The true measure of success for a film franchise is when films in the series start to become parodies of themselves. The sixth instalment in the Fast & Furious series is a true example of this, bringing back everything to love and hate from the previous five films and taking it to another level. The lines are cheesier, the plot is simpler and the action set pieces larger and more extravagant than any in the previous films (and other action films period). It’s a film where all disbelief must be averted to enjoy it and once that is done, it’s a highly memorable and enjoyable cinematic experience.
The follow up to 2009’s Star Trek reboot is an action-packed science-fiction adventure film that doesn’t quite reach the bar set in J.J. Abrams’ first film, but is entertaining enough to please Trekkies and the regular blockbuster film-going audience alike.
Amour is not easy viewing; it’s fair to say that it’s neither entertaining nor enjoyable – but it is still brilliant.
Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters is pure guilty-pleasure viewing. It’s a violent and absurd extension of the classic fairy tale, in which Hansel and Gretel are now grown up – and hunting witches.
Zero Dark Thirty tells the story of the decade-long manhunt for terrorist leader Osama Bin Laden. It is a completely engrossing look into the people involved in the operation and the methods employed by them that eventually lead to Bin Laden’s discovery and death, ten years after the September 11 terrorist attacks.
Rise of the Guardians is a moderately entertaining Dreamworks feature animation film that brings to life the fictional characters involved in the biggest lie told to children around the world.
The Man With the Iron Fists is a silly, hip-hop infused Kung-Fu action film with a poorly written script and an even poorer, generic plot.
Dredd 3D is an action-packed reboot of the popular comic book character and franchise that is Judge Dredd. It is a gritty, visual feast of violence and gore, however the story and characters unfortunately lack any depth.
The Wedding Party is a quirky ensemble comedy-drama film that centers on the relationships of a dysfunctional Australian family.
Tom Cruise and the Mission: Impossible franchise are back in top form with Ghost Protocol.
Source Code is a gripping sci-fi whodunit film that impeccably blends the time-travel and murder-mystery genres.
Thor is the Norse God of thunder and heir to the throne of Asgard. After defying his father Odin (Anthony Hopkins), Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is banished to Earth. Now powerless without the aid of his mighty hammer, the arrogant Thor must learn the true meaning of heroism whilst amongst mortals on Earth. Back on Asgard, his brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston) has assumed the role of King and does anything in his power to keep Thor from returning to re-claim the throne.
Johnny Knoxville, Steve O and Bam Margera along with the rest of the Jackass crew return for their third film outing, this time in splendid 3D.
Disney has a hit with the latest video-game adaptation in the widely popular Prince of Persia game franchise.
The latest re-imagining of the horror film A Nightmare on Elm Street is a perfect example why classic cult films should not be re-made for the latest generation of moviegoers.
Kick-Ass may initially appear as a family friendly type of superhero film that is stylistically similar to that of the Spiderman films, however it isn’t long before we see that it is nothing of the sort, it is the exact opposite to be precise.
