Recent Films...

Recent viewings in Brisbane; Casino Royale, terrific scenery, action, too long, not my favourite genre, twice thought it was ending, disappointed when it didn't,3/5. We saw Borat with our Dutch visitor Han. We all loved it, a must-see in my book. 4/5 for sheer guts and originality, let alone balls. The Queen, fascinating, Helen Mirren, who attended my mother's school (St Bernard's, Southend on Sea), brilliant; Rene, (anti monarchist) irritated beyond words, I loved the whole thing, 4/5. Mrs Palfrey at the Clairmont was delightful, nice way to pass and hour or two. Another film Rene didn't want to see (not his genre). I loved it, but why do the old characters in these films always end up dying? Kay and I saw this in a suburban cinema in Graceville and the film was interrupted by horny possums racing across the tin roof - most amusing. 3/5. Volver, always love Spanish film, engrossing, 4.5/5. Saw it at the new Dendy Portside, a 5 screen complex at the new cruise terminal near us. Marvellous movie. Can't believe Penelope Cruz wore a prosthetic arse to make her figure more provincial Spanish. Little Miss Sunshine - laughed like a drain, scene with cop pulled up on freeway had me in stitches, Toni Collete of course shone along with Alan Arkin; Prarie Home Companion was delightful, American friends filled me in on the show before hand (it helped), was enthralled all the way through, 4/5; Devil Wears Prada had me fascinated from opening five minutes, loved it, Rene not too impressed, I gave it 3.5/5. Finally, for now, Marie Antionette, a sorry excuse for the expenditure of millions. I know the story, been to Versailles twice, especially her little farm set way back in the grounds (no reference to it at all in the film except using it for locations), all in all a shallow, glossy film of splendid locales but zero depth. 2/5. Rene was right in not bothering to see it. Yet to see Babel, coming next week on my schedule. Oh, Happy Feet also, co written by a lady from my city here in Queensland. Looks great on the large screen. At least there are some films still being made in Australia.