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Reviews
The Others (2001)
Great old fashioned ghost story
I didnt expect too much from this film, but to my surprise i really enjoyed it. This movie is, thankfully, short on special effects and long on atmoshpere and mood. The setting, an old house in 1940s Jersey, is inspired (no Americans, thats not near Trenton)! The acting is first rate and the English kids are much less "cutie pie" than their American equivilants, which is a real bonus. This is a genuinely scary film, but not for those who enjoyed "Scooby Doo- The movie"
The Dead Zone (1983)
A superb, underrated film
This film stays pretty much close to the Steven King novel, the story of a man with second sight is both fascinating and chilling, but, for me, the outstanding image of the film is the extraordinary performance from Christopher Walken. This is an actor well known in Hollywood for his wild living, but he is so convincing as the small town teacher who is both kind and vulnerable and completely unworldly. The film will be enjoyed by Sci-fi-horror fans, but for those with a more cerebral slant, the acting makes this movie both touching and poignant. Great support from Martin Sheen (playing a somewhat different presidential candidate than that in "The west wing") and Herbert Lom. Check this film out i will guarantee you will enjoy it more then you thought you would.
Arthur of the Britons (1972)
A great early memory.
Although i could have only been 6 or 7 at the time, i remember Arthur of the Britons quite clearly (I can even still hum the theme tune). The programme left quite an impression on me with its realistic depiction of Dark age Briton. I think it was a major reason why i became so interested in history as a kid and still am to this day. I only wish this series was avaliable on Video/DVD.
Shockers: Parent's Night (2000)
Scary and poignant
This is a strange piece of British film, its actually quite scary and very poignant. It works on two levels, firstly as an effective short thriller (something that the British use to make rather well). Secondly, and more importantly, its a poignant look at working class youth today. It actually feels real, even teenagers (those harshest of critics) will recognise the characters and their sad world. This short film will stay with you for some time, excellant acting (especially from the young bully) and extremely well directed. Not many people would have seen this, but check it out. I think it would have worked really well as a short, accompanying a british feature at the cinema.
Get Carter (1971)
Forget Lock Stock and 2 smoking......
Forget Lock stock...this is how a British gangster film should be made. Michael Caine is excellent as the London based hardman going back to Newcastle to avenge the death of his brother. The use of provincial locations in the early 1970s is almost unique in british cinema. Newcastle itself, it has to be said,looks as cold and ruthless as Jack Carter himself and wouldnt be used by the North of England tourist board.Look out for some first rate performances especially Ian Hendry and the playwrite John Osbourne as a sinister Mr Big.The film is violent and uncompromising but also very entertaining with a neat line in black humour. Dont miss it!
The Beast (1988)
interesting take on a fascinating part of recent history
i was interested to see an american take on the russian experience in afghanistan; and im pleased to say it works really well, viewing the conflict from both sides in a fair and surprisingly impartial way.