Top 10 Cary Grant Films

Named number #2 on the American Film Institutes Greatest Screen Legends list and rightly so. Cary Grant will forever be remembered as the suave handsome leading man that men wanted to be and women swooned over.
Coming to America from Bristol as Archie Leach, he soon got into the movie business and steadily worked his way up, with the help of screen siren Mae West.
Grant created a persona so that eventually he became it and it became him, no-one knew the real Cary Grant he was famously reported as saying "Everybody wants to be Cary Grant. Even I want to be Cary Grant"
He will forever be associated with the introduction of the screw-ball comedy in which he was always superb using his acrobatic skills from his early years. On the other end of the scale he will always be linked with Hitchcock in a masterful teaming for some of the directors greatest work. Here is my list.

10 - Charade (1963)

Running Time: 1 Hour 55 mins
Genre: Comedy/Mystery
Director: Stanley Donen
Stars: Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn, Walter Matthau

Despite the all too obvious age difference this spy caper is incredibly funny and why the hell would Audrey Hepburn not be chasing after him, I mean he's Cary Grant. He plays one of several men who are surrounding the widowed Hepburn after her husband stole a fortune. But can she trust Grant's Peter Joshua?
What can be better than watching Grant and Hepburn 2 of the biggest stars running around Paris - nothing.

09 - The Philadelphia Story (1940)

Running Time: 1 Hour 50 mins
Genre: Comedy/Romance
Director: George Cukor
Stars: Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, James Stewart

Grant plays C.K Dexter Haven who married Katharine Hepburn's Socialite Tracy Lord. They discover not long into the marriage that they were impulsive and divorce. He happens to reappear on the scene just as Tracy is about to remarry with a reporter (Stewart) as the wedding day nears Tracy finds herself torn between her Fiancée George, the reporter Mike and her ex-husband.
A great classic comedy with some of the biggest stars of the day, you can't go wrong with this one.

08 - Suspicion (1941)

Running Time: 1 Hour 35 mins
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Stars: Cary Grant, Joan Fontaine

One of Hitchcock's great suspense thrillers, Cary Grant worked with the auteur director 4 times all incredible pieces of film. This his first sees him playing Johnnie a charming gentleman who marries the shy English woman Lina, but it isn't long before she begins to see past his charms and suspect that he is trying to kill her.
Grant was at this time already a star and Hitchcock did not get his complete way when it came to character progression. He wanted Grant to play a conventional baddie but was overruled by the studio concerned for his image. Never-the-less a great performance.

07 - To Catch a Thief (1955)

Running Time: 1 Hour 45 mins
Genre: Crime/Romance
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Stars: Cary Grant, Grace Kelly

Grant stars as John Robie a jewel thief gone straight. Living in the South of France innocently, he is thrown again into suspicion when a number of robbery's occur. To confirm his innocence he must catch the real jewel thief. He procures a list of the richest jewels on the Riviera, the first on the list belonging to the mother of Grace Kelly's Frances Stevens who figures out who he was and is fascinated by him. After her mothers jewels are stolen she temporarily doubts him but eventually agrees to help him clear his name. A great effort from Hitchcock and Grant's third for the great director.

06 - Notorious (1946)

Running Time: 1 Hour 40 mins
Genre: Film-Noir
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Stars: Cary Grant, Ingrid Bergman, Claude Rains

The second of the 4 collaborations with Hitch, Notorious centres on Bergman's Alicia Huberman whose German father is convicted for treason against the US. She is approached by Grant's T.R. Devlin to spy on her fathers Nazi friends including Claude Rains Alexander Sebastian. A romance develops between Alicia and Devlin but it becomes strained and dangerous as she becomes ever more deeply involved in her work.
A great spy thriller, one of Hitchcock's greatest stories and a masterful performance from Grant.



05 - Monkey Business (1952)

Running Time: 1 Hour 35 mins
Genre: Comedy
Director: Howard Hawks
Stars: Cary Grant, Ginger Rogers, Marilyn Monroe

Grant is Barnaby Fulton a chemist who thinks he has created a formula for feeling and acting younger. In actuality it was one of his test chimpanzees who mixes the ingredients and adds it to the water cooler. All hell breaks loose with hilarious results when both Barnaby and his wife (Rogers) take the potion both on purpose and then accidentally not realising whilst drinking many cups of coffee that the formula is in the water making them younger with every drink they take.

04 - Bringing up Baby (1938)

Running Time: 1 Hour 40 mins
Genre: Comedy/Romance
Director: Howard Hawks
Stars: Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn

Early in his career before the Hitchcock thrillers and dramas Cary proved himself to be a master of the slapstick comedy. This was the greatest example. Paired for the second of four occasions with Katharine Hepburn, here he plays a disgruntled palaeontologist trying to raise funds for his museum whilst being pursued by frivolous and irritating heiress Susan and her pet leopard Baby.
A great family comedy that is still as great today as the day it was released.

03 - North by Northwest (1959)

Running Time: 2 Hours 15 mins
Genre: Action/Crime
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Stars: Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason

Considered by many the greatest of the Hitchcock/Grant teaming, here Grant plays Roger Thornhill an advertising man mistaken for a government agent and is kidnapped by a group of foreign spies led by James Mason's Philip Vandamm. He is framed for murder and after escaping he is followed across the country not only by his captors but also by the police. As he struggles to survive in dangerous conditions he is desperately trying to clear his name in the process. He is helped by a beautiful blonde he meets on a train Eve Kendall (Saint) who isn't who he thinks she is. Exciting, thrilling, Classic.

02 - His Girl Friday (1940)

Running Time: 1 Hour 30 mins
Genre: Comedy/Romance
Director: Howard Hawks
Stars: Cary Grant, Rosalind Russell

Long considered a Hollywood classic and one of Grant, Russell and Hawks best films individually this is a comedy that everybody should see. Cary plays Walter Burns a Newspaper man who lives for his job so much so that he lost his wife Hildy (Russell) also a journalist in the process. When she returns after four months away she tells him she is quitting and has got a divorce, not only that, she is leaving to get married to have the kind of home life she wanted from him. Not wanting to lose his star reporter or wife he plans to delay her and remind her how much she loves her job and him. One of the best comedy scripts ever written.

01 - An Affair to Remember

Running Time: 1 Hour 55 mins
Genre: Drama/Romance
Director: Leo McCarey
Stars: Cary Grant, Deborah Kerr

My personal favourite performance as a huge fan of both Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr this was the second of 3 pairings between the real life friends. Grant plays Nickie Ferrante a well known bachelor and playboy who engaged to be married meets Kerr's Terry McKay on a cruise from Europe to New York. They fall in love and despite both being in a relationship agree to meet at the top of the Empire State Building in six months where they can start their life together and get married. When an accident stops her from making it, he fears she doesn't love him any more and she is too proud to contact him and tell him what really happened, unless she can be her old self again. A great, funny and romantic classic, the pair have great chemistry and play so well off each other. This is a must see, it's even mention in Sleepless in Seattle (1993). 

A list containing not only my personal list of favourites but also some of what are regarded the best films in cinema history, you look at any list and a lot of those films are on there. That alone is reason enough to give them a go. If you haven't had the experience of watching him, or (ladies) being charmed off your feet by Cary Grant then what are you waiting for. Once you've seen one you'll never go back. Enjoy!

Top 10 Bette Davis Films

Bette Davis remains one of the highest regarded actresses of her generation. With a whip like tongue, huge eyes filled with emotion and a magnetism that keeps you glued to the screen.
Bette Davis was one of the strongest women in Hollywood, she fought for the best roles when her studio (Warner Brothers) wouldn't give her the parts she felt she deserved.

When she didn't win the role of Scarlett in Gone with the Wind the studio bought her Jezebel and so started a career of amazing roles in some of the best film from the Golden Age of Hollywood. She left Warners when they didn't give her good material and went it on her own having a successful career in horrors and thrillers in her later life.

This is my list of the incredible films of Bette Davis. Enjoy.

10 - The Little Foxes (1941)

Running Time: 1 Hour 55 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: William Wyler
Stars: Bette Davis, Teresa Wright, Richard Carlson

Davis is Regina Giddens a member of the despicable Hubbard family. She along with her brothers are conniving and sneaky involved in a shady business deal. The whole family are manipulative and thoughtless, thinking only of themselves. Davis gives a vicious performance for director William Wyler whom she would work with many times is her career.





09 - The Nanny (1965)

Running Time: 1 Hour 30 mins
Genre: Thriller
Director: Seth Holt
Stars: Bette Davis, Wendy Craig, Jill Bennett

A starring role later in her career, cashing in on the success of simmering thriller/horror What Ever Happened to Baby Jane. Davis plays the titular Nanny to a family welcoming back their little boy Joey after a stint in a facility for disturbed children after drowning his little sister. When he returns home he is extremely distrusting of the Nanny continually persisting she did it. When his mother is poisoned heads turn again to Joey but the neighbour believes his story. Davis is excellent.

08 - The Letter (1940)

Running Time: 1 Hour 35 mins
Genre: Crime/Film-Noir
Director: William Wyler
Stars: Bette Davis, Herbert Marshall, James Stephenson

The film begins with a shooting. Davis is the wife of a sugar plantation owner in Singapore, who shoots and kills a man on her doorstep. She claims self-defence and everyone naturally believes her, her story is so good. But a letter in her handwriting could be her undoing, both her and her lawyer know the truth but what will the lawyer do? Damn her or free her knowing she killed a man.
Davis is her usual stunning self, fantastic performance from all.



07 - Jezebel (1938)

Running Time: 1 Hour 45 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: William Wyler
Stars: Bette Davis, Henry Fonda, George Brent

After losing out on Gone With the Wind, Davis was given the role of Julie in Jezebel. Rather similar to Scarlett O'Hara Julie is a headstrong, vain independent Southern Belle who in her stubbornness and sometimes cruel nature loses her fiancée Preston Dillard (Fonda). But she vows to win him back, and doesn't care who she hurts or how far she goes to do it.
Davis won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance.

06 - Dark Victory (1939)

Running Time: 1 Hour 45 mins
Genre: Drama/Romance
Director: Edward Goulding
Stars: Bette Davis, George Brent, Humphrey Bogart

Davis plays Judith Traherne a young active socialite in her prime, who is plagued by headaches and sudden failing eyesight. She visits Dr. Frederick Steele who diagnosis an inoperable brain tumour. After the surgery she is told that it is successful but it appears it is not. Judith falls in love with Dr. Steele and they are to be married she finds out she will die and becomes depressed. After the advise of her horse trainer who loves her (Bogart in a small role) she marries Steele and tries to be the happy doting housewife waiting for the blindness that will sign her death.

05 - All About Eve (1950)

Running Time: 2 Hours 15 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: Joseph L. Mankiewicz
Stars: Bette Davis, Anne Baxter, Celeste Holm

Remembered not only for being one of the truest films about the acting and fame industry but also for being possibly the greatest role of Davis' long career. She plays Margo Channing a famous stage actress who lets a besotted fan (Baxter) become part of her circle. However things turn sour when she begins to question her loving fan and her motives. Riveting performance that came in good time for Davis it was a comeback of sorts; stupendous!

04 - Hush...Hush, Sweet Charlotte (1964)

Running Time: 2 Hours 10 mins
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Director: Robert Aldrich
Stars: Bette Davis, Olivia De Havilland, Joseph Cotten

Davis is an ageing Southern Belle who has a reputation for being mad after a dark family secret has made her lose her mind. When a kindly family member (De Havilland) comes to stay the past comes back to haunt her and we find out what really happened. As Charlotte becomes more unhinged her cousin's friendly manner starts to change.
A great mystery thriller that keeps you guessing until the end. Davis is at her best.

03 - What Ever Happened To Baby Jane (1962)

Running Time: 2 Hours 15 mins
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Director: Robert Aldrich
Stars: Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Victor Buono

The film that re-invented Davis for a new genre, that stemmed many copy-cats in the coming years. Davis is Baby Jane Hudson a former vaudeville child star living in an old mansion dreaming of a comeback; living in the past and trying to recreate her glory days. Not only that, she has become so demented that she torments her wheel-chair bound sister (her biggest rival Crawford) who became the bigger star as they grew up, which Jane has always resented. This is a great dramatic thriller reviving both actresses stalling careers.

02 - Mr Skeffington (1944)

Running Time: 2 Hours 25 mins
Genre: Drama/Romance
Director: Vincent Sherman
Stars: Bette Davis, Claude Rains, Walter Abel

Mr Skeffington is a film about ageing and accepting it. Davis plays Fanny Trellis known for her beauty she is popular with all the single bachelors. But she ends up in a loveless marriage to much older Job Skeffinton to save her brother from an embezzlement charge by Skeffington. Obsessed with youth and her looks, the important people in her life fall away. It is only when her looks are gone due to an illness that she realises those who truly cared for her. An excellent performance from Davis not afraid to hide her movie star looks for a great role.

01 - Now, Voyager (1942)

Running Time: 1 Hour 55 mins
Genre: Romance/Drama
Director: Irving Rapper
Stars: Bette Davis, Paul Henreid, Claude Rains

Now Voyager is remembered as a great romance but it must also be considered a great dramatic performance from Davis. She plays Charlotte Vale a Boston spinster fulfilling the Ugly Duckling role of the family repressed under the constant watch of her overbearing mother. After a breakdown she flourishes in a sanatorium and becomes a new woman. No longer under the thumb of her mother, she holidays abroad and falls in love with a man she cannot marry. Through the sanatorium she meets his troubled daughter who reminds her of herself, her way of showing her continued love is to help bring up his daughter. A classic performance from Davis, I prefer the mother daughter relationship to the romance, it truly shows what Davis could do.

A list of just 10 of the amazing roles that Bette Davis made her own during her long and successful career. I can promise you if you watch just one of the movies on this list you will be hunting for her back catalogue because you simply won't be able to get enough of her.
Let me know what you think of the list in the comments below. Would you pick differently?

Gladiator (2000)

Running Time: 2 Hours 35 mins
Genre: Action/Adventure
Estimated Budget: $103, 000,000
Estimated Gross (April 2013): $187, 705,427
Awards: 5 Oscars - Best Picture, Best Actor - Russell Crowe, Best Costume Design, Best Sound, Best Effects/Visual Effects

Director: Ridley Scott
Writer: David Franzoni (story & Screenplay)
Stars: Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Oliver Reed

My Rating: 8/10

Gladiator has been on my watch-list for years but I have never got round to it. After watching other epics last week I decided it was time.

After everything I have heard about the film I am pleased to say that it lives up to its reputation. It is dynamic, thrilling and captures the era of the all powerful  Rome with an exciting yet dangerous tone. Director Ridley Scott famous for creating other classics like Alien (1979) and Blade Runner (1982) is known as a director who creates the world of the film from the ground up, one of the most notable elements to Scott's films are his amazing sets and locations. He builds entire worlds meticulously to bring a realism to his movies. Gladiator is no different, from the Bourne Woods in Surrey that open the film to the giant Colosseum (which is actually bigger than the original, Scott viewed the historical location and reportedly said, we need it bigger) we are transported into the ancient world of Roman Emperors  and Gladiators. Scott's vision was to makes as realistic a film as he could not a stereotypical 'Swords and Sandals' movie; I believe he was able to stick to this vision.

Gladiator centres around the Roman General Maximus Decimus Meridius (Crowe) who is favoured by the dying Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris) which creates an intense jealousy from the Emperor's son Commodus (Phoenix). When the Emperor dies suddenly and suspiciously Commodus becomes the new Emperor despite his fathers wishes that Maximus temporarily lead Rome and help return it to the state, to create a better Rome. He asks for the loyalty of Maximus who refuses, for this he is sentenced to death and his wife and young son are killed. Maximus being a famous and skilled soldier gets away from his captors but arrives too late to save his family. Weak and battered from travel and grieving he is sold into slavery, he is bought by the famous Oliver Reed's Proximo and trained to be a Gladiator and fight in the games that Commodus has arranged to commemorate his fathers death and get Rome's people to support him as the new Emperor.

Maximus known only as the Spaniard due to his heritage anonymously rises through the ranks, he leads the men to victory in the games and comes to the attention of both the crowd who support him unanimously and the Emperor who wants to meet this skilled fighter. Descending into the arena after a glorious victory Commodus demands to see the face of the Spaniard, he is stunned to see that it is the very man whom his father favoured and whom he had ordered killed in sheer jealousy months before. Because of the crowds unswerving support of Maximus he cannot kill him, but he puts him against the deadliest of opponents in the hopes that they will do the job for him. With the help of Commodus' sister Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) who despite being terrified of her brother and for the life of her son she is smart and is determined to return Rome to the glory her father envisioned. Maximus learns that his armies are still loyal to him and with his growing support and Commodus' own shrinking in comparison with the right help Maximus will be able to defeat the Emperor and return Rome to the state.

Commodus learns of his sister's betrayal and threatens her son, she reveals the plan and Commodus has Proximo's Gladiator barracks attacked, Maximus escapes but is later ambushed and is challenged to a battle in the Colosseum by Commodus. He can do nothing but accept, as he is a coward and truly evil Commodus stabs Maximus and weakens him before the battle. The fortunes of Rome rely on this one fight, the winner would make history.

With a story like that half the work is already done for you, the script is packed full of delicious characters, epic battles in some of the most magnetic locations in the world, all you have to do is bring it to life. OK so easier said than done but Ridley Scott pulled it off remarkably well despite some problems during the shoot. The biggest being the death of Oliver Reed 3 weeks before the end of shooting; the remainder of his shots were done using CGI and a double. There was only one moment in the film where this was apparent, fortunately Scott was able to integrate the fake with the real actor, the film was dedicated to him.

For his battle worn hero many famous actors at the time were looked at (including Mel Gibson who was offered the role but turned it down due to his age) Scott chose the Australian actor Russell Crowe and it turned out to be the perfect fit. I have never been a fan of the actor myself but once again the art of cinema is proving me wrong, after viewing both Noah and this in recent weeks I have discovered a talented performer who I am now going to pay a lot more attention to. Gladiator is reportedly Crowe's favourite of his American films, and there is no surprise as to why, his Maximus is a wise, chiselled and proud soldier who has high morals and conscience. Despite rumours that he disliked the script and would change his lines, the script is well written and Crowe pulls off the dialogue perfectly in what could in other hands have been cringe-worthy and laughable.

For the role of the evil Commodus Scott chose Joaquin Phoenix another actor whose work I am largely unfamiliar with. But I was blown away by his performance, he delves so deeply into his role and lavishes in the evil stares and the cold and malicious actions . He brings a depth to the character that may otherwise have been missed, what with his father issues and the incestuous feelings that he has for his sister this is a truly unlike-able character. But through sheer brilliance and talent there are moments (not many but some) when you do pity this character. Connie Nielsen as his sister is great in the role of Lucilla, she plays her with a great subtlety; the unforgotten love for Maximus, the fear for her son, the determination to play her part in front of her brother. Hers is a fascinating role which she utilises in every scene she is in. The same can be said of the great late Richard Harris now known to the world as the wise old wizard Albus Dumbledore from the first 2 Harry Potter Movies (2001-2002) but who crafted a role very similar in his small part in Gladiator. Here he displays a man with the weight of the world and his mistakes on his shoulders, knowing he is dying he is re-living his past and coming to terms with his life and his choices and how he can improve the future for his people. In a very short screen-time Harris is completely in control, as an actor especially in his old age he had a majesty and magnetism on screen which is so obvious in his scenes here. With a film full of great supporting roles and characters Scott filled his movie with some of the best talent on offer, with many familiar faces shining in their scenes.

Like many films before this the score has become infamous on its own merit and I had heard the music many years before I saw the film. It is undeniably the incredible Hans Zimmer at the helm, here he has created a truly epic score which hits every beat. It is thrilling and energetic during the battle sequences and haunting and emotional during Maximus' most personal moments. I have always said that a score can make the movie, and this is just another example to prove my point. Despite the amazing visual shots, and the great performances this score is the heart of the film and reaches out and pulls the audience into the movie to experience with the characters.

There are very few things that you could say against Gladiator, it is just a great thrilling story that transports you back to one of the most exciting eras of History. With a great cast creating arresting characters this is one that will keep you energised to the very last moment (have a box of tissues at hand is my only advise). Perfect for a weekend afternoon, I'm pretty sure I am the last person in the world to see it but if you haven't I would strongly recommend a viewing.

Important message for Film Fans!!!!!!!!

I have just read something profound, something I have been saying in a round about way for years and feel very strongly about.I read it in Empire Magazine in an essay by Director Christopher McQuarrie.
He says......

"Filmmakers like Martin Scorsese have made it their mission to preserve classic films. Christopher Nolan has made it his mission to save the physical medium of film stock itself. But whose mission is it to preserve what is arguably the most vital aspect of every classic film - the one thing they all have in common 

regardless of genre, tone, era or country of origin? Who will curate the one precious resource any classic film needs to justify its very own existence?

Who will preserve the audience? "

So next time to roll your eyes at me for mentioning a black and white film that you've just got to see. Stop !!!!

And remember I'm doing something very important......I'm preserving the audience of classic films.

So film fans get to work on all your friends who have never had the experience of watching Citizen Kane, of being transported to Casablanca or searced for gold with Humphrey Bogart in The Treasure of the Sierre Madre.

We are the ones who can pass on these great classics and make sure they continue to be seen through the ages. We can preserve the art of cinema. Get busy people :D

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)

Running Time: 2 Hours 15 mins
Genre: Action/Fantasy/Super-Hero
Estimated Budget: $200, 000,000
Estimated Gross (International): $47, 000,000

Director: Marc Webb
Writer: Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci
Stars: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Jamie Foxx

My Rating: 9/10

Not yet released in the USA Spider-Man is kicking off to a great start internationally with a great opening weekend. We shall see how that gross shoots up when the US audiences get their hands on it.

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is following in many comic book movies footsteps in that it is a very impressive sequel, some would even say it is better than the first. I haven't made up my mind which I prefer, but I can say, I thought the film was outstanding.

Marc Webb has returned to the second of an announced 4 film franchise, there has been so much attention following all stages of the making of this film, it is amazing that they were able to keep any of it under wraps. We did discover that Shailene Woodley's Mary Jane had been dropped from the second film due to an already full plot and would be picked up in the third instalment (Woodley may not be able to continue with the role due to now heading her own franchise - Divergent). Felicity Jones accidentally let slip that she would be playing Felicia Hardy aka villain Black Cat. The inclusion of more than one Spidey villain led to rumours which have now been confirmed to the spin off movie centring on the Sinister Six, a collection of villains that were brought together to defeat Spider-Man. With all that going on plus the on-set stills and subsequent TV Spots (including the tantalising Super bowl teaser) and Trailers; audiences have been practically buzzing around the movie. Since its release internationally on Wednesday 16th April audiences must have been running to cinemas to see this long awaited sequel.

This second instalment carries on not long after the first with the graduation of Peter, Gwen and their classmates. As usual Peter has other duties, this time including a run in with a Russian maniac (Paul Giamatti) causing a hell of a traffic problem meaning he nearly misses his own graduation. The film bubbles with excitement from the off, Andrew Garfield lavishing in the role of Spider-Man clearly still enjoying himself. Webb has added to the one-liners and cocky dialogue that Spidey reels off to his adversaries, though this time they are much more integrated into the dialogue rather than action - line - pause for laughter - action. This is a welcome relief, it makes the character much more natural, but there are some blink and you'll miss it lines, a second trip to the cinema is probably wise to catch everything (no problems there).

The film goes from fun to serious in a flash (though always switching back with little effort), Peter is struggling with his relationship with Gwen due to the haunting vision of her father almost warning him away from her. This puts a strain on them and they seem to be heading for a dead end, this is a welcome character arc, as we almost put them both at square one again and see the building of a romance rekindling. I know from a girls stand point this slow rise in feeling waiting for a reunion gave off a frustrating but palpable atmosphere. Emma Stone was again excellent as Gwen Stacy giving a refreshing portrayal of a woman in a comic book movie. She is strong intelligent and knows her own mind, which she firmly tells Peter in the film - she makes her own choices; yet she is not a super-hero . She is a great role model for women and girls to look up to and Stone is on solid ground with her character, obviously having no issues working with her other half (Stone and Garfield have been dating since 2012) the pair still have amazing chemistry.

When it comes to The Amazing Spider-Man 2's big baddie Electro played by Jamie Foxx I was slightly disappointed. His performance as the lonely Max Dillon (before he transforms into Electro) was funny and sad showing what can happen to a person who is forgotten in the world and I thought a lot more interesting than when he transformed. However saying that the accident in which he becomes Electro was stunning and the action sequences were thrilling and the absolute best that effects teams can create. The Make-up/effects used to create Electro are nothing short of superb, you just cannot look away from that pulsating blue face, I can only imagine the lengths the Post Production team went to, to create him. You can fully understand where the evil comes from but I just wish they had developed Electro as much as his alter-ego Max Dillon.

As for Spidey's other nemesis the pattern was unfortunately rather the same; Dane Dehaan is magnetising as Harry Osborn he fit the part very well. Playing both a self-assured but also lonely and resentful millionaire with father issues and much more besides he has anger issues uncommon in a man so young. You could watch him on-screen for much longer than he appears (though he has significant screen time). Again the character of Harry is much more compelling and more interesting than when he becomes the Green Goblin. And again the make-up is spectacular, truly transforming him into an unsavoury manic monster. However unlike with Electro his fight scene with Spider-Man is rather disappointing, the scene itself is filled with tension and important for a whole other reason (check out the film, no spoilers here) and coming at the climax of the film I felt it should be bigger. His actual time as the Goblin is very short some have said that this last portion of the film seems rather rushed, in comparison to the steady paced story arc which brought Harry to his final transformation.

Sally field has her small part as the ever reliable Aunt May; funny and emotional she is a classic actress, I could watch her all day. One particular speech is incredibly moving and she handles it perfectly. The story of Peter's mother and father and the cause of their deaths is another plot arc (no wonder Mary Jane was cut, it is definitely a full film -but not stretched too thin) these moments become almost like an old mystery thriller with Peter aching to find the missing pieces and discover the secret. Due to this packed out plot we see Peter Parker stretched to breaking point with his commitments and struggles. Despite all the action and screen time devoted very fairly to other characters we still witness a great character development with Peter. It is very impressive that director Marc Webb has been able to get the tone style and timing for each element of his film just right. It may not have worked as well in other hands but Webb has handled it like a pro.

So overall, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 really has it all, a kick-ass smart talking hero who develops even more as a character in this film. It has not one but multiple villains to pair him off against, each with their own uniquely interesting back story. A great romance that appeals to both genders and some of the greatest action sequences of the year, So if you were thinking of giving this one a miss, after that list why would you?

Hope you enjoy the film as much as I did (small spoiler - take tissues if your the sentimental type) let me know what you thought in the comments box below.

Noah (2014)

Running Time: 2 Hours 15 mins
Genre: Action/Adventure
Estimated Budget: $125, 000,000
Estimated Gross (USA 9th April): $76, 388,482

Director: Darren Aronofsky
Writer: Darren Aronofsky, Ari Handel
Stars: Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, Emma Watson

My Rating: 8/10

I am not a religious person in any way shape or form, yet I was both curious and intrigued by Aronofsky's new film. Known as a director who does nothing by half, I knew this would be a film of epic proportions. I was right.

Darren Aronofsky's Noah is a biblical epic to rival the great Cecil B. DeMille pictures of the 1950's. The likes of The Ten Commandments (1956) and Ben-Hur (1959).

Focusing on the 4 verse short story in the Bible; Noah last descendant of Seth (brother of Abel and Caine - the sons of Adam and Eve) who has lived his life respecting and protecting the Creator's land, whilst raising a family of 3 boys with his wife Naameh (Connelly). In a dream Noah is contacted by the Creator, in a vivid and rather haunting vision he is told that the world will be destroyed because of man's behaviour. He will flood the earth and wipe out men, Noah is to build an Ark that will protect the innocent - the animals, 2 of each species so that the world may begin again pure. This premise is spectacular and when you get down to the core of it quite a haunting thought. To have one man help rid the earth of an entire species, that which he belongs to is not an easy undertaking and Aronofsky makes clear how hard this task is to complete.

The Ark in question is not how we have come to imagine it in books and pictures, Aronofsky has created a huge floating wooden monstrosity of a grand scale. Even going to the lengths of building the set to the exact specifications in the bible. The director has created a very large story based at an entirely human level taking rather a lot of licence (see the rock angels) but this is not surprising and should not be criticised considering what he has created from such a small original source. Much of what Aronofsky has created within the biblical plot is a metaphor for the messages given in the four verse story, meaning the director has cleverly stuck to the bible more than some would think. What was deeply impressive about the film was that despite its scale and obvious use of CGI to create the amazing effects in the film, Aronofsky has also physically created so many aspects of the film. It was important to him that his actors had something to ground their performances on.

Aronofsky focuses very closely on the characters that layer his film, there are great performances that stand out even against the stunning visuals that Aronofsky has created. To play his Noah, Aronofsky chose an actor that he had wanted to work with before (he asked Crowe to star in The Fountain (2006) but Crowe didn't feel he was right for the part) and one that he knew would be able to fill the shoes of such a famous and strong character. Russell Crowe has starred in many epics on land on sea and in many eras of time he has a long list of credentials that prove he was more than up for taking on this biblical hero; Gladiator (2000) Master and Commander (2003) Les Miserables (2012).  Noah promises to help the Creator in his task of re-creating the world, and making a better place. However he begins to lose himself in the process and become self-sacrificing to the point of losing those he cares for at his own hand. With Aronofsky he has placed his Noah on the list of great biblical performances along with Charlton Heston and many others.

Anthony Hopkins gives an endearing and rather comedic performance (look out for the mention of berries) as Noah's grandfather; the wise Methuselah, the make-up must be praised, Hopkins has been aged convincingly well beyond his years, adding to the awe and realism of his character. Jennifer Connelly who has a tried and tested relationship with Crowe from their previous collaboration; A Beautiful Mind (2001) plays Noah's wife. A woman loyal past the point of expectation, but her undying faith in her husband and his cause are called into question as he gets deeper and deeper into the task. Her place lies first and foremost with her son's, she is intent on keeping them safe which is why she goes along with her husband, so that her boys will have a new life in a better world. When her family comes into the firing line of Noah keeping to his word with the Creator, Naameh has a hard decision to make, backing her husband or going against him for the sake of her sons.

Noah's sons, Shem, Ham and Japheth are played by up-and-coming English actor Douglas Booth, Logan Lerman and in his first credited film Leo McHugh Carroll. Japheth is definitely a background character and Booth is short changed as eldest son Shem, though he does get better screen time and scenes towards the end of the film. But the focus in the movie definitely lies with Ham, from the beginning it is clear he is different from his brothers, he does not accept what his father teaches them as quickly. He is curious and if the saying is anything to go by that can be dangerous. Lerman is brilliant in the role, showing perfectly the resentment that is rising steadily in Ham and also portraying the sweet nature he ultimately has. It is through Ham's character that we really see how difficult an undertaking this is for the whole family. Ham represents us as an audience, portraying both the good and the bad that is in us.

Emma Watson in a truly adult role, is proving that there is definitely life after Potter and she is going to make the most of it. She plays Ila, a young girl that is adopted into Noah's family when they find her injured whilst travelling. She adds an interesting morality to the story, she is in a relationship with Shem but due to her injury she is barren and cannot give him children. With a male and female of each species of animal taken onto the ark to repopulate the planet, she questions her right to a place if she cannot provide. Watson gives an incredibly dramatic performance and holds her own against the likes of Crowe and Hopkins. I have no doubt that she will have an outstanding career and go very far.

Ray Winstone plays the bad guy of the movie Tubal-caine, he is the self professed king/leader of the humans and he believes he owns the land and ark which Noah has built. He is not going to go down without a fight intending to make it onto that ark to save himself. There is an interesting relationship between him and Ham, Caine represents everything that the Creator wants to rid his world of. But it is these features that mystify Ham, struggling to accept the words of his father he looks to the only other male figure he can see. This leads to a great story arc for Logan Lerman's character. Winstone hams it up (excuse the pun) very well, obviously at ease playing the baddie. But I personally have never been a fan and find him quite distracting, Winstone is a cockney through and through, nothing wrong with that. But having a cockney talking to Noah in ancient times just personally brings me out of the story. I'd have preferred if he had even attempted a different accent.

All in all despite what some critics might say, Noah is a film that should be seen, and definitely on the big screen, the kind of effects used by Aronofsky can only truly be appreciated on a cinema screen with surround sound. The film also holds a moral message, it is almost something of a warning, has much changed since the times of Noah? Can we take away a message from the film, to be better and treat the planet and each other respectably. I hope so. Happy Earth Day everyone.

Top 10 Judy Garland Films

Judy Garland is without a doubt my favourite entertainer, I have been drawn to her performances and her music since I was a teenager. She has a magnetism and charisma that made her one of Hollywood's greatest stars and the biggest talent of the Golden Era of Musicals.

Garland is still considered a superstar for performances in some of the best loved musicals of all time. But not only that she was an amazing dramatic actress and was not used to her full potential by the studios.

Wildly mistreated and abused, she has become a Hollywood cautionary tale. However despite all the drama surrounding her, the legacy she has left us is nothing short of remarkable. Here is the list of my favourite of her performances and films.

10 - Girl Crazy (1943)

Running Time: 1 Hour 35 mins
Genre: Musical/Romance
Director: Norman Taurog/Busby Berkeley
Stars: Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney, June Allyson

The fourth and last in a series of backyard musicals directed by Busby Berkeley and starring opposite Mickey Rooney (her greatest on-screen partner). Girl Crazy tells of a young man Danny (Rooney) rich on life and girls who is sent to a remote boys school in the west by his despairing father. Being the only girl Danny is immediately drawn to Ginger (Judy) but she is tough and has no time for this city boy.
With great songs and set pieces this is an adorable movie.

09 - For Me and My Gal (1942)

Running Time: 1 Hour 45 mins
Genre: Musical/War
Director: Busby Berkeley
Stars: Judy Garland, Gene Kelly, George Murphy

Remembered largely for being Gene Kelly's first film he credited Judy with teaching him how to behave on camera. Gene and Judy are Harry Palmer and Jo Hayden two vaudeville actors who end up partnering and eventually falling in love. But they are interrupted by the War, Harry injures himself in a cowardly attempt to get out of being drafted, which works. But in the process he loses Jo, he goes out of his way to get to the front the only way he now can, by entertaining the troops. Great music and a sweet ending, nice and simple plot, priceless.

08 - In the Good Old Summertime (1949)

Running Time: 1 Hour 40 mins
Genre: Musical/Comedy
Director: Robert Z. Leonard
Stars: Judy Garland, Van Johnson, S. Z. Sakall

The second of three takes on the script (the first The Shop Around the Corner (1940) with James Stewart, last You've Got Mail (1998) with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan). It is the story of 2 shop employees who cannot stand each other. Both are having romances by mail not realising that they are writing and in love with each other. This is a charming and hilarious take on the simple romance.

07 - The Wizard of Oz (1939)

Running Time: 1 Hour 40 mins
Genre: Musical/Fantasy
Director: Victor Fleming/George Cukor
Stars: Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger

The most watched film of all time for many years, it remains a classic musical for all generations. It is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year and is more popular now than the year it was released.
A young girl Dorothy Gale is transported in her house by a twister from her farm in Kansas to the magical land of Oz over the rainbow.
She meets many new friends and unsavoury characters in her attempt to make it home. Fantastic cinematography, classic songs and a great moral message.

06 - Summer Stock (1950)

Running Time: 1 Hour 45 mins
Genre: Musical/Romance
Director: Charles Walters
Stars: Judy Garland, Gene Kelly, Phil Silvers

The last film Judy made for MGM before she was fired that same year. Summer Stock tells of a young farm owner Jane Falbury who feels obligated to run her families farm and marry her neighbour. Until her life is turned upside down by the arrival of her sister Abigail and her boyfriend Joe (Kelly) and a full stock company intent on putting on a show in her barn. At first she resists but eventually she comes to enjoy this exciting lifestyle and understands Joe rather better than her sister does. A lovely old Hollywood musical.

05 - Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)

Running Time: 1 Hour 50 mins
Genre: Musical/Family
Director: Vincente Minnelli
Stars: Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien, Mary Astor

A christmas classic, future husband Vincente Minnelli shot Garland at her most beautiful angles. She is Esther the third of 5 children in the Smith family. The film takes the audience back to 1903 and the build up to the world fair in St. Louis and the romantic tribulations of the two eldest smith girls. With great songs (including Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas - now an annual classic) and a brilliantly simple but moving story about family this is a must see, especially during the holidays.

04 - The Clock (1945)

Running Time: 1 Hour 30 mins
Genre: Drama/Romance/War
Director: Vincente Minnelli
Stars: Judy Garland, Robert Walker, James Gleason

The first dramatic role she ever took, this sees Judy's Alice Mayberry meet a young soldier Joe Allen on a 2 day leave in New York. Knowing nobody she agrees to show him the sights. They find it increasingly difficult to say goodbye and find more and more things to do together. Over the space of his leave they fall in love and decide to get married before he returns to camp. They rush against time to accomplish it. A wonderfully shot film (Vincente Minnelli was brought in at Judy's insistence) and a story which must be true to the life of many young lovers during the hard years of war.

03 - Judgement at Nuremberg (1961)

Running Time: 3 Hours
Genre: Drama/War
Director: Stanley Kramer
Stars: Spencer Tracy, Burt Lancaster, Judy Garl

Only a small part in an all star cast about the trials of the German judges after the end of the war. Garland plays a German woman who in her younger life was persecuted for having a relationship with a Jewish man which was categorically forbidden. She is called to the stand as a witness against the injustice. This is one of the most harrowing and outstanding performances I have witnessed. Judy was Oscar nominated for the film, (she should have won). At 3 hours it is a long film and Judy is barely in it, but it is worth seeing for her unbelievably moving part.

02 - Easter Parade (1948)

Running Time: 1 Hour 45 mins
Genre: Musical/Romance
Director: Charles Walters
Stars: Judy Garland, Fred Astaire, Peter Lawford, Ann Miller

Meant for Gene Kelly until he broke his ankle, this brought Astaire out of retirement. They made a great team in this story of a song and dance man Don Hewes whose partner leaves him to go solo. He finds a new woman Hannah Brown (Judy) who he decides to mold into his old partner to prove he doesn't need her and can use anybody. He soon realises that Hannah has talents of her own and begins to utilise them. They also fall in love during the long hours rehearing and performing. Excellent songs from the great Irving Berlin and great chemistry between 2 masters of their trade.


01 - A Star is Born (1954)

Running Time: 1 Hour 50 mins
Genre: Musical/Drama
Director: George Cukor
Stars: Judy Garland, James Mason, Jack Carson

By far the greatest performance of her career she was robbed of the Best Actress Oscar (by Grace Kelly) for her role as Esther Blodgett the bar singer who is noticed by the famous actor Norman Maine. They fall in love and marry but as her star rises and she becomes the beloved Vicki Lester, his begins to fall due to his addiction to alcohol and their relationship suffers.
A moving masterpiece until it was butchered in editing by Warner Brothers this should have been Garland's big comeback to pictures. Never-the-less she is outstanding musically and dramatically, in this tale ironically close to her own life.


So that is my list, all amazing performances, perhaps surprising to some, I feel her best performances were those that required her not to sing but to dramatically act, and she was absolutely capable of that. In a career that started as a small child all the way up to her tragically premature death (she was only 47) she was always outstanding. Standing at only 4 foot 11" she had a voice that could bounce off a 3 story ceiling, and those eyes could express so much without a single word uttered. If I could introduce even one person to this unbelievable actress and her body of work I consider my time well spent.

Hope you watch the films and enjoyed the list. Let me know what you think in the comments below.

Labor Day (2014)

Running Time: 1 Hour 45 mins
Genre: Drama
Estimated Budget: $18, 000,000
Estimated Gross (USA 16th March): $13, 362,308

Director: Jason Reitman
Writer: Joyce Maynard (novel) Jason Reitman (screenplay)
Stars: Kate Winslet, Josh Brolin, Gattlin Griffith

My Rating: 7/10

Labor Day was supposed to be released in February, it got held back over a month and a half. After seeing the trailer around christmas time and Kate Winslet being one of my favourite actresses I was desperately awaiting its release.

Labor Day is exactly what you see in the trailer, a story of two people who for different circumstances are struggling through life. When they meet an understanding and love forms in a matter of hours, with the constant threat of it being taken away, they cling tightly to each other for support.

The story of an eventful Labor Day in the mid eighties is told in retrospect by an adult Henry through the narration of Tobey Maguire. He relates how he and his single mother Adele (Winslet) who lives a secluded and lonely life since her husband left her, go on their monthly visit to the supermarket for supplies over Labor Day weekend. In the store Henry (Griffith) is approached by a man who asks for his help. He is bleeding and looks suspicious but is tall muscular and not someone you would say no to in a hurry. Under pressure for the safety of her son, Adele agrees to take this stranger; Frank to their home and he hides out there. It is revealed that he is an escaped convict who is serving life in prison for murder. When neighbours call, Frank realises that to save this small family he must tie Adele up so it does not look like she is willingly housing a fugitive. Both Adele and Henry pick up that their is something rather strange about Frank. He has a quiet, calm and soothing nature, nothing like what a criminal is imagined to be like. There is an instant connection between Frank and Adele, both are craving human touch and understanding, something that the teenage Henry is just on the cusp of finding out for himself being too young to understand the need as yet.

Things get complicated when Frank is persuaded to stay, even in Adele and Henry's uneventful and lonely existence their is still the outside world which breaks into their little bubble every now and then. For this reason living with a convict is living on a knifes edge. Through Frank they learn to enjoy the little things, freedom and appreciation being the most important. But they are snapped back into their tense reality by patrolling police cars, news reports and invading neighbours. It can only be a matter of time before the inevitable happens, it is just a case of when and how they will be discovered.

Labor Day is not the usual Jason Reitman film, known for the likes of Juno (2007), Up in the Air (2009) and Young Adult (2011) which are all incredibly well written scripts focusing very much on dialogue. Labor Day breaks the mould as a lot of the drama takes place through quiet almost still action and glances. With a narration that runs through the entire film at regular intervals there is little need for much dialogue as all the explanations are told to you through Maguire's calming tones.

Frank is an interesting character, well developed to a point; he is a criminal and we see his background in flashbacks, mostly silent montages. However towards the climax of these we are given less and less information and left to piece together the events. What invests us in his character is that despite his conviction we like him, we support him and we desperately want him to get away with Adele and Henry and start afresh.

Gattlin Griffith was a great find, he is very expressive, this is a brilliant first film for him. The film says so much through glances and suggestion, Griffith is able to keep us informed of every feeling and thought without uttering a word; a trait that his co-stars have said to have admired in him. Kate Winslet gives a subdued and reserved performance, contrasting her usual strong vocal characters. But this silence was required for the fragile Adele. Brolin is another vocal actor that has his volume and strength taken away from him to create a slow emotion filled performance, he put a lot of feeling into a character that needed to show years of suffering and grief. Director Reitman told him and Winslet to really hold back, it was something they had to think about as their natural reactions had to be overridden to create an almost still pace.

The peach scene is one that has and will be talked about, like the famous pottery scene from Ghost (1990) except with peaches and dough and an awkward teenager third wheeling. Will it be a classic moment in film, time will tell. Brolin baked endless pies during the making of the film to deliver an effortless performance as if he'd being doing it for years.

If I had to use one word to describe this film I would use simmering; that describes the unlikely romance that gently and slowly builds, the tension which is felt by this small manufactured family and the heat which is very evident at times, recalling Body Heat (1981) and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958) where the heat is like a character.

This was a well written and well thought out script with a great cast with solid performances. This is a great one for a friday evening with a chilled glass of wine and a box of After Eights. Hope you enjoy.

Easter Films

Happy Easter Weekend everyone!
In honour of the season and a few well deserved days off work, here is a list of great films to watch over the Easter break.
With religious, dramatic and of course family friendly movies included. If you don't feel like running out to the cinema to see Noah (2014) this weekend I hope you get a chance to watch at least one of these classics over the next few days. I know I will be.

Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory (1971)
Running Time: 1 Hour 40 mins
Genre: Fantasy/Musical/Family
Director: Mel Stuart
Stars: Gene Wilder, Jack Albertson, Peter Ostrum
My Rating: 9/10

A childhood favourite what better time whilst munching on chocolate eggs to watch Charlie Bucket win his golden ticket to visit the mysterious chocolate factory that the strange and kooky Mr Wonka is opening for the day. Full of amazing sets and wonderful songs; a great film for all the family, with a great heart and moral message too.
This is on my watch list.





Easter Parade (1948)
Running Time: 1 Hour 45 mins
Genre: Musical
Director: Charles Walters
Stars: Judy Garland, Fred Astaire, Ann Miller, Peter Lawford
My Rating: 9/10

How can you not watch a movie with Easter in the title this Easter weekend.One of my favourite Judy Garland films, she pairs with the incomparable Fred Astaire who plays a song and dance man who needs a new partner. At first he moulds Garland's Hannah Brown into an image of the old pertner (Miller) but begins to discover she has far more talents being herself. A musical full to bursting with amazing Irving Berlin songs and masterful dances. This is one for the whole family.


The Song of Bernadette (1943)
Running Time: 2 Hours 35 mins
Genre: Biography/Drama
Director: Henry King
Stars: Jennifer Jones, Charles Bickford, Vincent Price
My Rating: 9/10

A film loved by my mum and passed on to me. Jennifer Jones is the titular Bernadette a young sickly peasant girl in 1858 Lourdes, France. In the city dump she sees the vision of a beautiful lady, she never claims it to be anything other than what she describes but the townsfolk assume it is the Virgin Mary and ridicule her. Town officials try to make out that she is mad and try to silence her, frightened of the large following she is getting. The claims become a phenomenon and change the lives of all involved, except Bernadette who remains innocent, kind and selfless to the last. A beautiful film about faith and honesty, a must see.

Ben-Hur (1959)

Running Time: 3 Hours 30 mins
Genre: Adventure/Drama
Director: William Wyler
Stars: Charlton Heston, Jack Hawkins, Stephen Boyd

Remembered for the famous chariot race, and its then record breaking win of 11 Academy Awards. Ben-Hur is the epic tale of a Jewish Prince who is betrayed by an old Roman friend and sent into slavery. He vows to regain his freedom and come back for revenge.
A Hollywood classic they just don't make em like this any more, don't balk at the length. This is perfect for a relaxing Sunday afternoon.






The Ten Commandments (1956)
Running Time: 2 Hours 40 mins
Genre: Historical Epic/Drama/Adventure
Director: Cecil B. DeMille
Stars: Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, Anne Baxter

Known for creating great biblical epics Cecil B. DeMille re-imagines his 1923 classic this time bigger, better and in Technicolour. Can't get enough of Charlton Heston? Here he is again as Moses the adopted Prince of the Pharaoh who learns of his true Hebrew heritage. He is cast out of Egypt but returns on a divine message from god to deliver his people to freedom. But this does not go down well with Rameses now Pharaoh, he will fight even god to keep his slaves.
A thrilling movie for this Easter break, the great historical epic has a great message and its visuals will stick in your mind long after it has ended.

King of Kings (1961)
Running Time: 2 Hours 45 mins
Genre: Historical Epic/Drama
Director: Nicholas Ray
Stars: Jeffrey Hunter, Rip Torn, Frank Thring
My Rating: 8/10

King of Kings is the life of Jesus on a grand scale. From his birth in Bethlehem to his crucifixion and later resurrection plus everything in between. Considering the season this is the perfect film for the Easter Break, the charming and gorgeous blue eyed Jeffrey Hunter plays Jesus surrounded by a cast of familiar faces in an array of kind to outright vicious performances. This is a classic well worth a watch despite its length (but lets face it there are longer).

The Greatest Story Ever Told (1965)
Running Time: 3 Hours 45 mins
Genre: History/Drama
Director: George Stevens
Stars: Max Von Sydow, Charlton Heston, Angela Lansbury

This time George Stevens took a turn at telling one of the most famous stories in history. Max Von Sydow plays Jesus of Nazareth heading a truly star studded cast. What can you say about the life of Jesus, it was an epic story which needs an epic adaptation. The Greatest Story Ever Told fits the bill.

Another great example of a classic movie perfect for Easter.

Hop (2011)
Running Time: 1 Hour 35 mins
Genre: Animation/Family
Director: Tim Hill
Stars: Russell Brand, James Marsden

Part animation part live action, this fun Easter romp is channelling Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988). E.B. is the son of the one and only Easter Bunny he is heir to the family business but all he wants to do is become a famous drummer in Hollywood. He runs away from home and is taken in by Fred (Marsden) but when a plot to take over the business comes to fruition. E.B along with Fred must save Easter.
A great one for the kids, and some of you adults too, and perfect for this Easter weekend.

The Passion of the Christ (2004)
Running Time: 2 Hours 5 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: Mel Gibson
Stars: Jim Caviezel, Maia Morgenstern, Monica Bellucci

One of Mel Gibson's huge directing undertakings and highly criticised, this is a condensed story of Jesus. Focusing on just the final twelve hours of his life after he has been betrayed by Judas Iscariot and is arrested for proclaiming he is the 'Son of God'. A moving take from the actor turned director.
This one is just for the adults, put the kids to bed before you settle down for this one.

The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)
Running Time: 2 Hours 40 mins
Genre: Drama
Director: Martin Scorsese
Stars: Willem Dafoe, Harvey Keitel, Barbara Hershey

Another one for the adults and again very highly criticised on its release. Dafoe plays a very human Jesus, one with doubts and temptations not unlike the rest of us. Scorsese tells the life of Jesus with his usual gritty but classic style.

Yet another varied telling of the historical tale which leaves its own indelible mark. Storytelling and directing at its finest.

Jesus Christ Superstar (1973)
Running Time: 1 Hour 45 mins
Genre: Musical
Director: Norman Jewison
Stars: Ted Neeley, Carl Anderson, Yvonne Elliman

Well as if there weren't enough films about Jesus, they decided that what was really missing was a musical. This is the film adaptation of the hit West End stage musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. The film was actually shot in Israel adding that realistic element, and with an added song written just for the film, this is an adaptation for the fans of the musical and the story.
Lloyd Webber and Rice are both musical geniuses so you can't go wrong with a sing-a-long this Easter.