Halloween is here, and I've got the perfect list of movies, just for you dear readers...

Today is Halloween. Now, if you haven't got anything to watch this evening, below is a list of my top ten (in no particular order), horror films with trailers (to really send a tingle down you're spines!). From slashers, to psychological dramas; they're all in there. Read on, if you dare!


10) "Psycho" (15)
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Starring: Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh and Vera Miles.
Rated: 15.
Running time: 106 minutes.
Out now on DVD and Blu-Ray.

This all time classic took audiences and critics completely by surprise, when it hit theaters in 1960. "Psycho" follows the story of a secretary Marion Crane (Janet Leigh), who after a spell of embezzlement with her employer,  decides to hide inside a secluded hotel; run by the disturbing Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins).


Including the infamous 'shower scene', "Psycho" still stands up as one of the most chilling films in cinema history.

9) "28 Days Later" (18)

Director: Danny Boyle.

Starring: Cillian Murphy, Christopher Eccleston, Naomie Harris and Brendan Gleeson. 

Rated: 18, for containing very strong language, strong violence and horror.

Running time: 108 minutes.

Out now on DVD and Blu-Ray.

In 2002, Danny Boyle (one of Britain's most famous directors) delivered his fresh take on the zombie apocalypse, with his cult classic "28 Days Later"; a film that really is the definition of frightening.

Set on London's streets, "28 Days Later" tells the story of Jim (Cillian Murphy) who after waking from a coma, realises that the world is not the same as it once was. 

Que gore, zombies and plenty of intense sequences; "28 Days Later" really is one of a kind. 

8) "The Shining" (15)

Director: Stanley Kubrick.

Starring: Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall and Danny Loyd.

Rated: 15 for containing strong violence and language.

Running time: 114 minutes.

Out now on DVD and Blu-Ray.

Arguably Jack Nicholson's finest performance, "The Shining" see's him portray Jack Torrence, a writer who accepts a job to take care of a hotel along with his wife and child. After a snow-storm, the family are trapped inside the hotel and must battle the demons within.

Genuinely frightening, "The Shining" is a dangerous force to be reckoned with. 

7) "Evil Dead 2: Dead By Dawn" (15)

Director: Sam Raimi. 

Starring: Bruce Campbell, Sarah Berry and Dan Hicks.

Rated: 15.

Running time: 81 minutes.

Out now on DVD and Blu-Ray.

A film that needs no introduction, "Evil Dead 2: Dead By Dawn" is regarded as not only one of the greatest horror films all time, but also a cult classic.

A trip to a cabin in the woods, takes a complete turn for the worst, as Ash (Bruce Campbell) and his girlfriend Linda (Denise Bixler) must face off hordes of possessive spirits, if they are to survive the night. 

Mixing extreme amounts of gore, with classic deadpan humour, "Evil Dead 2: Dead By Dawn" is a genuine classic. A must see, for anyone and everyone. 

6) Dawn Of The Dead (2004 version)

Director: Zack Snyder.

Starring: Sarah Polley, Ving Rhames and Jake Weber.

Rated: 18, for containing strong bloody violence and horror.

Zack Snyder ("Man Of Steel" and "300") proves his directing worth, in possibly the best film of his career so far. Undeniably exciting and enjoyable, the zombie genre is given a new lease of life once more; in an often funny satire.  

When a group of survivors take shelter inside a seemingly abandoned mall (to escape a plague of zombies) they realise, that to survive; they must work together.

A fantastic film that not only multitasks on a grand scale, but becomes better, through repeat viewings.   

5) "Slither" (15)

Director: James Gunn.

Starring: Nathan Fillion, Michael Rooker and Elizabeth Banks. 

Rated: 15 for containing, strong violence, gore and language. 

Running time: 92 minutes.

Out now on DVD and Blu-Ray.

James Gunn's directorial debut, wasn't for everyone. It was intended for a select audience, one that was able to connect with it's fantastic film references and subtle satire.

The film follows the destruction of a small American town, after it is invaded by mutated-like slugs which turn people into zombies.

Sounds silly? That's because it is. "Slither" is silly and proud, but still delivers on scale, gore and fantastic laughs. An indie classic. 

4) "Sunshine" (15)

Director: Danny Boyle.

Starring: Cillian Murphy, Rose Byrne, Chris Evans and Mark Strong. 

Rated: 15 for containing, strong violence, horror and language. 

Out now on DVD and Blu-Ray.

Set in the near future, a team of scientists from around the globe, are sent on a dangerous mission to re-start the sun. But, danger is lurking around the corner...

A superb piece from the "Trainspotting" director and a return to decent Sci-Fi. Not to be missed.

3) "Shaun Of The Dead" (15)

Director: Edgar Wright.

Starring: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Kate Ashfield and Dylan Moran.

Rated: 15 for containing, strong comic violence and language. 

Running time: 95 minutes.

Out now on DVD and Blu-Ray.

When Shaun (Simon Pegg) is dumped by his long-term girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield), he decides to get his life back in order. Unfortunately, whilst doing just that; the zombie apocalypse arrives. It's now up to Shaun to step up his game, or end up as dinner for some hungry, hungry zombies.

Insanely smart, sincere and a heck of a lot of fun, "Shaun Of The Dead" is terrific.

2) "Zombieland" (15)

Director: Ruben Fleischer.

Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone and Woody Harrelson. 

Rated: 15 for containing, strong language, bloody comic violence, sex references and nudity.

Another "Shaun Of The Dead" style comedy-horror, which is a fantastic reminder, that America can make decent comedies, when they want to. 

"Zombieland" follows the story of a shy student, who is making his way to Ohio, to reach his family; after the events of the zombie apocalypse. 

Like "Shaun Of The Dead", expect tonnes of gore and fantastic laughs.

1) "Seven" (18)

Director: David Fincher.

Starring: Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman and Gwyneth Paltrow.  

Rated: 18 for containing, strong bloody violence, horror and threat.

Running time: 122 minutes.

Out now on DVD and Blu-Ray.

Possibly Fincher's best film, "Seven" delivers an outstanding thriller/horror that is smart, tense and fiendishly brilliant. To tell you anymore would spoil it's many surprises, so just take a look for yourself!

Thanks for reading and happy viewing! 

Written by Scott Gentry.

Scott Gentry reviews "The Zero Theorem", the latest film by Sci-Fi genius, Terry Gilliam; as part of the BFI (British Film Institute) Film Festival 2013.

"The Zero Theorem" (TBC)
Director: Terry Gilliam.
Starring: Christoph Waltz, Matt Damon, Mélanie Thierry and David Thewlis. 
Rated: TBC
Running time: 107 minutes.
Release date: 2014.

Set in the near future, Qohen Leth (Christoph Waltz) is constantly sat at his computer, working. Never able to enjoy his life, Qohen is constantly waiting for a phone call, which he believes, will describe the purpose of his life. When reassigned to work on 'The Zero Theorem' program at work, he begins to realise what life is really about.  


Every year the BFI (British Film Institute) organises a brilliant event, named the British Film Festival. At the festival, film is honoured in spectacular form, with films being submitted from all over the world, including Britain.

Unfortunately (due to unforeseen circumstances) , I was only able to watch one film. I'm just glad it turned out to be, "The Zero Theorem".

Terry Gilliam ("Life Of Brian" and "The Brothers Grimm") has been directing films since 1968. Often though of (by me anyway!) as the director who defines, 'cult' films and nicknamed Captain Chaos, Gilliam constantly surprises audiences with audacious pieces of cinema; which really do entertain. 


In recent years, Gilliam's works have (arguably) become slightly worse, than his more fresh and original films, such as "Brazil". From mystical beasts to a story following a traveling theatre company, Gilliam just hasn't delivered a fine piece, for at least fifteen years. Thankfully, we can put those mistakes behind him; as, "The Zero Theorem" is a fantastic ride.

Approaching this story-line with stunning visuals and and an addictive style, "The Zero Theorem" has a plot which may not explore it's ideas to a further degree, but entertains extremely well.



The film is quite daring, because it talks about exploring the purpose of life and the effects that it might leave on certain people. Nothing quite like his past efforts, Gilliam approaches this piece lightly and lets the film develop slowly as it goes along. 


The cast are exceptional, with Christoph Waltz delivering an often comedic performance, that frequently mirrors the portrayal of his character (Dr. King Schultz) in "Django Unchained". Mélanie Thierry plays Bainsley (A future type of prostitute) in an entirely believable role, which often proves how good an actress she really is. Matt Damon also acts well with his short, but pivotal role as 'Management' in a commonly bewitching cameo. 

Verdict

Gilliam has delivered a long-awaited return to Sci-Fi, which repeatedly bewilders, in that classic Gilliam style, which is set to dazzle the least likely of Sci-Fi fans. 

7.5 stars out of 10.

Written by Scott Gentry.

Film Rating Key

1-2 stars out of ten = Awful.

3-4 stars out of ten = Average.

5-6 stars out of ten = Good.

7-8 stars out of ten = Excellent.

9-10 stars out of ten = Amazing.

A review of "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2", written by Jon Petre.

Hey everyone! Today's review is going to be filled with meaty food puns, and for once I'm not going to be making Swiss cheese of this baloney! It gets worse...

I went to see "CWACOM2" with a slight/large sense of apprehension, as (unsurprisingly) it's a kids' movie, and I'm neither a child nor a parent. If I had gone on my own, then maybe the mothers would've kept a large circle of empty seats around me, and I'd end up on a list. Or rather, a larger circle, as due to the fact that I was wearing a hoodie that obviously meant that I was going to kill their 2.5 conservative children.


The movie jumped straight in-I suppose it had to with such a short run-time. I did like the fact that Chester of the company, Live Corp was basically an evil Steve Jobs; that fact was basically the bread and butter of the movie. Flint has been given his dream job, working at Live Corp; but his fantastical machine that makes giant food has gone haywire (again) and is making living food animals. I won't give up much more, as personally I think it really takes the biscuit when a review ruins a movie.

I'll stop now.
I always thought that there was a really nihilistic undertone to the movie-eventually with that machine the water cycle will run out. If not soon, at some point. Also, if all vegetables ca
n now live and think, then what do people eat? I don't think the producers thought that one through. But then again, the movie is for eight year olds.

All in all, it was quite a good film, compared to some of the tripe they pedal out for the yung'uns these days. It was a nice escape and the story-line in general was good, I liked the way that the "CWACOM" movies have the theme that children should base their self-worth not on their looks but on their personality. My only qualm came from the short runtime and the fact that Mr. T wasn't returning in this one. Either way, his character was very funny. It's hard to find something wrong with a movie that's for kids--if it's not entertaining, what's the purpose? Come on, you can cook and eat 'em if you wanted to. You know what, I don't have to impress you.

Unlike my Morlockian counterpart, I will continue the fabled five star system. Of five, I would give "CWACOM2" a four stars out of five.

****

(4 Asterisks out of Five)

Film Rating Key

1-2 stars out of ten = Awful.

3-4 stars out of ten = Average.

5-6 stars out of ten = Good.

7-8 stars out of ten = Excellent.

9-10 stars out of ten = Amazing.

Written by Jon Petre

Scott Gentry reviews the riotous comedy "Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa", the latest feature length film from the Jackass crew.

"Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa" (15)
Director: Jeff Tremaine.
Starring: Johnny Knoxville and Jackson Nicoll.
Rated: 15 for containing, strong language, sex references and crude humour.
Running Time: 92 minutes.
Released in Cinemas: 23rd Of October 2013.

"Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa" follows the story of Irving Zisman (Johnny Knoxville) and his grandson Billy (Jackson Nicoll) as they travels across America to meet Billy's father, whilst getting into hilarious and unimaginable situations along the way.


Ever since I saw the trailer for "Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa", I became extremely excited for it's release date. Why? Well, as a fan of the "Jackass" TV series, I had grown to love the fictional character of Irving Zisman, and always wondered whether they would consider the possibility; of an adaptation for the big screen. 

Thankfully, my wish was granted. However, "JP:BG" is not perfect by any standards. It's story and script are just as weak as two planks of balsa wood. The jokes in the film aren't always strong enough to carry it's weak narrative for it's one-hour, and thirty minutes running time. 

Verdict
Despite missing key ingredients, "JP:BG" does include (some, but very few) shining moments, which are surprisingly funny. Part diamond in the rough, but at times quite dire, "JP:BG" is just a piece of throwaway fun. 

5 stars out of 10.

Written by Scott Gentry.

Film Rating Key

1-2 stars out of ten = Awful.

3-4 stars out of ten = Average.

5-6 stars out of ten = Good.

7-8 stars out of ten = Excellent.

9-10 stars out of ten = Amazing.

Foreign language films are not normally my preferred genre of film, but "Tsotsi" is quite the exception; writes Scott Gentry.

"Tsotsi" (15)
Director: Gavin Hood.
Starring: Presley Chweneyagae, Kenneth Nkosi and Terry Pheto.
Rated: 15, for containing strong language and violence.
Running time: 90 minutes.
Out now on DVD.

"Tsotsi" follows six days in the life of our titular character (Presley Chweneyagae), who inadvertently receives a baby after a robbery which goes terribly wrong.

Much like "City Of God" (an equally good Brazilian gangster film), "Tsotsi" is an open invitation into the lives of gangsters. From the opening scene, the audience is introduced to a group of friends, but the focus here is not on them, but on Tsotsi. Tsotsi is in fact an in-depth character study of one man's struggle, to connect properly with society; due to a childhood trauma. 

The film often presents itself as gritty and does not shy away from the upsetting aspects of the slums of Johannesburg. Despite a modest budget of $3,000,000, "Tsotsi" still manages to deliver a film that has the quality of a regular hollywood film without the average budget. The script is obviously Oscar material from the offset, not mixing in comedic elements too often but always keeps to it's original tone. 

The soundtrack is superb, including tracks from some of Johannesburg's best artists, Paul Hepker and Mark Killian compose the music well, setting an often dark tone for the  toughest of sequences.

Despite having a virtually inexperienced cast list, they all act amazingly well. Presley Chweneyagae delivers a first rate performance as an emotionally layered character who just needs a chance at redemption. Terry Pheto also plays her role brilliantly and in recent years has gone on to star in larger-budget films and is set for a role in the Nelson Mandela biopic, "Mandela: A Long Walk To Freedom".

Verdict

"Tsotsi" is without a doubt, one of the best foreign language films to be made in the past ten years, less shocking than "City Of God", but just as effective.

8 stars out of 10.

Written by Scott Gentry.

Film Rating Key

1-2 stars out of ten = Awful.

3-4 stars out of ten = Average.

5-6 stars out of ten = Good.

7-8 stars out of ten = Excellent.

9-10 stars out of ten = Amazing.

Who knew sex addiction was a laughing matter? Writes Scott Gentry, as he reviews "Thanks For Sharing".

"Thanks For Sharing"
Director: Stuart Blumberg.
Starring: Mark Ruffalo, Tim Robbins and Gwyneth Paltrow.
Rated: 15, for containing strong sex, sex references and strong language.
Running Time: 112 minutes.
Out now in UK cinemas.

"Thanks For Sharing" follows a group of individuals, who are trying to overcome a natural urge, sex. As they attend an addicts group led by Mike (Tim Robbins), our story focusses on three central characters (Adam - Mark Ruffalo, Neil - Josh Gad and Dede - Alecia Moore), who begin to develop romances and friendships; through their mistakes and successes. 

You've got to admit, selling a film about sex addiction to producers must be hard; however it seems director Stuart Blumberg (writer of the award winning film "The Kids Are All Right) has succeeded. 

Films of this nature have begun cropping up in the last three years, the most memorable being Steve McQueen's "Shame", a dramatic and often shocking look at sex addiction through one man; Brandon (Michael Fassbender).

"Thanks For Sharing" (albeit tough and challenging material at times) doesn't live up fully to my expectations based upon films like "Shame". However, this doesn't matter. 

This film may not be as emotionally wrenching as "Shame", but it doesn't need to be. It gets across a clear and delicate message, in which the most unlikely of audiences will be able to get their head around. 

The film begins with a small but insightful invitation into the lives of our (very different) main characters. It's good that all characters come from different situations and backgrounds, as there may be people who have these problems and this film could be a way to help their addiction, but on a more relate-able level.

The aspect of sex addiction, is no joke. The film delivers a very real look into the character's lives, but always (barely) keeps inside the comedy/drama genre. At times the film is explicit, but it partly needs to be; as the film should delve properly into the addiction and not deliver a sugar-coated Hollywood comedy. Thankfully, it doesn't. 

The main cast is superb. Mark Ruffallo delivers a perfect and believable performance, especially when the film develops dark overtones. Gwyneth Paltrow acts exceedingly well in a non-Pepper Pots ("Iron Man" reference) role which allows her to flourish into a seasoned actress. Alecia Moore (stage name, PINK) portrays a slightly underused, but likeable character.

Verdict

Honestly, "Thanks For Sharing" is a more accessible film than "Shame". still delivering the sharp dialogue and awkward situations under a lighter (sometimes dark) mood. A genuine crowd pleaser, despite it's delicate overtones.

7.5 Stars out of 10 = Excellent.

Written by Scott Gentry.

Film Rating Key

1-2 stars out of ten = Awful.

3-4 stars out of ten = Average.

5-6 stars out of ten = Good.

7-8 stars out of ten = Excellent.

9-10 stars out of ten = Amazing.

The latest trailer for "Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit" bursts in... Writes Scott Gentry.

Following the death of author Tom Clancy only three days ago, the first trailer for "Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit", has finally been released. 

Honestly it looks promising, with plenty of action and Chris Pine on good form, there is no reason why "JR: SR" won't live up to the fan's expectations. With Jack Ryan (the character) having not been seen in cinema screens for eleven years, I think it's time for a well-deserved reboot. The cast list is strong, with large names like Kevin Costner, Kenneth Branagh and Keira Knightley; who are bound to pull in crowds, for all the right reasons. 

 "Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit" will be released on December 26th (in the UK) and will be reviewed in a future article.

Watch the trailer by clicking on the link (at the bottom of the page) or watch it here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXaHsTyP_Bc

Scott Gentry takes a look at the UK's box office current results...

Currently, child-abduction drama "Prisoners" owns the number one spot, while racing drama "Rush" is still in second place. "Diana" clings to the scoreboard only making £1.38M, in it's first two weeks of release. After 12 weeks, "Monsters University" is still on the chart, grossing £28.4M.

THEY BROKE THE RULES OF BRITISH TV!

Hello, it's Jon. I know! I've been trapped in the year 802701 A.D. where the human race has fractured into two rival races: The fragile, peace-loving Eloi, and the carnivorous, sun-hating Morlocks. Also my internet's been down for almost a month. Either way, today I review Prisoners!

Come gather round children, as I shakily sip a cup of 'erbal green tea in my chesterfield, stuttering as I regale the tale of Christian Bale Hugh Jackman.

It started off fairly normal. I didn't think much when that Naera of a man, Scott Gentry, invited me to see Prisoners, with such favorites as Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal. I thought that it started quite generically, and I spent most of my time deliberating as to whether or not it was a horror movie or not. I like to think that it was slightly aware of itself in that respect, and I appreciated the role-reversal.

The plot was solid and gripping, with more red herrings than a House Tully banner (I know their sigil is a Trout, just let me have it) and as many shocking scenes. It's always made me laugh, that the British public can quite comfortably watch a man be decapitated, but shirks at the sight of a dog in the rain. Or a dolly from the 1830's. Be forewarned, you animal-lovers, there are about six seconds of animal-cruelty that made a lot of people in the audience (myself included) inhale slightly with horror.


The characters were morally ambiguous, which is always a good concept to explore. The only thing that annoyed me slightly--you know how passive I am, right?-- was JAKE GYLLENHAAL'S SODDING TWITCH God! I don't know if it's a serious problem, or a supposed acting "talent", but it really got on my nerves. He was a bit of a faceless, two-dimensional bastard. However, he thawed slightly toward the end--slightly, mind--and became a little bit more than a stock character only here to entertain the groundlings at the latest commedia dell arte.


All in all, it had a pretty solid storyline and a fairly good cast. It's the proud winner of the Jon Petre award for the Best Cliffhanger since Inception. Although, to be honest, there haven't been that many convicincing cliffhangers since then.

Four Increments/Stars out of Five

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