Max My Movies: December 2012

'Max My Movies' will be a series of blog posts summarising the movies I've seen each month, since I'm not getting around to individual movie reviews much anymore. I saw a few other film buffs do this type of post and thought it was a great idea for my lazy arse, as there's more chance I'll actually do it. I'm going to post a condensed version at the end of each month, with my thoughts on each film. Release dates are irrelevant, these are just movies I've seen during the month in question, whether it was on TV, DVD/Blu-Ray, my Quickflix discs or at the cinema. Here's what I saw during December.......

PITCH PERFECT
Fans of Glee will love this toe-tapping musical comedy, jam-packed with melodic A Cappella performances. Sometimes too cheesy, but saved by snappy dialogue, a sense of fun and a standout comedy performance by Australian actress Rebel Wilson. 

THE LOVED ONES
Aussie horror/thriller where Xavier Samuel finds himself being treated rather poorly by 'Princess'. Perfect if you like your School Prom flicks with a side of torture. Knives, drills, rock-climbing, a disco ball, an Angelina Jolie-esque goth chick and one very fucked up family. 

DAYBREAKERS
Filmed on the Gold Coast, this mediocre vampire flick stars Ethan Hawke, Willem Dafoe and Claudia Karvan with an unconvincing American accent. Be prepared for blood and gore as heads explode rather hysterically.

THE PIRATES! BAND OF MISFITS
This Aardman Animations produced adventure film is great for kids and grown-ups alike. Consistently smart and funny, my five year old had a great time and was able to follow the straight-forward storyline. Great voice acting by Hugh Grant in the lead role of Pirate Captain.

THE CAMPAIGN
Starring Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis as two very different Southerners fighting for a seat in Congress, this outrageous comedy is just what you'd expect from these two. Silly and hilariously funny.

I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS
Beautifully touching romantic comedy/drama based on the real life story of conman Steven Jay Russell. Reminiscent of 'Catch Me If You Can', but with gay characters. Jim Carrey gives a powerhouse lead performance in this fast-moving, entertaining film that really exceeded my expectations.

WELCOME TO THE RILEYS
If you like your Kristen Stewart grungy, grubby and slutty, you'll love this. She plays a stripper who becomes friends with James Gandolfini's character Doug Riley. They are both damaged, and form an unlikely bond, that helps to save them both. Gritty, dramatic and sweary.

THIS MEANS WAR
This romantic comedy stars Tom Hardy and Chris Pine as two best friends and workmates, fighting after the same woman, played by Reese Witherspoon. It's not brilliant. At least Reese's hair looks fabulous.

JEFF WHO LIVES AT HOME
What a quirky little film. It helps to be a Jason Segel fan, obviously, but this is quite a pleasing film about finding your destiny, some wood glue and a dude named Kevin. The ending moved me to tears.

What's the best movie you've seen lately?