The Woman in Black Review: Another Harry Potter All Over Again?

The Woman in Black is an exciting horror film to watch mainly because Daniel Radcliffe is finally getting rid of himself from a decade of Harry Potter films done in the past. While many fans wonder if Radcliffe was indeed able to deliver a different character to the film (much like how Robert Downey, Jr. was able to separate Iron Man from Sherlock Holmes), director James Watkins is confident that Radcliffe’s role as Arthur Kipps is a perfect transitional character from Harry Potter. The Woman in Black is based on Susan Hill’s 1983 novel of the same title. Aside from the ever-impressive CGI effects delivered by Hammer Productions, the movie adaptation offers a fresh approach…

The Grey Review: Real Props Anger Wildlife Advocates

It’s not a werewolf movie, but it has a pack of wolves in it (no Taylor Lautner for the girls, though). Instead, Liam Neeson stars in another epic action adventure film The Grey set in the freezing climate of Alaska. While most scenes with the wolves were generated through CGI effects, the production team wasn’t able to avoid controversy after environmental activists learned that they bought four wolf carcasses from a local trapper two of which were used as props whereas the remaining two served as supper for the cast to eat (really? wolves for dinner?). Environmental groups also became irate as the movie portrays wolves in a bad light leading a group of wolf…

The Darkest Hour Review: Great Concept Bad Execution

The Darkest Hour is the first alien invasion film in a long time that tries to steer clear of plots and effects that have been overused in so many movies before it. Director Chris Gorak gives us a new kind of alien and a fresh location that add to the excitement and suspense delivered. CGI effects are good and look better than the effects of a lot of bigger budgeted films. By using Moscow as the location, Gorak needs to be given credit for finally getting all the aliens out of New York or L.A. and the panoramic views and scenery are first rate. The plot of Darkest hour is simple yet effective. Aliens attack…

Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol Review: Tom Cruise Is All Action!

The fourth Mission Impossible segment called Ghost Protocol successfully puts Tom Cruise back on the radar again and solidifies his action playing skills. Over the top stunts that will have you cringing, if you are afraid of heights, and a beginning that looks like it would fit in as a climactic ending on most films make this movie a perfect Holiday treat for any action fan. Tom Cruise reprises is his role as Ethan hunt with a flair for the dramatic that most 49 year old men would cringe at, or at least be jealous of. This installment of the series brings a fresh perspective with the addition of a new comedic side thanks to…

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy Review: Better Than Bond & Bourne

More than just a spy flick, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is a hardcore espionage thriller. As a big fan of the Bourne series and not an avid reader upon which this film is based (by John le Carre), I was doubtful about whether I would like this film. Like the usual Bond and Bourne films of late, I thought I’d miss all the sultry long-legged women, crazy car chase scenes, and all the bombs and bullets blasting off. I was wrong. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy starts off in the dead of night where a failed British Intelligence mission goes terribly wrong in Bulgaria. It’s the height of the Cold War, and with such a huge…