Showing posts with label film review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label film review. Show all posts

Wednesday, 4 February 2015

Vampire (2011)

Can I just start by saying the above poster(the only one that seems to exist for this film) is one of the worst and most misleading posters I've ever seen and is a perfect example of advertisers trying to grab an audience purely on its title, leading to much disappointment and misunderstanding.
'Vampire' does not contain any actual Vampires in a traditional mythical sense, nor is it much of a horror film. Instead Shunji Iwai's english language debut is a somewhat subdued drama with a really interesting main character that assists people with suicides by simply draining their blood, which he then subsequently stores and drinks for himself. Though, it definitely has its flaws, the film stays utterly compelling throughout and has a similar tone to some of Iwai's previous work, making it a film that alot of people will find hard to get into. But those that can are sure to find a solid film that presents an intriguing and different take on the vampire concept.

Friday, 14 March 2014

Need For Speed (2014)

Carsploitation Bitch!. This movie is exactly what it is and that is Need For Speed the movie. Not a good video game movie by any means but one of the most accurate adaptations for sure. It is literally just cars, cars, cars mixed with cliche story elements. It also doesn't help that its very hard to care for any of the characters as they basically put innocent lives in danger as they race for their enjoyment. I do appreciate though, that all the stunts and driving are real and there are a few interesting shots here and there, including driver POVs.
I also wasn't particularly bored at any time, it has its odd funny moment, and Michael Keaton is alot of fun. Overall though, if you're not into cars or Need For Speed games, you're probably not gonna find much to enjoy here unless you just love Aaron Paul or Imogen Poots, of course. So yeah, just a whole bunch of meh.
**


Thursday, 13 March 2014

Kikoku AKA Yakuza Demon (2003)

Another solid Yakuza flick from Takashi Miike. Reminded me of Deadly Outlaw Rekka with the whole hot headed Yakuza being played by Riki Takeuchi, who is his usual bad ass self,
Though this movie seem a bit more grounded than that Rekka.
It's executed well with some intriguing camerawork and the usual familiar faces you see in Miike and yakuza films. And though it brings nothing new to the table, it's still a very enjoyable watch.
There's also an the alternate ending which was basically an hilarious allusion to the Dead Or Alive ending, which I loved.
***1/2

Tuesday, 11 March 2014

Blues Harp (1998)

Another exceedingly solid movie by Miike. Just a simple crime drama executed really well. Good performances, interesting stylistic choices and just all around enjoyable.
***1/2

Note: The DVD cover above is a terrible representation of this movie.