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

Two Line Review: Moulin Rouge! (2001)

What a visual and audio feast! This Luhrmann masterpiece was certainly made to entertain. The soundtrack is wonderfully original, the production design - beautiful. It's Spectacular! Spectacular!

Thinking Film Rating: 9/10

Public Opinion: 7.6/10

Critics Opinion: 7.6/10

Moulin Rouge! - Baz Luhrmann

Two Line Review: Chicken Run (2000)

Wonderful animation for a fantastic adaption of The Great Escape. All the charm of a classic Wallace and Gromit episode stretched in a feature length production. The laughs just keep on coming!

Thinking Film Rating: 8.5/10

Public Opinion:  7.1/10
Critics Opinion: 9.7/10

Chicken Run - Peter Lord and Nick Park 

Two Line Review: Pocahontas (1995)

A childhood classic combing the joys of a Disney musical with truly beautiful settings. Although possible not the most educational of films, it's one to enjoy. Can you spot Christian Bale?

Thinking Film Rating: 7/10

Public Opinion: 6.4/10
Critics Opinion: 5.6/10

Pocahontas -  Mike Gabriel, Eric Goldberg

Two Line Review: About Time (2013)

A wonderful story, beautifully acted and fantastically written in a manner we have come to expect from Curtis. An emotional rollercoaster filled with love, humour and a big heart - bring tissues!  

Thinking Film Rating: 9/10

Public Opinion: 7/10

Critics Opinion: 7.1/10

About Time - Richard Curtis 

Exciting Trailer for Sunday: Under The Skin

Under The Skin

Director: Jonathan Glazer

Starring: Scarlett Johansson

               Paul Brannigan

               

UK Release Date: Not Yet Known

Two Line Review: Bend It Like Beckham (2002)

A charming and upbeat film with comedy, romance and heart. Nagra gives a wonderful performance whilst, sadly, Knightley's seems to lack a little. However, this film will definitely make you smile. 

Thinking Film Rating: 7/10

Public Opinion: 6.7/10
Critics Opinion: 8.5/10

Bend It Like Beckham - Gurinder Chadha

Two Line Review: Chungking Express (1994)

A fantastic film told in two stories. With beautiful cinematography, wonderful use of music and intriguing characters, this is a film that really shows Wong Kar Wai at his absolute best! 

Thinking Film Rating: 9.5/10

Public Opinion: 8/10

Critics opinion: 9.6/10

Chungking Express - Wong Kar Wai

Two Line Review: In The Mood For Love (2000)

Not for everyone due to the very slow pace but if you love a visually stunning piece, with fantastic performances and a sensuously simple story, prepare to be amazed!

Thinking Film Rating: 9/10

Public Opinion: 8.0/10

Critic Opinion: 8.8/10

In The Mood For Love - Wong Kar Wai

Two Line Review: Dragon Tiger Gate (2006)

While the action sequences in the manga to movie adaptation are brilliant, the story is cheesily predictable, with characters that try very hard to be 'cool' to varying levels of success.

Thinking Film Rating: 5/10

Public Opinion: 6.1/10

Critics Opinion: n/a

Dragon Tiger Gate - Wilson Yip

Two Line Review: Knocked Up (2007)

Rudd is once again the treat in this production, with Rogan coming a close second. Laughs come but once in a while and are sadly not enough to bring this film to the heights of The 40 Year Old Virgin.

Thinking Film Rating: 5.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.1/10

Critics Opinion: 9.1/10

Knocked Up - Judd Apatow

Exciting Trailer for Sunday: Blackfish

Blackfish

Director: Gabriela Cowperthwaite

UK Release Date: Out in cinemas on limited release. 

Two Line Review: This Is 40 (2012)

 With a great cast, this latest film from the steadfast Apatow looked sure for success. However, characters incessantly whining in a movie with little story take away any possible enjoyment here. 

Thinking Film Rating: 4/10

Public Opinion: 6.2/10
Critics Opinion: 5.2/10

This is 40 - Judd Apatow 

Two Line Review: The Way Way Back (2013)

A well acted coming of age story that felt surprisingly believable. While there are no laugh out loud moments, the wry sense of humour and relatable characters makes a very enjoyable piece.

Thinking Film Rating: 8.5/10

Public Opinion: 7.8/10

Critic Opinion: 8.5/10

The Way Way Back - Nat Faxon, Jim Rash