World Cinema: Superheroes

They remain in rude health, and the bread and butter of sites such as our own. As has been noted elsewhere, superhero films are often action films dressed up in costume. So, where better to start then Hong Kong? Looks a bit like Kato. When I say a bit, I mean exactly the same. Of particular note is the classic Monkey story, made famous in the West by a ropey TV show....

August 11, 2010 · 2 min · 344 words · Russell Terry

Music in the movies: James Horner

Its a personal score that enhances the emotional themes on screen. Not the greatest listen in isolation, but one that works perfectly as an accompaniment to the film. Horner also co-wrote the Diana Ross song that appears on the soundtrack and was a relative hit. It really is a beautiful and effective score. Its just a shame that it doesnt stand up that well away from the film. Its always done tastefully, though, and never goes so far that youre left rolling your eyes....

August 10, 2010 · 1 min · 95 words · Jennifer Ward

Shutter Island Blu-ray review

Shutter Islandis by no means an exception to the rule. As a fan of the source I was far from disappointed with the film. In fact, it exceeded my high expectations. When a ferocious storm prevents the marshals from leaving the island, theyre as trapped as the patients themselves. Scorsese gets the most out an immensely talented cast. Jackie Earle Hayley leaves an impression in one of the films pivotal scenes as the patient George Noyce....

August 10, 2010 · 1 min · 164 words · Sara Jordan

Black Dynamite review

Michael Jai Whites spoof of 70s blaxploitation movies, Black Dynamite, gets a UK theatrical release. These films were the theatrical ground zero for themes like The Man and urban conspiracy theories concerning the government. They are also known for complementing such freethinking concepts with lots of gunplay, nudity and car chases. Black Dynamitewas well received with a small release in the States of 70 theaters nationwide. Rating: 4 out of 5

August 8, 2010 · 1 min · 71 words · Andrew Foster

Centurion DVD review

There are no complaints with the cast. One thing that struck me as particularly impressive was the portrayal of the Picts. Particularly as the atrocities they suffered at the hands of the Romans are described and shown. The film must be pushing the limits of the 15 certificate it received. It really is spectacularly gory at times. Theres been a host of great films of this ilk released this year and Im all for it....

August 8, 2010 · 1 min · 177 words · Zachary Watkins

The Muppet Show series 1 episode 2 review

This was reportedly Hensons favourite musical number fromTheMuppet Showand was performed at his memorial service. The crisis of confidence is seen towards the end of the episode during an appearance fromSesame StreetsBurt and Ernie. Its a strong show that built on the promise shown in episode one. The previous episode saw the guest star seem a little uncomfortable in her role. As a guest, she more than earned her Muppet likeness....

August 5, 2010 · 1 min · 77 words · Angela Welch

Dinner For Schmucks review

What happens when you unite comedy talents such as Paul Rudd and Steve Carell in the same movie? However, the joy of most movies isnt the destination, but the journey. Ad content continues below Barry is a sweet, dimwitted man who loves taxidermy and works for the IRS. Tim is kind of a callow prick who really wants a nice office. You see where this is going. The cast is really stellar....

August 4, 2010 · 1 min · 155 words · Brittany Schmidt

Looking Back at Joel Schumacher’s The Number 23

He receives a call about a stray dog that has been caught in the basement of a restaurant. The lead characters name comes from his favourite childhood book and both have found their neighbours dead. The next day he sees the dog again and again chases him to the cemetery. When he is finally confronted by Walter, he tells him he should be dead and then kills himself. They go and report their findings to the police, but when they arrive, the bones have vanished....

August 4, 2010 · 1 min · 155 words · Stephanie Williams

Stephane Gravel interview: Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions

We just revealed it at the San Diego Comic Con. And did you have to consult Marvel? Did you work closely with them when working on the story? And then we approached Marvel and showed them the concept, and they were really enthusiastic about it. They put us in contact with Dan Slott, who is one of the current writers onThe Amazing Spider-Man. So, it stays authentic to the spirit of the character....

August 4, 2010 · 2 min · 257 words · Melissa Adams

Cats & Dogs: The Revenge Of Kitty Galore review

Nine years later, and as we still havent noticed, theyve released a sequel. I do remember watching the originalCats & Dogsfilm, many moons ago. In fact, theres an armada of little touches that pastiche and parody sci-fi and spy film genres. CertainlyRoad Runnercartoons seem an obvious target with their wide open deserts and cliff-jumping exploits. But that might just be me. Im still confused as to whether filmmakers really want us to watch the closing credits or not....

August 3, 2010 · 1 min · 123 words · David Roberts

The Expendables review

Lots of action movie stars. A movie that pretends the last two decades didn’t happen. Does The Expendables, then, actually deliver the goods? And do you know what? For once, it really hasnt. I say that knowing and accepting the inherent and obvious flaws that the film has, too. Its lacking in solid story. Its characters are thin. Its often just an excuse to parade action star after action star, with increasingly impressive guns....

August 3, 2010 · 2 min · 419 words · Adam Bowers

Edge Of Darkness Blu-ray review

Casino Royale director Martin Campbell returns with revenge thriller Edge Of Darkness. Can it find a new audience on Blu-ray? He uncovers the truth about Northmoor, a nuclear weapons company that employed Emma. His performance is intense, laced with dark humour and rage. Winstone is also outstanding as the man tasked with stopping Craven, yet letting him continue his investigation. Hes cold and calculating, yet human. Campbells direction is efficient and feels intensely personal, bringing you into the film and the emotions held within....

August 2, 2010 · 2 min · 215 words · Roberto West

Green Zone iTunes download review

Director Paul Greengrass Iraq conspiracy thriller Green Zone hits iTunes. Does its mix of action and politics work on the very small screen? Unsurprisingly, the small matter of the truth is a mere inconvenience to him. Essentially, its an action movie. Why, though, do we need a fictional Hollywood movie to tell us what we already know? Take away the condescending preaching, and youre left with a very average Hollywood action movie....

August 2, 2010 · 1 min · 86 words · Melinda Garrett