Swoon, I'll catch you

One of the things I love most about the movies is that it enables you to escape into another world. This blog is inspired by my darling sister, who, for my birthday did a post about our shared love of certain actors. Here, I am posting some of my alltime most romantic leading man roles. The criteria? Call me shallow, but looks of course, personality and the lengths they will go to for the woman they love. They are good, but not too good. Sex appeal is an obvious must. Invariably they are handsome, dependable, smart and fun. They may not be to everyone's tastes, but here are the men that have made my movie life all the more meaningful. In no particular order, apart from the last two, for they will forever be my number one. I hope that you enjoy it, there are lots to get through, so let's get on. Here's looking at you, Ray...

ROMEO Leonardo DiCaprio Romeo and Juliet

Youthful, beautiful and willing to die for his girl. Heartbreaking words, wonderful adaptation, Oh Romeo, did my heart love till now? Foreswear it, sight! For I ne'er saw true beauty till this night

COUNT LASZLO DE ALMASY Ralph Fiennes The English Patient

Dying from his injuries the mysterious Count is haunted by his love for Katherine. As he recounts his tale, we are drawn into their world, for the bath scene and the back of his neck, he will be forever remembered.

GEORGES FAURE Gerard Depardieu Green Card

Willing to do anything to live in America, composer George marries citizen Bronte. At first he appears oafish, but his gallic charm wins us all over. He cooks, he plays piano, he's earthy and has a French accent, I DO!

SAM BALDWIN Tom Hanks Sleepless in Seattle

Overrated as a romantic film, the character of Sam is faultless. He's fun,dependable, you just know he smells good, a great Dad, a Widower who misses his wife but is willing to move on, this all American boy's appeal is universal. Shall We?

CHRISTIAN Ewan McGregor Moulin Rouge

A romantic poet falls for the concubine Satine. In Baz Lurhmann's divine assault on the senses, anything goes. He sings, he dances, he loves, you can tell every body this is his song. His smile could light up Paris, he surely can can can.

JOHN BOOK Harrison Ford Witness

The cop who goes deep undercover in the Amish community to investigate a murder. He's moody, he's dependable and there's a dry humour lurking just below the surface. Good with his hands he can build a mean barn, he gets in for the Sam Cooke scene and the mind blowingly tense early morning union. What a wonderful world it would be....

ROBERT KINCAID Clint Eastwood The Bridges of Madison County

Robert Kincaid breezes in to photograph some bridges, and turns his life, and Franscesca's upside down. Who knew Clint could be so damn romantic? Awakening parts of Franscesca that she never knew existed, they share an unbearably romantic few days together. The final scenes never fail to break my heart, he is deep, he's a talented photographer, he's a free spirit, and he loves her until the day he dies.

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE Joseph Fiennes Shakespeare in Love

One of the greatest romances ever. The relationship between Will and Viola is fun, earthy, sexy and real. He loves her enough to let her go, but not before immortalising her in one of the saddest endings ever. For he shall be a hero for all time...

CAPT ETIENNE NAVARRE Rutger Hauer Ladyhawke

Well before Twilight, Isabeau and Navarre were star crossed lovers, having been put under an evil spell by a jealous rival. He's a wolf by night, she's a hawk by day, bound to each other, they roam the land trying to find a way to break the spell. He's handsome and fearless, driven by the love of a woman he can only remember in his dreams. Magical.

MR DARCY Matthew MacFadyen Pride and Prejudice

Sorry Col, but Matthew's my Mr. Darcy. Proud, rich and moody, we see glimmers of the humour and sensitivity behind the facade. Even though she is not in the same social class, he is devoted to Elizabeth, but is bound by etiquette and stubborness. When he finally does succumb, the image of him storming across the misty English field to claim his love will set your heart aflutter. I love, I love, I love you.

TOM LEFROY James McAvoy Becoming Jane

Oozing testosterone and cockiness, Tom sweeps into Jane's life and claims her heart. Beneath this sexy exterior, there lies the heart of a true romantic, devoted to Jane but confined to the expectations of the age. The raw energy and fun of the cricket match captures us, but it's the ball scene that makes us gasp, those who've seen it will know. Heartbreaking, beautiful, Tom Lefroy, inspiring Jane's Mr Darcy.

CK DEXTER HAVEN Cary Grant The Philadephia Story

Handsome, rich, sexy, suave and full of fun. Tracey's first husband is determined to stop her second marriage. Not by force, but just by being there to show her what she's missing. He just wants her to be a woman, naturally. Who could want more from her leading man than that?

ELIOT NESS Kevin Costner The Untouchables

The pure face of an angel. The ethics and morals of a saint. Defiant against the mob, he stands for justice. The only thing that scares him is that his beloved wife and children may be in danger. Looks great in Armani and has put the butterfly kiss in our bedtime routine with my children. Makes you feel safe and leaves you wishing he would offer to brush your hair.

MACON LEARY William Hurt The Accidental Tourist

Achingly sad from the loss of his son, Macon is desperately trying to stay in the Leary groove he has carved himself. When his overbearing wife leaves him, he meets the eccentric Muriel and his world is changed, reluctantly at first, forever. Oh how I wish I was on the receiving end of the look he gives Muriel from the taxi at the end.

RHETT BUTLER Clark Gable Gone with the Wind

Charming and roguish Rhett, irrestistable to all woman, except the one he loves. Full of fun and wit, what on earth was she thinking of? Ashley doesn't even come close. Coming to her senses way too late, frankly my dear, she should have given a damn.

MICHAEL DORSEY Dustin Hoffman Tootsie

Played with an irresistable combination of humour and intensity, Michael will do anything for his art, even switch genders. When he becomes a hit as a woman, he struggles with how to reveal his true identity without crushing the woman he loves. Sexy with a great sense of style, the ending is ridiculously romantic. When he tells Julie he was a better man with her as a woman and he has to learn to do it without the dress, what woman in their right mind wouldn't forgive him?

ALADDIN Scott Wiengar (voice) Aladdin

A diamond in the rough with a monkey as his best friend. This boy falls for a Princess and enlists the help of a genie to make it happen. He takes her on a carpet ride, shows her a whole new world and true love prevails. Do you trust him? Certainly, just don't you dare close your eyes.

WILL HUNTING Matt Damon Good Will Hunting

Fiercely intelligent and loyal, Will struggles with his feelings for Skylar and to overcome the horrors of the past. His journey is flawed, but he gets there with humour and wit. When he smiles, oh how I love them apples. Wouldn't mind an afternoon delight, or any time of day for that matter.

JACK BAKER Jeff Bridges The Fabulous Baker Boys

Moody, talented and troubled. Jack Baker is a piano playing womaniser. He denies his love for Susie, the sexual chemistry is tense from the start. Famous for it's piano writhing scene, Jack brings out the smoulder in Susie. Beneath this gruffness is a sexually charged sensitive soul who loves his dog, irresistable.

And so to the last two......

JACK DAWSON Leonardo DiCaprio Titanic

Free spirit Jack wins a pass on Titanic. There he saves Rose from herself and so begins a love story so sweet, it broke box office records. Many people have slated this film since, a case of sour grapes methinks. For me, Jack is the ultimate romantic lead. Handsome, comfortable in his own skin, charms people below and above the decks of all ages. He is talented, fun and defies class. Above all, he's brave and good, and sacrifises himself for his true love. Even with death on his shoulder, he thinks of Rose and makes her promise to have a full and happy life. Jack, my heart will go on. Just knowing that you would be there at the top of the stairs waiting patiently would have got me through just about anything. Here's to making it count.

ROBBIE TURNER James McAvoy Atonement

He's clever, funny and pure. He has the bluest, saddest eyes you can imagine. Dependable, honourable, but never boring. At the beginning, Robbie has the world at his feet. He is in love with Cecilia, and that love knows no bounds. He can make a library seem the most exciting place in the world. The tragedy of Robbie is that he is unwaveringly decent and moral. Brave and courageous, he is loved by every person whom he comes into contact with, and it is the twisted adoration of a certain she-devil that shall not be named that is his downfall. Robbie is the ultimate romantic lead, full of the joy and energy of youth, but with the wisdom and patience of knowing that life doesn't always turn out how it should. And bearing this knowledge with a heartbreaking dignity. So many scenes that are standout, but if I have to pick just one, it's when the star crossed duo are getting ready for dinner. Puccini and perfection. Thanks so much.

Limitless

What if there was a drug that could enhance your brain power? Make you so much more productive, smart and clear thinking? Would you take it? This is the question posed to Eddie Morra (Bradley Cooper), a talented writer who is an uninspired, unmotivated loser. We know this because his hair looks like a bird's nest and you can smell him from your seat in the third row. Eddie doesn't take long to decide that yes, he'll take the drug please. Immediately life becomes clear. We know this because the scene takes on a yellow glowing hue, and his eyes become a turquoise irridescant pool of light. He finishes his book, he gets his girl back (underused Abbie Cornish) and he makes an awful lot of money with the help of Trump like business man, Carl Van Loon (yes, really) played by the legend that is Robert De Niro. The problem with having such a miracle drug is that there are plenty of people after it. There are also the ethical and medical dilemmas to dodge and his life is in danger as he is chased by an ammoral Eastern European money lender. It's a really interesting premise. I'm not sure quite what the message is, but it's a fun film. Somewhere along the line it doesn't quite hit the mark. Whilst it's largely well acted, I'm not convinced of Mr Cooper's star power. Yes, he's lush and yes, his eyes are a tantalising shade of blue, but can he carry a film? Based on this I'd suggest he's great at ensembles, not so great as lead actor, a bit like Brad Pitt really, don't ask me why I just don't see them as leading men. Still, it's a good film, and nice to see that there are some interesting scripts still knocking around. LIMITLESS:There is no limit to the depth of those baby blues.6/10.

The Reef

Loosely based on real life events, this pants wetter is set in the oceans of my sunburnt country; Australia. It's the story of a salty sea dog, Luke (Damien Walshe-Howling) and Kate (Zoe Naylor) who were once and item, and would be again if it wasnt' for that meddling great white. Kate and Luke are on a boat with Kate's brother Matt (Gyton Grantley) and Suzie (Adrienne Pickering) his girlfriend, for a scuba diving trip. After we see some magnificent shots of the beautiful creatures the sea has to offer, things soon turn to less than perfect. The boat capsizes and the four people, along with Captain Warren (Kieran Darcy-Smith) are left with an agonizing decision. Do they swim approximately twenty kilometres to where Luke is fairly certain there is an island, or do they stay atop the boat and drift further out to sea? What an horrific dilemma. Three of them decide to trust Luke's navigational skills and swim for land. Warren, a fisherman, knows the waters and what lurks beneath, and chooses to take his chances on the boat. So the four set off, but will they make it? This is no surprise to anyone, but there are sharks involved. Not model sharks, but real footage and CGI generated images. There is plenty of suspense, and the director uses just enough footage to shock, but not too much, based on the safe knowledge that what you fear is worse than what you see, although in this case, both are pretty awful. The tension of the four swimmers, desperately trying to keep it together, whilst living in fear of getting picked off by fishy predators is heart stopping, and heart breaking. The acting and photography is very good, so what stops this movie from being a really enjoyable blockbuster? Jaws is one of my all time favourite movies. The story, the setting, the script (which my sister and I know backwards, sadly) are peerless, time cannot taint it, nor can more sophisticated graphics or special effects beat the great mechanical one as he leaps out of the water to get a mouthful of Brody's chum. It's fun and we all love it when Quint gets his by being chomped in half by his nemesis, because, lets face it, he was a bit of a know it all wasn't he? And a show off. Even knowing that shark attacks happen regularly we loved it, because it wasn't real. This movie, however well crafted, simply feels as if we are voyeurs watching the slow and torturous demise of some very unlucky people. How on earth can I enjoy jumping out of my skin when I know that these people really went through it? I enjoy watching films based on fact. The difference when I watch something like the mighty 'Schindler's List' is that I am being educated. It is horrendous to watch, but there is humanity, and we need to see it, lest we forget. I don't need to see four people in terror of their lives to know that if I jump into a warm ocean, and swim for 20K, chances are I won't come out with all of my limbs intact. I think that's the difference. I even felt a bit guilty watching footage of the shark, because bizarrely it looked really quite cute, and well, a bit sharkey. My other objection is that at one point Kate states that she thinks it's the same shark that's been following them. After the shameful hounding and killing of thousands of sharks by people after Jaws was released (much to Peter Benchley's horror), I think the director was irresponsible to humanise the shark and make it possibly vengeful.
It's a good film, and doesn't run for too long, because, people's abject terror aside, watching four people swimming with floaties for longer than about forty minutes can become a bit tedious.I guess at the end of the day, when the tide goes out, it was all a bit pointless. THE REEF:A big barrier to me going to my local beach for a paddle. 6/10.

Elizabeth Taylor In Memorium

Born in England in February 1932, the movie star with the impossibly violet eyes died on March 23rd 2011. Lauded as one of the greatest beauties the world has known, Elizabeth Taylor began her illustrious career with the film, 'There's one born every minute', but it was as the feisty Velvet Brown in 'National Velvet' that people began to take notice of her acting talent. Known for her tempestuous love life, racking up an impressive eight marriages to seven men, it's her passionate relationship with Richard Burton that we will remember most. Due to her larger than life romantic shenanigans, her perfumes and her tireless campaigning for AIDS, her talents as an actress are sometimes overlooked. Taylor received 2 Oscars, for her role as call girl Gloria in 'BUTTERFIELD 8' and for Martha in 'Who's afraid of Virginia Woolf?' playing opposite Burton.This role in particular showed her acting skills, as she stripped herself bare of make-up, the film was shot in black and white and was hardly flattering to either of these screen legends. Taylor became the first actress to receive $1 million dollars, in the title role of Cleopatra, remembered more for it's overblown costumes and '60s stylings than for the film itself. She starred with some of the greatest and most gorgeous men in Hollywood, James Dean, Montgomery Clift, Rock Hudson and of course, as Maggie the Cat with the one and only Paul Newman in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Suffering from ill health throughout her life, Elizabeth had four children, one of whom was adopted. Elizabeth Taylor truly lived the life of a Hollywood star and the world will be a little less glamorous without her in it.

Unknown

Starring Liam Neeson as Dr Martin Harris, and January Jones as his wife, this thriller is set in Berlin. It's about a man who is speaking at a global event, but is involved in a taxi accident and loses his memory. After a short stay in hospital, he returns to the hotel only to find that his wife doesn't recognise him, and there is another Dr Martin Harris (nice to see you again, Aidan Quinn) in his place. The only person he can rely on to help him find the truth is the very trusting illegal alien taxi driver Gina (luminous Diane Kruger) who's been through enough carnage in her life already thank you very much. There are some stellar supporting roles, the mighty Bruno Gantz (Downfall)as Ernst Jurgen, an ex cold war spy, and Karl Markovics (The Counterfeiters) as the Dr's Dr. Frank Langella, gloriously sinister as usual pops up toward the end as well. It's really refreshing to see a film set in a country other than the United States. I love the USA, don't get me wrong, but it adds another unfamiliar dimension to the film. Neeson is his usual likeable self, although he's supposed to be American, and it's impossible for him to lose that delightfully seductive Irish lilt. Diane Kruger just lights up the screen whenever she's in a scene. January Jones did a remarkable impression of a Stepford wife. Wooden and icy, her unemotional turn was enough to rival that of Nicole Kidman. She sticks out like a sore thumb in this cast of heavy weights. I also find it fascinating that a man of Neeson's age is cast in a very physical role as an action man, whilst it's said that women in their 50s find it hard to get any type of role in Hollywood. Not complaining, just observing. Although it's a formulaic thriller, it's great fun, with enough twists to keep you interested and wonder what the heck is going on, there are probably enough loose ends to make a nice warm jumper for a German Winter. UNKNOWN: The real unknown is the answer to the question, would Gina have been so trusting if the role of Martin was played by, say, Danny DeVito? 6/10.

The Girl who Kicked the Hornets' Nest

Lisbeth Salander, she shall be a heroine for all time. Lisbeth has been severely injured and is taken to hospital. On her recovery, she is to stand trial for the murder of three people and attempted murder of her Father. The journalist Mikael Blomkvist is the only person who has the information to save her. Will she allow her tragic and abusive past to be thrown open to the public to clear her name? This is the final film in the Millenium Trilogy. What a ride it's been. I didn't want to read the books, because they've been so popular. Call it a mid-life teenage rebellion if you like. Then I saw the first movie, 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' and was so captivated that I read the books. They are well worth the read. The problem with adapting well loved novels like this is there is so much packed into them, what do you leave out? The first movie stood on it's own. That's not the case with the second or third film in my opinion. If you haven't read the books, it's very hard to follow. Naturally a lot has been left out, and with that, some of the depth and meaning has gone. Micke in the book is a real lady's man, part of his charm, but it doesn't translate to the film. Even when you have read the books, it's a little disjointed in places. The movie is shot in Sweden, with subtitles and Swedish actors. This gives it a really raw quality, as most of us are not familiar with the actors apart from Michael Nyqvist (As it is in Heaven) and now the excellent Noomi Rapace as Lisbeth. All of them are quite outstanding, and it's really refreshing that none of them seem to have been to the make-up unit, apart from Rapace, who went for everyone. It also paints a very different picture of the Sweden that most of us imagine. There is no beauty or social conscience here, but thankfully it appears that the kitchens are all Ikea still. Some of the scenes are incredibly confronting and violent. It's not often that a heroine is so well portrayed in a film. She is a surly character for sure, but Noomi Rapace forces you to like and admire her, through all of her gothic sulleness. Michael Nyqvist is also excellent. The only gripe I have, and this is not his fault, is that Mikael is described as drop dead gorgeous. Although Nyqvist undeniably grows on you and is attractive in his own way, I think Daniel Craig, (the man slated for the remake) may have been a better choice. It remains to be seen if Rooney Mara comes anywhere close to Noomi Rapace, I somehow doubt it. THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNETS' NEST: Don't stir the Queen and get her angry, she's got a real sting in her tail. 7.5/10

No Strings Attached

Natalie Portman and Kevin Kline, hang your heads in shame, what were you thinking? No Strings Attached is a movie in the middle of an identity crisis. It doesn't know whether to be 'Zac and Miri make a porno' or 'When Harry Met Sally', it fails either way. Why is it so hard for Hollywood to produce a real and funny romantic comedy? The story is about Emma (Portman) and Adam (Ashton Kutcher) who first meet at Summer camp as young teens. Then again in their late teens. Then again in their early twenties. Then again in their late twenties. There was always a spark between them. We are led to assume this by the goofie smiles rather than their actual screen chemistry. Adam is a sweet dreamer who works as an assistant on a teen series based heavily on Glee, but who dreams of being a writer. Emma is a no nonsense student doctor, with a real issue with men and relationships. We don't ever know why, that would be far too deep, we just accept it after she invites Adam, when in their early twenties to a 'thing'. The 'thing' turns out to be her father's funeral. However, neither deny their physical attraction, so Emma decides that they should just have sex, no snuggling or dating, just sex. This works for a while, but sweet Adam can't leave it at that, and wants more. Will Emma succumb? what do you think? The point is, when it happens will you care? The editing is all over the place, the movie switches scenes and some parts appear to be tagged on, with no explanation and no tie to the story particularly. Some of the lines are truly crass. Don't get me wrong, that's not a problem for me, but with crassness has to come excellence of delivery and timing, and only Mr 'Buff at 50' Kline is up for the job. The characters are quite unbelievable and some of the scenes are ridiculous. Take for instance the one where Emma and her doctor roomates are lying around with hot water bottles, feeling sorry for themselves because they all have a period at the same time. Sadly, the only male doctor in the group is gay, and so the director thinks it ok for him to join in with this whine fest. Adam turns up with cupcakes, halleluja. He also makes Emma a 'period tape' quite funny but for goodness sake, here's the thing. Women have periods every. single. day. It's not a new phenomena, and guess what, we just get on with it. Only teenages would behave in this manner, or very high maintenance princesses. Either way I've got news for you Adam baby, what you see as endearing whimpering when flow comes to town with Emma at 28, will be annoying and horribly indulgent with Emma at 35, so don't feed the beast. Kevin Kline is great as Adam's egotistical tv star dad, although woefully underused. Natalie Portman looks uncomfortable and out of place, she's too classy for a film like this, but then so is Kevin. And Ashton, what to say about Ashton? He's cute, but thinks he's cuter, can only act one role, sweet but a bit of a child, and I just can't get past Demi Moore and him tweeting every part of their life. NO STRINGS ATTACHED: No comedy attached, No chemistry attached, no script attached. 5/10.

Hereafter

Not many good things have been written about this film. As I read poor review after poor review, something didn't add up. This is a Clint Eastwood movie, most of his films are great (apart from Million Dollar Baby which the rest of the world loved, but I wouldn't give one cent for). Not only has the big man directed and written the score, but Matt Damon is in it, and the gorgeous yet underrated Bryce Dallas Howard (well done Richie Cunningham!), and Cecile De France, a beautiful and talented French actor. So what wasn't to like? Not much in my opinion. Hereafter is a well crafted and sensitively told film about, well, the Hereafter. It follows the lives of three people. The main character is George (smile please Matt Damon, oh please smile), an extremely reluctant true psychic who is haunted by his gift. He stumbles through his life, desperately trying to connect with people, only to find that it's impossible when they discover his talent. He is up against trying to live a normal life with trying to stave off his brother's numerous attempts to get him back into the psychic reading business, he's been down that road, and it was a rocky one. The second life is that of young boy Marcus and his identical twin Jason in London. Their Mum is a junkie and they are frequently visited upon by social services. Tragedy hits as Jason is killed. Life and the afterlife are questioned over and over as Marcus tries to make sense of the loss of his beloved brother. The third person is Marie, and she is introduced in the opening scene. Marie (Cecile De France) is a hard nosed tv journalist who is on a dirty holiday in Asia when a tsunami hits. The graphics in this part are quite brilliantly horrific. Marie has a near death experience. This slowly changes her whole attitude and outlook on life, and she finds herself looking for answers and a new career path. These three lonely and sad people entwine together at the end of the film, with really quite emotionally satisfying results. Some questions are answered and tears are shed. It is a Clint Eastwood film. By that I mean that he intuitively seems to know the right notes to strike, not just in his melodious score. There is emotion without sentimentality. There is horror without bloodshed. There is sadness without shirt tearing histrionics. We find out what happens to these world weary people. It's the little things in his movies that always mean a lot. George's love of Charles Dickens. Melanie's heartbreakingly awkward reaction to George's reading. The boy's mother's obvious love for her children. It's been slated as a slow movie. Well, the subject matter is hardly appropriate for a blockbuster. It was a gentle tale that I really didn't want to end. It's also been reviewed as not half as clever as it thinks it is. I don't agree. I think we all have questions about the afterlife. I am a committed atheist but it's an interesting thought, and let's face it, none of us knows for sure what happens when we shuffle off this mortal coil. It surely defies belief that a man entering into his ninth decade this year is continuing to direct such quality films, and scoring the music too. He made my day. Hereafter was a delightful surprise, superbly acted with great depth of emotion. HEREAFTER:I wouldn't be seen dead writing a bad review about this one. 7.5/10

Sarah's Key

This is a harrowing tale of the holocaust based on a novel. The fact that it's not fact has raised some eyebrows. I feel that anything that sparks people's interest in this dark time in history is a good thing. It is sympathetically scripted and very sensitive to the subject. The film follows American in Paris Julia (consistantly beautiful and brilliant Kristin Scott Thomas), who is married to Bertrand, who's a little bit selfish in my opinion. Julia and Bertrand are about to move into architect Bertrand's parents apartment. During her research into a terrible real incident, where the French rounded up their Jews, and kept them in a cycle stadium the velodrome for 3 days before shipping them off to the death camps, Julia discovers that their new flat's previous occupiers, the Starzynskis,were a family that were taken away to this stadium. Interweaved in the modern day story, we follow the path of Sarah, the little girl from the flat as she hides her brother from the French and is taken away with her mother and father. The film slowly unravels and we learn what the terrible fate is of the Starzynski family. Julia also has her own troubles, her selfish husband for one, more like a child than a partner, her teenage daughter and the possibility, after years of trying, of becoming a mother again. After Julia finds out the terrible story, she sets about trying to track down the surviving members of this heartbreaking time, with some surprising consequences. The film is extremely well acted, especially by the dear Melusine Mayance who plays Sarah. The skipping back and forth over time is not confusing and is edited well. The subject matter is of course, chilling, and completely devastating.there are some nice touches. The younger journalists that Julia works with are initially indifferent and ignorant to the horrors of world War 2. The guilt that haunts people in the present over the past is evident. It's a many layered film, with a nice return to the screen by Aidan Quinn. Sarah's Key: Will unlock the tears. 7/10

Black Swan

Natalie Portman has already signalled this is a brilliantly acted film, by winning the Golden Globe award for best actor in a female role. She deserves it. Her portrayal of Nina Sayers, an emotionally fragile ballerina, desperately trying to prove she has the physical and emotional skill to play the lead in 'Swan Lake' whilst descending into her own hell is nothing short of mesmerising. It is painful to watch as she attempts to become a more sensual person, a part of her that she has locked away. Her attempts are thwarted by her overbearing stage Mum, (Barbara Hershey, oh what have you done to your face?) and possibly by the new, loose limbed -and moralled- Lily, a perfect Mila Kunis. As if that isn't bad enough, Nina also has to cope with a seductive svengali, Vincent Cassel who is repulsively attractive to her, and the figure of what she will inevitably become, the aging dancer Beth Macintyre (lines chewed up by Winona Ryder). In some ways, the theme is reminiscent of 'Shutter Island', but not as rich in depth or storytelling as that masterpiece. The film is extremely dramatic, a reminder of the productions of the 1950's although far more explicit, and I mean that in every sense of the word. As Nina loses her grip on reality, she suffers from visions of hideous self-harm and imagines she is, in fact, transforming into a swan. It's also a fascinating insight into the mysterious world of ballet and the dancers that are so dedicated to their art.

The ending is absolutely spectacular. It's very hard to believe that Natalie Portman is not a prima ballerina, she embodies the role, and the movements so beautifully. It's a film that's hard to watch, as was The Wrestler (also directed by Darren Aronofsky). There are very obvious comparisons between the black and white swan and the demons smothering Nina, and the implication of the mirrors everywhere is fairly self explanatory. It's a really thrilling and entertaining movie, just not first date material. In fact, don't go and see this movie with anyone that you don't know that well, you may end up feeling that you've also descended into your own personal hell. I have thought long and hard about this movie since my initial blog, and have decided to make the unprecedented step of downgrading my rating. I know, I really live life on the edge. It was an 8, but the more I think about it, it's only really worth a 7, I quite frankly can't see what all the fuss is about. BLACK SWAN: Duck down to your local movie theatre and have a gander. 7/10.

Tangled

This is Disney's 50th animated feature. It's a very traditional Disney film, which I love. There are no 'pop culture' references. No clever insinuations for adult audiences. Just good old-fashioned story telling and the film is all the better for it. It's the tale of Princess Rapunzel, gifted with magical healing hair, stolen from her Royal parents by a vain old woman who wants to stay young forever. Rapunzel is kept in the tower and emotionally blackmailed by her 'mother', until her yearning for adventure becomes too strong, and a roguish young man falls into her life, quite literally. The film then follows the usual pattern, towards, and I don't think I'm going to spoil anything here, a happy ending. There are lots of fun visual characters, the adorable chameleon, never far from Rapunzel's side, and the brilliant show stealing Maximus, a Royal Guard horse that thinks he's a dog. The rogue, 'Flynn Rider' is voiced by Zachary Levi, of 'Chuck' fame and the voice of Rapunzel is Mandy Moore, no hugely famous voice-overs, which again, is a good thing. The graphics are just beautiful. We went to the 2D version, I'm not a big fan of 3D. The only gripe I would have is the character of Flynn Rider. In every story before, when the leading man is a 'rogue' that is what he is. Aladdin was a really good guy, who just stole to eat, but nothing else, which made him a diamond in the rough. This guy is actually a thief, and stole from Rapunzel's parents no less, with no remorse. He still got the girl. A sign of the times maybe? At least they didn't give him earrings. Or a tattoo. This time. Overall, a lovely film, pretty good for littlies and older kids. Not in the same league as Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, or The Little Mermaid, but some catchy tunes and a nice tale. RAPUNZEL: Go and see it, let your hair down. 6/10.

Morning Glory

Becky (darling Rachel McAdams) is a talkative workaholic who has always dreamed of working on morning tv. When she is unexpectededly fired as a producer, she is given the chance by Jerry (Jeff Goldblum, aging well baby) to become the executive producer of one of the less successful morning tv programmes. Underqualified and overambitious, she fires the reptilian male co-anchor on the first day. The network has no budget to pay for a new anchor. Becky's idol is Mike Pomeroy, a serious news anchorman. To her joy she finds not only is he on contract to the network, but there's a loophole in it which means he has to work on the show, or receive not a penny more. To quote the film, Mike is the "third worst person in the world". Needless to say Mike (Harrison Ford) is not thrilled to be working on a production that has zero gravitas, and a co-anchor diva who has been presenting the show for years. It is up to Becky to make it work, before the show is cancelled in favour of game show reruns.
I've been lucky to have seen two comedies recently that have been funny, intelligent and sweet, this is one and Love and Other Drugs was the first. It's a delightful film. Rachel McAdams is really likeable in a role that could have been irritating in a less accomplished actress' hands. Patrick Wilson is sweet as Becky's love interest. The co-anchor diva is played by, in my opinion, one of the most overrated actresses in the movies, Diane Keaton. Here, however, her overacting and generally predictable 'kookiness' works in her favour and she is a great character. Someone needs to tell old Annie Hall that just because somebody once told her that high waisted pants suited her, doesn't mean she has to wear them in every single movie. They don't suit her. They rarely suit anyone. Harrison Ford is just wonderful. He runs the usual gamut of facial expressions, grumpy and less grumpy. We see flashes of Indi and Jack Trainer (from Working Girl), he does comedy well and he knows how to make himself likeable against all odds. The relationship that forms between Mike and Becky is really touching, as are the relationships formed on the show from a super cast. MORNING GLORY: A wonderful way to start the day. 7/10

The Chronicles of Narnia - The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

I have to admit, as a child I was never a fan of the Narnia books. I have also not seen the first two Narnia movies apart from clips with Mr Tumnus in it, purely because he was played by the divine James McAvoy. It begins at the start of WWII, as Lucy and Edmund, along with their dreadful cousin Eustace are pulled into a picture and sucked back in to Narnia. There they meet Caspian (a Jesus-like Ben Barnes)and crew on a breathtaking ship and are enlisted to help them in their fight against an evil smoke that is taking their fellow Narnians. Along the way the young people learn about their own demons. Lucy wants to be beautiful like her absent sister, and Edmund yearns for the power not yet entrusted to him. There follows a classic tale of Good versus Evil, with Good, as always, comfortingly prevailing. The special effects in this film are spectacular. The storyline though fairly standard is imaginative enough to hold your concentration. There are some fabulous creatures, some of them extremely scary and there's a special appearance by the mighty Tilda Swinton as The White Witch. The acting is excellent, especially from the younger generation. A special nod to Will Poulter as the pig-headed snobby cousin Eustace who sees the error of his ways. I always like the snotty posh kids, they're the funniest. The Ship's Captain is played by Australian larrikin Gary Sweet. He seems confused at times, is he playing Captain Pugwash or Captain O'Flaherty? Aslan is voiced by His Majesty Liam Neeson, and the adorable tenacious Reepicheep is Simon Pegg. Be prepared to shed some tears at the end. A lovely film for slightly older children, my seven and eight year olds loved it, but any younger and they'll be scared. The Chronicles of Narnia - The Voyage of the Dawn Treader: It's a stormy crossing but there's light on the horizon. 6/10.

A HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE

Love and Other Drugs

Firstly to answer the question, is there a lot of sex and nudity? Yes, and hallellujah for that. This is the story of Jamie Randall, (Jake Gyllenhaal with eyes of blue and body of Adonis, swoon) who is the much loved black sheep of a successful medical family. Trying his hand at many jobs, he lands a sales gig with Pfizer, one of the biggest pharmaceutical companies in the world. Initially he is selling antibiotics and anti-depressants, but this is the mid-nineties and Viagra is about to unleash its mighty power on the world. It's in this job that he meets Maggie (sweet, lucky Anne Hathaway) a wild child diagnosed with Parkinsons at the tender age of 26. Jamie is a hound to say the least and so it appears is Maggie. So begins a steamy affair, oh boy is it sexy, but will it turn to something more? Well, it's a really great film. The script is quite hilarious, earthy and charming. The support actors are wonderful, standout being Josh Gad as Josh, Jamie's younger foul-mouthed brother and the always brilliant Hank Azaria as a world weary GP. It's quite an eye opener into the world of drug companies and the shameful extent to which they and their employees will go to nail the deal. The film however belongs to the lead couple. There is a wonderful chemistry between these two. Anne is just a tad unbelievable as a girl living on the edge, but only because she exudes so much niceness, her acting is fabulous. And Jake, what can I say about Jake that hasn't already been said? Warm, funny, gorgeous and rakish, what more could a girl want? Enjoy this lovely feel good movie. For all the sexuality in it it's not offensive at all and is really just a good old fashioned romance. Love and Other Drugs: Just the prescription needed for this jaded old soul. 8/10.

Devil

M. Night Shyamalan started off fairly well, although personally I didn't like '6th sense'. My favourites are 'The Village' and the much maligned but in my opinion utterly charming 'Lady in the Water'. He's well known for appearing in his movies, arrogantly assuming himself to be in the same category as Alfred Hitchcock. I'm increasingly worried for M. Night's safety as he's in danger of disappearing up his own lift shaft. Devil is mainly set in an elevator. There are five people trapped in the lift. All of them, it is revealed, have done dreadful things. There are people from the building trying to rectify the problem. Really inept people. The handsome Detective (last seen in Julie and Julia, Chris Messina) has a horrific past and is assigned to the case when strange things start happening as the lights sporadically go out in the lift and people start losing their lives, and marbles. Now I haven't had a huge amount of dealings with the police, but in Australia none of them looklike they do in American movies. I like to think all Police Officers look like filmstars in the US. A very religious security guard, viewing the shenanigans in the lift from a web cam is convinced it's the devil at work, and weaves the story into the film. How will it all end as one by one, the lift users begin to regret not taking the stairs. The acting is quite good, although they all seem so shifty and awful you almost sigh with relief when you don't have to hear them talk any more. The film has a surreal quality, which actually detracts from the tension and horror. The ending is satisfying, though predictable although you do almost feel as if you should be hearing a chorus of angels as the car drives off into the night. Apparently M. (is the M for something really embarrassing like Muriel?) Night is planning another eleven of these type of films. At least he keeps them quite short, and apart from the odd moment of boredom setting in during the lift scenes, quite entertaining in that predictable horror genre kind of way. The film isn't particularly gory either. There are some clues in the scenes and some red herrings, although when you watch one of M's films you're usually looking out for a sign of some sort aren't you? Devil: It's in the detail. 5/10.

Fair Game

The last time that Sean Penn and Naomi Watts acted together was in the excellent 21 grams. This is an equally harrowing tale, though for different reasons. Fair Game is based on a true story, although how true is difficult to judge as the story had to be gleaned from different sources as there is no official reports. Naomi Watts plays Valerie Plame, a CIA agent though to everyone except her husband and parents is a stocks trader. She is married to Joe Wilson (Sean Penn) who is an outspoken quite humourless and earnest democrat who demands the truth, even around the dinner table. Valerie is involved in the weapons of mass destruction period of history. Her and her colleagues are asked to find the truth surrounding whether or not Iraq had them or not, and more specifically whether aluminium tubing found was indeed for uranium and nuclear weapons or not. Valerie's husband Joe is asked to embark on a fact finding mission to Africa, to a country he knows well, Niger (irritatingly pronounced Neeeeeger so as not to be mixed with Nigeria). Joe goes to ascertain whether Neeeeeger is involved in the WMD or not. Joe finds all evidence to the negative, as do the CIA. This doesn't stop the US Government from stating as we all know, that Saddam Hussein was hiding Weapons of Mass Destruction. Valerie has also roped in an Iraqi Dr working in the US to go back to Iraq to question her brother, a scientist, about his knowledge of the hidden weapons. This family are lead to believe, as is Valerie that they will be helped by Uncle Sam to leave Iraq and live a life in safety in America. This does not happen. Due to Joe's outrage as the news is broadcast that an investigation in Neeeeger found evidence of WMD, he reveals that he was the source and that he found no such evidence. This leads to the CIA and The Vice President offering up Valerie as the sacrificial lamb and to her horror exposing her as an agent. Her friends are horrified, watch for her best friend, played by Brooke Smith, recognise her as Jame Gumb's lucky victim in Silence of the Lambs? Joe and Valerie's lives are torn apart as they have to face allegations from the public that they are communists and suffer death threats. Their marriage is in ruins as Valerie questions Joe's motives for speaking out. As you would expect, the performances are excellent. No one does outraged political correctness quite as well as Sean Penn. Naomi Watts is equally compelling, though slightly less self righteous. It's a difficult story to tell, at times it can veer into the uninteresting, although the subject itself isn't. We all know that faceless Government services would sell their Granny down the river for a promotion, but it's still quite shocking to see it happen. There is such opinion on this war, and although 'Fair Game' is very slanted to the against camp, it is more well balanced than expected. It's a worthy film, but not quite entertainment. FAIR GAME: War Games are rarely fair. 6/10.

Wild Target

This film is a remake of a French film 'Cible emouvante'. As sometimes happens in these cases, a little is lost in translation. It's the story of Rose (Emily Blunt) who has swindled a dashing 'business man' Rupert Everett with a fake painting. Rupert then sets the best of the best solitary assassin Victor Maynard (Bill Nighy) to dispose of Rose. Through a series of cock ups, Victor fails to follow the job through, and so the mayhem begins. Victor ends up becoming mesmerised by Rose, and a hapless Rupert Grint (Tony) gets pulled along for the ride. Chastised by his ruthless overbearing Mother (brilliant Eileen Atkins), hounded by the second best assassin in Britain (a fabulously fake tanned Martin Freeman) the three become embroiled in an adventure that makes them all realise the true meaning of life. The film has some really charming and funny moments. Emily Blunt is a lovely actress, but I don't quite believe her as the wild Rose. Bill Nighy is also an English stalwart, but he only ever really plays, well, Bill Nighy. Uptight and unemotional, speaking through closed lips and stiff limbed. Rupert Grint is great as the permanently stoned, sport loving spy apprentice Tony. Rupert Everett tends to steal the show a little as the handsome completely amoral businessman Ferguson. There are some quite dark moments which don't really tally well with the light 'four weddings' feel of the film. The scenes are almost comic book England, very beautiful but so cliched, even down to the stolen Mini Cooper. It's worth a look, but the ending is quite disconcerting. Children that kill animals are just not even vaguely amusing, people maybe, but not animals.
Wild Target: Just misses the mark. 6/10.

The American

Oh George, you silver haired fox you, can you do no wrong? Well yes actually you can with this clunker of a film. It begins in Scandanavia, after some thoroughly unwholesome activity in a log cabin, George and his squeeze go for a walk in the snow. Low and behold he is attacked by snipers and so the pursuit begins leaving a trail of blood but no police questioning in his wake. George or Edward as he calls himself, scarpers to Castel Del Monte in bella Italia, having been directed there by his boss to await further instructions. Whilst in this most picturesque of villages, he meets a sinful priest and a prostitute with ideas above her station. He is assigned a very covert operation involving a lady and a gun. All the while being pursued by a very inept hitman. Can this jaded gun for hire get out of the game alive? There are lots of meaningful looks and pauses (more constipated than pregnant) in this film. I know many women will dispute this but there are hundreds of things I would rather do than watch Mr Clooney assemble a gun for five minutes. Edward seems to be rather partial to three things in life, guns, sex and picnics. Admirable qualities in any man obviously, but in Edward it all comes across as slightly creepy. The scenes are tired and cliched. The story is old, so very old. Edward is warned not to make any 'friends', so he takes up with a hooker, only to fall in love with her probably because she is generally topless or dresses like a lady of the night, even on her days off. A keen lepidopterist, he has a tattoo of a butterfly on his back and is called by the ladies, "Mr Butterfly". There is a scene where he's at the most beautiful outdoor spot having a yes, you've guessed it, picnic with a lady. A butterfly lands on the woman's chest (it must have been called Edward) and Edward warns her to leave it, as it's endangered. Oh perleeeeaaase! The town where this all happens obviously has zero Police presence and noone actually lives there apparently, judging by the many cafes that are making no money whatsoever selling one 'Americano' a day to Edward. Perhaps we should all move there to improve the economy and boost the population, or perhaps that's what George was trying to do there. This film was so bland, it even made this town's architecture look dull. I am a huge fan of George Clooney and find him to be charming and a gifted actor. Everyone's allowed a little bump in the road occasionally I guess. The ending is so truly jaw droppingly predictable, you could almost hear me groan as the end credits came up. The American: The man from Del Monte says blah. 2/10.

RED

I'm beginning this post with a question. Who is in their seventies , sports a dodgy burgundy velour tracksuit and still manages to be sexier than most actors of any age today? Answer at the bottom of the page. Now on with the review. Bruce Willis plays Frank he's the titular RED (retired and extremely dangerous) from the CIA. He's also bored and lonely and strikes up a phone relationship with Sarah (Mary Louise Parker) who works for his pension company. When Frank's home is invaded by a mass of dead shot killers one night (although not dead shot enough to actually kill him, naturally) he enlists the help of his old work buddies to solve this political conundrum. Along for the ride is Sarah, whom Frank kidnaps to save her from the evil clutches of the Government. The old work buddies are his majesty Morgan Freeman, the reliably crazy and generous John Malkovitch, HRH Helen Mirren, sexy and charming as usual, and British stalwart but lesser known in the US, Brian Cox. The villainous scene chewing baddies are evil leprechaun Richard Dreyfuss and a simpering, cowardly Julian McMahon. The mayhem is followed by a super cool ice man CIA agent Karl Urban, (slightly reminiscent of Brad Pitt in looks) determined to stop Frank at all costs. The adventure that ensues is really great fun. It's full of ridiculous cartoon violence and John Malkovich is hilarious as the paranoid Marvin Boggs, though he's usually correct in his assumptions. The reviews for this movie aren't great, but honestly what do people expect? It's a real delight to see older actors having a really fabulous time camping it up on screen being tough guys. It's all tongue in cheek and there are some brilliant one liners. Bruce Willis is great, he's always had a lot of charisma, even if he can really only play one role, he does it well. If you want a rip roaring two hours of suspended belief, look no further than RED. Watch out for a spritely Ernest Borgnine as well. Answer: Morgan Freeman of course dreeeeammy! RED: Better RED than dead. 7/10.

Made in Dagenham

What a charming film this is. It's the dramatised story of a group of women who make car covers for the Ford car company in Dagenham, England in 1968. The company has downgraded their pay from semi-skilled to unskilled and the women are not happy. So begins a historic and little known fight, that broadens to gaining equal pay for women in the workplace globally. It's a really fascinating story. The initially reluctant leader of the female strikers is Rita O'Grady (Sally Hawkins) and fully supported by shop floor manager Albert (Bob Hoskins) and fellow worker Connie (Geraldine James). As you can imagine, there are many hurdles along the way. There are some poignant and emotional scenes. The film has an amazing '60s feel to it, unfortunately right down to the way that women were, and to some extent are, regarded in society. There are some staggering scenes of the Union bosses and Ministers and their cronies which just take your breath away with their deep rooted sexism. Even Rita's generally supportive and decent husband Eddie (Daniel Mays) has a layer of ingrained male superiority, which is still alive and well in the male species today. It doesn't feel weighed down or worthy, because as you would expect from a British film, it's full of earthy humour. The cast is a delight. The fashions are fabulous. The cause is just. A wonderful and heartwarming two hours. MADE IN DAGENHAM: Made me proud to have been made in Britain, and proud to be a woman. 8/10