Previews: Spark Trailer, Snatched, More!

This week’s preview of coming attractions features the new Spark trailer, plus Snatched, Alien: Covenant, and more…

Spark Trailer

Here is thew new Spark trailer. The film is about a teenage monkey who must journey across the universe in order to save the galaxy. The film features the voices of Susan Sarandon, Patrick Stewart, Jessica Biel, and Hilary Swank. Spark launches on to UK screens on 26th May 2017.

Alien: Covenant Prologue

This Alien: Covenant prologue (The Crossing) bridges the gap between Prometheus and the upcoming Alien: Covenant. The clip explains what happened to the survivors of the previous film, and features Michael Fassbender’s character as narrator. The latest film in the Alien franchise also stars Katherine Waterston, Billy Crudup, and Danny McBride. Alien: Covenant hits UK screens on 12th May 2017.

Snatched Clip

Amy Schumer shows off her comedy prowess in this clip from the upcoming Snatched. The film is about a mis-matched mother and daughter who take an exotic vacation together. Schumer is joined by Goldie Hawn, as well as Wanda Sykes and Joan Cusack. Snatched is out in UK cinemas on 19th May 2017.

Wilson Trailer

Here is the trailer for new comedy Wilson. The film is about a middle-aged misanthrope who reunites with his estranged wife. The film stars Woody Harrelson, Laura Dern, and Judy Greer. Wilson receives its debut at Sundance London on 2nd June 2017, and will be released  in selected cinemas on 9th June 2017.

Kingsman: The Golden Circle Trailer

Following the teaser last week, here is the full trailer for Kingsman: The Golden Circle. In this sequel to Kingsman: The Secret Service, the Kingsman headquarters is destroyed, leading Eggsy and co to discover an allied spy organisation. Director Matthew Vaughn and writer Jane Goldman return, as do Taron Egerton, Mark Strong, and Colin Firth. They are joined by Juliane Moore, Jeff Bridges, Halle Berry, and Channing Tatum. Kingsman: The Golden Circle is scheduled for release in September 2017.

Gifted Clip

Director Marc Webb’s latest film is Gifted. The film stars Chris Evans as a man single-handedly raising his niece (played by Mckenna Grace). The film also stars Jenny Slate and Octavia Spencer, and a one-eyed cat (according to the above clip). Gifted will be released on UK screens on 16th June 2017.

Film Review: Crazy Stupid Love

Slightly overlong and at times cloying, nonetheless Crazy Stupid Love is an enjoyable movie. It won’t be for everyone, but romantic film fans should enjoy it.

Cal is shocked when his wife Emily asks him for a divorce seemingly out of the blue. Having been with his high school sweetheart for most of his life, Cal is suddenly thrown back into the single life a middle-aged man. He meets Jacob at the bar, a young bachelor who has no problems attracting women. As Jacob helps Cal come to terms with dating, it is Jacob who meets his match…

Crazy Stupid Love is in some ways typical of the rom-com genre with its style of humour. There are some amusing incidents and jokes in the film. Nevertheless, Glenn Ficarra and John Requa’s film is more reflective than some of the mindless fluff that populates the rom-com genre. While the movie retains the fantasy air expected of it, the theme of love is dealt with in a more well-rounded manner.

The film can be very sentimental on occasion. Those who do not buy into Crazy Stupid Love may find it cheesy. Viewers who embrace the movie, however, may shed a tear at the most emotional moments. In some ways, it offers the audience everything it would expect, although the film is crafted well enough that it can be forgiven for this.

The pacing of Crazy Stupid Love could have been tightened. The film goes on for a bit too long, and does not end when it is expected to. Nonetheless, what entertains viewers is the three-strand format. Given the theme of the film, these three strands cover different times. This offers viewers different point of identification, giving most people at least one character to empathise with. Frequently it is the Robbie, the young boy, whose tale is most endearing.

The chemistry between the cast is great, and really shows through on screen. This is particularly true of Ryan Gosling’s Jacob and Emma Stone’s Hannah; the couple really sizzle. Elsewhere performances are good. Julianne Moore is solid as ever as Emily, while Jonah Bobo offers a touching portrayal as Robbie.

Crazy Stupid Love features slick production values that are in keeping with its Los Angeles setting. The film really plays up Jacob’s heartthrob role with the choice of camera shots and music. Overall, Crazy Stupid Love should make viewers laugh and reflect. Those who find Hollywood romances grating should avoid.