Another interesting few days stuffed with movies and TV. First up is the new film 'Coraline' that seemed to come and go with no fanfare - which is a pity. On the surface, this is a beautifully filmed and well put together children's morality tale set in a very idealized world and a very off-centre alternative. Once you really sit and watch, you realize how dark and rather scary this other world is. I am sure that little children will enjoy the film, but I'm not so sure they will sleep all that soundly. There are genuinely frightening scenes and, although you know Coraline will triumph, it's always in the balance until the final act. I do recommend this movie to you as it works on both the adult and child levels.
If you hate spoilers - stop reading now. The eight weeks of the second season of Ashes to Ashes has come and gone and what a couple of months that was. I believe that this second series was superior to the first and the quality of the writing and acting was superb. The tension was pushed to the limit and even I was surprised and somewhat shocked by the ending. I really didn't expect a third series - I can't wait. It seems to me that the writers of the the US Life on Mars didn't appear to think it would be a success as, due to the 'Bobby in the shower' ending, no excuse for a sequel would be available. Just starting the fourth and final series of the 1970 classic 'Timeslip' and can't but reflect how intelligent the writing was and although the acting could be terrible in places, the story never faltered and gave many intriguing twists and turns. Where is this quality now - all we seem to have is rubbish from Disney starlets. To finish up - a very simple request - see 'Gran Torino' - it's probably one of the best movies I have seen in many years. Clint Eastwood's last acting job is a joy to watch. Just be aware of the swearing and racial terms used. The sensitive amongst you may be rather taken aback.
Comments