Monster's Ball

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After a family tragedy, a racist prison guard re-examines his attitude while falling in love with the African American wife of the last prisoner he executed.

Wow!
Such a powerful movie! Absolutely loved it. Didn't expect so much power and content to be in such a simple film. I truly recommend people watch it, it does have quite a lot of sexual content in it, but at the end of the day it's how mature you are about it. Halle Berry (Leticia Musgrove) was expectional! Totally deserved her oscar. I loved the plot, it's extremely emotional and depressing but it was realistic and that's what made this film so deep and fulfilling. This is the first time watching this movie and I must say I would love to watch it again, It's probably not everyone's cup of tea but I enjoyed it. Billy Bob Thornton 's performance as Hank Grotowski was immense, reserved and patient. He was the gentleman that Leticia needed and to be honest despite the age difference I think they were perfect for each other. The plot is very intense, I didn't know who Heath Ledger played until the film was over (it took me a while). I was very pleased with the film overall despite the intense plot. 


What audience would you recommend this to?
16 and over

Rating
✯✯✯✯✯ (First 5 star rating) !!!

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An Education

A coming-of-age story about a teenage girl in 1960s suburban London, and how her life changes with the arrival of a playboy nearly twice her age.

Hmmm... a very interesting film. I will honestly say I'm still a bit confused. This film is set in the 1960's so it's a bit different to how younger women were like back then, you were either married or well educated. I found this movie confusing, I tried to understand her relationship with the older man but couldn't get my finger around it. I seriously thought he was a creep, and was waiting for something to happen. I thought it was just her age/maturity that got the better of her, but in the end it was him. *Here's me cutting the review short *: You meet new people, you go new places, you discover new things about yourself and realize it's not what you want, you've made a mistake and if your lucky enough you get a second chance. My overall experience with this film was challenging, trying to understand what society was like back in the 60's and trying to connect to the characters. Carey Mulligan's character 
Jenny, she seems bored, confused and at times certain about what she wants in life... just like me. 

What audience would you recommend this to?
Mature 


Rating:
✯✯✯/5

Something New

Kenya McQueen, an accountant finds love in the most unexpected place when she agrees to go on a blind date with Brian Kelly, a sexy and free-spirited landscaper.

Ahhhhh!!! I loved this movie sooo much! Bold, sexy, intelligent, unpredictable, predictable, fresh, funny! I could go on! To anyone reading this go ahead and watch it, it might not be your cup of tea but I promise it'll be worth your time. You could say this movie is a romantic comedy but it also introduces serious topics such as societal judgement, standards and a bit of racism (if that makes sense). The chemistry in this film between Simon Baker and Sanaa Lathan is so lovely, you can feel the connection from the beginning. The thing I love about this movie is the vivid topic visible to viewers when watching this movie, Interracial love! This movie definitely teaches audiences the importance that loving someone isn't about their skin colour or looks but about the connection, that unexplainable connection between two people. The plot is simple and very effective, I found myself smiling/laughing so much when watching this film, I'm positive this movie made my entire day! I hope it does the same for you because I absolutely loved it!

*Remember! Not all great films need long reviews*


What audience would you recommend this to?
Mature 


Rating✯✯✯✯/5

Place Beyond The Pines

A motorcycle stunt rider turns to robbing banks as a way to provide for his lover and their newborn child, a decision that puts him on a collision course with an ambitious rookie cop navigating a department ruled by a corrupt detective.

Yeah so what... I watched this movie illegally. I couldn't help it, besides... it's R18 (which I don't see the point of). Nothing in this movie was R18 to be honest, bit of swearing but nothing sexual (surprisingly). I was expecting there to be more intimacy between Ryan Gosling who plays Luke and Eva Mendes who portrays Romina. I guess not all movies need to make statements of affection through a few rowdy sex scenes (well done Kiri, you learn something new everyday). The plot is not what I expected,  I thought something completely different from when I saw the trailer, this movie proved me wrong. The time and how events were stretched out across the movie really wowed me, the whole time I thought it was going to be about Luke, Romina and Bradley Cooper who plays Avery the rookie cop. But nooooo it's way different! I love Ryan's choice of characters he chooses to portray in his films, he practically beats the opinions of those who take him as the good looking, blond hair and blue eyed guy who likes to keep it safe. He pushes the boundaries and makes his performance empowering and memorable. Eva did a lovely job of showing her tits off in this film, but not in the way people think she intended to do. I mean in a way of empowering that she is a woman and she is who she is (while not giving a fuck). Her character was very realistic, she did a good job preparing herself for the role (great respect). I'm glad she chose to do this role, personally it showed me how this beauty from Miami was mistaken for her looks and not noticed for her emotional integrity and ability. Overall I'm very pleased to see such a bitter-sweet plot portrayed by people  who like to push the boundaries. I was upset that a specific character wasn't on for the rest of the movie, but I'm not going to ruin it for you or... is it too late? 

What audience would you recommend this to?
16 and over

Rating
✯✯✯and a half stars

Time Traveler's Wife

The Time Traveler's Wife is about a man named Henry who since the death of his mother in a car crash as a little boy started time travelling. Henry can't help but time travel, most times it happens when he's in the middle of something. Henry Time Travels across different time periods of his life, reliving events mainly with his future wife (Claire).

I found this movie really interesting. I loved a lot of things about the film such as the different locations, the characters and the plot. Actually, straight after I finished watching it I was in a different surrounding. It felt like I was in America in these beautiful locations they were in. I love how movies do that to me! The plot was clever, I get that Henry can't stop time travelling but there are moments in the film where I'm just like "whaaat?". Rachel McAdams did a lovely job in this film, I've seen her in a lot of romance genre films and she does a perfect job e-v-e-r-y-time! I don't think she gets noticed enough for it. Eric Bana (very handsome by the way) also did a very nice performance. I knew he was Australian because his American accent was very strong in the film. I notice a lot of non American actor/actresses tend to over emphasise the American accent... (anyway moving on). The chemistry in this film was lovely, there were moments in this film where you feel a bit of tears in your eyes but they manage not to fall out, that was towards the end. It's sucks how he time travels in really important moments. I would hate if this kind of thing actually existed, thank god it doesn't. This movie is the kind where you just want to cuddle up in a blanket and drink a cup of hot chocolate while you wish the romance they have in the movie actually happened to you. Sadly there's only so much movies can do, but this movie does the job! I loved watching every minute of it and if you haven't watched it then WATCH IT. This movie teaches you about the importance of patience, time and love. 

What audience would you recommend this to?
Family movie

Ratings out of 5 stars:
✯✯✯✯✯

Rachel McAdams

Eric Bana

Rust and Bone

Put in charge of his young son, Alain leaves Belgium for Antibes to live with his sister and her husband as a family. Alain's bond with Stephanie, a killer whale trainer, grows deeper after Stephanie suffers a horrible accident.

Suffering and compassion. Marion Cotillard plays Stephanie a killer whale trainer. Marion delivers another outstanding performance in this film. Here I am sitting wondering to myself why she didn't get nominated for an Oscar or supporting actress (I will never know why).Matthias Schoenaerts plays Alain, a father and a ex-boxer also performs a heart-wrenching job in this film. I love the chemistry between these two characters, it's quite confusing, they're always on and off and it's like does he care about her or not? The plot of this movie is really touching, it sends you this kind of "fuck what everyone else thinks" message. This movie has a friends with benefits topic but in the end it works out, as it would. There is a lot of triumph between these main characters, a lot of moments are very surreal, you take a lot in. Another reason I enjoyed the movie was a song that played in one of the scenes, it was really pumping and jamming I literally couldn't stop listening to it once I got home (I'll link the song at the bottom). Matthias character for me was sometimes really annoying because he seemed to portray the stereo type male in films that care about sex and not noticing the important things in life. But you seriously see how big his heart is when he meets Stephanie. Marion's character was a very strong armour type of women, I liked that about her character. She didn't let men get to her because of her physical disability. When I watched the trailer I thought it was about a lady who didn't find the right type of guy in her life and then this guy come's along and changes that. But hell I was completely surprised how different it actually was. I'm glad that they didn't reveal too much of the film in the trailer or else I think I would have gotten bored. Yes you could say this movie is about a woman who is lost, then finally a guy comes along and changes that but it's much more brutal and serious than that.The thing I'm trying to say is there is SO much more to this movie than what the trailer tells us. 

What audience would you recommend this to?
16 and over

Ratings out of 5:
✯✯✯✯

Song: I follow Rivers (Magicians Remix)

	Marion Cotillard
	Matthias Schoenaerts

Blue Valentine

A romantic drama about a couple who evolve over a span of time cross cutting to time periods in their relationship. (NO it's not a Back To The Future movie) far from it...

This movie is far different from what I imagined. It's like... wow. I thought I'd watch it because I've seen the trailer a few times and it never revealed anything so I was intrigued to see what it was about! The plot is really good and at the same time depressing. The movie is very realistic I must say, that's what I like about this movie. It's not bullshitting anyone like typical romance films do, it gets to the point and hits you hard. Another reason I wanted to watch this movie was because my boyfriend Ryan Gosling was in it (don't blame me) I love his movies and... HIM. Michelle Williams pushes the limits that the average actress wouldn't normally do, you'll see once you watch the movie (seriously). This movie does have A LOT of sexual scenes but really it's for those who are mature enough to handle it. I like how the movie shows different time periods in this relationship. I would say you should watch this movie because it puts you in a different perspective of people's relationships, even though its a movie I know it happens all the time in real life. It also teaches you a shit load too. I like this movie because it makes me happy, upset and then the tension is all over the place. The ending is terribly sad it's not what you would really expect, I guess that why it's called 'Blue Valentine'. This movie isn't just about love, it's about finding ways to stay in love, be in love and love. 

What audience would you recommend this to?
Morally 18 and over but also 16 and over, contains sexual content that may offend some people

✯✯✯✯ and a half stars / 5 stars

• 
  Ryan Gosling
  Dean
• 
  Michelle Williams

Rat Race

8 people coincidently find themselves in a race for 1 million dollars. 

Such a cute and funny movie, I remember I watched this when I was little and it always made me laugh. I always seemed to remember Whoopi Goldberg
and Mr Bean, although Rowan Atkinson wasn't Mr Bean in this movie but you get the point. There's not really much to say about this movie except it's suitable for all ages. I think the plot is predictable but it's still really funny. I like how this movie shows 8 characters journeys instead of just one person. Rowan Atkinson's character was probably my favourite but the others were hilarious too I think the characters were well thought out to be honest. There are some crazy scenes in the film I wouldn't have imagined but they make the film even more enjoyable and crazy. I suggest you watch it if you want a laugh cause it's that kind of movie that will make you laugh when your angry or upset.



What audience would you recommend this to?
All ages

✯✯✯/5

Rocky

A small time boxer gets a once in a lifetime chance to fight the heavyweight champ in a bout in which he strives to go the distance for his self-respect

If you have not seen this movie then there is something wrong with you. This movie is something you should see once your born, like literally. I'm glad I grew up on MGM movies (best moments of my childhood). I'm actually inspired by this movie, after I watched it I wanted to watch it again. When the well known Rocky anthem starts playing my heart goes crazy inside and I just lose it. Sylvester Stallone does an exceptionally amazing job in this film, I'm glad he wrote it and cast himself as Rocky, I don't think anyone else could have played it as well as he did. The thing I love about this film is the relationship between him and his friend's sister (Talia Shire). His friend sets him up with his sister who stays home all the time and is as delicate as a feather. Their relationship is bloody heart-warming, probably the best romance I've seen in any film (although this film is about boxing). Seriously, when he tries to kiss her but she's too shy because she's never been kissed before and she's what... 25? the kiss in this film is sensational, you reaaaaally feel the tension! It's. Just. Amazing. (I could go on for days about their beautiful connection but I don't but to ruin it for you). I remember watching the fight near the end and couldn't help but mimic punching his opponent. Rocky is more than a film about boxing it's about romance, barriers, life challenges, dreams, aspirations & inspiration. Another reason I love this film is how similar Adrian and I are (shy, nervous and insecure) I love how I can relate to her, Rocky and her give me hope when I watch this film. In this film and the other films you see Adrian come out of her shell, she brings the best out of Rocky and Rocky brings the best out of her. Their relationship grows stronger each film, we see Rocky grow and embark on tougher journeys. Frankly the plot just get's better but I can honestly tell you THIS is the best Rocky film.

What audience would you recommend this to?
All ages

✯✯✯✯✯ and a half stars out of 5 *best kiss scene I've ever seen in a movie*

Silver Linings Playbook

After a stint in a mental institution, former teacher Pat Solitano moves back in with his parents and tries to reconcile with his ex-wife. Things get more challenging when Pat meets Tiffany, a mysterious girl with problems of her own.

Went to watch this because my amazing sister won the tickets on this random site (which I was dying to see in the first place). Ok, let me just say I fucking loved it. JLaw (Jennifer Lawrence) I love you! You were amazing, every aspect of you in the film was pure and natural. I respected her character so much because when you watch it, her character gives you an insight and feeling that you really shouldn't give a shit what people think about you. Bradley Cooper did an amazing job in this film too! I actually don't like him, I get sick of seeing at his face all the time but I had to forget about it or I'd just ruin the movie for myself. But really, his character was mental (obviously), funny and quite charming it was good to see these two actors together because their chemistry was different from other actors. You kind of have to understand the little things in this film to understand the plot but it's easy to catch on and if it doesn't get to you straight away you'll get the whole picture after the movie. The scenes in this film were great, it's was always climaxing and it kept climaxing. Robert De Niro and Jacki Weaver play Bradley Cooper's parents in the film. They're so cute and natural, I just wanted to give Jacki a hug! I love them so much, they aren't faking anything, it's what you would expect from such great actors portraying graceful ageing parents. The whole cast is actually like this big family going through the same shit and I absolutely love it! Bradley and Jennifer's characters in this film are quite the same but different, they connect in a way where if this was real life you would think they were nuts but it's a beautiful connection. The plot always has to speak through the actors and it was well done. We see so many levels of real life scenarios in this film but they aren't really announced and if you see them you keep it to yourself and your having your own little moment.Their relationship is something I adore and quite relate-able to people who feel they can't have the person they have feelings for. This movie reminds me of how we all have our  breakdowns and your sick of keeping it bottled inside, you scream it out and there's someone there to scream with you, the craziness is intense but it feels good. Sometimes I want to fucking scream too and that's why I loved this movie, because I felt like I was screaming along with them but really I was only watching, (it's not like I could scream, would have gotten kicked out of the cinema)

What audience would you recommend this to?
Seriously but I would recommend this to people who feel like they can't relate to their peers or  crowds. *people who feel like shit*

✯✯✯✯/5 stars

The Green Mile

The lives of guards on Death Row are affected by one of their charges: a black man accused of child murder and rape, yet who has a mysterious gift.

Emotional and intense. This film wouldn't be one without the amazing Michael Clarke Duncan. He was a pure soul in this film the role was meant for him, he truly is a "Gentle giant". The story itself is remarkable, all the actors in this film did extremely well. This movie struck me emotionally because Michael Clarke Duncan did such a beautiful job in this film yet I still can't believe he's not alive. (Rest in peace) 

I love that most of the plot going on in this movie is in the prison cells, it shows us the relationships between each characters, they only have each other to keep company. I love that Michael's character could heal people in the most weirdest ways. Its quite amusing that he heals one of the officers genitals, what a weird and amazing thing. I could go on about the plot forever because it's amazing but I won't! This movie definitely touches your soft spot and it doesn't let you go until the credits roll up. This movie isn't a disappointment!


What audience would you recommend this to?
15 and over

✯✯✯✯/5

Drive

Ryan Gosling portrays a quiet man who drives for a living. Whether he's driving for stunts or ex cons, he delivers a remarkable performance in this Vice City like movie.

I can easily say this is a master piece not because Ryan Gosling's in it (well partially) but the whole thing itself is a great film.This is the type of movie I would LOVE to be apart of, I mean when you finish watching it you want more and you wish it wasn't over. One of the songs in the beginning called Nightcall by Kavinsky is playing while Gosling drives through the city at night, that part is my favourite. Driving through the city at night when the roads are empty while Kavinsky is playing is just brilliant. I couldn't stop smiling at myself because the beginning was everything I liked (the 80's music, gangster theme). The quality in this movie was outstanding too, if the car made the slightest bump on the road we would feel it. Gosling's character was nicely played, I liked his quietness it made him mysterious and that was quite attractive. The relationship between him and Carey Mulligan in this film was heart warming. Another thing I love about this movie was at the beginning how they pass each other, she acknowledges him but he doesn't look at her and you feel that slight tension. It's quite similar to walking past a really good looking person and they don't look at you but they know your there and when you walk past each other it's silent. I can say some of the violence in this film was pretty gross, but it reminded me of Vice City! Actually, the whole movie reminded me of Vice City and I love Vice City!
The only thing I wish that was different about this movie was the ending (you'll know what
I'm talking about if you've watched it).

What audience would you recommend this to?
15 and over

✯✯✯✯/5

Erin Brockovich

*BASED ON A TRUE STORY*
A lady named Erin Brockovich, single mother with no qualifications, degrees or references under goes a case of contaminated water that has been killing people. She sets out this task with the trouble of looking after her children by-herself. A fierce woman that doesn't let anyone control her,own her or define her embarks on this magnificent journey, showing those with college degrees and masters that you don't need those things to get by in life but you need boobs. 

This film is perfect, that fact that this women dresses in things I wouldn't ever imagine dressing in, doesn't have a job or any qualifications yet she's making something of herself stuns me. This woman is a role model, certainly after watching this film I must say she is an inspiration regardless what she wears. This is the type of film that inspires people who feel they HAVE to stick to the books in order to make it in life. It will give you a different point of view on how some people live their life. Julia Roberts did a WOW performance she was total bad-bitch in this film, I don't know how she remembered all those lines in the really intense scenes but dear me she did a great job. This movie wouldn't be one without THE 'Erin Brockovich' herself. If you want to know more about her watch the movie then search her up. I can't believe what this woman did! Y'know it's movies like these that give you hope in life.

What audience would you recommend this to?
teens and over, there's quite a lot of swearing in it so it's not really suitable for children.


✯✯✯✯/5