With its recent 3D release I thought I’d mark my return to reviewing with a recap of the 90′s belter – Jurassic Park.
Surprised as many may be, before this past week the last time I saw the movie was back in 1993 in theatre at the tender age of 7 years of age. Possibly being the most immersive and awe-inspiring movie experiences in my entire life. The fact I haven’t seen the movie in its entirety for 20 years gave me slight reservations on how the effects, the performances and some of the film’s plot elements would hold up with time. Well, let’s face it – it’s all nonsense really, huh?
—– As the story goes – zillionaire genius, John Hammond, creates an attraction park boasting real-life dinosaurs. Which he has created through the gift of SCIENCE!!!. Inviting archaeologists, Neill and Dern, Jeff Goldblum, plus his two grandchildren to vet the park during a special tour. And all shit breaks loose.
The great thing about Jurassic Park is that it hits the notes so sweetly, it is simply pure unbridled and crazy entertainment from start to end. At a 2 hour running time, the opening half is an oddly well-matched combination of dread and wonder, as we are taken off the Pacific Coast into Costa Rica via air, captivated by the world Hammond has created. While still feeling the uncertainty of just how much a dangerous game he is playing. Spielberg pulls this off with his own unique sensibilities of creating a real experience that’s palpable and emotionally alluring.
The first appearance of a dinosaur in all its glory is one of the most memorable moments in cinematic history – as Sam Neill’s Grant and Laura Dern’s Sattler almost look catatonic as the prehistoric creatures come into view on their arrival at Isla Nublar – with Hammond’s immortal words “Welcome to Jurassic Park!” soon following. It’s something I think most people seeing this film for the first time would relate to. The stunning work on visual and practical effects were and still are breathtaking, further enhanced by high-definition technology used to transfer the film onto blu ray form. There are some sequences that look slightly off-key but it’s nothing prominent or note-worthy.
The only issues I have with Jurassic Park are to do with its characters – A combination of stereotypical khaki wearing buffs, an old man with a God-complex, the ever-warning maths whizz and a whole host of generic cannon fodder park workers.
Grant and Sattler, while appearing well-intended and passionate about Hammond’s miraculous creations, eventually become an almost reluctant childminder and a constantly wailing unnecessary female lead respectively. Grant, being the prominent of the two, is our eyes and ears of the film. But the obvious awkward undertones of his suggested fear of relationships seem to prove he’s not the generic dashing hero that you’d expect. This is further accentuated through his interaction with Lex and Tim, whom incidentally are probably my favourite characters from the entire movie. And are respectfully portrayed by the actors in the film’s more frantically and dramatically terrifying sequences.
Ellie Sattler, on the other hand, is borderline annoying, stupidly self-assured and rather insignificant for the films narrative other than to be the representation of, what I believe to be, Alan Grant’s personal insecurities. If the character was far more of significant value in the Crichton novel – then I guess it’s a faux pas on the part of the screenwriters. I just couldn’t find anything remarkably likeable or screen time worthy about the character.
Goldblum and Attenborough deliver the token gravitas-laden performances with some clunky and groan inducing dialogue, and questionable motivations. That’s both of them, by the way
Spielberg’s direction is spellbinding. With the looming shots of the island filling us with a sense of foreboding and wonder, to the iconic T-Rex attack shots, this is really a movie that he obviously felt close to his heart. So much passion and attention to detail is apparent here, and with a timeless score from John Williams – I was really swept in with a real adventure ‘feel’ – but I honestly found it lacked a little bit in the adventure side as it blossoms into a survival/thriller/monster movie after the first half. Perhaps it would fair better, in this context, by focussing more on the kids as central characters. Deviating away from the frights and scares – opting for a more classic Spielbergian piece. But this just a major nitpick on my part. The creatures look beautiful, the lighting gives the daytime scenes a lush vibrance and tender tone to the more ‘friendlier’ dinosaurs. While the evening sequences, casted over by heavy storms and minimalistic score up the ante in tension and terror as we come to meet the more less favourable inhabitants. Makes for gripping stuff!
So yes, the answer is Jurassic Park still holds up as one of the greatest pieces of modern cinema. It’s issues are more noticeable these days, but it has not lost that wonderful essence that made us fall in love with the film all those years ago.
As some of my followers will know – I am a ‘fairly regular’ participant in the Inglorious Bastnerds movie podcast hosted by Chris Byrne of CinemaTronix.co.uk. So far I’ve done a few and decided that it’d be great for the group and for Chris to give the podcast a little more exposure by sharing the wealth on here.
“YOUR MOVE, CREEP….. Wait, what?”
So this week host Chris, regularsRaghav,Ian and Allan – as well as guest Christopher and myself discussed our thoughts and opinions on the sci-fi cult classic ‘Total Recall’ starring ARRRNOLD(!). In addition, we talk about THAT‘Man Of Steel’ trailer, Jamie Foxx as Electro, the ‘Total Recall’ remake, ‘Olympus Has Fallen’, ‘Evil Dead’ and the critical darling – ‘Scary Movie 5′. Plus much, much more. There were some tech difficulties during recording, so don’t be alarmed by the robotic voices and awkward silences.
After ANOTHER extended absence, here’s 3 of the latest trailers on the circuit. Hugh Jackman continues to add more meat to the bones of his typecast career in X-Men sequel/sidequel – ‘The Wolverine’, ‘White House Down’ gets a trailer, and Steve Carell – fresh of the heels off the lukewarmly received ‘..Burt Wonderstone’, returns as Gru in ‘Despicable Me 2′
‘Despicable Me 2′ – Dirs. Coffin & Renaud
So, in all honesty. The first outing was a real surprise hit. And I actually ended up on the bandwagon quite a long while after release. I cited the release of similarly plotted movie, ‘Megamind’ (another animation about a super-villain turned good), to be a possible reason why it didn’t grab my attention any sooner. Still, a solid animated film and great fun for the littluns.
In the sequel, Gru (Carell) is recruited by a superhero group in order to stop a new super criminal (possibly Russell Brand)…… Gee, they couldn’t have been any more creative, could they?
‘White House Down’ – Dir. Roland Emmerich
Everyone’s favourite city destroyer returns to an old friend, to finish them off once and for all. Jamie Foxx stars as the Prez, while Channing Tatum does more ‘acting’ to divert people’s attentions from his stupidly sounding name. This smells like a steady, but mediocre outing from all involved. Not even the ominous quotations at the beginning of the trailer stirs me…… Another movie, by the name of ‘Olympus Has Fallen’ – is a blood relation.
‘The Wolverine’ – Dir. James Mangold
Yes, after leaving us for such a long, long, long time – Fox give us what we want… More Hugh Jackman as Wolverine. It’s hard to believe this role has been played by the man for almost 15 years.
I’d call for change, normally…. Though, I reckon this could be a great swansong for the partnership. But yeah, let someone else have a go, Hugh.
Been a little while since my last recap. So let’s make this a gooden! On the radar today is Star Trek sequel – ‘…Into Darkness’, M Night Shyamalan’s latest excuse, ‘After Earth’. And finally, the highly anticipated Superman film – ‘Man Of Steel’.
‘Star Trek Into Darkness’ – Dir. J.J Abrams
Much to speculate of course, and many will. But right off the bat I’ll say this is probably the one I’m holding out for next year. The standalone voiceover of the antagonist, whoever it may be, Benedict Cumberbatch, and escalating score really does build this one way way waaaay up. Great stuff. Draw your own conclusion at the trailer’s close.
‘After Earth’ – Dir. M. Night Shyamalan
Without question, this could easily be the biggest flop for next year. Haven’t we seen all this before??
‘Man Of Steel’ – Dir. Zack Snyder
Ok, Zack, I’m sold. Taking an enormous cue from producer Christopher Nolan, and a nuance that only could be attributed to the work of Terrence Malick – this retelling of the Superman origin could possibly surprise many. It’s not the most action packed of all trailers, but it goes more along the lines of building character and outlining what could be a very interesting and engaging screenplay. Cavill looks the part indeed, and we’re given brief glimpses of Lawrence Fishburne as Perry White, Amy Adams as Lois Lane, and Michael Shannon as the incomparable Zod! Check the fuck out!
One of the most captivating performers to emerge from the last 10 years, German/Irish actor Michael Fassbender is certainly proving his worth.
After his breakout performance in Zack Snyder’s graphic novel homo-erotic fest, ’300′, Fassbender began a working relationship with London artist/filmmaker Steve McQueen (not that one), and was critically acclaimed for his role as activist Bobby Sands in ‘Hunger’.
Since then, Mr Fassbender has undoubtedly become one of the most popular and sought after actors working in Hollywood.
My admiration for him stems from his ability to inhabit so many diverse and original characters. One that has been a huge testimony to this is his astounding portrayal of a sex addict in McQueen’s ‘Shame’. A film about a high-flyer working in New York that has an emotionally crippling form of hypersexuality, and engages in frequent acts of onanism and intercourse.
In the movie, his regimented lifestyle spirals out of control when his estranged sister, Sissy (Cary Mulligan), turns up on his doorstep. The most vivid turning point of the movie for me is at this point, where Fassbender’s character, Brandon, immediately begins to display signs of stress, aggravation and almost seething mental torment at the spanner his sister throws in to the works. Fassbender displays this with a conviction that is truly engaging – his uneasiness being a stark contrast to his behaviour around his co-workers, his friends and more predominantly with women. The character of Brandon, for me, is perhaps the most personal, insightful and beautifully performed role by the actor. It also has an incredible pay off.
Though his affinity with independent film has brought him much success. Fassbender has also made an extremely popular and easy transition into mainstream cinema. Last year, he starred as a young ‘Erik Lensherr’, delightfully preceded by Sir Ian McKellen, in the 60′s set comic-book movie, X-Men: First Class. This year, he featured in the lukewarm/fairly positively received ‘Prometheus’ as the android ‘David’.
In First Class, Fassbender oozes charm, danger and Bond-esque cool. Notably basing much of his performance on Sean Connery’s 007 and the overall aesthetic of Dr. No in many of his one-to-one scenes, not to mention disregarding Sir Ian’s performances of the character of Erik, and completely making it his own. It was a breath of fresh air to see such a well-known villain take on the role of the sympathetic, a man who could be a hero tragically fall that we, the audience, can so easily root for. And this was very much down to how Michael approached the character, his reasonings for his actions, his methods and his emotional turmoil.
Oddly enough, his most recent successful performance, in ‘Prometheus’ – is a completely different animal. His mysterious motives kept relatively in the dark for the duration of the movie is overshadowed by an obvious and unflattering form of self-possession. He teems with icy demeanour, and engages the other characters almost subjectively in parts. Fassbender plays this off with such an arrogance, and knowing, that it’s nearly impossible to not notice or appreciate the dedication he put into the character. Unquestionably the film’s saving grace in my opinion.
Of course, no actor can be without their stinkers, and Fassy in no exception, from the ‘promising on the outside’ ‘A Dangerous Method’, which I found utterly non-compelling and marred by a dire script. To the meathead favourite ’300′. But these are examples of the ill-conceived. Frankly, I see this man becoming one the greatest actors to ever grace the screen. 2012 may have been the year of Fassbender…. But let’s see how the next one pans out….
Skyfall is undoubtedly one of the biggest revelations of the year for me. Ignoring the reviews and opinions of the many users on Twitter – I went into this with a horrible taste in my mouth left by the sleep-inducing entry that was Quantum Of Solace. And with expectations low, i was conpletely won over.
By almost literally going back to basics, and learning from convoluted mess made by the last few Bond films, Sam Mendes has effectively brought the elements of vintage James Bond – and seamlessly integrated them into the modern broken and fallable incarnation of the spy.
Sure, this film is ‘big’, but it’s only in small doses, and does more than compensate. The action is story driven, and actually plays out for audience and character reaction. Something sorely misused and underplayed during previous films (sorry, Brosnan). The direction of action is steady, crisp and not rushed (unlike others) – which makes the film all the more enjoyable and doesn’t affect the run time negatively.
Daniel Craig’s Bond is a lost soul more than ever but it’s this dark, deep-rooted pain that encapsulates him that makes him probably the most interesting and connective Bond that we have seen on screen. The suave, sexy, cool facade is all there, however Craig conveys the apparent tumultuous internal conflicts of 007 quite effortlessly. He is far more comfortable in the role.
At the films opening we are diverted away from the quote on quote – typical Bond opener. As a shadowed Craig walks through a dimly lit walkway, eventually meeting the camera with his trademark icy blue stare. It’s instantly memorable and a testament to the old adage ‘less is more’ – and indeed it is.
Though the story is generally reminiscent in some parts to ‘Goldeneye’, the exposition clearly takes the motives of the film’s principal villain, ‘Silva’ (Javier Bardem) to a sinisterly twisted level. Adopting a sadistic, perverted lust for revenge against former ally ‘M’ (Judi Dench). The character is also unquestionably a stark reminder of what James Bond himself could become if he continues down the path he treads. Conclusively, Skyfall is what I’d call Bond’s ‘crystal ball’ movie.
Saying that, however – the film is also 007′s story of resurrection and redemption – both literally and figuratively. All tying up at a showdown at Bond’s childhood home. Leading to an extremely familiar set up at the close of the film – a promising and exciting prospect. Coupled with a tag line of ‘James Bond Will Return’ – it gets you frenzied with anticipation.
Suitably polished off by the reintroduction of ‘Q’ – portrayed eloquently by Ben Whishaw and a particularly impressive turn of ‘will he, won’t he’ from Ralph Fiennes’ Gareth Mallory, chairman of the Intelligence & Security Committee and somewhat overseer of MI6. Fans of new and old will find something to sate their appetites.
Beyond that, there is so much to behold with Skyfall. I implore any film fan to give this a watch.
So after nearly a whole year since my last chance, I am finally hosting ‘Movie Talk On Sunday’ on Twitter for Sunday 21st October 2012! And my subject will be Award-winning directing duo – The Coen Brothers, Joel and Ethan.
For information on #MTOS, and how you can get involved – Check further down for a direct link.
From the noir-style thriller of ‘Blood Simple’, to the absurd and off-beat ‘The Big Lebowski’, to the incomparable ‘No Country For Old Men’- The Coens redefined genre filmmaking in the late 80′s, the 90′s all the way through to this decade. Combining elements of dark humour, high tension, eccentric characters and grisly violence that has become a formula for some of the most highly praised films of the modern era.
A quick look on my 3 favourite movie trailers that have surfaced this month… Ang Lee’s ‘Life Of Pi’, the ‘already looking epic’ ‘Cloud Atlas’, and Paul Thomas Anderson’s Scientology poke - ‘The Master’
‘Life Of Pi’
Yann Martel’s story of survival and discovery has fallen into the very capable hands of acclaimed director, Ang Lee. While his thriller ‘Lust, Caution’ was surrounded by controversy – this one looks to make the press for far more positive reasons. With a pulsating opening disaster sequence, and some vibrant, beautifully captured external shots. ‘Life Of Pi’ may just be in-line for an Academy nod.
‘Cloud Atlas’
From another best-selling novel – The Wachowski Brothers co-direct (with Tom Tyker) the multiple storied yarn of humankind and the soul. And boasts some acting heavyweights in this 5 minute trailer. We can easily forget ‘Speed Racer’.
An extremely inventive story from English novelist, David Mitchell – pick it up before release.
‘The Master’
By now, every single human should know of P.T Anderson’s near-faultless ‘There Will Be Blood’… With that said, welcome to the next step in Mr Anderson’s plot for world domination… HE’S GOT THE PHOENIX!
So there’s my top 3 trailers for this month. What’s looking good for you? Hit me up on the comment section.
Fass obviously saw his future wang endowment after gazing into his cosmic crystal ball
Cast:-
*Noomi Rapace
*Michael Fassbender
*Charlize Theron
*Logan Marshall-Green
*Idris Elba
Director:- Ridley Scott
MILD SPOILER ALERT!
Without question, Prometheus is the most anticipated movie of 2012 – argue with it what you will.. But it’s a cold hard fact. Namely because it heralds the return to the sci-fi genre of one Sir Ridley Scott – one of the greatest filmmakers of our time. And after over 30 years since his first sci-fi feature, Alien, Mr Scott returns to the franchise that chained one of the greatest film series of our time. But has he, and such a wonderfully talented cast delivered what we’ve eagerly been anticipating?
In a nutshell – Prometheus is a sci-fi spectacle that delves into one of the most posed questions by the human race. Where do we come from? After discovering ancient markings courtesy of ancient civilisations that have a striking parallel - Doctors Elizabeth Shaw (Rapace) and Charlie Holloway (Marshall-Green) lead a 17-strong expedition paid by the Weyland Corporation to investigate a distant planet literally written in the stars, in the hope of finding the answers they seek to the beginnings of human life.
On a production standpoint - Prometheus is visually astounding. Seamlessly blending physical sets with amazing computer generated imagery. Landscapes and beautifully shot vistas are undeniably epic in their scale, beauty and atmospheric effect… And give the film an extremely grandiose aura, harkening to some of Scott’s more recent work. It certainly gives credence to the frequent statement from various medias that Prometheus is a BIG film, in all its aspects and ideas. Building a whole new blueprint to work from (Yes that’s a minor spoiler, this film does bait for sequels). With a production on this scale and a superb bout of timely effort by the designers, the performances and stunt work in some external action scenes are lifted to a higher plane - far away from the craptastic green screen factory line that Hollywood have churned mile after mile of uninspiring bloke flicks on a continual cycle. A very refreshing and welcome shift for a big budget production. No doubt Ridley has set a benchmark here.
Unfortunately, that is where the film’s positive notes end. Because the film, as an entire package, is extremely disappointing.
Prometheus’ running idea of challenging opposing beliefs is highly abundant throughout the film’s first half. Irrevocably, it does nothing to drive the plot or premise of the film – leads to absolutely no character development or actual culmination, and certainly does not make for memorable, or even notable dialogue between the crew mates. A strong aspect of Scott’s ‘Alien’, was the camaraderie between the team aboard the Nostromo. As opposed to this film – With what is a rather extensive crew, are barely even given arm’s-length to stretch their characters and are, as predicted, merely just lambs to the slaughter. Shaw and Holloway’s relationship is kind of a surprise(?)… we get a teeny bit of insight on their past during one scene midway through the film – but as a whole, the exposition police are still at the station eating donuts. Shaw, individually, is actually given a few brief flashback moments thanks to some nosey digging of synthetic bod ’David’ (a pitch perfect Fassbender). But it only amounts to more questions surrounding the Doctor’s ‘faith’ and ‘belief’ of there are really answers out there for what she’s looking for. It’s a real shame, as these ideas surrounding the subject are logical and reasonable – but it’s not constructively or appropriately developed. Rapace borders from passionate scientist come religious optimist (notably pitted against her partner Charlie – who is more privy to the scientific theory of humanity’s origin), to a reasonably small-scale heroine. In perhaps one of the closest scenes to Kane’s chestburster surprise in Alien, Rapace’s Shaw is subject to some pretty gut wrenching stuff. Subsequently stepping over that border aforementioned. For me, Noomi Rapace doesn’t really excel here – more a case of what she was given to work with.
Elsewhere there’s an impressive performance from Charlize Theron, as Weyland overseer, Vickers. Using her icy attributes and pragmatic nature to carry the film’s more ‘diplomatic’ moments and rather channelling franchise poster-girl Ellen Ripley. Idris Elba was a major surprise as perhaps another throwback to the early Alien movies, playing the ship’s captain – Janek. There’s a definite attitude, a groove that he runs on – engaging in some interesting sequences with the two female leads. Though his screen time was small at best, he was perhaps one of the more characterised crew members of Prometheus.
Michael Fassbender, is on another level as the ship’s caretaker/android ‘David’, who oversees the operation of the Prometheus for the two years that the crew remain in stasis. Our introduction to David is probably my favourite sequence in the entire movie. Fassbender almost seems like he’s fresh out of the mould – the mannerisms, a cold and disconcerting tone and quite often humourous nature really notches up some points. Really something. Proving yet again that he is one of the most versatile and talented actors working today.
Prometheus – though with its stunning visuals and fairly strong cast. Massively falters on its most important aspect – the story. With a very intriguing premise, and being overwhelmed with anticipation being such a huge Ridley Scott fan – I was disheartened to see such a promising start keel over near the half way hurdle. It spills out of steady hands into a structure that is fragmented and a very loosely ended narrative. Seriously dampening the efforts from the cast.
Without speculating about sequels - there’s an immediate brain wave after watching the film that not enough back story or development is given to the planet-dwelling (sort of) antagonists. Rendering the film’s last 20-30 minutes nose-pinchingly redundant. Additionally, one of the film’s most important and key moments – unfortunately destroys the entire idea of this being an Alien prequel, completely blowing one of the most mystifying aspects of the franchise’s history out of the water. Fact is, yes it is an Alien prequel, regardless of what’s been reported (sharing ‘strands of Alien DNA’ is a double-entendre, people). Even though some of the references to the franchise are incidentally misplaced that it almost seems less ambiguous and more ‘here look at this little easter egg we tacked on’.
Undoubtedly, opinions will be split right down the middle for Ridley Scott’s return to science fiction, and though the film sets out to ask the great question. We are left asking ourselves a shit load more by the end…
So last Thursday, in an extremely time-consuming preparation method for the soon to be released ‘The Avengers’ – I decided to watch all 5 films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Iron Man 2, Thor and Captain America: The First Avenger. As most will know, the films are interconnected and will culminate in the ensemble piece this month. Here are my top ten moments, spanning all five movies, leading to ‘The Avengers’.
10 – Thor’s Exile To Earth (Thor)
Best quote from the entire film… Odin (Anthony Hopkins) – “HEEEEUUURGH!”
Amazing
09 – Banner Becomes The Hulk At Culver University (The Incredible Hulk)
Norton’s face @ 0.02 is a major grin win
08. Stark and Rhodey Take On Hammer Drones (Iron Man 2)
Probably shoe-horned in for fan service, but it’s still a cool scene to see on the big screen
07. Loki finds out his true parentage (Thor)
Hiddlestone is absolutely divine here. Stellar chemistry with Sir Anthony
06. Birth of The Super Solider (Captain America: The First Avenger)
While this film didn’t live up to everyone’s expectation – this again was a great scene to see immortalised at last
05. The Hulk vs The Abomination (The Incredible Hulk)
A great climax to the often overlooked chapter in the MCU
04. The Star Spangled Man (Captain America: The First Avenger)
Probably not an obvious choice, but this sequence is fun, visually great and backed by a brilliantly composed song
03. Thor vs Loki (Thor)
Again, Tom Hiddlestone throws down some of the best dialogue of the movie. Intense and emotionally compelling. Also cements his ‘evil’ turn after a snarky “Haa haa!” when he takes Thor down. Niiiice
02. Nick Fury Approaches Tony Stark About The ‘Avenger Initiative’ (Iron Man)
This moment was the comfirmation that ‘The Avengers’ was happening. Geek out to the maximum
01. Iron Man – the entire film (Iron Man)
Sure, it’s not a ‘moment’ per se. And the Nick Fury scene wasn’t technically in the main film…But Jon Favreau’s brilliantly acted, written and produced Iron Man film that paved the way for the MCU, is damn near-faultless.
So after nearly a whole year since my last chance, I am finally hosting ‘Movie Talk On Sunday’ on Twitter for Sunday 21st October 2012! And my subject will be Award-winning directing duo – The Coen Brothers, Joel and Ethan.
