Kidman could finally be back to fine form

I don't know about you, but Nicole Kidman to me has not had a decent movie in a long time (and I couldn't even tell you a movie of hers I have enjoyed in recent years). I have to admit she has played some interesting and bold choices for her career. I mean I love The Others, and thought she was being held back in acting when she was fantastic in To Die For, but other than that I am not a fan. I know, I know everyone loved Moulin Rouge and she won the Oscar for The Hours (which I thought Julianne Moore and Meryl were the real stars of that movie) but I just don't feel much attraction to a movie when I see her name. That is why it is so surprising that when I saw the trailer for her new movie, I actually thought finally she looks like her face moves for one, and that she has selected material that will test her as an actress and show that yes she has got talent. The movie is called "Rabbit Hole" and along side Nicole Kidman stars the amazing (and under appreciated) Aaron Eckhert (he's one of my favs, but haven't cared for his choice in movies since Dark Knight) and the always fantastic Dianne Weist (funniest thing about the movie Parenthood) who always brings something special to her movies. The movie is about Becca and Howie Corbett who are about to face their biggest challenge as a couple, as they deal with the death of their young son in a car accident which takes this couple down a downward spiral of emotions, tearing at both their marriage and their sanity. Based on a Pulitzer Prize winning play, you know this is going to be very heavy, but also very well done. I for one was moved in the trailer so I'm just wondering how emotional tearing this movie is going to be. Let me just say it looks heavy, but also a very intriguing and a very moving performance from Ms Kidman. I feel we might even see this being thrown around when Oscar season is upon us. I for one will be checking this out. Rabbit Hole opens next year.

Pixar what were you thinking?

Okay I don't know about you but I am a huge fan of Pixar and the movies they produce. I mean Toy Story 3 is everything an animated movie should be. There is no denying that it holds the torch to which every other animated movie should strive to be. The people at Pixar are amazing filmmakers in my mind. So with a string of successful movies including The Incredibles, Up, and Monsters Inc. to just name a few, why on earth would they choose a movie that only anyone under eight enjoyed for their next foray into the animated world? Yes I am taking about "Cars." (I know you should be screaming at what a tragedy it is for this stupid animated movie to get a sequel). Out of all them to continue the great stories they choose Cars. Cars in my mind is one of the worst movies that the studio has brought out. Not one person I have ever talked to has said that Cars was up there as a favourite by Pixar of theirs (with many people including myself turning it off and not even bothering to see it at the cinema). I crave the Pixar movie when it comes out because you know what to expect. An amazing movie, which pushes both the visual and emotional buttons for an audience. But why would Pixar do this? Why not follow through and create a whole new movie, with new fun characters like Mike and Sully, Mr Incredible, Woody and Buzz, or even Dori why go for a sequel? Don't tell me Pixar has already run out of original ideas? I come to expect huge things from them. I mean for a movie company that only brings out one movie a year (but usually that one movie makes a gazillion dollars thats how good they are) they need to be careful what they chose to bring out as that one movie a year will determine if they still got it, or are finally going to see their first flop (which I really hope not, but I can already tell you, I'm not seeing this movie.) Without a movie that will appeal to a larger demographic than eight year old boys, I feel Cars 2 could be a major disappointment to Pixar fans and the box-office when it is released next year. Come on guys lift your game in 2012 and come up with an original and bring back the fun of Pixar. Just please see a therapist first, as you may have gone a bit crazy thinking that Toy Story 3 should be followed up with Cars 2. Whatever was in the water at your studio that day, I would get rid of it fast (and the person who suggested it). Not a smart move at all. Not a smart move AT ALL.

Is Showing 20 Minutes Of A Movie The Newest Marketing Invention To Get Your Butt On A Cinema Seat?

When movies want to market themselves we have the usual tactics. Cinemas are sent posters, flyer's even movie ticket to use for advance screenings of their movie. The studios spend money on a hot trailer that they hope will make the audience stand up and take notice. But is this still working? With so many movies coming to a cinema near you every week, (we are talking about 4 new ones every week) how are the big studios supposed to stand a chance and make their movie a huge box office achievement? Sure you could add 3D and charge more money and therefore try and increase profit, but a few studios are taking it to the next level. It all started last year when people were treated (if they got in early) to sit down in a cinema and watch the first snippets of James Cameron's Avatar. They were shown what this hyped up new James Cameron movie was all about. And we know the final result of that movie. It became the biggest movie of all time. But Disney has decided to give it a try by showing 20 minutes of their huge new holiday movie, "Tron Legacy." They are giving away tickets to actually sit in a cinema and watch the first 20 minutes of the movie. The movie will not hit screens until December, but will this taste make people want to see the rest of the movie, or will it do the opposite and turn off moviegoers from seeing the film? I for one would have a huge problem with watching 20 minutes of the movie and not seeing the end. I mean if its good then I have to wait another two months to see the finished product and I know I wouldn't be the only one (trust me I really want to see Tron Legacy, the movie looks kick ass). But hey it might just do the movie a huge favour and generate positive reviews making people rush to see it in December. Whichever way this may be the newest tactic to get your buck when those big blockbusters hit our screens every year. Tron Legacy open December 16 (Australia).

Could It Be Third Time's The Charm For Hilary?

How far would you go to help a family member who was accused of murder? Would you take it upon yourself due to lack of frustration from the legal system and become their lawyer? Well that is the new premise of two time Academy Award winner Hilary Swank (Million Dollar Baby, Boys Don't Cry) in her new movie "Conviction." Hilary stars as Betty Ann Waters who being a single mother puts her self through law school to help her brother (Sam Rockwell) and prove his innocence after being sentenced to jail for murder. These are the sort of movies that the Academy eats up and come next year may see another award  to add to Ms Swank's shelf as early buzz is giving her outstanding praise for her work. But it can only come as no surprise as this actress is talented. First in her gritty performance in Boys Don't Cry (trust me it takes thick skin to sit through that movie) but I feel her greatest role ever was when she stared in Clint Eastwoods amazing cinematic achievement of Million Dollar Baby. I have not found one person who hasn't loved that movie. Hilary has the goods and she knows great roles to prove this. Although veering off track with a few of her efforts (I'm looking at you The Black Dahlia) Hilary has always shown her talent. I for one will be checking this movie out. Hilary could become the first women in history to ever achieve three academy awards. Here's hoping history is good to Ms Swank.

The Social Network. Accept or Decline?

You all use it. You all click and add friends nearly every day. We all like to secretly spy on what our friends are doing. What am I talking about? If you hadn't already guessed it is the revolution of social networking. It is Facebook. One of the greatest inventions (and countless hours spent procrastinating at work, I mean what did we do before this invention) to ever be put online. Well you are not the only one who thinks this as Hollywood caught on and decided to do something about it. They knew they had to tell this story, cause it really has a lot to tell. It was not just a simple click in some computer laboratory, Facebook had many obstacles in it's way before it became the hugest thing to hit this world since the wheel. The Social Network gives the viewer a behind the scenes look from the humble beginnings to becoming a billion dollar empire. Trust me it may sound a little lame, but really it is one story you must watch. Let me begin.

In 2003, a young Harvard student named Mark Zuckerberg (Jesse Eisenberg) a bright IT student who after creating facematch a small interweb program on the Harvard server, is head hunted by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss (played both by the one actor Armie Hammer) to create a program they have been concocting called Harvard match. A web program that lets you connect with other Harvard grads. Instead, Mark decides to create his own version and think outside of Harvard and move onto other university campuses. As he starts working on what soon will be facebook, he soon decides to not continue with the program for the boys, but tells them he can not provide what they are asking. Later that same day, Facebook comes online and quickly spreads like fire. The boys are not happy and demand vengeance, taking Mr Zuckerberg to court for copyright. But it is not only Zuckerberg taking him to court, his co-founder Eduardo Saverin (Andrew Garfield) is suing him as well for shutting him out of Facebook as co-founder from the very beginning. Confused yet. Well don't be, Zuckerberg is being sued by two parties, with both playing before our eyes on screen.

The movie flashes back between the litigation room and the events surrounding Zuckerberg's journey with Facebook. From the beginning of an idea, through to watching it grow, to hiring more staff, to expanding the business when meeting with Napstar founder Sean Parker (Justin Timberlake, yes that Justin). But it's an exciting journey and one you will need to watch to believe.

David Fincher has definitely entered a new genre. Known for his more complex thrillers (Fight Club, Seven) he has entered the world of drama and created a face paced exciting thrill ride of this engaging story. Fincher delivers solid performances from his cast and a big mention goes to all the leads. Jesse Eisenberg once again proves he is an amazing talent. Stealing the show in movies like Zombieland and The Squid And The Whale, Eisenberg is amazing as the founder of Facebook. His mannerisms, movement, and delivery of lines made me believe he really was him. This is one kid who needs to be watched and I wouldn't be surprised if come Oscar time, he was nominated. Little known actor Andrew Garfield is amazing as the co-founder. He is also one to watch. But the real surprise was Justin Timberlake. Gone are the days of the boy band and onto the days where he may actually have a bit of the acting talent to make it in Hollywood. As Sean creator of Napstar he gives his all to cast off his music days and embrace this high octane drama. But let's not forget the screenplay written by Aaron Sorkin. Without it, this movie could have been dead boring, and could have been the movie of the week. Without Sorkin's words the actors would not prove how talented they all are and how amazing this story was to tell.

My only problem with this movie (and there is only a few) is that in some parts it dragged. Not many but just a few and seeing as though the movie was two and a half hours I think that's pretty good for a movie without the world blowing up, or a car chase. My only other problem is that it just ends. You need to see what I mean but I felt that it was leading up to something, then all of a sudden anticlimax. It's hard to describe so it is best you see it and judge for yourself.

All up, The Social Network is a fantastic movie. The acting, directing and screenplay is what hold this drama together. It is a superbly done in all departments. All should be extremely proud with the final results. The Social Network is for anyone who wants a smart drama or who just wants to know how the world changed by this social networking tool. And after you can tell the world what you thought on Facebook. Remember you couldn't do that at the start of this decade. Freaky huh? 9/10

Machete. One MotherF&^ker You Don't Want To Mess With

Three years ago Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarrantino decided to do something out of the norm for their next film project. They decided to collaborate and bring back the old school 1970's genre of exploitation films. With over the top acting, bad set pieces and exploiting women these were the bad "B" movies that these boys loved. So they brought back the genre with the double feature Grindhouse. Quentin decided to direct Death Proof while Robert went and did Planet Terror. Both excellent films (highly recommended people). They decided to make the whole thing like a night out with fake previews included between the two films. However, three years later Robert decided to take one of these fake trailers and since he is Robert Rodriguez and can make any movie due to his huge successful past films Sin City, Spy Kids and Dusk Till Dawn he can pretty much do anything. One of those fake previews was for "Machete" which is now a full feature and boasts an impressive cast. Danny Trejo stars as Machete a man who was double crossed and left for dead by the men who hired him. And that has made him pissed, very pissed. What comes next is brutal with the man being a natural with knives and what they can do (get why the movie is called Machete now, clever huh?). Along for the ride is an ensemble cast including Michelle (kick your ass if you look at me wrongly) Rodriguez, Jessica Alba, Lindsay Lohan (yes that Lindsay she actually got a job) Robert De Niro and even 80's action men Don Johnson and Steve Seagal are along for the ride. This movie looks crazy from the previews and I for one am a huge fan of Robert's. The man writes, produces, directs and even scores his own movies. Very talented indeed. Machete opens November 11 (Australia).

What If Mysterious Forces Were Controlling Our Life's Path?

Matt Damon has been picking some real interesting roles of late. When he is not being Jason Bourne and showing the new breed of secret agent, Matt has been seen in some different film roles. In the coming months he will star in Hereafter (already blogged about, check out previous entries for the rundown on that movie) and next year will bring a very different kind of thriller to the screens. What if our lives are already planned out and whenever we start to veer off course, mysterious forces or groups of people come along to place us on our predetermined path? Well that is the new synopsis of Matt Damon's new movie. In  "The Adjustment Bureau" Matt Damon stars as David a New York Politician who meets a ballerina by the name of Elise (Emily Blunt, finally a role that she might be able to prove that she is a talented actress) and falls for her. But Elise is not on his path in life and the bureau do what they do and place him back on the same path. However, David encounters her again and believes they already met, and realises something is going on here. Based on a short story by sci-fi legend Phillip K. Dick (Total Recall, Minority Report) this movie looks unlike your normal thrillers. Matt Damon looks like he may be able to pull of sci-fi thriller well and Emily Blunt is great in anything she does. Also staring John Slattery (Mad Men) and Terrance Stamp (Priscilla Queen of the Desert) this movie looks like Matt Damon might have another hit on his hands. The Adjustment Bureau opens March 2011 (Australia).

Paranormal Activity 2. Are You Ready For This?

I have to admit the first paranormal activity movie scared the crap out of me. Not many movies have done that. I can only think of this and the Blair Witch Project that used fear to scare the shit out of me. The use of hand held cameras made the whole thing seem more authentic and not actually seeing what these evil beings were made the whole thing scarier. Playing on one's fear is the greatest scare tactic invented. Jaws never revealed the monster till the end. In Psycho we never knew that it was Norman Bates dressed in women's clothing. People are scared more when they are not faced with the monster. Last year a little movie called Paranormal Activity made for only $10000 dollars made a killing at the box office and scared people senseless (if anyone disagrees with you they are definitely lying) telling the story about Katie and Micha and their adventure with the paranormal. The movie was so clever with using a hand held camera whilst tapping into fears of things that go bump in the night. I am not going to spoil the ending of the first one, but it's freaky. All I can say is I hope you are prepared for round two, cause it's out and waiting for you to go again, but this time it adds a new spin on the first one.

The sequel is actually set 60 days before the events of the first one (so none of the climax has actually happened from the first movie). Katie is still herself, and Micha is still alive (oops did I just spoil the first one sorry). Katie's sister has just had her son and has brought him home with her husband and stepdaughter. Katie and her sister are very tight, and have a secret from their past they are unwilling to let anyone else know about. However, they may want to keep it a secret, but the house and whatever else is in it doesn't. When the family come home to find their house broken into they go about setting up hidden camera's to keep an eye on their property. What they capture is not exactly criminal related. Katie's sister stars to hear things that go bump in the night. A pot drop, a toy move, a door slam. Sound familiar. Well it should, this is paranormal activity and what happens next is the start of the franchise that once again is going to make you jump and scream (as demonstrated by the girls in the row in front of me) .

The team behind the first one are back, however the direction has been placed in the hands of Tod Williams. With a bigger budget, the scares come big and fast. All the actors deliver the scares well, and with no musical score leading up to creepy encounters it lets the audience jump out of their seat and nearly pass out from waiting for the next scare to come. The new story is clever (and I won't spoil it here) and explains things a little more why the events in the first one actually are happening with Katie and Micha. The sound effects are what make these movies. It is amazing what loud noise can do to the senses to scare a person. A loud bang can make a whole audience jump and the director uses this to his advantage for great effect.

However, here is where the problems lie for Paranormal Activity 2. I felt like I have seen it all before in the first one. Don't get me wrong I still jumped out of my seat, as many of the scares are so well done once again, but it felt like I knew they were coming. The start is so long and drawn out, that the final 20 minutes is like one scare over and over and nearly gives you a heart attack instead of leading up to a climax as the first one did. I felt also sometimes like the actors were reading a script, while the first one seemed to flow a lot better. It felt a little repetitive and I would have liked to see it grow to a huge climax like the first one did. For a movie as well with a bigger budget, sometimes the effects really looked cheap and there are only so many times a door can slam shut that can actually scare the audience.

Let me put it this way, if you want to be scared like the first one then go see it. If you want to know why these things happen to this family, see it. And if you want to know what becomes of Katie go see it. But just don't expect to have the same feeling after you watch this one compared to the first. I must admit the first one I could probably never watch again, and even the cover gives me chills. With this one, the scares were there, but the cinema is where they stayed. I really wouldn't brag about this one as much as the first one, but I would recommend it over the other garbage that passes for scary movies these days. All I will say is that I wouldn't be surprised if the franchise had at least one more left in it. I for one would be interested if third time would be lucky and if they could deliver the scares once again. 7.5/10

The Rock Is Back Doing What He Does Best - Kickin' Some Ass

I have to admit I am a sucker for a big loud over the top action films. Die Hard, Terminator, anything with big explosions I am in. But the day of the 80's action star is well and truly over. But there is one action star who still tries and brings the old school charm back. I'm talking about Dwayne (The Rock, but don't call him that now, he is a serious actor) Johnson. Rocking us (pun intended people) in action movies such as Welcome To The Jungle, Scorpian King, Doom, Walking Tall, Dwayne brings the action hard and fast. And it is about time he comes back to his genre after awful, terrible and I will say shit crap family roles including the Tooth Fairy (what were you thinking) and The Game Plan. Someone explain to me why action stars think they should fair into family comedy (I'm looking at you Vin Diseal) it is just not right. Like socks with thongs, it should be illegal. But Dwayne is coming back to punch some bad guys in the face, break a few bones and drive a really cool car in his new movie "Faster." Faster tells the story of Driver (Dwayne) who after a double crossing which has resulted in brother's death, takes revenge on those who wronged him (I think I just peed a bit with excitement). You can just tell what is going to be instore. And I can't wait. The movie also stars Billy Bob Thornton, Maggie Grace, Carla Gugino, Jennifer Carpenter and Moon Bloodgood. I for one am going to be strapping myself in for this one. Welcome back Dwayne. Finally you have come to your senses. Faster opens early 2011 (Australia)

An Old Classic Gets The 2011 Treament

Okay first off, just so you know there is not going to be any dancing tea cups. No magical rose. No tunes coming out at inappropriate times making no sense to the story at all.This ain't no Disney movie. But hey this one will star a Olsen Twin so that's a plus. But it is taking a old story and making it come into 2011. The movie is "Beastly" and is going to show beauty and the beast in a whole different light. No longer will the beast be covered in fur, but will be covered in hideous scars. The movie will follow the life of Kyle, the hottest, popular rich kid who has had everything handed to him in life. One evening at a party a witch puts a curse on him (hello Mary-Kate Olsen are you being stereotyped here) and turns him into a disfigured guy who has to leave behind his old life due to his imperfections. What he finds out is that everyone was never his true friends anyway. Unless he gets a woman to fall in love with him, he will be this way forever (see it's a new spin, clever huh) The movie will star Alex Pettyfer (Stormbreaker) as Kyle (Beast if you like) and Vanessa Hudgens will cast off her High School Musical persona to play Linda (please don't feel the need to break out in song Vanessa). Also staring is Neil Patrick Harris and Peter Krause the movie will be out early next year. Just please no singing tea cups save us all.

Rachel's Back. FINALLY!!!

I am a huge fan of Mean Girl Regina George herself Rachel McAdams. Who doesn't love her? She is one of the most talented, beautiful actresses around (plus she has her head screwed on no late night partying for this girl). If you don't believe me check out her evil mean girl Regina in Mean Girls, or use a whole pack of tissues for the weepie epic that is The Notebook. But don't put the tissues away just yet with The Family Stone packing a gut wrenching performance as well from Ms McAdams. But don't think she is just romantic dramedies, Rachel can bring on the thrillers as well just check out State Of Play where she holds her own against the great Helen Mirren and Oscar Winner Russell Crow. Well Ms McAdams is going to be back in fine form come this holiday season with the release of her new movie, "Morning Glory." Rachel has to put in a damn fine performance as she is going to be up against some of the most talented actors around. Morning Glory also stars Indiana Jones himself Harrison Ford, her Family Stone co-star Diane Keaton the underrated Patrick Wilson, the excellent Jeff Goldblum and even rapper turned actor 50 Cent. The story will follow Rachael as producer Becky who is going to give it her all to make a morning program become a hit althought its two main anchors can not stand each other. Sounds like a comedy smash to me. Throwinto the mix the excellent direction of Roger Michell (Notting Hill) who knows a thing or two about comedy and Rachel may have a new hit on her hands. This is one program I will defintely be tuning in for. Morning Glory opens January 2011 (Australia).

Na Na Na Na Na Na Na BATMAN

Guess who is coming back to our screens one more time? You guessed it that tall dark caped crusader himself Batman, (everyone in the world just applauded). Yes it is true they have been giving the greenlight to go ahead with a new tale of the adventures of Batman. Well a cast has not been confirmed just yet, but the piece will once again be directed by the excellent and visionary director Christopher Nolan who helmed (and brought back from the dead) the first two movies. However, how do you top the billion dollar gross of the Dark Knight? Or a new actor as talented and great as the late Heath Ledger who stole the show as the Joker? Many are suggesting that it is going to be the Riddlers turn to shine as the villain of this piece. However, fans like myself are praying that he will bring back Catwoman with her raw sexuality and killer instinct as a possible villain/lover for the Dark Knight. Rumours are swirling that all the original cast will be back including Christian Bale, Michale Caine (love him), Morgan Freeman and Gary Oldman (so talented, yet so underrated). I for one can not wait for this film. It will be very interested where Mr Nolan will take this one. Where does one go after such a huge success of his last Batman? Will it be third time lucky? Only time will tell when the new Batman film opens in 2012. I for one will be checking this out.

Zombies Get The 3D Treatment. But Was It Worth It?

I have to admit I have always had a soft spot for the Resident Evil movies. From the very first installment in 2002 which brought the video game adaption to life, I knew a new franchise had evolved and if done right, like the video games could have endless possibilities. And possibilities they have had. The adventures have followed a deadly t-virus unleashed by an evil corporation infected the citizens of the world and have turned them into zombies. The franchise has now spawned three sequels, with the newest one "Resident Evil:Afterlife" hitting theatres today. I have just finished watching it and here is my verdict, but firstly let me give you a rundown.

Alice is back. And from the last installment told you that she was going to be bringing a group of friends.  Alice for those who don't know from the very first movie has been the subject of the Umbrella corporation and has been wanting to bring this underground company down for all the movies. This time Alice is once again trying to bring the company down but is going to bring a few friends with her. In the last installment, Alice found a survival guide which would lead her and her team of survivors to Alaska where they would find refuge. However, that is not the case. What she finds is a baron land that is not inhabited by anyone, except her old allie Claire Redfield (Ali Larter) who has no memory as to what has happened to the rest of her crew . From there they journey back to America down the east coast trying to find any form of survivors. What they encounter is LA filled with the undead, but come across a bunch of people trying to get to Arcadia which is located in the ocean off the coast of LA including Claire's brother Chris Redfield (Wentworth Miller). But this is not going to be easy with most of the population infected with the virus and with the umbrella corporation headed by the evil Albert Wesker hot on their tails. With guns and weapons a plenty, the gang is going to make this one action packed adventure to get to there refuge on Acardia.

Paul W.S Anderson is back again writing and directing this fourth installment of the series. Paul directed the first one, but has stayed on as producer of both the sequels. This time he is going to bring something new to the table. Not only is he back directing, but has the created the entire movie in 3D using the same technology as James Cameron did for Avatar and he pulls it off nicely. He brings it back to what he originally created though with a few scares, action galore, gore, and awesome heart pumping action scenes. The first fifteen minutes of this movie is heart pounding action and needs to be seen on the big screen. Not once do you want to go to the bathroom as the action comes hard and fast with the 3D used to great effect to let the viewer feel each bullet and action moves this kick-ass chick can delve out.

Milla is back to great form as Alice as usual. She has made this character her own and is definitely going to be remembered for her role in this franchise. She literally kicks-ass with her bad ass moves and take charge attitude. We witness though her relentless quest for peace and see the desperation in her eyes to make it there. Ali Larter gives Milla a run for her money in the tough girl role. She takes charge and alone with the nice addition of her brother (Wentworth Miller) are two characters that I welcomed with open arms to this film.

But now here is what I had a problem with, and don't get me wrong I liked this movie, I just didn't love it as much as I wanted too. Firstly, with such a great opening sequence it was going to be hard to keep the adrenaline pumping for this to continue. And this is exactly what happened. There is a great lull in the time Alice leaves Tokyo to the time she finds the remaining survivors and as my friend pointed out, they wish they could have hurried to the boat. It sorted seemed like Anderson used up all his clever action pieces in the first fifteen minutes. Don't get me wrong there are some cool action scenes in the film, but none pop like the first one. Some things are not explained as in how zombies evolved, what the things were that have transformed citizens into slaves and how many of the survivors actually escaped the disease. These kinda irritated me as a simple one line could have cleared all this up.

I have to admit this movie did not hold up as well as I would have liked. As a lover of number one and three (I didn't care for number two at all, in my mind it doesn't exist it was so sloppy) this easily fails in comparison. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed it, but something was missing that existed in the other two. It might be that it has become to futuristic now or maybe it was the 3D which destroyed the mood of the piece, but as an action film it held its own well, but as a zombie action resident evil franchise it just didn't at all. Paul W.S Anderson has done a great job of directing his pet project, and Milla keeps the flame alive as Alice, but with the news that a fifth one is now in the works, maybe it is time to have a look at the first installment and see why so many people still find this one the best out of the whole quadrilogy. For any fan of the franchise, I say yes you need to see this one to compare and enjoy the gang once again back together kicking zombie butt. But as a newbie who may be unfamiliar with the franchise I say start at number one and enjoy what made  this series so enjoyable and a guilty pleasure. Resident Evil:Afterlife 7/10

Eat,Pray,Love. A Wonderful Journey If You Let It In

I have just finished seeing Eat,Pray,Love and I must say I was very impressed. Yes I did my research of other reviewers and to me I think many of them missed the entire point of the movie. This movie is not setting out to become Oscar material. This is a real person's journey brought to screen. No they didn't bring down a huge corporation, or solve world hunger, or even become President. This is the story about a real women's journey to find her inner happiness that shelongs for (like many of us do, I don't care what you say everyone does, no one wants to be miserable in this world). To those reviewers, I ask them to take the challenge and see it again, and for you the reader, I am going to give my point of view that I think you will probably enjoy this movie for what it is. A journey to see the lengths one person went in order to embrace the person they once were. Let me begin.

Based on the hugely successful autobiographical novel, "Eat,Pray,Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert and now converted to the big screen by director Ryan Murphy and staring the fantastic Julia Roberts, Eat Pray Love tells the story of Liz a woman who believes something is missing from her life. From the age of 15, she has either been in and out of relationships and has forgotten the important things that matter to her, that create her. On an assignment (she is a writer by the way) she is told by an elderly medicine man in Bali that she will have one short and one long romance, she will lose all her money, but get it back and that she will come back to Bali to teach him English. This implants the seed in her mind as one day (6 months later) she breaks down and asks God for a sign of what she should do. It turns out it is to divorce her husband (Billy Crudup) and move on with her own goals in life. However, Liz follows her same pattern in life and tries to find her joy in her rebound guy David (James Franco), when it suddenly dawns on her, she must leave and find out what truly makes her happy and what path she needs to follow in order to get there. So for one year of her life she is going to spend four months in Italy (Eat), four months in India (Pray) and four months in Bali (Love).  This is when the movie hits it's charm and allows the audience to escape with Liz on her quest for freedom and happiness. I am not going to say anymore, but the journey is a great one.

Ryan Murphy has done a great job in my opinion converting this hugely popular and successful book to the screen. Although Ryan did bring another great novel Running With Scissors (rent it, it's fantastic) to the big screen so he knows what he is doing. Although, like Running With Scissors, Ryan has been criticised for missing a lot of the emotion in the books, but come on, you are not going to please everyone. Books are our own imaging of the story. A movie is one person's interpretation of the words. We all can't have the same perspective, and to me, Ryan has delivered a solid movie. The scenery is beautifully shot, with each country showing its wonder and attraction and why this woman would want to visit these countries. Ryan moves the pace along nicely, showing each section of the story to be as important as the next, without chopping it up and favouring one storyline over the other. I feel the man has a great imagination and really has a way with his work (check out Glee if you don't believe me).

Now for the performances. I was very wary of Julia Roberts when I heard she was doing this movie. I have always had a soft spot for her with many of her movies in my top list, but Liz is a very complex character and needed to be an everyday person, and not an "A List: movie star. Julia hit the nail on the head, not once did I not believe her as Liz and to me, this was the performance to put her back on the acting map once again. Through her emotions and journey we feel every element of her character and want her to find her inner happiness. We want to embrace these countries with her and the characters she meets along the way. I say good work girl, stuff the critics who have criticised you, I for one think you were fantastic.

But Julia isn't the only one to take centre stage. A great supporting cast rounded out this movie extremely well. James Franco was once again proving his ability as a great actor as David. Viola Davies as her best friend, brings her witty and extremely scene stealing acting to the piece. Javier Bardem is the right ingredient to add to the mix as her new love interest, but to me it was Richard Jenkins once again proving to be a great assets to any movie. His relationship was one of the best with Julia in India. He brought so much character and liveliness, but with his own shame to the scenes that I couldn't get enough of him. This man is amazing.

The only downfall to me in this movie were two things. Billy Crudup as her ex husband who was just awful. I have never been a fan of his work, and to me it was just wrong casting. He was annoying and really I didn't feel he even wanted to be in this movie. The other was a scene with an elephant. I'm not going to spoil it, but I sorted went "what the?" in my head.

I think you can guess though if I liked this movie or not. I for one welcomed this story with open arms into my cinema experience. To me it was fantastic. The scenery, the directing, the acting. To be inspired by a movie is a rarity these days, but Eat Pray Love, proves just that. An ordinary woman on a quest for her happiness in life. Many may call it selfish. Others motivated. Let it in to your life and see what you think. You may be very surprised of what comes out. 8.5/10

Hate Your Boss? This Movie Is For You

We have all had a horrible boss. It doesn't matter what you say I know you are lying if you have not had one boss who you wished would just stop irritating you so much that you would love to just slap them. Well your dream is about to become reality, well in film anyway (ah cinema a way to fulfill our fantasies without hurting anyone. That is the new concept of the movie "Horrible Bosses" opening next year. But instead of slapping them, they are going to do a bit more than that. Three friends are about to do the unthinkable and murder their bosses in order to enjoy their life more and rid them of the stress they bring them. I know sounds a bit dark, but remember it is a comedy. The movie will star Jennifer (let's hope this is a success for her sake as well as ours) Aniston, the hilarious Jason Bateman (Juno), Colin (where you been lately buddy) Farrell, Jamie Foxx (Ray), Kevin Spacey (American Beauty), Julie Brown (Modern Family) and Donald Sutherland. Directed by Seth Gordon (Four Christmas') the ensemble cast look like they may just make this work. We have a very talented group of comedic actors here who will hopefully deliver the goods as they have proven in numerous roles (yes even Ms Aniston, remember she was pretty funny as Rachael Green in Friends, admit it you laughed at her). Otherwise, we might want to murder the filmmaker for making such a crap piece of film. Let's hope not as I for one will be lining up for this one.

Heeeerrrrrreeee'ssss Johnny

Jack Nicholson is the man. I don't care what anyone says, the man is a character and the greatest actor on the planet. I know big call right, but come on, everyone of his movies is a huge success. He has the goods to back it up winning three academy awards, and having more memorable roles than any other actor. So why am I talking about Jack? Well Jack will soon becoming back to the big screen real soon (thank you lord). Tha man is very good at choosing his roles, and unlike some over the hill actors (I'm looking at you De Niro) does not have to fill his acting resume with crap roles. Well Jack is back with a few friends and an old directing allie. Jack will nexxt be seen in "How Do You Know." Writen and directed by James L. Brooks who helped Nicholson grab his second and third academy awards (Terms of Endearment, As Good As It Gets) the duo are back for a third outing. Jack is sure to steal the show, but he has some great company with him this time. Reese Witherspoon, Owen Wilson and the very talented (and underrated) Paul Rudd. Reese plays Lisa who being a former athlete is torn between her current baseball pro boyfriend or fall for the business guy she once knew. I know doesn't sound to different to many other movies out there at the moment, but Jack and the rest of the cast will be able to lift this above the material given to them. And with his old buddy director James L. Brooks it is sure to be witty and entertaining. Let's just hope that it doesn't go down the same path as James' last movie Spanglish. Spanglish should be spanish for sucktacular. Let's hope you learned from that film Mr Brooks. How Do You Know opens early 2011 (Australia)

In Three Days What Will You Do? For Russell Crowe He Is About To Take On The Mission Of His Life

The question is simple? In three days what do you think you would get up to? For me, I see work. I see gym. I see writing on Facebook and doing this blog. Not that eventful, but hey, it's what I would be doing for the next three days. For Russell Crowe though, in three days he has to resuce his wife who has been accussed of murder before she is put away. Not for real, in his new movie (geez people remember this is about movies not current events). The movie is called "The Next Three Days." And it looks like after a string of so so movies at the box office, Crowe may finally be back in the game as the movie star he deserves to be. I must admit I am a bit of a fan of the Crowe man. There is something about his prescence on film, that can lift a movie out of it's simplicity. I don't care about the phone throwing incident, or his temper on set (who cares) what he brings to film is something else entirely. Anyway, the movie has all the neccesities to be a hit. Paul Haggis the exceptional screenwrite and director of such movies as the Oscar Winning Crash and who wrote the Oscar Winning Million Dollar Baby (Oscar, Oscar the dude is great) and brought back the Bond franchise in both Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace (didn't care much for that one) is behind this one as well as both writer and director. Also staring the underrated Elizabeth Banks (see W or Zach and Miri Make A Porno) as his wife, the exceptional Liam Neeson and Olivia Wilde (House) this movie looks like it could shape up to be one very smart thriller. Either that or it may fall out of the box office faster than the 72 hours Russell has to save his wife. I think though with all the talent it may be a sure fire winner. The Next Three Days opens January 2011 (Australia).

A Vampire Movie With A Difference

Last night I was able to see a preview screening of the new vampire tale with a huge difference than the sparkly crap that is out at the moment (I think you can guess what series I am talking about). The movie is called "Let Me In" and let me say I did allow this movie to enter into my mind, and for some reason this morning I am still thinking about it. This movie is taking back the vampire franchise with a vengeance. Finally, we get to witness the horror of these creatures as well as the strong innocence that torments them inside due to their wicked ways. I must admit this movie is not at all what I expected and seemed to suppress my expectations. Let me begin.

Let Me In is based on the 2008 Swedish film "Let The Right One In." I have not seen the first one so I can not compare the two, but let me say this one alone really proves that with exceptional child actors (and I can't stress this enough) a very engaging screenplay, and a director who knows how to switch it up from extreme violence, to feelings of lost youth you have a real winner. The story follows Owen (Aussie actor Kodi Smit-McPhee) who lives with his mother in an apartment complex. Mum is a God following alcoholic who has just separated from her husband. Owen is bullied by three boys at school and he constantly envisions himself fighting back. One night though he notices that someone is moving in next door. He sees an older man as well as a young 12 year old girl move into the apartment beside his. One night, Owen is sitting on the playground when a young girl approaches him. Her name is Abby (the amazingly talented Chloe Moretz) and she is the young girl who has moved in next door to Owen. Owen starts to make conversations and finds out that Abby is living with her guardian (Richard Jenkins). But Abby has a secret. She warns Owen to stay away from her. Abby is indeed a vampire. It isn't long though that Abby befriends Owen and starts to allow him to understand what she really is. A blood lusting vampire caught in the innocent body of a 12 year old girl, who is about to bring violence to this small remote town.  I'm not going to tell you anymore as I don't want to give anything away.

This movie intrigued me. I have to admit at the start this movie was extremely slow. Like very slow. I myself was having doubts about this film, if I was going to fall asleep instead of seeing one of the best vampire movies I have seen, (trust me stick around) The director Matt Reeves second feature (after Cloverfield) is a slightly smaller scale piece, but he pulls it off extremely well. He lets the audience understand the characters before he launches into brutal violent scenes to show the extreme horror this creature will bring to the town. (I must warn you it has some extremely violent scenes). What worked the best though was the chemistry between the two child actors Chloe Moretz and Kodi Smit-McPhee. I don't know where these two child actors came from, but their acting skills are exceptional. I can not say enough about Chloe. She, to me, is becoming the new actress that every director should cast. The girl knows her talent and I feel she could be the next Meryl Streep. I know big call, but this kid is the reason her movies work. Take for instance 500 Days Of Summer, Chloe stole the show. Kick-Ass, Chloe as Hit-Girl was the best thing about it. The girl is extremely good at what she does. Her take on Abby is brilliant. One minute she can seduce you into thinking she is innocent and misunderstood. The next you witness her terror as this killing machine and think to yourself, I can't believe I actually care for her, but she is a killer. Only talent can prove that.

Let Me In brings to the table a new take on the vampire craze. Finally, we get to witness a film that allows us to understand the tormented nature of this creatures instead of making a joke of the characters (I'm looking at you Robert Patterson). Do we like them? Do we hate them? Only a terrific cast, exceptionally director and a screenplay that doesn't relies on CGI effects to capture an audiences attention can prove a winner. For anyone who wants to witness a thinking person's vampire fable I can not recommend sinking your teeth (pun intended) enough into this movie. Highly recommended. 8/10

Could It Be Fourth Time Lucky?

There is a new movie coming out that could become a surprise hit and maybe even start a new franchise. The movie is called, "I AM NUMBER FOUR." Staring Alex Pettyfer as Number Four (don't worry I didn't know who he was either but he was in movies such as Stormbreaker and Wild Child) as well as Glee girl herself Dianna Argon, Timothly Olphant (Gone In 60 Seconds), Kevin Durand (Robin-Hood) and aussie girl herself Terresa Palmer. Okay the premise of the story is that Alex stars as Number Four who is a normal guy trying to blend into life in high school. However, he is not like everyone else he possesses super human power and apparently is next in line to be destoryed after the first three of the same breed have been killed (now do you get the title? Pretty clever) Number Four along with Sarah (Dianna) must escape the evil enemies out to capture and finish him off. Okay okay, it may sound a bit lame, but I was surprised after I checked out the trailer, it actually looked kinda cool. And with D.J Caruso who gave Shia Le Beouf his big break in Disturbia as well as the awesome thriller Eagle Eye I think DJ knows a thing or two about action and making a simple story come alive on screen. Who knows this may be the beginning of a new franchise. But the only thing that may be a bit off putting for this movie is they said the same thing about Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief earlier this year and it tanked majorly with critics and audiences. I guess the studios are really looking for the new Harry Potter. I don't know if I Am Number Four will live up to that but hey give it a chance. Otherwise I guess it can always go into the bargain bin with the rest of the new franchise wannabes. I Am Number Four opens early 2011.

Spider-Man, Spider-Man They Already Are Reinventing Spider-Man

If you haven't already heard Spider-Man is already getting the overhaul. I know right, fast. Didn't the last one only come out in 2007? Don't they usually reinvent a franchise after a fair bit of time (e.g. Batman)? Nope not Sony. So what is up Sony, why the sudden need to change up the old Spidey? Could it have something to do with number three not raking in as much as the others at the box office? Or could it be that it was just so plain confusing and so many story lines packed into two hours that you were not happy with? Well apparently so, as everyone has been fired and replaced. No more Toby, Kirsten, James, or director Sam Raimi. I mean I don't understand why they are getting rid of everyone. Sam didn't exactly put nipples on the spidey suit like Joel Schmacher did in the destruction of the Batman suit in Batman and Robin (poor George lucky at least his career kept going after that movie). Anyway, I guess it's on to bigger and better ways to reinvent (even though it was only 2007, I know I still can't get my head around it)the franchise.I mean it still made over $330 0000 million dollars but hey that's apparently a flop for Sony (I guess someone was smoking crack that day). Anyway, lets move on. The good news is that casting has got underway and it looks like they are going for a big unknown actor for Peter (big gamble Sony, but it did pay off for Tobey) and have selected Andrew Garfield. I know I had know idea either who he was. He is currently in the Social Network, but other than that not that much. But the only thing that has caught my interest in this remake is the fact that Gwen Stacey is being rumoured to be given to the talented and just plain perfect red head herself Emma Stone. Emma is brilliant and definitely deserves this big role. The chick carried Easy A (still out everyone and highly recommend it) and will totally kick-ass as Gwen Stacey. Good luck Emma. And good luck Sony, let's hope you have done the right thing and do not sink the franchise like poor Joel. Poor Joel haven't heard from him in a while, I guess nipples on a Batsuit is not the smartest move you could have made. Spider Man is expected to swing into cinemas 2012.

Holmes May Actually Pull This One Off

I have to admit I am not a fan of Katie Holmes at all. I have never thought she was an engaging actress (and I am just going to steer clear of the whole Tom Cruise marriage thing). The studios have also decided this as she was replaced by Maggie (much better actress) in the Dark Knight, for the role that Katie first played in Batman Begins. You may remember about a year ago the big circus that surrounded her and her husband coming to Melbourne where Katie was filming her new film. That film has now been finished and lets just say she may actually pull this one off. Katie probably did a bit of research and realised that a movie written by Oscar Winner (and a master of vision in my opinion) Guillermo del Toro would be a sure fire winner. Guillermo is the man responsible for making Wesley Snipes cool in Blade. Scared audiences with Pan's Layrinth (exceptional movie) and made a hero out of a beast from hell in Hellboy. So what is the movie I am talking about. It's called "Don't be afraid of the dark," and let me say I think you will be after seeing the trailer. The movie sees a young girl go to live with her father and his new partner in a creepy old house (aren't they always). But what she doesn't know is that creatures are trying to steal her and make her their own. It sounds freakier than I am describing. Also staring Guy Pearce, Alan Dale, and Jack Thompson the movie looks set to bring another creepy child/monster movie to the genre. But given del Toro's track record in producing exceptional cool movies, this one is sure to add to the mix. Katie, you may be kissing del Toro's ass after this movie if it does well, cause he may have given your career the kick in it's ass it has needed in a long time. Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark opens March 2011 (Australia).

Not Another Remake. But The Brand Will Definitely Be Able To Save This One

I have to admit I am a huge fan of the the Brand. I am talking about the one and only Russell Brand. Russell was already a bit of a comic genius in his hometown of the UK, but it wasn't until he came out of nowhere and stole the show in Forgetting Sarah Marshall as Aldous Snow the crazy rocker from the UK that he really hit a new bunch of fans.You ask anyone what they remember about that movie and I bet Russell pops into their head first. And it wasn't only his newcomers who took notice, the studios new they had a new comedy pro who could make fans love him once more as Aldous as the greenlit his own movie earlier this year titled Get Him To The Greek. But I'm not here to talk about a movie that has already been released but wanted you to know about Russell bringing a classic 80's comedy and doing his Russell thing in the remake. The movie I am talking about is "Arthur." In the original 1981 film staring Dudley Moore and Liza Minnelli, Dudley played Arthur who must fall in love with the woman his family have already assigned to marry him in order to secure his huge inheritance. However, he falls for the free spirited Linda (Liza). Does he lose the money or lose the girl? Well, it's now 2011 (that's when it's coming out I haven't jumped ahead in time, I don't have a Delorian) and now they are remaking it. This time though the movie will star Dame Helen Mirren (what can't this lady do) as his trustee butler and confidant. Jennifer Garner as the girl he is meant to marry. Greta Gerwig as Linda and Nick Nolte. Russell will definitely be able to pull this off. The man is a very clever comedian. I for one will be wanting to see Rusell. But word of advice Russell. Stick to this kind of comedy and never ever again please do a role like you did in Bedtime Stories (painfully awful) Bring on Arthur I say.

Everybody Is About To Be Kung Fu Fighting Again

A few years back an animated movie came out that packed a big punch and made the critics stand up and take note that not only Pixar could develop a movie that could touch, inspire and seriously have some kick ass action sequences. The movie was Kung Fu Panda which not only proved a success financial as well as critically, but has made Dreamworks take note and greenlit a sequel to this martial arts franchise. The first movie (and I urge you to rent it, it's really well done) tells the story of Po (voiced by Jack Black) who is not  the likely candidate to become the chosen dragon warrior who will join the already pack of the Furious Five which includes Tigress (Angelina Jolie), Monkey (Jackie Chan) Mantis (Seth Rogan) Viper (Lucy Lui) and Crane (David Cross). The furious five are trained by their master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) who have been assigned the challenge to capture one of his past students who has gone rogue Tai Lung (Ian McShane). I'm not going to spoil anymore for you, but rent it, its really clever and the imagery is stunning. Anyway, lets get back to the sequel coming out next year. The sequel will see the return of all the same characters on a new adventure. No details have been given yet, but I can let you know that an impressive league of new actors will have voice credits on this one. Gary Oldman, James Woods, Victor Garber, Michelle Yeoh and even 80's action man himself Jean Claude Van Damme (yippee he got a paying job good for you Jean) will join the cast. Hopefully the new one will pack a punch just like its predecessor cause I for one am looking forward to seeing some more moves from these bunch of heroes. Bring it on I say. Kung Fu Panda will be released midway through next year.

Two Co-Stars Try Again For Love And This Time He Isn't Lusting After A Cowboy

Remember Brokeback Mountain the movie that made lovers out of its two male leads and brought the love of two cowboys out in the open? The movie where (in my opinion) the women of the movie stole the show more than the men? In that movie Jake Gyllenhaal and Anne Hathaway played husband and wife coping with this circumstance in their relationship. But it appears there is no cowboys in this movie, or no long winded Ang Lee screenplay but just plain old fashioned man falling for woman love story(well from the brief this is the story, but you never know one of them could fall for the same-sex I'm just saying). Once again these two are teaming up for a new movie titled "Love and Other Drugs" directed by Edward Zwick (Blood Diamond, Legends of the Fall). Hathaway plays Maggie a woman who wants everything in her life and will let nothing get in her way to achieve this. Then one day she meets Jaime who makes her crave the one drug she can't resist (can you guess what it is?) Yes it's LOVE. I know I know sounds a little cheesy in my books as well. Isn't every romantic movie about finding love? But I must admit I love Ms Hathaway. From her performance as Andy in The Devil Wears Prada to her gritty performance in the fantastic (and definitely under rated) movie Rachel Getting Married, Hathaway can handle any challenge in her movie roles (and is starting to become a great performer, just look beyond Princess Diaries and you will see what I am talking about). Gyllenhaal on the other hand has never caught my interest. I feel his career was going strong after Donnie Darko but of late his is not really impressing (and I think his sister is the more talented one, I'm just saying) I have to admit I probably will see this movie, but don't get me wrong, I might need some drugs to stop me falling alseep if they can't bring something new and original to the genre. Love And Other Drugs opens 26 December (Australia)