EIFF 2012: Fourth Dimension Review

★★☆☆☆

Three filmmakers, each with the same brief, construct three separate short films on the subject of the fourth dimension (4D). This being that there is a fourth spacial dimension in our world waiting to be accessed. Not that you are likely to pick any of this up from the disjointed and completely tedious, The Fourth Dimension. However, praise should go to The Fourth Dimensions' producers for attempting to create something unique.

The first segment entitled 'The Lotus Community Workshop' directed by Harmony Korine is by far the film's strongest asset. Val Kilmer stars as himself, with the actor now working as an inspirational self-help guru promising his followers the prospect of discovering "awesome secrets". The strength of the segment relies on Kilmers' wonderful screen-presence and outrageous improvisation - his performance lying somewhere between comedy genius and demented lunacy. Set in a red lit skating rink, complete with disco ball, Korine's segment captures the way people look to celebrity in almost a God-like fashion, searching for a way of higher being. This is captured through the audiences obsessive screams at any of Kilmer's statements, regardless of how implausible and ridiculous they are.

As we move on to the second segment, Alexey Fedorchenko’s Chronoeye things take a rather extreme turn for the worst. Despite being the closest thematically to an idea of a fourth dimension, an interesting concept is squandered by a repetitive narrative and dull characterisation. Chronoeye sees Russian scientist, Grigory Mikhailovich (Igor Sergeev) attempt to create a machine that can view the most important moments throughout history through eyewitness accounts. Whilst this concept does sound interesting, Fedorchenko’s segement is carried out in such a drab, repetitive fashion that it just becomes completely unengaging.

The final segment Jan Kwiecinski's Fawns sees four youths roam around an evacuated Polish town, as extreme floods approach. Kwiecinski's segment takes a more human approach to the fourth dimension as these boisterous characters soon find their humanity after saving a bedbound young girl from the floods. This statement about humanity does not really hold out too well though, as prior to saving the girl they shoot her father who was attempting to protect her. These characters are particularly unlikeable throughout and as a viewer it was a challenge to regard them with any compassion.

The Fourth Dimension is simply too disjointed to work thematically as one film. How teenagers roaming around an abandoned town relates to Val Kilmer shouting about candy floss and awesome secrets, is anyone's guess. It may make more sense when you see that The Fourth Dimension is from Grolsch Film Works as surely kegs of the stuff must have been downed in order to think this was ever a clever, feasible idea.

Andrew McArthur

Stars:Val Kilmer
Directors: Harmony Korine, Aleksei Fedorchenko, Jan Kwiecinski

Release: 27th June (EIFF)

EIFF 2012: God Bless America Review

★★★1/2☆

Bobcat Goldthwait established himself as one of the most exciting comedy directors in recent years after his excellent 2009 film, World's Greatest Dad. His latest film, a biting satire on contemporary culture entitled God Bless America, proves equally as enjoyable.

Frank (Joel Murray) has just lost his job, he is divorced and has just been diagnosed with a brain tumour. Growing continually disillusioned by the ever growing idiocy of our society, Frank decides to rid the world of some of its most obnoxious citizens. After taking out a repellent reality television star, Frank discovers he has an admirer - sixteen year old Roxy (Tara Lynne Barr). The pair venture out on an obscure road trip full of strangely feel good serial killing.

It is hard not to sympathise slightly with Goldthwait's view of contemporary culture, regardless of how extreme it is. This is perfectly captured in the opening where Frank flicks through television channels, capturing society's obsession with fame, celebrities and social networking. Frank falls asleep watching a contestant being exploited on reality singing contest 'American Superstars' and wakes up to see the said contestant, the talking point of Breakfast Television. Other delights that Frank witnesses include "Tuff Girls" where one girl throws a bloodied tampon at another. This may be a rather extreme and blatant depiction of contemporary culture, but there is an alarming truth in Goldthwait's message.

Goldthwait's film is consistently amusing and boasts an enjoyably twisted feel good quality. We all harbour a small hatred for the people that talk in cinemas, extreme religious fundamentalists and obnoxious children, so it is hard not to be on Frank's side throughout. Of course, you could compare God Bless America to a drunken Grandparent's rant - complaining about all the things that annoy them, as Goldthwait does have a tendency to preach to the viewer, regardless to how thought provoking some of his points may be. This is completely evident in God Bless America's limp finale where it appears Goldthwait's message has stretched as far as is possible - it is the equivalent of the drunken Grandparent now falling asleep.

One of the strongest elements of God Bless America is they dynamic between the characters of Frank and Roxy. To Frank, Roxy provides a welcome alternative to his vile daughter - sharing his distaste of American culture. Roxy finds an escape from the tedium of her everyday life in the company of Frank. What results is a completely charming, relationship between the two - bonding over their various hates in society.

Joel Murray's understated performance is particularly fascinating, with the actor managing to capture Frank's struggles as a man who has been told he does not have long to live, alongside his growing hatred towards society and his somewhat sociopathic tendencies - yet still be completely likeable. After a shaky start, it is hard to find yourself not warming to Tara Lynne Barr's performance - with the eager young sociopath becoming quite endearing.

God Bless America is a thoroughly entertaining watch, which may also help challenge the way we look at contemporary culture. Goldthwait's message ultimately runs out of steam in the end, despite magnetic lead performances from Joel Murray and Tara Lynne Barr throughout.

Andrew McArthur

Stars:Joel Murray, Tara Lynne Barr Director: Bobcat Goldthwait
Release: 29th June (EIFF),4th July (UK, Limited), 9th July (UK DVD)
Rating: 15 (UK)
Pre-Order/Buy God Bless America On DVD

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EIFF 2012: Shadow Dancer Review

★★1/2☆☆

BBC Films latest production, Shadow Dancer has already met positive receptions at both this year's Sundance and Berlin Film Festivals. Now it is the turn of The Edinburgh International Film Festival to take on this slow-burning British thriller.

James Marsh (Man On Wire, Project Nim) directs Shadow Dancer, an adaptation of ITV Political Editor, Tom Bradby's novel of the same name. After a failed railway bombing, IRA member Colette McVeigh (Andrea Riseborough), is detained by MI5. In order to avoid a length prison sentence, McVeigh is left with no other choice but to act as an informant for the British authorities.

Shadow Dancer requires a lot of patience, this is a particularly slow and brooding, cat and mouse thriller. Marsh's films opens with a completely startling and heartbreaking, 1970s set opening sequence that completely encapsulates the Irish troubles of the time. We are quick to learn that this may be the story of one individual family, but Bradby's haunting story also represents a whole country going through turmoil.

When Shadow Dancer transfers to the 1990s, we see that these troubles are still highly prevalent. This is captured in a tense sequence where McVeigh attempts to detonate a bomb in a British railway station. The pace of the film completely slows after this, building up a brooding sense of unease and tension - a fitting representation of British and Irish relations of the time. Due to this lessened pace, it is quite a struggle to stay engaged with Marsh's film for its' first hour. However, the third act sees the story begin to unravel, as tensions reach boiling point - completely shaking the lives of McVeigh and her family.

At its heart, there is a profound story of family loyalty and dedication running through Shadow Dancer. The quiet resilience of the McVeigh family as they try and make the best out a dark situation is endearing. This is perfectly captured in Andrea Riseborough's stunning lead performance. The actress who thoroughly impressed in W.E. and Brighton Rock, proves to one of Britain's finest young talents with her powerful turn as Colette McVeigh.

Unfortunately, one of the most interesting aspects of Shadow Dancer - the relationship between McVeigh and MI5 agent, Mac (Clive Owen) is completely underutilised. The occasional meetings between the two characters are sporadic, yet prove to be some of the most tense aspects of the film. This is a role that Clive Owen could play in his sleep, giving a solid performance, despite it being a slightly predictable role. Strong supporting turns from Gillian Anderson and Aidan Gillen, add some moments of interest but prove equally underused.

While James Marsh's Shadow Dancer is excellent at building brooding atmosphere and capturing the tension of the time, it proves to be too slow paced to be classed as enjoyable. Andrea Riseborough's performance is the strongest element of the film and ultimately its saving grace.

Andrew McArthur

Rating:15
Release: 29th June (EIFF) & 24th August (UK)
Stars: Andrea Riseborough, Clive Owen, Aidan Gillen,  Gillian Anderson
Director: James Marsh

Killer Joe - William Friedkin Video Interview

To millions of cinephiles he’s the man who scared the living daylights out of them in the 1970′s with The Exorcist he also help make crime thrillers stylish and cool with French Connection. But since then its been quietly in the background waiting for his moment and this Friday it will arrive in the shape of Killer Joe, step forward William Friedkin and enjoy the video interview with the director himself.
Andrew caught Killer Joe last week at the Edinburgh Film Festivalfor The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse and heard nothing but praise for it, though I was munching away at Fried Chicken (though not long after it!).Its seems Friedkin has captured the films blend of dark twisted humour,sex, violence with such perfection that would give the old KFC Colonel a heart attack. We may have a scene or scenes that could be potentially be rated up next to the Blue Velvet and Killer Joe is certain to keep people talking long after they’ve seen the film.
Killer Joe stars Matthew McConaughy as ‘Killer’ Joe Cooper a Dallas detective who earns some extra cash on the side as a hitman who is offered a job by Chris (Emile Hirsch) a low life drug dealer. Chris wants his mother (Gina Gershon) knocked off so they can get his hands on her $50,000 life insurance however the problem starts as Joe requires a down payment. Joe has eyes on Chris sister Dottie (Juno Temple) and they use her as the retainer but from here the problems arise and everything is downhill.
Unfortunately due to things beyond our control we were unable to catch up with the director at Edinburgh Film Festival however our friends at HeyUguys (Thanks David!) have come to the rescue and shared their video interview with us. In the interview the iconic director chats about the film, about the sequels to his classic 1973 film The Exorcist but what we love about this interview is when he’s asked about the proposed tv series of the Exorcist his reply is a classic, enjoy!

Killer Joe will be released nationwide this Friday 29th June, Read Andrew's Review here.

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Taiwanese ZOMBIE 108 Invading UK Homes This July!

Billed as Taiwan's first ever Zombie film in history ZOMBIE 108 which has generated a nice buzz within the Horror community worldwide. Thanks to help of 900 fans with funding Director Joe Chien's film and thanks to our friends at Cine Asia British and Irish Horror fans to enjoy the film when its released this July on DVD.

After a catastrophic accident at a top secret research lab, a deadly virus is released into the city and all hell breaks loose.


Controlled by a local crime lord, District 108 is the one place in the city the police don't want to go on a normal day. But today is not a normal day, and the crack SWAT team ordered to help evacuate the uninfected must do just that. Met with fierce resistance by the local gangs, both sides suffer heavy casualties before realising that the guys with the guns aren't the real enemy: the zombies are!


With ammunition running low, the two sides join forces to fight for the only thing worth fighting for: a chance to escape from the city and the zombies currently running loose in it!

Selected for the Terror-Cotta film festival in association with FILM4 Frightfest Prince Charles Cinema London Friday 13th April 2012.  

Zombie 108 will be released in UK&Ireland July 30th (Pre Order / Buy Zombie 108 On DVD )

They Trained Him, But Can't Stop Him, Dolph Lundgren's THE PENTATHLON

With Olympic arriving in London next month why not get into the Olympic spirit with  Dolph “The Expendables” Lundgren goes to the Olympics and kicks plenty of neo-Nazi butt along the way in this sport-themed action-thriller., THE PENTATHLON for the first time on Blu-Ray.

After winning Olympic Gold in Seoul, East German pentathlete Eric Brogar (Lundgren) takes the opportunity to escape his past and the demands of his tyrannical coach, Heinrich Mueller (Soul), and flees to the freedom of the West with the help of a beautiful American athlete. 

Several years later, Mueller has given up coaching and turned his dubious talents to neo-Nazi terrorism and a series of attacks on German government officials. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Brogar has slipped into an alcoholic depression and ekes out a meagre living working at a local diner. Still angered by Brogar’s betrayal and driven by a need for revenge, the psychotic Mueller first targets Brogar’s father before flying to LA to finish off his former star athlete once and for all. 

In an attempt to get his life back on track, Brogar has begun training once more, this time at the woodland retreat of his former girlfriend. But the arrival of Mueller, who has since teamed up with Brogar’s arch rival Jurgen Reinhardt and a group of neo-Nazi sympathizers in the US, means Brogar will soon have to turn his skills to something more than winning medals. 

In a rare action movie based around the key pentathlon disciplines of shooting, swimming, fencing, horse riding and cross country running, Dolph does it all and unsurprisingly adds a healthy dose of awesome ass-kicking to the mix. Making the experience all the more interesting is the fact that, in a bizarre instance of life reflecting art, the film actually led to Dolph being selected to serve as manager of the real-life US Modern Pentathlon team for the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta.


The Pentathlon will be released July 30th thanks to Anchor Bay, the film also stars David Soul (Starsky & Hutch) and Renee Coleman (A League Of Their Own; After School) directed ny Nighthawks helmer Bruce Malmuth.

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The Original American Ninja Chuck Norris THE OCTAGON Been Re-Released This August!

Early today we told you about the toughest s.o.b in the world Chuck Norris and the release of his classic film A Force Of One been released on Blu-Ray . He is an idol to many dads, brothers, many male members of families worldwide and thanks to Anchor Bay once more August is a great time to be a fan of the original Expendable, the original American Ninja which sees the second classic Norris film coming to Blu-Ray for the first time, THE OCTAGON.

Scott James is a man haunted by memories, eerie flashbacks that plague both his waking and sleeping hours. The first is a childhood memory relating to the intense and rigorous combat training he and his best friend endured under the guidance of a mysterious martial arts master. The second is a far more painful recollection of loss, and one that has turned Scott away from his former life. But when a wealthy heiress convinces him to enter the fray once more, Scott finds himself drawn into an international terrorist organisation consisting of deadly ninjas, at the head of which is a close acquaintance from his past. Now it is up to Scott to confront his worst fears and battle a former adversary in the ultimate ninja showdown.

As far as we are concerned, the only way to improve a Chuck Norris movie is to introduce ninjas into the mix and show us the goods in Hi-Def. This Blu-ray release does both. Throw in a bizarre voice-over expressing Chuck’s inner thoughts and we’re talking all-time-fave Chuck madness. A major cult favorite amongst fans of 1980s martial arts flicks, this was one of the first US films to exploit the ancient art of the ninja and spawned countless imitators, but none ever came close to its all round awesomeness. It’s also notable as being the vehicle for Richard Norton’s acting debut. And if you thought Chuck couldn’t be a ninja, then beware. He’s right behind you. Go ahead; take a look. It’ll be the last thing you’ll ever see.

The Octagon also stars  Lee Van Cleef (Escape From New York; The Good, The Bad And The Ugly), cult genre movie icon Art Hindle (Black Christmas; Porky’s; Invasion Of The Body Snatchers), karate expert and bodyguard to the stars Richard Norton (Force: Five; China O’Brien) in his acting debut, prolific character actor Tracey Walter (I Spit On Your Grave; The Silence Of The Lambs; Batman) in one of his classic “uncredited” roles and Karen Carlson (Dallas). Anchor Bay will release The Octagon on August 6th Pre Order Your Blu-ray copy here

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The Octagon (1980) - Official Trailer | Digitally Remastered | HD 1080p | Chuck Norris Published via LongTail.tv

EIFF 2012: California Solo Review

★★★1/2☆

After a successful brief stint in the world of television, Robert Carlyle makes his return to feature films with California Solo. Marshall Lewy's film excels as an engaging character study with the help of an exceptional performance from its' lead star, but brings nothing particularly new to the genre.

California Solo follows expat Lachlan MacAldonich, a former Britpop rocker who now works on a Los Angeles farm. After a DIU and the discovery of a former drug charge, Lachlan is threatened by deportation charges. The faded-star must fight to remain in the country, but after several old demons reawaken, this does not look likely.

Whilst Lewy's screenplay may not make any bold statements or deviate from traditional melodramatic formula, it proves to be engaging enough by simply telling one man's story. This tendency to simply observe does make California Solo feel very much like a safe "afternoon TV movie", which is not to say that it is not enjoyable. The character of Lachlan truly carries the film. This is a particularly well written role and equally well performed by Carlyle. Seeing the transformation from a relatively upbeat farm worker fall back to the self destructive ways from his rock star past, makes for fascinating viewing. California Solo looks at how poor life choices and past memories can lead to a path of self destruction, but also ensures there is always a new beginning in sight. This self destructive character may feel slightly like it has been done before, but Carlyle injects so much life and soul into the role that it ultimately feels fresh.

The Scottish star essentially carries the film from the onset, showcasing one of the strongest performances of his career. This utterly convincing, raw and natural turn makes for a thoroughly engaging watch. Even clichéd narrative elements - like Lachlan reconnecting with his daughter, Arianwen, after ten years, are brought to life by these stirring performances. Praise must also go to Savannah Lathem for a wonderfully delicate performance as the said estranged daughter.

To fans of the Britpop scene, it is interesting to see the epitome of the British music scene in the early 1990s, transformed to the setting of present day USA. The American character's reaction to Lachlan's music history is particularly intriguing - some completely unaware of his band The Cranks, whilst others view him as an almost legendary cult figure.

Other moments, including Lachlan's visit to his ruthless old manager, capture the unsympathetic nature of the music business and provide an interesting deviation from traditional melodramatic narrative elements. However, these are promptly reaffirmed by the construction of a faux romantic subplot with a young woman, Beau, from Lachlan's farmers market.

California Solo excels as an engaging character study, laced with traces of the Britpop music scene. Carlyle's performance as Lachlan is sensational, so much so that you would be willing to forgive the narrative's occasional lack of originality.

Andrew McArthur

Stars: Robert Carlyle, Savannah Lathem , Danny Masterson
Director:Marshall Lewy
Release: 28th June 2012 (EIFF)

California Solo (2012) Official film trailer from Edward Einhorn on Vimeo.

Win ATTACK OF THE HERBALS On DVD!

Nazis in gasmasks, a foul-mouthed kilt-wearing land-baron, zimmer-frame wielding flesh eating pensioners… what’s not to love?? Scottish comedy-horror ATTACK OF THE HERBALS is strangely charming and never takes itself too seriously!

Jackson McGregor has returned after years of exile to his grandparent’s home in a small sleepy Scottish village, a village where the daily routine consists of eating, sleeping, fishing and drinking tea. However the local’s way of life is under threat from a large corporate retail machine headed up by a monster named Bennett who wants to buy land for a new development.

After discovering a crate of herbal tea washed up on shore, Jackson hatches a plan to sell the tea and save the village. However the new lease of life the tea seems to give people soon turns into a nightmare, and Jackson finds himself in a village of Zimmer-frame wielding, flesh eating pensioners.

Can Jackson save the village, redeem himself and stay alive? Attack of the Herbals puts the Tea back into terror, an outrageously funny horror comedy that is quite simply Scotland’s answer to Shaun of the Dead....

To celebrate the release of David Ryan Keith’s home-grown Scottish comedy-horror, ATTACK OF THE HERBALS, we copies of the film 2 give away on DVD courtesy of our friends at Showbox Media. To Win a copy of this film please answer the following question: 


Q. As tea is made with water, what George C Romero film did the residents of a town go insane after drinking the local water supply?


Send your answer , name, address, to have your email to  cinehouseuk@gmail.com header As ‘herbals’. Deadline:July 15 th, 2012 (2359hrs) .

ATTACK OF THE HERBALS - UK Trailer from Showbox Media Group Ltd on Vimeo.

Attack Of The Herbals is available from today 25th June on DVD.

Terms and Conditions

• This prize is non-transferable.
• No cash alternatives apply.
• UK & Irish entries only
  The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse and Showbox Media have the right to alter, delay or cancel this competition without any notice
• The competition is not opened to employees, family, friends of The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse, Showbox media employees
• This competition is promoted on behalf of Showbox media
• The Prize is to win Attack of The Herbals on DVD, 3 winners
• To enter this competition you must send in your answer, name, address only, Deadline July 15th, 2012 (2359hrs)
• Will only accept entries sent to the correct email (cinehouseuk@gmail.com), any other entry via any other email will be void.
• The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse takes no responsibility for delayed, lost, stolen prizes
• The competition is opened to Aged 16  and over 
• Unless Stated Please  Do Not Include Telephone Numbers, we don’t need them
• The winning entries will be picked at random and contacted by email
• By sending your entry for this competition you are confirming you have read and agreed to these Terms & Conditions.

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"We're Not Worthy" Own A Piece Of Chuck On Blu Ray Release of A FORCE OF ONE

The original “Expendable”, the undisputed toughest guy on the planet and the only man ever to have counted to infinity – twice, the second time backwards! – World Karate Champion turned actor Chuck Norris stars in this classic, groundbreaking US kung fu movie, now on Blu-ray for the first time....A FORCE OF ONE.

A routine investigation by a crack team of undercover narcotic agents becomes anything but when a deadly assassin begins to eliminate the members of the squad one by one. In a desperate bid to identify the culprit, and to train its officers in the martial arts in order to defend themselves, the police force attempts to enlist the help of Matt Logan, a noted karate champion.

Initially reluctant to become involved in any way, Logan soon changes his mind when his adopted son becomes the villain’s latest victim. Driven by sheer vengeance, he vows to track down the psychotic serial killer and bring the reign of terror to an end in a climactic battle between good and evil.

It’s a Chuck Norris movie and, finally, in Hi-Def for the very first time! If this isn’t what Hi-Def was invented for then we really don’t know what is. We thought Chuck was actually in the room with us. What more do you want? This is a guy capable of slamming a revolving door and is so fast he can run around the world and punch himself in the back of the head. One of Chuck’s first real starring outings, ‘A Force Of One’ was the first Hollywood movie to bring a full contact karate bout to the screen and, if you look really closely, there’s a scene in which Chuck actually makes a Happy Meal cry (okay, we lied about that last bit).

Apart from good  Chuck, A Force Of One also stars , screen beauty Jennifer O’Neill (Scanners), cult 1980s horror icon Clu Gulager (Piranha 3DD; A Nightmare On Elm Street Part 2; The Return Of The Living Dead) and legendary kickboxer Bill Wallace (The Protector)with Oscar-winning screenwriter Ernest Tidyman (The French Connection; Shaft) scripting .So kids you wondering why your dads and uncles are so excited about The Expendables 2? Well on August 6th on Blu Ray you will be treated to a real lesson in martial arts and good old slobber knocker action, this August your eduction will begin!

Pre Order / Buy A Force of One On Blu-ray

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A Force of One (1979) - Official Trailer | Digitally Remastered | HD 720p | Chuck Norris Published via LongTail.tv

Gianax's PANTY AND STOCKING WITH GARTERBELT Coming To UK This July!

This is probably one of the weirdest names for Japanese animation  but Gianax's PANTY AND STOCKING WITH GARTERBELT has a cult following and in July UK&Irish fans can now own the series on DVD!

Panty and Stocking - the Anarchy Sisters - are two nasty angels who got booted from the pearly gates for being foul-mouthed bitches! Now they spend their days blowing up ghosts in the lecherous abyss between Heaven and Earth. Panty likes sex, Stocking likes sweets, their afro-sporting main man Garter Belt has a fetish we can't mention. Together, they're keeping the streets free of bodily fluids. Ghosts don't have a prayer against their panty pistols and stocking swords, and if this debaucherous duo can collect enough Heaven Coins, they just might get their halos back. They've got a slim chance in hell, but rolling commando is the best way to get lucky - especially with Panty and Stocking!

Ok this isn't you straight up anime nor is it the dreaded Hentai, its naughty, sexy, funny and the mix of stereotypical anime style and ren&stimpy visuals may appeal to a wider audience. Manga Entertainment are releasing the series (season one) on DVD in UK&;Ireland on July 30th, pre order your copy and check out the UK trailer below. 

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EIFF 2012: Grabbers Review

★★★1/2☆
Jon Wright's Irish set horror, Grabbers, feels like a welcome return to the days of the 1980s creature features laced with comedy. So far, it is also the most entertaining horror film of this years' Edinburgh International Film Festival.

After several dead whales wash up on the shores of Erin Island, Garda Officers Ciarán O'Shea (Richard Coyle) and Lisa Nolan (Ruth Bradley) are set on the case. They soon discover the presence of blood-sucking, tentacled aliens  on the island, promptly named "grabbers". However, it soon becomes clear that these creatures have an aversion to alcohol - so let the drinking ensue!

Part of the joy of Grabbers, is that it never takes itself too seriously, balancing both comedic and horror elements single handedly. It replicates the effortless whimsical charm of timeless monster features like Gremlins, Tremors and Critters - ensuring this is a fun watch from start to finish. Even the basic premise of Grabbers gives you an insight into the cheeky nature of the film - who doesn't want to see a town of drunks battle against aliens?

Grabbers may be fun, but it does not skimp on the darker horror elements. There are plenty of unexpected jumps and scares spread throughout - something that many other of Festival's horror films have been lacking. Wright's uses the eerily isolated Irish coastline for numerous creepy set pieces, from an attack on the beach to a country house invasion. There are also a variety of sweeping aerial shots capturing the picturesque qualities of the Irish setting.

Many a horror film has been let down by the eventual unveiling of its antagonist. Sometimes not seeing the source of the terror is far scarier than what is actually presented. However, the creature effects team behind the monsters in Grabbers, ensure that this is not the case. These are convincing, nasty looking monsters that are just as sinister on screen as they are when out of shot.

Grabbers also boasts a strong cast of excellent British character actors in well-written and engaging roles. Richard Coyle, who excelled in this year's Pusher remake, brings a truly endearing performance to Grabbers, whilst also proving to be equally talented whilst handling more comedic elements. The relationship between his slack, heavy drinking Garda officer and Ruth Bradley's straight-laced, young recruit, provides some welcome laughs. Bradley shows a wonderful sense of comic talent in Lisa Nolan's transformation from loveable prude to an even more loveable drunk - she is completely terrific throughout. Russell Tovey pops up for a smaller supporting role which provides a few laughs, but as good an actor as he is, the role is more annoying than entertaining.

A hilarious supporting cast continue Grabbers' charm offensive from Pascal Scott's turn as the town's cheeky GP to David Pearse and the excellent Bronagh Gallagher as the quaint local pub landlords.
Grabbers is a thoroughly enjoyable return to classic creature feature horror/comedy. Atmospheric direction, a perfectly comic screenplay and charming performances help Grabbers stand out from the rest of the festival's horror pictures. It is great fun.

Andrew McArthur

Stars: Richard Coyle, Ruth Bradley, Russell Tovey
Director: Jon Wright
Release: 25th June 2012(EIFF)

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A Dangerous Method DVD Review

★★☆☆☆

I know I'm not the only one waiting for David Cronenberg to go back to his roots. The man previously known as “the Baron of Blood” gave us the head-exploding Scanners and the fingernail-popping The Fly. However, of late, ol' Davey Croners seems more about “prestige” pictures than flesh-crawling horror. I'm not even a huge fan of horror, but I've always admired Cronenberg's way making things/ideas/images stick with you, like a splinter in your brain. This is something which I haven't really experienced with his latest output. Unfortunately, A Dangerous Method continues this trend and even struggles to contain anything memorable at all.

A Dangerous Method is based on the play A Talking Cure, which in turn was based on the book A Most Dangerous Method, which in turn was based on real, actual life that bloody well happened. The story follows the career of renowned psychiatrist Carl Jung (Michael Fassbender), genital obsessed beardo Sigmund Freud (Viggo Mortensen) and Sabina Spielrein (Keira Knightley), a woman who went from a certified maniac to becoming one of the first female psychoanalysts. Having only a passing knowledge of Jungian and Freudian principles and no previous knowledge at all of Spielrein, I felt the story was immersive, but only up to a certain point. I wanted to know more about Sabina, but had to deal with Jung and Freud debating whether everything boiled down to cocks or not. Both Fassbender and Mortensen were great, with the mercurial Mortensen giving an especially enigmatic turn as Freud. Less great is Knightley, who spends the first act of the film gurning and maniacally laughing like real mental patients don't. I have yet to be convinced by a Knightley performance and her appearance in A Dangerous Method doesn't do anything to change that. She's not necessarily a bad actor, just bad at making me forget she's an actor. Vincent Cassel also shows up, having a whale of a time as the philandering, polyamorous Otto Gross.

A Dangerous Method is basically a stage play writ large. There's nothing inherently cinematic about it and the film seems to work best when the various brainy people are endlessly arguing the inner workings of the mind and psyche. I liked some of the ideas the film toyed with and especially liked Jung's turmoil over his relationship with Speilrein. The mentor/friend/rival relationship between Freud and Jung was well done too. To me, repression is the big central theme of the film, with Sabina's BDSM leanings being too shocking to even consider in the early 1900s. Jung's repression is also important, with him struggling to contain his wild side and having to choose between animalistic rutting and spanking with Spielrein or the more socially acceptable nicey-nicey family life with his obscenely rich wife.

I just don't know what to really think of A Dangerous Method. It's well acted (for the most part) and deals with some interesting concepts. It made me want to find out more about the real story and the people, but I wasn't exactly entertained watching it. There's no sense of Cronenberg in this film and it could have been made be any number of the more “arty” directors out there. It's technically brilliant, but ultimately unsatisfying.

Ben Browne

Rating:15
UK DVD/Blu-Ray Release: 25th June 2012
Directed by:David Cronenberg
cast:Keira Knightley, Viggo Mortensen, Michael Fassbender, Vincent Cassel
Buy:A Dangerous Method On DVD or Blu-ray

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EIFF 2012: Brake Review

★★★1/2☆

Stephen Dorff stars in Gabe Torres' claustrophobic thriller, Brake, which proves to be far more than another Buried. Receiving its UK premiere at this years' Edinburgh International Film Festival, Brake provides some highly entertaining B-Movie thrills alongside another stellar performance from Dorff.

Secret Service agent, Jeremy Reins (Dorff) wakes up trapped in the boot (or trunk, for the non-Brits) of a car, with no recollection as to how he got there. Reins is forced to endure a series of physical and mental tortures as terrorists attempt to extract the location of Roulette, the President's secret bunker.

Tim Mannion's screenplay may not be the most original piece of writing in recent years, with obvious parallels to Rodrigo Cortes' Buried being raised. However, Mannion does attempt to deviate from his predecessor with the inclusion of some well contained action. We're talking shootouts, flooding and bees (calm down Wicker Man '06 fans), all just some of the high-octane antics that you can expect from Brake. These thrills combined with Torres' tense, claustrophobic direction, make Brake, a enthralling, well contained action film. You have got to hand it to a team that can make eighty-five minutes of film set in one claustrophobic location, this engaging.

As the only actor on screen throughout the majority of Brake, Stephen Dorff truly excels in his performance, both physically and emotionally. The viewers' gaze rests firmly on the Somewhere star, feeling totally connected to the character of Jeremy - we are with him during this whole ordeal. Even when handling some atrocious dialogue or Jack Bauer style screams, Dorff's performance retains a sincerity and likeability whilst also managing to stay convincing as an action hero, surely no easy task when you are confined to a Perspex box.

As well as the clichés to be found in Brake's dialogue, they can also be seen through several narrative features like Jeremy's remorseful phone call to his distant wife or through Tom Berenger's shady CIA big shot character. However, Brake does make up for this with some unexpected paranoia-infused twists lurking in its conclusion.

Brake is an enjoyably tense thriller, boasting a stellar performance from the inimitable Stephen Dorff. Several high-octane thrills and an unexpected conclusion ensures that Torres' claustrophobic film is a completely worthwhile watch.

Andrew McArthur

Release: 29th June 2012 (EIFF)
Director: Gabe Torres Stars: Stephen Dorff, Chyler Leigh ,Tom Berenger,

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Win Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisi​e Posters

In celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the film’s original release,STUDIOCANAL and the ICO are very pleased to announce that they will be releasing a re-mastered digital print of Luis Buñuel’s surreal comedy THE DISCREET CHARM OF THE BOURGEOISIE in cinemas on June 29th, including an Extended Run at BFI Southbank as part of their Jean-Claude Carrière season. Carrière has written the screenplays for many classic films including:  Belle de Jour, The Milky Way, Cyrano de Bergerac, The Tin Drum, La Piscine, Sommersbyand The Unbearable Lightness of Being. He is an Oscar winner for the short filmHappy Anniversary. To celebrate the upcoming re-release of this fantastic film courtesy of Studiocanal we have 3 posters to give away (see above for artwork)

In Luis Buñuel’s deliciously satiric masterpiece, six pillars of society repeatedly try to have dinner together, their plans interrupted by events both real (scheduling mix-ups, a restaurateur's death) and increasingly surreal (including a series of typically Buñuellian dream sequences).Jean-Pierre Cassel, Delphine Seyring, Stéphane Audran, Bulle Ogier and long-time Buñuel collaborators Fernando Rey and Paul Frankeurhead the extraordinary cast of a film made when Buñuel was 72 years old. Full of passion and fire, it was the 1972 Oscar winner for Best Foreign Film and BAFTA winner for Best Screenplay.

Alternately laugh-out-loud funny and disquietingly bizarre THE DISCREET CHARM OF THE BOURGEOISIEremains one of Buñuel's most popular films.

To this fantastic piece of artwork answer the following question:

Q.What was the name of the next film Luis Bunuel Directed After this film?

A.The Phantom Of Liberty

B. Tristana

C.Belle De Jour

Send your answer , name, address, to have your email to  cinehouseuk@gmail.com header As ‘bunuel’. Deadline:July 15 th, 2012 (2359hrs) .

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THE DISCREET CHARM OF THE BOURGEOISIE will be in cinemas on June 29th,then on DVD, and for the first time on blu-ray, on July 16th 2012.

Terms and Conditions

• This prize is non-transferable.
• No cash alternatives apply.
• UK & Irish entries only
  The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse and studiocanal have the right to alter, delay or cancel this competition without any notice
• The competition is not opened to employees, family, friends of The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse, Studiocanal employees
• This competition is promoted on behalf of Studiocanal.
• The Prize is to win The Discreet Charm of The Bourgeoisie on poster
• To enter this competition you must send in your answer, name, address only, Deadline July 15th, 2012 (2359hrs)
• Will only accept entries sent to the correct email (cinehouseuk@gmail.com), any other entry via any other email will be void.
• The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse takes no responsibility for delayed, lost, stolen prizes
• The competition is opened to Aged 13  and over 
• Unless Stated Please  Do Not Include Telephone Numbers, we don’t need them
• The winning entries will be picked at random and contacted by email
• By sending your entry for this competition you are confirming you have read and agreed to these Terms & Conditions.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
UK Competitions and Prize Draws at UKwins
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Mischa Rozema's SUNDAYS Short Needs Your Help

Here at cinehouse (and at times The Peoples Movies) we do get alot Kickstarter film projects, we try our best to cover most if not all them. Today's project was spotted by our Canadian friends at Twitch and one type of short film we adore is horror, sci-fi (we love genres though) especially and Mischa Rozema's SUNDAYS does seem to fill our fix. The Amsterdam based commercial director hopes her Sci-fi short will soon become a full feature a story built around the idea that one day a computer based intelligence will exceed a human one arriving via a technological singularity.

Visually this looks great, storyline decent my only concern like many people with great short films can the story be easily adapted or will it be overstretched? Whatever you think you can check out the film below and below that read the kickster information. You can support the film here.

Sundays (working title) is a feature film idea created and written by Dutch commercials director Mischa Rozema. It is a project he has been living and sleeping with for the past years. It is the result of stories inhabiting his head, images that need to be visualised and the the desire to create a film completely different to anything we’ve seen before. The story is there, so is the research. What we are asking your help with is the opportunity to create a short film - the first step on the path to realising a feature film - using the skills and passion of Mischa and his team at PostPanic and Savage.
We're raising money through Kickstarter to make this short film. We want to show what is visually possible when creative integrity is closely guarded from the beginning. We don’t want to risk diluting Mischa’s vision by 3rd parties forcing him to become more mainstream and commercial. We want to show what he is capable of as a storyteller when he has complete control over the direction.

What is 'Sundays' about?
We are fast approaching an event, unparalleled in our history. A tipping point known as a technological singularity. It's the moment when computer power surpasses human intelligence. This moment is inevitable. Our world will change forever.
We are on the verge of having to decide the future of humanity. In order to maintain we might have to change the very definition of what it means to be human. So what exactly is 'human'? Where does it begin and where does it stop. Are we willing to stretch its definition and our ethics to corners we never could have imagined. Is there an infinite deadline on our existence?
This is the story of what it means to be human and how the characteristics of what makes us special stand the test of time. It's evident that technologies are now tied to our evolution as a species. Does our biology define us as human beings or is it the ideals for which humanity stands for?

Liliana Cavani’s THE NIGHT PORTER Getting UK Blu-Ray& DVD Release This July

Love it or hate it's been released this July on DVD and Blu Ray in UK&;Ireland Liliana Cavani’s THE NIGHT PORTER(Il portiere di notte). One of the most shocking and controversial movies ever made, this scintillatingly sexy story of forbidden love and the aphrodisiacal effects of decadence and cruelty comes to Blu-ray for the first time in the UK. The film by many critics was slated eroticising Nazi iconography as well as been 'pro-fascist', it kick-started the 'Naziplotation' sub genre too which saw a barrage of similar nazi themed sex films too.

Vienna, 1957. Max (Dirk Bogarde), a former Nazi concentration camp officer, is now employed as a respectable night porter at one of the city's most luxurious hotels. Still anguished by the guilt of his actions during the war, he attempts to relieve his conscience by devoting himself to his work while awaiting the upcoming trial of himself and his fellow Nazi officers. But one fateful evening Max's disturbing past catches up with him in the form of the beautiful and alluring Lucia (Charlotte Rampling). Now the wife of a respected American classical composer, almost 15 years earlier Lucia was a teenage concentration camp inmate and Max's lover in an aberrant sado-masochistic relationship. Bound by their memories and uncontrollably drawn to each other, Max and Lucia rekindle their bizarre love affair. But their future together becomes threatened by other ghosts from the past…

Despite having long divided critical and public opinion due to its shocking subject matter and imagery (respected critic Roger Ebert famously described it as “as nasty as it is lubricious, a despicable attempt to titillate us by exploiting memories of persecution and suffering. It is – I know how obscene this sounds – Nazi chic.”) The Night Porter is a courageous and uncompromising piece of filmmaking that has come to be regarded as a classic of European cinema. Comparable to Visconti’s “The Damned”, Bertolucci’s “The Conformist” and Tinto Brass’ “Salon Kitty”, this is a powerful cinematic experience that, once seen is impossible for forget.

The Night Porter will be released on DVD & Blu-ray on July 30th thanks to Anchor Bay Pre order your copy on DVD or Blu-ray

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【TRAILER】The Night Porter Published via LongTail.tv

EIFF 2012: Red Band And International Trailer For V/H/S

This coming week here at Cinehouse (& The Peoples Movies) one of the films we're really looking forward too is the screening of Horror Anthology V/H/S. The film looks like it might potentially give the found footage a kick back into popular cinema bringing together 6 of the best /some upcoming horror directors Ti West (House Of The Devil, The Innkeepers), Adam Wingard and Simon Barret (A Horrible Way To Die), David Bruckner (The Signal), Joe Swanberg (Silver Bullets), Glenn McQuaid (I Sell The Dead).

The premise of the story is about a gang of  criminals who are hired to break into a house to steal a VHS tape. To find the tape the gang must trawl through the large collection tapes on offer  watching them one by one watching everything from masked killers, vivisection, sexy female vampire, lots of blood, screaming and did I say screaming? Wishing they probably never watched them! The past few days a red band trailer has found its way online really showcasing the chaos, the shock and screams that lie ahead for the viewer with each director providing a little vignette probably catch some viewers unexpectedly too.

The film has been picking up some great buzz on the festival circuit and this week the film will arrive in UK and Edinburgh Film Festival(stayed tuned for our review) which at the moment is the films only UK date.Once we get word on when this scaremonger of a beast of a film will arrive in blightly we will share the good news with you, our inklings are that the films next UK viewing will be London Film4 Frighfest! It would be a good bet late Ocotber onwards we will see this one be released in UK however August 31st for VOD and October 5th theatrical release dates for USA !

Whilst creating this post the good people at Traileraddict have posted the International trailer for the film which is posted below

 source Yahoo

EIFF 2012: Don't Expect Too Much

Mark Hamill Going AIRBOURNE This July

Hell quite literally breaks loose at 30,000 feet as passengers on board a Trans-Atlantic bound for New York come face-to-face with an ancient evil. But wait we have a Jedi Master on hand so will the terrified passengers be rescued only one way to find out is to watch Mark Hamill's  first stint in front of the camera in many years in Brittish chiller AIRBOURNE.

As a severe storm front rapidly closes in on the UK, all flights out of East Midlands airport are cancelled – all save Atlantic Sky Airways Flight 686, bound for New York. Shortly after take-off, several passengers become concerned when one of their number inexplicably goes missing. Their anxieties are further increased when it becomes apparent that the flight has veered off course and it is revealed that the plane is carrying an interesting item of cargo: a rare and extremely valuable ancient Chinese vase. The assumption is that terrorists are responsible, but nobody on board is showing their hand – for now. With tensions rising amongst the passengers and crew, violence soon breaks out, forcing those behind the deadly plot to expose their identities.

Meanwhile, on the ground, concerned aviation chiefs and the military have together authorised the launch of fighter jets to deal with what they believe could be a deadly hijack situation. But hijacking is soon proved to be the least of anybody’s worries when the owner of the vase recounts a myth surrounding its ancient origins.

In the fine tradition of other high-altitude thrillers such as“Executive Decision”, “Snakes On A Plane”, “Passenger 57”, “Red Eye” and “Con Air” and the winner of the British Lion Award at the 2012 British Independent Film Festival, Airborne is a Twilight Zone-esque thriller with a hint of the supernatural and some amazing production values that, for us, places it leagues ahead of what we’ve come to expect from the usual “gangster flick-centric” British indie genre movies. To top it off, it also features a welcome return to the screen for Mark Hamill who in recent years has almost been reclusive while establishing himself as one of the most in-demand voiceover artists in the business. 

Airbourne will be terrifying British skies when it's released by Chelsea Films on DVD July 30th (new release date). The film also stars  Julian Glover (Games Of Thrones), Gemma Atkinson (Boogie Woogie), Simon Phillips (The Rise And Fall Of A White Collar Hooligan), Alan Ford (Snatch), and Fiona Ryan (The Tudors).

EIFF 2012: PUSHER (2012) Review

★★★★☆

Luis Prieto's British made update of Nicolas Winding Refn's 1996 film, Pusher, receives its world premiere at this year's Edinburgh International Film Festival. The Spanish director has presented us with a gripping, adrenaline fuelled ride, which is by far one of the most exciting British crime thrillers in recent years. Frank (Richard Coyle) may just be London's most unlucky drug dealer. After a deal goes horrendously wrong, he finds himself owing a ruthless Serbian crime boss over £55,000. In a desperate search for money, Frank soon finds his life spiralling out of control and relationships with those around him beginning to crumble.

It is hard to deviate from certain traditional elements in this genre, for example, risky deals and unrelenting Mr. Big figures are always going to feature. However, these elements feel utterly fresh and skilfully handled in Pusher, thanks to Prieto's energy as a storyteller. The Spanish director's film feels like a fusion of the classic British crime thriller (Coyle's performance drawing some parallels to that of Stacey Keach in 1977 feature, The Squeeze), with an added vibrant, modern twist.

The tension rarely drops in Pusher, creating a truly gripping ride. This is furthered by Simon Dennis' striking cinematography - creating a visually impressive piece taking on pulsing neon infused clubs to dank warehouses, with equal impact. Pusher also captures the ruthless and gritty criminal underworld of London through Frank's encounters with Serbian crime Boss, Milo (Zlatko Buric, star of Refn's original Pusher Trilogy) - most notably in one suspenseful scene involving bolt cutters and a finger. The high octane thrills are paired with a energetic electronic dance score from Orbital, fitting the tone of Pusher perfectly.

Even Pusher's day by day narrative structure acts as reflection of Frank's impending deadline, ebbing closer. This means it is hard not to feel part of the dealers' journey as he uses every resource he has to get money - whether it be calling in on old loans from vulnerable customers or simply by taking it from the sleaziest clients. Even Pushers' emotive conclusion is cut off in the height of anguish and tension, leaving the viewer to question the outcome.

Richard Coyle's solid lead performance thrusts us into the desperation and angst that faces the character, however, we as the audience are always on his side. Agyness Dean's supporting turn as Frank's girlfriend, Flo, proves equally flawless. Flo simply wants a better life for herself and Frank - she works as a dancer and escort, careers that are beneath her, and as viewer you want to see her and Frank happy. Zlatko Buric's intense performance as Milo also proves to be a chief scene stealer throughout Pusher.

Luis Prieto's Pusher proves to be an exhilarating, thrill ride that holds the viewer in a vice-like grip from start to finish. The vibrant cinematography combined with an outstanding lead performance from Richard Coyle and a razor sharp score from Orbital, help make Pusher one of the strongest British crime thrillers in recent years.

Andrew McArthur

Rating: 18
UK Release Date: 12th October 2012 (World Premiere Edinburgh 21st June 2012)
Director: Luis Prieto
Stars: Richard Coyle, Agyness Deyn , Zlatko Buric, Paul Kaye

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EIFF 2012: Fred Review

★★★★☆

Richard Ledes' heartfelt drama, Fred, receives its world premiere at this year's Edinburgh International Film Festival, and this poignant feature is likely to strike an emotional chord with many of us.   

Elliott Gould stars as Fred, an elderly man living in his house of over fifty years, with his Alzheimer's suffering wife, Susan (Judith Roberts).  Fred's grown-up children (Fred Melamed and Stephanie Roth Haberle) try to convince him to move to a care home with Susan, but he is not ready to leave yet.  

Fred is a delicately handled film, with Ledes directing in an almost fly on the wall style. As a viewer, we feel part of the family's most intimate moments, which results in a completely absorbing watch. It is impossible not to get drawn in as the family sing Susan's favourite songs to her or reminisce with Fred.

Alongside some striking cinematography from Valentina Caniglia, Ledes has the ability to make almost any shot seem poignant and heartfelt. This is at its most prevalent through shots of the slow withering of the exterior of Fred's home or the near spiritual representation of the nature that surrounds it.

Ledes' screenplay is a wonderful fusion of deadpan comedy (mostly courtesy of the perfectly timed comic skills of Gould and Melamed) and touching drama. Fred also has its share of challenging moments - it is difficult to watch Fred's struggle with his wife's condition as he also attempts to battle his own ailing health. This is shown in one such sequence where Fred attempts to make Susan grip the telephone, but loses his temper at her inability to do so.

Fred reflects issues that are likely to strike a chord with many of us, excelling in its delicate portrayal of the aging process. These well crafted characters ensure the viewer feels the dilemma of Fred's children, as well as empathising with Fred's desire to grasp to his independence at home. These issues are perfectly represented from a wonderful cast.

Judith Roberts truly excels in her turn as Susan, a strong willed woman that the audience completely warm to. Seeing Susan coping with the struggles of everyday life and finding joy with her loved ones, amidst the effects of Alzheimers is heart warming.  Elliott Gould is perfectly cast in the title role, shining through welcome moments of humour, as well as more emotionally heavy scenes. Fred Melamed, impresses greatly with his deadpan wit, whilst Stephanie Roth Haberle gives a touching performance as Fred's exasperated daughter.

Fred is a delicately crafted and heartfelt portrayal of the aging process. The combination of touching drama and deadpan humour alongside stellar performances from the main players, proves a winning combination.

Andrew McArthur

Stars: Elliott Gould, Judith Roberts, Fred Melamed , Stephanie Roth Haberle
Director: Richard Ledes
Release: 22nd June 2012 (EIFF)

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