Why is there such a shortage of decent films in the summer. Maleficent is OK, but the terrific performance from Angelina Jolie hardly compensates for an indulgence in 3D movie making. The effects are fairly impressive (yes, it really does look good) but the story and script are predictable and somewhat juvenile. There had to be a fun side show of three British actresses (Imelda Staunton, Lesley Manville and Juno Temple) playing cheeky fairies, but their dialogue borders on the terrible. What a waste of their talent.
I always avoid American comedies but 22 Jump Street had such good reviews that in the absence of anything better, I gave it a go. It turned out to be a modern version of the comic buddy cop movie or Stakeout for the 21st century. I have to admit that there were a few laughs and the the story bubbles along nicely. I was surprised that the script and direction were so good, but I still cannot stand Jonah Hill. Channing Tatum makes a good fist of the dumb one of the pair, its just that Hill is far too prominent for my taste.
At last, a proper drama, although a historical and costume one at that. Belle is on the one hand a Pride and Prejudice romantic drama but on the other confronts race, gender and the politics of slavery head on. It is based on the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle (a superb performance from Gugu Mbatha-Raw) a black girl taken under the wing of her uncle the Earl of Mansfield and Lord Chief Justice also well played by the dependable Tom Wilkinson. At Kenwood House she is a companion for Elizabeth Murray (another niece) and they grow to be great friends.There are more great performances from Emily Watson, Penelope Wilton and Miranda Richardson. The tension is nicely tightened by a great script from Misan Sagay and superb direction from Amma Asante. Three cheers for Pinewood Picture, the BFI and others for making this important, entertaining independent movie.
No comments:
Post a Comment