Runs like a gay: March 2009

Tuesday, 31 March 2009

Trailers

I's time for me to be populist again, and post the trailer for a film, that I myself may not have any interest in, but which is high profile and I expect will top the UK charts for the month.

Last month I guessed Watchmen, and whilst I don't think it will be number 1 at the end of the month (now) I expect it will be number 2. Pressure is on then. April is much harder - it's not a month that big box office films generally come out over here so it's a toughie. There are 14 films opening wide in the uK over the coming months. Of these I'd say only 3 are in contention. I have discounted X-Men Origins: Wolverine as it opens early therefore only just hitting the month and probably won't have enough time to hit the top. The two films left, both opening this week are Monsters Vs. Aliens and The Boat that Rocked.

In light of the middling reviews for The Boat, and after it's impressive opening weekend in the States I'm going on record with Monsters Vs Aliens as the box office champ. Enjoy the trailer:

Christopher Walken

Happy Birthday to,

Christopher Walken

66 today

Walken is, in my mind, the epitome of the scary relative who nobody likes to talk to at weddings and may or may not have a tremendously horrific past. Happy birthday mate.

Running

I got a bit lost this morning so my route was a few minutes longer than anticipated. Of course that's just a rouse to avoid explaining how slow I was:

5.9 km in 34 minutes or 10.4 kmph.

Monday, 30 March 2009

Personal News (30/03/09)

I'm at that dreadfully glum stage between shows where you're all deflated form the one you've finished and not yet elated about the next one. Still need to get into the Hugh Grant alike ready for Lifelong Yearning.

Have at least started learning the script - begins with "Hi, I'm Oliver." Um, that's all I've learnt so far but it's a start.

Almost had another Murder mystery (ABBA themed this time) on Friday but it has unfortunately been cancelled. Heigh-ho.

Must go learn lines...

Sunday, 29 March 2009

Running

Still slow.

10.2km in 59 minutes. 10.4 kmph.

I hang my head in shame.

Film News (28/03/09)

I could give you more exuses as to why this post is late - but I won't, please just accept my humble apologies.

Robin Hood

It's definitely coming - the Ridley Scott version of the classic tale of men in green tights. After a six month delay due to the wrong leaves filming commenced this week with Russel Crowe as Robin Hood, Cate Blanchett as Maid Marian and Vanessa Redgrave as Eleanor of Aquitaine (it's the first time I've hears of Eleanor being wove into this story so it could be interesting to see how they handle one of the most charismatic women on th Middle Ages). No casting on the Sheriff of Nottingham or Friar Tuck just yet.

I grew up loving the stories of Robin Hood so I'll definitely be in the front of the queue for this one. My concern is that Scott isn't a great director, and never really outperforms his material. Although on the plus side it's been written by Brian Helgeland (L.A. Confidential, Mystic River), so there could be a good starting point.

Freedom Formula

Another week, another comic book/graphic novel adaptation (and this is the first of 2 I'm mentioning this week). This one isn't a million miles away from Iron Man in that it concerns a pilot in a fighting suit, although in this case he finds he can alter society dramatically. In a way I'm disappointed as it looks like Bryan Singer (Valkyrie, X-Men) has picked this up as his next project. I'm disappointed because he was due to make You Want me to Kill Him?, a much smaller picture about 2 boys who get together on a chat room and decide to kill off a bully - almost a cross between Elephant and Strangers on a Train and I'd much rather see Singer explore different aspects of cinema.

Strange Adventures of H.P. Lovecraft

The second comic book adaptation, of a graphic novel which will only be published next week, is a blend of fact and fiction about the influential horror writer H.P. Lovecraft blending in his works of fiction, and themes of mental illness and writers block. If it works it could be a 30's set Adaptation.

True Grit

The Coen brothers have chosen thier next project, and it isn't Hail Ceasar, Surbicon or The Yiddish Policeman's Union. Instead it's a remake of the 1969 John Wayne starrer, True Grit. They will be working more form the book than the original film so there will be more focus on the girl seeking revenge for the murder of her father and the tone will also be potentially darker. So serious Coen it is. Saying that there still could be an opportunity for an aging actor, who's been ignored by the academy, to pull a great performance out of the bag as Rooster Cogburn. I'd like to see Donald Sutherland give it a go (so many good films, not so much as an nomination) but who do you think?

Untitled James Mangold Picture

Would you believe it's be 5 whole weeks since a picture was annouced with James Mangold involved. Well, not to worry here's another. This time it's a rom-com with Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz, but apparently not Vanilla Sky 2. I'd like o see Tom do another rom-com, and Cameron used to be a great comic actress. I'd also love to see Mangold commit rather than keep dangling these projects in front of us, but I guees you can't have everything.

Untitled Woody Allen London Summer Picture

The crowded picture has now gained another familiar face in the guise of Nicole Kidman. The last time he had this sort of star power in a film was Everyone Says I love You - and I don't see that as a good sign.

Box Office News

Release Date News

Frozen River - Melissa Leo's Oscar nominated performance will finally get a UK release, nearly 12 months after it's release stateside on 10/07/09.

Away We Go - This curious baby on the way quirky comedy from Sam Mendes will be hitting our screens on 18/09/09. The trailer hasn't done much for me, but a lot of people are interested and it has a likeable cast.

Nine - The 8 1/2 musical with the extraordinary all star cast has chosen 27/11/09 as curtain up. I was worried that this wouldn't come out for ages after it hit the States (gotta love the Weinsteins) but it's looking like a day and date release so maybe they've worked out that we Brits love musicals.

Robin Hood - It's already had a mention once in this post, but you'll need to look out for Crowe hiding in the undergrowth on 14/05/10.

Salt - Anjelina Jolie will be vanquishing Russian Spies on 13/08/10. Good for her, eh?

Straw Dogs - I'd forgotten completely about this unnecessary remake from Rod Lurie, as I'd not heard anything about it since 2007. Apparently it's still on it's way, and due to be released on 17/09/10.

In less good news 2 films - Everlasting Moments (already trailered) and Vintner's Luck have both lost their release dates and are now in limbo. I can only hope it's because, in the first instance, the US release was too successful ($186k and counting) so they're rethinking their UK stratge, and in the second case it's being repositioned in the awards season. We'll see.

Box Office Report

Way out ahead from the February releases is Bolt, proving that kids films about Dogs are always a top seller here in the UK. Further down the scale at number 5 is Hotel for Dogs, as well, although I expect Gran Torino to take the fifth slot after this weekend. Still can find no reason for it's strange release strategy, other than it not appearing on this list. Bizarrely as it stands I've not seen any of February's top 5 (although I did recommned CCoBB as my pic of the week).

1. Bolt
2. He's Just not That Into You
3. The Curious Case of Benjamin Buton
4. Confessions of a Shopoholic
5. Hoel for Dogs

Saturday, 28 March 2009

Dianne Wiest

Happy Birthday to

Dianne Wiest

61 today

Dianne is a truly beautiful performers with a string of hits in the 80s and 90s. What makes it especially interesting is that she is as happy with comedy as with straight drama. Watch her 2 Oscar winning performances back to back (in Woody Allen's Hannah and her Sisters and Bullets over Broadway) and just marvel at the range and layers she brings to the rols.

Running

It's always the way after a week off the road, this morning I managed only a short distance but I was particularly knackered whn I returned.

It was 3.7 km in 20 minutes (I told it was short) which roughly equates to 10.9 kmph, so at least the speed wasn't embarassing, by my standards anyway.

Friday, 27 March 2009

Out this week (27/03/09)

The multiplexes are really quite busy this week, with 10 new features (as well as 2 docs) all opening. I can't say there are any that I've been jumping up and down about. I previewed the trailer for Life before her Eyes, and Knowing will certainly be the box office champ, however the top pic of the week goes to Two Lovers.

Aa Dekhen Zara

Bollywood sci-fi about a photographer who inherits his grandfathers camera and then his life changes inexplicably. I like to imagine what these Bollywood entries would be like if they were filmed in the west sometimes...

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●○○○○○○○○

The Damned United

Michael Sheen plays another real person, in this biopic of the infamous fotball manager Brian Clough. The film doesn't overplay the soccer action, but instead focuses on the relationship between Clough and his friends when he takes on Leeds United.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●○○○○○○

Ek - The Power of One

Bollywood again. Professional assasin is mistaken for long lost cousin at wedding celebration. Really.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●○○○○○○○○

Genova

Colin Firth and his daughters are grieving the death of his wife and move to Genova to try to rebuild thier lives. Part ghost story and part essay on the process of mourning a loved one. Winterbottom's films are alwys worth a look, even if they are as minor as this one.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●○○○○○○

The Haunting in Connecticut

Do ghosts behave differently depending on where they haunt geographically? If this question has always bugged you why not watch Virginia Madsen find out.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●○○○○○○○

Knowing

Nic Cage's son has picked up long list of numbers that predict every major disaster (conveniently with casualty figures) since the 50's. The poster asks "What happens when the numbers run out?", by the look of the released pictures I say just buy more paper.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●○○○○○○○

The Life Before her Eyes

Massively delayed Uma Thurman acting vehicle about a woman reliving her past as a survivor of a high school shooting. Sounds intriguing to me, even if the American critics panned it at every opportunity.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●●○○○○○

Martyrs

Highly praised French horror film covering themes of child abuse and retribution. Director Pascal Laugier must have done something right as he's due to helm the remake of Hellraiser.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●●○○○○○

Traitor

Don Cheadle is a Special Operations officer who may have crossed the line in the field being investigated by FBI agent Guy Pearce. Only not everything is as it seems, or is it in this twisty turny thriller.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●○○○○○○

Two Lovers

Lo-fi sleeper hit from James Gray about a depressed young man choosing between two very different women. The performances have been consistently raved about, and it may even be Jaoquin Pheonix's last movie role.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●●○○○○○

Thursday, 26 March 2009

The Film Experience - Third Annual Actress Psychic Contest

I expect everyone who comes through here is aware of Nat Rogers and his incredibly exciting and all encompassing actrss psychic competition.

If not then I suggest you pop over to his blog and enter. It's all about guessing who will be the 5 nominees at next years Oscars. I've entered for the last 2 years (and been dreadful which is why I don't try doing predictions here) however it does add a little spice to the next 9 months as you boo all the films you haven't picked and cheer the ladies you have.

Go on, play along.

Alan Arkin

Happy Birthday to

Alan Arkin

75 today

Alan's been a key supporting player for most of his illustious acting career, but it took a herion junkie granpa in Little Miss Sunshine for him to return to the spotlight. Another decent film would be something though...

Wednesday, 25 March 2009

Duplicity

2009. Dir: Tony Gilroy. Starring: Clive Owen, Julia Roberts, Tom Wilkinson, Paul Giamatti and Dan Daily. ●●●○○

2009 has now begun. We, or at least I, have seen the first film among my hotly anticipated titles for the year. The good news is that Duplicity is eminently enjoyable, with zippy direction, an exciting plot and some quality performances. The bad news is that at the end of the year I probably won't remember this film at all.

It's essentially a con-film where we know the lead protangonists (Roberts and Owen) are grifting their prospectively employers (Wilkinson and Giamatti) over a top secret product being developed by the rival pharmaceutical firms. As the film goes one we are forced to question the loyalty between the two them, their bosses and ultimately whether honesty has any place in the relationahips and cut throat society we have today.

The screen play is tight and light, with a final act twist that was both unexpected and brilliant in it's eexecution, safely negating everything we've seen so far as we realise exactly who is playing whom.

The performances are of a general high standard. Wilkinson and Giamatti both give different sides of the same coin of ruthless corporate executives, and both are clearly loving every moment of it. Owen and Roberts continue from Closer with their wonderful chemistry, but also playing the expediency of their entaglement. The supporting players are all fine, with a lovely turn from Carrie Preston (Appletini in the trailer) as a shy girl who throws herself at Clive - not that I can blame her he spent large portions of the film wondering around in a towel and I for one would have thrown myself at him.

The direction was assured, as with Michael Clayton Gilroy shows us he's less interested in the flashy direction than allowing his story to unfold. All technical aspects of the film were good - although I would especially commend the Set Decoration by George DeTitta Jr as every room was as interesting as it was unique.

So I really enjoyed this movie, but to be honest there was little original or insightful to raise it to the next level. Good clean fun, that's great but that's all.

Tuesday, 24 March 2009

Personal News (22/03/09)

I've been putting this post off for a couple of days and I'm not completely sure why. The Bus has now come, and gone, I don't know if any of you saw it (I doubt it) but I'd appreciate any feedback or comments you have.

The general consensus was that it needed some serious editing, especially to the first half, and the themes of the play were so tough to sit through that few people could call themselves entertained - although they were move to consider and question the nature of society, religion and persoanl freedoms. In that way the play was an enormous success. It's reviewed at the Birmingham Post, in which mine and Paula's performances are noted as being of a high standard.

Here's a, slightly stolen, production photo as well:

I'll update on other projects next week - right now I'm still emotionally exhausted.

Trailers - State of Play

I am veyr angry. Last week my trailer was for Everlasting Moments, due to come out at the tailend of April. Only now it's release has been put back indefinitely.

Honestly April was already a rubbish month - now I've only got State of Play coming, with it's derivative trailer below. Not to mention I'm on holiday when it comes out, anyway.

Monday, 23 March 2009

Catherine Keener

Happy Birthday to

Catherine Keener

50 today

It's a special day for Catherine, and a deeply surprising one too. Who could have guessed she was 50? Not only has she been fantastic actress in the past, but she has lots of intriguing projects on the way. I'm most looking forward to The Soloist and Where the Wild Things are, and I'm sure she'll be a highlight in both of them.

Sunday, 22 March 2009

Film News (21/03/09)

Sorry it's late but I've been acting my little socks off and wasn't able to get this completed yesterday. Anyway this weeks titbits that struck me were as follows:

The One

Squeezed into a routine press release about The Company Men was the great news that Kevin Costner is currently in pre-production of The One, which he will direct and star in as well as co-write with Michael Blake. So far Costner has reinvigorated the Western twice with Dances with Wolves and Open Range, so I'm really interested to see what he can do with this tale of inheritances, carribbean cruises and 21st century pirates.

Catherine Hardwick

The Twilight and Thirteen director has turned up twice this week, with two disperate, but somehow not unexpected, projects on the go. The first was Maximum Ride, based on the novel by Jamesd Patterson about genetically altered school children with wings who are chased by werewolves. It all sounds a little involved for me, but like Twilight it has a massive inbuilt fanbase. The second, clearly showing she was upset about being shafted on The New Moon is If I Stay, also a young adult movie this time about a girl in a car crash who has to make choices about whether to live or die.

Crooked Arrows

Finally I think that too little films are made about obscure sports, so this week I was delighted to hear about this Lacrosse movie. No doubt it will focus on a coach proving him/herself by turning around a struggling team and beating the favourites in a nail biting finale. Cliched and stirring, what more could you want?

Lacrosse actually being played.

Karl Malden

Happy Birthday to

Karl Malden

97 today

Karl is a bit of a miracle. He performed opposite Marlon Brando in On the Waterfront and Streetcar Named Desire and in both of them he's great. Truly a magnificent actor to manage that.

Saturday, 21 March 2009

Jaye Davidson

Happy Birthday to

Jaye Davidson

41 today

There are few actors who have made such a huge impact in their debut role as Jaye did in The Crying Game. As Forest Whitaker's hairdressing lover there was a subtle performance of quiet grief, when the twist was revealed the role appeared to be so much more. Of course he only made one more film (the £Million paycheck of Stargate) then returned to the real world. To do that takes a lot of guts, and for that (and for being a gorgeous woman as we as a stunning man) I applaud him.

Running

I'm still not getting enough sleep, although I hope that will be remedied over the next few days.

Anyway this morning I managed 5.3 km in 30 minutes, although it's really only 10.5 kmph due to rounding.

Friday, 20 March 2009

Out this week (20/03/09)

No problems in choosing a pic this week, although some regular readers will be surprised at how little the gap is between Duplicity and the rest of the pack. I'll be honest and say some of the lukewarm - nice but not ground-breaking - reviews have toned down my anticipation a little.

The Age of Stupid

Part documentary, part animation, part Pete Postlethwaite talking directly to the camera wondering where it all went wrong before global warming went berserk. Sounds like an interesting experiment if nothing else.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●○○○○○○

Aloo Chaat

Actually a really good technicolour poster for thsi surprisingly delayed Bollywood entry. None of the hero's orthodox family approve of his girlfriend, and to show that they listen at the door in bad wigs.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●○○○○○○○○

Bottle Shock

Weren't there supposed to be 2 films coming out about the Judgement of Paris (where Californian wine was judged to be as good as the French stuff)? Anyway this is the one with the future Captain Kirk and some intriguing cameos (Dennis Farina, Freddy Rodriguez).

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●○○○○○○○

Dimished Capacity

The first of the Alan Alda double bill sees him as Matthew Broderick's Alzeheimer's afflicted uncle in this return to home town and learn about yourself dramedy.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●○○○○○○○

Duplicity

Julia Roberts, Clive Owen, cracking dialogue and twisty turny direction. Gotta be this weeks must see. This also marks the first true film of 2009 that I'm actually looking forward to seeing at the cinema.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●●●○○○○

Flash of Genius

Alan Alda returns, this time as a crusty lawyer who helps Greg Kinnear in his quest for recognition for inventing the intermittent windscreen wiper. What could be boring and procedural is livened by Kinnear's natural dogged performance.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●●○○○○○

Il Divo

Winner of the Jury prize at last years Cannes, this murky look into the double dealing and corruption of Itailian politics is a fascinating counterview of the Mafia to follow Gomorrah. Plenty of fans so should be worth seeing too.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●○○○○○○

Lesbian Vampire Killers

Cordon and Horne go the way of other infamous British television comedians like Moore and Cook, Ant and Dec and Mitchell and Webb in making an atrocious film. Stick to Gavin & Stacey lads, please.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●○○○○○○○○

Paul Blart: Mall Cop

I am surprisingly curious about this, after all it's the highest grossing film in the US this year, there must be some reason for that...

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●○○○○○○

William Hurt

Happy Birthday to

William Hurt

59 today

Hurt is difficult to pin down as an actor. In the 80's he had an incredible run of powerhouse performances, including Body Heat and Kiss of the Spiderwoman. The Nineties were a bit dry but he's reasserted himself critically and commercially over the last couple of years (with History of Violence and The Incredible Hulk respectively). Nothing exciting coming up, mind.

Thursday, 19 March 2009

Running

Before you judge me, and my inadequate performance this morning, let it be known I had less than 5 hours sleep, and it was really foggy.

Saying that 5.2 km in 31 minutes (10.2kmph) is still pretty atrocious.

Wednesday, 18 March 2009

Marley & Me

2008. Dir: David Frankel. Starring: Owen Wilson, Jennifer Aniston, Eric Dane, Alan Arkin and Kathleen Turner. ●●○○○

I will admit I had high levels of anticipation for this scruffy dog tale adapted from the scribblings of Journo John Grogan and pieced together by David Frankel. I was looking forward to it because a) I go all gooey when I see Labradors and b) Frankel has coped well with this sort of background before and whilst The Devil Wears Prada is set against the backdrop of high fashion it is still adapted from real experiences.

However I sat there watching the film and thinking “Why have they made this? Who is it for? What is the film trying to say?” I only ask these because it simply does not appear to be about a Labrador.

Instead it’s a life affirming piece about the Grogan (Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston) family as they learn to appreciate each other, have children and move from Miami to a massive house in Philadelphia. Its main concept seems to be the promotion of the family unit, that the family requires sacrifice and deep understanding of each other, that love is hard work but it’s worth it.

That’s all very noble, and I’ve seen some very good films that focus on that but this isn’t one of them. For instance the screenplay forces in comparisons between Grogan’s life and that of his high school friend Sebastian (Eric Dane) who has greater journalistic ambition, but seems to lose out on family. I say the screenplay forces this is because we are never given the chance to appreciate Sebastian’s life except through the eyes of Grogan, and therefore we don’t know if there is any satisfaction in his alternative lifestyle.

In short the film doesn’t do enough to make us like the human characters; the miscarriage scene is glib, we never get an idea of what Aniston has given up to be a stay at home Mum, or what Wilson leaves behind to focus on being a columnist. In the midst of all this is Marley, who is not so much a catalyst for the changes but a holy fool, pulling over tables in one scene then protectively watching over the family in the next.

The biggest crime of all is that I left the film, with reddened eyes from the last scenes (but no spoilers here), but with no real appreciation of what life is like when you have a dog. I have two beautiful mongrels, but if I did not then this film would not have let me know how loving and generous a dog is, or how much impact they have on your life.

No member of the cast or crew stands out to me as having been bad, although likewise few are good. Alan Arkin makes an impression in the underwritten part of Grogan Miami editor, and Kathleen Turner is virtually unrecognisable as a dog trainer.

In the final analysis I can only advise, ignore this doggie doo, and go take a real puppy for a walk in the park – you’ll learn so much more and have a greater emotional connection.

Brad Dourif

Happy Birthday to

Brad Dourif

59 today

Brad had so much promise in the early part of his career, following his rave notices for One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, however he was content with gimmicky horrors and a virtual cameo in Lord of the Rings. Although he does have a couple of Herzog movies on his slate so maybe we'll once again see what he can do.

Tuesday, 17 March 2009

Trailers - Maria Larsson's Everlasting Moments

I'm a bit of an odd fish when it comes to movie choices - whilst I don't really fit into the blockbuster hypers, I'm equally not a true indie darling. Most of the films I go for have solid pedigree, are mainly dramatic types and may even have a Oscar speech or two in preparation. As a result I tend not to see many foreign language films.

However I will be seeing Maria Larssons eviga ögonblick as it does hit all 3 of my triggers:

Directed by Jan Troell (The Emigrants) and starring Maria Heiskanen (Miehen työ) and Jesper Christensen (Quantum of Solace, The Interpreter).
Turn of the century biopic about a victim of domestic violence who frees herself through her camera.
Was in the final 9 for the Best Foreign Language Oscar, but sadly missed out on a nomination.

Enjoy the trailer, and let me know what you think.

Gary Sinise

Happy Birthday to

Gary Sinise

54 today

Gary is that rarest of rare things - a right leaning actor. He even contributed to the election campaign of John McCain. Still a fine actor though, even if he is onl on TV these days.

Monday, 16 March 2009

Running

So today I'm taking a bit of a sickie. The show opened at the weekend - more on that later - and for most of the weekend I was a stinking wreck, coughing a sneezing all over the place. With a sweaty sleepless night in the middle (no jokes that was purely due to a temperature). I'm still a bit chesty so I decided to take the day off work, or skive if you want to put it that way. It's a toughie as I'm probably well enough to work, but I feel cheated out of my weekend.

Anyway I've just gone out for a long run (I know that's a stupid thing to do with a cold, but lahdidah) 10 miles in 1 hour 35 minutes. That's 6.3 mph or 10.1 kmph which is the slowest I've been in a while but I blame this bug.

Sunday, 15 March 2009

Judd Hirsch

Happy Birthday to

Judd Hirsch

74 today

To the great comedic actor and star of Taxi, hope you're having a great day. I'm loving your TV work but when are you gonna do another movie?

Saturday, 14 March 2009

Film News (14/03/09)

Quite a quiet week, with few major press releases. There was a flurry of box office news, but so far only really for the US and I'll be putting that in a single round-up at the end of the month if it translates into UK release dates.

Indian Summer

Alex von Tunzelmann biographical story about the end of the British rule in India, the politics and players at the time, and the rumoured love affair between Lady Mountbatten and Nehru has been picked up by Working Title and Paramount with Joe Wright (Atonement) set to direct. It's a pretty complicated tale, and a fascinating piece of history. So if anyone can carefully combine the elements of romance against the playing out of history I'm sure Wright can.

Crazy Eddie

Last year there was a rumour that Danny DeVito was about to pick up the megaphone with The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. With that project disappearing into a pre-production drawer somewhere he has instead attached himself to the story of Eddie Antar, who built an empire of electrical goods retailers, only to see it crashing down around him when he was caught fiddling the books. He has since found himself in jail with a $150m bill.

Warrior

The ultimate fighting film has found an interesting international cast with Nick Nolte signing on with Joel Edgerton and Tom Hardy as his sons trained in the ring. Hardy has just made a big splash with Bronson and I'm sure this sort of thing will be a breeze for him. Once agin I'm not really interested in the plot of this one - just the sight of buff guys punching each other. What can I do?

Running

4.2 km in 23 minutes. That's 11.2 kmph.

Went on a different route today - through a local nature park. Forgot there was a big hill in th middle of it - absolute killer - was almost walking when I go to the top, but I suppose it's all good. Very short run though...

Michael Caine

Happy Birthday to

Michael Caine

76 today

Maurice Micklewhite has had more career resurgents than I've had hot dinners, thanks to his habit of doing stretches of bad films followed by a great one. Right now he's on a roll, his last film being The Dark Knight, but nothing coming up is making me terrible confident.

Friday, 13 March 2009

Out this week (13/03/09)

Not a classic week, with most of the films being low profile or just plain meh! Personally I'm going to see Marley and Me (I know I know but he's so cute...) however the recommended choice for the week will have to be The Burning Plain.

Alone

Turkish film, about a tentative romance between a chef and a girl he meets in a bookshop, with so-so reviews, and no stars. Why is it getting 3 blobs, I hear you ask? Because there were already 3 blobs here, and I can't be bothered to change it.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●○○○○○○○

Bronson

Festival darling; part biopic, part art film, with a tour de force central performance from Tom Hardy as the frankly insane British prisoner Charles Bronson.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●○○○○○○○

The Burning Plain

For a few seconds it looked like this fractured tale of the reunion of mother and daughter following a difficult childhood, from the writer of 21 Grams and Babel, might just be a dark horse contender in the Oscars. It wasn't but watching Charlize beign destitute is always good fun.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●●●○○○○

Hush

Is this the British version of Roadkill? Find out as a bickering couple see a carjack victim naked in the back of a lorry and then decide to help out - no doubt with bloody violent consequences.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●○○○○○○○

In the City of Sylvia

Reasonably praise surrounds this film about a man looking for a girl he once knew. Lots of watching and waiting, but apparently ascends the simple premise.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●○○○○○○

Marley and Me

Dull reviews and predictable plotting be damned - you just can't keep a good labrador down; especially when teamed with an ex-friend and the equally huggable Owen Wilson.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●○○○○○○

Vali

I think there must be a Turkish film festival on somewhere as this is the second film this week from the region. Based on a true story of corruption in the energy sector and the subsequent murder of a local Governor.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●○○○○○○○

Wonderful Town

Romance betwen a classes and societal interference that goes with that against the backdrop of the South East Asia Tsunami.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●○○○○○○○

William H. Macy

Happy Birthday to

William H. Macy

59 today

Cheer up Bill, it's your birthday. Why not spend it watching The Cooler, Fargo, Mabnolia, or maybe just chilling with Felicity.

Thursday, 12 March 2009

Trailers - Duplicity

I did think that by now Duplicity would have released a second trailer. They haven't but it's still a zinger.

Out next week, starring Julia Roberts and Clive Owen, it's a tale of corporate espionage and trust in a relationship built on lies. Sounds like fun.

By the way I know I normally do trailers on Tuesday, but I had a bit of a funny turn, reviewed Requiem for a Dream a day early then couldn't be bothered to fix it.

Running

Just a quick one when I got back from the office.

4.9 km in 26 minutes, or 11.3 kmph.

Wednesday, 11 March 2009

Terrence Howard

Happy Birthday to

Terrence Howard

40 today

It is, apparently, hard out there as a pimp. That may be the case but Howard's finding it just as hard as an actor - with the big money cheque for Iron Man (Yes, he really was the highest paid actor in that) cancelled for the sequel his slate is looking abit empty. Maybe a cut in salary demands and a return to indie fare may be the best thing.

Tuesday, 10 March 2009

Requiem for a Dream

2000. Dir: Darren Aronofsky. Starring: Ellen Burstyn, Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly, Marlon Wayans and Christopher McDonald. ●●●●●

How do you begin to review a film like Requiem for a Dream, the seminal drugs movie from Darren Aronofsky? Do you talk about it's intense fluid screenplay, the lead quartets superb performances or the energetic editing?

Let's start by describing the bare bones of the plot. It follows four characters as they move from Summer, when they are optimistic about their chances and futures, toward the Winter when everything has gone horribly wrong. Each of these characters - Harry (Leto), his mother (Burstyn), his girlfriend (Connelly) and his best mate/business partner (Wayans) - downfall can be attributed to their addictions to narcotics. Indeed it's probably true to say their addiction is borne on the desperation to achieve their long terms goals, be it weight loss or opening a boutique.

Yet the film is so much more than this. Because of the structure we begin by seeing the crack and weed the characters take as enhancing their lives. Through the have of the highs Harry is able to rationally decide his future, to plan and assess what actions need to be taken in the long term. He also has an awareness of the dangers of the drugs themselves and how they will turn him, at various points in the film he tries to prevent the others from taking a hit, but in each time he fails. Of course then plans are built on a house of cards, and once one card goes the whole thing swiftly falls apart.

It works because we identify with Harry so much - we want and believe he will succeed. When fate takes it's course we're screaming at him to just walk away from it all, however as with all tragic heroes his character flaw is such that he cannot walk away, but instead buries himself deeper into the quagmire of the situation.

I has so far concentrated on Leto's layered performance, however all of the leads are magnificent. Wayans shows heights he's never hit, or even seemingly tried for, since. Burstyn's role as the TV addict, who gets hooked on diet pills is an incredibly uninhibated performance. And talkign about inhabitions Connelly loses all of hers, and in retrospect won her Oscar for this - not for the saccharine Beautiful Mind inscribed on the statuette.

Aronofsky shows himself as a master of the cinema as he orchestrates the entwinning stories. Although he is expertly aided by Jay Rabinowitz (Affliction, I'm not There) on Editing duties. And of course that haunting, fearsome origainl score by Clint Mansell (performed by the Kronos String Quartet) - it's music so descriptive and powerful it's since become a staple for trailers.

There are flaws in the piece - Wayan's relationship with his mother isn't given the treatment it fully deserves, some of sara Goldfarbs hallucinations seem to be powered more by the need to shock rather than to support the storyline. However this remains the best film to ever capture how drugs will suck you in with good times before spitting you out in the bad.

Running

It's slightly depressing to think I was doing so well at the wekend, but this morning I only managed 4.5 km in 25 minutes, which at 10.5 kmph is OK, but it's not close to what I was achieving at the weekend.

Monday, 9 March 2009

Personal News (08/03/09)

Albeit published on 09 March as I was far too busy going to bed after yesterdays rehearsal for The Bus. Tickets are still available by the way. It is also worth knowing, if you're a bit of a starf**ker, that we are expecting an oscar nominated actor to be attending one of the performances, so for a chance to rub shoulders with the stars do come along.

As well as 3 evening rehearsals in the week, yesterday we had 2 run throughs. It's an exhausting play for me - I run around the stage like a looney for most of it - so by the time we had finished I was seriously ready for bed. In between the runs we had a lunch break where all the other members of the cast went off to the pub/bit of shopping however I spent the hour experimenting and practicing with make-up effects for the 3rd Act (although it's actually the second half of the 4th act). I have included a picture of my made up face after the jump - however it is a minor spoiler so no peeking if you want the end to be a surprise.

I have also received the script for Deep Self. This is the new film by Peter Pallister, who directed Could be Brothers the World War 2 short I was in before Christmas. Deep Self concerns a medical trial on the effects of flotation tanks on the mind, it's set in the hospital facility and also follows a trip sequence. I play the guy undertaking the trial, which should be a fun role. However I am dreading some of the filming - there seems to be a scene that involves nudity and swimming in a lake. Now I have no problems with nudity or swimming, however we're shooting during April and I don't want little Ben to be very little Ben! Anyone got any ideas?

Juliette Binoche

Happy Birthday to

Juliette Binoche

45 today

Certainly one of the most naturally beautiful and talented actresses today. An capable of just going off on a modern dance tour at a moments notice. What a goddess.

Sunday, 8 March 2009

Running

Like Nero, who fiddled as Rome burned, I'm running more as we get closer to opening night. It's an extreme example but I'm sure you understand.

4.9 km in 26 minutes or 11.1 kmph.

Saturday, 7 March 2009

Film News (07/03/09)

It's been a pretty odd week for news, nothing on Monday or Tuesday. Loads on Wednesday then 2 more days of nothing. What's going on? Have all the Hollywood PR chaps on parttime hours to help the studios during the credit crunch. Anyhoo here we go:

Downsizing

Now this is strange, but hopefully in a good way, Alexander Payne (Election, About Schmidt, Sideways) has settled on Downsizing as his next film and will be working with his stars from two of those: Paul Giamatti and Reese Witherspoon. The weird this about this is the somewhat unusual plot - Giamatti, in a bout of depression regarding his debt, decides to shrink himself. Now Payne's films have in the passed looked at extreme characters in a Universe we understand, so this sort of wacky premise may just be fascinating, or it may just flop.

In the Heart of the Sea

Ed Zwick is following Defiance with this historically accurate story of a whaling ship that gets stalked by a sperm whale, apparenly the basis of Moby Dick. Who's betting there will be a scene where the whale appears through the fog?

Inception

The 2010 summer tent pole (sci-fi genre bender from Christopher Nolan) has gained Leonardo DiCaprio, alledgedly, and (and this really is just a random rumour) Ellen Page. Great cast, great director, will flop I expect.

Ultima, Bless Me

This film (which involves a growing pains of a boy growing in a New Mexico during the sceond world war) is only really interesting because it's being bankrolled by Walmart, the massive supermarket chain in America. This is an odd one because I hate everything Walmart stands for (locking their staff in at night, making staff work in all departments to put off the fatties) however the central relationshiop in the film is between the boy and an Elderly Medicine woman - so that's got to be worth seeing, right?

Running

Another big one today - 12.95 km in 1 hour 12 minutes. That's 10.8 kmph - which makes it sound like I cheated or something.

Rachel Weisz

Happy Birthday to

Rachel Weisz

38 today

Yes, the English Rose that is Mrs. Darren Aronofsky is celbrating her 38th today. Congratulations. She's actually got quite a busy year ahead of her what with Lovely Bones and (if it happens) Dirt Music. I shall definitely be lining up to see her work this year.

Friday, 6 March 2009

Out this week (06/03/09)

If you go to see any of the 5 blob films this week I think you'll enjoy it. However whilst both Wendy and Lucy and The Young Victoria sound like tremendous films there is only one event movie this week - I guess we'll all be watching the Watchmen.

Flame and Citron

Danish movie about the resistance to Nazi occupation during the second world war. Flame and Citron are code names for 2 fighters (one with very red hair, the other with a lemon shaped head(!?)). In the vein of Black Book.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●○○○○○○○

Reverb

The first plot synopsis I read about this made me think of a more sincere version of The Rocker, rock musician wants to get his careern back on track blah blah, except that it's actually a british horror movie. Run away.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●○○○○○○○○

Secret of Kells

European cartoon about a bot who runs from his strict monastic upbringing to illustrate and complete the famed book of Kells. Might be an interesting one to take the kids to.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●○○○○○○

Surveillance

Jennifer Lynch is back back back, with a rashomon styled look at a serial killer spree/motorway pile up. Julia Ormond appears in her third release in 2009, you never would have guessed that would you?

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●○○○○○○○○

Watchmen

Certainly one of the most anticipated titles of 2009. But will this adaptation of the most influential and well written graphic novel of the 20th century be able to balance the need for adhering to the plot and making it accessible to a new audience?

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●●○○○○○

Wendy and Lucy

Wendy (Michelle Williams) takes her dog (Lucy) and drives to Alaska to find work. When her car breaks down and Lucy disappears she has to make tough decisions about her priorities.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●●○○○○○

The Young Victoria

Who would have beleived it would take the producing pair of Martin Scorcese and Sarah Ferguson to recruit Jean-Marc Vallee (C.R.A.Z.Y) to direct this dissection of the early years of Queen Victoria. Solid cast and sumptious sets make this one to watch.

Runs like a Gay Excitometer: ●●●●●○○○○○

Thursday, 5 March 2009

Running

I've been running, and by crikey do I know it.

15.7 km in 1 hour 34 minutes. Which averages out as more or less exactly 10 kmph.

I'm sooo tired, now.

Dean Stockwell

Happy Birthday to

Dean Stockwell

73 today

Whether you like Dean for his cutesy child actor period, his maturing into an young man in Compulsion and Long Days Journey into Night, or in forays into comedy and sci-fi in the 80's you've got to admit he's a right blast. I'd want him by my side when I Quantum Lept any day.

Wednesday, 4 March 2009

Gran Torino

2008. Dir: Clint Eastwood. Starring: Clint Eastwood, Christopher Carley, Bee Vang, Ahney Her and Brian Haley. ●●○○○

Way back when the AMPAS used to give three awards for writers, for Screenplay, Motion Picture Story, and Story and Screenplay. I'm not sure how these match up with the current original and adapted screenplay awards, but I like to think that Motion Picture story is an award for a film with a great idea that somehow doesn't come to fruition. This year it would easily go to Gran Torino.

The film concerns an elderly Korean War Vet (Eastwood) who slowly befriends his Hmong neighbours, or at least the younger generation (Vang and Her) and seeks redemption from his past by protecting them from the local gangs. Indeed the payoff, a final shootout in front of the gangbanger house, is nicely set up echoing themes and actions that take place in the rest of the film and subverting the audiences expectations.

The problem is that whilst the idea, from a story by Dave Johannson and Nick Schnenk is bothced in the adaptation, and the strength of the acting just isn't up to the task of rescuing the film. For instance when in doubt they give Eastwood's Walt Kowalski and low grunt, like a abbreviated form of Victor Meldrew's "I don't believe it". However it get used so much and so flatly it's difficult to ascertain what the grunts actually mean to Walt, if indeed he means anything beyond breathing out.

The use of racial slurs by Walt is necessary, and sometimes strangely affecting (such as his nickname for Choua Kue's Youa), but the point is hammered home rather too much so that I personally began to feel offence.

Many of the supporting characters are underwritten or one dimensional. Walt's family, for instance, come across as distant and unwilling to bridge the emotional gap with their father, however they were demonised in almost every scene, perhaps if they were seen to be trying to connect but fail we would have ultimately felt more for Walt's throughline.

Bee Vang and Abney Her as the brother and sister Walt gets to know are competent actors but nothing special, especially when sharing the screen with Clint, who lets face it is almost always the centre of attention. Perhaps I would have enjoyed the film more if it was all about the Lor family. Vang and Her offered enough in their scenes without Clint to make me feel the siblings had more dimensions (Thau's reaction to the Mexican insults, Sue's attitude to her date), and I would have like to have seen more of the way they ilived their daily lives.

Good work by the Gary Fettis on Set Docroation, both the Kowalski and Lor households had a lived in and believable feel to them. The rest of the technical team were solid but not spectacular.

Overall the film just wasn't good enough for it's interesting and original concept.

Tuesday, 3 March 2009

Trailers - Life Before Her Eyes

After the news last month that Life Before her Eyes will actually be seen in UK cinemas I've decided it will be this weeks trailer. I don't suppose it's going to burn the box office down, especially after it's damp squib of a US release but I'm still intrigued.

Running

I suppose I should just say to hell with it and set up a training programme, but for now I'm enjoying the hole running without any clear goals.

So this morning I ran 7.8 km in 46 minutes, which is a not terribly impressive 10.2kmph.

Monday, 2 March 2009

Jennifer Jones

Happy Birthday to

Jennifer Jones

90 today

Last seen falling from the exterior lift in The Towering Inferno, Jennifer was one of the biggest stars of the 1940's and 50's, famously married to David O. Selznick.

Sunday, 1 March 2009

Personal News (01/03/09)

The Bus creeps ever closer, to the point when I'm getting petrified about it now. Over the week we've had three run throughs and none of them have really gone (for me) as well as I would have liked. I have been looking at some of my lines more though and I think I understand them more than I have done up to hear, and I'm trying new things with the way I'm performing which is (hopefully) good.

Last night I performed in The Jealous Bride, which was a Murder Mystery evening performed to a Hen Night. I played Captain Horatio Weckter, and my job essentially was o guide the players through the game. It was a really fun evening both for me, and for the girls who were there. I'm hoping to do some more, so if you want to book one for any sort of corporate event then please contact Murder Mystery Meals.

Javier Bardem

Happy Birthday to

Javier Bardem

40 today

Isn't that a great photo. I have nothing else really to say, except that Javier always makes a film worth seeing, can't wait for Biutiful.

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