Sunday, 11 May 2014

Juno


What makes it Independent?
Independent films touch very controversal subjects which are sometimes not fit for mainstream cinema. 'Juno' is an Independent film because of the fact that it touches a controversal subject and also had a low budget which Independents normally have. The film is based around a teenage girl, who is still at school, has an unplanned pregnancy. Teen pregnancies are pretty controversial as they are viewed as a negative thing. This is because the body of a teenager is still developing at this point and they are seen as too young to bare and look after a child.

What is the production cost?
The total production cost for this film is estimated at $7,500,000. Independent films are known to have small budgets as they not owned by one of the big mainstream film companys. Some of the best Independent films have been made on a super low budget for example; 'This is England'. 

Who stars in it and why?
Ellen Page stars as Juno MacGuff.












Michael Cera stars as Paulie Bleeker.











Jason Reitman pictured Ellen Page as Juno when he first read the script for the film. When making an independent movie, the producers have more control over the cast. If it was to be a mainstream film, the production company would have more control over the film than the producers or director due to business purposes.

Has is won awards?
'Juno' has won a mass amount of awards. Independents tend to get a wider range of awards than mainstream due to the amount of controversy and the messages the films put across. Heres a list of awards the film has won:
  • BAFTAs - Best Original Screenplay
  • Critic Choice Awards - Best Comedy
  • Independent Spirit Awards 2008 - Best Feature, Best Female Lead (Ellen Page), Best Film Screenplay (Diablo Cody)
  • 80th Academy Awards - Best Original Screenplay (Diablo Cody)
  • Canadian Comedy Awards (2008) - Best Actress (Ellen Page), Best Director (Jason Reitman)
  • National Board of Review - Best Breakthrough Performance- Female (Ellen Page), Best Original Screenplay (Diablo Cody)
  • Satallite Awards - Best Actress- Musical or Comedy (Ellen Page), Best Film- Musical or Comedy
  • Rome Film Festival - Best Film
  • Writers Guild of America Awards - Best Original Screenplay (Diablo Cody)
  • The National Movie Awards 2008 - Best Comedy

Wednesday, 30 April 2014

Captain America: The Winter Soldier


Budget:
The budget for 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier' is estimated at around $170,000,000. Big American Blockbusters generally have massive budgets due to the fact that mainstream films require so much CGI, effects, big actors/actresses and marketing.

Stars:
Chris Evans
(Steve Rogers/Captain America)
Chris Evans is an American actor who portrays the role as the man out of time, Steve Rogers aka Captain America. He is also known for his role as another Marvel Superhero, Johnny Storm/Human Torch in the 'Fantastic Four' franchise.


Scarlett Johansson
(Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow)
Scarlett Johansson is an American actress who portrays the role as the ex- assassin with a dark history, Natasha Romanoff aka Black Widow. She is also known for her role as Olivia Wenscombe in 'The Prestige'.



Anthony Mackie
(Sam Wilson/Falcon)
Anthony Mackie is an American actor who portrays the role as the ex-army man and good friend of Steve, Sam Wilson aka Falcon. He is also known for his role as Sergeant JT Sanborn in 'The Hurt Locker'.



Sebastian Stan
(Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier)
Sebastian Stan is a Romanian actor who portrays the role of Steve's childhood friend, Bucky Barnes aka the Winter Soldier. He is also known for his role as Walter/Bowtie Party Guest in 'Rachel's Getting Married'.


Samuel L. Jackson
(Nick Fury)
Samuel L. Jackson is an American actor who portrays the role of the Director of S.H.I.E.L.D, director Nick Fury. He is also known for his role as Coach Ken Carter in 'Coach Carter' and Mace Windu in the 'Star Wars' prequal trilogy.





Genre:
The genre for 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier' comes under three categories. These are Action, Adventure and Sci-Fi. Most Marvel films fit within this genre too.

Box Office:
Opening Weekend - $95,023,721(USA) (4 April 2014)
Gross - $226,126,753(USA) (28 April 2014)

 Production company(s):
  • Marvel Studios
  • Marvel Entertainment

Certificate:
UK - 12A
USA - PG-13

Marketing:
Marvel spend a lot of time with their marketing for any of their films. They release a teaser trailer, full trailer, 1 minute clips from the film, all kinds of posters and lots of merchandise. Heres a few examples of what the marking funds go into:
  • Released trailers
  • Small clips posted/released onto YouTube, Marvel channels
  • Film advertised during breaks of 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.' (a TV programme produced by Marvel)
  • Captain America: The Winter Solider themed Sky Shield Broadband adverts featuring Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury
  • Movie posters, some on buses and billboards
  • Toys themed from the film are sold
  • T-shirts
  • Posters
  • Collectibles themed from film, e.g. collectible Captain America figurine 
Official Trailer -


Character Montages -






Short clip -


Posters -


Merchandise-
Merchandise covers anything thing from toys and posters to collectible figures and tshirts. Merchandise promotes the film and its another way of advertising the film, e.g. items of clothing. Some people may where tshirts or hoodies with the film's logo printed on it. People may be interested in this and want to find more about it.

Release Date:
UK release date - 26th March 2014

This shows that the film was released just before the Summer Blockbuster season. During this season, majority of the year's big blockbusters are released into cinemas, e.g. 'Transformers: Age of Extinction' and 'How to Train Your Dragon 2'. However, it was released around the time where more people would be off school and work (such as Easter Holidays or Spring Break). This means audiences have more time and will appeal to them more as they can use this as an activity. Another reason is that the film doesn't have a range of other films to compete with. 

Reviews:
  • "I applaud the Russo brothers and the writers Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely on a job well done in this action thriller The action is riveting as are the quite scenes between the characters. There are Good humorous punches in this script also. The returning cast are great and expanding their roles from other movies, I am trying to be vague here as not to ruin the movie. Also there are some great additions to the cast as well. Anthony Mackie does a soaring job as the Falcon (pun intended), he has a very comfortable fit to the cast and no way feel forces in. Robert Redford is a very compelling character and presence on screen. The action scenes were fantastic when I saw the resume of the Russos's movies I was a little worried, now I think they might have to worry about being type cast as action movie directors. There are a few changes from the comic book story line but they are not distracting. The Winter Solider is a movie that greatly expands and shakes the foundation of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Stay for the two end credit sequences. I really enjoyed this movie and recommend it. If it's action you want. Go see the Captain." - scarinny (from IMDb)
  • "This film is simply exceptional in every way. The edge it has is delivering the best, grittiest action the genre has ever scene and characters that are as complex as the are fun. Why do I say that? Well...

    What I love about the character is that Steve Rogers has "I'm-a-man-out- of-time issues" but he's comfortable with the chaos that it brings. In acclimating himself to this century he is at his best. Yes, most people would be overwhelmed but because of who he is and where he's from, he's able to cope and adapt. The serum that gives him his physical edge also gives him a mental boost. It's his emotions that are raw and unaided. Time has passed since Avengers so we don't get to see his day to day amazement and adjustment. I'm glad they skipped that stuff. What we do see is the man who once represented America and has become alien to America and it's slanted values. The passage of time. Add those struggles to a full blown conspiracy film and what results might just be the best film released all year long.

    Steve Rogers is basically a John Wayne American. The world shifts to him and it's his job to tell everybody "Here's they way things should be done." We saw that in Avengers and even the first film after he gathered his Howling Commandos. Now, the powers that be are a lot more flexible in terms of loyalties and how they're going to get certain jobs done. How he handles this century's gray morality is at the heart of the film.

    Like most men from the 1940's, Steve keeps things to himself and keeps his emotions bottled up. (EX: the first film when he mentions his mother dying of TB and he was even embarrassed when Peggy found him mourning alone for Bucky) So, bringing The Black Widow in to this film gives him someone who is going to draw out his story, because he's never going to offer it up of his own accord. Natasha learns from him. Fury learns from him. Sam Wilson learns from him. Yet, they all give him something in return. Every character used is utilized perfectly and smartly. Falcon for example, is not in awe of the legend of Captain America. This is exactly what Steve wants in a friend and in a fellow soldier, to not have to be Captain America. Everyone fits perfectly in to the plot and allows access to different beats, tones and emotional depth. Yes, conspiracy thrillers need depth and this one has it.

    Captain America is probably the only superhero left in this world of the reboot who is singularly heroic. He doesn't have this dark existential quandary like other reinventions. Plugging that resolute goodness into a morally complex story means he doesn't question what he believes, but he questions whether anybody else does anymore. He doesn't question his foundation but he questions where he has ended up and what his role must now be. The conspiracy element and structure of this story helps in that Captain America is not up on a pedestal being self righteous, he's in a corner and that makes you want to root for the guy. He believes in what he's doing and the viewer is along for a great ride sharing that belief.

    Marvel movies usually establish character early. This one starts out fast but it's got a lot of character in it. The first act packs a punch but does it laying the groundwork for a remarkable third act. They take time showing the issues and you immediately empathize with Steve. Giving us good character depth means the action delivers more punch. And the action here is beyond great. This movie absolutely punches you in the face in the best way possible. The action has advanced a lot from the first film. How he now operates in the world and kicks butt is all very impressive.

    So, this is probably Marvel's grittiest movie and it's also their best sequel to date. There's a dash of humor but there's mostly a wonderful thriller, conspiracy and adventure that delivers a great great film." - Fro (from IMDb)
  •  "In heroes we trust.

    Very Good Marvel Movie! First off, the action and fight scenes in the movie are just awesome and there is plenty of action to keep you entertained throughout the entire movie. There is also enough humor to balance all this. The characters all had their own amazing moments and the acting is decent as well. You get to see more of Nick Fury, and he was awesome in this. Black Widow is used much more in this movie and as well as being badass, she brings out more of the Captain's story. Sam Wilson (the Falcon) is great and is involved in some great action scenes. The villains in this movie were awesome as well. Quite enjoyed the story as well. There were a few twists; some unexpected, some expected. And the reveal of the unexpected twists in the final third were epic. The story is not just about Captain America and the Winter Soldier, there are darker forces at play and causes the Captain to ask dangerous questions. This movie is very entertaining, the story is decent, the ending is awesome and satisfying and I would recommend watching this. Makes for a decent political thriller as well.

    For Steve Rogers, awakening after decades of suspended animation involves more than catching up on pop culture; it also means that this old school idealist must face a world of subtler threats and difficult moral complexities. That comes clear when Director Nick Fury is killed by the mysterious assassin, the Winter Soldier, but not before warning Rogers that SHIELD has been subverted by its enemies. When Rogers acts on Fury's warning to trust no one there, he is branded as a traitor by the organization. Now a fugitive, Captain America must get to the bottom of this deadly mystery with the help of the Black Widow and his new friend, The Falcon. However, the battle will be costly for the Sentinel of Liberty, with Rogers finding enemies where he least expects them while learning that the Winter Soldier looks disturbingly familiar." - Manu Gino (from Rotten Tomatoes)

Friday, 3 January 2014

Thor: The Dark World


Budget:
The budget for 'Thor: The Dark World' is estimated at around $170,000,000. Big American Blockbusters generally have massive budgets due to the fact that mainstream films require so much CGI, effects, big actors/actresses and marketing.

Stars:
Chris Hemswoth
(Thor)
Chris Hemsworth is an Australian actor who portrays the role of the Demigod Prince of Thunder, Thor Odinson. He is also known for his role as George Kirk in J.J. Abrams'  adaptions of 'Star Trek'.





Tom Hiddleson
(Loki)
Tom Hiddleson is a British actor who portrays the  role of the Demigod of Mischief, Loki Laufeyson. He is also known for his role as Captain Nicholls in Steven Spielberg's adaption of 'War Horse'.




Natalie Portman
(Jane)
Natalie Portman is an actress with dual American and Israeli citizenship who portrays the role of Thor's lover, Jane Foster. She is also known for her role as Nina Sayers in 'The Black Swan' and her role as Padme Amidala in the 'Star Wars' prequel trilogy. 




Christopher Eccleston
(Malekith)
Christopher Eccleston is a British actor who portrays the role of the ruler of the Dark Elves of Svartalfheim, Malekith the Accursed. He is also known for his role as the ninth incarnation of The Doctor in Doctor Who.






Genre:
The genre for 'Thor: The Dark World' comes under three different categories. These are Action, Adventure and Fantasy. Most Marvel films fit within this genre too. As 'Thor: The Dark World' is based on Norse Mythology, fantasy is an appropriate genre for this movie. 

Box Office:
Opening Weekend - $85,737,841(USA) (8 November 2013)
Gross - $198,245,744 (USA) (13 December 2013)

 Production company(s):
  • Marvel Studios
  • Marvel Entertainment
 Certificate:
UK - 12A
USA - PG-13

Marketing:
Marvel spend a lot of time with their marketing for any of their films. They release a teaser trailer, full trailer, 1 minute clips from the film, all kinds of posters and lots of merchandise. Heres a few examples of what the marking funds go into:
  • Released trailers
  • Small clips posted/released onto YouTube, Marvel channels
  • Film advertised during breaks of 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.' (a TV programme produced by Marvel)
  • Movie posters, some on buses and billboards
  • Toys themed from the film are sold
  • T-shirts
  • Posters
  • Collectibles themed from film, e.g. collectible Thor figurine

Teaser Trailer -


 Full Trailer -


Short clip -


Posters -



Merchandise - 
Merchandise covers anything thing from toys and posters to collectible figures and tshirts. Merchandise promotes the film and its another way of advertising the film, e.g. items of clothing. Some people may where tshirts or hoodies with the film's logo printed on it. People may be interested in this and want to find more about it. 



Release date:
UK release date - 30th October 2013

This shows that the film was due to release before the Winter Blockbuster season. During this season, really big blockbuster films come out, e.g. 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire' and 'The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug'. The reason for this is so that their movie doesn't have to compete against a load of other big movies. It was also released around the Halloween time which could give the film competition with the horror movies. This won't matter much as 'Thor: The Dark World'  is aimed at a much wider audience than horrors.


Reviews:
  • "Occasionally in life there are those moments of unutterable fulfillment which cannot be completely explained by those symbols called words. This sequel is one such moment. I do need to see it again. In terms of pure enjoy-ability, I put it top 3 of all sequels that I have enjoyed.

    What I really liked...

    -Every single character gets a moment to shine and every single actor cast in these parts are perfect.

    -The comedy is perfect. It's such a fine balance overall and everything works because it's very subtle and fits in with certain circumstances.

    -Some very tender emotional scenes. I won't spoil anything with specifics.

    -Some superb action and what could very well be award winning special effects.

    -All characters interactions are great and handled very well. This is a fantasy story that really cares about character first and it shows all the way through. Even Natalie Portman's Jane feel more fleshed out than she did in the original film.

    -The set pieces and other realms talked about in the first are seen here and are beautiful and well done. Asgard was even better believe it or not.

    -The mid-credit and end credit scenes, both cool. Make sure you stay for both.

    Marvel hit a pure home run with this endeavor. This film works because of the great cast and the fact that they took this subject matter seriously but remember to have fun. Chris Hemsworth was again perfect. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie." - Jo Junno (from IMDB)
 
  • "Infinitely better than the first (which I liked) because of better action, humor and emotion. All those people who were worried about Thor being underpowered are going to be pleased. The effects are wonderful and it is indeed a very funny and a very moving movie in places. I'm happy to report that neither factor is overused or gets in the way of the feel or story. It's the right amount of humor and right amount of angst. Cinematography is great and the score is amazing. Whoever scored this film should do so for the rest of the Marvel movies in my opinion.

    I knew they would nail the pathos but was pleasantly surprised by the creative fight sequences. They are phenomenal. Not overly long but when they rage, THEY RAGE. Also, Kurse can rival the Hulk in terms of scary power. He was better utilized than the Destroyer was in the first film. Loki is the scene stealer that was all hoped to see! Jane and Sif add more than eye candy but you would expect no less from Marvel. Hemsworth has cemented his legend as Thor with this effort. My only real disappointed is a minor one. They didn't really show the nine realms in any real detail. It seemed a cop out that hey're just open landscapes. Yet, maybe they didn't want to commit to anything for future movies.

    Overall, this is a wonderful movie and maybe Marvel's best solo film." - icannothit (from IMDB)
 
  •  " As a stand alone film, this superhero sequel is really a bore. It only succeeds because of the Marvel Avengers mysticism that surrounds it and it's contribution to the Marvel universe. Down the road in several years though, no one but die hard fans will bother with 'Thor: The Dark World'. The most redeeming factor of the film is Tom Hiddleston, who essentially saves the film from complete unoriginality as Loki. Other than his performance and the end credits scene, you can't find too much to acknowledge in this superhero outing." - Kase Vollebregt (from Rotten Tomatoes)