Category Archives: Action

Action, Comedy, Marvel

Deadpool & Wolverine

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Reading Time: 3 minutes

Date watched: August 9, 2024
Date Reviewed: August 10, 2024

Review

You may have noticed it’s been a little quiet here lately and that’s because life has been keeping me busy with a few other things of late and I’ve not had the chance to visit the cinema as often as I would have hoped.

So with a free Friday night, I decided to treat myself to see the latest Marvel instalment: Deadpool & Wolverine.

Not only has it been a while since my last visit to the cinema, I also haven’t watched any Marvel productions since the disappointment of Thor: Love and Thunder. I had decided to take a break and while it was never meant to be permanent, I haven’t found myself wanting to jump back in.

In an unusual move for myself, I didn’t rewatch any of the previous Deadpool or X-Men films (and it doesn’t take much for me to have an impromptu X-Men marathon, it’s always been my favourite of the comic series). I also didn’t research what I should watch first and tried my best to avoid spoilers. Unfortunately I did see a few things during the week but nothing to spoil my enjoyment.

I think that Deadpool is a good film to dip back into the franchise. It delivers exactly what you expect: lude jokes, forth wall breaks, tons of violence, and fight sequences galore.

This instalment also contained a killer soundtrack and many cameos. I quite liked the snippets from the Greatest Showman that we heard. The film also pokes fun along the way, leaving many fans questioning how they were able to get away with saying such things. A line which appealed to me and I’m guessing many others of similar mind was the “Welcome to the MCU. You’re joining at a bit of a low point.”

Circling back to the cameos, that is probably want makes this different to the previous Deadpool films. The previous films have included cameos of other characters from the series but were limited to an extent on the options available. Now that this instalment is part of the MCU, that provides many additional options but it’s not going to be what you think. Apart from the obvious inclusion of Wolverine, you will be pleased to see who has made the cut. That’s all I will say on that!

The plot is a relatively simple story. Nothing fancy or complicated but it doesn’t need to be. It’s an easy-to-follow premise, setting up an enjoyable viewing experience. We also welcome Matthew Macfadyen to the MCU as a key character in the narrative, something I wasn’t aware of going in and was not upset by that!

What probably makes this film such a success is that by all appearances it looked fun to make. Everybody has been waiting for these two characters to be in a film together for such a long time and to rewrite the ‘wrongs’ of X-Men Origins. You really get the sense that they weren’t sure if they would get another go at this and wanted to take the advantage to make the best film they could. There are also many jokes about this partnership continuing well into the future with Disney now involved, and I guess we will have to wait to see what happens next.

If you are already a fan of the franchise, you’re really going to enjoy the film and likely have already seen it by now. The film is really playing towards its target audience. To me, it feels like a film for the fans by the fans. You will have a lot of laughs and plenty of fun.

I would suggest watching at least Loki Season 1 beforehand. I haven’t watched Season 2 yet, so unsure if that would have enhanced my viewing experience or not. You can follow along without having seen the previous two Deadpool films or Logan. That said, if you have not seen them, they are great films and I would also suggest viewing them before Deadpool & Wolverine.

So while you find a session to book, I will excuse myself to watch the opening sequence yet again. The Deadpool films always do this so well and this one, well *chef’s kiss*.

Rating:  Great

Action, Australian, Comedy

The Emu War

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Reading Time: 3 minutes

Date watched: June 23, 2024
Date Reviewed: June 23, 2024

Review

This film has been a long time coming (seven years in the making to be precise) and I am so happy that I got the chance to see it over the weekend at a Q&A event held at my local independent cinema.

What started off as a web series to now film, ‘The Emu War’ is a not at all accurate but hilarious account of an event that actually happened in Australia in 1932. Don’t believe me or not familiar with the story? Go google it or find the episode of Drunk History Australia with Joel Creasey.

Film makers Johnathan Schuster, Jay Morrissey, John Campbell, along with cast member Aaron Gocs attended the Q&A event that I went along to who explained the inspiration of making a film parodying the war film genre where they often find those type of films to be so earnest and serious, that it teeters on the line of comedy without ever going over. That’s the space they wanted to play in.

I had a vague idea of what I was getting myself into after watching the trailer and was expecting a wild ride, which is certainly what I got!

At this time I think is also worth pointing out that I don’t think this is going to be everyone’s cup of tea shall we say. To say it best I will quote film maker Johnathan Schuster to say that it does get “naughty”. To those who don’t appreciate a bit of nonsense, I don’t think you’re going to like this one.

Fortunately for me, I like the nonsense and it was so great to be in a cinema with an audience who found the film just as entertaining as I did. A room full of laughter is a glorious sound and I hope the film makers were happy with the reaction their film got.

I will admit that I did feel slightly uncomfortable with the death of Prime Minister Harold Holt. I felt a little guilty for laughing and did find it somewhat over the top. I’m not sure if it was some form of national pride or maybe how comedian Cameron James, who portrays the PM, is going to look back at that scene in years to come!

Putting aside some of the ‘crude’ humour I was probably expecting there to be more violence, which even when done in a humous way I tend to look away from. Instead I found a lot of story elements that I really enjoyed. For instance, looking back on the story of ‘Emu boy’ which in hindsight was probably obvious, was a development I found quite satisfying as it wasn’t something that I was looking for. It provided a deeper character connection behind the ludicrous story of the war against the emus. But don’t worry, before things get serious or sentimental the silliness factor goes into overdrive!

Something else which I really loved was the inclusion of some of our Australian legends, particularly of Ned Kelly which was done so very well. My favourite scene however would have to be the one featuring Dane Simpson and the bush tucker. Fishing for fish and chips – comedy gold!

Lastly, I should also give a shout out about the puppets! During the Q&A it was mentioned that there were three primary puppets used for the filming of different emu sizes from a baby, adult, and the Queen.

It may be a low budget film but that should not be a deterrent to your enjoyment.

Please support the film by looking for a session at a cinema to go see it. I didn’t think to ask if it would be added to any streaming services, hopefully it will be. Until then, there is a DVD which can be ordered if you go to the Umbrella Entertainment website.

Rating:  Good

Action, Thriller

Mission: Impossible II

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Reading Time: 3 minutes

Date watched: July 13, 2023
Date Reviewed: July 25, 2023

Review

The sequel to the mission franchise is released to us four years after the original film and I don’t recall if I saw this one at the cinema or not. Based on how old I was at the time; I’m thinking that was unlikely. What I do recall however is owning this one on VHS and that it included behind the scenes extras of how the big stunts were filmed.

I also remember that I really liked the film at the time but on reflection I believe that comes from the fact that most of Mission: Impossible II was filmed in Australia and perhaps just being proud my home country was featured.

Since then and with more sequels released, this instalment is the weakest of the lot.

The film is quite disjointed and my major issue with it is the plot. It just doesn’t seem like a case for the Impossible Mission Force. Not only do the stakes not feel high but the actions taken by the IMF don’t seem impossible either. This could have been an intelligence mission the CIA or another agency could have covered.

The whole reason why the IMF is event included is the connection between a scientist on the project in question with Ethan Hunt – a very tenuous link indeed.

The film does have some fantastic action scenes which are very memorable. Now that might be nostalgia talking but when I think this film, I am taken back to the rock-climbing scene at the very beginning of the film and the knife fight sequence in the closing act.

The director, John Woo, also brought his style of repeat shots that slows down the action before letting the sequence run freely and faster. His style isn’t for everyone, and mission may not be his best work but this was a part of a film that I did and still do enjoy.

Lastly some thoughts on the cast.

Thandie Newton and Anthony Hopkins are inserted into the cast where the latter was a rather odd cameo and somewhat unlikable character similar to Kittridge from the first instalment. The former is added as the love interest for a storyline that adds nothing to the overarching plot. Her character while providing some interest is used in such a bizarre way.

It was nice to have Ving Rhames return as Luther however he is paired with the most stereotypical “Aussie” counterpart, it hurts to watch!

This is also the film which introduced me to Richard Roxburgh, whose performance I enjoy in this film, despite the strange accent!

Overall, as a mission film it ticks all the boxes that we expect to see. From locations, use of masks – now with the addition of a voice changing strip you stick on your throat, to action sequences. Yet with all that, Mission: Impossible II fails to hit the mark.

Not the worst film I have seen but it is very middle of the pack viewing.

Rating:  Alright

Action, Thriller

Mission: Impossible

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Reading Time: 3 minutes

Date watched: July 12, 2023
Date Reviewed: July 13, 2023

Review

Now that the new Mission: Impossible film has hit theatres that can only mean one thing – a movie marathon! However, with six films in the back catalogue, it’s increasingly more difficult to watch all the films in a day and then go see the new one, as I previously used to. Nowadays it’s more a one a night kind of deal.

I’m a little hazy on what the first Tom Cruise film I saw was, but it was either Mission: Impossible or A Few Good Men and I’ve been a fan ever since! That is of both star and those films.

So last night I kicked it off by going back all the way to the very beginning.

The first film in the franchise, Mission: Impossible is a joy to watch every single time. For me it’s one of those films that whenever it is on TV and I land on it, I’ll continue to watch from that point on. I’d also love to have the experience to watch it freshly again, as once you have seen it, you’ll never watch it the same way again.

Coming up to 30 years since the film was released, it still stands the test of time. One of the main reasons for this is the storyline. While not an overly complicated plot, it is a classic spy thriller tale which sees an agent being falsely accused as a mole and who uses their skills to clear their name.

There is not a moment in this film that is of waste, it is just constant entertainment from start to end. One of my favourite details are the key scenes shown during the opening titles, which if this is your first watch is an excellent tease happen to notice it.

At the time of release the film got a lot of attention of its stunts and scenes which have now become iconic to cinema history, namely Cruise balancing from the ceiling of a highly secured vault inches off the ground. And I must say, I still get excited all these years later even though I know what is coming next.

The biggest drawcard for these films is of course the action sequences. And right from the go they have been engaging and unique to now being something the franchise has become known to deliver. Each film we look forward to what exciting sequences have been conjured up and the stunt work involved.

Something that was different this time around in my rewatching was the filming locations. Meaning this film is now going to hold an extra special place in my heart after my recent trip overseas. It was only a few weeks ago that I was in Prague, where the first third of the movie takes place. I don’t think I’ve ever really watched this film paying attention to the beautiful locations. However now having been there, I feel a greater connection.

Not even a month and I’m already having nostalgic memories from my vacation!

The same goes for the last third of the film set in London. Having had drinks at The Anchor Pub where the final scene is set, and I recognised it instantly!

If for some reason you haven’t seen any Mission: Impossible film or not seen this one, I will spare you the look of puzzlement and question of “where have you been” and instead urge you to grab a copy or find it on a streaming service and watch it now!

And if it has just been some time since your last viewing, why not do the same before going to see the latest instalment, starting again from where it all begun.

Either way you are guaranteed a good night from the comfort of your couch. That is your mission, if you choose to accept it…

Rating:  A Must See

Action

John Wick: Chapter 4

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Reading Time: 3 minutes

Date watched: March 25, 2023
Date Reviewed: March 26, 2023

Review

Saturday night has brought me to both the conclusion of my weeklong catch up of John Wick films and of the series.

I’ll be honest with you; I was a bit nervous going in after finding out in the morning that Chapter 4 had a runtime of 2hrs 49mins, making it the longest in the series. I didn’t know how I was going to get through it, and I was a little afraid of what to say to my friends who were fans of the series.

Watching it at the cinema, on a big screen, with lots of volume, and with an audience the film is targeted towards, certainly enhanced the experience. There were a couple of times that laughter broke out, mostly at audience reactions, and I found that I wasn’t the only one confused as to if the film is meant to be taken seriously or not. The vibe I got is that the audience found the “hilarity” of it.

In Chapter 4, John after being shot off a rooftop by Winston, continues his path to freedom from The High Table. But rather than following any threads already established in the first three films, we are introduced to new characters and plotlines in his quest.

While the franchise has come a long way from its first instalment with improved storyline and acting (albeit the bar was low!), I am left a little confused by how the ‘universe’ created has progressed. It seems to have gone from a secret, somewhat underground society living amongst civilians to now everyone being an assassin. That or the civilized society knows about the order and just doesn’t care. It’s never really been acknowledged, so it falls into one of the attentions to detail gaps the franchise is littered with.

What the John Wick franchise is widely well known for, are the clever and engaging action sequences and Chapter 4 is no exception. There is one absolute stand out sequence set in an abandoned building which uses an overhead shot that includes flamethrowers and is stitched together so seamlessly, you’d think it was a single shot.

And while it’s worth watching this film for that sequence alone, there are many other great action sequences to like.

In answer to the question is this the best in the series? I would have to go with yes. I liked Chapter 2 as well, however Chapter 4 has quite a lot of good action sequences. I do think it runs for longer than is needed, but it wasn’t as hard a slog as I thought that it was going to be. And again there were some clear scenes that weren’t needed to progress the story. There also aren’t really many call backs to the past films, so you could easily get away with not seeing any of them follow along in this last instalment.

If you are planning on seeing John Wick: Chapter 4, I would recommend going to the cinema as it does look great up on the big screen.

Most importantly, my friend who wanted to see it for her birthday, enjoyed it. It’s ok, she knows I won’t be watching the films again – once is enough for this cinephile.

Rating:  Alright

Action

John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum

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Reading Time: 3 minutes

Date watched: March 24, 2023
Date Reviewed: March 25, 2023

Review

Friday night I returned to the world of John Wick in preparation for the latest instalment, which I was off to see on Saturday.

In Chapter 2, we left John Wick after he had broken the rules of The Continental by killing someone on the grounds of the hotel. He had been given one hour before being deemed excommunicado and that is where Chapter 3 begins.

As the clock strikes ten past five, it appears to have been an extraordinary long ten minutes, as New York has passed from a sunny day to a heavy rainy night. And that’s the kind of detail that this film continues with throughout its runtime.

The opening twelve minutes of screentime cover the remaining fifty minutes of the hour before John’s excommunicado status comes into effect, and a lot of that are time calls as to how the hour is progressing. Yet later in the film when there is a seven-day timeline, the audience is given no concept of how much time has passed. We just magically arrive at seven days.

One of my biggest issues is what happens once the hour is up. No scratch that, a few minutes before the hour is up. When we first met John Wick back in the first film, everyone who knows (of) him is scared of his reputation – you do not mess with this dude. A kid makes a mistake and kills his dog, setting off a chain of events where now hundreds of people are dead or severely wounded. He killed three guys with a pencil after all! So why is it now, that literally every person on the street wants to have a crack at killing him? Is John Wick not as scary for a $14M price tag? Is the price tag worth dying for on the off chance they can get to him? Honestly it just makes no sense.

I also can’t seem to work out if the film takes itself too seriously or is taking the mickey. It feels like some cast members have been told it is a drama, while the others to have a bit of fun with it. You’ve got some heavy hitters with Halle Berry and Jerome Flynn joining the cast who give straight, dare I say serious, performances in what are at times ridiculous situations. Then you’ve got Mark Dacascos, who was my favourite part of the film, bringing some whimsy to the table.

Chapter 3 also looks to give us more history into the world of the assassins and the layers to the character of John. Yet here too they have appeared to fail. There are multiple threads introduced, some interesting, but they ultimately go nowhere.

A positive from the last two films, was the addition of two new female characters.

Unfortunately, the scenes with Halle Berry didn’t add value to the plot. This section of the film could have been removed quite easily saving runtime with no impact on the plot. The included action scene however was one of the better ones, returning to the look of a video game and bringing back memories of playing laser tag.

The character of The Adjudicator on the other hand, played by Asia Kate Dillon, was of interest and something that I enjoyed. This character fit in well with the world that has been built and played off well against Ian McShane’s character of Winston.

In conclusion the third instalment of the John Wick series does move the story along and includes several more action sequences, building up to some good ones towards the end. There are knives, guns, horses, and dogs. So, if you don’t mind plot holes and a lot of action with one-liners, then this would be a film for you.

Rating:  Disappointment

Action

John Wick: Chapter 2

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Reading Time: 3 minutes

Date watched: March 19, 2023
Date Reviewed: March 19, 2023

Review

If you’ve read my previous review for the first John Wick film, you may be surprised to find that for the second night in a row, I’ve watched the next instalment. What can I say, I’m committed to the cause. Plus, I didn’t have a lot of wiggle room in my schedule to have a night off.

Initially I was concerned as the runtime for the sequel is another 21 minutes longer and the opening sequence felt like it was going to be a rinse and repeat of the first. However, I am happy to report that I found Chapter 2 much more enjoyable than the first!

One could say a contributing factor may be that my expectations started off low and while conscious of this fact, I don’t think that’s the sole reason.

John Wick: Chapter 2 certainly followed some of the same patterns as the first instalment and for a franchise that make sense as you want to establish what your brand is about. The difference is this one feels like it has a little bit more going on. It’s a good example of a simple plot done right. They obviously had some learnings and/or more freedoms to do what they wanted in chapter 2.

There were improvements with the dialogue as well as the acting. Nice to see a bit of a Matrix reunion building with the addition of Lawrence Fishburne. At times I did find some of the dialogue ridiculous but there was more going on to district from these things which is why I don’t think I was as bothered.

I do have to make mention of the lack of women representation in the main cast that has carried over. One of the women is only included for a scene (don’t worry, not a spoiler) and the other cannot speak. I did like the idea of having a character in that world who signs, and she has a pretty high position. They could have easily cast another man in the role and I guess not many of the men in similar roles have that many lines. I’ll be interested to see how this may or may not change in the next couple of instalments, as there is room for improvement.

Now, onto the good stuff.

Again, this film is shot beautifully well. It has a very good look to it, so another kudos to the direction and cinemaphotography – it seems they have also kept the things done right! While I don’t play many video games myself anymore, these films do give off the feeling like the viewer is watching a video game play out. And I like it!

The action sequences were quite enjoyable with a wide variety on show including cars, guns, knives, and fists. Even the random explosions felt like they were done better in chapter two. Fans can also enjoy a return on the build-up of the killing three guys with a pencil story.

My last call out will go to a cameo with Peter Serafinowicz. The scene he is in has a lot of great word play and it is just a delight. Serafinowicz has a great many credits but I always remember him from roles in Black Books and Spaced. So I was happy to see him and that he was in a great scene.

This now leaves me in a tricky place on how I would rate this film. While I did enjoy it more than the first John Wick, I’m not sure that really makes it a ‘Good’ film either.

I would say that if these films are your jam, you’ll like this one but there are probably other films out there in the genre that would be better.

Rating:  Alright

Action

John Wick

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Reading Time: 3 minutes

Date watched: March 18, 2023
Date Reviewed: March 18, 2023

Review

The John Wick franchise are a set of films that I haven’t quite gotten around to watching. Like many, I’m a Keanu Reeves fan and of action films but for whatever reason haven’t seen.

I now have a very pressing reason to catch up – with Chapter 4 being released this week, I have a friend who would like to see it for her birthday. And while these types of films probably don’t require you to see them all, that’s just not how I operate. Plus, it gives me the chance to finally watch them and see what all the hype is about!

I also found it a nice tribute to the late Lance Reddick who sadly passed away today.

Now if you’re not the kind of person who enjoys senseless killings and a lot of violence as part of your entertainment viewing, this film probably isn’t going to be for you. I don’t mind these kinds of films as a way of switching off, so no issue for me to proceed.

I went into the film knowing the basic plot that has become a meme over the last decade – don’t kill Keanu’s dog!

However dear reader, after watching the film this evening, I have to tell you – that was tough to get through.

I guess I might be one of the very few people on the planet who did not enjoy this film and it’s one that I won’t be returning to in the foreseeable future.

The synopsis of the film on IMDB is described as:

An ex-hit-man comes out of retirement to track down the gangsters that killed his dog and took his car.

And that pretty much describes the whole film. Nothing really happens to progress the plot or characters any further. The film does try to be a bit creative by starting with the final scene, then going back in time and slowly releasing information over the course of the next 101 minutes.

It’s not too long before things get a bit tedious and repetitive. It’s rare that I’m conscious of the film’s runtime yet tonight there were a couple of times I found myself hoping the film was nearly finished.

There were little glimpses of interesting plot points that failed to develop, which leads to the film’s biggest weakness – the script. The dialog isn’t well written, which doesn’t give the cast much to work with. Even the scenes without dialogue were confusing. Two words for you: angry driving.

I also found some of the casting either misplaced or the acting just poor. While the script was poor some of the actors gave better performances than others.

On a positive note, I did enjoy a number of the action sequences and at times creative. Queue pinning a guy down while John changes the magazine in his gun after running out of bullets, before going on to shoot him.

The film also had a nice look to it and was shot very well. There were a number of camera angles that I really enjoyed.

So no, my issue was not with all the senseless killing and violence. I just didn’t find it as enjoyable as I do with a Guy Richie film for example. I think John Wick (the film) takes itself a little bit too seriously. Surely the poor writing and bad acting isn’t an attempt of humour is it?

For my tastes, I would say that Kingman: The Secret Service, released in the same year, is a far superior film.

While I do think that simple plot films can do well, I would prefer some layers and as well as wit.

Let’s see if any of the sequels get better…

Rating:  Disappointment

Action, Drama

Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves

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Reading Time: 3 minutes

Date watched: January 7, 2023
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2023

Review

The Robin Hood story has always been a favourite of mine and I grew up watching the Disney version from 1973 (yes, the cartoon one) and Mel Brook’s Robin Hood: Men in Tights. In later years the BBC version in 2006 also became a favourite.

Yet despite Men in Tights being on high rotation, I don’t think I’ve ever actually seen Prince of Thieves and after Netflix flogging the fact it’s now available in the UK and Ireland, I succumbed, found another streaming service it was available for in my region, and gave it a go.

So first off, Men in Tights is such a great parody. Even though I haven’t watched it for years I could clearly see what character traits and scenes were used. It’s so well done; I can’t wait to re-watch Men in Tights again.

Which now brings us back to the focus of this review. If I had to describe the film in one word, it would be; Trashtastic.

I found it so camp and over the top. By the amount of laughing, you would think this would be a comedy.

The writing was poor, as were many of the action scenes, and I found the camera angles to be quite odd at times (take a look at the scene where the Sheriff is threating to cut out Will’s tongue). I’m not sure if there were going for something creative in that regard but it was just off putting with everything else going on.

Kevin Costner in the lead role of Robin doesn’t even attempt at an English accent, so I guess that it makes sense that in the casting of King Richard they would look no further than the master of accents, Sean Connery.

I would have liked to have seen more of Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio as Maid Marion. When we are first introduced to her there is promise of a stronger role however as the film processes, the female lead mostly ends up screaming for help from her lead male actor. This is more a reflection of the time the film was released and I’m glad to see in more recent adaptions Marion having more grit.

As for other casting notations I enjoyed the casting of Michael Wincott as the Guy of Gisborne. He is a favourite of mine from other classic 90s films such as The Crow and The Three Musketeers and Christian Slater as Will Scarlett is the perfect addition of eye candy. I wonder if this is the trend that started of Will always being the hot one? If you know, leave me a comment.

However, there is only one reason that you need to watch this film and his name is Alan Rickman. The eccentric performance he gives this film gives the impression he had a lot of fun with the role. He brings a camp, horny, over the topness energy and has most of if not all the best lines. From cancelling Christmas to threatening to cut your heart out with a spoon!

It doesn’t really bode well for a film where Morgan Freeman doesn’t get a mention here and one of the best features is a Bryan Adams song.

If you are a fan of Men in Tights but haven’t seen the source material, it’s worth a one time watch to see how good a parody it is. If you are an Alan Rickman fan, same thing, good for a one time watch for the performance alone.

And if you are a fan of Robin Hood, there are better adaptions out there.

Rating:  Alright

Action, Comedy

Bullet Train

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Reading Time: 3 minutes

Date watched: August 27, 2022
Date Reviewed: August 31, 2022

Review

Saturday night I went to see the latest action flick from director David Leitch, Bullet Train. I’d seen the trailer a number of times in the months leading up to the release, which really gave nothing away. While the film looked interesting, it wasn’t one that I put on the watch list immediately.

I’m glad I got the opportunity to see the film because it was a lot of fun!

Bullet Train isn’t just your average action film. While it delivers on the expectations of great action sequences, it’s also funny, and well written. There are many layers to the film, which is why I suspect the trailers released don’t give too much away. Each detail in the film is placed there for a purpose. Even down to the runtime, which is the same time a Bullet Train from Tokyo to Kyoto will take.

Luck is the primary theme explored in the film, in how it is perceived, how it is used, and its affect. Each character has a different relationship to luck from using it to an advantage to making your own.

Leading the ensemble cast of codenamed guns for hire is Brad Pitt’s Ladybug, who considers himself to have incredible bad luck and has recently started therapy after the disasters from his last few jobs – someone always ends up getting killed when that is not the intension. Some might say unavoidable in his line of work but from the very first moment we meet him we start to get an understanding of how things don’t go to plan for him.

Ladybug is hired for a simple snatch and grab job – find a suitcase with a train sticker on the handle and then exit the train at the next stop. Of course, with his bad luck, things aren’t that simple and it’s not long until it becomes apparent that there are a number of other assassins on the train after the same suitcase.

Brad Pitt gives a stellar performance in the role and while he really makes the film, I also enjoyed the characters of Tangerine and Lemon (aka the twins) played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Brain Tyree Henry. They provide a lot of the comedy within the film as well as some touching emotional moments. As actors, they work very well together. The remainder of the cast, including several cameos, are all fantastic, but you’ll need to go see the film to learn more about them!

The film has many great action sequences included, which can be quite violent but at the same time aren’t overly gory. David Leitch also directed Deadpool 2 if that gives you a better idea of the style to expect. No doubt this film carries a high body count.

One of my favourite sequences is towards the beginning of the film with Tangerine and Lemon arguing over the number of people they killed before getting on the train – sixteen or seventeen. We are then presented with a sequence accompanied by music from Engelbert Humperdinck which breaks the fourth wall, each victim being counted as they are taken out, in a number of often hilarious ways.

As well as great action sequences, the film’s soundtrack of pop-rock is enjoyable and goes towards setting the fun tone the film has. It also features a few Japanese covers of classic songs including Stayin’ Alive and Holding Out for a Hero that I really enjoyed.

If action films are your jam, you’ll have a lot of fun seeing Bullet Train. And why you may not need to see it at the cinema, it does look great up on the big screen and a good option for a date night.

Rating:  Great