DVD Releases for March 29, 2011

Time to look at a selection of what is out this week on DVD.

• Heartless absolutely phenomenal film that I had a chance to see last year at the Toronto After Dark Film Festival and it's stuck with me ever since, and I'm thrilled to see it on DVD. Stars Jim Sturgess, it's dark, it's creepy and it's brilliant. Directed by Philip Ridley (US release date April 12, 2011).
• Made In Dagenham I think this my biggest "I can't believe I didn't see it!" from last year, a historical / biopic on the 1968 strike at the Ford Dagenham in response to sexual discrimination.
• Fair Game more historicalness with this Naomi Watts & Sean Penn starring flick based on a CIA operative whose cover is blown.
• Waste Land I've only heard amazing things about this documentary that combines art and garbage.
• L'Appat / The Bait stars Guy A. Lepage & Rachid Badouri in a crime/comedy with a Quebec and French crime fighters who have to work together.
• Colony documentary on the Colony Collapse Disorder phenomenon that has left empty beehives across America.
• Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance Japanese animated film following new pilots introduced to NERV.
• Kenny Chesney - Summer in 3D concert documentary in 3D
• Topsy-Turvy (Criterion) Thrilled to see this one hit Criterion, absolutely wonderful film filled with humour, inspiration and lovely lively moments.
• Mad Men Season 4 Hugely popular 60's set ad firm TV show latest season hits DVD
• Treme: The Complete First Season I actually have no idea what this one is about, and with a tag line of "Won't Bow Don't Know How." that doesn't enlighten me at all, but I do know it's another highly acclaimed TV show.
• Tangled Disney does Rapunzel with many editions to choose from.
• Black Swan thriller starring now Oscar winning Natalie Portman as a dancer on brink of obsession and perfection.

Titles on Amazon.ca(Canada):


Titles on Amazon.com (US):


Heartless will be available on Amazon.com on April 12, 2011 & L'Appat / The Bait currently not available on amazon.com.

DVD Releases for March 29, 2011

Time to look at a selection of what is out this week on DVD.

• Heartless absolutely phenomenal film that I had a chance to see last year at the Toronto After Dark Film Festival and it's stuck with me ever since, and I'm thrilled to see it on DVD. Stars Jim Sturgess, it's dark, it's creepy and it's brilliant. Directed by Philip Ridley (US release date April 12, 2011).
• Made In Dagenham I think this my biggest "I can't believe I didn't see it!" from last year, a historical / biopic on the 1968 strike at the Ford Dagenham in response to sexual discrimination.
• Fair Game more historicalness with this Naomi Watts & Sean Penn starring flick based on a CIA operative whose cover is blown.
• Waste Land I've only heard amazing things about this documentary that combines art and garbage.
• L'Appat / The Bait stars Guy A. Lepage & Rachid Badouri in a crime/comedy with a Quebec and French crime fighters who have to work together.
• Colony documentary on the Colony Collapse Disorder phenomenon that has left empty beehives across America.
• Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance Japanese animated film following new pilots introduced to NERV.
• Kenny Chesney - Summer in 3D concert documentary in 3D
• Topsy-Turvy (Criterion) Thrilled to see this one hit Criterion, absolutely wonderful film filled with humour, inspiration and lovely lively moments.
• Mad Men Season 4 Hugely popular 60's set ad firm TV show latest season hits DVD
• Treme: The Complete First Season I actually have no idea what this one is about, and with a tag line of "Won't Bow Don't Know How." that doesn't enlighten me at all, but I do know it's another highly acclaimed TV show.
• Tangled Disney does Rapunzel with many editions to choose from.
• Black Swan thriller starring now Oscar winning Natalie Portman as a dancer on brink of obsession and perfection.

Titles on Amazon.ca(Canada):


Titles on Amazon.com (US):


Heartless will be available on Amazon.com on April 12, 2011 & L'Appat / The Bait currently not available on amazon.com.

Sucker Punch

Dir: Zack Snyder (Watchmen, Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, 300)
Cast: Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, Vanessa Hudgens, Jamie Chung, Jena Malone, Carla Gugino, Oscar Isaac, Jon Hamm, Scott Glenn
USA/Canada, 2011

Seen: March 26, 2011 at Scotiabank

Reason to see: I can't imagine *not* seeing Sucker Punch.

I had a lot of hesitations going into Sucker Punch. The trailer made it look like an action video game with a female character, where every time she attacks, kicks or flips, her skirt flips up for the benefit of the (likely male) player. But, I've also been pleasantly suprirzed by director Zack Snyder work before with 300 and Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, however wasn't a fan of Watchmen - but that's a film that's clearly for the fans.

But, considering even a slight possibility to enjoy it and that it had an awesome female cast, I knew I had to give it a chance. The film follows Baby Doll (Emily Browning), who is sent to an insane asylum where she meets fellow inmates Sweet Pea (Abbie Cornish), Blondie (Vanessa Hudgens), Amber (Jamie Chung) and Rocket (Jena Malone) along with Dr. Vera Gorski (Carla Gugino) and caretaker-type Blue (Oscar Isaac).

I'll give the film a few things right off the bat, which is some amazing visual storytelling and great song integration that me impressed right from the get go. Okay, maybe that's the short list of the kudos as it's hard to get too praise-y about a film that I felt really complicated about, especially in terms of the gender dynamics.

I felt divided about the film on several counts. On one hand, I'm impressed that they went for something a bit different, but on the other I'm not sure I entirely understood the film. And I was in part impressed and surprized that it's not as clear cut as the trailers made out but I'm still not sure what it was trying to say. I almost added a 'if it's trying to say anything', but I'm fairly sure it is trying to say something and even been possibly positive and encouraging, but I"m not totallu sure. I did appreciate that it was very aware of and commented on the sleeziness of watching women in this light, but that feels very watered down when we, you know, actually see the women scantily clad, imprisoned, being broken and under a constant state of threat. It's like when someone says "I don't mean to offend you but...", whatever comes after that... is always offensive, so maybe it's better just not to say it. A disclaimer doesn't forgive the actions. But, I will give that that particular message of how it's creepy - certainly wasn't directed at me, but likely my male audience buddies. Which in one way I applaud, as it holds up the mirror to them, but on the other hand I think it's a bit mean to the nice guys out there as well as being redundant, as we still get to see knee high'ed women kicking, jumping and smishing stuff. I also found it concurrently confusing and over-explain-y, which I don't even know how that could be possible.

One of the things I did love in the film though, was the women. Jena Malone as Rocket in particular, she was fierce and compelling. I also enjoyed the fact that Baby Doll was a strong character, in contrast to outward appearances and stereotypes. I also continue to love Carla Gugino in everything, and Oscar Isaac is creepier than anyone ever needs to be as Blue. I also loved the clothes. Creepiness aside, a lot of the clothes were awesome.

So, I'm left very divided. Was this film actually made with me being the audience member? It might have been. Sucker Punch ended up being both better than I anticipated, and more annoying. What was it trying to say? I don't know. I went in cautiously curious and left both charmed and confused. I'm stumped. I might have been happier to hate it, but I didn't. There's a lot interesting going on here, I'm not certain to all of what it is.

Shannon's Overall View:
It was both better than and worse than I expected
I would watch it again
It's a bit of a challenge to recommend given the gender stuff, but I think that it would appeal to people that are interested in gender dynamics as well as action films

Also see: All 2011 Films Reviewed and All Film Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2011

Sucker Punch

Dir: Zack Snyder (Watchmen, Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, 300)
Cast: Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, Vanessa Hudgens, Jamie Chung, Jena Malone, Carla Gugino, Oscar Isaac, Jon Hamm, Scott Glenn
USA/Canada, 2011

Seen: March 26, 2011 at Scotiabank

Reason to see: I can't imagine *not* seeing Sucker Punch.

I had a lot of hesitations going into Sucker Punch. The trailer made it look like an action video game with a female character, where every time she attacks, kicks or flips, her skirt flips up for the benefit of the (likely male) player. But, I've also been pleasantly suprirzed by director Zack Snyder work before with 300 and Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, however wasn't a fan of Watchmen - but that's a film that's clearly for the fans.

But, considering even a slight possibility to enjoy it and that it had an awesome female cast, I knew I had to give it a chance. The film follows Baby Doll (Emily Browning), who is sent to an insane asylum where she meets fellow inmates Sweet Pea (Abbie Cornish), Blondie (Vanessa Hudgens), Amber (Jamie Chung) and Rocket (Jena Malone) along with Dr. Vera Gorski (Carla Gugino) and caretaker-type Blue (Oscar Isaac).

I'll give the film a few things right off the bat, which is some amazing visual storytelling and great song integration that me impressed right from the get go. Okay, maybe that's the short list of the kudos as it's hard to get too praise-y about a film that I felt really complicated about, especially in terms of the gender dynamics.

I felt divided about the film on several counts. On one hand, I'm impressed that they went for something a bit different, but on the other I'm not sure I entirely understood the film. And I was in part impressed and surprized that it's not as clear cut as the trailers made out but I'm still not sure what it was trying to say. I almost added a 'if it's trying to say anything', but I'm fairly sure it is trying to say something and even been possibly positive and encouraging, but I"m not totallu sure. I did appreciate that it was very aware of and commented on the sleeziness of watching women in this light, but that feels very watered down when we, you know, actually see the women scantily clad, imprisoned, being broken and under a constant state of threat. It's like when someone says "I don't mean to offend you but...", whatever comes after that... is always offensive, so maybe it's better just not to say it. A disclaimer doesn't forgive the actions. But, I will give that that particular message of how it's creepy - certainly wasn't directed at me, but likely my male audience buddies. Which in one way I applaud, as it holds up the mirror to them, but on the other hand I think it's a bit mean to the nice guys out there as well as being redundant, as we still get to see knee high'ed women kicking, jumping and smishing stuff. I also found it concurrently confusing and over-explain-y, which I don't even know how that could be possible.

One of the things I did love in the film though, was the women. Jena Malone as Rocket in particular, she was fierce and compelling. I also enjoyed the fact that Baby Doll was a strong character, in contrast to outward appearances and stereotypes. I also continue to love Carla Gugino in everything, and Oscar Isaac is creepier than anyone ever needs to be as Blue. I also loved the clothes. Creepiness aside, a lot of the clothes were awesome.

So, I'm left very divided. Was this film actually made with me being the audience member? It might have been. Sucker Punch ended up being both better than I anticipated, and more annoying. What was it trying to say? I don't know. I went in cautiously curious and left both charmed and confused. I'm stumped. I might have been happier to hate it, but I didn't. There's a lot interesting going on here, I'm not certain to all of what it is.

Shannon's Overall View:
It was both better than and worse than I expected
I would watch it again
It's a bit of a challenge to recommend given the gender stuff, but I think that it would appeal to people that are interested in gender dynamics as well as action films

Also see: All 2011 Films Reviewed and All Film Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2011

Water for Elephants (Book Review)

Book: Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

Reason to Read: March Book Selection for the Book to Film Club, and I've only heard good things about it.

Wow. Where to start. I guess firstly I found Water For Elephants more than a little surprizing in terms of my reaction to the book. After all the love I've heard for it and reading several rave reviews, I was off to a very rocky start as I initially did not connect to the characters, story or setting. In fact, if it wasn't for the book club I would have actually put the book down after only reading a few chapters and gone onto the next book on my list. But, that wouldn't be setting the best example, so I kept on trudging though and eventually did start to make a connection, albeit never super strong.

I'll give it that it was a swift read and I enjoyed the circus setting, and did eventually start to warm over to the characters but had trouble connecting with the protagonist Jacob as he's well... so male. I guess I've really been reading books with female protagonists because I found this quite the change of pace and I was pretty impatient with Jacob, which feels pretty mean considering he starts off the journey with pretty devastating circumstances. And that was hard too, the setting and time period are during challenging times where everyone is really struggling and have very limited choices, which can lead to desperate acts, actions and reactions. I'm not a fan of that.

So, it certainly wasn't what I was expected. It reminded me of when people call something 'inspiring' but when I see it, it feels like the majority of it is bleak and then the inspiring part is because of the high contrast. I did absolutely adore a lot of the animal focus though, without that I'd have had a lot of trouble making in through.

I think the casting in the film is absolutely perfect though. Robert Pattinson (Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse) as Jacob is a great fit, as are Reese Witherspoon as Marlena and Christoph Waltz as August. From the trailer I can say I'm totally loving the whimsical and slightly magical tone to the film, and the period feels like it's been captured with both quaintness and weariness that feel authentic and glamorous. The film is directed by Francis Lawrence, and I absolute loved the art direction an styling of Constantine, so with that in mind and the beauty of the trailer I have a feeling that I'll be captivated by the film, likely more so than the book.

Water for Elephants is our April Film selection for the Book to Film Club. The film will be released Friday April 22, 2011. See film review of Water for Elephants here.

Water for Elephants (Book Review)

Book: Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

Reason to Read: March Book Selection for the Book to Film Club, and I've only heard good things about it.

Wow. Where to start. I guess firstly I found Water For Elephants more than a little surprizing in terms of my reaction to the book. After all the love I've heard for it and reading several rave reviews, I was off to a very rocky start as I initially did not connect to the characters, story or setting. In fact, if it wasn't for the book club I would have actually put the book down after only reading a few chapters and gone onto the next book on my list. But, that wouldn't be setting the best example, so I kept on trudging though and eventually did start to make a connection, albeit never super strong.

I'll give it that it was a swift read and I enjoyed the circus setting, and did eventually start to warm over to the characters but had trouble connecting with the protagonist Jacob as he's well... so male. I guess I've really been reading books with female protagonists because I found this quite the change of pace and I was pretty impatient with Jacob, which feels pretty mean considering he starts off the journey with pretty devastating circumstances. And that was hard too, the setting and time period are during challenging times where everyone is really struggling and have very limited choices, which can lead to desperate acts, actions and reactions. I'm not a fan of that.

So, it certainly wasn't what I was expected. It reminded me of when people call something 'inspiring' but when I see it, it feels like the majority of it is bleak and then the inspiring part is because of the high contrast. I did absolutely adore a lot of the animal focus though, without that I'd have had a lot of trouble making in through.

I think the casting in the film is absolutely perfect though. Robert Pattinson (Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse) as Jacob is a great fit, as are Reese Witherspoon as Marlena and Christoph Waltz as August. From the trailer I can say I'm totally loving the whimsical and slightly magical tone to the film, and the period feels like it's been captured with both quaintness and weariness that feel authentic and glamorous. The film is directed by Francis Lawrence, and I absolute loved the art direction an styling of Constantine, so with that in mind and the beauty of the trailer I have a feeling that I'll be captivated by the film, likely more so than the book.

Water for Elephants is our April Film selection for the Book to Film Club. The film will be released Friday April 22, 2011. See film review of Water for Elephants here.

Book to Film Club March 2011: Water for Elephants (Book)

The Book to Film Club book selection for March was the novel Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen, which follows a veterinary student who runs away with the travelling circus as their vet. I had heard a lot of love for this book before diving been, so it surprized me that I didn't latch on to it right away. How about you? Did you connect to it right away or did it take a bit? Or, have you even finished it yet? If so, have you reviewed it? Here are some questions to ponder when thinking about the book and the upcoming film adaptation. Feel free to review it and if you comment or send me the link I'll add it to the list, or you can always journal your thought as well.

Things to ponder on the book:
Did you enjoy reading it?
Was it what you were expecting?
What did you know about the book before reading it?
What did you take away from reading the book?
Who would you recommend the book to?

If this was a re-read:
How did reading it this time compare with your previous time reading it?
Did you notice anything different this time round?
Did your interest and focus stay on the same characters and moments, or shift?

About the upcoming film adaptations:
How do you feel about the casting of the film?
What do you hope to be the focus of the film?
What do you think is essential to keep from the book in the film?
What do you think they can trim away from the book to the film?
What do you think the challenges of the adaptation may be?
Do you have any hesitations on the adaptation?
What are you most looking forward to about the film adaptation?

Water for Elephants Book Reviews by Book to Film Clubbers:

• Shannon
• Norlinda
  

Water for Elephants will be out April Film Selection for the Book to Film Club. Follows a veterinary student who runs away with the traveling circus as their vet. The Film adaptation stars Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon, Christoph Waltz, James Frain, Hal Holbrook and Paul Schneider, directed by Francis Lawrence (Constantine, I Am Legend). The film comes out April 22, 2011 and you can see the trailer below. I love the tone captured in the trailer, even thought it's completely a different vibe I got from the book. Really looking forward to seeing the film.

Book to Film Club March 2011: Water for Elephants (Book)

The Book to Film Club book selection for March was the novel Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen, which follows a veterinary student who runs away with the travelling circus as their vet. I had heard a lot of love for this book before diving been, so it surprized me that I didn't latch on to it right away. How about you? Did you connect to it right away or did it take a bit? Or, have you even finished it yet? If so, have you reviewed it? Here are some questions to ponder when thinking about the book and the upcoming film adaptation. Feel free to review it and if you comment or send me the link I'll add it to the list, or you can always journal your thought as well.

Things to ponder on the book:
Did you enjoy reading it?
Was it what you were expecting?
What did you know about the book before reading it?
What did you take away from reading the book?
Who would you recommend the book to?

If this was a re-read:
How did reading it this time compare with your previous time reading it?
Did you notice anything different this time round?
Did your interest and focus stay on the same characters and moments, or shift?

About the upcoming film adaptations:
How do you feel about the casting of the film?
What do you hope to be the focus of the film?
What do you think is essential to keep from the book in the film?
What do you think they can trim away from the book to the film?
What do you think the challenges of the adaptation may be?
Do you have any hesitations on the adaptation?
What are you most looking forward to about the film adaptation?

Water for Elephants Book Reviews by Book to Film Clubbers:

• Shannon
• Norlinda
  

Water for Elephants will be out April Film Selection for the Book to Film Club. Follows a veterinary student who runs away with the traveling circus as their vet. The Film adaptation stars Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon, Christoph Waltz, James Frain, Hal Holbrook and Paul Schneider, directed by Francis Lawrence (Constantine, I Am Legend). The film comes out April 22, 2011 and you can see the trailer below. I love the tone captured in the trailer, even thought it's completely a different vibe I got from the book. Really looking forward to seeing the film.

Poll Results: What March Release Are You Most Looking Forward To?

A clear winner in the poll this time round with Battle: Los Angeles coming in at 30% for your the March Release you are most looking forward to, with Sucker Punch not that far behind with 21%. Seems like high flying action and alien invasions are all the rage! Get more classical are the ties with Jane Eyre and Red Riding Hood which tied at 12%, and a little more adventure with romance with both The Adjustment Bureau and Beastly at 9%. Rounding out the votes are the unlikely duo of Hobo with a Shotgun and The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom at 3%.

30% - Battle: Los Angeles
21% - Sucker Punch
12% - Tie: Jane Eyre and Red Riding Hood
9% - Tie: The Adjustment Bureau and Beastly
3% - Tie: Hobo with a Shotgun and The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom

thanks for voting!

Poll Results: What March Release Are You Most Looking Forward To?

A clear winner in the poll this time round with Battle: Los Angeles coming in at 30% for your the March Release you are most looking forward to, with Sucker Punch not that far behind with 21%. Seems like high flying action and alien invasions are all the rage! Get more classical are the ties with Jane Eyre and Red Riding Hood which tied at 12%, and a little more adventure with romance with both The Adjustment Bureau and Beastly at 9%. Rounding out the votes are the unlikely duo of Hobo with a Shotgun and The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom at 3%.

30% - Battle: Los Angeles
21% - Sucker Punch
12% - Tie: Jane Eyre and Red Riding Hood
9% - Tie: The Adjustment Bureau and Beastly
3% - Tie: Hobo with a Shotgun and The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom

thanks for voting!

Film Fan Fridays for Friday March 25, 2011

Hello Film Fans and Fanatics!

Welcome to Film Fan Fridays for Friday March 25, 2011! Another huge week of releases with 11 films hitting theatres and 2 festivals making waves, and lots of CanCon kicking around and taking names. Wow. Busy times.

In limited release this week we start with the Thursday March 24, 2011 release of the amazing and inspiring documentary The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls on the lesbian, yodeling, twin sister singing act Lynda and Jools Topp and believe you-me, if you get a chance see this documentary because it's fantastic and I've kept it close to my heart ever since seeing it almost a year ago. Completely inspiring. Keeping it musical, and documentary to boot we have Music from the Big House from director Bruce McDonald (Trigger, Pontypool). We also have limited releases of the romance/drama Certified Copy / Copie conforme starring Juliet Binoche, an Israel sport comedy about sumo wrestlers A Matter of Size, Algerian historical drama Outside the Law / Hors-la-loi, 70's set crime film White Irish Drinkers and sport/inspiration Win Win from director Tom McCarthy (The Visitor, The Station Agent). Holy moly. What a week!

In wide release this week we have lots of extremeness, starting with the release of Hobo with a Shotgun from Treevenge director Jason Eisener and starring Rutger Hauer (Ladyhawke) as a hobo... with a shotgun. And continuing the extremeness with Zack Snyder's Sucker Punch which I'm continuing to be cautiously curious and it looks stylistically great but strongly has a vibe of that reminds me of female character in gaming worlds that women don't play (action-style butt kicking .... stocking & pigtails!), but I'll be happy to champion it if it's awesome and Zack Snyder has surprized me in the past with Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole & 300. We also have two sequels in release with West is West (sequel to the 1999 film East is East) and Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2: Rodrick Rules (sequel to 2010 Diary of a Wimpy Kid).

Have a great weekend!

Shannon

Festival Watch

Cinéfranco
14th Annual Celebration of International Francophone Cinema
March 25 - April 3, 2011 at TIFF Lightbox Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Silent Film Festival
March 30 - April 7, 2011 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Thursday March 24, 2011 Release

The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls
Dir: Leanne Pooley
Documentary
New Zealand
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

Friday March 25, 2011 Releases

Certified Copy / Copie conforme
Writer/Dir: Abbas Kiarostami (The Wind Will Carry Us, Through the Olive Trees)
Cast: Juliette Binoche, William Shimell
France/Italy/Belgium
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2: Rodrick Rules
Dir: David Bowers (Astro Boy)
Cast: Zachary Gordon, Devon Bostick, Rachael Harris, Robert Capron, Steve Zahn
USA
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Hobo with a Shotgun
Dir: Jason Eisener (Treevenge)
Cast: Rutger Hauer, Gregory Smith, Robb Wells, Molly Dunsworth
Canada/USA
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

A Matter of Size
Dir: Sharon Maymon & Erez Tadmor (Strangers)
Cast: Itzik Cohen, Dvir Benedek, Alon Dahan, Shmhulik Cohen
Israel/France/Germany
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Music from the Big House
Dir: Bruce McDonald (Highway 61, Hard Core Logo, Trigger, Pontypool)
Documentary
Canada/USA
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Outside the Law / Hors-la-loi
Writer/Dir: Rachid Bouchareb (London River, Indigènes)
Cast: Jamel Debbouze, Roschdy Zem, Sami Bouajila
France/Algeria/Belgium
Limited Release
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

Sucker Punch
Dir: Zack Snyder (Watchmen, Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, 300)
Cast: Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, Vanessa Hudgens, Jamie Chung, Jena Malone, Carla Gugino, Jon Hamm, Scott Glenn, Oscar Isaac
USA/Canada
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

West is West
Dir: Andy DeEmmony
Cast: Aqib Khan, Om Puri, Linda Bassett
UK
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

White Irish Drinkers
Writer/Dir: John Gray (The Glimmer Man)
Cast: Nick Thurston, Geoffrey Wigdor, Stephen Lang, Karen Allen, Peter Riegert, Leslie Murphy
USA
Limited Release
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page, Trailer

Win Win
Dir: Tom McCarthy (The Visitor, The Station Agent)
Cast: Paul Giamatti, Amy Ryan, Melanie Lynskey, Jeffrey Tambor, Bobby Cannavale
USA
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada as of March 25, 2011**

Film Fan Fridays for Friday March 25, 2011

Hello Film Fans and Fanatics!

Welcome to Film Fan Fridays for Friday March 25, 2011! Another huge week of releases with 11 films hitting theatres and 2 festivals making waves, and lots of CanCon kicking around and taking names. Wow. Busy times.

In limited release this week we start with the Thursday March 24, 2011 release of the amazing and inspiring documentary The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls on the lesbian, yodeling, twin sister singing act Lynda and Jools Topp and believe you-me, if you get a chance see this documentary because it's fantastic and I've kept it close to my heart ever since seeing it almost a year ago. Completely inspiring. Keeping it musical, and documentary to boot we have Music from the Big House from director Bruce McDonald (Trigger, Pontypool). We also have limited releases of the romance/drama Certified Copy / Copie conforme starring Juliet Binoche, an Israel sport comedy about sumo wrestlers A Matter of Size, Algerian historical drama Outside the Law / Hors-la-loi, 70's set crime film White Irish Drinkers and sport/inspiration Win Win from director Tom McCarthy (The Visitor, The Station Agent). Holy moly. What a week!

In wide release this week we have lots of extremeness, starting with the release of Hobo with a Shotgun from Treevenge director Jason Eisener and starring Rutger Hauer (Ladyhawke) as a hobo... with a shotgun. And continuing the extremeness with Zack Snyder's Sucker Punch which I'm continuing to be cautiously curious and it looks stylistically great but strongly has a vibe of that reminds me of female character in gaming worlds that women don't play (action-style butt kicking .... stocking & pigtails!), but I'll be happy to champion it if it's awesome and Zack Snyder has surprized me in the past with Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole & 300. We also have two sequels in release with West is West (sequel to the 1999 film East is East) and Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2: Rodrick Rules (sequel to 2010 Diary of a Wimpy Kid).

Have a great weekend!

Shannon

Festival Watch

Cinéfranco
14th Annual Celebration of International Francophone Cinema
March 25 - April 3, 2011 at TIFF Lightbox Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Silent Film Festival
March 30 - April 7, 2011 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Thursday March 24, 2011 Release

The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls
Dir: Leanne Pooley
Documentary
New Zealand
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

Friday March 25, 2011 Releases

Certified Copy / Copie conforme
Writer/Dir: Abbas Kiarostami (The Wind Will Carry Us, Through the Olive Trees)
Cast: Juliette Binoche, William Shimell
France/Italy/Belgium
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2: Rodrick Rules
Dir: David Bowers (Astro Boy)
Cast: Zachary Gordon, Devon Bostick, Rachael Harris, Robert Capron, Steve Zahn
USA
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Hobo with a Shotgun
Dir: Jason Eisener (Treevenge)
Cast: Rutger Hauer, Gregory Smith, Robb Wells, Molly Dunsworth
Canada/USA
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

A Matter of Size
Dir: Sharon Maymon & Erez Tadmor (Strangers)
Cast: Itzik Cohen, Dvir Benedek, Alon Dahan, Shmhulik Cohen
Israel/France/Germany
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Music from the Big House
Dir: Bruce McDonald (Highway 61, Hard Core Logo, Trigger, Pontypool)
Documentary
Canada/USA
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Outside the Law / Hors-la-loi
Writer/Dir: Rachid Bouchareb (London River, Indigènes)
Cast: Jamel Debbouze, Roschdy Zem, Sami Bouajila
France/Algeria/Belgium
Limited Release
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

Sucker Punch
Dir: Zack Snyder (Watchmen, Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, 300)
Cast: Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, Vanessa Hudgens, Jamie Chung, Jena Malone, Carla Gugino, Jon Hamm, Scott Glenn, Oscar Isaac
USA/Canada
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

West is West
Dir: Andy DeEmmony
Cast: Aqib Khan, Om Puri, Linda Bassett
UK
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

White Irish Drinkers
Writer/Dir: John Gray (The Glimmer Man)
Cast: Nick Thurston, Geoffrey Wigdor, Stephen Lang, Karen Allen, Peter Riegert, Leslie Murphy
USA
Limited Release
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page, Trailer

Win Win
Dir: Tom McCarthy (The Visitor, The Station Agent)
Cast: Paul Giamatti, Amy Ryan, Melanie Lynskey, Jeffrey Tambor, Bobby Cannavale
USA
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada as of March 25, 2011**

Movie Moxie Podcast 30: Cinéfranco, Jane Eyre, Battle Los Angeles & War Films

On this weeks episode of the Movie Moxie Podcast Shannon talks about Cinéfranco Film Festival, recent releases of Jane Eyre and Battle Los Angeles and takes on War films as a genre.

Time Line
0:00 – 1:00 - Introduction
1:00 – 3:00 – News
3:00 – 8:20 – Cinefranco Preview
8:20 – 18:10 – Jane Eyre Review
18:10 – 24:00 – Battle Los Angeles Review
25:00 – 35:15 – War Films as a Genre
35:15 – 42:00 – DVD releases
42:00 – 45:00 – Upcoming up Next Week
45:00 – 46:26 – Outro

You can subscribe to the Movie Moxie Podcast here:
Or subscribe through iTunes here.

Show Notes:

• I mentioned being interviewed Part 1 & Part 2 here by Melly Hocking (I interviewed on the Movie Moxie Podcast Ep )
• I mention Blake of Bitchin’ Film Reviews who was also interviewed my Melly
• Cinéfranco website
• Cinéfranco films mentioned: Impasse du désir (opening night film with Remy Girard), Kill Me Please (with Saul Rubinek), 2 Frogs dans l’Ouest / 2 Frogs in the West, Bacon on the Side and Unleashed
• I mention the Book to Film Club and my book review of Jane Eyre and film review of Jane Eyre
• DVD Releases for March 22, 2011
• DVD reviews of Skyline & Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer
• I mention the amazing upcoming release of The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls

• Promo for Saturday B-Movie Reel podcast at Tuning into SciFi

War Films Show Notes:

• War Film as definition per Wikipedia: War films are a film genre concerned with warfare, usually about naval, air or land battles, sometimes focusing instead on prisoners of war, covert operations, military training or other related subjects. At times war films focus on daily military or civilian life in wartime without depicting battles. Their stories may be fiction, based on history, docudrama, biographical, or even alternate history fiction. The term anti-war film is sometimes used to describe films which bring to the viewer the pain and horror of war, often from a political or ideological perspective.
• Shannon's (small) list of enjoyed or recommended war films: The Hurt Locker, The Messenger, GI Jane, Memphis Belle, Black Hawk Down, Shake Hands with the Devil and Stripes

Top 50 War on IMDb (as of March 24, 2011)
1. Schindler's List (1993)
2. Apocalypse Now (1979)
3. The Human Condition I: No Greater Love (1959/I)
4. Paths of Glory (1957)
5. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
6. Saving Private Ryan (1998)
7. The Pianist (2002)
8. Das Boot (1981)
9. The Great Dictator (1940)
10. The Big Parade (1925)
11. Life is Beautiful (1997)
12. The General (1926)
13. The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)
14. The Great War (1959)
15. Full Metal Jacket (1987)
16. Downfall (2004)
17. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
18. Braveheart (1995)
19. The Great Escape (1963)
20. Ran (1985)
21. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
22. The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
23. Hotel Rwanda (2004)
24. The Battle of Algiers (1966)
25. Devils on the Doorstep (2000)
26. The Deer Hunter (1978)
27. Andrei Rublev (1966)
28. La grande illusion (1937)
29. Platoon (1986)
30. Rome, Open City (1945)
31. Gone with the Wind (1939)
32. Michael the Brave (1971)
33. Come and See (1985)
34. Stalag 17 (1953)
35. All Quiet on the Western Front (1930)
36. Barefoot Gen (1983)
37. To Be or Not to Be (1942)
38. The War Game (1965)
39. Army of Shadows (1969)
40. Brotherhood (2004)
41. Ivan's Childhood (1962)
42. Battleship Potemkin (1925)
43. Au Revoir Les Enfants (1987)
44. Ballad of a Soldier (1959)
45. A Matter of Life and Death (1946)
46. The Shop on Main Street (1965)
47. To Live (1994)
48. Fires on the Plain (1959)
49. The Cranes are Flying (1957)
50. The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp (1943)

Movie Moxie Podcast 30: Cinéfranco, Jane Eyre, Battle Los Angeles & War Films

On this weeks episode of the Movie Moxie Podcast Shannon talks about Cinéfranco Film Festival, recent releases of Jane Eyre and Battle Los Angeles and takes on War films as a genre.

Time Line
0:00 – 1:00 - Introduction
1:00 – 3:00 – News
3:00 – 8:20 – Cinefranco Preview
8:20 – 18:10 – Jane Eyre Review
18:10 – 24:00 – Battle Los Angeles Review
25:00 – 35:15 – War Films as a Genre
35:15 – 42:00 – DVD releases
42:00 – 45:00 – Upcoming up Next Week
45:00 – 46:26 – Outro

You can subscribe to the Movie Moxie Podcast here:
Or subscribe through iTunes here.

Show Notes:

• I mentioned being interviewed Part 1 & Part 2 here by Melly Hocking (I interviewed on the Movie Moxie Podcast Ep )
• I mention Blake of Bitchin’ Film Reviews who was also interviewed my Melly
• Cinéfranco website
• Cinéfranco films mentioned: Impasse du désir (opening night film with Remy Girard), Kill Me Please (with Saul Rubinek), 2 Frogs dans l’Ouest / 2 Frogs in the West, Bacon on the Side and Unleashed
• I mention the Book to Film Club and my book review of Jane Eyre and film review of Jane Eyre
• DVD Releases for March 22, 2011
• DVD reviews of Skyline & Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer
• I mention the amazing upcoming release of The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls

• Promo for Saturday B-Movie Reel podcast at Tuning into SciFi

War Films Show Notes:

• War Film as definition per Wikipedia: War films are a film genre concerned with warfare, usually about naval, air or land battles, sometimes focusing instead on prisoners of war, covert operations, military training or other related subjects. At times war films focus on daily military or civilian life in wartime without depicting battles. Their stories may be fiction, based on history, docudrama, biographical, or even alternate history fiction. The term anti-war film is sometimes used to describe films which bring to the viewer the pain and horror of war, often from a political or ideological perspective.
• Shannon's (small) list of enjoyed or recommended war films: The Hurt Locker, The Messenger, GI Jane, Memphis Belle, Black Hawk Down, Shake Hands with the Devil and Stripes

Top 50 War on IMDb (as of March 24, 2011)
1. Schindler's List (1993)
2. Apocalypse Now (1979)
3. The Human Condition I: No Greater Love (1959/I)
4. Paths of Glory (1957)
5. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
6. Saving Private Ryan (1998)
7. The Pianist (2002)
8. Das Boot (1981)
9. The Great Dictator (1940)
10. The Big Parade (1925)
11. Life is Beautiful (1997)
12. The General (1926)
13. The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)
14. The Great War (1959)
15. Full Metal Jacket (1987)
16. Downfall (2004)
17. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
18. Braveheart (1995)
19. The Great Escape (1963)
20. Ran (1985)
21. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
22. The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
23. Hotel Rwanda (2004)
24. The Battle of Algiers (1966)
25. Devils on the Doorstep (2000)
26. The Deer Hunter (1978)
27. Andrei Rublev (1966)
28. La grande illusion (1937)
29. Platoon (1986)
30. Rome, Open City (1945)
31. Gone with the Wind (1939)
32. Michael the Brave (1971)
33. Come and See (1985)
34. Stalag 17 (1953)
35. All Quiet on the Western Front (1930)
36. Barefoot Gen (1983)
37. To Be or Not to Be (1942)
38. The War Game (1965)
39. Army of Shadows (1969)
40. Brotherhood (2004)
41. Ivan's Childhood (1962)
42. Battleship Potemkin (1925)
43. Au Revoir Les Enfants (1987)
44. Ballad of a Soldier (1959)
45. A Matter of Life and Death (1946)
46. The Shop on Main Street (1965)
47. To Live (1994)
48. Fires on the Plain (1959)
49. The Cranes are Flying (1957)
50. The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp (1943)

Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer (DVD Review)

Image: Courtesy Alliance Films, Legal Line: ©2010 I Was a 7th Grade Dragonslayer, L.L.C. All Rights Reserved. ©2011 Screen Media Films. All Rights Reserved. Distributed exclusively in Canada by Alliance Films. All Rights Reserved.

Dir: Andrew Lauer (Intermedio)
Cast: Hunter Allan, Lea Thompson, Abigail Victor, Ryan Bradley Norris, Eric Lutes, Wendie Malick, Amy Pietz
USA, 2011 (DVD Relases)

Reason to see: Dragon slayer ...yep, that would be an instant yes.

Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer is a really cute kid-centric, family friendly film centred on Arthur (Hunter Allan), and adventurous 7th grader who likes to prowl with sewers with friends Natalie (Abigail Victor) and Tim (Ryan Bradley Norris) who together are a geeky trio who come up against the cool kids lead by none of than the evil Vice-Principal Metz (Wendie Malick) son. Dealing with conflict in school kids is just a small piece of the larger puzzle, which has much more exciting pieces that involve dragons, trolls, alchemy, mystery and a lot of mayhem and trouble for the kids to get into throughout.

I really liked how the film used a different, take on things we often see in young-teen films like growing up with a single parent or dealing with bullies. It often goes for humour in these scenarios, and I really liked that choice as it felt honest but light hearted. I particularly enjoyed Lea Thompson as Arthur's Mom, as she sticks up for Arthur even when he's not been on his best behaviour.

It is a kid's film at heart so the acting is broad strokes and the effects are fantasy-centric over stary, bbut I found there were lots of geek culture references from gaming to conventions that popped up and made it really entertaining from an adult perspective. Overall, it was a lot of fun and a great choice for kids or as a family pick.

DVD Extras:

• Deleted Scenes (4 Scenes, 7 Minutes) combination of deleted and extended scenes including more adventuring with the young cast and additional rapport with the adult characters.

Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer is available on DVD as of March 22, 2011. Check it out over at Amazon.ca & amazon.com

Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it to fans of family films, and especially so for those for who enjoy geek culture references

Return to Film Reviews or see more DVD Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2011

Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer (DVD Review)

Image: Courtesy Alliance Films, Legal Line: ©2010 I Was a 7th Grade Dragonslayer, L.L.C. All Rights Reserved. ©2011 Screen Media Films. All Rights Reserved. Distributed exclusively in Canada by Alliance Films. All Rights Reserved.

Dir: Andrew Lauer (Intermedio)
Cast: Hunter Allan, Lea Thompson, Abigail Victor, Ryan Bradley Norris, Eric Lutes, Wendie Malick, Amy Pietz
USA, 2011 (DVD Relases)

Reason to see: Dragon slayer ...yep, that would be an instant yes.

Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer is a really cute kid-centric, family friendly film centred on Arthur (Hunter Allan), and adventurous 7th grader who likes to prowl with sewers with friends Natalie (Abigail Victor) and Tim (Ryan Bradley Norris) who together are a geeky trio who come up against the cool kids lead by none of than the evil Vice-Principal Metz (Wendie Malick) son. Dealing with conflict in school kids is just a small piece of the larger puzzle, which has much more exciting pieces that involve dragons, trolls, alchemy, mystery and a lot of mayhem and trouble for the kids to get into throughout.

I really liked how the film used a different, take on things we often see in young-teen films like growing up with a single parent or dealing with bullies. It often goes for humour in these scenarios, and I really liked that choice as it felt honest but light hearted. I particularly enjoyed Lea Thompson as Arthur's Mom, as she sticks up for Arthur even when he's not been on his best behaviour.

It is a kid's film at heart so the acting is broad strokes and the effects are fantasy-centric over stary, bbut I found there were lots of geek culture references from gaming to conventions that popped up and made it really entertaining from an adult perspective. Overall, it was a lot of fun and a great choice for kids or as a family pick.

DVD Extras:

• Deleted Scenes (4 Scenes, 7 Minutes) combination of deleted and extended scenes including more adventuring with the young cast and additional rapport with the adult characters.

Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer is available on DVD as of March 22, 2011. Check it out over at Amazon.ca & amazon.com

Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it to fans of family films, and especially so for those for who enjoy geek culture references

Return to Film Reviews or see more DVD Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2011

DVD Releases for March 22, 2011

Tuesday time which means time to look at a selection of the DVD Releases for the week March 22, 2011. Lots of creature-y goodness this week!

• Skyline (DVD Review) Alien invasion and effects heavy sci-fi starring Eric Balfour (Six Feet Under, Haven), DVD features not one but two feature commentaries, deleted, extended, alternate scenes and more.
• Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer (DVD Review) cute family spirited film featuring a group of Grade 7ers who adventure in sewers in search of a dragon.
• Wyvern With a title like Wyvern, do you need to know more? I totally want to see this creature flick.
• Dear Mr. Gacy Based on a true story of a college student who takes on a notorious serial killer John Wayne Gacy.
• Battle of Los Angeles *Not* the film that just hit theatres, but is the on that just played on SyFy and I'm actually thrilled to see it's on DVD so quickly because I really want to check this one out.
• The Times of Harvey Milk Criterion edition of this well respected documentary on San Francisco politician Harvey Milk.
• Heartland Season 3 Wow, this Canadian series is already in it's 3rd Season? Guess so!
• The Big I Am Crime/action flick set in London and starring Leo Gregory, Vincent Regan and Michael Madsen.
• The Tourist Adventurous crime/comedy starring Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp.
• Yogi Bear Updated take on the animation classic featuring Yogi and Boo Boo and their adventures in Jellystone Park.

Titles on Amazon.ca(Canada):


Titles on Amazon.com (US):


Heartland Season 3 not currently available on Amazon.com