Hawaiian Tropic: Review of Aloha

Aloha

Director: Cameron Crowe

By Alex Watson

Despite a starry cast, Cameron Crowe's Aloha is a very misguided affair. There is a bright and upbeat tone from the beginning, but this proves to be a burden on the film as we have no real idea exactly what type of film Crowe is trying to make? His usual quirks are very much present, but lack the needed punch to get this film kick started into life. Yes the central trio of characters are very attractive and charming, but they fail to add any real any real depth to characterization.

Brian Gilchrist (Bradley Cooper) is a former Air Force turned civilian contractor who nearly lost his life in Afghanistan. To prove himself, he is given a second shot by billionaire, Carson Welch (Bill Murrary) in his old ground of Hawaii. While home, he reconnects with his old flame, Tracey (Rachel McAdams who has since married and started a family. But soon he begins to fall for rising officer, Captain Allison Ng (Emma Stone). Life altering decisions lie ahead.

The principle issue with Aloha is these lost soul stories are beginning to feel all too familiar from Cameron Crowe. Unlike his earlier work, Crowe is unable to find the right spark to ignite the film. The overly nice feel that surrounds events goes into overload early on and fails to cut the thrusters! Everyone on this island is so forgiving of everything that it lacks any sense of pain, regrets or conflict. Tracey and Brian have history and while there are close ups galore which reveal the hurt lurking below, it never truly grabs at us like it should. Before long, we feel like leaving the party and just leaving them to it.

Centrally, due a confusing style of dialogue and some lack of explanation, the story gets lost in a haze. We know that Brian was once a rising star but due to some unfortunate events, his life lies in ruins. There are red herrings given to what might have caused this, but the closure needed is one that continually disappoints. This is not the only story related problem the movie is saddled with, for instance why doesn't Tracy husband Woody (John Krasinski) ever talk? And precisely why does Carson want to launch his new suspicious looking satellite? The answer are all present, but due to Crowe's slightly muddled presentation they are lost on the Hawaiian breeze!

Though there is an air of redemption hanging around, it feels far too cliched! The main romance between Brian and Allison is one that is cute and sweet, although suffering with some awful dialogue. But we never really get a sense of just why Brian is worthy of redemption? His cynical outlook  to the world is a real mystery. Even though he innocently flutters his pretty eyes throughout, is it not enough to make him an engaging central character. Had this been made a decade ago, this would have been a perfect Crowe flick, but today it just feels substandard.

Bradley Cooper sadly in this film is not given a character worthy of his talents. Proving to be one of the most absorbing presences in Hollywood, Brian is very much a blank page and he is given little to work with to fill it. Also for this type of role, he doesn't feel downtrodden enough to convince. Perhaps someone with more grit could have shaped this differently? Emma Stone is the real treat of Crowe's film sporting enough peppy charm as the fast talking Allison to make her stand out. Always able to seem effortlessly engrossing, Stone is very much a talent on the rise. The usually consistent Rachel McAdams however, is stranded in a one note role as Tracey.

Aloha may not be the worse film that you see all year, but it is a far cry from the Cameron Crowe of old! Constantly feeling more saccharine than a lollypop, the movie doesn't seem to know where this is a comedy, a drama or maybe both? Though if you're in the mood for a wallow then this may suit you just fine!

Great Movie Coaches

Gordon Bombay (Emilo Estevez- The Mighty Ducks)

A former peewee hockey prodigy turned big time drunken lawyer, coach Bombay was possible the only man in Minnesota who could relate to his misfit team. Sporting not only a fierce desire to turn this team around, coach Bombay also made sure everyone was having fun doing so! Only a coach like Gordon could have made naming his team after a Duck seem cool!

Lou Brown (James Gammon- Major League)

A grouchy old timer of the minor leagues, Lou Brown was brought to the Cleveland Indians to ensure they finished last. But instead he completely failed and instead united his horrifically mismatched team. His lack of favour towards the fancy side of the game, which includes pissing on players contracts. Brown is very much the old fashion, no gimmicks coach, but his rigid style sets the Indians on a hot streak.

Herb Brooks (Kurt Russell- Miracle)

Based on the real life coach of the 1980 US Olympic Hockey Team, Kurt Russell brought to life on of hockey's great figures. Brooks is a man who wants the best out of his team and will drill them hard no matter what the cost. Just watching him repeatedly making his team skate up and down the ice as punishment for blowing an easy game pushes this point home! But his coaching style will come in handy in their crunch game against the USSR.

Norman Dale (Gene Hackman- Hoosiers)

A passionate but controversial coach, Norman Dale as coach of Hickory Basketball is a man on his last chance. His confrontational style sees him ejected from more than one game and tests the town's patience. But he is also deeply committed and very humane, his giving a chance to town drunk Shooter (Dennis Hooper) demonstrates he belief in redemption! He may have blown his big shot, but this one is one chance he will not miss.

Herman Boone (Denzel Washington-Remember The Titans)

As a coach not only dealing with a town with heavy tension, but also a team divided by race. Herman Boone has his work cut out for him. But against all odds, he finds a rhythm in which to connect with his team and they learn that by working together, great things happen. However, his team are not the only worry he has as T.C Williams High School old boys seems more interested in the team failing!

Way of The Future: Review of Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland

Director: Brad Bird

By Alex Watson

So what exactly is Tomorrowland? That is the answer that movie fans have been seeking ever since the first teaser trailer hit. Well director, Brad Bird has brought us into a fascinating and visually arresting world. Along with co-writer Damon Lindelof, the story we are given is one that is funny and packed with interesting and provoking thoughts. Based against the theme of time, we are left to wonder what lies beyond in other dimensions. But importantly it poses some insightful theories of the future of humanity!

When teenager Casey (Britt Robertson) receives a strange button, she is briefly transported to another world called Tomorrowland, which is far different from her own. From this encounter, she will find herself coming into contact with teenage 'recruiter' Athena (Raffrey Cassidy) and a grouchy old scientist called Frank (George Clooney) who may just hold the key that they need to return to this land of wonder.

Capturing a rare sense of childhood wonder, Brad Bird succeeds in early on drawing the audience's attention and refuses to let it go. Beginning in 1964, when a young Frank makes a life changing visit to the 1964 World Fair, he is soon transported to Tomorrowland. Here is sets him up on a life changing encounter with leader David Nix (Hugh Laurie). But for reasons unknown we learn that he has been exiled from the world and has since shut himself away. By denying the world his knowledge, things are beginning to look bleak and a myserious countdown clock is constantly ticking. Casey in some sense, is the child that Frank was many moons ago. One who still believes in the possibility of the world improving and still feels wonder about what she is able to see.

All throughout this picture, there is a feel of an almost 80's blockbuster and Bird forgoes any type of dark feeling. Interestingly, there is never a clear cut villain and Bird keeps the possibility in the air that any one (including Athena or Frank) could well be an enemy. But smartly, the rug is pulled out from under us when the current Tomorrowland is presented to us. From here, there is a bleaker cloud is pulled over proceedings. Rather than bury the remainder of the film in self pity, Bird and Lindelof through one well scripted monologue from Nix bring about some interesting questions about the human appetite for chaos and destruction.

However, even through this is bright and shining adventure, it sadly beginning to run low on fuel in the final stretch. The principle issue with Tomorrowland is that apart from the grabbing visual aids, there is a gaping hole story wise. Casey's relationship with her NASA engineer father, is one more talked about than shown. Likewise Frank's fractured past relationship with Athena, we know that they had a falling out long ago, but we have only whispers and theories as to what actually happened. The real firing pin of the movie, is how Casey is single handedly allowing Frank to recaptured the hope and faith that he once had as his younger self.

Britt Robertson proves to be a real find as Casey and she allows the movie to revolve around her sense of likeability. Sporting a good sense of comic timing mixed with old fashioned optimism, Robertson makes Casey a fine Disney character. One to watch in future years, it is hard to believe that this lady is already 25! George Clooney is also in fine form as the grumpy old sod Frank, his loss of innocence and wonder works wonders and he is basically a project for Casey to remould back. Always a presence on screen, it has been some time since George has graced this type of blockbuster!

There are some minor gripes that some will have about Tomorrowland, but it is a picture that impossible to hate! Sporting some of the bright and breezy Disney feel of old, it is the first summer picture that is guaranteed to make both kids and adult smile!

Movie Moments That Inspired Songs

Strange Days "Right Here, Right Now"

These few lines from Angela Bassett in Kathryn Bigelow's 1995 sci-fi thriller would become the core lyrics of FatBoy Slim's 1999 dance classic!

Brassed Off "It's Music That Matters"

The opening lines of Pete Postlethwaite's emotional yet inspiring speech at the climax of this fine British drama was sample into Chumbawumba's beloved 1997 hit 'Tubthumpin''

The Wild Angels "We Wanna Get Loaded"

90's Dance floor's everywhere were filled whenever the opening lines to Primal Scream's song 'Loaded' appeared on the speakers, all thanks to this fine moment from this 1969 Peter Fonda starring vehicle.

Scarface "When You Get The Money, You Get The Power"

Already a firm favourite among rap artists, Al Pacino's now infamous line surprisingly made its way into Sigue, Sigue Spudnik's 1986 classic 'Love Missile F1-11'

Johnny Got His Gun "Various"

Dalton Trumbo's anti war piece was inspirational in inspiring Metallica's 'One' video, which is considered by many to be one of the finest video's ever produced. Various clips from the movie starring Timothy Bottoms were featured throughout.

The Road Warrior Returns: Review of Mad Max:Fury Road

Mad Max:Fury Road

Director: George Miller

By Alex Watson

Mastermind George Miller has ensured that out of nothing, Mad Max:Fury Road is a wall to wall belter which firmly reignites this franchise! A blood pumping thrill ride from the off, Miller's apocalyptic Oz world is engaging as it was when Mad Mel donned the black leathers. Stuck in development hell for over 22 years, this picture has not only been worth the wait! The raw punk rock influence of its predecessors has not been lost and finally Max has come on the biggest scale of all.

Captured by the War Boys of tribe leader Immortan Joe (Hugh Keays-Byrne), Max (Tom Hardy) reluctantly joins forces with defector Imperor Furiosa (Charlize Theron). The catch involves transporting Joe's five selected wives across to a safer haven across the Fury Road. But with not only Joe, but numerous other clans in pursuit- this will be no straight forward task.

With a far larger budget compared it is predecessors, Miller has been able to go full frontal on the carnage front and Mad Max: Fury Road excels epically. Seeing various tribes looking extra's from a Billy Idol video tear across the desert landscape, it is impossible not to grin widely. The beginning sequence gives a big indication of things to come as Furiosa driving the heaving armed 'War Rig' manages to thwart not only a wave of attacks from the War Boys, but then drives head first into a gigantic sandstorm! There may be questions surrounding the events of the beginning sequence, but when everyone hits the road- all theories become like the sand hanging on the breeze.

The relationship between Max and Furiosa is the one that forms the real heart of the movie. Years on, the Road Warrior is just as appealing and gutsy as the days of old. His words are infrequent, but when he lands them the effect is always felt. His reasons for joining this dangerous quest are up for speculation, but then again Mad Max has always favored the long odds. But out of the two leads, it is Furiosa who appeals more to our nature. She a woman who is desperate but not on her knees, who yearns to be free of the tyrannical group from she was forced into as a young girl. Her compassion and sheers balls that are demonstrated mark her out and as one of the heroines of the year!

But its glimpsing upon the tribe HQ 'The Citadel' that is the real eye opener. Here Miller shows a world of domination that boarders on grotesque. We see women being farmed for breast milk and Max himself is used a blood bank for desperate to impress warrior Nux (Nicholas Hoult). Joe is certainly a heavy and Valhalla spouting presences as leader, along with his silver skull oxygen mask and growling Bane like voice. Controlling his minions with an iron fist and sparingly giving them his waterfall of 'Aqua Cola' it is easy to see how the innocents of this world have immortalized his being. However, the moment that Furiosa goes rogue to rescue the unwilling brides, the movies takes on a high octane feel that shifts into top gear and refused to lower the gas pedal!

As the new Max, Tom Hardy makes for a worthy replacement and his presences on screen in one that dominates Miller's film. One of this centuries most prominent talents, Hardy has built his career is playing tough and imposing figures and Max fits him like a glove. This nuclear world will now be safe hands in future and Hardy is contracted for future sequels. Charlize Theron is also excellent as the determined Furiosa. Through her impressive turn, Theron provides the movie with a strong female presence which is badly needed for the story. Also there is welcome to return for Max old boy Hugh Keays-Byrne, who played antagonist Toe Cutter into the very first installment.

Against the odds, George Miller has delivered an exciting and rip roaring return in Mad Max: Fury Road. One of the better movies you will witness this summer, the future of Max Rockatansky is looking a lot brighter!

A Woman Under The Influence: Review of Far From The Madding Crowd

Far From The Madding Crowd

Director: Thomas Vinterberg

By Alex Watson

Danish director Thomas Vinterberg makes a good stab at adapting Thomas Hardy's, Far From The Madding Crowd. For the most part it is a heart wrenching and involving movie and in some ways even surpasses John Schlesinger's 1967 version. After his emotionally churning film, The Hunt, Vinterberg has been the ideal man to bring a new version to screen. Effortlessly he brings to light the clash between classes and the pain that the smallest actions can cause.

Bathsheba Everdeen (Carey Mulligan) is a headstrong young woman who has recently inherited her uncle's estate. Diving headfirst into the farming world, she soon finds herself tempted by three different suitors. Quiet farmer Gabriel Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts), rich loner William Boldwood (Michael Sheen) and dashing soldier Sergeant Frank Troy (Tom Sturridge). But although she yearns not become a man's wife, Bathsheba is seduced by passion and tradition. Both of which will eventually have a dangerous outcome of all.

The most effective piece of Vinterberg's Far From The Madding Crowd, is how he firmly portrays how Bathsheba ably dances into a man's world, but comes unstuck as a result. The three men in her life are the definition of class difference. She falls hard and fast for handsome but dangerous Troy and secretly scolds herself for it. A valentine's prank on the lonely and repressed Boldwood sets off a risky spark and she feels genuine remorse for hurting a good man. Even her first meeting with Sheppard Gabriel is one that will set off a complex relationship of love and dependence. Bathsheba renounces marriage claiming "I'd hate to be someone's property" but although independent she also feels the need for a male presence.

Inner conflicts between the characters are also excellently conveyed. Although Gabriel is the quiet yet wise soul who lovingly observes Bathsheba from a distance, he is perhaps the only one who can see through the other suitors facades. Troy while impressive on the outside is also a self-destructive and lovesick man who still pines for lost love Fanny Robbin (Juno Temple). But it is easy to see how Bathsheba is instantly illured by his sex appeal and yes the famous sword wielding scene is equally tantalizing as before. Boldwood while rich and openly speculated about is also a man secretly drowning in his own loneliness and insecurity. Courting Bathsheba seems to be his view of way of solving life's problems.

But even in the year since its first publication, Bathsheba is still a heroine who is not only likeable but also is willing learn from her transgressions. While a capable farmer and businesswoman, she is also naive to the ways of love and relationships. She also gives the movie a strength to move forward convincingly and to some movie goers, this might give Vinterberg's movie a light feeling, but not once does it weight it down.

Carey Mulligan proves to be an excellent Bathsheba and demonstrates a winning charm. Her real strength is that she gives this character an intelligence that marks out from Julie Christie's original iconic turn. As the world weary Gabriel, Matthias Schoenaerts also excels and rings in a turn that both heartfelt and firmly captures the silent longing that surrounds Hardy's novel. Tom Sturridge does give Troy a slightly more humane feel, but he still falls short of the cold hearted and sexual charged turn that Terence Stamp made so memorable! Michael Sheen feels underused as Boldwood, but shows enough to give a good impression of a man on the verge with himself.

As adaptations go, Vinterberg's version of Far From The Madding Crowd is one that has surprised everyone. It might not feel as iconic as the John Schlesinger version, but it does rise about it emotionally and delivers a stirring and engaging tale. Will also come in handy as Farming 101 guide for those wanted to relocate to Dorset any time soon!

Brotherhood of Buccaneers: Review of Avengers: Age of Ultron

Avengers: Age of Ultron

Director: Joss Whedon

By Alex Watson

Although a darker and less jokier flick than we might have expected, Joss Whedon is again consistent with Avengers: Age of Ultron. But unlike its gleeful predecessor, there is an air of warning and madness present from the start. Which culminates in a creation that truly loathes its creators. However, even though it scores highly on the thrill level, you can't help but feel that this franchise is beginning to wear a little thin!

Completing a dangerous mission against a HYDRA base, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr) wish to great artificial intelligence creation that will be protector to humans. Only his creation that arrives, Ultron (James Spader) immediately comes to hate humanity and sets about on a mission to destroy it! Matched against an unstoppable being along with fellow experimental beings Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) and Quicksilver (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). The Avengers have a hard mission ahead.

What perhaps sets Avengers: Age of Ultron apart is the fact that a great shadow of doubt has come across this once strong fraternity of superhero's. Captain America (Chris Evans) is starting to feel the strain of his role as protector, while Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo) is beginning to have doubts over not only his relationship with Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) but whether he can exist among humans at all? Even Tony Stark is cast is near villian mode as it is his meddling with the forces of AI that brings about one un-godly creation! But amidst the cracks appearing, this unit has learn to work as a team- just watch Thor (Chris Hemsworth) slam the Caps shield into a HYDRA man's face! 

Emerging like a more sinister Frankenstein's monster, Ultron is a living and vengeful being who decides the only way to save humanity, is to destroy the earth! Constantly slippery and evolving, Ultron provides the ultimate obstacle to the Avengers. But his brother and sister companions Wanda/Scarlet Witch and Pietro/Quicksliver make for fine lieutenants. Particularly as through her mind mangling abilities, Wanda brings their worst fears to life before their eyes. It is shown Iron Man his post New York trauma that will result in him behaving more irrationally than usual!

But although Whedon has now fitted the style of this group like a glove and his command of the action scenes is breathlessly executed- you can't escape the thought that Avengers:Age of Ultron is now all too familiar. The finale is once set in the air (now a Marvel staple it seems) and while thrilling and very unpredictable, it just doesn't give you the rousing feeling that you felt when this team was first together. His excellent use of characterization firmly keeps everything afloat and the new additions are being worked in nicely, even Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) gets his own part of the story after being drastically underused.

Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth are as usual fine in their customary roles, but unlike before they are not as memorable. These characters are beginning to feel like fresh with every appearance and even some neat changes doesn't completely change things. The real star turn goes to Mark Ruffalo who exhibits a fine inner conflict as Bruce Banner who for once is truly doubting his place in the world and fears for not only his own safety, but the rest of human kind! James Spader however makes for a magnificent Ultron! Like a bad seed done drastically wrong, his lament for humans is well felt and through his gravely yet commanding voice, one of the best Marvel villains is born!

Avengers: Age of Ultron is a still a great night of entertainment, and I understand that they are far from being done. But this Marvel universe is feel a little overcooked these days. The films will still come thick and fast (the two part Infinity War installment is due for 2018), but they will struggle to match the joy of old. But Whedon's darker take on events is still worth viewing, especially if you like the Hulk finally being unleashed!