Thursday 29 September 2011

Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes (2011)

Much better than I had hoped. Surprisingly dark and gritty, it feels tonally well placed in relation to the classic 1968 original and is anchored by magnificent performance capture work from, of course, Andy Serkis in the lead ape role. The film has less time for some of its human characters, of whom a couple of cliched supporting turns represent the films' only significant missteps. But these aside this is a solid piece of proper sci-fi with thrills, genuine emotional weight, and a stunning climax that is intense without ever feeling overblown.

Rating: 4/5

Cowboys And Aliens (2011)

Simple comic book adventure mash-up that is precisely as good, and bad, as the title concept suggests. There's little in this to really surprise or thrill. The story is perfunctory and motivations are minimal. But it does have James Bond and Indiana Jones striding around being cool and tough and gruff. Does exactly what is says on the tin.

Rating: 3/5

Super 8 (2011)

Great fun, warm and nostalgic tribute to childhood adventures from a simpler time. Endearing performances, effective slow build of thrills. Not so engaging once the big mystery has been fully revealed, resulting in the final denouement being rather less emotionally impactful than the 80's kids adventure masterpiece it so clearly wants to be. But it delivers plenty of old school charm and thrills along the way.

Rating: 4/5