Thursday, April 30, 2015

Dear Me - a MUST watch Video..


This could help the real war on Drugs, NOT just Drugs R Bad, Sniffer Dogs at music festivals, this is real. Watch via link HERE

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

#I'mNotDavidNorMargaret, Film Reviews My Way 2015


It's hard reviewing such a massive Hollywood blockbuster (seemingly at times glorifying War (after my recent speaking out about Anzac Day) and at a time like now, but yesterday to get distraction from the horrid news of yesterday it was time to take in AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON.

Once I have had a moment to catch up on all the news etc I will give my response to the horrid news we woke to this morning that yes the death penalty is still alive and yes this brutal force shown by the Indonesian government has in fact gone down in the early hours of this morning.

So to the movie and putting everything aside, this is a chick flick, yep I said it, with tight shirts worn (almost at all times) by Chris Evans AKA Captain America and Thor, Aussie bloke Hemsworth always showing off those guns.

Their is also a nice romantic storyline between the Hulk & Black Widow. So this sequel to the initial Avengers film is definitely a date night film. Action for the boys and hot men for the girls.



So yes the action is great, the opening war/fight scene is well staged and brings all the crew together once again. Already a two part film is on the way acting on a third part and a third and fourth film in this series. Not to mention Marvel's Big Screen domination and now the Small Screen Domination. I will go over this more this week when I am ready for lighter posts.

I can't really compare it (not just cause it was pretty shit) but the Gunman had nothing on this if it classifies itself as an action film. The action in this (including yes a car chase) was top notch and all the Avengers particularly Iron Man just adds something to these films. Downey Jnr really is fantastic and it left me wanting a fourth Iron Man film.

These films do act as marketing for the remainder of the Marvel universe and of course right before this film commenced a wonderful looking Ant Man trailer aired to a perfect target market and a highly engaged group.

So I want to do a bigger piece on Marvel when I am not so distracted and I really just want to say while it's happening to anyone who knew Andrew Chan or Myuran Sukumaran my heart goes out to you. To their families (and new wife for Andrew Chan) this is heartbreaking time, my thoughts are with you all. Terrible, terrible time.

So if it even matters in the grand scheme of things, I enjoyed this distraction (whilst my thoughts were on other issues) and while I am proud of what Marvel is delivering (see below praise for Daredevil) I would love someone to edit the shit out of these films. The latest Avengers outing rates a solid 3 Stars.

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Beautiful Bali One Day, Horror Island the Next


I am back and safe and sound from a whirl wind and last minute trip to Bali. As I left my unit block on Saturday AM a neighbour looked at me when I told her of my travel plans she was like "bad timing hey, it's not somewhere where I would want to be" and really with their corrupt government and legal system nor would I normally.

However everyday Balinese and Indonesians alike are genuinely some of the most lovely people you will come across. The Tourist V Local thing was on the rise more than my last two visits and visiting in low season, you can tell when times get tough for tourism the locals really suffer. And after tomorrow AM I think the tourist trade will slow up even more.

To be honest if the executions of rehabilitated drug smugglers from the Bali Nine happen I will actually have to think twice about returning. It's not that I think the two deserve freedom and not to pay for their crimes but I feel the death penalty is too harsh for almost every crime. What will fellow low down the line drug smugglers learn from this? That you will be made an example of and no one who is actually running the drugs in Asia will ever be brought to justice.

We have all made mistakes and some are worse than others (I assume people at the AFP who tipped off the Indonesians would not be feeling to great today) but we all learn from mistakes. We are all human and as humans we make bad decisions, bad choices lead to errors and sometimes desperate measures result in extremely horrible consequences.

AFP don't get me wrong I am HARD LINE on drugs, I have lost friends to parting into the 30's where the 20's were a constant drug binge. I have no time for drugs and value what I put into my body. I dislike drinking and even more so drugs aren't just bad, they are fucked up.

No research is available for long term abuse of drugs but once it is I think eduction is key and Australian politicians (both sides), Police, Schools and Learning Institutions need to instil into the Stereosonic going crowds that getting fucked up on the weekends has long term mental and health issues and short term gains for cowards who are watching poor kids down the drug trade line murdered (yes I am using this term as a 12 man firing squad is just plain evil) in foreign countries for their financial gain.

So next time you buy a pill remember you are helping some rich fat C get rich whilst preying on poor people like Mary Jane Veloso who will leave her two young children motherless if she is not shown mercy.

So I am in line with everyone who says drugs are bad, they are but educate people on why they are, and what it means to them and people in third world countries who try anything to provide their family with a better life.

Today is truly tragic and like a heroine addict myself I am constantly checking news services online and on ABC News 24.

As much as I had a truly wonderful weekend free of Anzac parades and Two Up, I have to say it was always on my mind the sadness facing the nine families who may lose, a mother, a son, a new husband, a brother, an uncle, a friend, a co worker.

Shame on you Indonesia, you can not ask for clemency of your own citizens and not respect other countries of the same request. This is not acceptable and for fucks sake it's 2015, life is gift and  so help me if anyone complains about small things (1st world problems this week), you may have a large lecture incoming.

Saturday, April 25, 2015

Bali - Today, C U Next Tuesday


Yeah I said it - no BLOG till next Tuesday, so C U Next Tuesday MOFO's. Have a safe long weekend if your in Perth or a government worker in the ACT. Bloody hell what a joke this year is.

Anyhoo I'll be back online first thing Tuesday morning.

Catch you punks then xOxO

Friday, April 24, 2015

#I'mNotDavidNorMargaret, Film Reviews My Way 2015


Oh Nicholas Sparks, you card, in his 11th novel to the big screen effort he brings us THE LONGEST RIDE. And man is it a long fucking ride.



But guess what, I loved this film, yes the reviews are terrible, use it's cheesy and as predictable as fuck, but after the god damn Sydney Storms, hearing about Anzac Day every two minutes and just wanting to get the fuck away for a little while this was a breathe of fresh air and damn Scott Eastwood is as sexy as FUCK.

It's hard to believe he is Clint Eastwood's son. He is so dreamy, just a dish. Watching him was like heaven,

So the film, we have seen it all before and yes it's just like the last Sparks film I saw (I missed The Best of Me, but this was the same set up as Safe Haven) but you know if you have a formula that works stick to it I saw.

I'm not going to crap on about this film because it's not going to be everyones cup of tea and there are way more important things to write about, so The Longest Ride, it was long, a fun ride but it was all about Scott Eastwood for me. 3 Sexy Southern Stars, all for your Mr Eastwood...

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Daredevil - Renewed Season 2, here we come..


A.K.A. Jessica Jones still to air this year on Netflix the next Marvel TV project. Word on the street is that Agents of S.H.E.I.L.D will also be renewed however Agent Carter is looking like a one season wonder of all 8 exciting and highly camp episodes.

Netflix can seemingly do no wrong and with my own little research I am doing around the traps it's the pick of the streaming services here in Australia. With the majority of people at my work (Foxtel customers or not, Netflix is their preference over Stan or Presto) and others I talk to.

The renewal for Daredevil could not come at a better time (US time of renewal 21/4) with The Avengers opening here tonight (late sessions and also a massive amount of national screenings from tomorrow) it looks like another monster week in the Marvel offices.

Will it open number one at the box office? My guess is a strong YES, Fast & Furious 7 has done well for a few weeks now so it's time for another franchise to steal the crown. I am hoping, wishing and praying I will see this in Bali and deliver a review next week.

However tonight, storm pending (fucking Sydney storm, how dare you ruin my washing run I was having, dry smalls for days) I will see the latest Nicholas Sparks novel turned film. I miss the cinema.

And to anyone effected by the storm my thoughts are with you, it was seriously FUCKED up and I somehow think Mother Nature is a bit pissed off with us. Yes I'm sorry kids I think Climate Change is real, sorry conservatives and people who don't trust Science.

Anyway I missed boot camp (the final one for a while) due to all kinds of fucked up weather this AM and I for one just can't wait to leave Sydney for Bali this weekend.

Until next time kids, Randy Andy OUT!

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Is it un Australian to say Anzac Day is being over exposed this year?


And let's not mention the decision for there to be no public holiday....

But in all seriousness TV is saturated this year with Anzac coverage, see link here with ratings and a 50% drop off when Anzac programming commences. TV, newspapers, radio have all gone wall to wall for the entire week. Even my beloved Triple J's Hack program has donated the entire week to Anzac Day.

I do feel we should honour past soldiers yes, but is this the only thing happening in the world? Is this the biggest and most important news item right now? Australia needs to look forward and plan for the future, keeping just one foot ahead all the time and keeping to conservative and traditional values can only last for so long.

Unfortunately (for some) change is inevitable (look at the internet and technology - hello the piracy debate) and progressive governments are what is required. Or we need Labor and Liberal folk to talk. I know in 2015 actually talk, not snap chat, not FB private message, or tweet, sit down, grab a coffee (I'll have a soy latte thanks) and discuss, plan and meet each other halfway.

This country COULD be great, we have wonderful people, people from all walks of life, people with all different religions, beliefs, values and lifestyles. If we were all Andrew Bolt and the same, life would be pretty fucked. I mean if Reclaim Australia became an actual thing then I would seriously consider leaving Australia. I love people of all races, religions, gender, sexuality and belief systems. I was brought up to treat people the way I would like to be treated, it has always worked for me and I call on the parents of Australia to teach some patience, respect and if you want to get all religious, love thy neighbour. Be it if they are Muslim, Christian or don't believe in anything.

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Now that Victoria Grayson is dead, it's time to bury Revenge


Revenge has had a shocking fourth series, between all the breaks, all the dodgy new characters and Madeleine Stowe's frozen forehead the show is on a swift downward spiral.

On last nights episode Victoria Grayson blew up Grayson manor with herself still in there. Thank god is what I thought, with her and Conrad now gone, Daniel shot earlier this season and Charlotte missing in action in time to bury this once great soap opera.

Series one offered a lot of promise and gave us a break from crime drama's, murder mysteries, super hero TV series remakes/spin offs or hospital dramas.

Their was a lot on offer when this show hit the screens back in 2011, it debuted to 10 million US viewers, now if lucky it hovers around 4 million with people still tuning in to see what the end game of this over played Revenge card will bring.

With Jack also bailing on the failing drama to a new life in LA with his family, it's a wonder he his the screen save on next week's trailer.


Come on Revenge for all of us who just want to put this to bed (like Lost, Glee and Desperate Housewives all living way past their used by dates) please what is the end game? And can it please be announced on Sunday May 10 the Season Four Finale? Please..

Monday, April 20, 2015

Bali incoming - BLOG on leave as of Saturday...


Yeah it's that time again, Bali time. It's been real in 2015 thus far dear readers, the films, the music, the horrible Abbott government. But it's time to piss off to Asia again. I am still sad for no second long weekend in April however time off is well overdue and I will hopefully bring you some stunning happy snaps from the land of Eat, Pray, Love.

So this week it's business as usual until Saturday lunch but then it's a long weekend in Bali.

Have a good wet week kids xoxo

Sunday, April 19, 2015

#I'mNotDavidNorMargaret, Film Reviews My Way 2015


54 Year old Sean Penn has been working it good, his body for a 54 year old male is insane, he has biceps and a torso of steel. In THE GUNMAN we see Penn in a weird love triangle in Congo which then one action turns into a 8 year later action sequence across Europe.

All sound a little familiar, ageing white male lead decides to get some action? Well yes it's directed by the same dude that gave us Taken (Liam Neeson has found a niche with these films) and starring an extremely irritating Javier Bardem as the other part in the love triangle, as Bardem and Penn fight for Jasmine Trinca (who looks great in a white shirt and no pants - we see this multiple times) love.



Overall this film is actually really below par on the action front. Unlike Daredevil (TV Series) which is a produced for TV series (Netflix - all episodes aired Fri 10 Apr) this film has no soul, no care factor and extremely weak plot. Daredevil shows action and good actors makes for great viewing.

Strong acting and strong action sequences are hard to get right so Daredevil should now be a masterclass for all those who come after and unfortunately the Gunman just doesn't fire in the same way a lot of other recent action films do.

Penn's body is banging, head still needs work but banging body, but overall this film needs a complete makeover not just Penn's abs.

I can't pass this film but it had it's moments so 2 not so rock hard stars for the Gunman.

Saturday, April 18, 2015

Album of the Year, Music and MORE Music


Boxing Day is not even that far off, and the album of the year race is already well on the way. First up his album had so much hype prior to it's release with the monster smash Uptown Funk. I'm talking about Mark Ronson and Uptown Special, my first nomination for the album of the year for 2015.

Second up Mr Kendrick Lamar, what an all star, all amazing, all killer no fill record, I'm talking about  To Pimp a Butterfly. It's easily one of the most funky, most political and most critically acclaimed records of 2015 thus far. King Kunta is finally climbing the charts and The Blacker the Berry is one of the most important tracks of 2015.

Onwards and upwards from amazing albums, 2015 although providing us with these gems is struggling a little to keep the album alive. With artists turning to mix tapes, multiple singles, EP's and the power of a hot, blogged and hyped music video is a force to reckon with. FKA Twigs continues to show the world her world through music videos and I for one am now a MASSIVE fan.

Anna Lunoe a Sydney producer (now Globe trotter) has been a perfect example of an artist who collaborates releases EP's and moves onto the next collaboration or EP. His latest track Pusher with Vancouver producer Sleepy Tom is simply a winner.

I usually reserve this BLOG for my film reviews and social statements but my poor other music blog can barely keep up in 2015. Flashing off the Record is about to celebrate 100 posts ahead of a quick Anzac weekend away for me in Bali and I couldn't be happier to bring you a feature record a week, a couple of music lists a week and weekend specials.

2015 definitely is a game changer for music, Tidal the new streaming service endorsed by some of the worlds most entitled musicians in the world is now a new platform for the likes of Rihanna and Kanye to release new music. Both on an audio and visual level.

I am very excited for the year to bring more new music from Sia, Alpine, Miami Horror, Florence and the Machine, Major Lazer, Years & Years and Nero.

What an exciting year ahead, who will take out my Album of 2015, well have to wait for Boxing Day and also on Boxing Day I will unveil 200 all the way down to 101 of the best songs of 2015. Then Australia Day 2016, Number 1 for 2015 will be revealed.

Until next time keep an eye on Flashing off the Record, keep discovering new music and if your a true music fan this year I think Triple J are doing a terrific job and continuing to deliver terrific songs and great programming unheard on any of the other rather lame and outdated commercial rivals.

Friday, April 17, 2015

What a GREAT late birthday gift


A gem of an Aussie film is coming, I originally saw this as a play written by Brendan Cowell at Belvoir. This was performed to sell out audiences and critical acclaim. Let's just hope this saves the Aussie film market.



Also Robyn Nevin as the fab mother, LOVE IT.

Happy Friday...

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Another Month Flying Past - Seeya Later April


With Easter, Anzac Day and a school holiday rush at the Easter show April is a month that traditionally passes us by. This year has been mad with an early Easter (plus the show), school holidays to boot and then Anzac Day with no holiday wrapping the month up.

My TV addiction too is also helping this month along with Wentworth, The Checkout, The Red Road, Daredevil, Bloodline & Poh all returning to a screen (be it lap top, conventional TV or iPhone) near you.

Not only has it been a month of lolidays, massive news stories breaking and Murdoch press under fire for THAT Courier Mail cover and music galore to wrap my little old ears around.

Can 2015 please slow down a wee bit every day I just wish for five minutes to breathe and every weekend I wish for a weekend that can just go slow. It hasn't happened yet but maybe with the Winter incoming Sydney will hibernate once again.



Monday, April 13, 2015

#I'mNotDavidNorMargaret, Film Reviews My Way 2015


I usually strongly dislike Ben Stiller but love Naomi Watts, so much so like Poh and Penny Wong I want a coffee + movie date with. Veronica Milsom from JJJ Drive is almost on that list too, she is fucking shit hot. But I'm actually here today to review + discuss WHILE WE'RE YOUNG.

What can I say about this film beyond the fact I love Naomi Watts more now after this wonderful film. I love Adam Driver & Amanda Seyfried. Plus Ad-Rock from the Beastie Boys, give me a FUCK Yes!



This movie is so well made, so well written and so well acted I was just in love super early on.

Is there a reason why Adam Driver is just so cool or is it because he is in the HBO mega hit Girls? I Don't know but he interests me to no end.

The dialogue the real relationships and the real divide between the ages explored in this film is raw and honest and to say this is the most fun I have had at the cinema in a while is no lie.

I enjoyed my three Easter Long Weekend films but this was GOLD.

Can I do it this early in the year? Fuck it, 5 Stars, loved the shit out of this.

Sunday, April 12, 2015

Daredevil Marvel's Darkest Effort Yet...


Starring Charlie Cox as the lead Daredevil (replacing Ben Affleck from the 2003 film version) this is the latest Netflix series to appear after the brilliant and critically acclaimed Bloodline.

Their are several Marvel TV series to come on Netflix following the wonderful Agent Carter 8 episode mid season filler on ABC (USA Network) and Marvel's Agent's of S.H.I.E.L.D. ABC has boundaries whereas Netflix it's open season for violence, language and general content.

The acting is great (admittedly) I am only on episode one but loving Jessica (True Blood Ginger Baby Vamp) or Deborah Ann Woll playing young Karen Page.

Set in the whole Marvel Universe and serving as a cross promo piece of marketing as we lead into the second Avengers film, Marvel seems to be taking over both the big screen (Avengers 2 this month and Ant Man later in 2015) and the small screen.

Netflix is going hard and strong and showing their versatility, from family drama Bloodline to political and psychological drama/thriller with House of Cards and out there comedy with Orange is the New Black (season 3 available June) and now action/comic book shows.

This is just another nail in the already nailed up Free to Air coffin. I saw an ad for some other shit reno show on Channel 9 and just thought FML, from cooking shows to reno shows to singing competitions, it's really a dark day for Aussie TV. And with the mid year Easter non ratings period it's very clear to me Australian TV is on it's last legs.

That said full props to Netflix for investing in drama and building a brand (like HBO and Showtime who created the Golden Age of TV) that is now known to even those who are in the TV loving zone.

I can only say how grateful I am to people at these networks (Netflix, HBO & Showtime & locally the ABC & SBS) for being daring, being creative and challenging the viewer with gritty and real stories. Not scripted, heavily edited and Reclaim Australia ready white wash reality bull shit.

Friday, April 10, 2015

Dallas Buyers Club Pirates Debate


So people who read this BLOG know I love my entertainment shit, I saw (all paid for or through vouchers) three films at the cinema over the long weekend alone, I find the movies one of the only relaxing places in 2015 and see BIG things happening at the movies from now until forever.

Films and event cinema like Fast & Furious 7, Fifty Shades of Grey and Avengers/Marvel films make the cinema a unique and wonderful way to experience the miracle that is the movies. Home shitty downloads of cam films and poor quality with shit sound equals a very underwhelming experience. So for me, the movies cannot be replaced for poor quality downloads.

That said, without Global release dates, film studios in 2015 should expect, budget and not be at all surprised by piracy. Dallas Buyers Club is interesting, I can honestly say I had a paid for ticket to the movies to see this wonderful film, however I am not sure chasing people to try and recoup any lost funds the way they did in the US is the right way forward.

So let's look at marketing and distribution and the life cycle of a film. You get a cinema release where you comp in dozens, if not worldwide hundreds of reviewers, bloggers, celebs to see and discuss/review the film. You get your opening weekend box office and subsequent weeks at the cinema revenue. You leave the film be and then start the cycle again.

Press the DVD, comp out hundreds/thousands of copies for reviewers/promo/competitions and then your big release date. You start out at a premium price and now (on JB HI-FI online) you can get the DVD for $12.98 or Blu Ray for $19.98. Now this is based on Dallas Buyers Club and if I am using JB Hi Fi they commonly run 20% off Blu Rays and DVDS, so actually the film commonly retails for $10.38.

So now at the DVD and then discounted DVD sales time line, is it all a little late for a film you could buy for as little as $10.38?

In the US people have been known to have been fined $9,000, however is this stopping people? A great test will be this coming Sunday/Monday (Aussie time) when Game of Thrones Season Five launches or the online file Game of Thrones S05E01 is put out.

Now Game of Thrones/HBO always seems to have a strange/funny stance and great pride in being the MOST downloaded show around. And does all this FREE PR assist the show when they are launching? Let's be honest HBO have done some cool shit over the years and to be honest this isn't their best work.

So is Dallas Buyers Club and the distributor getting a heap of free marketing at present? Will anything happen in Australia like the US? Where will be piracy be in three years time? And how much does this actually cost the film giants who can still pay out millions to their leads whilst millions of Americans are finding it hard to buy food/provide shelter for their families.

Here are some costs involved in supporting the arts:

Ticket to the movies via Optus Rewards - $10 (excludes Saturdays after 5pm) (fair price)
New Premium Album on iTunes - $16.99 (debatable)
Platinum Ticket to Fleetwood Mac - $305.75 (fucking rip off)
Ticket to Ronny Chieng as part of Sydney Comedy Festival - $35.58 (great value to see this handsome man swear and tell funny tales)

So there is some good value and some pricing that leaves a lot to be desired, so maybe people in the arts world, take a look around, what are you selling and what is it actually worth? If you are looking to recoup losses, how much are you losing?

Dallas Buyers Club at this late stage of your products life, you are entitled to $10.38 from any Australian who downloaded this film. If you are trying/aiming for $9,000 you're dreaming and no offence the film wasn't that good.

Thursday, April 9, 2015

Australia's Best Drama Returns to Foxtel


Thank god for Wentworth, I can't say enough good things about this show, Pamela Rabe is divine as the Governor, Danielle Cormack as ring leader Be a Smith is wonderful and Nicole da Silva has a new playmate in Pia Miranda. Love is definitely in the air for the women in Wentworth.

Libby Tanner has also joined the season 3 cast and with series 4 green lit and sales of the show to over 20 countries this show is clearly Australia's biggest export.

With below average Reality Series in mass production it's fantastic Tuesday nights are now the home of world class home made drama. Episode One started with a bang and this season is promising big things.



All I can repeat is thank god for Wentworth (and Poh & Co on the lighter side of TV) as Aussie TV even said by David Gyngell (CEO of Channel 9) is going to the dogs.

You have to wonder in 2020 where Free to Air TV will be and what companies are still being sucked in to pay large amounts of cash for ad's where no one is actually watching...

Wednesday, April 8, 2015

News Flash! The Royals - Hottest new Trash on TV!


Empire has been described by some as a musical soap opera and The Royals is just plain trashy soap opera. Led by Liz Hurley this is magnificent! The Royals in the eyes of the US hosted on trashy E Network this show is going viral and in a big way.

I heard whispers of it after the second episode and by the fourth (which aired yesterday in the US) this show is almost getting a cult following for it's trashy story lines and displays of hot flesh.

Since Dallas has been axed by TNT their was a gap in the market for a sexy romp filled drama and I think The Royals fills that gap nicely.



If that didn't wet your old whistle I don't know what will, but take my word for it, this show is pure fun. It doesn't try and be something it's not it's just pure sexy trash and that is fine by me.

The Royals has already been renewed for a second series and is currently halfway through it's ten episode first season. Whilst a number of shows have ended for the 2014-2015 season, here is one to get you through those cooler April nights.

Tuesday, April 7, 2015

#I'mNotDavidNorMargaret, Film Reviews My Way 2015


Time Burton has made his best film in years with BIG EYES. That said I had no time for his three films in 2012 and Alice in Wonderland was a bit blah and Sweeney Todd was well a little odd. And looking back his Batman films were pretty shit in comparison to the recent Christopher Nolan Batman series.

So I was extremely delighted to see this true story played out by Amy Adams and produced & directed by Mr Tim Burton.



Amy Adams is truly delightful as Margaret Keane a woman trapped with a secret by her at times deranged husband played by Christoph Waltz.

I sounded like I was going to be a Debbie downer on this film in my intro however I really enjoyed this film. So much so it gets my film of the long weekend and to be honest it was the one I was least excited about or had high hopes for.

This story was so interesting and so engrossing I found myself rooting for Adams to make a break and when she did I was like you go girl and man I love Hawaii. Filmed in two parts of the USA I had recently been to also helped with my interest and excitement around the film.

Acted superbly and with a couple of divine Lana Del Rey songs thrown in for good measure Big Eyes ticked a lot of boxes for me.

Tim Burton usually goes all over the top but in this film it's all very controlled well done and well measured.

I cannot recommend this film enough to anyone who enjoys art, good cinema and a lesson in life. Always follow your passion but be careful with who you pair up with, it could have extreme consequences.

Big Eyes is just great and I give it a high storing BIG 4.5 Stars.

Monday, April 6, 2015

#I'mNotDavidNorMargaret, Film Reviews My Way 2015


Teen films and coming of age films are commonly reviewed on this BLOG and I have to say as predictable and cliche ridden as THE DUFF is I actually enjoyed myself.

Whilst loving Easter sick (despite my post yesterday about the ridiculous movement known as Reclaim Australia) I am loving the few films aimed at the high school students/uni kids this Easter Holiday season.

The Duff stars the dreamy Robbie Amell who has a chest and abs of steal and is the main love interest in this coming of age pic where we learn about Designated Ugly Fat Friends. Online bullying is fucked and this film explores how one mean girl and her right hand slut can make one girls life hell. However our idol in this film turns her life around and shit gets real for her. Thank god.

Bullying is ugly and I hope if one bully sees this and realises there lifestyle is not the right path then it has worked.



It's genre falls under comedy but I think there are a couple of good life lessons in this. Teens dealing with divorced parents, fitting in, using social media responsibly and learning to love yourself.

I throughly enjoyed the Duff and I can't wait for the next teenage/coming of age film, bring it, cause all I see is wall to wall action and sequels on the way. The Duff rates a well done 3.5 Stars.

Sunday, April 5, 2015

Reclaim Australia - R U Fucking Kidding Me....


There is something about a religious holiday that brings out the crazy and this Easter it's Reclaim Australia. Heavens above, it makes me wanna hate watching the footage from these events yesterday. And Pauline Hanson returning, FML, I didn't protest against her so called "Asian Invasion" in the late 1990's for her still to be around spreading her ginger hate.

This is a disgusting movement and I hate seeing pictures of children being dragged along by their uneducated parents. What a great way for you to bring up the next generation of Australians. You may as well just given them pages and pages of dribble that Andrew Bolt posts on his blog on a daily basis.

This is unacceptable in 2015 and where is our so called Prime Minister to oppose this? It's like it's another State Election, he is nowhere to be seen. What a disgrace you are Mr PM. Not only are you an international joke but you don't even stick up for your own.

If the Royal Commission has taught us anything the Christians aren't exactly the saints a lot of these people at Reclaim Australia may believe.


I really hope the above have jobs and my god does this just make you want commit, and below the blind leading the blind:


So hows about you morons save your cash and travel overseas, find out what it's like in another country/culture. Read a book, see a play, get cultured. I am very lucky and privileged was brought up to respect ALL people, of any race, religion or background. My parents did a fucking amazing job and I wish more "Australian" parents would take the same approach.

My father worked for Qantas and as I child I had a privilege up bringing of travelling the globe from local destinations like Fuji and NZ to Asian wonders like Thailand and Singapore. I explored parts of Europe and the USA. Through this travel and these experiences my family taught me of others and their beliefs, traditions and values. I went to Sunday School as a child but early on knew the church wasn't for me.

I came out at age 14 on the Central Coast and was bullied for my final few years of school. I grew a thick skin and had a real fuck you attitude through my 20's. I grew a love of indie music and rejected commercial and sub standard forms of entertainment. I lived in Vancouver, BC Canada for a year and half and did two nights a week of volunteer work with homeless male sex workers.

I learned so much, I cried on a weekly based and praised my parents for the bang on job they did with me. So what I am saying here, is if you are a parent, don't be a fuckwit and let your child hold signs they don't know the meaning of, educate them, take them places (it doesn't have to be overseas), encourage them to try new things, mix with people.

Fuck without immigration I would have NO friends. Variety is the spice of life and this style of protesting/action is a disaster and I am ashamed today to be white/Australian. Cronulla was horrific enough, you guys below are so brave aren't you with your faces covered:


Now to Issac Luke and your "gay" slur during the weekend, I am upset as I though you were a hot piece of Ass and let's be honest Redfern is full of gays who look up too or just get hard to, so please remember them when your angry and on fucking social media.

That is all, Happy Easter Sunday and for the parents out there in between feeding them shitty food and taking them to the Easter show, teach them to respect others, there differences and their set of values, beliefs and traditions. If everyone was the same it would be a fucking tragic place to exist right?

Saturday, April 4, 2015

Netflix continues to Renew titles with House of Cards..


Returning for Season 4 in 2016. Along with this the Get Down the new Baz Luhrmann series will also be on the cards. Yes that is a bad pun.

In other TV news Silicon Valley, Veep and Game of Thrones all returning showing HBO has the extreme line up other networks only dream of. Shameless for Showtime is also about to wrap up an exceptional 5th season.

Now I have been extremely hard on Australian TV lately however SBS debuted this little gem this week and guess what it's borderline reality! Sort of a cross between Masterchef and the Block. It's Poh & Co.



I am a long time fan of Poh Ling Yeow. I hate reality food shows but I am a sucker for a food show that is not based on competition, but more the meaning of food and the origins of different dishes.

Luke Nguyen has this down pat his SBS series have become extremely popular and his city restaurants are always packed. It also landed him a role in Masterchef Vietnam.

However Poh does something different, she takes food and adds other aspects of life.

Her ABC series Poh's Kitchen was extremely touching, I often found myself reaching for the tissues and thinking fucking hell this woman is amazing, please like Penny Wong relocate from Adelaide to Sydney, Please! I still extend an open invite to Penny to attend a movie of your choice with me and a soy latte. Penny Wong is one of this nations most intelligent and divine people.

Poh is making her way up my list of people I would also die to spend a day with. She takes food, family and friends (and her cute dog) all along for the ride in this cute new 6 part series.

If you hate free to air TV and waiting around for a show to air, you can pre order the DVD here.

So if you home Thursday's at 8pm, give Poh and Co a go, it's the best of the reality genre without the bitches, without the bogans, it's real life in Adelaide's suburbs and I really dig it.

Well done Poh (and Co) xo

Friday, April 3, 2015

#I'mNotDavidNorMargaret, Film Reviews My Way 2015


It's hard to review this film, it's the biggest release of the Easter Long Weekend and the untimely death of Paul Walker almost outshines the film, but I went into FAST & FURIOUS 7 with an open mind.

I knew it was LONG and my word was it LONG. It went to most countries in the world, featured an all star cast (The Expendables came to mind when I was looking at everyone in this feature) and Paul Walker (no spoilers here) was given a worthy send off.

I found at times this just keep going and going, but the action scenes/car chase scenes were well done and Aussie director Mr James Wan did a great job. James Wan is now one of the greatest directors/names in Hollywood, originally from right here in Australia.

Look no awards will be coming this films way, no major accolades however I think this may just gross the most money for a Fast & Furious franchise. Some of the scenes are completely over the top and completely stupid but I really did after the past few weeks I have had checked my brain at the door.



I must say if there were more impressive releases this week this film would not have been my number one choice but after seeing Cinderella, Run all Night & Get Hard already there was little else on that took my fancy.

There is no doubt in my mind their will be a Fast & Furious 8, but for now this is Fast, it's Furious and I give it 3 stars in tribute to Paul Walker.

Bloodline, The American's Renewed


Whilst TV in Australia hits new lows (despite the wonderfully brilliant Wentworth returning next week) the US is smashing out renewals, new series and celebrating the sensational debut that was Empire.

Bloodline the new series from the creators of Damages just had their series stream on Netflix and now not long after it aired, series 2 is announced.

Russian soys invading the US in the Americans has also just been picked up for a fourth season despite ratings this season not being their best.

Empire got a super early green light for season 2 and Wentworth (locally) didn't have to air a single episode this season before being renewed.

For a serious TV lover like me it's great to see so many exciting new projects either continuing or starting up. It's also a shame when locally I love to support Aussie talent and Aussie created entertainment, but I cannot and will not support the endless reality dribble or second rate series aired on network television. Hello Stan, Netflix and Presto, it's time Free to Air/Network television gets a massive kick up the ass.

Thursday, April 2, 2015

#I'mNotDavidNorMargaret, Film Reviews My Way 2015


What are Disney up to? Cross Promotion during CINDERELLA last night was worse than Sunrise or the Today show with a whole mini feature on their Frozen Fever film. Yes Disney are now the kings of cross promo. Use their sure fire hit Frozen to lure children and Frozen fans into a session of Cinderella with the promise of an exclusive Frozen moment. Oh boy.

But I am not 100% pissed at Disney because a little fairytale and romance was just what the doctor ordered pre Easter.



With Easter/School Holiday films really a poor spread this year Disney is aiming at old fans of this tale (if we didn't get enough during Into the Woods that is) and young girls wanting a fantasy life.

It's hard taking on this role after Anna Kendrick is just a tour de force (can sing, can act and can dance - TRIPLE Threat!) but Lily James is pleasant enough.

I can't go on any further without mentioning my favourite Jasmine, oops I mean Cate Blanchett. What a vision and the costumes in this feature were magnificent! Cate was just simply sublime as the evil step mother. The daughters so so but Cate, just fabulous.

Overall Cinderella is not the best film (nor the worst) this Easter but it's well worth a look (even if your just a Frozen fan and want to hear that new song), I give Cinderella 3 glass slippers, two for Cate and one for bringing the romance.

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

#I'mNotDavidNorMargaret, Film Reviews My Way 2015


I am by no means a huge Will Ferrell or Kevin Hart fun but I have to enjoy for the most part GET HARD. In a packed cinema on a cheap Tuesday this comedy really packed em in. After hearing the really bad reviews and knowing I wasn't a massive Will Ferrell (I hated Anchorman - yes you can say I have no sense of humour, but that film was dreadful) or Kevin Hart fan, that said (twice now) I was happy to be back in the cinema after spending the past weekend in Melbourne.



This film will will no awards nor will it be in my end of year film list, but I had a few laugh out loud moments.

T.I was impressive as his role as a gangster but more for the fact he is actually extremely handsome.

Get Hard it's probably doing extremely well at the box office but how will it go against Fast & Furious this weekend.

Get Hard it's no Five Star film, it's a pass mark of 2.5 HARD Stars.