Genre: Comedy
Director: Adrian Teh
Cast: A Niu, Elanne Kwong, Kara Hui, Shaun Chen, Marcus Chin, Jack Choo, Maggie Theng, Chris Tong, Rosa Chong
Runtime: 1 hr 36 mins
Rating: PG (Some Sexual References)
Released By: GV & Clover Films
Official Website:
Opening Day: 9 Feb 2012
Synopsis: The Wedding Diary tells the story of a couple, Daniel and Tina (played by Aniu & Elanne Kwong respectively) who decides to get hitched. Daniel is an engineer working in Singapore, who comes from a humble Hokkien Malaysian family, while his wife-to-be Tina, comes from a well-to-do Cantonese Singaporean family. What follows the happy decision to tie the knot is a series of problems involving both families - the disparity in perceived wealth and the countless differences between Singaporean and Malaysian, Hokkien and Cantonese cultures, such that preparations for the wedding almost come to a standstill. In a show of sincerity and commitment to his demanding parents-in-law to be, Daniel agrees to hold an extravagant and lavish wedding banquet in Singapore.
On the wedding day, Daniel discovers that most of the red packets he has planned to use to foot the bill have gone missing! Out of desperation, he heads to the nearby casino to try his luck and ends up losing more money. As he makes up one lie after another to cover up his problems, Tina starts to have suspicions about his fidelity and honesty. He quarrels with his father over the wedding arrangements and in a pique, his father leaves Singapore only to meet with a car accident on the way back to Penang. The happiest day in Daniel’s life is suddenly unfolding into what could be the most depressing… or is it?.
Movie Review:
We are not going to pretend that this is a high brow movie. With so many sponsor logos staring at you on the movie poster, you weren’t expecting this Adrian Teh directed romance comedy to be an independent production where protagonists spend much of their screen time discoursing about life and exchanging knowing glances at each other, were you? And with A Niu headlining the movie, you can roughly know what to expect.
After all, the Malaysian singer songwriter actor (and director!) is the one responsible for the wildly popular and infectious tune “Dui Mian De Nu Hai Kan Guo Lai” (direct translation: Look over here, the girl opposite). The artiste known for his kampong boy image is also known to play comical characters, judging by his filmography (Ice Kacang Puppy Love, Homecoming). Here, he plays a Malaysian born engineer working in the Lion City, and thanks to that magical thing called fate, he meets a pretty girl and the two decide to get married. That’s when the story begins – unexpected trouble and circumstances ensue. But we aren’t worried for the protagonist, because a happy ending can be seen miles away before the movie’s finale takes place.
A Niu may be no Louis Koo, Daniel Wu or Shawn Yue, but he exudes a very adorable charisma which will have you rooting for him in his misadventures. One can almost imagine the Penang born whipping out his guitar to break into a quirky folk song about unrequited love. His on screen co star is Hong Kong TVB actress and singer Elanne Kwong (Invisible Target, City Under Siege), who does her job of looking wide eyed and delightfullu sweet as a rich man’s daughter.
The fun begins with the ensemble of supporting cast which includes Shaun Chen and Chris Tong as the protagonists’ best friends (watch out for a truly funny but painful scene where poor Chen’s nipples are, err, plucked during the traditional “grabbing the bride” ceremony), Jack Choo and Kara Hui as Kwong’s well to do but demanding parents (the TV and film veterans are so good in their roles, it reminds you of the good old days when emotions can be conveyed without shouting hysterically), Maggie Theng as a conniving aunt (we were expecting something bitchier from the local singer though), and a surprisingly wonderful Marcus Chin who plays A Niu’s long suffering father (the meaty role is one of the best we’ve seen in regional cinema so far).
While the story of the everyday woes of getting married in Singapore isn’t what you’d call innovative, the 96 minute movie makes it up with a digestibly comfortable pace (beat that, all you self indulgent filmmakers out there) with some genuinely hilarious setups. Watch out for the scene where John Cheng (more affectionately known as Ah Nam) reveals the true identity of a bag of cash, indirectly poking fun at another local director - it got us giggling at the mischievous scriptwriting.
The production values aren’t that bad either. The well executed cinematography comes as a pleasant surprise, with some gorgeous scenes shot in Malaysia. The last third of the production may feel like a commercial for a particular brand of watch, but hey, since it’s the titular sponsor after all. Besides, the way it is weaved into the storyline is, in our humble opinion, well conceived and movingly affective. You may just shed a tear or two, but before you think this is one unnecessary melodrama, the joy and bliss of a married couple kicks in, and it’s one big happy ending for all.
Movie Rating:
(A pleasant surprise which is truly likeable and will leave you smiling)
Review by John Li
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Director: Eakasit Thairaat/Kongkiat Khomsiri/Pawat Panangkasiri/Chukiat Sakweerakul
Cast: Alex Rendell, Charn Ridulsurakarn, Nattapong Arunnet, Pattarapasit Sappasawadichote, Pakorn Chatborirak, Akarin Akaranitimetarath, Parinya Ngamwongwan, Ananda Everingham, Thiti Vejbul, Peerapol Senakun, Theema Kanchanapairin, Alice Toy, Attanan Piyaset, Sikarin Polyong, Jenjira Jamniensri
RunTime: 2 hrs 5 mins
Released By: Shaw & Clover Films
Rating: NC-16 (Some Disturbing Scenes)
Official Website:
Opening Day: 7 July 2011
Synopsis: "A Noob’s Human Holocaust " directed by Eakasit Thairaat, is the introduction with an unexpected twist to pave the way to other parts with higher degree of haunting feeling. "The Gift Shop for People You Hate" directed by Kongkiat Khomsiri, is this director’s first time with Sahamongkol Film, with the same style of dark comedy that is his specialization. "The Night to Lose Your Mind" directed by Pawat Panangkasiri is probably the darkest and most serious part which will leave the audience stunned with a shocking end. "Who R Kong?" directed by Madiew Chukiat Sakweerakul is a combination of eccentric characters plus a unique storyline that results in a very entertaining way.
These four stories with four different tastes of 4 have been written specifically for this project, under the theme of “losing your mind,” which means the horror and haunting feeling that play directly with people’s mind.
Movie Review:
Oh Thailand film industry, how we have our love/hate relationship. One minute, I'll be slamming on how awful you’ve exploited such genre in vain to as to make a quick buck. Others, i would be on all fours bowing to such majestic film making and knowing how you push our excitement button. And when i mean excitement, i meant the ability to tap into our inner most fear and scare our butts off. It’s amazing how no one else can do such horror like you do. Even when it’s almost a formulaic template, it still works every time. It’s like you’ve found the fountain of youth. And then comes new directors who wants a voice of their own. Have a spin-off from the norm and create something new to the plate. I don’t blame them for trying but some do fall flat when they fall and don’t know how to pick themselves up. Lucky for us a dish of delectable mind warp sanity was served on our screen. Introducing “Four”, a showcase of new visionaries of directors under the theme of “losing your mind”. One can always find true horror and can be in a form of every human mentality that is pushed to the edge.
A Noob’s Human Holocaust
Directed by Eakasit Thairaat, is a cautionary tale that very well can be much a reality if one factor were to be conjured. Mainly set in a one location shot, it refreshingly followed suit much of Hollywood's indie film that revolves in a small venue. Much adding to the claustrophobic nature of the film, the tension of the conversation was very well taunted, feeling every second growing its tension. You’ll doubt yourself of how normal they look but upon hearing their devious plans, you’ll realise that anything can happen to anyone. But all said, even the most perfect plan has its flaws and the director cleverly makes use of such loop hole to add to the near perfect twist that would turn us to get involved in the film. I was definitely wanting more.
The Gift Shop for People You Hate
Directed by Kongkiat Khomsiri, he tells a tale of a quirky shop, that sells nick-knacks that has a evil presence to it’s aim. With the title giving it away, it’s a shop that sells gift for people you hate resulting a bad accident to befall on him. You may find that this be a joke but what if, the owner reveals that someone has already bought for you? Would definitely mess up your mind wouldn’t it? It’s either such shocking situation and lose your mind over it or that it’s all a joke and a very clever marketing of the shop owner. But know knows. Will you take the risk?
The Night to Lose Your Mind
The weakest of the lot, directed by Pawat Panangkasiri, tells a tale of 3 thieves who are doing their last job only to be trapped and haunted in an old abandoned hospital which they took refuge in upon running into a road block. “Saw” was what came across my mind as the haunting figure put them in on a road to recovery but somehow just fell flat when it went incoherent towards the end. Plot loop holes started devouring the film and finally felt as if the director wanted to end the film upon realising how messed up the film is (ironic huh?). Even with the happy ending that ensues, the last frame was just a slap in the face which just made me throw my hands up in the air and give up because it doesn’t make any sense at all.
Who R Kong?
Madiew Chukiat Sakweerakul, the favourite of the lot was so much of a refreshing horror that we’re used to. In perspective, one can say it mimics the TV shows “Pushing Daisies” tone. Bright colours which blaringly juxtaposed with the morbid theme and mixed with humour that is over the top and fully embrace its nature. It’s rather unheard of an Asian film to mix such topic of family bickering, fulfilling an old man’s last request to be taken care of, after life, at home and dark humour. Adding to the mix the bag, grandchildren who one, is limp at the wrist, one addicted to sex, one who can’t stop messaging on her phone, one normal hardworking girl and lastly, and put plainly, an a**hole. It had the right amount of humour and horror, with a dash of vivid exterior, it was a joy to watch even if it breaks every sense of reality.
Movie Rating:
(Indulge in four stories that will touch the heart of your fear)
Review by Lokman B S
The Autobots and Decepticons are back for a third time, and so is American rock band Linkin Park. After "What I’ve Done" and "New Divide" on the first two Transformers movie, the streak of Linkin Park songs being the theme songs of the Transformers movies continue. This time, the band from California performs “Iridescent” (from their fourth studio album “A Thousand Suns”), an emotionally charged rock ballad which is definitely worthy of the replay button on your player.
Also, watch out for the music video directed by Joe Hahn, the band’s turntablist. The four minute tune, which paints a picture of hope amidst chaos and sadness, seems to be an appropriate choice for the latest Transformers blockbuster.
Elsewhere, two other singles are included specifically for this soundtrack album. American rock band Paramore’s “Monster” has lead vocalist Hayley Williams singing her lungs out about how she wants to stop “the whole world from turning into a monster”.
Alternative rock band Goo Goo Dolls' "All That You Are" is the second single. Vocalist and guitarist John Rzeznik (whose performance on the theme song of Disney's animated feature Treasure Planet is extraordinarily memorable), vocalist and bass guitarist Robbt Takac and drummer Mike Malinin perform a radio friendly tune which is a nice companion to their contribution to the 2007 Transformers movie, "Before It's Too Late”.
This is easily the most rock heavy album in the series, with American rock bands like My Chemical Romance belting out the heart thumping “The Only Hope for Me is You”, Staind commanding the air waves with the grave sounding “The Bottom” and Black Veil Brides performing the thunderously strident “Set the World on Fire”.
The 39 minute album is a must own if you are a fan of rock, as it contains tracks ranging from alternative rock, post grunge and hard rock. We are also almost certain that it is a soundtrack director Michael Bay would approve of, seeing how the music would be wonderful accompaniments to the scenes of Autobots and Decepticons vehemently battling it out in their third live action movie.
ALBUM RATING:
Recommended Track: (1) Iridescent – LInkin Park
Review by John Li
Posted on 26 June 2011
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SPY KIDS in 4D Aromascope in theatres 1 September 2011!Posted on 27 Jun 2011 |
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Erotic Comedy 3D SEX AND ZEN 3D 肉蒲团 will finally open in Singapore 21 July!Posted on 27 Jun 2011 |
Genre: Erotic/Thriller
Director: Christopher Sun
Cast: Hara Saori, Suo Yukiko, Vonnie Liu, Leni Lan, Hiro Hayama, Irene Chan, Tony Ho
RunTime: 1 hr 58 mins
Released By: GV
Rating: R21 (Nudity, Sexual Scenes and Graphic Violence)
Official Website: http://www.3dsexzen.com/
Opening Day: 21 July 2011
Synopsis: SEX AND ZEN is a remake of the classic 1991 Hong Kong movie of the same name, and tells the story of a scholar in ancient China who loses himself in the harem of a duke with whom he befriends.
Movie Review:
A review of the world’s first 3D Chinese-language erotic film, we believe, is simply extraneous- after all, you’ve probably already decided on this basis alone whether or not you’re going to watch this movie (and if you have, we strongly urge you to catch it in 3D). And why not- since besides action and horror, erotica is probably the genre that would clearly benefit from the additional dimension, especially seeing as how we already talk about them boobs very much dimensionally.
It makes perfect sense then that producer Stephen Shiu would decide to reboot his infamous Category III- series ‘Sex and Zen’ for a new audience, the story inspired in part once again by the ancient Chinese text ‘The Carnal Prayer Mat’. Of course, story is probably the least of the reasons why their audience has opted to see this film, so Shiu, who co-wrote the screenplay with his son Stephen Shiu Jr and Mark Yu, keeps it simple, in fact perhaps a little too simplistic.
The protagonist here is a young Ming Dynasty scholar Wei Yangsheng (Hiro Hayamo) who has just gotten married with the beautiful Tie Yuxiang (Leni Lan). The couple have one problem though- Wei is just not very good in bed, and goes frigid all too quickly. His quest to better their sex life leads him to the Pavilion of Ultimate Bliss, a carnal pleasuredome reigned over by the Prince of Ning (Tony Ho in an effectively hammy performance) living a life of hedonism and unrestrained sexual pleasure.
Armed with an excuse, Shiu and director Christopher Sun trot out familiar Japanese AV stars Saori Hara and Yukiko Suo, as well as Hong Kong’s very own busty beauty and wet dream fantasy Vonnie Lui. Hara and Suo are among two of the temptresses at the Pavilion, while Lui plays The Elder of Bliss, an androgynous being who looks stunning but speaks with the voice of an old man. If you’re a fan of Lui, the bad news is that she doesn’t go topless- nevertheless, that disappointment will probably be short-lived seeing Hara and Suo do so for the most part when onscreen.
Indeed, one can pretty much guess how the rest of the girls were auditioned for this film, but we wouldn’t expect less from a film like this. There is a generous amount of nudity in the film, restricted however to boobs, bums and the brief shots of Yangsheng’s incompetent penis. Love-making is also copious, and most if not all of the scenes set in the Pavilion have either nudity or love-making or both in the background at least. Sun’s film doesn’t forget its purpose to titillate, and so at least on a visceral level, you can be assured that you will leave satisfied.
While it remains remarkably consistent in the skin department, the film is much less so in its tone. At the start, it adopts the same playful attitude as the original film, with Yangsheng’s unaccomplished sex life as well as his desperate attempts to improve his endowment played up for exaggerated laughs. Especially hilarious is Yangsheng’s visit to two quack village doctors (one of them played by Stephen Chow regular Tin Kai-Man) for a penis replacement operation, their wordplay and subsequent bungling of the organ utterly ridiculous but also side-splittingly funny.
Things however take a much darker tone when Yangsheng’s devastated wife gets raped and both Prince Ning as well as Yangsheng’s buddy Lin (Tenky Tin) reveal a nasty conspiracy to teach him a lesson for his arrogant ways. Depictions of rape and sexual violence are already toned down in the ‘international version’ that we are getting here in Singapore, but these later scenes, especially an extended climax which plays out like torture porn, will quite likely discomfort some audiences. Sun plays these up supposedly to strengthen the moral at the end about love and fidelity, but one wishes that he had exercised more restraint.
Restraint is also in short shrift when it comes to the use of 3D as a gimmick, and the additional dimension is primarily used in the film’s action scenes to hurl some weapon or another at the audience. Granted that the film industry in Asia is just waking up to the possibilities of 3D, therefore such gimmicks are probably to be expected while the technology is still being experimented. The stereoscopy also does enhance the curves and depth of the nude female cast, but these effects tend to be much subtler.
But of course, gimmick though it may be, there’s no denying that it does work after all to add to the luridness. ‘Sex and Zen’ was never meant to be high art in the first place, offering visceral pleasures in a rambunctious way. There will be those who will criticise it for objectifying the female sex (which any soft-core porn film is certainly guilty of to some extent), but then they are probably not the audience this film is meant for. For everyone else keen to savour in the display of flesh, this is just the carnal pleasure you’ll get.
Movie Rating:
(It doesn’t offer much beyond lurid pleasures- but then again, what else were you hoping for?)
Review by Gabriel Chong
Genre: Action/Comedy/Adventure
Director: Robert Rodriguez
Cast: Jessica Alba, Joel McHale, Jeremy Piven, Antonio Banderas, Danny Trejo, Alexa Vega, Daryl Sabara, Ricky Gervais
RunTime: 1 hr 29 mins
Released By: GV
Rating: PG
Official Website: http://www.spykidsmovie.net/
Opening Day: 1 September 2011
Synopsis: On the surface, Marissa Cortez Wilson (Jessica Alba) has it all…married to a famous spy hunting television reporter, a new baby and intelligent twin step kids. But in reality, trying to mother Rebecca (Rowan Blanchard) and Cecil (Mason Cook), who clearly don’t want her around, is her toughest challenge yet. Also, her husband, Wilbur (Joel McHale), wouldn’t know a spy if he lived with one which is exactly the case – Marissa’s a retired secret agent. Marissa’s world is turned upside down when the maniacal Timekeeper (Jeremy Piven) threatens to take over the planet and she’s called back into action by the head ofOSS, home of the greatest spies and where the now-defunct Spy Kids division was created. With Armageddon quickly approaching, Rebecca and Cecil are thrust into action when they learn their boring stepmom was once a top agent and now the world’s most competitive ten year olds are forced to put their bickering aside and rely on their wits. With a little help from a couple of very familiar Spy Kids, Carmen (Alexa Vega) and Juni Cortez (Daryl Sabara), and some mind-blowing gadgets, they just may be able to save the world and possibly bring their family together while they’re at it.
Movie Review:
The movie experience is getting more fanciful with the advancements in movie technology, with the latest offering from the Spy Kids franchise promising a whole new movie experience with an additional dimension- Aromascope. Is it really as good as it promises? Well… there is some reservation on that.
In Spy Kids: All the Time in the World, Jessica Alba takes the role of a spy-mum, Marissa, who ridiculously fought and caught the baddie when she was 9 months into pregnancy. She thought after completing her last mission, she could retire peacefully and would be able to live a regular life with her newly-wed husband, an overenthusiastic father and local television presenter Wilbur (Joel McHale), and her stepchildren, Rebecca (Rowan Blanchard) and Cecil (Mason Cook). However, the Timekeeper is on the loose again. This time he is out to snatch all the time in the world (pun intended) with project Armageddon. Her stepchildren eventually got involved in this new launched mission to save the world from its devastation as the stepmother’s secret got revealed to them.
The cast, though not an A-star lineup, did a fair job at their roles, though there is nothing too spectacular or particularly impressive from their acting as well. Cameo appearances of the first spy kids, Carmen (Alexa Vega) and Juni Cortez (Daryl Sabara), give the audiences a little surprise midway. It also reminds you of the nostalgic good times in Spy Kids 2001 (if you had caught it when you were young). Kids really do grow up, don’t they?
Like any other family movies, Spy Kids: All the Time in the World is aimed at keeping the children fascinated and entertained. However, even with the extensive display of fancy gadgets, humorous hideous-looking talking dog and colorful backdrops, they can only manage to keep the children mildly entertained. The added dimension, Aromascope, is nothing but a flimsy trick of integrating the blunt plot with the smells (note: mostly pungent and self-administered). Though the added dimension of the movie is marketed as ‘FREE’, it is not really worth your time, money and effort. Even the kids don’t buy into it. Nonetheless, you can expect better 3D graphics. With the plethora of 3D movies available in the market and advancements in the 3D technology, this progress is only logical. Even though the budget for this spy kids film is not as generous as before, it does not compromise the quality of the picture. Kudos for that!
All in all, if you are looking for some wholesome family adventure with a good load of moral lessons to partake, you can probably skip this one. Two words can appropriately sum up the overall movie experience: time wasting.
Movie Rating:
(Keeps the children mildly entertained with some cheap humour. Other than that, nothing really noteworthy, not even the Aromascope)
Review by Tho Shu Ling
Genre: Action/Thriller
Director: Julien Leclercq
Cast: Vincent Elbaz, Grégori Derangère, Mélanie Bernier, Philippe Bas, Aymen Saïdi, Marie Guillard, Antoine Basler
RunTime: 1 hr 35 mins
Released By: GV & MVP
Rating: M18 (Violence & Religious References)
Official Website:
Opening Day: 4 August 2011
Synopsis: On December 24, 1994, when four heavily armed terrorists from the Algerian Armed Islamic Group hijacked an Air France plane, Flight 8969, bound for Paris at Algiers' airport, the 227 passengers on board seemed destined for tragedy. After hours of tireless negotiations the plane was granted permission to leave only to head to Marseille for refueling. Mindfully avoiding politics and emphasizing only the events themselves, THE ASSAULT weaves together the violent and claustrophobic onboard drama, with backstories of the tough SWAT officer and father Thierry (Vincent Elbaz), the determined jihadist from the slums of Algiers (Aymen Saidi), and an overly ambitious French Interior Ministry worker. Action-savvy director Julien Leclercq (CHRYSALIS) boldly returns with this taut, real-life thriller that culminates in an explosive gun-wielding standoff, which, at the time, aired live in front of an audience of 21 million television viewers. Leclercq seamlessly intertwines this harrowing real-life footage, heightening the stakes while driving home this heroic but foreboding event in French history.
Movie Review:
French director Julien Leclercq’s sophomore feature is a dramatization of the events of Christmas Day, 1994, when a group of four heavily armed men from the Algerian Armed Islamic Group hijack an Air France flight bound for Paris. The comparisons with Paul Greengrass’ ‘United 93’ are inevitable- besides the fact that both concern themselves with the hijacking of a commercial plane by Muslim extremists, Leclercq also employs the same handheld, faux-verite style that Greengrass used to convey the urgency and immediacy of the unfolding events.
For the most part, Leclercq succeeds in creating a gripping chronological account of the events leading up to the French GIGN’s (the elite counter-terrorism paramilitary unit of the French National Gendarmerie) storming of the plane stranded on a runway in Marseille airport where it had stopped to refuel. Still, his film lacks the intensity and emotional muscle of ‘United 93’, which is perhaps also a consequence of the more drawn-out nature of the incident (two days compared to United’s two hours) which it portrays.
Leclercq, who co-wrote the screenplay with Simon Moutairou, chooses to tell the story from three parallel lines. Thierry (Vincent Elbaz) is one of the squad leaders of the GIGN, and the film’s opening minutes attempt to contrast the harrowing nature of his daily work with the calming father figure he tries to be at home to his baby girl. On the other side of the barrel is Yahia (Aymen Saidi), the leader of the terrorist group who finds justification (however misguided) for his actions through fervent and frequent prayer. There’s also Carole (Melanie Bernier), a French Interior Ministry staffer who finds it an uphill task to prove to her condescending male colleagues that the hijackers are in fact on a suicide mission.
The choice of these three perspectives is interesting, especially the contrast between Thierry and Yahia. Leclercq draws similarities between the two, despite their relative sides in the impending battle. A poignant sequence where Yahia’s mother meets him face-to-face to convince him to surrender affirms that Yahia is, like Thierry, a family man. Just like Thierry too, Yahia finds himself the rallying figure for his men, the symbol they look to for strength amidst their fears and anxieties for the task in front of them. Carole, on the other hand, portrays the authorities’ unpreparedness in dealing with the threat of Muslim extremism, much of the dithering on the part of the French probably manifested in the same way by the American authorities when 9/11 hit.
The fact that these three storylines unfold almost independently of each other means that there is less screen time for each of the characters- but Elbaz, Saidi and Bernier perform admirably in lifting their characters beyond caricature. In particular, Saidi is surprisingly effective as the determined terrorist leader who nonetheless is not without shades of humanity and concomitant uncertainties about his course of action. Bernier also convinces as the bold and resolute junior staffer willing to take risks to circumvent layers in Government authority.
Together, the well-chosen cast hold your attention until the final 20 minutes where the action kicks in proper. There will certainly be detractors who will find fault with Leclercq’s choice to shoot most of the action in close-ups, as it also means that it is sometimes difficult to follow the swiftly unfolding action. Nonetheless, this climactic showdown is no less heart-thumping, and perhaps it is even more so because Leclercq conveys it through the eyes of those thrust into the highly charged situation (think of it as a first-person shooter experience).
And indeed, even if Leclercq was clearly influenced by Greengrass’ method, there’s no denying that he has utilised it effectively to retell a similarly harrowing real-life drama with style and verve. There is a raw energy to his technique of handheld, documentary-style shots, and the intertwining of the dramatized events with real-life footage enhances the highly-fraught tension-filled situation. This isn’t your standard-issue action thriller, but one which reminds us of the clear and present real-life danger present in our world out there, as well as the true heroes who put their lives on the line for those of others.
Movie Rating:
(Riveting from start to finish, by way of 'United 93's' faux-verite style that conveys keenly the immediacy and tension of the real-life events)
Review by Gabriel Chong
Genre: CG Animation/Adventure
Director: Mark Andrews and Brenda Chapman
Cast: Kelly Macdonald, Emma Thompson, Billy Connolly, Julie Walters, Kevin McKidd, Craig Ferguson, Robbie Coltrane
RunTime: 1 hr 41 mins
Released By: Walt Disney Studio Motion Pictures
Rating: PG
Official Website: http://disney.go.com/brave/?cmp=wdsmp_brv_url_dcombrave
Opening Day: 8 August 2012
Synopsis: Set in the rugged and mysterious Highlands of Scotland, Disney•Pixar's “Brave” follows the heroic journey of Merida (voice of Kelly Macdonald), a skilled archer and headstrong daughter of King Fergus (voice of Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (voice of Emma Thompson). Determined to change her fate, Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the unruly and uproarious lords of the land: massive Lord MacGuffin (voice of Kevin McKidd), surly Lord Macintosh (voice of Craig Ferguson) and cantankerous Lord Dingwall (voice of Robbie Coltrane), unleashing chaos in the kingdom. When she turns to an eccentric Witch (voice of Julie Walters), she is granted an ill-fated wish and the ensuing peril forces Merida to harness all of her resources including her mischievous triplet brothers—to undo a beastly curse and discover the meaning of true bravery.
Movie Review:
First, the bad news: We aren’t adoring Pixar’s 13th film as much as we would have wanted to. The award winning animation studio has a lot to live up to, especially after heartbreakingly perfect works like the Toy Story trilogy (1995 – 2010), Wall.E (2008) and Up (2009). Sure, last year’s offering Cars 2 (2011) did not win too many critics’ hearts, but there was a fun element to the movie that we thought was a guilty pleasure. Here, we have a princess who is determined to make her own path in life, going all out to defy a custom that may bring chaos to her entire kingdom. Sounds vaguely familiar to the many other Disney heroines you’ve seen before?
The protagonist of this 100 minute film is Merida, a red haired princess who is also a skilled archer. Set in the highlands of the 10thcentury Scotland, she consults a witch for help after being set up for marriage by her mother. Before she knows it, her family becomes cursed and she has to undo the spell before it is too late.
The thing about Pixar productions is how they always manage to bring a touch of humanism, a life lesson which hits you during the end credits. With this latest computer animated fantasy adventure film, it seems like the Californiabased studio is relying on a been there done that formula which lacks that extra oomph. There is no doubt the technology used in the making of this film is astounding – just look at Merida’s red strands of hair, and the breathtaking landscape shots. This is a result of the wizards Pixar who completely rewrote their animation system for the first time in 25 years. The complex visuals are a treat to the eyes. Unfortunately, there is no groundbreaking stuff here when it comes to the plot.
The calculated pacing of the Walt Disney Pictures distributed movie is, perhaps, the most disappointing aspect of this otherwise recommended family movie. You know how the story will develop, you know how Merida’s defiance will eventually become bravery, and you know how you can expect a safe and happy ending. Although this isn’t a bad thing in this time of chaos and unrest, there is a part of you that wishes for something more.
The voice cast includes Scottish actress Kelly Macdonald (Trainspotting, TV’s Boardwalk Empire) as the big hearted Merida, British actress Emma Thompson (Last Chance Harvey, An Education) as the stubborn queen mother and Scottish comedian Billy Connolly (Garfield: A Tale of Two Kitties, Gulliver’s Travels) as the brutish king father. This talented cast brings an extra edge to the characters’ personalities, and aided by an aptly folksy score by Patrick Doyle (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Thor) featuring native instruments like bagpipes, fiddles and harps, this tale of bravery is an easy one to sit through.
Stealing the show are Merida’s triplet brothers Harris, Hubert and Hamish, three non speaking characters who provide countless chuckle worthy moments. Also worth mentioning is English actress Julie Walters’ (Molly Weasley in the Harry Potter movies) performance as The Witch. Despite having limited screen time, the hilarious character (which reminds us of Hayao Miyazaki’s creations) is one you won’t forget for some time.
All hope is not lost though – preceding the feature is La Luna, a seven minute short film directed by Enrico Casarosa which displays Pixar’s much loved story telling skills.
Movie Rating:
(This tale of bravery may not be groundbreaking, but is still enough to warrant an enjoyable visual treat)
Review by John Li
Genre: Drama
Director: Steven Spielberg
Cast: Emily Watson, David Thewlis, Peter Mullan, Niels Arestrup, Tom Hiddleston, Jeremy Irvine, Benedict Cumberbatch, Toby Kebbell
Released By: Walt Disney Motion Pictures
Runtime: 2 hrs 27 mins
Rating: PG
Official Website: http://www.warhorsemovie.com/
Opening Day: 29 December 2011
Synopsis: From director Steven Spielberg comes “War Horse,” an epic adventure for audiences of all ages. Set against a sweeping canvas of rural England and Europe during the First World War, “War Horse” begins with the remarkable friendship between a horse named Joey and a young man called Albert, who tames and trains him. When they are forcefully parted, the film follows the extraordinary journey of the horse as he moves through the war, changing and inspiring the lives of all those he meets—British cavalry, German soldiers, and a French farmer and his granddaughter—before the story reaches its emotional climax in the heart of No Man’s Land. The First World War is experienced through the journey of this horse—an odyssey of joy and sorrow, passionate friendship and high adventure. “War Horse” is one of the great stories of friendship and war— a successful book, it was turned into a hugely successful international theatrical hit that is arriving on Broadway next year. It now comes to screen in an epic adaptation by one of the great directors in film history.
Movie Review:
I have to admit I haven't been impressed by Steven Spielberg's form of late, especially not since his last Indiana Jones installment was nothing but going through the motion, lacking that sense of fun filled adventure his earlier works had endeared him to audiences worldwide. 2011 proved to be that return to form. showing his hand at the grandeur epics he used to helm effortlessly, with Tintin showing the way, and War Horse sealing the deal for a successful year.
Based upon the children's novel by Michael Morpurgo turned successful stage play of the same name, War Horse is Spielberg's first foray into the settings of World War I, having had a number of his films deal with WWII, from the settings of the Indiana Jones franchise, to more adult oriented fare like Empire of the Sun and Schindler's List. For war movie junkies, War Horse has no lack of the essence of what The Great War was about, with Spielberg deftly handling without deliberate flamboyance the horrors of what the technological turn of the century had brought. It equalled in its war scenes what the director had done with Saving Private Ryan to put the audience right there amongst the harrowing battles, be it face to face with a tank, riding amongst a charging calvary, being deep in trenches and the threat of being mowed down by machine gun fire, or gas.
But war material aside, War Horse is essentially a powerful tale about the friendship between a young, powerful horse christened Joey, and his owner Albert (Jeremy Irvine), whose father (Peter Mullan) had bought the animal in a market out of pride when he needed a work horse to plough the fields, not a thoroughbred. The first act set in the countryside is everything a family friendly drama can offer, dealing with friendship and perseverance and having elements of training that Joey will take along with him when he gets forcefully sold to the army with World War I, having to rely on everything taught to take him through both sides of the war in the British and German armies, and moments of reprieve when not tasked at the forefront of battles.
Narratively the second half is what provided War Horse its sense of epic adventure as Joey's owners change quite frequently during that four year long war duration, and each episode has enough legs to carry its own film, condensed into little vignettes full of characterization for each of the players involved, ranging from the compassion shown by soldiers from either side that save it from certain death, to that of an old man (Niels Arestrup) and his grand-daughter (Celine Buckens) whose idyllic lives get rudely interrupted when soldiers plunder. These episodes enrich the story and is chock full of humanity, and are what provided War Horse its heartfelt moments many times throughout the film. One of my favourites involves a moment of peace amongst the chaos and insanity of war, where enemies put aside their untold differences to get a joint goal accomplished, laced with light-heartedness that's so longed for when death and weariness set in for the characters.
The star of the film is inevitably the group of horses that took various turns at playing the titular stallion, with that hint of CG introduced for more complex shots required. Spielberg is that master manipulator in knowing just how to frame scenes for maximum emotional impact for the horse, putting us side by side with Albert as joint-owners for Joey's well-being, from the time he gets trained to the time he had to leave the comforts of home for the horrors that war would inevitably bring. We become like protective parents of a child we see grow up, and from then on root him along the way to overcome various adversities and hardship just so that he can be reunited somehow, someday with his owner. The strong ensemble cast that come and go at various milestones of Joey's remarkable journey also made it a delight to sit through.
WIth Spielberg's usual suspects of John Williams, Janusz Kaminski and Michael Kahn providing that sweeping, powerful score, lensing those vast, beautiful landscapes and keeping everything solidly tight, this is good old fashioned epic filmmaking at its very best, and is clearly, undisputedly highly recommended to close 2011 with. Don't miss it!
Movie Rating:
(Spielberg's 2011 thoroughbred winner!)
Review by Stefan Shih
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