Italy is a country rich in history and culture and is largely represented to international audiences through the medium of film. To be studying a country through various films as I currently am is a very interesting concept, and what better way is there to share this with you than through my understandings of what these films represent? Over the next few months you will see analytical reviews on some of Italy’s most revered and obscure films and what they mean in representing their homeland. We start with Luchino Visconti’s 1963 epic, Il Gattopardo (The Leopard).

In the wake of the 81′st Oscar’s in February, I asked the question of what people thought of Hugh Jackman’s handling of host. Leading up to the event, I must say I was skeptical; Hugh isn’t exactly the first name that springs to mind when you think ‘Oscar host’. The underwhelming performance of Australia also loomed over his name, furthering my concern that people simply wouldn’t take to his Aussie charm any more than they did in the film.  However, given the poor television ratings of the ceremony over the last few years, it was probably a good thing he’s not the ‘typical’ choice. I think everyone with interest in the industry can safely say that the choice, whether they thought good or bad of it, were intrigued enough to watch the Oscar’s to see how he handled the gig. I know I was.

It’s exciting to see a film that questions not just society, but you as a person; your moral standing and how you see life. Even more fascinating for some is that it can come from a ‘superhero’ film. At the time of writing, Watchmen is still in cinemas after receiving mixed reviews from both the critics and the general public. Those expecting a film of the Superman kind are kidding themselves because this film is the anti-Christ to all the G-rated crime-busters. Watchmen is as relevant now in today’s world as it was in 1985, when the graphic novel series took readers’ worldly perceptions to a whole new place. (Warning: Spoilers)

Welcome to our new segment where each week (hopefully!) we will put the spotlight on an actor, director, producer or personality, whether they be young hopefuls, quiet achievers or superstars. We’ll provide you with a bit of a biography for this person, some fast facts, a list of their works and a personal opinion too! Enjoy learning more about your favourite Hollywood stars or learning about that guy or girl you’ve seen in lots of films, but whose name constantly evades you!!

 I hate to be one to choose something so bleedingly obvious for my very first contribution to this fine website but at the same time, I think there really might be no better starting block (apart from maybe Christmas) for a top 10 list than Valentines Day. Cast your mind out, to every film you’ve seen with a “love interest”, whatever end of the clichéd to avant garde spectrum they may fall. There’s a lot to choose from, yes? A lot of ways to skin a cat, a lot of ways to choose ten films.

A few weeks ago, as I was holidaying in Sydney, I discovered that I had landed right in the middle of the Sydney Festival, the city’s annual festival of arts. Flicking through the guide, one play instantly captured my attention: because it was formed from Shakespeare’s works, and because it featured the beautiful and sensationally talented Cate Blanchett. I know that this website is for movie reviews, but after watching this breathtaking four hour epic, I had to share it with everyone! So pick a rose, and choose your side, because the war for the crown has well and truly begun: this is The War of the Roses, Part 2…

At the start of this month I unveiled what I thought to be the most underrated films of 2008. Of course, this begs another question; what is the most overrated films of the last year? Instead of writing an article, I took it to a poll. Obviously not every acclaimed or popular film was an option, but I think the poll covered most bases.

Last year was a trying time for politics worldwide – Bush and his Republicans were ousted by promising Democrat Barack Obama, Robert Mugabe couldn’t accept the fact Zimbabweans didn’t re-elect him, China were out of favour after the Beijing Olympics failed to lighten their image and Russian media seemed to comment on Vladimir Putin’s body more favourably over his work. As the US is a powerhouse of the Western world, Hollywood usually focuses on its homeland when it comes to big political films. The 08-09 summer is no exception, with Frost/Nixon (here in Australia) first released ahead of February’s W, Oliver Stone’s take on Dubya’s years in office. American Presidents have always provided interesting, if not scandalous, affairs, but none could have been bigger than what turned out to be the greatest investigative journalism piece in history – the Watergate scandal.