The first rule of film club is...well...erm...talk about films. This isn’t your favourite Film (As with the favourite films thread) but simply the last film you saw or a film you like. Let’s face it, films can be great without being in your top ten of all time. It’s good to act as a guide if people are stuck for something to watch.
I watched Resistance (2020) last night.
The story of mime Marcel Marceau as he works with a group of Jewish boy scouts and the French Resistance to save the lives of ten thousand orphans during World War II.
It’s been panned by critics and a lot of people haven’t enjoyed it but I thought it was very good. 7/10
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Watched Baby Driver last week which I thought was a cracking different spin on the heist genre. I dont think you actually see any of the heists but it's a proper good pot boiler. Also watched Spotlight again when it was on the telly recently, saw it originally at the cinema. Really good film about journalists working on a story to expose systemic child abuse by priests and the cover up by the Catholic church in Boston. Haunting credits sequence too were they list all the incidents and locations of child abuse by catholic priests across the world including some very close to home. Not your standard Saturday night 'sit back and relax' movie but real powerful cinema. It might still be on the Iplayer.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Watched Baby Driver last week which I thought was a cracking different spin on the heist genre. I dont think you actually see any of the heists but it's a proper good pot boiler. Also watched Spotlight again when it was on the telly recently, saw it originally at the cinema. Really good film about journalists working on a story to expose systemic child abuse by priests and the cover up by the Catholic church in Boston. Haunting credits sequence too were they list all the incidents and locations of child abuse by catholic priests across the world including some very close to home. Not your standard Saturday night 'sit back and relax' movie but real powerful cinema. It might still be on the Iplayer.
I enjoyed baby driver too - solid entertainment. Spotlight is an absolutely outstanding film. Great cast, harrowing but brilliantly done. I seem to remember that and the big short as being 2 of my favourite films that year. Again great cast, story and film.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Also enjoyed Spotlight, Big Short and Baby Driver.
Almost watched Resistance last night funnily enough and didn't realise the Marcel Marceau connection. In the end i plumped for Outpost, which is the true story of a military base, manned by American soldiers in Afghanistan, with the purpose of winning the hearts and minds of the locals. It was situated in a valley, surrounded on all sides by sheer mountains and was shot at constantly by the Taliban, who could overlook it's frankly ludicrous position. Eventually it was subjected to an all out attack and the soldiers had to fight for their lives. I'm not a huge fan of war films as a rule but it was ok, and showed the impossible situations some soldiers find themselves in when given orders from on high that they know are ridiculous, not to mention extremely dangerous and futile, but they have to follow orders. 6/10
The roll call of the dead at the end was pretty sad.
The story of mime Marcel Marceau as he works with a group of Jewish boy scouts and the French Resistance to save the lives of ten thousand orphans during World War II.
It’s been panned by critics and a lot of people haven’t enjoyed it but I thought it was very good. 7/10
Saw it recently .I liked Resistance as well.Like you I give it around 7/10. Surprised that some critics gave it a poor mark.Its just shows that opinion is subjective and like someone once said in the army "opinions are like bumholes everyone has one ".
I have a subscription with Amazon prime though watched a film via a family member via netfilx recently . Quite thought provoking. "The platform" released in 2019.
. Also watched Spotlight again when it was on the telly recently, saw it originally at the cinema. Really good film about journalists working on a story to expose systemic child abuse by priests and the cover up by the Catholic church in Boston. Haunting credits sequence too were they list all the incidents and locations of child abuse by catholic priests across the world including some very close to home. Not your standard Saturday night 'sit back and relax' movie but real powerful cinema. It might still be on the Iplayer.
Yes Ive seen similar eg a true film based on abuses by priests to Aborigine children.
Its a shame that a very small percentage of priests give the Catholic church a bad name. Ive been lucky to have met some truly holy genuine priests in my time that have helped me heal from trauma Ive experienced when younger.Likewise the current Pope Francis who I think is a breadth of fresh air has been strong on the issue and in 2019 promised an end to cover-ups, saying that all abusers would be brought to justice.
Saw it recently .I liked Resistance as well.Like you I give it around 7/10. Surprised that some critics gave it a poor mark.Its just shows that opinion is subjective and like someone once said in the army "opinions are like bumholes everyone has one ".
I have a subscription with Amazon prime though watched a film via a family member via netfilx recently . Quite thought provoking. "The platform" released in 2019.
Glad it wasn’t just me then! I thought the guy who played the Nazi lieutenant did a great job.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Yes Ive seen similar eg a true film based on abuses by priests to Aborigine children.
Its a shame that a very small percentage of priests give the Catholic church a bad name. Ive been lucky to have met some truly holy genuine priests in my time that have helped me heal from trauma Ive experienced when younger.Likewise the current Pope Francis who I think is a breadth of fresh air has been strong on the issue and in 2019 promised an end to cover-ups, saying that all abusers would be brought to justice.
I think the proof will be in the pudding for convictions, the church of all denominations has closed ranks and covered stuff up for years without count. That some are decent doesn’t alter the fact they haven’t called out the church on abuse. Religion is about power and mind control, it is up to anyone to believe what they want but it is has the same amount of proof as fairies, our patron saint killed a dragon, do you believe that nonsense?
I think the proof will be in the pudding for convictions, the church of all denominations has closed ranks and covered stuff up for years without count. That some are decent doesn’t alter the fact they haven’t called out the church on abuse. Religion is about power and mind control, it is up to anyone to believe what they want but it is has the same amount of proof as fairies, our patron saint killed a dragon, do you believe that nonsense?
Thing is Codcheeky Jesus was a historical figure that most serious historians agree existed.Whether he rose from the dead after 3 days is a question of faith but Ive seen first hand how it can heal people that have come from tough criminal backgrounds and turned their lives around for the better.Hence one lad I knew who was a tough Irish gypsy who was forever getting into fights in pubs,engaged in other criminal activity been in prison etc said that no psychotherapist healed him.All were rubbish in his view.The only one that healed him was faith in Jesus and a great Catholic priest which I also had the privilege of meeting.Again there are similar stories from countless others.
As for Jesus my view on him is he was a radical Jew that tried to do something good in the society he lived in at the time.As for his death and resurrection thats a question of faith .I believe at the time some disciples may have truly felt they experienced visions of his resurrection whilst others may have experienced his resurrection as a sort of spiritual feeling which was embellished by later man .Hence felt his presence.I tend to side the with the latter.
All what the Catholic church stands for is a direct link back to Jesus apostles.I admit throughout history the church has done bad but this is mans will not that of Jesus which Pope Francis has alluded to.Hence he acknowledges things have to be improved .Overall though I think the church has done more good than bad though.
Thing is Codcheeky Jesus was a historical figure that most serious historians agree existed.Whether he rose from the dead after 3 days is a question of faith but Ive seen first hand how it can heal people that have come from tough criminal backgrounds and turned their lives around for the better.Hence one lad I knew who was a tough Irish gypsy who was forever getting into fights in pubs,engaged in other criminal activity been in prison etc said that no psychotherapist healed him.All were rubbish in his view.The only one that healed him was faith in Jesus and a great Catholic priest which I also had the privilege of meeting.Again there are similar stories from countless others.
As for Jesus my view on him is he was a radical Jew that tried to do something good in the society he lived in at the time.As for his death and resurrection thats a question of faith .I believe at the time some disciples may have truly felt they experienced visions of his resurrection whilst others may have experienced his resurrection as a thought of spiritual feeling which was embellished by later man .Hence felt his presence.I tend to side the with the latter.
All what the Catholic church stands for is a direct link back to Jesus apostles.I admit throughout history the church has done bad but this is mans will not that of Jesus which Pope Francis has alluded to.Hence he acknowledges things have to be improved .Overall though I think the church has done more good than bad though.
Pretty much nonsense in my view, I knew a someone I went to school with was always in trouble and in and of Jail, into drugs and alcohol, he changed his life around without religion so makes a bit of a mockery of your example but each to their own. That Someone called Jesus existed is pretty moot, that he came from a virgin birth, happened to be born to fit in with pagan Yule feast and die at the pagan Oestre festival is very convenient. You have the same god and prophets as the Jews and Muslims and pretty much had the same patriarchal organisation(are there any women priests) but as many are Buddhist or Hindu, is your god blind to half the world population? The church has a history of burning heretics and encouraging the burning of pagans, starting wars and crusades, was missionaries in Africa and Australia etc destroying much older beliefs doing good ? Do you have the moral right as a Christian to say everyone else is wrong Do you believe in Angels and dragons?Evolution?
Pretty much nonsense in my view, I knew a someone I went to school with was always in trouble and in and of Jail, into drugs and alcohol, he changed his life around without religion so makes a bit of a mockery of your example but each to their own.
Thats him though.On top of the tough gypsy lad I knew Ive heard accounts of plenty of others though directly where religion has worked for them including football hooligans and indirectly through people I knew that were brothers with hardcore criminals .Likewise Ive seen plenty of documentary's where gang members in the UK and abroad are being helped by faith in Jesus.
You have the same god and prophets as the Jews and Muslims and pretty much had the same patriarchal organisation(are there any women priests) but as many are Buddhist or Hindu, is your god blind to half the world population?
For me something divine did create the universe and Christianity makes the most sense out of all religions. Hence religion for me is mans attempt to understand how the universe started. Hinduism is the oldest known religion as you maybe aware and again this in my view is ancient mans attempt to understand the divine. Buddhism is an interesting one as they dont believe in a supernatural deity but karma .As for Islam that in my view is one mans attempt to understand God through his own consciousness eg prophet Muhammad which we all can do.
As for women priests I think there is none because Jesus 12 original disciples were all men and the church wanted to carry on that tradition.
The church has a history of burning heretics and encouraging the burning of pagans, starting wars and crusades, was missionaries in Africa and Australia etc destroying much older beliefs doing good ?
Yes and this is where Christianity was wrong as loosely noted before especially from the Catholic view but you need to look at the positives as well. Iam no expert but I know the Catholic church has done a lot of good throughout history in medical care and continues to be a large non-government provider of health care services in the world:
Using “the strategy of non-coercive power” (Deus Vult: The Geopolitics of the Catholic Church, 2010), the Church runs 5,500 hospitals, 18,000 clinics, 16,000 homes for the elderly and those with special needs, with 65 percent of them located in underdeveloped and developing countries.
And :
"Consider Caritas, the confederation of Catholic aid agencies that spent billions of dollars for poor humanity. Then sum up all the small-scale charitable projects of more than 200,000 Catholic parishes around the world and those of individual religious orders such as the Franciscans, Jesuits, Dominicans, Opus Dei, Vincentians, and others."
I believe there is some sort of angelic presence yes.This is due to a one of profound experience I had when young and where my faith in God comes from.As for dragons I think thats a slightly naive thing to ask but yes I do believe in dragons as they exist eg the Komado dragon in Indonesia .
Idealistic Senate staffer Daniel J. Jones, tasked by his boss to lead an investigation into the CIA's post 9/11 Detention and Interrogation Program, uncovers shocking secrets.
8/10
Really enjoyed this. Adam Driver was very good as per.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Quite a gory one but worth a watch none the less. Hostel 3 (2011).Ive seen the previous two and there not bad. About tourists who are taken hostage and tortured.Think its glamorised but loosely based on reality.Another thing Quentin Tarantino had some part in directing the film who is one of my favourite directors.
Quite a gory one but worth a watch none the less. Hostel 3 (2011).Ive seen the previous two and there not bad. About tourists who are taken hostage and tortured.Think its glamorised but loosely based on reality.Another thing Quentin Tarantino had some part in directing the film who is one of my favourite directors.
6/10
I don’t want to come across like a film snob but fear I may when I say I am not interested one bit. I turned off the first as torture porn is not for me. That being said I am also a big girls blouse and have no stomach for it, I’m the same for horror.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I don’t want to come across like a film snob but fear I may when I say I am not interested one bit. I turned off the first as torture porn is not for me. That being said I am also a big girls blouse and have no stomach for it, I’m the same for horror.
Fair enough .Iam not really a big fan of the horror genre either but some I watch if the synopsis looks interesting or there done by a certain director.
I don’t want to come across like a film snob but fear I may when I say I am not interested one bit. I turned off the first as torture porn is not for me. That being said I am also a big girls blouse and have no stomach for it, I’m the same for horror.
Me too! I don’t like horror movies and never have, I saw Halloween when I was a kid and that terrified me, I had to sleep with the lights on and check under the bed that night 😉, I just don’t get seeing people getting hacked up as entertainment (maybe I’m big girls blouse deep down) seriously though give me a good comedy any day of the week.
Idealistic Senate staffer Daniel J. Jones, tasked by his boss to lead an investigation into the CIA's post 9/11 Detention and Interrogation Program, uncovers shocking secrets.
8/10
Really enjoyed this. Adam Driver was very good as per.
Second this about Adam Driver. I think he's an excellent actor. I really enjoyed him in Paterson, a low key but lovely and quirky little indie film.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Quite a gory one but worth a watch none the less. Hostel 3 (2011).Ive seen the previous two and there not bad. About tourists who are taken hostage and tortured.Think its glamorised but loosely based on reality.Another thing Quentin Tarantino had some part in directing the film who is one of my favourite directors.
6/10
I've gone off horror massively in the last 10 years or so. I find most modern films to rely too much on the graphic gore rather than building tension like the original Halloween. I did enjoy the first Saw film but there was no need for the 20 sequels and prequels.
Good call on Tarantino though. I adore Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction. Hated Inglorious illegitimates mind, it just really bored me. Thought Once Upon Time In Hollywood was an awesome return to form though, with it loosely being based around the Manson family I wasn't looking forward to the end so was pleasantly surprised that he turned the facts of what happened on it's head.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Good call on Tarantino though. I adore Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction. Hated Inglorious illegitimates mind, it just really bored me. Thought Once Upon Time In Hollywood was an awesome return to form though, with it loosely being based around the Manson family I wasn't looking forward to the end so was pleasantly surprised that he turned the facts of what happened on it's head.
I quite liked Inglorious b*stards .Bit violent though . The films that really struck me as unusual but good was kill Bill Volume 1 and then 2 without realising that Tarantino had directed it till after the film had finished. I thought the soundtrack to the 2nd film was decent as well.
I quite liked Inglorious b*stards .Bit violent though . The films that really struck me as unusual but good was kill Bill Volume 1 and then 2 without realising that Tarantino had directed it till after the film had finished. I thought the soundtrack to the 2nd film was decent as well.
I forget that Tarantino directed the Kill Bill films. I agree though, a fantastic pair of films. It was probably post Kill Bill when I went off him, 3 hourish films are all good as long as they keep me engaged but I just found Inglorious illegitimates, Hateful 8 and even maybe Django too long, a bit boring and over indulgent. But like anything, it's horses for courses.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
I quite liked Inglorious b*stards .Bit violent though . The films that really struck me as unusual but good was kill Bill Volume 1 and then 2 without realising that Tarantino had directed it till after the film had finished. I thought the soundtrack to the 2nd film was decent as well.
I don’t mind violence in context (Just not when it’s the explicit aim of the film to be gratuitously violent) and I count Tarantino as 1 of my favourite filmmakers. I loved inglorious basterds, pulp fiction and reservoir dogs, in fact barring death proof I like all his work. The guy is a lunatic but a genius.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I don’t mind violence in context (Just not when it’s the explicit aim of the film to be gratuitously violent) and I count Tarantino as 1 of my favourite filmmakers. I loved inglorious basterds, pulp fiction and reservoir dogs, in fact barring death proof I like all his work. The guy is a lunatic but a genius.
Yes I think some people are born with certain gifts in this life eg write films/books,play football etc.Another legendary director has got be Steven Spielborg in my view. I still remember ET as a child.Great film .
Me too! I don’t like horror movies and never have, I saw Halloween when I was a kid and that terrified me, I had to sleep with the lights on and check under the bed that night 😉, I just don’t get seeing people getting hacked up as entertainment (maybe I’m big girls blouse deep down) seriously though give me a good comedy any day of the week.
What are your favourite comedies then mate?
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
On the buses Mutiny on the buses Holiday on the buses Nuts in May Airplane Naked Gun The Money pit
Box sets
Only Fools and horses Fawlty towers The Royle Family Rising damp
Airplane and Naked gun are all time classics! Leslie Nielsen had unbelievable comic timing and presence, he’d have me in stitches with his delivery and sometimes just looking at him, brilliant.
The Royle family is in my all time favourites, absolutely no doubt about it. Did you ever watch Early Doors?
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I liked it more than the Royle Family to be honest which is high praise really. Went and saw the live show at Hull and it was an amazing night out for me and Mrs Sandford.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The true story of a British whistleblower who leaked information to the press about an illegal NSA spy operation designed to push the UN Security Council into sanctioning the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
7/10
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The true story of a British whistleblower who leaked information to the press about an illegal NSA spy operation designed to push the UN Security Council into sanctioning the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
7/10
Ive seen something similar .Green zone (released 2010) where the US army were looking for weapons of mass destruction in Iraq . Decent . 7/10
A film that I saw recently (see a few during the week eg around 4 was the 12th man(released 2017) .True story about 12 Norwegian saboteurs who were on a mission to destroy Nazi operations . Engrossing and quite harrowing . 7.6/10
Ive seen something similar .Green zone (2010) where the US army were looking for weapons of mass destruction in Iraq . Decent . 7/10
A film that I saw recently (see a few during the week eg around 4 was the 12th man.True story about 12 Norwegian saboteurs who were on a mission to destroy Nazi operations . Engrossing and quite harrowing . 7.6/10
I rewatched green zone recently and it’s decent enough but a very different film to official secrets.
I like the sound of the 12th man and will add it to the watch list! Cheers
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Thing is Codcheeky Jesus was a historical figure that most serious historians agree existed.Whether he rose from the dead after 3 days is a question of faith but Ive seen first hand how it can heal people that have come from tough criminal backgrounds and turned their lives around for the better.Hence one lad I knew who was a tough Irish gypsy who was forever getting into fights in pubs,engaged in other criminal activity been in prison etc said that no psychotherapist healed him.All were rubbish in his view.The only one that healed him was faith in Jesus and a great Catholic priest which I also had the privilege of meeting.Again there are similar stories from countless others.
As for Jesus my view on him is he was a radical Jew that tried to do something good in the society he lived in at the time.As for his death and resurrection thats a question of faith .I believe at the time some disciples may have truly felt they experienced visions of his resurrection whilst others may have experienced his resurrection as a sort of spiritual feeling which was embellished by later man .Hence felt his presence.I tend to side the with the latter.
All what the Catholic church stands for is a direct link back to Jesus apostles.I admit throughout history the church has done bad but this is mans will not that of Jesus which Pope Francis has alluded to.Hence he acknowledges things have to be improved .Overall though I think the church has done more good than bad though.
I’m not disagreeing about the positive aspects of religion/some religious people, but which serious historians agree Jesus Christ existed? Bearing in mind proper historians base what they write on critically appraised written evidence.....
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Dragging myself back to the original question. The last film I saw was Green Zone. Decent watch. Serious background. Key point for me was when the interpreter shot the Ba’athist general that the American hero was trying to save (for seemingly good reasons). When the hero challenged him he said ‘it’s not for you to decide’.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
I’m not disagreeing about the positive aspects of religion/some religious people, but which serious historians agree Jesus Christ existed? Bearing in mind proper historians base what they write on critically appraised written evidence.....
Serious historians like you say are ones that base everything on hard evidence. Loosely speaking Bart Ehrman (non biblical scholar and historian ) who is agnostic is the one that most springs to mind.Likewise from what I read loosely via books and articles all confirm most historians believe Jesus existed. Similarly ancient documents within 50-60 years of Jesus death were being written about Jesus. Bear in mind though that literacy levels were low in Jesus time and everything was based on oral tradition. Likewise speaking to teachers in the past who have specialised in this area eg history/religion Ive been told there is more evidence for Jesus than a lot of ancient figures in history.
I think like anything your going to get some doubters though that think Jesus never existed but these are in the minority and quite frankly I feel not with it.Hence you get people nowadays that believe in aliens/ghosts.
Another point as your most likely aware is our own calendar is based on the death of Jesus eg 2022 Ad since Jesus died. Interesting to note as well that our current Queen of England cites Jesus Christ as the person she's looked to most for help her in her duties as a royal:
her broadcast in Christmas 2000 was devoted to an account of Christ’s life and teaching which, she said,
“provide a framework in which I try to lead my life”.
Serious historians like you say are ones that base everything on hard evidence.Bart Ehrman (archaeological biblical historian) who is agnostic is the one that most springs to mind.Likewise from what I read loosely via books and articles all confirm most historians believe Jesus existed. Similarly ancient documents within 50-60 years of Jesus death were being written about Jesus. Bear in mind though that literacy levels were low in Jesus time and everything was based on oral tradition. Likewise speaking to teachers in the past who have specialised in this area eg history/religion Ive been told there is more evidence for Jesus than a lot of ancient figures in history.
I think like anything your going to get some doubters though that think Jesus never existed but these are in the minority and quite frankly I feel not with it.Hence you get people nowadays that believe in aliens/ghosts.
Another point as your most likely aware is our own calendar is based on the death of Jesus eg 2022 Ad since Jesus died. Interesting to note as well that our current Queen of England cites Jesus Christ as the person she's looked to most for help her in her duties as a royal:
her broadcast in Christmas 2000 was devoted to an account of Christ’s life and teaching which, she said,
“provide a framework in which I try to lead my life”.
So something you’ve ‘loosely read’ ‘all confirm most historians believe Jesus existed’??? So you haven’t even properly read the articles which you claim claim something done by suppose any of these historians cite contemporary evidence?
Documents written 50-60 years later. I don’t suppose that all these documents you refer to were the New Testament 😆.
You’re really letting the side down when you start citing the fact we use a dating system based on the supposed birth of someone for whom there is no contemporary evidence of. The society that adopted this dating system was avowedly Christian. Hardly evidence. And that dating system came in 100s of years after the claimed birth of their claimed founder. No one is even certain that Dionysius Exiguous got the year right! Not the most reliable witness of something that supposedly happened 100s of years before.
Can you name any ancient historical figures for whom there is less evidence of than Jesus?
And you also portray the Queen as some sort of historical expert. I wasn’t aware of her getting a chair at Oxford.
Look mate, if you believe, believe. That’s fine. Follow the teachings. That’s even better. But don’t come out with crap about there being a lot of evidence or stating that most historians say he existed. You just make yourself look stupid.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
So something you’ve ‘loosely read’ ‘all confirm most historians believe Jesus existed’??? So you haven’t even properly read the articles which you claim claim something done by suppose any of these historians cite contemporary evidence?
Documents written 50-60 years later. I don’t suppose that all these documents you refer to were the New Testament 😆.
You’re really letting the side down when you start citing the fact we use a dating system based on the supposed birth of someone for whom there is no contemporary evidence of. The society that adopted this dating system was avowedly Christian. Hardly evidence. And that dating system came in 100s of years after the claimed birth of their claimed founder. No one is even certain that Dionysius Exiguous got the year right! Not the most reliable witness of something that supposedly happened 100s of years before.
Can you name any ancient historical figures for whom there is less evidence of than Jesus?
And you also portray the Queen as some sort of historical expert. I wasn’t aware of her getting a chair at Oxford.
Look mate, if you believe, believe. That’s fine. Follow the teachings. That’s even better. But don’t come out with crap about there being a lot of evidence or stating that most historians say he existed. You just make yourself look stupid.
To me religious faith by its very definition is believing In something in spite of little or no evidence to support that belief.
I am not religious and agree with the majority of what you are saying but really Rick doesn’t have to justify his faith by providing evidence. It is his truth and that’s what’s important at the end of the day, if having faith helps people get by or makes someone a better person then perhaps that’s all the ‘evidence’ required.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
So something you’ve ‘loosely read’ ‘all confirm most historians believe Jesus existed’??? So you haven’t even properly read the articles which you claim claim something done by suppose any of these historians cite contemporary evidence?
.
As noted Ive spoken to highly educated people in this area that have cited this fact .And yes Ive glossed over some archaeological studies in full by biblical archaeologists.Likewise Ive read a fair few books on the subject by biblical non religious/religious historians/scholars which are both New York times bestsellers that all support the case that Jesus existed.
Documents written 50-60 years later. I don’t suppose that all these documents you refer to were the New Testament 😆.
Its actually earlier . My apology's. These letters written by Paul were approximately twenty to thirty years after the generally accepted time period for the death of Jesus, around AD 30–36.
You’re really letting the side down when you start citing the fact we use a dating system based on the supposed birth of someone for whom there is no contemporary evidence of. The society that adopted this dating system was avowedly Christian. Hardly evidence. And that dating system came in 100s of years after the claimed birth of their claimed founder. No one is even certain that Dionysius Exiguous got the year right! Not the most reliable witness of something that supposedly happened 100s of years before.
.
Fair point but the fact remains it was all based on the impact of one man Jesus that tried to something good in his society at that time.
Look mate, if you believe, believe. That’s fine. Follow the teachings. That’s even better. But don’t come out with crap or stating that most historians say he existed. You just make yourself look stupid.
Its not stupid though Kingston its facing facts especially for the case of whether Jesus existed or not from the position of whether the majority of modern day historians believed this .I think your the one who is a bit naive here. Granted apart from the bible what we have is little in the way of other evidence but there are Jesus's earliest disciples and followers of them that were prepared to give up their lives and martyred in horrific circumstances"torn to pieces by lions and stoned to death" for the message Jesus gave when he was alive.Again this is backed up by ancient documents.
I think you need to look at the broader issue.As noted Ive spoken to people who have specialised in this area as a job all their working lives and are now retired and there in a position to understand the issue of who Jesus was far better than you or me.Hence unless you have a masters and Phd in this area I suggest you should respect these people a bit more as they've invested far more time and energy in this field of expertise than you or I have ever done.
I rewatched ‘Dead Man’s Shoes‘ last night. What a film, it is 1 of more favourite films so I am rather biased but 9/10.
A disaffected soldier returns to his hometown to get even with the thugs who brutalized his mentally-challenged brother years ago.
There is one particular scene that makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. Some of the dark humour is brilliant.
Shane Meadows and Paddy Considine are brilliant writers and directors. Got me in the mood to dust off ‘A Room for Romeo Brass’.
Yes Ive seen dead mans shoes .Powerful film.
I remember being impressed by Shane Meadows a few years back and buying a few of his films including " "twenty four seven.". I remember at the time liking the British angle he gave on his films.Hence a lot of his films were quite gritty and it was nice to see something directed by a quality British film director as opposed to the large majority of American films which I had seen on terrestrial tv .
a lot of his films were quite gritty and it was nice to see something directed by a quality British film director as opposed to the large majority of American films which I had seen
This was exactly it for me-it’s easy to be seduced by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and this opened my eyes to a world outside it, which produced great films without the huge budgets and fanfare.
I enjoyed ‘twentyfourseven’ too and the lesser known ‘Somers Town’ is a good watch also.
Considine has made 2 of his own films in ‘Tyrannosaur’ and ‘Journeyman’ which I think are amazing works. Well worth a look if you haven’t seen them already.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
After a journalist discovers his identity, a former Weather Underground activist goes on the run. Robert Redford and Shia LeBeouf among others in a good cast.
Decent watch 7/10
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Film about the troubles in Northern Ireland. Soldier gets separated from his unit in a Irish nationalist area and has to survive.
Very gritty and realistic.
I liked it immensely.
8/10
Agreed 8/10. A very good film.worth anyone’s time. Jack O’Connell is very good and is underrated for my money. If you haven’t seen it already I’d give ‘fifty dead men walking’ a go. Also a good film.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
If you haven’t seen it already I’d give ‘fifty dead men walking’ a go. Also a good film.
Thanks for the recommendation. No I haven't seen that film. Will check it out. Just googled it and good to see Ben Kingsley stars in it. In the parts Ive seen him play before in films eg" sexy beast released in 2000" thought he came across as a polished actor.
Has anyone seen the Coach's Playbook Rules for Life on Netflix? (A 5-part series so not really a film) I've found it interestingly good and it tells you about the coaches insight/love for the game from the coaches themselves inc. The Special One
Has anyone seen the Coach's Playbook Rules for Life on Netflix? (A 5-part series so not really a film) I've found it interestingly good and it tells you about the coaches insight/love for the game from the coaches themselves inc. The Special One
Not come across this mySelf. Will look it up. Cheers
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Eloise, having been relieved of maid of honor duties after being unceremoniously dumped by the best man via text, decides to attend the wedding anyway, only to find herself seated with five fellow unwanted guests at the dreaded Table 19.
Watched this with my better (aside from film choices) half. Phoebe from friends, Daryl from the American office, Anna Kendrick and the rest of the cast do their best with what they have to work with but it’s not great. Seen worse but My advice-don’t bother!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
World War II American Army Medic Desmond T. Doss, who served during the Battle of Okinawa, refuses to kill people, and becomes the first man in American history to receive the Medal of Honor without firing a shot.
8/10
Inspirational story and some of the most anxiety inducing and chaotic battle scenes ever put to film.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Moscow, 1953. After being in power for nearly thirty years, Soviet dictator Joseph Vissarionovich Stalin (Adrian McLoughlin) takes ill and quickly dies. Now the members of the Council of Ministers scramble for power.
8/10 Hilarious!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
To me religious faith by its very definition is believing In something in spite of little or no evidence to support that belief.
I am not religious and agree with the majority of what you are saying but really Rick doesn’t have to justify his faith by providing evidence. It is his truth and that’s what’s important at the end of the day, if having faith helps people get by or makes someone a better person then perhaps that’s all the ‘evidence’ required.
He bloody well does when he claims it is historical fact! If not where do you draw the line?
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
As noted Ive spoken to highly educated people in this area that have cited this fact .And yes Ive glossed over some archaeological studies in full by biblical archaeologists.Likewise Ive read a fair few books on the subject by biblical non religious/religious historians/scholars which are both New York times bestsellers that all support the case that Jesus existed.
[so something must be true because it was a best seller?! Come on man, you don’t seriously think that! There have been NO archaeologists who who said ‘you know what, we have proof that Jesus Christ existed and the Gospels are true. That would be THE sensation of the age. And archaeologists are apt to weave stories out of not much more than a few patches of darker earth.]
Its actually earlier . My apology's. These letters written by Paul were approximately twenty to thirty years after the generally accepted time period for the death of Jesus, around AD 30–36.
[apologies, you have me there on the alleged dating of Paul’s letters, assuming that they were written when claimed. And Paul had a particular view of the Jesus story that wasn’t accepted by all followers of Jesus until after Constantine imposed the Nicene Creed on everyone in the Roman Empire and persecuted folk with other views.]
Fair point but the fact remains it was all based on the impact of one man Jesus that tried to something good in his society at that time.
[just because the story is about a good man/said n of god doesn’t mean it’s true. Great story though it is, surely THE best ever, it does not mean it’s true. LOTR is a cracking story but it is fantasy]
Iam no expert but heres a few .Tactictus and Pliny the Younger .
[which works of Tacitus and Pliny reference Jesus? You might be no expert, I can accept that. Therefore without proper references, how can anyone take your word for it? Yes, I’m prepared to accept YOU BELIEVE it’s true, but claiming that that is the same as historical fact is not just going too far, but misleading.]
No but shes the head of our country and being a big royalist someone I respect and admire .
[hey, I have great respect for my late mother, but I don’t think she was right on lots of things]
Its not stupid though Kingston its facing facts especially for the case of whether Jesus existed or not from the position of whether the majority of modern day historians believed this .I think your the one who is a bit naive here. Granted apart from the bible what we have is little in the way of other evidence but there are Jesus's earliest disciples and followers of them that were prepared to give up their lives and martyred in horrific circumstances"torn to pieces by lions and stoned to death" for the message Jesus gave when he was alive.Again this is backed up by ancient documents.
[many people believed in Hitler and gave up their lives for his cause. Doesn’t make it right. I use that example purely to show the lack of logic in your argument. I’m not equating Jesus to Hitler.]
I think you need to look at the broader issue.As noted Ive spoken to people who have specialised in this area as a job all their working lives and are now retired and there in a position to understand the issue of who Jesus was far better than you or me.Hence unless you have a masters and Phd in this area I suggest you should respect these people a bit more as they've invested far more time and energy in this field of expertise than you or I have ever done
[So tell me who these people where that you’ve spoken to that understand the historicity of Jesus. They wouldn’t be non-historians would they?].
See above refutations of your arguments. Now I’m not knocking your faith. You can believe what you believe. And of all the things to believe in, the version of Jesus passed on in the accepted Gospels is a great thing to believe in. Believing in that DESPITE the lack of evidence might even have a great wisdom behind it if you accept the lack of evidence. But if you are claiming that people’s strong faith is the same as historical evidence then you are either confused or deliberately trying to mislead. I think better if you than that you are trying to mislead.
I’d have more respect if you accepted that no one has found any real evidence but that you still had faith, but that you said that you believed there was a deeper truth.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
He bloody well does when he claims it is historical fact! If not where do you draw the line?
I see your point entirely and even if you are factually correct (I have no idea either way, as I’m not religious and history is not a strong point of mine) , My point was not a right or wrong Issue per se, it was more related to faith and truth rather than fact.
As far as I’m concerned Rick or anyone could espouse the most wonderfully incorrect nonsense going and still not have to justify it to anyone so long as it’s not harm doing.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
See above refutations of your arguments. Now I’m not knocking your faith. You can believe what you believe. And of all the things to believe in, the version of Jesus passed on in the accepted Gospels is a great thing to believe in. Believing in that DESPITE the lack of evidence might even have a great wisdom behind it if you accept the lack of evidence. But if you are claiming that people’s strong faith is the same as historical evidence then you are either confused or deliberately trying to mislead. I think better if you than that you are trying to mislead.
I’d have more respect if you accepted that no one has found any real evidence but that you still had faith, but that you said that you believed there was a deeper truth.
Apology's for the late reply just seen your post.
Ive always had faith since little and Jesus is just an extension to that.
Unless you was there at the time of Jesus and saw him there is no other way of me convincing you he existed but Iam certain you would have seen him. Maybe not what he was in the bible which may of been exaggerated but certainly a devout Jewish preacher who tried to do something good and believed in something greater than him .
This historian puts it best :
“The reality is that we don’t have archaeological records for virtually anyone who lived in Jesus’s time and place,” says University of North Carolina religious studies professor Bart D. Ehrman, author of Did Jesus Exist? The Historical Argument for Jesus of Nazareth. “The lack of evidence does not mean a person at the time didn’t exist. It means that she or he, like 99.99% of the rest of the world at the time, made no impact on the archaeological record.”
You can pick holes in anything and I can debate your points until it becomes circular in argument and where do we stop?.
Ive actually been to the holy land and entered Jesus's tomb in the church of the Holy Selpulchre which I found a very moving experience .This has been a site of pilgrimage within 130 years of Jesus's death. All this is loosely backed up by National Geographic scientists who done research on the site . Likewise I have been to the Western Wall which is the holiest site of the Jewish faith of which Jesus was part of and where Jews go to pray to the present day . The wall was built 19 years before Christ. This is further solid archaeological evidence of which you cant dispute.
Instead of a potential Ifollow horror show this afternoon I watched Jojo Rabbit. A film about a 10 year old member of the Hitler Youth who has an imaginary friend that happens to be a bit of a camp version of Hitler, meanwhile his mother is hiding a Jewish girl in the loft. Definitely takes a different angle to the likes of Schindlers List but still pretty powerful stuff despite almost playing like a bit of a quirky kids film. Really enjoyed it and Taika Waititi continues to make brilliant and creative films.
"Our Only Friends Are The Japanese And Just Between You And Me, They Don't Look Very Aryan." 😁
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Story of the discovery of Sutton Hoo on the eve of the second world war. It's one of those genteel British films that I can take or leave, but I enjoyed it a lot. It's a fascinating story and if you like history as I do, it's recommended.
An Italian/American bouncer takes a gay, black concert pianist across the southern states of America during the 1960s. He acts as his driver/confidant/protector. True story. Heart warming and funny.
"The socialism I believe in is everybody working for the same goal and everybody having a share in the rewards. That’s how I see football, that’s how I see life.” Bill Shankly
Ive always had faith since little and Jesus is just an extension to that.
Unless you was there at the time of Jesus and saw him there is no other way of me convincing you he existed but Iam certain you would have seen him. Maybe not what he was in the bible which may of been exaggerated but certainly a devout Jewish preacher who tried to do something good and believed in something greater than him .
This historian puts it best :
“The reality is that we don’t have archaeological records for virtually anyone who lived in Jesus’s time and place,” says University of North Carolina religious studies professor Bart D. Ehrman, author of Did Jesus Exist? The Historical Argument for Jesus of Nazareth. “The lack of evidence does not mean a person at the time didn’t exist. It means that she or he, like 99.99% of the rest of the world at the time, made no impact on the archaeological record.”
You can pick holes in anything and I can debate your points until it becomes circular in argument and where do we stop?.
Ive actually been to the holy land and entered Jesus's tomb in the church of the Holy Selpulchre which I found a very moving experience .This has been a site of pilgrimage within 130 years of Jesus's death. All this is loosely backed up by National Geographic scientists who done research on the site . Likewise I have been to the Western Wall which is the holiest site of the Jewish faith of which Jesus was part of and where Jews go to pray to the present day . The wall was built 19 years before Christ. This is further solid archaeological evidence of which you cant dispute.
I don’t need to pick holes in this argument. They are there for all without blind faith to see. That ‘historian’ has set out to prove something, which proper historians would not do. He’s not even a historian - he’s a religious studies prof as your extract states!
Pointing out flaws in fallacious arguments isn’t circular. It’s the fallacious argument that ‘it must be true because you can’t prove he didn’t exist’ that is circular.
So this prof. He’s saying there is no impact on the archaeological record like 99.99% of people (probably correct). Agree it doesn’t prove Jesus never existed, but it sure as eggs are eggs does not prove he existed either. He’s basically admitting “there’s nothing to see here”.
Then there’s the site which has been a place of pilgrimage for 1900 years. Evidence of a cult does not prove anything either. There are ancient cult sites much older. Doesn’t mean that Ba’al or Mithras or any of the other myriad deities that people believed in existed either.
The Wailing Wall being built 19 years before Jesus’ birth proves nothing about whether Jesus existed. IT IS NOT ARCHAEOLOGICAL PROOF OF ANYTHING except that someone built a wall there in the first century BC. (I’m taking your date for the Wall as read - I don’t know when it was built, but I’d have guessed it was older than that).
A person’s feelings on being in a specific place or situation are also Not Historical evidence either (which is where we came in to this debate).
My advice would be to drop the claim that there is historical evidence for Jesus until you can come up with some real evidence. Your faith should be enough for you. You don’t need to justify your BELIEFS to me. The fact that I don’t think there is any historical evidence for Jesus does not mean that I don’t have any belief in him. I just don’t like claims that something is provable when it isn’t. Claims like that lead to all sorts of entanglements and trouble.
There’s more historical evidence for the Trojan War, King Arthur and Robin Hood (though not necessarily as the stories tell us) but they are far from accepted as fact by historians. Do I believe those things happened? Possibly yes. Would I be happy if they were proven true. Yes (maybe not the Trojan War bit because that would be unrelenting misery). Would I be happy if Jesus was proven to be a historical character anything like as good as the stories? Yes. Even if he was ‘just a good man’.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
I see your point entirely and even if you are factually correct (I have no idea either way, as I’m not religious and history is not a strong point of mine) , My point was not a right or wrong Issue per se, it was more related to faith and truth rather than fact.
As far as I’m concerned Rick or anyone could espouse the most wonderfully incorrect nonsense going and still not have to justify it to anyone so long as it’s not harm doing.
I’m not disputing faith. I’m disputing the claim that something is a historical fact when it isn’t a fact. Incorrect claims, even seemingly innocent ones that are made without malice, can often lead to unpredictable and harmful outcomes. Especially when attached to strong views on something.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Kern County Deputy Sheriff Joe Deacon is sent to Los Angeles for what should have been a quick evidence-gathering assignment. Instead, he becomes embroiled in the search for a serial killer who is terrorizing the city.
Pacing and editing issues but if you can suspend your belief enough there’s a decent enough movie in there. Denzel is likeable as always and Jared Leto is good again.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Story of the discovery of Sutton Hoo on the eve of the second world war. It's one of those genteel British films that I can take or leave, but I enjoyed it a lot. It's a fascinating story and if you like history as I do, it's recommended.
8/10
Just finished this Ginny. I’ve gone 9/10. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Just stumbled across this thread and had to add my penny's worth after seeing a reference to Early Doors.
I missed this wonderful comedy when it was first broadcast as I was living in Oz at the time.
A friend introduced me to it about 10 years ago and I thought it was bloody marvellous with some hilarious characters, not to mention their catch phrases such as Tommy "I'll stay on me own..."
I in turn introduced my brother in law to Early Doors who now says it's his favourite comedy of all time.
He traveled up from his home in Somerset to see the live show in Manchester which he described as one of the best nights of his life.
I learnt to love the Royle Family, despite not appreciating it when it first came out, as I was in my early 20s, so it was all about going out rather than watching TV, let alone watching people watch TV!
I think Early Doors pips RF for me though.
I was weighing up my 3 favourite comedy series and couldnt whittle it down, so had to go with my top 5 instead - see what you think...
Alan Partridge, The Office, Phoenix Nights, Early Doors, Peep Show.
Saxondale and Curb Your Enthusiasm almost made the cut, as did Royle Family.
Quite interesting that three of my top five are based in the North West, as are two of the three of my 'best of the rest'.
On to films...the last couple I really enjoyed at the cinema were Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and 1917.
Really enjoyed '71 as someone else mentioned and rewatched some of my all time favourites over Christmas - Trainspotting, Withnail and I, Apocalypse Now, The Departed and OJ Made in America (on iPlayer), a series of documentary film, which won an Oscar.
All the President's Men (iPlayer) is definitely worth a watch if you've not seen it, as are Gran Torino, La Haine, The Boxer and Crazy Heart.
Another film which I probably wouldn't have chosen to have seen at the flicks at the time were it not for a young lady...was Brokeback Mountain. How that didn't clear up at the Oscar's and win best picture is a joke.
My advice would be to drop the claim that there is historical evidence for Jesus until you can come up with some real evidence. Your faith should be enough for you. You don’t need to justify your BELIEFS to me. The fact that I don’t think there is any historical evidence for Jesus does not mean that I don’t have any belief in him. I just don’t like claims that something is provable when it isn’t. Claims like that lead to all sorts of entanglements and trouble.
There’s more historical evidence for the Trojan War, King Arthur and Robin Hood (though not necessarily as the stories tell us) but they are far from accepted as fact by historians. Do I believe those things happened? Possibly yes. Would I be happy if they were proven true. Yes (maybe not the Trojan War bit because that would be unrelenting misery). Would I be happy if Jesus was proven to be a historical character anything like as good as the stories? Yes. Even if he was ‘just a good man’.
I am genuinely glad you have some faith in Jesus. I think the biggest example of Jesus's presence can be seen though by his actions and the testimony he left behind. Trying to create a better society for everyone through love for all and a belief in a higher power. Its why there are over 2.3 billion followers of Christianity in the world today. Likewise science confirms this view as well. If a child doesn't get love in the catchment age of approximately 0-11 years their brains will forever be impaired.
History has been one of man trying to understand what created the universe. Some think its chance whilst the majority in polls have some sort of belief in the divine.
Guru Nanak and the Sikh religion is the newest of the worlds main religions started in 1500 CE. He was another one who expressed similar sentiments to Jesus. Ive seen this as well as stated before in another thread. A Sikh maths teacher I had in collage was a cut above any teacher/lecturers I ever had . He had a strong belief in God and tried living a good life.
One of the best concrete example of religions in my view which we can see today is the Native American view. They believe in a divine creator "Wakantanka" .Their whole belief stems largely around worshipping and living in harmony with planet earth and worshipping the divine. Granted there aren't that many followers left due to the way they were treated in history but some descendants of Native Americans still try to follow the old way.
I think there is some truth in all religions and I try to take something from every one.
Just stumbled across this thread and had to add my penny's worth after seeing a reference to Early Doors.
I missed this wonderful comedy when it was first broadcast as I was living in Oz at the time.
A friend introduced me to it about 10 years ago and I thought it was bloody marvellous with some hilarious characters, not to mention their catch phrases such as Tommy "I'll stay on me own..."
I in turn introduced my brother in law to Early Doors who now says it's his favourite comedy of all time.
He traveled up from his home in Somerset to see the live show in Manchester which he described as one of the best nights of his life.
I learnt to love the Royle Family, despite not appreciating it when it first came out, as I was in my early 20s, so it was all about going out rather than watching TV, let alone watching people watch TV!
I think Early Doors pips RF for me though.
I was weighing up my 3 favourite comedy series and couldnt whittle it down, so had to go with my top 5 instead - see what you think...
Alan Partridge, The Office, Phoenix Nights, Early Doors, Peep Show.
Saxondale and Curb Your Enthusiasm almost made the cut, as did Royle Family.
Quite interesting that three of my top five are based in the North West, as are two of the three of my 'best of the rest'.
On to films...the last couple I really enjoyed at the cinema were Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and 1917.
Really enjoyed '71 as someone else mentioned and rewatched some of my all time favourites over Christmas - Trainspotting, Withnail and I, Apocalypse Now, The Departed and OJ Made in America (on iPlayer), a series of documentary film, which won an Oscar.
All the President's Men (iPlayer) is definitely worth a watch if you've not seen it, as are Gran Torino, La Haine, The Boxer and Crazy Heart.
The Fighter, not The Boxer. Might help if I could get the title right 🤦🏻♂️
The Fighter, not The Boxer. Might help if I could get the title right 🤦🏻♂️
The Fighter is an excellent film. I love the boxing film genre as a whole, Cinderella Man, Raging Bull, Journey man etc. I watched Mr Calzaghe on Prime recently and thoroughly enjoyed it, he's probably the best British boxer in my lifetime so it was good to relive his career as well as getting some context on his personal struggles during his rise.
Looking forward to the forthcoming Bruno vs Tyson documentary as well.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Watched The Dig twice as my wife issued it the first time.
Going back to archaeological digs, don’t they say absence of proof isn’t proof of absence?
That’s correct. Some seem to think though that absence of proof is proof of something because it hasn’t been disproved.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Going back to films. Just watched Waterloo for the umpteenth time. Loads of errors and holes in it, but a great film. Plummer and Steiger WERE Wellington and Bonaparte. The spectacle is incredible - real men and real horses by the thousand (made in 1970 by a Soviet director with the assistance of the Red Army who provided the extras). Captured my imagination 50 years ago and fed a lifelong fascination.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
In a twilight world of international espionage, an unnamed CIA operative, known as The Protagonist, is recruited by a mysterious organization called Tenet to participate in a global assignment that unfolds beyond real time. The mission: prevent Andrei Sator, a renegade Russian oligarch with precognition abilities, from starting World War III. The Protagonist will soon master the art of "time inversion" as a way of countering the threat that is to come.
Like Inception and memento rolled into one. Like those films I will be watching this again. It baffled me at times but it does all come together enough at the end.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The Fighter is an excellent film. I love the boxing film genre as a whole, Cinderella Man, Raging Bull, Journey man etc. I watched Mr Calzaghe on Prime recently and thoroughly enjoyed it, he's probably the best British boxer in my lifetime so it was good to relive his career as well as getting some context on his personal struggles during his rise.
Looking forward to the forthcoming Bruno vs Tyson documentary as well.
Have you seen "sons of Cuba "?. Good portrayal of how young Cuban boxers train .
A University of Texas professor of philosophy and capital punishment abolitionist, David Gale, finds himself on Death Row convicted of murder. Days before his execution, skeptical journalist Bitsey Bloom is sent to conduct David Gale's final interview. Unaware that she would not be investigating Dr. Gale, Bitsey and her sympathetic intern leave to Texas for what is to become a story of a lifetime.
A brilliant film.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Big shot political analyst gets involved in a small town mayoral race and it escalates into an all out battle between Republicans and Democrats, with each party throwing more and more resources at the 2 candidates.
There is a twist to the story at the end, but it's basically a whimsical comedy/drama of the type the Americans churn out in their hundreds. It was ok but instantly forgettable. Had to go and look up the name of the film this morning as I had forgotten it from last night.
Kern County Deputy Sheriff Joe Deacon is sent to Los Angeles for what should have been a quick evidence-gathering assignment. Instead, he becomes embroiled in the search for a serial killer who is terrorizing the city.
Pacing and editing issues but if you can suspend your belief enough there’s a decent enough movie in there. Denzel is likeable as always and Jared Leto is good again.
Watched this last night and it annoyed the sh1t out of me. After the third time a I said to myself "that wouldn't really happen", I lost interest. Carried on to the end but it didn't get any better.
Watched this last night and it annoyed the sh1t out of me. After the third time a I said to myself "that wouldn't really happen", I lost interest. Carried on to the end but it didn't get any better.
5/10
I can totally see that point of view. In hindsight I was probably one star too generous to be honest. Shame really because Washington is always good and I thought Leto was very creepy and convincing.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The Trial of the Chicago 7 (on Netflix) The film follows the Chicago Seven, a group of anti–Vietnam War protesters charged with conspiracy and crossing state lines with the intention of inciting riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
Funny at times but deeply disturbing at others - I found an entertaining film
The Trial of the Chicago 7 (on Netflix) The film follows the Chicago Seven, a group of anti–Vietnam War protesters charged with conspiracy and crossing state lines with the intention of inciting riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
Funny at times but deeply disturbing at others - I found an entertaining film
I really enjoyed this film too. I would recommend ‘just mercy’ off the back of this film.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I really enjoyed this film too. I would recommend ‘just mercy’ off the back of this film.
Agree on Just Mercy - the scene leading up to the execution was tough - great book as well Would also like to visit the National Memorial for Peace and Justice if I get a chance to go back to Alabama again
Agree on Just Mercy - the scene leading up to the execution was tough - great book as well Would also like to visit the National Memorial for Peace and Justice if I get a chance to go back to Alabama again
Yeah it made me really uncomfortable to the point my palms were sweaty. To coin the word you used I found it disturbing. Absolute injustice.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I saw that and thought it very good, although the follow up seem to have something missing, Just didn't seem as good.
Yes I agree DB. Having said that there were some very intense scenes in the 2nd equalizer film especially the one where Denzel Washington trys to persuade the youngster he has taken under his wing to not go with that crowd that live a life of crime.
Just watched Land of Mine, about German POWs in 1945 having to clear land mines the Germans had planted in Denmark. Not one to relax you! But good, engaging, thought-provoking film.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
When Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi disappears in Istanbul, his fiancée and dissidents around the world piece together the clues to a murder and expose a global cover up.
Disturbing.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
In the wake of a disaster that wipes out most of civilization, two men and a young woman find themselves in an emotionally charged love triangle as the last known survivors.
Not your typical post apocalyptic film and surprisingly enjoyed it.
Red Joan 6/10
English-born Joan Stanley (Dame Judi Dench), a Soviet and Communist Party sympathizer, becomes employed as a British government civil servant, and gets recruited by the K.G.B. in the mid 1930s. She successfully transfers nuclear bomb secrets to Soviet Russia, which enables them to keep up with the west in the development of atomic weapons, and remains undetected as a spy for over a half a century.
Whilst I don’t regret watching it-it was entertaining enough and I’ve seen worse but this was instantly forgettable.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Inspired by the true events of the 1976 hijacking of an Air France flight en route from Tel Aviv to Paris, and the most daring rescue mission ever attempted.
Didn’t like the interpretive dance bits of it but not quite sure I get the dislike or panning from the critics it got.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Inspired by the true events of the 1976 hijacking of an Air France flight en route from Tel Aviv to Paris, and the most daring rescue mission ever attempted.
Didn’t like the interpretive dance bits of it but not quite sure I get the dislike or panning from the critics it got.
I saw this a couple of months ago and it was a lot better than I expected. 6/10 is fair though. I didn’t like the interpretative dance bits either apart from right at the end when it was more powerful. Rosamund Pike felt miscast.
Not seen that. How does it compare to Raid at Entebbe? From what I remember that was a decent film.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
I saw this a couple of months ago and it was a lot better than I expected. 6/10 is fair though. I didn’t like the interpretative dance bits either apart from right at the end when it was more powerful. Rosamund Pike felt miscast.
Fair point on Pike I reckon. I like you haven’t seen the film Kingston refers to.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The story of a team of female African-American mathematicians who served a vital role in NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program.
Really enjoyed this film-a real gem!
Good film. US treatment of black people was always an Achilles Heel in the Cold War propaganda game.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
about a metal drummer who loses his hearing...on Amazon
Watched this on the weekend. Won't be for everyone but I was fully engaged with it, the wife less so. I'm a big fan of Riz Ahmed, think he's a great actor.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Watched this on the weekend. Won't be for everyone but I was fully engaged with it, the wife less so. I'm a big fan of Riz Ahmed, think he's a great actor.
Totally agree with this. Ahmed is a great actor and it seems the film world is catching on at long last.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Good documentary for music lovers - I watched it on Amazon Prime (but I think it may be coming off there shortly)
Located alongside the Tennessee River, Muscle Shoals, Alabama is the unlikely breeding ground for some of America's most creative and defiant music. Under the spiritual influence of the 'Singing River' as Native Americans called it, the music of Muscle Shoals changed the world and sold millions upon millions of copies. At its heart is Rick Hall who founded FAME Studios. Overcoming crushing poverty and staggering tragedies, he brought black and white together in Alabama's cauldron of racial hostility to create music for the generations while giving birth to the 'Muscle Shoals Sound' and 'The Swampers'. Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Percy Sledge, Gregg Allman, Clarence Carter, Etta James, Alicia Keys, Bono, and others bear witness to Muscle Shoals' magnetism, mystery, and why it remains influential today.
The Swampers are the session musicians mentioned in the lyrics of Sweet Home Alabama: Now Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers And they've been known to pick a song or two Lord they give me oh so much They pick me up when I'm feeling blue Now how about you?
In the shadow of the Cold War a letter from Oleg Penkovsky (Merab Ninidze) an agency of the Soviet Union received by M16 stating the concern of Penkovsky about world safety and his anxiety about a nuclear war, So Emily Donovan (Rachel Brosnahan) a CIA Agent reached out to MI6 Agent Dickie Franks (Angus Wright) , who recruited British salesman Greville Wynne (Benedict Cumberbatch) to be their spy.
A gem of a movie this one with a typically committed turn from Benedict Cumberbatch and also from Merab Ninidze too. Surprised this didn’t get more coverage and fanfare- A ‘proper’ film in my book!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Watched Sex Ed the other night. Unusually for an American film the guy didn’t get the girl in the end, which immediately puts it in a class of its own 😁. But it did work out fine in the end through other means.
Serious point about the film, which applies equally to the UK, but not most grown-up countries.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Watched it years ago with my niece who was studying media/ film at the time...dont think either of us said a word during the film or for about two hours after.
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Watched it years ago with my niece who was studying media/ film at the time...dont think either of us said a word during the film or for about two hours after.
Exceptional film. One of my favourite films of recent times.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
A Biopic on the life of the legendary American Astronaut Neil Armstrong from 1961-1969, on his journey to becoming the first human to walk the moon. Exploring the sacrifices and costs on the Nation and Neil himself, during one of the most dangerous missions in the history of space travel.
I had high expectations for this film and was mildly disappointed and at times bored during it. Armstrong was portrayed as not particularly likeable and it was perhaps a tad too long.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Mysterious and wild-eyed, a new security guard for a cash truck surprises his co-workers when he unleashes precision skills during a heist. The crew is left wondering who he is and where he came from. Soon, the marksman's ultimate motive becomes clear as he takes dramatic and irrevocable steps to settle a score.
Standard Statham fare and of course it’s absolutely bull5hit but enjoyable nonetheless.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A teenage murder witness finds himself pursued by twin assassins in the Montana wilderness with a survival expert tasked with protecting him -- and a forest fire threatening to consume them all.
Turn your brain off nonsense that’s rescued just about by it’s cast and director. Not up to Taylor Sheridans normal work which is high quality but hey ho, there we are.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The Wipers Times has just been on down here again. Great stuff based on a real satirical magazine produced on the Western Front in WWI. Sort of an early 20th century Private Eye. Think Hislop was involved in the original stage version. 8/10
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Saw Goal(2005) the other day again. Great film about a poor Chilean who comes good in the world of professional football. Goal 11:Living the dream (2007) is decent as well. Many on here may have seen it but in my view its one I can watch again and again. Most young kids dream to live the dream and become a professional footballer especially in the upper echelons of the game.
On Sony Movies Classic now, The Victors. 1963 US (anti)war film about a squad of US infantry in NW Europe 1944-45. Interspersed with upbeat newsreel that usually contrasts starkly with the reality for the men on the ground. Has a memorable Christmas 1944 execution scene to the tune of Christmas classic songs.
Seen it before and we’ll worth watching again.
9/10 maybe a 10.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Just watched Casablanca for the first time. Enjoyable film. Very enjoyable. Great dialogue with the secondary characters, especially the Claude Rains character. Ingrid Bergman helps.
8/10
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Just watched Casablanca for the first time. Enjoyable film. Very enjoyable. Great dialogue with the secondary characters, especially the Claude Rains character. Ingrid Bergman helps.
8/10
Was just about to mention this, I've seen it a dozen times though. It's one of me all time favourite films of all time mate* A film made in 1942, the scene in the bar were the French inspired by Viktor Lazlo belt out the Marseillaise against the Germans and the Horst Wessell song, or some such Nazi song, is brilliant. The whole film is brilliantly written, acted and filmed an all time classic and well worth the 9.75/10 that I am awarding it.
*stolen from Smashie and Nicey.
And when you fall back into the mud it hurts a lot. No! None of it was true, none of those things we thought we could see existed at all. All that was really there was still more misery
Just watched Casablanca for the first time. Enjoyable film. Very enjoyable. Great dialogue with the secondary characters, especially the Claude Rains character. Ingrid Bergman helps.
8/10
10/10 one of my favourites. It doesn't matter how many times you watch it the film seems to draw you in.
You can please some of the forumites some of the time but not all the forumites all of the time
What’s remarkable is the speed they rushed it out at.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
A drag queen comes to the rescue of a man who, after inheriting his father's shoe factory, needs to diversify his product if he wants to keep the business afloat.
Not the greatest film you will ever see but it was entertaining and Chiwetel Ejiofor was excellent.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Saw Black Hawk Down(2001) again recently . Very moving true story of what happened in Somalia in 1993 where American soldiers lost their lives. The soundtrack to the film is very good as well.
Saw Black Hawk Down(2001) again recently . Very moving true story of what happened in Somalia in 1993 where American soldiers lost their lives. The soundtrack to the film is very good as well.
No argument from me on this one Rick. One of my favourite films and the soundtrack is brilliant!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
No argument from me on this one Rick. One of my favourite films and the soundtrack is brilliant!
Heartbreaking as well what happened to some of the captured soldiers who were killed. Dragged around the streets .Not to mention other soldiers who lost their lives in the battle for Mogadishu eg Malaysian and Pakistani .
Offered a plea deal by the FBI, William O'Neal infiltrates the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party to gather intelligence on Chairman Fred Hampton.
Watched this last night. I really enjoyed it. A cracking yet frightening film.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Heartbreaking as well what happened to some of the captured soldiers who were killed. Dragged around the streets .Not to mention other soldiers who lost their lives in the battle for Mogadishu eg Malaysian and Pakistani .
Don’t forget about the hundreds or thousands of Somalis (civilians and militia) killed by the Americans in the same incident. No lessons were learned from it (same all over again in Iraq and Afghanistan, on a bigger scale).
Good film though.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Don’t forget about the hundreds or thousands of Somalis (civilians and militia) killed by the Americans in the same incident. No lessons were learned from it (same all over again in Iraq and Afghanistan, on a bigger scale).
Good film though.
I don't know all the inns and outs of the battle for Mogadishu only a brief outline but collateral damage sadly does happen during military operations. As for the militia dying what do you expect if there against the Americans. They have to defend themselves when being fired upon. It's kill or be killed sometimes in warfare.
Your more of a history buff than me with regards to the Americans not learning their lessons so I have to respect what your saying. What I would say though is some of the tactics employed by the Taliban were shocking to say the least. Used children in known Taliban strongholds . When the Americans dropped bombs on them targets with children sadly dying the Taliban used that as propaganda war against the Americans.
Extraction 6/10 Brainless and breathless action film starring Chris Hemsworth that is 16 Blocks, come Mile 22 crossed with The Raid and John Wick. Plenty of bullet ballet and scarcely believable but highly choreographed fight scenes. Not great but suspend your belief at the start and it’s entertaining enough.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I don't know all the inns and outs of the battle for Mogadishu only a brief outline but collateral damage sadly does happen during military operations. As for the militia dying what do you expect if there against the Americans. They have to defend themselves when being fired upon. It's kill or be killed sometimes in warfare.
Your more of a history buff than me with regards to the Americans not learning their lessons so I have to respect what your saying. What I would say though is some of the tactics employed by the Taliban were shocking to say the least. Used children in known Taliban strongholds . When the Americans dropped bombs on them targets with children sadly dying the Taliban used that as propaganda war against the Americans.
Look at it from the other side. The militia in Somalia were defending their country against invading Americans. I know it’s not as simple as that, but it’s not a case of the Americans being attacked and defending themselves. Could apply the same argument to the Germans in occupied Europe. (I’m not equating the Yanks to the Nazis).
Same in Afghanistan. That was a doomed mission before it started. As every other invasion has ultimately failed. Us, 3 or 4 times, then the Soviets. Or closer to the Yanks’ own experience Vietnam (see comment above about people defending their country against invaders).
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Look at it from the other side. The militia in Somalia were defending their country against invading Americans. I know it’s not as simple as that, but it’s not a case of the Americans being attacked and defending themselves.
I think though sometimes force is necessary for the greater good. Although General Ayid agreed to a cease fire imposed by international pressure originally there were still waring militias some linked to him who ignored it and continued fighting and looting international food delivarys. Bear in mind as well that near the end of 1991 estimates suggest there were 4.5 million Somalians on the brink of starving to death.
Having said that you do make good points on looking at the deeper picture. Reading history websites on Google highlight that Somalians felt let down in 1977 when the Americans didn't intervene when they desperately needed help following the war against Ethiopia. Not just in Africa either. I know when I read King Hussein of Jordans biography recently he often felt let down by the Americans when he was trying to foster a deal with Israeli politicians over securing stability in the Middle East. He felt sometimes the Americans were trying to do what was best for them in the rise of perceived communist threat from Russia.
I think that’s true most of the time about the Americans, and any country. They’re doing what they think is best for them. That’s not to say altruism doesn’t play a part. As do various other interest groups applying pressure on governments.
Agree with you on the wider picture on Somalia and the reasons the UN sent in forces. The problem is the Yanks were gung ho and also a law unto themselves. The attempt to arrest those Aydeed lieutenants which led to the battle, followed on from a previous bungled operation. In that one they had intelligence that there was a meeting of hostile militia leaders, so they bombed the building and killed a load of innocents- not just ‘collateral damage’ but the leaders at the meeting were there to discuss how they could bring about peace. This provoked wider spread antagonism to the Yanks and was why ordinary Somalis as well as militia attacked them.
It’s also significant that the US forces were based at the airfield to the west and the UN were based at the sports stadium to the east of the city. As the film shows, there was no trust between the ‘partners’ and the Pakistanis and Malaysians had to pull the Americans’ chestnuts out of the fire.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
A bystander who intervenes to help a woman being harassed by a group of men becomes the target of a vengeful drug lord.
Has the spirit of an 80s action film mixed with a touch of ‘the Equaliser’ and a body count to match ‘The Raid’. Understated performance from Bob Odenkirk who is excellent and a great cameo from Christoper Lloyd. Perhaps shouldn’t have enjoyed it as much as I did but hey ho.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A bystander who intervenes to help a woman being harassed by a group of men becomes the target of a vengeful drug lord.
Has the spirit of an 80s action film mixed with a touch of ‘the Equaliser’ and a body count to match ‘The Raid’. Understated performance from Bob Odenkirk who is excellent and a great cameo from Christoper Lloyd. Perhaps shouldn’t have enjoyed it as much as I did but hey ho.
Yeah, I enjoyed it too. I'm a big fan of Bob Odenkirk.
Yeah, I enjoyed it too. I'm a big fan of Bob Odenkirk.
Yeah I’m with you there. I think this may open up more roles for him to be fair.
Apparently it was based on an idea by Bob, who dealt with a home invasion himself by trapping the trespassers in the basement. He was frustrated with how the authorities dealt with the situation and had thought about how he would take the matter into his own hands if he "was a badass."
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I've seen this film many times....but Tinker Taylor Soldier Spy.....Gary Oldman brilliant. I did also watch the 1970s tv series which is superb with Alek Guinness.....
Also (because I'm a semi-French nob) Bienvenue Chez Les Chti - (Welcome to the house of the Chti) great French comedy about guy from the south going the the North ("oh no, not Paris?"..."no, no THE NORTH") ... this is the region my wife is from (Le Nord) - basically Calais....Dunkirk...Lille and around there... they are all drunkards and speak with weird accents.... The French basically look at that part of the world like the a lotof English do to Grimsby...
I've seen this film many times....but Tinker Taylor Soldier Spy.....Gary Oldman brilliant. I did also watch the 1970s tv series which is superb with Alek Guinness.....
What I would call a ‘proper’ film. Great cast and relies on the plot and intrigue for its appeal. Smileys People has been in pre production for years and whichever studio has it needs to pull their fingers out!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Yeah, I enjoyed it too. I'm a big fan of Bob Odenkirk.
Just read he’s collapsed on set of the latest series of better call Saul and is in Hospital. Described as a heart related incident- whatever that actually means.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Watched one of my favourite’war films’ last night. Master & Commander. This film has it all. Not just a shoot em up film. Seems pretty accurate too historically speaking (though naval stuff isn’t my area, and I’ve not read the book which I found impenetrable as they’re stuffed with sailing lingo). For one thing it doesn’t have my particular bugbear, exploding canon balls.
“Quick is the word and swift is the action.”
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Watched one of my favourite’war films’ last night. Master & Commander. This film has it all. Not just a shoot em up film. Seems pretty accurate too historically speaking (though naval stuff isn’t my area, and I’ve not read the book which I found impenetrable as they’re stuffed with sailing lingo). For one thing it doesn’t have my particular bugbear, exploding canon balls.
“Quick is the word and swift is the action.”
A really good film and one I’ve not watched in years. I wouldn’t immediately say Crowe is my favourite actor but he’s in many of my favourite films. Especially from about 1998 onwards when he had a great run of excellent movies.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Early 1970s. Four strangers check in at the El Royale Hotel. The hotel is deserted, staffed by a single desk clerk. Some of the new guests' reasons for being there are less than innocent and some are not who they appear to be.
A gem of a movie. Had a feel of Tarantino about it and a great soundtrack. A touch of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, The Hateful Eight and the John Cusack film Identity.
Bit of a surprise this one but I loved it.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Watched one of my favourite’war films’ last night. Master & Commander. This film has it all. Not just a shoot em up film. Seems pretty accurate too historically speaking (though naval stuff isn’t my area, and I’ve not read the book which I found impenetrable as they’re stuffed with sailing lingo). For one thing it doesn’t have my particular bugbear, exploding canon balls.
“Quick is the word and swift is the action.”
A really good film and it contains the ever funny "lesser of two weevils" joke.
And when you fall back into the mud it hurts a lot. No! None of it was true, none of those things we thought we could see existed at all. All that was really there was still more misery
A really good film and it contains the ever funny "lesser of two weevils" joke.
“Aha! There I have you!”
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
It’s hard to describe it. Incredible. Moving. Shocking. Humane.
It’s a film of the memoirs of Norman Lewis in 1943-44. Described on IMDB as a documentary, but that doesn’t really cover it at all. The film is a montage of newsreel and old film extracts picked to illustrate what was being talked about in the narration. Benedict Cumberbatch was reading the memoirs.
Naples comes over as an incredible, complex society, with all sorts of strange customs. Somehow the people dragged themselves through a horrific time. Bombed by the Allies (who destroyed the water system and other utilities infrastructure in the process), then the Germans blew up what they could of remaining infrastructure when they retreated.
Highly recommended viewing.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
The International. Just been on one of the Freeview channels. Starts as a pretty standard conspiracy movie, good cop versus a system that is bureaucratic when not outright corrupt. So-so. Then it descends into a big shootout (implausible as so often) but it was still quite a long time before the end of the film, so this wasn’t the climax. The actual final scenes get to the heart of the matter. I won’t spoil the plot, but if you appreciate Lord of War this is in a related space.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Supervillains Harley Quinn, Bloodsport, Peacemaker and a collection of nutty cons at Belle Reve prison join the super-secret, super-shady Task Force X as they are dropped off at the remote, enemy-infused island of Corto Maltese.
So much better than the first attempt. I perhaps shouldn’t have but I really enjoyed it.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Another un-Hollywood Hollywood war film. The Victors (1963). Episodic journey of a squad of US infantrymen through Europe in WWII. Despite having star names in it, it isn’t a vehicle for stars. It feels like the filming of someone’s memoirs. Has a memorable Christmas 1944 scene.
On now on Freeview channel 51. First time I’ve seen it from the beginning.
PS if you want an action movie, this isn’t one. Very little in the way of combat.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Aaron Falk returns to his drought-stricken hometown to attend a tragic funeral. But his return opens a decades-old wound - the unsolved death of a teenage girl.
Australian crime drama with Eric Bana which was surprisingly good.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A working-class Italian-American bouncer becomes the driver of an African-American classical pianist on a tour of venues through the 1960s American South.
Brilliant film.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A young programmer is selected to participate in a ground-breaking experiment in synthetic intelligence by evaluating the human qualities of a highly advanced humanoid A.I.
As a rule I’m not much in to Sci-Fi or more accurately don’t gravitate towards it but, I watched this because of a recommendation and I was very impressed.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A young programmer is selected to participate in a ground-breaking experiment in synthetic intelligence by evaluating the human qualities of a highly advanced humanoid A.I.
As a rule I’m not much in to Sci-Fi or more accurately don’t gravitate towards it but, I watched this because of a recommendation and I was very impressed.
Really enjoyed ex machina. Reminds me a bit of a film done by Will Smith in I Robot(2004). I dont think it was as good as ex machina though.
The White Tiger (2021). Interesting look at a young Indian guys rise from poverty. I enjoyed this a lot and although the inspiration from the film came from a book you can see this sort of thing loosely happening in real life.
Really enjoyed ex machina. Reminds me a bit of a film done by Will Smith in I Robot(2004). I dont think it was as good as ex machina though.
I enjoyed I, Robot too and obviously there are similar themes with ex-Machina. The former is a popcorn movie type and the latter is a bit darker for my money. Not seen the White Tiger but I have added to my ever expanding ‘to watch’ list.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Not seen the White Tiger but I have added to my ever expanding ‘to watch’ list.
Of interest Sandford do you have Netflix or Amazon prime . I use to have Amazon prime but switched to Netflix. I find overall the quality is better . Some really good series on there as well. My favourite to date has been Narcos which is about the true story of Pablo Escobar the Columbian drugs lynchpin.
Of interest Sandford do you have Netflix or Amazon prime . I use to have Amazon prime but switched to Netflix. I find overall the quality is better . Some really good series on there as well. My favourite to date has been Narcos which is about the true story of Pablo Escobar the Columbian drugs lynchpin.
I have both plus Disney n sky. It’s almost a necessity with my kids. But I can’t blame them, I watch a lot of tv, film and documentaries. Far too much but not always being the best sleeper helps. I’m no Barry Norman or Jonathan Ross (phew) but along with footy and cricket, good tv and films are a huge passion of mine. I really enjoyed Narcos and the first season of Narcos: Mexico as well.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I have both plus Disney n sky. It’s almost a necessity with my kids. But I can’t blame them, I watch a lot of tv, film and documentaries. Far too much but not always being the best sleeper helps. I’m no Barry Norman or Jonathan Ross (phew) but along with footy and cricket, good tv and films are a huge passion of mine. I really enjoyed Narcos and the first season of Narcos: Mexico as well.
That's some catalogue your subscribed to 😮 . I've always been tempted to subscribe to disney just for the national geographic programmes. Iam a subscriber to national geographic magazine and find it excellent.
A very very strong link with being a genius and a link with schizophrenia. Still touches me every time I watch it.
I’m not schizophrenic are we?
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
The film I watched tonight was the Lord of the Rings meets the Last of the Mohicans. In sandals. In Scotland. At least that’s how I imagine the pitch for the Eagle.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
The film I watched tonight was the Lord of the Rings meets the Last of the Mohicans. In sandals. In Scotland. At least that’s how I imagine the pitch for the Eagle.
I’d assume the same, that pitch by a good salesman is how it got made. I didn’t mind it at all but it’s not the greatest. Those other two however are brilliant with great scores.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I’d assume the same, that pitch by a good salesman is how it got made. I didn’t mind it at all but it’s not the greatest. Those other two however are brilliant with great scores.
I agree on all three counts.
Wes Studi is superb in LOTM. The dialogue in it is very good too. The siege and battle scene where the column gets attacked are very well done. I’m a bit of a military history geek, especially that period, and it’s one of the best I’ve seen. The battle where the redcoats whup the Rebels in the Patriot is very good too. Shame the rest of the film is hokum.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Wes Studi is superb in LOTM. The dialogue in it is very good too. The siege and battle scene where the column gets attacked are very well done. I’m a bit of a military history geek, especially that period, and it’s one of the best I’ve seen. The battle where the redcoats whup the Rebels in the Patriot is very good too. Shame the rest of the film is hokum.
That’s inspired me to dust it off for the weekend and treat Mrs Sandford to it as she’s never seen it (I know!). LOTM is a film I used to watch with my dad repeatedly when I was younger. I always remember being really haunted at the burning scene-perhaps I was a little young for it.
Have you seen Hostiles?
I quite like The Patriot purely as a movie. I’m no historian or military man though I have to confess. Speaking of my Dad, he cannot stand Mel Gibson off the back of it and Braveheart.😂
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I’ve not seen Hostiles. It’s quite recent isn’t it? I’ll have to look it up.
I’m against Gibson as a person. Never seen Braveheart, but it’s apparently historical bollux too. One of his I did like, and it gets good reviews from vets is We Were Soldiers.
Big bugbear for me is on those period films when cannonballs explode. They were solid iron! That’s one of the things the Patriot got right. Bit niche I know 😁
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
I’ve not seen Hostiles. It’s quite recent isn’t it? I’ll have to look it up.
I’m against Gibson as a person. Never seen Braveheart, but it’s apparently historical bollux too. One of his I did like, and it gets good reviews from vets is We Were Soldiers.
Big bugbear for me is on those period films when cannonballs explode. They were solid iron! That’s one of the things the Patriot got right. Bit niche I know 😁
Hostiles is what I would call an old school western and it has Wes Studi in it. I really enjoyed it and the scenery is amazing.
Braveheart again like The Patriot is a film I liked purely on its merits rather than historical accuracy but I can see why it may annoy those who can’t see past it.
We were Soldiers is a really good film.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
It’s probably the anti-English agenda of those two films that irk me most.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
LOTM is one of my all time favourite films and the music is awesome.
I've always been fascinated by native American culture and have a few books on the subject. LOTM is one of the few fairly accurate portrayals of the times.
Geronimo also has Wes Studi in the lead and is a very good film.
Talking of Dances with Wolves. I thought I was developing an understanding with a fox that used to visit our garden. I stopped chasing him off after the missus saw him with a rat in his mouth (he was useful!). He was quite cute and would sit there on the grass and we would look each other in the eye. Mutual tolerance. So the missus called me Dances With Foxes.
Then the little fūcker drunk in our porch and chewed my ‘best’ shoes. Next time I saw the cûnt I only just missed him with a stone.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Talking of Dances with Wolves. I thought I was developing an understanding with a fox that used to visit our garden. I stopped chasing him off after the missus saw him with a rat in his mouth (he was useful!). He was quite cute and would sit there on the grass and we would look each other in the eye. Mutual tolerance. Do the missus called me Dances With Foxes.
Then the little fūcker drunk in our porch and chewed my ‘best’ shoes. Next time I saw the cûnt I only just missed him with a stone.
Well at least he wasn't stone drunk in your porch!
You can please some of the forumites some of the time but not all the forumites all of the time
Well at least he wasn't stone drunk in your porch!
👏👏👏
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Absolutely adore that film. Still hurts to see how much the Native American Indians have suffered. The first inhabitants of America and bullied of their land for profit.
Absolutely adore that film. Still hurts to see how much the Native American Indians have suffered. The first inhabitants of America and bullied of their land for profit.
With you on both counts there Rick.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
👍. It's still happening now though in other parts of the world as well sadly. Native tribes in Brazil loosing land to illegal logging or in Honduras where local African people who have inhabited local coastlines for centuries have gone missing by unscrupulous government putting pressure on them to move out so they can sell to investors.
Stephen Lawrence was a black London teenager attacked by white racists. His mother Doreen and father Neville fought to have the events properly investigated, culminating in a judicial enquiry into the events, and the inadequate investigation into the events by the Metropolitan Police, London's police force.
A watch almost as good, as it is infuriating.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The story of the ongoing struggle by Doreen and Neville Lawrence to achieve justice and how a detective, DCI Clive Driscoll - working closely with the Lawrences - puts together an investigation that finally - more than 18 years after his death - secures the convictions of two of the gang who committed the murder of Stephen.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Watched this earlier on the magic lantern in the corner. Espionage story made and set in Berlin in the 60s. More Graham Greene/John leCarre than Ian Fleming. Probably more stylish than the former two though. Sharp suits. Smart, ladies. Cool cars. And some familiar faces as the bad guys. Slightly open ending.
And the cast included the stunning Senta Berger. An Austrian cross between Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Following the horrific 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon, Congress appoints attorney and renowned mediator Kenneth Feinberg (Michael Keaton) to lead the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. Assigned with allocating financial resources to the victims of the tragedy, Feinberg and his firm's head of operations, Camille Biros (Amy Ryan), face the impossible task of determining the worth of a life to help the families who had suffered incalculable losses. When Feinberg locks horns with Charles Wolf (Stanley Tucci), a community organizer mourning the death of his wife, his initial cynicism turns to compassion as he begins to learn the true human costs of the tragedy.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Five years after the end of the Civil War, Capt. Jefferson Kyle Kidd crosses paths with a 10-year-old girl taken by the Kiowa people. Forced to return to her aunt and uncle, Kidd agrees to escort the child across the harsh and unforgiving plains of Texas. However, the long journey soon turns into a fight for survival as the traveling companions encounter danger at every turn -- both human and natural.
Despite its unfortunate title this has an Old school western feel about it and that’s no bad thing in my book.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Five years after the end of the Civil War, Capt. Jefferson Kyle Kidd crosses paths with a 10-year-old girl taken by the Kiowa people. Forced to return to her aunt and uncle, Kidd agrees to escort the child across the harsh and unforgiving plains of Texas. However, the long journey soon turns into a fight for survival as the traveling companions encounter danger at every turn -- both human and natural.
Despite its unfortunate title this has an Old school western feel about it and that’s no bad thing in my book.
Sounds interesting. Must look it up.
I know you cut and pasted the summary and it’s obviously from a Yank site, but I’ve got to object to the use of the definite article before ‘civil war’. It was A civil war not THE civil war. The American Civil War. If you say THE Civil War to me it’s what happened here in the 1640s. 😆
(I am a sad patriotic, history geek.)
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
The Operative. Woman recruited by Israeli intelligence to work in Iran. Not your usual biff bash bosh car chase espionage* film. Lots of trade craft. Understated. Messy real life gets in the way. Very believable. Almost like it’s been written by someone who knows. The ending is open-ended/ambiguous. Just like life. Probably the best espionage film I’ve seen.
* you know it’s a serious film by the use of that word and not ‘spy’ 😎
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Nicholas Cage plays a truffle hunter who lives alone in the woods and has to return to his past in the city when his truffle pig is stolen.
Sounds like it ought to be terrible as most films Cage is in these days are. But it doesn't pan out the way I thought it would and I enjoyed it way more than I thought I would.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
The story of the first 24 hours of 3 women released from Holloway on the same day. Made in 1953. It features a young Joan Collins as tart without a heart. Good acting. Bittersweet. Lots of period character. Post-War London.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Now, facing pressure from all sides of the community, Starr must find her voice and stand up for what's right.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
New Bond film… well most of the budget must of gone into the intro because after that the rest of the film is a total bore-fest! Always appreciated Connery he was a great Bond, but I grew up with Sir Roger Moore and he was the Bond for me, These Bonds enjoyed themselves they we’re exciting to watch someone you would want to be, but not with the latest reincarnation he’s more miserable than an insulate Britain protestor.
I could just about live with a depressed Bond but the storylines are crap and obviously the script has gone totally woke no wonder he’s depressed no more casual one night stands, he’s now got a female sidekick who totally ruins the film think Jar Jar Binks if you’re a Star Wars fan. I’ve now seen all Daniel Craig’s Bond films and apart from the intro to this and Casino Royale I would never want to watch again. When Connery or Moore come on over Xmas I will getting my feet up and that’s the difference.
New Bond film… well most of the budget must of gone into the intro because after that the rest of the film is a total bore-fest! Always appreciated Connery he was a great Bond, but I grew up with Sir Roger Moore and he was the Bond for me, These Bonds enjoyed themselves they we’re exciting to watch someone you would want to be, but not with the latest reincarnation he’s more miserable than an insulate Britain protestor.
I could just about live with a depressed Bond but the storylines are crap and obviously the script has gone totally woke no wonder he’s depressed no more casual one night stands, he’s now got a female sidekick who totally ruins the film think Jar Jar Binks if you’re a Star Wars fan. I’ve now seen all Daniel Craig’s Bond films and apart from the intro to this and Casino Royale I would never want to watch again. When Connery or Moore come on over Xmas I will getting my feet up and that’s the difference.
Will that be to avoid the empties? or by the time they come on, you'll be in a horizontal position already?
You can please some of the forumites some of the time but not all the forumites all of the time
A fictional account of one incredible night where icons Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Sam Cooke, and Jim Brown gathered discussing their roles in the Civil Rights Movement and cultural upheaval of the 60s.
A movie adaptation of a play and it left me wondering how necessary it was and whether it might have been better left. Some great real characters played well and it’s well directed but at times I was slightly bored and restless.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Completely agree with you, Sandford - its absolutely brilliant
... and at the risk of this becoming tedious I agree wholeheartedly with you both. Paddy Considine is just brilliant in this film. It's so rare to see something so simultaneously moving, hilarious, and shocking as this is. And what a treat to have the familiar accents, landscape and humour. A fabulous film.
We are destined to a fool's fate that deserves to be mocked.
James Bond has left active service. His peace is short-lived when Felix Leiter, an old friend from the CIA, turns up asking for help, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology.
I grew up with the wonderfully camp Roger Moore as 007. As a kid the films were a staple at Christmas for me and my Dad or the whole family at any point to be fair. I then lost interest completely until Casino Royale. I’m not trying to justify it to anyone else as we all have our favourites for our own reasons but Craig to me is THE Bond.
Granted some of his films are better than others but this was a fitting finale and I thoroughly enjoyed it and I was both shaken and stirred (apologies 😂).
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Craig is the only possible challenger to Connery in my eyes.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Daniel Craig Bond films elevated Bond films from almost slapstick cliche to genuine box office movies. Granted, the cliche remains and nods to the past are welcome and subtle but the films are on a different level.
From a drama/ script point of view they’re much more intricate and I think that’s why people tend to think of the Bond from their childhood as the ‘best’ but cinematically and story wise, Daniel Craig ones smash it out the park.
For what it’s worth I think the latest should end the franchise. It won’t Becauee there always hype and cash to be made but for me, after seeing No time to die, it’s the end for Bond. Leave it alone now…
'the poor and the needy are selfish and greedy'...well done Mozza
For what it’s worth I think the latest should end the franchise. It won’t Becauee there always hype and cash to be made but for me, after seeing No time to die, it’s the end for Bond. Leave it alone now…
Can't see it Aldi. I've been a huge Bond fan since a child. There is a huge market still that I feel won't won't wane provided the production remains good. To be fair all the Bond films have been decent although some are better than others . I always remember some of the music for the Bond films was good as well notably diamonds are forever and live and let die.
I could just about live with a depressed Bond but the storylines are crap and obviously the script has gone totally woke no wonder he’s depressed no more casual one night stands, he’s now got a female sidekick who totally ruins the film think Jar Jar Binks if you’re a Star Wars fan. I’ve now seen all Daniel Craig’s Bond films and apart from the intro to this and Casino Royale I would never want to watch again. When Connery or Moore come on over Xmas I will getting my feet up and that’s the difference.
Have to go with you on that. Sean Connery and Roger Moore were quality.
JFK Revisited: Through the Looking Glass ( 2021) 9/10
Declassified files related to President Kennedy's assassination in a far larger context, aiming to shine more light on what really happened in 1963.
I’m no conspiracist generally, in fact I probably fall the other way but to me it defies logic to draw any other conclusion around the murder of JFK. This is a detailed and thorough reexamination of that fateful day and I found it engaging, intriguing and very frightening.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Power of Grayskull: The Definitive History of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe ( 2017) 8/10
In the early 1980s He-Man arrived on the scene and hit the world with a punch as powerful as the character himself. Designed in the wake of Conan the barbarian and under the shadow of Star Wars, He-Man's surprising popularity spawned a multi billion dollar empire that included toys, comic books, cartoons, live-action movies and a literal sister spinoff show - She-Ra - and continues to appeal to a ravenous fan-base today. Watch as artists, creators and collaborators dig deep, tell tales and share the surprising developments of an unlikely, unparalleled pop culture success in this Definitive History of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. Do you have the power?
I think anyone could watch this and appreciate it as it’s well made but, if you are a kid growing up in the eighties I think you will love this. The insight behind the scenes is fascinating and it provides a massive slice of nostalgia and a link to your childhood. Who doesn’t want a bit of that!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Lyndon B. Johnson becomes the President of the United States in the chaotic aftermath of John F. Kennedy's assassination, and spends his first year in office fighting to pass the Civil Rights Act.
A really good performance from Bryan Cranston which is hardly surprising but a shout to the supporting cast too.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Blue Story (released 2019) . Been wanting to watch this for a while and its now on netflix. Although a film its based loosely on actual events as seen by the end footage with a mother crying in the cemetery surrounded by flowers after loosing her child to gang violence .
I enjoyed this a lot and it was deeply moving.Shows how anger and hate and need for hierarchy and retribution amongst London gangs just leads to more death and misery for all concerned. I liked how the producers used a rap artist as well, Rapman (Andrew Onwubolu) throughout the film to highlight the narrative .
Just watched a film that could be said to have a related theme Rick. Parasite (Korean film also from 2019. Touches on the unspeakable things that the poor have to do to each other in order to get by. A dark comedy. Very dark. Think it deserved its 4 Oscars. (Amazing that it won’t considering its themes: unless the Academy missed the point).
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Just watched a film that could be said to have a related theme Rick. Parasite (Korean film also from 2019. Touches on the unspeakable things that the poor have to do to each other in order to get by. A dark comedy. Very dark. Think it deserved its 4 Oscars. (Amazing that it won’t considering its themes: unless the Academy missed the point).
Should have been ‘amazing that it won’ rather than ‘amazing it won’t’ 😆
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
The movie is set in medieval France. Jean de Carrouges, a knight, challenges his friend, squire Jacques Le Gris to a lawful duel after Jean's wife, Marguerite, accuses Jacques of raping her. The movie shows the events leading up to the duel from three different truth versions. The truth according to Jean, the truth according to Jacques and the truth according to Lady Marguerite.
I don’t know how faithful to history the movie is but judging it purely as a spectacle I liked it a lot. Driver was his usual good self but I thought Comer excelled. She could be a star!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The movie is set in medieval France. Jean de Carrouges, a knight, challenges his friend, squire Jacques Le Gris to a lawful duel after Jean's wife, Marguerite, accuses Jacques of raping her. The movie shows the events leading up to the duel from three different truth versions. The truth according to Jean, the truth according to Jacques and the truth according to Lady Marguerite.
I don’t know how faithful to history the movie is but judging it purely as a spectacle I liked it a lot. Driver was his usual good self but I thought Comer excelled. She could be a star!
Ridley Scott not happy with the film doing so poorly at the box office. He blames millennials.
Think I will give it a watch as I'm not one of them.
To be fair I think he could be on to something generally with his assertions. It may be too long for some too but, right, wrong or some win between, I really enjoyed it.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
True story of a washed up fighter James Braddock who becomes poverty stricken during the great depression. Through hard work and determination works his way back up the boxing hierarchy to become heavyweight champion of the world.
Heartwarming story that reflects real life. Despite sarcasm and mockery by some of the low life thinking he couldn't fight no more showed where heart and true grit got him.
True story of a washed up fighter James Braddock who becomes poverty stricken during the great depression. Through hard work and determination works his way back up the boxing hierarchy to become heavyweight champion of the world.
Heartwarming story that reflects real life. Despite sarcasm and mockery by some of the low life thinking he couldn't fight no more showed where heart and true grit got him.
Actions always speaks louder than words.
A very good film with some fine performances from a very good cast.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Yes Russell Crowe played the part well . Similar I feel to when he played the leading part in Gladiator(2000) .
Gladiator is one of my all time favourite movies and I’d not like to guess how many times I’ve watched it along with LA Confidential and A Beautiful Mind.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Gladiator is one of my all time favourite movies and I’d not like to guess how many times I’ve watched it along with LA Confidential and A Beautiful Mind.
Give the Equalizer films with Denzel Washington released in 2014 and 2018 a watch if you haven't already. For me with the work I use to do working with disadvantaged youngsters and also through life experiences I have faced these films portrayed on so many levels the fight between good v bad for me with good eventually always coming out on top.
Give the Equalizer films with Denzel Washington released in 2014 and 2018 a watch if you haven't already. For me with the work I use to do working with disadvantaged youngsters and also through life experiences I have faced these films portrayed on so many levels the fight between good v bad for me with good eventually always coming out on top.
I love Denzel and I loved the first film. The second not so much.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
On the Denzel Washington and boxing film front, I watched The Hurricane recently. Decent film loosely based on the true story of a boxer fitted up for a murder he didn't commit as highlighted in the epic Bob Dylan song of the same title.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
On the Denzel Washington and boxing film front, I watched The Hurricane recently. Decent film loosely based on the true story of a boxer fitted up for a murder he didn't commit as highlighted in the epic Bob Dylan song of the same title.
Seen it. Ok I felt .Million Dollar baby (2004) with Clint Eastwood isn't a bad boxing film either .
Last week I watched Dangerous Game starring Calum Best and Darren Day. Best plays a Premier League superstar who ends up in debt to Russian gangsters (boss played by You Bet legend Day). Honestly one of the most extraordinary things I've ever seen.
Seen it. Ok I felt .Million Dollar baby (2004) with Clint Eastwood isn't a bad boxing film either .
I liked The Hurricane too, it’s a good film but I loved Million Dollar Baby and I really like Clint Eastwood full-stop. I’ve watched lots of Boxing films over the years without really thinking I’m a fan of them as such. Journeyman is up there with them all of them though and had me sobbing like a baby at one point. It is not your typical typical boxing film however.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Last week I watched Dangerous Game starring Calum Best and Darren Day. Best plays a Premier League superstar who ends up in debt to Russian gangsters (boss played by You Bet legend Day). Honestly one of the most extraordinary things I've ever seen.
Amazon Prime the home of this quality content.
Did you lose a bet or were you being paid to watch that delight?
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Last week I watched Dangerous Game starring Calum Best and Darren Day. Best plays a Premier League superstar who ends up in debt to Russian gangsters (boss played by You Bet legend Day). Honestly one of the most extraordinary things I've ever seen.
I liked The Hurricane too, it’s a good film but I loved Million Dollar Baby and I really like Clint Eastwood full-stop. I’ve watched lots of Boxing films over the years without really thinking I’m a fan of them as such. .
Best film I have seen to date though is the first Equalizer film with Denzel Washington, Sandford. Really touched a chord with me for so many reasons.
Nice to see you have a lot of love for Denzel. For me as well Denzel Washington is a very good man and actor.
Based on the 14th century allegorical tale of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, but I don’t know how true it was to the book as I haven’t read it. Yet. A Christmas setting, so timely viewing. Christian and pagan themes interwoven. Temptation and all that.
Really atmospheric. Music helped enormously. Mix of contemporary incidental and period music and songs. Great acting. Alicia Vikander very tempting.
Would definitely recommend it to anyone who doesn’t expect a slash em action movie. You might not like it but it might make you think.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Just watched, The Colour Room I think it may be on Sky Cinema
Christ you all wanted him sacked a few months ago. 6th place finish and he's now the messiah and can do no wrong Update: I think I've got this right - He was the messiah. He then wasn't. He then was again. Then it turned out he actually wasnt. He turned into one big huge messiah again. Now he's not actually the messiah we thought he was . Now I'm hoping he rises again quickly
Just watched, The Colour Room I think it may be on Sky Cinema
What's that about nr? Any good?
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
A weird couple set off from the Midlands and head north towing a caravan for a weeks holiday, heading for such tourist spots as the Crich Tramway Museum and the Derwent Pencil Museum among others. Mayhem ensues.
It's a superb British black comedy from Ben Wheatley and no doubt I will watch it again in the future.
A weird couple set off from the Midlands and head north towing a caravan for a weeks holiday, heading for such tourist spots as the Crich Tramway Museum and the Derwent Pencil Museum among others. Mayhem ensues.
It's a superb British black comedy from Ben Wheatley and no doubt I will watch it again in the future.
Great film👍🏻
Have you seen Down Terrace? Free fire?
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Also seen the Kill List. He's a bit hit and miss but always interesting.
Will give Down Terrace a watch.
I will add the caveat that Down Terrace is not for everyone but I really liked it. The Kill List is 75% of a good film that’s let down badly in the final quarter. You make a good point about him being hit and miss.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Four Danish teachers, each of whom seem to have differing issues with growing old decide to lead their lives based on a psychologists theory that people are born with a blood alcohol content deficiency of 0.05% and constantly being at 0.05% makes you more relaxed, creative and generally better as a person. Mixed results ensue.
An excellent film and I was not surprised to learn that an English speaking version is in the pipeline starring Leonardo Di Caprio which will probably be disappointing compared to the original, as is the fashion.
It's a bit late in the day but this is probably my favourite film this year and who knows maybe there is something in the theory of always being mildly intoxicated.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Robbed of his birthright, Arthur comes up the hard way in the back alleys of the city. But once he pulls the sword from the stone, he is forced to acknowledge his true legacy - whether he likes it or not.
How I watched all of this I don’t know, so I suppose it’s my fault but what a load of shiiite!!!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Never reached boiling point for me. Turned off half way through, so half baked.
I watched the entirety of King Arthur Legend of the Sword so there was no danger of me turning it off. Up there with my favourites of the year (boiling point that is).
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Feature adaptation of Frank Herbert's science fiction novel about the son of a noble family entrusted with the protection of the most valuable asset and most vital element in the galaxy.
I had no expectations whatsoever having not read the book or seen the original film but I really enjoyed it. Seems strange to watch a film of two and a half hours and seeing it as a starter but that’s what it felt like. It’s certainly whetted my appetite.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Watched "Don't Look Up" on Netflix this afternoon. Two space scientists realise a massive asteroid is going to destroy the earth in 5 months time, but they can't get anyone to take them seriously. A very clever reflection of the dangers of dumb governments, big tech and a general public more interested in the latest tittle tattle than reality.
Watched "Don't Look Up" on Netflix this afternoon. Two space scientists realise a massive asteroid is going to destroy the earth in 5 months time, but they can't get anyone to take them seriously. A very clever reflection of the dangers of dumb governments, big tech and a general public more interested in the latest tittle tattle than reality.
Yeah, watched it last night. Fairly average as a film but it did raise some interesting points about the way the world seems to be now.
I also re-watched The Big Short and there is a quote in the film which says, truth is like poetry, and most people fu@king hate poetry.
Robbed of his birthright, Arthur comes up the hard way in the back alleys of the city. But once he pulls the sword from the stone, he is forced to acknowledge his true legacy - whether he likes it or not.
How I watched all of this I don’t know, so I suppose it’s my fault but what a load of shiiite!!!
Is that the one where they had Welsh accents? Low budget production.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Is that the one where they had Welsh accents? Low budget production.
No too much money if anything with with the most pointless cameo from David Beckham. The one you mention sounds intriguing though and I bet it’s better than The one I watched.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Reminded me of ‘Sorry we Missed You’ but in a restaurant and does have a feel of Ken Loach about it.
I really love Ken Loach and his raw, powerful if bleak films but for me personally, I found 'Sorry we missed you' too be a bit too 'Ken Loachy'. No doubt it's an important social commentary and well made film but it was relentlessly depressing right upto the final scene with the beaten up main character, probably with internal bleeding driving away from his home despite protests from his family screaming something along the lines of "I've got to go to work, I've got to go to work." It sort of reminded me of the final scene in Texas Chainsaw Massacre with the woman who sort of escapes onto a main road but is screaming, soaked in blood, never to be the same again.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
I really love Ken Loach and his raw, powerful if bleak films but for me personally, I found 'Sorry we missed you' too be a bit too 'Ken Loachy'. No doubt it's an important social commentary and well made film but it was relentlessly depressing right upto the final scene with the beaten up main character, probably with internal bleeding driving away from his home despite protests from his family screaming something along the lines of "I've got to go to work, I've got to go to work." It sort of reminded me of the final scene in Texas Chainsaw Massacre with the woman who sort of escapes onto a main road but is screaming, soaked in blood, never to be the same again.
I take your points entirely and I believe a lot of the time these films are to be endured rather than enjoyed despite them being extremely well made and acted out. I give them high ratings for those very reasons. Bleak and depressing but unfortunately very revealing with some uncomfortable truths for us all.
Boiling Point won’t be for everyone as Ginny illustrates but perhaps my comparison with loach isn’t the best or most encouraging for people to give it a whirl. Perhaps a comment referencing it’s unrelenting one take style would have sufficed.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I take your points entirely and I believe a lot of the time these films are to be endured rather than enjoyed despite them being extremely well made and acted out. I give them high ratings for those very reasons. Bleak and depressing but unfortunately very revealing with some uncomfortable truths for us all.
Boiling Point won’t be for everyone as Ginny illustrates but perhaps my comparison with loach isn’t the best or most encouraging for people to give it a whirl. Perhaps a comment referencing it’s unrelenting one take style would have sufficed.
Was probably due to me being full of cold and not in the right frame of mind. It wasn't terrible and I may go back and watch the rest. Been watching a lot of films because I've been feeling too yucky to do much of anything else and was probably just viewing fatigue.
Was probably due to me being full of cold and not in the right frame of mind. It wasn't terrible and I may go back and watch the rest. Been watching a lot of films because I've been feeling too yucky to do much of anything else and was probably just viewing fatigue.
Stephen Graham is always watchable.
I’m laid low with a chest infection and started on antibiotics and steroids yesterday. I’ve been motoring through films over the last week. Not being able to sleep helps as usual.
I’ve watched some crap I wouldn’t normally want like King Arthur but I’ve rewatched some easy watching stuff. I guess it’s like comfort food.off the top of my head I have done both the Equalizer films, Kick behind 1 and 2, Hot Fuzz, Shaun of the Dead and People Just Do Nothing: Big in Japan. Started the tv series ‘Crime’ and caught up with 2 episodes of Yellowstone which I absolutely love.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A journalist at a minor newspaper, Gary Webb (played by Jeremy Renner), gets a tip-off that a witness at trial of a drug dealer is a government informant, and is importing drugs into the U.S. After much investigation he uncovers evidence that suggests that the CIA are allowing U.S.-backed rebels in Nicaragua to sell large quantities of drugs in the U.S. in exchange for arms. Once he publishes the story, his world is turned upside down.
A film along similar lines to the Report and Official secrets both of which I liked a lot. I really enjoyed this too.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A journalist at a minor newspaper, Gary Webb (played by Jeremy Renner), gets a tip-off that a witness at trial of a drug dealer is a government informant, and is importing drugs into the U.S. After much investigation he uncovers evidence that suggests that the CIA are allowing U.S.-backed rebels in Nicaragua to sell large quantities of drugs in the U.S. in exchange for arms. Once he publishes the story, his world is turned upside down.
A film along similar lines to the Report and Official secrets both of which I liked a lot. I really enjoyed this too.
Yeah I’m ok ta. Hoping the meds will kick in and take effect tomorrow. It’s a minor irritation in the grand scheme of things but I’m taking advantage. Thanks for asking.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Two low-level astronomers must go on a giant media tour to warn mankind of an approaching comet that will destroy planet Earth.
It goes against the grain a little on what’s already been written about this film but I thought it was very good indeed. I really enjoyed the satire and thought it was funny, sad, poignant and scary.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Two low-level astronomers must go on a giant media tour to warn mankind of an approaching comet that will destroy planet Earth.
It goes against the grain a little on what’s already been written about this film but I thought it was very good indeed. I really enjoyed the satire and thought it was funny, sad, poignant and scary.
Bloody hell, you are better than Barry Norman!
"The socialism I believe in is everybody working for the same goal and everybody having a share in the rewards. That’s how I see football, that’s how I see life.” Bill Shankly
Ordinarily I watch a lot of films and TV anyway but I’m motoring through loads at the minute. I copy and paste a synopsis (usually the shortest one) from the the bible that is IMDb.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Ordinarily I watch a lot of films and TV anyway but I’m motoring through loads at the minute. I copy and paste a synopsis (usually the shortest one) from the the bible that is IMDb.
Keep them coming mate. I hope you are on the mend as well.
"The socialism I believe in is everybody working for the same goal and everybody having a share in the rewards. That’s how I see football, that’s how I see life.” Bill Shankly
In a POW camp, the Nazis have placed the huts far from the boundary so that any escape tunnel would have to be a long one. One British officer has the idea of starting a daily gynmastics routine using a vaulting horse: they can place it near the boundary and start a tunnel from under it. He and two others do escape the camp by this means and plan to make for neutral Sweden. To do that, they'll not only have to move around without arousing any suspicions, but also find a stranger from a neutral or occupied country who'll be willing and able to help them.
I remember watching this with my Dad several times when I was a kid. The film is a good one without my nostalgia but that’s just the icing on the cake. I put it on to pass a few minutes and ended up watching it all.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Cracking metaphor for climate change but also touches on big pharma and the way the public just blindly follow whatever they’re told, be it true or not…
'the poor and the needy are selfish and greedy'...well done Mozza
Mohamedou Ould Slahi fights for freedom after being detained and imprisoned without charge by the U.S. Government for years.
An absolutely disgraceful and unfathomable story about the detention, abuse and torture carried out by the US against an innocent man in Guantanamo Bay. A film not for the feint hearted but a must watch in my opinion.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A group of journalists of the Knight-Ridder news service covering President George W. Bush's planned invasion of Iraq in 2003 are skeptical of the President's claim that Saddam Hussein has "weapons of mass destruction."
This story has a really good film in it but unfortunately this isn’t it. It’s not bad don’t get me wrong but it’s too short and shabby to do the events justice despite a decent director and cast.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A female assassin working in Japan on her final job is given a dose of poison and has 24 hrs to find out who did it and take her revenge. Only decided to watch it as it also stars Woody Harrelson who I like in most, but not all of his stuff and it is set in Japan, which is a country that intrigues me. As in most of these films, it involves the Yakuza.
Very formulaic, very violent, very predictable and a tad unbelievable, but well made hokum, which passed a hour and a half. Lot's of action and well staged fight scenes if you like that sort of thing.
Based on the international bestseller by Robert Harris. It is Autumn 1938 and Europe stands on the brink of war. Adolf Hitler is preparing to invade Czechoslovakia and Neville Chamberlain's government desperately seeks a peaceful solution. With the pressure building, Hugh Legat, British civil servant, and Paul von Hartmann, German diplomat, travel to Munich for the emergency Conference. As negotiations begin, the two old friends find themselves at the center of a web of political subterfuge and very real danger.
Forgetting the historical inaccuracies, and from a purely entertaining angle I quite enjoyed this film. Heavy in dialogue it’s not too dissimilar to ‘The Crown’ stylistically. Jeremy Irons is unsurprisingly good as Neville Chamberlain as are the two male leads MacKay and Niewohner.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Absolute shight. Everyone looks too chiselled (look at pictures of men from that era, especially pilots, and they are not hench). There’s none of the discussion of ambiguous sigint and attempts to second guess the opposition. They have a meeting and Admiral Nimitz (Woody Harrelson) stands up and says ‘we’re laying a trap for the Japs’. That’s it. It’s cartoonish. The CGI doesn’t look realistic (I’d rather have the incorrect but real planes from the 1970s version), and the action scenes are no more plausible than the average superhero film. Even the scenes with the actors look a bit cartoonish. A bit like 300. Completely un-engaging. James Holland on his We Have Ways podcast hit the nail on the head, ‘how can you make the Battle of Midway boring? But they managed it.’
(2) Persian Lessons. About a Belgian-Jewish man’s attempt to survive a concentration camp by pretending to be Persian and teach a German officer Farsi. A little bit fantastical but very engaging. It makes some effort to get into the characters of some of the SS, especially the said officer’s background. Not always easy to watch, but two hours flew by. Couple of familiar faces in it. Her from off of Around the World in 80 Days, and him off of Deutschland 83 and 86. Slight historical quibble, and I may be wrong, but an SS woman gets sent to the Eastern Front for crossing an officer. I’m pretty sure the Germans kept their women well away from the war zones. They didn’t mobilise women to the extent Britain and the USSR did. Maybe it was a translation issue and he really just said ‘to the East’ and sent her to work in a camp in Poland.
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
I also watched Midway and thought, when compared to the original (Henry Fonda & all) it was a load of rubbish. The main storyline was missed and the acting was poor at best. Mind you when I see a new adaption of an old film they never seem to improve it.
You can please some of the forumites some of the time but not all the forumites all of the time
In acclaimed director Edgar Wright's psychological thriller, Eloise, an aspiring fashion designer, is mysteriously able to enter the 1960s where she encounters a dazzling wannabe singer, Sandie. But the glamour is not all it appears to be and the dreams of the past start to crack and splinter into something far darker.
I spent the first three quarters of the film trying to figure out just what it was and wondering how much I was enjoying it. This was despite it looking good, the acting being decent, the direction done well and the soundtrack is great. The final quarter tied it all up well and overall I enjoyed it. A horror mystery with a whiff of Stephen King to it.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
In the early years of the 20th century, the Kingsman agency is formed to stand against a cabal plotting a war to wipe out millions.
I really, really enjoyed the first film in the series, thought the second was pretty good too and was looking forward to this origin movie. Overall I was entertained watching it for some escapism but afterwards slightly disappointed. The excellent cast probably saved it but it was overly long and the weakest of the three.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The Congo, 1961. Due to escalating tensions in the area, the UN sends in a company of Irish peacekeepers into the province of Katanga. They are to hold the town of Jadotville at all costs. The local warlord recruits 1,000 French mercenaries, ostensibly to protect the mines in the area. However, after the UN goes on the offensive, the mercenaries are unleashed on the Irish.
I was aware of the film but hadn’t realised it was a true story. I was really impressed with it and was surprised it’s gone under the radar somewhat.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A true David vs. Goliath story of how the 14th century Scottish 'Outlaw King' Robert the Bruce used cunning and bravery to defeat the much larger and better equipped occupying English army.
The filmmakers claim this is an accurate representation of what really took place. I don’t know this to be the case but I’d imagine it’s more accurate than other Hollywood films on a similar subject. Judging this purely as a movie rather than a history lesson I thought it was a gem of a film. Some of the battle scenes were brilliant.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I thought The King's Man was utter tosh. Lost interest in it to the extent I almost didn't bother to watch the finale. My wife fell asleep about an hour from the end and I really can't blame her.
Fiennes a good actor, obviously, but they could have swapped out the lad playing his son with a plank and it wouldn't have made much difference. Arterton still can't act. The previous two films were entertaining due to some silly set pieces but this one didn't have a clue what it was trying to be and it was way too serious for the franchise. Way too long as well. A real shame.
A true David vs. Goliath story of how the 14th century Scottish 'Outlaw King' Robert the Bruce used cunning and bravery to defeat the much larger and better equipped occupying English army.
The filmmakers claim this is an accurate representation of what really took place. I don’t know this to be the case but I’d imagine it’s more accurate than other Hollywood films on a similar subject. Judging this purely as a movie rather than a history lesson I thought it was a gem of a film. Some of the battle scenes were brilliant.
Yeah, it's a good film.
I would also recommend The King on Netflix if you haven't seen it. It's the story of Price Hal, as he's known in Shakespeare plays, who becomes King Henry V, of the Battle of Agincourt fame.
It too has some brilliant and brutal battle scenes.
I would also recommend The King on Netflix if you haven't seen it. It's the story of Price Hal, as he's known in Shakespeare plays, who becomes King Henry V, of the Battle of Agincourt fame.
It too has some brilliant and brutal battle scenes.
I started this yesterday but had to leave it after 30minutes. Going to pick it up again later.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I would also recommend The King on Netflix if you haven't seen it. It's the story of Price Hal, as he's known in Shakespeare plays, who becomes King Henry V, of the Battle of Agincourt fame.
It too has some brilliant and brutal battle scenes.
8/10 I thoroughly enjoyed it. My only minor gripe it is that it at times it is too dimly lit but in the main a very, very good film. The muddy and bloody battle is reminiscent of the battle of the bastardss from GOT.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Set during the start of the troubles in 1969 and filmed in black and white, which gave it a bit more of an authentic feel.
Heard good things about this film and it was generally good, but not as good as I was hoping. Found some of the actors inauthentic and the young lad who was the main character was just a little too wholesome for my liking.
What did appeal was that it reminded me of my childhood, without the sectarian violence of course. A lot of the scenes and references took me back to that time, when I was ten, about the same age as the young lad in the film.
It also has an excellent soundtrack of mainly Van Morrison songs, with a smattering of others that took me back.
Set during the start of the troubles in 1969 and filmed in black and white, which gave it a bit more of an authentic feel.
Heard good things about this film and it was generally good, but not as good as I was hoping. Found some of the actors inauthentic and the young lad who was the main character was just a little too wholesome for my liking.
What did appeal was that it reminded me of my childhood, without the sectarian violence of course. A lot of the scenes and references took me back to that time, when I was ten, about the same age as the young lad in the film.
It also has an excellent soundtrack of mainly Van Morrison songs, with a smattering of others that took me back.
Belfast is one of my favourite films of the last year. I thought the direction was great and the acting was on point too. Though I’d definitely agree with you on the soundtrack-it was bloody brilliant!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Just watched the last episode 6 of 6 of the psychological thriller "Chloe" on BBC One, kept hoping it would get better but what a waste of six hours of my life.
When Leeds trainer Les Cocker was once told Norman Hunter had broken a leg, he asked: “Whose is it?”
Earth's future has been riddled by disasters, famines, and droughts. There is only one way to ensure mankind's survival: Interstellar travel. A newly discovered wormhole in the far reaches of our solar system allows a team of astronauts to go where no man has gone before, a planet that may have the right environment to sustain human life.
Christopher Nolan doesn’t make bad films in my opinion and In fact, more than that he makes brilliant films. I’d avoided this one for it’s subject matter but decided to take the plunge after watching the series ‘Cosmos’. I’m really glad I did and wish I had done sooner. Did I understand every small detail?No! Did it matter or lessen the enjoyment or impact of the film? Not a bit! There were 2 bits that absolutely killed me too. I wasn’t expecting it to be emotional. It was. Great film.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Set in the dark underbelly of Silicon Valley, The Social Dilemma fuses investigative documentary with enlightening narrative drama. Expert testimony from tech whistle-blowers exposes our disturbing predicament: the services Big Tech provides-search engines, networks, instant information, etc.-are merely the candy that lures us to bite. Once we're hooked and coming back for more, the real commodity they sell is their prowess to influence and manipulate us.
I’m not on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and as such perhaps I’m naive to a lot of the subject matter covered in this documentary. However that said I found it very interesting and frightening in equal measure. I’d liken it to a magician exposing the method behind his trickery but with a dark side.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Ben Cash, his wife Leslie and their six children live in the Washington wilderness. Ben and Leslie are former anarchist activists disillusioned with capitalism and American life, and chose to instill survivalist skills, left wing politics, and philosophy in their children - educating them to think critically, training them to be self-reliant, physically fit and athletic, guiding them without technology, demonstrating the beauty of coexisting with nature and celebrating Noam Chomsky's birthday instead of Christmas..
This was quirky and offbeat with some really good performances. It managed to avoid some of the cliches you may expect from this kind of caper but it was as mad as a box of frogs too but with the universal theme of love and family shining through.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Ben Cash, his wife Leslie and their six children live in the Washington wilderness. Ben and Leslie are former anarchist activists disillusioned with capitalism and American life, and chose to instill survivalist skills, left wing politics, and philosophy in their children - educating them to think critically, training them to be self-reliant, physically fit and athletic, guiding them without technology, demonstrating the beauty of coexisting with nature and celebrating Noam Chomsky's birthday instead of Christmas..
This was quirky and offbeat with some really good performances. It managed to avoid some of the cliches you may expect from this kind of caper but it was as mad as a box of frogs too but with the universal theme of love and family shining through.
Great film this. I went to see this on a whim at the cinema when it came out a few years ago as I had a few hours to kill and it's probably my favourite film of recent times. There are very few films that I go out of my way to rewatch but I've seen this a few times now and still love it.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Great film this. I went to see this on a whim at the cinema when it came out a few years ago as I had a few hours to kill and it's probably my favourite film of recent times. There are very few films that I go out of my way to rewatch but I've seen this a few times now and still love it.
I love it when you discover a film by chance or circumstance. There is definitely a lot to admire about it. I really like Vigo Mortensen anyway but George Mackay is good too. I love the idea of their lifestyle-Something very appealing and intoxicating about it. There’s a very good humour to it that I really enjoyed also.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Through the door there came familiar laughter, I saw your face and heard you call my name. Oh my friend we're older but no wiser, For in our hearts the dreams are still the same.
Ben Cash, his wife Leslie and their six children live in the Washington wilderness. Ben and Leslie are former anarchist activists disillusioned with capitalism and American life, and chose to instill survivalist skills, left wing politics, and philosophy in their children - educating them to think critically, training them to be self-reliant, physically fit and athletic, guiding them without technology, demonstrating the beauty of coexisting with nature and celebrating Noam Chomsky's birthday instead of Christmas..
This was quirky and offbeat with some really good performances. It managed to avoid some of the cliches you may expect from this kind of caper but it was as mad as a box of frogs too but with the universal theme of love and family shining through.
I started to watch this film but stopped after about 30 mins and can't remember why. It was a couple of years back and I had completely forgotten about it until I read this post.
Don't think I stopped because I wasn't enjoying it, more that something came up I had to attend to, so I will revisit it as I like these types of film. Sometimes think about going to live somewhere remote myself.
I started to watch this film but stopped after about 30 mins and can't remember why. It was a couple of years back and I had completely forgotten about it until I read this post.
Don't think I stopped because I wasn't enjoying it, more that something came up I had to attend to, so I will revisit it as I like these types of film. Sometimes think about going to live somewhere remote myself.
The older I get and the direction in which I see ‘society’ is heading, the more appealing living off grid or even on another planet becomes!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Based on the best-selling pair of memoirs from father and son David and Nic Sheff, Beautiful Boy chronicles the heartbreaking and inspiring experience of survival, relapse and recovery in a family coping with addiction over many years.
Sensitively done but unflinching at the same time. There are genuinely touching moments along with some that are properly saddening but in a really authentic way. Carell turns in a top rate performance but that is no surprise. I’d challenge any parent to watch him and not feel his pain.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
From visionary director Robert Eggers comes The Northman, an action-filled epic that follows a young Viking prince on his quest to avenge his father's murder.
Has a touch of vikings which is to be expected and also Valhalla Rising. I thought it was overly long and a bit too ‘arthousey’ although I understand the mythology and otherworldly elements of it. The film is well made but ultimately left me feeling cold and underwhelmed.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
When a sadistic serial killer begins murdering key political figures in Gotham, Batman is forced to investigate the city's hidden corruption and question his family's involvement.
A touch under 3 hours but it didn’t feel that long watching it. I was slightly dubious about Pattinson but after initially jarring a little, by about half way through I’d forgotten my minor gripe. I think he actually does a pretty good job but the star of the show is Paul Dano who manages to do creepy and unhinged very well (again). Overall I really enjoyed it.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
During WWII, two intelligence officers use a corpse and false papers to outwit German troops.
A remarkable true story that beggars belief with how much planning and detail went in to making this fanciful idea a workable reality. A very strong and mainly British cast do a great job for my money and judging this on purely entertainment value I really enjoyed it and to my surprise so did my better half. I’m sure some will argue that some of the sub plots were not necessary but I quite enjoyed them overall.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
During WWII, two intelligence officers use a corpse and false papers to outwit German troops.
A remarkable true story that beggars belief with how much planning and detail went in to making this fanciful idea a workable reality. A very strong and mainly British cast do a great job for my money and judging this on purely entertainment value I really enjoyed it and to my surprise so did my better half. I’m sure some will argue that some of the sub plots were not necessary but I quite enjoyed them overall.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
In 1980 New York, three young men who were all adopted meet each other and find out they're triplets who were separated at birth. But their quest to find out why turns into a bizarre and sinister mystery.
A really good watch that made me feel similar to when I watched the original Catfish documentary and The Imposter (both brilliant by the way). Both intriguing and disturbing but it left me eager for more.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The new jurrasic Park... 3/10. Awful considering how good the previous few are.
That’s a shame!
We’ve just started the series with our 2 kids and we’re due to watch the second tonight. I’d forgotten just how good the first film was. I can remember being blown away by the special effects as a kid, in the cinema. To be fair they would have been groundbreaking then but, still look good today considering the riches we are spoilt with now.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
We’ve just started the series with our 2 kids and we’re due to watch the second tonight. I’d forgotten just how good the first film was. I can remember being blown away by the special effects as a kid, in the cinema. To be fair they would have been groundbreaking then but, still look good today considering the riches we are spoilt with now.
Id give the first one 8/10 an the last two previous to this new one 9/10. So keep going, my son loved the latest one. I just felt it lacked enough dinosaur action bizarelly
Id give the first one 8/10 an the last two previous to this new one 9/10. So keep going, my son loved the latest one. I just felt it lacked enough dinosaur action bizarelly
I’ve seen them all barring Dominion and I enjoy them for what I see them as, which is turn your mind off popcorn entertainment.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
An urban thriller set in West London starring Paddy Considine and rising star Aiysha Hart. Mona is a young British Muslim girl on the on the run from her family after they find out about her plans to run away with her Punjabi boyfriend. In a desperate bid to save face and their family honour; her mother and older brother enlist the help of a bounty hunter to track her down.
I watched this just to halt the constant flicking through the different options on the various platforms I’ve got access to. The Mrs is ill in bed with covid again so I had only myself to please and plumped for it because of Paddy Considine. Some decent performances and 75% of an entertaining enough film that is let down by the final act.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Quite enjoyed this. I note from further reading it attained quite a big fan base as well. Although mostly fictionalised albeit with some parts true it's about 300 Spartans who face insurmountable odds but keep battling to the bitter end.
The Forgiven takes place over a weekend in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco, and explores the reverberations of a random accident on the lives of both the local Muslims, and Western visitors to a house party in a grand villa.
I watched this purely on the basis of Fiennes and Chastain. They were supported by a really good cast. I like the director John Michael McDonagh too and I watched the whole thing. However, I still don’t know if I liked it or not. The characters by design aren’t likeable and the pay off not nearly big enough for enduring them. I guess it’s what I would call a grown up film but it could have been so much better in my humble opinion.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
When the CIA's most skilled operative-whose true identity is known to none-accidentally uncovers dark agency secrets, a psychopathic former colleague puts a bounty on his head, setting off a global manhunt by international assassins.
I watched this at silly o’clock this morning. You’ve Seen it all before, it’s needlessly long and it’s utter bulllshit but it’s ‘turn your mind off’ entertaining.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The story of male private Cheney, an unassuming bureaucratic Washington insider, who quietly wielded immense power as Vice President to George W. Bush, reshaping the country and the globe in ways that we still feel today.
Darkly comic in places and yet totally disturbing, shocking and bewildering too. It’s often said we get the governments and elected officials we deserve and this is a great example. Adams and Bale performed as you’d expect but they deserve a mention nonetheless. An excellent film’
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A modern-day musical about a busker and an immigrant and their eventful week in Dublin, as they write, rehearse and record songs that tell their love stories.
This is a low budget, quirky, charming and sentimental love story that won’t be to everyone’s tastes but I found it to be brilliant. It took me 10minutes to acclimatise to it and perhaps it shouldn’t work but for me it totally does and the soundtrack is amazing. I’m a hopeless romantic fool which perhaps helps. I’d imagine your feelings about Sing Street and Begin Again will be a good indicator of whether to bother with this film or not. I loved those and this!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Watched life of Brian with the kids and they loved it. Even though it’s set 2000 years ago in a seemingly primitive time, it’s a time that I’m now beginning recognise as the new normal.
Watched life of Brian with the kids and they loved it. Even though it’s set 2000 years ago in a seemingly primitive time, it’s a time that I’m now beginning recognise as the new normal.
From now on I want you all to call me Loretta🤣
It was actually far ahead of its time lol. My daughter had a 'roman day' at school recently where they got some legionary re-enactment types in and all dressed up. She refused to take in a Romanes Eunt Domus banner though .....
Washed up hippy detective with a past (not green street, sons of anarchy etc, the 'characters' past) gets involved in a Hollywood murder. Decent entertainment, actual plot twists, and Mel Gibson has his first role for 20 years that I actually thought he acted well. Don't break the bank for it folks, but worth breaking out the popcorn if you have nothing else on.
Northern India, 1986. Guddu and his younger brother Saroo help out their impoverished family by scavenging anything they can. One night Guddu and Saroo are separated at a train station. Saroo tries to find Guddu but ends up on a train that takes him to Calcutta, 1,600 kms away. In Calcutta he is taken in by a organisation that finds adoptive parents for orphans and lost kids. Saroo is adopted by an Australian couple, the Brierleys, and moves to Hobart, Tasmania. 20 years later he decides to find his mother and brother.
For reasons beyond me this has sat on my hard drive since a screener came out for it when it was in its pre release.
The kids and the better half are away and so I plumped for it after all this time. I thought it was a brilliant bit of filmmaking-everything is ‘on point’ and the performances are great.
It may be a bit lazy of me but there are shades of Slumdog Millionaire and Life of Pi to the film which is some company to keep.
If you haven’t seen it I’d recommend doing so.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Markus, a deployed military man, has to go home to his teenage daughter, Mathilde, when his wife dies in a tragic train accident. It seems to be plain bad luck - but it turns out that it might have been a carefully orchestrated assassination, which his wife ended up being a random casualty of.
There is to be an English remake of this Danish film but I would watch it anyway as reading subtitles didn’t distract me from the enjoyment of the film. It’s an odd mix of action, drama and dark comedy that would fail in the wrong hands. Thankfully the writer and director pulled it off and as always. Mads Mikkelsen is great in it but is supported by a really good cast.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Four Danish teachers, each of whom seem to have differing issues with growing old decide to lead their lives based on a psychologists theory that people are born with a blood alcohol content deficiency of 0.05% and constantly being at 0.05% makes you more relaxed, creative and generally better as a person. Mixed results ensue.
An excellent film and I was not surprised to learn that an English speaking version is in the pipeline starring Leonardo Di Caprio which will probably be disappointing compared to the original, as is the fashion.
It's a bit late in the day but this is probably my favourite film this year and who knows maybe there is something in the theory of always being mildly intoxicated.
Another round 9/10
I finally got round to this, after watching Riders of Justice. I thoroughly enjoyed it and like with Riders of Justice I shall look forward to the English language remake. It will be a tough challenge to live up to both the originals however.
A great cast take us on a journey of experimentation based upon a theory (This is not a real theory, but a misinterpreted preface written by Finn Skårderud for another project) study) of alcohol consumption making us ‘better’!
What occurs after the experiment starts is funny, engaging and unexpectedly touching too. It’s so well done you forget you’re reading subtitles. A brilliant film!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Nelson Mandela, in his first term as President of South Africa, initiates a unique venture to unite the Apartheid-torn land: enlist the national rugby team on a mission to win the 1995 Rugby World Cup.
Unapologetically sentimental and entirely predictable but an uplifting and inspiring film nonetheless. Clint Eastwood really is a master of his art.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Blue Story (released 2019) . Been wanting to watch this for a while and its now on netflix. Although a film its based loosely on actual events as seen by the end footage with a mother crying in the cemetery surrounded by flowers after loosing her child to gang violence .
I enjoyed this a lot and it was deeply moving.Shows how anger and hate and need for hierarchy and retribution amongst London gangs just leads to more death and misery for all concerned. I liked how the producers used a rap artist as well, Rapman (Andrew Onwubolu) throughout the film to highlight the narrative .
7 out of 10.
Blue Story 8/10
There is nothing particularly new about this film as the story is a path well-trodden but, it’s done so well and I think it’s an excellent film. I too liked the use of the rapper to move along the narrative and I thought it was a nice touch. I rate the series Topboy really highly and this film could easily be another chapter of it.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A modern-day musical about a busker and an immigrant and their eventful week in Dublin, as they write, rehearse and record songs that tell their love stories.
This is a low budget, quirky, charming and sentimental love story that won’t be to everyone’s tastes but I found it to be brilliant. It took me 10minutes to acclimatise to it and perhaps it shouldn’t work but for me it totally does and the soundtrack is amazing. I’m a hopeless romantic fool which perhaps helps. I’d imagine your feelings about Sing Street and Begin Again will be a good indicator of whether to bother with this film or not. I loved those and this!
Spot on with this. It's been a favourite of mine for ages but most people I recommend it to aren't as positive, the wife just thought it was boring. It's just so natural and simple and if you can get caught up in the feeling of it all it proper sucks you in, once the music shop scene happened early on I was totally smitten. Lost track how many times I've watched this bit on YouTube.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
There is nothing particularly new about this film as the story is a path well-trodden but, it’s done so well and I think it’s an excellent film. I too liked the use of the rapper to move along the narrative and I thought it was a nice touch. I rate the series Topboy really highly and this film could easily be another chapter of it.
Yes seen Top boy Sandford and really like it. Ive been a London boy as well all my life so I could identify with the characters in the series . Having said that I don't like drugs and never have done and also feel for genuine metropolitan police officers ( a gripe with the show though is wish they could put a more positive slant on police and not just be bothered about ratings). Especially have a lot of respect and admiration for genuine black police officers who are trying to do a honest job in the metropolitan police in what can be very trying circumstances . Not all black people like white people who come from very disadvantaged backgrounds are against the police in London. I remember being stopped and searched by a black policeman and he was genuinely good in the way he spoke to me. In order for relations to improve between police and public I feel we need more police who have a desire to do good and as one or two have said previously it goes beyond the money but a deep desire to help the community and others.
After more than thirty years of service as one of the Navy's top aviators, Pete Mitchell is where he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and dodging the advancement in rank that would ground him.
Firstly I’m unashamedly owning the high mark I have given this film. I really, really enjoyed it and I’m not apologising for it (though I feel I perhaps should😊). This is a love letter to the first film and more widely the 80’s, there’s the intoxicating mix of new and old, nostalgia aplenty and a soundtrack to match. Is it cheesy and sentimental? Yes! Is it cliched and linked to the first? Yup! Is it entertaining? Absolutely! I had to be careful not take my fingers off off while chomping on the popcorn staring at the screen.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
After more than thirty years of service as one of the Navy's top aviators, Pete Mitchell is where he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and dodging the advancement in rank that would ground him.
Firstly I’m unashamedly owning the high mark I have given this film. I really, really enjoyed it and I’m not apologising for it (though I feel I perhaps should😊). This is a love letter to the first film and more widely the 80’s, there’s the intoxicating mix of new and old, nostalgia aplenty and a soundtrack to match. Is it cheesy and sentimental? Yes! Is it cliched and linked to the first? Yup! Is it entertaining? Absolutely! I had to be careful not take my fingers off off while chomping on the popcorn staring at the screen.
Got to agree. Was pleasantly surprised. Had my eye on a two hour nap but really enjoyed it!
"The socialism I believe in is everybody working for the same goal and everybody having a share in the rewards. That’s how I see football, that’s how I see life.” Bill Shankly
A portrait of the "world's greatest living explorer" Sir Ranulph Fiennes, a film that goes beyond the record breaking achievements to explore the man behind the myth.
I absolutely loved this and would recommend watching this to anyone who has even the slightest interest in the man. Often touching and insightful it gives a view of the man behind the legend. Privileged, fiercely driven, contradictory, pragmatic, loving, loyal and eccentric can all be justifiably used to describe Ran Fiennes.
2 quotes sum it up for me “in the context of the modern world he’s not normal!” And “he’s absolutely fearless-brave but he’s a bloody idiot!”. member on!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
In 1985, against the backdrop of Thatcherism, Brian Jackson enrolls in the University of Bristol, a scholarship boy from seaside Essex with a love of knowledge for its own sake and a childhood spent watching "University Challenge," a college quiz show. At Bristol he tries out for the Challenge team and falls under the spell of Alice, a lovely blond with an extensive sexual past. He's smitten, and he carelessly manages to hurt the feelings of Rebecca Epstein, a friend whose politics and wit he admires. The Challenge finale is coming up; maybe Brian can redeem himself and still avoid being a prat.
Is this the greatest film you’re ever likely to see? Absolutely not but it’s very entertaining nonetheless and I’m glad I gave it my time. I really like James McAvoy and he’s backed up by a great assemble cast in this film and overall I enjoyed it.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I was a film nerd even as a kid and would Hoover up anything I could get my hands on. Back then of course it was the magic of the video shop and it was magic too.
Saturday was wrestling at my Nanas (not wrestling her-she’d have kicked my backside) then tea time it was Airwolf, The A-team and Knight Rider (amongst others) along with the classified results on the radio.
I remember waiting for my dad to finish work to sit and watch/ listen to it all with me and then our trip ‘round the corner’ to the video shop. We’d spend ages in there while I picked up every case to read the blurb. I was like a kid in a sweet shop and although times move on, I miss that process and tradition.
When I was younger it was sixhills video store and the one on Farebrother Street and they both had that mystique to them. I’m smiling to myself as I write this as I recall the fines for not rewinding the cassettes or waiting for what seemed like years to get a copy of Masters of the Universe. Happy Days! .
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I was a film nerd even as a kid and would Hoover up anything I could get my hands on. Back then of course it was the magic of the video shop and it was magic too.
Saturday was wrestling at my Nanas (not wrestling her-she’d have kicked my backside) then tea time it was Airwolf, The A-team and Knight Rider (amongst others) along with the classified results on the radio.
When I was younger it was sixhills video store and the one on Farebrother Street and they both had that mystique to them. I’m smiling to myself as I write this as I recall the fines for not rewinding the cassettes or waiting for what seemed like years to get a copy of Masters of the Universe. Happy Days! .
Funnily enough I love the A team and Knight Rider(love that theme tune and introduction at the start) and will now and again watch a rerun.
How times have changed though . Now its all mostly online streaming. I can understand though what your saying about nostalgia. I can relate to that as well. I remember being at primary school and there was some really happy times there .I think its the innocence of childhood before the reality of life kicks in later on.
Got to say I love the new technology though especially Netflix.
One of my favourite films. About following your dreams despite the ridicule and criticism by some.
Heartwarming story .
8.5/10
That was one of those I wouldn't choose to watch, but stumbled into when randomly channel hopping, and actually really enjoyed.
The Dish was another one. A film about the true story of the NASA radio dish in Australia ,and used during the moon landings should be as dull as dish water, but is surprisingly good.
The Dish was another one. A film about the true story of the NASA radio dish in Australia ,and used during the moon landings should be as dull as dish water, but is surprisingly good.
Can't say I've heard of it but thanks for the recommendation
Follows a young graffiti artist who discovers a shocking secret that would put him and the ones closest to him in danger.
After spending way too long searching for the perfect watch we decided to just put something on and chose this. Firstly it is a good cast, it looks good and the concept is perfectly fine. I watched the whole thing without coming close to turning it off. However, it is very cliched and nothing you haven’t seen before. My advice is to avoid it, because at a touch under 2 hours there are way betters things you could be watching instead.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
3 is being generous too, 2 points awarded for the stunning scenery and one for Seth Greens' acting in the first half of the film. Overall though, this feels like Seth Green was handed a film budget to blow on something with no oversight whatsoever and randomly hired some mates for a jaunt around asia.. Randy Orton I have no idea why his character exists in this film aside from to get a star name on the posters, and Macauley Culkin looks like he needs help not an acting job. The advert looked like a kind of hangover-style film, but had neither the laughs, characters or plot to emulate it.
The premise is a good one - Seth Greens' character has caught his wife cheating and so sets off on the surprise anniversary holiday he's booked in Thailand with his mate (Breckin Meyer) instead. Only....he hasn't told his wife that this is the case. After meeting his carefree friend and some initial misunderstandings at the hotel - where they aren't convinced the wife exists- they set out on boat tours of the stunning Thai wilderness.
After that it goes downhill rapidly, and I kept watching out of a belief that there must be a point to it all. Much like my ex-wife though, I was left unfulfilled as we close to credits with him calling his cheating missus after avoiding her calls all week but not hearing any of the conversation or getting to find out what decision his voyage of discovery led him to make.
Avoid unless it's free. Then still probably avoid, tbh
Five assassins aboard a swiftly-moving bullet train to find out that their missions have something in common.
There’s more than a touch of Tarantino in this film and there is no doubt that Brad Pitt carries it somewhat but the supporting cast definitely play their parts as well. There is plenty of violence, great set piece action sequences and humour too. If you don’t take it too seriously this is definitely worth a Friday evening with a take away. A good bit of fun.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Yes seen Top boy Sandford and really like it. Ive been a London boy as well all my life so I could identify with the characters in the series . Having said that I don't like drugs and never have done and also feel for genuine metropolitan police officers ( a gripe with the show though is wish they could put a more positive slant on police and not just be bothered about ratings). Especially have a lot of respect and admiration for genuine black police officers who are trying to do a honest job in the metropolitan police in what can be very trying circumstances . Not all black people like white people who come from very disadvantaged backgrounds are against the police in London. I remember being stopped and searched by a black policeman and he was genuinely good in the way he spoke to me. In order for relations to improve between police and public I feel we need more police who have a desire to do good and as one or two have said previously it goes beyond the money but a deep desire to help the community and others.
I enjoyed that too - though not the content obviously. It's gritty.
Saw this on netflix and very thought provoking. About the covid crisis and how a care home really struggled to cope with staff absences and not enough equipment being supplied. All based on what happened.
Revolutionary businessmen Bernard Garrett (Anthony Mackie) and Joe Morris (Samuel L. Jackson) devise an audacious and risky plan to take on the racist establishment of the 1960s by helping other African Americans pursue the American dream. Along with Garrett's wife Eunice (Nia Long), they train a working class white man, Matt Steiner (Nicholas Hoult), to pose as the rich and privileged face of their burgeoning real estate and banking empire - while Garrett and Morris pose as a janitor and a chauffeur. Their success ultimately draws the attention of the federal government, which threatens everything the four have built.
Based around a true story which is pretty extraordinary in fairness. This was both enjoyable snd surprising. Another film that I didn’t get round to watching when it was released but I’m very glad I’ve caught up now.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A 14-year-old boy is groomed into a lethal nation-wide drug-selling enterprise which exploits vulnerable children and traffics them across Britain.
This film was made with next to no money in a broad sense but the results far outweigh its budget. This is a warts and all portrayal of a shameful and grubby business and after watching it I felt I needed a shower. It gets under your skin and the mother and son’s performances are in particular are really good.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A man's story of leaving New York in 1967 to bring beer to his childhood buddies in the Army while they are fighting in Vietnam.
Another film based on a book about a surreal true story. I had seen the trailer a while ago and was eagerly looking forward to watching this. In general I was not disappointed and I enjoyed the film for what it was. I certainly enjoyed it more than the critics did and I don’t really agree with their negativity around it. It’s a bit preachy in places but I didn’t mind that and I thought that Efron as the lead was pretty solid throughout. There’s a good bit of humour and it doesn’t flinch from the ugliness of war either. Russell Crowe is not in it nearly enough however and when he is he adds his usual gravitas with seemingly little effort.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A 14-year-old boy is groomed into a lethal nation-wide drug-selling enterprise which exploits vulnerable children and traffics them across Britain.
This film was made with next to no money in a broad sense but the results far outweigh its budget. This is a warts and all portrayal of a shameful and grubby business and after watching it I felt I needed a shower. It gets under your skin and the mother and sons performances are in particular are really good.
Read about this on a deeper level. True to life as well. Will try to give this one a watch.
Two young women climb a 2000 ft communications tower for Instagram photos and to release the ashes of one of thems recently departed climber husband, but things go wrong. Fantastic CGI effects and a surprisingly tense storyline.
And when you fall back into the mud it hurts a lot. No! None of it was true, none of those things we thought we could see existed at all. All that was really there was still more misery
Based upon the true story of London playwright and actor Alan Bennett's (Alex Jennings') unusual multi-year relationship with an eccentric elderly, homeless woman he knew as Miss Mary Shepherd (Dame Maggie Smith) in the 1970s before allowing her to park her van in the driveway of his home. She stayed there for fifteen years. Miss Shepherd was, in fact, Margaret Fairchild, former pupil of pianist Alfred Cortot. She played Chopin in a concert, and after she tried to become a nun, was institutionalized by her brother. Living in fear of being caught and sent back, she had an accident when her van was hit by a motorcyclist for which she believed herself to blame, and thereafter was also fearful of arrest.
An absolute delight! Alex Jennings and Maggie Smith put in great performances. This is a very good film and a story brilliantly told. This is perfect for a rainy Sunday evening after a roast dinner.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Absolutely bonkers film which trapeze's the genres about a Chinese Laundry being audited by the IRS during which the main character discovers she must connect to parallel universe versions of herself to stop the destruction of the universe and to sort out their tax returns.
I really enjoyed this, with the parallel universe stuff it's occasionally a bit hard going to understand but it's also very light hearted so not really hardcore sci-fi or owt. If you just go with it and get taken along for the ride then things get tied up nicely. I wouldn't be surprised to see this winning a fair few awards. 9/10
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Fascinating true story about the Nazi's and stolen art, centering around a Dutch artist who was arrested after the war for his part in selling Dutch masters to Herman Goering and becoming fabulously wealthy into the bargain. Only there is a twist in the story.
Some of the acting I found a bit wooden except for Guy Pearce, who steals the film as the main character Han van Meegeren.
Very realistic depiction of the 1st world war seen through the eyes of a young conscript in the German army.
Well directed and grabbed me from the outset.
Heard lots about it, finally saw it and was a little disappointed to be honest. Having read and re-read Remarques book and watched and re-watched the original 1930 film, I felt that this version missed out or shortened major parts and then tried to compress the majority of the storyline into the last two weeks of the war and changed the finale. I will agree it was brilliantly filmed, however I can't attest to it being a realistic depiction of WWI who could as I don't think anyone could really depict the living hell that was the Great War.
And when you fall back into the mud it hurts a lot. No! None of it was true, none of those things we thought we could see existed at all. All that was really there was still more misery
. I will agree it was brilliantly filmed, however I can't attest to it being a realistic depiction of WWI who could as I don't think anyone could really depict the living hell that was the Great War.
In fairness I don't think no film can accurately portray the horrendous suffering the soldiers and even civilians must of gone through during the 2 world wars .
Another film that grabbed me which I thought conveyed to some extent what the Jews must of gone through during the l930s to the mid 1940s is the pianist released in 2002. Some of the scenes in it and I saw this like 10 years ago now made me that hungry that I had to grab a bit of bread, ate it and greatly appreciated it.
In the 1930s, three friends witness a murder, are framed for it, and uncover one of the most outrageous plots in American history.
I honestly cannot work out if I liked or enjoyed this film and I had real trouble giving it a mark. It looks good, has a great cast and there is acting to be admired. The dynamic between Washington, Bale and Robbie is excellent and the thread of a true story is an extraordinary one. However, it’s as mad as a box of frogs!! At times it’s oddity and quirky nature was distracting and it’s pace uneven to say the least. At times it got on my nerves and it felt a tad long unsurprisingly. It had a feel of a Wes Anderson film but perhaps lacking the same charm…for me anyway. A strange film.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Really enjoyed this and surprised I missed it when released some years ago as it's the kind of film I like.
The story of a guy who has split with his girlfriend and is working in and living above his dad's hoover repair shop in Dublin. He is an aspiring singer/songwriter and spends time busking in the centre of town, where he meets a Czech migrant flower seller, who is also a musician and songwriter. They become friends and start to perform and write songs together. She tells him how talented he is and talks him into getting together a band and hiring a studio to make a demo.
The original songs in the film are really very good and above the usual standard you get in these kinds of films, and the actors look very convincing in their roles and never give the impression of actors playing the part of singers and musicians.
There is a good reason for this as I later found out when I looked up the soundtrack. The two main actors are in fact real life singers and musicians Glen Hansard and Margeta Irglova who have written and performed together as The Swell Season, and they wrote and performed all the songs for the film. Hansard also fronts Irish band The Frames, who are a big deal in Ireland despite me never hearing of them.
This eventually led me to Youtube where I was surprised to find Hansard performing on stage with the likes of Eddie Vedder and Bruce Springsteen. He is a lot bigger than I was expecting, which surprised me as I know and like a lot of Irish bands and music.
Good film which is in turns funny, engaging and warm, with good music and I discovered a new artist to boot.
Really enjoyed this and surprised I missed it when released some years ago as it's the kind of film I like.
The story of a guy who has split with his girlfriend and is working in and living above his dad's hoover repair shop in Dublin. He is an aspiring singer/songwriter and spends time busking in the centre of town, where he meets a Czech migrant flower seller, who is also a musician and songwriter. They become friends and start to perform and write songs together. She tells him how talented he is and talks him into getting together a band and hiring a studio to make a demo.
The original songs in the film are really very good and above the usual standard you get in these kinds of films, and the actors look very convincing in their roles and never give the impression of actors playing the part of singers and musicians.
There is a good reason for this as I later found out when I looked up the soundtrack. The two main actors are in fact real life singers and musicians Glen Hansard and Margeta Irglova who have written and performed together as The Swell Season, and they wrote and performed all the songs for the film. Hansard also fronts Irish band The Frames, who are a big deal in Ireland despite me never hearing of them.
This eventually led me to Youtube where I was surprised to find Hansard performing on stage with the likes of Eddie Vedder and Bruce Springsteen. He is a lot bigger than I was expecting, which surprised me as I know and like a lot of Irish bands and music.
Good film which is in turns funny, engaging and warm, with good music and I discovered a new artist to boot.
I reviewed this gem earlier in the thread and I think Manchester Mariner was as equally impressed as me n thee with it! I’d love for more people to give it a whirl!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I reviewed this gem earlier in the thread and I think Manchester Mariner was as equally impressed as me n thee with it! I’d love for more people to give it a whirl!
I do love Once but I can sort of appreciate it won't be for everyone. I watched it again with my wife recently and she thought it was "a bit twee like some of those bed wetting indie bands wearing cardigans that you like."
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
I do love Once but I can sort of appreciate it won't be for everyone. I watched it again with my wife recently and she thought it was "a bit twee like some of those bed wetting indie bands wearing cardigans that you like."
I mean clearly what your other half lacks in film taste (albeit I’ve have a grand total of 1 film to make that generalisation) she more than makes up for it in acerbic wit! That put down is tremendous!! 😂
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I thought All quiet on the Western front was very good. I’ve read the book and understandably so, they’ve left bits out etc as is always the case but it does at least try to show the brutality and sheer idiocy of generals.
I’m well aware nothing could really show that, not properly but at least they try and don’t shy away.
'the poor and the needy are selfish and greedy'...well done Mozza
I thought All quiet on the Western front was very good. I’ve read the book and understandably so, they’ve left bits out etc as is always the case but it does at least try to show the brutality and sheer idiocy of generals.
I’m well aware nothing could really show that, not properly but at least they try and don’t shy away.
If you ever get the chance if you haven't already go to the Imperial War museum in London. Very good museum I feel that highlights what went on in both world wars and others including Afghanistan . Opens your eyes more to the suffering and sacrifice the military have experienced and the conflicts humans create. I know in the past they have put on the trench experience for the public where they try to depict what was life like in the trenches in world war 2 I think it was.
In Washington, D.C., a reporter faces a possible jail sentence for outing a CIA agent and refusing to reveal her source.
This film passed me by when it was released for reasons unbeknownst to me. It came up as a result of watching other films in that can be related such as Kill the Messenger, The Report, Shock and Awe, Official Secrets and Fair Game. I’m not sure it’s as good as any of those films but I enjoyed it nonetheless. Vera Farmiga is in it and I like her as an actress and the same goes for Kate Beckinsale though maybe for different reasons. Matt Dillion plays the prosecution role well and Alan Alda does what he does with the usual gravitas. Don’t rush out and watch it but if you’ve spent an hour searching for something unsuccessfully then this will fill a hole!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A runaway slave forges through the swamps of Louisiana on a tortuous journey to escape plantation owners that nearly killed him.
Firstly, to address some of the criticisms I’ve heard levelled at this picture. Yes it could be considered awards bait given the subject matter and performance of Will Smith but I’ve enjoyed many films that would have been thought of in similar fashion.
Secondly, it’s been claimed that this isn’t just another slave movie by the makers and many people disagree with that sentiment and therefore use it as a stick to beat the film with. I actually agree with that, there is nothing I haven’t seen before but that hasn’t stopped me enjoying copious amounts of westerns and war films over the years. Besides that you can reduce most films to a handful of basic storylines and it doesn’t quell your enjoyment when watching them.
Finally, it’s shot with a very limited color palette meaning it appears almost black and white for the majority of the movie. This did not bother me in the slightest and I liked this element of it and the atmosphere it created.
In short I’m not sure why there seems to be a lack of love for this film. I enjoyed it and thought it was well made with a very strong performance from Will Smith.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Set on a small Irish Island in the 20's the film follows lifelong friends who find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship.
I thought this was an absolutely wonderful film, unsurprising from the writer director of films like Seven Psychopaths, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and In Bruges which it borrows the two main actors from. A similar black humour runs throughout. I wouldn't be surprised to see it picking up an Oscar or two in 2023.
9/10
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Set on a small Irish Island in the 20's the film follows lifelong friends who find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship.
I thought this was an absolutely wonderful film, unsurprising from the writer director of films like Seven Psychopaths, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and In Bruges which it borrows the two main actors from. A similar black humour runs throughout. I wouldn't be surprised to see it picking up an Oscar or two in 2023.
9/10
Have you seen either or both of ‘The Guard’ or ‘Calvary’? They’re by Martin McDonagh’s brother John Michael, use similar actors, have familiar themes and for my money are absolute gems!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Have you seen either or both of ‘The Guard’ or ‘Calvary’? They’re by Martin McDonagh’s brother John Michael, use similar actors, have familiar themes and for my money are absolute gems!
I've seen both and I'm in full agreement, both are brilliant. I didn't realise it was Martin McDonaghs brother. It's a bit weird, albeit weird in a good way that both their films have similar vibes.
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
True story of an Iraqi SWAT team made up of locals, who are sweeping through Mosul toward the end of the Iraq war, seeking and destroying as many ISIS fighters as they can to stop them fleeing to safety. There is not a lot more to it than that really and it's almost non stop close quarters fighting from start to finish. There is a personal motive to their quest as we find out toward the end.
The film is in the native language, so if you don't like subtitles, then you may shy away, but there is not a lot of dialogue anyway.
Fast moving and very violent, but not much in the way of character building or storyline.
Set on a small Irish Island in the 20's the film follows lifelong friends who find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship.
I thought this was an absolutely wonderful film, unsurprising from the writer director of films like Seven Psychopaths, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and In Bruges which it borrows the two main actors from. A similar black humour runs throughout. I wouldn't be surprised to see it picking up an Oscar or two in 2023.
9/10
Brilliant film, so much so I’ve watched it 3 times in the last week and took something different from it each time. Also went back and watched Three Billboards again, McDonagh is incredibly talented.
Five long-time friends are invited to the Greek island home of billionaire Miles Bron. All five know Bron from way back and owe their current wealth, fame and careers to him. The main event is a murder weekend game with Bron to be the victim. In reality, they all have reasons to kill him. Also invited is Benoit Blanc, the world's greatest detective.
Let me say this from the outset this is not as good as Knives Out. It has a similarly stellar cast but doesn’t quite live up to the standards of the first film. However, it’s still a fun movie to watch that kept me entertained throughout. There will be more of these and I will look forward to them as I did both of the first 2 movies.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The Guard is a cracking film but I haven't seen Calvary, so that's another for my list, especially as it contains Kelly Reilly.
It’s definitely worth a watch Ginny and Kelly Reilly is the icing on the cake in anything she’s in-I’m in agreement with you there for sure. She’s absolutely brilliant in Yellowstone as Beth Dutton (apologies if I you’ve seen it) a great character played superbly well.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
It’s definitely worth a watch Ginny and Kelly Reilly is the icing on the cake in anything she’s in-I’m in agreement with you there for sure. She’s absolutely brilliant in Yellowstone as Beth Dutton (apologies if I you’ve seen it) a great character played superbly well.
The Yellowstone universe Taylor Sheridan has created is brilliant, but for me, that character is getting incredible tiresome now!
The Yellowstone universe Taylor Sheridan has created is brilliant, but for me, that character is getting incredible tiresome now!
*Admin can this user be permanently banned please?*
In all seriousness each to their own of course and I may be blinkered on this issue but I still love her character. Taylor Sheridan is absolutely brilliant mind and there I agree with you totally. He makes brilliant TV and films and in particular Wind River and Hell or High Water are outstanding.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
*Admin can this user be permanently banned please?*
In all seriousness each to their own of course and I may be blinkered on this issue but I still love her character. Taylor Sheridan is absolutely brilliant mind and there I agree with you totally. He makes brilliant TV and films and in particular Wind River and Hell or High Water are outstanding.
I just feel like her character has barely developed at all since the early series where her attitude and fire was good to watch, know it’s just abit predictable.
Sheridans CV outrageous - I’ve pretty much loved everything he’s done, without actually knowing it was all him until after really getting into Yellowstone. I watched Wind River again a few weeks ago and you realise half the cast of Yellowstone are in it!
I just feel like her character has barely developed at all since the early series where her attitude and fire was good to watch, know it’s just abit predictable.
Sheridans CV outrageous - I’ve pretty much loved everything he’s done, without actually knowing it was all him until after really getting into Yellowstone. I watched Wind River again a few weeks ago and you realise half the cast of Yellowstone are in it!
Have you watched Mayor of Kingstown?
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
I haven’t got to it yet, along with his other new one Tulsa King. Would you recommend?
Just sitting down to watch the first two episodes of 1923.
Yeah I would definitely recommend MoK and would be shocked if you didn’t like it. There’s a new season mid January too. 1923 and Tulsa King are on my watchlist but I’m going to wait until I can binge them.
Speaking of waiting to binge a series-have you watched Pennyworth yet Ginny?
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Yeah I would definitely recommend MoK and would be shocked if you didn’t like it. There’s a new season mid January too. 1923 and Tulsa King are on my watchlist but I’m going to wait until I can binge them.
Speaking of waiting to binge a series-have you watched Pennyworth yet Ginny?
I’ll get onto it this week! First two episodes of 1923 were promising, Harrison Ford is perfect.
Yeah I would definitely recommend MoK and would be shocked if you didn’t like it. There’s a new season mid January too. 1923 and Tulsa King are on my watchlist but I’m going to wait until I can binge them.
Speaking of waiting to binge a series-have you watched Pennyworth yet Ginny?
Started to and suddenly got bored with it, which surprised me. Seen a couple and just didn't get into it, so will leave it a bit and give it another go in a while. Maybe I wasn't in the mood for it at the time.
So, I decided to watch Calvary last night, and two minutes in realised that I had in fact seen it already. Two minutes was all it took though to draw me in and I watched it again. It is truly an excellent watch. so tonight after I get back from BP, I think I'll give The Guard a re-watch.
Six unemployed steel workers form a male striptease act. The women cheer them on to go for "the full monty" - total nudity.
Ok so it’s a bit dated now and I’ve watched it multiple times but, the time between watches is just long enough for me to forget certain bits of it. I’d not even intended to watch it but was channel flicking and it came on and I thought why not? This is proper British filmmaking at its very best. A brilliant cast with a great sense of camaraderie throughout. There are some excellent bits of humour and none are better than the line dance which I particularly love. Its unapologetically a feel good movie but that’s no bad thing and I’ll probably find myself watching it again in the not so distant future. I’m off to dust off my Brassed Off and Billy Elliott DVDs!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Don't forget Pride. Another really good British movie worth another watch.
I watched that again recently-an excellent watch I agree!
I was thinking of films I associated with that time really though not necessarily when they released. Shooting fish, train spotting, shallow grave, human traffic, hard men, lock stock, my name is Joe, nil by mouth, acid house, fever pitch, I.D, the firm, face, sexy beast, love honour and obey, maybe baby, last orders…
Im sure I’ve forgotten loads. Was a good period for me after a large part of my teenage years were watching Stallone, Arnie, JCVD, Segal and any other similar ‘actors’ movies.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Released from prison after serving a sentence for a violent crime, Ruth Slater (Bullock) re-enters a society that refuses to forgive her past. Facing severe judgment from the place she once called home, her only hope for redemption is finding the estranged younger sister she was forced to leave behind.
This is a moody drama without any bells or whistles but, for my money is a good story very well told. Sandra Bullock turns in a stripped back performance which I thought excellent. It’s grim in parts and the director has done well in portraying it, creating a dull and drab atmosphere. That doesn’t sound like too much of a compliment but, it’s done well and suits the storyline. There is also a good supporting cast including Viola Davis and Jon Bernthal. Throughout the film it felt very familiar and I felt like I’d sean it and it was only at the end when it credited the Suranne Jones drama Unforgiven as it’s source material, that the penny dropped. In no way did it stop me enjoying the film mind!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
New York Times reporters Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor break one of the most important stories in a generation - a story that helped ignite a movement and shattered decades of silence around the subject of sexual assault in Hollywood.
I have been looking forward to watching this film for some time and I am happy to say I was not in the least bit disappointed. I’ve long been a fan of Carey Mulligan and she’s on point as always but Zoe Kazan was excellent in this too. Both actresses put in great performances. It is shameful that it fell on two intrepid and dedicated reporters to break this decades old story but it was absolutely right for them to do so. I found it shocking and unexpectedly emotional at varying points in the film. I never felt I was being manipulated in to it either and was merely being presented with a fictionalised version of true events. Using a real life recording was a particularly cringeworthy moment and made my skin crawl and I like the fact he was never actually shown as such. It has the feel of films such as The Post, The Report, Frost/Nixon and Kill the Messenger but for my money betters them all. An outstanding film!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
In 2012, having been lost for over 500 years, the remains of King Richard III were discovered beneath a carpark in Leicester. The search had been orchestrated by an amateur historian, Philippa Langley, whose unrelenting research had been met with incomprehension by her friends and family and with scepticism by experts and academics.
Unsurprisingly Sally Hawkins is very good in this film and there’s notable support from Mark Addy, Harry Lloyd, Steve Coogan and Lee Ingleby. This is a fictionalised but disputed film about true events. I’m no historian but from a film point of view I thought it excellent and really enjoyed it. There is something quintessentially English about the underdog putting the skids under the establishment and I’m a sucker for it!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A 15 year old boy comes to hire on among an ex-con's group of aging forest laborers. As the man becomes more and more aware of the boy's abusive home life, his deeply buried humanity is roused. He finally takes the matter into his own hands when the boy's alcoholic father finally goes too far.
Ok so I have a soft spot for Nic Cage and I know his career has been very hit and miss but, this is a gem of a movie and is for me, is criminally underrated. I actually think it’s Sheridanesque and a bit like hell or high water in feel but far more destitute and grim.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Five long-time friends are invited to the Greek island home of billionaire Miles Bron. All five know Bron from way back and owe their current wealth, fame and careers to him. The main event is a murder weekend game with Bron to be the victim. In reality, they all have reasons to kill him. Also invited is Benoit Blanc, the world's greatest detective.
Let me say this from the outset this is not as good as Knives Out. It has a similarly stellar cast but doesn’t quite live up to the standards of the first film. However, it’s still a fun movie to watch that kept me entertained throughout. There will be more of these and I will look forward to them as I did both of the first 2 movies.
I fully agree with this - it's never going to top a list of great films but it's thoroughly entertaining and well worth a watch
Empire of Light 10/10 Brilliant film made to the backdrop of the early 80s with Two Tone music acting as the antidote to the right wing skinhead racism. Olivia Colman is simply astonishing in the role of a cinema assistant manager beset by mental health problems. Filmed in Margate.
The aim of argument or discussion should not be victory but progress.
Empire of Light 10/10 Brilliant film made to the backdrop of the early 80s with Two Tone music acting as the antidote to the right wing skinhead racism. Olivia Colman is simply astonishing in the role of a cinema assistant manager beset by mental health problems. Filmed in Margate.
Two lifelong friends find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, with alarming consequences for both of them.
I absolutely adored this film. I’d have trouble selling it to someone in the fact little happens and the films entire plot is about nothing much. But therein lies the beauty, it takes the achingly trivial and mundane and elevates it into this wonderfully acted and crafted film about life. It’s a weird concoction with some brilliant dark humour however, it’s really poignant and touching at times too. I can imagine this splitting people down the middle and I’d not be surprised to hear someone say they didn't get it or the fuss and wasn’t keen but I fall on the other side of the fence for sure. There are some great performances and Farrell will probably get the plaudits and rightly so but, I’d say every performance no matter how big or small was totally on point. An outstanding bit of film making and Martin McDonagh has done it again.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
At West Point Academy in 1830, the calm of an October evening is shattered by the discovery of a young cadet's body swinging from a rope just off the parade grounds. An apparent suicide is not unheard of in a harsh regimen like West Point's, but the next morning, an even greater horror comes to light. Someone has stolen into the room where the body lay and removed the heart.
For the first half an hour I have to admit I found this a little awkward and it grated on me. Gladly I persevered with it and by the end I was happy I did. There is some good acting from an excellent cast and the final act is particularly pleasing. It won’t be the best film you’ve seen but for me it was worth a watch….in the end!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The new Steven Spielberg film, based loosely on Spielbergs adolescence and first years as a filmmaker, told through an original story of the fictional Sammy Fabelman, a young aspiring filmmaker who explores how the power of films can help him see the truth about his dysfunctional family and those around him.
As we expect from Spielberg, this is great to look at and all but I did get a bit bored and did think that if it was any other director it would just be a standard American melodrama. 7/10
"Lovelly stuff! not my words but the words of Shakin Stevens."
Set over 24 hours in London, a man goes on a bold and reckless journey of self-liberation.
At times owing to the way it is filmed this was a dizzying ordeal that was stress inducing. I have been trying to sum it up in my own mind and the best I can do is if Ken Loach did a British version of the Michael Douglas film Falling Down. At times it did feel like I Daniel Blake and Sorry We missed You. Whatever my thoughts I know Ben Whishaw puts in a brilliant performance and it’s worth watching for that alone.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
As Scott Lang balances being both a superhero and a father, Hope van Dyne and Dr. Hank Pym present an urgent new mission that finds the Ant-Man fighting alongside The Wasp to uncover secrets from their past.
I used to be a snob about superhero movies barring Batman. But owing to the fact they took over the world and you couldn’t get away from them, I tried them and really enjoyed most of them too. Infinity War and Endgame stand up against most ‘normal’ films in my humble opinion. But alas it then seemed that a day didn’t go by without one being released and it all got a bit much. I decided to dip back in on this one because I really enjoyed the first and I’m a big fan of Paul Rudd. I wasn’t disappointed and it had the right mix of humour and action with Michael Pena supporting well. When everything is going BIG this provides a welcome relief and point of difference and the super hero genre is all the better for it.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Watched this because of Eddie Marsan, who's always good.
He plays a quiet loner who works for the borough council in London, arranging the funerals of people who have died with no obvious family or friends to speak of.
He goes the extra mile for his "clients" and tries to give them a dignified send off, often attending the funerals alone.
His boss isn't happy with this and just wants them disposed of as quickly and cheaply as possible, with cremation being his preferred choice.
It's a slow, quiet, poignant type of film with a sad but uplifting ending, and I enjoyed it.
Empire of Light 10/10 Brilliant film made to the backdrop of the early 80s with Two Tone music acting as the antidote to the right wing skinhead racism. Olivia Colman is simply astonishing in the role of a cinema assistant manager beset by mental health problems. Filmed in Margate.
Empire of Light 9/10
From the melancholic piano music at the start to the poetry that saw out the end of the film I was hooked. It is understated but Unbelievably sad and strangely emotional at times and full of hope through adversity. The film brims with romance , sentiment, nostalgia and is an absolute delight. Olivia Colman is Brilliant (when is she not?) and Michael Ward is excellent too in a role far away from the one that he occupies In Topboy. I also like Toby Jones in it as well but there’s not a performance in it that’s bad. It won’t be for everyone but I loved it!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Based on the infamous Boston Strangler murders, this is the true story of Loretta McLaughlin, the first reporter to connect the murders and break the story of the Strangler. She and fellow reporter Jean Cole challenged the sexism of the early 1960s to report on the city's most notorious serial killer and worked tirelessly to keep women informed.
I don’t think this will be for everyone and it’s a movie I can imagine my Mum describing as ‘slow’ (they all are to her) but, I really enjoyed it. It’s not perfect by any shot but Carrie Coon and Kiera Knightley are good. I would say it’s in the same vein as Zodiac without reaching those heights but it’s very good nonetheless.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Brilliant but disgraced detective John Luther breaks out of prison to hunt down a sadistic serial killer who is terrorising London.
Firstly I am a big fan of Idris Elba and absolutely love the tv series Luther but this film was a huge disappointment. For me it just didn’t translate in to a feature film and despite it being over 2 hours it felt rushed and lacked depth. What ‘storyline’ there was centred around violence porn and an extreme version of Hobson’s choice. I was looking forward to this film but it was a load of rubbish and I only hope the next one is much, much better.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Low budget British film set in Margate about a schoolgirl from a dysfunctional family, who is trying to juggle going to school, with looking after her younger brother and sister, and also working part time in an amusement arcade, where she earns extra money with certain services for the male clients of the arcade; something that ends up backfiring on her.
She frequently gets into arguments and fights at school and has an acid tongue, so her drama teacher tries to encourage her to turn to stand up as an outlet for her rage.
Her mother is a total flake, which doesn't help her cause and it all comes to a head on a showcase night at a local theatre, which her teacher has been planning with the pupils for some time.
Made a change from he big budget Hollywood fare and I quite enjoyed it.
It's set in modern day Belfast thought it was very good.
It follows 3 new recruits that are doing their 3 month probation period.
All different characters working along side an experience cop.
If you get the chance Pete check this guy out if you don't know about him already . Leroy Logan was a black police officer in the metropolitan police who joined to create positive change primarily among black communities after years of discrimination and anti police sentiment amongst sections of the black community. His Christian faith as time went on helped him as well. Became part of law enforcement despite his dad being beaten up by members of the metropolitan police over a small traffic incident and was initially dead against him joining the police .
I read his autobiography Leroy Logan my life as a cop closing ranks and I know the BBC done a documentary series on him as well titled small axe .
If you get the chance Pete check this guy out if you don't know about him already . Leroy Logan was a black police officer in the metropolitan police who joined to create positive change primarily among black communities after years of discrimination and anti police sentiment amongst sections of the black community. His Christian faith as time went on helped him as well. Became part of law enforcement despite his dad being beaten up by members of the metropolitan police over a small traffic incident and was initially dead against him joining the police .
I read his autobiography Leroy Logan my life as a cop closing ranks and I know the BBC done a documentary series on him as well titled small axe .
In my eyes a true hero 👏.
If your talking about the Steve McQueen passion project it’s not a documentary series. It is very good mind and does have your man in it. It’s a series of films set around London covering real and fictional characters and events over different periods of time. Well worth a watch!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
If your talking about the Steve McQueen passion project it’s not a documentary series. It is very good mind and does have your man in it. It’s a series of films set around London covering real and fictional characters and events over different periods of time. Well worth a watch!
Yes your right . It was written by Steve McQueen. I know small axe is still on the BBC I player. I haven't seen it as of yet .
In the year 2045, the real world is a harsh place. The only time Wade Watts (Tye Sheridan) truly feels alive is when he escapes to the OASIS, an immersive virtual universe where most of humanity spends their days. In the OASIS, you can go anywhere, do anything, be anyone--the only limits are your own imagination. The OASIS was created by the brilliant and eccentric James Halliday (Mark Rylance), who left his immense fortune and total control of the Oasis to the winner of a three-part contest he designed to find a worthy heir. When Wade conquers the first challenge of the reality-bending treasure hunt, he and his friends--The High Five--are hurled into a fantastical universe of discovery and danger to save the OASIS.
This is not normally my cup of tea at all but Id heard good things and a mate of mine has been badgering me to see it since it’s release. Anyway, we sat down with the kids and made this our movie night complete with a picnic tea, sweets and popcorn. It’s absolutely a popcorn movie too-it looks good and I thoroughly enjoyed the subtle and not so obvious pop culture references that littered the film. It’s brilliantly done for my money and overall we all liked it to varying degrees but it’s good not great for my money.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Watched it with my lad last night. Really enjoyed it and it brought back many memories of certain tracks, characters and places on the original game. Very cleverly produced.
Supernatural film with a heartwarming message. Kevin Costner starred in this film and plays the part of a doctor who experiences tragedy. Without giving too much away the film evolves into one of messages and meaning often through the natural world culminating in an experience that brings hope at the end.
A gentle, sweet, funny, romantic story of love in later life following a couple in their sixties, Dave and Fern, who get to know one another over the course of 23 dog walks.
As is often the case we plumped for this film after getting bored of scrolling and searching for the perfect movie. What is to say about this film!? It is a bittersweet, sentimental, sad, gently amusing, realistic and heartwarming affair that is like a Mike Leigh love story. Alison Steadman and Dave Johns are excellent in this and both were authentic in the playing of their roles. We really enjoyed this, it’s a film film and it’s full of things to enjoy (and not).
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Based on real events, the dramatic thriller "Gareth Jones" chronicles a British investigative journalist as he travels deep into the Soviet Union to uncover an international conspiracy. His life-or-death journey inspires George Orwell's "Animal Farm". The director of the film is Agnieszka Holland.
This is what I would call a proper ‘film film’ and I was impressed by it. I actually think it could have been longer and more evenly spread as a result but that’s being picky and over critical. It’s a film that relies purely on its subject matter to tell its story and has no bells or whistles and nor should it. James Norton is excellent as the lead and has a good supporting cast too. I like Vanesa Kirby and Peter Sarsgaard is always good value whatever the material. I’ve had this and Minamata on the list for ages and I think I’ll give that a whirl now.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Based on real events, the dramatic thriller "Gareth Jones" chronicles a British investigative journalist as he travels deep into the Soviet Union to uncover an international conspiracy. His life-or-death journey inspires George Orwell's "Animal Farm". The director of the film is Agnieszka Holland.
Last film I saw.Yes very poignant and harrowing especially when as it turns out Americans were pushing business interests over humanitarian ones.
A film based on real events that I found very gripping and hard hitting was "the boss anatomy of a crime (2014) which is on Netflix. Its about an exploited Argentinian butcher who is pushed to the limit by a unscrupulous boss. You may or may not have seen it but having known Argentinian people personally who migrated to Europe its something that struck very close to home.
During the last desperate days of WWII, a solitary prospector (Jorma Tommila) crosses paths with Nazis on a scorched-earth retreat in northern Finland. When the Nazis steal his gold, they quickly discover that they have just tangled with no ordinary miner.
Absolute bull5hit but highly entertaining nonetheless. It’s a B movie but with a budget above that station. Low on dialogue with high levels of gratuitous violence and gore, it’s not for the squeamish. There’s a Tarantino vibe to it for sure and hints of Fury Road, John Wick, Rambo and Inglorious Basterds.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Baltimore. New Year's Eve. A talented but troubled police officer (Shailene Woodley) is recruited by the FBI's chief investigator (Ben Mendelsohn) to help profile and track down a disturbed individual terrorizing the city.
Storyline is engaging enough and the two main actors do their best but this is not a good film. My best advice is not to bother. We picked it to save time trawling as that’s been successful for us recently but this was all over the place. Rubbish!!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The story of Tony Blair's destruction of the Labour Party, his well-remunerated business interests, and the thousands of innocent people who have died following his decision to invade Iraq.
Like with any good Michael Moore documentary you have to consider his politics and agenda and the same can be said here but for George Galloway. However, this factor aside it’s clear that Toby Blair provided enough material himself that this isn’t an ill conceived hatchet job. It is truly astounding to see what Blair became laid out in front of you when faced with his numerous ‘crimes’ and actual crimes. What an absolute charlatan he was! twit!!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
During the war in Afghanistan, a local interpreter risks his own life to carry an injured sergeant across miles of grueling terrain.
I thought this was a brilliant film and I thoroughly enjoyed it all, in fact it could have been a bit longer for my money. Jake Gyllenhaal is as reliable as ever and Dar Salim is also very good. Barring a couple of Needless Ritchieisms this is a departure from his normal style and it’s all the better for it. I think this is worth anyones time.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Fisherman’s Friend 7/10 Fisherman’s Friend: One and All 6/10
A fast living, cynical London music executive heads to a remote Cornish village on a stag weekend where he's pranked by his boss into trying to sign a group of shanty singing fishermen. He becomes the ultimate "fish out of water" as he struggles to gain the respect or enthusiasm of the unlikely boy band and their families who value friendship and community over fame and fortune. As he's drawn deeper into the traditional way of life he's forced to reevaluate his own integrity and ultimately question what success really means.
The first film is better than the second but overall we enjoyed both. We watch this type of film on a Sunday evening and we watched them on consecutive Sundays. It’s nothing you haven’t seen before and is gentle and easy to watch but entertaining nonetheless. A lot of the music is catchy and some have found their way on to my playlists. I enjoyed the various references to Grimsby in the second too. It has a stellar British cast who looked like they enjoyed making every minute. They were a good accompaniment to see out the weekends with.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Born 2 Race Don't like cars? 3/10, avoid Do like cars? 6.5/10, worthy of a watch
This is one of those reckless teen coming-of-age whilst re-engaging a relationship with his estranged father type films, but its also got a healthy does of fast&the furious welded on to make it a little different to the usual.
It's got a certain charm to it that a few straight to DVD films tend to have. The characters are actually well acted and fleshed out - even if they are a collection of stereotypes. If you too rolled a Corsa (complete with loud exhaust and Maxx power stickers) on the A16 in your youth this will be an enjoyable hour and 20 minutes on a Sunday afternoon
Troy Maxson makes his living as a sanitation worker in 1950s Pittsburgh. Maxson once dreamed of becoming a professional baseball player, but was deemed too old when the major leagues began admitting black athletes. Bitter over his missed opportunity, Troy creates further tension in his family when he squashes his son's chance to meet a college football recruiter.
Denzel Washington is an absolutely outstanding actor and right up there with my favourites of all time. I don’t know why it took me this long to watch Fences but I’m glad I got round to it. I don’t think this will be for everyone but the craft on display is undoubtedly top drawer with Viola David matching Denzel every step of the way. It took me 20 minutes to acclimatise to the film and I think it’s obvious this is a film adaptation of a stage play but it’s an excellent one.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Troy Maxson makes his living as a sanitation worker in 1950s Pittsburgh. Maxson once dreamed of becoming a professional baseball player, but was deemed too old when the major leagues began admitting black athletes. Bitter over his missed opportunity, Troy creates further tension in his family when he squashes his son's chance to meet a college football recruiter.
Denzel Washington is an absolutely outstanding actor and right up there with my favourites of all time. I don’t know why it took me this long to watch Fences but I’m glad I got round to it. I don’t think this will be for everyone but the craft on display is undoubtedly top drawer with Viola David matching Denzel every step of the way. It took me 20 minutes to acclimatise to the film and I think it’s obvious this is a film adaptation of a stage play but it’s an excellent one.
Agree. Excellent film.
"The socialism I believe in is everybody working for the same goal and everybody having a share in the rewards. That’s how I see football, that’s how I see life.” Bill Shankly
A young mother escapes her abusive husband and fights back against a broken housing system. She sets out to build her own home and in the process rebuilds her life and re-discovers herself.
This very much reminded me of a film version of the excellent tv series Maid. The lead actress is one of the main protagonists in Kin and she is equally impressive in this role as she is as Amanda Kinsella in that. Hard to watch at times, especially the parts in which the children witness the devastating consequences of domestic abuse. But it has many redeeming features too, not least the group of friends that are formed along the way which leads to a surprising end. An under the radar gem in my opinion and we thought it was a good watch.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
"The socialism I believe in is everybody working for the same goal and everybody having a share in the rewards. That’s how I see football, that’s how I see life.” Bill Shankly
My association is purely because they were out at similar times and were up for many of the same awards. It also took me ages to get round to Moonlight too but I was happy once I’d seen it. An excellent film!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
In 2074, when the mob wants to get rid of someone, the target is sent into the past, where a hired gun awaits - someone like Joe - who one day learns the mob wants to 'close the loop' by sending back Joe's future self for assassination.
As I have mentioned before I wouldn’t class myself as a Sci-Fi fan, in fact in general I tend to avoid films of that nature. It’s taken me years to watch this and I have it recorded it many times only to delete it on each occasion too.
I thought this was an outstanding piece of film making, it watches like a noir film or certainly felt that way to me. It’s very stylish but doesn’t lack for substance either.
It has a brilliant cast and although it’s not perfect at about 2 hours the movie just flew by. If you haven’t seen this yourself I would recommend going out your way to see it. I’m glad I did!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
After Irish-American brothers Connor McManus (Sean Patrick Flanery) and Murphy MacManus (Norman Reedus) cheat death with the Russian mob a day after St. Patrick's Day, the two decide to voluntarily stay overnight at a police station, where they receive what appears to be a message from God to rid Boston of all evil.
I put this on the watchlist after listening to Billy Connolly’s autobiography and he’s the best thing in it and he’s hardly on screen or says anything. It’s not the worst film I’ve ever seen and I can imagine my younger self enjoying it of a Sunday evening after a few jars down the pub but it’s not the best. There is a second which I shall not be bothering with and I’d recommend to all not to bother with this either. It’s
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Inspired by the true story of Bert Trautmann (Kross, of The Reader), a German who during World War II served as an ardent member of the Hitler Youth and later of the Luftwaffe. Then after the war he played soccer in England, as a goalkeeper for Manchester City. His presence on the team, which hired him in 1949, inspired protests. Would fans ever accept a former enemy as a star player?
I really enjoyed this and would categorise as a good Sunday afternoon/evening film. It’s like a good quality TV movie that isn’t going to tax the old grey matter too much. Solid if not spectacular and with heavy doses of nostalgia to boot which is perfect for some light entertainment.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A man stranded in the Arctic after a plane crash must decide whether to remain in the relative safety of his makeshift camp or to embark on a deadly trek through the unknown.
This film won’t be for everyone but I really, really enjoyed it. I’m a big fan of Mads Mikkelsen and he is his normal impressive self in this story too. There is little dialogue in the entire film and only 2 actors but given the context it’s hardly surprising. If you liked ‘Cast Away’ ‘Into the Wild’ or ‘All is lost’ I’m pretty confident you will enjoy this as well.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Tom Nichols is a hardened New England detective, unflinching in his pursuit of a case where nothing is as it seems and it begins to dismantle the illusions in his own life.
I have to admit that I watched this for two reasons, one being the genre and the second being Del Torro who I rate extremely highly. Overall I was disappointed because I expected more than I got and at over 2hours long the pay off come the end, didn’t justify the time. A plodding film that’s not awful but not exactly that good either. Give it a miss!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A single mom at war with her son is trying to find a hobby for him. One day, she rescues a guitar from a skip.
Whilst not exactly the same, this film evoked the same sort of feelings I got from Once, Sing Street and Begin Again. I loved it from start to finish and I really liked the performances from the two leads. The music in it is again really good and it just feels really natural and not manufactured with the irony being, that’s the process of the film at heart.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
A dramatization of the life story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the physicist who had a large hand in the development of the atomic bomb, thus helping end World War 2. We see his life from university days all the way to post-WW2, where his fame saw him embroiled in political machinations.
Knowing how well Nolan creates sound and effects I was hesitant to watch this as the subject matter frightens the bejesus out of me. What I expected was very different to the reality I’m pleased to say. The cast is fantastic as with all his films and unsurprisingly Murphy is absolutely brilliant. It mixes heavy dialogue with breathtaking visuals and the story is told in such a way that I didn’t notice it was 3 hours long. I was glued to my seat for the entire watch. It’s another Nolan masterpiece folks!
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
When oil is discovered in 1920s Oklahoma under Osage Nation land, the Osage people are murdered one by one - until the FBI steps in to unravel the mystery.
A barely believable true story told in typical Martin Scorsese fashion is just the ticket for me. I absolutely love him and his movies and this is no different. As with Oppenheimer, come the end I didn’t feel like I’d sat through such a long film. It’s a shade under 3.5 hours but is worth every second. De Niro is excellent and with this sort of material that’s hardly a surprise. DiCaprio is top drawer for yet another Callaboration with Bob n Marty (I’m mates with them obviously) but Lily Gladstone steals the show for me.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
The future for the last remaining pub, The Old Oak, in a village of Northeast England, where people are leaving the land as the mines are closed. Houses are cheap and available, thus making it an ideal location for Syrian refugees.
The fact that this didn’t quite hit the heights of I, Daniel Blake or Sorry We Missed you, speak more of the quality of those two films rather than a lack of it in this. I’m a fan of Ken Loach but regardless this is a film that stands on its own two feet even in the company of his other great films. I think a lot of sentimentality creeps in to The Old Oak which may just be reflective of this supposedly being his last film. I enjoyed this film a lot and found it touching, poignant and infuriating too! I was really rooting for a big pay off come the end that didn’t happen . Perhaps it’s a better film for it though and begrudgingly I respect the lack of it more than I perhaps would have, had it arrived. If you liked Looking for Eric, My Name is Joe or and / Herself I think you would enjoy this. If you’re a person who uses ‘woke’ a lot, reads the daily mail or watch GB news then I’d stay well away.
“I know writers who use subtext and they’re all cowards.” –Garth Marenghi
Location: Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right, stuck in the middle...
Approval:+7,194
Gold Stars: 291
Anon
7.5/10
Was on the TV last night on Sky Sci Fi.
Everybody has their personal data held in the 'ether' and is available to everyone else, including video footage of their lives. A perfect way to prevent crime. But a rogue hacker starts killing people and their data doesn't exist. A cop, trying to deal with his own personal issues, has to track them down.
It's clever, sexy, just violent enough and set in a future that isn't too far away. Clive Owen stars.
I enjoyed it more than I expected to.
Miss Scunthorpe. Not a beauty pageant, just sound advice.
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