filmaholic33 Reviews

Austenland (2013)

So much potential...

[6/10 · 6 February 2014]

I am a big rom-com fan so I was eager to check this out. Not only did the cast look promising but the premise as well. Austen plucked out of the 18th century straight into our equally crazy world. But I must say I was a little disappointed. At first the direction seemed clear but then it just became an array of contrived scenarios and stilted dialogue. Mind you I know the characters are supposed to be acting as if they are in the regency era but oft-times I just didn't get what they were doing. If they had blended some of the Austen based elements better then maybe the film might have actually taken off.

It's still okay for a night in though.

Being Mary Jane (2013–2019)

All hail Gabrielle

[10/10 · 8 January 2014]

I am constantly scouting for new shows and I just happened across this today. I had no idea the pilot had already come out so it was a welcome surprise. One word...Fantastic. For a pilot I found myself really engaged and at the end I wanted more, which is always a good sign for a new show, so fingers crossed the show will build up on its potential.

Gabrielle is perfect for this role, she really portrayed MJ's moments of vulnerability very well. Also the family dynamic always interests me and the way this is not your standard nuclear family makes the conflict more interesting. I like the show's focus on women and their challenges in society as well as the pressures from every aspect of their lives.

If it continues to deliver I will surely be checking in till season 2. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for something new and dare I say it refreshing.

Adoration (2013)

It was almost there...

[5/10 · 2 September 2013]

There is so much potential in this little film. Personally the performances were great especially from Watts (Lil), Wright (Rose) and Samuel (Ian) who I felt really showed how he was genuinely in love in this this strange pseudo incestuous relationship.

But unfortunately a film can not ride on the actors'performances alone. For the direction let the film down. It was a bit too "choppy" at times as often scenes were either too drawn out or cut short that sometimes the point was lost. The pace wasn't too bad considering there were a few time jumps but in doing so Fontaine forgot to elaborate on some things that could have really added to the story.

Despite its flaws I really enjoyed the cyclical nature of Lil and Rose's relationship. Even though Lil and Ros are shown to have spouses and other friendships the story starts off with them alone and in turn when their sons join this circle they almost become a little community not letting any outside influences in, to the point were Rose's husband admits to actually feeling left out.

Thus at the film's conclusion, after all the drama and the anti-climatic confrontation once again Lil and Rose find themselves and their sons alone.

There are lessons to be learned but a poor delivery takes away from this. Ultimately this could have been an Oscar contender in my opinion. I already mentioned the strong performances but also the cinematography was just beautiful.

Worth a go when you are bored on a Friday night but not great enough to be unforgettable.

Argo (2012)

Unforgettable!

[10/10 · 16 August 2013]

When I first heard about it, I didn't even give it a second thought,largely because of the title. But then awards season came around and the hype surrounding it made me curious enough. But it took almost another year since its release for me to get a copy and see what all the fuss was about for myself and I have to say it did not disappoint. A big standing O for Mr Affleck

The events the film is based on happened nearly two decades before i was born but the film places you right in the middle of the chaos. Yes I knew I was watching a dramatisation but I felt all the emotions these people went through. And I credit Affleck's seamless direction and the brilliant cast which I have to say was spot on.

Im guessing the sensitivity of the subject drove many to give it negative reviews but I don't think Argo deserves any at all. Its not only Affleck's finest work but one of the finest films I've seen in a long time. Obviously I can not judge what was accurate and what was not but I love when a film not only entertains but also teaches you something in the process.

10 out of 10 and two thumbs up. I highly recommend this.

Pacific Rim (2013)

Worth the wait, time and money...Brilliant!

[10/10 · 11 July 2013]

I have been following this movie for a while now. Largely because of the two main actors Charlie Hunnam and Idris Elba and I have to say I was not disappointed at all. Watched it in 3D (I have always strayed away from 3D before because I just didn't think it was worth spending the extra cash) but this time I do not regret my choice at all. It was a visual feast.

Action was on point. The story flowed well (this is a blockbuster after all, we aren't going to compare it to an art house film). For me the actors embraced their roles very well and the visuals were magnificent (thank god once again for the 3D). Everything just felt right!

Being familiar with Guillermo's past work I would say this is his best yet. His imagination is wicked. So if you are looking for great entertainment and a little something to wow you, this is the movie for you.

Bravo. Two thumbs up.