HBO Weekend At The BFI

There are always cool films and events on at the BFI. This month to coincide with the launch of The Pacific there is HBO Weekend. I'd quite like to go to all the events though sadly Larry David's talk is already sold out. I booked tickets for David Simon's Treme premiere though. There's still a few left so get in there quick.

GET DETAILS, TICKETS AND THAT HERE

Shutter Island

Saw this at the weekend and can definitely recommend it. The story/ premise isn't perfect but the direction is superb.

Scorsese gets his Hitchcock on for sweeping shots in breathtaking locations. The costumes, production design and soundtrack are all great. DiCaprio is solid with Ben Kingsley and Mark Ruffalo on form in support. One to see at the cinema.

My Films Of 2009

Fish Tank

Andrea Arnold's second feature (after Red Road) is my favourite film of the year. It features a stunning central performance by unknown Katie Jarvis- playing a alienated teenager on a grim Essex estate. Her mother's boyfriend- played superbly by Michael Fassbender- turns her world upside down when he enters her life. As good as any British film released in the noughties.

Up

Pixar's latest was hilarious and heartwarming without ever resorting to cliche or crass humour.

Gran Torino

Clint Eastwood's rumoured last acting role was fitting. This film had a serious message but was also unexpectadly hilarious with very un-PC themes.

Milk

The 70s were evoked perfectly in this tale of gay rights activist Harvey Milk. Director Gus Van Sant assembled a perfect ensemble cast with Josh Brolin and Oscar winning Sean Penn (in the title role) standing out.

Revolutionary Road

Brit' Sam Mendes secured his place as one of the world's best directors with the sumptuous photography on this heartbreaking suburban story. But really this was all about his wife Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio who reminded me why they're A list stars.