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

Friday, July 16, 2010

Wait For Me

Wait For Me (3 Minute Documentary) from Red Light Films on Vimeo.

Spare three minutes of your life to watch this short documentary about the power of a mother's love. I simply can't describe how much this little film touched my heart. Wait For Me is very powerful and deeply honest.

Director Ross Kauffman released this statement his experience making this film:
Peg’s combination of beauty, sadness and hope immediately drew me back in. We sat down by the pool and talked for hours on end about John, her family, and her dream to one day see her missing son again.
Kauffman also revealed that this short film is in production to become a feature-length documentary. I will reveal any news as it comes to hand. Enjoy this inspiring story.

Friday, July 9, 2010

In The Loop

IN THE LOOP - UK trailer from PPC Film on Vimeo.

This review is "difficult, difficult, lemon, difficult", because In The Loop simply isn't going to please everyone, but personally, I really enjoyed it and laughed out loud for the best part of the hour and a half. If you are a fan of quick, witty British humour, then this film will not disappoint. With rave reviews in England, In The Loop is fast-paced, political comedy with an abundance of smart and cheeky dialogue which you will find yourself giggling about well after the closing credits.

The plot is about a government Minister who is a nervous public speaker. Already a terrible trait which welcomes one disastrous public event after the other. Enter the team of media monitors who are trying to save his reputation, or, at least save themselves and leave him to be eaten by the Americans. In The Loop is a political satire, poking its tongue out at British and American politicians alike.

But be warned: it is heavy with dialogue with little extravaganza. So if you prefer Hollywood blockbusters with a bit of glamour and action, then this film isn't for you. But if you're a fan of witty dialogue, clever characters and British humour, then I highly recommend In The Loop.

Saturday, July 3, 2010

(500) Days of Summer

500 Days of Summer International Trailer from Rosie de Belgeonne on Vimeo.

My favourite film of the year! This romantic comedy has it all without any Hollywood cliches to be found, perfectly defying all genre conventions yet still captivating. This is not a love story, but a story of modern romance: the courtship of Gen Y's. Words like 'commitment', 'love', 'divorce' are feared by Gen Y and this romantic confusion is explored beautifully in this sweet, quirky film.

My hat goes off to Joseph Gordon Levitt for his heart-warming performance. Hasn't he grown up since 3rd Rock From The Sun? Zooey Deschanel is equally adorable and delivers a lovely performance, with style.

Watch this film for the soundtrack alone. It perfectly compliments the narrative and pace, whilst keeping this non-love story upbeat and fun. With its un-conventional ending, the soundtrack works brilliantly to transform it into a happy one.

The directors style is fresh and absorbing, with an array of visual delicacies but I won't spoil them here. I loved this film so much and think all other Gen Y's will adore it as well. See it for yourself!

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Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Write The Future

Nike Write The Future from Wieden + Kennedy London on Vimeo.

Okay, so you've probably already seen this incredible World Cup TV spot for Nike. If you haven't, where have you been hiding? Produced by the award-winning advertising agency in London, Wieden + Kennedy, this commercial captures the spirit of this international event, the World Cup. The world will stand still: all eyes will be on our TVs, Twitter, blogs, live feeds, so we don't miss a single moment of the excitement.

If you don't have World Cup fever yet... then watch this!

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Monday, May 31, 2010

Mementos

MOMENTOS from Nuno Rocha on Vimeo.

Wow! Only one word can describe this short film: Powerful. A beautiful story about a lost father, a lost soul, and the kindness in people's hearts. Nuno Rocha has created a touching film using a wonderful colour palette that brings to life this man's world; cold, bleak and alone. Incredibly well filmed with a very real performance from leading actor, Rui Penna.

This short was produced for LG Portugal to symbolise, in a unique way, their brand motto: Life's good. A six minute film you cannot miss.

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Flora



A much more unique approach to a perfume TVC, this commercial was a finalist at the 2009 Cannes Lion advertising awards. I love it and so wanted to share it!

Don't forget you can leave your comments :o)

Saturday, May 15, 2010

The Young Victoria



I do love biopics and this film was no exception. The element of truth (albeit it sometimes a loose tracing of truth) fascinates me and I find it easier to connect with these films, remembering that these people were real and ordinary once upon a time.

The Young Victoria was a fascinating film, exploring the life and early years of Queen Victoria who reigned as Queen of England from 1837 til 1901. Victoria was crowned as Queen at the very young age of 18. This film establishes her transition from childhood into life as Queen: a lonely child eager to fulfill her destiny so that she can make a difference in her life and the lives of others. Secluded from the world during her childhood she soon finds a friend and soulmate in Albert. This film is their love story.

Emily Blunt was regal in her performance as Victoria; confident, determined and stubborn. However, her youth was not convincing. Perhaps though I'm wrong and this portrayal - void of childhood mischievousness - is an accurate representation of the young woman who grew up in seclusion. Emily Blunt is however wonderful and engaging in her role as Victoria. Yet Rupert Friend steals the show as Albert. And so he should; a powerful force in this film and a powerful force in Victoria's life.

Without a doubt the design of the film is superb and without fault. Costumes and locations are gorgeous and set the scene perfectly, transporting you back in time into a royal world.

If you are intrigued in English history then you are sure to love this film. However I'm not sure it will have a significant response from those who already know the story of Victoria and Albert; it's lacking deep exploration of the characters and insight into the wonderful Queen she became and her relevance. At it's core its a simple love story with beautiful design and strong performances.