movies with kirsty: kubo and the two strings

I went to the cinema yesterday on a whim to see Kubo and the Two Strings. I knew next to nothing about it, other than that it was made by Laika who also produced Coraline, one of my favourite animated movies. I had probably seen one, maybe two posters for it on the side of a bus. Once the film started rolling there were probably only around half a dozen people sharing the room with me. All I want to know is, why isn't this film getting more recognition? Why isn't it being advertised everywhere? Why isn't everyone having conversations about Kubo?

This film is honestly, truly magical. Never before has stop-motion seemed so beautiful, engaging and quite honestly breathtaking. If your childhood was comprised of watching every single episode of Wallace and Gromit (as mine was) and marvelling at the dedication of the artists once you discovered they were made out of clay, Laika is about to blow your mind. The sheer amount of detail is astounding; it is not just the people who are bursting with individuality and character but the animals, the buildings, the elements of water and fire, and of course Kubo's paper creations. Any previous problems with stop-motion animation have been resolved with the help of technology - the action taking place in front of a green screen allowing for smooth day to night transitions and explorations of all sorts of climates, whether it be a snowy tundra, tempestuous ocean storm or a hazy dreamland. The opening line of the whole film is 'If you must blink, do it now.' Indeed, the scenes that unfold in front of you will make you regret closing your eyes for even a second.

The story itself is also full of wonder and fantasy, although perhaps leans too far towards whimsy on occasion. It tells of young boy Kubo, hunted by his evil grandfather and aunts who wish to steal his other eye (they already succeeded in taking one when he was a baby) in order to make him immortal, yet unfeeling and heartless to the world. He must find his father's armour in order to defeat them, and is accompanied and helped along the way by a surly yet caring monkey, a forgetful yet charming man cursed to live as a beetle, and a small paper warrior who is mute yet helpful. In a nutshell, this is your typical hero's journey, complete with orphaned protagonist, comic relief sidekicks and plenty of convenient plot developments/deus ex machina. The film often makes reference to stories and their construction, Kubo as the 'hero', suggesting self-awareness, but in some points it is not too subtle, and seems like the writers just wanted to create a good story with a beginning, middle and end. There is a strong plot arc, even if it's resolved pretty quickly to make for a good conclusion. And there's nothing wrong with that - at the end of the day it is a family film. If you want something complex you can watch Memento.

The movie definitely benefits from its setting in ancient Japan, allowing for some satisfying details and magical realism to emerge. Kubo's enchanted shamisen (his stringed instrument) and origami-that's-not-quite-origami are two particularly fantastic elements which are both relevant to the plot and pay homage to traditional Japanese culture in a respectful way. Although it would have been especially brilliant if they had carried this on by casting more Japanese -or at least Asiatic- actors in major roles, those actually in the film do a good job. The emotive and imposing Ralph Fiennes is of course a particular stand-out as the Moon King - he just does a villain so well. Art Parkinson, recently of Game of Thrones is endearing and enjoyable as protagonist Kubo, despite his occasional slips in accent. And you'll be happy to know George Takei gets his signature 'oh myyyyy' in, although his character has very little dialogue. (Side note. Charlize Theron's voice is just way too sexy for a monkey.)

Overall, this is a simply stunning film, with themes of grief, family, destiny and retribution throughout. It will amaze you, amuse you, and it may even make you cry (I definitely shed a few tears at the end). If you're a parent, please take your kids to see it, and if you're not, go see it anyway. Supporting films like this is so important! They can't get made if we don't watch them.

Until next time,
Kirsty

movies with kirsty: the force awakens

First of all, breathe. If you've been worrying whether Episode VII will live up to the hype or not, set your mind at ease. For the first time in over 30 years, I think we can finally agree - Star Wars is back.

The traditional opening credits and music give you an immediate sense of familiarity that stays with you throughout the film. It's not just the reintroduction of the characters you know from the original trilogy; The Force Awakens induces a unique kind of déjà vu through plot points, in-jokes in the dialogue and even camera angles. Some people might argue that JJ Abrams is pandering to his audience with the sheer amount of fan service, but there's no denying that warm fuzzy feeling that the references give you.

Of course, it was unbelievably emotional seeing beloved characters like Han, Leia and Chewie on screen and back together again. But the new introductions did a remarkable job of slotting in to the formidable franchise and interacting with both each other and the veterans. John Boyega is a particular standout as Finn/FN-2187, revealing his uncertainty - and slight dorkiness - even in his initial introduction whilst wearing a Stormtrooper uniform. Oscar Isaac's Poe Dameron is instantly charming, although his motivations remain unclear along with complexities of character - by the end of the movie, he still appears to be just a damn swell guy and a great Resistance fighter pilot. Similarly, we are left with several questions about Rey, although Daisy Ridley's performance is sensitive and authentic.

Rey, Finn and of course the adorable BB8

Unless you've really done your research or are incredibly skilled at voice recognition, you'll be hard pushed to recognise big name actors such as Simon Pegg, Andy Serkis and Lupita Nyong'o, although I suppose they add more appeal - if that's even possible for perhaps the most publicised movie ever. I was also left slightly disappointed by the role of Captain Phasma, played by the delightful Gwendoline Christie. Her character's appearance on the poster is slightly misleading, as she has limited screen time and doesn't play a very active role as an antagonist. I suppose there's only so much you can fit in one movie!

Thankfully the Dark Side is well represented in the sneering General Hux, enigmatic Supreme Leader Snoke, and of course, our major villain Kylo Ren. Played by Adam Driver, he provides a multi-dimensional and complex villain for the Star Wars franchise - a refreshing change from the all-conquering 'I'm so evil' vibe of Vader (yeah so the prequels humanised him, whatever). I'm intrigued to see how the events of The Force Awakens take their toll on him in episode VIII.

every story needs a good old-fashioned villain with a cool black helmet and a cape

My favourite thing about this film was definitely how really, truly funny it was. Han Solo has always provided some witty and dry remarks, but he seems to have taken on more of his actor Harrison Ford's personality, becoming a hilariously grumpy old cynic. His interactions with new recruits Finn and Rey make for some great entertainment.

Admittedly, minute details are kind of glossed over in this film; the intentions and rulings of 'First Order' who are now in control remain out of focus, other than that they're obviously oppressive. However, it's true that jokes, fast action scenes and lightsaber battles are a lot more entertaining than talk about politics and dictatorships. Overall, JJ Abrams did a terrific job of reintroducing Star Wars to the world in a way that honoured the originals but created a fresh and exciting new film. I can't wait to see what will happen next - after all, this is only the beginning.

my holy trinity

Are you ever absolutely adamant that you don't have a 'type', then look at the celebrities you love and realise...wow, there are some serious similarities here. The plight of the misunderstood, soulful looking guy with good bone structure is one I have unfortunately fallen for several times over the years. This can be quite dangerous, as you become willing to forgive them for any and all faults - they're just so sensitive and different! But don't worry, my trinity does not include Kurt Cobain. And a word of warning: before you too get obsessed with any of these men, unfortunately none of them are with us any longer. You do not know true pain until you fall in love with someone who's already dead.

3. River Phoenix

I am convinced this man is a REAL LIFE ANGEL. Like most of the world, I first noticed him in Stand By Me (1986) playing teenage bad boy with a heart of gold Chris Chambers, and proceeded to fall hard for him. He made smoking look hot, which I was of course extremely ashamed about when I was 14. River went from strength to strength, picking up an Oscar nomination at the tender age of 18 for his stunning performance in Running on Empty (1988). Despite his obvious talent, he stayed humble and reserved, always saying how he truly wished to be a musician rather than an actor. River was also a dedicated activist, vegan and humanitarian. Although this all paints him as a well-behaved, class A citizen, it's difficult to judge his character completely, as he was very private and shy in interviews. To me, there's just something completely fascinating and captivating about him. Unfortunately, he died of a drug overdose when he was only 23 years old in 1993. Therefore, the majority of his thoughts, goals and aspirations will stay a mystery forever. 

2. Jeff Buckley

My parents were the ones who recommended I listen to the masterpiece that is Grace by the one and only Jeff Buckley. I was completely blown away - every song is a new experience, more often than not one that is decidedly spine-tingling and goosebump-inducing. To call his rendition of Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah a 'cover version' would be insulting; to me, all other versions are a pale imitation. (Although if you're curious, my favourite song of his is Lilac Wine...yeah, another cover) Anyway, what my parents failed to mention was that Buckley only ever released one album, as he died before releasing his second. But by then it was too late. As well as being musically talented, he was also intelligent, funny, eloquent and critical towards the media - basically all my favourite traits in one person. So of course I needed more of his angelic unique voice!!! Thankfully by scouring the internet I've found many demos, live versions and reject songs of his. It's just extremely upsetting to know that's all there will ever be. 

1. Heath Ledger

I had to save this one till last as sometimes I can burst into tears at the mere thought of Heath. It is a real problem. He earned a reputation as a heart-throb with little versatility in the Shakespeare-inspired teen comedy 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) but spent the rest of his career proving the critics wrong, appearing in an incredible variety of roles throughout the next decade. He earned an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Ennis Del Mar in Brokeback Mountain (2005) and won one for his daring, ground-breaking performance as The Joker in The Dark Knight (2008), although devastatingly it was awarded after his death. I genuinely cannot watch the clip of his win without having an emotional breakdown. Although I'm a huge Marvel fan, for me TDK is my favourite superhero/comic book movie, perhaps of all time, and it's all thanks to Heath. But my favourite thing about him is how down-to-earth and...normal he seemed. It's hard to explain what's so charming about his casual attitude and humour, so just read this. From stuff like that, you can tell he would keep his head through the ridiculous fame he would undoubtedly have achieved - if only he had stayed with us longer.

So I'm gonna go cry for a while now. Hope you enjoyed me gushing for a while! I'm aware this post was very cheesy and typical of a white teenage girl...but I've got some empowering ideas for some other posts in the future, I promise! Keep an eye out! 

2014 highlights

It's strange to think about but we only have one day left of 2014. This year has been a complete mixed bag of good and bad for me; without a doubt better than 2013, but I've got high hopes for next year to be a huge improvement. 2015 is going to be a year of progress for me - I'm leaving high school, leaving the place I've lived in all my life, making new friends and hopefully maintaining relationships that are the most important to me. But I didn't want to do that without reliving my personal best bits of this year - whether they be in pop culture or my own life. Get ready for a super long masterpost of 14 things that made my 2014.

Television in 2014

1. Sherlock - How It Was Done

I thought I had banished the fangirl side of me until this moment

Or to be more specific, this fucking kiss. If I'm being honest, I was much more impressed by the fan theories than Sherlock's real method. I'd been waiting for my explanation for 2 years but this kiss was better than anything. In typical Sherlock fashion the season was over before it had even begun, but what they did pack in was truly spectacular. Highlights for me have to be drug addict Sherlock, drunk Holmes/Watson, and of course any time Sherlock plays violin. My one true weakness. I'm still confused as to how I can love the writing of this show so much but have lost so much faith in Steven Moffat's other monster Doctor Who.

2. Great British Bake Off - #bingate

Was I the only one who shouted at the TV??? NO IAIN

I've always felt better about my passion for GBBO after going on twitter and seeing everyone on my timeline shamelessly loving it too, and this year was no different - especially after the most dramatic episode in the show's history. Usually this show is a cosy affair, the most risqué things being one of Mel and Sue's innuendos. But war was declared when Diana took Iain's ice cream out of the freezer, and on discovering the mess he promptly chucked it right in the bin. I have never seen my twitter timeline so angry and upset. The incident received almost an equal amount of complaints to the BBC as bias in the Israel/Palestine coverage. Although this might be slightly ridiculous, it still really showed how our nation will stand together in the face of injustice, even if it is just to start a hashtag.

3. Game of Thrones - The Children

As someone who is still to catch up on the books, the new season of Game Of Thrones was full of plot twists and shocks for me, and the final episode was no exception. I was so surprised by The Children, and by extension the whole season in general; usually the traumatic moments are revealed in episode 9 and the final episode gives us the aftermath effects. In season 4, the last three episodes just kept delivering, and we had developing plot lines right up to the last minute of episode 10. This season saw some incredible acting, the slow rise of my favourite character Sansa Stark, the scheming of many, the death of some of my most hated and most cherished (still not ready to talk about it) and what I believe to be the best monologue written for TV of the last few years. Watch it.

4. Supernatural - Fan Fiction

The 200th episode of Supernatural was entirely ridiculous, and everything I've ever wanted. It was truly an episode for the fans, bringing up moments from throughout the series and even bringing back a character from the dead (although if you watch this show, you'll know that nobody is ever really dead for long). It made me cry with direct quotes from the very first episode, and made me laugh with the writer's awareness of their own plotholes by making them the butt of jokes. And I'm not ashamed to say the original songs written for this episode were extremely catchy (A Single Man Tear, I'm looking at you.)

movies with kirsty: unorthodox romances

I feel like everybody's watching Titanic and The Notebook over and over again. Come on guys, we need to branch out. Stop kidding yourself. Channing Tatum isn't that hot and Dear John isn't even that good. So this post is dedicated to some of my favourite underdogs in the romance section; if you've not seen them, take my advice. PLEASE TRUST ME.

Take This Waltz (2011)

Ok, so I have no idea why I have never heard anybody talking about this film. With such an allstar cast (Williams, Rogen, Silverman) you would expect it to be just another ridiculously overhyped romcom. But this film is different - I swear. It's funny and sweet, but also a brutally honest portrayal of love and heartbreak. It challenges the idealism of marriage while maintaining a unique lightheartedness. Really special, and really human. God bless Canada.

Some Kind Of Wonderful (1987)

Everyone was too busy freaking out over The Breakfast Club, I feel that this little gem has been overlooked. The film focuses on on two best friends - Keith, the shy sensitive artist, Watts, the leather-wearing drumming tomboy, and the popular and elusive Amanda Jones. It is a cliche and cheesy story about being a teenager in high school and falling in love with the wrong person, that might end up being the right one. Basically, everything you have ever dreamed of. Or something you'll pretend to hate, but you actually know all the words to the scene in the garage.(In this instant, we are all Gigi from He's Just Not That Into You. yes I also love that film but that's besides the point)

Amelie (2001)

I saw the start of this film in a French class years ago and decided to watch it all by myself. I don't know if that was a good idea or not, as now I'm extremely protective over this movie and am apprehensive about recommending it in case someone have something bad to say about it. This film could be called a romance, if only for the fact that you will fall completely in love with the heroine. Played be Audrey Tautou, she epitomises everything this film is about. It's quirky, charming, witty and completely beautiful. And will probably make you rethink your attitudes about people that work in sex shops.

Stardust (2007)

Possibly in my top ten favourite films of all time. Also what I blame for the disconcerting surge of emotion I get whenever I hear Rule The World by Take That. Stardust has everything I could ever want: fantasy, swashbuckling, witches, strong female leads, Ricky Gervais having the power of speech removed...the list goes on. I enjoyed it when I was ten, and love it even more now I actually understand all the jokes. It ticks all the boxes - romance, period drama, fantasy, comedy - and from what I've heard, a faithful book adaptation. I am betraying my own morals by admitting I have yet to read Neil Gaiman's novel. It's on my to-do list.