5: IN BRUGES

Why I chose it?

I'm always up for crime movies with a bit of dark comedy, and based on the previews, this seemed to fit into that category quite well. I also saw an interview with the director (who has a background in theatre) and it sounded interesting.

Where?

Cinema 12, Wandsworth Southside Shopping Centre, 8.25pm (took the 28 bus from Paddington

Comments?

I really enjoyed this one. Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson and Ralph Fiennes were superb, delivering a witty and entertaining script perfectly.

There's dark humour for sure, and more than its fair share of violence, but there are underlying mature themes that are delivered with subtlety and skill. One particular scene had me close to tears, not of laughter, but sadness - an event that drives one of the characters to great despair.

But there's comedy to be had here too. There are laugh out loud classic lines even if the jokes are non PC and there are enough C bombs to warrant the 18 rating. On the face of it, these elements interlaced with drawn out Bruges snapshots and a simple melodic soundtrack don't seem to gel, but take my word for it, it all fits perfectly.

Slow at times, cliche ridden at others, but entertaining and thought provoking.

Dark with a heart.

Would I pay to see it?

For sure - this movie has more substance than anything Guy Ritchie has produced and it has better laughs.

Rating?

7 out of 10

Post Movie Quote:

"Very good - really enjoyed it. Now how the f$*k do I get home from here?!" Daryl Nilbett, while searching for the nearest bus stop.

Paying For It - Number 1

Sometimes, you just have to pay for it.

Although I have an unlimited Cineworld card that allows me free movies for a year, there are moments, sometimes within in my control, sometimes out of my control, where I will have to fork over the £10 plus to catch the latest flick.

As I have a target of reaching 100 free movies in one year (and because I love getting things for free), I won't be handing over my hard earned cash that often. But sometimes a movie warrants a big event type screening at an eff off sized theatre complex with 1/2 mile screens and a defeaning sound system - i.e. IMAX cinemas - or it justifies paying a little over the odds to enjoy a comfortable screening in a cinema where hardly any punter turns up - i.e. Apollo cinema.

And of course, sometimes, I just can't get to a Cineworld cinema. But that is rare, as they are all over the place.

Last weekend, Kathy and I were in Edinburgh for the marathon (well done, Kath on the PB!). Post marathon relaxation (yes, I was exhausted from all the supporting and cheering) included a flick at the local Vue cinema. There is a Cineworld in Edinburgh but it is in Haymarket and is a little out of the way if you are staying in Leith - so, I pulled out the wallet and paid over the cash.

But, I didn't mind - because I went to see (with big booming voice):

INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL

Let's just say it was money well spent. I will save my review for when I watch it again (for free) but I can safely say that it was a very entertaining movie with Indy back and at his best, despite the ludicrous ending.

I'm giving it a few weeks before watching it again, but watch out for it in the 100 sooner rather than later.

Best Free Movie Of The Year - Nomination - Month #1

In the fourth week of April 2009, I will be picking my favourite movie from the 100 seen during my year of free cinema. I expect that there will be numerous contenders for the crown, so in order to make it easier on myself (and make up the numbers re: blog entries), I will select the best movie I've seen each month and thus nominating them for the coveted award of BEST FREE MOVIE OF THE YEAR.

During Month 1 (constituting April 21 to May 20), I saw four movies, well below the average of 8 1/3 movies a month required to hit the big 100. A slow month for sure, but there wasn't a dud amongst them - quality, not quantity, is what I'm talking about.

All four movies had me leaving the cinema thinking - they made an impression. Some more than others and all in their own special way.

However, without further ado, I announce the first nomination for Best Free Movie Of The Year:

THE ORPHANAGE

This was the first movie I saw with my Cineworld free movie card, so it has some nostalgic significance, but it is also the pick of the bunch - a frightening but ultimately moving horror story delivered perfectly and with heart - a true contender for the BFMOTY.

On to Month 2!

4 : SPEED RACER

Why I chose it?

The Wachowski brothers - those dudes who came up with The Matrix Trilogy - said to have pushed the boundaries on visual effects once again!

Where?

Cinema 2, Hammersmith, 8.20pm (right after Iron Man with only enough time for a 6" Sub)

Comments?

All I can say is WOW. Yeah, it's pretty much a kid's flick, a little cheesy and some of the race scenes are confusing, but with the AMAZING CGI effects and a great cast, this is definitely a must see. It's bold in its visuals, writing and direction and its nothing like anything you've ever seen before.

You'll either hate it or love it but you will definitely be impressed by it! Take the kids if you've got 'em!

Would I pay to see it?

My word yes, this movie stayed with me a long time afterwards (and not just because of the catchy theme song). If I get a chance, I'll be doing a repeat viewing. Might even go and see it at IMAX in 3D.

Rating?

8 out of 10

Post Movie Quote:

"Go Speed Racer, Go Speed Racer, Go Speed Racer, GO!!" Repeating over and over in Daryl Nilbett's head.

3 : IRON MAN

Why I chose it?

Robert Downey Jnr really. Yes, I was pretty keen to see a good superhero movie and the trailer looked exciting, but it was Mr Downey Jnr's turn as Tony Stark which drew me in - it was supposed to be quite a unique character as superhero's ulter egos go.

Where?

Cinema 4, Hammersmith, 5.30pm (had to run to make it!)

Comments?

The effects were very good and the build up to how Stark becomes Iron Man was interesting, but it was Robert Downey Jnr who made this movie watchable - very entertaining. As for the plot, the backstory dominated the movie leaving little room for any big time battles except for the finale, which was okay at today's superhero movie standards. Jeff Bridges was excellent as Obadiah Stane - a far cry from The Dude but entertaining nonetheless.

Would I pay to see it?

I think I would: it was enjoyable and Downey Jnr was quite funny.

Rating?

6.5 out of 10

Post Movie Quote:

"Very entertaining, but what's next? Ah, yes - Speed Racer!" Daryl Nilbett.