Rise of the Planet of the Apes

I am a big fan of the original Planet of the Apes and just about tolerated the Tim Burton version, but this however is an exceptional addition to the franchise.  The story is very good with some great characters and Andy Serkis once again excels as an ape.  There are some moments that were a bit ridiculous but not enough to detract from my overall enjoyment of the film.  There was one moment I would have removed completely and that is where the immortal line, "Get your hands off of me you damn dirty ape!", was reused.  Whilst a nice nod to the original, it seemed completely out of context and was oddly funny when that's not really what the scene was going for.  Already looking forward to the next instalment, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes!

Film 355/365, Day 363/365 – Shrek

It's like an onion... it has layers.  On the top Shrek is a very funny film which attempts to break ever rule that has been established through centuries of fairy tales.  The story does actually have some sound moral guidance, but then it also very funny.  If you like animated films then you've probably already seen it, otherwise... go see it.

Synopsis:  An ogre discovers that a king has banished all mystical creatures to his swamp.  Desperate to return his home back to what it was he goes to see the king and agrees to complete a mission so that he will get his swamp back.  So, accompanied by a talking donkey, Shrek sets out to rescue princess Fiona from a tower guarded by a dragon.

Film 147/365, Day 158/365 – Orange County

Charming comedy and story of a guy finding his way only to discover he was never lost.  I’ll be the first to say that Orange County might not be for everyone.  Shaun’s dysfunctional family make for some very uncomfortable moments, but it is his stoner brother, played by Jack Black, that really steals the show.  A comedy with a good story at it’s heart.

Synopsis:  Shaun Brumder is a high achieving student and ever since he found a book half buried in the sand he has wanted to be an author.  So much so that he is willing to leave California behind in order to study under the author of the book that changed his life at Stanford.  Unfortunately the guidance counselor sends off the wrong transcript and he doesn’t get it.  But he’s not going to give up that easily.