A Single Man, The Prince Charles Cinema, 03/04/10

I was at the PCC earlier to see 'A Single Man' the recently released debut film by Tom Ford. The story focuses on the slow, almost methodical emotional breakdown of a gay English teacher based in 1960s Los Angeles.

From the outset it proved a very measured, artfully shot film containing some great period detailing. It was one of those movies where not a great deal actually happens but what does is very beautifully presented. The story unfolded at an unhurried pace, with frequent use of lingering close ups. As widely reported, Colin Firth was very good. Although not as successful or enjoyable a film, the restraint of the plot and it's key characters on occasion reminded me of 'Lost In Translation'.

Despite the sadness of the story however I found it emotionally slightly unengaging. For me it was definitely more of a film to admire and appreciate rather than form a direct connection with.

The Road, Prince Charles Cinema, 06/03/10

I made a long overdue visit to the wonderful PCC on Saturday afternoon to see 'The Road'. I had read the novel by Cormac McCarthy (twice) so was quite interested to see how it would translate on to the big screen. I was also quite keen to check out the newly refurbished PCC (the new seats are good!).

As expected, the film was quite heavy going. And bleak. And very grey. With a heartbreaking ending.

It was almost as powerful as the novel, which I wasn't expecting. The novel deals with the relationship between the father and son with real tenderness and moves at a pace which is almost impossible to recreate on the screen I think. I also liked the space which the prose in the novel was afforded. Still, a very sad and affecting film. Probably not the best film to watch when your wife and little boy are on the other side of the world though...

The score by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis was minimal and restrained in style which proved effective. It sounded like Arvo Part at times.