NightOwl

Bio: I generally only watch something that I think is going to rate above 50%. My ratings are based on adding two scores out of 50:

(1) ENJOYMENT FACTOR = how emotionally or visually engaging and pleasurable the film or television series was (i.e. was the plot interesting, was the acting good, were the locations or even just the cast good to look at, et cetera). The EJ is basically my emotional reaction to the film/series.

(2) INTELLECTUAL FACTOR = how intellectually worthwhile the film/series as (e.g. psychological complexity, script quality, historical accuracy, plausibility/realism, philosophical or political interest etc.) The IF score takes into account the primary intended audience (e.g. adults or children, general or niche/minority audience).

Recent Ratings

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73 _38%

8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown (2012) - Rated 29 Sep 2021

Some guests are definitely better than others, but the regular cast are always very amusing, although maybe Jimmy Carr sometimes goes a bit too far (no rhyme intended), as do Joe Wilkinson with the ludicrous props. I've found my mental arithmetic has improved by doing the numbers rounds. But I mainly watch because I'm in love with Jon Richardson... EJ43, IF30.

80 _63%

Romeo & Juliet (2013) - Rated 27 Sep 2021

A great adaptation that remains largely faithful to the text. Much better than that dancy-prancy version that got so much unwarranted attention. Great performances - Damian Lewis is especially notable and the two leads are good enough not to be ruined by being so ludicrously pretty, but the real surprise is Christian Cooke, who demonstrates that he has the ability both to do Shakespeare and look superb it tight duds. EJ40, IF40

70 _32%

Locke (2014) - Rated 27 Sep 2021

Tom Hardy is great in this somewhat experimental film, which I had to watch until the end. Whatever one thinks of the plot in the end, it demonstrates once again just how good this Tom is - much better than some of his namesakes.

77 _48%

North West Frontier (1959) - Rated 27 Sep 2021

I saw this late at night on TV over 20 years ago. I'd like to see it again to give a real opinion. Loved Bacall.

78 _53%

Beauty and the Beast (2014) - Rated 27 Sep 2021

Marvellous version of a classic fairy tale. Visually sumptuous. Told for adults as well as children. My only real criticism is the rather Disney-style animation for the dog-creatures that inhabit the Beast's castle. EJ40, IF38

95 _97%

Belle et Sébastien, l'aventure continue (2015) - Rated 27 Sep 2021

Once again, a brilliant children's film. EJ 50, IF 45

59 _17%

Astérix et Obélix: Au service de Sa Majesté (2012) - Rated 23 Sep 2021

Somewhat slapstick comedy drama aimed at a young audience that unashamedly indulges in national stereotypes, but always tongue-in-cheek. Fine for adults to pass the time if, like me, you loved the Asterix books as a kid. Also fine if you like looking at Vincent Lacoste in a tight pair of jeans. (I remember when I looked that good...) EJ 34, IF 25.

78 _53%

Merlin (2008) - Rated 23 Sep 2021

I would have loved this series 40 years ago. Generally good fun aimed at a young audience, but would've been better if the Arthur-Merlin bromance had emerged a bit from the shadows. Maybe Morgan and James could do an adult version... (PS: Merlin's summoning the dragon is almost audio-erotic.] EJ 36, IF 32

75 _43%

Cheerful Weather for the Wedding (2012) - Rated 23 Sep 2021

Amusing with good performances from the whole cast. But not for anyone with a chip on their shoulder about class. EJ 42 IF 33

75 _43%

I, Claudius (1976) - Rated 22 Sep 2021

This is a great series, although it has dated because it was made back in the day when the BBC did most of its filming in over-lit studios. Nowadays it's best viewed like a filmed play. I can still remember the feeling of excitement as the title sequence began each episode when it was broadcast in Australia back in 1979 & again in 1980. Phillips, Jacobi and Blessed are especially memorable. Don't assume historical exactitude. EF 40, IF 35.