Oliver Battershall

Sleepwalkers (1992) 3/5
Stephen King’s first screenplay to not be based on one of his novels. Benefits from its schlocky absurdity, fun characters and slight Twin Peaks vibe (not least from Mädchen Amick’s presence and solid performance).

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012) 4/5
For a coming of age story that Tumblr went feral for back in the day, I was pleasantly surprised that this wasn’t too saccharine or quirky. Well casted and edited with an interesting story to tell. However, it’s a central plot point that this group of middle-class students who love 70s and 80s music, even down to obscure groups like The Shaggs, somehow can’t identify David Bowie’s Heroes. Zero stars.

Closely Watched Trains (1966) 4/5
Another step on my quest to be a fully fledged Czech Cinema Guy. This deals head-on with a lot of typical Czech New Wave themes such as youthfulness, sexual liberation, political rebellion and quirky humour. The cinematography is well thought out and stylish, and the mischievous tone that lingers throughout is very infectious.

History of the World: Part I (1981) 3/5
The Ancient Rome bit was pretty good, the French Revolution bit was pretty bad, and the Spanish Inquisition bit was fantastic but that only lasted about five minutes. Mel Brooks really tries to do Monty Python here and sometimes it works but there were some long stretches without a laugh.

The Mysterians (1957) 3/5
You have to respect when a movie knows the basics of what its audience wants and supplies it. In this case it’s garishly garbed alien invaders, frantic government meetings and lots and lots of explosions, lasers, et al. Sadly the reusing of shots made the latter of these less enjoyable but the special effects, set design and gleeful adherence to cliche made this a fairly fun watch.

There’s Something About Mary (1998) 3.5/5
Ben Stiller’s lovable schmuck gimmick helps revitalise what would be standard late 90s male gaze comedy fare into something that feels more memorable and heartfelt. Maybe that makes this a bit manipulative but what can you do. I ended up with the extended cut, I didn’t feel the runtime as much as I thought I would.

Willow (1988) 3/5
George Lucas’ fingerprints are all over this epic fantasy tale of good and evil, even down to the constant wipe transitions and Wilhelm screams. I can’t help but like any kids film where the meek protagonist learns to be courageous and defeat evil. It may be naff but I can imagine liking this when I was young. Val Kilmer and Warwick Davis are great and have fun chemistry.