Entertainment Reviews

It’s been a long time between films for production company Working Dog. Entering the movie business with ‘The Castle’ and ‘The Dish’, the local film-makers return after a 12 year hiatus. Maybe their time creating mass entertainment for commercial TV has blunted their comedic edge as ‘Any Questions for Ben?’ is sorely lacking laughs. Where ‘The Castle’ gently mocked suburbia and ‘The Dish’ softly lampooned country life, their new venture targets the Generation X brigade with less success.

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Martha’ provides an interesting examination of what happens when a member leaves a cult. Indoctrinated into the ways of such a group, how they function without this support base drives proceedings. Written and directed with low key intensity by Sean Durkin and acted by a fine ensemble it shows how a cult’s power can still grip long after a follower’s departure.

When handled well cinematic biographies can be compelling. A subject’s personality with many facets helps spin a story in any direction. ‘J. Edgar’ tries valiantly as it charts one of the 20th century’s most powerful men. Only vaguely succeeding, the measured study of power and its consequences attempts to paint an intimate portrait of someone whose influence was felt for generations.

If the ‘Twilight’ movies have shown a romantic side to vampires and werewolves the ‘Underworld’ series has seen them at their most blood-thirsty. A high octane action franchise, its fourth entry sees the battle between the supernatural beasts kick up a notch. A celebration of noise and spectacle than acting, it does the job in ensuring fans obtain the most out of its heavily CGI-led monster mash.

Previously filmed as an acclaimed TV adaptation, John Le Carre’s novel ‘Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy’ has become one of the most well-known espionage thrillers. Resolutely set within the corridors of power than ‘out in the field’ like similar works it is no less enthralling. A fascinating study in the twisting of information proving a Cold War tale can still intrigue in this welcome cinematic rendition.

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There aren’t many original film ideas these days with each copying the other in the hope of making more dollars. ‘A Few Best Men’ is no different as it replicates the recent template of the ‘Hangover’ and ‘Bridesmaids’ movies. Set in the picturesque Australian Blue Mountains it treads a familiar path. Occasionally it amuses as the mix of American-style slapstick comedy and English farce blend within the local landscape.

The Descendants has already won rave reviews for George Clooney’s performance. Now firmly established as one of Hollywood’s reliable and bankable stars, his films are usually worth seeing. That he’s directed by Alexander Payne, who oversaw ‘About Schmidt’ and ‘Sideways’, is also a bonus. The Descendants’ story is one worthy of their talents as it delves into the realms of loss and change in a uniquely measured manner.

The Muppets have been an enduring part of many childhoods. They made a big impact on mine as Jim Henson’s puppet creations captured my imagination with their antics on The Muppet Show. Their various films have been just as good with this latest their first for many years. Like an old friend you haven’t seen for some-time it’s a pleasure being reacquainted with these zany and always entertaining characters.

Based on Brian Selznick’s novel it’s easy seeing how Hugo’s story attracted director Martin Scorsese. Detailing a boy’s love of movies it equals the passion Scorsese has shown towards his craft. Although rather unorthodox given his previous adult orientated output, it finds Scorsese delivering a film for younger viewers. Generally succeeding in conjuring an enchanting tale his determination in exploring all facets of a medium in which he has made his name is admirable.