mikemikeparker

I love Black Mirror - it is an amazing series which is a true successor to the wonderful Twilight Zone. This episode is unlike most others for a few reasons. Firstly, it's a two-hander and rests on the performance of the actors. They rise to that challenge brilliantly. Giamatti in particular is a revelation. I knew he was good, but this is an Oscar worthy performance - powerful, nuanced, multifaceted and deeply moving: he commands every scene. He plays a deeply flawed but ultimately likeable character who we come to care for, and share his grief.

Secondly, the themes of the episode are also film-worthy. It deals with lost love, and has an elegiac yearning throughout. It reflects on the past, and the quirks of fate that shape our lives. Brooker explores how one event can profoundly affect us, changing our very psyche.

I am in awe of how Brooker can turn out such high quality writing in such quantity...I can only think of one other writer like this: Rod Sterling. The episode felt deeply personal to Brooker, as if he was exploring his own memories. Like the best of Black Mirror, the technology was incidental - it was all about character and sadness. I was deeply moved and don't ever think I will forget this flawless episode.

I must admit that my high mark for this film is based principally on the stunning visuals of the film - superb art work, wonderful photography and a clear directorial vision make this film a treat to watch. Carfax is an amazing creation, worthy of any great Gothic novel and clearly referencing the first Universal studios 'Dracula' starring Bela Lugosi, made in 1931. Incredibly this version of the novel is Universal Studios' first new version of Dracula since then. The asylum is also straight out of a nightmare and very disturbing in its depiction of lunacy and chaos. The acting of some minor roles is poor but the lead actors are great - in particular Frank Langella as Dracula, who has a charm and charisma which reflects some part of Stoker's original depiction. Pleasance is perfect and Olivier is, as always, masterful. Nelligan does the sexy and the evil very well indeed. Tony Haygarth (one of the great unsung actors of his day) is excellent as Renfield and manages to steal his scenes with Langella. The plot whizzes along at a great pace and reaches a very satisfying (and unique) ending. My only quibble is that the plot has very little to do with the book - the writers simply steal the best bits and slam them together to make this film's storyline! However, it's a thoroughly entertaining and beautifully envisaged films, and I recommend it whole heartedly.

Okay, I understand the science is absolutely crackpot, but I do think the IMDB score is very low. The acting is very sound , especially from seasoned actors like Geoffrey Chater and Martin Benson. Forrest Tucker was good at playing Forrest Tucker and the female lead is very good at conveying intelligence and fear, even if she was dubbed! The misogynistic male attitudes are typical of the time and at least they are countered by the female lead. The actual SF elements are great fun: electrical interference in the local pub, giant insects, ray guns and a flying saucer. Benson is a convincing alien. The actual scary bits are quite successful and one bit (involving a dead soldier) is surprisingly graphic for the time. The film moves at a good pace and builds to a satisfying ending. All in all, a fun and very enjoyable time is had by all!