My Favorite Movies

I am still in awe of this movie, and probably will be for some time to come. Not only is it better than BATMAN BEGINS and has become the best comic-book-turned-movie ever! It also is now one of the best movies out there - period.

From the moment it started to way after it finished, i was hooked (and I'm not a huge fan of batman).

My only concern leading up to the release of TDK was the amount of hype it had around Heath Ledger and the fact that he died, and had most likely given cinema the best performance he would ever give. So as we know, hypes only good when it works, and too much hype pretty much kills any chance on becoming anything more than enjoyable.

It's not the case here! Heath Ledger's performance was simply unreal. There's nothing else that can be said. It's sad though, that he isn't around to accept and hear the praise that the world is giving him for the performance that undoubtedly he will be remembered for, forever.

Now, onto the rest of the cast; even though Christian Bale is of course the leading man, it seems every scene where he is with Ledger, he doesn't stand a chance of being noticed (and thats not saying he's bad- he's actually very good.). And even though it hurts me to say this, i'd go as far as saying that this movie is not a BATMAN film, rather this movie belongs to the joker in its entirety.
Onto Maggie Gyllenhaal (who replaced Katie Holmes).... I've never really liked her, but i've never hated her. And if we're being honest, i still would have rathered to see Katie return for the role, but I'll admit Maggie did the role just as good... And yes, i actually quite like her now.

Onto the Snr members of the group - Michael Caine, Gary Oldman and Morgan Freeman. These guys bloody rock, they never disappoint, no matter what they do. And they didn't change here, the only thing that could have been better, was actually given them more screen time (in Freeman and Caine's case anyway)
I'll also add that Aaron Eckhart was actually one of my favourite things about this film. He did one hell of a job.

Christopher Nolan has, without a doubt done it again, but only bigger and better. He had taken BATMAN BEGINS (which i still think is fantastic) but perfected everything to give us TDK.
Well after the film had ended all that was running through my head was the thought that we had just witnessed one of the most truely captivating films of our time, and it while it is only a comic-book film in the end, it will be a long time before we see something that can do better.

So obviously ,If you haven't already you really must see it.

I don't know why it took me so long to watch this movie. So glad i finally watched it. The writing is excellent and Pitt and Norton performances are fantastic.

I don't often rate movies 5 stars, but this definitely deserves it!

A very, very well thought out and refreshing aussie film- a definite viewing if found. Wonderful exploration of death and how it affects people.
Unique film in that it encorporates art into the the film itself.
A more thorough review will be completed in due time.
Will be adding to favourite movies of all time!

Dark and Twisted film with a scarred hero which can be argued is good nor evil. Stylish and enjoyable.

Best Batman film ever! Dark and stylish! All star cast ensures a great movie watching experience!

Sin City creates a whole new world to explore and in one word, it?s a blast from beginning to end. It is a refreshing view on modernized filmmaking with its stylish visuals and explosive content whether it?s the blood-soaked action or the sexually charged scenes. Despite having never read the graphic novels Sin City is based upon, there is no disadvantage in having not seen them at all; fans have confirmed the stories portrayed in Sin City are very similar to the original Novels. This is because author Frank Miller was also involved in the production of the film as the co-director- so he had direct contact with the film at all times.

The ?feel? of Sin City is very similar to the film noir genre in that there is a heavy dependency on the use of shadows in the black and white effect used throughout the film. However the occasional splash of a bright colour such as red or yellow is a welcomed and valuable effect. Sin City also similar to the film noir genre in that the majority of the movie is overlapped with a constant, first person voiceover and tough-guy lines such as: ?After a while all I'm doing is punching wet chips of bone into the floorboards. So I stop?
Speaking of the ?feel? of the film, Visually, It is absolutely fantastic. Shot mainly in with the use of green screens, which allowed for the artificial backgrounds (as well as some major foreground elements, such as cars) to be added later during the post-production stage. This is where the technology aspect comes back into the discussion. Just by the use of green screens, Rodriguez can alter the scene in so many ways to suite the film- it?s mind-boggling? and just plain amazing.

Now, The Cast of Sin City is just too big to go through each individual cast member and discuss their performance, so I?ll go through those that were in the key roles, and those that were just plain awesome. Mickey Roarke is amazing as the Hardcore, indestructible, beast-like Marv. Whether it was the bloody action scenes or coming up with the cheesiest lines Roarke was the best choice as Marv in every scenario thinkable. Bruce Willis plays a part he?s born to do. The Hero, The One that has to save the day?and the girl (Die Hard anyone?). Jessica Alba plays the unbelievably sexy Nancy; her first scene (Dancing at a bar wearing a Cow-Girl suit- with all the accessories such as a whip) will put all those fan-boys at rest. However just too confirm Alba?s criticized acting ability, she?s good with her clothes on also. Clive Owen is very well-cast as the sensitive-yet-tough P.I Dwight. Also worth a mention is Rosario Dawson who plays the fierce lead Hooker Gail.

Sin City is perhaps one of Rodriguez?s greatest achievements as a director (having not seen the much-anticipated Grindhouse yet). His other works of art include; Once Upon a time in Mexico, Spy Kids 2 and the Faculty. It is clear that Rodriguez has become adapt to the use of technology and that he is one director that is proficient when it comes to using that knowledge of technology along side his directing.

Now, it?s only fair that credit is given to Frank Miller, who is listed in the credits as co-director. Although it?s hard to say where Rodriguez?s work stops and Miller?s begins, but it?s obvious that Miller deserves the credit for his creation. This is one ?comic book? adaptation that was meant to be brought to the screen.

Overall amongst the praise of Sin City, it?s still not going to be for everyone. The action, animated gore and the amount of violence present in the film backs up the claim. However people that enjoy either works of art, action films and/or comic-book adaptations should look no further.

The Departed looks as good on the outside as it is on the inside, with an all star cast, a talented Director and 4 Oscar Awards why wouldn?t it?
Martin Scorsese (Goodfellas) returns to his trademark style with violence, violence, and more violence. Set in Massachusetts The Departed follows two just-graduated officers from Massachusetts State Police Academy; William Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) is assigned to work undercover with the Irish mobster Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson) to get substantial evidence to arrest him. His true identity is kept extremely private and his identity is known to only two other officers. The other graduated officer, Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon) is promoted into the Boston Police Force however he is an informer for Costello. When it becomes clear that there is a ?rat? within each group, both Costigan and Sullivan must conceal their own identities while finding the ?rat? at the same time.
The acting is suburb as should be expected from a cast like this. Nicholson and Damon were excellent as the ?likeable bad guys?, DiCaprio shines in his role, expressing an amazing amount of emotion (Where is he?s Oscar?).
The script was also very pleasing; it was down to earth and quite refreshing.
It can be argued but there is no film out there that is absolutely perfect, every film has its flaws and The Departed shortcoming was that it stretched out a little; a little trimming of the running time would have been wonderful, but that is just a minor flaw. It still shines as one of this year?s best new release movie.

'Prepare for Glory'- literally. 300 is the first film in a long while to truly captivate me by the pure looks of the film. The level of artistic film-making has now officially been raised upon the release of 300.
Based on Frank Miller's graphic novel about the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 B.C., 300 tells the epic tale of the Greek city of Sparta. When the Persian king sends his massive army to conquer Greece, 300 Spartan soldiers are chosen to meet the Persians at Thermopylae. Although the battle is a suicide mission, meant to buy time for the rest of the Greek forces to prepare for the invasion, the Spartans stick to their dignity and courage and become determined to take as many Persians as possible with them.
The major attraction to 300 is its battle scenes; which have to be the best visually choreographed battle scenes ever to be seen on film. All the fights are beautifully composed and they aren?t over the top with gore. On top of the brilliantly choreographed battle scenes; the editing is matched perfectly with the visuals- during specific battle scenes the scene would slow down to emphasize particular battle techniques or emotions, which is a very valuable and welcomed effect.
Not only are the battle scenes good but 300 in general is visually attractive. This is because most of the scenes were shot with the use of a blue screen, which allowed Snyder to add artificial backgrounds later in the post-production stage.
While visually, 300 receives full marks, narrative-wise, it loses some. There is a lack of story development and character development throughout the entire film. Although the first 20-30 minutes is dedicated to the introduction of the characters and plot- after that there is no real follow up, it's just all action from there on. If not for such a great cast, the film would have not have been so enjoyable.
Overall, a rise in modern film-making which deserves a viewing; although it would be more appreciated if viewed on the cinema screen.

It?s the combination of both comedy and action that makes Hot Fuzz a fantastic film to watch. It's filled with laughs, action and a few scenes of necessary gore, so it?s tailored for a very large and extended audience. From the writers, producers and director that brought you Shaun of the Dead bring you the story about Nick Angel (Simon Pegg), a London cop who is transferred to the sleepy village of Stanford because he is too good and makes every other cop look bad. Here he is partnered up with overeager police officer Danny Butterman (Nick Frost) who believes Nick comes from a world with car chases and gun fights just like in the movies. After a couple of so called ?accidents? occur around the sleepy town, Nick suspects there is a murderer on the loose. However when everyone else disagrees and shrugs them off as accidents Nick must solve the case with the help of Danny.
Hot Fuzz is a pleasantly enjoyable film and guarantees entertainment. The acting in the film is top notch and the script quality is delightfully clever and runs smoothly throughout. Hot Fuzz requires little brain activity which is excellent if you want a movie where you don?t want to do an excessive amount of thinking.
What I loved about the film was how it twisted and turned until the end, so pretty much if you had an idea of who the killer was, I guarantee you?ll get a surprise at the end.
Overall, one of the most enjoyable films of 2007 so far.
Watch if you enjoyed Shaun of the Dead

Better than the first one. We meet new characters without losing touch with the older ones. New storyline is untroduced but there are similarities with the first movie to enable continuity between them.
Great effects and suberb acting.

Not as good as the second, but still a very good movie. A little short in running time.
More characters introduced but failed to ensure old characters still have a vital part. Definately underrated movie that should be appreciated more.

A feel good movie that makes you laugh and simply have a good time. Down to earth storyline and great acting.

This is one of those films that critics rave about and to be honest i can see what they like about it! I absolutely loved this movie. Its a stylish thriller that keeps you hooked from start to end. With twists coming out of all directions its not only engaging but its .......magical.

Great start to the trilogy, great introduction to the characters and awesome storyline!

If you are an enthusiast for the James Bond style of movies this will suit you down to the ground - not that they spend much time on the ground in Casino Royale.
When the last James Bond film came out (Die Another Day in 2002), Pierce Brosnam?s contract had expired and it was time for a new James Bond. After many Rumours, Daniel Craig was announced as the new 007.
In Casino Royale we are introduced to James Bond before he holds his license to kill. Bond's first 007 mission takes him to Uganda where he is to spy on a terrorist, Mollaka. He learns that Mollaka is involved with Le Chiffre, a banker to the world's terrorist organizations. Le Chiffre is planning to raise money in a high-stakes poker game in Montenegro at Le Casino Royale. MI6 assigns 007 to play against him, if Le Chiffre loses, it will destroy his organization. 'M' (Judi Dench) places Bond under the watchful eye of Vesper Lynd (Eva Green).
Now, I?m not a huge fan of James Bond films, however I enjoyed Casino Royale alot. It is unlike the previous James Bond films as it is more stylish, edgy and doesn?t rely too much on the action scenes rather it focus? the emotional responses. Daniel Craig plays a darker, bolder James Bond and quite possibly could be the best variation of the character so far. Judi Dench returns as the trademark character ?M?, while Eva Green plays the typical Bond girl (the one that Bond falls for).
As far as action goes, there isn?t a short supply. There is plenty of action throughout the film, and what is good about it, is that it sticks to reality. Unlike previous James Bond films with invisible cars and such, Casino Royale sticks to the basics.
Watch if you enjoy James Bond Films.

I wasn't interested in watching this movie at all... But i am so glad i got it... The story was really interesting and the acting was also suberb... It's dark atmosphere really helped in the films favour... Don't get put off by the subtitles, you'd be missing out on something extraordinary if u did.

Hailed for his talent and creativity in the action genre, Michael Bay (Pearl Harbor, the Island, Bad Boys 1 & 2) brings you Transformers, a film based upon a TV series and a chain of action figures. Set on planet Earth, we meet Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf) an average teen looking to buy his first car to get 'the girl'. Once picked, Sam goes after the attention of Mikaela (The gorgeous Megan Fox) unaware that his car is in fact 'Bumblebee' - a member of the Heroic Autobots. Once made itself known to Sam; the rest of the Autobots come to earth including the leader Optimus Prime. The Autobots explain that a war between themselves and the evil Decepticons has been re-erupted here on earth and that the fate of our race rests in their hands.
Now I've never seen the TV series nor have I played with the action figures, so my understanding of Autobots and Decepticons is virtually nil. However like most adaptations, Transformers were adequate in filling in the details (and from what I read online- was fairly accurate to the series). As most people expected from the look of the trailers- the films special effects were above extraordinary; it has definitely increased the benchmark for the use of special effects in Hollywood. Just to back up the film- it's not just about a bunch of robots belting each other up. With the help of a diverse cast, Transformers dips into the comedy and drama genres, dishing out a really fun, entertaining, emotional movie that's not just full-on action!
The cast do an exceptional job in working together to pull the film off. We have Jon Voight playing Defence Secretary John Keller, Anthony Anderson playing super hacker Glen Whitmann, Josh Duhamel as Sergeant Lennox, Tyrese Gibson as USAF Tech Sergeant Epps and Aussie girl Rachael Taylor (from Aussie drama Headland) as Computer analyst Maggie Madsen.
Transformers is one of the most humorous, mind-blowing, action-packed films to hit the cinema in a long while. Definite must-see film this year!
Watch if you enjoyed Independence Day.

Great Movie!, Go see the Directors Cut- Even Better

One of the better Australian films i have seen in a good long while. (Or perhaps ever)

With fantastic acting by ford (who manages to match leonardo's role in "What's eating gilbert grape") and the rest of the cast.
It's a deeply complex, yet real character study with the heartfelt drama to only make it so much sweeter.

Highly recommended.

In 2006 we saw the release of the cult film Snakes on a Plane starring Samuel L. Jackson and for anyone that hasn?t seen it; it is literally about Snakes?on a plane! (Surprise, Surprise). Knocked Up follows the same logic in its title. In the film we meet Allison Scott (Katherine Heigl) a behind the scenes crewwoman at E! Entertainment. When told by managers that they want her to become an On-screen personality, she and her sister (Leslie Mann) go out for drinks to celebrate. At the club she meets slacker, party man Ben Stone (Seth Rogen), the two instantly click and as the night progresses they continue dancing and eventually Ben ends up going back to Allison?s place where they continue to 'fool around'. In the morning they part ways, never really expecting to see each other again. However Eight weeks later Allison discovers that she is pregnant (as the title suggests) and contacts Ben again to tell him the news. When Allison decides to keep the baby, the couple decides to give their relationship a chance. But do two opposites really attract?
The laughs are guaranteed in the movie, in the same style as Apatow's the 40 year old Virgin; so sex, drugs and perverted humour are all thrown into the mix. On top of that there is just the complete randomness that follows throughout the film- it is because of this the film, seems so relatable and realistic; it is like it nothing was planned!
The acting in the film was very, very well done. It was Seth Rogen's first time as a lead character and he pulled it off fantastically. The acting worked hand in hand with the script making it even better to watch.
While the praise for the film is indeed very high, it is definitely not for everyone. Knocked Up has the ability to make you cry with laughter, and cringe and moan in disgust. However, when you look beyond the humour it also makes you think about life itself and how you have to enjoy little things in life.
A quote by Paul Rudd?s character just proves that theory; "I wish I could enjoy anything the way my kids enjoy bubbles. Their smiling faces point out my inability to enjoy life."
As we pass the half way mark of the year, Knocked up has become "The best comedy of the year "(so far) and "One of the Best of 2007"
Watch if you enjoyed the 40 year old Virgin.