The Boeing 747 (Jumbo Jet) first rolled out of production 38 years ago.
Now, the average lifespan of an airplane is 30 years. (Would you drive a car that was 30 years old? Mmmmm.....)
Anyway, when it's outlived it's usefulness, they are sent to France for disposal and recycling.
Aircraft contain many toxic substances, and as such, need to be disposed of properly.
Interesting article, but what worries me is that when planes are sent here, any parts that still work are sent away for 're-sale'! What!? So there are possibly parts being used in aircraft that we are flying on that come from planes up to 30 years old.
Worrying thought, don't you think?
Saturday, September 30, 2006
The Americans Are At It Again!
Talks between the United States and the European Union on transferring airline passengers information and data have broken down, according to EU officials.
Now the US are trying to enforce that any flights into the US from the EU, and that includes the UK, should have data sent to them about its passengers.
This doesn't just include names, but telephone numbers and credit card details. However, the EU has rightfully declared this practice as illegal.
I don't know about you, but I wouldn't feel comfortable knowing that my personal details were being sent to the US.
I understand the need for additional security, particularly with the current terrorist risks, but this seems a little extreme to me.
What would happen if this information became available to others? Identity theft is a major problem today and if this information should be 'leaked', the repercussions could be considerable.
The US are threatening that if this information isn't supplied, the flight will not be allowed to land. However, if the airline does provide the information, they risk prosecution by the EU.
Catch 22 again. No doubt, for commercial reasons, the EU will compromise at the expense of the consumer....AGAIN!
Now the US are trying to enforce that any flights into the US from the EU, and that includes the UK, should have data sent to them about its passengers.
This doesn't just include names, but telephone numbers and credit card details. However, the EU has rightfully declared this practice as illegal.
I don't know about you, but I wouldn't feel comfortable knowing that my personal details were being sent to the US.
I understand the need for additional security, particularly with the current terrorist risks, but this seems a little extreme to me.
What would happen if this information became available to others? Identity theft is a major problem today and if this information should be 'leaked', the repercussions could be considerable.
The US are threatening that if this information isn't supplied, the flight will not be allowed to land. However, if the airline does provide the information, they risk prosecution by the EU.
Catch 22 again. No doubt, for commercial reasons, the EU will compromise at the expense of the consumer....AGAIN!
Want To Get High - LEGALLY?
There's no denying it!
The use of drug use in the UK is on the rise, some would say understandably so....
However, with drug use comes the risk of being caught by the authorities with an illegal substance, be it cannabis, 'phet or ecstacy.
There is a rise in totally 'legal' drugs and herbs that give the same effects as the popular party drugs, and they are available in virtually every major town in the uk.
Want to know more? Click here!
The use of drug use in the UK is on the rise, some would say understandably so....
However, with drug use comes the risk of being caught by the authorities with an illegal substance, be it cannabis, 'phet or ecstacy.
There is a rise in totally 'legal' drugs and herbs that give the same effects as the popular party drugs, and they are available in virtually every major town in the uk.
Want to know more? Click here!
"Swingers" and "Go" : Films Directed By Doug Liman
Told from three perspectives, Go is a story of a bunch of young Californians trying to get some cash.
They do and deal some drugs, score money and sex in Las Vegas, and generally experience the rush of life.
Stars the raven haired beauty Katie Holmes.
If you like Pulp Fiction, you'll enjoy this film.
Well acted and a fantastic, well scripted storyline and dialogue. Darkly funny in places, disturbing and shocking in others.
Soundtrack is recognisably late 90's and fits in well with the film.
Definitely worth a watch.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Vince Vaughn stars in Swingers - 1996.
This is a story about Mike, a guy who left his girl in New York when he came to LA to be a star. It's been 12 months since his girlfriend left him and he's not doing so good.
So, his pal and some other friends try and get him back in the social scene and forget about his 6 year relationship. They decide on a spontaneous road trip to Las Vegas.
Excellent soundtrack, and some genuinely funny scenes and dialogue.
I defy any man to watch this film and not relate in some ways.
We've all been where Mike has been and there are so many times you recognise 'wrong moves' but, we've all done it!
Don't go out of your way to get this film, but if you see it advertised, well worth a watch.
They do and deal some drugs, score money and sex in Las Vegas, and generally experience the rush of life.
Stars the raven haired beauty Katie Holmes.
If you like Pulp Fiction, you'll enjoy this film.
Well acted and a fantastic, well scripted storyline and dialogue. Darkly funny in places, disturbing and shocking in others.
Soundtrack is recognisably late 90's and fits in well with the film.
Definitely worth a watch.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Vince Vaughn stars in Swingers - 1996.
This is a story about Mike, a guy who left his girl in New York when he came to LA to be a star. It's been 12 months since his girlfriend left him and he's not doing so good.
So, his pal and some other friends try and get him back in the social scene and forget about his 6 year relationship. They decide on a spontaneous road trip to Las Vegas.
Excellent soundtrack, and some genuinely funny scenes and dialogue.
I defy any man to watch this film and not relate in some ways.
We've all been where Mike has been and there are so many times you recognise 'wrong moves' but, we've all done it!
Don't go out of your way to get this film, but if you see it advertised, well worth a watch.
Friday, September 29, 2006
EU told to speed up GM approvals by U.S.
The US has urged the European Union to speed up its process for approving new genetically modified (GM) products.
The call came after the World Trade Organisation publicly released its ruling that the EU acted illegally in banning GM imports from 1999 to 2004.
Now, I'm all for advancements in food technology, but I am undecided about genetically modified foods. There is no research to show what the long term effects would be on humans, as well as the environment.
But apart from that, the banning by the EU of certain GM foods was one of the few decisions the EU have made that I personally approve of.
But, as par for the course, the US and World Trade Organisation (Overseen by a board of US delegates, as is the United Nations!) are trying to use bullying tactics to enforce their views on the rest of the world!
The last time the US did this, we got Iraq.....and Afghanistan.....and Israel/Lebanon....and Iran.
When are people in this country going to realise that the EU is NOT a good idea for this country, and when will the REST OF EUROPE stand up for themselves and stop being so afraid of the U.S!
The call came after the World Trade Organisation publicly released its ruling that the EU acted illegally in banning GM imports from 1999 to 2004.
Now, I'm all for advancements in food technology, but I am undecided about genetically modified foods. There is no research to show what the long term effects would be on humans, as well as the environment.
But apart from that, the banning by the EU of certain GM foods was one of the few decisions the EU have made that I personally approve of.
But, as par for the course, the US and World Trade Organisation (Overseen by a board of US delegates, as is the United Nations!) are trying to use bullying tactics to enforce their views on the rest of the world!
The last time the US did this, we got Iraq.....and Afghanistan.....and Israel/Lebanon....and Iran.
When are people in this country going to realise that the EU is NOT a good idea for this country, and when will the REST OF EUROPE stand up for themselves and stop being so afraid of the U.S!
I In 8 English Pupils Speak English As 2nd Language
Well, the figures speak for themselves.
1 in 8 pupils in England speak English as their second language.
Is this due to poor education or some anomaly in the figures? Means testing maybe?
No, the actual figures are that 419,600 pupils in primary schools (20.6% of all primary schoolchildren) and 314,950 in secondary schools (16.8% of all secondary schoolchildren)!
That's THREE QUARTERS OF A MILLION children under 16 in this country! And this is set to rise between 1%-3% each year!
This is primarily due to the level of cultural diversity and influx of immigrants into this country.
Our schools, for example one school in Suffolk, teaches their primary schoolchildren to count from 1 to 5, not only in English, but also in Polish, due to the level of Polish immigrant children in the classes in the county.
I've said before that I am not xenophobic, but this strikes me as being a problem for our future generations. If teachers are having to spend more time teaching English, surely other subjects like maths and sciences are going to suffer?
And how will this affect the learning capabilities of none English speaking pupils?
Should we be looking at creating seperate schools for each of the ethnic groups, or would this encourage racism and anti-semetism?
I don't know the answers, but the questions ARE there and they need answering.....
1 in 8 pupils in England speak English as their second language.
Is this due to poor education or some anomaly in the figures? Means testing maybe?
No, the actual figures are that 419,600 pupils in primary schools (20.6% of all primary schoolchildren) and 314,950 in secondary schools (16.8% of all secondary schoolchildren)!
That's THREE QUARTERS OF A MILLION children under 16 in this country! And this is set to rise between 1%-3% each year!
This is primarily due to the level of cultural diversity and influx of immigrants into this country.
Our schools, for example one school in Suffolk, teaches their primary schoolchildren to count from 1 to 5, not only in English, but also in Polish, due to the level of Polish immigrant children in the classes in the county.
I've said before that I am not xenophobic, but this strikes me as being a problem for our future generations. If teachers are having to spend more time teaching English, surely other subjects like maths and sciences are going to suffer?
And how will this affect the learning capabilities of none English speaking pupils?
Should we be looking at creating seperate schools for each of the ethnic groups, or would this encourage racism and anti-semetism?
I don't know the answers, but the questions ARE there and they need answering.....
All You Need Is Ubuntu
A word describing an African worldview, which translates as "I am because you are," and which means that individuals need other people to be fulfilled.
The word comes from the Bantu languages spoken in southern Africa - and is related to a Zulu concept - "umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu" - which means that a person is only a person through their relationship to others.
It means that there is a common bond between people - and when one person's circumstances improve, everyone gains and if one person is tortured or oppressed, everyone is diminished.
Interesting concept eh?
Maybe it's not love that we need, it's ubuntu!
The word comes from the Bantu languages spoken in southern Africa - and is related to a Zulu concept - "umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu" - which means that a person is only a person through their relationship to others.
It means that there is a common bond between people - and when one person's circumstances improve, everyone gains and if one person is tortured or oppressed, everyone is diminished.
Interesting concept eh?
Maybe it's not love that we need, it's ubuntu!
Thursday, September 28, 2006
New 'Face' Of The BBC Is A Hippo!
BBC One has unveiled its latest on-screen identity, complete with new logo and images for the channel.
But what this article doesn't tell you is that it's cost £1.2 million of OUR TV Licence fee to do it!
Money well spent? I don't think so, but who am I to judge?
But what this article doesn't tell you is that it's cost £1.2 million of OUR TV Licence fee to do it!
Money well spent? I don't think so, but who am I to judge?
Richard Hammond Expected To Fully Recover In 6 Months
Nice to hear that he's going to be OK after his horrendous crash.
See, there is good news out there! And he's been moved out of ICU in Leeds to a Bristol hospital, so he's closer to friends and family.
I was shocked to hear about his injuries, but it's good to hear the Top Gear presenter is doing so well, especially after the doom and gloom the media put on his injuries!
I hope he makes a speedy recovery and we see him back on Top Gear with his own inimitable, 'no fear' approach to motor journalism.
See, there is good news out there! And he's been moved out of ICU in Leeds to a Bristol hospital, so he's closer to friends and family.
I was shocked to hear about his injuries, but it's good to hear the Top Gear presenter is doing so well, especially after the doom and gloom the media put on his injuries!
I hope he makes a speedy recovery and we see him back on Top Gear with his own inimitable, 'no fear' approach to motor journalism.
Director Peter Jackson Signs Xbox Deal
As mentioned in an earlier blog, Peter Jackson (King Kong, Lord Of The Rings) has signed an exclusive deal with Microsoft XBox Division to create a 'new' form of media entertainment.
Click the link for more info.
Click the link for more info.
Computers Help With Breast Cancer Detection
Well, it appears that using a specially designed piece of software to scan x-rays is as good as having two radiologists studying them!
The marvels of modern science and technology eh?
As usual, click the link for more info.
The marvels of modern science and technology eh?
As usual, click the link for more info.
What's the point of Daddy Longlegs (Crane Flies)?
Yep, it's September, and with it the usual invasion of Daddy Longlegs, or Crane Flies.
What is their purpose in the great circle of life?
Why do there seem to be so many more?
And what will be the outcome of this abundance?
Well, they don't do a lot except provide food for other insects and birds. Because of the unusual September weather conditions, they are thriving.
And the outcome? Well, bigger spiders for one!
Click the link for more info on the insect voted Second Scariest in the UK. (Spiders are No.1)
What is their purpose in the great circle of life?
Why do there seem to be so many more?
And what will be the outcome of this abundance?
Well, they don't do a lot except provide food for other insects and birds. Because of the unusual September weather conditions, they are thriving.
And the outcome? Well, bigger spiders for one!
Click the link for more info on the insect voted Second Scariest in the UK. (Spiders are No.1)
X06 Video
I've just watched the 'X06 Webcast Briefing' by Major Nelson in Barcelona, and all I can say is "WOW!"
For those of you who are interested, this is a broadcast of the briefing for all things XBox 360 coming up in the next 12-18 months. It's probably the best hour I've spent in front of my PC for a long time, and if you are a gamer, there is a LOT to get excited about! If you want to view this yourself, you can access the video stream HERE.
There's a lot of info in the broadcast, and lots to be excited about, IF you are a gamer!
Of interest to me personally was the following:
Gears Of War - A new first person shooter.
Assassins Creed - An RPG in the same mould as Prince Of Persia set in the 3rd Crusade era.
Blue Dragon - A new RPG from the creator of the Final Fantasy series.
Project Gotham Racing 4 - Need I say more?
Forza 2 - 600 cars, downloadable tracks, fully customisable vehicles.
Rainbow Six : Vegas - You know about this already from a previous blog.
Bioshock - A unique FPS (First Person Shooter).
Lost Odyssey - An amazing looking RPG. Turn based and also from the creator of the FF series.
Splinter Cell : Double Agent - Sam Fisher is back, with a vengeance.
Sensible Soccer - Coming out on XBox Arcade, the classic 90's football game.
And the original DOOM is now available for download at 800 pts.
Also included is the fact that Peter Jackson (King Kong, Lord Of The Rings) is teaming up with Microsoft Game Studios to develop numerous tiltles in the future and creating a game development team called "Wingnut Interactive"
I've provided links to as much as I can, but all the trailers are now available on XBox Live Marketplace for you to download and view at your leisure under the heading 'Bringing It Home' on Marketplace.
Also announced was the HD-DVD add-on for the XBox 360 will retail at £129.99 and will include a Windows Media Remote Control (worth £19.99) and a copy of King Kong on HiDef DVD.
I'm sure you'll agree that there is a lot to look forward to, all starting in November. And in my opinion, Sony has a lot of catching up to do with their new PS3 console. Is the gap going to be too great for Sony catch up? Only time will tell!
Enjoy! And until next time.......
For those of you who are interested, this is a broadcast of the briefing for all things XBox 360 coming up in the next 12-18 months. It's probably the best hour I've spent in front of my PC for a long time, and if you are a gamer, there is a LOT to get excited about! If you want to view this yourself, you can access the video stream HERE.
There's a lot of info in the broadcast, and lots to be excited about, IF you are a gamer!
Of interest to me personally was the following:
Gears Of War - A new first person shooter.
Assassins Creed - An RPG in the same mould as Prince Of Persia set in the 3rd Crusade era.
Blue Dragon - A new RPG from the creator of the Final Fantasy series.
Project Gotham Racing 4 - Need I say more?
Forza 2 - 600 cars, downloadable tracks, fully customisable vehicles.
Rainbow Six : Vegas - You know about this already from a previous blog.
Bioshock - A unique FPS (First Person Shooter).
Lost Odyssey - An amazing looking RPG. Turn based and also from the creator of the FF series.
Splinter Cell : Double Agent - Sam Fisher is back, with a vengeance.
Sensible Soccer - Coming out on XBox Arcade, the classic 90's football game.
And the original DOOM is now available for download at 800 pts.
Also included is the fact that Peter Jackson (King Kong, Lord Of The Rings) is teaming up with Microsoft Game Studios to develop numerous tiltles in the future and creating a game development team called "Wingnut Interactive"
I've provided links to as much as I can, but all the trailers are now available on XBox Live Marketplace for you to download and view at your leisure under the heading 'Bringing It Home' on Marketplace.
Also announced was the HD-DVD add-on for the XBox 360 will retail at £129.99 and will include a Windows Media Remote Control (worth £19.99) and a copy of King Kong on HiDef DVD.
I'm sure you'll agree that there is a lot to look forward to, all starting in November. And in my opinion, Sony has a lot of catching up to do with their new PS3 console. Is the gap going to be too great for Sony catch up? Only time will tell!
Enjoy! And until next time.......
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Halo Fans - Pay Attention!
Apparently, Bungie are/have worked in conjuction with Microsoft Game Studios to create a RTS (Real Time Strategy) game based on the Halo universe.
Set before the Halo games, it promises to be Red Alert but with Scorpions, Warthogs and all!
Click the link for the FMV intro, and enjoy!
Set before the Halo games, it promises to be Red Alert but with Scorpions, Warthogs and all!
Click the link for the FMV intro, and enjoy!
Do You Have A Steady Hand?
Try this one out for size. It's better if you have sound on too!
http://www.winterrowd.com/maze/ Enjoy!
And afterwards, get the missus to have a go, should prove REALLY funny!
If you want to see how well an 8 year old does at the same test, click HERE.
Oh no! I dunno if I should carry on crying with laughter or feel realy sorry for that kid!
Emotionaly scarred for life methinks!
Can you imagine how he'll react when he actually watches The Exorcist?
Wish there were a vid of that!
(Serves him right for being too close to the screen, at least a damaged mind can be healed, retina burns are somewhat more difficult to heal!)
http://www.winterrowd.com/maze/ Enjoy!
And afterwards, get the missus to have a go, should prove REALLY funny!
If you want to see how well an 8 year old does at the same test, click HERE.
Oh no! I dunno if I should carry on crying with laughter or feel realy sorry for that kid!
Emotionaly scarred for life methinks!
Can you imagine how he'll react when he actually watches The Exorcist?
Wish there were a vid of that!
(Serves him right for being too close to the screen, at least a damaged mind can be healed, retina burns are somewhat more difficult to heal!)
Enchanted Arms XBox 360
The Xbox 360's first Japanese RPG places you in the control of Atsuma, who early in his adventure manages to inadvertently open a seal which revives the fierce Devil Golem. You'll make use of Golem support characters as you work through the game's strategic battle system. The game has over 100 Golems which can be assembled using ingredient items. Characters can be customized using the "SP" experience points that you gain in battle. As the story develops, players face increasingly difficult challenges and learn to master Atsuma's special fighting and magical abilities.
Again, enough of the blurb! (Thanks to www.IGN.com for the 'blurb' on all my reviews!)
When the 360 was announced, one of the major selling points, in my humble opinion, was the plethora of RPG's that were promised. (That's 'Role Playing Games' for you newbies out there!)
Sadly, as you are probably aware, they have have been few and, well, one actually - Oblivion. Now don't get me wrong, I admire what Oblivion is, but in my eyes, it's not my type of RPG. I like Final Fantasy games immensely, much preferring the 'turn-based' battle system employed as opposed to the semi 'hack 'n' slash' of Oblivion. You can check my gamertag, but I did buy Oblivion, played it for 3 hours but wasn't hooked, and in my opinion, a good RPG will encourage you to forget whatever social/family life you have and allow you to immerse yourself in it's often weird and wonderful realm.
And this game does that, and more. If you are a fan of the Final Fantasy games (FF VII was the best in my opinion), you will thoroughly enjoy this.
It's a turn-based battle system, but with a twist, and I would say it's better than that employed with the Final Fantasy games. Battle takes place with your characters on a 4x4 grid, and your attacks vary from single square attacks to 'T' shaped, 'V' shaped and every other shape inbetween, which adds a quite significant degree of strategy to your battles.
The characters are typically Japanese, as is the storyline. And the graphics and attack sequences are superb.
As for difficulty, you will find that it's not too steep a learning curve, but new players may struggle initially until all the SP, AP, EP and Core systems 'click'. After that, it becomes easier, but NEVER too easy.
I completed this game in just over 60 hours, so it's not a weekend hire title, and thoroughly enjoyed every minute.
Well done Ubisoft for filling a woefully neglected niche market on the 360, and they have chosen a superb title to do it with.
Highly recommended, although I wouldn't imagine too many people re-playing this after completing it the first time.
If you liked any of the Final Fantasy games, do not hesitate to purchase this. If you adored Oblivion, I would suggest you try before you buy!
Again, enough of the blurb! (Thanks to www.IGN.com for the 'blurb' on all my reviews!)
When the 360 was announced, one of the major selling points, in my humble opinion, was the plethora of RPG's that were promised. (That's 'Role Playing Games' for you newbies out there!)
Sadly, as you are probably aware, they have have been few and, well, one actually - Oblivion. Now don't get me wrong, I admire what Oblivion is, but in my eyes, it's not my type of RPG. I like Final Fantasy games immensely, much preferring the 'turn-based' battle system employed as opposed to the semi 'hack 'n' slash' of Oblivion. You can check my gamertag, but I did buy Oblivion, played it for 3 hours but wasn't hooked, and in my opinion, a good RPG will encourage you to forget whatever social/family life you have and allow you to immerse yourself in it's often weird and wonderful realm.
And this game does that, and more. If you are a fan of the Final Fantasy games (FF VII was the best in my opinion), you will thoroughly enjoy this.
It's a turn-based battle system, but with a twist, and I would say it's better than that employed with the Final Fantasy games. Battle takes place with your characters on a 4x4 grid, and your attacks vary from single square attacks to 'T' shaped, 'V' shaped and every other shape inbetween, which adds a quite significant degree of strategy to your battles.
The characters are typically Japanese, as is the storyline. And the graphics and attack sequences are superb.
As for difficulty, you will find that it's not too steep a learning curve, but new players may struggle initially until all the SP, AP, EP and Core systems 'click'. After that, it becomes easier, but NEVER too easy.
I completed this game in just over 60 hours, so it's not a weekend hire title, and thoroughly enjoyed every minute.
Well done Ubisoft for filling a woefully neglected niche market on the 360, and they have chosen a superb title to do it with.
Highly recommended, although I wouldn't imagine too many people re-playing this after completing it the first time.
If you liked any of the Final Fantasy games, do not hesitate to purchase this. If you adored Oblivion, I would suggest you try before you buy!
Condemned: Criminal Origins XBox 360
You are FBI agent Ethan Thomas, whose pursuit of relentless serial killers leads you through detailed urban environments filled with terrifyingly real sociopaths who lurk on the periphery of humanity. Gruesome weapons can be fashioned by clever players from the environment: paper-cutter handles, wooden planks and lead pipes ripped from walls can all be used to attack opponents. But watch your step, as enemies don't merely run at you; they find an appropriately powerful weapon to attack with and then hide in the shadows, waiting for an open opportunity to strike.
Enough of the blurb, you want to know what this is like don't you? If you are anything like me, you will have seen this game in the shop, possibly at a reduced price, as it was an original release title and thought 'Should I or shouldn't I?' and invariably talked yourself out of it.
Well, I've played the game, and I can honestly say - IT'S FANTASTIC!
The graphics are superb, as you would expect, and the controls are easy enough to master. But put this game on, turn on your surround sound and dim the lights. Even better, turn them off completely and prepare to be scared to death!
The ambient noises are very similar to Silent Hill games, and if you have played any of those and enjoyed them, I would suggest you stop reading this and go and buy this game! N O W !!!
The script is superb, and the environments are familiar, yet this game has a certain 'edge' to it! It is an 18 certificate for a reason, as most of your time will be spent either bludgeoning various enemies to death with pipes, crowbars and even signs. The rest of the time, you will be screaming like a girl, because I'm warning you, this game WILL scare you to death!
It's not overly long, so it may warrant a weekend hire, but trust me, if you are a fan of survival horror games such as Silent Hill or, dare I say it, Resident Evil, you will not want to put this game down!
It also has a certain replay value too! There are additional objectives and collectibles on each level to make sure you search every single nook and cranny and a bonus for only using melee weapons instead of the pistols, shotguns and Uzi's in the game.
Be warned, whatever ammo is in the weapon you collect, that's it! No "Ammo Packs" or "Weapon Upgrades" in this game, so you will inevitably resort to ripping pipes, 4 x 2's and fire-axes off walls to dispose of your enemies in brutal fashion.
Again, this is an 18 certificate game, and deservedly so. Definitely for the adult XBox 360 audience, but a stupendous effort.
Fantastic! Buy or Rent this game now! If nothing else, it will tide you over until the plethora of new games in November.
Now, where did I put that nail encrusted 4 x 2 plank? Mmmmmm.......
Enough of the blurb, you want to know what this is like don't you? If you are anything like me, you will have seen this game in the shop, possibly at a reduced price, as it was an original release title and thought 'Should I or shouldn't I?' and invariably talked yourself out of it.
Well, I've played the game, and I can honestly say - IT'S FANTASTIC!
The graphics are superb, as you would expect, and the controls are easy enough to master. But put this game on, turn on your surround sound and dim the lights. Even better, turn them off completely and prepare to be scared to death!
The ambient noises are very similar to Silent Hill games, and if you have played any of those and enjoyed them, I would suggest you stop reading this and go and buy this game! N O W !!!
The script is superb, and the environments are familiar, yet this game has a certain 'edge' to it! It is an 18 certificate for a reason, as most of your time will be spent either bludgeoning various enemies to death with pipes, crowbars and even signs. The rest of the time, you will be screaming like a girl, because I'm warning you, this game WILL scare you to death!
It's not overly long, so it may warrant a weekend hire, but trust me, if you are a fan of survival horror games such as Silent Hill or, dare I say it, Resident Evil, you will not want to put this game down!
It also has a certain replay value too! There are additional objectives and collectibles on each level to make sure you search every single nook and cranny and a bonus for only using melee weapons instead of the pistols, shotguns and Uzi's in the game.
Be warned, whatever ammo is in the weapon you collect, that's it! No "Ammo Packs" or "Weapon Upgrades" in this game, so you will inevitably resort to ripping pipes, 4 x 2's and fire-axes off walls to dispose of your enemies in brutal fashion.
Again, this is an 18 certificate game, and deservedly so. Definitely for the adult XBox 360 audience, but a stupendous effort.
Fantastic! Buy or Rent this game now! If nothing else, it will tide you over until the plethora of new games in November.
Now, where did I put that nail encrusted 4 x 2 plank? Mmmmmm.......
Medical Advancements Affecting Millions Of Us!
Cancer and heart deaths 'falling'.
The number of people dying from cancer and cardiovascular disease has fallen in the last decade in England, according to government figures.
My views: This is good news, as is anything that allows people to live longer, healthier lives. But I feel that too may people are not aware of the risks that their lifestyle and diet has for them long-term. We must forcefully educate people, and in extreme circumstances, as totalitarian as this may sound, impose some sort of sanctions on those who refuse, particularly parents of children who are suffering from obesity, and that is a THIRD OF ALL CHILDREN UNDER 14 for crying out loud!
Pesticides 'in a third of foods'.
Nearly a third of UK food and drink, including fruit and vegetables, contains pesticide, a government advisory body says.
My views: We have had the fact that we need to watch our cholestorol, salt and 'E' number intake. But if our food manufacturers and distributors are still loading our foods with pesticides, what impact is that going to have on our children in the future? I realise that certain pesticides need to be used, but has any long-term monitoring or testing been done on these, and what are the risks? Surely we should be looking at alternative ways of treating our food, and that EXCLUDES genetically modifying it! We have no right to play God, and we have no idea what the long term effects will be!
Lung cancer drug 'extends life'.
An experimental lung cancer drug has extended patients' life expectancy by more than 50% in preliminary trials.
My views: Hoorah! But we still need to reduce the amount of smokers in the country. Do you know that the government gets MASSIVE amounts of income from cigarette sales, but it has now reached the point where the cost to our Health Service from smoking is outstripping the duty revenue from tobacco sales? And don't even get me started on alcohol!
Children 'order alcohol on phone'.
Children as young as 12 buy alcohol by ordering it over the phone with takeaways, a government adviser says.
My views: Parents? What the hell are you doing? And also retailers? I know it's not as widespread as they say, but surely a lot of our social problems are due to bad parenting? When I rule the world, you won't be able to have children until you're over 25 and have been psychologically tested! Despotism at its best!
Well, that's it for now. Until next time!
The number of people dying from cancer and cardiovascular disease has fallen in the last decade in England, according to government figures.
My views: This is good news, as is anything that allows people to live longer, healthier lives. But I feel that too may people are not aware of the risks that their lifestyle and diet has for them long-term. We must forcefully educate people, and in extreme circumstances, as totalitarian as this may sound, impose some sort of sanctions on those who refuse, particularly parents of children who are suffering from obesity, and that is a THIRD OF ALL CHILDREN UNDER 14 for crying out loud!
Pesticides 'in a third of foods'.
Nearly a third of UK food and drink, including fruit and vegetables, contains pesticide, a government advisory body says.
My views: We have had the fact that we need to watch our cholestorol, salt and 'E' number intake. But if our food manufacturers and distributors are still loading our foods with pesticides, what impact is that going to have on our children in the future? I realise that certain pesticides need to be used, but has any long-term monitoring or testing been done on these, and what are the risks? Surely we should be looking at alternative ways of treating our food, and that EXCLUDES genetically modifying it! We have no right to play God, and we have no idea what the long term effects will be!
Lung cancer drug 'extends life'.
An experimental lung cancer drug has extended patients' life expectancy by more than 50% in preliminary trials.
My views: Hoorah! But we still need to reduce the amount of smokers in the country. Do you know that the government gets MASSIVE amounts of income from cigarette sales, but it has now reached the point where the cost to our Health Service from smoking is outstripping the duty revenue from tobacco sales? And don't even get me started on alcohol!
Children 'order alcohol on phone'.
Children as young as 12 buy alcohol by ordering it over the phone with takeaways, a government adviser says.
My views: Parents? What the hell are you doing? And also retailers? I know it's not as widespread as they say, but surely a lot of our social problems are due to bad parenting? When I rule the world, you won't be able to have children until you're over 25 and have been psychologically tested! Despotism at its best!
Well, that's it for now. Until next time!
People Should Be Scared About Global Warming
NOW the Government is telling us to be scared about global warming.
Is it just me, or were we informed that we could expect to see some major changes over the next few years in our weather patterns, when in actual fact, they are happening now?
OUR government is putting £10 million pounds into renewable energy research. WHAT? A paltry £10 million! They must think we are idiots!
As a nation, and indeed, as a species, we should be diverting ALL available funds into this research. In the 1950's we were 3 billion people, we are now 6 billion. At this rate of growth, we are going to devour all our resources in no time at all, just like a virus!
I agree we need to invest, but come on! Shouldn't we ALL be doing our bit instead of moaning about the weather and about having to split our rubbish into relevant bins?
We are the second lowest in the EU for the amount we recycle. In Holland, it's over 2/3rds of their rubbish is recycled. If they can do it, why can't we?
Of course, this needs to be indoctrinated into our children, and indeed, it is. But what about the other 5 billion people? As a species, we need to work together to resolve this or our planet will die, and us with it!
For information on how to 'do your bit', click HERE!
Is it just me, or were we informed that we could expect to see some major changes over the next few years in our weather patterns, when in actual fact, they are happening now?
OUR government is putting £10 million pounds into renewable energy research. WHAT? A paltry £10 million! They must think we are idiots!
As a nation, and indeed, as a species, we should be diverting ALL available funds into this research. In the 1950's we were 3 billion people, we are now 6 billion. At this rate of growth, we are going to devour all our resources in no time at all, just like a virus!
I agree we need to invest, but come on! Shouldn't we ALL be doing our bit instead of moaning about the weather and about having to split our rubbish into relevant bins?
We are the second lowest in the EU for the amount we recycle. In Holland, it's over 2/3rds of their rubbish is recycled. If they can do it, why can't we?
Of course, this needs to be indoctrinated into our children, and indeed, it is. But what about the other 5 billion people? As a species, we need to work together to resolve this or our planet will die, and us with it!
For information on how to 'do your bit', click HERE!
Romania and Bulgaria are to be admitted to the EU
So, it appears that Romania and Bulgaria are going to be joining the EU next year.
Now don't get me wrong, I'm all for an open market, but this is surely going to mean that we are going to receive an influx of more migrant workers, as we have experienced recently with Poland.
I'm not xenophobic, by any means, but with the influx of labour to this country of migrant workers, it is proving to be a double-edged sword.
I realise that they are willing to do the low paid, menial jobs that the majority of us Brits feel are beneath us, and I understand they are vital for the economy, however.....
They are not only a foreign peoples, but they are also different cultures. Near to where I live, Peterborough is jokingly referred to as the second capital of Poland, such has been the influx of Polish workers.
And if you read the local papers, with this influx comes some serious issues. For instance, the murder rate is rising round here, and it's primarily people from other cultures and nationalities killing each other off due to some sort of dispute. They have endured a brutal culture for so many years, that this mentality is continued over here.
I foresee major problems in the future, and as long as this influx of migrant workers continues, the problems between the plethora of cultures we now have in this country will only increase.
I hope I am wrong, but somehow I can see myself posting a future blog with the title "I told you so!"
Now don't get me wrong, I'm all for an open market, but this is surely going to mean that we are going to receive an influx of more migrant workers, as we have experienced recently with Poland.
I'm not xenophobic, by any means, but with the influx of labour to this country of migrant workers, it is proving to be a double-edged sword.
I realise that they are willing to do the low paid, menial jobs that the majority of us Brits feel are beneath us, and I understand they are vital for the economy, however.....
They are not only a foreign peoples, but they are also different cultures. Near to where I live, Peterborough is jokingly referred to as the second capital of Poland, such has been the influx of Polish workers.
And if you read the local papers, with this influx comes some serious issues. For instance, the murder rate is rising round here, and it's primarily people from other cultures and nationalities killing each other off due to some sort of dispute. They have endured a brutal culture for so many years, that this mentality is continued over here.
I foresee major problems in the future, and as long as this influx of migrant workers continues, the problems between the plethora of cultures we now have in this country will only increase.
I hope I am wrong, but somehow I can see myself posting a future blog with the title "I told you so!"
Rainbow 6 : Vegas for the XBox 360
Well, it's not far away from launch. Possibly the most anticipated game for the XBox 360, especially for the Rainbow 6 : Black Arrow fans from the original XBox.
Ah, the memories of countles hours engaged in close combat with my XBox LiVE buddies, and it's looking fantastic! Will make a change from Ghost Recon : Advanced Warfighter, as this is getting a little tired.
If you want to see the awesome graphics and gameplay, showing actual in-game footage (and you know you want to!), just click HERE and enjoy!
Ah, the memories of countles hours engaged in close combat with my XBox LiVE buddies, and it's looking fantastic! Will make a change from Ghost Recon : Advanced Warfighter, as this is getting a little tired.
If you want to see the awesome graphics and gameplay, showing actual in-game footage (and you know you want to!), just click HERE and enjoy!
Monday, September 25, 2006
Enchanted Arms
Well, it's taken me over 50 hours to do it, but I have finally completed Enchanted Arms!
And not only that, this is also the first game that I have got all 1,000 Achievement Points for!
What a fantastic game! I'll do a full review soon.
Next game? Well, it's going to be Blazing Angels.....wish me luck!
And not only that, this is also the first game that I have got all 1,000 Achievement Points for!
What a fantastic game! I'll do a full review soon.
Next game? Well, it's going to be Blazing Angels.....wish me luck!
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Texas Chainsaw Massacre - 2003
Well, I've just watched the 2003 remake of the 70's horror classic, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre on Channel 4 this evening.
As you may have gathered, I'm a bit of a horror film fan, and having recently watched the remake of "The Hills Have Eyes", I had fairly high hopes.
Sadly, I was a little disappointed!
The best thing about this film, was the lead character Erin, played by the gorgeous Jessica Biel.
Although gory enough, especially the suicide at the beginning, the remake lacks any of the dark, black humour of the original.
A group of friends passing through are stalked and hunted down by a deformed killer with a chainsaw in order to sustain his poor family who can only afford to eat what they kill.
Predictably, they all meet the required gruesome end and the finale is predictable and leaves it wide open for a pre-requisite sequel, well prequel really, as you will see.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad film at all, and the story was inspired by the real life Ed Gein, who was a notorious murderer in the USA in the 50's. The characters "Leatherface" from Texas Chainsaw Massacre, "Norman Bates" from Psycho and "Buffalo Bill" from Silence Of The Lambs were all inspired by Ed Gein.
Not a bad film, and fairly entertaining, but pales in comparison to the dark, gritty original from 1974. Worth watching if you are a fan of horror films, but don't expect anything groundbreaking.
As a side note, "Texas Chainsaw Massacre - The Beginning" is released at cinemas in the UK on October 13th. Click the link to view the official website.
I just might go and watch this when it's released....
As you may have gathered, I'm a bit of a horror film fan, and having recently watched the remake of "The Hills Have Eyes", I had fairly high hopes.
Sadly, I was a little disappointed!
The best thing about this film, was the lead character Erin, played by the gorgeous Jessica Biel.
Although gory enough, especially the suicide at the beginning, the remake lacks any of the dark, black humour of the original.
A group of friends passing through are stalked and hunted down by a deformed killer with a chainsaw in order to sustain his poor family who can only afford to eat what they kill.
Predictably, they all meet the required gruesome end and the finale is predictable and leaves it wide open for a pre-requisite sequel, well prequel really, as you will see.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad film at all, and the story was inspired by the real life Ed Gein, who was a notorious murderer in the USA in the 50's. The characters "Leatherface" from Texas Chainsaw Massacre, "Norman Bates" from Psycho and "Buffalo Bill" from Silence Of The Lambs were all inspired by Ed Gein.
Not a bad film, and fairly entertaining, but pales in comparison to the dark, gritty original from 1974. Worth watching if you are a fan of horror films, but don't expect anything groundbreaking.
As a side note, "Texas Chainsaw Massacre - The Beginning" is released at cinemas in the UK on October 13th. Click the link to view the official website.
I just might go and watch this when it's released....
Friday, September 22, 2006
A Joke For You!
The marriage of an 80 year old man and a 20 year old woman was the talk of the town.
After being married a year, the couple went to the hospital for the birth of their first child.
The attending nurse came out of the delivery room to congratulate the old gentleman and said, "This is amazing. How do you do it at your age?"
The old man grinned and said, "You got to keep the old motor running."
The following year, the couple returned to the hospital for the birth of their second child.
The same nurse was attending this delivery and again went out to congratulate the old gentleman. She said, "Sir, you are something else. How do you do it?"
The old man grinned and said, "You gotta keep the old motor running."
A year later, the couple returned to the hospital for the birth of their third child.
The same nurse was there for this birth and after the delivery she approached the old gentleman, smiling, and said, "Well, you surely are something else. How do you do it?"
The old man replied, "It's like I've told you before, you gotta keep the old motor running."
The nurse, still smiling, said to the old gentleman,
"Well, I guess it's time to change the oil. This one's black."
After being married a year, the couple went to the hospital for the birth of their first child.
The attending nurse came out of the delivery room to congratulate the old gentleman and said, "This is amazing. How do you do it at your age?"
The old man grinned and said, "You got to keep the old motor running."
The following year, the couple returned to the hospital for the birth of their second child.
The same nurse was attending this delivery and again went out to congratulate the old gentleman. She said, "Sir, you are something else. How do you do it?"
The old man grinned and said, "You gotta keep the old motor running."
A year later, the couple returned to the hospital for the birth of their third child.
The same nurse was there for this birth and after the delivery she approached the old gentleman, smiling, and said, "Well, you surely are something else. How do you do it?"
The old man replied, "It's like I've told you before, you gotta keep the old motor running."
The nurse, still smiling, said to the old gentleman,
"Well, I guess it's time to change the oil. This one's black."
Cracker Is Returning To ITV In October
Cracker first hit british screens on ITV back in 1993, the brainchild of Granada Television and Jimmy McGovern.
It ran officially as series until 1995, with a one off special screened in late 1996 (with a new one-off special now due October 2006) and went on to win numerous awards around the world, with Robbie Coltrane picking up the BAFTA award for Best Actor three years running.
It centered around Dr Edward Fitzgerald, otherwise known as Fitz, a criminal psychologist bought into assist the Manchester Police Force profile and catch killers.
You can see a new screening of this fantastic series in October on ITV1.
Hooray for the Autumn schedule!
It ran officially as series until 1995, with a one off special screened in late 1996 (with a new one-off special now due October 2006) and went on to win numerous awards around the world, with Robbie Coltrane picking up the BAFTA award for Best Actor three years running.
It centered around Dr Edward Fitzgerald, otherwise known as Fitz, a criminal psychologist bought into assist the Manchester Police Force profile and catch killers.
You can see a new screening of this fantastic series in October on ITV1.
Hooray for the Autumn schedule!
Don't Forget The Bird Flu Risk - PLEASE!
Indonesia bird flu toll hits 50
Human bird flu is most commonly transferred from poultry.
An 11-year-old boy has become Indonesia's 50th victim of birth flu, health officials say.
Good God! Why isn't THIS on the news? Because of migration patterns, we are STILL at risk, but because we aren't 'spoon fed' the information, we are in danger of becoming complacent!
Who decides what the public should be told eh?
And how complacent are we as a nation? It's very few and far between that you come across someone who actually makes the effort to find out the truth behind the headlines.
But should a Flu epidemic actually hit the U.K; we are told we have 'systems' in place. But are you aware, that because of the cost, we only have enough vaccinations for approximately a third of the population!
But they don't tell you that, do they?
Human bird flu is most commonly transferred from poultry.
An 11-year-old boy has become Indonesia's 50th victim of birth flu, health officials say.
Good God! Why isn't THIS on the news? Because of migration patterns, we are STILL at risk, but because we aren't 'spoon fed' the information, we are in danger of becoming complacent!
Who decides what the public should be told eh?
And how complacent are we as a nation? It's very few and far between that you come across someone who actually makes the effort to find out the truth behind the headlines.
But should a Flu epidemic actually hit the U.K; we are told we have 'systems' in place. But are you aware, that because of the cost, we only have enough vaccinations for approximately a third of the population!
But they don't tell you that, do they?
Get Rid Of Cold Callers On The Telephone.....
I have discovered a polite and quick way to get rid of these people quickly without feeling rude, as I have worked in a Call Centre myself, and realise that the person on the other end is not calling me as a result of a personal vendetta.
How many times have you been asked 'Can you confirm your name, first line of your address etc'?
Well, all you need to say is 'Sorry, but I don't give that sort of information out over the phone.'
Try it, you'll be amazed at the results!
Incidentally, you should NEVER give your details out on the telephone!
Are you aware that there is more risk from doing this on the phone than there is in paying for things over the internet?
And in this current climate of identity theft, you should insist on postal communications.
At least then you can put it in the recycle bin and feel content that you are doing your 'bit' for the environment!
How many times have you been asked 'Can you confirm your name, first line of your address etc'?
Well, all you need to say is 'Sorry, but I don't give that sort of information out over the phone.'
Try it, you'll be amazed at the results!
Incidentally, you should NEVER give your details out on the telephone!
Are you aware that there is more risk from doing this on the phone than there is in paying for things over the internet?
And in this current climate of identity theft, you should insist on postal communications.
At least then you can put it in the recycle bin and feel content that you are doing your 'bit' for the environment!
EU approves cervical cancer jab
The European Union has approved the cervical cancer vaccine Gardasil, which could prevent nearly 3,000 cancers each year in the UK alone.
Now, I heard this on the news this evening and was amazed!
Not at the fantastic medical breakthrough that this represents, but at the furor that certain 'groups' have created, stating that this will lead to sexual promiscuity!
"WHAT?!?!?"
Now, I can understand their reasoning, but this is pretentious bulls**t!
The plan is to administer the vaccine from as early as 9 years old. The reason? 2 of the major causes of cervical cancer are contracted through sexual intercourse, so it stands to reason that the vaccine has to be administered prior to any sexual activity.
But, this doesn't encourage 'sexual promiscuity' does it? Just as teaching sex education amongst teenagers doesn't! But they don't scream about that do they?
Honestly, there are some individuals and organisations in this country that want us to immediately revert to Victorian values.
If you want to bemoan anything, how about the war crimes in Palestine and Israel?
In fact, why don't you all club together, buy the Isle Of Wight and p**s off over there and start your own commune!
If this vaccine can prevent just ONE death a year, it has my full support!
For goodness sake, GET YOURSELVES A HOBBY!
Now, I heard this on the news this evening and was amazed!
Not at the fantastic medical breakthrough that this represents, but at the furor that certain 'groups' have created, stating that this will lead to sexual promiscuity!
"WHAT?!?!?"
Now, I can understand their reasoning, but this is pretentious bulls**t!
The plan is to administer the vaccine from as early as 9 years old. The reason? 2 of the major causes of cervical cancer are contracted through sexual intercourse, so it stands to reason that the vaccine has to be administered prior to any sexual activity.
But, this doesn't encourage 'sexual promiscuity' does it? Just as teaching sex education amongst teenagers doesn't! But they don't scream about that do they?
Honestly, there are some individuals and organisations in this country that want us to immediately revert to Victorian values.
If you want to bemoan anything, how about the war crimes in Palestine and Israel?
In fact, why don't you all club together, buy the Isle Of Wight and p**s off over there and start your own commune!
If this vaccine can prevent just ONE death a year, it has my full support!
For goodness sake, GET YOURSELVES A HOBBY!
HELP! I keep getting CHUGGED!
There's a new sensation sweeping the nation, and it's called CHUGGING!
This is made up of a combination of Charity and Mugging and describes the increasing occurence of charities calling at your home, all smiles and solicitations asking for money!
Now I'm all for charities, but I take objection to being disturbed at home, normally between 7:00pm and 9:00pm by some 'chirpy' individual who looks like the drowned animals they are collecting for!
This is charity cold-calling, and as such should be discouraged! (In my humble opinion!)
Anyway, click the link for more on the 'chugging' phenomenon sweeping the nation.
This is made up of a combination of Charity and Mugging and describes the increasing occurence of charities calling at your home, all smiles and solicitations asking for money!
Now I'm all for charities, but I take objection to being disturbed at home, normally between 7:00pm and 9:00pm by some 'chirpy' individual who looks like the drowned animals they are collecting for!
This is charity cold-calling, and as such should be discouraged! (In my humble opinion!)
Anyway, click the link for more on the 'chugging' phenomenon sweeping the nation.
OK Go
Heres a cool band you might not have heard of.
"OK GO" check these two vids out: Here it goes again and Million Ways
Enjoy!
"OK GO" check these two vids out: Here it goes again and Million Ways
Enjoy!
Subhuman
I'm watching a film called 'Subhuman' on Zone Horror Channel.
Special effects are dire, film quality is terrible, but a fantastic script!
Full of social statements and profound dialogue.
For example 'The eye only sees what the mind can comprehend.'
In essence, it's a vampire story.
Worth a watch if you ever get chance, just ignore the bad quality filming and effects.
Special effects are dire, film quality is terrible, but a fantastic script!
Full of social statements and profound dialogue.
For example 'The eye only sees what the mind can comprehend.'
In essence, it's a vampire story.
Worth a watch if you ever get chance, just ignore the bad quality filming and effects.
Ed Gein
Watched 'Ed Gein' on Film 4 last night/morning.
This guy was a weirdo! And more disturbing is the fact that this is a true story!
Necrophilia, cannabilism and murder. Apparently, the director of 'Texas Chainsaw Massacre' and 'Psycho' based their stories on this guy.
Oh, and 'Texas Chainsaw Massacre' is NOT a true story!
Click the link for more gruesome info.
This guy was a weirdo! And more disturbing is the fact that this is a true story!
Necrophilia, cannabilism and murder. Apparently, the director of 'Texas Chainsaw Massacre' and 'Psycho' based their stories on this guy.
Oh, and 'Texas Chainsaw Massacre' is NOT a true story!
Click the link for more gruesome info.
Six Degrees Of Separation
Watched "Six Degrees Of Separation" on Film4 last night.
Thought provoking and nice theory.
Very dialogue heavy though. But it is a clever story.
Thought provoking and nice theory.
Very dialogue heavy though. But it is a clever story.
Dead Man's Shoes
Watched it on Film 4 the other night, which is now free in the UK on Sky and Freeview.
A film by Shane Meadows who is supposed to be an ‘up and coming’ English director.
Music and sound are good. Atmospheric. Don’t expect a Hollywood soundtrack! Basic but clear and balanced.
Good characters, strong and believable. A bit of the support acting was a bit 'wooden' but the lead character was well acted, disturbingly so! Wonder where HE grew up!?
Really good story. You wouldn’t want this guy as an enemy, no matter WHO you were!
Set in the North West of England. Definitely for adults only. If you are easily offended, do not watch this film.
On a personal note, it seems that the majority of films that you could class as mainstream, always seem to depict people from the North West in the same way. No wonder we have a stigma attached to us Northerners!
Easily identifiable locations, if you’re from the Pennine area, and depending on your social environment.
Some would describe it as ‘gritty’.
It’s a psychological thriller with an adult theme and adult language. Be warned!
Genuinely funny in places, but extremely dark and disturbing in others, for most anyway!
If you enjoyed “Sexy Beast”, “Se7en”, "Revolver" and the series “Cracker”, you’ll love this.
Just remember, don’t mess with someone’s family!
Only downside was the ending, but that’s just my opinion, didn't seem to fit in with the 'theme' of the film as a whole, a little 'too' commercial, if you get my drift.
The end tune should have been ‘The Verve’ – ‘The Drugs Don’t Work’
I enjoyed it, and will be keeping an eye out for any future films by this director.
A film by Shane Meadows who is supposed to be an ‘up and coming’ English director.
Music and sound are good. Atmospheric. Don’t expect a Hollywood soundtrack! Basic but clear and balanced.
Good characters, strong and believable. A bit of the support acting was a bit 'wooden' but the lead character was well acted, disturbingly so! Wonder where HE grew up!?
Really good story. You wouldn’t want this guy as an enemy, no matter WHO you were!
Set in the North West of England. Definitely for adults only. If you are easily offended, do not watch this film.
On a personal note, it seems that the majority of films that you could class as mainstream, always seem to depict people from the North West in the same way. No wonder we have a stigma attached to us Northerners!
Easily identifiable locations, if you’re from the Pennine area, and depending on your social environment.
Some would describe it as ‘gritty’.
It’s a psychological thriller with an adult theme and adult language. Be warned!
Genuinely funny in places, but extremely dark and disturbing in others, for most anyway!
If you enjoyed “Sexy Beast”, “Se7en”, "Revolver" and the series “Cracker”, you’ll love this.
Just remember, don’t mess with someone’s family!
Only downside was the ending, but that’s just my opinion, didn't seem to fit in with the 'theme' of the film as a whole, a little 'too' commercial, if you get my drift.
The end tune should have been ‘The Verve’ – ‘The Drugs Don’t Work’
I enjoyed it, and will be keeping an eye out for any future films by this director.
The Corruptor
Watched this on Film4 the other night......(Which is now free, by the way!)
Directed by James Foley : 1999.
Stars Mark Wahlberg, Chow Yun-Fat (ALWAYS makes me smile when I see his name.....conjurs images of a North Yorkshire Father giving his son dietary advice!)
Nick Chen (Yun-Fat) is one of New York City's most martial police officers and the first Chinese-born immigrant on the force.
Chen's job is to keep the peace in Chinatown from a turf war that has broken out between the Triads and the ruthless, and dangerous Fukienese Dragons.
Chen teams up with Danny Wallace (Wahlberg), who is terribly unaware of this situation. When the Tongs boldly attempt to bribe Wallace, Chen is forced to keep his faithfulness.
Quite a good film with a clever plot line and entertaining story.
However, don't expect a martial arts extravaganza!
Instead, a well written plot and average acting provide a decent enough distraction for a couple of hours.
Plenty of violence and bad language, but this sets the theme perfectly in a hard hitting way.
Watch this if there's nothing else on........
Directed by James Foley : 1999.
Stars Mark Wahlberg, Chow Yun-Fat (ALWAYS makes me smile when I see his name.....conjurs images of a North Yorkshire Father giving his son dietary advice!)
Nick Chen (Yun-Fat) is one of New York City's most martial police officers and the first Chinese-born immigrant on the force.
Chen's job is to keep the peace in Chinatown from a turf war that has broken out between the Triads and the ruthless, and dangerous Fukienese Dragons.
Chen teams up with Danny Wallace (Wahlberg), who is terribly unaware of this situation. When the Tongs boldly attempt to bribe Wallace, Chen is forced to keep his faithfulness.
Quite a good film with a clever plot line and entertaining story.
However, don't expect a martial arts extravaganza!
Instead, a well written plot and average acting provide a decent enough distraction for a couple of hours.
Plenty of violence and bad language, but this sets the theme perfectly in a hard hitting way.
Watch this if there's nothing else on........
The Hills Have Eyes
This is the 2005 remake of Wes Craven's original classic.
Directed by Alexandre Aja and produced by Wes Craven and Peter Locke.
After the major disappointment of Hostel, I must admit I was not holding out much hope for this, but I'm glad to say this is well worth watching.
A classic horror tale, remade and improved, in my opinion.
Contains the usual mix of horror, suspense and gore, but well produced.
The environment suits the story perfectly and the music and sound are suitably atmospheric.
Basically, a family on a cross country trip get stranded in the New Mexico desert around the area where the US did it's nuclear testing in the 50's. Then things take a turn for the worse, as you'd expect.
Don't expect anything new, in fact, it's as formulaic as they come. But decent effects, semi-plausible storyline and average acting provide an entertaining 103 minutes of mindless entertainment.
The start of the film let's you know in no uncertain terms what to expect, and unusually for a film like this, maintains this theme and pace throughout.
With genuinely disturbing scenes and excellent gore effects, if you are a fan of the horror genre, you will not be disappointed.
Highly recommended, if this sort of film 'rocks your boat'!
Directed by Alexandre Aja and produced by Wes Craven and Peter Locke.
After the major disappointment of Hostel, I must admit I was not holding out much hope for this, but I'm glad to say this is well worth watching.
A classic horror tale, remade and improved, in my opinion.
Contains the usual mix of horror, suspense and gore, but well produced.
The environment suits the story perfectly and the music and sound are suitably atmospheric.
Basically, a family on a cross country trip get stranded in the New Mexico desert around the area where the US did it's nuclear testing in the 50's. Then things take a turn for the worse, as you'd expect.
Don't expect anything new, in fact, it's as formulaic as they come. But decent effects, semi-plausible storyline and average acting provide an entertaining 103 minutes of mindless entertainment.
The start of the film let's you know in no uncertain terms what to expect, and unusually for a film like this, maintains this theme and pace throughout.
With genuinely disturbing scenes and excellent gore effects, if you are a fan of the horror genre, you will not be disappointed.
Highly recommended, if this sort of film 'rocks your boat'!
Rules Of Engagement
Starring Samuel L. Jackson and Tommy Lee Jones about a peacekeeping mission in Yemen that goes horribly wrong.
If you liked 'A Few Good Men', you will see certain similarities in this film.
The characters are strong, and each actor gets to give their typically strong characters force and feeling throughout the story.
An entertaining courtroom drama, I defy anyone to watch this and not want to shoot the prosecutor, played by Guy Pearce, between the eyes!
Released in 2000 and running approximately 2 hours, this is worth viewing, if not for the story itself, then for the explanation of 'Rules Of Engagement' and how people in power are generically corrupt.
Enjoy......
If you liked 'A Few Good Men', you will see certain similarities in this film.
The characters are strong, and each actor gets to give their typically strong characters force and feeling throughout the story.
An entertaining courtroom drama, I defy anyone to watch this and not want to shoot the prosecutor, played by Guy Pearce, between the eyes!
Released in 2000 and running approximately 2 hours, this is worth viewing, if not for the story itself, then for the explanation of 'Rules Of Engagement' and how people in power are generically corrupt.
Enjoy......
Hostel
What a pile of crap!
The this film is soft-core porn for the first 30 minutes, which may appeal to some?!?
As for the rest of it?
The special effects were lame, the story was abysmal and the acting was dire!
The sound is terrible, the locales were stereotypically East European and, well, it was all crap!
This has to be the worst film I've seen in years!
Trust me, this is in no way recognisable as a Tarantino movie!
He's listed as one of the 'Executive Producers' of this film, but the production values stink at every level!
He's sold out in my opinion, and seriously gone down in my estimation.....
Avoid this like a clap infested Dutch whore!
The this film is soft-core porn for the first 30 minutes, which may appeal to some?!?
As for the rest of it?
The special effects were lame, the story was abysmal and the acting was dire!
The sound is terrible, the locales were stereotypically East European and, well, it was all crap!
This has to be the worst film I've seen in years!
Trust me, this is in no way recognisable as a Tarantino movie!
He's listed as one of the 'Executive Producers' of this film, but the production values stink at every level!
He's sold out in my opinion, and seriously gone down in my estimation.....
Avoid this like a clap infested Dutch whore!
Silent Hill - The Movie
I've been a fan of Silent Hill ever since the original game, and it was impossible to pass up on purchasing this DVD from Tesco.
So I got my beer and munchies ready, turned out the lights and started the film.....
The film is based on the best selling survival horror game Silent Hill and is just under 2 hours long.
The film stars Radha Mitchell (Man On Fire) as a mother who's adopted daughter sleepwalks and keeps mentioning 'Silent Hill'. She decides to take her there in an effort to cure her. And then it all goes pear shaped!
What a fantastic film! The picture is crisp and the special effects match up perfectly!
This is definitely a disturbing film and the sound is awesome, following the same formula as was in the games.
If you like weird, supernatural horror/thriller movies, you'll love this film.
If you are a fan of the games, you will be amazed at how the director and special effects team have literally brought Silent Hill to life.
I defy anybody not to watch this film and be suitably impressed. Definitely a cult film.
For a taster, visit the official web site and be prepared.....
"Welcome to Silent Hill....they've been expecting you! But once you enter...there's no turning back!"
So I got my beer and munchies ready, turned out the lights and started the film.....
The film is based on the best selling survival horror game Silent Hill and is just under 2 hours long.
The film stars Radha Mitchell (Man On Fire) as a mother who's adopted daughter sleepwalks and keeps mentioning 'Silent Hill'. She decides to take her there in an effort to cure her. And then it all goes pear shaped!
What a fantastic film! The picture is crisp and the special effects match up perfectly!
This is definitely a disturbing film and the sound is awesome, following the same formula as was in the games.
If you like weird, supernatural horror/thriller movies, you'll love this film.
If you are a fan of the games, you will be amazed at how the director and special effects team have literally brought Silent Hill to life.
I defy anybody not to watch this film and be suitably impressed. Definitely a cult film.
For a taster, visit the official web site and be prepared.....
"Welcome to Silent Hill....they've been expecting you! But once you enter...there's no turning back!"
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
It's Been A While
It's been a while since I posted on here, so I thought I'd start with some light entertainment to reward your patience!
I dunno if you have heard of these two, but I can't stop listening to them!
"Straight Life" by Black Box Recorder and "Underwear Goes Inside The Pants" are fantastic, as well as most of their other stuff.
Put it this way, I've just been on www.play.com and ordered the back catalogue of both of 'em! Plenty of irony and social statements abound, mostly set to a hip-hop beat.
Highly recommended.......
(But remember, musical taste is one of the few remaining ways we can maintain our individuality!)
Here are some videos of some of their songs, for your entertainment....
The Manual : Lazyboy
Underwear Goes Inside The Pants : Lazyboy
Inhale Positivity : Lazyboy
England Made Me : Black Box Recorder
The Art Of Driving : Black Box Recorder
I dunno if you have heard of these two, but I can't stop listening to them!
"Straight Life" by Black Box Recorder and "Underwear Goes Inside The Pants" are fantastic, as well as most of their other stuff.
Put it this way, I've just been on www.play.com and ordered the back catalogue of both of 'em! Plenty of irony and social statements abound, mostly set to a hip-hop beat.
Highly recommended.......
(But remember, musical taste is one of the few remaining ways we can maintain our individuality!)
Here are some videos of some of their songs, for your entertainment....
The Manual : Lazyboy
Underwear Goes Inside The Pants : Lazyboy
Inhale Positivity : Lazyboy
England Made Me : Black Box Recorder
The Art Of Driving : Black Box Recorder
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