Hostel

Why are films labelled as the most sickest, goriest film etc. disappointing when they're finally released. I was really expecting more from this but came away having this as the worst film this year.

A trio of backpackers (2 Americans and an Icelandic) travel to Amsterdam where they are then directed to a hostel in Bratislava where all their desires can be met not realising they've been set up as victims of an elite company where people pay to kill tourists.

For a film that starts out in Amsterdam, why is everyone speaking German? At least they acknowledged Iceland, which doesn't happen much in Hollywood. The actual premise of the film is its scariest bit, the idea that this could happen is far more disturbing than any of the maiming or torture that fills the second half of the film.

Don't bother watching this. Watch Chicken Little instead.

V for Vendetta

Another comic book adaptation, and this one is actually pretty good. Sin City is still my favourite but this would probably take second place. Starring the guy who played Agent Smith in the Matrix and Natalie Portman, who benefits from a better script than Star Wars, the story tells of one man's attempt to overthrow the overcontrolling Government and in doing so give the public the strength and conviction to stand up for the truth and not be railroaded by the media and politicians.

The first thing that makes this an interesting film is that the lead actor playing V spends ALL of the film behind a mask and its refreshing to see his artistic integrity take precedence over his ego (Stallone in Judge Dredd perhaps?). Natalie plays a confused girl caught up in V's plot to blow up the house of commons.

The final fight sequence is pretty cool with sword swishes digitally added to look a soul caliber game. It's a shame it is spoiled by the guy taking a load of bullets to a small chest plate and the rest of his body being pretty much exposed and bullet free. I also like any film that features a domino toppling scene.

The final sequences with lots of people dressed as V marching towards The Houses of Parliament to watch it blow up was particularly good too! There is a message in the film in questioning what the state and media tells you; maybe that is why the papers gave it such bad reviews, which I think were unfounded.

My Trip to Japan

After a few false starts I've finally written up my trip to Japan last September with plenty of pictures to look at. Site can be found at this link

Please enjoy, it's been a labour of love to put together!!

My Karaoke Performance

During the Japan trip last year I participated in a Karaoke performance in which I was almost knocked out by the person I was singing with.

Footage has just been posted up on the site here They're at the bottom of the page.

Enjoy!

A Day in the Life of...

Natalie Portman. Funny skit from Saturday Night Live in the states. YouTube - Natalie Portman SNL Rap

Beck "Hell Yes"

Beck has had some pretty cool videos but I think this is the best one of his I've seen. Those robots are cool!

Hell Yes

Simpsons: Live Action

Heard about this from a mate who is a bit part actor. He got picked to play the part of the Music Teacher. It's being used to promote the latest series of the Simpson's in the UK.

Nice one Mick!

Simpsons: Live Action

Kick the baby!

Very funny series of shorts from Spanish director Javier Fesser, mostly around his real life housekeeper kicking his real life son. As absurd as it sounds, but laugh out loud hilarious. Each lasts around 30 seconds so you have no excuse.

I like the 2nd one best.

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