The Grey (2012)

Old people kicking-ass, and to be precise, old people kicking vicious animal ass. Is that a buy-in from you? Hell yeah, if its Liam "kick-em where it hurts" Neeson!

The Skinny: A team of oil-drillers crash lands in Alaska, right smack in the middle of wolf-territory, where the local animals see them as intruders and decides to eliminate them. What they didn't expect was Liam "kick em where it hurts" Neeson is among the group of humans. Animal ass-kicking ensues. 

The Helmer: Joe Carnahan - The Grey (2012), A Team (2010), Smokin Aces (2006), Faceless (TV movie) (2006), Ticker (Short) (2002), Narc (2002), Blood, Guts, Bullets and Octane (1998).

The Scribe: Joe Carnahan

The Players: Liam Neeson, Dermot Mulroney, James Badge Dale, Frank Grillo, Joe Anderson, Nonso Anozie, Dallas Roberts, Larissa Stadnichuk, Ben Bray, James Bitonti, Johnathan Bitonti. 

Release Date: US - 27th Jan 2012

The Prediction: I kinda like the works of helmer Joe Carnahan, especially his early work on Narc, a tense, dark and brooding thriller with Jason Patric about the life and death of a narcotics officer with a narc habit. And then he went on ahead shortly after to helm the very underrated "Smokin Aces" with its plus pointer of having the sweet Alicia Keys in the role of a bisexual Assassin with a big gun. And most recently he did a fun, but fatal revival of "The A Team". Carnahan delivers and this time with Liam Neeson I don't anything else but delivery of a very interesting movie. My prediction? This is Taken, but in reverse, and with wolves instead of human traffickers. No, I jest, it looks good. And I'm looking forward to seeing it next year. 

Official Trailer

Official Site 

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)

Before I became a committed actionfilck-junkie, I was a closet-armchair espionage junkie. To me, the Brits corners the spy game better than any other race on the planet. Possibly because they're sneaker mothers, and primarily because they kinda ruled the world for a bit (before it ruled them back haha). Top of the game in the spy genre was and still is of course, John Le Carre, real name David Cornwall. And this little gem of a story is the epitome of genuine tradecraft written by a true master. After all, Le Carre did clock in his time ...

The Skinny: George Smiley has been kicked out of the British spy institution aka the Circus, only to be called in surreptitiously to uncover a mole. Unaided, working on the outside, the seemingly slow and innocuous ex-spy master returns in top form to not only uncover the truth, but to also exact a personal vendetta.

The Helmer: Tomas Alfredson - Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011), Sissela Kyle - Dina Dagar ar raknade (video - 2011), Let the Right One In (2008), Her tanker hon (video 2008), En decemberdrom (TV series) (2005), Dear Mr. Barroso (TV) (2005), Pappas lillas tjockis (TV movie) (2005), Min sista vilja (TV movie) (2005), En dalig ide (TV movie) (2005), Landins (TV movie) (2005), Four Shades of Brown (2004), Kontorstid (2004), Sperhaharen (video) (2002), Soldiers by Moonlight (TV series) (2000), En liten film (1999), Offer och garningsman (TV series) (1999), Screwed in Tallinn (TV movie) (1999), Irma och gerd (TV series) (1997), Bert - Den Siste Oskulden (1995), Bert (TV series (1994), Ikas TV-Kalas (TV series)(1990). 

The Scripter: John Le Carre

The Players: Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, John Hurt, Toby Jones, Mark Strong, Benedict Cumberbatch, Claran Hinds, David Denchik.

Release Date: 9th December 2011 (US)

The Prediction: This movie is like the who's who of British megastars - headed by the very liquid Gary Oldman reprising the role of Smiley previously held in the BBC TV Series by Sir Alec Guiness, supported by Colin Firth, John Hurt, Tom Hardy and the very capable all-rounder Mark Strong. What packs the punch is of course the Swedish wunderkind Tomas Alfredson who soiled the pants of many film critics with his sad/horrific child vampire tale "Let the Right One In". And somehow it all makes sense. In the latter age of instant information, special effects and multi-layered ploting, this aged timepiece set in London 70s proves that its all in the captivating storytelling which makes all the difference. How will the film fare? Pretty well. From where I sit, it has NOTHING to mitigate an almost perfect film. 

Official Trailer

Official Site

Outrage (Autoreiji) (2010) - Japan

This is on limited release, if you're lucky you will get a copy of this, somewhere, somehow. And if you want it bad enough and you should, mind you, you will obtain it. I love gangster movies, I love gangster movies even more when it comes from Japan, and it involves Japan's answer to Clint Eastwood / Charles Bronson - actor / director / scripter "Beat" Takeshi Kitano. The rock-faced enforcer who only cracks a smile when delivering a joke or a painful kick to the groin.

The Skinny: A Japanese mob head delegates the job of keeping a rogue band of drug dealers in line, but as expected trouble erupts ... 

The Helmer / Scripter: Takeshi Kitano - Outrage 2 (2011), Outrage (2010), Archilles & the Tortoise (2008), Glory to the Filmmaker! (2007), To Each his Own (segment) (2007), Takeshi's (2005), The Blind Swordsman: Zaitochi (2003), Dolls (2002), Brother (2000), Kikujiro (1999), Fireworks (1997), Kids Return (1996), Getting Any? (1994), Sonatine (1993), A Scene at the Sea (1991), Boiling Point (1990), Violent Cop (1989). 

The Players: Takeshi Kitano, Kippel Shiina, Ryo Kase, Tomokazu Miura, Jun Kunimura, Tetta Sugimotto, Takashi Tsukamoto, Yuka Itaya, Hideo Nakano, Renji Ishibashi, Fumiyo Kohinata, Soichiro Kitamura

The Prediction: Two words: This Rocks. Prediction? You don't no prediction hombre. 

Trailer

The Descendents (2011)

I like dramas. No seriously, I may come off as a man who likes gobsmacking action flicks with rapid kicks to the face and groin, I do know how to appreciate a good drama when one comes along. All the more better when the drama showcases my favorite actor, directed by a brilliant, almost-genius director, based on a book thats pretty much spot on the aging male psyche. I'm of course, mumbling about Alexander Payne and his very promising looking drama with the incomparable King of Cool, George Clooney. 

The Skinny: Married man, father and worried husband Matt King, a land baron from Hawaii discovers much to his horror that his comatose wife Elizabeth was having an affair during her waking days before she fell under. Filled with grief and needing to know the truth he embarks on a personal journey with his two daughters to discover who the man was. 

The Helmer / Scripter: Alexander Payne -  Fork in the Road (2012), Nebraska (2012), The Descendents (2011), Hung (TV - 2009), Cinema16: American Short Films (2006), Paris, Je'taime (segment - 2006), Sideways (2004), About Schmidt (2002), Election (1999), Citizen Ruth (1996), Inside Out III (video - 1992), The Passion of Martin (1991), Inside Out (video - 1991), Carmen (short - 1985). 

The Players: George Clooney, Shallene Woodley, Amara Miller, Nick Krause, Patricia Hastie, Grace A. Cruz, Kim Gennaula, Beau Bridges, Stanton Johnston, Matt Corboy, Michael Ontkean, Carmen Kaichi, Karen Kuioka Hironaga

Release Date: Singapore 26 Jan 2012

The Prediction: Have you seen the trailer? Its a good trailer - the sound track (the clapping sounds rythmic to the running footfalls of King as he runs down the road), with the surprising grey backdrop of beautiful Hawaii coupled with the unprettiness of real life (compared to cinematic life) lends it an overall deep rooted, albeit pleasant approach to understanding the aging male mind as he faces emotional meltdown; something which he seems ill-equipped to handle. How do I rate it based on all this? Pretty high. I'm looking forward to this. Especially with the mesmerizing and thoroughly engaging Sideways , which bowled us over back in 2004. Payne has that touch and hopefully it will be seen again here. I believe it will resonate with Clooney on board. 

Official Site

Official Trailer

 

Final Destination 5 (2011)

Honestly? For real? Number 5? Really? Gee, I guess theres a lot of people out there who'd want to see the same kind of movie 5 TIMES, with a KNOWN ENDING. I guess us humans really do have short attention span. 

The Skinny: Place - suspension bridge / Event - lotsa people die when it collapses / Hero created - dude and pals escape inevitable death due to future sequence in the mind's eye, also known as "premonition" / Outcome - death comes after them, in a big way. The only difference: movie poster. Yaaaaawwwwwwnnnnnnn ... *stretches arms and falls back to sleep* But WAIT! Wake up!! Its in THREE DEE!! Hoowee! (erm, like the previous one as well ...)

The Helmer: Steven Quale - Final Destination 5 (2011), Aliens of the Deep (documentary) (2005), Superfire (TV movie) (2002), Darkness (short) (1998). 

The Casts: Tony Todd, Nicholas D'Agosto, Emma Bell, P.J. Byrne, David Koechner, Courtney B. Vance, Ellen Wroe, Miles Fisher, Time Fellingham

Tagline: Death Has Never Been Closer 

Release Date: 25th August 2011 (Malaysia)

The Prediction: Could it just be me but I don't quite like sequels when it goes beyond number three and reaching midway before it touches 2 digits. Why? Because it tells me two things: 1: the big studio boys are too lazy to get creative and grow some stones in looking for, and bankrolling a NEW decent horror movie, and 2: its all very convenient; slap together a bunch of screaming kids, find new ways to kill them, make some buckaroos, prepare for part 6. It smells too much of lazy sunday afternoon hangover decision being put together in a desperate attempt to make surefire money. What do I PREDICT? If you like the franchise, and you're cool about watching it for the 5th time, then go for it. Otherwise, go watch Little House on the Prairie, all 28 seasons. Or maybe read a book. What? That thing made of paper and opens up page by page ... no, it doesn't come with a switch, or a button at the bottom centre of it.

Official Trailer

Official Movie Site

KL Gangster (Malaysia) (2011)

A flashy, fast-paced, violent gangster movie with all the right moves. Almost. 


The Skinny: Ex-convict Malek chooses the life of honest living upon release from a 5 year prison stint, only to be drawn back into the violent life of gangster-living. To complicate matters, his younger brother is keen to draw him into an epic showdown between two rival gangs in their bid to control the city of KL. 


The Helmer: Syamsul Yusof -  KL Gangster (2011), Khurafat: Perjanjian Syaitan (2011), Evolusi: KL Drift 2 (2010), Bohsia: Jangan Pilih Jalan Hitam (2009), Evolusi: KL Drift (2008). 


The Casts: Aaron Aziz, Syamsul Yusof, Azizan, Ridzuan Hashim, Adyputra


The Review: The short but impressive directing / writing history of the young Syamsul Yusof is something to marvel at, having gone beyond the range of his father's melodrama to jump both feet forward into cracking good actioneers. His choice to dabble into all things KL, be it illegal racers, gangsters or young women with loose morals is a smart move as it does appeal to the urban Malays, something which does not happen on a daily basis. This movie displays pretty decent fight scenes and quite awesome stunts. All very nice and satisfying for those in dire need of local eye-candy. Okay, now the bad news: its all flash and bang with poor scripting and ineffective acting. Why must the players be shouting ALL the time? Continuity is pretty hodge-podge with an ending that hangs conveniently on a narrated outcome. If only there was more depth to the story and a bit more human development of the key characters. However, it is an improvement from his previous films, and for him to improve further his scripts MUST be polished further. What begins as a great opening scene, kinda deteriorates into a series of set-pieces designed to get flashy bite-sized action scenes. What gets me is the posing done by all except for Aaron Aziz; each character is two-dimensionally simple with no second degree depth. Which is a pity as the storyline, although pretty much done to death (ex-con wanna go straight but is pulled back into a life of crime), is still very much compelling. 


Trailer

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (2011)

And so the empire-sized meglodon-like, licence-to-print-cold-hard-cash epic of JK Rowlings Harry Potter series comes to a close ...  


The Skinny: Harry Potter and pals fights to the death with the eviiiiiiiil Lord V in an epic battle the likes of which wizard-story-reading-fans have never, ever, ever seen in their entire wizard-story-reading-fans reading life! Bring it on Lord V!


The Helmer: David Yates - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (2011), Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 (2011), Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince (2009), Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007), The Girl in the Cafe (TV movie) (2005), Sex Traffic (TV movie) (2004), State of Play (TV series) (2003), Rank (short) (2002), The Way We Live Now (TV series) (2001), The Sins (TV series) (2000), The Tichborne Claimant (1998), Punch (short) (1996), The Bill (TV series) (1994 - 1995), Moving Pictures (TV documentary series) (1994), Good Looks (short) (1992), Oranges and Lemons (short) (1991), The Weaver's Wife (short) (1991), When I Was a Girl (short) (1991). 


The Casts: Daniel Radcliffe, Ralph Fiennes, Michael Gambon, Emma Watts, Alan Rickman, Rupert Grint, John Hurt, Helena Bonham Carter 


The Tagline: It All Ends 


The Prediction: This looks really good actually; epic scale with no-going-back demolition of huge, cultural architectural structures, with deaths of loved characters. This is the big one - where Harry faces off with his enemy Lord Voldemort, to the death! 


Trailer
Official Website
Harry Potter Books
JK Rowling's Official Site 

Juan of the Dead (2011) (Cuba) Juan de los Muertos

Apparently this is Cuba's first horror movie, and looking at the trailer, its one helluva horror movie seemingly epic-like. Which is always good in my books. 


The Skinny: The zombie apocalypse has reached Cuba and it is up to Juan to take out your loved ones. The living dead, loved ones that is. Zombie horror comedy ensues. 


The Helmer: Alejandro Brugues - Juan of the Dead (2011), Personal Belongings (2006)


The Casts: Alexis Diaz de Villegas, Andrea Duro, Jorge Molina, Blanca Rosa Blanco 


The Tagline: 50 Years After the Revolution, A New Revolution is About to Begin ... 


The Prediction: I'm basing my prediction purely on the trailer and I'm saying it looks good. Disregard the title is a rip-off of Edgar Wright's "Shaun of the Dead", or even its similar premise: 2 best friends face-off an entire zombie horde, and just enjoy the movie or what it is. It looks big, promising and very chucklesome. So yeah, this movie looks set to rock. 


Trailer from Twitch.com

Official Website

Mission Impossible 4: Ghost Protocol (2011)

I did a semi-review here last year on this movie, but since its coming up pretty soon in about 5 months time, thought i'd update the prediction plus trailer. You know you wanna ... 


The Skinny: the IMF team (no, not the one with money and shit), but the Impossible Mission Force headed by Ethan Hunt, is, once again, not unlike the first movie installment with John Voight, on the run from the United States government and practically everyone else when they're being framed for the bombing of the Kremlin. Its up to the team to clear their name and bring bad dudes to justice. By kicking ass, blowing up stuff and driving real fast. Nice. 


The Helmer: Brad Bird - 1906 (2012), Mission Impossible - Ghost Protocol (2011), Ratatouille (2007), Jack-Jack Attack (short) (2005), The Incredibles (2004), The Iron Giant (1999), The Simpsons (TV) (1990 - 1991), Do the Batman (short) (1990), Amazing Stories (TV) (1987).


The Casts: Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Paula Patton, Tom Wilkinson, Anil Kapoor


Release Date: 16 December 2011 (USA)


The Prediction: This is the big one for 2011, not robots, not wizards, not a buncha guys waking up in Thailand getting wasted. Nope, this is the Mac Daddy for 2011. What do we have here? Incredibles director Brad Bird who hits a 10 for ALL his movies, Tom Cruise, action-stamped franchise, hot tamale Paula Patton, bad-boy Jeremy Renner, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, gadgets, cars, stunts and a very decent story line. Thats what we have here booyah! My prediction? My prediction?! Do you NEED a prediction??!!


Trailer

Wikipedia on Mission Impossible - Ghost Protocol

Adam Chaplin (2011) (Italy) (Horror)

Once in a while a movie comes out that redefines cinema for that particular country. With Korea, the seminal arrival of "Shiri" marked the beginning of its golden cinema age; for Thailand, it can be said to be "Ongbak" which displayed awesome kick-assory, and for Italy, it is a recall of its great horror past with this little gem of a film. 


The Skinny: Local dude's wife gets killed to death and so the dude gets upset and summons a demon to assist him in getting bloody vengeance. Bloody manga-sh!t goes down. 


The Helmer: Emanuele de Santi 


The Casts: Emanuele de Santi 


The Prediction: This is a marriage of convenience for Japanese anime dripped in gore, with real life action. Looking at the trailer, it seems to depict a return to Crow sensibilities, something thats not been seen for a bit, and is very much welcomed. I'm quite partial to goth, but goth + gore? I'm in love. This is set to be epic, and will be leading a pack of wannabes and groupies. I have high hopes for this Italian number, only because the whole set up looks very very promising. 


Trailer: The Thief Sequence

Horror movies.com

Red Hill (2010) (Australia)

You'd probably find this movie at your corner DVD store, as it has been released since last year. It'll be hidden behind Bruce Willis' "Red", or even the pseudo horror movie "Red Riding Hood". Whatever it is, I believe this is the better of the "Red" movies currently available on DVD and Bluray. 

The Skinny: Newly installed constable Shane Cooper jumps right into action on his first day at work in a small rural Australian town called Red Hill in outback Victoria, when an escaped convict rolls in town to exact bloody vengeance. 

The Helmer: Patrick Hughes - Red Hill (2010), Signs (Short) (2008), The Lighter (Short) (2001), The Director (Short) (2000). 

The Casts: Ryan Kwanten, Steve Bisley, Tommy Lewis, Christopher Davis, Kevin Herrington

The Review: I'd say this is a new perfect film, and an even nearer perfect revenge movie. From the dialogue to the acting to the directing to the editing to the cinematography. What starts out slow and even-paced escalates to a very fast technical and methodical execution from scene to scene; each action getting an equal an devastating reaction. The escaped convict, the almost-silent Kevin Herrington plays the part of a single-minded hunter out to take down the men who destroyed his life. It is both brutal and upon a second viewing, very much justified as the hunted are shot, and decimated at point blank range. I like the sensibilities of the ending as the decision Herrington takes is one which all of us would take; it is not morally sound nor is it poetic, its just an angry man doing what he's been planning to do for the past 10 years, and to do it right. 

Trailer

Review by Slant Magazine

Killer Elite (2011)

Jason Statham is officially the toughest man on the planet. And he kicks ass. And all his movies kicks ass. Which makes him one tough ass-kicking dude who acts in movies involving heavy duty ass-kicking. 


The Skinny: This is based on a TRUE story. Ex-elite SAS (Special Air Service) hard man is pulled out of retirement to rescue his father-figure mentor who has been kidnapped by tough as nails military rival. Ass kicking ensues. 


The Helmer: Gary McKendry - Killer Elite (2011), Everything in this country must (short) (2004). 


The Casts: Jason Statham, Clive Owens and Robert DeNiro. 


Release Date: 23rd September 2011


The Prediction: I've never heard of this director, and looking at his history, he doesn't seem to have any. And why are they letting him helm this awesome ass-kicker? Especially with breathtaking heavies of Statham, Owen and De Niro? Why indeed. The studios must have liked his vision and / or the strong story he co-wrote. The trailer looks awesome btw, it serves the purpose of embodying heavy duty ass-kicking with dirty violent action underlined by hard rocking sounds of Scorpions belting out Rock You Like a Hurricane. Which is always a good thing in my books. Do I predict that this movie is worth seeing? Yes. It. Is. Knock yourselves out guys, this is the one you must see before 2011 closes. 


Trailer

Wikipedia's take on the action flick

A Dangerous Method (2011)

I seriously dig ALL David Cronenberg's movies. They're awesome because each movie comes with its own special warning on the label, to be discovered later on in the film. Its also beautifully realized with incredibly polished moods, practically embedded in the fabric of the film. This is his latest movie, and from the trailer, it looks awesome.

The Skinny: Carl Jung and Sigmund Frued faces off in this 18th century period piece which centres on the development of modern psychiatry and the attention of a disturbed young woman. Mind-fux ensues.

The Helmer:  David Cronenberg - Cosmopolis (2012), A Dangerous Method (2011), Eastern Promises (2007), A History of Violence (2005), Spider (2002), Short6 (segment: Camera) (2001), Existenz (1999), Crash (1996), M. Butterfly (1993), Naked Lunch (1991), Scales of Justice (TV series) (1990), Dead Ringers (1988), Friday the 13th (TV series) (1988), The Fly (1986), The Dead Zone (1983), Videodrome (1983), Scanners (1981), The Brood (1979), Fast Company (1979), Rage (1977), Teleplay (TV series) (1976), The Came from Within (1975), Peep Show (TV series) (1975), Lakeshore (TV short) (1972), Fort York (TV short) (1972), In the Dirt (TV short) (1972), Scarborough Bluffs (TV short) (1972), Winter Garden (TV short) (1972), Programme X (TV series) (1972), Don Valley (TV short) (1972), John Ritchie Sculptor (TV movie) (1971), Tourettes (TV movie) (1971), Letter from Michaelangelo (TV movie) (1971), Crimes of the Future (1970), Stereo (1969), From the Drain (short) (1967), Transfer (short) (1966).

The Casts: Viggo Mortensen, Keira Knightly, Michael Fassbender, Vincent Cassel, Sarah Gadon, Andre Hennicke

Release Date: 10th November 2011

The Prediction: Cronenberg's movies should be waited patiently for, and when arrived, be celebrated. Apart from the Coen brothers, when this guy pops out a new film, you know you're in for a treat. A dark, visceral treat, but a treat nonetheless. Of his recent works I've loved "Eastern Promises" and the very visually violent "A History of Violence". Both movies have Viggo Mortensen leading, and both movies technicalizes the brutality of humans when trapped and forced to defend himself. So is this 18th century period piece a great way to pass 2 hours with a loved one? I'd say yes, only because its helmed by a master. No less.

Movie Trailer

Wikipedia on A Dangerous Method 

Drive (2011)

This has the premise of a really solid, cracking bank-heist-gone-wrong movie. And we haven't seen one of those in a while. Lets see if this lives up to our expectations. 


The Skinny: Stunt driver who doubles as a getaway-car driver gets caught smack in the middle of someone's cross-hair when a bank robbery goes horribly wrong. He's a stunt driver, and he's on the lam. Rubber-burning action ensues. 


Release Date: 16th September 2011 (USA)


The Helmer: Nicolas Winding Refn - Logans Run (2012), Only God Forgives, Drive (2011), Valhalla Rising (2009), Bronson (2008), Miss Marple: Nemesis (TV movie) (2007), I'm the Angel of Death: Pusher III (2005), With Blood on my Hands: Pusher II (2004), Fear X (2003), Bleeder (1999), Pusher (1996). 


The Scribes: James Sallis (writer), Hossein Amini (screenplay) - 47 Ronin (2012), Drive (2011), Shanghai (2010), Killshot (2008), The Four Feathers (2002), The Wings of the Dove (1997), Jude (1996), Deep Secrets (1996), The Dying of the Light (1992). 


The Casts: Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Christina Hendricks, Ron Perlman, Bryan Cranston, Albert Brooks, Oscar Isaac, Tina Huang, Cesar Garcia, Joe Pingue, Christian Cage, Tiara Parker, James Biberi, Jeff Wolfe, River Stone McKeever. 


The Prediction: I've only seen one of Winding's films, which was the very bleak, cold and tough as nails "Valhalla Rising". He doesn't waste much time with dialogue so I'm assuming his take on a bank heist gone wrong genre will recreate the starkness of Valhalla. I'm also very curious about his Pusher trilogy. A big hit in his native Denmark as it was instrumental in catapulting him to international cult figure for vicious, uncompromising violence. All in all, I'm pretty keen in seeing this one. It has hollywood written all over it, which I hope is underlined by his signature moves and labeling. It should do well with crime-thriller purists.


Trailer
Wikin on Drive

Seru (2011) (Malaysia)

(Seru: definition Malay - to cry out, to call out. In the context of Malay lore, it is to call out to spirits a practice normally undertaken by bomohs, or shamans.)


Its been a long while since I've been excited and enthusiastic about a Malaysian movie, especially a horror movie. To date, the horror scene in Malaysia have been hackneyed, copied, and repeated again and again until the parody has become a parody in itself. Not to mention its quite crap and uncreative. Until the emergence of this successful Blair Witch Project meets Rec meets Malaysian lore. And it works. It bloody hell works. 


The Skinny: Film crew of a horror movie production in a remote jungle village gets relentless attacked by malevolent spirits, in the form of demonically possessed female production crew. One by one they are hunted down and brutally murdered.


The Helmer: Mohd Pierre Andre - Seru (2011), Be Silent (2009), I'm Not Single (2008), 9 September (2007). 
The Helmer2: Woo Ming Jin - Seru (2011), The Tiger Factory (2010), 15Malaysia (documentary) (2008), Days of the Turquoise Sky (TV movie) (2008), Blue Roof (short) (2007), The Elephant and the Sea (2007), Salon (2005), Its Possible Your Heart Cannot be Broken (short) (2005), Monday Morning Glory (2005), Love for Dogs (short) (2004). 


The Scribers: Mohd Pierre Andre and Woo Ming Jin. 


The Casts: Sharnaaz, Nisha Dir, Cut Mutia, Mohd Pierre Andre, Awal Ashari, Nora Danish, Azan Hassan, Kat.


Release Date: 28th April 2011


The Verdict: An excellent and effective documentary style horror movie which takes smart lessons from existing horror movies. What comes to mind is of course the hand-held video camera low cost horror movie Blair Witch Project and the Spanish zombie handy-cam horror Rec. Both were referred to, but Seru does one up, by intelligently making use of the plot and storyline to its advantage, essentially pitting camera crew, with their access to video cameras and lighting, against demonically-possessed crew hands. What is striking about the movie is its excessive use of violence and the subsequent gore that comes from the violence. Its also clever by including a plot device which emerges unexpectedly later in the movie. Its refreshing and encouraging to see young writers and directors take on hollywood style film-making and come out scratch-free. I liked this movie alot. This works for me. 


Trailer

Straw Dogs (2011) (remake)

In the spirit of remakes, or, under the cloud of no-ideas, the 1971 revenge actioneer led by latent gunpowder keg Dustin Hoffman gets redone. Where the previous locale was in boondocks Britain this time around its in boondocks US of A. How will it fare? Spate of revenge movies dredged from the 70s are getting the once over; spit and polish with just that right amount of elbow grease making it glossy, more expensive and relevant. Or is it? 


The Skinny: Scriptwriter faces trouble and violence when he relocates with his wife to the wife's hometown down south. Old jealousies and resentment bubbles to the surface for a grisly showdown. 


The Helmer: Rod Lurie - Borderline (2012), Straw Dogs (2011), Nothing but the Truth (2008), Speechless (TV documentary) (2008), Resurrecting the Champ (2007), I'm Paige Wilson (TV movie) (2007), Commander in Chief (TV series) (2005), Line of Fire (TV series) (2003 - 2004), The Nazi (short) (2002), The Last Castle (2001), The Contender (2000), Deterrence (1999), 4 Second Delay (short) (1998). 


The Scribe: Rod Lurie 


The Casts: James Marsden, Kate Bosworth, James Wood, Alexander Skarsgard, Walton Goggins, Anson Mount, Laz Alonso, Rhys Coiro, Grant Case, Drew Powell, Kristen Shaw, Courtney ShayYoung,  Billy Lush, Willa Holland. 


Release Date: 16th September 2011 (USA)


The Prediction: I loved the original Straw Dogs done in 1971 which had nerd times 2 Dustin Hoffman literally fight off the locals attention away from his luscious (read: sexy-dangerous) wife Susan George. The 1971 film helmed by the legendary Sam Peckinpah was notorious for its rape scene; back in the day. But a latter day viewing of the original carries the same effect most especially on the degradation of women as the questions arose: was she a willing participation of the rape? Or was she a tease which had it coming? Should lines be drawn to separate the two? Be that as it may, I'm wondering if this remake can stand up to the brutal take of Peckinpah. Rod Lurie seems to know what he's doing with is history of near perfect movies starting with the very original and highly entertaining The Contender back in 2000. Will this movie take up the core subject of jealousy, revenge, betrayal and the shifting dynamics of a husband/wife power struggle? Will it be easy viewing or an uncomfortable, thought-provoking experience? I'm curious how this movie fell in the hands of Lurie, as he is known for depicting empowered women as the basis of this movie is the objectification of women. Will it be a turnaround? Whatever it is I just hope it won't be as pointless and irrelevant as the abysmal Last House on the Left remake which had NOTHING going for it except ... NOTHING. Be that as it may, I'd say, go for it. This should be a solid revenge actioneer. And you know I loves me my revenge movies. Trailer looks pretty promising. Except for James Marsden's hair. Why?


Trailer 
Wiki on Straw Dogs 1971

Wiki on Straw Dogs 2011

Iron Sky (2012)

This is one of those movies which just pops out of nowhere, pokes people in the eyes and pop back in from whence it came. Its a Finnish sci-fi comedy featuring WW2-slant visuals seen from the side of the Nazis. How weird is that? Pretty much. 


The Skinny: The Nazis having established a moon base on the moon in 1945 plans a re-emergence in 2018. Sci-fi comedic antics ensues. 
Taken from Wiki: 

As a dark science fiction that plays with Finland's history of being oppressed by Russia, Iron Sky is a deliberate thematic throwback, a modern implementation of once-popular science fiction tropes that have fallen into disuse, such as Nazis in space.^[5][6]

As World War II comes to an end in 1945, Hans Kammler and other German scientists make a breakthrough in anti-gravity research. From a secret base in the Antarctic, Nazi spaceships are sent to the "dark side" of the Moon to establish the military base "Schwarze Sonne" (Black Sun).^[3] Their plan is to build a powerful fleet and return to conquer Earth. The film is set in the year 2018 when their descendants finally return.^[3][5]

The Helmer: Timo Vuorensola - Iron Sky (2012), Star Wreck (In the Pirkinning) (Video) (2005), Norjalainen Huora (Short) (1998).


The Casts: Julia Dietze, Christopher Kirby, Gotz Otto, Tilo Pruckner, Peta Sergeant, Stephanie Paul, Udo Kier. 


The Tagline: In 1945 the Nazis Went to the Moon. In 2018 They Are Coming Back. 


Release Date: TBD


The Prediction: Hmm. Finland making comedic sci-fi? From an unheard of (this side of the planet) ex-rocker director? With a casts of unknown except for uber icon Udo Kier? How will it fare you'd wonder, wouldn't you? But looking at the trailer it looks kinda intriguing. It has that 40's black and white murky look and feel about it, similar to the one seen with the sci-fic actioneer led by Thomas Jane "The Martian Chronicles" (the Jane dude does pretty weird stuff, check out his Dark Country directorial debut). Is it all good? The premise is definitely comedic. The intent is of course, not to make money because it doesn't suggest any sequels, big star casts, and Hollywood remake. Be that as it may, the moment it touches bluray I'm there! Great title though. 


Trailer

Wiki on Iron Sky

Official Site

Looper (2012)

I'm a big fan of Bruce Willis. Especially Action-Willis, as he kicks ass as how we want to kick ass. And I'll always want to see him continue kicking ass even in his 60s. 

The Skinny: "The plot  features JGL as a hitman whose victims are sent back in time from 30 years in the future. He knocks them off and, meanwhile, back in the future, there’s no trace of the crime. But then his future self, played by Willis, shows up, and things get difficult." - taken from www.slashfilm.com 


The Helmer: Rian Johnson - Terriers (TV) (2010), Breaking Bad (TV) (2010), The Brothers Bloom (2008), Brick (2005), Evil Demon Golfball from Hell (Short) (1995)


The Scribe: screenplay writer - Rian Johnson


The Casts: Bruce Willis, Gordon Joseph-Levitt, Emily Blunt


The Release Date: - TBD - somewhere in 2012


The Prediction: Action-Willis back in action with Inception star Gordon-Levitt as his younger, hitman self? How can it not go wrong? Its a nice twist to have Brick writer/director helm this futuristic actioneer and I'm putting my money on this one. This will definitely ROCK.


Not much news on this one yet as its still in post-production. More updates on this soon.  

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011)

Nowadays movie studios have no shame; not contend with sitting with the one film that made them money, they'd push for the 2nd, the 3rd, and now ... the 4th. Only because it makes economic sense for them, and silences the gaping mass into docile blitheringness so that they'd keep on watching even if installation number 47 has nothing more than a pair of buttocks hovering over a birthday cake. They'd watch that, and ask for more. What ever happened to the original idea? Or shame? 


The Skinny: Captain Jack Sparrow is back. This time in search of the fountain of youth, so's Blackbeard. And the very easy-on-them-eyes Penelope Cruz. 


The Helmer: Rob Marshall - Nine (2009), Tony Bennett, An American Classic (TV) (2006), Memoirs of a Geisha (2005), Chicago (2002), A Kennedy Centre Honors: A Celebration of the Performing Arts (TV special) (2001), Annie (TV movie) 1999. 


The Casts: Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, Penelope Cruz, Ian McShane, Kevin McNally, Sam Claflin, Keith Richards, Richard Griffiths


The Scribe: Ted Elliott - screenplay writer for: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003), Shrek (2001), The Road to Eldorado (2000), The Puppet Masters (1994), Aladdin (1992).


The Scribe2: Terry Rossio - screenplay writer for: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003), Shrek (2001), The Road to Eldorado (2000), The Mask of Zorro (1998), The Puppet Masters (1994), Aladdin (1992).


Release date: 19th May 2011 (Malaysia)


The Prediction: With the original scribers on board, there's nothing much that can go wrong with this. But aren't we a little bit tired of Depp as Sparrow? He runs the danger of being type casted but if the money's good, why not? But still, you can't but feel he's painting himself into a corner. A man of his talent should not think too much of pulling in the moolahs. Honestly. On the plus side for this film, there's the almost iconic Ian McShane and the very lovely Penelope Cruz. Makes you wonder if installation number five will draw in more Brit/Latino couples or other interesting matches. So, will it ROCK or will it SUCK?  I'd say it will RUCK. 


Trailer

Wiki on Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

Horrible Bosses (2011)

Bosses are evil right? Yeah. They're mean right? Oh yeah. They limit your happiness right? Hell yeah. They should be eliminated right? Double hell yeah. 


The Skinny: 3 disgruntled employees of really horrible bosses plot to kill them as a way of liberating them from a life without happiness. Clumsy murder attempts ensues. Chortle. 


The Helmer: Seth Gordon - The Only Living Boy in New York (2013), Horrible Bosses (2011), Breaking In (TV) (2011), Freakanomics (Documentary) (2010), Modern Family (TV) (2010), The Office (TV) (2009 - 2010), Community (TV) (2009), Parks and Recreation (TV) (2009), Four Christmases (2008), The King of Kong: A Fist of Quarters (Documentary) (2007), The Problem with Percival (Short) (2006), Fears of Clown (Short) (2004), Squirt (Short) (2002). 


The Casts: Jason Bateman, Jennifer Anniston, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Colin Farrell, Jamie Foxx, Kevin Spacey, Julie Bowen, Donald Sutherland, Lindsay Sloane. 


The Scribe: Michael Markowitz - screenplay writer: Kelsey Grammer Presents: The Sketch Show (TV) (2005), Its All Relative (TV) (2003 - 2004), In-Laws (TV) (2002 - 2003), Becker (TV) (1999), Comedy Central Presents: The N.Y. Friars Club Roast of Jerry Stiller (TV) (1999), Duckman: Private Dick / Family Man (TV) (1995 - 1996).


The Scribe: John Francis Daley - screenplay writer: Burt Wonderstone (2013), Horrible Bosses (2011), Bones (TV) (2011). 


Release Date: 8th July 2011 


The Prediction: This looks very promising actually - you have a great cast; a dream cast in fact. The kind of casts that can do serious, comedy and serious comedy. And the story line's pretty original and so very open to so many opportunities to expand in any direction. And, the helmer and writers do have a history of comedy. All in all the combination seems spot on. Looking at the trailer you can't help but be compelled to watch, especially Anniston, as the sexually harrassing dentist boss who's been hitting on her unsuspecting employee. Bateman is always a pleasure to watch, his straight man in horrible situation so like his role in Arrested Development. Its going to be good. Check it out. You will NOT be disappointed. (If you you do get disappointed, hell, at least you got to get out of the house to watch a movie, dincha?)


Official Trailer

Wiki on Horrible Bosses

Elite Squad 2 (2010) (Brazil)

I like movies which pushes me off my seat or makes me jump from my seat and punch the air with my clenched fist shouting obscene exclamations of approval and support. Not many movies does that to me. This one of the few movies that does. 

The Skinny: A sequel to the hugely successful Elite Squad (2007), the story continues with Colonel Nascimento, head of the 'skulls' or, BOPE, the Brazilian military police crack unit tasked with eradicating drug dealers and other hardcore cases where the normal police are just not up to doing it properly. He is ceremoniously kicked upstairs as sub-secretary to the Intelligence unit of the government's security agency, when a prison outbreak leads to a bloody outcome. At his new position he discovers corruption within the police and certain parts of the local government. Joining forces with his nemesis who is also his ex-wife's new husband, a representative of the local government who is also intent on uncovering and stopping corruption, both men face numerous obstacles and threats to their lives in achieving their objectives.

The Helmer: Jose Padiha - Elite Squad 2 (2010), Secrets of the Tribe (documentary) (2010), Garapa (documentary) (2009), Elite Squad (2007), Brazil's Vanishing Cowboys (TV documentary) (2003), Bus 174 (documentary) (2002).

Casts: Wagner Moura, Irandhir Santos, Andre Ramiro, Milhem Cortez, Maria Ribeiro, Seu Jorge, Sandro Rocha.

The Review: This is a sordid tale of dirty cops, street gangsters, corrupt politicians mixing it up and almost getting away with it, if not for the perseverance and tenacity of one man, and his liberal-minded counterpart. Its hardhitting, it hits you hard in the guts and it never misses its non-stop pace of edge-of-seat action. It is also a clarion call of anger from the director / writer / producer on the current situation in Brazil. Apparently some of the characters in this movie are based on real life personalities. If you've seen City of God (2002), a tale of street gangsters in Rio, this is the other side of that story, i.e. the cops and the politicians. This comes highly recommended. If you like hard hitting action, you cannot miss this. 

Wiki on Elite Squad 2 

Official Trailer 

The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn (2011)

The world is apparently divided into 2 groups of people: those who know and love the comic adventures of boy detective Tintin and his dog Snowy, and those who know nothing. If you're in the former category, then this amazing collaboration between Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson for an epic-looking 3D animation should bring cheer to your heart and cause you sleepless nights because the comic is finally coming to life on the big screen (forget all the movie adaptations done earlier). For those in the latter category, hang on to your hats!

The Skinny: Tintin meets Captain Haddock for the first time and emback on an adventure to locate the captain's ancestor's hidden treasure. 

The Helmer(s): Steven Spielberg - Robopocalypse (2013), The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn (2011), War Horse (2011), A Timeless Call (documentary short) (2008), Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Crystal Skull (2008), Munich (2005), War of the Worlds (2005), The Terminal (2004), Catch Me If You Can (2002), Minority Report (2002), A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001), The Unfinished Journey (documentary) (1999), Saving Private Ryan (1998), Amistad (1997), The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997), Schindler's List (1993), Jurassic Park (1993), Hook (1991), The Visionary (video) (1990), Always (1989), Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade (1989), Empire of the Sun (1987), The Color Purple (1985), Amazing Stories (TV series) (1985), Strokes of Genuis (TV series) (1984), Indian Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984), Twilight Zone: The Movie (segment 2) (1983), ET: The Extra-Terrestrial (1982), Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), 1941 (1979), Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977), Jaws (1975), The Sugarland Express (1974), Savage (TV movie) (1973), Something Evil (TV movie) (1972), Duel (TV movie) (1971), Owen Marshall: Counselor at Law (TV series) (Eulogy for a Wide Receiver) (1971), Columbo (TV service) (Murder by the Book) (1971), The Psychiatrist (TV series) (Pay for the Course, The Private World of Martin Dalton) (1971), The Name of the Game (TV series) (LA 2017) (1971), Rod Serling's Night Gallery (TV series) (Make Me Laugh, Night Gallery) (1969 - 1971), Marcus Welby, MD (TV series) (The Daredevil Gesture) (1970), Amblin' (Short) (1968), Slipstream (Short - unfinished) (1967), Firelight (1964), Escape to Nowhere (Short) (1961), Fighter Squard (Short) (1961), The Last Gun (1959).

Peter Jackson - The Hobbit Part 2 (2013), The Hobbit Part 1 (2012), The Lovely Bones (2009), Crossing the Line (Short) (2008), King Kong (2005), The Lost Spider Pit Sequence (Short) (2005), The Lords of the Ring: The Return of the King (2003), The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002), The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings (2001), The Making of the Frighteners (documentary) (1998), The Frighteners (1996), Forgotten Silver (TV movie) (1995), Heavenly Creatures (1994), Dead Alive (1992), Meet the Feebles (1989), Bad Taste (1987), The Valley (short) (1976).

The Scibe: Steven Moffat - writer: The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn) (2011), Dr. Who (TV series) (2005 - 2011), Dr. Who: Space and Time (TV movie) (2011), The National Television Awards (TV movie) (2011), BBC Proms (TV series) (2010), Sherlock (TV series) (2010), Coupling (TV series) (2007 - 2008), Dr. Who: Time Crash (TV short) (2007), Jekyll (TV series) (2007), Coupling (TV series) (2000 - 2004), Murder Most Horrid (TV series) (1994 - 1999), Comic Relief: Dr. Who: The Curse of the Fatal Death (TV movie) (1999), Privates (TV series) (1999), Chalk (TV series) (1997), The Office (TV movie) (1996), Joking Apart (TV series) (1991 - 1995), Press Gang (TV series) (1989 - 1993), Exam Conditions (TV movie) (1992), Stay Luck (TV series) (1990). 

Edgar Wright - Ant-Man (2014), The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn (2011), Scott Pilgrim Vs The World (2010), Spaced (TV movie) (2008), Grindhouse (Fake trailer - "Don't") (2007), Hot Fuzz (2007), Straight 8 (TV short) (2004), Edgar & Simon's Flip Chart (Video documentary short) (2004), Funkey Pete (Video short) (2004), Plot Holes: What Happened to Shaun When He Ran Off? (Video documentary short) (2004), The Man Who Would be Shaun (Video short) (2004), Simon's Cam (Video documentary short) (2004), Plot Holes: What Happened to Diane When She Left the Winchester? (Video documentary short) (2004), Plot Holes: How did Ed Get from the Cellar to the Shed? (Video documentayr short) (2004), Shaun of the Dead (2004), Asylum (TV series) (1996), A Fist Full of Fingers (1995).

The Casts: (the voices of) Daniel Craig, Andy Serkis, Simon Pegg. Nick Frost, Jamie Bell, Toby Jones, Tony Curan, Sebastian Roche, Mackenzie Crook, Daniel Mays, Gad Almaleh, Phillip Rhys, Mark Ivanir, Jacquire Barnbrook. 

Release Date: 23rd December 2011

The Prediction: This is a huge production with two of the world's heavyweights joining hands to build a comic legend on the big screen and assisted and supported by two current heavyweight writers. Obviously there's hope and expectation that this will do well at the box office. Just two things i hope they get right: the backstory and the spirit of adventure which underlies ALL Tintin books. How does it look? It looks very good. Why? Only because they're smart and they're playing it ultra-safe unlike the train wreck that was "Airbender". If this works, then prepare for the Tintin onslaught like never before.    

Wiki on Tintin - Introduction to who he is

Tintin Official Site

Youtube first look at Tintin images

The Silent House (2010) (Uruguay)

One thing you must know about this horror movie is that it was shot with only ONE TAKE using a photographic camera. i.e. the video camera was switched on without pressing the stop button for the entirety of the whole film. Which means that: there was no editing, no multiple camera angles and no stopping to erase and correct dialogues or acting style. It was done on one smooth unending take, which is the first for a horror movie.

The Skinny: Father and daughter construction/decoration team settles down for a night in an empty cottage to undertake some constructive work on the house. But somewhere in the middle of the night, strange knocking sounds start to emanate, culminating to the upper floors ... who or what could it be? Horror mayhem ensues. 

The Helmer: Gustavo Hernandez - The Silent House (2010)

The Scribe: Oscar Esteves, Gustavo Hernandez. 

The Casts: Florencia Colucci, Abel Tripaldi, Gustavo Alonso, Maria Salazar

Release Date: 27th January 2011

The Tagline: Real Fear In Real Time

The Prediction: Is this Blair Witch Project all over again? It could be, but with a much meatier punch in the gob. It also appears to be more focused, with an actual sighting of the source of the troubles, and blood, lotsa blood. Strangely enough, its also based on a true story, as www.imdb.com states: 

"The plot is based on a true story that happened in the late 40's in a small village in Uruguay. The film focuses on Laura, who, second by second, intends to leave a house which hides an obscure secret, unharmed. Laura and her father Wilson settle down in a cottage they have to renew since its owner will soon put the house up for sale. They will spend the night there and repair the following morning. Everything seems to go smoothly until Laura hears a sound that comes from outside and gets louder and louder on the upper floor of the house. Wilson goes up to see what is going on while she remains downstairs on her own, waiting for her father to come down."

This is something horror addicts should catch. I like it because it gives hope and promise to upcoming shoestring budget horror film makers, and the storyline is very compelling. Which once again states the obvious true good movies all depends on the scripting. Who or what is making those noises?

Offical Site  

Trailer (imdb.com)