Previews: Rings Trailer, Coco, More!

The first of this year’s previews of coming attractions include the Rings trailer, a new Blade Runner 2049 image, A Cure for Wellness, and more…

Rings Trailer

Here is the latest Rings trailer. The film is a new chapter in the horror franchise. From the synopsis, Rings does not appear to be directly linked to the characters from 2002’s The Ring, or its sequel. The cast includes Matilda Lutz, Jonathan Galecki, and Vincent D’Onofrio. Rings will hit UK screens on 3rd February 2017.

Blade Runner 2049 Image

Above is a new Blade Runner 2049 image. Not much has been revealed about the characters yet – is Ana de Armas’ character a replicant? Is Ryan Gosing’s? Who knows. Also starring Harrison Ford, Robin Wright, and Jared Leto, Blade Runner 2049 is due open in UK cinemas on 6th October 2017.

A Cure for Wellness Trailer

A Cure for Wellness has to be one of this year’s most anticipated movies. This trailer reveals a little more about the plot, which concerns a young executive who is sent to retrieve his CEO from a mysterious “wellness” centre. Directed by Gore Verbinski, the film stars Dane DeHaan, Mia Goth, and Jason Isaacs. A Cure for Wellness is due for release in UK cinemas in early 2017.

Mute Image

Here is a brand new image from Netflix’s upcoming Mute. Directed by Duncan Jones, the film stars Alexander Skarsgård, Paul Rudd, and Justin Theroux. Set in the near future, the film is about a mute bartender and his search for his missing girlfriend. Mute will be released by Netflix in all their territories later this year.

Beauty and the Beast Video

Here is a short video featuring the leads from the upcoming Beauty and the Beast movie. If follows the clip of Emma Watson singing ‘Something There’, which was released a few days ago. Beauty and the Beast also stars Dan Stevens, and features the voices of Ewan McGregor, Emma Thompson, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw. The film is out in UK cinemas on 17th March 2017.

The LEGO Batman Movie Poster

I am thrilled to see that the upcoming LEGO Batman Movie features Harley Quinn. The film also sees appearances from Robin, The Joker, and Batgirl. Featuring the voices of Will Arnett, Rosario Dawson, Ralph Fiennes, and Jenny Slate, The LEGO Batman Movie will hit UK screens on 10th February 2017.

Patriots Day Trailer

Patriots Day is the latest film from director Peter Berg (Lone Survivor, Battleship). The film concentrates on the immediate aftermath of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. Mark Wahlberg heads up a cast that includes John Goodman, Kevin Bacon, and J.K. Simmons. Patriots Day will be released in cinemas on 23rd February 2017.

Coco Image

Here is the first look at Coco, the latest animated film from Disney Pixar. The movie is about  a young boy who sets of a chain of events relating to a centuries-old mystery. Coco is directed by Pixar stalwart Lee Unkrick and Adrian Molina, who also wrote the film. Featuring the voices of Gael García Bernal and Benjamin Bratt, Coco is due to be released in UK cinemas in December 2017.

Film Review: Larry Crowne

A rare directorial feature from Tom Hanks, Larry Crowne is a warm-hearted comedy. It is likeable in its inoffensiveness and an enjoyable watch.

Larry Crowne is a popular colleague at the retail store he works at. When he loses his job, he decides to go to college, having joined the navy from school instead of going to university. Enrolling in a public speaking course at the community college, Larry meets interesting new friends as well as teacher Ms Tainot…

Larry Crowne is unlikely to have an astronomical impact on cinema. It is, however, a fun movie that should charm audiences. There was always a danger that the film would succumb to unadulterated schmaltz, given its premise, genre and stars. Larry Crowne manages to steer clear of this for the most part, thanks to the screenplay by Hanks and Nia Vardalos. The film is cute without being too cheesy.

The comedy in the film is light with occasional bursts. This is as expected, and in keeping with the tone of the movie. There are some amusing references, as well as some delightful banter. Larry plays the straight man to the amusing ensemble cast more often than not. Ms Tainot and her interactions with her class are a good source of humour.

Some of the themes touched upon by Larry Crowne are very contemporary; the effects of the recession on middle-aged men will be pertinent to today’s audience. Nevertheless, the film has a timeless quality. Aside from a few references, no doubt Larry Crowne will be just as enjoyable for audiences of the future.

Hanks brings a light touch to his direction. There are some nice shots, Larry looking at Lamar and Bella in his rear window for example. This scene in particular is suggestive of the replication of Larry’s adolescent journey. Parallels between Larry’s choices and that of a young adult are clear, although it is never overtly referenced. This is a nice touch, with the film appearing like a love letter to Hanks’ character in 1988’s Big (whether intentional or not).

Tom Hanks is as amiable as ever as the title character. Julia Roberts brings her usual charisma as Ms Tainot. Gugu Mbatha-Raw is also appealing as Talia, while Wilmer Valderrama is amusing as Dell Gordo. Casting is great, with George Takei bringing laughs as Dr Matsutani. Dave Mack is underused as Michael.

Larry Crowne‘s brand of comedy and romance will not appealing to everyone. However, the film is lovingly crafted, and is an entertaining diversion.