Filmaholic78 Reviews

Underworld: Awakening (2012)

Meh.....Okay I guess

[7/10 · 23 January 2012]

I'm not sure why this film seems to be getting fantastic reviews. I mean it was a good enough action flick but it didn't blow my mind. In fact it was a case of the same old stuff just done better. Brilliant to watch but not refreshing at the same time. The story was lacking in depth and character development and just felt like a filler for another sequel.

I don't want to be all doom and gloom about it because Kate really did kick some ass and looked good doing it too so as far as action and eye candy goes its great. But any fan of the series knows that the Underworld saga isn't stupid. They always paid attention to script and story and that was lacking here unfortunately.

I'm sure if you go and see it you wont be disappointed but just leave your brains at the door and watch the action commence.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)

Great film. Highly recommend it to everyone

[8/10 · 11 January 2012]

This was either going to be a complete success or a complete let down. Thank god it was a success.

I wouldn't go as far as to say it was better than the first film but by no means was it poor. The first film set a very high standard as far as Sherlock Holmes films goes and this one was almost back at that same level.

The acting, directing, cinematography, style and presentation are of the highest caliber. The story is fun and entertaining but at the same time clever and intriguing. Everything you would want really with the emphasis on ENTERTAINING.

I could easily watch this film again and can't wait to add this one to my DVD collection when it becomes available.

If I had any criticism that I had to mention I would say there is probably too much action to the point where the whole Sherlock punch ups become slightly repetitive. Only a minor thing and I will let you make your own mind up on that one.

If you haven't seen it yet what are you waiting for?????

50/50 (2011)

I didn't want to watch this film. So glad I did

[10/10 · 1 December 2011]

Cancer and Comedy.

Two things that should never be mixed together.

However 50/50 does, and it works. Using the phrase comedy is slightly miss leading to be honest in this case. There are some really nice light comedic references/situations that lighten the mood of the film without detracting from the seriousness of it but in essence it is a drama. A heart felt, well written, well directed and extremely well acted masterpiece.

In a nutshell it is a very believable journey of not only one mans struggle with cancer but also the effects it has on people around him.

Before I went to see the film I was very apprehensive as just the thought of cancer makes my stomach turn and the last thing I wanted to do is watch something depressing and upsetting. Both of these elements rarely make it in to 50/50 and I just sat back and enjoyed it from start to finish.

What a great story and a great film. I highly recommend you go and see this one.

Paranormal Activity 3 (2011)

Meh!!!! I enjoyed the suspense and scares but thats about it.

[6/10 · 28 October 2011]

Firstly I haven't seen the first and second film of the trilogy but that didn't matter due to this being a prequel. I was told by my friend who watched it with me that there are a lot of references to the other two films but it doesn't prevent you from enjoying or understanding what's going on so if your in the same boat as I was don't let that put you off.

I didn't not enjoy PA3 but at the same time I didn't love it either. Hence the title Meh. Below I will highlight what are in my honest opinion the good and bad points.

The good points:- Great use of suspense, camera work, acting was surprisingly good and towards the end of the film a lot of jumps and scares. Also without giving any spoilers away the Bloody Mary scene was intense and entertaining and my highlight of the film.

The bad points:- Very slow, it does get better and of course it couldn't be too fast paced because that would soften the build up of tension but it did start to drag a little bit. The use of amateur camera work is great because it adds to the real feel of the film, however if I heard a noise or went to investigate something I would rather pick up a baseball bat rather than a camera all the time. I just started to feel that the over use of carried camera shots started to take away the believability of the scenes/film.

That's it really, I enjoyed PA3 for what it was but at the same time I can't really rave about it because it was above average but not great. As for all the reviews I have read saying how annoyed they are that all the scenes from the trailer aren't in the film, I say I'm glad they aren't. There's nothing worse than seeing half a film condensed in to trailers so when you watch it your expecting or you know what's going to happen.

Hope this helps anyone thinking about watching the film, just remember it's not bad but it's also not great and try to enjoy it for what it is.

Super 8 (2011)

Loved it!!!!!!!

[11 August 2011]

I have got to say Super 8 was a breath of fresh air. I have read a few of the reviews here on IMDb and have to agree with them that the film does have the old Steven Spielberg, E.T feel and in my books that is a great thing, however it is not any any shape or form the same as E.T, I just wanted to make that clear from the start. The references to the directing style and E.T are more centred around the story telling and feel of Super 8 not the actual physical content.

J.J Abrams gives us a masterclass in writing and directing. He somehow manages to capture your attention and draw you in to the film, the actors, mainly the children, do the film proud and it is fascinating to see them act well at acting bad. (This will make sense once you have watched the film). It has everything you want from action to comedy, drama to romance and it is all seamlessly weaved together.

I absolutely loved Super 8, it's an instant classic and recommend it to anyone.

Go and see it.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011)

Great end to a fantastic story

[8/10 · 16 July 2011]

I haven't read the books yet so perhaps I enjoyed this film more than true Potter Fenatics. All I can say is I'm sure they will have missed loads of the original story out but unless you are aware of whats missing the film as a whole is great. In the defence for the Director and Producers I would imagine there was just far too much to cram in to the film and some of it possibly wouldn't have translated well on to screen so this has to be forgiven. Doesn't it? Any way I have loved all the films from year 1 to year 7 and it was nice to have David Yates back to direct this one. He stuck to his guns and this second instalment carries on with the same feel as the previous few he made. I found the first films all felt slightly different and disjointed, with each director, quite rightly, putting their own spin on them however with David at the helm there is more consistency here.

The acting is surprising good for a change, the special effects are off the hook and the action is captured perfectly. What I will say is, and this is starting to be a common occurrence in my honest opinion, that the 3D doesn't actually add anything to the film. When you consider you pay more for the 3D experience you would expect more. It doesn't ruin the film but just doesn't do, well anything for it.

One last thing I will say is that if you live in Cheltenham or the Cotswolds for that matter I recommend you go and watch Harry Potter in the new screening rooms that Cineworld have opened here. It's a completely new experience for a day out at the cinema, you are greeted when you walk in, served drinks and food in the waiting area, escorted to your seats, which by the way are huge, made from leather and have a table and ice bucket, and then before the film starts have at seat service. This just added to the fun and comfort and I can't stress enough how much it made the overall experience just that bit more special. Here is the link to the Screening rooms website if your interested http://www.thescreeningrooms.co.uk

To sum Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 2 up. A great ending to a Fantstic story and it doesn't disappoint.

Attack the Block (2011)

Fantastic 5* British Film

[8/10 · 15 May 2011]

Firstly you have got understand this film is made in the same genre and style as Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. It's pure British humour and is designed not to take itself too seriously. Having said that I have to admit the start of the film depicts a gritty reality that could almost be mistaken as a scene from a real drama like "Harry Brown". Then afterwards the fun begins. It is pure comical laugh out loud genius. I have read a few bad reviews here on IMDb and I can only assume these reviewers just didn't get it. I'm not going to say they are wrong, they just obviously don't find this type of humour entertaining. The producers and director hit the nail on the head with this one by mixing the grim reality that little chavs are in fact little bas*ar#s, their English is terrible, attitudes stink and have no respect what so ever. Combine that with aliens, hilarious dialogue and a ridiculous situation and you get Attack the Block. Whats so funny about the film is you can actually believe thats how these little mother fluffers act. The direction is fantastic, acting is surprisingly good and what I was relieved at are the special effects weren't as bad as I thought they would be. After I saw a trailer for the film I had my doubts, the aliens looked a bit naff, the "made by the Producers of Shaun of the Dead" and name dropping of Nick Frost made me think they were going to rely on this for success but thankfully they delivered a film that stands on it's own two feet. What I will say though is I don't think anyone outside of the u.k will enjoy it as much, it is very British and they probably wouldn't get a lot of the dialogue/slang and references. To sum this one up I have to say it did everything it set out to do well, I really enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone that wants to watch a non stop fun fest.

Priest (2011)

And the award for the movie with the most clichés goes to....

[4/10 · 8 May 2011]

WARNING.....This film is not worth spending your hard earned cash on. It's not that its a bad film it's just not that great. As my title says it's every cliché in the book rolled in to one. It got to the point where we were laughing out loud at the stupidity and predictiveness of it. It's such a shame because the concept, special effects and action were actually quite good it's just let down by the sheer lackluster script, story and direction. Don't get me started on the so called 3D because it was non existent and if it wasn't a waste of money going to see the film in the first place the extra to see it in 3D adds insult to injury. To sum Priest up in one word.... POOR. To sum Priest up in two words....Very poor.

Thor (2011)

If you like Marvel then you will like this.

[8/10 · 26 April 2011]

Firstly I want to point out that I am giving this film 8 out of 10 on the basis that it is a Marvel super hero action film. To review it any other way would be unfair. It doesn't take itself seriously, sticks to the comic book characters well and also links in well with the other Avenger stories / SHIELD i.e Iron man, Hulk and probably Captain America.

It contains everything needed to make it fun and entertaining with lots of action, great special effects, a few laughs and then topped off with more action.

My only issue was that I went to see it in 3D and felt it really didn't need it. In fact I thought it was more of a distraction than anything else when it was used and that didn't seem to be very often, therefore you watch the majority of the film slightly blurred for only a few minutes of real 3D. If I could rewind time I would probably have preferred just to go and watch the 2D version.

All in all though it was just a good film and if you do go and see it just remember what your going to watch, a film adaptation from a comic book, not a serious drama or some artsy fartsy garbage. Just sheer stupid unrealistic fun.

Scream 4 (2011)

As good as the first film if not better!!!!!

[8/10 · 24 April 2011]

If you are a fan of the Scream series then this is a must see.

If you liked the first film but thought the next two were rubbish then this is the film to watch.

If you haven't seen any of the Scream films....what rock have you been hiding under?...but go and see it anyway.

I loved it. The first film will always be a classic and I felt that the second and third instalments were a bit over the top, they under achieved and a left a sour taste in my mouth.

This instalment saves the franchise hands down. It sticks to its roots planted in the first film and is great to watch from start to finish. I have to say I was a bit apprehensive about going to see Scream 4 as I wasn't sure if they were just milking the brand for more money but they didn't.

The only slight issue I had was Courtney Cox's botox. My god she has had some work done and at one point I wasn't sure if she could smile, frown or do any other facial expressions. Still she reprieved her role as Gail brilliantly.

Go and see this film. It gets two thumbs up from me and it's just great fun to watch, you won't be let down.

Sucker Punch (2011)

Beautifully crafted visual feast with a serious story

[8/10 · 4 April 2011]

Before I watched Sucker Punch I felt this film could either be a load of garbage or a masterpiece. Thank god it wasn't garbage.

The special effects are just phenomenal, the story fantastic, the action is crazy and the girls are hot hot hot. On that note don't for one second think this is just a blokes film, yes it's full of flawlessly gorgeous looking girls and makes great eye candy but it is the story that is the key to its success.

You have got to be open minded to enjoy Sucker Punch as it takes a straight forward story and implements two further versions of itself. Very hard to describe without spoiling the film but it keeps you absolutely mesmarised the entire way from start to finish.

The trailers may have you thinking this is an action film along the lines of dungeons and dragons or final fantasy however it is actually a very dark portrayal of a young girls battle against time and is all centred around abuse, betrayal, deceit, manipulation and just the sheer will to survive.

When I left the cinema after watching Sucker Punch I actually said to my friend that I hadn't made my mind up if I liked it or not. It's hard to explain but I found myself playing the film over and over in my head that night and realised the more I thought about it the more I loved it.

One thing I will say however is you have to see this film on the big screen, I feel that it might not come across as well on DVD as it is just mind blowing. Yes it isn't an action film, it's primarily a drama/thriller however it probably has MORE action in it than any action film out there!!!! My god does it just go all out crazy.

So to sum this film up. 1) Totally hot babes. Check. 2) Great story. Check 3) Fantastic Special Effects. Check. 4) Amazing mind blowing crazy ass action. Check 5) Totally hot babes. Check

Battle Los Angeles (2011)

A fantastic fast paced Sci Fi

[8/10 · 13 March 2011]

Before I review this film I just want to highlight something. I went to see Battle LA with my friend and nine times out of ten we agree if a film is good or bad. This time we agreed to disagree. I imagine this will be the case with a lot of people. My friend felt that Battle LA was mediocre and too far fetched. I however loved it. I mean come on, it's a sci fi based on the world being invaded by Aliens. You can't take something like that too seriously.

Firstly I want to mention the acting, something that is always an after thought in movies of this type. It was top notch from all the cast, even the kids. It was great to see real acting, real feeling and believable responses to situations. e.g someone dies, people get upset they don't carry on like nothing happened.

Secondly the action and special effects. They must have spent a fortune on this film, unlike Skyline (Stay far away from that trash) it is intense action all the way, it just doesn't stop. The director decided to use the shaky camera method in places but he doesn't over do it thank god. What you get is a great mixture of gritty footage along with some fantastic set pieces and a hell of a ride.

Thirdly the story. Again something that tends to be forgotten about. Not this time. The story, concept and script are all top notch. What this does is takes a far fetched sci fi and makes it almost believable. Thats right believable.

To sum it all up I enjoyed Battle LA more than I thought I would. As far as Sci Fi action films go it's one of the best I have ever seen. I was completely blown away by it from start to finish and strongly recommend it to anyone.

I Am Number Four (2011)

I am another Cliché

[6/10 · 6 March 2011]

This is not a bad film. It's just not that great. The story feels a bit weak and there are so many plot holes it takes away part of the enjoyment. I also found myself un interested in the characters, apart from the dog, but who doesn't love a cute dog? It just seemed to be cliché after cliché after cliché. I have to remind myself I didn't go to watch shawshank redemption 2 or a William Shakespeare film adaptation. Instead I watched 90 odd minutes of blah. Good special effects and action sequences plus the added bonus of eye candy were just enough to save it. Just.

If you go to see "I am number four" I suggest you leave your brain at home then sit back and enjoy the pretty lights and moving pictures. Don't expect much and you might actually enjoy it.

Paul (2011)

Goes from a flat pants waste of time to a solid funny comedy

[6/10 · 28 February 2011]

I have very mixed feelings about this film. I love Shuan of the Dead and Hot Fuzz so I was really looking forward to seeing this one.

However I started to feel this sinking feeling as I was watching it. I just couldn't gel with the film and felt it was really flat and to be honest, a bit boring to start with. Yeah it had a few laughs and giggles but it wasn't the standard I was expecting or used to.

Then about 30 minutes in to the film took a turn for the better, thank god. The dialogue became faster and funnier and felt like the film it should have been from the start.

My advice to anyone thinking about seeing Paul is expect much of the same humour you got from the previous two films and if thats your cup of tea then stick with it as it will get better.

If I rated the film in thirds I would say the first third is 3 stars, second third 6 stars and the last third 8 stars.

The Fighter (I) (2010)

10 out of 10. Favourite film so far of 2011

[10/10 · 15 February 2011]

This film is an instant classic. Forget that it's based around boxing, it is not in any way a modern Rocky or stupid unbelievable action film. This is real acting, a real story and a real masterpiece all rolled in to one. I defy anyone to write a bad review or dislike this film. It really is that good. Mark Wahlberg plays his part perfectly, however all credit has to go to Christian Bale. This is method acting at its best. It will be a crime if he doesn't win an award for this performance. He steals every scene he is in and does it so well he really is just unrecognisable as Christian Bale. The story just sucks you in and by the end you feel so fired up you just want to jump out of your seat and join in. Great film, fantastic cast, brilliant directing. Just amazing. Go and watch this one. You will not be disappointed.

True Grit (2010)

Good but not as good as people are saying

[7/10 · 15 February 2011]

I watched this film last night and have to say I really enjoyed it. In fact I can't say anything bad about it. The acting is great, direction fantastic, story is good, scenery and costumes spot on, script well written etc. etc.

Hailee Steinfeld was fantastic, her dialogue and presence in all her scenes just stole the show. For such a young actress she showed so much power, confidence and character it just made every scene she was in entertaining to watch. Jeff & Matt were also fantastic but credit were credits due Haillee was amazing.

Now, back to my title of this review. "Good but not as good as people are saying". I don't know if it's because I watched the Fighter a few days ago and it set a very high bench mark but both myself and my friend that went to see True Grit left feeling nothing. We can't put our fingers on it. As you have just read the film was good in every way but somehow left us feeling, well nothing. Confusing I know, all I can say is go and see it for yourself and see what you think. You wont regret it because in no way shape or form is it a bad film. It does everything well but just didn't have the wow factor either. That feeling you get when a film has made an impact and you wont forget it. In fact that sums it up. A great film you probably wont remember.

The Social Network (2010)

Just a great story of something we now take for granted

[10/10 · 23 November 2010]

I give this film 10 out of 10.

I'm not sure how much is truth and how much is fiction but what I will say is I enjoyed it from start to end.

The filming, script, story and acting are of the best quality.

It's just a complete eye opener as to how facebook was born and the problems and success it created for all those involved.

Whats great is the story is based around something that has become such a household name and that it's something we can relate to without knowing much about where it came from, how and why.

Loved it

Pandorum (2009)

Enjoyable fast paced Sci Fi/Horror/Action film

[8/10 · 9 October 2009]

This film is a strong 8 out of 10 for me.

The special effects are very good.

The directing, editing and shooting are spot on.

The script and acting are a bonus as these two things tend to be an after thought in Hollywood recently but not this time.

Seriously go and watch this film. And make sure you see it on the big screen and not on DVD as the atmosphere it produces will have you on the edge of your seat.

Enjoy.

I did.

Gamer (2009)

Good fun but not great

[5/10 · 21 September 2009]

I went to see The running Man today...... oh no I didn't silly me, I will start again, I went to see Death Race today..... oh my mistake sorry... it's just so confusing. O.K then third time lucky.

I went to see Gamer today..There....sorry about that it's just they are all the same!!!!! Yes this film is fun and full of action however it is also mind numbingly dumb and just another re telling of the stories from the other 2 films above. Yes I enjoyed it as far as an entertaining action film goes. But I'm afraid it wont be one that I remember a few years down the line.

Go see it if you want to kill some time and see lots of guns and explosions. Don't go and see it if you are looking for the superior version of the running man. It isn't anywhere near that standard and I don't think any similar film ever will be.

The Final Destination (2009)

Loving 3D films.......but not this one

[5/10 · 17 September 2009]

3D films are becoming more popular by the minute and I have been converted in to one of those fans. They give depth and excitement that could not b previously tapped in to.

However I am hoping that with such an amazing piece of technology film makers don't try and jump on this wagon as a quick win.

In the case of Final Destination I believe this was the Producers and Directors aim. The film was o.k. Just nothing new if you are a Final Destination fan. Some of the death sequences are planned out well and there are some shock moments. That's th only reason I will give this film 5 out of ten because it wasn't all that bad.

What I will say though is that after all the hype about it being released in 3D that was the biggest let down. I have seen around 5 new 3D movies and this one has the crown for being the worst. It just feels wrong. The parts in 3D look like very cheap and are made up of bad special effects thus reducing the enjoyment.

So in a nutshell it's a half decent film but you will probably forget about it very quickly and wonder what all the hype was about.

Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Not as good as I had hoped

[5/10 · 13 September 2009]

I will keep this short.

Bit of a let down, Had some good moments. The first 10 minutes of the film are just gripping. Then fell flat. Some action, some script, o.k acting but I left just feeling that it should or could have been better.

Yes I laughed and cringed and the cinematography is done well but it wasn't enough to save this film. I almost wish he stayed with the original story instead of just taking the title and inventing a completely different story all together.

Don't get me wrong I am a massive Tarantino fan. His work is truly amazing but this just didn't seem to have that flare he normally possesses.

Sorority Row (2009)

Scream meets I know what you did last summer meets Urban Legends

[7/10 · 10 September 2009]

This film is nothing original.

But then what teenage slasher film is. And for that reason only I give this film 7 out of 10. I feel giving a movie of this style a poor review is cutting it short for the credit it should get. It is well shot, the death sequences are well put together and inventive, there are the comical moments, characters you hate and can't wait to meet there makers and the who is the murderer guessing game.

Don't get me wrong the film is not special, it's no Oscar nominee and has so many plot holes it is swiss cheese but what you do get is a fun slasher flick that won't let you down as long as you don't expect too much from it.

District 9 (2009)

It's a grower!!!

[9/10 · 5 September 2009]

I went to see this film not believing the hype as I wasn't all that impressed with the trailers that had been released and the fact that all Peter Jackson really had to do with the film is provide second hand special effects from his dropped "Halo" from game to screen project.

Perhaps 20 minutes had passed and I was starting to think that my initial thoughts were correct and found myself slightly disappointed. Then before I realised it I was hooked. The story is intriguing and all be it the special effects are a bit un finished looking the clever directing and filming cover this up very well.

I have to say I did enjoy District 9. Perhaps it's not as good as the hype and lets face it there is a lot of it but it is a lot better than most of the films coming out of Hollywood recently.

Orphan (2009)

Great Horror/Thriller

[9/10 · 10 August 2009]

Well what can I say that the title doesn't already sum up?

For all Horror/Thriller fans I can safely say you will enjoy this film. I went to see the Orphan without knowing much about it except that "There is something wrong with Esther". I wasn't sure if it was going to be supernatural, slasher, horror etc. I still don't really know what to label it as but I tell you what I loved it and I was literally on the edge of my seat for most of the film.

Two thumbs up for this one. It is well shot. Good acting by most of the cast and plenty of twists and turns that will keep you guessing to the end.

There's something wrong with Esther is a complete under statement. I don't want to spoil any of the story so all I can say is watch it. You will not be disappointed

G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (2009)

Good for what it is

[7/10 · 6 August 2009]

I watched this film last night and luckily I had no high expectations. As a fan of the G.I Joe toys when I was a kid (back then they where called Action Force) I had a good idea of the characters and story before hand. I am glad to say this film stayed true to most of the original concepts with a few tweaks for the better here and there.

Go see this film if you want to see a fun action film full of special effects and doesn't take itself too seriously.

Don't go and see this film if you are an uptight, unhappy film critic that spends too much time highlighting plot holes and acting because that's not what this film is about. It's more of a roller-coaster ride. Fast, furious and just fun.