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Reviews
I'm Alan Partridge (1997)
Aha!!
Its no surprise, bearing in mind some other notable comedy creations, that a socially subnormal geek such as Partridge can be such a success. But this is due in no small part to Steve Coogan's whose timing and scripts have created more of an institution than a character. He is blunt, rude, naive and snobbish to name just a few of his characteristics but despite all this you can't help but like him. Supported with a wonderful cast who have started to mould great comic characters in their own right such as Lynn and Michael, the show never fails to make you laugh out loud every time, despite knowing exactly what is to come!
Angels with Dirty Faces (1938)
What dya hear? What dya say?
Angel's With Dirty Faces is a very 1930's take on the criminal underworld that existed during the prohibition era. It is a far cry from the Godfather or Goodfellas but there is a certain romance in that. The story surrounds a gangster named Rocky Sullivan (James Cagney) who is idolised by some young boys, much to the annoyance of his childhood friend priest Father Connelly (Pat O'Brien). As he pursues his life of crime, Sullivan is torn between his reputation as a hard man and the pleads from his friend to set a better example to the children. The film is filled with moments of action and suspense, but isn't that fast paced. However it has a good story with important ideals and is well executed by an early master of the genre in Cagney. It is well directed and features some wonderful early media techniques. It is interesting to watch today as its strong story makes it remain a very watchable film, but also to see how boundaries within the genre have changed.
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
A Beautiful Film!!!
A very poignant and heartfelt film that really touches the heart of the viewer. It follows the life of mathematician John Nash as he struggles through University and then through life trying to cope with mental illness. It does a great job of displaying schizophrenia and its effects to both the individual and those around them, and is wonderfully emotive throughout. The film is somewhat drawn out, but this befits the both complicated and intriguing nature of the subject matter. The film is not easy going, nor does it go at a thrill a minute pace, but if you like something more thoughtful that tugs on the heart strings then you can't go far wrong with A Beautiful Mind.
Cool Runnings (1993)
Brilliant, good humoured and fun
It may never be a critically acclaimed film but Cool Runnings is a real 'feel good' film that can pick you up on a rainy day. Combining good humour with a nice storyline you really warm with the characters. Typically Disney, there is a number of underlying moral issues which try to be conveyed throughout the film, but despite this I think they are done subtly and creates a rapport with the audience as they follow the roller coaster the Jamaicans are on.
Living in England the Jamaican lifestyle and people are respected through the popularity of reggae music and the laid back attitude in which they live, something I personally respect and aspire to. Therefore certain warmth is felt towards the characters because of their attitudes to life and the unusual and original storyline makes the film quite compelling, coupled with the fact I am a big sporting fan and any film about sport is likely to take my interest.
For anybody reading this wondering whether they should watch the film I would suggest whole-heartedly that they should. Unless you are the most cynical viewer then you are bound to end the film feeling really good having had a few laughs on the way.
My Evaluation - 5/5 - Really good fun, a must see disney classic !!!