September 2nd 2011

Submarine (UK 2010). 96 mins. Dir: Richard Ayoade. Cert 15.

Sponsor: LFS members

The trials and tribulations of being a teenager are the subject of 'The IT Crowd's' Richard Ayoade's first full length feature film. If trying not to appear too nerdy in front of his school mates while attempting to lose his virginity with girlfriend Jordana isn't challenge enough, Oliver Tate is also trying to stop his mother from making a fool of herself with an old flame and wrecking her marriage. This entertaining and amusing film is likely to prompt some 'been there, done that' moments of recognition with audiences.

Starring: Craig Roberts, Yasmin Paige, Sally Hawkins, Paddy Considine, Noah Taylor

September 16 2011

How I Ended This Summer (Russia 2010). 124 mins. Dir: Alexei Popogrebsky. Cert 12A

Sponsor: Dr Roderick J. Orner (Psychological Therapy Services)

This superb psychological drama makes the most of outstanding locations, cinematography and acting to create a first class cinema experience, building from a slow start to an absolutely riveting finish.  It was deservedly voted Best Film by audiences at the 2010 London Film Festival, beating the likes of '127 Hours', 'Black Swan' and 'The King's Speech.'  

Starring: Grigory Dobrygin, Sergei Puskepalis

September 30 2011

I am Love (Italy 2009). 119 mins. Dir: Luca Guadagnino. Cert 15

Sponsor: Helptoday - Fuel Injection Engineers

Something of a personal project for its star Tilda Swinson, 'I am Love' explores the destructive dynamics that beset the wealthy Milanese Recchi family as they attempt to handle the transfer of power in their manufacturing business from one generation to another. The sumptuous production values of this film (every frame looks gorgeous) are matched by high quality acting. 'Dallas' and 'Dynasty' this most certainly isn't.

Starring: Tilda Swinson, Flavio Parenti, Edoardo Gabbriellini