Les Miserables

Les Miserables is a well known novel by Victor Hugo. It has been adapted into theatrical performances for many years now and has, this year, been turned into a film.

Sam managed to pick up some free tickets to a preview showing of the film this evening, so we decided to go and see it. I must say, I was impressed. I will admit that I was not looking forward to it. Having seen the theatrical performance (which is stunning, by the way) I couldn't see how they would successfully convert it into a film, a decent one anyway. However, as it was free, I though I might as well give it a go - after much persuasion from the Sam.

I'm not going to spoil it. If you have read the book or seen it at the theatre then there isn't really anything to spoil but for the benefit of those who are new to Les Mis I won't mention any part of the story.

Iconic image used to promote theatrical performances of Les Miserables

I was pleasantly surprised by the film to be quite honest. With strong performances from Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe, you won't be disappointed if you do decide to go and see it. I must warn you, especially if you haven't seen Les Mis in the theatre, it is a very long film - around 2 and a half hours. It's worth mentioning that this will probably turn to about 3 hours ish with adverts and trailers (something that a preview doesn't have, fortunately).

Also, with it being a sung-story musical, there is non stop songs from start to finish. If this isn't your thing, don't bother.

Film poster

I would definitely recommend giving it a watch. It's an inspiring story and one you are not likely to forget. It also has an unforgettable music track list with favourites such as "I dreamed a dream" and "Look down".

If you haven't read the book, and would like to know the background story before watching the film, then you should be able to pick up a second hand copy relatively cheap. It's a French book so you'll need the English translation, unless you can read French of course. You can actually pick up the Kindle edition of the English translated version for £0.00 - yes, it's completely free at the moment. (Please note that this price is correct as of 23:54GMT on 08/01/13).

The film is released in UK cinemas on 11th January, 2013. It's a very popular tale so expect queues and packed screens on release day.

Pi Life

Okay, so today I went to see The Life of Pi. It's due out on 20th December but I managed to secure some free tickets from showfilmfirst.com. To be perfectly honest I wasn't expecting much. I haven't read the book, nor am I in anyway a religious man but it was free so why not?

The film itself is visually stunning. I am not usually a fan on 3D films. To me, they are a complete waste of money and make your eyes go funny. Unfortunately for me this film was in 3D - luckily the glasses were free! In reality, I am really glad it was in 3D. The tricks it plays on you, the picture coming right out of the screen at you, it was all made extremely well. The 3D effects really make some of the crucial scenes so if it comes out with a choice I would highly recommend choosing the 3D version. You won't regret it.

I'm not one for spoilers so I won't go into too much detail, but basically it's about an Indian boy who becomes stranded at sea with a Bengal tiger and has to discover how to survive. Over the course of the film, you will see Pi struggle with his faith and how he must push himself to the absolute limit in order to continue fighting. It's a brilliant piece of cinema.

What I find most refreshing is Ang Lee (director) chose a completely unknown actor to play the lead role.  Suraj Sharma plays the part of Pi with outstanding professionalism and really shows that he deserves to be there. I genuinely hope he makes the big screen in future. This is exactly what I love, directors noticing young, fresh talent and showing it to the world.

Overall, The Life of Pi is an amazing display and something that should be watched. You can view the trailer for the film below. Feel free to discuss the film or the book below (please keep any conversations clean or comments will be removed).