Category Archives: Film Reviews

Review

‘I’ll probably end up doing something depressing but young’ – Brooke

Filmmakers Noah Baumbach and Greta Gerwig are a bit of an it couple at the moment. With the dynamic and inspiring Frances Ha (2012) already under their belt, the King and Queen of ‘mumblecore’ bring us Mistress America, a witty screwball comedy perhaps a little self aware but non the less an entertaining romp!

Gerwig stars in the title role as Brooke, a charming but shallow spin instructor/math(s) tutor/upcoming-interior designer who becomes newly acquainted with step sister-to-be Tracy, a lonely Literature freshman. The women quickly form a tight bond, running around New York attending parties, talking future business ventures and desperately looking for something to complete themselves. Eventually Brooke finds herself seeking advice from a fortune teller when looking for her next investor for a restaurant she plans on opening in the trendy Williamsburg. A trip down memory lane ensues, as Brooke and her new college friends pitch the restaurant to her arch nemesis and wealthy ex-boyfriend for the life changing $200,000 investment. Along the way, Tracy uses Brooke’s rollercoaster lifestyle as inspiration for a short story she hopes to enter into the Lit Society whose initiations include a pie in the face at 2am and as much cheese and wine and briefcase talking you can stomach. Meanwhile, Tracy’s best friend Tony who is micro managed by his over protective girlfriend also find themselves pulled into Brooke’s turbulent adventures.

As ridiculous as the plot turns into, the film is peppered with playful dialogue that has a distinct sense of rhythm. It’s like watching jousting matches but with words instead of pointy sticks; a credit to the actor’s clean comedic timing, as well as the obvious writing talent. Overall, a fun and likeable cast with some interesting retrospects on life that never quite dives deep enough to really connect with. However if you’re looking for something unique and light hearted, Mistress America is a great choice and is currently being streamed on Netflix (UK).

Review

‘An utter delight!‘

An angelic bubble of 19th century high society where Jane Austen’s vivacious lead plays match-maker in this pretty comedy adaptation of a British classic.

More light on it’s feet than Greta Gerwig’s Little Woman (2020) but perhaps lacking the substance and feminist themes of Austen’s novel. Albeit, the film is extremely enjoyable and is framed by gorgeous cinematography that transports the viewer to a romantic utopia, as well as featuring humorous performances from the ensemble. Although supported by well known actors including Bill Nighy and Miranda Hart the film is adorned with the future faces of British cinema talent. Most notably, Anya Taylor Joy who plays Emma with grace and a sparkling charisma, while Mia Goth charms the pants off you as her character Harriet evolves from an ugly duckling.

Probably the most digestible of Emma adaptations and will enchant audiences young and old.

Due to lockdown the film has been pulled from cinemas early but is available to watch on Amazon Video, Sky Store, Google Play and is the perfect Easter treat to huddle in front of with a hot cuppa.

Review

‘An anti-American love story‘

A 70s cult favourite and deservedly so, Midnight Cowboy is a critique on capitalist America, as well as a sentimental love story between two men who are running after the unobtainable American dream.

After my first screening of the film I read some reviews that described the two main characters Joe Buck (John Voight) and Ratso/Rizzo (Dustin Hoffman) as “losers”, which upset me as the pair are victim to a greedy and unjust city. In this way, the movie is very effecting and will lead audiences to consider what kind of world we are living in; a place that marginalises the poorest and most vulnerable people in society. Following the journey of wannabe street hustler Joe and Jewish con-artist Rizzo, the protagonists fall in and out of a consumer society and occasionally into the bed of the elite. At one point while ambling through a colourful but vapid “hip” New York party Ratso pick pockets the drugged up “it” kids who think because they take LSD and own a film camera they are artists and have something important to say. While in reality Ratso or Rizzo as his preferred name stashes ham from the buffet under his trench coat for a later, hungrier hour, just before the cold sets into his bones and the last cigarette has dropped to the dirt ground in his deserted back alley home. All the while, a young starry eyed and baby faced John Voight rides the high of a quick fix and a taste of the dream he had so long hoped for. By the time the party dries up and his customer has had her fun, Joe is shooed away with 20 bucks in his back pocket and returns to the one constant pillar in his world. This is a film that is anti-American, in all senses of the word. It exposes a dark underworld, resembling the dystopian fiction we so often see in the movies but so rarely exposed in naturalist cinema. It is a visually striking and emotionally poignant story, about two friends stumbling through the pain of poverty, riddled by loneliness and use the odd gag to deal with it all.

For all the sex in the film and the indication of a past love the tragic heroes’ relationship seems the only thing that resembles any real human connection, even if deviated with their tough guy fronts. Whilst Rizzo and Joe are haunted by past traumas and constant push backs, they never lose sight of what the American dream promises but ultimately fails to deliver them. Because let’s be honest, what else do they really have to live for? As a story that rings true today, Midnight Cowboy remains essential viewing for both social and cinematic reasons.

The picture is celebrating 40 years since its release and has been visually restored and set for screening in a cinema near you this coming Autumn (UK). Don’t miss it.

Review

‘They didn’t ruin it… I promise!‘

“They’re making another one” my brother sighed when Pixar announced its 4^th addition to the flawless Toy Story universe. My heart sank at the thought Toy Story 3’s perfect ending was about to be tainted by an unnecessary sequel. As one of cinemas most beloved film series, my apologies Pixar, I should have had more faith in you. What Pixar delivered was not just a great addition but a great stand-alone film that avoids regurgitating past plot lines with an original story and exceptional character development. For instance, Bo-Peep returns as a kick arse heroine (I’m sure the evolution of Bo-Peep will have sparked a video essay or two), while Woody battles an inner conflict in the hopes to prove his worth to new owner Bonnie. With the help of Buzz, the original gang band together to keep Bonnie happy at all costs; even if it means rescuing a spork from an army of ventriloquist dummies. For me, this film was a bit of a tear jerker, maybe because I grew up with the series, maybe because I was on my period. What I do know is that the film frames a heartfelt story with spectacular visuals and really throws you into the Toy Story stratosphere we all know and love. Once again Pixar prove they are masters of storytelling and will never fail to bring a tear of laughter or nostalgia to the eye.

Overall as the warmest addition to the formidable franchise, Toy Story 4 beams with humour, detailed action, some surprises and a trade mark soulful message.