This weeks Top Movies on the Telly

Cool Hand Luke - (TCM Monday 30th April 21:00)
A film that has aged remarkably well, this Stuart Rosenberg directed film features incredible performances from Paul Newman (Oscar nominated) and George Kennedy (Oscar winner) in this engaging drama that lets it's exceptional script and talented cast do the heavy lifting. A classic!

Knocked Up - (ITV 2 Tuesday 1st May 21:00)
Written and directed by Judd Apatow is that rare beast in Hollywood in modern times - a comedy that's actually funny. A razor sharp script and some wonderful performances from Seth Rogen, Katerine Heigl,Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd combine to make this one of the better comedic efforts of the last few years. Highly enjoyable!

Hot Fuzz - (ITV 2 Wednesday 2nd May 21:00)
Second film in Edgar Wright's Cornetto Trilogy this action parody comedy may not be quite as brilliant as Shaun of the Dead but there is more than enough to keep fans of the genre entertained and the always reliable partnership of Pegg and Frost is joined here by some top notch performances from the likes of Jim Broadbent and a remarkable Timothy Dalton.

Review: Avengers: Infinity War - A visual feast to entertain the masses!

In this latest Marvel studios outing, Avengers: Infinity War brings to the screen the ultimate, deadliest showdown of all time. The Avengers and their allies must be willing to sacrifice everything  in an attempt to defeat the all mighty Thanos before his onslaught of devastation and ruin puts an end to the universe.
Eighteen marvel movies in and ten years in the making, Avengers:Infinity War was going to have to be something really special to surpass all the big budget, record breaking, jaw dropping spectacles that had gone before it and thankfully in the more than capable hands of Anthony and Joe Russo, what could have been a disaster (due to the vast size of the task being taken on!), actually turns out to be a rather enjoyable two and half hour exhibition that is bound to have fans of the series grinning from ear to ear!
Gathering an army of superheros, giving each one an arc in an epic storyline, creating visual pieces of unprecedented proportions and wrapping it all up in a 150 minute production can be a very problematic and risky feat (just ask those behind the recent Justice League movie!) but somehow in this instance the Russo brothers just about manage to pull it off.
Avengers:Infinity War should come with a hazardous warning however, knowledge and familiarity with the eighteen previous Marvel Studios films whereas not a necessity, will undoubtedly make this a more enjoyable experience. Packed with twists and turns that justified the code of silence that hung over production since the beginning, the script is filled with witty one-liners, the action sequences are incredible and the performances are rock solid - all qualities that have become the staple diet of Marvel Studios movies over the last decade.
As with all the Avengers films, fans of the franchise will be ecstatic with the results and even the non-believers will see enough here to deem this feature worthwhile
Whilst, this particular superhero feature may be that half hour too long (aren't they all?) there is more than enough to keep the huge crowds that will inevitably see this movie thrilled throughout!
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What movies to watch this weekend?

In the Cinema:

Avengers: Infinity War
One of the most anticipated cinematic moments of the year finally lands this weekend as "Now that's what I call Marvel superheroes" hits our big screens with this big budget, sense obliterating CGI fest visual spectacle sure to haul in the crowds. Has all the markings of a crowd pleaser and should not disappoint fans!



Streaming: 

The Hitman's Bodyguard (Netflix)
A throwback to the buddy movies of the 80's as Samuel L. Jackson and Ryan Reynolds star as the hitman and bodyguard of the title, who must overcome their differences (often to hilarious consequences) in the name of what is right! Low brow cliche ridden comedy that will however entertain!



On Telly

Grabbers (RTE Two Saturday 28th April 21:35)
Criminally underated Irish comic horror from director Jon Wright features an impressive Richard Coyle, Ruth Bradley and Russell Tovey all adding to what was a surprisingly funny and original film that deserved a lot more acclaim than received at time of release. Recommended!

A Golden Era of Film in Kerry

Next month sees the inaugural  May the Fourth Be With You Festival, a four day Star Wars themed event capitalising on the global success of Kerry's association with the franchise is timely reminder of the formidable reputation that this county has formed throughout the film industry.
Famously Kerry has gained notoriety throughout cinema history with its scenic beauty acting as a backdrop to such famous films as Ryans Daughter, The Quiet Man, Far and Away and most recently  The Lobster as well as Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi shining a strong light on the county as the ideal film location.
What is also apparent within the county, is the volume of talent we are now supplying within the film industry. Proud Kerryman Michael Fassbender is one of Hollywood's most reputable actors and Jessie Buckley star of the upcoming feature film Beast is also carving out a formidable career in Hollywood and is a name we are sure to hear a lot more of in the coming years.
Behind the camera, Killarney native Fodhla Cronin O'Reilly was just last year, BAFTA nominated for her work as producer on the chilling Lady MacBeth and the directorial works of the likes of Gerard Barrett and Eamon Norris have earned critical acclaim on the film festival circuit and strongly strengthened their reputation within the film industry.
Kerry also boasts no less than three films festivals in Dingle, Waterville and Killarney with all three festivals not only showcasing the best of local, national and international produced film but also the welcome and hospitality that only this county can provide.
The establishment of a new steering group made up of various agencies and experts from across the  film industry with a view to promoting Kerry both as a film destination and encouraging development within the sector is a clear indication of the support the industry is receiving locally with a €15,000 Bursary co funded by  Kerry County Council and Arts Council Ireland currently on offer for any film maker that chooses to shoot a short film in Kerry a further indication of this investment in film in the region.
The magnificent work provided by the Kerry ETB Training Centre which has become the foundation for the long and successful careers of the creative talent being produced in Kerry, is yet another factor in the region's success within the sector.
The healthy appetite and support for film within the viewing public throughout the county is also evident through the success of three independent cinemas in Killarney, Waterville and Listowel as well as the Omniplex in Tralee enjoying huge audiences on a regular basis.
What is clear to all, is that the monumental success of film in Kerry currently runs a lot deeper than the influential attention that a iconic franchise like Star Wars can attract and it is the passion, talent and unmistakable scenic beauty of this county that will insure that this golden era of film in the county continues for many years to come.

A Year of Movie Review in Traleetoday.ie - The Good, The Bad and the Ugly

This week marked the a year of McCann at the Movies featuring in popular local portal www.traleetoday.ie and what a year of film it has been! I've seen both Oscar and Razzie Winners, delightful family films, horror films that have been responsible for more than a few sleepless nights, some exceptional drama and some overwhelming blockbusters throughout the last twelve months.
Starting with Get Out last April, I've had great fun previewing and recording my views on what mainly has been an entertaining and solid year "at the Movies". Thanks to Dermot Crean for the opportunity to subject my ramblings to the Tralee masses and I hope readers have enjoyed reading my reviews as much as I have enjoyed writing them.
Here are a selection of a few of the good, the bad and the ugly amongst the vast amount of film consumed over the last year!

The Good:
Thanks to the brilliance of Jordan Peele, my column got of to a great start with possibly my favourite film of the year in Get Out, a game changing horror film that went on the deserved critical and commercial acclaim.
Read my full review here.

By a long way, the film that generated most traction on traleetoday.ie, Paddington 2 was the best family film of 2017 and hugely popular among all ages. A career resurrection for Hugh Grant and a wonderful story led to huge success in the box office it was hugely popular amongst local cinema goers.
Read my full review here.

One of the newest reviews written, the John Krasinski directed horror/thriller A Quiet Place had me reeling for days afterwards and it says a lot about the quality of horror film being produced currently that this is the second horror entry in the "good" column even though the genre is not one that I would regularly seek out!
Read my full review of the excellent feature here.



Honourable mentions also go to: Dunkirk, Cardboard Gangsters, Wind River, Detroit and All the Money in the World.

The Bad:

A self indulgent missed opportunity is how Murder on the Orient Express will forever be remembered by yours truly as Kenneth Brannagh failed to capitalise on a strong cast and big budget in a film that overwhelmingly disappoints.
Read my full review here

Dreary tiresome senses attacking blockbuster The Mummy starring Tom Cruise was the perfect example of the reboot that  nobody wanted and for good reason. Weak writing and some shocking CGI combine to make this one of last years worst!
Read my full review here.




The Ugly:

The worst film of my year in reviews by far, The Dark Tower is a jumbled, over ambitious mess with Matthew McConaughey in full on panto villain form with the only crumb of comfort coming in a performance by Idris Elba that was far more worthy of a film so bad. A bona fide turkey if ever there was one.
Read my "glowing" review here

Review: Loveless - A grim masterpiece by a fascinating director

In Loveless, director Andrey Zvyaginstev's follow up to Golden Globe winning Leviathan, Zhenya and Boris are going through a vicious divorce marked by resentment and hatred. Already embarking on new lives, each with a new partner, they are impatient to start again at the detriment of the welfare of  their 12-year-old son Alyosha. Until, after witnessing one of their fights, Alyosha disappears.
Shot in Moscow, with international support after the Russian government disapproved of Zvyagintsev's 2014 film Leviathan, Loveless doubles up quite admirably as a both social commentary modern life in Putin's Russia as well as an engrossing family drama.
Painting modern Russia in a somewhat bleak form with the cinematography, score and indeed performances encapsulating the grim, harsh reality of the situation enfolding before the audiences eyes. As tough a watch as this feature can be (Singin in the Rain it is not!) it is ultimately compelling viewing with Zvyaginstev creating a modern masterpiece from such sombre raw materials.
Whereas, modern day Russia is not depicted as anything overly joyous it's the human nature critique that is at the forefront of this compelling film as it shows us that not only can tragedy bring humans together but invariably tear them apart.
Winner of the Jury Prize at Cannes 2017 and nominated for Best Foreign Film at this years Academy Awards Loveless is a film that will undoubtedly require patience at times such are the cold hearted themes running throughout but it's haunting intensity and multi layered elements insure that this film is one that will cling to it's audience long after the end credits roll.
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Tralee Omniplex Tuesday Treat - What movie deserves your €6 this week?

Just two new releases for viewers to choose from for this weeks Tuesday Treat at Tralee Omniplex. A pleasant matinee type drama and strongly cast romantic drama are what's on offer. With the lagerer than life Avengers:Infinity War looming and lots of quality programming still available there is lots on offer at Tralee Omniplex this week with all shows today just €6!

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society
Unusual name aside this drama set in the aftermath of World War II based on the novel by Anne Barrows and directed by Mike Newell may not be for everyone but for fans of period pieces such as this, it certainly ticks all the boxes.

The Leisure Seekers
This predictable paint by numbers drama from director Paolo Virzi has been panned by critics as it's weak script and premise fails to make the most of what is an incredibly talented cast in Donald Sutherland and Helen Mirren at it's disposal!

This week's Top Movies on the Telly

American Gangster - (ITV 4 Tuesday 23rd April 23:30)
Gritty throwback to the gangster films of old, this Ridley Scott directed feature succeeds largely due to an excellent cast including Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe on top of their game.
Strongly recommended!

Prisoners - (Film Four Thursday 25th April 21:00)
Powerful and emotionally draining thriller that alerted the mass movie going public  of the talent that was Denis Villeneuve, this hypnotic thriller also benefits from a world class cast which includes Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal and Paul Dano.
Rivetting!

Little Miss Sunshine - (RTE One Friday 19th April 23:55)
An incredibly sharp script coupled with some incredible performances from an all star cast including Steve Carrell,Toni Collette and Oscar winning Alan Arkin makes this Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris directed feature an indie classic and one that can be enjoyed time and time again.

Review - Michael Inside - Compelling social prison drama that leaves a lasting impression!

Written and directed by Frank Berry, Michael Inside tells the story of  Michael McCrea, (played by Dafhyd Flynn)  an impressionable eighteen-year-old who lives with his grandfather Francis (Lalor Roddy) in a Dublin housing estate, where he is caught holding a bag of drugs for his friend's brother, and sentenced to three months in prison. The film, which was researched and workshopped with former prisoners from the Irish Prison Service's Pathways Programme, is a vivid expression of many real-life experiences and takes a realistic look at the circumstances that lead to Michael's conviction, his time in prison, and how prison affects his thinking, behaviour and ultimately his future.
With the strong commercial and critical success of films such as Cardboard Gangsters and Maze over the last twelve months, the prison drama/thriller is a genre well and truly conquered by Irish film makers. What sets Michael Inside aside from the rest however, is that Frank Berry has created a compelling and insightful piece of film without losing any of the trademarks of the sterotypical prison drama.
Documentary type reality combines perfectly with the tension and emotionally heartwrenching scenes created throughout. As much as this film will grip and hold the audiences attention thanks primarily to Berrys direction and two extraordinary performances from Lalor Roddy and Dafhyd Flynn, this is predominantly a film that deals with the social problems that exist within the prison system in this country and one that gets it's strong message across in the most apt manner avoiding schmaltzy drama and instead armed with a tension and emotional drama that resonates for days after viewing. A social lesson as much as wonderful piece of film, this feature would sit as comfortably in the classroom as well as the cinema theatre.
A well merited IFTA for Best Irish Feature , as well as a highly successful run in the film festival circuit, with the Dingle International Film Festival screening it in March, Michael Inside is a truly compelling and important film that unquestionably deserves all the critical and commercial acclaim that will surely comes it's way.
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What Movies to watch this weekend?

In the Cinema:

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
Hands down winner of the most unusual film name of the year so far this Mike Newell directed feature has also been earning solid initial reviews as this typical British heartwarming and charming film seems to hit it's mark admirably!




Streaming: 

Midnight Run (Netflix)
Martin Brest's classic road movie works extremely well thanks to the undeniable antagonistic chemistry between Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin. Simply, one of the best comic road movies you will see and worthy of repeated viewing. Classic!




On Telly

The Gift (RTE Two Saturday 21st April 00:10)
Suspense film which see a change of role for Jason Bateman, this tense thriller will keep it's viewer guessing and twitching uncomfortably in their seat as twist upon unexpected twist unfold in one of the sleeper hits of 2015. Gripping!

5 movies to watch on Netflix before they expire this month!

Everyone is well aware of the great new releases available on Netflix at the start of every month but what viewers tend to forget, that,as a new bunch of fresh movies and TV shows make their way onto the Netflix catalogue for our enjoyment, a host of other titles have to make way! Suddenly that TV series we were almost finished watching or that movie that we never got around to seeing have disappeared out of sight leaving feelings of frustration and regret. How do we counter act this? Firstly, it's always wise to keep account of titles that are expiring every month to avoid repeat let downs. These lists are readily available from such websites as Vodzilla  and keep streaming audiences well informed of what is coming and going on online streaming platforms. You can also regularly check this blog or my facebook page for updates on the best of what is coming and going on Netflix.
With that in mind, I have made a list of 5 titles that are expiring very soon and are worth catching before Netflix unceremoniously dumps them for newer features.

Here are my 5 movie picks to catch before they expire:

5. A Bronx Tale (expires 22nd April)
Directed and starring Robert De Niro this drama benefits from Chazz Palminteri's solid script, some solid performances and a gallant effort from director De Niro on his debut behind the camera. Catch it before it disappears!

4.The Spy Who Came in from the Cold (expires 21st April)
A near perfect Cold war espionage thriller based on the John Le Carre novel takes it leave from Netflix after nearly three years on their catalogue. Richard Burton and the late Cyril Cusack are part of a highly talented cast in this Martin Ritt directed feature that compels it's viewer throughout it's ninety minutes plus running time.

3. The Shawshank Redemption (expires 22nd April)
One last chance to see everyone's favourite movie. The dulcet tones of Morgan Freeman tell the tale of wrongly convicted Andy Dufresne and his attempt to escape Shawshank prison. A movie that has aged well and well worth another look if it's been

2. The Martian (expires 24th April)
Ridley Scott directed sci-fi film that is clever, thrilling and at times amusing thanks to a faithful dedication to the source material and a remarkable performance from Matt Damon, this is a movie that simply has to be seen before it disappears into space after just 6 short months on Netflix!

1. Spotlight (expires 28th April)
Academy Award Best Picture Winner of 2015, an all star ensemble gather to tell the riveting true story of the Pulitzer Prize-winning Boston Globe investigation that would  rock the city and cause a crisis in the Catholic Church. Written and directed by Tom McCarthy this film was one of 2015's best!

Kerry County Council and Arts Council Ireland to award €15,000 Bursary to boost film making in Kerry

Filmmaking in Kerry is set to receive another timely  boost with the recent announcement of a new short film bursary by Kerry County Council and The Arts Council.
According to the local authority's website The Film Bursary Award aims to foster talent, creativity and activity in filmmaking in County Kerry. Kerry County Council and The Arts Council are looking for filmmakers with experience in the field, who are working in the short drama genre. Proposals and applications are sought from film makers who have a script that has been developed, seen by a Director and has had input from a Producer. The Film Bursary Award is for a short drama film of 10-12 minute duration. The Award is in the form of a grant and is set at €15,000 for 2018."
In a county that is on the crest of a wave currently within the film industry, this is a great boost to both promote the county as a location and perhaps aid the emerging local film making talent within the county.
A very informative workshop took place on April 12th with presentations from various highly experienced and influential figures within the industry informing film makers present of the steps needed and obstacles encountered on the way to making that allusive short film and one that would be deemed worthy of the generous bursary.
Former director a Filmbase Alan Fitzpatrick, location scout Conor O'Carroll, Artistic Director with the Kerry Film Festival Meadhbh McGrath and Senior Exectutive Engineer with Kerry County Council, Frank Hartnett all offered their expertise and advice to all film makers looking to make an application for Film Bursary of €15,000.

Applications to the Bursary can be made online and all details can be found on https://form.jotformeu.com/KerryCoArts/film-bursary-award-kerry-2018 and the closing date for receipt of applications is 1pm on Friday 27th April 2018.

Tralee Omniplex Tuesday Treat - What movie deserves your €6 this week?

There are four new releases for to choose from for this weeks Tuesday Treat at Tralee Omniplex. An IFTA award winning Irish feature film, coming of age teenage drama, a big blockbuster video game adaptation and another horror film. Not quite the quality of last weeks releases but still plenty of quality programming available at Tralee Omniplex this week with all shows today just €6!

Michael Inside
IFTA winning feature written and directed by Frank Berry that has had a very successful run on the film festival circuit and now comes to our Omniplex screens! A social prison drama that leaves a lasting effect this compelling film is well worthy of the many plaudits it has received so far and is well worth catching.

Love, Simon
This coming of age drama directed by Greg Berlanti has been earning favourable reviews among and with more than a passing resemblance to a John Hughes film is surely bound for popularity with teenage audiences.

Rampage
Another mindless big budget feature based on a video game to add to the many that have unsuccessfully gone before it. Even the charm of Dwayne Johnson could not save this mess from the critics wrath. May not be the best pick from this week's new releases!

Truth or Dare
A clever marketing campaign can't paper over the cracks over what is basically a paint by numbers horror flick. Fans of the genre would be better advised to check out A Quiet Place or Ghost Stories from last weeks new releases for some real shocks!