Category Archives: Thriller

Biography, Drama, No Spoiler Reviews, Thriller

THE IMITATION GAME (2014): Alan Turing, Benedict Cumberbatch… 2 British Greats

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The Imitation Game (2014), Benedict Cumberbatch
The Imitation Game (2014), Benedict Cumberbatch

Oscar-nominated for his moving portrayal of real-life computer scientist, mathematician, logician and cryptanalyst, Alan Turing; Benedict Cumberbatch is an actor whose work I must pay much closer attention to from now on.

His version of Turing, an important man in the history of Britain, especially during the Second World War and how it came to an end when it did is brilliant.

Directed by Morten Tyldum, The Imitation Game is a thrilling biographical drama that grabs you from the very beginning. You’ll find yourself laughing out loud in several parts, thanks to Graham Moore’s Oscar-winning screenplay.

The Imitation Game (2014), Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley
The Imitation Game (2014), Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley

You’re also bound to chance upon feelings of gratitude for the times in which you live – whatever your background. Reason being, when you think about how things actually transpired for Turing in the very end, it’s worse than a great shame. Particularly considering the importance of the work he did in serving his country.

One of my favourite moments is the opening dialogue of Tyldum’s film. The reason is, it happens to be exactly what I want to say to people I watch movies with, almost like a spokesperson for each movie. In other words, the words signify what every film commands from audiences that sit down to watch.

The Imitation Game (2014), Benedict Cumberbatch
The Imitation Game (2014), Benedict Cumberbatch

If you haven’t already watched The Imitation Game and you want said opening dialogue to remain a surprise, stop reading now.

‘Are you paying attention? Good. If you’re not listening carefully, you will miss things. Important things. I will not pause, I will not repeat myself and you will not interrupt me.

You think that because you are sitting where you are and I am sitting where I am, that you are in control of what is about to happen. You are mistaken. I am in control because I know things that you don’t know. What I will need from you now is a commitment. 

You will listen closely and you will not judge me until I have finished. If you cannot commit to this, then please leave the room. But if you choose to stay, remember you chose to be here. What happens from this moment forward is not my responsibility. It’s yours. Pay attention.’

The Imitation Game is my favourite Benedict Cumberbatch movie and in my top ten list of favourite films.

Happy Film Loving,

G

Drama, No Spoiler Reviews, Thriller

NIGHTCRAWLER (2014): Jake Gyllenhaal At His Darkest & Creepiest Yet

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Nightcrawler (2014), Jake Gyllenhaal, Bill Paxton
Nightcrawler (2014), Jake Gyllenhaal, Bill Paxton

Nightcrawler is not quite a horror movie. However,  in the role of Lou Bloom, an L.A. Crime Journalist, Jake Gyllenhaal has never been more gaunt and terrifying.

It’s not just his deep, dark and sunken eyes that might give you nightmares. The audience learns rather quickly that not only is Lou smarter than the average person, he’s also, definitely a sociopath.

Nightcrawler (2014), Jake Gyllenhaal
Nightcrawler (2014), Jake Gyllenhaal

The tensions in this great work, written/directed by Dan Gilroy exist because the audience realises rather quickly that Lou is a little more than just a tad unhinged – which of course, can only mean bad things for all who establish any kind of relationship with him.

Gilroy’s film is good and it’s dark, both thematically and aesthetically. There’s also some brilliant dialogue here. My favourite moment is Lou’s parting line in one of his last exchanges with Bill Paxton’s character.

Besides Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo and Ashton’s great work, the character of Rick is a brilliant turn for British Actor Riz Ahmed.

Overall, Nightcrawler does a good job of highlighting some of the issues with the world we live in today, plus the characters it can produce, plus the danger that can exist in the vulnerability of the truly desperate.

Watch it and cement your appreciation of Gyllenhaal’s skills.

Happy Film Loving,

G

Action, No Spoiler Reviews, Thriller

THE EQUALIZER (2014): ‘Badassery’ Denzel Washington Style

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The Equaliser (2014), Denzel Washington
The Equaliser (2014), Denzel Washington

Director Antoine Fuqua and Denzel Washington’s The Equalizer makes me think of Taken (2008) and Taxi Driver (1976). It’s unsurprising since all three films feature young girls who end up in very unfortunate predicaments, but luckily for them, an individual takes it upon themselves to do everything they can to make things right.

I love stories like this because not many who find themselves in such precarious situations are as lucky. As always, seeing ‘baddies’ get what they deserve is fun to watch. I mean, I can’t even begin to tell you how happy I was at the end of Bryan De Palma’s Carrie (1976).

The Equaliser (2014), Denzel Washington, Chloë Grace Moretz
The Equaliser (2014), Denzel Washington, Chloë Grace Moretz

If you’re familiar with Washington, let’s face it, there are few who aren’t, then you know you’re in for a fun ride. Laced with action, good dialogue and Denzel style ‘badassery,’ The Equalizer will keep you entertained.

One of the most memorable moments for me was the swift move with the gun at Pushkin’s warehouse. It’s so very quick and just as impressive each time I hit the replay button. I also love the music that starts at approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.

Watch it because it’s good

Happy Film Loving,

G

Drama, Mystery, No Spoiler Reviews, Thriller

GONE GIRL (2014): It’s Long But Definitely Worth It

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Gone Girl (2014), Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike
Gone Girl (2014), Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike

1) I’d heard a lot of good things about Gone Girl.

2) I want to keep up with this Ben Affleck renaissance that’s been plenty discussed since Argo (2012).

3) Gone Girl is based on a successful book.

All the above are reasons I knew I’d watch David Fincher’s latest. Mr. Fincher himself is of course another reason.

Written by Gillian Flynn and very well acted by its stars, Rosamund Pike especially, and Ben Affleck. You’ll be left impressed and probably more than a little scared if not more careful.

Having seen this rather memorable film, I count myself amongst the wowed. I certainly don’t share the same disappointment some have expressed at the ending. For me, it felt just right somehow.

Gone Girl  is a brilliant mystery/drama/thriller of a movie. Regardless of the inherent darkness of the story, you’ll have no regrets. Just don’t make the same mistakes as the characters. In otherwords, be sure to communicate with your partner when things are bothering you.

Happy Film Loving,

G

Action, Drama, Thriller

SAN ANDREAS (2015): When Trailer Music Hits The Right Notes…

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San Andreas (2015): Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino
San Andreas (2015): Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino

Read my spoiler-free movie review of San Andreas 2015).

I love the music in the new trailer for San Andreas (2015) (nothing to do with the Grand Theft Auto video games).

The general pace and rhythm of this preview provides a welcome contrast to the chaos of the film’s reality.

When I like a trailer, I always really hope that the film is equally good, if not better. To this end, seeing Paul Giamatti’s face helped provide some reassurance. In the meantime, I’ll cross my fingers for the end result.

One more thing, you don’t see her face in the trailer, (at least I didn’t) but this film is additional evidence of pop singer Kylie Minogue’s return to acting.

For those wondering, the song is a version/sample of The Mamas & Papas ‘California Dreaming…’ by Robot Koch & Delhia de France

Happy Film Loving,

G