themagicalmysterytour Reviews

All the Little Animals (1998)

Know What You're Getting Into

[7/10 · 6 May 2023]

I was excited to see a John Hurt and Christian Bale film when cruising Prime one day.

I put it on that evening alone in my flat at around midnight whilst working on a project. The prime synopsis read: "Bobby (Christian Bale) runs away from home to escape his violent stepfather. He's taken in by a reclusive older man (John Hurt) until the two of them must confront Bobby's stepfather. Christian Bale is a standout in this dark moral fable."

I didn't research further as I didn't want anything spoiled. Of course, elsewhere online it states that the father kills all of Bobby's pets, prompting his escape.

As the movie made it past the first 10 minutes, I knew that it was not what I was expecting. I was ready for a heartwarming tale of a boy growing up and learning, with the help of a hermit, how to stand up to his stepfather.

I was met with a horror movie. With my cat beside me, we powered through this depressing, chaotic, and angering film. There is nothing particularly wrong with the acting, or the writing, or the cinematography, or the directing. But the subject matter is loaded. You will be yelling at the television at multiple points. I will not spoil any additional plot points as my review is more of a warning.

I have now read the book and learned more about the author-but I don't think I can ever watch the film again. Please proceed with caution when watching this film, as it will take a lot out of you.

Alan Partridge Live: Stratagem (2022 TV Special)

An enjoyable romp with Alan Partridge

[8/10 · 6 May 2023]

There are many negative reviews here, but I personally think it's quite good. I'm not a huge stand up comedy fan, but I enjoy the song bits and the sketches scattered throughout-reminiscent of Monty Python's 2014 reunion. Although it doesn't quite feel like Alan, Steve does a great job leading the show and interacting with the audience and fellow performers. Does the character translate to live theatre as well as televison? Probably not. However, it's quite impressive, and even when not chuckling outloud, I was still very much entertained.

I would recommend giving this a watch, as there are lots of throwbacks to previous Partridge bits (Martin Brennan's appearance is particularly memorable). But it may not be everyone's cup of tea.

Candyman (2021)

Would Recommend Giving it a Watch

[6/10 · 14 September 2021]

The last twenty minutes took me right out of the movie, but I do think this is an important revamping of Candyman at an important time. They definitely bit off more than they could chew in the writing department, with too many subtle plot points causing issue to continuity. HOWEVER, the acting, cinematography, and first hour and a bit are excellent. I was thoroughly engrossed. The ball may have been dropped, but others I have talked with didn't mind any inconsistencies and enjoyed the film. I would recommend giving it a go, even if you turn it off before the final act. Also, the Candyman's look is incredible, costuming is very well done.

Copenhagen Road (2019)

Suspenseful and Thrilling Short FIlm

[10/10 · 17 July 2019]

Copenhagen Road is a wonderfully dark short film directed by Lee Chambers and written by himself and Kris Ketonen. It stars Diana Cofini and Matt Connors as the only two characters interacting one night (for the first time?) at a car shop in this short, but tight, thriller. What follows is a suspenseful conversation, helped along with short flashback sequences and phenomenal acting. Masterfully directed and edited. This is definitely a must see short film

Truly Madly Deeply (1990)

Better than Ghost?

[9/10 · 29 July 2014]

Perhaps it is the caliber of acting, or my fascination with the two leads, or the British accents, but I find this movie better than it's foremost competition, Ghost. It is much more simple, and in the end, does not leave the viewer wanting more. Alan Rickman (Who everyone seems to typecast as Severus Snape, but was freaking Hans Gruber in Die Hard and The Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves), plays Jamie, who mysteriously died from a short ailment, leaving his wife (Juliet Stevenson) behind. He suddenly, (unexplained), returns to his wife in a strange ghost/human form. It is, although sometimes a bit strange and confusing, an excellent story with an excellent cast. In the same form as Ghost, Claire has to learn to move on from her husbands unexpected death and find a new life and love.