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Showing posts from January, 2022

Film Review: Spencer

 I think it is only fair to begin by stating, quite categorically, that I have been an avid admirer of Kristen Stewart's work since I was sixteen. The first film I saw her in was Speak. It was already different from all the other high school themed films at the time (and since, if I'm being honest) as it was not about a nerdy kid who took off her glasses and went to the prom and fell in love with the most popular guy at the school. It was about a girl on the outside, with a hidden trauma and struggling to just survive what a nightmare high school is. For me, I both empathised with the character and was singularly impressed by Ms Stewart's performance. Seventeen years later, I am still impressed and I'm still an admirer of Ms Stewart's growing body of work, both independent and big studio productions.  Especially and including this most recent addition to the list, where Ms Stewart completely disappears from the screen for nearly two hours and we are presented with D

Film Review: Ghostbusters Afterlife

 Well, it took its time, but finally we have a Ghostbusters film that honours the original and manages to stand on its own two feet as a pretty damn good film. The main impression I got, was that of respect. They had fun, yes, but they were careful and polite with the source material and it definitely shows.  The writing is solid, and takes a honest step forward with the ideas of the first, while introducing some fun new characters. While the special effects have definitely taken quite a few (hundred) steps forward, they haven't gone overboard. They've retained the feel of the original - same car, just with a more advanced engine.  It's a special little story, with a whole lot of heart and it definitely tugs at the heartstrings - I definitely got a little teary at some parts. I won't spoil it for you, go and see the magic for yourself.