Wanderlust

Directed by David Wain, director of 'Role Models', 'Wanderlust' centers on a married couple trying to escape the pressures of sudden New York economy crashes and the expectations of modern society. Stumbling across a Georgian commune where free love rules, the couple must survey the alternate living conditions and decide where they ultimately belong, while meeting a few odd and eccentric characters who try desperately to sway their decision.

'Wanderlust' was an enjoyable film, but nowhere near as entertaining as I had expected when I first heard that it was to star Paul Rudd and Jennifer Anniston, two of the best known actors of comedy over the last two decades. Having both starred in the highly successful television show 'Friends' and each progressing onto numerous blockbusters since that time, 'Wanderlust' seemed to have all of the material that a great comedy should have, yet in my opinion it did not deliver.

Perhaps it would be more enjoyable for those who enjoy a lighter kind of comedy and all fans of rom-coms. 

Starring Paul Rudd, Jennifer Anniston, Justin Theroux, Malin Akerman and Joe Lo Truglio.

21 Jump Street (2012)

Phil Lord and Chris Miller's '21 Jump Street' is an action comedy that tells the story of two underachieving police officers who are sent back to high school, disguised as students, to infiltrate and bust a developing drug ring.

Now, what can I say about a film that has pretty much everything covered?

Written by Michael Bacall, the script features unforgettable quotes that you will be repeating with friends for days.

Following an exciting and creative story line, '21 Jump Street' features non stop gags. Just as you stop laughing and the film gets vaguely serious, another pun will send you right back into an uncontrollable fit of laughter.

This opinion is coming solely from a teenage point of view, but looking at the amount of smiling faces in the cinema when I saw this film, I would say that it is thoroughly entertaining for all ages.

Putting Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum opposite one another as the film's leading characters, Schmidt and Jenko, proved to be a highly successful pairing as the two complimented each other perfectly. Tatum, famous for his usual mix of both 'bad boy' and romantic roles in movies such as 'Step Up' (2006) and 'Dear John' (2010) has revealed yet another side of himself as a surprisingly good comedic actor, proving to be just as humorous as Hill, who found sudden fame in recent comedy greats including 'Superbad' (2007) and 'Get him to the Greek' (2010).

Watch out for some unexpected cameos as two cast members from the original 1987 series, of the same name, appear to aid in the action near the end of the film.

Starring Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Dave Franco, Brie Larson, Rob Riggle and Ice Cube.

The Woman In Black

Susan Hill's horror fiction novel entitled 'The Woman In Black' has proven itself timeless as, since its release in 1983, it has been adapted to both a television series and a highly successful theatre production, currently ranking as the second longest-running play in the history of the West End. Now James Watkins' film adaptation has reached the big screen, featuring an all star cast, including Daniel Radcliffe, Ciaran Hinds and Liz White.

The story centers on young lawyer, Arthur Kipps, who is summoned to a remote English village to settle the estate of a recently deceased woman, while staying in her isolated manor house. Most of the villagers are reluctant to reveal any information about the woman, concealing a dark and deadly secret. Kipps soon discovers that the house of his client is haunted by the vengeful ghost of a woman dressed in black, who seems to be foreshadowing the death of children.

While watching 'The Woman In Black' the viewer is transported down the nostalgic route of 'Hammer House of Horror' at its best, reminiscent of films gone by which made you jump out of your seat and fear all things that go bump in the night.

Of course what makes you jump, and how often, depends on the age of the viewer. As a teenager I felt the need to hide behind my coat for the majority of the film, therefore unable to enjoy the wonderful story line as I was to afraid to uncover my eyes; and judging by the almost constant screams coming from the gaggles of teenagers dotted around the cinema I am certain I was not the only one. Yet hearing the opinion of some older viewers made it apparent that 'The Woman In Black' did not have the power to terrify everyone.

In all honesty the only frightening moments are the 'jumpy bits', which are heightened incredibly by the volume in the cinema. Perhaps it would be a more enjoyable experience to watch it after DVD release, rather than on the big screen. Horror aside this film features a great cast, incluing a stunning performance from Liz White as the woman in black herself, and follows a fantastic story line, supported by picturesque gothic scenery from the British counties of Hillsborough and Essex.

If you do not enjoy horror that relies heavily on making the audience jump then I do not recommend that you see this film. However if thrillers are more your style, then 'The Woman In Black' will no doubt satisfy your craving for a dark and suspenceful story line and would be a worthwhile experience.

Starring Daniel Radcliffe, Ciaran Hinds, Liz White and Shaun Dooley.

Inside I'm Dancing

'Inside I'm Dancing', also released under the title 'Rory O'Shea Was Here', is a 2004 comedy-drama directed by Damien O'Donnell. The film revolves around characters Michael Connolly and Rory O'Shea, played by James McAvoy and Steven Robertson, two disabled young men who pursue their dream of physical and emotional independence in direct defiance of institutional living and society's attitudes.

Honestly, I cannot say much more other than 'Inside I'm Dancing' is a truly inspirational and beautiful film.

Having premiered at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in 2004, 'Inside I'm Dancing' makes a virtue of the familiar theme of irrepressible characters overcoming arduous circumstances. Regarding the cast, the plot excels due to the performances of both McAvoy and Robertson. McAvoy cleverly transmits Rory's immobile frustration, while Robertson impeccably conveys Michael's mangled limbs and incoherent speech, giving a fantastically vivid insight into the dysfunctional lives of individuals living in the same conditions.

This film makes perfect watching for anybody who believes in equality, beauty and freedom. If you are prone to crying at films with emotional endings then prepare for the water works and grab a box of tissues before you watch.

Starring James McAvoy, Steven Robertson, Romola Garai, Gerard McSorley, Tom Hickey and Brenda Fricker.

War Horse

Based on Michael Morpurgo's worldwide selling novel, War Horse tells the story of Albert Naracott, a young boy who enlists to service during World War One in order to find his beloved horse Joey, having been sold to the cavalry by his father.

Having seen the theatre adaptation, using puppets to represent the animals, and having immediately fallen in love with the story, I was slightly apprehensive about seeing the film, in fear of details being misplaced and the change in media creating a different feel. However I was proven wrong as I found the movie to be equally as powerful.

Right from the outset, there was fantastic interaction from the animals, eager to show that they were indeed the true stars of Spielberg's most recent masterpiece. These majestic and talented creatures are joined by a new and refreshing face, that of young actor Jeremy Irvine, playing Albert Naracott, and Benedict Cumberbatch, well known for starring in the 'Sherlock' series, who shows a great amount of versatility as he takes on the contrasting role of Maj. Jamie Stewart.

Steven Spielberg's amazing ability to direct is perceptible throughout, mainly noticeable in the scenes portraying the dysfunctional relationship between Albert and his father, known for his 'gimpy leg and the drinking', and consequently emphasising the love between Albert and Joey - an equality between man and beast.

The most significant moment of the film for me came as the British soldiers mounted their horses amongst a perfectly golden field of wheat, yet as they approach their enemies they emerge into a dark and desolate site, showing the sudden impact and dark horror of war. This balance of muddy trenches a long side beautiful country landscapes creates a truly emotional piece and makes the audience realise the value of home.

Starring Jeremy Irvine, Peter Mullan, Emily Watson, David Thewlis and Benedict Cumberbatch.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

Holmes and Watson, the ultimate crime solving double act, have returned, this time to investigate an even darker mystery and defeat their greatest foe yet, the despicable Professor Moriarty.

Featuring constant action, stunning scenery and perfectly timed humour from the wonderful Robert Downey Jr., 'A Game of Shadows' has proven to be significantly more intense and engaging than Guy Ritchie's first Sherlock Holmes film.

Perfect for those of you who love action, romance, comedy, period drama, mystery or intrigue, this movie is a must see.

Starring Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Jared Harris, Noomi Rapace and Stephen Fry. 
 

The Hangover Part II

'The Wolfpack is back' for more X rated action in the second installment of the Hangover series, this time taking on the infamous city of Bangkok while visiting Thailand for Stu's wedding, two years after the Las Vegas bachelor party.

As the sequel to a majorly successful motion picture it's fair to say that this movie had a lot to live up to, and the gags are almost identical, making this film a little tiring when watching both films consecutively. However, as a stand alone movie the laughs are never ending, and a couple of fresh faces added into the mix allows for new and crazy situations to unfold. 

With tattoos, loss of body parts and frolics with lady-boys, it's no wonder that 'The Hangover Part II' was another success for director Todd Phillips.

Starring Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis, Ed Helms and Justin Bartha