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Blokes (2013)
BLOKES - A Film for All
BLOKES (2013) Directed, Produced, Written, Edited & Filmed by Adrian Van Rossum.
Starring: Ron Odgers, Rick Romeo, Robert Zandonadi
"BLOKES" is an independent Australian film from the mind of bloke Adrian Van Rossum. In the vein of Andy Dufresne in the Shawshank Redemption "BLOKES" has been picking its way from the mind of Mr. Van Rossum to us since that first blog post way back in 2007 on the films website when it was just an idea making its way to paper. Fast Forward to 2013 the film Headlined the Whitsunday Film Festival and had a brief theatrical run in Ayr, Charters Towers & Townsville to much acclaim, hey it even outsold Hughie's 'The Wolverine'.
Now, let it be said I am a proud North Queensland 'Bloke' who has followed the films development for a couple of years now, and can relate heavily to the film but I feel without being too biased this review will give fair reasoning as to why you more removed folks should kick back and take in this wonderful piece of Australiana.
In summary the film follows 3 mates, Nudge, Two-Bags & Magic. 'Every few years, 3 best friends head into the Australian bush for laughter, beer and fishing - but this year things don't quite go to plan.' (excerpt from Blokes IMDb page). The 3 leading Blokes present themselves as just that, Blokes, engaging in an assortment of conversation from sheila's and rooting to big world issues...and then some more rooting, these are all scenarios Blokes can see themselves in with the odd dose of philosophy.
It's a credit to the script which is reminiscent of Kevin Smith's 'Clerks', a well known independent film turned cult classic that bares a place in the films slogan "Crocodile Dundee meets Clerks". I think they got it pretty bloody right, taking the practical of 'Crocodile Dundee' and offering monologues laced with out of the blue wisdom and observations of life that made 'Clerk's' the success it is.
'BLOKES' offers some humorous but accurate takes on Blokes and their banter, touching on world class issues and putting it in a way that gives you a laugh and actually makes you think about the world today, a lot of people will find reflections of themselves in the film. Everything from dealing with tele-marketers to the ever expanding restrictions that are being placed on Aussies and their way of life, "Red Tape Australia" as the film often remarks.
Now for anyone looking to go see the next 'Inception' or 'Pulp Fiction', this is not a film that dotes itself as having an overcomplicated plot. It however effectively communicates it's intent with the simplicity of a few mates going on a fishing trip and should be taken as such.
Nudge (Ron Odgers) narrates throughout the film, offering sensible reflections of life and what it means to be not only a Bloke, but Australian. It truly is an accurate adaption of the true Aussie Bloke in today's modern, technologically red taped times. In essence the film reminds us to look at what's important and appreciate the little things, and how it's good to leave the rest behind once in a while.
The film offers incredible visuals of Australia's natural beauty in North Queensland's Gulf Country, delivered in pristine Quality by the RED Camera used in production, which puts it on par with some of the most spectacularly done Hollywood visual effects. Some may find the pacing slow in places but I think this actually reflects essentially what the film is about, the Aussie way of life, laid back, relaxed, take it in, enjoy the scenery as it were.
Put to an assortment of original Australian music, a majority in part done by lead actor & musician Ron Odgers (Nudge) and songs from Aussie band 'Bluesville Station', this brings another enjoyable and quality part to this unique Australian Film.
The actors are just your everyday, hard working, blue collar Blokes having a crack at the Movie Star treatment and display good chemistry between one another and do well in delivering convincing performances that suit the film well and do not hold it back.
Seeing these Blokes standing where I've stood, looking at what I've seen, the film has a way of making you feel like you're on the trip with them, you almost want to reach into the Esky and have a beer with them, unfortunately one drawback of the film is you gotta bring your own grog!
In conclusion "BLOKES" is a unique film, a homage to that piece of cloth cut from the Aussie Rag known as Far North Queensland. For a first outing by Mr. Adrian Van Rossum this is a very well done film, and to think if this is the beginning, then any future projects under his further honed filmmaking skills will be a treat worth watching.
For anyone (even you Sheila's) who enjoys a good laugh, a look at our beautiful country and maybe something to think about, then this is a film for you. Anyone who can relate to this film will take it for what it is and if it is a bit left field for you, heed the wise of words Nudge (Ron Odgers): "Take us as you find us, or p*ss off, no skin off my nose".
Written by Jordan Abbey-Young.
The Tourist (2010)
The Tourist - Enjoyable!
As many are aware a lot of negative press has plagued 'The Tourist'. If you're like me and go into a film aware of such amounts of negativity you tend to view the film in, yes, a negative light and look for the things that are pointed out by the so called professional 'critics' which you otherwise may not have noticed otherwise. But I will not try to ruin what could be a perfectly fun viewing experience, you like it, you like it, you don't, you don't.
Starring the wildly diverse Johnny Depp and the enigmatic Angelina Jolie, 'The Tourist' brings together two of Hollywood's biggest stars for what could be referred to as a quick film in between projects, that's if you believe IMDb Trivia.
Directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck 'The Tourist' tells the story of Elise Clifton-Ward (Jolie), a lovestruck English woman who follows the instructions of her illustrious lover who we know as 'Alexander Pearce'. The man pursued by Inspector John Acheson (Paul Bettany who delivers a splendid reference to 'A Knights Tale'), a driving force behind the operation to catch Pearce. It is when she is 'summoned' by the mysterious Pearce to fool the authorities into believing she is with him already that poor American, Frank (Depp) is pulled into a world of chase, gangsters, police and Italians with attitude against the beautiful backdrop of Venice, Italy.
The film is what it is, and it knows what it is. Although it didn't sweep the Oscars (just a couple of Golden Globe nominations, Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress) it is an enjoyable movie experience and any fans of Depp or Angelina will surely get a kick out of it, especially at the end! So forget the hate, check yourself in and gaze at the beautiful scenes that are within 'The Tourist'.
10/10
The Simpsons: The Homer They Fall (1996)
The Homer They Fall Down Laughing
The Homer They Fall, when Bart's Utility Belt is stolen by the school bullies Homer tries to talk with the boys parents in the hope of getting Bart's belt back, but to his surprise it is revealed to Moe that Homer can sustain multiple hits without falling down. This calls for Moe to pay a visit to his past and get Homer on his way to becoming a great boxer. After a string of fights easily won by Homer Moe gets a visit by the manager of Heavy Weight champion Drederick Tatum. Moe is made an offer that he cannot refuse and Homer must fight the unbeatable champion. Will Homer survive to D'oh again?
A great episode filled with many moments and classic scenes that will have you laughing and looking in awe for the best 20 minutes in TV. Also makes a good gift for Boxing fans!
The Man Without a Face (1993)
The Man Without A Face But Not Without A Heart
This is one of my favourite films, Mel Gibson being my favourite actor has proved yet again what he can do with a role. Nick Stahl also does a brilliant job at playing Chuck Norstadt. Mel Gibson also made his Directing debut with this film and made it something special. A beautiful story about Chuck Norstadt (Stahl) who has an urge to get away from his family consisting of his mother (and her many husbands), his younger half sister & his older half sister who he has a bitter feud with. He is seen as a hard learner, this is where Justin McLeod (Gibson) comes in. Chuck in order to get away from his family must pass an exam to get into a Military Academy his father attended. Justin having been disfigured in a car accident is considered a 'Freak' by many including Chuck until they encounter each other. Chuck discovered Justin was a teacher and takes this opportunity to get him to tutor Chuck for the exam. Justin having lived alone for seven years is not interested in the idea until Chuck returns. Justin lives by the philosophy 'Learn or Leave' towards Chuck, until their friendship grows. Brilliant performances making a brilliant story that will tug at your emotions each time you watch this film makes it truly something special. This film is beauty in every sense of the word and brings new light to friendship & judging people under assumptions.
The Simpsons: Homer vs. the 18th Amendment (1997)
A Brilliant Episode
When I saw this episode and got the DVD with it I watched it a lot of times and looked forward to seeing it. I favor these types of episodes on the show and this one in particular is no exception.
When Springfield Celebrates Saint Patrick's Day Bart is seen drunk by the entire crowd and the News Team. This sends a wake up call to Springfield about Liquor in the town and leads to Chief Wiggum being booted from SPD and replaced by a strict 1940s Cop out to do everything he can to keep Springfield Booze Free. As you can imagine Homer and the good folk's at Moe's Tavern won't let their Precious Duff go without a fight. After a few attempts to get Booze back into Springfield Homer takes it upon himself to make the booze himself in The Simpson's Basement, another father-Son activity for Homer and Bart. Homer supplies Moe's Bar with the Booze and makes a pretty penny even Marge is impressed by.
Filled with Funny Lines and Great Moments this is an episode that will quench anybodies Thirst.
The Simpsons: The Seven-Beer Snitch (2005)
A Brilliant Episode
When I saw this episode and got the DVD with it I watched it a lot of times and looked forward to seeing it. I favor these types of episodes on the show and this one in particular is no exception.
When Springfield Celebrates Saint Patrick's Day Bart is seen drunk by the entire crowd and the News Team. This sends a wake up call to Springfield about Liquor in the town and leads to Chief Wiggum being booted from SPD and replaced by a strict 1940s Cop out to do everything he can to keep Springfield Booze Free. As you can imagine Homer and the good folk's at Moe's Tavern won't let their Precious Duff go without a fight. After a few attempts to get Booze back into Springfield Homer takes it upon himself to make the booze himself in The Simpson's Basement, another father-Son activity for Homer and Bart. Homer supplies Moe's Bar with the Booze and makes a pretty penny even Marge is impressed by.
Filled with Funny Lines and Great Moments 'The Seven Beer Snitch' is an episode that will quench anybodies Thirst.
The Simpsons: Das Bus (1998)
Survivor Meets The Simpsons
I love episodes of The Simpsons that involve them going on a great adventure and getting lost or at a Mystery Location, it's hard to describe but all I can say is this episode is a great one.
After Otto crashes the School bus into the ocean the Kids of Springfield Elementary must survive on an island, with traitors, Tribal war, a hunt, a Trial, it makes u think of Survivor Simpsons Style.
Off the Island Homer gets inspired to make money off of the internet and gets a visit from Bill Gates!
Filled with great scenes and moments that will stick with you through anything you see with an Island or even a School bus!
A fun, hilarious Episode to watch over and over....