Film Review: Dragged Across Concrete

S. Craig Zahler’s latest film Dragged Across Concrete is uncomfortable yet often enthralling viewing. 

Two cops get suspended from the police force for using excessive force. The pair decide to descend into the criminal underworld in order to get compensation, but the payday is anything but simple…

Ostensibly a crime thriller, with a two hour thirty-nine minute run time, Dragged Across Concrete is a sprawling tale of various parties with eyes on a big prize. Writer-director S. Craig Zahler’s film does not follow a predictable path. Instead red herrings are dropped, as audience are taken on a diverging journey.  

The optics of protagonists who are racist cops aren’t great. But perhaps this is the point. Dragged Across Concrete gives no comfortable heroes to root for. Instead there are only villains of varying degrees, and victims of little consequence. Is the message of Zahler’s film is that it is ok to be onside with the least worst? This is unclear. Despite some good dialogue elsewhere, there is a stilted scene in the police lieutenant’s office which seems to solely project a view of the tired “pc gone mad” diatribe. The impression given is that cops aren’t meant to be the heroes here, other mindsets may place them as anti-heroes however. This is an uncomfortable balance. Nevertheless, there is plenty to ruminate on. 

There are a few sets of characters, none of which are archetypal heroes. Instead the spectrum ranges from the flawed, necessity-based criminal to the out-and-out villain. Yet the villain does not fill the role expected. The showdown is something else, with a good deal of tension, despite the duration. With characters trying to outwit each other, it is not clear who will come out on top. 

There are several violent sequence, but less of the prolonged brutality viewers may expect after Brawl in Cell Block 99 and Bone Tomahawk. The sound design is a definite bonus. Vince Vaughan delivers a solid performance. Tory Kittles also stands out. The role of Richmond made more uncomfortable given Mel Gibson’s history. 

Dragged Across Concrete gives viewers plenty to mull over. As a director, Zahler has delivered his third solid film.

Film Review: Daddy’s Home 2

Comedy sequel Daddy’s Home 2 is long on the festive spirit, but short on laughs. Sean Anders’ film is not one for the books.

‘Co-dads’ Dusty and Brad agree to host a joint Christmas so the children can spend the day with both sets of parents. Their plans for a peaceful holiday are hampered by the arrival of both their fathers, however…

Written by Sean Anders and Brian Burns and directed by Anders, Daddy’s Home 2 sits in an interesting position. The film is a sequel to 2015’s Daddy’s Home, a not altogether satisfying comedy. The sequel offers less laughs than its predecessor, with the crude humour being replaced with more family-friendly fare.

Anders’ film introduces two new characters into the mix. Like Dusty and Brad, Kurt and Don are polar opposites. And like the protagonists, these two are offered flimsy characterisation. The narrative goes the way most will anticipate; old tensions start to rise between Dusty and Kurt when their families spend Christmas in a cabin.

The film attempts to provide an emotional core, but this is about as successful as the comedy. There less than five amusing gags in the film, certainly not enough to sustain viewers for over an hour and a half. Like the first film, Daddy’s Home 2 has its fair share of slapstick. This wears thin after a while, with set pieces given a cartoonish quality. The finale of the film tries to capitalise on the Christmas setting by ramping up the sentiment. The film does not engage in an emotional way, so this feels inauthentic. Whilst there is a laugh here, it is over-egged.

Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg play to type once again. The introduction of John Lithgow in a smart move; he is a welcome presence. Mel Gibson is less welcome however. Gibson is noticeably poor as Kurt. The close-ups of his over-the-top cackling are particularly cringe-inducing.

Daddy’s Home 2 is hopefully the last in this franchise of films. It would be great if Will Ferrell’s next comedy has consistent laughs.

Previews: The Man Who Invented Christmas Trailer, More!

Plenty in this week’s preview of coming attractions, including The Man Who Invented Christmas trailer, Phantom Thread, Daddy’s Home 2 and more…

The Man Who Invented Christmas Trailer

Here is the first The Man Who Invented Christmas trailer. The film stars Dan Stevens as Charles Dickens, and tells the story behind the classic A Christmas Carol. Directed by Bharat Nalluri, the film also stars Christopher Plummer, Jonathan Pryce, and Miriam Margolyes. The Man Who Invented Christmas hits UK screens on 1st December 2017.

Winchester: The House That Ghosts Built Trailer

This looks suitably chilling. Winchester: The House That Ghosts Built is inspired by true events, and is about Winchester fortune heiress, who keeps construction going on her house for decades. The film stars Helen Mirren, Jason Clarke, and Sarah Snook. Winchester: The House That Ghosts Built is set for release in UK cinemas on 2nd March 2018.

Daddy’s Home 2 Clip

Here is a clip from upcoming comedy sequel Daddy’s Home 2. A follow-up to 2015’s Daddy’s Home, the film sees the return of Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg’s characters as they celebrate Christmas. This time, they are joined by their own dads, played by John Lithgow and Mel Gibson. Daddy’s Home 2 is out in UK cinemas on 22nd November 2017, with previews on 18th and 19th November.

Darkest Hour Poster

Here is one of the latest posters for Darkest Hour. Directed by Joe Wright (Pan, Anna Karenina), the film is about the lead up to Britain entering World War II. Gary Oldman is unrecognisable as Winston Churchill. He is joined by Kristin Scott Thomas, Lily James, and Ben Mendelsohn. Darkest Hour hits UK screens on 12th January 2018.

Phantom Thread Trailer

Here is the trailer for the eagerly anticipated Phantom Thread. The film is the second collaboration between writer-director Paul Thomas Anderson and actor Daniel Day-Lewis. The film is about a fashion designer who falls in love with a young woman, who becomes his  muse. The film also stars Lesley Manville and Vicky Krieps. Phantom Thread is out in UK cinemas on 2nd February 2018.

Journey’s End Trailer

Journey’s End is based on the play and novel of the same name. The film is about a company on the front-line trenches in France during World War I. Journey’s End stars Sam Claflin (My Cousin Rachel), Asa Butterfield, and Toby Jones. The film is set for release on 2nd February 2018.

Previews: Murder on the Orient Express Poster, More!

A cornucopia of film related goodness in this week’s preview, including the new Murder on the Orient Express poster, Flatliners, Early Man, and more…

Murder on the Orient Express Poster

Here is the brand new Murder on the Orient Express poster. Directed by Kenneth Branagh, the film is based on the classic Agatha Christie novel. Branagh also stars and has assembled a stellar cast; Penelope Cruz, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Johnny Depp to name a few. Murder on the Orient Express hits UK screens in November 2017.

Flatliners Trailer

Here is the latest trailer for the new Flatliners film. The film is about a group of medical students who experiment by stopping their hearts temporarily. Starring Ellen Page and Diego Luna, Flatliners will be released in UK cinemas on 29th September 2017.

Early Man Trailer

Early Man is the latest film from Nick Park. The film is about two cavemen who unite their tribe against a mighty enemy. The voice cast features a wealth of British talent, including Eddie Redmayne, Tom Hiddleston, and Timothy Spall. Early Man is set for release in UK cinemas on 26th January 2018.

Daddy’s Home 2 Trailer

The sequel to Daddy’s Home sees the protagonists’ fathers appear for Christmas vacation. Mel Gibson and John Lithgow join the returning cast, headed by Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell. Daddy Home 2 will hit the big screen later this year.

Mudbound Trailer

Mudbound has received critical acclaim since it premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Directed by Dee Rees, the film is about an unlikely friendship between a black soldier and a white soldier when they return from war. The film stars Carey Mulligan, Jason Clarke, Mary J. Blige, and Jason Mitchell. Mudbound is screening at the BFI London Film Festival in October, and will launch on Netflix and selected cinemas on 17th November 2017.

Previews: Pitch Perfect 3 Poster, Detroit, More!

This week’s preview of coming attractions includes the latest Pitch Perfect 3 poster, Battle of the Sexes, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, Detroit, and more…

Pitch Perfect 3 Poster

 

The Bellas are back in this latest Pitch Perfect 3 poster. The film sees the return of Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson and the rest of the gang for one last hurrah. Expect more a cappella tunes as made popular by the first film. The trailer for Pitch Perfect 3 will launch on 25th June, and the film is due for release at Christmas this year.

Battle of the Sexes Trailer

Here is the new Battle of the Sexes trailer. The film is based on the real-life match between women’s number one Billie Jean King (played by Emma Stone) and former men’s champion Bobby Riggs (Steve Carell) in 1973. The film also stars Andrea Riseborough, Sarah Silverman, and Bill Pullman. Battle of the Sexes is set for release in UK cinemas on 20th October 2017.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom Poster

Here is the first poster for sequel Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. Not much is know about the film yet, but the film sees the return of Jeff Goldblum as Dr Ian Malcolm from the first series (hence his famous quote being appropriated for the tagline). This sequel to Jurassic World also sees Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard reprising their roles. Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is scheduled for release in June 2018.

Annabelle: Creation Trailer

One of cinema’s creepiest dolls is back for another instalment. Annabelle: Creation is a prequel to 2014’s Annabelle, and tells the origins story of the doll. The film is produced by James Wan and directed by David F. Sandberg, who helmed last year’s Lights Out. Annabelle: Creation hits UK screens on 11th August 2017.

Daddy’s Home 2 Trailer

The sequel to 2015’s Daddy’s Home features even more dads. Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg reunite for Daddy’s Home 2, and are joined by John Lithgow and Mel Gibson playing their respective dads. This film is set at Christmas, when the two families decide to spend the holidays together. Daddy’s Home 2 is set for release later this year.

Home Again Trailer

Home Again is a new romantic comedy from producer Nancy Meyers. The film stars Reese Witherspoon as a separated mother of two, who decides to take in three young filmmakers. The film also stars Nat Wolff, Michael Sheen, and Candice Bergen. Home Again will be released in UK cinemas on 29th September 2017.

Detroit Trailer

Detroit is about the civil unrest that rocked the city in the summer of 1967. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, the film stars John Boyega, Will Poulter, Anthony Mackie, and Jack Reynor. Detroit will hit UK screens on 25th August 2017.

Film Review: Hacksaw Ridge

Mel Gibson’s Hacksaw Ridge is a brutal true story which illustrates the director’s flair for storytelling. Switching between sentiment and violence, the film is utterly compelling at times.

Desmond Doss signs up to join the army during World War II, feeling it is his duty to serve his country as a medic. His religious beliefs mean that he refuses to fire a weapon. Seen as a conscientious objector, Desmond enters a gruelling battle with his regiment…

Hacksaw Ridge is based on the true story of Desmond Doss, who was awarded the Medal of Honour for his bravery in battle. Written by Robert Schenkkan and Andrew Knight, the film focuses on Doss from his early family life to his later heroics in battle. The film is a sincere portrait of an extraordinary individual.

Director Mel Gibson concentrates on a different aspect of Doss’ life in each of the film’s three acts. The first explores the protagonist’s childhood; giving colour to his beliefs and his relationship with his family. There is also an emphasis on his father’s trauma following military service. The story moves on to Desmond as a young man. The scenes in which he woos Dorothy are heady with sentiment. At times the film is aware of this corniness. Nevertheless, the scenes are very watchable.

The mood shifts between this sweet sentimentality and more forceful drama. There is plenty of humour to be found at training camp, but again this switches quickly with the onset of darker scenes. It is the action scenes which are most memorable in Gibson’s film, however. The war sequences are absolutely brutal, offering a dizzying and terrifying depiction of battle. Viewers who have seen Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ will not be surprised by the level of violence, yet Hacksaw Ridge is unrelenting in its portrayal of carnage. At times difficult to watch, the direction, editing, cinematography and sound design create haunting sequences.

Andrew Garfield delivers a convincing performance as Doss. He is cute in the romantic scenes, and very authentic in depicting Desmond’s struggle. Hugo Weaving puts in a great turn as Desmond’s father, and Vince Vaughn is well cast in his role.

With Hacksaw Ridge, Gibson reminds cinemagoers of his adept storytelling abilities. The film is a testament to conviction, as well as the brutality of war.

Previews: Denial trailer, Hacksaw Ridge and More!

Plenty of trailers, images, and features this week, including the Denial trailer, Hacksaw Ridge, Wonder Woman and more…

Denial Trailer

Here is the new Denial trailer. The film is based on the legal battle over Holocaust denial. Rachel Weisz plays Deborah E. Lipstadt who is accused of libel by David Irving (Timothy Spall). Also starring Tom Wilkinson, Denial is set for release on 27th January 2017.

Fences Poster

Here is the latest poster for Denzel Washington’s Fences. Washington directs and stars in the film, based on August Wilson’s play. Wilson also writes the screenplay for the film. Also starring Viola Davis, Fences is out in UK cinemas in early 2017.

Hacksaw Ridge Clip

This is a clip from the upcoming Hacksaw Ridge. Directed by Mel Gibson, the film is based on the true story of Desmond Doss, who saved many soldiers without firing a weapon in a World War II battle. Starring Andrew Garfield, Vince Vaughn, and Teresa Palmer, Hacksaw Ridge will be released on 27th January 2017.

Darkest Hour Image

The first image from Darkest Hour is striking to say the least. Gary Oldman has form as a chameleon, and proves his transformation skills once again playing Winston Churchill. Director Joe Wright’s film is about the tense time the former British Prime Minister faces trying to negotiate a peace treaty with Nazi Germany. Darkest Hour is scheduled for release on 29th December 2017.

The LEGO Batman Movie Trailer

A spin-off from the wonderful The LEGO Movie, The LEGO Batman Movie focuses on one of the best characters from the original film. This trailer reveals more about the plot, as well as the range of franchise characters we can expect. Featuring the voices of Will Arnett, Ralph Fiennes, and Michael Cera, The LEGO Batman Movie will hit UK screens on 10th February 2017.

Passengers Poster

Here is the latest poster for Passengers. Starring America’s current sweethearts Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt, the film is about to passengers on a spacecraft transporting them to a different planet. Also starring Michael Sheen and Laurence Fishburne, Passengers is out in UK cinemas on 21st December 2016.

Wonder Woman Trailer

The second trailer for Wonder Woman reveals more about the narrative and the main characters. Set during World War II, the film tells the story behind the photograph seen in Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice. Starring Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, and Connie Nielsen, Wonder Woman hits UK screens on 2nd June 2017.

Sully: Miracle on the Hudson Poster

Sully: Miracle on the Hudson tells the story of the pilot who landed a passenger plane on the Hudson River. The film, directed by Clint Eastwood, focuses on the heroic act and the investigation that followed. Sully: Miracle on the Hudson jets onto UK screens on 2nd December 2016.

Previews: Rules Don’t Apply Trailer, Doctor Strange, More!

Lots of film-related goodness this week, including the new Rules Don’t Apply trailer, Hacksaw Ridge, Doctor Strange and more…

Rules Don’t Apply Trailer

Here is the latest Rules Don’t Apply trailer. The film is directed by Warren Beatty, who stars as Howard Hughes. The film is about a relationship between Hughes’ driver (played by Alden Ehrenreich) and an aspiring young actress (played by Lily Collins). Rules Don’t Apply is one of a number of recent films set in Hollywood’s Golden Age, following Café Society and  Hail, Caesar!. Beatty’s film is scheduled for release soon.

Jack Reacher: Never Go Back Trailer

Here is the new trailer for action-thriller Jack Reacher: Never Go Back. The film is a follow up to 2012’s Jack Reacher. This instalment sees To Cruise return as the title character. I am hoping that filmmakers keep the same tone as the original film, even if there is no Werner Herzog. Jack Reacher: Never Go Back hits cinema and IMAX screens on 20th October 2016.

Doctor Strange Poster

Here is one of the Doctor Strange character posters. Tilda Swinton joins a stellar cast (Benedict Cumberbatch, Rachel McAdams, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Benedict Womg, and Mads Mikkelsen) in Marvel’s latest film. Cumberbatch stars as Dr Stephen Strange, a neurosurgeon who sets out to repair himself following an accident. Doctor Strange is out in UK cinemas on 25th October 2016.

Moana Featurette

Here is Moana star Dwayne Johnson and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda talk about mutual love and respect in this new featurette. The film is about a teenager who sets out on a mission to complete her ancestors’ unfulfilled quest. Moana will be released in UK cinemas on 2nd December 2016.

Fences Trailer

Denzel Washington directs Fences, based on August Wilson’s award-winning play. Wilson also writes the screenplay for the film, which is about a man struggling to raise his family in the 1950s. Also starring the brilliant Viola Davis, Fences is set for release soon.

20th Century Women Trailer

Writer-director Mike Mills follows 2011’s Beginners with 20th Century Women. The film is about three women at different eras of the 20th century. Starring Annette Benning, Greta Gerwig, and Elle Fanning, 20th Century Women will be released in 2017.

Hacksaw Ridge Trailer

Mel Gibson directs war drama Hacksaw Ridge. The film is about the true story of Desmond Doss, a soldier during World War II who saved many of his compatriots without firing a weapon. Starring Andrew Garfield, Sam Worthington, and Teresa Palmer, Hacksaw Ridge will be released in cinemas soon.

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Trailer

Here is the final trailer for Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. The film is based on the magical world created by J.K. Rowling. Starring Eddie Redmayne, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is out in 3D on 18th November 2016.

Film Review: The Expendables 3

The latest instalment, The Expendables 3 certainly brings star power. Nevertheless, the film is a bit patchy; the narrative and visuals could have done with more work.

Whilst on a mission, Barney Ross and his team of mercenaries take a personal hit. Barney is determined to track down the arms dealer responsible, requiring fresh blood to do so…

Director Patrick Hughes’ The Expendables 3 continues on the same tact as the previous two films. However this instalment lacks some of the humour of The Expendables 2, which was a highlight of that film.

The story in The Expendables 3 is not particlarly compelling. There is a focus on the new characters that protagonist Barney meets. This new breed of mercenaries, however, are not that interesting as characters. Only one of these new characters has a distinct personality, and is a welcome addition to proceedings.

The Expendables 3 would have definitely benefitted from more humour. The second film in this franchise got the balance right between action and comedy. This film reverts to the more serious style of the first film. This is a shame, as the second film was overt in not taking itself too seriously. The Expendables 3 has too many moments where it attempts to bring emotion (with lingering shots and the like). Unfortunately this simply is not there.

The film relies on some action heavy set pieces. Some of the effects in the film are poorly executed. Stock footage is used to a noticable point. The violence does feel as if it has been edited for a lower rating. The action works best with the physical combat, of which some of the new additions show their prowess.

Antonio Banderas is a welcome addition to the cast. Harrison Ford and Wesley Snipes seem to be having fun in their roles, while Mel Gibson is well cast. The chemistry between Sylvester Stallone and Jason Statham so pushed in all three films still does not generate the laughs that it hopes to.

The Expendables 3 will no doubt satisfy fans of the franchise for its star names and brash action. Any further films need to remember the comedy, and offer a more gripping story.

Film Review: Machete Kills

Machete Kills is an enjoyable follow up to Robert Rodriguez’s 2010 hit. The film focuses on the absurd; an aspect that entertains throughout.

Ex-Federale Machete is hired by no less than the American president himself for a critical mission. Machete needs to find arms dealer Mandez before he launches a weapon that could have catastrophic consequences…

Machete Kills continues soon after the first film ends, but swiftly takes a detour in terms of narrative. Whereas Machete had its silly moments, but more serious themes at play, Machete Kills embraces a farcical James Bond-esque plot, pitting Machete as the unlikely saviour.

The film takes on a more absurd edge than its predecessor, but this is what makes the film so entertaining. The plot lurches from silly to absurd, taking the audience along with it for the ride.

Machete Kills taps into the ‘Mexploitation’ vibe more effectively than the original film. There are moments that have a real 1970s feel to them, and the film instils B movie values. The preview at the beginning of the film as an amusing touch, and one that harks back to the Machete character’s origins.

This sequel also features females in prominent roles. Whilst these characters might be fiesty and trigger-happy, their power is negated by the choice of attire. Although this could be seen as replicating the type of film that Machete Kills pastiches, it is a shame that the main female characters are not a little more progressive.

More so than its predecessor, there is stunt casting galore in Machete Kills. This comes in the form of Charlie Sheen as US president, and roles for Mel Gibson and Lady Gaga. Elsewhere, Danny Trejo reprises his role well, while Amber Heard and Demian Bichir seem to be having fun.

Machete Kills should satisfy fans of the first film, as well as appealing to those with a taste for the absurd.