Diverse trio of films
By Rama Gaind
CONDENSED from a BBC television series, State of Play is a taut thriller which stars Russell Crowe as an investigative reporter who gets embroiled in a political scandal that centres on his former college mate, Ben Affleck, whose personal life is in total disarray.
Rachel McAdams is the eager reporter who is greedy for a ‘scoop’ story.
Helen Mirren is the curt editor of the Washington Globe and Jason Bateman also has an important role to play.
Featuring excellent acting, the film has been well written and director Kevin MacDonald has done a superb job in holding the reigns.
Complete with mocking commentary on US administration, State of Play will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
THE suburban gamut of life involving family and children makes for a special viewing in My Year Without Sex.
Life’s rollercoaster ride with sad and happy moments is outlined perfectly by Australian writer/director Sara Watt (Look Both Ways).
After mother of two Natalie (Sacha Horler) collapses with an aneurysm a few days after her husband Ross’s (Matt Day) 39th birthday, the shock is very real, but everyday living has to go on. Domestic situations have to be tackled, despite personal hardships.
In a year that sees upheaval and recovery, this family handles disruption with calm ingenuity that’s not only touching, but captivating as well.
IT’S a rather distressing thought that young children today could well associate important historical figures with outrageous portrayals as seen in Night at the Museum 2.
However, this is one sequel, directed again by Shawn Levy, which could have the youngsters clamouring to visit the museum – only to be disappointed when they learn that some exhibits are not ‘alive’.
The original Night at the Museum was imaginative, had a mischievous premise and was most amusing. This follow-up is on a large scale, full-on and all the exhibits are talking!
These include Abraham Lincoln, Rodin sculptures, aviator Amelia Earhart, astronauts, cavemen, bobble-headed Einsteins, evil Pharaoh Kahmunrah, Ivan the Terrible, Napoleon and Al Capone.
There’s a lot happening at the world’s biggest museum – the Smithsonian.
There are also some precious moments watching classic statues, paintings and characters come to life, namely, Oscar the Grouch and Darth Vader. Even watching those planes take to the skies gives the film a lift.
While the film is cluttered with funny characters, heroes and villains and special effects galore, there are also some appealing touches.
Ben Stiller does not appear comfortable in the role he reprises.Robin Williams is back as Teddy Roosevelt, but isn’t given too much to do and Owen Wilson and Steve Coogan stumble their way through silly dialogue and situations.
Faring much better is Amy Adams as the feisty Earhart, Ricky Gervais as Larry’s old boss and Jonah Hill as a bumbling guard.
