Two Line Review: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

Another strong film in The Hobbit franchise, the design and performances are perfect. The only small quibble is that the ending climax scene goes on for needlessly long, but otherwise fantastic fun.

Thinking Film Rating: 9/10

Public Opinion: 8.3/10
Critics Opinion: 7.4/10

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug - Peter Jackson

Two Line Review: Despicable Me (2010)

A surprisingly funny film that is great for all the family. Great characters and a good new twist on the superhero/super-villain theme, twinned with solid animation, make a strong release from Universal.

Thinking Film Rating: 8/10

Public Opinion: 7.6/10
Critics Opinion: 8.1/10

Despicable Me - Pierre Coffin, Chris Renaud

Two Line Review: Epic (2013)

An animation that feels more focused towards the kids than the adults. The environmentalist theme seems a little old and the performances are a bit shaky but the animation is strong.

Thinking Film Rating: 4.5/10

Public Opinion: 6.7/10
Critics Opinion: 6.4/10

Epic - Chris Wedge

Exciting Trailer: Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

Director: Matt Reeves

Starring: Gary Oldman
               Andy Serkis
               Judy Greer

UK Release Date: 17th July 2014

Two Line Review: My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

A well-written rom-com that is enjoyable for women and men. It is as fun and frivolous as the Portokalos family and has some great moments and fantastic characters that everyone can relate to.

Thinking Film Rating: 7.5/10

Public Opinion: 6.5/10
Critics Opinion: 7.6/10

My Big Fat Greek Wedding - Joel Zwick

Two Line Review: The Holiday (2006)

While it may be over-acted, overly-cheesy and very predictable, it is a fun, easy-watching Christmas film that remains a annual classic, and features Jack Black being pretty cool!

Thinking Film Rating: 6.5/10

Public Opinion: 6.8/10
Critics Opinion: 4.7/10

The Holiday - Nancy Meyers

Two Line Review: On The Road (2012)

A mood board of a film charting the adventures of a wanna-be writer. Beautiful design sets up a some nice performances and surprising cameos, but ultimately this is a slow film with little story.

Thinking Film Review: 6/10

Public Opinion: 6.1/10

Critics Opinion: 4.4/10

On The Road - Walter Sallasq

Two Line Review: This Is The End (2013)

Started strong with lots of laughs, nice concept and great cameos, but spiralled quickly downhill. There was potential, but for the nauseating bromance theme and continual drug and sex gags.

Thinking Film Rating: 5.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.0/10
Critics Opinion: 8.3/10

This Is The End - Evan Goldberg, Seth Rogen

Two Line Review: To Rome With Love (2012)

A fun, quirky and light-hearted film from Allen, that seems to both celebrate and take the mick out of Italian mysticism and celebrity culture, taking inspiration from classic Commedia dell'arte!

Thinking Film Rating: 8/10

Public Opinion: 6.3/10
Critics Opinion: 4.3/10

To Rome With Love - Woody Allen

Exciting Trailer: The Book Thief

The Book Thief

Director: Brian Percival

Starring: Sophie Nelisee

               Geoffrey Rush

               Emily Watson

UK Release Date: 31st January 2014

Two Line Review: Star Trek: Into Darkness (2013)

A rather weak blockbuster that focused more on gun-fights and cheesy one-liners than developing a story. Even Cumberbatch felt like he was re-tracing old ground, yet Pegg brought light into darkness.

Thinking Film Rating: 4.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.9/10
Critics Opinion: 8.7/10

Star Trek: Into Darkness - J.J. Abrams

Two Line Review: Zero Dark Thirty (2012)

Zero Dark Thirty makes a decent dramatised reconstruction, but as a film there are many areas that felt lacking. Characters and plot detail are particularly underdeveloped, in favour of shock value.

Thinking Film Rating: 5/10

Public Opinion: 7.4/10

Critics Opinion: 9.3/10

Zero Dark Thirty - Kathryn Bigelow

Exciting Trailer: The Wind Rises

The Wind Rises

Director: Hayao Miyazaki

Starring: Hideaki Anno

               Mirai Shida

               Jun Kunimura

UK Release Date: Unknown

Two Line Review: Moneyball (2011)

Although focusing on baseball, this interesting film looks more at the challenges of breaking tradition and attempting the untried. Great writing with impressive performances, particularly from Jonah Hill.

Thinking Film Rating: 8/10

Public Opinion: 7.6/10
Critics Opinion: 9.4/10

Moneyball - Bennett Miller

Two Line Review: The Iron Lady (2011)

Streep gives a stunning performance playing the Marmite prime minister Thatcher, wonderfully supported by Broadbent. Sadly, the flashback storytelling technique does not work well here.

Thinking Film Rating: 6/10

Public Opinion: 6.3/10

Critics Opinion: 5.1/10

The Iron Lady - Phyllida Lloyd 

Two Line Review: The Sessions (2012)

A fascinating true-story, with some amazing performances from Hunt and Hawkes. This life-altering situation was told in a light and accessible way, with respect and heart for the late Mark O'Brien.

Thinking Film Rating: 7.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.2/10

Critics Opinion: 9.4/10

The Sessions - Ben Lewin 

Exciting Trailer: Cuban Fury (2014)

Cuban Fury (2014)

Director: James Griffiths 

Staring: Nick Frost

             Chris O'Dowd

             Rashida Jones

             Oliva Coleman

UK Release Date: 14th February 2014 

Two Line Review: The Counsellor (2013)

With so much potential, it is a shame that The Counsellor is just a mess of shallow stereotypes of the crime genre. Poor writing, leading to poor performances from a usually stellar line-up.

Thinking Film Rating: 3.5/10

Public Opinion: 6.0/10
Critics Opinion: 3.6/10

The Counsellor - Ridley Scott

Exciting Trailer AND Amazing Advert: Sainsbury's "Christmas in a Day"

Oscar-winning director has created Sainsbury's first festive advert in the form of a trailer for upcoming YouTube feature film 'Christmas in a Day'. Using 360 hours worth of footage of real-life British Christmas's.

Two Line Review: Spring Breakers (2013)

At times, some very debatable, social critique is the only saving grace in an otherwise pancake-flat film, that goes entirely for shock value. Ridiculous drama, lacking in substance and realism.

Thinking Film Rating: 2/10

Public Opinion: 5.5/10
Critics Opinion: 6.6/10

Spring Breakers - Harmony Korine

Two Line Review: X-Men: First Class (2011)

Started strong exploring the interesting bond between Xavier and Erik, but soon got caught up with over-the-top CGI, training montages and stereotypical superhero music, a standard blockbuster.

Thinking Film Rating: 6/10

Public Opinion: 7.8/10
Critics Opinion: 8.7/10

X-Men: First Class - Matthew Vaughn

Exciting Trailer: Winter's Tale

Winter's Tale

Director: Akiva Goldsman

Starring: Colin Farrell

               Russell Crowe

               Jennifer Connelly 

UK Release Date: 21st February 2014

Two Line Review: Philomena (2013)

Judi Dench shines in an emotional and heartfelt tale that delivers a perfect mix of drama and comedy.  Coogan supports brilliantly, with fantastic chemistry between the pair. Worthy British fare!

Thinking Film Rating: 8.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.7/10
Critics Opinion: 9.4/10

Philomena - Stephen Frears

Two Line Review: The Time Traveller's Wife (2009)

A very serious love story that shows all the sad moments of a relationship without showing the happy times, still there is good chemistry between McAdams and Bana, and an interesting concept.

Thinking Film Rating: 7/10

Public Opinion: 7.0/10
Critics Opinion: 3.7/10

The Time Traveller's Wife - Robert Schwentke

Two Line Review: The Raid: Redemption (2011)

Now don't get me wrong, as a spectacle this film is awesome, with incredible choreography and feats of human capabilities, if only there was a little bit of plot to guide us through the story.

Thinking Film Rating: 5/10

Public Opinion: 7.5/10
Critics Opinion: 8.5/10

The Raid: Redemption - Gareth Evans

Two Line Review: V for Vendetta (2005)

With a decent storyline and great production design, it is a shame that the acting, particularly from Portman, does not live up to the rest of the film. Still, this is enjoyable and worth a casual viewing.

Thinking Film Rating: 6/10

Public Opinion: 8.2/10
Critics Opinion: 7.3/10

V for Vendetta - James McTeigue

Two Line Review: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006)

There are moments that reach the heights of the first film but overall this sequel is much weaker. The characters and storyline are there but overly exaggerated, it is still an enjoyable romp.

Thinking Film Rating: 6/10

Public Opinion: 7.2/10

Critics Opinion: 5.4/10

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest - Gore Verbinski

Two Line Review: Saw (2004)

As with all successful franchises, the first is by far the best, and surprisingly well-written and executed. The twists and turns of the plot maintain the intrigue. A refreshingly clever horror flick!

Thinking Film Rating: 8/10

Public Opinion: 7.6/10
Critics Opinion: 4.8/10

Saw - James Wan

Two Line Review: Thor (2011)

Full of cheesy posing, bad CGI and unnecessary slo-mos, this is one of the weaker superhero franchises. It was hard to buy into Asgaard and the film's comedy almost seemed to mock itself.  

Thinking Film Rating: 3.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.0/10
Critics Opinion: 7.7/10

Thor - Kenneth Branagh, Joss Whedon

Exciting Trailer: Labor Day

Labor Day

Director: Jason Reitman

Starring: Kate Winslet
               Josh Brolin
               Tobey Maguire

UK Release Date: 7th February 2014

Two Line Review: Frankenstein (Recorded Theatre) (2011)

With Cumberbatch as the Creature, this was an amazing adaptation of a classic, timeless story. The set design, along with the performances, were fantastically directed. A brilliant piece of theatre!

Thinking Film Rating: 9/10

Frankenstein (Theatre) - Danny Boyle 

Exciting Trailer: The Grand Budapest Hotel

The Grand Budapest

Director: Wes Anderson

Starring: Ralph Fiennes

              Saoirse Ronan

              Tilda Swinton

UK Release Date: 2014

Two Line Review: Now You See Me (2013)

An entertaining magicians show with a good ensemble cast. Starting well and maintaining a quick pace, the film did get bogged down with unnecessarily long action sequences, but finished solidly.

Thinking Film Rating: 7.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.3/10
Critics Opinion: 5/10

Now You See Me - Louis Leterrier

Two Line Review: Rat Race (2001)

A great cast and some funny gags make this easy-going flick a joy to watch, and to quote, even 12 years on. Light hearted fun that most of the family can enjoy! "It's a race, it's a race!"

Thinking Film Rating: 7/10

Public Opinion: 6.3/10

Critics Opinion: 4.4/10

Rat Race - Jerry Zucker

Two Line Review: Batman Begins (2005)

Easily the weakest of the trilogy, with an unconvincing villain and action that is a little too far-fetched for this writer. A solid blockbuster that is enjoyable, but completely over shadowed by it's sequels.

Thinking Film Rating: 6/10

Public Opinion: 8.3/10
Critics Opinion: 8.5/10

Batman Begins - Christopher Nolan

Exciting Trailer: These Birds Walk

These Birds Walk

Director: Omar Mullick, Bassam Tariq

UK Release Date: Not Yet Known

Two Line Review: Seven Swords (2005)

A reasonable spin on the classic 'Seven Samurai' tale. The action sequences are solid if a little fantastical, but there is a lot purely included for shock value. Only for the martial art film enthusiast.

Thinking Film Rating: 5.5/10

Public Opinion: 6.1/10

Critics Opinion: 2.5/10

Seven Swords - Tsui Hark

Two Line Review: Spirited Away (2001)

Welcome to a world of extraordinary characters and vividly realised visualisations. This is a timeless classic, helmed by the legendary Miyazaki, that requires a number of viewings to take it all in.

Thinking Film Rating: 10/10

Public Opinion: 8.5/10

Critics Opinion: 9.7/10

Spirited Away - Hayao Miyazaki

Two Line Review: Ashes Of Time (Redux) (1994)

This film is certainly style over substance and, if viewed as such, is a sumptuous and stunning visual affair, made for the big screen. For fans of Wong Kar Wai's work, this is compulsory viewing.

Thinking Film Rating: 8/10

Public Opinion: 7/10

Critics Opinion: 7.8/10

Ashes Of Time Redux - Wong Kar Wai

Two Line Review: Napoleon Dynamite (2004)

Brilliantly off-kilter cult film of high school romance, featuring some fantastic characters and performances that really bring the film to life, as well as some Sweet dance moves.

Thinking Film Rating: 6.5/10

Public Opinion: 6.8/10

Critics Opinion: 7.1/10

Napoleon Dynamite - Jared Hess

Two Line Review: Captain Philips (2013)

Tom Hanks leads a brilliant cast in an absolutely must see film! With well-developed characters, the scenarios and action never feel overdramatised. Get ready for an intense two hours!

Thinking Film Rating: 10/10

Public Opinion: 8/10

Critics Opinion: 9.4/10

Captain Philips - Paul Greengrass

Two Line Review: I Give It a Year (2013)

With some funny moments and a great performance from supporting actor Merchant. The unusual twist where you actually root for the leading couple to divorce makes this much more com than rom.

Thinking Film Rating: 5.5/10

Public Opinion: 5.7/10

Critics Opinion: 5.5/10

I Give It a Year - Dan Mazer

  

Exciting Trailer: Philomena

Philomena

Director: Stephen Frears

Starring: Judi Dench

              Steve Coogan

              Michelle Fairley

UK Release Date: 1st November 2013 

Two Line Review: Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992)

A very theatrical retelling of the well-known story that was maybe a little too over-dramatic and over-sexualised. That said, the production and costume design were great, as was Anthony Hopkins.

Thinking Film Rating: 5.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.4/10
Critics Opinion: 8.0/10

Bram Stoker's Dracula - Francis Ford Coppola 

Two Line Review: Les Misérables (2012)

Unfortunately this all felt too much - perhaps works best in a cinema setting? However, the costumes, and production design were incredible and Hathaway showed her amazing singing talents. 

Thinking Film Rating: 6/10

Public Opinion: 7.6/10

Critics Opinion: 7/10

Les Misérables - Tom Hooper 

Two Line Review: Searching for Sugar Man (2012)

Starts slowly but if you stick with this amazing film, it takes you on intriguing journey hunting the mysterious Rodriguez, and finds more than it could've hoped for. An incredible documentary!

Thinking Film Rating: 9/10

Public Opinion: 8.1/10
Critics Opinion: 9.6/10

Searching for Sugar Man - Malik Bendjelloul

Two Line Review: Match Point (2005)

This film combines rather half-hearted performances with a strangely cast lead actor and familiar storyline of infidelity, albeit with an overly dramatic (and almost unbelievable) ending. 

Thinking Film Rating: 3/10

Public Opinion: 7.7/10

Critics Opinion: 7.7/10

Match Point - Woody Allen

Two Line Review: Entrapment (1999)

A standard 90s crime thriller with average performances from Connery and Zeta-Jones, not helped by a below par storyline and complete lack of chemistry between the two leads.

Thinking Film Rating: 4/10

Public Opinion: 6.1/10

Critics Opinion: 3.8/10

Entrapment - Jon Amiel

Two Line Review: The Hurricane (1999)

While this film contains another impressive performance from Denzel Washington, the other characters are relatively weak. The film relates interesting themes but is let down by the telling.

Thinking Film Rating: 6.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.4/10
Critics Opinion: 8.3/10

The Hurricane - Norman Jewison

Exciting Trailer: Dom Hemingway

Dom Hemingway

Director: Richard Shepard

Starring: Jude Law

              Richard E. Grant

              Demian Bichir

UK Release Date: 15th November 13

Two Line Review: Ip Man (2008)

If viewed for the story, this film will leave you disappointed, as it is overly patriotic and idolizing. If viewed for the martial arts and choreography, prepare to be stunned. Donnie Yen on top form.

Thinking Film Rating: 6.5/10

Public Opinion: 8.0/10
Critics Opinion: 8.4/10

Ip Man - Wilson Yip

Amazing Adverts: TalkTalk TV: Date Night

A great advert for date night with TalkTalk TV.

A very sweet little animation.

Exciting Trailer: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

Director: Peter Jackson

Starring: Ian McKellen

              Martin Freeman

              Benedict Cumberbatch

              Richard Armitage

UK Release Date: 13th December 2013

Two Line Review: Robin Hood (1973)

One of Disney's underrated classics, a nicely paced story that really is for children but is a guilty pleasure for parents too. 

Thinking Film Rating: 6.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.5/10

Critics Opinion: 5.0/10

Robin Hood - Wolfgang Reitherman

Two Line Review: Blackfish (2013)

An incredibly impassioned, moving and important documentary. An emotional argument that makes bold statements about our relationship with nature. It has the power to make a difference.  

Thinking Film Rating: 9.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.8/10

Critics Opinion: 9.8/10

Blackfish - Gabriela Cowperthwaite

Two Line Review: Zoolander (2001)

The interplay between Stiller and Wilson keeps this otherwise weak film alive. The storyline is poor but the occasional moments of brilliance are worth dumbing your brain down for.

Thinking Film Rating: 6.5/10

Public Opinion: 6.5/10
Critics Opinion: 6.4/10

Zoolander - Ben Stiller

Exciting Trailer for Sunday: Blue is the Warmest Colour

Blue is the Warmest Colour

Director: Abdellatif Kechiche

Starring: Lea Seydoux

               Adele Exarchopoulos

               Salim Kechiouche

UK Release Date: 15 November 13

Two Line Review: Friends with Benefits (2011)

A cheesy and predictable rom-com with a very similar theme as No Strings Attached, also 2011. However, the chemistry between Timberlake and Kunas is more enjoyable and watchable here. 

Thinking Film Rating: 6/10

Public Opinion: 6.6/10

Critics Opinion: 7/10

Friends with Benefits - Will Gluck 

Two Line Review: Mud (2012)

With interesting characters and beautiful words and visuals, Mud is a thoroughly engaging, old-fashioned storytelling. Strengthened by outstanding performances from McConaughey and Sheridan.

Thinking Film Rating: 9/10

Public Opinion: 7.6/10

Critics Opinion: 9.8/10

Mud - Jeff Nichols

Amazing Adverts: Giving

A new advert from Thai telecommunications conglomerate True, the theme of which is giving and not expecting a return.

Many have claimed that the advert rivals many Hollywood films with its emotional 3-minute story.

Exciting Trailer for Sunday: The Railway Man

The Railway Man

Director: Jonathan Teplitzky

Starring: Colin Firth

               Nicole Kidman

               Jeremy Irvine

UK Release Date: 3rd January 2014

Two Line Review: Aladdin (1992)

A fantastic Disney classic! With unforgettable songs, beautiful scenery and Robin Williams' impeccable turn as the Genie. A complete joy for adults and kids alike!

Thinking Film Rating: 9.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.9/10

Critics Opinion: 9.2/10

Aladdin - Roy Clements & John Musker 

Two Line Review: Wimbledon (2004)

A predictable but enjoyable rom-com with Bettany taking a surprisingly great turn in his role as bumbly British eye candy. Light, refreshing and watchable - perhaps even better served with Pimms? 

Thinking Film Rating: 7/10

Public Opinion: 6.3/10

Critics Opinion: 6.1/10

Wimbledon - Richard Loncraine

Amazing Adverts: The Scarecrow

There are a number of adverts out there at the moment that are telling such captivating stories.

Here is one of our current favourites, advertising a new game for the iPhone and iPad.

The Scarecrow - Chipotle Mexican Grill

Two Line Review: Watchmen (2009)

A violent and politically saturated satire of the superhero genre. A dark and brooding piece that while staying reasonably true to the original work, does benefit from a prior read of the graphic novel.

Thinking Film Rating: 6.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.6/10
Critics Opinion: 6.4/10

Watchmen - Zack Snyder

Two Line Review: Turbo (2013)

This may be enjoyable for those who can get past the ridiculousness of a snail racing against cars, but in any case this is a solid Dreamworks flick, that will appeal to kids if less to adults.

Thinking Film Rating: 5/10

Public Opinion: 6.3/10
Critics Opinion: 6.3/10

Turbo - David Soren

Exciting Trailer for Sunday: All is Bright

All is Bright

Director: Phil Morrison

Starring: Paul Giamatti

               Paul Rudd

               Sally Hawkins

UK Release Date: Not Yet Known

Two Line Review: Lost In Translation (2003)

This film is exquisite in every way; story, performances and chemistry, camerawork, sound are all perfect. It is a refreshing change of pace as a film about companionship love rather than lustful love.

Thinking Film Rating: 10/10

Public Opinion: 7.8/10

Critics Opinion: 9.5/10

Lost In Translation - Sofia Coppola