12 Reasons to Watch Steve McQueen's "12 Years a Slave" Movie

After watching "12 Years a Slave" last night we have decided to do a feature on the film and give you 12 reasons as to why you should watch the movie.  So here we go in no particular order:



Director Steve McQueen and actor Chiwetel
 Ejiofor (AP Photo/Fox Searchlight, Jaap Buitendijk)

1. Steve McQueen

   That's right, we start the list with the man behind it, director Steve McQueen.  The British director came across the book for the film after his wife found it while they were looking for a true slave story to tell. His excellent skills set this film up perfectly and he certainly helps make it the success it is.



2. The Storyline

   The unbelievable yet extraordinary  story of Solomon Northup is next on the list.  A true story of deception, death, desperation, despair and pain, it really has it all.  Solomon wrote Twelve Years a Slave in 1853 the year he was reunited with his family.  It is still not known how or where he died.



3. Chiwetel Ejiofor

   Chiwetel Ejiofor was the actor chosen by McQueen to play Solomon and what a choice it was.  He brings an incredible performance and portrayal of Solomon that is near on perfect. The emotions he displays are so sincere and really add to the overall depth and feel of the film.



4. It's Powerful

   Powerful. The whole film is powerful. Whatever way you look at it. A powerful story. Powerful actors. Powerful scenes. The whole film has a essence surrounding that reaches out to the audience and pulls them in.



5. It's More Than Just a Film

   "12 Years a Slave" is more than just a film. It is a opportunity to absorb our past. What we see is not nice but its true.  It is something that should be shown and accepted for the truth it shows rather than just being branded as another film.



6. It's Emotional

   Of course a film of this nature is going to bring up emotions. It will not just have you crying though. The emotion we felt more of was anger. Anger at what we were seeing. We know this was only a film adaptation but it provoked these emotions from within us.  The portrayal of the story and slavery in particular really struck a chord with us and it is because we did not like what we were seeing and knew it was wrong. A film that can stir these emotions is certainly one worth watching.



7. It's a Must See

There is no doubt about it, if you do not see this film you are missing out. It really is a spectacle that needs to be viewed. It will be spoken about for years and there is a reason for this - so go and see it.




8. It Will Make You Think

You will not finish this film and just go back to your usual life without thinking about this film.  It raises too many questions and emotions for you to simply forget.  What is a great movie if it does not do this?




9. Lupita Nyong'o

   Relatively unknown before her portrayal of Patsey, Lupita Nyong'o really steps up to the big screen. Patsey was at the same plantation as Solomon and suffered tremendous amounts of assault, battery and rape.  A sad and tragic life which was quite difficult to watch.  Lupita plays the role incredibly well considering the circumstances her character faced. An inspirational performance.
   
   
   

   

   Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyong'o and Chiwetel Ejiofor
    as Edwin Epps, Patsey and Solomon Northup

    

10. It's Relevant

It has been asked as to why this film has been released now and not years before.  One answer for this is that it is now relevant.  With Barack Obama the President of the United States and people ready to talk about and discuss slavery there is no better time for the film to be released and watched.  Recently we saw the release of "Django Unchained" (2012) - a totally different film that involves some aspect of slavery.



11. It Raises Questions

    You will have tonnes of questions after watching this film and the majority of them will not be answered.  What happens to Solomon? Why was he taken? Was he the only one? These questions cause great discussion and really show the effect this story can have on you.



12. It's Good

    There is no questioning it, "12 Years a Slave" is an incredible film.  One that will leave you speechless. There will be parts that are uncomfortable to watch and difficult to stomach but it is worth it. A real masterpiece of emotional truth.

 

That completes our 12 reasons as to why you should go and watch "12 Years a Slave". It really is worth the time and effort of seeing.  We have also written a full review of "12 Years a Slave" and hope you decide to watch this film.

Fire in the Blood Documentary: DVD Preview

"Fire in the Blood" is a documentary film that will be available on DVD on 24th March 2014.  If you have not heard the story of "Fire in the Blood" then you certainly should listen up. It tells quite an unbelievable story, one in which will make you shudder at the thought of it. You can see our review of "Fire in the Blood" here.

An intricate tale of ‘medicine, monopoly and malice’

It describes the events that have taken place recently that saw Western pharmaceutical companies and governments cause the death of ten million African people and global southerners after 1996 by restricting access to low-cost AIDS drugs. For us this is a story that needs to be told and should be watched by all when it is released on DVD. The documentary last for 84 minutes and is directed by Dylan Mohan Gray. It includes contributions from Bill Clinton and Desmond Tutu. 

The untold story focusses on the incredible team who worked together to stop the 'crime of the century'. Setbacks have occurred though and the real fight for life-saving medicine for all is only just starting. This is a documentary film that needs to be seen all over and needs support as events like this should not be happening in this day and age. You can watch the trailer below which alone is very powerful.

"Fire in the Blood" Trailer

For more information on the "Fire in the Blood" documentary please see the official website here. 

Super Bowl Spots: Transformers 4 and Spider-Man 2 Trailers

Last night saw the hugely anticipated Super Bowl game between Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks with the Seahawks taking victory in a dominating manner. However, for film fans around the world it was not just the match that we were interested in, more the half time Super Bowl Spots. With it being one of sports biggest events it is the perfect opportunity for film advertisement.  You can see a list of all of the Super Bowl Spots here. We are going to focus on two of the trailers that featured at the half time break; "Transformers 4: Age of Extinction" and "The Amazing Spider-Man 2." 

Transformers 4: Age of Extinction

  

 

PREPARE FOR EXTINCTION. That's right - at last we have our first glimpse of the action that is and will be "Transformers 4: Age of Extinction."  In true Michael Bay style, CGI has been used to the fullest effect but lets be honest, would we expect anything different? So, back to the trailer itself, which gives a glimpse/blink of the action at most - so do not look away. We get to see Mark Wahlberg who plays a mechanic and things do not look like they are going well for him; his daughter seems to have been taken as an attack is happening.  We also get to see Optimus Prime riding what looks like a robotic dinosaur/dragon. Watch the trailer for yourself and let us know your thoughts.  Is the reboot going to work for Michael Bay and the Transformers franchise or is it going to be one film to many?

 

 

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 

 

One word - WOW! What a trailer. This really does look like it is going to be one of the better Spider-Man films that has ever been released.  Andrew Garfield reprises his role as our favourite web slinging superhero that is Spider-Man but this time he is up against a much more difficult enemy.  We say, enemy, but really we mean enemies.  Jamie Foxx can be seen playing Electro, an employee of Oscorp who unfortunately inherits electronic abilities.  His anger at being a 'nobody' fuels him to cause havoc on the city.  Not only this, but we also get to see Harry Osborn and  the Oscorp vision of the future; with clips of The Rhino and Green Goblin. In one scene you can also see bionic octopus arms that surely will end up belonging to Doctor Octopus.  With not long to wait, we are certainly looking forward to the release of "The Amazing Spider-Man 2" on 18th April 2014. Do you think this will be the best Spider-Man movie ever? Is it enough to challenge Marvel's own success of Thor, Captain America and Iron-Man?

New 22 Jump Street Poster Released

Yesterday saw the release of the new "22 Jump Street" movie poster. That's right Jonah Hill and Chaning Tatum return to become the funny cops that brought success to "21 Jump Street" (2012).  We are glad they are back and the new movie poster and trailer already have us laughing. 

Hill, who has recently had success with "The Wolf of Wall Street" (2013), and Tatum who was last seen in "White House Down" (2013)  brought many memorable moments in the first film.  The two worked very well on the screen and it looks like the second is going to be exactly the same. 

To see the full size image please head over to Yahoo Movies.

As you can see from the poster, 'They're not 21 anymore' and wielding golden guns they certainly look like they are having a good time.  The cast also features, Ice Cube and Rob Riggle who will reprise their respective roles. We do not know how this one will end but we are already hoping for a 23 Jump Street.  Are you going to see "22 Jump Street?" If so, tell us why, we would love to here your thoughts!

 

"22 Jump Street" Trailer:



The Armstrong Lie Preview - In UK Cinemas Tomorrow

"The Armstrong Lie"  is one of the most anticipated sports documentaries we are going to see this year.  Having been to the Tour de France ourselves and supporting the then 'innocent' and 'clean' Lance Armstrong, we are looing forward to what he has to say. 

Having defended him at every opportunity, having brought books, posters and sports gear that bared his name we were truly let down when the news broke that he had been charged with the use of illegal performance enhancing drugs.  Even more, his arrogance in the Oprah Winfrey interview made us angrier. 

Since then our views of Armstrong have changed but its odd - we do not find ourselves hating him - but we should. What did Lance Armstrong lie about you ask? Everything.  He cheated, he bullied and he deceived us all of everything we believe in.  Yet there is still some part of us that wants to like him. If you have ever watched him on the bike then you will know what I mean. Yes, he was filled up to the brim of illegal drugs (something that we obviously do not condone) but he still was a helluva bike rider. 

Alex Gibney's experience of Armstrong is even more up close and personal. Lance made a comeback from retirement in 2009 and Gibney was on board to do a behind the scenes documentary of the comeback.  All the time though - Armstrong claimed innocence against doping allegations that were re-surfacing.  When he was eventually was charged and confessed, Gibney rightfully said how he felt conned. What would you do? You have just made a documentary on one of the biggest sportsmen in the world to find out that they are a cheat.  We like Gibney's response - demand another interview and then make a documentary on the whole lie that Armstrong told.

"This is not a story about doping, it's a story about power." - Daniel Coyle

We are still reserved in what we feel about Armstrong. Is he still the inspiration that he once was - in some ways I think he is yes. He survived cancer and provides inspiration to many because of this.  However in a sporting context it is difficult, do we just forget? Or do we try to forgive? Or do we hate?

Hopefully, "The Armstrong Lie" is going to leave us leaning towards one or the other.  The film is released in the UK tomorrow (31st January 2014). The trailer already starts our emotions bubbling and we are interested to see how it makes us feel afterwards.  We certainly will be watching it very soon. What do you think? Have you seen "The Armstrong Lie?"

The Armstrong Lie Trailer

We have now watched "The Armstrong Lie" and our full review can be read here.

Out of the Furnace Movie Out Today (UK)

Today marks the UK release of "Out of the Furnace".  Why should you watch it? Well firstly it stars 'The Dark Knight' himself, Christian Bale.  The versatile actor is not the only reason this film should appeal to you though.  Scott Cooper is starting to build a solid reputation as a director and this is the next film he has directed - his first being "Crazy Heart" (2009).

 

"Out of the Furnace" Cast:

Bale is not the only great actor that features in "Out of the Furnace." Woody Harrelson, Casey Affleck, Willem Dafoe, Forrest Whittaker and Zoe Saldana also have parts in the film.  The cast is certainly something that will attract you to the film as well as the films summary. We are yet to see the film ourselves but will certainly find ourselves heading out to watch it very soon. 

Have you seen "Out of the Furnace?" Let us know what you thought.

"Out of the Furnace" Trailer:

Captain America 3? "We Haven't Seen The Winter Soldier Yet!"

If you have been on Twitter tonight you would have seen "Captain America 3" trending worldwide. Your response? "Captain America: The Winter Soldier has not even been release yet!" Well, that would be any normal persons response. Fans of the franchise and especially Marvel fans are already jumping for joy at the prospect of the third instalment even though we have not  yet seen Marvel's Captain America 2 also known as The Winter Soldier.

Directors of the upcoming superhero film, Anthony and Joe Russo are reportedly in talks for the third instalment. This is great news for any fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe as it looks like it will carry on expanding for some time.

 

Captain America: The Winter Soldier Cast

"Captain America: The Winter Soldier" hits UK cinemas on 28th March 2014.  The cast includes Chris Evans as of course Captain America, Scarlett Johansson as Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow, Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury and Robert Redford as Alexander Pierce.  As always Marvel have provided an excellent cast with many actors reprising their usual roles. 

Captain America: The Winter Soldier Plot

The films plot has been generally kept secret as with most Marvel films. However we do know that the Captain will face off against an old threat from the past in The Winter Soldier. He will have to do this while trying to get used to modern day life something that could ultimately hinder him. He will have support from Black Widow and also The Falcon, played by Anthony Mackie.



Captain America: The Winter Soldier Trailer
 

We are very excited at the prospect of a third Captain America movie but first lets get through The Winter Soldier. The trailer shows that it certainly is going to be an epic film and will be a great successor to the first movie in the franchise; "Captain America: The First Avenger" (2011).

Margot Robbie as Jane in Warner Bros Tarzan Movie?

Fresh from breaking onto the big screen with an outstanding performance in "The Wolf of Wall Street" - Margot Robbie is in talks to star as Jane in the planned "Tarzan" movie.  Not only that she is also being lined up to star in "Z for Zachariah" - replacing Amanda Seyfried. Here at M+F Talk we welcome this news. We loved Robbie playing the wife of Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio) in the recent black comedy by Martin Scorsese.

The latest adaptation of "Tarzan" is set to be directed by David Yates who directed four of the "Harry Potter" films.  Off that success it looks like Tarzan could turn out to be an impressive movie with rumours linking the likes of Samuel L. Jackson and Christopher Waltz to parts in the film.

If you have read the book then you'll know "Z for Zachariah" is an interesting story.  The story evolves around a young girl who survives a nuclear war in America.  Chris Pine and 12 Years a Slave star Chiwetel Ejiofor are also being cast in this post-apocalyptic film. 

Here at M+F Talk, we cannot wait for more information to be released about these two films and also look forward to seeing Margot Robbie on the big screen again.  Her performance in "The Wolf of Wall Street" was one to take notice of. She held a good screen presence which was impressive alongside the likes of DiCaprio and Jonah Hill.  

UPDATE: Tarzan 3D has been given an official release date for 2016.

Disney's Maleficent 2014 Trailer - "Dream"

We have just watched for the first time the trailer for Maleficent.  It is known as the "Dream" trailer.

The film starring Angelina Jolie is released in the UK on the 30th May 2014. You will also recognise Elle Fanning from the trailer.  Maleficent is going to be the story of The Sleeping Beauty but told from the perspective of Maleficent.  A subtle twist to the usual story that we all know.  We are looking forward to it as not only does the storylinee intrigue us but  - have you seen that trailer?

 

Angelina Jolie's cheekbones are as prominent as the horns she has on her head but looks incredible nonetheless. The set and graphic design look very promising, along with the first hearing of the accompanying song 'Once Upon a Dream' covered by Lana Del Rey. Del Ray has the voice for covering film scores and she certainly adds to the trailer with her version of the song like she did for The Great Gatsby (2013).

 

You should all be excited for the release of this film and hopefully it will not disappoint.

X-Men: Days of Future Past Film Preview and Empire Magazine Reveal

So today saw the launch of Empire Magazine's X-Men Reveals in preparation for the new movie X-Men: Days of Future Past. Now we are very excited about this upcoming film in the X-Men franchise and as a follower of Empire Magazine on Twitter this has only made us even more excited for the release of the film.

As part of the world exclusive, Empire will have 25 exclusive covers for the magazine. Two of which are directly below.

The left cover shows Michael Fassbender as Magneto and on the right is Mystique played by Jennifer Lawrence. If these covers do not excite you for the release of the film then maybe the other 23 might. You can purchase each of the special edition covers.

As we have said - we cannot wait until the release of this film. If it was not made clear by the title of the film it is going to involve travelling through time. Exciting right? It certainly is as it means we will get to experience both the younger versions and older versions of many of the characters. Most obviously this will be the characters of Magneto and Xavier.  The younger Magneto/Erik Lehnsherr is played by Fassbender while the older version by Ian McKellan. The young Charles Xavier is played by James McAvoy and the older version by Patrick Stewart. That's just two characters and we have four excellent actors. That's without even starting to think about Wolverine, played by Hugh Jackman, or Halle Berry's character - Storm.

Days of Future Past has a huge amount of potential to be one of the better films in the X-Men franchise and one of the best superhero films of the year.  We certainly hope it is better than The Wolverine(2013) which was the last X-Men related film. It hits cinemas in the United Kingdom on the 22nd May 2014 and until then we will be replaying the trailer over and over again.