What did you watch today?

[Vincent_Bouche]

Carnage (US Blu)
Funny with great performances by all actors, this is a typical Polanski "huis-clos", similar to what he did in "Death and the Maiden" or "The Tenant", but with a lighter tone - 7/10

[Ain_Uussaar]

Weekend Pass (1984)

[Noor_Razzak]

Inside Llewyn Davis - Loved the story of a down and out folk singer who simply can't catch a break. Another terrific film from the Coen Brothers, wonderful performances and an incredible soundtrack. 9/10.

[Samuel_Scott]

Last couple of days:

Girl Most Likely (2012) - The cast made this a little better than it actually was. A surprisingly good performance by Kristen Wiig, but Matt Dillon is a scene-stealer. 6/10

The Colony (2013) - Yawn. Got bored quite quick. Was a below average horror and one that just plodded along a little too slowly. 4/10

Virgin Witch (1972) - http://dvdcompare.net/review.php?rid=3311 - 5/10

Carrie (2013) - Not a bad remake, but it just does not get even close to the original. Wasn't too keen on the majority of the supporting cast which lessened my liking of it. 6/10

Scream of the Banshee (2011) - http://dvdcompare.net/review.php?rid=3313 - 4/10

[Noor_Razzak]

Finally got around to finishing Dollhouse, watched season 2 on Netflix. Sad this show was cancelled, it was pretty solid entertainment.

[Vincent_Bouche]

Polisse (French Blu)
Easily one of the best French movies of the past years, way above The Artist or Intouchables. Often moving, never complaisant, an authentic diving in the everyday life of a juvenile brigade. Dramatically funny at times, a real "tour de force" - 9/10.

[Chris_Xa]

Is this any good? A few times I've been about to play it via Netflix, but changed my mind.

THE CONSPIRACY (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2330322): Not for me - 2/10. From my notes:
Structured as a mystery that's light on interesting facts and heavy on BLAIR WITCH style (without the shaky camera or excellent last-5mins); below average direction of an ok script. Extra is an ok trailer. The imdb review(s) may give you a better overview, but there's far better fare to watch. Seen far better mockumentaries. The problem with this, tries to build tension artificially and not-very-believably... plus the "earth-shaking-conspiracy" barely registers on the Richter scale - given that we've been living in it (and have become "aware" of it from other sources).

The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (UK Blu-ray) - second viewing - Enjoyed this one at the cinema, but this was my first viewing on Blu-ray. I'm not a fan of Steve Carrell at all, but here he hit all the right spots. Surprisingly good, and a little underrated IMO. 7/10

4.25/10 for me: Ok direction, average script, entertaining comedy. Extras include good Gag Reel; ok Deleted Alternate scenes though most were unnecessary, and being cut improved film; average Steve Gray Uncut, Making Movie Magic With David Copperfield.

The Debt (USA Blu-ray) - first viewing - Helen Mirren and Tom Hiddlestone. What's not to like? Enjoyable spy thriller with a great cast. 7/10

Ok remake (very well produced), but I think I prefer the original.

A Separation (US Blu) - Even better than Le Passé, this is a great human drama, with wonderful actors, a great storytelling, a lot of suspense and many surprises - 9/10.

Agree with Vincent - 8.25/10 from me.

* AEON FLUX [Æon Flux, 2005] 5.5/10
The problem with immortality is standing still, mired, and not moving forward to hopefully something better — for fear of change, the unknown, the perceived loss of safety and security. Starcrossed entities — do emotional bonds transcend time and space? Average diretion of an ok script based on Peter Chung's work; good FX; ok and lavish production design. Agree with Margaret (http://www.abc.net.au/atthemovies/txt/s1588894.htm). Extras include ok Creating World, Locations, Costume; average commentaries, Stunts, Craft, trailer.

* THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX [2008] 4/10
How creations often come by accident. Society ingrains certain rules and behaviour, though it may seem odd by other cultures' standards. Imaginative world and ok layered script, but 2nd half devolves into a rather simplistic action affair, that does not maintained the complexities introduced in the first half; aimed at kids, ok direction given the material; also suffers protagonist's miscasting, for the voice is too mature and ill-fitting for the character. Extras include above average but somewhat EPK making; unnecessary Interactive Map; average games; below average Oversized Ears.

* THE SECRET DIARIES OF MISS ANNE LISTER [2010] 4.25/10
The selflessness and selfishness of love. Love triangles. Wanting it all at the expence of another; willingly misguided in hope; a sadomasochistic relationship. Naive dreams against the world's and social realities; to find a person strong and willing enough to share such naive dreams. Ok direction of an average script, of a tale of love and choices. Extras include good Real Anne Lister With Sue Perkins, ok Maxine Peake Conversation James Kent.

* WALL STREET: MONEY NEVER SLEEPS [#2, 2010] 5/10
The state of the economy at 2008. "When everyone's running for the lifeboats, who's going to care?" (Gekko) "...supposed to make each other feel safe. Otherwise what's the point?" (Winnie) "Every thief has some excuse. .....definition of insanity...doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result." (Jake) "...privatize the gains, socialize the losses." (anon) Good direction by Oliver Stone from an ok but somewhat aimless script. Extras include good commentary; ok but unnecessary deleted scenes with ok commentary; ok Trailers, Character (Douglas, Mulligan, Langella) segments; average Conversation, Money Money Money (except ok Tour segment); EPK Character (Labeouf, Brolin) segments, Return Bud Fox. Agree with both Margaret & David (http://www.abc.net.au/atthemovies/txt/s3005042.htm), though split-screens are not distracting and the extra characters are ok; ok director and stars interviews.

* WALL STREET [1987] 5.5/10
Dealing with the devil. Pitfalls of blind ambition; consequences of betraying trust, greed, living off at others' expense. Good direction by Oliver Stone and ok script with Stanley Weiser. Extras include good director commentary; interesting but unnecessary deleted scenes with good director commentary; average Greed Good, making, trailers; EPK introduction. Agree with Margaret (http://www.sbs.com.au/ondemand/video/11 ... all-Street).

* LES COUSINS [1959] 3.5/10
Country mouse visits a city relative, learning fast about life and love in the bejeweled city. When subtle corruption and jealousy leads to the despondency of the inexperienced/youth. Consequences of too much play, and getting into a bad habit of constantly taking everything without any seriousness. Living, getting caught in the moment, and not considering a long term future view. Not bad direction by Claude Chabrol from an average script, with an ok ending; film has not aged well however. Ok Adrian Martin commentary.

* Free Kick [Libre Directo, 2011 short] 5.5/10
To escape an overbearing lifestyle; doing something for oneself. Amusing direction by Bernabe Rico of an ok script, though disappointing in its climax.

* ERIN BROCKOVICH [2000] 8/10
Quite good direction by Steven Soderbergh; good script by Susannah Grant based on a true story; well acted. "...David vs and what's-his-name's whole...family." (Ed) Extras include sparse Isolated music; ok making, Real Erin Brockovich, deleted scenes (though unnecessary, with ok director commentary).

* Ronaldo [Swiss 2010 short] 2/10 Finding playmates in the strangest of guises. Copying and using one's environment to hone skills. Average script and direction that is overly stylistic.

* ADMISSION [2013] 4.5/10
Well acted and directed by Paul Weitz from an average script (based on a book), with ok twists at the end which steer film away from predictability. "...reject being put into a box..." (John) Parents' relationships with their children, and how they inadvertently shape their destinies; family issues; seeking an emotional connection. Choices reflect our personalities. Extra is EPK Early Admission.

* BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS [Part 1+2, 2012+2013 DC animation] 8/10
"We must believe we can all defeat our own private demons." (Bruce) Ok animation, very good direction and script adaptation of the graphic novel. When superheroes get old. Problems with blind obedience to authority, when that authority is abused. A symbol to believe in is to remind ourselves of our capabilities. A much darker tale than usual. Extras include average Batman Me Devotion Destiny Bob Kane Story.

* FOUR HOLIDAYS [FOUR CHRISTMASES, 2008] 3.5/10
"How can you really appreciate someone for who they are, unless you know them?" (Courtney) When an uncomfortable image when a mirror is held up to one's relationship. When one outgrows the other in a relationship. Attempting to keep the flame alive in a relationship. "...so hurt from...childhood...trying to not have the same outcome in [adult] lives." (Vaughn) "...who you wanna be is confronted by who you used to be..." (Seth Gordon) Feels somewhat rushed, and should have been a bit longer; otherwise ok script and direction. Extras include ok trailer; average Gag Reel; below average Seven Layer Holiday Meals; EPK Holiday Moments, Behind Madness; ok but mostly unnecessary Additional Scenes, except Seven Layer Salad, Mantel Photo, Photo At Paula's and Family Reunion that should have remained in film.

* DAMSELS IN DISTRESS [2011] 4.5/10
"We're all flawed. Must that render us mute to the flaws of others?" (Violet) Charming direction in the tradition of Woody Allen, average inconsequential script. A part ode to 1950s musical films. Attempting to give guidance and certainty, whilst being uncertain and guideless. A look at college life and pretentions of intelligence and wisdom. Dancing a cure for depression? Mostly agree with both David & Margaret (http://www.abc.net.au/atthemovies/txt/s3566406.htm); ok director interview. Extras include good deleted scenes that should have remained in film; ok Behind Scenes, Evening, outakes; average commentary, trailer.

* JOE MADDISON'S WAR [2010] 3.25/10
Finding a ray of hope through help and support by friends, after some poor mishaps and outlook. A brief glimpse into the Home Guard during WW2, and the women around them. Average script and direction.

* Nullarbor [Australia 2011 short] 4.75/10
Kharmic consequences of ill-tempered driving. Amusing script by Alister Lockhart & Patrick Sarell, who also directed it well. Encapsulates some of Australia's road characteristics.

* SOMETHING FROM NOTHING: THE ART OF RAP [2012 roco] 3.75/10
"...film about the craft. What it takes to write a rap; what goes on inside the head of the masters." (Ice T) "...collection of interviews...state of hip hop...conversation..." (filmakers) Thoughts on rap from the artists themselves, a conversation between artists than a traditonal examination of the art, interspersed with many mini-performances/demonstations — though at times suffers from what feels like a bit of self-promotion; more a love-letter/self-promotion of the art by the artists, than a mainstream examination or a historical dissection. How some of the artists begun their art. Rap is the black man's rebelling against the status quo, as well as modern street poetry. The difference between an MC and a rapper. How verbal battling begun, from the dozens tradition, and how it led to rapping. "...black experience in urban America... .....rap...appropriated by...industry..." (Gaye Theresa Johnson) Extras include good making, Historical Perspective; below average Ice-T and Toogood commentaries (should have been combined into one, as they're too interspersed — like they're watching the film more than commenting upon it); ok-to-average interviews (which were deleted scenes).

* WARM BODIES [2013] 5.75/10
A zombie's poiny-of-view. Evolution (& devolution) of a zombie. To relive, enjoy what life has to offer. The power of memories. Youth want change and rebellion against the old conservatist status quo. Ok cinematography and amusing direction and script, based on the book in a somewhat original/unique ROMEO & JULIET take. We live by interacting with others, with life; life needs other life to progress. Agree with both Margaret & David (http://www.abc.net.au/atthemovies/txt/s3720873.htm). Extras include unnecessary deleted scenes (alternate versions change film for the worse); ok Extreme Zombie Make-Over, Beware Boneys; average Wreck In Progress, Bustin Caps; poor Zombie Acting Tips With Rob Cordry; EPK Boy Meets Doesn't Eat Girl, R&J, Little Less Dead, Whimsical Sweetness, Shrug Groan.

* Getting aHead [Oz 2012 puppet-ani short] 4.5/10
Drive to make a friend, but not thinking "ahead" becomes a Sisyphian tale of contant do and repeating the same mistake. Ok direction and script by Norman Yeend, average animation.

* GIGOLA [2010] 3/10
How love can't be bought. Seeking validation and attention from the dominant females in one's life. A look at a female homosexual 1960s Paris scene, and may seem more tolerant than it may have been. An independent spirit asserting her authority on the world around her. Average production design, script and direction that is uncertain what story it wants to tell; based on the novel.

* How The Light Gets In [Oz 2013 doco short] 4.75/10
A mother recounts the experience of losing a baby, and how it manifests itself into her art. The various aspects of her life and nature, that she draws insiration from. Finding solace and comfort in one's work and art. Glimpses into the artist Susie Dureau's psychology. Well and compassionately directed, with almost no script.

* RAMBO: FIRST BLOOD PART II [1985] 6.25/10
"To survive war...gotta become war." (Rambo) Good action and direction to the point, from a quite ok script (with political overtones) and cinematography (with many "iconic" shots/imagery that have become action film templates); ok production design with a few poor decisions (eg Huey helicopters in the Russian arsenal). The desire to be appreciated for one's sacrifices, and not be "expendable". Extra includes quite ok Sly Rambo Interview Paris 2008.

* RAMBO III [1988] 4/10
"God must love crazy people...make so many of them." (Mousa) Ok but unremarkable action and production design, average script and direction with strong propaganda elements.

* UNDEFEATED [2011 doco] 3.75/10
"It's not where you start, it's...where you finish." (Aaron Hayden) "...try to do the right thing...people will help you... .....true measure of...character is how...handle [defeat]. .....players win games...All coaches do, is try to head them in the right direction." (Bill Courtney) Trying to build up an under-priviliged team and its confidence with minimum resources, to improve and discipline young mens' lives and attitudes. Devoting one's life to their passion, dealing with stubborn self-destructive young personalities, sacrificing family time to help others. Average direction and editing, photography and sound. Ok trailer; not a bad Oscar doco nominee.

* GO FAST [Fr 2008] 3.5/10
Like a well-oiled machine, efficiency of well-tuned operations with all fat trimmed, where self interest with total commitment and ruthlessness obtain the best operators: Capitalism in its ultimate form, where predators rule. Very much style over substance; though based on real events the script is quite contrived with average direction, but ok photography & editing.

* THE BATTLE OF THE SEXES [2013 doco] 6.5/10
A brief history of women's (lack of) rights in late 1960s to early 1970s. The battle for women's pro tennis, equality, respect, appreciation. "...most common conflict in the world: man vs woman...happens every day, in every household..." (Lornie Kuhle) Good editing by Adam Recht, and direction by James Erskine & Zara Hayes.

* CHARLIE & BOOTS [2009] 2.75/10
One way to escape the doldrums. "Time waits for no man, and very few women." (Charlie) Different ways of dealing with loss. Below average script, direction and road movie without much sightseeing, and little character resolution. Whilst dramatically ok, protagonists' performances left much wanting if one expects comedy; they either played it too laid back, or seemed somewhat ill at ease. Extras include ok making; poor commentary; below average & mostly epk EPK Webisodes; EPK 60 Minutes, Interviews, Behind Scenes, Red Carpet. Disagree with both Margaret & David (http://www.abc.net.au/atthemovies/txt/s2656452.htm).

* Seven Minutes In The Warsaw Ghetto [Dk 2012 ani short] 2.25/10
How a small ray of pleasure can so easily be extinguished, during life under Nazi-occupied Warsaw Ghetto. Average animation and direction of an ok script.

* Retention [Undocumented, Fr 2012 short] 4/10
Anne azoulay. Trying to use the system to help, but thwarted by the system's other arms. Average direction and script.

* SENNA [extended, 2010 doco] 6.25/10
The politics of F1 motor racing. When a rivalry hurts the sport, but improves its profile. A great sportsman pulls everything from themselves to complete a goal, even if it seems superhuman. To measure oneself against the best is to go up against them on the same arena; make the most of the given gift. Should a given gift not be used to its utmost, pursued to its logical end? Gaining immortality through one's famed accomplishments. The art of racing. Extras include good commentary, incorporated Interviews (this is the extra material intercut into Theatrical cut to create the Extended cut); ok Lost Interview; Greatest Victory advertising. Extended cut becomes the better version over the theatrical film, but suffers from not including these interviewees' names during the extended film's viewing; feels complete compared to the theatrical version; ok direction by Asif Kapadia and editing by Gregers Sall & Chris King. Agree with both Margaret & David (http://www.abc.net.au/atthemovies/txt/s3274719.htm).

* FREEDOM (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0928385): Though animation is officially offputting, the scifi elements eventually grab and make it a decent watch. Recommend you watch in the original Japanese language. A battle of old vs new, conservative vs liberal views, hope vs wariness.

[Ain_Uussaar]

House of Versace
The Campaign - Extended Cut
The Professionals

[Samuel_Scott]

Is this any good? A few times I've been about to play it via Netflix, but changed my mind.

THE CONSPIRACY (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2330322): Not for me - 2/10. From my notes:
Structured as a mystery that's light on interesting facts and heavy on BLAIR WITCH style (without the shaky camera or excellent last-5mins); below average direction of an ok script. Extra is an ok trailer. The imdb review(s) may give you a better overview, but there's far better fare to watch. Seen far better mockumentaries. The problem with this, tries to build tension artificially and not-very-believably... plus the "earth-shaking-conspiracy" barely registers on the Richter scale - given that we've been living in it (and have become "aware" of it from other sources).

I guess I'll skip for the moment then. Thanks!


Cheap Thrills (2013) - http://dvdcompare.net/review.php?rid=3318 - Deliciously dark, and well worth a watch, just not on the UK DVD which is a NTSC->PAL transfer. 7/10
David Koechner retweeted us! https://twitter.com/dvdcompare/status/4 ... 0611226624

Wayne's World (1992) - Seen so many times, but still cracks me up, especially the Bohemian Rhapsody and Foxy Lady scenes. 8/10

Code Name Geronimo: The Hunt for Osama Bin Laden (2012) - http://dvdcompare.net/review.php?rid=3319 - Okay, so it's your average TV fare, but a good cast, and they did well to characterise the soldiers and CIA workers. John Stockwell is an underrated director IMO, and people need to check out his most underrated, Cheaters (based on a true story). 6/10

[Ain_Uussaar]

Streets of Fire

[Samuel_Scott]

What Doesn't Kill You (2008) - http://dvdcompare.net/review.php?rid=3320 - Surprisingly good crime thriller. Ethan Hawke and Mark Ruffalo work very well together. 7/10

[Vincent_Bouche]

Dexter: Season 7 (UK Blu)
Again, a great season: it's amazing to see how writers manage to renew the show, but still keep intact the identity and thematics. Between the russian mob, getting involved with a female killer and LaGuerta leading its own investigation on the Bay Harbor Butcher, Dexter has a lot to do! 8/10

Michael Kohlaas (TV)
French movie with Mads Mikkelsen in which a horse merchant tries to get justice after he is conned by a local baron. This reminds of Braveheart, but never really takes off - 5/10

[Davy_Lee]

METEOR (First viewing; YouTube) - 7/10

This is one of the few disaster films of the 70's I missed watching on vhs. Disaster film is one of my favourite genres. I decided to watch it as Sean Connery stars in it and the blu-ray is coming out soon. I rarely blind-buy so I have to make sure I enjoy the film . As far as disaster films of the 70's go, this is quite enjoyable.

[Ain_Uussaar]

The Day (2011)
The Reunion (2011)

[Samuel_Scott]

Last couple of days:

Dial M for Murder (1954) - One of my favourite Hitchcock films. 9/10

We're the Millers (2013) - One of the funniest comedies of 2013 IMO. Still funny a second time round. 8/10

Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe (1991) - http://dvdcompare.net/review.php?rid=3322 8/10

Battle of the Year (2013) - Another entry into the 'only the dance scenes are any good' dance genre. Step Up are still the best series in the sub-genre, and they aren't exactly great themselves. 4/10

[Ain_Uussaar]

The Losers (2010)
The Sitter (2011)
The Incredibles (2004)

[Vincent_Bouche]

To the Wonder (French Blu)
"Lesser" film by Terrence Malick, beautifully shot but something's missing. Still hypnotic, as Tree of Life - 7/10

[Ain_Uussaar]

The Expendables 3

[Samuel_Scott]

Runner Runner (2013) - Most of my friends hated this, I thought it was entertaining enough. Far from great, but fun. 6/10

In Security (2014) - Not bad. Some good ideas, but it becomes a little slow, despite the relatively short run time. 5/10

Sophie's Choice (1982) - http://dvdcompare.net/review.php?rid=3323 8/10

[Davy_Lee]

THE ABOMINABLE DR. PHIBES (First viewing; YouTube) - 8.5/10

I've only watched few Vincent Price's films: House Of Wax, Theatre of Blood, House of the Long Shadows. Never seen this before as I am not a huge fan of Price, but this one is certainly one of his best films that I've seen. Thinking of getting The Complete Dr. Phibes Arrow blu-ray set.