Paying For It - Number 4 (The Thing)

As part of Cineworld's Universal re-release series, I went with five others to watch the brilliant sci-fi/horror classic John Carpenter's The Thing, starring Kurt Russell.

I've seen the movie a number of times but never on the big screen, and Cineworld West India Quay was the perfect place to do just that. Universal had touched up the quality a bit, leaving the quality of picture immaculate, especially with the white snow covered landscape of the Antarctic (or British Columbia in reality).

Only slightly dated, the movie is still a brilliant horror film with impressive Rob Bottin effects and a tangible sense of claustrophobia and paranoia. The only negative comment about the experience was the significant lip sync issues, due to either the re-mastered print or the fault of the cinema.

The Thing: a repeat viewing worth the admission price.

I'll finish off with my favourite line from the movie:

"I know you gentlemen have been through a lot . . . but when you find the time . . . I'd rather not spend the rest of this winter TIED TO THIS FUCKING COUCH!"

49: INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS

Although slightly disappointed with Death Proof, it didn't take me a second to say 'yes' to Tarantino's latest. Part one of a two movie night at Staples Corner - party animal!

Fitting somewhere between Jackie Brown and Kill Bill No. 1, this is Tarantino back on form. Long drawn out scenes, great dialogue, and excessive violence - it's all here and in pure QT style. Constant references to Nazi killing don't always sit well, but if you didn't catch the tongue in cheek tone of the film in the second act, you will in the final one. Not a masterpiece, but very entertaining.

8 out of 10

48: MESRINE: KILLER INSTINCT

Part one of the two part biopic of French gangster Jacques Mesrine. French production, Vincent Cassel and good early buzz. No signs of Che-itis with the two movie split.

Entertaining swashbuckling type tale of a hard French criminal who is attractive in his endeavours (e.g. attempting to bust out criminals from a prison that subsequently is closed down over its questionable practices) and brutal when cornered (e.g. against a couple of park rangers). Raw, French and engaging stuff. Good turns by Cassel and Depardieu. More than just a prelude to Mesrine Part Deux.

7 out of 10

47: MOON

The previews suggested an atmospheric, claustrophobic, old fashioned science fiction movie in the style of 2001 and Alien. Something we've all been waiting for.

Three things made this movie an amazing experience - Duncan Jones skilfully subtle direction, Sam Rockwell's stellar 'one-man band' performance, and the moody music of Clint Mansell lurking in the background. Moon is a throwback to the smart sci fi movies of the 70s and one that is entirely welcome.

Side note: The soundtrack is so good, I bought it the next day.

Second side note: Adrian McKinty compares Moon to another sci fi classic here.

8 out of 10

46: PUBLIC ENEMIES

The long awaited next Michael Mann movie - love his stuff and with Depp and Bale starring, it can't go wrong.

The inevitable comparisons to Heat can be made (and there are a few similarities) but Mann's latest is an entertaining and beautifully shot movie in its own right. As is Mann's style, he takes his time, scenes playing out at their own pace; the movie simmers. This is a movie that entertains the brain cells and will hold up to repeat viewings - a beautifully constructed and captivating telling of John Dillinger's life as Public Enemy No. 1. To appreciate not only Depp, Bale, et al and Mann's subtle direction, but also the crystal clear digital photography - go see it on the big screen, if it isn't too late. The worst thing is: having to wait for Mann's next one!!

8.5 out of 10

45: THE PRIVATE LIVES OF PIPPA LEE

Again Haymarket gets a look in - it's one of the Cineworld cinemas that seem to show movies on limited release (and these are the movies that I find most enjoyable). This particular movie was outside my usual viewing remit, but it was deemed worth a go.

Another dose of memorable performances in a similar vein to Fireflies. Most notable: Alan Arkin, Winona Ryder and Maria Bello. Entertaining story. I came to conclusion that even though Kenau Reeves's character is the self confessed asshole, Arkin's Herb Lee is the true baddie of the piece: manipulative, selfish and cruel. Up to you to see it and agree/disagree.

7 out of 10

44: STATE OF PLAY

Three more movies (excluding this one) and I will be up to date. Saw this a while back at Haymarket - the cinema with the pillar in line of sight of the screen.

This movie had potential to be a thought provoking political thriller but turned out to be a by-the-numbers "so what" type of movie with a flimsy ending. Russell Crowe is always good but the rest, excluding Jason Bateman, are mediocre. Even the ever reliable Helen Mirren doesn't rate - forced to utter cockney rhyming slang and other wince inducing lines to remind the audience she's English. TV series is supposed to be better, so I'd stick with that.

5 out of 10