for power, consuming entire kingdoms in her greed.

Some of the scenes were significantly reminiscent of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, with hoards of armour-clad men, traipsing through immense and dangerous landscapes in order to defeat the villainous power currently causing their bane. There is also a scene filmed in a frozen forest, where the pure, innocent white snow (as earlier referenced in the film) is host to sinister events, much like the frozen wasteland within Narnia.

Throughout there is some clever filming, where Sanders uses metaphors to convey brutality in a more tasteful way, such as a fallen goblet of wine or ink pot representing the blood thrust out of a body in the impact of a weapon - the contents of each representing blood and evil respectively.

I did find myself however, thinking of wittier comebacks and cleverer retorts at a few points during the film and finding that the comedic attempts were perhaps too obvious in the blatant delivery, therefore not provoking as much laughter as many of the surrounding watchers. 
Another slight criticism would be the accent change. Having seen many Kristen Stewart films, it was really hard to focus on her character and what she was saying due to the stark difference in her voice. I also found Chris Hemsworth to be somewhat inaudible at points, using the other actors' responses as a way to predict what had been said, as he tries to maintain Scottish over a lazy New Zealand accent.

Summary:
- A brilliant twist on the original fairytale
- Star-studded cast makes it more enjoyable and amusing
- Theron's ruthless Queen doesn't disappoint as one of the most terrifying childhood villains
- Do not watch if you are not a fan of one of the main 3 actors, as they are prevalent!

The Hunger Games (Books)

Published: 14th September 2008
Rating: 10/10 (I know!)

Firstly I'll start by saying how enveloping and engrossing these books are, so before you endeavour to tackle them, set aside some time because it is seriously difficult to put them down! As a voracious reader, who has consumed many a book in my 18 years, this is rather a large statement, and nonetheless remains honest and apt.

The Premise:
And ingenious idea for a series of books. The idea of 12-18year olds fatefully chosen to compete in a deadly arena against vicious opponents whilst maintaining standard survival, until 1 remains victorious is indeed abhorrent and shocking. Made worse by the fact the whole thing is annual and televised for the entertainment and viewing of the sadistic residents in the 'Capitol', a state which retains all power over the 12 districts who are forced to relinquish two unlucky 'tributes' in order to pay for an ancestral uprising decades previous. 

The story is told is present tense by Katniss, a girl who volunteers to take her sister's place as tribute in The Hunger Games. Our sympathy and positioning is immediately with Katniss, although she is hostile and resents many things in her life (especially the Capitol) which is understandable. Joined by a boy called Peeta whom she had a vague encounter with in her youth, she learns how she must act to gain favour from sponsors who will effectively help her survive the games.
Even without seeing Liam Hemsworth first as Gale in the film, I find it hard not to love his character, even though he features so little in each book and you are often faced with Peeta's sweet nature and undying love for Katniss. Throughout, I felt a strong sense of destiny and how Gale and Katniss were meant to be together although Peeta, survival and political corruption often rupture the relationship throughout with a tireless facade devised in the first book between the Hunger Games' District 12 tributes.

Second Book 'Catching Fire':

After the somewhat tense ending of the first book, I delved straight into the sequel. The start was initially a little slow and I wondered what twists and advancements on the first book it could have. The political unrest caused by Katniss' victory stunt at the finale of The Hunger Games was a great consequence and cause for continuation into Catching Fire and I found myself becoming very emotionally attached to this series, as the first-person perspective of Katniss manufactures a false sense of you experiencing the events with her. Emotions run high in this middle novel as brutality surfaces out of the arena and Katniss must comply with those she resents in order to suppress the uprisings and save those she loves. Having Katniss reenter the Hunger Games and compete in the more vicious 'Quarter Quell' which is a special games every 25 years usually with a large twist (such as the fiftieth games involved twice as many tributes) was unexpected and a great plot addition, especially as she must fight the previous victors. Even when I'd put the book down, I was thinking about the storyline and the possibilities that could unravel from the current situation I'd 'left' the characters in.

An insight:

Although obviously not the real trailer, as the film is not released until November 2013, this does provide some insight as to the plot line of the second book through some titles and scenes of distress featuring the main characters (although mostly from their other films)

Film vs. Book:
Having seen the film first, it actually increased my interest in the book, as although I knew the chronology and therefore what was going to happen. However, the film is toned down frequently and there are some inevitable alterations which meant that the book added some further background and story points not explored in the film, although not reducing the predictability of the ending obviously. 

A lot of the specific details in the book are significantly missing as scenes are shortened in order to comply with timings. The book is long due to the detail and if the film were to follow it directly, it would've been far too long and tedious. Conversely, having read the book and then rewatched the film, it is far less entertaining as they miss details out that are noticeable, like Katniss injuring Peeta on an urn before the Games and the 'muttation' dogs having significant traits and aspects of the fallen tributes.
Also, as the book is written in first person narrative, I feel that Katniss should have perhaps narrated a bit, to show the audience her perspective, much like Bella in The Twilight Saga. As the film diverts away slightly from this viewpoint, extra scenes are incorporated such as the conversation between Seneca Crane and President Snow following the training ratings, the interactions in the Gamemakers' studio and reactions to certain points in the games from districts and Haymitch, making the film quite different from the book.

The premise of the film is shown well although the brutality of the games is reduced supposedly due to the rating and a need to market the film to a wider age range. Furthermore, the fake romance between Katniss and Peeta is also reduced, as in the book a lot more kissing occurs in order to increase believability to the sponsors and make Peeta obedient.

Jennifer Lawrence plays an excellent Katniss, showing surly attitude and hostility throughout. Meanwhile Josh Hutcherson as Peeta is sweet as necessary, but is a little shorter than the book indicates and his deep brown eyes are not addressed as an issue when in the book the bright blue of them is a key feature of his appearance. Liam Hemsworth provides the real 'heartthrob' with Gale who will definitely be a prominent character in the second and third films due to his large presence in the books.




The futuristic setting of the book also makes the film effects seem a little poor as when reading, imagination conjures the setting and all these new things like the faux fire Cinna creates - which looks really computer generated and therefore compromises the believability. In conjunction with this, the forest fire is really obviously not real and for a film in 2012, shows real lacking compared to things like Inception years ago in which effects can make the audience gasp.



Summary:
- An epic trilogy of books (although I have only just started the Mockingjay)
- Catching Fire is the best novel, and I'm hoping the film will do it justice!
- The best series I've ever read due to the interesting premise and first person narrative which fully engrosses you
- Strong characters and a real sense of villainy from President Snow and the Peacekeepers
- A MUST READ!

Panic Button

Released: 2011 (No date specified)
Starring: Jack Gordon, Elen Rhys, Scarlett Johnson, Michael Jibson
Rating: 6/10

Morally, Panic Button regards the cautions of social networking and the dangers within the personal information shared and the permanence of internet usage. The premise is simple. Four members of a social network (Gwen, Dave, Max and Jo) win an all expenses paid trip to New York on a private jet. As part of the deal, they are provided with 'in-flight entertainment' which soon becomes unnerving as private information of each person's internet history are used against them in cruel quizzes instigated by an interactive alligator. After ignoring the terms and conditions, the foursome indulge in the 'games' with the promise of winning extravagant prizes. However, when the rounds become ever more malevolent, forfeits are introduced, revealing that each member has a hostage loved one who will suffer the consequences of any failed tasks. With these high stakes, the characters slowly turn on each other in a fight for survival.



Panic Button is more of a thriller rather than horror genre, in that throughout, the main feeling installed in the audience is one of creepiness - which is understandable due to the prominence of social networking and how the permanence of internet utilisation can lead to information in the wrong hands. As you are introduced to the alligator, essentially the villain of the film, and the destructive 'entertainment', you are positioned to sympathise with the characters, as cringing at shared secrets seems unavoidable. This film is a lot more of a psychological horror - although not in the same league as Shutter Island, which obviously was created to be twisted and testing. Conversely, as the tensions build to a crescendo, some gore is introduced and the characters become savage in their desperation to save family members. 

The actors are mainly unknown, a common feature of horrors as the lack of 'A-listers' helps aid believability and perhaps increase the realism for the audience and therefore interactivity as the actors seem like 'normal' people and are relatable. The acting is somewhat stereotypical, in that (Jibson) plays a perverted Dave, a gent trying to relive his twenties and is very outgoing and over the top. Having said that, I still found the film engrossing and enjoyed the unusual plot with some twists that maintained the pace.

Summary:
- Worth a watch, a different take on a 'horror' in the sky
- Some unusual ploys and twists that make it fairly interesting
- Strange villain and motivation
- Character Max is weirdly endearing
- Will make you think twice about your internet browsing!

Breaking Dawn Part 2 Hype

Release: 16th November 2012
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Dakota Fanning, Maggie Grace



As a MASSIVE Twilight fan (Twi-Hard), a post regarding the final instalment of this mega film franchise was always a must-do. This finale promises to be an immense ending to the saga and hopefully does justice to the book which was a brilliant read.

This film features around Bella (Stewart) and her adjusting to life as a vampire which it seems comes naturally to her. After the birth of Renesmee, a relative vampire, Irina (Grace), observing the Cullens incorrectly identifies Edward (Pattinson) and Bella's daughter as an immortal child, which in vampire history have caused inexplicable damage and almost revealed their secret to the world. In order to protect and preserve their race, the Voltari seek to destroy Renesmee. After Alice sees this, the Cullens travel across the globe to amass a vampire force that could effectively stop the Voltari and their main weapons Alec (Cameron Bright) and Jane (Fanning) who have extra powers.

Having read the book, and enjoyed the other films in the franchise, I am extremely excited to see the finale, although as with Harry Potter, I am sad that it is ending! 

Highly Anticipated Films - Awaiting Release 2012

Red Dawn

Release: 21st November 2012
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Josh Peck, Josh Hutcherson, Isabel Lucas



The rough synopsis of this film is a group of teenagers are forced to collaborate and train in guerrilla warfare in order to save their town in Washington from a North Korean invasion. Having worked in the Royal Marines, Hemsworth's character Jed, is a likely hero and leader.
Unlikely casting was chosen for this action-packed, underdog war story, in the form of Josh Peck as Hemsworth's younger brother. Best known for playing Josh in Nickleodeon's 'Drake and Josh', it seems strange seeing him take on a serious, high-octane role. Hemsworth and Hutcherson, having played hardcore lead males previously, in Thor and The Hunger Games respectively, are obvious choices and provide some 'eye candy' for the numerous girlfriends who may be unwilling audience members. Furthermore, Isabel Lucas, who plays Peck's love interest Erica, is part of the rag-tag heroes and therefore the audience should root for her. However, (and this may just be me) I remember her as the evil Decepticon in Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen, making it difficult for me to like her thus far.
Regardless of casting, this film looks to be a lower-scale war film, with teenagers as unlikely heroes - The premise and trailer make this a must-see for me!

Taken 2

Release: 5th October 2012
Starring: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen



Looking perhaps as kick-ass as the prequel, Bryan Mills (Neeson) arrives at Istanbul on apparent vacation with daughter Kim (Grace) , who was the victim of the first film in this franchise, and ex-wife Lenore (Janssen). It is quickly discovered that this trip will be no vacation for the Mills family, as Lenore is targeted and kidnapped by the fathers of men killed in Mills' rampage to rescue Kim years ago. Bryan must fight these revenge-fuelled men to once again save his family. In a stunning coming-of-age twist, Kim seems to have become pretty hardcore in this sequel, as she is seen in this trailer jumping across rooftops and indulging in a car chase, just like the old man.
After thoroughly enjoying 'Taken', brimming with action and haunting reality, 'Taken 2' seemingly has not faltered, with Neeson's steely determination and spy skills still dominating Europe. One of the most highly anticipated sequels for me!

The Paperboy

Release: No set release date yet - rumoured 5th October 2012
Starring: Zac Efron, Matthew McConaughey, Nicole Kidman, John Cusack, Macy Gray




This film, based on a 1995 novel of the same name, premiered earlier this year at Cannes Film Festival where it received high praise. The film is about two brothers (Efron and McConaughey) who are journalists for the Miami Times and investigate the murder of a local sheriff in order to free the accused Hillary (Cusack) from death row. Kidman plays Hillary's fiancé Charlotte Bless who approaches the brothers for their help exonerating Van Wetter. This Thriller soon becomes dark and twisted as relationships overlap and tensions run high around the murder case.
As soon as the release date is decided, I will surely be at the cinema to watch what promises to be an excellent and intriguing watch!

The Wedding Singer

Released: 5th June 1998
Starring: Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore, Christine Taylor
Rating: 7/10

Set in the 1980's, this romantic comedy features around a wedding singer named Robbie (Sandler) who falls for an engaged colleague, Julia (Barrymore). Sharing the same feelings, Julia, oblivious to her fiancé's cheating, continues to plan her wedding. Fate must intervene to rectify the situation and comply with true Rom-Com style.


Firstly, Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore as co-stars are comically matched to perfection, as further shown in 50 First Dates - one of my favourite films in this genre! They deliver some brilliant lines throughout with some of the funniest moments being conveyed through sheer expression. Also, cameos from Billy Idol coupled with Sandler's surprising good singing makings this film thoroughly enjoyable for all - especially due to the high quantity of '80s music playing in most scenes - which you can't fault!
My only criticism? That the supremely stupid 'mullet' haircut is prominent.

Summary
- An enjoyable movie for all
- Do not watch if you are not a Sandler fan - his classic humour is involved in abundance!
- '80s music throughout can never be wrong 

The Five-Year Engagement

Released: 22nd June 2012
Starring: Jason Segal, Emily Blunt
Rating: 5/10

Segal and Blunt make a cute comic pairing in a film about an engaged couple who struggle to exchange nuptials when Violet (Blunt) moves the duo to Michigan to accept a job at the University, causing fiancé Tom (Segal) to terminate his beloved sous-chef employment and preemptively ruining his largest career opportunity in San Francisco.

Whilst starting with hilarity and the heart-warming backstory of the couple, the film becomes strained in the middle - reflecting the tensions of the characters as Tom endures unhappiness whilst Violet thrives. The humour gains a slapstick quality and perhaps more awkward laughter points. An unnecessarily lengthy film, the problems should have been addressed and resolved earlier so as to avoid the audience suffering the numerous and frustrating lapses in judgement occurring throughout. 

However, Segal and Blunt make a believable couple and play the roles to perfection - demonstrating all aspects of relationships realistically (lack of communication, sacrifice, moments of fun and passion). Tom's best friend Alex (Chris Pratt) and Violet's sister (Alison Brie) further enhance the light-hearted aspects of the film, injecting humour into scenes that required an uplift. Also, the ending of the film somewhat redeems the tedious aspects and left me feeling decidedly good about the movie overall.

Summary: 
- A standard Romantic Comedy
- Some laughs and feel-good moments 
- Not as good as others in this genre
- Not exactly worth a watch.

Introduction

Hello!
So I decided to set up this blog about films because I enjoy watching movies regularly. Seriously, I watch at least 2 a day as they provide escapism and sheer entertainment.
You will find a lot of Romantic Comedies will be discussed by me due to that being one of my favourite genres - although I have a very eclectic taste so many genres will be involved. 

Not just modern films will be included, I will be reviewing some older films as I watch or rewatch them, as well as those pending release.

'Rookie' clearly states that there will be no real technical analysis of directors' meanings or the beauty of shots, I simply wanted to convey what my thoughts on each film! Feel free to comment, be nice to see some opinions. :)