Reviews

7/10. An Actress and a Jazz pianist fall in love, in this musical love story. Directed by Damien Chazelle who also did Whiplash in 2014, a movie I really loved. This time he pairs up Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, and they're beautiful together, they show what two class actors can do when put together. I enjoyed their chemistry, and the heart they put into this. The music and the score are fantastic, and put you in the film with them. One draw back I found, however, is that either of them can sing well, and they both have quite weak and quiet voices. I would have enjoyed some stronger lead voices. Also, not to give anything away, but I liked the whole ride, I just didn't like the way the director decided to go with the ending, it left me a bit angry. All those troubles aside, if you are a fan of musicals, Ryan Gosling and or Emma Stone, then you must see this one. If not then I think you will actually hate it. La La Land #lalaland

7/10. A Koala who owns a theatre, decides to throw a singing competition for some big prize money.

This is a fun and entertaining animation for the whole family. Matthew McConaughey voices The lead character, a Koala named Buster Moon. And he does an amazing job putting emotion into the character.

This movie has an outstanding soundtrack, with music throughout. I found all the animal characters to be fun and unique. Keep an ear out for Tori Kelly's Character, an elephant named Meena, her voice is amazing.

A great film for little kids, or big kids. Sing Movie #sing

7/10. Jack Reacher is back again, on the run to clear his name and uncover the truth.

Directed by Edward Zwick who also did Blood Diamond (2006) and The Last Samurai (2003).

He is back working with Tom Cruise again, and does a fine job. This is a popcorn movie that is just a bit of far fetched fun. Tom Cruise is good, and is up to his usual standards. His partner in crime Cobie Smulders is also fine, not much chemistry chemistry between them though.

As I often say, if you want to turn off your brain and just see a fun action flick, then this is for you. I did enjoy it. Jack Reacher: Never Go Back #jackreachernevergoback

7/10. When a boy and his foster Uncle, (Sam Neill) go missing, there is a nation wide manhunt to track them through the New Zealand Bush. This is a real wacky movie, that at times is so weird, and at others times has heart. Young Julian Dennison is hilarious, and does such a fantastic job for a child actor, his accent and his attitude just cracked me up. He is also paired well with Sam Neill. Two completely different kind of people come together to form a bond, that plays well on film. And the score for this movie is so out there, it is so weird and quirky, and yet somehow marvellous at the same time. It's worth watching just to listen to the score, it's a little Tarantino esque. This is a real stand out for Director Taika Waititi, I think he has done New Zealand proud. I found the movie enjoyable, quirky and quite funny at times. Though maybe not for everyone, I would recommend seeing it. Hunt for the Wilderpeople #huntforthewilderpeople

8/10. Based in the 1950's, we see the struggles of growing and living as an African American. This is the third movie directed by Denzel Washington, in which he also does an amazing and heart wrenching job as the lead actor. There is a lot of dialogue in this film, and is a bottle style movie, which all happens pretty much in the one house. Outstanding job by Denzel and by Viola Davis to remember all their lines, this is raw acting by the both of them, and really brings you into their lives. An absolutely gut wrenching job by Viola Davis, that frankly tares your heart out. Denzel excels in all parts of this movie, from director to his solid non stop role. I would recommend to watch this if you are a Denzel fan. Fences Movie #fences

8/10. An art gallery owner is enthralled by her ex husbands novel, suddenly showing up. OMG, this is a true thriller, and is masterfully directed and acted. Tom Ford is a genius, he works his magic in this film, and gets into your head. You just don't know where he is taking you. Very impressive for his second film as a director. Amy Adams is impressive and plays her part well. But one of my favourite actors Jake Gyllenhaal is awesome, as he so often is. He also keeps you guessing as to what is actually going on. And let's not forget Michael Shannon's part as detective, creepy and fascinating at the same time. Now this movie will not be for everyone, you will either hate or love this film. I loved the ride and was really stumped by the ending, but it gets you thinking and from what I can tell there are a few different ways of interpreting the final act. If you like psychological thrillers then definitely check it out, it is somewhat a masterpiece. Nocturnal Animals #nocturnalanimals.

8/10. This is the first stand alone Star Wars film to be released, and is placed between Episode 3 and Episode 4. We follow the rebels trying a bold plan to steal some blue prints. Directer Gareth Edwards does a fine job portraying the Star Wars universe, and really makes it feel a true Star Wars experience. The main character Jyn Erso played by Felicity Jones is a likable lead straight off the bat, she does a good job putting you in the story, and makes it easy to want her to succeed. I really loved Donnie Yens part in this, he doesn't disappoint with some outstanding fight scenes, that we are used to seeing from him, after films like the IP Man trilogy. If you are a Star Wars fan you will not be disappointed in this stand alone film, I loved it, and am looking forward to more to come. I felt like it may have gone on a little long and spent too much time on scenes that were not necessary, which left a couple of lulls. But this didn't detract from the overall movie. Do yourself a favour and check this out on the big screen, it is LOUD. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story 2016 Movie HD #rogueone

6/10. Seven gunslingers firm an alliance, to try and save a small town in trouble. From the trailer for this film months ago, I was looking forward to this one, it looked fantastic. What could go wrong with Denzel and Chris Pratt at the helm? Unfortunately a lot, I found this film the poor mans Django Unchained, an absolutely cracking movie. The acting was not that great, the plot pretty light on and it could have gone about 45 minutes less. I didn't mind some of this film because I like a lot of the actors in the film, and even enjoyed a few moments, but overall bland movie. From Director Antoine Fuqua, I really expected more, after movies like Shooter (2007), The Equalizer (2014) and Southpaw (2015), I thought this was a going to be magic, but I was sadly disappointed. You could happily miss this one. The Magnificent Seven #themagnificentseven

8/10. The story of a simple accountant, I think not. This could possibly make it into my top 10 of 2016, I really enjoyed it. It's been a while since I've seen a clever film, a thriller that makes you think. Directed by Gavin O'Connor who directed the awesome Warrior (2011), this film stands out as one of his best. Ben Affleck does an outstanding job playing a difficult role as a high functioning autistic. This is his best role in years. Anna Kendrick also does a nice job in a supporting role, not a massive part but helps make the film great. A high recommendation from me, no real criticisms here. Check it out immediately. The Accountant Movie #theaccountant

8/10. The true story of Captain Sully, who after losing both engines, manages to safely land his plane in the Hudson River.

Another feather in Clint Eastwoods director hat, he does an amazing job portraying the actual events of this 2009 crash. Tom Hanks as he usually does, does a marvellous job, he is cool and collected and shows great calmness playing Captain Sully. I like the fact that this film doesn't labour on for too long, and wraps up the whole story in 96 minutes, something that is different for Eastwood.

I would put a recommendation on this movie, and really enjoyed it. Sully Movie #sully

3/10. Jackie Chan and Johnny Knoxville team up to catch an elusive criminal. Let's start off by saying I really love Jackie Chan, although a lot of his movie are very cheesy they are still worth watching for the fight scenes and stunt work. However this film is very sad, to see him getting old and struggling to do any decent stunts. Some of the fight scenes were still fun but very lacking, I think he really needs to change to a different style of film now to suit his age, he is 62. Knoxville was fine in the supporting role, but nothing special. Renny Hardin as director could have done a much better job here, with films to his name like Die Hard 2 and Cliffhanger, I would have expected more. Don't bother seeing this film, it just made me sad to see Jackie too old for this kind of movie now, and will make you sad too if you are a Jackie fan. Skiptrace #skiptrace https://m.facebook.com/Aussiemoviereview/

8/10. A different film that shows the bond between a cook (Mr Church), looking after a little girl and her sick mother. Eddie Murphy is back, and in a really fantastic way, he hasn't made a good film like this in a long time. I really enjoyed him in this must see movie. The director Bruce Beresford does an amazing job and is to be applauded. Another stand out is Britt Robertson, who does a excellent job, as we see her growing up, and go through all the highs and lows with her. The story is well written, and it's good because they have something very different and original, which is why I think this just works. I can't recommend this one enough for anyone looking for a good enjoyable film to watch. Mr. Church #mrchurch https://m.facebook.com/Aussiemoviereview/

7/10. The story of some mums who are over their mundane life, and decide it will be fun to relax and break all the rules. I think this film is definitely geared more toward the female audience, and does a good job doing so. Some good laughs from the writers and directors Jon Lucas and Scott Moore, who also wrote The Hangovers Trilogy. Mila Kunis does a really good and funny job as the lead, but probably the stand out is the the supporting actress Kathryn Hahn, who steals the show with her demented over the top one liners and gags, she is hilarious. Kristen Bell is great as well. Another high point is the soundtrack, which is up beat and helps set the mood. There are many problems though, with the lack of plot, and the story being very formulaic. But it doesn't really matter it's just a fun laugh, check it out if you like crude humour otherwise maybe stay away. Bad Moms #badmoms https://www.facebook.com/Aussiemoviereview/

8/10. A group of kids break into a mans house to make that one big score. Wow guys Don't Breathe is an appropriate name for this film, and you will see why when you watch this heart stopping thriller. Fede Alvarez does a great job directing in a manor that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Helped along by a score that will give you some nice jump scares. Stephen Lang is ultra believable as the villain, and is so creepy it's not funny. Jane Levy and Dylan Minnette as the protagonists are fantastic and leave you feeling and following them through their ordeal. This movie is well worth watching, and is one of the films of the year so far. If you don't mind a thriller or being scared stiff then please do not miss this. Don't Breathe #dontbreathe

7/10. This is a remake of Disney's 1977 classic, in which a lost little boy (Pete) finds friendship with a dinosaur called Elliot. Now I must say up front that I really was never a fan of the original, I found it dull and boring. It is not a big classic like a lot of other Disney films, but it still has a big following of people that love it. However I am very glad that they went back 39 years later and remade it, I really liked this film and thought it was a great film for the whole family, with heartfelt moments, funny moments and also action scenes that were good fun for adults and children. I have heard criticism of the way this film starts off, with Pete losing his parents, but honestly this is not a put off for young children and is made in a way that is not sad. My two young kids were not afraid in this film at all, and absolutely loved it. Director David Lowery does a fantastic job in this remake for families. Oakes Fegley who plays Pete really does a great job for a young boy, I think he might be one to watch in the future. Pete's Dragon #petesdragon https://m.facebook.com/Aussiemoviereview/

6/10. This is the true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, who dreams of being a famous opera singer, the only problem is, her voice stinks. This was a pleasant film to watch, and was quite funny at times. Lead by two big names, Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant, we get a funny and touching love story that has a bit of a twist, they are great on screen together. I didn't think that there was to much going on story wise, but it was enough to keep me entertained. Directed by Stephen Frears who has a massive 61 films under his belt, one of my favourite being The Queen, he shows that he knows what he is doing and that the film is in trustworthy hands. I would recommend this one to anyone just looking for an easy and fun watch. Florence Foster Jenkins #florencefosterjenkins

8/10. The thrilling story of a young girl who gets trapped by a shark, and her struggle to survive. I found this film quite entertaining, and a real thrill ride of jump scares to keep you on the edge of your seat. Definitely one of the best shark movies since Jaws, except this whole film is a bottle type movie, all taking place in one spot. Blake Lively who plays the main character does a good job of keeping it lively (pardon the pun) as the lead actor. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra who also directed some other thrilling films like Non-Stop and Run all night, manages to pull of another decent thriller. The great white shark who was really the supporting actor, is convincing, although at times looks a bit too cg and fake, but on the whole it is scary and holds up. I would really recommend you check this little cracker out, and just enjoy the ride. The Shallows #theshallows

7/10. In this bio-pic we take a look at Jesse Owens, who took the Olympics by storm in 1936 in Germany. Stephen Hopkins who is known for directing Lost in Space does a nice job of showing us a glimpse into 1936, and the life of Jesse Owens who was a track and field genius. I enjoyed the portrayal of Owens by Stephen James, he was charismatic and a joy to watch. I also thought that his chemistry with his coach played by Jason Sudeikis was well handled, with Sudeikis taking charge and doing a good job. I like true stories and although they are not always 100% accurate, they do help give you an insight into history. I found it was a solid 7, and was hoping for a little more intensity to push it to a 8, but overall just an enjoyable flick. Race Movie #racemovie https://www.facebook.com/Aussiemoviereview/

7.5/10. When an ex-con, Mel Gibson, gets a phone call from his lost daughter asking for help, things get crazy pretty fast. It is good to see Mel back again, and I hope he keeps doing these little films. The last one, which I loved was Get the Gringo, I would really recommend checking that out. His daughter played by Erin Moriarty is believable and does a good job portraying the rebellious daughter. But the film is all about Mel, who does a powerful and moving job. The action in the film is good and well paced, it takes you on a real thrill ride. Although the plot was a little lacking, this didn't impede the grittiness and fun that I had watching this film. If you are a fan of Mel then you will like this, and I would recommend checking it out. Blood Father #bloodfather

7/10. In a different take on Tarzan, he is lured back to the jungle after he has settled back into normal society. I was thinking that Tarzan has been done to death, but I was surprised and really enjoyed this. In the safe hands of Director David Yates I found myself drawn into the Tarzan world and didn't find any low points, it was well paced and kept me interested. Alexander Skarsgård who normally plays small roles in films, does a decent job as the lead actor. Christoph Waltz is great as usual, and Margot Robbie as Jane also is good, it has been a big year for this up and coming Australian actor. So definitely check this one out, it's a solid fun action flick. Legend of Tarzan #legendoftarzan

5/10. In this sequel we once again see the horseman come together to pull off some more unbelievable magic. I quite enjoyed the first film and was looking forward to seeing this, and although it wasn't too bad, and was at times OK, really I found it to be quite lacklustre and even a bit boring. Not sure about the director choice with Jon M Chu, who directed Justin Bebier's believe, which I obviously have never watched but not sure how he landed this gig. Eisenberg, Ruffalo and Harrelson all were OK but weren't really given a story or script worth their talents. There was no wow factor here that we got in the first film under director Louis Leterrier. If you are interested in a bit of fun then check it out, but don't expect to use any part of your brain while watching. Now You See Me #nowyouseeme2

6/10. A film based on a DC Comic in which we see a group of criminals recruited to take down what no normal person can. Off the bat I would recommend the soundtrack, although a lot of very cool songs put together to try and improve on a messy script and story. Directer David Ayer does quite a good job of showing you and introducing you to who the suicide squad are, but doesn't seem to know what to do with them after that. Will Smith as Deadshot does a fine job as expected by him. Jared Leto is an effective Joker, I actually liked his manner and was creeped out by his laugh, unfortunately he is only a side character and not the big bad. But Margot Robbie steals the show as Harley Quinn, with a superb job. The origin story of how she came about was one of the better parts of the film. Action was OK but a bit lacking. The villain was just boring and didn't seem to have any purpose. Overall a little disappointed but some good acting and a few good scenes pushed this to a 6, which means it was better than BVS, but only just. I really hope DC pulls their socks up. Suicide Squad #suicidesquad

4/10. DC continues to try and keep up with the Marvel films, and once again fails dismally. It's like they are trying to make bad movies, what is Zack Snyder doing? We need a fresh director after he did a average job of Man of Steel I'm not sure why the studios have given him a second chance. But wait there's more, he is also directing Justice League Part 1 and 2. What the??? Ben Affleck as Batman, not the best, but I think it is once again the Director because we know he can act. Henry Cavill as Superman once more just a bore, with no emotion shown at all. Jesse Eisenberg as Lex however was at times trying to hard but at others was genius. The first two acts of the film were absolutely woeful, with nothing to offer but boredom, but the third act picked up and was more enjoyable, with some action scenes that were brilliant. Although it got a bit silly at times. We also saw the genius of how Batman vs Superman came about and this was very clever and was the only part of the story that worked and payed off. Three hours was just way too long, they could have trimmed at least an hour or even and hour and a half and you wouldn't have missed anything. Batman and Superman fans will be left wanting I'm sorry we need a new Director and better story telling. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice #batmanvsuperman

4/10. Two brothers are with their unpredictable father for the weekend and find themselves stranded in the snow.

I did find at time that the tension was enough to keep you intrigued, but it kind of never explained itself and what it was trying to accomplish.

It had all the makings of a good film but just wasn't, main actor Joel Kinnaman was fairly convincing in his role and the two boys did s great job. The whole thing just fell flat with very sloppy story telling that was basically non existent.

#edgeofwinter

9/10. The crew of the USS Enterprise are back again, half way through their five mission to explore strange new worlds they find themselves on the edge of the known explored Galaxy. Director Justin Lin doesn't disappoint going from Fast and the Furious on the ground to Fast and Furious in space. The team instantly fall back in to the groove with comradery and witty banter a plenty. Chris Pine, Zachery Quinto and Karl Urban were all awesome. I really enjoyed the part played by Sofia Boutella, keep an eye out for her character Jaylah, very cool. I also loved the score hitting some real highlights at the right times, Michael Giacchino is a legend. I also noticed lots of Easter eggs to keep all the Trekkie fans happy, as it did me. Do not miss this if you enjoy the new Star Trek reboots. #startrekbeyond Startrekbeyond Movie 2016 https://www.facebook.com/Aussiemoviereview/