Changeling (2008)

Solid and sinister true story adaptation from Clint; he does know how to make a good drama. Lots of use of the word 'son', son.

4 stars

Lakeview Terrace (2008)

Samuel L. Jackson vs liberal guilt.

3.5 stars

The Grudge 2 (2006)

After a woefully trite introduction (3 schoolgirls creep into the haunted house....yes....seriously....), The Grudge sequel manages to pack in enough death-scares and creepy visuals to equal its first installment. Combined with an impressive and nerve-shredding 5.1 surround soundtrack, creepiness has never sounded so good. Horror nonsense which surprisingly delivers.

3.5 stars

Le temps du loup (2003) (a.k.a. Time of the Wolf)

Rural France suffers an unexplained disaster setting up a post-apocalyptic dystopia. Grim and bleak cinematography capture this well with lonesome wide shots, although Haneke fails to convey the visceral human struggle in the way he so obviously intended.


3 stars

Defiance (2008)

Jewish brothers set up camp in the forests of Nazi controlled territory - we shall not be moved. Amazing tale of brotherhood and camaraderie, though this does not translate to a particularly exciting screenplay. OK, but not essential viewing.


3 stars

Quantum of Solace (2008)

Mitch : Actually quite enjoyed this; the re-invention of Bond continues. Very much action packed; (Quantum of Bourne, perhaps?) at times it's pace is unrelenting. I liked it, but maybe I'm easy to please.
4 stars

Janck : If Casino Royale was the James Bond franchise being shaken, this is more of a decent stir.
3.5 stars

Tyson (2008)

Interesting documentary, but would like to have seen director Toback put up more of a fight over Iron Mike's controversial past.

3 stars