Previews: Dark River Poster, Oceans 8, More!

Plenty in this pre-Christmas preview of coming events, including the new Dark River poster, Gringo, Oceans 8, and more…

Dark River Poster

Here is the new Dark River poster. The drama is about fraught relationship between a brother and a sister. Directed by Clio Bernard, the film stars Ruth Wilson, Mark Stanley, and Sean Bean. Dark River will be released in UK cinemas on 23rd February 2018.

Gringo Trailer

Gringo is a dark comedy about a businessman who finds himself at the mercy of colleagues and local drug lords in Mexico. The film features an all-star cast that includes David Oyelowo, Charlize Theron, Joel Edgerton, and Amanda Seyfried. Gringo is directed by Nash Edgerton (brother of Joel), and is set for release on UK screens on 9th March 2018.

Oceans 8 Trailer

Here is the first trailer for Oceans 8. The film features the same big heist set-up as its predecessors, albeit with a brand new cast. Sandra Bullock leads the star-studded cast, and is joined by Cate Blanchett, Mindy Kaling, and Anne Hathaway. Oceans 8 is scheduled for release in June 2018.

Isle of Dogs Poster

Here is the newest poster for Wes Anderson’s Isle of Dogs. The stop-motion animated film is about a boy who travels to an island of dogs to find his dog, Spots. The enviable voice cast includes Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum, Ken Watanabe, and Greta Gerwig. Isle of Dogs will be released in UK cinemas on 30th March 2017.

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again Trailer

The sequel to the hit 2008 film Mamma Mia! gets a belated sequel. The film is part sequel and part prequel as it focuses on current activity and well as telling the story of Donna when she was younger. Lily James plays the young Donna, and the cast of the original reprise their roles, including Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Pierce Brosnan, and Colin Firth. Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again will be released on 20th July 2018.

Film Review: Loving

Jeff Nichols’ Loving is sincere and thoughtful drama based on a real case. Whilst the tone of the film is aptly pensive, the film lacks the punch some may expect.

Richard and Mildred are an interracial couple in Virginia, where anti-miscegenation laws are still in effect. The marry out of state, but are arrested at home. The legal battle to have their marriage recognised takes them to the highest court in the United States…

Writer-director Jeff Nichols has created a heartfelt and expansive film with Loving. The film takes its time to paint the couple and their story. It is not really a story of the court battles, rather it is a film about a couple in love and the personal struggle that they face. The story is pivotal to civil liberties and equality, and their case was a landmark one. Yet the emphasis remains on what it means to the couple.

Loving is a love story. The film begins by depicting Richard and Mildred as a couple, existing in a mixed community. Nichols’ continues in a similar style to his pervious pictures; a significant period of time passes before the first line of dialogue is spoken. Nichols’ shows his characters’ feelings through expressions and actions. These work very effectively.

The film is leaden on occasion; a weight can be felt but it is not always needed. Michael Shannon’s appearance perks up a stagnant moment, elsewhere the pacing functions adequately to allow viewers to absorb. Those brought up in a town or city may wryly smile at Mildred’s insistence on a country upbringing for her children. The Virginia scenes are beautifully shot.

Ruth Negga delivers a strong performance as Mildred. The actress is very believable in this role. She is matched in this respect by Joel Edgerton’s Richard. A man of few words, both Negga and Edgerton convey much of their relationship through expression. Loving tells an important story, made more pertinent by current affairs. Nichols continues his trend for producing beautifully-shot, Southern-set, ponderous films.

Previews: Logan Trailer, Loving, and more!

Plenty of great previews this week, including the new Logan trailer, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Loving, and more…

Logan Trailer

Here is the first Logan trailer, the latest film in the X-Men series. The film is set in the future, and sees Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart reprise their roles. Logan is directed by James Mangold, who helmed 2013’s The Wolverine. The film is set for release in cinemas in 2017.

Loving Featurette

Loving tells the true story of the Richard and Mildred Loving, who fought for their right to live as an interracial couple in late 1950s America. This featurette sees the the cast of the film, including Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga, discuss the characters and the wider background. Loving will be released in UK cinemas on 3rd February 2017.

A Cure for Wellness Trailer

This trailer for A Cure for Wellness looks intriguing. The film is a psychological thriller from director Gore Verbinski. A young executive is sent to a remote wellness centre to retrieve his company’s CEO. Starring Dane DeHaan, Mia Goth, and Jason Isaacs, A Cure for Wellness is set for release in early 2017.

Collateral Beauty Poster

Here is the latest poster for Collateral Beauty. The film is about an advertising executive, and the group of colleagues who get him to confront his grief. The film features a stellar cast, including Will Smith, Edward Norton, and Helen Mirren. Collateral Beauty will be out in cinemas on 26th December 2016.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Trailer

So for most of this first trailer for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, it seems as if Marvel are withholding Baby Groot. But, have no fear, they deliver at the very end. The eagerly anticipated sequel sees the cast of Guardians of the Galaxy reunite. Brand new footage of James Gunn’s film can be seen at screenings of Doctor Strange (released on the 25th October). Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is scheduled for release in UK cinemas on 28th April 2017.

The Accountant TV Spot

Here is one of the latest TV spots for The Accountant. The film had its European premiere in London’s Leicester Square this week. The Accountant stars Ben Affleck as a freelance accountant for some of the world’s most dangerous organisations. The film hits UK screens on 4th November 2016.

Previews: The Legend of Tarzan trailer, TMNT2 and more!

An abundance of film trailers this week, including The Legend of Tarzan trailer, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows and more…

The Legend of Tarzan Trailer

The Legend of Tarzan trailer is here. Boasting a cast that includes Alexander Skarsgård, Margot Robie, Samuel L. Jackson and Christoph Waltz, the film focuses on Tarzan later in life when he asked to be a trade emissary and travel to the Congo. The Legend of Tarzan bombards its way to cinema screens on 18th July 2016.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows Trailer

For where is Krang? That’s what everyone wants to know. The trailer for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows is here, and features more of the characters from the much-loved cartoon series of the 1980s-1990s. The follow-up to 2014’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is released on 3rd June 2016.

Jane Got A Gun Trailer

Here is the trailer for Western Jane Got a Gun. The film stars Natalie Portman as a mother living on a ranch in New Mexico when her family is threatened by a gang of outlaws. Also starring Joel Edgerton and Ewan McGregor, Jane Got A Gun is set for release in Spring 2016.

The BFG Trailer

The BFG was never my favourite Roald Dahl book (after all, it didn’t revolve round a chocolate factory), but this new film adaptation looks to be a spectacle. Steven Spielberg directs the live-action film, with a cast that includes Mark Rylance, Rebecca Hall and Bill Hader. The BFG stomps its way onto screens on 22nd July 2016.

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice Trailer

The full-length trailer for Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice reveals quite a bit about the upcoming superhero movie. We get to see Clark Kent meeting Bruce Wayne, even if it may take some time getting used to seeing Ben Affleck in this role. There is also more of Jesse Eisenberg’s Lex Luthor and an appearance from another of the Justice League. Zack Snyder’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is released in cinemas in March 2016.

The Nice Guys Trailer

The Nice Guys sees the unlikely pairing of muscle for hire Russell Crowe and private eye Ryan Gosling team up to track down a missing girl. The film’s 1970s setting is instantly recognisable, from the costumes to the soundtrack. Also starring Kim Basinger and Matt Bomer, The Nice Guys will hit the big screen on 3rd June 2016.

Film Review: Black Mass

Director and co-writer Scott Cooper continues his winning streak with Black Mass. The film is well crafted, well written and very entertaining.

Gangster Jimmy ‘Whitey’ Bulger is one of South Boston’s most notorious criminals. The brother of a state senator, Jimmy becomes an FBI informant to take down a Mafia family taking over his turf…

After the success of Crazy Heart and Out of the Furnace, Scott Cooper continues to direct superlative features with Black Mass. Based on a true story, Black Mass charts the rise and fall of the famous gangster of South Boston. The film exhibits familiar gangster tropes, but these are executed in a competent and engaging fashion.

Scott Cooper’s direction is strong. The narrative is told is chronological order, with flash forwards inserted to give viewers an idea of where the story is headed. Given how well known the protagonist is, this is not a giveaway to see the outcome well in advance.

Perhaps the most interesting facet of Black Mass is other characters’ relationship with Jimmy. A range of characters are featured, with varying relationships with the protagonist. Each of these connections help to sketch a picture of Jimmy, ensuring he is a three-dimensional protagonist. Towards the outcome of the film, the different choices his compatriots make are illuminating. There is a poignancy point at the end of the film with regards to John Connolly and the decision he makes about Jimmy.

Violence is a prominent feature of Black Mass. The willingness of Jimmy to carry out these brutal acts successful exemplify the type of character he is. Cooper does not shy away from depicting some brutal violence, yet it never feels gratuitous given the tone of the film. The soundtrack and costumes works well to signpost the changing eras. Art direction is good, with cool colours contrasting strongly with neon lighting in certain scenes.

Johnny Depp gives one of his strongest performances in recent years as Jimmy Bulger. Joel Edgerton is very believable as Connolly, whilst Benedict Cumberbatch and Rory Cochrane are decent in supporting roles.

Black Mass is great addition to the gangster movie genre, and enjoyable film overall.

Black Mass is being screened at the London Film Festival in October 2015.

Previews: Deadpool Trailer, Crimson Peak Poster and more

Plenty in this week’s preview of coming attractions, including the Deadpool trailer, a video for The Martian, the latest Crimson Peak poster and more…

Deadpool Trailer

Here is the red band Deadpool trailer. The film deviates from other Marvel films in that it is clearly aimed at an adult audience with the violence and swearing. As such, it offers something different in the cramped superhero marketplace. Deadpool is set for release on 4th February 2016. My birthday, in case you were wondering.

Hitman: Agent 47 Trailer

The trailer for Hitman: Agent 47 certainly looks action-packed. The film is based on a games franchise, of which I know only that you have to toss a coin to distract people. Starring Rupert Friend and Zachary Quinto, Hitman: Agent 47 will hit the big screen on 27th August 2015.

The Martian Video

This video, found in the Ares archive, reveals a bit about the main characters in Ridley Scott’s upcoming The Martian. The film is about an astronaut who gets stranded on Mars, and the efforts to rescue him. The all-star cast includes Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain and Chiwetel Ejiofor. The Martian is released in UK cinemas on 30th September 2015.

Crimson Peak Poster

Here is the latest image from Guillermo del Toro’s latest Crimson Peak. The film is about a young woman who is swept away to an old house which is full of mystery. The gothic horror stars Mia Wasikowska, Tom Hiddleston and Jessica Chastain. Crimson Peak creeps its way onto the big screen on 16th October 2015.

The Intern Trailer

The Intern stars Robert De Niro as the older intern of high-flyer Anne Hathaway. The film is the latest from writer-director Nancy Myers, and seems to have a similar style to her previous output. The Intern will be released in UK cinemas on 2nd October 2015.

Zoolander 2 Trailer

Here is the teaser for comedy sequel Zoolander 2. It reveals little about the plot of the new film, but reassures that the style of comedy has not changed. Reuniting Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson and Will Ferrell, Zoolander 2 is set for release in February 2016.

Black Mass Trailer

Here is the trailer for Black Mass, which focuses on notorious mobster James “Whitey” Bulger. Starring Johnny Depp, Joel Edgerton and Benedict Cumberbatch, it will interesting to see how the film compares to other gangster movies. Black Mass will be released in cinemas on 13th November 2015.

Film Review: The Gift

Joel Edgerton’s The Gift is an atmospheric mystery drama. The film suggests a promising career for Edgerton as a filmmaker.

Married couple Simon and Robyn move back to Simon’s hometown for his new job. An encounter with a former school acquaintance seems an inconsequential occurrence to the couple, but Gordo has other ideas…

The Gift is Joel Edgerton’s debut feature as a writer-director. Overall, it indicates a talent behind the screen as well as in front of the camera; Edgerton stars as Gordo in the film. Those expecting a horror movie may be disappointed by The Gift. Although there are a few jumpy moments, it is misleading to classify the film as a horror. The Gift is best considered a mystery, which develops into an engaging drama as events unfold.

The premise of The Gift may suggest the kind of unhinged stalker thriller that viewers are bound to have seen several times before. However, Edgerton eschews this option, offering a much less predictable film. The ending in particular could go a number of ways given the breadcrumbs laid out beforehand. However, it is a satisfying conclusion to proceedings.

Protagonists in The Gift are well rounded. It would have been easy for Edgerton to follow the convention of the good guys being terrorised by an unstable outsider, but The Gift does not quite work in this way. The narrative unfolds at a good pace, keeping viewers engaged throughout. The twists in the film are believable, and the film is all the better for not following a predictable path.

Joel Edgerton gives a great performance as Gordo, bringing a suitably unnerving presence to the character. It is good to see Jason Bateman in a different type of role, whilst Rebecca Hall is decent as Robyn. Camera work is good, and the house is a great location for most of the action to take place in.

The Gift will satisfy audiences as long as they are aware that the film is not a horror. It offers something more original than a horror of this theme would have.

Stuff To Look At

The brand new teaser for Star Wars: The Force Awakens! Plus Pan, Jurassic World, Cinderella and more this week…

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

How exciting! The first proper look at the new Star Wars film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens. This teaser does not reveal too much about the film, although it is a mighty relief that there is no sign of Jar Jar Binks. Star Wars: The Force Awakens is set for release in cinemas on 18th December 2015.

Kingsman: The Secret Service

Oh my, there is a pug in this film! But if you need any more swaying, Kingsman: The Secret Service is an action comedy starring Colin Firth, Samuel L. Jackson and Michael Caine. Directed by Matthew Vaughn, Kingsman: The Secret Service is out in UK cinemas on 29th January 2015.

Jurassic World

Dinosaurs in the sea! Genetically modified dinosaurs! Even after the events of the first three films, they still decided to open Jurassic Park. Steven Spielberg returns as executive producer for Jurassic World, which is due for release on 12th June 2015.

Pan

Fascinating fact: some of Pan was filmed mere meters from where I am sitting right now. A new live-action take on the classic story, Pan stars Hugh Jackman, Amanda Seyfried and Garrett Hedlund. The film is scheduled for release in July 2015.

Cinderella

Here is the first trailer for Disney’s new live-action fairy tale Cinderella. Starring Lily James, Cate Blanchett and Helena Bonham Carter, it will be interesting to see if the film can replicate the success of this year’s Maleficent. Cinderella hits the big screen on 27th March 2015 in the UK.

Into The Woods

Here is a featurette on upcoming musical Into The Woods. Meryl Streep certainly looks like a force to be reckoned with as the witch. Directed by Robert Marshall, Into The Woods is out in UK cinemas on 9th January 2014.

Exodus: Gods and Kings

Here is a clip from Ridley Scott’s upcoming biblical epic Exodus: Gods and Kings. Starring Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton and Indira Varma, the film is a retelling of the Moses story. Exodus: Gods and Kings will hit the big screen on Boxing Day, 26th December 2014, in the UK.

Film Review: The Great Gatsby

Baz Luhrman’s adaptation of The Great Gatsby is both dazzling and dizzying. Although the film has its detractors, it offers an unmissable cinematic experience.

Writer turned bond salesman Nick Carraway rents a cottage in Long Island. Living next door in a huge mansion is mysterious multi-millionaire Jay Gatsby. Nick finds himself being drawn into the life of his wealthy neighbour…

Those expecting a faithful version of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s seminal work are unlikely to be fully satisfied by this film. It is Baz Luhrmann’s interpretation of the story, and an ambitious one at that. Once viewers are aware of this (and the abundance of promotion for the film has made this clear), they should find The Great Gatsby an immersive and enjoyable ride.

The main shift from the novel revolves around the tone and representation rather than changes to the narrative. The film uses a lot of the same dialogue from its source material, which is unsurprising given the artistry of Fitzgerald’s prose. Luhrmann instead eschews some of the subtlety of the novel in favour of excess. Elements that are dealt with nuance are shifted to centre stage in this version.

Like the novel, the relationship between Gatsby and Daisy dominates the narrative. However, Luhrmann pushes this further with an almost undivided focus on the relationship. There is less emphasis on Gatsby’s past and rise, except in relation to Daisy. Nick functions almost entirely as a narrator in the film, with much less being made of his interactions with Jordan Baker. The framing device employed in The Great Gatsby is not really necessary. It seems to have been added in to underscore the main narrative as a recollection; with the archive footage and overlayed text feeding into this.

From the opening titles to the final scene, The Great Gatsby is visually sumptuous. The 3D looks fantastic and is employed smartly with the highly stylised look of the film. The cinematography makes the most of this extra dimension. The camera work is at times disorientating in paralleling the frenzied nature of the mood and action.

The costumes and styling are excellent. Much has been made of the modern soundtrack, but it is a fantastic accompaniment to the on-screen action. Leonardo DiCaprio offers a terrific performance as the title character. Carey Mulligan is also strong as Daisy, and Joel Edgerton is finely cast as Tom Buchanan. The only letdown is Tobey Maguire, who is rather flaccid as Nick.

The Great Gatsby is a hymn to excess. A new cinematic version of a beloved book was always going to have some naysayers. But with Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby, viewers should sit back and engorge.

Film Review: The Odd Life of Timothy Green

The Odd Life of Timothy Green is a sickly sweet fantasy that requires a healthy suspension of disbelief.

Cindy and Jim Green long for a child. After receiving bad news from a fertility doctor, the couple discuss the traits they would want their child to have and bury those wishes in a box. Something unexpected occurs during a storm later that night…

It is difficult to take a film like The Odd Life of Timothy Green seriously. This is because the incidents that occur are so far removed from reality that the film lacks any sense of verisimilitude. Despite being set in contemporary small town with a mostly regular cast, the premise of the film is most incredulous.

Nevertheless, this is not to say that The Odd Life of Timothy Green is boring. The film should prove sufficiently entertaining for a family audience.  It may leave viewer slightly bemused, but Peter Hedges’ film does its best to entertain. There are some flaws, however. After the initial set up, the narrative is a bit predictable. Cindy and Jim Green come across badly at the beginning, although they become more endearing as the film progresses. Finally, there are some lines of dialogue that are ridiculous, but this adds to the overall experience and will amuse those viewers struggling to take the film seriously.

Joel Edgerton is decent as Jim Green. Both Jennifer Garner and Dianne Wiest are adequate. The Odd Life of Timothy Green was never going to be a highlight on any of their resumes. CJ Adams offers a good performance as Timothy. He has an appealing quality which is most necessary for this role.

The Odd Life of Timothy Green will not be for everyone. The premise and style of the movie certainly narrow its appeal. Nevertheless, viewers who take a punt are unlikely to be bored.