Sunday 26 July 2020

Review: Midway

Epic World War II movie covering a key battle in the Pacific as well as a few other skirmishes leading up to it.  The action is thrillingly staged and improvements in CGI since Pearl Harbour makes it a much more involving and tense watch.  Unlike many war movies covering the era, it does make a bit of an attempt to cover the other side's perspective.

Interestingly, it does not have any standout casting - but plenty of recognisable faces from a variety of TV and films - often looking rather older and craggier than usual.

Some plot lines are not especially well wrapped up suggesting that an even longer version of the film likely exists. There are a few other oddities like this. For example, I did not manage to put a name to one of the main characters - square jawed hero, Dick Best (yes, really!) until a good way into the film.

Overall: A few awkward elements aside, this was a decent watch.

Saturday 25 July 2020

Review: The Adjustment Bureau

Apparently inspired by a Philip K. Dick story, The Adjustment Bureau certainly captures the essential vibe of his work. Damon plays something like the everyman in this story whose life is turned upside down one day by the discovery that his and everyone else's life are subject to manipulation by hidden forces - which may or may not be angels working at the behest of a deity.

The film does a great job of showcasing New York although central park is conspicuously absent.  Damon is as solid as ever, and has great chemistry with Blunt - a chance encounter with whom risks everything.

In a nutshell: If you've ever wondered if the world revolved around you...