lewismillican Reviews

Exam (2009)

Exam is as ambitious as it is surprising

[7/10 · 26 January 2021]

A mysterious and somewhat philosophical production surrounding elements such as greed, guilt, power and intrigue. Exam is as ambitious as it is surprising but is sitting yet another exam worth an hour and a half of your life when you thought they were all over?

An Exam?

Nine applicants enter an examination room to complete a test for a seemingly incredible job. If this is no aptitude, cognitive or numerical test then what is it? Each applicant is provided with only a piece of paper with their candidate number on. They then have to hear the invigilators rules and get to work on trying to find an answer, solution or any sort of deductive reasoning to the exam.

Shot in a nondescript, fairly sleek yet impersonal examination room, it is actually used as an allegorical platform on which the director builds the plot in search for answers. The first act is fairly rudimentary in its approach, we learn and get to grips with who the applicants are at a superficial level and their influences. As options are narrowed the candidates' true motives come into play and as individuals quickly degenerate into delirium the room starts to become more uncomfortable.

The Direction and Ensemble

With a fairly unknown cast, the director pushes each and every actor to their limits on a physical and emotional level, and in doing so he unearths some great performances. Most notably from the sexist, misogynistic narcissist 'White' played by Luke Mably. Alongside such surprising performances is the incredible level of anticipation and excitement that is almost visible in such a small space. The utilisation of this small space only heightens the anxious atmosphere within the room making it into what can only be described as a hotbed of anticipation. There is never a dull moment as first-time full feature director Stuart Hazeldine holds his own in both the pacing and tone of this film. With just the right dosage of twists and turns, Exam never wanders into the realm of 'suspension of disbelief', everything always stacks up and walks the line perfectly.



The One Set

As these reviews have known to discover, in order to have a truly unique and successful film set entirely on one set it comes down to two main factors: concept and performance. Although the concept is fabulous and other elements are so clearly introduced which make it intriguing enough, Exam still can't push itself into the upper echelon of one set films. It is most certainly watchable enough and the various elements discussed make it a worthy entry to the list but it cannot quite push into the top.

Joker (I) (2019)

The darkest yet most important pieces of cinema in recent years

[10/10 · 8 December 2019]

Joaquin Phoenix's Joker is unquestionably one of the darkest yet incredibly powerful and important pieces of cinema in recent years. Reactions have ranged from wholly irresponsible, to mean spirited. However, one which is not particularly explored is its seeming importance in an age of which Gotham's societal issues seem much like any other western city. To say that Joker is a microcosm of today's society would not be much of a stretch - in fact it would be pretty accurate.

Gotham is in-turmoil, as a consequence of strikes its streets are littered with rubbish, the rich are getting richer, budgets are getting cut and seemingly the powers to be have no interest or do not deem mental health to be of importance; sound familiar? Within this toxic, cruel and bitter city Arthur Fleck (Joker, Joaquin Phoenix) a troubled and struggling comic suffering from severe mental disorders has to go about his daily life and make sense of his own reality. After finding out his mental health treatments will be cut and the state will no longer provide funds for his medication he is left to fend for himself.

To say that the comic to movie trick has run its creative course would be an understatement. In-fact, to say that Marvel and DC have squeezed every last penny out of each generic, painstaking superhero franchise would be a lie - because there is undoubtedly another one coming out next week (even if you are reading this in 2035). Having said that what director Todd Phillips alongside writer Scott Silver have managed to accomplish is to reinvent (yet again) what a comic book character can embody and stand for. Director of the Hangover movies and Due Date (although good comedic movies in their own right) Phillips' rebirth is perhaps the biggest surprise to 2019. Each and every element of Joker is perfectly on point, and Phillips' envision of what a Joker movie should entail is clearly brought to life. Phillips' depiction of the Joker's world is awesomely dark and that darkness transpires through its spectral score, glum environment and intense visual acting.

Joaquin's Joker is truly his own, in which the brilliant script and plot gives him the freedom to do so. His desperate, insidious undertones are apparent throughout, of which occasionally becomes satisfyingly uncomfortable. From his uncontrollable laughing fits to his existential dance routines this is one obscenely creepy guy. Compassion or sympathy are not words that spring to mind when describing the Joker; rather pity. Pity for his intolerably unfortunate set of circumstances in that he is left to his own devices to tackle his awful existence without the support or help from anyone.

Joaquin Phoenix's Joker is eerily beautiful in all the ways it should be, bordering on uncomfortable at times this film rides the cusp perfectly. Always leaving you second guessing, each scene feels as though it is improvised (in a good way) and it is truly impossible to predict which way each set piece will go. Each scene contributes seamlessly to the overall narrative that Phillips is trying to convey, it's with-strained and outright outlandish when required. It seems that the Joker has raised a few heads and its controversial undertones might just mean it misses out on best picture. However, for its sheer audacity it should certainly be in contention.

Between Two Ferns: The Movie (2019)

If you get Zach you'll get this!

[7/10 · 1 October 2019]

Between two ferns was a throwaway sketch show in which small time interviewer Zach Galifanakis conducted a series of obscenely insulating interviews with Hollywood stars. It was never a show in particular that was destined for a feature length movie. Not because it couldn't necessarily be executed, rather because there was no glaringly obvious potential plot line. However, Zach (writer and lead) and Scott Aukerman (Writer and Director) managed to muddle together a seemingly decent plot. Although slightly baggy at times, at the core it still holds its own - as Zach and his crew shine through.

Zach's pipeline dream of becoming a mainstream late night television host is the driving force behind this movie. Due to Zach's internet success producer Will Ferrell gifts Zach his own late night tv show in return for 10 more interviews in current format. The only caveat is that they have to be conducted within two weeks, leaving Zach and (predominantly) his crew to go about sourcing and interviewing within this ludicrous time frame.

Needless to say Zach's truly bizarre character creation is at the heart of this movie; and he is at his very best. Literally anything can come from this mans mouth, like verbal diarrhoea, Zach cannot control himself. From his obscenely out of place food and beverage orders, to his senseless lack of common sense he is utterly hilarious. It would always have been difficult to tap into comical themes other than the interviews themselves within this movie - and at times it was indeed baggy. However, the saving grace besides the already existing Zach Galifanakis are the support cast who needs just as much credit, with their stoney looks and physical acting without their stellar performances - the jokes would have stood up.

Running at only around one hour and twenty minuets, it's not exactly a Greek odyssey - but it doesn't intend to be. It is still a laugh fest, with its physical humoured quips. So if you are in the mood for a late night comedy trip - Zach Can provide. A prerequisite to your enjoyment is that you have to like or at least be onboard with Zach's character, If you buy into his awkward, desperate or dare say slightly autistic persona, it's a must see on every level.

CHIPS (2017)

Desperately unnecessary and painfully unfunny

[2/10 · 28 August 2019]

'The Californian Highway Patrol does not endorse this film. At all.' is CHIPs' opening gambit, and quite ironically almost nobody else does. To call this an incredibly disposable comedy would be a bit of an understatement. Perhaps suited to a trashy weekend movie night with a few friends, and then, and only then would it classify as a 'comedy'. Because actually, the word 'comedy' should be used very loosely indeed with CHIPS.

Jon, a highway patrol officer (played by Dax sheperd) is teamed up with Ponch an FBI agent (played by Michael Peña) to investigate a heist that may or may not have crooked cops conspiring. Based on the late 70's/ early 80s TV show CHIPs, the recent reincarnation seems promising enough right? Well, comedies don't always necessarily have multifaceted plot lines, and CHIPs is no acceptation to the rule. It does however seem to be devoid of real purpose going through the motions of a storyline devoid of purpose or inspiration.

There are an abundance of problems throughout the movie, but straight off the bat the worst of which are the characters themselves. Besides supporting lead Jon (whom was actually rather funny at times) the entire movie was lacking in its use of supporting characters, and completely misses the value of a subtle cameo that could bring a comical edge. Supporting lead Ponch was truly uninspiring and completely lacks the art of comic timing and delivery. This has to be expanded upon because Michael Peña is undoubtedly a fine actor, but a comic actor; questionable. Michael either has a knack of selecting shoddy projects ('War On Everyone' springs to mind), or is simply not made for comedy, most likely the later is the answer. Of course comedy is completely subjective, therefore that has to be taken into account. However, what is not in dispute is the writing throughout the movie, and a lot of the jokes, setups and punch lines were lazy, generic and tiresome.

Besides that, it does have to be mentioned that the car and motorcycle chase scenes were sublime. Not only are the stunts jaw-droppingly good, but each and every chase sequence is riveting and wholly enjoyable. Alongside that the cinematography displaying California's sweeping vistas during these action sequences also bumps this movie up a few notches. Unfortunately this does not detract from the lack of substance the characters possess, nor the writing throughout the movie, as the chase sequences are only around 20% of the content. In fact if CHIPs was just a one and a half hour chase compilation it would have been entirely more watchable.

CHIPs seems completely unnecessary in every way. It provides very few laughs for a 'comedy', and therefore meanders off into the realms of a very very poor action movie. For comedy to really flourish in a movie there needs to be a level of onscreen chemistry between the central characters, and there is absolutely non whatsoever. The scripting is woefully bad, and on occasion bordering on cringe. Unless you are rather intoxicated on a Friday evening with a group of friends and the night is sinking faster than the titanic, please please please don't watch this.

Sand Castle (2017)

A refreshing perspective to the Iraq conflict

[7/10 · 28 August 2019]

Unlike a large proportion of war films Sand Castle does not follow the generic narrative of a mission of immense proportions that could change the course of 'the war'. Instead we follow a small unit which has been tasked with overseeing the restoration of a water system in a small town in Iraq. Not only is this incredibly refreshing, but it is done with taste, grit and class.

What often goes unnoticed in the perceptions or over-romanticised depictions of war are the smaller operations. Largely because they are harder to depict whilst still holding the same level of gravity, so developing characters as well as a story line seems to be somewhat tricky. However, writer Chris Roessner seems to have well and truly bucked that trend, with a seemingly routine operation he is able to balance action with character development. Lead Pvt Ocre played by Nicholas Hoult is seen to be the main arc of the movie, as when we first meet him he is seen smashing a Hummer door on his hand in a bid to get withdrawn from the war. From there (as he does indeed get deployed to said operation in Iraq) we see him begrudgingly get to grips with reality and relationships start to flourish with his fellow comrades, most notably with Sgt. Harper played by Logan Marshall-Green his first superior. Who does an excellent job of adding an ounce of humility and sincerity to the role of a sergeant, which rejuvenates the old 'cigar in the mouth', crude sergeant we see oh so often. Not only Harper but the entire squad's performance is great, there are no overbearing characters, instead you feel a certain level of compassion for each individual and the situation they are in.

The locations are outstanding. The cinematography, direction and editing are superb in depicting the harsh realities of the Iraq war. The locations were evidently carefully selected and the swooping landscapes only add to that element of vulnerability this squad faces. It is arguably one of the best recent representations of the war, not only with the incredible visuals but of the natural relationships that flourish between soldiers and locals. The edginess of the squads day to day rituals are translated brilliantly to the screen, you genuinely start to feel sceptical about who to trust in a land riddled with extremism.

Sand Castle genuinely tries to be something different which is admirable. War is often a touchy subject to translate to cinema, especially a war as recent as the Iraq war which is still so fresh in everyones mind even for those who were not serving. It is fascinating to see these relationships in war flourish through such bizarre circumstances, not only between the soldiers but also with the Iraqi locals. A must see for those struggling to visualise the horrors of the Iraq war, as well as the day to day rituals of the teams that were deployed there.

Yesterday (III) (2019)

daring and audacious yet tasteful and inventive

[8/10 · 28 August 2019]

For the Beatles aficionados out there the Beatles' back catalogue is like the stone tablets; sacrosanct. And so whoever dares to touch, feel or alter such a catalogue needs to tread very, very lightly. Each note, lyric, instrument and recording are the soundtracks to lives, and hold such gravitas in peoples hearts. Therefore, whoever would be so brave as to tackle the mammoth task of making a full feature length movie about there never being a 'Beatles' had to either be certifiably insane, or a Beatles junkie who could do the story justice.

A struggling singer songwriter Jack Malik (Himesh Patel's big screen debut) is on the verge of an early musical retirement, much to the dismay of childhood friend a manager Ellie (Lily James). A worldwide blackout suddenly occurs and in those 12 seconds Jack is hit by a bus, leaving him with the ability to be the only human who remembers The Beatles (amongst other things) - Just roll with it. Once Jack discovers this phenomena (during a 'singalong' to yesterday which nobody knew) the journey begins wherein he tries to recreate the Beatles' back catalogue. This is of course a painstaking process, and 'tries' is the perfect word to describe the ordeal. He is then faced with guilt and stardom as the lyrics and melodies start to flow, and 'Beatlemania' sweeps the world.

This monumental task was left to none other than Mr Richard Curtis to develop the plot, whom is no stranger to either comedy or indeed musicals (most notably Mama Mia and Pirate Radio). Screenwriters don't get mentioned enough in big productions as the director usually takes centre stage and reaps the rewards. However, Yesterday needs to be an exception because it is one thing to have a concept, but it is another to then make it tangible so that it doesn't become a gimmick or loose its charm too quickly. To say that this movie is predictable is utterly ridiculous, there is a genuine level of surprise in each and every scene - which is just fabulous.

Yesterday is indisputably hilarious. Himesh does a brilliant job of allowing himself to get swept up in subtle disbelief of the whole ordeal which is hilarious in itself. Alongside that the actual recreation of the songs themselves still pay homage to the originals; which was evidently important to everyone involved in the movie. There are of course some scenes which fall slightly flat, however this is simply a matter of taste - may that be comedic or scripting. Having said that, for a Beatle fan it is brilliant to experience people experiencing these magnificent songs for the first time in the movie. Director Danny Boyle has done a great job in capturing the genuine level of excitement, admiration and glee on peoples faces upon hearing these songs, and it's tangible!

This is without a doubt a polished film, which as mentioned can work to its disadvantage in certain scenes. Perhaps that is exactly what Richard and Boyle were going for, in creating a translatable modern depiction of The Beatles and their songs. It certainly isn't offensive, just a good crowdpleaser which gives audiences the space to react in anyway they see fit. You can laugh, cry or just sit and take it in - it's up to you. Beatles fans should not be weary of Yesterday instead should appreciate the level of integrity this movie has through its cast, direction and scripting.

Searching (III) (2018)

Unique and gripping

[8/10 · 19 June 2019]

With gusto and confidence 'Searching' tries and succeeds to break the boundaries or parameters of how a movie should be filmed and expressed. Stellar acting, coupled with an engaging form of cinema makes it an absolutely riveting pleasure to experience. With a method of cinematography and filmmaking that is particularly underused, 'Searching' makes it its own mission to develop a story that can be told in its entirety via a computer screen (or webcam) - and does so with resounding success.

The computer is the core of this movie, and it is the content that the Kim family upload onto their computer that gives this movie legs. Right from the birth of their daughter: Margot, parents David and Pamela record and photograph everything for it then to be uploaded onto their computer. This is how the tone is set, the emotional attachment surrounding the family's special times that have been recorded creates a great narrative. Similar to 'Up' in that it manages to capture many years of life into a 10 minuet emotional rollercoaster of succinct, beautiful storytelling. Unlike what many may have expected the 'gimmick' of expressing through a computer screen and a curser really doesn't wear off at all. In fact it only gets more compelling when the inevitable happens in Margot's disappearance, the pun of 'Searching' really comes into play. Using social media and apple software as the main tool to do so, the familiarity of the process of 'searching' comes to the forefront - although with greater consequences.

First time feature director Aneesh Chaganty does an incredible job in capturing the level of desperation father, David is going through, in the hunt for his daughter. Through discourse and his obsessive natural instincts as a loving father it made for an incredibly intense journey. The subtle links and clues that are spotted through photo's, texts and the dark web add to the aura , level of engagement and believability. What's more is the fact that this ambitious plot of twists and turns would have been a perfectly adequate thriller on its own without the 'computer' element. however, it's precisely the fact that Aneesh decided to film the movie in this way which makes it stand tall above other 'missing people thrillers'.

No doubt Searching is bold, which is always commendable in any movie, but the fact that it pays off is extra special. The obsessive nature of David's online search for his daughter awakens the mind to the sheer power of the internet and computer software as a tool for both good and indeed evil. Searching is packed with quality performances, moving scenes, and awe-inspiring plot developments that will leave any thriller aficionado more than pleased with their choice of movie.

The Wrestler (2008)

Masterpiece And A Masterclass from Mickey

[9/10 · 11 October 2017]

Ever since being introduced to wrestling through the WWE by my two older brothers at a very young age, I have been a huge fan of wrestling. Admittedly, in recent years my obsession with the 'sport' has dwindled due to the realisation of its legitimacy as to be even named a 'sport'. However my admiration for those that participate in the sport has never gone away, rather it has only grown stronger. Being a professional wrestler is not only a job, but is an obsession, a way of life and that is expressed beautifully in this movie, The Wrestler.

Plot and Opinions

Could the casting of Mickey Rourke in leading role Randy 'The Ram' Robinson be any better? An actor of whom his own glory days seem a lifetime away depicts a washed up wrestler way past his own sell by date, and one who doesn't seem to want to go anywhere anytime soon. Working what can only be described as local gigs, Randy is still the-wrestler-movie-picture-10pushing himself to the limits, performing to small crowds against amateur 'opponents'. After a major turn in Randy's health he is forced to contemplate life, most noticeably through his relationship with his distant daughter. From there Randy's realisation of not being able to compete is truly heartbreaking and seeing him battle his demons is truly moving.

The wrestler is interesting in how it doesn't follow the generic sports drama story line of being the best and beating everyone. It's far deeper than that, it explores Randy's struggle, obsession, and sense of loneliness just to stay in the game. Anything outside the world of wrestling is difficult for Randy, he evidently feels safe, secure and fits in that environment. From that it is great how the Director has managed to depict the lengths Randy will go to stay in that environment, spending thousands of dollars on various performance enhancing drugs, the complete lack of friends or family, all sacrifices purely to compete. It's almost as if Wrestling is his coping mechanism, his bubble in which he can truly switch off and not have to worry. Everyone has their bubble, may that be gaming, music, chatting with their friends etc, however wrestling hasn't just becoming a coping mechanism for randy rather his entire life.

Now we all know the job of a wrestler is to perform but it's brilliant how the directors has depicted the juxtaposition between reality and performance. Represented beautifully in not only Randy himself but through Cassidy (Marisa Tomei) a 'friend' of Randy's, being stripper at a local strip joint. Upon asking her out on a date, she changes unrecognisably so, not only through her obvious change in appearance but through her innocent, streetwise, gentile speech, a performance I can only but truly commend Marisa for.

Notable Performance

Mickey Rourke (The Ram) – From a very small leading cast it is difficult to pick the most notable performance, even though this may be an obvious choice it is truly deserved. You can only truly commend the level as to which Mickey has immersed himself in this role. He dives head first (literally in some cases) into every scene, he never goes over the top, never over exaggerates, rather he gives a very real performance, that only adds to the sincerity of the whole film.

Final Thoughts

It is often difficult not to think of clichés and fictitiousness with regards to wrestling. This film goes way beyond the surface of the glittering, over dramatised main event fights and comical dialogue. The Wrestler peels back the layers, exploring the ugly side, the real life of amateur wrestling and how ones fall from stardom can truly effect someone whom is truly obsessed with their profession. The Film is paced extremely well and every scene and sub plot adds meaning to the overall feel of the plot. Even if you are ambiguous or have a sincere dislike for Wrestling, it is still a great watch and relatable to those who simply can not let something go. 9/10

Shame (2011)

As Brilliant As It Is Necessary In The 21st Century

[9/10 · 11 October 2017]

Shame rather bravely tackles arguably the least talked about addiction in our 24 hour media world; sex addiction. This serious affliction is often glossed over in movies in place of seemingly more 'glamorous' addictions in drugs and alcohol. Perhaps this is due to the difficulty of writing a script and creating a focal character that is done tastefully. Opposed to making a movie that is basically an upmarket porno with a script that can't convey any severity or meaning. Shame brings some class to the table, facing up to the challenge through bringing a sense of realism and grit.

General Thoughts

I'll start with the script… it is brilliant, it is natural, it is genuine and the conversations in each and every scene seem fluid and real. For any screen writers out there this is how you write a script, and believe it or not it is just how people talk in real life as well! It was of course truly brought to life by not only lead character Brandon (Michael Fassbender) but the support cast. The on screen chemistry the manifested between him and his Sister (Carey Mulligan) was intense and that relationship actually proved to be such a perfect microcosm of Brandon's state of mind.

Coupled with that, the direction by Steve McQueen is fabulous, not only the gloomy cinematography but the individual scene setups are brilliant. They are deeply atmospheric, Brandon's apartment is a very interesting use of space, and for me you feel 'cornered' along with him in his many arguments with his Sister. It is clinical, regimented and has very little soul which you can not help think will only curve his ability to develop and live in comfort.

We are nearly on a home run when it comes to a checklist of what makes a brilliant movie but next is the score. It is dark, it is atmospheric and the diegetic score coming from brandon's personal music choices perfectly epitomises the mood of each and every scene. The dire and desperate music Brandon seems to choose is no coincidence, and only seems to add to the pain he is going though.

We are indeed on a home run now surely? costumes; the clothing Brandon chooses perfectly reflects the state of his life and his addiction. Dark, dull, bland and lifeless, the costume designers have done a great job here. Clothing is well known to be an expression of someones personality. It is very easy to see if someone feels at ease and is comfortable in their own body, by what they wear. Therefore this is a element of the movie I simply had to bring up.

Stand out performances

Brandon (Michael Fassbender)

Brandon is the focal point of this movie and he is an incredibly complex human. In that amounts other things it is evident he is not able to have a meaning relationship, he doesn't allow himself to open up and be himself. There are flashes throughout the movie in which he allows himself to be his true self, most noticeable on his date with Marianne (Nicole Beharie) and with his boss, David (James Dale). He is constantly trapped and is unable to live freely due to this affliction he seems to have caught himself up in. It is as if, like a smoker, he is a slave to his addiction he completely changes as a person when he is having what you could call 'withdrawal symptoms'. He will do anything to get what he desires and when I say anything… watch the movie and you'll find out.

Sissy (Carey Mulligan)

Not without her own problems Brandon's sister provides a fabulous sub plot to this. You can genuinely feel the pain she is going through in her performance and truly brings the script alive. I don't think Steve could have asked for much more from his leading lady in order to bring the best out of the protagonist and emphasise the ordeal he is going through.

Final Thoughts

Shame is as brilliant as it is necessary in this day in age. A greater understanding and compassion for the affliction is very much required from the general public, and this movie is a great step in that direction. With a protagonist that you can truly warm to. A small but vital support cast in which there are no missing links and every role has meaning, this makes for a truly refreshing movie. Although glum at times, that is very much necessary in bringing realism to a dire affliction. With a plot that is not multifaceted and over complex it never staggers but only builds in momentum. Like a snowball down a hill, never is there a point where you are not fully invested in this movie. For that very reason it is undoubtedly my favourite Fassbender role to date. 9/10