Blade Runner: The Final Cut Review

A Future Perfected -- An analysis of nostalgia, vision and cinema. Article by Ben Nash

At the beginning of the month, Ridley Scott’s iconic science-fiction/film-noir, Blade Runner: The Final Cut was re-released to the general public for a limited time only. I dragged some reluctant friends to my local Odeon, and we sat down and drank it all in, in glorious HD with surround sound. Before we go any further, though, here’s a little history: based on the book Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K Dick, and released initially in 1982, Blade Runner was a commercial flop which sharply divided critics. Most claimed that the story took a back seat to the effects and was not the action/adventure film advertised, while others claimed that it was the start of something new. However all agreed that the ending needed to be fixed. For the purposes of keeping the story a surprise to those poor souls who haven’t seen this film, I won’t spoil anything here.

Regardless of what people thought of it at first, though, in the coming years, Blade Runner developed a cult following and is to this day widely regarded as a revolutionary sci-fi gem which has inspired countless films such as Akira and even The Matrix, as well as the archetypal cyber-punk city used in most dystopian films, comic books and video games alike - just Google ‘Blade Runner City’ and you’ll see what I mean. It also spawned not one but two edits, referred to as ‘The Director’s Cut’ (which I’m sure nobody’s seen) and The Final Cut, the one released in cinemas; also it’s the title of this review, which should give you some suggestion of which one I was reviewing. I’d be worried if you didn’t see that - it’s pretty big.

However all this may be fine and dandy, but does it hold up in an age where films like Gravity and Avatar (yes, it’s a terrible film, but you can’t argue that the special effects don’t look amazing) exist? The answer is yes, yes it does. Not only that, but I can say with total assurance that Blade Runner is the greatest science fiction film of all time and the second greatest film ever made. This is an art form that began over 125 years ago, just let that sink in.

The story is set in Los Angeles 2019: big business dominates everything, skyscrapers and pollution blot out the sun and it’s always raining [insert ‘a bit like real LA’ joke here] and humankind has made the next step in Artificial Intelligence with ‘Replicants’: organic robots that can think for themselves and develop their own emotions, however after a bloody uprising Replicants are declared illegal and police officers known as ‘Blade Runner Units’ are tasked with hunting them down.

We follow a certain Blade Runner, Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) as he’s charged with tracking down a group of new models called ‘Nexus 6’ led by Roy Batty (Rutger Hauer). The hunt commences, and as Deckard gets closer to his goal, the line that determines what makes something truly human is distorted. But be warned: THIS IS NOT INDIANA JONES IN THE FUTURE!

This isn’t a film of epic shootouts and ballsy 80s one-liners straight from the scripts of films like Escape from New York or Die Hard. It’s actually quite a sombre thought piece about ethical decisions. Most of the time the replicants that Deckard is mercilessly gunning down, or ‘retiring’ as the police force queasily puts it, you get a strong sense of brutality from the side who’re supposed to be the good guys. There’s a particularly powerful scene in which a defenceless woman is shot repeatedly as she’s running for her life.

It’s scenes like this that make Blade Runner truly special: it knows how to deliver the correct amount of emotional payoff to a climactic scene such as that, and delivers just enough moral ambiguity so as to make you feel like you haven’t been force-fed information, and the director hasn’t come in with a loud-hailer and started screaming ‘THIS IS WHAT I WANT YOU TO FEEL!’. In other words, it lets you decide what to make of the actions you’ve just seen.

Admittedly the replicants are represented as sympathetic characters, albeit with some extremely violent and malicious streaks, but why wouldn’t they be? They’re social outcasts constantly persecuted and demonised, because they just want to live. This all feeds in perfectly to the film’s themes of humanity and the impact of technology on society. Through the use of the brilliantly-crafted character of Roy Batty, Scott examines various modern philosophies and notions of religion, as well as literary references to Frankenstein’s monster outgrowing his creator. He’s poetic, not pretentious, and his final monologue is nothing short of heartbreaking.

At many points in the film, the replicants appear more human than the human characters, with particular emphasis on Deckard who doesn’t appear to be remotely disturbed by the brutal acts he’s committing. There’s even a faint tease that Deckard himself is a replicant, prompting the audience to completely re-evaluate their opinions, and further call into question what’s truly ‘human’. Yes indeed, it’s a true gem of intellectually-stimulating cinema, and with the real-world global conflict happening around us today, some of its themes are more relevant today than ever before. It’s truly timeless, and you can read more about why in a fantastic article in the Guardian which you can find a weblink to on the College Magazine website.

I’d even go as far as to say that Blade Runner hasn’t aged a day. The stunning combination of practical effects, such as the design on some of the model buildings and fully-realised futuristic tech are still beautiful to behold. There’s a great sense of scale, captured in the camerawork and it’s a dazzling experience regardless of whether or not you were raised in an age when Godzilla was a man in a rubber suit, or when the wickedly talented one and only Adele Dazeem skipped through powdery snow singing the most hated song ever.

As I’ve mentioned earlier, it’s a film noir, and stylistically it’s exactly this: the vast and sprawling cityscape and dingy interiors complement the thematic setting perfectly, with the cinematography complementing the dark mood perfectly. Cigarette smoke envelopes characters, and there’s a strong oriental element to the city, reminiscent of films like Chinatown and Philip Marlowe Adventures. In previous versions the protagonist was given a monologue, which has since been removed. If you ask me, this is to the film’s advantage, as some scenes work much better as silent reflection.

It’s all from a 1980s perspective of what might have been, mind you. The monitors are quite low-res and staticky and those with keen eyes will spot some slightly outdated product placement, such as TDK and Atari. You could argue that this does in fact date the film, but it ultimately adds to the it’s charm: it’s a film of it’s time, but at the same time not, curiously. Everything complements the seedy lifestyle of the not too distant future perfectly, and the editors have been smart enough not to tamper with anything, although some digital re-renderings of characters that previously turned into stunt men for a split second, here and there don’t hurt at all. Other than that it’s been untouched.

Of course, you can’t have a Blade Runner review without talking about the score by Greek synth legend Vangelis. It’s 80s to the core, with keyboards and electronic instruments, giving it that great futuristic feel, but also strongly grounding it in that film noir theme with real instruments for the ‘Love Theme’ and ‘Blade Runner Blues’, and an emotional, languishing piano piece called ‘Rachel’s Song’. It’s a rare example of an original soundtrack being good enough to listen to on its own. Once you’ve bought Blade Runner Steelbook on Blu-Ray, go out and buy the 3-Disc Anniversary edition of the soundtrack and let it wash over you.

This…is…just…cinema at its finest, and you just have to watch the opening credits to see why. It goes without saying that this is also by far and a way Ridley Scott’s finest film, which is saying something coming from the man behind Thelma & Louise and Alien, another game-changing sci-fi film. Every time I watch it I notice some new little intricacy that makes it that bit more special. If you haven’t seen it, you owe it to yourself.

10/10 -- This is by no means a George Lucas remaster of the original trilogy, this is a glance at what cinema can do in the right hands that spent 29 years in the making.

Birdman Or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) Review

a.k.a. Bat Swan -- Michael Keaton pioneers yet another attempt to bring a superhero to the stage.

Superheroes are a staple of pop culture, with some even calling them the Greek Heroes of the modern age. Marvel rules cinema, and chatrooms around the world are devoted to explaining why Ben Affleck shouldn’t be Batman. Yeah, if it has ‘superhero’ plastered to it, it’s going to be successful. Mexican filmmaker, Alejandro González Iñárritu’s latest endeavour is no exception to this rule. Extremely odd, considering that Birdman isn’t a superhero film.

Yes, it has superheroes (or should I say a superhero) in it, but it’s not about them. Not once does our main character deliver a spinning wushu kick to a faceless henchmen or stop a bank robber with some kind of ornate death ray, in fact the only time he breaks a sweat is when he has to make an agonising crawl through Times Square in his underpants with people crowding him and asking for autographs. In fact, for the majority of the running time, the setting is the backstage of a theatre. Oh it’s an odd one alright, but say what you want about this outlandish premise; this movie managed to get nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Cinematography, with good reason, too.

It follows fading celebrity, Riggan Thompson (Michael Keaton), star of the beloved ‘Birdman’ franchise as he tries to put on a Raymond Calver adaptation of What We Talk About When We Talk About Love. Throughout the final stages of rehearsal, and several increasingly disastrous premieres, Riggan faces adversity in any direction he turns: everyone from his own cast to the disembodied voice of the comic book character that made him famous.

As you might have guessed from the description, this film is an all-singing, all-dancing depiction for the twilight years of stardom. Riggan has put blood, sweat and tears into trying to get back a little bit of artistic integrity, and maybe some kudos too. True, it’s very obviously a massive metaphor for acting careers (they’re everywhere one minute, and then the next month people are saying ‘Dolph…who?’), but it successfully shows what many have tried and failed to in the past: how the actors feel about this. Yes, there are some nods that people remember Birdman, but it’s not exactly like they remember the actor. Riggan is so out of touch with the world that it’s almost like he doesn’t deserve recognition, at one point, his daughter, Sam (a manically brilliant Emma Stone), points out that he doesn’t even have Facebook or Twitter. He talks about artistic integrity, but then seems to care more about getting in good with the press than he does with how good he feels about the play he’s making.

Surprisingly, though, this makes Riggan a very sympathetic character. With every last ditch attempt to save his final career choice from obscurity and a prestigious New York Times Critic (Andrea Riseborough), you can’t help but root for him when everyone else is telling him to give it up. This is anchored solely by Michael Keaton’s performance, which captures perfectly the isolation, energy and surprising heart that his character has. This film is even, dare I say, a direct metaphor for his career: Batman made him famous, but after Batman Returns, he drifted for a while until this film garnered him a new audience and new critical acclaim.

As well as an astonishing character study, Birdman is also a searing indictment of popular culture and the power of the press and reviewers (ahem). Riggan’s Birdman persona (who has some of the best lines in the entire film) is constantly taunting him at how this arty stuff is a waste of time, and all people want out of entertainment is mindless action, which is referred to as ‘cultural genocide’ at one point in the film. There’s even a jab at franchises like The Expendables when Birdman says ‘sixty is the new thirty!’ At the beginning, we see Riggan accused (quite rightfully) of trying to save his neck by putting on a classy play, when in truth all he is is a ‘washed-up comic strip character’, while a tabloid journalist accuses him of injecting himself with pig semen as a way of age-rejuvenation. Later, a video posted of a near naked Riggan running through Times Square begins to develop an internet following, and Sam’s last words on the matter are: ‘this is power’.

Iñárritu’s direction is wonderful, obviously, this is after all the man who made Biutiful, however he would be nothing without this film’s supporting cast. Edward Norton plays Mike Shiner, a conceited stage actor drunk on his self-importance, and a bottle of gin at one point, who repeatedly makes Riggan’s job a living Hell as he attempts to bear all in the name of art. True, he’s the one with any real artistic integrity, but the way he behaves, and the lengths he goes to make him a soulmate of Riggan in the oddest way possible. The rest of the cast are brilliant, mind you, but it’s Norton’s comedic drive and energy that make him stand out among the rest.

Credit also has to go to Emmanuel Lubezki (who you might know from Gravity if you’re as big a film nerd as I am) for his Godly cinematography. The choice to shoot the film as if it were one continuous take is one part genius and one part perplexing. Some will get turned off by the long, uninterrupted corridor crawls from point A to point B with occasional jazz drums as the only soundtrack, however these all add to the film’s motifs of mounting tension and anger.

I’ve probably run out of space by this point, but seriously, I can’t sing this film’s praises enough. It’s the best film I’ve seen this year, and it’s quite definitely one of the best films of all time as well. If you get the chance to watch it, you should. It may not have as many explosions as Kingsman: The Secret Service, but it has twice its wit and twice its brains, which is really saying something.

Final Verdict:

10/10 -- This isn’t so much The Dark Knight, as it is the dark knight of the soul.

The Theory of Everything

Oscar season is fast approaching and amongst the British stars nominated for ‘Best Actor’ is Eddie Redmayne for his performance in, ’The Theory of Everything’ in which he plays Professor Stephen Hawking. This film is reviewed by Violet Daniels below. 

The Theory of Everything is a British made film, directed by James Marsh and staring Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones, Charlie Cox and David Thewlis. The biographical drama follows closely the novel, ’Travelling to Infinity: My life with Stephen’ which is written by Jane Hawking, previous wife of Professor Stephen Hawking. 

Stephen Hawking is known internationally for his astounding contribution to theoretical physics and the understanding of gravitational theorems and his work in the field of general relativity. But above all he is known throughout the world for being a medical phenomenon. Stephen Hawking was diagnosed with motor neurone disease at the age of just 21 and was given just a few years to live. Initially, he and everyone around him was devastated. However Stephen learnt to love life with everything he had, claiming that, ‘before my condition was diagnosed, I had been very bored with life.’ After his diagnosis Stephen was hit with the realisation that he may never complete his PhD. Despite this he did achieve his PhD and after his diagnosis went on to marry and have three children.  In present day, Stephen continues to be an inspiration to many and in doing so provides us all with a life story which is fundamental as it  embodies the life of one of the greatest scientists in human history.  

The Theory of Everything is a phenomenal film. Often, the word ‘phenomenal’ is over used to describe just above average films, books and TV shows ect. However I saw Eddie Redmayne’s performance in The Theory of Everything and it was phenomenal. The stance, the facial expressions, and the mannerisms all reflected my imagination and how I have always perceived Stephen Hawking. Before filming Eddie Redmayne even spent time with Stephen Hawking and this has been proved to be affective as his astounding performance mirrors the very person that is Stephen Hawing. As a result of his performance, Eddie is nominated for best actor in the annual Oscar academy awards in America. The film itself is expertly directed by James Marsh. In his directing the film depicts eloquently the life of Stephen Hawking as he is crippled by the fatal motor neurone disease which impacts his own life and the people around him. The film takes the viewer on a journey of discovery behind the man we all know of, but have never really learnt much about. Before watching this film, I had no idea of Stephen Hawking’s life outside of Science and I was shocked to discover the extent of his personal life and the challenges he and his family faced. 

Before watching this film, I had no idea of Stephen Hawking’s life outside of Science and I was shocked to discover the extent of his personal life and the challenges he and his family faced. 

The film follows Stephen from his first days as a young student at Cambridge University when he is studying for a PhD. Not even half way through his PhD he is given the news that he has motor neurone disease, known amongst most medics of the time to be incurable and with a life expectancy of just a few years. The film shows Stephen as he cuts himself off from his fellow friends at Cambridge and his girlfriend, Jane Wilde. Thus through expert cinematography the viewer realises how isolated Stephen Hawking became during the years of his life which should have been full of adventure and discovery. However this step back did not stop him in his road to completing a PhD.

Through the help of his friends and the support of his girlfriend Jane, Stephen is able to grab life with both hands as he attempts to fight and tackle his illness. As the film develops, so does Stephen Hawking’s condition. With time he deteriorates as his body cannot carry out normal day to day bodily functions. Gradually he needs more and more help from others and has to rely on the support of his (then wife) Jane. 

The film itself stresses the strain Stephen’s condition puts on Jane and his children at the time. Jane has to spend a lot of her time looking after Stephen and sometimes the children are abandoned for the sake of Stephen’s condition. The Theory of Everything portrays this disease to have a greater impact than I initially assumed. The disease controls Stephen’s life and everyone else's lives around him. In particular the film focuses on the relationship between Stephen and Jane. Jane is played by actress Felicity Jones, her expert performance enables the audience to realise the strain which a life threatening disease can put on a relationship. Furthermore the film manages to depict throughout the constant struggle that Stephen’s condition brings to his own family. The acting from all points of view is astoundingly life like, as being part of an audience for a screening of The Theory of Everything I can confirm that the film made me feel completely involved with the tragic, real life story which Stephen still carries with him even to this day. 

As the annual Academy Oscar Awards approaches all eyes are on Eddie Redmayne for his chance to pick up an award for best male actor in this film. Currently only 16 British male actors have won this prestigious award. However for now the ceremony still awaits as the battle against Benedict Cumberbatch and his role as Alan Turing in The Imitation Game  and Eddie Redmayne and his performance as Stephen Hawking in The Theory of Everything awaits a verdict. I have seen both nominated performances and forgive me if I am biased, but I would most definitely give the award to Eddie Redmayne. Additionally, only recently did Eddie Redmayne pick up the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor and also he won the award for Best Actor in the SAG (screen actors guild award) to which he dedicated this to, “those people around the world living with ALS, to those who have lost their lives to this brutal disease." Hopes remain high for Eddie Redmayne and this astounding performance of a generation, however only time will tell us whether he will receive this award.

10 Films to Look Out For in 2015

2014 was a great year for cinema, some might even say the best in some while. But can 2015 produce something even better? Let’s see!

01. Birdman

Release Date: 2nd Jan

Much like his character in the film, Michael Keaton’s career, only really remembered for that one iconic superhero role, returns from the depths of inconspicuousness with one triumphant performance. Add the disembodied voice of Keaton’s conscience, fantastic supporting performances from the likes of Edward Norton and Emma Stone, and some jaw-dropping visuals; and you’ve got yourself a film for the ages.

02. Whiplash

Release Date: 16th Jan

A thriller about drumming sounds boring, however the solid stream of five star reviews and multiple Oscar nominations say otherwise. The general consensus is that JK Simmons gives the performance of his career and that this is the greatest musical film (with no actual musical numbers) ever made.

03. Foxcatcher

Release Date: 17th Jan

Yet another dark and edgy biographical drama, this time focusing on the apparently dark and edgy world of Olympic wrestling. Fangirls in the audience will swoon at the appearance of hunk-of-the-month, Channing Tatum, while film buffs will enjoy an unrecognisable Steve Carrel, as he joins the Keaton/Simmons pantheon of actors who’re suddenly godlike.

04. Inherent Vice

Release Date: 30th Jan

Based on one of the better liked works of popular avant-garde novelist, Thomas Pynchon is one thing. But with the addition of director Paul Thomas Anderson (a seal of quality), and you’ve got yourself a film that needs to be seen. So far, this looks to be yet another work of his that the director can safely stow under his belt, and the roster of screwball PTA token characters are ever present, including Joaquin Phoenix returning as the frontman. This truly is a day to mark in your calendar!

05. Avengers: Age of Ultron

Release Date: 1st May

Joss Whedon has tackled the first computer-animated film ever, kept series like Buffy and Angel fresh after countless seasons, found a way to resurrect his beloved space-western and broken box office records with Avengers Assemble. However, with Ultron, Whedon faces possibly his biggest challenge yet: meeting the inflated expectations of fans with a film so hyped that it already developed an internet meme before release. You can’t blame the fans, though: a trailer shows Quicksilver, ballet and Hulkbuster. How can we help being anything other than ecstatic?

06. Mad Max: Fury Road

Release Date: 15th May

After the lead actor went cuckoo and disappeared off everyone’s radar, it’s no wonder George Miller’s beloved post-apunkalyptic franchise went so silent for so long. Or maybe it’s because Max’s latest batty outing was in the works being perfected. Based on early footage and the frankly genius tagline of “What a lovely day!”, we suspect the latter.

07. Jurassic World

Release Date: 12th June

Doing for dinosaurs what Jaws did for sharks AGAIN, but with the addition of Chris Pratt and a genetically-modified super dinosaur this time round. All the key components are there, and the filmmakers definitely have captured the scale that the first one had. However is it possible that they’ve managed to pull off that same sense of wonder that the original had? Probably not, but the director’s previous works include Safety Not Guaranteed, so we should expect something decent.

08. Minions

Release Date: 10th Jul

The yellow pill-men solely responsible for making the Despicable Me franchise so popular now have their own movie. It’ll make millions, people will love it. MOVING ON!

09. Ant Man

Release Date: 17th July

It’s unlikely that director, Peyton Reed, will be able to breathe the same life that Scott Pilgrim and Hot Fuzz director, Edgar Wright could have done with his script. With that being said, Disney/Marvel appear to be on a roll with their ideas and execution (evidenced by the fact that they made me and countless others feel for a raccoon and a tree), and the two leads, in the form of Paul Rudd and Michael Douglas make for an acting combination not to be sneered at.

10. Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Release Date: 18th Dec

This is the film that everyone is looking forward to . JJ Abrams makes another turn rebooting a beloved sci-fi franchise, this time, under the supervision of the House of Mouse. As is the way with most of Abrams’ projects, little is known, however a teaser showcases practical effects fused with crisp CGI, football robots, impractical lightsabers and the Millennium Falcon. If this isn’t the most profitable film of the year, then we’ll eat a fridge.

October/November Movie Preview

The summer blockbuster season is over and the September dry patch is done so now we find ourselves at the teasing period as we move into Oscar season. Films always risk crossing a fine line in this season, blending in with all the other dry contenders for the academies attention and trying to hard, delivering a forced and boring final picture or being mindless and silly in comparison to the relatively high bar everyone else is trying to hit. This is the season for filmmakers to get noticed in and there is a mixture of films that want your attention this year.

Arguably the most prominent of them all is The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 (20th November) but talking to in depth about this is probably a waste of time as anyone that will watch this movie probably already knows they want to. The Hunger Games is a massive franchise with a huge fan base and films that seem to be raising their game with each instalment and while it’ll probably end up being good is it going to be great? We’ll have to wait and see, though it is based on the dullest time in the books so that doesn’t raise much hope.

On the opposite end of the addition to a franchise scale Michael Bay’s new movie Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (17th October) isn’t one that seems like it would appeal to anyone really. The turtles are too gritty and serious looking to appeal to the young kids that the ninja turtles are meant to appeal to but the pure concept is to silly to be taking as a gritty and serious movie by anyone. It’ll probably end up somehow doing well in box offices, mainly down to Megan Fox playing the role of “girl” and the big name in the title but this one looks to be mindless and boring trash and you’d probably get more excitement investing your money into an actual turtle. And they’re dull pets.

It’s difficult to pin David Ayer’s Fury (24th October) down. It’s coming fresh from the director of last year’s excellent cop action flick End Of Watch so it’s in capable hands but the tone of the film is difficult to grasp from the trailers. On one hand it could be an attempt at bringing something gritty to Oscar season, maybe even a best supporting actor grab for Logan Lerman who until now has put on talented performances but not really found his footing as an actor. However, it could also end up being a mindless war flick that’s trying a little bit too hard to feed morals to it’s audience. The film will have to find out what message it’s trying to convey, war flick or powerful story of friendship between soldiers, if it’s going to succeed. Brad Pitt is currently having an unstoppable career so it can probably be predicted that he will put on a show as the man in charge of this platoon, a role that undeniably suits him. The weakness in the main cast is love him or hate him Shia Lebouf who could be using this as a comeback after all the press against him recently. It’s still difficult to argue against the idea of him playing a religious soldier in a tank squadron, especially after all his stuttering school boy roles he seems to have been grabbing, is an odd one.

Death seems to be a bit of a running theme this season with Book of Life (24th October) and Life After Beth (1st October) both addressing it. The former is an animation by filmmaking legend Guaellmo Del Toro about the Mexican festival of death and the latter being an addition to the zomromcom genre starring up and coming talents Dane Dehann and Aubrey Plaza. To be honest the animation seems the more appealing of the two with the trailers showing so much stunning content and giving off a similar vibe to movies such as Coraline and the Box Trolls, that genre of kids films that can mess a child up, teach them some important lessons and show them enough fun imagery to entertain them. Those are the best kids movies for the Halloween season and Book of Life looks set to deliver just that. Life After Beth on the other hand is this seasons Halloween date movie for the couples that don’t want to see an actual horror film and it could probably go either way. The cast are really good but the plot seems very dejavu, the idea of a girlfriend coming back from the date feeling like it’s been done before even if it hasn’t. For zomromcoms Shaun of the Dead and Zombieland are out on dvd people and they’re probably better investments.

A quick run through of other films coming out this season would include Interstellar (7th November), Christopher Nolan’s new movie. This is a man who always delivers something unique and interesting when he directs though the film does appear to be shooting for crazy heights in terms of plot and it’s a struggle to work out how all the content promised by trailers is going to fit in. Nevertheless Nolan will undoubtedly give it his best shot. The Judge (17th October) is a father son bonding story starring Robert Downy Jr, a man who’s career right now can do no wrong. It’s unclear as to whether the film will focus more on the parent/child relationship or the lawyer story that it’s based around but it’s definitely going to be well acted, that much is true. There’s also The Drop (14th November) starring Tom Hardy. This film is an old fashioned crime noir that has received nothing but positive press from the film festivals it’s showcased at so if crime is your thing it’ll probably be worth checking out.
Finally Gone Girl (3rd October) is the film to watch this season. It’s a psychological thriller of epic proportions based on the best selling book and nothing but good things have been said about it. The plot is still shadowed in mystery and intrigue and in that way it’ll keep you guessing until the final second. See this movie and then encourage your friends to see it just so you can talk to them about it, Gone Girl is this movie seasons must watch.

Movie Review: If I Stay

Chloe Moretz and Jamie Blackley have recently starred in the new movie ‘If I Stay’ based on the 2009 novel written by Gayle Forman.

Mia Hall (Chloe Moretz) is a young, shy teenager in high school with a passion for musical instruments—especially the cello, whilst   Adam (Jamie Blackley) is an up and coming Rock Star, in love with himself and music. When the two teenagers meet, a strong connection is made, and they begin to realise that despite their differences, they are well suited to each other.

The time frame of the film moves quickly and soon it becomes apparent that a year has passed since the two lovers have begun dating, although their awkward encounters would lead us to believe     otherwise.

Mia decides reluctantly to go on a family trip for a few days, but tragically, whilst  driving along the icy roads, her father is not concentrating fully and by the time he realises a truck is speeding towards their car, it is too late. The horrific accident leaves Mia, her parents and her brother comatose.

Most of If I Stay is based around an out-of-body experience with Mia watching herself lie motionless day after day. She also begins to have flashbacks to her time with Adam.

She is told by the nurse (whilst she is still in a coma) that it is up to her whether she lives or dies. This means that she has to decide  whether to die and be with the rest of her family (who have since been declared dead) or to live and carry on her life with her boyfriend and friends without her family.

The fantastic acting from the two main characters as well as the rest of the cast portrays to the viewer how fast things you love can be torn away from “Today.” Although it is cheesy, it feels like life which contrasts the tone of the rest of the film.

Like most films created from books, it doesn’t measure up to the story as well as fans of the book may have hoped. 

Nevertheless, it’s a great film and highly recommended to anyone who is thinking about going to see it.

The movie received a 7/10 and managed to stay at number one in the box office for  4 weeks before dropping 1 space to number 2. 

By Franki Dean.

Top Halloween Films

October is upon us and with October comes Halloween: next to results day, the scariest day of the year! And we here at Pulse believe that the best way to celebrate this holiday is to stuff yourself with chocolate and watch some good ol’ horror movies. But which ones look most promising? Well, to save you the trouble, we’ve compiled a list of our picks for the Top 21 Halloween Films. Be advised, though, many of the films on this list contain mature content.

21. From Dusk Till Dawn (1996)
One of the sillier entries on this list (which is saying something when you see some of the other stuff we’ve got on here). Rodriguez; brings his usual, fun shtick to the table, and Tarantino, who always has some great one-liners up his sleeve, both deliver a totally ridiculous take on the vampire genre, set almost entirely in a…err…gentleman’s establishment. Fast-talking, blood-spattered hijinks ensue.

20. Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
This seminal horror film may have lost its edge as an actively scary film, however the danger and uneasiness that Roman Polanski’s direction conveys still feels very real, with Farrow shining as the naïve title character. As a piece of storytelling, it still remains on that top notch that it was on way back when.

19. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
Also known as the one that started all those other found footage films, most of which no one asked for, Blair Witch has some terrible acting from its lead star, but with a bone-shaking premise and finale, it’s a satisfying film and upholds the theory that films made on a ham-sandwich-sized budget can actually be a lot better than some of the stuff that mainstream horror films are peddling.

18. Blade 2 (2002)
The first film left much to be desired. However with its sequel, director Guillermo Del Toro presents a much sleeker, better-looking and more fast-paced film, which realises that you can’t take this kind of stuff seriously and just goes for stupid, über-violent fun. Popcorn nonsense, for sure, but popcorn nonsense of the highest order starring Wesley Snipes and Ron Perlman.

17. 28 Days Later (2002)
Director Danny Boyle brought us this fantastic little horror gem at a time when zombie films were at their weakest. This breath of fresh air not only gave us some terrifyingly fast ‘rage mutants’ (oh, who are we kidding, they’re zombies) but also very often opted for scaring us with its startlingly-realised social commentary and ideas of what would happen in a social collapse instead, which was often much more effective.

16. The Haunting (1963)
You’d think that the man behind The Sound of Music, West Side Story, The Sand Pebbles and The Day the Earth Stood Still could deliver on a satisfying film. And, you’d be right. Relying more on the psychosis of its characters rather than flashy jump-scares, the film doesn’t date itself and only becomes cleverer with every repeat view. Maybe not something to watch for a laugh, but a thoroughly well-made piece of cinema nonetheless.

15. Nosferatu (1922)
This iconic silent film is still a marvel even by today’s standards, despite the absence of sound. Director F.W. Murnau blends the disturbing with the scale of the true Dracula story to great effect and the design of the vampire was a revolution. You can keep your True Blood and Hammer horror, this is still the best vampire movie ever made.

14. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
Often mistaken for a gross-out slasher flick, there is in fact so much more to Chainsaw Massacre. True, at its heart it’s pure gross-out (perfect for a night in with friends), but around that is a cinema gem with stellar-performances and masterful technical execution, pun intended. Watch it and enjoy, you sick, sick person.

13. The Fly (1986)
I think we’re better off not knowing what goes on in David Cronenberg’s head when I tell you that this is his idea of a romantic story. With that being said, though, this really is something special, and even manages to function pretty well as a romantic tragedy. Come for the character driven narrative, and stay for the glorious prosthetics that capture the physical decay of the main character (whose insect half is slowly taking over) perfectly.

12. An American Werewolf in London (1981)
John Landis’ take on the fish (or should we say ‘wolf’)-out-of-water genre is every bit as bizarre and comic as you’d expect from the man who made The Blues Brothers and the Thriller music video. Going all-out to make something truly unique, Landis swaps out silver bullets for an ironic moon-themed soundtrack, mutant Nazis, Brits from an American’s point of view and a climax in a…errr…another gentleman’s establishment. If that doesn’t sell it to you, then nothing will.

11. Shaun of the Dead (2003)
Fresh off the Spaced wagon, Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg bring us arguably their most popular film. A film that contains so many nods to pop-culture and their previous work, that people have actually written essays and created drinking games because of them. Spend a joyous evening laughing your head off and quoting the glorious dialogue. I just have to ask, ‘want anything from the shop?’

10. The Wicker Man (1973)
For the record, we’re not talking about the remake starring Nicolas Cage (however, listening to him screaming about bees is very funny; treat yourself and watch it on YouTube). The original starring Edward Woodward and Christopher Lee still remains superior: a fantastically scary tale of human sacrifice and what people will do in the name of religion. It’s withstood the test of time so far, and won’t be forgotten anytime soon.

09. Night of the Living Dead/Dawn of the Dead/Day of the Dead (1968-1985)
Boyle may have rejuvenated the zombie genre and Wright may have offered a nice throwback, but the true kudos has to go to the George A Romero originals. Night provides us with terror of the unknown through the use of TV broadcasts and the threat of a group of stragglers killing anyone they come across; Dawn throws genius consumerist satire at us; while Day just opts for all-out gore. Watching a colourful roster of characters blasting their way through undead hordes has never been more fun.

08. Halloween (1978)
How often can you say that you inadvertently created a new genre, huh? HUH!? By the time you’ve finished watching it first time round, I guarantee you that this will have almost as big an impact as it did on horror movies. Stunning score and direction from John Carpenter and turns from Donald Pleasance and Jamie Lee Curtis all work up to make this jarring concept of suburban invasion the best of the best, slasher-wise.

07. The Exorcist (1973)
The so-called scariest film ever made sadly doesn’t live up to its title anymore. But that’s not to say that it doesn’t a) retain some of its horror and shock value b) continue to be an astonishing feat. Stellar performances and groundbreaking effects make this definitive take on the sub-genre of demon possession thoroughly eerie. Watched best at night, on your own with the lights out. Actually, er…lights on…Mummy!!!!

06. The Thing (1982)
After Halloween there was the question of where John Carpenter was going to go next with horror. Answer: The Thing. And listen, when I say that Kurt Russell and a soundtrack by film-score composing legend Ennio Morricone are some of this film’s minor accolades, you know that this is going to be good one. As the film progresses, Carpenter amps up the suspense to nail-biting levels and every so often chucks groundbreaking practical effects at us with every reveal of the newly-formed creature. The Thing is truly the definitive monster movie.

05. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Adorable and friendly doesn’t seem to be a recurring theme on this list, but because this film brought back stop-motion, we thought we’d make an exception. Combining the creative zeal of both Tim Burton (fresh off the Batman wagon) and Henry Selick, the film is a creative powerhouse combining fantastic musical numbers and iconic designs with a bittersweet story of curiosity and love.

04. Psycho (1960)
You’d expect nothing less from the master of suspense, Hitchcock. Shot on a microscopic budget, with the cast of his TV series, it seemed like it was going to be a doomed project. But one chronicle of young-secretary-meets-timid-little-mother’s-boy, set to Bernard Hermann’s iconic soundtrack, later and audiences were enthralled by one of the greatest directors’ best work. If you haven’t seen this film, you don’t like cinema, and you can immediately declare yourself totally cut off from society if you haven’t heard of the shower scene.

03. Alien (1979)
Offering nothing fancy (other than the sensationally realised and detailed sets), Alien relies  much more on sound design, score and just the notion that there’s something out there to generate scares from its audience - oh yeah, and when you do catch little glimpses of HR Geiger’s brainchild, you know straight away that it was fully worth the wait. Not only a great horror film, but also a great work of science fiction, which deserved mention in the same breath as Blade Runner and 2001.

02. The Evil Dead Trilogy (1981-1992)
Horror icon Sam Raimi entered the spotlight with his great feature debut, The Evil Dead, before turning the franchise round and opting for a more silly take on his version of the ‘demon possession’ genre. With the help of brother, Ted and college buddy, Bruce Campbell (sorry, BRUCE CAMPBELL!!!!!!), the sequels offered tenfold what the original did, with glorious slapstick and hyperkinetic camerawork. Hail to the king, baby.

01. The Shining (1980)
Stanley Kubrick’s peerless horror epic not only looks and sounds exquisite, but also functions as the best horror film ever made. Kubrick’s gorgeous trademark cinematography at work makes this something to behold in and of itself and his near-obsessive quest for perfection led to many weird and wonderful things (not least, making Jack Nicholson eat his least favourite food: cheese sandwiches). It’ll make you jump even after the seventeenth viewing, as it builds a perfect level of suspense and chills throughout, before dumping an elevator full of blood on you.

Must See Films of the Month

Whether you’re a pansy looking for a quiet night in, or a fright night fanatic ready to sink your teeth into a gory horror this Halloween, we have a film to make you weep or screech.

For the pansies: ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’

Now I know I’m a little behind on this, but this film really is a must see.  All about a troubled freshman named ‘Charlie’ who has just joined an American High School, this tale follows a group of introverts who come together through their oddities and embrace the new schoolboy into their friendship group.
This film is perfect for anyone interested in the 80s scene, with plenty of music references, including Bowie and Dexy’s Midnight Runners.

What I personally  love about this film, is the twist it withholds until the very end which I found both unpredictable and original, something which appears hard to convey these days.

Filled with laughter, good music, men dressed in suspenders and a heart-breaking narration, ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ will keep you glued to your seat until the credits. Brilliant actors, brilliant storyline, brilliant film.

For the people who enjoy a good horror film at Halloween: ‘Alien’

Why is Alien the classic horror you need to watch this  Halloween? Well for starters if you have not seen a Ridley Scott film you are in for a treat, as this classic is not one to be missed. The film stars Sigourney Weaver as the titular character of Ripley who  embarks on a journey (along with other crew members) to help  a nearby planet after they send out a help. signal to the Nostramus (groups ship) them to help. This film is one you must watch for so many reasons.

They become embroiled in a story which pits them against new creatures that they never thought existed, which is what makes this film so enjoyable. This classic horror is a must see for anyone, especially with Halloween fast approaching. So why not kick back, relax and watch Alien this half term.

Film Review: Colfer strikes his way onto cinema screens

Prepare to be Struck by Lightning with Chris Colfer’s debut film. By Kayleigh Peters

Striking his way into the film world, young actor Chris Colfer is definitely one to watch out for. Making his debut into the world of fame through the musical comedy Glee, Colfer has decided to try his hand on the other side of the camera with screen writing with the teen comedy Struck by Lightning.

This electrifying film follows the life of  high school reject Carson Phillips, played by Colfer, who’s in his senior year and trying to get into the College of his Dreams, Northwestern University, where he hopes to graduate and become a bestselling New York Times author. However, escaping the town he grew up in and learned to hate along the way is proving much harder than he first thought.

In an attempt to achieve his dreams, Carson decides that writing a literary magazine is the only way to do this. This doesn’t go down too well with his with his shallow peers. So Carson brings out his true mischievous side, and blackmails half the school in order to get entries for his magazine along with his sidekick, Malerie Baggs (Rebel Wilson, the star of Pitch Perfect).

Carson’s home life isn’t running smoothly either. Living with his divorced, jobless, forever drunken and drugged up mother (Allison Janney), who walks the town in her pyjamas and steals from shops isn’t a stroll in the park. Aren’t parents supposed to be responsible and watch over their children, or is it the other way around? Just as things are starting to look up for Carson, Dad (Dermot Mulroney), decides now is the time to take an interest in his life, after years of neglecting his son. Then to top it all off, we follow Carson’s heart-clenching relationship with his Alzheimer’s ridden Grandma. The only person that ever supported him in his dreams, his number one fan, can’t even remember who he is thanks to the memory stealing disease.

After hearing that comedic genius, Rebel Wilson (Malerie Baggs), and sweetheart Polly Bergen (Grandma) were cast, I knew straight from the off this film would be the perfect balance of witty, teen comedy and unbearable heartbreak, both bringing tears to my eyes for opposite reasons. They turned what was sure to be ‘just another film’ that explores teen problems into something truly inspirational to anyone who watches it.

This fast-moving film won’t fail to impress with its whimsical one liners. It’s the perfect tribute to all us struggling and stressed college students. For Colfer’s first film, it’s safe to say there’s a future here for him, unless extremely rare natural disasters are anything to go by. Even though there are improvements to be made, I’m sure they’ll be ironed out as he gains experience in this field, so it’s definitely worth keeping your eyes peeled for him in the near future.

Director: Brian Donnelly
Screen writer: Chris Colfer
Running time: 90 minutes
Released: 11/01/13

Top 10 Movies to watch at Halloween

After the sweets, the slutty costumes, excessive drinking, pumpkin flavoured everything, and themed parties, the best part of Halloween is the scary movies! Scary movies keep you up late and give you an excuse to hold someone’s hand, so let Halloween be your excuse to throw a movie party. So here we have some of the best Halloween flicks of all time.

10. The Omen
A remake of the 1976 horror classic The Omen an American official realizes that his young son may literally be the devil incarnate. and as the child’s evil becomes more and more apparent in a world full of hate, the Biblical prophecies slowly begin to fall into place.

9. The Ring
A young journalist must investigate a mysterious videotape which seems to cause the death of anyone within a week of viewing it.

8. Jaws
The story of a Long Island town whose summer tourist business is suddenly threatened by a great-white-shark. This film may be old and the special effects may be less than impressive for the 21st century, but it’s still an excellent and truly terrifying film which will continue to remain a golden oldie for some time to come.

7. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
In the early 1980's, a psychopath named Freddy Krueger murdered several children with a glove fitted with razor blades attached to the fingers. When a foolish decision by a judge sets him free, Krueger is burned alive in the boiler room where he worked by an angry mob of the parents whose children he terrorized & murdered. Years after his death, the children whose parents were responsible for Krueger's death - including Nancy Thompson, daughter of the police officer who arrested Krueger - are experiencing terrifying nightmares about him and begin to die in their sleep. Nancy realises she must do something or die.

6. Coraline
A young girl walks through a secret door and discovers a parallel reality that is eerily similar to the life she already knows, yet deeply unsettling in a number of ways. As her ‘other mother’ encourages her to make her stay permanent, she begins to find out the unsettling secrets of this other world. This adaptation of Neil Gaimon’s best-seller is perfect for those who don’t like scary slasher films as it’s not classified as a ’horror’ but it’s still an excellent film perfect for Halloween.

5. Let the Right One in
Oscar, an overlooked and bullied boy, finds love and revenge through Eli, a beautiful but peculiar girl who turns out to be a vampire. This film is both scary and heart-wrenching as Oscar and Eli’s love is doomed from the start, it will have you in tears.

4. Pan’s Labyrinth
Like Coraline, this film isn’t a horror, but it’s still chilling and very dark. It’s one of the best films I’ve seen and completely appropriate for a night in on Halloween. In the fascist Spain of 1944, the daydreaming young stepdaughter of a sadistic army officer escapes into an eerie but captivating fantasy world.

3. The Shining
Another Golden Oldie, A family heads to an isolated hotel for the winter where an evil and spiritual presence influences the father into violence, while his psychic son sees horrific forebodings from the past and of the future.

2. The Exorcist
When a girl is possessed by a mysterious entity, her mother seeks the help of two priests to save her daughter.

1. The Silence of the Lambs
At number 1 we have an adaptation of the book, ‘The silence of the lambs’.A young FBI cadet must confide in an incarcerated and manipulative killer to receive his help on catching another serial killer who skins his victims.

By Ruby Butler

Bringing it Back: Pretty in Pink

Old School Films You Don't Want To Miss

Review of Pretty in Pink

‘Pretty in Pink’ is this issues Valentines offering and although it is a story of teenage romance, it bypasses the dreamlike, Disney fabrications of modern Hollywood and instead bestows a little bit of golden eighties romance along with one interesting pink dress.

Andie is the leading lady in this film and she is your average outcast; less than popular, looking after her heartbroken dad she works in a record store to help keep herself above water as the family’s finances are struggling.

Helping to keep her spirits up are best friends Iona and Ducky. But Ducky wants to be more than her good time guy as he is totally and madly in love with her and has been since they were kids. But Ducky can’t compare to popular and rich Blaine, who despite Andie’s social status, signals his interest and starts to make a move. Like any girl Andie can hardly believe her luck when he asks her out and to Ducky’s disappointment she’d thrilled.

This is all until Blaine takes her to a party and his friends are less than pleased with his new choice of girl and don’t take warmly to Andie, wounding her pride. Hastily Blaine whisks Andie away to one her favourite places. A live music bar but there Blaine is the one with the frosty reception as Ducky doesn’t take kindly to his presence. Despite all the hardship Andie and Blaine want to make the best of it and so Blaine asks Andie to prom. But Blaine hasn’t got the courage and with the goading of his friend Steff he breaks the date with Andie.

Initially inconsolable, our Andie isn’t discouraged and with her hand crafted, bubble gum pink prom dress she sets out alone to prom head held high. There she meets Ducky and to repair the damage done from the other night.

Seeing Andie pretty in pink causes Blaine to realise how stupid he was so he rushes to apologise but it’s too late. It is then up to Ducky to put his friend first and selflessly he tells Andie to go after Blaine. The car park is the setting to Andie and Blaine’s reunion and they make up passionately settling everything perfectly in place once more.

Cute and quirky this film is the perfect alternative to sickly love stories and also has that nostalgic feel and awesome soundtrack that all eighties films seem to have. All in all it’s a winner for this Valentines.

By Katherine Cudmore

Worst Films of 2011

The Roommate

‘The Roommate’, loosely based on the 1992 film ‘Single White Female’ follows college student Sara as she discovers her new roommate, Rebecca, has an obsession with her. I wasn’t expecting a huge amount of this film but what I found was that the film itself, contained no chills, thrills or excitement of any kind, and the only shred of praise I can give is of Leighton Meester’s (Rebecca) performance.

She really does add a hint of fascination to the entire film. The sad thing is, the film desperately longs to be a successful thriller amongst the rest when in reality, it doesn’t deserve even the slightest bit of our attention. The only time the film picked up was in the last 10 minutes and even then, it wasn’t enough to save it from becoming another film thrown on the pile of boring re-makes we could’ve lived without seeing.

The Tree of Life

Upon first hearing of ‘The Tree of Life’, I had heard mixed reviews of those saying it was particularly awe-inspiring and of those saying it was not worth the watch. My guard was up whilst viewing; I didn’t want to get my hopes up too high.

However, I was pleasantly surprised. The acting finesse of Brad Pitt, Jessica Chastain and Hunter McCracken is shown in every single scene; they are the cream of the crop when it comes to emitting emotion.
Also, you will not get another film that contains so much visual imagery that may appear disjointed but is in fact, the most beautiful piece of artwork you will see in modern day cinema.

For those viewers who are patient enough to sit and relax for a couple of hours and are willing to stick it through till the end, then you won’t be let down I assure you because nothing will compare to the stunning and poignant acting and cinematography that is thrown together in ‘The Tree of Life’.

By Will Jennings

On the Road – Film Preview

The film adaption of Jack Kerouac’s famous American novel is not due to be premiered until the Cannes Film Festival, but it is already ringing with promising contributions for those with a penchant for travel movies.

Its director, Walter Salles, is no stranger to adapting raw literature onto the big screen, having previously directed The Motorcycle diaries – a film made from the early diaries of Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevera. And poignantly, the soundtrack for both films was composed by Argentine Gustavo Santaolalla. Furthermore, the role of Marylou is played by Kristen Stewart; whose pre-Twilight works included a cameo in backpacking film Into the Wild. The film also stars Viggo Mortensen and Kirsten Dunst, while protagonist Sal Paradise is played by English actor Sam Riley.

Some novels just translate naturally and effortlessly onto the big screen, and having recently read Kerouac’s masterpiece of ‘spontaneous prose’ for the first time, it instantly struck me as a potentially great screenplay. And soon, fifty years after the story was first told, we will have the opportunity to judge that for ourselves.
On the Road is the largely autobiographical tale of Sal Paradise – a reflection of Kerouac himself Neal  Cassady. And – and his adventures ‘on the road’ with zestful friend Dean Moriarty – a fictionalised portrayal of   Neal Cassady. And the relationship between those two characters is at the heart of the story, as they hitchhike repeatedly between New York and the Great American West. And their wanderlust is something to which we can all relate.

Jack Kerouac is heralded as the leading figure of the ‘Beat Generation’, inspiring hundreds of kids to hit the road. It is a tale full of sex, drugs and jazz. But the author once described himself as ‘a strange solitary crazy Catholic mystic’. And that is what really lies at the heart of his travels; a spiritual search for man’s own role in the universe.

Kerouac typed On the Road, the story of seven years’ worth of travel, in three weeks on a 120-foot long scroll of paper. And as such, he just wrote whatever formulated in his mind, giving life to long, vivid descriptions of jazz performances, people, and the Mexican heat. And undoubtedly this film will see those descriptions transcend words and adopt a whole new significance.

The original novel, first published in 1957, has influenced and inspired multiple generations of young people, and that is a lot to live up to when it is finally screened. But with Walter Salles behind it, I can see it becoming a fitting tribute to the late author, as well as introducing a whole new generation to the genius of Jack Kerouac.

By Martin Greenacre

Bringing it Back: Empire Records

Old School Films You Don't Want To Miss

Review of Empire Records

If you’re not feeling the cheer this year, or having started watching your favourite Christmas films in October, are sick of them then don’t despair because I am about to offer and alternative movie to fill your winter evenings.

This month’s old school movie is ‘Empire Records’ which was released smack bang in the middle of the nineties and contains some familiar faces. A young Liv Tyler, minus the horse and elf ears, and playing her best friend, Renee Zellweger feature in the film.
But besides a star studded cast ‘Empire Records’ has a lot to offer. The title of the film shares itself with the name of the record store where Tyler and Zellweger work alongside their colleagues and friends Lucas, A.J, Debra and Mark. Each of them has their own troubles which they in turn face and defeat with the help of their friends, their music and especially their boss Joe.

And when Joe has to front his own problems his staff are right their supporting him in the only way they know how: through music.

The soundtrack to this movie is quite simply awesome. As its set in a music store music features heavily throughout the film spotlighting artists like The Cranberries, the Dire Straits, Edwyn Collins and a final number performed and written by Coyote Shivers. Even if these names have flown straight over your head never fear, the songs are catchy, jumpy and for some may be love at first listen.
So if you’re looking for a film that isn’t coated with morals about family love and doesn’t feature scenes of excessive Christmas spirit, then why not broaden your horizons and dip into the 90’s with this gem of a film. I guarantee you’ll want a job at Empire Records when you’re done.

By Katherine Cudmore

Watch This Space! Rising Hollywood Stars

Lily Collins, the daughter of rock legend Phil Collins, is beginning to create a name in her own right.  She has previously had small roles in the hit US drama ‘90210’, and more recently has starred in the Oscar nominated film, ‘The Blind Side’ alongside Sandra Bullock. More recently, she has starred in ‘Priest’ and ‘Abduction’ alongside Taylor Lautner, a thriller about a teenager who finds out his parents are not really his parents after he sees himself as a baby on a missing persons website. Alongside her growing film career, Lily is also a keen follower of fashion. She was chosen in 2007 by Chanel to wear one of their gowns at the Bal des Débutantes (a charity ball), which was featured on ‘The Hills’ and was also chosen by Spain’s Glamour magazine in 2008 as their ‘International Model of the Year’.

Elle Fanning is following in the footsteps of her well established older sister, Dakota (of ‘Twilight’ fame). Elle started acting at the tender age of eighteen  months where she starred alongside Sean Penn in ‘I Am Sam’. More recently she has taken the lead in ‘Phoebe in Wonderland’, ‘Somewhere’ and ‘Super 8’. For her role in ‘Somewhere’, Elle won Film Actress of the Year in the Young Hollywood Award’s. Later this year, Elle will be starring in ‘We Bought A Zoo’ where she plays Scarlett Johansson’s thirteen year old daughter who is working illegally at a zoo. In July 2011, Elle controversially became the new face of Marc Jacobs’ Fall 2011 ad campaign.



Hailee Steinfeld began her acting career at the tender age of eight, initially starring in short films to gain experience. She played the lead role of Talia Alden in the semi-autobiographical short film ‘She’s A Fox’ which went on to win awards at several film festivals from 2009-2011. With this, and appearances in commercials and on television, Steinfeld was chosen out of 15,000 girls for the coveted role of Mattie Ross in the Oscar-nominated ‘True Grit’. For her role, she was announced as a nominee in the Best Supporting Actress category at the 83rd Academy Awards on January 25th 2011. Unfortunately, Steinfeld lost out to ‘The Fighter’ actress Melissa Leo, however, she went on to win the Breakthrough of the Year Award at the 2011 Young Hollywood Awards. Hailee has recently been cast as Juliet Capulet in an upcoming adaption of Shakespeare’s classic love story ‘Romeo & Juliet’, which is to be directed by Carlo Carlei. In May 2011, fashion label Miu Miu announced that it had chosen Steinfeld to be its new face. All of this, and she’s only fourteen years old.

Elizabeth Olsen is most recognisable as the younger sister of Mary Kate and Ashley, but is now beginning an acting career of her own. Elizabeth first appeared in the spotlight aged four, when she acted in her sisters’ first movie, ‘Our First Video’, and then later in ‘The Adventures of Mary-Kate and Ashley’. Elizabeth then stepped out of acting to concentrate on her education, which resulted in her graduating from the Tisch School of Arts and Atlantic Theatre Company. 2011 has been an important year for Elizabeth as she has fulfilled key roles in three movies; ‘Martha Marcy May Marlene’, ‘Silent House’ and most recently ‘Peace, Love & Misunderstanding’ (co-starring Chace Crawford and Jane Fonda).Following the positive reviews she gained from ‘Silent House’, Elizabeth landed a role alongside Hollywood legend Robert De Niro in the upcoming thriller movie ‘Red Lights’, and has several more roles lined up for her over the next year.

by Will Jennings and Elena Thompson

Bringing It Back: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

Old School Films You Don't Want To Miss
Review Of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

In our world of glossy, high definition, 3D, digital films we can get swept up in the excitement of new Hollywood and as a result, become detached from the classic films that helped make the movie business what it is today. 

Now I am no movie connoisseur but I was subjected to many 80’s and old school pictures by my dad and consequently have become a bit of a fan of the lesser known but still timelessly brilliant titles. These films have stood the test of time but for some they remain unknown and I hope to change that by revealing a cinematic gem each edition.

To get the ball rolling I have decided to go against cliché by not raking out an ancient horror movie. In fact I have decided to cover the upbeat story of a teenage wise crack who is just trying to take a day off. Some people may already have an inkling of the film I’m referring to but for those who don’t October’s film is indeed ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’ which was released in 1986 and definitely shows that eighties flare.

The eclectic soundtrack alone, which features epic names such as The Smiths, is enough to woo anyone to jump up and dance or at the very least rent out the movie. But besides the lyrical genius’ which sprinkle the soundtrack ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off has a lot more to offer. The plot to this film is a bit of a given considering the title; there is this kid Ferris Bueller and you guessed it, he wants to take a day off school. Of course however there is much more to it than that. Wonder at Ferris’ elaborate plots to kid his principal, sympathise with his weary sister, support him as he helps his best friend become the person he should be and root for him as he tries to get the girl, all while enjoying the various hijinks along the way.

And on top of this ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’ contains some magnificent one liners which compliment the overall feel good vibe and comedy perfectly. So if you’re looking for laughs this Halloween rather than blood and gore look up ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’ and settle yourself on the couch, cushions firmly left behind you rather than in front of your eyes.

by Katherine Cudmore

Film Review: Fright Night

Cert (UK):  15
Runtime: 106 minutes
Directors: Craig Gillespie

Following the sudden love for vampires over the past few years, Fright Night gives Twilight a run for its money. The remake of Tom Holland’s 1985 film stars Anton Yelchin as Charley Brewster, a teenager who suspects his new neighbour is a vampire. Marti Noxon, the writer of ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’, adds bite to the remake as he relocates the story to Las Vegas.

Charley is a high school kid who soon becomes convinced that his new neighbour Jerry (Colin Farrell) is a bloodsucking demon that has started to prey on the locals, including his ex-best friend Ed (Christopher Mintz-Plasse) and is determined to keep Jerry’s fangs away from his mother and girlfriend. Desperate, Charley turns to local celebrity magician and expert on demons, Peter Vincent, played by David Tennant. The two team up to save Charley’s girl and to vanquish the demons for good.

The film is clever and funny, and although it’s close to Halloween and the film involves vampires sucking out the neighbourhoods souls, it didn’t have me racing for the door in tears of fright. Although other audience members were jumping in their seats, the overall effect of the horror was only caused by the ashes and blood, popping out of the screen in all its 3D glory. The film was funny and a real change from the romance twist now attached to the vampire film industry. Fright Night is definitely one to wait for and watch on DVD.

By Megan North