I have decided to celebrate the forthcoming year of blogging, by the addition of a new category. I have called it ‘Films and Cinema’. I have made mention previously, of my lifelong love of both of these, and I hope that this category will reflect that. There will be recommendations, opinions of course, as well as the possibility of generating some discussion about this universally popular subject. It is unlikely that many will agree with my likes and dislikes, as I have somewhat unusual tastes, then that is rather the point of blogs and forums, is it not? You will not find this category a home to Blockbusters, Super Hero films, 3D animations, or the latest incarnation of Bond, as none of these feature on my watch list. You will find lots of foreign films, with subtitles, and many references to older films, and movie classics. There will be the odd silent film included, though there will be little or no comment on films currently showing in cinemas, as I almost never go these days.
I simply cannot abide the popcorn-munching, fizzy-drink-swilling of the modern audiences, making more noise than is coming off the screen, checking in on Facebook, and texting their friends as they ‘watch’. Also, ambient light levels have increased in cinemas, especially in multiplexes, to the degree that they are almost as bright as a normal shop. Add to this an entrance fee that is the same as buying the DVD, and I have to exclude myself from the experience, I’m afraid to say. So, there you have it, a new category for anyone that might be interested, easily ignored by those who are not.
I will keep this first post short, and will simply recommend the film that I have seen most recently, and which may well be later regarded, and rightly so, as a classic of modern film making. I will not add plot spoilers, or go into too much detail about events, as this should help you come fresh to the viewing. Dealing with a particularly difficult and disturbing subject, the 2011 film, ‘We need to talk about Kevin’, is a rare thing; an American film with the feel of European cinema. The performances by all the cast are excellent, with the English actress Tilda Swinton, outstanding in the lead role, of Kevin’s mother. This is not a comfortable, or feel-good film, so don’t expect to laugh, or for that matter cry. It is an experience to be had, at the hands of talented director and writer, Lynne Ramsay, and like nothing you will have ever seen before. If you are at all serious about film and cinema, I urge you to see this superb film.
beetleypete 
Thanks Eddy, good to read your opinion. I think all of us would always like ‘a little bit more’, and perhaps the input from the BBC, and the leading actress being British, did lend that European feel. All the better for it, in my book.
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Ok, the first one under my belt, ‘We need to talk about Kevin’, whilst I thought it was good, it didn’t hit the mark as great. I’m not sure why, but I felt very impatient watching it as the premise soon became clear and I wanted to rush the film along to get there. The visuals were great with some nice ideas and the acting seemed to be faultless; I won’t mention names as I never remember them.
A couple of very poignant moments, which I believe held the message of the film, but I needed a little bit more.
I noted that it was sponsored by the BBC and British film foundation (or similar organisation) I wonder if this explained the ‘European feeling’?
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Sophie, I’m sorry you had someone who spoiled the ending for you, though it is fairly easy to guess quite early on, if you have seen enough films. Glad you thought it was good too, and thanks a lot for the comment. Regards, Pete.
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Nothing wrong with having a drink Ro, unless you’re me that is! I actually like Brian’s corrections, and think that they are valid, but that’s just me, I suppose. I am really nervous about doing a Top Ten, as I am sure that there would be too many good ones that had to be left out. How about a top 50 instead? X
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Yes, I’ve had a drink!
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Nice one Pete, what a great subject, I really look forward to your views (ha).
So, his holiness Brian can’t tolerate the noun ‘movie’ eh? Poor man, he must live in constant sorrow. How about ‘motion picture’ Brian? Does that hurt? Flick? Oooh painful innit?
However, Brian’s idea that Pete should name his top ten movies is a good one, it sort of makes it all neat and proper and things in place, just so we know where we all are and there ain’t no icky sticky bits ‘angin around.
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we need to talk about Kevin – I thought it was great (for want of a better word without giving anything away) I Thought the way they shot it was brilliant – though the experience was dampened for me due to my friend telling me the ending (and therefore the whole plot really) before I even pressed play. Definitely worth a watch – just dont google it first
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Thanks Brian, you are my grammatical conscience, and I need your proof-reading skills. I have a lot of American readers though, so think it only fair to occasionally pop in something that they might understand! Top Tens? I would have to do many. Top war films, top dramas, top science fiction etc; might do it though.
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Why don’t you let make a list of your top ten films, Pete?
Also, apart from one “movie” (Para 1, line 11) that’s crept in I’m glad you’ve used the word ‘film’ throughout the blog.
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I have a feeling that I have seen this film, but I have to check with my better half; her memory works better than mine! I do like the occasional blockbuster, but equally enjoy the more thought provoking titles, so I look forward to reading your recommendations.
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