Wonder Woman (2017)- Short Film Review

Wonder Woman (2017) directed by Patty Jenkins (known for the 2003 hit Monster starring Charlize Theron) hits the right notes for DC Comics. Offering the franchise its best since last year’s Batman Vs Superman.

Centred around Greek mythology, the Amazonian tribe and the British intelligence fighting the Germans. W.W goes above its fictional premise to work as a touching action drama, with heart. Get ready to experience a young warriors rise to greatness, a life she knew she was destined for a long as she battles to protect mankind from the evil Ares (God of War).

Further focusing on human greed, love for mankind and above all war. In what could have been a very superficial over diluted film, Wonder Woman doesn’t fail as a blockbuster action hit, with a female protagonist at its helm.

 

Overall Wonder Woman features some of DC Comics best visuals since last years Batman Vs Superman. However, for me, this film in particular really moved me, beyond its visuals and effects, with a clear and concise storyline. Further adding themes of family, love not war and unity. Making it a film with clear heart, out of all the DC Comics films thus far. Also, its female-centric narrative on strength, courage and power works to inspire young girls and female everywhere to stand up for what they believe (adding to the film’s success and overall critical reception, considering it was liked by the masses).

Trailer

 

 

My Rating: 7.5/10

With action, great special effects and even stellar lead ‘Wonder Woman’ is the exact vehicle Gal Gadot needed to reach international acclaim, alongside partnering with the very talented Patty Jenkins of Monster (2003)  fame. Be sure to check out this instant summer hit now, as you witness Gadots rise as the female superhero we have all been waiting for, for a long time.

Bibliography

Warner Bros. Pictures. (2017). WONDER WOMAN – Official Origin Trailer. [Online Video]. 11 March 2017. Available from:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INLzqh7rZ-U. [Accessed: 9 July 2017].

Manpop. 2017. Wonder Woman (2017) – Review | Mana Pop. [ONLINE] Available at: http://manapop.com/film/wonder-woman-2017-review/. [Accessed 09 July 2017].

 

 

Baby Driver (2017): Short Film Review

 

Source: https://cdn.bleedingcool.net

 

Edgar Wright (known for Hot Fuzz & Shaun of the Dead) returns with an accelerated entry into mainstream cinema. Filled with fast-paced action, witty and sharp dialogue, stellar acting (from the likes of Kevin Spacey, John Hamm and Ansel Elgort). B.D is much more than its title which is suggestive of a comedy spoof drama. ‘Baby Driver’ can also be seen as a crossover between ‘Transporter’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ with an all-star soundtrack and fast-paced driving sequences, adding to the films appropriate rating of being certified as a 15 [Rated R].

‘Baby Driver’ can be seen (in my eyes) as an unofficial crossover between ‘Transporter’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ with an all-star soundtrack and fast-paced driving sequences, adding to the films appropriate rating of being certified as a 15 [Rated R].

In short, the movie revolves around a getaway driver completing numerous assignments in order to clear his debt with his boss (someone who he stole from years ago, representing his knack for ‘getaway driving’). However, once a heist (which is doomed to fail) goes horribly wrong the consequences are life changing for Baby and his former team.

Highlights of the film would have to include its stellar soundtrack. Considering each tune (whether that be a cover of a retro classic or a well-known punk song) really carries the film along. With each track acting as a marker post for the action to either heighten or be put into full drive. It’s a film which is clever, unique and well formulated (certainly proving a well-deserved entry into mainstream cinema for Edgar Wright himself).

 

Baby Driver deals with themes of family ties, love, trust, betrayal, strategy and above all survival. The theme of ‘survival’ within Baby Driver (2017) is very important. This is because the main character ‘Baby’ is trying to get out of the game but still goes back to it (for reasons made known within the film). Further suggesting commitment, loyalty as his character is one which does not complete a task half-heartedly. He does, however, progress as a character with the arrival of Debora (Played by Lily James) who becomes his love interest in the film, and ignites a new plan within Baby to follow. One which features trials and tribulations, but eventually leads them into a situation they’ve been dreaming of all along.

 

Film Stills: http://cinemavine.com/new-stills-from-edgar-wrights-baby-driver/ 

Further Reading: 

1. Baby Driver (2017) Film Discussion (possible spoilers)
2. Baby Driver (2017) & film theory (spoilers ahead)

Trailer:

Ansel Elgort carries himself well through charm and charisma. He is every part Baby on the screen, making us believe every cheeky smile and remark. Alongside a well brought together cast, Baby Driver shines. Make sure to check out this action blockbuster in a cinema near you. With explosive action, fast cars, a solid narrative and a top ensemble ‘Baby Driver’ is a film not to be missed.

My rating: 8.5/10

Activity: In Cinemas Now

 Bibliography

1) MovieclipsTrailers. (2017). Baby Driver (2017) Trailer. [Online Video]. 11 March 2017. Available from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9YZw_X5UzQ. [Accessed: 3 July 2017].
 
 
2) New Stills from Edgar Wright’s ‘Baby Driver’ Featuring Jon Hamm, Jamie Foxx & Lily James – Cinema Vine. 2017. New Stills from Edgar Wright’s ‘Baby Driver’ Featuring Jon Hamm, Jamie Foxx & Lily James – Cinema Vine. [ONLINE] Available at: http://cinemavine.com/new-stills-from-edgar-wrights-baby-driver/. [Accessed 03 July 2017].

3) IMDb. 2017. Hot Fuzz (2007) – IMDb. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0425112/. [Accessed 04 July 2017].

4) IMDb. 2017. Shaun of the Dead (2004) – IMDb. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0365748/. [Accessed 04 July 2017].

5) Car Throttle. 2017. Baby Driver Is The Fast And Furious Antidote The Car World Needed. [ONLINE] Available at:https://www.carthrottle.com/post/baby-driver-is-the-fast-and-furious-antidote-the-car-world-needed/. [Accessed 09 July 2017].

6) Film School Rejects. 2017. Freudian Formula One: Baby Driver’s Mommy Issues. [ONLINE] Available at:https://filmschoolrejects.com/baby-driver-mommy-issues/. [Accessed 09 July 2017].

7) www.bleedingcool.com. 2017. No page title. [ONLINE] Available at:https://www.bleedingcool.com/2017/06/01/two-new-trailers-baby-driver-highlight-soundtrack/. [Accessed 09 July 2017].

Doctor Strange (2016)- Extended Film Review

Marvel’s latest offering is one which is sure to impress some and confuse others immensely. A story centred around life itself and spirituality, encouraging us to think if we really are just a piece of matter or the soul itself.

Your probably thinking “well isn’t this all very deep for a Marvel movie”, with films such as Iron Man, Captain America and many more under their helm. The answer is “it is”, but you won’t be surprised how a lot of the elements from Marvels previous movies have been constructed formulaically to appear in their latest centre piece (not surprising right?). Putting all of this aside, upon close inspection ‘Doctor Strange’ certainly is “strange” but in a very euphoric way. A film heavily elevated by stunning visual effects (the best in my opinion of any Marvel film, alongside ‘Guardians of the Galaxy of course) and a very intricately woven story line, Marvels D.S certainly pushes itself passed its many cliches and predictable character arcs (to an extent).

In short, the film follows Doctor Strange (played by Benedict Cumberbatch), being involved in a serious car accident. More arrogant than he is polite, Cumberbatch’s character (as ‘Doctor Strange’) certainly doesn’t make things easy for himself upon being in recovery. But what can he do? The one part of his body he feels he needs the most is ruined, he used his hands for surgical operations, for discoveries, for life-saving operations. To him they are his asset, he is self-assured and very intelligent but he’s stuck in his ways, in one viewpoint without seeing the bigger picture.

Enter “mysterious figure 1” and many others with ‘unique’outcomes, leading to a battle between one’s self and the world. Without giving too much away, a lot of the film focuses on this notion of having a soul and understanding one’s self completely to appear as different versions of one’s self in this universe and the next, rather than just being present in one. It certainly makes for an intriguing watch, with science and Vedic literature (touched on briefly) by its side.

One particular highlight of the film, alongside its stellar cast would have to be the VFX used in Doctor Strange, as it most certainly ranks as Marvels best yet and of course the best for 2016 in terms of action superhero films.  You can check out the following video on the VFX/CGI used in Marvels Box office hit ‘Doctor Strange'(2016) right here:

Official trailer: 

My Rating: 9/10

Boosted by a fantastic lineup, including Benedict Cumberbatch, Tilda Swinton. ‘Doctor Strange’ is certainly Marvels best thus far. Entwined with science, spirituality and deeper meaning, ‘Doctor Strange’ should not be missed for one second! Get ready to immerse yourself in some of the best visual effects of 2016, and open your eyes to the true meaning of ‘the self’ and our karmic actions, to the way in which we herald our own ships. Buckle up and prepare yourself to be moved and truly transcended through time and reality, remembering not everything is what it seems.

Doctor Strange (2016) is now available on Blu Ray and DVD (from the 24th of February 2017/March 2017)

Bibliography

1) BBC Click (2017) Doctor strange: Visual effects revealed – BBC click. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWZZ2pThpyc (Accessed: 26 February 2017).

2) GIPHY (no date) Marvel GIF – find & share on GIPHY. Available at: http://giphy.com/gifs/beckychung-marvel-doctor-strange-3orif7N2qBUUJ2hUK4 (Accessed: 20 February 2017).

3) Marvel Entertainment (2016) Doctor strange official trailer 2. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSzx-zryEgM (Accessed: 20 February 2017).

Notting Hill (1999)- A Short Review

“I’m just a girl standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her”- ANNA SCOTT (Played by Julia Roberts)

Filled with comedy, drama and charm,‘Notting Hill’ certainly packs a punch as a well constructed romantic comedy. Heavily due to some stunning chemistry from the lead actors; Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant respectively.

In short, the film is about a happy go lucky book owner, down on love (or even let down by it). Who comes across a movie actress in his bookstore, completely oblivious to her fame and popularity. A story of two worlds colliding and hearts meeting, ‘Notting Hill’ should definitely be on your’must watch’ list.

Without giving too much away the film focuses on the true price of fame and the real value of love. A love so strong that’s tested by the pressures of fame but never broken by it. Whilst also touching on the themes of ‘self-identity/discovery’ and ‘belonging’.

One particular highlight of the film would have to be the appearance of Rhys Ifans character of ‘Spike’ (Grant’s roommate in the film). A character who is vulgar (hygiene wise) and honest, yet extremely lovable. For me, he really offered the movie a lot of comedy and also tongue and cheek humour. With some very hilarious one-liners and a screen presence so natural and comfortable, Rhys Ifans certainly made his character 3 dimensional in all the different ways possible.

As for stand out chemistry, this falls no further than Grants and Roberts’ characters. For example, when each character is in the same screen space as the other, the whole set lights up through spark,charisma and intellect. Its chemistry such as theirs, which truly transcends ‘Notting Hill’ into a very memorable classic that is still looked at as one of Britains best loved romantic films of the 90’s. Not to mention, the biggest hit within the UK in that year, making it a full on romantic blockbuster.

One other strong point of the film itself includes its soundtrack (by Trevor Jones). Each song features fittingly within the film, offering pure emotion and intensity when needed as oppose to well executed romantic ballads which sure go hand in hand with the film’s success and popularity, considering the soundtrack itself won a Brit Award. Which was truly deserved, as it certainly elevated the film to new heights in securing it with a winning OST.

For those who have not watched this romantic hit, I would recommend grabbing those tissues before viewing it.

It will certainly pull at your heart strings but also fill you with laughter along the way. Get ready to watch your heart flutter and soar with pure emotion, in a film that certainly exceeds expectation.

See the official trailer here ‘Movieclips (2011) Notting hill official trailer #1 – (1999)’ :

Rating: 8.8/10

Bibliography

Movieclips (2011) Notting hill official trailer #1 – (1999) HD. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4RI0QvaGoiI (Accessed: 29 December 2016).

Finding Dory (2016)- Short Film Review

“Just keep swimming, just keep swimming”- Dory

(TheEllenShow, 2016)

Disney Pixar’s Finding Nemo released in 2003 was an instant sure fire hit. With an emotional sensitive storyline about a father finding his son amongst the deep blue reef ‘Finding Nemo’ certainly blew us away at the time with its stunning visuals, excellent characters and its moments of comedic hilarity. Its no wonder that over 10 years along the line, Pixar have come up with another counterpart within the Finding Nemo series (which was at a time considered to be a stand alone film). Although many had their doubts as to how the latest offering from Pixar would far from the originals, fans of Finding Nemo and even Pixar have certainly welcomed ‘Finding Dory’ with open arms, even much so proving it to be another box office smash, which certainly gives us a sense of nostalgia in terms of thinking of ‘Finding Nemo’.

In short, the film focuses on Dory (the fish with short term memory loss, voiced by the eccentric prime time television host Ellen DeGeneres) who is on a mission to find out what happened to her parents, after a sudden recollection of her actually realising she had a family in the first place. The story is taken along by some new character entries, alongside Nemo and his Dad (which certainly makes us feel very fuzzy, in seeing the original trio back on our screens).

Without giving too much away, the stand out moments for me would have to be little Dory and her parents playing hide and seek. This is because its here that we see her short term memory loss really come to the surface, thus making us feel empathetic and emotional over little Dory’s frustration and even condition. However as her character arch develops so do is her memory, thus in this way we see her develop in various ways, making us feel proud and inspired by Dory’s strength, her ability to try and of course her way of not giving up.

To conclude, I would say ‘Finding Dory’ is a must see family film. This is because it really embodies everything that a family is (i.e supportive, diligent, focused and of course devotingly loving). In some ways it carries in deeper message in the way that it shows us even with our own ‘difficulties’ or ‘problems’ we must not give up, we must instead assess the situation differently in order to reach a tactical and reasonable outcome. Its in this way that we learn from our experiences, whilst also letting them not break us but instead shape us into  better versions of ourselves that we may not have been able to have found till now.

Rating: 9/10

A visually stunning film, with an equally emotive and transcending storyline. Packed with even more comedy, empathy and even hilarity, ‘Finding Dory’ certainly impresses in all areas. Its commanding, uplifting, inspiring and absorbing, a film which should not be missed!

‘Finding Dory’ (2016) is available now on Blu Ray and DVD (UK)

Bibliography

TheEllenShow (2016) You’ve found the latest ‘finding Dory’ trailer. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKJA-VLpiCo (Accessed: 22 December 2016).

 

 

Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016)- Extended Film Review

“Main kisi ki zaroorat nahin… Khwahish banna chahti hoon.”
– (Saba Taliyar Khan played by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan)

Director Karen Johar (known for: Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna, Kal Ho Na Ho, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai) is back on the silver screen offering up another melodrama Johar style. With his last release Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna (based around an extra-marital affair), back in 2006. Karen is back with a film surrounding a  similar narrative, however, this time focusing on the relationship between two best friends. Although as a film-maker Johar has a knack of upping the glitz and drama in each of his films, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil certainly showcases his maturity and transition into a more evolved piece of adult cinema. This isn’t to say that his films are not fit for all, as they are dramas which can be enjoyed with ones family. However, his latest release certainly is much more westernised and refined than his last films, this may be due to time and even values which he himself has developed as a film maker throughout his time working as one.

In terms of ADHM’s’ storyline, its the narrative revolves around two best friends who grow extremely close, with one developing feelings of true love, only to be shut down by the other. What then follows is missed opportunities, new loves, self-discoveries, passion and even sadness. Without giving too much away, the film shows the complexities behind any close friendships, and even relationships. It’s definitely a film which is grounded by standout performances from its leads (Ranbir Kapoor & Anushka Sharma), to its supporting actors (Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Fawad Khan).

Overall I would say watch ADHM this Diwali, as it is certainly a film which showcases the labours of love and more. Its not only very melodramatic but its deeply sensitive and heartfelt too. Some highlights include a lot of cross referencing with old Bollywood filmy songs to KJo’s previous films, in terms of short music snippets. Whilst the dialogue of Aishwarya Rai Bachchans character is very poetic and mesmerising along with her look and acting prowess. However a drawback would be that her character wasn’t given enough time to bloom, as her complexities were hinted at but not drawn out which was a shame, but still, Mrs Bachchan carried herself in grace, poise and ethereal beauty.

Whilst Anushka and Ranbir Kapoor’s chemistry certainly pulled through within the film as it was very comfortable and natural. Thus making us as an audience watch attentively their evolvement as best friends, foes and so forth.

For ADHM’ music, KJ brought on composer Pritam whose known for his melodious hits. One song which really tugs at your heart strings in the film, has to be ‘Channa Mereya’. The song is not only beautifully articulated but its also very sensitive and emotive in lyrical content and music beats too.

Check out the full video song here:

To conclude, ADHM is a film where melodrama is grounded and extended in a narrative showcasing a tale of love between too friends. Alongside the films stunning cinematography and its set design its certainly extremely modern in terms of where its been filmed (i.e Paris, London etc.), and its content too. I would say ADHM is a much watch for those who love dramas and even romance. Also for those who’d love to see the star pairing of Aishwarya Rai  and Sharukh Khan reunite (even if it’s for a few minutes) once again on screen for a short while since the box office smash ‘Devdas‘(2002).

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Bibliography

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1. FoxStarHindi (2016) Ae Dil Hai Mushkil | trailer | Karan Johar | Aishwarya Rai Bachchan | Ranbir Kapoor | Anushka Sharma. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_PODraXg4E (Accessed: 28 October 2016).

2. Sony Music India (2016) Channa Mereya – Ae Dil Hai Mushkil | Karan Johar | Ranbir | Anushka | Aishwarya | Pritam | Arijit. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-diRlyLGzo (Accessed: 5 November 2016).

American Beauty (1999)- Short Film Review

Recently I watched the 5-time oscar winning romantic drama American Beauty starring Kevin Spacey and Annette Bening.

In short, the film revolves around a middle-aged man having a mid-life crisis who gets a ‘sexual awakening’ when his daughter brings around her best friend. Suddenly he feels motivated and defiant, almost like a new man. Making new choices, doing things for himself instead of pleasing others. However, is anyone really ‘normal’ in modern suburbia or is the American Dream too good to be true?

In terms of the narrative structure, I would say that the equilibrium is one which is not entirely satisfied or even disastrous, it’s one which is emotionless. Considering we see Kevin Spacey’s character Lester Burnham deal with a dull job and of course a very dull family environment. One thing which can be noticed is that Spacey’s character is very 2 Dimensional at the start of the film, as the audience do not get much from him which really emphasizes his current state of mind and of course emotion. It’s really later on in the film that his character truly evolves, which I’ll be touching upon later.

As far as stand out scenes go, American Beauty is one of those films which features a lot of voyeurism. Voyeurism can be described as the viewing of a sexually explicit act by another, this may range from one character staring at another undressing and so forth. Within the film, there is a scene involving two characters where a male character is looking at a female character undressing herself from across the road through a window. His actions are known as being a ‘peepingIt’sm’. Its really in this moment that alot of exaggeration is put on the camera angles and ofcourse the characters emotion(s). Thus giving the audience a sense of intrigue and mystery as to why one character is so enticed by another, without even talking or even meeting them beforehand.

Going back to Spaceys character, his evolvement is as follows:

• He slowly learns to appreciate life after a sudden fascination with his daughters best friend.
• He begins to feel more of a sex drive, increasing his emotions and attitude towards various activitys.
• He transitions from a helpless and lonely man (who is considered a loser), to one who is confident, in charge and victorious.

One of my favourite moments in the film has to be a particular scene with Spacey’s character and Bening’s (Spacey’s characters on screen wife). It’s at the start where they are having a squabble of sorts, with the dominant speaker becomes apparent. This slowly changes further along in the film when the dominant character becomings Spacey’s, who was once ‘tired’ and even ‘bored’ of even saying anything to his wife. It’s here that I felt as an audience member I really got to feel the emotion and even vulnerability behind both, seen towards the start of the film and even at the end.

In conclusion, I would say American Dream was a sheer delight, amongst its dark twists and innovative character arches. It’s one which really grabs you at the end, in leaving you with some kind of message. Without giving too much away, it almost lets you into the value of life and how important it is to really cherish it amongst the drab, social hierarchy and so forth, as life is short thus no one knows when it can end or even truly start.

See the official trailer here: [Paramount Movies, 2012]

My Rating: 8.5/10

Watch American Beauty for its modern and innovative cast. Get ready to witness a dysfunctional family like no other, who may end up teaching you the meaning of life and love along the way, in a very twisted fashion. Further see the film for its excellent cinematography, with each shot truly dissolved in meaning, color and hidden encoded messages.

 

Bibliography

1) Giphy. (no date) American Beauty 1999 Gif (official). Available at: https://media.giphy.com/media/2X6qDBMnq2hLG/giphy.gif (Accessed: 11 October 2016).

2) Paramount Movies (2012) American beauty – trailer. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ycmmJ6rxA8 (Accessed: 16 October 2016).

Bridget Jone’s Baby (2016)- A Short Film Review

Britains hapless romantic is back, alongside her Mr Darcy. But will certain events bring them together again, or will there be another Mr Right who may enter the scene at the same time? Will a bun in the oven complicate things even more, surely not right? What if you had ‘similar relations’ with two “Darcys”?

Oh Bridgit nothing is ever simple!

In the third instalment, we see Bridget in a whole new avatar. She’s chic, savvy, confident and funny. Not to mention, her new job is extremely elite, she’s  finally made it big (well a little). A singleton in her new job, Bridget may still  manage to gravitate towards an old flame, or will a new alliance change her mind?

My initial expectations of the film were quite low, as I had not seen the first two instalments. Luckily, after seeing the trailer a bit of background was offered to me.

Upon seeing the film, one is immediately drawn to the stellar cast (following the previous films), with the exemption of Hugh Grant not reprising his role. Alongside a Bridget Jones newbie Greys Anatomy’s Patrick Dempsey.

In short, the narrative follows a much older Bridget settling into her new life, and holding her own. She’s still her old self, just a little more glam and extra clumsy. Her hopes of a ‘normal straightforward’ life, seem to always fade, as she certainly attracts drama.

In conclusion, I would say watch the third instalment of one of Britains well loved romantic franchises. It’s sure to make you feel nostalgic as you’ll welcome Bridget back to your screens after such a long time. For me, Renee Zellweger really exuberates lots of personality, as she’s extremely relatable as a character. Which is probably why she has become a household name over the years for starring in ‘The Bridget Jones’ series.

Get ready to swoon, laugh,cry and jump for joy all at the same time. If you watch one british rom-com this year, makes sure its this one as Renee Zellwegers comeback, certainly will not disappoint. Not to mention you’ll get to see the still dashing Mr darcy appear on your screen (played by Britains smartest Colin Firth).

Welcome back Bridget!

My rating: 9/10

See the official trailer here:

Bibliography

1) primogif.com (no date) Bridget Jones GIF. Available at: http://media1.giphy.com/media/uJkEMJF0BzT0I/giphy.gif (Accessed: 20 September 2016).

2) Universal Pictures (2016) Bridget Jones’s baby – official trailer (HD). Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJsvmscPY9w (Accessed: 20 September 2016).

Ricki and The Flash (2016)- Film Review

Ricki and The Flash (Official Poster) [2]

A story of an aged rock star who gets the chance to reconnect with her family after a sudden event. Starring none other than Hollywoods own , the one the only Meryl Streep, ‘Ricki and The Flash’ turns an otherwise aged tale of dis-abandonment for the chasing of one’s dream, into a heartfelt, sensitive and touching (at times) comedy film.

See the official trailer here [1]:

Upon reviewing Meryl Streep’s character of an aged rock star who is still ‘hip’ in her own right. I’d say her character is quite unique in the way that she never stopped chasing her dreams, even if it meant leaving her family behind. What makes her character stand out is that she’s not afraid to keep going, strumming her way each day with small gigs and small/medium crowds. She’s a fighter when it comes to reaching for what she wants. However what’s very raw and earnest is her ability to know when her family needs her, even if she hasn’t been present for most of their lives. She’s a character which doesn’t want to let her estranged family down, even if she’s let them down so many times before. She’s one which is truthful, dignified and a bit crazy at times (but who isn’t!).

Ricki and The Flash also boasts some more stellar talent in the form of Kevin Kline (Ricki’s ex- husband) and Mamie Gummer (Ricki’s daughter in need). Both actors warm naturally to Streep’s character in a very dysfunctional, awkward yet comfortable way (as the storyline demands). Both act effortlessly in their respective character roles, giving off star energy to each scene, allowing us as the audience to be drawn into their situations, character mapping and emotions. Which for some actors, is quite hard as not many can gel into a scene so naturally as Mammie Gummer and Kevin Kline do. With the latter being a very experienced actor, on par with Streep herself.

Rating: 7.5/10

To conclude, Ricki and The Flash (directed by Jonathan Demme) is a light-hearted watch, which is heavy on drama and emotion. Get ready to face the music and feel all kinds of a family’s  love, in all its dysfunctional messy form. Let the films music touch your heart strings and be ready to feel surprised by Meryl Streep’s ability to gel into a rockstar avatar like never before.

With an outstanding performance by Meryl Streep, Ricki and The Flash surely draws you in a little too slowly, but it definitely is worth it! As the drama picks up along side lots of emotion fairly soon, as it’s needed the most.

Overall Ricki and The Flash is extremely sensitive and funny, with lots of drama and star power.

Bibliography

[1] FilmIsNow Movie Trailers (2015) Ricki and the flash official trailer (2015) – Meryl Streep movie HD. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OeU3-aB0Mog&spfreload=10 (Accessed: 21 August 2016).

[2] Ricki and The Flash (Official Poster)-TriStar Pictures (no date) Available at: https://in.bookmyshow.com/entertainment/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Ricki-and-the-Flas.jpg (Accessed: 21 August 2016).

The rise of ‘The Female Heroine’- Short Essay

 

Mrs Incredible Gif [1]

For many years in film, we have been taken in by the heroes courage, their fearlessness, and admiration. Whether that’s them saving someone in need, a dire state, a ruined empire or giving back to the poor. They have always been seen as a very symbolic figure in the history of film. However, the definition of who a Hero truly is has been developed and added to over the years.

First off, the definition of a ‘Hero’ can be stated as the following: “A person who is admired for having done something very brave or having achieved something great”.-Cambridge Dictionary[3]

Recently I watched the reboot of ‘Ghostbusters’ starring an all-female cast for the fist time! Having initial scepticism beforehand (due to polarising negative reviews towards the Ghostbusters Trailer (views)[6], I watched the film not expecting too much. After watching it completely, I was thoroughly impressed and proud of the brave move by Paul Feig (the director) in constructing  a female cast for the reboot of a predominantly male cult classic. This really made me think as to why many did not like the reboot, thus dawning on me for a while. Until I realised how far ‘The Female Heroine’ has come along in recent years. Considering that many female characters are now featured as ‘the heroes’ rather than the stereotypical damsel in distress. Although the film industry still has a long way to come, ‘The Female Hero’ is certainly becoming a norm, with ‘Ghostbusters’ being just one example of how females can easily do what males do, dare I say even better! Gone are the days where females wait to be rescued, as now it seems they are rescuing themselves. Which is not only refreshing but also inspiring, as it high time that the true term of ‘a female boss’ can be appreciated wholly.

Another example of ‘The Female Hero’ or in its more common term ‘The Female Heroine’ includes the latest Superhero film ‘Wonder Woman’ (yet to be released) chronicling the life of Wonder Woman from a young girl to an adult combatting war and evil. For me, the character of DC’s Wonder Woman transcends the female hero to new heights. Considering that the hero themselves stand for hope, courage amongst many other attributes. I would say relating the concept of the ‘female hero’ to film, that this certainly sets out a new roll out, of the importance of this notion that anything males can do, females can do the same. Considering that in many years of film, we have conditioned ourselves in seeing solid action films (Die Hard Series & Mission Impossible) focusing on the ‘male hero’ in its true heterosexual form. Where they are seen to be clever, strong, good looking and brave, making sure to save the damsel in distress and defeating the bad guys.

I would say however that this ‘hero mentality’ doesn’t really apply to female heroine films. As its more about what they represent and how their involvement inspires many young girls to have that ‘I can..’ attitude in stepping out of their comfort zone and breaking barriers down (whether that’s in female-centric sports such as Rugby etc.)

To conclude, I would say that ‘female heroes’ are ever evolving more so now than ever. Whether that means receiving more prominence as the ‘saviour’ or even gaining more of a ‘fearless’ status rather than one which requires them standing on the sidelines waiting to be saved.

The example of successful ‘female heroes’ shown on the silver screen would have to include the following: Ghostbusters (2016), The Hunger Games(2012-15) and Wonder Woman (trailer). The Edge of Tommorow(2014) can also be added to this list, however, it’s important to insert that although there is a female hero, she is seen more as a ‘wise helper’ than a fully assembled hero, as its Tom Cruises character which takes centre stage. Thus this is just one example that females in films still have a long way to climb, in making their mark as heroes. Although there have been many successful films featuring female hero leads, most successfully: ‘The Hunger Games’ (film adaptation) series. To end, next time you see a hero orientated film which features a strong heterosexual male, just think to yoursleves what that film would be like with a female hero and how whats shown on screen would change or even stay the same. In terms of how you yourselves percieve females to act and how their attributes reflect on the story itself, just as a male hero is seen to be ‘ruthless’ and ‘victorious’.

Further Reading

‘The Female Yoda’[2]

The Rise of ‘DC’s Wonder Woman’[4]

Katniss Everdeen: A great female role model[5]

Bibliography

[1] Tumblr and Profeminist (user) (2014) Mrs. Incredible gif. Available at: https://www.tumblr.com/search/mrs.%20incredible%20gif (Accessed: 7 August 2016).

[2] Bartyzel, M. (2014) Girls on film: Hollywood keeps stranding women at the edge of tomorrow. Available at: http://theweek.com/articles/446189/girls-film-hollywood-keeps-stranding-women-edge-tomorrow (Accessed: 7 August 2016).

[3] Cambridge Dictionary (2016) Heroine meaning in the Cambridge English dictionary. Available at: http://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/heroine (Accessed: 6 August 2016).

[4] Cannata-Bowman, N. and nick-bowman (2016) Why DC’s ‘wonder woman’ movie is so important. Available at: http://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/why-dcs-wonder-woman-movie-is-so-important.html/?a=viewall (Accessed: 7 August 2016).

[5] Ellis, S. (2014) Why the hunger games’ killer Katniss is a great female role model. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2014/aug/12/why-hunger-games-killer-katniss-is-a-great-female-role-model (Accessed: 7 August 2016).

[6] Shoard, C. (2016) Ghostbusters trailer is most disliked in YouTube history. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2016/may/02/ghostbusters-trailer-most-disliked-in-youtube-history (Accessed: 7 August 2016).