terrence-r-smith Reviews

'71 (2014)

Disappointing

[5/10 · 22 October 2014]

The tense scenes were fantastic and at times 71 was shocking, gripping and captivating. For me the first 30 minutes where you are introduced to the characters, the armies and authorities and when the British Army are deployed in Northern Ireland, were stand out, especially compared to what followed.

Apart from a few dodgy accents, I thought the acting was great. Jack O'Connell was brilliant, but not given as interesting role as he was previously in Starred-UP.

However 71 was let down by it quickly drifting into a thriller/action film, when Jack's character is left abandoned behind territory lines. From this moment on I encountered the scenes of violence more pornographic than necessary. All seemed a bit crass and typical.

I would recommend seeing it, but ultimately it was a let down by the story-telling of one character rather than actually digging deep into the political problem. Shame.

Once (I) (2007)

A unique film

[6/10 · 22 October 2014]

I thought at points this was a really interesting and unique film.

It didn't try to push anything and the pace of the film and dialog delivered allowed the actors time to be very believable.

At moments Once is a sweet, beautiful and moving story of two likely strangers, but the repetition of the weary love songs given by the singer- song writer get a wee bit to much for me.

In these moments, I felt my head heavy and temporarily distracted by the fact that I totally disagree with this type of music.

Overall I enjoyed the film, it was different, but it could of been elevated by the use of more imaginative shots and situations, and for me a better musician.