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Showing posts from 2017

Finding Nemo (2003) VLOG

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Authors: Liana Tames, Zachary Storr, and Mitch Babbs. Finding Nemo (2003) Image Source: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Nemo-Pixar-Poster-Regular/dp/B004Z1LRBQ Introduction Our group consisting of Liana Tames, Zachary Storr and Mitch Babbs, have created a Vlog covering a movie review of Finding Nemo (2003). Our video is 3 minutes long as we cover the cast, plot summary, and production value of the film as well as our thoughts and ratings of the film. Contributions To The Video 1st Speaker: Zachary Storr spoke about the cast of the film. 2nd Speaker: Liana Tames spoke about the plot summary of the film. 3rd Speaker: Mitch Babbs spoke about the production value of the film, as well as editing the video. We each filmed our own parts for the video. Vlog

Jack and Jill (2011) - Review

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Author: Mitchell Babbs Jack and Jill 2011 Movie Cover https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/99/Jack_and_jill_film_poster.jpg Thanksgiving is usually a happy time, but ad executive Jack (Adam Sandler) dreads the holiday because his twin sister, Jill (also Sandler), makes her annual visit. When Jack and his sister get off on the wrong foot, the only way to make it right is to invite her to stay through Hanukkah. But, when a ctor Al Pacino (Al Pacino), whom Jack desperately needs to star in a commercial, takes a shine to Jill, Jack may be forced to extend his sister's visit even longer. Cast Directed by Dennis Dugan and written by Ben Zook. The acting cast consists of Adam Sandler, Al Pacino, Katie Holmes, Elodie Tougne, Rohan Chand, Eugenio Derbez, David Spade, Nick Swardson, Tim Meadows, Allen Covert and Dan Patrick. These actors and writers co-ooperate to create what is known to be the worst movie of all time. Plot Summary Jack Sadelstein is a success

Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005) Review

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Author: Liana Tames Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005) Poster Image Source: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/93/Star_Wars_Episode_III_Revenge_of_the_Sith_poster.jpg The final film in the Star Wars Prequel Trilogy, Episode III - Revenge of the Sith, set three years after Episode II. Anakin is now a Jedi Knight, Obi-Wan is a Jedi Master, and the Clone Wars are still raging on. Episode III showed Anakin's transformation into the villain Darth Vader and his embrace of the Dark Side. Cast Directed by George Lucas with a cast consisting of Hayden Christensen, Natalie Portman, Ewan McGregor, Samuel L. Jackson, Christopher Lee, and Ian McDiarmid. They reprise their respective roles for the last time in the prequel trilogy. Plot Summary It has been three years since the Clone Wars began. Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) and Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) rescue Chancellor Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid) from General Grievous,

The Conjuring (2013)

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Author: Zachary Storr Image Source: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1457767/mediaviewer/rm1035247872 The Conjuring is a 2013 American Supernatural Horror movie. It is the first movie of a potential trilogy of movies, with the second being released in 2016. Paranormal Investigators visit a farmhouse after the family report increasing disturbing events. Cast Directed by James Wan and starring an array of cast members including; Partick Wilson, Vera Farmiga and Lili Taylor. Whilst perhaps not starring one of the more commonly known 'A-listers' of Hollywood, the cast combine to create a rather well rounded set of characters that allow us as the viewer to feel as though we are right there with them, which in turn makes the movie even scarier. Plot Summary After moving to a farmhouse with their 5 children, their family dog refuses to enter the house. All of the clocks in the house stop at 3:07am, and sadly the dog is found dead in the back yard. The family hear strange no

Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002) Review

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Author: Liana Tames Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002) Poster Image Source: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/32/Star_Wars_-_Episode_II_Attack_of_the_Clones_%28movie_poster%29.jpg The second film in the Star Wars Prequel Trilogy, Episode II - Attack of the Clones, fast forwards ten years after the events of Episode I, Anakin is now an apprentice under Obi-Wan Kenobi. The film is an improvement in computer generated effects, plot, and character development compared to the first film in the trilogy. Cast Directed by George Lucas with a cast consisting of Hayden Christensen, Natalie Portman, Ewan McGregor, and Samuel L. Jackson. They reprise their respective roles from Episode I, with Hayden Christensen now playing the role of Anakin Skywalker as a young adult. Plot Summary Set ten years after the events of "The Phantom Menace," the Republic continues to be mired in strife and chaos. A separatist movement encompassing hundreds of planets

The King's Speech (2010)

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Author: Zachary Storr Image Source: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1504320/mediaviewer/rm2947187712 The Kings Speech is a 2010 British Historical Drama Movie directed by Tom Hooper. Based on true events regarding King George IV who famously had a stammer. With the help of an Australian speech therapist named Lionel Logue, can King George IV overcome his stammer before he has to make his first wartime radio broadcast. Cast Starring Colin Firth as King George IV and Geoffrey Rush as Lionel Logue. Whilst being third choice, Colin Firth excels in his role as King George IV. Additionally Geoffrey Rush seems to suit his role as the Australian WWI veteran who, whilst having no medical training, it the only person who has been able to aid the future King of England. Plot Summary When he is about to become King, (Colin Firth) seeks the help of Australian speech and language therapist in order to beat his stammer before he must make public appearances. Whilst primarily becom

Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999) Review

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Author: Liana Tames Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (1999) Poster Image Source: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/40/Star_Wars_Phantom_Menace_poster.jpg The first film in the infamous Star Wars Prequel Trilogy, titled Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace, adding further confusion the the Star Wars film sequence. With George Lucas returning as director, the Phantom Menace takes us to a time before the original characters where the story focuses on a boy named Anakin Skywalker, Luke's father. Cast Directed by George Lucas with a new cast consisting of Jake Llyod, Natalie Portman, Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, and Samuel L. Jackson. They take on the roles of a young Anakin Skywalker,  Padmè Amidala, Qui-Gon Jinn, and a young Obi-Wan Kenobi. Plot Summary Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) is a young apprentice Jedi knight under the tutelage of Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson) ; Anakin Skywalker (Jake Lloyd), who will later father Luke Skywalker and become known as Darth

Shutter Island (2010) - Review

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Author: Mitchell Babbs Shutter Island 2010 Movie Cover https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/7/76/Shutterislandposter.jpg The implausible escape of a brilliant murderess brings U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his new partner (Mark Ruffalo) to Ashecliffe Hospital, a fortress-like insane asylum located on a remote, windswept island. The woman appears to have vanished from a locked room, and there are hints of terrible deeds committed within the hospital walls. As the investigation deepens, Teddy realises he will have to confront his own dark fears if he hopes to make it off the island alive. Cast Directed by Martin Scorsese and written by Laeta Kalogridis the movie is based off the original novel  written by Dennis Lehane. The acting cast consists of Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley, Max von Sydow, Michelle Williams, Emily Mortimer, Patricia Clarkson, Jackie Earle Haley and Ted Levine. Plot Summary U.S. Marshall, Teddy, and hi

Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983) Review

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Author: Liana Tames Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983) Review Image Source: https://lumiere-a.akamaihd.net/v1/images/Star-Wars-Return-Jedi-VI-Poster_a10501d2.jpeg?region=12%2C9%2C618%2C982&width=480 The third film in the original Star Wars trilogy numbered as Episode 6, although it was the third film made, was a slight disappointment in the original three episodes. After coming after the best and most emotional episode, it didn't live up to the standards set by the fifth episode. But it was a triumphant finale for these characters journey filled with action and excitement. Cast Directed by Richard Marquand with a returning cast consisting of Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Harrison Ford, and David Prowse. They reprise their respective roles for what they think is the last time in the last of the original trilogy of Star Wars films, that will shape popular culture for years to come. Plot Summary Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) battles horrible Jabba the Hut a

Goodnight Mommy (2014)

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Author: Zachary Storr Image Source: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3086442/mediaviewer/rm2094328064 Goodnight Mommy is a 2014 Horror-Thriller by Autrian pair, Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala. The movie is based on Capgras Syndrome of Identical twin boys. Selected as Austria's entry for 'Best foreign language film' but was not nominated at the 88th Academy Awards. Cast Starring Susanne West as the mother, and the Schwarz twins; Elias and Lukas, who play Elias and Lukas respectively. The cast is composed of Austrian actors and actresses as it is both shot in Austria and the few spoken words within the movie are spoken in German. (English subtitles are available) Plot Summary After a mother returning home, to her two 10 year old identical twin boys, after facial surgery that leaves her face covered in bandages. The two twin boys become convinced that she has been replaced by an identical imposter. This is known as Capgras Syndrome or Capgras delusion. After b

Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980) Review

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Author: Liana Tames Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980) Poster Image Source: https://lumiere-a.akamaihd.net/v1/images/Star-Wars-Empire-Strikes-Back-V-Poster_878f7fce.jpeg?region=25%2C22%2C612%2C953&width=480 George Lucas' second film in the Star Wars franchise, although named Episode 5 to the confusion to many people to this day, was the second film created in the series. It is one of the best films in the original trilogy, and containing some of the most iconic moments in film history. Cast Directed by Irvin Kershner with a returning cast consisting of Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Harrison Ford, and David Prowse. They continue to bring the characters of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, and Darth Vader to life. Plot Summary The adventure continues in this "Star Wars" sequel. Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) and Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew) face attack by the Imperial forces and its

Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977) Review

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Author: Liana Tames Star Wars (1977) Poster Image Source: https://imgc.allpostersimages.com/img/print/posters/star-wars-episode-iv-new-hope-classic-movie-poster_a-G-9385455-0.jpg?w=632&h=950 George Lucas' classic that started a franchise that would last for generations, Star Wars, later renamed Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope, is a classic film that has shaped popular culture as we know it today. It has created one of the biggest and well known film franchises that still continues today. It was a film that brought viewers to a world of adventure and exploration. Cast Directed by George Lucas with a cast consisting of Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Harrison Ford, and David Prowse. They create an unforgettable and iconic story with characters that will be loved for generations to come. Plot Summary The Imperial Forces -- under orders from cruel Darth Vader (David Prowse) -- hold Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) hostage, in their efforts to quell the rebellion against th

Avatar (2009) Review

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Author: Mitchell Babbs Avatar 2009 Movie Cover Image Source: https://www.movieposter.com/posters/archive/main/98/MPW-49246 AVATAR takes us to a spectacular world beyond imagination, where a reluctant hero embarks on an epic adventure, ultimately fighting to save the alien world he has learned to call home. James Cameron, the Oscar-winning director of Titanic, first conceived the film 15 years ago, when the means to realize his vision did not exist yet. Now, after four years of production, AVATAR, a live action film with a new generation of special effects, delivers a fully immersive cinematic experience of a new kind, where the revolutionary technology invented to make the film disappears into the emotion of the characters and the sweep of the story. Cast Directed and written by James Cameron. The acting cast consists of Australia's very own Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Michelle Rodriguez, Giovanni Ribisi and Joel David Moore. The ca

Shawshank Redemption

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Author: Zachary Storr  Image source: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0111161/mediaviewer/rm3597327872 The Shawshank Redemption is a 1994 drama movie by Frank Darabont. The movie follows two main characters; Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) and Ellis Boyd "Red" Redding (Morgan Freeman) on their quest for redemption within Shawshank State Prison. Cast Based on the Stephen King novella "Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption" and directed by Frank Darabont. Shawshank Redemption starred Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman. This was Frank Darabonts first major title and it was nominated for an array of awards including a Golden globe for best screenplay. Plot Summary The story follows Andy Dufresne who is sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his wife and her lover. After being sentenced to two life sentences at Shawshank State Prison Andy quickly becomes friends with "Red", a fellow inmate. Andy finds out that Red has connections and is

The Goonies (1985) Review

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Author: Mitch Babbs The Goonies (1985) Image Source:  https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51PWNDJTP1L._SY445_.jpg An action romance movie that is displays a bunch of misfit kids that decide to follow a map to find hidden treasure. They need to save their small town 'The Goon docks' from property developers. A one time film that has no other films that intertwine with it, a cult classic fit for all ages that everyone is sure to love. Cast Directed and written by Steven Spielberg with screenplay from Chris Columbus. The acting cast consists of Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Jeff Cohen, Corey Feldman, Kerri Green, Martha Plimpton, Jonathan Ke Quan and Robert Pantoliano. The cast as well as the widely famous director, writer and screenwriter Steven Spielberg co-operate to display a gripping adventure film about a mis-fit bunch of kids searching for treasure to save their town. Plot Summary Mikey (Sean Astin) when up in his attic with his misfit and g

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) Review

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Author: Liana Tames Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) Poster Image Source: http://a.dilcdn.com/bl/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2016/10/rogueone_onesheetA.jpg Gareth Edward's Rogue One delivers a dark and ernest twist compared to the classic Star Wars films. The stakes have been raised and no one in the rag-tag group of resistance fighters is safe on their race to find the plans to destroy the Death Star. Rogue One delivers some unexpected twists that you wouldn't expect from a Star Wars film. Cast Directed by Gareth Edwards, and written by George Lucas, Chris Weitz, Tony Gilroy. With a cast consisting of Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Mads Mikkelsen, and Ben Mendelsohn. They deliver an amazing performance throughout the film. Plot Summary Former scientist Galen Erso lives on a farm with his wife and young daughter, Jyn. His peaceful existence comes crashing down when the evil Orson Krennic takes him away from his beloved family. Many years later, Galen becomes the Em

Sharknado (2013) Movie Review

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Author: Zachary Storr Sharknado (2013) Image Source: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2724064/mediaviewer/rm465020160 Sharknado is a 2013 made-for-television science fiction disaster horror movie, that has produced 4 sequels to date. When a freak cyclone hits Los Angeles, Sharks are carried from the Seas and literally being to rain terror onto the people below. Whilst the movie was widely considered a flop, it has since become a cult classic. Maybe being so bad made it so good? Cast Directed by Anthony C. Ferrante and starring Tara Reid and Ian Ziering. Whilst these are not exactly the top 'A-list' celebrities, with the limited budget of the movie, the cast was chosen well and as they were lesser known actors/actresses meaning that this movie had the potential to propel them to Hollywood stardom. Plot Summary With a cyclone that is causing Sharks to rain down on the people of Los Angeles, the roads become flooded and thus infested with Sharks. Can our heroes f

The Giver (2014) Review

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Author: Mitch Babbs The Giver (2014) Image Source:  https://images-na.ssl-images amazon.com/images/M/MV5BMTY1MTIxMjg2Ml5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwMjUyNzgwMjE@._V1_UY1200_CR90,0,630,1200_AL_.jpg A sci-fi drama that is renown for depicting the good and bad of the modern world and society. Set in the future The Giver (2014) depicts a utopian society that restricts and forbids the citizens from understanding their true roots and where they came from. It depicts a corrupt government which creates chaos and angst for the young protagonist. Due to the multi-faceted story line, this film can be viewed as a romance, Sci-fi, drama, adventure and action movie depending on how the audience perceives it. Cast Directed by Philip Noyce and written by Michael Mitnick and Robert Weide. The acting cast consists of Meryl Streep, Katie Holmes, Taylor Swift, Brenton Thwaites, Alexander Skarsgard, Odeya Rush, and Cameron Monaghan. These A-List actors and big names assist the writers to display a me

Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) Review

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Author: Liana Tames Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) Image Source:  https://au.pinterest.com/pin/392868767466920272/ Indiana Jones' first adventure in the Raider of the Lost Ark is a timeless action-adventure masterpiece. The multi-award winning film has some of the most unforgettable scenes and music in film history. The amazing special effects and memorable characters create an adventure that is exciting and will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the film. Cast Directed by Steven Spielberg and written by George Lucas, the cast consists of Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, John Rhys-Davies, and Paul Freeman. The writing and the cast deliver an amazing performance that will immerse you into the exciting life of Indiana Jones. Plot Summary Renowned archeologist and expert in the occult, Dr. Indiana Jones, is hired by the U.S. Government to find the Ark of the Covenant, which is believed to still hold the ten commandments. Unfortunately, agents of Hitler are also aft

The Imitation Game (2014) Review

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Author: Zachary Storr  Image Source: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2084970/mediaviewer/rm1345992960 Based on real world events during WWII. The Imitation Game is a Historical Drama based on the biography by Andrew Hodges: "Alan Turing: The Enigma ". A cryptography team of mathematicians and linguistic specialists attempt to change the course of the second world war. Cast Directed by Norwegian film maker Morten Tyldum and starring Benedict Cumberbatch (Alan Turing) , Keira Knightley (Joan Clarke) and Charles Dance (Cdr. Alastair Denniston) among others. The cast was well suited to portraying each of their respective characters. Plot Summary During WWII the German's were using a device to send encrypted messages to one another. These messages were intercepted, yet nobody could decipher them. Tasked with breaking the 'Enigma Machine' Turings role would play a huge part on the outcome of the war. Production Value With a budget of $14mil

Jurassic Park (1993) Review

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Author: Liana Tames Jurassic Park (1993) Film Poster Image Source:  https://www.jurassicworlduniverse.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/jp1poster-01.jpg The phenomenally successful sci-fi adventure thriller, Jurassic Park, is one of the greatest blockbusters of all time and a cult classic. With state of the art special effects that still look real to this day, thrilling moments and light humour, it's a hard film not to love. Cast Directed by Steven Spielberg with a star cast consisting of Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Samuel L. Jackson and more. They deliver some of the most unforgettable and iconic moments in film history. Plot Summary In Steven Spielberg's massive blockbuster, paleontologists Alan Grant (Sam Neill) and Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) and mathematician Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) are among a select group chosen to tour an island theme park populated by dinosaurs created from prehistoric DNA. While the park's mastermind, billionair

Introduction

Who doesn't love a good movie! Welcome to our Blog where we will be reviewing many movies over the course of the semester. Let us introduce ourselves: Zachary Storr:   Currently Studying: Marine Science Favourite Movie Genre: Horror Liana Tames: Currently Studying: Information Technology - Game Design and Development Favourite Movie Genre: Sci-Fi Mitch Babbs: Currently Studying: Bachelor of Media Favourite Movie Genre: Comedy What defines a good movie? What makes one movie better than another? Is the movie affected more by the cast or the storyline? We will be reviewing the Movies in 3 areas; Cast  (Who is in the movie? Do they help it become a success?) Storyline  (How gripping was it, would you re-watch? etc.) Production Value (Did it look well made, visual effects etc.) We will be rating the movies out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐based on the 3 areas as mentioned above. We hope you enjoy!