Superman (Henry Cavill) is dead. The world’s crime rate is rising and a supernatural threat could mean global destruction (a worn-out staple of most modern superhero films). Batman (Ben Affleck), with the help of Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), assembles a team to fight back and preserve the Kryptonian’s pursuit of peace. DC’s latest attempt to spur their cinematic universe to life has been plagued by post-production troubles and an absurd budget. Continue reading “Review: Justice League (2017)”
Ben Affleck writes, directs and stars in this visually sumptuous, yet clunky adaptation of Dennis Lehane’s 1920s set crime novel, in which he plays the prodigal son of a cop who ties himself to the Italian mob in hopes of exacting revenge. It’s not as clear cut as that, the script weaving in many extraneous subplots involving an impressive array of supporting actors, each better than the material they’re awarded (Sienna Miller, Zoe Saldana and Chris Messina all have roles). Continue reading “Review: Live By Night (2017)”
Marvel remain the favourite with their Cinematic Universe as DC’s marquee match-up Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice is a crushing bore. Zack Snyder’s direction proves an oppressive burden; the darkness and heavy-handed approach leaving no room for humour or levity as Batman (Ben Affleck) rages with anger and Superman (Henry Cavill) sulks. Continue reading “Review: Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice (2016)”
No stranger to adaptations, David Fincher helms Gone Girl, a hypnotic, twisted and shrewdly executed thriller that’s been reworked for the screen by none other than the novel’s author Gillian Flynn. Nick (Ben Affleck) returns home on his fifth wedding anniversary to discover his wife, Amy (Rosamund), has disappeared. As a media storm erupts and the police uncover incriminating evidence, Nick quickly finds himself as prime suspect, forced to hire defence lawyer Tanner Bolt (Tyler Perry) for protection. Continue reading “Review: Gone Girl (2014)”
When the American embassy in Iran is ambushed by Iranian revolutionaries in 1979, hostages are taken and people killed in haste. However, six manage to escape through an underground tunnel and take refuge with the Canadian Ambassador in his official residence. With their safety and return to US soil of paramount importance, CIA exfiltration expert Tony Mendez (Ben Affleck) is landed the task and fosters an elaborate plot to smuggle them out as a Canadian Continue reading “Review: Argo (2012)”
Empty Screens 