Skip to content
The Film Buff

The Film Buff

The Latest Movie Reviews by Hassan Ilahi- a Passionate Film Buff

  • Home
  • Movie Reviews
  • About
  • Contact
  • Rating System
  • Yearly Archive

Tag: books

“The Breakfast Club” (1985) – Anthony Michael Hall’s Captivating Coming-of-Age Classic about Teens

Writer/Director: John Hughes Starring: Anthony Michael Hall, Judd Nelson and Molly Ringwald ‘A Captivating Classic’ Do you remember the time … More

80s, books, film, movies, music

“Knives Out” (2019) – LaKeith Stanfield’s Magnificent Murder Mystery Whodunit

Writer/Director: Rian Johnson Starring: Daniel Craig, Ana de Armas and Chris Pine ‘A Magnificent Murder Mystery’ Murder mysteries are a … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“The Descendants” (2012) – George Clooney’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Family Tragedy

Writer/Director: Alexander Payne Starring: George Clooney, Shailene Woodley and Beau Bridges ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few actors in Hollywood have crafted … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“Dil Chahta Hai” (2001) – Aamir Khan’s Heartfelt Indian Masterpiece About Long-Lasting Friendships

Writer/Director: Farhan Akhtar Starring: Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna and Saif Ali Khan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Friendships are fragile relationships which … More

bollywood, Book Review, books, entertainment, movies

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Ben Mendehlson’s Magnificent Masterpiece About Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Joel Edgerton’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, writing

“Adaptation” (2002) – Chris Cooper’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Hugh Grant’s Amazing Jane Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Matilda” (1996) – Danny DeVito’s Marvellous Adaptation of a Beloved Book About Cruel Teachers

Director: Danny DeVito Starring: Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman and Mara Wilson ‘A Beautiful Adaptation’ Not many actors that achieved fame … More

books, fantasy, movies, reading, roald-dahl

“The Breakfast Club” (1985) – John Hughes’ Captivating Coming-of-Age Classic About Abusive Teachers

Writer/Director: John Hughes Starring: Anthony Michael Hall, Judd Nelson and Molly Ringwald ‘A Captivating Classic’ Do you remember the time … More

books, film, movies, music, writing

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” (2011) – Timothy Spall’s Emotional Harry Potter Farewell

Writer/Director: David Yates Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson ‘A Fantastic Fantasy Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about … More

books, fantasy, harry-potter, hogwarts, movies

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1” (2010) – Timothy Spall’s Fantastic Harry Potter Franchise Finale

Director: David Yates Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson ‘Spellbinding Entertainment’ Few characters in English literature are as beloved … More

books, fantasy, film, harry-potter, movies

“Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” (2009) – Timothy Spall’s Most Romantic Harry Potter Adaptation

Writer/Director: David Yates Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Alan Rickman ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few actors in Hollywood have achieved … More

Book Review, books, fantasy, harry-potter, hogwarts

“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” (2007) – Timothy Spall’s Most Entertaining Potter Sequel

Writer/Director: David Yates Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint ‘A Magnificfent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about magical … More

books, fantasy, harry-potter, hogwarts, movies

“Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” (2005) – Timothy Spall’s Darkest Harry Potter Adaptation

Director: Mike Newell Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint ‘Spellbinding Entertainment’ “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” is … More

books, film, harry-potter, movie, movies

“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” (2004) – Timothy Spall’s Spellbinding Harry Potter Masterpiece

Director: Alfonso Cauron Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about magical … More

Book Review, books, fantasy, harry-potter, movies

Timothy Spall’s Greatest Movies Ranked

Not many actors have the abilities to enthral like Timothy Spall. Since the 1990’s, Spall has become a British icon. … More

books, fantasy, harry-potter, movies, reviews

“The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” (2001) – Andy Serkis’ Fantastic Lord of the Rings Introduction

Writer/Director: Peter Jackson Starring: Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen and Viggo Mortensen ‘A Fantasy Masterpiece’ When it comes to the greatest … More

books, fantasy, middle-earth, movies, tolkien

“American Psycho” (2000) – Christian Bale’s Captivating Classic About Psychotic Killers

Writer/Director: Mary Harron Starring: Christian Bale, Jared Leto and Willem Dafoe ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few actors in Hollywood that rarely … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“No Time to Die” (2021) – Cary Joji Fukunaga’s Fantastic Feminist James Bond Farewell

Writer/Director: Cary Fukunaga Starring: Daniel Craig, Lashana Lynch and Rami Malek ‘Satisfying Swansong’ Brawny beauties are seldom rewarded licenses to … More

books, film, james-bond, movies, writing

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Armando Iannucci’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Joe Wright’s Magnificent Historical Masterpiece About Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“Short Term 12” (2013) – Destin Daniel Cretton’s Moving Masterpiece About Mental Hospitals

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Starring: Brie Larson, Rami Malek and LaKeith Steilfeld ‘A Captivating Classic’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

art, books, mental-health, writing

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Baz Luhrmann’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Adaptation” (2002) – Spike Jonze’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“The Breakfast Club” (1985) – John Hughes’ Captivating Coming-of-Age Classic About Teenagers

Writer/Director: John Hughes Starring: Anthony Michael Hall, Judd Nelson and Molly Ringwald ‘A Captivating Classic’ Do you remember the time … More

books, film, movies, music, writing

“Shutter Island” (2010) – Martin Scorsese’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Haunting Island Prisons

Director: Martin Scorsese Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo and Sir Ben Kingsley ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few actors in Hollywood that … More

books, film, leonardo-dicaprio, lily-gladstone, movies

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Shaka King’s Breathtaking Biopic About Black Prisons

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“No Time to Die” (2021) – Jeffrey Wright’s Fantastic James Bond Farewell

Writer/Director: Cary Fukunaga Starring: Daniel Craig, Lashana Lynch and Rami Malek ‘Satisfying Swansong’ Brawny beauties are seldom rewarded licenses to … More

books, film, james-bond, movies, writing

“The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” (2013) – Jeffrey Wright’s Spellbinding Hunger Games Sequel

Director: Francis Lawrence Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few actresses in Hollywood have achieved … More

books, fantasy, Hunger Games, movies, Suzanne Collins

“The Remains of the Day” (1993) – Hugh Grant’s Captivating Classic About British Butlers

Director: James Ivory Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson and Christopher Reeves ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few books ever published about British … More

books, history, movie-review, movies, reviews

“The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo” (2011) – David Fincher’s Marvellous Mystery Masterpiece

Director: David Fincher Starring: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara and Christopher Plummer ‘A Marvellous Mystery’ Few actresses in Hollywood attract audiences … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, movies, reviews

“Gone Girl” (2014) – Ben Affleck’s Magnificent Murder Mystery Masterpiece

Director: David Fincher Starring: Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike and Neil Patrick Harris ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few actors in Hollywood are … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“Good Will Hunting” (1997) – Ben Affleck’s Captivating Coming-of-Age Classic

Director: Gus Van Sant Starring: Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Robin Williams ‘A Timeless Classic’ Teachers are powerful figures that shape … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Dominique Fishback’s Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, reviews, writing

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Ben Whishaw’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Stephen Dillane’s Meaningful Historical Masterpiece about Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“Short Term 12” (2013) – John Gallagher Jr.’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Mental Hospitals

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Starring: Brie Larson, Rami Malek and LaKeith Steilfeld ‘A Captivating Classic’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

art, books, mental-health, writing

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Jason Clarke’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Millionaires

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Emma” (2020) – Autumn de Wilde’s Astonishing Austen Adaptation

Director: Autumn de Wilde Writer: Eleanor Catton (based on book by Jane Austen) Starring: Anya Taylor-Joy, Johnny Flynn and Bill … More

books, film, horror, jane-austen, movies

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Ang Lee’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Joe Wright’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“The Breakfast Club” (1985) – Ally Sheedy’s Captivating Coming-of-Age Classic About Teens

Writer/Director: John Hughes Starring: Anthony Michael Hall, Judd Nelson and Molly Ringwald ‘A Captivating Classic’ Do you remember the time … More

1980s, books, film, movies, music

My Favourite Films About Writers of All-Time

Not many figures attract audiences to theatres like writers. Since the 1990’s, movies about writers have earned a huge audience. … More

books, film, horror, movies, writing

“Little Women” (2019) – Greta Gerwig’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Strong Feminist Writers

Writer/Director: Greta Gerwig Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh and Laura Dern ‘An Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes to the most … More

Book Review, books, little-women, movies, reviews

“Adaptation” (2002) – Spike Jonze’s Captivating Classic About Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

adaptation, books, fiction, movies, writing

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Ashton Sanders’ Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Peter Capaldi’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Kristin Scott Thomas’ Magnificent Masterpiece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“Short Term 12” (2013) – Kevin Hernandez’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Mental Hospitals

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Starring: Brie Larson, Rami Malek and LaKeith Steilfeld ‘A Captivating Classic’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

art, books, mental-health, writing

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Amitabh Bachchan’s Great Adaptation of a Beloved Book About Millionaires

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, writing

“Adaptation” (2002) – Brian Cox’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Emma” (2020) – Callum Turner’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Autumn de Wilde Writer: Eleanor Catton (based on book by Jane Austen) Starring: Anya Taylor-Joy, Johnny Flynn and Bill … More

books, film, horror, jane-austen, movies

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Rosamund Pike’s Magnificent Jane Austen Literary Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Alan Rickman’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“The Breakfast Club” (1985) – Emilio Estevez’s Captivating Coming-of-Age Classic About Teens

Writer/Director: John Hughes Starring: Anthony Michael Hall, Judd Nelson and Molly Ringwald ‘A Captivating Classic’ Do you remember the time … More

1980s, books, film, movies, music

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Martin Sheen’s Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Tilda Swinton’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Ben Mendehlson’s Magnificent Historical Masterpiece about Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“Short Term 12” (2013) – Kaitlyn Dever’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Mental Hospitals

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Starring: Brie Larson, Rami Malek and LaKeith Steilfeld ‘A Captivating Classic’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

art, books, mental-health, writing

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Elizabeth Debicki’s Great Adaptation of a Beloved Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, writing

“Adaptation” (2002) – Chris Cooper’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Judi Dench’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Kate Winslet’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” (2022) – Edward Norton’s Marvellous Murder Mystery Sequel

Writer/Director: Rian Johnson  Starring: Daniel Craig, Janelle Monae, Edward Norton                      … More

books, film, movies, mystery, reviews

“Jerry Maguire” (1996) – Renee Zellweger’s Captivating Romantic Classic

Writer/Director: Cameron Crowe Starring: Renee Zellweger, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Tom Cruise ‘A Meaningful Masterpiece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, film, movie-reviews, movies, reviews

“No Time to Die” (2021) – Daniel Craig’s Fantastic Feminist James Bond Farewell

Writer/Director: Cary Fukunaga Starring: Daniel Craig, Lashana Lynch and Rami Malek ‘Satisfying Swansong’ Brawny beauties are seldom rewarded licenses to … More

books, film, james-bond, movies, writing

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Jesse Plemons’ Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, reviews, writing

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Hugh Laurie’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Lily James’ Great Period Piece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“Short Term 12” (2013) – Rami Malek’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Mental Hospitals

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Starring: Brie Larson, Rami Malek and LaKeith Steilfeld ‘A Captivating Classic’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

art, books, mental-health, writing

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Tobey Maguire’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, writing

“Adaptation” (2002) – Meryl Streep’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

adaptation, books, film, horror, movies

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Matthew Macfayden’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Hugh Grant’s Astonishing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Imelda Staunton’s Amazing Jane Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“The Glass Castle” (2017) – Brie Larson’s Dazzling Dysfunctional Family Drama

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Co-writer: Andrew Lanham Starring: Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson and Naomi Watts ‘Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes … More

books, fiction, movie-reviews, movies, reviews

“Room” (2015) – Brie Larson’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Traumatized Mothers

Director: Lenny Abrahamson Writer: Emma Donoghue (based on novel) Starring: Brie Larson, Jacob Tremblay and William H. Macy ‘A Moving … More

books, film, movie-reviews, movies, reviews

“Short Term 12” (2013) – Brie Larson’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Mental Institutions

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Starring: Brie Larson, Rami Malek and LaKeith Steilfeld ‘A Captivating Classic’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

art, books, mental-health, writing

“Adaptation” (2002) – Nicolas Cage’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Writer’s Block

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

adaptation, books, fiction, movies, writing

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Daniel Kaluuya’s Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Dev Patel’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Gary Oldman’s Magnificent Masterpiece about Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“Short Term 12” (2013) – Brie Larson’s Moving Masterpiece about Mental Hospitals

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Starring: Brie Larson, Rami Malek and LaKeith Steilfeld ‘A Captivating Classic’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

art, books, mental-health, writing

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Leonardo DiCaprio’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Adaptation” (2002) – Nicolas Cage’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Keira Knightley’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Emma Thompson’s Amazing Jane Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“The Breakfast Club” (1985) – Anthony Michael Hall’s Captivating Coming-of-Age Classic About Teens

Writer/Director: John Hughes Starring: Anthony Michael Hall, Judd Nelson and Molly Ringwald ‘A Captivating Classic’ Do you remember the time … More

80s, books, film, movies, music

“Knives Out” (2019) – LaKeith Stanfield’s Marvellous Murder Mystery

Writer/Director: Rian Johnson Starring: Daniel Craig, Ana de Armas and Chris Pine ‘A Magnificent Murder Mystery’ Murder mysteries are a … More

Book Review, books, film, movies, reviews

“Gone Baby Gone” (2007) – Morgan Freeman’s Captivating Child Abduction Thriller

Writer/Director: Ben Affleck Starring: Casey Affleck, Michelle Monaghan and Morgan Freeman ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few actors in Hollywood are as … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“The Shawshank Redemption” (1994) – Morgan Freeman’s Powerful Prison Classic

Writer/Director: Frank Darabont Starring: Morgan Freeman, Tim Robbins and Bob Gunton ‘A Powerful Prison Classic’ When it comes to the … More

books, film, movies, prison, reviews

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (2010) – Robin Wright’s Magnificent Murder Mystery Masterpiece

Director: David Fincher Starring: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara and Christopher Plummer ‘A Marvellous Mystery’ Few actresses in Hollywood attract audiences … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, movies, reviews

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Tilda Swinton’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Lily James’ Great Period Piece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Elizabeth Debicki’s Great Adaptation of a Beloved Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, writing

“Bright Star” (2008) – Abbie Cornish’s Captivating Romantic Classic About Doomed Poets

Writer/Director: Jane Campion Starring: Ben Whishaw, Abbie Cornish and Paul Schneider ‘A Captivating Classic’ Not many actors in Hollywood have … More

books, film, literature, poems, poetry

“The Queen” (2006) – Helen Mirren’s Magnificent Historical Masterpiece About Queen Elizabeth

Director: Stephen Frears Starring: Helen Mirren, Michael Sheen and James Cromwell ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few actresses in Hollywood have achieved … More

Book Review, books, history, movies, reviews

“Adaptation” (2002) – Meryl Streep’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

adaptation, books, film, horror, movies

“Emma” (2020) – Anya Taylor-Joy’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Autumn de Wilde Writer: Eleanor Catton (based on book by Jane Austen) Starring: Anya Taylor-Joy, Johnny Flynn and Bill … More

books, film, horror, jane-austen, movies

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Judi Dench’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Emma Thompson’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Jerry Maguire” (1996) – Renee Zellweger’s Captivating Romantic Classic

Writer/Director: Cameron Crowe Starring: Renee Zellweger, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Tom Cruise ‘A Meaningful Masterpiece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, film, movie-reviews, movies, reviews

“Shutter Island” (2010) – Martin Scorsese’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Haunting Island Prisons

Director: Martin Scorsese Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo and Sir Ben Kingsley ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few actors in Hollywood that … More

books, film, leonardo-dicaprio, lily-gladstone, movies

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Shaka King’s Breathtaking Biopic About Black Prisons

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“No Time to Die” (2021) – Jeffrey Wright’s Fantastic James Bond Farewell

Writer/Director: Cary Fukunaga Starring: Daniel Craig, Lashana Lynch and Rami Malek ‘Satisfying Swansong’ Brawny beauties are seldom rewarded licenses to … More

007, books, film, james-bond, movies

“The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” (2013) – Jeffrey Wright’s Captivating Hunger Games Sequel

Director: Francis Lawrence Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few actresses in Hollywood have achieved … More

books, Hunger Games, movies, reviews, Suzanne Collins

“The Remains of the Day” (1993) – Emma Thompson’s Captivating Classic About British Butlers

Director: James Ivory Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson and Christopher Reeves ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few books ever published about British … More

books, literature, movie-review, movies, reviews

“Little Women” (2019) – Laura Dern’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Strong Women

Writer/Director: Greta Gerwig Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh and Laura Dern ‘An Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes to the most … More

Book Review, books, film, little-women, movies

“The Fault in Our Stars” (2014) – Laura Dern’s Heartbreaking Masterpiece About Terminal Illness

Director: Josh Boone Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort and Laura Dern ‘A Meaningful Masterpiece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood have … More

books, fiction, film, movies, romance

“Ghost” (1990) – Demi Moore’s Captivating Romantic Classic about Frightening Ghosts

Director: Jerry Zucker Starring: Demi Moore, Patrick Swayze and Whoopi Goldberg ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few actresses in Hollywood have achieved … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret” (2023) – Kathy Bates’ Amazing Literary Adaptation

Writer/Director: Kelly Fremon Craig Starring: Abby Fortson, Rachel McAdams, Benny Safdie                    … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, reading

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Shaka King’s Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Armando Iannucci’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Joe Wright’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Baz Luhrmann’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Millionaires

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (2011) – David Fincher’s Marvellous Masterpiece About Crime Journalists

Director: David Fincher Starring: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara and Christopher Plummer ‘A Marvellous Mystery’ Few actresses in Hollywood attract audiences … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, movies, reviews

“Adaptation” (2002) – Spike Jonze’s Captivating Classic About Anxious Journalists

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

Book Review, books, fiction, movies, writing

“Good Will Hunting” (1997) – Robin Williams’ Captivating Coming-of-Age Classic About Therapists

Director: Gus Van Sant Starring: Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Robin Williams ‘A Timeless Classic’ Teachers are powerful figures that shape … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“Murder on the Orient Express” (2017) – Johnny Depp’s Marvellous Murder Mystery Masterpiece

Director: Kenneth Branagh Starring: Kenneth Branagh, Johnny Depp and Michelle Pfeiffer ‘A Captivating Classic’ Not many actors in Hollywood have … More

agatha-christie, Book Review, book-reviews, books, mystery

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Ben Whishaw’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Stephen Dillane’s Magnificent Masterpiece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Jason Clarke’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Mysterious Millionaires

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Adaptation” (2002) – Brian Cox’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Joe Wright’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Ang Lee’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

My Favourite Films About Writers of All-Time

Not many figures attract audiences to theatres like writers. Since the 1990’s, movies about writers have earned a huge audience. … More

books, film, horror, movies, writing

“Little Women” (2019) – Greta Gerwig’s Beautiful Masterpiece About Strong Feminist Writers

Writer/Director: Greta Gerwig Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh and Laura Dern ‘An Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes to the most … More

Book Review, books, little-women, movies, reviews

“Adaptation” (2002) – Spike Jonze’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (2010) – Robin Wright’s Magnificent Murder Mystery Masterpiece

Director: David Fincher Starring: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara and Christopher Plummer ‘A Marvellous Mystery’ Few actresses in Hollywood attract audiences … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, movies, reviews

“Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” (2005) – Val Kilmer’s Marvellous Murder Mystery Masterpiece

Writer/Director: Shane Black Starring: Val Kilmer, Robert Downey Jr. and Michelle Monaghan ‘A Captivating Crime Classic’ Not many actors in … More

books, film, movies, mystery, reviews

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Dominique Fishback’s Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, reviews, writing

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Peter Capaldi’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Kristin Scott Thomas’ Magnificent Masterpiece About Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Joel Edgerton’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Adaptation” (2002) – Tilda Swinton’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Imelda Staunton’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Rosamund Pike’s Magnificent Jane Austen Literary Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Martin Sheen’s Magnificent Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Tilda Swinton’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Ben Mendehlson’s Magnificent Historical Masterpiece about Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Carey Mulligan’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Adaptation” (2002) – Chris Cooper’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Judi Dench’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Jesse Plemons’ Brilliant Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Lily James’ Great Period Piece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Tobey Maguire’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Lovers

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Adaptation” (2002) – Meryl Streep’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

Book Review, books, fantasy, film, movies

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Matthew Macfayden’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Hugh Grant’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“The Glass Castle” (2017) – Brie Larson’s Dazzling Dysfunctional Family Drama

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Co-writer: Andrew Lanham Starring: Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson and Naomi Watts ‘Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes … More

books, fiction, movie-reviews, movies, reviews

“The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” (2013) – Donald Sutherland’s Superb Hunger Games Sequel

Director: Francis Lawrence Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few actresses in Hollywood have achieved … More

book-reviews, books, Hunger Games, movies, Suzanne Collins

“The Hunger Games” (2012) – Donald Sutherland’s Beautiful Teen Adaptation

Director: Gary Ross Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth ‘Astonishing Adaptation’ “The Hunger Games” is directed by Gary Ross. … More

books, film, movies, reviews, Suzanne Collins

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Donald Sutherland’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Daniel Kaluuya’s Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, reviews, writing

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Dev Patel’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Gary Oldman’s Magnificent Masterpiece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Leonardo DiCaprio’s Great Adaptation of a Beloved Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, writing

“Adaptation” (2002) – Nicolas Cage’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Keira Knightley’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Emma Thompson’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“The Breakfast Club” (1985) – Anthony Michael Hall’s Captivating Coming-of-Age Classic

Writer/Director: John Hughes Starring: Anthony Michael Hall, Judd Nelson and Molly Ringwald ‘A Captivating Classic’ Do you remember the time … More

80s, books, film, movies, music

“Knives Out” (2019) – LaKeith Stanfield’s Magnificent Murder Mystery

Writer/Director: Rian Johnson Starring: Daniel Craig, Ana de Armas and Chris Pine ‘A Magnificent Murder Mystery’ Murder mysteries are a … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part Two” (2011) – John Hurt’s Spellbinding Harry Potter Conclusion

Writer/Director: David Yates Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson ‘A Fantastic Fantasy Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about … More

books, fantasy, harry-potter, hogwarts, movies

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1” (2010) – John Hurt’s Fantastic Harry Potter Finale

Director: David Yates Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson ‘Spellbinding Entertainment’ Few characters in English literature are as beloved … More

books, fantasy, film, harry-potter, movies

“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (2001) – John Hurt’s Magical Harry Potter Introduction

Director: Chris Columbus Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson ‘Magical Beginning’ “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” is … More

books, fantasy, film, harry-potter, movies

“Little Women” (2019) – Meryl Streep’s Magnificent Masterpiece About Strong Women

Writer/Director: Greta Gerwig Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh and Laura Dern ‘An Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes to the most … More

Book Review, books, little-women, movies, reviews

“Adaptation” (2002) – Meryl Streep’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

Book Review, books, fantasy, film, movies

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Martin Sheen’s Brilliant Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, reviews, writing

“Dil Chahta Hai” (2001) – Aamir Khan’s Incredible Indian Masterpiece About Long-Lasting Friendships

Writer/Director: Farhan Akhtar Starring: Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna and Saif Ali Khan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Friendships are fragile relationships which … More

bollywood, Book Review, books, entertainment, movies

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Ben Whishaw’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Ben Mendehlson’s Magnificent Historical Masterpiece About Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, history, movies, reviews, wwii

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Tobey Maguire’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Matthew Macfayden’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Alan Rickman’s Amazing Jane Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (2011) – David Fincher’s Magnificent Masterpiece About Crime Journalists

Director: David Fincher Starring: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara and Christopher Plummer ‘A Marvellous Mystery’ Few actresses in Hollywood attract audiences … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, movies, reviews

“Adaptation” (2002) – Spike Jonze’s Captivating Classic About Anxious Journalists

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

Book Review, books, fiction, movies, writing

“Knives Out” (2019) – Christopher Plummer’s Marvellous Murder Mystery Whodunit

Writer/Director: Rian Johnson Starring: Daniel Craig, Ana de Armas and Chris Pine ‘A Magnificent Murder Mystery’ Murder mysteries are a … More

Book Review, books, film, movies, reviews

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (2011) – Christopher Plummer’s Magnificent Murder Mystery

Director: David Fincher Starring: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara and Christopher Plummer ‘A Marvellous Mystery’ Few actresses in Hollywood attract audiences … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, movies, reviews

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Armando Iannucci’s Delightful Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Joe Wright’s Meaningful Historical Masterpiece About Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, film, history, movies, reviews

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Baz Luhrmann’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, writing

“Adaptation” (2002) – Spike Jonze’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Room” (2015) – Lenny Abrahamson’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Sexual Abuse Trauma

Director: Lenny Abrahamson Writer: Emma Donoghue (based on novel) Starring: Brie Larson, Jacob Tremblay and William H. Macy ‘A Moving … More

books, film, movie-reviews, movies, reviews

“Good Will Hunting” (1997) – Gus Van Sant’s Captivating Coming-of-age Classic About Childhood Trauma

Director: Gus Van Sant Starring: Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Robin Williams ‘A Timeless Classic’ Teachers are powerful figures that shape … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” (2012) – Stephen Chbosky’s Beautiful Masterpiece About Child Abuse Trauma

Writer/Director: Stephen Chbosky Starring: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller ‘Meaningful Masterpiece’ “Why do nice people choose the wrong people … More

books, film, horror, movies, reviews

“Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” (2005) – Val Kilmer’s Marvellous Murder Mystery Masterpiece

Writer/Director: Shane Black Starring: Val Kilmer, Robert Downey Jr. and Michelle Monaghan ‘A Captivating Crime Classic’ Not many actors in … More

books, film, movies, mystery, reviews

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Hugh Grant’s Amazing Jane Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“The Remains of the Day” (1993) – Hugh Grant’s Captivating Classic About British Butlers

Director: James Ivory Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson and Christopher Reeves ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few books ever published about British … More

books, history, movies, tv, writing

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Ashton Sander’s Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Ben Whishaw’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Stephen Dillane’s Magnificent Masterpiece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, film, history, movies, reviews

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Jason Clarke’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Millionaires

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Adaptation” (2002) – Brian Cox’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Joe Wright’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Ang Lee’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

My Favourite Films About Writers of All-Time

Not many figures attract audiences to theatres like writers. Since the 1990’s, movies about writers have earned a huge audience. … More

books, film, horror, movies, writing

“Little Women” (2019) – Greta Gerwig’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Strong Feminist Writers

Writer/Director: Greta Gerwig Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh and Laura Dern ‘An Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes to the most … More

Book Review, books, little-women, movies, reviews

“Adaptation” (2002) – Spike Jonze’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“The Fault in Our Stars” (2014) – Willem Dafoe’s Meaningful Romantic Masterpiece

Director: Josh Boone Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort and Laura Dern ‘A Meaningful Masterpiece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood have … More

books, fiction, film, movies, reviews

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Dominique Fishback’s Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, reviews, writing

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Peter Capaldi’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Kristin Scott Thomas’ Magnificent Historical Masterpiece About Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, film, history, movies, reviews

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Joel Edgerton’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Adaptation” (2002) – Tilda Swinton’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Judi Dench’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Alan Rickman’s Amazing Jane Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Martin Sheen’s Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Tilda Swinton’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Ben Mendehlson’s Magnificent Masterpiece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, film, history, movies, reviews

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Elizabeth Debicki’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Adaptation” (2002) – Chris Cooper’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

books, fiction, movies, reading, writing

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Judi Dench’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Kate Winslet’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Carey Mulligan’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Millionaires

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Carey Mulligan’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Jesse Plemons’ Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, movies, reviews

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Hugh Laurie’s Dazzling Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Lily James’ Great Period Piece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, film, history, movies, reviews

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Tobey Maguire’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Millionaires

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Bright Star” (2008) – Abbie Cornish’s Captivating Romantic Classic About Doomed Poets

Writer/Director: Jane Campion Starring: Ben Whishaw, Abbie Cornish and Paul Schneider ‘A Captivating Classic’ Not many actors in Hollywood have … More

books, film, literature, poems, poetry

“Adaptation” (2002) – Meryl Streep’s Captivating Classic About Frustrated Journalists

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

adaptation, books, film, horror, movies

“Pride & Prejudice” (2005) – Matthew Macfayden’s Magnificent Jane Austen Masterpiece

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfayden and Judi Dench ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to the world’s … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Sense & Sensibility” (1995) – Hugh Grant’s Amazing Austen Adaptation

Director: Ang Lee Starring: Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and Kate Winslet ‘A Captivating Classic’ Few authors in English literature have … More

Book Review, books, jane-austen, literature, romance

“Knives Out” (2019) – LaKeith Stanfield’s Magnificent Murder Mystery Whodunit

Writer/Director: Rian Johnson Starring: Daniel Craig, Ana de Armas and Chris Pine ‘A Magnificent Murder Mystery’ Murder mysteries are a … More

Book Review, books, film, movies, reviews

“The Glass Castle” (2017) – Brie Larson’s Dazzling Dysfunctional Family Drama

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Co-writer: Andrew Lanham Starring: Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson and Naomi Watts ‘Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes … More

books, fiction, film, movies, reviews

“Room” (2015) – Brie Larson’s Meaningful Masterpiece About Childhood Trauma

Director: Lenny Abrahamson Writer: Emma Donoghue (based on novel) Starring: Brie Larson, Jacob Tremblay and William H. Macy ‘A Moving … More

books, film, movie-reviews, movies, reviews

“Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021) – Daniel Kaluuya’s Breathtaking Biopic About a Black Leader

Writer/Director: Shaka King Co-writer: Will Berson Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons ‘Breathtaking Historical Biopic’ Racism has always … More

books, daniel-kaluuya, reviews, writing

“The Personal History of David Copperfield” (2019) – Dev Patel’s Delightful Dickens Adaptation

Writer/Director: Armando Iannucci Co-writer: Simon Blackwell (based on book by Charles Dickens) Starring: Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton … More

Book Review, books, fiction, literature, reading

“Darkest Hour” (2017) – Gary Oldman’s Magnificent Masterpiece About Winston Churchill

Director: Joe Wright Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James and Ben Mendehlson ‘A Captivating Period Piece’ Not many actresses in Hollywood … More

books, film, history, movies, reviews

“The Great Gatsby” (2013) – Leonardo DiCaprio’s Great Adaptation of a Celebrated Book About Doomed Love

Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Few books ever written about millionaires … More

Book Review, book-reviews, books, fiction, literature

“Adaptation” (2002) – Nicolas Cage’s Captivating Classic About Screenwriters

Director: Spike Jonze Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ Have you ever found yourself staring … More

Book Review, books, fiction, movies, writing

Posts navigation

Older posts
Newer posts

Movie Ratings

navigation menu

Follow Us

  • Facebook

Facebook

Facebook
Create a website or blog at WordPress.com
  • Subscribe Subscribed
    • The Film Buff
    • Join 297 other subscribers
    • Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
    • The Film Buff
    • Subscribe Subscribed
    • Sign up
    • Log in
    • Report this content
    • View site in Reader
    • Manage subscriptions
    • Collapse this bar
 

Loading Comments...
 

You must be logged in to post a comment.