Two bloated egos destroy great franchise

There's not much more I can add to all the other one-star reviews this pile of hideous, lazy, seen-it-all-before, patronising, idiotic, jumbled, confused garbage so rightly deserved.

All I can say is that it smacks of two bloated giant-sized egos running out of control, Mr Spielberg and Mr Lucas, surrounded by hordes of sycophants and yes-men, with none of them having the balls to say to either of them:"Hang on a minute, boss, this is rubbish!"

But why should they risk being booted out into the Hollywood cold? Do your job, do as Mr S and Mr L says, and you'll always be in work. To hell with the movie-going public! So long as it makes money, who cares?

Is there nobody able to stand up to these rampant egocentric dictators, who have quite literally lost the plot? Don't they care about intelligent or passionate movie goers any more? Is it all about filling two hours with dumb brainrot for gormless low-IQ popcorn munchers?

Sadly it probably is.


FOOTNOTE: Spielberg did a similar thing with The Lost World, when he tagged that preposterous T-Rex-on-the-loose-in-the-city ending on to the film. Nobody had any guts then, to point out it didn't add up, and that it was ever so slightly ridiculous that a giant dinosaur, after wrecking half a city centre, can somehow tiptoe away into some quiet suburb without anybody noticing.

Message to Paramount Pictures - SOMEBODY stand up to Lucas and Spielberg! Just because they hit the target years ago doesn't mean they're going to do it every time! Tell them when they're making a mess! For the sake of all decent movie fans everywhere!

An absolute legend of a film

Right, where to start?! As you can probably tell from the title of this review, I was extremely impressed with this film. As a fan of superheroes in general from a very young age to this day, I was horrified by the absolutely atrocious protrayal of batman by the likes of George Clooney and Val Kilmer. For the most part, I consider these two to be good actors but the script was just sooooo terrible that they could do nothing to make the films any good!
When I heard that Batman Begins was going to return to the comic's dark and gritty roots, it was like a breath of fresh air. Needless to say, I thought Batman Begins was a fantastic film but I must admit that when I heard about the Dark Knight, I doubted it would live up to the standard set by its predecessor. Thankfully, I was wrong as the second installment more than equals Batman Begins.
Bale is brilliant as always as the hero Batman but the true star of the show has to be the late Heath Ledger. Many may think it was all hype but of those of you who haven't seen the film and think it's being exagerated, buy this and see for yourself. I won't ruin too much of the plot but I will say that it is far far darker than anything you may have seen in the genre before. The joy of the batman films is that they can be made serious without them seeming like a mockery, as has been done before with super-hero films. The lack of insane superpowers obviously makes this a much easier feat to achieve as you find yourself believing that it could really happen!
Right, so there's some positive stuff, now for the negative. I have only two gripes with this excellent film:
1) Morgan Freeman and Michael Cain were sadly neglected, which is almost criminal when dealing with actors of their calibre
2) Two-Face only appears in earnest for about 20 mins, which while being understandable considering the presence of the joker and the storyline in general, is a shame because the character was done so very well.

Let's face it, two bad points in a film this long? That's pretty good going!! One more thing as a word of warning: this film as been given a rating of 12. Now, I want to meet the people who did that and get their heads examined. DO NOT let anyone below the age of 15 see this, the sight of Two Face alone will give a 12 year old nightmares for months and he/she will definitely develop a fear of clowns!!

Even if you're not a Comic Book fan this is great

A really good film from start to finish. Even if you are not a comic book fan this is a great film.

Don't take it too seriously, just watch it for what it is.

Barnes a perfect prince

I thought this was a great movie. I grew up in the 80's so I'm a sucker for fantasies. Ben Barnes did an excellent job as Prince Caspian, he definitely has the looks, and he did a good job immatating Mandy Patinkin's accent as the great Inigo Montoya in The Princess Bride. That was a good choice. I'm also glad that Barnes is going to play Dorian Gray in the new Dorian Gray movie, and I got more excited when I found out that Colin Firth was going to play Lord Henry, which is one of the best literary characters of all time. With Colin Firth and Ben Barnes there will be double eye candy in this one, especially in period costume. Anyhoo, back to Narnia. I didn't know that the dvd release in the UK is sooner than when it comes out in the US. It don't come out in the states until Dec. 2 (three days before my birthday). I would really like to see Barnes in more films (especially period films).

If I was to play hide and seek with anyone, I would hope there was a wardrobe involved so I could escape to Narnia and Prince Caspian.

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Lost the plot

I thought Season One and Two were fantastic, and the mystery and lacks of answers was enthralling. However, I felt that Season Three started to go astray, and it just seemed to keep creating crazy questions just to keep us on the edge of our seats. If you felt that about Season Three, then you will continue to be frustrated with this season. Instead of flash-backs, we now have flash-fowards, which seem great, but through the progression of the season, the situation on the island becomes more and more ludicrous. The climax of the season is just completely awful, and proof that all the greatness is Lost (pun intended).

not a real Mummy film

Ok, so it is nothing like the other mummy films. For a start, it lacks the original mummy, imhotep, and in my opinion, Rachel Weisz was irreplaceable. However, the film does not pretend to be anything it isnt, and introduces plenty of humour that will cause an occasional chuckle for those who enjoyed the original films. However, if you want a historically accurate story, look away now, ditto if you want the film to seem even vaguely believable. But despite this, if you ignore these fundamental flaws, as an entertainment it is enjoyable,and especially children will enjoy the fantasy and (somewhat poorly developed)mythical creatures, although it was too removed from the originals for my liking.

I loved this film!

I wasn't much of a James Bond fan before Daniel Craig took the role (unsurprisingly!) but when I saw Casino Royale in the cinema I was completely hooked. I loved everything about the film but Daniel Craig's screen presence was the main pull for me, he is just so sexy! I've since watched the film again on dvd, feel exactly the same way, and I'm seeing Quantum of Solace on it's opening night this Friday .... can't wait!

It's average, nothing more or less

One star and five star reviews for this film should be laughed at, as you will many great moments in the first half of this film.

At some point the laughs had to run out, there is only so much script in an alcoholic super hero.

When that happens and the plot twist occurs, which many will see coming, you've just got to enjoy looking at the tunning Charlize Theron and patiently await the end of the film.

Worth naming Star Wars Episode 7, or just disappointing?

Star Wars: The Clone Wars is an 1hr 1/2 long movie which is set to mark the beginning of a brand new series airing on Cartoon Network. I can't watch the series for some reason but it isn't airing here where I live but I have been to the cinema to see the film and I was impressed. The beginning of the film where they are fighting in a large city is incredible as is the raid on the monastery but when Anakin and Ahsoka arrive on Tatooine, I fought it was a bit over-the-top but never mind.
The film itself is good and snappy, action-filled without the romantic bits of Episode II and the long boring conversations of the first half of Episode III, this film is excellent!

Silly But Fun Fantasy

I liked it. Silly fun fantasy with a deliciously evil Michelle Pfeiffer as a no good meanie heart chomping witch. Good stuff.

Fantastic if you can get over the lack of story

While the film's story misses the mark, its visuals prove that Spielberg hasn't lost his touch as a director. Visually, the Blu-ray transfer remains consistently high-quality - vibrant colours, strong detail, little additional grain or distortion. There is a small amount of noticeable digitization, and while the detail never gets quite a sharp as one might like, the CG sequences - such as the jungle and waterfall scenes, or any moment in the last fifteen minutes - come across the best. They're well-integrated into the image, clear and crisp without being overly so.

The Dolby TruHD track is a high-volume, larger-than-life experience. The complex, layered sound design of this film is an ideal showcase for this kind of technology. With sound effects provided by audio wizard Ben Burtt and that familiar, soaring score by John Williams, you want to hear every single element with clarity, and you do. There's a lot of movement in the field from all sides, so gunshots seem to zoom right past you and explosions erupt from all around. The essential car chases and fights are lively, but not too crowded. The dialogue is clear throughout the action and if the standard-def transfer was near-perfect, this transfer is downright perfection.

This Blu-ray release offers the same set of extras provided on the two-disc standard-def version, though each of the carry-overs are presented here in HD.

If there's one word to describe this collection of features it would be thorough. Every step of the filmmaking process has been documented, from the origin of the idea to post production, with a plethora of interviews and footage to illustrate the journey. Although Spielberg remains a staunch holdout among directors who refuse to participate in audio commentary, it's hard to imagine that it would give any further insight beyond what is already provided in the supplemental material.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull may not have lived up to the hype, but it was clearly a labour of love for all involved, and this release shows all the work that went into making it. It's just too bad the same amount of work didn't go into the writing.

Why purchase the Latest iPods? Get it here for literally pennies

Xmas is coming, Why purchase something you can get for practically a piggy banks worth ?

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reg-ister and s|ign onto the no commitments D|V|D R|ental promo

They'll send your ipod touch straight to you,

Have a Gratis Christmas :)
Enjoy!

good film good blu-ray transfer

bought this on blu-ray today, haddn't seen the film before but am pleased I got it, really good action flick, not to be taken to seriously and as long as you watch the film with this in mind you will like it.

The blu-ray transfer is good.. I don't think it is as good as some people are saying, but still, Its not a bad transfer by any means and hopefully now blu-ray is becoming more mainstream we will see the end to lousey transfers alltogether :)

Excellent

Not usually one for war movies/dramas, but this was so well produced. Didn't catch the TV series, but glad to have found this on DVD - and at such a great price!

A welcome surprise.

By early 2008 I was thoroughly sick of superhero movies.
I've long despaired of Hollywood's tendency to take the premise of a well-made and successful film ('X-Men' and 'Spider-Man' in this case) and then rehash it over and over until all quality and originality is drained from the genre ('X-Men 3' and 'Spider-Man 3').
So, despite being a comic book fan, I wasn't going to watch 'Iron Man'.

However, when I found myself at the cinema and my choices were this or one of six romantic comedies I opted for the superhero movie. It was the best cinema-based decision I made this year (the worst was watching 'The Clone Wars'!)

'Iron Man' has the perfect mix of action, special effects, storyline and humour. At no time does any of the these things overpower the others or sit awkwardly alongside them (as special effects and story so often do).
Perhaps the best element is that the characters here are given genuine depth and development, with the actors involved delivering perfectly pitched performances.
But, alliteration aside, it is Robert Downey Jnr. who truly steals the show with his touching and believable portrayal of a womanising alcoholic who is faced first by violence, then by disability and finally by a crisis of conscience. Gwyneth Paltrow also puts in a notable performance as the unfortunately named Pepper Potts, providing both a counterpoint to Downey Jnr. and a bit of sexual tension.

Definitely the best comic book based movie of the last couple of years, 'Iron Man' is worth a couple of hours of anyone's time.
(Also, be prepared to fall in love with a fire-extinquishing robot... you'll see...)

Memories and future excitement!

I was seven when Star Wars first came out in the cinema, and ever since, a full 31 years, I have been hooked on the films. Now I introduce my son to them, and yaaay! Here we go again! All the memories flood back, and there is his newfound excitement adding to my enjoyment of what had to be one of the best ever trilogies put up on the big screen.

It isn't just the movies, but having the option to watch either the digitally remastered version, or the older version that I remember better, is a great thing. From the special effects, to the fantastic cast, the scene setting opening credits, with that amazing musical sound track, the weird and wonderful aliens, right through to the pithy relationship of Leia and Han, these were truly fantastic movies, and should be in everyone's collection. Not just for the now, and those of us who remember them originally, but for the future, when we can delight in introducing others to the eternal fight of good against evil, and the story of determination, love, and hope that these movies represent.

Now, where did I leave my popcorn...

It's a game of two halves...

There is little doubt to me that the 1st Half of I am Legend is quite excellent. Set in New York City devoid of life and apparently lifeless it is eerie to see the City that never sleeps so empty. I enjoyed some of the camera work as well. A city that has clearly been left for nature to reclaim was very well done. However, despite appearances there is hope - one man remains - Robert Neville. Neville is played by Will Smith. A brilliant scientist who is somehow immune to the man made virus that has killed millions if not billions and mutated some of those infected into zombies that only come out at night. Neville has turned is home into a fortress as well as a lab. He works hard to acquire a cure. But he is efforts appear in vain. His conversations with the dummies at the video store show how Neville is beginning to suffer with his loneliness. He may have Sam a loyal canine companion but its human contact that Neville is desperate for. At night Neville is essentially in hiding in what is apparently a normal house - it is actually a fortress and he is armed to the teeth. He needs to be though as those zombies are super strong. The promise of excellence then disappears after a tragic loss. Neville becomes enraged and the film loses its appeal. By this time you will want to watch until the very end but it essentially becomes a bit of a joke and bit of let down. The premise was actually very good and the first 50 minutes or so quite superb but I am Legend suddenly loses its identity and the film loses its appeal. I have seen the highly critical reviews and can understand them but I am Legend isn't all bad. Will Smith was impressive in my view and he carried off the role well. He had the presence to occupy the screen and it must be said his relationship with Sam the dog was clearly mutual! I am Legend should have probably lasted for another 30 minutes to give us a better finish. Still, despite this it is worth a look.

Fantastic

Well I thought this film had a fantastic story line and full of energy. Can not wait for the follow up!

The Greatest Action Films of All Time

Raiders of the Lost Ark

For all the criticisms George Lucas has received in recent times, we must remember that he did manage to come up with this gem of an idea for a perfect action film, and in doing so he created one of the most iconic action hero's that cinema has ever seen. A role perfectly played by its star, Harrison Ford.
The script, written by Lawrence Kasdan, is expertly directed by Steven Spielberg, who by this stage of his career was firing on all cylinders. He takes Kasdan's script and perfectly balances the dialogue with the action creating a finely tuned fast paced action film.
The opening scene and the `Truck Scene' showcase Spielberg's uncanny ability to create stunning set pieces within his movies. This is something that really sets him apart from other directors, and makes Raiders of the Lost Ark not just one of the best action films of the 80' but one of the finest action films of all time.


Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom

Second time round for Indy and in my opinion the weakest of the four movies.
At the request of George Lucas, scriptwriters Willard Huyck & Gloria Katz turned in a far darker and more foreboding script than the previous movie. George felt that the second film should be a lot darker, following in a similar vein to the second Star Wars film, `The Empire Strikes Back'.
With a lot of script ideas left over from `Raiders' the film certainly wasn't short on creativity or action set pieces. But, it seems Spielberg wasn't entirely comfortable with the direction George had decided to take the franchise. Dealing with a lot of the darkness Spielberg wisely injected a lot more humour into the script, of which is handled very well by performers Ford and Ke Huy Quan, who have some very amusing scenes together. Kate Capshaw's performance as Willie Scott is routinely criticised. admittedly there is a lot of screaming, but in my opinion I feel she gives a well balanced performance that doesn't really detract from the other actors, or from the actual film.

My main criticism is that a great deal of the movie is spent within the Temple itself and I felt the film could have benefited had they made more out our hero's escape. I'm every bit as grateful as our intrepid action hero to see daylight after so many hours spent in the doom and gloom.

Although this is the weakest film in the cannon it still remains a thoroughly enjoyable and exciting action epic, knocking spots of any imitators to the throne. Proving that even Spielberg on a bad day is better than most directors on a good day.


Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

Perfectly balanced sequel, with some fine comedy.
This remains my favourite Indy sequel/prequel. Spielberg gets a firm grip on the reins and delivers what are to some, the finest of the Indiana Jones films.
The real genius of this sequel lies in the addition of Sean Connery playing Indy's Father. It works well and provides some great on screen chemistry, creating some fine comedic moments between Ford and Connery. Harrison pulls faces and shrugs shoulders as his dad continually undermines him. I have always felt that Harrison Ford's comic ability is greatly underappreciated, and it should also be noted that Ford is one of cinema's finest physical actors, reacting to kicks and punches like no other actor, and in doing so adds tension and excitement to one of the films most exciting set pieces, the `Tank Scene'.


Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

Nineteen years in the making and five different screenwriters that had Ford, Spielberg and Lucas all banging heads trying to agree on the films overall direction. Was it worth the wait? Well in my opinion, it was indeed!

I found the opening sequence thoroughly exciting, and after Raiders, it remains the best opening sequence of the franchise. There have been criticisms of the flying fridge scene, and although it is 'over the top', it is by no means anymore unrealistic than Indy leaping out of a plane on a life raft, or a mine cart jumping thirty foot over the breaks in the tracks and landing perfectly on the other side.

Harrison Ford, although grey haired and obviously older, manages to deliver a spot on performance as the ageing Indiana. Only on the removal of his hat do you remember that this is a man in his sixty's. Shia LaBeouf on the other hand fails to shine and only fulfils his role adequately. Ray Winstone's character feels underdeveloped and the film misses out on what could have been a great performance. Karen Allen reprises her role as Marion Ravenwood and lights up the screen with her arrival. John Hurt is wasted and Cate Blanchett delivers nothing more than a two dimensional performance.

The negatives aside, the film is exciting, intriguing, and highly enjoyable. The two hour running time just flew by. My only criticism is that the `Jungle Chase' could of done with a little less CGI, and that overall, the film could of done with just one more action scene.

I feel the majority of the criticism aimed at this movie is completely unjustified. Spielberg, Lucas and Ford have delivered a fine movie and a worthy addition to the Indy franchise.