Movie Magic Magazine November/December 2012 by ONSCREEN Magazine

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the film maga zine FEATURES > PREVIEWS > THE BEST IN LOCAL CINEMA

MOVIE MAGIC

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER 2012 www.merlincinemas.co.uk

The

a n une x p e c T e d j ou r ne y

Rise Of the guaRdians (3d)

the tWilight saga: bReaking daWn - paRt tWO

nativity 2: dangeR in the MangeR!

>> the film maga zine features > reviews > previews > the best in local cinema >

CONTENTS

merlin cinemas bringing

MOVIE MAGIC

you the magic of the movies

savoy Penzance 01736 363330 Royal St Ives 01736 796843

Regal Redruth 01209 216278

Roll cRedits craig may merlin cinemas’ marketing manager would like to thank… editor rebecca matthews ad sales craig may design www.morewhitespace.co.uk

contact craig may, savoy suite,

contributors matt brigden, Daniel buckley, cheyenne campbell, Jade cranwell, lee

causewayhead, penzance,

curtis, Gavin embley, amy evans, Jen evans, Kit Goodliffe, eleanor Goodwin, ian J.

tr18 2sn. tel 01736 331177

martin, thomas mitchell, amy ralfe, brody rossiter, Justin vingoe, chris wasey Publisher

email: admin@merlincinemas.co.uk

verve publishing Printed by Deltor print sponsors thanks to all our advertisers

8 do we have some treats in store for you this winter! those long, dark evenings and plummeting temperatures make the perfect excuse to indulge in a little escapism and revel in the wonderfully imagined worlds of the movie makers. it’s been a long time coming but the hobbit: an Unexpected Journey will finally be released in december. those chomping at the bit for more mesmerising action from middle-earth are sure to be enthralled by Peter Jackson’s first instalment in his epic adaptation of J.R.R.

tolkein’s novel. the oscar contenders come thick and fast this issue; from life of Pi, which promises a visual feast like no other, to the master, which sees Joaquin Phoenix and Philip seymour hoffman in stellar form, absorbing drama is guaranteed. We also have festive frolics aplenty in the shape of debbie isitt’s British comedy nativity 2: danger in the manger and the enchanting drama of When santa fell to earth - both perfect fodder for a christmas holiday trip to the flicks. Rebecca

www.merlincinemas.co.uk

gReat exPectations

INDEX

the Phoenix Falmouth 01326 313072

new carlton Okehampton 01837 658586 embassy Ilfracombe 01271 862323 tivoli Tiverton 01884 255554

central Torquay 01803 380001

the studio Coleford 01594 833331

>> >

to advertise in this magazine

flora Helston 01326 569977

locally.................................................. 04 merlin’s winter wonderland................. 06 alex cross / argo ................................. 09 celeste and Jesse forever .................. 09 Feature: the hobbit: an ......................... unexpected Journey (3D) .................... 10 end of watch ...................................... 12 for a Good time call .......................... 12 Gambit / Great expectations ............... 13 Jack reacher / life of pi (3D) ............. 14 love bite .............................................. 15 the man with the iron fists................ 15 film Directory .......................................16 the master ........................................... 18 nativity 2: Danger in the manger ........ 18 the odd life of timothy Green .......... 19 the oranges ........................................ 19 parental Guidance / people like us.... 20 rise of the Guardians (3D) ................. 21 secret of the wings (3D) .................... 21 silver linings playbook ....................... 22 seven psychopaths ............................. 22 trouble with the curve ....................... 23 the twilight saga: ................................... breaking Dawn - part two ................... 23 up there .............................................. 24 when santa fell to earth .................... 24 forthcoming films ............................... 26 merlin news ......................................... 28 and now for something ......................... A Little Different ................................... 30

life of Pi (3d)

© verve publishing. all rights reserved. nothing in this magazine may be published without written permission. while reasonable steps are taken to check the accuracy of the content within this publication, verve publishing cannot take responsibility for any mistakes or omissions or the views of our contributors or advertisers. all views expressed in movie magic are not necessarily those of verve publishing.

>> 04

locally

Locally Events, promotions and news from across Cornwall

PRinCESS PAviliOn

Falmouth 01326 211222 www.princesspavilion.co.uk

FOR THOSE ABOUT TO ROCK Friday 7 december, tickets £17.50

8 Livewire are the AC/DC show with a difference. Both the Bon

Scott and Brian Johnson eras of the band are included – with

two very individual singers in the same explosive performance. The band bring the full size ‘DC show to the fans – complete

with the cannons, the walkways, the backdrops and the drapes. Lending support, The ZZ Tops are the unique tribute to Texas’ best-known boogie band; prepare for an entertaining and authentic show featuring a host of favourite hits.

1 november – simon day, 3 november – crowns, 4 november – sandi thom, 7 november – born in the usa, 9 november – easy star all-stars, 10 november – nighon maiden & mentallica, 16 november – neville staple band, 17 november – Gong, 28 november – variety show, 29 november – cambiata showcase, 1 december – and Finally phil collins, 7 december – For those about to rock, 16 december – salvation army carol service

HAll FOR CORnwAll

truro 01872 262466 www.hallForcornwall.co.uk

AlADDin

Friday 14 december – sunday 6 January tickets: oFF peak £13 (rv) to £21.50 peak £13 (rv) to £23.50

8 Welcome to the magical and wonderful world of Aladdin, where nothing is as it seems. Steeped in magic, full of wonder and packed with surprises, this story is perfect for all the family to enjoy and treasure. Join Aladdin as he meets a genie from a Magic Lamp, fights for the love of the Princess and rides a magic flying carpet. Will Aladdin make his fortune, will he be allowed to marry the Princess and will the genie ever be free from his lamp? Find out this Christmas at Hall for Cornwall. Marvellously mad, this Christmas cracker will have your family in stitches. 1 november – Freddy kempf, 2 november – the manfreds, 3 november – sing-a-long-a rocky horror picture show, 5 november – the vagina monologues, 6 november – 10cc live in concert, 8-9 november – Jasmin vardimon, 8 november – Gigspanner, 10 november – Greg davies, 1217 november – radio times the musical, 19-24 november – moscow city ballet, 25 november – royal marines band charity concert, 26-27 november – that’ll be the day, 28 november – the lady boys of bangkok, 29 november – parley of instruments, 30 november – Frank turner, 1 december – carols by candlelight, 4 december – a night of romantic opera, 5 december – slade & sweet, 6-7 december – port isaac Fisherman’s Friends, 6 december – tom cary, 14 december – 6 January – aladdin

>> 06

merlin news

NOvember > DeCember

Merlin Cinemas bringing you the magic of the movies Savoy Penzance 01736 363330 / Royal St Ives 01736 796843 / Regal Redruth 01209 216278 Flora Helston 01326 569977 / The Phoenix Falmouth 01326 313072 New Carlton Okehampton 01837 658586 / Embassy Ilfracombe 01271 862323 Tivoli Tiverton 01884 255554 / Central Torquay 01803 380001 / The Studio Coleford 01594 833331

Merlin’s Winter Wonderland Christmas Lunch Club Get into the festive spirit this December and come along to a Christmas movie & meal Lunch Club Special at either the regal, redruth on Wednesday 19th December or Phoenix, Falmouth on Thursday 13th December. enjoy a 2 course festive lunch, and a screening of a Christmas Classic all for the great value price of £7.99! Call the Phoenix on 01326 313072 or Regal on 01209 216278 to find out more or to reserve a table.

Perfect Present for Movie Fans If youʼre in need of something a little different to fill up those stockings this Christmas then why not purchase a merlin Cinemaʼs Gift Voucher. They can be used at any of our sites on any of our products and services. enjoy a drink or meal from one of our bar and restaurants, a ticket for a film, some tasty treats or even become a movie magic member with us and save money all year round. Gift vouchers are available from your local cinema box office or by visiting www.merlincinemas.co.uk

There are some great films to choose from including The Twilight Saga: breaking Dawn Part 2, Nativity 2: Danger in the manger!, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Skyfall and many many more. If none of these take your fancy why not choose your favourite Christmas or Classic movie to really get you in the festive spirit (subject to a surcharge and availability). To make your party extra special there is even the chance to have a private screening exclusively for your group! To find out more information or to Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger! book call our office on 01736 331177, alternatively click the Events and Promotions tab on our website at www.merlincinemas.co.uk

Party with Merlin this Christmas Looking for some inspiration to make your Christmas Party one to remember? Then why not take advantage of our Christmas movie & Party Specials. We have some great deals to choose from this year. Regal Cinema - Three Course Festive Menu and a Film - £19.95 per person Phoenix Cinema - Luxury Festive Buffet and a Film - £14.00 per person Savoy Cinema - Luxury Festive Buffet and a Film - £12.00 per person

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Skyfall

LIVE MUSIC Thursday 1 November

SIMON DAY

Best known for his hilarious characters in The Fast Show Saturday 3 November

CROWNS

Traditional folk meets punk-pop band from Launceston Sunday 4 November

SANDI THOM

I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (with flowers in my hair) Wednesday 7 November

BORN IN THE USA American rock musical

Friday 9 November

EASY STAR ALL-STARS Easy Star’s Thrillah Saturday 10 November

NIGHON MAIDEN & MENTALLICA Two hardcore tributes in one night Friday 16 November

NEVILLE STaPLES bAND Best known as a singer, toaster and composer with The Specials Saturday 1 December

AND fINALLY PHIL COLLINS A taster of what’s coming up at HfC...

The Both Sides Tour of 1994 Friday 7 December

Radio Times The Musical

Featuring Livewire AC/DC and the ZZ Tops

Mon 12 to Sat 17 November Starring Gary Wilmot and Sara Crowe

Moscow City Ballet

Mon 19 to Sat 24 November Romeo & Juliet / The Nutcracker

The Ladyboys of Bangkok

Wed 28 November Comedy, cabaret and a carnival beat

That’ll Be The Day

Mon 26 & Tue 27 November The Cult rock ‘n’ roll show returns

Slade and Sweet Wed 5 December

A double bill from the 70s rock gods

fOR THOSE aBOUT TO ROCK

Blues Brothers UK

Tue 22 January The best loved songs from the movie

Brendan Cole

Licence to Thrill Fri 25 & Sat 26 January The Strictly Come Dancing Star

Yes, Prime Minister

Tues 19 to Sat 23 February From the original writers of the classic tv series

9 to 5 The Musical

Mon 11 to Sat 16 March A brand spankin’ new musical by Dolly Parton

Hall for Cornwall, Lemon Quay, Truro, TR1 2LL The Hall for Cornwall Trust is a charity promoting the arts & education

PLUS: Book your Christmas meal in the Garden Room Bar & Bistro... watch out for our 80s & 90s revival nights, combining Christmas food and drink with top entertainment. Call main box office number to reserve and watch local press for updates on acts.

PRINCESS PAVILION MELVILL ROAD, FALMOUTH TR11 4AR

Tickets + Full Details - See Website

www.princesspavilion.co.uk

+ Tickets from Box Office 01326 211222 (9am-1pm) + Hall For Cornwall + seetickets.com

The Big Picture

Zach Thomas, a Truro College Media Extended Diploma student, looks back at this summer’s blockbuster movies. The summer blockbuster season has been and gone now and the

‘Avengers Assemble’ was the ﬁrst summer blockbuster to hit our screens

question is: was it a good summer or not for Hollywood ? In my

this summer and in its opening weekend it made $207,438,708 (USA)

opinion, when I look at the opening weekend of many of this summer’s

which almost matched the budget of $220,000,000. This is just the

blockbusters: ‘Avengers Assemble’, ‘Prometheus’ and ‘The Dark

opening weekend in America and it made more and more every week.

Knight Rises’ , they have really put the meaning back into ‘blockbuster‘

This is what a blockbuster should be because millions of people have

as millions of people around the world came out and watched these

gone to see the ﬁlm and then re-seen it because they enjoyed it so

amazing ﬁlms.

much. With a rating of 12A, the producers could get a wider audience

Most people do not realise what the term ‘summer blockbuster’ means and use it as a generic term for any high budget ﬁlm Hollywood movie; but blockbusters are much more. The original blockbuster was ‘Jaws’

to see the ﬁlm and that in turn generated an even wider audience and encouraged even more people to leave their homes and their computers and DVD players to go and see it.

which was released in 1975. Up until then major Hollywood ﬁlms were

The other big blockbuster of the summer was ‘The Dark Knight

ﬁrst released in America into big city ‘marquee’ cinemas – the big three

Rises’ which was a huge success box ofﬁce wise with it taking just

to ﬁve thousand seaters – for anything up to six weeks before gradually

over $1 billion worldwide by the end of August. The Dark Knight’s

moving out into the suburbs and then after about another two months

opening weekend box ofﬁce take was impacted by the shooting in

ﬁnally arriving in the rural areas. When ‘Jaws’ was released Universal

a Colorado cinema, but after the public’s subsequent reluctance to

knew that this was a summer story that would beneﬁt by being seen

attend screenings audiences soon returned to the cinemas. This true

during the high summer. Universal made over four hundred prints so

blockbuster has the ability to ride out negative publicity and generate

that more people could see the ﬁlm at the same time. The increase in

huge audiences.

marketing spend – millions spent on television advertising; the original book re-published with a movie tie-in cover and stores ﬁlled with toy sharks, shark costumes, beach towels, etc, while the cast, producers, writer and director, Steven Spielberg, appeared on any and every chat show that would have them – meant that people lined up for hours outside cinemas and then when they left the cinema they went straight to the back of the queue which looped around the block to watch it all over again. ‘Jaws’ earned over $120 million during its ﬁrst summer, and so ‘the summer blockbuster’ was born.

The other film what I would class as an ‘almost’ blockbuster is ‘Ted’. ‘Ted’ is the first film by ‘Family Guy’ and ‘American Dad’ creator Seth Macfarlane and is also his directorial debut. Even though most critics would not class this film as a blockbuster, with an opening weekend $54,415,205, ‘Ted’ has so far earned back five times its budget while ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ has returned only four times its budget. This year has been a great year for blockbuster audiences, and all I can say is that Hollywood is going to have to up its game for 2013 because this year is going to be a hard year to beat.

Truro and Penwith College... Your story in the making www.truro-penwith.ac.uk

Truro: 01872 267000 Truro College, College Road, Truro TR1 3XX Penwith: 01736 335000 Penwith College, St. Clare Street, Penzance TR18 2SA E-mail: enquiry@truro-penwith.ac.uk

the latest films coming to your local cinema use the icons as your guide to film content

>> WHAT’S ON fantasy crime mind-bending you’re adventure nicked

mUsic singing and notes

family keep the kids happy

scary reach for the cushion

sci-fi space and robots

violent blood and guts galore

comedy a laugh a minute

romantic slushy love and kissing

action more thrills than Rambo

drama emotion and excitement

ALEX CROSS FiLm info FiLm credits

8 Following Kiss the Girls and Along Came a Spider, this is the third big screen adaptation of James Patterson’s long-running crime thriller novels. Rebooting the franchise, Tyler Perry replaces Morgan Freeman as the eponymous detective, here facing serial killer ‘The Butcher’ (Fox), a highly trained military operative who revels in causing his victims agonising pain. Having outwitted the police for years, The Butcher recognises a worthy adversary, and responds by murdering Cross’s wife right in front of him. Broken and alone, revenge becomes an obsession. But, as Cross is outwitted at every turn, more desperate measures must be taken. chris Wasey

director Rob Cohen starring Tyler Perry, Matthew Fox,

Rachel Nichols release date 30 November CONTENT icons

ARGO FiLm info FiLm credits

8 Ben Affleck’s Argo portrays an undertaking of equally insurmountable odds, as a group of CIA operatives strive to rescue six US embassy workers from a late ‘70s Iran gripped by violent revolution. Under the guise of a Canadian film crew scouting locations for a sci-fi flick, the team infiltrate Tehran and initiate one of the most audacious escape plans. Director and leading man Affleck’s Hollywood career is one of the most chequered in history, from gossip-rag pin-up to powerhouse director. Following two tightly wound action thrillers (Gone Baby Gone, The Town), his time spent behind the camera has proved fruitful - the recounting of Argo’s truelife story promises to prove no exception. Brody rossiter

director Ben Affleck

starring Ben Affleck, Bryan Cranston, John Goodman

release date 7 November CONTENT icons

CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER FiLm info FiLm credits

8 Celeste and Jesse’s wedding cake said ‘forever’, but forever was only six years. Co-written by star Rashida Jones, with Andy Samberg as Jesse, this rom-com promises to stretch the genre with its painful honesty. Despite separation and return to the dating world, their bond isn’t so shakeable, and a denial and refusal to lose each other’s best friend takes root. She’s a Type-A go-getter and he’s a slacking artist, so Celeste finds herself craving a more driven partner. That is, until Jesse meets someone else, and reality hits. Expect a powerful performance from Jones and a refreshing one from Samberg. cheyenne campbell

director Lee

Toland Krieger

starring Rashida Jones, Andy Samberg, Elijah Wood

release date 7 December CONTENT icons

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feature

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

BACK IN THE HOBBIT

>> NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

Middle-earth beckons once more. As viewers wait with bated breath for the long-anticipated release of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Brody Rossiter explores the fantastical realms of the Tolkien phenomenon

n 21st September 1937 J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit was published to universal and rapturous fanfare from critics and fantasy-loving bookworms alike. Initially adapted from the bedside fairytales the author recited to his children, The Hobbit would go on to become one of the most enduring and widely loved works of fiction of all time. Tolkien’s first excursion into the realm of his own creation, Middleearth, introduced readers to a mystical land entrenched in legend yet also exhibiting a painstakingly constructed sense of reality and historical depth. He drew intricate maps of stunning regions whilst establishing timelines in which races flourished through golden ages of prosperity only to descend into the ravages of war. The roots of family trees reached deep into the earth as sons and daughters were embittered by their forefathers’ feuds and strengthened by inherited alliances. He built towering cities from their foundations up, whilst crafting complex languages, religions and cultural traits to accompany the many races inhabiting the kingdoms of his imagination. Now, upon its 75th anniversary, Tolkien’s debut novel will no longer solely reside upon the page but come to life on cinema screens with a longawaited trilogy of films – revealing to cinemagoers the origins of one of the greatest stories ever told. In 2001 Peter Jackson achieved the seemingly impossible; directing the first instalment of Tolkien’s widely considered ‘unfilmable’ Lord of The Rings Trilogy. Two sequels, a staggering 17 Academy Awards (The Return

of the King won all eleven Oscars for which it was nominated) and billions of dollars in worldwide box office takings later, it became clear that ‘unfilmable’ wasn’t a word in the vocabulary of the ingenious Jackson and his formidable cast and crew. Despite Pan’s Labyrinth director Guillermo Del Toro initially inhabiting the role of director for The Hobbit, his transition from directorial duties to a screenwriting role due to lengthy production delays essentially re-opened the door for Jackson to reignite his passion for personifying Tolkien’s work. Set 60 years prior to the events of The Fellowship of the Ring, An Unexpected Journey follows Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) as he accompanies a rag-tag band of dwarfs upon their quest to liberate the Dwarven realm of Erebor from fearsome dragon, Smaug. Led by the intrepid warrior Thorin Oakenshield, the group must pass through the most dangerous reaches of Middle-earth, negotiating perilous mountains, troll-ridden wilds and sorcerers’ strongholds. Just when the adversity facing Bilbo seemingly couldn’t grow any greater he is separated from his Dwarf entourage inside the depths of the goblin tunnels, where he encounters the devilish Gollum and The One Ring for the first time. Andy Serkis reprises his voiceacting and motion-capture roles as the corrupted hobbit, whose obsession with his ‘precious’ has led to the downfall of many unsuspecting travellers. Despite being a prequel to the LOTR trilogy, Jackson’s distinctly British cast – including Richard Armitage and Benedict Cumberbatch – will be accompanied by many familiar and beloved characters. Amongst others, Frodo, Legolas

and Ian McKellen’s unmistakeable Gandalf the Grey will all make an appearance, neatly tying The Hobbit to Jackson’s previous films and offering a wealth of backstory for fans to piece together. Though fierce clashes will undoubtedly occur, audiences should expect a more playful and innocent tone from The Hobbit as opposed to The Lord of The Rings’ wartorn crusade into the heart of Mordor. Tolkien’s work was initially recognised as a children’s tale, so expect his company of dwarfs to not only vanquish enemies with the pointy end of their swords but an equally sharp wit. Aesthetically Jackson has once again ensured his interpretation of Tolkien’s environments and characters – from opulent Elven vistas to the wealth of facial hair adorning the thirteen dwarves – remains faithful to the smallest detail by reuniting with Weta Workshop. The New Zealand-based special effects company responsible for much of LOTR’s visual

FEATURE

splendour and magnificent set pieces such as The Two Towers’ ‘Battle of Helm’s Deep’ will undoubtedly prove an irreplaceable influence. Today fantasy storytelling is commonplace across several genres. In the vein of Tolkien, George R. R. Martin’s Game of Thrones has made the jump from literary sensation to the most expensive television series to ever grace our screens. Video games offer players their own interactive experiences to explore and shape - last year’s Nordic influenced ‘Skyrim’ shipping over ten million copies within its first week of release. Could these wildly popular series have ever been conceived without the inspiration of Tolkien’s fiction? Or Jackson’s films paving the way forward and revealing what is truly possible? This Christmas, Middleearth will once again somehow squeeze its sprawling landscapes and enchanting characters onto cinema screens in both IMAX and digital 3D. Audiences will be gifted with an experience that even Santa couldn’t deliver as Tolkien and Jackson prove that when it comes to fantasy epics, there is one series to rule them all.

>> 12

WHAT’S ON

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

END OF WATCH

Film info Film credits

8 The writer-director who brought us Training Day and Dark Blue is back with another brutish story about the Los Angeles Police Department. Themes of corruption, racial tension and betrayal set within the hot, muggy urban jungle of LA comprise a familiar palette in the filmography of David Ayer. Jake Gyllenhaal (Officer Taylor) and Michael Pena (Officer Zavala) star as two young, fundamentally decent police officers. Neither is on the take or, indeed, two days from retirement, but both are hungry to advance their careers and, as such, bypass protocol in search of forging a name for themselves within the force. Their maverick attitude and disregard for procedure leads them to unwittingly confiscate a cache of money and firearms belonging to a notorious Mexican drugs cartel. They are marked for death and must somehow survive a danger that exceeds their rank. End of Watch promises much macho, buddy-cop oaths of brotherhood between the protagonists and Ayer’s trademark stylistics of jittery cinematography will draw audiences into the narrative and LA backdrop. Expect a visceral story about beat cops that is raw and violent.

Director David Ayer

Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Peña,

Anna Kendrick release date 23 November CONTENT icons

Gavin Embley

FOR A GOOD TimE CAll...

Film info Film credits

Director Jamie Travis Starring Ari Graynor, Lauren Miller, Justin Long

release date 2 November CONTENT icons

8 Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, For a Good Time, Call... follows Katie (Graynor) and Lauren (Miller), two incompatible roommates who realise how apparent their differences are when they end up sharing an apartment with one another. After disapproving of her roommate’s occupation as a phone sex operator, Lauren has no other choice than to join forces with Katie after she loses her job. Working as a team, the pair soon creates a highly lucrative phone sex business, which sees Lauren eventually join as a second operator. However just as things are looking up for the two, a betrayal threatens this new- found harmony. Filmed over 16 days with a budget of only $1.3 million, this low-budget film has gone on to receive high praise for its emotionally generous appeal. If there is one number you should call this month, For a Good Time, Call... is the one to dial. Thomas Mitchell

>> NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

GAmBIT

FIlm info FIlm credits

8 The Coen brothers are back. The boys responsible for some of cinema’s greatest feats (Fargo, No Country For Old Men) are the writers of this soon-tobe hit, starring the increasingly charismatic and risk-taking Colin Firth, the enviably evil Alan Rickman and the beautiful Cameron Diaz. Art curator Harry Dean (Firth) decides to exact revenge on his peculiar and abusive boss Lionel Shahbandar (Rickman), one of the world’s richest men who occasionally decides he wants to be naked when he’s at work. Harry persuades him to buy a fake Monet painting so that he can steal the real one; however, the way he’s gone about his plan means that he has to enlist the help of PJ Puznowski (Diaz), an eccentric and wildly unpredictable rodeo queen from Texas. She has to act as his gambit, but Harry ends up complicating things by becoming enamoured with her. This throws a rather large spanner in the works. Combining the subtle comic genius that the Coens put into everything they write with the guaranteed powerhouse performances of Gambit’s stars, this will be one of the high points of the cinematic year. Matt Brigden

Director Michael Hoffman Starring Colin Firth, Cameron Diaz, Alan Rickman

release date 21 November CONTENT icons

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

FIlm info FIlm credits

Director Mike Newell

Starring Jeremy Irvine,

Helena Bonham Carter, Jason Flemyng

release date 30 November CONTENT icons

8 Charles Dickens endured many meagre attempts in theatre, television and cinema to reconstruct the novel of a boy’s adventurous journey through adolescence. Relief came from Sir David Lean’s 1946 film, which managed to lightly tread in Dickens’s footsteps, deservedly winning two Academy Awards in the process. Mike Newell is the latest to tackle the twisting tale of the orphan Pip (played by War Horse star Jeremy Irvine) who, thanks to an unknown benefactor, is trained to become a gentleman in nineteenth century British society. Everyone suspects wealthy, eccentric Miss Havisham (matched to perfection to Helena Bonham Carter), though a mysterious meeting with escaped convict Magwitch (Fiennes) in a graveyard changes Pip’s life in unexpected ways. Even David Walliams pops up to turn on his comic charm as the mean and miserly Mr. Pumblechook. As part of Dickens’s 200-year birthday commemoration, this title truly does characterise the anticipation of the movie’s release. Can Newell extend his range even further from Four Weddings and a Funeral and playing with wizards at Hogwarts to stamp his mark on this immortal tale? Eleanor Goodwin

WHAT’S ON

>> 14

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

WHAT’S ON

JACK REACHER

Film info

Film credits

Director Christopher McQuarrie

Starring Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike, Richard Jenkins

release date 26 December ContEnt icons

8 Lee Child’s Jack Reacher has been entertaining thriller readers for over a decade, and now he is finally being brought to the big screen. Christopher McQuarrie, whose credentials include the awardwinning The Usual Suspects, adapts Jack Reacher for the cinema with Tom Cruise starring as the iconic loner investigator in pursuit of a deadly sniper. Adapted from the book One Shot, Jack Reacher sees the former hard-as-nails military officer called in to investigate the case of a trained army sniper accused of shooting five innocent victims. The prime suspect, James Barr (Sikora), claims he is innocent, however. Proceedings get more complicated when Barr demands Reacher’s services. What initially appeared to be a simple open and shut case soon reveals itself to have many more layers to it. The film promises hard-hitting action that is sure to have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish, with Tom Cruise playing one of his most intense roles to date. Rosamund Pike and Robert Duvall round out a stellar cast in this tense action thriller. Ian J. Martin

Film info

Film credits

Director Ang Lee

Starring Suraj Sharma,

Irrfan Khan, Adil Hussain release date 20 December ContEnt icons

liFE oF Pi (3D) 8 Life of Pi (3D) is the film adaption of the 2001 novel of the same name, written by Yann Martel. Sixteen-yearold Pi (played by newcomer Suraj Sharma) is the sole survivor of a shipwreck, leaving him adrift in the Pacific Ocean with only an orangutan, hyena, zebra and, last but by no means least, a Bengal tiger for company. Having bagged one of today’s finest contemporary directors, Ang Lee, a talented man with a string of hit films and Academy Awards behind him, Life of Pi is sure to be as much of a success on the silver screen as it was on paper. The film has an entirely international cast of relatively unknown actors, and Lee even cut the most recognisable star, Tobey Maguire, from the film at the last minute in favour of Rafe Spall. This has set itself up to be an astounding adventure film; with jaw-dropping set pieces, picturesque scenery and, with the talent of Ang Lee at the head of the project, Life of Pi is sure to be a massive hit. Jade Cranwell

>> NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

WHAT’S ON

LOVE BITE

FILM info

FILM credits

Director Andy De Emmony Starring Ed Speleers, Jessica Szohr, Timothy Spall

release date 9 November CONTENT icons

8 From the producers of The Mexican and Cruel Intentions, British horror comedy Love Bite takes us to the dead-end seaside town of Rainmouth, just as the summer holidays are about to kick in. Starring Timothy Spall (Harry Potter), Ed Speleers (Eragon), Jessica Szohr (Piranha 3D), and Skins’ star Luke Pasqualino, the film follows Jamie (Speleers) and his friends as they embark on a summer of earning money and partying. Desperate to get out of running his mother’s B&B, Jamie meets a beautiful, smart and sexy American traveller at a party and is instantly smitten. However soon after her arrival, strange things start to happen. Before long, two of the local teenagers go missing, and Jamie is warned that a werewolf is in town and preying solely on virgin flesh! As the locals are picked off one by one, and the boys realise they are all virgins, they fear the werewolf could target them at anytime. Eager to lose their virginity, Jamie and his friends set out to have sex, before they fall victim to the virgin-hungry werewolf. Thomas Mitchell

8 Kung Fu fanatic and Wu-Tang Clan co-founder RZA makes his big screen directing debut with The Man With The Iron Fists. The multi-talented entertainer stars alongside an impressive international cast that includes Russell Crowe and Lucy Liu. Set in nineteenth century China, the story chronicles a lone-wolf hero, assassins and warriors who have to unite in order to defeat a clan traitor that intends to destroy them all. Since arriving in the Jungle Village, the ominously named Blacksmith (RZA) has been made to make intricate destructive tools by the local tribal clans. When the war between the battling clans reaches a critical level, the Blacksmith channels an ancient power in order to transform himself into the ultimate human weapon. Fighting alongside warriors and assassins alike, he takes on the responsibility of saving the people. With a script co-written by Eli Roth, the film guarantees out-of-this-world martial arts action, with stylised blood and violence set to blow you away. With the former rap star at the helm, you can expect an arresting soundtrack to accompany proceedings. Ian J. Martin

FILM info FILM credits

Director RZA

THE MAN WITH THE IRON FISTS

Starring Russell Crowe, Cung Le, Lucy Liu

release date 7 December CONTENT icons

>> 16

FILM DIRECTORY

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

FILM DIRECTORY Please note: UK release dates are shown but may be subject to change

Starring Kevin James, Salma Hayek, Henry Winkler A high school biology teacher looks to become a successful mixedmartial arts fighter in an effort to raise money to prevent extracurricular activities from being axed at his cash- strapped school.

THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART TWO

LOVE BITE

GAMBIT

See page 15

PEOPLE LIKE US

 FOr A GOOD TiMe, CALL...

2 November

See page 9

Deborah Mailman, Jessica Mauboy It’s 1968, and four young, talented Australian Aboriginal girls learn about love, friendship and war when their all girl group The Sapphires entertain the US troops in Vietnam.

THE SAPPHIRES

9 November

FOR A GOOD TIME, CALL... See page 12

7 November

ARGO

Director Wayne Blair Starring Chris O’Dowd,

 ArGO

HERE COMES THE BOOM Director Frank Coraci

See page 20

16 November

THE MASTER See page 18

MENTAL

Director P.J. Hogan Starring Liev Schreiber, Toni Collette, Anthony LaPaglia A charismatic, crazy hothead transforms a family’s life when she becomes the nanny of five girls.

 GAMBiT

See page 23

UP THERE See page 24

21 November See page 13

SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK See page 22

23 November

END OF WATCH See page 12

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL (20TH ANNIVERSARY) Director Brian Henson Starring Michael Caine, Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire

>> NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

FILM DIRECTORY

SEE THEM ALL Not all films will open at your local cinema on the UK release date, but the majority of films will be shown as soon as prints become available and/or it can be scheduled in.

30 November

ALEX CROSS See page 9

GREAT EXPECTATIONS See page 13  NATiViTy 2: DANgeR iN The MANgeR!

RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (3D)

THE ORANGES See page 19

SEVEN PSYCHOPATHS See page 21

SO UNDERCOVER

TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE

Director Tom Vaughan Starring Alexis Knapp, Miley Cyrus, Autumn Reeser A tough, street-smart private eye is hired by the FBI to go undercover in a college sorority.

See page 18

7 December

WHEN SANTA FELL TO EARTH

SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED

See page 9

14 December

The Muppet characters tell their version of the classic tale of an old and bitter miser’s redemption on Christmas Eve.

NATIVITY 2: DANGER IN THE MANGER!

Director Colin Trevorrow Starring Aubrey Plaza, Jake Johnson, Karan Soni Three magazine employees head out on an assignment to interview a guy who placed a classified ad seeking a companion for time travel.

 gReAT exPeCTATioNS

See page 21

See page 23

CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER

See page 24

THE MAN WITH THE IRON FISTS

THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (3D)

THE ODD LIFE OF TIMOTHY GREEN

SECRET OF THE WINGS (3D)

See page 15

See page 19

See page 10-11

See page 22

 SeCReT of The WiNgS

20 December

LIFE OF PI (3D) See page 14

PITCH PERFECT

Director Jason Moore Starring Anna Kendrick, Brittany Snow, Rebel Wilson Beca, a freshman at Barden University, is cajoled into joining The Bellas, her school’s all- girls singing group. Injecting some much needed energy into their repertoire, The Bellas take on their male rivals in a campus competition. 26 December

JACK REACHER See page 14

28 December

PARENTAL GUIDANCE See page 20

>> 18

WHAT’S ON

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

THE MASTER

FIlM info FIlM credits

8 Paul Thomas Anderson doesn’t make films by the numbers. In fact, during a career spanning over 20 years the ambitious director has produced only six feature films, all of which now possess both cult status and a permanent spot amongst critical ‘best of’ lists. Following 2007’s breathtaking oil boom epic, There Will Be Blood, Anderson returns with The Master, a sprawling tale of one man’s physical and emotional recovery amidst the hidden sacrifice of a post-war land of hope and opportunity. In his first role since 2010’s infamous mockumentary I’m Still Here, Joaquin Phoenix stars as Freddie Quell, an ex-navy man befriended by luminary academic and leader of ‘The Cause’ Lancaster Dodd (Hoffman). As Freddie’s involvement with Dodd’s enigmatic group deepens, he begins to question the religious leader’s teachings, reopening wartime wounds and setting the troubled drifter on a collision course with the mentor who rescued him from the brink of collapse. Anderson’s sumptuous aesthetic and bold, mesmeric brand of melodrama will undoubtedly once again be present in this latest revelatory chapter of his celebrated American mythology. Brody Rossiter

Director Paul Thomas Anderson

Starring Philip Seymour

Hoffman, Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams

release date 16 November coNTENT icons

NATIVITY 2: DANGER IN THE MANGER!

FIlM info FIlM credits

8 Chilling weather, anxious present buying and this year a flying donkey...Christmas just would not be the same without seeing the latest seasonal release Nativity 2. Director-writer Debbie Isitt returns, on this occasion with David Tennant in tow to help manage the cast of children and the troublesome Marc Wootton. Once again, Isitt chooses improvisation to tell her story and the talents of the cast and crew. Even with no set script, it is clear that this film will be packed with festive laughs and joyful antics. Mr. Peterson (Tennant) is a desperate teacher trying to handle his heavily pregnant wife (Page) and supreme twin sibling (Tennant). Chaos ensues as his class enters a Christmas song contest. Along with Mr. Poppy (Wootton), they embark on a wild school trip through rural Wales, desperate to arrive at the competition’s castle location. Will they make it on time? Will Tennant’s rival brother succeed? Most of all, will the children be smiling merrily at the end? Well, what do you think? This movie predicts to deliver just what is desired: for adults an escape and for children a truly enchanting experience. Eleanor Goodwin

Director Debbie Isitt

Starring David Tennant,

Pam Ferris, Joanna Page release date 23 November coNTENT icons

>> NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

WHAT’S ON

THE ODD LIFE OF TIMOTHY GREEN

FILM info FILM credits

8 Upon receiving sad news from a fertility clinic, a childless couple - Cindy (Garner) and Jim Green (Edgerton) - write down their wishes for an infant, which they place into a box and bury in the garden. After a bizarre and miraculous midnight storm, the couple wake to discover a young child has emerged from the ground, and the remarkable Timothy Green will teach his shocked parents more than they could ever have imagined. This unique concept behind Disney’s latest computeranimated family-friendly film was created by American writer Ahmet Zappa. The film itself is a rarity and boasts magical originality that has been missing from Disney projects, who tend to leave their innovative creations to their sister studio Pixar. The Odd Life of Timothy Green looks to be a step in the right direction for the studio, returning to what originally brought them acclaim. The film is directed by Peter Hedges, whose previous works include What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, About a Boy and Dan in Real Life, and he’s certainly hedged his bets and stuck with what he does best: providing charming and heartfelt family-oriented entertainment.

Director Peter Hedges

Starring Jennifer Garner,

Joel Edgerton, CJ Adams release date 7 December cONTENT icons

Lee Curtis

THE ORANGES

FILM info FILM credits

8 It’s that time of year again. The time of year when romantic comedies come out of hibernation and appear on every cinema screen until the end of January. While this may not excite everyone, there are always one or two films that surprise even the most ardent rom-com hater. Julian Farino’s latest film could be that surprise. The film centres around two families living in Orange County in California. The Ostroffs and the Wallings are more or less inseparable. Or at least they were. During a rocky stage of their marriage, David Walling (Laurie) enters into an affair with the 24-year-old Ostroff daughter Nina (Meester). Chaos ensues as each character deals with the revelation in their own way. Where The Oranges excels is in its treatment of the subject matter. While the film is definitely a comedy and will have anyone watching it holding their sides, it also promises to leave people feeling moved. In essence, The Oranges promises to be the perfect romantic comedy for the festive season: full of laughs, and maybe a few tears too. Daniel Buckley

Director Julian Farino Starring Leighton

Meester, Hugh Laurie, Catherine Keener

release date 7 December cONTENT icons

>> 20

WHAT’S ON

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

PARENTAL GUIDANCE 8 Billy Crystal and Bette Midler star in Andy Fickman’s heart-warming, feel-good hit this Christmas. Parental Guidance is first and foremost about parenthood. Artie (Crystal) and Diane Decker (Midler) have been asked to look after their grandchildren while their mother leaves town for work; and, while Diane jumps at the chance, Artie does not seem so keen. After trying to look after them in the 21st century way in which the children have become accustomed, the elderly couple eventually resort to rather more old school methods. Predictably, this leads to a certain amount of shenanigans. But this film is more than a simple ‘fish out of water’ comedy; it goes deeper than that. Since Artie and Diane consider that they may have not been the best parents, they look on the experience as a second chance and stay long after their daughter returns. Between the three of them, old and new school parenting are mixed together to form a recipe with outrageous results. While the rain will undoubtedly be pouring this winter and chilling your bones, why not go and see a film that will warm your heart and, of course, make you laugh.

FILm info

FILm credits

Director Andy Fickman Starring Billy Crystal,

Bette Midler, Marisa Tomei release date 28 December CONTENT icons

Daniel Buckley

PEOPLE LIKE US

FILm info

FILm credits

Director Alex Kurtzman Starring Chris Pine, Elizabeth Banks, Michelle Pfeiffer

release date 9 November CONTENT icons

8 Written and directed by Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci, People Like Us is a moving story about life choices and family values, starring Chris Pine (Star Trek), Michelle Pfeiffer (Scarface), Elizabeth Banks (The Hunger Games) and Olivia Wilde (In Time). The film traces the story of a young salesman, Sam (Pine), whose latest deal falls through on the day his father suddenly dies. He reluctantly heads home to put his father’s estate in order and forge relations with his estranged family - and so begins a revealing journey into his father’s secret past. He is startled to discover he has a 30-year-old sister he never knew about, Frankie (Banks), whose son Josh (D’Addario) is the principal benefactor of his father’s will. Prepare for some incredible performances by Michelle Pfeiffer and Elizabeth Banks, and emotionally charged drama that will make you think about the true value of family and how the complexities of the past can resound in the future. Rediscover the meaning of family and cherish each other this Christmas time. Amy Evans

>> NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

WHAT’S ON

FIlm info

RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (3D)GREEN

8 Fans of animated adventures are set to receive their seasonal fix this autumn as DreamWorks releases Rise of the Guardians, an adaptation of William Joyce’s written works The Guardians of Childhood. Directed by relative newcomer Peter Ramsey, Rise of the Guardians has a promising cast: Chris Pine of Star Trek fame takes the lead as Jack Frost, the youthful and carefree spirit of winter who is recruited into a group of intrepid mythical beings set on protecting the children of the world. The group has their work cut out for them when the malevolent spirit Pitch, played by Jude Law, sets out to spread fear and darkness across the world. The titular group includes Santa Claus (Baldwin), the Easter Bunny (Jackman), the Tooth Fairy (Fisher) and the silent Sandman. Portraying these famous folklore characters in a new light as superheroes while furnishing them with unique powers, Rise of the Guardians looks to be an exciting new take on these classic characters. This action-packed fantasy is set to arrive in late November and could well make for an ideal festive season visit to the cinema. Kit Goodliffe

FIlm credits

Director Peter Ramsey

Starring Hugh Jackman, Alec Baldwin, Isla Fisher release date 30 November CONTENT icons

SECRET OF THE WINGS (3D)

FIlm info FIlm credits

8 This Christmas heralds the return of Tinker Bell and all her friends for the winter wonderland movie Secret of the Wings, which promises to be a must-see for all young girls out there. The fourth film in the series revolving around J.M. Barrie’s infamous fairy character, this latest fantastical instalment sees Tinker Bell (Whitman) befriending Periwinkle (Hale). Together, they embark on a journey into the mysterious winter woods to discover the secret of fairy wings. The all-star cast sees Lucy Liu, Jane Horrocks, Timothy Dalton and Angelica Huston lending their vocal talents. Perfect for a Christmas holiday trip to the flicks, the flitterific action can be enjoyed in eyepopping 3D, which is sure to keep young viewers on the edge of their seats from sparkling start to fabulous finish. With a brilliant soundtrack to boot, prepare for a tale of magical intrigue and friendship that girls everywhere will relate to. Amy Evans

Director Roberts

Gannaway, Peggy Holmes Starring Timothy Dalton, Lucy Hale, Megan Hilty

release date 14 December CONTENT icons

>> 22

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

WHAT’S ON

SEVEN PSYCHOPATHS

Film info

Film credits

Director Martin McDonagh Starring Colin Farrell, Woody Harrelson, Sam Rockwell

release date 7 December CONTENT icons

Film info

Film credits

Director David O. Russell Starring Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro

release date 21 November CONTENT icons

8 Martin McDonagh rose to fame when his stunning short Six Shooter won an Academy Award in 2005, but his true breakthrough came three years later with his triumphant debut feature In Bruges. The Irish filmmaker’s Tarantinoesque sharp writing, hyper-violence and killer dialogue were the successes behind his previous projects. His latest film, a crime-comedy caper that boasts an ensemble cast, is sure to continue the comparisons to the famed direction, but also looks to cement him as one of the most impressive emerging filmmakers. Seven Psychopaths follows a writer who is unable to complete his screenplay. In an attempt to inspire him, his two friends kidnap a notorious gangster’s beloved pet shih-tzu and the trio become entangled in Los Angeles’ dangerous and unpredictable criminal underworld. The film’s most enticing aspect is Colin Farrell reuniting with the director who moulded his finest performance. There’s also an impressive support cast, including Christopher Walken, Woody Harrelson and Sam Rockwell, who always thrives in a supporting role. From what’s emerged from its Toronto Film Festival screening, McDonagh’s second feature is a real treat. Lee Curtis

SilVER liNiNGS PlAYBOOK 8 After the success of his Academy Award winning film The Fighter, director- screenwriter David O. Russell makes a welcome return with an adaptation of Matthew Quick’s 2008 novel, Silver Linings Playbook. The film centres on former teacher, Pat Solitano (Cooper) who, after spending eight months in a mental institution, finds himself living back at home with his homemaker mother (Weaver) and obsessive American football fan father (de Niro). Determined to rebuild his life, Pat tries to remain positive with the hope of getting back with his wife (Bree) - despite the challenging circumstances of their separation and his parents telling him to move on. Enter kindred spirit, Tiffany (Lawrence), the sole neighbourhood resident capable of understanding Pat. Together they form a unique bond, helping each other to overcome their personal issues. Headlined by Bradley Cooper of the hit comedy The Hangover and Jennifer Lawrence of The Hunger Games, Silver Linings Playbook looks like it has Academy Award winner written all over it. More than your average romcom – this is the sort of film we wait all year to see. You’ll be mad to miss it! Justin Vingoe

>> NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

WHAT’S ON

TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE 8 Past his prime and facing mounting opposition from front-office staff, Atlanta Braves baseball scout Gus (Eastwood) is granted one last opportunity to recapture past glories and save his once illustrious career through signing the team’s next big-hitter. After a vote of no confidence, Gus’s daughter Mickey (Adams) is sent along for the ride as the team’s insurance policy, a decision against Amy’s better judgement and much to Gus’s dismay. Scouring North Carolina for talent, father and daughter are forced to face a series of uncomfortable truths from Mickey’s youth that threaten to not only derail both their careers but any hope of the pair making amends. In the wake of Brad Pitt’s profound and soulful baseball biopic, Moneyball, audiences were once again reminded just how compelling a sporting drama with all the right components can be. Eastwood’s aura of cinematic gravitas, accompanied by Adams’ and love interest Justin Timberlake’s charismatic performances and natural chemistry, will ensure that Trouble With the Curve continues this trend, knocking another moving, character-driven story out of the park. Brody Rossiter

FILm info

FILm credits

Director Robert Lorenz

Starring Clint Eastwood, Amy Adams,

John Goodman release date 30 November CONTENT icons

THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN - PART 2

FILm info FILm credits

8 The finale in the saga that brought vampires and werewolves storming back into the public consciousness is going out with a bang (or should that be ‘fang’?). Not only will we see Mrs. Edward Cullen flex her undead fingers for the first time, but the media frenzy around Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattison is sure to draw viewers eager to see what may be the turbulent real-life couple’s last shared screen time. Part 1 ended with the promise of Bella’s transformation after the dangerous birth of half-vampire child, Renesmee. Bella’s back with little time in which to grow accustomed to her altered appetites and cold body temperature (which now matches that of her new husband) before vampire hell breaks loose. The Volturi believe Renesmee’s powers will overtake their own, and the Cullens must gather together vampires from across the globe to help them win this final battle for their family’s survival. It may be the end of the fairytale romance that breathed life into the paranormal young adult genre, but at least we’ll finally get to see Bella fight for it with her own fangs. Cheyenne Campbell

Director Bill Condon

Starring Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner

release date 16 November CONTENT icons

>> 24

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

WHAT’S ON

UP THERE 8 Written and directed by Zam Salim, Up There is a dark comedy based on YouTube hit short film Laid Off. The film follows Martin (Gorman) whose job of welcoming recently deceased individuals into the afterlife leaves him feeling unsatisfied and alone. His dream of leaving purgatory and going ‘Up There’ is further postponed when he loses a new arrival. Paired with high-spirited Rash (Hamdouchi), he must find the lost soul before it is left to wander alone forever. Their mission leads them to a seaside village, which is inhabited by numerous unsavoury characters and a mysterious young woman named Liz (O’Flynn). Martin and Rash must put their differences aside to find the missing soul, discover the truth about Liz and reunite Rash with his brother. After this, will Martin finally get ‘Up There’? Having already gained critical acclaim by winning the Panavision Spirit Award for Best Independent Film at this year’s Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Up There looks set to win over new audiences with its mix of bleak humour and a fresh- faced cast. Jen Evans

FiLm info

FiLm credits

Director Zam Salim

Starring Warren Brown,

Burn Gorman, Jo Hartley release date 16 November cONTENT icons

WHEN SANTA FELL TO EARTH

FiLm info FiLm credits

8 When Santa Fell to Earth makes its way direct to UK cinemas this Christmas. Based on the novel of the same name by bestselling author Cornelia Funke, this festive picture takes audiences to a world full of magic and fantasy, sure to delight children and adults alike. With only two weeks left until Christmas, the last thing Ben and Charlotte expected was the arrival of Santa Niklas Goodfellow and his trailer. After plummeting down to earth during a thunderstorm, the young children forge a plan to help Goodfellow make sure the children see their dearest Christmas wishes come true. Directed by German director Oliver Dieckmann and dubbed for the English language, When Santa Fell to Earth promises to provide an alternative yet thrilling ride into the fantastical world of Santa Claus, which is sure to get everyone in the Christmas spirit! Thomas Mitchell

Director Oliver Dieckmann Starring Alexander

Scheer, Noah Kraus,

Mercedes Jadea Diaz release date 7 December cONTENT icons

NOW SELLING NATIONWIDE Riverside, Newham Road, Truro, Cornwall TR1 2DP

01872 271885

@Skinnersbrewery

/Skinners Brewery

www.skinnersbrewery.com

. . . what the Cornish drink!

>> 26

future films

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

Forthcoming Films JANUARY / FEBRUARY FILMS TO GET EXCITED ABOUT

Director Sacha Gervasi Starring Anthony Hopkins, Helen Mirren, Scarlett Johansson

25 January Director Kathryn Bigelow Starring Chris Pratt, Jessica Chastain, Joel Edgerton

25 January Director Allen Hughes Starring Mark Wahlberg, Russell Crowe, Catherine Zeta-Jones

SPRING 2013 RELEASES

CLOUD ATLAS

DJANGO UNCHAINED

18 January Director Quentin Tarantino Starring Jamie Foxx, Don Johnson, Leonardo DiCaprio

15 February Director Rich Moore Starring John C. Reilly, Jack McBrayer, Jane Lynch

ZERO DARK THIRTY

BROKEN CITY

22 February Director Tom Tykwer, Andy Wachowski, Lana Wachowski Starring Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugh Grant

WRECK IT RALPH (3D)

THE CROODS HYDE PARK ON HUDSON

1 February Director Roger Michell Starring Bill Murray, Laura Linney, Olivia Williams

22 March Director Kirk De Micco, Chris Sanders Starring Nicolas Cage, Ryan Reynolds, Emma Stone

LES MISERABLES

11 January Director Tom Hooper Starring Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway

LINCOLN

25 January Director Steven Spielberg Starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Walton Goggins

MONSTERS INC (3D)

GANGSTER SQUAD

11 January Director Ruben Fleischer Starring Sean Penn, Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone

A GOOD DAY TO DIE HARD

14 February Director John Moore Starring Bruce Willis, Jai Courtney, Mary Elizabeth Winstead

HITCHCOCK 8 February

18 January Director Pete Docter, David Silverman, Lee Unkrich Starring Billy Crystal, John Goodman, Mary Gibbs

QUARTET

4 January Director Dustin Hoffman Starring Maggie Smith, Michael Gambon, Billy Connolly

THIS IS 40

14 February Director Judd Apatow Starring Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Jason Segel

IRON MAN 3

26 April Director Shane Black Starring Robert Downey Jr., Guy Pearce, Gwyneth Paltrow

JACK THE GIANT KILLER (3D) 22 March Director Bryan Singer Starring Nicholas Hoult, Stanley Tucci, Ewan McGregor

OZ: THE GREAT AND POWERFUL (3D)

8 March Director Sam Raimi Starring James Franco, Michelle Williams, Rachel Weisz UK Release Dates are shown but may be subject to change

>> 28

merlin news

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

Merlin News / READ ALL ABOUT IT Luxury comes to the Regal! As mentioned in our last issue the first stage of the Regal Project in Redruth is now complete offering customers two additional Luxury Licensed screens, similar to the current screen 7, and I think they are very impressed to say the least! The foyer has also been brought up to date and on entering you really feel you are in for an exciting cinema experience.

You can see just how great the Regal is looking from the photos below. To add to the excitement two more screens will be opened in November and we will almost resume business as normal... apart from the grand reopening of Screen 1/The Regal Theatre early next year, but that始s no big deal!!! THE NEW FOYER Watch this space...

KING OF DEVILS ISLAND

Alternative Cinema Merlin Cinemas offer a chance to see some interesting films that rarely make it outside of the big cities, whether they are foreign language, cutting edge, contemporary or controversial releases. Films are shown on a Sunday and Monday at the Savoy Penzance, Wednesdays at the Royal St Ives, and Tuesdays at the Phoenix Falmouth. Take a look below to see what始s showing this season: 4 November - 7 November 8 November (Mid Season Special Savoy Only) 11 November - 14 November 18 November - 21 November 25 November - 28 November 2 December - 5 December 9 December - 12 December 13 December (Christmas Special Savoy Only)

DARK HORSE THE DISCREET CHARM OF THE BOURGEOISIE MONSIEUR LAZHAR KING OF DEVILS ISLAND KOSMOS 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD THE LIFE AND DEATH OF COLONEL BLIMP

SCREEN 4 AT THE REGAL

To celebrate the release of the exciting stage to screen adaptation of Les Miserables on the 11th January 2013 we are giving you the chance to win 4 tickets to see a film of your choice plus a small popcorn and regular drink each, just answer the following question:

Win

What is the name of the current London Theatre that is home to Les Miserables? Email the answer, your name and local cinema to admin@merlincinemas.co.uk

LES MISERABLES

Advertise Here! Just think if you are reading this, then so are your potential customers! For more information please call the team on 01736 331177 or email admin@merlincinemas.co.uk

MOVIE MAGIC features > reviews > previews > the best in local cinema >

>> 30

merlin news

NOVEMBER > DECEMBER

And Now For Something...

t n e r e f f i D e l t ...A Lit After the huge success of the initial Shakespeareʼs Globe Theatre and Royal Opera House screenings we have decided to extend the season and even try some new content from Cine Arts Live, who showcase an exciting series of live dance and music shows from across Europe! These performances will once again be shown at the Phoenix Cinema, Falmouth and New Carlton Cinema, Okehampton.

Cine Arts Live:

Live opera broadcast starring Simon Keenlyside and Krassimira Stoyanova | Tchailkovsky | Sung in Russian | Conducted by Robin Ticciati

Tʼammore - Tuesday 22nd January 2013. Time TBC Belcanto / Div4s - Tuesday 12th February 2013. Time TBC Pasion de Buena Vista - Tuesday 19th March 2013. Time TBC Gaelforce Dance - Tuesday 23rd April 2013. Time TBC

Morricone@Cannes - Tuesday 21st May 2013. Time TBC

The Royal Opera House:

Les Troyens - Sunday 18th November 2012 at 17.00 Opera starring Bryan Hymel and Eva-Maria Westbroek | Berlioz | Sung in French | Conducted by Antonio Pappano The Nutcracker LIVE - Thursday 13th December 2012 at 19.15 Live ballet broadcast starring Roberta Marquez and Steven McRae | Tchailkovsky | Choreography Lev Ivanov La Boheme LIVE - Tuesday 15th January 2013 at 19.15 Live opera broadcast starring Rolando Villazon and Maija Kovalevska | Puccini | Sung in Italian | Conducted by Mark Elder Eugene Onegin LIVE - Wednesday 20th February 2013 at 19.15

Aliceʼs Adventures in Wonderland LIVE - Thursday 28th March 2013 at 19.15 Live ballet broadcast | Talbot | Choreography Christopher Wheeldon | Casting TBC Nabucco LIVE - Monday 29th April 2013 at 19.15 Live opera broadcast starring Placido Domingo and Liudmyla Monastyrska | Verdi | Sung in Italian | Conducted by Nicola Luisotti La Donna Del Lago LIVE - Monday 27th May 2013 at 18.45 Live opera broadcast starring Juan Diego Florez and Joyce DiDonato | Rossini | Sung in Italian | Conducted by Michelle Mariotti Gloriana LIVE - Monday 24th June 2013 at 18.45 Live opera broadcast starring Susan Bullock and Toby Spence | Britten | Sung in English | Conducted by Paul Daniel

Prices are £15 for Adults and £10 for Concessions but Movie Magic Members will still receive their discount. For those customers wanting to make a night of it why not enquire about our Dinner and Live Cinema Deal where you can dine and enjoy your chosen performance for one fantastic price (Phoenix only)!

For more information call the Phoenix on 01326 313072 or New Carlton on 01837 658586. Alternatively visit www.merlincinemas.co.uk

Pasion de Buena Vista

The Nutcracker

La Boheme

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

Truro & Penwith College

Competitive Fees / Excellent Facilities and Teaching / Smaller Class Sizes QAA Quality Assured / Good Local Employer Links

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01872 267122

heinfo@truro-penwith.ac.uk

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