Streetdance 2 (3D): Just Got Some Latin Flavour

This week South African cinemas stage the sequel to the 2010 silver-screen smash hit ‘Streetdance 3D’!

After suffering a humiliating defeat in London to the reigning street dance crew Invincible, Ash teams with fast-talking manager Eddie (George Sampson, returning from the original StreetDance) and set out to gather Europe's premier freestylers and have a shot at winning the ultimate tournament in Paris. They’ll need an edge though, and Ash discovers it in an underground salsa club.

Sure, when it comes to plot and character depth Streetdance 2 is predictable and somewhat superficial but hey, in the end, it gives the people what we want; A high-voltage dose of spectacular street dance-offs now with whole lotta Latin flavour!

Taken 2 – Espionage Escapism at its Best

It may seem a surprise that creators have managed to squeeze a sequel, but they have!

Liam Neeson is back in his role as the nervy ex-CIA agent Bryan Mills with a nasty streak for vengeance. He is posted to Istanbul on a straight forward protection job, unaware that the family and friends of the gangsters he slaughtered in his first outing plan to take their bloody revenge (and I think we all know what happens to criminals that cross Bryan Mills).

Although most critics were not taken by the sequel it's had unprecedented box-office success, having tripled the takings of the first film in Britain - a true testament to the film's cult status and our incessant addiction for an escape into the world of over-the-top espionage.

Sources: www.thesun.co.uk; www.purplerevolver.com

Hotel Transylvania – Trick or Treat?

With Halloween in sight, Hotel Transylvania is latest animated film to hit the cinema circuit, but the question is trick or treat?

A human named Johnny stumbles upon Dracula’s high-end holiday resort and safe house for mythical monsters, and then proceeds to fall in love with the his daughter. Dracula, voiced by Adam Sandler, is an overprotective father who goes to great lengths not to alarm his guests and daughter to the presence of an “evil” human in the hotel.

Although criticised for lacking creativity with humour and characterisation, this ghoulish twist on the traditional love story is generally being well received.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days

Currently showing on the cinemas is Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days.

It’s summer break and Greg, played by Zachary Gordon, wants nothing more than to spend the entire holiday honing his gaming skills. His father however will not condone this kind of idle behaviour and so a battle of the wills ensues. Greg's utter determination to follow his original vacation plan, coupled with some serious bad decision-making, lands him in number of awkward situations.

A pleasant watch, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days will not have you clutching your abs in laughter nor mental challenge you but maybe if you’re looking for a light chuckle you may enjoy it.

The Bourne Legacy

Most critics are warning die-hard Bourne fans not to be overly excited.

Other than the revelation that Jason Bourne is only ONE of several undercover super-spies that the U.S. government is eager to kill, the film is generally criticized for having merely recycled previous content.


Nevertheless it has been noted that what The Bourne Legacy lacks in plot originality and clarity, it makes up for in an intense level of energy and drive needed to make a great action film. 

In addition, Jeremy Renner does seem to be a far more convincing depiction of the deadly super-agent, Aaron Cross, gone rogue.


So although The Bourne Legacy may not match up to the calibre of its predecessors, it is a good watch for any action junkie.

Release date: 21 September 2012

A Monster in Paris

When it comes to family animation, Pixar casts a pretty big shadow, but Bibo Bergeron’s A Monster in Paris is reportedly modestly charming audiences everywhere with its “painterly backdrops and sartorially elegant characters.” – timeout.com

Set in the streets of Paris 1910, a lovable flea with a flare for music miraculously grows 7ft tall and is discovered by a pretty nightclub singer. The two form an unlikely duo, and as they perform across Paris, a marvelous romantic adventure unfolds.

Receiving an 82% likability rating on rottentomatoes.com, A Monster in Paris is an easy-watch, recommended to anyone in the mood for a light-hearted adventure.

Release date: 14 September 2012

Katy Perry: Part of Me

Soon to be released in cinemas around South Africa, Katy Perry: Part of Me (3D) gives us a peak into the life of the pop-star and is generally being warmly received by critics online.

Although most comment the film's PR intention being apparent throughout, the rottentomatoes.com does praise the film as being a true testimony of, "...the pop star's genuine likeability, inspiring work ethic and dazzling stage show."

I don't think we can expect an Academy Award winning spectacle but, if you are a Katy Perry fan or just someone interested in gaining a little insight into the highs and lows of the music industry, then Katy Perry: Part of Me would be a good watch for you.