foz_e_bear

The Cooler is hardly one of the best films of the year but it does manage to hold your interest, and entertain. It's a underdog movie all the way; William H. Macy convincingly plays a likable loser who passes on his bad luck to all around him, a talent, you can imagine worth a lot of money to a casino owner! Indeed Macy isn't on his own in portraying believable characters; Baldwin, as the casino owner, is at times a terrifying individual, one of his best roles he's played in quite some time. However, although the characters are mostly believable, the plot isn't. Things fit in a bit too smoothly, which leads to a very predictable movie, a pity really because the idea behind the script is something new. It's a film I'd recommend, but don't expect to be challenged. Good acting (with the notable exception of Shawn Hatosy), nicely shot, and with a feel-good, cheer for the under-dog vibe, make it hold up.

I Went Down is a gem of a movie. Although it has been fairly overlooked, it in my opinion is one of the best Irish movies to date. Before films like 'Lock, Stock...' and 'Intermission' made these colloquial crime-capers the fashion, this fast-paced, funny and thoroughly enjoyable action movie hit the big screens. Brendan Gleeson, as ever, is outstanding in his role as Bunny Kelly, but he's not on his own by any means. There are no other big names, but there is some very big performances. Much like the aforementioned 'Lock, stock...' the dialogue is what steals the show, but it's also well shot, and plot is great. I Went Down shouldn't be missed.

Amélie is arguably one of the most original and enjoyable films of the year. You'll find yourself involuntarily smiling throughout. The main character Amélie (played superbly by Audrey Tatou) is such a pleasant character, who you feel yourself really relating to. The support cast were outstanding too, and in the two hours you get to know so many of them so well. With very unusual photography and direction, special effects reminiscent of Ally McBeal, a very sweet story (which can sometimes seem a little bit jumpy), and characters that you genuinely care for Amélie is an absolute must-see. And even if you are put off by subtitles there is enough happening visually to keep anybody interested.