Holocinema

In many aspects the film is derivative (Bladerunner like visuals mixed with goth rock music and characters with tragic almost Shakespearean destinies), immature (the plot line doesn't really concentrate on anything specific: is it about the heritage of the founder of Geneco or the relationship between Shilo and her father? (the Surgeon/Repoman), and middle of the road (the violence is too goofy and repetitive to make an impact, there is no real suspense). But it is exciting at times and some songs are energetic and catchy(Testify, Legal Assassin) . It's the king of film that you really want to like because it has the elements to become a cult film. But it's ultimately occasionally cheap and boring for an over-the-top rock opera. It's a fun ride but doesn't leave any food for thought and fails to truly shock or impress...

This short film was in competition at the Cannes films Festival this year(2008). It follows two teenagers that leave class and meet in the record store looking for the next Buzzcocks single. As there is only one copy left they have to listen to it together. Soon enough it becomes into a very funny and honest discovery of sex. Great actors and nicely done, this is definitely one of the coolest portrayals of first time sex I've ever seen on screen, and was well deserving of the Palme D'Or (that eventually went to the short about the kid with divorced parents who wants a robot called "Megatron" - cute, but come on!). I'm now looking forward to other work by the director Sam Taylor Wood! PS: The film is dedicated to Anthony Minghella's memory

Although the weakest in the UK trilogy, the film is still a worthy effort in tragic film-making. For some reason it doesn't seem to reach it's full potential, I'm not convinced by the naturalistic cinematography ( a bit to sober and murky ), although it conveyed a sense of realism it made it difficult to follow expressions in the characters (specially because Allen uses few close ups - you tend to need more light to see detail in the wide shots), the ending is a bit abrupt, and the build up isn't as effective as it is in "Match point". Sadly the trilogy ends with a whimper instead of a bang, but it's still Woody Allen at his best in many regards...