"BOBBY FISCHER AGAINST THE WORLD" - Of-Fischer-Ali he was the best.

(Original review on new website:

http://www.MiniMiniMovie.com)

[Review working title - "Bobby Fischer Against The World... Or "I have so many reviews on the go that I'm All Fingers And... Pawns..."]

Film: Bobby Fischer Against The World

Year: 2011

Director: Liz Garbus

Venue: Tricycle Theatre & Cinema, London Cast:

Bobby Fischer

Boris Spassky

Gary Kasparov

+ Many other pawns...

Running time: 93 minutes.

Distribution

Released & Distributed in the UK by Dogwoof - details here (and more at foot of review):

http://www.Dogwoof.com

Fingers at the ready...?

We are introduced to a time of many problems in the world and much darkness. The conflicts in Ireland, Vietnam & it's war and of course, the Watergate scandal.

Another would be the Russia Vs US saga which dominated headlines around that time.

The latter would be used, both at this time in history and in this film, as an almost analogy for this future American world champion and his battle with board nemesis, and current champion Boris Spassky.

However, this wouldn't be for a while in his life, as such.

For now, let's concentrate on his childhood and upbringing. [Of course, I'll minimalise any spoiling but as with most non-fictional tales, or documentaries like this one that is more difficult to do than fiction films. Not that describing them without spoilers isn't hard. It is.]

So, this youngster... I recall him being asked at what age he started playing chess. His response was "...6". When then asked "At what age did you get serious [at it]?" young Bobby's reply was "7". It was almost taken like a joke, but deep down the world believed he was being truthful.

Bobby's upbringing wasn't easy, or at least it was not easy for Bobby later in life - when a variety of his mother's talents and controversies were being revealed. His mother knew many languages, was involved with various political situations and even an activist for all sorts. Her involvement or connection with the FBI raised many a concern and suspicion, that is for sure.

There were problems with regard to the male parent of Bobby's but I won't elaborate on that.

Strangely though - and by way of a great movie shot and close-up - at the age of 15 when Bobby was being interviewed, you could see that although a seemingly normal and probably happy kid his eyes were revealing worry... perhaps foreseeing events in his future...?

Back to the adult-come-chess-superstar, my focus was initially drawn to his collar, rather than his face. Why? Immensely large - but the style at the time. Or one of many styles of that era. He came across very calm, normal and straight-talking - not really out-going, even if his collar was!

Of course, like all good [or at least the majority of] documentaries, the story leads to a major event... and no prizes for guessing the pinnacle we were headed for. But to confirm your suspicions, indeed we are leading up to the much-publicised world championship with the aforementioned Boris Spassky.

Would this be plain sailing though? Doubtful... What would be the point of this docu? Certainly the tone early on tells us we are building suspensefully, like a chess game itself, you could analogise.

'Plagued with problems' would be the (much overused) description for what was to follow. Yes, from Fischer's stubborn-ness, almost reculsive-ness, hibernation & general elusiveness to terms not being met... and even the decision of where this tournament would take place. Incidentally, it was to be Iceland.

Even when the championship games begin, we still wonder if the players are going to turn up... Well, ok just one of the players. This has to be one of the amusing highlights of this movie, although there are many other moments.

We then have everything from so-called intrusive camera angles, paranoia of cheating or mind games and even suspected murder - murder? Yes, of two dead flies! Seriously, you need to see this to believe it. It's all rather astonishing.

Add to this the irony and possible terror that this whole match and it's build-up is almost likened to the America's simultaneous war with the Russians. Indeed, this was a real war... with real pawns.

Nonetheless, no matter what motives may be on show here, by the players or important leaders of the world at that time, we're in for a treat. The chess games are well documented here in this picture. Various title cards are used to describe the different stages, each with a chess theme to it. Not to mention ones titled The Beautiful Game and The All-Nighter.

With all this, it's hardly a surprise when we learn of these words..."Fischer is to chess what Ali is to boxing."

The music, animation and use of humour in this motion picture should also be applauded.

All in all, this is a story about a guy with so much focus on chess and chess only that he seems to grow forever embittered. We half want him to fight his inner demons in the time leading up to, and surrounding the all-important chess war-game.

A war-game or not, this film does well to show both sides of Bobby (if indeed there are two!) whilst leaving us movie-goers to witness Bobby & co tuning up to what could be called film's 'ultimate battle scenes'.

Foot Note:

Following the big tournament we are given a glimpse into Bobby's later life. Monsieur Fischer seems to move from paranoia, cult-following, bitterness and an ultimate hate for his homeland of the United States. With regard to the latter, you could say "Who would blame him?" Especially after certain events which take place.

What is interesting though is what Bobby states 'to the world' after the September 11th tragedy. It is not nice... But you half-see where he is coming from.

We are shown that Bobby is now living in Iceland [for reasons you can see in the film], the country which held his famous tournament with Boris. As ironic as this could be seen, he continues to hate the Americans... I found this strange, as he makes himself at home in Iceland, but still dresses like an American! [Denim-clad top-half and baseball cap etc].

Find this Trailer and other Min-er Movies here at:

http://www.youtube.com/miniminimovie

"Pawn Cocktail":

[youtube=http://youtu.be/5sWuhpsG2aU]

Finally...

Film Footnote - "Virally Vending"

As promised above, further details of the distributor of Villain are indeed below. However, before you rush to clickety-click-away I'd like to use this space to mention the recent mindless riots experienced here in the UK. Did you know that these riots caused hundreds of thousands of pounds in damages and loss to our favourite independent film distributors? These are, essentially... Arrow Films, Artifical Eye, The BFI, Crabtree Films, Cine-Asia, Dogwoof Films, Exposure Cinema, Eureka, Kaleidoscope Films, Left Films, Masters of Cinema, Metrodome Films, New Wave Films, Peccadillo Pictures, Revolver Entertainment, Showbox Home Entertainment, Terracotta, Third Window Films and Warp Films.

So, with the latter in mind it is even more important to spread the word virally about these unfortunate vendors. On that note I leave you with these links... all which will, in some way assist in keeping such films to be distributed here in the so-called land of milk & honey.

http://www.facebook.com/dogwoof

http://www.facebook.com/bobbyfischermovie

http://www.Twitter.com/Dogwoof

http://www.Twitter.com/BobbyFischerUK

http://www.Twitter.com/AIDED_Film

http://www.bobbyfischermovie.co.uk/

+

Many thanks & Love to all, including horses.

“THE SKIN I LIVE IN” - [The World I Live In... An Almodóvirgin!]

(Original review on new website:

http://www.MiniMiniMovie.com)

Film: The Skin I Live In (La Piel que Habito)

Year: 2011

Director: Pedro Almodóvar

Venue: The Lexi Cinema, London

Cast

Antonio Banderas

Blanca Suarez

Elena Anaya

Marisa Paredes

Running time: 120 minutes.

Other Info:

The film is based on Thierry Jonquet's book, Tarantula.

I'd witnessed the trailer to this and it intrigued me enough to go & see it. That's the job of a trailer though, to intrigue.

This film was obviously going to be audacious but while being grandiose at the same time. Of course, this doesn't mean that it would be guaranteed good.

On entering the Lexi cinema - my first ever, and long overdue visit - I was not only intrigued by this film but also the lovely venue. It not only helps us punters see brilliant movies it also helps less-fortunate persons - more on this at the foot of the review.

Enter Antonio Banderas... Not into this picturehouse but onto the screen, in the first scenes of the movie.

Along with Robert (Antonio's character) we have a girl who is involved. Let's try to describe her... Pretty, Dark haired & Skinny - Skinny? Well, that's one way to describe her...

How are these two connected? There seems to be a strong bond or care for one another. It's difficult to tell, but it is clear who has control in this 'relationship'. Perhaps a more apt word would be chemistry - I hope I don't need to eLABorate.

The third almost central character is the mother of Robert. It's clear she would be one to continuously dote on her son. It's not clear though, whether she cares or does not care for 'the girl'.

It is fair to say that Robert's subject of interest, desire & main focus is a kept girl. Perhaps not in the traditional sense of that expression though. It's only the unfolding of this often creepy tale which reveals why she is there with him. Although, just when we feel we know what's going on we're often diverted to another aspect of the story.

Incidentally - and if you hadn't guessed from trailers or posters - the girl appears to be wearing a body stocking of sorts. Not only this, Robert explains that this subject matter (or at least a process in his professional field of work) involves a certain animal. You could indeed refer to this as pig-mentation. And yes, that hyphen is intentional. I'm a swine, I know.

There is a tale or two of Robert's family, enemies, loves & his past. The past being intertwined with all those aspects. All these past events and present ones are not only shocking, they are brilliantly executed too.

A bizarre fancy-dressed individual appears at one point and helps to push the story on a bit, of indeed it needed it. Such a character does not seem out of place here... Almost [David] Lynch-esque.

Saying the story doesn't need pushing is perhaps not entirely true... It does help to spiral our confusion and intrigue out of control even further. This is a feat much due it's credit.

Bizarreness also appears in the form of many shots, whether coincidental or intended.

Examples?

A shop is featured and an old woman appears in a window-like-hatch. I saw her and the box surrounding as a kind of Portrait Painting, like you'd see in a Good Gallery.

Then, a straw-like model is spookily being dressed or even assembled - this, through Mini Mini's eyes resembled a burn-victim previously featured in the film. This victim seems to play an integral role in the story.

Do you want another example or example-come-analogy...? Ok...

This time, the subject matter of 'pigs' springs up in this tall 'tail' [*sigh*]... Indeed, a certain person drinks water from a bucket, just like a pig and it's trough.

Finally - and hopefully not a spoiler - there is a line used, "You'll see , when the time comes..." which could almost be a nod towards a certain man and his ability or non-ability to ejaculate.

Encompass all these goings on with the feel and look of the picture as a whole, and you have the embodiment of a delicious viewing experience.

To break this deliciousness down a little:

There are first & foremost, succulent colours and sounds. The latter quality never being more prominent than when a singer is seen performing - it's almost as if it's been recorded separately, over the top of all else. Of course, recording sound separately is not uncommon... Far from it but here it seems unique & intentional.

Then we have well-thought out angles & shots. Instead of the very standard full-shot of a ballroom full of party-goers, which has been used in many a film we are shown something rather different. The characters in the foreground are not displayed fully, and then we move on into the goings-on and event in hand. Why do we not see these individuals heads? Simply, I guess due to them being irrelevant in the story. Mini Mini's opinion, of course.

To play on the word Sexy a little would be to give away perhaps more than one should about this truly dark & remarkable picture. Instead, go and see this movie and if it's still playing at the same venue, go & get Sexi at the Lexi.

A Mini Mini Moving story of the Lexi... from their own words:

The Lexi Cinema - The UK's First Social Enterprise Boutique Cinema

"100% of The Lexi’s profits go towards improving the quality of life for the people of Lynedoch Village in Stellenbosch, South Africa.

Every ticket, every membership you buy, every bowl of popcorn, every glass of wine and every event you hold at The Lexi goes towards making a real difference to the lives of the families at Lynedoch."

http://thelexicinema.co.uk/

http://www.Twitter.com/TheLexiCinema

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Lexi-Cinema/125411586258

And... Not forgetting...:

Mini Mini Movie (i.e. Trailer)

Find this Trailer and other Minier [ok, that's not a real word, but...] Movies here at:

http://www.youtube.com/miniminimovie

"The Film I Appear In":

[youtube=http://youtu.be/PavJUoZNT7g]

Villain - Virally Vended?

(Original review on new website:

http://www.MiniMiniMovie.com)

Film: Villain (Akunin / 悪人)

Year: 2010

Director: Lee Sang-il

Venue: ICA, London

Cast

Satoshi Tsumabuki

Eri Fukatsu

Akira Emoto

Masaki Okada

Kirin Kiki

Hikari Mitsushima

Running time: 140 minutes.

Distribution

Released & Distributed in the UK by Third Window Films - details here (and more at foot of review):

http://www.thirdwindowfilms.com

Other Info:

Preview Screening

Further Info:

The film is based on Shuichi Yoshida's crime noir novel of the same name.

I'm so glad I read minimal information about this. Now comes the tricky part... Relaying minimal information whilst explaining maximal details!

OK, there's this girl (Hikari Mitsushima) who, in between being in the insurance industry spends her time eating with her girlfriends (the Americanised expression... I don't mean she's a lesbian), falling in lust with men and probably purchasing the best designer-wear around. This is not labelling her a bad girl but just one of many almost happy-go-lucky youngsters of this modern world.

Hikari's character tells her friends that she's off to meet a guy and proceeds to do so. What follows is a brilliantly executed, but brief meeting of more than one of her male... errr... acquaintances, shall we say. [Not wanting to give away too much, one of these guys is played by Satoshi Tsumabuki] Well, accidents will happen and storylines do need to unfold.

It's fair to say that one of the guys is not best pleased, not only considering the circumstances but also because he's made quite an effort to meet. There is a great use of sound at this point in the movie.

Missy follows her heart and heads off with a seemingly well-to-do male. Smiles are all round, almost. I would say that they head off into the sunset but it's night time and therefore no sun to be seen.

A sleepy-ish town in the middle of nowhere and suddenly "there's been a murder" - these are the words you'd probably here if this were somewhere in England and a North-of-England detective were involved. This murder though, may not have actually occurred in the sleepy town but definitely somewhere almost as sleepy and far away from life or cities.

Who has committed this nasty deed? Could it be one of the young male leads? Or could they both be responsible in some way? The answers to these and other questions will be answered if you go and see this film, or of course read the book... Something I've not had a chance to do yet.

We soon have obviously distraught parents of the victim. Understandably, they blame one another for this event and at times blame themselves. This said, they know that someone else is literally to blame, ultimately.

A dating site is referred to on more than one occasion in this movie. Our main suspect puts such a site to use and meets a girl... A girl who's almost the opposite to Hikari's character. We could call her niaive and homely but that's not entirely true. More innocent could be more apt. What therefore follows is a play with us, the audience. We are played with in the form of us being presented with the situation of a sweet girl meeting a guy, whom we believe to be perhaps untrustworthy and capable of anything. A grinding juxtaposition giving us a "What Will Happen?" debacle. This is nothing new in films, but it's done brilliantly throughout the remaining longer segment of the movie.

In fact, there is an almost beautiful - but uncertain - love story which is put in front of us. Will they, won't they? Did he, didn't he? ('commit the murder')... And, is this really 'love' or just an escape from the reality of situations surrounding the main male lead?... It's definitely an escape for this new female 'love-interest', if only to take her away from the seemingly mundane life she has been living.

In between the latter relationship we are shown this male's family and pieces of his past. We are also displayed the detective's, the police's and the media's progress in solving the crime. There is, of course a flashback or two but done very well, compared with many others experienced in cinema.

Essentially, this film seems to move from a murder & whodunit [even if we have more than our fair share of suspicions] to an almost Romeo & Juliet situation... All the time, never really letting us know the male lead's intention. They seem like they shouldn't be together.

There is a real heart to this story, and not to mention such a great soundtrack, acting and sublime photography.

I suppose it's the love story which ultimately stole my heart. Do I mean crimes of the heart? Well, it is titled "Villain", so you decide.

Find this Trailer and other Minier [ok, that's not a real word, but...] Movies here at:

http://www.youtube.com/miniminimovie

"Villain Video":

[youtube=http://youtu.be/6s6ELkB1LXY]

Finally...

Film Footnote - "Virally Vended"

As promised above, further details of the distributor of Villain are indeed below. However, before you rush to clickety-click-away I'd like to use this space to mention the recent mindless riots experienced here in the UK. Did you know that these riots caused hundreds of thousands of pounds in damages and loss to our favourite independent film distributors? These are, essentially... Arrow Films, Artifical Eye, The BFI, Crabtree Films, Cine-Asia, Dogwoof Films, Exposure Cinema, Eureka, Kaleidoscope Films, Left Films, Masters of Cinema, Metrodome Films, New Wave Films, Peccadillo Pictures, Revolver Entertainment, Showbox Home Entertainment, Terracotta, Third Window Films and Warp Films.

So, with the latter in mind it is even more important to spread the word virally about these unfortunate vendors. On that note I leave you with these links... all which will, in some way assist in keeping such films to be distributed here in the so-called land of milk & honey.

http://www.facebook.com/thirdwindowfilms

http://www.facebook.com/VillainTheMovie

http://www.Twitter.com/ThirdWindow

http://www.Twitter.com/VillainTheMovie

http://www.Twitter.com/AIDED_Film

Many thanks.

"SAWAKO DECIDES" - or perhaps it is really Sake Deciding

Original review on NEW website:

http://www.MiniMiniMovie.com

[Review Working Title: A Small Fish in a Small Pond]

Film: Sawako Decides (Kawa No Soko Kara Konnichiwa / 川の底からこんにちは)

Year: 2010

Director (& writer): Yuya Ishii

Venue: ICA, London

Cast:

Hikari Mitsushima

Masashi Endo

Kira Aihara

Ryo Iwamatsu

Kotaro Shiga

Running time: 112 minutes

Distribution

Released & Distributed in the UK by Third Window Films - details here (and more at foot of review):

Official Site: http://www.thirdwindowfilms.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thirdwindowfilms

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/ThirdWindow

Other Info:

Winner at 53rd Blue Ribbon Awards (Best Director)

Winner at Fantasia Film Festival (Best Film; Best Actress)

I'm at a bit of a loss as to how to describe the humour in this picture... Sometimes deadpan, dry, subtle and slapstick - but each type really works!

There is even sentimentality, alcoholism & death. Death... In a Japanese movie? Never...

Anyway, I'll remove my sarcastic head for a second or two and describe the film as best I can, spoilers aside.

A girl, Sawako (Hikari Mitsushima) is seen, having a medical procedure of some kind. Sawako, it evolves is not too bright and takes whatever life throws at her. We witness this at the beginning in her love life & her working life.

The first real comedy moments are at her workplace, where it would seem that not much work is actually undertaken and at times it's 'dull'... This is confirmed by a character or two even using that word - to great comedy effect.

Sawako is also receiving mysterious - to us - phonecalls. It's pretty obvious that this is from someone who is, or at some point was close to her. Is it an ex, family member or perhaps even a company trying to persuade her to come to work with her...? At this point, we do not know... so why should you?! ;)

The latest love (or just-for-company) interest of Sawako's brings further comedy to the story. I will just say that one of the two drinks beer a lot and the other knits clothes, whilst caring for the environment. You may be surprised which one does what, or of course... not.

Sawako, her male companion & her colleagues are not the only human beings bringing humour to this film. Another major (but tiny - literally) character is a young child. Funny, cute & to boot played by a great little actress.

Our female lead must, almost suddenly head of out-of-town in the form of an emergency of the health kind.

In doing so, she becomes a kind of 'fish' out of water. Yes, pun intended... And you'll get this pun when you see the movie.

You see, not only must Sawako get used to her new surroundings in this out-of-town place but also it means that (yet another) job must commence. A different type of work and more demanding. Is this for Sawako? Perhaps she really has no choice.

Does she adapt well, after being a fish out of water? I believe she does a little and becomes a baby 'duck' out of water, by this I mean that she, in some small way does indeed adapt but not fully at first.

Incidentally, there is moment where a duck is shown slowly bobbing it's head under the water and out again. The motion is repeated a couple of times. This reminded me of an earlier scene where Sawako is in a bath and her head is seen to splash out of the water. This said, she's not the kind to do any ‘ducking’ & diving - no, she's not known for being a risk-taker.

A fish out of water? A non-risk taker? So, how does she truly adapt? Let's put it this way... Sometimes family, and reasons linked to a 'happy home' make one try to adapt more.

Up to this point I've not mentioned much about her family, and that is essentially because they are unknown to us at the start of the film. I will say now that one member is sick, whilst another is your almost typical, whilst comedic slightly-perverted-come-randy uncle.

This family of Sawako's is not only connected by blood but also by that other life-force [for many people], alcohol. Drinking can make for an easy laugh in a movie, but here it works well and subtly. It features so much so that I wasn't sure if it was medicinal fluids stored in a featured intravenous drip, or in fact alcohol! Are they drinking beer? Are they drinking the Japanese drink, sake? If the alcohol indeed plays a part in Sawako’s life choices, chances or fate, perhaps it should be renamed “Sake Decides’.

A note on Hikari Mitsushima and her deservedly revered acting displayed in this movie. I'm no guru in all what is Japanese, nor on every film Hikari has been in but this is surely the most dress-downed that we've seen her, if not the most dowdy.

Throw in some larger than life colleagues, employee hatred & a humorous workplace anthem and you have the perfect recipe for a reason to check out this film sometime soon. If undecided before, now I hope the decision of whether to see this film has been made.

Find this Trailer and other Minier [ok, that's not a real word, but...] Movies here:

http://www.youtube.com/miniminimovie

"Small Sawako":

[youtube=http://youtu.be/kwnJpZtGhYM]

Finally...

Film Footnote - "For Sawako's Sake"

Links to Third Window Film (& similar distributors) are listed again below. However, before you rush to clickety-click-away I'd like to use this space to mention the recent mindless riots experienced here in the UK. Did you know that these riots caused hundreds of thousands of pounds in damages and loss to our favourite independent film distributors? These are, essentially... Arrow Films, Artifical Eye, The BFI, Crabtree Films, Cine-Asia, Dogwoof Films, Exposure Cinema, Eureka, Kaleidoscope Films, Left Films, Masters of Cinema, Metrodome Films, New Wave Films, Peccadillo Pictures, Revolver Entertainment, Showbox Home Entertainment, Terracotta, Third Window Films and Warp Films.

So, with the latter in mind it is even more important to spread the word virally about these unfortunate vendors. On that note I leave you with these links... all which will, in some way assist in keeping such films to be distributed here in the so-called land of milk & honey.

http://www.thirdwindowfilms.com

http://www.facebook.com/thirdwindowfilms

http://www.Twitter.com/ThirdWindow

http://www.Twitter.com/AIDED_Film

Many thanks.

"Salt of Life" - Peppered with Laughter

Original review on new website: http://www.MiniMiniMovie.com)

Italian Man's Best Friend

Film: SALT OF LIFE (Gianni e le Donne)

UK Release Date: 12th August 2011

Year: 2011

Director: G

Bonus: Q & A with director / co-writer / actor Gianni Di Gregorio

Venue: Curzon, Mayfair

Cast:

Gianni Di Gregorio

Valeria de Franciscis Bendoni

Alfonso Santagata

Elisabetta Piccolomini

Valeria Cavalli

Alyn Prandi

Kristina Cepraga

Michelangelo Ciminale

Teresa Di Gregorio

Lilia Silvi

Gabriella Sborgi

Laura Squizzato

Silvia Squizzato

Further Info:

UK PREMIERE

Distributed by Artificial Eye

Official Site: http://www.artificial-eye.com

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/ArtificialEye

This Is No Asterix

I had a decision. A film or a farewell meal for a friend. I must add that this friend was having many a farewell do and this was almost 'just another one'.

It turned out though, that after half-cancelling my acquired place at this Premiere screening I could now in fact attend both the movie and the meal.

It was going to be tight but I knew I could do both of the events. So, I proceeded to head to the Curzon, Mayfair. It was now a case of a Cancelled and Re-Claimed prize... Indeed, would a seat be there with my name on it, or not? It was there... In fact, I was ultimately informed that I could sit anywhere inside the auditorium.

"Seen it... Seen it... Seen it..."

But until such time, I was seated in the bar and reception area of this fine establishment. I was a tad excited to see such a movie - but one I knew little about. Whilst there I witnessed many an Italian person arrive [obviously], as well as English and a fidgety old woman who appeared to have lost something. Or her mind... Bless her.

I can't say that the staff behind the bar were stupid, or clever but I'm sure I heard one of the guys tell a customer that "Salt Of Life" is an animated film. Really? Solely based on the animated poster? Silly man, although perhaps I'm also that man, as I believed him! [So much so that when the film later begun I thought it was perhaps going to transition away from live action to animation - This would then be in line both with it's movie poster and a film still, or two I'd seen previously on the Curzon website: http://www.curzoncinemas.com]

Ultimately, I placed myself in the front row of what is, incidentally the best Curzon screen I've experienced. However, this was too close really - Especially for some of the early shaky camera work. Of course, it was also great to be fully immersed in the proceedings.

A Salty Reception

This being the UK Premiere & Preview, director Gianni Di Gregorio introduced the film and explained, with the aid of a translator that he made it at a certain age when he realised women had stopped looking at him.

Without further a do, and spoiling as little as possible I'll describe this movie to you.

Here we have a middle aged man and a much older woman, clearly his mother. They appear to be speaking with a lawyer or more so probably an executor [that's the pronounciation as in law not in executing in the form of killing!]

It's clear from early on that this man is a little low and frustrated at this time in his life. Is this all there is? Whatever happened? Where has gone his ability to attract - or even attempt to attract - women? Has it dwindled so much that some kind of analogy to a motor or mechanical part is required here? Yes. This is later, and more than once reflected in such a broken down vehicle. It's fair to say that this vehicle keeps having the same problem. Hmmm...

My Kind O' Party...

So, what does a guy do in such a pickle? He surely doesn't want to become 'just one the many' old guys out there, doing the same old thing, day after day. Such a character is shown which could demonstrate this monotonousness - this character is a guy who has trousers & hat which match in colour... And so matches his dog! [In colour, I mean... It's not a trousers-and-hat-wearing dog! Come on, this film is lighthearted enough but not over the top!]

Dogs feature semi-heavily in this movie... And I'm in no way meaning the derogitory word for women (or men to come to think of it). No. We see a few different breeds of our four-legged friends. A great example of two such pets is shown not long into the story. Our protagonist is seen walking more than one such pet - much to the amusement of one girl seated behind me.

Our hero is naturally facing a midlife or latelife crisis. This is reflected greatly in many scenes, whether looking in the mirror, chatting to his best male friend, spending time with his much-demanding mother or taking a walk almost alongside a load of young female joggers.

A Walk In The Park... Or A Jog...

Cherries are used in a great filmic way. Are these suggesting popping someone's cherry, cherry-picking a fruit of his own choice, or simply indicating that he is not taking a second bite of the cherry? [...like so many other men at his age, either in the movie or in real life...]

Indeed, had this film been made a couple of decades ago it could have been named "Men on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown"...!

"What about the women?", I hear you cry. Apart from some lovely females, including twins, a party-loving youngster, and a practising soprano we have the oldies. Although, one or two of the old women in the movie could be said to resemble men, except with a tad too much make-up. Surely not just my opinion here?

Love Thy Neighbourhood...?

And what kind of modern film would this be without the mention or hint of Viagra? In fact, an almost too-brilliant-to-be-considered-coincidental moment comes along, giving a knew meaning to someone who has got 'the horn'.

Sex. Drugs. Drugs? Yes. Drugs (both sexual and recreational), a pixies tune & gambling all feature half-heavily in this sublime picture. As do images [and memories, in my case anyway] of Rome.

Just when you wonder how the film will end, and as it approaches it's modest and moderately lengthed run time, it hits you like a beautiful thunderbolt of euphoric lightning.

Up-Staged At Q & A? I Wouldn't Know... This Was Before The Film, Not After...

I couldn't stay for the Q & A [I later heard it was wonderful] with the Italian director-slash-writer-slash-star.

So, Goodbye it was to this Salty Italian classic and onwards to say Farewell to a friend (leaving for Shanghai) over a Salty Chinese meal.

Find this trailer and other Minier [ok, that's not a real word, but...] Movies here at:

http://www.youtube.com/miniminimovie

...:

[youtube=http://youtu.be/DXb0YqOxgLE]

“The Orphanage” - far from Awful-age & more like Awe-filled-ness [Really Orph-full Review Title]

Original review on new website: http://www.MiniMiniMovie.com)

Film: The Orphanage (El Orfanato)

Year: 2007

Director: Juan Antonio Bayona

Venue: Prince Charles Cinema, London

Further Info: http://www.princecharlescinema.com/

Cast:

Belén Rueda

Fernando Cayo

Roger Príncep

Geraldine Chaplin

Running Time: 105 minutes

Tuesday 17th May

[Following "Julia's Eyes"... http://bit.ly/l8Iau5... ] I focused on exiting the cinema, like a man possessed [and intent on getting food], did my best to verify the ETA of the next film to appear on the screen & headed to the culinary un-delight vendor around the corner. I purchased a bite, headed back to the venue, grabbed a coffee and took position again in the cinema. If that reads a tad speedy that's because it was!

One quick and discreet phone-call later and the film was almost underway.

The Orphanage was On:

Amongst children seen playing, we see a scarecrow, which I must admit has the dress-sense and hair of one of Johnny Depp's famous characters. But which film am i thinking of? Benny & Joon perhaps. Anyway, it’s not important.

[Food for Thought: I take it crows are anti-christians and therefore fly away from such "Jesus-on-a-cross" stanced scarecrows...As I say, that's just Thought Food]

We're also introduced to some lovely titles...but lovely designed titles do not make a great film, of course. Yes, I was in a tad negative mood. Only a tad, due to my non-impressedness from the previously shown film, Julia's Eyes.

I liked the fact that this (along with Julia's Eyes) was a double-bill and therefore thought of the following:

Analogy Part I: Julia's Eyes involved...yes, you've guessed it, a women (named Julia!;) and problems with her eyesight.

Analogy Part II: The Orphanage and an early - and I guess you could say first real - scene featuring a woman waking up and therefore her eyes being opened.

Now... On the assumption that you'll know a tad about this movie already - even from posters I guess you can tell it's subject matter - I'll reveal vague suggestions of story.

Essentially, we are talking either about ghosts, invisible friends or poltergeists here. And on that 'revelation' there is a part where a trail is left for such beings...(or 'non-beings', would perhaps be more apt) ...and this path trailing reminded me either of Hansel & Gretal or E.T., or both.

Now, this is not the first film to use the idea of a fancy dress party and I'm sure there is many a fright film out there which does so, but this particular one did make me think that perhaps it would have been a different story without this party. Not that there wouldn't be a movie anyway but, well you'll perhaps see what I mean when you see this movie - if, indeed you haven't already seen this picture before...It was released back in 2007.

[And even if you have seen, I hope you're just interested in MiniMini's opinion and perhaps just want to be entertained by reading the review - after all, that's partly why I write these - see my Mini-Mission Statement ;)]

Now, shall we have a seance? Or what I like to call a House Market Evaluation..!? *laugh* (OR) *sigh* Anyway, perhaps it is just me, but I was thinking that the old woman employed to undertake such a task looked remarkably like an older version of the lead female. Also, I'm trying to recall where I've seen this (much) older woman in movies before... Hmm...

We then have a bit of a grown-up-Home-Alone scene as our main lady prepares to summon those whom perhaps she would be better leaving to their own devices. It's similarity is only slight, but a 'Home Alone' aspect I saw in more than one way.

I can't help my humour or word-playing - it just comes out - but there are some things I should apologise for and this could be one. Basically, one character is looking or reading a mirrored plaque on a grave... and I thought of him saying "I can see myself in that!" One day, yes. *sigh*

And with that bit of shallow philosophising I'll end this review on a higher note, just like a Hollywood happy ending.

A suspenseful thriller-come-horror, having taken us on an only vaguely cliched rollercoaster, rounds events off with an ending that big softie [and owner of a child's heart & mind, and perhaps an orphanage of Hollywood kid actors at his home] Steven Spielberg would be proud of.

[Trailer... Complete with cheesy American voiceover...: ]

[youtube=http://youtu.be/nUZQgqxIZ6s]

Terrific Terracotta II: Red Light Revolution (Hong Deng Meng / 红灯梦)

Original review on new website: http://www.MiniMiniMovie.com)

Film: Red Light Revolution (Hong Deng Meng / 红灯梦)

Year: 2010

Writer/Director: Sam Voutas

Venue: Prince Charles Cinema, London

Further Info: http://www.princecharlescinema.com/

Cast:

Zhao Jun

Vivid Wang

Jiang Xiduo

Masanobu Otsuka

Virgin Chen

(Running time: 91 mins)

This film was first up on this, my second day of the festival...

The writer/director (Greek/Australian but essentially Oz) introduced this movie, accompanied by a blow up doll. Strange? Well, I've seen many a bizarre thing in this life so... errr... no.

Firstly, this film is set and filmed in Beijing in one of the older, small town areas (apparently within one of the main ringroads).

Secondly, it's filled & fuelled with brilliant humour. I was wondering whether I would have guessed that it was written by a non-Asian or non-Chinese individual if I didn't already know this. I say that I 'knew' this but frankly I only knew that he directed it and not necessarily wrote also, but this was affirmed in the Q & A which would follow.

In the movie, we meet a man who is not having much success lately. Work, relationships & his TV to name but 3 random items. However, all these moments - and they're all kind of interconnected with one another - are so comedic you fall in love with all whom are involved. His parents are fantastic and have such advice & 'wisdom' which you'd expect, to a degree. It's pretty hilarious whilst honest also.

Spoilers aside, he doesn't sit on his butt jobless but as any man (or woman) down on their luck needs something to lift his spirits. It's not long before he is trying to fully pick up the pieces, whether this be by looking for work actively or being offered a 'chance of a lifetime'. But what kind of lucky chance would this be? Well, it doesn't take an expert to judge from the film's title alone that it must include sexual connotations. Albeit not in the 'red light' we might associate with (I'm thinking of prostitution), but still connected with such areas.

Around this time there is a great Japanese character introduced who briefly steals a scene or two. And it is ultimately from this introduction that our little hero is given the opportunity he is (NOT necessarily) after. Either way, he needs something to put his mind to and of course earn money from.

With the aid of a girl whom he knows, although who he has not that long known he sets up this business. A business in which the items he is to hopefully sell to the public are very unfamiliar to him...and who could blame him, we're not talking of Fisher Price items on sale here.

Some very chuckle-enducing scenes or experiments with sex toys ensure, both at this start of his venture and throughout the picture.

We meet very funny locals and regulars - or irregulars - to his new establishment. And, what success story would be one without a threat of closure or the fact that it may not actually succeed...?

An essential part of any such threats is displayed to us by the local 'Neighbourhood Watch' guy, although this title is not the same as such a 'watch' in the UK.

This brings it's own comedy, including a scene where the Neighbourhood Watch guy must be stopped or at least stalled from visiting the young man's establishment. The intended stalling scene is brief but humorous, I hope you'd agree.

[Leading on from the latter, & when our hero and associate are asked about what line of work they are in, the comedy-writer inside me came out. Elaboration? Me? OK. 1) There are balloons on display in the store - I thought there would be a joke where they claim to be a balloon or party shop and had to demonstrate with condoms...Seriously, such an idea would not be out of place in this movie. 2) When asked with what are some shoes to be polished with, I was convinced there would be some kind of lubricating gel displayed &/or applied.]

There is a great scene or two involving a reverse-impotency solution. A solution in more ways than one. One of such scenes also involves the director & writer of the picture in this part of the movie, with funny consequences. So... Cameo...? Word Up...

All in all, good clean (or 'dirty') fun...

Q & A

The fluent director (fluent in Mandarin, it had been previously explained, and of course English;) answered questions on the task of making this movie. A few highlights:

• Due to one needing a license to film in a sex shop [a license is also required before one decides to open such an adult store] a large manufacturer, based in China supplied the adult toys shown in this picture. In other words, much product placement is on display here.

• He probably wouldn't have been able to make the film had he not been able to speak Mandarin. If only because all the crew spoke zero English.

• Certain Hollywood or non-Chinese film companies suggested that the film be shot in the appropriate New York area or Chinatown in London (with English language actors too!) but of course this would not have been genuine, or quaint in my opinion. The director also knows Beijing very well.

• It had been suggested, upon hearing the synopsis that the shop in the film be changed to a Tea Shop but as the director explained, they "just weren't getting it"...!

• I noticed there seemed to be quite a few French in the audience. At least 3 of the individuals had French accents.

I then wandered off with a newly found friend (from the previous evening) to grab coffee - well, this was to be a long day - and got back to the Prince Charles cinema in time to catch main star, & karate champion Rina finishing up her brief introduction to Karate Girl. You can karate-kick your way over to a review of that one here:

http://miniminimovie.com/2011/05/31/terracotta-iii-karate-g/

"Red Light Revolution" Reel...

[youtube=http://youtu.be/NFSzRjbE9HE]