The Girl On Fire: Review of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part One

Director: Francis Lawrence

By Alex Watson

So now Suzanne Collins' beloved Hunger Games Trilogy novels begins to come full circle. Thus far Katniss Everdeen has proven to be a fearless yet real heroine that the big screen has been calling out for. After the success of the previous installment Catching Fire, director Francis Lawrence again returns for this two part finale. Fans are sure to be kept waiting on tenterhooks as we await the final outcome in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay: Part One.

After the devastating consequences of Catching Fire, Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and her family are now living among rebels in District 13, run by President Alma Coin (Julianne Moore). While Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) is being kept prisoner in Panem by villainous President Snow (Donald Sutherland). Eager to seek justice for the tyranny caused, Katniss agrees to be the rebels 'Mockingjay' and the face of the upcoming revolution!

While it is very well acted, stylish and entertaining as normal, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part One cannot escape the fact that it just feels like a filler before the big event! Going for the same two part format as Harry Potter, this installment feels more like the business end of the spectrum and the characters we love are not given any potential room to breathe. Set mainly in the District 13 underground, this confined space makes Francis Lawrence's film suffers from a lack of thrills.

Early on there are some memorable moment such as an exciting air raid sequence on an unarmed hospital. More moments like this could have raised the movies game further. There are moments of unexpected comedy such as Plutarch Heavensbee's (Philip Seymour Hoffman) roaring frustration behind the special effect desk during his first attempts at filming Katniss' propaganda clips. But these brief flurries are only blips on the radar and before long the lengthy and talky sequences underground begin to stifle us!

Katniss is still appealing as a character and it is through her that the movies mainly qualities come to light. Forced to play the role of reluctant idol, her trips above ground provide a real eye opener for her. As she witnesses the ruins of her old district, we are shown what is essentially a mass bone yard of bodies! Her pain and anguish are potent here and she continually witnesses the violent injustice of Snow's empire, we feel every ounce of her venom pouring into the speeches she is forced to film! 

Jennifer Lawrence has been the main credit for the appeal of Katniss and once again she delivers in Mockingjay Part One. Demonstrating her great human touch along with her tough rebellious streak, Lawrence is the driving force once more and you can see exactly why her character appeals to rebels she is sworn to protect. One of the finest actresses on the planet currently, it is unbelievable to think that she isn't yet at the peak of her powers!

Philip Seymour Hoffman reminds us what a great talent he was before his tragic death earlier this year (the film is dedicated to his memory). Julianne Moore makes a decent but not unmissable presence as Alma Coin and seems to spend the majority of her time making grand speech. Donald Sutherland in only a few scenes still makes for an icy and bold villain as President Snow and his casting has proven inspired.

While Part Two might be the cherry on top of the flaming cake, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part One just isn't satisfying in the way that we would hope. It will leave die hard fans counting the days until the true finale appears, but to others it will just seem like a disappointing starter to a more meatier main course. 

Top 5 Modern TV Opening Sequences

Breaking Bad

Lasting less than 20 seconds, the title sequence to Breaking Bad is a masterclass in short and effective. The moment we see the swirling yellow smoke, the dark music that follows has set the tone for five seasons of unmissable TV!

True Detective

By far 2014's best opening credits work. Designed by studio Elastic, this unforgettable imagery becomes more apparent as the series deepens. Accurately foreshadowing the events, people and life changing experiences that will later effect detectives Rust Kohle (Mattthew McConaughey) and Martin Hart (Woody Harrelson). All the while it simultaneously capturing the mythical feel of a Louisiana land where it seems God has long since departed in the gritty drama. 


Damages

Sound-tracked to 'When I Am Through With You' by VLA, the legal world that is ruled with an iron fist by Patty Hewes (Glenn Close) comes to life. Fitting in some the pillars of the legal world including 'The Glory of Commerce' and 'Civic Fame' above the Manhattan Municipal Building, it shows in the world of the law, the administration of justice can be a dangerous thing. It also fits in with Patty's persona because when she is through with you "there won't be anything left"

House of Cards

Spanning the playground of politician Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey, the shows tense and some times audacious tone comes full circle. At first seeming just random locations such at the Capitol Building, Nationals Park and the Kennedy Centre. But apparently if you look deeper there is more meaning to it, read this fine article by Phil Edwards to understand further! Either way it is an eye grabbing start to the Netflix drama!

Boardwalk Empire 

Set against 'Straight Up and Down' by Brian Jonestown Massacre, we have one of HBO's finest efforts of recent times. Witnessing Nucky Thompson (Steve Buscemi) standing on a beach, suddenly we see thousands of whiskey bottles wash ashore. His profitable but occasionally underhanded enterprise is brought forward instantly and the corrupt theme of Martin Scorsese and Mark Wahlberg's excellent five seasons is set in stone.

A Beautiful Mind: Review of The Theory of Everything

The Theory of Everything

Director: James Marsh

By Alex Watson

Stephen Hawking is without question one of the great minds in history. His book 'A Brief History of Time' changed how we each think about the universe and time itself. Not only that, but he has been a great fighter and has achieved so much whilst under going a lifelong battle with Motor Neurone Disease. But what do we really know of the man himself? This week British director, James Marsh brings us an up close look at how the man came to be in his emotionally enthralling biopic The Theory of Everything.

Young Cambridge student Stephen Hawking (Eddie Redmayne) is undertaking a doctorate in Physics. While studying he begins a whirlwind romance with fellow student Jane Wild (Felicity Jones) and embarks on a radical studying involving time. But a crushing blow is dealt when he is diagnosed with motor neurone disease and only given a short time to live! Refusing to let life slip away, Hawking will put a bold fight and continue to climb mountains while his body deteriorates.

The Theory of Everything is a poignant and fitting tribute to the legacy of Hawking and effectively captures his never say die spirit! Starting as almost a charming romantic tale, the brilliant but social awkward Stephen romances Jane at a dance whilst giving an eloquent a speech about how Tide washing powder makes the men's shirts glow under the lights. Events have a cute and magnetic feeling to them and this slightly mismatched pair make our hearts glow. However, the moment Hawking takes a life changing tumble to the ground- the diagnosis is one that essentially leaves him a prisoner in his own body.

Marsh from this point documents his struggle magnificently and the strain of his declining health is shared by both parties. The crushing pain that Hawking experiences when he believed his life was coming to an end is heartbreaking. His refusal to throw in the towel though, becomes the movie's principle strength. This story is no fairy tale by any means, while Stephen is continuing to achieve brilliance is spite of his body and speech failing, Jane is bearing the brunt of the pressure and her own life goals take a back seat to caring. In the presence of this sometimes difficult man, we find ourselves wondering if this life would have been any different with Hawking in full health?

Throughout The Theory of Everything, Hawking is not fully absolved from any blame because his success alienates him from the people he cares for most. The movie does wonderfully capture his unique sense of humour and how even in the hardest times, Hawking was able to crack a smile. One memorable scene sees him saying 'Exterminate' in his new computer voice! Even without when his voice is eventually lost, the man still resolves to be heard. There may be a lack of scientific talk, but Marsh's movie isn't focuses on celebrating his achievements, it is far more interested in a life less ordinary.

But the principle strength of this film comes from an astounding performance from Eddie Redmayne as Stephen Hawking. Playing the man from start to finish, Redmayne gives a performance that although physical demanding is one that uncovers side to Hawking that many didn't existed! The single most impressive feature of this remarkable turn is Redmayne's ability to express emotion through only facial expressions. Now a firm contender for big awards, the man has now arrived on the world stage! Felicity Jones also stakes her own claim with a heart stealing support turn as Jane. Throughout she matches Redmayne for strength and does a good job of showing the cracks appearing despite her undying love!

Also look out for great supporting turns from the ever reliable David Thewlis and a greatly repressed turn from Boardwalk Empire's Charlie Cox.

Finally the film world has a depiction of Stephen Hawking's life that is one to savour! The Theory of Everything is an emotional roller-coaster that refuses to let you off until the films conclusion! Expect acting nominations for the centre pair because they are thoroughly deserved.

This Charming Man: Review of St Vincent

St Vincent

Director: Theodore Melfi

By Alex Watson

Bill Murray is undoubtedly a favourite of many movie lovers and it is always easy to see why! His easy going charm and natural comedic talents succeed in raising potentially unlike-able characters to a level that is hilarious. After winning over audiences at TIFF (where it gained runner up in the People's Choice Award), his latest film, St Vincent could well see him turn on his finest performances in years gone by. Prepare for immense cursing, drinking and visits from a 'Lady of the Night'.

Vincent MacKenna (Bill Murray) is a broke, foul mouthed, gambling, heavy drinking old man who hates everything and everyone around him (a compliment that is swiftly repaid). But when his new neighbour Maggie (Melissa McCarthy) moves in, he is forced to bond with her shy young son Oliver (Jaeden Lieberher). Together the pair begin to change to each other in different ways, but not all them good ones.

St Vincent is certain to delight lovers of Bill Murray cinema, because first time writer- director Theodore Melfi's film is a wonderfully unorthodox and shocking laugh fest which is impossible to dislike. The most impressive quality to this film, is just how lovable Vincent is even in spite of his numerous flaws. From the moment we meet him, he  drunkenly runs over his own fence, then moments later he falls over and passes out. The next day he then hilariously accuses his newly arrived neighbour of doing the deed!

There is no doubt over what a bad influence Vincent is on all who meet him. Maggie reluctantly leaves her son Oliver in his care despite her major concerns. His idea of bonding constitutes going to horse races and him meeting Russian hooker Daka (Naomi Watts). But in the fact of what could have been a scaring encounter, Vincent begins teaching Oliver life lessons that broaden his character and make him a tougher person. When asked to do a school project about Saints- he begins learn that Saints do live among us in the world, just sometimes you have to look beyond the layers of rubble!

But unusually for a first time film maker, Theodore Melfi brings a highly accomplished feel to St Vincent. Alongside the laughs is a dominant emotional core as Vincent's true life intentions are revealed. Throughout, this man is at other end of the financial spectrum and is always hustling to make bucks wherever he can! However, witnessing him care for his sick wife strikes a cord hard and suddenly his money making schemes become less dubious. At heart Vincent is a good man with honest intentions, he is just to lost inside himself to notice.

Only Bill Murray could have played Vincent and he effortlessly brings this cantankerous old man to life! Melfi has written the character that Murray fans have been waiting for and thanks to his physical comedy, he reminds just how funny he can be. He may notoriously selective and is known for not being the easiest star to reach- but when Bill believes in your project then he will give things his all and it shows in his performance here.

Jaeden Lieberher makes for a great new star and alongside Murray, the pair share a great chemistry that makes the film tick. His character throughout is one that is drawn to the risk that Vincent poses and Lieberher raises his game in the films latter stages to give a performance that rivals Murray's. Melissa McCarthy is given an almost straight role by her standards but impressives nonetheless in the less wacky role. Her worried face throughout is rightly justified and you can't help but share her fears over what will come next?

St Vincent is one the most original yet heart tugging comedies of this year and Bill Murray fans will no doubt go away feeling delighted. The man may not always grace our screens, but we are always delighted when he does!

This New Day: Review of Before I Go To Sleep

Before I Go To Sleep

Director: Rowan Joffe

By Alex Watson

It is unimaginable to consider forgetting your entire life, the loving memories of people that we have known over time are the ones we treasure most. This idea has been explored in cinema before as individual attempt to piece their existence back to together. Rowan Joffe this week gives us his demonstration of a woman attempting to shape her memory once again but forever finding horrific clues in his adaptation of S. J. Watson's novel Before I Go To Sleep.

Since a terrible accident 10 years previously, each morning Christine Lucas (Nicole Kidman) wakes up with no memories of her prior life and has to be reminded by her husband Ben (Colin Firth) of the last decade. But one morning she gets a call from neurosurgeon Dr Nasch (Mark Strong) who has apparently been treating her. Slowly Christine begins to realize that her past maybe more surrounded in secrecy than she realizes.

Before I Go To Sleep is a thriller than despite some neat visual touches by director Rowan Joffe fails to break any new ground. This whole idea of amnesia and someone having to patch the cracks together has been done to death before, Joffe's strives to be better than its finished product- but you can't escape that this is more or less an British attempt at making the new Memento! Initially the mounting suspicions provide some decent early tension, but this soon dissolves into your standard friday night thriller.

From the outset there is a lack of suspense surrounding events and neither Joffe or the talented cast can ignite the spark that is badly needed. Each morning when Christine's memory empties yet again, we do wonder what each new day will bring as the clues become more ominous. As a central character, Christine is a vulnerable and lovable soul, but she is also a rather bland one that fails to raise any kind of significant characterization. Her husband Ben and the seemingly well intentioned Dr Nasch make for interesting male sparring partners and provide some nervous yet loving moments.

Sadly even though the guessing game is at times a moderately entertaining one, Before I Go To Sleep can't recover what is undoubtedly a predictable and rather flat conclusion. After coming on this journey we are given the ending that in our minds we probably guessed from the moment that she woke up! Joffe is a talented director and is showing signs of his father Roland's early promise but he will need to raise his game about average thrillers like this to be effective.

Nicole Kidman's performance is one firing element of the movie and as Christine she brings about a great sense of fragility. With her crystal blue and permanently suspecting eyes, Kidman demonstrates her ability to elevate beige characters to an acceptable level. Colin Firth and Mark Strong are both compelling in their roles but are not given nearly enough decent material to work with. Strong in particular is stranded as the confidante and is required to do little other than sound reassuring throughout.

Sadly despite its yearning to be something outside the box, Before I Go To Sleep is left with a distinctly ordinary feeling to it. Joffe may one day pull something remarkable out of the hat, but it will not be with this piece.

Through Space & Time: Review of Interstellar

Interstellar

Director: Christopher Nolan

By Alex Watson

When a Chris Nolan films rolls around you can always guarantee one thing for sure, this will be no ordinary experience. Continually over the past decade, the British visionary has made our minds bend in more ways than one. But his plots are always a closely guarded secret and when unveiled to us we are forever left either amazed or dumbfounded by what we have witnessed! This week he tackles space exploration and a mission that may just save the human race. Prepare for all kinds of theories, calculations and inspiring visuals in Interstellar.


In the future, the earth is slowly dying due to a lack of food resources, so to save its existence former astronaut Cooper (Matthew McConaughey) along with Dr Amelia Brand (Anne Hathaway) and Boyle (Wes Bentley) are sent through the universe on a deep space mission. Through this they must navigate a worm hole that may or may not lead them to a system that can sustain the survival of the human race.

Interstellar again proves that Christopher Nolan is a director at the top of his game and this proves to be an eye opening and thought provoking look at not only what exists in the universe, but humanities instinct for survival. As we open on the dusty and deprived earth, we view humanity virtually forced down onto its knees. Cooper proves to be one of Nolan's strongest leads as we see him as a conflicted former pilot who is being forced into playing reluctant hero on a mission that may not see him return! The emotional depth of Cooper gives his early relationship with his 10 year old daughter Murph (Mackenzie Foy) gives the film a beating heart and as watch him drive away teary eyed- we pray for his safe return.

Although slow starting, midway through the film smartly shifts into overdrive and the visual presented to us are remarkable. The impressive CG by Hoyte Van Hoytema show us the great unknown which includes a planet surrounded by gigantic rolling waves, which will play a key role in the events of the mission! But perhaps the smartest element to this whole equation is that the universe is filled with unknown dangers and even the slightest error could result in several years being lost! Tough decisions allow the characters to reveal their true colours and at points battle of wills surface, often to heart stopping effect. Professor Brand's (Michael Caine) quoting of 'Do Not Go Gentle into that Good Night' by Dylan Thomas effectively sums up the human spirit and its determination.

But the centre of Interstellar is all about the relationship between father and daughter. Murph is a no ordinary child and Cooper has encouraged her all her life to think outside the box. As older Murph (Jessica Chastain) appears, her initial anger and betrayal him leaving transcends into love and desire to see her father again and this gives her brains she never knew. However it is watching Cooper's pain filled face as he watches the 20 years of un-viewed messages from his children that hit home with such a hard and raw agony.

Even though Nolan's film is a visual masterpiece, its content and ideas may prove to be too heavy going for fair weather film fans. Never one to shy away from smart film making, Christopher and Jonathan Nolan give us a script that is so packed full of physics and morality that it feels as if we are being given a lecture rather than cinematic piece. The final act will firmly divide viewers as we cross through the dimensions of space, black holes to arriving into a destination that will surprise along with frustrating many. But unlike his other pieces, this proves to be Nolan's most heart pouring and genuine pieces.

Matthew McConaughey is an excellent lead choice and after his brillance in Dallas Buyers Club, he shows that he anchored a blockbuster well. Demonstrating a great human touch to his character, Cooper goes down as one of the more emotionally real characters of 2014 and is played with such potent power that he appeals to us from a very early stage. Anne Hathaway is also impressive as the smart yet soulful Dr Brand. But it is Jessica Chastain who firmly claims the supporting ranks with a brief yet impressive turn as the older Murph that captures our hearts.

Interstellar is an impressive and bold blockbuster, but the weight of its own intellect makes the film crumble slightly and we are left afterwards with our minds still traveling at light speed! But it is no less impressive and on a visual scale this is unlikely to be beaten in 2014. Christopher Nolan is a director who will always be challenging his audience, best to start reading for our next encounter!

Why Hollywood Needs More Train Disaster Movies

Who doesn't enjoy a couple of hours of big and silly action? Well some people probably... but the rest of us who sometimes like to disengage our brain and enjoy are always right at home with a train disaster film. What makes this kind of movie so great is that there is always an against the clock feel that pushes the story along. For those of us who grew up with Thomas the Tank Engine and his group of other talking friends (before CG ruined it!) we are accustomed to things going wrong on the rails.

Sadly this type of film is only seldom seen these days, which is a shame because it makes for a explosive feel as a pair of brave men struggle to keep the old girl on the rails. Here are some examples of what makes this genre so great.

Runaway Train (1985) 

Under the stewardship of Russian director Andrei Konchalovsky, this 1980's effort still ranks as one of the most under-rated and thrilling action movies of the decade. The story revolves around notorious and violent criminal Manny (Jon Voight) escaping jail along with naive accomplice Buck (Eric Roberts). When they board a departing train, all seemed to set succeed only the old engine pops his clogs immediately upon departure- with no way of stopping the train! The impending disaster succeeds in elevating our sympathy for this pair of unlikeable characters and until the bitter end we are sat tensely in our seat.

Unstoppable (2010) 

One of the final movies of the well loved Tony Scott's careers, this movie saw thrills and spills by the bucket load. When a reckless rail employee (Ethan Suplee) lets a 39 car train speed onto the main line, it is left up to veteran engineer Frank Barnes (Denzel Washington) and newbie conductor Will Coulson (Chris Pine) to chase it down before it heads for disaster! Ridley's brother never always wowed critics, but his movies always provided get actions and this effort was one his fans could be proud of, particularly the closing stages as Engine 1206 speeds off in reverse to prevent lives from  being taken.

Bridge on the River Kwai (1957) 

While not strictly a train disaster movie, David Lean's classic movie is essential a big countdown clock until the major event. The allies are planning to blow up the bridge that the conflicted British officer Colonel Nicholson (Alec Guinness) has toiled to build. The moments before the explosion hits are still heart stopping to this day as all manner of unseen obstacles seem to get in the way. But the demolition sequence is still a visual wonder and as we see the engine plummet to earth, you still have the urge to cheer loudly! And to think... the production team spent 8 months building it!