This most comprehensive look at the making of the original Star Wars trilogy ever produced examines the early concepts, the deals, the production hell and then the eventual success of George Lucas' space opera. With commentaries from the cast and crew and stories about how a little movie that was looked upon as an impending box office disaster became a cultural phenomenon. Empire of Dreams is one of my favourite documentaries of all time that takes an extensive dive into Star Wars' success and George Lucas' genius. We are allowed to see the structures that formed the most influential movies in cinematic history laid out piece by piece. I have been a huge Star Wars fan for as long as I can remember. They entertained me, captivated me and simply blew my mind. I was fascinated in every way by this behemoth of a franchise and was utterly thrilled to see an extensive look behind its making as I put in my copy of the Bonus Material DVD. A chance to see the inner workings of Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977), Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983) in all their glory felt like a must for any fan. As well as with Star Wars, I have equally been a long-time enthusiast of seeing the behind-the-scenes construction of the filmmaking process, the implementation and workings of practical special effects plus the build-up to every piece of the jigsaw come together with the final product. It is truly eye-opening and not only shows the grand display of imagination and creativity at play but it equally awakens that spark of potential within ourselves. We begin with a look into George Lucas' early years with his study of filmmaking alongside other soon-to-be greats like Steven Spielberg and how his obvious talent led to the opportunity to create films such as his hit, American Graffiti (1973). Lucas was becoming more noticeable as an up-and-coming director. He now felt he could focus on a project he had been working on in the background, a science fiction epic. Lucas began planning out the story for what would become Star Wars, which he was inspired by 1930s Flash Gordon serials, old Japanese samurai movies and other products. Whilst a science fiction at face value, Lucas opted for an equal mythological approach bringing a mysticism element. Almost like a fairy tale adventure but in space. This is apparent with the young eager adventurer, the old wise 'wizard', a swashbuckler and a damsel, but even then it is given a sweeping breath of fresh air. Science fiction movies at the time of the early 70s were not so popular and considered a bad investment however 20th Century Fox gave Lucas the chance. The majority of the documentary is spent covering the creation of the first film, simply titled, Star Wars. Since it is the first entry there was plenty to uncover from the initial casting tapes, set building, concept art, marketing, composing the score, sound design and my favourite, the forming of ILM the special effects crew. I loved hearing the interviews with the actors and crew accompanied by older footage giving further insight into those moments like auditions and off-screen banter. I also adored seeing how the effects came together with the use of models, the strange locations and origins of the 'futuristic' sounds, John William's composing of beautiful pieces and seeing the faces of some lesser-seen actors. We all know the rough journey it took in making the movie with the amount of difficulties endured that equally caused Lucas many problems. Despite it all, the film was finished, released and feared to be a huge flop but, was instead, a renowned success, allowing Lucas to continue the story. We see further in-depth looks into Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi with their accomplishments, hardships and formations. Overall, Empire of Dreams is a phenomenal guide to the original trilogy's creation that extensively breaks apart its development, showering us with engrossing knowledge. I found myself beaming with joy throughout making me feel proud to be a Star Wars fan. A definitive documentary for any enthusiast. Also, check out Light & Magic (TV Series 2022) for a deeper look into ILM's story.
Single mother to daughter Molly, DI Alex Drake has rapidly risen through the ranks of the Met and, in the modern world of 2008, skillfully uses psychological profiling to capture suspects. However, Alex is shot in the head by a mad gunman, suddenly awakening in 1981. Interacting with familiar characters, not just from her lifetime, but also from the detailed reports logged by none other than Sam Tyler. DCI Gene Hunt is back, flanked by his faithful sidekicks, Ray Carling and Chris Skelton, but will he be able to get on with Alex? Following on from the phenomenal show, Life On Mars (TV Series 2006-2007), we are brought an equally exceptional addition to this fascinating world that sees fatally injured cops transported into the past with no idea as to its reality or not. This time we are in 1981, where Hunt and team have vacated from Manchester to London and Sam Tyler has mysteriously disappeared. Thrown into the mix is our new protagonist, DI Alex Drake, who like us, is craving answers to this phenomenon as she is ripped from her world and daughter into a peculiar, alien land. Alex has an arguably greater affinity for getting back than Sam being a single mother who needs to get back to her young child. Alex equally has more going in her favour when hurtled into this setting having studied Sam's report of his experience when he temporerily returned to the modern day leaving all his findings and experiences to be analysed. She knows all about the characters like Gene as well as all the speculations of Sam's experience. Her skills in psychological profiling make her a force to reckon with as she fundamentally aids the team in cracking some of the harder cases. Upon her immediate arrival to this world, we are greeted with a marvellous introduction from none other than Gene Hunt himself who speeds onto the scene in his bright, gleaming red Quattro accompanied by Ray and Chris. The return of these characters from Life on Mars was simply awesome with each having slightly altered looks matching the times but with their same unaltered mannerisms. Gene is still arguably the best character across both shows with his frequent witty dialogue and unrivalled temper that is frequently put to use on criminals. Ray and Chris have grown too that only further develops throughout the seasons. I'd have to say I much preferred Ray in this series as whilst he was great, his 'rivalry' with Sam made him a bit unlikable, whereas he is extremely fleshed out here and given many occasions to show a more human side. Chris still has a childish naivety, larking about, offering plenty of spectacular gags. We are introduced to new members of the crew too, WPC Shaz and Sergeant Viv. Shaz represents the female side of the law during the time and she looks up to Alex, who takes charge, not taking the behaviour or comments of her peers. Viv works on the front desk delivering news to the Gov and overseeing any who come and go in the department from prisoners to contraband, etc. With each season, Alex undergoes new challenges from trying to save her parents from a car explosion whilst haunted by a creepy clown. Uncovering corruption in the workplace under the mysterious 'Operation Rose' whilst a man who knows all about Alex and what is truly happening in this reality lingers in the shadows. Or the investigation into Gene Hunt and his office by DCI Jim Keats who attempts to twist Alex's judgement to undo Hunt, uncovering what happened to Sam. Each season got progressively better with a slow start that picked up into a running speed. I loved how each season focused on one new narrative and 'bad guy' whilst keeping it overarching. I also love that the show's final season managed to wrap up the story of not only this series but Mars too, answering what this world is and who Hunt is in an outstanding finale that is unbelievably magnificent. Overall, Ashes to Ashes was a beautifully crafted continuation and conclusion to the plot line laid out in Life on Mars. The characters are equally entertaining as before and the new members stand beside them, delivering equal levels of quality. I was incredibly hooked and so glad to witness something so fresh and unique. So worth watching!
(Unfortunatly only the 2nd Season intro is available on YouTube so I cannot show the 1st and 3rd versions)
Series Trailers:
Hilarious 'Uptown Girl' Dream Sequence:
During the show, Alex sees many strange things but none so brilliant as the sequence where she dreams everyone performing a take on the 'Uptown Girl' music video. Absolutely hysterical!
After a near-fatal car accident, smart, savvy, sharp-suited detective Sam Tyler is mysteriously transported back 33 years to 1973. Confused by his new surroundings, Sam tries to return to the present, but the police force of long ago needs his help. Life on Mars is undoubtedly one of the most captivating shows I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing in recent memory. I was instantly blown away by its vast rich stories that culminate into one overarching narrative, its style, loveable and engrossing characters and above all, its bizarre and intriguing mystery. We follow Sam Tyler, a DCI (Detective Chief Inspector) in the then-current year of 2006 who is deep in a case that slowly becomes quite personal for him. However, he's hit by a car, awakening to find himself in the 1970s with his outfit, car and surroundings drastically altering. Is Sam Tyler dreaming, in a coma, or has he travelled back in time? If so, how does he get home? Upon his transportation, I was immediately hooked as the now DI Tyler fumbled around in confusion to everything around him. This jarring experience is as confusing to us as to Sam and his constant search for answers or discoveries only further puzzles us. To make matters worse, Sam is frequently experiencing visions, voices and feelings that are linked to the 'real world'. From the TV characters talking to him, and the radios changing mid-song, Sam experiences many unusual interactions that only make him look mad in front of his peers. Whilst in this '73 setting, Sam continues his policing work, under vastly different methods led by the equal highlight of the series, DCI (Guv) Gene Hunt. Of all the characters in this program, Gene Hunt is arguably the most popular and my favourite of the team. His lines are unmatched with plenty of comebacks, sayings and mannerisms that make him truly loveable and utterly hilarious despite essentially being a terrible person. He doesn't shy away from breaking down doors, beating up suspects or arresting anyone who gets in his way whether they are innocent or not. Me and my family love to quote him in our day-to-day lives and would wait with anticipation for his next line. The contrasting relationship between the rugged style of Hunt and the modern-day, more practical side of Tyler makes for some fantastic viewing. They bicker and differ but at the be-all and end-all, they always do what's right in the end, overcoming any obstacle and sharing a bit of banter. The other members of Hunt's CID (Criminal Investigation Department) include Ray Carling, Chris Skelton, Annie Cartwright, Phyllis Dobbs and plenty of non-speaking background characters who are ever-present. Each character shows an unswerving loyalty to the Guv and some do come to care for Sam, looking up to him as a role model, although some don't (most especially Ray). Sam hits it off well with Annie though, who during the first season is a WPC and is usually overlooked by the others, however, Sam always places his confidence in her and the two share some sparks over the show's run. Annie grows exponentially over the second season as Sam puts her forward to be a DC and join the crew in their more prominent missions. Each episode told a unique story that would vastly vary from a hostage crisis, bomb scare, murder, conspiracies, undercover operations, etc. Sam, having his future knowledge, offers much insight in solving cases and even uncovering criminals because it has already happened by his time. During each exciting adventure, there would be a tie to Sam's struggle of wanting to return home with the world showing signs from his 2006 life. The finale of the second season is certainly one of the most tense storylines with the will or won't he get back and I'm not going to spoil it here but the ending is gripping television. Overall, Life on Mars is a phenomenal series that captures the setting of the 70s with full force, hurtling not only Sam but, us the viewer, into 'another world'. Everything looks magnificent across the board and the music choices are brilliant. This is a pinnacle must-see show. If you loved it, check out the sequel Ashes to Ashes (TV Series 2008-2010) for a trip to the 1980s following Alex Drake's experience.
Seasons & Episodes: 2 Seasons - 16 Episodes
Creators: Matthew Graham, Tony Jordan, Ashley Pharoah
Almost three years after their last adventure in Rush Hour 2 (2001), Carter is now working as a Los Angeles traffic officer, while his friend and ace Hong Kong Police inspector, Lee, escorts the Chinese Ambassador, Han, to the World Criminal Court, to disclose crucial information about the Triads. However, after a botched assassination attempt, the mismatched duo find themselves in Paris, struggling to retrieve a list of Triad leaders' names, as the murderous crime syndicate's henchmen try their best to stop them. We reunite with Lee and Carter for their third outing in this trilogy. This last entry is usually considered the weakest link in the series and whilst I can agree in some areas, overall, I still had an awesome time. It may be ranked lowest in my listing of the movies, but it is by no means bad. On the contrary, this film features plenty of phenomenal moments that may even be considered some of the finest in the whole series. One of the main issues I felt was the time gap between this and the last totalling 6 years. It is a bit noticeable during the opening segment however as the adventure continued, it did start to feel like the other films and part of the same product. The movie opens with Carter, now demoted to a traffic officer, doing his usual routines of singing and cutting slick dance moves whilst he directs the cars. He is of course distracted, causing all kinds of accidents meanwhile, Lee is protecting Ambassador Han, whose daughter was kidnapped in Rush Hour (1998), but everything goes awry after getting shot leading to a high-speed chase. Crossing paths once again, the duo work together to put a stop to any further attempts on the Ambassador's life at the request of his daughter, Soo Yung, now all grown up. The duo are a little shakey at first, not being on the best of terms after Carter nonfatally shot Isabela from the last film who Lee was interested in. However as the story plays out, the two of them start to become closer again. Some truly hilarious and incredible scenes take place from here on out like the martial arts studio where the pair get relentlessly beaten by a giant, followed swiftly by the most iconic part of the film with Carter's "Who are you?" back and forth with Yu. Then there is the shootout at the hospital, which features so many unbelievable stunts and fantastic banter, like bickering over the empty gun Lee threw Carter whilst in the line of fire. Also, the interrogation scene of the french French-speaking Chinese man with a nun as the translator was outstandingly funny with her having to repeat some of the bad language of the guy only for Carter to tell her equally bad responses. Upon travelling to France, they get in a taxi where Carter gets irritated with the driver, George, who is bashing Americans and proceeds to hold him at gunpoint making him sing the national anthem, which is very amusing. It doesn't stop there as they both make an impression on the driver after getting him in chases and gunfights making him feel like an American spy. The chase was insanely good with motorbikes flying everywhere and George getting invested in the action. He is unironically the greatest aspect of the film with so many scenes and he even plays an integral role in the finale in a shocking moment that had me in hysterics. Carter continues to attempt wooing women this time with Geneviève is targeted by the Triads and both Lee and Carter rescue her during a performance by doing their own singing routine. The main villain in this flick is Kenji who has a personal connection to Lee, which led to some tense moments during the remarkable sword fight on the Eiffel Tower that continued to display Jackie Chan's exceptional stunts as Lee climbs and fights on the beams of the tower. The pair have individual troublesome tasks to overcome in this climax, but they each come through in the end. They make their leave by dancing to 'War' one last time, which is practically their theme song. Overall, I still had a joyful time with this lesser-regarded entry. Yes, it may have problems, but overlooking them, this is just as much fun, if not more at times, as the first two. With talks of a fourth entry yet to come to fruition, this is still a great place to end the series.
Lee and Carter are back! This time they're in Hong Kong. Carter wants a relaxing vacation, but Lee wants to carry on doing police work. At a nightclub, Lee spots the dangerous crime kingpin, Ricky Tan, who runs an evil gang of murderous Triads, and his partner is a woman who delivers explosive packages to unsuspecting parties. The duo find themselves neck-deep in trouble after one of the explosions is delivered to the American Embassy. Now, with the frequent threat of the Triads and their explosives, Lee and Carter must track down Ricky Tan, as the string of clues lead them back to Las Vegas. Following on from the highly successful, Rush Hour (1998) we join back with the loveable mismatched team in yet another crazy caper, however this time in Lee's territory. I was pleasantly surprised how this film followed on from the initial movie, picking up the story four days after the last scene where they board a plane to Hong Kong for a vacation. It feels like we never left (despite being made 3 years later) and I love how they continue many of the plot points and developments of the first flick, truly kidding you into thinking we never stopped watching them. The best example of this was seeing the pair singing to the Beach Boys in the car calling back to Lee's favouritism of the band, which was fantastic. Carter is in full vacation mode simply wanting to relax, chill and meet some women, unfortunately, Lee is having a hard time taking it easy as he keeps uncovering criminal behaviour and clues. It perfectly demonstrates their relationship and traits set up in the original. Lee takes on more cases ending up chasing gangs, battling them whilst climbing bamboo structures in yet another impressive display but almost gets the pair killed when one of the female members leaves them suspended at the top. Carter gets pretty mad with Lee over this fixation with working so Lee takes him to relax at a massage parlour much to Carter's satisfaction, however, it is owned by Ricky Tan, who Lee is currently investigating. It leads into one of the greatest fight sequences where Jackie Chan continues to display his impressive stunts as Lee who utilises his surroundings to beat his opponent. Tucker's Carter also displays some awesome fighting skills whilst only wearing a towel, delivering his usual banter and quick-fire lines that never fail to leave me in hysterics. It is such a fast-paced brawl that even Carter mistakingly punches Lee, which was hands down the funniest moment with Lee's expression of disbelief. The film features a great deal more twists and constantly leaves you guessing as to the motive of the Triads. Not only that, but a considerable amount of confusion lies with Isabella, who claims to be part of the Secret Service. Her loyalty always feels in flux making us weigh up whose side she is on, especially with Lee taking a fancy to her (as well as Carter) creating a difficulty in judgment for the Detectives. Whilst she does show evidence of counterfeit money existing she has an air of someone viable to double cross. There is equally more revealed about Lee's father and the link between him and Ricky that makes this mission all the more personal for Lee. As previously mentioned, the iconic duo still retain much of their friendship built in the first outing and they do honestly care for one another a great deal having each other's back in all their trials, even if they continue to bicker. There is no end to fights in this sequel with a hectic scrimmage at a casino in Vegas where Lee has a bomb tapped up in his mouth with the detonator being kicked about the floor creating a tense-filled piece. We also see Carter have a sword fight and the pair leap from an exploding building. Rush Hour 2 has no end to phenomenal, over-the-top action. Overall, like the first flick, I had an absolute ball with the second. I think it ties very closely with it in terms of enjoyment and everyone was in full force, catching just that same amount of magic in a bottle whilst delivering something new and fresh, not feeling like a complete rip. The duo have never been more engaging and the story was equally captivating. I'd highly recommend this as a worthy viewing, also check out the third title, Rush Hour 3 (2007).
In Nazareth, teenager Mary is betrothed to the local carpenter, Joseph. Mary is visited by an angel and told that she will fulfill a prophecy and as a virgin give birth to God's son, the savior of the world. Mary's pregnancy brings her the scorn of the community and Joseph struggles to believe her seemingly outlandish story. Meanwhile, a census forces every man and his family to return to his place of birth. Joseph and Mary set out on a long and arduous journey to Bethlehem that will coincide with the birth of Jesus. Over the years there have been plenty of iterations of this time-old tale but out of them all, this has to be one of the best in my opinion. This telling follows a realistic and lived-in approach that can be felt throughout in varying aspects from its acting, scenes, tone and picture. What I mean by this is I'm sure many are familiar with the bright and colourful depictions whereas this one has a slightly muted look and a more authentic appeal to the clothing/style. I think the overall look of this film has to be what makes it my favourite. I feel as though I have been transported into the time period and every shot feels glorious as it shows the vast landscapes travelled to Bethlehem or the grand cities. One of the most notable aspects of this version was a concentration on Mary and Joseph's relationship. They are both an important part of the Nativity story of course with Mary having the unorthodox pregnancy and Joseph claiming it to be his, protecting them. However, we don't get a great look into their relationship, which was an arranged marriage as Joseph loved her whereas she did not. With the further troubling appearance of a baby not belonging to Joseph, it made the situation more dire but with the guidance of an angel, he becomes more understanding. With the journey to Bethlehem, Mary comes to care for and love Joseph, which can be seen during a moment when Mary cleans Joseph's injured feet. I found their travel the most entertaining as we see countless snippets of their long journey from the troubles they encounter, the wonderous landscapes and the people. I found every scene fascinating, most especially to look at. The cinematography is nothing short of exceptional and gives such a scope and atmosphere packed into every section. Their story is an intriguing one to follow that most certainly shines thanks to actor, Oscar Isaac and actress, Keisha Castle-Hughes. Alongside their performance, everyone else does an equally fabulous job with the other most notable having to be the Three Wise Kings, Magi. They bring a delightful element to the film with their witty banter with one another, alternating from serious conversations to some light comical moments. I love how one of them, Gaspar, constantly disagrees about going, complaining all the way counting the days. That is until he arrives and sees for himself how tremendous the destination of the star was and what lay waiting there. The birth of Jesus was an exceptional sequence with the accompanied music of Mychael Danna who gives such a grandiose sensation to every scene and a calming effect for its tranquil segments. The visual of the stable was also just picture-perfect. It is a well-known piece of iconography and I felt that it was well represented here with the shepherds and Magi standing close by with the light of the star shining through a gap in the roof on Mary and her child. It was certainly a heartwarming depiction of the historical event that is sure to bring a smile to its viewers. I further like how much more weight the scene carries after a previous event that saw a shepherd give Mary and Joseph a moment to rest by a fire whilst exchanging some words, who would later visit them upon the angel's word, allowing them to interact once more. Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed The Nativity Story for many years now as part of our family tradition at Christmas. It is one I have come to appreciate over time and will likely continue to do so over the following years to come. A brilliant telling of Jesus' birth that is definitely worth checking out this Christmas time. I would also recommend Jesus of Nazareth (TV Mini Series 1977) for not only its phenomenal depiction of his later life but for its version of his birth.
This Christmas, primary school teacher Paul Maddens is charged with producing the school's nativity play. Competing against the posh rival school for the honour of the best-reviewed show in town, the stakes are raised when Paul idly boasts that his ex-girlfriend Jennifer, a Hollywood Producer, is coming to see his show to turn it into a film. The only trouble is, they haven't spoken in years. With eccentric assistant Mr Poppy fuelling his 'little white lie', Maddens suddenly finds himself a local celebrity and at the centre of quarrelling parents and over-excited children caught up in fame and fortune. Maddens' only hope is to get back in touch with Jennifer and lure Hollywood to town so that everybody's Christmas wishes come true. This British Christmas flick has always had a special place in my heart. I can recall watching it year in, year out, every Christmas time without fail, as it would become a tradition with my sister. This year was no exception as it continues to hold up, delivering a hilarious, light-hearted family fun caper set during the festive season. My favourite aspect of this film was the character of Paul Maddens, played by Martin Freeman, who spends the majority of the film having near panic attacks under the constant worsening of his 'small' lie. I found myself spending most of the film chuckling at his performance. I particularly loved his bewildered looks at the children's bizarre auditions to his furious expressions at Mr Poppy's childish and peculiar behaviour that constantly favours him with the students. His outbursts, however, are fantastic and my favoured scenes. They are almost always brought on by Mr Poppy, played by Marc Wootton who constantly pushes for unrealistic expectations for the nativity like, for example, using a 'death slide'. The two characters are instant highlights as their contrasting characteristics play off of one another perfectly, creating some of the most stupendous laughs and an unlikely friendship as the movie progresses. Mr Poppy is certainly an idiot but one of the more enjoyable kinds as his far-stretched ideas are so fun and quite simply ridiculous. Some of his antics include taking children on a school trip to see a woman giving birth to see how Jesus was born and stealing farm animals to be used in their show. He is bonkers yet hysterical. He is a big help with setting up the Nativity by making Mr Madden's songs more enjoyable for the students and a lot more upbeat. The songs have to be another favourite part of mine as they are extremely catchy. The lyrics are very well-written and equally clever. They are of course made to be cool and, in some of the songs, modern-like for the kids, but even then, they are funny and entertaining, not at all cringe-worthy. I adore the song 'She's the Brightest Star' it's too good and I cannot get enough of its groovy energy. The rest of the other songs are also notable being, 'Sparkle & Shine', 'Nazareth', 'Good News', 'One Look' and 'One Night, One Moment'. What I was most worried about with this 'modernised' take with singing and jokes there would be less focus on the significance of the Nativity story, however, they pay full respect to it in a beautiful way, especially when depicting Jesus' birth. The actual stars of the flick are naturally the students of the school St Bernadette's who are not in the least bit annoying. I thought they were very tolerable and equally delightful. Standing out above all else in this feature, nevertheless, is the rival posh school teacher and old friend to Mr Maddens, Gordon Shakespeare. He steals the show and every scene he is in with his over-the-top performance. He really gets into it and makes for an amusing 'bad guy' who tries to outdo Madden's show with the horrifying King Herod-themed play and expose him as a liar about Hollywood coming. It is interesting to note that this film was essentially improvised. There was no script to follow just plans for the scenes and the actors would act it out, which is crazy but surprisingly turned out phenomenally. Overall, Nativity! is a fabulous comedy for the whole family to enjoy this Christmas, with plenty of catchy songs, amusing characters and moments to laugh at. Also, check out the follow-up Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger! (2012).
