"The Lovely Bones" 2009

An interesting murder mystery starring Mark Wahlburg & Rachel Weisz told through the eyes of its 14 year old teen victim. The film is either enhanced or spoilt depending on your particular likes or dislikes by Peter Jackson's elaborate fantasy scenes. They didn't do much for me but they actually worked quite well to give the film a sort of ethereal quality.

Matt Corby - live at the Heritage Hotel 2.7.10

I've said this before but I'll say it again. Matt Corby is one of the finest singer/songwriters in the country. He is currently experimenting with various musical styles and doing things "his" way. He is the antithesis of comercialism. Resplendent in cut knee jeans and thigh length cable knit beige cardigan, his live set was something to behold. He & his 2 mates meandered through a wide range of musical styles ranging from Sigur Ros to Mumford & Sons, Coldplay and even some blues. Ably supported by People Places - a singer/songwriter doing his first ever public gig and Lanie Lane - a fabulous young lady who sounds a little bit like Katie Steel (Little Birdy) & a little bit like Duffy. In spite of Matt's eschewment of commercialism my prediction is that he will have an "accidental" hit song & his prodigious talent will propel him to the top of the tree. You have been warned.

"The Informant" 2009

Matt Damon stars in what is supposedly a comedy, but we didn't find much to laugh about. Seemed to drag on a bit & the plot development was flawed.

"Invictus" 2009

At first it seems a little strange to see Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela but very soon he becomes Mandela & its on with the show.   I'm a  big fan of Clint Eastwood directed films, so I had high expectations for this film.  Initially it seemed like it was going to be a somewhat bland historical story but no, it was far more than that.  The insight into the mind of one of the greatest leaders of our time and the heartwarming themes of  belief, encouragement and victory mades for rewarding viewing.

"Puberty Blues" 1981

(on FTA) An interesting snapshot of teen beach culture in Sydney in the early 80's pre-facebook era. Funny to watch now, but in reality a sad indictment of the shallowness of some teenagers lives. Features 3 Split Enz songs written by Tim Finn & cameos by Rowena Wallace & the late Bud Tingwell.