ONE DAY-just not today....

I just had the misfortune of watching "One day", based on the popular (?) novel by David Nicholls. Following the affair between couple "Emma" (Anne Hathaway) and "Dexter" (Jim Sturgess)
Wow this really was disappointing from start to finish. I had to look away several times because I just couldn't handle the cornball lines and fake expressions any more!
There is nothing here we haven't seen before that hasn't been dealt with a lot better.
Boy meets girl,girl yearns for boy,boy takes drugs and screws around,girl eventually gives up on him and gets better looking and then boy finally comes knocking on her door.
There was no substance in this film. Not one performance that could get it over the finish line. They managed to get Patricia Clarkson for chrissake and not even utilise her. OUTRAGE!
The look of the film was reminiscent of a midday movie. The hair and makeup used to age the characters over a 20 year period was laughable.A year 8 student could have shown them a thing or two.
According to Harpers Bazaar this is a "must see romantic epic". I hate to break it to ya folks but "Out of Africa" and "Gone with the Wind" are romantic epics;this is but a mere piece of fluff.
Anne Hathaway's performance is trite. Her earnesty and appeal are nil. Her accent is appauling.One minute she is as cockney as Eliza DooLittle the next she sounds as Welsh as Pam Ayers. HELP!
Jim sturgess as "Dexter" has a few moments as the "asshole" but was boring and unbelievable when he turned into the nice guy.
Just when you think the end is near,we are juxtaposed once more when the couple first met.Here we have to endure more crap dialogue and strained passion. WTF !!!
People there's a reason you've never heard of danish Director Lone Scherfig.
You dig?
Dont like me be fooled by the smoky mysterious movie poster.

JAX

COUNTRY STRONG....Too Long....

MUST remember never to see a film that goes straight to DVD.
Yes yes I know I always seem to break this rule and I'm invariably dissapointed.
I must say the trailer for "Country Strong" had me chomping at the bit. Country music movies have always had my vote. There have been some pearlers over the years- "Coal Miners Daughter" "Walk the Line" and more recently "Crazy Heart"
These movies like the songs within them are intoxicating. I cant seem to get enough of the plights of lonely and mistreated wives and their tough talking alcoholic cowboys.
"Country Strong" definitely delivered on the music front. Songs like "Coming home" "Words I couldn't say" or "A little bit stronger" all fit the bill here and some were even nominated for an Oscar for best original song.
Unfortunately the rest of the film was a fair waste of time.
You'd have to be Gomar Pyle to believe the plot that Shana Feste concocted here. The sporadic status between underdeveloped characters was difficult to watch. Sometimes I felt like I was watching a bad episode of "The Young and the Restless"
The corny script made me reach for the sick bag more than once. Gwyneth Paltrows' character "Kelly" made one devastating faux pas after the next. If she wasn't having sex with her manager or skulling a bottle of vodka,she was passing out on stage. Although after visiting a dying kid,she miraculously comes good and goes onto give the performance of her life as well as giving advice to her young protege- "Falling in love honey,that's all there is in life..." Deep...
As any alcoholic will tell you it takes five years for the fog to lift; not three hours.
In saying that there was some good acting here. Big hunk of spunk Tim McGraw was well cast as "James" the long suffering husband to Kelly. This co dependent matrimonial arrangement is all too common. One fucks up,the other cleans up and no one gets out alive. Tim's conversion from real life country singer to screen has been effortless. He doesn't miss any cues and his portrayal of "James" denotes real depth and clarity. I just hope they don't typecast the poor bastard in the future.
Gwyneth too puts in a solid performance. She carefully illustrates the child like nature of the addict. That is highly emotional and volatile when they don't get their own way.
Infuriating one minute,utterly adorable the next. She had the southern accent and doey eyes down pat. Perhaps a little too beautiful for this highly flawed character. Yes blondie you can do it all. Its a shame it wasn't a better movie to showcase all your talents.
As for the two kids,well. The young "Beau" played by Garrett Hedland was mediocre at best. His blue eyes and bum fluff did nothing for me. Perhaps he could shake it on "Friday Nights Lights" but he seemed somewhat out of place here.We may decide to lay blame again with director Shana Feste. Not only for casting someone too young, but for allowing such over the top lip syncing to be screened.
Leighton Meester as "Chiles Stanton" (the up and coming country star) is nice enough;she is certainly no Sissy Spaceck ("Coal Miners Daughter"). The love story created between these two young characters is contrived and vaccuous . But again perfectly good actors drown in bad scripts and poorly woven plots. This was no exception.
By the time the ending came, I was playing angry birds on my i phone and planning my scathing attack on this movie.
All said and done, as I move into 2012,my New Years Resolution is to not be so black and white and to live in the grey. In this way "Country Strong" like any hot headed cowboy has its pros and its prickles.

"You may fool me and I'll fall
But I won't stay down long
'Cause I'm country strong"
(lyrics from "Country Strong")

AMERICAN:The Bill Hicks Story.

Hello again,
The other day at work,my colleague mentioned a documentary that was due to be aired on TV about Bill Hicks. I knowingly replied,"Oh the guy that did Microsoft?"
Not quite.
I was soon to discover there was a magical man that had somehow managed to completely bypass my entertainment radar.
An exceptional American comedian,satirist,social critic and musician that I'd never even heard of.
A man that unlike many could make me laugh out loud and rejoice in his uncensored and brutally honest take on society.
Despite his untimely death of cancer at 32; Hicks managed to cram a lot into his short life; a unique individual that was clearly born with dem "funny bones"
From his humble beginnings as a wanna be mimic at Sunday school, to performing stand up comedy at the tender age of 16 at the Comedy Workshop in Texas. He continued to develop his craft right across the country.
The documentary contains real life footage of Hicks having full control over his audience.
The choice to intersperse animation and black and white stills was an original and engaging move by directors Matt Harlock and Paul Thomas.
"Americain"illustrates Hicks resolute determination to become a comedian. His drive that eventually lands him on the David Letterman show and to furthur and greater recognition in the United Kingdom.
Hicks has been called the comedians comedian. A man who inhabits what it is to be truly funny.
Whilst studying acting myself,my movement teacher said-when you are going for funny. Go ALL the way. Don't hold back. HICKS, FARLEY,BELUSHI. All now with God,but all went ALL the way.
His tenaciousness also leads him into a dynamic dual with the bottle. Hicks played hard untill he just wasnt funny anymore. After admitting defeat, Hicks joined AA and never looked back (despite a few ongoing educational experiments with magic mushrooms)
On his return, Hicks really started to develop his humour. He was no longer just a dead pan mimic but rather a staunch social commentator with attitude.
He was no longer willing to apologise for speaking his truth. After all he poised, wasn't that your right as an American citizen?
He gave everyone a hard time- marketing/advertising executives, Christians,non-smokers,you name it. But every time,he had a point.
Hicks was no "phony".He detested hypocrisy and was always willing to push the boundaries.
Bill Hicks thank God I found you. Your legend truly lives on.


"Tragedy is when I cut my finger. Comedy is when you fall into an open sewer and die."

Mel Brooks

Bill Hicks - AMERICAN: The Bill Hicks Story Official Trailer - redband

Martin Lawrence - Jealous Woman

Funny bugger this one!

i love YOU phillip Morris!

I also LOVE Ewan Mcgregor and Jim Carrey... What a unique pair that come together to create this wonderfully original and colourful movie.
"I love you Phillip Morris" is a black comedy based on real events.
It is written and directed by John Requa and Glenn Ficarra,(they also wrote "Bad Santa" 10 years ago which I promptly walked out of)
The boys have got a little wiser and managed to deliver on all fronts. Great writing,banging soundtrack and spot on performances.
The movie centres around the life and times of Stephen Jay Russell. Stephen is currently serving two consecutive life sentences for several fraud and con artist convictions.
Prior to his incarceration,Russell covered ALOT of ground.As a young man he simultaneously discovered he was not only gay but that he was adopted. His attempt to live the "straight" life in suburbia with wife and child is short lived when his penchant for penis becomes all too consuming.
From here we begin to see Russell as a Robin Hood of sorts. Yes he does willingly rob from the rich but this is mostly to satisfy the needs of others. Interestingly enough, children who are adopted often feel an enormous sense of rejection. In this way,they often become people pleasers to attempt to gain that illusive sense of acceptance.
Its in jail,that Russell meets Morris ;the love of his life. The pair quickly hit it off. It soon becomes apparent this meeting of souls was written in the stars.
Russell goes onto do a lot of crazy shit in order to keep his man by his side. From pretending he is a lawyer to faking his own death from AIDS.
No mean feat!
This is a movie of stark contrasts.
The deliberate use of bright colours in grim places like jail ultimately gives the movie an uplifting feel.
The cheeky sex scenes set to 80's music make you giggle rather than squirm.
For me as always,its all about the performances. Both these actors avoided obvious gay stereotypes.
Jim Carey's ability to do drama and comedy equally well is unique in Hollywood. Carey gives it absolutely everything in this movie. His maturation as an actor shows depth and originality to each part he pursues. I love you and I forgive you for "The Mask"
I had only ever seen Ewan Mcgregor before in "Trainspotting." Sure,it was so good he could have retired right there and then;but Im glad he didn't. Mcgregor as "Morris" oozed his adoration for Russell like a helpless puppy dog. He was completely present in the role and there was not one hint of Scottish heroin addict anywhere.
Yummy Mexican actor Rodrigo Santoro was outstanding as Russells first gay lover. A small but powerfully important role for this up and comer.
"I love you Phillip Morris" takes you on many unexpected turns and you may get a little dizzy. Dont worry,trust it and remember in the immortal words of Oprah "The chance to love and be loved exists no matter where you are."

JAX

'I Love You Phillip Morris' Trailer HD

WATER FOR ELEPHANTS-A LOVE STORY...?

"Water for Elephants"
Plot: A veterinary student abandons his studies after his parents are killed and joins a traveling circus as their vet.
Got your attention?
Yes? This is a rather unique interpretation from the novel by the same name by Sara Gruen.
Director Francis Lawrence takes us on a visually stunning journey behind the scenes of a circus troupe with all of its highs and lows covered.
The three main players are Robert Pattinson (aka hunky Twilight bloke)as "Jacob" the Polish med student whose life takes a drastic turn.
Reese Witherspoon (needs no introduction)as the Circus' Star Attraction "Marlena Rosenbluth" and last but certainly not least Ring Master extroidinaire "August" played with precise precision by Christoph Waltz.
This movie deserves a lot of praise. It takes us right into the very heart that was America during the Great Depression and Prohibition era.
A time of total despair for most and outrageous opulance for others.
I went along with the plot even if it was slightly far fetched. I've never heard of a Polish speaking Elephant before. Have you?
I found the old man (Hal Holbrook)at the start reliving his youth to an overly sympathetic bystander predictable. So too was the seen it all before ending.
However,the CGI was magnificent and afforded us spectacular visions of train escapes,lively circus antics and poignant moments between man and beast.
Mr Pattinson was well cast as the sinfully attractive young man at a crossroads in his life. It was important that this part was played with an element of subtelty. This gave room for the real star of the show to shine.
Mr Christoph Walz was plucked from obscurity from German TV shows by Quentin Tarantino. Quentin magically cast the Austrian born actor in his movie "Inglorious Basterds".
Walz went onto win a shitload of awards for his daring role as "Col. Hans Landa"(including both the BAFTA and the OSCAR for Best Supporting Actor.)
In "Water for Elephants" we are treated to more of Walz stunning talent. The character of "August" is a layered and complex one. This ripe performer shows us the devastating effects of a Jekyl and Hyde personality.A truly intimidating and unpredictable force that delivers relentless terror to all those around him. Well done Walz!! What's next?
Caravan park pretty Reese Witherspoon graduates to a mature sexier version of herself
in this movie.
I've never really understood what all the fuss is about with Reese."Walk the Line" Phlease! However I believe she really did her homework this time.
"Marlena" is someone who never recovered from being abandoned at birth. August who "saves" her and showers her with fame and money is therefore forgiven a multitude of sins. Her whole life is at the mercy of one man. That sucks when that one man is nutty as a fruit cake!
Enter kind hearted,animal loving "Jacob"....
Inevitably,she has no choice to fall desparately in love with him.
This is one area where the film really falls down for me. This movie is actually marketed as a Love story. Believe me folks this is no "Gone with the Wind" or " Bridges over Madison County"
There are a number of ingredients for a good love story. For example the delicious build up of sexual tension or even a decent snog scene. Neither is apparant here.
Reece shows more affection for the bloody horses and elephants! When she finally declares "I love you" to "Jacob" its so painfully contrived.
Shame really. These two visually make a beautiful couple.
I suppose with Walz stealing every scene,nothing really compares anyway.
Not to worry. It was still a pleasurable way to kill two hours.

GO FOR IT!


JAX

I'M STILL HERE Exclusive Diddy Clip HD

I'M STILL HERE....SORT OF.

Nothing like a good documentary I say.
Casey Afflecks directorial debut "Im still here" is no exception.
I must admit that I had been deliberately avoiding this one on the shelf. I knew little of its content; merely that it was a parody on the life of Joaquin Phoenix (formally known as Leaf Phoenix)
I've long held a crush for this unique,dark creature. I feared this would be overturned by watching this obvious attempt at mock humor.
Lucky for me, I was curiously engaged for the entire feature.
The beginning of the film showed real life footage of a much younger Joaquin tentatively jumping off a cliff. This all under the watchful eye of his father. Its sigificance hazy but touching all the while.
I loved this original move to use real life footage within the framework of a mockumentary.
Then the fun really began.
Joaquin, the real life actor has never really dabbled in the comedy arena. This seems a shame.
From his first outcry of self obsessed,beaten up bloated actor;I knew I was in for a good time.
The plot for "Im not here" revolves around the announcement that Joaquin is retiring from the world of movies to concentrate on his career change into the world of Hip Hop music.
Joaquin typifies the "I cant get no satisfaction" performer to a tea.
It soon becomes obvious that this is not a true interpretation of the life of Joaquin Phoenix himself. Rather a conglomerate of actors and their oversized egos everywhere.
The film devised by Casey Affleck (Ben's brother) and Phoenix came about through their amazement that alot of people believed Reality TV shows were unscripted.
This insight into the Entertaiment industry is by no means exaggerated. All this air kissing,froth n bubble, defecating on Managers heads truly exists.
As we follow this highly volatile hedonist around we cant help but feel his pain. His inability to be truly "heard" on the Letterman show and his desire to break the mould of actor to musician being painfully denied again and again.
One of my favourite parts is Puff Daddy's foul derision to Phoenix's demo tape.
P Daddy calmly asking the actor "Why do you want to do this?" Phoenix looking perplexed. Classic.
The end of the film comes full circle with Phoenix revisiting his roots and sharing a beer with his father but no conversation.
The final scene is symbolic. Symbolic of what Im not sure. It doesn't matter.
What matters here is the underlying message. Despite its comic prowess,"I'm still here" holds a strong message about the myth that fame carries.
You have to be very very careful with fame.
Growing up around fame, I witnessed its turbulant nature. Its ability to take and give in the same instance.When your hot,your on top of the world when your too high and addicted to drugs there's no safety net..The real Joaquin witnessed the destruction fame had on his equally talented brother River (may he rest in peace)
I urge you all (especially parents and their teenage children who LOVE "Keeping up with the Kadarshians")to look at this real depiction of Celebrity. KIds,its a long painful road if you wanna Rock n' roll (even harder on the way down)


JAX

JACK NICHOLSON-CARNAL KNOWLEDGE-Domestic fight

I LOVE this honest bit of film making. The writing and performances makes it so real.
THIS is how couples communicate not the schmaltzy shit you see in "The Note Book"

JAX

RED DOG: WOOF WOOF

At the conclusion of this movie, I finally decide to relinquish my attatchment to the opinions of Margaret Pomeranz and David Stratton.
On reading a review,it was noted that both critics agreed for once and gave this Australian feature 4 1/2 stars a piece.
Incredible I thought.
Off I raced to see this supposed wonderful true story of a dog who saved a town called Dampier in WA back in the seventies.
After 92 minutes of complete crap I was deflated and confused.
The only conclusion I could reach was that it was a political move by the ABC presenters to put their full backing behind ANY Australian feature that comes out.
Which in my recall,they generally do.
COP OUT FOLKS!
I'd like to ask Kriv Stenders ( the director) are you trying to be the next Baz Lurhman or what?
This film,like a lot of Australian films translates like a celluloid musical. Remember
"Muriel's Wedding", "Strictly Ballroom" "Priscila Queen of the desert" and more recently the Aboriginal comedy "Bran nue dae" to name a few.
Their forced air of patriotism and overacting makes me CRINGE!
I personally do not respond to films of this nature (except perhaps for Terence Stamp's performance in Priscilla)
In my mind, a musical is much more powerful in a theatrical medium. The message simply does not translate when its placed in a movie format.
Christ, remember "Les Miserables"(the movie)!!!!??
In saying that,"Red Dog" did have one redeeming feature; its great soundtrack. (available now at all good music stores)
The story it seems is based on a red kelpie/cattle dog who became well known to the locals that encountered him throughout the Western Australia/Pilbara area.
In truth,Red Dog travelled alone a lot but still assumed two owners during his life time. Writers Louis de Bernières and Daniel Taplitz decided to focus on the second owner John Stazzonelli, played by American Josh Lucas ("A beautiful mind", "Hulk")
John in real life was very different than the depiction by Josh Lucas. He was actually a New Zealand native with three children who was extremely abusive to his wife.
In direct contrast,the movie portrays a love story between Johns character and his wife played by Rachel Taylor. (Yes she just keeps popping up)Getting better Rach,just want a little bit more earnesty in those beautiful eyes please.
This movie has no soul. These fabricated stories that Red Dog saved lives and searched for his missing master until his own death did not speak to me. There was always too much of a comical edge aligned for it to hold any dramatic value.

In fact, when Red Dog was about to die from strychnine poisoning, the whole cast broke into a corny version of "living and a workin on the land" ????!!!!
I also detested the CGI fight scenes between the cat and Red Dog. They were absolutely ludicrous!
Confirming for me that "Red Dog" was a big fat turkey!
Dont bother!
If you want to see a couple of moving Australian flicks with animals try "Storm Boy" or "Pharlap"

Until then

JAX

GOTYE-THE NEXT ONE MAN BAND.

Hello there.
Yes I know this is a movie blog but Im gonna break the rules today.
Today Im gonna talk about a very talented musician known as "Gotye".
A couple of weeks ago, a friend of mine asked if I wanted to go to Sydney to see Gotye (still cant seem to pronounce it) at the Sydney Opera House.
It was his National release for his third album "Making Mirrors"
"Who?" I said.
He explained simply by showing me his latest film clip for "Somebody I used to know" (see video)
Sure I was mesmerized by the atypical visuals but more so by his piercing powerful voice. The film clip also features a brief cameo by the also talented New Zealand singer songwriter "Kimbra"
Its the sort of song you fall in love with on first impact and continue to play to death. I alledge I'm still not sick of it.
So off I went to Sydney with a vested interest.
I was NOT disappointed. Gotye's performances at the Sydney Opera House coincided with National Animation week.As an audience, we were not only treated to the magnificent sounds of Gotye but a large backdrop of animations that seemed to directly coincide with each song.
I was particularly moved by the animation for the song "Don't worry,we'll be watching you".
A young girl who is lost in the forest and like "Where the wild things are" finds her home again with the help of her forest friends.
Gotye writes beautiful lyrics. If he's not making us aware of the state of the planet in his first single "Eyes wide open". He sings earnestly about the dichotomy of Love. The harshness of a break up in "Somebody I used to know" and the gratitude of new love in both "I feel better" and "Save Me"
His unique voice is backed up by a tribute to music of generations past. His superb talent of sampling other work/artists creates a unique and enticing sound for the audience.
Like all great artists,one must have good people around them. Gotye is no exception.
With up to 15 equally talented souls on stage with him. He also notes the tremendous family support he receives. His Dad even doing the artwork for this latest album.
I was particularly fond of his three tracksuit clad backup male singers that were also able to kick some arse on their own individual instruments.
With that said and done, No Gotye= NO SHOW. A multi skilled lyricist,instrumentalist and singer got this once sad girl a tapping her feet to the beat.
For that Wally (his real name), I humbly Thankyou.xxx
His performance was worthy of the 5 minute standing ovation he received.

Buy his latest album "Making Mirrors" NOW
His other solo albums include "Like Drawing Blood", "Boardface" and Mixed Blood"
This magical man also manages to fit in time to play with a rockin band called The Basics.
CHECK THEM OUT TOO.


JAX

Gotye- Somebody That I Used To Know (feat. Kimbra)- official film clip (HD)

An Idiot Abroad Mexico - Cowboys

KARL PILKINGTON in An Idiot Abroad.

TWO WORDS.
FUCKING HILARIOUS!
I knew very little of Karl Plkington before I arrived at this series. I can now safely say I have indeed met my soul mate.
KARL is a wonderfully honest,hilarious doubting Thomas that leaves us begging for more of his eternal whingeing.
The idea for the show arised from good buddies Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant agreeing to send Karl to visit the Seven wonders of the world. Fair enough you say?
The trouble is Karl is a man who likes to stay in his comfort zone and has rarely left his hometown of Manchester for nearly 40 years albeit for some childhood Holidays in Wales.
Ricky cheekishly admits he WANTS Karl to hate every moment of it; if for his own amusement.
Accordingly Karl does and Ricky and Stephen are constantly sending their comrade up the garden path. Yelling at him down the line "this is not a holiday mate"-GET TO WORK!
Shoving him in caves,sticking him on camels and promising him a night in the Honeymoon suite. The suite turns out to "smell like shit" and have an ensuite shed. Here we see Karl hit an all time low.
What I love about this series is its commitment. It had a very clear vision and it was executed by Mr Pilkington with an innate precision.
Ive long debated whether Karl himself is a "character" that comically pandas to the needs of Gervais and Merchant.
If he is -so what! Give the guy an Oscar!
If he's actually himself-where do I meet him!?
It so refreshing to be introduced to someone who literally cant lie. He does not claim to be a well travelled Historian like his colleagues. Rather, a man with simple tastes who calls it as he sees it.
The reason it resonates is;its often what we the audience are actually thinking ourselves.
For instance,why take a 10 hour camel ride when you can drive there in half an hour!!???
Yes Karl you were certainly out of your comfort zone on several occasions. But you dug deep and as an audience member I'm truly grateful.
Despite the constant tyranny,there were moments of real tenderness. Karl was able to laugh at himself (not a common thing for Poms)He had a natural affinity with the people he came across and this was clearly reciprocated. I loved his meeting with the Elephant Baba. A potentially difficult interview which Pilkington breezed through. I also enjoyed his brief time with an Indian guru who insisted he swim in the Ganges and reminded Karl "to love himself".
Good advice for all.
When Ricky mentions to Karl that Sky 1 are keen to do another season-Karl VEHEMENTLY protests!
He feels he couldn't possibly after all the fuck ups.
Luckily for us there will be a new series based around the idea of a Bucket List. Things people want to do before they die. I heard a rumour Karl will be gracing Australian shores to swim with sharks......
An Idiot Abroad gets 5 stars from me. Sure not every episode had me rolling in the isles but most of the stuff here did. A deep throaty,thigh slapping laugh that simply heals.
Do yourself a favour people and introduce yourself to the uncompromising idiot abroad-
MR KARL PILKINGTON- NOT a simple man!

JAX

Karl Pilkington in An Idiot Abroad: Sky 1 Trailer

WATCH OUT FOR THESE FUNNY BUGGERS!

Rob Brydon & Julia Davis in 'HUMAN REMAINS' - now on iTunes

This is ROB Bryrdon making me laugh.
This is a fantastic series folks.
Check it out.

JAX
XXX

THE TRIP----DONT TAKE THIS ONE.

I know I know it's been a while.
Ive been busy. Doin what? I'll never tell.
"The trip" directed by Michael Winterbottom (see "9 songs" above) is a complete and utter waste of time.
I ran to the cinema to tune into two of Britan's finest comic talents. Rob Bryrdon (known for shows such as "Marion and Geoff" and "Gavin and Stacey") and Steve Coogan (aka Alan Partridge himself)
This comic duo previously hit a home run in "Tristram Shanty-A cock and bull story" also directed by Winterbottom.
This time however they did not even come close.
The fault I believe lies in the whole premise. Two comedians playing themeselves on a food tour whilst giving each other shit and doing innane impersonations.
Ok, maybe acceptable for a 3 minute comedy sketch. NOT for a 109 minute movie!
I actually walked out at the 98 minute mark.
I dont even believe that Coogan or Bryrdon were playing fictitious versions of themeselves.
Comedians by nature are a dark introverted lot. Anyone ever seen Rowan Atkinson or John Cleese interviewed? Pass the prozac already.!

Bryrdon was so painfully happy I could of punched him. Winterbottom then made the fatal mistake of ensuring Coogan was the polar opposite. Believing that conflict makes for rivetting viewing.
Sure sometimes but this is a comedy for Chrisssake!
Bryrdon came off as a manic,lecherous chump. While Coogan a wet,misearable whinger.
I did not feel any of the chemistry that these two have previously shared on screen and TV.
Rather a forced vocal sparing match that I could care less of the outcome.
Winterbottom did however provide us with the most beautiful images of Northern England. Who would of thought-?!? I believed it to be all council estates and fish n chip shops.
The attention to the food shots was fascinating. Giving us a wonderful insight into a unique 13 part degustation meal.
Like in "9 songs", Winterbottom used sex to disguise the fact that there was no real plot or character interaction. In "The trip" he uses the food, beautiful women and the scenery to do the same thing. Sorry Mike,not this time.
Revisit your film school notes Winterbottom.
A film maker should never assume that just because you put two very funny people in front of a film crew then presto you have made a comedy.
You have not. What you have done is made an intensely bad comedy and there's is nothing worse than that my friends.

Skip this one.


JAX

BLUE VALENTINE-NOBODY BABY BUT YOU AND ME...

This film is marvellous!
I knew Id be in for a treat if David Stratton was giving it four stars. Furthurmore, it had gained a series of International nominations for acting and directing.
"Blue Valentine" is a profound love story shown to us from both the past and present.Warm fuzzy beginnings are juxtaposed with tense and violent outbursts.
It stars the angelical Michelle Williams as "Cindy" the tortured prom queen and the delicious Ryan Gosling as "Dean" the lovable fuck up.
The chemistry between these two players is palpable. They skillfully illustrate the addictive nature of any co dependent relationship-where you cant live with or without one other.
This chemistry was all thanks to their director Derek Cianfrance. Dererk is a former documentary maker who goes well beyond the call of duty. "Blue Valentine" became a 12 year project for Derek. After several re writes;he assumed best friend status with both Michelle and Ryan. Forcing them to reevaluate themselves in order to bring legitimacy to the characters they were portraying.
Derek challenged the actors with improvisational experiments forcing them to sink AND swim.
He was relentless in his pursuit for authenticity. To be immersed in their environment,both actors lived together with their pseudo daughter on a budget for a months time. Some of the dialogue we see exchanged between the two is actually the first take that was filmed. As an audience we are served REAL people with real reactions.
Thank you Derek.
There simply isn't enough of this kind of film making around.
The premise for the film wasn't entirely original.
Who cares!
Every frame was beautifully and originally executed.
As far as Im concerned,despite Dawsons Creek, Michelle Williams has not put a foot wrong as an actor. She was born to be on the screen and is captivating as Cindy. She carefully demonstrates how even the most beautiful and talented being can think so little of themselves.Continuing to make bad choices their whole lives. All the while questioning why everything always turn to shit. Cindy is not alone.
Ryan. This is no "Notebook" boys and girls. Ryan was able to play an earnest loving father and husband. Unfortunately with no direction in his life and alcohol as his fuel; he could easily morph into someone slightly reminiscent of Jake Lamotta.
Despite their genuine adoration for each other and their little girl "Frankie" played by Faith Wladyka (well done Faith,the lisp was a little over done)these two just couldn't meet in the middle. Are we sad, dissapointed, disillusioned?
No.
For me the message is clear.
"Blue Valentine" is a wake up call to all you love hopefuls.
At the end of the day,life is YOUR journey,your choices.
In this way the catch cry of the film "Nobody baby but you and me" is deconstructed.
A relationship is there to enhance that journey NOT fill in the blanks.
You cant blame someone if YOU forgot to take out the trash.
You dig?


See it NOW!


Jax
xxxx

9 SONGS

Hello my friends.
So we meet again.
The movie I want to talk about today is interesting to say the least.
"9 songs" opened to intense controversy. For the first time since porn do we see two actors actually "doin it" "makin love", "rubbin uglies"etc (no flesh colored undies or nuttin)
Despite the controversy,it formed part of the Official selection at both Sundance and Cannes in 2004.
This 71 minute feature includes live footage of nine concerts (my favourite being the irrepresible Franz Ferdinand)
These concerts form the backdrop for a frenzied sexual affair between young American student "Lisa" played by Margo Stilley and glaciologist "Matt" played by Kieran O'Brien.
Director and writer Michael Winterbottom (of "24 hour party people" fame)gets straight to the sex stuff.
He doesnt really bother with a script and there is only the vague remnants of a plot.
Nevertheless,I found the sex scenes to be intensely captivating. Sure, I was blushing a little but it was so REAL!
Reminiscent of what the Europeans do just a little more X rated.
He show us how sexual desire for another can be both intoxicating and addictive.
All of this and it has nothing to do with Love.
It doesnt seem to matter that there is no real character development here. The sex and the music are enough to steal the show.
Like most true tales,all good things eventually must come to an end.
Lisa was annoying at times. But what young,mentally unstable coke head isn't?After a while, Matt realizes he'd had his fill and that he is simply no match for Lisa's vibrator.
No hard feelings, just lots of horny memories.
Why not!?
A mature man's "Dude where's my dildo?"

Give it a go!

JAX

TRUE BLOOD SEASON THREE-GIMME MORE!

Well it had been a long 18 months since my last installment of TRUE BLOOD.
Author/Psychiatrist Scott Peck taught me one of the best ways to endure this difficult life is to delay gratification.
In this way, the eventual outcome is more fullfilling and longlasting.
Have you noticed how the chocolate cake tastes sweeter when you haven't had any for a while....?
Similarily,how tender your lovers touch seems when they've been away for a week?
So too,no True Blood for a while results in some intensely salivating viewing!
It is wrong to describe True Blood simply as a show about Vampires. It is so much more than that.
With a creator like Alan Ball,how could it not be?
This man could make a 10 part series on "Mr Ed" and have us begging for more!
We are able to access his worlds so easily,that it makes it all the more difficult to pack up at the end of each season.
Funnily enough; I sat glued to a TV for 10 days while I watched his entire series "Six Feet Under"
In season three,we are introduced to more good (Fairys) and bad (werewolfs)supernatural powers.
All the favourites return for this sexy bloody feast.
Bloody,yes, gory no. Pornographic not,horny YES- me,indeed!
There was plenty of fresh meat in this season. In particular Joe Mangenellio as kindly werewolf "Alcide". Grrrrrr Grrrrrr!
Season three was able to be raunchy and romantic at the same time.
The scene where Bill and Sookie finally reunite is wonderfully warm and realistic.( It probably helps that these two are married in real life.)
The stand out casting decision for this season was Denis O hare as "Russell Eddington" The 3,000 year old Vampire King of Mississipi. WOW!
Its no surprise this guy has won several awards including a Tony.. A dynamo performance from start to finish. Denis skillfully demonstrates all that a Vampire king is:horny,seductive,cunning,beguiling. Denis-your a magician!
Under Balls commission,writers Alexander Woo and Raelle Tucker give us some wonderfully funny and poignant dialogue.
For instance – "Jason" to "Hoyt"- “Never thought I was really smart enough to get depressed.” or – "Russell"to "Eric": Throughout history I have aligned myself with or destroyed those humans in power, hoping to make a dent in mankind’s race to oblivion.What other creature actively destroys his own habitat?”
Its funny,informative and most of all original.
I cannot wait for Season four! (but I will)

JAX

TRUE BLOOD- SEASON THREE- COMING SOON.

LARRY MOSS-THOSE WHO CANT DO- TEACH

A modern day Stanislavski?

I think not.

Rather, a failed thespian who never conquered his OWN stage fright.

Larry,do us a favour and stop watching Oprah.

The best teachers lead by example.

You and your New age cattle calls are not welcome here!

JAX

PORT ARTHUR-a picture tells 1,000 words....

THE ROMANTICS

Hi folks,
Sorry to have been so long. I have been busy exploring this beautiful State.
Difficult to return and assume my life as a Food service assistant once more.
Gotta pay the rent I guess.
Any hoo, I just sat down and got through the above mentioned title by Galt Niederhoffer (you reckon he's Jewish?)
One should always be skeptical when there is a new release with well known actors that no one has heard of.
Inevitably, I wasted 96 minutes enduring average acting and tedious dialogue.
This movie tried to tell a story that has already been told a million times. Aka "The Bill Chill", "St Elmos fire""Threesome" "Rachel getting married" etc
The stage was set for a sexy romp where a group of former college students who have all slept with each other delight in doing it all over again.
A badly written script has the effect of a deflated souffle'. If you dont put the right ingredients in and pay constant attention you are gonna to have a dud result.
This can often happen when not enough attention is payed to a characters' backstory. The character appears two dimensional.
As were all of the contenders here. Luckily they were all lovely to look at.
I did like aspects of Elijah Wood's character as an insecure smart ass. He was almost bordering on intellectually disabled. But it worked.
Another standout was the lithe Anna Paquin. She has come along way since her Oscar winning performance in "The Piano"
( I felt she was undeserving at the time)
Her character of "Lila " was wonderfully constructed. An unemotional bride to be who keeps her eye firmly on the prize at all times.
The prize in this case was the groom "Tom" played by Jonhny Knoxville doppleganger Josh Duhamel.
Candice Bergan was a treasure as always but I fear she can no longer pass for characters in their 50's anymore.
The cover of the box clearly stated:"Katie Holmes does the performance of her life"
I dont think so.
If this was Katie's finest hour ,she should return to Scientology services with Suri pronto.
A good love story should light you up and have you enveloped in the sexual tension.
Desparately clinging to the outcome of will they end up together or not...
Sorry folks this aint no "Gone with the Wind".
Thats a no from me.

JAX

People never really leave us xx

ENOUGH REALITY TV ALREADY

Yes I know this is a movie blog,but Im in the mood for a RANT!
Reality TV has been around for a while now. One of the first shows was the "Up" Series by Michael Apted (1964)
A documentary style show following the lives of several UK children every seven years.
Since then, we have had countless variations on a theme.
The reality style show comes in many catergories:documentary,talent search,hidden camera,lifestyle change,spoof to name a few.
In 2011,both free to air and Pay TV is saturated with this type of viewing.
Dont get me wrong ,I have spent many hours following potential superstars in "Australian Idol".Ive raced home to see if there has been any action in the spa on "Big Brother".Ive even relished the moment when "The cheaters" crew corner the offending spouse.
But have we gone too far?
With titles like "Ego Trips Miss Rap Surpreme" and "My Big Fat obnoxious boss" suggests we have.
Something has clearly gone awry.
We no longer see anything we can genuinely react to.
You know why?
Because we are no longer provided with authentic viewing.
Gone are the days of in depth interviews and quirky pranks (as seen in the original "Candid Camera")
Now we see people physically transformed beyond recognition, grossly overweight contestants work out till they throw up and boring conversations between spoilt brats (all of which are scripted anyway)
ENOUGH!
Many of these shows provide short cuts to fame and money.
By the same token,they harness low self esteem. Contestants are constantly being forced to compete with one another while their inadequacies are overtly highlighted.
These so called expert judges give me the shits too.
Piss off Tyra Banks-you is NO Naomi Campbell!
Join me and declare that you will ONLY watch Reality TV if its on ABC or SBS.
(For my International readers, I suppose the odd episode of "Whose your Daddy" cant do much harm.

KEEP IT REAL Y'ALL

JAX

IF I CAN DREAM

The last two weeks on Earth have shattered my confidence that all will be well.
I do NOT understand why the Royal Wedding is such a big fucking deal. The Royals aren't even in charge anymore!
We still act like a Monarchy;a people who bow down to the aristocracy as they kindly wave at us from their jewelled carriage.
People argue that in these troubled times we need some light relief.
Why not throw us another stimulus package or turn up the Bob Marley!
DONT make us sit there for 5 hours watching a bunch of stiffs pretending to have a good time!
The same day as the broadcast; there was a tornado in the United states that claimed the lives of around 280 people.
This did not even get two minutes of footage from the National News Broadcast.
The anchor was quick to get back to a survey on what dress Kate would be wearing.
On May Day,we were stunned to hear of the extermination of a Mr Osama Bin Laden.(founder of Al-Queda-a fundamentalist Muslim regime)
My first reaction was,who said YOU could.!?!
Doesn't every murderer,rapist,mind fucker deserve a fair trial? Their own day in court? Isnt that what the Law is for?
No.
The Americans had waited 10 years for this moment.
It was THEIR constituitional right to serve up justice any way they wanted.
5 other people were killed in the raid (4 of which were unarmed)This seems to pale in comparison to the 3,000 odd civillians that lost their life in 9/11.
Unfortunately,whose counting?
Is not EVERY human life of equal importance?
Of course it is.
Unfortunately,War does not rate it.
Part of the definition of WAR is as follows:
War generally involves two or more organized groups or parties (often, nations). Such a conflict is always an attempt at altering either the psychological or material hierarchy of domination or equality between such groups. In all cases, at least one participant (group) in the conflict perceives the need to either psychologically or materially dominate the other participant.
In this way, War reaches no conclusion.Any party prepared to go to War is not prepared to EVER see the others point of view.
Basically each party says,I see you and I RAISE you Motherfucker!!
Its a fatal roundabout.
The killing of Osama Bin Laden does nothing more than add fuel to the fire.
The Word of God has gradually become undone in a deadly game of Chinese Whispers.
The outcome undecided.


"If history repeats itself, and the unexpected always happens, how incapable must Man be of learning from experience."
George Bernard Shaw

JAX

LONG LIVE THE DVD SHOP!

As you all know I've recently moved to the beautiful Tasmania. Ive come here to get back to nature and to find God.
Well I did all that in the first day. Now what?
Im initially struck by the very unique breed of "Tasmanian"person.
They are quick with a joke (usually not funny)or to light up your smoke (which is unfortunate as Ive already quit)
Ive also sacrificed the booze and the bad boys in a place where the B&S ball was invented!
HELP!
I havent exactly been able to fit in at my cafe job either.
I suppose it doesnt help being the only 35 soon to be 36 year old there.
Alas, a 35 year old who wont sing kareoke or cant roll joints...
I assure them that Ive had a very textured life thus far. Lots of travel and study.
I am NOT just a barista for Goddsake!
I write a very successful blog (with all of its 6 followers)and I also plan to audition for the role of Lady Anne in the Playhouses' up and coming production of Richard 111.
Oh yeah I'm real busy.
Not.
The fact is my average day to date is -
wake,
eat AMAZING fruit,
work,
DVD,
sleep.
The DVD part is my favourite.
I have discovered a huge stadium building called VIDEO CITY. Every title Ive requested,they've come to the party.
When friends are nowhere to be found,Video City always has its light on.
As soon as I walk in and smell that stale carpet smell; I go weak at the knees.
Im home once more.
The tension in my shoulders starts to disappear as I pivot between the Foreign and Thriller sections.
I try to contain my excitement that Season 3 of "True Blood" will be in store in less than three days!
On my days off, I can spend a record 2 hours deliberating on which three titles to get for the mid week special.
A day spent in a DVD shop is a happy one. Made more complete with some portly pimply faced attendant and a bag of microwave popcorn.
Off to bed to commence a series called "The Wire"

Heard its FULL ON.

I say BRING IT ON!

JAX

The Unbearable Lightness of Being- Tomas' Poem

Aaaaah sweet Daniel. I used to squint my eyes and pretend this was me OVER and OVER.
More to come on this remarkable actor....xx

IRREVERSIBLE-TIME DESTROYS EVERYTHING.

Hello there.
I know I have been a little quiet of late.
Basically, there has been nothing that has rocked me to the core.
As I get older,I aim to be more succinct and not waste words.
The following feature however could not pass by without comment.
"Irreversible" is a 2002 French feature directed by Gaspar Noe.
My only prior knowledge was that it had a feature length rape scene in it.
As a woman, I inevitably refrained for a long time.
Eventually, curiousity won and I endured a 94 minute visual and emotional assault like no other.
This movie, like "Memento" is set in rewind. Beginning with the gruesome outcome and finishing with an optimistic start.
Each scene is shot with multiple takes before being digitally edited. This gives each scene the illusion of being shot in one take only.
The eratic cinematography at the beginning left me feeling scattered and a little queasy. A dingy Gay bar where ANYTHING goes set the scene for the most horrific execution Ive ever witnessed. (and I've seen Full Metal Jacket AND Passion of the Christ!)
I couldnt quite fathom the choices that Mr Noe had made. I had to look away several times during this scene.
Furthurmore, I pondered could it get any worse?!!!?
"Alex" then appears; played by the ridiculously good looking Monica Bellucci. (She's also a freakishly talented actress too)
Granted I knew it was coming;but found the sexual and physical torture of Monica's character unbearable. The director really soaks up the moment and does not censor one second. As the audience we are condemned to be in that very underpass with her without being able to help.
It confirmed to me that any man or woman who takes sexual advantage over another deserves the same fate as a murderer.
Without question.
This abuse of power may allow the victim to eventually recover physically but will permanently stain them emotionally. Fracturing all their relationships with others.
Just when I'd had enough,I saw one of the most tender celluloid love scenes between "Alex" and "Marcus" (played by Vincent Cassell-my pin up of the month)Interestingly enough this pair is married in real life.
We see them realistically chat and caress "postcoitus". The attention to detail is exquisite. Bellucci's hair, ever so greasy from her afternoon of ardent lovemaking with her new boyfriend.
Rachel also explains that she might be pregnant and we realize how both characters would be ok with it.
Having a relationship outside of the movie gives an actor so much to draw from. Hence the relationship is so much more real for the audience.Look at other successful screen/life pairings-Hepburn/Tracey, Taylor/Burton Allen/Keaton etc.
This film is powerfully obvious but equally symbolic.
Its juxtaposed plot and strong themes require no commentary from me.
We are sad that we see the fate of our protaganists violently spewed out. It stings even worse when we see them revelling in pleasure the very afternoon before it happens.
The essence of IRREVERSIBLE is simple-
such is life but ultimately in the end "time destroys everything"
Watch with caution.
JAX

So I Married An Axe Murderer

Another fave. I particularly liked the late Phil Hartman's cameo as a prison warden.

JAX WANTS MORE FOLLOWERS!

Gotta love the English...

THE SWIMMER

Denial ain't just a river in Egypt.

MARK TWAIN


Last week my elder sister informed me to get a hold of a 1968 film with Burt Lancaster called "The Swimmer" As she is my older sister, that's exactly what I did.
Its hard to explain the plot plausibly. A good looking bloke in his speedos goes from house to house swimming in each of his neighbours pools.
At first,we see how popular protaganist "Neddy"(played by a chiseled Burt lancaster) is with the folks of New England. He cant seem to make a false move.If he's not cantouring graciously in a green field with a beautiful horse; he's flirting outrageously with a young beautiful blonde.
You are forced to question the symbolism.
As the movie progresses,things start to take a nose dive. The horse run lands him tits up and the young blonde flees the scene when she feels that "Neddy" wants much more than friendship...
His friends begin to turn against him.They demand money and make glaring accusation that leave "Neddy" bewildered and confused.
Each scene is painted for us by cinematographer David L Quaid. He parades us through bright green manicured lawns to dark and vacant spaces. He also illuminates the grey archways we each pass through on lifes highway. Stunning work!
His ex mistress is cold and full of vengeance, the family have disappeared and the Norman Rockwell painting has long since faded.
Another cynic of Neddys is "Joan" A small role played by a much younger Joan Rivers. Well done Rivers! You were wonderful as the hard drinking,chain smoking New Yorker who wasnt going to be "played" any more! Why have you not been given more screen time?!?
The message of this film is not overtly clear but the vision is mesmerizing.
You as the audience cant help but be allured into it.
The character of "Neddy" was always going to be a hart act to swallow. How can you take a hottie in swimming trunks seriously when everyone else is fully clad?
The only man to pull it off is Mr Lancaster himself. Until now, I had only seen him in a 1986 feature called "Tough guys" with Kirk Douglas. An average exposition on two ex cons trying to find their way in the world of modern crime. Crap!
When I did my research;here was the lead in "The Birdman of Alcatraz" and an oscar winner for a flick called "Elmer Gantry."
Lancaster was crucial to the success of this film. This philosophical narrative required an actor with a theatrical background who was prepared to skillfully overplay each scene. That he did.
I believe this film would wonderfully translate to the stage. The theatrical dialogue is there, you would just have to get a little creative with the set.
Burt Lancaster makes us feel sorry for him. A highly challenging task for any actor.
He illustrates the power that denial plays in any humans life. A person in denial appears blissfully unaware of the wreckage falling on top of them.
Denial in this way IS a distorted choice.
DENIAL is dangerous-it kills and prevents.
This is all too evident in the final scene
Nothing survives denial.
A strong film before its time that holds an important message for ALL of us today.

Here and now, Jax.

THE SWIMMER

Clarke Griswold cuts sick

To me National Lampoons Family Vacation is the funniest in the series. Accordingly Chevy Chase is one of the funniest guys EVER. These quirky comedies from the 80's still warm the heart.
Now we're stuck with Martin Lawrence and "stoner" movies. BORING!
Ill take John Hughes and John Candy any day.
LOL !!!!

THIS IS WHERE EAT PRAY LOVE REALLY BELONGS

BIUTIFUL-AND THE HITS KEEP COMING

Outright this is a stunning piece of work by writer and director Alejandro Gonzalez Irrarritu. You may remember "21 Grams" or "Babel" perhaps?
Here is another interwoven tale that grips you from the opening scene.
I had not heard much about this film. Only that Javier Bardem was in it and he had scored Best Actor Award at Cannes.
Enough said.
In a tiny theatre on an Island, me and about 20 others were immobilised as we watched the life of "Uxbal" unfold. A most unusual life at that.
We soon realize that Uxbul is not long for this life .Yes we have seen man's struggle with mortality before but never quite like this.
Uxbul brings new meaning to the word "survivor"
He is a genuine Superman. Not only can he dodge and weave shady businessmen to put food on his childrens' plates.He can also see and communicate with the dead for extra pocket money.
Sounds implausible. A little. But it converts.
The most important story here is Uxbuls relationship with his family. The undying love for his children is what drives him to risk everything to ensure their ultimate survival.
We are also drawn into the complicated relationship he has with his ex wife "Marambra". A love affair that continues despite everything against it .
This part was thankfully given to actress Marciel Alvarez. "Marambra"is a women tormented by bipolar disorder. For such a common affliction we rarely see it demonstrated properly in film.
Sorry "Mr Jones" with Richard Gere does not count!
Marciel hits it right on the head. She skillfully eludes to the intoxicating nature of the manic state. So euphorically high with no rules and no fear of consequence. The reason most sufferers refuse their medication.
The cruel flipside leaves her unable to move and with few words left.
Thankyou for the truth Marciel.
Despite his invincibility, Uxbul struggles with his impending fate. His own connection with the other side fails to comfort him.
After furthur soul searching,Uxbul begins to surrender and he is able to let the Universe take over and do its job.
The final scenes provide a wondrous clarity that is both unexpected and uplifting.
As mere mortals,we will all endure the loss of those closest to us. This beautiful film assures us that we will all have the opportunity to return to them once more.
For that Alejandro, I am truly grateful.
For you Mr Bardem,no words can describe your limitless power as a performer.
Sorry Colin Firth,your colleague here deserved the golden statue more than you.
You are also the most desirable man with a pony tail I have ever seen!

Jax

Out of time-LIVE

I know this a blog about movies but I love how universal truths can be told from various mediums.
This song takes me back to being broke in London and falling head over heels for my flatmate.
He is no longer with us, but I am reminded of him every time I hear Damon sing....(which is often)
RIP Paddy xxx

Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf - Getting Angry, Baby?

RIP LOVELY LADY

Thanking you Mrs Taylor for sharing your wonderful gift with the world.
You personified true Hollywood and your legacy will forever shine.
Also,your portrayal of "Martha" made me put down the bottle once and for all.
Thankyou xxxx

BARNEYS VERSION...

I went along to the State Cinema in Hobart tonight to escape to a light hearted comedy. I came away with mascara running down my face and a resolution to tell my family and friends how much I love them.
"Barneys version" is based on the book by Mordecai Richler. A candid tale of love,life and scotch on the rocks.
In the early part of the film, we see Barney about to marry his chain smoking pregnant girlfiend "Clara". She has little capacity for love or commitment and when we meet her strict Rabbi father we can see why.
Barneys next attempt at love comes in the form of a Jewish Princess .This part is wonderfully constructed by chameleon Minnie Driver. Her homage to Nanny Fine hits the mark except for a few slips in accent. I enjoyed her insistence Barney clean his Long John Thomas before she even THINKS about performing fellatio.
Barney doesn't fit in here. This is especially clear when he brings his father Izzy Panofsky (played by my favourite Jewish man of all time-Dustin Hoffman) home to meet her parents.
Izzy calls it as he sees it; especially after a few drinks. This is in stark contrast to Minnies stuffy parents. Izzys raw candour makes for some of the most tender and funniest scenes in the film.
Its at his second wedding,Barney meets the true love of his love."Miriam" played by Rosamund Pike. Pike,a former bond girl has warmed our hearts in this feature. She seemed a little stifled at the beginning of the film, but this gave way to a hinged stoicness that was essential to the part.
From their first meeting,Barney concedes that he has finally fallen in love and is amazed that it can happen just like that. "Snap!"
Despite being married to his Jewish Princess, Barney relentlessly pursues "Miriam". Miriam eventually concedes.
She does however explain that no form of indiscretion would be tolerated. She is tortured from a father who continued to cheat on her mother. These continual insults to her mother made her sick of mind and body.
I found this amount of detail in the plot original and insightful.
The other interwoven plot is the relationship between Barney and his best mate "Boogie" played by Scott Speedman. Another relatively unknown actor.
Ladies,you may remember him from his four year run on "Felicity"
Boogie is both a flawed and endearing character. Speedman is fantastic as he depicts the lovable and frustrating nature of most addicts.
I always struggle with someone who is THIS talented and good looking at the same time. I think Speedman looked too young to be Giamattis friend.Nevertheless, Im still glad he was there to take his top off.
This wonderful film comes to an unexpected conclusion which I will not spoil for you.
The man that deserves 99% of credit (excluding crew)for the success of this film is the one and only PAUL GIAMATTI.
I love this man in every which way. He first came to my attention in a film called "American Slendour" with Hope Davis.
His big brown bug eyes and short stocky physique make me swoon.
Funnily enough he is the spitting image of my own first true love.
As an actor he exhibits extroidinary range. What about the fast talking boxing manager in "Cindarella Men" or the humble maintenance man in "Lady in Water".
Truly deserving of his recent Golden Globe award for actor in a comedy.
He can do it all. He even takes it up a notch as "Barney".He is able to believably show Barney physically age and mature (or maybe not) over four decades.
He makes us laugh,he makes us cry and he most of all shows us the shades of grey in between.
A heartwarming film that resonated deeply with me and illustrated once again that no one is perfect,but we are all in this together.
I think ya'll like it.
JAX xxx

On the Waterfront: Terry and Edie's kiss

ADJUSTMENT BUREAU

Not much to say, but what the fuck are fine actors like Matt Damon,Emily Blunt and Terence Stamp doing in THE worst movie I have ever seen? Any one? Why are these executives given a shit load of money to make such crap? Who do you think you are fooling you Yankee fat cats!?!
This movie does not warrant a review.
Perhaps a hot photo of Matt Damon.
Disturbed to be robbed if $17.
Do u know what you can do with that money....
Jax

VAN DIEMENS LAND-HUNGER IS A STRANGE SILENCE

Holy Shit Balls! This flick is fierce. Van Diemens Land caught my interest as Ive recently moved to the Island myself.
Writer and director Jonathan auf der Heide (a recent VCA grad) This feature is based on his film "Hells Gates" (short film of the same story)
Granted he had a shit hot cinemaotographer (Ellery Ryan) and producer (Maggie Miles)but his vision was clearly executed here.
From the opening scene of dense Tasmanian rainforest set to a Gaelic voiceover we know this ain't no "Man from Snowy River"
The movie depicts the startling revelations made by notorious convict Alexander Pearce. Pearce and 7 others escape into the wilderness to assume freedom from the harsh punishments inflicted at Sarah Island.(perhaps they should of stayed put)
We are initially entertained by the lively UK lads. Their shananigans and dirty jokes are endearing. Unfortunately the group soon realize the implications of their baron conditions.
Survival of the fittest.
The unthinkable becomes the only option left.
I think the strongest aspect of this film is the script. Yes it was only 24 pages,but every word- poignant. Describing" the men that God had forgotten"
The casting was spot on. Giving some lesser known Australian actors a lil limelight.
In particular Oscar Redding who plays Pearce. A talented man who also co wrote the script. Reddings rendition of Pearce illustrates that the convicted isnt always guilty.
My attention was also focused on character actor Arthur Angel. He plays sinister Sailor Robert Greenhill. A layered performance.Angel was adept at commisioning the death of his comrades. But was also seen in a moment of rare tenderness towards mate Matthew Travers (played by Paul Ashcroft)
This film was made for a song. Everyone believed in the project so much that they were prepared to freeze their tits off and work their guts out.
It payed off.
This film lingers like your first kiss.
Much is implied but nothing sensored.
NOT for the fainthearted.
Well done boys n girls.
Jax

SUMMER CODA

Friday night in a new town. No established peeps,little money. What to do... There is ALWAYS the DVD shop.
Id seen most of the new releases except for an Australian feature called "Summer Coda". The film is directed by newcomer Richard Gray and stars the delectable Alex Dimitriades and Rachel Taylor.
The plot revolves around a young American girl who returns home to Mildura for her fathers funeral. On the way she meets a second generation orange farmer.
A pair of star crossed lovers, I dont think so...
I must say I have never seen Rachel Taylor in anything but the headlines." Originally from Tassie she does most of her roles with an American accent that is bang on the money. (A little like our own Anthony Lapaglia)
Rachel is strikingly beautiful. Reminiscent of a young Ingred Bergman. She even manages to turn on a couple of tears when required. Unfortunately this seems to be the extent of it. The character of "Heidi" is one with ardent vulnerabilities. Rachel
addressed none of them.There was an opportunity for her to relish a broad range of emotions. She was out of her league.
Rachel Taylor,Stanislavski 101 as soon as you can!
As for my favourite Greek adonis, Alex plays "Michael". a man plagued by his past. A sweet natured soul who opens his house to Heidi but struggles to hand over his heart. Many other reviews have called his performance flat. I disagree. I think Alex has continued to hone his craft over the years. Here we see someone who began his career with a one dimensional "wog" character and is now adept at playing a broad range of characters with all their subtleties intact.
In "Summer Coda", "Michael" is constantly grappling with some aspect of his life. If its not his drinking problem; its his indecision over whether to bang "Heidi" in the bath or not.
Richard Gray was trying so hard to make a love story like Scorcese's " Age of Innocence". A precise film that showed how the touch of a hand can be so much more powerful than any sex scene could ever be. Unfortunately "Summer Coda's" script was long and boring. I was praying for some rampy pampy to liven things up a bit. No such luck.
I now realize I only saw the film two days ago and have now forgotten most of it.
I must applaud the hairy Angus Sampson for his portrayal of fruit picker "Frankie". A lovable lout who cant seem to get lucky with the ladies,try as he might. I hope to see much more of him in the future.
BTW do we have any other 50 plus women besides Jackie Weaver to cast as the mother/grandmother? Who nominated this women for an oscar?
Dont they realize she is playing the same character over and over and again?
I've always thought Australian film and theatre needs to take more risks with its casting. Im sick of always seeing the usual suspects. There are perfectly good acting schools out there churning highly accomplished performers who need a job!
Do it.
Richard Gray,your a little green but Im sure we will hear from you again.
Over and out.
Jax

kramer v/s kramer, scene

Peacock Trailer (2010) [HQ]

PEACOCK

I'm not quite sure what to say about this movie. I only heard about it from a fellow movie addict that seemed rather non plussed. Hence its direct to DVD status.
The title intrigued me and the cast didn't completely turn me off. After all, how many turkeys has Susan Sarandon made?
Peacock is the culmination of a few years work by writer/director Michael Lander.
Funnily enough the synopsis for this movie changed several times. The original script surrounded the trial and tribulations of a transvestite in the country. (Sound familiar)
Hence,we begin. Forget the transvestite,enter the confused young man with Multiple Personality disorder. (Oh shit-haven't we been here before too!!!) Christ why cant the Yanks come up with something original! Is it really that hard???!!!
The story unfolds to reveal nothing much. I love hearing the director say in the Extras "we really want to leave the audience with a lot of questions"
Why Michael? Why dont you just fucking answer them! Life is hard enough without shrouding it in MORE mystery.
"Peacock" is a strange attempt to fuse "Sybil" ""The three faces of Eve" and "Psycho".
The STAR of this movie is the relatively unknown Irish actor Cillian Murphy. He is often referred to as the "chameleon" in the buz for his complete physical and psychological transformation into character. "Peacock" is no exception.
Murphy who had to cover up his baby blues with boring brown contact lenses plays both "John Skillpa" a tortured young man who barely holds down his bank job and his alter ego "Emma" who lovingly protect and feeds him unlike his recently deceased mother.
It appears his "mother" starved him of many things.
"Peacock" picks up where "Psycho" left off. In fact the character of "John" is a carbon copy of the infamous "Norman Bates" in both demeanour and appearance. The notion of Emma as his protector is slightly more original. I must admit that Cillian Murphy is far more attractive as a woman than a man. Nice cheekbones!
The pair seem to have a nice synergy. That is until a fucking train ploughs into the backyard. PHALEAsE!!!!!
I wont spoil the plot,its already spoiled.
I WILL praise Cillian for his mighty effort. Here is a Christian Bale contender that we havent seen the last of. I always love Susan S and her enquiring hazel eyes. Ellen Page seems to have removed the large June Bug that was up her arse.
In terms of horn factor, Josh Lucas (yum yum) and yes I do like older men, Keith Carradine. (or Martha Plimptons dad)
Bill Pullman was delightful as Johns devilish boss at the Bank.
Good luck with this one people. All I know is that I fell asleep after 10 minutes and found myself watching the rest
begrudgingly in the morning.

Check ya,

Jax x

127 HOURS-SPOILER ALERT.

Its tight ass Tuesday. You know what that means; I can finally afford to see something on the Big Screen.
As its Oscar season; its a tough choice so I go with "127 Hours" directed by Danny Boyle. (You may remember such movies as"Trainspoting" and the multi award winning "Slumdog Millionaire")
The movie chronicles the real life story of American climber Aron Ralston and his torturous 127 hours in the desert.
The movie begins classic Boyle style. AR Rahman soundtrack,screen division and bright colors.
Ralston is played by the ever faithful James Franco. Never has he been just a pretty face for me. He is finally pissing with the big boys. (literally)
There is no mucking around here,just straight into the action.
After a nice dip in a cave pool with some fellow climbers,Ralston reaches his demise early in the piece. I think shit,they've got another 2 hours to fill here-tough job.
Boyle what are you gonna do? How are you going to make this interesting when we've just about had enough of men versus the elements movies?
Well he does just that. The casting of Franco is a gold move. Franco manages to be spot on with EVERY emotion one suffers in response to a trauma. This pretty boy is now on his meteoric rise.
Boyle does not edit the experience with Ralston.We see a man drink his own piss,hallucinate and scream painfully in frustration.We are on the edge of our seats in the amputation scene. Apparantly two people were treated by medics at the Toronto Film Festival.
What an original! Every time Franco hacks away at his arm and hits a raw nerve the soundtrack reacts with an adjoining screeching sound. NOT for the fainthearted.
There is a beautiful moment at the end of this scene. Once Franco is free again,he looks in wander at the remnants of his five day horror show. He quietly says "thankyou". Some may say he is saying thank you for his freedom. I agree but furthurmore he is thanking the experience. As strange as it sounds,any man that can endure this atrocity is surely more than a man.
In real life, Ralston is still a keen adventurer.
Sometimes I feel Boyle labours the point. There is too much reliance on the soundtrack and the juxtaposed visions of Ralstons past/future for me. I find this type of story telling overused and unoriginal.
There was not enough of a backstory for me to care or even understand the significance of Ralstons unborn son.
He'd already demonstrated silence and nature are sometimes piercing enough.
Over all Boyle is still a genius. I look forward to next project.

Jax

TIME FOR A TURKEY....EAT PRAY LOVE

"Eat Pray Love" is the movie in question. Sure I had been warned. Somehow I thought by the time it got to DVD, it wouldn't be so bad.

I was mistaken.

I,like the rest of the female race LOVED the book by Elizabeth Gilbert. It spoke of a freedom and mental stillness that had seemed elusive until now.

Gilbert explained her utopia as guilt free feeding sessions, endless meditation and most importantly falling in love with your soulmate.

Bring it on!

I received her words easily and gracefully.

It seems though that there is a big fucking difference between author of book and script consultant.

Gilbert where did you go? This was your life on the big screen and you didn't seem to raise your hand in protest once!!!???

Ryan Murphy isn't an idiot. This is the man behind "Running with Scissors" and more recently "Glee". Sure he provided us with a pumping soundtrack and colorful location shots.

This was NOT enough to sustain us for over 2 hours of otherwise visual and auditory torture.

The big problem with this movie is Julia Roberts. I can honestly say now her finest hour was playing a prostitute in "Pretty Woman".

Julia simply has no range as an actor. She came back from Maternity leave and was even more wooden. Julia seemed to be either welling up crocodile tears or looking downright stoned and confused. I cringed at this performance.

In Rome, the napoletana pizza outshone her. In Bali, you find it hard to believe that the sensuous Felippe (played orgasmically by Javier Bardem)would want to be anywhere near her. Why James Franco insisted she get up off the floor; I'll never know.

This casting was disastrous for the film. I would of preferred to see an ageing Michelle Pfeiffer.

There is one beautiful speech in the film delivered by meditation buddy "Richard" (played by Richard Jenkins) He relays the importance of forgiveness of self and others. Here is an actor who knows his craft and gives the words depth. He doesn't need bright lights and music for the message to be understood.

Julia, like Richard advises you in the film.To be free,we must forgive- I send you light and love and most importantly I let you go.... (Until I hear they've cast you in the sequel)

Jax