Hans Zimmer

Anyone following me on Twitter will have just seen my stream of links to some of Zimmer's scores. It'd be safe to assume that I'm an adoring fan and that, without realising it, have been since I was four when The Lion King graced the cinematic screen.

It was only when I bought the soundtrack to 'Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron'  however, at 12, that I became consciously aware of Zimmer as the man behind the music. Of course, being 12, my knowledge remained fairly limited to just this one soundtrack.

But then as I became more and more of a film fan, particularly at University, I began to seek out the composer behind possibly my favourite song of all time. (Run Free: Spirit, Stallion of the Cimarron)

Some people might argue that Zimmer's work is repetitive and therefore boring. That all his music is, in essence, the same. This is a valid opinion, sure. But almost any musical legend can be immediately recognised, with songs barely differeing from each other. Same goes for authors or directors who have a particular style, a noticeable signature, that's present throughout their work. Zimmer's music is no different. He leaves his mark on everything he composes, and yet has successfully written for a hugely varied range of films; The Lion King and Inception are, after all, world's apart. 

If you've never heard a Zimmer composition, you must be Amish (in which case, what are you doing on the Internet?) There is no other way you could have avoided his music. The Dark Knight? Gladiator? The Lion King? Hannibal? The Simpsons Movie!? Trust me...you'll have heard something with his name on it.

Now I could continue to write this lengthy letter of luurve, but instead I'll just let Hans speak for himself with five of my all time favourite tracks. If none of my selection suits your taste, just YouTube him. I'll be amazed if you don't find at least one song you fall in love with.

'Time' - Inception

'Run Free'- Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron

(From what I remember, I think the sequence has been messed with a bit in this video, so don't pay too much attention to the visual)

'Rise' - The Dark Knight Rises ('Rise' is the last song on the list, number 15)

http://www.empireonline.com/news/story.asp?NID=34498

'This Land'- The Lion King

'Tennessee'- Pearl Harbour

Travel Plans

Plan 1. 
Do a 6 week Trek America trip.
Pros: You see 38 states, meet new people, do unforgettable things.
Cons: V.Expensive, could only do it in the heat of the summer and may melt.
Note: If I save like crazy & stand in front of an oven every day in practice for the sweltering heats, this is doable.

Plan 2.
Do a 3 week trip around Italy.
Pros: Own itinerary, family in Milan, the most delicious food ever known to man.
Cons: Can't really do it alone for fear of Naples, Italian men, mugging and lunatic drivers. Can't really do it with anyone else because of boyfriends/lack of funds/inability to commit.
Note: If I find someone willing (because a holiday to Italy requires such a strong sense of will...) this is really quite possible, and very exciting.

Plan 3.
Drive around Ireland & N.Ireland for a couple of weeks on a solo photography trip.
Pros: Photographer's paradise, can do it alone, probably cheapest of the three.
Cons: Will only have been driving for a year, potential for lonely boredom, no guarantee of decent weather.
Note: This all of course depends on me not wrecking my first ever car in my first year of driving. If I manage not to, it'll be a fun/interesting experiment to see how much I really can stand my own company...

So as always, I have too many plans and no way of following through on them all. What to do, what to do, what to do.... suggestions. Please. Further ideas welcomed.

Happy times

I'm a sucker for a bit of self pity. It's easy, it's comfortable, and it often involves Ben and Jerry's. But it's also boring, and annoyingly self indulgent. Feeling sorry for yourself doesn't make you feel better, doesn't help your state of mind, and in my case adds pounds in the form of Phish Food. I think I'd rather focus on the happy.

Don't panic. I'm not going to rant on the benefits of positive thinking, positive vibes, positive thoughts, positive affirmations, positive pregnancy tests... The leaders of this new age mumbo jumbo have made a lot of money taking you the long way round, on the motorway, through the roundabouts, behind the car park, over the level crossing, until they finally drag you into 'Happiness.' The shortcut? You know, THROUGH the car park? Don't be such a fucking martyr, and just BE happy!

How dare I say it's that easy!? It's important to stress, I am not judging those with severe depression, anxiety or other psychological challenges. I know people who have lost friends and family to depression, and it is no joking matter. My issue, is that anyone using a sad face in a text can diagnose themselves as 'depressed.' In this day and age, not having a date on a Friday night can spark major ice-cream binges and claims that 'life isn't worth living anymore.' The problem is, society (as soon as this word pops up, you know an important sociological topic is being debated....pfft.) has become far too accepting of this sort of behaviour; encourages it even through TV and Film. Sadness is expected. You're a robot until you've been vulnerable, ideally on a reality tv show in front of millions, and accepted that being sad, is good.

Bollocks.

Yes, everyone should have a good cry. Everyone does indeed get sad, and feels down on occassion. It's human emotion, and it happens. But for the love of Ben, Jerry and your expanding hips, stop bloody wallowing! Stop complaining! Stop blaming the world for your misfortune and, more often than not, your actions. If you're single and miserable, do something about it! Maybe stop being so controlling and expecting Mr Fucked-Up-But-Eligible-Grey to show up on your doorstep. Not getting a job? Re-asses! Get advice! Fix your CV, get experience, and stop posting how unfair your life is on facebook- employers will 'stalk' your page, and no one wants a moaner on staff.

I for one, am going to try and focus on the little slitherings of 'happy' that creep in, ever so subtly, into every single day. Today it was a really good drive. Yesterday, a particularly satisfying glass of cold diet coke. Tomorrow it might not be more than an inch of pink in the sky that manages to bring a small smile to my face.

There's plenty wrong with the world. I'm sure there's plenty wrong with your life, as well. But it is life. You are in fact living. It's easy to forget that when you're busy crying into your ice cream pot because once again, Friday night you're going nowhere and all the lights are changing, green to red.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWbrVWxW-7A

If you want it, come and get it. For crying out loud.

The Olympics

There's something very ironic about watching great athletes do what they do best, whilst lounging about on a comfortable sofa. Catholic guilt kicks in, and I feel like I should be rowing, swimming or... judo-ing? Instead I'm chilling out in pyjamas, cat on lap, box of Special K on standby.

Still, I like to think that while my body isn't experiencing any physical exertion, my subconscious is kicking into high gear and is being motivated as I sit. So that when I do eventually stand, perhaps I'll jog up the stairs instead of crawl. Maybe I'll jump over my coffee table- broken neck, optional- instead of strolling around it. And maybe, just maybe I'll make it out of the house and up the road to the corner shop.

But then again there really is no need to exert myself. I'm no Olympian.

Oh yeah, I have a blog.

I clearly have issues with commitment. The stacks and stacks of unfinished 'books' I've written are constant reminders that I'm not great at seeing things through, and which explain my significant absence from this little blogget. 

However, having abandoned my blog in February, it was nice knowing that when I returned I wouldn't find it had packed its suitcase and shacked up with some leggy blonde who knew how to treat it write (a little stupid wordplay, anyone?). The beauty of the internet ladies and gents; always there for you.

So in the interest of passing on useless information and keeping it short & sweet, here's a mini rundown of my last five months:

Slept.

Ate. 

Did some running. (The production kind, not the exercise kind)

Passed my driving test.

Went to the gym.

Stopped going to the gym.

Took photos.

Slept.

Sold at a number of car boot sales.

Re-painted furniture.

Put together furniture.

Decorated.

Slept.

Cheered on the Olympic Torch.

Stepped out of character.

Joined an agency. (Not of the sexy and/or dating variety)

Went on holiday.

Got brown.

Turned old. (Twenty One and Twelve months)

Got a job.

Won two pounds on a scratchcard.

Slept.

Which of those events was the most exciting, it's hard to tell. It's a toss up between the scratchcard win and sleeping I think.

Having now rediscovered my piece of internet estate, I'll hopefully be visiting more frequently and writing more words that (fingers crossed) form coherent sentences. Then again having said that, in the coming weeks/months I have to write countless personal statement drafts, officially apply for my PGCE, re-learn most of what was taught in English at school (what the hell is an adverb?), socialise (it's a hard life), sleep some more, take my pass plus driving course, get a car, take more photos and read Fifty Shades of Grey (let's see what the erotic fuss is all about, hmm?) If, after all of that, I manage to find time to write about doing all of that, then this will be where it happens. Stay tuned if you feel so pointlessly inclined.

Creative Writing Challenge

Stumble Upon is responsible for hours of procrastination and I LOVE IT. In my latest round of stumbling, I discovered this little creative challenge:

Today, we're heading to the dictionary for a creativity boost. Here's what I want you to do:
You're going to select six words and use them to write a story of less than 250 words. You will select your six words from:

• page 52, 11th word down
• page 111, 2nd word down
• page 144, 1st word down
• page 199, 9th word down
• page 255, 12th word down
• page 243, 6th word down

Now, that you have your six words, open the dictionary at random, close your eyes and select a word. That word will provide the subject of your story.

Use the first three words in your opening paragraph. The last three words may be sprinkled throughout the story.

So, with far more important things to be doing- like finding a job- I decided to accept this challenge instead. A 250 word piece of flash fiction is tricky enough, but add into the mix the most ridiculously random collection of words and you've got yourself quite a task. What I managed to come up with is by no means perfect, and I'm well aware that the end is slightly rushed, but with the words I found I'm pleasantly surprised with the results.

----

words: anisomeric, bargain hunter, blacklist, calcium chloride, caterwaul, checkroom.

subject: menopause

Standing on the roof of my high rise council estate, a few seconds away from eternal Catholic damnation, I contemplated my anisomeric existence.  Although there had been brief spells of promise, they had quickly dissolved in debts, blacklists, accusations and divorce. I had gone from being the perfect family man with a 60K payslip, to a regular car boot-er, desperately flogging my possessions to seasoned bargain hunters. And it had all started with the onset of my wife’s menopause.

June 2004. My wife’s 50^th surprise birthday party was supposed be getting underway in less than an hour. I was putting on my dinner jacket and practising my “our reservation’s at eight and we need to leave time to put our coats in the checkroom” speech, when I heard a horrendous caterwaul erupt from the bathroom.

“Jennifer!?”

“Who is she!?” came back the scream as she threw the door open, brandishing a bottle of fabric softner.

“What...?”

“Tell me or I swear to God I’ll drink this entire bottle!”

“I don’t...”

“Cationic Acrylate, Calcium Chloride Dihydrate... pretty sure it would kill me, don’t you think!?”

We never made it to the party. Her paranoia increased, I lost my job due to depression, and I was served divorce papers within the year. My wife's hormones had marked the start of my demise, even though I had talked her out of suicide.

And as I flew off the roof, I only wished she'd been there to talk me out of it too.

---

It's a bit of fun for anyone who considers themselves as 'having a way with the words.' Plus it's a great time waster that still manages to make you feel productive! If you feel like giving it a go, I'd love to see what you come up with so post it in the comments below :)

The Iron Lady (2012)

Main Cast: Meryl Streep, Jim Broadbent, Richard E.Grant, Anthony Head

Plot Summary: Suffering with dementia, one of England's most notorious Prime Ministers, Margaret Thatcher, looks back at her life.

The Good: - I will always find it hard to fault Meryl Streep. The woman's a phenomenal actress who completely immerses herself in her roles, including this one. For those who remember Thatcher, Streep's portrayal is eerily accurate. As my mum said, "sometimes you weren't sure if you were looking at Maggie or Meryl." It's all in the details, and Streep obviously did her research pre-film, bringing Thatcher's nuances to the screen in a captivating performance.

-The rest of the cast were also successful, and supported Streep's starring role well. Alexandra Roach as the young Margaret and Olivia Colman as Carol Thatcher, both played their parts with determination and precision, not to mention Broadbent who is always so lovely to watch. 

The Bad: - Overall, the story line was badly constructed and the general premise misguided. Choosing to show Thatcher as she is now, struggling with dementia, was a poor decision. Firstly, it's unfair on the living Thatcher, her friends and family. Secondly, it means focusing on a part of her life which is by no means the greatest, and which simply ends up highlighting the flaws of old age, rather than concentrating on the historical figure that Thatcher is. With 11 years in Parliament and many achievements (and failures) throughout, there was much more that the film could have considered.

-Although the use of flashbacks is an easy way to look at part of Thatcher's history, it meant the film was greatly lacking. The most famous aspects of Thatcher's leadership were only briefly shown and most were simply skimmed over. It seems a shame that when there is such a story to be told, it was wasted on flashbacks and images of an old lady talking to herself. 

Memorable Moment: -Prime Ministers Questions. A good example of where Streep excelled at portraying 'The Iron Lady.'

Score: 4/10

Verdict: Other than Streep's excellent impersonation, the film is very forgettable with a badly chosen focal point. If director Phillipa Lloyd wanted to make a film about dementia and old age, she needn't have pretended to make it about a living legend. If however she'd chosen to do a true biopic of Thatcher, the dementia and pathetic little old lady aspect was totally unnecessary. As someone who didn't know the extent of Thatcher's history going into the film, I learnt nothing having seen it. All 'The Iron Lady' succeeded in doing was reminding us how amaze-balls, Meryl Streep truly is. 

Christmas: Am I losing my touch?

In the immortal words of a festive music legend: IT'S CHRIIIIISTMAS.

Nearly, anyway.

It's no secret that I'm a Christmas fanatic. Come boxing day I fall into a deep depression with the knowledge that it's a whole year away. Sure, leftovers help ease the pain for a while, but they're only a small plaster over the gaping bullet wound that is the end of Christmas. And then while everyone else is mourning the end of summer ('oooh it's getting cold!!'), I'm growing more excited by the day at the prospect of jingle bells!

My love of the season probably isn't all that healthy. I mean, what does it say about me? I'm superficial, too focused on the shiny things in life instead of reality, too materialistic? Yes, yes, yes. I like the superficial silly things, I definitely prefer the shiny glitz to the boring grey of daily life, and I enjoy tangible joys. During the year I have to tone down these negative qualities and focus on the positive, but at Christmas? HA. I can go crazy and not feel guilty about it! I can get excited over finding a stray Santa decoration I'd forgotten existed. I can squeal when I find the tinsel and realise I have just the right length to decorate my entire room. And I can most definitely enjoy the over crowded, over stressed and over the top shopping experience. I love it all.

My favourite thing however, has failed to be effectively expressed in the John Lewis Christmas ad. There's been a fair amount of criticism over it- my main issue is that a kid that age is not going to be affording anything from John Lewis for his parents. They'll be lucky if they get a coat hanger shaped into something other than a coat hanger. But I understand the general idea behind it, because my genuinely favourite part of Christmas is the giving of presents. Now I know that's not what Christmas is about bla bla bla, and thank you Jesus for being born all those years ago, but I love that feeling you get when you know you've hit the present on the head. I've always considered myself quite the present giver, and that's because I analyse people for the few months in the lead up to Christmas. I listen a little more carefully to their stories, and amidst all the general crap that is chit-chat, I get ideas for their present. So when Christmas finally comes and Person A can tear open my expertly wrapped gift (most of my talents revolve around this season...), their reaction is totally worth the effort of paying that little bit more attention.

Which finally brings me to my point. I fear my skills haven't effectively been put to use this year. Usually around this time I'd have most of my presents sorted, with only a few loose ends needing to be tied up. That's not the case this year. I have a number of the smaller gifts, but I'm totally stuck on the biggies. Problem 1: A severe lack of funds. Despite the recent acquirement of a job (WEHEY) I am well into my overdraft. Not good. Problem 2: An even greater lack of ideas!! This is my field, my talent, my greatest advantage!! And yet I find myself having to ask people what they want. I never ask! I always find and fulfill a need that may not have even been known. But now here I sit, head in hands, begging the fat man in the red suit for inspiration.

Of course, I know none of it really matters. Christmas isn't about the presents, and my family don't care what's under the paper. But that's not the point! When I give a present it's not about the actual physical item, but the time, thought and effort that's gone into it. That's what I love giving, and that's what everyone appreciates receiving. This year I feel like there is no time (I can't believe it's December already...), my thinking hat isn't fulfilling it's job description, and I seem to be making no effort to fix the situation. This has left me feeling all a little overwhelmed. Of course it doesn't help that every time I think of a possible solution, I forget it before I have the chance to write it down. Dear Santa, this year I'd like a new brain please.

I'm hoping that as they did with all my essays, the ideas will start to flow with just enough time to spare. In the meantime I plan to go overboard on the Christmas music, write my Christmas cards, and enjoy the festivities. Because for all it's commercialism, money-making and present stress, 'tis the season to be jolly tra la la la la la la la la!!

The Lincoln Lawyer (2011)

Main Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Marisa Tomei, Ryan Phillippe, William H.Macy

Plot Summary: A defense attorney struggles with the moral and tangible implications of his job when he learns his latest client is practiced at beating the system.

The Good: - I was pleasantly surprised by McConaughey's performance! I've never been his biggest fan. His southern drawl in films such as How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days and Failure to Launch, doesn't leave you thinking of him as the most credible of actors. But watching The Lincoln Lawyer (and the day before that A Time to Kill- another good film to watch!) I've realised that he can be more than an annoying love interest. His portrayal of the somewhat sleazy and extremely resourceful lawyer, Mick Haller, who fears not being able to recognise innocence, is both truthful and captivating. McConaughey carries us along effortlessly, leaving us both rooting for and pitying Haller and his career.

-The plot is really quite interesting and reflective of a system many have issues with. The big lawyer question "Would you rather send an innocent man to jail, or let a guilty man go free?" is heavily present throughout. There are plenty of legal thrillers out there, and The Lincoln Lawyer sits comfortably and successfully among them.

The Bad: - As much as I enjoyed McConaughey, I despised Ryan Phillipe. Whilst the former managed to change my opinion of him, the latter did not. Phillipe is the same in ever film, no matter who he plays. His attempts at an intense stare, or the way his mouth awkwardly forms words just leaves me wanting to throw things at the screen. We all have our pet peeves, and he is definitely one of mine. Get him out of Hollywood. Please.

Memorable Moment: -Haller's "business meeting" with bikers in his "office"- his Lincoln car.

Score: 7/10

Verdict: If you're a fan of legal battles, lawyer mumbo jumbo, and any films that involve a courthouse, you'll get on well with The Lincoln Lawyer. A decent watch that might not change your life philosophy, but will certainly leave you feeling cinematically satisfied whilst perhaps having you question the legal system.

Precious: Based on the novel Push by Sapphire (2009)

Main Cast: Gabourey Sidibe, Mo'Nique, Paula Patton, Mariah Carey

Plot Summary: An illiterate, abused, over-weight, pregnant teen narrates her story as she tries to make a better life for herself.

The Good: - The cast. Every one of them was captivating; even Mariah Carey. But without a doubt Mo'Nique stood out. No wonder she won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. Her portrayal of the physically, verbally and emotionally abusive mother left me in awe. I don't ever remember hating a character so intensely whilst at the same time wanting to see more and more of her! She was, by far, my favourite element of the whole film, despite wanting to violently push her off her own tower block on more than one occasion. 

-Precious' way of escaping her horrific life is through her imagination, and her daydreams are handled brilliantly by the editing team. Integrated into the story seamlessly, the sparks of imagination appear when Precious is at her lowest. Whether it's a white woman's reflection in the mirror instead of her own, or a photograph of her mother saying loving things, these insights into Precious' psyche (as well as her own moving and heartbreaking narration) gives another emotional dimension to an already drastically sad story.

The Bad: - Certain moments drag out for a little too long, and therefore I was left with the feeling that the 109 minute film was perhaps a bit lengthy- I was ready for it to end half an hour before it did. 

-Although Gabourey Sidibe was excellent as Precious, it was sometimes quite hard to understand her. She is perfectly understood in the TV Series 'The Big C' (also brilliant by the way- check it out) and although I understand why she spoke the way she did for this character, I was constantly wanting her to speak up; I'm sure a lot of what she said was supposed to be profound and moving, but I didn't catch a lot of it!

Memorable Moment: -Precious' mother's speech in the Welfare office. Surprisingly touching.

Score: 7/10

Verdict: If for no other reason than to learn and be aware of how some people are forced to live, Precious should be seen by everyone. It's a real eye opener, and a teenager's life of abuse interwoven with her dreams of a better life is painfully sad and hard hitting. At it's most basic, Precious is a comment on people's capabilities for bad and good, and more than that it manages to comment on society as a whole without ever seeming preachy. Definitely worth a watch.

Eat Pray Love (2010)

Main Cast: Julia Roberts, James Franco, Javier Bardem

Plot Summary: Feeling stuck and trapped in New York, Liz Gilbert (Roberts) sets off on a trip around the world to try and find that elusive 'missing piece' in her life.

The Good: - As Roberts' character tries to 'find herself,' we are treated to locations, cultures, people and food that aren't American! Her journey takes her to Italy, India and Bali, and in every destination we are exposed to something a little different. Something not so Hollywood.

- Roberts is a very consistent actress, and her performance in Eat Pray Love is just as reliable as in all her previous endeavors. Perhaps not Oscar worthy, but an easy watch none the less.

The Bad: - It's all a little stereotypical. The over the top Italians, the spiritual and traditional Indians, and...well, I'm not aware of Bali's stereotype, but I'm sure it was in there somewhere.

- Liz Gilbert's decision to upend her life and do something different and exciting, left me with the strongest, and most unrealistic urge to do so myself. It's highly frustrating wanting to escape a rut without the proper means to do so, and even more frustrating having to watch someone else do it.

- The entire film from start to finish was mediocre. Nothing particularly jumped out other than some stunning locations and delicious looking pizzas. There was nothing exciting, and although I didn't read the book, from what I heard the film didn't live up to it.

Memorable Moment: Liz and her friend eating Pizzas in Naples. Maybe I was just hungry at the time, but that image stayed with me. Mmmmm...

Score: 6/10

Verdict: It's a very pleasant movie, with some nice touches and occasional chuckle worthy lines, but other than some beautiful scenery and the few insights into non-American cultures, there was nothing that stood out for me. Definitely watchable, but not a film to put on your Bucket List.

Gnomeo and Juliet (2011)

Main Cast: James McAvoy, Emily Blunt, Ashley Jensen, Michael Caine, Matt Lucas, Jim Cummings, Jason Statham, Ozzy Osbourn, Stephen Merchant, Patrick Stewart, Julie Walters, Richard Wilson etc etc!

Plot Summary: Two 'star-cross'd lovers' must find a way to be together despite their warring families. Sound familiar? Well, in the words of the one who delivers the prologue "The story you are about to see has been told before. A lot. And now we are going to tell it again. But different." The difference? Gnomes.

The Good: - Gnomes have managed to turn one of Shakespeare's greatest tragedies into a beyond cute and often hysterically funny comedy. The manipulation of some of the most famous lines in history, "What's in a gnome" and "A weed by any other name is still a weed" constantly serve to lighten the mood, and anyone who knows their Shakespeare will recognise plenty.

-Aided by clever lines and beautiful animation, the all star cast breathes life into the ceramic characters. Each gnome, bunny, 'shroom or frog has its own individual traits, and each is endearing in its own way. My personal favourites: Featherstone the plastic flamingo voiced by Jim Cummings, a voice often heard throughout Disney's animations, and Fawn the ceramic....fawn, voiced by Ozzy Osbourne... a less frequent contributor to Disney.

-Elton John's ever constant presence... 

The Bad: -Avid, loyal and stubborn Shakespeare fans may be put off by the amount of artistic license Gnomeo and Juliet uses to steer away from the original. Having said that however, if you watch an animated film about gnomes expecting to see Shakespeare in all his original glory, you're perhaps a little deluded.

-Occasionally a little too self-referential. Personally, I thoroughly enjoyed the obvious parodying and OTT references, but it could be considered a bit much. In fact, the whole film could be considered a bit much. But for me, that's where the fun is.

Memorable Moment: Gnomeo's conversation with a statue of Shakespeare.

Score: 8/10

Verdict: Shakespeare's been done by everyone, so why not have it done by gnomes? What I expected was a frivolous animation with not much substance, and so I was surprised to find myself laughing at so much of it, and genuinely enjoying a new take on an old classic. It was just fun, and surely that's what Disney's all about?

Never Let Me Go (2010)

Main Cast: Carey Mulligan, Andrew Garfield, Kiera Knightly

Plot Summary: Three childhood friends, Kathy, Tommy and Ruth, try to maintain their relationships whilst preparing themselves for their pre-determined futures.

The Good: - As yet another book to film adaptation, it's good to see that Never Let Me Go didn't stray far from Kazuo Ishiguro's original concept, chronology and feel. The sadness of the situation is practically tangible throughout, and the over spill of naivety and innocence from childhood into adulthood makes it all the more touching.

-The main cast breathe life into their characters; Mulligan (Kathy) and Garfield (Tommy) particularly stand out, and their characters'  relationship, although under the surface, is constantly evident. The child actors that portray the main three when they are younger also succeed in making the characters relatable, interesting and true to the book counterparts.

The Bad: -It's difficult to categorise this tale, with it not quite fitting into the technical and often frightening nature of Sci-Fi, but at the same time not making a big enough fuss for it to be considered a drama or tragedy. It sits on the cusp of a lot of genres,  and therefore doesn't quite seem to accomplish anything.

- Although it leaves a lasting impression and is often very moving, I find it hard to consider it as more than a very depressing, very British comment on the shortness and unsatisfying nature of life.

Memorable Moment: - Kathy and Tommy's pit stop in the middle of a country road after being told some bad news, where Tommy revisits the rage he was famous for at school.

Score: 6/10

Verdict: Never Let Me Go stayed true to its novel predecessor, and this left me feeling pleasantly surprised. However, other than the acting which truly did do the characters justice, I feel that most of the positives are down to Ishiguro's story rather than the film itself. Worth a watch, whether or not you've read the book, but don't be surprised if you come away feeling somewhat depressed and dispirited.

Hanna (2011)

Main Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Eric Bana, Cate Blanchett

Plot Summary: A 16-year old girl is trained by her father to become the perfect assassin. Sent across Europe to complete her mission, she's tracked by a ruthless agency operative. Along the way she learns more about life than her father could have hoped to teach her.

The Good: -Any time Ronan is on screen. Her presence is completely captivating, and 'Atonement' was only a glimpse of the good things to come with this talented young actress.

-The cinematography is stunning, and there are some wonderful contrasts throughout between Hanna's rustic upbringing and the clean cut Western world she's thrown into. Add to that some stunning locations ranging from snowy forests to barren desserts, and Hanna is a very pretty film to look at.

The Bad: -In all honesty, I struggle to think of anything particularly negative. If I had to nit pick and highlight any one particular thing, it would be the character of Sophie. Although I appreciated the occasional light relief she provided, I've had enough exposure to annoying teenagers and could have done without her irritating twang of a voice.

Memorable Moment: -The opening sequence. Beautifully shot and an interesting introduction to Hanna's character

Score: 9/10

Verdict: Although Ronan shines in this original take on an action thriller, she is by no means the sole positive. The storyline is gripping with enough twists and turns to keep you wanting more; Blanchett, Bana and the rest of the supporting cast all play their respective characters successfully, making sure that the title role isn't the only attraction; the action is enthralling and doesn't reduce itself to mindless violence, and bringing it all together is beautiful photography and clever editing. An excellent film that will hopefully propel Ronan into more and more roles.

The Change-Up (2011)

Main Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Jason Bateman

Plot Summary: A classic body switch tale where a laid back single actor and his married lawyer best friend switch bodies & lives.

The Good: - The banter and comic timing between Reynolds and Bateman is spot on every time. The actors have been friends for a while, and it's very obvious throughout. The whole film is brilliantly funny because of their individual comedic talents and their ability to bounce off each other so well.

- The body switch is a time old classic, and although The Change Up doesn't go as far as parodying the genre, it also doesn't take itself too seriously.


The Bad: - Perhaps a few too many toilet/baby poo/masturbating jokes, but then again they fit in well with the overall 'boyishness' of the film, so can't really complain.

Memorable Moment: Reynolds' "lorno" scene...just the right amount of "ohmygoddon'tdoitthat'ssick!!" 


Score: 8/10


Verdict: I am a huge fan of both Reynolds and Bateman, and they don't disappoint in this comedy where men whizz in fountains, babies throw knives, child ballerinas kick ass, and two best friends struggle to see the benefits of marriage/casual sex respectively. Would definitely recommend it for anyone who isn't afraid of a dirty joke and who knows how not to take life too seriously.

Love and Other Impossible Pursuits (2009)

N.B: With my blog having been far too rambling of late, I've decided to bring a bit of substance to it. I'm setting myself the challenge of watching a new film every day for the next week and reporting back here. If I can keep it up, I'll then do it for a month, two, six, a year, etc. Let's see how we go...

Love and Other Impossible Pursuits

Main Cast: Natalie Portman, Scott Cohen, Charlie Tahan, Lisa Kudrow

Plot Summary: A young woman, Emilia, struggles to cope with the recent death of her baby whilst trying to build a relationship with her step-son.

The Good: -The flashbacks to the night of the baby's death were poignant and heartbreaking, and using three door frames to highlight individual moments of that night worked particularly well.

-Kudrow's portrayal of the high strung Upper East Side mother was effective and realistic without being completely over the top. A scene between herself and Portman where she was seen to be supportive, gave her character some depth and stopped her from being one dimensional.

The Bad: - There was nothing overly 'bad' about the film, but it constantly seemed to fall short. I expected more from Portman especially, and kept waiting to see uninhibited grief which I assumed would come from the death of a child. Instead, I got Hollywood pretty tears that never quite cut it.

- The film had several skips in time and I suspect that if we'd seen some of the action within the time lapses, I'd have been left feeling more moved than I did.

Memorable Moment: The scene in Kudrow's office between herself and Portman.


Score: 5/10


Verdict: Perfectly average. I expected to be saddened and affected because of the difficult theme concerning the death of a baby, but I came away feeling nothing. Indifference is possibly the worst reaction to have to anything, and therefore Love and Other Impossible Pursuits was a disappointment.

Is it too early to have a midlife crisis?

My lack of a recent entry can be put down to two reasons:

1) Where there may have been something interesting to report on, instead exists a gaping big hole with nothing to fill it except mind numbing errands and soul destroying job hunts and

2) I may be in the middle of a midlife crisis.

Perhaps it's a bit indulgent to split the above reasons into two when they can really be put under one overarching title: "I'm panicking."

I've never really been one to know what I wanted to do with my life. My earliest memory of an ambition was my dream to be a police woman on a horse. The discovery of my equine allergies and what real police work entailed, soon put pay to that idea. Next came wanting to be a vet. Again, when realising what the job description actually was, I stopped being so keen. What followed was a string of "passions" ranging from bookshop owner to prime minister- ideas that never exceeded more than a month, until finally I hit A-level year and I was being told to start making future decisions.

"So what do you want to do when you leave school?"

The dreaded question followed me everywhere. Sure, I had the short term response.

"Go to University."

"To study what?"

Hmm.
For a while the answer was English because "you can do anything with it" and I'd always thrived at the creative writing aspect, but the idea of studying texts day after day didn't appeal.
Eventually, under the advice of my mother to do something I enjoy, I decided on drama.

Of course there's a big difference in making a decision yourself and having life intervene. I didn't get the A I'd been predicted in drama (ridiculous exam and a flawed teacher, I swear) and so the University I'd settled on offered me drama and film instead.

Disappointment soon gave way to excitement, and I quickly recognised that the B in my drama a-level had done me a world of good. I loved the film aspect of my course!!

And now with a new interest, I had new career prospects. That previously dreaded question was answered with: "Something in film." At the time I was pleased with my answer. It gave me possibilities and different opportunities. It didn't occur to me that once Uni was over, I'd have to narrow those down. Nor did it occur to me that I'd be faced with even more options.

Options are supposed to be good, right? Wrong! I can't make a decision to save my life, let alone one to dictate it! Over the last few months I have considered the following: teaching drama, screenwriting, casting, acting, producing, writing fiction, teaching english abroad, editing, taking photographs, becoming a travel writer, inventing something, setting up a business, doing another undergraduate degree and working in tescos. Although I'm sure I could probably do any of the above (except work in tescos.... I can't quite see myself making that kind of career choice) I am no better off than when I wanted to be a policewoman on a horse.

I'm worried. I know I don't have to make a life altering decision now and that whatever I decide can be fixed later, but I'm so determined to make the right choice first time round. I don't want to be aimlessly switching jobs for the rest of my existence, and I want to find something I'll wake up excited to do!!

Except for those lucky few who have known what they wanted to do since their first words were "You have the right to remain silent", most graduates are facing my same dilemma.

So why do I feel like I'm the only one and that if I don't make my mind up soon, I'm going to fail?

I hate being in limbo.

Shameless plugging

The internet is so easy to abuse.
I'm abusing all of it.
So consider this a gathering of information and, as the title suggests, shameless plugging.

1) http://look-see-snap.blogspot.com/2011_08_01_archive.html - a few photo additions

2) http://moo-vfarm.com/2011/08/02/top-10-movie-sequels/ - my latest contribution to the film website 'moo-v farm'

3) @GabiGuttner - I'm finally on twitter. So do whatever it is that you do on twitter... (?)

That's all for now. Stay tuned for more ramblings soon.

xx

Status: Unemployed

I went to the cinema yesterday. Horrible Bosses. Very funny. When buying my ticket, the woman behind the counter posed a simple one worded question: "Student?" My heart sank, my purse shriveled up and my head shook itself from side to side. A barely audible "no" followed, as did her highly unnecessary "ok, two adults." Thank you, but the reiteration really wasn't necessary. I am very aware that my student status has been revoked and has been replaced with the far less desirable, 'unemployed.' Aware because, for starters, my daily routine has altered slightly...

As a student you wake up whenever. Go to a couple of seminars or lectures here and there. Occasionally step foot into a library. Frequently step foot into a pub. Do an essay. Read a book. Sleep. Discuss everything from world politics to the possibility of sliding down the stairs on a mattress. Microwave something. Sleep some more.  Pretty simple, and very comfortable, living.

The life of the unemployed- still living at home I might add- isn't quite as enjoyable.

Still wake up whenever, but feel guilty for sleeping past nine when there's job hunting to be doing. Job hunt. Eat, but feel guilty for wasting time when there's job hunting to be doing. Job hunt. Do the dishes, but resent your single parent's expectation for you to do them when there's job hunting to be doing. Stop doing the dishes. Job hunt, but feel guilty for not finishing the dishes seeing as your single parent will be tired when they get home from work and won't want to do them. Finish the dishes. Job hunt some more, this time in front of Friends, Scrubs or CSI. Consider some form of exercise, but settle instead for facebook whilst of course feeling guilty for not job hunting. Welcome home parent with news of the days job hunting. Have dinner with parent. Watch parent's choice of TV whilst discussing job hunting and whether enough of it is being done. Go to bed. Watch a film/write in blog/read book/anything but job hunt. Go to sleep and dream of job hunting.

Of course, until this job hunting business becomes a bit more fruitful and I have a lovely income, I fear that all I'll be doing is mourning the loss of my student status. And then, naturally, once I do get a job and have no spare time, I'll be mourning the loss of my unemployed freedom.

Life is a bit of a circle. Or should I say bit-ch of a circle?

Moo-V Farm

www.moo-vfarm.com

So I've started to contribute to this very cute film website. Check it out for all the latest reviews, movie opinions, debates and conclusions. Definitely worth a visit. 

And keep an eye on the left side of this page. I'll be posting links under 'Moo-V Farm' to all the articles etc I write for them, and I'd love to know what you think :)