BritMums monthly film reviews

I know it can be sometimes feel impossible to get to the cinema when you have small children but by the time you’ve read this once a month, no doubt a lot of the movies will be available on DVD or you might just make the movie theatre. Here’s my round up on what’s hot and what’s not.

The Help

Based on the best selling novel by Kathryn Stockett this Oscar nominated picture and winner of Best Supporting Actress for Octavia Spencer is a must see. Set at the start of the civil rights movement in 60’s Mississippi it gives a voice to the women who had none-the help-the maids of the White middle classes. Young journalist Skeeter (Emma Stone) encourages these women to give their perspective on racist life and wins a commission to publish her book. I have not wept as much through any other movie. Ever. Poignant, moving, vital cinema at its finest. Already a classic.

RATING 9/10

Jack and Jill

This new comedy from Adam Sandler surprised me when I caught it at the cinema. It is as entertaining as it is wacky. It was half term and the children’s laughter reverberating through the theatre was utterly contagious. With cameos from Al Pacino and Johnny Depp (yes really) there’s something for everyone in this madcap comedy. Jack (Sandler) is an advertising guru who puts his larger than life twin Jill (Sandler) up for the Channuka holiday. Despite wanting rid of her as soon as possible to start, when Al Pacino (playing himself) takes a shine to her, Jack decides to use this to his advantage encouraging Al to front an ad campaign for him. All does not go to plan of course but you’ll be relieved to hear, there’s a happy ending and the twins remember the importance of their ‘wombie’ bond. Bless.

RATING 7/10

Muppets

As an all time Muppets fan, I literally skipped to the cinema when this came out. A witty, intelligent, laugh out loud movie, which entertains throughout. The (other) world’s biggest Muppets fan Walter, his brother (Jason Segel) and girlfriend (Amy Adams) must help reunite the Muppets who have gone their separate ways after discovering oilman Tex Richman (Chris Cooper)’s desire to drill for oil under their beloved Muppets Museum. Once back together, The Muppets hold a live telephone to raise the $10m they need to beat the oil baron-kidnapping Jack Black on the way. For all kids, big and small the world over: see this movie, transport yourself back to the 80’s and have the laugh of your lifetime. I was singing in the aisle!

RATING: 9/10

Rampart

Woody Harrelson back to his best as complex and bent cop in LA on a downward spiral in need of salvation. Gripping, stirring, a cinematic master class, this is an unconventional character study of a man trying to punish the wrong in the only way he knows. Also starring Cynthia Nixon and Anne Heche as his ex wives. Will give you a slice on unseen LA life, in a film, which breaks generic boundaries. Despite needing to be half an hour shorter, highly recommended viewing.

RATING: 9/10

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Much celebrated British actor Gary Oldman plays George Smiley, former espionage veteran forced out of retirement to find a double agent within. A complex, often confusing film, which would benefit from two views, was compelling despite the baffling moments. This is the antithesis of Bond movies- a bleak cold war set movie made to make you think.

RATING: 7/10

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

A cast of heavyweights from Dame Judi Dench to Bill Nighy, this is an original film taking a group of lonely British retirees to India to find themselves-a gap year later in life in you like. Despite the hotel being guilty of false advertising, it begins to charm them in ways they didn’t expect. Also starring the loveable, haphazard Dev Patel as Sonny, the young hotel owner whose relationship reflects a very modern India with South Asian characters who defy stereotypes. It is overly long though going at as slow a pace as some of its leads and not worth a cinema visit in my opinion but more of a quiet Sunday viewing on DVD.

RATING 6/10

Follow Vicki on Twitter @HonestMummy and @VickiFilm

About Vicki Psarias

Vicki Psarias Vicki Psarias is founder and author of one of the most popular parenting blogs in the UK, Honest Mum and sister style blog Mummy's Got Style Vicki is also a multi-award winning TV Director and Filmmaker. Her website is www.vpsarias.co.uk. Twitter: @HonestMummy.

• Mail
|
• Web
|
• Twitter
|
• More Posts(25)