The Book Thief

Summary:

While subjected to the horrors of World War II Germany, young Liesel finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with others. In the basement of her home, a Jewish refugee is being sheltered by her adoptive parents.

Plot:

Since I already read this book, I can’t really say much about the plot. One of the great things about this movie is that it didn’t chánge or add anything in the story, it only left some parts out (which is completely understandable). The movie isn’t extremely fast-paced, and knowing what happens at the end made it a little boring to watch, but that is only because I already knew the story, not because I thought it was a bad movie. I liked that they kept a little of the narration by ‘Death’, which was one of the things I liked best about the book.

Characters:

I loved the acting, especially the younger actors, they were really great and seemed to understand the essence of the characters very well. Rudy was my favourite character in the book, and I really liked his portrayal in the movie as well. Liesel is a wonderful character, and Hans and Rosa are both interesting and funny. Overall the characters weren’t exactly as I imagined them, but they were very well handled.

Cinematography:

Beautiful. The colours and lighting create mood and atmosphere, and there wasn’t one scene where I didn’t notice how gorgeous the overall look of the movie was.

Who should watch this:

PG-13, obviously, since this is a WW2 movie, there is a lot of violence. The violence is not extremely graphic, but it is intense and quite scary. If you enjoyed the book then I suggest watching this. If you haven’t read the book, don’t watch it quite yet...GO READ IT! RIGHT NOW!

My rating:

I was not sure how people could make a movie out of this book, but somehow they managed it. It wasn’t nearly as good as the book, but it was a really great movie. 5/5

The Fault in Our Stars

Summary:
Hazel and Gus are two teenagers who share an acerbic wit, a disdain for the conventional, and a love that sweeps them on a journey. Their relationship is all the more miraculous given that Hazel's other constant companion is an oxygen tank, Gus jokes about his prosthetic leg, and they met and fell in love at a cancer support group.

In One Word: Heartbreaking

Plot:

When I read this book I didn’t know if I liked it or not. I feel the same about this movie, but for different reasons (I’m still not sure why I felt that way about the book). It’s really hard to say you loved a movie that is so gut-wrenchingly sad. But you do. It doesn’t make any sense really, to love a movie like this. As far as staying true to the book goes, I think this movie did a pretty good job, I can’t remember exactly what happens in the book, but overall I didn’t notice anything that was really different. The story is beautiful and tragic, and there’s not much more you can say about it.

Characters:

This is where the movie really got to me. I liked the characters in the book, I thought they were ‘real’ and normal, but I didn’t fall in love with them. This movie made me fall in love with them, which made it extremely hard to watch them suffer. Hazel is incredible without realising it, she’s funny and smart and different, without trying too hard. And Gus...Gus is sweet, funny, easy-going and yet a very deep character. Their chemistry is great, they click and you totally get why the one falls for the other.

Cinematography:

Very good, the colours bring out the different moods in the story, but it’s not extremely noticable and it doesn’t distract from the story.

Who should watch this:

If you liked the book, or just need a good cry then I definitely suggest this. If you’re looking for a light, happy movie then this is not the one for you.

My rating:

Rarely do I stay sad after a sad movie has ended. However, this one broke my heart. 5/5

Quote:
I fell in love with him the way you fall asleep: Slowly, and then all at once.

Turbo

Summary:

After a freak accident infuses him with the power of super-speed, Turbo kicks into overdrive and embarks on an extraordinary journey to achieve the seemingly impossible: competing in the world's fastest race, the Indianapolis 500. With the help of his tricked-out streetwise snail crew, this ultimate underdog puts his heart and shell on the line to prove that no dream is too big, and no dreamer too small.

Plot:

This was a really sweet story, but I feel like it’s all been done before, the racecars, the animal who wants to be something unusual and gets a human to help him. It could have been really original if Cars and Ratatouille hadn’t already exsisted. That being said it was really cute in a clichéd type of way. It had its funny moments, and it’s just a fun movie, without trying too hard to be deep or emotional.

Characters:

The characters are a bit eccentric, all of them, but they’re lots of fun. I liked Turbo a lot, he’s a very likable guy...uhm snail...and his snail buddies are all quite funny, if a little generic. I liked the humans as well, they were a little overshadowed by the snails (haha, they’re overshadowed by snails...no you’re right it’s not funny...), but they were still interesting enough.

Cinematography:

Pretty good, the animation is colourful and inventive, and doesn’t try too hard to be realistic, the music isn’t exactly my style, but it fit the feel of the movie well.

Who should watch this:

If you’re looking for a nice, clean movie for your kids this is definitely one I’d recommend. Seeing as how they like watching the same movie over and over again they won’t mind that it’s kind of similar to many other kids’ movies out there, and if they loved Cars or Ratatouille, and you’re tired of watching that, try this one... However, don’t expect to love this if you’re an adult, this is not that type of kids’ movie.

My rating:

While this was a sweet story, it didn’t have the same entertainment value that the previously mentioned movies did in my opinion, which is sad because it’s a great premise. The characters and animation were good, but honestly, I probably won’t watch this again.  3/5

Quote:

Turbo: Are you crazy?

Whiplash: Yeah, I'm crazy! What made you think I was sane?

The Hobbit-The Desolation of Smaug

The Hobbit Part 2

Summary:

After successfully crossing over (and under) the Misty Mountains, Thorin and Company must seek aid from a powerful stranger before taking on the dangers of Mirkwood Forest-without their Wizard. If they reach the human settlement of Lake-town it will be time for the hobbit Bilbo Baggins to fulfill his contract with the dwarves. The party must complete the journey to Lonely Mountain and burglar Baggins must seek out the Secret Door that will give them access to the hoard of the dragon Smaug. And, where has Gandalf got off to? And what is his secret business to the south?

Plot:

So I didn’t have a lot of good expectations from this storyline, mainly because of the first movie and because they’re dragging a 400 page book out into three movies, but I was pleasantly surprised. I’d heard many good things about this movie, but I assumed it was for the cinematography. The story follows the book pretty well, but unlike most book-to-movie adaptations they have added parts instead of not including some. I really liked the fact that they added Gandalf’s story, which was not included in the book. You only hear about what he was up to in the first part of the Lord of the Rings books. Also, it was fun watching this movie, after reading the Lord of the Rings: the Fellowship of the Ring and knowing what was going to happen. The action was way more intense than in the first movie (which mainly consisted of the dwarves and Bilbo walking). I didn’t like some of the parts they had changed, but the parts that they kept the same were pretty cool.

Characters:

My favorite part of this movie is definitely the elves. They are beautiful, graceful, slightly cold and stand-offish, and I found them fascinating to watch. Bilbo kind of disappeared in the first part of the movie, but got his chance in the spotlight in the end. I didn’t like Thorin’s mean and selfish portrayal in this movie, he lacked the royal, slightly proud, but still good qualities that he had in the book, and just came of as a pompous and self-centered person/dwarf. Smaug didn’t look like I imagined him, I feel like they could’ve added more gems and gold to his chest, as Tolkien described in the book. Overall the wonderful elves balanced out some of the mistakes they made with Thorin, and I enjoyed the characters.

Cinematography:

Wonderful, some parts were better than others, but overall it was great. The colors were rich, the orcs and spiders etc. looked real (and pretty creepy) and the Smaug was magnificent (and really, really big).

Who should watch this:

PG-13, mainly for violence. It’s not bloody or gory (except for some orcs getting their heads chopped off), but it is pretty frightening. If you thought the first one was good, but lacked action you should see this one. If you liked the Lord of the Rings movies, then you might like this. I suggest skipping the first one if you’re familiar with the story.

My rating:

I really liked this movie, and I really hope the last one lives up to it, because I don’t know what they’re going to use for a storyline in that one. It’s not a perfect adaption of the book, but it’s pretty good. So, 4/5.

Quote:

Where does your journey end? You seek that which would bestow upon you the right to rule. A quest to reclaim a homeland, and slay a dragon!

The Host

Summary:

When an unseen enemy threatens mankind by taking over their bodies and erasing their memories, Melanie will risk everything to protect the people she cares most about, proving that love can conquer all in a dangerous new world.

Plot:

I had already read this book before I watched the movie, and one thing I can say about it is that it follows the storyline pretty well. It didn’t have all the scenes of the book in it, obviously, but it stayed true to the basic storyline. It’s not a bad story, or idea, but I feel like they could’ve done a lot more with it. The acting wasn’t the best, and the story felt a little stilted. However, there were some moments that made me smile, it didn’t make me laugh or cry, but it was interesting enough that I didn’t get too bored.

Characters:

I didn’t understand why Wanda (the invader, alien thing) had to speak aloud for Melanie (the human) to hear her. As far as I remember this was not the case in the book, and it looked a little stupid, the character talking to herself all the time. I get that it would’ve been hard to know which was which if they were both just in her head, but it bothered me a bit. Most of the characters felt a little flat. There wasn’t one in particular I really connected with. Wanda is a bit too good to be true, although that is the way of the alien species. None of the characters truly stand out.

Cinematography:

Okay, it’s not wonderful, and I feel like they could’ve done so much more. But, it’s not bad.

Who should watch this:

PG-13, for some sensuality and violence. If you like dramatic teen movies, or enjoyed the book you may like this. However I feel like the book has more to offer. Don’t expect too much.

My rating:

I didn’t hate this movie, but I didn’t love it either. I would’ve liked a bit more from the overall look of the movie, and the acting could’ve been better. 2/5

Quote:

Ian: Strange world isn’t it?

Wanda: The strangest.

I'll be reading the book again, and I'll link that review here!

The Way Way Back

Summary:

Shy 14-year-old Duncan goes on summer vacation with his mother, her overbearing boyfriend, and her boyfriend's daughter. Having a rough time fitting in, Duncan finds an unexpected friend in Owen, manager of the Water Wizz water park.

Plot:

This is a cute story. It’s pretty simple and straightforward with no major twists or turns. It had it’s funny moments and it’s slightly sadder ones. It’s basically a comedy with a bit of a deeper message hidden underneath the jokes. Most of it is pretty predictable, but I don’t think the point of this movie was the story. I think it was the characters. So I’m not going to say anything else about the plot.

Characters:

When you first meet the main character you feel very sorry for him. Then he smiles at a random guy in a car behind theirs and you fall in love with him. He is basically a boy who is extremely shy, doesn’t say much, and is pretty awkward as far as social situations go. He is the most relatable character in the movie which was probably the filmmakers' intent. There are a couple of young girls who are also pretty normal, but most of the other characters are completely crazy. Only two of the adults can be described as sane, that would be Duncan’s mother (who is very damaged) and Owen’s love interest. The rest of the adults are completely insane, and most of them are pretty hilarious.

Cinematography:

Good, the colours change along with Duncan’s mood. When he’s happy there’s bright colours and lights, when he’s down it becomes more gray-toned and dark. It helps set the mood. It’s not Oscar-material, but you can tell that the directors and other film-makers put quite a bit of thought into it.

Who should watch this:

(PG-13) Some language, brief drug material and mild sexual content. The story might also be a little hard for some of the kids to follow and they probably won’t get most of the jokes. If you want a comedy that will make you laugh, but that will still be a bit deeper than just the jokes, this is a good one.

My rating:

I really liked this movie. I thought it was funny, the acting was pretty good and it didn’t bore me once. So 4/5

Quote:

Duncan: How long have you been working there?

Owen: Oh, the park? Um, I've always been there. Ever since I was a small Cambodian child. Of course, that was after 'Nam. I was in the sh*t. Then I joined the circus to become a clown fighter. I know about 46 ways to kill a clown. I hate clowns. I'm kidding except for the part where I really do hate them.

Gravity

Summary:

Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) is a brilliant medical engineer on her first shuttle mission, with veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) in command of his last flight before retiring. But on a seemingly routine spacewalk, disaster strikes. The shuttle is destroyed, leaving Stone and Kowalski completely alone - tethered to nothing but each other and spiraling out into the blackness.

Plot:

This is a very suspenseful movie. Although I’m not sure if it will be as good if you don’t watch it in cinemas or in 3D. In my opinion, it won’t be the same on a TV/computer screen. While the story is good, there comes a moment when you start expecting bad things to happen, and it doesn’t surprise you anymore. This makes it just a little tedious, and less thrilling. However, it is still a very good storyline, and it’s handled very well, considering how little the directors really had to work with in terms of setting and characters.

Characters:

There aren’t a lot of characters in this movie. All of them are quite memorable, but none as much as Matt Kowalski (George Clooney), he is very witty, and overly optimistic, and he lightens the mood of the film considerably, without him it would have been extremely depressing. The main character Ryan Stone (yes, Ryan is a woman) grows a lot during the movie and is a very relatable character, I feel, for many people.

Cinematography:

Exceptional. With only one or two exceptions, you really feel as if you are in outer space yourself. You can lose yourself in the amazing angles and beautiful photography and computer effects used in this film.

Who should watch this:

(PG-13) Mainly because of violence, suspense and language, but I also feel that this movie would either bore or upset younger viewers. If you love space, suspense, or just very well-made movies, you should go watch this one.

My rating:

I really enjoyed this movie, even though I’m not a huge fan of movies that make me nervous. I don’t think I’ll be watching it again, simply because I feel that it wouldn’t have the same effect without the big screen and the 3D, but I definitely liked it a lot. 4/5.

Quote:

Matt Kowalski: Houston I have a bad feeling about this mission...

Mission Control: Please elaborate.

Matt Kowalski: Well, it  reminds me of a story...

Watch the movie to hear the story! 

Mrs. Doubtfire

Summary: 
After a bitter divorce, an actor disguises himself as a female housekeeper to spend time with his children held in custody by his former wife.

Plot:

This is a great story of a father who would do literally anything to be with his kids. It’s hilarious in all the right places and yet serious when needed. The story is inspiring, funny and very entertaining.

Characters:

This movie shows of all of Robin Williams’ talents as an actor-his natural talent, humor and his incredible talent with voices and accents. The characters are generally very likable, although they’re not perfect. They’re relatable and yet not boring, and I thought they were all wonderful.

Cinematography:

Good, for a movie that was made in 1993. Actually very impressive if one keeps that in mind. It never distracts from the story.

Who should watch this:

(PG-13) mainly for some rude humor, references to mature content and language. Any fans of Williams should have watched this already. If you enjoy movies that are different, yet relatable I would definitely recommend this one.

My rating:

I really, really enjoyed this movie. It made me laugh, and I started to care for the characters. 5/5

Quote:

[Trying to get false teeth out of glass]

Mrs. Doubtfire: Carpe dentum. Seize the teeth.

Racing Stripes

Summary: 

An abandoned zebra grows up believing he is a racehorse, and, with the help of his barnyard friends and a teenage girl sets out to achieve his dream of racing with thoroughbreds.

Plot:

A very funny, heartwarming story about believing in yourself and chasing your dreams, no matter what other people (or horses) say. While there’s been many movies like this one, none of them centred around a zebra. This is a very sweet story with a great message.

Characters:

This movie has some great characters, funny, serious, sweet, you name it. The farm animals are the best, with the motherly goat ‘Franny’ and the little Shetland pony, Tucker (Dustin Hoffman) who is Stripes’ mentor. Then you get a pelican called ‘Goose’, a very stupid chicken, ‘Reggie’, and two very funny flies that sing. The main character ‘Stripes’ is great, not perfect, but self-assured. The humans, Channing (Hayden Panettiere) and her father are also very nice, you find yourself hoping they will make the right choices.

Cinematography:

Okay, the animals ‘talking’ weren’t handled as well as it could have been, although this movie was made a while ago, so it’s understandable. The rest was very well done.

Who should watch this:

(PG) for very mild rude humor, the content is quite clean. Fans of horse movies, or animal stories in general. If you prefer a deep, serious or ‘adult’ movie, don’t watch this. It’s quite immature, but fun and great for just relaxing.

My rating:

I really like this movie, it’s not perfect or my favourite, but I like it so…3/5

Quote:
Franny: What are you?
Stripes: I don't know.
Tucker: We can rule out "genius"

Ramona and Beezus

Summary:

The adventures of young Ramona Quimby and her big sister Beezus come to life in this all new film based on the best-selling books by Beverly Cleary. Ramona's vivid imagination, boundless energy, and accident-prone antics keep everyone she meets on their toes. But, her irrepressible sense of fun, adventure and mischief come in handy when she puts her mind to helping save her family's home.

Plot: 
This is a very cute movie that’ll have you laughing and crying. Funny and sweet, I really do like it. The story kept me interested and you start rooting for the characters. It’s colourful and playful and romantic, you almost feel as if you were in a little girl’s imagination yourself.

Characters:

The characters are great, especially the main character Ramona (great acting by Joey King), who is unintentionally funny and mischievous. She keeps getting into scrapes and just makes you laugh. Her older sister Beezus (or Beatrice, played by Selena Gomez) is slightly mean towards Ramona, but not a bad sister, all things considered. She’s quite sweet and just starting to fall in love and grow up etc. All the other characters are extremely likable.

Cinematography:

Good, very colorful. This movie has a happy atmosphere, almost like a theme park or something. It’s just colorful, slightly ridiculous and fun.

Who should watch this:

I think this is a  movie the whole family will enjoy. There are no mature content, and it’s just a fun, relaxing watch. If you want something serious or thought-provoking you probably won’t like this, but great for a family movie night.

My rating:

I really like this movie, it’s something I would watch when I just want something positive and uplifting to take my mind of things. 4/5

Quotes:
Beezus: Ramona, you're your own person. You don't care about coloring inside the lines.
Ramona Quimby: It really depends on the picture.

Eragon

Summary:
In his homeland of Alagaesia, a farm boy happens upon a dragon’s egg-a discovery that leads him on a predestined journey where he realised he is the one person who can defend his home against an evil king.

Plot:

Now, as someone very familiar with the book’s story I found this movie to be slightly disappointing. Many of my favorite parts had been removed from the story, and I know movies can only be so long, but I felt they had tried too hard to fit everything in. As a movie on it’s own it’s also slightly irritating that they never made the sequel, since the ending seems to hint at one. I found that some of the parts they skipped over should have been included and shown in more detail. Eragon and Brom's journey is almost not shown at all, while it is a huge part of the book. The whole story just felt rushed, like they were skipping over details about the characters and story that made it a little hard to understand.

Characters:

The characters were well portrayed mostly. Especially Eragon, who is shown as a brave, but slightly impulsive boy. I was very disappointed with Arya’s character, she’s become a whole different species, which just doesn’t make sense to me at all. One of my favorite characters in the book Murtagh is shown only a little, and they don’t say much about him. Saphira is probably my favorite in the movie, her voice is incredibly rich and exactly how I imagined it to be.

Cinematography:

Good, especially considering that this is not a very recent movie. Saphira and all the other special effects are well done. The movie is slightly darker than I imagined the book to be, but it works.

Who should watch this:

If you don’t like reading (what are you doing on my blog??? Just Kidding) I suppose this is the only alternative, but for fans of the book, don’t waste your time. If you like fantasy movies, or thought the book was too long, then maybe you’ll like this more, emphasis on the maybe. I personally won’t reccomend it to anyone.

My rating:

I was disappointed with most of this movie. Someone told me the ending wasn’t well handled, but I still expected more from the story. 1/5

Quote:
That's the spirit - one part brave, three parts fool.-Brom

Read my review for the books 'Eragon', 'Eldest' and 'Brisingr' here!

Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron

Summary:

The mustang stallion Spirit grows up to proudly succeed his father as leader of the Cimarron herd in the unspoiled Wild West. When 'civilization' reaches Dakota territory, naive curiosity gets him caught by cowboys and sold to the US Cavalry. Its method of training by breaking a horse fails utterly on him. Just when the colonel intends to shoot Spirit, the equally indomitable captured young Lakota brave, Little Creek, escapes on his back. He also tricks him to a coral with his beloved mare, but shows respect and wins some trust. As the railroad arrives, the Indian village is wrecked and Spirit gets captured for use as a draft-horse. When the stallion realizes this project threatens his whole world, he escapes and unleashes the fury of a force of nature, ultimately teaming up with Little Creek.

Plot:

I’ve loved this story ever since I was little. It’s a story of not giving up, of fighting for what you believe in, and horses, all of which make it incredible. I love the passionate nature of this story, how every part is extremely emotional. You don’t have slumps where nothing is happening. Incredibly sad, with some light bits of humor thrown in when appropriate, this movie made me cry and made me smile.

Characters:

I adore the characters in this movie. The main character-the horse ‘Spirit’ is incredibly head-strong and feisty. The gentle horses ‘Rain’-spirit’s love interest and Spirit’s mother are great. The Indian, Little Creek, who connects with Spirit in a way that no other human could. They’re all incredible. Especially considering that, even though Spirit is the only horse that ‘talks’ in the movie, you can still tell the characteristics of all the others.

Cinematography:

This is quite an old movie, and the animation isn’t quite up to today’s standards, but I could tell that the producers and directors put a lot of thought into this movie. The character’s facial expressions and body language are beautifully portrayed, and you don’t really notice that they don’t look completely realistic. Also the music in this movie gives me chills every time.

Who should watch this:

(PG) as some younger kids may be frightened by the way the horses are treated by some of the humans. Anyone who liked movies like ‘the Lion King’ etc., that make you cry and laugh, watch this one! I think this movie will appeal to all ages.

My rating:

I really love this movie, it being one of the few animated ones that make me cry. I love the soundtrack and I love…just everything about this movie really. 5/5

Quote:
And so I grew from colt to stallion, as wild and as reckless as thunder over the land. Racing with the eagle, soaring with the wind. Flying? There were times I believed I could.

The Lorax

Summary:
The latest Dr. Seuss book to get the Hollywood treatment revolves around The Lorax, who would like to fix the pollution in his town caused by a greedy industrialist. Help arrives in the form of a young man desperate to impress his girlfriend by producing a real tree, not the plastic ones they have in town. This sets up the battle between the young man, The Lorax, and the evil mayor.

Plot:

I found this to be a very sweet and funny story, although I would’ve preferred a little subtlety with the whole ‘save the earth’ theme. It made me laugh, had me slightly sad, and it got the message across. It was cute.

Characters:

I really want a singing fish! Anyways…the characters were also incredibly cute, and quite funny. They were fun, upbeat, well most of them anyway, and they sang. So they were great. Is it just me or does the ‘bad guy’ looks like that dressmaker from ‘the Incredibles’? Just wondering.

Cinematography:

Okay, I loved the way the ‘paradise’ place at the start was portrayed, the colors were used well throughout this film. If you’ve seen ‘Horton hears a Who’ you would know what to expect. Not the greatest animation, but somehow it works.

Who should watch this:

(PG) This movie is definitely aimed towards kids, there are no mature content at all, not even crude jokes. I don’t think anyone over the age of 10 would really love this movie, although I did like it (yes I am over 10).

My rating:

I liked this movie, only now I really want a singing fish, and I don’t know where to find one, so that’s quite sad… 3/5

Quote:
It's not about what it is. It's about what it can become. Just like... you're not just a boy.

Invictus

Summary:

The inspiring true story of how Nelson Mandela joined forces with the captain of South Africa's rugby team, Francois Pienaar, to help unite their country. Newly-elected president Mandela knows his nation remains racially and economically divided in the wake of apartheid. Believing he can bring his people together through the universal language of sport, Mandela rallies South Africa's underdog rugby team as they make an unlikely run to the 1995 World Cup Championship match.

Plot: 
A truly inspiring film about Nelson Mandela played by Morgan Freeman (who else?), including some of the most epic and nerve wrecking rugby matches in world cup history. This is an incredible story that will make any South African proud of their heritage. This story is about equality, forgiveness and being the greatest you can be.

Characters:

As they were based on real people, the characters in this movie are very much flawed, even Mandela isn’t shown as being perfect. I think the characters in this movie were very well handled, although the ‘rugby players’ didn’t look much like rugby players at all. The acting was good, Morgan was absolute perfection as Mandela, Matt Damon's (as Francois Pienaar) accent was also spot on.

Cinematography:

Good, it is quite interesting in fact. Much of the movie is shot almost like an excerpt from TV news, making it seem more authentic. The more undocumented events were shot very well. The costumes etc. were all very well done. None of this ever distracts from the story, it only adds to it.

Who should watch this:

(PG L) the only mature content is the language. Anyone who is South African or who is interested in South African history should watch this movie. I would also recommend it to anyone who wants to be inspired, or who really likes rugby.

My rating:

I really liked this movie. It kept me interested. 4/5

Quote:
Brenda Mazibuko: You're risking your political capital, you're risking your future as our leader.
Nelson Mandela: The day I am afraid to do that is the day I am no longer fit to lead.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Summary:
Freshman Charlie is a loner until he falls under the spell of the free-spirited Sam and her fearless stepbrother, Patrick, in this adaption of Stephen Chbosky's best-selling novel.

Plot:

How do you even begin to describe this movie? It encompasses the feeling of being a teenage outcast perfectly, describes the hardships and trials of being slightly crazy in a positive way, it makes you feel infinite (quote! :D). This story will have you laughing and crying, it will change you, have you thinking for days on end. It’s touching and emotional and brilliant. It tells an incredibly sad story in a way that will make you feel happy to be alive. It’s all about acceptance, accepting people who are different, accepting the situation you’re in, and, perhaps most importantly, accepting yourself for who you are.

Characters:

The characters in this movie are brilliant. They’re real, but different, and I fell in love with every single one. The main character ‘Charlie’ (Logan Lerman) is an incredibly loving, innocent freshman boy who has a slight mental illness, after going through a lot of trauma when he was younger. Patrick (Ezra Miller) is a gay senior, who hides behind being funny so he doesn't show how much he’s hurting. And then there’s Sam, who is played by Emma Watson (who deserved every single nomination and award she got for this role). My personal favorite character, she is just a stunning person, who doesn’t realize how incredible she really is. All the characters in this movie are wonderful, they are relatable, but interesting.

Cinematography:

Incredible, it doesn’t distract from the story, but when you look for it you realize that every moment was perfectly planned and shot. Everything from the costumes to the lighting is outstanding.

Who should watch this:

(PG10) There are quite a lot of mature content, language, drug use etc. and I personally don’t think anyone under 13 will understand this movie. The mature content is never used just to be crude,  it makes the story more realistic. Someone who likes memorable movies that they won’t forget and that will have an impact on them, watch this one. If you prefer something light-hearted and relaxing, this isn’t one I would suggest for you.

My rating:

This is probably one of my new favorite movies, I’ve rarely watched something that had such an impact on me (as you can see from my rave review, I’m sorry). I rarely enjoy ‘teenage’ movies, as they always seem to focus on the negative aspects of being a young person. This one, however, takes those negative aspects and uses them to have a positive impact. 5/5

Quote:
Right now we are alive, and in this moment I swear we are infinite.

Read my review for the book here!

People Like Us

Summary:

While settling his recently deceased father's estate, a salesman discovers he has a sister whom he never knew about, leading both siblings to re-examine their perceptions about family and life choices

Plot:

I really liked this story, it was well paced and interesting and it had a great ending. There was enough mystery and suspense to keep it interesting, and enough emotional moments to keep me engaged, but not crying the whole time I was watching. There were some humorous moments, that didn’t distract from the main storyline, but still managed to keep the mood a little more positive. Essentially this is a movie about forgiveness, family and love.

Characters:

The characters in this movie are very human. They make mistakes (a lot of them), and they get hurt. They are interesting and sometimes slightly stupid. They make you laugh and they make you cry. I found all the characters in this movie interesting, if not exactly likable. My favorite character was definitely the young boy, he was incredibly funny and really likable, although quite naughty.

Cinematography:

Good. It wasn’t exceptional, but for this type of movie you want the emphasis on the story and the characters, you want the viewer to forget it’s a movie. While the photography and lighting and everything helped set the mood it did so without you really noticing until you look for it.

Who should watch this:

(PG13)There are some mature content, like violence and some language etc. People who like movies that has a bit of humor and a bit of sadness will like this.

My rating:

I really enjoyed this movie, it was cute and sad and funny all in one. 3/5

Quote:
I hope you never have to know what it's like to love someone and then find out you're not enough. I was trying to protect you from ever feeling that.

Upside Down

Summary:

Adam and Eden fell in love as teens despite the fact that they live on twinned worlds with gravities that pull in opposite directions. Ten years after a forced separation, Adam sets out on a dangerous quest to reconnect with his love

Plot:

This wasn’t an incredible story, but the whole idea of the different worlds is so interesting and strange that it doesn’t even seem to matter. The story was cute, but simple, and if it wasn’t for the great setting it would probably be one of the most boring stories ever, but the setting throws in a wonderful twist that makes it all worthwhile.

Characters:

The characters in this movie are quite likable, but not very memorable, but again the setting seems to make up for this. There really isn’t very much to say about the characters.

Cinematography:

Exceptional. This is what made the movie. Everything about it was beautifully portrayed. The lighting and colors etc was very well handled throughout and the two different worlds’ moods were shown quite clearly.

Who should watch this:

(PG 13), there are some very mild mature content and violence. Anyone who likes movies about other worlds will probably like this too, for example 'Avatar', but without the cursing and the violence. Also anyone who can appreciate great cinematography should definitely watch this just for that.

My rating:

3/5, the whole idea made it worthwhile, but the story and characters could’ve been better.

Quote:
Up-top, they always win, And down-below, we always fail.

Les Misérables

Summary:
Prisoner 24601, known as Jean Valjean, is released from prison and breaks parole to create a new life for himself while evading the grip of the persistent Inspector Javert. Set post-revolutionary France, the story reaches resolution against the background of the June Rebellion.

During the French Revolution, convict Jean Valjean is released on parole by prison guard Javert after serving a nineteen-year sentence. He is offered food and shelter by the Bishop of Digne, but later steals the Bishop's silver dishes after everyone is asleep. He is caught by the authorities, but the Bishop states that he gave the convict the silver and demands that Valjean be set free. Ashamed of his crimes against the generous holy man, Valjean breaks his parole and vows to start a new honest life under a new identity

Plot:

This was a very good story, a bit violent for my taste, but I get that it was necessary. It was heartfelt, and although it was quite long it didn’t bore me at all. The romance was great, although a little Romeo and Julietesque (not a word, I know...), and I loved Jean Valjean’s whole story. The music was fantastic, the acting superb.

Characters:

Wonderful! Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) is a marvelous character, he is caring and humble, but not perfect. Fontine (Anne Hathaway, who totally deserved that Oscar!) is also a great character, you can feel her every emotion. Javert (Russel Crowe) is the ‘bad guy’, but he truly believes everything he does is right, his character fascinated me personally. Cosette (Amanda Seyfried) is a pretty, innocent girl who falls in love for the first time, a wonderful contrast to most of the others, she is like a ray of sunshine the darkness of the rest of the film. Also the child Cosette (Isabelle Allen) was incredibly cute, and what a wonderful little actress! Marius Pontmercy (Eddie Redmayne) is Cosette’s love interest, as well as Éponine’s (Samantha Barks), he is a revolutionary, who sides with the poor people, although he comes from a wealthy family. I personally think Éponine was my favorite character, she was the most relatable for me. Then there is the Thénardiers (Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen) a pair of thieving innkeepers who were intended to provide some humor in this otherwise tragic tale. They were funny at times, although the humor was quite crude.

Cinematography:

Beautiful, stunning! This is a photographic masterpiece. The darkness that could be seen throughout the movie, and the lights at the end made the atmosphere in this movie so much more intense. The costumes and make-up were very well done as well. The singing were a little off-key at times, but considering the fact that the actors were singing live in many parts, this is completely understandable.

Who should watch this:

(PG13), there is quite a lot of mature content especially violence and crude humor. I’m not sure what I would compare this with, only know that it’s going to make you cry, so if you don’t like that you won’t like this.

My rating:

I really liked this movie, it was just a very well-made film, with wonderful acting and a good storyline. Like I said before, I’m not a huge fan of violent movies, but it was necessary. I’m also not a fan of crude humor, so that part bothered me a little…3/5

Quote:
I had a dream my life would be so different from this hell I'm living!

Sorry this was such a long review, it seems that the length of my reviews depend on the length of the book/movie!

The Little Mermaid

 Summary:
A mermaid princess makes a bargain with an unscrupulous sea hag in order to meet a human prince on land.

Disregarding her father's order to stay away from the world above the sea, she swims to the surface and, in a raging storm, rescues the prince of her dreams. Determined to be human, she strikes a bargain with the devious sea witch, Ursula, and trades her fins and beautiful voice for legs. With her best friend, the adorable and chatty Flounder, and her reluctant chaperone Sebastian, the hilarious, reggae-singing Caribbean crab, at her side, Ariel must win the prince's love and save her father's kingdom - all in a heart-pounding race against time!

Plot:

I love this story, I always have. It’s just so beautiful and fun and sad and wonderful! I love musicals, or any movies with music, and this is one of my favorites of Disney. The story is so well known, I don’t really know what else to say about it.

Characters:

Oh, I love the characters in this movie! Flounder, the wimpy best friend. Sebastian the crabby, singing crab. Ariel, the headstrong, beautiful, innocent mermaid. King Triton, stern, but loving. Ursula, the evil sea-witch. Her two pets, the eels! The French cook! The prince (no need to say more)!!! They’re all marvelous.

Cinematography:

This is quite an old movie, so the animation isn’t quite as good as today’s, but I like the old feel of it. The best part as far as the animation go is probably the scene where they sing ‘kiss the girl’. The fireflies and the different birds, makes it wonderfully romantic.

Who should watch this:

(A), is the official rating. There is no adult content, although Ursula might scare some little kids (she scares me! :P). Lovers of all the Disney princess classics, or any Disney classics really should have watched this already! Perfect for little girls (like me).

My rating:

I love this movie, because I’m a kid and a hopeless romantic (heehee). 4/5

Quote:
Scuttle: I haven't seen this in years, this is *wonderful*!
Ariel: What is it?
Scuttle: A banded, bulbous snarfblatt.
Ariel, Flounder: Ohhh.

Finding Neverland

 

Summary:
Award winners Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet, Dustin Hoffman and Julie Christie star in this magical tale about one of the world’s greatest storytellers and the people who inspired his masterwork “Peter Pan”. Well-known playwright James M. Barrie (Depp) finds his career at a crossroads when his latest play flops and doubters question his future. Then by chance he meets a widow (Winslet) and her four adventurous boys. Together they form a friendship that ignites the imagination needed to produce Barrie’s greatest work!

Plot:

I enjoyed this movie’s story very much. It was well paced and I didn’t get bored with it once. It’s one of those movies that makes you think a little, it’s story seems simple, but when you think about it a bit you realise it’s much more complex than you thought. Also this is based on true events, which makes it seem all the more magical.

Characters:

I loved J.M. Barrie’s character (although I might be a little biased, since I am a huge Johnny Depp fan) he was fun, but still serious when necessary. He wasn’t too perfect, which is always good in a main character. Characters who doesn't make mistakes just irritates me. I also really like Peter (the inspiration for Peter Pan, played by Freddie Highmore) who is a little boy, bitter after losing his father and just an all around wonderfully interesting character who develops awesomely during the movie. The other characters were all excellent and the acting every bit as superb as can be expected from these actors/actresses.

Cinematography:

The photography of this movie was great. The colours were rich and made the story seem magical. Definitely a very well-made movie. The costumes, make-up, sets etc. were all beautifully picturesque.

Who should watch this:

 (PG 13) this is the official rating. There aren’t any mature content, but I don’t think young children will enjoy this film, I think it might bore them or they might not understand it. There is also the issue of death, it is brought up quite a lot during this film.

My rating:

I loved this movie! (And Johnny’s English accent) I loved how magical not only Peter Pan is made, but also the magic surrounding J.M. Barry’s life. 4/5

Quote:
J.M. Barrie: Write about your family, Write about the talking Whale.
Peter Llewelyn Davies: What Whale?
J.M. Barrie: The one that is trapped in your imagination, desperate to get out

See my review on the book Peter Pan here!