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.

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.