mattparsons1980 Reviews

Soldier (I) (1998)

A defining moment for all involved

[2/10 · 5 December 2007]

Lucky for Kurt there were about 4 lines for him to learn, or this might not have been worth getting paid for. But wait... maybe (like in silent film) his wage justification will manifest in the expression and mannerisms he adds to the role, to develop his character. Nope.

Definition of 'A soldier': A highly trained human combat expert that utilises the latest technology and tactics to the highest standard of execution.

Definition of 'Soldier': A highly sh!t film with Kurt as a piece of wood called Todd, whose training has given him the ability to walk slowly towards danger without ducking.

Metaphorical Equivalent: Naming a film 'My Dog Skip', who's story revolves around a cat with two legs.

Michael Carroll: King of Chavs (2006 TV Movie)

Surprisingly one of the best documentaries you'll see

[8/10 · 8 September 2007]

Great stuff. Whether you pity, mock or empathise with Carrol's attitude towards life, it can't be denied that it provides great entertainment, whatever your own take on life might be. This is a well made documentary which veers away from the often stuffy delivery that many documentaries provide, and offers up plenty of debate for your next trip to the pub. It works because we have all imagined what we would do with that 'big win', so to see someone else's take on it is an interesting premise, Carrol's take being one that (for me at least) inspired frustration, as well as a degree of pity. This film can't help but mock its subject (for the most part... Keith Allen does his best to be respectful and professional) but does succeed in portraying Carrol as both victim of his win, and abuser of it, also highlighting the 'hangers on' whom have helped Carrol waste his money. I missed the celebrity boxing match when first shown, so was delighted to find that they repeated it in this film, along with some behind-the-scenes footage before and after the fight. Seeing a drunken, unfit bum take on a 20 stone body builder in a boxing match, is the stuff of slapstick Hollywood comedies - never mind a British charity event...