MOVIE REVIEW: BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN-WESTERN STARS

4/5

Springsteen On Highway.

80 Mins. Starring: Bruce Springsteen. Director: Bruce Springsteen & Thom Zimny. 

Look up with weary revelry from the highways of your drive all night in your top down American muscle on this 66 like hustle and the road map you've been searching for on all these long and windings may just lead you up to the endless heavens. That's where in the middle of this desert deserted Kerouac beat road were you were born to run you can see all the stars that shine like the neon skyscrapers that half awake blink a million miles away. Thats where in the middle of this concrete paved path you'll see these 'Western Stars' and the friend serving as driver and narrator you're riding shotgun with, The Boss, Bruce Springsteen. And boy does the man from New Jersey still have a story to tell on this Springsteen to the American dream. Off from his billion dollar Broadway run in association with the Netflix streaming service that can even turn De Niro into a young 'Irishman', Springsteen leaves New York like R.E.M. said was never easy and hits the open road like Jack for what might be his most personal project since deep in depression and divorce he drove through a 'Tunnel Of Love' with a 'Brilliant Disguise' on 'Valentine's Day'. Navigating the twists and turns of love and life with no more J. Blige drama, but the soul of Dylan introspection trading electric for going acoustic, The Boss of all bosses (sorry, not so much, Rick Ross) Summertime 'Western Stars' set was one of Bruce's best. As nostalgic majestic as the nag that galloped on the amazing artwork. But if you though that was a perfect picture than you key in the ignition ain't seen nothing yet. As revving this project back up to close out with a fork in the road left turn the year and decade he's redefined with his own personal redefinition, Springsteen alongside frequent collaborator Thom Zimny ('Springsteen On Broadway') has made his directorial debut with the 'Western Stars' concert movie. One which going against the mystifying INXS 'Live Baby Live' 1991, Wembley, London stadium show from the amazing Aussie ruling rockers to accompany the 'Mystify' Michael Hutchence lovers tell all documentary film shown on limited screens all around the world, showstopping show these 'Stars' are much more than just gigs on the big screen in concert with anniversary cash grab opportunity. Although the boot strapped, blue workman dream may be denim wearing thin, Bruce reveals his true self in a way we've never seen or heard before from the living legend with the other great American songbook.

Roadside walk into any accompanying, vintage Americana bar on your road and you just may barstool see him just sitting there breaking complimentary nuts like he does the backs and spirits of the demons in his rearview in these ghosts of Christmas past. The 'Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town' singer who has three verses and a chorus in his back pocket for any season or reason, gives you one for the Autumn of your life between the Spring in your 'steen step and the fall were more than you first thought or dreaded just slips through your fingers like the sinks water, as you wash your hands and the face that stares black to you in this bar bathroom's mirror wallpaper bordered by the graffiti of former lovers and Kings who once held a throne here for so long they thought it fitting to carve this proclamation into the foundation forever (did we just romanticise the longest date with the porcelain? Hey, some nights are just like that). All before you offer him another round for one last drink and toast to all he left behind as he hits the stage of an amazing acoustic and beautiful barn befitting for the perfect wedding if you and yours make it that far down the road in Colts Neck, Jersey. But the track by track songs on concert aren't the biggest draw to all this great American worlds stage via the old familiar lane of E Street. It's what inspiringly interlude weaves like a highway in between. Wise words have never been so retrospectively spoken in this nuanced narration, not for his classic catalogue, but the shape of his heart and life that wrote the pages. This may ponder more than you and your lover over what you're having for dinner (who cares...just be with each other), but what's so good about motoring forward without rearview retrospect looking back? The idea that you have no idea where you're heading if you can't remember where you came from is only a cliche because it's as true as the lines in your hands or the shadows that circle around the souls of your eyes. And this one is two coins away from your rights of passage in this life. There's nothing wrong with looking inward to better ourselves to see what we can give out to others. Even a million selling, all American hero like Springsteen can confront his corruptions and wrestle with his demons, because no one's perfect. The only perfection is over your former self, not your fellow man and like a saying as golden as that this true testament would only be the self indulgence of a narcissist if it was just for him. But hasn't Bruce offered us a workman's helping hand and seat in his pooled car all his long and winding life as America's Lennon? From the Jersey boy boardwalk to his first love that he's still singing about...his car. What would he or we (even this writer that still shamefully doesn't drive) on our individual journeys be without it and its romantic metaphors together through this life like the black and white backseat of some late Bob Dylan classics, gunning like a McQueen 'Bullit' away from those suicide machines?

'Hitch Hikin'' like a 'Wayferer' and riding a 'Tuscon Train' to these 'Western Stars' with only the 'Stones' you gave me. Driving fast like 'The Stuntman', 'Chasin' Wild Horses' all the way to 'Sleepy Joe's Cafe' at 'Sundown', before saying 'Hello Sunshine' to a 'Moonlight Motel', 'Somewhere North of Nashville'. 'There Goes My Miracle' with a rhinestone Glen Campbell encore cover. Shot after shot, Springsteen raises it up encore after encore as he barn dances through every track of his new, instant vintage classic with the horse power of a 30 piece strong orchestra and his wife Patti, just a calender after it was just him and his guitar (and of course one more from his baby on the road) like my rifle, pony and me on the stage of stages in the bright lights of the big city. Singing from the same songsheet of the guy who goes three hours night after night (like you only wish you could), giving his all like LeBron James, no load management because (and I'm paraphrasing more than somewhat here), "there could be some kid sitting in the audience, coming to see me for the first time after saving up all their hard earned money, so I can't take a night off." But bordered between these pieces of profound prose from the road is some personal portraits for the perfect photo album to accompany this musical accompaniments journey journal. And from stetson to steed and all that highway lassoing horse power, some classic cinematography imagery that is so moviemaking canon you could tone it sepia, as this roadmap takes us from classic California dreams to U2's Joshua Tree. After the brilliant British, 'Blinded By The Light' love essay to Springsteen's music made for a Elton John, 'Rocketman', Beatles, 'Yesterday' and George Michael 'Last Christmas' tribute year of Britpop blockbusters, Springsteen adds a second cinematic adventure to his legend and the legacy making of a potential second career as a different type of auteur as director. The American West hasn't been this iconic since John Wayne shot the same stuntman Springsteen sings about for a thousand drinks of his liquid supper. And off that one story this book is as open as the road. As this road resonates like your own one heart and soul, pedal to the metal. Even for this writer feeling so good to be home for the holidays in between his travelling tour of the Far East, lost in Tokyo's Translation. Jet-lag waking up hours before everyone else with the morning, putting this film on with the Christmas lights. Illuminating all that's past with nostalgia and the road ahead with a pilgrims hope. In the end this is Springsteen's story and his journey, but like sticking out our thumb down the road it's for us too as he opens the door and with a welcoming hand offers us a seat. At least for the "where you headed", next couple of states of Grace. In the land of hope and dreams the man who once told us, "you'll need a good companion for this part of the ride" is exactly that with his hand firmly on the wheel of the poetry of his runaway American dream. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Springsteen On Broadway', 'Blinded By The Light', 'Rolling Thunder Revue'. 

T.V. REVIEW: A CHRISTMAS CAROL

4/5

Pearced Blinders. 

3 Episodes. Starring: Guy Pearce, Stephen Graham, Charlotte Riley, Joe Alwyn, Vinette Robinson, Jason Flemyng & Andy Serkis. Director: Nick Murphy. 

Peak through your blinders this Christmas at this Guy and the amazing, atmospheric aesthetic of the latest BBC period production in FX is a firework like Fawkes of brooding brimstone in this soot and smog soaked Big Smoke. I ain't saying Bah Humbug at this adaptation of Charles Dickens timeless, classic Christmas story, 1843 novella that's been redone more times than coal in the bottom of your stocking. From Albert Finney, to the 'Scrooged' Bill Murray Christmas and of course...who could forget, The Muppets Sir Michael Caine? But who better to compellingly capture the dark and dank somber setting of someone who doesn't even like Christmas (forget stop believing in it, like you right before you hit your teens like acne), than the team behind the flat caps and lice shaved scalp numbers of the prolific 'Peaky Blinders' Birmingham mobsters fresh off their latest, greatest season in the slums? From 'Locke' writer Steven Knight and the 'Taboo' feeling of executive producer Tom Hardy-joined by the legendary producer of that series Ridley Scott too-who made his surprise, grand return to the blinding, peaked 'Peaky' season this Autumn (Tom that is...not Scott). And as the brown leaves fall frozen like pine who better to pierce into the black heart of this lost soul than your friendly 'Neighbours' star turned 'L.A. Confidential' and 'Memento' actor Guy Pearce? Not to mention the hardest working man in the line of duty this year from 'Rocketman' to 'The Irishman' and so much more this calender and before in Stephen Graham, 'Blinders' own Charlotte Riley and the motion cap, cinematic circus act of Gollum and Caesar, Andy Serkis all dressed up as himself. Like crowds of choirs in chorus standing on your porch outside your door this year, this 'Christmas Carol' will make you sing.

Even if it begins on a bad note. As 'The Awakening' and 'Blood' director awakens this chilling one with all the usual Scrooge hallmarks...humbug and all. No faith. No charity. He won't even give the two coins he took off his passed friends eyes for passage to some beggars...but then again that would be pretty low, even for Ebenezer. And dubbins is dubbins after all. Just ask the motion captured Jim Carrey for the last notable work the night before. He won't even give his best and only employee the afternoon off or the chance to go home early for Christmas. And don't let this Tim get you started on the hard luck of the Tiny one...although he's played perfectly here. In a fall where the British Broadcasting Corporation is bringing all the vintage, classic books back to the small screen with cinematic direction like H.G. Wells' classic 'War Of The Worlds' without Tom Cruise or Jeff Wayne's musical invasion or the new blood of New Year's 'Dracula' to stoke your Stoker fires. Firing on all raw cylinders of realism in foggy old London town, like this one does all the way to the spirited haunting of all the ghosts from Christmas past, present and future with a modern homage that's ahead of its time. This Dickens in this dreamscape landscape is a tense and terrifying tale of two cities, one that outer is a realm, raising world of imagination and the other that is the emotional depths of a man's inner psyche. The fog and frost in the Big Smoke is so chillingly palpable you could even see it hands held out in front of the fireplace and when it comes to the dark dream depths or antagonising protagonist has to trial go through, this series set-up just keeps adding logs. But as the smoke clears on your holiday of buying and wrapping presents after you've finished the late shift invest in this Christmas eve night of a holy trinity of ghosts. And after this night Scrooge is going to believe in ghosts if he likes it, or believes in Christmas not. Telling his trusty hand Bob Cratchit that December 25th is a farce and it's the only day on the calender were people are nice. Being naughty to each other the other 364. Asking why it can't be the other way round like some 'Purge'. You know what I hate to get all Thanos on you but he kind of has a point. But then again people are nice all festive season, or not at all. You know how the holidays can be. The season of giving or not giving a f###. Humbug indeed.

Pearce is perfect as Ebenezer. Giving us the most personal and profound Scrooge yet in a subtle Yuletide story that is powerful in nature and prolific in its timeless power each and every year like coming together around the table like the turkey, joining hands and pulling crackers as we bow our heads. With reptilian hair slicked back and sallow skin in need of something this season can't provide he looks the part, cravat tied in traditional regalia, grubbed out to the grime. This is his best, staring down the barrel of fickle future fates, gypsy or ghost, let this be a warning since his underrated gem of a New Mexico trailer by 'First Snow' (no not also a a Christmas movie, despite the name). He hasn't been this cruelly callous and ugly since his abhorrent and awful 'Lawless' bad. So much so like Adrien Brody he could even play a 'Peaky's' villain...stay tuned, you never know. One guy who for sure could is 'Boardwalk Empire', 'Public Enemies' and 'The Irishman' character actor star Stephen Graham, who from the BBC's 'Line Of Duty', to Channel 4's 'The Virtue' is having the year of his already incredible, hardest working life. And that's before we even get to the movies. And here in iconic chains as the two coins of a jaw dropping Jacob Marley he is a marvel...and even some sarcastic, much needed comic relief. The 'Wuthering Heights' of 'Peaky Blinders' star and Tom Hardy partner Charlotte Riley is legacy making a Lottie too, the gifted actor present this Christmas. And down the hoof cobbled streets of a timeless, time gone by that is even more Downing Street timely these days there's even more talents lurking in the gargoyled shadows. From 'The Favourite' Joe Alwyn as a cracking Cratchit, to the heartfelt, wedded bruised soul of 'Black Mirror' and 'Sherlock' star Vinette Robinson, who was a revelation as Rosa Parks in 'Doctor Who' and her sister. But its a tale of two butlers, 'Mirror', 'The League Of Extraordinary Gentlemen', 'Jamestown' and 'Pennyworth' actor of atmospheric character Jason Flemyng and forthcoming Alfred in 'The Batman' legend Andy Serkis that really bring a gold standard under gaslight to this side of the street that is the closest flickering light to hold a candle to Dickens. The latter adding more legacy to the legend of his virtuoso versatility. What a time just shy of the eve of entering the roaring twenties again to take it right back to almost two centuries past. From the cradle of our own ignorance, to a grave moment today were we shouldn't ask forgiveness in a time that demands it...but earn its genuine redemption instead. And by the coals of this fireplace, these ticking hands crawl spine shudderingly sinisterly. All the way down to the ominous chimes of the midnight hour were the shadows and echos stir. And on this, twas a night before Christmas conclusion, with not a creature stirring...not even a mouse thrown out a window, we say happy holidays to you and yours. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night. Don't let the ghosts of Christmas past like the cold bite. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Peaky Blinders', 'Taboo', 'Scrooge'. 

REVIEW: PARASITE

4.5/5

Classpiercer. 

132 Mins. Starring: Song Kang-Ho, Lee Sun-kyun, Cho Yeo-jeong, Chang Hyae-jin, Choi Woo-shik & Park so-dam. Director: Bong Joon-ho. 

'Roma' roaming its way to surely the Academy Award for 'Best Foreign Film' at the forthcoming Oscars that has Netflix ('The Irishman', 'Marriage Story', 'Dolemite Is My Name', 'The Two Popes') dominating an otherwise dry award season, with his powerful 'Parasite' acclaimed 'Snowpiercer' director Bong Joon-ho (who gave the streaming service the outstanding 'Okja') gives us not only the Cannes most talked about film out of South Korea this year, but the worldwide best of 2019 outside being born 'Once Upon A Time...In Hollywood'. It may not be released in the U.K. until the February award season of the new year, but then again it did take long enough for the 'Snowpiercer' train to make it to the station like platform nine and three quarters (maybe it was because the definitive dystopian blockbuster had something to do with Chris Evans himself, Captain America eating babies? I don't know I'm just spit balling ). But the kitchen knives are out now this writer has watched this perfect picture of class war and divide with subtle symbolism like crawling to the first class, front carriages of 'Snowpiercer' on a plane home for the holidays from the Far East this Christmas. From off Broadway to the West End you could make this into a stage production the storytelling is that sharp. Korea like many (holds up passport) if not every nation (you too America) is a nation divided. From the North and South political peril, to even the one that exists in entertainment. With epidemic levels of suicide in young performers and even young people everyday looking up to these idols or inward to their own lives. Trolling and high standards of pressure and conformity cloaking their artistic expression being one of the main perpetrators to blame without a face, hidden like us all behind a screen. For every BTS and KATIE success story, there is a Sulli or her close friend Goo Hara tragedy (rest peacefully). Further reason why writing hateful comments hiding behind a screen-that includes "liking" or sharing something clearly aimed at somebody-is one of the most dangerous and insidious things you can do to someone's self-esteem and how they view their lives. And one of South Korea's most expressive and epic, amazing artists is 'The Host' director Joon-ho and one of its biggest divides from Seoul to Busan and every other place that calls it home is the have rich and the poor have not. Like the garden arrangement of this movies banner of black, blocked out eyes like something out of the big brother, digital 'Aesop Fable' fearmongering of the reflective shimmer of 'Black Mirror'. From the high rises to the slums soaked, drowning under the sidewalks of piss and trash literally. You can practically see it if you just pick up your dragged feet and for once take a look down at what you're inadvertently or ignorantly walking all over.

Illuminating their faces like they've just discovered the Holy Grail or what's inside Vincent Vega's briefcase, our two young leads camber up top a cramped and dingy ledge above their toilet in the no one should have to share this bathroom, huddled together all to get...a few bars of a WiFi signal. It says it all really...to all of us. It's the first of many hidden highlighted visuals in Bong's magnum opus of masterpieces from Native American headress dress-up to the bleak blackness of bunkers that literally look like the dungeon depths of hell. Plunge into this and you will see the premise from go as this family living in 'Shoplifters' (it's biggest and best foreign film competition this award season Oscar) squalor stack pizza boxes like Domino's ready for the all to fall as they hope to fold them into Won won for their wallets in their back pockets like their last hope and prayer. But that's all about to change like the spare they never beg for but borrow like another day on the breadline. After a far more Muji clean dressed successful friend comes to visit with a wooden box that looks either like a Vega Holy Grail or a coffin, containing a rock that's going to symbolically do more than way down this family like the mountains out of molehills it looks like it makes and moves with. We've all recommended a friend a job. But how about the whole family? And all in a manipulating, playing host way that's as insidious as that movie is scary. Framing try it way to the family portrait of the others that is really a sabotage rooted in self...or at least all the toxic two point four selfish ways. And this subtley so is truly terrifying as it is taught and tense. That's basically the set-up. But in the age of avoiding 'Star Wars' spoilers like fans want to 'The Rise Of Skywalker' (don't. Perhaps with our arms folded we are just really spoilt), we don't want to give the punchline of this black comedy away...or even how its dynamically and definitively delivered. Because every twist and turn will leave you with somewhere you could have never got guessing in this game of class thrones. But let's just say with everything these days phones come into play for something so heart, back and neck breaking you're going to wish the battery was the only thing flattened. As the stakes rise along with the set-ups and set-pieces that will either leave you looking away or nodding in approval depending on your class of person this would be perfect for an episode of the comedy 'Frasier', if this enigmatic, compelling piece of art wasn't so f###### frightening.

Genius. In this social media swiped saturating age by the application of our phones that dictionary definition of a word gets thrown around truly too much these days. But definitive Korean director who made the better 'Mother' movie Bong Joon-hun really is one to the moviemaking world. Just like Song Kang-Ho is a legend to the acting one. As Bong brings out the best of his reunion with the 'Snowpiercer' star like turning an addiction into an explosive. The look of depression, desperate dispondency on the best 'The Taxi Driver' actor since that 'Irishman' De Niro speaks more volumes than subtitles and you don't need any CGI to see it. Whilst opposite the ivory picket fence 'White Tower' of the 'Coffee Prince' husband he's taxi driving around in the oil slick, but perfectly personable, just from different worlds Lee Sun-kyun is the perfect parallel. This is what makes this 'Parasite' to your empathetic audience a villainless and even victimless affair unlike the hit 'John Wick' meets 'Atomic Blonde' first person action flick hit. Just like the 'Concubine' worrying mothering of 'The Servant' and true star Cho Yeo-jeong and the back breaking one of Chang Hyae-jin. But here it's the kids that are alright even if they are glued to their phones like the mice to the sticky traps. From Seoul Station classic zombie off the rails ride, 'Train To Busan', Korean-Canadian star Choi Woo-shik truly excels in what feels like his coming of protagonist age picture. Whilst in the family framing business the scene stealing 'Underdog' actress Park so-dam is the ace and plan B up this 'Parasite' scratching sleeve. She truly takes the cake in this biscuit tin taking dramedy that's all about those two faces of bitter comedy and Gods laughing plan tragedy. Now you don't need to tap into more code to get lost in the translation of this one. You only have to watch the original 'Oldboy', or the latest 'The Handmaiden' tale to see that there is so much soul from the place that Seoul is the capital of, but it really has been the year of South Korea from 'Map Of The Soul', to the Netflix 'Persona' miniseries of different stories all starring singer Lee Ji-eun Aka I.U. But none gets to he heart of our personal socio-economic and dark soul than this first Korean and first since 'Blue Is The Warmest Colour' Cannes unanimous Palme d'Or winner, map of the web wide world today. 'Parasite' is an itch that will get under your skin like an extraterrestrial Scarlett Johansson movie, but sadly nothing feels alien about this movie today. Even the shocking guess whose coming to the dinner party ending that has been pressure cooking since the slow burning start. There's no organism that attaches itself to you like this...not even the lovable, vegan converting 'Okja'. This 'Parasite' has already burrowed and been living inside us for years like not only one of the greatest films of the calendar, but best of the decade too. Nothing we can do about it now. It's already here . TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Snowpiercer', 'Okja', 'Shoplifters' . 

REVIEW: STAR WARS-EPISODE IX: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER

3.5/5

The Last Hope.

147 Mins. Starring: Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong'o, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Joonas Suotamo, Kelly Marie Tran, Naomi Ackie, Billie Lourd, Keri Russell, Richard E. Grant, Ian McDiarmid & Billy Dee Williams. Director: J.J Abrams.

Help me J.J. You're my only hope. What a time to be alive in hyperspace. Right now the generations-from big-screen cinema to home movie screenings on your mobile phone-can watch the final decades in the making, concluding sequel to the 'Star Wars' saga, 'The Rise Of Skywalker' and still get home in time to stream Fridays penultimate episode of a Star Wars story 'The Mandalorian' on Disney + (I remember up until the new millennium we "just" had a 'Godfather' of geeks like trilogy and then...erm pod racing and Ja Ja (me so sorry)). Unless you live outside the U.S. that is. But you know us, we'll Jeff Goldblum find a way anyway like wanting to watch his 'World According To' series on the Mickey Mouse streaming service that wants you to chill with 'The Irishman' and 'Marriage Story' Oscar contending Netflix. Oh wait...Chapter 7 was released two days early. Hey you get the idea. But how is it that even here in the U.K. you can't legally stream Mando, but yet you can part with your money this Christmas wish list for the walking meme spoiler and the cutest thing out of this planet this side of Disney and Marvel's 'Guardians Of The Galaxy' Baby Groot, Baby Yoda merchandise? Is that right? Is your Robin Hood watching in turn? Is Mickey having a white gloves hands over mouth laugh? I know Rian Johnson is. In a time were Adam Driver is receiving more Academy hype for a fall film with a recently controversy courting Scarlett Johansson (we love the 'Black Widow' who can even make a role in a movie out of a dead character regardless) than his iconic, dark sith lord of lore, the much maligned director of 'The Last Jedi' (confusing but still conceptually sound) has his 'Knives Out' with a 'Murder On The Orient Express' like mystery with James Bond playing Poirot. One that is choo-choo, all ensemble aboard heading like a runaway train to the Oscars at the same time the awakening force of 'Star Trek' energized reboot director J.J. Abrams is brought back to steady this Millennium Falcon ship that 'Looper' and the greatest and most heartbreaking LCD Soundsystem music video director (the outstanding 'Black Mirror' or 'Electric Dreams' like 'Oh Baby' with David Strathairn and Sissy Spacek) rocked. I guess your movie living well and better really is the best revenge...served as a Winter season dish cold. But "that's not a knife", you know the only thing that can cut quicker is a sword like jagged neon light saber. VROOM!

Is this the hype you are looking for in the final, epic conclusion to a half century of genre redefining moviemaking for the science fiction canon? Or like a Marvel movie like Scorsese said is this more like a theme park roller-coaster for your 'Galaxy Edge'? Is this all Rian's fault in more ways than one? Or is the chrome Gwendoline Christie like dome of 'The Mandalorian' taking away all the 'Skywalker' shine like that being jealous of the second child being thrown up and played with meme (maybe that's why the Disney A+ shows regular schedule programmed Friday like film release got changed. 'Skywalker' just didn't want that smoke)? This was always going to make that conglomerate Disney cash money, but will it just sort of be there this Christmas as a present distraction with nothing on the first formidable force like the cold front of 'Frozen 2' this fall? Or was it even always set up to be a feline flop like the cinema stage of a critically clawed 'Cats'...which honestly from the first trailer looked like the world's most terrifying movie...and this is a writer who never used to like scary movies? 'The Last Jedi' may have you wary for this last movie, but worry not Jedi. Safe hands this is in. You don't have to lackadaisically toss an iconic light saber over your shoulder and off a mountain to ruin one of the hood revealing biggest, literal cliffhangers in classic cinema history this time Luke. 'The Rise Of Skywalker' ascends like a soaring and swooping falcon (salute to new Captain America for Disney, Anthony Mackie) with 'Chucky' and The Joker himself Mark Hamill's iconic narrating foreboding over the terrific trailers. But will his spirit be a force awoken here like a beautiful remake of 'A New Hope'? Take one last look sir, as the 'This Christmas' credits turn into view from a galaxy far, far away...at your friends. You've never had any like them you scruffy nerd herder. Harrison, Mark and Carrie, almost like a sci-fi Beatles fab four. And now your new big three in Daisy, Oscar and John. Otherwise known as Finn, Poe and Rey.

Retiring to Skywalker ranch the legacy making three belong with the legends now. Daisy Ridley's Rey is the Emma Watson Hermione of this ray gun instead of wand fantasy franchise. She's that role model legendary. Like homaging both Cary Grant in 'North By Northwest' and Heath Ledger's "HIT ME" Joker in 'The Dark Knight' in a run more iconic than top gun Tom Cruise's. This is her moment in a bond that transcends literal space with an amazing Adam Driver. Sith going to more 'Marriage Story' war with his Knight of Ren classic chess pieces and yet another perfect performance of power were in the same month he becomes a blockbuster legend and an Academy one for the biggest franchise and Oscar movie of the year without flipping a page of the calendar. Oh...and the guy with a fetish for Darth Vader's helmet (steady) has fixed his own cult one for that iconic voice, finishing what he started with not so subtle symbolism. But ever since he passed the lightsaber after one cut a jagged edge down his back, John Boyega has never let anyone break his. Standing by our heroes side with his own heroism and that Palpatine palpable energy that's been on display ever since the 'Attack The Block' cult hero went viral to his also Cruise sofa jumping reaction to the very first trailer to his very first 'Star Wars' trailer. And what Finn FN-2187 shares with rookie of the year franchise newcomer Naomi Ackie takes a much more deeper and subliminal shot at service from these armour looking droids that you should never underestimate with R2 and BB8's new Wall-E like show stealing friend (oh and on that note a best in nine Anthony Daniels' C-3PO gets all the best android lines here like a 'Rogue One'). Don't misunderstood what people took as a shot at Kelly Marie Tran who is back and better than ever with him and a whole fandom behind her. And let's hear it for 'Inside Llewyn Davis' indie best actor Oscar Isaac still in the Academy of chasing DiCaprio's blockbuster crown, as a Han hot shot pilot trying to romance the stone like the gold visor of a scene stealing 'The Americans' star Keri Russell suited and booted up in the best costume of this film...get Hall H ready for the cosplay. But who needs ex X-Wing pilot Poe flying the falcon when Finnish 'Wookie Of The Year' Basketball star Joonas Suotamo honouring the late Peter Mayhew's Chewbacca roar has an old friend at home riding shotgun? No not him, but someone close to Han...betrayal or not. We haven't seen him since '83 and now 83, Billy Dee is back as swagger, canary drip cool as Childish Gambino, Donald Glover's 'Solo' tribute act as Lando. Everything...you've heard about him...is true. All of it Han. Add a legendary laugh of Ian McDiarmid's evil Palpatine in need of even more sunscreen (side note I've never really cared for the villain with worse skin than Bryan Adams and me) and almost everyone is back in this cockpit to throne one last flight like the voice of 'Black Panther' star Lupita Nyong'o. I KNOW!

Sadly it's just a shame like Mayhew our dear, late, great Carrie Fisher Queen can't be. Although not exactly, as footage left over from 'The Last Jedi' with 'Fast and Furious' Paul Walker honouring precision allows us to see the last of this icon and conclude her story the honest and respectful way that serves both story and star. Her daughter Billie Lourd back and coming of age and stage must be so proud, like Carrie looking down at her own will be in return. This yet again a beautiful tribute and testament to a franchise that's underlining force is all about family. Its not just fan service, but the honouring of anyone who ever gave their heart and soul to this war of the out of this worlds saga of stars. From every light saber stream crossed like an X-Wing, lightning struck in the hard rain like a Django duel, or flipped open like a walking stick...old Darth Maul would be peanut butter and jelly (but I'm sorry the only cameo you get of him is communicated through the critically and criminally underrated 'Solo', as good as another Joker 'Fallen Order' starring video game like 'Rogue One'), this is the reason you munch on popcorn during the power of movies. As soon as John Williams iconic score comes into conductor wand dropped play a force like warmth surges through your body until all your hair stands on end in unison to the ovation of the opening credits climb...even in Kanji. Even in the subtitled Japanese cinema this writer watched this force formidable finale in, the women crying next me even in some of the smaller moments showed this saga after all this time and all its been through around the world could never be lost in translation or space in its cinematic time continuum. With a monumental task of not only fixing 'The Last Jedi's' confused clusterf### (he also fixed his own problem by bringing the true thespian out of Domhnall Gleeson's over acting. Brought back down to the natural talents earth here alongside the 'Can You Ever Forgive Me', Academy Award nominated legend Richard E. Grant), but also concluding the story of a saga a century in the making, J.J. Abrams has reawoken a force. An entertaining, emotional, engaging, epic end to this space opera. Part by part it was always going to be the second best trilogy of this ninth wonder. No Jedi mind trick or more reason to have a bad feeling about this. May the force finally be with you...always. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens', 'The Mandalorian', 'Star Trek (2009)'. 

REVIEW: JUMANJI-THE NEXT LEVEL

3.5/5

Level Up.

123 Mins. Starring: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Kevin Hart, Karen Gillan, Jack Black, Nick Jonas, Awkwafina, Alex Wolff, Morgan Turner, Ser'Darius Blain, Madison Iseman, Colin Hanks, Rhys Darby, Danny Glover & Danny DeVito. Director: Jake Kasdan.

Shall we play another game? Or are you bored? No way! Between The Rock and a Hart place again, the 'Central Intelligence' chemistry set of Dwayne Johnson and a Kevin smaller than the one that gets left home for the holidays is back for another roll of the dice. Or should we say thumb of the joystick? As after dusting off the 1995 Robin Williams classic 'Jumanji', just when you thought no one could play with that genius genie like an actually animated Will Smith in this year's live action 'Aladdin' remake, the 'Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle' reboot (if you're going to name a jungle book like movie you may aswell name it after a Guns N Roses hit) flipped the 90's golden era board game to a video one for the iPhone and iPad, swipe left generation. And it was a genius, meta magic movie (not like other reboot franchises as self aware as salad in your teeth), albeit more like a cheat code than a chess one. But still more of an actual sequel than reboot, or the 'Zathura: A Space Adventure' spin-off from the same world of Chris Van Allsburg children books. Even paying tribute to the late, great Robin like his last appearance in the 'Night Of The Museum' trilogy that like a 'National Treasure' shares CGI DNA with this franchise. 'Welcome To The Jungle' was all laugh and cry, hilarious and heartfelt fun and games. Even if this writer clearly playing with himself (wait...no...not like that) only watched this movie last week...not having long to wait for his new favourite fantasy franchise with this family film and holiday movie. And now with this welcome back to the jungle of the same forest 'Jurassic Park' was filmed (but this time it's ostriches that are flocking this way), the cartridge is slot back in the console again for your bonus round, 'Jumanji: The Next Level'. Continue? 9...8...7...6...

Dum-dum-dum-dum (no not Dum Dum off 'Night At The Museum). Jungle drum roll please. Choose your Avatar like James Cameron finally getting round to all those sequels. First you have what The Rock is cooking...or smouldering (*shudders*...in a good way. Not the way women do when I ask them out). And the animal 'Rampage' of 'Skyscraper' high star and the next Schwarzenegger last action hero for what like the string vest of 'Die Hard' is a Christmas movie home for the holidays, Dwayne Johnson is yet again having the year of his life. As the 'Fast and Furious' star has his own new franchise vehicle 'Hobbs and Shaw' with the 'Meg' of Jason Statham in the same spin-off lane. And with his own 'Journey 2: The Mysterious Island' sequel, 'Hercules' action Johnson, 'Baywatch' reboot lifeguard and forthcoming DC 'Black Adam' superhero is at his best yet on-screen. Forget "merely" being the most marketable. Sending up himself and everything else to hilarious effect. All whilst kicking ass in a family friendly, funny way that gives everyone three lives and full health bars again...no matter how many walls they get Superman thrown through. This mountain of a man and titan of a talent and this sequel could even go to war with 'The Rise Of Skywalker' this Christmas, beating 'Star Wars' like the Disney + of 'The Mandalorian' series (and they didn't even need a Baby Yoda to do it...just a lil' Kev) with a movie that is as December 25th as the string vest of original action man Bruce Willis' 'Die Hard'...with a vengeance. But like Samuel L. Jackson in that classic sequel this thing works best as a two player with the 'Ride Along' of the charismatic chemistry of 'Central Intelligence' and 'Hobbs and Shaw' (we can say that now right?) co-star Kevin Hart as they spit at each other like the camels they "let's ride". Call him irresponsible, but the 'Seriously Funny' stand-up (even if it is on a stool) Netflix king of comedy is as hilarious as ever...and again then some. Blowing up as he has his cake and eats it. Coming back from defying death in a car accident to breathing new life into this sequel. Because the real treat and trick of this movie is all in the character selection as this 'Next Level' has you switching avatars like when you used to try and play like you where 6'11 with cornrows and not 120 pounds and thinning follically when you used to be able to create your own player in NBA Live (it is NOT in the game)...no? Just me? As the 'Lethal Weapon' and 'Twins' of respective Hollywood legends Danny Glover (never too old for this s###) and Danny DeVito (please say he's in 'Space Jam 2' LeBron) get their hands on some controllers too. The Danny boys giving the heart and soul to a film and franchise that knows how to play with our emotions, but genuinely so (it hasn't been this fun and warm for the elder statesmen since the geriatric hangover of 'Last Vegas'). Plus The Rock's hard of hearing place and a slow to a syrupy crawl Kevin Hart's impressions of DeVito and Glover with respect are as iconic as they are inspired. Quit playing now.

Gamers hold on to your joysticks as there's more character switching than Tekken for this immortal Kombat. Which shows just how crack this class cast are the second go round at playing each other and chest thumping reading their strengths and weaknesses like a digital book for this body swapping classic comedy schtick. There's more to this movie just like there are to the "human" characters of Alex Wolff (so much nicer than he was in 'Patriots Day'...but what a performance), the 'Wonderstruck' Morgan Turner, the Fridge built Ser'Darius Blain and the Jack White 'Goosebumps' of Madison Iseman who are more than the humanity, but the touching soul of this handle. But leave the ass kicking to the Nebula of 'Guardians Of The Galaxy' (still hearing her anti-hero voice for the most complex Marvel Cinematic Universe character is chilling) and 'Doctor Who' star Karen Gillan who "ooooh baby I love the way" is no one's sidekick or bare midriff stereotype, but one of the best and brightest of this generations role models and own individual talents. She and 'School Of Rock' legend Jack Black, back on that Tenacious D form of his life. Rocking like his White Yin/Yang namesake. Reuniting with 'Orange County' dynamo director Jake Kasdan (the Cameron classic 'Bad Teacher' and 'Sex Tape' Diaz) and Oh.my.god.so.funny.as.a.teenage.girl.and.anyone.else.he.gets.to.impersonate.like.seriously steal the show. That is when a welcome back Nick Jonas isn't making you 'Jealous' like his infectious single or the "if the Jonas brothers can make a comeback so can your hairline" Twitter trend (I wish). Or a Black Beauty of a horse isn't galloping away with said show like Pegasus. And we haven't even got into how good rapper slash actor, 'Crazy Rich Asians', 'Oceans 8' and forthcoming 'Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings' Marvel Awkwafina is...she's amazing, especially in switching characters and portraying their characteristics perfectly...oh and the comedy great is probably on her way to her first dramatic acting Oscar for her 'Farewell'. All this and the cut sequence of 'Yes Man' scene stealer Rhys Darby is back to introduce you to the game my fond friends. All this and the cut sequence of 'Yes Man' scene stealer Rhys Darby is back to introduce you to the game my fond friends. All this and th...you get the idea. And then of course there's Colin Hanks who brought happy tears and a baby stroller to the end of the first film. The son yet again proving to be his own man for this beautiful day in a New Hampshire white picket fence neighbourhood as American as Rita Wilson or the SNL sweater crowned "America's dad" leaving apple pie on the window sill to cool...if anyone even does that anymore. All for the Canadian rocky landscape to John Wick 'Parabellum' desert of kinetic, boss level action of Ostriches flocking this way and 'Ad Astra' Mandrills on 'Pirates Of The Caribbean' rope ladders for a game that has to be turned into an interactive theme park ride one day. And even though the characters vow to never go back to this game again like you promise to your girlfriend after the fifth FIFA match, some post credits that even look to take a running start at the old 'Jumanji' game platform plays you trilogy different. They've all got the credits. Why not press go now? And at this point, winner stays on we can't wait for another turn. Play again? JUMANJI! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle', 'Central Intelligence', 'Night At The Museum'.

REVIEW: MARRIAGE STORY

4/5

'Til Life Do Us Part.

136 Mins. Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Adam Driver, Laura Dern, Ray Liotta, Julie Hagerty, Merritt Wever, Azhy Robertson & Alan Alda. Director: Noah Baumbach.

Do you Adam Driver take Scarlett Johansson to be your lawful wedded wife? To have and to hold. In sickness and in health. As on earth as it is in heaven. To boldly go where no man has gon...wait! Ah crap that's not right. I always get my vows mixed up. That's even the wrong 'Star' for Kylo Ren. Yet you best believe that this Oscar favourite is even bigger than the blockbuster 'Wars' of a trilogy conclusion decades in the making this Christmas. Let's try this again. Do you Adam Driver take Scarlett Johansson to be your wedded wife? To have and to hold. To make people feel comfortable even about embarrassing things. From this day forward. To really listen when someone is talking. For better, for worse. To always inexplicably brew a cup of tea that you don't drink. For richer, for poorer. Even if its not easy to pick up a sock, close a cabinet, or do a dish, she tries for you. In sickness and health. In saying you can play any part (in a way she actually can...as long as it's her own race and in good taste), even if it's for Woody (but she's walked all that back). 'Til death do you part. She's your favourite actress. From her teenage, Tokyo 'Lost In Translation' breakout beginnings, holding her neon own alongside Bill Murray for a Coppola, to every 'Her' reply from Spike Jonze audible in reply. And with her greatest since then this Avenger really is a Marvel. What more could you expect from someone who can still play 'Black Widow' in a movie when she threw that character she made iconic off a cliff to 'Infinity War' and beyond in what should have been her 'Endgame'. Despite the shade, Scarlett is one of the greatest actors around with a filmography more formidable than the M.C.U.'s comic canon. But 'Under The Skin' this is real life. And it doesn't come much more genuine than Johansson's emotionally engaging performance, evoking all the acting senses. Put this next to her prolific performance in Taika Waititi's 'JoJo Rabbit' and ScarJo may just pull the Oscar double out the hat.

Do you Scarlett Johansson take Kylo Re...I mean Adam Driver to be your lawful wedded husband. To have and to hold. Through being undaunted. From not letting anyone's opinions or setbacks keep you from doing what you want to do. From this day forward. Through eating like you're trying to get it over with and there won't be enough for everyone. Through sandwiches being strangled and then devoured. For better, or worse. In being incredibly neat and keeping everything in order. Through being energy conscious and crying easily in movies (I wonder if you cried the same four times here too). For richer, or poorer. In loving being a dad and all the things you're supposed to hate. The tantrums. The waking up at night. In sickness and in health. In telling people they have food in their teeth or on their face in a way that doesn't make them feel bad. 'Til death do you part. Even if he is a sith lord. He still shows resistance to the dark side of a marriage in its force choking depression. But right now breaking the mask he's about to burn it all to the ground like the Broadway incendiary 'Burn This' erotic romance with Keri Russell. As the 'Paterson' performer shows just the emotional and indelible depths of his passion that is his talent and vice versa. Driver is the driving force just like he is to his own 'Inside Llewellyn Davis', 'Midnight Special' and 'BlackKklansman' rolling, roll call resume. And speaking off Broadway how about the song he adds to this dance? We've never seen him like this. We've never seen him this to the letter emotional. This dry wall angry. This better.

Trumpet 'Marriage Story' as matrimony to not only the Academy, but 'The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Old)' (also Netflix) and 'Greenberg', 'Frances Ha' (also with Adam) director Noah Baumbach's best and brightest despite the darkness of divorce offset by some Hollywood piano from Randy Newman, scoring hurt aswell as tinkling that 'Toy Story', "friend in me" ivory. His signature style (the genius dual opening is outstanding) brings an offbeat outstanding feel to this indie New York to California picture as L.A. and N.Y.C. battle and play gentle tug of war with the rag doll arms of their son (introducing an inspired Azhy Robertson people) like an East Coast/West Coast rap beef. The distance between them on an N.Y.C. subway is borough bow long. This is 'Kramer vs Kramer' for the 'Blue Valentine' bruised generation throwing out the Gosling 'Notebook'. This is funny, but only in an awkward enthusiasm curbed way. Like when he Driver gets served like a pie in the face sort of way (from Netflix's own heaven sent 'Godless' miniseries scene stealer Merritt Wever), 'till when he's bleeding on the kitchen floor after a hilarious, but more heartbreaking awkward situation with a knife and a counsellor coming to check he's got his house in order which leaves blood on the door like it came from the shirt of a serial killer...and that's exactly what Driver does in this scene...kill it. Heeere's Johnny! Overall it's f###### devastating in its heartbreak. It's not break-up ballad because a song would be too sweet. Too saccharine. Because when this story does tie all the knots together of this undoing like a lace (and not a big beautiful bow this Christmas) it makes you earn every emotion. One that crooked frame, picture perfect portrait shows you sometimes the one thing that gets in the way of love...is marriage. Bittersweet poetry. Yet this is absolute art from the streaming service alongside the CGI of Scorsese's 'Irishman' of the big-three of Dr Niro, Pacino and Pesci, now that 'Roma' finally took the black and white Oscar back to honouring classics, no matter the medium in this new living room Hollywood that's entered the Academy arena. So much so legends like Laura Dern, Julie Hagerty, Alan Alda and Ray Liotta (the one 'Goodfella' who didn't become an 'Irishman', but still got a Netflix deal) are wedded with this bliss at their iconic best. This story of these two theatre types setting this stage perfectly with all the players for something that could once join Adam's 'Burn This' on Broadway is the spotlight of the fall favourites in definitive drama for Academy acclaim. To have and to hold an Oscar that no Scarlett letter could divorce from. This I vow like a ring to the finger. I now pronounce Driver and Johansson, Best Actor and Actress. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Kramer vs Kramer', 'Lost In Translation', 'Burn This (Broadway)'.

REVIEW: LAST CHRISTMAS

3.5/5

Careless Winter.

103 Mins. Starring: Emilia Clarke, Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh, Rob Delaney, Peter Serafinowicz, Sue Perkins & Emma Thompson. Director: Paul Feig.

'Last Christmas'. Critics gave this one star. The very next day I decided to watch it anyway. This year, to save me from tears, alone in Tokyo like a Lianne La Havas song, I miss London (I know that's not how the Wham! song goes), so this is something special. Plus I love George Michael like 'Jesus To A Child' (they should have made 'Last Christmas', the Christmas before last, Christmas number one in tribute after his heartbreaking death announced on the previous December 25th. Hey if they can start a successful campaign to get Rage there, they can honour this real pop idol), Emilia Clarke (and spoiler alert (I've been told them all), I've not even see 'Game Of Thrones', not for want of trying (I'm reading as we speak)) and 'Crazy, Rich Asian', smooth enough to be stirred as the new Bond (complete with a great Connery here), Brit born, Henry Golding. 'A Simple Favor' director Paul Feig also makes classic comedies, whether the John Candy land era Michelle McCarthy is milk carton or not (no matter what you say about his female proton pack rebooted 'Ghostbusters'. '2020' will be the one to call like more Bill Murray. But there was nothing strange in the neighborhood of the 2016 remake...try saying that a year later like Trump). And here he reunites the 'Crazy Rich Asians' of stars Golding and a scene stealing Michelle Yeoh as "Santa" this Christmas as he decks the halls with some of your favourites and all the tinsel and trimmings from 'Love Actually's' (we still haven't got over the late, great Alan Rickman giving that office tart a necklace...that's even more evil than Snape) own Great Brit icon Emma Thompson's terrific script. All for a classic Xmas rom-com that may be as schmaltzy as those gaudy Christmas baubles, but still channels that hallmark heart.

She before he. 'Me Before You' star Emilia Clarke is the star on the top of this tree. From 'Thrones' to 'Solo' this queen of dragons and 'Star Wars' star has really come into her own. And here in this 'Notting Hill' classic Brit flick it's about time she starred in something like that this Christmas that's part Nicolas Cage 'Family Man' (and another nostalgic, romantic classic of his we can't name or we'd give the game) and Will Smith's 'Collateral Beauty' without the contrived nature, but all that 'Christmas Chronicles' magic (which will give riding in on an 'Escape From The North Pole', 'Big Trouble In Little Lapland' a Santa saviour Kurt Russell (and his real life Mrs. Claus, Goldie Hawn) sequel next Christmas to all the festive themed coal Netflix is coming out with right now 'The Knight Before Christmas' (and people say this is crap?!)). Part 'Sliding Doors' Paltrow life underground in London, other tube door 'Bridget Jones' esque 'Holiday' favourite with 'Serendipity' poetry, Clarke is in a class of her own. Emilia evokes every emotion. Tears of joy, laughter, unbearable pain of love and loss in life for another lonely Christmas, but she never gives up that fire for this warm winters tale wrapped in Christmas lights with only a few of them going out. As the best dressed 'Elf' this Christmas as funny as Ferrell is our new favourite like smiling. Even managing to pull off a leopard print coat and making it even iconic that only the 'Edge Of Reason' could explain. But when it comes to great British leading men like 007, with a license to chill this fall, 'The Gentleman' of Guy Ritchie's next classic Henry Golding is not only comedy gold, the 'Crazy, Rich Asians' man of last year is a charming, charisma cauldron of good lucks and an even better heart, skin deep underneath. The soul of this story, Henry and Emilia are as linked in love as you will be with this BBC movie under the tree each and every year from now as traditional as the crown of the Queen's speech when it makes it to T.V. and really finds its festive home like next to the fire. One is in love. Mistletoe.

Bird poop lands in Emilia's eye for one of the funniest moments in this movie. But critics have been s###### on this nice Christmas tale like Scrooge. Well bah humbug to them. Forget a cliché. This picture is present wrapped like a scarf with the holiday movie traditions of tis season. And there's nothing wrong with that. Add a legend like Michelle Yeoh at the 'Crouching Tiger' and 'Star Trek: Discovery' no longer hidden in Hollywood or Hong Kong best and some classic cameos from the bake off queen Sue Perkins, 'Guardains Of The Galaxy' and 'John Wick' sequel star Peter Serafinowicz and Peter himself Rob Delaney. Not to mention writer Emma Thompson scripting herself an equal parts hilarious and heartfelt mothering part and this really is a family favourite despite all those forgetting to add this film to their Christmas card list. You know how it goes. It just slips your mind. This is so inoffensive, so why the front for another favourite from 'The Heat' of the 'Bridesmaids' and 'Spy' underrated Feig filmography which just got it's own Bublé like Christmas special coming out of the cave for this fairy lights bright side? A couple of critics forget to put more stars on this tree and then everyone says it's a bad Christmas...although they haven't even opens the advent calender door on it even though how many days are coming(?) like me confusing the lyrics of that truckload of Christmas neon, Coca Cola commercial (I'm sorry it's just that time of the year and egg nog. Did I just see E.T. home with Elliott for the holidays?). THEY HAVEN'T EVEN SEEN THE MOVIE! Or when they watch it feel some sort of guilt or obligation to join the toilet roll throwing on this Douglas Fir like you'll lose some cool points this Christmas if you choose to put on that ugly sweater and just enjoy this time of year for what it is. This isn't so bad it's good. It's so good it's hard to even see where critics are coming from. And the only thing spoiling this more than some of our arms being folded in the opening as we almost give into the social media status quo is the fact that some reviewers have given away the twist to this punch, adding narrative injury to narcissistic insult. "Once bitten and twice shy". Forgive me, critics have every right to voice their opinion, even if it's scathed a Christmas card as scarlet as St. Nick's wardrobe. But what they don't have the right to do is spoil a movie with more than their this Christmas character like cynicism, but by revealing the actual end of this event for filmgoers to really spoil the party like their Murtle moaning. Where's the apology? Want to know about the end? Well I won't tell. Even if you already know. But know this. I shed more than some tears. And it's not because the festive feeling of the corner Covent Garden shop (like the family European road trip memories of Michael's music plays on repeat in a channel tunnel drive on to Switzerland as that was the only C.D. we had in the car when I was younger. But 'You Have Been Loved', 'Older' never got old like the romantic nostalgia of that album shuffling on to the iPod like 'Jesus To A Child' as I walked to the Godzilla Shinjuku cinema to see this movie even further East in Japan) reminds me of a London trip, falling in love a few months after and years ago for Valentine's were surrounded by the black Bafta Mercedes red carpet of all the foggy towns world renowned movie stars I was only concerned about one leading lady. Bringing joy to a writer out here a million miles away, missing the home he's about to come back to for the holidays in eager anticipation. It's just beautiful. Like the stage of her 'Blinded By The Light' like speech for another movie inspired by music (Springsteen). Like the hidden gems filmed on location in the Big Smoke. Or this movies help to the homeless and all their Boris just walking past talents of the real rough sleepers. Or how it stands up on the bus to Brexit, Britain first bullies beautifully. Or by George what it does for Michael with his music and some cutting room floor unreleased gems as the credits roll like sellotape and wrapping paper. Save me from the jeers because 'Last Christmas' won't when it comes to tears and the real meaning behind the music and what it does for the true star at the 'Freedom' top of this tree. This is for you George. This is heaven sent. Just look up...you won't always get s### on. Wham! Bam! Thank you man. Merry Christmas. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Notting Hill', 'Crazy, Rich Asians', 'The Christmas Chronicles'.