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A Hijacking 2012
A straightforward, realistic story with strong performances from both Malling and Asbaek. However, the compressed timeline and the concentration of the film on the negotations rather than the hostages makes it feel a little detached and not overly satisfying.
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Star Trek Into Darkness 2013
Back onboard the Starship Enterprise for another solid and entertaining adventure. As with the first film, the main reason it works so well is the casting, which is nigh on perfect. Cumberbatch makes a great villain and the dynamic between Kirk and Spock is so much fun to watch. Theres a lot of fan service in Into Darkness and whilst it does veer towards the superfluous, its hard not to raise a chuckle or smile at the various nods to previous Treks.
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Iron Man 3 2013
After the anemic second film its a welcome relief that this is roughly on par with the first, though very different in tone. Whereas the first film played within the realms of possibility, the third goes full blown fantasy. Lifting most of its elements from the Warren Ellis' Extremis arc, its been well and truly Shane Black-ified, most notably with regards to humour. The action in general is well handled and the set-pieces in particular are worthy of praise; particularly…
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The Place Beyond the Pines 2013
Split into three acts, its the first with Gosling (channeling some of his Drive character) thats the most engrossing. Unfortunately, about halfway through the second with Cooper it started to meander and my attention followed suit. By the final act all i could think of was, how the hell was De Haan the product of a Gosling and Mendes union? and, his receding hairline surely doesn't befit a 17 year old? and, what the hell is chubby Skeet mumbling? Still,…
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This Is Spinal Tap 1984
1 better than Spinal Tarp.
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Gangster Squad 2013
Pulpy, generic, bland and forgettable.
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Bernie 2012
This review reportedly contains spoilers. I can handle the truth.
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Comic-Con Episode Four: A Fan's Hope 2011
Theres just not enough meat on the bones of the 4 main story strands but its mildly diverting.
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Ruby Sparks 2012
Adaptation, Stranger Than Fiction and Weird Science - 3 films it tries to ape and fails miserably at. Plus, Dano's character is one miserable, unlikeable bastard.
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Django Unchained 2012
Theres great performances throughout, however, its Waltz's performance and character that takes a firm grip for the majority of the film and its an utter delight. Much more comedic than i initially expected, its full of sharp writing; witty dialogue and great sight gags. Its a bit flabby towards the end and could have done with being tightened up a little but from start to finish its an entertainin' ride.
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Safety Not Guaranteed 2012
Despite travelling the path well trod in indie quirkiness its quite a charming little rom-scifi-com. Duplass does a sterling job playing the nut.
