Thoughts and comments on films, cinema, commercials, music clips, viral videos and more...

Monday, August 23, 2010

The Man Who Walked Around The World



Well this TV spot is the best ad I've seen in a very very long time. I love it and just wanted to include it here in my blog so more people can appreciate it.

When finishing my film degree, my lecturer asked me what I was going to do in the 'real' world, once all the fun of studying was over. He wanted me to make up my mind about what my specialty would be. I think he actually said, "Jess, you can either be a jack of all trades and a master of none OR you can specialise." All I honestly wanted to do was make a beer commercial. Yep. I love beer commercials. I love their big budgets, high production values, they always have a bit of comedy, sometimes they're innovative and they just look like great fun to make.

Now that I'm a bit older and hopefully a tiny bit wiser, I have decided I would like to branch out and also make a Johnnie Walker ad. In fact, I wish I made this one.

I also wish I made "Inception", but my thoughts on that piece of brilliance is to come.

So, basically, this is just a well made TV spot, that makes me wish I liked whiskey. Enjoy the extraordinary, long, single shot.


Friday, August 20, 2010

Remember Me



This film didn't stay at the box office very long. And to be honest that's probably because the trailer doesn't do it justice.

I think people who do not particularly enjoy the Twilight films avoided this film just because it stars Robert Pattinson and the trailer presented it as your ordinary cliche romantic drama without any depth of character.

But those few who did see it (because you're Twilight fans admit it) would have been pleasantly surprised. This film has a wonderfully unique ending that is totally unexpected and holds plenty of emotional weight.

For the vast majority of the film though, I couldn't help but think I've seen this story a hundred times before and didn't realise the craft of the film until it was revealed in the final scene. So be patient when you watch it. It's worth it.

I really don't want to spoil the film. If you haven't noticed already, I only seem to write about the films I like. So the very fact that I'm writing this means I want you to see it. It's a powerful and emotional ending that stays with you and reminds you that life is a blessing and to make the most of every moment and every opportunity.

Well performed by the notable cast and beautifully made by Director, Allen Coulter who has bought to life some of the best episodes of Sex and the City, Law and Order and Six Feet Under.

Put it on your must-see list.

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Thursday, August 19, 2010

Creation



This film will warm your heart.

Charles Darwin is famous for his work "On The Origin of Species". I'm sure you've heard of this little book. And I'm sure you're familiar with the photo of him as an elderley bearded man. So it's understandable if you were to expect this film to provide you with little visual spectacular and little captivating drama.

But this film is not so much about his studies, but is instead about a small period in his life as a young father and how his life influenced the writing and publishing of his book. At this time in his life, Charles is struggling to find balance in his life and in his work, fearful of what is right and what is wrong, haunted by the sorrowful death of their eldest daughter.

Paul Bettany is mesmerising as Charles Darwin, with his gorgeous smile. And real wife, Jennifer Connolley plays on-screen wife, Emma Darwin. Together they are superb. I can't fault either of them. Their illustrious careers are indicative of the wonderful performances they give again in this film.

I love this film because it's beautiful. The cinematography is beautiful, capturing those unique moments in nature, like when you see the dust floating in the sunlight and it feels as if time stands still. The story is beautiful; it's emotional, raw, uplifting and ultimately its inspiring.

One of my favourites this year. An unexpected delight.