Change Your Image
Heligena
Reviews
Twenty Thousand Streets Under the Sky (2005)
Bleak but hopeful
I have just finished watching this on BBC four having never read the book by Patrick Hamilton (for which i am suitably ashamed) and knowing little before i slumped down in the comfy armchair.
I have to say i am not a big fan of wartime stories but i found this extremely compelling. The first story was a perfect way to enter into this world, one comprised of shades of brown and unbreakable routines. The initial glamour of Jenny's world drew you to her as it did Bob, her colours lighting up the bland tones of the Midnight Bell. You could understand his growing obsession with her, with anything that spoke of something outside the mundane. She seemed to represent a more accessible version of his books, a different world to admire from afar, even though she existed right in front of him. He could immerse himself in her but never really possess her. Heartbreaking stuff.
The second story was even better, Jenny's fall from grace more of a gentle drooping than a descent. Her eyes showed it all, growing blanker and harder as those around her took advantage. And that's not to say it was all men, her friend was just as guilty of using her beauty for her own ends. Her story was incredibly bleak and i'm sure all too common in the streets of London at this time. But kudos to Zoe Tapper for giving an understated performance, making it all the more heart rending.
Finally we come to my favourite part. It was always going to be, as I am a huge fan of Sally Hawkins work. And i knew from the very beginning that Ella's was going to be the most surprising tale. I was not mistaken. Buffeted by forces she could not (or didn't have the confidence to) control she came off as a more modern and more lovable Fanny Price. Her obvious fear of intimacy and dedication to her morals made her seem almost removed from the harsh realities of the time. But throughout the hour she experienced a number of revelations that broke through the unrealities she had created around her. A fine example being that she could no longer listen to Bob through the wall, she was forced to confront him. And with each one, we saw the pain flicker in her eyes. Sally Hawkins was incredible as always and i found myself wanting to comfort Ella many times throughout the episode.
In conclusion, an excellent drama with fine central performances and suitably downtrodden cinematography. Recommended.
Fingersmith (2005)
Brilliant adaptation
Having read all of Sarah Waters books i was eagerly looking forward to a BBC adaptation of Fingersmith. Especially since Tipping the Velvet had been done so well by old familiar Andrew Davies.
I was not disappointed with the results, in fact i think this might be on a par with TTV; both romantic and entertaining. And not as so many ignorant people would have you believe, a pointless lesbian romp. Having been a fan of Elaine Cassidy's since seeing her guileless turn in Felicia's Journey i thought she embodied both hard deception and a growing fragility as Maud. Her transformation was believable and impressive to watch. I recognised Sally Hawkins as Zena Blake from Tipping the Velvet, a small role primarily so i didn't have as many expectations but she was astounding in the role of Sue Trinder. Her eyes were mesmerising conveying everything from rage to absolute despair. The two of them acting together, combining these talents made this drama unmissable. Of course Imelda Staunton was amazing as usual, she is unmistakably a national treasure and the supporting cast were all of a high standard. Even the direction from the fairly unknown Aisling Walsh used contrasting yet beautiful shades of blue for Briar and brown for London.
However as much praise must be given to Ransley the script writer. To turn a 600 page book where every line is of the highest quality into a three hour extravaganza is a huge feat. He illuminated the main revelations at a steady pace whilst giving us plenty of back-story and character development at the same time. He has my full admiration.
In conclusion, a brilliant adaptation where all involved gave 100% and making this one of the best BBC dramas i've seen.
Die Another Day (2002)
Pierce is Bond but film doesn't match his class
Warning spoilers!!!! I was raring to see this film as Goldeneye is my favourite of all time. However the trailer had made me wary focusing on simply explosions rather than any semblance ofa plot. Now i've seen it i have to say i was disappointed with 90% of it. The opening was realisic and fresh but then the special effects came ramroading in and made the whole thing seem ridiculous. Halle Berry was alright but not really that convincing as a spy. The scene imitating Ursula Andress was almost cringeworthy, the dialogue on the whole lame. Don't get me wrong i wanted to like this but the plot points- invisible car(!), tidal like wave surfing etc made it a joke. The direction was too stylised, distracting at key points. Now for the good stuff. Admittedly Miranda Frost was well played and the swordfight scene was a standout memory but on the whole, it will never be anywhere near a classic.It's a pity on the anniversary but i welcome the next one...
A Dangerous Woman (1993)
Strangely compelling...
Not a bad film for one i saw at 1.30 in the morning. Debra Winger is convincing as a mentally challenged woman who only wants to understand why being truthful doesn't work in the world around her. The fact that she has her own apartment testifying to this. Gabriel Byrne was restrained as was needed in the opposing role to the central character and gave the movie some essential compassion which worked nicely. The sex scenes were a bit graphic but i think it was necessary as the controversy between rape/consentual sex in this case was in dispute. A point not overplayed or simplified, thankfully so credit to the writer and director for that.
Overall it raised some interesting themes in societies treatment of the mentally disabled and followed through with a realistic ending. 3 out of 5.
DNA (1996)
I like to give films credit but...
I'm afraid there was nothing new in this film. It seemed to be nothing more than a hybrid of scenes lifted directly from 3 brilliant films, 'Jurassic Park' (including electric fences, animal in cage as bait, chainsmoking black computer expert) 'Alien' (the beast itself) and 'Predator' (so many scenes...too many to mention.)
It sounded like an interesting story but you couldn't see it for the cliche. None of the characters have enough depth and some of the effects let it down. Very average at best. Sorry.
Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001)
Angelina is great-with a bit more script-a brilliant film
I was really looking forward to this film being a fan of action/adventure/mythology and loving The Mummy and its sequel. I have to say that all credit goes to Angelina Jolie who was made for the role and gave the film much more credibility.
The plot could have been a bit more detailed and the script would have been better containing more interaction between characters especially Jolie and her tomb raider friend. But apart from a bit of sketchy characterisation, the stunts and set pieces were amazing and it was a thoroughly enjoyable film, even if i have never played the game.