Gangster Squad: ****

This definitely took me by surprise, I entered the cinema expecting something dull and averagely gripping but of course I was proved very wrong! Gangster Squad provides a sleek, stylish and intriguing story line with a bunch of interesting individuals. The characters are the main ingredient in this film, they really do make it. With violent criminals you will love to hate, devoted family men and a passionate romance this film really does make good entertainment. The plot seems quite simple as there's one ultimate bad guy, and a team of vigilantes who are the good guys trying to take down the bad guy. But what really makes this picture seem realistic and emotionally capturing is the sub plots. We get to know the lead figures' wives and children and feel a sympathy that creates a strong bond between viewer and character, and there's definitely something for both girls and boys here. You have the action and cool slick-style of 1940's gangsters for the males, and the sophisticated relationship between Stone and Gosling for the females. Ryan's good looks is a massive bonus too, eye candy in it's finest. I really found Stone's character 'Gracie' interesting, she portrayed a split performance of damsel in distress and brave, strong heroin. She was victim to some classic mental abuse being treated as no more than a possession to the villain Mickey Cohen, and her story saw her overcome this, although not single handedly i might add.  A small warning before viewing: Gangster Squad did also surprise me in the fact that there was a lot of blunt violence! But it all added to the depth of the characters and tension of the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this film and was kept on the edge of my seat during some intense scenes. I fully recommend.


Rating: 4 stars
Highlight: The lead baddie Micky Cohen, and the line 'You know the drill'
See if: You're into crime films/action/ romance and a little comedy. As you can see, there is a little something for everyone here!
Don't see if: You're sensitive to violence, or don't fancy focusing on a organised crime based film.

Django Unchained: ****

The newest addition to the Tarantino legacy will not disappoint. It's everything you'll expect from the genius Quentin: a gripping story line infused with historical fact, fast paced screen play, quirky match cuts and brilliant one liners. The characters are simply superb, you know you have a recipe for a good film when each individual you're watching on screen seems like they've all come from their own separate, complex story. DiCaprio did a fine job as this pictures villain, but my personal favorite performance came from Christoph Walz playing Schultz the German bounty hunter. I loved this character! He was the obvious refreshing take on 'the only non-racist white' in the film, serving as a sort of good samaritan as he takes Django under his wing and offers him freedom in return for partnership. I just felt the character was original and well portrayed, and also refreshing given the era in which the plot is set. Well done Walz! Even though there is light in this film, there is the subtle message that is a little alarming which is obviously the reminder that this is part of true history. There are a few scenes that are hard to watch, and much like Inglorious Bastards, this film will remind you of the suffering some of the human race were put through... but with a few uplifting twists and a sort-of happy ending.

Rating: 4 Stars
Highlight: The KKK Scene was hilarious!
See if: You're interested in black american history, you're a Quentin fan or want to see a  
         drama/comedy/action mash up
Don't see if: You're sensitive to violence (although not frequent), not a Quentin fan

Les Miserables: *****

Tom Hooper's adaptation of the incredibly popular book turned musical Les Miserables proved to be a treat for both the eyes and ears. I was blown away by the talent of the cast, who did a remarkable job of singing live on set whilst performing faultless portrayals of the well known characters. The film has received mixed reviews, and I can understand why this is such a 'marmite' situation. Generally, those I have known who are lovers of musical theater and specifically Les Mis, have thoroughly enjoyed it. Where as some have found it too long and 'classical' to find enjoyable, especially as it's a sung through musical with minimal dialogue.The picture runs over roughly 160 minutes, but was very fast paced and kept the story line fresh and understandable despite being presented through music. I would say that if you're a fan of the music from Les Mis, you can't go wrong. Anne Hathaway's performance as Fantine was my personal highlight, and her rendition of I Dreamed A Dream is simply beautiful. Sacha Baron Cohen and Helena Bonham Carter provided laughs in between the Miserables and my only critic would be that Eponine was not involved enough! Samantha Barks did a brilliant job and i just wish we had seen more of her. Some advice; Bring tissues!


Rating: 5 Stars
Highlight: Anne Hathaway!
See if: You want a good cry, love music and interested in historical events
Don't see if: You're not a fan of musical theater (simple really..)

The Hobbit: ****

The long awaiting prequel to The Lord of the Rings trilogy is clever, funny and a treat for the eyes. The famous tale centers around Bilbo Baggins, the lovable Hobbit and uncle of LOTR's lead character Frodo Baggins. Bilbo is persuaded by the iconic wizard Gandalf and a   clan of heroic dwarfs to come on an 'adventure' and attempt to defeat the almighty dragon Smaug. This film is thoroughly entertaining, and will please a wide audience with it's script, story and characters. I've heard that a lot of viewers say they found The Hobbit to be too similar to LOTR, having been cut into a trilogy when the original book is singular and quite short. However, I believe that this link is too small and disagree, I found The Hobbit to be much more suitable for a family audience than the previous films. It had comical elements, and did not have a story that was difficult to follow unlike the far more complex plots Tolkien wove into LOTR. Furthermore, the film managed to seem fast paced and fun despite being nearly 3 hours long. This is an aspect I respect writers for when a film achieves this, as running time will sometimes repel viewers. The cast were brilliant, and they all portrayed character's that were individually entertaining and unique.


Rating: ****
Highlight: 'Have they got any chips?', Gollum's appearance
See if: You're a fan of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, also recommended for family viewing.
Don't see if: You're not a fan of fantasy films, other than that i see no reason not to go and see this film! If you see the trailer and don't like what you see, chances are you won't find the film any different it's very much what you see on the cover.