I have resisted the urge to grade films by star or x/10 ratings and instead opted for what I call a recommendation scale. There are 4 states - Essential, Recommended, Average, and Avoid. These are purely my opinion and really only useful to people who have a similiar taste as me.
July 08
Death Proof (2007) - Tarantino's latest has all the dialogue and style you would expect. I still got that cultural cringe anytime Zoe Bell (as herself) was on screen, but nothing I couldn't overlook. Recommended
Kung Fu Panda (2008) - Solidly entertaining animated martial arts comedy. The door is open for a far superior sequel - it's a franchise with plenty of potential. Recommended
Venus (2006) - One of the more interesting British films I have seen lately. Peter O'Tool is great playing a veteran actor and his encounter with a teenage girl in a Pygmalion type story. Recommended
The Accidental Tourist (1988) - The Lawrence Kasdan stylings are very much of the eighties - twenty years on this approach comes of as being both artificial and melodramatic. Average
Sex and the City (2008) - Putting aside the shallow and vulgar nature of characters, the film itself is disjointed and plotless. I would like to give it the benefit of the doubt and assume it is a deliberate portrayal of the emptiness of materialism - but I don't know that this occurred to the writers. Average
Stripes (1981) - Bill Murray and Harold Ramis play a couple of life's drop outs who enter the army in this Ivan Reitman directed cult comedy from the early eighties. It's not particularly funny anymore, or cleverly written, but does showcase some great actors early in their careers. Average
Be Kind Rewind (2008) - Michel Gondry makes must see cinema and with this film he has brought to screen a clever homage to the act of film making itself. While not everything works in this Jack Black lead comedy - it is creative in every sense. Recommended
June 08
The Professionals (1966) - Good pacing, action and comedy balance make this one of the all time great westerns. Everything I love about the genre. Recommended
Domino (2005) - Tony Scott goes so far over the top in a style over substance action film that the result is almost incomprehensible. I'm not a Keira Knightley hater, but this was the most annoying narration I have ever heard in a film. Avoid
Lucky Number Slevin (2006) - This is a great little revenge flick with a big cast. But it's flawed, and a few of the cast bring baggage that ultimately drags down the overall effect. Still worth a look though. Recommended
21 (2008) - This film is a complete mess. Supposedly a fact-based story about six MIT students who got rich off card counting. A documentary would have been far more engaging than this contrived offering. Avoid
A Passage to India (1984) - The great David Lean's last film deals with colonization in India in the early 1920s. It falls short when attempting to evoke the mood and tension that are required - and you really feel every minute of the 163min runtime. Average
¿Qué he hecho yo para merecer esto!! (What Have I Done To Deserve This) (1984) - I'm still to find a film from Almodóvar that I didn't like. He captures life like no other director - and in this instance a dysfunctional family in Madrid that descend into an absurd situation comedy. Recommended
El Cid (1961) - Clocking in at over three hours this epic tale of Spanish hero, Rodrigo Diaz (Charlton Heston), still comes of pretty well despite the years. A great example of how Hollywood epics were once made.
Recommended
In The Shadow of the Moon (2007) - Remarkable documentary featuring surviving crew members from NASA's Apollo missions telling their story in their own words.
Recommended
May 08
Bloody Sunday (2002) - Director Paul Greengrass had a career breakthrough with this film dramatization of the Irish civil rights protest march on January 30, 1972. Shot without sentimentality and rendered in handheld documentary style that creates a genuine sense of realism. Recommended
Exils (2004) - A road movie from French writer/director Tony Gatlif captuiring a couple returning to their parents birthplace in Algeria. Nicely shot, but not enough to keep me fully engaged. Average
Waitress (2007) - OK, so I only watched this because Keri Russell has some strange appeal to me (I'm not alone on this). But this is a fun, quirky, and easy watching drama/comedy. All that, and I like pie. Recommended
Horton Hears a Who! (2008) - Captures the spirit and good humour of the Dr. Seuss book and one of the better films in the genre to come along in the past few years. Recommended
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008) - Like its three predecessors - it's all just contrived nonsense, but the action pulls you along and this time around the FX and action sequences take a big step up. There is a lot packed in, but the real reason to watch is simply to see the saga continue. Recommended
Eastern Promises (2007) - David Cronenberg continues his run of well crafted films that encapsulate his unique vision. This time a tale of Russian organized crime in London with Viggo Mortensen and Naomi Watts in lead. Recommended
The Painted Veil (2006) - By all accounts this is the best of the three versions of this "unhappily every after" story that have been committed to film. This remake, with Norton and Watts as leading couple, may well be a flawed epic but still presents a stirring portrayal of redemption. Recommended
Wristcutters: A Love Story (2006) - I like the concept - an afterlife for people who have committed suicide. It gets a little too absurdist by the end but I give it a recommendation for originality in the black comedy genre. Recommended
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007) - I don't think Brad Pitt has enough screen presence to fully pull off this role. In all other aspects this is a very engaging historical epic. Recommended
The Hottie and the Nottie (2008) - I had to see this for myself, and as suspected this is the film that exposes the IMDb rating system to be a farce. Within the genres she operates, Paris Hilton is actually an above average actor. This is not as bad as the last couple of terrible comedies I have seen such as Shrek 3 or Blades of Glory. Average
Mon meilleur ami (My Best Friend) (2006) - The reassuring French formula for comic drama is once again on display with Daniel Auteuil as lead. This effort is light but plenty entertaining. Average
Rush Hour 3 (2007) - I don't actually recall having seen the first two, but regardless this is just an average, altogether predictable and forgettable action film. Avoid
Dirty Pretty Things (2002) - A modern social commentary that explores the dark side of London's underground. Great ensemble cast and surreal atmosphere. Recommended
Iron Man (2008) - Robert Downey Jr. plays an unlikely action hero in a film that is a one of the better comic adaptations in recent years. You have to overlook a lot of unimaginative script diversions and formulaic stereotypes, but for the most part it is worth the ride. Recommended
April 08
The U.S. vs. John Lennon (2006) - A look at the post-Beatles Lennon as he becomes a New York citizen and antiwar protester. Where this documentary fails is in the selective (read: positive bias) nature of the facts about his life that are revealed. The portrait of the man is less interesting that he backdrop of the vietnam war, but at least the music is first class. Average
Taxi to the Dark Side (2007) - Alex Gibney's Oscar winning doco from 2007 takes an up close look at the torture that went on in Afghanistan, and in particular the series of events that lead to an innocent taxi driver killed in 2002. Recommended
Born Into Brothels: Calcutta's Red Light Kids (2004) - The story of Zana Briski's attempt to both document and help some of the children in Calcutta's red light district. I feel bad saying this because everyone was better off for her efforts, but I frequently had the uncomfortable feeling that she was taking advantage of these children. Average
No End In Sight (2007) - I'm on the verge of Middle East documentary fatigue - but they have all been brilliant and unlike Michael Moore, they seek honesty and truth. This one, narrated by Campbell Scott, traces the decisions and incompetences that have lead to failures in the war against terrorism. Recommended
Helvetica (2007) - This was a bit of a let down for me. I love typography, but Helvetica loses its direction very quickly and becomes an exercise in self indulgence by not bridging the gap to an audience outside of the design industry. Average
Jesus Camp (2006) - A jawdropping exposé on an evangelical summer camp for kids in Colorado. Knowing what we now know about Ted Haggard makes this all the more disturbing. So many great quotes: "At five I got saved because I just wanted more out of life." Recommended
Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience (2007) - A collection of Iraq war experiences - some told through animation, others by film or still photos. There are some great pieces here, and although the whole does not give the fresh insight it might have been hoping for, it does shed light on the soldier experience with integrity. Recommended
The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters (2007) - This is what happens when compulsive behavior grows into a community, Donkey Kong is added, and rivalry is amplified. The portrayal of Billy Mitchell has made him one of the all time great cinema villains. Recommended
Sicko (2007) - Michael Moore's attempt to indict the American healthcare system using his standard bag of tricks by revealing only facts that support his stance. There is an embarrassing lack of balance, many awkward scenes of manipulation, and no real solution offered. Average
Margot at the Wedding (2007) - Noah Baumbach writes and directs another uncomfortable family drama. This time, despite some great scenes, things come off looking like a pretentious film for depressives. Average
Passport to Pimlico (1949) - An English classic political satire about a Cockney London neighborhood. I don't find these Ealing Studios comedies to be a endearing as the English clearly did at the time, but they do capture an important period in history and worthwhile for that alone. Average
The Savages (2007) - A comedy drama about a brother and sister tasked with looking after their ailing father. OK, maybe you have to look hard to find the comedy - lets call it bittersweet. It's a great film that doesn't get bogged down in sentimentality. Recommended
Definitely, Maybe (2008) - A fluffy romantic comedy that is entirely watchable because it avoids many of the formulaic traps of the genre. However, the ending is surprising in that you expect a surprise, but the obvious still happens. Oh, and my general dislike of Rachel Weisz continues through this film. Average
Into The Wild (2007) - With Sean Penn's involvement I was naturally (and justifiably) skeptical that this story could be told without going OTT. But this is a beautiful film shot with sincerity and spirit, and captures the entirety of Chris McCandless's journey to live in the Alaskan wilderness. Recommended
Tonari no Totoro (My Neighbour Totoro) (1988) - Hayao Miyazaki's family fantasy classic with cute overload. The animation is first class, and not just for 1988. Recommended
Once (2006) - An unpretentious love story, set in Ireland, and told through music and an age old 'boy meets girl' narrative. Took out Oscar for Best Original Song. Essential
Atonement (2007) - The many comparisons with The English Patient are unfair as this film doesn't quite pull off the same heartfelt bond between leads (Knightley/McAvoy). But in all other aspects this is a film of quality and depth and a big achievement in UK cinema. Recommended
The Good Night (2007) - Very weak attempt to make something as evocative as Vanilla Sky. This is another waste of talent, and would have been a lot more compelling if Penélope Cruz had just sat in a chair reading the script. Average
The Kite Runner (2007) - How can a film so beautifully made carry no emotional weight. Such potential, and yet ends up a bland and manipulative display of Liberal guilt. You know a film has gone too far when you hear the violins playing, rather than feel them. Average
Le Scaphandre et le papillon (The Diving Bell and the Butterfly) (2007) - Julian Schnabel's very original interpretation of the true story of Elle editor Jean-Dominique Bauby after he suffers a paralyzing stroke. A visceral character study of the human spirit. Of course, life aint so bad if you've got Emmanuelle Seigner looking after you. Essential
Run Fatboy Run (2007) - Given the (mostly British) talent involved, this is ultimately a wasted effort. The comedy/drama ratio never feels balanced and too often it is reduced to obvious gags and plot cliches. Average
Cassandra's Dream (2007) - As a Woody Allen fan I really wanted to love this film - but the two leads (Colin Farrell and Ewan McGregor) are among my least favourite actors, and in this film they are both terrible. The Philip Glass score was a nice touch, but in all other aspects this is a let down after the great Match Point. Average
Michael Clayton (2007) - Just when you think the class action lawsuit movie genre has been thrashed out, something a little more gritty and compelling turns up. Watch and enjoy. Now, close your eyes ... imagine if Tom Cruise (in Collateral mode) was playing the lead. That's the difference between good and great, and why Clooney will never be enough. (You can open you eyes now). Recommended
Death at a Funeral (2007) - Not a great year for British ensemble comedies. Here is another example of an unfunny black comedy that falls flat and is nothing more than a couple of amusing situation gags. Average
Paranoid Park (2007) - Let me start by suggesting that Gus Van Sant is the most important director working today. This is the work of a master - a fluid, mesmerizing and finely balanced look at disaffected youth. Essential
Dan in Real Life (2007) - So many great romantic comedies in 2007. Not everything works here, but the result is still a chick flick that guys can get equal enjoyment from - so this is a rare gem. Juliette Binoche also shows her range in this comedic role. Recommended
4 luni, 3 saptamâni si 2 zile (4 Months, 3 Weeks & 2 Days) (2007) - Not exactly the feel good movie of the year. This is a bleak portrayal of a young woman helping a friend through a black market abortion in communist Romania. The realism is dark, unsettling and relentless, told through many long still takes that force you to confront the situation as a helpless voyeur. Essential
If... (1968) - Malcolm McDowell's film debut captures what it was like to be young and rebellious in Britain in the late 60's. It's a brilliant prelude to A Clockwork Orange. Essential
Coming Home (1978) - One of the better anti-war films that captures the post-vietnam malaise. With Oscar winning acting leads, this is a well crafted film dealing with the issue of wounded soldiers and the emotional impact of returning from war. Recommended
Lars and the Real Girl (2007) - Quirky chick-flick drama. I find that male characters clearly written by a woman look like artificial emotional puppets to me. But putting that aside, this is not a bad film and that stupid blow up doll did make me cry. Recommended
Thursday's Children (1954) - Oscar winning documentary short about a school for deaf children. Very well shot and beautifully captures a life affirming moment in time. Recommended
Brighton Rock (1947) - Classic Richard Attenborough led gangster thriller. This is British film of a bygone era that shows it is more than capable of keeping up with those of a similar genre in the US. Recommended
Julia (1977) - Jane Fonda plays an American women trying to help her childhood friend in Nazi Germany. I could not connect with the plight of Fonda's chararcter - seemed a little melodramatic given all the other things going on during the war. Took out the BAFTA in 1979. Average
Gone Baby Gone (2007) - It encouraging to know that there are still some smart and thought provoking thrillers coming out of Hollywood. This is my kind of entertainment and if there is a flaw in this film, it is how much of what you have seen could really happen. Essential
No Country for Old Men (2007) - I can hardly believe it's been 12 years since Fargo. If there is one thing that 'No Country' shows, it is how far the Coen brothers have matured, and that they are still capable of greatness. Essential
The Reaping (2007) - Every now and then I like to watch a movie that I know will be terrible, just to put my other viewing patterns in perspective. Double Oscar winner, Ms Swank, should be firing her agent over this fiasco. Avoid
Shrek the Third (2007) - Even from the start you could tell this was going to be a stale and lazy sequel. What a colossal failure to grasp the wealth of possibilities this material presents. Avoid
Feux rouges (Red Lights) (2007) - Described by some as a French "Eyes Wide Shut". There is a lot going on psychologically here, and I'm not sure it all computes in my head. The kind of film that has you diving for the IMDB forums for an answer. Recommended
March 08
There Will Be Blood (2007) - I never thought Paul Thomas Anderson had an epic film of this kind of genre in him. But this is the highest rated film on IMDB in the last 5 years - and a must see! Essential
Nathalie... (2003) - Unless you're an Emmauelle Beart fan (like myself) then this French drama is probably not going to hold your interest. Even though I anticipated the twist from the start, the interplay between characters was very engaging. Recommended
A State of Mind (2004) - A rare insight into life in North Korea as British documentarians follow two young girls as they prepare for the Mass Games, the world's largest choreographed gymnastics performance. Recommended
Nicotina (2003) - A bit of a lightweight Mexican attempt at a gangster crime flick - clearly influenced by Guy Ritchie and Tarantino. Enjoyable watch for the most part, but tries a little too hard and comes off contrived. Average
Sorstalanság (Fateless) (2005) - A powerful Hungarian film centering on a young boy who is put through the Nazi forced labour camps in World War II. Highly recommended for it's alternate angle on the events and strong performances. Recommended
5x2 (2004) - François Ozon creates another masterpiece with this look into five stages in the romance between a woman and a man. The twist is that the stages are played in reverse. Recommended
The Contender (2000) - Oscar nominations for acting in this film say more about the lack of competition in 2000. This is just a political thriller that starts with promise but fails to deliver, and ends up a mess of moral hypocrisy. Average
Breach (2007) - The true story of Robert Hanssen who sold secrets to the Soviets. This is a quality cat-and-mouse political thriller. Recommended
Flags of Our Fathers (2006) - Without doubt, this film further establishes Clint Eastwood as a director of impeccable class. The scenes on the island are the best you will see in war cinema. But the biggest criticism of the film, that cannot be said about his superior 'Letters From Iwo Jima', is that it failed to deliver on the emotional impact. Recommended
Ratatouille (2007) - Setting aside the unparalleled brilliance of the animation (the only reason I add my recommendation) - the question remains: Should this film be on the IMDB Top 250? It's not a film that carries its weight, and if it's not going to be meaningful, then it should at least be funny. Recommended
February 08
Trust (1990) - I struggled to see how Hal Hartley, in what is likely his best known film, has achieved cult status. This was kinda boring and not the sort of film I could recommend to anyone I know. Average
L' Uccello dalle piume di cristallo (Bird with the Glass Feathers ) (1970) - The directorial debut of acclaimed Italian thriller master Dario Argento. Great piece of early 70s cinema and has even aged better than many of his later works such as Suspiria. Recommended
Twin Town (1997) - Worth a look as an example of a Welsh black comedy. However, ultimately not a great film and sorely lacking in style and originality. Average
Nancy Drew (2007) - I totally understand what this film was trying to achieve with the retro morals (and clothing). How refreshing to discover a family film that doesn't feel the need to condescend its viewers. Emma Roberts was adorable. Recommended
Juno (2007) - Jason Reitman's follow up to the also great Thank You For Smoking is a winner thanks to the delivery of a never-ending stream of sharp lines by a very well cast Ellen Page. Essential
Les Rivières Pourpres (Crimson Rivers) (2000) - I was drawn into this French conspiracy thriller by the cast of Jean Reno and Vincent Cassel. It's seems to be more complicated than it needs, but an entertaining watch. Average
Live Free or Die Hard (2007) - I was only interested in the FX here, but was curious to see if any of the budget was spent on a worthwhile script. It wasn't. Bruce Willis is the only redeeming factor here. The rest is just tired geek porn cliches.
Average
A Mighty Heart (2007) - This is the first film from Michael Winterbottom that I haven't enjoyed. I didn't feel connected with the characters or their plight. Strange, because I clearly remember the moment I heard that Daniel Pearl had been murdered and the video affected me greatly. Average
C.R.A.Z.Y. (2005) - I recommend this film not because it is great (it's clearly flawed and muddled in places), but because there are enough brilliant moments of sight and sound to make it a cult classic. Nice job on acquiring the music rights! Recommended
Old Joy (2006) - I'll admit, it was long after the credits roll before I understood the significance of this minimalist story about two old friends who reunite for weekend camping. Recommended
Hannibal Rising (2007) - Without doubt this is the least interesting of the Silence of the Lambs sequels. I actually preferred to use my imagination about Lecter's past than to have this embarrassingly convoluted story clumsily adapted for screen. Avoid
Number 23 (2007) - No emotional impact and and script so transparent you see it 23 miles off. Typical random offering from Joel Schumacher. Avoid
Dumbo (1941) - One of the finest animated films ever made by Disney. OK that dream sequence was clearly a time filler, but all the elements were there. Recommended
The Yes Men (2003) - Anti-corporate activists travel around conferences impersonating members of the WTO. Not funny, and I just felt uncomfortable the whole time. Avoid
The Simpsons Movie (2007) - Enjoyable feature length comedy, but I was disappointed to find that the change in format to the big screen doesn't add anything new. There are better written episodes in some of the earlier seasons. Average
January 08
Double vie de Véronique, La (The Double Life of Veronique) (1991) - Did Kieslowski ever make a film that wasn't simply brilliant? Even when you don't know what is really going on, there is still so much to admire. Essential
Smokin' Aces (2006) - Watchable, yes, but basically a forgettable action flick with stylized violence and a nice ensemble cast. Average
Scenes of a Sexual Nature (2006) - UK film following couples walking around a park talking about relationships. I think this is a film for old people that need to feel they have sophisticated taste. Avoid
Be Cool (2005) - Frivolous, but entertaining sequel to Get Shorty. It's a wasted effort from such a stellar cast. Average
Bosque de sombras (The Backwoods) (2005) - Borrowing so heavily from Straw Dogs and Deliverence that there is nothing original to appreciate in this Gary Oldman lead film, set in the backwoods of rural Spain. Average
Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (2006) - I'm a Will Ferrell fan, but this (like the much worse Blades of Glory) is a weak satire that simply does not deliver on its potential. Average
Going My Way (1944) - Classic heartwarming Bing Crosby film about a new priest that shows up at the parish of a crusty old priest. Swept the Oscars in 1945. Recommended
A Good Year (2006) - With Ridley Scott directing and Russell Crowe in lead I already knew this would be a film I wouldn't enjoy. It's an above average formulaic romantic comedy - just not for me. Average
McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971) - With Robert Altman at the helm, this western starring Warren Beatty and Julie Christie is close to perfection. Beautiful winter location, emotionally deep script and a Leonard Cohen soundtrack. Essential
Europa Europa (1990) - A boy in Nazi Germany, trying to conceal that he is Jewish, joins the Hitler Youth. Compelling viewing and based on a real life account. Recommended
La Battaglia di Algeri (The Battle of Algiers) (1966) - Gritty documentary style depiction of the events that occurred during Algerian revolution. First class historical drama. Essential
L' Année dernière à Marienbad (Last Year At Marienbad) (1961) - You never really know what's going on in this surrealist Alain Resnais film, but everything is so deliberate and Avant Garde that you can't help but appreciate the haunting nature of his vision. Recommended
Leben der Anderen, Das (The Lives of Others) (2006) - A flawlessly crafted political thriller which expertly examines East Germany's secret police from the perspective of an increasingly disillusioned Stasi officer. Essential
Waco: The Rules of Engagement (1997) - Almost 15 years on from the seige and massacre at Mount Carmel and this documentary seems just as relevant today as it examines the sickening lies covering up abhorrent crimes against humanity by law enforcement. Recommended
December 07
Secondhand Lions (2003) - A coming-of-age story that can't decide whether it wants to be something more than a simple family adventure. Simply doesn't captivate. Average
A Scanner Darkly (2006) - Richard Linklater doing Philip K Dick. It's not a genre I get excited about, but an interesting watch - I'm sure fans of both Linklater and Dick will love it. Average
28 Weeks Later (2007) - Plays on the same fears that made the first (28 Days Later) such a unique and scary viewing experience. Though not as good overall, this is still another rare great of the zombie horror genre. Recommended
Oliver Twist (2005) - Here is the proof that Sir David Lean was an absolute genius - because 50 years ago he made a far superior version in every aspect. That's not to say Polanski failed here - he just didn't make a memorable Dickens classic. Average
Hors de prix (Priceless) (2006) - Plenty of French, but not enough farce in this quirky romantic comedy. A good move for Audrey Tautou, who needed this to rebound from the appalling Da Vinci Code. Average
Keep the River on Your Right: A Modern Cannibal Tale (2000) - A documentary look at the life of a retired gay anthropologist, Tobias Schneebaum, who revisits the native cultures he studied in his youth. Not a well made film, but a fascinating insight. Recommended
Mrs. Palfrey at the Claremont (2005) - This is the sort of quaint, low-key society drama that could only come out of England. A look into the friendship between an elderly lady and a sensitive young man. Recommended
Play Misty For Me (1971) - Clint Eastwood's directorial debut is an interesting psycho thriller which could be considered a classic of the genre, but has also not aged too well. Average
Judgment at Nuremberg (1961) - The Stanley Kramer directed historical drama about the trial of four Nazi judges for war crimes. One of the best courtroom dramas committed to film with expert performances and direction. Essential
The Illusionist (2006) - I had high hopes for this Edward Norton headed mystery thriller. Could have been something special were it not for a "twist" so absurdly obvious it makes the last two-thirds drag. Average
Lone Star (1996) - John Sayles has created a wholly satisfying Texas border county crime drama that is going to reward repeat viewings. Essential
I Am a Sex Addict (2005) - Autobiographical comedy about an annoying, self obsessed, recovering sex addict whose story is genuinely tedious and uninteresting. Avoid
The Science of Sleep (2006) - I might have expected more from Michel Gondry after "Eternal Sunshine", but the lower budget here has led to a quirky film that is messy in places, but honest in its intent. Recommended
November 07
Factotum (2005) - Matt Dillon is slightly miscast in the lead role of this Charles Bukowski based film about a wandering writer scraping by in life. There's a lot to like, but the sum total isn't something I would recommend. Average
The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser (1974) - Remarkable film from Werner Herzog about the mysterious life of Kaspar Hauser who suddenly appeared in Nuremberg in 1828, barely able to speak or walk, after being held captive his entire life. Essential
Den (2001) - Oh my, this is the lowest budget film I have seen in a looong time. Think Saw on a shoestring. Oddly watchable despite some very uneven performances. Average
Manderlay (2005) - Lars von Trier's controversial followup to Dogville is an equally challenging and fascinating study in film performance. I'm already looking forward to the final chapter in the trilogy. Recommended
The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976) - Clint Eastwood directs and stars in this iconic revenge western from the 70s. Recommended
The Saddest Music in the World (2003) - A 1930s period musical about a beer baroness that organizes a contest to find the saddest music in the world. A contender for one of the most visually inventive films I have seen in a while. Recommended
Oliver Twist (1948) - Regarded as the best screen adaptation of the Dickens classic. The brilliant vision of David Lean at his creative peak - this is one of the best looking B&W films you will see. Essential
Sunshine (2007) - The Danny Boyle and Alex Garland team return, this time creating a tale of a manned space mission to restart the sun. I'm not a sci-fi fan but found it thought provoking and, despite under developed characters, a very entertaining watch. Recommended
Cabaret (1971) - I can see what the movie is trying to say, but the method of delivery, not to mention how annoying Liza Minnelli is, really does not suit my sensibilities. Average
Umberto D. (1952) - One of the great films of Italian cinema and a key release from the neo-realist period. A retired civil servant trying to maintain dignity during the final chapter of his life and the challenges he faces. Recommended
Bullitt (1968) - Back when action films had a lot more integrity and stunts were done the hard way there was this Steve McQueen classic action thriller. Thirty years on this is just retro cool in every way. Essential
Meet Me in St. Louis (1944) - I'm really not in the target audience for this 1900s set family musical, but it's a quaint portrait of Americana and a great performance from Judy Garland made it a fun watch. Recommended
No. 2 (2006) - It's always a pleasant surprise to catch a film set in your home city that doesn't make you cringe. Toa Fraser's No. 2 is a great cultural vignette with some nice performances, but is unfortunately lacking a compelling storyline to take it to the next level. Average
October 07
Mia aioniotita kai mia mera (Eternity and a Day) (1998) - Theo Angelopoulos's deliberately paced Golden Palm winner is meandering but intriguing tale of a dying man's last days and search for the meaning of tomorrow. Recommended
Colour Me Kubrick (2005) - The true..ish tale of Alan Conway, the conman who impersonated Stanley Kubrick for a period during the nineties. It's a mostly enjoyable watch but nothing exceptional. Average
The Wind That Shakes The Barley (2006) - Ken Loach's Palme d'Or winner is a sympathetic look at Irish Republicans circa 1920 and a potent anti-war telling of a violent history. Recommended
The Big Country (1958) - Gregory Peck stars in this grand western romance - a supposed left-wing allegory for the Cold War. Solid all-round performances and an epic climax. Recommended
Letters from Iwo Jima (2006) - I'm a big Clint Eastwood fan, and this is his most recent Oscar nominated directorial effort, and companion piece to Flags of our Fathers. A great contribution to the genre. Recommended
The Devil Wears Prada (2006) - A real mixed bag of good/bad moments that never amounts to much. Loved the industry satire but the flimsy relationship stories were unbearable. Average
Idiocracy (2006) - A light comedy from Office Space director Mike Judge that was never going to be a masterpiece but manages to entertain thanks to its quirky future based concept. Average
Nochnoy Dozor (Nightwatch) (2004) - Russias #1 box-office movie of all time. Visually this is a must see fantasy/horror event even if the story doesn't captivate in the same way. Recommended
The History Boys (2006) - It's been a while since I've caught up with a great British film and this is a little gem with great character casting and an engaging and intelligent screenplay. Recommended
Children of Men (2006) - A startling portrait of a world set a near future not that inconceivable from today. It's well established that I'm not a science fiction enthusiast, but despite this films many flaws, Alfonso Cuarón has created a very watchable film. Recommended
The Prestige (2006) - Christopher Nolan's captivating tale of magic and rivalry starring the always good Christian Bale and the always "just ok" Hugh Jackman. By sleight of hand it has found itself in the IMDB top 100 - it's good, but not that good. Recommended
Superman Returns (2006) - Bryan Singer strikes out in this fairly generic action flick. It's not a genre I particularly enjoy - perhaps just one for the fans. Average
A Cock and Bull Story (2005) - Michael Winterbottom films the unfilmable novel. Steve Coogan is great as usual and the inside jokes and banter is delivered in deadpan style making for a fascinating take on the film industry. Recommended
The Fountain (2006) - Darren Aronofsky finally delivers after a 6 year lag from the brilliant Requiem for a Dream. Critics were divided over his story spans over one thousand years, with three parallel stories. Beyond all the obscurity and pretentiousness is an important cinematic release. Recommended
Gothika (2003) - Weak psychological ghost thriller that repeatedly insults you with cliches and over-acted absurdity. The continuing decline of Halle Berry since Monster's Ball. Avoid
The Curse of the Jade Scorpion (2001) - It's minor Woody, but still an entertaining crime caper romp. Recommended
Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny (2006) - An exercise in taking two highly entertaining people, Jack Black and Kyle Gass, and churning out a barely watchable bore of a film. Avoid
Conversaciones con mamá (Conversations with Mother) (2004) - Argentinean comedy/drama about an evolving and existential Mother-Son relationship. Recommended
Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore (1974) - Early Scorsese drama about a recently widowed woman and her young son who hit the road to try and make a new start in life. Recommended
In Cold Blood (1967) - The seemingly overrated, but still excellent, crime thriller based on the acclaimed Truman Capote book. Robert Blake is ironically brilliant playing a brutal murderer. Recommended
The Man from Laramie (1955) - I've never liked James Stewart in westerns, and I don't agree with his reasons for revenge in this film, but setting this aside it's a solid tale that is true to the genre. Recommended
Clerks II (2006) - Kevin Smith has been living off the success of his first (pretty good) Clerks movie for far too long with only a string of average films that never reach his potential. But he has returned to some level of form with this remake. It's not outstanding but still a fun watch. Average
Superbad (2007) - The Seth Rogen & Evan Goldberg comedy writing duo are back with a most hilarious comedy that is currently taking a lot of flak for breaking the IMDB Top 250. It's immensely entertaining but far from perfect. Recommended
Dreamgirls (2006) - I'm still no closer to understanding the American fascination with musicals. However, this one is beautifully made - with great songs and atmosphere but a little lack of soul in the story had me checking my watch all too often. Average
September 07
Borat (2006) - I could write all day about how deeply unfunny this film is. If it were an attack on Political Correctness, or a satire on the American life, I would have been laughing along. The idea is brilliant, but the execution just seems to highlight Sacha Baron Cohen's misanthropic and disrespectful outlook on humanity. Average
Tengoku to jigoku (High and Low) (1963) - Akira Kurosawa's magnificent crime thriller about a kidnapping and clever hunt for the perpetrator. Essential
Kenny (2006) - This Australian mockumentary about a portable toilet repairman is a surprisingly great (and uplifting) viewing despite a scattered narrative and editing sequence. Recommended
Reno 911!: Miami (2007) - I have largely enjoyed the series when i have managed to catch it, however this movie spin-off is a contender for the worst of the year. Avoid
The Trials of Darryl Hunt (2006) - A documentary that follows a wrongly convicted man in a brutal rape/murder case where justice was overlooked by way of a wave of racism. Recommended
Hollywoodland (2006) - A good but not great look at the mystery surrounding the death of George Reeves, TV's Superman. Average
Tora! Tora! Tora! (1970) - Often referred to as the definitive film depiction of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Although some effects are dated the film remains a fitting tribute to both sides of this historical event. Recommended
Pygmalion (1938) - The classic George Bernard Shaw play has been made for the screen around a dozen times but this is regarded as the best. The 'makeover' movie that was well ahead of its time. Recommended
Shortbus (2006) - You could easily be mistaken for thinking this film about the graphic sex lives of half a dozen New Yorkers is just a gimmick. But beyond the deliberately over the top visual scenes is a dark comedy of great relevance. Recommended
Bourne Ultimatum (2007) - Currently sitting at an undeserved #76 on the IMDB Top 250, this intellectually uninvolved followup may be a fast paced ride, but it's on a road to dullsville. Average
Everything is Illuminated (2005) - I'm still trying to figure out why I wasn't impressed by what appears to be a great story. I'm going to blame Elijah Wood - he's just annoying - and the emotional weight of the film is never carried by the performance. Average
The Bandwagon (1953) - The classic musical comedy with Fred Astaire in the lead. I haven't yet built up an appreciation for the genre but it was a worthwhile watch to see an icon of bygone cinema. Average
The Good German (2006) - Soderbergh falls short in this attempt to pay tribute to the post war films of the 40's and 50's. Complete with vintage B-movie processing I can't help but feel it could have been so much more with a better composed ending and a cast rethink. Average
Art School Confidential (2006) - Terry Zwigoff's follow up to 'Bad Santa' is unfortunately not up to his 'Ghost World' game - I really wish it was because the material had all the potential. Still a great watch despite its flaws. Average
August 07
The Aristocrats (2005) - More of a curiosity than anything else. One hundred "superstar" comedians reflect on the same joke made famous from Vaudeville days. Average
Kung Pow! Enter the Fist (2002) - Bizarre Steve Oedekerk acted/directed spoof the martial arts genre. Might be worth a look for something completely different, but very juvenile, and more often that not, unfunny. Average
American Dreamz (2006) - Somehow I got it in my head that this might be a film worth watching. Fails to deliver the message it really wanted to - a situation exacerbated by a horribly miscast line up. Average
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005) - I'm not a fan of the genre, but regardless this one appears to be strictly for the kids as the acting and effects are both horribly artificial and pretentious. Average
Mar adentro (The Sea Inside) (2004) - Why would you want to put yourself through the emotional anguish of a real-life inspired film about a man's struggle for euthanasia? I've been putting off seeing this for a couple of years for this reason, but this Alejandro Amenabar, Oscar winning foreign film is simply brilliant. Essential
Hot Fuzz (2007) - Somehow this film has amassed a massive following, putting it currently at #151 on the IMDB top 250. It's a great example of British humour, but it never transcends the genre. I guess I just expected more. Recommended
For Your Consideration (2006) - The usual cast are all back in this latest offering from Christopher Guest. Unfortunately it never matches the wit found in his earlier mockumentary films. Average
Le Couperet (The Ax) (2005) - Great little subversive French comedy about a man who eliminates potential threats to a future job prospect. Recommended
Suspiria (1977) - Dario Argento's classic of the fantasy horror genre. 30 years on it comes across as a little over stylised and with a few too many unintentionally funny moments - which is why I recommend checking it out! Recommended
Ghost Rider (2007) - In fairness to this Nicolas Cage led comic adapted action fantasy bomb - I really expected worse. Avoid
BASEketball (1998) - Painfully difficult David Zucker comedy with Southpark's Parker and Stone in lead roles. Avoid
The Good Shepherd (2006) - The De Niro directed CIA story as viewed through one man's (Damon) life. An all star cast in a great historic thriller. Recommended
John Tucker Must Die (2006) - In my defense, I saw this on a bus in Peru and had no choice about it. Everything is obvious and nothing is funny - but it made the ride fun. Average
Just Like Heaven (2005) - Kind of lame romantic comedy, but thanks to Reese Witherspoon it's cute in places and therefore not a complete waste of time. Average
Black Snake Moan (2006) - I can imagine this is a film that would divide a lot of critics due to it's content and the way certain action are chosen to be portrayed. It's hard to know how much is intentional comedy and where things are meant to be taken seriously. Putting that aside, it was a fun life affirming trip. Recommended
El Laberinto del fauno (Pan's Labyrinth) (2006) - Even though I don't like the fantasy genre (and found the lack of a protagonist an issue) this is a worthwhile watch for the attention to detail on the visual effects alone. Recommended
Disturbia (2007) - Vertigo inspired teen thriller about a teen living under house arrest who becomes convinced his neighbor is a serial killer. Nice bit of fun. Recommended
Derailed (2005) - An all too predictable, ill-cast and poorly scripted thriller with Clive Owen and Jennifer Aniston playing a couple who have an affair and the blackmail that results. Average
The 40 Year Old Virgin (2005) - While not as great a Judd Apatow's followup film 'Knocked Up', the humor and timing is well executed and Steve Carell was the perfect choice for lead. Recommended
Wild Hogs (2007) - It's the kind of film I would only watch if I was stuck on a plane with nothing else to do. Which is what happened, and I was entertained but not enthralled by this star studded nostalgia pic about suburban biker wannabes. Average
A Fei zheng chuan (Days of Being Wild) (1991) - Another beautiful and hypnotic vision from director Wong Kar Wai. Set in 1960's Hong Kong - a tale of searching for an intimate connection. Essential
July 07
Cypher (2002) - Sci-fi spy thriller from 'Cube' director Vincenzo Natali. Some interesting action and plot development but sadly doesn't hold enough interest throughout. Average
Cheaper By The Dozen (2003) - Mildly amusing Steve Martin family comedy. Ultimately a wasted effort given the potential of the premise. Average
Winchester 73 (1950) - A Western that follows the travels of Winchester rifle as it gets traded and passed between various characters. I've never though James Stewart suits the genre, but putting this aside this is a very human tale that expertly depicts the life and times. Recommended
Boksuneun naui geot (Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance) (2002) - The first in Chan-wook Park's trilogy (which includes Oldboy) is a fascinating study of vengeance. Well crafted with rich and lush cinematography. Recommended
The Thin Blue Line (1988) - The celebrated Errol Morris documentary that solved a murder case. This landmark of the genre, featuring a Philip Glass score, evokes an eerie atmosphere and confronts the stark reality of an innocent man on death row. Essential
House of Wax (2005) - A remake in name only of the Vincent Price original. It's everything you would expect from a teen horror featuring Paris Hilton and probably shouldn't be too harshly regarded given it plays by all the rules of the horror genre. Average
Sione's Wedding (2006) - It's not hard to suggest that this is the best comedy film ever made in New Zealand, because there hasn't been one that doesn't make you cringe in decades. But I really think Samoa deserves all the credit here - the humour, acting and music is all good fun (and the presence of four Miss Samoa's certainly helps). Recommended
Sommarnattens leende (Smiles of a Summer's Night) (1955) - Ingmar Bergman's tale about the sport of love. Great risque humour and dialogue, and Bergman expertly knows just how far to push it. Recommended
Knocked Up (2006) - Other comedies could learn a lot from the pace and delivery (pun intended) of this movie. Seth Rogen is great but the real success lies with the simplicity of the main theme and its ability to mirror the modern relationship. Essential
Rocky Balboa (2006) - It was all far too contrived for my liking. No doubt Stallone was was sincere with his intent, but this is a movie that did not need to be made. Avoid
School for Scoundrels (2006) - Very lightweight comedy starring Jon Heder and Billy Bob Thornton. It merely passes the time with jokes and situation comedy that fails to amuse. Avoid
The Ringer (2005) - Juvenile and unfunny politically incorrect film about a man who rigs the Special Olympics to gain money for him and his uncle. Avoid
Shooter (2007) - Mark Wahlberg plays the action hero in another "plot to kill the president" thriller. It's actually highly watchable and a lot of fun. Recommended
Paris, je t'aime (2006) - A total of 18 short films from different leading directors about love in Paris. It's a difficult and disjointed watch and I lost interest in places. Alexander Payne’s segment blew the rest away. Average
Zodiac (2007) - David Fincher's take on the notorious Zodiac serial killer. Fascinating viewing and Fincher's visual style and direction is at his usual best. Recommended
Night at the Museum (2006) - Fun and imaginative family adventure flick with Ben Stiller in lead. Multi-leveled comedy but aimed at the kids. Average
Life or Something Like It (2002) - Even setting aside that I have a low tolerance for Angelina Jolie, this was not a great film. It's a cliche ridden chick-filck with few genuine moments of humour. Avoid
Ocean's Thirteen (2007) - Steven Soderbergh returns to direct the third installment of the series. It's a fun watch but nothing new is on show and the 'smart and cool' factor is missing in action. Average
The Departed (2006) - Even with Scorcese at the helm I was worried this remake wouldn't match the original. But it ended up being everything you would expect from so much talent. Essential
Iluminados por el fuego (Blessed By Fire) (2005) - Argentinian film about the Fawklands/Malvinas and the aftermath of an affected soldiers life. Average
Blood Diamond (2006) - Hollywood does a nice job trivialising the conflict diamond trade in South Africa. Great actors in a juvenile storyline. Avoid
Just Married (2003) - Unbearable Askton Kutcher film about newlyweds whose marriage falls apart while on honeymoon. Avoid
The Queen (2006) - Excellent portrayal of the actions of the royal family around the time of Diana's death. Recommended
Hide and Seek (2005) - Deniro and Dakota Fanning thriller. You need to put up with a lot before it gets interesting and even then fizzles out into nothing original. Average
Transformers (2007) - For the first time in his career, Michael Bay has shown that a film with non-stop action, ground breaking FX, and great humour, doesn't need character development or a credible storyline. A must see on the big screen. Essential
Hostel (2005) - Backpackers in Eastern Europe find out they are part of a macabre game. Basically a low brow soft porn slasher flick. Avoid
The Motorcycle Diaries (2004) - The poetic journey of a young Che Guevara discovering himself as he ventures across South America. Superbly acted and directed. Recommended
The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada (2005) - Tommy Lee Jones hits on a winning western adventure formula. From writer Guillermo Arriaga (Babel, 21 Grams). Recommended
Wallace & Gromit in The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005) - Another winning stop motion film from Nick Park & Co. Amongst the best in the genre. Recommended
Hustle and Flow (2005) - Fascinating story of the rise of a hip hop star and his redemption. Powerful, entertaining and engaging. Recommended
February 07
Joyeux Noel (2005) - Rec. A retelling of the true events on Christmas Eve 1914 when the Germans, French, and Scottish made peace and played football. A little sentimental at times, but a good watch. Recommended
The Proposition (2005) - A great little unconventional Australian western written by Nick Cave. Bleak and unrelenting with a universally excellent cast. Recommended
Lacomb, Lucien (1974) - Odd French film set in occupied France, where the protagonist, a peasant who joins the gestapo after being rejected by the resistance, meanders through the remainder of the war becoming less endearing and more complex. Recommended
Stranger Than Fiction (2006) - An IRS auditor suddenly finds himself the subject of narration only he can hear - what a great premise for a film. And yes, the film delivers and has a lot of great moments. I'm a little bit over Maggie Gyllenhaal, but Will Ferrell is great as always. Essential
Walk The Line (2005) - After seeing this I was a little staggered to learn that Joaquin and Reese performed all of the songs themselves. Great performances doing justice to two music legends. The film is flawed however, there are long periods where nothing interesting happens, but overall worth a watch. Recommended
Primer (2004) - A sci-fi thriller that is low on budget but super high on delivering a smart and realistic time travel premise that will probably out smart you, but intrigue and challenge you long after it is over. Recommended
United 93 (2006) - A real time account of the events on United Flight 93, handled without overstatement or political and racial bias. Recommended
Inherit The Wind (1960) - A Stanley Kramer directed classic relling of the real-life 1925 court case involving a science teacher accused of the crime of teaching evolution. Recommended
Babel (2006) - An exploration of cultural clashes and the disconnects between people. Not my favourite of Inarritu's works, but it is one of the strongest film