Krampus (2015)

Be careful what you wish for this Christmas, It may just come true....

An extended family is forced to spend the Christmas break together. Things start badly with a lot of infighting, but when the youngest member of the family destroys his wish list for Santa Clause and stops believing in Christmas, it awakens an ancient being...

A paralyzing snow storm is the perfect setting for the family to discover the true meaning of the festive season. If they can work together, they may just be able to defeat a being, Hell-bent on ruining their Christmas

 A perfect comedic-horror romp, just in time for the holidays. Dark enough to frighten the kids, but comedic enough to allow adults to nervously laugh at things which go bump in the night.

It is a very hard task to mix horror and comedy and make it credible and this movie, fails to really achieve this. The cast; led by easily recognized comedy actor Adam Scott (Tony Engel) - Whose last outing was a very creditable showing the dramatic "Black Mass", he now returns to his favourite genre and although he does well, a more serious role, does seem to suit him better.

Australian actress Toni Collette, does well as "Sara Engel", the long suffering wife of Adam Scott, giving a convincing performance, as the stressed host of a large family holiday gathering.The true star of the show comes in the familiar form of  Conchata Ferrell (Better known to the world as "Berta" from 9 seasons of Two and a Half Men) - Pretty much reprises her role as the very comical "Aunt Dorothy".

Twelve year old Emjay Anthony takes on the biggest role of his young career with the semi-lead as "Max Engel". His disbelief in Santa Clause, starts all of the trouble and he does really well throughout. Austrian actress Krista Stadler, deserves a strong mention for her role as "Omi". Her wise words seemingly going unheeded as the story unfolds, but the rest of the cast learns to listen to her by the end.

The special effects team are the ones who deserve highest praise on this one, creating some very interesting, if somewhat unbelievable festively themed monsters to antagonize the family. This was an enjoyable film throughout, although I found it hard to take seriously with a well known comedian in the lead role.

5.5/10

The Lone Ranger (2013)

The story of a masked man and his Indian companion as they look to find themselves in the early days of the Wild West.

The retelling of the classic tale of the Lone Ranger and his trusted side kick Tonto, all told to a little boy through the ancient memories of the great warrior. When John Reid returns to his small home town of Colby to practice law, little does he know he will be drawn into a web of suspense and intrigue that will make him question everything for which he stands.

Together with his "Magical" steed "Silver" and his trusty companion "Tonto", he will risk life and limb to avenge the murder of his brother and bring down the bloodthirsty gang leader "Butch Cavendish".

Legendary Director Gore Verbinsky, the genius behind the "Pirates of the Caribbean" and most recently "Rango", now turns his attention to a rather more well known story, bringing to the big screen "The Lone Ranger" and his companion "Tonto". He does a fairly decent job on this film; one which could have gone either way with his audience over the age of 35 who remember the classic series.

Johnny Depp does a great job in the role of both the Aged and Youthful, "Tonto", bringing a comedic element to the film which keeps it rolling nicely, with a laugh here and there as the action continues unabated. Once more Depp moves slightly further away from his iconic "Captain Jack Sparrow", but never strays too far from the core character which has elevated his star to the very top of his profession. His portrayal of "Tonto" is enjoyable and he makes the character a lot more fun that one might have expected.

Armie Hammer returns to the big screen for the first time since donning his tights as "Prince Alcott" in "Mirror Mirror", this time taking a far more serious role as "John Reid" and "The Lone Ranger". He gives a decent performance, showing a good amount of versatility which may leave the audience wondering what is next for this talented actor. His vengeful, yet contained portrayal of the much loved law man is worth the admission fee alone, but you do wonder if he could have brought a bit more manliness which the role demanded?

William Fitchner seems to be at the very peak of his career, rolling out one film after the next. Hot on the heels of his showing as "John Carlyle" in Elysium with Jodie Foster and Matt Damon, he plays a far more darker character in the form of the ruthless killer "Butch Cavendish". Fitchner brings style and panache to a difficult character, combining the "Devil May Care" attitude along with the cold and calculating ruthlessness of a career criminal. He truly is the highlight of the film for me and his sinister portrayal mixes well with the comedy from Depp and Hammer.

British veteran Tom Wilkinson is excellent as "Latham Cole", the ruthless railway company boss, who will stop at nothing to achieve the goals which he has set for his transport conglomerate. Helena Bonham Carter once again gives a great performance as the Madam "Red Harrington", her ivory leg and dark cynicism, always good for a few laughs. Ruth Wilson does well as the love interest "Rebecca Reid" and this should prove a useful step in moving her from a TV career and onto the big time.

The film, as a standalone piece,  is a good bit of cinema, but for those of us who grew up with the original series, it seems to pale slightly.  The action is good, but is fine for all of the family, while the story carries on at a decent pace, but will never really have you on the edge of your seat. The combination of Depp and Hammer is a good one and would be interesting to see again. Worth a watch.

6/10

Kick Ass 2 (2013)

Three years after Kick Ass first jumped onto our screens, he is back and this time looking to join a team....

Crime fighting super hero Kick Ass has now reached high school and decides to take his heroic escapades to the next level, by joining a team.

With the help of a group of like minded crime busters, he goes to work cleaning up the city, but will have to deal with the evil intentions of his Arch nemesis, "Red Mist", who is hell bent on revenge after the slaying of his crime-lord father.

Both sides will form armies and fight to the death as the deranged "Red Mist" does everything in his extensive array of powers to avenge his fathers' demise. A world of change awaits Kick Ass, as he comes to terms with the reality of the dangers involved with the costume he has chosen to wear.

The second in the highly successful series, returns the popular Kick Ass and Hit Girl to our screens, once more trying to rid the worlds of the criminal element. A good attempt to revive the glory of the first smash hit, but one which falls sorely short in entertainment value. The characters have to come to terms with teenage angst and a few more reality checks, which leaves a distinct lack of comedy in this second incantation.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson reprises the role which rocketed him to fame in 2010 giving a decent showing as both "Dave Lizewski" and the inimitable crime fighter "Kick Ass", but there is something missing from the loveable teen of the first film, a darker, more serious side seems to have taken hold of the character and for me, not one for the better.  In his first outing since "Anna Karenina" he gives a good performance, but the character and the way it is written lets him down. Keep an eye on this talented actor and look for him to take on more serious roles in the coming years.

Chloe Grace Moretz first burst into our collective consciousness as "Hit Girl" a foul-mouthed pre-teen, expertly trained by her rather deranged "Big Daddy" to be the ultimate killing machine. We have seen her sparkle in the likes of "Hugo" and "Dark Shadows" since then, showing the acting talent which has already made her a super star, but her high school version of "Hit Girl" is not one that will be long remembered. The role was perfectly suited to an 11 year old girl in 2010, but now as a moody and troubled teen does not hold the same fascination as before. A truly talented actress, but not her best outing as both "Hit Girl" and "Mindie Macreedy"

Christopher Mintz-Plasse is the one shining light in this one; moving from his character of "Red Mist" to the vengeful and power mad, "MotherF*cker". He is hell bent on avenging his father, who was killed by "Kick Ass" with a bazooka. His portrayal of the truly deranged character brings some much needed comic relief to the film, as he appoints himself the worlds' first super villain. His building of a gang of super criminals is entertaining and also a little sick, but makes for a few, much needed high points in the film.

Young Claudia Lee, who makes her big screen debut in this one as the arch high school nemesis of "Hit Girl", does a sterling job as "Brooke" and I think we can expect big things from this talented 17 year old.

Clark Duke, known to the world for his roles in "The Office" and "Robot Chicken", gives a very decent performance as "Marty" as well as the deceptive crime fighter "Battle Guy". His natural comedic talent shines through in this role and adds a lot of much needed substance to this film. Legendary funny man Jim Carrey, returns to the big screen for the first time since "Mr Poppers' Penguins" , with a great, if far too short, showing as "Colonel Stars and Stripes". His borderline lunacy and dedication to the cause are commendable and he is a shining light in a movie which would otherwise have been short of appealing features.

The film fails to deliver in the wake of high expectations, falling a bit flat and is not the finest piece of cinema you will see this year. The established characters are tired and possibly a bit too old in this one. The lack of comedy is noticeable and in places the film is down right depressing. I was expecting something a lot more light hearted and was disappointed.

Not an alltogether bad film, but I was expecting a lot more...

5/10

Django Unchained (2012)

A German bounty hunter frees a slave in the deep South and takes him on a long trip to Mississippi in order to find the wife of the former slave and set her free.

When "Doctor King Schultz" frees a former runaway slave "Django" in the most unorthodox fashion, he starts an adventure which will take them both a long way in the search of the former slaves wife, Broomhilda.

Along the way they will run foul of slave traders, fighting men and a butler with a massive chip on his shoulder, as they strive to pull off one of the most ambitious plans of the 1850's. Throw in the early makings of the Klu Klux Klan and you have the perfect setting for an epic.

Famed Director Quentin Tarantino returns to the big screen for the first time since the Inspired 2009 Inglorious Basterds, not only directing, but also writing this brilliant film and having the undeniable talent to mold a world class cast into something truly special. Tarantino excels in this movie, bringing all of his class and usual panache to the screen, but this time with something extra. He pays homage to the famous Spaghetti Western legends "Bud Spencer" and "Terrence Hill" a number of times, tipping his hat to the men who cemented western comedy in the 70's.

Jamie Foxx takes on the lead role of "Django", a talented freed man who returns for his first outing since "Motherf**cker Jones" in the dark comedy "Horrible Bosses" and may well have succeeded in following up his Oscar winning role in "Ray" with this fantastic showing, sadly he was not given the nod this year. His performance is genuine and heart felt and he takes on this difficult role with ease. A truly inspiring outing from this talented actor

Oscar winner Christopher Waltz teams up with Tarentino again FINALLY delivers the performance which we have all been waiting for. Yes, he crawls out from under the immense shadow which was cast by his "Inglorious Basterds" persona, "Hans Landa" and shows a whole new side to his talents in yet another award nominated performance as "Doctor King Schultz". His role is comedic, yet very serious and he pulls this off with his usual brilliance, fitting in seamlessly with the ideals of the great director. He is an especially shining light in this one and is a joy to behold throughout.

The talented Leonard DiCaprio was unlucky not to receive another award nomination with his fantastic portrayal of slave owner and fight fan, "Calvin Candie". His character is dark and brooding, but also shows a large amount of naivety in his dealings with Schultz and Django. His acting, as always is superb, and this role brings out some of his best in a long while, showing that this talented actor has lost none of his talent. He is a true joy to behold in this outing and continues to crank out terrific performances.

Hollywood Legend Samuel L Jackson is truly superb in his short onscreen time as "Stephen", the long time butler and general slave overseer at "CandieLand". His underhandedness and cunning as well as a massive chip on his shoulder makes his character really easy to hate. He is a real treat in this film in one of his finest performances in a distinguished career. The only shame is that he is not on screen for longer. Keep an eye out for a lovely cameo from Quentin Tarentino, despite a truly horrible attempt at an Aussie accent.

The film is awesome and action packed from start to finish, a real treat for any film lover and a must for any fans of Tarentino. The only detracting factor from this classic is that it is possibly 20 minutes too long, but does not drag at all. It is well deserving of its best film Oscar Nomination and I think the director is very unlucky not to get more nominations from this masterpiece. The subject matter of slavery is serious, but with a comedic slant, and for those easily offended, stay far away from this one.

9/10

GI Joe - The Rise of the Cobra (2009)

An international terrorist tries to take over the world with a deadly chemical weapon and only the GI Joes can stop him...

When a weapon which was developed especially for the US army lands up in the wrong hands it is left up to a group of elite soldiers, "GI Joes" to stop the world being destroyed by a paranoid madman.

"Duke" and "Ripcord" are two regular soldiers with dreams of joining the air force and being more than just numbers on the payroll. When they are tasked with delivering a top secret weapon to an unknown location, their column is ambushed and all of the comrades gunned down. When "Duke" discovers he knows the leader of the attackers, he is determined to foil their plans and discover why the woman to whom he was engaged, has chosen to fight for the dark side.

Together with the rest of the GI Joes they have to fight against one of the most daunting forces in history, with limitless funds and no less ambition for evil and revenge. If they can pull out all the stops, maybe, just maybe the world will survive...

A film filled with superstars but unfortunately let down by a rather mediocre script. With Channing Tatum still honing his acting craft in the role of "Duke", it is abundantly clear that an action role was not really meant from him. Thankfully he has proven with almost every film that has passed since this one that he is improving, but in this he is nothing more than average.

Comedian Marlon Wayons, who rose to fame in the likes of "White Chicks" and "The Ladykillers" takes on the role of "Ripcord", a squash-buckling and talented soldier who wants nothing more than to serve his country and fly fast planes. He gets both his wishes, but, although a lot better than Tatum is still not truly suited for this role. Hollywood regular Dennis Quaid does well as "General Hawk", but seems to lack the conviction that would make his role creditable.

Sienna Miller does well in the roles of "Ana" and "The Baroness", the unwilling evil character in this film, conned into a life of crime and terror after the tragic death of her soldier brother. Her role is action packed, as is the entire film, which may be its one saving grace. Joseph Gordon-Levitt does decently as "Rex", while English born Christopher Eccleston does some very decent work as ""McCullen". Arnold Vosloo, he of "The Mummy" fame is probably the highlight of the movie in the role of cold blooded killer "Zartan", with another sparkling performance by Rachel Nichols, who plays "Scarlet".

The film is full of action and some wonderful special effects. The script could have been decent, as the concept was good, but just seemed to fall a little flat. If you have two hours to kill, then this is not the worst film you will ever see, but its nothing special.

4.5/10

Ice Age 4 - Continental Drift

The most famous pre-historic characters are back, but this time it really could be the end of the world...

Manny (The Mammoth), Diego (The Sabre Toothed Tiger)  and Sid (The Sloth), set out on their fourth great adventure, this time as their continent destroys itself and the three friends, are forced to not only for their very survival, but also to save the lives of their family.

Add in Sid's Granny, a rather small iceberg and some rather dastardly, if confused Ice Age pirates and you have the making of their most perilous adventures yet. Will their efforts be enough to halt the ever advancing wall of rock which threatens to destroy their world and all whom they hold dear.

It was bound to happen, but finally the makers of this very popular series have sold out to the commercial prospects that these films could bring and delivered Ice Age 4, which has to be aimed at audiences below the age of 10!

The main characters "Manny" (voice of Ray Romano), "Diego" (voice of Denis Leary) and "Sid" (voice of John Leguizamo) are their same old loveable selves which have brought so much joy to both young and old in the first three films of the series, but the makers have limited their roles and added in a lot of new - less exciting characters to ruin the franchise.

"Ellie"(voice of Queen Latifah) is once again superb, but plays such a tiny role in this film, that she is unable to truly stamp her talent onto this lackluster script. "Peaches"(voice of Keke Palmer), plays probably the major role in this movie and does not do it justice at all. Her teenage troubles are tedious and shallow, and I think it was a mistake to let her character take such a major role. Her on again, off again fixation with "Ethan", (voice of Audrey Graham) is tired and a little sad in places, trying to teach lessons which will be lapped up by kids, but will be yawned at by anyone older. The only highlight here is that "Ethan" really does remind you of a very young Val Kilmer in the rather more famous "Top Gun".

The introduction of the Pirates into the script is an unwanted death knell for the chances of this film being taken seriously, but the role of "Captain Gutt" (Voice of Game of Thrones superstar Peter Dinklage) is one of the few highlights to come from this motley crew. Admittedly they do deliver some decent one liners which do bring a few adult laughs.

"Paul" stars, Nick Frost and Simon Pegg are good as the characters of "Flynn" and "Buck", while Jennifer Lopez is respectable as "Shira". The role of "Granny (voice of Wanda Sykes) is a lovely change from the mundane action of the story, and it would have been a lot better if she had a far larger role.

The film was boring for anybody above the age of 12, the story pedantic and a very long way from the glory days of Ice Age 1-3. The script seemed to be lacking and the characters we have grown to love since their first outing in 2002, just seemed flat. I did not enjoy this film at all, but the hordes of 5-7 year olds who invaded the cinema absolutely loved it. Take the family to see this one, they will be talking about it for days.

For serious movie-goers this is a big let down, but keep an eye out for the Simpsons cartoon before the start of the film which was a real treat.

3.5/10

EuroTrip (2004)

A group of American friends go on a tour around Europe with hilarious consequences

When Scott's girlfriend Amanda dumps him on the day of his high school graduation and he tells his beautiful pen-pal (Who he thinks is a guy) to go and fly a kite, he decides to drop everything and together with three friends; chase her down halfway across the world.

The trip does not go exactly according to plan and the group finds themselves in all sorts of hilarious situations all over the European landscape. From a questionable sex club in Amsterdam, to a French nude beach and a really dodgy Italian on a train, the intrepid travelers have to make their way across the continent in search of a German beauty and some "crazy European sex".

If fate plays her hand correctly maybe the two would be lovers will meet in the Eternal City...

A delightfully naughty comedy, that is a roller coaster of laughs from start to finish. It has the annoyingly catchy song in "Scotty doesn't know" performed by an awesome cameo by superstar Matt Damon, who, on this showing, may have missed his true calling to musicianship.

New York born Scott Mechlowitz, takes the lead role of "Scott Thomas" in quite possibly the biggest role of his career. His character is pitiful, yet easy to like, never seeming to have much luck, but always upbeat and you feel deserving of a break. Some of his one liners are superb and his character keeps the script ticking along at a good pace. Jacob Pitts is the perfect companion to the lead character, with his embodiment of "Cooper Harris", a work dodging, yet very intelligent young man whose only aim on the trip is to have some crazy European sex.

Michelle Trachtenberg and Travis Wester do really well as possibly the worst twins in the world, "Jenny and Jamie", two more different siblings you could not find, but they make for some of the biggest laughs of the film and also some of the much needed romance. British acting legend Vinnie Jones is truly the highlight of this film, his football hooligan character, "Mad Maynard", his abuse filled rants are hilarious. Keep an eye out during the outtakes for even more comedic value from his character.

Fred Armisen is probably the funniest character in the film, labeled as "The creepy Italian Guy", a description which fits him to a tee. His character is perverse, yet superbly comedic, and just has that look about him that makes you want to smile.

A really watchable film; funny and touching in places, the audience always wanting things to work out in the end. It is not one for the whole family, with quite a few mature topics and a fair amount of nudity, but well worth the time you spend on it. Will have you laughing for a long time afterwards.

6.5/10

On the Road

How far do you have to travel in life to truly find yourself?

Dean and Sal are the best of friends, in a post World War II America, trying to find "IT", while also trying to find themselves. Sal, along with their friend Carlo and Dean, make their way from one end of the country to the other, always traveling by car and enduring some of the most vicious conditions which the US has to throw at them.

Dean has a wondering spirit, not only in life, but also with the ladies. His on again, off again 16 year old wife Marylou, gets dragged from pillar to post, one day in favour, the next day not, while the three friends smoke and drink their way through their young lives, always in search of something.

Through all the debauchery and living life to the fullest, the three young men, and those around them try to discover the truth about their fathers, the truth about themselves and also have as much fun as they possibly can before it kills them. When finally they start growing up, the group splits, children are produced and lessons are learned, but still the young men continue their search for that elusive something. Only once their time on the road has concluded, will they find the truth.

An intriguing and interesting, yet debauchery filled film which lays bare the lives of the leading characters and exposes a much missed time in American history, for what it really was. Set just four years after World War II, it shows the seeming futility which the young generation felt, not understanding their parents, but crying out for their own independence, even though they are not sure what it was.

A talented young cast in this one, 22 year old Englishman, Sam Riley taking the lead as "Sal Paridise" in a role that seemed almost written for him. He shows a decent amount of emotion which is needed in this part, and a maturity that could see him go far in this industry. In his first outing since "Woman in Love" in 2011, he impresses and keeps the film going at a decent pace, interacting very well with his fellow cast members. Look for more from this talented young man.

Garrett Hedlund plays a leading role in the part of "Dean Moriarty", a lost and confused young man, looking to take the most out of life, hoping experiences will somehow replace the father who has been missing from his life for the past decade. Hedlund makes his first showing on the big screen since the 2010 blockbuster, "Tron Legacy" and gives a far better performance this time out, showing some true depth and emotion with his portrayal of this troubled young man. He is impressive and should well go on to bigger things.

"Twilight" actress Kristen Stewart shows for the first time in her career, that she can actually act; with her portrayal of 16 year old "MaryLou". She gives a convincing showing, quite easily her best performance, illustrating that there is a fair bit of talent there. This is also the first time she has opted to go topless,  something which certainly fits into the story, which is filled with illicit sex and partner swapping, but I am not too sure if this is what her career needed. It is good to see that the talent is there and hopefully she can go onto bigger and better things.

British born Tom Sturridge continues his very decent run in major motion pictures with this outing as "Carlo Marx", a very confused young man who adores "Dean" and will get himself into a lot of trouble in order to impress his idol. His character is complex and he plays it brilliantly, but could have spent more time on screen, as he deserved to play a bigger part. Kirsten Dunst does very well indeed as the "older" woman in the love triangle, bringing the character of "Camille" to life with all its broody dissatisfaction that a woman scorned can have. Keep an eye out for Viggo Mortensen to have a lovely five minute cameo as the rather mental "Old Bull Lee".

The film is gripping and a very decent watch, a lot better than I expected of it. It has many adult themes and a fair bit of nudity, so not one for the family, but well worth the time you spend on it, even it if it is possibly 20 minutes too long.

5.5/10

Snow White and the Huntsman

An Evil Queen, with a passion for eternal youth, hunts her step daughter in order to obtain immortality.

The classic story of Snow White and the Evil Queen with a few new twists and turns. An evil Queen, takes control over a kingdom, after murdering her husband on their wedding night and taking over his castle with her own army.

Her vanity for beauty makes her destroy the country and demoralize the people, always searching for pretty girls to feed the magic which keeps her young and beautiful. With the aide of her magic mirror the Queen keeps tabs on the "Fairest of them all", erradicating all who would wish to claim that role. When her step daughter, "Snow White" comes of age and threatens to usurp her place as the most beautiful in the land, the Queen, knows that she must kill her and, by doing this, give herself everlasting youth.

When "Snow White" escapes to the dark forest, where the Queen's magic does not work, she sends a huntsman after her, ordered to remove her heart and bring it back to the ruler. In end, "Snow White" is the only one who can save her evil step mother, but also the only one who can end her tyrannous life.

For months we have been bombarded by the impressive previews that were put out about this film, and in a way they delivered. The special effects are some of the best I have ever seen; and the animation was something to behold.

Unfortunately a film, cannot depend wholeheartedly on these factors, the cast needs to hold up their end of the the bargain, and for the most part they did. Sadly, the title role of "Snow White" was given to Kristen Stewart, she of "Twilight" fame and, as much as the casting director would like to believe it; an actress of this caliber cannot hold up the business end of what in effect, was a mini epic. The 21 year old, truly did let herself down in this opportunity for her to shine, showing that she is not quite ready to take on these sorts of roles just yet. Her emotions and facial expressions were minimal and her acting talents, seem to have been put in a cupboard somewhere. Unlike fellow "Twilight" actress Anna Kendrick, this one still has a lot to learn about entertaining a discerning adult audience. Hopefully, with experience will come wisdom, but this performance was painful in places and average at best.

Oscar winner Charlize Theron is sublime as the "Evil Queen Ravenna", giving one of the finest performances of her career as this truly evil and demented character. Her performance made you want to stand up and applaud at times, her mood swings and outbursts, something to be treasured. A lot of the special effects in this film centered around her character, but combined with her acting prowess, made her role the true backbone of this film.

Australian born Chris Hemsworth's career seems to be on fire at the moment, with films literally rolling off the production line. He follows up his decent showings in "Thor" and "The Avengers" with a good outing as "The Huntsman", a grieving  and tortured alcoholic soul, who is tasked with hunting down the heroine and also propping up most of the film. He is not aided at all by the fact that he uses a Scottish accent throughout, which keeps slipping, but does cause for the odd comedic moment. His character is strong and powerful and gives the audience somebody to root for.

The audience is spared the pitiful efforts of Stewart with the introduction of the Seven Dwarfs, in this film, played by some of the best known faces in British cinema, with Hollywood veteran Bob Hoskins giving a truly admirable performance as the sightless "Muir". Ian McShane also weighs in with an impressive showing as "Beith", while other "dwarfs", Ray Winstone, Nick Frost, Eddie Marsdone, Toby Jones, Johnny Harris and the wonderfully lovable Brian Gleeson in the role of "Gus", brighten this film dramatically with their presence. The effects director should be praised highly for making these regular sized gentlemen, just three feet tall.

Sam Spruell does very decently as the downtrodden brother of the Evil Queen, but does struggle to garner any sympathy from the audience, coming across as a vile, demented and somewhat perverted toad. Keep an eye out for a decent cameo from model/actress Lily Cole as the victim, "Gretta", while although we don't his face, Christopher Obi, is rather scary as "The Man in the Mirror", using some amazing special effects.

The script is decent, slow in places, and not helped by Kristen Stewart, but manages to keep itself plodding along. It taught me a few new things, about the well known classic story, with the script writer taking a good few liberties. There is the odd laugh and not too much gratuitous violence, the story flows slowly, but is worth a watch in the end.

My only question goes to the casting director, as to in which fantasy world, is Kristen Stewart, fairer than former model Charlize Theron?

Worth the go and prepare to be astounded by both the special effects, and also Charlize Theron.

5.5/10

Act of Valor

An international terrorist finds a way to infiltrate the USA and a group of Navy Seals has to stop him.

A group of Navy Seals are tasked with the almost impossible chore of protecting the USA from an international terrorist who is set on their destruction. A Ukranian drug dealing billionaire decides to back the terrorist cell fronted by one of his childhood friends. Together they develop a number of suicide vests which cannot be picked up by airport security machines.

This would give them the chance to attack the country at whichever port they decide on and the USA would have absolutely no way of being able to track their movements. A group of experienced Navy Seals, who stumble upon these activities quite by accident, are thrown into the fray, needing to stop the suicide bombers before they can release their deadly packages.

They use all of the ultra modern technologies available to aide them in their quest to stop the terrorists, all the time, trying to stay alive, while some of the most deadly men on the planet are trying to keep them from returning to their families who love them.

This film originally started life as a short recruitment film for the US Army and Navy and it was decided that this was so good that it should be made into a full length movie. I am not sure who decided this, but they made the wrong choice. The movie plays out as a combination of a recruitment film, a documentary of sorts and a a realllly long intro video for "Call of Duty, Black Ops". All of which might have been good things, but together they are certainly not.

Taking the risky venture of using real active Navy Seals as the stars of this film, did not pay off. These men are true heroes, but sadly, despite all of their fine acts of heroism in the service of their country, they are not actors. Giving them emotional lines and scenes to perform was not the finest of ideas,and the actors which co-directors Mike Mccoy and Scott Waugh DID find, were sadly, not up to the task either.

Jason Cottle takes the role of Russian terrorist Abu Shabal, in his first major film since "Wedding Singer" in 1998, but sadly is neither convincing nor plausible. His performance is weak and the film needed a far stronger actor to carry it. Ukranian born Alex Veadov, gives a fair showing as billionaire drug pin "Christo", but should probably stick to the computer games voice roles which has paid the rent for the past few years. The beautiful Roselyn Sanchez is a nice distraction as CIA agent "Lisa Morales" and it should be interesting to see her in more serious roles going forward.

Even if you are a fan of war films, or a hard core first person shooter fan, you will still have trouble digesting this film as anything but an experiment. The script is weak and the action not too convincing. It will more than likely do well as a recruitment film, but for serious movie goers, steer clear of this one.

3.5/10

Mirror Mirror

The classic story of Snow White, done a little differently this time....

We all know the much told and much loved story of Snow White, the evil queen and the Seven Dwarfs, but this year we are treated to a side of the tale, that we have never seen before!

Put together a jealous, yet very comical and incredibly bitchy queen, a tomboy of a Snow White, a prince Charming who may well have been stood behind the door where brains were handed out; AND the Seven dwarfs like you have never seen them before, for the most interesting version of this fairy tale you are ever likely to see.

In so many renditions of this story, you find the Queen to be ultimately evil and Snow White, cute, innocent and naive, while the Dwarfs never really take top billing. Well this film is different, and opens you up to a side of the story you would never really consider. For the first time ever, the dwarfs are the ones who take the majority of the limelight, while the Queen (Julia Roberts), although evil, conceited and vain, is still somewhat of a lovable character, despite her maniacal intentions.

I was not too sure what to expect from this one, but was pleasantly surprised by the way director Tarsem Singh, who follows "The Immortals" with this delightfully dark comedy has grasped the concept and run with it. The film is upbeat, with more funny one liners than you can count and keeps the piece light enough for the kids, while still keeping the adult audience interested.

Hollywood legend Julie Roberts gives a superb performance as the Evil Queen, bringing some much needed lightness to the role which has always been interpreted as one of the darkest in film. Her grasp of the character is great and really makes her a lot more likable than has been the case in this story before. It is sometimes hard to recognize, just how evil she is, but she really ads a whole new dimension to the piece.

UK Born Lily Collins, who reminded me for 2 hours of a very young Audrey Hepburn, takes the role of Snow White, bringing a new independent view to a roll which has traditionally shown her as a victim. She kicks ass and takes names and actually makes the story a lot better. Little known Armie Hammer, continues his good form from "J Edgar", with a rather different view on "Prince Charming", but this interpretation, only ads to the comedic value.

The Dwarfs in this film are superb. Some better known faces than others, with Martin Klebba, taking on a far more enjoyable role as "Butcher", than his last outing, which saw him stuffed in an oven in "Project X". Good showings also come from Danny Woodburn as "Grimm" and the very funny Mark Povinelli, who follows up his leading role in "Water for Elephants", with a fantastic showing as the would be ladies man "Half Pint".

Nathan Lane however is the one who steals the show as the ever creeping "Brighton", personal servant to the Queen. He gives a brilliant performance as a spineless weed and will have audiences rolling in the aisles with his expressive antics. Also, keep an eye out for a rather enjoyable cameo, by British actor, Sean Bean and one of the most random endings to a film I have ever seen.

This is a really enjoyable film for the whole family and will entertain both young and old alike. You will laugh a lot more than you ever have at this classic story, but the final scene will leave you scratching your head.

6/10

Avengers 3D

The biggest comic book film in history, has finally hit our screens - Was it worth it after all the smoke and CGI clears?

Finally the movie that all comic book fans, young and old, have been waiting for, has arrived. With a bang and a thump and more CGI than you can shake a stick at, Marvel comics and Paramount have collected the greatest collection of super heroes ever to grace page and screen and thrust them upon cinema goers for the movie event of 2012

The Hulk, Iron Man, Captain America, The Mighty Thor and the slightly less well known, Black Widow and Hawkey, are brought together by Nick Fury (Samuel L Jackson), under the S.H.I.E.L.D Banner, to fight the forces of darkness from another world under the leadership of Thor's evil younger brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston). And all of this over a small glowing cube, called the Tesseract that conveniently holds enough power to run the universe until the end of time. Bring all of these forces together to battle for the ultimate prize and you are going to have one hell of a bun fight.

Even to the average non comic book fan, those who didn't sit through to the end of the credits of, Iron Man 2, Thor, Captain America and the Green Lantern to see the next piece in the puzzle, this still has to be the movie event of the year. A brain fry of CGI madness, huge stars and a better story than many would have predicted along with some brilliant one liners, make this a really good watch for fans of most ages.

The only let down for me, in a film that will probably go down in history as an epic, was the lack of character development for Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) and Hawk Eye (Jeremy Renner), both of whom admittedly did not have full length features (Quite a few in the case of Hulk) to establish their characters. The story as a whole, flowed very well, riddled with one liners from Robert Downey Jr (Iron Man) and Mark Ruffalo (The Incredible Hulk) in the best portrayal of the Green Monster and his deep, dark a brooding alter ego, that I have ever seen.

Chris Hemsworth reprises his role as the Mighty Thor, showing off immense strength and adding another string to his credibility as a decent actor, but it is Tom Hiddleston who stole the show with his portrayal of the ambitious, arrogant and manipulative Loki. Even is his silences he is menacing and a true pleasure to watch for the whole of the 2 hours and 22 minutes for which this film runs (don't worry it does seem a lot shorter than that in the action roller-coaster of a ride.)

Chris Evans as Captain America, probably plays a bigger role in this film than he should. His character is not strong enough to hold the film (unlike that of Downey and Ruffalo), and I am not sure he is a strong enough actor to pull this one off. His character is a little boring in places, but to his credit he keeps at it and probably improves on his last outing as the all American hero.

Samuel L Jackson as Nick Fury is inspired as always, leaving the audience wondering which side of the battle he really is on? The lovely Gwyneth Paltrow does a good job as Pepper Potts, but sadly only makes brief appearances. Clark Gregg returns as the very likable Agent Coulson for the fourth time in the Marvel Comics films and gives a superb showing surrounded by so many other strong characters. The surprise of the film comes from 20 year old Canadian Cobie Smulders who plays the role of Agent Maria Hill and gives a performance that will hopefully ensure that this first feature outing will soon be repeated. Her character is gripping and demands attention.

The film ticks almost all of the boxes across a number of genres and will suit almost any sort of movie fan. The 3D once again is not used to its full potential, but I would recommend seeing this more than once in order to follow all the action, which can be a bit much at times, while still being really enjoyable. I am excited for the next installment and hope that it will not take Paramount as long to make the follow-up

8/10