Film Review: The Wrestler

There's always an innate difficulty in writing about films like The Wrestler, when the performance of one outshines the rest of the film to such an extent that you're not entirely sure what to focus your words on; whether you should take the formulaic approach that you've adapted to or spend a good few paragraphs raving about a certain man and his remarkable talents.

In this case the performance belongs to Mickey Rourke who, as Randy "The Ram" Robinson, delivers one of the most wonderfully emotional performances in recent cinema, capturing both the powerful façade and the weak reality of the character with the essence of a true professional. Absolutely dominating every scene, you'll never forget that he is The Wrestler.

Although, once you look past Rourke's performance, you'll find that The Wrestler is a real slow burner. Some of the more potent scenes are superbly paced, but it takes too long to get there, and interlacing these poignant moments with scenes of brawling or in some cases virtually nothing never really fits.

On top of that, The Wrestler doesn't offer any real closure. At first it appears as a typical falling from grace film, as Rourke's Wrester struggles with a heart condition as he tries to claw his way back to the top, while trying to win the affections of his estranged daughter (Evan Rachel Wood) and a stripper (Marisa Tomei). Watching the relationships between these characters gradually evolve over the course of the film is nothing short of fantastic, as they're beautifully emotional, humorous and genuine scenes. Which makes the final half hour of the film, when he systematically destroys everything he's meticulously built up, even more galling, and you may well walk away feeling as if The Wrester has just wasted your time.

The Wrestler will go down as one of those irritatingly ambiguous "cult classic" films. The kind of film that most people will watch with a expression lingering between bemused and tired, while others will hail it as cinematographic genius shortly before attempting a Ram Jam on the family dog. There's undeniable quality here, especially where Rourke is concerned, but it will take an acquired taste to enjoy this inconclusive and deeply unsatisfying film.

3/5

Every time some of the music came on during the film, some middle-aged guy on my row started head banging. I'm not kidding, and it was hilarious. I might invite him to see Slumdog Millionaire and see if he jumps up and starts doing the Bollywood dance at the end.

Tried to make up his own wrestler title and failed miserably - tomdoodle16@live.co.uk

Cheaper Game reviews

A few weeks ago one of the members from block17, skiprat, created www.cheaper-games.co.uk, and he's kindly offered to feature my games reviews on there (which will look a little something like this), so I figured I'd try and do something similar in return and tell you good people about it.

Cheaper Games is a UK based price comparison site. As well as offering a free and accessible price comparison service for new and upcoming games from the best UK and online retailers, you'll also find that Cheaper Games offers up-to-date gaming news from some of the best online sources. So if, like me, you're looking for a new game but you're worried about the weight of your wallet, I'd definitely recommend checking out cheaper-games.co.uk.

I'll put a link up in the side-bar, so that you'll be able to find it even when this had slid down to the bottom of the front page.

Right now that I'm done shamelessly advertising, I'll leave you to it. But seriously, it's an excellent site and comes highly recommended, and it's definitely worth a look in at the very least.

Cheers,

Tom

Maybe I should start writing adverts for confused.com

Might have to start doing actual work soon... bollocks - tomdoodle16@live.co.uk

Game Content Review: Fable 2 Knothole Island

After a few delays, the adventure of Fable 2 can finally continue with the first set of downloadable content; the nostalgically titled Knothole Island. It promised much, but past experience from the original Fable's sub-par additional content raised some doubts among fans. Could Knothole Island reinvigorate Fable 2, or would it prove to be another example of dud content?

Unfortunately, Knothole Island is almost certainly the latter. While the island itself is beautifully designed and intricately detailed, almost everything else about it feels thrown together. Not only do the three new quests amount to little more than fetch quests, but they're incredibly short and all do-able in under an hour. The characters are entirely forgettable, failing to reach the standards of the witty and interesting characters from the main game and a swift reminder of why the skip button was included for non-playable characters wordy dialogue. There aren't even any new enemies to freshen things up.

The technical issues and bugs that saw Knothole Island pushed back over a month haven't been fully ironed out. During the short time you'll be playing the expansion you'll notice that frame rate issues are now much more common both on Knothole Island and in mainland areas such as Bowerstone and Oakfield, even if you've install the main game onto your hard drive. How they've managed to delay it for a month and still not manage to fine tune it despite it's small size is a little pathetic, really.

The only real strong point of the Knothole Island pack is the amount of new toys available. There's an assortment of new clothes, a bulky arsenal of new weapons - including a novelty Halo rifle - and a bunch of augmentations to customise them with. There are even new potions which alter your physical appearance allowing you to gain weight, grow taller, or instantly beautify yourself, making detailed character customisation much easier. You'll also have the opportunity to revive your dog if you gave him up at the end of the main quest, although that probably cheapens two of the three endings a little.

But once you've played around with the new toys, that's it. They're just gimmicks; novelties that don't add anything to the game experience as a whole. They're fun at first but they have the lifespan of a flea, which effectively summarises the whole of Knothole Island.

As the first downloadable content for Fable 2, Knothole Island is a big let down. It's short, repetitive, and not half the expansion that Lionhead cracked it up to be, although to be fair nothing is half the anything that Lionhead will hype it up to be. The only people I can imagine having any interest in this are the ones who bought the limited edition of Fable 2 just so that they could having the satisfaction of wearing Master Chief's armour, because clearly they're the only ones willing to waste good money on in-game novelties. To put it bluntly; even if you enjoyed Fable 2 this probably isn't worth your time, and won't be until they make it free.

4/10

Yes, I know it's short, but what am I supposed to do with an hour long game add-on?

Totally forgot he was meant to review Braid - tomdoodle16@live.co.uk

Game Review: Left 4 Dead

Left 4 Dead is the latest offering from Valve, the acclaimed developer who have previously brought us such gaming masterpieces as Half Life 2 and Portal. With such a remarkable pedigree it's difficult to expect anything other than excellence from Valve, and it was almost without doubt that Left 4 Dead would deliver. I mean; Valve developing a multiplayer game with zombies? What could possibly go wrong?

Left 4 Dead feels like it's been ripped right out of a classic zombie film. You play as one of four survivors, each one playing up to their individual stereotype in the usual fashion, and as a team you'll shoot your way through the horde of infected to reach safety. It's nothing complicated, and certainly nothing deep, but thanks to the four survivors - who feel satisfyingly human and are very well characterised - it's a little more enjoyable than the typical zombie game.

If they'd collectively spelt out "brains" by trampling down the corn, Left 4 Dead would have been the greatest game ever.

With a group of likeable characters, you'd expect Valve to follow up with some excellent gameplay, as per usual. But in Left 4 Dead, they've left most of the gameplay to the so-called "AI Director", an apparently sophisticated programme developed to change where enemies spawn, where equipment shows up, and play around with the sound and visual effects to not only create the creepiest experience, but also the increase the game's replay-ability by changing the experience each time. While it sounds like a fantastic concept, but it never quite seems to cut it. Most of the time you'll find that equipment shows up in the same place, that enemies spawn in the same location and that the AI Director will play the same tricks over and over in an attempt to get a scare. It's not a bad innovation, it's just not all Valve cracked it up to be, and needs a little refining before it's wheeled out again.

Because the AI Director isn't particularly sophisticated, Left 4 Dead's gameplay is very repetitive. Admittedly there are four different campaigns, which naturally include all the generic settings from zombie films but, as well as being very short, each one plays so similarly that you might as well be running down one corridor with interchangeable wallpaper. The zombies are varied enough; besides the cannon fodder zombies there are five other types of zombie, each requiring different tactics to beat effectively, and this is where Left 4 Dead shines. Working together to beat the bigger enemies is one of the most fun and rewarding experiences in a game. But once you've fought a zombie once, you know the tactic for beating them, and at that point Left 4 Dead veers once again into the repetitive.

The tactics for the tank include "run", "shoot", and "die like a bitch".

To break the monotony of the campaign there is a multiplayer versus mode, which is essentially the campaign but from the zombie's perspective. Playing as one of the elite zombies you'll be able to hunt the four survivors, killing or damaging them to score points. While it's not going to fully break the monotony of the campaign, since half the time you'll still be playing as the survivors against player controlled zombies, the opportunity to play as the zombies is well worth it. The only real issue in the versus multiplayer (besides the ones that come with the co-op) is the long respawn time. It's easy to see why the respawn time is so long; having so many elite infected in the game could make it far too difficult for the survivors. But surely there's a better alternative to having twenty or thirty seconds of nothing?

Not even Michael Moore was safe from the infection; he's just been eaten by this zombie John Goodman.

Valve have developed a habit over the past few years of finding an innovation and sticking it to their Source engine. Left 4 Dead carries on that trend, but with the innovation being surprisingly weak, the four year old Source engine is left to pick up the pieces; and the extent as to how dated this engine is really starts to show. It's still competent, but four years is a long, long time in the games industry, and in a game where lighting and shadowing are so important, the Source engine is starting to show it's age. In games like Portal or Team Fortress 2, it's forgiveable; both were released at around a quarter of the cost of a normal game, or as additional content in the brilliant Orange Box. But with Left 4 Dead, a full price game, we should be getting more for our money than an outdated engine and a half-arsed AI Director.

Left 4 Dead doesn't really do anything wrong, and if you're a fan of zombie films or first person shooters then this could well be the title for you. But this still feels like a let down; the engine is dated, the AI Director is predictable, and it's very repetitive, and not really worth the full price it asks for. It's competent, but there are other games out there more deserving of a purchase.

7/10

Good god, I'm finally being controversial. Ooh, I feel all tingly.

Played Queen's "Don't Stop Me Now" during every campaign - tomdoodle16@live.co.uk

Film Review: Slumdog Millionaire

From director Danny Boyle comes Slumdog Millionaire, the story of a contender on the Indian version of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire". But this time the real drama does not lie in the show, but in the amazing back story of the boy who knows all the answers.

The boy in question is Jamal who, being one correct answer from the game's big prize, is arrested for apparently cheating. The resulting interrogation by a police inspector reveals an astonishing story, as Jamal recounts how he, a boy from the slums, knew the answer to every question he was asked. The convenient ordering of the questions allows us to follow his story from his childhood to the present day, as we're treated to the risky misadventures and charming love stories of his life.

Jamal's story offers an unparalleled insight into the struggles and highlights of an Indian slumdog, brimming with incredible moments that may be hilarious, tragic, or anything in-between. But the one guarantee is that, no matter what feeling or emotion Slumdog Millionaire invokes, the result will always be genuinely touching and memorable, and there's no doubt that you'll be infatuated with Jamal's character throughout.

The deep connection we develop with Jamal, and with every other character, is down not only to Slumdog's superb writing, but also the brilliant performances from every actor on show. Dev Patel (formerly of E4 teen drama Skins) puts in a stunning performance as the present day Jamal, nailing every aspect of the character in a truly emotional performance. Freida Pinto, too, was remarkable as Jamal's love interest Latika, especially considering this was her first role in a feature film. And particular praise must go to the child actors, who portrayed the younger characters with undeniable energy and charm. But every actor in this, from the bit part players to the leading rolls, were fantastic, creating a film that has a great energy and life, while constantly maintaining a grounded realism.

Slumdog's remarkable camera work only adds to the already great experience. Despite being mostly set in some of the poorest areas of India, everything looks stunningly beautiful, so much so that the shots of the Taj Mahal almost fade into obscurity among the lively and bustling slums and markets. The flickers of bright colours in these scenes are gorgeous, contrasting the corrugated iron and concrete with a fierce and radiant beauty. But the true genius of the film lies in the music. A blend of authentic Indian and western music, the soundtrack not only captures the essence of the film, but fits perfectly with the scenes, allowing for become one of the most captivating experiences in recent cinema.

What is so refreshing about Slumdog Millionaire is that, come the end, everyone is just so happy. Seeing this kid from the slums go on this magnificent journey, suffering the violence and tragedy of his childhood, finding the girl he loves again and again, and getting covered in all kinds of literal shit, and then having everything eventually work out is just fantastic. If you saw and liked Wall-E, you'll get the same feeling as you did at the end of that. Except amplified several thousand times.

It's early doors yet for 2009, so part of me is thinking that it's a little early to be touting Slumdog Millionaire as film of the year. But I'm going to do it anyway. A genuine, touching and absolutely stunning film, Slumdog Millionaire should not be missed by anyone. It's a gorgeous piece of art, an amazing journey, and a collection of some of the most developed and captivating characters in recent cinema. Truly Brilliant.

5/5

You know what? I feel a bit stupid for not watching Skins now. Bet you're all going to be really smug about that, aren't you?

I've already bought the soundtrack for this - tomdoodle16@live.co.uk

Game Review: Castle Crashers

It's not often that independent games make such a big name for themselves on the 360 but Castle Crashers, developed by The Behemoth for Xbox Live Arcade, has caused a hell of a stir among the community. Naturally, I had to check this one out, and see what all the fuss was about.

Castle Crashers is, fundamentally, a 2D side-scroller. As one of four knights you'll traverse a uniquely styled world, fighting hordes of baddies, on a quest to save some kidnapped princesses. It's as basic as you like, barely changed from the classic side-scrollers of days gone by, but it's a class above the typical Golden Axe pretender.

One reason for this, is the fantastic gameplay. While it's nothing particularly new or original, Castle Crasher's fast paced and accessible gameplay makes it furiously addictive and fun. The baddies aren't particularly varied at first, but as you progress you'll gradually meet bigger, tougher enemies, and the extra challenge offered by these baddies will keep the game fresh and interesting from beginning to end, and several times over after that. And, of course, there's the occasional boss fight to spice things up, and really keep you on your toes. What Castle Crashers does is basic, but it's brilliant, and a tremendously fun experience every time you play.

Blue Castle Crashers get all the bitches.

Castle Crashers also boasts a solid role playing element. As well as a ton of different weapons and creature orbs (essentially cute floating animals that assist you in the game), each with their own benefits and flaws, you'll will be able to customise the skills of each individual character to you're liking, allowing for a different character every time you play through the game. With several extra characters to unlock, and each character having their own unique ability, Castle Crashers has a massive amount of replay-ability, an incredible feat for a game which appears so basic.

As well as the single player, Castle Crashers also offers excellent multiplayer features, supporting up to four players both locally and online. Not only can you play through the story with up to three other players, but there are also versus matches available. Each type of versus tests different skills and styles from the single player, and reflects the same frantic, addictive and fun characteristics that made the story mode so fun. With great versus and co-operative modes, Castle Crashers' multiplayer is one of the most fun and addictive experiences available on the 360.

The true brilliance of Castle Crashers lies in the superb artwork. The style is unique, interesting, and varied, with each character having a defining quality, making them distinguishable even in the hectic multiplayer modes. The worlds, too, look fantastic, ranging from dense forests to desert castles and even alien space ships, all of which are a joy to play through. The defining aspect of Castle Crasher's art style is the humour blended into it, which is brilliantly immature, and really adds to the enjoyment and the experience.

Sometimes it's best not to worry about the beast chasing you, and just laugh at the deer shitting itself.

The only possible downside to Castle Crashers' gameplay is the difficulty level, which quickly increases and you play, and sky rockets during boss battles. Because of this, you might find that you'll be replaying the same level several times over, either for experience or gold, which can become a little tedious when you realise you've stopped making progress. It's hardly a game killer, but it's a minor irritation that stops Castle Crasher from being the perfect side-scroller.

Castle Crashers is a slick, fiendishly addictive game that needs to be experienced by everyone who still holds fond childhood memories of classic side-scrollers. Completely revitalising the genre with it's random humour, superb art style and fun, flowing gameplay, Castle Crashers is a superb addition to the Xbox Live Arcade, and for only 1200 Microsoft Points it's surely a must-purchase.

9/10

I think I've just become an early contender for writing the most outdated review of 2009. And if this doesn't win it: next up, Braid!

Promises he'll try and do a longer one next time - tomdoodle16@live.co.uk

Game Review: Call of Duty: World at War

Call of Duty returns to it's roots with the series' latest instalment: World at War. But with Infinity Ward, developers of the phenomenally successful Modern Warfare, taking a back seat, there were one or two doubts about new developers Treyarch, and their decision to return to World War II. Could World at War silence the doubters, and live up to Modern Warfare's success, or has it taken one too many steps back?

While World at War's campaign has taken a step back in time, it certainly hasn't taken a step back in quality. Taking place during America's Pacific campaign, and in Russia's march on Berlin, the single player touches on scenarios that haven't been touched on by recent World War II games, and with the great diversity in environments and weapons, the campaign will feel fresh from start to finish. And, thanks to Treyarch finally putting in a co-op mode - which was long overdue in Call of Duty - the campaign even has replay ability, something that no other game in the series has really had before. It's another superb effort from a Call of Duty game, as they serve up another rewarding, and addictive, campaign experience.

Every game needs a flame-thrower.

As well as treating us to new scenarios and settings, World at War also allows you to sample the darker, grittier side of war, the side that most of the previous games have sugar-coated with glory and patriotism. This side of war is touched upon in both halves of the campaign, including a fantastically potent opening scene where you'll watch your dead or dying comrades shot by passing soldiers, as you lie back and pray you remain unnoticed. World at War has also upped the gore levels, and while this is occasionally funnier than it is disturbing, there are still moments when it adds a certain perturbing quality to the game, that no other Call of Duty really had before.

The reason for the added gore is probably due to the new game mode that World at War introduces: Nacht der Untoten. Essentially, it's the horde mode from Gears of War 2, you'll fight wave after wave of enemies, testing your skill and endurance. Except this time round, you won't be fighting mere Locust, oh no. You'll be up against hordes of Nazi Zombies, possibly one of the most genius enemies ever conceived. It's a great extra mode to have, and should do wonders in giving World at War a little extra lifespan.

Ever wanted to shoot a Nazi zombie in the face with a shotgun? Well...

What is definitely going to give World at War a massive lifespan is the online multiplayer. After Modern Warfare, Treyarch had a huge job of living up to Infinity Ward's standards, and if anything they've surpassed it. Part of the reason why World at War is better is the same reason why so many people dismissed it: the World War II setting. The guns in World at War suit the realistic weapon damage much better, and while some of the automatic weapons are still overpowered, it feels a little more balanced than Modern Warfare did.

Did I mention there were tanks? Did I mention they were awesome?

Apart from the skin, the multiplayer is essentially the same as Modern Warfare. As before, you'll start from level one, and as you earn experience from killing opponents, winning games and completing challenges, you'll rank up and earn new weapons, perks and other equipment. New perks have been added, and there's finally a purpose to Prestige ranking (allowing you to unlock more classes to customise), but it's more or less unchanged. Which unfortunately means it's still got the same problems that Modern Warfare had.

The problem with the multiplayer is that, despite the weapon changes, it's still unbalanced. While there are a couple of game modes with minimum or maximum level caps, playing anything in-between will put you up against anyone, meaning that you can have two different teams with completely different levels and experience. Treyarch have made an effort to balance multiplayer in other areas; for example you'll get an appropriate amount of points for assists, based on the damage you inflicted, but it doesn't quite do enough. It's a great multiplayer, and incredibly frantic and fun, but a more sophisticated and levelled matchmaking system (see Halo 3) would be appreciated.

While there are some minor issues to be ironed out before the next instalment, World at War is nevertheless a fantastic game, both online and off. Any doubts regarding Treyarch's developer role or the return to the World War II setting will be silenced after the first ten minutes. It's a brilliant addition to the Call of Duty series, and if you're a fan of first person shooters, this is definitely worth a look. You almost certainly won't be disappointed.

9/10

Seriously, there are zombie Nazis. Can you honestly think of anything better?

Ask me about my online kill to death ratio. Please? - tomdoodle16@live.co.uk