Sullivan's Travels

A Journey We Can All Learn From

Director: Preston Sturges
Release Date: 1941
Rating: U
Running Time: 90 mins
Genre: Screwball Comedy
Sarring: John McCrea, Veronica Lake

"But nothing's going to stop me. I've got to find out what it's like to be without friends, without credit, without chequebook, without name. Alone"

I was recently introduced to the concept of Screwball Comedies having had no idea about the genre in the past. Thriving in the 1930's and 40's, the films adopted a genre of comedy similar to that of Film Noir, but with a slightly more light-hearted twist. The films distinguish themselves for their masculine and feminine characters battling for control and also for their battle of classes in those times. Needless to say the films featured a generous amount of conflict yet shown in a rather comical way to create the humorous element that was almost seen as a rarety when the film was first released.

With regard to this film, Sullilvan's Travels, one of which I will shamefully admit, despite being an early Hollywood classic, I had never actually heard of before viewing. We're taken on a journey with our lead: Joel McCrea playing John R Sullivan or Sully to his friends, an ignorant movie director, who wants to see the world through the eyes of a poor man suffering poverty, before then making a picture about the topic. It's an interesting concept for a film, and highlights perfectly the class conflicts that were common in the genre around the time. But what's more interesting about Sullivan's Travels is the way that Sully keeps being warned not to make this picture, it's not what he knows and it's not what the people around the time wanted to see. Emphasising how in cinema, people wanted escapism  rather than realism. Even at the end, Sully expresses how he wants to make a comedy instead of a drama, which his producers and crew are still surprised by. This is interesting given that the film itself is infact a comedy and you can wonder if Sturges battled with the same problems making the film as his protagonist.

In the early parts of the film we see him heading down the road in a Pingu like fashion, wielding a scrawny satchel and followed by a lorry full of his film crew. It's hard to really get a grasp of what's going on in the early parts of the film due to the fast dialogue and, if I'm honest slightly unclear narrative. I struggled to understand quite a lot, and clearly it's a film that may require a re-view. 

For me, it's a film where we see the story go from bad to worse in the characters case, but for the audience, it leaves us with some hilarious moments. It's feel is light overall, though does gradually get darker throughout the film, although the end message leaves us feeling positive understanding of the importance of people's laughter and how the people rely on it so much. It represents the time as well of course, early 40's, and how there was a lot of harrowing events occurring: poverty, bankrupsy, depression and of course the outbreak of WWII. It's a reminder of how important it is to simply, laugh.

There's a strong sense of how important money can be to people, and in John R Sullivan's case, he feels as though it can buy him whatever he needs, whether that's friendship or even freedom. We see him suffer poverty, assault and even imprisonment, but the whole time I felt that, the rich cannot understand the poor in the same way, no matter how hard they try. It didn't matter on the situation, or how bad things got, Sully could always get out of the problems, with proper health care, food, comfortable sleeping that his money was able to buy him, where as a man living in severe poverty like Sully was trying to, would not be awarded the same luxuries. This shows a lot about the American ideologies such as the 'American Dream' and how for many, it was something never experienced. The film gave the feeling of a protagonist who in this case was slightly flawed and not really one you can really get behind in support of. Everything bad that goes on, which (Spoiler alert) is quite a lot, happens purely Sully's own decisions, showing how he himself is flawed and the dark comedy element is brought out. 

One famous face I did recognise in this film however, was the very beautiful and famous Film-Noir actress Veronica Lake. I found Lake's performance to be one of a strong female character, but due to the time, had no real power in any circumstance during the film. She made important suggestions and showed how smart women in that time could be, but still the film, like most 40's Hollywood, felt to be slightly misogynistic.

So maybe these two characters, flawed for different reasons, tied in with the poverty aspects can sum up perfectly the function and intention of a Screwball comedy. There are as well, a few narrative flaws which are glossed over, and there's a lot of motifs and symbolism revolving trains, they themselves playing a huge part in the story, but if I'm being honest, I struggled to work out one exact answer for this enigma. Overall however, it was an enjoyable watch, proving how early 40's classics can still stand out as great cinema, which, though now only really targets a niche audience, it can still entertain and be loved.

7/10

Inherent Vice

PTA, You're Inherently Off The Wall

Director: Paul Thomas Anderson

Release Date: 2014

Rating: 15

Running Time: 140 mins 

Genre: Crime/Drama

Actors: Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin, Owen Wilson, Katherine Waterston

"INHERENT VICE: The tendency in physical objects to deteriorate due to fundamental instability of the components from which they are made, as opposed to the deterioration from external forces"

When Daniel Day Lewis received his second Academy Award for There Will Be Blood, he praised his director and screenwriter Paul Thomas Anderson (PTA) by stating that his Oscar "Sprang like a golden sampling out of the mad beautiful head of Paul Thomas Anderson" from a film that came from just "a small devilish whisper". It was those words that many PTA fans would have all agreed they could not have phrased the directors films any better than that. When we look back at Paul Thomas Anderson's work, it's clear that the writer/director really does have a quirky and surreal edge to his films that create instant cult followings from so many audiences. His films posses a surreal yet relatable feel that are underlined with entirely human and understandable narratives that can only be found after hours of digging through the enigmas that shield them. We can look back on such films like There Will Be Blood and see into the mind of a clear sociopath as he falls deeper into his madness, and even in his rom-com Punch-Drunk Love, the film that proved Adam Sandler could in fact act, we see a quirky relationship and love story form around two very unique individuals. If we explore his films we can see how this amazing man's mind works.

So Inherent Vice. Where do I begin? It's a film about drug fuelled LA in the 70s showing how drug addiction, police corruption and the free attitudes of the people living in that time can affect what goes on. However, shielded by a dialogue heavy plot we loose ourselves in the mind of Larry "Doc" Sportello, a man who we're not sure is completely sane, or even if he's aware of what is going on outside his own mind. We question the character, who works as a private investigator, that perhaps he would be more successful in his job is he laid off the drugs, but even still, PTA has created a world in which the not even a sane sober mind could fully understand. It's being described as an "Acid tripping stoner movie" that I feel sums up how we would all see the world if we were high 24/7, that being, a complete and utter unravelable sinario, it will be impossible to keep track of what's going on. One thing I will say is that you have to go into this film knowing that or you will get completely lost. There is so much open for interpretation it's almost worth giving up on trying to follow the plot-line. If you listen the dialogue, that does heavily lay on this film, you could wonder if PTA even intended it all to make sense, or was it, like the fans would say, an acid trip made to baffle and confuse us.

Did Joaquin Phoenix actually understand the plot himself whilst shooting was taking place? Given that he exists in the majority if not all the scenes in this film it's interesting to wonder the impact he himself may have had in creating this film. Though maybe not appreciated by everyone now, I can't help but wonder if, after some serious studying and analysing of this film, would it become an all time classic in which we explore the very depths of the human mind? Or is it instead just a film to show the impact of 70s attitudes on Los Angeles society, not only showing how drastically the times have changed in the last 40 years but capturing the laid back and overly careless and free-loving attitudes of a lot of the people in that time? Either way it's a film that you're going to have to watch twice just to try and gain a basic understanding of what the film is trying to say, and even then you probably will struggle.

Though its an interesting film, so well shot and captured with funny scenes and a tiny snippet of action, I personally just didn't get pulled into it in the way I have in other films. I think maybe I spent too long trying to decipher the dialogue I may have been standing too close to see the big picture. But even so, unless you're a fan on PTA/Coeness/Lyncheon plots, you may struggle to enjoy Inherent Vice, it's not an easy viewing, and at nearly two and half hours you may in fact come out wondering if you've wasted your time. It's a fantastically acted and captured work of art but as a film for me I may have missed the point, or better yet, got a good grasp of it but didn't care for it. Either way, a good film, but may take some time before it actually gets anywhere.

6/10

Mud

A Film We Owe A Lot To

Director: Jeff Nichols
Release Date: 2013
Rating: 15
Running Time: 120 mins
Genre: Drama/Adventure
Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Tye Sherridan, Reese Witherspoon

What is it about Matthew McConaughey that makes him so instantly likeable? And why is it only now that we've realised the potential that this actor has? Before Nolan shot him across Galaxies in Interstellar, before the Texan was shipping and selling HIV medication in Dallas Buyers Club, before we were hung in pure suspense by his haunting acting in True Detective, we were given Mud. This is potentially the film that started The McConaissanse and all I want to know is through all the rom-coms, mediocre comedy adventures and Tropic Thunder, where did this array of unique and enigmatic performances arise from? Though the man himself may argue it was God who gave him the opportunity, you can look at this success and see that McConaughey was finally blessed with the good writing an actor liked him deserved, allowing him to show the world his true potential.

In Mud we begin with two boys headed downstream of the Mississippi River to find a mysterious boat suspended high in the trees, seeking adventure the two boys more the boat ashore and search for answers only to find that they aren't the first people to come across this boat and it's on the shore that they meet the mysterious man who goes by the name of Mud (McConaughey). Though we don't know much about Muds character this earlier it's plainly obvious that this mysterious character no matter how dark or elusive, is going to be someone we can't help but like. As the situation begins growing more and more volatile we realise more about Mud's past and perhaps how much he's going to need the two boys help in surviving the events to come.

It's a story that takes place almost entirely in the outdoors of DeWitt, Arkansas and through the two boys alongside this strange man they come across, it does feel like we're taken on a real adventure. The film has an underlying theme of futility and darkness to it, but it's also a story of love, growing up, coming of age, and most of all for me, friendship. Tied in with the amazing cinematography capturing the natural beauty of this state and a soundtrack that manages to tie together all the films themes, Mud is created to be a film that will take you on an adventure through the eyes of two young boys. You're shown the beauty of where they're living and the incredible journey they set out on, to help one man because they feel it's right. 

It's fair to say that movie lovers will owe this film a great deal for giving us one of Hollywood's most contemporary treasured actors so far in this decade and a film that makes you see the world once again through the innocence of a young teenager on the cusp of adulthood. Fantastically written and acted and shot, Mud is a film not just for the McConaughey fans.

8/10

Begin Again

Music Has Never Felt So Good

Director: John Carney
Release Date: 2014
Rating: 15
Running Time: 105 mins
Genre: Comedy/Music
Actors: Mark Ruffalo, Keira Knightly, Adam Levine, James Cordon

It's often a treat when you sit down to watch a film that you put on to kill time and it turns out to be an instant favourite. Begin Again is a an easy to watch, light hearted and most of all feel good film that will fill you a huge sense of  love for these characters all on the path to turning their lives around and getting somewhere with the talents they have. You'll be able to, as it all comes together, feel, see and hear the ambition and passion that went into making it. 

You can see so crystal clearly how much music can influence and uplift peoples moods. When it's just you and the music, troubles can be instantly forgotten and moods straight away lifted. The film has a real raw uniqueness to it, you're able to see: the struggles, the ambition, and the happiness from what this team of musicians are achieving, that really comes out in the cinematography, giving the film an edge of 'realness'. It shows how easy you can make life when you're driven and motivated to make something great, which is shown when Mark Ruffalo and Keira Knightly take to the streets with a small group of talented musicians and a low budget recording system to do what they do best, make music.

It's a film tied together through friendship, love, music and of course a fresh start. Needless to  say that a key ingredient to make this happen is a cast of likeable and faces to carry the message through, and its easy to see that John Carney managed to get this just right. The film was able to offer up a whole bunch particularly great yet different actors to get the diversity of relationships that intertwine in this rom-com. Keira Knightly proved herself not only as an actor but also as a very unlikely yet incredible singer, writing music to help get over the problems that have taken over her life. Mark Ruffalo remains the king of on-screen coolness in his role as the passionate music producer on the road to turning his life around with his wife, daughter, job and love of music. And though still fairly new to the scene, James Cordon can be seen rising through the Hollywood ranks offering a humorous edge with an instantly lovable performance as the busking Brit who like so many, is trying to make it in New York City.

Though all the characters have their baggage, its clear that when the music takes over and they work in unison all is soon forgotten and gradually you see the problems begin to fade away. It's a film with plenty inside and will surely make you feel something. With light hearted humour and fantastically written and Oscar nominated soundtrack, you can't help but enjoy this film. If you're looking for light comedy and in need of uplifting, you can't get more perfect that Begin Again.

8/10

Whiplash

How far would you go to be great?

"I push people beyond what's expected of them, I believe that's an absolute necessity"

Director: Damien Chazelle
Release Date: 2015
Rating: 15
Running Time: 100 mins
Genre: Thriller/Music/Drama
Starring: Miles Teller, JK Simmons

We all had that teacher growing up that we wanted to impress, but never once did we hear the words "Good Job" get spoken to us. Maybe we weren't good enough or maybe they just never took enough notice to realise what we are actually worth. For Shaffer professor and conductor Terrance Fletcher (Simmons), he believes that there are no two words in the English language more harmful. It get's to the point where you have to ask how far can a young talent be pushed to become great? Moreover, how far can a young talent push themselves before they end up falling over the edge? In this case, almost too far.

Set  at Chafer University, one of the top music universities in the world, a young drummer tries everything in his power to prove to his teacher that he can be one of the greats. He pushes himself and pushes himself until his hands bleed but still cannot gain any form of praise from his teacher nor meet with his overly high standards.You could question how good a film about a drummer could really be when presented in the form of a thriller, answer, very good indeed. Something about the directing, quick pace editing and punchy jazz symphonies made for a gripping watch indeed, so much so that the powerful song the young musicians are constantly forced to play, "WHIPLASH", can be heard every time the film gets mentioned.

Probably most famously know for his role as J.Jonah Jameson Jr in Sam Raimi's Spiderman, it's not unfair to say that JK Simmons hasn't really been the front man of any film, but that's all changed now as he's been awrded with not only the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor but an Accademy Award as well. The role of Terrence Fletcher, is not only a tough one to play, but it's also a very controversial one to view. Everyone who see's Whiplash is going to have there own opinion of the man, some may not like him, some will agree with him and others may just think he's an absolute arsehole. Anyway you look at it, one thing's for sure, JK Simmons sure can shout.

As well as Simmons performance being noticed for his talent, Miles Teller, soon to turn Mr Fantastic later in the year, is starting what appears to be a very good run in Hollywood and was completely brilliant in what could also be called a rather controversial role, alongside supporting actor JK. Having come from US teen party films, he's now entering a strong career of acting ahead of him. And having just hosted the "Sci-Tech" film awards along with Margot Robbing (The Wolf of Wall Street, Focus) he's becoming a very recognised face in popular film culture.

I think Whiplash is a film that all adults can enjoy. It's gripping, tense, frightening and in some parts even funny. An all round well made film that will stay with you for a long time. Thoroughly deserved awards, a fantastically made film.

9/10

Chef

Mouth-Wateringly Funny

Director: John Favreau
Release Date: 2014
Rating: 15
Running Time: 110 mins
Genre: Comedy
Starring: John Favreau, Sofia Vergara, Dustin Hoffman, Robert Downey Jr, Scarlett Johansson

Take a slab of comedy, add a dash of style, a sprinkle of Latin music and finally a big off sandwich van and you've got John Favreau's feel good summer comedy Chef. This film stands out as one of the strongest feel good films of last year being both highly entertaining, heart warming and most of all mouth-wateringly funny.

When Chef Carl quits his job after refusing to work any longer for uptight restaurant owner Dustin Hoffman, he takes it upon himself; with the help of his son, best friend and fellow chef John Leguizamo, and of course twitter, to set up his own mobile sandwich business which might just have turned out to be the best move in his career.

Despite skipping the cinema and going straight to DVD in the UK, if you want a feel good comedy, inspiration of cooking and then this is certainly that fil. Though there's no real complexity to the plot, it's just a good time, simplistic and funny. As Favreau's directorial début it's fair to say he's got talent, with fantastic cinematography making the food look so tempting critics are naming it Food Porn. It was good to see Favreau bring in his Iron Man buddies as well to cameo, with the likes of Scarlett Johansson and Robert Downey Jr, he did pull together a fantastic cast. The chemistry on set between Favreau and his movie son Emjay Anthony was brilliant and I know most child actors never really go on to pursue an adult career in acting but for me, the young star almost stole the film.

Although in parts the humour can be slightly boystrous and somewhat crude, overall it's a very heart-warming family film that's worth giving a watch if you're in the mood for something light and entertaining. Slightly boystrous humour but overlly touching and inspiring. Just make sure you've eaten a good meal before hand as it'll build you up quite an appetite if watched on an empty stomach.

Fantastically feel good.

8/10

Dawn of Planet of The Apes

Some Serious Monkey Business

Director: Matt Reeves
Release Date: 2014
Rating: 12
Running Time: 130 mins
Genre: Action/Drama
Starring: Andy Serkis, Gary Oldman, Jason Clarke

"I always think Apes are better than humans, I see now how similar we are"

Before I was forced to sit down and watch this with some of my family on boxing day just gone, I had never been interested in the Planet of The Apes series at all, nor had I even bothered to watch any of them in the past. To me, monkeys had just never been that interesting on screen. I once tried watching Peter Jackson's King Kong but just couldn't get into it. So having no motivation to watch this CGI'd primate epic with no idea of what had happened previously in Rise of The Planet of The Apes, I sat down recovering from my hangover and tried to watch it and it really didn't take long until I was completely hooked.

I found the whole thing fascinating, it speaks not just on a moral level, but a human level as well, begging the question can we all find a way to live in peace. It speaks truths that not all species are bad, but not any are perfect and there's good and bad on all sides. Despite the war and violence that goes on, its a film that I'm sure all audiences can relate to. Having not seen any of the others in the series previously, I'm not sure if all are similar to it's latest instalment. Though I have got to say, it has now made me determined to watch them all and find out.

Andy Serkis revives his role as Cesar, leader of the apes, and its got to be said that, although he may not have been at all recognisable, he still plays the role incredibly well. I would've thought he'd be up for best actor in a leading role at this years Academy Awards, though maybe that's just my opinion. It made me think of how long it would've taken him, in a CGI suit for weeks on end, to get the role just right. Though having played characters such as King Kong and Gollum previously, I'm sure he's no stranger to those climbing into those tight suits with light bulbs stuck all over them. The human characters are also well acted and make it really difficult for us to pick sides on who to support. There's a clear message that there's good and bad on both sides and it's how we choose to act that's important.

There's no denying Dawn of The Planet of The Apes is a film that will really make you think about morals and how we aren't too different from other animals if we work together. It's a film that's got everything from action to romance. An exceptional film.

8/10