Tag: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Review: The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug (2013)

Jamie Neish2 Comments

The Desolation Of Smaug

After the bloated and unsatisfying first instalment in the Hobbit film series left many frustrated and disappointed, it comes as a relief to discover that its follow-up, subtitled The Desolation Of Smaug, is a considerably more forcible and pleasing romp. It’s fun and spry, with a bulging sense of adventure and urgency that excuses a vast majority of the more superfluous moments. Peter Jackson’s penultimate return to Middle Earth feels as much like a piece of The Lord Of The Rings saga as one could hope. Continue reading “Review: The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug (2013)” →

Review: Pacific Rim (2013)

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Pacific Rim

Marking Guillermo Del Toro’s first directorial effort since Hellboy II: The Golden Army (he was originally attached to direct The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey before departing due to MGM’s financial difficulties), Pacific Rim is a surprisingly sprite blockbuster that works well as a throwback to the classic 1950s and 60s Japanese monster films, but is ultimately let down by a calculable narrative, questionable performances and over-the-top action. Continue reading “Review: Pacific Rim (2013)” →

85th Academy Awards: Nominations

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Academy Awards

The nominations for the 85th annual Academy Awards were announced earlier today by host Seth MacFarlane and actress Emma Stone, both of whom brought some much-needed humour to the usually dull announcement. Lincoln, Steven Spielberg’s historical biopic about former US president Abraham Lincoln’s endeavours to achieve passage of the constitutional amendment, was revealed as the frontrunner with a total of twelve nominations, with Silver Linings Playbook Continue reading “85th Academy Awards: Nominations” →