Foxcatcher (2014) - Review

Foxcatcher - Review (2014)

Director – Bennett Miller

Stars – Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo

Loews Theatre - NYC

As I walked into the Loews Theatre on Lincoln Square I was met with hundreds of teenage fans eager to see one of the many showings of ‘The Hunger Games – Mocking Jay part 1’. I realized that I had chosen perhaps the wrong day to see one of my most anticipated films of the year, Foxcatcher. After pushing through these fairly loud patrons I was met with the next task of finding the right screen, One would assume this would be easy, yet Loews theatre (although I liked it) decides to ‘name’ their screens instead of a slightly easier numerical system, so on I went to ‘Screen: Olympus’ The grand name matched the expectation I had for the movie in store and also its audience, once in this enormous room I was met with an almost full capacity turn out which was a surprise. This was one of the lower budget, slow burner dramas that acts as a polar opposite to many of its November weekend contenders. Although as again expected the audience consisted of a middle aged/elderly demographic that is always a good sign, you know these older people will shush people quicker than you any day.

Foxcatcher opened by showing old eerie footage of the titular character on ‘The Richest family in America’s estate’ each person dressed ready for the hunt and the last shot of a fox being released running for its life, cut to the opening credits. This somber and dark tone set the mood for the next 134 minutes, this is in no way a bad thing, it was exactly what this story needed and by the end it would ultimately stand as a metaphor for the events that took place on John Du Pont’s (Carell) Estate. What struck me the most was how amazing all three leads were, Ruffalo and Tatum had clearly spent hours learning how to wrestle like professionals and this showed when they were battling each other. The highest praise must be saved for Steve Carell who shows that comic actors are often the darkest when playing these roles, certain moments in his performance made you want to just clean yourself they were that unsettling. From his smile to the way he longs for his mothers approval even to the point he pretends how to coach the team. The narrative shows that Du Pont has ‘bought’ Mark (Tatum) and David (Ruffalo) Schultz as he is obsessed with wrestling and winning gold, and there is one amazing scene where we see Mark Ruffalo wrestling himself when he is asked if Du Pont is an inspiration and his mentor. It’s a sad story and one where the surprise strength comes from Channing Tatum’s performance, proving that he is one of the best serious actors around, he manages to shine with innocence until he sees Du Pont for who he is and the film quickly shifts gear into his hatred for John. Carell should win an Oscar for his performance along with his other comrades, he is outstanding in the way he shows on so many levels how disturbed and sad Du Pont is, whilst at times making us feel sorry for him.

Foxcatcher is an excellent film, one that I am looking forward to seeing again. Its only downfall is that it is sometimes static; in places it can be moved forward at a slightly quicker pace. However there is a supposed 4-hour long cut that I would love to see just for more moments between the cast. Its ending has such a mighty impact that everyone in the theatre was screaming and shocked, and when they left people were fiercely debating why Du Pont had done these things. Foxcatcher has already gained much praise, lets hope its leads get the same come awards season.

RATING: 4/5

Written by Joshua Tanner

Moustache Movie news - November Week 1

Moustache Movie news round up - November week 1

Jared Leto in talks to play ‘The Joker’ in future DC universe.

That’s right bat fans, Affleck replaced Bale and now Leto could replace Ledger. Its an interesting choice and one that could work, I’m sure Leto is getting a lot of grief via Twitter right now but lets remember that Heath Ledger got the same when he was chosen for The Dark Knight and that worked out pretty well.

                                             Matt Damon is returning as Jason Bourne.

Matt Damon has always said that the Bourne franchise and director Paul Greengrass went hand in hand, therefore he would not be returning for 2012’s ‘Bourne Legacy’. However since he and Greengrass must have been talking behind the scenes both have agreed to come back, we don’t know if it’s a one film deal or the start of a franchise re-boot, either way Bourne is back in 2016.

Toy Story 4

Another franchise thats renewing its run is 'Toy Story', seven years after 2010's latest outing which was a success at the box office and with critics. It makes sense for Disney to bring back one of its most beloved series, not that they need the money so this has to be one for 'the fans'.

Star Wars VII gets a title

Disney have stepped up the marketing campaign for the next trilogy in a galaxy far far away. Unveiling the title of the first in the next chapter as 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens'. Sounds good although no clues to what is in store for our heroes. Lets just hope watching an aged Luke, Leia and Han isn't as depressing as Kingdom of the Crystal skull.

'The Hateful Eight' gains Tatum

Remember earlier this year when Tarantino got pretty angry because his latest movie's script got leaked for all to see then cancelled the whole thing? Well he's cooled down since then and cast his Western ready for production early next year. The plot focuses on (you guessed it) eight menacing guys and gals who happen to stumble across each other in the old west in the midst of a storm and things get nasty. other cast members include Kurt Russell and Samuel L Jackson. (2015)

Christian Bale doesn't need 'Jobs'

Christian Bale has decided not to appear as Steve Jobs, founded of Apple inc in Danny Boyle's latest biopic. I saw Danny Boyle in Apple about 6 months ago and he didn't look to happy with his iPhone, probably how he feels round about now.

Interstellar (2014) Review

Interstellar (2014) - Review

Director - Christopher Nolan

Stars - Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway

Christopher Nolan’s latest adventure has been shrouded in secrecy since its initial inception (sorry) back in 2012. Its been a busy time for the Nolan brothers after the crowning success of their bat-trilogy they wasted no time at all writing and directing their next masterpiece. Bringing with them on board the Enterprise are seasoned bat-vets including Michael Cain and Anne Hathaway, with newcomers: Matthew McConaughey, Casey Affleck, Jessica Chastain and Matt Damon. This is a stellar (not sorry) cast and one, which was highly controversial at the time, as Matthew McConaughey was pre- ‘True Detective’ and so the world still thought of him as a torso that could vaguely act. All that has changed with his Oscar last year and so the mighty Interstellar landed without any bumps.

We open to see Copper (McConaughey) and his two children attempting to live in a world which is falling apart, the military has been disbanded and the schooling system teaches people that the moon landings where faked. With this in mind Cooper is then recruited to pilot a mission through a wormhole to find an inhabitable planet for the human race. Interstellar is undoubtedly the year’s best sci-fi, it manages to grip its audience every single minute of its almost 3 hour run time. Hans Zimmer’s score is predictably brilliant and provides the peril and release that we need. The most surprising thing about the movie is that it didn’t use any green screen, this is the most astounding element because it spends 80% of its time showing us new plants and solar systems which are not only beautiful but also draw dropping. Nolan is able to make sure the human element is intact throughout which is a feat in itself, there is a particular moment where Cooper receives video messages from his children which would render even Bane to tears. It manages to introduce a sort of villain late on and one which above everything else, just wants to go home. In this way the Nolan brothers have once again changed the game, they have boldly gone where ‘Gravity’ touched upon last year and made it into something unique and heart wrenchingly brilliant.

Interstellar has a heart in and amongst the science; it captures our imagination of once again being space explorers, whilst also giving us a look at relationships, which Nolan hasn’t done before. This film is ultimately a master class in filmmaking without being convoluted and dull. Although some may think it doesn’t match up on the scale of Nolan’s predecessors, Interstellar delivers every step of the way.

RATING 5/5

Written by Joshua Tanner

Remembering Robin - His greatest Roles

After we heard the sad news about one of the best actors ever to grace film we thought it fitting to sit down and re-watch his best.

                                                                5. Mrs Doubtfire

One of Williams' most comedic roles, after a bitter divorce he disguises himself as a female house keep in order to spend time with his children. Arguably one of his most iconic films, Williams was able to home his skills in order to make every moment on screen hilarious. Even pitted against Pierce Brosnan's swarve charm, Williams showed that even bond himself wasn't up to scratch for Mrs Doubtfire. As many people would agree it was one performance that remains deeply ingrained into our hearts.

                                                                       4. Jumanji

When I was a child I defiantly lost sleep after I had seen Jumanji. With a mixture of horror and dreamlike excitement I had never witnessed a film like it, neither had I enjoyed Williams more. He acted as a guide through the crazy board game from hell and his strong father figure meant that we would all choose him when we ever sat down to play scrabble. The carnage and chaos meant we had a bond with Williams and genuinely cared about his character and how he would manage to survive the carnage of Jumanji.

                                                               3. One Hour Photo

This one was defiantly a curve ball. After a strong Comedic career Williams decided to do something very different. One Hour Photo (if you haven't seen it) sees Williams as a lonely photo developer who, after processing a photo album becomes obsessed with a young suburban family. This is a very dark turn for Williams who was worried that it could damage his career, however after a reported 15 minutes critics forgot it was Williams on screen and loved his performance, something that he was very proud of. If you haven't seen it, its a masterclass in acting.


                                                                       2. Hook

This list wouldn't be complete without my personal favourite staring role of Williams. This is also one that needs no introduction. Not only did the film redefine our definition of Peter Pan but it also led to a cult following and people shouting 'Rufio Rufio RU-FI-OOOOOO!' in every public space imaginable. Williams gave a mesmerising performance in which we visibly saw a complete transformation from stern father and business man to the sword wielding, tight wearing legend. Get out the VHS player and prepare to cry world.

                                                             1. Good Will hunting

And this leads us to (in my opinion) Robin Williams best performance, he won an Oscar for best supporting actor in 1997 for the role and was hailed as one of the most versatile actors around. Williams acts as a therapist to Matt Damon's angry young man with a gift for mathematics, in their scenes together you can understand why Williams was a gifted actor. He was able to show how distraught he was over his wives death, whilst finding comfort in loving memories of her. One scene where he retells a story about her was completely improvised and heart wrenchingly real. This stands as a testament to an extremely talented and beloved man.

Rest In Peace Robin Williams. 1951 - 2014

Moustache’s Top Ten films coming before 2015 (10-6)

Moustache’s Top Ten films coming before 2015

10. Gone Girl (3^rd October)

Director: David Fincher

Stars: Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike

Plot: With his wife's disappearance having become the focus of an intense media circus, a man sees the spotlight turned on him when it's suspected that he may not be innocent.

Adapted from the hugely popular best seller of the same name, Gone Girl has already created Oscar Buzz. Its leads are well known and have already expressed their excitement at playing the roles. This intense thriller is sure to do well at the box office and with critics alike. If you've read the book you know you’re in for a treat.

                                                              9. Fury (14^th November)

Director: David Ayer

Stars: Brad Pitt, Shia Labeouf, Logan Lerman

Plot: April, 1945. As the Allies make their final push into European, a battle-hardened army sergeant named 

Wardaddy commands a Sherman tank and her five-man crew on a deadly mission behind enemy lines.

Seeing Brad Pitt back in WW2 in something you don’t want to miss after one of his best roles to date in Inglorious Bastards. This time round he has a tank and Shia Labeouf so you know it’s going to be pretty good. Judging by the trailer it’s going to be action packed but let’s hope there’s enough room for a story line and not just 2 hours of tanks and explosions...actually never mind that sounds good.

                                                         8. Whiplash (13^th November)

Director: Damien Chazelle

Stars: Miles Teller, J K Simmons

Plot: A young musician struggles to make it as a top jazz drummer.

Okay not much to go on here but trust us it’s going to be a good’un. After seeing early footage a few months back it’s safe to say Whiplash is going to be one of the best indie films this year. After doing the rounds at the major film festivals Whiplash triumphed over contenders, its dry humour and chemistry between J K Simmons Psychotic music teacher and Teller’s boyish defiance holds its own amongst a sea of new comers this year.

                                                        7.  The Interview (10^th October)

Director: Evan Goldberg, Seth Rogen

Stars: James Franco, Seth Rogen

Plot:  Dave Skylark and his producer Aaron Rapoport run the popular celebrity tabloid TV show "Skylark Tonight." When they discover that North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un is a fan of the show, they land an interview with him in an attempt to legitimize themselves as journalists. As Dave and Aaron prepare to travel to Pyongyang, their plans change when the CIA recruits them, perhaps the two least-qualified men imaginable, to assassinate Kim Jong-un.

So earlier this year Kim Jong-un declared this film an act of terrorism against North Korea, and it comes as no surprise that Franco and co are openly slating Kim and his buddies amidst arguably North Koreas craziest year. All in all it sounds like it’s going to be great, another film using the same faces that have worked so many times before, why not? I doubt anyone else would want to handle this subject and start WW3. But in any case you know Rogen and Franco wont be pulling any punches when it comes to highlighting everything nuts about North Korea. Bring it on Kim.

                                 6. The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armys (17^th December)

Director: Peter Jackson

Stars: Martin Freeman, Ian Mckellen, Benedict Cumberbatch

Plot: The Company of Thorin has reached Smaug's lair; but, can Bilbo and the Dwarves reclaim Erebor and the treasure? And, if so, can they hold on to it?

You know the drill by now, with the third and final instalment of Peter Jackson’s (Arguably over drawn out) Hobbit coming to the end. This one’s a safe bet though, you can rely on Jackson to make sure you are entertained for 3 hours with battles and gold until it’s time to go home and re-live the good old days of LOTR on VHS, ah memories.

The Raid 2 (2014) Review

The Raid 2 (2014) – Review

Director – Gareth Evans

Stars – Iko Uwais, Yayan Ruhian, Arifin Putra

After the monumental success of The Raid, Gareth Evans had a huge amount of pressure in delivering an equally matched second sequence. After gaining prestige at a variety of film festivals and making its name into the list of the top ten best ever action films (IMDB) Evans showed that he had the dedication and knowledge to make a masterpiece.

The film begins merely 2 hours after The Raid Finishes. Not wanting to waste a minute of its two and a half hour long running time, we are delivered straight back into the intense narrative where Rama (Uwais) is tasked to go undercover in order to infiltrate and take down crooked cops and crime syndicates. Throw into the mix a series of equally nasty and intriguing enemies along the way (notably ‘Hammer Girl’ and ‘Baseball Bat Man’) and this makes for one hell of a ride. As expected the film spends most of its time providing us with some of the best action sequences shot on camera. As Rama travels through prison earning respect to working as an enforcer for the mob each character begins to develop and fit neatly together intricately. Evans films each sequence in a special way, he’s able to provide tension and excitement in each shot without making the easy mistake of adding 90’s punching effects to every scene. The brutal violence is matched by the talent of each member of the cast. The characters are clearly individual and well rounded with several sub plots playing out alongside the main action, Evans’ is able to grip us whilst also ensuring that we genuinely want to see a resolution to Rama’s story. The only complaint possible is that there is too much action (right!?) obviously this cannot be a bad thing as it’s something that makes the film. However after several all out brawls it all begins to feel slightly over saturated. Rama battles about 20 people, wins, repeat. It’s not until a few more of these do we get something fresher, with the first film relying on a mix of fire fights and fist-y cuffs the second act of The raid 2 brings this back into play with a Jason Bourne style car chase, and finishing off with several gruelling and gory fight scenes that are the equivalent of about four video game boss battles.

The Raid 2 is every bit as exhilarating as its predecessor. Although it doesn’t have the freshness of The Raid it certainly has a heart. Gareth Evans has clearly nurtured it all the way to the finish line and it has paid off. The film is another trophy to add to his collection, it’s smart, incredibly fast-paced and violent in every meaning of the word. This isn’t any old Saturday night action movie; it’s a cinematic milestone in what’s hopefully just the beginning of a new wave of epic action cinema. It just goes to show that new directors and an unheard of cast can deliver time and again; all we have to do is wait two more years for the final instalment, bring it on.

RATING 5/5

Written by Joshua Tanner