This week we said goodbye to the summer

Hi everyone, bit of a belated blog I'm afraid!
Despite the day of the week, I present to you my Monday Movie Mash Up. This aired last Monday 29th August between 10 and 11am. If you ever want to tune in to the live version of this blog, you'll find us on Radio 101.4 OnFM.
As I'm running late already, I'd better crack on...

Upcoming Releases

This Friday, vampires return to the big screen in this recent 80's revamp. Colin Farrell grows some fangs as he intimidates his neighbour, Anton Yelchin. David Tenant also stars.

Also out on Friday, Apollo 18 reveals unseen footage from the last US space mission to the moon. Merging Sci-fi and horror, this movie shows us why we haven't returned to the lunar surface.

If a sedate chick flick is more your style, join Emma Roberts in 'The Art of Getting By.' This produced by the same people who were behind '[500] Days of Summer' and 'Juno', therefore indie kids are sure to like this one.

This British flick is set in the early 90s rave scene, where we follow two Mancunian lads who want to become underground organisers themselves. 'Skins' star Jack O'Connell leads.

This dark, violent thriller opens on Friday. It tells the story of an ex-army contract killer as he embarks upon his most dangerous contract yet...








Recent Review
So last week I managed to pop along to the cinema myself where I was treated to the Spanish speaking film 'The Skin I Live in', directed by Pedro Almodovar. With the images of the posters haunting me for weeks, I was anxious to catch the film as soon as it opened. Luckily my excitement wasn't misspent, Almodovar's most recent project proves to be as dark and mysterious as its trailer suggests.

Starring Antonio Banderas and Elena Anaya, 'The Skin I Live In' jumps backwards and forwards in time, constantly requiring its audience to reassess and adjust their opinions of the characters. Banderas is a plastic surgeon with a tragic past, however in the present he is fixated upon the project of creating a synthetic skin that will withstand any level of damage. Anaya is his model, as even in high definition her beauty is quite breathtaking.

Before seeing the film, I had heard that it boasted an almighty twist and trust me, you won't be disappointed. For this reason, I won't discuss the plot too closely as I wouldn't want to give it away at all. Instead I'll give you a taste of the style of the film in the hope that it might tempt you to see it.

The aesthetic of the film is very clean, modern and beautiful. Despite the film focusing on the human form through the eyes of a plastic surgeon, I wouldn't say that beauty is the most central theme. The film contains very strong, memorable images which I think is particularly important when you're watching a foreign language film. On this point, please don't let the subtitles put you off watching this film. The dialogue isn't lengthy and at no point do you feel that you're missing out on the action due to reading.

The soundtrack is perfect in terms of suiting the the style and enhancing the atmosphere, making sure that the piece is intriguing and gripping throughout. In my opinion, there were no superfluous scenes; every moment drove the plot in some way and even interactions that were at first seemingly meaningless, became extremely relevant during future moments. When discussing it with my friend who watched the film with me, we were shocked that it wasn't a certificate 18 as opposed to 15, as the material and themes explored are relatively disturbing and adult. However, it isn't too graphic, I would say that unnerving is a more accurate description.

Overall, this movie is an exciting alternative to the other Hollywood, action blockbusters currently showing. Banderas has produced a stand out performance whilst his supporting cast are simply superb.

Retro Review

As the summer holidays draw to a close and the trips back to school and college loom near, the choice for retro review of the week was a no-brainer; one of the most legendary back to school movies is of course, Grease. So if you fell in love this summer, join Sandy and Danny as they desperately cling on to the bond they formed beach-side.

Overview

Released: 14th September 1978
Director: Randal Kleiser
Stars: John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John

In a nutshell...
Even if you haven't seen the film, you will undoubtedly be familiar with the soundtrack. For those who aren't sure, here's the general gist. The kids of Rydell High are heading back to school and are still on a high after the summer vacation. The romance between Danny Zuko [Travolta] and Sandy Olssen [Olivia Newton-John] sadly drew to an end along with the summer sun, however as Sandy is relocated to Danny's high school, will their love endure? As Sandy desperately tries to fit in with Danny's impenetrable clique, will Danny drop his cool-boy exterior and give in to his first love?

Some things you might not know

- The Fonze from Happy Days [Henry Winkler] was approached for the role of Danny Zuko however he turned the opportunity down as he didn't want to become type cast.

- All of the teenage cast were in their 20s: John Travolta - 23, Olivia Newton-John - 28, Stockard Channing - 33.

- Olivia Newton-John had to be sewn into her trousers for the final scene as a zipper had broken before filming.

- The scene in Frenchy's bedroom involved a sung line about Elvis. It just so happens that the day that this was filmed was actually the day that Elvis was found dead in his home.
- Stockard Channing's [Rizzo] hickeys were allegedly real as Jeff Conaway [Kenickie] insisted upon administering them himself.
- The song 'Hopelessly Devoted to You' almost didn't make it into the movie. Kleiser felt that Sandy needed a big ballad in the film, so the song was shot post production. Lucky they did as this song was nominated for the Oscar for Best Original Song.
- Apparently Jeff Conaway was required to walk with a slight stoop to give the impression that he was considerably shorter than Travolta. There was only 1/2 and inch between them as Travolta was taller at 6'2" whilst Conaway measured up at 6'1.5"

- Conaway was married to Olivia Newton-John's sister Rona for 5 years following the filming of Grease.

Alternative Choice 

So last week I recommended the Prince Charles Cinema for a quote-along version of 'The Big Lebowski'. Do keep checking up on the PCC if you missed this particular event, they always have lively programs with something new happening every month.

Moving on this week, I bring to you the London International Animation Festival. 

It started last Friday 26th August and finished this Sunday, so head along to the Barbican if you are an animation enthusiast or curious about cartoons. 

This is the 8th animation festival however it is the first time that the Barbican is hosting the event. this is the largest festival of its kind in the UK and it will be screening animated films from every corner of the globe. In fact, many of the showings are British premiere of the artists' work.

Over 250 films will be screened over the week or so, and along with film screenings it is possible to attend Q&A sessions as well as seminar and the chance to meet special guests.

After looking through the program of events, marked highlights include the 15minute short film 'Lipsett Diaries: The incredible story of Theodore Ushev and Arthur Lipsett'. This is a retrospective look at the tragic genius that was Arthur Lipsett, the Oscar nominated director as well as various other shorts from Ushev's portfolio. A Q&A follows. This screening is on Thursday 1st September.

If you missed out on your favourite elements of the week, chances are you will be able to catch up with them on Sunday 4th September as Best of the Festival starts at 4pm. This event is a must see both for people who have missed out as well as avid followers of the week's events. It includes an award ceremony as well as viewings of the best of the best. This will be your last chance to see it, so book ahead here to avoid disappointment.

If you haven't experience the Barbican film experience before, I would highly recommend it. Check out their website for information about various deals and discounts regarding tickets. Especially look out for the family film club along with the 16-25s Freeb offer.

Movie News

Now for this week's rundown of movie gossip and the latest news. As ever, I feel bound to say that although my sources appear reliable, take all gossip with a pinch of salt...

Brad Pitt reportedly rescued an extra from injury whilst on the set for his new zombie movie 'World War Z'. Filming in Glasgow, the extra fell to the floor during the crowd scene and Pitt pulled her to standing before she could be trampled. It appears he's an action hero in real life too!

Martin Scorcese will reunite with 'The Departed' writer William Monahan in his upcoming film 'The Gambler'. Leonardo DiCaprio (a Scorcese favourite) is also rumoured to be interested in the project.

The New York City Mayor's office revoked filming permits last weekend, affecting actors such as Kirsten Dunst and Isla Fisher. This is in response to the imminent winds of Hurricane Irene.

Steve Coogan is set to appear in a student film with a budget of £1000. Seventeen year old Liam Hooper contacted Coogan's PA and was shocked when he found out that Coogan has confirmed his involvement. 

Dan Ackyroyd has implied that Ghostbusters 3 will happen whether Bill Murray is on board or not. He is reportedly excited about the script and hopes that Murray will join them.

Universal are planning an 'Invisible Man' remake according to David Goyer (writer behind Dark Knight and the forthcoming Man of Steel). He has visions for the project that will have a much more Guy Ritchie feel with the story taking a deeper look at the mythology behind H.G.Wells' character.

Natalie Portman as recently turned down the lead role in 'Adaline'. This has been her first post-pregnancy job offer. We hope she returns to the big screen soon.

Columbia Pictures are remaking the 90s thriller 'Flatliners' that originally starred Kiefer Sutherland, Kevin Bacon and Julia Roberts. The writer behind 'Source Code', Ben Ripley, will be adapting the original. With numerous reboots flooding our screens, let's hope this is a memorable one.

So that's all about I had time for on Monday. 

Tune in next week for much of the same and please post comments with your own thoughts on the cinema's latest releases, I'd love to here it!

Speak to you soon!

Sophie x

This week it all got a bit scary

Happy Monday movie-goers!
This week I was joined by my guest Malcolm, as we summarised the upcoming releases soon to hit our screens. Along with looking at last week's releases and the latest DVD and Blu-rays available to purchase, the movie mash up includes our regular features such as the Retro Review as well as our alternative choice for viewing films in the capital.
Right, so less of the introductions and let's get going...

New Releases

If, like me, you've read the bestseller by David Nicholls, then you will surely be anticipating this week's release of the book adaptation of 'One Day'. Will Anne Hathaway rise to the challenge of recreating our beloved Emma Morley? I hope so.

Out this Wednesday, Conan the Barbarian is set to be an action epic as we follow him on his voyage of vengeance to defend his nation of Hyboria. Watch out for some supernatural forces and intimidating monsters.

The fifth installment in the Final Destination franchise sees us follow a familiar format. Horror movie buffs should watch out for a cameo by Tony Todd, aka The Candyman. This enters movie theatres next Friday.

Personally I am very excited for this new release. Antonio Banderas takes on the role of plastic surgeon as he sets about making an ultra durable synthetic skin. A must see for those who enjoy movies that take sinister twists and turns.







Recently Released
Last week saw the opening of 'Cowboys & Aliens' as well as black comedy 'The Guard'. However, the talk of the town seemed to be 'The Inbetweeners Movie', a continuation of the hit Channel 4 TV series. This movie marks the end of the series, therefore it is with a heavy heart that we say farewell to our favourite four sixth form friends. With university on the horizon, the four chaps head out on a lads holiday where the quest is, as ever, to impress the ladies and have some fun. Although I haven't seen the film yet myself, I hope to see it as soon as possible! Murmurs through the grapevine suggest that the film doesn't disappoint, especially if you are a fan of the series.

Retro Review
This year we have been inundated with various book to film adaptions; 'Never Let Me Go', 'Submarine', 'Harry Potter', 'One Day' and later this year 'The Help'. In light of this, I felt that this week's retro look back in to the history of cinematic classics should venture down the path of book adaptations. Where better place to start than with Stephen King - the sultan of sinister? From his novels to his short stories, Stephen King has provided the inspiration for many movie classics, such as;

Carrie [1976]

Stand By Me [1986]

It [1990]

Misery [1990]

The Shawshank Redemption [1994]

The Green Mile [1999]

Secret Window [2004]

1408 [2007]

However today, we decided to chat about Stanley Kubrick's take on King's suspense masterpiece 'The Shining' starring Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall.
So for those who aren't familiar with this terrifying adaptation, here's a brief synopsis.

The Torrance family have been employed to maintain an isolated mountain-top hotel over the winter. However the hotels contains an evil presence that toys with the minds of its tenants. It plays on the weaknesses of ex-alcoholic father Jack whilst tormenting his telepathic son Danny, to devastating consequence.

The tension in this movie doesn't cease from start to finish, as the opening title sequence rolls to the sounds of Bela Bartok, the viewer knows they are in for a stressful couple of hours. Set within the confines of the beautiful Overlook hotel, the minimal cast are exceptional as they unreservedly convey their fear and despair. The young Danny Lloyd [Danny Torrance] is perfect as the sinister and introverted child whilst Shelley Duvall [Wendy Torrance] ranges from fearful to fierce as she takes on the role of protective mother. However, the star performance should be undoubtedly handed to Jack Nicholson [Jack Torrance] as he smiles and sneers his way through what could arguably called one of the most psychotic characters in cinematic history. I think what sets this film aside from its other horror counterparts is the fact that it doesn't ignore the subtleties of the genre, as the viewing experience is as spine tingling as it is down right terrifying.

Some things you might not know...

- During the making of the film, Kubrick has been rumoured to have rung Stephen King at 3am in the morning to ask him questions such as 'do you believe in God?'

- Also considered for the role of Jack Torrance were Robert DeNiro and Robin Williams.

- The iconic line "Here's Johnny" was actually an ad-lib on behalf of Nicholson who was actually mimicking the talk show host Johnny Carlson as he would introduce his show in this fashion.

- To get his actors in the mood, Kubrick would apparently encourage his actors to watch Eraserhead, Rosemary's Baby and The Exorcist.

- Due to the fact that Danny Lloyd was such a young actor at the time of filming, the nature of the film was not revealed to him until seven years later when her was 13. Up until then the thought the film was a drama and it wasn't until he was 17 years old that he was allowed to watch a fully uncut version.

- According to Shelley Duvall, during the scene in which Jack wields an axe at the bathroom door, the props department went through 60 doors.

- The film contains a scene in which Wendy Torrance scales the steps of the Overlook with a knife. Kubrick apparently filmed this sequence 35 times, almost the equivalent of running up the Empire State Building.

Alternative Choice

If you got along to last week's recommendation, Floating Cinema's screening of the Fantastic Mr Fox  in fancy dress, I hope you had a wonderful time. I have seen some of the pictures and the fox costumes truly are quite fantastic!

Moving on to this week's choice. Despite the numerous open-air screenings on offer, I am taking you back into an actual cinema, however don't think for one moment that this makes the experience any less alternative...

This week I offer up to you a screening of 'The Big Lebowski' at the Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square. However this is a showing with a difference, as it gives its audience a chance to 'quote-along'. You may have heard of the various sing-along screenings on offer throughout the UK such as The Sound of Music, but in this case you can don your dressing gown and quote-along freely throughout the film.

Situated in Leicester Square for the past 20 years or so, the Prince Charles Cinema (or PCC) is known for its reasonable ticket prices and eclectic mix of screenings. They host cults festivals, retro double bills as well as some select mainstream blockbusters for a snip of the price of most central London cinemas. You can book your tickets online, over the phone or in person and there are varying rates for members and non-members. Membership fees range from a reasonable £16 for a year whilst £50 will earn you lifelong membership. Check out their website for further information about ticket prices and other events they have on offer.

Tickets for this particular event are £10 (£6 if you're a member). White Russians are on sale from around 7pm whilst the doors open at 8:30pm. Viewers are encouraged to arrive in fancy dress and let's just say don't forget your bowling shoes as there are some competitions on offer in that department too!

Starring Jeff Bridges and John Goodman, the Coen Brothers' 'Big Lebowski' tells the tale of "The Dude" Lebowski [Bridges], a regular guy who gets mistaken for a millionaire of the same name. He agrees to take on one of his counterpart's jobs thus developing into a web of deception and danger. Very much a must-see for any Coen Brothers fanatic. 

I think there is joy to be found for first time viewers of this film along with the die-hard followers, as the costumed quote-along may bring an added sense of camaraderie to the screening.

Movie News
The recent D23 (Disney 23) Expo has shed light on various upcoming Disney projects. Interestingly director Sam Raimi has previewed elements of the new Wizard of Oz prequel 'Oz the Great and Power'. It seems that some sections will be in colour whilst others will appear in Black and White, hailing back to the 1939 original. James Franco is taking the lead as Oz himself.

Pixar have announced a new Dinosaur project that is set to be released in 2013. It is currently untitled however the premise depicts a scenario in which the dinosaurs were not wiped by an asteroid but in fact remain, roaming upon the Earth.

Pixar also previews their upcoming film 'Monster's University', a prequel to 'Monster's Inc.' where we find slimmer and younger versions Mike and Sulley, aged 18, learning to scare at college.

Harrison Ford will apparently not be taking part in the Blade Runner remake according to Alcon Entertainment representative Andrew Kosove. They will be starting with a completely fresh cast.

 The 'Wild Bunch' is currently being considered for a reboot, with Tony Scott taking on direction whilst the screenwriter behind 'Mystic River' and 'LA Confidential' will also be involved. Tony Scott will also be remaking a revamped version of his 1986 cult classic 'Top Gun' however there are rumours that it will be taking part in a much more contemporary setting. Let's hope it doesn't take itself too seriously.

 Bruce Willis has allegedly been signed up for the sequel to G.I. Joe (the rather imaginatively entitled) G.I. Joe 2. Here we will see Willis as the very first Joe. Its nice to see that Willis is still able to flex his muscles confidently within the action genre.

Lastly, Abigail Breslin will be taking on a more gritty role in her upcoming film 'The Class Project'. For various reasons her character decides, with the help of her sister, to kill her mum. Quite a hop, skip and a jump away from the fluffier roles of her past such as 'Little Miss Sunshine' and 'Definitely Maybe'. Perhaps her stint in 'Zombieland' gave her a taste for murder?

 

So that's all we had time for on today's show.
I'd like to say a big thank you to my guest Malcolm, and to those who tuned in. I'll be back next week with more news and cinema viewing options throughout the capital.
Speak to you soon!
Sophie x

This week, we mainly spoke about monkeys...

Welcome to the Monday Movie Mash Up blog.
Here I hope to provide a written summary of all the topics covered in my Monday morning show that can be heard on Radio 101.4 OnFM. This week I was delighted to welcome my first guest on the show, actress Alice Milner.
Although this is our first official blog, today marks the show's third week anniversary! Already I feel like I live at the cinema and IMDB is soon becoming my homepage. However, this aside, let's push on and find out what's coming out this week...

New Releases

Set in the Wild Wild West during 1873, a space ship lands in Arizona.
As it becomes apparent that they don't have friendly intentions, only the cowboy locals can stop them.
With the gents who play Indiana Jones and James Bond in the same film, what more could you ask for?

We join the lads from the hit Channel 4 series during their lads holiday abroad.
The friends Will, Simon, Jay and Neil head somewhere hot in pursuit of women and a good time. As usual with The Inbetweeners, things don't run as smoothly as anticipated.
Hopefully I will be getting along to the red carpet of the Leicester Square premiere tomorrow night...

Brendan Gleeson and Don Cheadle star in this cop-based comedy with Gleeson taking on the role of an unorthadox policeman against Cheadle's uptight FBI agent.
These two contrasting characters must learn to work together as they set out to rumble an international drug smuggling outfit. Funny viewing I'm sure.

We join Jessica Alba in the next installment of the Spy Kids franchise.

Although I've only seen the first film, I'm sure there's joy to be found for fans of the prior sequels.






Recent Review of the Week

 

Last week I managed to get along to the cinema myself and see the much anticipated 'Devil's Double' starring Dominic Cooper [History Boys, Mamma Mia]. Based on a true story, this film depicts the tale of Latif Yahia, an Iraqi Lieutenant who has been called upon by his old school mate Uday Hussein for a favour.
The request in question is that Latif become Uday Hussein's body double, and as the story unfolds it is clear that to decline Saddam Hussein's son, often proves to be a dangerous move. Latif is exposed to the decadent and frenzied world of the Hussein family where he is confronted by moral dilemmas at every turn.

Cooper is surprisingly strong in both roles, as he manages to find a vulnerable side to the sadistic and menacing character of Uday. However I felt that the strength of the story was somewhat negated at times by perhaps a slightly glamorous take on some incidents. Additionally, the vague hint of a love interest distracted from the intrigue to be found within the central plot.

Overall this film will get you talking. You'll be shocked at the situation in itself and you'll be questioning just how much of it is really true.

Retro Review of the Week

Each week I include a feature whereby Movie Mash Up takes a look back at a cinematic classic. I try and make the chosen film relevant to something current in the movie listings. Therefore with this in mind, I have chosen King Kong (the 1933 version).

You may well have seen the recently released 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes' or indeed the feature length documentary 'Project Nim'. Whether the fact that these primate pictures have been released at the same time is coincidence or not, it is apparent that filmmakers have always had a fascination with the parallels between man and ape.

Quick Look 

Director: Merian C. Cooper & Ernest B. Schoedsack

Cast: Fay Wray [Ann Darrow] Robert Armstrong [Carl Denham] Bruce Cabot [John Driscoll]

Released: 7th April 1933

Whilst chatting about the 1933 classic it is impossible not appreciate just how groundbreaking the film must have been upon its initial release. Looking back, the special effects indeed seem laughable. With 18 inch tall plastic models replacing the usual CGI effects that the 21st century audience are used to, I think that watching original movies such as these is important for contemporary viewers so we realise just how far we've come! With films such as 'Avatar' hitting the screens, it is sometimes easy to sit back and take for granted the wizadry that goes in to creating such spectacular effects. 

There is something quite comforting about King Kong, as it is imagery we're more than used to. The iconic fight between the T-Rex and Kong coupled with the moment where the 50 foot ape hangs off the Empire State Building are both scenes that will forever be a part of Hollywood history. Fay Wray is the damsel in distress with a difference, as the leading lady forms a tender friendship with the beast. A concept that had been echoed in many films since.

Some things you might not know

- King Kong's roar was a combination of a Tiger's and a Lion's but played backwards

- Upon its release, it was the highest grossing film in its opening weekend at $90,000

- The old Arabian proverb that appears at the beginning of the film was actually written by Merian C. Cooper himself:

"And lo, 

the beast looked upon the face of beauty.

And it stayed its hand from killing.

And from that day,

it was as one dead"

Alternative Choice of the Week

At this point in the show, I like to highlight something quirky or alternative to do in London regarding cinema or film. With summer upon us, Londoners are spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor screenings. This week I have chosen the Floating Cinema.

This cinematic experience takes the audience aboard a narrow boat in the canals of East London. With an eclectic programme of screenings, Floating Cinema chugs serenely around the borough of Newham, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest and Hackney. Free canal-side viewings are also featured within the listings for those without their sea legs.

Specifically I recommend to you this week their screening of 'Fantastic Mr Fox' starring George Clooney and Meryl Streep. However this is a viewing with a difference, as audience members are encouraged to join the Floating Cinema in full fancy dress get-up. So if you're feeling foxy, head down to: 

Three Mills - River Lee Navigation - Three Mills Lane - Bow

on Friday 19th August at 8pm

Click here to check out the company's website for further details of how the project originated as well as location information and screening times.

This project illustrates that increasingly bizarre and original means of viewing cinema are becoming accessible to the public. With Secret Cinema, Nomad Cinema and Future Cinema leading the way in promenade theatre/cinema spectaculars, I spoke to actress Alice Milner about her views on the blurring of boundaries between cinema and theatre.

"I think its a really nice way to appreciate the classics. Instead of just remaking them with the latest CGI...  It is still taking the classic film and doing something new with it but in a way that doesn't disregard the old one - actually making it the focal point"

Movie News

As this is a current movie show, it would be impossible to escape without a bit of showbiz gossip and salacious speculation. Possibly some of the following is just rumour... believe what you will.

Production of the new Disney adaptation of the Lone Ranger has ground to a halt over production costs. Disney have allegedly said that they are still keen to push ahead with the project in the future; it is set to star Johnny Depp.

Rumour has it that Mike Myers will be pulling on his flares once more in the fourth edition of Austin Powers. He's been relatively quite since we last saw him in Shrek and the Love Guru... is he swinging on to the screens with a comeback?

 Eminem's boxing movie 'Southpaw' has apparently been axed by Dreamworks.

Hugh Grant is currently undecided as to whether he will be joining the cast of Bridget Jones' Diary once more, Working Title are currently planning a sequel. Renee Zellweger has already signed up however apparently she isn't planning to physically gain weight this time but is more in favour of the fat suit.

Lionsgate announced last week that they will be remaking Dirty Dancing with director Kenny Ortega (the man behind High School Musical) taking on the challenge. Ryan Gosling will be confronting the iconic role of Swayze's Johnny Castle... let's hope he does it justice.

Lastly, next year it may well be possible that Cheryl Cole will be stunning us on the big screen. She has allegedly been signed up for the movie 'What to expect when you're expecting' alongside Cameron Diaz and Jennifer Lopez. Will Cole be following the pop star footsteps of Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake and Rihanna as they all appear on our cinema screens this year?

So there you go. 

One big old blog for an hour long show. 

If you're based in West London and you do fancy giving the show a listen, tune in to Radio 101.4 OnFM around 10am on a Monday. 

Speak to you soon!

Sophie x