that's right. 5000 views. I'm pleased. BUT. Right underneath, traffic sources... top result, google search for robocop brain in a jar. I'm not pleased.
And yeh, that's what the blogspot editing looks like, a bit of behind the scenes for you.
Thursday, 29 September 2011
Oh dear. Should I be pleased or ashamed.
that's right. 5000 views. I'm pleased. BUT. Right underneath, traffic sources... top result, google search for robocop brain in a jar. I'm not pleased.
And yeh, that's what the blogspot editing looks like, a bit of behind the scenes for you.
Sunday, 25 September 2011
Doctor Who Review: Closing Time
Right so, like probably half of the other reviewer on the internet will say, this year we've been spoiled. The last 3 weeks have been brilliant episodes that any other year each would be hailed as the best of the series. So when a good, not great, not special, just a good episode comes along, we get disappointed. And I mean there is a lot to be disapppointed about in this episode.
There's the use of the cybermen. They are used quite creepily in the first half of the episode, I especially liked the scars on their faces, could've made them even scarier than usual. But then the Doctor goes to their ship and him and Craig beat them with the power of love in about 5 minutes. They don't even lift a hand to stop him, and thus their threat is completely nulified. They weren't scary, the weren't even a danger to the Doc and Craig and so why should we care? That would be bad enough with a throwaway villian, but these are the cybermen, some of the aliens that have been with the series since the 1960s. They deserved better. And the other problems are... well, really there aren't any in the main episode, I'll get to the ending in a minute. The only problem is the enemies aren't a threat, so it's only one, but it's a big one. But although people will blow it out of proportion, I don't think that it completely ruined the episode. There's still a lot of good in it.
I really like James Corden as Craig. He's funny of his own, because he's such an awkward idiot and when him and Matt Smith are on screen together they really are just a perfect double act. That's my main draw to this episode, they were hilarious last year and they are hilarious this year. The Doctor talking to the baby was good, to begin with, it got a bit old, but Stormageddon was inspired. The supporting cast were again pretty funny, especially the moment where the Doctor explains the Cybermen's defeat to his friend is woman's wear and she says "why are you telling me this?". That moment had me laughing out loud. Even little touches like the scene with Amy and Rory and the slight nods to the Doctor having moved on since we last met him, almost leaving without getting involved because he's tired of it, show at least some effort was made to build more character over the 200 years between episodes, if not enough in my opinion. And last but not least, they brought back a cybermat and cybermats are brilliant.
So all in all, it's a very flawed episode, but I enjoyed it. It's not up to this series's standard but it's by far better than The Curse of the Black Spot and contraversially, I think it was better than Let's Kill Hitler. I'm definately disappointed, because if the plot had been as good as the Doctor and Craig's banter then we could've had something really special here, but we've still ended up with a pretty solid episode.
3/5
So as I said, let's talk about the ending. I've not included it in the review, because, I'm not really reviewing it, more questioning and it didn't really connect with the rest of the episode, seemed more tacked on. Is anyone else fed of the eye-patch woman, or Madame Korvanian to give her, her real title. Because I really can't take her as a threat anymore, she's just too over the top and hammed up. She doesn't seem like a real character, more a characature of a villian. And River Song is in the spacesuit? Really? I mean the whole series has been leading up to her being in the suit and you'd think knowing Moffat that there would be some twist that it was actually someone else. But obviously not. And another song? REALLY. These songs and poem just make me cringe. Although it is nice to see the Silence again. So, I suppose we'll just need to see what happens next week.
There's the use of the cybermen. They are used quite creepily in the first half of the episode, I especially liked the scars on their faces, could've made them even scarier than usual. But then the Doctor goes to their ship and him and Craig beat them with the power of love in about 5 minutes. They don't even lift a hand to stop him, and thus their threat is completely nulified. They weren't scary, the weren't even a danger to the Doc and Craig and so why should we care? That would be bad enough with a throwaway villian, but these are the cybermen, some of the aliens that have been with the series since the 1960s. They deserved better. And the other problems are... well, really there aren't any in the main episode, I'll get to the ending in a minute. The only problem is the enemies aren't a threat, so it's only one, but it's a big one. But although people will blow it out of proportion, I don't think that it completely ruined the episode. There's still a lot of good in it.
I really like James Corden as Craig. He's funny of his own, because he's such an awkward idiot and when him and Matt Smith are on screen together they really are just a perfect double act. That's my main draw to this episode, they were hilarious last year and they are hilarious this year. The Doctor talking to the baby was good, to begin with, it got a bit old, but Stormageddon was inspired. The supporting cast were again pretty funny, especially the moment where the Doctor explains the Cybermen's defeat to his friend is woman's wear and she says "why are you telling me this?". That moment had me laughing out loud. Even little touches like the scene with Amy and Rory and the slight nods to the Doctor having moved on since we last met him, almost leaving without getting involved because he's tired of it, show at least some effort was made to build more character over the 200 years between episodes, if not enough in my opinion. And last but not least, they brought back a cybermat and cybermats are brilliant.
So all in all, it's a very flawed episode, but I enjoyed it. It's not up to this series's standard but it's by far better than The Curse of the Black Spot and contraversially, I think it was better than Let's Kill Hitler. I'm definately disappointed, because if the plot had been as good as the Doctor and Craig's banter then we could've had something really special here, but we've still ended up with a pretty solid episode.
3/5
 |
| This bit is one of the best moments of this series. |
So as I said, let's talk about the ending. I've not included it in the review, because, I'm not really reviewing it, more questioning and it didn't really connect with the rest of the episode, seemed more tacked on. Is anyone else fed of the eye-patch woman, or Madame Korvanian to give her, her real title. Because I really can't take her as a threat anymore, she's just too over the top and hammed up. She doesn't seem like a real character, more a characature of a villian. And River Song is in the spacesuit? Really? I mean the whole series has been leading up to her being in the suit and you'd think knowing Moffat that there would be some twist that it was actually someone else. But obviously not. And another song? REALLY. These songs and poem just make me cringe. Although it is nice to see the Silence again. So, I suppose we'll just need to see what happens next week.
Thursday, 22 September 2011
Imdb Top 100 Part 6: 25-11
25. The Silence of the Lambs
This is one of my favourite horror films, if you can even describe it as that. It’s clever, dark and Anthony Hopkins is just amazing. And the part which really made it for me is when the main character is put in danger, and I was actually really scared for her. Lots of films can make you scared about what’ll jump out next, but it takes a special kind of film to make you worry for the characters.
24. The Usual Suspects
I like this film. I don’t really know what to say about this good parts. It’s well made, inventive and has great characters except for the whole film I want to slap Kevin Spacey for being so annoying. But then it has simultaneously one of the best and worst twists in film history. It’s a great twist, I won’t ruin it here. But there isn’t one hint in the film leading up to. Now you might think that’s a god thing, but for this type of reveal there really should be some clues. Clues that you don’t notice until you’ve seen the ending, but something. But here it just comes completely out of nowhere. So, it’s a great film, but with an annoying ending.
23. Raiders of the Lost Ark
Indiana Jones. I love Indy. Well, the first three. And this one is clearly the best. It’s got the best characters, best action and best sense of adventure. It’s definitely still as entertaining as ever. If you haven’t seen it, I’d definitely advise to watch it, and if you have... watch it again. My only problem with it, is it doesn’t have Sean Connery in it. Because him in Indy 3 is just the best thing, ever.
22. The Matrix
I don’t know if I’d agree the placing of the The Matrix. I mean it’s good, but it really this good? The actors aren’t half bad, except Keanu Reeves, and although he’s playing the part the way it’s probably meant to be, it’s still not that interesting. The plot has been done before and although it’s done well here, but it’s filled with philosophical rubbish that means nothing and doesn’t really go anywhere. Really the best things are the fight scenes and they are amazing, but should they really propel what is basically just a “good” film, into the top 100. Personally I don’t think so. Nothing against the film, I just don’t think it’s as good as it’s hyped up to be.
21. Rear Window
This is as simple as a film can get. A man breaks his leg and is stuck in his flat. To fill him time he looks out his window, but he starts to notice some very odd behaviour in his neighbours, until he’ll convinced that a man murdered his wife. Is Jimmy Stewart right? No-one seems to believe him, but every time his argument starts to fall apart something new comes along to strengthen his beliefs. A truly brilliant mystery.
20. Once Upon A Time In The West
This is my favourite western. It’s got all the tricks of the Dollars trilogy, but it’s refined into a better film than any of them. The characters are memorable, the harmonica is instantly stuck in your head and it looks like a huge sprawling world. The mysteries are intriguing and that have a good pay-off. This was the last film I saw out of the Imdb Top 100 and it definitely didn’t disappoint.
19. Casablanca
Casablanca is a romance film. But it’s like a romance film for men. All men want to be like the main character, because Humphrey Bogart is just so cool. It’s got a selection of interesting characters, mainly men and deals with Bogart’s simultaneous love and hate for a woman, but from his perspective. Really, if you’ve heard the plot and you think “nawh, it’ll be soppy romance” think again. It’s dark, entertaining and brilliant.
18. City Of God
I can’t really explain this film. I love it. If it was in English I think people might claim it was the greatest film ever made. Obviously because most critics we hear from are English speakers they’re prejudiced against it a little, but really this film has it all. It’s funny, it’s sad, it’s happy, it’s dark, it’s romantic, it’s heartbreaking, it’s gritty and over the top at different point and it leaves an impression. Really I can’t praise this film enough, and even though I say watch it even though it’s in a foreign language with any film on this list, this film I really mean it. It’s a true masterpiece.
17. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Fellowship might be might favourite of all the LOTR films. The others are very battle driven, but what I really like about this film is the sense of adventure there is. For the most part the film is just a journey rather than some world changing events and while it might not be as epic as the other films, I think it’s far more fun than them.
16. Star Wars
Come on. It’s Star Wars. What do you expect me to say? Everyone’s seen it, or should’ve seen it. It’s a grand adventure and the film that started the greatest film trilogy of all time. Sure it’s what spawned The Phantom Menace, but if the originals weren’t so good no-one would’ve cared about that film. Seriously, there’s nothing to be said you don’t already know. If you haven’t seen it, get out from under your rock and watch it right this second.
15. Goodfellas
Sorry to disappoint people, but The Godfather is not my favourite gangster film. This is. And the reason why? Even though it has very dark moments and deals with a lot of violence and death, it definitely has a lot of fun. I’ve always found Godfather , although a brilliant film a bit serious for my taste. Goodfellas is just great fun to watch. And you’ll still get your De Niro fix. One problem with this film, is now I’ve seen Home Alone I can’t take Joe Pesci seriously anymore.
14. Fight Club
Is Fight Club one of those films everyone’s seen? Like Forrest Gump? I don’t know. It should be. It’s brilliant. I think everyone knows the twist by now which is disappointing, because it’s very well done. It’s got hints that you realize after learning the twist, but before you just think it’s part of the mystery. This is a very powerful and entertaining film. Norton and Pitt are brilliant in it and I didn’t even mind Helena Bonham Carter, an actress I normally find unbelievably annoying. A must see.
13. Seven Samurai
This is a film I really want to like. I like the characters, I like the designs and visuals, I like the story, I like the lines. But there’s something about it. Maybe it’s how long it is, considering it’s in a foreign language, and maybe I don’t have the patience for that. I’d like to hope not. I can’t really explain what it is, but I can see this is a brilliant and inspired film, but I just can’t bring myself to advise it. I bought a video game based on it the other day for PS2, which looked more like a Final Fantasy game. Maybe that’ll change my mind. Or maybe it’ll just annoy me for ruining a brilliant film. Either way I’m sure I’ll enjoy it.
12. The Empire Strikes Back
Again, why do you need to ask? I can understand people not having seen the LOTR trilogy or not having seen the new Star Wars films. But everyone’s seen this. The AT-AT battle on Hoth, Yoda in the swamp, Vader and Luke’s battle leading to a shocking revelation. This is old news, but still as good as ever. Also it has my favourite bad-ass moment of any movie villain ever.
11. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King
And finally, just missing out on the top ten is the last of the LOTR trilogy. I personally don’t think of this as a great film, more of a spectacle. There’s character and heart, but it’s all overshadowed by the battles. Really this film is, well, spectacular. No other word. You sit there like “woaw...”. And the best thing about it is that you actually care about the people in it, not like most other effect covered films. We want to see want happens with our favourite characters. It’s all been leading up to this and it doesn’t disappoint.
NEXT TIME. THE TOP TEN.
This is one of my favourite horror films, if you can even describe it as that. It’s clever, dark and Anthony Hopkins is just amazing. And the part which really made it for me is when the main character is put in danger, and I was actually really scared for her. Lots of films can make you scared about what’ll jump out next, but it takes a special kind of film to make you worry for the characters.
24. The Usual Suspects
I like this film. I don’t really know what to say about this good parts. It’s well made, inventive and has great characters except for the whole film I want to slap Kevin Spacey for being so annoying. But then it has simultaneously one of the best and worst twists in film history. It’s a great twist, I won’t ruin it here. But there isn’t one hint in the film leading up to. Now you might think that’s a god thing, but for this type of reveal there really should be some clues. Clues that you don’t notice until you’ve seen the ending, but something. But here it just comes completely out of nowhere. So, it’s a great film, but with an annoying ending.
23. Raiders of the Lost Ark
Indiana Jones. I love Indy. Well, the first three. And this one is clearly the best. It’s got the best characters, best action and best sense of adventure. It’s definitely still as entertaining as ever. If you haven’t seen it, I’d definitely advise to watch it, and if you have... watch it again. My only problem with it, is it doesn’t have Sean Connery in it. Because him in Indy 3 is just the best thing, ever.
22. The Matrix
I don’t know if I’d agree the placing of the The Matrix. I mean it’s good, but it really this good? The actors aren’t half bad, except Keanu Reeves, and although he’s playing the part the way it’s probably meant to be, it’s still not that interesting. The plot has been done before and although it’s done well here, but it’s filled with philosophical rubbish that means nothing and doesn’t really go anywhere. Really the best things are the fight scenes and they are amazing, but should they really propel what is basically just a “good” film, into the top 100. Personally I don’t think so. Nothing against the film, I just don’t think it’s as good as it’s hyped up to be.
21. Rear Window
This is as simple as a film can get. A man breaks his leg and is stuck in his flat. To fill him time he looks out his window, but he starts to notice some very odd behaviour in his neighbours, until he’ll convinced that a man murdered his wife. Is Jimmy Stewart right? No-one seems to believe him, but every time his argument starts to fall apart something new comes along to strengthen his beliefs. A truly brilliant mystery.
20. Once Upon A Time In The West
This is my favourite western. It’s got all the tricks of the Dollars trilogy, but it’s refined into a better film than any of them. The characters are memorable, the harmonica is instantly stuck in your head and it looks like a huge sprawling world. The mysteries are intriguing and that have a good pay-off. This was the last film I saw out of the Imdb Top 100 and it definitely didn’t disappoint.
19. Casablanca
Casablanca is a romance film. But it’s like a romance film for men. All men want to be like the main character, because Humphrey Bogart is just so cool. It’s got a selection of interesting characters, mainly men and deals with Bogart’s simultaneous love and hate for a woman, but from his perspective. Really, if you’ve heard the plot and you think “nawh, it’ll be soppy romance” think again. It’s dark, entertaining and brilliant.
18. City Of God
I can’t really explain this film. I love it. If it was in English I think people might claim it was the greatest film ever made. Obviously because most critics we hear from are English speakers they’re prejudiced against it a little, but really this film has it all. It’s funny, it’s sad, it’s happy, it’s dark, it’s romantic, it’s heartbreaking, it’s gritty and over the top at different point and it leaves an impression. Really I can’t praise this film enough, and even though I say watch it even though it’s in a foreign language with any film on this list, this film I really mean it. It’s a true masterpiece.
17. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Fellowship might be might favourite of all the LOTR films. The others are very battle driven, but what I really like about this film is the sense of adventure there is. For the most part the film is just a journey rather than some world changing events and while it might not be as epic as the other films, I think it’s far more fun than them.
16. Star Wars
Come on. It’s Star Wars. What do you expect me to say? Everyone’s seen it, or should’ve seen it. It’s a grand adventure and the film that started the greatest film trilogy of all time. Sure it’s what spawned The Phantom Menace, but if the originals weren’t so good no-one would’ve cared about that film. Seriously, there’s nothing to be said you don’t already know. If you haven’t seen it, get out from under your rock and watch it right this second.
15. Goodfellas
Sorry to disappoint people, but The Godfather is not my favourite gangster film. This is. And the reason why? Even though it has very dark moments and deals with a lot of violence and death, it definitely has a lot of fun. I’ve always found Godfather , although a brilliant film a bit serious for my taste. Goodfellas is just great fun to watch. And you’ll still get your De Niro fix. One problem with this film, is now I’ve seen Home Alone I can’t take Joe Pesci seriously anymore.
14. Fight Club
Is Fight Club one of those films everyone’s seen? Like Forrest Gump? I don’t know. It should be. It’s brilliant. I think everyone knows the twist by now which is disappointing, because it’s very well done. It’s got hints that you realize after learning the twist, but before you just think it’s part of the mystery. This is a very powerful and entertaining film. Norton and Pitt are brilliant in it and I didn’t even mind Helena Bonham Carter, an actress I normally find unbelievably annoying. A must see.
13. Seven Samurai
This is a film I really want to like. I like the characters, I like the designs and visuals, I like the story, I like the lines. But there’s something about it. Maybe it’s how long it is, considering it’s in a foreign language, and maybe I don’t have the patience for that. I’d like to hope not. I can’t really explain what it is, but I can see this is a brilliant and inspired film, but I just can’t bring myself to advise it. I bought a video game based on it the other day for PS2, which looked more like a Final Fantasy game. Maybe that’ll change my mind. Or maybe it’ll just annoy me for ruining a brilliant film. Either way I’m sure I’ll enjoy it.
12. The Empire Strikes Back
Again, why do you need to ask? I can understand people not having seen the LOTR trilogy or not having seen the new Star Wars films. But everyone’s seen this. The AT-AT battle on Hoth, Yoda in the swamp, Vader and Luke’s battle leading to a shocking revelation. This is old news, but still as good as ever. Also it has my favourite bad-ass moment of any movie villain ever.
11. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King
And finally, just missing out on the top ten is the last of the LOTR trilogy. I personally don’t think of this as a great film, more of a spectacle. There’s character and heart, but it’s all overshadowed by the battles. Really this film is, well, spectacular. No other word. You sit there like “woaw...”. And the best thing about it is that you actually care about the people in it, not like most other effect covered films. We want to see want happens with our favourite characters. It’s all been leading up to this and it doesn’t disappoint.
NEXT TIME. THE TOP TEN.
Monday, 19 September 2011
WSIFITS: The Shawshank... wait, NO. No it just can't be.
Right so, in Cash Generator they sell 4 packs of DVDs in a single case. You’re probably seen them in other shops too, but you won’t have paid a lot of attention, because although it’s 4 films for the price of 1, it’s unbelievably obvious to see why. Last set I bought was a creature features set featuring: Octopus, Octopus 2, Spiders and Spiders 2. They all have an Imdb rating of lower than 3/10 and were all straight to dvd b-movies. And that was one of the better sets. Pretty much what I’m saying is that all the sets are total shite. In Cash Generator it costs £1 for a set. That’s 25 pence per film. Hardly bank breaking. So I bought a set the other day. It featured Final Scream, Shivers and Witchcraft. These, well I haven’t watched them yet, but I looked them up and they seem to be the usual standard of trash they put on these sets. So far, so bad. Then, we come to the reason I bought a set of four films which I knew would be bad and didn’t even look very funny. Packed with those three, was this little film called The Shawshank Redemption. Wait. WHAT?
Seriously… What the actual fuck? Shawshank has been voted the greatest film of all time, how did “Prism Leisure” get the rights to distribute it? And when they did, why did they think it was a good idea to pack in a multipack with three rubbish films. I have no more to say about this because I literally can’t comprehend this. It’s completely beyond me. Just… what?
Seriously… What the actual fuck? Shawshank has been voted the greatest film of all time, how did “Prism Leisure” get the rights to distribute it? And when they did, why did they think it was a good idea to pack in a multipack with three rubbish films. I have no more to say about this because I literally can’t comprehend this. It’s completely beyond me. Just… what?
 |
| Look at it. I'm not even kidding. This thing exists. It cost me £1. |
Saturday, 17 September 2011
Doctor Who Review: The God Complex
I'm going to say to say what we've all been thinking. I like how Doctor Who is going this series. After a lack-luster premiere, every week has been consistantly brilliant and this week is no different. It's a classic Who set-up. The Tardis crew get trapped somewhere creepy with a group of others who are also trapped and they have to get away before a mysterious menace gets them. There's one of these practically every series, which it all the better that this episode feels wholly new and exciting.
Right so, lets go through what works. Plot. Compelling mystery, the minotaur's motivation makes the story more than just a monster of the week affair, idea of the rooms and the way they're used, very effective, the twists and turns good, and the photos at the start very intreguing. Again this week not everything is revealed until the end and it being hidden makes the story far more engaging and the conclusion wasn't a let down either. The episode is well directed and has a very unnerving atmosphere to it, which draws greatly from the setting in the 80s hotel, which is just far away from the norm to make it worrying but not over the top. The main cast bring their a-games with hilarious and heartbreaking performances throughout and the supporting actors are also impressive especially David Walliams as the hilarious Gibbis and Amara Karan as Rita who made me really care about her, so much I was truly upset when she died.
But I think we all know what brought this episode up from just a great story to one of the best of the season. The last 15 minutes involve the Doctor having to make Amy lose her faith in him, and it's just horrifying to see her finally accept him as just a flawed man when the whole time she's worshipped him as a hero. The disappointment in her eyes is so real, and she finally sees what Rory has seen in the Doctor all along. Then comes the ending. The Doctor and his companions part ways. And the heartbreaking thing is it's not because of them being forced or reaching a point where they have to leave, just the Doctor can't bring himself to put them in danger any more. Amy doesn't want to leave and the Doctor doesn't want to leave her either, but he knows if she stays with him, she'll die one day. The lead actors are brilliant in this scene and you can really see the torture in Matt Smith's eyes. It's done with such subtly as well, in contrast to the overblown exits of Rose, Martha and Donna, and I know Amy and Rory will be back, but if this had been the last time we saw them, I'd be glad because their exit is done with such class that it was hard not to enjoy it, but be devastated at the same time.
So, any flaws? None that I can think of. I'm sure if I really tried I could think of something, but I'd need to try, on a casual viewing this seems like a perfect Doctor Who experiance. It's funny, scary, unnerving and heart breaking and I can't think of what more to ask for. Let's just hope this streak of classic stories continues.
5/5
Right so, lets go through what works. Plot. Compelling mystery, the minotaur's motivation makes the story more than just a monster of the week affair, idea of the rooms and the way they're used, very effective, the twists and turns good, and the photos at the start very intreguing. Again this week not everything is revealed until the end and it being hidden makes the story far more engaging and the conclusion wasn't a let down either. The episode is well directed and has a very unnerving atmosphere to it, which draws greatly from the setting in the 80s hotel, which is just far away from the norm to make it worrying but not over the top. The main cast bring their a-games with hilarious and heartbreaking performances throughout and the supporting actors are also impressive especially David Walliams as the hilarious Gibbis and Amara Karan as Rita who made me really care about her, so much I was truly upset when she died.
But I think we all know what brought this episode up from just a great story to one of the best of the season. The last 15 minutes involve the Doctor having to make Amy lose her faith in him, and it's just horrifying to see her finally accept him as just a flawed man when the whole time she's worshipped him as a hero. The disappointment in her eyes is so real, and she finally sees what Rory has seen in the Doctor all along. Then comes the ending. The Doctor and his companions part ways. And the heartbreaking thing is it's not because of them being forced or reaching a point where they have to leave, just the Doctor can't bring himself to put them in danger any more. Amy doesn't want to leave and the Doctor doesn't want to leave her either, but he knows if she stays with him, she'll die one day. The lead actors are brilliant in this scene and you can really see the torture in Matt Smith's eyes. It's done with such subtly as well, in contrast to the overblown exits of Rose, Martha and Donna, and I know Amy and Rory will be back, but if this had been the last time we saw them, I'd be glad because their exit is done with such class that it was hard not to enjoy it, but be devastated at the same time.
So, any flaws? None that I can think of. I'm sure if I really tried I could think of something, but I'd need to try, on a casual viewing this seems like a perfect Doctor Who experiance. It's funny, scary, unnerving and heart breaking and I can't think of what more to ask for. Let's just hope this streak of classic stories continues.
5/5
Thursday, 15 September 2011
Coming Soon... if you're really that bothered.
Ah! This is more like it. Forget lists and reviews for a minutes and let me just say a few words that really have nothing to do with anything important. Right, so now everyone’s stopped reading, let me continue. Lots of things are going on right now. I’ve moved into my new flat. It’s boiling hot and this chair sits oddly like it’s trying to throw me out of it. But overall it’s not bad. I’ve got a new girl, which is unfortunate, because it might lead to me being not quite as filled with hate for everything, but after a search for a suit that took about 9 years yesterday, I somehow feel that might not be the case. I’ve started at uni, which means I both have more and less time. I have more time in my flat for me to write and that, but I also have to read texts and do actual writing for important things. Oh dear. Hopefully it won’t drain the creative juices. Oh and at the time of writing I’m away to go to the Sensation for the first time. Better be good.
And now for a list of things…. COMING SOON. I know, I know, calm your excitement.
1. My laptop has an inbuilt webcam so now I can again record video of me talking, it can’t be long til the return of Poundcorner, and I definitely have a fair few things to talk about now.
2. I’m in the process of finding a camcorder. Now you might say, why do I need one if I can record vlogs on my laptop. Well, you can’t know yet… well only kidding. I’d gonna make a short film/sketch. It’s written, but you don’t get to see it yet.
3. I have ideas for some new blogs all buzzing about my head, so now I’m settled in the flat, I should be getting them out more often that when I was working 9 days in a row then moving then freshers.
4. For either the 75th or 100th post, or even maybe the 5000 view if we’re organized enough, there’s gonna be another podcast. But this time. It’s personal.
And 4. Project Vincent. It’s a plan Lewis Bage and I have hatched. All I can tell you is it’s within the law. That’s it. We’re not revealing any more at this moment. It’s been on hold for about a week and a half, but now we’re back in business, so get ready to hear more of that soon.
And as with all these blogs about nothing I need to make it up to you with a picture of me doing something stupid. So here's me and Mr T. Ish.
And now for a list of things…. COMING SOON. I know, I know, calm your excitement.
1. My laptop has an inbuilt webcam so now I can again record video of me talking, it can’t be long til the return of Poundcorner, and I definitely have a fair few things to talk about now.
2. I’m in the process of finding a camcorder. Now you might say, why do I need one if I can record vlogs on my laptop. Well, you can’t know yet… well only kidding. I’d gonna make a short film/sketch. It’s written, but you don’t get to see it yet.
3. I have ideas for some new blogs all buzzing about my head, so now I’m settled in the flat, I should be getting them out more often that when I was working 9 days in a row then moving then freshers.
4. For either the 75th or 100th post, or even maybe the 5000 view if we’re organized enough, there’s gonna be another podcast. But this time. It’s personal.
And 4. Project Vincent. It’s a plan Lewis Bage and I have hatched. All I can tell you is it’s within the law. That’s it. We’re not revealing any more at this moment. It’s been on hold for about a week and a half, but now we’re back in business, so get ready to hear more of that soon.
And as with all these blogs about nothing I need to make it up to you with a picture of me doing something stupid. So here's me and Mr T. Ish.
Tuesday, 13 September 2011
Imdb Top 100 Part 5: 40-26
40. American Beauty
This is truly a film not like any other. I mean, what genre is it? I don’t know. It’s not romance, it’s way to creepy and dark for that, it’s not a thriller, the only word I can use is a “psychological” film. It’s about a man who’s attracted to his daughter’s friend and that inspires him to live his life, but everything around eventually falls apart. Really a must-see, you’ll never see anything else like it.
39. North by Northwest
Another Hitchcock thriller, this time about a man mistaken for a spy. It’s not just any 60’s spy film though, there are twists and turns that really surprise and shock you. There’s a brilliant plot and cast, especially the main characters mother, my favourite character. Her scene in the lift is hilarious. Watch and find out what I mean.
38. Citizen Kane
The Citizen Kane of all movies is of course, Citizen Kane. Regarded by many as the greatest film of all time, I can’t really fault it. Not because I’m scared of getting attacked by fans, but because it is actually that good. Well, maybe not the best film ever, but definitely up there. It’s the best film I’ve seen from its time and for years after, and while I don’t worship it, I would definitely say it’s one of the best and most influencial
37. Toy Story 3
The first Toy Story was brilliant, the second was great, but this one really gives us everything it’s got. The toys we’ve grown up with are given away when Andy goes to university. But the nursery they end up in turns out to be a terrible place, and they lose Woody, then things go terribly wrong until the most emotional animated scene ever. If you’ve seen it, you know what I mean, if you haven’t then you won’t believe how moving it is until you do.
36. American History X
A Neo-Nazi, played by Edward Norton, comes out of prison a changed man. Unfortunately his brother is heading down the dark past that put Norton in jail to begin with. The film follows the story of both brothers in the present and in flashback, and it was really an eye opener. I didn’t really understand how such people could still exist even now, but this film really explains the culture and shows the terrible effects it has on families and the community.
35. Apocalypse Now
One of the most brilliant war films of all time. It’s just great to watch and asks many questions, until it reaches my major problem with it. SPOILER WARNING. At the end of the film Martin Sheen meets the crazed Marlon Brando and his cult, but I really can’t understand what it is about Brando that all these people are enthralled by. I work with people with mental problems and I can see lots of their behaviour in his character which really means I can’t see why anyone would think he was wise and not just ill. Maybe it’s just me, but it’s never really sat right.
34. Dr Strangelove or How I Learnt to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb
One of the few Stanley Kubrick films I don’t have a problem with. Normally something in the way he directs bugs me, but I really enjoy this film. It’s truly hilarious, but in a really dark way. Every joke works, and by the end you’re both thinking about the implications and still laughing. It’s the perfect example of an intelligent comedy.
33. Leon
I saw this film recently, but I’d wanting to see it for ages. It’s the story of a hitman who adopts a little girl after her family are murdered. That sounds awful, but it’s done really well. All the parts are played really well, subtle Leon, surprising good child actress Natalie Portman isn’t completely annoying, and Gary Oldman... well he’s just fucking insane. It’s brilliant. It’s like a feel bonding tale crossed with a tragedy crossed with an action movie crossed with an art film, and I love it.
32. Sunset Boulevard
There were a lot of films about aging stars back in the 50s, but this is by far the best. It’s classic film noir, with the dark visuals and twisting plot and it really is just a descent into madness. You don’t know whether to feel pity or be repulsed and the things that happen to the main male character, well no-one deserved that. It’s grand and impressive but filled with anger and bitterness, just like the characters.
31. Memento
This is Christopher Nolan at his best. This is a very complex film, but it’s totally worth it. It’s about a man who can’t form short term memories. His memory only lasts about 10,20 minutes. So we see each section of his memory, but we see it in reverse order. Things at the end which he doesn’t understand are revealed to us in the flashbacks and the revelations are truly shocking, and utterly brilliant. Definitely one to watch if you’re wanting to used your head.
30. Forrest Gump
I must be one of the few people not to have seen Forrest Gump years ago. I only saw it a few months ago after people said how shocking it was I’d never seen it. And I can see why it’s a brilliant film now I’ve watched it, but I can’t really see what makes it a much watch over the other films in this list. My only idea is that it’s because of how easy it is to watch. That doesn’t mean there’s nothing to it like a dumb action film, it’s just you can sit down, turn it on and the time passes without you even realizing it. At the end you feel happy and relaxed and I can’t really explain why, but it’s a great experience.
29. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
And now we come to our first LOTR film. I used to love LOTR when I was younger, not as much as Star Wars but almost. I think everyone knows what LOTR is, even if you haven’t seen it, so there’s not really much to explain. The reason I think this one gets voted less well than the others is that it’s the middle one. In my opinion they’re all of equal quality, but this one doesn’t really begin or end any stories, so it’s a great watch, but much as there are a number of huge battles, there isn’t the sense of conclusion as you get with ROTK and there’s not the sense of anticipation as you get with FOTR. But it’s still a great film, don’t get me wrong.
28. It’s a Wonderful Life
This is one of my top ten films ever. Really. I love it. I love Jimmy Stewart, I love Clarence, I love the supporting cast and this tragedy of the man’s life and I love the darkness of the world without him. And most of all I love the ending. If you’ve seen it you know why, and if you’ve not, I cried at it, and I don’t cry at anything, so that should give you the impression of the impact it has, it’s just so happy. Look it up now. But watch the B&W version, that just feels better than the computer added colours which seem unnatural.
27. Se7en
It’s a good mystery, great main characters, interesting mode of murder and sinister atmosphere. And now, SPOILER WARNING. At the end of the film it turns out that the murderer has planned a whole situation and before allowing himself to get caught he went to one of the detective’s houses and cut off their wife’s head and put it in a box. This is supposed to be shocking and all that, but I just can’t take it seriously. Like come on, head in a box? He’s not a supervillian off a particularly dark cartoon. It really ruins the movie, because for me it just takes one step over the line of suspending my disbelief and makes the film just seem silly. At least to me. Obviously you can decide yourself.
26. Psycho
Everyone knows the shower scene. But I wonder how many people have actually seen the rest of the film. Because it’s an intriguing mystery and a dark slashed film, with a mad, but brilliant twist at the end. It’s the most perfect slashed film, and very entertaining. But the last scene, with the Doctor is just... awful. I don’t understand why it’s there. But still, great film.
This is truly a film not like any other. I mean, what genre is it? I don’t know. It’s not romance, it’s way to creepy and dark for that, it’s not a thriller, the only word I can use is a “psychological” film. It’s about a man who’s attracted to his daughter’s friend and that inspires him to live his life, but everything around eventually falls apart. Really a must-see, you’ll never see anything else like it.
39. North by Northwest
Another Hitchcock thriller, this time about a man mistaken for a spy. It’s not just any 60’s spy film though, there are twists and turns that really surprise and shock you. There’s a brilliant plot and cast, especially the main characters mother, my favourite character. Her scene in the lift is hilarious. Watch and find out what I mean.
38. Citizen Kane
The Citizen Kane of all movies is of course, Citizen Kane. Regarded by many as the greatest film of all time, I can’t really fault it. Not because I’m scared of getting attacked by fans, but because it is actually that good. Well, maybe not the best film ever, but definitely up there. It’s the best film I’ve seen from its time and for years after, and while I don’t worship it, I would definitely say it’s one of the best and most influencial
37. Toy Story 3
The first Toy Story was brilliant, the second was great, but this one really gives us everything it’s got. The toys we’ve grown up with are given away when Andy goes to university. But the nursery they end up in turns out to be a terrible place, and they lose Woody, then things go terribly wrong until the most emotional animated scene ever. If you’ve seen it, you know what I mean, if you haven’t then you won’t believe how moving it is until you do.
36. American History X
A Neo-Nazi, played by Edward Norton, comes out of prison a changed man. Unfortunately his brother is heading down the dark past that put Norton in jail to begin with. The film follows the story of both brothers in the present and in flashback, and it was really an eye opener. I didn’t really understand how such people could still exist even now, but this film really explains the culture and shows the terrible effects it has on families and the community.
35. Apocalypse Now
One of the most brilliant war films of all time. It’s just great to watch and asks many questions, until it reaches my major problem with it. SPOILER WARNING. At the end of the film Martin Sheen meets the crazed Marlon Brando and his cult, but I really can’t understand what it is about Brando that all these people are enthralled by. I work with people with mental problems and I can see lots of their behaviour in his character which really means I can’t see why anyone would think he was wise and not just ill. Maybe it’s just me, but it’s never really sat right.
34. Dr Strangelove or How I Learnt to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb
One of the few Stanley Kubrick films I don’t have a problem with. Normally something in the way he directs bugs me, but I really enjoy this film. It’s truly hilarious, but in a really dark way. Every joke works, and by the end you’re both thinking about the implications and still laughing. It’s the perfect example of an intelligent comedy.
33. Leon
I saw this film recently, but I’d wanting to see it for ages. It’s the story of a hitman who adopts a little girl after her family are murdered. That sounds awful, but it’s done really well. All the parts are played really well, subtle Leon, surprising good child actress Natalie Portman isn’t completely annoying, and Gary Oldman... well he’s just fucking insane. It’s brilliant. It’s like a feel bonding tale crossed with a tragedy crossed with an action movie crossed with an art film, and I love it.
32. Sunset Boulevard
There were a lot of films about aging stars back in the 50s, but this is by far the best. It’s classic film noir, with the dark visuals and twisting plot and it really is just a descent into madness. You don’t know whether to feel pity or be repulsed and the things that happen to the main male character, well no-one deserved that. It’s grand and impressive but filled with anger and bitterness, just like the characters.
31. Memento
This is Christopher Nolan at his best. This is a very complex film, but it’s totally worth it. It’s about a man who can’t form short term memories. His memory only lasts about 10,20 minutes. So we see each section of his memory, but we see it in reverse order. Things at the end which he doesn’t understand are revealed to us in the flashbacks and the revelations are truly shocking, and utterly brilliant. Definitely one to watch if you’re wanting to used your head.
30. Forrest Gump
I must be one of the few people not to have seen Forrest Gump years ago. I only saw it a few months ago after people said how shocking it was I’d never seen it. And I can see why it’s a brilliant film now I’ve watched it, but I can’t really see what makes it a much watch over the other films in this list. My only idea is that it’s because of how easy it is to watch. That doesn’t mean there’s nothing to it like a dumb action film, it’s just you can sit down, turn it on and the time passes without you even realizing it. At the end you feel happy and relaxed and I can’t really explain why, but it’s a great experience.
29. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
And now we come to our first LOTR film. I used to love LOTR when I was younger, not as much as Star Wars but almost. I think everyone knows what LOTR is, even if you haven’t seen it, so there’s not really much to explain. The reason I think this one gets voted less well than the others is that it’s the middle one. In my opinion they’re all of equal quality, but this one doesn’t really begin or end any stories, so it’s a great watch, but much as there are a number of huge battles, there isn’t the sense of conclusion as you get with ROTK and there’s not the sense of anticipation as you get with FOTR. But it’s still a great film, don’t get me wrong.
28. It’s a Wonderful Life
This is one of my top ten films ever. Really. I love it. I love Jimmy Stewart, I love Clarence, I love the supporting cast and this tragedy of the man’s life and I love the darkness of the world without him. And most of all I love the ending. If you’ve seen it you know why, and if you’ve not, I cried at it, and I don’t cry at anything, so that should give you the impression of the impact it has, it’s just so happy. Look it up now. But watch the B&W version, that just feels better than the computer added colours which seem unnatural.
27. Se7en
It’s a good mystery, great main characters, interesting mode of murder and sinister atmosphere. And now, SPOILER WARNING. At the end of the film it turns out that the murderer has planned a whole situation and before allowing himself to get caught he went to one of the detective’s houses and cut off their wife’s head and put it in a box. This is supposed to be shocking and all that, but I just can’t take it seriously. Like come on, head in a box? He’s not a supervillian off a particularly dark cartoon. It really ruins the movie, because for me it just takes one step over the line of suspending my disbelief and makes the film just seem silly. At least to me. Obviously you can decide yourself.
26. Psycho
Everyone knows the shower scene. But I wonder how many people have actually seen the rest of the film. Because it’s an intriguing mystery and a dark slashed film, with a mad, but brilliant twist at the end. It’s the most perfect slashed film, and very entertaining. But the last scene, with the Doctor is just... awful. I don’t understand why it’s there. But still, great film.
Monday, 12 September 2011
Doctor Who Review: The Girl Who Waited.
Right well… This is a complicated one. It’s very different. Like Lets Kill Hitler this is a story that only really involves the main cast and some under-developed villains. Unlike that episode though, this actually has an interesting story to tell. It’s far too complex to explain in a couple of sentences, so I’m not going to try. Really if you’re reading this, you should have watched the episode because otherwise I will probably spoil it for you. Oh yeah, spoiler alert by the way.
One thing that I really enjoyed about this episode is it centered on the companions Amy and Rory. That’s not to say I haven’t liked the previous stories looking at the Doctor, but the couple haven’t been given a lot to do lately, so it’s good to see them take centre stage. Karen Gillian is brilliant as the two Amys, showing how the years have ruined the older Amy’s life, but still keeping hints of the woman she used to be. I’d say that her two performances were the high point of the episode, but the best part has to be the relationship between Amy and Rory. The scenes where they are together are just brilliant, and it’s great to see that old Amy still loves Rory even after 36 years apart, especially when they started the series on such rocky ground. The visual design, something I don’t comment on a lot, is very striking. When the Tardis doors open to the white room, it’s a shock to the system and the giant magnifying glass communicator looks brilliantly retro as do Rory’s specs.
It isn’t a perfect episode. The mechanics behind the two Amy’s getting to the same time and place aren’t explained at all and the of hundreds of people possibly being trapped like Amy aren’t explored but really that’s nitpicking. Theres only one major problem and that was the robots. I don’t know what it was about them, maybe it was how they were defeated so easily, maybe it was their bland design, but something just really didn’t sit right with me, and I think they brought the episode down a bit.
But let’s end on a cheery note. Something properly introduced in this episode and hinted at before. The Doctor lies and manipulates people. More and more we’re seeing a dark side to him, but it’s in this episode where he tricks old Amy into helping him then refuses to save her, that really brings it to the forefront. The scene where he locks her out of the Tardis is really moving and finally starts to open Rory’s eyes about who the Doctor really is. I definitely hoping for more of this to come, maybe even this is why they part their ways? Who knows? We’ll just have to wait and see. Another very good episode of Doctor Who, and I hope next week keeps up the trend.
4/5
One thing that I really enjoyed about this episode is it centered on the companions Amy and Rory. That’s not to say I haven’t liked the previous stories looking at the Doctor, but the couple haven’t been given a lot to do lately, so it’s good to see them take centre stage. Karen Gillian is brilliant as the two Amys, showing how the years have ruined the older Amy’s life, but still keeping hints of the woman she used to be. I’d say that her two performances were the high point of the episode, but the best part has to be the relationship between Amy and Rory. The scenes where they are together are just brilliant, and it’s great to see that old Amy still loves Rory even after 36 years apart, especially when they started the series on such rocky ground. The visual design, something I don’t comment on a lot, is very striking. When the Tardis doors open to the white room, it’s a shock to the system and the giant magnifying glass communicator looks brilliantly retro as do Rory’s specs.
It isn’t a perfect episode. The mechanics behind the two Amy’s getting to the same time and place aren’t explained at all and the of hundreds of people possibly being trapped like Amy aren’t explored but really that’s nitpicking. Theres only one major problem and that was the robots. I don’t know what it was about them, maybe it was how they were defeated so easily, maybe it was their bland design, but something just really didn’t sit right with me, and I think they brought the episode down a bit.
But let’s end on a cheery note. Something properly introduced in this episode and hinted at before. The Doctor lies and manipulates people. More and more we’re seeing a dark side to him, but it’s in this episode where he tricks old Amy into helping him then refuses to save her, that really brings it to the forefront. The scene where he locks her out of the Tardis is really moving and finally starts to open Rory’s eyes about who the Doctor really is. I definitely hoping for more of this to come, maybe even this is why they part their ways? Who knows? We’ll just have to wait and see. Another very good episode of Doctor Who, and I hope next week keeps up the trend.
4/5
Tuesday, 6 September 2011
Doctor Who Review: Night Terrors
Now THAT is what I call entertainment. I absolutely loved this episode. I really don't know what to say about it, it really just had everything. It was funny, especially the part at the start where the Tardis crew investigate the council estate, which I partically liked, because it showed up my problem with the Russell T Davies stories, the Doctor fitted too well into the estates in those series. I've always thought that the Doctor would stand out there, I mean he's a 900ish year old alien who dresses like an old man and talks like a manaic, and he never got any hate before? This was far more like what would really happen if a guy like him turned up in a place like that.
But enough of other series's problems. Back to Night Terrors. Again, more things I liked. The idea of the Doctor coming all the way across the universe to save one scared boy was a sweet one, and although the kid playing George wasn't the best actor, the way they used him, mean you barely noticed. The dolls' house and the dolls themselves were wonderfully inventive and surprisingly creepy and the idea of all the monsters in the cupboard was the stuff of nightmares. The plot was intreguing and I thought it had a rewarding reveal. And the main credit for this story being so good has to go the cast. The regulars were on top form, especially Matt Smith, and his scenes with Daniel Mays shined with brilliant acting from both of them. Even the bit parts, such as the landlord and the old woman were hilarious and unbelievably well developed for the short time they were on screen. And there was even a speech misquoted from the old series to keep me happy. Honestly, I can't find fault in this story, and in fact it's already my favourite Matt Smith episode, and after repeated viewing could be my favourite from the new series. I really can't praise it enough, and I hope we see more of this caliber in years to come.
5/5
But enough of other series's problems. Back to Night Terrors. Again, more things I liked. The idea of the Doctor coming all the way across the universe to save one scared boy was a sweet one, and although the kid playing George wasn't the best actor, the way they used him, mean you barely noticed. The dolls' house and the dolls themselves were wonderfully inventive and surprisingly creepy and the idea of all the monsters in the cupboard was the stuff of nightmares. The plot was intreguing and I thought it had a rewarding reveal. And the main credit for this story being so good has to go the cast. The regulars were on top form, especially Matt Smith, and his scenes with Daniel Mays shined with brilliant acting from both of them. Even the bit parts, such as the landlord and the old woman were hilarious and unbelievably well developed for the short time they were on screen. And there was even a speech misquoted from the old series to keep me happy. Honestly, I can't find fault in this story, and in fact it's already my favourite Matt Smith episode, and after repeated viewing could be my favourite from the new series. I really can't praise it enough, and I hope we see more of this caliber in years to come.
5/5
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