Don Jon

The Male Rom-Com


Director: Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Release Date: 2013

Rating: 18

Running Time: 90 mins

Genre: Comedy/Romance

Actors: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Scarlet Johanson, Julianne Moore

'There are only a few things I really care about in life, my body, my pad, my ride, my family, my church, my boys, my girls, my porn.'

Joseph Gordon-Levit makes his debut as a writer/directer in this controversial yet altogether enjoyable film about a man battling an addiction to pornography, whilst trying to win the heart of incredibly seductive Scarlet Johanson who wants her life to be like the ones she sees in romantic movies. The film attacks the rom-com genre from a whole new and fresh angle focussing mainly on the male figure who is very much an outsider to falling in love or even just settling down.

Don Jon combines smart wit and humour to form a film that everyone can relate to in one way or another. JGL gives a brilliant performance in his first film as a director showing just how capable the young auteur is. I hope the films by Joey keep on coming because if they can top Don Jon, then he is really onto a winner. I found the directing and editing in this film to be very professional and altogether genius for a début, furthermore the acting was also highly inventive and enjoyable from everyone, so much so that I didn't want the film to end. I suppose there's only so much that a film about a man with a pornography addiction can tell us, but I found it, despite being slightly plotless, it was still one of the best films I'd seen all year and in a way, I wish it had actually lasted for a bit longer. I liked the way that throughout the whole film we follow JGL through his routine that he states at the start and what works so effectively about this is how the continuously follow on in order from one another and the camera for each one doesn't change it's position each time and shows it being exactly the same, captivating this monotonous OCD routine that he's found himself in. For a first time director it's understandable that this would be hard to do and pull off not only successfully but meaningfully so the audience are able to pick up on it, which of course allowed all of it to add to the comedy aspect of the film.

Well done Joey, a triumphant début.

7/10

The Departed

Cat Vs Rat

Director: Martin Scorsese
Release Date: 2006
Rating: 18
Running Time: 
Genre: Crime/ Gangster/ Thriller
Actors: Leonardo Dicaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson, Martin Sheen, Mark Whallberg

'Go ahead and shoot a cop Einstein, see what happens'.

After eleven years, Martin Scorsese returns to the gangster genre of cinema, set in the modern day to mark his third collaboration with  Leonardo Dicaprio  after 'The Aviator' (2004) and 'Gangs of New York' (2002). Combined with suspense, action and a tremendous ensemble cast, 'The Departed' is Scorsese's finest film since his final collaboration with Robert DeNiro and Joe Pesci in 1995 with 'Casino' and of course the legendary 'Goodfellas' five years before that.

Thrown undercover to try and infiltrate and Irish gang, stated cop Billy (Dicaprio) must earn the trust of big time mobster and psychotic Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson) whilst at the same time trying to uncover Franks gang's intentions and locate the mole in the police force. Both sides race to find the other's rat creating a tense and incredible film.

For me, this was Dicaprio's finest role in one of Scorsese's films, and arguably one of the best of his career. After working with some top dog directors such as Danny Boyle, James Cameron, Stephen Speilberg and most recently Quentin Tarantino, there must be something about Scorsese in particular that keeps on drawing DiCaprio back. In particular with 'The Departed' I think it can be said that Scorsese managed to lay out such a deep and twisting storyline there are many aspects of this film to appreciate. Furthermore who could turn down a role starring alongside the great Jack Nicholson who once again is able to play the villain the audiences love to hate. Straight away we see Nicholson strut onto the screen at the start to The Rolling Stones' 'Gimmie Shelter', a song Scorsese uses in many of his gangster films which just oozes coolness. And then there's the fast paced cat and mouse chase between Matt Damon and Leonardo Dicaprio, that for a long time, is hard to see who is who. Mark Whallberg plays the funny-no bullshit sidekick of Martin Sheen that gives the film that touch of comedy during such a tough plot line. The film also features roles from stars Alec Baldwin and Ray Winston to make up a truly awe inspiring cast, but I suppose who could turn down the opportunity to be in a Scorsese film.

However, it think it can be argued that quite a few people feel slightly turned away from 'The Departed' given how it is in fact a remake of the 2002 Hong Kong film 'Infernal Affairs'. Yet nevertheless, I find this film very hard to fault and would strongly urge audiences to check it out. The acting, the stars, the thrilling and tense narrative, it's hard to say what's not to like about this film. Another first class winner from the legendary Martin Scorsese once again.

9/10

The Wave

If You Were Asked To Do Something, Would You Do It?




Director: Dennis Gansel

Release Date: 2008

Rating: 15

Running Time: 107 mins

Genre: Drama/Thriller

Actors: Jurgen Voler,Frederick Lau, Max Reimelt

I think it's fair to say that when it comes to German cinema, I can hold my hands up and say I am not all that familiar with it all that well. Although I must add that from the few films I've seen I have learnt a lot about German culture, values and history and I must say that it goes very under the radar in British culture, which in a sense is actually stopping us from realising just how interesting and enjoyable it can actually be. Furthermore I must add that this doesn't just apply to German cinema, but world cinema in general. I find that most people prefer the American and British Hollywood Blockbusters, which are not bad by any means, but after a while, foreign cinema offers and alternative, fresh approach to film viewing.

I found Wolfgang Becker's 'Goodbye Lenin!' (2003) to be highly educational and fascinating as it helps portray the events of the 90's after the fall of the Berlin Wall and impact it had on East Germany. Furthermore I also found it be a film packed with a gripping story line with compelling scenes of romance, comedy and family values that are similar to that of British society. So naturally when it came to watching 'The Wave', or 'Die Welle' as it is referred to in German, I tried to be as open minded as possible about the German language and the overall storyline, which I must say, as predicted, was highly sophisticated and intriguing.

The film allows the audience to see the Westernised Germany in the modern day, and take a look at the guilt that many Germans still bare after the effect that Nazism and WWII had on everyone. It was also able to capture the ignorance of some people when it came to the topic of fascism, and indeed beg the question of whether in a democratic society, could people be transformed once again into following a dictatorship similar to that of Nazi party whereby uniform and fascist organisation was followed.

Set in only one week, one German secondary school teacher, Rainer Wenger, decides to show his students what it would be like to be living in a dictatorship where uniformity is followed and obeyed. What starts out as a harmless experiment, it's easy to see how fascism is still not only possible but with the right encouragement and instruction, still very possible. 'The Wave' is a very political and incredibly controversial film when it comes discussing the political aspects of German history as it is still most likely a bit too close to home for some people, even in other countries. But nevertheless I think this is one of the key reasons why this film works so well and can be well credited, we are made to consider what's still possible and how easily with the right words we can change just like that. I suppose in many aspects 'The Wave' can be closely linked to William Goulding's 'Lord of the Flies' through the way it captures the slow break down of humanity and shows us the darker side that everyone possess and in that sense it's a very powerful concept.

Despite it all being in German, I found the acting to be superbly done and very believable, which is especially good given that most of the cast were still only teenagers when the film was made. For me it was a completely unknown cast, but I must say that Jurgen Vogel, despite never seeing him before, gave an enjoyable and interesting performance as the likeable yet controversial Rainer Wenger. A role that had me both shocked and inspired at.

I think 'The Wave' is certainly a film that audiences should check out, as it is highly enjoyable. Yet however it must be added that it is not the easiest of films to watch, it's message and the morals that it carry's will sit with you long after it's finished due to it's immense impact. The film will make you see that even though it's set in Germany, these issues can be possible pretty much anywhere and could therefore be indicating as well that we are all capable of doing things under certain leaders, and should we always listen to and do what we are told? Perhaps not the happiest of films but powerfully fascinating all the same.

6/10

The 40 Year Old Virgin

Hilarious, Outrageous and Straight Up Cringeworthy

Director: Judd Apatow

Release Date: 2005

Rating: 15

Running Time: 126 mins

Genre: Comedy

Starring: Steve Carell, Seth Rogen, Paul Rudd

'Yeah well virgin isn't a dirty word but you know what is a dirty word, asshole, and that's what you guys are!'

In the film that started the 'From the guys that brought you' series and let onto 'Suberbad' and 'Knocked Up' we see Judd Apatow team up once again with Steve Carell, Paul Rudd and Seth Rogen after 'Anchorman' a year previously, to create one of the funniest American comedies of the decade. I think this film get's heavily overlooked and may people therefore are unaware of just how funny and romantic the film actually is.

When uptight electronics store salesman Andy confesses in a drunken poker game that he is 40 years old and still a virgin his friends vow to help him get back out there and find love by teaching him how to live, what it is to be a man and naturally, how to get laid. I'm sure even if people haven't seen the film there are one or two scenes people will be very familiar with such as when Andy is made by his friends to try and become more 'sexy', and by doing so is taken to get his chest waxed. This scene is so typically American in terms of how the camera will leave nothing to the imagination and make sure the audience is a grossed out as they can be.

In 'The 40 Year Old Virgin', we pretty much see the characters playing themselves but in a way that's so fantastically funny. For me, this film would not be the same without Jane Lynch's dry yet likeable role of Paula, the owner of the electronics store, she's so wonderfully funny and stern you can't not love her for it. Basically every character in the electronic store will make you laugh in at least one part of the film and I would actually hold my hands up and say that if they made a sequel to this film, I would go and see it, purely just to see more of the characters together again. I'd especially want to see Romany Malco, who plays Jay return, as since this film, he hasn't starred in any Apatow comedies, which given his performance in 'The 40 Year Old Virgin' is a great shame as he's one of the best things about it.

This film is definitely not one to watch as a family, due to it's highly crude and altogether cringey moments, but nevertheless if you have never seen it, I think it's certainly one to watch if you're in the mood for a laugh. What's so good about these American comedies is you can watch it again and again and still find it funny given that there are so many little touches audiences will miss the first time and pick up on in the second to make it all the more entertaining.

A true comedy masterpiece that will never seize to get old.

8/10

Seven Psychopaths

Stranger Than Fiction

Director: Martin McDonagh

Release Date: 2012

Rating: 15

Running Time: 110 mins

Genre: Comedy/Crime/Thriller

Actors: Collin Farrall, Sam Rockwell, Christopher Walken, Woody Harrelson

'You don't just give back a kidnapped dog, it defeats the entire purpose of the kidnapping.'

Martin McDonaghs collaborates with Colin Farrall once again after his highly successful British 'indie' comedy 'In Bruges'. Despite being set in America this film focuses massively on the dark comedy that British audience's love to see in what can only be described as a work of genius in British cinema.

When Marty (Colin Farrell) is having trouble finding inspiration for his new Screenplay 'Seven Psychopaths' his friend Billy (Sam Rockwell) helps him try and find some inspiration and consequently the two of them end up getting caught up in a sticky situation with some real life psychopaths. With wit and fast pace action throughout, 'Seven Psychopaths' offers an indie approach to film narrative finding a balance between violence and pacifism as well as reality and imagination forming a weird yet wonderful story of friendship and romance...tied in with a ton of violence and swearing from seven pretty intriguing, humourous and deranged psychopaths. 

Colin Farrall and Sam Rockwell in this film are just hysterically brilliant and to make it even better they threw Christopher Walken and Woody Harrelson into the film as well to form one of the best ensemble casts in years. All four actors bring something slightly different to the film but they all compliment each other so well. In particular one scene taking place somewhere in the desert on a camping trip we see Farrell, Rockwell and Walken try and brainstorm the screenplay for 'seven psychopaths' which is just highly enjoyable to watch, you can't not love and appreciate Rockwell's enthusiasm, Farrall's dry outlook and Walkens sheers presence in the scene, great work lads.

It's good to view 'Seven Psychopaths' with an open mind and go in as blind as you can as I can guarantee it will not be what you were expecting but it might even be a tiny bit better. It's very rare I watch a film and then straight away want to put it right back to the beginning and re-watch it straight away but there was so much that drew me into this one. The comedy, the action, the settings, the use of there being a story within a story, it made for a truly memorable and enjoyable film definitely worth checking out. You may even shed a tear in parts, as despite all the comedy, 'seven psychopaths' does hold a couple of moving moments to make it a very well rounded film.

8/10

The Family

A Family Film About The Mob

Director: Luc Besson

Release Date: 2013

Rating: 15

Running Time: 111 mins

Genre: Comedy / Gangster / Action

Actors: Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer, Tommy Lee Jones

'Al Capone always said, asking a man politely holding a gun is always better than just asking a man politely.'

Robert De Niro returns once again to our screens in this fresh and  modernized gangster movie with a twist, produced by the ever incredible Martin Scorsese. Though 'The Family' was not directed by Marty, the films got his trademarks all over them. From the Mafia culture, violence, way of settling 'business' and love for pasta, to the characters sitting down to watch a screening of the 90's gangster classic 'Goodfellas' directed by Scorsese, the films wrapped up and riddled with 'Scorsese stamps' that can be smelt from a mile away.

Thrown into the witness protection programme after things back home in Brooklyn go horribly wrong, Giovanni Manzoni and his family are sent into hiding in a quiet little rustic village in Normandy, France where nothing could ever possibly go wrong, enter the Manzoni family. With tongue and cheek violence throughout, the film combines aspects of the Italian-American gangster lifestyle and very dark comedy to form this very interesting and altogether entertaining film.

The acting in this film cannot really go uncredited as it's fantastic start to finish from all the cast. De Niro's performance doesn't need any defending as he is able to, as usual, deliver a knock-out performance as yet again another gangster we can't help but want to love. It has to be said it's nice for people of my generation to have a chance seeing De Niro on the big screen in a gangster movie after such a long time, cheers Bobby, you never fail to disappoint. One particularly brilliant scene that stands out is between Robert De Niro and FBI Agent Tommy Lee Jones and despite not being that long, it felt similar to 'Heat' with Robert De Niro and Al Paccino when they came face to face. It does have to be noted that despite playing a gangster, De Niro was playing a father as well, which at his age of seventy, he wasn't actually that bad and pulled off a believable role of being in the midst of fathering two teenagers.

It's got to be said as well the Michelle Pfeiffer pulled off a very believable Mafia wife and she managed to get involved in her share of violence and adopt the gangster way of life. The children in the film were also great to watch, the daughter, played by Dianne Agron took on a role ten years younger than her actual age of twenty-seven  but nevertheless gave a believable performance as part of this overly violent family, she's come along way from her character in Glee. Despite not really seeing the son in anything else I reckon John D'Leo has got a lot of potential as he too was unfaultable in the film, playing a character much more mature and capable than we first see at the start.

I found the film could've perhaps been better if it was able to maybe answer a few more questions at the end rather than resolve it in the way that was chosen. In typical Scorsese fashion, the film probably could've gone on for a bit longer and used that time to give a bit more of an explanation as the climax and ending did feel slightly rushed. What's more it would've been good to see more of a father/son relationship like there was a mother/daughter relationship, after all the film is called 'The Family'. But none the less, it is altogether a very enjoyable film and is one that is able to invite a bigger variety of audience into the gangster genre of film. I hope this isn't De Niro and Scorsese's last collaborations I know the two of them still have much more to give.

6/10

Keith Lemon: The Film

Funny For All The Wrong Reasons

Director: Paul Angunawela
Release Date: 2012
Rating: 18
Running Time: 85 mins
Genre: Comdey
Actors: Leigh Francis, Verne Troyer and others

Crass, stupid, boring.

I don't recall laughing or even being remotely entertained during this film, I even got up on several occasions to get food just to get away from it. It felt like they were trying too hard to make the film funny and they tried to include too many celebrity juice regulars and other cameos from 'Bo Selecta' characters. The film needed to focus more on the narrative, which to be honest didn't really have one of any kind.

Kelly Brooks performance was average at best and I would even go so far as to say that I actually preferred her role in Piranha 3D which is saying a lot, at least there was some kind of story line and it was slightly entertaining. It felt like most of the actors in this were all trying too hard and giving into the crude humor that wasn't necersary as most of them can be funny without resorting to toilet humour all the time.

The jokes were childish which is stupid because no person who will actually find it funny is old enough to even watch it and to be honest it's all just a bit lame. Leigh Francis should stick to what he's best at, hosting 'Celebrity Juice' as the humor and comedy in that is ten times better than any part of this mediocre catastrophe.

1/10

Gravity

Over hyped or Complete Genius?



Director: Alfonso Cuaron
Release Date: 2013
Rating: 12
Running Time: 91 mins
Genre: Sci-fi/Drama
Actors: Sandra Bullock, George Clooney, Ed Harris

'Don't Let Go'

Sandra Bullock gives the performance of her career in this tense and wonderfully original sci-fi drama. When disaster hits a group of astronauts in orbit around the earth, Dr Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) and Lt. Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) completely cut off from everything, must rely on each other to survive and get back home. The film will really play with your emotions and grab you in such a deep way. It's very easy for 'Gravity' to pull you into the action.

The incredible direction and editing in this film is truly captivating, with interesting camera techniques and angles used throughout. The camera places you in orbit with the astronauts and follows Dr. Ryan Scott on her incredible and devastating adventure in space and she desperately battles to get home. George Clooney gives a fantastic supporting role in this film finding the perfect balance of humour and compassion in what could also possibly be his best role to date also. Yup, these two actors have come along way from 'Miss Congeniality' and 'Oceans Twelve', two fairly entertaining films, but ones that place 'Gravity' on a whole other level. Ed Harris also returns after 'Apollo 13' to once again play the role of 'Huston' on the earth down bellow, and despite not actually seeing the actor, he still gives a very good performance none the less.

The CGI and special effects in 'Gravity' are, dare I say it, out of this world and are truly mesmerizing. They are able to show space on a whole new level but with a film to other films such as '2001: A Space Odyssey' and 'Apollo 13', with a tribute or two to other sci-fi's such as Alien. It's that there was a lot of work that went into perfecting the technology in this film given that it took 4 years to invent and launch onto our screens and the film on the whole is so reliant on it. The Effects tied in with the editing and direction will probably make you feel slightly dizzy and maybe a bit motion sick, which doesn't help with it being in 3D, but it is filmed so cleverly it's easy to look past all this and the 3D makes it feel so much more real and exciting.

It's safe to say that 'Gravity' will be able to show audiences the beauty, the silence, the danger, the hardship and the incredible journey that people go on when experiencing space, as well as maybe putting a few people off going to visit the moon any time soon. Despite all this, I must say I did find the narrative begin to drag half way through and you do begin to wonder where the film is actually going to end up as it's so unpredictable, but it is safe to say that it is a visual masterpiece and one of the best and most original films to come out of Hollywood in along time. Some people will of course view it as another Sci-fi blockbuster about a group of marooned astronauts, but it is safe to say the film does go much deeper than this. Whatever your opinion is, it's still a film to see in 3D on the big screen as it is so incredibly filmed and is honestly the next best thing to going to space.

8/10

Gangster Squad

Serious or Spoof

Director: Ruben Fleischer
Release Date: 2013
Rating: 15
Running Time: 113 mins
Genre: Action/ Crime/ Drama
Starring: Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Sean Penn

'You Can't kill me, you're a cop'...'Not any more'.

In Los Angeles 1949, Mickey Cohen (Sean Penn) owns the city. He is feared by everyone after buying out most of the criminal justice system  allowing him to get away with basically whatever he wants. Only a small group of people want to put an end to Cohen's sadistic reign and form the 'Gangster Squad', an undercover group of cops lead by Sargent John O'mara (Josh Brolin) and Jerry Wooters (Ryan Gosling). It's only a matter of time before Cohen learns of this deceit and begins hunting down it's members. 'Gangster Squad' is an action packed and fast paced 'Tommy Gun' movie based on true events with other stars appearing in it, such as Emma Stone and Giovanni Ribisi, it will keep you entertained and in suspense by brutality and drama of this tense story throughout.

The film on the whole is incredibly bloody and violent which ties in well with the whole 'Gangster' genre of the film. Sean Penn displays a superb performance as Mickey Cohen being so wonderfully evil and severely unlike-able, however there are some rather comedic one liners said by Penn in this film such as 'let it rip' as two cars begin to tear a man in half and 'you know the drill' as a man gets his head drilled in by a couple of gangsters, very disturbing stuff. However the violence in this film shouldn't turn people away from it as it is such a thrilling and exciting film. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone appear together once again after 'Crazy, Stupid, Love' turning out two more great performances from the actors, despite Ryan Gosling's rather unsettling voice he decides to play out for the entire film, again making me question the seriousness of this film. Despite not seeing Josh Brolin in much previously, he delivered a brilliant performance as the protagonist in this film making the audience feel very safe and at ease with him in charge.

It's hard to find that many faults with 'Gangster Squad', despite it not doing as well as critics may have hoped and not all audiences really getting it, I still found it thoroughly enjoyable. I liked how such a serious and upsetting story could still be so uplifting and entertaining and despite such serious acting from Josh Brolin and Sean Penn it didn't feel like the film was trying to be too dark or sinister giving audiences a chance to see 1940's Hollywood  without feeling too old fashioned. A very good film well worth giving a watch.

8/10

Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgandy

He's Kind of A Big Deal

Director: Adam Mckay
Release Date: 2004
Rating: 15
Running Time: 94 mins
Genre: Comedy
Starring: Will Ferrell, Paul Rudd, Steve Carell

'Everyone! I have just been given and urgent news story, and I want you all to stop what you are doing and listen.....Cannonball!!' 

Will Ferrell is Ron Burgundy, lead anchorman of the channel 4 news team alongside Champ Kind - Sports (David Koechner), Brick Tamland - Weather (Steve Carell) and their man in the field Brian Fantana (Paul Rudd). All is well during the 70's in San Diego, everyone loves Ron Burgundy and the ratings for channel 4 news have never been better, until one day keen news journalist Veronica Corningstone (Christina Applegate) appears at channel 4 and consequently causing quite a stir for Ron and the team.

This semi-improvised comedy is so brilliantly fresh and inventive even nearly 10 years on. For me this is arguably Will Ferrell's greatest role to date, as Ron Burgundy is still able to shock and entertain me after so long. The film is so brilliantly able to capture the mood of the 70's in terms of costumes and attitudes, tackling the big issue of sexism that would've been present and is able to put a rather comical spin on the problems. One of the best things about this film is the way that most of the lines are made up on the spot prompting such lines as, 'Why don't you go back to your home on whore island,' and 'you're a smelly pirate hooker' to name a few. The sheer obscurity of what goes on in this film and the lines that are said will make for a truly memorable experience watching this film and it will be hard to stop yourself from laughing basically the whole way through.

The film features multiple cameos from a number of comedy actors like, Vince Vaughn, Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Luke Wilson, Seth Rogen and a few others audiences may known, one particular scene influencing a Battle Royale between rival news teams featuring a handful of famous actors. It can be said that arguably this was the film that launched Judd Apatow's career to where he is now and sparking his first film with comedy actors such as Steve Carell and Seth Rogen that lead on to other hilarious and ingenius works such as 'The 40 Year Old Virgin' and 'Knocked Up', just to name a few.

'Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy' will have you wincing, laughing, crying, angry, perplexed but mainly just highly entertained in this weird and wonderful tale of friendship, pride, love and loss, a real revolutionary film that's left us almost 10 years to wait for the sequel. 

'You stay classy San Diego'

9/10

Punch-Drunk Love

Sandler's One Great Role?

Director: Paul Thomas Anderson

Release Date: 2002

Rating: 15

Running Time: 95 mins

Genre: Romantic Comedy/ Drama
Starring: Adam Sandler, Emily Watson, Philip Seymour Hoffman

When I think of Adam Sandler it's hard to think of what kind of an actor he is given the range of films he's done. I don't think it's that unfair to say that he has brought out some shocking films over the years, 'Click', 'I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry', 'Jack and Jill' and quite a few others. Nevertheless I still consider him to be a really good actor given how diverse his roles have been and regardless of the character's he's played it's mainly the narratives that have let him down rather than his skills as an actor. Having said that he has starred in some pretty good films as well, 'Anger Management', '50 First Dates' and dare I say 'You Don't Mess With The Zohan' as, despite the ridiculous accent, the film did manage to make me laugh on several occasions. Which does raise the question, does Adam Sandler have to do stupid voices and inappropriate things to be funny?

When critics refer to 'Punch-Drunk Love' they say that it's proof that Adam Sandler can act and be sincerely funny. I hadn't heard of 'Punch-Drunk Love' until recently as it's not a film that really springs to mind when people think of Adam Sandler, yet all the same I really enjoyed it and found it to be one of his best.

Despite Paul Thomas Anderson not making that many films on the whole I think he delivers a winner with this cute little rom-com about love, hate, insecurity and a massive amount of pudding. When a troubled novelty supplier Barry Egan (Sandler) discovers a piano by the side of the road next to where he works, he takes it in and a bizarre series of events transpires. Barry finds himself in trouble both with love as he is constantly pestered and harassed by his uptight sisters and also a phone sex hot line who begin to torment him and make his life all the more difficult. Despite not really knowing what is wrong with Adam Sandlers character, it won't take long to warm to him find yourself intrigued by the random turn of events that consume his life. This cute comedy between Adam Sandler and Emily Watson is able to show that it's possible to find love in the weirdest of circumstances no matter
what the problem is with people.

This rom-com will have you laughing and fascinated by the weird little world Paul Thomas Anderson has created, with interesting camera techniques and funny interactions, it's hard to believe that Adam Sandler is the same actor in 'That's My Boy' and 'Jack and Jill' and makes me question why he went back to the stupid roles and mediocre comedy after making such films as 'Punch-Drunk Love'. Regardless of that, audiences will love Sandler's role in this film both though is acting and also his humour. If you're looking for something quite light and funny it would be worth giving this one a watch.

7/10

La Haine

A Film About Anger or Passion?

Director: Mathieu Kassovitz
Release Date: 1995
Rating: 15
Running Time: 98 mins
Genre: Drama
Starring: Vincent Cassel, Said Taghmaoui. Hubert Kounde

'LA HAINE' - HATE

'LA MONDE EST A VOUS' - THE WORLD IS YOURS

Set in the gritty outskirts of Paris during the 1990's riots, three French youths face the pain and isolation of growing up in the banlieue (suburban slums) with the war between the police and the rioters happening around them. Filmed entirely in high-contrast black and white, Mathieu Kassovitz takes us through a day in the life of Vinz, Said and Hubert as they face constant harassment from the police, the media and pretty much anyone who comes near them. This close-to-the-knuckle anti-police film does not hold back on showing the hardship of life for people living in those conditions and manages to address other issues such as peer pressure, corruption, anger, violence and drugs, 'La Haine' isn't the lightest of films to watch, but easily a fantastic film all the same, raising issues that are still relative today.

Despite all the violence and crime that occurs in the 20 hours that the film is set in, I found myself drawn to liking the three characters and as the film progressed through the day I was less and less in support of the police. This was of course what Kassovitz wanted when he made this film and it's easy to see the anger that went into making 'La Haine'. The film was so controversial many police turned their back on the film when it was released at the 1995 Cannes film festival, many people still have a negative look on the film today given that these issues and riots are still occurring in Paris today.

The film on the whole, without trying to give too much away, is not necessarily the happiest of films, but regardless of that fact I still really enjoyed it and even found myself laughing on several occasions given the boredom that the characters face as well as the random incidents that happen throughout the day. 'La Haine' reminded me of Noel Clarke's 'Kidulthood' as it follows three youths and the way that it captures the isolation and crime that goes on in the outskirts of big cities such as Paris and London. The beauty of these types of films is that audiences are able to see a different point of view and culture to the sorts that they are use to seeing which gives 'La Haine' quite a 'fresh' feel in the cinema industry. Despite the fact the film is black and white and filmed entirely in French, it's still one worth checking out as the anger, violence, crime and even humour make it such an interesting

and moving film.

10/10

Insidious: Chapter 2

You Will Jump Out Your Skin

Director: James Wan

Release Date: 2013

Rating: 15

Running Time: 104 mins
Genre: Horror/ Drama
Actors: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Lin Shaye

The fantastically twisted duo, Leigh Whannell and James Wan (Saw, Dead Silence) team up once again for the mysterious horror sequel ‘Insidious: Chapter 2’ with more scares and one more run in with the creepy old woman. After the disturbing and weird song featured in chapter 1, the film includes a new eerie track and even more unnerving characters, matching the fear created in the first film. Following on from the first chapter, the film takes place seconds after the first one finishes on its grueling cliff-hanger, where we see the Lambert family, still haunted by the sinister supernatural beings, continue to torment and endanger them all. This film will definitely have audiences screaming and jumping out their seats which consequently may leave them sleeping with a light on for the next few days.

The best thing about this film is how every other minute there is something else that will spook the viewers and make them jump with terror. For me it was a lot of fun, especially as it was playing on a big screen and I was surrounded by loads of people all feeling the same thing.  For me, these types of scares are the most exciting ones in horror films, as it focuses on more the psychological side of things appose to just straight up gore and violence. I can guarantee that this film will make even the bravest audience members want to take a spare pair of underwear with them. Furthermore, unlike most horror films, ‘Insidious’ is very unpredictable in what will scare the audience next, so nobody will be able give the usual spiel about knowing what’s coming. What’s more, the film genuinely will have you constantly trying to guess what’s going to happen and only at the end will everything become clear, so it’s well worth sticking with it. In a way, it feels like the ‘Insidious’ films are a mixture of ‘Paranormal Activity’ and a contemporary ‘Poltergeist’ that’s taken a similar narrative and completely turned it on its side to horrify and perplex audiences through the way it shows supernatural forces persistently haunting a helpless family, terrifying audiences.

I’ve spoken about Leigh Whannel’s work before in my review of ‘Saw’, but I do think it must be said that the man really does know how to amaze audiences his narratives. It’s hard to talk about the ‘Saw’ and ‘Insidious’ films he’s written and not give anything away because of the complexity of them all. I found it really hard after I saw ‘Insidious: Chapter 2’  to not go and tell everyone about the ending and everything that happens, given that the films are so cleverly connected. I do think that if you are interested in seeing chapter 2 then it’s really important that you see the first one beforehand, due to the close connection and the way they follow on. The only problem with laying the film out like this is that the children might grow up too quickly consequently making them seem too different and therefore making the film too unbelievable. James Wan and Leigh Whannell faced this difficulty prior to ‘Insidious’ when they came to make ‘Saw III’, where the director actually said the young actor who played Daniel grew up overnight and that meant they couldn’t use him again in later films. Nonetheless I found that despite there being two and a bit years between the release of ‘Insidious’ and ‘Insidious: Chapter 2’ the boys in the Lambert family didn’t appear to have aged much at all and therefore meant the film worked better, still having the same chilling effects of the first one.

So it should be said that if you were a fan of the first film or you just enjoy being scared in the cinema it’s definitely worth checking this next installment out, but make sure you bring clean underwear and a group of friends because it’s not one that you will want to see alone.

8/10

2001: A Space Odyssey

A Film Way Ahead Of It's Time

Director: Stanley Kubrick

Release Date: 1968

Running Time: 161 mins
Rating: U

Genre: Science Fiction
Starring: Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood

Stanley Kubrick is able to admirably confuse and put audiences to sleep with this slow moving science fiction about a couple of space explorers embarking on a mission to Jupiter. The film on the whole is very slow burning and doesn't really withhold much dialogue, consequently stopping the audience from being allowed to really form any emotional attachment with the characters at all. The first half an hour or so is mainly just focusing monkeys dancing around a plank on cliff and then the film cuts to way into the future where we see a spaceship embarking on a space mission of sorts, very confusing stuff.

Credit where credit is due to Kubrick, both his concept and vision for this films narrative and cinematography should be highly commended, remembering that this film was released before man even first set foot on the moon, and therefore, placing ‘2001’ way ahead of it’s time. The camera work and shots involved in developing this film is truly astonishing given the limitations Kubrick would've faced whilst making it. However, I would in many respects consider ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ to be seen as more of a work of art than a film, in the way that it is representing the evolutionary landmarks of humanity and allowing us to ask ourselves what the next evolutionary steps might be in forming the perfect being. Kubrick manages to do his by showing the simplicity of Neanderthals and how they have evolved into now showing how humans are trying to generate the perfect being. Despite Kubrick trying his best to carry this message across to audiences, it’s not the easiest narrative to understand and, subsequently, he did end up loosing me in the middle both because of the confusing narrative and moreover the fact I began to fall asleep. Consequently I found myself asking ‘what the hell is going on?’

I would say to audience members who have not seen ‘2001’ before that it’s a highly confusing but at the same time, dull, narrative that you will have to be very awake for in order to fully appreciate. The music and the sound effects used as well really did create the feeling of being in space and being on board a spaceship, which would have been really exciting for audiences in those days, yet nonetheless I found the monotony and repetition of the sounds caused me to drift off on multiple occasions and left me very lethargic. I only really began to pay attention to this bizarre space story towards the end when the narrative began to get a bit more heated. Despite this though Kubrick once again lost me at the ending where I was left baffled, confused and altogether slightly disappointed as we are never really able to find out, or even guess for that matter, what happens and I find the film digresses off on one unnecessary and weird tangent.

For more younger audiences I don’t know if ‘2001’ will be appreciated in the same way that it would've been 45 years ago, not because it looks old but because they just won’t get it. Despite the ‘Universal’ certificate I wouldn't show it to younger audiences, purely because for me, it’s a film that you have to persevere with and for a lot of viewers, it’s either too confusing or just a bit dull. By the time the intermission came around I found the film to be getting tedious and moreover I found the intermission to be a wholly unnecessary thing to do. I think it’s safe to say that if you have a short attention span and you don’t like old films then it would probably be a good idea to give this one a miss.

Equally however, this could just be me being cynical. I think it should be pointed out I am not the biggest lover of sci-fi and furthermore I did really enjoyed Kubrick’s adaptation of ‘The Shining’, so maybe it was more just the genre than Kubrick’s filming techniques. After all, I found that the experimental camerawork and frames to be ‘out of this world’ and they were truly mesmerizing to behold, given that I still have no idea how he managed to film at such angles, let alone for the time that he did. So overall I suppose it’s fair to say the ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ has its ups and downs, I reckon I probably would give it another watch to try and make sense of it all, plus I might try to pay more attention in the middle next time which might help. Fair to say, hats off to Stanley Kubrick but if you’re looking to watch a good exciting film then stay clear of it. ‘2001’ is a very interesting piece of cinema but I’d make sure you watch it when you’re feeling very awake and you’re not going to get distracted because it’s a tough one.

7/10

North By Northwest

A Timeless Classic

Director: Alfred Hitchcock

Release Date: 1959

Rating: PG
Running Time: 130 mins

Genre: Action/ Comedy/ Mystery
Actors: Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint

If anyone see's a crop-duster these days, most will be able to picture Cary Grant trying to out run it.

Cary Grant is given his turn to team up with the spectacular Alfred Hitchcock in the tense mystery classic ‘North by Northwest’. When New York advertising executive, Roger Thornhill (Cary Grant) is kidnapped and misread for a supposed government agent, he’s forced to go on the run from just about everyone and pushed right to the edge for survival. Fantastically tense and captivating thriller, audiences are able to really see the great director take on the ‘action’ genre of cinema and again produce, what is arguably a highly original cinematic experience, way ahead of its time.

In spite of ‘North by Northwest’ being a rather confusing story for audiences throughout the majority of the film, I found myself rather enjoying the adventure all the same. I was especially impressed by the way that Hitchcock could still entertain the audience through the comedy and light-hearted humor that was smartly woven into the rather serious story. One of the most admirable things about Alfred Hitchcock’s films, is how there are a large amount of enigmas and mystery’s thrown in to confuse and almost ‘play’ with the audience. Straight away for me ‘North by Northwest’ grabbed me as an intriguing and mystifying story but also very witty. One particular scene that stood out for me, showed Cary Grant being taken into a police station in a heavy state of inebriation after a very serious drink driving episode where he almost drove a Mercedes convertible off a cliff and is then forced spend the night in jail.

It’s safe to say this film does not hold back on being so wonderfully ‘Hitchcock’. ‘North by Northwest’, like other films by the director, features many of the typical ‘Hitchcock stamps’ and typical clichés repeated in most of his films.  At the very start we see a cameo from Alfred Hitchcock running for a bus about to drive off where the doors close on him, adding to the comedy side of the film. Moreover, another is the trademark blonde girl, played by Eva Marie Saint as the heroin and romantic interest of the protagonist; other Hitchcock films include dazzling actresses such as Grace Kelly and Tippi Hedren. Nevertheless it also can be argued that ‘North by Northwest’ is able to offer a different type of genre for the Hitchcock fans as it’s able to explore so much more in terms of scenery. If we look at works by Hitchcock prior to this film such as ‘Rear Window’ and ‘Rope’,  we see both take place in the same setting throughout both of the films, therefore meaning they don’t really explore much in terms of scenery and locations. As well as this we are able to see Hitchcock work with a new leading role rather than Jimmy Stewart, seen in other works such as ‘Rope’, ‘Vertigo’ and ‘Rear Window’. Yet despite this the role of Roger Thornhill did appear to be similar roles James Stewart has played in the past so it was surprising that Hitchcock didn't go with him for the part. Nonetheless Cary Grant portrays the character very well and provides a highly creditable and humorous performance in this film, finding the perfect combination of comedy, romance and tension.

It’s safe to say with ‘North by Northwest’ that Alfred Hitchcock really didn't want to give anything away with his rather ambiguous title given that it doesn't really tell us anything at all about what the film might involve.  So the confusing and strange film is definitely one to check out despite it leaving the audience constantly guessing and asking questions.

Typical Hitchcock playing with us all.

8/10

Rear Window

The Master of Suspense At His Best

Director: Alfred Hitchcock

Release Date: 1954

Rating: PG

Running Time: 112mins

Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Starring: James Stewart, Grace Kelly

'6 weeks I've been stuck in this apartment with nothing to do but look out the window at the neighbours.'

The legendary Alfred Hitchcock teams up once again with the brilliant Jimmy Stewart to produce the fascinating ‘Rear Window’. This film for me is such a classic ‘Hitchcock type’ film in the way that it’s shot and directed, I was amazed at the simplicity of the idea but the overall complexity of the story. The audience are really made to focus on this film and are left asking question throughout as we continue to see the events unfolding outside the rear window. Hitchcock is able to do this in such a unique way that really makes ‘Rear Window’ stand out as a real timeless piece.

When Jeff Jefferies (James Stewart) breaks his leg, he is made wheelchair bound for the next two months and is therefore trapped in his apartment with nothing to do other than look out the window at his neighbours lives. The film is able to capture a number of different stories and characters from the point of view of James Stewart and really make the audience feel like they’re seeing the world through his eyes. It’s amazing how Hitchcock is able to capture the frustration of being in one room for the whole film, but furthermore how he can keep the audience intrigued for the whole film.

What’s so great about Hitchcock’s work is the originality of it all and arguably how ahead of it’s time his films are. In ‘Read Window’ the film can be said to be a representation of how nosy and interested in other peoples business the world was becoming at that time. This is shown through the way the camera keeps panning to other apartment windows and we see a new story that keeps being returned to as the film progresses making us interested in what’s going on with all the neighbors and what’s more impressive is how Hitchcock is able to almost make the audience feel guilty as they too are spying.

James Stewart, known from other films such as ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ and ‘Vertigo’ is able to once again able to deliver high standard performance in this bizarre mystery thriller. The majority of film takes place in his character’s apartment, as he is unable to leave, so the camera for the most part will pan around the various sights out the window from his perspective and then cut to show his reactions adding elements of comedy and humor, but also suspicion as the film develops. Once again we are able to see James Steward do what he did best, be James Stewart in front of a camera, due to his character being similar to other roles he’s done prior, none the less carrying out a superb performance.

Alfred Hitchcock also uses another trademark featured in all his films, the ‘blonde heroin’. This time performed by Grace Kelly who is able to bring a coating of romance and sexuality to the part making ‘Rear Window’ quite a broad film in terms of it’s genre. The film does focus quite heavily on the relationship between Jimmy Stewart and Grace Kelly. Despite the age gap between the two actors (21 years) they are able to perform very well together and effectively convey the intimate relationship of the two characters.

In spite of the year this film was released, much like all of Hitchcock’s films, there is a real sense of agelessness about it, meaning that it could be set in any year. The originality and experimentation with the effects in those times made the film appear to be very much ahead of it’s time and was a main reason why it was able to gain it such a high rating among audiences. ‘Rear Window’ is a classic piece of Hollywood cinema depicting both Stewart and Hitchcock at their best, a film I strongly recommend checking out.

10/10

Inglorious Basterds

Bloody Ambitious, Typical Tarantino

Director: Quentin Tarantino
Release Date: 2009
Rating: 18
Running time: 153mins
Genre: War/Drama
Actors: Brad Pitt, Christoph Waltz, Melanie Laurant


‘Inglorious basterds’, possibly Tarantino’s most ambitious film to date, we see a group of eight Jewish-American soldiers lead by Brad Pitt, drop into Nazi occupied France and begin ruthlessly striking back against the German soldiers. What I admire most about this film is the way that it’s not a historical retelling of WWII, nor in any way factual, but one thing you can say about ‘Inglorious Bastards’ is it’s bloody good cinema!

Despite the majority of the film taking place France and a large proportion of the dialogue being spoken in French, I don’t think this takes any of the enjoyment away from the film. In fact in my opinion I think that Tarantino’s bold move of having the actors speak French and German turned out to be a smart decision as it’s able to make the audience feel like they've been placed in 1944 France, and make it feel that little bit more realistic. One of the things I enjoy most about this film is how it was able to the impact of the Nazi invasion on the French population and moreover, sets the film up for its incredibly explosive climax.  

Due to the film having this multinational cast, it gave Tarantino a chance to work with actors such as the superb Christoph Waltz, a German-Austrian actor who plays the fantastically evil Colonel. Hans Lander, a ruthless Nazi leader who, due to his profession in the film, is nicknamed ‘The Jew Hunter’. Waltz also appeared in the Academy Award winning ‘Django Unchained’ and amazingly well crafted Spaghetti Western that honed in on the controversial topic of slavery. Waltz was able to give a tremendous, yet slightly over the top, performance speaking not just German, but French and English as well, proving just how talented the actor actually is. The write up for this character was so good that Waltz actually went on to win the Oscar in 2010 for best supporting actor which I believed added a lot to audience interest and partly to the films overall success. As well as this we got to see other brilliant performances from actors such as Michael Fassbender (also known for his role in ‘X-men: First class’) and other roles performed Hollywood actors Brad Pitt and Mike Myers. As well as the films narration being done by Samuel L. Jackson who actually made his fifth appearance in a Quentin Tarantino film.

The thing I admire most about Quentin Tarantino, is the way he takes the unconventional people who don’t usually play the role of a hero in typical genre’s of films but transforms them into such roles. In ‘Inglorious Basterds’ we see Shoshanna, a Jewish French girl who flees to central France after her family were savagely murdered by Nazis. In the film Shoshanna evolves into the role of the alternative protagonist who begins plotting her bloody revenge on the leaders of Nazi group who were responsible for her family’s demise. Another thing worth pointing out about ‘Inglorious Bastards’ is the gore which plays a key role in demonstrating the way the basterds like to work. The concept of the ‘Inglorious Basterds’ ties in well with theme of Jews fighting back against Hitler and sets the film up for its astoundingly detrimental climax for the unsuspecting Germans. When the basterds drop into France and we see ‘The Basterds’ take on the Nazis in their own sadistic and brutal ways. Moreover as the film continues we see just how far the basterds are willing to go to bring down German troops. It could be said however that the characters in this film are astonishingly brave but perhaps also recklessly stupid in their methods of counteracting the Germans and consequently this may leave a few audience members slightly confused and perhaps disappointed with how everything turns out.

Nevertheless Tarantino’s effort in creating an audience pleasing WWII drama manages to live up to audience expectations and once again I think the screenwriter/director manages to outdo the creativity he uses compared to previous films he’s done. Despite not necessarily being altogether factual, it certainly manages to create a film that audiences would very much love to see, so it’s worth checking out as long as you don’t mind a bit of blood.

8/10

This Is England

Harrowing, Powerful, Genius

Director: Shane Meadows

Release Date: 2006
Rating: 18
Running time: 101mins
Genre: Drama
Actors: Stephen Graham, Thomas Turgoose, Joe Gilgun, Vicky McClure

‘That’s what we need man, that’s what our nation’s been built on, proud men…proud fucking men,’ 

Shane Meadows takes on the highly compelling story of a young boy growing up in the early 80’s, who is enrolled into a skinhead subculture and shown just what it means to be English at that time. Meadows works with a highly likable and credible cast of under the radar actors who piece together this fascinating drama about life in the north of England during Margaret Thatcher’s reign as Prime Minister and the Falklands war. 

This ‘close to the knuckle’ story is able to show audiences the historical background of early 80’s England to highlight the events leading up to and influencing the films story. When 11 year old Shaun is having trouble at school with bullies he meets Woody, a likable northerner who, with the help of his friends, introduces Shaun to their boisterous and rebellious antics of being a skinhead turning his life around. That is until he’s taken under the wing of Combo (Stephen Graham) a white supremacist who wants to rid the country of anything and anyone who isn't

wholly English.

‘This Is England’ is one of the best British Dramas of this century that’s able to show the harsh reality and poverty of England at the time and shows audiences that maybe it isn't all that to be English. What’s especially good about this film is how Meadows was able to give a real insight into both the skinhead subculture and also the north of England at that time. Plus despite it being set in only a small part of the country it can be appreciated by a large population of people and shows a story that everyone should be able to relate to in one way or another and keep people fixated right up until its dramatic climax.

What’s more is, the films success was able to go onto produce two follow on drama series’ on channel 4 ‘This is England 86’ and ‘This is England 88’ where we are able to see what happens to all the characters 3 years on after the events of the film. We’re able to get a more in depth look into not Shaun’s life but develop other characters stories as well. What’s especially clever about this series is how it was able to highlights the constant changes that went on in the late 1980’s and difficulties faced by people in both their social and economical aspects. A truly fascinating story worth checking out. 

9/10

Saw

The Franchise That Shocked The World

Director: James Wan

Release Date: 2004
Rating: 18
Running time: 103mins

Genre: Crime/Horror/Mystery
Actors: Leigh Whannell, Cary Elwes, Tobin Bell

'Hello, I want to play a game.'

“A load of constant blood without any story or point to it” is the usual response from people when Saw comes into a conversation. The thing that attracts me to this grizzly franchise from ‘Twisted Productions’ however, goes much deeper than just the blood and guts pouring onto the screen. A word of advice I wish someone had told me before I watched Jigsaws wicked story would be “remember everything you've ever heard about Saw and forget it and just enjoy the film with an open mind”.

The main thing that I find so fascinating about Saw is its plot line. The fact that it’s able to keep the audience transfixed and terrified the whole way through the film shows just how successful the idea was. I doubt there are many people around who wouldn't associate the words ‘I want to play a game’ with the films. It amazes me what a successful franchise the Saw series has turned out to be given the small budget it was given and shot in only 18 days. This is further extenuated as the story line is just simply about two guys chained up in a bathroom with two hacksaws and a dead body lying in the middle of the room. The way the film managed to keep the audience so keen right to the very end earned itself a phenomenal following and an astonishing 6 sequels each more disgustingly gruesome than the last. As the films progress furthermore the story line keeps on expanding providing the audience with more shockingly brilliant twists and disgustingly inventive new traps.

The first three instalments were written by Leigh Whannell, who also plays the slightly pitiable character Adam in ‘Saw I’ from my guess he most likely set out to write ‘Saw’ as a trilogy rather than a seven part torture porn gore-fest it later turned out to be. Furthermore, like any good trilogy Whannell was able to hold the audience in complete suspense throughout and was able to lay it out in traditional trilogy style. Having said this I think it’s a fair judgement that the first ‘Saw’ was by far the unsurpassed film given that the idea was so wonderfully original and simple. The simplicity of the original idea made it really captivating and subsequently made me want to see more. As well as this it was also able to reassure me that these films do in fact have a narrative driving them forward rather than just Jigsaw racking up an unnecessary amount of corpses. From what I've seen of Whannell’s work, when you watch one of his films you a guaranteed a shocking twist and you will most likely be left asking questions. So it’s safe to say that the ‘Saw’ films did not lack suspense or shock and they did literally have me captivated right up until the very end of its horribly ingenious conclusion. The films really were able to give an insight into what ‘Saw’ is really about and why we see all these people pushed to the absolute limit to survive. Nevertheless both ‘Saw II’ and ‘Saw III’  also had very intriguing and exciting story lines whereby at the same time the producers were allowed to really freak out the audience and do their best to make them wince and even feel physically sick as much as they could. One of the most inventive traps appeared in ‘Saw III’ when a man was tied to the floor of a large basin that was slowly filling up with liquidated pig guts, really gross stuff! But fans of the fist ‘Saw’ it may not necessarily be able to follow such a brilliant narrative and may have even be put off the film altogether. None the less I think it’s fair to say that there’s something in ‘Saw’ for all horror/thriller fans and if the first one kept them guessing then they definitely will not be disappointed with II and III.

Another factor that deserves to be credited about 'Saw' is Tobin Bells portrayal of the character 'Jigsaw'. The name 'Jigsaw' was given to him as from each of his victims he removes a piece of flesh in the shape of a jigsaw piece, representing the survival instinct that people lack. The film mostly revolves around his characters past and the audience being to discover why he chooses to make the victims 'Play the games' and we are finally shown the big picture developing. With 'Jigsaw' I find that there's something weirdly likable and perhaps even admirable about his character in a bizarre sense. Despite his inherent evil he is a very moral character  unlike others in the franchise, and he does his best to follow 'the rules' laid out which he expects others to follow as well. Given that he is the only actor to appear in all 7 films, it is arguably Bells franchise given it's the story behind his character that carries the story forward.

So there must be something about people slashing their limb off and fighting for their lives that audiences all around the world find so appealing whether it is the gore or the sheer madness of it people just can’t resist finding out for themselves. Whether you’re a twisted horror fanatic or not, my advice would be if you enjoy a good film check it out cause it might just change your opinion.

"Game Over".

6/10