Previews: The Addams Family Trailer, Booksmart, More!

The Addams Family Trailer

A plethora of film-related goodness in this week’s preview of coming attractions, including The Addams Family trailer, Booksmart, My Spy and more…

The Addams Family trailer is here. This first look at the new animated film gives a taste of the humour we can expect. The voice cast for this latest iteration includes Oscar Isaac, Charlize Theron, and Chloë Grace Moretz. The Addams Family is set for release on 25th October 2019.

Booksmart Trailer

Booksmart is the directorial debut from Olivia Wilde. The film received critical acclaim on its premiere at SXSW in March. The comedy focuses on two high school friends, played by Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever. The cast also includes Jason Sudeikis and Lisa Kudrow. Booksmart is due to hit UK screens on 27th May 2019.

My Spy Trailer

Dave Bautista’s latest film is action comedy My Spy. The film is about a hardened CIA operative who is at the mercy of a young girl when sent undercover to surveil her family. The film also stars Ken Jeong and Chloe Coleman. My Spy is coming soon to UK cinemas.

The Corrupted Trailer

Here is the trailer for crime thriller The Corrupted. The film is set in East London, and is about a land grab that occurred following the Olympic Games. The Corrupted stars Sam Claflin, Timothy Spall, and Noel Clarke. The film is set for release on 3rd May 2019.

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile Trailer

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile tells the story of notorious serial killer Ted Bundy. The film focuses on Bundy and his relationship with single mother Liz. The film’s cast features Zac Efron and Lily Collins. Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile will be released in UK cinemas and on Sky Cinema on 3rd May 2019.

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.

Film Review: Denial

Mick Jackson’s Denial is a courtroom drama that offers a good script and superb performances from its leads.

Acclaimed writer and historian Deborah Lipstadt has just published her latest book, on the subject of Holocaust denial. Infamous Holocaust denier David Irving decides to bring a libel case against her in the UK courts. It is up to Deborah and her team to prove that the Holocaust happened…

Despite the action taking place seventeen years ago, Denial feels like a very contemporary film. Following the real life libel case brought by David Irving against Deborah Lipstadt, the issues which arise (the contention of truth, and alternative fact) feel very pertinent. Moreover, the antagonist bears some hallmarks of today’s malefactors.

The narrative focuses on the lead up to the lawsuit, and subsequent court case which occurred in 2000. The first section of the film sets the scene with ease, introducing the main players in a succinct manner. There is the necessary exposition, with the unfamiliarity of British law explained to both Deborah and the audience. The screenplay, by David Hare, excels in painting its characters in an authentic light. Deborah’s interaction, and indeed the friction in her law team, seems realistic. Moreover, as the film progresses, director Mick Jackson impresses both the importance of the case, and the impact it has on the main characters.

Denial delivers great performances from its two leads. Rachel Weisz is very convincing as Lipstadt, and delivers the emotional aspect of her character exceptionally well. Spall is fantastic as Irving, offering a compelling performance. Tom Wilkinson provides able support as Richard Rampton.

As much as it delves slightly into the horrors of the Holocaust, the film keeps the attention on the libel case. It is a better film for this; Denial concentrates instead on the importance of truth, and the consequences of alternative facts being given credence.

Denial is out on DVD on Monday 5th June 2017.

Film Review: Away

Director David Blair’s Away is an inviting drama, with great performances from its two leads. The film tells a sweet story, despite some harsh circumstances.

Runaway Ria is trying to get away from her past. Joseph is in a desperate mindset. Despite their differences, the pair form an unlikely friendship in the seaside town of Blackpool…

Directed by David Blair with a screenplay by Roger Hadfield, Away is a drama with accents of a mystery thriller. The narrative is littered with flashbacks which offer both exposition and character development. The central strand is the friendship between Ria and Joseph, and there are a number of themes at play. There are overt and more subtle references to fairy tales. There is also a overarching theme of confinement which effects both protagonists.

As the film features numerous flashbacks, viewers must wait to see the backstories of both protagonists. In the first third of the film, it is not always immediately clear whether a scene is a flashback or present day. This can be a little confusing to begin with, but the distinction is clearer later in the film. It appears the emphasis is on the burgeoning friendship, rather than focusing on a chronological narrative. The friendship between Ria and Joseph seems authentic, thanks to the performances and a decent script.

Away is set in Blackpool, and the town is a fitting backdrop for the action to unfold. Sometimes the setting is used as a stark contrast to proceedings; the colour and light diverge from the bleak histories of the characters. Other times (the shots of the calm sea, for example), the mood seems to compliment the foreground entirely. Juno Temple delivers a wholly convincing performance as Ria. Timothy Spall is also great as Joseph; his controlled performance allows Temple to shine. Hayley Squires is also good in a support role.

Although the conclusion may not quite satisfy, Away is nevertheless a rewarding watch.

Away is available on VOD on 8th May 2017. The film is released in cinemas on 12th May, and on DVD on 15th May 2017.

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.

Stuff To Look At

A veritable profusion of cinema-related goodness this week, with the new Tammy trailer, Under The Skin and Miss Piggy…

Tammy

Above is the first Tammy trailer. The comedy stars Melissa McCarthy, Susan Sarandon, Dan Aykroyd and Kathy Bates. Apparently, Susan Sarandon plays Melissa McCarthy’s grandmother. I’m not sure how this is possible, given how young Sarandon looks. Perhaps she is aged up. Tammy is due for release in UK cinemas on 4th July 2014.

Under The Skin

Here is the full UK trailer for science-fiction thriller Under The Skin. Directed by Jonathan Glazer and starring Scarlett Johansson the film has been receiving critical acclaim at its festival screenings. Under The Skin is released in UK cinemas on 14th march 2014.

The Love Punch

Pierce Brosnan and Emma Thompson star as an ex-husband and wife whose retirement fund is wiped out when their company is defrauded in The Love Punch. This comedy caper also stars Timothy Spall and Celia Imrie. The Love Punch hits UK screens on 18th April 2014.

Muppets Most Wanted

Miss Piggy looks resplendent. Her dress is designed by none other than Vivienne Westwood, who has also designed Miss Piggy’s key wardrobe for Muppets Most Wanted. The image above begs the question of whether Miss Piggy marries Kermit in the film. I wholeheartedly approve, particularly if Rowlf provides piano accompaniment. Muppets Most Wanted is released in cinemas on 28th March 2014.

Postman Pat: The Movie

Postman Pat can carry a tune?! This is apparently the case in the upcoming Postman Pat: The Movie. I am more interested, however, in the robots. And Jess of course. And the glimpse of robot Jess. Postman Pat: The Movie hits UK screens on 23rd May 2014.

Transformers: Age of Extinction

This teaser trailer has everything; Optimus Prime getting pumped with bullets, Marky Mark running around looking scared, Dinobots, and, erm, dragons. I’m sure more will be revealed as the release approaches. Transformers: Age of Extinction is due for release on 10th July 2014 in the UK.

The Legend of Hercules

This trailers is giving me shades of Gladiator and 300. Kellan Lutz plays the titular character in The Legend of Hercules. Having previously appeared in Immortals, Lutz is no stranger to ancient myth films. The Legend of Hercules is released in UK cinemas on 28th March 2014.

Yves Saint Laurent

Biopic Yves Saint Laurent looks slick, polished, and endlessly stylish. Pierre Niney stars as the young fashion designer who is catapulted to fame in the late 1950s. Yves Saint Laurent is released in UK cinemas on 21st March 2014.

Non-Stop

Liam Neeson has really carved out a niche as an abrasive but meritorious action hero of late. Non-Stop continues this trend, as the above clip from the movie illustrates. Also starring Julianne Moore and Lupita Nyong’o, Non-Stop hits UK screens on 28th February 2014.

The Grand Budapest Hotel

The Grand Budapest Hotel seems to be ticking all the boxes. Writer-director Wes Anderson is most admirable, and the cast, including the excellent Bill Murray, is enviable. Also, there’s a cat. The Grand Budapest Hotel is released in the UK on 7th March 2014.

Divergent

Based on the best-selling novel, Divergent stars Shailene Woodley, Miles Teller and Kate Winslet. The sci-fi film is set in a future where people are divided into factions based on their personality. Divergent hits UK screens on 4th April 2014.

G.B.F.

G.B.F. looks like a fun, high school-set comedy. The film is directed by Darren Stein, who helmed late nineties black comedy Jawbreaker. I’m hoping for the same kind of satirical style from G.B.F., which is released in cinemas on 21st March, and is available on demand on 22nd March 2014.

Film Review: Reuniting the Rubins

Reuniting the Rubins is one of the worst films released this year, to date. The film simply does not work on any level; the direction, script, performances and production values are all poor.

Lenny Rubin is about to set off on a dream cruise when he finds out his mother is ill. When Lenny goes to visit her, she requests that her son bring his whole family together as she would like a reunion before she passes away. Lenny reluctantly attempts to carry out his mother’s wish, trying to bring together her four quarreling grandchildren…

Director and writer Yoav Factor seems to have had an idea for a film, but has failed to develop it properly. The narrative needed to be more inspired, and the direction needed to bring something to the table. Too much time is spent of the fact that the family is fractured, and not enough on the how and the why of the situation.

The script is terribly poor. Jokes in Reuniting the Rubins fall embarrassingly short. The drama lacks any real emotion. The film features characters that function as caricatures rather than multi-dimensional players. There is a focus on Michael and Andie when they are the two blandest siblings of the four.

The Congo strand is as deficient as the main narrative. The trite ‘business is bad’ message is laboured, and grows tiresome quickly. Furthermore, for a film so concerned with Judaism, Reuniting the Rubins does nothing but offer a couple of stock characters – the Rabbi, the businessman and those that have rebelled. There does not seem to be an innate culture to the family, which may have at least made the film more interesting.

Reuniting the Rubins‘ production values are akin to that of a haphazard student film. There is a veneer of cheapness to the film, with visuals indicating a lack of quality. Shot choices are uninspired, with a real lack of attention to detail in the composition.

Timothy Spall is a great actor, but he seems miscast in the role of Lenny. James Callis overdoes his stereotype role,although it does seem likely that the script did not offer him much freedom in this respect. Honor Blackman offers an uneven performance as the family matriarch. She is seemingly well cast in this role, but is poor in more rousing moments.

The pacing of the film is off, just over ninety minutes feels three times as long thanks to the dire dialogue. Avoid Reuniting the Rubins at all costs.