The King's Speech

Throw together Colin Firth, Helen Bonham Carter in pearl dangle earrings and a plot-line based on the English monarchy and you may find yourself with this delightful British gem of a film. 

In The King's Speech we follow King George VI and his speech impediment struggle in times when radio was so crucial for reassurance during the Second World War. However, what drives this film is not just the emotional and physical battle, but also the rollercoaster relationship between the King and his audacious speech therapist, Lionel Logue. From a begrudging associate, Lionel soon becomes a pillar in the career and life of King George VI (affectionately nicknamed Bertie).

King George VI (Colin Furth) and Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush) in one of the funniest and loveliest montage scenes ever.

With beautiful cinematography and whimsical milky colourisation, this film is also a delight to watch. This star studded, heart warming story is a must see. 

9.5 /10

Carrie Shots - A Quick Thought

Moretz in the story's most iconic scene

Just got sent some images from the new Carrie remake. I've got to admit, I'm really excited about this remake, as the original 1976 version is a horror favourite of mine. However the casting of rising teen star, Chloe Moretz (Kickass' Hit-Girl) as Carrie has always been an odd choice in my eyes. 

The piercing eyes and prominent features of Sissy Spacek in the original made the famous prom scene fifty times more chilling.

Sissy Spacek, 1976

I just worry that Moretz's Hollywood, polished look may soften the horror. She just seems to "pretty-girl" to play the social outcast that is Carrie White and I worry it'll detract from the believably of the plot.

Chloe Moretz, the odd-ball reject? I think not.

Who knows, maybe I'm just using an excuse to be anti-remake. What are your thoughts?

A Brave Review

So on Saturday I finally went to see Brave, Disney Pixar's summer blockbuster. Brave is a film about a young Scottish princess, Merida, and her struggle against the expectations of her regal mother. Filled with magic and relatable teenage angst. 

I'd love to know how she got down from here.

I'll be the first to admit, I've always had a soft spot for Pixar and I always love their heart warming, feel good stories. With the young Merida uniting the Scottish clans and building bridges with her mother, Brave certainly did not disappoint on the light-hearted loveliness factor!

The visuals of the animation was perfect and absolutely stunning. Congrats Pixar! Although I'd love to know how much time and effort was put into Merida's scarlet, bouncy ringlets. I wouldn't be surprised if there were a "Hair Animator" credit. 

Swishy ginger looks - L'oreal style.

I felt that some of the comedy elements of this film did detract from the overall feel of the film and cheapened it slightly (I'm looking at you, overused and over exaggerated Scottish stereotypes!) However I guess it is to be expected from a children's film and I did laugh out loud at some of the jokes. 

Overall, a lovely, easy to watch fable. Suitable for all the family and filled with "awh" moments as well as action. 

8/10