CYPRUS CINEMA GUIDE & FILM REVIEW
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THE TOXIC AVENGER (15)
This film contains scenes of action, adventure, and fantasy elements
FILM SYNOPSIS
This reboot of the cult classic splatter film from the 1980s sees an otherwise unassuming janitor turned into a mutant by radioactive waste. This comes after he receives a deadly diagnosis that his insurance won’t cover. His bad day turns worse when he’s transformed into a retribution-seeking boil-covered, green monster.
Genre: Action, Comedy, Fantasy Adventure, Science Fiction, Horror
Director: Macon Blair
Cast: Peter Dinklage, Jacob Tremblay, Taylour Paige
Runtime: 115 mins
Recommendation Score: 7/10 This film, which features a horrible, toxic accident that transforms a downtrodden janitor into a new evolution anti-hero, is a long-delayed revival of a gloriously puerile 1984 classic. Although a remake, this splatter horror comedy manages to stand on its own two feet and successfully offers something fresh, different and a little unexpected. Although the film has several things going for it, it does occasionally feel out of place when compared to other films of this genre.
As the story unfolds, it creates a whole new, intriguing suspense that helps to create a nice caveat after a slightly confusing, but thought-provoking start. This enhances an otherwise basic plot that becomes far more fulfilling when the mutant’s new purpose rises to the surface. This allows the film to develop an intriguing anti-hero element that creates an interesting narrative. This also allows the audience to engage more with the central character, who is often seen making random split-second decisions and ultimately breaking several rules to win the day. Ultimately, the film manages to deliver a fresh, high-octane adventure with a unique twist.
The constant escalation of danger and risk helps to keep the movement fresh, exciting, and unpredictable. The Toxic Avenger is also funny and charming, with a high joke rate. Its climax follows the Hollywood mandate that every superhero film must end with an epic showdown. All in all, a must-watch for fans of comic books and science fiction action-adventure.
THE NAKED GUN (15)
This film contains scenes of action, adventure, and fantasy elements
FILM SYNOPSIS
Only one man has the particular set of skills to lead ‘The Police Squad’ and save the world! Lt. Frank Drebin Jr. follows in his father’s slapstick footsteps.
Genre: Comedy, Action, Adventure
Director: Akiva Schaffer
Runtime: 85 minutes
Cast: Liam Neeson, Pamela Anderson, Paul Walter Hauser
Recommendation Score 8/10: It’s obvious from the start that this film has been created to make the audience laugh. Films, which seem to rely heavily on raw comedy, are no longer made, so it could be said that this film offers something completely different. The unadulterated slapstick, good-time comedy draws inspiration from the previous classic police story films. This continuation from the previous films further enhances it.
The film’s comical element is first-class. It manages to successfully bounce from scene to scene, engulfing audiences in a bounty of jokes. These are all cleverly overlaid in dialogue. The film also has several sight gags, one-liners and good overall goofy humour.
This film has all of the makings of a comic classic, so it’s essential viewing for fans of this genre. The film also manages to deliver a few surprises along the way. One comes in the form of the son of the former main star, Lt. Frank Drebin. A string of other comedic characters keeps viewers constantly engaged throughout the mayhem that ensues.
LILO & STITCH (K- Family)
This film contains scenes of violent action and horror.
FILM SYNOPSIS
Set in Hawaii, this sun-soaked live-action remake sees Lilo once again team up with Stitch to confront an alien threat.
Genre: Family, Comedy, Science Fiction Adventure
Director: Dean Fleischer Camp
Runtime: 140 Minutes
Cast: Chris Sanders, Hannah Waddingham, Billy Magnussen, Jason Scott Lee
Recommendation Score 7/10: This film is a faithful, albeit uninspired, adaptation of the original animated story. Although a little cliché, it does manage to offer something quite different and does a good job of transforming Stitch into a furry 3D live-action hero with some impressive teeth.
The film successfully manages to capture the core elements of the original story. It takes full advantage of a winning formula in the form of a classic good vs evil mould. This remake largely adheres to the major plot points and storyline of the original film. Equally, it also exploits the relationship between Lilo, Nani and Stitch. This film also effectively portrays the importance of ‘ohana,’ or family, which is also a core theme of the original film.
Some clever direction enables the audience to accept the story, keeping the film relevant and the audience continually engaged. The happy atmosphere and the often bright scenery also tend to enhance the film’s entertaining message. All of this is aptly complemented by the happy-go-lucky soundtrack. The expertly done 3D animation also enhances the viewer experience, making this film a must for all fans of animated characters! I am sure this winning formula will be repeated soon, and I am already looking forward to Disney’s next film in this mould.
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON (12)
This film features comedic elements and mild action sequences.
FILM SYNOPSIS
The close friendship between Hiccup, an inventive Viking, and Toothless, a Night Fury dragon, becomes key to both species uniting to face an ancient threat that endangers everyone on the isle of Berk.
Genre: Family, Adventure, Comedy, Drama
Director: Dean DeBlois
Runtime: 135 Minutes
Cast: Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gerard Butler
Recommendation Score 7/10: Although a reboot, this is a one-of-a-kind, enchanting film. It manages to take the audience to a whole new level. The film centres on the emotional rollercoaster that surrounds the main character, Hiccup. He is portrayed in a way that creates a great balance between him and his best friend Toothless, who happens to be a Night Fury dragon! The message of endearing friendship above all else is central to the story. This is portrayed by Hiccup, who constantly goes against the rules of the tribe by putting his friendship with Toothless at the forefront of everything.
The film manages to portray messages of kindness, respect and friendship that will appeal to both young and old viewers. It also has some amazing colourful characters and an exciting plot. There are also several sweet and endearing moments that all come together nicely.
The cinematography is accompanied by a creative musical score. Both of these elements help to get this film firmly over the finishing line. The clever script intricately tailors a path through this supernatural world that, for once, is not dominated by computer-generated graphics. The chemistry between both lead roles also creates a good sub-plot, and the comedic elements of this film work well with the dynamic action scenes. All in all, a great film to watch!
SUPERMAN (12)
This film contains scenes of extreme action and mild violence, incorporating elements of fantasy and science fiction.
FILM SYNOPSIS
Superman, the embodiment of truth, justice, and the American way, now finds himself part of a world that has changed and views his values as old-fashioned. This forces the superhero to reconcile his heritage with his human upbringing.
Genre: Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Director: James Gunn
Runtime: 135 Minutes
Cast: Nicholas Hoult, Isabela Merced, Frank Grillo
Recommendation Score 7/10: This film is a wildly entertaining superhero action-adventure that offers the audience something a little different. Whilst it sticks to the genre’s superhero saves the world formula, it remains unlike other Superman films. Overall, the film offers something a little more thought-provoking. The film manages to take the audience on a rollercoaster ride that sees the all-action superhero once again struggle to save the world.
The film successfully delivers several of the same superhuman action scenes that have helped carve a niche for the Superman franchise over the years. However, whilst the film takes full advantage of the comic book hero winning formula, it does see Superman begin to question the world’s changing narratives. This film, although predictable, effectively creates a tipping balance between good and evil. This is often set against a slightly darker, gritty atmosphere that helps to further enhance the films message.
Although the film sees our hero constantly battling mental as well as physical challenges, there are several ‘feel-good’ moments. The subtle music score aptly enhances the storyline as the predictable, yet entertaining plot progresses. With misinformation and lies at the forefront, Superman continues to battle adversity to set everything right again. With this in mind, the film sends a wonderful message of traditional values, kindness, goodness, and hope! Ultimately, a worthwhile watch for action and comic book fans.
